Families Hampshire North July -August 2014

ISSUE 3 JULY/AUGUST 2014

EE FR

Summer time!

- Have fun in a museum

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

- Tips for long car journeys - Holiday activities & days out

07845 701896

info@yasminanne.co.uk

Newborn and family fine art photography Photo sessions are available for newborn, family, cake smash, maternity, couples and weddings.

From your home or if prefered I can offer newborn studio photography, in my home in Farnborough Hampshire. www.yasminanne.co.uk

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

A family fun day out

Sara

Open daily 19th July - 7th September 2014

Contents News

6 Mums in business 7

Work & Life

8

Education

9 – 12

Summer

13 – 16

What’s on

Mega enjoyment

It’s a Hoot!

Creative thinking

Cover by:

designflavour.com

Yasmin Anne www.yasminanne.co.uk See Yasmin’s advert on the front cover.

Printed by:

PRINTED BY WARNERS 01778 395111

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Contact details:

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

September/October– Education, Schools and Clubs & Classes!

Booking & copy deadline is 31st July

Find us on Facebook and Twitter

als

Find your way out of our owl shaped maze plus a full day of family fun...

NEW Jumping Pillow

Tractor Tyre Mountain Human Rabbit Warren NEW Adventure Play Animal Handling Area Mega Bale Mountain Tractor & Trailer Ride Trampolines Go-Karts Giant Sandpit Bouncy Castle Mini Tractors NEW Under 3's Play Area Farmyard Animals Inflatable Slide Catering Free Car Parking

All activities included in the entrance price

Open daily 10am - 5.00pm Find us next to: Manydown Farm Shop on the B3400 Scrapps Hill Farm, 550 Worting Road, Basingstoke RG23 8PU

01256 220398 www.manydownfamilyfun.co.uk Activities and events subject to change without notice. Maize growth dependent on weather.

MANYDOWN FAMILY FUN

MAIZE MAZE

day out A family fun

£5

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.

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@FamiliesHantsN

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familieshampshirenorth

Meet our anim

Owl Maize Maze!

Designed by:

N is ex su t e

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£5

MAIZE MAZE

Have fun and see you in September!

UP

MANYDOWN FAMILY FUN

We’ve got a lot for you to read this issue, as well as our regular interview with two lovely mums, and a four-page Summer spread with ideas of things to do during the holidays.

3 - 5

* SA

Welcome to the Summer issue of Families Hampshire North magazine.

* Save £1.25 off a child or adult day ticket,

for up to 4 admissions with this voucher.

© 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.

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.

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Terms & Conditions: 1. This voucher entitles the holder to £1.25 off a child or adult admission price, for up to 4 admissions per voucher. 2. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 3. This voucher cannot be used in conjunction with any other special offer, online tickets, vouchers or promotions.

4. A maximum of four adult or child admissions per voucher in one transaction. 5. This voucher must be given up at the time of use. 6. There is no alternative offer or cash alternative. 7. Photocopies, downloads from electronic versions of publications, forged or defaced vouchers are not accepted.

8. This voucher is only valid 19th July – 7th September 2014.

FNH/1/14

News 2 to 12 yrs

PARTIES

Available to hire for private party bookings

www.boppingparties.co.uk

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

KiddieCubes KiddieCubes is a new, revolutionary baby food product which launched in May at the Newlyns Farm Shop in Hook. KiddieCubes are gently cooked, then fast frozen (rather than heat treated), made from all-natural home grown ingredients and contain absolutely no nasties. They are the first baby food product of their kind.

The entrepreneur and mum behind the brand is Issy Langly-Smith.

She is a nutritionist by trade, but has given up her day job to pursue KiddieCubes as she feels there is such a gap in the market here - mums and dads certainly don’t want to settle for nutritionally defunct food for their children but the knowledge isn’t really there in terms of knowing that pouches and jars of baby food are heat treated and therefore nutritionally indifferent.

KiddieCubes are currently available exclusively at Newlyns Farm Shop. www.kiddiecubes.com

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

Every Wednesday at 10am (Term Time only) @

Chineham Village Hall

BABIES

Pay as you go (No booking required)

www.BoppingBabies.co.uk

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!!!!**

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.

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

www.asomocrafts.co.uk

Muzitots For babies, toddlers and pre-school children, Muzitots runs music and movement classes where the emphasis is on rhythm, rhyme and a range of physical skills. The programme aims to develop vital skills which are needed in early speaking, reading and writing and is tailored around the children’s learning within these important aspects. Above all, children should have fun while they learn.

Sessions are in Liphook, Hammer and Beacon Hill.

Contact Vera on 07735084771 or vera@ muzitots.co.uk or visit the website for more information www.muzitots.co.uk

CakeyPigg tea room opens at Cottismore Garden Centre The award winning CakeyPigg Originals have just opened their brand new tea room at Cottismore Garden Centre, just north of Kingsclere.

With indoor and outdoor seating it is the perfect place to enjoy a nice sit down with tea and cake, a light lunch or an indulgent afternoon tea.

See www.cakeypigg. com for further details.

‘Make UK’ goes global with the launch of online shopping Nestled in the Hampshire countryside, Make UK is a really special place to shop. It’s packed full of unusual, quirky and just plain gorgeous treasures - all of which are handmade by a handpicked team of artisans and creators.

Set up in September 2012 by business mums and friends, Jane Gosnell and Lou Hamer, Make UK has its headquarters at Applegarth Farm in Grayshott, Hampshire.

The shop has already earned quite a name for itself, outgrowing its original premises, and winning a prestigious business award along the way. And now Make UK’s unique range is available to buy online at the click of a mouse.

And if you’ve ever fancied getting creative, then why not have a go yourself? Now you can book Make UK’s fun workshops via the online shop too. The creative cabin at Applegarth Farm is a really charming, peaceful location to enjoy learning a new skill. Great coffee and cake too! So why not indulge in a bit of me time? www.makeuk.co.uk

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.

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

Competition winners!

Congratulations to the lucky readers below who won prizes in our f irst issue competitions: - Claire Rutherford won a flight experience for two at Airkix.

- Sarah Gambrill and Sally Sandwell each won a family ticket to Marwell Zoo.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 3

News Hampshire children need foster carers “We foster because we really enjoy providing a happy and nurturing home for a child to welcome them, help them to feel safe and part of our team”.

These are the words of Jules and Stephen from Basingstoke who have been fostering for just over three years. In this time they have looked after seven children, the eldest being 13 years old and the youngest just four days old.

“Fostering can make a hugely positive change for the better for a child but it’s also great fun and learning not just for the children but for us and our family too,” continues Jules. “Our own children are great role models and for us being a foster family is really a family affair.”

Hampshire Fostercare has a range of fostering opportunities, both short and longer term. We offer an excellent package of training before and after approval, and regular on-going support to people interested in becoming foster carers.

We are currently particularly looking for homes for older children and teenagers, children with disabilities or special needs and sibling groups.

If you have a spare room and the time to care then please get in touch. You don’t need to own your home or be a couple to foster.

Visit www.hants.gov.uk/fostering or call 0845 6035620.

Blinx eyeware Blinx are the new eye-catching range of eyewear accessories for children who wear glasses, allowing them to easily customise their existing spectacle frames.

Newly launched this month, Blinx are designed to be easily slipped on and off the arms of children’s spectacles, allowing them to be swapped and changed to suit their mood or outfit. They can be worn individually, as matching pairs or mixed together to create a unique look.

The soft plastic charms will fit the majority of children’s spectacles and are available in an initial range of 20 designs.

