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Issue 53 | May/June 2017 www.familiesonline.co.uk What Dads really want for Father's Day Competitions! WIN family festival tickets

Moving In! How to blend two homes

The essential local magazine for parents and carerswww.familiesonline.co.uk | 1 LARGE MAIN TRAMPOLINE AREA KIDS & ADULT FREERUNNING DODGEBALL(Chi) DOUBLE ENDED FOAM PIT BUILDING JUMP (Chi) ROCK CLIMBING TUMBLE TRACK SLAM DUNK NINJA WARRIER (Chi) NOW OPEN! 3 PARTY ROOMS Follow us on social media for news and offers! PIZZA OVEN CAFE Chichester Southampton Glenmore Business Park Chandlers Ford Industrial Estate Chichester | PO19 7BJ Eastleigh | SO53 4DG 01243 256590 02382 247811 www.flipout.co.uk

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* Some game stalls may charge www.familiesonline.co.uk Managing Editor Mandy Earle [email protected] Contributors Sarah Macnaught Dan Flanagan Zoe Holland Next issue July/August 2017 Booking deadline 12th June 2017 Artwork deadline 14th June 2017 For all enquiries please call 02393 117 561 Covering: Littlehampton, Arundel, 4 News and views Worthing, Shoreham-by-Sea, Portslade, Brighton, Hove, 6 What Dads really want for Father’s Day Newhaven, Lewes, Eastbourne and all the places in between 7 The Dadifesto Delivered directly to local Family friendly festivals guide parents and carers since 2008 8 10 What’s on guide to family events 15 How to successfully blend two family homes

© Families Sussex Coast 2017 We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible Editor’s Note for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Sussex Coast is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise With Father’s Day in mind (18th June) this issue company. All franchised magazines in the group are we are focusing some attention on the often lesser independently owned and operated under licence. acknowledged parent, with help from the witty Dan Flanagan (AKA ‘Nathaniel’s Dad’) who has gathered up some fellow ‘writer-dads’ to give the low-down on what they really want (Head’s up, it’s not Homer Simpson socks...). This issue also brings our Family Festivals feature on pages 8 and 9, with our top picks of favourite local festi-events over the summer and three competitions for family tickets. We love hearing from our readers, so get in touch if you have something to share - a parenting tip, a funny story, photo, or a recipe - whatever it is, send it over to [email protected] and you may well be published in the next issue. Best wishes, Mandy Earle | Editor

fscmagazine @FamiliesSussexC

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 3 If you have a local news item you would like to Get OnBoard and learn new life skills share, please email hello@ Are you looking for an activity for your children where familiessussexcoast.co.uk they can learn new skills, make friends and have fun in the fresh air? This summer, get your youngsters active by introducing them to sailing and windsurfing through RYA OnBoard. Childline launches They’ll learn an exciting new sport in a safe environment, get out on the water and gain valuable life skills from problem new app to offer solving to taking responsibility. Once they get started in sailing counselling for kids the opportunities are endless. Everything you need is provided by the instructor. It’s The NSPCC’s Childline service affordable, fun and you don’t need to have any experience. has just launched a new iPhone Anyone aged 8-18 can take part in OnBoard sessions and with app to provide counselling over 245 RYA approved venues across the country there’s for kids directly through their bound to be one near you. You might even find you want to join mobile phones. in too! To find your nearest OnBoard activity visit rya.org.uk/ The ‘For Me’ app allows kids to onboard. #GetOnBoard access Childline’s online services, including 1-2-1 live chats with a counsellor, the ‘Ask Sam’ problem pages and entrance to their private ‘lockers’ – areas where they can write down Perform weekly drama, no-obligation their own personal thoughts and track their moods. FREE sessions for It was invented by four teenagers who wanted to use dance and singing classes newcomers! technology to address the urgent need for support among Perform is a unique young people. Childline founder Esther Rantzen said: “We children’s drama school know hundreds of thousands of young people use our website that has a special for help and support, with more than half those visits coming via mobile devices. Now young people can get immediate emphasis on child access to our counsellors through this brilliant, innovative development, using a app.” mix of drama, dance and The App is free to download via iTunes and is designed for singing to bring out every discreet usage. Read more at www.childline.org.uk child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes First Words from Lonely Planet focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Say “bonjour”, “hola” and “hello” to First Words, Coordination, and Concentration. the latest series of books from Lonely Planet The perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of Kids. energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class Simple, striking and beautifully illustrated, these three materials are written by Perform, with apps, CDs and videos new books - First Words: English, First Words: French that the children can play at home to keep the magic alive. and First Words: Spanish - are the perfect introduction Each term sees a brand new theme to keep imaginations to new languages for the whole family. buzzing. This Summer Perform’s 4-7s group will be saddling up Each First Words book contains 100 travel- and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the relevant words with a simple pronunciation guide Golden Mane. accompanying a bold, colourful illustration The 7-12s will be zooming off on a fun-filled outer space to give the word context – and to help make adventure with Robinson Crusoe in a space-age version of the remembering the new vocabulary easy and fun. castaway survival classic. You also get access to a free audio pronunciation Summer term runs until 21st July and starts up again 2nd guide by either scanning the QR code stickered September 2017 with venues in Hove, Rottingdean, Horsham on the book’s back cover or visiting www. and Haywards Heath. lonelyplanet.com/kids/first-words Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today. Tel: 020 7255 9120 / [email protected]

4 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | [email protected] Families Needed! Scientists and Business Mums (and Dads!) Wanted! pollinators want your help… Successful business woman is seeking 5 Imagine living in a desert with barely working partners to work part time from any food, hardly any water or any place home without compromising current to shelter. Unfortunately, this is exactly working or family commitments what it is like for the pollinating insects If you have Supervisory. Managerial, Sales, currently living in Britain. Marketing, Recruiting or a Self-Employed Loss of habitat, pesticides, and farming background, or you wish to develop an practices have left these insects hungry and extraordinary lifestyle, call to find out more homeless, suffering from a lack of feeding, nesting and shelter habitat. Which is why the Polli:Nation project needs your help. Now in its second year, the Polli:Nation survey is looking for Katie Bridge 07909 681884 | 01273 656067 families across the UK to take part in aiding research on the health and status of pollinating insects across the UK. The survey can be completed in under an hour in outdoor spaces such as gardens, school grounds, or local parks, and uploading your findings will contribute to important scientific research. The survey will also help you to consider whether your area Our nursery is part of Springfield School and is for is a good environment for bees and other pollinators. It offers children aged 3 and 4 years old. guidance on how you can create simple feeding and nesting Open habitats such as a pot of wildflowers, or nesting and shelter during habitats like a bee hotel, as well as other cheap and easy ways school hours you can improve your outdoor space for pollinators. Breakfast Free survey resources can be downloaded at www. Club Highly opalexplorenature.org/polli-nation and results can be Qualified submitted either online or by post. Staff

