A new year can make many of us stop and think about what we have to be grateful for in the here and now. Our health, our loved ones, our homes, as well as what we might like to do in the future and what resolutions we might have. Maybe to slow down a little and spend more time with the family, to spend less time on our phones and be more mindful or simply to read a good book. Whatever your resolutions or plans might be, may 2025 bring you peace, joy, and happiness.
You
Wise words!
are never too old
to set another goal or to dream a new dream.
C. S
Lewis
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A SPY:CO BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR 12 KIDS!
The UK’s No. 1 Self-Hosted Kids’ Party!
Looking for a children’s birthday party that’s fun, unique, and effortless to host? Make your child’s birthday unforgettable with Spy:Co Kids’ Party Mission! Perfect for ages 6–11, these self-hosted missions transform kids into heroes as they solve mysteries or embark on thrilling time-travel quests.
Host anywhere – indoors or outdoors!
From your living room to the garden, park, or village hall, Spy:Co Party Kits include everything you need: exciting missions, secret clues, and agent handbooks.
Parents love Spy:Co for its hassle-free setup, glowing 5-star ratings, and engaging adventures that foster teamwork, build problem-solving skills, and guarantee endless fun!
Win an epic Spy:Co party for 12 kids, complete with a mission of your choice! Enter now and don’t miss the chance to host the most talked-about kids’ party of the year! Please visit our Facebook page @familiesoxfordshiremag to enter. Simply follow our page then like and share our competition post. Good luck! More info: www.spyparty.co.uk
Baby News 8. What's On 11.
EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336 editor@familiesOxfordshire.co.uk
Families Oxfordshire reaches over 40,000 readers and is available through schools, nurseries, hospitals, clubs and classes, selected shops and restaurants. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.
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Looking for a children’s birthday party that’s fun, unique, and effortless to host?
Discover Spy:Co Birthday Party Missions, the UK’s top-rated Spy and Time Travel-themed adventure! Designed for children aged 6–11, these self-hosted parties transform little detectives into mystery-solving heroes. Whether indoors or outdoors, you can host it anywhere – from your living room to the garden, park, or even a village hall.
Spy:Co is the perfect solution for busy parents seeking an engaging, high-quality experience without the stress. Each party kit is packed with thrilling missions, intriguing clues, and agent handbooks, creating an adventure that fosters teamwork, sharpens problem-solving skills, and delivers endless fun.
No need to spend hours brainstorming themes or booking expensive entertainers – Spy:Co makes party planning simple. Choose a mission, follow the straightforward setup, and turn your space into a spy headquarters in no time.
“5-star rating for a 5-star party! If I could give more I would. It was a brilliant, unique and clever concept!”
“The children LOVED this party, and we loved that we could make our own mark on it by choosing the location and adding our own ideas. All the basics are provided for a great party.”
“The kids loved it! We organised the party in a big park.”
“Everything is thought through really well and it’s fun for everyone –for parents to prepare and kids to solve. Will order one again, for sure!
Highly recommended!”
With glowing Google reviews from parents and children alike, Spy:Co is the ultimate formula for an unforgettable birthday celebration. Give your child a party to remember – explore Spy:Co today and see what everyone’s talking about! More info: www.spyparty.co.uk
Solving Mealtime For Busy Parents
Loved by celebrities including Millie Mackintosh and Vogue Williams, introducing Rumble Tums; a next-gen kids meal company setting a new standard in the kids food industry. They are dedicated to nourishing the future by providing nutritionally rich, exceptional quality, flash frozen kids meals specifically crafted for children aged 2-10 years. Never any additives, preservatives, nasties or junk. They aim to make mealtimes guilt and stress free for parents and nutritious and delicious for kids. In collaboration with nutritionist and trusted health influencer Madeleine Shaw who has balanced the proteins, carbohydrates and healthy fats in each meal, as well as packing up to nine (mostly hidden) veggies in. Only using the best ingredients from the UK’s best
farms and suppliers who produce organic veggies, grass-fed meats, sustainable fish and wholemeal pastas, flours and brown rices. The meals are prepared by a team of professional chefs who flash freeze the meals immediately after cooking to keep all the nutrients whole and intact. Rumble Tums has 12 yummy classic lunch and dinner options that kids love and ask for including lasagne, mac and cheese, spaghetti bolognese, fish goujons, honey chicken rice, shepherd's pie, chicken dippers, fish pie and more. All come in two child friendly and age relevant sizes. Parents can order 6 or 12 meals as a one-off, or on a 1, 2 or 4 weekly subscription. Delivered nationwide to your door, ready to eat in minutes.
www.rumbletums.com
ROLL OUT OF FREE BREAKFAST CLUBS TO BEGIN IN APRIL 2025
The Chancellor has announced that up to 750 state-funded primary schools will start offering free breakfast clubs from April 2025.
This initiative will run during the summer term (April-July 2025) as a pilot phase to prepare for a national rollout.
The Department for Education will work with the schools selected as part of the pilot to understand how breakfast clubs can be delivered to meet the needs of schools, parents and pupils when the programme is rolled out nationally.
