Families Hampshire North May June 2014

ISSUE 2 MAY/JUNE 2014

EE FR

Mums in business, Education News, What’s On & loads more…

Party time!

• Ideas for every age

• Party directory

• Don’t forget the photos!

The essential new magazine for families with young children in Andover, Basingstoke, Hook, Fleet, Alton, Bordon & surrounding areas

‘I foster because I love watching the children develop and grow into their own person.’

Call now to find out more about fostering with Hampshire County Council

www.hants.gov.uk

Fleet & District Carnival

THIS YE AR’S CHARITY IS

1st - 6th July 2014

Saturday Saturday 5th 5th Grand Grand Procession Procession

Theme Great British Inventions

CREATIVE PARTNER www.crazygecko.co.uk

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Registered under Charities Act 264443

ISSUE 2 MaY/JUNE 2014

Contents

orth ire N h s mp Ha

Welcome to the Party Special issue!

My thanks to those of you who contacted me with such positive feedback on our launch magazine in March. I’m really pleased you enjoyed it.

This issue is our Party Special and has a great feature full of useful information, advice and a directory of selected venues, suppliers and entertainers. A child’s anticipation of their birthday party can be akin to waiting for Father Christmas to visit - and so equally potentially stressful for parents - our party feature is intended to make this all just a little bit easier for you. Looking ahead to the summer holidays now, if you run a local business for families with young children and have any events you are planning for the summer season, please get in touch with me.

Sara

4 - 5

News

6

ums in M business

7 – 8 Childcare & Education

9 – 12 Birthday Parties

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Contact details:

N is ex su t e

Editor: Sara Dawson Email: editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Tel: 01256 330147

July/August – Summer Holidays!

Booking & copy deadline is 2nd June

- News from schools & nurseries in our area - Independent school open days

- Fabulous parties at every age - How to take the best party photos - Party directory of our selected venues, entertainers & suppliers

13 – 16 What’s on

- Half term - Out & about - Theatres

Find us on Facebook and Twitter

familieshampshirenorth

Designed by:

@FamiliesHantsN

Families Hampshire North is part of a group established in 1990 headed by Families South West London. All magazines are independently owned and operated under licence.

Cover by: Isossy Children www.isossychildren.com @isossychildren Photographer - Alex Sarginson

© All content copyright Families Hampshire North.

Disclaimer: We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

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Printed by: PRINTED BY WARNERS 01778 395111

Data protection: If you send us your name & address in order to enter a competition and subsequently win a prize, we will supply your details to the company offering the prize. If you would prefer us not to do this please state this on your entry.

Treat yourself to a week of feeling great with our

FREE SEVEN DAY PASS! Cut out this pass and present it at your local sports centre to claim your

FREE WEEK OF FITNESS!!!

The Taro Leisure Centre

Alton Sports Centre

01730 263996

01420 540040

Penns Place, Petersfield

Chawton Park Road, Alton

Fun and affordable childcare in the school holidays

Mill Chase Leisure Centre

Mill Chase Road, Bordon

01420 472549

7 DAY

FREE

The UK’s No.1 school holiday day camps

GYM PASS At your local Leisure Centre

Includes Gym, Workout Classes and Swimming

Book online at www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 467300 www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 3

News Monkey Music Fleet has opened a new venue Monkey Music classes are now running in the Sherfield Park Community Centre, Sunwood Drive, Sherfield-on-Loddon RG27 0FP. Contact Sue on 01252 501910 or fleet@monkeymusic.co.uk to book your complimentary class or see the local page on the Monkey Music website www.monkeymusic.co.uk for more details.

In 2 Tennis Alton Tennis Club runs a comprehensive tennis coaching programme for juniors and adults run by award winning coaching company In 2 Tennis. The programme runs Monday to Saturday, in line with the school terms.

This term the club launches its new courses for adults who have limited tennis experience. These BACK 2 TENNIS courses are running on Mondays 9.30am-10.30am and are an ideal way to improve your tennis skills quickly, get fit and meet new friends. The club also runs holiday camps during the holiday time.

See www.in2tenniscoaching.co.uk or call Marc on 07881 802078.

Welcome to Liphook Methodist Church

The Gruffalo comes home to the deep dark wood at Alice Holt Forest This year celebrate The Gruffalo’s 15th anniversary with characters from the world-famous picture books and explore Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s awardwinning tale through activity trails in Alice Holt Forest.

The fun-packed partnership kicks off with The Gruffalo activity trails which run through to the end of September, with The Gruffalo’s Child activity trails taking over in October and staying in Alice Holt Forest right through the winter until February 2015. Characters from the stories will lead children through the trees with adventure and intrigue, learning about woods and forests as they go.

Visitors are also invited to gather in Alice Holt Forest with family and friends on Saturday 7 June to celebrate The Gruffalo’s anniversary with a big birthday forest picnic – inspired by an exciting party pack of forest-inspired picnic ideas, activities and bunting, free to download this Spring from the Forestry Commission’s website www.forestry.gov.uk/gruffalo.

Foster Care Fortnight – 12 to 25 May The theme for this year’s Foster Care Fortnight is ‘Guess Who Fosters?’ In 2014 8,600 new foster families are needed to offer safe and secure homes to all children who are in need of them. If you think you have what it takes to be a foster carer, or would like more information, see www.fostering.net or www.hants.gov.uk/fostering.

During Lent members of different congregations came together on Saturdays to visit churches within the newly expanded church circuit. Each day started with a joint breakfast at one of the churches after which the group of walkers made their way to the next where they met for lunch and reflection. These events were well supported and stretched from Haslemere to Portchester.

On 18 May the Liphook Methodist Church celebrates their 83rd anniversary which coincides with the Annual Church Meeting and a Bring-and-Share lunch.

The church is looking for a pianist who can join their voluntary team on a Sunday morning. Please contact the secretary if you are able to help on secretary@liphookmethodist.org. For more information (including transcripts of many sermons) see www.liphookmethodist.org.

Don’t forget Father’s Day on 15th June!

Mums and Dads !!!

Are you always having to

and promotion, because you’re always juggling work with being a parent ??

I have incredible work from home opportunities and I’m looking for 3 types of people: RETAILERS - sales/customer care/product recommenders earning £300-£500 per month TEAM LEADERS - supporting a team of retailers earning £800-£1,500 per month BUSINESS DEVELOPERS - expanding teams throughout the UK, Europe and global - mentoring team leaders, training, support Flexible hours to suit, no boss, no staff, no targets

Sginspirations

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Contact Sarah Gallagher 07754 980707 Sginspirations@ hotmail.co.uk

News Carbon monoxide kills

National Smile Month – 19 May to 19 June

Have you got a carbon monoxide detector yet? If not, make sure you get one now.

National Smile Month is the UK’s largest and longest-running oral health campaign and promotes 3 key messages to promote a healthy mouth:

New figures reveal that over 650 people have died from carbon monoxide poisoning in the past 20 years. Now, a charity is calling for the introduction of public health warnings about the gas, as it is not only odourless and colourless but can kill in seconds. ‘Being a deadly gas which cannot be sensed by smell, taste, touch or hearing, it is vital that people are aware of the dangers and know the steps to take to reduce their risk of being poisoned,’ said Stephanie Trotter, president of CO-Gas Safety. ‘That is why we are calling for public warnings to be introduced, to advise families of the dangers and how to protect themselves.’

