Families Hampshire North Sep/Oct 23 PRINT issue

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Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 07789 882467

Sales Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk 07812 218331

Next issue: November/December

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Welcome

So, the new school year rolls around again and your child is heading off to school with bright and shiny new uniform and gear and hopefully a big smile; leaving you with perhaps just a little time on your hands to delve into our great Education feature and explore how to support your child’s learning this year.

And it won’t be long before your child starts to get excited about half term and in particular, Halloween, get inspired by our fab haunted house craft project, as well as our sensory play ideas.

And if you’re not looking forward to the nights drawing in and your thoughts are already turning to next year’s holidays, get inspired by the kind of destinations you could head to in 2024 for a great family break.

Look out for our fabulous True’s Mushroom House Playset giveaway. Apply inside and you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer. Finally, after eight years as editor of Families Hampshire North, it's time for me to say goodbye. I wanted to say a huge thank you to all the readers, advertiser, suppliers and collaborators who have supported me with this fabulous small local business and I wish Lesley Chambers the best of luck when she takes over in September.

Rebecca x In this issue

© Families Hampshire North 2023. 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.

Celebrating different learning styles

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

Just as none of us look the same, everyone is born with tendencies towards certain learning styles when developing literacy, language and motor skills. Recognising your child’s learning style is important in understanding how they access their learning, particularly if they appear to be struggling in certain areas.

Visual learners rely on what they see. Encourage them to use visual aids, sit at the front of the class and write down or draw information.

Kinesthetic learners learn best through doing and moving. They benefit from using tools, acting out or role-playing new information and having freedom of movement.

Auditory learners learn best through hearing and listening. Engage in discussions about what they are learning, read stories out loud and repeat information.

Solitary learners absorb information independently of other people. Let them make notes and recite back, provide quiet learning spaces and give opportunities for sharing their learning.

Verbal learners respond well to written or spoken words. Play word games, use rhymes, acronyms and mnemonics, read their writing aloud, encourage discussion and debate.

Logical learners use logic and structures in order to learn effectively. Provide problem-solving tasks, challenge them to work things out for themselves and have them verbalise ideas and answers.

Identifying your child’s learning style

Observe how your child naturally interacts with the world around them and also note weaknesses: what types of tasks do they find challenging?

Watch how your child expresses themselves. Children will be more expressive through their natural learning style. Auditory learners express themselves best through words whilst visual learners are more apt to reveal their emotions through facial expressions. Kinesthetic learners use more body language and may seem unable to stop themselves fidgeting.

Consider your child’s interests. These will likely reflect their learning styles. Auditory learners usually show an interest in music and sounds. Visual learners often have interests both in reading, watching TV and looking at interesting objects. With kinesthetic learners, look for an interest in physical activities.

See how your child solves problems. Children lean into their learning styles. Auditory learners tend to talk through and discuss possible solutions whilst visual learners use their eyes to solve problems. Kinesthetic learners will usually try to solve problems with their hands.

Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.

Being flexible around learning styles

As important as it is to understand and support your child with simple strategies to help them learn in the way that suits them best, it’s also helpful to encourage and embrace new ideas and a more flexible approach to their learning.

Recent research has concluded that teaching children to use one specific learning style over others may not be entirely beneficial within the classroom setting. Sticking to what you perceive as your preferred learning style can create limitations, giving a false belief that learning can only be managed in one particular way. The most important thing is for a child to have the time to self-reflect on how they learn best and to be encouraged to experiment with tackling problems from a variety of angles.

It is also important to note that over time a child’s learning styles can change as they develop and progress through their own personal growth and their educational journey. Every child is unique and learning style is just one part of the greater way that your child learns.

Why different learning styles?

While the information people receive might be the same, each of our brains processes information differently, influenced by several factors, one of which is learning style.

Your child’s tendencies and preferences for learning can be influenced by peers, cultures, age, their own experiences and available educational materials. What works for one child doesn’t necessarily work for the next.

Understanding the preferred styles of different learners can greatly impact their successes in the classroom as well as contributing to their own sense of personal development and achievement.

With the help of observant parents and teachers, children can benefit from understanding and engaging their natural tendencies. But, it is a rare child who solely works best with one style alone. By understanding and practising a range of different learning styles, a child will have a bigger ‘toolbox’ to call on, finding a combination that enhances their ability to understand, recall and use the information they learn.

Making the most of Parents’ Evening

By Justina Gapper

As the new school year gets going, many parents will be anticipating talking to their child’s teacher(s) at a Parents’ Evening. Depending on the school, these consultations will happen at least once a year, sometimes more frequently. If your child is in Reception, this may be a new experience; if you have older children, you may have been to several or even many Parents’ Evenings already.

It’s almost impossible to ask questions of teachers at school drop-offs and pick-ups, so for most parents, the booked Parents’ Evening slot is the only real opportunity for a proper chat with their child’s teaching staff. Therefore it’s really important to maximise the time available in these one-to-one consultations and make sure you get all the information you need.

What to expect

While Parents’ Evenings will vary slightly in format from school to school and year to year, at a minimum you should expect to hear how your child is performing in numeracy and literacy against the expected levels for their age group.

Much more information will be conveyed as your child gets older. Consultations may also cover your child’s behaviour, levels of effort and social and emotional development.

Be prepared

This may sound obvious but unless you want to risk discovering that all the questions you want to ask have vanished from your head, write them down in the run up to Parent’s Evening to make sure you cover them.

