Family Buzz Autumn 2013

to advertise with us call Debby on 01424 429139 1

FREE!AUTUMN 2013

The family-friendly guide to what's on & where to go in East Sussex!

www.familybuzz.co.uk

whiterocktheatre.org.ukTicket Office: 01424 462 288

Sun 20 October 1pm & 3.30pm

Hastings White Rock Theatre

Book Now !

See the Hero Next Door and his friends LIVE on stage!

Hello and welcome to the Autumn edition of the Family Buzz, we hope you've all had a fantastic summer, enjoying some of that rare English

summer sunshine!So, September brings a new school year, all the excitement of new teachers and new class-mates. If you're looking to start a new hobby or activity, in this issue you'll find details of many places offering fantastic activities in the local area.We've also got details of all the places to go and things to do during the October half term. Plenty of Halloween fun on offer this year.If you're having a party this Halloween, check out our tips for making some spooky cupcakes on page 22. We hope you enjoy the magazine - Jason & Debby

CONTENTS

No part of this magazine, including advertisements, may be reproduced in part or in whole, without explicit permission from the editor. The opinions expressed within the magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers but those of the individual contributors. The greatest of care is taken to ensure that all information published in this magazine is correct at the time of going to print. Readers should be aware that the Publishers cannot be held responsible for errors, omissions or inaccuracies. Please check details of all events with the organisers before attending.

04. Event listings06. Reader competition08. Learning to read09. Child care12. Party planning14. Ask Alison16. Active kids22. Event listings

Contact us:Tel - 01424 429 139Sales - [email protected] & listings - [email protected]/FamilyBuzzMagazineTwitter - @FamilyBuzzMag

The Family Buzz would like to thank the Hastings Printing Company for the excellent service they have provided, enabling us to bring you a great magazine. www.hastings-print.co.uk

Open DaysChestnut Tree House

Friday 4 October andSaturday 5 October 201310am to 4pmCelebrate our 10th birthday, come along and see what your support for Chestnut Tree House has achieved.

01903 871820fundraising@chestnut-tree-house.org.ukwww.chestnut-tree-house.org.ukLike our Chestnut Tree House page@ChestnutSussex

Dover Lane, Near Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9PX

Registered charity no 256789

Refreshments

and parking

No need to book

Come along to Chestnut Tree House and help us celebrate our 10th birthday.Everyone at Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice would like to invite people across the county to come and see for themselves what a wonderful place it is and learn about the specialist care we provide for children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses.On Friday 4 and Saturday 5 October 2013, we will be throwing open our doors and everybody is welcome. There will be tours of the House, taking in the youngsters’ favourites like the hydrotherapy pool and multi-sensory room, plus a chance to meet the nurses and care workers who do such a wonderful job looking after the children and families.This year, the Open Days are extra special because we are celebrating our 10th birthday. When we first opened in November 2003, we were caring for just 30 children. Now, we expect to be caring for around 300 children in our 10th birthday year.During our first decade, we have seen a tremendous increase in demand for our care and have introduced our Oncology and Neonatal services. We have also expanded our Community Team and now have nurses providing care in the families’ own homes across East and West Sussex and South East Hampshire.However, for every child currently being cared for, there is another child somewhere in our locality that we are not yet reaching due to lack of funding. Families are never charged for their care but this specialist service costs almost £3 million each year and the hospice receives hardly any government funding.Without the support of the people of Sussex, Chestnut Tree House would not be able to keep its doors open so the Open Days are a fantastic opportunity for us to show you what your generosity has achieved and to say thank you.There’s no need to book and parking and refreshments are available on both days. Just come along between 10am and 4pm, see for yourself what a special place Chestnut Tree House is and find out how you can help your local children’s hospice. Chestnut Tree House, Dover Lane, Near Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9PX. Tel 01903 871820 www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk

get buzzing online at www.familybuzz.co.uk4

Are you thinking about going back to work? Need a CV? Do you need advice on training or

benefits?

We offer FREE one to one advice and support for parents living in Hastings and Rother

Call an Adviser for more information on:

07741 271984 or 01424 718491

PositiveProgress for

Parents

Free assistance for unemployed ParentsHastings Positive Progress for Parents is a new project from Tomorrow’s People, funded by the National Lottery through the Big Lottery Fund. Our aim is to support unemployed parents in the Hastings and Rother areas by advising them on where and how to start looking for training and employment.

This is a tailor-made, individual service based on each person’s requirements and we are able to travel to various locations to make accessing the service easier. For more information or an appointment with an Adviser to discuss your needs please call 01424 718491 or 07741271984 and ask for Laura or Nick.

Save Money... Make Money! Which interests you?

Earn an extra monthly income by helping other people save money.No experience necessary - free training and support.

A major British PLC is offering motivated people the opportunity of a lifetime. You will need a positive attitude and a desire to build a better

lifestyle and future for you and your family.Call now and ask for your free information pack:

Rosario Lee: 01424 443087 or 0794 709 2918

FULL TIME, PART TIME - IT'S THE RIGHT TIME!!

Back to School! Back to Work!

www.utilitywarehouse.org.uk/L31904/opportunity

Battle of Hastings Skate CompetitionHastings Skate Park, Falaise Rd, Hastings. 7th Sept 10.30am-5pmThe UKs best skaters head to Hastings to compete on a newly extended skatepark.

Shinewater Fun DayShinewater Park, Eastbourne7th Sept from 11am.A fun filled day at Shinewater with family activities and fete.

