Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 1Issue 120 September/October 2022 Familiesonline.co.uk FREETakeMeHome ValleyThamesWest IN THIS ISSUE New term teething Brilliantproblemsfirst chapter Family-friendlybooks muddy walks 2002-2022 VThamesalleyWest 20 YEARS
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West2 More than a day at school Discover a world of opportunities on your doorstep Independent school for girls aged 11–18 years Independent school for girls aged 11 to 18 years | Cold Ash, Thatcham, Berkshire RG18 9JJ T: 01635 204701 | E: registrar@downehouse.net | www.downehouse.net OPEN EVENING FOR DAY PUPILS Tuesday 11 October Scan to book or visit www.downehouse.net up to DAYCENTENARY100%BURSARIES for 2023 Entry
Uniforms are fresh, and shoes are shiny: welcome to the beginning of the 2022-2023 year! My little one starts school this September, so it’s an exciting time for us - good luck to all the other households where a new academic chapter is beginning! This issue represents a special focus on education. In addition to September/Octobereducation,2022 is an exciting issue for Families Thames Valley West, as it is our 20th Familiesanniversary!magazines have been going for over thirty years, but the Thames Valley West title started with the September/October 2002 issue, and so we are celebrating twenty years now. Look out for some special articles inside!
Berkshire Maestros more and
Congratulations to Yeremenko Kateryna, who won a copy of “Weekend Walks by the Thames” from our May/June 2022 issue.
For families with younger children, there is an article with some useful tips about mealtimes with fussy toddlers, and our outdoor ideas for autumn will suit all ages: have fun!
information
to start your child's musical adventure visit our website www.berkshiremaestros.org.uk
offers musical instrument lessons from just £9 each Lessons held in schools and music centres across Berkshire FREE TASTER SESSIONS AVAILABLE Lessons for children and adults! For
EDITOR: Lesley Chambers 07863 editor@familiestvw.co.uk790592 DESIGN: Rebecca rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.ukCarr NEXT ISSUE: November/December 2022 - Christmas issue Booking deadline 30 September The Team: FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM READINGON-THAMESHENLEY-WOKINGHAM NEWBURY BRACKNELL THATCHAM Where is Families Thames Valley West? Editor’s Welcome
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 3 Families Thames Valley West is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Thames Valley West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Thames Valley West. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. 4 News & views 5 20th anniversary 6-12 Education 13 Coping with your child’s panic attacks 14 Get outdoors! 15 Brilliant first chapter books for early readers 16-18 Clubs and classes 19 Social and emotional health 20 Early Years 21-22 What’s On Cover image: Depositphotos.com IN THIS ISSUE:
Dahl Story Day Every year, the life and works of one of the best children’s authors of all time is celebrated on his birthday, 13 September.
More music education in schools
The plan sets out the government’s ambition to give ‘every child the opportunity to develop a love of music.’
According to the updated guidance, schools will be asked to offer at least one hour of music curriculum a week. Every school will be expected to have a designated music lead or head of department. New app helps turn chores into a game Fighting over household chores (as well as the avoidance of them) can be a significant source of conflict between parents and children, not to mention spouses.
Choreful is now available on App Store and Google Play. Give the autumn term a confidence boost with Perform A common struggle shared by many children as they start school or return after the summer break is a lack of confidence, and this can stop them reaching their full potential. Whether you’re looking for a confidence boost for your child or just a weekly dose of drama, dance and singing fun, Perform is back for the autumn term with two exciting productions for 4-7s and 7-12s.
The term runs from September to December, and children are welcome to try a free class at any point. Venues are in Twyford, Newbury, Reading, Wokingham, Winnersh, Crowthorne, Goring and Henley.
A new app has just been launched which promises to revamp how families divvy up life’s daily responsibilities, turning tedium into a fun and competitive game that both parents and kids can enjoy and benefit from.
Made in consultation with music teachers and young people in the music industry, it involves a raft of new investments and measures to support music education.
To book a free no-obligation trial class visit www.perform.org.uk/try
Join fans from all over the world to celebrate favourite Roald Dahl characters, stories and moments. Get dressed up as your favourite Roald Dahl character at a Dahlicious Dress Up Day event being held at school, by community groups and libraries, or host your own by downloading the Roald Dahl Story Day Party. Visit the Roald Dahl Story Day hub ordaywww.roalddahl.com/roald-dahl-story-atforresourcestodecorateyourhomeclassroom.
Proceeds from the release will also support accessible and creative music activities at “The Music Lounge”, a new contemporary music centre based at The Waterside Centre in Newbury. This exciting partnership between Berkshire Maestros and Berkshire Youth aims to support disadvantaged young people in West Berkshire through regular music sessions based at this new space.
Tens of thousands of children will be given the chance to learn a new instrument as part of a new national plan for music education in the UK.
Twenty-five million pounds will be made available for schools to purchase musical instruments and equipment, including adapted instruments for children with special educations needs and disabilities.
For the first time, students from every corner of Berkshire have come together to write, perform and record the track, across a year-long programme of workshops. The song celebrates the very best of youth music making in Berkshire, bringing together musicians from Berkshire Youth Choir, Berkshire Youth Symphony Orchestra, Reading Soundstage, and more!
CelebrateVIEWSRoald
Students make music ‘Come Alive’ with charity single Berkshire Maestros are delighted to announce the release of ‘Come Alive’, an original song created by young people, raising money to support vital local youth work.
With lyrical themes that reflect on the power of music to guide us all through difficult times, they hope to raise awareness and funds to support Berkshire Youth, an inspirational local charity that is supporting and empowering young people in the county.
During his lifetime, Roald Dahl wrote twenty children’s books and published forty-eight books altogether. He created over five hundred new words and character names, and his books have sold more than two hundred and fifty million copies worldwide.
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West4 NEWS &
Please contact Bookings@berkshiremaestros.org.uk if you would like to make your music come alive.
“Perform is not a stage school” stresses Perform Principal, Lucy Quick. “Our classes teach life skills using fun confidence-boosting drama games which result in a celebratory end-of-term production. The primary aim of our classes is to develop what we call the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and ThisCommunication.”term,Perform 4-7s will venture into The Magician’s Chamber for some confidence-building fun with Merlin the Wizard, whilst 7-12s will work on a funky festive performance of Ebenezer, based on the Charles Dicken’s classic, A Christmas Carol.
The app is essentially a motivational tool that creates some healthy competition with a points and rewards system for each the daily, weekly and monthly household contributions of each family member.
St Joseph’s College remains very much a family school which maintains a focus on academic achievement and growth as a whole person, so pupils are well equipped to flourish in life after St Joseph’s. Find out more at www.sjcr.org.uk
J U S T F O R F U N Answers: 1)20052)20143)20094)20215)20116)20107)20088)2003 *TonyBlair **“The
ReadingJoseph’s20CelebratingYearsatStCollege,
To celebrate, we have spoken to some family-friendly local businesses and some local schools to find out what they have achieved since our first issue. You will find their stories throughout the magazine.
4.
September/October
3.
7.
2. The Ice Bucket Challenge was the big fundraiser of the year. President Obama was sworn in as President of the United States. Popular children’s film “Encanto” was released. Prince William and Kate Middleton got married. The last “Big Brother” show was aired. The Summer Olympics were held in Beijing. The last commercial Concorde flight took place. TideisHigh(GettheFeeling)”byAtomicKittenwasnumberonein theUKchartsatthebeginningofSeptember2002.
2019 marked the 125th anniversary of the foundation of St Joseph’s in 1894 by the Sisters of St Marie Madeleine Postel, and in 2021, St Joseph’s waved goodbye to headmaster, Mr Colpus, and welcomed new head, Mrs Stotesbury to take up the reins and continue the successful leadership of the school.
Magazine’s 20th Anniversary
Leighton Park Happy Birthday, Families magazine! Leighton Park is pleased to have been a part of your 20-year journey; we’re 132 years old now so can spot an excuse for cake! We will be marking both the 100th birthday of Fryer House for Years 7 and 8 next year and our 40th anniversary being fully co-educational, our intake at Year 7 now at 50:50. We’ve invested in our facilities in the last two decades with a new circular restaurant offering glorious views of the 65 acre park, a magnificent Music and Media Centre with live lounge recording studio and media production suite, and we are opening our stunning Sixth Form Centre in September 2023. Our fourth Head in 20 years led us to a ‘Double Excellent’ award from the Independent School Inspectorate in January and two consecutive annual awards for Outstanding Local Community Engagement from the Independent Schools Association. We’ve got plenty to celebrate! Find out more at www.leightonpark.com
Here’s a little quiz to cover events of the last twenty years: which year did these events happen (answers at the bottom of the page)?