Let the teacher speak

If you do have specific questions, it’s best to let the teacher speak first so that they can cover everything they need. The exception is if you need clarification or your question is related to what is being discussed at that moment.

Don’t compare

Try not to focus on comparing your child’s progress with his/her peers or even siblings. The teacher will focus on how your child is achieving against expected levels for their age. It isn’t useful to ask how their performance compares to others in the class. Stay focussed on your own child.

Focus on your child’s level of effort

Don’t underestimate the importance of effort. This is as important as achievement as it reveals a lot about your child’s behaviour, character and motivation. How your child gets on with teachers and peers socially is also very important.

For a quick overview

Ask about your child’s strengths and weaknesses. This will give you a good idea of their overall performance and help you identify the areas in which you should be offering more support at home.

Deal with unexpected news productively

You may hear something about your child that you are not expecting. If this is about a negative aspect of their behaviour or performance in a specific learning area, this may be difficult both to hear and accept.

Try not to get defensive. A teacher I spoke to told me of a consultation during which a father became very accusatory and angry, insisting that the teacher’s perception was incorrect as his child ‘didn’t struggle at home.’ If you do hear something unexpected, ask how you can work with your child to better support them. Teachers may have already prepared a response to this question in advance.

Writing notes

Don’t attempt to write more than a couple of bullet points while the consultation is happening, otherwise you may miss something important that’s being said.

Justina Gapper is mother of twins, journalist and communications specialist.

Write a summary

Now is the time to make a written record of what was said. This can be useful to show other family members but also as a reminder for yourself in the coming months.

Don’t worry, you can see the teacher again

Don’t fret too much if you do feel that there was something that you wanted to talk about but didn’t get the chance. Ask to meet the teacher again, even on a regular basis, if you feel this is warranted.

How can AI support dyslexia?

By Usha Patel

Recently, the parent of a dyslexic student expressed their concern to me about their son’s preference for writing essays longhand instead of using speech-to-text software. Despite being offered assistive technology, he found that writing and rewriting by hand helped organise his jumbled thoughts and process ideas effectively.

Assistive technology plays a significant role in education, supporting students in all kinds of ways. Spelling and grammar software, for example, is widely used and not just by individuals with dyslexia. It helps improve spelling, grammar, punctuation and sentence structure. These tools enhance the ideas generated by individuals and guide them to ensure accuracy.

Artificial intelligence (AI) takes assistive technology a step further. When asked a question, Natural language processing tool ChatGPT can provide multiple options and ideas, serving as a valuable starting point. However, some individuals with dyslexia, particularly those who struggle with reading, may find it challenging to sift through the responses. So, what can be done to maximise its usefulness?

Education specific AI tools

AI technology can help bring some order to students’ ideas and form them into coherent arguments. This is something that assistive technology cannot do alone. For example, if the student who prefers writing longhand had access to AI technology that could assist him both in writing up his thoughts and managing paragraphs into a logical order, it would greatly benefit him.

With repeated use, the student could acquire the necessary techniques himself and learn the organisation process independently.

Natural language processing tools like ChatGPT can suggest improvements, correct factual errors and enhance the readability of content. This can be especially valuable for dyslexic individuals who struggle with remembering and recalling details, such as in a history project where dates and facts must be accurate.

Overall, AI technology can be a powerful ally in education, assisting students with dyslexia in organising their thoughts and enhancing their overall learning experience.

On the other hand, an over-reliance on AI could inhibit a child’s ability to think creatively for themselves. Take our use of mobile phones for example. We no longer have to remember frequently dialed numbers until we lose our phones. How many numbers from your phone can you remember yourself? AI should therefore be used in moderation.

Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist at Raviv Practice London. If you are interested in learning more about what therapies and methods could be combined with AI to help a dyslexic child achieve their potential, visit www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk

Using AI effectively with dyslexic

While AI can be a valuable tool, there are a few considerations to keep in mind for students with dyslexia:

Personalised learning needs: Every student with dyslexia has their own unique learning needs and preferences. While AI can offer personalised recommendations and suggestions, it may not always cater to the specific learning styles, paces or individual needs of students with dyslexia.

Lack of contextual understanding: AI systems operate through algorithms and patterns derived from vast amounts of data. While they can provide information and generate responses, they may lack contextual understanding and nuanced interpretation. Emotional and social aspects: Learning involves not only acquiring knowledge but also emotional and social engagement. Although beneficial in certain aspects, AI cannot fully replace the emotional connection and support provided by human interaction.

Students with dyslexia have unique learning needs that require a personalised approach. Combining the benefits of AI tools with human support can create a more effective and well-rounded learning experience.

Handling headlice

By Andrew Campbell

Headlice are a common problem faced by many parents, so here is what to do when there’s a classroom outbreak.

It helps to first understand the facts:

• Headlice are 2.5mm to 3mm long at adult stage.

• Their eggs are small, white and stick to the head, taking seven to ten days to hatch and then seven to ten days to mature into adults.

• Head lice only survive two to three days away from a human head.

• Contrary to myth, headlice don’t jump or fly, they don’t have a preference for either clean or dirty hair and they spread only from head to head contact, not from pillows or hairbrushes.

Symptoms

These can include itching, small itchy rash-like pink bumps around the edge of the scalp and the feeling of something crawling in the hair. Or there may be no symptoms and you might only find lice by systematically parting and combing the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb from the root of the hair to the tip. You will be able to see any lice, eggs or nits if you wipe the comb on a tissue between strokes. If you find any, it’s advisable to check the whole family’s hair.