magical place to see them. The nursery is situated within the school building and is part of the The May half term break is Family everyday life at the school. We have highly qualified practitioners with fast approaching too! My years of experience in Early Years that work closely with the Reception Matters husband and I try to ensure staff team to ensure there is a quality approach to early learning and that we line up a bit of holiday care, in a bright and stimulating environment with quality resources. with Zoe Holland childcare over this week as it If you are interested please call into or phone the school office to book usually covers our wedding At last Summer an appointment to see us and to request an information pack. anniversary. The problem with is well and truly Springfield Infant School having 4 children is that no on its way! I love single set of Grandparents Sackville Road, Worthing BN14 8BQ this time of year....with the can cope with them all at Tel Number: 01903 219243 anticipation and high hopes once! Any 'us' time involves of the adventures and travel [email protected] weeks (if not months) of plans that lie ahead. There careful planning, lining up may still be a slight chill in the the Granny's, Nana's and We are highly committed to giving your child the best start to life. air but the days are longer, Grandpa's to make sure they the children can play out “Space to grow and wings to fly” avoid booking their next after school (which means cruise/walking tour/safari in they sleep better!) and there the short window when the is so much going on every children are off school. weekend! When the careful planning Every May we make a real works...everyone's a winner. effort to visit our local woods The children LOVE visiting and take some photos of the their Grandparents and it children playing amongst the goes without saying that bluebells. This has become the Grandparents cherish something of a tradition in their time with the children.... recent years and now we and we get 24 hours to be have a small collection of alone as grown-ups. Yes, the images showing the children, groundwork is well worth it! each year a little taller, in the most beautiful settings. We're Zoe is a Mum, Step-Mum, Teacher so lucky to be spoiled for and local explorer from East Sussex. choice in Sussex for places to She writes Jugglingonrollerskates. visit the bluebells, but I can com, a family focused blog recommend Heaven Farm featuring events, places to eat, days in Danehill as a particularly out and short breaks.

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 5 'Dad La Soul' Father's Day Sunday 18th June 4-7 pm St Pauls Arts Centre, Worthing What Dads really want TotRockinBeats presents a party that will keep you and your little people on the dancefloor. Featuring a live set by 'The Impellers', an amazing 10-piece live Funk this Father’s Day & Breaks band playing a mix of absolute bangers that you'll know and love. An With shops cramped to the rafters with novelty socks, mugs, memorabilia and event that brings you a marvellous mash- other assorted ‘dad’ tatt you could be forgiven for thinking that is exactly what up of entertainment for all ages, that the weather can't spoil. Find DJs playing dads actually want for Father’s day. But you know what you couldn’t be ‘father’ a mix of Funk, Soul, Hip-Hop, Indie & from the truth. Here five of the writers for the superb dads website, ‘Don’t Party Classics, soft-play area, craft area, Believe The Hype’ break down the facts on what dads really, really, really want. Lego, face painting, Bee-fit - Fun Fitness, licenced bar & food, a chill-out zone and so much more. The gift of love they are at that point forever. Learning to love your child’s bodily Now a photo or video doesn't cut it for Father’s Day at Hever Castle secretions – They ain’t going anywhere my perfect freeze frame. I want to have 17 – 18 June soon. I’ve always fitted snugly in the the feelings, the thoughts that are run- ning through my head, the twinkle in their Hever Castle and Gardens, Kent TN8 7NG ‘Squeamish’ category, particularly in Treat Dad like a King with a memorable relation to other people’s bodily waste. eyes that a photo doesn't quite catch and everything else about that moment. Except, Super Car themed day out at Hever Though it’s something I’ve had to get over Castle & Gardens. Presented in maybe, for most of the smells, those you since having twins. partnership with the Henry Surtees can keep. - Stuart Hardman. The boy one is currently potty training Foundation there will be classic cars on (the girl one, mercifully, somehow trained Just don’t ask display as well as fun activities for the herself in a weekend – clever lil’ lassie!!). I never ask the kids for an object or item as kids. Children can colour and decorate a It has felt like I’ve been drowning in wee a present. Instead I ask them to do some- card for their dad in a free craft workshop these last few weeks. Often not realising and try out the kart simulator for a race thing which genuinely puts them out, but until that acrid ammonia smell has around Buckmore Park. they enjoy. This year's request is no devices scorched my nostrils and made me wretch. with any type of screen for the whole day. I’ve also found pellets of poo in my shoes. Instead we head out somewhere, have Dads Can Do And in the turn-ups of my jeans, snot in brekkie and go exploring somewhere we 18 June my beard, scraped milky vomit out of the have never been. Cameras are allowed but most inconvenient nooks and crannies. Amberley Museum, Nr Arundel, BN18 9LT nothing else. The world can wait... Just for a What, do you want me to go on forever? Be A special day of hands on activities day. - Steven Welton. Zen, breathe deeply and accept it. - Gram for Dads and children, bring the whole Canyon. family to explore the Museum. Enjoy Go with the flow birds of prey displays with Hawking Take an interest in what your children do. About and steam days with the resident Dad Magic Sounds obvious. But when they are telling My Dad who sadly is no longer with us steam trains riding the railway around you the same thing for the hundredth time to celebrate Father’s Day created what the site. Free entry for one Dad with a full and all you want to do is tell them that, yes, I describe as Dad Magic. This is the paying child (not in conjunction with any you understand and would they kindly stop indescribable feeling that you can only get other offer). The Fairmile Cafe will also be going on about it, just listen to them. And by spending time with your Dad. The best open for cream teas. keep the conversation going. Put your own example of dad magic I have are the times interests aside and go with the flow once when he used to get home from work on in a while. his motorbike and let me sit on the back Other advice to dads: put your mobile with a helmet. phone away. You can live without it and so We'd ride up and down our road before he can your kids. - Dominic Murrray. put it away in the garage. We were proba- bly only doing under 5 MPH but in my tiny So there you have it. This is what we dads 6 year old mind it felt like I was clinging on want, not just this year, but every year on for dear life to my heroic dad at 80 MPH as this most sacred of days. PS: I am not sure we teared around the Isle of Man TT circuit. that any ideas of these are available on What I want on Father’s day is, to be able Amazon. For more of this kind of dad chat to create and enjoy some dad magic of my check out www.dontbelievethehype.biz or own. - David Taylor follow @DBTHSocialPR on Twitter. The perfect freeze frame I am forever saying to my kids "stay just like that, don't get any older". Now don't get me wrong, I love watching them grow up and with each birthday they have I love seeing the way they change. The joy of seeing them find their own place in the world. But sometimes each one of them looks or does something so perfect (I promised myself I wouldn't cry, sniff, pass the tissues) that I wish they could stay as

