Families Birmingham and Solihull July/Aug 2011

Birmingham and Solihull

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2011 ISSUE #1

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School’sout–but

don’t stop learning!

Take a perfect picture

SummerFun

FREE

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JULY-AUGUST 2011 ISSUE 4

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk


School’sout–but

don’t stop learning!

SummerFun

Take a perfect picture


Are you lively, energetic and likeworking with children?Then this could be for you.

My Leaps and Bounds franchise business in Sutton Coldfield and surrounding areas is ripe for development.

Leaps and Bounds by Tumble Tots (UK) Ltd is a pre-school setting programme which is a progressive physical and movement programme for children from walking up to five years. Full training is given to all instructors to deliver the programme of structured but versatile lesson plans.

Would suit teacher; anyone working in early years setting, or just someone who finds working with children fun and has the get up and go to run their own business and set their own goals.

Cost of franchise for thisexisting business is £2,500. To find out more about this

opportunity call Kirsty Lydeardon 0121 355 7789 or

e-mail [email protected]

A Rewarding BusinessOpportunity for Sale

Clubs andClasses

News

Education

Super Dads

Summer Fun

Parenting

Baby Show

What’s On

Holiday Snaps

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4/56/7 8/9

10/11

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14/1516

In this Issue...4/5

6/7

10/11

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2 Issue 4

We take care preparing this magazine but the publisher and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor its consequence.

Next Issue: Advertisers: book your space now for ourSeptember/October clubs and classes issue.Call 0758 352 6056or e-mail [email protected] Monday, August 1.

Hello and welcome to the summer holidays issue of Families Birmingham and Solihull.

As schools break up for summer, we have plenty to keep you busy. In fact there are so many summer workshops and fun events – including many free – that we have not been able to include them all on our What’s On pages. Just log on to www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk to see our extended list and we promise you will find something to do every day of the holidays.Missed the Baby show at the NEC? Families went along and can tell you what grabbed our attention. Also in this issue read some down to earth parenting advice in ‘A Dad’s Point of View.’

Finally – just a reminder – six weeks might seem like a long time at the start of the holidays, but time flies when you are having fun. Plan ahead and sort out all those back to school essentials to avoid that mad, last-minute, post-holiday dash to school uniform and shoe shops. I have never quite managed it before, but that’s my resolution for the new school year. I’ll keep you posted. Happy holidays.

Families Birmingham & SolihullP.O. Box 6204, Stourbridge, DY8 9DN.

, EditorWendy Flynn

Contents

Front page picture by photo artist Abby Wilkes. Abby won the West Midlands Master Photographer Award for her work with children two years in a row.She specialises in photographing children and families creating art from life’s special moments. Contact Abby for more information:07966 867306. www.abbywilkes.com

Design: www.MattWaltonDesign.co.uk Printed by: Warwick Printers, Caswell Road, Leamington Spa Copyright Families Birmingham and Solihull, July 2011

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk Clubs & Classeswww.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

EdgbastonPriory Club

For more informationcontact [email protected]

or call 0121 440 2492

Edgbaston Priory Club off ers tennis courses and coaching for ages from

3 upwards, and to all levels. Come learn, have fun, improve

your game, join a team andmake some friends.

Could you be the next Andy Murray or Venus Williams?

Monday to Saturday during term time Weekdays in holiday time in our Kids Camp.

Keep fi t and have fun!

Issue 4 3

Driving without a licence – and it’s legal!Does your 11-year-old dream of getting behind the wheel? Well, with the Young Drivers scheme at the NEC in Birmingham they can do so legally before they even qualify for a provisional licence.

Madness? No, this scheme is designed with safety rather than boy racers in mind. It’s sponsored by Admiral Insurance, Seat cars and Pirelli who will happily put youngsters of 11-17 behind the wheel of a dual-control car, the only restriction being that they must be 1.5 metres in height.

According to statistics 1 in 5 newly-qualified drivers crash within 6 months of passing the test and newly-qualified drivers and their passengers account for one in five road deaths in the UK. So the more practice hours clocked up by young drivers before they take to the roads, the safer all of us will be.

Lessons for young drivers will be held at the NEC on all Saturdays in July, and most Saturdays in August. To find out more call 0844 371 9010.

Rock on!Check out the Rock Project’s ‘summer bootcamp’ being held in Solihull this summer or join their regular Friday sessions.

The Rock Project allows children and teenagers to learn guitar, bass and drums by playing in a real band, something that most “bedroom musicians” can only dream about.

Richard Finlan says: “It’s a fun way to play a musical instrument because the sessions are much more than a traditional music lesson.Not only do children learn musical skills (Rock grades 1-8) but they also get to play in a real band. These are music lessons that children want to do. If there had been a Rock Project around when I first got involved with music as a child, I’d have jumped at the chance to join.”

The Rock project is geared for 7-11 and 11-16 year olds with 2-hour after-school sessions on a Friday at Hatchford Brook Youth Centre at Lode Lane in Solihull. A summer bootcamp and concert is also planned. Call 0845 226 3318.

Victorian tea parties and yucky body partsWhether you want to join in a Victorian Tea Party at Winterbourne House, make a wax work model of a yucky body part at the Barber Institute, design your own jewellery at the Museum of the Jewellrey Quarter, or make a play in two days at Solihull Arts complex, we have more than a hundred activities to keep you busy this summer, including many which are free. Check out our full What’s On listing at www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Thrills and SpillsEdgbaston Watersports will be

holding open days on July 31 and August 31. Book your place now for a

two hour session of canoeing, kayaking, sailing or windsurfing.

Call 0845 310 0280 or www.edgbastonwatersports.co.uk

Have-a-go kids Sign up now for Whizz Kids sessions at Ackers Adventure outdoor pursuits centre this summer. Children 8-16 can have a go at skiing, archery, climbing and canoeing in the space of a 1.5

hour session. Call 0121 772 5111.www.ackers-adventure.co.uk

© 2011. Wilcook Ltd

Want your childrento learn how to cook

the fun way?We run cooking parties,workshops and clubs.