Getting rid of head lice

Your local chemist will stock insecticide and non-insecticide treatment shampoos. Check your chosen product is suitable for the age of your child and note that some treatments are not suitable for pregnant women. There is no medical evidence of the effectiveness of Tea Tree Oil.

An alternative to treatment shampoos is wet combing with conditioner in the first instance or using this alongside the treatment shampoo. This can be helpful as some head lice are resistant to insecticides. If the treatment product requires you to treat the hair more than once, wet comb in between treatments to remove any eggs that may have hatched.

Wet combing

To wet comb, wet the hair, apply conditioner and thoroughly comb through all of the hair, in sections. Wash off the conditioner and repeat. In between each stroke, you need to wipe the comb on a tissue to check for lice. Repeat wet combing every two or three days until no lice have been seen for ten days. The aim is

Common questions

Do I need to keep my child at home?

No - as long as you are actively treating the lice. Naturally you should inform your child’s school so they can let other parents know. It’s advisable to keep long hair tied back and warn anyone your child mixes with of the situation.

If your child is old enough, you can explain to them that it’s a good idea not to get their head too close to that of other people.

Do I need to wash all bedding?

You don’t need to worry about other family members or friends being infected from things your child’s head has touched like pillows, duvets, cushions or soft toys.

What about pets?

Headlice don’t feed on animal blood so this is nothing to be concerned about.

Where can I read more?

The Little Book of Nits, by Richard Jones and Justine Crow is both a fact-packed manual and entertaining read. Signed copies are £7.99 from www.booksellercrow.co.uk

to remove all the lice as they hatch before they have the chance to mature, produce new eggs and reinfest your child.

Repeated checking

Whichever method you choose to treat your child, you should keep checking their hair regularly after the last of the lice have disappeared. This is because headlice lay a new batch of eggs daily. They take seven to ten days to hatch, so even if you’ve got rid of the live lice, there may be more waiting to hatch.

Check for headlice every time you wash your child’s hair, as it’s easier to spot lice on wet hair. Double check places like the nape of the neck and behind the ears where headlice sometimes lurk.

Head lice can be hard to shift. Their life-cycle, small size and the problem of treatment resistance all conspire to make this tricky. It’s not uncommon for family members to re-infest each other as headlice move from one head to another, plus of course, unless your child’s school friends have also been treated, headlice infestations can just continue to circulate in their class. If you’re finding headlice stubbornly hanging on, speak to your chemist for advice.

Girlguiding and Scouts today Building resilience, confidence and wellbeing

By Tara Pahari

Girlguiding has been a part of millions of girls’ lives for one hundred and thirteen years and counting. Set up because girls wanted an equal world with the same opportunities as boys, impressive progress has been made since it began. But things can still be tough for girls. With many facing high expectations and anxieties in every area of their lives, they can be limited by gender stereotypes and face barriers to accessing the things they need to feel happy.

In Girlguiding’s annual Girls’ Attitudes Survey, two in three girls and young women ages 11 to 21 said that being part of a youth organisation makes them feel accepted and more connected to others. Girls in Girlguiding are more confident than their peers, with nearly nine in ten saying they like being the way they are, compared with just six in ten who have never been in Girlguiding.

Youth groups such as Girlguiding and Scouts are equipping young people with transferable life skills such as leadership, money management and teamwork. A recent report from Demos has demonstrated how skills learnt from Scouting can make a significant difference to employability.

Guides today can still earn badges, in an updated programme which includes mindfulness, self-care and media criticism. Girls are also supported to develop emotionally, mentally and physically so they can make a positive contribution to their community and the wider world.

Empowering girls for more than a hundred years, Girlguiding is committed to doing the same today, with a keen focus on what drives, challenges and excites girls. Whether that’s the thrill of trying a new activity, singing around a campfire, enjoying the

buzz of earning a new badge or emailing her MP about the issues she cares about; it’s a space where she can be herself, get creative, explore and most of all, have fun.

Meanwhile, Scouting embraces an inclusive Skills for Life strategy that encompasses teamwork, leadership and resilience and this has not gone unnoticed in the world of employment. The report highlighted that over half of Scouts felt ready for the world of work compared to a third of those who did not participate in any extra-curricular activities. With many employers struggling to hire people with teamwork skills or emotional resilience, these transferable skills are currently in huge demand.

For more information about joining Girlguiding visit www.girlguiding.org.uk and Scouts www.scouts.org.uk

Friends of Girlguiding

Inspiring generations for over a century, it’s estimated that one in three women in the UK were once a Rainbow, Brownie, Guide or Ranger. Past alumni include household names such presenters Clare Balding, Davina McCall and Zoe Ball, actress Emma Thompson and paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds.

To support Girlguiding and help girls laugh, learn and explore long into the future, you can now sign up as a Friend of Girlguiding (www.girlguiding.org.uk/fog). Donations help to ensure even more girls benefit from fun, friendship and adventures for many years to come. Members join a community where they can reignite fond guiding memories or even connect with the organisation for the first time.

Former Rainbow, professional footballer and Lioness Katie Zelem said:

‘I’m so proud to be a Girlguiding ambassador. Providing opportunities and the space for girls to have fun, challenge themselves, go on adventures and experience the great outdoors, is so important for the development of confidence and resilience. I want to inspire the girls of the UK to be their brilliant selves.’

Benefits for future health

Research from a University of Edinburgh study shows that the benefits of Girlguiding and Scouting even continue into later life, with the all-encompassing activities they offer outperforming other after-school clubs and activities.

