Families Thames Valley East July-August 2015 Issue 79

Thames Valley East July/August 2015 - Issue 79

Try before you buy!

01628 660 893

www.justoutdoortoys.co.uk

BIGGEST Display in the Thames Valley (just 5 mins from M4 J7) Abbey Rose Nursery, Nashdom Lane, Burnham SL1 8NJ

RECRUITING NOW

Summer Fun Special

Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle,

please call Diana Page

01235 533362 07747 086518

...endless ideas for families of young children.

Packed with interesting features and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham

Windsor Montessori School Established in1980 The 1st Montessori School in Berkshire AMI Registered Outstanding Ofsted Report

“Where children learn how to learn”

• Infant Programme: 6 - 18 months • Pre –Primary: 3 - 5 years

• Toddler Programme: 18 months - 3 years • Primary class: 5 - 9 years

Our mission is to foster a love of learning. We support children to be the principles of Montessori philosophy.

Staffed by highly qualified and experienced AMI teachers, our school is located swimming classes.

We also have an infant, toddler and parent session, as well as offering some and to support the child’s development in the home.

Sessions we offer for preschool are: • Standard day: 9.15 to 3.30pm • Extended hours: 8.30am to 4.30pm • Morning session: 9.15am to 12.45pm (lunch club to 1.30pm) •

pre-primary children from 3 years to 5 years)

Romney Lock Road, Home Park, Windsor SL4 6HX Telephone: School: 01753 868399 Office: 01344 844592 Email: For Infant, toddler and pre-primary class: menik@windsor-montessori.com For Primary class: ann@windsormontesssorischool.co.uk

www.windsormontessorischool.co.uk

Come and see what makes our nurseries special!

Bourne End 01628 521522 Marlow 01628 487772

Beaconsfield 01494 677116 Old Windsor 01753 313030

New longer opening hours (7.30 till 6) from January 15

www.poppiesdaynursery.com

3 The best place for children 0 to 5 years-old 3 We operate 38 / 48 weeks a year from 8am to 6pm 3 We offer Afterschool Fun Club from 3pm to 6pm (we pick up the children in our super-school van) 3 Stimulating indoor and outdoor environment 3 Highly qualified and experienced Montessori Teachers We also offer: v Fun with French and Speedy Spanish language v Jo Jingles music Club v Number Fit: a multisensory maths group v Mouse Wizards: Use the computer as a learning tool v Multisports: Developing fine and gross motor skills School Lane, Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, Berks. SL6 3QY.

Ofsted Reg. No.: 108416 E-Mail: montessorischool@aol.com Tel/Fax: 01628 828258

in this

issue

Summer has finally arrived and we have a bumper issue, packed with great ideas for things to do with the kids during the holidays. There are some fab competitions on page 20, plus advice on how to get some much needed ‘me time’ on page 19 and a feature on the latest Yoga trend on page 18. A special thanks to Pauline Beal Photography for our wonderful cover shot (www.paulinebealphotography.co.uk). Whatever you do have a great time with the family and we’ll be back in September for our Back to School special.

3 News & Information

7 Education News

8 Start School with a Smile

9 Camoflauged Learning this Summer

Break a reading World Record this summer

10 Clubs & Classes News

11 Summer Camps & Classes (part 2)

12 20 Sensational things to do this summer

16 I want to ride my bicycle 17 Nature’s Classroom

18 Time for you

- Hot Yoga Special - Make the most of summer!

20 Competitions 22 What’s On

26 Dad’s in Charge

27 Make a Bird Puppet 28 Ed’s Reading Room

29 When baby makes three…

30 Mums Who Mean Business

31 Classifieds

web: FamiliesTVEast.co.uk tel: 01628 627586 fax: 08717 146 305 (calls cost 10p/min) e-mail: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editor: Claire Winter circulation: 19,500 next issue: September/October 2015 due out: September 3, featuring: Back to School and Clubs & Classes copy/advertising deadline:

July 1

Enjoy the theatre for less If you fancy a trip to London to take in a show, don’t miss Kids Week. Over 40 shows will be offering free kids tickets during August, when bought in conjunction with an adult’s ticket.

There will be free activities and workshops available, including the chance to go backstage to meet the cast of The Mousetrap, learn some of Wicked’s secrets, join a Billy Elliot The Musical or Jersey Boys dance class and discover the art of improvisation from The Play That Goes Wrong.

Under-5s are invited to meet The Gruffalo and enjoy fun activities with Aliens Love Underpants.

Tickets will be available to purchase online from 16 June via the website www.kidsweek.co.uk or phone 0844 248 5151.

R

Cover Photo: www.paulinebealphotography.co.uk

twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE

Enrolling Now! Call your local school for details

Ascot: Bracknell: Bracknell Warfield: Henley, High Wycombe & Marlow: Maidenhead: Windsor:

Looking for a way to keep the kids busy and make sure they don’t fall too far behind with their reading this summer? Head to your local library and sign up to the annual Summer Reading Challenge.

It’s aimed at primary-school children who are encouraged to read six or more library books of their choice during the holidays. There are collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal for every child who completes the Challenge. There’s also a mini-Challenge for pre-schoolers, which is good if you‘re trying to get any September school starters into good habits.

This year the Challenge has teamed up with Guinness World Records for a Record Breaker theme – perfect for kids who love finding out lots of weird and wonderful facts. To add to the fun, everyone is being asked to make a pledge to help set a new Guinness World Records™ title for the Most Pledges Received for a Reading Campaign. Public libraries are collecting pledges across the UK between Friday 10 and Monday 13 July – check with your local library to find out when you can submit your pledge. The official launch date of the challenge is Saturday 11 July, find out more at recordbreakers.org.uk or facebook.com/SummerReadingChallengeUK

01344 206466 01342 833380 0845 055 6382 01494 533 203 0118 959 1336 0845 293 7207

Holiday workshops booking now!

Age 4-18 Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

www.stagecoach.co.uk

JULY/AUGUST 2015

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

3

News & Info Bigger, Bolder, Hattier! Wear a Hat Day is a great success

Enchanted School of Dance “Let’s Put on a Show 2015!”

Monday 27th-Friday 31st July 2015 10am-3pm daily for ages 5-12 years (Wrap around care available 9.00-5.00pm) £110 for the week

Enchanted Early Years Workshop

Monday 10th-Friday 14th, August 2015 9.30am-2pm daily for ages 3-6 years Themed days including Prince and Princess, Superheroes, The Circus, The Seaside, Animals and more…

Cost £30 per day £120 for the week (limited places) Held at Herries School Cookham Dean

enchanteddance@hotmail.co.uk 07702 268729 www.enchantedschoolofdance.com

This year’s Wear A Hat Day 2015 in aid of Brain Tumour Research was the biggest and hattiest yet.

A spokesman for the charity says, “We are greatly indebted to the hundreds of schools and families from up and down the land who have taken part in our flagship fundraising campaign. For many of you, Brain Tumour Research is a cause that could not be closer to your hearts as you and those around you have been touched by this devastating disease.Your commitment to help us is much appreciated.

FENCING IN EARLY YEARS START FENCING NOW

with Gemesi Fencing and Salle Eton in

Windsor and Slough from the age of 4!

For further information call or visit the website.

Tel: 07583630283

www.gemesifencing.com

Ballet Summer School 2015 Burnham Park Hall Flower Fairies Mon 17 - Fri 21 August 2015 Burnham Park Hall, Windsor Lane, Burnham, SL1 7HR Suitable for age 2 and up. Perform your show for family and friends at the end of the week!”

Places Limited. Book yours now!

Tel: 07828 857061 or email: su ummerschool@twinkletotsdance.com summerschool@twinkletotsdance.com

“We salute the efforts which have taken place in classrooms where young people, teachers, assistants, admin staff and parents have helped their pupils to bake cakes, make and find hats and in so doing discover they can have fun whilst supporting an important cause.”

They would love to have your company again next year, so don’t forget to register at wearahatday.org.

R

Advertise for as little as £60 plus VAT.

Call: 01628 627586

Kids included in Henley open water swimming event The Henley Mile is an open-water swimming event held on a beautiful stretch of the River Thames on July 12.

This family friendly event has a number of events from elite swimmers racing to win, to the more leisurely Sporting category, where swimmers want to enjoy the river, and achieve the personal challenge of completing the distance, often whilst raising money for charity.

The event is a rare opportunity for all the family to swim in a safe, monitored environment in the Thames.

The course is closed-off from river traffic, and there are safety experts on the water.

Adults and children are able to swim together if they wish - parents can be in the water with their child helping them along the course. Alternatively, the entire course is accessible so adults can walk the course and cheer their friends and family from the bank.

Events are for adults and children aged 8+, there are three distances to chose from - the mile, half mile and 200m.

This year, the Open Water Swimming Show will also be at the Henley Mile, so there is plenty to do when not in the river. There are guest speakers and coaches to be heard, elite swimmers to be watched, the latest swimming equipment to be tried and an endless pool to be conquered.

Further information can be found at henleyswim.com/henley-mile

The Windsor Club Day Nursery has moved!

Rebranded to “The Riverside Day Nursery”, we are now based at the Windsor Leisure Centre.

To find out more about our excellent new childcare facility and meet our team:

Call: 01753 855543 Email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk Visit: www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk

4

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Game, set and match If you and the kids are inspired by Wimbledon, get outdoors and try tennis for free at this summer’s last Great British Tennis Weekend on 1st & 2nd August.

Free events for the whole family will be taking place across the country, offering players the chance to experience mini tennis, cardio tennis, coaching and relaxed free play. Rackets and balls will be provided and absolutely anyone can get involved. Whether you’ve never picked up a racket before or are a seasoned regular – all ability levels are welcome.

To find your local events go to clubspark.lta.org.uk/OpenDays/

News & Info

Autism charity holds annual summer fair in Maidenhead Stand Out For Autism will be holding their Summer Family Festival on Saturday August 15 at SportsAble, Maidenhead, from 2pm to 6pm.

The event is free and there will be a sensory room, bouncy castle, sensory art and crafts, makaton sign and sing area, live entertainment, Magic Mark, stalls and food and drink.

SOFA are also in the process of setting up football training, dance sessions, karate classes, a cinema club, art and craft days at TVAP and a parent social group for families and children living with autism. To find out more and keep updated on all of the above visit www.standoutforautism.com, follow them on Facebook or contact Holly on 07411 260153.

Charity Family Fun Day in Marlow The Crowne Plaza Marlow is hosting a charity Fun Day in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support on July 26 from 12pm. It will be a fun filled day for all the family, with live music, BBQs, bouncy castles, face painting and games on the lawn, with Dave the Disco to keep the children entertained.

The hotel is very child-friendly, set in 5 acres of land, with the lawns offering the perfect setting for family fun days and a variety of other games. If the weather isn’t suitable for outdoor play, the indoor soft play area and Wii room ensure that the children are occupied at all times.

Keep an eye out for Spooky Hallowe'en Discos and other fun filled events for your kids throughout the year.

To find out more ring 01628 496800 or go to cpmarlow.co.uk

School Uniform, Sportswear Custom Clothing Solutions & Workwear

• School Uniforms for most schools in Maidenhead, Windsor, Slough & Burnham area • Complete Design, Embroidery, Screen printing & alteration services • Stockists of all official scouting and girlguiding organisations & dancewear • School Shoes - black & brown - Startrite and Asics

01628 639725 • sales@goyals.co.uk www.goyalmaidenhead.co.uk 28 Bridge Street, Maidenhead Berkshire, SL6 8BJ

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

5

News & Info Thousands back junk food advertising ban Over 30,000 people have signed a petition by the British Heart Foundation to ban junk food adverts before the 9pm watershed, as new statistics show that the majority of UK parents believe stopping children being exposed to junk food adverts will help prevent obesity.

Around 30% of children in the UK are overweight or obese, increasing their risk of being overweight as an adult and developing coronary heart disease in later life. Yet loopholes in the UK regulatory system mean that junk food adverts which are banned during children’s programming can still be shown during family programming, such as X-Factor, when children’s TV viewing peaks.

‘By protecting young people against the sophisticated marketing techniques of junk food advertisers we can help tackle the obesity crisis which threatens the heart health of future generations,’ said Mike Hobday, Director of Policy at the British Heart Foundation. ‘We urge the UK Government to heed the public’s clear call and take immediate action.’

