May 19, 2012

Not Just Headphones… A Perfect Learning System

storyphones mp3 audio learning system

Flying Start chats to Simon Johnson, Managing Director of Ameeca, to find out more about StoryPhones, the multi-award winning MP3 digital audio learning system for children.

If you are looking for a  powerful and practical learning tool to make listening easy and help your children develop their language, communication, listening and literacy skills, then look no further than StoryPhones.

StoryPhones was developed from an original idea created by Early Years teacher Eleanor Johnson.  The whole concept of an MP3 digital audio player grew out of her experience of using audio equipment in the classroom. This idea of creating an audio system which did not depend on a power supply, was difficult to break and which offered flexible and adaptable access to listening struck a note with her husband Simon, a lecturer at Durham University, who decided to help develop this fantastic idea into a useable product.
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Baby Shower Host Celebrating New Arrivals and More

baby shower host

In the space of six years, Baby Shower Host have made serious inroads into the baby shower market. Flying Start delves further into their success and charts their progress from loft and garage to mainstream premises.

Baby Shower Host is owned and run by Leena Jacobs. Like so many other companies, it sprang from a moment of inspiration and has blossomed into a thriving business that now numbers several celebrities on its customer list.
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A+ for Aplay’s Outdoor Equipment Installations

aplay playground structures equipment

Although only established in 2010, Aplay have built a reputation for exceptional standards of groundwork and safety surfacing projects as well as the installation of outdoor play equipment. We talked with co-founder, Diane Robertshaw about the business.

Aplay are based in Otley near Leeds and began life with just two members of staff, one van and one order. In less than two years, the business had progressed so well, even in the current economic situation, that Diane and co-founder James Thompson now employ seven members of staff with three vehicles and have a growing customer base not just in the Leeds area but nationwide.
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MUM! I’m Famous

personalised stories name in a book

Name In A Book has been specialising in creating personalised story books for children and adults since the year 2000. Here, Flying Start takes a closer look at this unique and individual gift idea and the story behind its evolution.

After searching franchise businesses on the internet, Graham Warren found an ideal solution for his business needs and what followed was the creation of personalised Stories, right from his home in Epsom.  Can you imagine starring in a real life book as a child? “MUM! I’m Famous!” is the kind of excitement that Graham’s books bring into families nationwide.
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Baby Sensory

babysensory

Flying Start discovers how and why Baby Sensory grew to become a global, award-winning business in such a short space of time

The Baby Sensory concept was conceived in 2002 by Dr. Lin Day who observed how babies responded to activities designed for their older siblings. As a result of this observation, she decided to design a programme specifically for babies.

In 2006, Day decided to take the Baby Sensory concept, which had evolved over four years, and make it more widely available. Along with her husband, she entered into a partnership with Keeley and Ian Sharland and Baby Sensory was formed.
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Saving Lives

life savers first aid

Commitment and experience have earned Life Savers First Aid With a reputation as the most recognised trainers in the field

It is a legal stipulation that work places have first aiders in place who can provide potentially lifesaving care in the instance of an accident or emergency. However, sending employees on a course can prove expensive; a cost that small and medium-sized businesses could do without.

Based in Cardiff, Life Savers First Aid provides expert first aid training throughout the UK. The team consists of 20 qualified instructors with a combined experience of over 200 years.
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Sunshade Services

Sunshade Services

Recommendations and repeat orders have meant that Sunshade Services has grown no matter the weather

Established in 2008 by managing director David Brough, Sunshade Services is a Midlands based company that serves the whole of the UK.

The company specialises in the supply of bespoke designed all-weather shade structures for schools, nurseries and colleges, which are its strongest markets, as well as care homes and hotels, among others, so that existing outdoor space can be utilised throughout the whole year.
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The Smurfs™ Just Got Bigger!

Smurfs 2nd post

The world’s largest inflatable Smurf landed at Tower Bridge…

Fans of the franchise got to meet Papa Smurf and Smurfette whilst having their picture taken next to the giant, 40 foot structure.

Sony Pictures Animation’s live-action animated feature, which stars Neil Patrick Harris, Hank Azaria, Sofia Vergara, Jayma Mays and the voices of Katy Perry, George Lopez and Jonathan Winters, is  available on Blu-ray 3D™, Blu-ray™ Double Play, DVD and digital on 5th December 2011.

To enter our competition to win a copy of the DVD  please click on the link: http://www.flyingstartparenting.co.uk/2011/12/win-a-copy-of-the-smurfs-dvd/

Buggy Pitstop Come First for Servicing

buggypitstop

Revolutionising the buggy and pushchair market, Buggy Pitstop have seen and filled a huge gap in the market and plan a nationwide expansion. Flying Start reviews the business from conception to future dreams.

Until recently, owners of a buggy, pushchair or car seat brought out of storage, or showing signs of daily wear and tear, were forced to either give it a quick wash down, or invest in a brand new version. These were the only options.

Until now.
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The Perfect Family Retreat

langstone

The Rogers family has prided itself in constant re-investment in the Langstone Cliff Hotel since its opening days 64 years ago in 1947. Here Flying Start takes a closer look at the story behind one family’s amazing work and achievements in creating this perfect family retreat in the heart of Devon.

The Langstone Cliff hotel set in 19 acres of child-friendly woodland wasn’t built in a day, nor was it built in a year. In fact the Rogers have been building the hotel over the past 12 years!
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