Feature Writing/Research

Jill has been researching and writing feature articles for much of her journalistic career. She has tackled subjects as diverse as warble-fly infestations, self-defence, drinks cartons, canal boats, bone disease, food allergies, and naturism. She has never had any problems talking to people to find out their stories, or had to abandon an article for lack of information.

Thai Boxing

I didn't realise I'd be talking to a celebrity when I went to see this class. Master Sken, who's Sitnarong Headquarters are in Stockport, choreographed the fight scenes in the 1989 Batman film, also appearing as Jack Nicholsons sidekick.

The first to greet me was an inquisitive young boxer dog named, appropriately enough, 'Thai'.

Master Sken's wife Kay takes the women's class - self defence based on Muay Thai techniques - on Wednesday mornings. Kay, who wouldn't look out of place on Gladiators, was patiently teaching kicks, blocks, punches and padwork to a small group of women. All were working hard. There was no shouting, just the occasional grunt as the pads were kicked or punched.

Classes concentrate on discipline, awareness and avoidance techniques. Fitness is not essential to start this aerobic sport, and you'll know some ways to protect yourself from the first lesson. Of course, you're not restricted to the women's class, you can join mixed classes or do competition work.

Special equipment needed? None, except perhaps a minimal bounce bra! Classes start from £2.50.

First Day Blues

Preparation for school begins when a child is born. No, not the rush to get his or her name on the list, but the choice of name itself. Is it easy to spell? How might it be shortened? Will your little one be teased because of his name?

School is a big step for both of you. OK, you’ve been to mums and tots, and watched (with gritted teeth!) how she’s got on with other kids. She can dress herself and take herself to the loo... but you can never be fully prepared because school is different from anything either of you has ever experienced before.

Your ‘baby’ will be away from you for six whole hours. He will be drawing, painting and having fun. He’ll be having dinner with his classmates. He’ll be carrying a tray of food and drink through a crowded dining hall. He’ll be using a knife and fork. He may need the loo. Will he be too nervous or absorbed in what he’s doing to ask? How will he find his coat at playtime?

Relax. What’s new to you both is old hat to the teacher. There’ll be help with trays, cutlery, shoelaces and so on, often from other mums who work part-time at the school. Youngsters will be given opportunities to visit the loo, and first-year coat pegs are usually identified by picture.

What you can do is be prepared for grouchiness at the end of the day. Your little one may be so glad to see you she’ll burst into tears. She’ll certainly be tired and may well be hungry. Bring a healthy snack with you when you come to collect her - and don’t be late!

Have tea early, and take time to sit with your little one whilst she eats. She may not want to talk to you about her day, but she needs to know you’re there for her.

A balanced diet and plenty of sleep will help boost her immune system - being at school will expose her to lots of new germs.

As for you, don’t be one of those mums who whisk around the house and then say: "I don’t know what to do with myself.".

Take up a hobby, learn some new skills or set up in business (there are loads of opportunities nowadays). Failing that, you could always start a part-time job at the school...