Booking deadline: 1 December Features: Education, early years, childcare, kids’ classes, health, Feb half-term and more.
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...endless ideas for families of young children in Portsmouth • Fareham • Gosport • Havant • Waterlooville • Emsworth • Chichester • Petersfield and all the areas inbetween!
Keeping kids active and engaged in winter
By Andrew Campbell
As winter arrives bringing shorter and colder days, children often tend to gravitate towards screens and screen-based activities of all kinds. But winter is a brilliant opportunity for parents and carers to help them to find new ways of being physically and mentally active indoors. From indoor climbing to creative art and craft and everything in between, there are some fantastic options to keep your children’s minds and bodies moving during the winter months.
INDOOR CLIMBING
Indoor climbing is an excellent way for children to build physical strength, improve co-ordination, and boost their confidence. Climbing centres provide a safe environment where children can challenge themselves, learn problem-solving skills and enjoy the thrill of reaching new heights. Many centres offer courses and classes tailored to children including parent-supervised classes. Encourage your child by joining them for a climbing session, organising climbing playdates with friends or hold an indoor climbing birthday party for your child. To find a local centre try the UKC Directory at www.ukclimbing. com
ART AND CRAFT
Winter is an ideal time for artistic exploration, stimulating creativity and improving fine motor skills and patience. Set up an art station at home with various materials such as paints, beads, clay and recycled items and encourage your child to create personalised gifts or decorations as Christmas approaches. Local community centres and art schools often offer classes where children can learn new techniques and make friends with similar interests.
Try the Children’s Art Class Directory at www.quickdrawart.com to find local classes.
INDOOR SOFT PLAY
For younger children, indoor soft play areas offer a secure environment in which they can explore, climb and interact with others. Play zones for different ages are designed to be safe and engaging, with padded surfaces and colourful obstacles. Soft play encourages imaginative play, social interaction and physical activity, making it an ideal choice for energetic toddlers. Plan visits during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience and allow your child the freedom to navigate the space at their own pace. Many larger centres offer birthday party experiences as well as more sophisticated and adventurous options for older children and even adults.
TRAMPOLINING
Trampolining is an exhilarating activity AND an excellent cardiovascular workout that improves balance and co-ordination. Indoor trampoline parks provide a safe space for children to jump, flip and play. These parks often have special sessions for different age groups, as well as party packages, ensuring a safe experience for even the littlest children. Meanwhile, for children who want more regular bouncing, trampoline clubs offer qualified coaching and graded competitions and are often held at schools, leisure centres and gymnastic centres.
To find a local club try the Gymnastics & Trampolining Directory at www.uk-ag. co.uk
SCIENCE EXPLORATION
Many science centres and museums offer interactive exhibits and workshops in which kids can engage in hands-on learning. These activities can spark interest in various scientific fields, from chemistry to astronomy and provide an educational yet entertaining experience. At home, consider simple science experiments using everyday materials to keep the curiosity alive. To find local stargazing spots or observatories try www.gostargazing.co.uk For budding palaeontologists, check out the UK Fossils Network at www.ukfossils.co.uk The Association for Science and Discovery Centres has an extensive directory at www.science centres.org.uk
SWIMMING
Swimming offers numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility and indoor swimming pools provide a warm and inviting environment during winter months. Enrol your child in swimming lessons to help them build confidence in the water. Swimming is not only a vital life skill but also a great way to relieve stress and have fun. Family swim sessions can be a wonderful way to bond and maintain fitness together. For children interested in taking their swimming to the next level with regular qualified coaching and competitions, then Swim England has a directory of hundreds of local clubs at discover.swimming.org
The connection between fussy eating and neurodiversity
By Ellie Malt
Short phases of fussy eating and avoiding new foods are very common in childhood. But if your child’s picky eating persists, it could be a sign of a neurodiverse brain type such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit disorder (ADHD). Understanding the connections between neurodiversity and eating problems can help you decide what to do.
Constipation. For a neurodiverse child, it’s likely gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms will have been present from birth. A very recent study₁ highlighted how children eventually diagnosed with ASD are five times more likely to have had feeding difficulties as babies. Although surveys on GI symptoms in children with ASD and ADHD are inconsistent, one study of one hundred and twenty children with ASD₂ found nearly all of them had constipation. The pain of regular constipation can lead to negative associations with eating.
The gut. Children with neurodiversity are more likely to have guts with structural differences. These can be a reduced ability to push food through (a slow gut) or a reduced ability of the intestine wall to keep food away from the rest of the body (a leaky gut). A study by microbiologists in the US₃ has suggested children with ASD and ADHD may also have differences in the types of bacteria in their gut, leading to altered immune responses.
Food intolerances. There is growing anecdotal evidence indicating that children with ASD and ADHD are more likely to have lactose and casein intolerances (both found in dairy products) and gluten intolerances. Despite a lack of large-scale studies in this area, a small survey of parents of autistic children in England showed that a fifth had tried a gluten and/or milk free diet and a majority of these parents reported significant improvements in various aspects of their child’s wellbeing.
Interoception. Kids with ASD or ADHD often have a different experience of discomfort. Altered interoception, the sense of the internal state of the body, can make it difficult to recognise hunger and fullness, leading to irregular eating patterns.
Sensory processing. Children with ASD or ADHD feel overloaded by sensory stimuli. A heightened sensory awareness to texture, taste and smell can make certain foods intolerable, leading to a more restricted diet with a preference for
predictability and comfort.
