Abc hampshire winter 2013

The local information magazine for parents in Hampshire

• FROM BABIES TO BIG KIDS •

Winter • Issue 19

www.abcmag.co.uk

November 2013 - March 2014

Packed full of essential information • places to go • things to do • ideas for you •

WiN WiN WiN competitions WiN WiN WiN prizes galore WiN WiN WiN

If you are interested in saving money call Gail on 0800 458 0618 or 07985 989 or email gail@easysaveandspend.co.uk and quote ABC

www.easysaveandspend.co.uk

538

The local information magazine for Hampshire parents with young children - from babies to big kids!

THE ABC HAMPSHIRE TEAM Editor Rachel Boyle Advertising Sales Hilary Maguire Jane Norris Social Media Manager Stacey Renphrey Website BarkWeb Ltd ABC Magazine Hampshire is operated under franchise and independently owned by Oast Publishing Ltd PO Box 2780 Brighton BN1 5QR Tel: 01273 552842 Fax: 01273 542257 Separate editions of ABC Magazine are produced in: Sussex, Surrey, Kent, Berkshire, Hertfordshire and Hampshire.

For further details please see www.abcmag.co.uk or email: sussex@abcmag.co.uk surrey@abcmag.co.uk kent@abcmag.co.uk berkshire@abcmag.co.uk hertfordshire@abcmag.co.uk hampshire@abcmag.co.uk No part of this magazine, including the advertisements within it may be reproduced, in part or in whole, without the express permission of the editor.

Whilst the greatest of care is taken to ensure that the information within the magazine is correct at time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.

Please call (01273 ) 5 52842 regard ing adv ertising or dist ributio n of ABC M agazine Hamps hire.

As usual we have got plenty to tell you about, so curl up on the sofa with a nice hot cuppa and this shiny new issue of ABC - a chance to catch up on the latest news and tips, as well as finding out what's going on for families in Hampshire this winter. As it gets chillier outside, time to wrap up warm and get out into the fresh air! Take a look at our Diary of events starting on page 20 to find some great family events which Hampshire has to offer this winter.

We are very proud to have been asked, once again, to be the media partners for the BabyExpo at the Surrey Sports Park in Guildford on Sunday 24th November, it promises to be an amazing event, with all the excitement we have come to expect from BabyExpo (please see ad on the outside back cover).

Take a look at our Christmas feature starting on page 23 to find out about all things festive and in particular the fantastic Swan Queen's Ball at Mottisfont near Romsey.

As always we've got hundreds of pounds worth of competition prizes to be won - all available to enter by post or on-line via our website, remember you've got to be in it to win it!

Remember ABC Magazine is designed by parents for parents, so we are always delighted to hear from you whether you have an experience to share or you'd like to tell us about any top parenting tips to pass on to other ABC readers, just get in touch and let us know!

Do remember to 'friend' us on Facebook, or 'tweet' us on Twitter, and don't forget we are available online, have a look at www.abcmag.co.uk, click through on the link and you're away!

Last but not least, we have some very exciting news - ABC Magazines has won the NatWest Small Business of the Year Venus Award! We are very proud and very happy and hope it shows we are getting it right for both our advertisers and our readers!

Wishing you all a great Christmas and health and happiness throughout 2014!

★ ★ ★★

Cover Star

Rachel Boyle Editor

YOUR CHILD COULD BE OUR NEXT COVER STAR! See page 32 for details

★ ★★ ★ Meet our handsome Cover Star 3 years old Will

★

Photograph by Tickled Frog 07545 234155 (see ad on page 31)

★

www.abcmag.co.uk

★

hampshire@abcmag.co.uk

I can't believe we are already approaching the end of the year. The leaves have been falling off the trees and the nights are quickly drawing in, the lovely summer seems so far behind us. Now we are busy getting ready for Christmas yet again, and looking ahead to the new year!

★ ★

01273 552842

Hello and welcome to the winter 2013 issue of ABC Magazine Hampshire.

www.tickledfrog.co.uk

The opinions expressed within ABC Magazine are not necessarily the views of the publishers, but those of individual writers.

ABC is a combination of many peoples efforts and contributions so a huge thank you to you all.

Big thanks also to my husband Iain and my boys, Joe and Charlie, and my mum for their patience, understanding and help, yet again, in putting another issue together.

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

1

Inside this issue...

Lifestyle

With ideas for helping families to get the most out of life, there are interesting articles for everyone.

Have you made a Will?

N

ovember is Will Aid Month. If you haven't made a Will yet, November is the perfect time to do it. A solicitor will write your Will, and only ask for a donation to charity. To find out more go to www.willaid.org.uk

4

Help me, I'm a parent!

9

We're splitting up...

10

Grandparents - financial gurus

Education

12

I CAN's Chatterbox Challenge

Whether you have a baby, toddler or a ‘big school’ child, there’s something to interest you and add to your child’s learning potential.

26

Don't fake it!

26

Bad Santas...

27

You shall go to the ball!

28

Making it personal!

31

Here comes Santa Claus...

33

Holiday decisions

7

Never too young to learn

13

Reading between the lines

15

Educate & entertain this Christmas

16

Exploding volcanoes!

17

Develop maths and literacy skills

19

The importance of nursery rhymes

39

...page-by-page directory

Children in Need

D

on't forget Children in Need on 15th November. Go to www.bbc. co.uk/blogs/childreninneed to find the latest news and information on how you can get involved.

Change a child's life and your own

N

ational Adoption Week takes place from 4th to 10th November.

The British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) can answer many of your questions if you are thinking of adoption. Their website includes the 'Ten Steps of Adoption' , which covers all aspects from making an application to your life together as a family. Find out more at www. nationaladoptionweek.org.uk

make it 1, 2, 3!

A

BC Magazine scored a hat-trick recently by scooping their third major award in twelve months by winning the NatWest Small Business of the Year Venus award.

Rachel Boyle, MD and founder of ABC said "I am so proud of the team and all our achievements. These awards are recognition that we're getting it right. Right for our clients and right for our readers - I'm absolutely delighted for everyone involved."

NatWest Venus Awards, were set up in 2009 by Tara Howard, to recognise the hard work, effort and skill that it can take women to successfully juggle business with other commitments. www.venusawards.co.uk ABC are able to add this third award to their two previous successes - in November 2012 Rachel Boyle was awarded Business Woman of the Year by Johnston Press and in May this year the hard work of the ABC Social Media team was recognised by winning The Purplebiz UK Business of the Day Twitter Award.

ABC make it 1, 2, 3!

www.babyexpobabyshow.co.uk

2 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

Health & well-being

this section.

Your health, and the health of your children, is of vital importance. Take good care of the family with the advice and help of our experts.

34

Having a Christmas baby?

35

Parenting - the hardest things

Out & about For ideas about things to do and discover and places to go across Hampshire, look no further than this section.

20

Diary of events

22

Days our for free

23

Let's go to a baby show!

Back to work Returning to work after having a baby or when the children start school can be a tricky time - get inspiration here.

Numbers that count If you need to know a number in a hurry - hospitals, helplines, libraries, pools, museums and other useful local contact numbers, we've got it covered!

Activities

1

Contact us

For children of all ages, structured activities form an important part of their learning and social development.

38

Helplines and useful numbers

5

50% of children can't swim 25 metres

39

Page-by-page directory

6

Happy and active

40

Leisure directory

29

Want to make a Christmas gift?

40

Parent & toddler directory

WIN WIN WIN Something for everyone to win! Once again, ABC has brought you a whole heap of competitions, with masses of fabulous prizes for you to win...

36

Hampshire for sale!

37

Doing it your way...

on the WEB @

www.abcmag.co.uk direct links to all our advertiser sites...

Check it out!

✷✷✷ ✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷

4

Organised Mum Family Weekly Planner

6

Hammamas cotton towel

12

Buzzbee to the Rescue DVD

Good luck!

18

Help Your Kids With English Book

24

Dream Theater and night light

27

Malory Band

28

Really Giant Poster

32

ABC Cover Star

34

Your pregnancy week by week book

Rules: The act of entering any competition will be taken as acceptance of these rules. The closing date for all competitions is Friday 14th February 2014 unless stated otherwise on the competition. Only one entry per person per competition is permitted. Unless otherwise stated the winner(s) will be drawn out of the hat. No responsibility is accepted for entries which are lost, delayed or damaged in the post. Illegible or incomplete entries will not be accepted. No cash alternative to any prize is offered. All winners will be notified by post or email and will be asked to collect their prize from a local collection point. The editor's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

Unless stated otherwise on the competition, each separate entry should be on a postcard (or similar) clearly marked with the competition name, together with your name, postal address,email address and telephone number. All competitions are now also available to enter on-line - please go to www.abcmag.co.uk/competitions.

If posting entries please send to:

ABC Magazine Hampshire, PO Box 2780, Brighton BN1 5QR

If you are entering a number of competitions by post please put all your entries in one envelope!

If you enter any competition in ABC Magazine, your details may be passed on to the competition supplier.

If you do not wish your details to be used further please write this clearly on each entry.

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

3

Help me, I'm a parent!

So, it's official! Far from feeling threatened by a nanny state intruding on family life, 90% of us believe that all parents could benefit from parenting information and advice.

C

harity Family Lives is recruiting volunteers to support parents and families throughout Hampshire

Specially trained volunteers, who engage with families face to face, play a big part in the charity's work.

"First and foremost, we are looking for parents and grandparents who want to put their energy and wisdom to good Last year, eight hundred and use for a few hours a week! " says seventy one Hampshire parents Claudia Murg, the volunteer called Family Lives 24 hour coordinator for the Hampshire helpline. Calls about branch. "Your ability to children aged under listen actively but in eighteen, ranged a nonjudgmental from concerns Last year, way, to keep strict on how to eight hundred confidentiality deal with and seventy one and keep an challenging Hampshire parents open mind behaviour, about different called Family to bullying approaches to concerns, Lives 24 hour parenting, your to parents helpline... ability to look for the experiencing strengths of the parent feelings of you are working with, and isolation and support the parent to identify their loneliness or serious mental own solutions to their situation, health issues. are the most important abilities we are looking for, in a volunteer" This leading national charity has over thirty years experience working with families to address Thanks to a three year Lottery grant of £281,474, Family Lives their own needs and look for is set to expand its work across their own solutions. "Ultimately Hampshire to help parents we want to promote a shift in and guardians build skills, attitudes so that seeking family support is seen as a sign of strength confidence and knowledge through intensive support, and a readiness for positive workshops and courses. change".

The Hampshire branch of Family Lives works with parents across the county but also has specific projects in Southampton, Eastleigh, Gosport, New Forest and Basingstoke. It offers individual support with trained family support workers, free on-line positive parenting courses in the comfort of your own home, and face-to-face courses and workshops on various topics according to demand.

4 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

Helen Roberts, Area Manager for Family Lives, said: "We are really excited about the opportunity to continue working with families in Hampshire and expand our base of support, thanks to the Lottery grant.

We get referrals from a range of professionals to offer free support to families to improve their parenting and achieve harmony in the family, and thereby raise the achievements and aspirations of children throughout the county".

Other local commissions, such as the grant from the Gosport Education Improvement Partnership, enable specific projects that involve working with all the schools across Gosport, to roll out courses and workshops throughout this school year, available to all parents in the area.

The charity's work has been actively supported by private

companies, like BAA, which this year is funding the training of a new pool of volunteers in Eastleigh.

Family Lives has launched earlier this year a campaign to support one million families nationwide and is appealing for support in kind or volunteering time.

Parents interested in volunteering in Hampshire can email hantsinfo@familylives.org.uk or call 02380 557130.

For confidential parenting support 24 hours a day, call the helpline on 0808 800 2222.

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The planner has a grid layout for up to six people and is packed with clever features including a useful plastic overlay for writing on regular events, reminder stickers, perforated shopping lists, a clip-on pen and a pocket for paperwork.

The Family Weekly Planner retails for £10.99 and is part of the Organised Mum product range which includes diaries, calendars, magnetic fridge lists, diary covers and children's reward stickers.

The full range of Organised Mum products is available to order from www.boxhousepublishing.com or by calling 0845 644 7507.

We’ve teamed up with Boxhouse Publishing to offer 10 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a Family Weekly Planner. For your chance of winning simply tell us how many people the planner can accommodate?

Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found together with the address on page 3.

More than 50%

of children can't swim 25 metres

O

ver 1.1 million primary school children are unable to be safe in and around water.

That’s according for Education to a report by recommends in the With ASA (Amateur current National drowning Swimming Curriculum. amongst the Association) leading causes of and Kellogg’s But a lack of accidental death entitled monitoring by of children ‘Learning Ofsted means the Lesson that schools are and young The Future of not required to people...

School Swimming’, show any evidence which surveyed of their swimming 3,501 primary schools on how programmes. With schools many of their children have increasingly under pressure attained Key Stage 2 swimming to deliver good exam results requirements. It found 51% of there are concerns that headchildren aged seven to eleven teachers and school governors can not swim the length of a are not allocating budget to typical swimming pool (25 support swimming in the metres) unaided.

National Curriculum, preferring to concentrate on academic The report, the largest matters instead. ever investigation into the state of school swimming, With drowning amongst the found that schools are not leading causes of accidental achieving anywhere near the death of children and young recommended level of delivery people in England (according time. The average state school to the Royal Society for the pupil spends just eight hours Prevention of Accidents), and fifteen minutes a year in experts are worried these swimming lessons at school, numbers could increase in which is well under the twenty future if the current issues with two hours The Department school swimming programmes

are not addressed. In 2011 there were four hundred and seven deaths from drowning reported across all age groups, of which forty seven involved children and young people under the age of nineteen years old.

Where schools are achieving high attainment rates amongst their pupils it is attributed to better pupil to teacher ratios, longer lesson times and a higher number of lessons offered. The report concludes that budget constraints in schools and a lack

of auditing by Ofsted to ensure schools are delivering swimming programmes, as set out by the Department for Education, are at the heart of the problem.

Almost 45% of schools stated the biggest barrier to delivering better quality school swimming was budget constraints.

To coincide with the ASA report over a thousand parents of primary school children were surveyed for their thoughts on (continued over the page)

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what Hampshire parents really want to read!

Your advertisement could have been in this space 15,000 times - all for only £150!

That’s 1p per copy!

Can you afford not to be in ABC? Call us now on (01273 ) 552842 to find out how we can make your business grow.

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

5

Happy & active whatever the weather

A

'duvet' day seems very appealing when it is wet and cold outside, and of course, the odd lazy day gives us all a chance to recharge our batteries. However, bad weather isn't really a good excuse for poor exercise habits in the winter - there is still plenty that the whole family can do to keep active; inside and out. and also give them exercise We hear many news reports opportunities, whatever the regarding increasing concerns weather. about children's body image issues. Not all children are The report says that parents sporty in the traditional way, who engage their children in but active play can help to regular physical activity, such increase their confidence and as active play, from beat anxieties about an early age, help their body image. them to develop Make Time 2 ...using all increased selfPlay has written their muscles esteem and a new report and increasing emotional entitled resilience.

