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JULY - AUGUST 2017 ISSUE

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Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

…for parents with children aged 0 - 12

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Explore Learning

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Seize the summer with Explore Learning!

T

his summer, Explore Learning’s motto for your family is to “seize the summer”! To help they have put together a jam-packed summer programme to keep your child’s brain active.

Start a blog Start a family blog. Remember to take lots of photos while you are out and about.

Encourage your child to describe what is happening in the pictures for their blogs.

Have a movie night Why not find a book that has been made into a film that your child wants to watch?

Then read the book together before enjoying the film.

Send a postcard Let your friends and family know what you’ve been up to with a postcard. Or why not try a postcard app like By Post?

Read, read and read some more Explore Learning will be uploading weekly reading activities to help keep your child engaged with their books on explorelearning.co.uk/summer.

Play some games How about getting out some board games on rainy summer days? These develop language and improve memory skills.

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

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Tuition To keep your children progressing over the summer, a tuition centre is a great option. You can get them along to a centre where there are lots of other children getting involved. Explore Learning runs maths and English sessions as well as a whole range of interactive workshops throughout the holidays to keep your child’s brain active. The best thing is you can go along and try one of these for free, so get in touch today! explorelearning.co.uk

Contents Award-Winning 11+ Specialists Start today for

R

In this Issue...

4 News 6 Parenting 8 Music News 9 Health & Wellbeing

10 Competitions 11 Education 14 Summer Holiday Fun

17 Clubs & Classes 18 Holiday Camps 20 What’s On

4

£79* one-off payment

1 Month Intensive Course

Target your child’s weak areas before the 11+ entrance exam!

Personalised Daily Online Tests

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Maths, English, Verbal and NVR Timed Tests

Tackle weak areas with KSOL TargetTeach Technology R

Experienced 11+ Tutor Support Exclusive Access to 1-2-1 Tuition

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Tutor Support

Enrol Now and receive a FREE BONUS WEEK! Call 0121 733 6558 Visit www.ksol.co.uk

Books

Online

Exams

Centres

*All courses subject to a £15 course set-up fee

20

Hello and welcome to an action-packed summer issue of Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield magazine.

The Summer Holidays are heading our way fast! If you are thinking of the best things to do and the most interesting places to go with your young families look no further. In this issue we have ideas to keep your kids active, challenged and busy all through the holidays.

With fabulous concerts, museum exhibitions and activities in the great outdoors we really are spoilt for choice in our region. Maybe you are ready to start booking up your theatre tickets for later this year? Us parents know education matters during the holidays as well as in term time. So do take a good look at our education feature.

Have a great summer, and see you again in September – ready for our Back-to-School issue.

Get motivated for the 11plus

Suzanne Brown, Editor

These final weeks are crucial in the build up to the 11plus exam so it is vital for your child to stay engaged over the summer. With over 10 years of experience preparing children for the 11plus, KSOL can help them through this final stage.

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Next Issue:

Advertisers: Book now for our September - October issue.

Call: 07807 352087 or email: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk before Tuesday 8th August 2017 Design: Matt Walton Design

Print: Warners Midlands PLC, Manor Lane, Bourne. PE10 9PH Copyright Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, July 2017. ©Families Birmingham is part of a registered trademark. Families® Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Magazine Birmingham are protected by copyright. We take every 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 for any consequence.

Lead KSOL tutor, Julia, offers some useful advice: “Little and often is key. Get your child to constantly review their notes or use revision cards to keep everything at the forefront of their minds.

Remember to take a measured approach: you do not want to overload them!

“Make sure these activities are interactive and engaging. Our one month intensive online course uses a unique TargetTeach® solution to provide children with challenging daily tests which are designed to focus and improve areas of weakness. All progress is regularly monitored by our team of dedicated tutors.”

Online intensive revision courses start from £79 (+course set-up fee).

Visit www.ksol.co.uk for special offers or call 0121 733 6558 today!

Issue 40

3

News

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Plenty for families to do at mac Birmingham this summer Open 364 days a year, mac Birmingham is a contemporary arts centre and charity, set in the magnificent surroundings of Cannon Hill Park.

With over one million visits a year it’s the liveliest arts centre in the Midlands.

This summer from 24 July to 3 September families can enjoy a host of events, courses and activities both inside and out come rain or shine. Inside - children can enjoy one day courses including performance, digital media plus arts and crafts. In addition, mac Camps offer extended courses over 4-5 days, enabling children to further develop their creative skills including musical theatre, animation and dance. Young film buffs can also enjoy an increased selection of summer films in mac’s cinema.

Outside in mac’s outdoor amphitheatre – families can enjoy circus, comedy, cinema and theatre performances. With the help of mac’s generous funders the People’s Postcode Lottery, children and young people can experience a selection of £3.50 shows while enjoying the sunshine! www.macbirmingham.co.uk | 0121 446 3232

Big Family Festival returns for a second year

The West Midlands’ summer bonanza, Big Family Festival, is set to return to Dunton Hall in Sutton Coldfield, from Friday 28th – Sunday 30th July with an even bigger and better offering in store. Across multiple areas including an outdoor Main Stage and a workshops’ Den, the Big Family Festival offers a diverse programme of activities and music that the family and children of all ages can enjoy. The fun includes kids’ favourites Dick & Dom, The Sooty Show and Basil Brush; dozens of sports activities such as rounders, a Move With Peppa fitness class and flag football; a rousing lineup of the finest tribute acts out there, starring Rhapsody Queen, Black Magic Little Mix, Foo5ighters and Only One Direction. Also, you’ll find model making workshops with Wallace & Gromit creators Aardman Animations, plus an outdoor cinema screening Aardman classics, and much, much more.

For parents and grandparents alike, needing to keep the kids entertained this summer, look no further than the Big Family Festival. There are multiple ticket options available to fit varying budgets and timescales, from one-day tickets (adults £10 / children £5) to a three-day family-of-four camping tickets (£148).

4

Rush UK special offers Kids After School Meal Deal Head to Rush UK trampoline park (or pre-book your session) between the hours of 4pm – 6pm Monday to Friday and enjoy a Kids Meal, glass of apple or orange juice, dessert AND a 60 minute jump for just £12pp.

Fancy double the Rush? Jump for two hours between 4pm – 6pm from Monday to Friday and enjoy Kids Meal, glass of apple or orange juice and dessert for £17.50pp!

