Issue 52 September/October 2022 familiesonline.co.uk IN THIS ISSUE AutumnWhat'sClubsEducation&ClassesOnWalks FREETakeMeHome
Families Hampshire North2 Calling parents living in Hampshire! Work part time from home around your family and do something you love. Would you like to try your hand at magazine Wemarketing?mediainterestedAreayouDopublishing?youthinkcangrowbusiness?youinandarelooking for a new owner for Families Hampshire North Magazine.familiesonline.co.uk FREE Hampshire North Summer 2020 familiesonline.co.uk LeavingLockdown ENTER HERE T&Cs apply Capital is required. Get in touch today. Contact Rebecca for more details on 07789 882467 or email editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk
Welcome Can you believe the kids are back at school already? It seems like just a moment since they were breaking up! We hope you had a fantastic summer. No doubt, some of you will be reluctant to get back to routine, whilst others will welcome it; either way, getting some hours back in your day is a great opportunity to make some plans and set goals for the coming months. Starting or going back to school can be challenging for children (and parents) so check out our Education section for some great articles that will help, including the mysteries of phonics explained and how to help your child learn times Autumntables.can be a beautiful time of year for spending time outdoors so look for inspiration on where to enjoy some muddy walks around the UK when half term rolls around – presuming we have had some decent rain by then! And, if you want to keep your kids off screens as the nights draw in, check out our half term screen-free kids activities too. Finally, in this issue, we have tonnes of Action Heroes Sets to giveaway! Apply for these loveable mini toy sets for your child at familiesmag.co.uk/go. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.
Creative Courage For Life® ABOUTASKOURTWOWEEKTRIAL
September/October 2022 Families Hampshire North CONTENTS3Issue 52 I Sep/Oct 2022 Editor Rebecca editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.ukCarr 07789 882 Advertising467Claire claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.ukClarricoates 07812 218 331 Printed by Holbrooks Printers Ltd Next issue November/December Booking deadline 7 October Published 6 times per year. If you would like free copies contact us. Cover image Depositphotos.com Advertise your business in our next issue, book by 7 October andWhat'sChristmasPartiesParentingEducationOnmuch more... In this issue Education news Local news Meet the EducationHead Clubs & Classes What's Screen-FreeAutumnOnWalksHalf Term7.6.5.4. © Families Hampshire North Magazine 2022. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof. Rebeccca Editor, Families Hampshire North 15.14.12.10. kumon.co.ukTerms and conditions apply Fees vary Participating study centres only Subject to availability. at home | in centre | online Catch up and get ahead with Kumon maths and English study – where great futures take shape Book your Free Trial today! Basingstoke South 01256 533234 Basingstoke North 01256 636233 Fleet 07498 243071
An extraordinary experience at
Alton School is a happy co-ed Catholic School and Nursery for children from 6 months to Sixth Form. Things that set Alton School apart; some would say it’s their beautiful grounds, woodland walk and outdoor learning and playso perfect for those early years. Others point to the sense of community you can just feel. But if you are a parent looking for the best place to start your child’s education, it’s likely to be their inclusive and nurturing nature which stands out the most. Knowing your child as an individual and being able to spot their spark - these are the things that will make sure your child is supported and challenged every step of the Seeway.foryourself this autumn at an open event on Friday 14 October, 10am. Nursery and Pre School (6 months – 3+ years).
NEWS
Sherfield School
To register your interest and for more information visit www.altonschool.co.uk/how-to-join or email admissions@ altonschool.co.uk
Based in Hook, Sherfield School offer a whole education for boys and girls from all over the world, whether they be 3 months or 18 years. Having a diverse demographic of pupils is one of the reasons why their pupils enter into adulthood well-rounded and prepared.
Getting the best education for your child is a bit like making a cake. The ingredients you need are a school which values: happiness, relationships, resilience, teamwork, reflectiveness and community.
Jubilee Day Nursery is an independent nursery based in West Berkshire with a passion for outdoor play and learning. They have a wonderful garden bursting with lots of homegrown fruit and veggies. Their onsite gardener Sonja plants lots of delicious produce from seeds with children so that they can learn all about the process of gardening. The children love to regularly water all the carrots, lettuce, cucumbers and tomatoes and it’s always exciting to see how much they have grown. When they are ripe enough to pick, the vegetables and fruit are used in their freshly prepared meals and snacks for the children to try!
A recipe for success at Yateley Manor
To explore this incredible recipe, call Tanja on 01252 405500 or visit www.yateleymanor.com
They have an extraordinary enrichment programme which promotes the life-skills needed for everyday life, develop 'softskills' that employers and universities look for, while also giving pupils the opportunity to find out more about their interests and Inpassions.Reception they offer three times more qualified teacher time which enables them to teach two adult led Maths and Literacy sessions per week compared to the bi-weekly sessions in most state schools. In the Prep school they have specialist teachers in Art, DT, Languages, PE, Swimming, Music, Dance, Drama and Outdoor Education.
Jubilee Day Nursery’s sensory garden
To find out more, book onto their Open Morning on Friday 30 September, visit www.sherfieldschool.co.uk
Jubilee’s sensory garden is also blooming with lots of beautiful flowers and plants to encourage lots of wildlife. They have a bug chart to note all the bugs and insects that make the garden their home… the children’s bug hotels are particularly popular with the resident creepy crawlies! Find out more at www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk
4EDUCATION
September/October 2022Families Hampshire North
What makes Alton School and Nursery stand out?