Sensitivity to sound. Sensitivity to the sound of eating (misophonia), is characterised by strong reactions to specific sounds, such as chewing or swallowing. Children with neurodivergence are more likely to experience sensitivity to these sounds, making mealtimes stressful and unpleasant. This can lead them to avoid eating certain textures or eating in social settings.
Executive function. When children become overwhelmed by their senses, the brain shuts down executive functioning, reducing self-control. With ADHD, they might be too distracted to enjoy eating or to finish their food. To sustain interest, they may be drawn to food choices that deliver instant gratification, favouring sugary snacks. Hyperactivity can also affect their ability to sit at a table and focus on eating. Studies have found impaired executive function among patients with eating disorders.
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). ARFID, a recognised eating disorder, is characterised by extremely selective eating habits without an underlying medical condition. A study of six hundred children in Sweden with ARFID₄ is one of the most recent to have highlighted the overlap between eating disorders and neurodiverse conditions including tic disorder, ADHD and ASD.
Sources
1. Feeding Behaviors in Infants and Toddlers Later Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2024
2. Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Autism: Parental Report, Clinical Evaluation, and Associated Factors, Autism Research, Volume 5, Issue 2, 2012
3. The Gut Microbiome in Autism, American Society Microbiology 2021, 4. Neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions in 600 Swedish Children with the ARFID phenotype. PMC, 2024
Performing Arts Schools
Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year-olds
Does it feel like you’re fighting a losing battle maintaining your tween’s interest in reading? Does your child always seem more interested in the quick fix of screens than books?
It’s understandable that parents worry. The human brain is wired for novelty and the bright lights and quick rewards of going online can feel immediately gratifying.
But it’s worth persevering. Books are a key way to help your child feel happier and less stressed. A National Literacy Trust survey found that keen readers between the age of 8 and 13 are three times more likely to have higher levels of mental well-being, compared to those who don’t engage with books at all. With books, kids learn to concentrate for longer and improve emotional intelligence as they empathise with the characters.
In a largely digital world, what’s a modern parent to do? As is often the case, part of the answer lies in taking action before your child hits tweenhood.
For ages 2 to 5, try limiting tech learning games to just ONE of your child’s many play options. Consciously cut down the digital babysitters because pre-schoolers need to develop their reading brains first.
After that, help kids become ‘bilingual.’ This means providing text both on screen AND on the printed page. Point out the difference between accessing information quickly online and deep, concentrated book-reading. Show them how to do both side by side.
As a Gestalt psychotherapist-in-training – which focuses on experience in the body – one of my favourite ways to do this is
by helping children recognise how screens and books make them feel different.
As an example, help your child notice how immersive video gaming makes them feel tense and jumpy. Then notice how curling up with a good book and being able to take in information at their own pace makes them feel calmer. Role model book reading yourself and talk about how it makes YOU feel.
Make phone-free family time a treat rather than deprivation. For example, hold a phone amnesty where you ALL go to a café for a hot chocolate with your favourite books for half an hour’s reading.
When kids realise how good books can make them feel and how they bond you together, it marks the start of a life-long habit.
‘All my friends have a phone!’ is one of the 75 real world scenarios tackled in What’s my Tween Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents, by Tanith Carey with Dr Angharad Rudkin, published by DK books.
JOURNEYS IN TO SPACE MIND BLOWING
Engaging tweens further with reading
Let them choose. While it’s tempting to encourage your children to read the classics you loved when you were little, let your child follow their own interests and get excited about a new book, whether it’s from the library or a bookshop. At the start of every school holiday, make a special visit to let your kids pick out their own. Looking forward to this trip and giving them a choice will make them more invested.
Go exploring together. Thanks to the internet, our children have never read more words or had access to more experiences. They can now browse through hundreds of websites and search any subject that interests them in seconds. In fact, research has found that the average person now reads as many as 100,000 words a day: about thirty four gigabytes a day across their various devices. Don’t just leave them to it. Do some research to find out more about the subjects in a recent book that has interested them.
Supporting a child with maths anxiety
By Catherine Loble and Lisa Wander
From buying a kilo of apples to paying a restaurant bill or making savings, maths is a fact of life. However, many people see maths as a hard and often confusing subject. This can lead to maths fear or anxiety. In children, this can significantly impact their academic performance and overall confidence. Understanding the causes and implementing supportive strategies can help parents effectively assist their children in overcoming this fear.
Maths anxiety is a worry or fear that can be brought on by maths problems, tests or even thinking about numbers. Estimates suggest that up to a quarter of children experience at least some maths anxiety, often lasting into adulthood. Negativity, fear and anxiety towards the subject block any motivation to practise in order to learn and access the skills they need to progress.
Maths anxiety can begin in early childhood. For others, it can arise a little later when lessons become more challenging and complex. Some children develop maths anxiety because they have not mastered the foundational skills. It is hard to master fractions for example, if you do not yet have a grasp on whole numbers.
Evidence states that girls tend to experience maths anxiety more than boys. This seems to be the case at both primary and secondary school levels. That is not because boys are naturally better at crunching numbers, experts explain. ‘There’s this societal stereotype that math is a masculine domain and a lot of women incorporate that idea’ says Molly Jameson, PhD, an educational psychologist at the University of Northern Colorado. That belief can fuel maths anxiety. Her research shows that one
Strategies for parents
Promote a growth mindset. Remind your child that their ability in maths can and will be improved with practice, positivity and learning from mistakes.
big factor in maths anxiety is a child’s ‘math self-concept,’ in other words, their confidence in their ability to tackle a maths problem.