Valid term time Monday - Friday from 4pm – 6pm only. Offer ends July 21st 2017. Age 4+

For tickets visit www.skiddle.com/e/12810032 | www.bigfamilyfestival.co.uk

Holiday Camp Kids at home this summer with plenty of energy to spare? Take them to Rush UK where they can combine trampolining fun and other energetic activities, including Extreme Dodgeball, Trapeze and Slam Dunk Hoops with Arts & Crafts from 24th July to 1st Sept, £43/day (£39 if booked by 10th July) or 5 Day Week £199 (£179 if booked by 10th July) 9.30am-4.30pm. Only 25 children per day - Book early to avoid disappointment

Friday 28th – Sunday 30th July, Dunton Hall, Sutton Coldfield, B76 0BA

0121 726 8500, jump@rushuk.com, www.rushuk.com Unit 6, Avery Dell, Lifford Lane, Kings Norton, B30 3DZ

Issue 40

News

www.familiesonline.co.uk

A fun, inexpensive day out for the 10% off tickets Under-16s go free! whole family with code FAM2017

T

he Birmingham Bears are playing in the Natwest T20 Blast this summer at the world renowned Edgbaston stadium. It’s the ideal family day out with Under 16s going FREE. T20 is the best of cricket smashed up, repackaged and delivered in a quick, sharp, and explosive threehour window.

Family Days - there will be a designated Kids Zone that opens two hours before the start of play. Here, the kids can play for FREE in a safe environment on all different types of games. They’ll also have plenty of giveaways from clappits to headbands, so there will be plenty of souvenirs to take home.

Family days: Saturday 8th July, Sunday 16th, 23rd 30th July with the final family day on August 4th for the local derby vs Worcestershire Rapids!

So, come and support the Bears this summer!

For full schedule, what’s on and for tickets: birminghambears.com/whats-on

Explore Learning National Young Writers’ Award The theme for this year’s National Young Writers’ Award was ‘The Future’ and children across the country were tasked with writing a 500 word story set in 3017.

IN THE IC

Robots were overwhelmingly the most popular characters, whilst teleport and rockets were the common modes of transport in this fictional 3017setting. Meanwhile, planet earth was the most popular location, followed by the Moon and Mars.

Families Birmingham is proud to announce we have six talented writers who were announced regional winners! They are Hussain Arafat Mahmood (10); Millie Battye (11); Keira Harris (11); Anna Rudge (10); Olivia Walker (8); and Kitty Clifford (7). Each regional winner received a certificate, and a prize bundle of stationery goodies.

THE WIGGLES

WED 2 AUG 2017 11AM & 2PM THURS 3 AUG 2017 11AM RELAXED PERFORMANCE TOWN HALL

Well done to all our talented regional finalists for doing themselves proud.

STICK MAN

TUE 26 DEC 2017– 2017–FRI 12JAN JAN2018 2018 FRI 12 VARIOUS TIMES SUN 7 JAN 2018 3PM RELAXED PERFORMANCE TOWN HALL

See page 2 for details of the Summer Learning Programme.

Call 030 3003 4006 or visit explorelearning.co.uk to book your FREE TRIAL today.

Disney’s Passport to Adventure comes to Birmingham Book early for seats at the Disney On Ice Passport to Adventure. Journey to the most memorable Disney destinations with all of your favourite characters.

You and your family will explore the African Pride Lands with Simba, Timon and Pumbaa, voyage deep under the sea to Ariel’s mystical underwater kingdom and tour London with Peter Pan and Wendy, before flying to Neverland to meet up with Tinker Bell. You’ll also be whisked away for a wintery Frozen adventure with sisters Anna and Elsa.

18 - 29 October | Barclaycard Arena, Birmingham | www.disneyonice.co.uk

#PY PGåDF 0121 780 3333 www.thsh.co.uk Funded Funded by by

Town Town Hall Hall renovation renovation also also funded funded by by

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Parenting

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Coping with toddler tantrums W

hen your child is in the middle of a tantrum, it can be very hard to stop yourself from joining in! But do not fear - there is a solution to the tantrum episodes and ways to prevent them from happening again.

Ignorance is bliss

You should respond to a tantrum, but not react. When a child is in a full blown screaming tantrum, they have exploded with emotions, and there is no way of dragging them back to reality... yet. Ride the tantrum wave, and when they calm down then you can talk.

Keep calm and breathe

Even though you may want to lay next to your child and kick and scream alongside them, if you bite your tongue and remain authoritative rather than stressed, then your child will be more likely to calm quicker.

Distraction

A brilliant weapon in the parenting toolbox! Try and distract them before they descend into utter madness. Use humour to distract tricky situations, such as silly songs, laughing, or even tickles.

Recognise the signs

The good old saying “prevention is better than cure” is apparent here. Although we can’t always predict what will cause a tantrum, we can try and avoid it a second time around, or be prepared for heightened emotions such as hunger and tiredness that can lead to a tantrum.

The “calm corner”

If your child is having a meltdown at home, create a quiet corner such as the bottom step of the stairs, or the corner of the hallway.

Whilst they are there, do not give them much attention.

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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

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

Do not give into ‘I want it all’ style tantrums

One of the most common tantrums in the book. If your toddler is having a strop because you’re not allowing them to steal a toy off another toddler, or because of the chocolate you refused to give them, or even the toy they aren’t allowed to currently play with... do not give in! It’s hard, but it will be worth the investment in the future.

The limited words tantrum

There’s a lot of frustration with trying to communicate but only having a word bank of around 100 words. These tantrums can be helped with your assistance. Try to guess what they’re experiencing and then help your toddler explain and understand their feelings.

Praise the good

Reinforce and praise good behaviour. This helps your child realise there is a certain type of behaviour that leads to great results, hopefully teaching them to avoid tantrums.

Tantrums aren’t forever, but hopefully these tips will make them a little easier!

For more advice on tantrums, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk

Parenting

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Be there for a mum D

o you remember how hard it could be when your children were very young? How grateful you were if someone was kind enough to offer help to give you even five precious minutes of peace so you could catch your breath, grab a cuppa, or load the washing machine? If you are willing to offer a helping hand to another parent then Home-Start need you.

Home-Start Birmingham Central & South-West is looking for volunteers who can help make a real difference for a family who are feeling under pressure. It could be because a mum has post natal depression; or because they are coping with a multiple birth (double trouble or twice as nice!) or just because they are feeling isolated at home with very young children.

HOME START VOLUNTEERS WANTED

A Home-Start volunteer can help support a local family just by being there, offering practical support or a listening ear.

Home-Start is looking for parent volunteers to support families in Birmingham Central & South West The charity supports families with young children where parents are struggling with loneliness, post natal illness, relationship problems, single parenthood or coping with multiple births or several young children.

If you have experience of bringing up children and can spare a few hours a week, we would love you to join our team.

Volunteers can be of any age and from all walks of life.

Full training given for suitable volunteers. A training course starts in October 2017

Call 0121 675 4441 or e-mail: admin@homestartbcsw.org

Charity No: 1114963

If you have experience of being a parent (even if your own children are now older or have flown the nest) and you have a few hours to spare during the week, Home-Start would like to hear from you. Full training will be given to suitable volunteers. A training course starts in October and runs one day a week for six weeks from 9.30am – 2.30pm, fitting in with school hours.

0121 675 4441 admin@homestartbcsw.org | www.homestartbcsw.org

THE UK’s NO.1 FOREST ADVENTURE at Cannock Forest, nr. Rugeley

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7

Music News

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Totally teenage orchestral brilliance T his August join the world’s greatest orchestra of teenagers, the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, on an energetic voyage of musical discovery.

This summer’s programme includes a diverse range of musical items which are bound to ignite the excitement of any budding young musicians. A composition called Mural, by Francisco Coll, is a symphony where you can hear the bustle of urban life, and also the calmness of a mountain range.

Polaris by Thomas Adès beautifully paints a sound picture of night fall on Earth, illustrating how the North Star glitters brightly in the vastness of space. You’ll hear surging waves of brass undulate beneath the shimmering sparkle of piano and strings.

Finally it will be back down to Earth with a bang as the teenage musicians throw themselves into Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring with their characteristic energetic abandon. Come and experience its relentless percussion, stabbing strings and voluble winds.

Totally Teenage Reception, 6pm A lively, interactive pre-concert presentation made by NYO Young Promoters from local schools – alongside NYO Musicians – introducing music from the concerts.

Friday 4 August, 7.30pm | thsh.co.uk 0121 780 3333 |£12.50+ adults, £5 under 25s

The Strings Club arrives in Solihull From this summer onwards, Solihull’s aspiring young musicians can experience award-winning music programmes right on their doorstep. The Strings Club is delighted to be offering weekly term time classes, Ofsted registered holiday camps and fun-filled parties to children aged 4-11 in the local area.

To celebrate their arrival in Solihull, The Strings Club are running exciting Discovery Days where children will be able to try out two new instruments (choosing between ukulele, violin, guitar, and cello)… for free!

Children will enjoy an interactive introduction to their chosen instruments in two 20-minute lessons. At the end, your child can take part in the grand concert where they can proudly show off what they have learnt that day you will be amazed at what they can achieve in such a short space of time!

The Discovery Day is also the perfect opportunity to find out more about the String Club’s range of award-winning programmes.

Discovery Days: 22 July & 16 Sept | 10.30 – 12pm thestringsclub.org/solihull | 0121 296 9204 | FREE EVENT

STRAVINSKY

THE RITE OF SPRING ’A five-star fiesta of energy and talent’ THE GUARDIAN

’A dazzling showpiece for virtuoso youth’ THE TIMES

Friday 4 August, 7.30pm Symphony Hall, Birmingham Join a band of teenage pioneers exploring composers taking music to new frontiers.

£5 FOR

UNDER

25S

Tickets £12.50 — £28 (inc. ticket commission) Box office: 0121 780 3333 thsh.co.uk

In association with

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Issue 40 NYO071_SUMMER_CAMPAIGN_AD_(180x85mm)_AW.indd 1

15/06/2017 14:28

Health & Wellbeing

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Fuel up your busy life with super food berries

by Lesha Woodstock – regional Juice Plus rep

E

xperts recommend a minimum of 10 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. This is not always easy to achieve, so Juice Plus+ bridges the gap by supplementing your diet. Berries are delicious and are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

To get those nutritious berries inside you, you can: • Buy fresh or frozen berries at the super market or at your local farmer’s market • Pick your own berries at a local farm • Take Juice Plus Berry Blend bioavailable capsules Here’s a tasty summer Berry treat to make with your little ones:

JUICE PLUS+ POPSICLES INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS

• 500g low-fat yogurt

Mix yogurt, Juice Plus+ Complete Vanilla and agave syrup in blender.

• 2 scoops Juice Plus + Complete Vanilla • 500g berries (strawberries, raspberries, currants and blackberries)

Fold in a portion of the berries and blend.

Add the rest of the berries and pour the mixture into ice moulds.

Freeze until they are solid (about 4 hours).

• 60ml agave syrup Lesha Woodstock | Lwoodstock.juiceplus.com

For an exclusive £10 off offer (t&c apply) or for more information about Juice Plus+ products text ‘Berries’ to 07943 112186

Dental health for babies Recent research exposes a lack of clarity around what age a child should first visit the dentist, with only 13% believing they should first take their baby to the dentist at 6 months and 72% of mothers saying they have never seen any information on gum care for babies. The study also shows a lack of available information on baby oral care and teething. Over half of mothers (53%) report turning to their own mothers for information on dental issues such as managing their babies’ teething pain.

Currently, there is limited official messaging on the importance of oral care for babies, so BrushBaby is pushing for a focus from the spectrum of healthcare professionals on the importance of oral care from birth.

The Mums & Gums campaign wants consistent messaging which encourages mothers to take their young babies to the dentist and to regularly wipe their gums and mouths.

With the shocking number of under-5s in this country suffering tooth decay and the high cost to the NHS of extractions, clearly joined up early messaging is crucial. www.brushbaby.co.uk

Are your kids having too much salt?

By Emma Flanagan

Official guidelines have advised that children aged between 1 and 3 should have no more than 2g of salt per day.

According to new research by Kiddyum (of 2,000 parents of children aged 1-4), a staggering 84% of parents are not aware of how much salt their child should be having.

Meanwhile, 64% of parents also said that they trust food that’s marketed for children to be low in salt, but unfortunately, that doesn’t seem to be the case.

The research therefore highlighted the following shocking revelations: A portion of spaghetti hoops with two slices of toast can be 117% of a child’s daily amount of salt. While out of six prepared savoury meals for children, half of them contained one third of a child’s daily allowance of salt, while one contained 99% of the maximum serving of salt.

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Competitions

www.familiesonline.co.uk

WIN a family ticket* to Nativity! The Musical

WIN a family pass* for

Your favourite festive film is now a major new musical adapted for the stage by Debbie Isitt, the creator of the much-loved films. The world première production opens at Birmingham Repertory Theatre on 20 October, playing until 12 November

Adventure Island Mini Golf, the first 36 hole mini golf complex in England, is open from 10.30am every day over the school summer holidays for golfing fun. They have many excellent deals available, for example, a mini golf and tenpin bowling combo for just £10 per child (£12 per over 16 yr old). It’s the only place in the Midlands you can do both activities on one pass!

at Birmingham Repertory Theatre

Every child in every school has one Christmas wish, to star in a Nativity, and at St Bernadette’s School they’re attempting to mount a musical version! Only trouble is teacher Mr Maddens has promised that a Hollywood producer is coming to see the show to turn it into a film. Join him, his teaching assistant the crazy Mr Poppy, hilarious children and a whole lot of sparkle and shine as they struggle to make everyone’s Christmas wish come true.