Bexhill Sea Angling Festival Bexhill Seafront. 7th to 15th Sept2 days of fishing competitions and food & games for all the family on the festival lawns. For full details, visit:bexhillseaanglingfestival.co.uk

Tales for ToddlersDe La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill. 9th Sept 10.30am & 11.30amFun filled, free sessions of stories, rhymes and creative activities aimed at pre-school children.dlwp.com

Medieval WeekendMichelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham14th & 15th Sept 10.30am-5pmLiving history displays, archery competition, medieval traders, storytelling, falconry, barbecue and beer tent. www.sussexpast.co.uk

Dragon Boat FestivalBewl Water, Lamberhurst, Kent14th -15th Sept.85 teams competing in 8 dragon boats, the largest event of its type in Europe.bewlwater.co.uk

Harvest FestivalRare Breeds Centre, Highlands Farm, Woodchurch, Kent14th & 15th SeptemberBest Dressed Scarecrow competition, learn where food comes from, make your own work of art to take home. For more info, visit:rarebreeds.org.uk

Animal Rescue WeekendParadise Park, Newhaven.15th September.Local charities demonstrate the work

they do for abandoned and neglected animals. paradisepark.co.uk

Christmas Panto AuditionsBattle Memorial Hall, Battle.17th September, 7pm.Ages 8 and above.Tel [email protected]

Medieval MerrimentsBodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge21-22 Sept 11am-4pmFind out what people did for entertainment before the invention of video games and TV. Normal admission applies.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

Day out with Thomas28-29 SeptKent & East Sussex Railway, Station Rd, Tenterden.Come and meet everyone’s favourite steam engine as well as a fun packed programme of events.kesr.org.uk

Event Listings

bizzybirdsnetwork group for women



Bizzybirds is a networking club for businesswomen, holding relaxed and informal meetings in Hastings.

18th September & 23rd October, 10am to 11.30amWhite Rock Theatre, Hastings.

Book your FREE place now:

Debby - 07773 884878 Lucy - 07549 807426

www.bizzybirds.co.uk

TALK ISCHEEP


Tickets are available from the Eastbourne Theatres booking office on 01323 412000 or online at www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Media PartnersSupported by

THE SUSSEX FAMILY, PARENT & CHILD EXHIBITION 2013

Contact Faiza on:

01323 414493 [email protected]

EXHIBITION SPACEAVAILABLE!

Main Sponsor

Sat 2nd & Sun 3rdNOVEMBER 2013

Winter Garden Eastbourne East Sussex BN21 4BP

NEW DATE!


Eastbourne Bonfire Society Procession & Fireworks5th Oct, 7.30-9pmEastbourne SeafrontTorch lit procession from Fishermans Green featuring drummers, pipers, dancers and local bonfire societies.

Hastings Week12th to 20th OctoberThroughout Hastings.Commemorating the anniversary of the Battle of Hastings. Classic car shows, Town Crier championship and much more, for full details, visit:1066.net/hastings-week

Prepare for Conquest12th & 13th OctoberBattle Abbey, BattleStep inside a Norman army camp and meet the characters preparing for invasion. english-heritage.org.uk

Hastings Bonfire Celebrations19th October 7- 9pmHastings Seafront. Spectacular, torch lit procession starts

from the Stade leading to the lighting of the bonfire and a spectacular firework display on the beach.

Spooky Half Term Fun19th Oct to 3rd Nov.Penshurst Place, Penshurst, Tonbridge.Delve into the legends of Halloween with medieval workshops and activities. Explore Penshurst and discover the gargoyles that lurk in the grounds.penshurstplace.com

Sid’s ShowDevonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne. 20th Oct 2pmJoin Sid from Cbeebies live on stage for a fun filled show perfect for kids aged 3 to 7. eastbournetheatres.co.uk

Fireman Sam Live20th October, 1pm & 5pm.White Rock Theatre, Hastings.Meet the Hero next door in this thrilling new show.whiterocktheatre.org.uk

Halloween Party in the Woods26th October, 5.30pm.BBQ site via the Langham Rd entrance, St Helens Woods, Hastings.Fancy dress competition, games, face paints and family fun. Refreshments available, Free entrance.

World Crazy Golf Championships26th & 27th OctoberCrazy Golf Course, Hastings Seafront.The top crazy golf players in the world come to Hastings for the 4th year running.

Crime & Punishment and Medieval SurgeryBodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge26-27 Oct 11am-3pmA gruesome weekend with gory talks and demonstrations on medieval surgery. Normal admission applies.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

Event Listings

What the Ladybird Heard competition!De La Warr Pavilion has got an amazing opportunity for all children who love theatre. Draw, paint, design or create a ladybird. You can be as creative as you want!The three lucky winners will win a family ticket to the show, will meet the cast and get some amazing Ladybird goodie bags!All entries will be displayed in the auditorium foyer during the show.Please send or bring your entries to De La Warr Pavilion by 10th October 2013. Please address them to:Dominika HicksDe La Warr PavilionMarinaBexhill on SeaTN40 1TWThe three lucky winners will be contacted on Tuesday 15th Oct. *terms and conditions apply

25 October10.30am & 4.30pm26 October11am & 2pm

£12Family of four £40

BOOKING & INFORMATION01424 229 111dlwp.com


www.petwastesolutions.co.uk

A friendly pet waste cleaning and removal service.Tired of picking up your dog's poop?Embarrassed about the mess of your garden?Don't get stressed........we pick up the messHave a safe and clean garden you and your family deserves.We also do a cat litter exchange, please contact us for more info!Have the freedom from a pet owners worst choreWe also provide dog waste stations to cover any event.

Don't get stressed... we pick up the mess

Tel: 07907 136300Email: [email protected]

I believe it is a parent’s duty to ensure their children can read well.Of course, schools are responsible for teaching our children how to read and they have minimum expectations that all children should meet but, and this is a big BUT; a teacher can only do so much with the limited resources and time they have available to them. For the teaching your child receives in school to be effective, you need to continue to practise and support your child’s learning at home. If you take a look at the children who are doing best in school, you will notice the one thing they all have in common is highly supportive and involved parents – I don’t mean those who pay a fortune for expensive tutors, I mean those who take an interest and take the time to find out what their children are learning and spend time helping and encouraging their children to excel.