The Yateley Manor method is a school where every member of staff is dedicated to the success of every individual child. Teachers who are experts in their fields. A school that offers strong relationships between children, staff and families, where every child is safe and feels cared for. Regular and timely communication about where a child is in their learning and how they can improve. An abundance of opportunities for children to explore new talents and build confidence and effective preparation for your child’s next school and successful adult life. Place together and mix with care and support.
Overton accredited Montessori, set in the heart of the beautiful village of Overton, provides educational care for children aged 2 to 7 years.
Maria Montessori believed that the intellectual skills develop when a child’s learning process stimulates as many senses as possible.
It's for everyone. Whilst children are looking at books or joining in with an activity, you can use free WiFi, free public computers or public printers. Libraries also offer a range of free coursesincluding paediatric first aid – so ask about learning in Libraries next time you visit.
It’s fun. Encourage your kids to take part at the library, so whether that’s a free activity like construction club or storytime, or just a chance to relax and share books together - the only rule is you need to be willing to have fun!
At Overton Montessori, children get to experience a wide range of group activities such as: French, multi sports, ballet, yoga and wellbeing, a Forest School, gardening and weekly cooking which often incorporates fresh produce from the Allgarden.teachers provide caring continuity and provide each child with their own key worker. There is a very high ratio of teachers to children, all are Montessori trained or qualified teachers, offering a wide range of experience.
Visit the Roald Dahl Story Day hub at www.roalddahl.com/ roald-dahl-story-day for resources to decorate your home or classroom.
Early years learning at Overton Montessori
Join fans from all over the world to celebrate favourite Roald Dahl characters, stories and moments. Get dressed up as your favourite Roald Dahl character at a Dahlicious Dress Up Day event being held at school, by community groups and libraries,or host your own by downloading the Roald Dahl Story Day Party.
Fantastic reasons why your family should join the library today!
CBBC star Gemma Hunt is publishing her first children’s book, a fun, mixed-race retelling of the stories of Jesus, which aims to teach children how to be good friends to one another.
It builds social skills and confidence. Libraries are busy places, so joining in an activity like Rhymetime can really help prepare younger children for nursery, playgroup or school. If your child needs a quieter place or time, ask and staff can suggest when to visit and where to go.
A Good Friend can be purchased at www.spckpublishing. co.uk/a-good-friend
September/October 2022 Families Hampshire North 5
It’s free! Joining the library costs you nothing, so if you live, work or study in Hampshire you can join online or by visiting your closest library. There are 40 libraries in Hampshire and they’re also all open on Saturday – why not make a visit to the library your family’s regular weekend treat!
The nursery is carefully designed in a large spacious environment and there is a fantastic outdoor classroom where children get to experience working with many natural Bothactivities.theindoor and outdoor classrooms are free flow every day, giving children many different opportunities to explore and experience all areas of learning within their Montessori environment. Children maintain a free work cycle during the day, allowing them to choose independently and at their own individual pace.
She has also revealed that she feels ‘immense responsibility’ as a children’s TV presenter to be a good role model to the children who watch her.
The presenter decided to write the new stories after being unable to find any children’s books which featured a mixedheritage family like her own.
To find out more or to arrange a tour call 01256 770197/ 07748 642166 or visit www.the-childrens-house.co.uk
LOCAL NEWS
It supports education. Reading is a vital life skill and if you can make it fun even better. There are story books, fact books, eAudiobooks, eBooks, digital magazines, graphic novels, picture books… all designed to make reading enjoyable.
Every year, the life and works of one of the best children’s authors of all time is celebrated on his birthday, 13 September.
CBBC star writes mixed-race storybook on friendship
During his lifetime, Roald Dahl wrote twenty children’s books and published forty eight books altogether. He created over five hundred new words and character names and his books have sold more than two hundred and fifty million copies worldwide.
Find out more by visiting www.hants.gov.uk/library Celebrate Roald Dahl Story Day
A Good Friend features a mixed-race family as the main characters and aims, according to Gemma ‘to give Jesus a face which isn’t the ‘stereotypical, blonde-haired and blue-eyed Jesus so many of us grew up with.’
September/October 2022Families Hampshire North
How do you help pupils who need extra academic support?
What did you want to be when you grew up? I’m not sure I have fully grown up yet so am still undecided; but most likely striker for the mighty Arsenal.
In what way is St Neot's Prep School different from other schools?
What attracted you to St Neot's Prep School? It's hard to know where to start as St Neot’s is overflowing with amazing reasons to join. Some might be taken by our world class sporting facilities, others by our amazing 70 acre site. Many parents would highlight our outstanding academic provision and pastoral care, but for me it is the St Neot’s community that really attracted me to the school. Staff, Governors, children and parents all feel totally involved and vested in the school. It makes for a wonderfully positive place to work.
How do you think a head can make a real difference to an individual pupil?
I would expect to be described by the pupils as a Head who knows everyone, cares deeply about everyone and is happy to have a laugh with everyone. What was it about St Neot's Prep School that made you want to apply for the position? I very much felt at home at St Neot’s from the day I started because we share the same values. St Neot’s is a kind, respectful, honest and happy school. I also lived just around the corner. What do you think are the key skills that children should be mastering at the start of their school journey?
What would you like to achieve over the next couple of years and beyond?
I would like to have been a judge on Strictly Come Dancing or an astronaut. That said, I would most likely still be in advertising as I cannot dance and have a fear of heights.
What is your most useless skill?