• B rush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste • C ut down on the amount of sugary drinks or food you consume • Visit your dentist regularly See www.nationalsmilemonth.org for more information.

Reduce your risk of CO poisoning by having all appliances regularly maintained and chimneys regularly swept and checked. Ensure that all vents are clear and never take a barbecue or stove into any interior space such as a tent, boat, caravan or home, even if you think it has burned out. Most importantly buy a CO alarm that works to standard EN 50291. www.gassaferegister.co.uk

WIN

www.co-gassafety.co.uk

Hatch Warren Community Association The Hatch Warren Community Association is a registered charity, run by volunteers from the local community. They host a fantastic array of events and classes throughout the year; including weekly Zumba and yoga classes, a new Burlesque class, a highly praised After School Club, theatre trips to London, the famous fireworks extravaganza, the notorious lager festival and much more! Become a member for only £10 per household and you get discounts on most events, as well as reductions on hall hire. See www.hatchwarren.org or call 01256 811 262.

Book Review When Charlie made a wish, by Megan Green

a Giant RoomMates Wall Sticker for the Nursery from Becky & Lolo.

Alton based Becky and Lolo is the one stop shop for baby and children’s gifts. Its aim and passion is to provide high quality, unique, fun and practical gifts for babies and children that are either exclusive to the UK or are difficult to find on the high street.

As such they source products from all around the world including items that have not reached the current market. The perfect example is their range of USA made re-positionable children’s wall stickers. Made of high-quality vinyl and using a simple ‘peel and stick’ method, each wall sticker can be easily removed and reused. With over 300 designs in the range, including Disney licensed, decorating a nursery or child’s bedroom has never been faster and more fun thanks to these stickers. One hundred percent stylish they don’t leave marks or sticky residue behind and priced from £13.99 a pack with full instructions enclosed, anyone can transform a room in minutes.

Also a number one stockist for back to school products including insulated lunch boxes and cool backpacks. Becky & Lolo pride themselves on picking vibrant ranges in designs and colours both boys and girls will love. www.beckyandlolo.co.uk

When Charlie made a wish...

by Megan Green

To be in with a chance of winning a Becky & Lolo RoomMates Wall Sticker, just answer this simple question:

illustrated by Alex Green

SC

Reviewed by children’s author, Barbara Townsend SM

What a clever concept, a real insight to when what we believe about ourselves turns out not to be true at all. An empowering story reminds us of how wonderful our children and we really are, giving each and everyone the confidence to make choices about our feelings every day.

What a great way to show children that they can be that person they feel they are.

A fantastic tool for children, families and schools to facilitate conversations which otherwise could be difficult to have.

RoomMates wall stickers are made in which country?

A: USA B: France C. China To enter, go to www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk/ competitions. Competition closes on 31st May 2014. Terms & conditions apply.

Available on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 5

Mums in business

Our regular feature where we talk to local mums running their own business, who share their experiences with you, as well as some of their favourite places. marketing strategy and then using a variety of tactics including public relations, social media, advertising, design and sales to deliver on objectives and generate growth.

Caroline loves the flexibility of being her own boss and not having to commute, but finds it a challenge not having an IT department to go to!

Being able to spend more time with her family is what makes it all worthwhile.

Caroline and her family have lived in Hartley Wintney for nearly 3 years and find it a very sociable village with a real sense of community.

Caroline Saunders – 4 C Marketing Caroline runs 4 C Marketing in Hartley Wintney, where she lives with her husband Mark, two year old son James, and their chocolate Labrador called Dave!

After the birth of her son, Caroline was looking for a flexible, part time working solution and decided that working for herself seemed the best way to do that and so she set up 4 C Marketing in June 2013. Whilst she found it scary at first, Caroline says she has been lucky enough to find work with some great clients and has managed to create a new family friendly career platform.

Caroline was lucky to make some great friends through the Bumps & Babies group in the village and there are many other activities and playgroups for children including Hartley Wintney Under 5s.

What our Mums in business say…

What no parent should be without • Sleep!

• A Jumperoo • Sense of humour • Patience • B aby wipes – for cleaning children and removing makeup!

Parenting pet hates

Other favourite family places to visit are the Wellington Country Park, Fleet Pond, and The Harvester restaurant in Fleet.

• Competitive mums

The best business advice Caroline has been given is don’t give anything away for free – that’s hard to stick to at times but important to remember that your time is your money. The best business advice Caroline would give to anyone is to be brave and believe in yourself.

• Perfect parents

www.4cmarketing.co.uk - www.facebook. com/4CMarketing - @4cmarketingco

• Matilda, by Roald Dahl

• A ntibacterial parenting – children need to get messy

Favourite children’s book • G iraffes can’t dance, by Giles Andreae & Guy Parker-Rees • The BFG, by Roald Dahl • G uess how much I love you, by Sam McBratney & Anita Jeram

4 C Marketing work with businesses to help them grow. They do this by determining a

Favourite children’s toys • Ride on horse

Pamela Moss – Sassy & Beau Pamela lives in Ropley, near Winchester, with her fiancé Dan, and two year old daughter Savanna (who is known as Sassy!), where she runs her makeup training academy Sassy & Beau.

Pamela had been a makeup artist for nearly 10 years and, as she had been inundated with requests for makeup advice or private lessons, decided to complete her teaching qualifications and the academy evolved from that nearly four years ago.

Pamela’s academy now runs full makeup courses for people looking to retrain for a new career, and private workshops for individuals

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looking to learn how to do their own makeup.

• Train set

Pamela enjoys the freedom of working for herself and finds her job very fulfilling, especially seeing girls become successful makeup artists in their own right. She does find trying to balance the time between her business and family life less enjoyable but after two years has just about got that organised!

• Playmobil

Pamela and her family have been living in Ropley for 18 months and she loves the tranquillity of the area - the little village shop also sells amazing chocolate cake! A family favourite for a day out is to Alice Holt Forest in Farnham, or to the beach in Bournemouth where they enjoy the Urban Reef restaurant in Boscombe. They also enjoy their local Pizza Express in Alresford which is family friendly and has lots of toys to entertain children.

The best business advice Pamela has ever been given is that you shouldn’t be afraid to admit that something isn’t working, and change your goals accordingly if necessary. When a lot of people start businesses they put their heart and soul into it and can get blinded by their goals trying to make it a success at all costs. If something isn’t working don’t be afraid to say so.

• Lego • Play kitchen

Returning to work?

Starting a business? ✓ Build your self-confidence ✓ Find a job that you’ll enjoy ✓ Update your CV and interview skills ✓ Sort out your business priorities ✓ Turn plans into action!

I have 15 years experience as a successful career and small-business coach & trainer.

The best business advice she would give to anyone is to plan, plan and plan some more – the more you plan the easier the first year will be.

Contact me for a free chat Graeme Cooper Email: gcooper@bluecrystalcoaching.co.uk Tel: 01256 460 407 Mobile: 07960 533 854

www.sassybeau.co.uk

www.bluecrystalcoaching.co.uk

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Childcare & Education News

The Sports Pavilion, Herriard Green, RG25 2PD Little Crickets is a small private nursery school set in a rural location serving the villages in the area.