The Government claims breakfast clubs will help reduce the number of students starting the school day hungry and ensure children come to school ready to learn. It will also support the government’s aim to tackle child poverty by addressing rising food insecurity among children.
www.gov.uk/government/news
Early Gender Gap: Young Girls
Play Outside Less Than Boys
A UK survey reveals that girls as young as two play outside less than boys, highlighting early gender disparities. Conducted by researchers from the universities of Exeter and Cambridge, the study suggests these differences could affect girls' health as they age, with potential impacts on physical activity and mental well-being.
Dr. Kathryn Hesketh of the University of Cambridge commented, "It’s concerning that at age two we’re already seeing these differences in the time that boys and girls play outdoors in nature." The survey also noted that children from minority ethnic backgrounds and urban areas play outside less than their white and rural peers.
Professor Helen Dodd emphasised the benefits of outdoor activities, stating, "When children play in nature, they’re more likely to be active and to connect with and learn about nature." Addressing these early gender differences is crucial to promote equitable opportunities for all children to engage in outdoor play.
More info: www.bit.ly/ExeterPlaySurvey
WORLD BOOK DAY 2025
Put Thursday 6 March 2025 in your diary for World Book Day 2025 and start planning your child’s costume. Marked in over 100 countries, children and schools get involved by dressing up as their favourite book characters and reading together to celebrate authors, illustrators and reading.
Each year World Book Day releases a brand-new line-up of £1 books and issues tokens that children can use to choose one of the books for free Rephrase book list as follows: This year’s line-up of books includes short stories from firm family favourites Bluey; Paddington Bear for beginning and early reading abilities; a search-and-find story from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler; and a selection of poems for every occasion from the 2022-2024 Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho.
VALENTINE’S DAY DELIGHTS FROM LOLA’S CUPCAKES
Valentine’s Day comes with an extra sprinkling of love this February as the talented bakers at Lola's Cupcakes are playing Cupid, having lovingly crafted a range of romantic treats that's sure to leave you smitten.
Delight loved ones with a hand-crafted decadent layer cake centrepiece; tempt your crush with cute cupcakes; or simply sit back and enjoy delicious bite-sized brownies alongside your morning cup of coffee in bed.
Spread the love even further with Lola’s range of nationwide cakes, cupcakes and brownie boxes (with gluten free and vegan options available) which ensure you can send a special greeting no matter where their love nest lies. www.lolascupcakes.co.uk
Urgent Call for MMR Vaccination as One in Six Children Remain Unprotected
The NHS is urging parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated with the MMR jab, as new figures reveal almost one in six children haven’t received their complete doses by age five. The MMR vaccine provides crucial protection against measles, mumps, and rubella, diseases that can lead to severe complications, including blindness and meningitis.
Andrew Gwynne, Minister for Public Health and Prevention, stressed, “Vaccines are our best form of protection against serious illness.” To combat this issue, the NHS has been actively sending reminders to parents, encouraging them to book appointments with their GP practices.
For more fluent and independent readers, Benjamin Dean captivates young adults with a standalone thriller, while Tom Palmer scores with ‘The Soccer Diaries: Rocky Takes the Lead’. More info: www.worldbookday.com
Steve Russell, NHS National Director for Vaccinations and Screening, emphasised the importance of catching up on vaccinations, stating, “We advise parents to urgently check their child’s records and ensure they’re protected from becoming seriously unwell.” Healthcare professionals, including school nurses, are available to provide information and facilitate vaccination appointments.
More info: www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/mmr-vaccine
Take Part in The Big Garden Birdwatch
Get your family involved in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch and help monitor bird life in the UK. With 1 in 4 birds in serious decline, it's never been more important to monitor the UK's bird populations.
It's the world's largest garden wildlife survey and over the past 45 years, volunteers from across the UK have helped the RSPB by tracking the birds living in their gardens and local green spaces.
Simply count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony or in your local park for one hour between 24 and 26 January.
Challenge your children to see who can spot the most birds. Take a bike ride to a local park or make a day trip out of it and spot birds in a new place.
To learn how to take part and get a free birdwatch guide, visit www.rspb.org.uk/ birdwatch
Families Education
The New Childcare Offering
By Purnima Tanuku
Early education and childcare are very expensive, especially for our youngest children and as research has shown, many parents end up working just to pay for their child’s nursery. So why is it so expensive compared to childcare in similar countries? The reason is that the government contribution has been so low and until recently it was limited to children ages 3 and 4. So, when the previous government’s plan to expand childcare support for working parents in England was announced last year, this was great news, not just for parents but also for children. Research shows that high quality early education and care supports their development, wellbeing and has an impact on their education all through their schooling.
WHAT IS THE NEW CHILDCARE OFFERING?
The childcare expansion is being delivered in stages, building on the thirty hours of funded childcare for children ages 3 and 4 which was already available. However, the offer is still only available to families where parents are working at least sixteen hours a week.
THE ROLL OUT PROVIDES: fifteen hours funded childcare a week for children age 2 from April 2024, fifteen funded hours for children ages 9+ months from September 2024. This will be increased to thirty hours funded childcare for all children under age 5 from September 2025. Although government funded hours make a difference to family finances, this funded childcare still involves costs for parents. It is important to be aware of the following parameters:
The thirty and fifteen hours of government supported childcare is not ‘free.’ The government only pays for the actual childcare sessions, which does not include any meals, snacks, consumables or additional activities, so families can expect to see settings make charges for these.