New Children and Families Act A landmark Act comes into law this summer giving greater protection to vulnerable children, better support for children whose parents are separating and help for parents to balance work and family life. It will also help children with Special Educational Needs and disabilities, while ensuring vital changes to the adoption system meaning more children who need loving homes are placed faster. The Act will also make it easier for families to access more flexible childcare, while making amendments to the law to protect children in cars from the dangers of second-hand smoke, and giving parents new options to share parental leave following the birth of a baby. Possibly the most interesting change is that from this June every employee across the country will be granted the right to request flexible working hours, with a duty on employers to consider requests in a ‘reasonable’ manner. ‘Current workplace arrangements have not kept up with the times,’ said Jenny Willott, Employment Relations Minister. ‘By enabling any employee to request to work flexibly, we want to remove any cultural assumption that flexible working is only for women, or just for parents and carers. The new system is good for business as it will create a more motivated and flexible, talented workforce.

Employers will be able to attract and retain women – from the boardroom to the shop floor - and prevent them from dropping out of the world of work once they start a family.’

World Breastfeeding Week This year’s World Breastfeeding Week takes place 1-7 August with the theme Breastfeeding: A Winning Goal For Life! Protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding is a vital, life-saving goal of World Breastfeeding Week, with breastfeeding a key intervention for improving child survival in the world, potentially saving about 20% of children under five across the globe. They need your help, so please get involved by organising activities or pledging your time or money at www.worldbreastfeedingweek.org.

‘ We foster to enable children with specific needs to prosper and reach their full potential.’

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

At just £1.99 each, Blinx could become a key fashion collectible very quickly. www.myblinx.co.uk

A Puffin Book Puffin are launching A Puffin Book, a new series with twenty timeless and unforgettable stories brought to life for a new generation of readers to discover. From Charlotte’s Web to Goodnight Mister Tom, Watership Down to Tarka the Otter, these treasured children’s books have all stood the test of time, remaining as relevant and resonant today as when first published. A Puffin Book editions are priced at £6.99 and publish on 3 July with beautiful new cover designs and additional content to bring the world alive for young readers. www.puffin.co.uk

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Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

www.hants.gov.uk

News The complete labelling solution – because kids lose stuff!

Labels4Kids offers a wide range of name labels, so whatever you need to be able to identify, they’ve got a solution, with labels for school, camp, sports clubs, day-care, and more. Choose from iron on labels, sew in labels, sticky labels, click on labels, and dishwasher and microwave-proof labels for water bottles or lunch boxes. Labels4Kids offers such a large, tried and tested amount of labels that there really is something for everyone.

Labels4Kids continues the expansion and modernisation of their website to make the ordering process faster and smoother. Not only can you design your vinyl order onscreen now, but postage is free for orders of £20 or more, and they have a 100% moneyback guarantee if you have any problems with your labels.

Labels4Kids apologise for any ordering problems you may have encountered last year during the website move which took longer than expected but is now completed.

The popular company is expecting a very busy summer, so do remember to get your orders in early at the start of summer to guarantee a quick turnaround in time for school. Follow them on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter or Flickr, or sign up to their blog for news of more developments later this year!

Progressing labelling for your benefit, Labels4Kids care because, try as they might, kids DO lose stuff! www.labels4kids.com/fam

Stagecoach Charity Gala When the students at the Basingstoke and Andover Stagecoach Schools heard from ex-student Vicky Ferguson that there was another group of children 4415 miles away, who shared their love of music and role play, it seemed natural to want to make a connection.

However when Vicky went on to share the plight of the street children of Mombasa, Stagecoach students felt that not only did they want to make a connection, they wanted to make a difference and the Stagecoach Charity Gala in aid of Glad’s House was born. Fifty eight students aged between six and eighteen years old joined professional performers in this festival of everything theatre and raised over £2,000 for the Hook based charity. Vicky, CEO and founder of Glad’s House said “It was incredibly emotional for me seeing the children of Stagecoach putting their hearts and souls into this special performance. It took me back to my days Overton and Steventon at the performing arts Children’s Houses school and reminded me how much I Highly acclaimed accreditedMontessori learned about taking nursery schools for 2 to 6 year olds on life’s challenges Bilingual environments of French and German. whilst perfecting my French sessions and sport coaching provided. jazz hands.” Details Individual websites for each child. of Stagecoach Happy, calm and child orientated classes can be found environments. at stagecoach.

Affordable rates and flexible payment co.uk/basingstoke. methods to enable access for all.

Information on Glad’s Come and see us to find out more.

House can be found Telephone: 01256 770720 www.the-childrens-house.co.uk at gladshouse.com.

National charity encourages families to learn British Sign Language With around 85 per cent of deaf children attending a mainstream school in England [National Deaf Children’s Society], the country’s leading awarding body for qualifications in deaf communication, Signature, is urging families to learn British Sign Language (BSL) to ensure their children are equipped with the skills needed to communicate with deaf peers.

Signature is encouraging schools to teach BSL to children in Key Stages one to four, and has created a short introductory video demonstrating 11 BSL words and phrases including ‘hello’, ‘friend’ and ‘please’ so that teachers can take 15 minutes out of their day to introduce pupils to basic sign languages.

Schools interested in running a Signature course can find out more information at www.signature.org.uk.

Book Review Diary of a Desperate Dad,

by Sam Jackson Reviewed by Sara Dawson, Editor I had a look through some of Sam’s blog before reading his book and so had a general idea of the style of writing he would probably employ. As a result I had expected his book to be a laugh out loud romp through dad experiences which I, as a mother, could enjoy with some detached amusement. What I didn’t expect was a book which I literally couldn’t put down, so well did it hold my attention.

It is a book aimed at dads but I would challenge any mother not to benefit from a read of this too as it provides brilliant insights into parenting generally. Yes, it was light hearted and I did laugh out loud at times, but above all it was a well thought out and sincere account of one man’s experience of becoming a dad. The advice given was not patronising, nor even from a position of ‘I’ve been through it all now so know what I’m doing’, but more a sharing of experiences, mistakes made and lessons learned along the way. I especially loved the idea of a quotes book and have started one for my daughter – what a clever idea!

Diary of a Desperate Dad is available in paperback and Kindle from Amazon. Sam’s blog can be found at diaryofadesperatedad.com.

Sam has also written an article for this issue which you will find on page 7.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 5

Mums in business

Laura Haystaff – The Topiary Hair & Beauty Laura runs The Topiary Hair & Beauty in Old Basing, where she lives with her husband Matt and daughters Eadie and Florence.

Ten years ago Laura had the opportunity to buy the local salon she was working for at the time and so at the age of 22 took the decision to start her own business and hasn’t looked back. Laura is passionate about hairdressing and loves to make people happy with the service her team provides. Running the salon enables her to have a great work/life balance where she is able to raise

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. her daughters herself but also apply herself to something she loves doing.

a child friendly environment with service that is second to none.

Laura’s enthusiasm for the area in which she and her family live is infectious and they clearly make the best out of every opportunity to enjoy themselves, it having been home to them since they were children. Her eldest daughter attends Old Basing Infant School, whilst her youngest attends Sunshine Daisy Nursery in Andwell.

The Old Basing Recreation Ground is a family favourite for Laura and there is seemingly so much to do there with grass for picnics and games, a football pitch, a cricket field, and a tennis court.

The best advice that Laura was given when she started her business was to do her sums, which she seems to have listened to as her advice to anyone starting a business is to plan, budget, and then budget for the overspend. She also recommends taking a holiday at least once a year! www.thetopiarysalon.co.uk www.facebook.com/thetopiarysalon 01256 841381

Laura’s eldest daughter attends a weekly ballet class at the Old Basing Village Hall which is run by Lisa Jane School of Dance, which Laura herself used to attend as a small girl. She also attends Stagecoach at Sherfield School on Saturdays and enjoys swimming lessons with Kim Chapman Swimming School at QMC. Laura loves vintage and so enjoys visiting Pride & Joy in Sherborne St John. They also have a tea room and run crafty workshops. A favourite family day out is to Miller’s Ark Animals in Hook who have regular open days and also put on a very special Christmas nativity event, whilst El Castello in Odiham provides fantastic food in

on two sizes of children’s bags. Doing something she loves, Kate finds she has constant motivation but as a result sometimes struggles to put her laptop down and ‘switch off’ and often misses the quiet evenings from her previous career!