If you would like to join usin getting children

excited about cooking,knowledgeable about

ingredients, whilst having funthen get in touch.

email [email protected]


4 Issue 4

Open air theatre There is something magical about open air theatre in a park setting – and this summer you can take your children along to see Snow White performed at the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham or Pinocchio at Brueton Park in Solihull.

Head to Brueton Park to see Pinocchio on Tuesday, July 26, at 7pm and book your tickets early if you want to be certain of enjoying the outing whatever the weather - the first 336 seats sold are guaranteed a seat in the Theatre if rain stops play.

Take a picnic lunch along to the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham before the 3pm performance of Snow White on Thursday, August 4. Advance tickets cost £8 for a child and £10 for an adult.

Older children and teenagers might enjoy Quantum Theatre’s staging of Great Expectations on July 17, at 7pm, or Chapterhouse’s performance of Sense and Sensibility on Wednesday, July 27, at 7.30pm. Tickets for either show are £10 in advance and £12 on the day.

Teddy Bears’ picnic Give your teddy bear a day out. Bring him to the Teddy Bears’ picnic at the Botanical Gardens in Birmingham on Wednesday, August 24, between 12 and 3pm for games and entertainment. Special admission into the Gardens of £6.50 adults, £3 concessions and, as a VIP, your teddy gets in free!

Sunday Shakespeare Join the Shakespeare Express steam train for a fun family day out in Stratford. Catch the train (Sundays only) which runs between

Birmingham Snow Hill, Henley and Stratford between July 3 and September 11. Adult fares from £17.50 and child from £10. Further details www.vintagetrains.co.uk

FREE Funky Monkey play Try out the soft play centre at Fort Dunlop which is offering FREE play sessions all day on Thursdays during term-time. Whether you have a pre-schooler, or a child in school, you can take advantage of the offer any time between 10am until closing time at 6pm. The children will have a fantastic time monkeying around and you can sit back and relax in the bright and airy café while watching them play. There is also a free car parking pass (see page 8 in Families magazine). which you can just cut out and display

on your window. Wow, all in all, a super offer!

News www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk


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Take a leap into a new career Are you fit and energetic and do you like working with children? If so this could be the perfect job for you.

Former teacher Kirsty Lydeard, who has been running the Leaps and Bounds franchise in Sutton Coldfield, is on the move so she is looking for someone to take on the business.

Leaps and Bounds is a physical play programme for pre-school children designed to get them moving and develop their agility, balance and co-ordination. Kirsty has been running the programme in nurseries in the Sutton Coldfield area for the past five years on a part time basis.

She says: “I am a trained primary school teacher but I loved the flexibility of running my own business and being able to control my own hours. It fitted in well with bringing up a family and I was still working with children and seeing them grow in confidence, which I loved.

“You don’t have to be a teacher or nursery assistant to take on this job or need any PE qualificiations, but you do need to enjoy being with young people. Full training is given in how to deliver the programme and make it fun for little ones.”

Being a franchise means there is always someone on hand at head office for support and there is also a network of other franchisees to bounce ideas off, which is always useful to someone setting up on their own.

Kirsty adds: “I was only doing the job part-time but the business has the potential to earn £500 a week for someone delivering the programme in 10 nursery or early years settings.”

The franchise is available for £2,500 as Kirsty’s family is moving out of the area and she wants to pass it on to someone who will develop it further. Call her for a chat on 07976 204999 if you would like to know more.

Summer training camp for little kickersIf your tiny tot has his (or her) sights set on being the next Beckham, sign them up for some summer training camps in Solihull and Shirley with Little Kickers.

The four-hour fun sessions for 3-6 year olds will be held in the mornings during the school summer holidays.For full details call0121 744 9730.

Saxon GoldIf you have missed seeing the Staffordshire Hoard, catch up with it at Tamworth Castle before it heads to America. Forty magnificent pieces will be on display at Tamworth Castle between August 27 and September 18. The £3.3 million collection of gold and silver Anglo Saxon military artefacts, was declared treasure on 24 September 2009. There will be free entry to the castle for the three weeks of the exhibition – but you must book your place for free entry.E-mail: [email protected]

Issue 4 5

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk News

www.familiesbirmingham.co.ukSummer Fun www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Can you influence how well your child does academically? Research suggests that parents’ attitude is a key factor and that the most

consistent predictor of a child’s achievement is high parent expectations.

School’s out but children keep on learningEducation www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

6 Issue 4

6 High Street, Kings Heath B14 7SW 0121 444 2573

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From school starters to sixth form …we supply all your school uniform needsSchool ties, blazers, sportswear, gymkit. swimwear

• Plain blazers from £19.99• Shirts/blouses from £3.99• Skirts or boys trousers from £4.99• Polo shirt from £2.99• Sweat-shirt from £3.99• School Ties from £4.00“For quality, value and service, they hit the mark every time. I’d definitely recommend them.”

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Issue 4 7

From reading to children, practising times tables, playing shop so they get to understand money, or involving them in weighing and measuring with cooking and practical activities at home, there is much you can do to keep their brains ticking over this summer.Involve them in a reading challenge at your local library – it’s not just fun, it’s also a sure-fire way of preventing the reading skills slippage that teachers see at the start of a new academic year. Log on to educational websites and play a half hour maths game with your child as often as you can. The key is to get involved in home learning activities and make it fun.