'Physical their heart rate Both of these Activity and without even are important Body Image', realising it... which says that factors in children who have developing a body confidence better body image concerns are more likely and ensuring children are to be anxious about taking part better able to cope with external in formal sports. With children pressure about body image as as young as five expressing they grow up. concerns about the way they Play is vitally important, not look it is important that we just to children's physical encourage children to be active development, but to their emotional well-being as well.

In taking pride in what their bodies can achieve, children see their bodies as functional rather than aesthetic, allaying anxieties about the way their bodies look.

Children who are resistant to organised sporting activities should not forgo exercise. Active play provides the same benefits of sports in a less structured, more enjoyable setting, giving less sporty children a chance to participate. Indoor play centres (continued on page 8)

6 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

(continued from previous page)

the state of school swimming.

The research highlighted that despite swimming’s place on the national curriculum just four in ten parents say their child is currently receiving lessons at school.

One in ten parents say their child only swims on holiday presenting clear risks in terms of ability, water confidence and safety - especially when 52% of parents do not think or are not sure if their child could swim to safety if they found themselves in danger in open water. 39% of parents also told the ASA that their child was not in any type of swimming lessons.

The ASA, whose 2012 ‘Save School Swimming: Save Lives’ report laid down a six point manifesto to provide direction for everyone involved in delivery of school swimming, is also urgently calling for the Government to ask Ofsted to include the inclusion and monitoring of compulsory swimming lessons as part of

primary school inspections, as well as offering more training for teachers.

David Walker, leisure safety manager at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), said: “RoSPA is astounded at how bad some of these figures are. Having the swimming and water safety skills to save yourself or others doesn’t come instinctively, it has to be taught. Worryingly, in our work with bereaved parents and coroners, RoSPA hears all too often how parents believed their children could swim, only to find out their abilities were little more than being able to float and doggy paddle. RoSPA supports all the ASA’s recommendations including its call for curriculum swimming and water safety to be a priority in schools.” BAC

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Based on traditional Turkish Hammam towels, Hammamas make fantastic holiday, travel, beach and pool towels and are brilliant as everyday bath towels for use in the home.

The genius of Hammamas is that they are so versatile. What is essentially a lightweight towel or sarong has so many other uses as it can double up as a tablecloth, picnic rug, blanket, wrap or throw.

Hammamas are available in 8 different styles and 50 different colour combinations from www.hammamas.com We’ve teamed up with Hammamas to offer 5 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a towel from the Hammamas Original range, worth £22. For your chance of winning, simply tell us what fabric the Hammama is made from?

Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found together with the address on page 3.

Never too young to learn free part-time early years education

T

he Government funds early years education for some two, and all three and four year olds across the country. These children are entitled to up to fifteen hours a week of free part-time early years education (EYE).

Education places are available in school nursery classes, state or private nursery schools, day nurseries, playgroups, preschools and with accredited childminders who are part of a quality assured network. These providers need to be registered with the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted) as well as being on their local authority's early years education directory as a provider of 'education'.

All children become entitled to the funding the term after their third birthday (or the term after their second birthday if eligible). Education places can be split between two childcare providers. Free early years education finishes the term after the child's fifth birthday.

However, if the child starts school before this time (even if it is on a part-time basis), the free early years education will stop as the child is receiving free education at school. Some early years education providers may not be able to provide the full entitlement of hours so it is important for parents to check with their chosen provider what they offer.

'Standard' and 'Stretched' Early Years Foundation early years education Stage Local authorities have been While children access their supporting childcare providers early years education they in delivering both 'standard' and learn through a range of 'stretched' early years education activities called the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) which offers. Currently the 'standard' offer allows children to access covers birth to five years old. their free fifteen hours per week The EYFS ensures that: early years education • children learn for thirty eight through play All weeks a year • providers work children (the same as a closely with school year). become entitled parents The 'stretched' • parents are to the funding offer enables kept up-tothe term after children to date on their their third attend their child's progress childcare • the welfare, birthday... provision during learning and allholiday periods.

In round development both cases the child will of children with different be able to access a maximum backgrounds and levels of of 570 hours of free early years ability, including those with education per year. However, special educational needs and the 'stretched' offer allows disabilities, are met. parents to spread the cost of any other childcare or early years For parents to access the early education during the year. years education sessions they need to contact the childcare provider they are currently using What about two year olds?

As part of the 2010 Spending or intend to use to ensure there Review, the Government are places available. Parents will announced that the free be asked to complete a claim entitlement to fifteen hours of form for the free sessions.

early years education will be gradually extended to every disadvantaged two year old.

From September 2013 eligible two year olds will receive up to fifteen hours of free early education a week. Parents will need to check the eligibility criteria with their local authority and what services are available in their area. For Hampshire families, go to: www.hants.gov. uk/2-year-old-offer-2 Learning at home Though children will have the opportunity to develop through attending early years education provision, the family home offers a wealth of learning opportunities. Some parents may feel that they are not qualified to be 'teachers'.

However, there is a range of information available about activities that parents can do with their children to support learning. Parents can get advice from their local children's centre or visit useful websites such as www.earlyhomelearning.org.uk or www.foundationyears.org.uk/ parents/ (continued over the page)

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

7

(continued from page 6)

are perfect for energetic play in the winter months. They give children the opportunities to run, jump, climb, bend and stretch in a fun environment.

Children will be using all their muscles and increasing their heart rate without even realising it, because they will be having so much fun. It is also non-competitive, which is very appealing to some children.

Swimming is another form of exercise that can be done in any weather, and is an activity that children of all ages can enjoy.

Once children have learnt to swim, they can have so much fun in the water. If they are old enough and are strong enough swimmers, they can go with their friends, and perhaps enjoy a day at a leisure pool.

Alternatively, you can go as a family; play games in the water and have some races if you're feeling competitive. But be sure to keep it all fun and allow everyone to enjoy themselves.

Outdoor ice skating rinks pop all over the place during the

winter months. Children often whereas others just go through enjoy ice skating because they the grading system and enhance tend to be better than their their skills and fitness. parents! Again, this is good exercise, gets you out in the For those that shy away from fresh air and you will probably sport there are lots of other be laughing so hard at each activities that can get children other's efforts that you won't active without engaging in realise how much of a traditional team sports. workout you've had Going on a nature until you get off trail, a bike ride or ...they the ice. playing in the can still If possible, it park will still have a good is best to have enable children a balance of to reap the self-image, enjoy organised and benefits of being active and non-organised exercise, and have a healthy exercise during they will also lifestyle. the week. enjoy their 'down Organised sport time' so much more. doesn't have to be competitive. Most clubs and Active play is just as important classes for young children aren't as sport in a child's healthy competitive and concentrate development. Play allows a child on having fun. As children to learn about the world around get older, many clubs have them, test boundaries and a non-competitive strand develop the physical and mental where children can go simply skills they will need throughout to keep fit, learn a skill and their lives. Your child may not enjoy themselves. For example, be the star of the football team in many martial arts classes, but they can still have a good children all do the same classes self-image, enjoy being active but those that want to compete and have a healthy lifestyle. BAC have the opportunity to do so,

S

mile Support & Care is a regional charity, founded in 1994 to provide muchneeded help to families with disabled children and young adults living in Hampshire and West Sussex.

The care and support provided varies widely from family to family, from those with children who have the milder forms of autism to those with chronic life-limiting conditions such as cystic fibrosis.

Some parents need a few hours a week to do the weekly shop and perhaps give the child an outing to the swimming pool. For those children with more complex disabilities, Smile’s highly trained staff can provide twenty four hour care involving medicine administration, tube feeding and intensive physiotherapy.

Smile Support & Care is also running an appeal to build a short-break centre in Waterlooville, Hampshire, which will be complementary to the work already carried out on a daily basis by its dedicated staff in communities across West Sussex and Hampshire. The new centre will accommodate two family apartments plus eight specially equipped bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, where children and young adults with severe disabilities can stay with their families or personal assistant.

Smile has now raised sufficient funds for building work to begin, and continues to appeal for fundraising to help meet the ÂŁ3.4m target for the project. Please contact Smile on 02380 616215 or email jess.zubaidi@smilesupport.org.uk to pledge your support.

8 ABC Magazine - Hampshire

(continued from previous page)

I need childcare as well as the free early years education every week.

Is there help with these costs?

There is help available to pay towards childcare costs, such as help for lone parents, teenage parents, working parents or students. This includes schemes such as Working Tax Credit (Universal Credit from October 2013 onwards), for young parents Care To Learn, and employer supported childcare vouchers.

How do I find out more?

The local Family Information Service (FIS) can help parents find suitable early years education providers, advise about their two year old scheme or provide information on what help is available to pay for childcare.

To find your local Family Information Service visit the National Association Family Information Services (NAFIS) website for details: www. familyinformationservices.org.uk .

Please see page 7 for Hampshire based childcare services.

The best start - find your local Sure Start Children's Centre Your local Sure Start Children's Centre is here to support families with children aged under five years. Children's centres offer families a welcoming and supportive place to give their child the best start in life, from pregnancy to breastfeeding, child development, health, parenting and play advice. Get in touch with your local children's centre and find out what they offer - and what's available in your community. BAC For Hampshire Children's Centres visit: www.hants. gov.uk/childrens-centres

...what Hampshire parents really read!

by Nicole Biggs Family Solicitor at QualitySolicitors Clarke & Son

We're splitting up and I'm worried about the children...

I

t is always a sad and stressful time when a relationship or marriage breaks down, and when children are involved things can seem even harder. If you are involved in this situation and are concerned about your legal rights with regards to your child/ children, here are a few facts that may help.

Children come first A Court will only intervene in disputes over children if doing so would be in the best interests of the child, not the parent.

• How capable each parent is of meeting the needs of the child

What orders can the Court make?

Under the Children Act 1989 the Court can make the The welfare of the child is the following orders: paramount concern of the • A residence order - stating with Court. whom the child will live Under the Children Act 1989, • A contact order when making a - stating how decision regarding often the child children, the If no will see the Court will take agreement can be non-resident the following reached following parent, and into account: the CAFCASS sometimes • The wishes report, then there other and feeling is a further members of of the child in the family hearing. light of their • A prohibited understanding steps order • The physical, preventing a parent emotional and doing something, for example, educational needs of the child removing the child from the UK • The likely effect of any change • A specifi c issue order deciding in the child's circumstances an issue about the child's • The child's age, sex, upbringing, or forcing a parent background, and any other to do something characteristics that the Court • A parental responsibility order considers relevant - giving parental responsibility • Any harm the child is for a child to someone, usually suffering, or is at risk of the unmarried father suffering

Please note that it is the child's right to live with a parent, or to have contact with a parent; not the parent's right.

maintenance as part of a Divorce or Separation, and can also help you with any disputes with the CSA.

The Child Support Agency The Child Support Agency (CSA), or Child Maintenance Enforcement Agency, has the power over child maintenance.

The Courts no longer have this power.

Applications to Court An application to Court should only be considered if it is not possible to settle the issue amicably through talking directly to your ex partner, mediation, or negotiation via solicitors. In fact, you will need to demonstrate that you have tried mediation before you can make an application.

The CSA calculates that a 'non resident parent', or the parent who does not live with the children, should pay the following: One child - 15% net income Two children - 20% net income Three children, or more - 25% net income There are reductions for overnight contact, and also if you have other children.

For more information, and a very useful on-line calculator, please visit www.csa.co.uk A solicitor can help negotiate the payment of child

Your solicitor will help you complete the application to Court. The application form will give details of you, your ex partner, the children concerned, and the background to the case. There is a court fee for the application.

Both parties must attend all hearings. Your solicitor will also attend, or they may instruct a Barrister to represent you. All hearings are heard in a Judge's private room, or 'in chambers'. (continued over the page)

QualitySolicitors Clarke & Son

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ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 9

(continued from previous page)

Grandparents are the nation’s financial gurus

B

ritish grandparents are the nation’s financial gurus, according to research from J.P. Morgan Asset Management (JPMAM).

The research polled more than 1,000 of the nation’s grandparents on whether they offer money advice to their grown-up children, and found three-quarters (75%) are happy to share their pearls of wisdom on financial matters. Only 1% of those surveyed said they give their grown-up children money advice all the time, and are actively managing their children’s finances, while nearly one in ten (9%) do so very often, and two-fifths (37%) sometimes give their guidance. Furthermore, almost half of the grandparents polled (46%) either already offer money advice to their grandchildren, or intend to do so in the future.

Those grandparents who do offer money advice to their adult children mostly believe it is well received - a quarter (24%) say it is always received well, and nearly two-thirds (63%) trust that their recommendations are mostly well received. Interestingly, nearly one in eight - or 11% of the grandparents asked - feel their financial guidance is well received only when it involves their grandchildren.

The JPMAM research also asked those grandparents who offered both financial guidance and money which one they felt their adult children valued more. One in six, or 16%, believe their advice is the most valued, while half of respondents say both are valued in equal measure. Almost a third of those surveyed (31%) said they believe their grown-up children value their financial help more than their advice. However, many grandparents actually find it easier to give money than to give advice - with 20% saying it is easier to give advice, compared with 33% who said it is easier just to hand over the cash.

In further research, JPMAM polled parents on their views on accepting financial help and guidance from their own parents.

More than half (52%) say they have accepted money advice from their own parents since they had children, with one in five of those (20%) boasting that their parents give great advice. Furthermore, half (52%) say they have accepted money from their parents - with 6% admitting they couldn’t survive without it.

10 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

They are relatively informal, and the child does not attend Court. Any aspect of the Court proceedings, including any reports, statements, or negotiations should not be discussed with the child. The Court prefers to keep issues regarding children and finances separate. Throughout the Court process the parties are encouraged to negotiate and attend mediation to try and reach an agreement as soon as possible.

At the first hearing the Judge will usually give directions as to how the case will progress. They will assess whether any evidence, statements or reports need to be provided. The Judge will try very hard to get the parties to reach an agreement at this first hearing. If no agreement can be reached, then the Court usually orders that the Children and Family Court Advisory Support Service (CAFCASS) prepare a report. CAFCASS officers are usually trained social workers,

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and their task is to establish the wishes and feelings of the child. Their report usually gives recommendations as to what Order the Court should make in the best interests of the child.

Increasingly, Courts are trying to involve CAFCASS as soon as possible, and therefore there may be a CAFCASS officer present at the first hearing. The officer may then speak to both parties directly in private in order to try and encourage the parties to reach an agreement.

If no agreement can be reached following the CAFCASS report, then there is a further hearing.

This hearing is usually a full hearing with both parties, and often the CAFCASS officer, giving evidence. It can therefore be a lengthy hearing, and can last a day or more. At this hearing the Court will make an order. The Court usually follows the CAFCASS officer's recommendations. This hearing can be costly as Barristers are used, and a lot of preparation work is needed.