1. YouTube was founded.
6.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 5 20TH ANNIVERSAY Families Thames Valley West
YEARS
8.
2002 – twenty years ago – was Families Thames Valley West magazine’s first issue! Eagle-eyed readers will wonder why this issue is number 120 and not 121; we missed one during the pandemic, but otherwise it has been going strong for twenty years!
2002-2022 VThamesalleyWest 20
What were you doing twenty years ago? Who was the Prime Minister?* Were you working or studying or doing something else? Which songs were popular?** A lot happens in twenty years, and it can be fun to reminisce about how things were and reflect on changes over the years. As a parent, it certainly feels like another world to think back on pre-parenting days!
Over the last 20 years or so, St Joseph’s College has evolved and grown significantly, and it has had a lot to celebrate! In 2010, the College became fully co-educational, and since then the number of pupils has grown from 300 to 500 across 3-18. Then, in 2015 St Joseph’s College was proudly named Independent School of the Year at the TES Independent School Awards, where the College also received the Financial/ Commercial Initiative of the Year award, owing to the bold financial decision to make the school more accessible by reducing the school fees.
In
5.
More than a day at School –Discover a world of opportunities on your doorstep
Cheam School, Headley, Newbury, RG19 8LD 01635 268242 I www.cheamschool.com Friday 14 October, 10am–12:30pm
Headmaster of Dolphin School, Adam Hurst, is delighted to announce that the Heather Brough Pavilion opened its doors to pupils this term! It is a modern, eco-friendly building, with light, airy and inspiring learning spaces.
Please contact us if you would like to visit, explore our exciting new facility, and learn more about what makes Dolphin a truly unique school. www.dolphinschool.com
Established in 1963, Padworth College is a day and boarding school offering a highly personalised education, preparing students aged 14 to 19 years for entry to leading universities. Students study I/GCSEs and A Levels, with the EPQ also available in the Sixth Form.
Saturday 5 October, 9am Reddam House, Bearwood Road, Sindlesham, Wokingham, RG41 5BG 0118 974 8300 I www.reddamhouse.org.uk
The new Pavilion delivers approximately 3000 sq ft of new teaching space, including a beautiful library, art room, music room, two further classrooms and WC facilities.
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West6 EDUCATION NEWS
Saturday 24 September, 9am–11am Tuesday 11 October, 6:30pm–8:30pm: Sixth form Friday 14 October, 9am–11am Luckley House School, Luckley Road, Wokingham, RG40 3EU 0118 978 4175 I www.luckleyhouseschool.org
Taking a prominent position at the front of school, it is a wonderful new development, enjoyed by pupils, staff and parents alike.
Crispin Dawson, Principal, effective September 2022 comments: “Padworth College is a wonderfully welcoming and warm community. Every time I have visited I have been struck by the warmth of the relationships amongst staff and between students and staff. When class sizes are small, our teachers can get to know the students really well; they understand how each individual learns and can tailor lessons around them and their needs. It also means the relationship between teacher and student is strong and when students know that their teachers really care, they are motivated to put in that little bit more, and so get the best from themselves.
Heather Brough Pavilion
If you are interested, do come and see me. I would love to tell you more about what makes Padworth special and how we can help your child excel.” www.padworth.com
Our day pupils are fully integrated members of the School community and their boarding house too. As well as enjoying the same bespoke pastoral care and academic support as the boarders, they benefit from an extended day and can join in all the enrichment and extra-curricular opportunities in the evenings and at weekends; many of our day pupils take the chance to have supper and socialise with friends, staying until 8.30pm and, occasionally, beyond! Discover all the flexibility of a day school and all the benefits of a boarding school for your daughter – Book your place at the Day Pupils Open Evening at www.downehouse.net
Saturday 1 October, 9:30am–12pm St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5JT 0118 966 1000 I www.sjcr.org.uk Wednesday 21 September, 9:30am–11:30am: Years 7-10 Thursday 6 October, 6pm–9pm: Years 7-10 Tuesday 18 October, 6pm–9pm: Sixth form
Horris Hill School, Newtown, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 9DJ 01635 40594 I www.horrishill.com
Excellence
Open Days: September/October
Padworth College – Your Pathway to
It also boasts a lovely outdoor decking area, overlooking a pond on one side and the school’s tennis courts on the other.
Downe House is celebrating 100 years at its campus in Cold Ash by offering Centenary Bursaries (up to 100%) for local day pupils. Downe House offers a world class girls’ education and, in response to growing demand, we are delighted to be welcoming more day pupils from September 2023.
Tuesday 6 September, 9:30am–11am: Nursery celebration stay and Saturdayplay 24 September, 9:30am Kidmore End Primary School, Chalkhouse Green Road, Reading, RG4 9AU 0118 357 3149 I www.kidmore-end.co.uk Wednesday 21 September, 9:30am–11am Tuesday 4 October, 9:30am–11am Leighton Park School, Shinfield Road, Reading, RG2 7ED 0118 987 9609 I www.leightonpark.com
To contact the school, admissions@waverleyschool.co.uke-mail or visit waverleyschool.org.uk
In what ways do the older children at Waverley School look after the younger ones? All the children apply for roles of responsibility within the school, from Head Boy and Girl, Deputy Head Boy and Girl, House Captains, Vice House Captains and prefects. All the children complete applications for these roles and are then interviewed. From this, positions of responsibility are appointed, and all the children take these roles seriously. They help supervise lunch duties and help children in their early days at school with their trays and where to empty them, walk them down the corridors and set a good example for them to follow.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 7 EDUCATION
I was privileged to be able to visit Waverley School in Wokingham at the end of last term to chat to the Head, Mr Guy Shore, there. Mr Shore became Head at Waverley School in 2015, having worked at St George’s School, Windsor Castle, before that, and since then he has built the school’s reputation and increased numbers from 96 to 140 children. They have added a nursery, and they maintain a busy sporting calendar with weekly fixtures and house events – the three houses are named after planets!
Waverley School is non-selective and has a welcoming, friendly feel, where staff know all the children in the school, whether or not they have worked directly with them. Mr Shore’s dog, Luna, was present during our conversation; she is always available for children and staff that want to sit with her and de-stress, and children are not shy about peeking into the office to greet Mr Shore from the playground on occasion! I asked about some of the curriculum-based and fundraising events that children have been involved with over the past few years, and I especially loved the “surround the school in silver” fundraiser image of rows and rows of silver coins laid out in the playground!
At the weekend I like to either run or walk our school dog, Luna, in Swinley Forest nearby. I always find it such a peaceful place to visit, and it is a great way to relax at the end of a very busy week.
Meet SpecialHeadthefeature
Have there been any major changes at the school in the last few years?
The house system acts as another family that the children belong to, and all children from Reception to Year 6 are part of a house and have fortnightly meetings, sometimes house lunches or even teambuilding charity events where across all age groups the children all work together.
Children learn best where they are secure, celebrated and encouraged – a really similar setup to a family. It was at Waverley that I recognized a unique warm, friendly family feel, which has just become stronger over the years. Being a single form entry school, with only 21 children in each class, everyone knows everyone well. It has always been a priority here to really get to know our children, and help them develop their Wepassions.share three simple values with everyone who is part of Waverley: we are honest, we’re kind, and we do our best. It sounds straightforward, but we really feel it transforms the experience of working at Waverley for adults and students alike. How do you promote good communication with parents?
What makes Waverley School special in your view?
In what ways does the school work with the local community or other organisations? We encourage our young people to be outward facing and have a sense of community – they are the citizens of tomorrow. This shows itself in any number of small ways throughout the school year, for example our Year 6 pupils write to NHS workers who have to work on Christmas Day, and the letters are shared out at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, and the doctors and nurses read them on Christmas Day. What are your favourite places to visit in the local area?
If your school is interested in appearing in our Meet the Head feature, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Lesley for more information: editor@familiestvw.co.uk
There’s no substitute for face-to-face communication. It’s just so important to be there so that parents can share their child’s day-to-day needs. Every morning and after school, rain or shine, I will be on the gate to welcome the children into school and talk to any parents who need to discuss anything.
