Families Solent East May/June 2024 PRINT issue

Discover Dragonflies Pre-School at Ditcham Park School

Nestled in the heart of the South Downs National Park, with views out to the Isle of Wight and acres of woodland to explore, you will find Dragonflies Pre-school, part of Ditcham Park School.

Taking children from rising three to five, Dragonflies provides a nurturing play-lead environment for your child to grow and flourish through those critical early years. Whilst the children are encouraged to learn through play, they are also gently guided through phonic and numerical foundations to ensure they hit the ground running in Reception.

Ditcham is a school that firmly believes children learn best when they are happy and secure – many pupils stay right through to Year 11.

If you are looking for the best place to start your child’s education, it’s time to discover what a ‘wonder-full’ learning environment Dragonflies Pre-school is.

Find out more at the next Open Morning on Saturday 11 May or visit www.ditchampark.com

Join Perform for magic and adventure this summer!

Perform’s confidence-building summer term classes are off to a flying start with a new venue in Chichester - there’s no better time for your child to try a class.

Packed with self-esteem boosting activities, these weekly classes are the best fun of the week for every type of child. They help reticent children develop confidence in their abilities and provide an outlet for energetic children to sing, dance and make friends. The curriculum is focused on building the 4Cs - confidence, communication, concentration and coordinationusing drama games, improvisation, role-play, catchy songs and funky dances.

This summer term, age 4-7s are entering the Fairytale Forest for an adventure based on favourite well-known stories and age 7-12s are blasting off on a journey with Robinson Crusoe where he gets stranded in space!

Classes run locally in Chichester, Fareham, Petersfield, Southsea and Waterlooville. Every child is welcome to try a FREE class. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try

*** Special offer for Families readers ***

Perform Chichester has opened at St Michael’s Church Hall, PO19 6PN with classes every Monday. Any bookings made by 31st May will receive a 25% discount - quote CHIC310524.

School

Open Days Summer 2024

Open days may need pre-booking. Please check before visiting.

Ditcham Park School

Nr Petersfield, GU31 5RN 01730 825659

ditchampark.com

Open Morning

Saturday 11 May

Call or book online.

Meoncross School Fareham, PO14 2EF meoncross.co.uk

Open Mornings

Wednesday 17 May (Upper School)

Tuesday 25 June (Lower School)

Portsmouth Grammar School Portsmouth, PO1 2LN 02392 360036 pgs.org.uk

Pre-School & Junior School:

Tuesday 4 June

Senior School:

Tuesday 21 May

Tuesday 20 June

Portsmouth High School Southsea, PO5 3EQ 02392 824916

portsmouthhigh.co.uk

Morning Drop-In Session

Saturday 15 June

Space Experience Day

Saturday 15 June 10am-12noon

Call or book online.

Ryde School with Upper Chine

Isle of Wight. PO33 3BE 01983 617970

rydeschool.org.uk

Please call the school for the latest dates or register online.

To feature your school in our next issue, call Claire on 07812 218331.

Supporting your child’s memory retention

By Erin Miller

Does your child struggle to remember things they have learnt at school? Cognitive science can help us to understand how our children’s brains work and how they will learn best.

In order to remember, we need to store information in our longterm memory. Around thirty years ago, Australian psychologist John Sweller published a paper which has significantly advanced our understanding of how information passes from the working memory into the long-term memory. The theory that came from his work is called Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) and it is worth having a basic understanding of the theory, so that we can support our children when they are struggling to remember information they learn.

When a child first learns new information, it is held in their working memory. The working memory is limited and if it is overloaded, it becomes very difficult to transfer that information into the long-term memory.

Sweller estimated that only five to nine items can be held in the working memory at any one time. Interestingly, it is thought that the long-term memory is unlimited in its capacity. So, to give your child the best chances of success in both formal exams and in being creative, we must help them to shift information into their long-term memories. Once information is stored there, it can be retrieved when it is needed and has therefore been learnt.

The golden rule is to not overload a child’s working memory. A teaching method called ‘chunking’ is now helping children to

Why memorisation matters

Memorisation has a somewhat bad reputation and can seem out of date. We automatically associate memorisation with dingy classrooms where rote learning takes place: think chanting times tables or learning endless French verb endings.

Instinctively, we want something more exciting for our children than simply memorising information when they are at school. However, in order to be creative, our children do need to memorise information. For example, creativity in story writing cannot occur without a child having information about narratives and banks of exciting vocabulary stored in their long term-memories.

With the whole world of information now available with just a few keyboard taps, thanks to the likes of Google and increasingly ChatGPT, it might be tempting to think that memorisation is not as important as it used to be or even necessary. However, for the reasons explained above and for the fact that our children are still assessed (in SATs and GCSEs) essentially on what they remember, we can conclude that memorisation is as important today as it ever was.

retain information for longer. Chunking involves breaking down information into smaller (bitesize) chunks. By focusing on just one idea at a time, children are able to digest and recall the information.

Whilst this may sound simple and even obvious, breaking down information into chunks can be tricky, as they often need to be even smaller than you might imagine. For example, in answering a question about history, consider how many bits of micro information that your child will need. Try to keep information in the five to nine range.