6

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Compulsory first aid for nursery staff New nursery and pre-school staff will be required to undertake paediatric first aid for the first time, thanks to new government proposals. The new proposals will mean that newly qualified staff with a childcare Level 2 and 3 qualification must have an emergency paediatric first aid or full paediatric first certificate – a lifesaving change which will add approximately 15,000 additional trained early years professionals to our nurseries and pre-schools every year. There will also be a new deal in place to help early years providers to buy life-saving defibrillator machines at a reduced price. The plans have received the support of parents Joanne and Dan Thompson, who have been campaigning for the change following the tragic death of their daughter Millie at nursery in October 2012. Their important campaign culminated in an e-petition signed by over 103,000 people. To find out more go to milliestrust.com

JULY/AUGUST 2015

Supporting Breastfeeding in the workplace Breastfeeding in public is still a hot topic.

This year World Breastfeeding Week is all about supporting working mothers and breastfeeding. They hope to gain support from all sectors to enable women everywhere to work and breastfeed and to encourage all employers to support their staff if they want to continue breastfeeding.

They also want to inform people about the latest in maternity protection entitlements.

Find out more at worldbreastfeedingweek.org

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Education News Free Quality Montessori Education – offered by one of the areas most established schools.

Montessori is the largest and most innovative education movement in the world, with over 23,000 schools across the globe. Even the founders of Google credit their Montessori education as being the reason for their success. From September, Meadowbrook Montessori School in Warfield will be offering free Government funded sessions (1pm - 4pm) to eligible 3 and 4 year olds so that they too can benefit from this forward thinking approach.

For over 25 years, Meadowbrook has been at the forefront of child-centred education. Through its pure Montessori practice in the early years to its fusion of both progressive Montessori and mainstream practice at the primary level, children between 15 months and 11 years are fully prepared for the next stage of their education.

These new afternoons will be facilitated by fully qualified Montessori teachers. They will include work and play within a wellprepared and purpose designed Montessori classroom and extensive outdoor environment. To find out more call 01344 890869. www.meadowbrookmontessori.org

LEARN TO TOUCH-TYPE WITH YVONNE THOMAS Yvonne’s Maidenhead-based courses, in touch-typing and structured spelling, can help many students (including those with dyslexia) to improve in confidence, self-belief and focus.

Classes run Monday-Thursday after school (£18 per hour), as well as holiday courses in July and August (£185 for 10 hours)

www.dttts.co.uk • Tel: 07929 528642

Keep learning alive this Summer with Explore special offer

Avoid the summer learning slide and save £50 with Explore Learning maths and English tuition this July. The school holidays are almost here, and we’re sure learning will be the last thing on a child’s mind. However, research has revealed that two thirds of children fall behind in their studies over the holidays* meaning that when they finally go back to school, many children are lacking in confidence and unable to recall things they learnt in the previous school year.

July is the most popular time of the year for families to join Explore Learning, as parents across the country look for an engaging way to keep their children’s brains active over the long summer break. Also, families joining in July will save £50 registration fee at participating centres**, so now is a great time to join if you haven’t already!

Explore Learning has maths and English tuition centres across the UK - try us for free to find out how your family can benefit! To book your trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call 01628 509 570 for Maidenhead and 01753 362 400 for your local centres. *Research; COOPER, H., NYE, B., CHARLTON, K. and GREATHOUSE, S. (1996). ‘The effects of summer scores: a narrative and meta-analytic review’, Review of Educational Research, 66, 227–68. **Offer terms and conditions: 1. Only applicable when joining at the full membership rate when you join by 31/07/2015. 2.The offer may be used for more than one child from the same family. 3.The offer entitles new members to join without paying the registration fee. 4.

Your induction session must be held by the 15/08/2015 5. Only available at participating centres. Centres not participating: Barking, Bradford, Colchester, Hayes, Orpington, Sale, Westfield.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

7

Education

Start School with a Smile

Starting school is an exciting time for young children and parents, but it is also a huge change and a big adjustment. With a little preparation and encouragement, most children will settle in easily.

New Head Teacher at Highfield Prep School in Maidenhead, Joanna Leach, gives her tips for how you can prepare your child to start school this September.

I

t is important that you chat with your child about starting school. What do they think it will be like? Is there anything they’re unsure or worried about? A great way to relieve these worries is to find photos of you and other family members at school, and chat about happy memories from your own school days. If possible, visit the school with your child before they start.

Read a story about starting school to them during the day - use it as a way to ask them questions about what they think school will be like. If your child seems anxious, try focusing on the things they’ll like best - the sandpit, playhouse or new friends.

Practice, Practice, Practice: Practice the

8

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

school morning routine, getting dressed and eating breakfast in time to leave, as well as the school run, so that you’re both prepared for the school morning journey.

Following instructions: School-age children need to be able to follow their teacher's instructions - you can try practicing with games such as Simple Simon. Next add two or three instructions together: "hang up your coat, put your bag away and come and sit down please".

Getting dressed: Let your child practice putting on their uniform, and taking it off (in preparation for PE lessons). Steer clear of fiddly fastenings and teach them the tricks of getting dressed - putting labels at the back and holding cuffs to stop sleeves riding up.

Look after number one (and number twos!): Going to the toilet independently is perhaps the most important practical skill. Get your child confident about getting to the toilet in time, wiping properly, flushing and washing their hands.

Lunchtimes: Free school meals are now available to children from Reception to Year 2.

Children eating school dinners need to be able to use a knife and fork, and if taking a lunchbox they should be able to open it and any other containers.

Recognising their name: Your child will not be expected to be able to write, but it's helpful if they can recognise their name on a coat peg or label. Try putting their name on the fridge or playing 'treasure hunt' games spotting their name around the garden or house.

Confident communicators: Young children do best at school when they're confident

JULY/AUGUST 2015

communicators who can say what they think, express how they feel, and ask for help when they need it. So chat about anything and everything and get them used to talking to 'safe' adults too, e.g. greeting friends' parents.

Learning to share: Sharing and negotiating are vital skills for forming friendships. Simple games teach them about taking turns, following rules and losing graciously; visits to the playground or soft play enable the development of social skills.

What’s most important is that you and your child have fun together in those pre-school months and years – sharing stories, singing songs, playing games and talking about anything and everything.

We have a saying here at Highfield that adults who help children to play are adults who help children to learn.

Highfield Preparatory School, offers a great start to a life of learning. In the Nursery (3 and 4 year olds) and Reception classes (5 year olds) right through to Year 6 (11 year olds) the girls love learning and are inspired to achieve their full potential. Every girl has the opportunity to shine and be proud, to learn who they are, and have the confidence to ‘have a go’ with the belief that they can succeed.

Find out more at www.highfieldprep.org

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Camouflaged Learning this Summer

Education

By Liz Walker

Research shows that many children make steady progress in their reading throughout the school year and then go backwards during the long summer holidays. The consequences are cumulative and long lasting, often having a powerful influence on reading ability throughout school life and beyond.

Whilst summer holidays should be remembered for beaches, camping and chilling out, it is important to keep children reading.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Here are a few fun favourites of Reading Chest to keep your children reading this summer – 1. Fishing for Sounds - Using a permanent marker, write letter sounds onto cut out plastic fish or ducks and let them swim in your paddling pool. Scoop them out with a net and use the sounds to play games e.g. make words beginning with the sound / ending with the sound / invent silly rhymes etc.

2. Shaving Foam - Get messy outside with shaving foam on a table. Have fun practising writing letter sounds with your finger in the foam. If you want to get really messy – add a little paint!

3. Get into Top Trumps - Top Trumps is becoming more and more popular in schools as it delivers a range of educational benefits through ‘camouflaged learning’. As well as being great fun, it improves literacy, numeracy and subject knowledge. The card games are perfect for taking away on holiday. www.toptrumps.com

JULY/AUGUST 2015

4. Get children cooking - Everything involved in cooking is fantastic for children’s learning, from reading the recipe and weighing ingredients, to sharing cakes with friends. This can be made into a more social event with friends by recreating programmes such as ‘Come Dine with Me’ or ‘MasterChef’ with friends, where children have to read and write their own menus too.

5. Listen to audio books. Audio books are a brilliant way to keep children’s interest in stories alive. Long car journeys are a great place for a captive audience! These can either be bought as CDs or downloaded from websites such as www.audible.co.uk.

6. Join readingchest.co.uk to receive regular deliveries of books at your child’s chosen reading level delivered to your door.

Members also get reward charts, certificates and write book reviews online.

Reading Chest is offering Families readers £5 off their first month’s membership with the promotional code FAMILIES15. www.readingchest.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

9

Clubs & Classes News • Kids Art Clubs • Pottery Painting • Adult Art Classes & Workshops • Corporate Meetings & Events • Parties

New yoga class for children in Knowl Hill Before School, After School & Holiday clubs

Phone 0844 561 1606 Arts & crafts, sports, dance, drama, cinema, yoga, day trips…optional lunch & tea Holiday, Breakfast & After School clubs Holiday clubs > Highfield School, Maidenhead 3 – 14yrs After school clubs > Courthouse 3 – 11yrs > Oldfield 3 – 11 yrs > Furze Platt Schools 3 – 14 yrs Breakfast club > Pinkneys Green Community Centre, Maidenhead 3 – 11yrs

Summer club dates 13th July – 28th August 2015

Quality childcare from just £3.50 per hour E: info@wiseowlsclub.co.uk W: www.wiseowlsclub.co.uk

Yoga4kids123 is offering yoga classes with mindfulness for children and teens at the Castle Royal gym, Bath Road, Know Hill from September.

The class teaches children how to find inner calm and peace, without the distraction of the outside world. The techniques will help them cope with external pressures, such as exam and homework stress. The moves are subtle and require concentration and focus in order to achieve results. The children will learn to work for themselves and be rewarded by their efforts and achievements.Yoga can help improve flexibility, sleep at night, digestion, respect, balance and mood.

Yoga4kids123 also supports the charity Yoga4autism and teaches classes for children with autism and cognitive disabilities. The sessions can help improve motor skills, muscle tone, flexibility, balance and self awareness.

To find out more email Katia on kat@yoga4kids123.co.uk

Learn to touch-type in Maidenhead Tutor and dyslexia specialist,Yvonne Thomas (Cert Ed. SpLd Tutor – Literacy/Numeracy (ADD Coach)), teaches small group classes in touch typing and structured spelling from her home in Maidenhead.

Touch-typing can help to minimise some of the difficulties students have with learning style differences.

Students will learn to touch-type without looking at the keyboard, using all their fingers correctly and with hands covered.

Her Weekly classes are held during term-time, Monday Thursday after-school (maximum of 6 students in each class), £18.00 per hour.

Holiday courses for 2015: 27-31 July 2015, 8.30-10.30am, 10.45- 12.45pm, 1.15-3.15pm; 17-21 August 2015, 8.3010.30am, 10.45- 12.45pm, 1.15-3.15pm. Cost: £185.00 for 10 hours tuition. Call 07929528642 to find out more. www.dttts.co.uk

En Garde - give fencing a go!

Gemensi Fencing club is offering fencing lessons for children from the age 4+ at the Windsor Baptist Church on Victoria Street in August, every Friday from 10.00-11.00am and 11.00-12.00am and during term-time every Friday from 4.00-5.00pm and 5.00-6.00pm.

To find out more call 075 8363 0283 or email info@gemesifencing.com.

10

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Summer Fun

Wondering what to do with the kids this summer? If you need childcare or just want to keep the kids active and engaged, there is something for everyone, tennis, drama, swimming, art and much more. Go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/SummerCamps2015 for our comprehensive guide. Here are some new additions:

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Summer Camps:

Monday 20th July Friday 28th August 8:00am - 6:30pm

s: Venue r,

dso Old Win & Thorpe ury b s y ra W

Ofsted 'OUTSTANDING' Provider

Tel: 07854 078 728

email: hc_thegapclub@yahoo.co.uk

Help your child build confidence in the water this summer.

Intensive Swimming Crash Courses this summer at Court Garden Leisure Complex.

At Court Garden Leisure Complex Marlow we provide a warm, friendly atmosphere in which they learn a skill to last a lifetime.

Our popular intensive sessions help develop confidence and technique through structured fun learning, building a solid foundation for future water based activities.

All classes have a maximum of 4 pupils per class and the teacher in the water.

Contact our swim co-ordinator today to book a space!

