Families Hampshire West Magazine

Issue 55: November/ December 2016

FREE

Pick m

e up

®

Personalise your child’s party Christmas guide to what’s on How to keep your energy levels up during the winter

Fareham Swim School Bringing swimming lessons to the High Street

New pool opening Jan 2017 in West Street Fareham, booking lines now open

Small class sizes max 4:1 | Beautifully warm pools Teacher in the water | Specialist Baby & Preschool lessons After school swim club | Confidence building sessions 1:1 lessons available | Lessons running 7 days a week

November/ December 2016

To book your lessons for the New Year or to find out more, please get in touch

farehamswimschool.com

Tel: 01329 802208

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

SOUTHAMPTON’S FAVOURITE TRAMPOLINE PARK

IN NEED OF SOME WINTER FUN?

A Camphill, School, College and Children’s Home providing a theraputic environment inspired by Rudolf Steiner for children and young adults with severe, complex and moderate learning difficulties and disabilities

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

30% DISCOUNT

JUMP FOR

£7

USE CODE: FAMS30

Call Admissions on 01425 477488

ANTELOPE PARK, BURSLEDON ROAD, SOUTHAMPTON, SO19 8NE

BOOK NOW OXYGENFREEJUMPING.CO.UK BOOKING HOTLINE 0203 846 1386

www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk

OFJ Families (West Hampshire 1/4page)_Ad_AW_V2.indd 1

.

An independent co-educational school for ages 11-18.

.

Academic excellence.

.

Strong pastoral support.

.

Extensive range of co-curricular opportunities.

05/10/2016 11:01

.

Outstanding facilities.

.

Own bus service covering south Hampshire and Salisbury.

.

Financial assistance, scholarships and sports awards are available.

Wilton Road, Southampton SO15 5UQ T: 023 8079 9216 | E: registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Incorporating

2

Families Hampshire West

Stroud School, Romsey

www.stroud-kes.org.uk

King Edward VI Preparatory School

T: 01794 513231

www.familiesonline.co.uk

In this issue...

Editor Rebecca Carr 07789 882467 editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk Our next issue is published on 4th January 2017 and will include features on Childcare, Travel, Health, Tuition and Feb Half Term Activities plus our regular Education, clubs & classes, parties features. To include your business contact us by Friday 2 December.

4

News & views

5

Education and school news

6

Clubs & classes

8

Personalise your child’s party

9

Christmas activities

10

How to keep energy levels up during the winter

14

Winter warming Sweet potato & lentil curry

16

Edible Christmas gifts

18

What’s on in November & December

TREAT YOURSELF

TO THE PERFECT PAMPER EXPERIENCE

12th to 24th December

Why not get together with your friends for some fun, indulgence and the ultimate VIP shopping experience.

Tickets: £11 / £9 concessions

023 8065 2333 www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

Come and enjoy Exbury’s winter delight

The

Christmas

Postal Express

3th/4th 10th/11 , & 17th/1 th Decemb 8th er *

Tropic Skincare is a UK based, multi award-winning, freshly handmade skincare and make-up business. Our products are designed using the richest, most nutritious premium natural ingredients to ensure they are effective on all skin types, even the most sensitive. They are 100% naturally derived and free from: Parabens, harsh preservatives and harmful toxic chemicals.

Why not get your friends together this winter and have a Tropic Pamper Experience. As a party host you receive 15% of the total party sales to spend on products for FREE! A Perfect opportunity for some Christmas shopping.

NEW

product range now available

To discover more or to book a party contact: Rebecca Carr Independent Tropic Ambassador Call 07789882467, email: tropicwithrebecca@outlook.com or shop online: www.tropicskincare.co.uk/shop/rebeccacarr Join my group on Facebook - tropicskincarewithrebecca Free entry to the gardens, Father Christmas, an Elf Workshop, seasonal delights in our tea rooms and fabulous Christmas prizes to be won!

EXBURY GARDENS AND STEAM RAILWAY

Don’t miss out, come and join us. For more information please visit www.exbury.co.uk

Tropic Skin Care Ltd 0208 684 1551 I hello@tropicskincare.com www.tropicskincare.com

*Train rides £5 per person - cash only please

November/ December 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

3

News

Families news

& views Jump for £7 with Families this winter Get your winter jumper on at Oxygen Freejumping, Southampton’s favourite trampoline park and jump for just £7 no matter how cold it gets! Oxygen is giving Families West Hampshire readers an exclusive 30% saving on one hour Freejump tickets when bought online using code FAMS30.

That means that once Christmas has come around you can guarantee you and your family a merry bounce and enjoy the festive activities in the trampoline park for less! Visit Santa in his grotto, take part in colouring competitions and soak up the atmosphere whilst jumping almost as high Santa’s sleigh!

There’ll still be all the usual super-bouncing things to try in the trampoline park, including airborne dodgeball, giant inflatable airbag, squashy foam pit and lots more!

To book, visit oxygenfreejumping.co.uk, or call the bookings hotline on 0203 846 1386.

Use code FAMS30 to save 30%. The offer is valid until 31 December 2016.

To advertise in our next issue call 07789 882467 or email editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk The booking deadline is Friday 2 December

A ‘home from home’ at Chilly Powder Planning ahead for your next winter holiday?

Then Chilly Powder (www.chillypowder.com) is worth a look. Francesca, Paul and their 3 children - Ben, Eloise & Jamie Eyre - live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski holiday for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities.

Chilly Powder have been operating catered chalet ski holidays since 1996. The genuine ski to the door location of their 3 luxury catered ski chalets with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities sets them apart from other ski chalets in Morzine, France.

All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms, there is an outdoor hot tub, sauna and massage room and in-house childcare is provided in their own crèche. Their ski chalets are unique in Morzine for small or large groups or for individual families with children or babies. With excellent food, friendly staff and relaxing atmosphere of their chalets make it the perfect winter holiday destination. For many returning guests Chilly Powder it is considered a real home from home. Visit www.chillypowder. com for more information.

Give a personalised gift this year with Labels4Kids

Free publicity for your events with Families Online

They have a wide range of gifts with everything from personalised boot bags to personalised LEGO® keyrings. These gifts are guaranteed to be a success and are just as fun to give away as they are to receive!

You can also buy personalised adventure books from Paw Patrol, Disney Frozen and Spiderman. A name of your choice will be printed throughout the book and becomes part of an exciting adventure story.

To order yours, visit www.labels4kids.com/ fam or call 01786 473 508 today! All gifts are made to order so please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.

Great News, Families Online, which enjoyed a complete relaunch and rebrand earlier this year, now offers hyper local pages. Join your local area page to hear about local events and things to do, just on your door step.

Your local sites are Winchester Central, West Southampton, East Southampton and South West Hampshire (the New Forest).

You can now post your own events, fetes, fairs and other events for free.

Go to www.Familiesonline.com, and select Whats On. You can also get a free listing for your business. Its super easy and straight forward to do. Go to www.Familiesonline.com, select your local site and then go to the category of your choice in the menu.

HS TRC A M BOIOG IE TBALL PA T MBER

F

GIVE SOMEONE SPECIAL

A BIRTHDAY TO REME

L SPECIAR E OFF THE

FOR 12 KIDS OF 10 PRICE 0 er £24.0 Save ov KP1112 Quote

CALL TODAY! 02380 510 666

Email: southampton@goalsfootball.co.uk | Book Online: goalsfootball.co.uk Goals Southampton, Millbrook Point Road, Millbrook, Southampton SO15 0JZ

4

Families Hampshire West

Vintage inspired high quality knitwear for the modern day baby and toddler

www.etsy.com/shop/emilyandevelyn www.familiesonline.co.uk

Education

& school news

The Sixth Form at King Edward VI School in Southampton is more than just two years of academic study Whilst the school prides itself on outstanding examination results, the range of co-curricular opportunities available to students is vast.

During this summer alone, groups travelled as far afield as Ecuador, Indonesia and The Galapagos Islands on biology field work expeditions, Sri Lanka on a sports tour and to Cape Town, South Africa to carry out charity work with some of the community’s poorest children. Closer to home, another group of Sixth Formers provided an action-packed week long summer camp as respite to a group of young carers. All of these trips are the culmination of months and sometimes years of preparation and fund-raising.

