Families30 final by Families Magazine

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NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2015 ISSUE 30

Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Clubs and Classes Coughs and Sneezes Winter fun Tuition Plus

in Moseley & Bournville Royal Academy of Dancing syllabus Ages: 3-18

‘Helping students achieve their true potential’

Professional Tutoring Literacy & Numeracy Free Initial Assessment Harvest Fields Centre, B75 5TJ (Tues & Sat) Mere Green Centre, B75 5BT (Wed & Thurs) Tel: 07592 556 452

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FUN ALL WINTER LONG...

Christmas Craft Fair and Family Day Saturday 21 November 11am – 4pm Beautiful hand-crafted gifts, cards, jewellery and more!

This Christmas see Little Train Driver’s World transform into a grotto with the magic of the Santa Express

Children’s crafts – decorate a festive puppet or gift bag

Storytelling in the galleries (12 noon & 2pm)

Great Value, Family Ticket only £18.50

Carols from the Bournville Graduates ( 1 – 2pm) Twilight Tours - come and see some of the layouts lit up

FR EE

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham. B15 2TS www.barber.org.uk / 0121 414 7333

To book tickets visit www.wonderfulworldtrainsplanes.co.uk 3 Mary Ann Street, St Paul’s Square, Birmingham B3 1BG Tel: 0121 227 4000

Award-winning tuition Maths & English ages 5 -14

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Issue 30

2 mins walk from Livery Street entrance of Snow Hill or 15 mins from New Street Station

Read reviews on

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Contents In this Issue...

Hello Readers, Welcome to our action packed November/December issue of Families. Now you’ve put away the Halloween costumes for another year it is time to look ahead to Bonfire events, and… Christmas! This issue is full of exciting events, clubs and classes, advice on how to deal with seasonal ailments, an educational focus and Christmas activities – plenty to keep you and your families busy right through to the New Year. See page 4 for Novasol holidays, and page 13 for Bonfire Night events. Page 14 tells you of the special venues where you’ll find Santa and his helpers! Tell everyone you read about all those places right here – in Families Magazine. Finally, in the flurry of preparations, the hurry of gift buying, and the worry that you’ll never manage to get it all done in time – remember to stop, take a moment, and enjoy the magic of the season. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Suzanne Brown, Editor

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

4 News 6 Clubs and classes 7 Coughs and

Sneezes 8 Kimichi School 9 Playground squabbles 10 Education 12 Winter fun 13 Fireworks 14 Where’s Santa? 15 What’s On

7 10 14

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Next Issue:

Advertisers: Book now for our January/February New Year issue Call 07807 352087 or email editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk before Wednesday, 2nd December, 2015 Design: MattWaltonDesign@icloud.com (email) Print: Warners Midlands PLC, Manor Lane, Bourne, Lincs. PE10 9PH Copyright Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, November 2015. We take care preparing this magazine but the publisher and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor its consequence.

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Issue 30

News

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt WE’RE GOING TO TOWN HALL, BIRMINGHAM, WE’RE GOING TO SEE A BEAR HUNT, WHAT A BEAUTIFUL PLAY! WE’RE NOT SCARED!

oin the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the thick oozy, squelchy mud! Direct from a smash-hit West End and international tour, Michael Rosen’s award-winning book We’re Going On A Bear Hunt (illustrated by Helen Oxenbury) is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation, set to Benji Bower’s versatile and lively score. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure – plus a few special surprises! Tuesday 22 December 2015 - Wednesday 13 January 2016 Town Hall £12 - £14 We’re Going on a Bear Hunt – Relaxed Performance Sunday 10th January 2016 at 3:00pm Town Hall Tickets: £9.50 each For more details call THSH Customer Service team on 0121 345 0493.

NOVASOL Holiday Homes in Europe With over 40 years’ experience NOVASOL, part of Wyndham Worldwide, has more than 40,000 holiday homes in 29 European countries in Northern, Central and Southern Europe across destinations like Croatia, France, Spain, Italy and Denmark. Why not like our NOVASOL UK Facebook page, subscribe to our newsletter

and be inspired by our 2016 brochure for your next holiday? Have a look at our website www.novasol.co.uk today and find out more about our cottages, farmhouses, apartments and villas with pools all over Europe! www.novasol.co.uk I Facebook: NOVASOL UK I novasol@ novasol.co.uk 0845 680 5856

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Issue 30

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Thursday 3rd December from 6pm

Hoar Park Farm Shopping & Leisure Village Nuneaton Road, Over Whitacre, Nr. Coleshill & Nuneaton, CV10 0QU Tel: 024 76 394433 or 024 76 397733 web: www.hoar-park.co.uk email: info@hoar-park.co.uk

News

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

presents

TRADITIONAL PANTOMIME FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY!