COURT GARDEN LEISURE COMPLEX Pound Lane, Marlow, Bucks SL7 2AE

01628 405 200

paularussell@pfpleisure.org

PP100326

Artspiration is holding ART AND CRAFT CAMPS at St Peter’s Church in Maidenhead from July 27-30 & August 10-13, 9am to 3pm, Recommended for ages 7yrs+. Try your hands at mosaics, Batik t-shirts, plaster models, Plaster casts. Gain insight on works of famous artists, explore pencil shading, water colours, soft pastels and acrylics on Canvas. Cost £160. 10% discount if your refer a friend! Dates for new courses to be released soon, please Call 01628 634418 or email info@artspiration.co.uk. For more details please visit www.artspiration.co.uk/#!summer/c8st.

To celebrate their 5th anniversary Blossom Ballet is holding FREE SUMMER CLASSES for children aged 18 months to 10 years this August in their new “Manhattan style” dance studio in Windsor. Please email Miss Lucy at lucy@blossomballet.com or call 07813084283 for more details and to book a place. www.blossomballet.com Court Garden Leisure Centre in Marlow is holding intensive SWIMMING CRASH COURSES this Summer. Maximum of four in class with a teacher in the water. Contact their swim co-ordinator to book a place. Email paularussell@pfpleisure.org or call 01628 405 200.

Enchanted School of Dance is holding SUMMER WORKSHOPS this summer at Herries School, Cookham Dean, Lets Put on a Show 2015, from 27 July to 31 July, 10am-3pm, £110 for the week, (wrap round care available 9-5pm); Enchanted Early Years Workshops from August 10 to 14, 9.30-2pm daily. £30 per day or £120 for the week. To find out more email enchanteddance@hotmail.co.uk or call 07702 268729. www.enchantedschoolofdance.com Gemesi Fencing Club is running FENCING SESSIONS for children aged 4+ at the Windsor Baptist Church,Victoria Street, Windsor every Friday from August 7 from 10 to 11am and 11am to 12pm. Cost £6.50 per child or £60 if you buy 10 sessions. Please call 07583630283 or email info@gemesifencing.com.

The Gap Club is holding SUMMER HOLIDAY CAMPS in Old Windsor, Wraysbury & Thorpe. They provide 'outstanding' Ofsted registered childcare services and their Holiday Clubs/Camps provide a wide range of exciting activities and workshops for children aged 3 - 14yrs. They ensure all activities are tailored to your child's individual needs and can include Arts & Crafts, Cooking and Sports based workshops. For information please contact 0785 407 8728 or email hc_thegapclub@yahoo.co.uk.

Liquid Leisure Wakeboard and Waterski Park in Datchet has DAILY FUN for the whole family this Summer. With an Aqua Park, Beach and Kids Club. Open 7 days a week from 12-8pm. All day for £15, 1-hour £5. Aqua Park age limit 6-15 years. Under-6 years must be accompanied by a paying adult. Life jackets must be worn at all times. To find out more go to www.liquidlesiure.com or call 01753 542 500.

Redroofs School for the Performing Arts is running ONSTAGE HOLIDAY WEEKS at their school in Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, SL6 3QY, for children aged 6-14. Monday 27 July - Friday 31 July A HARD KNOCK WEEK OF MUSICAL THEATRE, Monday 3 August - Friday 7

QUALITY ASSURED HOLIDAY CHILDCARE

Summer Camps & Classes (Part 2)

August FROZEN WEEK, Monday 10 August - Friday 14 August WEST END WEEK, Monday 17 August- Friday 21 August REVOLTING CHILDREN WEEK, Monday 24 August - Friday 28 August WONKA WEEK. The only Musical Theatre course where children can enjoy a refreshing dip in our heated outdoor pool, beautiful gardens and an onstage real theatre experience. £240.00. Call 01628 674092; www.redroofs.co.uk Twinkle Tots Ballet SUMMER SCHOOL is being held from Monday 17 August - Friday 21 August 2015 at Burnham Park Hall, Burnham, Slough. This year’s theme: Flower Fairies. Join Miss Louise for a fun filled week of dancing, suitable for age 2 and upwards. With a daily ballet class, arts and crafts, modern dance for the older group and then help create your own ballet show to perform on the Friday to friends and family! 10-11am for 2-4years, cost £35 for the week; 4 years +, 11am1pm, cost £65 for the week. Call 07828 857061 or email:summerschool@twinkletotsdance.com. Places are limited. Book your place now! www.twinkletotsdance.com Learn to TOUCH-TYPE this summer in Maidenhead with Tutor and dyslexia specialist,Yvonne Thomas (Cert Ed. SpLd Tutor – Literacy/Numeracy (ADD Coach), she teaches small group classes in touch typing and structured spelling from her home in Maidenhead.

Holiday courses for 2015: 27-31 July 8.30-10.30am, 10.45- 12.45pm, 1.15-3.15pm; 17-21 August, 8.30-10.30am, 10.45- 12.45pm, 1.153.15pm. £185.00 for 10 hours tuition. Call 07929528642 or go to www.dttts.co.uk Don’t forget to go to Go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/SummerCamps2015 for the full guide!

Operated by Places for People Leisure Limited in partnership with Wycombe District Council.

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

11

Make this summer a sizzler

20 SENSATIONAL THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER

School’s out for summer and each day can be as much fun as the last. Come rain or shine, there’s so many fun activities to keep the kids entertained and the good news is some of it is free….

Photo: NT David Levenson

1 Go to the theatre – outside!

Introduce your children to a little culture with the National Trust’s outdoor theatre season (www.nationaltrust.org.uk). This year’s highlights include: A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Claydon, 4th July); Dr Longitude’s Marvellous Imaginary Menagerie (Stowe, 24th July); Treasure Island (Waddesdon, 7th Aug); The Tales of Beatrix Potter (Waddesdon, 8th Aug); Marty MacDonald’s Farm for ages 3– 7 (Hughenden, 8th Aug); The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (Cliveden, 27–28th Aug) and The Three Musketeers (Cliveden, 29th Aug). For more theatre, see What’s On (pages 22– 25).

2 Take a dip This time of year provides the perfect opportunity to make swimming fun and get the whole family summer holiday ready. If the sun is shining and we get that longawaited BBQ summer, head down to an open air swimming pool near you – Wycombe Rye Lido (www.fusionlifestyle.com/centres/Wycombe_Rye_Lido/) or Wallingford swimming pool (www.better.org.uk/leisure/riverside-park-

12

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

and-pools).

3 Go Wild Experience Wild Wednesdays at Cliveden. Every week during the summer holidays (29 July -3 September), there are different outdoor activities on each Wednesday. Cost £2 per child (plus normal admission). If your children don’t mind a long walk and you want to see the gardens from a different perspective, you can walk from the Woodland car park taking in lots of wood sculptures and a children’s play trail with a tree swing along the way. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden

4 Find your Superpower This year’s two-day Maidenhead Festival will take place over the weekend of 25th – 26th July. The family-focussed event will have the theme of Heroes and Villains and feature music, a beach, fairground, stalls and side shows, and of course the not-to-be missed fireworks display.

The festival will be centred around Kidwells Park but aims to involve the whole of the town and local community.

Maidenhead Festival is the biggest, regularly organised, free, public event in Maidenhead and has many benefits for our community, including building community spirit and

JULY/AUGUST 2015

Photo: www.paulinebealphotography.co.uk

goodwill. It also helps to strengthen the charities and other organisations, which take part by providing a platform for publicity, fund raising and recruitment.

Up to 8,000 people from Maidenhead enjoyed Maidenhead Festival last year by joining the crowds at the concert and fireworks, browsing the stalls or by taking part themselves.

“It’s your town and your festival,” said chairman Steph James. “The festival is a brilliant event for the whole family.” Find them on Facebook /MaidenheadFestival or on Twitter @MaidenheadFest.

5 Make your garden into a waterpark Set the garden sprinkler, limbo under the hose pipe jet and grab your water pistols for a fab afternoon of water fun in the garden – great when the weather’s warm

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Copyright: The Crown Estate. Photographer: Warwick Sweeney.]

and just as much fun when it’s raining.

6 Head down to your local library One thing you can count on this summer is that there will be rain. When the heavens open, libraries are rainproof and most offer kidfriendly activities in the summer holidays.

There are many fun activities planned for the summer at your local library, such as fantastic Legoland workshops in the Royal Borough, go to www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/libraries_events.htm to find out more.

7 Movie magic There’s nothing more fun than watching a favourite film outside with a picnic blanket and popcorn. Check out these outdoor cinema events: Stardust (29th Aug) at Black Park (www.buckscc.gov.uk/events). Grease (1st Aug) at the Luna Cinema outdoor cinema event at Ascot Racecourse (www.thelunacinema.com). And don’t forget the special family screenings on Saturday and Sunday mornings at most local cinemas, including Cineworld High Wycombe; Odeon Maidenhead and Bracknell; and Empire High Wycombe and Slough. Most of these also have half-price tickets on Mondays or Tuesdays – a perfect way to catch a blockbuster for less.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

8 Smell the roses There is so much to enjoy in the beautiful summer surroundings of The Savill Garden, Windsor Great Park. The award-winning Rose Garden will be in full bloom with swirling patterns of colour and the air heavy with the scent of roses. The spectacular Summer Gardens will take you on a plant journey around the world. Mums and dads can also enjoy A Midsummer Night’s Dream (24 June-19 July) Watch Your Head open air theatre company will take you on an ethereal journey through The Savill Garden. Adults: £35 per person (children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult).Visit www.watchyour-head.co.uk for ticketing details. For children, Puppets in the Park will be performing free every Wednesday in August with family puppet shows on Obelisk Lawn, next to The Savill Garden. For more information visitwww.windsorgreatpark.co.uk or call 01784 435 400.

9 Activity circuits Remember all those craft sets and activity packs, building blocks and construction kits that have remained untouched since the arrival of Minecraft? Station a selection around a table or on the floor and ask the kids to get builidng. Set a timer and every ten to 20 minutes blow a whistle and ask them to move on to the next activity.

10 Experience history firsthand This summer enjoy lots of exciting living history events at Chiltern Open Air Museum.

Find out about life in medieval England, meet the soldiers from the Battle of Agincourt and watch out for vicious Vikings.You can also

JULY/AUGUST 2015

learn about Tudor farming and meet the Victorian villagers and villains (and try not to let them pick your pockets)! During the August bank holiday weekend you can meet King John’s barons, see archery displays and learn all about the Magna Carta.Visit www.coam.org.uk.

11 Get active Summer at Longridge will be a busy one with a myriad of ways to enjoy the River Thames, including the popular Splash Days, 1-day and 2-day courses in kayaking, rowing, fencing and sailing. New for this summer is Lazer Quest

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

13

REDROOFS SCHOOL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS THE BEST SUMMER OF YOUR LIFE SUMMER HOLIDAY WEEKS At

Redroofs, Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, SL6 3QY Perform in a summer full of musicals onstage and enjoy our delightful gardens daily optional swimming in our outdoor heated pool.

Our professional and fully trained staff and directors offer a warm welcome to beginners and experienced performers ages 6-14.

Wrap around care available.

Monday 27th July - Friday 31st July A HARD KNOCK WEEK OF MUSICAL THEATRE, Monday 3rd August - Friday 7th August FROZEN WEEK Monday 10th August - Friday 14th August WEST END WEEK, Monday 17th August - Friday 21st August REVOLTING CHILDREN WEEK Monday 24th August - Friday 28th August WONKA WEEK.

Book online NOW www.redroofs.co.uk/coursesandworkshops Find us on Facebook Email info@redroofs.co.uk • Tel 01628 674092

14

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

– a brilliant birthday party activity and week-long residential programmes of outdoor activities throughout August. All courses and programmes are designed to build character, independence and confidence in our young people. Adults can join in too, with courses for adults and the Family Open Days and Family Camping Weekends give everybody a chance to have a go. To check out how you and your family can enjoy Longridge visit www.longridge.org.uk 12 Go on safari Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire is a wild family day out with plenty to do. See animals up close including elephants, lions and tigers– then encounter seal lions, penguins and many other creatures on the foot safari. There’s plenty of activities on offer including fun pedalos, train rides, picnic and indoor play areas. Remember to wind up your windows when you meet the lions, and especially when you visit the monkey sanctuary, although there’s no guarantee they won’t try to hitch a ride on the roof of your car! Buy an e-ticket in advance on their website (www.woburnsafari.co.uk) for reduced ticket prices: adult £21.99 and child £13.99.