Early Years funding is available.

With well qualified staff and a high staff/pupil ratio we aim to provide a wonderful start to your child’s education.

Walk that way It’s time to get walking again! This year’s Walk to School Week runs from 19-23 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren, teachers and parents. 2014’s campaign promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with plenty of fun ideas of how to get involved. With Strider’s 5-day Walking Challenge it’s easier than ever to take part, plus you also get a chance to win an iPad mini.

Walk to School Week reinforces five benefits of walking: safety, discovery, health, eco-friendly and social time, so how about setting up a Park & Stride area around your school, or holding a Walk to School event and encouraging everyone to leave their cars at home for a day? Another great idea is to team up with neighbouring schools and organise a walking relay between schools, with refreshment stops at each one! Or you could nominate your dream walking companion from the world of books and dress up as them on Walk to School Day. A treasure hunt is a fun way to add a bit of competition on the walk to school, too. Just remember to have fun! Download loads of puzzles, pledges and challenges at www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-with-us/ walk-to-school/walk-to-school-week-2014.

Oscars ceremony at King’s Furlong Infant School Year 1 and Year 2 pupils at King’s Furlong Infant School were presented with their very own awards at the school’s inaugural Oscars ceremony held on the evening of 13th February.

The children had spent 4 weeks working in small groups to create 2 minutes’ worth of film each, inspired by author Oliver Jeffers’ book ‘Lost and Found’, using stop-animation techniques and models, settings and characters they had made themselves. Oliver Jeffers himself sent the children a video message congratulating them on their work and members of staff pretended to be the paparazzi, taking photos of the children as they made their way down the red carpet on the night! Libby Wyatt, Headteacher, and Peter Mitchener, Chair of Governors, made the awards in front of the assembled friends and families of the ‘stars’ involved - and everyone agreed there has never been a more worthwhile or enjoyable Oscars night!

Contact: Nicky Van der Gucht Email:littlecrickets.herriard@gmail.com Tel:01256 384114 www.littlecricketsherriard.co.uk

Barfield EYFS is “Outstanding”!

Barfield School’s EYFS department is delighted to have been awarded the accolade of “Outstanding” in all areas by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

The inspectors found the department to be performing at a very high standard across the board, with a “highly skilled and dynamic” team of staff.

Barfield is a co-educational school for children between 2-13 years old, set in 12 acres of beautiful grounds, one mile east of Farnham. The nursery is newly refurbished and has airy rooms which are light, uncluttered and conducive to learning.

Barfield pupils receive a broad educational experience, with quality academic teaching in an excellent pastoral setting. With small class sizes, the staff know the children extremely well and are able to tailor an individual, rigorous, academic education to suit each child. Scholarships are offered in Year 3 and Year 7 with awards of up to 50% to those with talents in academia, art, music and sport.

Barfield children are often outside: they regularly attend forest schools and have access to low ropes courses and adventures from Three Peaks. Sport is an important aspect of Barfield life.

The indoor pool allows them to swim all year, right from age two, so standards are high.

The next open day is on Saturday 17th May 2014. www.barfieldschool.com

Oakwood Community Playgroup St John’s Road, Hartley Wintney, RG27 8DW Tel: 01252 845924

May Fair Come and join in the fun!

Stalls games tombola Saturday 10th May 11am-4pm Raising money for the children of Oakwood Playgroup www.oakwoodplaygroup.org.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 7

Childcare & Education News Toddlers and Babies at St Neot’s Preparatory school treat their Mummies to cuddles and cake!

Tiny Tuskers Babies and Toddlers at St Neot’s Preparatory school celebrated Mother’s Day by inviting their Mummies in for cake and cuddles. Parents were able to chat and watch their children playing and the children loved being able to show their Mummies what they get up to in Tiny Tuskers.

Head of Tiny Tuskers, Keira Johnson, commented: “We thought we would spoil Mummies with a Mother’s Day ‘cake and cuddles’ afternoon, it was lovely to see so many people here joining in the fun at Tiny Tuskers. It’s the turn of the Daddies next for Father’s Day!” Toddler Ted’s Mum added: “It was a real treat to see the children having fun, and watch them interacting. Thanks girls!”

Share your stories This May sees the return of National ShareA-Story Month, an annual celebration of the power of storytelling and story sharing. Run by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups, Share-A-Story Month is a fantastic opportunity to bring children and stories together, with a whole host of events running across the country. The theme for 2014 is ‘Imagination and Inventiveness’, celebrating with Dahl & Dahl and Puffin Publishers the 50th Anniversary of the publication of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’. Check out the website for plenty of ideas, activity packs, posters and competition prizes. www.fcbg.org.uk/national-share-a-story-month.

The Gove revolution continues… …as the Education Secretary pledges an increase to Latin and Greek in state secondary schools, as well as suggesting that all secondary schools put their 13-year-olds forward to sit the Common Entrance Exam, in a move to give schools an insight into how their pupils are doing. ‘Since the last Labour government abolished key stage three tests for 14-year-olds, we have had no rigorous externally-set and marked measures of progress for students in the first five years of secondary school,’ Michael Gove said. ‘I want state schools to try out Common Entrance exams - giving them a chance to check how well they and their pupils are performing against some of the top schools around the world.’ He also encourages schools to stay open for up to 10 hours a day, allowing time for structured homework sessions but also for after-school sports matches, orchestra rehearsals and clubs. His plans received a mixed reception however, with Russell Hobby, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers saying, ‘We have no problem with schools staying open for longer provided most of those additional hours are used for extracurricular activities. We need to be clear on where the money will come from to fund the extra staffing required, given that teachers are already working a 48-hour week on average under the current arrangements.’ Christine Blower, general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, added, ‘The push for longer school days of up to 10 hours will be counterproductive for many children and young people.

Primary school pupils in particular will find it very difficult to concentrate or even stay awake for such long periods.’

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Local Independent School Open Days Alton Convent Prep School, Anstey Lane, Alton Tel. 01420 82070 www.altonconvent.org.uk Open day: 17th May 10am to 1pm

Highfield & Brookham School, Highfield Lane, Liphook Tel. 01428 728000 www.highfieldschool.org.uk Open days: 17th May 9.30am to 12 noon (Highfield); 19th May 9.30am to 11.30am (Brookham)

Barfield School, Guildford Road, Farnham Tel. 01252 782271 www.barfieldschool.com Open day: 17th May from 9.30am

Rookwood School – Paddock Prep, Weyhill Rd, Andover Tel. 01264 325912 www.rookwood.hants.sch.uk Open days: 7th May & 25th September 9.30am to 12.30pm

Churcher’s College Junior School, Midhurst Rd, Liphook Tel. 01730 236870 www.churcherscollege.com Open day: 17th May 9.30am to 1pm

St Neot’s School, Eversley, Hook 0118 9739650 www.st-neots-prep.co.uk Open day: 9th May 9.30am to 11.30am

Churcher’s College Senior School, Ramshill, Petersfield Tel. 01730 263033 www.churcherscollege.com Open day: 28th June 10am to 2pm

St Nicholas’ School, Redfields Lane, Church Crookham Tel. 01252 850121 www.st-nicholas. hants.sch.uk Open day: 14th May 6pm to 8pm

Contact the school for details of their next open days: Daneshill School, Stratfield Turgis, Hook Tel. 01256 882707 www.daneshillprepschool.com

The Grey House School, Mount Pleasant, Hartley Wintney Tel. 01252 842353 www.greyhouseschool.com

Farleigh School, Red Rice, Andover Tel. 01264 710766 www.farleighschool.com

The King’s School, Sarum Hill, Basingstoke Tel. 01256 467092 www.bccnet.org.uk/kings-school

Sherfield Prep School, Sherfield-on-Loddon, Hook Tel. 01256 884800 www.sherfieldschool.co.uk

Yateley Manor, Reading Rd, Yateley Tel. 01252 405500 www.yateleymanor.com

Barfield Nursery “Outstanding”

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

ISI Report 2013

01252 782271 • admin@barfieldschool.com • www.barfieldschool.com Registered in England. Company No. 755754 - Registered Charity No 312085

Birthday Parties Fabulous parties at every age A birthday party is a ritual of childhood and an event that’s remembered forever.