Oxfordshire Nurseries Listings 2025
Helping you find the right place for your little ones - our 2025 guide to some of the nurseries local to Oxfordshire with the latest Ofsted ratings, correct at the time we went to press.
ABC Nursery, Headington www.abcnurseryoxford.co.uk 01865 439051 (Ofsted Good 2024)
Blewbury Pre-School, Didcot blewburypreschool.co.uk 01235 851786 (Ofsted Good 2022)
Busy Bees Day Nursery, Bicester www.busybeeschildcare.co.uk 01869 321 522 (Ofsted Good 2023)
Pippins Day Nursery & Nursery School, Headington www.aurorachildcare.co.uk
01865 227872 (Ofsted Good 2022)
The funded hours are only during term time. Most parents work all year round so providers may ‘stretch’ these hours across the year, reducing the hours per week.
Depending on the length of your sessions, you will need to pay for any additional hours you need at the nursery’s usual fee especially for early or later hours.
IT’S NOT ‘FREE’, IT’S ‘GOVERNMENT-FUNDED’
The offer of ‘free’ childcare launched by the previous government has now been renamed by ministers as ‘government-funded’ childcare. Calling the funded hours free has misled parents and created difficult conversations when providers need to charge for meals and other items not included in the funding.
The Department for Education (DfE) announced late last year that it would be consulting with providers in the coming weeks on new guidance regarding charging parents for ‘extras’ such as meals and consumables. It’s important that the government works with providers to create a guidance that is clear, fair to parents and sustainable for providers.
Although the government offers funded hours, the rates they pay for these have never covered the actual costs of delivering high quality early education and care. When we speak to providers, the vast majority say funding rates do not cover their staffing and other costs and when funding increases do not keep pace with inflation and staffing costs, that gap only widens.
Purnima Tanuku OBE is Chief Executive of National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) (www.nda.org.uk), a charity with a mission to see children and families to thrive through access to high-quality early education and care.
The Aunties’ Old School Nursery, Stanton-St-John www.theoldschoolnursery.co.uk 01865 351215
(Ofsted Outstanding 2022)
The Aunties’ Old School Nursery, Wheatley www.theoldschoolnursery.co.uk 01865 872606
(Ofsted Outstanding 2022)
The Co-operative Childcare Day Nursery Oxford www.thecooperativechildcare.coop 0800 954 0669 (Ofsted Good 2022)
The Farmhouse Nursery School, Witney www.thefarmhousenurseryschool. co.uk 01993 700797
(Ofsted Good 2022)
The Manor Preparatory School PreNursery & Nursery, Abingdon www.manorprep.org/early-years/ nursery 01235 858462
The Old Station Nursery, Oxford Science Park www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/oxford 01865 777167 (Ofsted Good 2024)
The Old Station Nursery, Bampton www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/bampton 01993 850333 (Ofsted Good 2021)
The Old Station Nursery, Upper Heyford www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/heyford 01869 233268
(Ofsted Good 2021)
The Old Station Nursery, Faringdon www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/faringdon 01367 243800 (Ofsted Good 2023)
The Old Station Nursery, Filkins www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/filkins 01367 860594
(Ofsted Outstanding 2024)
The Old Station Nursery, Fairmile, Henley on Thames www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/ nurseries/henley 01491 577716
(Ofsted Good 2022)
The Willow on the Farm, Banbury www.willowonthefarm.co.uk 01608 730143
(Ofsted Outstanding 2019)
YOUR BABY’S BIOME
By Lucy Upton
If you’re a new or expectant parent, you may have heard a lot about the importance of your baby’s microbiome. But what even is it? And why is it important?
The microbiome encompasses the large but invisible community of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and more, that live in various body parts. The one receiving the most attention in recent years is the gut microbiome. Your baby’s gut microbiome affects everything from their digestion (which you might expect) to immune function and brain development.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE MICROBIOME
During the early months and years, up until they reach age 3, babies develop a community of gut bacteria that will last a lifetime. Developing a well-balanced microbiome during these years not only supports shortterm health but will also reduce the risk of conditions like food allergies, asthma, obesity and immune conditions later in life. Several factors influence how your baby’s microbiome develops, some of which you can control and others which you cannot.
Mode of delivery. Babies born vaginally are exposed to their mother’s vaginal microbiota, while caesarean-born infants are initially exposed to microbes from their mother’s skin and the hospital environment. Feeding method. Breastmilk is ideal for growing a healthy gut garden, containing its own probiotics (food to fuel gut bacteria) and a whole breastmilk biome. Babies who are formula-fed are known to grow a different community of gut bacteria but increasingly, formula milks have added ingredients to try and mimic the components in breast milk that help good gut bacteria thrive. When your baby starts solid foods, their gut microbiome undergoes a significant transformation as they experience a diverse range of new foods.
Environment. Exposure to pets, siblings and diverse environments can fuel the growth of your baby's microbiome. A little dirt and outdoor play as your baby grows older are also excellent for their gut community.
Medications. Certain drugs are known to disrupt the balance of bacteria in your baby’s gut. Antibiotics are well-known culprits, but other medications, including some anti-reflux medications, are also known to impact the gut microbiome. However, it’s important to remember that these medications can be essential for treating specific conditions and should always be used under the advice of a doctor.