Ultimately, CLT has helped educators to design learning to support the way that children’s brains work. This is, of course, largely the job of your child’s teacher. However, when parents understand and arm themselves with this knowledge, they can use it to support their child’s learning at home and help them flourish at school.

Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.

Start by removing the technical distractions

Working memory is proof of our limited attention span. Our children are surrounded by modern technology which can overload their brains. Webpages and apps with lots of functions, images and options are likely to overload cognitive capability; research has shown us that simpler designs work better when it comes to memory.

Therefore, when you’re focusing on getting your child to remember something, try to eliminate distractions. This starts with removing technology. A mini whiteboard at home can be helpful in presenting just one piece of information at a time.

Where technology is necessary for the learning task, ensure only the relevant window is open. When messages or notifications are popping up, this takes up space in your child’s working memory. Multi-tasking is a myth when it comes to learning and remembering new information.

Ultimately, when your child is struggling to understand or remember something, one of the most helpful things you can do is to remove technology and start working on paper.

Developing skills for good school performance

By Gail Hugman

Many parents worry about their children underachieving or not reaching the expected level by the time they leave primary school or sit 11+ exams but there is good news. By developing your child’s skills it may be easier to improve their performance than you might think.

Research has shown that to be our most effective as learners, we need to develop a specific set of skills known as executive function skills.

Don’t be put off by the name! You have all these skills. Some of you will be brilliant at them, others less so but you will not be a stranger to them.

We are all born with the potential to develop these skills over time but they are not specifically taught as part of the curriculum in school, even though they are critical for effective learning and for everything we do in life.

Where do you start? Self-control, focus and attention, organisation, memory (especially working memory), planning, time management, critical thinking, task initiation, perseverance and flexibility can all be taught.

As a basic minimum, when children go to school, they need to be able to control themselves, concentrate and listen. If any of these skills are weak, it is likely to be flagged up in the child’s school report.

Being able to boil an egg does not mean you can produce a gourmet meal! Likewise, being able to ‘sit up straight, look at the teacher and fold your arms,’ do not alone make you a good listener. Each skill - gourmet cooking AND listening - is a complex series of things we need to co-ordinate to accomplish a result.

By understanding the skills as a process, we can break down everything that needs to happen. For example, to be a good listener, we need to be able to stop what we’re doing, focus and make eye contact. This last may not be easy for children who are overwhelmed by eye contact, so use discretion.

Saturday Drop-in

Saturday 15 June 10am to 12pm

Personal tours, meet staff and have your questions answered. Register online.

PRE-SCHOOL  PREP  SENIOR  SIXTH

Proper listening also involves cognitive skills: to concentrate, wait, reflect, make connections with reference, take in and sort information and finally, to respond appropriately.

Can your child stop what they’re doing when they’re asked? If not, work on it for a week and tell them that’s the target. Take each part of the process and focus on it until they get it.

Stages to encourage skill development

Define what your child is aiming to achieve; Explain the benefits of growing that skill to your child; Explain the downside of not having the skill in life; Create opportunities for your child to get feedback on how they’re doing with it;

Congratulate small successes! The feedback you give your child helps their brain to get it right and consolidate it.

Support your child’s independence by focusing on developing their core skills as they progress through primary school. Find ways to work together with your child to use everyday life for working on the growing skills.

Plan homework; time activities; organise spelling; and practise self-control.

Gail Hugman is proprietor of Lessons Alive (www.lessonsalive. com) and author of A Short and Simple Book for the Why’s, 100 Things to Learn before you’re 10, plus the soon to be published Making the Pennies Drop, which shows parents exactly how to teach key skills to their children.

Space Experience Day

For girls in Year 5 now

Saturday 15 June 9am to 12pm

Girls currently in Year 5 are invited to prepare for launch into senior school and join us for a morning of lessons and fun. Book your daughter’s place now via the school website.

Top new children’s books from around the world

By Sarah Campbell

FOR AGES 5+

From bustling African cities to the Australian Outback via Asian high seas, these extraordinary stories will transport children around the world, broadening their horizons and inspiring empathy and understanding along the way. The following recommendations are for young readers ages 5 to 12.

Too Small Tola Makes It Count by

Atinuke

Tola may be small but she’s very determined! This collection of three connected, fun stories feature Tola’s life in bustling Lagos with her clever sister, speedy brother and bossy grandmummy. Discover how there really is no problem too big for Too Small Tola. Ages 5+.

The Last Mapmaker

by Christina Soontornvat

Follow Sai, a 12-year-old heroine who is seeking to chart her own destiny in a world of secrets. Taking off for a thrilling high-seas expedition, this is a vivid adventure set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world. Ages 8+.

One Chance Dance

by Efua Traor

Lagos is no place for a boy and a bush baby but things start to look up when young Jomi meets a crew of street kids and together they come up with a plan. A heart-warming story of friendship, wonder and dance set in lively Nigeria. Ages 8+.

Sona

Sharma, Wish Me Luck

by Chitra Soundar, illustrated by Jen Khatun

Sona Sharma lives in India with her busy family, where she learns about the ups and downs of family, friendship and life. A warm and gentle illustrated chapter book set in colourful India, packed with empathy and humour. Ages 5+.

Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear Trang

by Trang Nguyen & Jeet Zdung

Written by scientist and environmental activist Trang Nguyen, this inspirational graphic novel is based on a true story about a young conservationist who overcomes the odds to save a sun bear in Vietnam. Ages 8+.

The Boy Who Saved a Bear

by Nizrana Farook

A boy and a big, hairy bear meet, become friends and have the adventure of their lives, thwarting the plans of some very dangerous thieves. Young animal lovers will be gripped by this adventure set in a fictional Sri Lanka. Another brilliant escapade from the author of The Girl Who Stole an Elephant. Ages 8+.

The Midnighters by Hana Tooke, illustrated by Ayesha I. Rubio

A ghostly tale about two friends, one murder mystery and a world of intrigue. I love the mysterious, richly gothicinspired European setting of this entertaining and magical adventure. Find out what it takes to find the courage to be extraordinary. Ages 5+.

The Song Walker

by Zillah Bethel

A girl is found wandering through the Australian outback with mismatched shoes and a violin case. This great adventure with a twist is an extraordinary, spiritual story of friendship, discovery and courage. Ages 8+.

Momo

Arashima Steals the Sword of the Wind

by Misa Sugiura

Momo just wants an ordinary life but she is half human, half Shinto goddess and evil spirits are threatening to escape and destroy humanity. A thrilling Japanese-inspired fantasy adventure full of action, adventure and even a talking fox. Ages 9+.

an online children’s bookshop offering

children’s chapter books, plus an award-winning monthly book subscription for

5 to 14.

Sarah Campbell is co-founder of Parrot Street Book Club (www.parrotstreet.com),

a handpicked collection of high-quality

ages

Choosing a reading book

By Zuzu Jordan

‘I don’t like reading’ are words parents dread to hear and battle to change and in such households, reading can become a non-negotiable, timed and recorded homework chore. Yet we all strive to mould children who want to read, for pleasure, which becomes increasingly difficult to achieve when we have to compete with modern devices.

So how do we encourage a love for reading and books?

It starts with knowing how to match reading material to the child. When children are given complete free rein in choosing a book, sometimes it can be overwhelming.

Forgive the cliché but they often ‘judge a book by its cover’ or pick a book they find too challenging to actually read and end up giving up on it all together. Children need just as much support in choosing a book as they do reading one.

Try some of these techniques next time they seem stuck in choosing something:

Five finger rule. Ask them to read the first page of a book. If they struggle to read more than five words on that page then the book doesn’t suit them YET!

Try different genres. Not all reading has to be fictional. Expose children to non-fiction in the form of child-friendly newspapers or information text on a subject they might be interested in.

Find an author your child likes and research other works by the same author.

Audio books

Technology has progressed so much in recent years that playing audio books for children has become easier. Although as parents we would like them to actually read the book, there are many benefits to listening to someone else reading.

Of course, children need to develop the ability to decode words and read independently with stamina. But audio books can be convenient and just as portable as the paper versions. In fact, you can carry more books in your pocket when they are in an audio format and take them anywhere: in the car, bedroom, aeroplane and even the bath!

A narrated story can increase your child’s interest in a book, particularly if different voices narrate the characters.

Audio books also help with language development as children will naturally be exposed to more vocabulary and books that they may not be able to read yet.

Reading along with the audio is a great tip! If you all listen to the same audio book, you can share the same experiences which naturally opens up dialogue.

Listen to the audio version. Listening to someone else read can motivate children to read the book themselves.

Use organisations like Book Trust and CLPE (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education) which have created recommended book lists for different age groups.

Find out what they are reading in school. What other books are similar? Which other books did the same author write?

Meet the author. Getting a signed copy and meeting the author can encourage children to read. Look out for events at your local book shop.

Apply for the Blue Peter Book Badge which requires children to read a book and submit a review.

Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find her on Instagram at edumate_uk

Eco birthday gifts

By Tamsin Ryan

At a time when we are all trying to reduce the amount of plastic we consume, it seems toymakers and our little ones are against us every step of the way, filling our homes with plastic toys and gadgets everywhere we look. Moreover, these colourful and joyous pieces of plastic often provide precious little fun before they are pushed aside for the next in line.

When the inevitable birthday party season comes along, gifting something that is a little kinder to the planet might also provide some longer lasting fun.

Garden games are a long standing favourite gift. They are great for getting kids outside and provide the opportunity for lots of family fun. Lovely wooden games such as quoits, Jenga and skittles will provide years of fun and last a lifetime.

Books are often overlooked but can be such meaningful and enjoyable gifts. Favourite stories can be read and loved again and again and then passed onto siblings, friends or the next generation. Alternatively, a book token gives children the fun of browsing a real bookshop.

No presents! If you are having a party for your child, you may just want to ask for no presents at all, if you feel your child has more than enough. Alternatively, ask everyone to bring along a book that they have enjoyed reading and then do a book swap, so everyone goes home with a gift.

Preloved gifts are also a great option. As children often outgrow their toys before they really get a chance to play with them, you can find plenty of preloved toys that are like new. You save money, kids barely know the difference between new and preloved and aren’t bothered anyway. Try nearly new sales, charity shops or school fairs. If you’re short on time, www.rumage. com can search all your favourite marketplaces for you and filter by location so you can find a seller nearby, saving on postage.