By understanding the causes of maths anxiety and implementing supportive strategies, parents can play a crucial role in helping their children develop a positive relationship with maths.
Changing the way we think about numbers and remembering that our relationship with maths can grow and alter over time can positively impact our self-confidence. Children should be set goals which feel achievable, to help them maintain motivation while overcoming anxiety.
Finally, encouragement, patience and a focus on understanding can transform maths from a source of fear to an opportunity for growth and success.
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
Keep calm. Provide a comfortable space for homework, be patient and encouraging.
Focus on understanding, offering real life examples to explain concepts.
Have fun with maths games and puzzles. Engage in activities like cooking or shopping that naturally incorporate maths. Praise effort, not just results. Celebrating small successes builds confidence. Praise persistence, not just being right. Practice builds familiarity and confidence.
Model problem-solving behaviour. Work through problems together, showing how to approach solving them step-by-step. Seek help when needed. If you’re not maths confident, use interactive educational apps and online resources that explain concepts in different ways. It’s useful to communicate with your child’s teacher to discuss their progress and areas that need support.
Your Christmas stocking filler gift guide
By Sarah Lindsley
Yes, it’s that time of year again! Along with decking the halls, meal planning and panto ticket booking while the children are beside themselves with excitement, let’s not forget the presents. We are here to help! Our Christmas stocking filler gift guide offers you inspiration in the lead up to the festive season. With each gift coming in under £15 there may even be some of the Christmas budget left over to treat yourself!
From birth
A perfect first book for your baby and suitable from birth with its soft, padded pages. With simple black-and-white illustrations and a touch-and-feel experience on every page, this beautiful book is designed to capture babies’ attention and even claims to help develop their eyesight. Providing fun, multi-sensory stimulation for babies, this is a lovely first book for your newborn.
Ages 8+
Ages 5+
Kinetic Sand Deluxe Beach Castle Play Set
£11.99
Bring the beach to your kitchen with this brilliant magically moving play sand set. Made with larger grains of natural sand, it moulds easily and never dries out. Kinetic sand is a unique sensory experience that encourages hours of independent play. Unfold the box to discover a sandy play area complete with cutting, digging and raking tools so your child can make some seriously super sandcastles. The sand sticks to itself and comes with a tray for storage so even cleaning up is easy.
Orchard Toys Games
£9.75/£12/£6
Ages 3-6
Hy-Pro Size 2 Skills Trainer Football
£11.99
Get World Cup-ready with this brilliant skills trainer football from Hy-Pro. Perfect for any young football enthusiast to practise their ball control and core skills. The ergonomic handle is easy to hold and the handheld cord linking the PVC football can be adjusted depending on both the age and the skills being practised.
Doggy Doggy Woof Woof! is an energetic, hilarious new matching and memory game where players pair doggy heads and bodies. In Peter Rabbit™ Don’t Wake Mr. McGregor, join Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Flopsy and Mopsy and race to collect the most fruit and vegetables! But don’t wake Mr. McGregor or you’ll have to return to the start! In a festive, travel-sized Elf Lotto, collect all the cheeky elves and be the first to fill your board with matching characters.
Ages 5+
Crayola 24 Super Tips Washable Markers
£8
Ages 4+
Crayola’s 24 Super Tip markers are the perfect pens to get creative with, whether making big brush strokes in a favourite colouring book or creating detailed, fine lines for drawings and art projects. A win for parents too as the ink easily washes off skin and clothing, so you can let your budding artist have free rein.
This LEGO® City Police Car set, featuring a cool police patrol car and accompanying police officer figure complete with torch and hat, will keep your child busy for hours as they zoom around the living room chasing the baddies. You can even use the LEGO® Building Instructions app to access the interactive building guide with amazing zoom and rotate viewing tools. Your kids will become master builders in no time.
Ages 2-5
Part of the Busy Book series, Busy Park is guaranteed to be a favourite at bedtime over and over again. There’s a sweet rhyming story and colourful and engaging illustration, but it’s the interactive nature of the book with its push, pull and slide tabs that really make it stand out. You and your tot can enjoy your day out at Busy Park together: visit the playground, make the animals run and disappear and even get the sunshine to come out. Busy Park has also been endorsed and recommended by Dr Amanda Gummer’s Good Toy Guide (www.goodplayguide.com).
Campbell Busy Books Busy Park Board Book £6.99
Ladybird Baby Touch: My First Book £10.99
Kids Get Festive
Starlight Trail
23 Nov, 2 – 4.30pm
[ Suitable for 5+, £7.50 )
In collaboration with The Novium Museum and Chichester Library, join us for our Starlight Trail with crafts along the route, concluding with the Christmas lights turning on at the Assembly Rooms at 5pm.
Carols in the Courtyard
5 Dec, 6 – 8pm
[ FREE, Open to all )
Enjoy carols from Bishop Luffa School choir, winter drinks and mince pies available from the Café, a Library Show & Tell and half-price Gallery entry.
Saturday Art and Craft
14 Dec, Drop in 10am –12pm
[ Suitable for 5+, FREE, please book ahead )
Whether it’s block printing or creating a collage, these activities are suitable for all ages and abilities!
Glittery Christmas Decorations
21 Dec, 10am –12pm
[ Age 7+, £15 )
Create a Christmas decoration inspired by Dora Carrington’s tinsel paintings – a perfect gift for a loved one or to hang on your own tree!
A Winter Wonderland
By Gemma Hunt
As the song goes: ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year….’ Whilst you may like the idea of walking in a winter wonderland, with the nights drawing in and the weather that bit chillier, the temptation to stay indoors is strong. But getting outside is so good for you and your little ones. Getting a good lungful of fresh air, embracing the nature around you, whilst getting some exercise and burning off pent up energy will do you all the world of good.