As a school we have had a much bigger drive and investment in the technology area in school. During the pandemic when children and staff were working from home we noticed how both staff and pupils’ computer skills had improved due to having to work remotely. We did not want them to regress with this, so we invested in Chromebooks for all pupils from years 3-6 and a bank for year 2 to use in school. The children now use these as a part of their everyday teaching, with homework tasks being set weekly and children handing work in electronically.
Meet the Head: Waverley School
A comprehensive resource Having evolved to keep up with the demands of the exam, Farquhar’s comprehensive resource includes 6 different packs, each with 200 key words and over 1,000 synonyms:
Farquhar’s Vocabulary Resource has been helping children pass the 11+ since 2012. The resource consists of a set of vocabulary-building flash cards which are highly recommended by tutors and schools for CEM and GL preparation.
“The vocabulary element of the exam is really challenging and the sheer volume of vocabulary needed can be quite daunting, even for the most able child. My comprehensive flash card sets are structured in order of difficulty (Level 1-3) which enable children to build up their vocabulary – instilling confidence as they work towards the level required for the exam. I’ve always focused on creating childfriendly definitions which have been stripped back to their simplest form (you shouldn’t need a dictionary to understand a Thesedefinition!).clearand concise definitions ensure children can fully grasp the meaning of a word, ready to recall quickly under exam conditions.”
We asked Mary what makes her resource so valuable for 11+ preparation?
• Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 provide the foundations of a broad vocabulary • Opposites 1 and Opposites 2 focus on synonyms and antonyms
• The sixth pack supports work on tricky compound words. Each pack can be purchased individually or as part of the full boxed set.
A quick round makes the perfect “break” from paper-based practice!
For more information www.vocabularyflashcards.co.ukvisit:
A recent addition to the range is a childfriendly quiz game, aiming to add fun and variety to 11+ preparation.
The quiz game offers a fresh approach to help children improve the homonym and vocabulary-based general knowledge which underpins so many 11+ questions.
Creator Mary Farquhar says “I have been delighted with all the positive feedback I have received over the years from teachers, parents and students and feel privileged to have been able to help so many children secure their grammar school place. When visiting tutor centres and attending workshops and information evenings, it has been a pleasure to share my 11+ knowledge and meet so many parents and bright and enthusiastic students.”
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West8 EDUCATION 1_QAS__Families_TVW_180X130_ September+October 2022_EditionPaddington to Reading in just 26 minutes Day and boarding Full and flexi options available KIND HEARTS FIERCE MINDS STRONG SPIRITS Queen Anne’s is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 11 to 18 BOOK YOUR VISIT: qas.org.uk OPEN MORNING - Saturday 17 September An extensive transport network, across Oxfordshire and Berkshire A ShowcaseMicrosoftSchool 35 acres in the heart of Caversham, Berkshire SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING - Tuesday 27 September Farquhar’s celebrate 10 years helping children pass the 11+
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 9 Discover our independent day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 3 months to 18 years old. BOOK YOUR VISIT: email registrar@reddamhouse.org.uk or sign up via Reddamhouse.org.uk Address: Bearwood Road, Sindlesham, Wokingham, Surrey RG41 5BG. Telephone: +44 (0) 118 947 8300 REDDAM HOUS E BERKSHIRE Open SaturdayDay1stOctober 2022 kind / dedicated / a future change maker We inspire individuality and empower every student to excel
The autumn term has begun and your child has started or returned to school. What kind of challenges might occur over the next few months while your child copes with the changes that September brought with it? And how should you deal with them? Here we look at some common ‘teething troubles’ and what you could do to help.
Expand your child’s antonym and synonym knowledge and achieve a higher 11+ score A vocabularycomprehensiveresourcewithchild-friendlydefinitionsandalistofsynonyms www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk
By Liat Joshi-Hughes
While a lot has changed over the past 20 years, stepping inside Luckley feels very familiar. Our distinctly Christian education, small size, outstanding pastoral care and flexibility remain characteristically unique to Luckley past and present.
Liat Hughes Joshi is a journalist and author who specialises in writing about parenting and family life. Her most recent book Help Your Child Cope with Change is published by Vie.
So first up, check these basics. If they’re getting tired, look to adjust their bedtime, if possible. A giveaway here is if the grouchiness tends to happen towards the end of the week. If it’s hunger, give them a snack for the journey home if you can. Should neither of these be the cause, the grouchies could be down to something they’re finding difficult to handle or upsetting at school and they’re deflecting their stress or anger onto you. Spend some time trying to tease out what might be going on. Are they having issues with friends or being bullied perhaps? Talk to their teacher to find out if they’re aware of any problems too.
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West10
NewEDUCATIONterm teething troubles
Aserves.first-class professional theatre replaces the old swimming pool and allows for spectacular performing arts events, specialist speech and drama classes, and a forum for debating and public speaking. An expanded sports offering, including our new floodlit all-weather pitch and scholars’ programme offers sporting excellence, and the Simon Richmond Music Centre caters for music and music technology, with a recording studio. More than ever we offer curious minds an aspirational setting that ignites passions and encourages pupils to live their lives well. school come new privileges but also new expectations of behaviour. So, perhaps in Reception, children were not expected to sit still for very long, but now they’ve moved to Year 1, they have to stay still and listen more. As ever, do catch up with their teacher to find out what they can do to support your child with the change but also look at practising at home. My child is grumpy after school
My child can’t manage this year’s curriculum Primary school learning is much more of a double act these days, a partnership between parents and teachers. Again, go and have a chat with the teacher to try and understand your child’s level and find out what you can do to support your little one’s reading, writing or maths at home. This needn’t be anything formal, just reading a little more together or encouraging them to do some basic adding up when you’re at the shops or baking. For writing practice, could they write a postcard to their grandparents or other relatives? My child is struggling to behave appropriately With each move up a year at primary VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS 11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS
Retaining the School’s core values, today Luckley is modern and dynamic whilst continuing to be shaped by the individuals it
My child is having trouble making friends Perhaps they’re in a different class or their closest friend has left the school and they’re struggling to adjust and find a new bestie or gang. Regardless, there are a couple of things you can do to boost your child’s friendships. Firstly, of course, talk to your child’s teacher and ask if there’s anyone they think your son or daughter might particularly gel with. Next up, invite them over for a playdate or arrange to meet them and their parent in the park. If confidence is an issue, role play approaching potential friends with your little one…take it in turns.
In 2013 the School was renamed from Luckley-Oakfield to Luckley House and two years later, became fully co-educational.
It’s common to greet your child at the school gate expecting to catch up on news of their day and instead being faced with a grouchy monster. Even if this wasn’t happening in the summer term last year, your daughter or son might be finding the new school year more tiring for whatever reason, or they could be hungrier due to a growth spurt.
A Luckley House School Education Past and Present 2002 2022 VThamesalleyWest 20 YEARS
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 11 Day and boarding school offering a highly personalised education, preparing students aged 14 to 19 for entry to leading universities. • Personalised tuition and study plans • Make lifelong friendships with students from around the world • Range of pathways to higher education • Family feel, offering a supportive environment for students YOUR PATHWAY TO EXCELLENCE T: +44 (0)118 983 2644 www.padworth.com r e g i s t r a r @ c h e a m k + 4 4 ( 0 ) 1 6 3 5 2 6 7 8 2 2 O P E N M O R N I N G E X P L O R E C H E A M | 1 0 0 0 a m t o 1 2 3 0 p m P l e a s e j o i n u s a n d s e e f i r s t h a n d w h y C h e a m i s s u c h a s p e c i a l a n d i n s p i r i n g p l a c e f o r c h i l d r e n t o s p e n d t h e i r f o r m a t i v e y e a r s V i s i t o u r w e b s i t e t o r e g i s t e r f o r a n O p e n M o r n i n g o r t o a r r a n g e a n i n d i v i d u a l t o u r w w w c h e a m s c h o o l c o m C h e a m i s a l e a d i n g i n d e p e n d e n t , d a y a n d b o a r d i n g p r e p s c h o o l , n e s t l e d i n 1 0 0 a c r e s o f B e r k s h i r e c o u n t r y s i d e , f o r p u p i l s a g e d 3 t o 1 3 y e a r s L o c a l a n d L o n d o n b u s s e r v i c e s a r e a v a i l a b l e Friday 14 October OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 24TH SEPTEMBERBOOKwww.horrishill.com/openmorningONLINE FOR CHILDREN AGED 2-13 Families_halfpageSep2022.indd 1 04/08/2022 13:46:05
Once children have learned the separate sounds, they then have to ‘blend’ them together to make the full word. For example, they hear or read ‘c’, ‘a’, ‘t’ and need to put the sounds together to make ‘cat.’