BREASTMILK AND THE BABY BIOME
Breast milk is a dynamic substance rich in various factors influencing your baby’s microbiome. Research suggests that breastfeeding lowers your baby's risk of certain diseases and helps build a strong immune system.
Below are just a handful of gut-loving components in breastmilk and how they help your baby’s gut garden grow and develop.
Breastmilk’s prebiotics
Prebiotics are fuel or ‘food’ for gut bacteria. Breastmilk is rich in a substance known as Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs), a form of prebiotic. HMOs reach your baby’s gut undigested to encourage the growth of food bacteria and support immune function.
Breastmilk’s probiotics
Breastmilk contains a community of bacteria, sometimes called the breastmilk biome. These help to establish and maintain your baby’s balanced gut microbiome.
Antibodies
Certain antibodies, especially Immunoglobulin A (IgA), help coat your baby’s gut and protect it from harmful pathogens.
Lucy Upton is a specialist Paediatric Dietician and expert speaker at The Baby Show (www.thebabyshow.co.uk) with Lidl GB, taking place 7-9 March at ExCeL London and 9-11 May at NEC Birmingham.
OFF TO A ‘GUT’ START WITH SOLIDS
The introduction of food marks a significant shift in your baby’s gut microbiome. Suddenly, there is an influx of new options to feed the community of bacteria and certain foods are potent fuel - namely, those containing fibre. Whilst it’s essential to be mindful of overall fibre content in your baby’s diet, prioritising a varied weaning diet, including the foods below, will be a key step in nurturing a healthy microbiome.
Fruit. Offer a range of colours and types, such as pureed, mashed or soft finger food options like bananas, steamed apples, raspberries and ripe pear.
Vegetables. Offer a range of options, including green and root vegetables. Many work well as finger foods and/or pureed or mashed options.
Beans, legumes and lentils. These are easy to incorporate mashed or blended into meals or as options like hummus, which is excellent on toast or loaded onto roasted vegetables.
Grains. Oats are perfect for porridge, milled in pancakes or sprinkled on top of muffins.
What’s On
Things to do, places to go and fun to be had for kids of all ages in
Oxfordshire
Adventure Play at the palace
WHEN: Jan and Feb
WHERE: Blenheim Palace
Whether they’re clambering over cargo nets, hurtling along zip wires or exploring secret chambers, Blenheim Palace
Adventure Play is a hidden world of adventure where mini explorers of all ages create their own exciting stories. £5 per adult and £7 per child in conjunction with a valid pass or day ticket. www.blenheimpalace.com
Meet a few friendly farm animals
WHEN: Jan and Feb
WHERE: The Waterfowl Sanctuary and Children’s Farm
Visit the Cuddle Corner to handle baby animals, including rabbits and guinea pigs. Grab a feed bucket and head outside to visit the farm’s other friendly residents and enjoy the playground. £5 per person, cash only. www.waterfowlsanctuary.co.uk
Learn and play at Fairytale Farm
WHEN: Jan and Feb
WHERE: Fairytale Farm
With enchanting tales, interactive exhibits, adventure play and friendly animals, Fairytale Farm provides a unique and engaging environment for families to enjoy. Explore seven exciting zones from the Enchanted Walk and Fairy Dell to Jack’s Yard and Dino Valley! From £8.59 per child, under 2s FREE. www.fairytalefarm.co.uk
A hidden gem in the heart of Witney
WHEN: Jan and Feb
WHERE: Cogges Manor Farm
A unique 18 acre heritage farmstead with 1000 years of history.
Meet the friendly animals – goats, sheep, rare-breed pigs,Shetland ponies, rabbits and guinea pigs, chickens and more. For fans of Downton Abbey, Cogges is the home of Yew Tree Farm and Mr Drewe. Under 3s FREE. Book online or on entry. www.cogges.org.uk
Join the hunt for a good cause
WHEN: Jan and Feb
WHERE: Bunkers Hill Plant Nursery
An ideal way to keep the little ones busy while you browse plants (or eat cake). Each child receives a certificate and prize when they find all the hidden characters and unscrambled the mystery word. £3 per child, which goes directly to Restore the Mind. www.bunkershillgardenshop. co.uk
Meet A Crocodile
WHEN: Jan and Feb
WHERE: Crocodiles of the World Come face-to-face with some of the world’s most feared predators! With under-water viewing, talks, animal encounters and feeds throughout the day there’s plenty to do at the UK’s only Crocodile Zoo. From £11.99 per child. Under 3s FREE. crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk
Creative Computing Club; Code a birdwatch app
WHEN: 18 Jan
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre
Get ready for the Big Garden Birdwatch and create your own bird survey with ‘App Lab’. Young programmers will design and code their app using blocks or text, and can even share with family and friends. Ages 9-14 www.scienceoxford.com/whatson
a NEW ballet for children
Science Club: Sparkling Science
WHEN: 18 Jan
Drop in at the museum
WHEN: Jan and Feb
WHERE: Oxford University Museum of Natural History Stuck for something to do on rainy weekends? Entry into the Museum of Natural history is free! Don’t miss the familyfriendly drop-in sessions every Saturday and Sunday. oumnh.ox.ac.uk