Mastering learning skills is fundamental to a successful prep school education. The St Neot’s Learning Skills of Collaboration, Leadership, Reviewing and Improving, Independence, Communication and Thinking and Learning are interwoven into the learning experience for all children, ensuring they leave fully prepared for the next stage of their education. How would you describe the ethos of St Neot's Prep School? We are an ambitious school where community, family values and a love and appreciation of the outdoors are central to everything we do. Most importantly, we all have fun.
What does being a Head mean to you?
EDUCATION6Meetthe
Head: St Neot's Prep School
Like all private schools we provide an outstanding academic journey for every child and have robust pastoral systems in place. We also have incredible facilities. The children at St Neot’s are incredibly polite, positive and good humoured. It creates an enviable atmosphere that all prospective parents sense when they visit the school.
The best intervention is through good classroom practice in small class sizes. For children who require further help, we run booster groups and offer 1-1 lessons. We have a full time SENCO who champions all the children who need that little extra help, who is ably supported by three full time level 5 and level 7 trained one-to-one specialist teachers.
Meet SpecialHeadthefeature
Great teachers are those who care deeply about every individual in their class and who will stop at nothing to ensure the children receive a first class, personalised learning journey while feeling safe, valued and supported while at school.
What are the qualities of a great teacher?
Oh, so much! I am hugely ambitious for the school and for every child who comes to St Neot’s. Some highlights would be: milking every advantage for our children through our collaboration with Lord Wandsworth College; establishing St Neot’s as a leading Prep School for it’s mental health support and provision; making sure every teaching space is as inspiring as it can be; investing heavily in the professional development of our teachers and most importantly, ensuring that St Neot’s maintains and embraces the things that already make it so special. If you weren’t Head of St Neot's Prep School what would you be?
I am extremely good at Ping Pong. What is your real-life superpower? My glass is always half full, if not even fuller than that. Favourite book? 'Open' - the simply incredible Andre Agassi autobiography. To find out more about St Neot's Prep School, come along to one of their open days on Wed 21 Sept or Fri 30 Sept or visit www.stneotsprep.co.uk
How do you think your students would describe you?
Families chats to Jonathan Slot, Head of St Neot's Prep School in Eversley, Hook
I hope to make a real difference to every pupil at St Neot’s. By knowing every child at the school, always having a genuine interest in what they are up to, celebrating their successes and helping them find the right path if needed. Being their cheerleader with senior schools, teaching them in class, modelling good character or by that quick chat at the end of play with words of wisdom or encouragement.
Simply, it means the world. Since leaving the advertising world 12 years ago, it has been my dream to lead my own prep school. It is a hugely responsible and challenging role but at the same time it is an honour and a privilege to be entrusted with academic and pastoral welfare of children. I am leading my best life.
By Emma Lewry
English is a tricky language and sometimes the same letters make different sounds.
Top Tips • Practise recognising the sounds.
hear or read ‘c’, ‘a’, ‘t’ and need to put the sounds together to make This‘cat.’
For example, say separate sounds, a bit like a robot, and get your child to blend them together to make the word. You can do this in sentences e.g. put on your ‘c’, ‘oa’, ‘t’ or let’s go to the ‘p’, ‘ar’, ‘k’. Try I spy with whole words split up or hide some pictures for children to hunt for. The idea is you say the sounds of the object in the pictures separately and they blend them so they know what they are hunting!
Oral blending is the skill to practise here. Oral blending means hearing separate sounds and putting them together without reading the letters too. It’s really helpful to practise lots of oral blending with your children from as young as the age of 2.
EDUCATION MONTESSORIOVERTONSCHOOLSt.Luke’sHall,WinchesterStreet,OvertonRG253HTCALLTHETEAMON01256770197OR07748642166Welookforwardtohearingfromyou……Weofferafriendly,secureandhappylearningenvironmenttonurtureandprotectyouryounglearners.LargeoutsidegardenofferingaforestschoolenvironmentalongwithBallet,Sports,French,CookingandNatureWalks. Term Time Monday - Friday 9am - 3pm An Accredited Montessori for 2-7 year olds
For you and anyone who has a child due to start school, here are some tips to get you both closer to full admittance of the phonics club! What is phonics?
Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, headteacher and mother of two. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd. co.uk) which guides families through starting school with courses, groups and a school starters planner.
skill can be a real stumbling block for children because they are working so hard to recognise the sounds that they can’t put them together easily.
• Your child will be taught phonics in a specific way at school so ask them to teach you. It’s a great way for them to test their understanding.
Families Hampshire North 7 phonicsUnderstanding
For example, ‘i’ can sound short as in ‘fish’ or have a longer sound like ‘eye’ in ‘find’. There are different groups of letters that make sounds: a digraph is two letters that go together to make one sound e.g. ‘ch’ in chop. A trigraph is three letters together making one sound e.g. ‘ear’ in As‘near’.children develop their knowledge, they build up and put together all of the sounds they recognise in order to read and write.
Phonics is one of those things that feels like a secret clubsome people understand it and to others it’s gobbledegook! If you have a child at school, they’re part of ‘the club’ and they may look askance at you when you ask what a digraph or blending is.
Phonics is a way of teaching children to read and later write. It is based on the fact that letters and groups of letters make sounds and when we put those sounds together they make words.
• Help children to spot when two or three letters work together to make one sound e.g ‘ai’ in ‘rain’ and ‘igh’ in ‘light’.