But before you open the front door and take that first step into the winter air, there are some things you may want to bear in mind!
Wrap up warm
Make sure you and your children are wrapped up nice and warm before heading out into the chilly winter air. Dressing in plenty of layers is always the best idea as they can be added or removed, depending on how your child is feeling. Don’t forget a hat to keep heads warm and a pair of gloves or mittens for chilly hands.
Help other children to enjoy the great outdoors
As an ambassador for The Outdoor Guide Foundation’s (TOG)
Waterproof & Wellies campaign, I’m helping to raise funds to provide all state primary schools in the country with at least ten sets of waterproof jackets, trousers and wellies so that those children who cannot afford outdoor clothes can play outside. Interested? You can support the campaign too at www.theoutdoorguidefoundation. org
Be prepared
If spending hours outdoors sound a bit much to start with, head to a local park or woods nearby, rather than going too far afield and feeling like you have to stay a long while to justify the journey. No matter what time of year you’re off out and for what length of time, check the weather forecast so you can be prepared. Have a change of clothes, wet weather gear, a spare pair of shoes and, if you are travelling by car, some blankets in the boot for afterwards.
Waterproof and wellies
Winter walks can be mucky walks but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Get your waterproofs and wellies on and have some fun finding those muddy puddles and having a good jump around in them.
Get
active
Whilst adding more layers is helpful when you start to feel the chill, doing some exercise will warm you up from the inside out. Whether it’s doing some star jumps, dancing around or if it’s not slippery underfoot, challenging the children to a running race. Get the heart pumping and you’ll be feeling warmer again in no time.
Snacks at the ready
Don’t forget to pack some snacks and perhaps a flask of warming hot chocolate for your outdoor adventures this winter. These can help give your little ones the energy and motivation to get outside.
Have fun!
There are loads of fun activities you can do outside in the winter time. Whether it’s building a snowman or making snow angels on a snow day, constructing a twig or fallen branch den, gathering fallen leaves, seeds and other items to make mandalas on the ground or perhaps a scavenger hunt or geocaching, you’ll be glad you did go out for that walk after all!
Gemma Hunt is a television presenter from Songs of Praise and CBeebies, proud Ambassador of The Outdoor Guide (TOG) Foundation, as well as an accomplished children’s author and Confident Communication Coach. She is available to host children’s pirate parties and live events and festivals with her one-woman pirate show. For more information, visit www.gemmahunt.com
WIN! Giveaways
WIN a family ticket to see Dick Whittington at Kings Theatre
The Pompey Panto is back for Christmas 2024 with the ultimate tale of fame and fortune – Dick Whittington at the Kings Theatre.
Starring Eastenders legend Lorraine Stanley as the deliciously evil Queen Rat, Britain’s Got Talent Winner George Sampson as Dick Whittington and the ever-unpredictable Jack Edwards as Dame Dolly, who is celebrating his tenth panto at The Kings Theatre! Go to www.kingsportsmouth.co.ukto book tickets.
We have a family ticket to giveaway to the opening night on Tuesday 3 December at 6.30pm to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning, simply click on the QR code and sign up to our newsletter. T&Cs apply.
The closing date for entries is Sunday 24 November.
CLICK ON THE QR CODE TO ENTER
Enter by Sunday 24 November.
WIN a family ticket to see Beauty and The Beast at New Theatre Royal
New Theatre Royal is delighted to announce that its 2024 pantomime will be Beauty and the Beast and is set to captivate audiences from 13 December to 5 January.
Prepare to be enchanted by a classic tale as old as time in true pantomime style, full of OO-LA-LA-UGHS! Delight in live music, stunning sets, slick choreography, sensational costumes and plenty of panto fun. Go to www.newtheatreroyal.com to book tickets.
We have a family ticket to giveaway to the gala night on Friday 13 December to one lucky reader. To be in with a chance of winning, simply click on the QR code and sign up to our newsletter. T&Cs apply.
The closing date for entries is Sunday 24 November.
What's On Your festive guide to
Family Shows & Pantos
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 venues are open.