WHERE: The Yang Science Centre Experiment with liquids to grow crystals and paint your own crystal art. Every snowflake is unique! Investigate how ice crystals form these tiny structures and make your own 2D and 3D paper decorations to take home. Ages 5-9 with Science Oxford www.scienceoxford.com/whatson
Family Cushion Concerts
WHEN: 26 Jan and 9 Feb
WHERE: St Hilda’s College
Bring your cushions to sit on and your best singing voice, dancing feet and clapping hands! Learn about different styles of music and instruments with opera singer, Becca Marriot. From £7 per person. Under 1s FREE. www.st-hildas.ox.ac.uk/events
Big Garden Birdwatch
WHEN: 24-26 Jan
WHERE: Anywhere outdoors
It’s easy to be part of Big Garden Birdwatch! Simply choose an hour between 24 and 26 Jan and count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony, or in your local park. Only count birds that land. Even if you saw nothing, it still counts. www.rspb.org.uk/ whats-happening/big-gardenbirdwatch
Take a look at OHS
WHEN: 29 Jan 10.00am-11.50am
WHERE: Oxford High School
GDST
Register for the OHS Senior School open morning for a guided tour with some of the students, to meet the Head, Senior Leadership Team and Admissions team, and to find out everything there is to know about life and learning at the school. oxfordhigh.gdst.net/admissions
Hearts and Hands
WHEN: 1 Feb
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre
Mini-medics get hearts beating, lungs pumping and muscles moving at this anatomy themed Science Club. From anatomy to autopsy, play games and find out how lungs and hearts work together to bring oxygen to our bodies. Ages 5-9. www.scienceoxford.com/whatson
Rocket Power
WHEN: 8 Feb
WHERE: The Yang Science Centre
Propel objects using Isaac Newton’s famous Laws of Motion and launch your own rocket mouse with only empty plastic bottles and air power! Make and improve balloon-powered rocket cars, and experiment to find the fizziest fuel. Ages 5-9. www.scienceoxford.com/whatson
National
Storytelling Week
WHEN: 1-9 Feb
WHERE: Various locations
Launched in 2000, NSW is now celebrated in over 500 schools, libraries, community centres, care homes, pubs, social clubs, castles and campfires, and marked by dozens of events up and down the country each year. Find – or host – a local event! www.sfs.org.uk/nsw/
d’Overbroeck’s Open Day
WHEN: 8 Feb 10.00am-1.00pm
WHERE: d’Overbroeck’s Oxford Senior School
Are you considering d’Overbroeck’s Senior School or Sixth Form for your child? Register for the school’s open day to find out more about life at d’Overbroeck’s, the curriculum and to meet some of the teachers. www.doverbroecks.com/ admissions
School Readiness Parent Workshop
WHEN: 12 Feb 08:45-09:30
WHERE: Oxford High Pre-Prep School
Join Oxford Pre-Prep for an informative and engaging workshop designed to help you prepare your child for a successful start to school, with practical tips and guidance on developing key skills. oxfordhigh.gdst.net/prepevents
Wild Trackers
WHEN: 15 Feb
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre
Crafty Creatures
WHEN: 17 Feb
WHERE: Banbury Museum & Gallery
Looking for an indoor activity this half-term? Little ones 3 and up (with an adult to help) can craft cute creatures that live under the sea at this 2-hour session. £3 per child. Booking essential. www.banburymuseum.org/ whats-on/events
A
play in two days
WHEN: 17-18 Feb
WHERE: Chipping Norton Theatre
In this 2-day workshop, 8-12 year olds will devise a performance from scratch and experience the excitement of performing on a professional stage to an audience of family and friends. £58 per child. www.chippingnortontheatre. com
Intrepid adventurers go wild outdoors and learn how to track animals, Bear Grylls-style! Take a walk in the woodland to spot signs of life and identify who’s-who. Stamp a footprint in mud and make a paw-print cast to take home. Ages 5-9. www.scienceoxford.com/whats-on
Brick Madness
WHEN: 17-21 Feb
WHERE: Banbury Museum & Gallery
This half-term, Banbury Museum & Gallery will throw together their whole Lego collection for a series of massive free-play sessions. £3 per child. Booking essential. www.banburymuseum.org/ whats-on/events
Half-term fun at Millets
WHEN: 17-21 Feb
WHERE: Millets Farm Centre
From puppet shows and baking classes to brick building workshops and disco nights, there’s something to look forward to every day at Millets this halfterm. Prices between £8 and £32.50 per child, depending on activity.
www.milletsfarmcentre.com/ whats-on
Hansel & Gretel ballet
WHEN: 7-8 Mar
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse
Northern Ballet brings an enchanting new show to the stage in Hansel & Gretel, a perfect introduction to ballet for ages 3 and up. The re-imagined classic is brought to life with bold sets, bright costumes and brilliant live music and dance. Adults £18, children £16. www.oxfordplayhouse.com
The Learning Habits of Smart Kids
By Bradley Busch
Want to raise a high-flying child? Here’s how to encourage the good learning habits that ‘smart kids’ demonstrate to set your child up for life.