6 | [email protected]

The That is, of course, when he the plot of most 1970s sitcoms is not encamped on his sofa, once again, and been paid Dadifesto lounging in a cloud of his handsomely for it. with Dan Flanagan flatulence and barking orders at The concept of women being his put-upon spouse. the decision makers, the When major food companies shoppers, the child carers may Fatherhood is a scary thing. the 90s. Imagine the date when like Heinz release a line of baby once have held water, but the Combine that with the New Lad became New Dad, foods with slogans emblazoned tide is turning, and marketing onslaught of an average and you will be halfway there. on the side declaring the types need to realise that. If we mid-life crisis, then life as Now as responsible child- product is “inspired by a recipe feel you don’t take us seriously, a Dad in 2017 is a pretty rearing grown-ups with careers from Sophie, a mum just like we will not take you seriously. daunting task. and mortgages, we expect you”, they instantly dismiss the Consumers always have a We’re a generation raised by more out of family life and we possibility that dads can take choice and those brands that Dad 1.0. Our role models were want to look good and have fun an active part in feeding their dismiss dads risk being left hard-grafting providers who did while we are doing it. children. behind. little of the actual day to day Unfortunately, the marketing The implication here is that it So how about this Father’s Day, hands-on childcare. world has yet to catch up with is the mother’s responsibility you don’t just settle with getting They splashed on the Brut, the reality of modern parenting. to ensure a child eats well and your dad a pair of slippers or a dished out the discipline and In advertising, dad is still the stays out of danger. What dad ’Best Dad In The World’ cup. ruled over the remote control hapless sap who simply can’t is up to while these decisions Get him something he can of a three-channel world with a get anything right. are being taken is never fully really be proud of, like some rod of iron. He burns any foodstuff that explained, but presumably he’s recognition of equality in the Now in 2017, as Dad 2.0, we’re dares venture close to the about to be distracted while parenting stakes. The word not only expected to but are oven, stares blankly at the bodging a long-standing DIY ‘Dad’ is only three letters but proud to do more than our fair mention of putting the job, falling off his ladder as he they mean an awful lot. lusts after a woman at least share of bum and tear-wiping washing on as if he had never Dan is Editor of website three leagues above his? because being a dad is quite visited his own utility room and dontbelievethehype.biz - the world’s possibly the best job in the returns from the supermarket The punchline will inevitably first agency of Dad - and founder world. with 15 pomegranates and a see his wife roll her eyes and of TotRockinBeats, 3 hours of family We’re the Grange Hill party pack of Twiglets when he a team of ad execs will high friendly funk designed to put kids generation that came of age was supposed to have hunter- five, celebrating the fact that on the dance floor and babysitters while raving and Britpoppin’ in gathered the Christmas dinner. they have successfully recycled out of business. GETACTIVE

See the endless possibilities sailing and windsurfing can bring

Keep your children stimulated, active and entertained this summer by introducing them to sailing or windsurfing through the RYA’s OnBoard programme. They’ll learn an exciting new activity in a safe, structured environment and gain valuable life skills, from problem solving and decision making to leadership and teamwork. The programme also compliments school curriculums in many key subject areas.

Fun, affordable and open to anyone age 8-18, there are over 245 RYA approved clubs and centres across the country taking part. To find your nearest visit rya.org.uk/onboard

rya.org.uk/onboard

Families_Magazine_Ad2.indd 1 www.familiesonline.co.uk06/04/2017 11:40 | 7 Just because we have children doesn’t mean we don’t love the festival vibe! Luckily we have some fantastic family friendly events happening within Family driving distance so we can enjoy that magical festival feeling with our kids. Here’s a selection of Festivals our favourites that we highly recommend! Love Supreme Jazz Festival 30th June to 2nd July at Glynde Place, East Sussex Now in it’s 5th Year, Love Supreme has already established itself as a key date in the UK festival calendar. With icons from jazz, soul and R&B headlining the bill, along with the best emerging talent from across the globe, it’s easy to see why. This year is no different, with headline slots for The Jacksons, Herbie Hancock, Gregory Porter and George Benson as well as support from the likes of Corinne Bailey Rae, Laura Mvula and Nao. Across the weekend you can also enjoy some fantastic food and wellbeing classes, as well as talks and panels in the Verve Jazz Lounge. For your chance to win a Family Ticket for the weekend, which includes 2 adults and three junior tickets, email hello@ familiessussexcoast.co.uk with your name, address and phone number - closes 30th June 2017. Find more info at www.lovesupremefestival.com

Into The Trees Festival 9th and 10th September 10am - 5pm at Pippingford Park, Uckfield ‘A day of discovery for parents, grandparents and kids of all ages’ Into The Trees returns to the heart of the Ashdown Forest. A fascinating journey into the amazing world of wood, showcasing activities to inspire the whole family. Pippingford Park provides the perfect venue for exploration and discovery. Six diverse zones offer demonstrations to open your eyes to the way we can play, work and live in unity with . Enjoy the tranquillity of protected ancient woodland and the simple pleasures of spending time outdoors. Kids will love playing in the trees and exploring ways to live in their branches. Take a guided forage to find out about surviving in the trees. Then wander in to a world of art and working in the trees and take in the wonderful wildlife. The perfect day to end the school holidays at one of the UK’s most magical designated areas of outstanding natural beauty. For your chance to win a Family day ticket email [email protected] with your name, address and phone number - closes 30th June 2017. Find more info at into-the-trees.co.uk Wild Wood Festival 27th – 29th May 10am – 5pm. Wakehurst, Ardingly, Sussex Enter the heart of one of Wakehurst’s most magical spaces and unlock the secrets of our ancient woodland. Discover the vibrant lifecycle of the woods with the new woodland trail, gather round the woodland kiln to see the sparks fly, or rest a while in the woodland shelter to share a taste of bread from the outdoor bread-oven. Watch woodsmen at work, making products or coppicing the woods, and get a glimpse into what Wakehurst does to protect woodlands such as these for future generations to enjoy. For young adventurers there’s tree-climbing, archery and fire-lighting, hands-on woodland crafts, not forgetting a chance to let off steam at the Treetrunk Trek. Then it’s time for tales of folklore by story-tellers and entertainment by the troupe of woodland performers. Take a close-up look at nature in a drop-in photography workshop or make your mark on the woodland art wall. Entry to the festival is free with garden admission. See www.kew.org/wildwood for more detail.

