January/February 2014

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Issue 50

January/February 2014 www.familiessolenteast.co.uk

Advice on bed wetting

7 steps to a smarter child!

Confidence Building Fun Try a Free Drama Class

What to look for in a nursery and tips for parents evening Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with our weekly classes for 4–12s Child development is at the heart of everything we do. So our drama, dance and singing sessions will boost your child’s confidence, improve their concentration and give them an outlet to have fun.

Call 0845 400 1317 or visit perform.org.uk for a free class at your nearest venue.

The essential local magazine for families with children aged 0 - 12

Feed the Birds week Sat 15 to Sun 23 Feb, 10.30am – 3.30pm Take part in bird themed activities, make feeders and get tips on how to look after our feathered friends.

Happy Bird Day! Thurs 20 Feb, 10.30am – 2.30pm Bird themed activities and storytelling for children with disabilities and their families.

Part of Short Breaks Programme.

Booking essential.

www.hants.gov.uk/staunton

Mid week Hide with a Guide Thurs 30 Jan, 10.30am – 12pm and 2pm – 3.30pm Meet an experienced birdwatcher and find out about winter wildfowl and the Haven’s other birds at this time of the year.

Bird Food and Feeders

Tues 18 Feb, 10.30am – 12.30pm and 1pm – 3pm Help the birds this winter by joining us for this activity, where you can make bird food and a simple bird feeder.

Winter Birdwatch Thurs 13 Feb, 8am – 10am Join an expert birdwatcher to view some of our winter visitors, with an opportunity to see waders and wildfowl on the seashore and within the freshwater marshes. Must be booked and paid for in advance.

www.hants.gov.uk/titchfield

www.hants.gov.uk/qecp www.hants.gov.uk

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4 Welcome from the

Editor Happy new year and welcome to the 50th issue of Families Solent East magazine! We’re kicking off this year with a new look magazine, we hope you like the changes and welcome your feedback as always.

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I‘d like to say a huge thank you to all our advertisers, readers and distributors, who continue to make this magazine possible year on year. We definitely couldn’t do it without you!

I wish you all a happy 2014 – I hope the year ahead brings you lots of good luck, love and laugher.

Mandy Earle | Editor

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15

In this issue...

On the cover: Olivia

With thanks to Lorraine Morgan Photography 154 Kingston Rd Portsmouth PO2 7PD 023 9269 6633

Editor: Mandy Earle 02392 362737 editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk Next issue: March/April 2014 Booking deadline: 2nd Feb 2014

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every care is taken, neither Families Solent East nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We

take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the

claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Group: Families Solent East is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.

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Beautiful warm, private pools Small class sizes. MAX 4:1 ratio Baby & preschool lessons available Confidence booster sessions Whatever your age or ability we will help you swim.

News and views Seven steps to a smarter child Choosing a nursery Parents evening advice Overcoming bed wetting 50th issue competition entries What’s on guide Your questions answered

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New pool in Fareha m openin g Jan 201 4

For more info please see our website

Now also taking bookings for adult classes

www.farehamswimschool.com or call

01329 802 208 Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 3

News & Views New private pool for Fareham Swim School Fareham Swim School are now opening a new private pool in the Fareham area, providing swimming lessons with a difference for all ages and abilities including: parents and babies, specially designed pre-schooler classes, confidence booster sessions, after school club and adult lessons.

They believe small class sizes are the way forward. Their teachers are always in the water, the pools are clean and warmed to an average of 32’ & all their office staff are qualified teachers so when you call them, you can talk to somebody who knows their stuff!

Prices start at £9 per lesson. To book a trial lesson or have a chat, visit www.farehamswimschool.co.uk or call 01329 802 208

Southsea Greenhouse – looking forward to a new year After the exciting year Southsea Greenhouse had in 2013, this year is already looking like a good one. Last year saw the opening of the community garden at Canoe Lake, Southsea, and the subsequent awards won for their efforts, including a ‘gold’ Portsmouth in Bloom and a Social Enterprise award . The garden welcomed many families to wander around the vegetable beds as well as to a number of excellent workshops. Children made fairy houses out of things they found in the garden, went pond dipping, and enjoyed seeing the frogs.

This year Southsea Greenhouse are organising Portsmouth in Bloom which will include a category for families and schools. Watch out for more news on this and also information about workshops at the garden to help you plan your entry. It may be cold and dark outside, but you can still look forward to a great year of gardening!

www.southseagreenhouse.co.uk

1st -8th February National Storytelling Week

Seven days of reading, sharing and listening with the 14th Annual National Storytelling Week. Schools, drama clubs and performance groups across the country will hold events to celebrate.

Visit:

www.sfs.org.uk/nationalstorytelling-week

Peek a Boo moves creative dance for toddlers Peek a Boo Moves is a creative dance, arts and play organisation based in Emsworth. They run an annual programme of holiday activities, family workshops, hunts and trails, seasonal makes and projects inspired by the outdoors and seasons.

They also run a weekly class 'Peek a Boo Moves' on Monday 10-11am at Emsworth Community Centre for 1 - 4 year olds (adult accompanied) which is a fun structured session of dance, song, movement, play and art. The sessions are planned to support child's development in speech and language, co-ordination, social skills and support the relationship between child and adult. Children explore a different theme every two weeks including jungle, out and about, farms, healthy bodies, under the sea, the seasons and more! For more info like us on Facebook or call Jo 07947 374222.

Water Babies Portsmouth and West Sussex Teaching water confidence and safety techniques from birth, the uniquely structured Water Babies programme is designed to make the most of babies’ natural affinity with water. With progressive training, babies can be taught lifesaving skills such as turning onto their backs or, following a sudden submersion, swimming to the nearest solid. And it’s so important that they do. More than a dozen Water Babies have saved themselves from drowning using the skills they learned with us, despite being very young at the time.

Swimming from birth is excellent for babies’ development, providing a

4 | January/February 2014 | Families Solent East

Cyril the Sea Serpent at Ryde District Heritage Centre

Founded in 2011, Ryde District Heritage Centre, in the basement of the Royal Victoria Arcade, Union Street, Ryde, is open from 11am - 4pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the winter months.

Cyril the sea serpent is Historic Ryde Society’s logo. There is a dedicated page on the Historic Ryde Society website, www.historicrydesociety.co.uk/welcometo-cyrils-page and a brief ‘Treasure Trail’ around the Centre, highlighting important objects in the collection. Cyril Stickers and colouring sheets are also available for children.

RDHC welcomes visits from youth and school groups, and community groups.

Visits can be arranged outside normal opening hours if required. No charge is made for such visits, but a donation to the on-going costs of running the centre would be appreciated.

Coffee mornings for community groups are offered at £3 per person. This includes a brief history of Historic Ryde Society and the Centre, and a guided tour of the exhibition. Please visit the website, www.HistoricRydeSociety.com, email admin@HistoricRydeSociety.com, or phone 01983 717435 during opening hours for further information.

Entry is £2 for adults, children under 16 are admitted free of charge.

complete physical workout which in turn aids the development of the brain. What’s more, regular swimming can enhance their awareness and improve eating and sleeping patterns – a definite bonus!

With a clear emphasis on having fun, lessons are generally very sociable occasions – and excellent for strengthening the bond between the two of you. Water Babies lessons run across West Sussex.

For more info call 02392 231 007, email Cheekymonkey@waterbabies.co.uk or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk.

XXXXXXX Is BPA really so safe?