Workshop for ParentsYou could also go along to a free workshop for parents who want to support their children’s learning, which is being held this month on July 22nd.It is organised by a Ladywood community church group, Yeshuah International Ministries Centre, and is open to all parents across the

city. The day is supported by education publishers McGraw-Hill with keynote speakers from schools and education organisations.Organiser Rennie Mudzi says: “We know parents’ involvement is the most important factor in a child’s learning so we will be teaching parents strategies they can use to help their child succeed.“You need to make time to support your child, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Our workshop will show parents how they can be creative in what they provide and how they teach their children.Talking to your child and spending time with them is important. So too is understanding how they learn best as not all children learn in the same way.”Parents attending the workshop will be given support packs to take away with them to help them put workshop ideas into practice at home.Places are limited and you will need to book. For further information, or to book, call or text 0777 599 6653 or 0776 352 0584,or e-mail [email protected]

Academic ExcellenceFor parents worried that their child is not keeping up in school, the summer holidays can provide the perfect opportunity to address the problem. Natalie Jones, of Academic Excellence, understands exactly the dilemma some parents face when they need outside support to make sure their child achieves their full potential.“In one school year my daughter had slipped from set 1 to set 4 in Maths and the school didn’t seem to be able to help. I tried a number of tutors but, with little progress, it was costing a fortune. Then a friend introduced me to an excellent tutor and within half a term my daughter was doing well again.”

That experience prompted Natalie to set up Academic Excellence which runs academic support groups for all ages between

5 and 16, and will celebrate its first anniversary this September. It offers one-to-one tuition but the main

focus is on small group tuition of no more than six students.“The students are less daunted in a small group than in one-to-one and, because we always have a teacher and a teaching assistant in each group, the quality is high,” says Natalie.The support groups can help students catch up with work, or prepare for 11plus entrance exams, or GCSE maths, sciences, and languages.

Natalie stresses that while the support groups can be very effective to help catch up, it isn’t just

crisis management.“We try to get people to understand the ethos

that if you do that little bit extra throughout

your school life, that is when you are really going to get results. It is sad if people end up cramming too much because then they are really under pressure and that’s wrong. On the other hand if they do a little and often by the time they come to 11plus or GCSE exams, it’s a doddle.”To speak to Natalie about summer or term-time support for students, call her on 07956 536 475.

School’s out but children keep on learning

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TEL 0121 454 2858 | MOB 07543 668261 | www.academicexcellence.org.uk

For more information please call 0121 454 2858 or email

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To find a class near you please call or email:

Educationwww.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Norfolk HouseNurseryNorfolk House School

Norfolk House Nursery

4 Norfolk Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3PS Tel. 0121 454 7021 www.norfolkhouseschool.co.ukNorfolk House School is an independent preparatory school for children aged between 3 & 11 years.

3 Norfolk Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3PSTel. 0121 452 1485 www.nhnursery.co.uk

Norfolk House Nursery is a day nursery for childrenaged between 3 months & 4 years

Super Dads www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

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Tel: 01922 682 232

8 Issue 4

Lee Bates, who writes “A dad’s point of view” column for www.superdads.co.uk , reflects on his experience of parenting.

1. There’s no such thing as quality time I learned early on in my parenting that the often-quoted notion of “Quality Time” was bunk. The only thing that matters to our children is “Quantity Time” since the only time they will open up is when they are good and ready. You can’t schedule time with your children the way you might with a business appointment and the moments that will surprise you the most are when you least expect them. There is no such thing as quality time, only quantity time.

2. Gratitude About five years ago, I survived a car crash that should have left me dead or worse. A man I greatly respect, Dennis Prager, has often said that the single most important ingredient to happiness is gratitude. That accident reinforced, very dramatically, his words to me. Too often we are living our lives waiting for that something we think will make us happy rather than counting the blessings right in front of us.

3. My kids aren’t me, in spite of sharing the same DNA I learned a valuable lesson about parenting before I became a parent, when I was a Big Brother to a little girl. We shared nothing in common. I learned to bond with her in spite of our differences and found that experience to be the best prep course for parenting my own two boys, who also turned out to not fully share my interests. Too many parents think that just because their children share their DNA (which of course is not the case in adoption) that their children should share their same interests. All this does is set a pattern of hurt and disappointment for both child and parent. Don’t do this. Support what your child is interested in rather than push him or her to do what you want them to do.

4. Words that hurt, words that heal The power of words can be as harmful as the power of a fist. With the advent of modern technology, we’ve seen the damage that a simple text can do to a middle school child when something hurtful

is spread around about him or her. And, like a leaf blown in the wind, it can’t be retrieved. It is incumbent upon us as parents to teach our children to watch what we say, what we write, and what we text and to model good behavior in this regard and not gossip and not disparage others with casual disregard.

5. Best friend or best parent The job of being a parent is not being our children’s best friend, yet too many parents confuse the two and try to be their children’s buddy. To achieve this buddy status, they forego being their best parent. That may mean not being strict, not holding high standards, or relaxing them when their children pout or throw a tantrum. Being the best parent you can be may sometimes mean your son or daughter doesn’t like you at a given moment. So what. Being liked isn’t your job. Being their best dad or mom is!

A dad’s point of view

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk Super Dads

If a rewarding job with true security that provides you with the work/life balance, flexibility and control over your own destiny sounds appealing – contact Carolyn Rose today.You can work part time, around your existing work or family commitments and there is no financial investment.Find out how Carolyn’s children can always be her priority – working part-time hours to suit her family commitments – you too could change your life.

Contact Carolyn for a FREE information pack on07789 916278 or email: [email protected]

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Issue 4 9

6. The family dinnerI read somewhere that the children from families that share meals together suffer

fewer problems than those that don’t. The family dinner is essential glue for my family and something that

belongs as a ritual in every family. As our children grow

older and their friendships and extracurricular

activities intrude more and more upon their

lives, it is easier to allow the family dinner to drift

away. We parents must insist on having a family

dinner at least once a week, period.

7. Walk a mile in my shoes

Empathy is a simple but very important word. How often do we pass a homeless person without a

thought or glance? Or hear a friend’s problem and promptly forget about it? Until you really do as the song says and

walk a mile in someone’s shoes, you can’t really know what he or she may

be going through. Too often we are caught up in our own problems, big

or small, to pay attention to someone else’s problems, which I suggest,

are usually bigger than ours. A little reflection upon someone else is a

good thing to do now and then. It is good for your soul.

Article courtesy of www.superdads.co.uk Superdads, helping men

everywhere make the transition into fatherhood and beyond!