Kate Hope – Hope & Rainbows Kate runs Hope & Rainbows in Old Basing, where she lives with her husband Richard, daughters Emily and Georgie, and their chocolate lab called Molly.

Hope & Rainbows was officially launched in July 2013, but the first designs were created just before the birth of Kate’s second daughter in June 2012. Wanting to send a special christening gift to two little boys, but finding it difficult to source the right gift, she embarked on making her own. The recipients’ Mummies both loved the prints so much and, with the help of her husband, encouraged her to explore more designs and consider offering them for sale.

Hope & Rainbows is essentially a collection of alphabetical, personalised illustrations for babies and children. The images are available as mounted or framed artworks, on postcards and

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Kate and her family have been living in Old Basing for just over a year now and love how friendly the village is. Their favourite pastime is to walk around the village visiting all the parks on a ‘swing-crawl’, and Kate also recommends Basing Beans for under fives which runs in the Old Basing Royal British Legion Hall. Her eldest daughter has been going to Lisa Jane School of Dance ballet lessons since they arrived in the village and loves it.

Kate and her family enjoy going to West Wittering near Chichester for a day on the beach for sandcastle building or windy walks, and when more adventure beckons their favourite local haunts are Millers Ark Animals, Wellington Country Park, Alice Holt Forest and Finkley Down Farm. A favourite family place to eat is at the Newlyns Farm Shop café which has the added bonus of animals to visit outside!

The best advice Kate was given when starting her business was to work hard and play hard. The best advice she would offer anyone in a similar position is to just go for it – especially if your idea is something you are passionate about as that will show every day. www.hopeandrainbows.co.uk facebook.com/hopeandrainbows

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

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.

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

www.bluecrystalcoaching.co.uk

Work & Life Sam Jackson, local dad and Managing Editor at Classic FM, shares how he found moving to Liphook, Hampshire from London improved his quality of life.

In January 2012, my wife and I bundled our two kids into the car outside our south-west London home, waved goodbye to our shoebox of a house, and headed off in the direction of the A3. As we prepared to swap the bright lights of SW17 for the leafy surroundings of GU30, we reflected on the fact that London had been a wonderful place to live – vibrant, exciting, and only half an hour from my workplace – but the lure of a garden bigger than a postage stamp had finally proved too tempting. Amidst all the excitement about our move, I still had a few concerns: principally, would North-East Hampshire be a bit, well, sleepy?

Then there was the question of whether or not I could really count on South West Trains to get me to Waterloo in under an hour. Finally, would there be anyone our age anywhere nearby, or would most of the people within a three-mile radius have more in common with our parents?

Two-and-a-half years on from our move, I’m very happy to say that our exodus from London to Liphook has been a universally positive one. We loved being in the capital, but now, it’s almost impossible to imagine returning to a life in the city. So what, exactly, makes living in our corner of Hampshire particularly appealing?

For starters, everything simply feels so much more spacious – and when there are three young children to consider, that’s a huge bonus. It’s not just that the houses are cheaper, and that we can finally afford to live somewhere with space to swing a toddler; there’s also so much physical space around us. Within five minutes, we can be blowing the seeds off dandelions in the woods, or skimming stones across a lake. Jump in the car, and after quarter of an hour we’re at Alice Holt Forest, climbing up oak trees or teaching the eldest one to ride without his stabilisers. In London, it would take us an hour to travel the few

Mums and Dads !!!

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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

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miles to Richmond Park; now, after 45 minutes we’re breathing in the sea air in West Wittering.

There are other huge positives, too – not least, the wonderful community feel of the place. In the city, people are often quite transient: they only stay in their house or flat for a year or two, before moving on somewhere new. In Liphook, however, it feels like everyone’s putting roots down – and, as a result, those around you are willing to invest considerably more effort into establishing and building new friendships. Plus, contrary to my initial concerns, it turns out that there are indeed many people in Hampshire who don’t yet qualify for a free bus pass. From the school quiz night to the Saturday tots’ disco, all around us there’s proof that this beautiful county of ours contains a harmonious mix of young and old.

Since our arrival in Liphook, we’ve welcomed another child into the chaotic mix of Jackson family life. Our days are busy, and attempting to hold down a busy London-based job whilst also carving out quality time for my wife and three kids isn’t always easy. But the happiness I feel as I stroll home from the station, with a view of the sun setting over the rolling hills, will forever outweigh the challenge of the daily commute.

Read our review of Sam’s new book ‘Diary of a Desperate Dad’ on page 5.

Finding work that will make you happy

while still juggling multiple roles as parent......butler, chauffeur, cook, house-cleaner, clothes-washer, teacher, counsellor, bank manager, travel agent etc. (Great list of transferable skills!)

by Graeme Cooper, Blue Crystal Coaching

Over the years I’ve helped many people with their job-searching and business plans. I’m an experienced and successful coach, entrepreneur, trainer, business mentor – oh and parent!

When you’ve been out of the jobs market for a while – 10 months or 10 years – getting back into it can seem like climbing Mount Everest or trekking through the jungle.

Been there – done that – got the T-shirt!

A clear idea of what kind of work you enjoy would help you sort out which direction to head in and the right type of jobs to look for : using Career Match™ I’ll help you find a job that fits the way you do things best.

Let’s have a chat – no fee, no obligation – and explore how we can work together to climb your mountain.

Maybe even start up your own business? Part-time or fulltime, making some extra income or a completely new career?

Many have successfully done this “from the spare room”

So if you’re looking for guidance, advice, information and support about finding the right job, or getting your business idea to work - whatever makes you HAPPY! - please give me a call.

Or send me an e-mail.

Graeme Cooper Blue Crystal Coaching Tel: 01256 460 407 Mobile: 07960 533 854 www.bluecrystalcoaching.co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 7

Education Starting school - 10 things your child should be able to do when they begin school

by Sarah Butters, Editor of Families Leeds With four-year-olds across the country starting school for the first time in September, many parents will be wondering and worrying about if their child is ready to take this big step. The article below is designed to give you some guidance on what your child should be able to do when they start school. Forget force feeding them phonics, this is about getting your child ready for the social challenges of school. The more prepared they are, the easier they will settle and the more they’ll get out of those early days.

Don’t worry too much about ticking everything off the list, but you could use this as a prompt for some fun summer holiday activity to get them ready for September!

1. Can they dress themselves?

7. Do they understand boundaries?

Imagine one teacher faced with thirty children and their coats. By the time each child is zipped up and wrapped up, playtime is over.

If your child is able to go some way to helping, they may get some fresh air.

It’s important your child understands what’s expected of them when they arrive at school. They need to know hitting, kicking, biting and hair pulling will not be tolerated. Not only will it bring your child to the attention of the head teacher for all the wrong reasons, but it will make your child unpopular with their classmates.

If you can see buttons on trousers and skirts becoming a problem during the post PE change, invest in elasticated waistbands. These will also help during any ‘last minute’ toilet visits. With shoes, stick to Velcro fastenings which your child can do themselves.

2. Are they used to sharing?

Sharing is a difficult lesson for a child to learn, but it’s a vital lesson if you want your child to settle in and make friends easily. No one wants to play with the boy who refuses to take turns and share, and before long that child becomes isolated. Start to make a point of praising your pre-schooler for sharing his bag of figures or his last few sweets.