But how can YOU be more effective at helping your child to learn than an experienced and qualified tutor?For the simple reason that, whether you like it or not, YOU are your child’s strongest influence; what you do, what you say and how you act is what dictates their attitude to learning and inevitably, their future success.A teacher friend of mine told me, she could always predict the children who would do best at school from reception – they were the ones with the most support from their parents.Supporting your child’s early literacy; from learning their first letters to reading chapter books and beyond is one of the most important areas in which your support and influence can contribute the most. With the prevalence of smart-phones and the internet, being able to access, read

and understand the mass of information we have to deal with in our everyday lives is one of the most useful skills we can have today.But how can you support your child when you don’t know how literacy (or maths etc…) is taught in schools today - surely you will teach it the wrong way and confuse your child? Well, yes, that can be a problem but, like all problems, there are simple solutions! Many schools offer free parent classes to update you on current teaching methods, if yours doesn’t, perhaps you could ask your school if they could? There are websites with information and of course there are books too.Even if you are short on time (and who isn’t?), a few minutes each day helping your child and showing interest in what they are doing is enough to demonstrate how you highly value what they are doing and will, in turn, influence them to value their own work too.It doesn’t take a lot to make a big difference; a good teacher and highly supportive parents are the ultimate ingredients to your child achieving their potential. I truly believe that if we bring children into the world, we have a duty to ensure they are brought up in a loving and nurturing environment and that it is our responsibility as parents to provide a good education and to support our children in their learning. Literacy is one of the most essential skills needed for a successful life and of course, every parent wants to ensure the success of their children.


Book your child’s space NOW

Artemis Nursery, Calvert Road, tel: 01424 426178Artemis Nursery, Chapel Park Road, tel: 01424 461188

web: www.artemisnursery.co.uk email: [email protected]

Artemis Nursery is open from 8am to 6pm offering both full and half day sessions for children from 3 months to 5 years. Situated in St Leonards and Hastings, both nurseries are conveniently located

for Warrior Square and Hastings railway stations and hold secure buggy parks to the front of the premises for those parents who prefer to walk their children to nursery. Our nurseries have both received the coveted accolade of

‘OUTSTANDING’ by Ofsted. Inspectors reported that at Artemis, ‘Children flourish in the inspiring and inclusive nursery environment. (Hastings, Ofsted 2011)

Call us now to discuss your child’s FREE nursery space*

Artemis Nursery29 Chapel Park Road,St Leonards On Sea,East Sussex, TN37 6HRTel: 01424 461188Web: www.artemisnursery.co.ukEmail: [email protected]

Artemis Nursery17 Calvert Road, Hastings, East Sussex, TN34 3NG Tel: 01424 426178

SPACES NOW AVAILABLE

*Applies to children whose 3rd birthday is before 31st August

11 Holmesdale GardensHastings, TN34 1LY

Bear's House Nursery offers flexible sessions for your child's funded pre-school place, call us

NOW for more details:Tel: 01424 465856 or

www.bearshousenursery.co.ukCaring for Children aged

3 months to 8 years!Our opening hours are:

Monday to Friday 7.30am-6pmOpen 51 weeks a year

01424 210 225

Monday - Friday 9.30am - 3.00pm Saturday 10.00am - 4.00pm

New & nearly new baby goodsPrams, Cots & High Chairs

Reconditioned to a high standard at competitive prices!

6 Buckhurst Place, Bexhill-on-sea, TN39 3PA

At Peasmarsh Flying Start Pre-‐School we are dedicated to creating a warm, safe and secure environment where children feel at ease to learn through their own play and interests. Children are

encouraged and supported to meet all areas of development through using the expertise of our highly qualified staff to support each child’s learning on an individual basis.

We work within the Early Years Foundation Stage which enables us to offer diverse opportunities for

learning and having fun, both inside and in our superb, safe and secure outside area.

We welcome parent’s visits and look forward to meeting you.

Pre-School Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday

Term-Time only

8.45am to 3.30pm

At Peasmarsh Flying Start Pre-School we are dedicated to creating a warm, safe and secure environment where children feel at ease to learn through their own play and interests. Children are encouraged and supported to meet all areas of development through using the expertise of our highly qualified staff to support each child’s learning on an individual basis.We work within the Early Years Foundation Stage which enables us to offer diverse opportunities for learning and having fun, both inside and in our superb, safe and secure outside area. Our opening times are 8.30am to 3.30pm from Monday to Friday, term time only.We welcome parent’s visits and look forward to meeting you.

At Peasmarsh Flying Start Pre-‐School we are dedicated to creating a warm, safe and secure environment where children feel at ease to learn through their own play and interests. Children are

encouraged and supported to meet all areas of development through using the expertise of our highly qualified staff to support each child’s learning on an individual basis.

We work within the Early Years Foundation Stage which enables us to offer diverse opportunities for

learning and having fun, both inside and in our superb, safe and secure outside area.

We welcome parent’s visits and look forward to meeting you.

Pre-School Opening Hours:

Monday to Friday

Term-Time only

8.45am to 3.30pm


Elim Family Centre1A Hartfield RdEastbourne BN21 2ET

A place for your child to grow!Tel: 01323 731843

email: [email protected]

St Peter & St Pauls Playgroup meets in the Church Room of St Peter and St Pauls Church, Parkstone Road. The staff are all fully trained and very experienced. There is a large, safe outside area with a good selection of equipment.

The staff provide an exciting and varied curriculum including outings to the Library and Blue Reef Aquarium. Our Ofsted report said that the children respond very well to the warm, caring and very good humoured interaction of Staff.

Children are accepted from 2½ and are entitled to 15 hours per week from 3+. Parents are always welcome to visit.

Church of St Peter & St PaulParkstone Road

HastingsTN34 2NT

Established 42 yearsOpen Monday & Thursday 9am to 3pm

Wednesday, Tuesday & Friday 9am to 12pm

Tel. 01424 751841/755336

Blacklands Playgroup – Our aim here at Blacklands Playgroup is to provide a secure and caring, safe and happy environment in which your child will learn and develop through play and a stimulating environment. Praise and encouragement are very important in helping children to succeed; we take children from the age of 2 to 5.

We are Ofsted Registered, accept government funding and also take part in the Co-operative Employee Benefits Childcare Voucher Scheme. We understand that parents need flexibility when it comes to childcare and hours. We offer very flexible dates and times.

We welcome parent’s visits and look forward to meeting you here at Blacklands. Please call Sharon Reeve (owner) to book an appointment: 07939 635799

Blacklands Playgroup

Elim Church, Elphinstone Ave, Hastings, TN34 2DJ

Contact Sharon on : 07939 635799

Flexible dates and timesOfsted registered

Government FundingChildcare Vouchers accepted

NEW Breakfast club 8.15 to 9.15 - £2.50

For Children 2-5 years of age

Mobile Softplay Hire andPre-school Movement Classes for under 5’s

We bring the FUNto your chosen VENUE! with colourful soft play shapes,

ballpool, tunnels, slide and more!ideal for 0-5 year olds.