Timescale Applications to Court under the Children Act 1989 usually take up to six months. However, this very much depends on the complexities of the issues involved, how long the CAFCASS report takes to be prepared, as well as the level of co-operation of both parties. BAC For further information on Children's Issues please contact Nicole Biggs, Family Solicitor Tel: 01256 320 555, email: nbiggs@clarkeandson.co.uk or visit our website: www.qualitysolicitors.com/clarkeandson

to discontinue statements and replace them with a Health and Care Plan (EHC) available from birth up to twenty five years of age.

special educational needs, you do not delay and seek legal assistance and advice in order to secure the provision required before the new legislation is introduced.

Understanding your child’s SEN needs and understanding the system Our expertise • Statement of Special Educational Needs • LEA’s Refusal for Statutory Assessment • LEA’s Refusal to Statement after Assessment • LEA Ceasing to Maintain Current Statement (funding or provision) • Representation at Tribunal Appeals • School Admissions & Appeal Panels • School Exclusions Legal assistance for your child’s educational needs.The SEN Advice Centre specialises solely in Education Law. Our extensive experience in this area allows you to tap into a great deal of specialist expertise.

• Are you experiencing difficulties securing the school placement of your choice for your child?

• Are you experiencing issues of discrimination?

• Has your child been excluded from school?

• Have you appealed but are still not satisfied?

• Do you think your child has been discriminated against by the school or Local Education Authority for a reason that is related to their disability?

We can help in all the above areas in order for your child to fulfil his/her potential.

We are a specialist advice centre, for parents whose children have an SEN. Our partners and staff are legally trained specifically within this field, and have many years experience dealing with SEN needs. Our leading partner is a former Barrister who works in this area because he has experienced first hand the issues that many parents face. It is this coupled with the many years of legal training that makes the SEN advice clinic an attractive 'one stop shop' and a viable lower cost alternative to a non specialist high street solicitors.

If you have any questions visit www.sen-legal-services.co.uk or for a free consultation call us on 01273 311442

Are you considering a statutory assessment of your child’s potential SEN? If so, don’t delay your child’s special education provision. Most parents whose child has or may have a special educational need should be aware that new legislation will be coming into force next year regarding this issue.

The Children and Families Bill is slowly winding its way through Parliament and is expected to become Law early next year. Within this Bill radical changes to Special Educational Needs are contained with a new approach being sought. These changes have been outlined previously in the ‘SEND green paper’ in March 2011.

However, at present there is a strict timetable from the start of the process which is requesting an assessment all the way through to appealing a refusal to assess and refusal to statement. Nowhere in the new legislation is there any such timetable which leads to the completion of the Statement.

It seems apparent that there is an increasing tendency by local authorities to dissuade parents from seeking assessments and finalising statements for their children until the new legislation is in place.

This is of particular concern because in effect the cash strapped Local Authority could put off the provisions indefinitely through negotiation and consultation, or the parent would eventually accept anything in an act of desperation.

This we consider is a mistake and we would strongly advise parents against delaying in getting their child assessed or an existing statement amended.

The reasons for this are the lack of certainty over the proposed changes to SEN provision so we consider that it would be prudent to obtain provision for your child now.

It is hoped that there may be amendments to the legislation in order to expedite what could be in effect a ‘standoff’ between Local Authorities and parents, however it is not certain by any means that this will be the case and if the legislation is passed in its current form there will be no remedy to this open ended saga.

What we do know about the new Bill is that it proposes to discontinue statements and replace them with a Health and Care Plan (EHC) available from birth up to twenty five years of age.

We recommend that if your child(ren) has or may have special educational needs, you do not delay and seek legal assistance and advice in order to secure the provision required before the new legislation is introduced.

ABC Magazine - Hampshire 11

Understanding your child’s SEN

I

CAN, the children’s communication charity, has launched their 13th Chatterbox Challenge event, the annual singalong for children in early years settings across the UK. With sponsorship from Openreach and TTS, and the continued support of Humf from the popular children’s TV show, I CAN are calling on parents and carers to encourage their child’s early years setting to register to make this year’s event the best yet.

Chatterbox Challenge: Sounds like fun with Humf week is 10th-16th February 2014 but groups can also hold their Challenge at any time convenient to them. Groups are encouraged to register on-line at www.chatterboxchallenge.org.uk to receive their free Chatterbox Challenge fundraising pack.The activities in the pack are linked to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and will develop a range of skills including attention and listening, one of the early learning goals. The activities have been written by I CAN speech and language therapists and teachers and can be used with all children, including those with speech, language and communication needs (SLCN).

who struggle to communicate Chatterbox Challenge: Sounds and express themselves. like fun with Humf develops the communication Virginia Beardshaw, skills of children ...for I CAN Chief under five socialising Executive through and making said, “The songs and friends, and for Chatterbox rhymes based understanding Challenge is a on sounds, and expressing fi rm favourite noises and in the early years emotions or even silence calendar, when feelings. to highlight the children under five difficulties faced by learn nursery rhymes 1.2 million children and take part in activities in the UK with their speech, aimed at making them confident language and communication. communicators. We are grateful to Openreach, TTS and Humf Children are sponsored to for their support in making this perform in front of families year’s event bigger than ever and carers and, thanks to the support of Openreach and TTS, before. The vital funds raised by children, their families and the funds raised will enable I early years settings help I CAN CAN to help more children

in our work to support the 1.2 million children in the UK who have communication difficulties.

We hope parents and carers will encourage their early years settings to register online and save Chatterbox Challenge Week in the diary.”

Speech, language and communication are crucial for reading, learning in school, for socialising and making friends, and for understanding and expressing emotions or feelings.

1.2 million children in the UK have long-term difficulties with their speech, language and communication and will need extra support. Chatterbox Challenge raises vital funds for I CAN’s work with children with SLCN.

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12 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

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Reading between the lines W

hen I talk to parents about finding and choosing independent (private) schools, I'm often asked, "How can we tell if it is a good school" and, "What else should we be looking at beyond the school's own marketing materials". Well, think of it in the same way you buy a house - although gut feel and your own viewing or visit are the most important parts of your decision-making process, there are other documents, searches and viewpoints you should consult, consider and take into account before making your final choice.

Every independent school is subject to the same rigorous inspection process as state schools. Schools under the umbrella of the Independent Schools Council (ISC) are inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) www.isi.net which reports to the Department for Education (DfE) on the extent to which schools meet statutory requirements. The quality of its service is monitored by Ofsted on behalf of the DfE. All other

teaching, learning, independent schools pupil development, are inspected ...parents safety and school directly by should read management.

Ofsted www.

In particular ofsted.gov.uk. the latest report look at Reports by for every school the main each agency they seriously findings of are very similar consider for the report and in content assurances... if there are any and parents recommendations should read for further the latest report improvement, be sure to for every school they seriously consider for assurances ask when you visit what the school is doing to address them. regarding the standards of

You should also check the financial security of a school.

Most schools publish their annual reports on-line on their websites, if not, ask for a printed copy to check recent management accounts. If the school is a charity, you can also access financial information via www.charitycommission.gov.uk.

In state schools, pupils are tested at the end of each Key Stage to assess what level they have (continued over the page)

ABC Magazine - Hampshire 13

on to study - a broad ability achieved. Independent schools school should still be sending a do not have to enter pupils for handful of students to the top the Key Stage 1 and Key Stage universities.

2 tests used in primary schools which can make it harder for There are a great many parents to make a guidebooks of schools judgement on that you can buy Schools the academic or download and that cater for attainment many monthly a broader range of pupils. glossy magazines of abilities (including If a prep or regularly independent very academic produce junior school supplements children) may not you are about local appear as considering independent high... does not enter schools. Whilst children for the they can be interesting tests, ask them what to read, check whether measures they do use and how the school has supplied the it equates to the state system. information to the publication Ask for a complete list of senior or if it is an independent, school destinations from the non-partisan review. previous three years, together with the number of scholarships Increasingly, parents are visiting offered to its pupils by senior on-line forums to ask questions schools. You can then look at about schools and whilst this the academic performance of the is one way of connecting with senior schools at GCSE and A current users, beware of placing Level to determine whether the too much stock in what is said prep school is preparing pupils as posters can hide behind a for entry into a broad range veil of anonymity and give of schools, including the most you a minority/polarised view. academically selective.

It is much better to go to an Open Event at the school and Most independent senior hang about by the Parent schools supply Association stand to Go their GCSE pick up on chatter and A Level/ or even ask a back for a International few questions second or third Baccalaureate yourself about look if you need results to what the school to so that you know the ISC for is really like! you have made release to the right the media to Whatever decision compile league you use to help tables. Here you you make your can compare schools' final choice, don't performances, but don't underestimate the power of forget to take into account your own opinion. You know how selective a school is in the your child best and where he first place. A lot of the schools or she will be happiest. Take near the top of the tables only stock of what the guides, reports select the brightest children and results tell you and seek so you would expect to see assurances if necessary but take them in the top 75-100 places. time to look beyond these and Schools that cater for a broader read between the lines to see if range of abilities (including children are happy, motivated very academic children) may and well-behaved and that not appear as high as their staff are friendly, welcoming pupils have a wider range of and impressive. Go back for a results. One way to qualify second or third look if you need A Level results is to look at to so that you know you have them alongside the university made the right decision. BAC courses those students are going (continued from previous page)

Could you answer these?

I

magine that, instead of going to the office today, you had to go back to school. How do you think you would get on? Why not find out...

Question 1: Maths (calculator not allowed) • Work out 7.6 - 2.75 • Alex thinks of a number. He adds half the number to a quarter of the number. The result is 60. What was the number Alex first thought of?

Question 2: Grammar Put the apostrophe in the correct place • The girls dress • The childrens party • The cats whiskers • Wits end • Mothers Day How did you do? The answers are at the bottom of this piece.

Although we were taught it at school, many of us struggle with such questions, and dread our children asking for help with their homework.

There are a number of reasons why we can't always help our children as much as we would like. Teaching methods have changed and as adults we may now be more motivated to learn than as a child. Some schools offer classes through their local Further Education College to help parents and also run informal presentations on how maths, in particular, is now taught. So, if you would love to be able to help your child more but feel you don't have the skills to do so, have a word with their teacher and they should be able to help you - you certainly won't be the only parent in that situation.

14 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

Answers Question 1 •.85 • 80 Question 2 • The girl's dress • The children's party • The cat's whiskers • Wits' end • Mother's Day

...what Hampshire parents really read!

Educate and entertain this Christmas

C

hristmas is coming and, amid the 'must have' requests to Santa, parents may well be seeking gifts that educate as well as entertain. Tracy Perrett, Head of Juniors at St Nicholas School in Church Crookham comes up with her 'top ten'.

Shopping for children's Christmas gifts inevitably means at some stage you'll find yourself chasing round every toy shop in town to find the latest 'musthave' present.

Spending out on something you hate but they love, and that might well be discarded before January is one of the joys of being a modern parent!

However, if you've planned ahead one or two well-chosen educational gifts under the Christmas tree could give your child much more than just a toy.

Top ten educational Christmas gifts:

1

A tablet computer Children seem to be just as adept at using

technology as their parents and tablets are increasingly being used as educational tools in school. Apple has even just launched a kids category in its App Store, aimed at children under eleven. For parents worried about Internet security and such like or who simply don't want grubby fingers over their shiny 'bit of kit' there are a whole range of children's tablets designed for the rough and tumble of playroom. Check out the Kurio 7S, Nabi 2 or Leap Pad Ultra.

2

Jigsaws Ever popular, puzzles are great fun gifts for children and adults of all ages and tick all the educational boxes too.

A jigsaw requires a child to use several different aspects of the thinking process. It helps with hand-eye co-ordination, recognition of objects by their

shapes, spatial awareness, mental manipulation and can help with vocabulary too. The fact that the child learns that the piece only fits one way is, in fact, a pre-reading skill.

3

A bicycle Another great present and one which will hopefully develop a lifelong love of exercise and the outdoors. Riding a bicycle requires developing good core stability and balance, visual skills, strength and endurance.

Learning to ride a bike also helps with motor planning, not only to get on and off the bike, but also to master pedaling and steering.

4

Speedstacks If you haven't come across this sport before Speedstacks involves a number of cups which are moved in a

sequence at speed. It's become so popular that it's now considered an international sport. Research has shown stacking improves hand-eye coordination and reaction time by up to 30% and helps utilise both sides of the brain.

Speed stacking helps people improve in other sports, because it helps to improve hand-eye coordination. One study even showed it helped with reading and comprehension.

5

A musical instrument A musical instrument is obviously not just a oneoff gift but one that will involve a process of continual learning.

However, many studies have shown that children who are exposed to music, or those who play an instrument, do better in school than those who don't.

Exposure to music may benefit (continued over the page)

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 15

by Melanie Cook BSc, MSc, AAPS, BMSS and mum of two!

(continued from previous page)

a child's reading age, IQ and the development of the brain.

Adults can benefit too; learning to play an instrument helps the mind to be alert, remain active and sharpens the memory.

Exploding volcanoes! 6

W

hat do you get when you mix science experiments and toddlers? Answer - lots of fun!

Not a combination you would usually think of I’ll admit, however as a scientist myself I really wanted to encourage a love of exploration and discovery in my two little ones. With two boys, one a year old and one two and a half years old I needed to keep things simple, safe and most importantly fun so what could be better than exploding volcanoes?

Whilst I normally have a tendency to leave the really messy play to nursery or playgroups this activity is remarkably well contained in a large plastic tray and so doesn’t leave any mess - result! As my eldest son is particularly obsessed with dinosaurs and anything prehistoric at the moment this also meant he was aware of and interested in volcanoes too.

Step 1: First we made the dough for the volcano. We mixed 3 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 2 tablespoons cooking oil, and 1 cup of water and kneaded until smooth. After placing a plastic bottle in a large baking dish we molded the dough around it into a basic volcano shape.

Step 2: We filled the bottle most of the way full with warm water and a bit of red or orange food colour.

Step 3: We added a couple of drops of washing up liquid to the bottle contents. The detergent helps trap the bubbles produced by the reaction so you get better lava.

Step 4: We added a tablespoon of baking soda to the bottle.

Step 5: Decant vinegar into a small jug and let your toddler slowly pour into the top of the bottle. Watch out - eruption time!

This can be repeated multiple times (approx. ten times in our case!)

The Science part: The lava is the result of a chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar in which carbon dioxide gas is produced. Pressure builds up inside the plastic bottle, until the gas bubbles (thanks to the washing up liquid) are pushed out of the ‘volcano’.

16 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

A ball When tennis legend Andre Agassi was a baby his father is supposed to have suspended a tennis ball above his cot. Whether doing this will gift your child with Andre's legendary returning skills is another matter but using a ball, whether it's a football or tennis ball, helps with handeye co-ordination, gross motor skills and teaches children about teamwork too.

7

Picture books No Christmas should go by without a few great picture books in the present mix. Children love picture books and besides being fun, they can help them progress with vocabulary and understand sentence structure beyond their years. Quite simply, although they may not be able to understand all the words, the illustrations help children understand what they are reading. The repetition, rhythm and rhyme help them learn new words - especially when they are repeated over and over again!