As a result of being supported in their personal development, adults who have been involved in Girlguiding or Scouting are more likely to have self-reported excellent health at age fifty compared to their peers, including better mental health in later life.

The research also found that those who had been in Girlguiding or Scouts had a better chance of social mobility, which can have a positive knock-on effect for better health. According to researchers, their findings suggest that going to Girlguiding and Scouts helps to develop skills such as resourcefulness and teamwork. These key characteristics help people to build resilience against everyday stresses in life.

Girlguiding’s programme provides a safe space where girls can develop their own resourcefulness and self-reliance. Add to that the wealth of healthy outdoor activities and it’s clear to see the lifelong benefits for health and wellbeing.

Get autumn-term ready with a free Perform class

Vivace’s music classes grow with

child

Perform classes use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Run by experienced actor-teachers, the classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration.

From September, ages 4-7 will take to the skies with Phileas Fogg as they go on an amazing adventure Around the World. Whether walking like a wallaby in the outback or revealing the legends of the Egyptian pyramids, the new term will be filled with globetrotting fun!

Meanwhile, ages 7-12 are going to the ball in a rags-toriches rock show, Cinderella Rocks. This hilarious version of Cinderella features struggling band, The Ugglies, in their quest to top the charts with charming music mogul, Simon Prince.

With all abilities welcome, the children will work towards an end of term performance for family and friends. The only requirement is to get ready to have the best fun of the week!

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class in Andover, Basingstoke, Bramley, Fleet or Hartley Whitney.

Vivace Music School help children discover a love for music that will last a lifetime!

Rooted in the ingenious Kodály approach, their birth to senior school curriculum leads children to joyfully discover their voices, grow in confidence and learn the language of music.

Little ones are immersed in imaginative songs and sensory musical play, while school-age kids’ classes burst at the seams with fun, helping them playfully learn key skills such as reading and creating music. Their expert teachers love nurturing their innate musicality and creativity through games, songs and real instruments.

Now’s a great time to join - email info@vivacemusicschool. co.uk or visit www.vivacemusicschool.co.uk to book your FREE class in Fleet, Farnham or Yateley.

"Full of great ideas, confidence-building approaches and social games "

Afterschool & Holiday

2024 family friendly holiday destinations

By Ashley Lutz

Family holidays are opportunities to spend quality time together while making unforgettable memories. With cost always a factor though, booking ahead can offer the benefits of low deposits, discounts and even free child places. Plus you have more time to get excited and have something to look forward to! If you’ve not booked a family trip for 2024, here are some fabulous ideas.

Crete

Explore the largest of the Greek islands. For younger kids there are many quiet beaches and secluded coves. For the bigger ones, theme parks, aquariums and water sports are easy to come by. Should you squeeze in a chilled ‘adult day,’ laid back boat trips and snaking coastal walks promise spectacular sea and valley views. This island really does have something for everyone.

Abu Dhabi

Consider booking Abu Dhabi over Dubai for winter sun. It’s more relaxed, very well suited to families of all ages and has a less chaotic feel to it. Familyfriendly activities include Ferrari World, waterparks, snorkelling, diving, kayaking and relaxing sunset cruises. There is even a Warner Bros World!

Portugal

Explore beyond the Algarve on a fun road trip. Even in the summer motorways tend to be quiet, making it easy to explore a variety of regions, each with its own unique character. There are so many fun routes to explore which take in long golden beaches, hilltop medieval villages, famous vineyards, the natural beauty of the islands and delicious food.

Switzerland

This can be a magical, great outdoor destination for family holidays and breaks. Whether bathing in one of the many lakes or rivers, up high, climbing a mountain on a hike or cycling through unique landscapes, Switzerland is a paradise for summer outdoor adventures.

Sweden

Consider a family trip to Sweden in summer. You can relax and explore in equal measure. Enjoy the pure bliss of jumping into lakes, kayaking and swimming in the sea. Rest your head in a tent for some wild camping or book into a comfy boutique hotel. From staying in the unspoilt nature of Swedish Lapland to exploring Stockholm and its vast archipelago, Sweden is a dream for nature lovers and adventurous travellers.

Krk Island, Croatia

Connected to the mainland by bridge and also accessible directly by air, this island is lesser known and there’s no need for ferries. Krk’s natural beauty and numerous activities like scuba diving, go karting or simply just relaxing on one of the many lovely beaches and coves make it perfect for families.

Mauritius

For stunning scenery and beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine and enough breeze to keep young children cool, Mauritius is perfect both for summer and Christmas holidays. This wonderful island is extremely familyfriendly with plenty of hotels, restaurants and activities which cater well for families.

Thailand

For a long haul adventure, this is a great option. Travelling with children is easy, with welcoming locals and great domestic travel options helping you to explore with ease. From the hustle and bustle of Bangkok to the chilled out vibes of island life, there’s something for everyone.

Ashley Lutz is a Travel Counsellor with seventeen years’ experience working with families to find inspiring holidays best suiting their wants, needs and budget. More info at www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/ashley.lutz

Is it ever okay to… give parenting advice to another parent?

By Ellie Malt

Where do you stand on giving parenting advice to another parent? Should you try to help or steer clear altogether and give them the space to find their own solutions? If you are minded to have your say, we’ve got some suggestions to reduce the risk of sounding like a know-it-all. Two mums give their, ahem… advice!

We all know at least one baby who slept easily and fed beautifully from week one. If you are lucky in that respect, it is particularly tempting to offer advice but please don’t think you’ve discovered some amazing secret for solving all the problems of another parent.