See website for package options and more info.

HAPPYJACKSTUMBLERSpre-school movement classes for under 5’s. See website for more

information and to book a place.

call jaki on 07738 381384 or visit www.happyjackssoftplay.co.uk

ALSO Affordable, Pay as you Go Gymnastics for 5-14yrs.First class FREE! – see website for info.


Rainbow Playgroup is committed to providing a safe and secure, caring and happy environment for children. We aim to offer your child an atmosphere in which to grow, develop and thrive.We are Ofsted registered and open for children ages 2 to 5.We offer 15 hours of free government funding for every child who starts the term after their 3rd birthday, with flexible hours available to suit.We open 5 days a week 9am – 3pm for 39 weeks of the year, term time only.We have a safe fenced garden area with trampoline, sand pit and various play equipment.

Registered charity no: 1034010

07715 685984Open Mon, Tues, Wed, Thu & Fri 9am - 3pm

OFSTED RegisteredOre Centre, 455 Old London Road, Hastings, TN35 5BH

[email protected]

PlacesAvailable

RAINB0W PLAYGR0UP

Rye Pre-School Nursery provides a friendly and stimulating environment for children from 3 months to 2 years at Tilling Green Community Centre, Rye.

Children from 3 months to 4 years are cared for at our Ferry Road site. All staff are qualified, caring and experienced, which allows us to provide a high

quality of care to all children.

We accept childcare funding. We have a large outside area which all children have access to.

Please contact us on 01797 226992 or you can email us at [email protected] for more information.

Rye Pre-School NurseryTel No. (01797) 226992Registered charity no. 802873

Bigger • Brighter • BetterFull Day Care. Open 50 weeks, 8am - 6pm

Catering for children from 3 months to 4 yearsfor more information, contact Lisa Parker on :

01797 226992www.ryeplaygroup.org.uk

Claverham DayNursery

Battle

Full day care 8.15-5.453 months - 5 years

VACANCIES AVAILABLE01424 774548

[email protected]

Wiggly Woo is a children's clothing agency in Queens Road, Hastings, selling quality, pre-loved and nearly new designer

labels and clothes from quality high street retailers.

If have clothes that you think we may be able to sell on your behalf please bring them to the shop or contact us via facebook -wigglywoopopup or www.wiggly-woo.co.uk

If we are not able to sell your items within an agreed time frame you can have them back, either way you won't be out of pocket and we aim to make some cash for you!

We are constantly updating our range of new

toys and showcasing local talent

and their gorgeous handcrafted gift ideas.

We have a party venue downstairs

for children's parties and events - a place

where children can come, be creative and have fun.

Call Anne on 07967 757838 for more information


EASTBOURNE'S NEWEST SOFT PLAY CENTRE

3 and 4 commercial Road, Eastbourne BN21 3XE

T: 01323 411527All creche staff are CRB checked and First Aid trained.

Loyalty card available. Birthday Parties. Excellent facilities - best soft play in the area. Regular special

events and theme days.

See our facebook page to keep up to date with photographs and more details.

www.playstationeastbourne.comCALL OR VISIT THE WEBSITE TO FIND OUT

MORE ABOUT OUR PARTY PACKAGES

The soft play offers a range of exciting, fun, energetic and adventurous play for children aged 6 months to 14 years.

Let your children spend hours in our kaleidoscope of colours amongst super slides, special toddler area, tremendous tunnels and other challenging obstacles whilst you relax with a superior blend coffee and one of our homemade cakes in our fresh and comfortable coffee shop.

Come and join the fun!

...at Eastbourne's newest and

greatest play centre!

07814652403www.facebook.com/chocolateballoons

www.chocolateballoons.co.uk

Kids PartiesChocolate fountainsPopcorn & Candy Floss MachinesBalloons & Themed decorationsParty Bags.....

Chocolate Balloons

Devine Cupcake Parties

Call us on: 07946 458732 www.hungerbus-ter.co.ukfacebook.com/childrenscupcakeparties

Mobile Cupcake Parties !Messy fun for kids of all ages, our parties are available in your home or in a local party venue such as a village hall. Everything you need for a great party (Including

floor protectors) We have a wide range of party packages, please see our website for full details:

Email : [email protected]


Hold your children’s birthday party at the White Rock Theatre and your birthday boy or girl can become a singing sensation, star performer or dazzling dancer! Put your child and their guests in the spotlight on their special day. Great entertainment and fantastic fun. The most theatrical party ever!Choose from: Popstar, Cheerleading, Princess and Pirate. Our parties are suitable for ages 4-12 and a maximum of 25 children per party and a minimum of 10.

For further details and prices please callp p

01424 462291whiterocktheatre.org.uk

Kids' Birthday

Parties

HASTINGS

THEATREWHITE ROCK

We also prepare children for entrance exams,

11+, SATs, GCSEs and A-Levels.

We teach children from 5-18 years English, Maths

and Science.*Terms and conditions apply

Call Teresa on 01323 700777 or [email protected]

www.genietutors.co.uk/centres/genie-tutors-eastbourne/

Confused byyour Maths orScience homework?Our qualified specialist tutorsguarantee to help*

• Maths principles grasped

• Science concepts unravelled

• Your child's progress guaranteed*

• Regular feedback given and assessments provided

• Confidence your child gets the help they need

Let our specialist tutors remove the mystery!

Fight the Summer Slide with Genie TutorsRecent research confirms that a child’s learning falls back during the six week summer holiday when their academic skills can regress by three to four months. They don’t just stop and pick up where they left off at the end of term. They go backwards.

Statistics show that pupils who fail to reach the level expected of their age group at primary level rarely reach the competence needed to pass their GCSE. If you are on the mathematical scrap heap at the age of 11, you stay there.

Is your child not achieving the grades that you know they are capable and deserving of? Genie Tutors offers the highest standards of tutoring and with the support of our qualified teachers, we promise excellent academic progress.

So why not come down to the new Genie Tutors centre in Eastbourne? Here at Genie Tutors, with our money back guarantee, you can be assured that your child will walk away with improved confidence and focus in their learning along with an improvement in their academic abilities.