Comedy Club 4 Kids at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP
Sat 9 Nov
The favourite family-friendly comedy club returns with the best stand-up, sketch acts and cabaret stars from around the UK to perform - but without any rude bits! Ages 6+. cft.org.uk/events/comedy-club-4kids-4
Treasure Island at Titchfield Festival Theatre, PO14 4BG
Fri 22-Sat 30 Nov
Set sail on this gritty adventure, with fearsome swashbuckling pirates and the devilish Long John Silver. Will Jim, Squire Trelawny and Doctor Livesey succeed in their voyage or will they end up marooned on Treasure Island! titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com
Dick Whittington at Kings Theatre, PO5 2QJ
Fri 29 Nov-Tue 31 Dec
Starring Lorraine Stanley, George Sampson and Jack Edwards. With fabulous sets, dazzling costumes and foot-tapping tunes, join Dick and his cat as they journey to London – the city where the streets are paved with gold! kingsportsmouth.co.uk/whatsonevent/dick-whittington-panto-2024
Rapunzel - A Magical Adventure! at The Groundlings Theatre, Southsea, PO1 3BS
Thu 5-Tue 31 Dec
Get ready to shout for the goodies, boo the baddies and sing along in a show packed full of comedy, magic and adventure. With plenty to sing, dance and clap along to, Rapunzel is the perfect treat this Christmas. groundlings.co.uk
Baby Broadway Christmas Special at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP Fri 6 Dec
A joyful Christmas family-friendly concert. Sing and dance to your favourite holiday songs from festive musicals and films, performed by talented West End singers. With bubbles, bells, flying babies and puppets. Festive fancy dress is highly encouraged! £7. All ages. 10am, 11.15am. cft.org.uk/events/baby-broadwaychristmas-specal
Gimble Elf and the Magic Sleigh at Titchfield Festival Theatre, PO14 4BG
Fri 6-Sun 8 Dec 11am, 1pm
When all the reindeer get poorly, it’s up to Gimble Elf to save the day with Father Christmas, as they find a way
to bring magic the Father Christmas Sleigh! Magical fun with the elves, singing and dancing and a special appearance from Father Christmas himself! This extra special Christmas show is for ages 0-6. The show is 35 minutes long with a Meet and Greet of the characters after the show. titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com
Hey! Christmas Tree at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP Sat 7-Sun 29 Dec
Enchanting, festive and created just for CFT, this show will fill your heart with joy. Inspired by Michael Morpurgo’s book of poems My Heart Was a Tree, as it reveals the importance of finding friendship and somewhere to call home. A perfect first festive theatre trip for families. Ages 3-7. From £10. 10.30am, 2.15pm. cft.org.uk/events/hey-christmastree
Little Robin Red Vest at Portsmouth Guildhall, PO1 2AB Sun 8 Dec
Based on the much-loved picture book by Jan Fearnley, adapted for stage, enjoy this brand-new adaptation aimed at children aged 2-6. Using original songs, puppetry and integrated Makaton, our playful performers will share this heart warming tale of friendship, generosity and the joy of giving. 11am, 2pm. portsmouthguildhall.org.uk/whatson/event/little-robin-red-vest
Hansel & Gretel at Titchfield Festival Theatre, PO14 4BG Fri 13-Tue 31 Dec
See the classic fairy tale like you’ve never seen it before, reimagined with a twist or two in a brand-new adaptation by Director Sassy Harvey and the same team that brought you The Nutcracker, Red Riding Hood and Sleeping Beauty. titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com
Beauty and the Beast at New Theatre Royal Portsmouth, PO1 2DD Fri 13 Dec-Sun 5 Jan
Get ready to be whisked away by the sensational pantomime Beauty and the Beast on a spellbinding journey. Prepare to be enchanted by a classic
tale as old as time in true pantomime style, full of OO-LA-LA-UGHS!
Delight in live music, stunning sets, slick choreography and sensational costumes and plenty of panto fun that’ll leave you howling with delight! newtheatreroyal.com/ performances/panto-2024
Cinderella at Fareham Live, PO16 7DB Fri 13 Dec-Sun 5 Jan
Panto returns to Fareham this Christmas with the most magical tale of them all, Cinderella. Suitable for all ages, Cinderella is the hilarious family pantomime with tons of slapstick comedy, plenty of audience interaction and stunning musical numbers that you’re guaranteed to be singing for days afterwards. trafalgartickets.com/fareham-livefareham/en-GB/event/pantomime/ cinderella-tickets
Cinderella at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP Tue 17-31 Dec
Packed with thrilling theatricality and delightful comedy, Cinderella is a show full of wonder and delight. Meet a wicked stepfamily, a handsome prince in search of a wife and a missing slipper… But wait, there are also three magical dresses, a wish-giving tree and help for Cinderella from a very unexpected source. Ages 7+. cft.org.uk/events/cinderella#theshow
The Snow Queen – A Frozen Adventure at Portsmouth Guildhall, PO1 2AB Tue 17-Mon 31 Dec
The newest panto from Curtain Call Productions. Join the Snow Queen and her sister on a frozen adventure to reclaim her crown and learn how to use her magical powers for good. Relaxed performance 22 Dec at 2pm. Ages 0-14. portsmouthguildhall.org.uk/whatson/event/the-snow-queen-afrozen-adventure
Don’t forget to say you saw these events in Families Solent East Magazine!