BELIEVE THEY CAN IMPROVE. Kids can believe they have a fixed amount of intelligence, which can lead to a defeatist attitude towards schoolwork. They might say: ‘I know I can’t do this, so there’s no point trying.’ These children often give up on challenging tasks and reject feedback. Other children believe they can improve. They might say: ‘I find maths difficult so I’m going to try even harder.’ These kids have a growth mindset, believing they can improve by working hard and learning from their mistakes. This makes them better learners.
TRY THIS: Praise your child’s effort, not achievement. Try: ‘I’m pleased with how hard you worked on your writing. What do you think would make it even better?’
DON’T COMPARE. Smart children are more likely to focus on their own achievements and not compare their performance to others. This self-referencing leads to greater motivation and confidence. ‘It’s the difference between saying: ‘I know I’m good at ten-pin bowling because I always win’ and ‘I know I’m good at ten-pin bowling because I used to get 90 points and now I get 110.’
TRY THIS: ‘Your handwriting is really improving. Now try focussing on making your letters all the same size.’ Don’t say: ‘Why can’t you write as neatly as your sister?’
ASK FOR HELP. In late primary school, children can become reluctant to ask for help because they think it’s a sign of weakness. But
one of the hallmarks of a resilient learner is that they ask for assistance if a task is proving difficult.
TRY THIS: Explain to your child that asking for help is the sign of a mature learner. If they’re having trouble with homework, encourage them to seek an explanation from the teacher. LEARN FROM FEEDBACK. Can your child absorb the teacher’s comments and guidance for improvement? Many students see feedback as criticism and are less likely to take it on board.
TRY THIS: Rather than asking ‘Is this okay?’ – a question that leads to them accepting work that doesn’t live up to their ability – suggest that your child asks: ‘How can I improve this?’ Children whose parents have high expectations for them do better at school. A SENSE OF PURPOSE. If children understand why they’re doing a task or how it will help, they are more engaged and make more effort.
TRY THIS: A good teacher prefaces a task by explaining why their pupils are doing it. For example, ‘this will help you understand what we’ll cover in science tomorrow.’ Help your child understand what the purpose of their homework is and why it’s been set: is it a mock paper to help them do better in their SATs, for instance?
Smart kids recognise that procrastination isn’t helpful. Children often procrastinate because they don’t know where to start, the work looks too difficult or they don’t think they can finish it in one go. But once they start, they often realise it’s not as daunting as they thought.
TRY THIS: Set a timer for ten minutes. Encourage your child to start the task, with the promise that they can stop when the bell sounds. Often they’ll want to carry on, as the brain doesn’t like leaving things unfinished. Bradley Busch is a Chartered Psychologist and author of Release your inner drive: Everything you need to know about how to get good at stuff, available from www. bookshop.org
Relaxation and self-care
Being sleep-deprived has a noticeable impact on children’s academic achievement. Sleep is closely linked to children’s learning, memory and emotional control and children who regularly get a good night’s sleep tend to raise their results by one grade per subject in exams.
TRY THIS: Enforce a screentime ban an hour before bedtime and ensure tablets, phone and laptops are not in their room overnight. Using screens before bed could result in your child losing an hour of sleep per night.
Contrary to appearances, smart kids are not the ones who put hours into every homework task and stop going to their after school clubs to revise for exams. Instead they balance their workload with extracurricular activities, seeing friends or just relaxing at home. Physical activity and social contact are linked to mental and physical wellbeing, which has a knock-on effect on their schoolwork.
TRY THIS: Make time to go to the park or for a family walk or run. Leading by example is important if your child is going to achieve a good work/life balance.
SURVIVING TANTRUMS
If you’re a parent of little ones it’s likely that you have to deal with the occasional, or even daily, tantrum. There’s actually quite a lot you can do to prevent/reduce them. Here are some strategies that worked for me.
HAVE PREDICTABLE ROUTINES
Little kids love routine, it makes them feel safe and secure. Keep it simple, for example: breakfast, play, time outdoors, more play, story time, lunch, nap, pick up siblings from school, park, home, play, tea, wind down time bath, book, bed. You get the idea.
Of course there will be days that are different, but now you’ve got a tiny human you will most likely totally understand why your friends who were Mums before you used to be so precious about protecting nap time. ‘Sorry can’t meet you at that time, little Billy/Sophie/ Charlie will be asleep.
DISTRACT
‘No you can’t have another biscuit, ooh quick look there’s a rabbit in the garden’ (no rabbit? then go outside and look for one!)
This one is really useful when your child is very young as they are usually easily distracted. It requires quick thinking though!
Try not to use the word ‘no’ too often though. Being told no all the time is very frustrating, and may lead to more tantrums.
TUNE IN TO YOUR CHILD
Spend as much quality time with your child as you can. Not only will you be meeting a very important need, but it will help you to really tune into your child, and to understand
what makes them tick. A child’s more difficult behaviours will often improve when a parent simply spends more time with them.
LOOK AFTER YOU
Children are little sponges, they will soak up the emotions of the adults around them. How you feel can have an effect on how your child feels and therefore on their behaviour. If Mummy or Daddy is stressed, depressed, anxious, or angry it can be impossible for children to understand what is going on as
they are only just learning about their own emotions. Looking after yourself is not a luxury, it’s vital. If you are not okay parenting is much harder, so never be afraid to ask for help.