The Tindims of Rubbish Island by Sally Gardner, illustrated by Lydia Correy The first in a new series exploring our impact on the environment. Meet Captain Spoons, Mug, Jug, Brew, Skittle and friends, all residents of Rubbish Island, which the inventive Tindims have built entirely from thrown away items.
BOOKS
When 9 year old Callum is given a certificate to adopt a panda for his birthday, the two come together... and pandemonium ensues! Velda the Awesomest Viking and the Voyage of Deadly Doom by David MacPhail, illustrated by Richard Morgan Velda might be small but she is certainly mighty. Nothing will stop her from taking to the high seas to earn her place on the dragon ship Valkyrie, along with a wonderful, colourful cast of characters. Alien in the Jam Factory by Chrissie Sains, illustrated by Jenny Taylor Get ready for aliens, jam, doughnuts, snails, one dastardly villain and a brilliant kid fizzing with ideas! Young inventor Scooter and his alien buddy Fizzbee team up to outwit Daffy Dodgy in a hilarious new adventure.
Dragon Storm by Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Eric Deschamps and Ben Mantle Tomas can’t believe it when a mysterious stranger invites him to join a secret society and tells him that he has a very special power… he can summon his very own dragon! With a medieval setting and a strong dose of fantasy, this is the first in a thrilling new series.
By Sarah Campbell
Noodle the Doodle by Jonathan Meres, illustrated by Katy Halford
The children of Wigley Primary love having Noodle the Doodle at school and are thrilled that he’s coming on the class trip to the seaside. But will Noodle be on his best behaviour or will the day end in chaos? Perfect for young dog-lovers.
There’s a Dog in My Brain by Caroline Green, illustrated by Rikin Parekh When Danny made a wish to stay home instead of going to a family wedding, he didn’t expect to end up trapped in the body of a dog. Meanwhile, Dudley the dog is off on the adventure of a lifetime. He might look like a normal 10 year old boy, but can he behave like one?
Brilliant first chapter books for early readers
September/October 2022Families Hampshire North8 EDUCATION
When your child is ready to move on from picture books, there are some wonderful first chapter books aimed at children ages 5 to 9. Many are highly illustrated, with stories that will last over the course of a few reading sessions. Here are some of our recent favourites, all available through your friendly local independent store or www.bookshop.org
Sarah Campbell is co-founder of Parrot Street Book Club (www.parrotstreet.com), an award-winning monthly subscription book club for children ages 5 to 14. Each subscription box includes a brand new book plus an activity pack inspired by that particular book.
Panda at the Door written and illustrated by Sarah Horne Pudding the Panda of Edinburgh Zoo really wants a family to take care of, just like her heroine, Mary Poppins.
The Marvellous Granny Jinks and Me by Serena Patel, illustrated by Selom Sunu When Jada Jinks finds a box of magic tricks in her granny’s flat, she uncovers her granny’s secret dream of becoming a magician. Inspired by the first black woman to be admitted to the Magic Circle, this is a fun, inclusive and magical story, with tricks!
Looking for a Reception Class place? Based in Hook, Hampshire Pre-book at www.sherfieldschool.co.uk Nursery Junior Prep Senior Prep Seniors Sixth Form Come and take a look around at our Junior Prep Open Morning - Friday 30 September 2022
At the end of each session, write down what you have covered in three bullet points. That way if your child gets another homework on the same topic, you can remember what you covered. These will also come in handy if you have a younger child or for end of year tests.
By Jemma Zoe Smith
September/October 2022 Families Hampshire North EDUCATION9
This year, I supported two students with exam preparation and covered over fifteen different subjects with them - only three of those subjects are my specialism. So here is what I have learnt about supporting children in subjects in which you are not confident yourself.
If the methods that your child uses are not familiar to you, don’t worry. YouTube, BBC Bitesize, Oak Academy and IXL are your
friends. Simply type in your child’s year and the topic that they are studying (often found at the top of the worksheet) and the subject e.g. Year 4 - bus stop method, maths, into Google.
It can be useful to start a session by running through a video with your child. Depending on their age, you may want to run through the video first before looking over it with them. This also really helps you focus and ensures you have your head around the topic sufficiently to be able to help explain it further to your child or answer their questions. If your child is struggling with something specific, reach out to the school and ask them if they can point you in the direction of some practice that you can do with your child. Remember you are all on the same team. Use parents evening to ask what topics are coming up and to find out when exams are. Forewarned is forearmed.
As children settle back in at school for a new academic year, parents also settle back into the routine of being called upon by their children to help them with homework. But what if you have very limited time, you are not across the school’s expectations or you simply aren’t familiar with the topic?
As a busy parent, you may only have a short amount of time in which to work with your child. Make sure that you both have clear expectations about what you will be able to achieve. If you only have twenty minutes, you may not be able to finish their homework together but you may be able to tackle a few key problems before they complete the rest themselves. So that your time with them is productive, set goals and a timer. Goals help you prioritise and the timer prevents you from watching the clock. Your child will also have your undivided attention during this time.
Jemma Zoe Smith is Director of The Education Hotel (www.educationhotel.co.uk).
Oh dear! I can’t help my child with this
Judo Martial arts like Judo are especially suitable for the lively individualist, developing confidence, discipline, focus and fitness. They offer a constructive outlet for excess physical energy.
By Andrew Campbell Out of school activities offer your child the opportunity to try their hand at something new, develop an existing interest, have fun, get exercise and socialise and make friends outside of school.
Dance Not only great for physical health such as flexibility, co-ordination and strength, dance is also beneficial for mental health, as it helps with socialisation, as well as being creative and expressive.