Elderflower Fields Festival 26th – 29th May at Pippingford Park, Uckfield Spring Festival Elderflower Fields is a three 13th May 11am to 7pm at St day, green field camping Ann’s Well Gardens, Hove festival designed especially for families with children. A fantastic, free one day festival A wild weekend adventure, celebrating it's 10th Anniversary. packed full of music, sports, nature This year sees a great line up and the arts, all set in the heart of the of music from Noisettes to Dr Durrington Festival beautiful Sussex countryside. Roberts from the Blow Monkeys. Elderflower Fields isn’t known for its 10th June from 1pm at Durrington There's a huge range of family big headlining musical acts, the main Recreation Ground, Worthing activities planned including kid's fun zone, squirrel market, retreat focus rightly remains on providing a The small committee run festival returns zone for therapies, market stalls, safe and inspiring environment for for another year. You’ll find a great food stalls and hog roast, art & kids to enjoy new experiences in the carnival atmosphere, arena events, live crafts, karate workshops, yoga great outdoors. That said, you can still entertainment and activities. This year's & relaxation, zorbing, giant find hugely talented musicians and theme is Pirates, so come dressed up slides, bungee trampoline, stilt performers allowing a small, grass in your best pirate outfit. Nominate your walking, sumo suits, samba, roots festival like this the opportunity Prince or Princess between the age of face painting, tennis coaching, to have fantastic acts that really 8 and 13 years online, a young person entertainers, and some of the deliver. See website for full list of who has done something really good, best dance groups from the area activities www.elderflowerfields.co.uk big or small! www.durringtonfestival. to entertain on the main green! co.uk. England’s Medieval Festival 26th- 28th August at Herstmonceux Castle, Hailsham BN27 1RN The fairy tale setting of Herstmonceux Castle hosts an epic celebration of history every August Bank Holiday weekend when hundreds of families immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and spectacle of the past. This hugely popular annual event is the most authentic of its kind in the UK, and an unforgettable way for your family to discover the magic of history. Enjoy a dazzling array of demonstrations, realistic battles, thrilling jousting, magnificent parades, highly-skilled falconry, music, dance and even a hilarious Mud Show. Join the fun with have-a-go jousting, archery and axe throwing; sword school; drum school; plus workshops in traditional arts and crafts for all ages. Jesters, knights, dragons and princesses delight the kids; while the living history village offers a chance to see what life was really like in the middle ages. Come for the day or stay all weekend in the stunning castle campsite. Tickets at www.englandsmedievalfestival.co.uk To enter our competition to win a family weekend camping ticket please email hello@ familiessussexcoast.co.uk with your name, address and phone number - closes 30th June 2017.

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 9 6 May 7 and 8 May Same Sky Children's Parade NEST Kensington Street, Brighton, BN1 4AJ Brighton Dome Founders Room, 01273 700747 Church St, BN1 1UE. 01273 709709 - see details page 9 for Wakehurst at Wood Wild This annual procession of joyful An immersive performance for music, colourful costumes and pre-walking babies and their We’ve scoured the area for the best local family jubilant youngsters returns to carers. Unfolding in a custom- the streets of Brighton. In an built performance tent, NEST events this May and June so you don’t have to! event reputed to be the biggest takes audiences on a sensory of its kind in Europe, the 5000 journey through the seasons, We take great care in compiling participants from more than 80 using playful poetry, sound, live Spot the schools will be interpreting this instruments, song, captivating our events guide, but please do dot for FREE year’s theme of Poetry in Motion movement, and tactile and contact venues before you leave events! in their own inventive ways. Join sensory play. Gentle, surprising the crowds of proud parents and and magical. 10am, 11.15am, home as things can change. enchanted spectators. Led by the 12.30pm, 2pm. Duration: 40 Hot 8 Brass Band bringing some minutes. 1 Adult + 1 baby £10. 4 May – 4 June 6 May Kids Run Free New Orleans style to Brighton’s 8 and 9 May The Warren streets. From 10.30am Free event. St Peter's Church North, York Place, Victoria Park and Playing Fields, Jeramee, Hartleby and Brighton, BN1 4GU. 01273 987516 Norfolk Street, Worthing, BN11 4BD 6 – 7 May Oooglemore Described as the ‘festival-within- www.kidsrunfree.co.uk Owls ‘Out and About’ Theatre Royal, Brighton BN1 1SD Free running event for toddlers a-festival’, The Warren is an Paradise Park, Newhaven, BN9 0DH We all remember our childhood to teens on the first Saturday exciting, imaginative, multi-venue Experience the magic of getting trips to the seaside. Delightfully of every month. Register your site that pops up for the duration up close to our feathered friends. innocent and gloriously child online and print your of Brighton Fringe. With over 600 Normal admission applies. silly, Jeramee, Hartleby membership barcode to bring performances from comedy to and Oooglemore sees the with you. Arrive 8.45am for 7 May circus, a Market Town, family area three characters of the title registration and warm up. and fantastic food stalls and bars. Antiques and Vintage Fair experiencing the ups, downs Brighton Racecourse, Freshfield and complexities of a day at 5 May – 4 June 6 May Road, BN2 9XZ. 01293 690 777 the beach when you are just a Opening Saturday With up to 170 indoor stalls Brighton Fringe 2017 small person. Conveying a huge Various locations, Brighton Goodwood Racecourse, for you to explore, bristling range of emotions using just their 01273 91 7272 / brightonfringe.org Chichester, PO18 0PS with some amazing antiques, actions and three words, this is a England’s largest arts festival Enjoy quality racing at a beautiful collectables and vintage items, masterclass in physical comedy… and one of the largest fringe racecourse and experience some plus a friendly and welcoming with a heart. For ages 3-7. festivals in the world. Set out to of the many sporting pursuits fair. Swing singer Steve Conway Duration: 50 minutes. £10, Family stimulate, educate and entertain available across the Goodwood performing throughout the day. Ticket (4 people) £35. Various a diverse range of people through Estate including motor sport, 9:30am - 4pm. show times. a diverse range of art forms. This flying and golf. Visit goodwood. 7 May year’s programme includes a com for tickets. 11:30am - 6pm. 12 and 13 May record-breaking 932 shows and Tickets start from just £10. Village Race If I Could I Would Storrington Riverside walk and events across a dizzying array of All Saints Church, The Drive, Hove, 6 May Library Car Park Pulborough art forms, more than 200 events BN3 3QE. 01273 709709 Aaaand it’s back! Twig the Join in from midday for the annual are free. A fast-paced piece of physical Pixie Family Funsplosion Village Duck Race to raise money theatre featuring virtuoso 6, 13, 20, 27 May and 3 June Komedia, Gardner Street, Brighton for the Friends of Storrington acrobatics, imagination and Twig the Pixie has lost his School. There will more hotly Monski Mouse's Baby Disco humour that recognises it Brighton Spiegeltent, Old Steine marbles! Help him find them in contested races this year with sometimes takes a superhuman Gardens, BN1 1GY. 01273 917272 this hit stand-up comedy show 6 heats; the top ten from effort to rise above the relentless Parents and under-5s are let for all ages with stories, music, each heat being entered into the demands of everyday urban life. loose on the dance floor in this audio visuals, interactive bits Grand Finale, making 7 races in An all-female cast delivering friendliest of discos. Created by and surprises. A family favourite all. Buy ducks in advance or on a heart-warming message to DJ, producer and mum of two. returning to the Fringe and your the day. There will be fun-fair everyone about resilience in the Get your disco-dancing-booties chance to meet a real pixie from rides and face-painting, craft face of the everyday grind. Age on to an eclectic selection of retro The Enchanted Forest. 4pm stalls, live music, ice-cream and 6+. Duration 45 minutes. £12, hits and funky nursery rhymes. (Doors 3:45pm). Running time 60 cakes plus the popular BBQ. 12 - Under 16s £8. 11am. Tickets £8. min. Tickets £5 (+£1 fees). 2:30pm.