By Susan Tomlinson

Banned in plastic baby's bottles across the EU, Canada and the US, yet the UK government is convinced the chemical Bisphenol A, or BPA is entirely safe. Is it?

From tins, and plastic bottles, to boxes, dental fillings and even shopping receipts, the chemical is present in a huge range of objects.

Let us bring the toy shop to your home

To find out more visit

www.thehareandthebroom.co.uk or call Hannah 07714 100107 Sally 07401 544540

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Its main job is to make plastic shatterproof, so, in the world of packaging and manufacturing, it's crucial. The trouble is, since the 1930's, it's been associated with all sorts of health problems. It’s what’s known as a suspected endocrine disruptor, meaning it mimics the body’s hormone system, and has been linked with diabetes, obesity, cancer and even behavioural problems in children.

But the jury’s not out yet. Other research shows that the small amounts of the chemical that leach into our food and drink are of an acceptable level and at present that’s where the UK’s Food Standards Agency sits. But the EFSA is presently reassessing all the data and is due to report back in 2014. In the meantime, more and more BPA-free products are coming onto

market. In fact, many food companies are beating government policy by using alternatives. if you’ve got you’re doubts about BPA, and a product isn’t specifically labelled BPA free, you can avoid the chemical by looking at the plastic recycling code on the side of the container. Anything marked with the recycle code 7 or 3, may contain BPA.

Cut back on using cans, as most of them are lined with a BPA resin.

Avoid heating plasti c containers in the microwave or the dis hwasher, as they may break down ov er time and allow the BPA to seep into foo d or drink.

Use glass, porcelain or stainless steel wherever possible.

Join the Breast Canc er UK, in their "No More BPA" camp aign. www.nomorebpa.or g.uk

Win a family ticket worth £330!

Elderflower Fields Festival is a magical weekend of fun activities, eclectic music and great local food, designed especially for families with children in mind.

This year Elderflower Fields will take place from Friday 23rd to Monday 26th May in the heart of the beautiful Ashdown Forest in Sussex. There will be over 40 musical acts on two stages, sports and arts camps, urban wood activities, wildlife and environmental projects, music theatre and dance workshops. To win a weekend family ticket, answer the question below before 12th February:

An Elderflower is: a) A drink b) The flower on an elder c) An old flower Enter online at www.familiessolenteast.co.uk/competitions

Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 5

Seven steps to a

smarter child Education Secretary Michael Gove’s plans for a more rigorous primary school curriculum introduce fractions for five-year-olds, a complete sweep of British history and a comprehensive survey of Shakespeare. The reforms don’t stop there, as today’s teens will face tougher GCSEs too. But don’t despair - there is plenty you can do to help your children meet these tougher standards.

Give them a good breakfast There is no doubt that a high-protein diet can feed those little grey cells. In fact, researchers at UCL Institute of Child Health have discovered that a proteinrich diet increases the size of the brain’s caudate nucleus, a feature associated with higher intelligence. 1 Serving a high-protein breakfast makes children more alert because it lowers levels of the brain chemical serotonin. If you opt for healthy cereals like muesli, add nuts to boost protein content. If your child refuses to eat much, make a high-protein smoothie with yoghurt or tofu.

Make sure they eat their greens (and yellows, reds and oranges) No doubt about it - evidence shows that children who eat a diet high in fruit and veg have higher IQs than those who subsist on processed and

School is about to get tougher, but there are many ways you can help boost your child’s brainpower.

sugary foods. Based on data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, there is a direct correlation between eating habits and IQ scores.

Start early if you want maximum benefits, although it’s never too late to turn a bad diet around. 2

Ditch dental fluorides Fluoride is a neurotoxin accumulating in brain tissue and affecting brain development. Yet on average we ingest up to 1,000 times more fluoride than any other heavy metal through fluoridated water, food and dental products. The latest evidence from Harvard confirms that high levels of fluoride dramatically lower IQs in children, and may even cause or exacerbate learning difficulties.3 Choose toothpastes free from fluoride and if you’re worried about your child’s teeth, get an electric toothbrush and teach them how to floss properly.

Chuck them outside Children stay indoors so much these days that nearly three-quarters of American children are low in vitamin D, which can lead to high blood pressure, rickets and unhealthy bones. Vitamin D is also crucial for the development of the nervous system, including the brain. As Britain has even less sunshine than the US, it’s likely that the problem is every bit as severe here. Make sure children are outside for at least 15 minutes a day, and unless they burn easily, don’t put sunscreen on them until they’ve been out in the sun for at least 10 minutes. 10

Feed them the good fats Top of this list are the omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) found in fish oils, which can dramatically accelerate learning. In one study, after three months of taking supplements of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, children were a year ahead of their peers in reading ability and demonstrated far neater handwriting. 4, 5 Brain scans also showed an improvement in brain development. 6 Fish oils can also protect the brains of your children from the worst effects of junk food. New evidence from the University of Liverpool shows that supplements appear to protect the brain against inflammation triggered by a high-fat diet, and can help restore

6 | January/February 2014 | Families Solent East

normal brain functioning. 7 And don’t shy away from fish. Although concerns have been raised about mercury levels and other pollutants, the goodness in fish outweighs any dangers.

8, 9

Don’t overlook saturated fats Although received wisdom has it that saturated fats are bad for children and contribute to ADHD, they actually assist in the conversion of EFAs into the longchain forms the body needs. Always choose butter over margarine and fullfat milk over skimmed.

Keep metal out of their mouths (and everywhere else) Don’t allow your children to have ‘silver’ fillings - ever. Research has found a direct link between levels of mercury in the mother’s hair at the time of birth and the likelihood of the child developing ADHD. 11 Like fluoride, the aluminium sulphate present in our water supply has also been found to cause brain damage.

Studies have shown that exposure to aluminium causes changes in the brain similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease. 12 Besides aluminium, children with developmental and behavioural problems may have high blood concentrations of lead. Researchers from the South & West Devon Health Authority examined samples from 69 ‘problem’ children and found significantly higher lead concentrations in their blood than in 136 normal control children. 13 Never cook with aluminium utensils and opt for an under-sink filtration system that removes all heavy metals like lead from the water supply. If your house is old, check what your pipes are made of.

Encourage them to meditate Meditation appears to permanently enhance brain receptivity. Several studies have tested the effect of meditation on our ability to react to repetitive stimuli like light flashes, and the brains of meditators continue to react to the stimuli — an indication of a heightened perception of every moment. 14, 15 Besides increasing mental ability, meditation also appears to integrate emotional and cognitive processes, so aiding intuitive learning.

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Researchers from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood found a clear association between eating fast food and immunerelated diseases like asthma and eczema.

’

Five kiddy brain killers A diet heavy on fish fingers and fast-food burgers prevents the brain from generating new nerve cells. 1 Most processed foods contain trans fatty acids, which inhibit conversion to long-chain fatty acids like omega-3s.

Aside from lowering your child’s IQ, fast food increases the risk of severe asthma by a whopping 39 per cent in teens and 27 per cent in younger children. Researchers from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) found a clear association between eating fast food and immune-related diseases like asthma and eczema.2. It is almost impossible to ban junk food from children’s diets altogether, but you can make it more difficult by never having it at home.