Reading and talking to your child about a book, the picture, the characters and the stories also helps build comprehension.

8

Crayons and paints Of course, painting and drawing are great fun

and help develop fine motor skills but creative activities like painting also help the brain develop too. Painting helps children use both sides of their brain. While the right side is used for emotional and creative responses, the left side of the brain focuses on analytical processes and logic. It can also help with stress relief and selfesteem too.

9

A marble run Available in all sorts of complexities, this construction game is a challenge for both children and adults and is bound to give hours of fun. It helps develop all sorts of skills, including forward planning, hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills and early understanding of science.

10

LEGO® You might have played with Lego as a child, as your parents might have before you, but just because it's a toy that's spanned the generations doesn't mean it's not a great addition to the playroom. Research shows Lego provides patterning practice, fine-motor development and sorting skills, which can help your offspring with early numeracy. On top of that it makes you think in three dimensions - a precursor to physics. It can also be great for creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. BAC St.Nicholas’, Fleet is a happy thriving non-selective day school where education is seen as a partnership between teachers, pupils and parents.

If you would like to find out more visit www.st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

by Sian Williams Kumon

Ways to develop children's maths and literacy skills

I

t is often said that maths and English are the cornerstones to every other subject studied at school and beyond. A strong grasp of maths and English is therefore vital to enable children to experience all-round academic success and will open up doors for them when they ďŹ nish their formal education.

Many believe that maths is key to unlocking the other sciences, whilst English is a constant factor when it comes to overall academic ability. Abilities gained in one subject will also help with understanding the other.

There are a number of activities that you can carry out with your children to practice, develop and improve their maths and English skills.

When it comes to maths, building and developing children's numeracy skills can help them to tackle mathematical problems in

a variety of contexts. While learning via text books and written exercises is important, there are also ways to engage children's senses through learning, which can in turn support reading and written exercises.

Children appreciate learning that feels more like play than work, and there are a number of hands-on, numerical activities that parents can carry out with their children.

Shapes and measures 'Guess my shape' is a game

...the magazine for real people!

(continued over the page)

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 17

(continued from previous page)

You can also go on angle and shape hunts around the house, asking questions as you go.

to school. They can go on to calculate how much time they spend travelling to and from school over days or weeks.

Bus and train timetables are also useful for improving children's mathematical reasoning.

Children can calculate journey times and intervals between departure times.

Real life problems Get children to calculate how many minutes their walk to and from school is, or how long the car journey is if they are driven

Counting Cut out numbers from magazines and newspapers and help your child to put the numbers in different orders.

which involves you thinking of a shape and your child posing subsequent questions about its properties until the identity of the shape is uncovered.

36

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18 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

Encourage your child to count different household objects such as pasta, coins or buttons.

Cooking and baking Cooking and baking are brilliant exercises to improve children's maths and literacy skills. Your children can read the instructions to you or the other way around, if you prefer.

By following the instructions they will become familiar with quantities, fractions, temperatures and cooking times, among other things. They are also likely to feel a sense of satisfaction about being able to create food that the whole family can enjoy.

Developing children's literacy skills is dependent on the mastery of several areas in the English language. Children can build up their literacy skills in a number of ways, including practical hands-on activities.

Encourage children to write at every opportunity If children are intimidated by longer pieces of writing, simply get them to tackle shorter pieces. Children can help you write the weekly shopping list or write thank-you letters to friends/family members that have given them birthday presents. If families take a holiday during school breaks, children can write postcards to loved ones using the same structures they use for letter writing.

Use drama Children love nothing more than acting and trying out different roles.

If your child is a reluctant reader then encouraging them to play a character from a fictional tale, complete with

dialogue, may help to motivate them to read a text.

Encourage children to write in a journal Writing in a journal or diary on a daily or weekly basis will ensure that children will have regular opportunities to improve their writing skills. Maybe try giving children 'free writing' books and, as their work is not assessed, children will feel they have the freedom to choose what they write about - this often leads to a more creative piece of writing.

Make-up stories Take a clipping of a picture from a magazine or newspaper, and have your child make up a story based on what they see in the picture. The picture could centre around a location, a person or an animal., but should have something which will act as focus for the child to use their imagination.

We hope you enjoy carrying out some or all of these activities with your children and that you see the benefits they have on their maths and English skills. BAC The Kumon Tadley Study Centre offers individualised maths and English study programmes for all ages and abilities.

For more information, contact Instructor Lorna Brock on 01189 701 684.

The importance of nursery rhymes in early

childhood development

T

o launch National Nursery Rhyme WeekTM, Claire Bennett, the founder of Music Bugs explains the importance of traditional nursery rhymes in early childhood development and how, as well as being fun, they prepare children for future learning.

Traditional nursery rhymes have been in existence for hundreds of years and handed down from generation to generation and treasured all over the world.

The first known record of ‘Baa Baa Black Sheep’ was in the mid 16th century (Britain) and ‘Three Blind Mice,’ (said to have been written by a teenage chorister, Thomas Ravenscroft, who sang at St Pauls Cathedral) has been traced back even earlier to 1609.

While the origin of these rhymes in many cases is purely speculative, there is no doubting their unique appeal which has ensured their continued use for hundreds of years.

How have these rhymes managed to survive for countless generations? Do they still have relevance in today’s society and what can we do to ensure our children love them just as much as our ancestors did?

Historians struggle to agree on why and how rhymes were originally used. Perhaps they were introduced by adults themselves to satirise the often extreme political and religious events of the day (and not originally intended for use by children at all). Maybe in the past they were used as a form of catharsis for children to help them deal with the reality of day to day life.

What we do know is that a great many of these rhymes are still sung today and are still loved by parents and children the world over. There is a concern, however, that the children’s

music market is becoming oversaturated with twenty four hour access to toddler TV shows and theme tunes which could mean that our traditional nursery rhymes are in danger of being side-lined in favour of more modern tunes.

A nursery rhyme is like rocket fuel for a child’s development, firing their imagination and providing them with the means to learn to talk and count, to develop key skills such as physical coordination and confidence and to make sense of the world around them.

Key developmental benefits of nursery rhymes for young children are: Language development: A nursery rhyme presents a child with a story in rhyming format. It’s a short sequence of words presented in a way that’s easy to recite and remember.

Children are able to pick up on the rhythm of language as well as pitch, volume and inflection.

Studies have shown that

children who have trouble with rhyming words also have trouble learning to read. Introducing rhymes early provides children with an opportunity to practice in a way that is fun and enjoyable.

nursery rhymes helps children to develop coordination and fine-tune motor skills. Fingerplay rhymes help to develop tiny muscles in a child’s fingers, which is essential for early pencil-control techniques.

Rhythm: The rhythms present in nursery rhymes help children to remember the words, exercising their auditory memory skills. Studies have shown that children are able to remember and recall a sequence of words or concepts much more easily if they are associated to a rhyme or a song.

National Nursery Rhyme Week aims to inspire parents and early years specialists to focus on the developmental benefits that young children experience when listening and singing along to rhymes.

Imagination: Nursery rhymes paint colourful images of characters and situations in a way that is appealing to young children, helping them to use their imagination and be more expressive. Imagination is the basis of ‘make believe’ play and storytelling, skills that become important as children grow.

Coordination: The hand gestures and actions that go hand in hand with many

The event, (the first of it’s kind in the UK), takes place from 11th to 15th November and registration and participation is free for parents and anybody who works with the under fives.

Everyone who registers will be invited to download a resource pack containing five song downloads, themed activities such as colouring in sheets, lyric sheets and participation certificates for anyone who completes the ‘Rhyme A Day’ challenge.

For further information about National Nursery Rhyme Week and to register, visit: www.musicbugs.co.uk/nationalnursery-rhyme-week/

on the WEB @

www.abcmag.co.uk direct links to all our advertiser sites...

Check it out!

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 19

T

his list of events in your local area has been carefully selected to offer both children and families fun things to do - hopefully with something to appeal to everyone.

We appreciate that on a family day out if the children are happy, the chances for the entire family to enjoy the day are enhanced.

Although every effort is made to ensure that information is correct at time of going to press, ABC Magazine cannot be held liable for any errors or omissions.

M

any councils are involved in the running of the area covered by ABC Magazine and all are great sources of local information. Listed is the telephone number of each council - queries regarding facilities should be raised with the Leisure Services Department.

Diary of events on the WEB @ www.abcmag.co.uk

Check it out!

November 'til 2 'til 3

Surf

Hampshire

T

'til 3 'til 3 1

he councils, libraries and museums of Hampshire are all busy throughout the year creating things to keep residents busy and entertained. All you have to do is ask!

2

If you have access to the Internet, the information available is astounding.

You can search for What’s On, Arts, Culture, Events, Leisure and Tourism, Libraries, Museums, the Environment the list is endless.

2

www.basingstoke.gov.uk

Basingstoke & Deane

01256 844844

East Hampshire

01730 266551

Eastleigh

023 8068 8068

www.gosport.gov.uk

Fareham

01329 236100

www.hart.gov.uk

Gosport

023 9258 4242

www.nfdc.gov.uk

Havant

023 9247 4174

New Forest

023 8028 5000

Rushmoor

01252 398399

www.portsmouthcc.gov.uk

Test Valley

01264 368000

www.southampton.gov.uk

Winchester

01962 840222

Portsmouth

023 9283 4092

Southampton

023 8022 3855

www.eastleigh.gov.uk www.fareham.gov.uk

2 2

3 9 9 10 14 14 16

www.rushmoor.gov.uk www.testvalley.gov.uk

215 Jan

www.winchester.gov.uk

22 2222 Dec 22-24

20 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

Disclaimer: The information contained in this listing is given in good faith on the basis of information available to ABC Magazine. ABC Magazine cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information and accepts no responsibility for any error, omission or misrepresentation. All liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by the reliance on the information contained herewith, is hereby excluded.

23 23

Jigsaw Puzzle Festival Bitterne United Reformed Church bitterneandhedgeend.urc.org.uk October Half Term at Mottisfont Mottisfont House and Gardens, Mottisfont www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont Festival of Autumn Colours Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway, Exbury www.exbury.co.uk Wild at White’s Apples & Tortoises Fun Gilbert White’s House & Garden, Alton www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk The Witches – Play in a Day The Lights, West Street, Andover www.thelights.org.uk ajtc Theatre Company presents Bin Men The Berry Theatre, Hedge End www.theberrytheatre.co.uk Fleet Fireworks Fiesta 10am-5pm Calthorpe Park, Fleet www.fleetlions.org.uk/fireworks Winchester Round Table Fireworks North Walls Rec, Winchester www.winchesterbonfire.co.uk Family Bird Watch 10.30am-1pm Blashford Lakes Centre, Nr Ringwood www.hwt.org.uk Conker Competition Mottisfont House and Gardens, Mottisfont www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont Truly Scrumptious Treats & Eats Event Whiteley Shopping Centre, Whiteley www.woodlandcrafts.co.uk Christmas Craft Fair Cosham Community Centre, Portsmouth www.scrapbookgetaways.co.uk Firework Fiesta and Fun Fair 6pm Greta Park, Hedge End (behind Library) www.hedgeendcarnival.org.uk Save the Children Gift Fair 2013 Festival Hall, Petersfield www.petersfield-savethechildren.co.uk Treasure Island 6.30pm The Berry Theatre, Hedge End www.theberrytheatre.co.uk Christmas Craft Fair Applegarth Farm, Grayshott www.applegarthfarm.co.uk Winchester Ice Rink The Close, Winchester www.christmasinwinchester.co.uk Alton Christmas Lights Switch On Market Square, Alton www.altonevents.co.uk Cathedral Christmas Market Winchester Cathedral www.christmasinwinchester.co.uk A Christmas Festival Stansted Park, Rowlands Castle www.achristmasfestival.com Cats Protection Christmas Fayre St Mary’s Parish Centre, Alverstoke www.gosport.cats.org.uk Little Pickles Christmas Show Ageas Bowl, Southampton www.littlepicklesmarkets.co.uk

23 235 Jan 24 24 24 291 Dec 30 301 Dec

Santa It’s a Knockout! 1.30-5pm The Mountbatten Centre, Portsmouth www.linkedupfundraising.co.uk Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, London www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com BabyExpoUK Surrey Sports Park, Guildford, Surrey www.babyexpobabyshow.co.uk Aircraft Enthusiast and Model Show Museum of Army Flying, Stockbridge www.armyflying.com Baby & Children’s Nearly New Sale Alton Assembly Rooms, Alton www.lovelyevents.co.uk A Victorian Festival of Christmas HM Naval Base, Portsmouth www.christmasfestival.co.uk Farleigh Wallop Club Christmas Fayre Home Farm Barn, Farleigh Wallop www.farleighwallopclub.co.uk Santa Special Watercress Line, Alresford & Alton www.watercressline.co.uk

December 'til 1 'til 1 'til 22 'til 5 Jan 'til 5 Jan 1 1-31 15 Jan 7 7 7-8

Santa Special Watercress Line, Alresford & Alton www.watercressline.co.uk A Victorian Festival of Christmas HM Naval Base, Portsmouth www.christmasfestival.co.uk Cathedral Christmas Market Winchester Cathedral www.christmasinwinchester.co.uk Winchester Ice Rink The Close, Winchester www.christmasinwinchester.co.uk Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, London www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Petersfield Christmas Market Petersfield www.petersfieldfest.com Santa's Winter Wonderland at Birdworld Holt Pound, Near Farnham www.birdworld.co.uk The Swan Queen's Ball Mottisfont, Near Romsey www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont Christmas Fayre 11am-3pm The d.@rt centre, Southampton www.thedart.co.uk Hunt the Presents on HMS Warrior!

HM Naval Base, Portsmouth www.historicdockyard.co.uk Santa Special Watercress Line, Alresford & Alton www.watercressline.co.uk

7-8 7-8 7-24 8 8-9 11-12 115 Jan 12-24 125 Jan 14-15 14- 15 15 17-24 18 19-22 19-24 20

Submarine Santa Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Gosport www.submarine-museum.co.uk Port Solent Festival of Christmas Port Solent Boardwalk www.portsolent.com The Longdown Farm Christmas Barn Ashurst, Lyndhurst www.longdownfarm.co.uk Orienteering Event 10am-12.30pm Busketts Lawn, New Forest www.southampton-orienteers.org.uk Kaleidoscope Christmas Concerts Royal Marines Museum, Southsea www.royalmarinesmuseum.co.uk Sleeping Beauty The Kings Theatre, Southsea www.kings-southsea.com Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Theatre Royal, Winchester www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk Pinocchio The Berry Theatre, Hedge End www.theberrytheatre.co.uk Aladdin Churchill Way, Basingstoke www.anvilarts.org.uk/whats-on Sleeping Beauty The Kings Theatre, Southsea www.kings-southsea.com Santa Special Watercress Line, Alresford & Alton www.watercressline.co.uk Santa's Secret - Christmas Workshop Lainston House Hotel, Winchester www.lainstonhouse.com Sleeping Beauty The Kings Theatre, Southsea www.kings-southsea.com Christmas Safari Bolderwood Car Park, New Forest www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry Whiteley Christmas Market Whiteley Shopping Centre, Whiteley www.woodlandcrafts.co.uk The Little Match Girl The Point, Leigh Road, Eastleigh www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk Tales of Winter Magic Butser Ancient Farm, Waterlooville www.butserancientfarm.co.uk

20- 24 215 Jan 26-31

January 'til 5 'til 5 'til 5 'til 5 'til 5 'til 5 2-3 2-5 21-25

is FREE

and will remain so as long as the advertisers are aware of THE magazine that Hampshire parents read!