10 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | [email protected] 13 May live on stage featuring all your Book BAFTA Kids - Behind the favourite characters from Britain’s online barmy past! Will King John be a and Scenes martyr for the Magna Carta? Will Brighton Dome Founders Room, Save! you lose your heart or your head Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UE to Henry VIII? Can Parliament Luke Franks and London Hughes survive gunpowder Guy? Light (CiTV’s Scrambled) present up your life with the great fire of two events. Ages 7 – 12 will see London! Escape the clutches of May Half Termerm is... behind the scenes of the films, Burke and Hare and move to the TV shows and games that were groove with party Queen Victoria! nominated at last year’s BAFTA It’s the history of Britain with the Children’s Awards. Tickets £5. nasty bits left in! 2pm and 7pm. Pirate Week! 10.30am – 12.15pm. Tickets £15. Family of four £51. For ages 9 – 13 there is a fun and practical workshop in TV 13 and 14 May presenting. Is it difficult working Weekend Without Walls in a live studio? How do you stop 13th May at Easthill Park, Portslade, yourself laughing in front of the BN41 2FA and 14th May at East camera? £10 per child (adults Brighton Park, Brighton. 01273 700747 Ahoy Mateys! free). 2pm – 4pm. Two afternoons of inventive Raise the Jolly Roger and performances, from mini theatre set sail for the shores of 13 May shows to bingo, featuring Willy Spring Barn Farm from The Bolds Mon 29th And Wally, Witness This, Corzon May - Fri 2nd Sallis Benney Theatre, a Corazon, Theatre For One, Our perilous pirate willJune: be Brighton BN2 0JY Orbis, To Me, To You and Happy on hand to share swash-buckling stories The Bolds is a series of tales Feet. Pack your family and your packed with fun, adventure and and lead you on the picnic and head to the park to treasure map trail! laughter. Created by Julian Clary, enjoy an afternoon of inventive See website for full and the award-winning illustrator performance. All new shows and and to book tickets.details David Roberts, Julian reads two completely free. 12 – 5pm. stories, while David draws live in this hilarious and creative event. 14 May Age 7+. 3pm. Walk for Wadars springbarnfarmspringbarnfarm.com.com Just 5 minutes from Lewes, or 15 minutes from Brighton! Goring Gap Green, Goring, BN12 4HR Spring Barn Farm, Kingston Road, Lewes, BN7 3ND 13 May This is a fantastic family event Comedy Club 4 Kids and is suitable for your canine Komedia, 44-47 Gardner Street, friends too. The 5 mile walk is Brighton, BN1 1UN, 0845 2938480 along Worthing Promenade Comedy Club 4 Kids bring the starting and finishing in Goring best stand-ups and sketch acts Gap Green near Sea Lane from the international circuit to Cafe. All money raised goes do their thing for an audience towards Wadars Animal Rescue. of children (aged 6+) and their Registrations on the day of event. families… but without the rude 10am start. If you'd like to get bits! Featuring MC Tom Webb, your sponsorship pack early Ben Van Der Velde and singer Jay email [email protected] Foreman. Ages 6+. 2pm. Doors from 1:30pm. £8.50/£6.50 Conc. 14 May Commercial Vehicles 13 May Amberley Museum and Heritage Horrible Histories Centre, Station Road, Amberley, Pavilion Theatre, Worthing, BN11 3PX BN18 9LT. 01798 831370 01903 206 206 Interesting and historic We all want to meet people from commercial vehicles will be at the history. The trouble is everyone museum along with the Borgward is dead! So it’s time to prepare Drivers Club. 10am–4pm. yourselves for Horrible Histories Standard admission applies.

Station Road, Amberley, Arundel West Sussex BN18 9LT 01798 831370 [email protected] Great days out at Amberley Museum With 36 acres to explore and 40 exhibits to visit, there is so much to discover learn and have fun at Amberley Museum in any weather. With over 50 events planned for 2017 including: 27th to 29th May Bank Holiday, Traditional Crafts Weekend. Please visit our website for more information.