Feel-good, funny and full of yuletide joy, Nativity! The Musical features all of the favourite sing-a-long hits from the films including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s the Brightest Star and a whole host of new songs filled with the spirit of Christmas!

For the chance to WIN a family ticket* (*2 adults and 2 children) to the performance of Nativity! The Musical on Monday 23 October, 7.30pm,simply answer the question below:

a session at Adventure Island Mini Golf, Star City

Families Birmingham has combo passes to giveaway to three lucky readers.

For a chance to WIN a family* pass (*for 2 adults & 2 children), worth £44, to play mini golf and a game of tenpin just answer the following question: Was Adventure Island Mini Golf at Star City: 1) The first 36 hole mini golf course in Birmingham?

What is the name of the crazy teaching assistant?

2) The first 36 hole mini golf complex in the Midlands?

a) Mr Daisy

Competition closes Friday 29th September.

3) The first 36 hole mini golf complex in England?

birmingham-rep.co.uk | 0121 236 4455

Closing date – Monday 24 July

b) Mr Lily

c) Mr Poppy

Competition T&Cs can be found on page 21

TO ENTER the competition(s) of your choice just email us by the given closing date. Put the name of your chosen competition in the subject line of your message, and send your answer, your name, postal address and best contact number to editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk - Good luck!

20 OCT – 12 NOV

30 NOV 2017 – 13 JAN 2018

Written and directed

by Debbie Isitt

By Dodie Smith Adapted for the stage by Debbie Isitt

Your favourite festive film is now a major new musical

Experience the magical story live on stage this Christmas

Autumn and Winter Season Now On Sale!

Box Office | 0121 236 4455 | BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK Registered in England 295910 Charity No.223660

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Join in the conversation

birminghamrep

@birminghamrep

@therepbirmingham

Education

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Starting primary school J

ust five minutes ago you were bringing your little one home from the hospital. Now you’re shopping for their first school uniform and trying to find a suitable pair of school shoes. Read on to find out what your child really needs to know before they start school.

Holding a pencil There is a myth that your child will be expected to at least write their own name before they start school. This isn’t the case at all, although the ability to hold a pencil confidently is quite useful, if possible.

Dressing and undressing Independent dressing is something children should be able to manage. Handling buttons may be tricky, but there is a reason why many early year’s uniforms are usually based around t-shirts and jumpers. Remember, staff will be there to help them with changing for PE.

Using the toilet on their own Now, this is a must-have skill. Unless a child has special needs, they will need to be able to go to the toilet independently, wipe themselves and flush the toilet.

Reading There is no expectation that any child should be able to read fluently at such a young age. So don’t spend the summer trying to drum the alphabet into your little one. There are lots of studies out there that show reading to your child every day has a far

better impact on their educational outcomes.

Mastering cutlery The chances are that your child will have cooked, school dinners, so if your child can confidently use a knife and fork, and cut their own food, it will make their lunchtimes a lot easier.

For more information about starting school, visit www.familiesonline.co.uk

How can 11 Plus Mocks help your child achieve 11 plus success?

1. Identify strengths and weaknesses at regular intervals. This information can be used to target preparation on areas that will make the most difference.

2. Improve examination techniques. For a child to succeed in the 11 Plus they must develop an ability to work effectively under examination conditions.

3. Familiarise your child with the format of the exam. The CEM style of 11 Plus exam is very different to the old style 11 Plus.

Many children enter the exam without any knowledge of what to expect.

4. Rank your child in comparison to other children preparing for the 11 Plus. It is important to see how your child is performing in comparison to a cross section of other children. The examinations come with a detailed statistical feedback report including a placement for each subject area.

The Free Mock for Year 4 is on 10th September 2017. Year 5 Mock Exams start from £75. You can book online at www.11plusmocks.co.uk Issue 40

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Education

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Making the transition from primary to secondary school Here are some tips which should help you support your child’s early months at secondary school: Before the transition:

Shield your child from your own anxiety. They need to know that you believe in their ability to deal with the difficulties and challenges ahead.

If your child will walk to school or travel independently on public transport, practice the new journey. Equip them with the skills needed to handle the unexpected, like bus detours and road closures.

After the transition: Become an Enabler rather than a Fixer. Watch and listen, help out if asked but don’t take over.

Support the development of friendships. It’s appropriate for this age group to have access to a basic mobile phone to communicate with friends, but clear boundaries should be agreed.

Support organisation and routines. Create “To Do” lists or “Timetables” for the fridge, agree places to keep bags, kit, and books. Establish morning routines so they can get to school punctually. Also, establish a homework routine early on. Label uniform and valuables.

Schedule time to relax. Make sure there is time for sleep, friends, homework, more sleep, watching TV, playing computer games and yet more sleep!

Remember - all will eventually be well.

by Linda Stone

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Education

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Boost your child’s learning this summer The pursuit of academic excellence continues during the summer holidays with Edgbaston Tuition. They will be running holiday academic booster courses where your child can have a term’s worth of tuition in just one week whilst having fun packed activities during break times. What a fantastic way to ensure your child returns to school with confidence and self-assurance.

Edgbaston Tuition Centre aims to: • Make learning enjoyable for all • Free up children’s time at home, allowing for more quality family time • Build children’s confidence across all areas of their life • Help students to excel academically, whatever that means for them • Encourage social interaction amongst peers The holiday courses run throughout the summer holidays but there are limited class numbers so book now to secure a place.

edgbaston tuitioncentre

“Learning Today Leading Tomorrow”

D ITE ES LIMPLAC

Edgbaston Tuition Centre believes that learning should be an interactive and social experience that both builds confidence and gets results.

Centrally located in Edgbaston, the Centre is run by a team of motivated and dedicated staff, who bring with them decades of experience in the education sector, are fully CRB checked, and were specially selected for the Centre.