Jumping in with advice can be the opposite of helpful; it may sound like you think you know the situation better than the parents. In reality, you can’t know all the factors at play.

It’s easy to blame ‘parenting’ when often there are biological issues that lie behind struggles with feeding, sleeping and meltdowns, many of which may not emerge for years. For example, developmental delays, sensory issues, hearing loss, ADHD, autism, eczema, reflux and allergies are just a few of the many (and sometimes invisible) possibilities. And it can take years for parents to figure out causes or find solutions. During that time, it’s typical for parents to feel judged, so while offering advice to an already sleep-deprived parent might make you feel better, it’s more likely to make them feel worse.

Advice, particularly when it hasn’t been asked for, can often land when energy levels are already low, putting the onus on the parent to have to justify why what has worked for you just doesn’t work for their child.

Anna, mum of two boys, from Devon

How to pick the right moment?

Timing is key: no matter how good the advice, it’s a bad idea to suggest anything after a particularly difficult night or right in the middle of any meltdown.

It’s important to see how the advice is being received, so avoid sending an email/text/WhatsApp or posting on social.

If in doubt, hold back. If someone shares a problem, chances are a non-judgmental listening ear and sympathy are actually more helpful than advice, however well-meant.

Getting advice at the right time and from the right people can be helpful. For example, when meeting up with other new mums to feed your baby and enjoy a coffee together, it seems natural to talk about what you’re going through and to compare experiences.

When you are all just figuring it out together, it feels less judgemental; more of a safe space in which to swap stories about small wins and epic fails. Just occasionally a golden nugget of advice will drop into your lap.

On the flipside, lots of parenting advice either won’t work for your particular situation or your child or it may be out of date. Granted, it can be irritating when advice is worded as if it’s a universal law applicable to everyone, therefore implying you are a ‘bad parent’ for not doing whatever it is. That said, it would be a shame to miss out on something useful just because of another person’s misplaced sense of conviction or poor timing.

I try to see advice as a potential tool rather than a rule and remind myself it’s in my power to be curious, to test and then reject or accept it. Even when the advice doesn’t work, ruling it out is one step closer to success. In this way I can see parenting as a process of constant refinements rather than a reflection on some kind of innate ability.

Sarah, mum of three, from Oxfordshire

What to share instead of advice?

Your own problems: in moderation. This helps the other parent feel less alone.

Things you are considering trying yourself but haven’t yet! So there’s no suggestion that you have the absolute answer. Useful gadgets/objects: keeps the focus on physical solutions rather than criticising actions.

Share your sources: mentioning helpful podcasts, books etc instead of offering specific advice (but only send a link if the person asks you to).

‘Jumping in with advice can be the opposite of helpful.’

‘Just occasionally a golden nugget will drop into your lap.’

Sensory play

By Katie Still

Sensory activities enrich children’s play by encouraging them to engage their senses and explore and understand the world around them, sparking their imaginations and developing curiosity. Stimulating children’s senses supports their cognitive development, language and communication skills, physical, social and emotional development.

Sensory play can be magical - there are so many reasons why I love it. Here are some suggestions:

Nature confetti

Story stones

It’s time to go exploring in the garden or park for differentcoloured leaves to make some beautiful nature confetti.

Go and grab… a collection bowl and some shape-punchers. Find a selection of leaves of different colours and shapes, avoiding prickly, stinging or dangerous plants. Slide each one into the shape-puncher and make holes all over the leaf. Fill the bowl with the little shapes, taking care to keep little fingers clear of the puncher. What will your child want to do with their nature confetti - stick it on a picture maybe, or sprinkle it on the grass?

Let’s hear it!

What sounds can your child hear outside? Leaves rustling, bees buzzing, birds singing and dogs barking…

Let your child’s imagination run wild by creating some story stones to invent their own story!

Go and grab… paints and paintbrushes or colouring pens. A small bag or basket. Storybooks if you need some inspiration.

Go outside and collect some stones. Can you help your child find flat-ish ones that are all different shapes and sizes? Next, ask your child what they will paint on their story stones. Maybe characters from a book or animals; or simply things that they love? If drawing is too tricky, your little one can use stickers on their stones.

Once they’ve finished, pop the stones into the bag or basket and your child is ready to play. Ask them to take out the first stone. What drawing is on it? It’s over to them to make up a story around it; they decide what happens! Then they pull out a second stone - what’s the next part of the story…?

Let’s make it!

What sounds can your child make to accompany their story: the splash of waves maybe or the hum of an insect?

Cork boat races

Ready, set, go! Your child can make super-simple cork sailing boats, then have a boat race across the bathtub. Safety first: don’t forget adult supervision is always required when a child is playing with water.

Go and grab… corks, elastic bands, triangular pieces of paper, colouring pens, cocktail sticks, an optional straw. A bathtub or tray of water.

Line up three corks in a row. Pop an elastic band around them at each end to hold them together.

Make a paper sail and use the colouring pens to make a pattern. Push a cocktail stick carefully through the sail for a mast (adults, probably best you do this), then slowly stick it into the middle cork.

Ready to set sail? Brilliant! Set the boats afloat in the bathtub or a tray of water and see which one crosses the finish line first. Sails need wind, don’t they? Show your child how to use a straw to blow wind into the sails. How fast can the boat go?

Let’s explore it!

Pop some toys on the boat. How many can it carry? Which toys are too heavy and sink the boat? Take the boats outside: can you sail them in a puddle?

