Families bham ma17 #38

FRE

MARCH - APRIL 2017 ISSUE 38

Tak e

me

ho

E

me

R

!

Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Quote FAM I LI ES save 4 to 0% on tickets

BOOK NOW! Buy stick on labels for clothing!

Quick & Easy

01786 473 508

19 - 21 May

NEC Birmingham

thebabyshow.co.uk/birmingham See page 5 for more details Tuition Plus

‘Helping students achieve their true potential’

Step into Spring Fitted Footwear for Toddlers to Teens 21a York Road, Kings Heath, Birmingham B14 7SA

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Professional Tutoring Literacy & Numeracy Free Initial Assessment

FEWER doctor visits, FEWER missed school days, FEWER soft drinks

100% Fruit & Veg - Better Health - FREE for Kids

Harvest Fields Centre, B75 5TJ (Tues & Sat) Mere Green Centre, B75 5BT (Wed & Thurs) Tel: 07592 556 452

Email: info@tuition-plus.co.uk www.tuition-plus.co.uk

Web: Lwoodstock.juiceplus.com

Email: Lwoodstock.juiceplus@gmail.com

Mobile: 07943112186

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

@familiesbirm

Education

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Take the fear out of exams in 2017 W

e all know that the lead up to exam season can be a daunting time for child and parent. With phonics screening checks, teacher assessments, and SATs, you might often wonder how best to support your child.

While there is no magic formula for exam success, there are many ways to help children feel prepared and confident about assessments.

Start early by planning ahead. Revisiting a range of subject areas in manageable, weekly chunks can be much more beneficial to supporting memory, skills, and confidence than ‘cramming’.

Everyone learns and revises in their own way. Some children like visual representations and sticky notes around the house whereas others will respond better to conversations and answering questions aloud. Find a learning style and timetable that works for your child and create a plan to suit this.

Be sure to remain positive and praise them when you see them accomplish something great: hearing “you’ve done a fantastic job today!” will undoubtedly build their self-belief.

At Explore Learning, we’re here to support the whole family from day one. We offer tailored maths and English tuition from expert staff, and exam preparation workshops and parent information evenings throughout the year so that everyone feels confident at home.

AWARD-WINNING

For more advice and top tips, and to book your free trial session, visit our website: www.explorelearning.co.uk/blog/exam-preparation-how-to-support-your-child/

INSPIRING ENGAGING TUTORS CURRICULUM

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

/explorelearning /explorelearning 2

Issue 38

@exploretutors @exploretutors

Contents

www.familiesonline.co.uk

11+ Tuition For children in Years 4 & 5

Welcome to the March-April issue of Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield magazine.

Spring is such a wonderful time of year, a time of rebirth and renewal, a chance to start afresh as the best version of ourselves. Take a look at the Healthier Living article written

by Lesha Woodstock of Juice Plus, on page 8, about the importance of boosting our natural immunity and keeping active. After all, our family’s health is our family’s wealth.

Also, I’m delighted to introduce the young ‘Green-Fingered George’ who gives tips about getting our little ones out in the garden having fun.

Personalised 11+ Courses Book your child’s FREE 11+ TRIAL % er 98 hy ov mend w t u m o “Find rents reco nds” ie r pa u o y & fr f o famil us to

You’ll find this issue positively packed with the very best our great region has to offer this spring. Look no further, it’s all right here – in Families Magazine.

Suzanne Brown, Editor

& s ine e Onl Centr n o i t i m u a s T k Ex Moc essions 1s 1-2ops ksh Wor

Over 10 years of experience

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Excellent tutor feedback Profile your child’s ability

Call 0121 733 6558

In this Issue...

4 News 6 Clubs and Classes 7 Get Crafty!

8 Education 10 Parenting 11 Outdoor Fun 12 Easter Holidays 13 Theatre and

4

Next Issue:

Advertisers: Book now for our May-June issue.

Call: 07807 352087 or email: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk before Friday 7th April 2017

Making the 11plus accessible for every child

www.ksol.co.uk *All KSOL courses are subject to a £15 course set-up fee for new customers.

8 11

Concerts

14 What’s On

Award-Winning 11+ Provider

14

Design: Matt Walton Design

Print: Warners Midlands PLC, Manor Lane, Bourne. PE10 9PH Copyright Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, March 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.

Finalist 2012

EEgagssttraevraganza Free entry for kids

Easter Sunday Join us for a choc-tastic Easter Sunday as we delve deep into the Gardens on an eggsciting Easter egg hunt! There will also be a chocolate factory and workshop, plus lots of other activities throughout the day.

Easter Monday Bouncy castle, children’s entertainer, Easter bonnet parade, face painting and arts & crafts 10th – 14th April There will be lots of fun activities for all weathers such as arts & crafts, pond dipping, bug hunting and story walks.

Please note some of the activities will be chargeable. For more information please contact reception or visit us at;

birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/whatson Find us on: Your support keeps the Gardens growing

Issue 38

3

News

www.familiesonline.co.uk

The Scarecrow’s Wedding B

Birmingham Town Hall

etty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay are excellent scarecrows (they scare a lot of crows). Harry loves Betty, and Betty loves Harry - so they decide to get married and Harry sets off to search for their wedding day essentials including a dress of feathers, a bunch of flowers and a necklace made from shells.

for her? Will Harry make it back in the nick of time before Reginald ruins their special day?