10 Issue 4

Whether you are off on a foreign holiday, taking a ‘staycation’, or simply staying put, we have some great ideas for making

sure you have a fab summer. Children love days out but what they really value is having fun with their parents and, with a little bit of creative thinking, that doesn’t have to cost a lot.

Picnic in the park with friends Kids really can get as much pleasure from this as from heading to a theme park for the day. Get them to help plan and organise the picnic; write the shopping list, help prepare the sandwiches or rolls, and decide what to take along with them. Fly kites, play badminton; have egg and spoon races; feed the ducks; play tag, and enjoy the simple things in life.

Water fight in the gardenAn activity which is best kept for a warm, sunny day and preferably not just after you have mopped the kitchen floor, because it will need doing again. But hey, it’s fun! Get out the water pistols, garden sprinklers or water hose; use sandwich bags for water bombs; set up some base camps and then set the teams on a mission to be the first to reach the enemy camp. Much shrieking, much laughter, and happy, sopping children almost certainly guaranteed.

A Treasure hunt – or crack the secret code dayGreat for a rainy day. Come up with ten age-appropriate clues and hide them around the house and in the garden (weather permitting) along with a few sweets. Give the children the first clue to set them off on the trail and let them work as a team to solve the puzzles leading to the treasure trove. Or hide pictures around the house with each picture corresponding to a letter and get them to work out the code words.Log on to www.scavengerhuntforkids.com for ideas.

Camp out overnight in the garden If you don’t have your own tent, borrow one from a friend who camps – not too big, ideally, and not too difficult to assemble. Once it’s up, encourage the children to decorate it with all they need for a long, lazy day in the garden – cushions, blankets, books, iPods. Then join them for a night under canvass. It might not have the luxury of a 5 star hotel, but the kids won’t care – and their excitement will make up for your lack of creature comforts.

Summer Fun www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Open all year (inc Bank Holidays) Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pmTel: 024 7639 4433 www.hoar-park.co.uk

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Make it a summer to remember!Make it a summer to remember!

Edgbaston Watersports

Call 0845 310 0280 for further informationwww.edgbastonwatersports.co.uk Follow us on facebook

Sailing, windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking Junior Academy every Sunday from

10am-12.30pm (paddlesports)and 1.30-4pm (sailing/windsurfing)

Pay and Play every Tuesdayfrom 5.30-8.30pm @ £15 a sessionOpen Days – July 31 and Aug 31.

Have a go at any water sport.Booking essential.

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Call 0845 310 0280 for further informationwww.edgbastonwatersports.co.uk Follow us on facebookCall 0845 310 0280 for further informationwww.edgbastonwatersports.co.uk Follow us on facebook


I ssue 4 11

Be adventurousTry something new. Zipwire through a jungle challenge, go skiing or tobogganing, take to the tennis courts, learn how to make a movie; try your hand at water sports or go rock-climbing. Whatever it is, try to introduce your children to at least one activity they have never tried before.

Build a DenDen building is as natural as breathing to kids. Head to the woods and build a den or find some big old cardboard boxes and get them started in the garden. Failing that book them on the Dens and Dragons or Down in the Dell events run by Selly Oak rangers in August where they get to build a den that can withstand a dragon. (call 0121 464 8729).

Visit a pick-your-own farmHead out from the city for a day in the countryside. Children love picking their own fruit, taking it home and making jam and puddings.Check out your nearest farm online atwww.pickyourownfarms.org.uk

Get on your bikeDust off your helmet, pump up your tyres, and head for a spin through a local park, along a canal bank, or along a cycle track. Explore your neighbourhood in a whole new way. It’s fun and it keeps your family fit. If you’re not sure of the local routes log on towww.sustrans.org.uk

Back to natureFrom mini-beast safaris, to Bat Walks, Butterfly Walks, Buzzing with Bees or Mini Gardening – park rangers across Birmingham and Solihull are hosting a range of events for children and families this summer.Check out www.birmingham.gov.uk/whatson orwww.solihull.gov.uk/events

DaycationPlan a day away whether you head to London to see Big Ben, go to Drayton Manor theme park, head to the beach for a day of sand sculpting, or visit an historic property. Children have free entry all summer to Birmingham historic houses at Aston Hall, Blakesley Hall, Soho House and Sarehole mill. Or an annual National Trust family pass costs just over £41 for a family with one adult and £66 for a family with two adults.

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk Summer Fun

BOTANICAL GARDENS

B I R M I N G H A M

Westbourne Road Edgbaston B15 3TR www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

FAM07

Beautiful Gardens - 7000 Plants - Birds Glasshouses - Gift Shop - Gallery - Tea Room

OPEN DAILY 0121 454 1860

Flower Shows Theatre Sunday Bands

Summer events 10 July Lady Sings The Blues 21 July King Lear 4 Aug Snow White Children’s production 24 Aug Teddy Bears’ Picnic Sunday Family Activities 3 July Outside arts 10 July Pond dipping 17 July Teddy Bear Trail 24 July Parachute Games

Make it a summer to remember!Make it a summer to remember!

www.familiesbirmingham.co.ukParenting

12 Issue 4

Clubs & Classes Directory To advertise here call 0758 352 6056

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Youth Theatre Group, Age 6+ St Thomas’ Church,

Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA Telephone: 0121 722 3761

MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE

Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 ½ +Branches in Yardley and Shirley

Telephone: 0121 744 1422 www.dubarrieschoolofdance.co.uk

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RIALTO DANCE ACADEMY Salsa, Belly-dance, Cheerleading Waltz, Jive, Street, Break-dance

1 Shirley Rd, Acocks Green B27 7XU Call 07725 000 732 or find us online

BABY SIGNING

Sutton Coldfield and Lichfield From 0 to 2 years

Telephone: 07851 627 651 www.tinytalk.co.uk

TINYTALK BABY SIGNING

THEATRETRAIN SOLIHULL Dancing, Acting & Singing

Classes for 6-18 years Call Sara on 01675 443540 www.theatretrain.co.ukTHE COMPANY THAT LOVES TO PERFORM

Sutton Coldfield Drama, Dance & Singing in commercial

and musical theatre styles Call Lynn: 01283 814 092

or email: [email protected] www.razzamataz.co.uk

DIZZY DANCERSVarious ages and SEN welcome Based in Highgate, Birmingham.