Fri 11 Dec - Sun 3 Jan ‘16

Cinderella

To see what’s on when, visit www.thsh.co.uk/whats-on

What’s on

Fancy seeing a fun-filled, family pantomime to get you into the festive mood this Christmas? Richmond Ward Productions are proud to present ‘Cinderella’, the timeless story of how a poor girl who is taunted by her two step-sisters is finally rescued by the gallant Prince Charming. The show is full of traditional panto fun and antics, top vocal performances, beautiful costumes, dancing, audience participation and lots of ‘its behind you’ to delight the younger audience. The show also features Cinderella’s best friend the ever-loved Buttons, the handsome Dandini and, of course, the most loved fairy of them all – The Fairy Godmother. Tickets are on sale now for this sparkling Christmas pantomime, suitable for all the family. Don’t miss this show – the Ugly Sisters are quite something else! Sutton Coldfield Town Hall Theatre 11 Sparkling Shows between 16 – 20th December Box Office 0121 240 0218 www.cinderella2015.com

Box office 0121 345 0600 www.thsh.co.uk

Tickets only £16 - £19 on sale NOW!

DIRECTORY

DANCE & DRAMA Irish dancing classes for boys and girls aged 4 to adult Classes held in Selly Oak, Kings Norton and Redditch Call Louise on 07790 876 345 for information

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

www.granarince.co.uk

ART

MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE Youth Theatre Group, Age 5+

Solihull

Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA

Telephone: 0121 722 3761

The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest art programme, here, in Solihull. Fine Art classes for children, teens and adults

www.masquerademusicaltheatre.co.uk

Call 07414 630 681 | www.artscool-knowle.com

Solihull Young Dancers

Ballet, Tap & Modern Dancing Classes from age 2 Â˝ + Tel: Kate on 07722 732678

DANCE & DRAMA CENTRAL STAGE SCHOOL Tap Street Jazz Musical Theatre Solihull: Adult & Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Classes Tel: Claire 07939 529 227 info@centralstageschool.co.uk www.centralstageschool.co.uk

www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk

XCEL SHOWBIZ

A fun school teaching the stars of the future

Dance, Singing & Acting, held on Tuesdays in Solihull for boys/girls 6+

DUBARRIE SCHOOL OF DANCE Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 Â˝ + Branches in Yardley and Solihull Telephone: 0121 744 1422 www.dubarrieschoolofdance.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL 07807 352087 6â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Issue 30

Call Kim on 07930 300330 www.xcelshowbiz.co.uk

MUSIC BIR

1-to-1 drum tuition, City Centre location M I N G H A M Rock School grades 1-8. Ages 4 upwards. Tel: 0121 503 5849 www.birminghamdrumschool.co.uk

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Health

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Coughs and Sneezes By Sally J. Hall

here are over 200 cold viruses. The symptoms are a runny nose, sore throat and high temperature. How do you know when to let nature run its course, and when to call the doctor? For very small children, you can relieve symptoms with a decongestant rub or use a few drops of a decongestant spray or eucalyptus oil on a tissue near your baby as he sleeps. Provide him with plenty of fluids to drink. For a slight fever, use infant paracetamol or ibuprofen; read the instructions carefully. If your child is under three months, check symptoms with your doctor, as small children can become very ill quickly. Seek medical advice if you think it’s more than a common cold. Flu can be serious in young children. If in doubt, get to A&E.

Pin it with pride Brain Tumour Research’s Limited Edition brooches are the perfect stocking filler! These gorgeous brooches have been designed in order to raise funds for the annual Wear A Hat Day coming up on 24th March 2016. Suggested donation £10. Visit www.braintumourresearch.org or call 01296 733011 to secure yours today!

Promote your little one’s natural reflexes in our lessons using hugs from the water. Enjoy baby bonding, terrific toddler time, and practising preschool fun with our specially trained and enthusiastic swimming team.

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Issue 30

Parenting

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Kimichi School Keeping music alive

f you are a parent or a music-lover, you may have been gripped by the documentary Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Stop the Music, in which pianist James Rhodes revealed the dire state of music education in schools. However, there is good news. Kimichi School is an independent school set up by headteacher Sally Alexander in Acocks Green. Here, all children must learn a musical instrument. While the school has links with local orchestras including the renowned CBSO, there is no audition process and all are welcome to apply. Sally Alexander provides an education where music is very much in the foreground. This isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a school for musical prodigies, but rather a school for any child who plays or would like to play an instrument.