So the pressure is on – how do you ensure success and survival (both your own and your home’s)? Joanna Moorhead guides you through what’s best, age by age.

The golden rules • N ever have a party that lasts more than two hours.

• T he younger the child, the fewer the guests.

• P arty bags can be cheap as chips, thanks to charity and pound shops – but always have them, they’re hugely popular.

• H ave a plan mapped out for what should happen and when.

• K eep food simple and don’t overwhelm guests with too much; do provide options though so everyone is catered for.

0 - 3 years There’s just one word that matters here: simplicity. Birthday parties for little ones can be marvellous, memorable affairs, but they don’t need to be elaborate or to involve much expense or entertainment.

In essence, you’re catering for the grownups as much as for the children – because at this stage, the adults will definitely stay (and you’re more than likely to have a few grandparents in the mix as well).

Concentrate on creating a fun, easy, safe space for the children – a soft play space with plenty of toys strewn around is ideal – and make sure the adults are well catered for: if they stay calm, the children will as well. If you want something with a bit of a theme, how about a teddy bears’ picnic?

Make sure everyone remembers to take their favourite bear home at the end though, or there will be tears at bedtime!

4 - 6 years At this stage parties can be a bit more ambitious and a time when it is well worth investing in a great entertainer: they are experts, know how to crowd control while producing shrieks and honest laughs.

However don’t assume that to put on a great bash you need to spend lots of money. At this age children can have loads of fun without a big outlay; later on, when they’re tweens and teens, you’ll be under pressure to shell out big-time, so don’t pre-empt that now. A party at home or in the local park can be huge fun; traditional party games will be popular,

and if you want to push the boat out a bit consider investing in a bouncy castle; or if home really isn’t a possibility, a soft play centre will be hassle-free, if more expensive. Themed parties are great for this age group, and they actually make life simpler for the party organiser: a pirate theme is always popular, or sea creatures, or pick up on your child’s favourite book or TV programme. Dressing up is a big hit for this age group too.

7 - 9 years Activities work a treat at this stage, whether you’re at home or in a church hall or at a park. For a popular and lowbudget option, think about a baking party at home – weigh out all the ingredients before the children arrive, get them to mix and decorate them and then pop them in the oven to bake while you play a few party games (shortbread biscuits are easy; have a range of cutters for exciting shapes).

10 -12 years Older children like going out to party.

To keep the costs down, encourage a smaller number of guests – think about a trip to the seaside or to an exciting adventure playground they’ve not visited before, and remember that the journey can be as much fun as the activity at the end of it. If you don’t mind spending a bit more, a trip to a climbing wall, an ice rink, a bowling alley or a go-karting centre can be wonderful fun too.

• K eep things simple – overcomplicated arrangements will be stressful for everyone involved.

Here are some other party tips from Hampshire North parents via our Facebook page: “An alternative to regular party bags is to do a lucky dip of tiny party bag toys each wrapped up in a box of shredded paper, and have a separate big basket of sweets.

At the end of the party each child gets a dip in each box as they leave.” Anne-Marie “I find preparing food boxes for each child saves a lot of waste.” Karina “If you’re on a budget you can reuse foil balloons if you are careful when letting them down. The nice lady at the party shop told me that!” Kirsty “I read somewhere about having the same number of guests as your child’s age.

We’ve done this since our oldest was three.

Not sure what age we will continue this to though!” Lisa “Don’t forget to write thank you letters for any gifts received. I’m always disappointed by how many parents don’t bother with this simple act of courtesy. I know it’s something else to do but it’s rude not to thank people.” Sara

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 9

Birthday Parties

Party review – Miller’s Ark Animals Reviewed by Sara Dawson, Editor Stuck for an original party idea for our daughter’s 4th birthday I consulted the Party Directory I was compiling for this issue and decided to see what Miller’s Ark Animals in Hook (near Basingstoke) had to offer. The detail on their website gave good information in terms of what a birthday party would consist of grooming donkeys, cuddling lambs, tickling pigs, handling of other small animals, as well as an optional ride on the land train and a play in the straw barn – which certainly ticked all the boxes in terms of originality and so we signed up and paid our deposit.

Of course, original comes with a price and even the cheapest ‘Bronze’ package where you provide your own food (which we went for) costs more than the average soft play type party, so we were a bit apprehensive before the day as to whether it would be worth the money. It was though, every penny of it as far as we were concerned. We had exclusive use of the farm for the two hour period of the party, two personal party guides facilitating the animal activities, and there didn’t seem to be an animal that wasn’t stroked, cuddled or groomed by our little band of intrepid four year olds!

Carole looked after us along with Kirsty, and between them gave our group the best time, having so much fun with the animals. After that came a ride on Looby Loo the land train, followed by the party lunch in the tea barn. As we had gone for the no food option I had expected to be just left to get on with it at this stage, but Carole stayed on hand making sure

everything was in order and also to ensure that all the mums and dads had a cup of tea or coffee!

Any negatives? Well, the tea barn was a little dark at first but you got used to it once your eyesight adjusted – it was also chilly on arrival but they did put the heating on for lunch which warmed it up very quickly. The biggest negative for us though was that our camera failed to save any of the lovely photos we had taken – fortunately many of the mums and dads had been snapping away so all was not lost!

This was by far the best birthday party our daughter Katie has had yet and I would have no hesitation in recommending Miller’s Ark Animals as a party venue, and look forward to returning there for a visit on one of their open days very soon. www.millersark.co.uk

Don’t forget the photos…!

Local photographer Yasmin Mason gives us her advice on how to get the best birthday party photos.

Children’s birthday parties are fun, loud and often chaotic. Most of the time parents forget about the photos until the actual day, then quickly grab their pocket camera or smart phone and snap away as quickly as they can! This leads to an even more chaotic situation. You have flashes going off left right and centre, you’re worried you haven’t got ‘the shot with the cake’, you’re shouting instructions at your partner, all the while you’re trying to spend time with your little one on their special day!

Sound familiar? I can certainly relate as this has happened to me so many times. So I have come up with a few tips to help you capture those special memories.