However, when the farmer notices he is missing a scarecrow, he replaces Harry with the devilishly smooth but dangerous Reginald Rake. Dashing, daring and ever so cool, can Reginald persuade Betty that he is the scarecrow

This epic love story is suitable for all aged 3+.

This truly heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s new bestselling book is bursting at the seams with Scamp Theatre’s inimitable style (Stick Man, Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales, Pirate Gran) and promises wit, drama, and wedding bells!

thsh.co.uk; 0121 780 3333; £12.50, Friday 14 April, 1pm; Saturday 15 April, 11am & 1pm

Independent Footwear Retailer Brings Home Second National Award Kings Heath based children’s footwear specialist, Cooshoo, has been awarded Best Footwear Store Category at the prestigious CWB Independent Retail Awards in December 2016. Cooshoo beat off tough competition from several recognised retailers across the country to gain the title of Best Footwear Store, receiving praise from judges for their wide selection of footwear brands suitable for developing feet, as well as their outstanding fitting service and strong digital presence.

Director of Cooshoo, Anna Swift, says: ‘At Cooshoo we have two passions - keeping children’s feet healthy and comfy, and well designed cool footwear. We strive to provide exceptional service to all our customers through our expert fitting service, family friendly store and wide range of styles to suit lots of different foot shapes and tastes! It is fabulous to be recognised nationally for this by winning the Best Children’s Footwear Award!’ cooshoo.co.uk; cooshoo@btinternet.com; 0121 444 1808

Bournville BookFest is back!

Tickets are now on sale for Bournville BookFest 2017 - a 10-day celebration of storytelling for children taking place in 15 different venues across Birmingham this Spring.

From Friday 17 March to Sunday March 26, Busy Parents Network has invited a vast array of authors, artists, and actors to ignite young imaginations. There will comic-writing, drama, pirates, writing your own adventures, a guinea pig party, singing, dance, animation, toddler under-the-sea adventures, bedtime stories, Fairy Tale trail, and the chance to meet your favourite authors. From singing sessions for 2 year olds, to writing workshops for 8-12 year olds, there really is something for everyone.

Draw Harry Potter with award-winning illustrator Jonny Duddle Sing along to Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes Have a selfie with Winnie the Witch Draw, sing and make bear masks with David Litchfield, The Bear & The Piano.

There’s a host of creative BookFest events for teenagers and young adults too.

Bournville BookFest is organised by the multi-award winning Busy Parents Network.

Tickets from just £3.50, bournvillebookfest.com

4

Issue 38

News

www.familiesonline.co.uk

The Baby Show – for bump, baby and you!

Get ready to enjoy a fantastic shopping experience at the UK’s leading pregnancy and parenting event of the year. The Baby Show with Made for Mums returns to NEC Birmingham for three days only - with amazing offers all in one place!

Quote FAM ILIES for your 4 0% ticket disc ount when boo king online!

Brand experts will be on hand to help so you can find the perfect products for you and your family. You’ll hear a range of expert speakers, and will find 200 market leading exhibitors showcasing an array of essential baby products from brands, such as iCandy, Stokke, UppaBaby, Chicco, Britax, MAM, Nuby, Mothercare and Italian brand Peg Perego. And why not take advantage of the free Emma’s Diary Collect-By-Car service?

It really is a must-attend show for mums and dads-to-be, parents, friends and family members. thebabyshow.co.uk/birmingham | 19th – 21st May | Tickets on the door - £20

Discover the future… TODAY The Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Fair is an award-winning combination of exciting theatre shows, interactive workshops and exhibits, and careers information from STEM professionals. It aims to show young people (primarily aged 7-19) the exciting and rewarding opportunities out there for them by bringing classroom learning to life.

Why not catch one of their incredible shows, such as: BodyHacking, Stefan Gates The Gastronaut team drags you kicking and screaming through the most disgusting, stinking, beautiful place on earth: the human gut.

Do try this at home! By Festival of the Spoken Nerd You don’t need expensive kit or a fancy laboratory to do your own experiments. From gravity-defying curtain chains to the smartphone in your pocket, nothing escapes their DIY demonstrations!

For your FREE tickets go to www.thebigbangfair.co.uk NEC Birmingham | 15 – 18 March 2017 – Family Day Saturday 18 March

Tamworth Castle – Family Fun Days Out As we look forward to brighter Spring days there really couldn’t be a better place to enjoy the school holidays and to plan some family fun than at Tamworth Castle.

Easter Egg Hunt, 8th - 21st April Family fun for Easter with an ‘egg-stra’ special egg hunt. Ruby the Castle Dragon has hidden her eggs from the dragon hunter. She has been very clever and disguised them, but now cannot find them! Can you help her?

St George’s Day, 22nd April Celebrate St George’s Day with fun activities at the Castle. Learn about Medieval armour and weaponry, play Medieval games, and view the spectacular jousts.

Storytelling with Ruby, 29th April to 1st May Come and listen as the storyteller enchants your children with tales of knights, dragons and princesses. Don’t forget to dress them up in costume!

01827 709 618 | tamworthcastle.co.uk

The Big Bang Fair 2017 BodyHacking Gastronaut, Stefan Gates Do try this at home!

Festival of the Spoken Nerd Dangerous Equations Marty Jopson

Mission into Space!

Sirius Space Agency

The Super-Intelligent High-Tech Robot Show Science Museum

How to Rebuild the World after an Apocalypse Lewis Dartnell

Heavy Metal Marine Biology The Blowfish

Hack your Brain!