Free car park located next to Amberley railway station. Under 4s go free. Accessibility friendly, and Dogs on leads are welcome. www.amberleymuseum.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 11 27 May – 4 June 15 May 27 and 28 May Sausages, Spaghetti and Edwardian Life Hever Castle and Gardens, Margo Piano Musical Show Sharks in Parks Komedia, Brighton BN1 1UN Brighton Dome Concert Hall, BN1 1UE Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NG 01732 865224 0845 293 848 In this food-themed spectacular Margo Piano is a young girl with Go back in time to the early (with the odd shark thrown in), a big dream; she would like to 20th century and enjoy a fascinating glimpse of the Edwardian era the much-loved illustrator Nick sail away on a boat to discover just before the First World War when the Astors were in residence. Sharratt shares tasty favourites the islands in the middle of the Children can take part in an Edwardian school where old fashioned and stories that are new on the sea. But there is one big problem PE sessions will take place and the ‘three Rs’ of reading, writing and menu. If you want to draw along – water scares Margo Piano. In arithmetic are taught each day in an old fashioned classroom. with Nick, bring paper, drawing this educational and musical Learn about the study and collection of butterflies and moths from things, and something to rest. show, a one-man-band tells the the colourful resident lepidopterist. Meet costumed characters from For ages 5 - 8. 5.30pm. story of Margo Piano and other the era as you explore the award-winning gardens, and look out characters who are represented 17 May for visitors arriving in full Edwardian dress with prizes for the best by different musical instruments. dressed boy and girl each day. Skips After School Club For ages 4 to 9. Running time 60 Theatre Royal, New Road, Brighton, All the family can try their hand at traditional games of the period min. Tickets £7 (+£1 fees). BN1 1SD. 0870 0606650 including a coconut shy, tin-can alley, and bean bag race, or enjoy Friendly, fun and informal a leisurely game of croquet on the lawn. Follow an Edwardian quiz 27 - 29 May sessions for 6–10 year olds. Each though the rooms of the Castle to learn which stories captured Castle Siege themed session includes drama the imagination of children in the period. Activities are included in Arundel Castle and Gardens, and craft activities, a look on normal admission prices. Arundel, BN18 9AB. 01903 882173 stage, games with squash and It is 1485 and Richard III is King biscuits. Children are dropped off of England. Henry Tudor, Earl 21 May 27 May and collected from the foyer. 4pm. of Richmond has laid claim Tickets £7.50 Papertale and Half Moon Drawing Workshop to the throne and landed in present Boys Don't Paradise Park, Newhaven, BN9 0DH 20 May Wales, supported by French The Spire, St. Mark’s Chapel, Eastern 01273 512123 forces. Seeing an opportunity, a Tales of Birbal Road, Brighton, BN2 5JN Come along to the free Drawing French force has also crossed The Grand Hotel, Brighton, BN1 2FW What’s a boy to do? From the Workshop with artist Lesley the channel, seized the Kings Mashi Theatre’s travelling playground to the classroom, Harvey in the Coffee Shop at Ordinance and surrounded the storytellers stop by to share from home to the uncharted Paradise Park. 11am – 1pm. castle at Arundel. Full of crafts, the enchanting Tales of Birbal waters of online, boys learn that costumes and armour of the – ancient stories of adventure 27 May displaying their feelings is a no- period. Tickets: Adult £21, Child and problem-solving that have no. But what happens to emotion Sunshine Carnival Eastbourne Seafront, Grand Parade, £11, Family £53. been treasured for centuries that can’t be let out? Through BN21 3AD. 07903 887 569 across the Indian subcontinent. funny, familiar and sometimes 27 – 29 May The biggest Seafront Carnival in Using puppetry and music, Mashi heart breaking stories drawn Traditional Crafts the South East returns, with more unearths the richness in these from real-life experiences a show Amberley Museum, Near Arundel than 1,500 walkers expected to legends. Age 6+. BSL interpreted that delivers insights into male BN18 9LT. 01798 831370 take part with some 25,000 fans show. 50 mins. £10pp, Family experiences of growing up. Age Over the weekend find visiting and supporters. The Carnival Ticket £35. 11.30am & 2.30pm. 8 -12 and adults (not suitable for crafts people demonstrating their will be from the Western Lawns under 8s). 2pm & 4pm. Duration skills and techniques. Along with 20 - 21 May to Princes Park on the Eastern 60 minutes. Tickets £10. the resident crafts people this is Military Vehicle and Home end of the seafront. Live music a great opportunity to see many Front Event 27 May and entertainment throughout traditional crafts from our past, Amberley Museum, BN18 9LT Kids Run Free the day. Free entry. www. with many stalls selling their A weekend of nostalgia and East Hill Park. East Hill Way, eastbournecarnival.co.uk crafts work. Standard admission. history to go back in time to the Portslade, BN41 2FA wartime period. Dress up and be Free running event for toddlers 27 May – 4 June part of this great historic event, to teens on the fourth Saturday Superhero Week and on the Sunday take part of every month. Register your Fishers Farm Adventure Park in the evacuee train. A vintage child online and print off your Newpound Lane, RH14 0EG hairdresser will be on site to membership card (barcode) to Fly over for the Superhero finish your look for the day, and bring along with you. Arrive at experience of a lifetime! Get music and dances to enjoy. 8.45am for registration and warm involved in the assault course to Watch re-enactments, dioramas, up. www.kidsrunfree.co.uk test your agility and speed. Lift military vehicles and enjoy period weights to make you big and bus rides. strong. Dress up as your favourite 27 May - 4 June hero or create your own. You may 20 - 21 May even meet a REAL Superhero! Sussex Gardens Open 2017 Downy Duckling Days Holford Manor, North Chailey, WWT Arundel, Mill Road, BN18 9PB 28 May BN8 4DU. 01273 021241 01903 883355 Big Family Fun Day The stunning gardens at Holford Spring is the best time to meet Fontwell Park, Arundel BN18 0SY Manor are open for two days the new families of ducklings, A fantastic family day out! Find from 11am – 4pm. Find rare sheep cygnets and goslings around the reserve! From and zorbing, face painting, bouncy grazing in the meadow, resident tufted ducks to and moorhens there will be plenty of busy castle, fun fair, pony rides, laser geese, and bees working to make bird families diving, dabbling and pecking for food among the quest, mini zoo, inflatable assault honey which will be available and . You might also spot dragonflies and butterflies course, Plus new for 2017 the to buy. A perfect day out for and there will be plenty of colourful wild flowers to enjoy. Daily Grand Bounce National, a fun family and friends this Spring. ducky activities and dipping. Story Time and Crackin' Crafts, inflatable horse race for everyone Entry: £5pp, Children free with plus Discovery Boat Safari. Activity times vary. to enjoy! accompanying adult.

12 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | [email protected] Gladiators! 1st & 2nd July 29 May - 2 June 10am-5pm Pirate Week 1st & 2nd July Spring Barn Farm, Kingston Road, 10am-5pm Lewes BN7 3ND Ahoy mateys! Raise the Jolly Spectacular displays Roger and set sail for the shores of of Gladiatorial contests Spring Barn Farm, where the ever popular Pirate Week returns for May at Fishbourne Roman Half Term. The Perilous Pirate will be sharing swash-buckling stories Palace. and leading visitors on the Treasure Map Trail to find the hidden loot! Plus, with daily activities, cute animals to meet and loads of Cheer your favourite indoor and outdoor play to discover, there is so much farm fun for landlubbers to enjoy at Spring Barn Farm this May Half Term. Visit Gladiator and decide the website for full details and to book online and save. the fate of the loser.