Fizzy drinks

Wheat Wheat (as well as soy, barley and rye) has high levels of glutamic and aspartic acids, which can affect the brain’s neurons, causing over-activation of nerve-cell receptors and possibly leading to nerve injury. 4 The antioxidant agents in wheat called ‘phytates’ interfere with vital minerals that are essential for the growing brain. 5

Chinese takeaways and sweeteners The flavour enhancer monosodium glutamate (MSG) and the artificial sweetener aspartame are considered ‘excitotoxins’, which are lethal to children’s brains and can disrupt certain pathways, causing memory loss, as well as causing hyperactivity, low intelligence, poor school performance and irritability. 6, 7, 8 Watch out for sweetened items like kiddy vitamins, gum or juice drinks. And whenever you order a Chinese takeaway, ask them to hold the MSG.

Mobile phones Some 200 or more studies confirm the damage to the growing brain caused by mobile phones. In addition to facing a greater risk of brain tumours, children who grow up using mobile phones can suffer from learning difficulties, attention deficits, sleep problems and memory loss. 9, 10 It’s almost impossible to avoid giving your preteen or teen a mobile phone, but you can try to limit their use and tell them to hold the phone away from their heads when they’re using it.

Never let them keep it next to them when they are sleeping.

1. Br J Nutr, 2013; 109: 1573–89 2. Thorax, 2013; 68: 351–60 3. J Epidemiol Community Health, 2006; 60: 750 4. Ji S. The Dark Side of Wheat—New Perspectives on Celiac Disease & Wheat Intolerance; 5. Brain Res, 1986; 393: 169–75 6. Arch Neurol, 1986; 43: 1058–63 7. Cerebrovasc Brain Metab Rev, 1993; 5: 61–94; Neurobiol Aging, 1989; 10: 593–602 8. Roberts HJ. Aspartame (NutraSweet): Is It Safe? Philadelphia: The Charles Press, 1989 9. BioInitiative 2012, online at www.bioinitiative.org/report/index.htm 10. www.emfacts.com/2008/04/881-rncnirp-warning-on-children-and-mobile-phone-use

This story was first published in the magazine What Doctors Don’t Tell You, available in selected retailers like WHSmith or by subscription. It is a real eye opener! See www.wddty.com Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales), Company limited by guarantee number 08570737 (England and Wales)

While you’re at it, keep soft drinks out of the kitchen too. A can of drink contains 10 teaspoonful’s of sugar, which will certainly not help the learning go down! 3

References

2014

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Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 7

Education

How to choose your child’s nursery It’s one of the most important decisions you will make for your child in the early years. So which nursery is the right one, and how do you know?

There are all sorts of different nurseries out there. Big ones, small ones; ones run by the local council, and ones run by independent companies. There are nurseries attached to primary schools, and there are stand-alone nurseries. When you start out looking for one, the plethora of what’s out there can make it all seem very daunting.

But here’s the first, the most important, and possibly even the only thing you need to know about how to make your choice.

Listen to the voice inside your head, heed your instinct about what’s right for your child, and you’ll almost certainly make the ‘correct’ choice. Because the truth, of course, is that there isn’t a ‘right’ nursery or a ‘wrong’ one; there is, however, a nursery that will suit your child best, because it will mesh in with your own and your partner’s ideas about how to raise a child, and what matters most in his or her life. All of which is why what you feel inside you about a nursery will give you the biggest guide as to what to go on.

Looking round To kick the process off, you’ll need to put together a list of nurseries in your area (or perhaps in the area where you work, if you’re thinking your child can be cared for at nursery while you work nearby). Comb through the nurseries in your area online; look at the Ofsted reports for any you think sound promising.

Think about what factors matter most to you in a nursery (see our checklist) and then make appointments to look around a selection of those that have, or might have, vacancies.

When you look round, don’t be too anxious about all the questions you need to ask or whether you’re going to miss something vital. Instead, switch on all your ‘vibes’ and take in the holistic sense of the place. Does it feel friendly, and welcoming, and a fun place to be, from what you can see of it?

Do staff treat you warmly – are you convinced by what they’re telling you? Do you, in a nutshell, feel a sense of confidence about the place; would you feel confident about leaving the most important person in your life, your child, here in the care of the people you’ve met? If the answer is yes, the nursery you’ve just seen is a possible one for you; if you have any doubts whatsoever about this most crucial thing, whether you’re confident about leaving your baby there, cross it off your list at once.

Your nursery checklist

Here are some things you might need to think about:

Food - How well do they cater for special dietary

requirements? Is it important to you that food is organic?

Where do they eat and at what times?

Outdoor play space - Think about how important

outdoor play is to your child, and decide how much importance you’re going to attach to whether the nursery has a garden, how big it is, and how many activities take place in it.

Flexibility - How flexible will the nursery be if you need to swap a day or: add an afternoon? This may be important to you if you job/situation is likely to change.

The next step - Does the nursery feed into a particular school and is that the school you would like your child to attend in the future.

Wi-Fi - Do you have worries about Wi-Fi and its potential impact on young children? If so, make sure you ask about whether there’s a Wi-Fi network at the nursery, and how extensive it is. See www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation

Let’s talk...Montessori!

So what does a Montessori Nursery do?

I have heard of it, but what is it?

1 Practical Life (including simple, practical tasks aimed at

It is a method of teaching that first came about in the early 1900’s. Maria Montessori was born in Italy in 1870 and was the first Italian woman to qualify as a physician. She worked with children with learning disabilities and from this she developed a unique range of teaching materials and an educational philosophy which is still internationally respected and practiced today, over one hundred years later.

What is the ‘Montessori method’?

The Montessori Method is based on child directed learning.

This learning takes place in a specially prepared room, which includes Montessori apparatus. The apparatus promotes hands-on learning designed to allow the child to discover and correct their own mistakes.

The underlying principle within a Montessori nursery is freedom, independence and self discipline. Great importance is placed on social interaction and children are encouraged to help and respect each other and their environment.

8 | January/February 2014 | Families Solent East

There are six main areas to Montessori education:

encouraging independence, such as, sweeping and learning how to tie a bow).

2 Sensorial (specially devised activities to help refine the senses and enhance perception and concentration).

3 Language and Literacy.

4 Mathematics.

5 Cultural (geography, history and science activities).

6 Creative (art, music and drama).

Surveys show that early Montessori education has a longterm impact on transition to school. Children of Montessori transition excellently on an academic level.

With thanks to The Children’s House nursery, a family run Montessori nursery based in Fareham.You can telephone to arrange a visit on 0844 800 2279

XXXXXXX Does your mind go blank during parents evening?

By Howard Jones Kip McGrath Education Centre Portsmouth

In ‘good hands’ at Mayville’s Pre-prep department When 6 year old Jessica William’s mum Abigail drops her at school she feels happy in the knowledge that she has chosen Mayville for her daughter’s learning journey.

“I love the school, it is a real family environment, as a parent it feels very safe, I know my daughter is in good hands and she is wants to come to school because she is happy there.”

Mayville’s Pre-Prep department is a bright airy friendly building nestled in the heart of the school, where pupils gain all the opportunity of being part of a bigger establishment.

This means specialist teachers in French, ICT, P.E and access to the schools playing fields, 20 acres in Southsea.

Class sizes are small, with 12 pupils on average, (maximum 16), which means every child can be truly treated as an individual. Teacher Anne Awis says, “Small classes mean I can see instantly if a child needs help and I can sit with them and tailor the curriculum to their individual needs.” Boys and girls are taught separately in the core subjects, because Mayville believe this best meets their specific learning needs. Deputy Head Jenny Lewis says, “Boys and girls learn in such different ways, we can tailor teaching and lessons to cater for this.