3. Can they use the toilet on their own?

Reception classrooms usually have a toilet nearby but children are expected to use it on their own. Encourage your child to begin taking toilet trips without you to build up their confidence, and remind them to wash their hands. Beginning school toilet training now will mean fewer accidents in September.

4. Are they able to eat independently?

Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint in the early days of your child’s school life. Dinner halls are noisy places and can make a child feel overwhelmed. Make sure they arrive at school able to pick up and use a knife and fork. Show them how to open a yoghurt, put a straw in a juice box and unpeel a banana.

5. Are they able to recognise their name?

If your child can recognise their name, they’ll be able to find their peg, identify their drawer in the classroom and find their cardigan if it gets misplaced. Starting school can make even the most confident child feel a little lost. If they can locate important places, it will make them feel more in control.

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8. Can they communicate with an adult?

Giving your child the skills to communicate with their teacher means they will be able to have some control. If they don’t understand how to get the attention of an adult, how will they let their teacher know they don’t understand their work or ask to go to the toilet?

Encourage your child to ask and even practice with a raised hand at home to make sure they understand the most appropriate way of getting a grown-up’s attention.

9. Are they able to count?

If your child is able to count up to 20, and count back from 10, this will give them a really good head start. However don’t worry too much about this as some children do this by ‘rote’ anyway without really understanding what it means to count, which will be taught in context in school.

10. Can they follow simple instructions?

The school day is full of instructions. Your child will be asked to put coats on pegs, walk quietly in corridors and sit cross-legged on the carpet for circle time. If a child is used to following instructions, they will find this easier. Start giving your child simple tasks – perhaps helping with the weekly shop or with some straight forward jobs around the house. It will prepare them for school life.

I would like to acknowledge, with thanks, the feedback received from local schools in our area which has been included within the article above – Editor.

Some books you may find useful: • I am too absolutely small for school (Charlie and Lola) by Lauren Child

6. Can they use scissors?

• Topsy and Tim Start School by Jean Adamson

Teachers look for this in the early stages of Reception to evaluate dexterity. Get crafty over the next few months.

• Starting School Sticker Book (Usborne) by Felicity Brooks

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Summer Time Is it raining again? We all know that even in sunny climes you get the odd wet day, but for us in Blighty we get a bit more than that. So, how do you keep the children entertained during a wet spell without having them glued to the television all day? Read on…

What shall we do today?

By Carlie Cohen, CopyWorks Communications As a mum of two active children, I understand what it’s like trying to find things to do in the holidays that the weather can’t spoil.

Museums definitely tick that box. Running my own Copywriting and Proofreading business, CopyWorks Communications, I was delighted to be commissioned to write ‘101 Ways to Have Fun in a Museum’ for Hampshire Museums and Galleries Trust. A museum activity book available from Milestones museum, it’s also available from Waterstones in Basingstoke.

This is a great fun book, aimed at 5-12 year olds. Designed for use at any museum anywhere, it encourages children to visit lots of different types of museums. It also is an opportunity for children to talk to family relations; sharing life experiences and discovering how they used to live – all away from the computer. The book is filled with facts, information, puzzles and jokes that will appeal to all ages.

Recommended by children, parents and teachers, one of the great features of this book is that it can be used over and over again.

Try out ‘101 Ways to Have Fun in a Museum’ at any of the great museums and galleries we have in Hampshire North listed below...

Covering topics such as Toys, Food, Transport and Family History it also has a pull out time travelling game for children to play. There’s also an opportunity to become a ‘History Wizard’; completing the clues to send off for your very own Wizard certificate.

Readers also have the opportunity to meet the characters Miles, Jane, Curtis, Flo and Willis the dog as they guide us through the book. The fabulous design and illustrations were carefully created by Tricia Smith-Hamblin of Kicking K Design & Marketing.

101 Ways to Have Fun in a Museum is available from Milestones Museum and Waterstones in Basingstoke, rrp £5.99. It’s also available online, visit www.hantsmustrust.org or www.hants. gov.uk/shop. www.copyworkscomms.co.uk carlie@copyworkscomms.co.uk

...and have a look at www.hants.gov.uk/museum to see the full programme of events running in museums over the summer.

Andover Museum 6 Church Close, Andover, SP10 1DP 01264 366283 The museum is a former town house c1750 and charts Andover from prehistoric times to the present day.

Open Tue-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm. Admission free.

Basing House Basing Grange, The Street, Old Basing, RG24 8AE 01256 467294 Ruins of Old Basing House, and visitor centre. Lovely range of items in gift shop.

Open Sat-Thu 11am-4pm. Adults £5.10, children 5-15 yrs £4.10, family £14.30.

Curtis Museum High Street, Alton, GU34 1BA 01420 82802 Local history collection exploring 100 million years of history.

Open Tue-Sat 10am-5pm.

Admission free.

Milestones Museum Basingstoke Leisure Park, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG 01256 477766

Hampshire’s museum of living history.

Open Tue-Fri 10am-4.45pm, Sat & Sun 11am-4.45pm. Adults £8.95, children 5-15 yrs £5.25, family £26.75.

Museum of the Iron Age 6 Church Close, Andover, SP10 1DP 01264 366283 This museum tells the story of Danebury Hill Fort which lies to the South West of Andover.

Open Tue-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm. Admission free.

The Allen Gallery Church Street, Alton, GU34 2BW 01420 82802 Ceramics collection of English, continental and oriental pottery, porcelain & tiles.

Open Tue-Sat 10.30am-4.30pm.

Admission free.

Willis Museum Market Place, Basingstoke, RG21 7QD 0845 603 5635 The story of Basingstoke – discover the town’s past and right up to the modern day.

Open Tue-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-4pm. Admission free.

THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS ARE JUST AROUND THE

CORNER NOW SO, IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING FOR THE CHILDREN TO DO OR SIMPLY NEED HIGH QUALITY STRUCTURED CHILDCARE, OUR SUMMER CAMP IS PERFECT FOR YOU!

FUN IN THE SUN, (HOPEFULLY!), CHILDCARE FOR JUST OVER £2.50 PER HOUR

AGE RANGE: Children aged 5 to 12

Just £18 per child per day or £75 for the full week!

VENUE: Everest Academy in Basingstoke

We will be at Everest Academy for the whole 5 full weeks of the summer holidays. The days will be Multi-­‐Activity days built around our fantastic holiday Xperiences. So, there will be Traditional and non-­‐traditional Sports, Spy, Detective, Adventure and our Football/Futsal Xperience.

New additions for this summer camp will also include Arts and crafts, Computer Games and Cinema.

Book on-­‐line at www.sports-­‐xtra.com or by calling Mark on 07968 956549.

Online Booking Ref Number: 622745459121 Full week discount code: SXMREVWK14

Time: All activities run from 9.00am till 4.00pm.

To ensure the young people get the best possible care, where applicable, we place children in age specific groups. All children will need a packed lunch, plenty of water to drink, trainers and suitable clothing.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 9

Summer Time Our pick of some of the best summer holiday activities and things to do.

Summer holiday creative fun The Lights, West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH Treasure Island - Tuesday 29th July, 10am-3pm Join tutor Katie for this brilliant play in a day as you recreate your very own twist on this classic story. For ages 5-12 yrs. £16. Bring a packed lunch and a drink.

Gruffalo – Thursday 31st July, 10am-3pm Join the Gruffalo, Mouse, Fox, Owl, and Snake for this rather exciting play in a day with tutor Katie based on the popular children’s story. For ages 5-12 yrs. £16. Bring a packed lunch and a drink.

Bugsy Malone, Play in a Week – Monday 4th to Friday 8th August, 10am-4pm daily A war rages between two rival gangsters, Fat Sam and Dandy Dan. Bugsy Malone falls for Blousey Brown, a singer at Fat Sam’s Speakeasy. How is Bugsy to get the girl and help Fat Sam defend his business…? For ages 8-12 yrs. £85.

