Recently launched by Beaconsfield Mum, Sammy Davies, The Ouch Pouch is the perfect children’s first aid kit for the parent on the go. It has everything you might need in case of an accident, all contained in a water-resistant pouch!
Ouch Pouches are handmade in Buckinghamshire by mums, for mums! The Ouch Pouch is designed to take the stress out of small medical emergencies, allowing you to make magical memories with peace of mind. They’re also ideal gifts for caregivers that may be looking after your children such as a trusted child-minder or Grandparents. Find out more at: �� ouch-pouch.co.uk
We have three Ouch Pouches to give away to lucky readers!
To see entry details, click here by 3rd June 2025. You can also subscribe to our new monthly email newsletter — be the fi rst to hear about new events and competitions (click here). You can fi nd out the winners of our recent competitions by clicking here.
Children’s reading enjoyment hits 20-year low
Children’s reading enjoyment has fallen to its lowest level in almost two decades, with just one in three young people saying that they enjoy reading in their free time, according to a new survey.
Only 34.6% of eight to 18-year-olds surveyed by the National Literacy Trust (NLT) said that they enjoy reading in their spare time. This is the lowest level recorded by the charity since it began surveying children about their reading habits 19 years ago, representing an 8.8 percentage point drop since last year.
It is also part of a broader downward trend since 2016, when almost two in three children said that they enjoyed reading. The charity called on the government to form a reading taskforce and action plan to address because it has got the scale of national crisis and needs to be all our responsibilities to address.
More info at: �� literacytrust.org
Record fines issued to parents taking holidays
A record 443,000 fines were issued to parents in England for unauthorised term-time holidays during the past school year, reflecting a 53% surge compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to The Guardian. This increase follows a shift in attitudes toward school attendance, with some parents prioritising family time over the law.
Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson has reaffi rmed the importance of consistent attendance, linking termtime absences to disruptions in classroom learning. A fine increase from £60 to £80 per parent has been announced as part of the effort to curb absences. However, critics argue fines are ineffective, with Paul Whiteman of the NAHT pointing to the high cost of trips during school breaks as a key issue.
Some local councils enforce fi nes aggressively, while others opt not to impose penalties. Advocates suggest addressing financial pressures to effectively tackle the problem.
Join Walk to School Week
A generation ago, seventy percent of us walked to school – now it’s less than half. So Walk to School Week was started to encourage more kids to get out of the car and walk to school.
Walk to School Week is held from 19th to 23rd May and is organised by the UK charity ‘Living Streets’ to celebrate the health and wellbeing benefi ts of walking.
Families will be encouraged to walk, cycle, scoot or Park and Stride to see the big differences that can come from small steps - from healthier and happier children who arrive refreshed, fi t and ready to learnto less congestion and fewer cars outside the school gates.
Download the free Family Walk to School Kit. Visit �� livingstreets.org.uk/walk-to-school
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Call: 01494 689098 or email: advertise@familieschiltern.co.uk
This Foster Care Fortnight (12th – 25th May), if you’ve been considering fostering, there’s never been a better time to take the fi rst steps.
Buckinghamshire Council’s ‘Foster with Bucks’ service is holding a free in-person information event in Aylesbury on Wednesday 21st May and will be popping up across the county this summer which will be a great opportunity to ask any questions and chat with the fostering community.
Over 500 children in Buckinghamshire need safe and loving homes where they can build strong connections and thrive. Buckinghamshire Foster with Bucks are looking for more everyday people to join the local fostering community.
Foster carers are supported every step of the way with 24/7 support, competitive pay, exceptional training and exclusive perks and benefi ts to help their foster families thrive and make memories that last a lifetime.
Visit �� buckinghamshire.gov.uk/fostering to get in touch, or fi nd out more.
Trending children’s party themes
By Jodie Herron
Planning a memorable birthday party for your child is extra special when you alight upon a theme that resonates with their interests and sparks joy. Looking for inspiration? Here are eight trending party themes for children ages 5 to 13, each designed to create an unforgettable experience.
BLUEY ADVENTURE PARTY
Inspired by the hit Australian TV show, fill your Bluey-themed party with vibrant decorations, engaging games, piñatas, blue and orange balloons, banners, cardboard cutouts and character-inspired activities. Set up a backyard obstacle course or scavenger hunt inspired by the show’s adventures, host a ‘keepy uppy’ balloon challenge and provide themed party bags for a true Bluey experience!
HARRY POTTER WIZARDING WORLD
Bring the magic of Hogwarts to life with house banners and themed table settings. Sort young wizards into houses with a Sorting Hat ceremony, then let them mix bubbling potions with colourful drinks. Organise broomstick races for a Quidditch match, set up a wand-making craft station and lay on wizard-themed treats like chocolate frogs for a spellbinding experience.
DINOSAUR EXPEDITION
A dinosaur-themed party would be perfect for young palaeontologists! Transform your home into a prehistoric jungle with lush greenery, dinosaur cutouts and dino footprints leading the way. Set up a ‘dino dig’ sandpit for fossil excavations, organise a thrilling dino egg hunt and plan adventurous games like a T-Rex relay race. Complete the experience with dinosaurthemed treats, tableware and roaringly good party bags!
JUNGLE SAFARI ADVENTURE
Create an adventurous jungle atmosphere with vibrant hanging vines, inflatable animals and tropical leaves. Offer animal face painting and safari hunts to excite young explorers. Provide explorer hats, binoculars and maps for a scavenger hunt featuring hidden animal figures. Serve jungle-themed snacks such as ‘monkey bananas,’ ‘lion cupcakes’ for a wild experience little ones will love!
COQUETTE AESTHETIC SOIRÉE
Create a dreamy Coquettethemed birthday party with soft pastel decor, lace accents and vintage charm. Set up an elegant tea party with paper tea cups, floral tablecloths and tiered trays of sandwiches. Offer a DIY flower crown station, necklace crafting and dainty fan decorating. Just add fairy lights, classical music and ribbons for a whimsical, refined celebration!
HOLLYWOOD RED CARPET EVENT
Roll out the red carpet for a dazzling, glitzy Hollywood-themed birthday party. Decorate with gold stars, movie reels and spotlights. Encourage guests to dress as their favourite movie characters and set up a photo booth with fun props like sunglasses and feather boas. Host Best Dancer, Best Actor or Best Costume awards ceremonies, complete with mini
BARBIE DREAMHOUSE CELEBRATION
Throw the ultimate Barbie party by transforming your home or venue with pink décor, shimmering backdrops and chic costumes! Set up dress-up stations with tiaras, tutus and glam accessories. Kids can enjoy DIY jewellery making, a mini runway show and Barbie-themed games. Complete the celebration with a stunning Barbie cake, themed tableware and stylish party favours!
GAMING AND MINECRAFT MANIA
Throw the ultimate gamingthemed party for young gaming enthusiasts, with decorations inspired by popular games like Minecraft, Super Mario or Fortnite. Think pixelated banners, gaming posters and themed tableware. Set up gaming stations, host building challenges and organise a treasure hunt with game-related clues. Kids can craft their own pixel art, enjoy gaming-inspired face painting and compete in mini-tournaments. Complete the celebration with a game controller cake and party favours like stickers, keychains and gaming-themed treats!
Each of these themes offers unique opportunities to create a magical and memorable birthday celebration tailored to your child’s interests. For a comprehensive selection of party supplies and decorations to bring these themes to life, explore the full range of themes at �� partyrama.co.uk
Days Out Reviews
Discover Bucks Museum
We had a great family day out here during the half term holidays. Both boys enjoyed their Animal Science Workshop and the delights of the Museum itself. But it was the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery at the site, which really captivated them- enough so that the kids spent a good chunk of the morning exploring there and after lunch, they went straight back in for a second go around.
There are two levels to the Gallery with my kids taking trips between each. They enjoyed the Great Glass Elevator, although my youngest was not pleased that it didn’t launch into space, which was hilarious and cute. They loved the optical illusions, mirrors and shadow room. Wonka’s TV screen was a great hit as we all designed our own background art to frame ourselves against. The library was very relaxing, with the kids perusing books before hurrying back to the giant peach microscopes, creepy crawlies and super science effects.
We explored artefacts from Trunchballs and the boys crawled through Mr Fox’s tunnel to investigate the various nooks, cranny’s, holes and items on display. The tunnel was a huge hit and a great place for them to hide when we told them it was closing and time to leave!
Notes: Check the Museum’s website for opening times and tickets, it’s worth giving yourself a good chunk of time in the Gallery. Sat Nav: Aylesbury, HP20 2QP.
Natural History Museum
We spent a lovely Sunday at the Natural History Museum in London, enjoying a family day out. The day was beautiful and made the outside of the Museum even more stunning, with Dinosaur skeletons and bones on display for the kids to stare at and, in some cases, touch! We also ate our picnic lunch in their new garden, soaking up the sun and relaxed ambience.