01527 870889 www.dizzydancers.co.uk

ADVERTISE

YOUR CLUB ORCLASS HERE!

MUSICThe Rock Project (Solihull)

7-16 yr olds (2 Hour Sessions) GUITAR, BASS or DRUM lessons.

Tel: 0845 226 3318 www.therockproject.com

1-to-1 drum tuition, City Centre locationRock School grades 1-8. Ages 4 upwards.

Tel: 0121 503 5849 www.timtandlerdrumschool.co.uk

Chatter Matters Yes, we know there are children who never seem to stop talking and we know what it is like when your toddler first discovers the

word why? But the truth is that being able to communicate well gives your child a head start in life. Antoinette Hayre of Talking

Tots offers top tips to get your little one communicating with confidence.

1)From an early age, tell your baby what you’re doing, whether it’s changing his nappy or making his supper.

2)Make sure if you ask your child a question you leave time for her to respond. Those first babbles are your baby’s way of communicating.

3)Don’t anticipate your child’s needs. If she points to the fridge, ask her if she wants milk or juice.

4)Read as much as you can. Books and stories help build your child’s vocabulary.

5)Be descriptive. If your child points to a tree, talk about how big it is, what colour it is, what sound it’s making.

6)Don’t correct children’s speech. Don’t tell your child when he gets something wrong, but don’t use baby talk yourself.

Instead, use the correct words and gradually he will begin to copy you.

7)Sing Songs – especially those with noises and actions. Encouraging your child to join in will develop their

vocabulary.

8)Use simple games to introduce colours and numbers – As you tidy up suggest he finds the

red toys and you will find the yellow toys.

Talking Tots classes are running in Knowle & Solihull. Contact Antoinette Hayre on

07817 079875. For TinyTalk baby-signing classes in Sutton Coldfield and Walmley, contact Lisa Mathias on 07851 627 651.

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk Baby Show

Issue 4 13

Day Nursery SchoolsQuality Pre-School Education and Care

• Ages 3 months to 5 years• Small group sizes• Open 8.00am to 6.00pm• Mature qualifi ed staff• Home cooked meals• Ofsted approved• CCTV and Door-entry security• Grant Funding processed• Teachers specializing in Music, Dance & French (subject to availability)

Day NurserySchoolsQuality

Pre-SchoolEducationand Care

106 Wake Green RoadMoseley, B13 9PZ.Tel: 0121-449-3673106 Wake Green Road

Moseley, B13 9PZ.Tel: 0121-449-3673

19 Woodland Road,Northfi eld, B31 2HU.

Tel: 0121-475-841619 Woodland Road,Northfi eld, B31 2HU.Tel: 0121-475-8416

• Ages 3 months to 5 years• Small group sizes• Open 8.00am to 6.00pm• Mature qualifi ed staff• Home cooked meals• Ofsted approved

• CCTV and Door-entry security• Grant Funding processed• Teachers specializing in Music, Dance & French (subject to availability)

Grasshoppers DayNurseries

Loving, caring and quality childcare in homelysettings

Erdington - 0121 384 8096Edgbaston - 0121 455 6026

Open 7.00am – 6.15pmHarborne - 0121 427 5040

Open 7.30am – 6.15pm

Tel: 07766 714926

www.bumpaliciousmaternity

.co.uk

Passionate about gorgeous clothes

for your perfect maternity wardrobe

Families magazine went along and found some products we loved. Trunki travelIf you have been stung for £70 for a week’s hire of a toddler booster seat by a car hire

company (as I have), then you’ll love the innovative BoostApak from Trunki travel products. This ingenious and lightweight little car booster seat folds into a travel backpack which you can take on the plane with you – and it has space for books and toys. It’s ideal too for taking to a school or nursery if another Mum is picking up your child, and at £45 it can work out cheaper than hiring one for a week

abroad. Check out, too, Trunki’s new limited edition suitcase – the tot-tastic Quinn which can be packed, pulled, towed and ridden and retails at £34.99. www.trunki.com

Pipila portable travel steriliserWhat do you do if your baby or toddler drops their soother while you’re out and about. Picking it up and wiping it off doesn’t really cut the mustard hygiene-wise, and a tired toddler crying for their pacifier is not a soothing experience. Pipila has developed a tiny orb-shaped portable UV steriliser designed to solve the problem and kill the germs within 3 minutes without the need for water or chemical solutions. Result – one pacified toddler, one happy mum. Retails for £19.99 at Kiddicare and www.Rosebudbaby.co.uk

Happy HopperzFamilies magazine met former city trader Victoria Jones whose business has been “bouncing along” since its

launch last year when it sold out all its Happy Hopperz stock within the first 3 hours at the Baby show.

These delightful hopperz are designed with tiny tots in mind – and they love them. They retail at £21.99; are stocked by Argos and Homebase,

and there is a choice of colours and designs - cows, reindeers and dogs.www.happyhopperz.co.uk

Pixie and PunkChildren will love the Pixie and Punk soft cotton t-shirts with a detachable button-on soft toy peeking out of the pocket. Comes with matching cotton bag, and available with matching photo story book featuring their soft toy. www.pixieandpunk.com

Bumpalicious MaternityBirmingham entrepreneur Amanda Rees who

featured in our Mums in Business feature last issue showed off her chic but affordable Bumpalicious maternity wear on the Babyshow catwalk.