For more information or other summer activities for younger children see www.thelights.org.uk .

Summer Theatre Club at Liphook Methodist Chuch 40 London Road, Liphook, GU30 7AN 11th to 15th August The Liphook Theatre Club, supported by The Methodist Amateur Dramatics Company, is for 5-11 year olds and runs from Monday 11th - Friday 15th August 2014 at the Methodist Church Hall in Liphook. Each day is 10am-3.30pm, with a performance for parents, friends and any local residents who would like to attend on the last day. The week long theatre club costs £70 per child for the week (£60 for younger siblings) and offers a chance for children to be involved in all aspects of putting on a show, including making the props and costumes as well as singing, dancing and acting. The club will be producing Roald Dahl’s “Cinderella”.

Contact Vanessa Breach on 01428 722813 or emailthemadcompany@gmail.co.uk.

Holiday Fun Day Proteus Creation Space, Council Road, Basingstoke, RG21 3DH 30th July, 10am-5pm Following the success of their last fun day, the Proteus Creation Space are holding another fun-packed day of activities and entertainment. Activities will include a secret cinema screening, a puppet making workshop and a disco complete with lights and lasers. Ages 7yrs+ welcome. Take a packed lunch or £5 for lunch and refreshments in the café.

For an additional fee you can drop children off earlier from 8am and they will be entertained until the main fun day starts.

Booking recommended.

The Fun Day is followed by a Bugsy Malone movie sing along, starting at 5.15pm. The Creation Space will be screening the original 1976 version of the film starring Jodie Foster and Scott Baio and you can sing along at the tops of your voices! Adults £6; children £2. www.proteustheatre.com

10

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Crafty Kids Fun makes a Happy Mum! Applegarth Farm, Grayshott, GU26 6JL 4th & 5th August, 10am-5pm Why not pop down to Applegarth Farm in Grayshott on the 4th & 5th August 10am-5pm? They will be running hourly workshops on a variety of crafty activities for children between 5 and 12 years old, by qualified and CRB checked staff.

Mum can grab a cup of coffee and a rest in the relaxing restaurant and maybe a bit of retail therapy at Make UK, a great little gift shop!

There is a great play area for the kids too so they can run around and let off steam. Applegarth Restaurant is open for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week.

Hourly workshop sessions are limited to 8 participants so it is advisable to book online. £12.50 per session.

For more information go to www.makeuk.co.uk/workshops.

Sports Xtra Everest Community Academy, Oxford Way, Basingstoke, RG24 9UP Everest Community Academy and Sports Xtra have teamed up again this summer to provide a fun and exciting summer camp for the children of Basingstoke and to provide parents with a high quality and structured summer childcare option.

Everest and Sports Xtra are also extremely pleased to have recently formed a further partnership with Radian Housing, a local provider of affordable housing, who have provided funding towards the forthcoming Summer Camp.

The Camp will run from 9am to 4pm every day across the five weeks of the summer holiday at Everest Academy from Monday 28th July through to Friday 29th August 2014. Activities, provided by Sports Xtra, include a wide range of traditional and non-traditional sports like Football, Kwik Cricket, Tag Rugby to Dodgeball, Rock-it-Ball and Mini-Fencing as well non-sporty activities like art attack, computers, cinema, Spy, Adventure and Detective world.

Full days at the holiday camp can be booked for as little as £18 per child per day but there is a big discount for a weekly booking which is just £75! So, fun in the sun childcare for just over £2.50 per hour!

Bookings can be made online at www.sports-xtra.com and if you would like any further information, please contact Mark on 07868 956549 or mark.rowland@sports-xtra.com.

Workshops at Aristology Café & Makery Proteus Creation Space, Council Rd, Basingstoke, RG21 3DH Sculpture Making - 30th July, 10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm Ages 4yrs+. £5 per session, refreshments included.

Sock Puppets - 6th August, 11am-12pm & 2pm-3pm Ages 3yrs+. £3 per sessions, freshments included.

Still Life Painting - 11th August, 10am-12pm & 2pm-4pm Ages 7rs+. £5 per session. www.proteustheatre.com

Summer Time Young Chef Summer Cookery Courses Newlyns Cookery School, Lodge Farm, Hook, RG29 1HA 17th July to 2nd September Newlyns offer young chef cookery courses for 8 to 16 year-olds.

These courses will provide the young chefs with skills which will last them a lifetime and focusses on seasonal and locally sourced produce. Various courses covering things like afternoon tea, desserts and Italian cooking. Costs range from £47 for a 3 ½ hour course to £120 for a two day course.

Book online at www.newlyns-farmshop.co.uk/book-a-course.

Summer family events at the Basingstoke Discovery Centre Festival Place Shopping Centre, Basingstoke, RG21 7LS 17th July to 2nd September The Basingstoke Discovery Centre have a programme of events running over the summer – too many to list here! Discover boardgames, enjoy an interactive storytelling party with children’s entertainer and actress Charlie Sanderson, featuring stories like The Gruffalo and The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and listen to The Science of Dr Who. With events for adults too there is something for all members of the family. See their website for more details, dates, times and prices. Most events need to be booked. www.hants.gov.uk/library/bsdc

Summer at Hollycombe, Liphook Iron Hill, Liphook, GU30 7LP Hollycombe Working Steam Museum on the Hampshire and Surrey border offers a true ‘three generations’ visit, with a traditional fairground, train rides, working steam engines and woodland walks.

Now open on Sundays but with extended opening of Wednesdays to Sundays between 30th July – 25th August, Hollycombe offers great value, as the entrance charge of £14 adults, £12 senior and £10 child (family tickets available) offers free return visits on the majority of open days for a calendar year.

You’ll be supporting a registered educational charity of national importance, run by volunteers, which relies solely on the money it receives from visitors.

Highlights of a visit include the ‘Razzle Dazzle’, the world’s first white-knuckle ride, and the stupendous views from the top of Hollycombe’s famous Big Wheel looking over the South Downs.

The views are equally spectacular from Hollycombe’s Quarry Railway, a 2ft gauge, 1 ½ mile steam railway which pauses midtrip to allow views over the South Downs and also the Sussex Weald. Added value events take place on 19th-20th July when Hollycombe stages its popular Fairground and Organ Weekend and 17th August, which sees a Children’s Teddy Bears’ Outing Day. For more info, visit www.hollycombe.co.uk or call 01428 724900.

2014 Summer Reading Challenge: inspiring children to read in their holidays Enter a fantastical world of legend and mythology by joining in with the 2014 Summer Reading Challenge.

Run by independent charity the Reading Agency, the scheme invites children to pop into their local library and choose six or more books to read during the holidays. There are stickers and rewards to collect along the way, with a certificate at the end for every child who completes the challenge.

This year’s theme is Mythical Maze, which challenges 4-11 year-olds to discover fantastical creatures as they find their way around a labyrinth.

Head to your local library during the summer holidays to enrol.

It’s completely free and anybody can take part. The programme is supported by a Family Leaflet for parents, and a Facebook page with all the latest news: read more at www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk and www.readingagency.org.uk.

Wild Learning Holiday Club Adventure Camp Alice Holt Forest, Farnham, GU10 4LS 24th July to 1st August From the secret camp deep in the woods venture out to try den building, fire making, tracking and stalking, mud sculptures, environmental art, whittling, forest games, tree climbing, stream dipping and more. For ages 5yrs+. 10.15am4pm. £37.50 per day.

For more details and booking visit www.wild-learning.net.

Have a hoot at Manydown Family Fun! Scrapps Hill Farm, 550 Worting Road, Basingstoke, RG23 8PU The new summer season at Manydown Family Fun and Maize Maze starts on 19th July and runs until 7th September (weather permitting). The Maize Maze is always incredibly popular as families enjoy finding their way through it and getting lost in it - this year the theme is owls so bound to be even more of a hoot! The site is jam-packed with fun activities for families to enjoy including; a bail mountain, a human rabbit warren, tractor and trailer ride, inflatables, farmyard animals, a woodland walk and an animal handling area...all included in the one entry price! New for this year there is a jumping pillow, more adventure play equipment and an under 3s play area. There is also a popular catering area where you can buy hot and cold food, drinks and ice-creams.

Go along and enjoy a great family day out - there really is something for everyone!

Manydown Family Fun is open 10am-5pm, seven days a week 19th July to 7th September. Find them on the B3400 at Scrapps Hill Farm. For more information about the 2014 Summer Season see www.manydownfamilyfun.co.uk or facebook.com/Manydown

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 11

Summer Time

Tips for long car journeys with children

By JW Patrick

The key to successful long car journeys with children is to think of it as part of your holiday and make sure you all enjoy it. This is a chance to spend family time together and forge great memories. Our family regularly drives long distances with the children and much prefer it to flying. Tantrums, spills, accidents and illness are so much more easily handled in a confined, (and sound-proofed) car than when stuck in a long queue of tense fellow travellers.

Here then are our Top Ten Tips for long car journeys with children: 1) Treat the car journey as the start of your holiday. Make sure it is fun for the children and as stress-free as possible for mum and dad.

2) Eliminate as much time related stress as possible. In other words, try not to have a ferry crossing booked at the end of a 7 hour drive. If you can, overnight near the terminal.

3) Buy or borrow at least one portable DVD player, Nintendo or iPod etc. Ensure every gadget is charged ahead of travelling and that you have enough travel leads and multi adaptors for everyone to use the 12v cigarette lighter socket.

4) Take regular breaks. Break up your journey regularly with picnics, walks and play areas. Fresh air and a runaround for the children plus a power nap for the driver reduces stress all round.

SUMMER SCHOOL!

A week long of performing arts fun, where everyone has a chance to shine!!

From 26th July to 1st August for children 4-7 and 7-16!

Be part of a “show in a week!” !

Working with professionals.!

!

basingstoke@stagecoach.co.uk 01264 353007! or andover@stagecoach.co.uk 01264 365457!

Be part of something amazing!

! !

! !

Also now taking bookings for the coming term. !

Limited spaces available.!

5) Buy some small presents, like Christmas stocking fillers, and wrap them up for the journey. Action figures, crayons, DVDs etc. You can then award a present for milestones or legs of the trip achieved without arguing, fighting or tantrums.

6) Stock up with snacks. Pack a snack bag that can be pulled out when you sense that their attention and patience may be waning.

7) Play games and quizzes. Our favourite is this number plate game: Take the letters from the number plate of the car in front of you and make up a proper sentence. Score points and prizes for cleverest or funniest etc.

8) If you’re holidaying with friends or grandparents travel in convoy if possible. It makes such a difference for them to see a new friend or face when you stop and gives them something else to look forward to.

9) Stock up on essentials such as baby wipes (even for older children) and water. As well as bottles of drinking water, we keep several big jerry cans of water in the boot, pretty much permanently. Sooner or later you’ll be thankful you did too to help clean up unfortunate toilet or sickness accidents or mud etc. We also keep a roll of black plastic bin liners in the boot in case an entire change of clothes or shoes needs separating from everything else until it can be dealt with properly.

10) Involve them in navigation. Take with you a map or two and buy a couple of packets of ‘organiser’ sticky dots, one colour for each child. Tell them where they are heading to, where they are staying next, or are passing though and award them coloured dots to place on the map for whoever sees the town/sea/river first.

Happy travelling!

12

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

HANDS-ON FUN 100 hands-on exhibits & the UK’s largest digital planetarium

Tel 01962 863 791 - Winchester SO21 1HZ Open 7 days a week www.winchestersciencecentre.org

tickets and get more info at www.nct. org.uk/branches/hants-north-east/eventtickets

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

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

Cheeky Monkeys Tea Party – Saturday 19th July Alton Public Gardens. 11am-3pm.

Free entry. To volunteer on the day or for more info, please contact beckyjpullen@hotmail.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.

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

Nearly New Sale – Saturday 12th July Court Moor School, Fleet.

10am-11.30am Teddy Bears Picnic – Saturday 26th July Zebon Copse Centre, Church Crookham. Ticketed event. Book

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

10.30am-12 noon.

WHat’s ON Out & about drumming, BBQ. Starts 2pm. www.altoncollege.ac.uk/ communityfestival

Cheeky Monkeys Tea Party – Friday 22nd August.

The Tythings, Yateley. 1.30pm-4.30pm.

Contact Rebecca Earnshaw for more info or to secure your tickets in advance on yateleyandcamberleynct@yahoo.co.uk.

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

Baby & Children’s Market - Nearly New Sales Baby & Children’s Market Basingstoke Nearly New Sale – Saturday 12th July The Hurst Leisure Centre, Tadley.

2pm-3.30pm. Contact tom@ babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk.

Baby & Children’s Market - Fleet Nearly New Sale – Sunday 3rd August 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.

Basingstoke Festival

Lowde Fest Hartley Wintney, RG27 8LU

Venues across Basingstoke

5th July

20th June – 13th July

Music and beer festival with entertainment for the whole family: 11hrs of live music, 40 real ales and ciders, fabulous world food, camping, fair ground, toddler zone and attractions for young children and teenagers.

Adults £15; children 13-17 yrs £5; children under 13 go free.

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.

See www.basingstokefestival. co.uk for more details.

www.lowdefest.com

Disco Skate Alton Leisure Centre, Alton, GU34 1ST

Fleet & District Carnival

5th July & 2nd August, 6.30pm-9pm

Fleet 1st to 6th July Full calendar of events leading up to the Grand Procession on Saturday 5th July. The theme for the procession will be Great British Inventions, as voted for by the residents of Fleet. See www.fleetcarnival.org for the full calendar of events.

Events at Hatch Warren Community Centre Long Cross Lane, Basingstoke, RG22 4XN 3rd July – Coach trip to see Mamma Mia 6th July – Coach trip to Brighton 5th & 6th September – Beer Festival For further details of these and other events run by the Hatch Warren Community Association please see www.hatchwarren.org

Alton College Community Festival Alton College, Old Odiham Road, Alton, GU34 2LX 5th July 5-a-side football tournament, live World Cup football, Samba

DISCO SKATE bring you family roller disco nights once a month. £6 per person inc. skate hire. www.discoskate.co.uk

John Pinkerton Canal Cruises Basingstoke Canal, Odiham, RG29 1AL 6th July to 31st August Enjoy a leisurely 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.

Cruises depart from Colt Hill, Odiham or Fox & Hounds pub, Fleet. During August cruises run on Friday, Saturdays & Sundays only, with the exception of the bank holiday weekend when they run on Monday too.

Adults £8, children under 16 £5, family £25. Booking is strongly recommended.

Themed cruises operate during July – see website for details and prices. www.basingstoke-canal.org.uk/ jp/public-trips/

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

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 13

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Activities at Hawk Conservancy Trust

Wonderful, Weird and Wacky Walking Staffs

Andover, SP11 8DY

5th August

Falcons at Sunset

As a keen explorer you will need a trusty walking staff. Come along and make your own personalised staff from the trees of Alice Holt.

Ages 10yrs+. 10am-12pm. £10 per child.

12th & 19th July Falcons at Sunset takes advantage of the calm air during the evening to demonstrate the true aerial skill of falcons.

Feathers Restaurant will be open for evening meals. 7pm. Adults £11.55; children £7.15.