1. Plan. It’s so simple, but so very effective. Sit down before the party and just write down on a piece of paper the rough schedule for the day. List out the milestones (opening presents, blowing out the candles, pin the tail on the donkey etc.) so you know what moments are important to capture.

2. Decide who is taking ‘the’ photos. By this I mean, will it be you or your partner taking those milestone images, or a friend or a family member perhaps? There should be one person in charge of getting those key images, so you can relax and know it’s all taken care of.

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3. Get down to their level. Try photographing your little ones with you sitting on the floor, or kneeling down in front of them.

Try to get down to their head height so you can capture those expressions on their face, rather than the top of their heads.

4. Don’t forget the details. You’ve spent so much time planning and making those beautiful little details like the cake, decorations and food, so don’t forget to take a snap before the party is in full swing.

5. Finally, the finished product. So you’ve taken the PERFECT party photos. What are you going to do now? Will they go in a photobook?

Will you have them printed and popped into a memory album? Try and think of a creative way to display these amazing images so that they don’t just sit on your camera until next year!

Have fun! www.yasminanne.co.uk

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Birthday Parties

Party Directory Directory of selected party venues, entertainers & suppliers in Hampshire North.

See our website for a slightly longer list… www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk/directory/childrensbirthdayparties

Venues with facilities to hire Alton Assembly Rooms 01420 82203 www.altonassemblyrooms.com Alton Community Centre 01420 85057 www.altoncommunitycentre.org.uk Alton Maltings Centre 01420 81950 www.altonmaltingscentre.com Beech Village Hall www.beechvillage.org.uk Chineham Village Hall 01256 842745 www.chinehamvillagehall.co.uk Cliddesden Millennium Hall 01256 461034 www.cliddesden-hall@hampshire.org.uk Elizabeth Hall - Hook 01256 760442 www.hookvillagehalls.org.uk Greatham Village Hall 01420 538310 www.greathamvillagehall.co.uk

Hatch Warren Community Centre If you’re a member of the community association you get a reduction on hire charges!

01256 811262 www.hatchwarren.org Holybourne Village Hall 01420 549074 www.holybourne.com Lychpit Community Hall 01256 474280 www.oldbasing.gov.uk Old Basing Village Hall 01256 477637 Overton Community Centre 01256 770061 Rooksdown Community Centre 0844 3305231 www.rooksdownonline.com Sherfield Park Community Centre 01256 883967 www.sherfieldparkcommunity.co.uk Sherborne St John Village Hall www.ssjvillage.org

The Gill Nethercott Centre 01256 896270 www.gillnethercottcentre.org.uk

Venues for organised parties Active Monkeys Soft Play and Party Centre Party options for all budgets and the best fun in town. Hot/ cold party food with unlimited squash, party bags and birthday cake included.

Platters and flasks available for adult guests.

01252 627955 www.activemonkeys.co.uk Alton Sports Centre Various sports related and soft play party options.

01420 540040 www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk/centres/ alton-sports-centre/ Aristology at The Proteus Creation Space Providing catering, party bags, balloon modellers and more!

01256 321621 www.proteustheatre.com

Asomo Crafts A SPACE OF MY OWN

Amazing creative space available for children’s parties.

Lots of projects to choose from - hats, masks, paper crafts, fabric painting and much more. All you need to do is bring the food!

Finkley Down Farm Activity farm with two party options, both involving the animals!

01264 324141 www.finkleydownfarm.co.uk Fun House Soft play centre hosting children’s parties.

01256 471066 www.funhousebasingstoke.co.uk JJ’s Soft play centre hosting children’s parties.

01256 350544 www.jjsplay.com Miller’s Ark Animals Activity farm with three different party options – you can also add on a ride on the land train! See review on page 10.

01256 767596 www.millersark.co.uk Newlyns Farm Young chefs cooking party with a difference!

01256 704128 www.newlyns-farmshop.co.uk Planet Ice Skating session plus party tea - you can add on extras if you want more.

01256 355266 www.planet-ice.co.uk Playdays Soft play centre hosting children’s parties.

01256 346173 www.playdays-basingstoke.co.uk Sports Xtra Basingstoke Various sports and activity themed parties.

07968 956549 www.sports-xtra.com

Each party is unique, recent themes include space adventures, ballet, jewellery, pirates, designer T-shirts, hairslides and mermaids. Felting, printing, weaving or sewing also possible for older children.

Exclusive use of premises available Friday or Saturday afternoons. Call 01252 844210 for more information. www.asomocrafts.co.uk Basingstoke Sports Centre Various sports related and soft play party options.

01256 326331 www.sportscentre.org.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 11

Birthday Parties Entertainers

Suppliers – cakes, sweets & balloons iCandy Bouquets Original confectionary gifts in various displays.

07909 808976 www.icandybouquets.com

PARTIES www.boppingparties.co.uk

Party Workshop Everything you need for any kind of party.

01256 329414 www.partyworkshop.co.uk

Bopping Parties Bopping Parties are ‘disco’ themed parties tailored and aimed at children between the ages of 2 and 12 years. A party includes a wide range of fantastic party tunes plus great action songs for younger children, an assortment of fun games and activities plus prizes, a variety of exciting dancing props and bubbles etc. Bopping Parties can create bespoke themed events with specific games and activities included e.g. Pirates & Princesses. Please enquire on info@ boppingparties.co.uk or 01256 884150. www.boppingparties.co.uk

Children’s Themed Parties Children’s Themed Parties have been entertaining children at parties and events with themed character entertainment, across the south, for over 17 years. Our aim is to the take children on a fun adventure during their birthday party with games and ideas which are unique and original to the party theme. We want to give parents a value for money, stress-free experience when planning and holding any children’s party or event. Party themes include Pirates, Fairies, Princess, Superhero, and many more.

01252 682500 www.ctpparty.co.uk

Routine Riots DANCE PARTIES * PRINCESS PARTIES * FACE PAINTING Magical princess parties to enchant and entertain your little ones. Interactive story time, games, dancing and fun! Lots of characters to choose from including Elsa from May 2014! 3-8yrs.

Is your child always dancing around the house? Check out our dance parties 3-5yrs and 6yrs+.

We do parties for grown-ups too!

Contact kim@routineriots.co.uk 07553 866 366 www.routineriots.co.uk

PARTIES www.boppingparties.co.uk

2 to 12 yrs Available to hire for private party bookings

Fantastic Party Tunes * Games plus Prizes Disco Props & Kids Toys * Bubble Machine Madness

For ALL enquiries call 01256 884150 or email info@boppingbabies.co.uk

www.facebook.com/www.boppingbabies.co.uk

ADVERTISE in THIS SPACE

Every Wednesday at 10am (Term Time only) @

BABIES

www.BoppingBabies.co.uk

Contact Sara Dawson on 01256 330147 or email editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

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Sweets n Treats We are a traditional sweet shop with all the weighed sweets and old favourites that you remember from your childhood. But we are also far more than just a sweet shop. We can supply sweets/chocolates/balloons/party bags, in fact anything you need for your party/wedding/event, please come and see us, and if it is not in stock, we can order it for you. How about a sweet tree, or a sweet cake? These can be made with most sweets and make a stunning table display. So look no further than Sweets ‘n Treats for all your party or sweet requirements.

01252 844360 www.sweetsntreats.me.uk Swirleeze Sweet Shop Providing lovely traditional sweets as party favours.

01256 395110 www.swirleeze.co.uk

Monkey Music Singing, dancing and musical party games.

Basingstoke: 01256 359119 Fleet: 01252 501910 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Neon Fairy Face Painting Add a sprinkle of colourful magic to your event!

07926 671015 www.neonfairyfacepainting.co.uk

Rainbow Cakes Small bespoke celebration cake and wedding cake company.

01256 880166 www.rainbowcakes.biz

Chineham Village Hall

A SPACE OF MY OWN Creative space with a range of classes for all ages. Try something new or relax with like-minded people. Freestyle sessions, 1-2-1 tuition, team-building events and parties, using recycled materials where possible. Pre-School Art Club every Wed & Fri, including holidays.

Pay as you go (No booking required)

Every Friday

Pre-school disco fun, dance and play sessions

at 10am &11am (Term Time only) @

**Fantastic disco tunes** **Fantastic bubble machine!** **Fantastic Disco Props**

Pre-booking required per term

Wellington Country Park

**INCLUDES 1 HOUR OF FREE PLAY in the Park Afterwards!!!!**

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Open 9am-2pm every day except Sunday, & some evenings Hartley Mews, Hartley Wintney, Hampshire, RG27 8NX Tel: 01252 844210

www.asomocrafts.co.uk

WHat’s ON Half Term Activities at Andover Museum

Brilliant Bushcraft with Nigel

Andover, SP10 1DP

28th May

Who am I? 24th to 31st May

Learn bushcraft skills - food round the campfire, den building and a whole lot more!

Tue to Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am4pm. Admission Free.

For more information and to book call 01420 476808 / 07989 652757, visit www. wildernesswatch.co or email caroline.netley@sky.com. Ages 8+. 11am-2pm. £12 per child.

Belts & Brooches

Campfire and Food

28th May

29th May

Make your own Iron Age belt buckle or brooch in this facilitated session.

Learn essential camp skills - fire lighting and tasty cooking. Join Ranger Nigel for an outdoor forest lunch.

Self-led trail. Follow the trail and see if you can piece together the life of a local Victorian!

10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm3.30pm. £2.50. Advance booking recommended.

Ages 8+. 2pm-4pm. £8 per child.

www.hants.gov.uk/andovermuseum

Booking is essential for all activities & events at Alice Holt.

Call 01420 23666 or see www.forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt.

Meet Peppa Pig at the Watercress Line!

Young Chef Courses

Alresford, SO24 9JG 26th May to 1st June

Newlyns Farm Shop, North Warnborough, RG29 1HA 27th to 30th May

NCT - Hants North East Bumps, Babies & Toddler Stay and Play – every Thursday Turners Wood Children’s Centre, Elvetham Heath. 2pm-4pm.

NCT – Alton & Bordon Bumps & Babes Every Thursday – Bushy Leaze Children’s Centre, Alton. 10am to 12 noon.

NCT – Camberley & Yateley Bumps & Babies – every Monday St Andrew’s Church Hall, Frimley Green.

10.30am-12 noon.

Happy Daze Baby & Toddler Group Every Tuesday – Alton Maltings Centre, Alton. 9.30am to 11.30am. £1.50 per family.

Contact your local NCT branch for more details or see www.nct.org.uk

Baby & Toddler First Aid Course 7th May – Alton Maltings Centre, Alton. 6.50pm-9.30pm. £25 or £40 for couples. Booking is essential.

For more details or to book call Barbara on 01420 541576 or altonbordonnct@googlemail.com.

NCT - Basingstoke B.A.B.I.E.S. Breastfeeding drop-in – every Friday Brookvale Village Hall, Basingstoke.

10am-11.30am. Free breastfeeding support & help to all new mothers in the Basingstoke area.

Baby First Aid Course – 10th May Everest Community Academy, Oxford Way, Basingstoke. 10am-12.30pm and 1.30pm-4pm. £25 or £45 for couples. Booking is essential.

Baby & Children’s Market - Nearly New Sales Nearly New Sale – 10th May Aldworth Science College, Basingstoke. 2pm-4pm. Contact tom@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Nearly New Sale – 18th May The Key Centre, Elvetham Heath, Fleet.

2pm-4pm. £1 admission fee – children free. Free parking available. Contact suehopkins@babyandchildrensmarket. co.uk.

See www.babyandchildrensmarkets. co.uk for more information or future dates

Perform/Perform Plus

Drama, dance & singing workshops in Basingstoke & Fleet

Children’s favourite Peppa Pig will be making personal appearances at various intervals every day at Alresford Station. Do some of her colouring, watch her DVD show and have your face painted. Visit the petting farm at Ropley Station to tickle the piglets tummies!

Cookery courses providing young chefs with the opportunity to learn new skills which will last them a lifetime.

Normal opening times. Adults £17, children (2-16) £9, family (2+2) £43.

27th to 30th May

Perform - for 4-8 year olds: dive down to a magical world full of watery adventures; learn to dance The Fishy Funk and by the end of term rescue the Lost Pearl from the scary Deep Sea Creature.

www.watercressline.co.uk

Giving children between the ages of 5 and 12 a great time during their school holidays in a healthy, positive and safe environment.

Activities at Alice Holt Forest

Venues: Greenfields Junior School, Hartley Wintney - Alton Convent School, Alton - Alton Sports Centre, Alton.

Perform Plus - for 8-12 year olds: rehearse a mini-musical called ‘Robinson Crusoe in Space’. This space age version of the castaway survival classic has been transformed into an explosive show.

Ages 8-12. £47-£65. Advance booking required. www.newlyns-farmshop.co.uk

Drama, dance and singing workshops for 4-12 year olds that focus on helping to develop and boost children’s confidence, creativity and concentration skills. Perform is not a stage school but will help give your child amazing social skills and the best fun of their week.

The following activities are on from April to July:

Holiday Activity Weeks

See www.perform.org.uk or to book a FREE trial session call 0845 4004000 or email enquiries@perform.org.uk.

www.supersportz.co.uk

**SPECIAL READER OFFER - £40 DISCOUNT WHEN BOOKING A BLOCK OF 10 SESSIONS** quote HAMP270514.

Expires 27th May 2014.

Magic Forest in a Box

Easy Origami

Your local Perform/Perform Plus classes are:

27th May

The Allen Gallery, Alton, GU34 2BW

Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS

The woodland world in miniature comes to life. Create your own little forest that continues to grow at home. Use natural materials collected from your walk plus soil and seeds to fill your boxes.

Ages 6+. 10.30am-12 noon. £6 per child.

29th May Join in to make some paper sculptures. Facilitated drop-in activity.

10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm3pm. Free entry. www.hants.gov.uk/allen-gallery

Venue

Perform

Perform Plus

Hatch Warren Community Centre, Long Cross Lane, Hatch Warren, RG22 4XF

Tuesdays 4pm and 5pm

No Perform Plus class

Zebon Copse Community Centre, Danvers Drive, Church Crookham, GU52 0ZE

Mondays 4pm and 5pm Tuesdays 3.45pm

Tuesdays 4.45pm

Clift Meadow Pavilion, Michens Lane, Bramley, RG26 5BH

Fridays 4pm and 5pm

No Perform Plus class

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 13

WHat’s ON www.watercressline.co.uk

Out & about Spinning a YarnWeaving Story Whitchurch Silk Mill, Whitchurch, RG28 7AL 4th March to 31st May Exhibition. Janet Steer has been on a journey investigating storytelling, drawing parallels with walking and expressing her ideas using the rich vocabulary of clothspinning a yarn and weaving a story.

Tuesday to Sunday 10.30am5pm. Adults £4.50, children (5-16) £2.50, family £10.

Cruises depart from Colt Hill, Odiham at 2.30pm, with an additional cruise at 11am on 5th and 26th May. Adults £8, children under 16 £5, family £25. Booking is strongly recommended.

Pirate Fancy Dress

30th May

10.30am and 2.30pm. 2 to 2 ½ hour trip. Adults £9, children under 16 £6.

14 & 15 JUNE 2014

www.basingstoke-canal.org.uk/ jp/public-trips/

www.whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk

Art from the Heart Events at the Andover Museum Andover, SP10 1DP

A Family Affair Art Exhibition 29th March to 10th May This exhibition is brought to you

by John Randall, his sister Anne Taplin, and his nephew Paul Whitefield.

Journeys through Stitch 17th May to 21st June Exhibition by the Andover Embroiderers Guild to show what they can do with textiles and stitch encompassing traditional and contemporary design.

The Games We Played Exhibition 28th June to 13th September A nostalgic exhibition exploring some of the most popular (and some less well-known) board and card games from the 1920s through to the 1970s.

Tue to Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am4pm. Free admission. See www. hants.gov.uk/andover-museum.

John Pinkerton Canal Cruises Basingstoke Canal, Odiham, RG29 1AL 4th 5th 25th & 26th May and 8th & 22nd June Enjoy a leisurely 2 to 2 ½ hour cruise along the Basingstoke Canal on the John Pinkerton II canal boat. The bar is open on all cruises, and light refreshments can be purchased.

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Willis Museum, Basingstoke, RG21 7QD 5th April to 10th May An exhibition of work produced by the children and families supported by Sebastian’s Action Trust through art therapy sessions and workshops.

CALL 01962 733810 TO FIND OUT MORE OR CLICKETY CLICK TO WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

Tue to Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am4pm. Admission Free. www.hants.gov.uk/willismuseum

Wellbeing of Women – Garden & Gift Fair

GROWING2GETHER Annual Open Day

Dummer Cricket Centre, Dummer, RG25 2AR

Cottismore Park, Kingsclere, RG20 4SY

8th May

17th May

From the atmosphere of the traditional fairground, to riding on the steam railways, or wandering through the woodland gardens, there’s something for all ages.

80+ stalls, including a diverse range of specialist nurseries.

New stalls for home and garden. Excellent home produce as well as a tombola and more!

11am-5pm. Adults £14, children (3-15) £10.

Lunch and light refreshments available.

This organisation which specialises in horticultural therapy is holding its annual open day on 17th May. Sale pf plants, seasonal produce, hanging baskets etc. Refreshments and assorted stalls. Enjoy a walk around their 3.5 acre site.

www.hollycombe.co.uk

9.30am-3.30pm. Tickets £5.

10am-3pm. Free admission and parking.

www.wellbeingofwomen.org.uk

www.growing2gether.org

Alder Bridge School, Mill Lane, Padworth, RG7 4JU

Parkinsons UK Run Highclere

Events at the Watercress Line

3rd May

Highclere Castle, Newbury, RG20 9RN

Hollycombe, Steam in the Country Liphook, GU30 7LP 6th April to 12th October

May Fayre

Annual May Fayre on Saturday 3rd May. Enjoy live music, maypole dancing, traditional games and make beautiful flower garlands. Refreshments include a BBQ, and tea and homemade cakes.

A guided tour of the school will also be available.

11th May Parkinson’s UK request the pleasure of your company for their scenic 10K road race and kids’ fun run set in the beautiful grounds of Highclere Castle.

Free entry. 11.30am-3pm.

11am. Kids’ run starts 10.30am. £18 advance or £25 on the day.

Kids’ fun run £5.

www.alderbridge.org.uk

www.parkinsons.org.uk

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Alresford, SO24 9JG

Alresford Watercress Festival 18th May Nationally acclaimed festival draws together the local community and food lovers from far and wide for a FREE day of food and fun to celebrate the local watercress! Enjoy a FREE ride on the Watercress Line from the park and ride at Ropley Station.

We take every care preparing these entries but please check websites in case details have changed.

War on the Line

Tudor Weekend

Family Bushcraft

14th & 15th June

31st May to 1st June

28th June

Popular WWII living history event with civilian and military reenactors and vehicles. This year they will be marking the 100th Anniversary of WWI and the 70th Anniversary of D-Day.

21st & 22nd June

Discover the secrets of the forest around the camp fire. From ancient fire lighting, to building a hunting shelter, seasonal crafts and a spot of open fire cooking.

Bring your own packed lunch but refreshments will be available all day.

Adults £18, children (2-16) £10, family (2+2) £46.

Dene Rally 21st & 22nd June The third annual steam and vintage rally at the Watercress Line. Over 150 vintage steam and traction engines, tractors, cars, motorbikes and much more!

Great fun for all the family.

Experience a sample of Tudor life. Have a go at some archery (£3 for 6 arrows) and see the Tudor Roses group around the site dressed in Tudor noble finery.

Treat yourself to a tasty hog roast and a pint of local beer. There will be Tudor trails for children around the grounds and house.

11am-4pm.

Normal admission charges apply. Additional cost for some activities. See www. nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne for more details.

Venues across Basingstoke 20th June – 13th July The annual flagship event to promote the borough by showcasing arts & cultural organisations alongside the wealth of community organisations engaged in a broad range of cultural pursuits. There is a full programme of events running over the summer months. www.basingstokefestival.co.uk

Adults £5, children (2-16) £3, family (2+2) £13.

Sylvanian Families Shopping Weekend

www.watercressline.co.uk

Gill Nethercott Centre & Whitchurch Silk Mill, Whitchurch, RG28 7HP

Disco Skate

Basingstoke Festival

Activities at Alice Holt Forest Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS

Alton Leisure Centre, Alton, GU34 1ST 3rd May & 7th June The Harlington, Fleet, GU51 4BY 23rd May & 27th June DISCO SKATE bring you family roller disco nights once a month. £6 per person inc. skate hire. www.discoskate.co.uk

Events at The Vyne, National Trust Vyne Rd, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL

50 Things Weekend 24th & 25th May Discover the 50 things to do before you’re 11 ¾. Walk around our site and try to do as many of the activities as possible! Stamp them off your 50 Things book as you go around. 11am-4pm.

14th & 15th June The Sylvanian Families shop in London is having a weekend away! Widest range of Sylvanian Families for sale, plus lots of special offers and competitions, creative activities, display marquee and best of all, visits from your favourite Sylvanian characters!

10am-4pm. FREE entry to Community Centre and Silk Mill on both days. www.sylvanianstorekeepers. com

Insect Week 23rd - 29th June The forest is home, supermarket and nightclub to hundreds of different insects; pollinators, predators, pests, parasites and prey. Drop by the visitor centre for facts, activities and inspiration on the fascinating world of insects.