13 Go to the beach Aloha! Norden Farm’s popular beach is back for the whole summer and free to play on!

Discover the brand new Hawaiian Elvis movie theme at the grand opening on Tuesday 28 July. Come in Elvis fancy dress for your chance to win!

Make sandcastles, pose on the surfboard, meet the turtle in the Gallery and enjoy a Café Bar lunch at the beach side tables. Daily weekday craft sessions (£5) and storytelling in the movie star trailer (£2), keep the children entertained, even on rainy days!

Beach open Tuesdays to Sundays 10am – 4pm (Beach Craft: Tuesdays – Fridays 11am, Storytelling: Tuesdays – Fridays 1.15pm and 3pm).

Booking recommended for Beach Craft and Storytelling. Free entry to the Maidenhead Beach and free parking.

They’re just off the M4, A404 and A4. Find out more on their website www.nordenfarm.org or by calling 01628 788997.

14 Ride the rails There are steaming days at Bucks Rail Centre (www.bucksrailcentre.org) every Sunday from 5th July to 23rd August, as well as Wednesdays during the holidays from 29th July. Enjoy unlimited rides on a full-size engine that will be running up and down the track and for a small charge, jump on the miniature railway. There’s free car parking, picnic areas, as well as hot and cold food and drinks on sale, shelter for rainy weather and a gift shop.

Plus, Thomas and Friends are at the railway at the beginning of September (5th and 6th). There’s a chance to meet the Fat Controller, have unlimited rides on a real steam engine and take part in Thomasthemed activities.

15 Discover science There are more than 90 hands-on science and discovery activities to be discovered at The Look Out Discovery Centre, all waiting to be pulled, pushed or prodded! The activities are mostly geared towards primary school and pre-school children. However, there is something for all ages! Can you really leave your shadow on the wall? Play in the toddler supermarket, build an unfinished house, launch the hot air balloon or dam a steam? The Yucky You Show (for ages 3+) runs at weekends and Bracknell Forest holidays until 6th Sept. Outside is a popular adventure play area,

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Photo: www.paulinebealphotography.co.uk

orienteering course, walks and picnic area. It’s open daily form 10am 5pm, just off J3, M3 or J10, M4. Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354400. Go to page 17 for a child goes free voucher*. *with a paying adult 16 Walk on the wild side Learn more about wolves at the UK Wolf Conservation Trust in Beenham, Reading.

During the holidays non-members can visit every Wednesday from 11am to 4pm, cost £5 per child and £8 per adult (ukwct.org.uk).

17 Visit London Instead of the usual tourist destinations take the train and then a bus or tube (often this is the best bit) to check out one of London’s Parks. At Kensington Gardens you can visit the fantastic Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. The area's main attraction is still the vast wooden pirate ship sailing a sea of sand and if you are feeling cultural you could visit the Serpentine gallery to see some modern art. Plus you could also take in the impressive site of the Albert Memorial and the whimsical statue of Peter Pan (www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/kensington-gardens/things-to-see-and-do).

18 Create a cliffhanger Visit your nearest climbing wall and get your children to challenge themselves physically and mentally.

Climbing improves lean muscle tone and encourages teamwork, concentration and problem solving skills. It’s also extremely exhilarating and lots fun. There’s one in Amersham www.theclimbamersham.co.uk and Reading www.readingclimbingcentre.com 19 Dress up to the nines If your kids like dressing up. Why not do a charity shop trawl to get some exciting outfits for a play or show?

They can write the script themselves and then perform it to enthralled neighbors and parents. If your kids are older try and inspire them with some YouTubers that are into vintage clothes or look at some Pinterest boards, so they realise they don’t have to buy all their clothes from the High Street, recycling, upcycling and vintage is also cool!

Check out www.shabbytique.com who holds fairs across Berkshire and www.rubysvintage.co.uk who hold fairs in High Wycombe and across the South-East.

20 Put the kids in charge Ask your children to plan a day out and challenge them to surprise you with somewhere that you’ve never been before. We’ve got lots of ideas at www.familiestveast.co.uk or visit your local library for inspiration.

You may find a hidden gem right on your doorstep, which could be your best summer day out yet, or they may plan a day to the local dump… surprise! At the very least it takes the pressure off you for planning another day’s activities… Make sure to post the photos any new places you find on /familiestve or on @familiestve with #SummerFamiliesFun.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

15

Get Outdoors I want to ride my bicycle

By Natalie Trice

Cycling is a magical childhood right of passage - from their 2nd birthday balance-bike from grandma, to the bright shiny starter cycle with stablisers, until that first BMX.

L

earning to ride a bike is a life skill that gives children confidence and is their first taste of mobile independence.

Scraped elbows, tears and scabby knees are all indicators of a learner on two wheels. All that white-knuckle effort is worth it when you see your child whizzing off, all on their own, for the first time.

There will be some kids who take to cycling like a natural, giving Sir Bradley Wiggins a run for his money, whereas for others it’s a little trickier and takes time.

As a parent you need to offer encouragement and praise, be patient and accept that every child does it in their own way and when they are ready. This was certainly the case for Amanda’s daughter: “She refused to let us help her. She spent over a week going up and down the garden every night after school and at the weekend. Pedal up, push off, fall off. It was painful to watch. But after 20 days she finally got it. She must have clocked up some miles in the process!”

We tell them they are safe, nothing bad will happen and to just keep pedaling, but are we really telling them the truth?

Helen told me, “My dad has been in the cellar, left the trap door open and came to help me with my bike. He pushed me off, I started pedaling, then disappeared down 12 stone steps to the damp, spider-filled depths! My mum still hasn't forgiven him 37 years later.”

Tanith has never forgiven her mum, “Mum took my stabilisers off my bike and off I went happily. I was going downhill at speed

16

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

and only then did she remember there was a ditch at the bottom, so I had to throw myself off. Thanks mum”.

There is no doubt that watching your child cycle unaided offers immense pride and ample photo opportunities but the process can be stressful with little fun involved at all.

My advice is to find a bike that is age and size appropriate, get them a helmet and then let them take the lead, preferably on smooth tarmac, grass is soft to land on but hard to cycle across. Every child is different and will get there in their own time, cycling is meant to be fun shouting “GO, GO, GO!” across the park will only add pressure.

My eldest son showed no interest in bikes until a week before his 8th birthday when he got on his Ridgeback and cycled off across the patio. I was stunned.

You can spend ages showing them how to balance their little bodies, where to put their hands and debate the pros and cons of stablisers but this is meant to be a childhood pleasure, so let them sit on the bike, get the feel for it and make the first move. Don’t lie about holding them if you’re not, don’t shout at them to get on with and don’t compare them to others, none of this will work, it will just make them feel more vulnerable and leave you exhausted.

Cycling isn’t a parenting competition,

JULY/AUGUST 2015

there isn’t a medal for the first kid in the NCT class to ride solo and you certainly don’t want their early biking memories to be remembered through tiger-mother tinted glasses.

Stay close so you can dive in as they topple, be encouraging, don’t flap and make sure to tell them about the brakes before they go anywhere. One of the main reasons children crash is because they don’t know how to stop, so make sure they know how to brake.

Octavia found this out nearly to her peril, “My first cycling efforts were unaided in the garden. There was a short dip, and then I went flat across the garden straight towards to the greenhouse. I missed it by inches and landed in a heap with my bike”.

Of course, once everything is going to plan and the cycling proficiency test is on the cards, little hiccups can occur, as Chloe recollects, “I remember showing my grandma how good I was a riding my new bike when I was six and promptly rode straight into the paddling pool – the whole family was there and they haven’t let me forget it”.

Whatever you do, make it fun, join in and have a great time together, because before you know it you will be fixing L plates to your car and talking theory tests at breakfast.

Natalie is a freelance journalist and blogger (www.justbecauseilove.co.uk) who knows a thing or two about PR and social media too (www.tantaramedia.co.uk).

Based in Buckinghamshire she is mummy to two little boys, wife to one husband and keeper of a cat and dog, all of whom who keep her busy and on her toes.

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Get Outdoors

Nature’s classroom

By Hannah Hunter

As parents we know that children are happy in the outdoors, and once even the most hardened of citydwellers have got used to the damp and mud, they revel in unstructured time spent in the natural world. This applies not only to small children, but older ones too – contact with nature is known to impact positively on teenage anxiety and depression.

O

utdoor play can develop children’s understanding of risk, as well as testing their emotional and physical strength. Learning how high they can climb or how brave they can be, teaches them about themselves as well as how they relate to the environment.

Contact with nature has even been shown to increase creativity and language development.

Children’s activity levels automatically go up when they are outdoors. As childhood obesity has a direct link with inactivity, outdoor learning could be a key to tackling this growing problem.

Despite this, many of today’s children are missing out. According to Stephanie Hilborne OBE, Chief Executive of The Wildlife Trusts: “Children in 2015 are spending half as much time outdoors as they were a generation ago and it can not be unrelated

that one in ten children suffer from depression. Society is starting to realise the risks that this separation from our natural environment poses to our children’s health and happiness.”

So what can you do as a parent to increase your kids’ contact with nature?

Here we explore some of the options: 1. Reduce technology. Limit screen time to one-hour a day 2. Find a club. There are after-school clubs and classes that can support children’s learning outdoors. Go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/clubsandclasses to find them. Tried-and-tested outdoor organizations, like the Scouts and Girl Guides, also offer a range of activities and camps.

3. Plan a family day out. As well as providing accessible venues for school and group outings, the Wildlife Trust run activities across the UK just for families

and children ranging from ‘nature tots’ toddler groups to family pond-dipping days.

Visit their website to find local information wildlifetrusts.org. Go to pages 12 to 15 for some Summer Days out inspiration.

4. Check out local woodland. Go to the Forestry Commission website at www.forestry.gov.uk, to find your nearest woodlands. They have a free app with maps and local information on camping, trails and activities.

5. Commit.You can pledge some ‘wild time’ with your children by signing up to The Wild Network – an organisation dedicated to reconnecting children with nature, at projectwildthing.com. They have a calendar of different events, and lots of fun activity ideas that will get you and your kids outdoors. The film that inspired the organization is available to watch online, it’s an interesting take on how to ‘re-brand’ nature to appeal to the younger generation, who they claim are suffering from ‘nature-deficit disorder’.

For other great ideas for days out go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/whatson or turn to our What’s On guide on pages 22 to 25.

Be Amazed...The

Look Out Discovery Centre

Science and discovery fun over 90 activities.

Bring this advert to get one free child with one full paying adult*.

Valid until 2/9/15 *Terms and conditions apply.

The Yucky You show 19th May - 2nd September 2015

Shows run at weekends and Bracknell school holidays.

Open 10am - 5pm every day The Look Out Discovery Centre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Tel: 01344 354400

www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery Families

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

17

Time For You It’s getting hot in here

Maidenhead’s first dedicated hot yoga studio is opening this summer, Families takes a look at this ancient practice and explores why it is so good for you.

O

riginating in India, the practice of yoga dates back thousands of years. According to Hindu philosophy, regular practice enables us to reach physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing.

Hot Yoga, as its name suggests, is yoga that is practiced in a heated room. This enables you to go deeper into the poses as the heat allows your muscles to lengthen and strengthen more.

Maidenhead’s hot yoga studio, Inspire Hot Yoga, heat their rooms to between 3640 degrees centigrade, with a humidity of 40-60%. “Our infrared system is designed to heat your body by penetrating to a cellular level, it does not just heat the air around you. This promotes more detoxification and fat burning as well as greater flexibility.” So it doesn’t get too clammy in there, the air is circulated to make it clean and fresh.

As well as improving flexibility, hot yoga can boost weight-loss. As you progress more quickly than with other yoga practices, you can build muscle more effectively - the more muscle mass you have, the quicker your metabolism becomes, so you will burn fat at a faster rate. The heat also boosts the calories you burn, with an average 90-minute session burning between 500-1000 calories.

The added heat will speed up detoxification - increased sweating allows your body to flush out toxins. This will leave you feeling totally amazing and very clean afterwards, and can improve skin tone and texture. Getting hotter also boosts your heart rate, meaning that you will get a cardiovascular workout too.

18

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

They are the first in Maidenhead to offer a Forrest Yoga class, taught by Lizzy Nichol.

This modern practice, created by Ana Forrest, is based on the pillars of breath, strength, integrity and spirit.