Kitchen fun If you have an aspiring chef, cooking classes are great fun and will teach basic life skills and healthy eating. Online options are now available too.
Languages By starting early, your child will learn faster and more easily; being bilingual improves problem solving skills, concentration and boosts brain power.
Music As well as the simple enjoyment, music classes are a great way to explore talent and develop abilities like patience and discipline. New Whatever their age, trying a new activity encourages a child to be adventurous and learn new skills. Age brings change, so keep looking for the next challenge.
Performing arts Children who tomostimprovecommunicationsing/dance/act/play/learnskills,gainconfidence,academicperformanceandimportantly,canusetheseclassesletoffsteamandhavefun.
Quiet For the naturally quiet or physically small, chess offers children as young as age 4 the chance to make friends and improve self-esteem. Junior clubs operate throughout the UK.
Testimonials To ensure you choose the right class and get value for money, request testimonials from a provider, seek out other parents’ opinions and look online and on social media before signing your child up.
For the child who thrives on adrenalin and risk, consider rock climbing, tree top walking, abseiling, orienteering, circus, go-karting, trampolining or even Parkour.
September/October 2022Families Hampshire North10CLUBS & CLASSES
Football As well the most popular sport in the world, football is one of the most wellrounded, developing a host of physical, social and cognitive skills.
Rugby Rugby is a great way for children to exercise while learning respect and how to work and function as part of a team.
We’ve put together an A to Z to help guide your selection process.
Horse riding Offering both adventure and responsibility, this surprisingly vigorous activity in the great outdoors teaches children about empathy and caring for another living creature.
Gymnastics A demanding sport, requiring perseverance and discipline, gymnastics develops strength, speed, coordination, flexibility and balance. Mastering complex physical feats helps children face and overcome fears.
Swimming Ever popular, swimming offers a host of benefits including cardiovascular exercise, improving strength, flexibility, stamina, balance and posture.
Xtreme
Yoga Ideal for the anxious or easily distracted, children learn to manage stress and develop concentration through breathing, awareness, meditation and healthy movement. Zumba A high energy combination of dance and exercise, these fun classes will get young ones moving with enthusiasm.
Virtual In the last two years, many providers have gone online, so if you can’t find a physical class locally, you’re sure to find something virtually.
Coding As well as preparing them for the future, classes in coding and robotics teach children logical thinking, maths skills and complex problem solving.
Offers and trials Test your child’s interest in an activity with free taster days offered at the end of summer and free trials at the start of term.
Exercise From toddlers up, children can get involved in regular, simple low-cost exercise classes like local mini-athletics and sports options or, junior park run clubs.
Babies Music, movement and/or sensory classes are particularly suitable as they are designed to help your young baby’s social and physical skills develop. They are also a great opportunity to meet local parents.
Under the radar When researching options, keep in mind old favourites like cubs and brownies or the more unusual like sea cadets, fencing, photography and film making.
The A to Z of clubs and classes
Interests Be led by your child’s interests when choosing an activity. If they enjoy doing an activity at home, they are more likely to commit to a regular class.
Art and craft From painting to pottery, art and craft is great for exploring your child’s creative talents and for simply just getting messy outside of the home.
Tens of thousands of children will be given the chance to learn a new instrument as part of a new national plan for music education in the UK.
More music education in schools
Confidence starts in the water Water Babies leading swim programme has been developed to build water confidence and life skills throughout your little one’s first five years. You’ll love nothing more than seeing their progression as your little one moves from fun floating, kicking and splashing to swimming independently. Not only will your little one develop key aquatic skills, but they'll also give them the knowledge to keep themselves safe. And with Water Babies, you’re learning from the best. Their teachers hold Swim England’s highest qualification in baby swimming and they’re the most passionate around, ready to guide you and your little one at every breath, kick and stroke of their journey.
This term, Perform 4-7s will venture into The Magician's Chamber for some confidence-building fun with Merlin the Wizard whilst 7-12s will work on a funky festive performance of Ebenezer, based on Charles Dicken's classic, A Christmas Carol. The term runs from September to December and children are welcome to try a free class at any point.
To find out more and for local classes email: splishsplash@ waterbabies.co.uk
Give the autumn term a confidence boost with Perform A common struggle shared by many children as they start school or return after the summer break is a lack of confidence, and this can stop them reaching their full potential. Whether you're looking for a confidence boost for your child or just a weekly dose of drama, dance and singing fun, Perform is back for the autumn term with two exciting productions for 4-7s and 7-12s. “Perform is not a stage school” stresses Perform Principal, Lucy Quick. “Our classes teach life skills using fun confidenceboosting drama games which results in a celebratory end of term production. The primary aim of our classes is to develop what we call the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication."
September/October 2022 Families Hampshire North 11 CLUBS & CLASSES Clubs & Classes News
Local venues available at: Andover: Andover Leisure Centre, SP10 1QP Basingstoke: Beggarwood Community Centre, RG22 4AQ Bramley: Clift Meadow Pavillion, RG26 5BH Fleet: Zebon Community Centre, GU52 0ZE Hartley Whitney: Victoria Halls, RG27 8RQ To book a free no-obligation trial class visit www.perform.org. uk/try
The plan sets out the government’s ambition to give ‘every child the opportunity to develop a love of music.’ Made in consultation with music teachers and young people in the music industry, it involves a raft of new investments and measures to support music Twentyeducation.fivemillion will be made available for schools to purchase musical instruments and equipment, including adapted instruments for children with special education needs and Schoolsdisabilities.willbe asked to offer at least one hour of music curriculum a week. Every school will be expected to have a designated music lead or head of department.
