Taking the stress out of festivals

LISA SALMON FINDS OUT HOW TO KEEP KIDS SAFE AND HAPPY AT EVENTS THIS SUMMER

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FESTIVAL season is upon us and if you're taking your family, there's much more to plan for than just enjoying the music with a beer in your hand.

Although festival enthusiasts say it's great to take kids with you to soak up the wealth of family entertainment on offer at the events, there's no doubt that parents need to plan a family festival trip like a military operation to keep everyone happy and safe.

Taking kids to festivals is "about creating those magical moments that happen when families step out of their normal routine and into something extraordinary together," explains Sharon Reuben, family programme booker at Latitude Festival (Henham Park, Suffolk, July 24-27), which offers familyfriendly activities across three dedicated areas.

Camp Bestival (Lulworth Castle, Dorset, July 31-August 3) also offers a wealth of entertainment for kids, including soft play, sandpits, circus performances and theatre shows.

Emma Scott-Child, who works with Camp Bestival and has attended for many years with her own kids, says: "If the idea of camping at a festival with kids in tow fills you with sleepless dread, then don't fear... but there are things you need to know to ensure you have the best time ever."

Here are their tips for a stress-free festival with the kids...

BEFORE YOU GO

1. CAMP AT HOME

Camp Bestival founder and former Radio 1 DJ, Rob da Bank, says: "It's a good idea to put up the tent in your house so children can get a feel for where they'll be sleeping. And do take the time to convey the magic of sleeping under the stars - this is sure to excite them."