076 PARENTING
Kids’ corner
Spring time
A packed programme of activities will greet families at Kent Life Heritage Farm Park this half-term, from 10th-18th February, when the award-winning attraction, near Maidstone, will play host to a variety of entertaining shows in the Big Top, all of which are included in the regular
ticket price. And while there may be a chance to see the sheep lambing and meet the newborns, children can also cosy up with some of the smaller furry friends in Cuddle Corner, get involved in animal feeding sessions, and burn off some energy in the large indoor soft play area. • Visit
www.kentlife.org.uk
© PHIL HOUGHTON It’s no ordinary dog’s life
Based on the bestselling children’s book of the same name, the delightful Dogs Don’t Do Ballet is brought to the stage by acclaimed Little Blue Monster Productions – and comes to the EM Forster Theatre in Tonbridge on 11th February. Biff is not like other dogs. He
doesn’t do dog stuff like weeing on lampposts or scratching his fl eas, or drinking out of the toilet. No, Biff likes moonlight and music and walking on his tiptoes. You see, Biff doesn’t think he’s a dog – he thinks he’s a ballerina! Suitable for age three and above. • EM Forster Theatre at Tonbridge School, with shows at 11.30am and 2pm. Tickets, £10, from
www.boxoffi ce. tonbridge-school.
co.uk or call 01732 304241.
The name game
Nearly 3,500 pregnant women across the country who are expecting babies during 2018 have revealed their selected baby names in a new survey conducted by Emma’s Diary (
www.emmasdiary.co.uk). Harry (meaning army, to rule,
lord of the manor) was cited as the number one choice for baby boys, while Olivia (meaning olive tree) has hit the number one spot again as the most popular name for baby girls in 2018. Other names ranking in the top three most popular for the year ahead included Noah and Oliver (for boys) and Isla and Lily (for girls). Showing signs of more current
royal infl uences, George and Charlotte also made the top 20 names for 2018 with other royal favourites for boys such as James, Henry and Arthur also making the grade.
www.indexdigital.co.uk
There’s plenty for all the family to see, do and enjoy this spring half-term, meet Biff the dog with a difference, the pick of the names for 2018, plus local news and buys
Sophie Astin
Explore Emmetts
Emmetts Garden at Ide Hill, Sevenoaks, is waking from winter hibernation early this year, just in time for half-term. This fabulous National Trust property includes a new hot air balloon-themed family trail. Or, for just £1 from 10th-18th February, follow Willo-the-wisp around the garden to discover the story of the Elf Mound (suitable for ages fi ve-10). The wild play area is packed with balance beams, dens and even a teepee. Baby changing and bottle warming facilities are on site. • For more information, visit www.
nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden
© National Trust Images/Chris Lacey
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