To find out more about how you could be part of such an amazing Sixth Form experience then why not contact them about attending their forthcoming Sixth Form tea on Tuesday 6 December 2016 for prospective 16+ applicants.

For more information call 02380 799216, email: registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk or visit: www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Families education

Benefits of routines and rhythms for children and young people with SEND

Hampshire Collegiate School beyond expectations

For children and young people with Special Educational Needs, the concept of time can be very confusing. They easily get overwhelmed by small daily tasks and activities. By implementing a daily structure and a predictable routine, the world will become less chaotic and frightening. By embedding these concepts into meaningful routines and structures during the day, it can help them plan their day better. The structure can also include the use of calendars to learn about the passing of the week, or giving reassurance that certain events are due in the near future. Visual schedules and explaining with a ‘now’ and ‘next’ symbol helps them to understand about a routine and empowers them to have control over their life.

A more natural rhythm which can easily be linked to the concept of time is the change in nature, such as observing the change of seasons throughout the year. This can also be linked to seasonal festivals and events which enable children and young people with SEND to comprehend time in a more natural and organic way and, at the same time, develop a sense of time that is less mechanical than learning from a clock or a calendar.

The Sheiling Ringwood is based on the Hampshire Border, providing a therapeutic learning environment for students aged 6-25 who have a special educational need, specialising in autism and communication difficulties, severe and complex learning disabilities and challenging behaviour For more information call 01425 477488 or visit their website www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk

Hampshire Collegiate School pride themselves on being able to offer families a school that is both academically ambitious for their children and prepares them for life beyond school in a supportive, dynamic and extraordinary way. They offer education beyond expectations on both a curricular, co-curricular and pastoral level and their most recent ISI inspection report praised their ‘enthusiastic and passionate teaching’.

Set in a stunning 130-acre private park, formerly the home of Florence Nightingale, they provide an educational setting where children can learn and prepare themselves for the greatest adventure of all – life. They offer a rich co-curricular programme where pupils can regularly choose from over seventy activities – including falconry, chess, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, sailing, orchestra, dance, fishing, music technology, fencing, choir and cookery to name but a few.

Situated on the outskirts of the historic market town of Romsey,they operate a daily, tailored, home-school transport service for pupils, as well as the option to board or flexi-board, should they require it. Whether children are in their purpose-built Nursery and Prep school, Senior School or Sixth Form, they ensure an environment where all are valued as individuals and encourage academic ambition, creativity, enthusiasm, confidence and resilience.

To find out more about HCS call 01794 512206, email: info@hampshirecs.org.uk or visit www.hampshirecs.org.uk

Private Home Tutoring All academic subjects and key stages • 7/8/11+ • 13+/Common Entrance • GCSE/A level • University

0333 920 2458 www.fleet-tutors.co.uk

- Many sizes, width fittings and styles - Friendly and knowledgeable service - Onsite Workshop -

40 Bedford Place, Southampton, SO15 2DG www.wjfrenchandson.co.uk 023 8022 6542 November/ December 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

5

Families clubs & classes Find out more about music classes from Families Online: familiesonline.co.uk/ music

The benefits of learning a musical instrument Learning an instrument can have benefits for your child that you may not have considered. Discover the benefits that can be gained from your little musician learning to play their favourite instrument...

An improvement in social skills

Playing music is a great way to make friends. Not only are children who play instruments encouraged to join groups and orchestras at school but you’ll often find them getting together outside of school hours too.

They have improved motor skills

Creating notes from an instrument, whether it’s brass, woodwind, percussion or strings, helps a child fine-tune motor skills. Minute movements of the hands and fingers are believed to help create neurological pathways in the brain.

A confidence boost

There’s no doubt that a child who feels they can manage a task – such as performing a simple tune – is filled with confidence. As their skill improves and practice pays off, your child will see a huge confidence boost, which will help them to become a more self-assured as they grow.

Persistence is taught

Learning an instrument is a slow, sometimes arduous task and the traits that children must acquire are patience and the ability to practice.

They become creative and have a sense of achievement

Once a child has mastered making sounds from their instrument, they often begin to experiment. Although they may never be an improvisational genius, this leads to creativity, which in turn creates a sense of achievement.

AS SEEN ON

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS

Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 3244

southhants@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

Clubs & classes news

Fareham Swim School bringing swimming to the high street Fareham Swim School is pleased to announce that in January 2017 they will be opening a brand new pool on West Street in Fareham. They will be one of the first companies in the UK to bring swimming lessons to the high street, making swimming easier to access for today’s busy parents. With their new location being on West Street, they hope that swimming will easily fit in with the weekly shop or the school run.

With over 20 years of experience, Fareham Swim School aim to provide swimming lessons with a difference to all ages and abilities and are dedicated to teaching babies, preschoolers, children and adults to swim and enjoy the water with classes for all ages and abilities including the water phobic right through to technique refining and development available.

Based on many years of experience, they have developed a tried and tested unique teaching system that makes learning to swim easier and safer whilst teaching excellent swimming technique to all learners, whatever their ability or age. They believe small class sizes are the way forward, so will have a maximum of four pupils per class and only one class in the pool at any time, giving children lots of attention to work on learning to swim with confidence.

Their teachers are fully qualified to the highest level and CRB/DBS checked. Teachers are always in the water, giving your children the confidence to learn in a safe environment and their pools are clean and beautifully warmed to a minimum 32 degrees.

“Safety and fun are the key to our success and we want all children to be able to swim and to enjoy the water, giving them a skill for life” Fareham Swim School is a family run business with a real passion for swimming and their new facility is being built with families in mind, the new pool will have great changing facilities, a waiting area with tea and coffee available and a play corner to keep siblings occupied. Lessons are conducted in quiet surroundings, allowing any learner the peace to think and relax, which always leads to greater 10% off your concentration, water confidence and enjoyment.

Booking is now available, please call 01329 802 208 or info@farehamswimschool.com to find out more and to book your space.

Lessons available 7 days per week. Prices start at £11 per lesson. To book a trial lesson or have a chat, visit www.farehamswimschool.com

first booking for all Families readers, please quote families10 when you enquire.

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

6

Families Hampshire West

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families Clubs & classes

The Performing Arts Academy provides outstanding dance tuition

The PAA welcome motivated students who have a dream to perform. Set in a friendly and safe environment, children develop their character, and stretch their imaginations. Their classes in singing, dancing and acting will improve confidence, performance skills and develop talent. They pride themselves in offering students outstanding tuition as each different subject will be taught by specialist teachers who have trained at some of the nation’s most prestigious Performing Arts institutions.For more information call Stacey on 07930980038 or visit www.tpaacademy.co.uk

For a comprehensive guide to clubs and classes in South West Hampshire visit our website Our online directory covers clubs and classes in Southampton, Winchester, The New Forest, Eastleigh, Romsey, Chandler’s Ford, Ringwood, Hedge End, West End, Burseldon, Hamble, Colden Common, Sutton Scotney, Fair Oak, Totton and all the areas inbetween.

Do you run clubs and classes? why not upload your own business for free! Or add a premium listing for just £15.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Babies are born to love music!

A major research study by the McMaster Institute in Canada found that babies who attend music classes with their parents smile more and communicate better. At the heart of Monkey Music is a high quality, progressive and educational music curriculum that supports every aspect of a young child’s development.

Monkey Music founder, Angie Coates, explains; “By captivating babies, toddlers with a winning combination of original and traditional songs, gentle dances, fascinating sounds, amazing instruments and colorful props, the children are so busy having fun that they don’t notice how much they’re learning!” Contact Paula on 01489 565443 or email winchester.fareham@monkeymusic.co.uk to book a complimentary class.

THE PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY PROVIDES TOP QUALITY PERFORMING ARTS EDUCATION TO CHILDREN AGED 4 - 16

SING

l

DANCE

l

ACT

We offer exceptional training for children and young adults in the performing arts.

Our classes in singing, dancing and acting will improve confidence, develop performance skills and encourage tallent.