Sarson Falconer Displays 23rd July to 31st August

Kings Furlong Infant and Junior schools’ Joint PTA Summer Fun Day

whole family along and have a go.

11am-5pm.

www.hawk-conservancy.org

Kings Furlong Schools, Basingstoke, RG21 8YJ

Kennet Valley Spinners Weavers & Dyers 6th & 7th, 16th & 17th, 26th & 27th August

Activities at Alice Holt Forest

12th July Attractions include Go-carts, a bouncy castle, Spider Mountain, a beer tent & BBQ as well as a varied range of stalls selling crafts, offering games and competitions appealing to children and adults of all ages. These will be spread out across the beautiful grounds of both schools - and indoors if it rains! These Fun Days are always full of smiling children and parents so they’re looking forward to another (hopefully sunny!) day of fundraising and laughter! See either school website for further details.

Come along for a demonstration of skills and craft. Fun for all.

11am-5pm. www.whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk

Activities at Applegarth Farm Headley Road, Grayshott, GU26 6JL

Summer Festival 12th July

Whitchurch, RG28 7AL

A brilliant day out for all the family! Live music provided by ACM students, one man band, stilt walking, free circus skills and rhythm workshops, street food, children’s entertainment a plenty, artists, craft stalls, local produce, demonstrations and so much more! 11am-7pm. £2; children under 12 yrs free. Free parking.

Summer Picnic

www.makeuk.co.uk

Activities at Whitchurch Silk Mill

12th July

Craft Workshops

Bring a rug and a picnic and sit back and enjoy live music from local indie folk band, The Grizzly Folk, plus other acoustic folk acts. Live music, teas/coffees and snacks in tea room, ice creams and soft drinks on sale in the garden, a Pimms tent and traditional ales from local breweries. 6.30pm-9pm.

4th & 5th August

Felt Making

www.makeuk.co.uk/workshops

Make UK are running hourly craft workshops for children on a variety of activities. Mum can grab a cup of coffee and a rest in the restaurant and maybe even a bit of retail therapy! For ages 5-12 yrs. £12.50 per child. Advance booking recommended as workshops limited to 8 at a time.

29th July and 5th, 14th, 19th & 28th August Felt maker Gwen Ryan will be at the Silk Mill making felt. Bring the

14

This summer sees the return of the very popular Sarson Falconer displays, where visitors can be part of the show. Taking place during the 2pm Valley of the Eagles demonstration, the Sarson Falconer is a re-enactment of medieval village life with roles to suit even the youngest visitor!

Places are limited and allocated on a first-come/first-served basis.

Adults £13.50; children £9.50; family (2+2) £42.

Tel: 01256 330147 editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, GU10 4LS

Babes in the Wood Summer Special 14th July Join the ranger for some outdoor fun and then back to the classroom for refreshments and summer crafts. For toddlers 14mths-2 ½ yrs. 10.30am-12pm and 2pm-3.30pm. £6 per child.

Caterpillar Crafts 29th July and 12th & 19th August

Den Building 6th & 12th August Green shelter or natural hideaway this is real self-build in action.

Ages 8yrs+. 10am-12pm. £8 per child.

Solar Sunday with Farnham Astronomical Society 17th August 11am-3pm. Free entry – donations welcome. See www.farnham-as. co.uk for more information.

Family Bushcraft 23rd August 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. 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.

Events at Hollycombe, Steam in the Country Liphook, GU30 7LP

An exciting opportunity for young people with a disability or additional needs, and their families, to have a fun-filled day in the woods. Full care support available for children with a disability or additional needs and their siblings for just £10.

10.30am-2pm. £8 per child – parent/carer free. See www. caterpillar-crafts.com or call Clair on 07830 256619.

Fairground Weekend and Mechanical Organ Gathering

Gruffalo Fun

17th August

31st July and 7th, 14th & 21st August

Today’s the day that Teddy Bears are encouraged to come along to Hollycombe and join in the fun! Bring along your teddies and maybe a picnic and enjoy it in our peaceful woodland gardens before the afternoon fun starts.

Join in for some Gruffalotastic games and crafts in the deep dark wood. Ages 3-7 yrs. 10am-12pm and 2pm-3.30pm. £6 per child.

19th & 20th July Roll up! Roll up! It’s all the fun of the fair! Enjoy traditional steam fairground and visiting attractions including fairground models, transport, living vans and historic photographs.

Children’s Teddy Bears’ Outing

Both events open 11am - 5pm.

Adults £14; children £10. Family tickets available. Entrance allows

We take every care preparing these entries but please check websites in case details have changed. return admission on majority of Hollycombe open days for calendar year. www.hollycombe.co.uk

and plant stalls, local charities, facepainting and lots more!

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

Day out with Thomas 9th to 17th August

Summer Maize Maze Mandown Family Fun, Worting Road, Basingstoke, RG23 8PU 19th July to 7th September Find your way out of the owl shaped maze plus a full day of family fun! New adventure play and bouncing pillow, and a better catering area. Open daily 10am-5pm. All activities included in the entrance price. See their advert on page 2 for a money off voucher for up to 4 admissions.

See www.manydownfamilyfun. co.uk for further information.

Events at the Watercress Line Alresford, SO24 9JG

Alton Bus Rally 20th July One of the South’s largest FREE bus rallies with a static exhibition of buses and coaches of all shapes and sizes from a variety of eras and operating areas. 10am5pm Anstey Park, Anstey Lane, Alton, GU34 2NB. Free entry.

All aboard for a day out with Thomas! Experience a ride on a real steam train; shake hands with The Fat Controller; take part in Thomas themed activities in the Imagination Station. Adults £18, children (2-16) £12, family (2+2) £54. www.watercressline.co.uk

Summer Holiday Fun Finkley Down Farm, Andover, SP11 6NF 24th July to 1st September A great day out for the summer.

Cheer on your favourite sheep in the British Lamb Prix, Finkley’s very own sheep race every day at 2pm. Animal handling, outdoor play, Shetland pony rides, a giant indoor play barn, and a tasty menu from the Moody Cow Café.

Also some fabulous visitors to the farm this summer, with children’s entertainers, children’s TV characters and also welcoming back Celebrity Reptiles. 10am6pm, 7 days a week. Adults £8.95; children 2-16 yrs £7.95; family (2+2) £31.

50 Things to do before you’re 11 ¾

11th to 15th August

25th July & 15th August – Build a den

A 30 minute lesson on the ice with a NISA Qualified Coach, and an all-day skating pass for each day of the course. Meal deal included in price plus hire of skates. Lessons are beginner levels only. Suitable for adults & children. 10am-10.30 each day. Early bird booking price of £50 for the week course.

25th to 29th August

Build some of the biggest dens you’ve ever seen. Join in the woodlands to collect the best materials, and use them to make a den that you can stand up in!

No need to book, just turn up. For ages 3yrs+. 12pm.

Hunt for bugs 8th August Join in the wild garden to search among the long grass for some scuttling bugs. For ages 3yrs+.12pm.

Events at Highclere Castle

Bird watching

Battle Proms

15th August

2nd August

Take your binoculars down to the birdhide in the woods and see if you can see any species of rare birds. For ages 3yrs+. 2pm.

28th & 29th July, 22nd & 23rd August

The 14th annual Highclere Castle Battle Proms Open Air Picnic Concert. In addition to a full orchestral programme of classical music, there is also an emotive Spitfire aerial display.

Includes ‘Last Night of the Proms’ favourites and fireworks finale.

Two friendly instructors from The Great Big Tree Climbing Company will help you reach new heights in an oak tree deep in the woodland. If you’re feeling brave you can take the zip wire back down! For ages 6yrs+. Tickets £15. 6 sessions to choose from each day, between 11am-5pm.