This skill can be a real stumbling block for children because they are working so hard to recognise the sounds that they can’t put them together easily.
Oral blending is the skill to practise here. Oral blending means hearing separate sounds and putting them together without reading the letters too. It’s really helpful to practise lots of oral blending with your children from as young as the age of 2. For example, say separate sounds, a bit like a robot, and get your child to blend them together to make the word. You can do this in sentences e.g. put on your ‘c’, ‘oa’, ‘t’ or let’s go to the ‘p’, ‘ar’, ‘k’.
•
Try I spy with whole words split up or hide some pictures for children to hunt for. The idea is you say the sounds of the object in the pictures separately and they blend them so they know what they are hunting!
For you and anyone who has a child due to start school, here are some tips to get you closer to full admittance of the phonics club! What is phonics? Phonics is a way of teaching children to read and later write. It is based on the fact that letters and groups of letters make sounds and when we put those sounds together they make words. English is a tricky language and sometimes the same letters make different sounds. For example, ‘i’ can sound short as in ‘fish’ or have a longer sound like ‘eye’ in ‘find’.
• Your child will be taught phonics in a specific way at school so ask them to teach you. It’s a great way for them to test their understanding.
• Read, read, read!
Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, headteacher and mother of two. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk) which guides families through starting school with courses, groups and a school starters planner.
• Practise recognising the sounds.
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West12 EDUCATION Best Academic Progress in Berkshire Fully Co-Ed Since 1993 Annual Open Morning: 9.00am, Sat 24th Sept Weekday Open Mornings: 9.00am, Fri 14th Oct & 11th Nov Taster Days for Year 7 Entry: Thurs 13th Oct & Tues 15th Nov Book online at www.leightonpark.com/visit-leighton-park www.compare-school-performance.service.gov.uk phonicsUnderstanding
By Emma Lewry Phonics is one of those things that feels like a secret clubsome people understand it and to others it’s gobbledegook! If you have a child at school, they’re part of ‘the club’ and they may look askance at you when you ask what a digraph or blending is.
• Practise blending - this can be the key to unlock entry to ‘the club!’
Top Tips
There are different groups of letters that make sounds: a digraph is two letters that go together to make one sound e.g. ‘ch’ in is three letters together making one sound e.g. ‘ear’ in As‘near’.children develop their knowledge, they build up and put together all of the sounds they recognise in order to read and write.
Help children to spot when two or three letters work together to make one sound e.g ‘ai’ in ‘rain’ and ‘igh’ in ‘light’.
Achop.trigraph
• If you’re stuck or worried, ask your child’s school for help. Supporting children learning to read can be as frustrating as it is magical.
I hope these tips help you to join the Phonics Club!
Blending can be the key
Teach your child that despite how it feels, these episodes aren’t dangerous or life-threatening.
By Dr Sohom Das Like all parents, I don’t like to see my own children suffering and, as a psychiatrist, my heart goes out to youngsters who come to me for help with panic attacks. However, as I always explain to parents, there are proven strategies that can be used to help support loved ones in this situation. Here are five of my top tips.
Breathe!
Jan/Feb 2022 familiesonline.co.uk IN THIS ISSUE FamilyHealthActivitiesEducationfood FREE TAKEMEHOME FREE!IT’S Get mag!digitalour
Clarifyingalone.
Encouraging your child to slow their breathing should relieve the physical symptoms and interrupt the cycle. Ask your child to breathe in through their nose for three seconds, hold their breath for three seconds, then exhale completely and fully for three Notseconds.only does this assist physiologically, but the exercise itself can act as a distraction. Once they become proficient at this, they can add it to their toolbox for the next time they are having a panic attack, even if you aren’t there.
Educate your child Panic attacks can be crippling but knowledge is power. Young people can be anxious about a range of issues at once, some of which may not seem logical.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 13 PARENTING NEW After school and Saturday morning swim lessons for age 4+ Register your interest www.sjcr.org.uk/satwimschool
Confront their fears If your child suffers panic attacks in specific scenarios or situations, it is very tempting to try to avoid or remove these from their lives. Although this is an effective short-term fix, there is a risk that this may develop into a phobia over time. It’s unrealistic to assume that they can avoid these triggers forever and you might not be around the next time they face this fear. Distract your child The distraction you create could be in the form of a favourite toy, a photograph of a happy event or even petting their hamster. It could be a song that they are familiar with, which you can encourage them to join in. With time and practice (and a sprinkling of patience), you can make a psychological connection to this distraction, which is further embedded every time it is used.
Take charge of the situation During a panic attack, your child will feel like they are losing control. No matter how anxious we may feel, it’s imperative to maintain equanimity and fight our own impulses to show our distress, even if this is what we feel deep down. We need to model calmness by taking charge of the situation. Talk to them in a gentle and reassuring voice and remind them that the panic attack will be over soon. Not only will this make them feel safer, but they might model your behaviour, which could quickly pull them out of the sinking quicksand of panic.
Coping with your child’s panic attacks
Panic attacks can cause hyperventilation. This can result in lightheadedness, fainting and even cause chest pains. In turn, this triggers further anxiety, leading to a downward spiral.
For instance, many children feel self-conscious and believe that people are judging or laughing at them, despite having no evidence of this. When they have a panic attack, some children may even believe that they are dying. Tell them they are not that panic attacks are common and normalising them can help children feel less isolated, abnormal or damaged.
Dr Sohom Das is a forensic psychiatrist and author of In Two Minds: Stories of Murder, Justice and Recovery from a Forensic Psychiatrist. He is also host of the YouTube channel A Psych for Sore Minds. Sign up familiesmag.co.uk/goat
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens
There are lots of fun activities to do, from exploring Cantref Adventure Farm to running around the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Definitely a full day of fun….
Brecon Beacons National Park
The great British countryside is full of stunning walks. And a few rainy days in autumn create lots of muddy slopes you can stroll down. This is fun for the whole family, including young children. After all, can any child resist a muddy puddle?
The structure, otherwise known as the Iron Age Hillfort of Old Sarum, was first built around 400BC. For an experience like no other, wrap up warm and embark on a muddy walk to remember for years to come.
Old Sarum
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West14 GET
Brecon NationalBeaconsPark
The Welsh countryside is home to a multitude of walks. To get started, visit Brecon Beacons National Park (www.breconbeacons.org).
Morden Hall Park Morden Hall Park ( nationaltrust.org.ukwww. ) is an outdoor oasis in London and a great place to escape to. Under 5’s can take part in the Park Explorers programme and enjoy story-led activities.
Old Sarum Ham House and Garden Ham House ( nationaltrust.org.ukwww.) is a seventeenth-century manor in Surrey. The grounds offer lots of fun activities for children of all ages.
Yorkshire is home to some of the most beautiful country walks in England, including Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens (www.nationaltrust.org.uk).
Donnington Castle
Donnington Castle Donnington, West Berkshire, RG14 2LE I hadn’t been to Donnington Castle since I was a child and decided it would be a fun place to have a picnic with the children. The castle is impressively situated on a small hill with wide views over the surrounding area, and it is in a peaceful spot. We enjoyed sitting – and running! - in the middle of what was once the castle, although picturing the layout of the old castle requires imagination. There are still two spooky towers intact with a vaulted ceiling that you can see when peeking through the gates and gargoyles glaring from the walls; however these towers are inaccessible due to locked gates, and so we had to speculate about what it might be like inside and if anybody ever enters. This is a lovely spot, and there are several local walks that take in the castle and its surroundings. I thought the children might be disappointed that there wasn’t more to explore in the castle, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much intrigue can be generated by mysterious towers and ruined walls!
Family-friendlyOUTDOORS! muddy walks for autumn
Tegg’s Nose Country Park
There are miles of walking paths on offer, from the Ripon and Fountains Abbey walk to the Lost Spa trail. Regardless of where you choose to walk, if it rains the grass will be green and the hills will invariably be muddy.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens
To explore the muddy countryside and learn about English history, you can take your family on a walk to Old Sarum ( heritage.org.ukwww.english) in Wiltshire.