Please mention ABC when replying to adverts, give copies to your friends, and help spread the word!

Santa Special Watercress Line, Alresford & Alton www.watercressline.co.uk Hunt the Slipper Family Trail 10.30am HM Naval Base, Portsmouth www.historicdockyard.co.uk Sleeping Beauty The Kings Theatre, Southsea www.kings-southsea.com

Winchester Ice Rink The Close, Winchester www.christmasinwinchester.co.uk The Swan Queen's Ball Mottisfont, Near Romsey www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Theatre Royal, Winchester www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk Winter Wonderland Hyde Park, London www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Aladdin Churchill Way, Basingstoke www.anvilarts.org.uk/whats-on Hunt the Slipper Family Trail 10.30am HM Naval Base, Portsmouth www.historicdockyard.co.uk The Star of David The Lights, Andover www.thelights.org.uk/WhatsOn Sleeping Beauty The Kings Theatre, Southsea www.kings-southsea.com The Snowman Mayflower Theatre, Southampton www.mayflower.org.uk

February 15-23 15-23 15-23 19

Half-term Trail Lepe Country Park, Exbury Tel: 023 8089 9108 The Elves and the Shoemaker Trail Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Tel: 023 8045 5157 Feed The Birds Week Staunton Country Park, Havant www3.hants.gov.uk/staunton There's a Monster in My Piano 2pm Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Tel: 023 8045 5157

LOOK OUT FOR THE NEW SPRING ISSUE OF ABC OUT & ABOUT 1s t MARCH

March 12 15-16

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Tel: 023 8045 5157 Doggy Fun Weekend Lepe Country Park, Exbury Tel: 023 8089 9108

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 21

Fun places to go & things to do in

Hampshire

• DAYS OUT FOR FREE • DAYS OUT FOR FREE • DAYS OUT All these places offer free admission and may also have other facilities available for a charge (such as tea rooms, boat hire, golf etc) Aldershot -Brickfields Country Park The chance to participate in a variety of nature studies. www.brickfieldspark.org Alton - The Curtis Museum & Allen Gallery The museum has local history from the Ice Age to present day. T - 01420 82802 Andover - Andover Museum Tracing its history from Saxons to the present day, a former town house once visited by Jane Austin. T - 01264 366283 Basingstoke - Willis Museum Has a programme of visiting exhibitions and a gallery 'Basingstoke - the last 200 years. T - 01256 465902 Bursledon - Manor Farm Country Park Children's play areas, space for ball games and picnics. (fee payable for entry to the farm) T - 01489 787055 Eastleigh - Fleming Park Paddling pool and an outdoor children's play area, (other facilities available at a charge). T - 023 8068 4800 Eastleigh - Lakeside Country Park This popular waterpark has open grassland and day fishing (by permit), the lakes can be booked. T - 023 8061 7882 Fareham - The Royal Armouries Museum The museum houses the national collection of artillery. www.royalarmouries.org Farnborough - Farnborough Air Sciences Trust Museum Learn about early jets, artefacts and a simulator for the children. www.airsciences.org.uk Gosport - Gosport Discovery Centre There are great areas for children and young people, a local history museum and a geology museum. T - 0845 603 5631 Havant - Spring Artist Heritage Centre Displays on former industries, commerce, tourism, transport and local buildings. www.thespring.co.uk Lepe - Lepe Country Park The park has an attractive coastal strip with beaches, picnic areas and walks. There is a children's play area. T - 023 8089 9108 Lyndhurst - The New Forest Reptile Centre A great place to see all the reptiles and amphibians of the New Forest. T - 023 8028 3141 Netley - Royal Victoria Country Park There is a parkland for walks and picnics and a seashore for beachcombing. T - 023 8045 5157 Sherfield on Loddon - Longbridge Mill A 800-year-old working water mill. T - 01256 883483 Southampton - City Walls Some sections of the wall still remain around the old town, they are connected by a special walk. T - 023 8083 3333 Southampton - Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre Lots to do, children's splashpool and play area, fitness trail, streams and heathland. T - 023 8067 1921 Southsea - Cumberland House Many imaginative and informative displays showing local natural history. www.chnhm.co.uk Stockbridge - Danebury Ring One of the finest Iron-Age hill forts in southern Britain. T - 01962 860948 Gatwick - Gatwick Airport Enjoy the hustle and bustle of one of the world's busiest airports (charge for the spectator area). www.gatwickairport.com Totton - Totton and Eling Heritage Centre Information panels and three-dimensional scene depicting local history. T - 023 8066 6339 West End - Itchen Valley Country Park A large countryside with marked trails and picnic sites and a large adventure play area. T - 023 8046 6091 Winchester - City Museum The story of Winchester from prehistoric and Roman, from past to present day. T - 01962 863064 Winchester - The Great Hall Built in the early 13th century as part of the original medieval castle with King Arthurs Round Table. T - 01962 846476 Winchester - HorsePower The Museum of the King's Royal Hussars. T - 01962 828539 Winchester - Winchester Cathedral Built for William the Conqueror - Jane Austin is buried here. www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk Amesbury - Stonehenge Landscape The countryside surrounding Stonehenge has many fascinating archaeological features. www.this-is-amesbury.co.uk Salisbury - Salisbury Cathedral Follow the children's trail looking for animals and symbols or take the guided tower tour. www.salisburycathedral.org.uk

Want to reach Hampshire parents?

Call us now, we'll show you how! (01273) 552842 22 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

by Michelle Davey Little Pickles Baby & Children's Shows

Let's go

to a baby show!

L

arge baby exhibitions have been held regularly in London for years but are ďŹ nally starting to ďŹ lter southwards so now Hampshire families can join in the fun without having to travel too far.

Starting a family is a huge step and even when we have baby two, three, four or ďŹ ve rarely does anyone have all the answers! Our children are precious and everyone wants the best but we can still be overwhelmed with the number of products, services and mass of information to take on board!

The Internet has totally changed your mummy friends spot that how we buy most things and gorgeous new product in your made it so much easier to nursery that they haven't even access information. However, seen before has got to be a good there's so much information thing! The products are all there out there it can end up being for you to try - you can check contradictory and unless we're the quality, talk to someone buying from a well-known about it and make sure it really retailer do we really is something that you'll know we can trust use and love rather ...it's our card details than something else great to have with a website to sit in a draw we'd never unused. an opportunity heard of to chat informally, before?

You may often with the have thought person who runs That is the about booking the course... beauty of a photography shopping at a package or a Baby Show - all first aid course or the little gems offered similar but with so many by many small independent businesses offering a similar companies that can normally service you don't know who to be found only on-line, are there choose. All these services are so in front of you. Just because personal it's great to have an a product isn't in a huge high opportunity to chat informally, street store doesn't mean it isn't often with the person who runs exactly what you're looking for the course - a chance to make and sometimes it's really nice sure that you're comfortable to have something not many with them and know without others do. Let's be honest, a doubt that they're the right creating a bit of envy when person to work with your family.

Baby and children's shows aren't all about products and services, they're also a great opportunity to have some family fun! Many shows will have special appearances to entertain (continued over the page)

Track Santa Find out when Santa visits all the different countries on Christmas Eve and when he will reach your town.

Go to: www.noradsanta.org after 1.12.2013

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 23

Christmas

last posting dates

(continued from previous page)

the children and some will put on a full range of classes for you and your children to enjoy together. Many will offer taster sessions for local groups that you can then go along to regularly if you enjoy them or one-off sessions and workshops you can enjoy on the day. With Christmas coming up you can grab a chance to make some beautiful personalised Christmas presents which everyone (especially the grandparents) will

love or meet Santa himself to let him know what you'd like!

Whether you have a bump, baby or child this kind of shopping is definitely worth a try! BAC Michelle Davey and Selina Shrimpton, event organisers for Little Pickles Baby & Children's Shows. Little Pickles organise a range of events for children and families including Baby Shows and their Little Pickles Markets. Their next event will be Little Pickles Christmas Show for Bumps, Babies and Children at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton, on November 23rd. www.littlepicklesmarkets.co.uk

Second class and Royal Mail Signed ForTM 18th December First class and Royal Mail Signed ForTM 20th December Royal Mail Special Delivery GuaranteedTM 23rd December For international mail and other information go to www.royalmail.com/greetings

✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷ Win fab prizes with

Happy bedtimes with Pabobo!

The Pabobo Dream Theater (RRP £60) projects soothing light onto the walls and ceiling to help children drift off to sleep calmly. The colourful and attractive animated projections captivate a jungle or aquarium theme, as well as having the option of playing music. The gentle sleep action stops automatically after 45 minutes (15 minutes for sounds) and a sleep mode can be activated so that it automatically turns back on if the child cries.

The new Pabobo Super Nomade night light (RRP £35) is ergonomically shaped for small hands. This portable night light gives your child independence to find their own way at night and watches over them as they sleep.

It can even tell when it is light and dark, and turns on and off by itself! With over 200 hours of operation from a single charge, it is the ideal companion for home or away.

Visit www.pabobo.com for more information and stockists.

We’ve teamed up with Pabobo to offer 1 lucky ABC reader the chance to win a Dream Theater and 1 lucky ABC reader the chance to win a Super Nomade. For your chance of winning simply tell us how long can the Pabobo Super Nomade operate for from a single charge?

Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found together with the address on page 3.

24 ABC Magazine - Hampshire

SANTA SPECIALS 30th Nov, 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 20th - 24th December See Santa on a steam train - the perfect way to start Christmas! Join Santa as you steam on a magical one hour round trip through the scenic Hampshire countryside as he visits you in your seat! Santa gives every child a gift in a special souvenir sack with soft drinks for children and wine and mince pies for the grown-ups. Fares from £14, trains departing from either Alresford or Alton station. Santa Specials are by advance booking only, fares include all booking fee. (Wheelchair passengers depart from Alresford only, please book by phone.)

To find out more and to book your tickets, clickety click to www.watercressline.co.uk

The Swan Queen's Ball Christmas for the family at Mottisfont

1 December 2013 - 5 January 2014 (except 24 and 25 December)

A

s the frost glitters and the mist rises from Mottisfont's river, the Swan Queen invites you on a magical journey in preparation for her Christmas Ball, through a winter wonderland of beautiful trees, decorated rooms, and fantasy evening gowns.

photos by NTPL/ John Millar & Kate Plumtree

Children can race around the grounds on a magical quest trail to solve the mystery of the Swan Queen's secret, and gain entry to her palace. Look out for clues on the trees in the gardens, adorned with themed decorations created by artists.

Then it's time to enter the boudoir and try on sparkly dresses and handsome cloaks, before enjoying some crafty fun making tiaras, crowns and festive masks. Seek inspiration for what you might wear to the ball, in the incredible Talons & Tiaras 'wardrobe', featuring over fifteen gorgeous designer gowns, created by dress designer and textile artist Kate Plumtree, and inspired by British birds and vintage couture*.

Finally, you are ready to join the Swan Queen at her Ball in a beautiful room filled with sparkling lights and dancing silhouette shadows, and at the centre, an 18th-century style swan ball gown.

Fancy learning a few dance steps, which you can have fun teaching others at home this Christmas? On selected weekends the Swan Queen's glamorous assistant, dressed in glittering finery, is hosting informal dance classes suitable for the whole family - and distributing sweet treats to all participants.

The Swan Queen's Ball: 1 December to 5 January (except 24 and 25 December), 11am - 5pm, normal admission charge only. Weekend dance classes: 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 December, at intervals throughout the day.

The Talons & Tiaras collection of gowns by designer Kate Plumtree is on show from 1 December until 26 January (except 24 and 25 December). *All gowns in the collection are for sale.Visit www.kateplumtree.com for details.

Visit www. nationaltrust.org.uk/ mottisfont for further information.

Special offer for readers of ABC Magazine - just show this magazine at Mottisfont and fill in the coupon the staff give you to claim a free mince pie (we all need a bit of winter fuel to keep us going!)

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 25

Bad Santas

give the real Santa a bad name

Don't fake it!

E

ight million real Christmas trees are bought every year in the UK.

Why buy a real tree? Many farms provide a full family festive experience with reindeer, Santa's grotto, refreshments and craft fairs. By visiting a tree farm, you can select a good quality tree that matches your desired height, shape and colour. As the tree is harvested there and then, you can be assured of its freshness, all without the hassle of waiting for it to be delivered. Families are also able to see, first-hand, the work that goes into producing the tree.

Fraser firs (lemon scented), in particular, provide the nostalgic seasonal aroma that many of us associate with Christmas. Artificial trees just can't provide this authentic sensory reminder of the season.

A National Trust survey two years ago revealed that just looking at a Christmas tree for five minutes can help to relieve stress levels, while a walk in the woods is capable of lowering blood pressure and improving overall well-being.

Studies show that a real tree is five times more environmentally friendly than an artificial tree. One reason for this is that Christmas trees improve air quality. Every acre of Christmas trees grown produces the daily oxygen for sixteen people and a hectare absorbs six tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. The trees also have a positive effect on the environment in terms of helping to stabilise soils and protect water supplies.

Once it's time to take down the Christmas decorations, Christmas trees are estimated to generate an extra 160,000 tonnes of waste, which is why it is important to put a real tree to good use by recycling it. For example, it can be chipped for use in parks and playgrounds, or it can be used to prevent shore erosion. Christmas trees can also form part of an animal's natural habitat in streams, ponds and lakes.

Most artificial trees are made of metal and plastics, typically PVC, and are non-bio-degradable. Considering most of these trees are manufactured in the Far East, transporting them to the UK adds to the trees' carbon footprint. Studies have shown that an artificial tree has three times more impact on climate change and source depletion, compared to a natural tree. To reduce this overall impact and redress the balance, the life-span of an artificial tree would need to increase to twenty years.

Information supplied by the British Christmas Tree Growers Association - www.bctga.co.uk

26 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

I

t seems you need to shop around when it comes to visiting Santa or one of his helpers. A big price tag doesn't always mean an appropriate present and a few cheery words.

According to Socked.co.uk the main causes for concern were: • Cheap presents: 10p bubbles, mini chocolate bars, and, worst of all, one poor child was given a spatula.

• Expensive access to Santa: £5 to sit with Santa, a 10p present and perhaps a photo opportunity. That's a lot of money!

• Poor Santa hygiene: He's a busy man at this time of year, but surely Mrs Santa won't let him leave for the grotto in the morning without brushing his beard and cleaning his teeth?