1414

Alison Waterhouse has worked with children with Additional Educational Needs for the past 22 years in both mainstream and the private sector. Initially, she trained as a Special Needs Teacher and has worked in a variety of schools and educational settings. Alison now works as an Independent Educational Consultant for Special Educational Needs and Emotional Well being in both the Independent sector and mainstream. She is involved in staff training for Young Minds and Releasing Potential and she has an Educational Psychotherapy practice. For more information, please visit www.alisonwaterhouse.co.uk.In her regular “question and answer” page she’ll be using her experience to help readers & their children with educational concerns or problems. If there’s something you’d like to ask Alison, email your question to : [email protected]

Ask Alison...

Dear Alison,We have a son at secondary school in Year 8 who is really struggling with all aspects of school. He has always found school difficult and has always been in the bottom groups for Literacy and Maths. He struggles with following instructions at home and constantly forgets what he is doing. He never seems to remember his school books or equipment and is constantly in trouble at school due to forgetting things. When I work with him at home he often loses his place in what he is doing, he misses important steps in activities or does them twice. He has a really poor attention span and is really easily distracted. School reports always say that he doesn’t focus or concentrate. Please can you help as we are desperate to help him as he is becoming so fed up and it is causing him to believe he is stupid and he stops trying.Thank you for your letter. From what you have said I would suspect that your son has a special learning need that both he and you need help with understanding and then supporting. I would strongly suggest that you make an appointment and talk to your schools SENCo. The Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator within school is the schools expert on learning. They have access to a range of professionals that they can call upon to help them identify and assess a range of special needs. They can ask the Educational Psychologist to meet up with your son and then undertake an assessment. They will then write a report and then share this with both yourself and your son. The report will then help all those people who work with your son to support his learning within school.Dear Alison,Thank you so much for your advice and support. We did what you suggested and spoke to our son’s SENCo in school. She was lovely, she listened to our concerns and then gathered information from his teachers and organised for the Educational Psychologist to work with our son. There was a bit of a wait as they only have access to a certain amount of days with her each year. However he was seen last term and they found that he has a difficulty with his working memory. The Educational Psychologist’s report detailed a range of strategies school could use to help him and ones that we could use at home. I can not tell you just how much difference it has made to our son who now understands that he is not stupid. He understands that his brain needs

him to do things in a certain way and then he can manage. He will never be in the top sets however he is much happier and that was all we ever wanted. Thank you. A poor working memory is a difficulty that is shared by approximately 10% of children. It is characterised by slow progress in most areas of classroom learning. Working Memory is the term used to describe a memory system that is used as a kind of ‘mental jotting pad’ which stores information necessary for everyday living. This includes remembering telephone numbers, what you went upstairs for, where you live and where the shops are, following directions and instructions. Working memory consists of several interacting subsystems that include specialised stores for verbal and visual-spacial material. Information in working memory can be easily lost through distraction or overload. Children with difficulties with working memory often find the demands of the classroom really hard to manage, which then impacts on their learning and eventually their self esteem.Developing a range of memory aids, reducing memory loads, repeating information and instructions or having a checklist and developing a range of strategies to deal with specific difficulties with the child are all important ways of supporting a poor working memory. Identify the best person you know at remembering information and explore the strategies they use. Start collecting new and creative ways of remembering!Dear Alison,Our son has just been diagnosed as having ADHD. My husband is finding this very difficult as he has always thought that this is not a true medical need but is due to bad parenting. I don’t know what to do or how to manage this for our son and my husband.I have chosen your letter as I have many emails from parents wanting to know more about ADHD and how to manage this. It is a medical condition and is not caused by bad parenting, too much sugar or a bad diet. Sadly some of the behaviour that children with ADHD display is similar to that which might be found in families where parenting is an issue, sadly this has caused the misunderstanding that you have talked about with your husband.The exact cause of ADHD is unknown

though studies have shown that it may be due to some form of chemical imbalance in certain areas of the brain. ADHD commonly overlaps with other conditions including oppositional defiance disorder (ODD) anxiety disorder, conduct disorders and can be associated with ASD, dyspraxia, attachment disorders and other neurodevelopment disorders.ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a complex condition where inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity are all symptoms. These symptoms occur in all places and are not just found in the home or within school. Having ADHD seriously affects a child’s ability to settle and concentrate and therefore has huge implications for learning within school and managing the school learning environment successfully. It is the most common medical condition underlying behavioural difficulties and educational underachievement in children. It affects approximately 5% of school aged children. This means that out of a class of 30 children one or more will have the condition.Recognising the symptoms in very young children can be difficult. It is important to make the distinction between normal active toddlers and those with genuine ADHD symptoms. When a child is diagnosed with ADHD it is really important that all people working with that child work together. Families need help and support in understanding the condition and ways of helping their child manage this in a positive way. Children need help understanding their condition and to develop a range of strategies to support them to manage it successfully. Schools also need to be made aware of the diagnosis so that they can ensure that the child has support recognising difficulties and developing a range of acceptable strategies to manage their needs within the learning environment that do not interfere with the learning of other children. Within East Sussex there is an ADHD team who work with children, parents and schools. They are great and the majority of families I have dealt with have been really pleased with their support. They offer parenting groups and support groups as well as practice help and support for families. They can be accessed through the school SENCo or School nurse or by a GP referral.

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Kumon’s maths and English study programmeswork to build your child’sconfidence and inspire a passion for learning.

[email protected]@kumoncentre.co.uk

Eastbourne Study Centre &Hastings Study CentreDale Kusano-Puffett01424 754633 / 07903 274140

Contact your Local Instructorfor a Free Assessment :

Educational Psychotherapist Qualified Teacher

and S.E.N.C.O

Educational Psychotherapy is a specialised educational and therapeutic intervention

recommended for children and young people with complex emotional barriers to learning

and social development.

Phone: 01580 881 271 E-mail: [email protected]

www.alisonwaterhouse.co.uk

Is your child struggling at school? Are they ‘stuck’ in their learning?

Behaviour causing concern?