Would you like to feature your business in our next issue? Book your space today! Call Claire on 07812 218 331 RebeccaOr on 07789882467 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Book by 7 Oct
18 HarvestSept Fair Gilbert White's House, Selborne, GU34 3JH Celebrate the changing of the seasons and take the opportunity to revamp your garden. They will have a range of plant stalls selling everything from perennials to shrubs and grasses and more, as well as food and drink and demonstrations! 10.30am-5pm.
good
12CHILDREN’SWhat's On listings for all the family
To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing. Email editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk.
Throughout Sep & Oct Gruffalo Sculptures Alice Holt Forest, Farnham, GU10 4LS If you venture into the deep dark wood you may bump into the Gruffalo and other characters from Julia Donaldson’s fantastic story! Each sculpture has been carved in a different position unique to Alice Holt Forest, and they bring this much-loved story to life in the forest. Every RhymetimeThursday
10 & 24 Sep Peter Rabbit and Friends Storytime Corn Exchange Newbury, RG14 5BD Join our special Saturday morning storytelling sessions with MerryGo-Round Storytelling where the wonderful world of Peter Rabbit will be brought to life. 11am. 15 HeritageSep Open Day at Gilbert White's House Selborne, GU34 3JH Explore the home and gardens of one of Britain’s most innovative naturalists Gilbert White. Learn about the father of ecology whilst enjoying a great day out for free!
16 TheOctVery Hungry Caterpillar Workshop Corn Exchange Newbury, RG14 5BD Make yourself a butterfly friend and take it along to the show! £6 per group (up to 4 people). 10am & 1pm.
Throughout Sep & Oct Superworm Trail Alice Holt Forest, Farnham, GU10 4LS Discover the small but mighty creatures in the much-loved story and learn about the everyday heroic feats of minibeasts in the forest. The self-led trail features brightly illustrated panels and a trail pack full of fun activities, including your very own mask. Ages 3-9. £3.50.
Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print. Don’t forget to sign up for our digital magazine for more interactive content at familiesmagazine.co.uk/go
September/October 2022Families Hampshire North
All listings correct at the time of going to print. Please check with the venue before visiting to ensure events are still going ahead and venues are open.
THEATRE
Basingstoke Discovery Centre Festival Place, RG21 7LS Stories and songs for the under 5's. Parents/carers must remain in the library with their children. 10.30am 5 Sep to 30 Oct Autumn Colour Hunt The Vyne, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL Hunt for flaming reds, golden yellows and rusty browns in the grounds using your autumn colour hunt key available for £1 each at visitor reception. 10 SilkSepMill Food Festival Whitchurch Silk Mill, RG28 7AL A selection of food and drink stalls, weaving demonstrations, children’s craft activities, face painting and cooking demonstrations and children’s workshops. 10.30am4pm. Free. 10 & 11 SteampunkSep Market and Family Day Milestones Museum, Leisure Park, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Browse fantastic trade stalls throughout the museum, with music from the buskers and the main stage where host Duke Box will be bring an abundance of buffoonery with games for all to enjoy!
22 to 30 HalloweenOctHalf Term Milestones Museum, Leisure Park, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Enjoy spooktacular fun at the museum. Have a ghoulishly time as you follow a Halloween trail around Milestones to spot who’s haunting the museum's
buildings... © 2012 & TM Julia Donaldson / Axel Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd. headquarters make headquartersheadquartersSuperhero #SuperwormTrail Callingstickforestsuperheroes!superpoweryour Toad factCreaturecards forestryengland.uk Superwormactivities With fun trail pack SuperwormTrail Join Superworm on a interactivebrand-newtrail at Alice Holt Forest Find out more forestryengland.uk/superwormat: Sign up familiesmag.co.uk/goat Jan/Feb 2022 familiesonline.co.uk IN THIS ISSUE FamilyHealthActivitiesEducationfood FREETAKE HOME FREE!IT’S Get mag!digitalour
Basingstoke Discovery Centre Festival Place, RG21 7LS Thirty minutes of songs, rhymes, rhythm and actions to get your little one moving and singing! 10.30am. Pre-schoolers. Every StorytimeFriday
15 & 16 Oct The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Corn Exchange Newbury, RG14 5BD Dive into Eric Carle’s bright and colourful world as his beloved stories are transformed from page to stage using a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets and charming music. 1pm & 4pm.
17 Sep to 13 Nov We Are Aliens Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Are we alone? Is there life beyond Earth? Let's go on a journey together to find out! We Are Aliens is a subtitled film show. Weekends and School holidays. 11am, 2.15pm. £4 plus admission. Science Starz Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ The contestants are ready. The judges are waiting. It’s 2002 and we’re going back to where it all started. It’s Science Starz, a science show like you’ve never heard before! This Autumn, it's your final chance to take a trip down memory lane with their final show celebrating some of the best show themes and demos from the past 20 years – all with a retro 2002 twist. The last stop is sound. Included in admission.
22 to 30 Hallo’Welly’WeenOct Wellington Country Park, Riseley, RG7 1SP Join us this October half term for our biggest, friendliest spooktacular family fun Halloween week! 22 to 30 HalloweenOctRiddle Trail The Vyne, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL Intrigue and curious conundrums await ages 8+. Ponder brainteasing riddles before using the map to find the mysterious answers. 10am-4pm. Trail sheet and chocolate treat (£2).