Ginny Smith

Power Up! Science Theatre

Science Magic…Magic Science Do Science

Cauldron Chemistry ThinkTank Careering into Science GSK & Glasgow Science Centre

It’s elementary!

How to make and break an element The University of Manchester

SeeWomen Siemens ft. Fran Scott

Fire & Ice Show Mad Science

thebigbangfair.co.uk 15–18 March. Family Day: Saturday 18 March, 09:00–16:30 facebook.com/thebigbang4u

twitter.com/bigbangfair

youtube.com/thebigbangfair

instagram.com/bigbangfair

Tweet us using #bigbangfair

Issue 38

5

Clubs and Classes

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Ed’s Reading Room 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.

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

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF

Here are some books to enjoy with the children this spring, as reviewed on www.EdontheWeb.com Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: The Spooky School

by Tracey Corderoy (Nosy Crow £5.99)

Shifty and Sam have a knack of solving mysteries.

Preparations are being made for a midnight feast at St Spectre’s School but first Shifty and Sam must track down a cheeky ghost. Age: 5-7 years

(Walker £6.99)

stagecoach.co.uk/edgbaston edgbaston@stagecoach.co.uk ™

01926 651159

Creative Courage For Life

®

Dizzyrs Dance Ages 3 - 18 years Tel: 07855 923371 Open: Saturdays 10am - 1pm Sutton Coldfield www.bigarenaperformingarts.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES DANCE & DRAMA CENTRAL STAGE SCHOOL Tap Street Jazz Musical Theatre Solihull: Adult & Children’s Classes Free places for nursery children Tel: Claire 07939 529 227 info@centralstageschool.co.uk

DUBARRIE SCHOOL OF DANCE Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 ½ + Branches in Yardley and Solihull Telephone: 0121 744 1422 www.dubarrieschoolofdance.com

Various ages welcome Based in Highgate, Birmingham.

0773 4651192 www.dizzydancers.org

DIRECTORY MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE

Issue 38

When the class in Room 11 discover their hamster has gone missing, chaos ensues. Did Patches escape or was he stolen? Age: 5-7 years

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS Prom King: The Fincredible Diary of Fin Spencer

by Ciaran Murtagh (Piccadilly Press £5.99)

How can Fin make sure he becomes the Prom King?

And how can he make Claudia his Prom Queen? Even with the help of his magic diary it could be tricky. Age: 7+

For more Clubs and Classes visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk MUSIC 1-to-1 drum tuition, City Centre location B I R M I N G H A M Rock School grades 1-8.

Ages 4 upwards.

Book online @ www.birminghamdrumschool.co.uk

Youth Theatre Group, Age 5+

Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA

Telephone: 0121 722 3761 www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com

Solihull Young Dancers Ballet & Tap Lessons Classes from age 2 ½ + Tel: Kate on 07722 732678

www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL 07807 352087 6

Who Stole the Hamster?

by N Griffin

Find out more today:

SWIMMING TUITION Swimming lessons

from 3.5 years +

Lessons held in Solihull area.

Learn the 4 strokes for all swimmers using fun themes!

Tel: 0121 405 0550 www.makeasplash.co.uk Promote your little one’s natural reflexes and teach them to swim.

Babies from 6 weeks and older can join the fun!

Tel: 0121 405 0440 www.waterhugs.co.uk

Get Crafty!

www.familiesonline.co.uk

EASTER ART SCHOOL at the Barber Institute

Funky Frames - Two-day workshop E

aster Art School – Barber Institute’s fantastic, fun and educational holiday art courses for children – returns in April inspired by the Barber’s latest modern art display.

Children first spend time in the gallery, and, using a viewfinder, will sketch Hannah Honeywill’s wacky sculpture Tumbleweed – which is itself inspired by the beautiful, intricately carved and decorated picture-frames that surround all the Barber’s paintings.

Then the children will go down to the Barber’s art room for some messy and creative fun – they’ll make their own sculpture with cardboard frames and modroc modelling material. The following day, they’ll be decorating and painting their sculpture ready to take home.

At the end of the session, everyone will be presented with the Arts Award Discover certificate – the first stage in the nationally recognised Arts Award scheme that goes all the way through to

Keeping Kids Creative

The acts of drawing, colouring, making and creating are fulfilling and mindful activities for our children. These activities naturally help enhance their intelligence as they will develop observation skills and expand their descriptive vocabulary. They will also improve their ability to work independently with confidence, and to plan, review and fine tune their work. These are just some of the huge Find us at www.artattheheartltd.co.uk benefits gained from after school Art Clubs run by Art at the Heart Ltd, Solihull. To find out more visit their website.

“At the end of a school day, I think it’s lovely for the children to relax and join in with a creative activity” Masey’s Mum “Art in the Heart club always makes me feel calm after a bad day” Hassan Artattheheartltd.co.uk 07772 319 303 info@artattheheartltd.co.uk

ART Club Art at the Heart Ltd

4-8 year olds: 11am-12.30pm 8-12 year olds: 1.30pm – 3pm

Tues 11 Weds 12 April

aged 18 years.

Places for the two-day sessions are £15 per child – and places must be booked in advance. www.barber.org.uk barber_FF_advert_solihull_families_SPRING17_PRESS.pdf Further details about Arts Award can be found at1 www.artsaward.org.uk

14/02/2017 16:30:03

TIC S T N A A F

A RTKSHOPS WOR

EASTER ART SCHOOL! FUNKY FRAMES

GET CREATIVE AND ACHIEVE A DISCOVER ARTS AWARD TUES 11 & WEDS 12 APR �4�8YRS AND 8�12YRS�

Learn from Leonardo, paint like Picasso... let your creative potential loose!

£15 FOR THE TWO SESSIONS PLEASE BOOK

Have fun painting, sculpting, drawing and exploring the world through art Build confidence, self-identity and develop communication skills

NEW! FOR PRE�SCHOOLERS!

LITTLE ARTISTS STORYTELLING +CRAFT 10 MARCH, £5 PLEASE BOOK

Run by experienced artist educators in Solihull

Tel: 07772 319303 info@artattheheartltd.co.uk

Families First at the Barber Institute

Issue 38

7

Education

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Healthier Living for Juice Optimum Learning PLUS W

®

+

e all know that the term time can be a challenging, busy time for many families, and unfortunately, it can also be a time when unhealthy habits creep into your routine.

It’s hard to keep your children active when your whole day is taken up with getting ready for school, after-school activities, homework, dinner and bedtime. When is the time for exercise supposed to happen?

Keeping your children active is absolutely crucial, especially because they’re expected to sit still for such long periods of time during the school day.

The good news is that taking action to help your kids remain active is much easier than you’d think.

Try these tips to help your children stay active and have fun as a family at the same time.

Set the example

Children learn by what we do, not by what we say to do. When you are consistently active, your children will have a positive view to fitness.

to be more active. They will also get the maximum benefits of physical fitness. After all, if we enjoy exercise, we do it more and feel great afterwards!

Be impulsive!

This could mean having a spontaneous dance together before you head out to the next thing. The key is taking note of these little snippets of free time and making use of them.

Keep it up We all need to do a minimum of 150 minutes’ physical activity a week to stay healthy. Building a 20 minute walk into your daily routine, on the way to school for example, is a great way to start.

Reminding kids of the joy of being physically active can be much easier and simpler than you’d think.

JUICE PLUS+ supports healthier living.

By Lesha Woodstock, Juice Plus For more information please see my website: Lwoodstock.juiceplus.com

Make it fun

Incorporating competition, free play with a positive and lighthearted spirit, to specific activities your children enjoy will help them Twitter: @WaterInfusedWithLove Instagram: @WaterInfusedWithLove

Prepare your child for the 11 plus Moving from primary to secondary education can be an enormous jump for some children, and the 11 plus can be a particularly challenging process to get there.

With unique teaching methods and targeted testing, KSOL are pioneers in educating children at Key Stage 2 in preparation for the 11 plus. As CEM 11+ specialists, all of KSOL’s mock exams and online programmes include Verbal and Non Verbal Reasoning; skills that are essential for a well rounded education.

KSOL’s award-winning online courses enable children to complete a series of daily online tests that are designed to increase knowledge and skills whilst maintaining high levels of concentration. By highlighting weaker areas and addressing them with personalised testing, many KSOL students have successfully gained grammar or independent school places: “My son and daughter attended KSOL which was fantastic in every way.

My son is in Year 8 at K.E.S and my daughter has also just been offered a grammar school place. They were supplied with good teachers who inspired and motivated them to succeed in the eleven plus.”

Call today 0121 733 6558 or visit ksol.co.uk

8

Issue 38

Education

www.familiesonline.co.uk

How to teach your kids their times tables‌easily

H

ands up who got their mobile phone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with maths and, in particular, times tables, is vital for children if they are to succeed at school.

Helping your little ones at home and doing some extra work to ensure they feel confident in their learning can almost be as important as what they do in the classroom. It can, however, be tricky to navigate the teaching journey when you’re not actually a teacher.

What should they know?

Presently, children are required to know their tables up to 12x12 by the age of nine.

How can you help them know it?

Buy posters of times tables or make your own; you can then stick them up throughout the house – perhaps on the wall opposite the loo, or under a magnet on the fridge.

Start with the twos

Adding two to a previous number is something most children will find achievable in primary school and this sets up a pattern for learning about the other times tables.

Apply it to real life

If times tables is something your children can apply to daily life, they will show

much more of an interest. Instead of ‘testing’ what they know. Be playful about it when you’re out and about together.

Find out what works best for your child

Like anything with children, once you discover what works best for them – stick to it. If your child learns best using visual aids then go down that route. If, listening and chanting helps them learn, do that instead.

Do you need to brush up your own Maths skills?

Ordering yourself something like Maths for Mums and Dads could help if you are feeling outside of your comfort zone when you’re topping up the teaching at home. Discovering new ways of learning can make it fun for both of you.

Build their confidence

Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as possible.

Encourage your children and praise them for trying when they do. Show them how far they have come since last week or last month and this should spur them on to keep improving.

The first steps of your daughter’s adventure

I

/\ W\RS^S\RS\b aQV]]Z T]` UW`Za

n Westbourne, our Pre-Preparatory School, Nursery, Kindergarten and Reception classes form the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

Our safe and nurturing environment provides all the care and encouragement your daughter needs to develop her confidence, curiosity and self-awareness. Girls develop their individual strengths through a good balance of learning through play and subject work including art, music, science, ICT, PE and ballet. • Small class sizes and individual attention • Excellent purpose-built building with specialist play areas and ICT opportunities

<c`aS`g 9W\RS`UO`bS\ @SQS^bW]\

â&#x20AC;˘ Before and After-school care available

# GSO`a

PRE-PREP OPEN HOUSE Thursday 2 March 2017 9:30am - 11:45am PRE-PREP AND PREP OPEN DAY Tuesday 2 May 2017 9:30am - 2:00pm 0121 454 5831 admissions@edgbastonhigh.co.uk www.edgbastonhigh.co.uk

â&#x20AC;˘ Holiday Club outside term time Girls can join us in Nursery at 2½, then progress onto Kindergarten and Reception before moving into Year 1 in the Preparatory School. Parents considering Reception, in particular, are advised to make an early registration.

See for yourself what makes an EHS education so special - visit at one of our open days.

0121 454 5831 admissions@edgbastonhigh.co.uk

Issue 38

9â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Parenting

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Tips & advice on potty training toddlers Potty training your toddler can be tricky, especially if they seem a little nonresponsive to begin with…

Knowing when to start 2008|2009

29008|2009 002|8002

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 age 2, 3 & 4 years

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’s very little point in trying to potty train your child before they are physically and emotionally ready, which is usually at around two years of age – although for some children it may take longer.

Look out for signs that your child is becoming aware of doing a ‘wee’ or ‘poo’. They may tell you that they are wet or dirty, or that they are wetting their nappy.

Once you have decided to start you need to be prepared to persevere.

How to begin

Explain in simple words what you want your child to do. Tell them that it’s what you and ‘big’ children do and that they’ll be able to wear ‘big pants’ once their out of nappies.

Select certain times of day to sit them on the potty – perhaps after meals – but if you can, try to choose times when your child usually wets or dirties themselves.

Your child may get the hang of potty training very quickly, or they may treat it with complete disinterest.

If they refuse to sit on the potty for more than a few minutes, don’t force it. You don’t want to turn this into a battle of wills!

Try sitting with your little one and reading a story or just talking.

When your child achieves something, praise them or reward them with a small treat.

Never show your displeasure or punish your child for not performing– this will only cause tension between you both.

The next steps

While your child is learning to become clean and dry, putting them in training pants rather than nappies will make life easier for you both until they are ready to go into ordinary pants.

There may be some accidents at times, but don’t panic.

Staying dry at night

It’s unlikely that your toddler will become dry at night at the same time as they are dry during the day. Few children achieve this and many are well into their third year before they are completely dry during the night.

Before you know it you’ll have a series of dry nappies during the night and your nappy days will be well and truly over! www.emmasdiary.co.uk Written by Alison Mackonochie

Alison is the author of numerous books on pregnancy and early year’s childcare.

10

Issue 38

Outdoor Fun

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Kids – get composting!

M

eet ‘Green Fingered George’, a remarkable 11 year old boy who was crowned RHS Young School Gardener of the Year in 2014. He has regularly been on television to inspire children to share his love of gardening.

George says:

“I love composting - it’s great for the soil, it’s free, and is a way of tidying up the garden #YAY! Composting increases the biodiversity of a growing area by improving the habitat for colonies of mini beasts. And it produces bigger, tastier healthier veg!

“Now spring is here children can create a simple traditional compost. Get them to mix green garden waste, fruit/vegetable peelings, with plain shredded paper or cardboard (for their carbon properties) in similar quantities to a large container.

“A good compost heap will have lots of insects running around in it, turning the

waste into rich new soil. Kids will enjoy keeping their mini-beasts happy by ensuring the compost does not get too wet (get them to cover the heap with a piece of old carpet or compost bag if it rains a lot) and not too dry (your kids can give it a big drink with a bucket of water).

“Encourage your children to keep their heap happy, turn it all over a bit now and then with a garden fork, and it will reward you with great new crumbly soil within 3 – 9 months”.

Happy composting! greenfingeredgeorge.wordpress.com @GreenFGeorge

Easter Holidays at Super Camps Come down to Super Camps for the best in holiday activities for children. Our daily and weekly activity camps allow children to get the most out of their holiday time. The programme is jam-packed with fun activities that will keep your children entertained for hours, and our ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted ratings give you the peace of mind that your children are in the best possible care.

Early Years crews for 4 to 5 year olds ensure learning and development within a fun environment. The 6 to 9 year old crews can explore new activities and take on new challenges such as The Avengers School of Archery, Super Camps Driving School and Motor Mania. Our 10 to 12 year olds can come together in their very own common room as well as spending more time tackling activities in depth.

Prices start from £38 per day supercamps.co.uk 01235 467300

George Hassall, ‘Green Fingered George’ RHS Young Ambassador

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

Booorkcalla08t45g83o8a16p12e.cquoote.uFAMkCA7 †

*Offer valid until 31st December 2017, excludes Saturdays, Corporate Events and purchase of gift vouchers.

Discount code must be entered at time of booking. Only valid at Cannock Forest. †Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge - please see our website.

10

% O F F PER PERSON

*

Issue 38

11

Easter Holidays

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Action-packed childcare this

Ofsted

registered

Easter Holiday

Monday 10th - Friday 21st April Open from 8am - 6pm

Action-packed, Ofsted registered childcare throughout the school holidays Aspire Active Camps provide sports and activity childcare during every school holiday throughout the year for children aged 4-14 years.

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

To provide the greatest affordability, we provide fantastic ‘early bird’ offers for those booking in advance. We also offer discounts and a loyalty scheme to our valued customers. As we are Ofsted registered you are also able to pay via childcare vouchers. www.aspire-sports.co.uk

Choice of venues

New Standard Hours

Solihull Tudor Grange Academy

8am - 4pm

Sutton Coldfield Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School

Walsall

Queen Mary’s Grammar School

We accept childcare vouchers

Book before 24th March and take advantage of our

Early bird offers!