To book a free taster session Call 07930980038 Email tpaacademy@hotmail.com www.tpaacademy.co.uk

November/ December 2016

OPEN DAY FREE TASTER SESSIONS E: winchester.fareham@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01489 565443 Fryern Pavilion S053 2LE, 10 Jan 9:30am & 10:30am St Anthony's Primary School PO14 4RP, 12 Jan 9:30am & 10:30am Ashcroft Arts Centre PO16 7DR, 13 Jan 9:30am & 10:30am

Exclusive membership discounts if you book today!

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

7

Families parties

Personalise your child’s party If the prospect of hosting a party for thirty or more children daunts you as a parent, it can be equally unnerving for your child.

Whilst some children relish the opportunity of a high intensity, high volume extravaganza, there is also a larege number who prefer something more gentle. Here are some tips for different party styles....

and have a lot of fun with it. There are lot of local dance schools who offer these types of parties including Stagecoach, DM Dance, The Performing Arts Academy and Perform.

For Less Independent Children

Small children can get overwhelemed by large parties in unfamiliar venues. If you are planning a big party for a pre-schooler, be prepared for them to want you. Set up as much as possible before the party starts and get friends or family to help. You can then spend the time with your child during the party.

For Shy Children

For Super Active Children

Soft play centres make ideal party venues

with unlimited opportunity for kids to race around and for younger children they have age-appropriate toys and equipment. Jungle Jeans Southampton offer great themed soft play parties or take a look at Oxygen Freejumping for high energy trampolining.

Sport activity providers are great at getting children to actively expel their energy and you can choose a provider that offers sport that will suit your child such as tennis, football or rugby.

Multisport providers offer children to try lots of different sports. Have a look at local providers such as Rugbytots South Hants, Goals Southampton or Little Kickers.

Dance parties are also very popular. Pick a dance theme, songs and choreograph a fabulous dance routine. The kids will love it

8

Families Hampshire West

Consider keeping the guest list small and have a party at home. There are lots of activities you can do which don’t require lots of running around or loud noises. Sensory games work well including blindfolding and having to guess what they are holding or touching. Pin the tail on the donkey and pass the parcel still work well. Plus if things get a bit hectic you can always play sleeping elephants!

Food - keep it simple and easy and make

sure you have plenty of water or juice and keep sugar intake low by offering things like fake tattoos and stickers as prizes instead of sweets.

Decorations - if your child doesn’t like balloons, decorate your venue with bunting instead and use a bubble machine for that magical touch.

Bahaviour - lastly, if you have invited a child that you know can be a handful then ask in advance if one of their parents can stay and intervene if their child is monopolising attention.

Find out more about parties and see our local party directory from Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.ukusic

Local Party Ideas Football Parties with Goals Southampton

When it comes to the nations favorite sport, nobody does it better than Goals Southampton. Only Goals feature the very latest ProTurf Arenas, the same as that used by the top European clubs. Children couldn’t have a better start to their footballing careers with our two great offers. Firstly, a great football party package. The standard package starts at just £13 per child with a minimum of 10 children. Plus, they offer the biggest and best coaching sessions on Thursday evenings and Saturday and every school holiday break. Call today on 023 8051 0666 for more information.

Jungle Jeans Play and children’s Party centre

Jungle Jeans parties can be as simple or as complicated as you wish, with a variety of extras available to you such as party bags, lucky dip, piñatas and pass the parcel with many more to choose from. One of their most popular party options is the private hire the whole play centre starting from £200 which provides excellent value for money.

Give Jungle Jeans a call today and speak to one of their experienced party planners on 023 80638120.

ABG DISCO Parties Discos Weddings Birthdays

Call 01489 690311/ 07867 430535

www.abgdisco.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Be a superstar with a dance party with The Performing Arts Academy Be a superstar for the day and wow your friends with your amazing dance party.

Choices include; street dance, high school musical, break dance, pop star princess or you can create your own special theme.

Personalised dance routines for you to wow your parents at the end. Games included and different packages are available. Call 07930980038 for more information.

Princesses, pirates or detectives, there’s a Stagecoach party for everyone

Stagecoach themed parties are perfect for children and teenagers looking for a unique celebration to remember. With lots of birthday themes to choose from, younger children are taken on a roller-coaster ride through their imagination as they take part in party games, storytelling, dancing and singing.

Each party is run by a special party host and is tailored to your child. Youngsters can dress up and choose from a variety of themes including knights and princesses, mermaids and pirates, fairies and pop stars.

For older children, they offer murder mystery parties where kids and teenagers are encouraged to get into character and join in as a series of mysterious events unfold.

For more information call your local Stagecoach provider; Southampton and Eastleigh 01962 771024, Totton 02380 422488, Winchester 01794 390601 or Hedge End 01489 666323.

A party like no other at Oxygen Freejumping

Birthday parties at Oxygen Freejumping consist of an hour to explore the entire trampoline park. Fly across over 150 connected trampolines with friends, or battle it out on the bounciest dodgeball courts you can imagine. Then it’s over to the exclusive party room to soak up the atmosphere with jumping music, pizza and drinks. Oxygen Freejumping has it all covered so adults can sit back, relax and enjoy themselves, while the kids jump for joy! To book a party visit oxygenfreejumping.co.uk

Make your child’s special celebration more fun with a Rugbytots party

A Rugbytots Party is a fantastically funfilled way to celebrate your child’s birthday, starting school or any other special event.

Distinctive and dynamic, their parties follow a slightly different format to our standard Rugbytots classes, with a greater emphasis on play, plus plenty of party games and group participation Whether your child already attends their classes or not, at a Rugbytots Party they’ll be sure to have a ball!

To book a party call Hogie on 0345 313 3244

November/ December 2016

Catering for your party Catering for your children’s birthday parties can feel like a lot of work, particularly when you’re already flat out juggling work, family commitments, and trying to pin down the last few bits and pieces you need buy to make sure the birthday boy or girl enjoys the party.

But there are a few simple tips you can follow, to keep your spend on party food low, and to make sure the food prep on the day of the party isn’t a frazzling nightmare: 1. Keep it simple. Children’s parties can feel like a shop window to your domestic goddess abilities! But unless you have acres of time, you don’t need to make Pinterest-ready pinwheel sandwiches. Choose 2-3 sandwich fillings, and stick to that. Cut them into shapes with biscuit cutters, the kids will love it – but weigh up the bread you’ll waste, regular square sandwiches will taste just as good.

2. Don’t overdo it on the portion size. Unless you’re feeding a gang of ravenous teenagers, most party-age children will only eat one roll or ¾ of a sandwich, a cupcake (probably just the icing), crisps, and a handful of carrot sticks, and grapes / strawberries and sausage rolls.

3. If you do go large on something, make it crisps. Multiple flavours. They don’t want lovingly made jelly boats made from oranges, or cute cucumber faces.

They want crisps.

4. Kids eat with their eyes like the rest of us, so if you want to get creative, jazz up the table with some fun additions quickly swiped from their stash of toys – a plastic pick-up truck, or a favourite-character toy box works brilliantly to serve crisps and popcorn.

5. Finally, take a drink for yourself – and the rest of the adults if you have the bandwidth. They’ll be super grateful.

Of course, the other option is to get the party catered. Many soft-play and leisure centres offer food packages into the deal. Though the quality of what you get for your hard-earned money can vary. The best-value way to take all the hassle out of the process entirely is to ‘go pro’: bring in a bespoke children’s party catering service to provide your party guests with quality food, delivered straight to your home or the party venue. They can even stay and serve the kids for you, so you can concentrate on having fun.

Whether you’re thinking party boxes or a buffet menu, or a tea party, there’s a delicious bespoke-food package to fit your budget. Including the cake, special diets, and themed menus. It’s not as expensive as you think! Contact City Catering Southampton to discuss the options. Call 023 8033 2227.

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

9

It’s Christmas

There is so much to see and do in Hampshire this November and December. Here is our guide to all things Christmas incuding where to see Santa, shopping at our fantatic local markets, Ice Skating, Pantomimes and so much more. You can also see more on our website www.familiesonline.co.uk

Santa Specials Santa has swapped his sleigh for a fun filled journey on an enchanting steam train!