The Childrens House Montessori Nursery

Parents evening can be a hassle; fitting it in, dealing with childcare, and then remembering that thing you (or your other half) wanted to mention can be hard.

Here are some ideas to help parents evening run smoothly and make this important part of home school communication more productive.

Talk to your child

Ask your child if there is anything they are concerned about or want to say to the teacher. Communication is two way, and it will encourage/help the teacher to know how the children are feeling.

Write it down

Make some notes and don’t be afraid to take them. What is the key thing you want to find out? e.g. How can I help at home? What is my child’s attitude to learning? What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses? Can I see the Individual Educational Plan (If your child is on the SEN register)? How can I communicate with you more/better?

Focus the conversation

Talk about the child rather than the school. If you feel the school is doing something wrong or you don’t like a certain policy e.g. homework or behaviour, you need to take it up with the leadership (head teacher).

You only have 10 minutes (maybe 15)

Don’t store up big issues: make an appointment with the teacher if there is a big problem to discuss, or it can’t be covered there and then. Teachers need to get through a long list of appointments, so overrunning your time stresses out the teacher and makes them late for other parents.

Aim to be positive 239 207 West Street, Fareham

New Baby & Toddler House

OPEN JANUARY 2014

At times we do have issues we are concerned about but try not to start on the offensive. Explain your concerns and ask for solutions and support. Essentially parents and teachers want the same thing, happy children making good progress. If you aren’t happy arrange to speak to the head teacher.

Remember, parents evenings are only part of home school communication so don’t be surprised if 10 minutes is not enough. Is most cases teachers are happy to talk more at a convenient time.

239 West StreetFareham

Central Location Swimming, French and Football Classes 3 months to 5 years Call to book a viewing

0844 800 2279 Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 9

School & Nursery News Horndean Junior School trial ‘Explorer Club’ project The purpose of the new Explorer Club project is to link the children's learning to their own interests and the wider community. The children shared their interests and hobbies with the group before setting off on a trip to Waterstones, Petersfield where they purchased a book related to their interests. The final step of the project took the children on more trips in the community, two students visited Goodwood Race Circuit where they were shown the cars and their engines, while three others visited the RSPCA Stubbington Ark, and one student who wanted to find out more about watercolours received a 1:1 hour tutorial with an Art teacher at Southdowns College. They then made PowerPoint presentations of their experiences and presented them to their parents and VIP guests.

Haylands Primary Play trail is reborn There has been great excitement at Haylands Primary School in Ryde, with the installation of the new play trail. The school is very pleased with the work carried out by ‘Garden Karma’, who have provided a fantastic play area for all the pupils to engage with, plus no more black rubber marks in the weekly uniform wash for the parents!

‘We now have some excellent pieces of equipment that will develop imaginative play and physical development’.

Says Head Teacher Stef Hopper.

The Children’s House opens new Baby and Toddler nursery The Children’s House Montessori Nursery is set to expand this January as they open a second nursery in Fareham. Due to increased demand, the new building will open its doors to the only baby and toddler nursery in Hampshire.

Established in 2005 the nursery has gone from strength to strength, starting with just 5 mini Montessorians, they now provide childcare and education for 80 children at 207 West Street, and the new building at 239 West Street will accommodate a further 30 little ones each day.

The new house, just doors away from the Montessori preschool, is inspiring and has been designed with babies & toddlers in mind. The Children’s House is delighted to welcome all new parents and carers to show them around the new baby and toddler unit.

The Ofsted registered nursery accepts childcare vouchers and two year old funded places are now available. For all enquiries or to book a viewing, please phone the nursery on 0844 800 2279.

Mayville nursery holds Drop-in Day Mayville’s Pre-Prep Department is holding a Drop-in Day on Tuesday 13th February 10 - 11:30 am, 1 - 3 pm and 4 - 6 pm. Pop along to see what their nursery can offer your child.

35 - 37 St Simons Road, Southsea PO5 2PE Call 02392 734 847 for more information.

Wear a Hat for Brain Tumour Research On Friday 28th March, please join other families and schools (as well as companies, groups, shops and associations across the country) in supporting #WearAHatDay on Friday March 28th 2014 - it’s going to be bigger, hattier and more fun than ever! #WearAHatDay is the UK’s premier brain tumour awareness event, taking place every March during national Brain Tumour Awareness Month. Thousands of families and children in homes and schools across the land take part every year – wearing hats of all shapes, sizes and colours, getting involved in an amazing array of fun and inventive events, making and collecting donations from everyone around, all helping to raise awareness and funds for vital research.

Brain tumours are scary – this disease is the biggest cancer killer of both children and adults under 40 yet the science is woefully underfunded, receiving less than 1% of national cancer research spend.

Stand out from the crowd and wear a hat for Brain Tumour Research on March 28th.

Register today for your #WearAHatDay event -Hat-phone: 01296 733011, Hat-mail wearahatday@braintumourresearch.org, Hat-web www.wearahatday.org PS. Don’t forget to share your photos with us on Facebook & Twitter!

Has your school or nursery been busy this term? We would like to hear what you’ve been up to!

Share your news and stories with the Editor - Email editor@familiessolenteast.co.uk or call 02392 362 737

10 | January/February 2014 | Families Solent East

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How to help your child overcome wetting the bed

By Elisabeth Dolton Wetting the bed has been the hardest childhood ailment for my children to grow out of. Banishing that wet monster did not come easy and we are not alone. Although all children eventually gain bladder control at night, they do so at different ages, and many children over the age of five still frequently wet the bed. In fact, around 1 in 7 children aged five, and 1 in 20 children aged ten, are frequent bedwetters.

Why children wet the bed is hotly debated. For three out of four kids, either a parent or close relative also wet the bed in childhood. Other causes are overactive bladder syndrome (involuntary passing of urine), or not enough hormone that regulates urine production.

Researchers have found that deep sleepers are more likely to wet the bed, as the brain doesn't get the signal that the bladder is full.

Children sometimes don’t go to the toilet due to fears such as being scared of the dark. Starting to wet the bed especially after being dry can be due to emotional problems such as stress and anxiety. Although rare, constipation, diabetes, or an infection can cause bedwetting.

Experts agree there is no one single cause of bed-wetting, and there are a number of methods that can help.

Drinking and eating

“Avoid or limit foods that that are spicy, or high in sugar or fat, including fizzy drinks,” says Alyson Carter, a Registered Nutritional Therapy Council Practitioner. “These foods can irritate or inflame the bladder, loosening the muscles, making it harder for a child to keep control.” Fresh foods, and calming foods such as oats, are recommended. Alyson also advises restricting fluids from around 1 ½ hours before bedtime.

Support

Parents may be embarrassed to broach the subject, but your GP can take blood and urine tests to rule out any illness or infection, or refer you to a clinic.

“We went to see our child’s teacher,” said Sarah, with 7 year old Isabella “and discussed how children asked and went to the toilet.

We asked her to help ensure our daughter went to the toilet regularly.”

Exercises

There are specific exercises that can strengthen or expand a child’s bladder. “Our doctor suggested that when my son needed the toilet, I make him wait at least 10–20 minutes longer. This helped his bladder expand,” said Lisa, mum to three boys. Another exercise is when they are on the toilet have them go, then stop for a few seconds, then go again, so that they are strengthening the muscles.

Lifting and night pants

Waking your child to go to the toilet, and wearing night pants can increase confidence and help for sleepovers. However some believe these should be avoided because they interfere with the child’s individual motivation to wake up and use the toilet.