Lots of activities and sports to choose from

*Terms and conditions apply

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

SPRING SPECTACULAR 8th - 23rd April 2017

18699A 2/17

ADVENTURE. ANIMALS. ACTION.

A choc-o-bloc array of Spring Newborns Magic and Puppet Shows Easter Egg Hunts Laser Combat (8yrs+) WůƵƐ͘​͘​͘ Ăůů ƚŚĞ ƵƐƵĂů ,ĂƩŽŶ ĨĂǀŽƵƌŝƚĞ ĂĐƟǀŝƟĞƐ ALL DAY INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT

ONLINE DISCOUNTS for advance booking at hattonworld.com

www.hattonworld.com 12

Issue 38

dĞƌŵƐ ĂŶĚ ŽŶĚŝƟŽŶƐ ĂƉƉůLJ Ͳ ƐĞĞ ǁĞďƐŝƚĞ ĨŽƌ ĚĞƚĂŝůƐ

Like us on

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Shows and Concerts Barclaycard Arena

King Edwards Rd, Birmingham, B1 2AA barclaycardarena.co.uk 0844 33 88 222

The Core Theatre

mac birmingham

Singin’ in the Rain

David Walliams’ The First Hippo on the Moon

Solihull Theatre Square, Touchwood, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RG, thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk 0121 704 6962 Dates: 4 – 8 April Times: 2.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: £15 (£13) This fun, family show features all the famous classics, including ‘Good Morning’, ‘Make ‘em Laugh’ and ‘Singin’ In The Rain’.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Diversity: Genesis

Date: 22 Apr Times: 1.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: £28.83+ The sensational Diversity is back in Birmingham. The new tour Genesis is the concluding part of their super hero fantasy epic and follows ‘Limitless: The Reboot’.

Birmingham Repertory Theatre Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EP, birmingham-rep.co.uk 0121 236 4455

Winnie And Wilbur

Dates: 31 March - 22 April Times: 11am; 2pm; 6pm; 7pm Tickets: £10+ Age: 3+ Winnie the witch loves Wilbur, her big black cat. Wilbur also loves Winnie.

Winnie and Wilbur enjoy all kinds of capers together with a big dollop of magic always included in this sparkling new adventure.

Theatre & Concerts

Date: Thurs 13 April Times: 2pm; 4pm Tickets: £10 Age: 3+ This timeless classic, and much-loved book, has made its way off the page and onto the stage. Beautifully recreated for young children and their families.

Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH, macbirmingham.co.uk 0121 446 3232

Date: Tue 18 Apr Times: 1.30pm; 4pm Tickets: £10 (£8) Age: 3+ From bestselling children’s author David Walliams comes an explosively funny space adventure.

3 ...2 ...1 ...BLAST OFF!

Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA thsh.co.uk 0121 780 3333

FREE!

MUSICAL PICNIC - MARCH

The Sooty Show

Date: Sat 15 April Times: 11am; 2.30pm Tickets: £12 Age: 3+ Giggles, naughtiness and antics aplenty for Sooty fans of all ages.

Dick & Dom Live

Date: Sat 22 April Times: 11am; 2pm Tickets: £12 (£10) Age: 8+ This performance promises wacky challenges and audience involvement that will guarantee to have you in stitches.

Don’t miss out on the mayhem!

The Core Theatre: Win a family* ticket to see Dick & Dom Live in da Theatre!

Venue: Symphony Hall Café Bar Date: Sat 18 March Time: 10.30am Age: 0 – 7 years Come and see prolific clarinettist, composer and educator Arun Ghosh and his band. They’ll bring original IndoJazz music of South Asian origin with a contemporary jazz attitude, rocking urban beats and the passion of punk!

FREE!

MUSICAL PICNIC - MIDWEEK EXPLORER MARCH

Venue: Symphony Hall Café Bar Date: Weds 22 March Time: 10.30am Age: 0 – 5 years Take time out in a relaxing and friendly space with your little ones. Explore music, dance and story- telling whilst making

new friends. The music practitioners will help facilitate early years learning in a supportive and fun environment.

Town Hall, Birmingham

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

Naomi’s Wild & Scary

Date: Saturday 8 April Time: 11am Tickets: £20.50 Children’s TV presenter Naomi Wilkinson’s show will be packed full of fun and surprises. She wll be joined on stage by ‘Animal Mark’, and some of his scariest creatures. A great time for the whole family guaranteed.

The Scarecrow’s Wedding

Dates: Fri 14 - Sat 15 April Times: 11am & 1pm Tickets: £12.50 Age: 3+ Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay are excellent scarecrows. Harry loves Betty, and Betty loves Harry - so they decide to get married.

This truly heart-warming adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s bestselling book promises wit, drama, and wedding bells!

MNOZIL BRASS Family Show

Date: Sat 6 May Time: 2.30pm Tickets: £18 The only way to describe Mnozil Brass is to label them as a cross between Mr Bean and the Monty Python of the brass world.

Join them for a special one hour family concert at Town Hall guaranteed to leave both you and your little ones enthralled. ***ALWAYS check the venue’s website in case of changes to schedule. Thank you.