Tegg’s Nose Country Park (www.teggsnose.co.uk) in Cheshire is teeming with trails and families of all ages can enjoy exploring the grassy fields. The Gritstone Trail, which runs from Disley to Kidsgrove, travels through Tegg’s Nose. The country park also has a tearoom you can enjoy at the beginning or the end of your walk.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 15 BOOKS
Brilliant first chapter books for early readers
When your child is ready to move on from picture books, there are some wonderful first chapter books aimed at children ages 5 to 9. Many are highly illustrated, with stories that will last over the course of a few reading sessions. Here are some of our recent favourites, all available through your friendly local independent store or www.bookshop.org.
Get ready for aliens, jam, doughnuts, snails, one dastardly villain and a brilliant kid fizzing with ideas! Young inventor Scooter and his alien buddy Fizzbee team up to outwit Daffy Dodgy in a hilarious new adventure. The Marvellous Granny Jinks and Me by Serena Patel, illustrated by Selom Sunu When Jada Jinks finds a box of magic tricks in her granny’s flat, she uncovers her granny’s secret dream of becoming a magician. Inspired by the first Black woman to be admitted to the Magic Circle, this is a fun, inclusive and magical story, with tricks!
Panda at the Door written and illustrated by Sarah Horne
Pudding the Panda of Edinburgh Zoo really wants a family to take care of, just like her heroine, Mary Poppins. When 9 year old Callum is given a certificate to adopt a panda for his birthday, the two come together... and pandemonium ensues!
The Tindims of Rubbish Island by Sally Gardner, illustrated by Lydia Correy
The first in a new series exploring our impact on the environment. Meet Captain Spoons, Mug, Jug, Brew, Skittle and friends, all residents of Rubbish Island, which the inventive Tindims have built entirely from thrown away items. Alien in the Jam Factory by Chrissie Sains, illustrated by Jenny Taylor
By Sarah Campbell, co-founder of Parrot Street Book Club (www.parrotstreet.com)
Don’t forget to say you saw Joseph’s Swim School New! Fun and engaging swimming lessons, small class sizes in private learning pool following Swim England programme for 4+. onsite your For more information www. sjcr.org.uk/swimschool or contact us on swimschool@sjcr.org.uk
interest now!
GR Swimming Schools
Artemis College: Full-time, free training. Ofsted registered - we accept childcare vouchers. Free two-week tryout in all classes! www.bracknellcheer.co.ukRegistration@artemis-studios.co.uk01344429403
ValleylistingstheseinFamiliesThamesWestMagazine St
DANCE & DRAMA
classes with
CLUBS & CLASSES
parking. Register
www.artemis-studios.co.ukRegistration@artemis-studios.co.uk01344429403
GYMNASTICS, SPORT AND SWIMMING Bulmershe Gymnastics Club Based at a purpose-built gym in Woodley, run gymnastics classes for all ages including Leap Frogs for walkers to five years lead by qualified coaches. www.bulmershegymnastics.co.uk
cari@bilinguasing.com07729261018Weston
Uniquely structured, safe, FUN, swimming lessons from 3 years old. Lessons include continual assessment and lane progression. There is a maximum of 6 children per class. We are currently looking for a private indoor, heated pool, 1 or 2 weekday mornings, for much needed community baby & toddler classes in the Newbury/Hungerford area. www.swimlessons.co.ukjo@swimlessons.co.uk
available,
www.babysensory.com/northreadingnorthreading@babysensory.co.uk790405
Artemis Studios & Artemis College Mini & Junior: Artemis Little Actors, ages 4-7, Artemis Junior Theatre Company, ages 7-12. Teen: Artemis Medusa Musical Theatre Company, ages 13-23, Artemis Medusa Pro,ages 13-23. Screen acting and producing, Artemis College – full-time, free vocational training sixth form. Holidays: Low-cost and free holiday classes for children, free three-week summer intensives with qualifications for teens. Ofsted registered, childcare vouchers accepted. Free two-week tryout in all classes!
www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
Artemis Street and Commercial dance: Ages 4-adult. Training in Great Hollands, Bracknell, taught by England Dance Team coach. Technique class with IDTA exams, junior and senior crews.
Contact
Fun
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West16
Clubs classes
Contact Helen for more information 07899
visit
If you are passionate about providing engaging and stimulating play opportunities that nurture your child’s mind, then Master Builders Club is for you! To book your brick building fan a place or to find out more about our events, visit the webite. term time in Sonning Common, Henley and Tilehurst. We provide ideas for creative play, tummy time, massage, movement, and visual development. We use a combination of original and traditional rhymes to develop early speech and language skills.
and
Artemis Cheer & Dance Artemis Cheer: Ages 4-adult, regional and national champions in 2019 and 2021! Training in Pinewood Gym and free holiday training sessions.
French, Spanish and classesItalianfor
sibling discounts. Classes
FREE
directory Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: editor@familiestvw.co.uk.
We also run
Baby NorthSensoryReading winningAwardClassesmonths.fromclassesdevelopmentbabyforbabiesbirthto13runduring
DEVELOPMENTAL CLASSES
BilinguaSing ages 0-11. sensory music the a second language! Trial slots as well as in Wokingham, Bracknell, Thatcham, Purley, Caversham and other Berkshire locations. Monday-Friday. nursery classes and primary school lunch clubs. Cari
Master Builders Club WorkshopsBuildingBrick for Children Master Builders Club is a LEGO® & DUPLO® lovers paradise! Our weekend and holiday workshops, after school clubs, birthday parties and nursery/primary school events are designed to provide children with an exciting and captivating Weexperience.provide 1000’s of LEGO® or DUPLO® bricks in a calm and supportive environment along with the imaginative stimulus to transform a room into a world of creativity.
added bonus of
or
Steppin Out Stars
shelley@steppinoutstars.co.ukemail www.steppinoutstars.co.uk
progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatreyouthgroup@progresstheatre.co.uksession.
offer
Award-winning after-school drama classes for kids who love to ACT! Burghfield, Tilehurst, Lower Earley, Mortimer and Wokingham. High-energy classes mean that students never get bored, can’t wait to get to class and develop confidence, creativity and focus. Free trial class and a Pay-as-yougo option for infants. Ages 5+. Come and join the fun! Full listing of available classes, prices and venues at: https://stageability.class4kids.co.uk club class building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Every child can try a free noobligation class, visit www.perform.org.uk/try 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk Twyford,
Watermill Youth Theatre
The Watermill Theatre in Newbury is one of the most successful the designed to develop fundamental are fully accessible to young people, regardless of need or ability. A range of groups suitable for young people aged 4-25 years. Call Matty Green on 01635 570934 or email outreach@watermill.org.uk www.watermill.org.uk of Tomorrow to 18yrs. drama, Wokingham and Woodley, plus Call Shelley on 07970 034 488, or
020
country. Our weekly classes are
summer schools.
in our next issue e-mail Lesley editor@familiestvw.co.uk for more information Perform Confidence
courses.
Newbury, Reading, Wokingham, Winnersh, Crowthorne, Goring, Henley. Jo@swimlessons.co.uk | swimlessons.co.uk T: 07853 194327 We are an Independent family run swim school — not a franchise *Every child is different, every child is equal* Aquaphobia Coach available – for adults & children CHILDREN & ADULTS SWIMMING LESSONS Advanced Aquaphobia coach available for children & adult lessons in the local area. Uniquely structured, safe, FUN! Lessons from 3 yrs. Continual assessment and lane progression. Max 6 children per class. Waiting list bookings for January 2023 being taken Mumsnow.–looking for a great job outside of school hours? Re-train to be a swimming teacher! ■■■■
performance skills and enhance individuality. Classes
all
Dance,
year. We
regional producing theatres in
singing, tap, street dance, pop styles and musical theatre. Regular award-winning classes in
Venues:
creativity, teach
Progress Youth Theatre Workshops for ages 7-18 involving theatre games, improvisation and skills leading to a stage production every are an Arts Award Supporter and also LAMDA Classes held at Progress Theatre, Reading. Book a FREE taster
development,
www.stageability.co.ukjackie@stageability.co.uk To advertise your
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 17 CLUBS & CLASSES Diddi WokinghamReadingDanceand Funky pre-school dance Specialistchildren&aroundclassesReadingWokinghamforaged1.5-5.toddlerdance programme exploring 16 different dance styles. Using action songs, dancing games, fun exercises, hoops and dance ribbons to our own, unique, funky pop songs. FREE trial available. Ask for details! Contact Bethany Bianga 07584 bianga@diddidance.com281174JGDance Classes from 2.5 to 18 years for all abilities in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Singing, Acrobatics & Drama. Twice Yearly Theatre Performances. Free Trial Lesson. Saturday Theatre College (Twyford) RAD Ballet, ISTD modern & Tap LAMDA singing & Drama. Grades to Vocational ClassesExams. on Tuesday: Woodley, Wednesday: Bourne-End, Thursday: Tilehurst & Twyford, Saturday: Sonning Common, Kidmore End & Basingstoke 01491 www.jgdance.co.ukinfo@jgdance.co.uk572000
COVID secure, fun, energetic theatre classes for 3½
PREGNANCY Happy Births
Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow
To register your child or for further details visit the website: www.kennylandsgymnastics.co.uk
For more information, contact Shelley on 07970 034488, e-mail: shelley@ steppinoutstars.co.uk or visit www.steppinoutstars.co.uk
In the last 20 years our students have put on over 50 shows, and members of our Youth Theatre have been involved in even more of our adult theatre productions both on stage and behind the scenes. Bursary places are available.