Children will have their very own visit from Santa delivering a gift at their seat. Each carriage is decorated with festive colour and sparkle and with Christmas songs playing; you’ll need your best singing voice to join in! This is a great and different opportunity for you and the children to get into the magical festive spirit! www.watercressline.co.uk

Super Camps From 15-23 December. The ultimate in fun and games to get in the festive spirit!

Whilst you plan your perfect Christmas, jingle all the way to Super Camps and let us look after the children. The fun will be non-stop with some great seasonal activities on our Multi-Activity course to create that Christmas buzz.

Christmas family fun at Petworth House & Park You and your family are invited to a Christmas Masquerade at Petworth. Step inside the mansion wearing one of our Italianate masks and enjoy a spectacle of mischief and disguise then dress to impress with costume items in the Little Dining Room, perfect for a family photo.

You can also help Monty the mouse and friends on a trail around the Pleasure Grounds as they hunt for their festive finery.

Create memories with us this festive season, open from 3 December to 2 January. Normal admission prices apply and trails are £3 each. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/petworth-houseand-park

Your local camps will be held at The Westgate School, Winchester. to find out more visit www.supercamps.co.uk, call 01235467300 or email info@ supercamps.co.uk.

Space Mission for Santa at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Blast off into space and help save Christmas from 3 - 23 December. This interactive, presenter-led show explores the solar system while helping Santa ensure Christmas can go ahead as planned. There’ll be lots of shouting and calling out but also a chance to learn about the planets as you travel around an accurate model of the solar system.

Tickets to just see the show cost £7.50 or if you’ve paid for general entry to the Centre it’s only an additional £3.80 per seat. Recommended for children under 10, the shows take place during the day with times listed on the website . www.winchestersciencecentre.org

10

Families Hampshire West

Christmas at Paultons Park From Saturday November 19th, celebrate Christmas at Paultons Family Theme Park, home to the world’s first and UK exclusive Peppa Pig World.

After investing more than half a million pounds into its winter wonderland, the theme park has unveiled the magic behind its new look for the festive season, which will include twinkling illuminations, seasonal music and a giant musical Christmas tree.

Families visiting Christmas at Paultons will enjoy Santa’s Grotto, as they join a reindeer on his journey to find Santa in time for Christmas Eve. Along the way, children will meet many of the reindeer’s animal friends and be greeted by Father Christmas himself at the magical grotto.

After receiving a special present, children can visit the Park’s state-of-the-art 4D Show Street Cinema for a screening of the Christmas adventure film, Sleigh Ride, where Blitzen the reindeer and elf Bobo help Santa and save Christmas.

Guests will be entertained with a new daily Christmas Show. Adults can enjoy a complimentary hot fruit punch and a seasonal treat whereas children of course receive a free Christmas present.. Visitors will also be able to enjoy selected rides and attractions, including Peppa Pig World.

For more details visit www.paultonspark. co.uk.

Please note: Lost Kingdom (all rides and attractions), Edge, Cobra, Magma, Go-Karts, Dragon Ride, Digger Ride, Seal Falls, Raging River Ride, Sky Swinger, Water Kingdom and Muddy Puddles will not be open for Christmas at Paultons.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Fantastic Mr Fox at the Nuffield Theatre

Win a

Boggis, Bunce and Bean, Family Ticket three greedy, smelly, horrid farmers hate the cunning Mr Fox. Mr Fox is smart, clever and rather fantastic, but he doesn’t realise how determined the farmers are to get revenge.

Can he hatch a plan to save his family and friends? Can they outrun the diggers and outsmart the farmers, and can Rabbit shut up long enough not to give the game away?

Roald Dahl’s Fantastic Mr Fox is family fun at its finest. A juicy tale of greed, pride and the power of friendship, this flagship production for the Roald Dahl centenary celebrations promises a dahlicious theatrical feast with live music and songs and gloriumptious designs.

A wondercrump treat for the whole family!

A Nuffield and Curve co-production in association with Lyric Hammersmith, this playful re-telling of Dahl’s brilliant and witty story will be a stunning stage spectacle.

Fantastic Mr Fox runs from 22 Nov - 8 Jan 2017, to book tickets call the Box Office on 023 8067 1771. www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk

To Win a Family ticket to See Fantastic Mr Fox go to our website for details on how to enter www.familiesonline.co.uk/local/south-west-hampshire

Christmas at Winchester Cathedral Winchester is a must-visit destination for all those in search of an authentic Christmas experience. The Cathedral is at the heart of the festivities with its stunning Christmas Market and real Ice Rink. The Christmas Market is inspired by traditional German Christmas markets. The pretty wooden chalets are situated in the Cathedral’s historic Close surrounding an open-air real ice rink. All exhibitors have been hand-picked for their interesting, high quality and unique products many of which can’t be bought on the high street. The market will be running from Fri 18 Nov - Tue 20 Dec. The much-loved Ice Rink has received a brand new makeover, most striking of which is the addition of a clear roof. Skaters can now enjoy a rain-free experience whatever the weather! The clear roof and open-air sides offer great views of the Cathedral and the unique experience of ice skating in this incredible setting. Open Fri 18 Nov - Mon 2 Jan 2017 from 10am to 8.45pm. www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Exbury’s Christmas Postal Express Everyone loves a Christmas present and this year Exbury Gardens is giving everyone the chance to visit specially selected areas of gardens free of charge for two weekends in December. On 3/4, 10/11 and 17/18 December, from 10am – 4pm.

There will also be special ‘Postal Express’ trains running from 10.45am – 3pm (£5 per person, cash only) where children will be able to post a picture they’ve drawn for Father Christmas in a special mailbox and then hop aboard the Postal Express. At the end of each day, Father Christmas will look at all the pictures and choose three winners who will each receive a special present. Visit www.exbury.co.uk for more details.

Wild Christmas at Adventure Wonderland Including our new festive Panto!*

BOOK NOW! Follow us:

adventurewonderland.co.uk 01202 483444

*selected dates Nov/Dec

November/ December 2016

Opposite Bournemouth Airport

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

11

Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company and The Berry Theatre present The Little Red Hen Magical Christmas Lights Switch On and Free Santa’s Grotto at The Marlands Enjoy a magical experience at The Marlands Shopping Centre’s spectacular Christmas Lights Switch On from 4-7 pm on Thursday 17th November when the Centre will be transformed into a glittering woodland wonderland, with Robin Hood, the Sheriff, Maid Marian and friends there for all the fun!

On Saturday 26th November at 12 noon, join the Heart Angels for the exciting Grand Opening of Santa’s Grotto which is completely FREE to visit throughout the festive season.

A real Christmas treat for the whole family!

A chainsaw wielding chicken stars in this fabulously updated traditional tale... throw in a pig with an iPod, a rat with a mobile phone and a lazy cow with a fake tan. Poor hardworking Red Hen just wants to make her own bread but can’t get any of the other animals to get off their reclining sofas and help her.

Cutting the corn is particularly tricky and Red Hen tries a whole range of tools from a pair of garden shears to a crazy puppet chainsaw.... tricky when you only have claws and a beak to hold them!

This madcap fun from the renowned Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company is packed with exceptional puppetry, songs and comedy routines - perfect for all the family.From 12th 24th December. Call the Box Office: 023 8065 2333 or visit www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

To Win a Family ticket to See The Little Red Hen go to our website for more details and to enter www.familiesonline.co.uk/local/south-westhampshire. T&C’s apply.

An Edwardian Christmas at Bursledon Brickworks

Santa’s Grotto will be open on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th November, then from Saturday 26th November right up to Christmas Eve.

Come and be amazed at the authentic sights, sounds and smells of the last streamdriven Victorian brickworks in the UK.

Could you sell Christmas cards on behalf of Brain Tumour Research?

New Years Eve Family Party This year New Years Eve at the Holiday Inn Winchester is all about family time!

The event has been specifically designed to ensure that families can see 2017 in together. The evening starts with a children’s buffet and once finished the children will be entertained by Professor Potty. Whilst the children are being amused it is time for the adults to enjoy their three course hot fork buffet. Finally once dinner is over everyone will come together for a family disco provided by the resident DJ. What better way to start 2017!