So what can pupils expect? Kimichi School provides its pupils with an academically rigorous curriculum. All National Curriculum subjects are covered, and there are opportunities to learn DIY, cooking, budgeting, selfdefence, scuba diving, horse riding, performing and self-sufficiency. Additionally, a fifth of the school week is spent taking part in practical music making in choirs, and ensembles. All are welcomed, from complete beginners to more advanced performers. Kimichi School has the potential to save parents on fees which they would otherwise be paying for private music lessons. The school also has shorter terms than state schools, so families can avoid peak holiday prices. Headteacher Sally adds: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Give us a chance and watch your loved one flourish.â&#x20AC;? For more information, call 0121 679 5298 or email enquiries@kimichischool.co.uk

Come and experience for yourself how we fulfil our promise to parents to provide the highest quality Childcare and education with... 0-2Ęźs Spec A range of Childcare packages to suit busy parentĘźs needs, fully funded places, session and hourly rates. Flexible packages for mums returning to work All vouchers and payment methods accepted

ial offers and fre e weeks for places bo oked before the en d of December 20 15. See nursery managers for more details

All formula milk, freshly prepared weaning food & nappies are provided Our fully refurbished Nurseries offer the ultimate day care experience for children 0-5 years. Where every child is unique and valued, and partnership with parents is central to our caring family atmosphere Secure and independent baby suites designed to care for the individual needs of each baby Pre and After School and Holiday Clubs 4-12 years available Grant funding available for 2, 3 and 4 year olds.

Excellent Ofsted reports For more information ring our Nursery Manager:

Jayne at Seesaws 1 Avenue Road, Erdington Tel 0121 350 6521

Katie at Seesaws 30 Walmley Ash Road, Walmley Tel 0121 351 7000

Sandra at Seesaws 635 Chester Road, Wylde Green Tel 0121 384 5494

333 !,,/&,, !, 1( 333 !,,/&,, !, 1( 333 !,,/&,, !, 1(

333 !,,/&,, !, 1( 333 !,,/&,, !, 1( York 21a York Road York Road Road 0121 0121 0121 444 444 444 1808 1808 1808 21a 21a 21a 21a York York Road Road Kings Kings Kings Heath Heath Heath 0121 0121 444 444 1808 Open: Open: Open: MonMon -Mon Fri- Fri -1808 9.30am Fri 9.30am 9.30am - 5pm - 5pm - 5pm

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Kings Kings Heath Heath B14 B14 7SA B14 7SA 7SA Open: Open: Mon Mon -Saturday Fri - Fri 9.30am 9.30am --9am 5pm -5pm 5pm Saturday Saturday 9am9am - 5pm - 5pm B14 7SA 7SA Sunday Sunday Sunday & Bank & Bank & Holidays Bank Holidays Holidays Saturday Saturday 9am 9am - 5pm - 5pm B14 (see website) (see (see website) website) Sunday Sunday & Bank & Bank Holidays Holidays (see (see website) website)

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Parenting

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

When friends fall out: how to help your child cope with playground arguments

By Liat Hughes-Joshi

The dreaded playground squabble has struck, the tears are rolling and you’re unsure of how to help... Relax: it’s normal

Primary school children fall out (and in again) as quickly as a round of Hokey Cokey. Most squabbles are soon forgotten.

Reassure, hug and listen

Even if it’ll blow over, your child could feel like their world is collapsing.

Help them to help themselves

Instead of providing solutions, encourage your child to think through what they could do to resolve this.

Resist the temptation to wade in! Your parental instincts are urging you to tackle the little blighter concerned, or their parents, but hold back. Confronting the other child isn’t appropriate

under any circumstances. Approaching their parents is a minefield too: they probably won’t accept their child has done anything wrong.

When to see their teacher…

If whatever happened involved physical violence, is persistent, and/ or your child starts not wanting to go to school, then do discuss it with their teacher. They can then keep a closer eye on the children. Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

2008|2009

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RUSSELL NURSERY SCHOOL

Children aged from 3 months to 5 years.

Ofsted Outstanding

• Qualiﬁed friendly staff. • Daily home cooking. • Interactive Whiteboard/Table. • CCTV cameras in every room. • Free Grant places available for 3+

Tel: 0121 777 4902

130 Russell Rd, Hall Green, B’ham B28 8SQ

Other sites

621 Fox Hollies Road, Hall Green, Birmingham. B28 9DW Tel: 0121 777 3778

Small World Nursery, 975 Stratford Road, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 8BG Tel: 0121 693 3071

There are young people across the country facing a Christmas on their own.

