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Winnie and Wilbur © Valerie Thomas and Korky Paul, published by Oxford University Press © Winnie the Witch illustration Korky Paul
Jacqueline Wilson together with illustrator Nick Sharratt
Jonny Duddle
Michael Rosen
Join our amazing BookFests! BOURNVILLE
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BookFest BookFest BookFest BookFest 14th-24th March 2019
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Paddington's First Concert with live orchestral music
Saturday 17th November 2.00pm and 4.00pm
Tickets: www.bcu.ac.uk/concerts Image © Snowman Enterprises Limited. “The Snowman” by Raymond Briggs is published by Puffin. www.thesnowman.com
Creating fantastic family memories!
IN THIS ISSUE… Birmingham Welcome to the November-December issue of Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield Magazine. It’s a busy, busy, busy season for all, with so much to fit into a few short weeks in this final run up to Christmas. Families Birmingham is proud to bring you the very best of what our fabulous region of the country has to offer, right here at your fingertips! Take a look at our competitions page – could you be one of the lucky families to win a set of tickets to see a local production this winter? This issue has so much keep your family healthy and happy, educated and entertained from now until the New Year, and beyond. I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas. See you in the New Year!
Suzanne Brown
News
7
Christmas gifts
8
Competitions
9
Winter fun - Indoors
10
Equipping children for a digital future
12
Working from home
13
Supporting your child with friendship challenges
14
Clubs, classes and activities
15
Christmas markets
16
What’s on
Editor Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield
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News
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Odd Socks day for Anti-Bullying Week
Meet the reindeers at the MAC
Anti-Bullying Week runs from 12 - 16 November 2018 and the theme this year is choosing respect over bullying.
Beautiful reindeers are coming to Midlands Art Centre this November to spread their unique Christmas magic! They will be located in a penned area, just behind the MAC, along with an experienced handler, with access to water, food and with the freedom to move around. The reindeer are looking forward to the attention and fuss they receive at this time of year, and have been trained for this specific role to bring joy to children at Christmas time. However, their needs will be catered for too as they will have space to lie down, sleep and back away from the public if necessary. So bring the little ones along to meet Santa's special 4-legged helpers before they take off into the Christmas skies this year! MAC Birmingham, 10 Nov, 10am – 2pm, www.macbirmingham.co.uk, www.thereindeerwhisperer.co.uk
The aim of the week is to support schools to help children understand: • The definition of respect • That bullying is a behavioural choice • That we can respectfully disagree with each other i.e. we don’t have to be best friends or always agree with each other but we do have to show each other respect • That we all need to choose to respect each other, both face-to-face and online Students are being encouraged to wear odd socks to school on Monday 12 November to show their support and raise money for a good cause. To get involved, visit www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk
Talking to young children about war this Remembrance Day Remembrance Day this year will be on Sunday 11 November and will be especially significant as it will mark 100 years since the original agreement to end fighting during the First World War in 1918, also known as Armistice Day. Accordingly, you can expect that there will be a great deal of media coverage given to this significant commemoration and your child may be prompted to ask you questions. Discussing war with children can be quite difficult. Recognising this, CBeebies has produced a short animation, simply titled ‘Poppies’ to help convey the notion of remembrance in a way that resonates with a young audience. It is a really beautiful piece to watch and would be a great way to introduce any discussion of Remembrance Day. The 2 minute film follows a bunny who starts off playing in a meadow, which then becomes a WW1 battlefield. The film can be viewed on the CBeebies website at www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies 4 Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield
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News
@familiesbirminghammag
Enjoy a Tudor Style Christmas at Blakesley Hall Tudor Christmas There will be special guided tours of Blakesley Hall exploring Christmas in the time of the Tudors. Come and enjoy the fun Christmas activities which are included as part of the tour. You’ll find mince pies and festive punch available in the tearoom. Pre-booking is advised. Every Wednesday and Thursday 5 Dec - 20 Dec, 12.15pm, 1.15pm & 2.15pm. Entry included in ticket price.
Santa at Blakesley Come along and meet Santa in the Great Hall and see a splendid Blakesley all decorated ready for Christmas. Children can make a Christmas card to take home with them and write a letter to Santa. All children receive a small present when meeting Santa! 15 - 16 Dec, 11am, 12pm, 2pm & 3pm. Adult £7.00 Concession: £5.00 Child: £3.00. Entry included in ticket price www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/blakesley
Beat those nasty nits! If your children have had head lice before, then you may have been put off using expensive neuro-toxic pesticides on their heads. Bug Busting is a head louse detection and eradication method, which works by combining specially designed bevel-edged combs with your own family shampoo and conditioner. The Bug Busting method detects & clears lice completely without special treatments, removes lice systematically, breaking the life-cycle in four sessions spaced over two weeks and eliminates unsightly eggshells comfortably. The Bug Buster Kit is NHS approved and safe for babies, children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and those with allergies. It costs £6.40 plus P&P but is reusable – only one kit is required per family To order a kit or for further information and advice, visit Community Hygiene Concern (CHC) at www.chc.org or call 01908 561928.
A daily mile improves children’s health An initiative to get schoolchildren to walk or run a mile every day leads to significant improvements in their health, according to a study. The Daily Mile scheme was originally the brainchild of a Scottish head teacher who started it in 2012. Researchers at Stirling University compared the health of children at a primary school taking part in the scheme with those at a school that wasn’t participating. The children wore accelerometers which recorded how much moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) they were undertaking every day, and for how long they were sedentary. Children who were doing the Daily Mile were significantly healthier than those who were not. According to the Daily Mile Foundation, more than 3,600 schools worldwide have introduced the initiative, including about 1,200 in England, 770 in Scotland, 210 in Wales, 85 in Northern Ireland and more than 100 in the Republic of Ireland. More information at www.stir.ac.uk and www.thedailymile.co.uk
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News
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How easily can babies sense stress?
Reception test criticised
Babies may not be able to convey complex emotions, but they can still feel what their mothers are feeling, at least when it comes to stress.
Guidelines recently released by the government say the new reception baseline assessment will be short (about 20 minutes), interactive and practical. It will cover language and communication, early mathematics and social and behavioural skills.
In a recent study, 69 mothers and their babies ages 12 to 14 months had cardiovascular sensors attached to them to record heart rate. The mothers were divided into groups to perform tasks ranging from “no-stress” to “high stress.” Their babies were not with them whilst they carried out these tasks and they were reunited ten minutes later. Researchers then examined changes in heart function. Within minutes of being reunited, Infants of mothers in the “high-stress” condition experienced matching changes in heart rate. This stress contagion effect grew stronger as time passed. “Your infant may not be able to tell you that you seem stressed or ask you what is wrong, but our work shows that, as soon as she is in your arms, she is picking up on the bodily responses accompanying your emotional state and immediately begins to feel in her own body your own negative emotion” said study researcher Sara Waters of New York University. More info, visit www.parentingscience.com
Children who start Reception in September 2020 will be the first group to take the new Reception test, a baseline measure to track pupils’ progress during primary school. It is proposed that it will take place during the first 6 weeks of the autumn term.
However, the proposed test has been criticised in a report written by an expert panel and published by the British Education Research Association. The report’s authors say that the assessment is highly likely to produce unreliable and invalid results, as it fails to recognise that young children develop at different paces and doesn't adjust for key factors, such as differences in ages and family background. Add to this the fact that teachers and practitioners are likely to become increasingly pressured to 'teach to the test', and it is difficult to see how baseline results will have any real value. More info at www.bera.ac.uk
A feast of festive fun at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall Following last year’s record-breaking production of Jack and the Beanstalk, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall is delighted to present its 2018 pantomime, Beauty and the Beast. Building upon the success of their 2017 pantomime, this year’s Town Hall show will be produced by The Production Exchange whose reputation for producing professional pantomimes up and down the country means this is most definitely not one to miss! Beauty and the Beast, the magical family pantomime, will run from Tuesday 11th December until Monday 31st December 2018. “The Production Exchange is very excited about bringing this professional pantomime to Sutton Coldfield Town Hall” said Colin Blumeneau, this year’s pantomime producer. “We are looking forward to making a dynamic, colourful and highly musical show with our young and incredibly talented team. The production will feature many traditional pantomime elements mixed with a few innovations, we will whisk the audience through one of the most potent love stories ever told - and have a great deal of fun along the way!” Tickets for this production are now on sale, starting at just £10. Special rates for school bookings apply and are encouraged to book early. www.townhallsuttoncoldfield.co.uk 0121 296 9543
6 Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield
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Christmas Gifts
@familiesbirm
This year’s ‘must-have’ Christmas toy guide Every year, desperate parents exhaust themselves searching high and low for the most wanted toys on their child’s Christmas list. To avoid last minute panic and possible disappointment, the key is to do your research and start shopping early. To help you get prepared, we’ve put together a guide to Families’ favourite Christmas toys for 2018. The Poopsie Unicorn Surprise, ÂŁ49.99
Dino Fingerling (ÂŁ16.99) www.argos.co.uk Age: 6+ This year WowWee Toys' popular Fingerlings are all about dinosaurs (or mythical unicorns, if you fancy something a little less ďŹ erce). The dinos respond to motion and sound and are bound to be a massive hit.
Gravitrax (ÂŁ48.29)
www.amazon.co.uk Age: 3+
www.amazon.co.uk Age: 8+
Mums and dads across the country will be delighted to ďŹ nd this defecating unicorn on Christmas lists! The Poopsie Unicorn Surprise is a ‘cute’ toy that poops out glittery slime when you feed it special unicorn food. While I can hear parents visibly groaning, this is sure to be a hit with unicorn-lovers everywhere. Plus if you are worried about getting unicorn glitter poo all over your carpet on Christmas day, never fear, the toy comes with its own potty!
A cool game that encourages kids to boost their STEM skills. Use your imagination to build superb tracks and set the Gravity Spheres rolling! The game combines physics, architecture, and engineering, to engage and improve young minds. You can also buy additional packs to extend the system. A great buy for kids that love building, marble runs and Lego.
Densters (ÂŁ19.99) www.ďŹ rebox.com Age: 3+ All children love building a den! This great kit allows kids to set up their own hideaway in minutes. The set contains exible toy monsters so you can create a magical den from everyday household items. It’s a great way to get your kids off a gadget!
LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Set (£89.99) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 9-15 Lego and Harry Potter in the same box, what’s not to love? If you've got a wizard-mad child at home, this 878-piece set will allow them to recreate the magic of Hogwarts. This lovely set has lots of detail that will give Harry Potter fans hours of fun.
My Rebounder Mini Rebounding Trampoline, ÂŁ89.99 www.myrebounder.co.uk Age 4+ Classic fun, these rebounders (small trampolines) will keep kids active all year round and can be used inside and out. They help improve strength, balance, co-ordination and general ďŹ tness. They can also be folded, so they won’t take up too much room.
VTech Kiddizoom Smart Watch (ÂŁ44.99) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 4+ This cool watch features a camera for photo and video taking, 3D style digital and analogue clock faces and eight great games. It also has a motion sensor for a pedometer so they can measure their steps. The watch also has a calculator, calendar, alarm, stopwatch and voice recorder. Plus the option to download more apps and games!
Magical Lanttern Festival Birmingh ham 2018
Pie Face Cannon (ÂŁ26.99) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 5+ Pie Face continues to make the Christmas list year after year, and 2018 looks to be no different. This year you can buy a Pie Face Cannon. The cannon ďŹ res a pie every time, and it’s up to the contestant to use the red hand to stop getting “piedâ€?. A great game to play after Christmas dinner! Pies away!
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23rd 3 d Nov N 2018 8 - 1st 1 Jan 2019 9 Birmiingham Bo otanical Gardens Westbourne Rd, Biirmingham B15 3TR For 20% % discountt use code NEW WS20
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Competitions
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WIN a family ticket to Pinocchio at the Old Rep Theatre Join the Old Rep as they bring Pinocchio to life this Christmas! This adaptation of Carlo Collodi’s classic tale follows an inquisitive young puppet, carved from wood by the lonely toymaker Geppetto on a mischievous journey to discover what it takes to become a real boy. For the chance to WIN a family ticket (4 seats) to see Pinocchio on Saturday 22 December, 5.30pm, simply answer the following question: What substance is the puppet Pinocchio made from? Is it: (a) Wood (b) Plastic (c) Metal Competition closes Sunday 2 December 17 Nov – 30 Dec | www. oldreptheatre.co.uk | 0121 359 9444 | Tickets from £10.90
WIN a family ticket to Sleeping Beauty at The Core Theatre Enter for a chance to WIN a set of family tickets (worth £70) to Solihull’s fantastic new traditional family pantomime show Sleeping Beauty on Friday 14 December, 7pm. The pantomime, set in Bromwich Castle, contains daring duels, doting dragons, lavish sets, costumes and bucket loads of laughs. For the chance to WIN a family ticket (4 seats) answer the following question: Where is the Sleeping Beauty panto set? Is it: (a) Buckingham Palace (b) Bromwich Castle (c) Windsor Castle Competition closes Sunday 25 November 14 Dec – 6 Jan | www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk | 0121 704 6962 | Tickets £17.50 - £20
WIN a family ticket to The Snowman at Birmingham Repertory Theatre When a young boy's snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve, the two set off on a night-time quest for adventure. They meet Father Christmas, dancing penguins, reindeer and crowds of The Snowman's friends, but will they escape evil Jack Frost and get back home for Christmas morning? Enter our competition, and be a part of the magic this season. For the chance to WIN a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to see The Snowman on Friday 18 January, 7pm, simply answer the following question: What magical day of the year does the young boy’s Snowman come to life? Is it: (a) Christmas Eve (b) Boxing Day (c) New Year’s Day Competition closes Sunday 6 January 2019 16 - 26 January 2019 | www.birmingham-rep.co.uk 0121 236 4455 | Tickets from £10
TO ENTER the competition(s) of your choice just email us by the closing date given. Put the name of your chosen competition in the subject line of your message, and send your answer, your name, postal address and best contact number to editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk - Good luck! Competitions. Terms and conditions. 1. Only one entrant from the same email account will be accepted per competition. 2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering. 3. Entries must be received by the closing date stated on each individual competition. Proof of entering cannot be taken as proof of receipt. 4. All decisions of Families Birmingham Magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into. 5. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize. 6. Winners’ contact details will be supplied to the Promoter of each competition. 7. Families Birmingham is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition. 8. By entering a competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions. 9. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and contacted via the email account provided by the entrant in the first instance, and then by phone if necessary. If Families Birmingham does not obtain a response from the winner within 24 hours, we reserve the right to select another winner at random. 10. These competitions are restricted to residents of the West Midlands only.
8 Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield
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Winter Fun
@familiesbirminghammag
Winter fun – indoors! During the winter months, there’s no avoiding spending much more time indoors. It’s tempting to allow the kids to while away the time on devices or playing on their Xbox. But there are plenty of inexpensive ways of keeping your kids off their screens and still having fun, even within the four walls of your own home. Here’s Families’ guide to some fun bad weather day activities.
Make a cardboard town Get hold of a giant cardboard box or add lots of small ones together to make a town using large felt tips or paint. Let their imaginations run riot, and they can add cars and wooden/cardboard people to make it more realistic.
Set up an indoor treasure hunt
By Claire Winter
Have a kitchen disco My favourite thing to do on a rainy day is to have a party in the kitchen. Choose the most appropriate room in your house and sort a great playlist of music that will get the whole family moving. Have a ‘dance off’ with your kids.
Make a magazine Set up a news desk in the house and decide what the magazine is going to be about. Think up a great name and get someone in the “team” to design the front cover. Send out some roving reporters to write some news stories and create some fun features. The whole family can get involved!
Set up a racing track Use masking tape to create a huge car-racing track around the house or living room, create a second track alongside it and get the toy cars out and race away!
Write some cryptic clues and hide a treasure trail of items for them to find. They may want to design one for you to do too!
Get active
Make slime
You could make an indoor obstacle course or try hula hooping or skipping in the living room. To make it more interesting, do some timed challenges. You could also create indoor hopscotch with masking tape.
Batten down the hatches, get the aprons out and be prepared for a tsunami of a mess in your kitchen. This activity is satisfyingly messy and great fun. Get your children to research how to make the best slime or play-doh on YouTube (it’s for educational purposes after all).
Get cooking If you aren’t keen on the slime idea, get the kids to cook you a meal instead. This is satisfying for them but also a treat for you (hopefully!). Suggest they plan a three-course meal for dinner. Get them to design a menu and research how to make the dishes online or refer to some recipe books. I think getting them to look in the fridge and come up with some dishes with ingredients you already have teaches them a great a life skill too. A pasta sauce or an apple crumble are tasty, rewarding but simple dishes to make. If you have smaller children baking something simple like fairy cakes or biscuits would obviously be more appropriate.
Try balloon ping pong or table tennis Blow up some balloons and use some table tennis bats or make your own with some sticks and paper plates. Alternatively, if you have a table tennis set, drag out the dining table, set up the net and hold a tournament. Hours of fun!
Play cards Teach the kids the card games you used to play as a child. If you can’t get them interested in Patience or snap, look up some cool card tricks for them to learn and show their friends.
Make special cards
© Cressida Cowell and Neal Layton
Get out the art supplies and card and make some Christmas and birthday cards. Why don’t you get creative with Origami? My kids love making butterflies and birds and sticking them onto cards.
FRO WRI M THE TE HOW R OF T TRA IIN N YOO U DRA GON R
MON 17 DEC - SUN 6 JAN
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Education
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Equipping our children for a digital future By Casey Farquharson Analysts Gartner have predicted that £19bn will be spent globally on educational technology by 2019. But are we sure that this will make our children better prepared to succeed in the future? Will they possess the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digitalised world? Coding is a key tech skill which can help prepare our children for the future. Yet, according to an article in The Guardian, over 67% of primary and secondary school teachers believe they cannot teach coding because of a lack of 'skills and teaching tools.’ Many schools simply don't have personnel with the required skills and understanding to teach pupils how to code. There is an urgent need for more investment in the education sector to train teachers to code; to attract more individuals to learn and teach coding; and to equip schools, both secondary and primary, with the necessary hardware However, it isn’t all about technology. Yes, we want our children to have good tech and digital skills, but character, creativity, and social skills are also vital. No matter how digitalised the world becomes, these three attributes of success cannot be compromised.
The components of character are courage, determination, the audacity to be different, focus, and the ability to ask questions and make one’s own decisions. With creativity comes problem solving skills, innovation, critical thinking, and the ability to think outside the box. Rapport and relationship building, the ability to effectively express oneself both orally and in writing, confidence and collaboration are key components of social skills.
Academic Scholarships are available to children joining the school in Years 3 to 6. Please contact the school for details of the application process. Norfolk House School is a leading independent school for children aged 3 to 11 4 Norfolk Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3PS | Tel: 0121 454 7021 Email: info@norfolkhouseschool.co.uk| www.norfolkhouseschool.co.uk
10 Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield
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Education
@familiesbirm
Plying our children with tablets and other forms of tech hardware is most deďŹ nitely not a sure-proof way to ensure they have these attributes. The point here is not that tablets are bad or not useful, but that they should never be utilised as a be-all and end-all. Technology should not be a foundation of learning, but rather an enabler and a catalyst. There are seven learning styles* that need to be understood and embraced if our primary-age children are to get the most from their technology learning experiences: Aural Listeners – individuals that respond primarily to sound. Technology can be utilized to effectively engage with such individuals via the use of podcasts and audio teaching tools. Logical learners – individuals with logical and organized minds. Mind mapping technology can be effectively utilized to improve their learning experience. Physical learners – individuals who respond to words that incite feeling and activity. They like to understand what it feels like to go through the motions of what they are learning. Virtual reality technology can be utilized to optimize their learning experience.
comes to education lies in technology being utilised in a supportive capacity, as against a leading one. If we want our children to succeed in the future, then we must protect their emotional and psychological wellbeing. It is time to take responsibility for educating children, not only on the distinct dangers of the digital world but also on the importance of the true foundations of positive self-esteem. In order for our children to prosper in the future it is absolutely vital that we improve and preserve their emotional well-being – and appropriate technology training and learning scenarios can play a part in that education. *Source: www.educationdegree.com
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Casey Farquharson is the founder of IDEAS Bus, an interactive educational platform (on wheels!) designed to help educators discover the latest cutting-edge learning technology and students to get hands on coding, tech and digital media experience. More info at www.theideasbus.org.uk
Social learners – Individuals that respond to teachers who are inquisitive and ask what they are thinking and feeling about key topics and concepts. Search engines such Google, Google assistant and Siri can be utilised to maximise their learning experience.
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Solitary listeners – individuals that are more comfortable sorting out problems on their own. Videos, online tutorials and audio learning can be utilized to optimize their learning experience. Verbal listeners – individuals who absorb information more effectively via verbal instruction. Innovative technology such as Siri, Cortana and Ok Google can be utilized to teach such individuals. Visual learners – individuals that learn more effectively with pictures and imagery. Tablets and virtual reality technology can be utilized to optimize their learning experience. It’s clear from the above that technology has the potential to be an effective enabler of speciďŹ c and overall learning experiences. However, the key to its sustained effectiveness when it
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Parenting
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Working from home: The pros and cons So you want to work from home? For many parents the chance to work from home on a regular basis is the Holy Grail. Not only does it cut down on endless hours spent commuting and travel bills, but it means you are around for your family in case of an emergency. Yet working from home isn’t for everyone. If you’re in a sector where working from home is possible or you are considering freelancing or running your own business from home, you need to be honest with yourself about whether the pros outweigh the potential cons. Ask yourself some questions. Do you work best as part of a team, bouncing ideas off each other? It is possible to exchange ideas with people via Instant Messenger and technology is enabling people who work remotely to have virtual colleagues in their home office, but if face to face contact is important to you, then you might ďŹ nd working from home a struggle. You may be able to mitigate this, of course, through creating or joining a local business network or ensuring you get out regularly to meetings or other events - or even just to walk the dog! The advantages of working from home are signiďŹ cant. In addition to those mentioned above, the wellbeing of most parents would be enhanced by not having to deal with rush hour traffic or train delays and the anxiety of not getting to school or nursery pick up on time. One of the worst nightmares for many parents
are the days when their child wakes up sick and they have to frantically ring round friends and family to get cover while they go to an important meeting. Not having to deal with this can hugely lower stress levels. Once you have decided if homeworking is for you, you need to consider what you need to work successfully from home.
Try to have a separate work space It is good, if possible, to draw a line between home and work so you can close the door on work both mentally and physically at the end of the day. Having a separate space - a room, an outdoor building etc - creates the sense of ‘going to work’. It also means that your work papers are kept separate and away from small hands! Alternatively, if you don't have a separate space, you can still create the feeling of going to work by walking round the block before you start work. You may, of course, need to go out to drop off children in any event before you start your working day.
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12 Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton ColdďŹ eld
The basics are likely to be a computer, good phone, WiďŹ connectivity and a printer. Bear in mind that you are likely to have very little technical support so it is vital to have a back-up if the computer stops working and a solution if the internet goes down, for instance, a local library or nearby cafe with WiďŹ .
Create a routine Some people like to do the difficult calls or tasks early in the day to get them out of the way and to kick start the day. Take regular breaks, do some exercise and get out and see people. Let people know your working hours and let
neighbours and family know you are working and not lounging about at home.
Get good childcare Employers may stipulate childcare if you are working from home. In any event, it is very stressful trying to work from home with small children, particularly if they don't have regular sleep patterns. If you are working from home while other colleagues are in the office, ensure that you are visible by attending selected social events and meetings and keeping up with people in the office as much as possible.
Co-working space If you are not sure about homeworking, but need to work closer to home, you could consider using a co-working space or creating your own local hub with other homeworkers in your area. Alternatively, you could consider homeworking for part of the week to get the best of both worlds. As with everything, it’s advisable to know yourself and approach different ways of working with your eyes as open as possible. Sometimes though, it takes a bit of experimentation to know what works best for you. Compromises may be involved. Ultimately, it is only you who can judge what is best for your family’s circumstances - and, of course, as with all things parenting, those circumstances may change with time...! Mandy Garner is Editor of
Workingmums.co.uk Workingmums.co.uk advertises homeworking opportunities and offers tons of advice on how to set up your own business and different ways of working, including case studies in a variety of sectors.
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Parenting
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Supporting your child with friendship challenges By Lianna Champ
Life and relationships are not always easy and we learn our skills as children, watching the interactions of our parents and other adults in our lives. What we learn as children then sets our patterns of relating in adulthood. Falling out with friends is normal during childhood and it is through struggling with friendship challenges that our children learn about themselves, relationships and how best to interact with others. Through experience, children also learn how to set boundaries - what they will or will not accept in a friendship. We cannot make these decisions for our children but we can guide them gently and encourage them to use their instinct, intuition and intellect.
The most important thing we can do when our children are struggling with friendship issues is to listen. Falling out with their friends can feel like the worse thing in the world. Saying anything negative about their friends at this point will only cause your child to withdraw and can create further emotional confusion for them. Gently encouraging your child to talk about their feelings can help to identify areas of conflict, disagreement or unfairness which may have led to the fall out.
understand things like empathy and mutual respect, and they have better problem-solving skills. So above all, nurture your own relationship with your children and others in your family. Lianna Champ has over 40 years’ experience in bereavement and grief recovery. Her new book How to Grieve Like a Champ is out now priced £9.99.More information at www.champfunerals.com
Studies show that children who have healthy relationships with the adults in their lives are more likely to make sound decisions about friendship, because they
Give your child the opportunity to experience nursery life with Seesaws excellent childcare, up to date facilities, and experienced professional staff
OPEN WEEK Mon 5th - Fri 9th November A range of Childcare packages to suit busy parents' needs, fully funded places, session and hourly rates. Flexible packages for mums returning to work Open 52 weeks of the year pay for only 50 weeks 2 & 3 year old nursery education grant available for free 30 hours Secure and independent baby suites designed to care for the individual needs of each baby Pre and After School and Holiday Clubs 4 - 12 years available NHS Discount available Excellent Ofsted reports FOR MORE INFORMATION RING OUR NURSERY MANAGERS: Ring Jayne on 0121 350 6521
1 Avenue Road, Erdington, B23 6UY
Ring Katie on 0121 351 7000
30 Walmley Ash Road, Walmley, B76 1JA
Ring Sandra on 0121 384 5494
635 Chester Rd, Wylde Green, B73 5HY
www.seesawsdaynurseries.com familiesonline.co.uk
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Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield 13
Clubs & Classes Solihuull YYoounng Dancers Ballett & T Ta ap p Lessons Classes from agge 2 ½ + Tel: Kate on 077722 732678 www.solihullyoungdanceers.co.uk
DUBARRIE SCHOOL OF DANCE Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 ½ + Branches in Yardley and Solihull Telephone: 0121 744 1422 www.dubarrieschoolofdance.com
To advertise email: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk
babyballet® dance classes allow babies, toddlers and young children to enjoy the physical and social benefits of ballet, song and dance in a safe, caring, positive and informal environment. With a real focus on learning through play, the unique, multi-award winning babyballet® syllabus offers four key stages of ballet and tap classes. Classes are for children from 6 months to school age with three classes available: Tots (6-18mths), Tinies (18mths - 3yrs), Movers (3-5 yrs) and the ever popular Tappers class can be attended from the age of 3. Miss Laura has classes running Mon-Sat in Hinckley, Knowle & Solihull at just £5.
MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE Youth Theatre Group, Age 5+ Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA Telephone: 0121 722 3761 www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com
Drama & Imaginative Play Classes for children up to 7 yrs! Classes held in Sutton Coldfield & Surrounding Areas Tel: 0121 314 2272 www.pyjamadrama.com helenb@pyjamadrama.com
Diamond Swim Academy Diamond Swim Academy runs a Swim England Learn to swim Programme for children aged 2.5 years upwards. From the very beginners learning to swim right up to stage 10 and ready for club swimming. Our lessons have small classes with only 6 per class and ten minute gaps to allow you to communicate with teachers and to ensure they swim for the 30 minutes. We run from 3 venues: Archbishop Ilsley, Acocks Green; Moseley Road Baths, Balsall Common; The Blue Coat School, Harbone. FOR MORE INFO CONTACT info@diamondswimacademy.co.uk 07756 088617 www.diamondswimacademy.co.uk
If you would like to see how you and your little star would enjoy the classes, a three week trial is only £15 and you can book via the babyballet® website. www.babyballet.co.uk. Should you have any questions please contact us at hinckleyandburbage@babyballet.co.uk | m.me/BabyballetHinckleyBurbageandKnowle | 07941 342707
Bach to Baby Family Concerts Discover classical music with your children at our family-friendly concerts! Image by Alejandro Tamagno Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top-notch performances by outstanding musicians with your young babes in tow. Bach to Baby launched in Birmingham in spring 2018 and now runs monthly concerts in Sutton Coldfield, Bournville and Solihull. Online booking is simple and flexible - plus ALL children attend for free! No concert is complete without feeding, crying and nappy changing! FOR 10% OFF TICKETS IN BIRMINGHAM, USE CODE BRUM10 ONLINE - Ends 30.11.18
www.bachtobaby.com | info@bachtobaby.com
A Fusion of Music and Dance 2019 DMS Heart of England Music Academy celebrates 34 years of music education next year having taught 100s of pupils, achieved exceptionally high results in examinations and propelled students into the music industry. Every 18 months DMS’ principal Leigh Perry produces the schools concert 'A Fusion of Music and Dance' held at the prestigious Symphony Hall with over 300 students and teachers from DMS plus dance schools, choirs and a glittering array of celebrity guest artistes bringing an eclectic mix to the stage with rock, pop and classical music to suit all tastes.
Need help with your child’s academic studies? We can help support you with 1 to 1 or group tuition for 11+, SATs, GCSE, and A-level preparation. 07857 929188 www.inspire-tutoring.com info@inspire-tutoring.com
Next year’s concert is being held on Sunday 7th April and sees 'the best line-up to date' with Motown Legend Angelo Starr, award-winning band Soul Kinda Wonderful, opera star Faith Tucker from BBC1’s ‘Let it Shine’ Kyle Passmore, local singer as seen on The Voice, Karl Loxley from Kampala, the children's choir Destiny Africa, and DMS’ patron and rock legend Bev Bevan! The concert brand has raised over £12,000 for charity since it began in 2007 and next year will be supporting Sepsis UK and Sukis Canine Rescue Crew A coach will be going from Knowle. Tickets available NOW! £13.50/£16/£19 from DMS; T: 01564 772831; E: dorridgemusicschool@hotmail.com | www.dmsfusionlive.com Why not get involved? For information about the extensive range of music lessons on offer take a look at www.dorridgemusicschool.com or email the school.
14 Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield
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Christmas Activites
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Magical Christmas Markets Christmas Markets are a lovely way to get the family out into the fresh cold air of winter to enjoy a warm, magical atmosphere. Here are some Christmas markets and fairs, near and a little further away: Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market The largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany or Austria has become one of the firm pride and joys of a Birmingham Christmas. 15 Nov – 23 Dec, www.germanchristmasmarketbirmingham.com
Lichfield Christmas Market Ice rink, fair rides, indoor heated seating, and seasonal refreshments. 14 Dec – 4 Jan, www.lichfieldwinterwonderland.co.uk
National Trust Christmas Fairs and Markets across the Midlands, include: Tattershall Castle, Lincolnshire (17 – 18 Nov); Berrington Hall, Herefordshire (weekends only, 17 Nov – 1 Jan); Worcester Christmas Market (29 Nov – 2 Dec). www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Other smaller Christmas Markets can be found in: Solihull High St (Sat 10 Nov); Blackheath (17 Nov); Halesowen (17 Nov); Tamworth Racecourse (18 Nov); Tipton (30 Nov); Wednesbury (30 Nov); Cradley Heath (1 Dec); Sedgley (2 Dec); Coseley (7 Dec). Stalls usually include seasonal gifts, refreshments, decorations and local produce. www.familiesonline.co.uk
Christmas in Winchester: Markets, shopping and shows If you fancy taking the family to experience a seasonal market a little further afield this year, Winchester, dubbed ‘England’s Christmas Capital’, is well worth the visit. From mid-November, this ancient city will shine brightly with colourful lights and come to life with fun family activities throughout the festive period.
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market and Ice Rink Wonderful gifts, decorations and festive food and drink make this Christmas market one of the best in Europe. Visitors will see a giant Christmas tree and an ice rink to fill skaters of all ages with festive cheer.
Christmas at Marwell Zoo Go along to wish ‘Season’s Greetings’ to all the animals, from ring-tailed lemurs to pygmy hippos and more. Meet the elves and receive a special gift from Father Christmas. www.marwell.org.uk/zoo
Winchester Cathedral
Marwell Zoo
Theatre Royal’s Christmas Classics, Shows and Pantomimes Celebrate the delights of Christmas with a full line-up of family entertainment. www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk
Winchester Science Centre
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You’ll also find Christmas Rooftop Tours, Winchester Discovery Centre’s production of ‘Footprints in the Snow’, Father Christmas in Winchester’s historic Great Hall, Winchester Science Centre and much more.
For an overview of Christmas events in Winchester go to: www.visitwinchester.co.uk
Where to stay Holiday Inn Winchester - this awardwinning contemporary 4-star hotel is located within five minutes from the city centre making it the perfect base for visiting Winchester for Christmas festivities. www.hiwinchester.co.uk Events take place 17 Nov – 24 Dec. Check websites for details.
Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield 15
Santa Trail
To advertise call: 07807 352087
Where to find Santa this Christmas He’s made his list, he’s checked it twice, and he’s on his way to town to visit all the good girls and boys this happy season! Here are the best places to find Santa:
the occasion with a special printed photograph of their visit with Santa. Pre-booking is strongly advised. Weekends 1 Dec - 23 Dec, £5.00 (per child)
Enchanted Christmas Kingdom, Hatton Adventure World www.hattonworld.com
Christmas at Blithbury Lodge www.blithburyreindeerlodge.co.uk
Ho Ho Ho boys and girls …… It’s that special time of year when Rudolph and the other reindeers will be flying Santa into Hatton’s enchanted Christmas very soon. Be sure to take part in all the festive Hatton activities – The Christmas Magician; Festive Fun Fair Rides; Gingerbread Decorating with Mrs Claus; Reindeer Quest; Make your own Reindeer Food… and much more. Every weekend from 24 Nov – 16 Dec, PLUS every day 17– 24 Dec, from £7.95
Drayton’s Magical Christmas www.draytonmanor.co.uk Book early to enjoy a magical Christmas at Drayton Manor. You will be welcomed into snowy Thomas Land with over 25 rides, live shows, meet Father Christmas and his helpers in the Castle of Dreams, enjoy a look around the zoo, and each day ends with a fireworks display. Open on select dates between 17 Nov – 31 Dec, from £14
Santa’s Winter Wonderland, SnowDome Tamworth www.snowdome.co.uk Santa's back for the 14th year... Santa's Winter Wonderland at the SnowDome continues to welcome families for a wonderfully snowy Christmas event. Come along and try out Santa's Christmas Snow Trail, see the All New Santa Show, and get close to Santa’s real reindeer. 16 Nov – 31 Dec, from £13.95
Santa's Grotto, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/bmag Make your museum visit extra special by popping along to BMAG’s festive family grotto this Christmas. Based in the heart of the museum, their glittering grotto will get children and families in the festive spirit with everything from twinkling lights, piles of snow and of course...Santa! Every child will receive a gift and a unique memento of
16 Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield
Meet and feed the beautiful herd of reindeer, visit Father Christmas in his traditional Scandinavian style Grotto, explore the soft play area and be entertained by the singing reindeer. Additional activities are also available, so book to go along and find out what there is on offer. Every weekend from 17 Nov – 9 Dec, PLUS every day 15– 23 Dec, entry £17/£23
Meet Santa, National Sealife Centre Birmingham www.visitsealife.com/birmingham Discover how the staff at Sealife Centre make sure all of their creatures have a very Merry Fish-mas, meet Santa and get a FREE gift from the man himself. All included within the admission ticket. It's the perfect festive experience this holiday season! Meet Santa included with all entry tickets 24 Nov - 23 Dec, from £13
Santa Safari, West Midlands Safari Park www.wmsp.co.uk Treat your children to an enchanting and festive day out they’ll never forget. Take a 4 mile self-drive Safari and visit Santa in a inimitable experience! Weekends from 17 Nov, then daily from 1 – 24 Dec
Santa’s Grotto, Dudley Zoological Gardens www.dudleyzoo.org.uk Dudley Zoo’s Winter Wonderland package, running from Dec 1 to Christmas Eve, includes a visit to see Santa in his grotto set within the walls of 11th century Dudley Castle. You can also see Santa’s Reindeer as they prepare for their busiest night of the year. The Christmas package includes admission to DZG. 1 – 24 Dec, from £4.50
Santa Hunts, Black Country Living Museum www.bclm.co.uk BCLM’s highly popular Santa Hunts are back for another year! Children and adults will love the fun-filled search for Santa alongside the Museum's festive costumed guide. You’ll meet a series of characters along the way, solving enchanting clues, sprinkle "magic dust" on reindeer shoes and even send letters up the chimney to Santa's workshop. When Santa's hideout has been found perhaps he’ll have a gift waiting! Weekends from 24 Nov, then daily from 19 – 24 Dec
Victorian Christmas Weekends, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge www.ironbridge.org.uk Revel in 1800s style celebrations and entertainment and meet Father Christmas in his Grotto! Visit the Town decorated for Christmas, see Father Christmas in his Grotto and meet his reindeer, hear about Victorian Christmas traditions, listen to carol singers and brass bands, and much more. 8, 9, 15, 16 Dec, from £10.90
Santa at Blakesley Hall www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/blakesley Go along to meet Santa in the Great Hall and see Blakesley dressed for Christmas! Make a Christmas card to take home and write a letter to Santa. All children receive a small present when meeting Santa! 15 & 16 Dec, £7; £5; £3
Christmas/grotto events also usually run in the following venues: Fort Shopping Park: www.thefort.co.uk Gracechurch Shopping Centre: www.gracechurchcentre.com Ryemarket Shopping Centre: www.ryemarketshoppingcentre.co.uk Keep an eye on the websites for details
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Entertainment
Quote FAMILIES BIRMINGHAM when booking!
Christmas Theatre Rudolf and Sleepyhead Midlands Arts Centre, Birmingham There will be two magical shows this Christmas at the MAC. Rudolf, 17 Nov-31 Dec. For children aged 4+ this fab festive treat from Pins & Needles Theatre is full of puppetry, laughter and mischief, telling the tale of Rudolf and her adventures as she learns that being different can be very special indeed. The rednosed reindeer can’t fly, gets lost all the time and her bright red nose keeps everyone awake at night! No matter how hard she tries, she can’t get on to Father Christmas’ sleigh-pulling team. But when disaster strikes, it’s good old Rudi to the rescue to save Christmas for everyone! Sleepyhead, 20 Nov-2 Dec. This is a lovely tale from Little Angel Theatre full of the magic and wonder of Christmas Eve for children aged 2-5. www.macbirmingham.co.uk, 0121 446 3232
Pinocchio Old Rep Theatre, 17 Nov - 30 Dec The magic of Old Rep Theatre is bringing Pinocchio to life this Christmas! Join Pinocchio and his trusty Cricket companion on a journey of mischief and chaos, through the depths of the ocean and the Land of Toys, to discover what it takes to become a real live boy. www.oldreptheatre.co.uk, 0121 359 9444
The Wizard of Oz Birmingham Repertory Theatre, 24 Nov – 13 Jan Delighting generations, The Wizard Of Oz is one of the most popular tales of all time and this spectacular production features your favourite songs and characters from the classic film with an added sprinkle of Rep magic. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk, 0121 236 4455
on their swashbuckling adventures to Neverland. There is a star-studded line-up, including Hippodrome favourite Mr Matt Slack. www.birminghamhippodrome.com, 0844 338 5000
Elf – A Christmas Spectacular Genting Arena (Resorts World Arena), 20 - 24 Dec Elf, based on the Hollywood blockbuster movie, is to be supersized into a spectacular Christmas production this December. Starring David Essex and Martine McCutcheon. www.gentingarena.co.uk, 0844 33 88 222
Santa in Love The Core Theatre Studio, Fri 21 - Mon 24 Dec Maybe you’d like to know where the fairy on top of the Christmas tree comes from, or why you never see a Christmas elf? You’ll never guess, so come and see Santa in Love complete with games, giggles and your favourite Christmas songs. www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962
The Snowman 2019 Birmingham Repertory Theatre, 16 Jan - 26 Jan When a young boy's snowman comes to life on Christmas Eve, the two set off on a night-time quest for adventure. Come and be a part of the magic. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk, 0121 236 4455
FAMILY Y FAVOURITES THIS FESTIVE SEASON
Cinderella Blue Orange Theatre, 4 – 8 Dec
24 NOV – 13 JAN
Join Cinderella on the adventure of her life as she meets her Fairy Godmother and falls in love with the handsome Prince of her dreams. Come ready to boo and hiss the evil step-sisters, and sing, dance and laugh with Buttons. www.blueorangetheatre.co.uk, 0121 212 2643
Alice In Wonderland Crescent Theatre, 4 - 15 Dec in the Main House As Alice tries to make her way through the mad, upside-down world of Wonderland, assisted by a host of colourful and incredible characters, things become “curiouser and curiouser!”. www.crescent-theatre.co.uk, 0121 643 5858
Beauty and the Beast Sutton Coldfield Town Hall, 11 – 31 Dec
By L. L Frank Baum
Follow the yellow brick road for the ultimate family adventure this Christmas
Sutton Coldfield Town Hall’s fabulous production team are bringing you this sparkling pantomime this Christmas. Go along to see a wonderful story with wonderful music, wonderful design, wonderful dancing …and some truly terrible jokes! Don’t miss it! www.townhallsuttoncoldfield.co.uk, 0121 296 9543
16 – 26 JAN
Sleeping Beauty - The Pantomime of Your Dreams The Core Theatre, 14 Dec – 6 Jan Inside Bromwich Castle the royal family are preparing for the christening of their baby daughter, Princess Rose. Beauty’s family get more than they bargained for when a wicked fairy, a thorn in their side, hears of the celebrations and sets out to ruin their happiness. www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962
Tall Stories: Emily Brown and the Thing Birmingham Hippodrome (Patrick Studio), 17 Dec - 6 Jan One winter’s evening, Emily Brown and her old grey rabbit Stanley hear a Thing crying outside their window. What’s really troubling the Thing – and will anyone ever get to sleep? Find out in this magical, musical show. www.birminghamhippodrome.com
Celebrating 25 years live on stage, don’t miss this family favourite
BOOK NOW 0121 236 4455 BIRMIINGHAM-REP.CO.UK
Peter Pan Birmingham Hippodrome, 19 Dec - 27 Jan This Christmas Birmingham Hippodrome invites us to join Peter Pan and the Lost Boys familiesonline.co.uk
birminghammrep
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@therepbirmingham
Registered in England 295910 Charit y No.2236 6 0
Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield 17
What’s on
Quote FAMILIES BIRMINGHAM when booking!
Monski Mouse's Baby Disco Dance Hall– Christmas Special Town Hall Birmingham, 15 – 22 Dec
ENTERTAINMENT FUN DMC – The Daytime Block Party for Kids (and parents), Town Hall Birmingham, 10 Nov Whether you’re the proud parent of a mini Lil Wayne, Missy Elliot or a whole crew of Beastie Boys and Wee Papa Girls Rappers, this is the jam for you and your little ones. www.thsh.co.uk, 0121 780 3333
The Snowman and Paddington's First Concert, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, 17 Nov Enjoy the magic of a Christmas classic and a beloved bear at this gorgeous production by Busy Parents Network, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and Flatpack with live orchestral music. www.bcu.ac.uk/concerts, 0121 331 5901
Bach to Baby Family Concerts For 10% OFF tickets in Birmingham use code BRUM10 online - ends 30.11.18 Solihull Methodist Church Sat 17 Nov, 11am Festive Special: Sat 1 Dec, 11am Holy Trinity Parish Church, Sutton Coldfield Festive Specials: Fri 23 Nov 11am & Fri 14 Dec 11am
Join DJ-mumma Monski Mouse and her dancers for a morning of family fun at Town Hall www.thsh.co.uk, 0121 780 3333
The Tiger Who Came for Tea Live! Town Hall Birmingham 26 Dec – 13 Jan The tea-guzzling tiger is the star of this show; packed with oodles of magic, singa-long songs and clumsy chaos! www.thsh.co.uk, 0121 780 3333
OUT & ABOUT
Down in the woods this November... Learn about hedgehogs and how to make a winter hideaway at home. Make a natural hedgehog Christmas tree decoration. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/moseley-old-hall
The Core Theatre Christmas Needle Felting 10 Nov, 2pm - 4pm
Black Country Living Museum Christmas in the Home 24 Nov – 24 Dec (on selected days)
Entry included in ticket price Celebrate Christmas at the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter! Enjoy costumed guided tours, live music and a winter jewellery fair. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/jewellery
Step inside a festively decorated Victorian house and take in the sights and smells of Yuletide over a century ago. www.bclm.co.uk
Midlands Art Centre Indie Kids Christmas Disco Sun 9 Dec, 3pm
CBSO Centre - Music Maze (8-11), and ZigZag Ensemble (12-16) Sun 25 Nov, 10am – 2.30pm
The festive edition of the Indie Kids Disco! For Indie Kids and their kids to rock together to tunes that’ll make you want to live forever! www.macbirmingham.co.uk
FREE - Suggested donation, £6 Children of all musical abilities, get the priceless experience of creating original pieces alongside BCMG’s world class musicians. Pre-booking essential. bcmg.org.uk/whats-on
Aston Hall Festive Tours 12 - 13 Dec, 1pm - 2pm
The Birmingham International Tattoo, Arena Birmingham 24 & 25 Nov
The Core Theatre Saturday Art Club Sats 10 Nov - 15 Dec
At Britain’s largest indoor tattoo you will see marching bands, exciting displays and the spectacular Grand Finale. A three hour family event you’ll all remember forever. www.birminghamtattoo.co.uk, www.arenabham.co.uk, 0844 33 88 222
Saturday art club in the Courtyard Gallery for ages 8-14 years is provided by Art at the Heart. www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk
Home Alone in Concert, Symphony Hall, Birmingham, 3 Dec This wonderful, timeless, Christmas comedy classic features renowned composer John Williams' charming and delightful score performed live to picture by a full orchestra. www.thsh.co.uk, 0121 780 3333
Notelets: Christmas Crackers, CBSO Centre, 14 – 15 Dec If you like to march around and dance, this special toddler-friendly Christmas concert at CBSO Centre is perfect for you! FREE craft activities take place from an hour before each concert. www.cbso.co.uk, 0121 780 3333
Blakesley Hall Tudor Christmas Every Weds & Thurs 5 Dec - 20 Dec
Terrace | FREE | All ages Have your photo taken with Rudolf’s reallife friends who’ll be in a special petting area on the MAC terrace from 10am-2pm. Handlers from The Reindeer Whisperer will also be on hand to answer any reindeerrelated questions! www.macbirmingham.co.uk
By joining wool fibres together using a felting needle, you can create beautiful handmade decorations that will add that unique handmade touch to your Christmas. Age 10+ advised. www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk
Experience Star Wars: A New Hope with a live symphonic orchestra in a way you have never been able to before! www.arenabham.co.uk, 0844 33 88 222
A magical ‘make and explore’ lead up to Christmas for all the family in the Gardens. There’s hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows around the firepit too. www.castlebromwichhallgardens.org.uk
Birmingham Botanical Gardens Magical Lantern Festival 2018 23 Nov – 1 Jan (selected days) This year’s Christmas themed Lantern Festival will illuminate the gardens turning it into a spectacular fusion of dual culture, vibrant colours and artistic sculptures. Prepare to enter a magical experience and discover life-sized and large-than-life lanterns in all shapes and forms. www.magicallanterns.uk
Midlands Art Centre Meet Rudolf's Real-Life Reindeer Friends, 10 Nov, 10am - 2pm
Friends Meeting House, Bournville Festive Specials: Wed 28 Nov 11am & Wed 19 Dec 11am Discover classical music with your children at these family-friendly concerts! www.bachtobaby.com
STAR WARS: A New Hope – Film with Live Orchestra Arena Birmingham 2 Dec
Moseley Old Hall, Staffs If you go down to the woods today... 17 & 18 Nov
Christmas at Birmingham Cathedral 15 Nov – 22 Dec St Philip's Cathedral will be hosting a full programme of events to celebrate Advent and Christmas. The market will also be home to one of the largest Christmas trees in the city. www.birmingham.gov.uk
Midlands Art Centre Family Pottery: Hansel & Gretel Candy House, 17 Nov 10am – 3pm | £32 | 6 – 11 yrs +PG Don’t lose your way, follow the breadcrumbs to MAC and make pottery candy houses from the Grimm Fairytale, Hansel & Gretel. www.macbirmingham.co.uk
18 Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield
Museum of the Jewellery Quarter Christmas Celebrations 8 Dec, 12pm - 4pm
Entry included in ticket price. Join a guided tour during this festive season. See how they’ve decked the Hall and learn a bit about Christmas in the past. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston
Aston Hall What the Dickens! Christmas at Aston Hall 16 Dec, 2pm - 7.30pm £12; £6 Aston Hall is being visited by the Ghost of Christmas Past! Meet your favourite Charles Dicken’s characters, and join in the Victorian festivities. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston
Big wheel and ice rink, Birmingham 15 Nov – 27 Jan (closed Christmas Day) The venue for these popular attractions looks set to be in a new temporary location close to Grand Central, New Street Station, Birmingham Bullring and Hippodrome. Check website for updates. www.iceskatebirmingham.co.uk
Entry included in ticket price Special guided tours of Blakesley Hall exploring Christmas in the time of the Tudors. Fun Christmas activities are included as part of the tour. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/blakesley
Selly Manor Museum The Christmas Story Unwrapped 1 Dec, 12 pm & 5pm The Christmas story will be brought to life in an interactive walk-through that welcomes both adults and children alike. Booking essential. www.sellymanormuseum.org.uk
Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens Stars and Shadows… Christmas Lantern Festival in the Gardens 1 & 8 Dec, 12.30pm – 4.30pm
ALWAYS CHECK THE VENUE’S WEBSITE IN CASE OF CHANGES TO SCHEDULE.
MORE
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Accepting students throughout the year Ages 9 - 18
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