If you have been unsuccessful with your child’s application to the school of your choice then contact SCHOOL APPEALS for all you need to know about winning your appeal.

www.schoolappeals.org.ukE-mail: [email protected]: 01903 718741Please quote ref: FSE/2012 in all communications

What is Educational Psychotherapy?For parents whose children are struggling at school, stuck in their learning, anxious or depressed, who have stopped thriving or are acting out, life can become overwhelming, full of worry and confusion as they try to find help for their children. Educational Psychotherapy is a powerful approach to addressing these issues. It is a way of meeting the child’s individual learning needs, which in turn positively affects their ability to cope within the classroom.

Educational Psychotherapy is a way of working with children which combines teaching with therapeutic exploration of the emotional factors triggered by learning. It is recommended for children and young people who have become ‘stuck’ due to complex emotional barriers to learning and development.

Barriers to learning and development may manifest themselves as:• Poor attitudes to learning based on attachment

patterns, • Failure to learn, • Withdrawal, • Difficult behaviour, • Difficulty with social interactions and friendships, • Violence or aggressive outbursts, • Physical symptoms, • Anxiety, • Difficulties with transitions,• Restlessness and an inability to focus,• An inability to make good use of the learning

environment or the teacher.

Educational Psychotherapy produces real benefits in children’s emotional well being and their capacity to learn and engage with schools. By helping children and young people overcome these emotional barriers to learning, their self esteem, resilience and skills for learning are strengthened and engagement, positive relationships and sense of well being are promoted.

For more information, contact Alison on:01580 881 271 or [email protected]

YOUR SCHOOL YOUR CHOICESCHOOL APPEALS

WHAT CAN I DO TO ENSURE THAT MY SCHOOL APPLICATION IS SUCCESSFUL?

The most important thing is to ensure that your application is submitted on time; secondary school applications must be submitted by 31 October 2012 and primary school applications by 15 January 2013.

Go and have a look at the schools concerned and discuss any questions with the staff. There are no guarantees but check to see what happened with applications last year to see if you would have secured a place then. Be realistic with your preferences otherwise you may be wasting them.

Ensure that you submit all relevant information to the admission authority with the application and do not assume that you will secure a place at the school. If there are special reasons, medical or otherwise, include these on the application and provide supporting documents from professionals, for example social workers, consultants and GPs. If you do not provide the information the admission authority will not be able to take it into consideration. The obligation rests on you to provide the information.

If the application is unsuccessful, there is always the independent appeal process.

If you require any assistance contact School Appeals on 01903 718741 or [email protected] for a range of support services to suit different needs and budgets.


We're having a ball!Come and see what all the fun's aboutFootball and Rugby for children 18 months - 7 yearsClasses in: Eastbourne � Hailsham � Seaford � LewesFREE trial class availableNEW AREAS opening soon in East Sussex call Bev for details:01323 749640 or email: [email protected] www.littlerugby.co.uk

We're having a ball!Little Kickers and Little Rugby are fun filled football and rugby programmes executed in a friendly, pressure free environment. We run football and rugby classes for girls and boys aged 18 months to 7 years all over the country and the world. Our classes, that are conducted by qualified FA coaches, teach the children invaluable life skills such as listening, sharing, taking turns and teamwork. Much emphasis is put on simple learning concepts such as colours and numbers and helping the children concentrate on basic balance, agility and coordination.

Little Kickers and Little Rugby recognise that every child is an individual and feel they develop best with children of their own age hence the classes are broken down into four age groups. If your child would like to have a go at a fun Little Kickers or Little Rugby class ring Bev on 01323 749640 for a free trial class. www.littlekickers.co.uk & www.littlerugby.co.uk

Active KidsOur regular section showcasing the wide range of activities on offer in the local area, all of which offer a great way to burn off some youthful energy!

GymnasticLessonsat the Sovereign Centre

For full details of courses available and prices, please visit:

www.eastbourneleisurecentres.comTel: 0845 267 1200Royal Parade, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN22 7LQ

JUST

£4.50PER LESSON

The perfect introduction togymnastics for 4 – 11 year olds, in a fun-filled environment.

tastic!gymit’s

ENROL

NOW!

741_Eastbourne Family Buzz gymnastics 135x90_Layout 1 17/08/2012 16:45 Page 1

Our programme of gymnastics offers activities for babies through to our Elite gymnasts. We start with daily drop-in play sessions through to structured classes with qualified coaches.

• Tumblegym (open play)

• Activities for under 5’s

• Structured classes for General & Elite gymnasts

• Birthday parties

Haywood WayHastingsTN35 4PL

01424 444615www.summerfields-gymnastics.com

[email protected]


SwimmingFlumes, waves, inflatable, family fun and lessons

Holiday activitiesSports, games, arts and crafts, swimming, soft play and bowling

CrecheBirthday partiesSports courses

Summerfields Leisure Centre, Helenswood Sports Centre, Falaise, Rye Sports Centre, Bexhill Leisure Centre Bexhill Pool.

visit www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/familyfun and see how freedomleisure can entertain the whole family.

Fun for the whole family

with freedomleisure


The Martial Arts Centre - Eastbourne, Bexhill and Hastings

The instructors at The Martial Arts Centre - Eastbourne, Bexhill and Hastings are highly trained and fully qualified having passed instructor courses and are officially recognised by the World Kuk Sool Association (WKSA). They are fully insured and CRB checked. On offer is instruction in the traditional Korean martial arts of Kuk Sool Won, as seen on ITV’s ‘Let’s Get Gold’. Our syllabus includes hand and foot strikes, blocking and sparring, joint locking, throwing, empty hand and weapons forms, pressure points, throwing, falling and much more… Our Instructors are dedicated to your progress and development and will ensure that you receive the very best that traditional martial arts training can offer. They continually strive to help students reach and maintain their own personal goals as well as our aims of Health, Fitness, Respect, Discipline, Confidence and Self-Defence.To book your Free Intro lesson today please call on:01323 416634 or 07540 179194Alternatively you can check out our websites at:www.martialartseastbourne.comwww.martialartsbexhill.comwww.martialartshastings.com

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HKA Relocates to a New Gym!Hastings Kickboxing Academy have recently moved into Unit 1, Brook Way, Ivy House Ind. Estate, working alongside Micks Body Sculpture. Come up and have a look at our new facilities, we have over 5,000 sq foot of purpose built gym space to cater for nearly every need. Hastings Kickboxing is now located at the back of Body Sculpture in a 1,400 sq ft BRAND NEW purpose built DoJo, designed with one thing In mind, Martial Arts. With a competition ring and over 20 workstations along with the whole gym area being matted. There is a great sound system with DJ booth, mirror, and military style zones, we have something for everyone here. We run over 15 classes each week catering from 3 years old ranging all the way through to 55 +. Visit our website or give us a ring to find out more about how our positive training can help improve your confidence and fitness.


The Hastings Stage StudioSchool for the Performing Arts

HAVE FUN

IMPROVECOORDINATION

KEEP FIT

BUILD CONFIDENCE

DEVELOP YOUR TALENTS

MAKE NEWFRIENDS

Experience the thrill of

in a safe, fun environment promoting teamwork, cooperation and artistic development

Ask about our Beginner Specials - 3 Disciplines/week for only £8.00

Expert and unrivalled tuition in Ballet, Tap, Street, Jazz, Modern Dance, Drama, Singing, Mime, Public Speaking, Musical Theatre, Pilates & Adult Classes

Call Vanessa for details on:

01424 850028John & Vanessa Pohlhammer, Principals - West End, Film and TV Performers/Directors/Choreographers. Teaching Qualifications: LAMDA, ISTD, BTDA, RBS, Full Member RAD, MRBS, AISTD, IDTA, LLAM & Guildhall

Battle School of DancingBallet, Modern and Tap

Contact Sarah Holt A.I.S.T.D.01424 773806

[email protected] or join us on facebook:facebook.com/battleschoolofdancing

Swimming Lessons are available at the Sovereign Centre 50 weeks of the year, for children and adults from six months plus. Lessons cater for all levels and abilities, and certificates and badges are awarded to pupils at the end of every level to celebrate their progress.

Children are encouraged to enjoy the benefits of swimming, and lessons ensure children have confidence in the water and are given the essential water safety skills for living by the sea.

The Sovereign Centre are now taking bookings for the current Term which runs until the 22nd December. Lessons can be paid for by the course or children and adults can enjoy the extra benefits of becoming a swimming lessons member from just £18.99* per month, including free parking and unlimited swimming outside of lessons!

For more information on the Sovereign Centre’s swimming lesson programme visit www.eastbourneleisurecentres.com/sovereign_centre or to enrol your child on the learn to swim programme call 0845 267 1200.

*£18.99 membership is a 12 month minimum term direct debit

The Rainbow TroutVillage Pub & Restaurant

Located between the famous towns of Rye and Battle, the Rainbow Trout is a beautiful, family friendly village pub

boasting a huge garden, outdoor play area, indoor toddler activity corner and a toddlers car track, ample parking

and a private function room.

Our traditional pub menu features a wide range of Home-Cooked & Locally Sourced food, with a separate

childrens menu. Breakfast served from 10am Thursday to Sunday

Halloween Childrens Party on October 31stBookings now being taken for Kids Christmas Parties

To find out more, please visit:

WWW.RAINBOWTROUTPUB.CO.UK

01424 882031Chitcombe Road, Broad Oak, Rye, E Sussex, TN31 6EU

Drop by and check out our new cafe and new menuopen 10am Mon-Fri, 9am Weekends

Breakfasts, great meals, home made cakes and much more!

T: 01424 447116 www.eathastings.co.uk [email protected] Ice cream, giftware & local crafts from our beautiful seaside kiosk

Fully licensed cafe withOutdoor Games and programme of events on the Open Space

Vegetarian, vegan and non-gluten menu items available.Open 364 days a year from 10am Mon-Fri, 9am Weekends.Late night opening for Stade Saturdays!Delicious Kellys Cornish scooped ice creams from our charming kiosk

Family Friendly Cafe DinerKids Eat HALF PRICE After 3pm*

ROUTE

1066Cafe

All day breakfasts, light lunches, Kids Menu & Much More!Quality food, great value, large car park and garden.

Open: Mon-Weds & Friday 7am-6pmThurs 7am-7.30pm Sat & Sun 8am-6pm

Situated on the A21 betweenRobertsbridge and Johns Cross, TN32 5JH

01580 [email protected]

* one child meal half price with each adult meal purchased

Dick Whittington this year’s magical pantomime adventure at the White Rock Theatre, opens on Friday 13th December 2013 and will run until Saturday 4 January 2014.Following the success of last year’s Peter Pan, The White Rock Theatre is delighted to announce that Ben Watson who received rave reviews for his performance of Smee, will be returning to play Simple Simon.Ben is very excited about coming back to Hastings as last Christmas he had a great time, made a lot of friends and has missed ‘proper fish n'chips!’When asked about playing the role of Simple Simon Ben replied “ My family have told me that the part suits me very well, which I don't really get because my names not Simon?”.Dick Whittington is the perfect pantomime, an unmissable treat for the forthcoming festive season, outstanding entertainment for all the family!Book now and take advantage of the opening weekend tickets just £14.50

A WARM AND HEARTY WELCOME AWAITS YOU

Relax and bring the whole family. We have a large garden with a fantastic, adventure play area for the children plus indoor arcade games to keep them entertained when the sun’s not shining!

THE STAR INN NORMANS BAY 01323 762648www.thestarinnnormansbay.co.uk

£4.95with this voucher

Mon-Fri Lunchtimes onlyusually £8.95

Our Famous Carvery Just

The Star Inn offers a fantastic range of food, including our famous carvery! The best joints of meat, roasted to perfection, with a choice of three succulent roasts and a vast array of steamed vegetables. With a varied childrens menu and some delicious vegetarian options, we have something for the whole family!