28 May 29 May Really Happy Kids Steyning Country Fair Brighton Youth Centre, 64 Edward Steyning town centre Street BN2 0JR. 07856 660664 Music and dancing with many PO19 3QR 01243 785859 A great family day out and the acts to entertain the young and www.sussexpast.co.uk best way to try out different old. including the popular dog activities and workshops that show. Turn back the clock and local clubs have to offer. There’ll experience the atmosphere of be performances from theatre Steyning as an old market town, groups, sports and martial art complete with livestock, rural clubs, circus skills and a chance crafts, stalls and demonstrations, to take part in workshops and together with clowns, jugglers, activities. Free event. www. puppets, music and other reallyhappykids.com entertainment for all the family. 28 May Free event. Dogs Trust Fun Day 29 May Dogs Trust Shoreham, Brighton Rd, James Campbell - The Funny Shoreham-by-Sea BN43 5LT ACTIVITIES AND COURSES FOR Thing About... CHILDREN DURING THE SCHOOL 01273 466971 The Old Market, Hove, BN3 1AS HOLIDAYS Annual Fun Day with activities for 01273 201 801 the whole family, 2- and 4-legged! A stand-up show for children over BRIGHTON AND HOVE From raffles to dog shows, 6, their parents and anyone who PREP SCHOOL craft stalls to refreshments. £1 likes comedy without the rude entrance fee. 11.30 – 4pm. words. Making fun of everything from couscous to penguins to MONDAY - FRIDAY, 8AM - 6PM 29 May AGES 4 - 12 • OFSTED REGISTERED FROM Love Your Museum Nintendo Wii. Tickets: £8.50. 2.30pm. WITH CODE Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, SAVE 15% £34 Hove, BN3 4AB. 03000 290900 30 May FAMILIES17 PER DAY Get creative with craft, listen to Toddler Tuesday stories and explore the galleries Amberley Museum, Near Arundel, with some special trails. Make a BN18 9LT. 01798 831370 shadow puppet in the workshop A morning of activities for 0-5 and bring them to life on the years. Accompanying adults shadow screen with the expert will receive a complementary help of the exhibiting puppeteers. hot drink voucher for the Puppet Making workshop Limeburners Cafe. This day the 10.30am–12.30pm, 2- 4pm. Drop- theme will be ' All about trains'. in, £3. For 6 years and over. Standard admission applies. 29 May 31 May Hove Carnival Family Activity Day Hove Park, BN3 7BF Amberley Museum, Near Arundel, An exciting afternoon with the BN18 9LT. 01798 831370 main arena packed with exciting Family activities for children to shows such as the Galloping take part in around the Museum. Acrobatics, an airborne tightrope Hawking About will be visiting and stunt bike show, the Stix with their birds of prey displays. Drummers and breath-taking Flyball. Teams will be flexing their 31 May muscles with a tug of war and The Boy and The Mermaid there will be the popular annual Connaught Studio Worthing, dog show with judges searching BN11 1BA. 01903 206 206 for the dog with the waggiest tail Based on an original story by Alex and the cleverest trick! Elsewhere Kanefsky, this new play explores there will be stalls children's the fate of one little fishing town, entertainment, amusements, fun exposed to the mercy of sea fair rides, cake stalls and rides on monsters, mer-creatures and Hove Park's miniature railway. spectacularly bad >>>

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 13 11 June Family Race Day Goodwood Racecourse, Chichester, PO18 0PX. 01243 755073 24 June A great family day out with a thrilling afternoon of horseracing, this Kids Run Free fixture also features hands-on workshops, farrier demonstrations, East Hill Park. East Hill Way, a chance to walk the course, trips to the race start as well as Portslade, Brighton, BN41 2FA a behind-the-scenes tour of the racecourse. A unique treat for See listing on 27 May for more children and an opportunity for the whole family to experience the details. >>> town planning. Traditional world of horseracing at Goodwood, whilst supporting the highly 24 June sea shanties combine with new valuable work of the NSPCC. music in a tale told through lyrical Drawing Workshop storytelling, quirky puppetry and Paradise Park, Avis Road, Newhaven innovative physical theatre. 2pm. BN9 0DH. 01273 512123 17 June £12 or family of four £40. Age 3 – 4 June Come along to the free Drawing guidance 6+. Run time 55m (no Military weekend Children's Parade Workshop with artist Lesley interval). Shoreham Fort, Shoreham-by-Sea Splash Point, Marine Parade, Harvey. 11am – 1pm. Worthing, BN11 3PX, 07717 705382 07787 994815 24 – 25 June 1 June Join the carnival parade, a Join the Fort for their big Incredible Insects weekend Living History Day annual event, where they bring dynamic day of music, dance WWT Arundel, Mill Road, BN18 9PB Arundel Castle and Gardens, Shoreham Fort to life. They and creative arts. It starts on From 9.30am - 5pm, pick up an Arundel, BN18 9AB. 01903 882173 will take you through from the Worthing seafront and snakes activity leaflet at the admission Set within the upper grounds of Victorian era, when the fort was its way around the town centre. desk, your guide to pond dipping, Arundel Castle this day will be first built, right through to WW2. A fantastic opportunity for Damsel & Dragon Boat Safaris, an opportunity to meet a variety A fun experience for all the the community to celebrate the Butterfly trail and Creepin’ of historical characters, such as family! From 11am. the achievements of our local a Knight, Pirate and Medieval school children. Starts at 10am Crafts that are all included in your Surgeon, and try a variety of 3 – 4 June Denton Gardens and finishes at admission ticket price of £6 per activities, including archery (8 Oskar’s Amazing Adventure approximately 11am at Steyne child, and under 4’s are free. years plus) and fencing. Certain Komedia, 44-47 Gardner Street, Gardens. Free event. 24 – 25 June days will also include falconry, Brighton, BN1 1UN. 0845 293 848 17 – 18 June Emergency Services face painter, story teller (please An original, heart-warming play check website for details). Please for young children and their Medieval Tournament Weekend Amberley Museum, Station Road, note - for have-a-go fencing or families. Full of good humour, Arundel Castle and Gardens, Amberley, BN18 9LT archery a lower age limit of 8 adventure, music and song, Arundel, BN18 9AB. 01903 882173 Come and see the fire engines years of age applies and a height this is the perfect treat for your The Knights, Squires, and from the Museum’s own restriction may also apply. Normal little ones (and you!). Desperate Men-at-Arms of Raven Tor collection and a range of visiting admission applies. for some fun, Oskar leaves his Living History Group will meet snowbound little house on top in a Medieval Foot Tournament exhibits. All emergency services 3 June of the mountain to try to find a representing England, France, are welcome to demonstrate Smugglers of Rottingdean friendly animal to play with. But Poland and Denmark. With their vehicles at this spectacular Hove Museum, 19 New Church Road, where are all the animals? And competitions using a variety event (exhibitors must book in Hove, BN3 4AB. 03000 290900 why does Oskar have to wait till of weapons, the free-style advance). This toy theatre show brings spring to play his favourite game fighting of the combatants will 25 June you the amazing (hi)story of again? Ages 2-7. Adult £8, child be the nearest reproduction of smuggling in our very own tournament combat seen outside Go Dad Run £5. Hove Park, Goldstone Crescent, Rottingdean. So buckle your of the 15th century. With a Story Hove, BN3 6LX, 01273 292704 swashes and join Touched 7 and 21 June Teller, falconry display, have- The 2017 Brighton & Hove Go Theatre for a tale of sea, secrecy Skips After School Club a-go-archery (over 8's) and a Dad Runs are a series of 5K and and adventure. Admission £3 per Theatre Royal, Brighton, BN1 1SD tented encampment of crafts and 10K runs for men and boys to child. 5 years and over. Shows at See listing on 17 May for details. displays. Normal admission. raise awareness of and funds for 1, 2, 3 & 4pm (20 minute show). 8 – 10 June 18 June important men’s health charities. 3 June South of England Show Race For Life 5k Registration opens at the Event Kids Run Free South of England Showground, Steyne Gardens, Worthing, BN11 3DW Hub 9am and will close ten Victoria Park and Playing Fields, Ardingly, RH17 6TL Women uniting with one purpose, minutes before the start of each Worthing, BN11 4BD The South of England Show is to raise money, to beat cancer. run. 5K run will start at 10:30 am. See listing on 6 May for details. celebrating its 50th anniversary. Go along to support thousands of Enjoy the very best of the British women young and old and then 1st & 2nd July 3 June countryside, food & drink and stroll around the stalls that will Aaaand it’s back! Twig the Gladiators! outdoor entertainment for the be hosting1st various & 2nd activities July and 10am-5pm Pixie Family Funsplosion whole family. On the day prices: refreshments. 11am start. Komedia, 44-47 Gardner Street, Adult £21, OAP/Student £19. 10am-5pm Brighton, BN1 1UN Children under 16 go free if 1 and 2 July Twig the Pixie has lost his accompanied by an adult but Spectacular displays Gladiators marbles! Help him find them in must have tickets. of Gladiatorial contests this hit stand-up comedy show Fishbourne Roman Palace, 11 June for all ages with stories, music, Chichester,at Fishbourne PO19 3QR Roman Mid Summer Steam Show Throughout the weekend, re-enactment group Britannia will be audio visuals, interactive bits Palace. and surprises. A family favourite Amberley Museum, Near Arundel, depicting the sorts of people found in the fighting arena, such as returning to the Fringe for two BN18 9LT. 01798 831370 soldiers who found themselves on the wrong side of mutinies, criminals shows only, this is your chance Popular event returns showcasing or Cheerslaves, born your to fight. favourite They will be on hand to talk about their to meet a real pixie from The large scale and full size steam equipmentGladiator and fighting and decidetactics and there will be displays at 12 noon engines on display around the and 3.30pm of gladiatorial contests in the formal Roman garden. There Enchanted Forest. 4:30pm (Doors the fate of the loser. 3:45pm). Running time 60 min. Museum. An opportunity to see will also be lots of hands-on activities for the whole family, including a Tickets £5 (+£1 fees) some nostalgic engines in steam. chance to net some wild beasts, join the gladiator school and get a fake Standard admission applies. wound. Don’t miss this amazing event for the whole famiy!