TRIED ALL THIS AND YOUR CHILD STILL HAS A TANTRUM?
Stay calm, don’t try to reason with your child once the storm has hit. Your child can’t hear you. If you feel stressed about the situation, step away for a few minutes, but always be sure to reconnect with your child with a cuddle when they have calmed down.
Jane Rogers is founder of The Cambridge Parent Coach. She is experienced in running a number of highly regarded parenting courses, and writes and runs her own workshops for parents. Jane is passionate about Positive Parenting and her aim is to share the ethos and ideas of this style of parenting in a way that is simple to understand, and easy to put into practice. Jane’s two parent workbooks: ‘How to Encourage Good Behaviour so You Can Enjoy You Children’ and ‘How to Use Positive Discipline to Improve Your Child’s Behaviour’ are available on Amazon.
Meet the Head
Oxford High Prep School GDST is a progressive, global and awardwinning independent girls’ school located in leafy North Oxford. The unique curriculum is designed to nurture confidence, curiosity and spark, so that girls can be successful learners and build a strong foundation for exciting futures ahead.
Mrs Jessica Williams became Head of Oxford High Prep in 2019, following roles as Deputy Head and Head of Girls at Ashfold Preparatory School. With over 20 years of teaching and managerial experience, she has taught Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Studies and Maths plus A-level Psychology. A mum of three, Jessica describes herself as a keen walker and occasional tennis player who enjoys walking with her husband (also a teacher) and the family dog, Wilf.
1. What and/or who inspired you to become a teacher and later a Headteacher?
I hadn’t thought of teaching but, whilst at university, I tutored as part of a community interaction initiative. My Dad said that all I ever talked about was my tutoring, so why didn’t I think of teaching…the rest is history!
2. How do you think a Headteacher of a school can make a real difference to an individual student?
It’s a different relationship, because you are not with each child all day every day, but I am very involved and fortunate to have all the pieces of the jigsaw, so I can make sure we are a genuine team with staff and parents around each child. I am lucky to be able to share and witness the joy of school life, but I am also there to care and listen; I can make sure a child’s voice is heard. We have a lot of fun too and, as my Animal Club will tell you, I am always up for something a little unexpected!
3. What advice would you give to parents looking at private education for the first time?
There is no denying the benefits of smaller classes and greater opportunities. Schools like Oxford High Prep School are able to deliver a more bespoke education, and they tend to be a one-stop shop with a lot included in the fees. For example, families appreciate that we do swimming within our curriculum. I think parents can worry about “fitting in” if they are unfamiliar with private education but, certainly at Oxford High Prep School, we have all sorts of families from all around the world, which makes a really exciting, broad and inclusive community.
4. Oxford High Prep School is an all-girls school. Why might parents choose an all-girls school for their daughter?
I’ve taught all-boys, co-ed, and now I am all-girls, so I do know what it’s like from every angle! Overall, girls and boys are different and learn differently. In an all-girls school, we can tailor everything to meet the needs of girls; it’s not about being anti-boys but rather about being yourself and being confident in that. We benefit from the extensive research into girls’ education carried out by the Girls’ Day School Trust we are part of. Evidence shows that girls in single-sex education are more confident as they grow up. A lot of work has been done around the teaching and learning in GDST schools to provide the best possible outcomes for girls in becoming happy, confident women who will go out and make the world a better place.
5. You started your career as a Biology teacher. How can we instil a love of science in our girls from an early age? It’s so important for girls to have the opportunity to experiment from day one! At Oxford High Prep School, we give them the freedom to explore ideas, try them out, play and create; think of the old adage about giving a child a present and they play with the box - we give them the box! It can be slightly terrifying as a teacher, because you never know what direction a lesson will go in, but it’s fun!
6. What is your real-life superpower?
Being relentlessly positive! This is balanced with pragmatism, and I am super organised and efficient. Underneath that, I am ridiculously soft and sentimental, and I genuinely care - the girls can make me well up just by singing a lovely song!
7. With a momentous 150th anniversary next year, are there any new projects in the pipeline that you’re particularly excited about? We are thrilled about our school expansion! This project will create dedicated spaces for Year 5 and 6, along with a new Science lab, music room, performance hall and expanded outdoor areas. This development will allow us to be more connected to our community and will support us delivering a progressive curriculum focused on well-being, outdoor and independent collaborative learning. Additionally, the increased capacity will also allow us to welcome more pupils.
8. What opportunities does the connection to Oxford High Senior School provide for the girls?
We’ve got such great links with the Senior School! The girls love taking part in shared activities - whether it’s planting trees together or enjoying water polo lessons in the fantastic Senior School swimming pool. It’s also a big plus for families that our Prep girls don’t need to sit the entrance exams to move up to the Senior School. By the time they reach Year 6, we know them so well that we can have open conversations with parents about the best next steps for their daughters.