How to hold a multi-faith ‘Christmas’ Party By Emma Oliver

How to have a children’s Christmas party whilst being sensitive to other faiths In today’s society, our children grow up surrounded by other faiths; definitely a reason to celebrate.Together they learn about diversity and race and can unite for the good of the community. But how do you hold a party at Christmas and remain sensitive to one another’s needs?

If you have room in your life to foster, call 0800 022 4012.

careis...

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Be Informed

It is not only the Christian faith that has a holiday at a similar season as Christmas: Hanukah and Divali are also celebrated. A growing number of other faiths and families have created unique Christmas traditions, making it easier to encourage everyone to join in.

Learn From One Another

Being sensitive to all needs is important but so is avoiding segregation, which can be divisive. Ultimately as a parent, you want to teach respect. Children are accepting and good at embracing the multi faith experience – we can learn a lot from them.

Celebrate

Coming together is a celebration whatever the occasion and it may well be that you choose to manage the ingredients of your party with individual ingredients of other faiths… with games, food and music to suit all. Keep the focus on what unites us and makes us the same. Emma Oliver is a journalist who has worked for various magazines and websites, mainly covering travel and parenting. WritingLifeAsItIs.blogspot.co.uk

0800 022 4012

fosterwithfca.co.uk Issue 30

Education

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Unleash your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full potential with Solihull Professional Tuition Centre

olihull Tuition is a centre of academic excellence delivering the perfect tuition experience for ages 5-18 years â&#x20AC;&#x201C; at an affordable price.

We provide tuition to children, enabling them to become the best possible academic version of themselves. The teaching ratios are 1:4 or 1:6, which develops childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s confidence and the love of learning in Maths and English. The hugely successful 11+ Grammar School Preparation programme empowers children in Years 3, 4 and 5 to prepare comprehensively for the 11+ in a fun, logical and structured way. Online learning at home further inspires children to maximise their full potential with excellent results. Tuition at GCSE and A Level is provided in a variety of subjects with a full mentoring program. Parents, teachers and children notice that attainment goes up significantly within two school terms. To find out more visit solihulltuition.com, or call 0121 705 6719.

Make your Child the Star of their very own Personalised Story Book Labels4Kids.com provides story books with Disney Frozen Fever, Disney Princesses and many more. Personalise them with your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name and perhaps those of their best friends or cousins and let them be part of an epic story! A great gift idea for Christmas and now available on our website. Order early so we can send them to you before Christmas - these adventure books are custom made and take up to 2-3 weeks for Christmas delivery. Get yours today from www.labels4kids.com/fam2

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Issue 30

CALL US TODAY:

BOOK AN ASSESSMENT TODAY.

www.solihulltuition.com Email: info@solihulltuition.com 631 WARWICK ROAD, SOLIHULL, WEST MIDLANDS, B91 1AR

0121 - 705 - 6719

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Education

Book Reviews By Justine Crow

Baby & Toddler

Walter’s Wonderful Web by Tim Hopgood - Macmillan RRP 5.99 This sweet board book from the author of Wow! Said the Owl, is an introduction to shapes delivered with the same bold, robust flourish as the previous book.

Three to Five years

Please Mr Panda by Steve Antony - Hodder RRP 6.99 We grown-ups are very good at demanding manners from our little people but how do we teach them? Bribery, that’s how and Panda is on hand with an awful lot of naughty doughnuts. But nobody gets any until they say: “Please!”

Six to Eight years

The Not So Little Princess, Where’s Gilbert? by Tony Ross & Wendy Finney - Andersen RRP 5.99 The Little Princess did great work for us parents in the potty training, bedtime and pets departments. Now she is older, she stars in a new Early Reader series along with the original cast of bonkers characters from the palace. Though she has lost her teddy, she has lost none of her zest.

Nine Years Plus

Magnus Chase & the Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan - Penguin RRP 14.99 Here’s a fantastic new series from the writer of the Percy Jackson Adventures. This time it is Norse myths and accompanying trolls and giants that form the historical backdrop into which our hero is hurtled, to search for a weapon that has been missing for a thousand years.

12 To Teen

The Rest of Us Just Live Here by Patrick Ness - Walker RRP 12.99 What if you aren’t born to be a hero? What if you are just a plain old young teen preparing for a prom? What happens then? From this acclaimed author, you can be certain that the answer is right out of the ordinary.