Complementary and alternative therapies

Several complementary and alternative therapies have been tried including acupuncture, chiropractic care, and hypnosis. While some parents have reported great improvements it is not a fix all.

Behaviour therapy

For younger children motivating them with a sticker chart and rewards is effective. Self-awakening therapy helps older kids

recognise when their bladder is full. A simple self-awakening routine may be just before they go to the toilet during the daytime, they lie down in their bedroom, pretend to sleep and think about their full bladder and needing to go.

Re-training

Bedwetting alarms specifically help train your child to wake when they have a full bladder. The alarm’s sensor detects dampness and eventually, the child’s brain learns to pay attention to bladder signals and wakes up naturally before wetting the bed. “They have been so easy to use, the girls had no problem with them and the message really got through,” said Kim, mum of two daughters.

“The results were amazing. Not every child will react so quickly, but I would highly recommend giving it a try,” Sam. There is no doubt bedwetting feels embarrassing to talk about and it can be stressful, but every year 15 percent of children who wet the bed, become dry, with no intervention. They will all outgrow it eventually, but if you and your child are motivated to get dry, choose your method and stay positive. It worked for us.

Thanks to Alyson Carter, Registered Nutritional Therapy Council Practitioner, www.nut4life.com

Top Tips

Make the bed in several layers, alternating a fitted sheet with a waterproof pad. This allows you to quickly and easily remove the wet items and avoids the need to re-make the bed Leave dry pyjamas and towels out so that your child can find them easily Make sure there are no hidden fears or problems about getting up at night. For example, fear of the dark or spiders, getting up from a top bunk, etc. Try leaving the bathroom light on and keep a clear path to the bathroom.

Use waterproof covers for the mattress and duvet, and use absorbent quilted sheets. A moisturiser cream is useful to rub on the skin that is likely to become wet, to prevent chaffing and soreness.

Set a reward for your child of getting up at night to use the toilet. Instead of focusing on making it through the night dry, help your child understand that it is just as important to wake up in the night to use the toilet Bedwetting can damage the child's self-image and confidence. Prevent this by being supportive and reassure them that bedwetting is common and that they will overcome it Try to be sensitive to any family or school disruption that might be stressful to your child. Do not tease or allow siblings to tease a child who has wet the bed Encourage your child's co-operation to be dry at night.Give simple explanations about what is happening and how the bladder works. Go to the toilet before going to bed.

Encourage your child to help change any wet sheets. This will increase their awareness and may give them extra motivation for them to get out of bed and go to the toilet to avoid the chore of changing the sheets.

Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 11

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12 | January/February 2014 | Families Solent East

50th issue competition

Our front cover winner

Olivia Rose Hall All the entries to our 50th issue front cover competition were so lovely that it was extremely difficult to choose a winner! But we finally managed to agree on little baby Olivia who is just 9 months old and who is helping us celebrate 50 issues and nearly a decade of Families Solent East magazine!

Olivia lives in Copnor with mum Melissa and dad Steven, who both work as supervisors at Toys R Us. Melissa says ‘It doesn’t take much to make Olivia laugh, she’s always been a little smiler. She loves us reading to her and singing nursery songs to her, her favourite nursery rhyme is ‘wind the bobbin up’.

Olivia also loves being tickled and chased by her dad and her favourite TV programme is Waybaloo.

Thank you to all those who entered

Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 13

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What’s On

To see your event listed on the se pages call 02392 362 7 37

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Your guide to all the best family events this January and February Although we aim to be as accurate as possible, the events listed in our What’s On section are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check full details.

Cartoon Capers for Under-5s @ the Gallery 8th Jan, 2 – 2:45 pm

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT. 023 9252 3463

Galleries for Beginners! Hands-on fun, dressing up and activities linked to famous cartoon characters like Spot, Peppa Pig and Elmer. Free, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Woodcarving at Queen Elizabeth Country Park 11 – 12th Jan,10 am

Gravel Hill, Horndean, PO8 0QE. 023 9259 5040

Demonstration by the Crossway Carver's a local woodcarving club, in the Visitor Centre.

Art meets Archaeology – Felt making 12th Jan 10 am – 3:30 pm Fishbourne Roman Palace, Roman Way, Chichester, PO19 3QR. 01243 785859

Join in for a practical workshop to explore historic textile techniques and have a go at making felt.

This day-long session is part of an on-going series of workshops for 11-18 year olds interested in art. Participants will also have the opportunity to complete the nationally recognised Arts Award.

Cost £25

3 part level 2 dressmaking 13th, 20th & 27th January.

6:30 - 9:30 pm Make Craft Cafe, 4 Albert Road, Southsea, PO5 2SH

Making great soft flannel pj's.

Learning how to put in a waist band and understanding how to put crotch area together. Email info@makesouthsea.com

Wessex CanCer TrusT ChrisTmas 7pm for 7:30pm - Carriages 11:30pm Carol serviCe Haggis Supper and Dancing Saturday 25th January 2014

At Best Western Royal Beach Hotel, Southsea PO4 0RN

3 part beginners crochet 14th, 21st & 28th January Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH 02392 822026

A 3 part course, excellent as a refresher or for beginners.

Session 1, learn your casting on skills and the classic stitches.

Session 2, continuing stitches, changing colours and granny squares (you could go onto make your own blanket from this and help at our charity crochet night!). Session 3, learning to make different shapes and a flower brooch. Includes all materials £50.

Email info@makesouthsea.com

Anne of Green Gables 15th Jan 1:30 pm

to Woodsiders Barn Dance Tuesday December 7pm and Ceilidh17th Band at St Thomas’ Cathedral, Old Portsmouth PO1 2HH

Featuring:

Tickets: £19.50 per person

• Compere Tim Daykin from Radio Solent To book advanceCancer go online to www.linkedupfundraising.co.uk/events andinWessex Trust Chaplain or call 023 9281 4875 or email clare@linkedupfundraising.co.uk • HMS Nelson Royal Navy Volunteer Band • Simon Long – Tenor • Quay of Sea Voices

Tickets: £8 per person To book in advance go online to www.linkedupfundraising.co.uk/events or call 023 9236 0212 or email clare@linkedupfundraising.co.uk

RegiSTeReD CHaRiTy NuMBeR 1110216

January

BURN’S NIGHT BARN DANCE

Spot the dot for free events

The Spring Arts & Heritage, 56 East Street, Havant

Adapted from Lucy Maud Montgomery’s bestselling novel.

Anne will leave you warmed with laughter. Beautiful music and the usual Forest Forge magic and mayhem. Suitable for all the family, ages 5+ Cost £7.50

Hand Stitched Patchwork 16th January, 7 – 9 pm

15–23 feBrUArY

Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

Local textile artist, Georgina Giles, teaches the traditional technique of patchwork using hand stitching. All material included £35 Email info@makesouthsea. com

Sewing machine school 16th, 23rd, 30th Jan & 6th, 13th Feb Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

HALf Term fAmILY fUN AT SPINNAKer Tower

5 part sewing machine course for 8+ years. Learn the basics and complete projects on the way.

All materials included. £45. Email info@makesouthsea.com

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Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 15 11/12/2013 11:21

16791 SPIN Familes Solent Ad 87x130.indd 1

What’s On The Hospital during WW1 18th Jan, 1:30 pm Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Abbey, SO31 5GA

In this 100th anniversary year, find out about life at Royal Victoria Military Hospital during the busiest period of its lifetime.