Katie Still (aka Instagram’s Playful Wonders) is the author of Playful Wonders, a new book jam-packed with sensory play ideas. The book is published by DK and available from www.bookshop.org

Make a haunted house for Halloween!

We asked our friends at Art-K Art School (www.art-k.co.uk) for a wonderfully spooky creative project for the kids to make for Halloween and they have come up with this very scary, haunted house.

You will need:

ü Water colour paints, ü A4 and A5 pieces of card

Instructions:

ü Scissors

ü Black sharpie

ü Glue

Step 1: Draw the haunted house on card and use a black sharpie to outline it. Simplify it if your child is very young. Now paint in the outline.

Step 2: Fold an A4 piece of card in half horizontally. Create two flaps by cutting a three-sided panel either side of the fold. Bend the two flaps inwards.

Step 3: Copy and draw two pumpkins onto separate A5 pieces of card.

Step 5: Glue the painted pumpkins onto A5 pieces of card as shown.

Step 6: Draw and outline ghosts and tombstones on to the A4 piece of cards. Find some ghosts on the internet to inspire your child. Then paint.

Step 7: Open up the A4 piece of card to see the step in the middle that bending the flaps inwards has created.

You now have your haunted house with pumpkins and ghosts!

andCutout keep

Step 4: Outline and paint the pumpkins



Step 8: Glue the house onto this step and stick the card with the pumpkins in front of the house.

What's On

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All listings are correct at the time of going to print.

Sat 9 Sep

Mum2Mum Market

Oakmoor School, Bordon GU35 0JB

www.mum2mummarket.co.uk/ m2mmbordon

Enjoy stalls bursting with quality, like new maternity, baby and children’s items from birth to six years. £2 entry, kids are free. Come and grab a bargain. Email Louise at m2mmeasthamps@ gmail.com for more information or to book a stall.

Ongoing

Treasure Trails

Alton, Basingstoke, Odiham, Petersfield, Selborne, Whitchurch www.treasuretrails.co.uk

A self-guided spy mission walking trail or treasure hunt inspired walk. Trails are 2 to 2.5 miles and take approximately two hours. Print a map at home or buy online.

Ongoing

‘50 Things’ Activities

The National Trust: Hinton Ampner, Mottisfont or The Vyne www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Why not try some of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges? There’s something for every young explorer to do.

Ongoing

ZOG Trail

Alice Holt Forest, GU10 4LS www.forestryengland.uk/aliceholt-forest

Everyone’s favourite dragon is at Alice Holt Forest with a family activity trail and app! Get ready to join Zog on his latest forest adventure to collect golden stars as your little dragons learn how they help care for the forest and how the forests can care for them.

Until 29 Oct

Inclusive Sensory Trail

The Vyne, Basingstoke RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Come and have a go at the inclusive trail, developed in partnership with Tadley Court School. This adventure consists of eight sensory experiences where you’re invited to smell, touch, look and listen to your natural surroundings. Pick up a free trail map from the visitor reception. 10am-4pm

Until Sun 1 Oct

Boom, Bang, Fizz – The Science of Fireworks Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Join WSC in a brand new free live show to discover the science behind the ooh, aah and wows of a

firework display. Fun experiments and dazzling demos will bring this explosive topic to life in an exciting 20-minute live show. Free with general admission.

Until Sun 29 Oct

Nature Explorer Adventure

Uppark House & Garden, Petersfield GU31 5QR www.nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark

Uppark’s gardens and little woodland are great places for early adventures into our amazing natural world. Kids can grab a Nature Explorer activity sheet to find fun challenges about the animals and nature at Uppark. £1.

Fri 8 to Sun 17 Sep

Heritage Open Days

Jane Austen's House, Chawton, Alton, GU34 1SD

www.janeaustens.house

Visit Jane Austen's House, the enchanting Hampshire cottage where Jane Austen lived and wrote her beloved novels. 3.30-5pm. Prebooking required.

Sat 9 & Sun 10 Sep

Heritage Open Days

The Vyne, Basingstoke RG24 9HL

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne

Once an important Tudor palace, this mansion has some illustrious connections, from Henry VIII to Jane Austen. Outside, there’s acres of gardens, meadows and woods to enjoy. Parking needs to be prebooked. 10am-4pm.

Sun 10 Sep

Dog Show

Gilbert White’s House, GU34 3JH

www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

With fun novelty classes for your doggy companions (and for their owners!) to take part in, as well as South Downs National Park joining us for obstacle courses for their ‘Take the Lead’ campaign, it’s a day that promises to be full of canine capers and fun for all the family. £3, under 5’s free. 10.30am-3pm.

Tue 12 Sep

Heritage Open Day: Garden

Tour

Chawton House, Alton, GU34 1SJ www.chawtonhouse.org

From a secluded fernery, an abundant orchard and a fragrant rose garden, to a rambling wilderness, hidden ha-ha and avenue of Lime trees: the Chawton House garden is packed with features that make the most of its picturesque surroundings. Entry to the house will incur a fee. 10.30am-12noon.

Thu 14 Sep

Heritage Open Day

Gilbert White’s House, GU34 3JH

www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

Explore the house and gardens for free as part of Heritage Open Days.

Sat 16 and Sun 17 Sep

Newbury Show

The Newbury Showground, Priors Court, Hermitage, RG18 9QZ, newburyshowground.co.uk/ newbury-show-2023

With hours of entertainment, Newbury Show is a great day out combining main ring displays, excellent shopping, a unsurpassed food hall experience, craft marquee, rural crafts, have-a-go activities plus all the traditions of a county show including agricultural machinery, vintage displays and the hugely popular ‘Grand Parade of Livestock’. 9am–5pm.