Kennylands Gymnastics
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
Photo: Emma Barton (Eastenders and Strictly) and Tom Chambers (Strictly and Holby City): Patrons of the school 2002-2022 VThamesalleyWest 20 YEARS
To find out more, go to progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre
We’re so proud to have a close and friendly atmosphere where the gymnasts are the beating heart of our club.
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West18 CLUBS & CLASSES MUSIC Berkshire Maestros Fun, lively music classes for ages 0-7 led by professional musicians, using a wide range of inspiring resources and real instruments. Lots of singing, dancing, games and playing instruments, building confidence, as well as developing creative, intellectual, social and emotional skills. Session times and details email admin@berkshiremaestros.org.uk maestroswww.berkshiremaestros.org.uk/mini-
Our vibrant Youth Theatre has been offering weekly workshops for young theatre-makers for the last 70+ years. Sessions involve theatre games, improvisations, script work and developing technical production skills. Based in our gorgeous working theatre, we offer a supportive environment for young people to improve their skills, gain confidence and make friends. We grow a passion for theatre in our young people, stimulate their imagination, and help develop their enthusiasm and confidence to ask questions about the world around them.
Little Muddy Boots Little Muddy Boots is an established unique garden and nature club, which inspires outdoor play, hands on learning and time spent as a family making memories. Termly sessions are available alongside PAYG Saturday clubs and Forest School holiday sessions. Suitable for children aged 1-6 years old (siblings welcome). Little Muddy Boots is based at sites located across Berkshire. www.littlemuddyboots.co.ukhello@littlemuddyboots.co.uk
Our gym is full seven days a week, for all ages and abilities, all benefitting from quality coaching in a fun, happy and safe environment. Gymnasts follow a badge award scheme, developing skills on all apparatus to develop core skills in agility, balance, strength and co-ordination. Our squads can train for up to 20 hours per week preparing for County, Regional and National level competitions – this year, at National Grades, half of our eligible gymnasts were selected to represent ‘The South’ at National Finals! An impressive feat as our region spans 3 counties!
Kennylands Gymnastics provides a unique opportunity for learning the value of determination, commitment, perseverance and ultimately to discover a passion for life!
Shelley said “With any business there are the ups and downs. Running over 70 classes a week in lockdown was challenging but created an amazing feeling of belonging to something really very special. I love creating the big, amazing shows in a professional theatre, as so many schools do not offer this opportunity and children love to be on the stage!” Children have taken part in West End shows Matilda, Billy Elliot, The Lion King, The Sound Of Music and Les Misérables.
The school started very humbly as a franchise, and then five years later the magic happened, and Steppin Out became the huge success it is today, boasting over 300 students. Its Principal Shelley Otway was an actress, singer and dancer professionally for over 20 years and then re-trained to be a personal trainer and fitness coach. Several years later she realised that her knees would not be able to continue with the amount of classes she was teaching, and so she set up her school.
Progress Youth Theatre
Preparation is key when it comes to maximising the likelihood of a positive birth experience. Marvel at your body’s amazing abilities, get informed about your options, learn skills to enable you to make the right choices for you, develop a practice of gorgeous relaxation techniques, and get your partner trained up to be the best support on the day. You deserve to feel confident and calm about this super exciting journey to meeting your baby. Contact Sarah Collison, 07740 349946 www.happybirths.netsarah.happybirths@gmail.com
Hypnobirthing classes, Antenatal education, Bespoke birth preparation coaching, Birth trauma recovery therapy
By Camilla Crystal Children and young people with a history of language disorder are twice as likely to suffer from mental health difficulties than other children, and 20% of 4-5-year-olds with a language disorder also have emotional or behavioural problems. As carers, we must nurture our children’s understanding and use of emotive
2. Talk about yourself: ‘Oh no. I dropped my snack. I’m disappointed.’
4. If your child needs visuals, make a core word board (see coreword.assistiveware.com).
Camilla Crystal is a Speech and Language Therapist based in Reading. For more information, contact 07581 067499/ camilla@ccsandl.onmicrosoft.com
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 19 EMOTIONAL HEALTH
Whenvocabulary.children learn their first words, they are expressing their immediate wants (want, like, need) and needs (hungry, tired, sick, thirsty, in pain). By 18 months, they will be using at least 20 words. At 2 years old, emotions are communicated physically, for example, by running around excitedly and laughing or lying on the floor, crying. They can recognise simple emotions such as ‘happy’ and ‘sad’ in pictures and will use at least 50 words. Three-yearold children have progressed to using a 300-word repertoire, and they will say ‘I don’t know’ and ‘I think’; they are beginning to express thoughts and feelings (love, hope, anger). By 8 years old, the child has a wonderful range of vocabulary which enables them to express how they and others might be feeling and thinking in order to make their own judgements and beliefs (know, believe, dis/agree, frustration, elation, joy).
1. Talk about your child and use gestures: ‘You’re hot. Jumper off!’ (shake hands and wipe forehead) ‘You like cake, you’re eating cake!’ ‘You look sad, because you’re crying and trying to take the pushchair’
Social Emotional Mental Health (SEMH): How can we help our children develop their emotive vocabulary?
3. Use books and games: when reading, you can describe a character’s feelings, thoughts and needs. If your child uses one word, model using two words. If they use two words, model using three. The sentences you use must be at the same language level as your child’s.
All of this vocabulary aids in establishing and maintaining deeper conversations and relationships, a deeper understanding of stories and self-control so that they can successfully participate in both school and society. How to help
Helen Runs Baby Sensory ReadingNorth
I first classes,mesmerisingtheseweOrla.mytheinvolvedbecameafterbirthofdaughter,Togetherlovedsimplysowhen the opportunity came to run my own, how could I say no! I ran High Wycombe for ten years. I didn’t know the area and had no experience of marketing but somehow built up a fantastic business. Alongside my class leader, we ran four full days across a large area……. Then BAM! Like many others we were thrown into a completely new world of Covid. I started Hello Baby online, which was hugely popular and even ran a succession of birthday parties too! When we finally came back in April 2021 we went from strength to strength. However, in December 2021 I set myself a new challenge! I sold High Wycombe and took on North Reading, where I first started classes with Orla. I’ve come full circle, I’m nearer to home and love working in the community where I live. Here’s to a few more years meeting gorgeous babies and their families! www.babysensory.com/northreading
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West20 EARLY YEARS
4 www.sjcr.org.uk/admissions
Offer a variety, even foods that are refused. If you offer foods and they are refused and then you don’t offer them again, it’s unlikely that your little ones will grow to accept them. However, if we keep offering rejected foods, they start to become ‘familiar’, and this has been shown to help toddlers to be more willing to try them.
2002 2022 VThamesalleyWest 20 YEARS
My main tips: Start by pretending you simply don’t care if they eat or not. Research shows that the more PRESSURE we put on them to ‘eat up’ the more likely it is to have the opposite effect. So, If you want to help your toddlers to enjoy more foods, try to fight your natural instincts and be nonchalant at mealtimes.
If you speak to the parents of most toddlers, they’ll probably tell you that life is somewhat turbulent!