ADVENTURE

STORY BOOK

www.labels4kids.com/fam2.html Issue 30

Winter Fun

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Keeping active this winter

on’t let the winter blues set in! Get out and keep active this winter – so much to do! Hit the slopes!

Issue 46 : (E)

VISIT SANTA’S GROTTO IN OUR

Try Ackers Adventure, Sparkbrook for dry slope skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding, adventure trekking and much, much more. At Tamworth Snow Dome you will find an indoor slope with real snow. Activities include skiing, snowboarding and lessons for all levels of experience. ackers-adventure.co.uk, snowdome.co.uk

Ice Skating Ice Skate Birmingham – will be located within Centenary Square near the Frankfurt Christmas Market this winter. Book in advance! iceskatebirmingham.co.uk Blue Ice Solihull Rink, Hobs Moat Rd, B92 8JN - Ice-skating sessions for any age, plus weekly discos and sports. solihullicerink.co.uk

LEARN TO SKI AT ACKERS ADVENTURE THIS SEASON!

See Santa’s Reindeer in the Courtyard Includes: Zoo Admission. Visit to Santa in his Grotto, Surprise Gift, Magical Christmas Show

ALL VISITS TO SANTA’S GROTTO MUST BE PRE-BOOKED

Book online @ www.dudleyzoo.org.uk or call 0844 474 2272 12

Issue 30

PINGU SKI SCHOOL FOR 4-8 YEAR OLDS SKI STARTER LESSONS FOR JUNIORS & ADULTS GREAT VALUE SKI PACKAGES LEARN TO SKI IN A DAY! IMPROVER LESSONS SKI PARTIES RACE TUITION & TRAINING HOME OF THE MIDLAND SKI CLUB TOBOGGANING for 3 -12 yr olds

Only £3.50pp for 30 minutes of adrenaline fuelled fun! Available any time we are open. Long sleeves, trousers and gloves required. Tobogganing Parties also available. Please call ahead to check availability.

Ackers Adventure Golden Hillock Road, Birmingham B11 2PY

www.ackers-adventure.co.uk

bookings@ackers-adventure.co.uk

0121 772 5111

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Fireworks

Fireworks Night Wrap up warm and head out for some fireworks fun in and around Birmingham. Silent Fireworks

Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Road, B15 3TR 5/11/15, 4 - 5pm; 0121 450 4607 birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

Superheroes – The Sequel Fireworks Spectacular Himley Park, Dudley, West Midlands, DY3 4DF 7/11/15, from 4.30pm 01384 817817 dudley.gov.uk

&+5,670$6 .,1*'20

West Midlands Safari Park - Firework Festival Bewdley, DY12 1LF 7/11/15 and 8/11/15 Get there early to make the most of your day! www.wmsp.co.uk; 01299 400700

Fireworks Spectacular

Tamworth Assembly Rooms Corporation Street, Tamworth, B79 7DN 7/11/15, FREE of charge tamworthassemblyrooms.co.uk; 01827 709 618

Tamworth Castle

The Holloway, B79 7NA Visit after dark, before enjoying the ever popular, breathtaking firework display in the Castle Grounds. 7.11.15, 5.30pm tamworthcastle.co.uk, 01827 709581/618

ET CR SE SHOP Y TO

***Check venue website in case of schedule changes.

17984A 10/15

NEW Pre-book your visit to Father Christmas NOW and avoid the queues NEW &ĂŶƚĂƐƟĐ ϯ ŚŽƵƌ entertainment programme Early booking ŽŶůŝŶĞ ĚŝƐĐŽƵŶƚƐ

Issue 30

Where’s Santa

Christmas Theatre

Where to find Santa 2015

He’s making a list, he’s checking it twice.... and he’s on his way to Birmingham and the Midlands for the festive season!

Sister Act

Presented by St. Augustine’s MTC. SISTER ACT tells the hilarious story of Deloris Van Cartier, a wannabe diva whose life takes a surprising turn. Venue: Solihull Arts Complex Dates: Tue 17 - Sun 22 Nov 2015 Times: 7.30pm (2.30pm Sat & Sun matinee) Tickets: £15 - £17 0121 704 6962 solihullartscomplex.co.uk

Have you seen Santa? Rumour has it he’s in the Black Country!