Lizzy describes the class as: “…a challenging practice that uses longer pose holds and intelligent sequencing to strengthen and heal body and mind. Forrest is famous for

If you’re tempted to try it, Inspire Hot Yoga is offering classes at most times each day, to suit you, with early morning, lunchtime and evening sessions available.

They are running a number of different classes including: Hot 26, an all-abilities intensive Bikram-style class in a hot studio; Power flow, another hot class, intense and fast for more experienced students; Breath, a gentle flowing practice for beginners, in a less hot studio. They will also be offering Pilates/Yoga Fusion class, along with a range of other yoga classes, such as relaxing and meditative Hatha yoga, through to the intense workout of Ashtanga classes.

its core work and loved for its playful inversions. In short, it’s strong, sweaty and totally transformational.”

Studio founder, Claire Stewart, explains: “We are really excited to be launching the first dedicated hot yoga studio in Maidenhead and it is great to be offering a way for people to improve both their mind and body health, which in this hectic world we live in is so important. There are many health benefits attributed to hot yoga, including stress reduction, detoxification, improved posture and flexibility, increased strength and stamina as well as great calorie burning too! Inspire Hot Yoga studio is opening soon, if you would like to give it a try make sure you visit our website www.inspirehotyoga.co.uk to book a class."

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Time for You

Make the most of summer!

Fiona Clarke from Inspired Mums shares her top tips on taking a break and recharging your batteries during the summer holidays.

A

re you gleefully counting down the number of sleeps until the end of term? Does the thought of six whole weeks free from the trials and tribulations of school runs, homework and afterschool clubs make you want to skip all the way to the airport? At the end of a busy term, the holidays can feel like a welcome break to the daily routine. So after a few days in, it can come as a bit of surprise when the reality of life during the summer holidays hits home – organising childcare, entertaining the kids 24/7 and fitting in your daily chores with kids in tow can sap the energy of even the most adventurous mum.

Here’s how to make sure that the summer holidays are a break for you as well as the kids…

Make a date with yourself every day Schedule 20 minutes of me-time every day. Whether it’s soaking in the bath, reading your favourite magazine or going for a run around the block, doing something that you love gives you the chance to switch off and feel good about yourself.

Ditch the guilt and relax Be kind to yourself and remember it’s your holiday too – don’t feel that you have to be the perfect mum constantly focusing on the needs of your children. Instead, try to find a balance between things that work for you and the rest of the family so that everyone is happy.

Take stock of your life Time away from the daily grind is a great opportunity to focus on yourself and work out whether you’ve got the right work/life balance or whether you need to make some changes. Are you thinking of going back to work, but you don’t know how to make it happen? Are you bored in your job? Maybe all you need is a new hobby or passion to make you feel fulfilled. Tune into your inner voice, listen and take notes of any insights you gain.

Try something new The long summer evenings are an ideal time to do something that makes you feel more alive and fulfilled – whether it’s learning the piano, taking up tennis or speaking a new language. Remember, it’s only by trying something new that you can move out of your comfort zone

Telephone: 01628 627 586

and reap the rewards of greater confidence and happiness.

Let your mind be still Mindfulness seems to be the buzzword of the moment, but what exactly is it? As busy mums who are always on the go, it can be a struggle to relax and pay attention to the present moment. Mindfulness is about becoming more aware of our thoughts and feelings as they happen so we can enjoy the world around us. Just ten minutes of quiet meditation is a great way to improve your mental wellbeing and switch off from the stresses of daily life. Check out this app to help you get started: www.headspace.com.

Switch off your phone Take a break from your phone or tablet for a little while every day and devote that time to your children, so you can focus on being 100% present. Whether it’s playing hide-and-seek, splashing in the paddling pool or baking a cake together, your kids will love it, as will you. Hopefully you’ll find that having had some undivided attention they’re more likely to be happy to entertain themselves when you need to work, cook or clear up; and you’ll also feel calmer and avoid those all too familiar feelings of guilt.

Fiona Clark is a qualified confidence and career coach who founded Inspired Mums to inspire women to reach their full potential at work. For further information email fiona@inspiredmums.co.uk, telephone 07789 597209 or visit www.inspiredmums.co.uk

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

19

Competitions and Offers with WIN A ONE-HOUR PARTY WITH MAD ACADEMY IN THE SL6 AND SL7 POSTCODE AREA* Win a fantastic MAD Academy Party worth £120, courtesy of Emma Hester from MAD Academy Maidenhead.

Organising children’s parties can be a daunting prospect. A room full of energetic, excited, expectant children all waiting to be entertained – it’s enough to make the most proficient parent nervous!

Why not relieve that stress, and allow MAD Academy to bring their enthusiasm, energy and expertise to your party, leaving you free to enjoy the special day with your child?

MAD Academy, who specialise in providing high energy music and movement classes for pre-school children, can also bring their MAD magic to your party. Catering for all ages from 3 months upwards, your party leader will arrive equipped with sound system, music, prizes and games, their mascot Ralph the bear, as well as tons of MAD Academy energy!

To discover more about MAD Academy parties, visit their website, www.madacademy.com or call Emma Hester on 07935 248749. Book before August 2015 and get £20 off.

For your chance to win go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions *Please only enter if you live in SL6 or SL7

WIN THREE GREAT SUMMER ACTION TOYS FROM REVELL* The new, extended Summer Action range of Planes, Rockets and Action Games from Revell offers everything you need for a perfect, action-packed summer and two of our lucky readers will get the chance to win an Air Soarer,T-Bolt Rocket and Fly-Ring.

Hand launch gliders are bound to be a flyaway hit and can survive even harder landings with their expanded rigid foam body. The pre-painted Micro Glider “Air Soarer” is a fantastic fun flyer and easy to handle thanks to its size. The highperformance T-Bolt rocket will really take off, reaching an altitude of up to 50 metres.

Summer fun is fast and furious with the new range of outdoor games. It’s safe flying fun in the park or on the beach with Fly-Ring, a foam flying disc with a 20m range. Revell Summer Action is available from all good toy and model retailers. www.revell.de/en To win this bundle of great prizes go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions *Prizes subject to availability. Competition open to mainland UK and Northern Ireland residents only.

WIN TICKETS TO

WIN A BRAND NEW SWIMPAK

ODDS FARM PARK!

FROM LITTLELIFE!

The Charles Chipperfield Circus, along with their Big Top, return to Odds Farm Park with two must-see Summer Shows and we have 3 Entry Tickets for 2 Adults and 2 Children to give away!

To find out more to go to www.oddsfarm.co.uk. * (Until October, Weather Permitting)

Make a splash this summer with LittleLife’s new SwimPaks.

Perfect for the seaside or pool, these fun froggy bags combine a spacious 10litre compartment with a practical water-resistant exterior.

The SwimPak has a large, top opening that is easy for small hands to access. A secure zip closure ensures all belongings are safely packed away and the bag’s roll-top design guarantees to keep unexpected splashes and sploshes at bay!

An external coin pocket is the perfect size for safely storing locker or ice-cream money.

The grab handle adds an important element of parental security when out and about, while fully-adjustable shoulder straps ensure the SwimPak fits comfortably.

Available in froggy green or hot pink, the SwimPak is perfect for youngsters aged 3+ and will be available from June 2015 at www.littlelife.co.uk.

For your chance to win a family ticket to Odds Farm Park go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions

For your chance to win a SwimPak go www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions

Ooh arr, me hearties! Daily 23-31 July, 8-14 August & 22-28 August, enjoy the Swashbuckling Pirate Shows!

Plus, roll up, roll up… daily 1-7 August, 15-21 August & 29 August-2 September families will love the Circus Spectacular!

With 4 shows daily, each followed by Interactive workshops, all the extra fun is included in entry!

Elsewhere at Odds Farm Park this Summer Holiday, expect more exciting activities – Sheep Racing; *Tractor and Trailer Rides; *splash in the Sand & Water Play Area and meet Furry Friends in the Animal Barns. Plus there’s a Giant Indoor Playbarn with an under5s area too.

20

R

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Living TENNIS offer all year round indoor and outdoor coaching at: • Bisham Abbey National Centre, Marlow • Great Marlow School, Marlow • St Pirans School, Maidenhead • Claires Court Schools, Maidenhead

Booking now for May half-term and Summer Camps.

For full details please visit: www.livingtennis.co.uk or contact Sandy Lee on 01628 487775 slee@livingtennis.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

21

What’s On

Please email listings@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.

A Midsummer Night's Dream at Savill Garden from July 1

See shows at Legoland's new Heartlake City from July

The Wind Rises is at The Firestation, Windsor, on July 18

JULY

Wednesday July 6 to 11 PUTTIN' ON THE RITZ, Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS 01753 863444. The most famous songs from the Golden Age of Hollywood are recreated. Special guests are world champion dance professionals from BBC's Strictly Come Dancing. 8pm, extra shows 2.30pm Thursday, 4.45pm Saturday. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Wednesday July 8 to 12 HENLEY FESTIVAL Headliners Jessie J, Spandau Ballet and Lionel Richie and events for families plus classical programme on Friday. Go to www.henley-festival.co.uk for information.

Friday July 10 NATURE TOTS, WOOLLEY FIRS Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ. 01628 829574. Toddler group with games, bug hunting, mud painting and mask making.

9.30-11.30am and 1-2.30pm on Friday July 10 and Monday July 13 at 9.30am. www.bbowt.org.uk/ From Friday July 10 FAMILY CAMPING – MOTHS AND MOONLIGHT at Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069. An overnight camp in the woods with moth-trapping, bug hunting, toasting marshmallows and storytelling. Bring your tent and a picnic then wake up to a delicious breakfast. 4pm-11.30am. Adult £25, child £15, booking essential: 0844 249 1895. Camping dates: July 10-11, 11-12 and 17-18 and 18-19. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Saturday July 11 THE BEECHES AT WAR, Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, SL2 3TE, 01753 647358.

Following the requisition of the site by the War Department, the Beeches played a prominent part in the D-Day landings. 2-hour walk on the Beeches’ World War 2 history. No dogs. Booking required. Morning event.

Saturday July 18 DOG SHOW Langley Park Country Park, Billet Lane, Iver, SL0 0LS. Pedigree and novelty classes, stalls galore. Cost: £2 per class or 3 classes for £5, free to watch. 11am-4pm. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events/country-park-events/ Saturday July 18 THE WIND RISES (Kaze Tachinu), Firestation Arts Centre, St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3BL, 01753 866865. Stunning animation to capture the imaginations of both young and old. Film 1pm. Tickets £5, £2.50 children, booking fee. www.firestationartscentre.com/ Sunday July 19 SHABBYTIQUE VINTAGE FAIR, Maidenhead Town Centre.Vintage clothing, quirky home and kitchenware, shabby chic furniture, handmade crafts. www.shabbytique.com

From Monday July 21 to July 25 HETTY FEATHER Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1PS, 01753 863444. Jacqueline Wilson’s classic comes to life with circus skills and a huge heart.

Shows: Tue 7pm, Wed 11am & 3.30pm, Thu 3.30pm, Fri 11am & 5am, Sat 11am & 3.30pm. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk From Wednesday July 23 SUMMER SWASHBUCKLING PIRATE SHOWS, Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, Bucks, HP10 0LX, 01628 520 188. Enjoy the singing and dancing of the swashbuckling pirates every other week during the holidays! With four shows daily, all the extra fun is included in entry. Plus animals, indoor and outdoor play, crazy golf and more.

Daily July 23-31, August 8-14 and 22-28. www.oddsfarm.co.uk Friday July 24 NATURE EXPLORERS, Langley Park Country Park, Billet Lane, Iver, SL0 0LS. Follow the self-led trail to find the clues and learn about the plants and animals that live here. Collect a guide from Langley Park Cafe between 1 and 2pm. Cost: £3 per guide. Just turn up on the day. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events/ Saturday July 25 to 26 MAIDENHEAD FESTIVAL – HEROES AND VILLAINS Kidwells Park, Marlow Road, Maidenhead, SL6 7DX. Dust off your capes for two days of themed family fun. Main stage, acoustic tent, stalls, plenty of food, funfair rides and a beach. Free.

Queen tribute band headlines on Saturday night with spectacular fireworks afterwards. Find them on Facebook /maidenheadfestival and Twitter @maidenheadfest.

Saturday July 25 COMMUNITY MARKET Liston Hall, Chapel Street, Marlow, SL7 1DD, 01628 472558.

Monthly indoor market specialising in local foods and crafts, organised by Transition Town Marlow. Includes children's area at some sessions. 9.30am-1pm. www.marlowcommunitymarket.com Saturday July 25 MORGAN & WEST FIRESTATION, St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3BL, 01753 866865.Victorian magic duo Morgan & West unload another boxful of bafflement mixing brain busting illusion and good old-fashioned tom-foolery, for all the family. 8pm. www.firestationartscentre.com/ Saturday July 25 THE WINDSOR GREAT PARK DASH 10K,The Savill Gardens, Wick Lane, Englefield Green, TW20 0UU, 01784 435544. £14 for non-affiliated runners. 9.30am. www.datchetdashers.com to enter.

From July 1 YUCKY YOU SHOW The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354400. Children love this fun filled show to find out the yucky things about our bodies, like bogies, sick, scab, spots and poo! Weekends and school holidays until September 2. Shows 11am, noon, 2pm and 3.15pm, subject to minimum numbers. £1.85 on top of centre entry. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutweekendandholid ayshows Friday July 1 OUTDOOR THEATRE - A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM Savill Gardens, Wick Lane, Englefield Green, TW20 0UU, 01784 435544.

Actors and musicians will transform Britain's finest ornamental garden into a world of warring fairies, lovers and one Bottom with an ass's head. Puck and his musical troupe lead you through the beautiful garden. Adult: £35.

Concessions available. Over-12s. See www.watch-your-head.co.uk.

Friday July 3 CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS in aid of Thames Valley Adventure Playground. Concert held at Taplow Court, Cliveden Road, SL6 0ER, with poems narrated by Tim Brooke-Taylor. 7.30pm. Tickets £12.50 adults, £7.50 under-16s. Call 01628 628051 or email concert@tvap.co.uk Saturday July 4 'BE ARTY' Club Upton House School, 115 St. Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3D, 01753 862610.

Join the ‘Be Arty’ club for an art & illustration course..

Five to eight-year-olds are introduced to numerous techniques and mediums. Term-time, Saturdays, 10.30-11.30am. Busy Buttons Creative Summer Camps for three to 14 year olds to design, create, animate and express themselves run from July 6 to August 7. www.busybuttons.org Saturday July 4 BATTERSEA AT OLD WINDSOR FUN DAY Priest Hill, Old Windsor, Surrey, SL4 2JN, 01784 432929.

Activities galore, stalls and dog shows plus dog talent contests. 10.30am to 5pm. www.battersea.org.uk Saturdays in July THE MAGNA CARTA AND THE CASTLE - Family Saturdays, Windsor Castle, SL4 1NJ, 020 7766 7304. Mark the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta with art and craft workshops and dress up. From 11am-4pm, Moat Room. Standard admission. www.royalcollection.org.uk/event/

R

Thames Valley East

BOOK NOW for advertising in our September/October 2015 Issue Due out September 2 Featuring Back to School Special and Clubs & Classes email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

22

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Compiled by Siobhan Newman Event times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

What’s On

Hetty Feather comes to the Theatre Royal Windsor. July 21-25

Superheroes head to Maidenhead Festival on July 25 & 26

Life's a beach at Norden Farm from July 28

Saturday July 25 MARVELLOUS FESTIVAL Wellington Country Park, Riseley RG7 1SP See Ed Sheeran and Fleetwood Mac – sort of – as the UK’s best tribute bands play. Spitfire Sunday lights up the second day. Call 0118 977 4350 or visit www.marvellousfestivals.com to book tickets.

Sunday July 26 CHARITY FAMILY FUN DAY, Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, SL7 1GJ, 01628 496800. Family fun, live music, BBQ, bouncy castles, face painting, games on the lawn and much more. For Macmillan Cancer Support. Admission free.

From noon. www.cpmarlow.co.uk/ Monday July 27 SUMMER CIRCUS WEEK Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. Learn to walk on stilts, ride a unicycle, walk the tightrope and perform on a trapeze! Suitable for ages 7 to 13 years. 10am-4pm. £115 (£110 Advantage Card). norden.farm/events/ Monday July 27 WOODLAND WONDERS WILDLIFE WALK, Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common, SL2 3TE 01753 647358. Head out on a 2-hour, ranger-led adventure through Burnham Beeches full of games, bug hunts and crafts. For children aged over five; £1 donation per child welcomed. Sorry, no dogs. Tuesday July 28 Tuesday July 28 to August 30 THE MAIDENHEAD BEACH, Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. The beach continues indoors, so whatever the weather it's always summer. Film yourself surfing in the waves then share your movie with family and friends. Explore stories and poems in bottles amongst the Hawaiian-inspired flora and fauna. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm. norden.farm/events/ Wednesday July29 LEGOLAND WORKSHOP Windsor Library Bachelors Acre SL4 1ER 01753 743940 10:30am. Join Legoland at Windsor Library for a fabulous building session, and get a surprise gift to take home. Additional sessions at Windsor and Dedworth Libraries, throughout the holidays. £4 or £3.50 with Advantage Card. Booking Essential.

See www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/libraries_events.htm

Wednesday July 29 WILD WEDNESDAY, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069. Outdoor adventures designed for children aged 4-11.Price: Child £2 (plus normal admission charges).

No booking required. 11am-3pm. Also August 5, 12, 19 & September 2. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Thursday July 30 LUNA CINEMA ASCOT RACECOURSE, High Street, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7JX, 0844 346 3000. Popcorn, picnic rugs and Pimms with movie classics under the stars in the intimate setting of the Old Paddock. It begins with The Theory of Everything and ends with Grease on August 1. www.ascot.co.uk/luna-cinema-2015

Saturday August 1 SUMMER FUN DAY,Thames Valley Adventure Playground, Bath Road, Maidenhead , SL6 0PR, 01628 628599. BBQ and refreshments, Go Karts, live music plus lots of fun and games. Open to all children and adults, with and without special needs. Contribution of £3 per person. 11am to 3pm. www.tvap.co.uk/ Saturday August 1 SUMMER SPECTACULAR CIRCUS, Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, Buckinghamshire, HP10 0LX, 01628 520 188. Every other week of the summer holidays, the Charles Chipperfield Circus returns with spectacular human acts from around the world! Four shows daily, followed by circus skills workshops, all the extra fun is included in entry. Daily 1-7 August, 15-21 August and 29 August-2 September. www.oddsfarm.co.uk Monday August 3 SING-A-LONG FROZEN, Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS, 01753 863444. Introduced by a live host to guide you through this interactive screening showing you how to use your free prop bag, warm up your singing voice and teach you some dance moves with the help of a couple of special princesses. Age recommendation 5+. 11am and 3pm.

Tickets £16.50. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk/ Monday August 3 SUMMER THEATRE WEEK – The Jungle Book, Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 78899. Create an entire show from idea to performance. Experience all aspects of stage production, from lighting to stage blocking to acting with the help of professional directors, then perform on the main stage! Suitable for age 10-18 years. August 3-7 10am-4pm (Fri 5pm). £110 (£95 Advantage Card). norden.farm/events/summer-theatre-week-the-jungle-book Tuesday August 4 THE BASIL BRUSH SHOW, Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS, 01753 863444. Basil and his TV chum Mr Stephen will take you on a journey of laughs, storytelling and song. Tuesday 2.30pm and 5.30pm. Also Wednesday August 5, 11am and 2.30pm. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk/ Tuesday August 4 DEN BUILDING, Langley Park Country Park, Billet Lane, Iver, SL0 0LS. Have a go at building your own den. Bring a picnic along to eat in your den. Booking essential. Meet at Langley Park Cafe. Cost: £16 per family (max 2 adults & 2 children), £3 per extra

AUGUST Saturday August 1 ACCORDING TO ARTHUR, Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. Meet Arthur – an old man who writes stories for the moon. But Arthur needs your help! The moon is nowhere to be seen and without it Arthur can’t finish his stories. Have you got stories to share?

Unleash your imagination in a workshop after the show.

Suitable for ages 6+years. 2pm. £10/£8. norden.farm/events/according-to-arthur Saturday August 1 FAIR LADIES AND NOBLE KNIGHTS, Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ. Discover what life was really like for knights in medieval times, with mail armour demonstrations, trying on armour, art workshops and a special activity trail, 11am to 4pm Saturdays. On Saturday, 1, 8, 15, 22, chat to an armourer in the State Entrance. Entry fee applies. www.royalcollection.org.uk/event/ Saturday August 1 LITTLE MAN – show and workshop, Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 78899. When his terrifying boss reveals the whereabouts of a mysterious treasure island, Little Man is swept along on an exhilarating pirate adventure.

Suitable for ages 4+ years. Post-show workshop with puppetry, narration and mime.11.30am, tickets £10/£8. norden.farm/events/a-little-man-s-holiday

Blossom Ballet FREE summer classes at our new venue in Windsor Please email for details

For a FREE taster class

or for further information

Classes in Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley & Charvil Call Emma on 07935 248749 or email emma.hester@madacademy.com Classes in Windsor, Ascot, Sunningdale & Farnham Royal Call Kate on 01753 830162 or email: kate.lawrence@madacademy.com

please contact Lucy:

07813084283

lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com

Blossom Ballet

is about having lots of fun and making new friends.

Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Bray and Maidenhead.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

23

What’s On

Please email listings@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.

A Little Man's Holiday at Norden Farm on August 1

According to Arthur is at Norden Farm on August 1

Singalong with Frozen at the Theatre Royal Windsor on August 3

family member. Call 01753 511060 or email countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk for more information.

10am to 12pm.

Tuesday August 4 TERRIFIC TUESDAY at Chiltern Open Air Museum, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB 01494 871117. Enjoy themed family crafts and activities at COAM’s famous Terrific Tuesdays throughout August. Become a WWII spy and write letters to the French resistance! Experience how important communication was during the London Blitz in the 1940s. www.coam.org.uk/ Wednesday August 5 PUPPETS IN THE PARK, Savill Gardens, Wick Lane, Englefield Green, TW20 0UU. Free family puppet shows on Obelisk Lawn, next to Savill Garden, every Wednesday in August. Traditional Punch and Judy shows 11am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm, 3.30pm.

Weather dependent. www.theroyallandscape.co.uk/events/ Wednesday August 5 WILD WEDNESDAY BUG HUNT, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. Take your magnifying glass on a bug hunt, set up a snail race and try worm charming. Designed for children aged 4-11.

Price: Child £2 (plus normal admission charges). No booking required. 11am-3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Thursday August 6 MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS, 01753 863444. Shakespeare's Globe actors make their first ever visit to Windsor. Thursday to Saturday evenings, 8pm, Fri & Sat matinees 2.30pm. Until August 8. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk/ Thursday August 6 RHYMETIME FOR UNDER-5’S, Maidenhead Library St Ives Road SL6 1QU 01628 796969 10am. Interactive session of rhymes and singing for under 5’s. Free.

See www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/libraries_events.htm Friday August 7 FILM WALK, Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, SL3 6DS, 01753 511060. Black Park has played host to a great number of major film and TV productions, including Harry Potter and James Bond.

Booking essential. 2pm to 3.30pm. Cost: £5 adult, £3 child, £4 concs, £14 family (max 2 adults & 2 children).

Well behaved dogs welcome. Call 01753 511060 or email: countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk.

Saturday August 8 KIDS' CLUB CINEMA – Shaun the Sheep, Firestation Arts Centre, St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3BL 01753 866865. Film 1pm. Tickets £5, £2.50 child, booking fee applies. www.firestationartscentre.com/ Sunday August 9 FAMILY FUN DAY with Moshi Monsters, Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, SL4 5JJ, 01753 498400. Fantastic day out – plus Katsuma and Poppet from the Moshi Monsters will be making personal appearances throughout the day. Entrance free for accompanied children. Gates 12.15pm. www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk/ Monday August 10 SUMMER ART WEEK, Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997.

Inspired by the theme 'Planet Earth' each day will focus on a different type of creature. The group projects will include a 3D spider, whale and snake plus a bird collage.

Suitable for age 8+ years. 10am-4pm. £115 (£110 Advantage Card). norden.farm/events/summer-art-week Monday August 10 SUMMER NIGHT WALK, Langley Park Country Park, Billet Lane, Iver, SL0 0LS. Find out about life in the park after sunset and remember to bring a torch! Meet at cafe. Four-mile walk, weather dependent. Booking essential Cost: £5 per adult, £3 per child, £14 per family. 8.30-10pm. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events/ Tuesday August 11 CIRCUS SKILLS WORKSHOP, Cookham Library High Road Cookham Rise SL6 9JF 01628 52614711:30am. Come down to Cookham Library and learn how to be a circus performer with this fun and very active Oojamaflip circus workshop. Additional session at Cox Green Library SL6 3AX 2:30. £4 or £3.50 with Advantage Card. Booking Essential.

See www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/libraries_events.htm Tuesday August 11 TERRIFIC TUESDAY – MAGICAL STORIES, Chiltern Open Air Museum, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB, 01494 871117. Explore the myths and legends of days gone by and relive the stories of your favourite heroes. www.coam.org.uk/ Wednesday August 12 MINIBEAST HUNT, Langley Park Country Park, Billet Lane, Iver, SL0 0LS. Hunt for creepy crawlies with the help of rangers, using your mini-beast kit. Event runs at 1pm and then again at 3pm.

Booking essential. Cost: £5 per family (max 2 adults & 2 children). Call 01753 511060 or email:countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk, 1-2pm and 3-4pm.

Wednesday August 12 WILD WEDNESDAY, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069.

Make a goblin mask or a fairy wand and set out on a trail through the gardens to find some fairy houses. Designed for children aged 4-11.Price: Child £2 (plus normal admission charges). No booking required. 11am-3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Wednesday August 12 XBOX MASSIVE HOLIDAY ALL DAYER Firestation Arts Centre, St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3BL, 01753 866865. Head down with your friends, or just jump into the action solo to drive, battle, and play your way onto the leader boards.

Ages 9+. Over 18's must be accompanied by a child, adults £4, £3 child, £6 including a packed lunch. From noon. www.firestationartscentre.com/ Thursday August 13 FAMILY ACTIVITY SHORT BREAK, Longridge, Quarry Wood Road, Marlow, SL7 1RE, 01628 483252. Take part in activities, camp overnight and try more watery fun the next day. Children must be aged 8 or over. See website for prices. www.longridge.org.uk/ Thursday August 13 TREE CLIMBING Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA 01628 605069. A tree top adventure in Cliveden’s woodlands. Price: £17.50 per person for one hour session. Booking essential on 0844 249 1895. Also on August 14, 27, 28.. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Friday August 14 TWELFTH NIGHT, Langley Park Country Park, Billet Lane, Iver, SL0 0LS. Enormously funny, fast-paced production of Shakespeare’s much-loved comedy. All male cast in full Elizabethan costume, with traditional music and dance.Cost: £15 per adult, £8 per child. Advance booking required. Suitable for 8 years and above. Call 01753 511060 or email countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk, 7.30pm-9.30pm.

Tuesday August 18 TERRIFIC TUESDAY at Chiltern Open Air Museum, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB, 01494 871117. Relive the past by exploring amazing buildings. Enjoy playing with historic games and experience how people lived in the past. www.coam.org.uk/

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Learn to swim the eZee way in just 4 weeks -children and adults private one to one swimming -all ages and abilities -crash courses T: 01344 885675 M: 07585 963707 E: info@ezeeswim.co.uk www.ezeeswim.co.uk

24

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Compiled by Siobhan Newman Event times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

What’s On

Punch and Judy at Savill Garden every Wednesday in August

Fair Ladies and Knights at Windsor Castle on Saturdays in August

It's Ladies Day at Windsor Races on August 29

Wednesday August 19 NIGHT WALK, Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, SL3 6DS, 01753 511060. Find out about life in the park after sunset. 8-9.30pm.Bring a torch and wear suitable footwear. Weather dependent.

Booking essential. Cost: £5 per adult, £3 per child, £14 per family. Aged seven and over. Parking nearby. All children under-12 must be accompanied by an adult. Call 01753 511060 or email: countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk Wednesday August 19 WILD WEDNESDAY – BEES AND BUTTERFLIES, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069. Use your butterfly ID sheet to see what species you can find and meet the beekeepers. Aged 4-11. Price: child £2 (plus normal admission charges). No booking required. 11am-3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Thursday August 20 DRESS UP STORY TIME AND FACE PAINTING, Maidenhead Library St Ives Road SL6 1QU 01628 79696910am. Dress up in your favourite costume and join us for a special story time with face painting to complete your look. £2 per child.

See www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/libraries_events.htm Friday August 21 TREE CLIMBING Langley Park Country Park, Billet Lane, Iver, SL0 0LS. Enter a tree's canopy using ropes, knots and karabiners. Suitable for all ages over 6 years old. £18.50. Call 0800 055 6760 or email: info@bigtreeclimbing.co.uk, 10.30am to 4.30pm. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events/ Saturday August 22 MEET THE RANGER Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common, SL2 3TE, 01753 647358.Another chance to join a ‘drop in’ session at the Information Point.

Monday August 24 TEDDY BEARS PICNIC, Boyn Grove Library 11 Courthouse Road SL6 6JE 01628 685617 1-2pm. Bring your favourite teddy and a packed lunch and join us for a fun Teddy Bear’s Picnic at the Library. £1 per child. See www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/libraries_events.htm Tuesday August 25 to 27 OPEN DAYS at Frogmore, Windsor Castle grounds, SL4 1NJ. Explore the 17th century house and garden.Visit www.royalcollection.org.uk or call 020 77667305 for tickets. Animal Explorers Chiltern Open Air Museum, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB, 01494 871117. Discover what creepy crawlies live around our museum and create some amazing nature themed crafts. www.coam.org.uk/

Wednesday August 26 FUN IN THE PARK, Black Park, Wexham, SL3 6DS, 01753 511060. The hugely popular family event is back on the open space in Black Park this year fun-packed with falconry displays, Punch & Judy, magic shows, crazy golf, petting farm, face painting, giant inflatables, horse and carriage rides, fun games and pocket money shop. Hog roast, BBQ and ice-cream. Free entry. Noon to 4pm. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events/country-park-events/black-pa rk/fun-in-the-park/?e=107183 Wednesday August 26 WILD WEDNESDAY, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069.

The outdoor adventures by the gardens team. Designed for children aged 4-11.Price: Child £2 (plus normal admission). 11am-3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Thursday August 27 BAT WALK, Black Park, Wexham, SL3 6DS, 01753 511060. Use bat detectors to convert the echo location of bats around the park as they hunt for food. Book early and remember to bring a torch!

Weather dependent. Cost: £5 adult, £3 child, £4 concs., £14 family. Call 01753 511060 or email: countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk Thursday August 27 & 28 CHILDREN’S OUTDOOR THEATRE – The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069.

Illyria present this story of a boy wizard. Lots of laughter, magical illusions and plenty of water! 2.30-4pm. Adult £14, child £10 (3-16 years) Booking essential on 0844 249 1895. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Friday August 29 BLACK PARK OPEN-AIR CINEMA presents Stardust Black Park, Wexham, SL3 6DS. With scenes filmed just behind where you’ll be sitting, Stardust mixes romance and adventure. Bring a blanket or hire a reclining deckchair for £5. Refreshments available. Early online booking is essential – parking and popcorn are included. 8.30pm, ends 10.30pm. Pre-booking rate: £13 adult, £10, child, £42, family (2 adults + 2 children). PG rating. Call 01753 511060 or email:countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk Friday August 29 JO WHILEY AT LADIES DAY, Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, Windsor, SL4 5JJ, 01753 498400. Visit. The DJ leads the entertainment at the races. Dress up and bring the children for free (up to three children per adult). Book in advance to save £3 on all enclosures. www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk

Friday August 29 OUTDOOR THEATRE – The Three Musketeers, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 01628 605069. Pack a picnic and join D’Artagnan on his adventures across France as he seeks to become an elite Musketeer. An open air performance in the Water Garden at 6pm. Adult £16.50, child £10 Booking essential on 0844 249 1895. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Saturday August 31 LITTLEWICK SHOW, Braywick Roundabout, Maidenhead, SL6 2HT. Epic show with displays horticultural, farming, rural and other craft skills, amusements, sideshows, loads of entertainment, sales and stalls. littlewickshow.co.uk/

SEPTEMBER Tuesday September 1 SCULPTURE IN THE GARDEN Savill Gardens, Wick Lane, Englefield Green TW20 0UU, 01784 435544. Explore a trail of imaginative and innovative sculpture. Standard entry fees apply. Until October 31. www.theroyallandscape.co.uk/gardens-and-landscape/thesavill-garden/ Wednesday September 2 WILD WEDNESDAY – Wild Art, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069. Explore the grounds collecting found objects before creating your own piece of wild art to take home. Aged 4-11. Price: Child £2 (plus admission charges). No booking required. 11am-3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Friday September 2 OUTDOOR THEATRE – Twelfth Night. Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069. Pack a picnic and enjoy an open air performance in the Water Garden. 7pm. Adult £16.50, child £10. Booking essential on 0844 249 1895. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Tuesday September 8 & 9 Toddler Days, The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354400. Activities include art and craft, play dough, face or hand painting and story telling. Autumn season starts with a Teddy Bear theme on September 8 and 9. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre

THE PAULINE QUIRKE ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS

IS ENROLLING NOW For Little Kickers & Little Rugby classes in Maidenhead, Bourne End, Henley, Marlow & Stokenchurch. Call 01628 526 584 or email bevans@littlekickers.co.uk.

For Little Kickers classes at Ascot, Slough, Windsor and Stoke Poges call 07412 166 686 or email sleslie@littlekickers.co.uk Call for Birthday Party entertainment information

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2015

IN MAIDENHEAD Outstanding performing arts tuition for 4 - 18 year olds. www.pqacademy.com 084567 32022

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

25

Parenting

Dads in charge

By Judy Yorke

New rules have completely changed the way parents can take time off after having a baby

J

ust a few years ago, dads could only take a fortnight off to spend with their newborn. While 2011 saw the introduction of increased paternity leave, it was only available when mums went back to work.

But new Shared Parental Leave regulations give eligible parents across the UK flexibility to juggle childcare between them. After a compulsory two weeks off for the mother, parents can share up to 50 weeks of leave in the baby’s first year (or the first year of adoption). The law applies to same sex couples and those bringing up a child together, even if it’s from a previous relationship.

Taking it in turns How you split the leave is up to you. It will depend on who earns more, who feels their career will be least affected by taking time off, and who wants to be at home.

Significantly, for the first time, dads can take the year off while mums return to work.

The leave can be taken in blocks (up to

three each) so you can alternate time off if one of you has a particularly busy time at work before resuming parental leave. It’s a big advantage if you don’t want to be away from work for too long.

Some dads might want to return to work in the early months when mums are breastfeeding. Once babies start on solids, it can be easier for dads to be fully handson so they might want to take time off then, either in one go or in several blocks.

Sharing the load One big advantage is that parents can be off at the same time. Many mums need their partner’s support in those first magical, exhausting, bewildering weeks and can dread their partner going back to work after a fortnight. In these cases, a few more weeks with both of you at home could help enormously.

Having time off together can benefit families with older children while everyone is getting used to a new member of the family. It means one parent can focus on

them and make sure they don’t feel left out. This can also be important in the school holidays when day trips with a newborn are tricky.

Can you afford it?

Finances will play an important part in the decision. While you can share up to 50 weeks, only 37 are paid.You will receive £139.58 per week or 90% of your average weekly earnings, whichever is lower.

See more on www.gov.uk/government/topicalevents/shared-parental-leave.

Journalist Judy Yorke has written for many titles including the Daily Mirror, Closer and Woman. She trains businesses and individuals in writing skills and is an editor, copywriter and journalism tutor. She lives in Brighton with husband Adrian and sons, Kit, 10, and Rory, eight.

Eva Winter Osteopath BSc (Hons), DPO • Providing safe and effective hands-on treatment for adults, children and babies • Vitality Osteopaths, 1st Floor 36 West Street, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 2NB

For more information T: 01494 482028 M: 07776 448700 E: evaosteopathy@gmail.com W: evawinter.co.uk Registered with the General Osteopathic Council, British Osteopathic Association and Alumni for Paediatric Osteopathy

26

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Make a Bird Puppet

It's the summer holidays and whatever the weather your local Scrapstore has everything your family needs to make, create and play.

Get Crafty 6.Tie two lengths of wool to the second cardboard cylinder to make a body 7. Attach the wings to the body with tape.

8. Bend one pipe cleaner to create a foot, leaving a loop through which to tie the wool for the legs.

Repeat.

9. Tie a length of wool through each of the foot loops. Attach to the body.

10. Attach the head and body to the wooden stick with wool.

T

he Scrapstore, collects clean, re-usable waste materials from local companies and offers them to community groups and families. It’s a little like going to the supermarket, only it’s a lot more fun, as it’s your imagination that you’re shopping for!

What you will need from: • 2 cardboard cylinders • Thick red foam • 2 white plastic washers • 2 black plastic stoppers • 2 yellow pipe cleaners • White card • Yellow paper • Wooden stick • Several lengths of wool You will also need: • Scissors • Strong glue • Sticky tape

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Instructions 1. Glue the yellow paper to the white card. Roll the card to create a cone for the beak.

11. Join the head to the body with a length of wool.Your bird puppet is finished!

To find your local Scrapstore go to www.scrapstoresuk.org.

2. Make a head by pushing the cone through one of the cardboard cylinders and tape in place

3. Press the black plastic stoppers into the white plastic washers to make the eyes.

4. Glue the eyes to the head.

5. Cut wings from the red foam.

JULY/AUGUST 2015

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

27

Ed’s Reading Room

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere!

I’m Ed and here is my Summer book selection for you to enjoy. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website for primary children in homes and schools. See these reviews, download the specially written reading activities for these books and buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com. Have fun reading!

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS Nixie the Bad, Bad Fairy

by Cas Lester (Oxford £5.99)

The Accidental Prime Minister

by Tom McLaughlin (Oxford £6.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Meet Nixie – a bad but delightful fairy. Nixie’s magic wand is as naughty as she is and is forever getting her into trouble, as if she needed any help! The fairies are preparing for the Blossom Ball, putting up the party tent, icing fairy cakes and stringing fairy lights on the trees. But with Nixie around, tidying the petals turns into a mini tornado and making a magic potion ends up with magical mayhem. Hopefully it will be all right on the night.

‘This is a super book in an exciting new series. It features a fun-loving character whose mischief will be enjoyed by girls and boys alike.’

ED SAYS: ‘When Joe’s mum announces they are closing the park Joe realises it means her job is finished. But when he tells his mum he’ll think of something she doesn’t realise where it will all lead. Joe accidentally becomes Prime Minister. He doesn’t know how he is going to run the country – all he knows is he wants laughter instead of grumpiness and a rollercoaster in Downing Street. All goes well until his nasty deputy plots his downfall. How will Joe deal with this? And will he be able to get the Queen on his side?

‘This is a hilarious tale that is action-packed from start to finish. It will entertain and delight young – and not so young – readers.’

Superhero School: Alien Attack!

by Alan MacDonald (Bloomsbury £4.99)

Theodore Boone:The Fugitive

by John Grisham (Hodder £12.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Stan and his friends at Mighty High School are on an exciting school trip to a Superhero Convention.

Stan is hoping to meet Captain Courageous but all he manages to do is buy some bionic bubblegum.When Miles sees a spaceship landing in the car park he can’t resist going to meet the aliens but in so doing complicates things for his friends.

Will they be able to rescue him from the aliens, will the bionic bubblegum prove to have been a good buy and will they finally meet Captain Courageous?

‘This is a very funny book that is a real page-turner. It has fantastic illustrations throughout that complement the story brilliantly.’

ED SAYS: ‘Theo is on a school trip to Washington DC with his class mates, seeing the sights and learning about the capital city of the US. When he catches sight of the most wanted man in the history of his home town he doesn’t realise how deep he could be drawn into the manhunt with the FBI and the subsequent court case. Will Theo find himself in more danger than ever before and will the fugitive be brought to justice?

‘Here is another exciting and fascinating story featuring the young wouldbe lawyer,Theodore Boone.This fast-moving legal drama is a brilliant read.

Look out for the other books in this fantastic series.’

Ed’s Reading Room is at www.EdontheWeb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. See Maggie’s latest ebooks at www.WalkWalk.co.uk.

You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com. n s ope lar rning eld u g Re e mo ing h

e e coff now b e r a

Wednesday 23rd September 2015

Book during your visit and save up to £260.00

28

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

When baby makes three ...

Bumps ‘n’ Babes

Looking forward to the arrival of a new baby and contemplating life as a family can make couples feel closer than ever. But what many don’t think about is how much their lives will be changed by the pint-sized new arrival...

D

espite promising yourselves that having a baby wouldn’t change your life as a couple, your lovely ‘bundle of joy’ starts their life by calling the shots. They demand to be fed, winded, bathed, cuddled and entertained, and you find that your time is no longer your own.

However, as Denise Knowles of Relate advises, in the excitement and exhaustion of life as new parents, you must make time to nurture your relationship: “Sometimes a mum or dad can feel neglected or pushed out. Generally, new dads want to be involved much more than we really appreciate, or sometimes mums feel they have to do it all.”

The pressure to be the perfect parent, sleep deprivation, as well as any growing resentments between you, can put a strain on many relationships. Denise warns that unless couples work through any issues arising from the new family dynamic, cracks can start appearing in their relationship that may emerge later.

According to Denise, communication and staying in touch (literally as well as figuratively) with your other half, is key to working through the inevitable teething problems of being a new family.

“Even if you don’t have a great deal of time, spend some time together. Don’t feel guilty about postponing the washing, ironing or cleaning to create time for being a couple.

“Take time to hug or cuddle one another; and think about giving your partner a gift on a daily basis. I’m not talking about going out and buying a

Telephone: 01628 627 586

present – just something simple like paying them a compliment, noticing that they are tired and offering to make them a cup of tea, or having a date night (even if you stay in).

Trusted support “It is important to be able to develop trusted support networks so that you can leave the baby even if it is only to pop out together for an hour for a walk. It doesn’t cost you money but it gives you the space and privacy to really talk to one another.

Don’t always talk about the baby.”

She also recommends allowing each other some space for individual interests and time to maintain their own friendships.

“To be a good parent you need to be true to yourself,” she says.

As a new mum, tired, busy, possibly having returned to work, short of time and money, the idea that not only do you have to look after your baby, but that your adult partner also needs your attention could be like red rag to a bull.

JULY/AUGUST 2015

Before you have a rant at the unfairness of being burdened with yet another responsibility, pause for a moment to reflect on some sobering statistics: 42 % of marriages end in divorce; and half of divorces involve children under 16.

Between a 4th and an 8th wedding anniversary, a couple’s chances of getting divorced the next year is more than 3%.

So if you would like to grow old with your other half, don’t lose sight of your relationship and stay in touch with your feelings for one another. It might seem like an eternity away, but your babies will eventually fly the nest, while your partner can still be there for you.

If you are having problems in a relationship you can approach Relate for counselling. They offer online counselling and support as well as seeing couples or individuals. You can get relationship support as an individual even if your partner does not want to attend counselling.

For more information see www.relate.org.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

29

Mums Who Mean Business Local Mum Lena Britnell started her jewellery business pre-baby, and has found it a great way to use her creativity, earn a part time income and maintain a great work-life balance, now she has a young family.

Who you are and where do you live?

My name is Lena Britnell and I live where I grew up, near High Wycombe.

Why you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

I set up my business, personally pearl, in 2010 prior to having children. I had always loved colour and fashion but had never found an outlet for my creativity. When I got started, I set myself a goal to develop my business idea on a trial basis over a one year period and see what happened. Since then, and after a move from London, maternity leave and a difficult pregnancy, my business has continued to grow organically and now encompasses jewellery making parties, workshops and classes which I teach myself. I love to share my passion with others through teaching jewellery making and find owning my own business a great way to connect with my local community and maintain a good work life balance.

What did you use to do?

I used to work for one of the Big 4 consulting firms in London, a world away from my

highlight was being featured in British Vogue as part of their Beautifully Bespoke feature in 2012 and this came just at the right time to propel me to continue the business once I had started a family.

What are your plans for the future?

I am making the shift from being a purely online company to a local creative business. My jewellery parties are going from strength to strength, and I may need to consider a franchise model in the near future to meet demand for my children’s jewellery parties. I also continue to be regularly commissioned to create bridal and wedding jewellery that I love to do as it brings me back to the reason I started personally pearl.

BOOK YOUR PLACES NOW!

Summer Workshops at Stagecoach Maidenhead!!

Our workshop week's are fun, lively and action packed!

Children learn new skills and make new friends.

Every workshop ends with a show that parents can H watch and are suitable for all levels.

Workshop 1 3-7 August 2015

Workshop 2 17-21 August 2015

ages 4-6yrs, 9.30am-12.30pm, £70 (half price for siblings) ages 6-16yrs, 10am-4pm, £125 (half price for siblings)

Go to www.personallypearl.com to find out more and book your child’s jewellery making party. Plus find out more about their wedding and occasion jewellery.

Call Sarah on 07472 208303 to book your place!

Stagecoach Theatre Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principles.

STAGECOACH is a registered trade mark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

30

working environment nowadays! Back then, despite holding a degree from the London School of Economics, I found myself ill equipped to flourish in the corporate world. With the support of my amazing husband I grabbed the opportunity to use my business acumen and creative skills to start personally pearl. I negotiated part time hours in my day job to make sure I got some relevant experience and training as well as spending a lot of time researching the market.

What inspired you to set up the business?

When I got married I was unable to find the right accessories for my big day within my budget. When a friend suggested I try and design my own, I felt an idea forming for a business built around customers – bespoke but affordable pearl jewellery to suit you. I trained at the London Jewellery School then launched www.personallypearl.com a year later. A major

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988

600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2015

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Classifieds Having always hankered after working in the wine industry, former IT Project Manager Jo Randell, turned a successful blog into a wine merchant business, Perfect Friday Wine.

www.candlebyparties.co.uk

Fab Candle-Making Parties for Girls!

Find out more and receive a FREE candle-making kit by visiting:

Who you are and where do you live?

My name is Jo Randell, I run Maidenhead based business, Perfect Friday Wine, selling and delivering hand-picked (and delicious) wine through my website www.perfectfridaywine.com, tasting events and by the

photo: photojodie.com

bit.ly/candle-making-party Or call us on: 01628 947224

bottle on my pop-up stall. I have lived in Maidenhead for over 10 years and have a 5-yearold daughter and a 3.5-year-old son.

Why did you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

I attained my Wines and Spirits Education Trust Advanced qualification back before I had kids with the idea that one day I might set up my own wine business, so although I kind of 'fell in' to, and enjoyed my previous career, this time I have followed my passion.

What did you use to do?

I worked as an IT Project Manager for 15 years at the same company, straight from graduating. It was time for a change.

What inspired you to set up the business?

After returning to work after having my second child, I needed a creative outlet and also a focus to refresh my wine knowledge, so I began perfectfridaywine.com as a wine blog in Autumn 2012. The name was based on that Friday Feeling I'd get driving home and the thought of which wine was on the wine rack to kick off the weekend. I also figured that if I ever did want to start up my own company, I needed a website with some good content and web presence.

As I started sharing great wines through my writing, I realised that there were a lot of folk out there fumbling about when choosing wine to drink and instead of sticking to the same old wines, they were listening to my recommendations. Instead of talking about other people's wines, I decided that I'd source some great examples of wines, both well known, but also those that are overlooked, and start selling them locally to Maidenhead. I set up the business, finding suppliers etc. while still working full time, then started selling wine in December 2013 on a market stall on Maidenhead High Street.

What are your plans for the future?

I have some big ideas for when the kids are a bit older but while they're still little and I can be around for them a bit more after school and the holidays, I plan to keep growing my local customer base and continue to find great wines for them to drink and enjoy. It's important to me that I get to meet my customers and that I give them the opportunity to taste some of the wines before they buy. This year I've taken more of a tasting event approach to sell wine and seeing old and meeting new customers, so I hope to not only host more private parties, but continue to arrange ticketed events. In the next few months, I have a Wine Club in mind to reward my most loyal customers and to ensure that those wine lovers who like a regular delivery of great wine, never go short. I'm also looking at sourcing birth year vintage wine for parents to keep for their kids when they're old enough to enjoy it themselves.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2015

MM Popcorn and Hotdog Hire

Local commercial popcorn and hotdog machine to hire

perfect for school fairs, christenings, community events, children’s parties From £80 machine hire only or £120 staffed option

Call us on 07415 746 196 www.mm-popcorn-hire.co.uk

Doudouclass Maidenhead Chinese School Mandarin classes for adults and children from 3.5 years old onwards EVERY SAT 1:30pm to 2:30pm Old Vic house, St Mary's Church SL61YY

Email:doudouclass@gmail.com

Call: 07979105918 Or: 07538820819 www.Doudouclass.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

31