Check out her growing range atwww.bumpaliciousmaternity.co.uk

Nappycakes Speak to Worcester Mum Helen Todd Wood if you are looking for a baby shower or a new baby present which is both stylish and practical. Her family-run company Cherish babies supplies baby hampers and “nappy cakes” which make a great alternative to flowers on a

maternity ward, and she can deliver her gifts for you too. Nappy cakes from £24.99 and hampers from £49.99.

www.cherishbabies.com

Missed the Baby show at the NEC?

www.familiesbirmingham.co.ukWhat’s On www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

THEATREAND SHOWSWe Will Rock YouFuturistic musical story of a group of young rockers in need of a hero. Featuring classic Queen tracks.Venue: Birmingham Hippodrome,Hurst Street, B5 4BT.Date: July 5-Aug 13Time: Evenings 7.30pm Weds and Sat matinee 2.30pmTickets: £21.50-£45To book tel: 0844 338 5000www.birminghamhippodrome.com

Great ExpectationsOpen Air TheatreVenue: Botanical Gardens,Westbourne Road, Edgbaston B15 3TR.Date: July 17Time: 7pmTickets: £10 in advance; £12 at gate. Don’t forget to bring low chairs or blankets.To book tel: 0121 454 1860

Abba The ShowAbba-style clothes optional for this nostalgic rendition of Abba’s top hitsVenue: Solihull Arts Complex Theatre, Central Library, Homer Road, B91 3RG.Date: July 22Time: 8pmTickets: £16.50To book tel: 0121 704 6962

PinocchioOpen air stage production of the ever popular children’s taleVenue: Brueton Park, Warwick Road.Date: July 26Time: 7pmTickets: £7 adult and £6 child in advance: £8 adult and £7 child on gateTo book tel: 0121 704 6962

Sense and SensibilityOpen Air production of Jane Austen’s classicVenue: Botancial Gardens, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, B15 3TR.Date: July 27Time: 7.30pmTickets: Tickets £10 in advance (24hrs) £12 on the day. Don’t forget to bring low chairs or blankets and the show goes on whatever the weather! Tel: 0121 454 1860

Snow WhiteOpen air performance of Show White especially for the younger Theatre-goerVenue: Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, B15 3TR.Date: August 4Time: 3pmTickets: Children in advance £8, adults £10. Children on the day £10 and £12 adult. Family ticket (2A & 3ch) £32 advance and £35 on the day. Tel: 0121 454 1860

Much Ado About NothingRain or Shine Theatre presents ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ William Shakespeare’s tale of love, jealousy and the “merry war” of the sexes!

Venue: Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, B15 3TR.Date: Aug 17 and 18Time: 7.30pmTickets: Tickets £10 advance (24hrs) £12 on the day. Don’t forget to bring low chairs or blankets and the show goes on whatever the weather. Tel: 0121 454 1860

Swan Lake – Guangdong Acrobatic Troupe of ChinaA mix of classical ballet and acrobatic featsVenue: Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street, B5 4TB.Date: Aug 23-27Time: Evenings 7.30pm and Sat matinee 2.30pmTickets: £15.50-£45Book: 0844 338 5000

Bugsy MalonePerformed by young people from across the West Midlands taking part in a Stage Experience projectVenue: Alexandra Theatre, Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DS.Date: Aug 25-27Time: 19.30Tickets: £18.00-£20.25Book: 0844 847 2302

Top HatStrictly Come Dancing winner Tom Chambers stars with Summer Strallen in the legendary Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers Hollywood musical from the 1930’sVenue: Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street, B5 4BT.Date: Aug 30 – Sept 10Time: Evenings 7.30pm; Wed matinee 2pm and Sat matinee 2.30pmTickets: £17.50-£42.50Book: 0844 338 5000

OUT AND ABOUTBirmingham Historic Houses and Sarehole MillChildren under 16 have free entry to Birmingham’s Historic Houses – Aston Hall, Blakesley Hall, Soho House and Sarehole Watermill.Venues: Aston Hall, Trinity Road, B6 6JD; Blakesley Hall, Yardley, B25 8NN; Soho House, Soho Avenue, B18 5LB; Sarehole Mill, Cole Bank Road, Hall Green, B13.Opening times: 12noon-4pm Tues to Sun. Closed Mondays except bank holidaysTickets: Adults £4 for historic houses;£3 Sarehole Mill.www.birmingham.gov.uk

Big Brum Buz TourBe a tourist for the day and get to know your city with an open top bus tour. Hop on Hop off tour.Venue: Departs from corner of Colmore Row and Waterloo Street, Victoria Square.Dates: Weekends from April 30-September 25Times: 10.30am; 12.30pm and 2.30pmTickets: £12 adults; £5 children; £20 family ticket (up to 3 children aged 5-15)Tel: 0121 427 2555

Also check out online the Big Brum Buz Open Top History tours to Birmingham Historic Houses. Adults £3 and children free. First Sunday of the month.www.birmingham-tours.co.uk

Black Country Living MuseumFizzog Theatre Company will be entertaining visitors during the summer holiday with their unique brand of Black Country humour and street theatre. Roll hoops, play hopscotch, play parlour games and take part in craft-making in the old school-room.Venue: Black Country Living Museum, Tipton Road, Dudley.Date: Open Daily. Holiday activities:July 30-September 4.Time: Adults £13.60; Children 5-16 £7.10; Unver 5s free; Family ticket (I adult, 1 child £18.50; Family 2 adults and 2 children £35.80. Tel: 0121 557 9643www.bclm.co.uk

Dudley ZooA zoo with hundreds of animals set around an 11th century castle. Meet the Meerkats; have a close encounter with a sealion; see Pingu the 20-year-old Humboldt penguin and friends; and much more.Venue: Dudley Zoo, 2 The Broadway, Dudley, DY1 4QF.Date: DailyTime:10am-5pm. Last admission 4pmTickets: Adults £11.30; child £8.90;under 3s freeTel: 0844 474 2272www.dudleyzoo.org.uk

Shakespeare ExpressTake a family day trip on a steam train to Stratford on a vintage train. You could even have Sunday lunch in the premier dining carriage.Venue: Catch the train from Snow Hill, Moor Street or Tyseley and on to Henley on Arden and Stratford.Date: Sundays from July 3-Sept 11Time See website for time-tableTickets: returm from £17.50 adultand £10 child.www.shakespeareexpress.com