Pre-Reception from the academic year a child turns
What’s interpreted as ‘fun’ will vary from family to family, but you could start with some calming music, a funky table cloth or kicking off with some silly faces, whatever helps to bring some joy to the table.
Charlotte Stirling-Reed is the Baby and Child Nutritionist. Her new book How to Feed your Toddler, published by Ebury Publishing, includes step by step guides, tips and advice on tricky eating, as well as fifty delicious and easy recipes.
Tricky toddler eating tips
By Charlotte Stirling-Reed
Pre-Reception
Toddlers are at this lovely, exciting age where they are really exploring the world and figuring things out, and their brains are firing and learning new things every day. However, that can come with its challenges, and a BIG one is often seen at mealtimes with food refusal! ‘I don’t like it’, ‘it’s yukky’, ‘I hate broccoli.’ It’s normal for toddlers to be picky with their food, partly due to developing independence, partly due to ‘neophobia’ (reluctance to try new foods) which normally kicks in during the toddler years and partly because growth rates start to slow around this age which can result in their appetites simply taking a bit of a dip.
Employ the line ‘That’s OK, you don’t have to eat it’ and stick to it. Again, taking the pressure off and putting the ball in their court at mealtimes, helps them to have a sense of autonomy and feel like they have some control. In time, this can often help encourage them to WANT to eat a little more. Make it a mealtime they WANT to be part of. If you think about it, toddlers are all about fun and exploring. That’s simply the aim of their day. So, try and make mealtimes a part of the fun journey too.
Pressure Pressure to ‘eat up’ rarely works in the long run. It’s far better to sit back, take the pressure off and focus on making the mealtimes positive occasions for toddlers, including trying to spend time with your little one and engage with them over Insteadmeals. of pressurising kids to eat, it’s best to role model the behaviours and the actions you ultimately want them to emulate so in time they learn HOW to eat and HOW to enjoy a variety of foods.
- Year 6 Book a private visit
Join the Knights of Royal England for an epic display of Medieval Jousting. 10am–5pm 18 ReadingSep Children’s Book Group Fourbears Books, 20 Prospect Street, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8JG Looking at books with maps, books about maps, and creating some maps of our own. Suitable for ages 9-11. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but pre-booking essential 0118 948 1747 or info@fourbearsbooks.uk. 10-11am
Take a walk around our beautiful farm: hundreds of alpacas to see with good photo opportunities. No dogs allowed. £5pp or £15 for a family of 4. 10am –4pm 4 ReadingSep Children’s Book Group Fourbears Books, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8JG Come and talk about your favourite funny stories in the month we celebrate master storyteller Roald Dahl’s birthday. Suitable for ages 5-8. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but pre-booking essential via 0118 948 1747 or info@ fourbearsbooks.uk. 10am-11am 4 TheSepGreat Thatcham Duck Race
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.
Acting |Musical Theatre | Hip Hop |Cheer www.artemis-studios.co.uk.www.bracknellcheer.co.uk.01344info@artemis-studios.co.uk.429403.
1 – 10 UnwindSepOutside Greys Court, Henley-on-Thames RG9 4PG, greys-courtnationaltrust.org.uk/
The Rowbarge, Station Road, Woolhampton, RG7 5SH, rowbargewoolhampton.co.uk This year we will again be holding our hugely popular Duck Race on the Kennet and Avon Canal at The Rowbarge in 10:45am–12:45pmWoolhampton. 9, 19 and 29 Sep Toddler Time River and Rowing Museum, Hill Meadows, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 1BF, rrm.co.uk Sessions with Maddy and with Mr Toad appearing at 11am! Adults £9, under 4s free. 10am–12pm 10 and 24 Sep Peter Rabbit and Friends Storytime Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 cornexchangenew.com5BD, Join our special Saturday morning storytelling sessions with MerryGo-Round Storytelling where the wonderful world of Peter Rabbit will be brought to life. 11am
A children’s trail to help children let off steam and experience calm. £2.
ONGOING Mini 4+ Junior 7+ TryoutsFree2Week FREE 2 week tryout in any class! All classes held in Bracknell. FREE and discounted holiday classes and workshops. Classes for ages 7-24 Full time FREE performing arts sixth form college. Ofsted Childcareregistered.vouchers / Tax Free Childcare accepted. Mini Hip Hop Mondays 4-5pm Appear in real shows, £46.80 term Mini Cheer Sundays 4-5pm Take part in competitions,
Beale Wildlife Park Lower Basildon, Berkshire, RG8 9NW, bealepark.org.uk
10:15–11:30am
17 and 18 Sep Medieval Jousting Stonor Park, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 6HF, stonor.com
18 FobneySep Fun Day with Nature Nurture and Thames Water Fobney Water Treatment Works, next to lock 105 on the Kennet and Avon Canal, Island Road, Reading, RG2 0RP, whatsonreading.com You will get the chance to meet the wild creatures living around Fobney Lock and explore the Turbine House, where Thames Water will share its plans for its restoration. Free entry. 11am – 2:30pm
Wizard of Oz -Wilde Theatre, Feb '23! SEPTEMBER
1 – 25 Sep The Word of Peter Rabbit Storytime Trail The Base, Greenham Business Park, Greenham, RG19 thebasegreenham.co.uk6AB, A walk-through experience where visitors will be able to immerse themselves in The Tale of Peter Rabbit. 10am–4pm 3 WhitleySep Wood Open Day Whitley Wood Fire Station, Reading, RG2 8FS, rbfrs.co.uk The day will include live demonstrations from crews, and guests will be able to go behind the scenes at the station. 10:30am 3 LoveSepUnites 2022 Kings Meadow, Reading, RG1 8BN, whatsonreading.com
16 and 23 Sep Pop Up Play Village Chapel Hall, Vauxhall Drive, Woodley, Reading, RG5 4BG, wokinghamhenleyascotbookwhen.com/ We are a mobile role play village for little ones and we rotate the role play areas every week!
At Beale Wildlife Park, there are 160 species of animals – and families can get up close to some of their favourites. As well as animal experiences, the 40-acre park offers play areas, a narrow gauge train, cafes and beautiful gardens. Special events run in the school holidays.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 21 WHAT’S ON What’s on September & October2022
Summer Barn Cane End, Reading, RG4 9HG, Facebook: Summer Barn Private hire for children’s parties, alfresco private dining, fairylight private dining and shared hire, mother and toddlers, weekday and weekend fun on the farm.
The Festival kicks with the Parade at 12pm with a full line-up of entertainment across three stages all day, along with a funfair, family area, a wide range of food, drink and market stalls. 12pm–7pm 3 AlpacaSep Farm Open Day Bozedown Farm, Hardwick Road, Whitchurch-on-Thames, RG8 7NU, bozedown-alpacas.co.uk £50 term Little Actors Saturday 10.30am-12pm Appear in at least 2 shows a year! £100 term. Junior Hip Hop Mondays 5-7.30pm Technique classes and competition crews, £46.80-£117.00 term Youth & Junior Cheer Sundays from 5pm Take part in competitions, £125 term Junior Theatre Company Saturday 9am-12pm OR 12pm-3pm Appear in at least 2 shows a year! £150 term.
25 TheOctNaughty Fox Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, Norden.farm Snuggle up in a magical den with comfy creatures - Honk, Splash and TaWit TaWoo - as they teach The Naughty Fox a very important lesson: it’s better to share.
24 LittleOctRed Riding Hood Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury, RG14 3BQ, Arlington-arts.com A wolf in granny’s clothing knows all about what fun dressing-up can be, and in Little Red Riding Hood our magical wardrobe opens its doors to a fantastic display of gorgeous garments. 3pm 24, 25, 26 SpooktacularOct Fairground Foray Venues: Sonning Common Village Hall, The Heights Primary School, The Story Museum, Badgemore Primary masterbuildersclub.co.ukSchool, Join us on our brick or treat Halloween adventure and help solve the mystery with all the fun of the fair and 1000’s of LEGO bricks. £16 24 – 27 Oct Half Term Art Club The Base, Greenham Business Park, Greenham, RG19 thebasegreenham.co.uk6AB, Join our art club to experiment with different art techniques and creative projects!
25 PopOctPrincesses
27 TheOctDinosaur Show Tour 2022 South Hill Park, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, southhillpark.org.uk Join Hunter and Shelly as they step back 65 million years on their mission to rediscover the Lost Kingdom of the Dinosaurs. £15. 12pm 27 Oct – 5 Nov The Sleeping Sword Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury RG20 watermill.org.uk8AE, Meet Ben Bundle. He likes fishing and snorkelling, jumping off rocks and exploring the magical island of Bryher with his friends. From £10 28 FiremanOct Sam Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 cornexchangenew.com5BD, When all of his friends go away, Norman Price decides to find adventure in Pontypandy and become the star of a visiting circus.
10am–12pm
The Fortune Theatre, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5HH, atgtickets.com In Ancient Britain, Magical Merlin is the most miraculous wizard ever. So when the baby. King Arthur is born and jealous older sister, Morgan Le Fay, starts turning people into animals, it’s down to Merlin to save the day. Suitable for 4-10 year olds.
29 TheOctAmazing Bubble Man South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 southhillpark.org.uk7PA, Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences around the world for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. £16.50, under 16s £14.50. 2pm
The UK’s favourite science team are back and more explosive than ever! 1pm 24 BabySepand Children’s Market Woodford Park Leisure Centre, Haddon Drive, Woodley, Reading, RG5 babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk4LY, Lots of stalls bursting with top quality LIKE NEW and NEW baby & children’s items from birth to 8 years. £1 per adult, children free. 3pm –4:30pm 24 DickSepand Dom in Da Bungalow Live The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 whatsonreading.com7UA, 20 years after the hit BBC show ‘Da Bungalow’ first burst on to our screens, quadruple Bafta award winners Dick & Dom are bringing their own special kind of mayhem live to Reading! £29. 7:30pm 30 Sep – 2 Oct Dinosaur World Live The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 whatsonreading.com7UA, Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. £14 1 – 9 HenleyOctLiterary Festival Venues: Phyllis Court Club, Kenton Theatre, Henley on Thames Town Hall, henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk Henley Literary Festival is established as one of the UK’s biggest book festivals, and it has loads of exciting events for children. Check the website for details.
16 TheOctVery Hungry Caterpillar Workshop Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 cornexchangenew.com5BD, Make yourself a butterfly friend and take it along to the show! £6 per group (up to 4 people) 10am/1pm
From the producers of Sing-aLong-a Sound of Music and Singa-Long-a Frozen, the smash hit film musical of 2021 about the Family Madigral with lyrics on screen that everyone can’t stop singing.
25 MorganOct & West: Unbelievable Science South Hill Park, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, southhillpark.org.uk Science and silliness abound for ages seven to 107. £13.50, family of 4 £45. 2pm
The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 whatsonreading.com7UA, A musical spectacular starring four fabulous Fairy tale Princesses who just love to sing! £19.50. 1pm 25 – 27 Oct Batty About Bats Nature Trail
24 – 30 MagicalOctMerlin
29 SpookyOct Concertini with Johnny and the Raindrops Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, Norden.farm The band’s thelifebest-time-everrocking-and-rolling-can’t-sit-down-jump-up-and-down-musicisbroughttowithawholeheapofhelpfromaudience.11:30am/2pm
26 ChristopherOct Nibble Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk The guinea pigs of Dandeville love munching dandelion leaves so much that slowly but surely dandelions are disappearing from all over town. From £12. 2pm 26 NickOctSharratt’s Halloween Drawalong South Hill Park, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, southhillpark.org.uk He’ll be sketching gently spooky characters from a selection of his fun-filled picture books, including the hugely popular You Choose’, Shark in the Park’ and ‘Pants’ series. £13.50, family of 4 £45. 2pm 26 and 27 Oct Spy Monkey Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, Norden.farm A new comedy dance film featuring popular characters from the Indian epic, the Ramayana, including interaction with the cast – live!
11:30am/2pm
16 Sing-a-long-aOct Encanto The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 whatsonreading.com7UA,
11:30am/2pm
30 MorganOct & West: Unbelievable Science Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 cornexchangenew.com5BD, Morgan & West present captivating chemistry, phenomenal physics, and bonkers biology in this fun for all the family science extravaganza! 2pm
12pm/3:30pm
Odds Farm Park Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, HP10 0LX, oddsfarm.co.uk Head to our Pumpkin Patch this Half Term and to pick your own pumpkin ready to carve – plus other Spooky Surprises! 9:30am–5:30pm 22 – 30 Hallo’Welly’WeenOct Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, RG7 wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk1SP, Join us this October half term for our biggest, friendliest spooktacular family fun Halloween week!
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West22
2 ReadingOct Children’s Book Group Fourbears Books, 20 Prospect Street, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8JG Pick up a poem to share with us to coincide with National Poetry Day. Suitable for ages 5-8. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but pre-booking essential via 0118 948 1747 or info@ fourbearsbooks.uk. 10am-11am 12 – 15 Oct Pippin Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk Heir to the Frankish throne, the young Pippin is in search of the secret to true happiness and fulfilment. From £15. 15 UnderwaterOct Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, Norden.farm Come with us on a magical journey into the deep blue sea in this beautiful dance theatre piece, created especially for babies aged 0-2 years and their parents or carers. £20 per adult and child. 11am/1pm/ 3pm 15 and 16 Oct The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 cornexchangenew.com5BD, Dive into Eric Carle’s bright and colourful world as his beloved stories are transformed from page to stage using a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets and charming music. 1pm/4pm 16 AppleOct Day Nature Discovery Centre, Muddy Lane, Lower Way, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, centres/nature-discovery-centrebbowt.org.uk/explore/visitorActivities include apple crafts, children’s activities, storytelling sessions, community stalls, Morris Dancers and local choirs.
29 ChildrenOct Screen Print a Halloween T-Shirt The Base, Greenham Business Park, Greenham, RG19 thebasegreenham.co.uk6AB, Join Berkshire Printmakers to create your own original ‘spooky’ tshirt design to scare your friends when Trick or Treating. £24. 10am–12pm
25 TheOctBubble Show Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk
29 TheOctDark Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 cornexchangenew.com5BD, Join Laszlo on his journey to meet the dark, and find out why it will never bother him again. 1pm (touch tour)/2pm/4pm
Join Mr. Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes! From £12. 2pm
Thatcham Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 centres/nature-discovery-centrebbowt.org.uk/explore/visitor-3FU, Join us for a spooky Halloweenthemed trail through our nature reserve. £5 per child. 10am–2pm
28 TheOctGreatest Magician Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk A DAZZLING new MAGIC SHOW presented by the magician most famous for jamming the BBC switchboards after he correctly predicted the lottery. £23.50. 7:30pm
OCTOBER HALF TERM
1pm 19 PhaseOct One Theatre present Rise and Fall South Street Arts Centre, 21 South Street, Reading, RG1 4QU, whatsonreading.com In Rise and Fall you’ll meet all manner of balloons from small floating moons to vast bouncing orbs. £9.50 11:30am 22 – 30 HalloweenOctFestival
WHAT’S ON 18 MinistrySep of Science: Science Saved the World The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 whatsonreading.com7UA,
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West 23 WHAT’S ON Co-educationalEstablishedschool ambassadorsWellbeing Scan to visit usOver 40% girls SeniorAward-winningSchoolbuilding 54% Bilingual Co-curricularactivities 90+ Weeklyfixtures Over 40 languages spokenLeading boys and girls sports teams 11 Forest school classrooms 25 metre pool An Independent Prep School for Boys & Girls aged 3-13 Dolphin School inspires a love of learning that lasts a lifetime... Please visit our website to learn more or contact Kate Spooner admissions@dolphinschool.com www.dolphinschool.com 0118 934 1277 Waltham Road, Hurst, Berkshire, RG10 0FR A Wild Christmas Step into our enchanting wonderland this winter. Journey on the Reindeer Railway, visit Santa in his grotto and feed the reindeer. Pre book bealepark.org.uk 2 5t h Nov – 24th Dec
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Thames Valley West24 “I BELIEVE I WILL READ PSYCHOLOGY AND LINGUISTICS AT OXFORD UNIVERSITY” SIMI Excellent all-round day and boarding education for boys and girls aged 11–18 years, Wokingham, Berkshire. OPEN MORNING Saturday 15 October 2022 “WHERE THERE IS BELIEF THERE IS POSSIBILITY” Book online at: www.luckleyhouseschool.org Tel: 0118 978 4175 Email: Registrar@luckleyhouseschool.org Luckley House School, Wokingham