Dick Whittington at Kings Theatre
What's On
Fun for all the family
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
Treasure Trails across South East Hampshire and West Sussex
Ongoing
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. treasuretrails.co.uk
‘50 Things’ Activities at The National Trust
Ongoing
Why not try some of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges? There’s something for every young explorer to do. nationaltrust.org.uk
Gruffalo Party Trail at Alice Holt Forest, GU10 4LS
Ongoing
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. £4. 9am-4pm. Ages 3-9. forestryengland.uk/alice-holtforest
Mini Makers & Shakers at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP
Every Wed (term time only)
Take part in fun activities for 2-5 year olds. Choose from Storytime Rhymes, Little Artists and Mini Movers. cft.org.uk
Family Fun at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP
Every Thu & Sat (term time only)
A weekly expansion of CFT’s family-friendly spaces. Bring your
pre-schoolers on Thu 10am–12pm or, Sat 9am–12pm. Ages 0-5. FREE. cft.org.uk/offstage/pop-up-familyfun
Little Notes at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP
Every Thu (term time only)
Take part in live music, led by classically-trained opera singer and musician Mark Bradbury. Ages 0-4. cft.org.uk/littlenotes
Family Saturdays at Aspex Gallery, Portsmouth, PO1 3BF
Every Sat
A different creative activity each week, from painting to model making. These FREE creative workshops are fun for all the family. aspex.org.uk/event/familysaturdays
Family Fun at Gosport Discovery Centre, PO12 1BT
Every Sat
Come along and play with board games, try a puzzle and build with construction bricks. 2-3.30pm. FREE. hants.gov.uk/librariesandarchives/ library/events#.Gosport-DiscoveryCentre
Dinky Dragons Toddler Group at Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester PO18 0EU Fri 8, 15, 22, 29 Nov & Fri 6 Dec
Expect stories, songs, ‘make and take’ crafts and plenty of hands-on, free-range fun in the great outdoors! £9.50 per child, which includes an accompanying adult for FREE. Ages 2-4. Book online. 10.30am-12noon. wealddown.co.uk/events/dinkydragons
FESTIVE EVENTS
Chichester Indoor Christmas Market at Westgate Leisure Centre, PO19 1RJ
Sun 10 Nov
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as you wander through the beautifully decorated aisles full of stalls, discovering a wide array of unique and handcrafted gifts. 9am-2pm. funyardevents.com
Santa’s Grotto at The Great Barn, Titchfield, PO14 4BG Thu 21 Nov-Sun 22 Dec
The Christmas Fayre is back in Titchfield at The Great Barn. Bigger and better with over 60 stalls with goodies and gifts, including light refreshments and a bar. Meet Father Christmas and get a wrapped gift to take away. Book online. titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com/santaat-the-barn
Pick a Real Christmas Tree at Alice Holt Forest, GU10 4LS Fri 22 Nov-Thu 19 Dec
The Alice Holt Christmas tree shop will be open 9am-5pm, 7 days a week. Choose from traditional Norway Spruce for a fresh pine scent, Fraser Fir or a Nordmann Fir, the most popular Christmas tree in the UK due to their shape and low drop dark green needles. forestryengland.uk/real-christmastrees
An Enchanted Christmas at Hinton Ampner, SO24 0LA Sat 16 Nov-Sun 5 Jan
Step into the beautiful house, enchanted by the magic of Christmas. With thousands of sparkling lights and presents stacked high - don’t miss out on this Christmas delight. Normal admission applies. 10am-4pm nationaltrust.org.uk/hintonampner/events
Get your skates on for Portsmouth On Ice!
The Pompey Panto is back for Christmas 2024 at the Kings Theatre with the ultimate tale of fame and fortune – Dick Whittington from Friday 29 November to Tuesday 23 December.
Starring Eastenders legend Lorraine Stanley as the deliciously evil Queen Rat, Britain’s Got Talent Winner George Sampson as Dick Whittington and the everunpredictable Jack Edwards as Dame Dolly, who will be celebrating his tenth panto here at The Kings Theatre!
Full of all the elements you’ve come to expect including fabulous sets, dazzling costumes and foot-tapping tunes, join Dick and his Cat as they journey to London – the city where the streets are paved with gold.
Visit www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk to book tickets.
The seasonal ice rink, located in Guildhall Square, Portsmouth will be open for hour-long skating sessions every day (except Christmas Day) from Saturday 23 November through to Sunday 5 January.
Back by popular demand, the rink will host dedicated SEND sessions, family skates and DJ nights with live music. All sessions are wheelchair friendly and available at various times.
Skate aids are available to hire for little ones but must be booked in advance.
Tickets cost £13 for a child (5-15), £15 for an adult and £15.50 for an adult and preschooler. Skate aids, family tickets, season passes, concessions and group bookings available. Carers skate for free.
Visit www.portsmouthiceskating.uk for more information.
Cosmic Christmas at Winchester Science Centre
What's On Fun for all the family
Leonardslee Lights at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, RH13 6PP Fri 22 Nov-Mon 30 Dec
Explore the wonder of the woodland gardens awash with light, sound and colour. Enjoy an incredible winter trail featuring a new route, along with impressive installations inspired by their beautiful gardens. Book online. 4.15-8.30pm. leonardsleegardens.co.uk/lights
Starlight Trail at Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, PO19 1TJ Sat 23 Nov
In collaboration with The Novium Museum and Chichester Library, enjoy Starlight Trail with crafts along the route, concluding with the Christmas lights turning on at the Assembly Rooms at 5pm. £7.50. Ages 5+. 2-4.30pm. pallant.org.uk/whats-on
Advent & Christmas Market at Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester PO18 0EU Sat 23 & Sun 24 Nov
Prepare for Christmas by visiting boutique market stalls with over 100 hand-selected stallholders representing the best in local arts, crafts and food. Pre-book online. 10am-4pm. wealddown.co.uk/events/advent
Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Stewarts Abbey Garden Centre, PO15 5RB
Sat 23 Nov-Tue 24 Dec
Santa’s friendly elves will guide you through his magical Winter Wonderland village walkway where you can peek into the elves’ workshop or Rudolph’s stables, before meeting Santa in his grotto. Have your photo taken with him and if you’ve been really good this year, you’ll receive a present, along with an activity pack! santa.stewarts.co.uk
A Christmas Wish at Fort Nelson, Portsmouth PO17 6AN
Sat 23 Nov-Sun 5 Jan
Take a stroll around an authentically restored Victorian fort and soak up the festive atmosphere. The Fort will be beautifully decorated with trees, Christmas wreaths and masses of twinkly lights, with delightful surprises around every corner. royalarmouries.org/fort-nelson/ whats-on/a-christmas-wish
Portsmouth on Ice at The Guildhall, PO1 2AB
Sat 23 Nov-Sun 5 Jan
Get your skates on and enjoy the seasonal ice rink located at Guildhall Square. SEND and family sessions are available at various times. Prebook online. portsmouthiceskating.uk
South Coast Modellers: Festive Theme Marvellous Models at The D-Day Story, Southsea, PO5 3NT
Sat 30 Nov
Discover the impressive display of hand-made military warships, aircraft and vehicles brought to life by South Coast Modellers. 10am-3pm. theddaystory.com/marvellousmodels-and-christmas
Christmas Makers Market at Petworth House, GU28 9LR
Sat 30 Nov-Sun 1 Dec
Explore this makers market to discover artisan gifts - a range of beautiful handmade products including jewellery, homewares, textiles and art. Opens at 10am. FREE but normal admission applies. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/ petworth
Christmas Lates at Petworth House, GU28 9LR
Sat 30 Nov, Sat 7 Dec & Fri 20 Dec
Experience the magical festivities at Petworth House on one of their late openings, when the lights sparkle
It’s a Christmas Spectacular at Petworth House
Explore Petworth House from Saturday 30 November to Sunday 5 January at their Christmas Spectacularsee showstopping trees, twinkling lights, beautiful garlands and floral displays.