Lasting gifts. A subscription is a gift that keeps on giving, perhaps a monthly magazine or a craft box.

Non-physical gifts. Instead of stuff and more stuff, consider a fun day out or an experience that the whole family can enjoy or some dance, music or sports classes. Another idea is an annual (family) membership to a local amusement park, museum or similar, which means your gift can be enjoyed again and again throughout the year.

‘Fiver’ parties are also rising in popularity and it’s easy to see why. They reduce the pressure on parents to search for the perfect gift and also mean the birthday child can use the combined monies to buy a meaningful gift that they would really like.

For more birthday tips, read Tamsin’s blog at www.icecreamandjelly.com or check out her Instagram page @icecreamandjelly_uk

Handmade and upcycled presents add a really personal touch. You can make something bespoke that will be unique to the lucky recipient. Previously I’ve upcycled a scooter and a guitar for my daughter, which have been loved and adored.

Whatever gift you decide to go with, by consciously avoiding new plastic and making sustainable choices, your biggest gift will be to the planet - and thus the future of the birthday child. What more could they ask for?

Birthday traditions

By Tamsin Ryan

The lovely thing about birthday traditions is that they don’t have to be big and expensive to be really fun and meaningful. They’re all about creating lasting memories and providing the perfect opportunity for a family photo, captured every year to see your family grow and change.

In our household, we have a ‘birthday book’ for our daughter. Every year we fill out a new page with what makes her special; from her favourite food or toy, to what she wants to be when she grows up. It’s going to make a lovely book to look back on in years to come! She also opens her presents first thing in the morning, before we’ve even got out of bed. Later, we’ll eat out with wider family members, at the favourite ‘fancy’ restaurant that we always go to for birthday celebrations.

Another great bonus of family traditions is that they can potentially replace the need for an all-singing, all-dancing birthday party. Sometimes quality time with the ones we love is more than enough and parties can take a back seat.

Here are a few fun ideas for you:

Add decorations and leave their presents at the end of your child’s bed, while they sleep. A lovely surprise when they wake!

Write your child a letter every year for their birthday, for a lovely keepsake when they are older. Or they could write something each year for a time capsule of their letters and drawings.

Write little post-it notes for the birthday child and hide them round their room, the house, in their school bag and their lunchbox.

Ask the birthday child to donate a toy of theirs to charity before they receive any new gifts. It’s a lovely way for them to acknowledge how lucky they are to receive gifts on their birthday and also clears some space to accommodate any new gifts.

Prepare a fantastic birthday breakfast feast, such as piles of pancakes covered in fruit, syrup and cream. Or maybe just start the day the best way - with birthday cake!

Something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read. Gifting the birthday child with these is a lovely way to celebrate a birthday in a more grounded way.

Plan a scavenger hunt around the house and garden and ask the birthday child to solve clues in order to hunt down their gifts.

Offer a ‘yes’ day, where you agree to all requests from the birthday child. You may want to have a few ‘safety’ caveats for this day, to ensure certain requests are out of bounds.

Send their birthday card in the post, even if you are all at home; it’s always fun to receive mail.

It’s time for summer camps

By Ellie Malt

I once spent a freakishly hot week in the summer holidays learning to sail near the Isle of Wight. As a tween, I was dazzled by the teenaged sailing instructors who seemed endlessly cool. I’m not saying my sailing skills were Olympian but it felt like a modern version of Swallows and Amazons. The sense of freedom and adventure was amazing. My point? Any programme run with experience and enthusiasm can be more than just a childcare solution.

Holiday camps can be daunting and my children enjoy them more if they go with a friend. Perhaps the pandemic made them cautious? Having asked around, it seems they are not the only ones.

Jenny, a mother of a 7 and 9-year-old told me: ‘My kids weren’t interested in going at all but three hours at a tennis camp turned out to be a good first step.’ Half-day camps are a great introduction to camp life.

It’s also important to think carefully before automatically sending siblings to the same camp. ‘Choose carefully!’ warned Maggie, who has two girls with very different interests. ‘I sent both of mine off to the same sports camp. At the end of the first day, one came home on top of the world, the other refused to go back.’

If it is your child’s first time at a summer camp, you can ease their worries by choosing something that really dovetails nicely with their hobbies and personality.

If you think a tech camp might hit the mark, try something with a more specialist focus on robotics, coding and inventions. Next Thing Education run programmes across the UK led

Budget-friendly options

If your child is under 11-years-old, you may qualify for a Tax-Free Childcare account (which you can set up on the Government Gateway website). The government contributes £2 for every £8 you put into the account. To spend the money on a summer camp you will need your unique reference number from your account.

Many camps still accept childcare vouchers. The schemes are closed to new applicants but are still valid if you joined on or before 4 October 2018.

The Summer Camps Trust (www.summercampstrust.org) charity aims to make residential summer camp as normal for UK children as it is for kids in the US. Offering access to kids from all backgrounds, their Tryout camps offer reduced rates for first timers.

The Holiday Activity and Food programme (HAF) is a government-funded holiday camp programme offering free places to any child who is eligible for free school meals. Head to your local authority website and search for HAF. Note that each area has a different name for its HAF funded programmes.

by professional creators, inventors and tech enthusiasts. The children learn creative, technical and logical skills. See www.nextthing.education for details.