Half Term Andover Museum and Museum of the Iron Age, Andover SP10 1DP Visit Andover Museum throughout the week for autumn and Halloween themed crafts, a museum trail and colouring. 10am4pm.
28 Owl-O-WeenOct Hawk Conservancy Trust, Andover SP11 8DY Prepare for a wickedly spooktacular family evening this Halloween. Enjoy ghostly storytelling and marvel at the owls as they put on a beautiful flying display against the backdrop of moonlit grounds. 6-8pm.
WHAT'S ON
30 Splat!Oct The Arc, Winchester SO23 8SB Set in an artist’s studio, this show follows two aspiring artists - one dedicated and serious, the other erratic and messy! This show is accessible for deaf audiences. Ages 3+. £9pp.
24-31 Oct Half Term: Gothic Garden Trail Chawton House, Alton, GU34 1SJ Bring your little witches and warlocks to fly around Chawton House’s autumnal gardens. Brave the new ‘spooky trail’ and come face to face with wicked witches and ghostly ghouls.
24-30 HalloweenOct Ghost Walks Basing House, Basingstoke, RG24 8AE Be prepared to be spooked at one of the Ghost Tours this Halloween! Wear your best Halloween costume if you dare. Not suitable for younger children. See www. hampshireculture.org.uk for full details.
26 SockOctMonsters West End Centre, Aldershot, GU11 3JD In this creative activity, make your own personalised sock monster using some basic textile skills. Make new friends and make something to take home to show your family and friends. Ages 8+. £13. 10.30am 27 HalloweenOct Food Fun West End Centre, Aldershot, GU11 3JD Get creative and have fun with food! A free drop-in session for all the family. Will you make a spooky sandwich? Or maybe a freaky fairy cake? This session is for any families from the local area who would benefit from a free lunch. All ages. FREE.
With eerie effects and traditional decorations, join in for a wicked wander through the cobbled streets - if you dare!
The Fortune Theatre, Covent Garden WC2B 5HH This October half-term, take your children on a trip back in time as they discover a world of witches, wizards, magic and mystery. In Ancient Britain, Magical Merlin is the most miraculous wizard ever. So, when the baby King Arthur is born and jealous older sister, Morgan Le Fay, starts turning people into animals, it’s down to Merlin to save the day. Magical Merlin is a spectacular mini-musical sure to enchant the whole family. Ages 4–10. Visit www.atgtickets. com to book.
22 to 30 SpooktasticOct
29 MuseumOct by Torchlight Andover Museum and Museum of the Iron Age, Andover SP10 1DP Dress in your spookiest Halloween costumes – if you dare - and enjoy a night at the museum by torchlight, with a spooky craft activity, cauldron lucky dip and ghost stories. Ages 3+. £4 per person. 5.30pm and 7pm.
30 HalloweenOct Party Winchester City Museum, Winchester SO23 9ES Join in for a Halloween party here at Winchester City Museum, complete with all the Halloween fun you would expect - spooky stories, games, crafts and prizes! And of course, come dressed up in your best scary costume. Ages 4-10. 5-7pm. £3 per child.
22 to 30 Oct Egypt!
Children's Festival West End Centre, Aldershot, GU11 3JD 25 MiniOctPainters: Mini Matisse. In this arty activity, children over five and their parents are invited to explore the work of Matisse by recreating versions of one of his most famous works on canvas to take home. Ages 5+. £13 per child. 10.30am-12.30pm. Create your own story How do you write a story? You’ve got everything you need inside you! Come and find out how to create your own story in this fun workshop led by local writer, Stella Wiseman. Ages 8-11. £7. 1.30-2.30pm.
30 SpookyOct Activities The Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery, Basingstoke, RG21 7QD Spooky trails and make-andtakes to help you prepare for your Halloween parties. Ages 4+. 10am-3pm.
The Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery, Basingstoke, RG21 7QD November marks 100 years since the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb by Howard Carter and Hampshire's own Lord Carnarvon. A week of trails, make-and-takes and workshops, taking inspiration from Egyptian artefacts collected by the museum’s founder, Mr Willis. There will be the chance to handle genuine Egyptian artefacts. Ages 4+. Workshop £3 per child.
24-28 MonstrousOct Mess The Arc, Winchester SO23 8SB The messy monsters have come out to play for Halloween! Help them get ready for the ball by decorating their party outfits and helping them strike a pose. Ages4+. 9.30am-1.30pm. £3pp. 24-30 MagicalOctMerlin
September/October 2022 Science Starz Weekends and school holidays 17th September to 13 Music-filled free science show Book now winchestersciencecentre.org
Use this ad for one free child admission in October 2022! Scan here to see all our Half Term Events! Autumnal fun in Selborne Selborne Hampshire GU34 3JH
There are lots of fun activities to do, from exploring Cantref Adventure Farm to running around the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Definitely a full day of fun….
Last (but certainly not least) is the Seven Sisters Country Park (www. sevensisters.org.uk) in East Sussex.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Morden Hall Park (www.nationaltrust. org.uk) is an outdoor oasis in London. This is a great place to escape the concrete jungle with the whole family. There are even cafes along the way. As well as this, children under 5 can take part in the Park Explorers programme and enjoy story-led activities.
Old Sarum
The Welsh countryside is home to a multitude of walks. To get started, visit Brecon Beacons National Park (www.breconbeacons.org).