Children and adults alike can join the fun-filled search for him alongside the Museum’s festive costumed guides for an unforgettable Christmas experience. Venue: Black Country Living Museum Santa Hunt Dates: Sun 22 Nov, Sat 28 & Sun 29 Nov, Sat 5 & Sun 6 Dec, Sat 12 & Sun 13 Dec, Sat 19 – Thu 24 Dec. Book your place as soon as possible by calling the Bookings Team on 0121 520 8054. Tickets: Adult - £15.00, Children (3-16) £9.00, Children (0-2) - £7.00 bclm.co.uk

Santa’s Winter Wonderland SnowDome, Tamworth

Santa will be returning to the SnowDome this Christmas with his magical Winter Wonderland in the snow! Venue: SnowDome, Leisure Island, River Drive, Tamworth, Staffordshire, B79 7ND Dates: 20th Nov - 31st Dec Prices: Saver Day - £12.95; Standard Day - £16.95 08448 000011 snowdome.co.uk

Enchanted Christmas Kingdom

Father Christmas returns to Hatton again this year, for a festive programme bigger, better and MORE MAGICAL then ever! PRE-BOOK online now to avoid the queues. Venue: Hatton Adventure World, Warwick, CV35 8XA Dates: November 28 – Christmas – every weekend, and Friday evenings Times: see website Tickets: Prices vary according to day of visit. hattonworld.com 01926 843411, hatton@hattonworld.com

The Magical Christmas Adventure

Santa will be at Becketts Farm for the fifth year for their Magical Christmas Adventure. Fun for all the family! Venue: Heath Farm, Alcester Road, Wythall, Birmingham, B47 6AJ Date: from 28th Nov onwards 01564 823402 beckettsfarm.co.uk

Christmas Theatre

Santa’s Grotto

Ideal for the little ones. Visit Santa and receive a small gift. Venue: Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Rd, Birmingham, B15 3TR Dates: December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 Times: 12 – 3pm Tickets: £10.00 birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk, 0121 454 1860

Treasure Island

Have you ever daydreamed about sailing the ocean blue? If so, ‘Treasure Island’ is the show for you! Venue: Old Rep Theatre, Birmingham Dates: November 20 – January 3 Times: Start times vary between 10.15 am and 7pm. Tickets: Adults: £15.95* Concessions: £12.95* Family (Admits 4): £55* 0121 359 9444 oldreptheatre.org.uk

Santa at the Servants’ Quarters at Shugborough Historic Estate

Come to the Shugborough Estate this Christmas to visit Santa in the festively decorated Victorian Servants’ Quarters. Venue: Shugborough Historic Estate Dates: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 21 and 22 December 2015 Times: 9:30am – 4pm Tickets: Children - £9.50; Adults - £6.00; Babes in arms not visiting Santa are free. There is no additional booking fee for this event. 01785 254 653 shugborough.org.uk

Search for Santa – 2015

Cinderella

The magical story of Cinderella brought to life in a sparkling, traditional family panto. 11 performances including a relaxed matinee. Venue: Sutton Coldfield Town Hall, Upper Clifton Rd Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B73 6AB Dates: 16th to 20th Dec 2015 Start Times: 10am; 11am; 2pm; 3pm; 7pm Tickets: www.ticketor.com/rwp 0121 240 0218 cinderella2015.com

Brimming with festive energy, this ballet charms young and old alike. Venue: Birmingham Hippodrome Dates: November 27 – December 13 Start Times: 1pm; 2pm; 2.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: from £19 upwards 0844 338 5000 birminghamhippodrome.com

Aladdin

Panto is back… Oh yes it is! Get ready to Boooooo Abanazer and gasp as the magic carpet tries to fly…! Don’t wait to book this as it sells out fast. Particularly for shows in the school holidays.

Kids come along and bring the grownups to help look for Santa on the City Centre canals. Every child receives a gift. Babies under 12 months go free! We don’t allow unaccompanied adults! Sherborne Wharf, 4 Sheepcote St, B16 8AE Tickets: from £8.50 0121 455 6163 email@sherbornewharf.co.uk sherbornewharf.co.uk Venue: Solihull Arts Complex Dates: December 11 – January 3 Time: Various from 10.30am - 7pm Tickets: £16-£19 0121 704 6962 solihullartscomplex.co.uk

Visit Santa’s Grotto in Dudley Zoo and Castle’s WINTER WONDERLAND. See Santa’s Reindeer in the Courtyard. * ZOO ADMISSION * VISIT SANTA & HIS GROTTO * SURPRISE GIFT * MAGICAL CHRISTMAS SHOW Venue: Dudley Zoo and Castle Dates and times: Tues 1 - Fri 11 Dec - 10 am - 2.30 pm; Sat 12 - Thurs 24 Dec, 10 am - 2.30 pm Prices: Child (1 yr+) £10.00, Under 1 yr (with gift) £4.50, Under 1 yr (no gift) £2.25, Adult Santa Visit* £7.00, Family Ticket £30.00. 0844 474 2272 dudleyzoo.org.uk