For outdoorsy kids, summer is the perfect opportunity to immerse them in the most inspiring local scenery.

Do you live near a woodland? Forest Schools are ideal for nature loving kids, encouraging play alongside learning bushcraft skills, all in a natural setting. You can find your nearest by looking on the database of the Forest School Association which ensures site leaders have Forest School L3 qualifications or equivalent. Visit www.forestschoolassociation.org for details.

If you are heading to the coast for a holiday or even a short break and your child can swim and enjoys being in the water, a surf school is a good option to consider. Surfing England (www.surfingengland.org) has a list of more than fifty accredited surf schools and coaches. They’ve also created the Grom Squad programme for kids to learn about protecting the environment and sea safety.

Ellie is a mum of two daughters, living in Surrey.

Questions to ask

Here are some important questions to ask when choosing a camp.

Is it Ofsted registered? If it runs for more than four hours in one day, Ofsted registration is compulsory.

What is the ratio of staff to children? For children ages 3 to 8, the camp should have a 1 to 8 ratio. For children ages 8+, a 1 to 10 ratio is recommended.

Ask if staff are enhanced DBS checked (Disclosure and Barring Service, formerly the Criminal Records Bureau or CRB) and who is the designated safeguarding lead.

If high-risk activities are included, double check the camp is accredited by the relevant association.

Check the instructors and staff have the relevant qualifications for the activities. Many camps employ teens who add a fun dimension but they should always be overseen by professionally qualified staff.

How does it handle medications and food allergies? What are the procedures if your child becomes ill or in an emergency? Will there always be a trained first aider on site?

Involving your kids in social action

By Anoushka Freeman

In a world where compassion and empathy are invaluable qualities, parents play a crucial role in shaping their children into responsible and caring individuals. Engaging in social action with your children helps to instil these lifelong values and more. Plus it can be a great way to spend quality family time. Here’s how you can meaningfully involve your kids in social action.

Never too young to talk

Start conversations early. While young children might not grasp complex global issues, introducing the concept of kindness, empathy and helping others sets the foundation for a compassionate mindset. Use age-appropriate language and share stories that illustrate the power of positive actions.

Maximise everyday kindness

Use everyday activities. Teach your children the significance of small acts that make a difference, like picking up litter or turning off lights. These simple actions help normalise active citizenship.

Lead by example

Children learn best through example. Showcase the values you want to instil by actively participating in social action yourself. Whether giving to a charity, helping a neighbour or volunteering your time, your actions provide a powerful model for your kids to emulate. Wherever possible, take the opportunity to include your children in the activity. For example, if you are donating to charity, explain why you chose the charity and what impact your donation may have.

Explore different ways to help

Expose your children to a variety of social action opportunities such as going on litter picks or writing to MPs about causes they care about. This not only broadens their understanding of societal needs but also allows them to discover where their passions lie in making a positive impact.

Empower children to choose

Invite your children to choose a cause that resonates with them. Support them in researching, investigating and exploring different areas of interest. This empowers them to take ownership of their social action and enhances their critical thinking skills.

Commit to it

Establish a dedicated time for social action in your family routine. This commitment can be reinforced through accountability

Get inspired

10-year-old Liam Hannon’s dad set him the challenge of doing something to give back to his community. After some discussion, Liam settled on helping homeless people. He enlisted his dad to help him make and distribute sandwiches, each with a special handwritten note or drawing.

By spreading the word to friends, family and through social media, donations and offers of help poured in. The duo has gone from distributing forty bags in their first week to hundreds of bags per week!

measures, such as creating a charity jar that accumulates funds in response to helping with chores around the house. This encourages consistency and also reinforces the value of sharing one’s time, treasure and talent to help others.

Make traditions

Incorporate social action into family traditions. Whether it’s creating Christmas shoeboxes, donating to a food bank or including a charity birthday wish list, these traditions instil a sense of purpose and giving that extends beyond individual actions.

Reflect and celebrate

Social action should not be a one-off event. Keep the conversation alive by discussing ongoing initiatives and celebrating their impact. This continuous dialogue helps children understand the long-term impact of their actions.

Spending time working towards a shared goal is a brilliant way to strengthen family connection. When that shared goal helps others, such as in the case of social action, you are also helping to nurture compassionate, responsible and socially aware individuals. These values will last for life; research shows that young people who engage in meaningful social action are twice as habitually philanthropic in later life.

So by following these practical steps, you are actively shaping the next generation of change-makers!

Anoushka Freeman represents www.superkind.org, the social action and charity platform for young people who want to be change-makers. Find free resources to help young people learn, be inspired and get empowered to make a positive difference to their communities and the world.

Benefits of social action

Studies have shown that social action has a vast array of benefits for young people who take part in it. It builds empathy, resilience, leadership and teamwork. It has been linked to higher grades and lower truancy and can help hugely with employability.

Research from the Cabinet Office showed that engaging in social action lowered anxiety levels in young people by over twenty percent. It’s even been shown to chemically contribute to happiness levels through the release of endorphins – the socalled ‘helpers’ high.’