0121 455 9211 | edgbastontuitioncentre@gmail.com www.edgbastontuition.com

Beat the back to school rush with Snappy Tag

Enjoy Learning | BUILD CONFIDENCE | MAKE FRIENDS

HOMEWORK CLUB MathS SCLMAASLLS English SIZES

11+ ARABIC QURAN

Daily Fun

Activities

Holiday booster courses register now

0121 455 9211

www.edgbastontuition.com

cen

edgbatsrtaoln locati on

e-mail: edgbastontuitioncentre@gmail.com 6 Greenfield Crescent, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3BE

Lazy summer days and plenty of ice-cream, that’s what summer is all about! But before you know it, it’s nearly September and time is spent rushing around the shops for uniform, shoes, pencil cases and bags. We’ve all had that ‘sinking’ feeling when we realise we’ve got to label it all – but not anymore!

Snappy Tags® are the quick and hassle free alternative to all that sewing or ironing. Simply order personalised tags and an applicator, and all you have to do is attach the tag to the care label inside the uniform. A half day’s work done in a 20 minute flash! To order tags, visit www.snappytags.co.uk

A one snap solu�on - they’re re-usable too!

“A truly wonderful product—Snappy Tags takes the hassle and pain out of labelling.” www.verymummy.com

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Keep Tabs on their clothes Recommended by

Tel: (01430) 819002 Issue 40

13

Summer Holiday Fun

www.familiesonline.co.uk

The Big Sleuth sponsored walk On Saturday 29 July, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity will bring the magic of The Big Sleuth to Sutton Park. Join them for a 5k sponsored walk through beautiful parkland and enjoy loads of grrr-eat activities including face painting, arts and crafts, balloon modelling, magicians and much more.

Get sponsored to take part in the family-friendly route and help Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity to do more for sick children (fancy dress optional). It’s sure to be a bearilliant day!

29th July 2017; 9:30am - 4:00pm; Sutton Park, Boldmere Gate, Sutton Coldfield B73 6LH www.funfamily5.bch.org.uk

Summer Theatre School - Young Actors Studio This summer, The Core Theatre, Solihull offers boys and girls, aged 8-16, the chance to get involved with a Summer Drama course in partnership with K22 Productions. The course will allow participants to explore their creative and performance potential in a safe, fun theatre environment through drama, dance and music.

Your child does not need previous experience to enjoy learning and working on stage as part of this youth theatre class. The aim is to help young people to develop their imaginations, communication skills and self-esteem too.

Over 5 days there will be the chance to watch and work with actors, and there may be the opportunity to participate in the family musical show The Jungle book on Friday 4 August.

Mon 31 Jul - Fri 4 Aug, 10am - 3pm, £120 per child thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

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Issue 40families bham.indd 1

16/06/2017 13:51:06

Summer Holiday Fun

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Huge moon set to land in Birmingham this summer

B

irmingham is set to have an out of this world experience this summer as a huge moon art installation lands at Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum, in July.

Museum of the Moon has been created by artist Luke Jerram and uses detailed imagery from NASA of the lunar surface to create a scale replica of the moon (approximate scale of 1:500,000).

The striking artwork will fill Thinkspace in Birminghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning Science Museum, creating an ethereal sight that visitors can enjoy by walking and sitting by the side of the moon, and bathing in its very own moonlight.

The installation will be accompanied by a range of moon inspired learning activities throughout the summer holidays including a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fly Me to the Moonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; science show, where families can discover fascinating facts about our moon and take part in rocket science demos. The packed programme will also include a Moon Buggies building workshop, and space art crafts.

Entry to Museum of the Moon will be included in the Thinktank ticket price and will be part of a summer season called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Looking Up, Looking Downâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

The adults donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to miss out either as Talisker Whisky and the Birmingham Whisky Club will be hosting a unique lunar-inspired tasting event under Museum of the Moon on Saturday 5th August! birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank | www.my-moon.org | 21st July to 20th August 2017

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THINKTANK See the endless possibilities VDLOLQJ DQG ZLQGVXUðQJ can bring

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birminghammuseums.org.uk/whats-on Funded by:

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rya.org.uk/onboard

06/04/2017 11:40 Issue 40

15â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Summer Holiday Fun

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Summer Reading Challenge 2017 T

he annual Summer Reading Challenge for children is simple. During the holidays they are encouraged to read six or more books of their choice - fact books, joke books, picture books or audio books - just as long as they are borrowed from the library.

There are collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate for every child who completes the Challenge, which is run by independent charity The Reading Agency. Children can sign up at their local library from the end of June onwards and all materials are absolutely free.

This year’s theme is Animal Agents, introducing young readers to a variety of clever creatures, specially trained to use their skills and natural instincts to unravel mysteries. Animal Agents is illustrated by Tony Ross, illustrator of the hugely popular Horrid Henry series. He is published all over the world; his awards and nominations include the Roald Dahl Funny Prize, Kate Greenaway Medal, and the Smarties Prize.

The Challenge is open to all primary school children and is designed for all reading abilities. Schools work with local libraries and give out information to encourage children to take part, and most libraries run Summer Reading Challenge linked early years activity for pre-schoolers.

Why not head to your local library during the summer holidays and enrol. It’s completely free and any child can take part.

Read more at www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

TIC FAN T A S Sunday CreWa t iRvKe SHOPS O

Summer Fun at Adventure Island Mini Golf Come along this summer for a heap of golfing fun at Adventure Island Mini Golf, Star City. Here you will find two fantastically themed 18 hole indoor crazy golf courses across three different levels featuring tiki huts, waterfalls, volcanoes… much more than you’d expect from any other adventure mini golf course!

Why not try out the Hidden Cove Challenge mini golf course which takes you around the base of the supposedly ‘dormant’ volcano and then past Adventure Falls and on into Lost Settlers Cave? If you manage to find your way out watch out for the talking Tiki Totem poles!

SUMMER ART SCHOOLS! 8,9 & 10 AUG 22, 23 & 24 AUG

�4�8YRS AND 8�12YRS�

£25 PER CHILD!

BOOKING ESSENTIAL

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16

Issue 40

LITTLE ARTISTS

14 & 21 JULY £5, PLEASE BOOK

Or how about the Lost Hut Trail mini golf course which starts on a ridge above Hidden Cove Challenge and meanders through towers of rock, abandoned temples and old island villages. Keep an eye out for the cheeky Easter Island Heads!

There’s £1 off every 18 holes with the voucher on page 21 and completely free Park Mark Approved car-parking just off Junction 6 of the M6.

EARLY YEARS SESSIONS!

Families First at the Barber Institute

Clubs and Classes

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Big Arena Performing Arts

Does your child have a passion for performing, a dedication to dance, or perhaps they would like to develop show-stopping singing skills?

Do they have a longing to ‘tread the boards’?

Big Arena Performing Arts would like to welcome your child, boys as well as girls, to take part in their singing, drama and dance classes in United Reformed Church, Sutton Coldfield on Saturdays, 10am – 1pm. No experience is necessary. Highly experienced specialist DBS checked staff run quality classes in each of the arts disciplines.

Ages 3 - 18 years Tel: 07855 923371 Open: Saturdays 10am - 1pm

This summer there will be a production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, which will be performed 18 and 19 July. After that, rehearsals will begin for a show-stopping variety performance. Lights, camera, action!

A parent’s guide to clubs and classes Clubs and classes are a great way to continue your child’s development, as well as allow them to have fun, get exercise and socialise.

Here are just a few of the clubs and classes on offer, and some of the benefits they can bring: Baby and Toddler Physical Sensory Classes are great for very young children.

These classes allow you to explore a multi-sensory environment with your child, with organised activities in place for you to enjoy as well as the freedom to discover and have fun.

Music, dance, drama and art classes really help younger people release their creative thoughts, learn discipline, and help them to achieve what they may not have realised was possible. As well as the joys of the arts, these classes also provide a great way to develop other skills - like patience, discipline, social and physical abilities.

Rugby and football are not just for boys – they’re for girls too. Your children can learn a wide variety of skills from these sports, including respect, winning and losing, and working together.

Cubs and Brownies are a great way to get your child to experience the outdoors and engage and socialise with others. The huge range of activities on offer in Cubs and Brownies, and great skills to learn, are sure to get your child off to a good start.

Whichever class you choose, they all have great benefits for different kinds of children.

DANCE DANCE&&DRAMA DRAMA CENTRAL CENTRALSTAGE STAGESCHOOL SCHOOL Tap TapStreet StreetJazz JazzMusical MusicalTheatre Theatre Solihull: Solihull:Adult Adult&&Children’s Children’sClasses Classes Free Freeplaces placesfor fornursery nurserychildren children Tel: Tel:Claire Claire07939 07939529 529227 227 info@centralstageschool.co.uk info@centralstageschool.co.uk

DUBARRIE DUBARRIESCHOOL SCHOOLOF OFDANCE DANCE Ballet, Ballet,Tap Tapand andJazz Jazzage age2 2½½++ Branches BranchesininYardley Yardleyand andSolihull Solihull Telephone: Telephone:0121 0121744 7441422 1422 www.dubarrieschoolofdance.com www.dubarrieschoolofdance.com

Sutton Coldfield www.bigarenaperformingarts.co.uk

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

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Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

www.bigarenaperformingarts.co.uk | 07855 923371 |

Find out more today: stagecoach.co.uk/edgbaston edgbaston@stagecoach.co.uk ™

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MASQUERADE MASQUERADEMUSICAL MUSICALTHEATRE THEATRE Youth YouthTheatre TheatreGroup, Group,Age Age5+ 5+

Garretts GarrettsGreen GreenLane, Lane,Sheldon, Sheldon,B26 B262SA 2SA

Telephone: Telephone:0121 0121722 7223761 3761 www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com

Solihull SolihullYoung YoungDancers Dancers Ballet Ballet&&Tap TapLessons Lessons Classes Classesfrom fromage age22½½++ Tel: Tel:Kate Kateon on07722 07722732678 732678

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Ages 4 upwards.

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TO ADVERTISE PLEASE CALL

07807 352087 Issue 40

17

Holiday Camps

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Inspire your child this summer -

Learn new skills

-

Build confidence

-

Make new friends

Summer holiday childcare D

uring the summer months many working parents find themselves in need of quality childcare. This holiday childcare feature will provide you with plenty of ideas to keep your children entertained, and learning new skills in a fun, safe environment.

For further holiday camps information visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk

Award winning Ofsted registered Holiday Camps for children aged 4-11 in Harborne, Sutton Coldfield and coming soon to Solihull

Quote FAMILIESWM2017 for up to 10% off! thestringsclub.org/westmidlands | 0121 296 9204

Ofsted

Action-packed childcare this

Summer Holiday

yr olds e for 8-16 m e h c S y lida School Ho

Choice of venues open from 8am - 6pm

NEW FOR SUMMER 2017

Solihull Alderbrook School

26th July - 1st September

Sutton Coldfield Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School

Lots of activities and sports to choose from

24th July - 1st September

Walsall

Queen Mary’s Grammar School

24th July - 1st September

Book before 7th July and take advantage of our

Early bird offers!

We accept childcare vouchers

For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979

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Issue 40

EVERYDAY ADVENTURES

registered

Activities g in it c x rs!

Fun, e t outdoo a e r g e in th yak, anoe, Ka C , b m li !

Ski, C ft & more Bushcra ol pm scho 6 ll ti m a 8 . eekdays holiday w

ONLY £37 PP PER DAY!

BOOK ONLINE TODAY!

Ackers Adventure Birmingham B11 2PY www.ackers-adventure.co.uk 0121 772 5111

Holiday Camps

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Action-packed childcare for children aged 4 -14 years Ofsted registered childcare throughout the school holidays

A

spire Active Camps provide sports and activity childcare during every school holiday throughout the year for children between 4-14 years old.

Their number one aim is to ensure your child has fun. However, safety is paramount and as an Ofsted registered provider, they go that extra mile giving you peace of mind in knowing that your child is cared for in the best environment possible. All their child protection policies are in place and their coaches are suitably qualified in first aid and safeguarding to ensure your child’s safety at all times.

To provide the greatest affordability, Aspire provides fantastic early booking offers for those booking in advance. They also offer discounts and a loyalty scheme to their valued customers. As they are Ofsted registered you are also able to pay via childcare vouchers. www.aspire-sports.co.uk

Fun & exciting summer activities Super Camps’ fabulous new Multi-Activity programme at Dame Elizabeth Cadbury Technology College, B30 1UL, allows children to get involved in some great activities. As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly enjoyable time on camp. As Ofsted noted, Super Camps runs “an excellent programme of well-planned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment”. supercamps.co.uk | 01235 467300

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Issue 40

19

What’s On

Find us on

OUT & ABOUT THIS SUMMER

Aston Hall

Trinity Road, Aston, Birmingham, B6 6JD, birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston 0121 348 8038 Take the kids on a walk through the striking interiors and see the home that received royalty, and which was besieged during the English Civil War. Children’s summer reading activities are taking place this year. See Aston Hall in its past and the secrets hidden in its portraits.

Awaken young creativity in Aston’s drawing challenges!