Grimm Tales

Cinderella, Hansel and Gretel and Jack and his beanstalk and many more famous stories that we all know. Or do we? Age: 5+ Venue: The Crescent Theatre Dates: 5 – 19 Dec. Tickets: Adult: £15; Concessions £14 Tickets: Adult Ticket: £15 | Concessions: £14 | Family Ticket (2 Adults & 2 Children U16): £36 | Sunday Matinee Only: £8 0121 643 5858 crescent-theatre.co.uk

Gangsta Granny

Cinderella: A Fairytale

Issue 30

Don’t miss this chance to let your hair down with this irresistible feel-good musical show. Your children might have already seen the movie Hairspray – now see the live show. Age 5+ Venue: New Alexandra Theatre Dates: December 14 – January 2 Times: 2.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: £15 - £66.15 0844 871 3011 atgtickets.com

The Nutcraker

Winter Wonderland

Hairspray

With their quirky visual style, crystal-clear storytelling and original live music and pitch-perfect ensemble acting this classic tale of fortunes reversed is imaginatively brought to life. Venue: mac birmingham Age: 6+ Dates: December 3 – January 9 Times: 10am; 10.30; 2pm; 2.30; 7pm Tickets: £8.50 - £21 0121 446 3232 macbirmingham.co.uk

Birmingham Stage Company (producers of Horrible Histories) has adapted David Walliams’ book Gangsta Granny for the stage. It premieres here before heading to London’s West End. Age 5 and above permitted. Venue: New Alexandra Theatre Dates: December 7 – 12 Times: 10am; 10.30; 1.30pm; 2.30pm; 7pm Tickets: from £22.50 0844 871 3011 atgtickets.com

I’ve Seen Santa

It’s Christmas Eve and Little Bear can’t wait to see Santa! Will Little Bear’s wish come true? But Little Bear doesn’t want to go to sleep. He wants to see Santa! Suddenly…glug, glug, glug! What’s that noise? There’s someone downstairs… Will Little Bear really see Santa? Venue: Solihull Arts Complex Studio Dates: December 19 – 24 Times: Varied – see website Tickets: £10 0121 704 6962 solihullartscomplex.co.uk

Peter Pan

Peter Pan and his tiny friend Tinkerbell the Fairy take Wendy, John and Michael Darling on a magical flight to Never Land. Venue: The Blue Orange Theatre Dates: December 19 – January 2 Times: 2.30pm & 6pm (not every day) Tickets: Standard £11; Concessions £9; Family tickets also available. 0121 212 2643 blueorangetheatre.co.uk

Aladdin

Marti Pellow, Julian Clary, Lee Mead, Matt Slack and Andrew Ryan are announced as stars of the spectacular pantomime extravaganza Aladdin. Venue: Birmingham Hippodrome, Dates: December 19 – January 31 Times: various, see website Tickets: from £26 0844 338 5000 birminghamhippodrome.com

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

Join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear. Venue: Town Hall Birmingham Dates: December 22 – January 13 Times: 10.30am; 1pm; 1.30pm Tickets: £12 - £14 plus transaction fee 0121 345 0493 Email: boxoffice@thsh.co.uk thsh.co.uk

What’s On

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk Christmas Out & About Musical Picnic Concerts

Part of the Musical Picnic series, suitable for ages 0 – 7 Venue: Symphony Hall Café Bar Date: November 7, December 12 Time: 10:30am Free of charge. thsh.co.uk

German Christmas Market

The seasonal event - known as Frankfurt Christmas Market - will be open from 10am to 9pm each day. This is the largest Christmas market outside Germany. On offer are German food and drink, toys, decorations, jewellery and crafts. Local traders hold a Christmas Craft Fair at the same time in nearby Chamberlain Square. Venue: Birmingham, Victoria Square and New Street Dates: Thursday, November 12, to Tuesday, December 22. Times: 10am – 9pm birmingham.gov.uk/frankfurtmarket

Condensed Ski Course

Learn to Ski in a Day at Ackers Adventure. A full day course for anyone wishing to learn quickly. The course aims to take participants from beginner to recreational standard skiers e.g. able to ski without an instructor. 5 hours of tuition with breaks. Venue: Ackers Adventure, Golden Hillock Road,, Sparkbrook, Birmingham B11 2PY Date: 14 Nov; 5 Dec; 19 Dec Time: 10 - 4pm Cost: Adults £90 Juniors £75 (8-16yrs). Pre booking essential on 0121 772 5111 ackers-adventure.co.uk