Some of the Santa's encountered had breath that could melt a snowman.

• Poor Santa fashion: Clothing trends move on, but Father Christmas stays the same.

However, he never turned up on Christmas night with holes in his socks and a silver belt buckle that was made out of tin foil.

•Poor Santa discipline: A distinct lack of "Ho-ho-ho" was reporting by many.

A North Pole spokesperson commented: "I can assure you the real Santa is a gentleman and we are aiming for another year in present delivery and efficiency.

Santa's outfit is in pristine condition and he is currently reading the 'Who is naughty and who is nice book 2013'"

www.northpole.com My favourite Christmas website is www.northpole.com There's art and crafts, recipes, stories, games and colouring pages - plenty to keep the children occupied while you write the cards or wrap up presents!

You shall go to the ball!

A

dmittedly, nowadays it might take a little more planning but everyone deserves a good night out, particularly over the Christmas period. If you are anything like me, before having children a night out would be preceded by at least a day of preparations! I would probably buy a new top or bag, get my nails done and spend the afternoon showering, doing my hair and choosing my outfit. Unfortunately, this doesn't happen any longer but with some advance planning you can still go out feeling relaxed and confident.

Most of us will have at least one 'big' night out over the next couple of months so put the date in your diary and plan accordingly! This means trying to fit in some childfree time during the day. If your children are at school or pre-school, rather than rushing around doing housework, you could spend the morning at the hairdressers or the beauty salon. Now that you have children you probably don't

have the time or money to have a regular manicure, pedicure or other beauty treatments but, if possible, try and treat yourself.

It can make you feel that little bit extra special and boost your self-confidence. You might not be able to afford to do this too often, but there's nothing wrong with an occasional treat! You may prefer to have a relaxing treatment such as a massage, have your make-up done professionally, have a blow

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If you are ready to start thinking about regaining your pre-bump size and shape, and you want a natural and non-evasive helping hand, the Malory Band might be the answer!

Most women would agree that their most amazing achievement to date has been the creation of their very own bundle of joy, who consumes every moment of their day. As a new mum, you are tired, busy and the last thing on your mind is a strict diet to get you back in shape after the birth. You don’t have the time or the energy to focus on calorie counting or going to the gym every day, so what can you do? How can you get back in shape in a natural, non-invasive, organic way? Simply wear the Malory Band around your waist and it will keep you permanently aware of how your eating is affecting your girth!

dry at the hairdressers or simply spend some time going round the shops picking out a new top or some new jewellery. If you have a relaxing time during the day you will have a more enjoyable evening and won't be stressed and feel rushed when you go out.

You will also feel more relaxed if you have some child-free time to get ready before you go out.

If your partner or a friend is looking after the children whilst you are out, ask them to come an hour before you need to leave, so that you can get ready without being distracted by your children. If you are paying a babysitter and can afford an extra hour, it will mean you go out the house far calmer and you probably won't end up doing your make-up in the taxi!

You could also use any child-free time during the day to visit one of the big department stores and ask their advice on make-up. If

you go when they aren't busy, they will be happy to try a few different products on you so you can see what looks best - but don't buy more than you can afford!

If you have got into a routine of staying at home and not having much of a social life without children, you may actually feel a little bit nervous about a night out. If so, see if you can arrive with someone else so you can walk in together or have a friend round whilst you are getting ready to help with your hair or to help you choose what to wear.

Finally, don't forget to be safe.

If you've had a few drinks it's easy to take more risks than you would normally. If you are going home by taxi, book it in advance and ask the driver to ring you when he is outside so you are not waiting around, and if possible travel home with a friend. Have a great night!

The Malory Band is a simple (but oh so effective) new British product which is a contemporary twist on a centuries-old technique. The concept is thousands of years old, so it’s no gimmick.

Not recommend for breast feeding mums, or for mums of babies under 9 months.

Available from www.maloryband.com priced at £35.00 We’ve teamed up with www.maloryband.com to offer 3 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a band to try for themselves.

For your chance of winning, simply tell us on what part of your body you would wear the Malory Band?

Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found together with the address on page 3.

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 27

Making it personal!

C

hristmas is a great time of year to overload on personalised presents, particularly if you are giving gifts to children. They love presents that are about them!

The personalised gift market has grown enormously over the last few years. If you give a personalised gift, it shows you have thought a little about the lucky recipient rather than gone for the easier option. Unique presents don't have to be expensive. Nowadays, there is a vast range of gifts you can give including mugs, pencil cases, puzzles, CDs and bags so you really don't have to spend a fortune.

love a photo of the children so book in with a photographer who specialises in taking family shots and many of your present dilemmas will be sorted. Alternatively, you could put together a montage of photos and frame them. This is a lovely gift as it is something most of us want to do ourselves, but never quite have the time. Photos of friends make beautiful gifts for your children's friends. Have a look at all the photos you have on your phone or camera; you are bound to have taken a few when friends come round for tea and if you put one in a frame, it becomes a special memory to keep. If you know a couple who are pregnant or who have recently had a baby, vouchers for a portrait shot are a lovely gift and the photos will last for ever.

There are many companies that specialise in bespoke gifts Fingerprint jewellery for children. You can is always treasured This have books and by parents or CDs that centre is an ideal grandparents and on their own it doesn't have time of year name and their to be restricted for you and your to females. friends, or simply have a Men can have children to pack of pencils cufflinks with an get crafty! made with their imprint of their name on - and it child's fingerprints saves the parent having and, of course, there to label everything! Bags can are all kinds of jewellery options be personalised for adults and for women. Many ceramics children; you can have a name studios also do imprints on put on or perhaps a picture of a plates, which make lovely gifts. pet or favourite view.

New parents will love vouchers for castings of their baby's feet Don't forget there is nothing or hands. These unique castings more personal than a photo. will be truly treasured as they Extended family members show every wondrous little line

28 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

of the baby's foot or hand and can be beautifully framed to last a lifetime.

This is an ideal time of year for you and your children to get crafty! There are so many gifts that you can make, rather than buy. A mug becomes so much more precious to a grandparent if it has been painted by their grandchild. In fact, the whole family can spend a morning or afternoon in a ceramics studio painting items for friends and family. It's an enjoyable way to spend a winter's afternoon,

and you are also making some precious presents.

Personalised gifts are often done via mail order so if you won't be seeing the person over the festive period, it also makes life a little easier as you can arrange for the gift to be sent direct to them. Do remember that you need to order a little earlier than normal to allow for the gift to be personalised, so if you are ordering for Christmas make sure you check the last date for Christmas gifts to ensure it arrives in time.

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Really Giant Posters are committed to creating the best designed really giant posters, at the lowest prices. They concentrate on bespoke and beautiful designs which are perfect for children’s bedrooms, nurseries or play rooms.

Really Giant Posters work with leading UK artists and children’s illustrators to produce unique and eye-catching designs, exclusive to www.reallygiantposters.com The posters are original, eyecatching and stimulating and they measure a stunning 100 x 75 cm and cost only £9.95.

All the posters featured are carefully thought out with regard to educational impact, readability, spacing and pleasing colour combinations.

We’ve teamed up with Really Giant Posters to offer 10 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win a Really Giant Poster! For your chance of winning, simply visit the website www.reallygiantposters.com and tell us how many giraffes there are in the zoo colouring-in poster?

Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found together with the address on page 3.

Want to make a Christmas gift

by Justine Woolley Queenie's Craft Emporium

with a personal touch?

T

hen why not try this decorative gift bag. It is a perfect project to do with your children as they can get creative with the decoration. If your child is slightly older they can have a go at the stitching too. Sizes and styles can be changed depending on your level of expertise.

This project will take approximately one and a half hours.

To make a Christmas tree bag you will need: Paper and a pencil 3 pieces of felt in your chosen colour (2 for bag back and front, 1 for straps) 1 piece of green felt 1 small piece of brown felt Sequins or other glittery decorations (gold, silver, and red look best) Embroidery thread in a contrasting colour Scissors Needle and a few pins Fabric glue or PVA glue Please note - guides on how to do blanket stitch, and Christmas tree templates are available online at www. queeniescraftemporium.co.uk

felt. Using the glue get your child to stick sequins or other decorations onto the tree shape.

6. Glue the tree and stump piece to the front of your bag.

Let it dry for a few hours. Fill it with goodies and give a lovely gift to a special person.

Enjoyed making this? Then why not try some different styles?

Maybe try a snowman, star, or candy canes. Now you know the basics let your creativity shine and create some unique gifts for friends and family.

Queenie's Craft Emporium, craft parties for any occasion. To find out more about our parties, and how to book see www. queeniescraftemporium.co.uk

3. Cut out a small rectangle of brown felt for the tree stump.

4. While your tree shape is drying, lay your two pieces of matching coloured felt together (wrong sides together) and pin them together to make stitching easier. Using blanket stitch, sew around the two long sides and one short side, using embroidery thread.

...what Hampshire parents really read!

5. With your other piece of felt cut out two 3cm width strips, using the length of the felt, to make bag straps. Pin these into place. Sew these onto the bag using a cross shaped stitch.

Instructions 1. Draw a Christmas tree shape on some paper to create a template. This could be a basic triangle or a more elaborate shape.

2. Using your template cut out your tree from your green

Christmas joke Q: What did one snowman say to the other?

A: Do you smell carrots?

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 29

30 ABC Magazine - Hampshire

Here comes Santa Claus...

photographs by Rob Steel, Tickled Frog

T

his Christmas, don't rush straight to the High Street for all of your shopping. With a little imagination you can source beautiful handcrafted or customised presents that are guaranteed to raise a smile and be treasured by your loved ones for years to come.

1. Browse Facebook and Pinterest Social media is a great place to discover artisans offering handcrafted gifts for babies, children and adults.

You will find everything from customised bunting, cartoon strips, silk paintings, vintage decorations, caricatures to homemade toys. What's great is that you can view previous work, read testimonials and send an enquiry all at the click of a button.

Check out the following Facebook pages for some inspiration: • Mallory's Alphabet decorative alphabet letters and customised felt pictures • Strawberry Tree Crafts knitted toys, pretty wooden

boats and vintage china days you can collect their • Just for Tiny People - beautiful glazed pieces of art, ready to be hand-made teepees unwrapped and admired.

• My Blue Shed - hand printed clothing, decorations and Chocolate truffles or furnishings peppermint creams With • Lamaila Silks placed in a the right - customised decorative box photographer silk paintings, are guaranteed to hand the photocards and to be a hit. bunting shoot will be fun, There are plenty relaxed and a 2. Get the of recipes memorable event children available on-line within itself. involved and the best thing Children like about making homenothing more than using made chocolates is licking their imagination and getting the bowl clean afterwards! messy! Why not combine both and create some fabulous Think a tea towel is dull? presents for the family?

Not when your children have designed their own using Ceramic cafés are not only great colourful handprints or drawing fun, they enable your little ones hilarious self-portraits! There to use their creative juices and are many on-line stores offering decorate a piece of crockery printed tea towels. as they wish. In a matter of (continued over the page)

Christmas gift ideas from Tickled Frog

If you're looking for a novel Christmas present for that someone special, but without a special price tag, why not give a voucher from Tickled Frog Photography? A £50 gift voucher will pay for a thirty minute on-location photo-shoot in Hampshire plus a 10 x 8 print of your favourite image, ready to be framed. The photo-shoot possibilities are endless - so whether it's a family stroll across the beach, snuggled up at home with the newborn or a game of 'hide and seek' in the forest there's plenty of fun to be had.

Alternatively, why not surprise the grandparents this Christmas with some framed photographs of you and the children? For just £80 (usually £130) you can enjoy a one hour family photo-shoot at a location of your choice in Hampshire and receive five of your chosen images on CD to enable you to print and frame as many copies as you wish - perfect for friends and relatives!

To place an order or for further information please contact Rob on 07545 234155 or email rob@tickledfrog.co.uk www.tickledfrog.co.uk

07545 234155 rob@tickledfrog.co.uk

www.tickledfrog.co.uk

...priceless information yet free!

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 31

✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷✷

★

★

★

Your child could be the next cover of ABC Magazine Hampshire

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Any photographer advertising in ABC Magazine has the opportunity to submit photographs as a possible front cover.

★

★

★

So, if you'd like to see your child on the cover of ABC Magazine - simply contact one of the photographers advertising in this issue, have some photos taken and ask for them to be submitted for the cover star competition.

★

(For contact details see the page-by-page directory on page 39)

(continued from previous page)

Older children may enjoy making more intricate gifts using baking clay or jewellery.

And don't forget the finishing touches; a drawing on an A2 size piece of paper makes a wonderful alternative to wrapping paper!

3. Create lasting memories With children growing so fast, a photo-shoot session has to be one of the most valued presents for parents or your other half.

All of us have androids, digital cameras and the ability to take nice 'snaps' but a portrait photographer has the knowhow and flare for capturing the atmosphere and people's personalities so effortlessly; those funny exchanges between siblings, raucous laughter when dad slides over, or that split second when mother and baby gaze into each other's eyes. With the right photographer to hand the photo-shoot will be fun, relaxed and a memorable event within itself.

Portrait photographers have all the lenses, filters and kit you probably don't have at home and will spend a considerable amount of time editing the imagery using professional software to ensure the very highest quality and treatment.

The hard part will be selecting the photos to keep!

For grandparents, who have everything and say they 'need nothing' every Christmas (we've all heard that), a framed photograph, canvas print or photographic gifts such as mugs and jigsaws make fantastic gifts that will be cherished for years.

So get your thinking caps on and get creative this Christmas; give an original gift that will be truly appreciated. No socks, no DVDs and, importantly, no queues! BAC For more information visit www.tickledfrog.co.uk or call Rob on 07545 234155

Panto facts • The word pantomime means: 'Dramatic entertainment, originating in Roman mime, in which performers express meaning through gestures accompanied by music.'

• Cinderella is the most popular pantomime, followed by Aladdin.

• Pantomime storylines and scripts usually make no direct reference to Christmas, and are almost always based on traditional children's stories.

32 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

Stress free travel • Ensure the car is large enough for all the luggage and passengers!

• Is the car reliable enough for a long journey? If not, consider upgrading to a rental car.

• Travelling with children? Take wet wipes, drinks, snacks and pillows.

• Make sure children are sitting high enough to see out of the window • Use a Sat Nav to avoid mapreading arguments • Keep the car well-ventilated to avoid travel sickness •Consider travelling overnight so children can sleep and then stop for breakfast • Use CDs, DVDs and play word games.

• Give children a map, so that they can follow the journey.

Tips from Europcar

is FREE

and will remain so as long as the advertisers are aware of THE magazine that Hampshire parents read!

Please mention ABC when replying to adverts, give copies to your friends, and help spread the word!

W

Holiday decisions

hen you are going on holiday as a family there is a lot more to think about than when you were planning a holiday with your partner or friends. Your priorities change. If you can keep your children happy, whatever their age, the chances are that you will all have a better holiday.