What's On Your family guide to

All listings correct at the time of going to print. Please check with the venue before visiting to ensure events are still going ahead and the venues are open.

DIARY DATES

Ongoing Treasure Trails

Across South East Hampshire and West Sussex treasuretrails.co.uk

A self-guided spy mission walking trail or treasure hunt inspired walk. Trails are 2 to 2.5 miles and take approximately two hours. Print a map at home or buy online.

Ongoing

‘50 Things’ Activities

The National Trust: nationaltrust.org.uk

Why not try some of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges? There’s something for every young explorer to do.

Ongoing

Gruffalo Party Trail

Alice Holt Forest, GU10 4LS forestryengland.uk/alice-holtforest

The interactive family trail features party-themed activities and games, along with fun facts to teach you about life in the forest for the Gruffalo and other creatures. Follow the trail to help find the missing party items. Pick up your pack for just £4, packed with fun things to do on your party adventure. 9am-4pm.

Ages 3-9.

Every Wed (term time only)

Mini Makers & Shakers

Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP, cft.org.uk

Brand new workshops and activities for Early Years. Take part in fun activities for 2-5 year olds. Choose from Storytime Rhymes, Little Artists and Mini Movers and be prepared to join in as each child will need a grown-up to enjoy the session with.

Every Thu & Sat

Family Fun

Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP, cft.org.uk

A weekly expansion of CFT’s familyfriendly spaces which invite you to bring your pre-schoolers and catch up with some parent pals. Children can discover toys, colouring-in and chalkboards, fancy dress and books in nooks, while grown-ups can indulge in delicious coffee and cake. Thu 10am–12pm, Sat 9am–12pm Ages 0-5. FREE.

Every Thu (term time only)

Little Notes

Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP, cft.org.uk

Take part in live music, led by classically-trained opera singer and musician Mark Bradbury from Little Notes. Ages 0-4.

Every Sat

Family Saturdays

Aspex Gallery, Portsmouth, PO1 3BF, aspex.org.uk

A different creative activity each week, from painting to model making - these free creative workshops are fun for all the family.

Wed 8 & Thu 9 May

Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book

New Theatre Royal, Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD newtheatreroyal.com

Based on the original book Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book – written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Come and delve into a range of books with Charlie Cook, brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs, and perhaps you will be able to help his sister discover the wonderful world inside a book. Ages 3-8.

Batala Portsmouth at Stansted Summer Festival

Sat 11 May

Coffee & Retro Games

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, GU32 3HX petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

From racing Mario and the gang in Super Mario on the game cube to protecting humans against Space Invaders on the Atari 2600, enjoy your favourite retro game consoles to play all day! 10am-3pm. FREE.

Sat 11 May to Mon 3 Jun

Mysteries & Mayhem

Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ winchestersciencecentre.org

Science spies and curious kids needed at Winchester Science Centre this May half term. Free Science Spy School live show and Forensics Hide and Seek activity trail as part of Mysteries & Mayhem. All visits must be booked in advance online and save 25% by booking seven or more days in advance. 9.30am-5pm.

Sat 11 & Sun 12 May

Comic Con Guildhall Guildhall Square, Portsmouth PO1 2AB portsmouthguildhall.org.uk

Meet the creators behind your favourite comics, delve into the works behind films and explore some of the biggest franchises around through an exciting range of panels, displays, workshops and exhibitions and shop an incredible selection of merchandise. 10am.

Sun 12 May

Nature Day

Gilbert White’s House & Gardens, Selborne, GU34 3JH gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

A family fun day with nature and conservation organisations for a day packed with family-friendly activities, crafts and workshops. Adults £10, children FREE. 10.30am-5pm.

Sun 12 May & Sun 9 Jun

Sunday Waterside Market

Port Solent, Portsmouth, PO6 4TP www.portsolent.com

Port Solent’s Sunday Waterside Markets are a must-visit. The market offers a diverse range of goods and services, from fresh produce and artisanal food products to handmade crafts and gifts. 11am-5pm.

Sat 18 & Sun 19 May

Battle for Britannia Butser Ancient Farm, PO8 0BG butserancientfarm.co.uk

Enjoy a full weekend of living history and spectacular battles, as the Romans and Celts defend their homes against a warband of invading Saxons from re-enactment group Herigeas Hundas. 10am-4pm.

Sun 19 May & Sun 16 Jun

Hampshire Farmers Market Southsea, PO5 3PS visitportsmouth.co.uk

Hampshire Farmers Markets brings beautiful, fresh local produce to Portsmouth and Southsea every month. Peruse delicious food and drink including honey, meat, beer, spirits and more. FREE.

Celebrating 30 years of The Garden Show

The Garden Show is celebrating 30 years in business this year. Set up by Jane Sterck and Lizzie Dymock as a forum for small businesses, growers, designers and artisans to promote their products to a local audience.

Set over three days, from Fri 7 to Sun 9 June (10am-5pm) at Stansted Park, the show offers a great day out for the whole family, with demonstrations of willow weaving, traditional chair and trug making, forging, painting, woodturning and more. There is a giant tombola, toddler fun fair and bouncy castles, Huxley Birds of Prey, circus skills and Punch and Judy. Save 15% when you book online in advance.