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Sep

Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain

Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So Barmy Britain is back with the hit West End show, full of crazy new characters and rude new rulers from Britain's barmy past!

Ages 5+.

Sun 17 Sep

Food Festival

Whitchurch Silk Mill, Whitchurch, RG28 7AL

www.whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk/ event/food-festival

Returning for another year, the popular Silk Mill Food Festival with delicious local food and drink suppliers including Crepe Britain, Mummy Makes, Thai Bites, Hot Oven, Longdog Brewery and lots more. Free with admission. 10.40am-4pm.

Sat 23 Sep

Creative Saturday: Clay Pots Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, GU32 3HX www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Creative Saturdays are fun, handson activity days. Explore stories, collections and exhibitions together as a family. Learn how to work with air-dry clay to create pinch pots or coiled vessels to decorate at home. 10.30am & 2pm. £8.

Sun 24 Sep

I Spy With My Little Eye

The Arc, Jewry Street Winchester SO23 8SB www.hampshireculture.org.uk/ event/i-spy-my-little-eye

It's Molly’s 6th birthday. She and Bingo the puppy are having a birthday party and, best of all, you’re invited! There’ll be a terrific treasure hunt, all your favourite sing-along songs (The Ants Go Marching, Hickory Dickory Dock and BINGO) and lots of fantastic

games to play, including Molly’s favourite game: I Spy With My Little Eye! 2.30pm. All ages.

Sat 30 Sep

Ultimate Dinosaurs

The Lights, Andover, SP10 1AH www.thelights.org.uk/ WhatsOn/11831/3904/ultimatedinosaurs

Get ready to go on an exciting pre-historic adventure as Ben talks you through the deadliest predators that ever roamed the planet. Yes, dinosaurs such as Tyrannosaurus Rex, Allosaurus and Spinosaurus would have walked or swam right where you are now! Ages 5-11. 2pm.

Sat 30 Sep to Sun 19 Nov

Autumn Colour Trail

The Vyne, Basingstoke RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne

Using a colour wheel, available for £1 from Visitor Reception, search the grounds for the rich and varied shades of autumn. On the other side, outlines of tree leaves provide handy hints to help identify autumnal foliage. 10am-5pm. 30 Oct–19 Nov, 10am-4pm. Last entry one hour before closing.

Sat 7 to Mon 30 Oct

Science Spooktacular

Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, SO21 1HZ www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Join Skully the Skeleton for a fiendishly fun trick or treat trail around the Science Centre. See page 15 for more information.

Sun 8 Oct

Cirque: The Greatest Show! Anvil Arts, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR www.anvilarts.org.uk/whats-on/ event/cirque-the-greatest-show Escape for a night like no other and enter a world where the very best of musical theatre showstoppers meets jaw-dropping circus spectacular. 5pm.

Fri 13 Oct

Roller Disco

The Harlington, Fleet, GU51 4BY www.theharlington.co.uk

Family-friendly, fun, exciting skating session. 6-9pm. All ages. £7 (includes skate hire).

Fri 13 to Sun 29 Oct

Pumpkin Picking at The Rogate Pumpkin Patch Petersfield, GU31 5EG www.rogatepumpkinpatch.com

Rogate Pumpkin Patch is a wonderful world of everything spooky and pumpkin. Attractions include: Merlin's Wood, Dracula's Estate, Pumpkin Garden and the Bubble Witch. Plus the Spooky Sunflower Trail with its individual

Autumn fun at Hinton Ampner & The Vyne

creations for visitors to seek out such as Dorothy's House, The Hobbit Hole and the Box Troll Eyes. The pumpkin patch itself has 25 different varieties of pumpkin, gourd and squash ranging from munchkin to monster in size for visitors to pick directly from the field.

Sat 14 Oct

Creative Saturday: Carving in Wood Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, GU32 3HX www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Join a fun, hands-on creative workshop led by an experienced artist educator. Spend time together as you develop your creative talents in different materials and techniques. Learn the basics of carving with basswood to create a carved object. 10.30am. £8.

Sat 14 & Sat 21 Oct

Hollycombe Halloween

Hollycombe, Liphook, GU30 7LP www.hollycombe.co.uk/events/ hollycombe-halloween

Enjoy Hollycombe’s Fairground at Night with a spooky theme and experience the magical nature of the Victorian and Edwardian fairground as the sights, sounds and smells all come alive as darkness falls! See website for opening times.

Sat 21 to Sat 28 Oct

School Holiday Spooky Trail Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, GU32 3HX www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Follow the Museum and Art Gallery cat on a spooky seasonal trail around the galleries. Find clues and solve riddles to win a special prize! 10am-5pm.

Giggles, gasps and gasses at Science Spooktacular

It’s trick or treat season and Winchester Science Centre is pulling out all the stops to fill this one with giggles, gasps and gasses!

Between Saturday 7 and Monday 30 October, there’ll be all the usual Science Centre fun, plus even more to excite all ages at Science Spooktacular – and it’s all included with admission. There’ll be giggles galore as little monsters hit the dancefloor at the Halloween disco. Listen out for the sounds of astounded gasps as families swap spooky scares for frightfully fun science in the Trick or Treat Trail. And head off on a gassy journey through our digestive system to discover what happens to all those tasty Halloween treats with brand new live science show, can you stomach it?