Gates open 4.30pm, programme commences at 5.50pm. Adults £35 (£40 on the day – cash only); children 5-15 yrs £17. NO Castle access. Booking strongly recommended. www.battleproms.com

Heroes at Highclere

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

3rd August

Big Tree Climb

www.finkleydownfarm.co.uk

Summer Fayre 26th & 27th July The longest Summer Fayre in Hampshire! A traditional high summer fayre with barbeque, beer tent, Morris dancers, craft

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

www.planet-ice.co.uk/arena/ basingstoke

Learn to Skate in 5 Days

Newbury, RG20 9RN

Charity festival commemorating the centenary of WW1. With performances by the Military Wives Choir, air displays, vintage cars, themed catering, shopping market etc.

Planet Ice Arena, Leisure Park, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG

Gates open 10am. Adults £25 (£30 on the day); children 4-16 yrs £10 (£15 on the day). NO Castle access.

28th July to 1st August

www.highclerecastle.co.uk

Holiday Time!

Traditional Steam Fair & Steam Railway, plus more to see!

Pay once and come back FREE as often as you like!

we Open: Sundays until 12th October Also Wednesdays to Sundays 30th July to Mon 25th August (limited/timed rides Weds to Sats)

Gates open at 11.00am Rides from 12.30pm

Midhurst Road, Liphook, Hampshire, GU30 7LP 01428 724 900 www.hollycombe.co.uk

fo at: More in

forestry.gov. uk/gruffalo Trail runs till

30/09/14

summer...

Exciting forest activities for all ages.

Wild Learning Adventure Camp, Family Bushcraft, Den Building, Wacky Walking Staffs, Gruffalo Fun and more!

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

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 15

WHat’s ON Gilbert’s Games & Country Fair Gilbert White’s House, Selborne, Alton, GU34 3JH 2nd & 3rd August 2014 Gilbert’s Games & Country Fair promises to be fun and games for all the family - whatever their age or ability. Take part or compete in some traditional 18th century games and pastimes including stool ball, Aunt Sally, croquet, cricket and melon rolling! With Regency Dancing and an array of different crafts, the weekend promises to be jam-packed with activities to keep the whole family entertained. Entry to the House, Garden and Games £7 adults, £2 children. 10.304.30pm. Free parking. See www. gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk for more details.

Theatres The Anvil Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR www.anvilarts.org.uk Flash Mob Saturday 5th July, 7.45pm See the stars of TV dance shows headlined by the spectacular Kevin Clifton and Karen Hauer from BBCs Strictly Come Dancing, World Street Dance champions Flawless, as well as Oliver nominated Tommy Franzen and many others. Immerse yourself in the joy of dance – you will be on your feet for this dynamic production. Tickets £26; under 16s £16.50.

Basingstoke Festival of Choirs – Heritage Light Orchestra: A Century of War & Peace Sunday 6th July, 7pm A special concert commemorating the outbreak of World War 1 performed by over 400 voices from Basingstoke and Deane’s finest choirs with the Heritage Light Orchestra. Tickets £15; under 16s £8.

Spectrum!

Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th July, 2.30pm & 7.30pm A spectacle in dance and performing arts, exploring the colours of the spectrum by students of Basingstoke Academy of Dancing aged 5 through to adults. Adults £14, under 16s £8.

Rock Choir Thursday 17th July, 8pm 150 Basingstoke Rock Choir members will be performing at The Anvil in support of Living

Paintings. Rock Choir is the UK’s largest and most popular contemporary choir. All tickets £16.

Scooby-Doo Friday 25th July, 7pm Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th July, 2.30pm & 7pm Scooby-Doo and the gang are back by popular demand and with even more Spooky Mystery and fun – this time in the Pyramids – the cartoon classic comes to life! Tickets £20.50; under 16s £15.50; family ticket (2+2) £62.

The Haymarket

Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW www.anvilarts.org.uk Live 2 Dance Academy Friday 4th & Saturday 5th July, 7.30pm Live 2 Dance Academy invites you to join them for a fantastic evening of entertainment as they raise the roof to take a journey through the decades, styles & eras. Guaranteed to have something for the whole family.

Adults £12, under 16s £10.

What the Ladybird Heard Friday 11th July, 2pm & 4.30pm Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th July, 11am & 2pm Two crafty robbers, one tiny ladybird, and a whole farmyard of fun! Book early for this glittering family treat. All tickets £12.50.

Footsteps Dance School Boom Saturday 19th July, 2pm & 6.30pm Boom is Footsteps Dance School’s eighth show and is packed full of entertaining numbers, uplifting music and dynamic toe tapping choreography. Tickets £13; under 16s £11.

Fusion Dance Academy – Showtime 2014 Friday 25th & Saturday 26th July, 7.30pm Fusion Dance Academies return once again with Showtime 2014, bringing back the variety and diversity of many different dance styles under one roof. Adults £11, under 16s £8.

Annie Thursday 31st July & Friday 1st August, 7.30pm Saturday 2nd August, 2.30pm & 7.30pm Rare Productions Summer School presents the heart-warming tale of Annie and her adventures.

Deserted in an orphanage run by

the wicked Miss Hannigan, Annie escapes to an easier life outside during the Great Depression where tomorrow is always brighter because of hope. Adults £15; under 16s £13.

The Gruffalo Thursday 18th September, 2pm Friday 19th - Sunday 21st September, 11am & 2pm Don’t miss Tall Stories’ hit musical stage adaptation of the awardwinning picture book The Gruffalo

by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Tickets £12.50. Suitable for ages 3 and over.

The Central Studio Cliddesden Rd, Basingstoke, RG21 3HF

icy powers have trapped the kingdom in eternal winter. Adults £5, children £3.50.

The Phoenix Community Choir Concert Thursday 10th July, 7.30pm Join The Phoenix Community Choir for their annual summer concert. All proceeds from the performance go to charity. Tickets £4.50.

Rory and the Sun Thief Saturday 12th July, 2pm In a lonely and forgotten land a girl named Rory wanders the barren landscape under a sunless sky. One day she happens upon a tiny pod of seeds, leading her on a journey to find friends, happiness, and put the sun back in the sky. Join the company for a fun interactive puppet making workshop before the show.

Places are limited so book early.

Adults £6; children £4; family (2+2) £18.

www.centralstudio.co.uk Live & Unsigned Saturday 5th July, 7pm In collaboration with You Rock Music Schools, Central Studio brings together the best of Hampshire’s talent showcasing some of the most exciting new musicians. Aimed specifically at up-and-coming bands, Live and Unsigned gives new artists a true gig experience. Adults £5; students £2.50.

Proteus Theatre Proteus Creation Space, Council Road, Basingstoke, RG21 3DH www.proteustheatre.com How to Fall Upwards Wednesday 9th July, 6.30pm A playful, quirky and exciting new show, performed by Kaveh Rahnama and Laura-Anne Smith, using circus, dance, and a touch of gravitation pull to explore Newton’s Laws of Motion - as well as all the experiments that didn’t make it! Aimed at 5-7 year Olds. Tickets £3.

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.

The Lights

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts CentRE

West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH

Barbados House, Station Rd, Bordon, GU35 0LR

Catch the Dream Friday 4th July, 7.30pmm ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ with it’s easy-to-follow storyline and hilarious characters is perfect for Oddsocks’ trademark interactive style and will be a memorable production performed with live music, exhilarating circus skills and some outrageous hunting dogs. Tickets from £13.

www.phoenixarts.co.uk Film: Frozen Wednesday 2nd July, 5pm Fearless optimist Anna teams up with Kristoff in an epic journey, encountering Everestlike conditions, and a hilarious snowman named Olaf in a race to find Anna’s sister Elsa, whose

www.thelights.org.uk