Young children may find long flights and time differences very tiresome and many parents decide that long haul holidays are best kept for when children are older. Children will love a week on the beach, in this country or abroad, and unless you really want to you don’t need to travel for hours on a plane.

If you want good weather to be guaranteed it is probably better to go abroad! Villas allow great flexibility and you don’t need to worry if your baby is crying all night or is up at 5am ready for a day on the beach. But obviously, this may mean more work for you as parents regarding cooking and keeping it clean.

There are many child-friendly hotels with holiday clubs for the children, babysitters, separate mealtimes for children and a large children’s pool. which many families love. However, these can become over-run with children in the school holidays which isn’t what everyone is looking for. So, you may want to look for a hotel that isn’t primarily for families but still welcomes children.

If you decide to stay in this country there are some wonderful areas to discover within a few hours drive. You don’t normally need to worry about excessive heat, airport delays, or changes in the food and water. Most children love to stay on a farm where they can help with the chickens or feed the lambs and there is normally

plenty of outdoor space for them to run around in. It’s often nice to not have to get in the car every day so you may want to choose somewhere within walking distance of the beach or village.

If you are self-catering; make sure it is a holiday for you too.

Try to eat out a couple of times and keep washing and ironing to a minimum - if at all! Most of us only get one holiday a

year and it should be a time for you to all enjoy being together, rather than worrying about clean clothes or home-cooked meals every day.

Hopefully, you will have already booked your holiday, but if not try not to delay too much longer particularly if you need to go in the school holidays. Once it’s booked, you can relax and start looking forward to it!

Choose a 1 or 2 bed apartment for 1 week

Family fun in the sun in Tenerife The Pearly Grey Ocean Club in southern Tenerife offers you the chance for a fantastic family holiday in a lovely selfcatering apartment at ‘the friendliest resort in the world'!

For just £199 (flights not included) you and your family can enjoy a luxury week in the sun. Perched on the clifftops in the lovely little coastal village of Callao Salvaje ‘Perla Gris’ has two pools including a children’s pool, a choice of restaurants, regular entertainment for all ages and a fantastic terraced cocktail bar with fabulous uninterrupted westerly views perfect for those extraordinary Tenerifian sunsets. A short drive from the airport, with a superb beach and plenty of shops, restaurants and bars nearby there is no need to go anywhere else - just relax with your family and enjoy.

For more information please call 0161 408 0139 and quote reference 108281 or email lee@perlagris.com

www.perlagris.com

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 33

Having a Christmas baby?

C

hristmas is nearly here, and most families are busy getting ready; choosing presents, preparing for Christmas dinner, and getting together with relatives or friends. If you are in your ninth month of pregnancy and due around the 25th, your Christmas may be a little different.

If you are due to give birth around Christmas or New Year, you are probably praying that your baby arrives a little late or a little early. I was due to have my son on 21st December and I found the most unsettling thing was not knowing when I would actually give birth - particularly as I had another child as well.

You want your other child to enjoy Christmas but it is difficult to plan if you know you may well be in hospital on the day itself.

You may be deciding if it would be safe to travel for a day or two to spend Christmas elsewhere, whether you should invite people over to your house so that at least you will be at home, and who may take care of any older children when everyone has other things on their mind.

The ultimate decision is very personal, but whatever you decide you need to plan it and probably have a plan B as well! Here are a few things to consider:

would your guests mind packing up in the middle of it if you go into labour? Or would the party be able to continue without you? You may be happy with either of these scenarios.

• Are you at all stressed by the idea of celebrating Christmas with lots of other people when you have a baby due so soon?

If your answer is yes, simply celebrate quietly at home this year.

• If you have an older child you may choose for them to go to their grandparents' house, or to another relative for the day.

This could give your child a wonderful, relaxed Christmas and could eliminate worries about childcare while you are giving birth. Of course, this doesn't work for every family.

When you are thinking about childcare you will want to consider where your child would go and still have a good time if the birth did happen on Christmas day - this might be different to where he would go at another time.

• Would travelling elsewhere still allow you to get to the hospital you chose? Remember to take weather conditions into account.

• If you are considering hosting Christmas dinner in your home,

The staff at your hospital will work extra hard to make your baby's birth and Christmas special for you if you are in labour over the festive period Christmas and new year babies often make it into the local

34 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

paper so you could become a minor celebrity! Your baby's birthday will be special, whether or not you go into labour over Christmas, although that can make it extra special. In the

future. your child may complain about having to have a two-inone birthday and Christmas party, but you don't need to think about that for at least a year or two!

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Expert narrative, coupled with stunning colour photography, makes the journey of your pregnancy an inspiring visual experience. Whether you are trying to conceive, have just discovered you are expecting or if you only have a few months to go, this book offers a wealth of information and answers all the most important questions. 'your Pregnancy week by week' retails at £19.99 and is available from www.dk.co.uk We’ve teamed up with DK to offer 5 lucky ABC readers the chance to each win the new edition of 'your Pregnancy week by week' book. For your chance of winning, simply tell us how many copies of this guide have been sold worldwide?

Normal ABC competition rules apply and can be found together with the address on page 3.

Parenting the hardest things 1

by Ericka Waller muminthesouth.blogspot.com

Families at war

T

he average British family argue at least four times a week over trivial things such as washingup and television viewing, a leading on-line furniture retailer says.

The top ten family arguments according to The TradeFurnitureCompany. co.uk are: • Washing-up and emptying the dishwasher • Excessive internet use • Mobile phone bills • What to watch on television / who lost the TV remote • Staying out late / using the family car • Housework and laundry • What to have for dinner • Leaving lights on / wasting electricity • Extra pocket money / money issues • Walking the dog / pet care

on the WEB @

www.abcmag.co.uk direct links to all our advertiser sites...

Check it out!

Moon sand.

Who invented it and why? Was it just to drive us a bit more insane?

8 Hair-washing. Do you try and do it nicely or do you go with the water-boarding technique which is cruel, but quick?

13 The national curriculum.

Book descriptions will lose all meaning. All that will matter is which colour sticker is on the spine. The answer to this will determine how good a parent you are and how much your child can expect to achieve in life.

9 The school run. It’s like one of those riddles about crossing 2 Grapes - Do you give them a river with a wolf, a goat and or not? Yes they are healthy, but a cabbage (this is not a simile what if your child chokes to for how I see my children). I 14 Your mum, and your death? Should you peel and slice (the boat), can only carry one mum-in-law. They will always them, or is that too much? passenger at a time. If I leave think they know better about the wolf and the goat alone everything, even things that 3 Other parents. They always together, the wolf were not invented have opinions and advice you will eat the goat. or known when They never asked to hear and have no If I leave the they were first always have intention of following. goat and the parents. Also, opinions and cabbage alone any desirable advice you never 4 The hours between 3.30pm together, the trait displayed asked to hear and 6.30pm, when your goat will eat by your child and have no children turn into demonic the cabbage. will be ‘passed versions of their former selves.

Substitute on from them’. intention of some of Any less desirable following 5 Mealtimes. The cajoling, the these things for trait will be the fault food throwing, the tantrums, lunchboxes, coats and of the other parent’s the disgusted faces, the begging, children and you get my drift. genes (depending on which set the arguing, the threats, the of parents you are talking to). inevitable tears. Then the 10 Parking. It will begin to take None of it will come from you. cleaning up. over your life. How early do you leave to get parking? How close 15 Guilt. Get used to feeling 6 Car journeys that last more will you be able to park? How guilty. Guilty if you told them than ten minutes. After this soon do you need to leave to off, guilty if you made them cry. time all the snacks and drinks get back to the car? How dare Guilty if you said no. Guilty if you have packed will have gone other people get closer spaces, or you screwed up a scribble they and they will need a wee or a park in child and parent parking did. Guilty if you ever go out poo. Even if they don’t they will when they don’t even have kids? without them. Guilty if you ever claim to until you stop. get a babysitter. Guilty if you 11 Night time. Do you leave hide in the kitchen and scoff a 7 Children’s car seats. Which them to cry? What if there is chocolate bar without sharing it one is the best one? How do actually something wrong? with them. you fit the damn thing? How do What if there is nothing wrong you then fit your child and you are therefore 16 Plastic toys that make noise. in the damn thing? letting them The off-button is always hidden.

Get What about if win? How can I remember one plastic dog who used to they have a coat something so cried for bones. We used to have feeling guilty. on? How do small make to get up in the night to feed Guilty if you told you adjust the such a loud him one. Five minutes later, just them off, guilty if straps without noise? How as we had got back to sleep he you made them cry. them escaping? do you make would bark loudly and shout Do the covers it stop? Do you “I love bones!” - we would have Guilty if you come off so you give it medicine? thrown it away but it would said no. can wash the wee/ Pick it up? Take it have made us feel guilty. spew/squashed raisins for a drive? Put it out away? in the garden?

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 35

Hampshire A

for sale!

BC Hampshire was launched six years ago and is now an established, well-read magazine loved by both parents and advertisers. As part of the ABC 'family' of magazines it is well-supported with a fantastic website and Social Media, ensuring businesses who advertise issue after issue get the right message across to the right people. We are now looking for a new franchisee to take over the day-to-day running of the magazine - a real chance to get your teeth into an enjoyable business that you can run from home, fitting around your family commitments. Managing and growing the client base for ABC Magazine requires no more than good communication skills, the correct approach, and the time to commit to the business. The experience can be very rewarding, not only financially, but on a personal level too.

WANTED

Hampshire is a diverse county, full of interesting businesses led We are now looking for someone who is interested in buying by determined, entrepreneurial business owners and the established ABC Magazine Hampshire franchise, prospective and existing clients are very open to the someone who has the necessary skills to consolidate Full idea of ABC Magazine helping them promote the existing client base and has the right attitude training and their business to our targetted audience. Even to approach more local and national businesses, ongoing support in these uncertain financial times, you will be to offer them the opportunity of promoting is provided, so if this encouraged by the amount of enthusiastic and their business in a high quality, wellbusiness opportunity confident individuals who are contacting us to established, informative magazine which is appeals to you, you tell us about their new ventures and business well-distributed to their target market. may just be the ideas. I genuinely enjoy hearing their stories and I am often able to pass on helpful contacts As franchisee/editor, you will be fully trained person we are and make introductions to those looking for and equipped with the tools and knowledge to be looking for! like-minded people with skills and products that able to sell advertising space, and put together the will benefit their businesses. Although sales-based, this is magazine from scratch. No experience is necessary, but not really an 'advertising sales job' but more of an opportunity a background in sales is recommended, as is a sound business to help local businesses grow sense, competent literacy and - if a local business, new or computer skills and an ability As expands into new areas of established, has a target market to both work on your own the UK, we are always on the lookout of families or children, then and also fit in with the already for bright and ambitious people ABC Magazine really is the established ABC network who want to keep busy; combining childcare and family life with logical choice for them to form of editors. This role is most running a really interesting a working relationship with. definitely for someone who is and profitable business not afraid of hard work! a new Magazine!

ABC Magazine Hampshire began back in 2007 and got off Full training and ongoing Taking on an Magazine franchise is an investment to a flying start with help from support is provided, so if this opportunity as well as a career, the franchisor and Head Office business opportunity appeals and would appeal to someone team in Sussex. There was a to you, you may just be the with strong organisational skills, desperate need in the county person we are looking for! who is prepared to work hard. for a free local information We are looking for editors in all magazine specifically for Please contact ABC Magazine counties in southern England, however, parents with young children.

Head Office on 01273 552842 we would welcome interest from The very nature of a franchise for a preliminary discussion, people anywhere in the UK! is that you have the huge or email your CV to us, advantage in the early days of ho@abcmag.co.uk - we look continuous assistance, support forward to hearing from you! and guidance every step of the way. There are so many pitfalls and dangers to be faced when starting a business alone, but We would be particularly interested to hear from with a franchisor/mentor who people living in Hampshire who are keen to take on ...what has ‘been there, done that and the established ABC Magazine franchise. created a successful proven Hampshire If you would like to know more please business model’ the guidance parents visit our website www.abcmag.co.uk in the early days is invaluable, or call (01273) 552842 or and the ongoing support vital really read! email: franchise@abcmag.co.uk to the success of your business.

36 ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE

New editor wanted for established Hampshire franchise...

Doing it your way...

T

he third Monday of January is known as 'Blue Monday' - the day of the year when we are likely to be at our most miserable.

Not a lot goes on in January, particularly by the end of the month; we don't have any money left, there are lots of winter colds and flu about and we've probably already failed all our New Year resolutions.

The glow of Christmas has worn off and it seems a long time until the summer holidays.

But enough of these depressing thoughts; if you are feeling negative about your job and aren't relishing another year of the same old grind then start taking some steps towards making a change.

How many of us have decided that 2014 is going to be the year when we finally set up our own small business? However, many people give up on the idea of starting their own business, simply because they don't know where to start. Coming up with the idea is often the easy part.

After you have children you will probably think of many simple time or labour saving solutions that you could put into practise, or you simply see or do something in another area that can't be found where you live.

The ABC Magazine franchise was originally launched because the founder had children and couldn't find a magazine that gave her ideas of what to do with her children in her local area. Hence, ABC Magazine

Sussex was born and followed by editions in other areas where there was a need for good, local information for parents.

business grows you may need You may want total freedom and see a gap in the market that some help from specialists; in accounting, for example, but to you could fill. With technical start with you should be able advances we are very lucky that do most things yourself. Of many of us already have quite All the separate ABC course, you must make sure you a lot of the tools any Magazines are are doing everything legally so business needs to Owning franchises, which reach a worldwide you may need some professional means there is guidance on certain issues but audience. A a franchise less risk as it thanks to modern technology it laptop and a gives you many is a tried and is now much easier to keep track mobile phone of the freedoms of tested formula of everyday matters yourself. may be all the owning your own and there infrastructure business but with is support Whatever your business, you your new from head will have some start-up costs business needs. far less risk office and other which are likely to be funded There are also franchisees. Many of through savings, relatives, many software the activities and classes investors or banks. You may packages that help you that you attend with your child also be able to get governmentkeep track of your finances and (continued over the page) will be franchise based, such as other operational areas. As your Jo Jingles or Tumble Tots, and following this route has resulted in many mums coming to own Successful 'Business Mum' is seeking their own business. If you enjoy ďŹ ve working partners to work part-time a class that you attend and feel that you could do something from home without compromising family similar it is worth looking into commitments or current career. whether there are opportunities in other locations. Owning a If you have a supervisory, managerial, franchise gives you many of the sales, marketing, recruitment, healthcare freedoms of owning your own or self-employed background or you wish business but with far less risk. to develop an extraordinary lifestyle, It is essential to know exactly please call Vicki on what is included in the franchise package and what your costs will be in the future. It is also very useful to talk to other franchisees in the same company to see how their business has grown, and for any tips on how Business Link Helpline - for help and advice on to succeed. starting or growing your business. Tel: 0845 600 9006.

The British Franchise Association - for advice if you are thinking of joining a franchise or franchising your business. Visit www.thebfa.org

YES, YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL!