The dinosaurs were, as expected, a huge hit! With my youngest a huge dino fan, he squealed as he raced from Iguanodon to Stegosaurus. The animatronic T. Rex was a fabulous experience for him, with his brother convincing him to ‘duck down’ and hide before he was eaten, (he half believed it)! We opted for green screen dino photos as a souvenir. The blue whale was as awe inspiring as I remember it back when I was young.
As usual, you never have enough time there and we plan to come back soon and see the creepy crawlies and Darwin Centre, alongside a visit to the Science Museum too.
Notes: To avoid queuing book FREE timed tickets online. Location: London, SW7 5BD. The Museum is easily accessible via the tunnel from South Kensington Station.
By Claire Lockie Williams
Air Raid Shelter Café
This was such a lovely treat for my Mum’s birthday and a very nostalgic and welcome trip down memory road for her and my aunt. There were things from their childhood and from their mother’s, which sparked many an interesting conversation- from little things like the bowls, clocks and posters, to the bigger ones like the midwife bike and Air Raid Shelter itself.
The Museum is chock full of interesting memorabilia and you can see what a labour of love it is and the passion those working there have for it! The music was relaxing but lively and each room held hidden treasures. There were tea rooms, home rooms, the shelter and even train carriage tables. It’s hard to explain how much is there as there are many treasures, big and so subtle. If this era is of interest you can get a great appreciation of it here. The cakes were lush too and very decently priced.
My children would love the train carriage tables so we are planning on coming back soon to appreciate it while we can as, sadly, this wonderful place is closing for good around the end of June, so I would urge people who want to visit to do so while they can.
Notes: Weekdays appear quieter. Tables can be reserved on busier weekends.
Sat Nav: High Wycombe, HP13 5FX.
Days Out J u n i o r R e p o r t e r s
Alpaca and Unicorn Adventures
By Lilly Grice
I visited Alpaca and Unicorn Adventures at Park Hill Farm near Tring and was introduced to Freddie. His actual name was King Fredrick 1st and he was not a human - he was an alpaca! We went for a walk around an enormous field. It felt very exciting as I have never handled an alpaca before. Did you know it takes five months to train an alpaca to go on walks and that they can run up to thirty five miles per hour? Luckily, Freddie was happy to walk beside me. He was well-behaved, calm and very cute. On the walk, I learnt various facts. I found out that alpacas come in twenty two different colours. I also learnt that llamas are bigger than alpacas, which was something new to me because I thought it was the other way round! Our alpaca amble lasted about 45 minutes and when we got back to the pen, I fed Freddie nuts and oats out of a blue bowl.
At the end of our experience, we had a drink. Our table was right next to two white ponies. They turn into unicorns at midnight and make children’s wishes come true at their parties; their names were Mabel and Lacey.
Before we left, we looked at a hat that had been knitted from Freddie’s wool. It was really soft and cosy. It
Museum of the Home
By Maya Bordia
My trip to Museum of the Home in London was a unique opportunity to see what life was like from 16302049. Interactive, fascinating and free of charge, this museum is a must see!
Since we arrived at lunchtime, we decided to try Molly’s, the Museum cafe. Modern and inviting, this was the perfect place to start our trip. The menu offered a wide selection of food, including a kids’ menu.
When we were full from our meal, we ventured into the Museum. There are two main sections to explore: Home Galleries and Rooms Through Time. The Home Galleries allows you to look at the concept of ‘home’ over the past 400 years, including objects and ornaments people consider most precious and how the way people live has developed during this time period. I enjoyed looking at furniture catalogues from previous decades, as well as interactive features such as a Victorian style cosy corner, where you could change the lighting to create atmosphere.
Next, we journeyed into the Rooms Through Time. These rooms had been set up to tell the story of different residents living in London at various points in time. We were transported back to a parlour in 1745, a bedroom in 1956 and a high-rise flat in 2005. My favourite room was probably the 1978 living room. It was an explosion of colour with a retro television, drinks trolley, bright sofa and a floral rug. I was also intrigued to explore the 2049 futuristic flat. It was exciting to see what my first proper home could look like!
I had a memorable trip to Museum Of The Home and I learnt a lot about how people lived long agoand how they may live in the future!
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Hop into the Summer at Rush
Rush/Airhop Trampoline Park in High Wycombe offers highflying indoor fun with thrilling activities and experiences for all ages. Whether you’re celebrating or just bouncing for fun, there are sessions for everyone! Toddler Takeover (ages 1-6) provides a safe and exciting bouncing experience, while Family Takeover lets the whole family (ages 1+) jump together. Open Jump is perfect for ages 4+ plus Sunset Sessions on weekends, featuring disco lights and groovy tunes!
During term time you can hop and save with some fantastic offers: Midweek Parties – save 20% off midweek parties, making unforgettable celebrations more affordable while keeping all the perks of a Rush party! After School Offers - Say goodbye to boring afternoons! Pay for one hour and get Unlimited After School Jumps Mondays to Thursdays. Or bring a friend for After School Antics – 2 jumps plus 1 pizza to share!
Book your Rush adventure today! Book online for the best price and to secure your spot.
OUTSTANDING ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS FOR 4-14 YEAR OLDS DURING THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS!
Maltman's Green School, Gerrards CrossGodstowe School, High WycombeThornton College, Milton Keynes
Navigating the school admissions process can be a daunting task and it’s never too early to start. For selective independents, especially the most oversubscribed ones, you may need to register up to three years in advance to enter the highly competitive admissions process. The state system equally has rigid deadlines that must be followed to secure a place in your school of choice. Here is a lowdown on all the various processes and key deadlines to help you plan ahead.
For state primary schools, the admissions process begins in the autumn term of the year before your child is due to start school. Attend as many Open Days as you can in the year prior as few state schools offer personal tours. Book in early for these – places fill up fast!
The application deadline is usually the second week of January. Primary school admissions are co-ordinated by your local authority which specifies dates and procedures. After submitting your application through your local authority’s Common Application Form, you can expect to receive your school offer notification in mid-April.
Most secondary school applications are also handled via local authorities, with the application process for Year 7 entry running from 1 September to 31 October in the prior year.
Grammar schools may have additional requirements such as registering for entrance tests during the summer term of Year 5 (your primary or prep school will guide you through the process), with examinations from the September of Year 6. Offer notifications are sent at the beginning of March.
Independent options
As the name suggests, the main aim of prep schools is to prepare pupils for entry to private secondary schools at either 11 or 13. Traditionally, pre-preps take children from age 3 or 4 and prepare them to move to a prep school at age 7 or 8 (usually school year 3 or 4).
All-through schools are seamlessly linked through preprep, prep and senior with generally an easier transition between them, reducing the need for further application processes and assessments.
As always, London dances to its own beat. Whereas in more rural areas, it can be a case of putting little Harry or Harriet’s name down and setting up fee payments, competition for places in London’s top schools can be fierce at every stage, meaning the pressure is on.
Parents who wish to tutor their children ahead of 7+ and 11+ assessments should plan at least a year’s worth of tutoring in advance. Be aware the best tutors also have long waiting lists.
Most independent schools have entry points at 3+, 7+ and 11+. Nursery places are in high demand and usually offered on a first-come, first-served basis (London schools are the exception with some testing at age 3 and 4+) so it’s crucial you consider your options as soon as possible.
For all independent settings your first task is to register your child. The deadline is usually in the autumn of the year before you would like your child to start. There may be a registration fee and a deposit later on to secure your place. Make sure you understand what the agreement involves and under what circumstances you get your money back.
Plan lots of school visits in the year or two prior to when your child would be due to join the school. Open Day seasons are twice a year – usually September/October and February/ March and most independent schools offer smaller or even personal tours too.
Melanie Sanderson is Managing Editor of The Good Schools Guide (�� goodschoolsguide.co.uk), which reviews the key components of hundreds of schools, providing parents with in-depth, unbiased insights.
Key tips for parents
Do your homework and research all your school options as early as possible.
Attend as many Open Days as you can.
Bear in mind schools and nurseries can change quickly, so while it’s sensible to look at Ofsted reports (or ISI for independent schools), if it is some time since a school has been inspected, the grading may not be representative of where the school is now at.
Make a note of all application and examination deadlines and any other key dates.
Ask your child’s current setting for their advice on next steps – they should be very familiar with the process. Research tutor options and book in plenty of time. Prepare for financial outlay on registrations if applying to independent schools.
Good sources of information include your local authority website, �� gov.co.uk or �� goodschoolsguide.co.uk
Writing for a purpose
By Zuzu Jordan
For some children, writing feels like a chore rather than an enjoyable or meaningful activity. And when AI apps generate text instantly, there’s definitely a disincentive for the less inclined to develop writing skills. So how do we inspire a love of writing and encourage young minds to pick up a pen?
Firstly, children engage more when they understand the purpose of writing; whether to entertain, persuade, inform or recount. They also need a topic they care about. First-hand experiences help generate ideas. For example, if writing instructions for making a sandwich, they should make one first. Family outings also provide excellent material for writing, making it more personal and enjoyable.
Providing strong text examples helps children recognise the key features of different genres. Showing them formal letters teaches layout and language expectations for these, while a non-chronological report follows a different structure. Understanding the genre builds confidence and improves writing.
Discussing the target audience and purpose also increases motivation. For example, children writing to their headteacher to request longer break times will be driven to craft a strong argument! Knowing their writing could create real change makes the task more meaningful and engaging.
Receiving a response can definitely boost confidence and enthusiasm. Even Sir David Attenborough has replied to children’s handwritten letters! A child studying volcanoes could write to a volcanologist; one learning about environmental issues could contact WWF or Greenpeace.
Reading work aloud helps with editing and highlights areas for improvement. It also allows children to celebrate their efforts, particularly when writing to entertain. Positive feedback from peers and adults further builds confidence, making writing more enjoyable and rewarding.
Opportunities to showcase children’s writing can make it more meaningful for them so submitting work to school newsletters, local newspapers or writing competitions can deliver a sense of accomplishment. At home, sharing stories with family members or displaying work reinforces the importance of their efforts.
Fostering a love for writing requires purpose, engagement and encouragement. With the right support, children should be able to see writing as more than a school task and enjoy it as a tool for creativity, communication and self-expression.
Zuzu is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for 18 years and is director of Arnett International. For free resources and tips, find her on Instagram @edumate_uk
The true potential of play
By Mrs Nicola Nicoll, Headteacher at Heatherton
According to Dr Jacqueline Harding, an early childhood expert at Middlesex University, play directly impacts cognitive development in early years. As children under seven explore the sensory world around them, their brains ‘light up’ and form new connections between neurons more quickly. These neural pathways are essential for the development of cognitive skills such as creativity, problemsolving and emotional regulation – skills which cannot be ‘taught’ in a traditional manner.
The science is there, to develop those all-important neural pathways, play should be at the heart of all learning. Play helps children shape their social skills, explore their feelings, develop self-discipline and learn to express themselves. Particularly since the Covid-19 pandemic, this sort of social and emotional growth has never been more important for young children.
Structured play, particularly when telling stories, builds the foundations for high quality oracy. Playful storytelling fosters empathy and curiosity while inspiring new methods of communicating. Sign language, foreign languages and re-enactments can also be incorporated in storytelling to strengthen relationships and develop communication. The National Literary Trust highlights the importance of play in 'developing children’s communication and language skills, as well as supporting their learning and wellbeing.' It also emphasises the inclusive and accessible nature of play: 'all forms of communication support play, including facial expression, body language, signing, touch, eye contact and speech.' Playful interactions between children lay the foundations for diverse and successful interpersonal relationships in the future.
Not only does play develop confident communicators, but it builds resilience and independence in young children. A seemingly mundane moment of play can be a chance to nurture a growth mindset and build neural connections which encourage perseverance. Outdoor play, such as crossing stepping stones, encourages children to embrace challenge and test themselves through repetition. Adult involvement can help encourage the more tentative children, but this can be slowly reduced to inspire independence. A school environment which embraces risk and rewards perseverance is crucial for developing happy,
confident and determined young people with healthy selfesteem.
The cognitive skills that are built through play at an early age become invaluable as children grow up. In a rapidly changing job market, oracy and interpersonal skills are highly sought after. Similarly, raising resilient children in a risk-averse society puts them at an advantage within the so-called ‘anxious generation’. Attention, memory and creativity are all developed through play – and are all transferable skills that last a lifetime. What might look like ‘just playing’ on the surface becomes a world of opportunity for growth.
At Heatherton (an independent girls’ prep school based in Buckinghamshire) we draw on this research to build our early years curriculum around carefully structured moments of play. Heatherton’s early years of education are key in setting the standard for the rest of our pupils’ educational journey, as it is here that they start developing the skills they need for a successful, happy and healthy future.
We provide the space and opportunity for them to expand their natural curiosity about the world around them. Play is part of our everyday teaching and is essential in helping pupils use their higher order thinking skills to adapt, develop, and imagine creating something new.
Want to learn more about what Heatherton has to offer? Book on to our upcoming Open Event on Friday 9 May. More information on our website: heatherton.com
10 reasons why play is important, according to the National Literacy Trust:
1. Play enables children to explore the sound of their own voice and practice using new and familiar sounds.
2. Play stimulates cognitive development.
3. Play introduces children to new words.
4 Play removes barriers and is accessible to all.
5. Play supports physical, fine and gross motor skills.
6. Play enables children to practice, revisit and embed deeper learning through experimentation and repetition.
7. Play facilitates curiosity and enables children to make sense of the world around them.
8. Play encourages independence and risk-taking.
9. Play provides a safe space for children to explore their feelings and develop empathy.
10. Play fosters a love for learning, develops imagination and helps children grasp concepts in an engaging way.
An introduction to phonics for parents
By Erin Miller
If your child is in Reception, infant school or starting school this year, you’ve likely encountered the term ‘phonics.’ Wondering what it all means? Here’s a brief rundown, plus ideas for how you can support your child to learn it.
In short, phonics, or even the more formal Systematic Synthetic Phonics (SSP), is the evidence-based method used to teach children to read in the UK. The Education Endowment Foundation reports that ‘phonics approaches have been consistently found to be effective in supporting younger pupils to master the basics of reading, with an average impact of an additional five months’ progress.’ It notes that research demonstrates that phonics is especially beneficial for ages 4 to 7, as they begin the journey of learning to read.
Phonics highlights the relationship between letters and sounds, allowing children to decode words by sounding them out. It begins by teaching individual letter sounds and gradually moves on to blending sounds to form words. By mastering these phonetic skills, students gain the ability to read fluently and accurately. The first concepts in phonics to understand are ‘phonemes’ and ‘graphemes.’
A ‘phoneme’ refers to the smallest unit of sound in a language. The word ‘cat’ has three phonemes: /c/, /a/, /t/. A ‘grapheme’ is the written representation of a phoneme: the letter ‘a’ represents the /a/ sound.
At the core of phonics is ‘blending’ and ‘segmenting.’ ‘Blending’ refers to combining individual sounds to form words e.g. /c/, /a/, /t/ into ‘cat.’ ‘Segmenting’ is the process of breaking down words into their individual sounds e.g. ‘cat’ into /c/, /a/, /t/.
Critics believe that an overemphasis on phonics means that comprehension, vocabulary and other aspects of learning to read are neglected. Although phonics is the mandated system for learning to read in the UK, other approaches do exist. If you’re interested in exploring these, a good starting point is to research the Whole Language approach.
In my opinion, phonics is an excellent starting point for learning to read but benefits from being combined with elements of other approaches. Be aware that many people (especially online) feel very passionately, both for and against different methods! As ever, all approaches have their pros and cons but remember that phonics is proven to work.
Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
What do the inspectors expect?
The good news is that Ofsted and the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) now assess personal development, which includes mental health in schools. Areas such as resilience, confidence, independence and how to keep mentally healthy are all covered in their assessments. As part of pastoral care in schools, all schools are now also required to provide a mental health and relationships curriculum.
A school judged ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in the area of personal development will provide high quality pastoral support alongside a wide, rich set of experiences which support pupils to be confident, resilient and independent. It will offer exceptional quality opportunities for children to develop their talents and interests and strongly encourage take up of these, especially amongst disadvantaged pupils.
Schools that are ‘outstanding’ in the area of personal development are expected to promote equality and diversion and teach pupils how to be responsible, active citizens who contribute positively to society and demonstrate their own ‘outstanding’ personal development.
Do look beyond Ofsted’s current one-word judgements and do check when Ofsted last visited the schools that you are considering too. More than ninety percent of mainstream state schools are summed up as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ and yet, clearly, there is plenty to distinguish these schools from each other. What’s more, a lot can change in between Ofsted visits.
For parents with children in the private sector, the Independent School Inspectorate (ISI) benchmarks are similar to Ofsted. The ISI is a government approved body that inspects and provides objective evaluation of independent schools. However, ISI reports are more nuanced than Ofsted reports and don’t give single word summative judgements for each area inspected. Their recently revised framework has pupil wellbeing running through it, resulting in TES magazine stating: ‘The upshot of [the new framework] is that personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) education is now probably the single most important subject that schools teach when it comes to inspection outcomes.’
Amanda Childs, Chair of the IAPS Pastoral and Wellbeing Committee, added: ‘Pastoral care is what the independent sector is renowned for. It is about a child knowing they are completely valued and cared for; allowing them to feel safe in order to discover themselves, what they are capable of and developing a positive sense of self.’
Pastoral care in primary schools
By Melanie Sanderson
News reports last year claimed there is a child with a suspected mental health concern in every primary school classroom in the country. Figures released by NHS England showed more than 165,000 children ages 6 to 10 were in contact with NHS mental health services at the end of February 2024, while the number of primary-age children in England either waiting or being treated for mental health problems, increased by over a quarter in less than a year.
The picture has never been starker and schools have a key part to play both in terms of prevention and providing expert support. The past twenty years has seen schools evolve from places where it was ‘brain first’ to spaces where body and mind are recognised as needing equal developmental attention.
Before anything else, a school should be a centre for care. Pastoral care encompasses a wide range of initiatives and approaches. A good primary school will embed pastoral care into all it does within the culture of the school: how it teaches, how it protects, how it listens and learns. A pastorally strong school is in the best position to thrive academically.
When they experience anxiety, children can’t access learning, making it crucial that all schools have a robust pastoral care system to support pupils’ development. Simple measures like buddy benches, mindfulness lessons and worry boxes or mood charts are now widely offered and can make a big difference. Animals are good too. Some schools have a therapy dog and even class pets like goldfish or hamsters can help children open up.
A common thread running through primary schools with a strong pastoral offering seems to be plentiful opportunities for fresh air, physical exercise and being in nature. Even in some of the most space-pressed inner-city schools, children are cultivating a mini allotment or growing sunflowers in the playground. Similarly, Forest Schools offering regular outdoor hands-on learning sessions in natural environments, are building young children’s confidence and self-esteem.
Extra-curricular activities also play a role, fostering social engagement, personal development and a sense of belonging among pupils. An inclusive sporting ethos is often front and centre in schools with good pastoral care, particularly in the co-curricular timetable. However, do look for schools that offer a wide selection of clubs which appeal to all kinds of interests beyond sport too.
Amanda Childs, Chair of the IAPS adds: ‘Pastoral care is more than formal PSHE lessons. It incorporates every interaction
an individual has in school; from the moment they arrive until they leave. It is about a genuine, positive culture, having excellent role models and high expectations, balanced with a kind and realistic view of the support any individual child needs to succeed and that will be different for every single child.’
Central to a robust pastoral approach is staff fully trained in mental health first aid and safeguarding. This also includes the non-teaching staff that children often seek out to talk to such as school nurses, lunchtime and office staff. Sometimes the support offered will be a listening ear, at other times, children might require signposting to additional support. The more mentally healthy schools usually have a school nurse, mental health support teams and even dedicated counselling.
For Dean Taylor, Associate Headteacher at Seven Kings School, a co-ed state school for ages 4 to 18 in east London, it’s the relationship between staff and pupils that holds the key to positive mental health in schools. Dean says: ‘The ethos is more important than anything and you can walk around this school and see that it’s inclusive, friendly, safe and with clear and consistent boundaries’.
Seven Kings pays particular attention to pressure points and makes sure every child has a trusted adult. There’s a joinedup approach with the SENCO too, in the knowledge that youngsters with conditions such as ADHD and autism can be particularly at risk of mental health problems. ‘The most vulnerable pupils have a one-page profile that’s shared with all staff’ adds Dean.
Finally, successful pastoral care involves the school, child and parents. Starting school is a huge milestone for the whole family and a carefully managed transition makes for a smoother pastoral pathway right from the start. Likewise, primary schools with good pastoral provision work closely with secondary schools in Year 6 to ensure a seamless transition to the next stage of education.
Good schools take the time to get to really know a child personally; what they like or don’t like and what they are interested in. Schools where pastoral care is foregrounded will extend their offerings to parents too. They might offer useful parent talks, for instance on safe use of technology and share wellbeing resources. Crucially, these schools will have the confidence to collaborate with parents in robust and trusting ways. If you think your child might need help, your first port of call should be your child’s form teacher or tutor who can elevate your concerns to the appropriate staff member.
Helping a child with suspected learning difficulties
By Usha Patel
Is your child upset in the mornings on school days? Are there constant complaints of stomach ache, crying and other bogus illnesses? And, in contrast, are weekends and holidays trouble-free? A trip to the shopping centre, to the Lego shop or popping over to gran’s for a cuppa - nothing is too much bother and there is little or no resistance. You may find that at weekends less sleep is required and to your surprise, your child is up an hour earlier and ready to take on the day.
Then there is your dread on a Sunday night because Monday is looming. It is back to the troubles of the week before.
You may be struggling to understand why your normally chatty and curious child has such an aversion to school. You think about this, worry about it. You may google ‘has my child got dyslexia?’ or ‘what is neuro-divergence?’
Convinced your child has some sort of learning difficulty?
I want to say: please hold on! I understand you are desperate to help but your child may be too young to be diagnosed (a diagnosis is not possible until age 8 in the UK). The school keeps saying everything is fine, there is loads of time but you are not convinced. That seed is now growing into a small tree and you see a forest on the horizon. You see the Oxbridge option evaporating in front of your eyes and each day compounds your fear.
Did you know Albert Einstein, Thomas Eddison and Steven Spielberg all had some sort of dyslexia or neurodivergence? What about Jamie Oliver, Tom Cruise, John Lennon and Pablo Picasso? Yep, them too!
As time goes on, the world of work is learning that people who do not fit the ‘typical’ way of thinking are actually the gems they want to employ. In a world of machine learning and artificial intelligence, your child will stand out as having valuable and unique processing skills that mark them out from others in a good way. The sort of special processing skills even the smartest computers will not be able to learn for themselves.
The best thing you can do is keep your child curious to learn
Learning is not solely about what your child takes in via reading. It can take many different routes; from talking to people to going to museums and seeing things that spark interest, even watching YouTube videos. If your child doesn’t choose reading, it does not mean they do not like stories. Reading to your child or listening to an audio book is just as valid.
Prompt your child to write down their ideas and when you read them, do so without picking out the spelling mistakes. Allow them to use your phone to record their ideas and then you can write them down or they can listen and write them slowly for themselves.
Focus on the value of their ideas and thoughts and overlook the mistakes. By nurturing curiosity, you are allowing your child to flourish. This is not to say you do not help them with their spelling, grammar and punctuation but being too strict about these will damage their self-esteem.
Usha Patel is a Neurocognitive Therapist at Raviv Practice London (ravivpracticelondon.co.uk)
up at
Supporting your child Building skills
Keep your child happy by celebrating and praising their strengths to help them engage. Everyday activities: sports, baking and art all develop essential skills. Ensure they can work in sequence, as this impacts learning and daily routines. You may notice struggles with sequencing their thoughts in morning routines or problem-solving. Focus on teaching structured steps early; sustained attention is key.
Measure their focus on tasks like games or chores and gradually extend it. Consistency and repetition can create new neural pathways and free up memory capacity.
Encourage movement - it boosts learning. Young children aren’t built to sit still for long, so integrate activities like playing catch while spelling. Movement sharpens focus and retention.
Understanding working memory is crucial; strong working memory aids reading, maths and daily tasks. Test and strengthen it through memory games, repetition and structured routines.
Everyday skills like setting the table help develop focus and accountability. Small, purposeful actions reinforce cognitive growth, making learning smoother.
Top five tips for 11+ preparation
By Chris Pearse
Supporting your child through 11+ preparation for both grammar and independent schools can feel daunting. But with the right approach, it can be a positive and even enjoyable experience. Here are our top tips to help you and your child feel confident and prepared for the journey ahead.
1. Start early, stay consistent
Beginning preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5 allows time to build skills steadily without the stress of cramming. Aim for short, regular sessions – little and often is far more effective than long, infrequent bursts of practice or revision. Vocabulary is key and building up their word knowledge requires time and patience.
2. Understand the exam format and use the right resources
Each 11+ exam can vary, so it’s important to know what’s being tested – whether it’s verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, English, critical thinking or maths. Once you’re clear on the format, use high-quality, reputable resources that reflect the real exam style. Practice papers and mock exams are especially helpful for building confidence, improving time management and reducing exam day nerves.
3. Create a balanced routine
A simple weekly study plan can help keep things on track. Include time for practice, reading and revision, but make sure there’s room for rest and fun too. Involving your child in creating the routine can help them feel more motivated and in control.
4. Focus on strengths and areas of development
Every child learns differently. Celebrate their strengths and offer encouragement and help in areas where they may need extra support. Sometimes it is too easy to avoid the more challenging areas, but they need to be able to do well in all areas of the exam.
5. Prioritise wellbeing
A calm, confident child is a capable one. Keep the tone positive and avoid placing too much pressure – your reassurance can make all the difference. Ensure they’re getting plenty of sleep, eating well, and enjoying time to unwind. A happy mindset will help them approach the exam with resilience and positivity.
Above all, remind your child that the 11+ is just one step on their educational journey. With your encouragement and a steady approach, they’ll be ready to give it their best shot.
Chris Pearse is a qualified primary school teacher. He started Teachitright in 2006 to provide support for children taking their 11+ exams and is passionate about helping children achieve their potential whilst enjoying education. Find more about Teachitright below.
Preserving and protecting childhood innocence
By Catherine Loble and Lisa Wander
Childhood innocence is characterised by an unfiltered view of the world, an ability to find joy in simple things and a natural trust in the goodness around them. This untainted perspective is not only heartwarming, it is essential for a child’s development.
However, many children will experience sadness, grief, fear and disappointment, some earlier and in greater measure than others and it cannot always be avoided. The global pandemic was a compelling reminder that no child is exempt from difficult emotions and experiences. So how can we preserve childhood innocence in our unfiltered world?
Spanning birth to adolescence, childhood is characterised by growth, discovery, learning and the development of physical, emotional, social and intellectual abilities. This fleeting, magical phase of life is brimming with curiosity, innocence and joy, a time when imagination knows no bounds. Yet, in today’s fast-paced, digital-first world, preserving and fully enjoying childhood has become increasingly challenging.
We are all so busy and our children’s lives reflect that, with long school days, extracurricular activities, playdates and a constant stream of entertainment and stimulation. Childhood flashes by and before we know it, they are teenagers immersed in the world of social media, their innocence long gone.
Modern day life ‘dictates’ that we need to provide our children with constant stimulation, structured activities, the latest toys to enhance development and even start them at a nursery as babies in order that they develop social skills. Consequently, from a very young age, our children are in a relentless routine, within which the essence of childhood is lost.
The good news is that there are many ways to step off this treadmill and allow our children to thrive and enjoy their childhood without the continuous tedium of busy schedules.
Whilst some extracurricular activities are fun and beneficial, be mindful of overscheduling. Choose one or two which
Why does childhood innocence matter?
The simplicity of childhood innocence allows children to experience life’s joys without the weight of adult worries. Innocence allows children to develop trust and form healthy emotional bonds.
An innocent mind is a creative mind. Seeing the world with fresh eyes fuels imagination and creativity, essential traits for problem solving and innovation.
Innocence is closely linked with children’s sense of right and wrong. Protecting their innocence helps in developing a strong moral foundation, guiding them to become kind and ethical adults.
your child enjoys and strike a balance between structured activities and free time. Childhood is the perfect opportunity to cultivate curiosity through unstructured play which in turn fosters creativity, problem-solving and emotional resilience, for example building forts, role play, exploring nature and outdoor adventures.
Protect your child’s innocence while teaching resilience: children are born innocent and with that innocence comes trust. Whilst we should strive to shield our children from unnecessary stress or the severity of the grim news which dominates our world, it’s equally important to equip them with age–appropriate tools to navigate challenges and deal with disappointment and the world around them.
By monitoring and filtering their media exposure, we can create and foster a safe environment where our children feel comfortable to talk.
Children often emulate adults so where possible model enthusiasm for life to inspire your children to embrace it with joy and curiosity. Be mindful of how you talk about the world around you and manage your own emotions and fears without amplifying your children’s worries.
Preserving and enjoying childhood is as much about us as it is about children themselves. By being present, creating nurturing environments and encouraging exploration, we can help children savour and enjoy their youth while still preparing them for their future adult life. These formative years are a gift to be cherished, protected and celebrated.
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
Tips for protecting childhood innocence
Appreciate, value, actively listen and participate in your child’s interests. Simplify explanations - provide simple, truthful answers to questions. Avoid overloading with too much information and keep adult topics for adults. Weave and create special memories of time spent together. Step into nature and explore the world together.
Maintain a joyful environment. Laugh together and share spontaneous fun. It feels great and strengthens bonds. Ensure limited, age-appropriate and monitored screentime.
Mental Health
Eight game changing products to calm your anxious child
By Ellie Malt
Empathy, hugs and distraction are the first call for any parent trying to calm an anxious child. Over the longer term, cognitive behavioural therapy is one of the most widely recommended therapies. But, if anxiety is a regular feature of your family life then you might also like to explore some of the ever-increasing range of calming products on the market. Here are eight ideas to try.
WEIGHTED BLANKETS
In 1965, an American scientist with autism, Temple Grandin, invented the hug machine. Inspired by this idea, occupational therapists began using weighted blankets for children with sensory issues. The launch of the gravity blanket saw the first blanket marketed to the general public, as a sleep aid and stress reducer. Sensory Direct (sensorydirect. com) offers a wide range of options with differing weights and fabrics.
LIGHTING AND MUSIC
Purflo’s (purflo.com) dream cloud is a night light that combines with soothing sounds and is perfect to help your child fall asleep, featuring ten lullabies, four nature sounds and a heartbeat sound with volume control. It’s also very portable so perfect for keeping bedtime routines consistent on holiday or on sleepovers.
MINDFULNESS REMOTES
Designed for children ages 5-12, Stix Remotes (stixmindfulness.co.uk) are handheld devices that guide kids through screen-free mindfulness exercises. With built-in voice instructions, they offer activities ranging from breathing exercises to movement-based tasks, promoting calmness and focus. Developed in collaboration with psychologists, Stix says the remotes aim to improve emotional regulation.
FIDGET TOYS
Although there’s no strong scientific evidence that fidget toys work, many people say they find the distraction calming. Fidgets by Amelie (fidgets-byamelie.com) is a UK-based company, specialising in sensory products with a next level design aesthetic. They have a few different toys, each designed for different sensory preferences.
CLOTHING
EAR PLUGS
Over-ear defenders and noise cancelling headphones are helpful for kids with sensitive hearing. Ear plugs shaped like a tube are relative newcomers and can be more discrete in noisy places.
Popular with sound engineers and teenagers at concerts, they are also used by those with sensory issues. Manufacturers claim they still allow all noises through but soften sounds to make them more tolerable and reduce cortisol levels. Flare Audio (flareaudio.com) make a range called Calmer Kids which fit inside the ear.
SQUEEZE SEATS
The Lalloo version of a Squeeze Seat offers kids a safe, secluded personal space: great for reducing sensory overload. The design caters to individual preferences, offering options for tight-fitting or oversized seats. It’s just one of several versions for sale at the not-forprofit website Fledglings (fledglings.org.uk)
From hoodies to compression vests, there’s a surprising range of weighted clothing to create that portable hug effect. Up until now they’ve been more about their function than fashion, so it’s great to see there’s even a weighted denim jacket available from the UK based company Sensory Direct.
BREATHING TOYS
They may look like typical cuddly toys but these fluffy buddies can also make gentle breathing and snoring sounds, thanks to battery operated speakers fitted into their tummies.
It’s common knowledge that our heart rates and breathing speed up when anxiety strikes. Manufacturers of these breathing toys claim they help children to regulate their own breathing as they hug the toy close and start to match the natural breathing rhythm.
Evora (evoraofficial.com) were one of the first to create a breathing Koala which has a soft light up belly and a soothing motion to accompany a breathing sound and a heartbeat.
Ellie Malt is a writer and mother of two girls, living in Surrey.
Becoming a sober mother
By Rachael Shephard
At 3am I opened my eyes and felt the all too familiar jolt of anxiety flooding my chest. I’d done it again. Five days of sobriety had been obliterated by a bottle of red wine.
Why do I do this to myself? I was feeling so much better. Why didn’t I just stick to the plan? Why is this SO hard!
Despite my solemn commitment to get sober, yet again I’d (quite literally) run to my local shop to buy a bottle of wine. I was hopelessly addicted.
Years of social drinking and ‘mummy wine o’clock’ endorsements had convinced me that I was just like all the other mums. How could I possibly have a problem if everyone else was doing the same thing? I didn’t drink in the mornings, was successful in my job and managed to spin multiple plates. I couldn’t be an alcoholic.
It was the sudden and totally unexpected death of my mum and an acrimonious divorce that fully catapulted me to a two-bottles-a-night wine habit and eventually, to concede that I did actually have an issue with booze. It became horribly palpable. Severe chest pain and blind panic in the early hours. Raging daily hangovers. Putting my boys to bed early so I could drink myself into a nightly coma. Constant fear for my declining health.
Every single morning, I would set the intention to not drink that evening. But addiction is a sneaky beast and in the aftermath of the dreaded school run, Pinot was the obvious answer to all of my problems.
First steps to getting sober
Tell everyone who matters to you that you’re going to quit. It won’t be easy but when you’re vocal about your issues with alcohol it gives you accountability and crucially, support from those who care about you most.
Read up on addiction for the sobering facts. When I first quit, I was absolutely staggered at how little I knew about alcohol’s effects on the brain and the body. Unravelling the many widely-held false beliefs about alcohol allows you to consider the truth about what it is doing to your body and your life.
Focus on the basics. It takes three months for the body to properly heal and there are a surprising number of symptoms to navigate. Extreme tiredness, desperate sugar cravings, feeling flat and bored due to lack of dopamine production, to name a few. As long as you stay sober, you’re winning. So rest and keep on top of the bare minimum. When your energy pops back in month four, you’ll be good to go.
Looking over to my nightstand, my journal was open to a drunken revelation: ‘This does not feel good.’ I didn’t remember writing it, but something hit home in that moment. Alcohol had finally become pointless. That was the moment the decision to quit finally stuck.
Three years on and now happily sober, I’m living proof that life truly can begin again at age 40. I’ve started my own sober coaching business, written a book sharing my mistakes and lessons learned and I’m focused on finding joy in as many ways as possible; without alcohol.
I certainly couldn’t have imagined it would be so fulfilling; not just surviving, but actually living with purpose and fulfillment. They say that addiction is giving up everything for one thing and sobriety is giving up one thing to gain everything. I couldn’t agree more.
Sober Mama, Rachael Shephard’s book, is available from bookshop.org
How to cope with drinking triggers
Stick to daytime socialising until you’re beyond the threemonth mark. Going out for dinner (sans wine) can be extremely difficult at first. Opt for lunch out instead. This way you can maintain your social life.
If you have to go to an event involving alcohol eg a wedding, drive. The majority of the internal conflict with triggers is wrestling over the decision of whether or not to drink. By removing the option entirely, there is no choice to make, which makes life a whole lot easier. It also saves you from the inevitable questions about why you’re not drinking.
Reduce stress anyway you can. Triggers often follow tense events like work or family dramas. Stress leads to triggers and triggers lead to cravings. Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and burn off cortisol. Meditation can help you to find peace in a moment. Whatever floats your boat, reducing the drama in your life is the key to early sobriety.
Preparing for your return to work
By Karen Danker
At the moment our household is in mid-exam crisis mode. With one son about to sit university finals and my younger son A-levels, I’m doing my best to support from the sidelines, making cups of tea and stocking the constantly emptying fridge!
I’ve been encouraging my kids to prepare mentally, positively channelling their adrenaline and discussing what to do if they have a crisis of confidence just before an exam.
Advance preparation is similarly vital when you make the decision to return to work. Preparing on three fronts: professional/technical, practical and mental will reap dividends and can really help you feel much calmer and more in control of the process.
Professional/technical preparation
Take steps to bring your knowledge back up to date. If you feel your skills are rusty, check out free online courses to help you upskill, through websites such as Coursera (coursera.org) Udacity (udacity.com), Cisco Academy (netacad.com) and LinkedIn Learning.
Resubscribe to professional journals. This can help you reconnect with your old sector and understand any major developments, new language or acronyms.
Talk to people about what you’re looking to return to. This can help you to reconnect with your professional identity, boost your confidence and refine your career narrative. Reconnect with ex-colleagues and other contacts you were once close to on LinkedIn and arrange to meet up to discuss ideas and explore opportunities.
Practical preparation
Having practical support networks in place can ease some of the stresses when you return. If you’re going to need childcare, research this as soon as possible to give yourself a good window to settle your child in and consider your Plan B if they’re unwell. If you have other caring responsibilities, say for elderly parents, think ahead about what other support you may need once you return.
Reflect on the commitments of your current week and consider how things will work once you add employment into the mix. Consider household chores, as well as voluntary activities and decide what you can start to cut back on or delegate and what other support you might be able to bring in.
Share the load! This is a great time to get other members of your household more engaged in domestic life. Start to delegate more to your children and encourage their independence. If you have a partner, share more of the home responsibilities.
Think carefully about how work can fit with your life. Map out a balanced work week. When do you want/need to be at home? Prioritise what’s most important to you and practice saying ‘no’ to other requests to free up your time. You’ll need to be flexible about how this might pan out once you get into job discussions but being clearer on your non-negotiables will help you to target the right opportunities.
Mental preparation
Returners’ professional confidence often takes a hit while on a career break. Your professional preparation will help
you to boost your confidence, as you reconnect with your professional identity and get clarity on the strengths and experience you can bring to your new role. Remember, your strengths, skills and experience are still there despite your break, even if your knowledge might be a little rusty.
Spending time with those that are championing your return will increase your energy and enthusiasm for returning to work and will help you to overcome any self-doubt. Sharing your excitement with your family will get them involved in your journey and rooting for you, as well as helping them accept the inevitable changes to come.
Building peer support can also help you navigate any ups and downs. You can join the Career Returners Community (https://community.careerreturners.com) for peer support and access to a wealth of return-to-work resources and advice. Hearing other people’s successful return to work journeys can be a motivator! You can tune in to the Career Returners Podcast (womenreturners.com/returners/careerreturners-podcast) and delve into its Success Story Library (careerreturners.com) to learn from other returners who have trodden similar paths and are now flourishing back at work.
Holiday Camps Summer camps & workshops: the options
Summer holiday camps, courses and workshops are not only an ideal way to fill in childcare gaps during the long summer holiday, but also offer the opportunity for your child to discover a new hobby or take their existing passion to a new level.
Multi-activity day camps. These camps offer a diverse daily schedule of sports and creative activities, with multiple sessions lasting one hour to ninety minutes. Ideal for kids with varied interests, they generally feature sports, arts and craft, outdoor exploration and games. Camps offer flexible booking options, including single days, half days, full weeks, extended hours and multi-week discounts
Sport/single activity camps or workshops. Sport and single activity camps or workshops are perfect for kids keen to focus on specific interests, including sports, creative arts, performing arts or STEM. These programmes, running from a day to two weeks with sessions lasting two to five hours a day, often wrap up with performances, games or project showcases. They cater both to experienced children seeking expert coaching and newcomers curious about trying something different, offering immersive experiences to enhance skills, boost confidence and ignite enthusiasm. These camps or workshops offer expert guidance for passionate children and valuable insights for those exploring new interests. They foster personal growth, help children meet like-minded peers and provide enriching holiday experiences.
Low-cost childcare options
Use your tax-free childcare. Families can receive up to £2,000 annually per child or £4,000 for a disabled child, to help with childcare costs, including approved holiday clubs. This support is available for children up to age 11 or 17 for those with disabilities. Don’t miss this opportunity to ease your childcare holiday club expenses.
Take paid or unpaid leave. You may find that if all else fails you will need to use your annual leave. If you don’t have enough paid leave then you have a statutory entitlement to ‘parental leave’ which allows up to eighteen weeks unpaid leave per child until they’re 18.
Team up. In addition to grandparents, consider teaming up with friends to cover certain days and reciprocate in a shared arrangement.
Share a nanny. Sharing a nanny with other families is called a nanny share, where multiple families use the same nanny. The nanny may care for all children at once or split time between families.
Out of the ordinary. Traditionally themed camps or workshops are great but there’s a world of unique activities waiting to spark curiosity and creativity too!
How about a circus skills workshop? Children can learn juggling, tightrope walking and acrobatics in a fun and energetic environment. It’s not only entertaining but also improves balance, co-ordination and confidence. For something out of this world, sign your child up for a space and astronomy camp. Through telescope sessions and hands-on experiments, children can discover the wonders of space while developing a passion for science. Your budding chef could even take their culinary prowess to the next level at the surprising range of cooking camps available across the country.
Why not consider a residential camp to develop independence, social skills and confidence? Tring Park School for the Performing Arts offer residential summer courses (see page on right). Or the entire family can experience camp life at Summer Camp, a series of nature-based micro-festivals by The Good Life Society (thegoodlifesociety.co.uk) at Flintshire’s Hawarden Estate.
Reluctant child?
If your child is reluctant to enrol in a summer camp, course or workshop, it’s important to approach the situation with patience and understanding.
Start by listening. Understanding what makes them anxious, whether it’s meeting new people, fear of failure or unfamiliar settings, can help you address those fears.
Offer choices. Let them explore activities that match their interests. Whether it’s football, painting or drama, feeling in control can reduce anxiety and spark excitement.
Take it slowly. Talk to the camp provider about whether your child can observe activities, before deciding whether or not to join in.
Model confidence. Your own attitude can play a big role. Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions and a confident approach can help them feel more secure.
Celebrate effort, not outcomes. Offer praise for participating, regardless of results. Building their confidence will encourage them to keep trying.
What’s On
May & June
By Claire Lockie-Williams
Weekly Classes
PERFORM DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING CLASSES
Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7’s and 7-12’s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Classes in Amersham, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Gerrards Cross or Wendover. To book a FREE class visit: perform.org.uk/try
Saturday 3 May
VICTORY EVENT
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with Garden Fete, music and dance. Free event, half priced Museum admission. Book in advance:. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Saturday 3 – Monday 5 May
BERKSHIRE BIRDS OF PREY
Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury.
Get up close and personal with birds of prey, including handling for the adventurous. 10am-4pm. Pre-booking not required. waddesdon.org.uk
Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 May
SPRING ON THE FARM
Peterley Manor Farm, Great Missenden. Artisan market, street food and live music. peterleymanorfarm.co.uk
Sunday 4 May
ROCK AND FOSSIL DAY
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Rock and Fossil day is back, explore rocks, fossils and minerals from Bucks and beyond. Found a rock you cannot identify? Bring it along and let the experts work out what it is. 12-3pm. More details online: discoverbucksmuseum.org
Sunday 4 and Monday 5 May
MAY DAY MERRIMENT
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Dancing, music and firepower Elizabethanstyle. Full details and booking: coam.org.uk/events
1940’S WEEKEND: VE PARTY
Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes. A commemorative event. For tickets see website, (under 12yrs free). bletchleypark.org.uk
BUCKS COUNTRY AND DOG SHOW
Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire. Annual Bucks Country show weekend. Family and dog friendly. 10am-5pm Free parking and under 5’s free. buckscountryshow.co.uk
Monday 5 May
DINO DAY
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. A whole herd of dinosaurs will be roaming the site all day. It’ll be ROAR-some. 10.30am-5pm. Pre-book online: bucksrailcentre.org
FAMILY FUN DAY
Thomley, Worminghall. Family fun day with soft play, giant bubbles, inflatables, jumping pillows and more. 10.30am-5pm. Booking essential. thomley.org.uk
HERITAGE PARK OPEN DAY
Pitstone Green Museum, Leighton Buzzard. Step back and explore a time before the digital age. 10.30am-4.30pm. Also on 26th May and 8th June. Tickets on the door. pitstonemuseum.co.uk
Tuesday 6 May
WENDOVER LIBRARY
Wendover library, Wendover High Street Wendover Library has reopened at its new home. For opening times, buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Thursday 8 May
DISCOVER DUCKS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Themed play session for u5s and their parents/carers. 10am-12pm. Also 22 10am5pm May, 12 & 26 Jun discoverbucksmuseum.org
FAMILIES GO WILD
Black Park, Stoke Poges. Families sessions for Forest school and outdoor fun, 1-10yrs. Fri, term time only. countryparks.buckscc.gov.uk
VE DAY 80
Milton Keynes Museum, Milton Keynes. Live entertainment and marching cadets. miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk
Friday 9 May
TINY TALK
Wycombe Museum, High Wycombe. Stories, crafts and museum fun. 10-10.45am. Adults FREE. Also 23rd May, 13th and 27th June. wycombemuseum.org.uk
TITCHY TODDLERS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Tricks and inventions themed preschool session. 6months-4yrs. 10am-12pm. Up to 2 adults free. Also 13th June. roalddahlmuseum.org
SKETCH AND SCRIBBLE
Tring Natural History Museum, Tring. Fun family drawing session 2.303.30pm. FREE. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May
WIFI WARS
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street. Interactive comedy game show. 4pm (6+yrs) and 7pm (12+yrs). See website, atgtickets.com
Ofsted Good Clubs in school holidays
Flexible bookings between 8am - 6pm at Chalfont St Peter & Aylesbury. Range of ac tivities for 5 - 11 year olds
Sibling/full day bookings discounts. 01494 702702 info@busy-living.co.uk www.busy-living.co.uk
Sunday 11 May
SKILL DEMONSTRATIONS
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Blacksmith: Find out what’s being made in the Forge. Start of a series of demonstrative crafts, trades and techniques on at the Museum. See Website for additional dates and crafts. coam.org.uk/events
DAWN CHORUS WALKS
Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury.
Guided walking tour to listen to the magical bird song and explore the grounds. 4-7.30am. Also on 18th May. waddesdon.org.uk
VE DAY CELEBRATION
GXCA, Gerrards Cross.
Live music, dancing and food. £35ppp. gxca.org.uk
Wednesday 14 May
STAY AND PLAY CAFÉ
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Safe play space for under 5’s and their adults. 10am-12pm. Free hot beverages. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Thursday 15 May
BABES IN THE WOOD
Wycombe Museum, Priory Ave. Forest school 18mths-5yrs. 10am-11.30. Also 5th and 19th June. Book online: wycombemuseum.org.uk
Saturday 17 May
ASTON HILL CLIMB 100 CELEBRATION
Aston Clinton.
Classic cars, vintage parade, recreation of the famous Aston Hill climb. 9am-5pm. astonhill100.com
BIG BOX BONANZA SHOW
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Double Whammy of Family adventure workshops. 5-11yrs. 10.30am and 1.30pm. discoverbucksmuseum.org
MAY FAYRE
Newtown Infant School, Chesham. Annual May Fayre in support of the School with May pole dancing, Mr Marvel and more. newtown.education
Saturday 17 May (Cont’)
OPEN GARDENS AND PLANT SALE
Spring Garden Lane, Berkhamsted. Garden tours, pretty plants and cake in aid of The Hospice of St Francis. 10am-3pm. stfrancis.org.uk
WONDERS OF OUR UNIVERSE
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange St. Delve into the mysteries of stars, planets and galaxies. 11+yrs. 2pm and 7pm showings. See website,atgtickets.com
Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 May
STEAM, CLASSIC AND COUNTRY FAIR Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. Brand new event in the showground with classic cars, vintage vehicles including fire engines, traction engines and steam trains, plus, ponies, a dog show and loads to do. 10.30am-5pm. Pre-book, bucksrailcentre.org
Sunday 18 May
BUSHCRAFT MORNING
Wycombe Museum, High Wycombe. A friendly Bushcraft morning for all the family. 10am-12pm. wycombemuseum.org.uk
CHILTERN HILLS RALLY
Weedon Park, Aylesbury. Fun family day with classic cars, dog show, children’s rides and much more. 10am-5pm. chilternhillsrally.org.uk
Dino Day at Bucks Rail Centre, Monday 5 May
What’s On
Sunday 18 May (cont’)
RIDE CHARTRIDGE
Chartridge School, Chesham. Annual cycling event for all the family. ridechartridge.com
SEER GREEN FAIRY TALE FETE
Seer Green CofE School, Seer Green. Fairytale games & stalls, 11am-1.30pm. seergreenceschool.co.uk
SENDSATIONAL MORNING
Tring Natural History Museum. A special SEN relaxed session. 10am12pm, FREE. Booking essential. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Monday 19 May
STOWE TOTS
Stowe House, Buckinghamshire. Toddler session, ‘Musical Mayhem’ (May) and ‘Rainbows’ (June). 0-4yrs. 10am. Also 30th June. stowe.co.uk
Wednesday 21 May
FOSTERING INFORMATION EVENING
Gatehouse Road, Aylesbury.
Learn about the fostering process and the support provided on the fostering journey, ask the team any questions and hear firsthand accounts from the incredible local fostering community. 6.30pm. FREE. Book your spot online: fostering.buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Friday 23 May
TOTS GO WILD
Black Park, Stoke Poges. Forest school fun and adventures for 1-5yrs. Book online: countryparks.buckscc.gov.uk
Friday 23 – Sunday 25 May
CHESHAM FRINGE FESTIVAL
Chesham, Buckinghamshire.
Vibrant array of music, comedy, theatre, poetry and more at the 2nd annual Fringe Festival. visitchesham.org.uk
Half Term
Daily Activities
ROALD DAHL CHILDREN’S GALLERY
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Crawl along Fantastic Mr Fox’s tunnel, explore sounds with the BFG, discover Willy Wonka’s inventions and more. Open weekends and Bucks school holidays. discoverbucksmuseum.org
WHIZZ KIDS
Thame, Oxon.
Indoor children’s activity centre includes giant play frame, toddler play frame, sports arena, bouncy castle and more. Open daily. Pre-booking advised. whizzkidz-thame.co.uk
Saturday 24 May – Sunday 1 June
ANIMAL ANTICS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Celebrating ‘the Giraffe, the Pelly and Me,’ with storytelling sessions featuring amazing animal heroes as well as trails, workshops and drop-in crafts. roalddahlmuseum.org
ART IN NATURE
Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury. Celebrate the beauty of nature through art. 10am-5pm. Closed 27th May. Free with grounds admission. waddesdon.org.uk
Saturday 24 May – Sunday 5 October
BEYOND THE STARS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Discover the art of Sci-Fi special effects with models & props used in classic British TV shows. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Sunday 25 – Friday 30 May
MAY HALF TERM
Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes. Exciting, fun-filled day out exploring Bletchley with bonus half term activities. bletchleypark.org.uk
Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 May
THE LOCAL BEER AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
Princes Risborough School Field. Your local all family festival brings you live music, kids entertainment and much more. Early Bird Weekend tickets from just £15 for 2 adults. Kids 15 yrs and under are always FREE. thelocalfoodfestival.com
Saturday 24 – Monday 26 May
BIRDS OF PREY
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. Learn about these impressive birds up close alongside enjoying the magical model village. bekonscot.co.uk
Sunday 25 May
OLAF FALAFELS SUPER STUPID SHOW
Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. 1pm. elgiva.com
SCIENCE MUSEUM- LIVE STAGE SHOW
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange St. 1.30pm. Book online: atgtickets.com
Sunday 25 and Monday 26 May
ROMAN GLADIATORS
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Watch Roman Gladiators battle in fierce combat. Educational and thrilling. 10am-5pm. Pre-booking advised, under 4’s FREE. coam.org.uk
DENHAM VILLAGE CENTENARY FAYRE Village Road, Denham. Celebrating 100 years of its annual village Fayre. Fairground rides, Morris dancing, classic cars and more. denhamparish.church
Theatre Design
Discovery Workshop
Come together to explore stage and lighting (LX) design! Choose from an AM session for families or a PM session for secondary students.