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Featuring 4 beautiful tales

Saturday 22nd April, 11am & 2pm The BAFTA winning stars of ‘Diddy TV’, ‘The Legend Of Dick & Dom’ and ‘Dick & Dom In Da Bungalow’ will be live on stage bringing fun and anarchy! Warning … this may get messy! For 8+ years

Thurs 13 Apr, 2pm & 4pm Tickets £10

For the chance to WIN a set of family* tickets (*2 adults, 2 children) for the 11am show answer the following question:

Sat 15 Apr, 11am & 2.30pm Tickets £12

Don’t Dribble on The Dragon A feelgood show about growing up

One of Dick and Dom’s most famous TV programmes is called: (a) Dick and Dom in Da Garden (b) Dick and Dom in Da Bungalow, or (c) Dick and Dom at Da Palace Enter by email by Monday 10th April. Put ‘Dick and Dom Live’ in the subject line of your message, and send your answer, your name, postal address and best contact number to editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk

TICKETS: £12 (£10) 0121 704 6962, thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

*Competition T&Cs on page 15

Sat 22 April, 11am & 2pm Tickets £12 (£10 child)

Sat 27 May, 2.30pm Tickets £9.50

See the website for a full list of shows and events.

www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk Box Office: 0121 704 6962 (10.30am - 4pm) Issue 38

13

What’s On OUT & ABOUT

Like us on

FACEBOOK Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Taster Days. You can choose from skiing, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, jungle challenge, archery, zip wire and fan descender. Free tobogganing for under 12s with a paying adult.

Aston Hall

Trinity Road, Aston, Birmingham, B6 6JD, birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston 0121 348 8038

Tall Tales – Family Story Tour and Craft

Dates: Cinderella tour – 12.4.17; Sleeping Beauty tour – 19.4.17 Times: 11am & 1pm Admission: £8; £6; £3 Age: 3 – 8 years Each storytelling experience will last approximately 45minutes, with time for making craft beforehand. A magical way to explore Aston Hall.

Booking essential.

Ackers Adventure

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

Barber Institute of Fine Arts

barber.org.uk 0121 414 2261 education@barber.org.uk

Little Artists

Date: Fri 10 March Time: 10.30am – 12pm Cost: £5 per child Age: 3 – 4 years Bring your pre-schooler on a voyage of artistic discovery around the Barber with Anna the Art Explorer!

Watch as their imaginations run wild!

Booking essential.

Easter Art School

Date: Tues 11 & Weds 12 April Time for 4 to 8 years: 11am – 12.30pm Time for 8 – 12 years: 1.30 – 3pm Cost: £15 per child for the two days - Find out about famous artists - Create your own art - Share your experiences with others - Gain a certificate at the end - Achieve a Discover Arts Award!

University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TS

Explore Birmingham from the Water – Canoe Tour

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Chamberlain Sq., Birmingham, B3 3DH, 0121 348 8000 birminghammuseums.org.uk/bmag

Weekend Family Arts

Days: Every Sat & Sun until 26th March Time: 11am – 1pm Admission: £2 per child Get creative, have fun and make something new at Family Arts sessions.

Black Country Living Museum

Tipton Road,Dudley, DY1 4SQ bclm.co.uk 0121 557 9643 Days: Weds – Sun every week.

Time: 10am-4pm Admission: Adults £15.95; Children from £7.45; free for under 5’s There’s always plenty to do at BCLM! Meet the costumed characters, visit the shops and houses, see live demonstrations, go to the fun fair, and have some fish and chips – 1930s style!

Date: Fri 14 April Time: 9am – 4pm Cost: Adult £20; Family (2 adults & 3 children) £40; Under 8s FREE Age: 5+ Pre-booking essential.

A scenic, informative and fun tour by canoe around the canals of Birmingham.

Thrillseeker Days

Date: 29 April ; 1 July; 16 Sept Time: 10.30am – 3.30pm Cost: £22.00 per person Age: 5+ Come and try a range of different activities on one of Acker’s Thrillseeker

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3TR birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk 0121 454 1860

NAOMI’S WILD & SCARY SATURDAY 8 APRIL 11AM TOWN HALL

Bournville Bookfest 2017

Easter Fun

bournvillebookfest.com Dates: Friday 17 March to Sunday March 26 Back, bigger than ever - inspire your children with a love of reading at BookFest 2017.

100 brilliant events over 10 days, at schools, libraries and venues across South Birmingham.

Birmingham Contemporary Music Group

Hatton Adventure World

Date: Mon 10 - 17 April Time: from 11am – 3pm Admission: Adult £7.50; Concessions £5.25; under 5’s go FREE There will be plenty of Arts and Crafts, Bug Hunting and Spring activities for the little ones!

Please note there will be a small charge for some activities.

THE SCARECROW’S WEDDING FRI 14 APR 1PM SAT 15 APR 11AM & 1PM TOWN HALL MNOZIL BRASS FAMILY SHOW SATURDAY 6 MAY 2:30PM TOWN HALL THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW SAT 27 MAY 12:30PM & 2:30PM TOWN HALL #PY PGåDF 0121 780 3333 www.thsh.co.uk Funded by

14

Issue 38

Town Hall renovation also funded by

CBSO Centre, Berkley Street, Birmingham, B1 2LF bcmg.org.uk/whats-on 0121 616 2616 info@bcmg.org.uk

FREE!

Music Maze (8-11 years), and ZigZag Ensemble (12–16 years)

Date: Sunday 23 April Time: 10am – 2.30pm Children of all musical abilities, get the priceless experience of composing original pieces of music, alongside the world class musicians of Birmingham Contemporary Music Group.

Pre-booking essential.