01962 850303

Starting up on your own?

ABC MAGAZINE - HAMPSHIRE 37

(continued from previous page)

backed funding. Investors or banks will want to see a business plan and even if they don't it is useful to have something down on paper to guide you and keep you on track.

Investors will want to see that you have researched your market. You will need to be able to identify your potential customers and to test your product or service on them. This could be as simple as finding out what kind of cupcakes work or what items of soft play toys keep toddlers entertained in your play café. Additionally, you will need to officially set up your business and work out which legal structure is right for you.

If you have a good idea and have done some basic research to ensure it will work in the real world there are a number of organisations you can contact for help and guidance on setting up your own business. They will help you through the legalities and can give you impartial advice. There is plenty of help available, so if you have a great business idea don't be put off by the bureaucratic elements involved. Once you have got over the first hurdle of getting your business off the ground you can then concentrate on making a success of it.

Good luck!

A BC

Sales opportunity We are looking for a self-employed, self-starter, with at least fifteen child-free hours a week available to sell advertising space in ABC Magazine to local businesses in Hampshire.

If you think you would enjoy this sales opportunity, are well presented and confident, enjoy talking to people, have a good standard of literacy and excellent organisational skills then give us a call!

Sales experience useful and references required.

You will need a land-line telephone, computer, access to email, your own car and lots of enthusiasm!

Call Rachel on 01273 552842 hampshire@abcmag.co.uk

www.abcmag.co.uk what Hampshire parents really want to read!

Your advertisement could have been in this space 15,000 times - all for only £150!

That’s 1p per copy!

Can you afford not to be in ABC? Call us now on (01273 ) 552842 to find out how we can make your business grow.

38 ABC Magazine - Hampshire

Numbers that count!

% % % %

HELPLINES

Samaritans 0845 790 9090 Childline 0800 1111 NSPCC 0800 800 5000 NHS Direct Helpline 0845 46 47 Child Benefit Enquiries 0845 302 1444 Department for Education 0870 000 2288 Gingerbread Helpline 0808 8020 925 La Leche League 0845 120 2918 Specialising in providing breastfeeding information (24 hour helpline) www.laleche.org.uk NCT Breastfeeding Line 0300 330 0771 NCT Pregnancy and Birth Line 0300 330 0772 The NCT offers help, support and advice. Breast feeding info and support, antenatal classes and postnatal groups in your local area.

BLISS 0500 618 140 National charity supporting parents with sick and premature babies.

Monday - Friday 9am-9pm.

The Compassionate Friends 0845 123 2304 Support for parents following the death of a child.

National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247 National Meningitis Helpline 0808 801 0388 Relate 0300 100 1234 Relationship guidance, support and advice.

The Informed Parent 01903 212969 Information on the vaccination debate. www.informedparent.co.uk Foundation for the study of infant death 0808 8026 868 Pre-school Learning Alliance 020 7697 2500 Asthma Helpline 0845 701 0203 MENCAP Learning Disability Helpline 0808 808 1111 SANDS 020 7436 5881 Still Birth and Neonatal Death Society Kidscape 0845 120 5204 For parents, concerned relatives and friends of bullied children.

Cry-sis 0845 122 8669 Support for families with excessively crying, sleepless and demandin babies.

Winston's Wish 08452 03 04 05 Helping bereaved children rebuild their lives after a family death.

RIGHTS & BENEFITS Jobcentre Plus 0845 606 0234 Income Tax Helpline 0300 200 3200 Working/Child Tax Credit 0845 300 3900 Child Benefit Enquiries 0845 302 1444

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAUX

Andover 01264 365534 Basingstoke 0844 2451283 Gosport and Fareham 0844 477 2232 New Milton 0844 499 4136 East Hampshire 08444 111306 Romsey 01794 516378 Southampton 023 8022 1406 Winchester 01962 848000 Yateley 01252 878410

OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS

Hampshire Police HQ 0845 045 4545 Frank About Drugs 0800 776 600 Family Lives 023 80557130 Providing help and support to anyone caring for children

TRAVEL

Gatwick Airport 0844 892 0322 Heathrow Airport 0844 335 1801 National Express 0871 781 8181 Southampton Airport 0844 481 7777 Stagecoach 0845 121 0190 National Rail Enquiries 0845 748 4950

HOSPITALS

Royal Hampshire County 01962 863535 Romsey Hospital 01794 834700 Princess Anne Hospital 023 8077 7222 Priory Hospital Marchwood 023 8084 0044 Alton Community Hospital 01420 82811 Basingstoke & North Hampshire NHS Foundation Trust 01256 473202

Numbers that count!

Page-by-page directory shopping & services This Directory has been created to help ensure easy reference to the businesses which support ABC. All ABC advertisers are also listed on our website with a direct link to their website.

Activity Classes

Aquababies Hampshire 01273 833101

5

www.aquababies-uk.com

After School Education Fleet Tutors Hampshire 0845 644 5452

18

Tadley Kumon Study Centre 17 Tadley 01189 701 684

www.kumon.co.uk/tadley BabyExpo Guildford, Surrey

OBC

www.babyexpobabyshow.co.uk Little Pickles Markets Southampton

23

Childcare

Hampshire Childcare & Family Information Team 7 Hampshire 0845 603 5620

www.fid.hants.gov.uk 27 08447 367 367

Craft Parties

Queenies Craft Emporium 29 Hampshire 07905 672 014

www.queeniescraftemporium.co.uk Fleet Tutors Hampshire 0845 644 5452

18

www.fleet-tutors.co.uk SEN Legal Services Nationwide 01273 311442

11

www.sen-legal-services.co.uk Tadley Kumon Study Centre 17 Tadley 01189 701 684

www.kumon.co.uk/tadley

37

Nurseries & Pre-School Education Rookwood School Andover 01264 325900

27

08447 367 367

St Nicholas’ School Fleet 01252 850 121

Family Information Services

www.st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

Hampshire Childcare & Family Information Team 7 Hampshire 0845 603 5620

Photography

www.fid.hants.gov.uk

www.robpaulstudios.com

Holiday Accommodation Pearly Grey Ocean Club Nationwide 0161 408 0139

33

Fleet Tutors Hampshire 0845 644 5452

18

Utility Warehouse Nationwide 0800 458 0618

IFC

www.easysaveandspend.co.uk Rookwood School Andover 01264 325900

13

15

Swimming Classes

15

QualitySolicitors Clarke & Son 9 Basingstoke 01256 320555

www.qualitysolicitors.com/clarkeandson

5

www.aquababies-uk.com 30

Utility Supplier

Utility Warehouse Nationwide 0800 458 0618

IFC

www.easysaveandspend.co.uk

www.tickledfrog.co.uk BabyExpo Guildford, Surrey

OBC

www.babyexpobabyshow.co.uk 23

www.littlepicklesmarkets.co.uk Mottisfont Near Romsey 01794 340757

25

Watercress Line New Alresford 01962 733810

24

Private Tuition

Fleet Tutors Hampshire 0845 644 5452

18

www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Legal Advice

www.qualitysolicitors.com/clarkeandson Aquababies Hampshire 01273 833101

www.watercressline.co.uk

www.st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

SEN Legal Services Nationwide 01273 311442

QualitySolicitors Clarke & Son 9 Basingstoke 01256 320555

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont

www.rookwood.hants.sch.uk St Nicholas’ School Fleet 01252 850 121

13

Tickled Frog Photography 31 Hampshire 07545 234 155

Little Pickles Markets Southampton

www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Homes & Gardens

Rob Paul Studios Havant 023 9245 5255

Places To Visit

www.perlagris.com

Solicitors

www.rookwood.hants.sch.uk

www.sitters.co.uk

Independent Schools

www.sitters.co.uk

Educational Support

Sitters Nationwide

Home Tuition

www.littlepicklesmarkets.co.uk

Sitters Nationwide

Vicki King Nationwide 01962 850 303

Evening Babysitting

www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

Baby Shows

Employment

Railways

Watercress Line New Alresford 01962 733810

24

www.watercressline.co.uk 11

www.sen-legal-services.co.uk

is FREE

and will remain so as long as the advertisers are aware of THE magazine that Hampshire parents read!

Please mention ABC when replying to adverts, give copies to your friends, and help spread the word!

This directory is to help ensure easy reference to the local businesses which support ABC. It is also a list of where you can pick up a free copy 90% of advertisers also distribute the magazine.

www.abcmag.co.uk ABC Magazine is also available on-line as an interactive, easy-to-read and search digital magazine with all our advertisers benefitting from a direct link to their website.

ABC Magazine - Hampshire 39

Leisure Directory SPORTS & LEISURE

CINEMAS

Aldershot West End Centre

Alton Palace Cinema Basingstoke VUE Portsmouth Odeon VUE Southampton Cineworld Harbour Lights Picture House Odeon Winchester Everyman

01252 330040 01420 82303 0871 224 0240 0871 224 4007 0871 224 0240 0871 200 2000 0871 704 2060 0871 224 4007 0871 906 9060

THEATRES

Aldershot Princes Hall ANDOVER The Lights Theatre Basingstoke The Anvil FAREHAM Ferneham Hall Southampton Mayflower Theatre Nuffield Theatre SOUTHSEA Kings Theatre Winchester Theatre Royal

01252 329155 01264 368368 01256 844244 01329 824864 023 8071 1811 023 8067 1771 023 9282 8282 01962 844600

MAIN LIBRARIES

Hampshire is fortunate to have many local libraries, (too many to list here!) so to find your nearest please call the Central Contact number on 0845 6035631

Aldershot Aldershot Pools Complex Alton Alton Sports Centre ANDOVER Andover Leisure Centre Basingstoke Basingstoke Aquadrome BORDON Millchase Leisure Centre FLEET Hart Leisure Centre PETERSFIELD Taro Leisure Centre Portsmouth Mountbatten Centre The Pyramids Winchester River Park Leisure Centre YATELEY Frogmore Leisure Centre Yateleys Health & Fitness

01252 323482 01420 540040 01264 347100 01256 472343 01420 472549 01252 629974 01730 263996 023 9262 6500 023 9279 9977 01962 848700 01252 873454 01252 746962

MUSEUMS

Alton Jane Austen's Museum ANDOVER Museum Basingstoke Basing House Milestones BROCKENHURST Beaulieu EASTLEIGH Eastleigh Museum FORDINGBRIDGE Breamore House Rockbourne Roman Villa

01420 83262 01264 366283 0845 603 5635 01256 477766

HAVANT Spring Arts Heritage Centre LYNDHURST The New Forest Centre PETERSFIELD Petersfield Museum Portsmouth Charles Dickens Birthplace Portsmouth City Museum Southampton The Maritime Museum Winchester The Westgate Museum Royal Hampshire Regiment Museum

023 9247 2700 023 8028 3444 01730 262601 023 9282 7261 023 9282 7261 023 8022 3941 01962 869864 01962 863658

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRES Aldershot Fareham Gosport Hayling Island Lyndhurst East Hampshire Portsmouth Romsey Winchester

01252 320968 01329 221342 023 9252 2944 023 9246 7111 023 8028 2269 01730 268829 023 9282 6722 01794 512987 01962 840500

01590 612345 023 8064 3026 01725 512468 01725 518541

...priceless information for Hampshire parents!

Parent & Toddler / Playgroup Directory Offering you and your child the chance to meet new local friends.

If you run a Mother & Toddler Group or Playgroup which you'd like to advertise to ABC readers, please contact us by email - hampshire@abcmag.co.uk and let us help you to 'spread the word'!

Catherington WHERE? Kingscourt School, Five Heads Road, Catherington, Hampshire Tel: 023 92 593251 WHEN? Fri 2-3.15pm (term-time) COST? FREE INCLUDED? Craft, messy activities, stories, songs, music, drinks and biscuits as well as an outdoor play area.

Fareham WHERE? Hillson Tots Parent & Toddler Group, St Columa Church, Hillson Drive, Fareham Tel: 01329 313368 WHEN? Thurs 1.15-2.45pm (term-time) COST? £2.00 per family INCLUDED? Good range of toys, crafts, activities and refreshments.

WHERE? Little Fish Toddler Group, Holy Rood Church, Fareham Tel: 01329 667091 WHEN? Wed 9:30-11:30am Thurs 10-11.30am (term-time) COST? £1.50 per session INCLUDES? Crafts, storytime, singing.

Includes a drink and fruit.

40 ABC Magazine - Hampshire

Havant WHERE? Mini multiples, twins, triplets St Nicholas Church, Bedhampton, near Havant Tel: 023 9243 9185 WHEN? Mon 9.30-11:30am (exc bank holidays) COST? £2 per family per session INCLUDES? Crafts, play, refreshments, singing.

Hythe WHERE? Little Stars Parent & Toddler Group, Hythe Parish Hall, Hythe Tel: 023 8089 9212 WHEN? Mon 9.30-11.15am (term-time) COST? £1.50 first child, 50p each additional child INCLUDES? Drinks for adults, drink and snack for children. Toys, activities, area for riding cars and trikes.

Southampton WHERE? Bouncing Babies Gordon Hall, 19 Brook Road, Bitterne, Southampton.

Tel: 07765 380144 WHEN? Tues 12.45-3.15pm COST? Free

INCLUDES? Good range of toys, art craft table, baby area, trikes ride-on toys and music. Refreshments available.

WHERE? The Nest Children's Centre Stay and Play, Hedge End, Southampton Tel: 01489 796395 WHEN? Thurs 1.45-3.15pm (term-time) COST? Free INCLUDES? Toys, crafts, singing and an outdoor play area.

West Wellow WHERE? Wellow Jellytots Playgroup West Wellow Village Hall, Buttons Lane, West Wellow Tel: 07760 223 136 WHEN? Mon 9.30-11.30am (term-time) COST? £1.50 per family INCLUDES? Crafts, puzzles, outside play, music, singing and parachute.

Southsea WHERE? Playdays, 29 Wimbledon Park Road, Southsea Tel: 023 9282 8480 WHEN? Thurs 9.30-11.30am COST? Free INCLUDES? Art, music, messy play and storytime.

Winchester WHERE? The Carroll Centre, Somers Close, Stanmore, Winchester, Hampshire, SO22 4EJ Tel: 01962 840022 WHEN? Thursdays 10.30am-12.30pm COST? £2 per family INCLUDES? Ride-on cars and trikes, craft, giant connect 4, drink/snacks, story and songs, outdoor play sessions.

WHERE? Portsmouth High Junior School, 36 Kent Road, Southsea Tel: 023 9282 6714.

WHEN? Wednesday 9.30-11am COST? £2.00 per session.

INCLUDES? A range of play and craft activities, story times, outdoor play sessions and refreshments.

WHERE? The United Church Toddler Group, Jewry Street, Winchester Tel: 01962 849559 WHEN? Tues (term-time) 2-3.30pm COST? £1 per family INCLUDES? A good range of toys, baby area, crafts, singing, drinks and biscuits for adults and children.

Do com e and see ABC we are on stan d 211...