The great British countryside is full of stunning walks that are fun for the whole family. Here are ten examples that are suitable for getting the whole family outdoors. Why not have a day out this half term or take a short break near one of them? If we get decent rain during the autumn, these walks will also be delightfully muddy! And what child can resist a muddy puddle? So get your outdoor gear on, because you’re about to have a tonne of fun!
The whole family can enjoy a walk through Ham Gardens. From building birdhouses to playing in the Family Tasting Garden, the grounds offer lots of fun activities for children of all ages.
If you’re eager to visit the seaside, this stretch of coastline is the place for you.
Yorkshire is home to some of the most beautiful country walks in England, including Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens (www.nationaltrust.org.uk). There are miles of walking paths on offer, from the Ripon and Fountains Abbey walk to the Lost Spa trail. Regardless of where you choose to walk, if it rains the grass will be green and the hills will invariably be muddy.
A sight to behold, Ham House (www.nationaltrust.org.uk) is a seventeenth-century manor in Surrey.
Stowe
The South Downs National Park spans one hundred miles but you’re able to walk a fraction of the distance and come across a host of wildlife. Instantly recognisable, the chalk cliffs offer the perfect backdrop for your adventure.
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens
walks for autumn
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens
Ham House and Garden
Seven Sisters Country Park
Ham House and Garden
Stowe
Tegg’s Nose Country Park (www.teggsnose.co.uk) in Cheshire is teeming with trails and families of all ages can enjoy exploring the grassy fields.
To explore the muddy countryside and learn about English history, you can take your family on a walk to Old Sarum (www. english-heritage.org.uk) in Wiltshire.
Morden Hall Park
Old Sarum
In addition to Old Sarum, Stowe (www.nationaltrust.org.uk) is another walk in Buckinghamshire in the south of TheEngland.countryside is breath taking and the grounds of Stowe are no different. You can stroll around the lake and through the forest. Families are also allowed to walk their dogs as long as they are on a lead.
Tegg’s Nose Country Park
The structure, otherwise known as the Iron Age Hillfort of Old Sarum, was first built around 400BC. For an experience like no other, wrap up warm and embark on a muddy walk to remember for years to come.
The Gritstone Trail, which runs from Disley to Kidsgrove, travels through Tegg’s Nose. The country park also has a tearoom you can enjoy at the beginning or the end of your walk.
14AUTUMNFamily-friendly
Brecon Beacons National Park
September/October 2022Families Hampshire North
September/October 2022 Families Hampshire North 15 HALF TERM
Treasure hunt
Isabell Fisher is co-founder of Little Hands Learning, an educational and eco-friendly subscription box for children ages 3 to 6. For more ideas, visit www.littlehandslearning.co.uk/activities
Boosted books Reading to your kids is great but don’t limit the experience to sitting on the sofa. If the book is set in a cave, evict the vacuum cleaner from under the stairs and issue everyone with head torches! If you’re reading a desert adventure, create a Bedouin tent using some sheets and your clothes horse.
Screen-free rainy day activities
It’s important that children are tech-savvy but there is very little evidence that screentime contributes to a child’s cognitive ability. Screens are so appealing because of their continually changing content so any activities that we attempt at home with the kids need to be equally appealing to little hands, eyes and brains. Here are a few activities that are easy to set up if you need to keep the kids entertained this half term or you’re stuck at home during a rainy weekend. You probably have most of what you need at home already.
This doesn’t need to be overly complicated. Often keeping it simple is far better than creating something elaborate. Try making a paper boat and see how far it travels or create tealight holders out of old jam jars by gluing on pieces of tissue paper. These also make lovely presents for grandparents.
This is a fun way for kids to learn about design and teamwork. All you need is a piece of paper, some pens, some counters (maybe toy figures), some dice and some rules. Involve your children in working out how the game works and create and decorate your board before playing!
Playdough This is a versatile toy but if the smell and texture of big-branded playdough is something you’re not keen on, there are some wonderful options for soft and scented playdough that doesn’t leave a greasy residue. Just check that the playdough has been UKCA tested before buying.
By Isabell Fisher
Easy experimentsscience There are lots of easy science experiments that can be tried at home with household items and they encourage kids to ask questions, make predictions and understand the world around them. Try making a lava lamp with water, food colouring and oil in a jar. Add an effervescent tablet and watch what happens!
Baking Baking shortbread and scones is simple enough for inexperienced bakers to try and hopefully they will taste great! Baking bread is also surprisingly simple and you and your children can have lots of fun creating different animals out of the dough to then bake in the oven.
Painting Children love to paint but the mess can fill many parents with dread. Instead of using poster paint, try using watercolour paints which are easier to clean up. To change things up, get the kids painting on coffee filters, a canvas or ice cubes.
Choose something to be the treasure, hide it and then create a map for your kids to follow. Make it more interesting (and last longer) by having the map lead your little pirates to different locations where each location’s ‘treasure’ is a clue to the next location. To make the map look more ‘authentic,’ scrunch up the paper and stain it with a damp teabag.
Design a board game
Art and craft
September/October 2022Families Hampshire North16 register: altonschool.co.uk Little stars to bright sparks Educating boys and girls from six months to Sixth Form School Open Event 24 Sept Nursery in action 14 Oct Come and join our family school Yateley Manor OpportunityNurture Growth Open Mornings Friday 23rd September Saturday 15th October www.yateleymanor.comadmissions@yateleymanor.com Maisie Story BakerSwimmerMusicianWriter