Call 01962 670700 to book or visit the website: www.hiwinchester.co.uk

12

Families Hampshire West

Win a Family Ticket

Christmas provides another great opportunity to raise funds to support dedicated centres of brain tumour research and to help improve outcomes for the thousands of patients and their families living with the diagnosis of a brain tumour.

It’s also a brilliant way of spreading the word and raising awareness of this dreadful disease, as every card has our logo and a sentence about why people should support the cause.

Proceeds from the sale of their Christmas cards, approx £2 per pack and will go directly to funding much needed brain tumour research and help find a cure for this most devastating of diseases, which kills more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

Call 01908 867200 to order or visit www. braintumourresearch.org/christmascards for more details

Make your own brick, get close to brick making machines and walk through the big drying sheds. This year we are holding an Edwardian Workers Christmas event combining a Christmas market, Father Christmas and other festive treats. The machinery will be all steamed up and working, trains running (slightly subject to weather) live music playing and café baking.

In December we are having a Father Christmas Special when families join us for a festive museum event – numbers are limited so book early.

To book and for more details visit www.bursledonbrickworks.org.uk

Kids Santa Cruises with Blue Funnel Looking for something different to do this Christmas? Blue Funnel offer a wide range of exciting Christmas events including Christmas lunch cruises running throughout December or if you looking for something a little more lively how about a Christmas Party Cruise, with reception drink, disco and buffet. As always Santa and Scotty the Clown will be there to give children that magical Christmas cruise experience. Visit www.bluefunnel.co.uk for the full itinerary and dates. www.familiesonline.co.uk

Children’s Santa Cruise A unique way to visit Santa Saturday 17th December 11am & 2pm Saturday 18th December 11am & 2pm Join Santa & his good friend Scotty the clown for a festive Christmas cruise around the Solent Children will be entertained by Scotty then meet Santa and receive a present in his magical Christmas grotto Adults £10.50 Child £9.50 Complimentary glass of wine for the grown ups and a soft drink for the children also included in the ticket price

Call 02380 223278 for more details or to book

www.bluefunnel.co.uk

Adapted for the stage by Sam Holcroft

Directed by Maria Aberg

22 NOV - 8 JAN NUFFIELD THEATRE A Nuffield and Curve co-production in association with Lyric Hammersmith

BOOK NOW: 023 8067 1771 nstheatres.co.uk November/ December 2016

Space Mission for Santa Blast off into space and help save Christmas!

A live planetarium show with a Christmas twist, especially designed with families in mind

The show lasts 30 minutes and is perfect for ages up to 10 years Showings every Saturday & Sunday, and weekdays 15 - 23 December

01962 863 791 winchestersciencecentre.org Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

13

How to keep energy levels up for learning during the winter

By Liat Hughes Joshi

Even lively kids can lose their get up and go as winter draws in. Here’s how to maximise your family’s energy levels…

Consider a ‘wake up gently’ alarm clock

Swap the shock of sudden, loud alarms and bright lights switching on for an alarm clock that mimics sunrise by gradually increasing lighting levels. These make waking up less of a thing to dread on dark mornings.

Maximise sleep

The NHS recommends 11 hours sleep for a five-year-old, reducing steadily to around 9.5 hours by the age of 11. Work back from when they need to get up to determine optimal bedtimes.

Make hearty but healthy breakfasts

WINTER WARMING RECIPE Sweet Potato & Lentil Curry The nights are drawing in, have the perfect ‘cosy’ dinner recipe for you to re-fuel your family’s hungry tummies with a winter warmer of sweet potato and lentil curry. The recipe is really popular with the children of Southampton – City Catering Southampton serve it in their schools, and it always goes down a treat. The ingredients are cheap to buy, but really high in nutritional value (fibre, protein, vitamins A and C, complex carbohydrates, and iron). And the recipe is quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes with very little ‘faff’.

Ingredients (serves 5) 450g sweet potato, peeled and diced 100g red lentils 300g tinned tomatoes, including the juice (3/4 of a standard tin) 65g plain flour 65g butter or margarine 1 tsp curry powder (or to taste) 500ml (just under a pint) vegetable stock

Method

Swap sugar-loaded cereals for something warming and energyboosting, such as fruity porridge or scrambled eggs.

•

Simmer the lentils in the vegetable stock in a medium saucepan, until soft.

Put some lively music on!

•

Set aside – keep the lentils and the cooking liquid (do not drain).

•

Peel and dice the sweet potatoes. Add to a large saucepan with enough water to cover. Bring to the boil (as you would regular potatoes), and then simmer until just cooked - not too soft. Drain.

•

For the sauce, melt the butter/margarine in a small saucepan, add in the flour and curry powder and mix until smooth. Add the juice from the tomatoes to make a paste.

•

Add the paste, tomatoes and drained sweet potatoes to the lentils and stock, and combine gently, taking care not to crush the sweet potatoes.

•

If the curry is too thin, simmer until it thickens; if it’s too thick, add a little water (a tablespoon at a time) and simmer to the desired consistency.

•

Check the seasoning and adjust to your taste.

If it’s gloomy outside and everyone’s half asleep…liven things up with mood-enhancing tunes. The right music is a brilliant pick-meup!

Walk to (and from) school

If time and distance allows, leaving the car behind and walking will help ensure children are fully awake for their first lessons of the day.

Watch out for ‘end-of-term-itis’ exhaustion

Many children get a build up of tiredness, which can lead to a condition lightheartedly called ‘end-of-term-itis’, involving tears and tantrums aplenty by December.

Fend it off with quieter afternoons and weekends along with sensible bed times.

Get outside at the weekends whatever the weather

Whilst you may all benefit from downtime after a busy week, even an hour of fresh air and activity will do everyone good.

Remember there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing – invest in decent waterproofs and wellies for everyone!

Get more information about the importance of sleep from Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.uk/sleep

14

Families Hampshire West

Serve with rice, jacket potatoes, wedges, or pitta bread for dipping; and if your family loves the green stuff, steamed broccoli or green beans are a great accompaniment.

For more great recipie ideas visit City Catering Southampton’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/CityDinnersSouthampton www.familiesonline.co.uk

Edible

Families what’s on

Christmas

you can make with your kids

gifts

Christmas gifts don’t have to be expensive and you can have lots of fun making foodie gifts for your friends and family. Here are a few quick, easy and delicious ideas for you to make with your children.

To decorate; Icing sugar Water Lemon juice

Christmas cookies in a jar

This is a lovely gift as the jar can be used again and it's full of yummy, Christmassy biscuits too.

You will need 250g soft butter or margarine 140g caster sugar 1 egg 2 tsp vanilla extract 300g plain flour 1.

2.

Mini Pretzels

Embrace the inner European in you with these German snacks

You will need 3 tsp honey 1½ half packets dried yeast 800g plain flour 1½ tsp salt 6 tbsp olive oil 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6 tbsp baking powder 2 egg whites Coarse sea salt for sprinkling Red Leicester and yellow Cheddar.

Mix together one of the tablespoons full of honey with 500 ml warm water in a measuring jug and add the yeast. Stir it until the yeast has completely dissolved and becomes a little foamy.

Then in a bowl, mix together the flour and the salt. Add the oil, the yeast and water mixture and the rest of the honey and work with a wooden spoon and then hands to make a dough.

Now comes the fun part. Put the ball of dough onto a floured board or work surface and let the kids get kneading. It needs about ten minutes, adding a bit more flour as you go if it gets too sticky. Return the dough to the bowl and cover with a tea towel and set in a warm place to rise for about 1 hour.

Take the dough out and knead all over again for five minutes this time. Then break the dough up into little balls – you should make 24. Roll each one out into a long rope, then bring the ends together and twist it twice near the top of the loop to make a pretzel shape. A little practice makes it perfect. Let them rest for 15 minutes.

Next, you have to poach the pretzels – this is what gives them their fluffy inside. Put the baking soda in a large pan of water, brig to the boil, then poach each pretzel on each side for just around 15 seconds. Work in batches.

Finally, lay them on a flat baking tray lined with baking parchment, brush with egg white and sprinkle with coarse salt and then bake at 450 F 220 C Gas 6 for 15 minutes.

3.

4.

Cream together the butter and sugar, then add the yolk from the egg and the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and keep mixing until it forms a ball of dough. Kids can do this with their hands.

Roll the dough out of a floured surface and use a variety of Christmas cookie cutters to make the shapes – stars, diamonds and hearts are all good. Bake for 12-15 minutes (gas4, 190C 375 F).

Once cool, mix the icing sugar with a teaspoon of lemon juice and a little water, until it is easy to pour but still thick. Use a piping bag to make decorations on each and leave to dry in a cool place.

Finally, place a selection of the cookies into a Kilner jar and decorate with a Christmas ribbon, bells and a label.

Snowballs

Everyone loves chocolate and these little snowball shaped truffles are great as a Christmas themed treat.

You will need 2 tbsp double cream 200g good white chocolate, chopped 1.

Get Get more morefantastic fantasticfood foodideas ideasand andrecipes recipies from fromfamilies familiesonline online

2.

www.familiesonline.co.uk/food/recipes www.familiesonline.co.uk/food/recipes

3.

November/ December December 2016 November/ 2016

¼ tsp ground cinnamon Tiny pinch of ground star anise ¼ tsp nutmeg Large Kilner jar Ribbon and decorations

½ tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp desiccated coconut Mini cake cases

Put the chocolate pieces in a pudding basin and set it over a pan of hot water, with the double cream. Bring to a simmer and then turn the heat down low.You’ll need to supervise your child at this stage, as steam can burn. Stir with a wooden spoon until the chocolate has melted into the cream. Add the vanilla, take off the heat and chill for one hour. It should then be firm but still loose enough to work with.

With a teaspoon, each take a small amount of the chocolate paste and roll it in a ball between your palms. Then roll it in the coconut and you have little snowball shaped truffles. Place each completed one inside a mini cake case.

Pop some inside a jam jar to give as a gift and add little playful touches such as tiny robins and Christmas trees that you use as cake decorations.

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us 1511 Oxfordshire Magazine

What’s on

Your guide to family events this November and December. Don’t forget to check with the venue before setting off just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print. Visit our website for inspirational ideas for fun days out near you. www.familiesonline.co.uk

Sat 5 November Dinosaur Detectives Nuffield Theatre University Road, Southampton, SO17 1TR www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk A Historical story about looking for Dinosaur bone with puppetry combined with projection and shadow theatre create their fascinating world. Ages 5+ £6.

Sat 5 November Hanger Farm Family Winter Warmer Hanger Farm Arts Centre Aikman Lane, West Totton, Southampton, SO40 8FT www.hangerfarm.co.uk 2 - 5pm. £1.50. Drop in to the Barn at any time for Stories with a Bang, Sparkly Crafts, Hot Chocolate and maybe a Tea-time Treat.

Sat 5 November Mayflower Park Fireworks Mayflower Park Southampton, SO15 1AG www.mayflowerparkfireworks.co.uk £6 adults, £4 children, under 5 free The gate opens at 3pm for access to the fun fair. Live entertainment starts at 6pm and fireworks start at 7:45pm. The gate closes at 7:15pm.

Sat 5 November Winchester Round Table Charity Bonfire & Fireworks River Park Winchester, SO23 7DD www.winchesterbonfire.co.uk There will be a torchlit procession rom the Guildhall at 6:30pm, followed by fireworks display.

16

Families Hampshire West

Sat 5 November Fireworks Night Royal Victoria Country Park Netley Abbey, Southampton SO31 5GA www3.hants.gov.uk £8 Adult / £6 Child / £20 Family Under 5s free, price includes parking. A spectacular Fireworks display set to music in a beautiful setting. Food stalls, a mini funfair and the miniature railway.

Sat 5 November Lymington Fireworks Pennington Recreation Ground Lodge Road, Lymington, SO41 8HH www.lymingtonrotary.org.uk There will be delicious food on offer including toffee apples, hot dogs and burgers, pies and pasties. Fun attractions such as a bouncy castle and climbing wall will be sure to entertain.

Sat 5 November Family Arts Festival Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA www3.hants.gov.uk Take part in creative writing, have a go at painting and music, in what will be a fun and creative weekend for the whole family. Normal admission.

innovatively spectacular new show, Dynasty. Showcasing a troupe of 30 world-class Chinese acrobats, dancers and musicians and also featuring the super-human physical skill and dexterity of the masters of martial arts, the legendary Shaolin Warriors.

Wed 9 November Fostering Information Evening Southampton City Council Civic Centre, Southampton, SO14 7LY, www.southampton.gov.uk 6.30pm-8pm The evening will cover the realities of fostering, what happens during the assessment and panel process, challenges you will face and support you will receive. Q&A session and an opportunity to ask current carers about their experiences.

Thu 10 – Sun 20 November The Wind in the Willows Mayflower Theatre Empire Lane, Southampton, SO15 1AP www.mayflower.org.uk Tickets from £25 - £47.50 Kenneth Grahame’s wild tale comes to life in a spectacular new stage musical with a book by Downton Abbey creator, the Oscar-winning writer Julian Fellowes.

Sat12 November Flights of Fancy Nuffield Theatre University Road, Southampton, SO17 1TR, 023 8067 1771 www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk Flights of Fancy tells the tale of a baby Glovebird learning to fly, while the earthbound puppeteer and stickin-the-mud musician attempt to get the show off the ground. The show is small and perfectly performed, hand in glove and tongue in cheek, and guaranteed to appeal to adults and children alike. £6

Sat 5 November Mad Hatter Afternoon Tea Party The Beaulieu Hotel Beaulieu Road, SO42 7YQ, www.thenewforest.co.uk Booking essential. 2pm Child £21.95 / Adult £34.95 Tumble down the rabbit hole into Wonderland and the wonderful world of tea with the Mad Hatter.

Sat12 Nov– Fri 23 December Southampton Christmas Festival Above Bar Street Southampton, SO14 7FE The main attraction at Southampton is the twice-daily show of “The Flying Santa” The Southampton Christmas Festival will be in the main shopping area at Above Bar Street. The emphasis is on top quality arts and crafts and food stalls with European food.

Sun 6 November Chinese State Circus Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk 2:30pm and 6pm Tickets £27, Under 16s, £12 The internationally acclaimed Chinese State Circus return in an

Sat 12 November Penguin! Elephant!

The Berry Theatre, Wildern Lane, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 4EJ www.theberrytheatre.co.uk 11am and 2pm / Adult £8 / Child £6 With original songs, hilarious physical comedy and dance, Penguin! Elephant! is a magical new

show about celebrating differences for anyone who has ever waddled like a Penguin or stomped like an Elephant. Ages 3+ Sat 12 Nov – Sat 24 December Breakfast or Tea with Father Christmas Wyevale Garden Centre Southampton Road, Cadnam, Southampton, SO40 2NB www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk Child £9.99 / Adult from £3.99 Enjoy breakfast or tea, plus biscuit decorating, fun festive activities and a present from Father Christmas.

Online booking essential.

Sun 13 November The Magic Paintbrush Theatre Royal Winchester, Jewry Street, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8SB, www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk Tickets £13 / Family of four £44, 11:30am or 2:30pm, 3 years + Exploding with energy, surprises and giggles, and set to a quirky urban soundtrack, this is The Magic Paintbrush as never before.

Sun 13 November Remembrance Day Parade Royal Victoria Country Park Netley Abbey, Southampton, SO31 5GA Wreath laying at the Cenotaph. Free entry, normal car parking charges apply. 3pm Sat 19 November Digging up the Past Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Jermyns Lane, Romsey, Ampfield, SO51 0QA www3.hants.gov.uk/hilliergardens Suitable for 3-12 years. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Booking essential, call 01794 369318. 10am or 1:30pm. £12 per session Sat 19 Nov – Sat 24 December A Magical Christmas The Adventure Barn Hurst Lane, Owslebury, Winchester, SO21 1EZ www.marwellactivitycentre.co.uk Visit Santa and his elves at the traditional Christmas grotto and receive a festive goody bag along with a free entry pass to the Adventure Barn. Tickets £8.50.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families what’s on

www.romseycarnival.co.uk There will be a Winter Carnival Procession starting from Crossfield Hall, followed by the Christmas lights switch on. 6pm

Sat 19 Nov – Mon 2 January Indoor Ice Rink The Adventure Barn Hurst Lane, Owslebury, Winchester, SO21 1EZ www.marwellactivitycentre.co.uk This synthetic ice rink is open to any skater 4 years+ and can also be booked for kids’ parties and private hire. Open sessions last 1 hour and must be pre-booked by calling 01962 777547. Open sessions: Adult £7.50 / Child £4.50 Tue 22 November Fantastic Mr Fox Nuffield Theatre University Road, Southampton, SO17 1TR, 023 8067 1771 www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk See page 10 for details.

Tue 22 November Percy the Park Keeper Royal Victoria Country Park Netley Abbey, Southampton, SO31 5GA A short walk for pre-school children with a craft activity, drink and biscuit.

Please book in advance (call 023 8045 5157). All children must be accompanied by an adult. 11am /£4 Thu 24 – Sat 26 November Aladdin The Berry Theatre Wildern Lane, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 4EJ www.theberrytheatre.co.uk The Performing Arts Company are once again returning to The Berry Theatre for their annual family pantomime. Aladdin is the tale of the Arabian Nights rags to riches and is full of Eastern promise, adventure and humour. Adult £12 / Child £10.

Fri 25 November Christmas in Lymington Lymington Town Centre High Street, Lymington, SO41 9AL Festive market stalls will be selling Christmas ware and treats from 4pm to 8pm on the High Street. St Thomas Church will hold a service at 6pm (blessing of the Town Crib).

Christmas lights will be switched-on by the Town Mayor and shops will open into the evening. From 4pm Sat 26 November Romsey Winter Carnival Crossfield Hall, Romsey, SO51 8GL

November/ December 2016

Sat 26 Nov – Tues 3 January The Twelve Days of Christmas Mottisfont - National Trust nr Romsey, SO51 0LP www.nationaltrust.org.uk Prepare to be dazzled by nine sparkling dresses, seven swans afloat in the river and much more.

For family fun, follow the trail which includes drumming drums, playing pipes and a ‘lords a-leaping’ craft activity. Normal admission charges.

Sat 26 November Christmas Fair and Market Brockenhurst Village Hall Highwood Road, Brockenhurst, SO42 7RY brockenhurstvillage.org.uk Brockenhurst Village Halll will be filled with gifts, games, food and drink, plus children can meet Santa in the twinkly grotto! 11am - 4pm.

Adult £1 / Child (under 15) free

Sat3 – Sun 4 December New Forest Christmas Fair Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway Southampton, Exbury, SO45 1AZ, The New Forest Christmas Fair is a traditional family day out, full of local produce and gifts and festive atmosphere. 10 am - 4pm daily.

Adult £2 / Child Free Sat 3 – Mon 19 December Christmas Family Trail Hinton Ampner - National Trust nr Alresford, SO24 0LA www.nationaltrust.org.uk Follow the trail around the grounds. Search for the advent calendar boxes and find out what is hidden inside each one. Normal admission, plus £2 per trail.

Sat 3 – Sun 4 December Snow Globe Photo Experience The Furlong Shopping Centre, Ringwood, BH24 1AT www.thefurlong.co.uk Head to The Furlong on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December for a unique snow globe photo experience. Free entry No need to book, just turn up. This event is very popular and there may be queues during busy periods.

10am - 4pm Sat 3 – Fri 23 December Longdown Farm Christmas Barn Longdown Activity Farm, Longdown, Ashurst, SO40 7EH www.longdownfarm.co.uk Set among the twinkling lights and Christmas trees, excited animals will be waiting to meet the children so that they can share

Wed30 Nov – Sat 3 December Beauty and the Beast Mayflower Theatre Empire Lane, Southampton, SO15 1AP www.mayflower.org.uk A treasured classic reimagined.

A timeless ballet for a modern audience. Tickets from £21-£38 Thur 1 – Sat 3 December The 12 Days of Christmas The Point Eastleigh Leigh Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk The Point Youth Theatre brings you a magical winter tale for a magical winter tale for all the family, filled with delicious storytelling and brimming with festive cheer. 7pm (2pm Saturday matinee) £8/ £7 conc Fri 2 December Goldilocks and the Three Bears Mayflower Theatre www.mayflower.org.uk 12pm. £7.50.

Bringing this classic children’s story to life, Goldilocks & the Three Bears is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet.

Sat 3 – Sun 4 December Christmas Tree Decoration Making Winchester City Mill Bridge Street, Winchester, SO23 8EJ, www.nationaltrust.org.uk With the help of the mill’s arts and crafts team, choose from the crafts box and make your own Christmas tree decoration with a Christmas wish to hang on the mill’s trees.

Normal admission charges apply.

12pm - 2pm.

Christmas Eve Party 24th December 11.30am - 2pm & 3pm - 5.30pm £16.50 per child

Santas Grotto

Art ‘n’ craft

Scotty the Clown

Hunt the chocolate Santa

Fancy Dress

Biscuit Decorating

Party Bags

Christmas Pinata

Crazy Tattoos

Adult pamper area

To book a place please Call 023 8063 8120 www.junglejeans.co.uk Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

17

Families What’s on their Christmas wishes. There will be seasonal crafts and other fun too. Look out for Father Christmas’ tractor sleigh parked outside the Farmhouse Grotto.The soft play area will be open as well as the tea room, however the rest of Longdown Activity Farm will be closed.

10:30am - 4pm Sat 3 December Christmas Market and Santa’s Grotto The Hub Bishopstoke Road, SO50 6LA, www.facebook.com/Babybearsme Bring your children to the Grotto to meet Santa and receive a gift! Time slots available to book by emailing babybearsmarkets@gmail.com 2:30pm - 4:30pm. £6 per child to visit Santa’s Grotto.

Sat 3 Dec - Mon 2 January The Woodland Creatures Party Petworth House & Garden www.nationaltrust.org.uk Join Monty the mouse and friends as they hunt around the pleasure grounds trying to find their mask for the ball in the mansion. Can you find each character and help them locate their mask. 10am-3pm.

Sat 4th December Father Christmas Special Bursledon Brickworks www.bursledonbrickworks.org.uk Entry £6 child, £3 adult (price includes children’s visit to Father Christmas and refreshments) Booking essential.11am – 1pm A Christmas special including a festive trail round the museum, visit to Father Christmas, making your own decoration and festive refreshments.

4, 7, 11, 14 and 18 December Costumed Encounters Petworth House & Garden www.nationaltrust.org.uk Meet some of our costumed interpretation team as they bring alive the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas from bygone times.

11am-3pm Thur 8 December The Elves and the Shoemaker Forest Arts Centre Old Milton Road, New Milton, BH25 6DS Bumblefly bring their trademark mayhem, mischief, song and slapstick to a show for all the family.

Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT This new and hilarious production of Snow White will captivate kids of all ages and give mums, dads and grandparents more than just a good old laugh along the way. 7pm Adult £10 / Child £5.

Ages 4+. Book online. 7:30pm.

Tickets £7 per person / Family £25 plus booking fee.

Sat 10 December Lyndhurst Christmas Fair Lyndhurst Community Centre, Lyndhurst, SO43 7NY www.lyndhurstparishcouncil.org.uk Don’t miss this opportunity to find handmade crafts and unique gifts.

From jewellery, homemade jams and chutneys to vintage and retro home decor and much more. Fill your stockings from 10 - 4pm.

Sat 17 Dec – Mon 2 January Christmas Holiday Family Trail Winchester City Mill www.nationaltrust.org.uk Get into the festive spirit with Santa and his elves’ trail everyday throughout the Christmas holiday.

Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the mischievous elves hiding around the Mill! Normal admission charges apply.

Sat 10 Dec – Mon 2 January Pantomime Bauble Hunt: Robin Hood Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA, 01794 369 317 www3.hants.gov.uk Following the story of Robin Hood, learn how he avoids capture and defeats the Sheriff. Held in conjunction with Mayflower Theatre’s Christmas Pantomime.

Sun 11 December Jack and the Beanstalk The Concorde Stoneham Lane, SO50 9HQ www.theconcordeclub.com Join the lovable Jack and his friends as they whisk you away to panto land in this magical family fun show Packed full of comedy, song and dance, a real treat for all the family.

2pm Tickets: Adult £13 / Child £5

Sat 17 Dec Christmas Crafts with Rachel Fairweather’s Garden Centre, High Street, Beaulieu, SO42 7YB, fairweathers.co.uk/christmas-crafts Join Rachel for various crafts including making a festive mini table arrangement, an ideal gift for someone. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Online booking essential. 10am, 11am or 12pm / £5 per child

Mon 12 December The Little Red Hen The Berry Theatre Wildern Lane, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 4EJ www.theberrytheatre.co.uk See page 12 for full details.

Sat 17 Dec – Mon 2 January Victorian Christmas The National Motor Museum Beaulieu, Brockenhurst www.beaulieu.co.uk There will be a children’s Christmas fairy tale themes for Christmas at Beaulieu, with the chance to have your picture taken in the gingerbread house at Palace House, costumed characters, carol singing around the piano and festive Victorian games.

Christmas activities are included in the general admission price.

Wed 14 – Thu 15 December Filskit Theatre presents Breaking the Ice The Point Eastleigh Leigh Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE, www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk Seated on the floor, you and your child will feel immersed in the performance. Then watch as your child joins in with the adventure and takes their place on Team Polar Bear or Team Husky! Adult £9 / Child £7

Sat 17 & Sun 18 December Santa Cruises Blue Funnel Cruises Ocean Village, SO14 3FJ bluefunnel.co.uk Scotty the Clown will entertain your children for the duration of the trip before they visit Santa in his special grotto and receive an early Christmas gift. All children receive a free soft drink with their ticket.

Booking essential. 11am or 2pm Adult £10.50 / Child £9.50.

Fri 16 December Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Mon 19 December Malcolm The Magician’s Magical Christmas Show

Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, Hampshire, SO40 8FT, www.hangerfarm.co.uk The whole family will love Malcolm the Magician’s hilarious festive magic show which really brings alive the magic of Christmas. A fabulous festive treat not to be missed! 11am and 2pm. Tickets £7.

Mon 19 December Tree Toppers workshop Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP www.southampton.gov.uk Drop in to the gallery and create a wonderful wire decoration (sequins and sparkles also available of course) to top off your tree. 10:30am - 1:30pm. £4 Tue 20 December Science for Christmas Forest Arts Centre Old Milton Road, New Milton, BH25 6DS, Ian B Dunne the stand-up scientist presents Science for Christmas as a special one off event in the New Forest in his spectacular and unique style. Putting the fizz into Physics, the mystery into Chemistry, the yuck into Biology and making Maths count. Book online. 11:30am and 2pm. Tickets £7.

Wednesday 21 December Lily and the Little Snow Bear Hanger Farm Arts Centre Brought to life by acclaimed Blunderbus Theatre, this funny, heartwarming tale of friendship is the perfect treat for Christmas.

Ages 3+ 11:30am, 2pm and 4:30pm.

Tickets £8 - £10 Thursday 22 December Toddler Time: Oh Stick Man SeaCity Museum Havelock Road, SO14 7FY www.seacitymuseum.co.uk Find out more about Stick Man and his adventure in this fun festive hands-on session for children aged 18 months to 4 years. Pre book on 023 8083 4536. 10:30am / £3.75 Friday 23 December Festive Wreaths workshop Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP www.southampton.gov.uk Make a fabulous festive wreath.

Suitable for ages 7-13 years.

Booking essential, call 023 8083 4536. 10am - 3pm. £20.

F 3 - or a 5 y ge ea s rs

Families Hampshire West Magazine is looking for distributors in Eastleigh, Shirley, Hedge End, Park Gate, Locks Heath and Southampton areas to start in January.

If you have a car, a few hours to spare every two months, are reliable and want to earn some extra money, contact: Rebecca on 07789882467 or email: editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk

18

Families Hampshire West

Breastfeeding Support Group La Leche League Southampton Mondays 10am-12pm (term time only) St James’ Road Methodist Church St James’ Road, Shirley Southampton, SO15 5HE

Facebook “f” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f” Logo

CMYK / .eps

www.LLLSouthampton.org.uk

Highly interactive classes to help your little learning bud grow Do you want to give your child a head start for school or simply help your pre-schooler work towards their early learning goals in a fun and supportive environment? Our classes are run by a qualified primary teacher and will be available across Southampton and surrounding areas.

For more information about our classes starting in September email: learningbudsuk@gmail.com

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Santa Specials

Family New Years Eve

See Santa on a steam train!

See in 2017 with the whole family at our Family New Years Eve event. The evening starts with a children’s buffet followed by entertainment with Professor Potty. Whilst the children are being entertained, the adults can enjoy their hot fork buffet. At 9pm everyone joins together for a family disco with our resident until 12.30am. Why not make a night of it and stay overnight from just £85 per room.

Advance booking only!

Tickets include children’s entertainer, fork buffet and family disco.

Visit www.hiwinchester.co.uk or call 01962 670700

Enjoy the magic of a one hour steam train ride as Santa visits you at your seat with a gift for every child.

3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th, 17th - 24th December BOOK NOW ON WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

WINCHESTER

Parents: Can your KIDS focus after lunch?

School Dinners

Boost Concentration!

Prepared to National School Food Standards, with

delicious fresh, quality ingredients, our school FREE!! n dinners give your children all the energy and e r d l i for ch tion, essential nutrients they need to stay focused p in Rece r2 and ‘on task’, right through until tea time.

Y Yr1, & PLUS!! All children in Year 2, Year 1, and Year R get a freshly cooked school dinner, every day, FREE!!

For Year 3s up, a school meal costs less than a take-out coffee!

>> Speak to your school office for a current menu and sign up!

Parents: Lower grocery bills Fewer supermarket trips Less meal planning No more lunchbox hassle At least 2 of their 5-a-day

Pupils: Exciting choices, and fun, social time with friends Nutritionally balanced meals, made with topquality ingredients, handmade by pro cooks Increased learning ability

Got questions? Call City Catering Southampton: 02380 332226. We serve 1.7m nutritious school dinners in 47 Southampton schools each year. @CityDinners November/ December 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

19

join us for an

Enchanted Christmas Thursday 17th November

Christmas Lights Switch On 4-7pm.

Enjoy a FREE Robin Hood themed Switch On, help the Sheriff to find Robin Hood and meet Maid Marian and her woodland friends.

P LUSnce

Experie of the magic

s at Christma

Visit Santa’s FREE Woodland Grotto. Santa’s Grotto will open on 19th and 20th November, and then 26th November to Christmas Eve. See website for full details.

@themarlands ‘Like’ us on Facebook

Saturday 26th November Santa’s arrival at 12 noon!

Join Santa and the Heart Angels for a fun-packed grand opening of Santa’s Grotto.

In partnership with:

www.marlandsshoppingcentre.co.uk

Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd/Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. ® Paultons Park and the Paultons Park logo are registered trademarks of Paultons Park Ltd

Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink gets a complete make-over, the most striking of which is its brand new clear-span roof.

With open sides and great views of the Cathedral and sky above skaters can enjoy all the atmosphere of an outdoor rink but all the comfort and convenience of an indoor!

ICE RINK Friday 18 November 2016 – Monday 2 January 2017 Session times: 10am – 8.45pm (last session starts 7.45pm) Tickets, including free skate hire: Other price options available for groups.

£10.95 adult £8.95 child aged 8–18 £6.50 child aged 4–7 £35.00 family (2+2)

NEW! CHILDREN’S PARTY PACKAGES Pre-bookable party packages combining skating with food and drink offers are now available via the Cathedral Box Office.

Available at all times for children aged 4 and above and at allocated times for children aged 2–3 years.

CHRISTMAS MARKET Friday 18 November – Tuesday 20 December 10am – 6.30pm, Sun – Wed, 10am – 7.30pm, Thu – Sat Book online at www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ice-rink or call 01 962 857 276

20

© Families Hampshire West 2016 Families Hampshire West Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire West Magazine are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Families Hampshire West

www.familiesonline.co.uk