Family Activities with a Green themeFamily friendly activity for children including outside arts, July 3; bugs and beasties scavenger hunt, July 10; teddy bear trail and storytime (teddy bear fancy dress optional), July 17; parachute games and activities, July 24; make sunglasses, July 31; pond dipping, August 7; make a mini herb garden, Aug 14; make a fairy wand and wizard stick (fancy dress optional), Aug 21; pond dipping, Aug 28Venue: Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, B15 3TRDate: Every SundayTime: 1-4pmTickets: Adults £7.50; children 5 and above £4.75; under 5s free. Family £22.Tel: 0121 454 1860www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

Mini Beast SafariA family event - discover the smaller residents of Lickey Hills and build a bug house to take home.Venue: Lickey Hills Country Park, Warren Lane, Rednal, B45 8ERDate: July 3Time 2-4pmFREE: Booking essential. Tel Rangers on: 0121 447 7106For a full list of ranger activities in Birmingham this summer seewww.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Shirley CarnivalAction packed family day for all the family with stalls and entertainment.Venue: Shirley Park, Stratford Road,Hurdis Road, B90.Date: July 9Time:12.30-4.30pm

Knight SchoolHave you got what it takes to be a knight. Learn the art of sword fighting and combat skills. Family workshop culminating in final battle.Venue: Blakesley Hall, Yardley, B25 8RN.Date: July 10Time: 12-4pmTel: 0121 464 2193

Family Sunday at the ArcheryFun day of free art and tennis activities for all ages and abilities. Have a go at tennis; join in arts and crafts activities including badge-making and photography; bring along tennis memorabilia and have it valued.Venue: Edgbaston Archery and Lawn Tennis Society, 14A Westbourne Road, Edgbaston.Date: July 10Time: 10am-4pmTickets: FREE, DROP IN. NO NEED TO BOOK.

Family Fun DayAn afternoon of entertainment and activities for all ages.Venue: Knowle Park, Longdon Road, Knowle, B93.Date: July 16Time and further details TBCwww.solihull.gov.uk/events

A Call to ArmsPicnic at Weoley Castle; explore the ruined medieval moat and follow the nature trail. Find out about medieval weapons and combat with sword fighting and archery

ThinktankScience MuseumDino Jaws exhibiton including lifesize moving models of dinosaurs, fossil evidence, and a virtual dinosaur dig. Dino themed activities including dinosaur storytelling for younger children and pre-historic object handling sessions.Venue: Thinktank Museum, Millennium Point, Curzon Street, BirminghamDate: Thinktank Open daily. Dino Jaws exhibition until September. Dino-themed activities weekends and school holidays.Tickets: Adult: £12.25; Child £8.40; Family of 4 £39.00. Includes free entry to Planetarium.To book call 0121 202 2222www.thinktank.ac

14 Issue 4

Batman LiveBatman, sidekick Robin and the Batmobile take on arch villains Catwoman, the Joker and The Riddler in live stage show featuring acrobatics, daredevil stunts and illusionVenue: The NIA, King Edward’s Road, B1 2AADate: Aug 17-21Tickets: £20-£35Book: 0844 338 8000





www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk What’s Onwww.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

BIRMINGHAM BUS TOURS 2011Dates: every Saturday & most

Sundays from 30th April to 25th September 2011

Meeting point:corner of Colmore Row

& Waterloo Street,Victoria Square

Tour times: 10.30, 12.30, 2.30

THE BIG BRUM BUZ IS AVAILABLE FOR

PRIVATE HIRE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

BIRMINGHAM TOURSEmail: [email protected]

Tel: 0121 427 2555 / 078051 15998www.birmingham-tours.co.uk

SPECIAL FAMILY TICKET OF £20 FOR 2 ADULTS& UP TO 3 CHILDREN AGED 5 TO 15 YEARS

Edgbaston Watersports Thrill Seeker dayTry something new and have a go at one of the water sports at Edgbaston Watersports open day. Canoe, Kayak, windsurf or sail in a 2-hour taster session for adults and children.Venue: Edgbaston Reservoir, Ickneild Port Road, Edgbaston, B16 0AADate: July 31 and Aug 31Times: 10am-12pm and 1.30pm-3.30pmTickets: Adults £15; children 7-16 years £5; Family ticket £35.Booking essential as places are limited. Call 0845 310 0280 for more informationwww.edgbastonwatersports.co.uk





Issue 4 15

demonstrationsVenue: Weoley Castle; Alwood Road, B29.Date: July 17Time: 1-4pmFREETel: 0121 464 2193

Summer Activities at Brueton ParkSummer crafts and outdoor exploration in the nature reserve for children aged 4-9. Includes Nature’s Fairies; Fairytales and Folklore and more.Venue: Parkridge Centre, Brueton Park.Date: Every weekday in school holidays.Time:10.30amTel: 0121 704 0768 for further details or log on to www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

3D Tennis Matches and other activities at the BarberDesign and create a three dimensional micro tennis stadium complete with players, net and audience from cardboard, foil and other interesting materials. (For further summer activites at the Barber check out www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk)Venue: Barber Institute of Fine Arts, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston,B15 2TSDates and time: July 26, 11am-1pm; July 27, 2-4pmTickets: £8 per child (includes story-telling). Booking essential. To book tel:0121 414 2261 or [email protected]

Seaside Spectacular!Oh, we do like to be beside the seaside. Traditional seaside entertainment in the park, including donkey rides, a Punch and Judy show and more. Craft activities; and fairground rides.Venue: Shirley Park, Stratford Road, Hurdis Road, Shirley.Date:July 27Time: 11am-3pm

Sheldon County FairA free fun family day out with activities for all the family, farm animals, arena events and craft stalls.Venue: Sheldon Country Park, Ragley Drive, Church Road, Sheldon, B26 3TU.Date: July 31Time: 12-5pm