Date: Saturday 21st November Time: 11am – 4pm Free – drop in, all welcome 0121 414 7333 barber.org.uk

The Shugborough Christmas Fair and Candlelit Mansion House

A Christmas shopping event with a wide range of arts, craft, food and gift stalls for Christmas, organised by Oakleigh Fairs. Venue: Shugborough Historic Estate Dates: Friday 27th, Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November 2015 Times: 10am - 4pm Tickets: Adults: £8 in advance or £9 on the day; Concessions: £6.50 in advance or £7.50 on the day. Under 16s: Free. Tickets available online now. 0845 459 8900 shugborough.org.uk The Burbage Silver Band & Carols with the Band ‘Singing carols around the tree...’ See Father Christmas, Hog Roast, Mince Pies and Mulled Wine All Shops and Restaurant Open, Booking is advised Venue: Hoar Park. Shopping and Craft Village Date: Thursday 3th December Time: from 6pm Tickets: 024 7639 4433 email info@hoar-park.co.uk hoar-park.co.uk

Christmas Craft Fair

The Barber’s ever-popular Christmas Fair returns! So pop along for shopping and a drop-in craft session. Decorate a festive puppet or gift bag using felt, sequins, stickers, and fabric crayons – keep it for yourself or give as a gift. Venue: Barber Institute of Fine Arts, University of Birmingham, B15 2TS

Town Hall/Symphony Hall Events Christmas with Aled Jones

Date: 19 December Time: 7.30pm Tickets: £12.50 - £42 plus transaction fee Venue: Symphony Hall

Come to our twilight tours, and to see Little Train Driver’s World transform into a grotto with the magic of the Santa Express. Wonderful World of Trains and Planes, St Paul’s Sq, Birmingham, wonderfulworldtrainsplanes.co.uk 0121 227 4000

Twilight Tours - come and see some of the layouts lit up

2m Str Sno New

Win a family ticket to To book The tickets Lion, visit thewww.wonderfulwor Witch andAnn theStreet, Wardrobe 3 Mary St Paul’s Square, Birmingham B3 1BG Tel: 0121 227 4000 at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre

Victorian Evening

Christmas at Gracechurch Event

This Christmas, The Gracechurch Centre is joining forces with the Sutton Coldfield BID to give our town centre an even more festive flavour - more in-centre events, activities and fun for all! Venue: The Gracechurch Centre, Sutton Coldfield, B72 1PA Dates: 15/11/2015 until 24/12/2015 0121 355 1112 gracechurchcentre.com

Fun all winter long

19 November 2015 to 16 January 2016 Families Birmingham has 2 sets of family tickets to give away (2 adults, 2 children) for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre for Wednesday 25th November, 7pm. Enter the enchanted snowy kingdom with the children as they help Aslan, the lion, to reclaim his throne. For the chance to win the tickets log on to www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk/win and answer this question: What is the name of the lion in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe? Is it A) Aslan; B) Leo or; C) Alex. The competition closes on Monday 16th November. Good luck! bimingham-rep.co.uk, 0121 236 4455

Santa’s Grotto

Christmas Carol Singalong

Date: 21 December Time: 2.30pm Tickets: £12.50 - £36 plus transaction fee Venue: Symphony Hall ***Check venue website in case of schedule changes.

Come and meet Santa in Birmingham Botanical Gardens’ winter wonderland. 12.00 - 3.00 pm Every Saturday and Sunday in December until Christmas Day.

Book your tickets at

birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/events/santas-grotto/ Find us on:

Your support keeps the Gardens growing

Issue 30

“Achievement is outstanding in English, history and music because teachers have excellent ways of inspiring students to learn in these subjects” OFSTED, June 2015: GOOD in all categories

www.kimichischool.co.uk 0121 679 5298

@Eastbourne House Acocks Green B27 6LL

(close to bus and train routes)

OPEN DAYS The Kimichi School difference: We offer a broad and balanced curriculum - with a strong musical focus Small classes (max 15 students) means personalised learning Competitively priced fees

Wednesday 2nd December 6-8pm

Saturday 12th December 11am-1pm Saturday 16th January 11am-1pm

Music specialism for fun, development beneﬁts or career

Help your child go far with Kip McGrath tutoring programmes for your child, using proven Kip McGrath methods of tuition.

Maths Reading Call today English Spelling for a FREE Comprehension assessment Tel: 0121 401 1814 78 Walsall Road, Sutton Coldﬁeld, B74 4QY

kipmcgrath.co.uk