With a talk and slide show by the well-loved author and historian Philip Hoare. Please book in advance. Optional tower tour at approx. 3.30pm (only 12 spaces).

Normal parking charges apply.

Cost: Talk £5pp, tower tour £4/ adult, £2/child.

Kings Theatre Open Day 18th Jan, 10 am - 5 pm

Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea, PO5 2QJ, 02392 828282 Experience the Kings Theatre as you have never seen it before as they open their doors for an action-packed day of tours, activities and workshops - take a trip backstage and up to the fly floor (not normally accessible to the public) Get involved in producing your own arts and crafts, dress up in costumes from different eras, explore the world of puppetry. Pre-book for all workshops and tours to avoid disappointment. Early Bird £4.00, On the Day £5.00, Family Early Bird £10.00, Family on the Day £12.00

Wall-E (U) 19th Jan, 2 pm

Kings Theatre Main Auditorium, Albert Road, Southsea The Theatre becomes a cinema for a screening of Wall-E

3 part beginners knitting 23rd, 30th Jan & 6th Feb. 7 – 9 pm Make 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

Introduction/Refreshers course in knitting. Learn to cast on and off, change colour and look into understanding patterns. Includes refreshments and materials and you keep your own set of bamboo needles £54 Email info@makesouthsea.com

Burns Night Barn Dance in aid of Wessex Cancer Trust 25th Jan. 7 pm Royal Beach Hotel, St Helens Parade, Portsmouth, PO4 0RN 02392 814875

Burns Night Barn Dance in aid of Wessex Cancer Trust at Royal Beach Hotel £19.50 per head Includes traditional Burns Night Supper and Ceilidh Band and Caller. www.linkedupfundraising.co.uk

Snowy Storytime 25th Jan, 11 am – 12 pm

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT Snowy activities and story. For under 10s accompanied by an adult. Free, just pop along.

Horrible Science of Submarines Show 25th Jan. 2 pm – 3 pm Gosport Discovery Centre

Learn about the truly horrible side of living on board HMS Alliance and how smelly submariners coped with life on board. Free, but please book.

Hide with a Guide 30th Jan. 10:30 am – 12 pm & 2 pm – 3:30 pm

Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve, Cliff Rd, Fareham, PO14 3JT. 01329 662145

Meet an experienced birdwatcher and find out about winter wildfowl and the Haven’s other birds at this time of the year.

Normal admission rates to the Reserve apply, there is no extra charge for the Hide with a Guide service.

February Care of Henry 1st Feb, 2:30 pm

The Spring Arts & Heritage, 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS For children aged 4+ and their families. An adaptation of the best-selling children’s book by Anne Fine. Cost:£8 adults, £5 children.

Sid’s Show 2nd Feb, 2:30 pm

Ferneham Hall, Fareham.

Join Sid from Cbeebies live on stage in a fantastic fun-filled adventure and interactive experience perfect for families with children aged 3-7.Tickets £11.00, Family Ticket £40.00

Level 3 dressmaking 3rd,10th,17th Feb 6:30–9:30pm Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

3 part course. If you already have experience making simpler items on your sewing machine but would like to take the next

Manor Farm and County Park

step this is the course for you. All materials included £110 or £80 with your own fabric. Email info@ makesouthsea.com

Refreshers/Beginners Sewing Machine Skills 4th Feb. 6:30 – 9:30 pm

Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

Learn how to thread a sewing machine, wind a bobbin, what different stitches are for and have a good practice before making a cushion. All materials included. £40. Email info@makesouthsea. com

Fun with Elmer Elephant 5th Feb, 10 am – 12pm

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT, 023 9252 3463

Crafts and stories based on the lovable Elmer stories. For under 5s and their parent/carer. cost £4, booking needed.

Go-Karting Krazy 6th Feb. 7.30 pm

Team Sport, Gosport PO13 0FP. 02392 814875

For Headway Portsmouth and South East Hampshire, teams up to 8 people, £22.50 p/h Includes supper and 1.5 hours racing. www.linkedupfundraising. co.uk or call 02392 814875 to book. Ages 16+

Woodcarving 8 – 9th Feb, 10:00 am

Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Gravel Hill, Horndean, PO8 0QE. 023 9259 5040 Demonstration by the Crossway Carver's, a local woodcarving club, in the Visitor Centre.

'Jersey Be Good' Bag 11th Feb. 7 – 9 pm

Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

Intermediate knitting or crochet workshop. Join in to make your own knitted/crochet bag using 'Wool & The Gang's' jersey yarn 'Jersey Be Good'. Great way to experiment with jersey. Course includes all materials £25 Email info@makesouthsea.com

Winter Birdwatch 13th Feb, 8 am – 10 am

Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve, Cliff Road, Fareham, PO14 3JT

Join an expert birdwatcher to view some of their winter visitors, with an opportunity to see waders and wildfowl on the seashore and within the freshwater marshes. Must be booked and paid for in advance.

Price: £5.00 adults/£3.00 children.

16 | January/February 2014 | Families Solent East

What’s On Free Machining 13th February 7 – 9 pm

Make, 4 Albert Road, Southsea, PO5 2SH

Illustration using a sewing machine. Intermediate workshop introducing free machining.

Those wishing to take part need to have a good grasp of the basics already. It’s a fantastic and quick technique that could transform and personalise many mundane items in your house.

All materials included £20 Email info@makesouthsea.com

EPB Masquerade Ball 14th Feb, 7:30 - 11:55 pm

Langstone Hotel, Hayling Island.

02392 814875 in aid of The Education Business Partnership Portsmouth. £50 per head. Adults only. www.linkedupfundraising.co.uk or call 02392 814875 to book

Half Term

15 – 23rd February Woodfuel Boiler Guided Walk and Talk 15th Feb. 1:30 pm

Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Gravel Hill, Horndean, PO8 0QE. 023 9259 5040

A 1 hour guided walk looking at the Park's biomass project. Meet at the Visitor Centre at 1.30pm.

Booking essential.

Family Fun Days 17th – 21st Feb. 10am - 4pm

Fishbourne Roman Palace, Roman Way, Chichester, PO19 3QR Ancient crafts and costumes.

Activities will run throughout the day. There is no need to book, just pop along and join in.

Children should be accompanied by an adult.

Off the page and onto the screen! Peter Pan, 17th Feb

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT

Peter Pan - Story time and Activity 10 – 11 am. Listen to a Peter Pan story and make something to take home with you. Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult. FREE, but places may be limited due to space. Film Showings 11:30 am & 1:30 pm. - Watch Disney’s ‘Peter Pan’ on the big screen. FREE! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dressing up optional!

Bird Food and Feeders 18th Feb, 10.30 am, 12.30 pm, 1 pm & 3 pm Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Help the birds this winter by joining us for this activity, where you can make bird food and a simple bird feeder. Turn up and take part £2 per Child, suitable for all ages.

7 Stream Media Interactive Filmmaking Workshops 17th Feb, 10-11.30am for ages 8-11 years, 12:30–3 pm for ages 12-15 years Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT 023 9252 3463

Children can discover how the film and television studios use the magic of green-screening techniques to create special effects and illusions, by making their own style scene in a group. You could be flying like Peter Pan or running away from the crocodile, go dressed as a character from Peter Pan (optional) £5 (Includes a DVD of your work) Book as places are limited.

A two day magic school 18th & 19th February.