There is also a Garden Show at Broadlands, Romsey from Fri 26 to Sun 28 July from 10am-5pm. Book your tickets today! To find out more visit www.thegardenshows.com

Sat 25 May

Creative Saturday Workshop: Concertina Sketchbook

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, GU32 3HX petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Enjoy a fun, hands-on creative workshop and develop your creative talents in different materials and techniques. Make your own concertina sketchbook and fill it with collage and drawings. 10am-12pm. All ages.

Sat 25 May

You Are The Sun Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth PO1 2AB portsmouthguildhall.org.uk

You are the Sun is a very first opera for babies and grownups that explores the magic of nature. Combining the joy of gentle classical singing and sensory play, it is an invitation to see beauty in the smallest things and to let plants be our guides. 11am & 12.30pm.

Sat 25 May

Claytime!

The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, Havant PO9 1BS thespring.co.uk

The award-winning Indefinite Articles present their work for the very young: Claytime, a play with clay, where the audience are invited to participate. Come to a place where the earth’s natural material meets with children’s imaginations: a world of fabulous forms, amazing animals, and morphing monsters. 2pm. £10. Ages 3-6.

Sun 26 & Mon 27 May

Roman Re-enactment

Butser Ancient Farm, PO8 0BG butserancientfarm.co.uk

Discover Roman living history and combat re-enactments with the Butser IX Roman Legion. Find out what life would have been like in Roman Britain as you explore our open-air site. 10am-4pm.

Mon 27 May

Andy and the Odd Socks Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth PO1 2AB portsmouthguildhall.org.uk

Straight off the TV and onto the live stage, Andy and the Odd Socks bring their brilliant madcap mix of songs, slapstick and silliness to life with a show to entertain families. 2.30pm. Ages 3+.

Mon 27 May

Trainmaster

Sky Park Farm, Petersfield trainmaster.co.uk

Train lovers come and visit for an hour of play. Refreshments available.

Wed 29 May

Wonka

The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, Havant PO9 1BS thespring.co.uk

Film showing. 11am £6. PG.

Thu 30 May

Kids Club

Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Portsmouth, PO6 4TP portsolent.com/events/kids-club-7 Take flight into the summer half-term with an outstanding Birds of Prey Flying show. Witness the flying displays at 12pm and 3pm, then enjoy afternoon crafts with The Creation Station. 11am–4pm.

Thu 30 May & Thu 30 Jun

Relaxed Open Morning

Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth, PO1 SPY

maryrose.org

Relaxed open morning from 10am-12pm, where the lights in the museum will be at a higher level, and sound effects will be turned down. Suitable for SEN children.

JUNE

Fri 7 to Sun 9 Jun

The Garden Show Stansted Park, PO9 6DX thegardenshows.com

Set over three days, it features specialist growers, garden related goods, artisan designs, homeware products, fashion accessories and delicious country foods. There are talks, demonstrations, activities for young and old, expert advice and a variety of music and entertainment. 10am-5pm daily. Book online and save 15%.

Sat 8 Jun

Comic Con

Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Portsmouth, PO6 4TP portsolent.com/events/comic-con Immerse yourself in the thrilling Jurassic Park Zone, where you can encounter lifelike dinosaurs and embark on exciting adventures. Train with Jedi Masters and learn the ways of the Force or join forces

Stansted Summer Festival returns for family fun

Stansted Park’s highly popular Summer Festival will be back for it’s fourth year on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July.

Set to be an eclectic weekend of family fun, quirky entertainment and a little bit of the eccentric all within the setting of a Quintessential Country Estate. Expect music and performances from local favourites, including the Batala Portsmouth, Amy Baker and The Iron Boot Scrapers, plus exciting re-enactments and Living History Camp from the Napoleonic Association.

With a range of family activities and entertainment, including a Forest School, circus skills, archery, classic cars, heritage craft demonstrations and a parks and woodland display. 10am–6pm daily. Book tickets online.

Find out more at www.stanstedpark.co.uk

with the infamous Joker Squad for a mischievous romp through the convention. With so much more to explore and enjoy, including free parking, this Comic Con promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages! 10am-5pm.

Sun 9 Jun

Open Farm Sunday

Milly’s Jolly Jacob Farm, Sandown, PO36 0NY farmsunday.org

Visitors can enjoy tractor-trailer rides, farm tours, nature trails, bug hunts, and even shop at farmers’ markets. The event bridges the gap between consumers and farmers, emphasising the importance of British agriculture.

Sat 16 & Sun 15 Jun

Weapons and Warriors – Father’s Day Roman Re-enactment Butser Ancient Farm, PO8 0BG butserancientfarm.co.uk Have a hands-on day out this Father’s Day and discover what life was like in the Roman Army! Discover ancient weapons and be amazed by the lives of brave warriors. Find out how the Roman army lived and fought in Britain with re-enactments from the Butser IX Legion and test your mettle with a spear-throwing activity! 10am-4pm.

Fri 21 to Sun 23 Jun

West’s Wood Fair East Dean, Nr. Chichester, PO18 ONJ westswoodfair.co.uk

An event featuring the many interesting ways in which wood is used. There will be over 100 exhibitors including: trade stands selling timber and other woodrelated products, demonstrations of sawmilling, pole lathes and hurdle making. 10am-5pm.

Sun 23 Jun

Steeleford Supercar Show Stansted Park, PO9 6DX stanstedpark.co.uk

Set in the grounds of Stansted Park,

The Steeleford Supercar Show returns for 2024 with their biggest show yet. With another massive lineup of supercars from the south of the UK. They are expecting to have even more on display than the 2023 show (270+ supercars) from all marques as well as an impressive array of helicopters.

Fri 28 to Sun 30 Jun

Outdoor Cinema at Stansted Park

Stansted Park, PO9 6DX stanstedpark.co.uk

Set within the grounds of Stansted House, screening will take place in front of the mansion. Pack a picnic and get ready for an experience like no other. Book online.

Fri 28 Jun: Grease Sing-along, 8pm

Sat 29 Jun: Jurassic Park, 1.30pm

Sat 29 Jun: Mamma Mia! 6.30pm

Sun 30 Jun: The Gruffalo/Stick Man, 11am

Sun 30 Jun: Sing, 3pm

Sun 30 Jun: Pretty Woman, 8pm

BOOKING NOW

Fri 12 to Sat 20 Jul

The Wind in the Willows Titchfield Festival Theatre, Fareham, PO14 4BG titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com

An enchanting adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s legendary animal adventure story, with Mole, Ratty, Toad and Badger battling the evil weasel army. Tickets now available online. 2.30pm or 7.30pm.

Fri 26 to Sun 28 Jul

The Garden Show Broadlands, Romsey, SO51 8GG thegardenshows.com

Featuring specialist growers, garden related goods, artisan designs, homeware products, fashion accessories and delicious country foods. There are talks, demonstrations, activities for young and old, expert advice and a variety of music and entertainment. 10am-5pm.

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Science spies and curious kids needed this May half-term

Find out where your curiosity will take you this May and June with the return of Mysteries & Mayhem at Winchester Science Centre.

Between Sat 11 May and Mon 3 June, including every day during May half-term, there’ll be all the usual Science Centre fun, plus even more to excite children aged five to twelve and their families.

Visitors are invited to join the Science Spy School live show and help use light to uncover the secrets contained in the mystery safe. There will be a chance for little and big scientists to put their forensic skills to the test in an indoor and outdoor Hide and Seek activity trail. Plus, there’ll be space adventures in the Planetarium, huge ‘don’t try this at home’ demos in Science Live and two floors of hands-on exhibits not to be missed.

Find out more at www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Family camping across the UK

There’s something very special about a camping trip, especially if it’s with your family. Making memories that will last a lifetime and perhaps sparking a love of the outdoors from an early age. Once you’ve got your gear together, camping can also be a cost effective way to get away from home for a few days on an adventure.

We asked our friends at The Outdoor Guide (www.theoutdoorguide.co.uk) for some of their favourite camping and glamping (camping with all the bells and whistles, including a proper bed) sites that you and your family may want to try.

Love2Stay, Shropshire

What’s not to love about your stay here? It’s a luxury touring, caravan and glamping site that offers families everything they could want and more. Whether you and the kids want to go swimming, kayaking, complete an assault course or try your hand at archery, this is the place for you!

Love2Stay, Mid-Wales

In the heart of the rolling Welsh hills and overlooking the Severn Valley, there’s enough to do here to keep all the family busy! There’s a fantastic adventure play area for the children whilst adults can relax in the spa or hot tub.

Charmill Cottage Campsite, West Sussex

Nestled on the edge of the South Downs National Park, this is a little gem of a campsite that you’ll want to visit again and again. Next to the campsite is Wild Heart Hill - a beautiful wooded hillside to explore and play on (look out for the rope swings hidden amongst the trees). It’s also a short drive away from the beaches of Worthing and Littlehampton.

Orcarber Farm, Yorkshire Dales

This is a family run site near the village of Austwick with its country pub, local shop and playing fields with tennis, bowls, football, basketball and a playground – perfect for getting active and enjoying a family break.

Castlerigg Hall, Lake District

This is a campsite with a view and a half. Situated near the wonderful market town of Keswick, the site overlooks Derwentwater and is a walkers’ paradise. On your doorstep are the likes of Blencathra, Skiddaw and Catbells if you’re looking for a challenge or for a smaller fell, Latrigg is wheelchair and pushchair friendly.

Loch Ness Shores Club Site, Scotland

In the heart of the Highlands and with views over Loch Ness, this is a simply stunning location. It’s the perfect place to explore the surrounding countryside or perhaps while away an hour or two looking out for the elusive Nessie!

Sennen Cove Club Site, Cornwall

Located on a cliff top overlooking the Atlantic, this is where you’ll get a good dose of sea air. The nearby coastline offers secluded coves and sandy beaches where little ones can run free. This campsite is perfectly situated to explore Land’s End, St Michael’s Mount and St Ives.

Verwood Club Site, Dorset

Whether you’re looking to explore the miles of sandy beaches across Bournemouth and Poole or go and explore the New Forest National Park, this is the perfect base. There’s also a great children’s playground on site and your dog is welcome too.

To find out more about all these campsites and more, visit www.theoutdoorguide.co.uk/stay/camping-glamping