Baddesley Clinton

Baddlesley Clinton, B93 0DQ; Packwood House, B94 6AT nationaltrust.org.uk, 01564 783294

@familiesbirmingham

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3TR birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk 0121 454 1860 Admission: Adult £7; Concession £4.75; Children under 5 free At Botanical Gardens let the kids loose to discover amazing plants, brilliant birds, bugs and beasties and tremendous trees. Catch performances of Paw Patrol, 26.7.17; and The Wind in the Willows 27.7.17.

In August, there’s a Waterslide Day 18.8.17, a Circus on 22.8.17, and a Teddy Bear’s Picnic 23.8.17

Picturesque medieval moated manor house. There is a delightful garden with ponds, a lake and a nature walk. See how many of the Fifty things to do before the age of 11 ¾ you can do here.

Golden Hillock Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B11 2PY ackers-adventure.co.uk 0121 772 5111

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Barber Institute of Fine Arts University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TS barber.org.uk 0121 414 2261 education@barber.org.uk Come and try out the Creative Sunday workshops, fabulous Family Days, Summer Art Schools, and the Little Artists early years sessions.

Your children will be inspired to create wonderful pieces of art using a range of mediums and techniques.

Book early to avoid disappointment!

Charges apply.

Adventure Island Mini Golf Units 20/21, Star City, Watson Road, Birmingham, B7 5SB, adventureminigolf.co.uk, 0121 328 7474

A fun indoor golf complex for all the family with two themed 18 hole courses.

Built on three levels and winding round palm trees and volcanoes, through caves and behind waterfalls. See page 21 to get £1 off every 18 holes.

Interiors

Antiques, Furnishings, Wood Burners, Weddings, Giftware, Curtains, Blinds, Shabby Chic, Chalk Paint, Art, Commissions accepted.

e Enjoy tinh g p p o sh nce experie

Interests

Tack & Animal Feed, Giftware, Toys, Candles, Needlework & Bunting, Floristry, Wood-turning, Pottery Parties.

Food and Drink

Licensed Restaurant, Chocolate Shop, Tea Rooms

Fashion

ir Craft Fyas Sunda

- 16th July st - 20th Augupt.

- 17th Se

Jewellery, Handbags, Wedding, Cocktail and Daywear, Handmade Leather Goods, Encaustic Art, Ladies Clothing, Knitting Kits & More...

Fun

The Children’s Farm & Parties, Pets Corner.

Big

ay Bounce D .

17th Sept 11am-4pm

Open all year (inc Bank Holidays) Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm Tel: 024 7639 4433 www.hoar-park.co.uk B4114 Nr Ansley, Nuneaton, Warwickshire CV10 0QU

20

Issue 40

Edgbaston Stadium – The Birmingham Bears

Edgbaston Stadium, Edgbaston Rd, Birmingham, B5 7QU birminghambears.com/tickets 0844 847 1902 email: t20@edgbaston.com Gates open 2 hours before play Tickets: Under 16s FREE; Adult from £15

Get 10% off tickets with promo code FAM2017

Ackers Adventure

For adventure lovers and have-a-go whizz kids. Outdoor pursuits centre where you can ski, toboggan, climb, abseil, canoe, kayak, zipwire, take part in a jungle challenge, or test your orienteering skills..

@familiesbirm

Chamberlain Sq., Birmingham, B3 3DH, 0121 348 8000 birminghammuseums.org.uk/bmag General admission: FREE Little One’s Playtime 19 July, 11am – 1pm, Free A playful sensory session ideal for 12 months – 5 years.

Computer Game Design Wednesdays 26 Jul - 30 Aug, 11am - 1pm & 2pm - 4pm £3.50 per person, Age 8+ A cool way to spend a morning or afternoon. Totally fun, no prior experience necessary.

Drawbots Fridays 28 July - 1 Sept, 11am - 1pm & 2pm - 4pm £3.50 per person, Age 6+ Drawbots are special robots, with pens for legs, that draw on the paper for you.

Black Country Living Museum

Tipton Road, Dudley, DY1 4SQ bclm.co.uk, 0121 557 9643 Days: Weds – Open daily.

Time: 10am-5pm Admission: Adults £17.50; Children from £8.75; free for under 4’s There’s always plenty to do at BCLM! Meet the costumed characters, visit the shops and houses, see live demonstrations, face the harsh reality of a coal miner’s life in the mid 19th century, go to the fun fair, and have some fish and chips – 1930s style!

Saturday 8th July-7.00pm- Birmingham Bears vs Notts Outlaws Friday 14th July- 7.00pm- Birmingham Bears vs Northamptonshire Steelbacks Sunday 16th July-2.30pm- Birmingham Bears vs Leicestershire Foxes Sunday 23rd July- 2.30pm- Birmingham Bears vs Derbyshire Falcons Friday 28th July- 7.00pm- Birmingham Bears vs Yorkshire Vikings Sunday 30th July- 2.30pm- Birmingham Bears vs Lancashire Lightning Friday 4th August- 7.00pm- Birmingham Bears vs Worcestershire Rapids.

Hatton Adventure World

Dark Lane, Hatton, Warwick CV35 8XA Book online for DISCOUNTS hattonworld.com 01926 843411 This summer come along and experience Hatton’s amaizing Mega Maze, Water Wars and Water Battles, and Over 8’s Entertainment programme.

Meet the exotic animals in Scales and Tails. Remember to visit the goats, pigs, donkeys, alpacas… and the new wallaby family!

The Core Theatre

Solihull Theatre Square, Touchwood, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RG, thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962, July – Aug, Life’s a Beach Beach fun outside Core Theatre’s doors, plus bears, dinosaurs and beach parties!

July-Sept, The Big Sleuth Sculpture Trail across West Midlands including Solihull venues, FREE Weds 26 July, Booktivity Craft and Quiz, 4-5.30pm, for age 10+, FREE Thur 27 July, Decoupage Class with Helen from Decopatch, 2–4pm for ages 4+ £10.

Herbert Museum

Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP theherbert.org 024 7623 7521 Early Years Exhibition: A Very Viking Voyage Runs until 28 August 2017 Summer Holidays: Family Day 28 July 2017, 10am – 4pm Summer Holidays Weeks 1 - 5: Various Viking themes 29 July – 2 Sept, 10.30 – 3.30 Arts, crafts and activity workshops for children.

Please mention Families Magazine when you book one of these events!

What’s On

Packwood House

Packwood House, B94 6AT nationaltrust.org.uk/packwood-house, 01564 783294 This summer, why not pay a visit to this much restored Tudor House, with a huge collection of 16th century textiles and furniture, and relax in its stunning gardens. Plenty for families to see and do..

Rush Trampoline Park Holiday Camp

Hoar Park, Shopping and Craft Village

Competitions. Terms and conditions.