To find out more, visit: oxfordhigh.gdst.net
Perform free trial classes
WHERE: NEW! Wallingford: Fridays and Saturdays. Abingdon: Thursdays and Saturdays
Oxford: Wednesdays and Saturdays. Bicester: Wednesdays Didcot: Fridays
A unique mix of drama, dance, and singing to bring out every child’s potential in a safe environment. Kept small to ensure lots of individual attention, these fun classes will boost your child’s confidence, concentration and belief in themselves. Ages 4-7 and 7-12. try.perform.org.uk
Elite Soccer Tots in Didcot
WHERE: Ladygrove Community Hall: Tuesdays am Fleet Meadow Community Hall: Fridays am Soccer Tots is designed to introduce young children to the exciting world of football in a fun, structured, and engaging way. The sessions focus on developing basic motor skills, coordination, and an early understanding of football through playful, ageappropriate activities. Ages 18 months to 4 years. From £5 a session.
www.eliteyouthsports.co.uk
Wildcats Girls’ Football
WHEN: Saturdays
9.00am-10.00am
WHERE: Oxford City FC
Have fun, make friends, play football! An energetic and inclusive weekly session for girls, running during term-time only. Ages 5-11. £4 per session. www.ignitesportuk.com
Saturday Hoops Football
WHEN: Saturdays
9.00am-10.00am
WHERE: Oxford City FC
This skill school provided by Oxford City Football Club and Ignite Sport UK is a fun introduction to football for beginners, or perfect for those wanting some extra training each week. Girls and boys ages 4-8. £4 per session www.ignitesportuk.com
Family Days at the Science Oxford Centre
WHEN: Saturdays
10.00am-4.00pm WHERE: Science Oxford Centre
Discover and play in the Exploration Zone. Let imaginations go wild at the new ‘Animate Science’ activity. Get hands-on with pop up activities at the Live Lab. Pick up an Explorer Backpack and enjoy 15 acres of woodland and ponds. www.scienceoxford.com
STAGECOACH PERFORMING ARTS
WHERE: Oxford Headington And Woodstock: Saturdays
Henley and Marlow: Thursdays and Saturdays
Oxford Summertown and Witney: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays
Bicester: Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays
Bring out the best in your child and encourage them to develop excellent communication skills, grow in self-esteem and enjoy the benefits of improved coordination. Suitable for children from age 2. From £15 for a two-week trial. www.stagecoach.co.uk
Arti-Techs free afterschool club
Rhymetime in Woodstock
WHEN: Tuesdays 3.30pm-5.30pm
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre
Work on cool projects including creative coding and micro:bits, computer-aided design, soldering and circuits, woodworking, filmmaking, stop motion animation, and more. Arti-Techs can also choose to work towards Arts Award and CREST Award certificates. Ages 11-14. Join the waiting list. www.scienceoxford.com
Mathnasium Learning Centres
WHEN: Monday-Thursday & Saturday
WHERE: Summertown
By producing a tailored, structured learning plan for each student according to their knowledge and skill level, the Mathnasium Method can help children in Years 2-12 better understand maths and leap ahead. Try the FREE maths skills assessment/trialsession. www.mathnasium.co.uk/ northoxford
WHEN: Fridays 10.30am-11.00am
WHERE: Woodstock Library
Come and add to the noise at these fun sessions where your little one can build social, language, and emotional skills. Sing along to your favourite rhymes with musical instruments, toys and giggles! Under 5s. FREE. www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/ residents/libraries/find-library/ woodstock-library
Half Term Active Camps in Summertown
WHEN: 17-21 Feb
WHERE: Summer Fields School Jump into a February Half Term Adventure! Choose from actionpacked Active Camps (ages 4-14) with multi-sports, swimming, arts and crafts and more! Or thrilling Active Adventure Camps (ages 6-14), featuring campfire cooking and basic bushcraft. £54-56 per child, per day. www.oxfordactive.co.uk/activecamps/summer-fields-school
Half Term Elite Camps
WHEN: 17-21 Feb
WHERE: Abingdon, Bicester, Botley, Didcot, Henley, Wallingford, Wantage, Witney, Thame Elite Camps offer a wider range of sports and activities that will keep your child entertained throughout the whole school holidays. Friendly staff foster a positive atmosphere where children learn new skills, have fun, and build confidence while staying active. 4 year olds £20.50 per half day, 5-13 year olds from £33 per day. www.eliteyouthsports.co.uk
Half Term Active Camps in Banbury
WHEN: 17-21 Feb
WHERE: Sibford School
Secure your child’s spot today for an incredible Half Term adventure! Activity camps full of variety and excitement for ages 4-14, featuring multi-sports, swimming, arts and crafts and more. £49 per child, per day.
www.oxfordactive.co.uk/activecamps/sibford-school
MUDDY EXPLORERS HOLIDAY CAMP
WHEN: 20 Feb 9.00am-4.00pm
WHERE: Heath Farm
A full-day, immersive Forest School holiday camp in the beautiful woodland of Heath Farm, Swerford. Your child will have fun exploring the woodland, playing, using tools, and learning about fire. Ages 5+. £40 per child. www.muddyfeettraining.co.uk
YOURPOTE
At d’Overbroeck’s, we’re redefining education by celebrating individuality, nurturing unique talents, and preparing students for a bright future filled with possibility. Whether your child is starting their Senior School journey in Year 7, entering Year 10 to begin their GCSE programme, or joining our Sixth Form, we create a personalised learning journey tailored to each student’s strengths and aspirations.
REGISTER NOW and discover the d’Overbroeck’s difference:
