Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton coldfield July Aug 2013 by Families Magazine

FRE

JULY-AUGUST 2013 ISSUE 16

Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Summer camps Fifty things to do before you’re 11¾ Raising girls From Birmingham to Billund

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

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Quality Childcare you can trust at Busy Bees

Busy Bees are committed to ensuring that our nurseries deliver the highest possible standards of quality childcare and learning experiences and that our nurseries have the most committed and enthusiastic staff teams

Practical opening hours, Monday to Friday Bright, welcoming play areas and large outdoor gardens Secure access systems Fresh, nutritious meals and snacks provided everyday Easy settling in sessions Government funded places available

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Issue 16

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Contents

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In this Issue...

ello and welcome to the summer issue of Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield.

What are you planning this summer holiday? Whether you are a working mum looking for camps with wrap-around childcare, or a child who loves sport, drama, pop music, art, swimming, or you would like to learn aerial circus skills, take a look at our summer camps feature pages 9-11. Check out our feature on 50 things to do before the age of 11 ¾ - and see how many things you have done already. Try to tick off a few more from the list over the school holidays. Are you stay-cationing like 2 in 3 families this summer? Or are you planning a holiday abroad? We tell you about Pembrokeshire – a brilliant beach holiday destination, and we also tell you about bmi regional’s new Birmingham to Billund flight where you can visit the home of Legoland, and Lalandia, Scandinavia’s largest Aquadome. If you are out and about this summer – we have discounts for family readers on tickets to In the Night Garden Live at Cannon Hill Park (page 31), a free child ticket for visiting Avoncroft Museum (see voucher on page 7) and a free child ticket to Umberslade Farm Park (see page 5). Read about our short story competition for children aged 11 and under on page 18. We will enjoy reading your entries. Happy holidays!

Wendy Flynn , Editor

Families Birmingham, Solihull & Sutton Coldfield Front page picture by photo artist Abby Wilkes. Abby won the West Midlands Master Photographer Award for her work with children three years in a row. She specialises in photographing children and families, creating art from life’s special moments. Contact Abby for more information: 07966 867306. www.abbywilkes.com

Next Issue:

Advertisers: book now for our September/ October back to school issue. Call 0758 352 6056 or e-mail editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk before Friday, August 2. Design: www.MattWaltonDesign.co.uk Print: Warners Midlands PLC, Manor Lane, Bourne, Lincs. PE10 9PH Copyright Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, July 2013 We take care preparing this magazine but the publisher and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents nor its consequence.

4 8 9 12 13 14

News

Clubs and classes Summer camps Play safe with computers A woman on a mission Fifty things to do before the age of 11 ¾

16 Pembrokeshire beach holidays

18 20 22 23 24 26

4 11

Summer story challenge Raising girls All work no play Parties

From Birmingham to Billund Botanical Gardens photo-shoot

28 What’s On

11 + Tuition

Intensive courses for all children in Year 5 in preparation for: King Edward Grammar Schools, Queen Mary’s Grammar School Queen Mary’s High School Sutton Cold�ield Grammar School All other Selective School examinations Tel: 0121 661 6330 www.advantage11plus.com Issue 16

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Call a friend!

voncroft Museum is a showcase for 27 different buildings including a Tudor merchant’s house, a toll house, a granary, windmill, an Andersen shelter, a post war pre-fab and a mission church - all rescued from ruin and painstakingly reconstructed on site. There is even a telephone exchange and a collection of old telephone kiosks where children can call their friends (many of us ancient parents will remember using these!) The museum at Stoke Heath in Bromsgrove is set in 19 acres of parkland with a wildflower meadow, formal gardens and pond, and it can be a wonderful family day out exploring the grounds and buildings.

Coming up in July (13 and 14) you can visit on a Gruesome History weekend where your children can learn some horribly, gorey facts from the past like the dreadful diseases, the pongy people and the wicked weaponry. And the Museum runs a summer holiday family activity programme every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; den building (July 30-Aug 1), dragon slaying – learn how, (Aug 6-8); Gnome Week discovering the secret world of Avoncroft Gnomes (Aug 13-15) Pirate Adventure Days – pirate training camp, (Aug 20-22) Mud, Sticks and Bricks – grubby fun (Aug 27-29). A family ticket is £19.80 and the museum is open daily from 10.30am-5pm For free child place – see coupon on page 7 For more information: www.avoncroft.org.uk

Whizz Kids Holiday Fun Ackers Adventure Whizz Kids activity sessions are just right for adventure-loving 8-16 year olds who relish the chance to have a go at new experiences, and it’s also ideal for giving older children (12 plus) their first taste of independence. The Whizz Kids sessions run every weekday in the school summer holidays from July 29-Aug 23, and are designed to give children the chance to try skiing, archery, canoeing, kayaking, a jungle challenge and bushcraft. It keeps them entertained, helps them to learn new skills and gives them the opportunity to make new friends.

Parents need to be on site for children aged 8-11 – although they can relax while their offspring are kept busy - and young people aged 12 and over can be left on site with the signed consent of a parent. All the activities are led by qualified instructors and all equipment is provided. Many children who come to Whizz Kids end up taking up one of the activities as a hobby because they find they love it. The sessions need to be pre-booked but you can book mornings, afternoons or full days (10am-4pm). Tel: 0121 772 5111 www.ackers-adventure.co.uk

The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party The Herbert Art Gallery in Coventry has a series of free Alice in Wonderland inspired family activities this summer, coinciding with its Looking in Wonderland exhibition. The exhibition features Sir John Tenniel’s illustrations for Lewis Carroll’s books, which are reputed to be the world’s best-known children’s images.

activities for children and the space will encourage imaginative play in a Wonderland theme. Follow the White Rabbit’s paw prints around the Gallery (see the White Rabbit, Mad Hatter, the March Hare, the Queen of Hearts, Tweedledum and Tweedledee, and the Cheshire Cat along the way) and the paw prints will lead you to - Through the Rabbit Hole.

Alongside the exhibition, the gallery has created a family play space - Through the Rabbit Hole, inspired by the Wonderland stories. There will be

To book call 024 7683 2386 www.theherbert.org

On August 30, families are invited to bring a picnic and join the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.

By steam train to Stratford Catch the Shakespeare Express to Stratford this summer. The oldfashioned steam train is back for the summer, running every Sunday between July 7 and September 8. It is always a popular outing for families. You can have a leisurely train ride, lunch in Stratford, followed by shopping or sight-seeing, and amble back to the station for the return journey. Catch the train from Snow Hill, Moor Street, Tyseley or Henley in Arden. Adults £20 and children £12.50 pre-booked. Call 0121 708 4960.

4 Issue 16

News

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Wanted – children aged 7-9 to volunteer for research study

ould your child volunteer to take part in a Birmingham University research study which is looking at the link between stress and eating patterns?

There have been many studies looking at the impact of stress on adult eating behaviour with some of us eating comfort food, others losing all appetite for food, and some eating just the same as always. But there has been little research done on children. Carmel Bennett, a researcher at Birmingham University’s School of Psychology, is now inviting 30 children aged 7-9 (accompanied by their parents) to come along to the university for two sessions to help out with her doctoral research. The research is simple - involving filling in questionnaires, playing some computer games and completing some tasks, none of which are more taxing than a child would encounter in an age-appropriate school test. The research will examine whether different personality traits have a bearing on stress-related eating patterns, comparing behaviours of children who are more

spontaneous and impulsive characters to those who are more reserved and selfcontrolled. Carmel explains that the research is carried out in a way that will not faze children. “It’s really good fun. We run the sessions in a big room here at the university which we call our ‘Baby Lab’. The child taking part can opt to wear a small heart monitor so we can double check how they are feeling during the session. Once a child feels at ease, parents usually leave the room and view everything that is taking place through a two-way mirror.“ Ideally, Carmel wants to hear from interested parents and children in July as she aims to have the research completed by the end of September. She understands that all parents have busy schedules so can organise the sessions to suit you and it can be arranged after school, during a weekend or in the school summer holidays. All parents who take part in the research will get generalised feedback on the study’s findings. If you would like to learn more about the study or think your child would be happy to take part call Carmel on mobile: 075 705 80289 or e-mail her at: cxb791@bham.ac.uk

GO WILD!

SUMMER ACAD EMY!

Explore the Zoo, go behind the scenes & learn more about the animals here at Dudley Zoological Gardens.

Go Wild Adventurers! 12-16th and 19th-23rd August (8-11 yrs)

Go Wild Rangers!

Summer Fun for all the family

Umberslade f a r m pa r k

Feed baby lambs and calves - Pony and tracter rides Cuddle up with newborn bunnies - Farmhouse café Play Barn - and lots more down on our farm

One free child ticket on presentation of this advert

5-9th August (11-14 yrs)

TO BOOK PLEASE CALL:

0844 474 2272 www.dudleyzoo.org.uk

A week of fun activities only £120 per child Follow us on

get closer to the world’s rarest animals

www.umberslade.com Butts Lane, Tanworth in Arden, Solihull, West Midlands, B94 5AE Terms & Conditions: one free child ticket per full paying adult. Valid until 1st September 2013

Issue 16

News

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Sharing Stories with Julia Donaldson

Squash and A Squeeze, Room on the Broom, The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo’s Child, The Snail and the Whale ….the chances are you and your children are familiar with at least one of these books. They were all written by outgoing Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson (and beautifully illustrated by Axel Scheffler). During the school summer holidays, Julia’s work is celebrated in an exhibition at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery which brings her captivating stories to life. It is a must-do outing for all children who are fans of her book.

Seven Stories, National Centre for books 2012

Several of Julia’s children’s books have been adapted for stage, and this summer you can also catch up with A Room on the Broom at the Town Hall, Birmingham, between Aug 6-11, and What the Ladybird Heard between Dec 20 and Jan 10.

You can follow in Toddle Waddle’s footsteps, climb into the cave with Cave Baby and meet The Gruffalo. Sing along to her songs on Julia’s Jukebox or perform a play on the stage.

Beep Beep! Winston pulls into Thomas Land As Thomas Land™ commemorates its fifth anniversary at Drayton Manor, a brand new ride is set to arrive in July to mark the occasion. Winston’s Whistle Stop Tour, features the willing, loyal and extremely helpful Winston, who will be on hand to assist The Fat Controller with his terrible driving skills. Winston is The Fat Controller’s track inspection vehicle - a car on rails - who makes sure everything is safe on the Island of Sodor. The

£750,000 ride will take visitors around a themed track, with each of the seven inspection vehicles capable of seating four people. Passengers will then be taken on a guided monorail tour above and around Thomas Land. Winston will be joining the 21 other rides and attractions based on the ever-popular Thomas & Friends series. To learn more about the world of Thomas the Tank Engine™ & his friends, visit www.thomasandfriends.com

Is your child a spender or a saver? Is your child a saver or a spender? Whichever it is, according to the Money Advice Service, their spending habits by the time they are 7 could shape their attitude to money for life.

means to earn money and what income is, and they are capable of planning ahead and understanding that some choices are irreversible.

The Money Advice Service says parents should not underestimate the power they have in shaping children’s money management skills because they reckon parents’ good (and bad) spending habits can be passed on from one generation to the next.

However it takes until children are aged eight and over to distinguish between ‘luxuries’ and ‘necessities’.

It suggests a winning combination of good habits at home combined with playful teaching could set your children up for life.

Behaviour experts at Cambridge University have found that by the age of 7 most children can recognise the value of money and understand that it can be exchanged for goods. They also understand what it Issue 16

So, the next time you say a resounding ‘No’ to whatever must-have item your child insists they need, console yourself that you are helping them to grasp the difference between luxury and necessity. Instead of succumbing to pester power and forking out for an expensive treat, giving them regular pocket money and encouraging them to save for longed-for items is likely to be much more valuable to them in the long run.

News

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Flying through the summer

he sky is the limit for children this summer as MAC’s open air theatre shares a theme of flight …

and puppets magically transforming into aerialists …

There is nothing so magical in theatre for little ones than when they see characters flying through the air – and that is just what they will see with Scarabeus Aerial Theatre show - La Tempesta. When a family’s house is swept away by a flood, they collect their salvaged possessions and all fly off towards a new beginning. You will see a bed suspended above the audience’s head, a gothic house full of puppets,

Later in the season Handmade Theatre invite children to take part in an interactive performance, The Flying Machine, as they set off on a journey through the skies exploring new worlds and characters. The young audience becomes the crew, flapping the wings, working the controls and steering the captain’s wheel! The children explore fascinating new destinations as their imaginations take flight. For more information see www.macarts.co.uk

RoguePlay’s Circus skills workshop Ever wanted to copy those performers who fly through the air in theatre? Well now you can by signing up for a Circus Skills workshop for beginners at Minerva Works in Digbeth. Young people aged 8-15 will learn how to use aerial silks and a static trapeze at this weeklong summer school led by Rogue Play’s artistic director Kim Charnock. Kim is used to working with young people as she organises regular workshops for schools as well as running weekly circus skills classes. She says: “The workshops can be a great confidence builder. You really don’t need to be acrobatic

or a gymnast to get the hang of this, because it is all about technique to start with. The fitness and flexibility come with training.” Children are often fearless but RoguePlay has also worked with children who are nervous of heights. The aerial silks can be arranged at different height levels, and young people who don’t like heights can use a static trapeze which is low to the ground. “It is really great fun, and rather unique,” says Kim. So if you want to do something that bit different this summer, call 0774 632 7284 to find out more.

Hooray for Summer! Hands on activities whatever the weather every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout August. Archery every Thursday in August, miniature train rides (Tue & Wed) & trails each week. One child goes FREE with this advert & with a full paying adult.

To book call 01527 831363 www.avoncroft.org.uk Registered charity no. 241644

Summer Fun Activities at Hoar Park

DONKEY RIDES (CHECK AVAILABILITY ON DAY) CHILDREN‛S FARM COURTYARD GAMES BOUNCY CASTLE PICNIC & PLAY AREA From End July and throughout August!

Nuneaton Rd, Over Whitacre, Nr Coleshill & Nuneaton, CV10 0QU Tel: 024 76 394433 or 024 76 397733 Tues-Sun for more details

web:www.hoar-park.co.uk email:info@hoar-park.co.uk

Issue 16

Clubs and Classes

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Stars!

Masquerade Musical Theatre presents, “Stars”, a new class for 4 – 6 year olds. This class will offer an introduction to Musical Theatre with an opportunity to use lots of imagination and role play. Classes will be held each Wednesday after school at St Thomas Church, Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon.

Go Wild Summer Academy

Contact Joanne for further information 0121 722 3761 masquerade@telitmail.co.uk or visit their website www.masquerademusicaltheatre.co.uk

Twenty five per cent off tuition when you join in July Explore Learning centres are offering 25 per cent off tuition to anyone joining in July. The centres across the UK offer Maths and English programmes for 5-14 year olds, and run courses for 11plus exam preparation. Joining in July can help guard against a slippage in learning as teachers often say children go backwards over the long summer holidays and forget some of what they have learned. Explore Learning can help keep children’s brains active over the long summer break. Families joining in July will receive 25% off their first full month of tuition at participating centres. The centres are open 7 days a week, and are Ofsted registered, meaning that families can use Childcare

Vouchers to pay for membership. Children attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis, meaning that Explore tuition fits easily into busy family life. To find out more or book a free trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call your local centre.

Clubs & ClassesMUSIC DIRECTORY TIM TANDLER DRUM SCHOOL DANCE & DRAMA

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

MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE

1-to-1 here drum tuition, City Centre To advertise call 0758 352location 6056 Rock School grades 1-8. Ages 4 upwards. Tel: 0121 503 5849 MARTIAL www.timtandlerdrumschool.co.uk ARTS

COMBAT SPORTS

FULL TIME MARTIAL ARTS CENTRE Boxing, Karate, Kickboxing, Self Defence

Telephone: 0121 722 3761

MUSIC

www.masquerademusicaltheatre.co.uk

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

www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk

SPOTLIGHT STAGE SCHOOL Dance/Drama/Singing/Gymnastics Exams, Shows & Competitions North Solihull. 0121-242-3904 www.spotlightstageschool.co.uk

Issue 16

Families with older teens whose sights are set on a career in Veterinary medicine or zoology should also check out the Zoo Keeper Trainer Academy which offers valuable hands-on experience essential to University applications. Go Wild Adventurers’ activities during the week include meeting friendly faces down on the farm to bug hunts and exotic encounters with animals. There are lots of fun and games, arts and crafts and workshops on different animals and their habitats. (Aug 12-16 and Aug 19-23 for ages 8-11) Go Wild Rangers explore the zoo, getting behind the scenes and learning more about the animals and how Dudley Zoo is helping to save some of the world’s endangered species. The week has a varied programme of activities and at the end the children see if they can complete the Zoo Quest challenge. (Aug 5-9, for ages 11-14) The Zoo Keeper Trainer Academy (July 29Aug 2) includes hands-on activities with a wide range of different species. It is ideal for prospective veterinary or zoology students and anyone looking for a taste of an animal based career. There are a maximum of 14 children for each Academy – so you should book early to secure a place. (Call 0844 474 2272).

classes for all ages and abilities VISIT www.combatsportscentre.co.uk to book a FREE trial lesson

Youth Theatre Group, Age 4+

Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA

For animal loving children (aged 8-14) the Go Wild summer Academy at Dudley Zoo offers a perfect summer camp with a jam-packed week of animal adventures.

BIR

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

TUITION

Primary Plus-The Inspiring Tuition Service 11+, SATs, Literacy & Numeracy support from 7 years In the heart of the Jewellery Quarter

Tel: 0845 206 8658

www.primaryplus.org.uk

Come on in, the water’s lovely! Join our family of Puddle Ducks and enjoy baby and pre-school swimming with the most caring and highly-trained teachers around.

FREE taster session

puddleducks.com

07852985139

E. suttoncoldfield@puddleducks.com

Summer Camps

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How to choose a summer camp?

ost parents want the peace of mind that their children are safe, having fun and doing something worthwhile in the school holidays (usually in that order)!” says Phys-kids founder Paul Gilmore.

rather than on fun. Unless they are really dedicated, a child will get fed up playing the same sport all day, not to mind all week. Variety is the spice of life, so, like most things, finding a happy balance between fun and performance is usually the best option.

How do you know it is good value for money?

Everybody has a different value perspective. Look at the activities on offer at each camp and compare the prices of a few. Also look at the alternative options – if they were not at summer camp, how much would I be spending on other leisure activities? Is the money I am paying worth it for the enjoyment value and experience my child is getting from it?

Paul, a primary school teacher, set up Phys-kids in 2000 to raise the standards of youth sport. As well as providing sports coaching in schools, he also runs the Phys-kids holiday activity camp at Tudor Grange Leisure Centre. Solihull, every school holiday, so he knows what parents want. Here he answers some of your questions and explains the ropes:

What is a summer camp?

A UK summer camp is very different from summer camp in America which is residential. In the UK a summer camp means a holiday activity scheme which operates daily in the school holidays. Some will run every week throughout the holidays while others are for set weeks only. Summer camps running every day during the holidays often have wrap-around childcare and operate extended hours from 8am-6pm.

About Phys-kids: Phys-kids runs an Ofsted-registered multi-sports activity summer camp at Tudor Grange Leisure Centre, Solihull, for 8-13 year olds, with more than 20 different sports on offer. It costs £18 per day or £80 for the week. Extended hours available for working parents. To find out more or to book: call 0121 708 2116; e-mail admin@phys-kids.co.uk or log on to www.phys-kids.co.uk

Does a summer camp have to be Ofsted registered?

Registering with Ofsted is not compulsory for summer camps providing that the children are over 8 years old. However, those that do register must comply with strict guidelines and regular visits, which can be reassuring for parents. Also, summer camps usually need to be Ofsted registered to accept childcare vouchers or working families’ tax credits. Parents who would like to learn more about Ofsted’s requirements for holiday activities and childcare can visit www.ofsted.gov.uk

Who will be looking after my child?

It is compulsory for all staff at Ofsted registered summer camps to have enhanced CRB checks and to receive safeguarding and first aid training. This, however, is no indication of the quality of the staff. The best summer camps will allocate a larger budget to pay for experienced, well qualified, professional and enthusiastic staff.

How do you select the best summer camp?

You need to find activities that are a good fit for your child. While a play scheme might be great for a younger child, an older child is likely to be bored. Simply giving an 8 year old the opportunity to ‘play’ can be a recipe for disaster. They will thrive on more structured activities. Then you need to decide which is most important to your child – fun or performance. For example a coaching camp for a single sport is likely to be focused solely on performance

Circus

SUMMER SCHOOL

8-15 year olds Introducing you to:

Circus Skills Static Trapeze Aerial Silks End of week performance for parents

When? From JULY 29th to AUG 2nd 10-4pm

Where? MINERVA WORKS,

Cost? £95

FAZELEY STREET, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM B5 5RT To Book: call 07746327284 or email: info@rogueplay.co.uk or visit: www.rogueplay.co.uk

A Birmingham Circus Theatre company: performance, school workshops, classes for adults and children.