Discover eight historic showrooms dressed for Christmas with some playful mice hiding amongst the display. There will be perfect places for photo opportunities, from the sleigh in the courtyard to the majestic lantern illuminating the Square Dining Room. You’ll find a life-sized paper-crafted nativity scene in the Chapel alongside trees waiting for your Christmas wish. Listen to Choirs Singing in the Courtyard on weekends, 30 November until 15 December and special late openings to experience a magical evening atmosphere in the House on 30 November, 7 and 20 December. Plus, add Christmas cheer to your home by joining a Wreath Making Workshop, or pick up some festive gifts at the Makers Market on 30 November and 1 December, in partnership with Petworth Pop-up.
Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth
after dark and the choir will be singing in the courtyard. FREE but normal admission applies. 10am-7pm. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/ petworth
Santa’s Toy Maker Workshop at Spinnaker Tower, PO1 3TT Sat 30 Nov-Tue 24 Dec Santa and his merry elves are bringing their toy-making workshop to the tower. Each child will craft their very own cuddly toy and meet the man himself. Adults £16.75 Children £25. 10am-4pm. spinnakertower.co.uk/whats-on/ santas-toy-maker-workshop/
A Christmas Spectacular at Petworth House, GU28 9LR Sat 30 Nov-Sat 4 Jan
Explore Petworth House to see showstopping trees, twinkling lights, beautifully adorned garlands and floral displays this Christmas. Discover eight historic showrooms dressed for Christmas with playful mice hiding among the display and
taking centre stage. There will be photo opportunities and a chance to add your wish onto a tree in the Chapel. Normal admission applies. 10.30am-4pm.
A Walk Through Christmas Past at The National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth PO1 3NH Sun 1 Dec-Sun 5 Jan
Experience a Victorian Christmas on HMS Warrior, a First World War Christmas on HMS M33 and a 1950s Christmas onboard the submarine HMS Alliance. historicdockyard.co.uk/event/timewalk-through-christmas-past
Festival of Christmas at Port Solent, PO6 4TP Sat 3-Sun 4 Dec
Heart-warming seasonal food and drink, brilliant street entertainment, festive music and over 100 market stalls, all conveniently under cover to help you find that perfect Christmas
Magical Winter Wonderland at Stewarts Garden Centre
Santa and his elves have prepared the most magical experience yet in the Stewarts Winter Wonderland running from Saturday 23 November until Tuesday 24 December in Titchfield.
Meet the elves and take a stroll down the magical Winter Wonderland village walkway. Peek into the Elf Village shops to see what you can spot! Arriving at Santa’s grotto you will meet the magical man himself and tell him what you’d like for Christmas. Children aged 6 months+ will receive a special wrapped present from Santa.
SEN Sessions will be available for young visitors who would benefit from a calmer visit. 50% of ticket proceeds from all SEN Sessions booked will go to Naomi’s House & Jacksplace. To book a SEN Session, please call 01329 842225 or visit Stewarts Abbey Garden Centre in Titchfield to purchase tickets as these sessions are not available to book online.
Find out more at santa.stewarts.co.uk
Your festive guide to
What's On Fun for all the family
gift. Additional activities for all the family. 10am-5pm. portsolent.com
Carols in the Courtyard at Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, PO19 1TJ Thu 5 Dec
Enjoy carols, winter drinks and mince pies from the Café and halfprice Gallery entry. 6-8pm. pallant.org.uk/whats-on/specialevent-carols-in-the-courtyard
Christmas at Charles Dickens’ Birthplace Museum, PO1 4QL Thu 5-Sun 29 Dec (selected dates) Immerse yourself in a Dickensian Christmas at the birthplace of one of England’s literary greats. Entry to the museum is FREE for Portsmouth residents. charlesdickensbirthplace.co.uk
Christmas at Paultons Park, Romsey, SO51 6AL Fri 6-Mon 23 Dec
See Peppa Pig World decorated for Christmas and meet Peppa and George in their festive outfits! Enjoy Santa’s Storytime, meet Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Reindeer and Billy and Belinda Elves and see the magical Illuminations around the Park. Plus, amazing rides, festive food, Christmas shopping and more. Selected dates available. paultonspark.co.uk/christmas
A Christmas Ship at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, PO1 3LJ
Sat-Sun 7-8 Dec
Join the crew of HMS Warrior as they prepare for Christmas 1863. Enjoy traditional Victorian live entertainment, help members of the crew. decorate the gun deck, practice their carol singing and make charismas homemade crafts to take home for your loved ones. 11am-4pm. historicdockyard.co.uk/event/achristmas-ship
Christmas at Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery, PO1 2LJ
Sat-Sun 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 Dec
Meet Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a gift. Or take part in the Christmas trail (£2). Call 023 92834779 to book. £10 per child and £5 per additional child booked on the same slot. Up to a total of 4 children and 2 adults per slot. portsmouthmuseum.co.uk
Father Christmas Sunday Lunches at Solent Hotel & Spa, Fareham PO15 7AJ
Sun 8, 15, 22 Dec
The only thing better than their delicious Sunday lunch created by award-winning chefs is the look on your little one’s face when they see that Father Christmas has popped in to say hello. Adults £42, children (ages 4-12) £20. Booking is required. solenthotel.co.uk/christmas
Santa’s Grotto at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP
Mon 9-Mon 23 Dec
Father Christmas is bringing his grotto back to CFT! Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Santa’s enchanting workshop from the master elves, meet Father Christmas and receive an early Christmas present to place under your tree. 9am-7pm. cft.org.uk/offstage/santas-grotto
Saturday Art and Craft at Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, PO19 1TJ
Sat 14 Dec
Whether it’s block printing or creating a collage, these activities are suitable for all ages and abilities! Ages 5+. FREE. Pre-booking required. 10am-12pm. pallant.org.uk/whats-on/ workshop-saturday-art-and-craft
Make A Christmas Wish at Fort Nelson
From Saturday 23 November to Sunday 5 January at Fort Nelson, take a leisurely stroll around an authentically restored Victorian fort and soak up the festive atmosphere.