9:30 – 3:30 pm

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, PO12 1BT, 023 9252 3463

For children aged 7 to 12 (please bring a packed lunch) Magician Matt Blossom will be revealing the secrets of magic including how to make things vanish, incredible mind reading feats and street magic tricks! All frogs, wands and potions will be provided on the day. Each child receives a certificate at a special graduation ceremony at the end of the last day. Tickets £25, numbers are limited, so please book soon.

Cowboy Max 19th Feb 11:30 am & 2:30 pm The Spring Arts & Heritage, 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS 023 9247 2700

Hold on to your hat and glasses, it’s the Wild West extravaganzaThe Cowboy Max Show. Cowboy Max packs a frontier-sized punch with trick roping, whip and joke cracking, magic and songs. You’ll cheer the good guy as you enjoy an action-packed spectacle. One lucky audience member will even earn a badge as Cowboy Max’s new deputy. £8 adults, children £5 or £3 if booked with the morning workshop.

www.portchesterca.org.uk B

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admin@portchesterca.org.uk

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02392 210048

Toy Library for little people aged 0-5 years The Borrowers Toy Library visits each group fortnightly:

Portchester Library, Fareham Library, Oak Meadow Children’s Centre, Merryfields Children’s Centre, Keepsake Children's Centre, St. Johns Church, Ranvilles Community Centre.

Registered Charity No. 301920

The Elves and the Shoemaker Trail 15th – 23rd February, 10:00 am – 3:30 pm Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley Abbey, Southampton SO31 5GA

Follow a self-guided trail around the Park. Help the Elves find the clothes the shoemaker and his wife have made them. There's a prize if you get all the way round.

Trails available from the shop between 10am - 3.30pm. £1.50 per trail. Normal Parking charges apply.Cost: £1.50 per trail

Half Term Fun on the Farm 17th – 21st February. Open from 10 am Manor Farm Country Park, Pylands Lane, Bursledon, Southampton SO31 1BH

On the farm join in a week of activities for children including farmhouse arts and crafts, Victorian school lessons, guided farmyard walks and 'Meet the Animals'. In the Country Park try the Spring Trail starting at Barnfield, there will be a small charge and a prize for successfully completing the trail.

Cost: Normal farm admission applies

Off the page and onto screen! Winnie the Pooh 20th Feb Gosport Discovery Centre

Storytime and Activity 10 – 11 am - Listen to a Winnie the Pooh story and make something to take home with you. Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult. FREE! but places may be limited due to space.

Film Showings 11.30 am & 1:30 pm. Watch Disney’s Classic ‘The Many adventures of Winnie the Pooh’ on our big screen.

Showings at FREE! Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Strong Island Media - Winnie the Pooh Animation Workshops 20th February. 10am – 1pm or 1.30 - 4.30pm Gosport Discovery Centre

Bring the stories of the’ Blustery Day’ and ‘Pooh Sticks’ to life using stop motion animation to create an animated film. £5 (Includes a DVD of your work) Suitable for ages 5+ (Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult) Please book as places are limited.

Juggling Jake's Circus Workshop 17th February. 11 am Royal Victoria Country Park

Go along and 'Have a Go'.

Fun for the whole family. Just pop in to the Empire Room/ tearoom anytime between 11am - 3pm. Supported by 'Hog the Limelight'. Indoors - Cost: Free.

Normal parking charges apply.

Bird Box Bonanza 18th February, 10 am – 3 pm Lepe Country Park, Exbury, Southampton SO45 1AD

Build a bird box or rustic feeder for your garden. If the weather is bad the event will be held indoors. Bird box £6.50, Bird feeders £2.00, no need to book

Jurassic Fantastic Family Workshops in Gosport’s Geology Gallery 18th Feb, 10.30 am - 12.30 pm or 1.30 to 3.30 pm Gosport Discovery Centre

Discover fabulous fossils and riveting rocks from the Jurassic and other eras. Lots to do and make, and a story telling activity once an hour with the beautiful interactive geology mat. Suitable for age 5+. £2, accompanying adults & younger children free.

Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 17

Fairytale Pantomime Story Time Special 22nd Feb. 11 am - 12 pm

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT

“It’s behind you! Oh no it isn’t” Listen to a fairy-tale story and then make your own stage and character to put on your own panto. Suitable for under 10s accompanied by an adult. Free, No need to book, but places will be limited

Staunton Country Park

Beginners Crochet course 25th Feb, 4th & 11th March Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

There's a Monster in My Piano 19th February. 2 pm Royal Victoria Country Park

Adults and children alike will be delighted by this offbeat, jazzy tale with puppets, clowning, animation and a very highly strung monster indeed! In the Chapel. Suitable for over 4 yr olds. Please book in advance.

Supported by 'Hog the Limelight' £5pp. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Normal parking charges apply.

Cost: £5pp

Off the page and onto the screen! Jungle Book 21st February

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT

Storytime and activity 10 – 11 am. Listen to a Jungle Book story and make something to take home with you. Suitable for under 10’s accompanied by an adult. FREE! but places may be limited due to space.

Film Showings 11.30 am & 1.30 pm. Watch Disney’s ‘The Jungle Book’ on the big screen. Free, Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Drum Runners – Jungle songs and rhythms drumming workshop 21st Feb, 10 am – 3 pm

Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT

Make a music track in a fun and accessible way. Using Darabuka Drums (Middle Eastern drums), Junk Drums and percussion (like the show STOMP) with music looping/sampling technology and effects to give instant playback results. Suitable for ages 5+ (Children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult) £5, Please book as places are limited.

(Please bring your own packed lunch) 023 9252 3463

Triple Treat for Families at Spinnaker 15th-23rd Feb. 10 am-6 pm The Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, PO1 3TT. 02392 857520

Between Saturday 15 and Sunday 23 February, children can try out the BRAND NEW children’s trail across the view decks, which will challenge families to follow clues throughout the tower and within the views to complete the interactive trail sheets. A special visitor will also be on hand throughout the week, with visitors invited to meet the Spinnaker Tower’s new mascot, who will be introducing himself for the very first time. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s kids prices all round for visitors as adults pay kids prices! T&Cs apply.* Half-Term prices - £6.95. T&Cs apply*

Feed the Birds Week 15th – 23rd Feb, 10:30 am – 3:30 pm Staunton Country Park, Middle Park Way, Havant, PO9 5HB, 023 9245 3405

Join Staunton Country Park to celebrate Feed the Birds Week. Take part in bird themed activities, make feeders and get tips on how to look after their feathered friends. All children must be supervised by an adult.

Normal admission applies. *small charge applies for some crafts and activities

Creative activities and countryside skills 17th – 21st February

Weald & Downland Open Air Museum, Singleton, PO18 0EU

Put on your winter clothes and warm up with a week of creative activities and countryside skills – outdoor trails, arts, crafts and ideas to inspire all the family.

Under cover if wet.

18 | January/February 2014 | Families Solent East

Session 1, here you will learn (or refresh) your casting on skills and the classic stitches. Session 2, continuing stitches, changing colours and granny squares (you could go onto make your own blanket from this and help at our charity crochet night!). Session 3, learning to make different shapes and complete a flower brooch.

Includes all materials £50. Email info@makesouthsea.com

5 week Makaton Course Signing with your Baby 25th February – 25th March. 10 – 11 am Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport. PO12 1BT

Help your baby to communicate.

Learn 50+ signs with your baby through singing and play.

Suitable for parents/carers with babies aged 6 months-2 years.