Date: Saturday 14
June 2025
Location: Garsington Studios
garsingtonopera.org
Monday 26 – Friday 30 May
SPACEY HALF TERM FUN
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Discover the Wonders of Space in hands-on activities: To book:discoverbucksmuseum.org
Tuesday 27 May
TERRIFIC TUESDAY
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Themed family crafts and clay modeling. 10am-5pm. Under 4’s free. coam.org.uk
Tuesday 27 – Wednesday 28 May
DISCOVER AND MAKE
Wycombe Museum, High Wycombe. 4-11yrs. Multiple time slots. To book tickets: wycombemuseum.org.uk
Tuesday 27 May – Sunday 1 June
DOWNLEY HOLIDAY CLUB
High Wycombe.
Different activities every day, including swimming, soft play, cooking, arts and crafts. For booking and special events: thedownleyafterschoolclub.com
Tuesday 27 – Thursday 29 May
PELLY CLAY BUCKETS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Learn about ‘the Pelly’ character and have a go sculpting your own out of clay. Multiple times. £5pp plus entry. roalddahlmuseum.org
Every Friday and Saturday evening
SUNSET SESSIONS AT RUSH
Rush Trampoline Park, High Wycombe.
Every Friday and Saturday evening, Rush transforms into the ultimate trampolining party with their Sunset Session. Think disco lights, groovy tunes, electric atmosphere plus tons of different attractions to choose from.
Bounce across a sea of trampolines to the latest dance hits, challenge your friends on their interactive attractions, or grab a pizza in the cafe after working up an appetite. It’s a session you don’t want to miss. Tickets are limited – book now. rushuk.com
Wednesday 28 May – Sunday 1 June
CIRCUS ZYAIR
Hemel Hempstead. Fearless acrobats and daredevil stuntmen. Multiple showings. circus-zyair.co.uk
Thursday 29 May
BIOBLITZ
Tring Natural History Museum, Tring. Outside family friendly activities like pond dipping and mini beast hunting. 10am-3pm. FREE. nhm.ac.uk/tring
DROP OFF DAY
Iver Environment Centre, Iver. Outdoor fun with games, crafts and getting in touch with nature. 7-11rs. 10am. Book at, iverenvironmentcentre.org
Friday 30 May
ANIMAL HANDLING, JUNGLE JUNIORS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Come face-to-face with some heroic minibeasts and bugs, get up close to reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. 5yrs+. Multiple times. £5pp plus entry. roalddahlmuseum.org
Saturday 31 May
WONDERS OF THE DINOSAURS
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street. It’s roarsome! 2pm and 6pm. Book online: atgtickets.com
Roman Gladiators at Chiltern Open Air Museum, Sunday 25 – Monday 26 May
What’s On
Saturday 31 May and Sunday 1 June
NAPOLEONIC LIVING HISTORY WEEKEND
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Step back in time and immerse yourself in history. 10am-5pm. Pre-booking advised, under 4’s FREE. coam.org.uk
June
Thursday 5 June
TACTILE EXPLORERS
Tring Natural History Museum, Tring. A special event for blind and partially sighted adults and their families. 2.30-3.30pm, FREE. Booking essential. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Friday 6 June
EXPLORE YOUR WAY
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Special relaxed day with sensory storytelling and SEND resources. 10am4.30pm.roalddahlmuseum.org
ST LEONARDS VILLAGE FETE
Parish Hall Playing fields, Hawridge and Chorlesbury. Fun packed afternoon at this annual fete. stleonardsparishhall.uk
WYCOMBE JAZZ FESTIVAL
Wycombe Arts Centre, Desborough Rd.
A diverse line up of new and established artists from Bucks and beyond. 2-11pm. wycombeartscentre.com
Saturday 7 – Sunday 22 June
BUCKS ART WEEKS
Multiple Buckinghamshire locations. Pop up exhibitions all over Bucks exploring a multitude of artworks. bucksartweeks.org.uk
Sunday 8 June
FUN DAY
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.
Special fun day for all-have a laugh with inflatables galore and fun, plus steam train rides and 30 acres of railwayland to explore. 10.30am-5pm. £5 entry. Pre-book: bucksrailcentre.org
Friday 13 June
HOME EDUCATION DAY
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Explore inspiration behind some of Roald Dahl’s stories and make your own book bag. 5-11yrs. 11am-12.30pm. Under 3s and accompanying adults free. discoverbucksmuseum.org
WALK OF LIGHT
Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury. Fundraising walk in celebration of loved ones and hospice nurses. Early bird offer until 13th May. See website: fnhospice.org.uk
Saturday 14 June
BIG BIRTHDAY BASH
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Celebrating 20 years of the Museum with storytelling, clay workshops, fete games and cake. 10am-4.30pm. roalddahlmuseum.org
FREE CODING FOR 5 & 6 YEAR OLDS
Aylesbury or High Wycombe. Introducing coding through play and storytelling, sample a FREE Code Ninjas session. They also offer weekly coding sessions and holiday camps for 5-14yrs. Whether building their own video games or debugging code, it’s an unforgettably fun learning experience! Book online: codeninjas.com
Saturday 14 June (cont’)
THEATRE DESIGN DISCOVERY WORKSHOP
Garsington Studios, High Wycombe. A double treat of Workshops. A family handson workshop exploring character, costume and simple mask making. 11.30am – 12.30pm. 5-10yrs. A design workshop to try your hand at creating a storyboard, model making and lighting techniques to help tell a story on stage. 2 – 4pm. 11-18yrs. To book, garsingtonopera.org
THE SCHOOLS OF CHESHAM CARNIVAL
Chesham, Buckinghamshire. Fabulous community carnival in aid of all of Chesham’s school, amazing floats with ‘children’s books theme’, plus rides & activities. 10am-5pm. visitchesham.org.uk
Sunday 15 June
BUBBLE RUSH
Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead. A bubble bonanza course for charity. stfrancis.org.uk
FATHERS DAY RIDGEWAY RUN
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. Admire dozens of heritage commercial vehicles (vans, lorries, buses). Pre-book online: bucksrailcentre.org
FATHER’S DAY WALK
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. A Roald Dahl ramble in the woods. 11.30am and 2pm. Book at: roalddahlmuseum.org
HEMLEY HILLBILLIES
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Celebrate Father’s Day with relaxing renditions of Country and Western music. 10am-5pm. Pre-booking advised, u4s FREE. coam.org.uk
Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 June
SUMMER FEST
Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury. Enjoy a vibrant weekend of pop-up theatre and performance, culinary delights, wine tastings and family activities. 10am-5pm. Book online: waddesdon.org.uk
Saturday 21 June
PETER’S RAILWAY INTERACTIVE WORKSHOP
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. Join the engineer and author of ‘Peter’s Railway’ and recreate a railway. See website: bekonscot.co.uk
PARTY ON THE PITCH
Penn and Tylers Green Football Club, Fabulous family friendly music festival with amusement ride, foot and more. ptgfc.co.uk
PRESTWOOD PICNIC
Prestwood Common.
Vintage cars, children’s activities and community fun events. 11am-early eve. prestwoodcommunity.uk
Stonor Park, Henley-on Thames. Moana, Grease, Stick Man and more. adventurecinema.co.uk
Saturday 28 June
BELLINGDON & ASHRIDGE FETE
Bellingdon Village Hall, Bellingdon. Traditional fete with welly wrangling, tug of war, classic cars, dog show and more. bellingdon.com
COLOUR RUN
Brushwood Junior School, Chesham. Enjoy a cacophony of colours in this School fundraiser. 11am-4pm. £9pp. brushwoodjunior.education
Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 June
MEDIEVAL JOUSTING
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Experience the excitement of medieval jousting, be captivated by Knights at combat. Pre-booking advised, under 4s free. coam.org.uk
Sunday 29 June
SUMMER FUN DAY
Woodrow High House, Amersham. Fun family day with lots of activities and stalls. 11am-4pm. woodrowhighhouse.org
14 July – 22 August 2025
ULTIMATE FUN THIS SUMMER
Maltman’s Green School, Gerrards Cross. Godstowe School, High Wycombe and Thornton College, Milton Keynes. Join Ultimate Fun during the summer holidays. Children, 4-14 years, can enjoy a range of over 40 sports, games and craft activities each week, led by inspiring staff in superb facilities. Take the stress out of childcare and join an outstanding school holiday camps. For your reassurance and your child’s safeguarding, their staff, facilities and activities meet Ofsted rigorous standards.
Camps run Monday-Friday, 8am-6 pm. Book by the day or week and they accept childcare vouchers. ultimateactivity.co.uk