From 9.30am to 5pm (last entry 2pm). All visits must be booked in advance.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Sat 14 to Sun 29 Oct

Spooky Pumpkin Halloween

Trail

Hinton Ampner, SO24 0LA www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hintonampner

Wilma the Witch needs your help to lift the curse on Hinton Ampner… but there’s a problem. Wilma’s pesky pumpkin pals have stolen the pages from her spell book! Track down the pumpkins around the grounds and tackle the challenges to help Wilma cast her spell. £2 including a pencil and prize. 10am-4pm.

Sat 21 to Sun 29 Oct

Halloween Fun

Milestones Museum, Basingstoke RG22 6PG www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Enjoy Halloween half term for some spooktacular fun at the museum. Have a ghoulishly good time as you follow our Halloween trail around Milestones to spot who’s haunting the museum's buildings... With eerie effects and traditional Halloween decorations, enjoy a wicked wander through the cobbled streets - if you dare! Normal admission. 10am-5pm.

Sat 21 to Sun 29 Oct

HalloWellyWeen

Wellington Country Park, Riseley, RG7 1SP www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

Enjoy the biggest and friendliest spooktacular family fun Halloween week at Wellington Country Park. Visit the Wooky Willow Show Tent for daily shows and storytelling. Face your fears and visit the ZooLab UK team with their wonderful creepy crawlies. Get up close and find out about these amazing creatures, from giant centipedes to tarantulas. 9.30am4.30pm.

Sat 21 to Sun 29 Oct

Witch’s Halloween Recipe Trail

The Vyne, Basingstoke RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne ‘Hubble bubble toil and trouble…’ this half-term, hunt The Vyne’s gardens in search of mysterious and bizarre ingredients to complete the witch’s potion. £2 per trail sheet and sweetie prize. 10am-5pm. Last entry 4pm.

Sat 14 to Mon 30 Oct

Halloween Spooktacular

Paultons Park, Ower, SO51 6Al www.paultonspark.co.uk

Join Paultons Park for a Halloween spooktacular and enjoy Peppa Pig World‘s spooky Halloween makeover. Tornado Springs –Halloween decorations from the way out west. The Legend of Paultons Manor show – An allsinging and dancing extravaganza between 21st – 30th October inclusive. Ghoulish fun – meet Pickles the Pumpkin and the rest of the spirit squad characters! Plus, Rides in the dark! Late night opening on 24, 25 & 26 Oct.

Sun 22 Oct

Pop Princesses Corn Exchange, Newbury, RG14 5BD

www.cornexchangenew.com

This is the children’s pop concert with a big difference - it is a musical spectacular starring four fabulous fairy tale Princesses who just love to sing! 1pm & 6pm.

Mon 23 Oct

The Three Little Pigs

The Lights, Andover, SP10 1AH

www.thelights.org.uk/ WhatsOn/11815/3896/the-threelittle-pigs

Join the three pigs as they excitedly leave the family sty in search of new adventures! Will they make a pig’s ear out of it, or will they raise the roof? It’ll take brains, bravery and curly-tails to build bridges and forge friendships with each other and those they meet along the way. Ages 2+. 11am.

Mon 23 Oct

Vile Victorian Surgery Workshop

Winchester City Museum, The Square, Winchester, SO23 9ES www.hampshireculture.org.uk/ event/vile-victorian-surgeryworkshop

Join Dr Harold Halifax on a spooktacular journey through medical history to learn about the gruesome Georgians to the vile Victorians! This historical Halloween workshop is sure to provide your seasonal dose of child-friendly gore. Get hands on identifying herbs and spices, linking symptoms to cures and even amputating an arm! Interactive performances at 11am, 1pm, 3pm. Ages 5-11.

Thu 26 Oct

The Sooty Show

The Haymarket, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW

www.anvilarts.org.uk/whats-on/ event/the-sooty-show

Celebrating 75 amazing years in show business, Sooty, Sweep, and Soo are planning a very special birthday party and you’re all invited. However, in true Sooty style, nothing goes to plan! With buckets of audience participation and gallons of giggles, this spectacular celebration of the longest-running children’s television show in the world will delight Sooty fans old and new and is a must-see treat for the whole family. £21. Under 16s £18.50 (includes £4 booking fee). 11am, 2.30pm.

Fri 27 & Sat 28 Oct

Owl-O-Ween

Hawk Conservancy Trust Andover, SP11 8DY www.hawk-conservancy.org

Prepare yourself and your little ones for a wickedly spook-tacular family evening this Halloween. You can enjoy some ghostly storytelling and marvel at the owls as they put on a beautiful flying display against the backdrop of moonlit grounds. All children must be accompanied by a full paying adult. Dressing up is encouraged! £21.50. 6-8.30pm.

Sat 28 Oct

Halloween Family Fun Day

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, GU32 3HX

www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Put on your costume, grab your broomstick and wand and enter Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery if you dare! Celebrate Halloween with ghostly crafts, spooky storytelling and modern twists on traditional games. There is something for all the family! 11am-4pm.

Don't forget to say you saw these listings in Families Hampshire North Magazine!

Halloween half-term trails

at Hinton Ampner & The Vyne

Hunt for pumpkins at Hinton Ampner 14-29 Oct 10am-4pm. Search for potion ingredients at The Vyne 21-29 Oct 10am-4pm then 30 Oct - 5 Nov 10am-3pm. £2 per trail and prize.

nationaltrust.org.uk/hampshire

© National Trust 2020. Registered Charity no. 205846. Photography © National Trust Images / Chris Lacey