Creepy Crawlies and Clay Critters 23rd June After some exciting mini-beast hunting settle down to mould your own clay critters to take home.

Ages 3-5. 10.30am-11.30am and 1.30pm-2.30pm. £4 per child.

All ages. 10am-4pm. Adults £25, under 16s £15, under 3s free.

Minimum one adult per group. To book call Mollie on 07979 321369 or email info@fieldfarmproject. com.

Booking is essential for all activities & events at Alice Holt.

Call 01420 23666 or see www. forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt.

Family Fun Day The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre, Bordon, GU35 0LR 28th June The Phoenix Theatre’s Family Fun Day is a fantastic day out packed with exciting things to do for all the family. There will also be a BBQ and a variety of fun workshops and activities. It wouldn’t be the Phoenix Family Fun Day without the ‘Fun Dog Show’, so if you’ve got a dog you think might be in with a chance, bring them along and maybe they will win a prize.

Free entry. 10am-4pm. www.phoenixarts.co.uk

Summer Picnic in the Meadow Hawk Conservancy Trust, Andover, SP11 8DY 28th June Fundraising event in association with Sing-for-Fun, Andover.

Bring a picnic to enjoy a glorious summer’s evening in Reg’s wildflower meadow. Choir music and flying displays by some of the Trust’s feathered stars.

7pm. All tickets £10.50.

Dragonfly Safari

www.hawk-conservancy.org

25th June

we

Summer...

Exciting forest activities for all ages.

Gruffalo Trail and birthday picnic, magic forest in a box, brilliant bushcraft, campfire and food and more!

fo at: More in

forestry.gov. uk/gruffalo

Booking essential call 01420 23666 forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt Alice Holt Forest

Are you mad about insects, barmy about bugs? Join in on an after school safari to find forest and pond insects, then create your own beautiful dragonfly.

Ages 8+. 4:30pm-6pm. £6 per child.

If you have an event you’d like to list in these pages please contact the editor on 01256 330147 or editor@ familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

L.T.A. Great British Tennis Open Day Alton Tennis Club, Alton, GU34 1ST 29th June Come along and have a game. Parents & children all welcome. Mini tennis available for the little ones. The club’s excellent coaches will be in attendance, and racquets & balls will be provided. Please wear appropriate footwear.

10am-5pm. Free entry. www.altontennisclub.co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 15

WHat’s ON Theatres The Anvil Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR www.anvilarts.org.uk Evening of Youth Music Saturday 3rd May, 7pm Eight of Basingstoke’s Area Youth Ensembles, and choirs from several local schools, featuring over 300 of the area’s most talented instrumentalists and singers, present a showcase performance for all the family.

Tickets £10-£12; children under 16 £2 off.

An Evening with the Stars from Strictly Come Dancing Thursday 15th May, 7.45pm Starring Pasha Kovalev and Katya Virshilas from the hit BBC show.

Pasha and Katya are joined by four guest dancers to present a series of stunning dance routines.

The show also features the opportunity for the audience to dance on-stage with the stars!

Tickets £24.

Science Museum Live Friday 16th May, 7pm Saturday 17th May, 2pm & 7pm Science Museum Live presents The Energy Show: explosive family theatre for curious minds.

Stand back and cover your ears – theatre just got dangerously exciting!

Adults £16, children under 16 £13, family (2+2) £52. Suitable for ages 7+.

Angelina Ballerina, The Mousical Friday 13th June, 4pm Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th June, 11am, 2pm & 4pm Everyone’s favourite little star, Angelina Ballerina, pirouettes on to the stage in this sparkling musical packed full of singing and dancing.

All tickets £13.50.

Basingstoke Primary School’s Music Tuesday 24th & Wednesday 25th June, 7pm This annual concert brings together over 25 primary schools, involving over 500 children in a massed choir, orchestra and dance extravaganza.

All tickets £11.

Joe McElderry Friday 27th June, 7.45pm For fans of Joe McElderry and The X Factor this is one night not to miss!

Adults £21, under 16s £20.

NYMAD Concert Saturday 29th June, 4pm The Hampshire County Youth Orchestra will thrill you with their virtuosity and passion for music.

All tickets £3.50.

Funkline Saturday 14th June, 8pm Funkline will have you dancing and singing along to the best dance floor fillers of the past decades! Adults £12, children £8.

The Haymarket

The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Saturday 28th June, 11am Take one castle, one broom and one book of sorcery. Add a boy with a tingle of magic in his fingertips and a spell that spirals out of control.

Adults £6, children £5.

Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW www.anvilarts.org.uk Carrie’s War Thursday 22nd & Friday 23rd May, 7.30pm Saturday 24th May, 2pm Apollo Theatre Company bring Nina Bawden’s classic novel to the stage in a feast of story-telling and nostalgia fit for the whole family. Adults £17, under 16s £14.

School group discounts available.

Beauty & The Beast Saturday 31st May, 7.30pm Ballet Cymru presents a sparkling and refreshing ballet based on the fairy tale. Adults £17, under 16s £15.

Steve Hewlett & Friends Saturday 21st June, 7.30pm Steve Hewlett, fresh from his stunning appearance on Britain’s Got Talent, now embarks on a major theatre tour with his hilarious friends. All tickets £19.

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Barbados House, Station Rd, Bordon, GU35 0LR www.phoenixarts.co.uk Shoe Baby Saturday 31st May, 2pm A fantastical sing-a-long adventure with a baby who takes to the sea, the air, the zoo all in a shoe! Puppet theatre for all ages over 4. Adults £6, children £4, family (2+2) £18.

The Harlington

Fleet Road, Fleet, GU51 4BY www.theharlington.co.uk

The Sooty Show Saturday 10th May, 11am & 2.30pm Sooty heads into town in a fabulous new show to delight the whole family. Adults £12, children £10, family (2+2) £38.

Holybourne Theatre London Rd, Holybourne, Alton, GU34 4EL

www.holybournetheatre.co.uk The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Saturday 5th & 12th July, 2pm Sunday 6th & 13th July, 2pm Presented by Holybourne Youth Theatre. CS Lewis’s magical tale of four children entering a wardrobe and finding themselves in the wintery, fantasy land of Narnia is bought alive in the Youth theatre’s latest production.

All tickets £7.

Reduced Shakespeare Company Friday 21st June, 7.30pm All 37 plays in 97 minutes! An irreverent, fast-paced romp through the Bard’s plays.

Adults £17, under 16s £15.

The Central Studio Cliddesden Rd, Basingstoke, RG21 3HF www.centralstudio.co.uk Big Book Tall Tales Saturday 10th May, 11am This is an old story that takes place in a forgotten tattered library where the caretaker finds an old big book with all the words washed away. He falls into the book and is transformed into ‘Big Book Tall Tales’. Adults £6, children £5.

David Copperfield Saturday 10th May, 7pm Hotbuckle Productions bring their distinctive style to this beloved story of Dickens’ favourite child.

Adults £12, children £8.

Yummm!

Saturday 14th June, 11am A dance theatre show that celebrates all that is messy at meal times! Adults £6, children £5.

CALL

01256 844244 OR VISIT

www.anvilarts.org.uk FRI 25 - SUN 27 JULY /scoobydooliveuk

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