Issue 16

Summer Camps

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Job Lot of young stars wanted

riters from the ITV comedy The Job Lot will be producing the Round Midnight annual performing arts summer school in Sutton Coldfield this year. It is a chance for young people aged 7-16 to work with professional writers, directors, musicians and choreographers, and get experience in all aspects of theatre. Many of the young people involved in previous years have gone on to work in the performing arts including Rasmus Hardicker (actor, Saxondale, Your Highness) Chanelle Owen (actor, MI High) and Gemma McDonnell (production manager, Channel 4’s One Born Every Minute). Stuart Lane and Claire Downes, co-creators and writers of the, The Job Lot, founded Round Midnight in 1992. Recently they have had to take a back

seat in the day-today running of the company because of television commitments, but they are finding time in their schedules to produce the summer school. Stuart said: “The summer school is very important to us and no matter how busy we are we’re determined to be involved. We cut our teeth writing shows like this and we met Ian Jarvis, our co-writer on the Job Lot, in 1998 when he was fifteen and he came along to the summer school. ”We’ve assembled a great team for the project and I’m sure all the young people involved will have an amazing time.” The summer school takes place from July 29 to August 2 and from August 5-9. It is split into two weeks - week one for 7 to 11-year-olds and week two for 11 to 16-year-olds. Both weeks take place at Clifton Road Youth Centre, Sutton Coldfield. The summer school culminates in two full length original productions for the whole family. For further information and to book your place contact Emmi Isham on 0121 440 8188, or e-mail emmi@ roundmidnight.org.uk

Make a record this summer

Art summer schools

Spend your summer in the recording studio and bring along your mates. Progress Music Academy in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter are planning on running some summer performance workshops for 7 to16-year-olds at their recording studio. A weeklong workshop runs from 10am-3pm Monday to Friday and costs £99. For more information on the summer schools - or to book a single session with your friends - call 0121 212 9642.

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts at the University of Birmingham are running 3-day art summer schools with classes for children aged 4-7 and 8 upwards. Call 0121 414 2261 or e-mail education@barber.org.uk to find out more. In Knowle, Art’s Cool will be running half day and full day art summer schools. Call 0774 630681 for more information.

Tennis camps

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Moseley Tennis Club, Billesley Lane, run summer tennis camps which aim to give children a whole term’s coaching in just one week. The camps are aimed at 5-16 year olds, with a maximum of 8 children aged 5-7 in a group, and six children to a group of older children. For further information call Tim Linton on 07867 872677.

Have a splashing summer

For tennis coaching in Solihull call Jayne Isaac at West Warwickshire Tennis Club, Grange Road, Olton, on 07846 756264. Sutton Coldfield Tennis Club, Highbridge Road, offer summer camps. Call them on 0121 355 0917. Edgbaston Priory Club have tennis based Kids camps. Call on 0121 440 2492 for further details.

Make a Splash Swimschool, Solihull, will be running intensive summer swim schools for school age children (5 lessons over 5 days). Call Suzie 0121 7059374 Mob: 07989 122064 or e-mail: hello@makeasplash.co.uk

Puddle Ducks Sutton Coldfield and Walsall will be running baby and toddler swim classes on August 4, 11, 18 and 25 (Queen Mary Grammar School, Walsall). Anyone interested in enrolling should contact Nadia Soar on 07852 985139 or email suttoncoldfield@ puddleducks.com

Summer Camps

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

District 12 – Solihull Theatre

laybox Theatre is running an innovative drama summer school at Solihull Arts Complex inspired by Suzanne Collins’ hugely popular trilogy - The Hunger Games. This week-long, action-packed drama school run by a team of professional TV and film directors, is designed to appeal to 9-18 year olds, and it will be a real treat for fans of the trilogy and the movie. Reality TV taken to the limit... 24 young people, selected at random, face one another in the ultimate game show. This really is survival of the fittest, as

Football

there can be only one winner... the rules are simple...kill off the competition. Oh yes... and every moment is broadcast live across the country … Young people taking part in the performance project can expect a week of acting, devising, physical theatre, make up, stage and film technique. The summer school concludes with a presentation in the main theatre on Friday. For fans of the book – may the odds be with you! District 12 Summer School Date: July 29Aug 2. Time 10am-4pm. For further information and to book call 0121 704 6962.

T&C’s Apply

Club Futsal Birmingham will be running skills development summer camps at the Club Futsal indoor Arena at Great King Street, B19. Call 0774 5565745 to find out more. AVFC organise summer coaching camps at Sutton Coldfield, Edgbaston, Selly Oak, Kings Norton, Aston, and Kings Norton. Call 0800 612 0970 to find out more.

www.ackers-adventure.co.uk info@ackers-adventure.co.uk

Theatre Summer School

DISTRICT 12 Based on the bestselling ‘Hunger Games’ trilogy written by Suzanne Collins, now a major cinema film.

A 5-day course for young people aged 9-18 years. Unique and fun course covering lots of aspects of theatre work and leading to a show finale for family. Course presented in association with

Playbox National Theatre School Summer school from 29 July - 2 August 20113 On stage at Solihull Arts Complex. Course fee £120 per person Places are limited to 30

www.solihullartscomplex.co.uk

Box Office: 0121 704 6962 Issue 16

Parenting

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Play Safe with computer games

re you worried about your child’s screen time, and, if not, should you be?

Since user-friendly i-pad and i-phone hit the market place even two-year-old toddlers are now playing with computers. And, by the time they hit their teens, 96 cent of 10-15 year olds have computers at home while 89 per cent have at least one games console. Parents are amazed at the speed with which their children learn to use computer gadgetry, and computer know-how has fast become an essential life skill, but there are dangers. Research has shown that screens are increasingly turning into electronic babysitters, with young people in the UK spending more time plugged in than ever, and proven evidence that some video games can lead to increased aggression in children. Katharine Hill, UK Director at national charity Care for the Family says: “Parents have a key role to play in managing children’s computer use and video gaming. As parents, we have to do our homework, get up to speed – and get involved! With younger children, especially, it’s important to get involved and set boundaries.”

Five top tips for parents: Insist on time out Mum Liz says: “I was shocked when I watched my son playing a fighting game. When he failed to clear a level he would get really angry. If I wanted to talk to him he was very irritable and rude. Now, I watch for those signs - frustration, aggression, rudeness - and if I feel a game is too much for him, I insist he takes time out.”

Use the guidance All games sold in the UK include age ratings and most also have indicators of content on the cover. Parents ignore these at their peril. I recall hearing a 10 year old in the school playground talking about playing a violent 18-rated war game his parents had bought for him. The same parents would not have allowed their son to watch an 18 movie! There are several magazines and websites which review games. Insist that you vet any games before they are bought - and try to make sure you see any games they borrow from friends before

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12 Issue 16

they start playing them. Talk to the parents of your child’s friends to see if you can agree a consistent approach.

Set time limits Agree time limits in advance according to the age of your child. Dad Jon says: “The longer children play the lower their concentration span, so a positive way to set time limits is to explain that to your kids.”

Play the games with your kids Make it an activity you can do together. Dad Matt says: “Playing games with my children is a great way to monitor what’s out there. It wouldn’t be fair to say ‘that’s unsuitable’ when I have no idea what the game is about or involves. I also find it a great way to bond, especially with the vast host of multi-player games on the market. We often have our own family ‘team’ that looks out for each other and works together. It’s fun to have something in common.”

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Channel their game-playing positively “As our boys enjoy sport, I try to encourage them to play some of the sporting games where there’s rarely an issue over content”, says mum Kate.

If you’re feeling exasperated about the amount of time your kids are spending playing games, remember that the computer games industry is big business. Encourage your kids, if they really love gaming, to get into the techie programming side of things. They could even pursue a career reviewing games in magazines, or create games themselves. Who knows - your kids may beEng thelan next big thing computer games! d rea che d theinlas t finals in Euro 2009 losing eventually t For further information visit but Kaz did sco re a go al! When they played Cro www.careforthefamily.org.uk atia away in March Engla

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Mums in business

Woman on a mission - gets results

he last 12 months have been a whirlwind for Natalie Jones – a woman on a mission.

Three years ago Natalie set up Academic Excellence with the backing of the Prince’s Trust. The aim was simple – to ensure that every child had access to top quality academic support outside school at an affordable price. Achieving the aim was not quite so simple, but Natalie didn’t let that get in her way. “It has taken blood, sweat and tears but I do feel passionate about it, and that will never change,” she says. While her own children are lucky enough to be able to attend private schools, Natalie is adamant every child should have the same opportunities to succeed, and that is the force which drives her. In her first year of operating, she had tutors (all of whom are qualified teachers) working from five venues across the city in Edgbaston, Quinton, Chelmsley Wood, Solihull and Erdington. Tuition costs £10-£15 an hour but depending on family circumstances, pupils can have up to 80 per cent of the tuition fees paid. With prompting from parents, Natalie also introduced a holiday club helping children to catch up or get ahead with school work, as well as taking part in fun activities Fast forward two years to summer 2012 and Natalie took on and refurbished a large Georgian building in Edgbaston to create a bright, airy centre offering after-school care and activities as well as academic tuition. There are facilities for music lessons (bass guitar, piano, etc), dance and sport clubs, as well as a fully equipped games room, homework club, common room and a canteen providing hot or cold meals and snacks. Academic Excellence works with children from all backgrounds, from families who are very well off to those struggling to make ends meet. They also work with children with a wide ability range, from high-flyers to young people who are less academically able and want support to boost their grades. They work alongside schools both in the private sector and in disadvantaged areas providing extra tuition.

“I have to admit it’s been quite a manic year, but in a very positive way,” laughs Natalie. “And we have lots to celebrate. All children bar one got into the grammar school of their choice; all children taking independent school entrance exams got their places; among our GCSE students no child came out with less than a B, and we have had A* grades at A levels. We are still waiting for SATS results but, looking at the outcome of mock tests children took here, we are optimistic that many of our primary school pupils will achieve level 6 this summer.” “We are constantly growing” says Natalie. “If there is a demand for something, we will try to provide it. This year, for example, we will offer tuition in the new International GCSE (IGCSE) because the grammar and private schools are introducing it, and we know others will follow suit.” So what comes next? Clearly, Natalie is not one to shirk a challenge. The answer is: ‘Whatever parents or schools ask for.’

Register Call Natalie now if you are interested in registering your child for tuition from September at any of the centres – Edgbaston, Solihull, Chelmsley Wood, Erdington or Quinton, or you want to know more about after school care, or any of the activities or classes, on offer at the Edgbaston Centre There is a pickup service available from schools within a 3 mile radius.

Holiday Club Please call early to book a place on the summer holiday fun club (July 29 –Aug 30) as places are limited. The club runs from 10am4pm and wrap-around childcare is also available. Tel: 0121 454 2845

To celebrate the Edgbaston Centre’s first birthday, Natalie is hosting a free family fun day with bouncy castle, bucking bronco, fun and games on Saturday, July 20, between 12 and 3pm. (9 George Road, Edgbaston, B15 1NP.) Parents and children are invited to come along to join in the fun. You will also have a chance to look around the centre and to Germany see the facilites on offer.

and won 6-0. Issue 16

The Great Outdoors

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Fifty things to do be

e are on a mission my 11 ¼ year old and I - and we are up against a deadline. In six months time she wants to have completed the National Trust’s fifty things to do challenge before she is aged out!. The National Trust’s campaign is a brilliant antidote to the modern obsession with indoor screen-time and a glorious celebration of all that is fun about childhood and the great outdoors. My daughter has climbed a tree, rolled down a big hill, skimmed stones, run in the rain, flown a kite, caught a fish in a net, played conkers, made mudpies, and picked blackberries growing wild. She has gone swimming in the sea, built a raft, tried rockclimbing, canoeing, and horse-riding, walked barefoot, climbed a huge hill, explored a cave, gone star-gazing, explored rock-pools, played pooh sticks, visited a farm, and much more over the course of her childhood. Indeed, I was surprised by just how many of the activities on the National Trust’s 50 Things to do list she could tick off - so, perhaps, all is not lost for the current generation of children. But, as the deadline approaches we have discovered some serious omissions. She says she has never caught a crab (I am convinced she has; she is adamant she hasn’t); she has never camped wild (sadly, the back garden doesn’t count!); cooked on a campfire (isn’t basic cooking challenging enough?) found frogspawn; (I remember doing that as a child); tracked wild animals, or found a geocache. Add to that list – damming a stream; setting up a snail race, making a grass trumpet and going on a night time nature walk, and it looks like we have a busy, but fun, summer ahead. You can print off a 50 things to do list from www.nationaltrust.org.uk/50things. Sign up to the challenge online to unlock special certificates, games, hidden secret challenges and rewards for the best explorers. You can visit National Trust properties at Packwood House and Baddesley Clinton to explore the grounds and tick off the challenges, or go geocaching at the National Trust site at Clent Hills.

Campfires, tipi tents and woodland adventure As for camping in the wild, I’m considering heading to the Tipi Village at Umberslade Farm Park for a weekend. By day there will be plenty to do at Umberslade Farm Park, and a newly-opened woodland activities centre 3 miles away, with its commando course, low ropes course, bushcraft, and woodland trails. There are also great walks and places to cycle in the Warwickshire countryside. In the evening we can sit around the campfire with the smell of wood smoke in the air and food cooking on the barbecue, before retiring to our tipi tent. It’s especially appealing because this can be a very civilised weekend in the wild; I won’t have to put up the tent or find the firewood! And, if I don’t fancy cooking breakfast, I can always head along to Umberslade Farm Café. (They can even open the cafe by negotiation for evening meals for parties of more than 10 – but I guess dodging the campfire cooking would be cheating). With the magic of the campfire, cooking in the open, the fresh air and outdoor activities, my bet is … in years to come a weekend spent in the tipi tent will be recalled when details of family holidays spent in far more exotic locations will be forgotten. If I could make a party of it with friends or relatives and delegate the campfire cooking, this certainly sounds like a winner. Overnight stay in a Bell tent (Mon-Thurs £70); one night weekend £99 or two nights £180. Larger 21ft Tipi tents also available. Special summer tipi offer £80 per night (Mon-Thurs). Weekend £130 one night or £240 two nights. For further information and prices call: 01564 742251. www.umberslade.com Umberslade Adventure: Family ticket: £15. www.umbersladeadventure.com Tel: 01564 742961.

14 Issue 16

The Great Outdoors

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

efore you’re 11¾

Photos © Claire Greenway www.clairegreenway.co.uk

The Good Life!

Ever fancied keeping chickens or ducks? Pay a visit to Hoar Park Children’s Farm and craft centre at Ansley, Nuneaton, and see what the good life is all about. As well as the children’s farm with its guinea pigs, rabbits and goats, Hoar Park breeds poultry and waterfowl for sale. The farm can cater for the novice chicken keeper who wants to get started with some friendly laying hens or the poultry enthusiast looking for a new breed. For urbanites who think they already have the good life, Hoar Park offers a family day out with shopping at the craft centre, the children’s farm, and some summer fun with bouncy castle, donkey rides and a giant soft play slide.

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Issue 16

Holidays

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Pembrokeshire

ousehold budgets are squeezed, sterling is lacking in clout when it comes to Euro exchange rates, but we all want to go on a summer holiday. The answer for 2 in 3 families in the UK this year is a summer staycation.

Living in the Midlands, Devon and Cornwall are popular hotspot holiday destinations, but I would suggest turning right off the M5 onto the M50 and heading for West Wales. I lived in Pembrokeshire for three years and loved it. Fresh air, miles of sandy beaches, stunning sea views and coastal path walks, the rolling Preseli hills – there is always something to do and something to explore. Yet, even at the height of the season you can head away from the crowds and find quieter beaches with massive expanses of space or peaceful inlets with great rock pools for children to explore.

16 Issue 16

This is a holiday for families who love the great outdoors whether you prefer walking, pony trekking, exploring castles, or trying out the many water sports like kayaking, canoeing or surfing. But the good news is that there are also plenty of child-friendly activities and attractions for wet weather days.

Great beaches

Pembrokeshire has more than 50 beaches and no other county in Britain has more blue flag and seaside awards. The beaches around the old medieval walled town of Tenby draw the crowds. But in Pembrokeshire you are spoilt for choice and it is really worth exploring more. I love the sweep of Newport sands in the north of the County and the picturesque and sheltered Cwm-yr-Eglwys beach nearby which is a haven for boaters. Or try Barafundle - you reach it from Stackpole where you can park your car and walk over the cliffs. The view as you turn the corner and look down on Barafundle bay will take your breath away. Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Little Haven – a charming little village with a small sandy and rocky inlet. Walk up to the

– beats Co

headland for some panoramic sea views, or at low tide stroll from Little Haven to its bigger sister Broad Haven, clambering across some rocks and along the beach.

Watersports

Anyone keen on watersports will love Pembrokeshire. Newgale and Whitesands are great for surfing and surf schools will take children from beginners through to improvers. You can also introduce them to sea snorkelling and scuba diving (aged 8plus) with one of the Pembrokeshire diving schools. Adventure centres such as the Princess Trust backed Pembrokeshire Adventure Centre organise courses in a variety of water based sports activities. .

Walks

Pembrokeshire is a walker’s paradise being the UK’s only truly Coastal National Park with 186 miles of paths stretching from St Dogmaels in the North round to Amroth in the South. No visit to Pembrokeshire would be complete without a cliff-top walk but you need to take care as there are some sheer falls so you need to keep toddlers close and make sure children stick to the path at all times.

Holidays

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ornwall for best family beach holiday!

For a short family walk try starting at the slate quarries at Abereiddi passing the blue lagoon (popular for coasteering and kayaking), and heading up the cliff-top path, stopping off to play and explore at Traeth Llyfn beach along the way. This has the quality of a secret beach because it is not accessible by road. You get to it via several flights of steep steps taking you down the sheer cliff face. While playing and paddling are fine, it is not safe for swimming because of currents. After you climb back up to the clifftop, head further along the path to Porthgain and stop off at the Sloop Inn for a bite to eat. Relax and watch the world go by! Inland the landscape can be equally as beautiful. Climb the Preseli hills if you’re feeling energetic, or take a picnic and walk the 7-mile circuit around Llys y fran reservoir and Country Park. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Tafarn Sinc at Rosebush – the highest licensed pub in Pembrokeshire. This is an old railway building, full of character with wooden floors, sawdust, wood burning stoves and comfortable snugs. Say “Bore Da” (Good Day) to the Welsh speaking proprietor Hafwen Davies.

Children’s favourites

Away from the beach and the outdoor life, theme parks at Oakwood and Heatherton are always a winner with children. Folly Farm is ideal for younger ones where they can feed the animals, play on a pirate ship or ride an old fashioned carousel, and with its good indoor play area it is very much an all weather attraction. I have also whiled away many happy hours painting ceramics with my daughters at the Creative Café in Narberth, and a second has opened in Haverfordwest. When it comes to choosing a relaxing summer staycation far from the madding crowds, my vote definitely goes to Pembrokeshire. But don’t take my word for it, try it yourself. To find out more log on to www.visitpembrokeshire.co.uk Pictures courtesy of Pembrokeshire County Council Issue 16

Education

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Summer Story Challenge – Well, OK – Mums, Dads and teachers can read, but these pages are really for children who love stories.

hich do you prefer best, writing your own stories or doing spellings and grammar tests? Only read on if you chose the first.

Recently, children’s author Michael Morpurgo described the new SPAG (spelling, punctuation and grammar) test for year 6 pupils as ‘more rigor mortis than rigorous’. (In true Lemony Snicket style, a note to children reading this: rigor mortis – think of stiff, dead; rigorous – in other words, painstaking and demanding.) Neither rigor mortis nor academic rigour sound like much fun do they? But, don’t worry: I don’t think Michael Morpurgo is a big SPAG fan either! That is not to say that spelling, punctuation and grammar are not important. If Morpurgo’s books had no capital letters or full stops, and if he didn’t spell words properly and messed up the grammar, you wouldn’t be able to enjoy reading them. Getting all the boring stuff right means readers can concentrate on the story because they are not distracted by trying to figure out what the author means. You might think – ‘It’s OK for Michael Morpurgo. After all he has written hundreds of books (War Horse, Private Peaceful, Waiting for Anya, Sparrow, Running Wild, Bad Lad, etc) so it must be easy for him’. But that’s not quite true. He says: “When I was in school there was a huge focus on copying and testing and it put me off words and stories for years.” So, you see, when he was your age he too worried about marks for spelling tests, and being told off and letting people down if he didn’t do well. Now, though, he is a famous author and he talks a lot of sense because he knows what school can be like. He says it is very important that children don’t lose their creative spark and get turned off writing just because they think they might get spelling, punctuation and grammar wrong. We agree – and we have a sneaking suspicion that a lot of your teachers will too. Reading and writing should be fun for children. You should certainly try to get the SPAG bits right because otherwise you could confuse your readers, but it is even more important to enjoy using words to tell your story, describe your characters, create an atmosphere, and build a picture.

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For Kids Only A measly prize If you think so too – take part in our Families magazine Summer Story challenge – and write a winning story. I have to tell you straight – there is no famous judge (in fact, Michael Morpurgo doesn’t even know about this competition – we just told you about him because we agree with all he said.) And, I’m afraid the prize is a bit measly - £25 vouchers for two winners and £25 for their school funds. But, anyway, this really is more about creating and sharing stories. We will load the winners’ entries onto our website and you can get all your friends to read them online.

There are no rules. Well, maybe just a few. Anyone aged under 7 should keep their word limit to 500, and 8-11 year olds to 1,000. That should be enough to WOW your reader. It doesn’t have to be that long though! So forget about word count when you are writing and just focus on your story. Your story can be about anything – but, if giving you all that choice makes it more difficult, ask your mum, dad or teacher to suggest a couple of story titles and that will be enough to get you thinking. The deadline for entries is the end of September 2013. That gives you all the rest of July (when you probably won’t be getting much homework because it is almost the end of the school year); the whole school summer holidays, and another month when you are back at school to write and perfect your story.

The winner in both categories will get a £25 voucher and the school will get £25 towards their school funds. Right – over to you. I will so enjoy reading your stories. PS – Please, don’t be put off writing even if you don’t win. Remember that the Harry Potter books were turned down by 12 publishers before one said yes. So keep believing in yourself and your stories.

To enter our competition: Website: Log on to www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk click on Summer Story Competition, scroll to the end, click the enter here link and upload your story. Or e-mail your entry to editor@ familiesbirmingham.co.uk Don’t forget to let us know your name, age and what school you attend.

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Issue 16

Parenting

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Raising girls: getting back

few years ago psychologist Steve Biddulph was advising parents of boys on how to raise them to avoid a battery of difficulties. Now he’s back with a formula for how to raise girls. Joanna Moorhead, a mother of four daughters, asked him what matters most. The day after I gave birth to our fourth daughter, my husband was involved in a puzzling exchange with our neighbour. The baby had been born at home overnight, so the neighbour was keen to hear the news over the garden fence. “It’s another girl,” announced my husband excitedly. “Oh,” said the neighbour, looking downcast. “And are you very disappointed?”

Biddulph’s advice is simple

Avoid all sex-stereotyped toys and products like the plague. From her earliest days, think not about what material possessions you are giving your daughter: instead, concentrate on how you’re making her feel. From birth to two, he explains, all that really matters to a baby girl is that she feels safe and loved. In a world where the arrival of a little girl is often seen as an invitation to start showering her with possessions – cute outfits, a pretty bedroom – he advocates forgetting all about what she has (especially if it’s of the ‘girly’ variety) and concentrating entirely on how welcome, and wanted, and loved she is in your life. The deep-rooted confidence that brings will, he

Gary and I enjoyed telling the story, and we enjoy telling it to this day, because disappointment was truly the very last emotion we felt when our lovely little Catriona arrived to join her big sisters Rosie, Elinor and Miranda. Raising boys may, for all I know, be every bit as exciting and fun-filled as raising girls; but the truth is, I know nothing about it. I’m sure it’s similar, but I’m sure there are also ways in which it’s different: and the point is that, by the time Catriona was born, I was already quite certain that bringing up girls was a fabulous task to be taking centre-stage in my life. So, from the moment the line went blue on my pregnancy test, I was secretly hoping for another daughter. And when she finally landed, Gary and I couldn’t have been more thrilled. Fast-forward ten years, and it’s still every bit as wonderful now as it was back then. But the last few years have brought a few scary moments – and, explains psychologist Steve Biddulph, I’m certainly not the only parent of daughters to have discovered that. Fifteen years ago, Biddulph leapt to fame when his groundbreaking book ‘Raising Boys’ tackled the difficulties that were making life tough for parents of boys – rising rates of ADHD, aggressive behaviour, teenage drinking. Back then, he says, “girls were doing just fine”. But no longer. “It all started to change about five years ago. We began to see a sudden and marked plunge in girls’ mental health. Problems such as eating disorders and self-harm, which once had been extremely rare, were now happening in every classroom and every street. And more than this, the average girl was stressed and depressed in a way she hadn’t been before.”  So now Biddulph is back with a new book aimed at parents with girls. And the message he wants to give us is that, from their earliest times, we need to bomb-proof them from what he calls “a world that seems bent on poisoning their confidence and trashing their lives”. What the onslaught is all about, says Biddulph, is the fact that advertisers have fixed their beady eyes on our pre-teen daughters: they’ve realised that little girls are extremely malleable from a marketing point of view, and they’ve gone all-out to sell them not only pink-clad dolls and sex-typed toys, but also sexualised clothes (long, long before any little girl should be thinking about looking attractive to the opposite sex) and pre-adolescent make-up.

20 Issue 16

promises, be something she carries with her right through her life. From two to five, a little girl starts feeling interested in the world around her: now, she needs to be introduced to the world as an exciting and fascinating place, a place full of adventures. From five to ten it’s all about people skills – what she most needs to discover, says Biddulph, is that while her feelings are very important indeed, other people’s feelings matter too.

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on track With the coming of puberty, a girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thoughts shift towards what Biddulph calls â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;finding her soulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;: if she is helped and encouraged to find what he calls her â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sparkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, some passion or interest that she cares deeply about and is willing to invest her time in, that will help her to find fulfilment through her entire life. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an empowering message: best of all, for parents like me, is Biddulphâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s conviction that the family and the adults surrounding a girl are the most important elements in helping light the fire that will burn through all her days. If girlhood has sometimes seemed scary, Biddulph reminds us that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting and enriching â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and guides us through the skills that will help us help our daughters, time after time. Steve Biddulphâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Raising Girls is published by HarperCollins, ÂŁ12.99

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Lifestyle

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All work and no play is damaging family life

culture of ‘all work and no play’ in the UK is damaging family life, causing high stress levels and creating an inability to switch off from work, according to a new study. Birmingham parents, the study revealed, had the worst work/life balance of any area in the UK with almost half (43.3per cent) saying they did not feel they were getting it right! The survey, commissioned by health cash plan provider Medicash, found that a whopping 83 per cent of working parents feel guilty about the amount of time they spend working, with 50 per cent saying it has a negative impact on relationships with their children. Half of all respondents admitted to missing their child’s sports day, school play or parents’ evenings due to work commitments, 42.9% said they had worked through family holidays, and 58.8% admitted their children had complained about the amount of time they spent working. If all this sounds familiar, than take comfort in the fact you are not alone. Thirty per cent of us have had to ask someone to collect our children from school or nursery at the last minute because of work. And, does this ring a bell? Dosing a child with Calpol before sending them to school or nursery when they are under the weather, although, had you not been working, you would have kept them home? Forty six per cent of parents admitted to this, and anyone who has been

1,500

there will know the stress and guilt that particular home/work conflict creates. Cary Cooper, Professor of Organisational Psychology and Health at Lancaster University, said: “The fact that many people feel guilty about how they spend their time is hugely significant - it shows how important it is to maintain work/life balance.” The study also revealed that heavy workloads were responsible for increased stress levels, with over 60 per cent of respondents saying they found it difficult to switch off from work when at home. The UK has some of the longest working hours in Europe, with average UK workers spending 1,625 hours a year at work, and more than 3 million UK employees (1 in 8) working more than 48 hours a week. A study published last year by the TUC estimated workers undertook 2 billion hours of unpaid overtime - the equivalent of one million fulltime jobs. Professor Cooper said: “We all need a certain level of financial security, but past a certain point it’s our personal relationships which are by far the most important aspect of our quality of life. The fact that more than 1 in 10 feel threatened with redundancy shows that the economy is a clear pressure but there is a wider cultural problem of overwork, and not just at executive levels.”

Luxury – A family day out If a rewarding job with true security that provides you with the work/life balance, flexibility and control over your own destiny sounds appealing – contact Carolyn Rose today. You can work part time, around your existing work or family commitments and there is no financial investment. Find out how Carolyn’s children can always be her priority – working part-time hours to suit her family commitments – you too could change your life.

Contact Carolyn for a FREE information pack on

07789 916278 or email: carolynrose121@gmail.com 22 Issue 16

Quality family time tops a list of life’s luxuries for parents. In a study about parents’ concepts of luxury, a family day out comfortably beat exotic foreign holidays, designer clothes, pampering and sports cars. A simple weekend lie-in was also a luxury for 45 per cent, as was reading a book for one third of parents. But, while parents say they value more time with family, they cannot seem to put aside work guilt-free to spend more time together. Two thirds of parents admitted they worked hard to achieve financial goals at the expense of family time. Perhaps, Families magazine can help you achieve both. Have a family day out without blowing the budget. Simply, take advantage of the free child tickets for Umberslade Farm Park, near Solihull, (page 5) and for Avoncroft Museum, Bromsgrove, (page 7). Remember to take the advert with you to claim your free ticket. For discounted tickets for a family trip to In the Night Garden Live at Cannon Hill park (July 26-Aug 8), just quote family74 when booking. 0333 300 0016 www.nightgardenlive.com

Parties

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MUSIC ACADEMY

! FAVOURITE SONG RECORD YOUR R TA PS TO BE A PO EVER WANTED FOR THE DAY? es in brand new Children’s parti io recording stud Call 0121 212 9642

www.progess-academy.co.uk

It’s party time!

4BSBI +BOF T

KIDS!

n the early years birthday parties are all uni-sex, whether it is soft play, a disco or traditional birthday games.

As they get that bit older some parties have more girl appeal and others more boy appeal. Families magazine asked a small panel of young people for their ideas of what worked best for girls, boys and uni-sex parties. See if you agree.

Top uni-sex parties Laser parties – surprisingly as this involves shooting at Laser targets, this easily revealed itself to be as popular with girls as it is with boys. (I can vouch for this as both of my girls had laser parties when they were about 9 or 10 and loved them.) Our panel explained the unisex appeal could be because while it involves shooting at targets, no one actually gets hit, and it is great fun. Check out the Laser Quest parties at Star City and plan ahead. They are offering special party rates at the moment. Snow and ski parties – the panel said skiing, tobogganing, and snow boarding appeal just as much to girls as to boys. Try the dry ski slope at Ackers Adventure in Birmingham or Snowdome in Tamworth. Swim parties – according to our panel, inflatables and water slides can be a winner whatever the gender of the party host.

Loved by girls

Popstar party – though these can be uni-sex, our panel says they will appeal particularly to girls as boys can be more shy about singing? (Not sure the X Factor contestants would agree) Try Progress Music Academy, Birmingham, who organise popstar parties. Tel: 0121 212 9642 Cupcakes and cooking parties – our panel say these parties have more of a girl flavour. Try Sarah Jane Cupcake parties – organised in your own home, or at a venue. Tel: 0121 704 3399. Makeover, fashion and sleepovers are definitely a girls’ domain, say our panel, as are sleepovers with girly gossip!

Best for Boys

Only £99

Held in your own home or party venue for further details

Please contact Sarah on 0121 704 3399 or 07811 348739

Paintballing – loved by boys, say the panel, but girls are more wary because this does involve getting hit! Football – while in the early years football parties can be uni-sex (Little Kickers for under 7), the older the child the more likely they are to split along gender lines but boys thrive on football. Go-karting and quad-biking – more MONDAY & TUESDAY boy than girl appeal ROCKET PARTY £10.99 PP! 2 GAMES OF LASER, CHOICE OF PIZZA AND SQUASH when they hit 10, say ADD A BOOSTER £1.99 PP! the panel. Try The FULL CHOICE OF FOOD, PARTY BAGS, DODGEMS Raceway at Oldbury AND A T SHIRT FOR THE BIRTHDAY CHILD. for junior birthday MINIMUM OF 8 CHILDREN parties – aged ten plus, with go-kart speeds of up to 45 miles an THURSDAY & FRIDAY hour on indoor track. MEGA PARTY At the younger age THE BIRTHDAY VIP IN YOUR LIFE RECEIVES: TROOP COMMANDER T-SHIRT • BIRTHDAY CARD & it’s different – four to GIFT VOUCHER WORTH £5.99 • EXCLUSIVE PARTY ROOM eight-year-olds of both INCLUDED (USUALLY EXTRA CHARGE) PLUS 1000 POINTS TO CHOOSE THEIR OWN genders will love Kids FANTASTIC GIFT FROM FUN STATION! Karting parties with VIP GUESTS RECEIVE: electric karts which 2 GAMES OF LASER • PARTY AREA PARTY BAGS • FULL PARTY FOOD CHOICE WITH have safety frames and UNLIMITED SQUASH • 2 RIDES ON THE DODGEMS harnesses and a top ALL FOR £15.99 PER HEAD! min. 8 people in party speed of 6 miles an hour. Call Tony or Ellie GROUP DISCOUNTS! on 0121 441 5023 to PLEASE ASK FOR MORE DETAILS find out more or see www.laserstation.co.uk their website on www. OFFERS NOT AVAILABLE DURING SCHOOL/BANK HOLIDAYS, go-kartparty.co.uk THESE OFFER CAN BE WITHDRAWN OR CHANGED AT ANY TIME.

Special Offers

VIP

Issue 16 23

Travel

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From Birmingham to Billund…

pic! That in a nutshell was my 11-yearold’s verdict on our weekend away in Billund, Denmark – home of the original Legoland resort; Lalandia, Scandinavia’s largest Aquadome; and nearby Givskud Zoo.

We flew direct from Birmingham airport on the new bmi regional flight and got to Legoland Billund and Lalandia in almost the same time it would have taken us to travel to Windsor - by-passing all traffic jams. Our flight took off at 7am on Friday morning and we had cleared the airport and were at the resort ninety minutes later, 9.45 am Danish time. Legoland and Lalandia are right beside one another and between the Legoland Park rides and the Aquadome slides, this is child heaven. Once you land everything is on tap, from play areas to child-friendly restaurants, so for parents of children aged 2-12 who want a hasslefree holiday or short break away, this certainly ticks all the boxes. Language is no barrier as just about every Dane we met from the taxi driver to the shop assistant spoke fluent English. (If you are a fan of the TV series Borgen, you might already have picked up a few words of Danish like ‘Hej’ (hello) and Tak (thank you) but you don’t even need these to get by.) Before heading to the Park we booked into our accommodation - a, light, airy and pleasant self-catering holiday home at Lalandia resort which opened out onto a veranda, perfect for barbecues. If your chalet is not ready when you arrive, you can store your luggage in lockers at the centre and get going. For the duration of your stay at Lalandia, you have free entry to the Aquadome tropical aquapark and to the Monky Tonky indoor play area. There is also winter world (iceskating, ski slope, toboggan hill, and climbing wall) on site, as well as a fitness centre, bowling, mini-golf, giant high-jump trampolines and a fun arcade. But, to start with, we headed straight across the road to Legoland drawn to the outdoors by the blue skies and sunshine. More than 80 per cent of visitors to Legoland are return visitors which speaks volumes about its family appeal. Whether you’re a toddler, a twelve year old, or an adult (borrow children if you need to) the park will draw you in. It starts with a gentle stroll around Miniland with its fascinating scenes from countries around the world. Then on to the rides - as you travel further

into the park the toddler rides give way to more exciting rides like the Dragon ride starting as a sedate train ride through the knight’s castle with its life-size lego models, before speeding up and ending with a roller coaster flourish, or the water ride where you meander along a water flume before a splashing finale as you plunge to the finish. Compete to see who can shoot the most targets with a laser gun in the Egyptian tomb, then head to Polar Land to see the penguins and ride on Polar Xplorer – a free-fall snow mobile rollercoaster with a top speed of 65 miles an hour and some stomach churning drops. I selflessly allowed the children to enjoy this one solo! The park never felt too crowded, and the queues were all quite short (we were there in June), which made for a comfortable day out. But, most of the rides closed at 5 and the park shut at 7, so in hindsight it would have been better to start at the end and work our way backwards to Miniland to make most use of the time. That way we might also have avoided the madding crowds in the Legoland shop at 5.30pm as everyone stopped off there before making their way out of the park.

Total Tornado

In the evening we shared a bottle of wine on the veranda of the holiday chalet, before we headed back to Lalandia Plaza to eat in Café Bambino, a buffet style restaurant with options to suit everyone in the party. On finishing their meals – or to be more accurate in between courses - the children disappeared off to explore the play areas, giving the adults much-needed down time while the never-flagging children tried out the high jump trampolines. We were last to leave Lalandia Plaza at 10.35pm. I am still unsure whether that is a reflection of an early-to-bed, early-to-rise Northern European culture or simply reflecting the fact that Lalandia is first and foremost a family resort. Either way, we set off early ourselves on day 2, heading for Givskud Zoo, a nearby Safari Park, which is the second largest in Denmark. If you stay at Legoland Hotel or Lalandia resort, you can pay an upgrade fee for a pass to cover all three destinations on your holiday, and I would recommend it. Our tour guide AK really made the trip worthwhile – having a wealth of knowledge about all the animals at the Zoo, as well as knowing their personal histories, so that I came away feeling that I knew the animals as different characters. In the

Factfile

bmi regional (www.bmiregional.com) flies six times a week from Birmingham to Billund from £59 per person one way including 30-minute check-in, complimentary in-flight refreshments and bar service and 20kg checked baggage. The route launched on 3 June 2013. Taxi from Billund airport to Legoland and Lalandia resort costs less than £10

Accommodation costs: At Lalandia

expect to pay between £175 per night to £218 per night for a self catering chalet for 4

24 Issue 16

people; between £200 and £250 per night for a chalet for 6; or £237 - £288 for 8. Legoland Hotel offers overnight accommodation including breakfast and 2 day admission to Legoland from £245. www.legoland.dk

Attraction costs: A one day family pass to Legoland Billund costs approx £100 – or a 2 day pass around £180. Day entry to Lalandia Aquadome costs £24 (adults) and £15 (children aged 3-11), under 3s free: www.lalandia.dk. Entrance to Givskud Zoo costs £22 (adults) and £15 (children aged 3-11 years),under 3s free – price includes admission and Safari Bus tour: www.givskudzoo.dk

Travel

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afternoon we were back at the Aquadome – with the children hurtling down slides – including the total tornado, playing water basket ball, walking on water, and loving it! Our second night was spent at the four-star Legoland Resort Hotel which has some lego-themed pirate, princess and adventure rooms. We stayed in a superior family room which has more space and a view over the Legoland park. The hotel is designed to engage children with its lego play-rooms, a wii room with consoles, and games room but balances that with a luxurious feel for parents. In the morning guests have direct access to the park from the hotel, and we made use of this on our final morning catching up on rides we had missed on our first day there, and re-visiting the favourites. By 2pm we were heading back to the airport to catch our return flight to Birmingham and we had landed by 4pm British time – just in time to get home, get sorted, and get ready for work on Monday. But, what a fantastic long-weekend for children … and for any parents who are lucky enough to go along for the ride!

Resort passes: If you stay at Lalandia or Legoland Hotel inquire about additional resort passes (costing between £40 - £65 per person) which offer access to all 3 attractions for the duration of your stay.

Longer Holidays Factor in car rental if you are considering this as a main family holiday and allow approx £30 per day for a budget car. You won’t need a car every day, but most adults will want to get out of the resort to see more of Denmark. Billund is about an hour’s drive from the old town of Aarhus; and just under three hours from Copenhagen, which would warrant at least an overnight stay.

BIG BRUM BUZ

CEVEARYTWECH THE BUS EKEND END APRIL TO END SEP T

BUS STOP Corner of Colmore Row and Waterloo Street

TIMES

10.30; 12.30; 2.30

SPECIAL FAMILY TICKET: £20 for 2 adults and 3 children 15 and under BIRMINGHAM TOURS Call 0121 427 2555 www.birmingham-tours.co.uk

Issue 16 25

Botanical Gardens

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Photo-shoot at Birmingh

e hope you like our front cover picture of 3-year-old Sophia Whelan taken during the Front Cover Star photoshoot at the Botanical Gardens in Edgbaston. The award-winning childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s photographer, Abby Wilkes, took awesome photographs of all the children who took part and choosing a front cover was so very, very difficult when we have so many wonderful shots. So here we want to show you some more and to celebrate all our wonderful models. We want to say a big thank you to the Botanical Gardens for hosting the event and to all the families who put forward their children for the photo-shoot. As ever a lot more of you wanted to take part than we had spaces available, but please try again next

26â&#x20AC;&#x201A; Issue 16

Botanical Gardens

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ham’s Botanical Gardens year. We love to give your children the chance to feature in Families magazine! The Botanical gardens offered a stunning backdrop to our photographs with cherry trees and magnolia in full bloom – and given the very late spring, even the daffodils were out though May was on the horizon. True to form with our British weather we had four seasons in the space of the day – but come rain or shine, the children were all fantastic.

THE

Visit Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens this summer for a great day out. Pick up a family trail and explore; play in the children’s play area, see the Koi carp, spot the exotic butterflies, and visit the aviary. www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

BIRMINGHAM

BOTANICAL GTURNAOVER R DA NEW E NLEAFS Teddy Bears’ Picnic kids go free 28/8

Butterflies Live Music Theatre Gardens Glasshouses Birds Playground Cafe Gallery Shop New Family Explorer Backpacks

0121 454 1860 www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

10% off with ad FBS213 Issue 16

What’s On

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk conditions why people were so smelly. Venue: Avoncroft Museum, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR Date: July 13 and 14 Time:10.30am-5pm Tickets: Adult £7.70; child £4.00; Family £19.80. (See voucher on page 7 for Families readers free child space.)

Out & About

The Pirates! In an adventure with Scientists

B93 0DQ and Packwood House, Lapworth, B94 6 AT Date: Daily in school summer holidays Time: 11am-4pm

The Science Museum has linked up with award-winning Aardman Animations to host this exhibition showing sets and puppets from the film. Become part of the pirate crew; dress up in pirate finery; become a part of the movie with bluescreen technology. Date: From May 23 Venue: Think Tank, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG

Traditional village fete on the lawns at Coughton Court with stalls, games and competitions, raising funds for local good causes. Venue: Coughton Court, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5JA Date: July 13 Time: 11am-4pm

Dance Live Festival

Wild West Festival

Take a leisurely steam train ride on the Shakespeare Express from Birmingham to Stratford on Avon for sight-seeing or shopping, and return again in old-fashioned style. Venue: Catch the Shakespeare Express at Birmingham Snow Hill, Moor Street, Tyseley or Henley. Date: Sunday, July 7 – and all Sundays until Sept 8. Cost: Adult £20 and child £12.50 prebooked, or £25 and £15 on the day. To Book: call 0121 708 4960

See the Caverns

See the limestone mines and caverns along the full length of Dudley canals in this 2 hour through tunnel canal trip. Lifelike reconstruction with mannequins in Hurst Cavern showing how the miners worked. Spectacular music and light show in the Singing Cavern. Venue: Dudley Canals, A4123 Birmingham New Road, Dudley, DY1 4SB Date: July 7 and August 3 Cost: Adult £11.80; Child £10.80. Under 3 free. To Book: Booking required. Call 0121 557 6265. Also: shorter daily canal trips leaving every half hour. Pre-booking not needed.

Trampolining and Tumbling British Championships Venue: LG Arena Date: July 6 and 7

Fifty things to do before the age of 11 ¾ Visit Baddesley Clinton, Packwood House for family fun daily through the school holidays. Nature trails, pond dipping, geocaching, climbing trees, exploring – how many of the fifty things list can you tick off? Venue: Baddesley Clinton, Rising Lane,

28 Issue 16

Family Forest School

Make dens, climb trees, learn how to make knots, build fires to cook and have fun as a family Venue: Masefield Community Centre, Lindsey Avenue, Northfiled B31 2DT Dates: July 20 and 24 (2-4pm); July 25 and 27 (10am-12pm); Aug 21 and 31 (2-4pm); Aug 22 and 29 (10am-12pm) Cost: £3 per child. Booking essential. Call Annie on 0121 448 0119 To celebrate its first birthday, Academic Excellence in Edgbaston is hosting a free drop-in family fun day, with bucking bronco, bouncy castle, fun and games Venue: 9 George Road, Edgbaston, B15 1NP Date: July 20 Time: 12-3pm

A Squash and a Squeeze – Sharing Stories with Julia Donaldson

Venue: Carnival at Victoria Common, off Church Road Date: July 6

Catch the Express

Venue: Mell Square Date: July 13 and 14

Free Family Fun Day, Edgbaston

Northfield Carnival

Hockley Heath Village Fete

Starts at 10am with children’s Princess and Pirates show with prize for best dressed. Main show from 11am. Fun stalls with everthing from crafts to throwing sponges, and pet show. Date: July 7 Venue: Hockley Heath Recreation Ground, Warwick Road Time: From 10am Entry Free. Pirates and Princess show £1.

Shirley Carnival

Action packed day for all the family. Stalls, refreshments and entertainment. All proceeds to charity. Date: July 13 Venue: Shirley Park, B90 3AL Time: 12.30-4.30pm

Moseley Festival and Street Fair Stalls, craft and street festival in the Centre of Moseley with entertainment during the day on village green Venue: Moseley Centre and Village Green Date: July 13 Time: 9.30am-4.30pm

Chocolate, Custard, Cars and Whistles

Get to know the ‘City of Thousand Trades’ on the open-topped Big Brum Buz. Venue: Meeting point: corner of Colmore Road, Waterloo Road, Victoria Square Date: Every weekend Sat and Sun until September (except first Sunday of the month when it operates as Big Brum Museum Heritage Bus) Tickets: Adults: £12; Brummie residents £8; children £5 and family of five £20

Gruesome History

Discover some foul facts and the most gruesome bits of history. Find out how ailments and injuries were treated in the sixteenth century. Learn about living

Fifty things to do summer trail

Summer adventure trail at Clent Hills with a different route each week and a chance to tick off some of the fifty things every child should to do before aged 11 ¾ Venue: Clent Hills, Start trail from Nimmings Wood Car Park Date: Wednesdays, Jul 31, Aug 7, 14, 21 and 28 Time: 10am-3pm Tickets: Child £1. No booking needed.

Coughton Court Summer Fete

Tickets have been selling fast for In the Night Garden Live at the show dome at Cannon Hill Park (Jul 25-Aug 8), so book early if you would like to take your little ones to see Iggle Piggle and friends. There is a discount for families’ readers. Quote Family74 when booking. www.nightgardenlive.com or call 0333 300 0016

Bromsgrove, B60 4JR Date: July 30-Aug 1 To Book: 01527 831363 Pre-booking strongly advised as this is a popular event. (See voucher on page 7 for Families free child place)

Julia Donaldson’s modern children’s classics to life. Room on the Broom, A Squash and a Squeeze, The Gruffalo, to name a few. Share stories. Follow in Toddle Waddle’s footsteps, climb into the cave with Cave Baby, and meet the Gruffalo. Sing-a-long to her songs on Julia’s Jukebox or peform a play on stage. Venue: The Gas Hall, B’ham Museum and Art Gallery, Chamberlain Square, B3 3DH Date: July 20 – Nov 3 Tickets: Adult £6.50; Child £5.50 and family of 4 £20

Music in the Park – Pop Goes Solihull

Young, talented and local rock and pop bands strut their stuff on stage at Tudor Grange Park. Free event for families. Facepainting, catering. Venue: Tudor Grange Park, B91 3LU Date: July 20 Time: 2-5pm

Can you Dig it?

A fun, family-friendly dig, handling real archaeological finds with experts at the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum. Drop in event. No booking required and suitable for all ages. Children must be accompanied. Venue: Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, Jordan Well, Coventry CV1 5QP Date: July 24 and 25 Time: 10am-1pm and 2-4pm

Weoley Castle

Step back in time to see Weoley Castle in its heyday. Witness Lord Dudley dispensing justice in the great hall; meet cooks, herbal good wives, brewers and tinkers Venue: Weoley Castle, Alwood Road, Birmingham, B29 Date: July 28 Time: 1-4pm FREE EVENT

Den Building

Learn how to make a den. Venue: Avoncroft Museum, Stoke Heath,

Cowboy fancy dress. Tresaure Trail to find the most wanted villain, tales of how the West was won, children’s rides, entertainment, craft activities Venue: Shirley Park, B90 3AL Date: Wed, July 31 Time: 11am-3pm

Pen Museum – Family Writing Workshop

A family workshop for parents and children aged 8-14. Investigate fun ways of writing collaboratively. No writing experience needed, Venue: Pen Museum, 60 Frederick Street, Hockley Date: July 31 Time: 10.30am-12.30pm Tickets sold in pairs. £15 for adult and child. To book call Anna on 0121 245 4455

Robert Wilkinson Fun Fair

All the fun of the fair with thrills, spills and rides for all ages. £1 per person admission and £1 rides. Venue: Meriden Park, B37 5SH Date: Thurs, Aug 1 – Sun, Aug 4. Time: weekdays 4pm-8.30pm and weekends 1-8.30pm

Brum at War

Visit Back to Backs in Birmingham to relive the war years with re-enactors and stories of Brummies during the war, plus the rare chance to visit a real air raid shelter in the cellar. BOOKING ESSENTIAL. Venue: Birmingham Back to Backs, 53-63 Hurst Street and 5-54 Inge Street, B5 4TE Date: Aug 2-4 Time: 10.15am-3.45pm To Book: 0121 666 7671

August Antics

Ranger-led family activities at Sutton Park Venue: Sutton Park – meet at visitor centre, Park Road, Sutton Coldfield B74 2YT Dates: Aug 2, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26 and 30 Time: 11am-1pm Booking essential via www.birmingham. gov.uk/ranger-events

Dragon Slayer school, Gnome week and Pirate Adventures

Fun family activities every Tuesday to Thurs in August at Avoncroft Museum. Dragon Slayer (Aug 6-8); Gnome Week (Aug 13-15); Pirate Adventure (Aug 20-22); Mud, Sticks and Bricks building activity days (Aug 27 29) Venue: Avoncroft Museum, Stoke Heath, B60 4 JR Time: 10.30am-5pm Tickets: Adults £7.70; children £4.00; Family £19.80. (See voucher on page 7 for Families readers free child place.)

Pirates and Princesses Festival

Best fancy dress wins a prize. Take part in a trail to find buried treasure. Themed crafts, entertainment, face paining, puppets, and more. £1 per person and small charge for some attractions. Venue: Meriden Park, B 37 5SH Date: Wed, Aug 7 Time: 11am-3pm

What’s Parenting On

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Discover Forgotten Metro-Land

London Transport Museum and Buckinghamshire Railway Centre present family days out in early August. Set in the beautiful Vale of Aylesbury, the special open days will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the London Underground and a forgotten part of what was once known as Metroland. Family fun activities on Sat and Sun, August 3 and 4 and Wednesday, August 7, include rides in vintage carriages pulled by real steam trains, miniature railway rides, The Runaway Train storytelling sessions and make-and-take craft workshops. Children can also climb on board the red travelling Night Mail carriage which was used by the Post Office to sort and deliver post, and explore the old Quainton Road station and Museum.

Summer Fun at Mell Square

Family fun with rides and entertainment. Venue: Mell Square, Solihull Date: Thu, Aug 8, 15, 22 and 29 Time: 11am-3pm

The Great Train Robbery! On August 10 and 11 Buckinghamshire Railway’s travelling Post Office coaches will be en fete to mark the anniversary of the Great Train Robbery which happened locally. Children can try their hand at sorting mail against the clock and Postman Pat and Jess the Cat will be making appearances throughout the day. Family tickets, early-bird discount, and group discounts available. Free car parking and free vintage bus service from Aylesbury Vale Parkway station on 3 and 4 August. Booking: www.ltmuseum.co.uk or phone 0207 565 7298.

Summer fun at Edgbaston Reservoir

Ranger-led summer fun for children Venue: Edgbaston Reservoir, 115 Reservoir Road, Edgbaston

Date: Aug 8, 15, 22 and 29 Time: all day Book a place online at www.birmingham. gov.uk/ranger-events

Gruffalo in the Park

Gruffalo-themed activities for ages 0-5, organised by Keystone children’s centre Venue: Bentley Heath Park Date: Aug 9 Time:11am-3pm

a summer of free family fun Join us for a creative summer of fun, an inspiring journey to the magical world of the Alice in Wonderland stories and illustrations. With THREE exhibitions and FOUR full weeks of family activities from Mad Hatter hats, to Queen’s crowns and tea party bunting there will be plenty to stretch your imagination and keep your little Herbots busy!

Creative Family Play Space Through the Rabbit Hole FREE

Summer Holiday Family Workshops Through The Rabbit Hole: FREE

22 June – 8 September

29 June – 30 August

Exhibition Looking in Wonderland FREE

Exhibition Quentin Blake: As Large As Life FREE

22 June – 8 September

27 July – 3 November For full event and exhibition details and FREE downloadable resources go to our NEW website www.theherbert.org

summer! ...Tastic

Issue 16 29

Parenting What’s On Through the Rabbit Hole

Herbert Art Gallery are running a series of Alice in Wonderland inspired family activities throughout the summer holidays, linked to their Looking in Wonderland exhibition. Children can follow the white rabbits paw through the gallery to the Rabbit Hole, an interactive play area with family workshops from making mad hatter hats, to queen’s crowns and royal bunting. Venue: Herbert Art Gallery, Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP Date: July 29-Aug 30

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk Sporting Spectacular

A sporty-theme to this fun festival. Take part in races and activities. With prizes for winners and races for mums and dads. A fun family event with lots of exercise. Themed craft activities and other attractions. Venue: Olton Jubilee Park, B92 7QR Date: Wed, Aug 28 Time: 11am-3pm

Teddy Bear’s Picnic

If you go down to the woods today, you are in for a big surprise … it’s full of teddy bears. Join in the family fun and picnic on the lawn with your teddy. Face painting, teddy trail and teddy crafts, a special visit from Biddedly the Clown, and mobile zoo. Children under 16 FREE. Venue: Botanical Gardens, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham Date: August 28 Time: 12pm-3pm FREE for children.

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

Out & About

Simply Messing About with Boats

Join Bournville Model Boat Club at Sarehole Mill pond and see a variety of model boats in action, RNLI vessels and more. Visitors are invited to have a go at sailing one of the club’s model boats. Venue: Sarehole Mill, Colebank Road, B13 0BD Date: Aug 11 Time: 12-4pm FREE EVENT.

Fairground Fun

creatures great and small. Take a trip to the Zoo on a treasure trail and listen to stories of furry friends. Crafts and entertainment. Venue: Malvern Park, B91 3DL Date: Wed, Aug 21 Time: 11am-3pm. FREE EVENT

Musical Picnic – Peacock-Angell Band

A free session for children and families with colourful, feel good music song and dance Venue: Symphony Hall Café Bar, Date: Sat, Aug 24 Time: 10.30am FREE EVENT

Roll up, roll up for fairground fun. Traditional funfair with entertainment, children’s rides, and stalls. Treasure trail, themed craft. Venue: Lavender Hall Park, CV7 7BN Date: Wed, Aug 14 Time 11am-3pm

Music in the Park – Brilliant Bass

Half Price Family Night

Victorian Festival

Black Country Living Museum are holding a half price family night with entertainment, street performances, circus skills games, giant bubble blowing amd more Venue: Black Country Living Museum, Tipton Road, Dudley Date: August 17 Time: 6.30-10pm Tickets: pre purchase only. Tel: 0121 557 9643 or book online.

Animal Crackers

Come along as your favourite animal for your chance to win a prize. Meet all

A rousing performance from a local brass band. Bring along a picnic, sit back and enjoy the show Venue: Knowle Park, B93 9HT Date: Sun, Aug 25 Time: 2-4.15pm Get a feel for Victorial life at this 2 day festival. Venue: Avoncroft Museum, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR Date: Aug 25 and 26 Time: 10.30am-5pm Tickets: Adult £7.70; child £4 and family £19.80. (See voucher on page 7 for free child place)

Shirley Summer Fun

Punch and Judy show, tombola, crafts, races, stalls and fun activities for families Venue: Shirley Park, Date: Tues, Aug 27 Time: 11am-3pm

Bring a picnic to and enjoy a Mad Hatter’s Tea at the Herbert in Coventry as they celebrate their Looking in Wonderland exhibition. Alice-inspired art activities, costumed characters, and a fun trail. Fancy dress welcomed. Venue: Herbert Art Gallery, Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP Date: Aug 30 Time: 11.30am-1pm and 1.30pm-3.00pm Booking required. Call 024 7629 4774.

Knight School

Have you got what it takes to be a knight? Learn the art of combat, swordplay and codes of chivalry. Family fun day. Venue: Blakesley Hall, Blakesley Road, Yardley, B25 8RN Date: Aug 31 FREE EVENT. Children free entry to hall. Adults £4.

Theatre & Shows Romeo and Juliet

Shakespeare classic performed against the backdrop of a tudor moated manor Venue: Baddesley Clinton, Rising Lane, Baddesley Date: July 19 Time: 7.30-10.30pm. Gates open 6.30pm Tickets: £15 adult; £8 child and £38 family of 5. Must be booked in advance. Call 01564 783294.

La Tempesta

Scarabeus Aerial Theatre and Little Angels Theatre present an outdoor show. Their house has been swept away by a flood, and having collected a few treasured possessions and they are gliding towards a

new beginning. Venue: Outdoor Arena, MAC, Cannon Hill Park, B12 9QH Date: July 14 Time: 11am and 2.30pm Age: 3-6 Tickets: £8 To Book: 0121 446 3232

Carousel

Venue: New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham Date: July 16-20 Time: eve at 7.30pm, and Sat matinee at 2.30pm Tickets: £12.90-£18.90 To Book: 0844 871 7626

Rhianna

Venue: LG Arena Date: July 18

Alice – An Extraordinary Adventure

Open Air production of Alice – a fast-paced and energetic show for families. Hog-roast and bar. Venue: Moor Hall Hotel and Spa Date: July 24 Time: Gates open 5.30pm and performance starts 6.30pm Tickets: Adults: £14, child £8 and family £38 To book: www.hearbreakproductions.co.uk or enquire at hotel reception

Alice – An Extraordinary Adventure

Join a special tea party with a host of quirky characters. A fast paced and energetic show for families. Venue: Brueton Park, Solihull Date: Thu, July 25 Time: 7pm Tickets: £7 and £6 child in advance To Book: 0121 704 6962 First 336 tickets booked guaranteed place in auditorium in extreme weather. Bring blankets, and picnic in the park.

In the Night Garden Live

Meet Iggle Piggle and Upsy Daisy in this an enchanting live version of In the Night Garden Venue: Showdome, Cannon Hill Park, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B12 9QH Date: July 25-Aug 8 Times: 10am; 12pm, 2pm and 4pm Tickets: To Book call 0333 300 0016 or log on to www.NightGardenLive.com check advert on page 31 for discount code for Families readers.

Alice – An Extraordinary Adventure

Heartbreak Productions’ family show based on Alice in Wonderland and Alice Through the Looking Glass. Bring tables, a chair, a picnic and enjoy the National Trust setting. Venue: Packwood House, Lapworth Lane, Solihull Date: July 26 Time: 7.30pm Cost: Child £8; Adult £15. Family of 5 £38. Must be booked in advance. Call 01564 782024 or 0844 249 1895.

The Lion King

Musical version of Disney’s story Venue: Hippodrome, Hurst Street, Birmingham, B5 4TB Date: to Sept 28 Age: recommended for 6 and over. Children under 3 not permitted in auditorium. Time: Eve at 7.30pm and Sat and Sun matinee at 2.30pn Tickets: £25-£60

30 Issue 16

What’s Parenting On

www.familiesbirmingham.co.uk Dora the Explorer Live

On Tour Now, Don’t Miss It!

Venue: New Alexandra Theatre, Station Street, B5 4DS Date: July 5-7 Time: Fri at 4pm; Sat at 10am, 1 and 4pm and Sun at 10am and 1pm Tickets: £18.90 and £20.90 To Book: www.nickjnr.co.uk/doralive

Pif Paf – something to hold onto Open air aerial theatre – a fast-paced tale spun on a new aerial structure. Storms are on the horizon as 3 people meet – one from our world and two from far away.. Venue: MAC, Cannon Hill Park Date: July 28 Time: 11am; 1 and 3pm FREE

Room on a Broom

The Flying Machine

An interactive theatre performance for children who become the crew and set off on a wonderous adventure on a flying machine! Venue: MAC, Cannon Hill Park Date: Aug 25 Time: 11am, 12, 2 and 3pm Tickets: £7 To Book: 0121 446 3232

Open Air Cinema – Les Miserables (12A)

Bring a deckchair and a picnic and watch Les Mis this bank holiday outdoors this bank holiday weekend Venue: Avoncroft Museum, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B 604JR Date: Aug 25 For more information or to book: 01527 831363

Join the witch and her cat as they set out on a spellbinding adventure to find her bow and wand. Adapted from Julia Donaldson book.

Venue: Town Hall, Victoria Square B3 3DQ Date: Aug 6-11 Times: Tuesday, Aug 6 at 1.30pm and 4pm, all other dates: 11am and 1.30pm Tickets: £11.50 To Book: 0121 780 4949

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BOOK NOW, GET

£5 OFF*

Use Coupon:

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FOR £5 OFF ORDERS OVER £50 AND 5% OFF ORDERS UNDER £50 No booking fee online

NightGardenLive.com or call 0333 300 0016

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CBeebies double act. Meet characters Incy, Humpty, the Grand Old Duke of York, and Bo Beep live on stage. Venue: Solihull Arts Complex, Homer Road, B91 3RG Date: Sat, July 27 Time: 11am and 2pm Tickets: £12 (Limited availability at time of going to press). To Book: 0121 704 6962

Chris and Pui Roadshow

In the Night Garden™ & © Ragdoll Worldwide Limited 2007. * Subject to availability, terms and conditions apply, see NightGardenLive.com.

Issue 16 31

Holiday Fun Club From: July 29 – Aug 30

Catch up or get ahead this summer For ages 4-14

Morning, afternoon y and full da s n sessio nd Wrap-arou re a c child

Improve School gra des, make new friends, have fun, 1 hour of work: 2 ho urs of play English, m aths, scie nce, languages , multispo rts, football, c ookery, da n ce, art, design , fashion, zumba Weekly ex cursion

After-school Care

Refurbished Georgian building with excellent facilities. Relax after school in our café (hot food and snacks) Chill out in our games room Have fun in dance, music, and language clubs Get ahead in our homework club

Places now available at Edgbaston Pick-up from schools within a 3 mile radius

Academic Tuition Register now for our academic tuition and ask if you are eligible for up to 80 per cent off fees. Maths, English, Sciences, Languages. 11+ Independent school exams GCSEs, IGCSEs, A Level Tuition £10 - £15 an hour. Tuition at our Edgbaston Centre and at outreach centres in Quinton, Erdington, Solihull and Chelmsley Wood.

Childcare vouchers accepted. Tuition, After-school Care, Holiday Fun Club.

registered

9 George Road, Edgbaston, B15 1NP

Issue 16

For all enquiries call: 0121 454 2858