1. Only one entrant from the same email account will be accepted.

2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering.

3. Entries must be received by the closing date stated on each individual competition. Proof of entering cannot be taken as proof of receipt.

4. All decisions of Families Birmingham are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

5. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize.

6. Winners’ contact details will be supplied to the Promoter of each competition.

Museum of the Jewellery Quarter

75-80 Vyse Street, Birmingham, B18 6HA, birminghammuseums.org.uk/jewellery, 0121 348 8140 The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter is built around a perfectly preserved jewellery workshop offering a unique glimpse of working life in Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter. This summer activities include guided Heritage walks around the Quarter 5.8.17 & 9.9.17; a live jazz performance 22.7.17; and a free admission day 29.7.17.

7. Families Birmingham is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition.

8. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions.

9. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and contacted via the email account provided by the entrant. If Families Birmingham does not obtain a response from the winner within 24 hours, we reserve the right to select another winner at random.

10. This competition is restricted to residents of the West Midlands only.

***ALWAYS check the venue’s website in case of changes to schedule. Thank you.

FREE PA R K I N G!

STAR CIT Y, M 6/J 6 AD VENTUREMINIGOLF.CO.UK

Not valid with any other offer, only valid for 1 person per voucher.

B4114 Nr Ansley, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV10 0QU hoar-park.co.uk,024 7639 4433 Craft Fairs Date: Sundays: 16 July; 20 Aug; 17 Sept Times: 10am – 5pm Come along to Hoar Park’s Craft Fair and bag yourself a treat. You’ll find everything from fashion to interiors, arts and crafts.

There’s fun for the little ones too in the Children’s Farm and Pets Corner. Hoar Park is open Tues-Sun every week.

Unit 6, Avery Dell, Lifford Lane, Kings Norton, B30 3DZ www.rushuk.com, jump@rushuk.com, 0121 726 8500 Combine trampolining fun and other energetic activities, including Extreme Dodgeball, Trapeze and Slam Dunk Hoops with Arts & Crafts from 24th July to 1st Sept, £43/day (£39 if booked by 10th July) or 5 Day Week £199 (£179 if booked by 10th July) 9.30am-4.30pm. Only 25 children per day - Book early to avoid disappointment!

AMG_87x60mm_Advert.indd 1

16/05/2017 15:35

THE GREAT SUMMER ADVENTURE Summer Holidays

!

W NE MEGA MAZE WATER WARS

18699A 06/17

Grea Sav t Onli ings ne! www.hattonworld.com

Plus all your Hatton favourites Issue 40

21

What’s On Shows & Concerts Birmingham Hippodrome Hurst St, Southside, B5 4TB birminghamhippodrome.com 0844 338 5000

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Mr Spud has lost all his money... a few billion! So his son Joe decides to hold a garage sale. Find out what happens in this delightful outdoor family show. Bring your own seat or blanket and picnic etc. See website for full terms/info.

The Core Theatre

Solihull Theatre Square, Touchwood, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RG, thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962

The Jungle Book

photo by Richard Davenport

Date: Fri 4 August Time: 2.30pm Tickets: £8 The classic tale of boy Mowgli and his jungle friends in this fun holiday theatre show with lots of audience participation and singing.

Jungle Book (dance)

on the magical island of Neverland with beautifully designed costumes, music and songs.

Miracle Theatre venture into a world somewhere between Alice in Wonderland and the Marx Brothers to bring us this comic masterpiece.

Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ thsh.co.uk, 0121 780 3333

Dotty The Dragon

Date: Thurs 31 August Times: 12pm; 3pm Tickets: £10 Age: 3+ Find out what happens when Dotty, a baby Fire Dragon visits the villagers. Show features song, puppetry and fun high energy storytelling .

mac birmingham Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH macbirmingham.co.uk 0121 446 3232 info@macbirmingham.co.uk Dates: 25-26 July Times: Tickets: Advance prices £11 adult, £10 child

National Youth Orchestra

Town Hall, Birmingham

Brueton Park

Billionaire Boy

Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA, thsh.co.uk, 0121 780 3333 Date: Fri 4 Aug Time: 7.30pm Tickets: £12.50 -£28/£5 under 25s nyo.org.uk/2017 Come and witness the vibrant energetic performance of one of the world’s best youth orchestras. Ignite your child’s inner musician! The programme includes The Rite of Spring by Stravinsky.

Dates: Wed 19 - Sat 22 July Time: 2.30pm; 7pm Tickets: £18 Age guidance: 8+ Come and see Kipling’s classic tale come crashing into the 21st Century with spectacular street-dance and breathtaking circus skills. A production to delight the whole family.

New Road, B91 3HW thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962,

Symphony Hall, Birmingham

The Third Policeman Date: Sat 8 July Time: 7.30pm Tickets: £15 (£13) Age: 7+

Circus Day: Taking Flight

Date: Sun 30 July Time: 12noon; 3.30pm Tickets: £6 Stunning aerial circus, acrobatics, poetry and dance from world-renowned RoguePlay Theatre. A mesmerising and spectacular combination of circus and theatre.

Chapterhouse Theatre Company: Peter Pan Date: Sat 26 Aug Time: 2pm Tickets: £15 (£10) Join Wendy, Michael and John Darling on their adventures with Peter, far away

The Wiggles

Date: Wed 2 – Thu 3 Aug Time: 11am; 2pm Tickets: £19 Get ready for some fantastic fun – Wiggles style! Emma, Lachy, Simon and Anthony come to Town Hall for the first time.Come and hear your favourite Wiggles songs.

A must for all family fans. ***ALWAYS check the venue’s website in case of changes to schedule. Thank you.

SUMMER SEASON 26 - 03 MAY SEP

Enjoy an affordable Summer of culture and fun at mac! macbirmingham.co.uk

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Issue 40

Registered Company no. 718349 | Registered Charity no. 528979

mac Birmingham

www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Chase & Marshall will be appearing at intervals between 11am and 3.30pm.

Admission Tickets are ÂŁ25.00 and includes entry to the gardens and a 6-month family membership to the Botanical Gardens. Family membership admits 2 Adults and 3 Concessions. Memberships will run from August to February and will be available to collect on the day of the event.

For more information please contact reception birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk Find us on:

Your support keeps the Gardens growing

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Issue 40

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THE COOL WAY TO HAVE FUN THIS SUMMER Come rain or shine trampolining is the healthy & active way to keep your kids engaged this summer The best ice cream in town A calendar of special events Healthy food & refreshments for all the family 3URPRWLRQV VSHFLDO RÎ?HUV Summer camps Birthday parties

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