The Fort will be beautifully decorated with trees, Christmas wreaths and masses of twinkly lights, with delightful surprises around every corner.
There are ten special installations featuring the magic of Santa and his elves and the joy of Christmas wishes. Younger visitors can train to be an elf and get hands-on with with games and workshop tasks - sorting presents, preparing reindeer food, plus lots of other magical activities. A special puzzle book will keep everyone entertained on the trail.
The Christmas Wish experience is for everyone and especially the young at heart.
Enjoy FREE admission but pre-booking is essential at www.royalarmouries.org
Cosmic Christmas at Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ
Sat 14-Mon 23 Dec
On weekends and during the school holidays between Saturday 14 and Monday 23 December families are invited to blast into Cosmic Christmas, a live-action immersive space adventure where theatrical performance, magical effects and an out-of-this-world journey through space on the Planetarium dome will bring an original Christmas tale to life. Children will receive a special Christmas gift and there’ll be time to meet Santa to snap a festive selfie. Families will be sure to make memories this Christmas that will propel them to the stars and back! Pre-book online. winchestersciencecentre.org/ whats-on/cosmic-christmas
After Dark - Starlight Cinema: Elf at Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ
Sat-Sun 14-15 Dec and Fri-Mon 20-23 Dec
Grab a seat, sit back and relax as one of the most-loved Christmas movies, Elf, plays out under the stars of the Planetarium. Child £8, Adult £8, Carers and under 3s FREE. 5.45pm. winchestersciencecentre.org/ whats-on
Little Nature Makers: Christmas Crafts at Leonardslee Lakes & Gardens, RH13 6PP Tue 17 Dec
Let your little ones get stuck into this fun and creative crafting session. 10-11am. leonardsleegardens.co.uk
Toddler Takeover XII: Santa’s Crazy Christmas at Petersfield Museum, GU32 3HX Sat 21 Dec
Let your little ones run around the galleries with festive crafts to take home. Have fun in Dasher’s Dance
Disco and enjoy wintertime play in the courtyard, plus there is story time with Father Christmas before his big night. Normal museum admission applies. Under 5s. 10am-4pm. petersfieldmuseum.co.uk
Family-Friendly Backstage Tours at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP
Sat 21 Dec
Discover how CFT started and learn fantastic facts about what happens behind the scenes. Get hands-on with props, try on costumes and have fun. 10.30am. £12 adults, under 16s £5. Ages 7+.
cft.org.uk/offstage/family-friendlybackstge-tour
Glittery Christmas Decorations at Pallant House Gallery, Chichester, PO19 1TJ
Sat 21 Dec
Create a Christmas decoration out of foil, clear plastic and coloured pens - a perfect gift for a loved one or to hang on your own tree! Ages 7+. £15. 10am-12pm. pallant.org.uk/whats-on
Winter Animal footprints at Portsmouth Natural History Museum, PO4 9RF Sat 21 Dec-Sun 5 Jan
Pick up a trail and work out which animal made which footprint. £1 (includes a prize).
portsmouthnaturalhistory.co.uk
The Elves Christmas Party at Chichester Festival Theatre, PO19 6AP
Tue 24 Dec
Enjoy party games with Sprout, Stitch and the rest of the elves and explore the workshop, take an ‘elfie and pick a lucky-dip present! 10am-1.30pm. cft.org.uk/offstage/the-elveschristmas-party
Incredible Journeys Into Space this winter
The South Downs Planetarium in Chichester is an exciting place for people of all ages to visit. Sit back, relax and get lost in the stunning fulldome images and breath-taking videos whilst their highly experienced and enthusiastic lecturers take you on a mindblowing journey through space.
In conjunction with the new fulldome video system which produces stunning immersive images and video, the magnificent star projector projects nearly 4500 stars and other celestial objects onto the dome above your head.
The Planetarium puts on new public shows every month, including during the school holidays before and after Christmas.
There is FREE car parking adjacent to the Planetarium building.
For details of upcoming shows and opening hours, visit www.southdowns.org.uk. All tickets must be booked in advance.