5 week course, cost £10, please book. 023 9252 3463

Make a Lined Tote Bag 27th Feb, 6:30 – 9:30pm

Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

Join local textile artist Georgina Giles for an intermediate sewing machine workshop. Make a gorgeous bag using beautiful fabrics and incorporating different techniques including button holes. Great step up from the beginner workshops.

All materials included £35 Email info@makesouthsea.com

Level 1 Dressmaking 3rd,10th & 17th March, 7-9pm

Make, 4 Albert road, PO5 2SH

Using their gorgeous fabrics: learn how to follow commercial patterns and the technical terms involved to make your own simple skirt. 3 Sessions, of two hours each. All refreshments and materials included £65. Basic sewing machine knowledge required Email info@ makesouthsea.com

Bananas in Pyjamas, 9th March, 1 pm

Kings Theatre Main Auditorium, Albert Road, Southsea Join B1, B2, Amy, Lulu and Morgan in this brand new, all singing, all dancing show.

With plenty of audience participation, and slapstick fun.

Regular events Toy Library - For little people aged 0-5 years

Offering loan of a wide range of toys, a friendly meeting place for parents/carers and information and advice about play. To borrow a toy you must be a member of Portchester Community Association (£5 per year) and pay £1 each time to borrow a toy; which you can keep for a fortnight.

Portchester Library (PO16 9TX) Thursdays 1:30 - 2:30 pm Fareham Library (PO16 7EN) Thursdays 10:30 – 11:00 & 11:30 – 12:30 pm alternate weeks Oak Meadow Children’s Centre (PO15 6NB) - Mondays 9:30 am – 10:15 am Merryfields Children’s Centre (PO14 1JJ) - Thursdays 10:00 11:00 am Keepsake Children’s Centre (PO16 9AD) - Fridays 10:15 11:15 am St. Johns Church (PO14 1DN) (Sovereign Children’s Centre) Fridays 10:15 - 11:15 am Ranvilles Community Centre (PO14 3BN) Service families only- Mondays 10.30 - 11.30 am

Peek a Boo Moves Mondays 10 – 11 am

Emsworth Community Centre.

Creative Dance, movement, song and play for 1- 4 years, £3.50. For more info call Jo on 07947374222

Mummies & Bumps Tuesdays 10:30am – 12:30pm Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

Parents & babies (0-12mths) craft morning, bring your craft, whether it’s knitting, crochet or sewing, and relax knowing you and baby are welcome and you can do a spot of crafting and they will supply the tea/coffee & cake. No entry fee. Email info@ makesouthsea.com

Slice of Make Wednesdays 7 – 9:30pm

Make, 4 Albert Road, PO5 2SH

Open craft night, very sociable group for adults of any age.

Bring your latest project wether

Your questions its knitting, crochet, quilting or patchwork (or others) and meet other likeminded people. Enjoy some tea/ coffee & cake too. £3 Email info@makesouthsea.com

Secret Egypt: Unravelling Truth from Myth ongoing until 23rd Feb Portsmouth City Museum, Museum Road, PO1 2LJ.

Ancient Egypt continues in Portsmouth with this blockbuster exhibition that brings together incredible objects from one of the most important Egyptian collections in the country.

Displays encourage visitors to investigate the truth behind some of the most popular myths about this fascinating

civilisation. Did aliens build the pyramids? Were the Egyptians obsessed with death? What was the mummy’s curse? Secret Egypt is a touring exhibition from the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, Coventry and Birmingham Museums Trust. Admission free.

Storytelling with Nikki Kidd Once a month (18th Jan & 15th Feb, 10:30 am) The Spring Arts & Heritage, 56 East Street, Havant

Hear about a magical world, faraway places and silly stories. In these free sessions the children become involved and join in with the actions. For 4 – 8 years.

Children must be accompanied.

Your Questions

Answered

Amanda Butterworth, psychotherapist and founder of Inspired Living, answers your parenting questions.

Q: We are moving to a new town with our children of 5 and 7. The 5 year old is not too worried about it,

but the 7 year old is becoming very anxious about the new school, having to meet new people and getting to grips with a new environment. He is also really unhappy about leaving his old friends, some of whom he has known since he was born. I’m not quite sure how to go about helping him to settle in when we get there.

A:

Moving is one of the most stressful events in a life, and it’s not less important just because we’re younger. In fact children are probably more nervous about it because they have no idea what it represents and their security can feel as though it is being taken away from them.

It is important to get both children to talk about what the move means to them and how they feel about leaving their friends behind and having to go to a new school when they get there. Do not minimise anything that they say because if they bring it up it’s important to them even though to a grownup it might appear a really small problem.

SEE! MAKE! DO! Every second Saturday of the month. 11 am – 12 pm Aspex Gallery Gunwharf Quays

Join the Participation Team and artist Rochelle Lucey for SEE! MAKE! DO!, the new family art sessions. Art and creative activities running between 11 am and Midday for all age ranges for just £6 per child.

Call 023 9277 8080, email info@ aspex.org.uk or book online.

Participants are advised to wear old clothes or bring an overall and children must be accompanied by an adult!

For more events and listings visit

www.familiessolenteast.co.uk

Families Solent East & Families Solent West magazines have an opportunity for an experienced sales person to work within our small team. The position is part-time and flexible, with the option of working from home.

To find out more and apply, please contact assistant@familiessolentwest.co.uk

www.familiessolenteast.co.uk www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Q: My husband is constantly shouting at the children and he’s

bad tempered with me. He’s no sooner through the door after a day out working than he’s at it with everyone. I’m with them all day and I’m not screaming at them the way he does. I’d appreciate some recognition for keeping my cool and some well-earned rest and cooperation from him.

A:

Sounds as though both of you are feeling fairly stressed by your very full days. I know it probably feels as though he might be getting the easy end of things by leaving to go to work, but in a man’s world he feels just as burdened as you do because he is going out “hunting” for all of you and that is his main preoccupation.

You need a break at the end of the day and so does he but we go about it in different ways. Men need time to veg out and empty their minds, whereas women need to feel appreciated and cared for (which is what you have been doing all day for your children) which recharges their batteries so they can carry on with their multitude of tasks.

Organise with some of their friends that you should exchange letters and pictures, especially during the settling in period so that they don’t feel abandoned by all their old ties. For those of you who can, get Skype up on the computer and have them chat to their old friends.

Perhaps you could first talk with each other about what you would each like to have at the beginning of the evening and put a system into place which gives you both what you need.

For instance, maybe he could agree to give you a huge hug each evening and tell you how great you are and give five minutes of hugs and attention to the kids first before heading off to relax. Set a time limit for the chilling period and when he’s ready he can come back refreshed and able to help out with some of the household activities. You should find that this will give everyone what they need and will set the stage for a calmer, happier evening.

Also remind them that moving is a great way to meet yet more people and make some new friends. Don’t worry if it takes them a few days before their classmates names start cropping up, let it come naturally and then suggest having a couple of over so they can get to know each other better.

If you would like your questions answered for free (in full confidence), then please write to Amanda at Amanda@familiesmagazine.co.uk Families Solent East | January/February 2014 | 19

childcare for two-year-olds

Ever considered fostering… but thought you wouldn’t qualify?

If your child is two years old and you receive certain benefits, or have a household income of less than about £16,000, up to 15 hours of free childcare could be yours.

Call now to find out how Hampshire Foster Care can support you to foster

www.asksherlock.info

023 9268 8830 www.portsmouth.gov.uk

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