Life Below Stairs; Garden Fun, Creative Crafts and William Morris Design

It’s Mrs Nettleford’s Tea Party! Join the fun in washing linen, polishing silver, collecting eggs and dressing up for the big event. Also become and eco-warrior; try your hand at craft and designVenue: Winterbourne House, 58 Edgbaston Park Road, B15 2RTDate: Tea PartyAug 2-4; Garden Fun, Aug 9-11; Creative Crafts, Aug 16-18;William Morris Design, Aug 23-25Time: 10am-12pmAges: suitable for ages 6-12Tickets: £6 and must be pre-booked.Call: 0121 414 2759or e-mail [email protected]

Junk and Jewellery Join artist Jolene Smith to create a piece of artwork to take home. Experiment with old buttons and metal to make your own unique piece of jewellery. This workshop is suitable for 5 years upwarrds. Further summer activities at the Museum listed on www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk including Perky Pets, Make your own Ring, and Bamboo beads.Venue: Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, 75-79 Vyse Street, Hockley, B18 6HA.Date: Aug 4Time: 11am-1pmTickets: £2.50 per person. Booking Essential. Tel: 0121 554 3598

Crafty Fun, Aspire Dance, Wiggle and Giggle Dance and Art MakersA range of holiday workshops for children.Venue: Solihull Arts Complex, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RG.

Date:Aug 4 and 11Times: VaryAge- suitable ages for 4-7Tickets: Booking essential.Tel: 0121 704 6962

Through Tunnel Canal TripTwo hour trip along the entire length of the Dudley Tunnel (2888 metres long) and also visit Dudley’s famous Limestone Mines and Caverns. Includes an audio visual show in Little Tess Cavern, music and light show in Singing Cavern and a chance to experience the old fashioned art of ‘legging’ the boat through the tunnel.Date: Aug 7Time: 10.30am departTickets: £9.75 adult; £8.75 child.Tel: 01384 236275www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk

A Play in Two DayFor budding actors, dancers or artists. Work with professionals to put together a play in 2 days.Venue: Solihull Arts Complex Studio, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RGDate: Aug 16 and 17Time: 10.30amAge: 8-14 yearsTickets: £25. Booking essential.Tel: 0121 704 6962

Dens and DragonsCan you build a den that will withstand a dragon? Den building and dragonfly spotting on the common. Will involve pond dipping. Wellies recommended. Bring a packed lunch, drinks and wear sun protection.Venue: Billesley Common, meet at Yardwood Road entrance.Age: Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.Date: Aug 18Time: 11am-3pm.FREE. Tel: 0121 464 8729

Down in the Dell – DensPlan and build a water proof shelter with your friends. Materials provided but bring what you can and don’t forget your towel!Venue: Muntz Park. Meet by playground at Gristhorpe Road.Date: Aug 24Time: 1-3pmFREE .Tel: 0121 464 8729

Teddy Bears’ PicnicGive your teddy bear a day out. Bring him/her to the Gardens for a Teddy Bears’ Picnic,

games and entertainment.Venue: Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, B15 3TRDate: August 24Time:12-3 pm.Tickets: Special admission into the Gardens £6.50 adults, £3 concessions and your teddy comes in free!Tel: 0121 454 1860www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

Staffordshire HoardIf you have not yet seen the Staffordshire Hoard, catch up with it at Tamworth Castle where more than 40 pieces of the Saxon gold will be on display in the Great Hall.Venue: Tamworth Castle, The Holloway, Ladybank, Tamworth, B79 7NADate: Aug 27-Sept 18Time: 10am-5.30pm. Last admission 4pmFREE admission to the castle during three weeks of exhibition. Pre-booking is essential for free admission tickets. Tel: 01827 709581 or e-mail [email protected]

Lots more What’s Onand Events listed online.

Capture all those holiday memories on camera. Award-winning photographer Abby Wilkes gives you some top tips to

help you take that perfect holiday snap.• Don’t worry if your own children won’t pose for you, it’s because they’re YOUR children. Try swapping with your friend; let them photograph your children and you photograph them, usually they respond much better!”

• It’s not necessary that children always look right into the camera.

• Keep it short and simple; children love doing different things and get bored very quickly, keep changing what you do to make it fun, eg the location.

• Don’t photograph children against busy backgrounds like flowers and trees, use something neutral like a painted door or the beach.

• Photograph them in the shade so they don’t squint in the sun. If there is no shade on a beach for example, get someone to hold up a towel over them to block the sun.

• Use a zoom lens so you can get further away, and hopefully the children won’t notice that you are taking photos.

• With very young children, give them something to focus on, for example ‘make a cake’ with leaves and a stick to ‘stir’.

• Pretend they are going on a ‘model shoot’ and make it into a game - they will be much more responsive.

• The best light is either in the early morning or the late afternoon.

A three hour family photo session on location with Abby costs £95. To find out more call Abby on 07966 867306 or log on towww.abbywilkes.com

Picture perfect

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk Holiday Snaps

SCHOOL HOLIDAY SPORTS CAMPS FOR 6 -15 YEAR OLDS AT SAINT MARTIN’S SCHOOL, BRUETON AV, SOLIHULL, B91 3EN

Days run 9am – 3pm. “Extra Time” available 8.30am – 4.30pmCombining multi-sports and expert coaching.

Summer: 18th-22nd July | 25th-29th July | 1st-5th AugCONTACT US: 0844 335 8217 WWW.SPORTACADEMIES.COM

SOLIHULLAT SAINT MARTIN’S

school holiday sport camps for 6 - 15 year olds





www.ackers-adventure.co.uk

For further details please call 0121 772 5111 or visit our website now!!

Ackers Adventure, Birmingham B11 2PY ∙ 0121 772 5111

FANTASTIC FUN

AND GREAT VALUE

FOR MONEY

ACTIVITIES FOR

ALL THE FAMILY• After School Clubs • Whizz Kids School Holiday Club • Birthday Parties • Thrillseeker Taster Days

Climbing, Canoeing, Archery, Skiing, Jungle Challenge, Tobogganing and much more....

Documents

Families Birmingham and Solihull July/Aug 2011