Dark Lane, Hatton, Warwick CV35 8XA Book online for DISCOUNTS hattonworld.com 01926 843411

Spring Spectacular

Dates: 8 – 23 April Time: 10am – 5.30pm Admission: £15.95 per person Go along to enjoy Spectacular Spring Fun fun at Hatton.

Activities include: Tractor Safari; Magic Show; Falconry Display; Laser Combat (age 8+); Egg Hunt; Puppet Show; Hatton’s Grand National Sheep Racing, and; Chirpy Chicks and Beautiful Bunnies. ***ALWAYS check the venue’s website in case of changes to schedule.

Thank you.

What’s On

Always check the organiser’s website in case of changes to schedule FREE!

The Big Bang Young Scientists & Engineers Fair

thebigbangfair.co.uk Dates: 15 - 18 March Times: Weds-Fri 9.30am-4.00pm; Sat 9 – 4.30pm Become a rocket scientist, create your own lie detector, meet a range of unusual animals or experience bouncing across the surface of Mars are just some of the exciting activities taking place.

Why not enter the prestigious Big Bang Competition? Amazing prizes on offer.

Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea and Tour

Date: Sunday 26 March Time: 12pm or 2pm Admission: £20 per person Treat your wonderful mum to afternoon tea in the beautiful surroundings of Soho House.

You will enjoy a tour of the historic house, followed by scrummy sandwiches, cakes, scones, tea and coffee

Tamworth Castle

Holloway, Ladybank, Tamworth B79 7NA tamworthcastle.co.uk 01827 709626

Egg Hunt

Dates: 8 - 21 April Time: 11.30am - 4.00pm Admission: Adult £7.50; Child 5+ £5.00; Child 2-4 years £3.00; Child under 2 years free.

Come and help Ruby the Castle Dragon find the eggs she hid from the dragon hunter. Prizes awarded!

Hoar Park, Shopping and Craft Village

B4114 Nr Ansley, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV10 0QU hoar-park.co.uk 024 7639 4433

St. George’s Day

Date: Sat 22 April Time: 11.30am - 4.00pm Admission: Adult £7.50; Child 5+ £5.00;

Craft Fair

Date: Sun 16 April Time: 10am – 5pm Come along to Hoar Park’s Craft Fair and see their interiors, fashion section and enjoy their food. There’s fun for the little ones too in the Children’s Farm and Pets Corner.

Hoar Park is open Tues-Sun every week.

Ikon Gallery

1 Oozells Square, Brindleyplace, Birmingham, B1 2HS ikon-gallery.org 0121 248 0708

Family Saturday

Child 2-4 years £3.00; Child under 2 years free.

Celebrate the patron saint of England in style with archery, Medieval jousts, living history, children’s Medieval activities, street entertainers and much more. **ALWAYS check the venue’s website in case of changes to schedule. Thank you.

0121 772 5111 www.ackers-adventure.co.uk bookings@ackers-adventure.co.uk Pre booking essential

MCM Birmingham Comic Con

Dates: 18 - 19 March Times: 9am – 5pm Admission: £11+ If films, comics and sci-fi are your thing, don’t miss out on MCM Birmingham Comic Con. Guests at recent shows include cast from Harry Potter, Doctor Who and Star Wars.

Dates: the first Saturday of every month (*check website before attending) Time: 1pm – 4pm Admission: Suggested donation £2 Come along with your family, all ages welcome. Explore the latest Ikon Gallery art exhibition. Participate in activities which will challenge, intrigue and delight.

Easter School Holiday Programme

~

Birmingham Canoe Tour Friday 14th April

~ ~

Easter Canoe Tasters ThrillSeeker Taster Day Saturday 29th April One Day, One Price, 8 Activities to try!

~

NEC, Birmingham

Plus Tobogganing anytime we are open!

North Avenue, Marston Green, Birmingham, B40 1NT 0844 338 8000

The Baby Show

thebabyshow.co.uk/birmingham Dates: 19-21 May Times: 9am – 5pm Quote FAMILIES for 40% discount!Everything you need for bump, baby and you under one roof. Leading brands, unbeatable savings and expert advice.

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

Soho House

Food and Drink

Soho Avenue, Birmingham, B18 5LB birminghammuseums.org.uk/soho 0121 348 8150 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.

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.

Interiors

Interests

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

Licensed Restaurant, Chocolate Shop, Tea Rooms

Craft Fair

16th Sunday l Apri

Fashion

Jewellery, Handbags, Wedding, Cocktail and Daywear, corsetry, Theatre Costume, Leather Bags, Wallets, Belts.

Fun

The Children’s Farm & Parties, Pets Corner.

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 Issue 38

15

RUSH MULTI

ACTIVITY CAMP ACTIVITIES INCLUDE Tumble coaching

Rock wall

Freestyle coaching

Open jumping

Trampoline coaching

and much much more...

Extreme Dodgeball Camps run between 3rd - 23rd April (*excluding 14th and 17th April) Ages 5 - 16 yrs Book by 6th March and make the most of our (DUO\ %LUG R΍HUV (DUO\ 'URS 2΍ /DWH 3LFN 8S 2SWLRQV $YDLODEOH A special (DVWHU (JJ KXQW during all toddler sessions

For PRUH LQIR please email: holidaycamps-birmingham@rushuk.com

rushuktrampolinepark RushUKTrampolinePark

RushUK_BMG rushbirmingham

RUSHUK.COM

03454 500 268

Rush Uk - Unit 6 Avery Dell Kings Norton - Birmingham - B30 3DZ