Families Oxfordshire Summer 2016

Issue 74 - July/ August 2016

Issue

74

FREE T

ak e

a c opy

ÂŽ

Oxfordshire Starting Primary & Secondary school Summer fun & activities Baby signing & childcare What's on

Rye St Antony is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3-18 (and boys 3-11). Established in 1930 as a lay Catholic foundation, the school is situated in a beautiful 12-acre location overlooking the city of Oxford.

Big enough to challenge: small enough to care

Visitors are welcome throughout the year. Please telephone the Registrar, Fern Williams, to make an appointment.

Pullen’s Lane, Oxford OX3 0BY 01865 762802 enquiries@ryestantony.co.uk | www.ryestantony.co.uk

Oxfordshire's leading distribution magazine and online resource for families with 0-12's Oxfordshire Magazine www.familiesonline.co.uk

July/ August 2016

Enjoy Family Entertainment this Summer 23rd July - 1st September Animal Encounters • Miniature Pony Rides Creative Workshops • History Variety Shows Butterfly House • Giant Hedge Maze Sizzling BBQ • Bouncy Castle Adventure Playground

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK TICKETS visit www.blenheimpalace.com Dates, times and prices of activities vary. Please review the relevant details before visiting.

BUY ONE DAY, GET 12 MONTHS FREE*

A precious time, every time. Britain’s Greatest Palace. *Terms and conditions apply

Award-winning tuition with a difference. For ages 5 -14.

Call 01483 447414 to book your free trial session @exploretutors 2

www.explorelearning.co.uk

/explorelearning

Oxfordshire Magazine Editor: Ema Murphy 01993 815966 - 07733 228 038 editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk Next issue: September/ October 2016 Booking deadline: 1 August Copy deadline: 5 August 40,000 readers per issue Printed by Warners

BOOK NOW to be included in our September/ October issue Call 01993 815966 for more details.

Disclaimer: Families Oxfordshire Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Families ÂŽ is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Oxfordshire Magazine are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every 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.

July/ August 2016

In this issue...

4 6 7 8 10 11 12 12 13 14

What's New? How to help your child transfer to secondary school Starting primary school the easy way Summer holiday fun Places to visit Fruity summer snacks Summer childcare options Teach your child to ride a bike in 7 easy steps The benefits of baby signing What's on

Oxfordshire Magazine

3

Families news

What's new?

Celebrate learning with your child The Explore award-winning approach to tuition has a proven record of supporting children both academically and attitudinally. Celebrating children’s achievements is an extremely important thing. This summer Explore is encouraging children and parents to learn new skills together, and to get excited about showing off what they have learned in their local centres and back at school in September. Look out for their stories on Explore Learning’s social media channels and website!

Oxford primary schools go wild!

Misssion for kids: please don’t lose anything at school!

Here at Families we appreciate how hard it can be to prevent your child from losing things, whether it be part of a school uniform, lunch boxes and water bottles, or something they take to a club or a class. But don’t despair, as we know two companies who can help with this. As let’s face it, it’s not cheap replacing lost items and not only that it’s time consuming! Help is however, at hand…

Labels4Kids – because kids lose stuff!

Get ready early for back to school with name labels for clothing, ties and uniforms. Stick on labels is the easy way to label clothing - no ironing or sewing necessary! Just stick the adhesive name label onto the care label of what you want to label and you’re finished.

Developed especially for clothes and with strong adhesion to last many washes.

Labels4Kids is an award winning family business since 2004 and supplies John Lewis. www.labels4kids.com/fam

Great labelling solutions

With waterproof stickers for labelling shoes, lunchboxes and stationery and a choice of clothing labels, such as no iron/ no sew Stick-Easy clothing Use labels and the Easy Tag FAMOX1 0 system allowing clothes to be to get 10% labelled quickly and easily with off your re-usable tags. Use FAMOX10 order! on www.easy2name.com to get 10% off your order!

Creative Craft kits by Stickibox A new business making cardboardbox craft kits for children, has been set-up by two local mums.

Kerry and Pippa from West Oxon, came up with Stickibox, from watching their children spend many a happy hour creating things from cardboard boxes. The Stickibox Car Kit, contains everything needed to create their own car, allowing children to be creative, imaginative and active! What a great way to spend time in or outdoors and fab for children’s parties! Visit www.stickibox.com for more ideas.

4

Does your school need a bus service?

‘Joint Bus’ provides a unique way of running a school coach service and enables schools within a certain area to work collaboratively. Covering 25 routes on a daily basis in the Thames Valley, Joint Bus is already used by local schools, including St Helen & St Katharine, near Abingdon, Manor Prep and Abingdon School. Features of the service include easy electronic booking, wait list alerts and safety briefings. Joint Bus is the single point of contact for all your school transportation needs.