Halloween Shriek Week at Drusillas ParkNr Alfriston26th Oct to 3rd Nov 10am-5pmFang-tastically spooky half term fun at Drusillas. drusillas.co.uk

Halloween Fun26th Oct to 3rd NovYesterdays World, Battle High St.Ghost hunt, children go free when accompanied by a full paying adult.yesterdaysworld.co.uk

Halloween TrailBodiam Castle, Nr Robertsbridge26th Oct to 1st Nov 11am-3pmBecome a ghost sleuth, solve the mystery and claim a prize. Separate charges apply in addition to normal admissionnationaltrust.org.uk/bodiam-castle

Halloween DaytmeRare Breeds Centre, Highlands Farm, Woodchurch, Kent26th October to 1st NovemberCome in fancy dress for a chance of a prize. Spooky quiz trail.rarebreeds.org.uk

Zany Zone of Experiments28th OctoberObservatory Science Centre, HerstmonceuxCreate colour and experiment, be amazed by puzzles and weird kitchen science. Normal admission price plus £1 per child.the-observatory.org

Half Term Fun28th October - 1st NovemberSovereign Centre, Royal Parade, EastbourneA wide range of special events and activities for half term, Kids Holiday club, Junior Aqua Jets, Junior Scuba, Junior Diving, Halloween H20 Pool Party, daily visits from Sovey the Seal and much more. For full details of the exciting events on offer, please visit:eastbourneleisurecentres.com/sovereign_centre

Theatrical Make-up Workshop30th Oct 9.30-11.30am.Penshurst Place, Penshurst, Tonbridge.Create fake cuts, bruises & amputated fingers. For children aged 7+, tickets

£10. Normal admission prices apply for House & Grounds access.penshurstplace.com

Hallowe ‘en31st October, 10.30am to 4pm.Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham.Traditional entertainment, drama sessions, story telling, crafts and fun.www.sussexpast.co.uk

Halloween Storytelling31st Oct 2pm, 2.45pm & 3.30pm.Penshurst Place, Penshurst, Tonbridge.Bring on the Autumn shivers with some not too scary storytelling. Fancy dress competition at 4pm, come dressed to kill. penshurstplace.com

Event Listings

PUMPKIN & EYEBALL CUPCAKES FOR HALLOWEEN!

Go crazy with your decorations

Adults, don't attempt to lick the stirring spoon or bowl yourselves, make sure you ask a child to do this for you!

IngredientsMakes 12 cakes

90g self raising flour90g caster sugar90g softened butter2 medium eggs½ teaspoon vanilla essence

For the icing:

175g icing sugar1½ tablespoons warm water

Cooking InstructionsHeat your oven to 190c. Sift the flour into a bowl and add the sugar, butter and vanilla. Add the eggs and stir everything together until it's nice and creamy. Divide the mixture evenly between 12 paper cake cases and bake in the oven for about 15 minutes. To make the icing just mix icing sugar with water until you have a smooth white paste.

Why not have a bit of spooky fun in the kitchen this Halloween and make some gruesome cupcakes? We

made some eerie eyeball cakes and some petrifying pumpkin cakes and had a wail of a time!

Once your cupcakes and icing are prepared, divide the icing in two, leave one half white to make eyeball cakes

and mix in some orange food dye to the other half to use for your pumpkin cakes. Top the cupcakes with a

generous blob of icing.

Once the cakes are finished you can use "Writing Icing" pens available at your local supermarket to decorate

them. Morrisons offer a set with some spooky colours suitable for Halloween. Be as creative as you like with

your decorations, we made eyeballs and pumpkins but there are loads of other spooky things you can decorate

your cakes with. Just make sure to have lots of fun!

stay right up to date, join us on facebook and twitter

facebook.com/familybuzzmagazine@familybuzzmag

Michelham PrioryHallowe’en Fun Day

Thurs 31st Oct 2013 10.30 am to 4.00 pm

Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker, Hailsham, East Sussex, BN27 3QS

01323 844224 www.sussexpast.co.uk

Punch & Judy, Drama Sessions, Crafts and Hallowe’en Fun

Open all year round Come visit our farm for a fun filled

family day out!

Blackberry Farm, Whitesmith, East Sussex, BN8 6JD Tel: 01825 872912 www.blackberry-farm.co.uk

Café open all day, tractor rides, animal handling, pony rides,

birthday parties, memberships, pony club, large play area

and lots more……

Step into the Past... Today!New for 2013!

The Royal Family display

• Virtual & interactive exhibits • • Tea room with garden terrace •

• All weather attraction • Open all year •• Nostalgic sweet & gift shop •

• Large secure garden & play village •

Opposite Battle Abbey, 89-90 High Street, Battle, East Sussex TN33 0AQ

Tel: 01424 777226 • www.yesterdaysworld.co.uk

• Evocative sounds and smells of the past •• Fantastic life size street scenes and displays •

• 5 floors with over 150,000 nostalgic artefacts •• Experience over 125 years British Social History •

off standard admission per person (up to max 6)£1 Upon production of this voucher - valid 2013 only. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

01323 768490 | sharnfoldfarm.co.ukHailsham Rd, Stone Cross, East Sussex. BN24 5BU.

Open 7 days a week, 9.30am - 5.00pm

Farm Shop, traditional ButcherCoffee Shop, PYO, Farm Trail & play area

26 - 31 October

10am - 4pm

small fee per child

(3-16 yrs)CarvingCarving

The most fun pumpkin carving in townThe most fun pumpkin carving in town

PumpkinPumpkin

Kent & East Sussex RailwayTenterden Town Station

Telephone 01580 765155 or visit kesr.org.uk

28 October to 1 NovemberPumpkin Carving and ‘spooktacular’

entertainment with Mr Mystery.

31 October & 1 NovemberBe frightened silly on our

‘Halloween Howler’ evening train ride. Firework display! Face painting!

Pumpkin carving! Come in fancy dress -

the scarier the better!

Well that about wraps it up from us for the Autumn issue, we hope you enjoyed it!

We shall be back in November with a bumper Winter edition packed with

festive fun and frolics. If you're interested in advertising in

the Winter edition, please contact Debby on 01424 429 139 for more information about our

competitive rates. Our artwork deadline for the Winter issue is Friday 18th October

Have a spook-tacular Halloween everyone!


Kent & East SussexRailway

TENTERDEN TOWN STATION

Telephone 01580 765155 • kesr.org.uk

Day Out With Thomas ™ Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends ™ Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2013 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane

(Thomas) Limited. © 2013 HIT Entertainment Limited.

www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/kesr

September28th & 29th

Join Thomas & Friends™ at aHeritage Railway near you. Experience

a ride on a real steam train andtake part in Thomas-themed activities.

Kent & East Sussex RailwayTenterden, Kent TN30 6HE

In partnership with

Home of Thomas & FriendsTM toys

Documents

Family Buzz Autumn 2013