14 | Tel: 02393 117 561 | [email protected] PO19 3QR 01243 785859 www.sussexpast.co.uk May half term fun at Super Camps Super Camps' fabulous new Multi-Activity programme based at Brighton and Hove Prep School allows children to get involved in some great activities. As well as Save taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, 15% Super Camps runs "an excellent programme of well- planned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment". Camps run from 30th May – 2nd June. Save 15% with code FAMILIES17. Book online at supercamps.co.uk

Blending Family Homes By Sarah Macnaught

When overnight stays turn into long term arrangements and two families are coming together under one roof, it’s time A storage unit is not a solution – it’s a to plan how you share a home without financial burden, letting each other’s stuff get in the way. that can escalate for decades. Add up the monthly cost for a unit and multiply it by 36 months, not the 3 months you Agree that this Digitize your excess Duplication of goods think it will be in there. Still blending is a paperwork; old legal will mean another worth it? The UK has more downsizing project documents, divorce cull, so make an than 50% of all storage units even if the new home is files, archived reports – these inventory of household items in the EU. We have an bigger. Every single person can all be professionally and pet needs to reduce the and go 50/50 on choices. unhealthy imbalance when it uploaded onto hard drives comes to holding on to volume of their possessions, and the cloud. not just the family moving in. When it comes to possessions. sorting through stuff, This is too often overlooked Photograph school the reality is often Downsizing and curating and can make new families projects and pick the worse than it seems, so plan belongings is a very feel overwhelmed, creating ‘keepers’ carefully. time for this. And lots of bags. rewarding experience for unnecessary relationship Limit the art hoard to one box Even a tidy linen cupboard families coming together. The challenges. per child. can produce a dozen bin bags emotional relief and physical freedom after letting go of Both families need for charity. At first, feeling Create boundaries in excess possessions is worth to spend time in overwhelmed by the stuff that the new home that the effort for a happy and their own homes comes out is normal – after help everyone get healthy new home. decluttering and sorting that first trip to the charity on; no toy clutter creep into through every cupboard and shop you begin to feel the the parents’ bedrooms, no box … choose only the things positive effects. Clients often sports kit in the kitchen etc. Sarah Macnaught is a that will bring happiness into tell me; “I cannot believe the Professional Declutterer and the new home. switch from nauseatingly Consider girls’ and Home Organiser based in overwhelmed to confidently boys’ only London. She works to help Donate or gift as getting rid of years (decades bathrooms clients make decisions about much as you can. even) of unwanted items.” (assuming you have more their belongings and getting Use community Getting help from a than one bathroom); a highly stuff sorted. Find her at right- websites, charity shops and professional declutterer can successful rule as I grew up size.co.uk and follow her on offer items to friends. make an enormous difference. with eight siblings! Twitter @RightsizeHQ

www.familiesonline.co.uk | 15 1631-HEV-Edwardian-Life-2017-87x130-Families-AW.indd 1 04/04/2017 10:00 Immerse yourself in Wakehurst’s wonderful woodland festival Woodland crafts | tree climbing | storytelling | archery 27 – 29 May

Ten minutes’ drive from Haywards Heath For details visit kew.org/wildwood