Visit www.jointbus.co.uk

The Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust are encouraging more children and teachers, to reconnect with the natural environment and gave Oxford city’s primary schools a 5 Days Wild Challenge! Children from Larkrise in East Oxford and St Barnabas in Jericho, went so wild they won, as classes completed different activities (Random Acts of Wildness) in five days. Ceri Cadwallader, The Trust’s environmental education manager said: “We had lovely entries and after much debate declared Larkrise Primary School in East Oxford the winners. Both schools encouraged their children to explore their local area, get up close with wildlife and discover nature for themselves.”

Visit bbowt.org.uk to find out about more activities and wildlife.

Fancy an Autumn Challenge?

Get signed up for a valuable cause…The Vitality Oxford Half Marathon returns to the city on Sunday 9th October and places are selling fast. With a fast, flat course through the city, this event is perfect for regulars chasing a PB, and first-timers looking for their autumn challenge. Experience the beauty of Oxford, but hurry as 2015 sold out fast! Starting in the city’s centre, the race takes in its finest sights along the way. 13.1 miles never looked so good! Look out for on-course entertainment and kick your heels to the finish! Charlotte Keen, aged 44 from Abingdon, will be running the Vitality Oxford, after battling Degenerative Disc Disease since she was 24.

She’ll be running to raise funds for Oxford based charity, Blue Skye Thinking.

Go to www.oxfordhalf.co.uk for more info and to sign up.

Congratulations to Abingdon bookshop Owner!

The co-founder of a local independent bookshop, has won the UK’s most valuable children’s writing competition for her unpublished debut. Nicki Thornton, who runs Mostly Books with her husband Mark, won for her “utterly enthralling and constantly surprising” Pictured is Nicki with Barry novel The Firefly Cage. She wins a £10,000 publishing Cunningham, MD of Chicken contract with Chicken House, which will now work with the author on her novel, to be published in 2017, aimed at readers aged 9-12 and tells the story of kitchen boy Seth, caught up in a murder investigation at a magicians’ convention. www.mostly-books.co.uk

Visit our fantastic new website, set to be the UK's no.1 resource for families! www.familiesonline.co.uk

Kickstart a Healthy Summer with Vacufit

By Ema Murphy I first heard about Vacufit through my hairdresser Holly Denton, who also lives and works in Witney, when she’s not visiting clients around Oxfordshire. She’s been using the Vacufit Bar, at 41A High Street in Witney, for two months and has seen great results in terms of fitness and energy levels and has dropped nearly two dress sizes in that time.

Excited to hear more, the next thing I knew I was having my free trial session at Vacufit within no time!

Being a local mum and in my 40’s, I find losing weight hard, especially because I love my food, I juggle running my own business (which mainly involves sitting at my laptop), while raising my active 10 year old daughter and I often lack the time (and energy) to exercise as much as I should do. I’m not a huge fan of running and I generally find the whole exercise thing quite tricky.

Set-up by Ellie Conroy, who discovered Vacufit in Spain on holiday and saw the results it could offer, she decided to bring it to Oxfordshire, where she’s been running the Vacufit Bar since July 2015 and unsurprisingly her client-base is rising.

At Vacufit, Ellie offers tailored programmes in a private environment and one-to-one training. It’s easy to get to and there’s plenty of free parking in Witney, including on the High Street where it’s located.

Vacufit technology makes it easier to accomplish otherwise hard to attain results. As you exercise at a moderate pace on the treadmill, vacuum pressure is applied to the lower half of the body which is sealed into a low-pressure cabin. This encourages the blood flow to be around the stubborn fat cells, enabling your body to specifically target areas women constantly battle with. There are other things the technology can

help with, such as skin conditions and back pain.

Using Vacufit technology for 30 minutes just three times a week for a month, can help you drop a dress size. It’s fast and efficient for busy mums and anyone else who struggles to fit exercise in to a busy schedule. It’s adaptable to all ages and abilities and targets problematic areas that normal exercise doesn’t seem to tackle. Since I’ve used Vacufit, my energy and fitness levels have really improved and my clothes are fitting me much better. It’s also inspired me to do more exercise at the gym! Vacufit is ideal for special occasion’s and it’s even good for post pregnancy body repair.

To book your FREE trial contact Ellie on 01993 706770 or 07810 436 700 or email info@vacufitbar.com. Discounts are available on booking a full programme. It’s a great way to get active and see results fast!

To book your FREE trial contact Ellie on 01 993 706770 or 0781 0 436 700

(Pictured Carol John.)

BOOK NOW

TIME TO ENTER A NEW WORLD Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 to 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today OXFORD 01869 278600 Maya Sprigg oxford@stagecoach.co.uk

BANBURY 01908 969467 Melissa Allen banbury@stagecoach.co.uk

ABINGDON 01865 390970 Julia Howson abingdon@stagecoach.co.uk

THAME 01865 763767 Nicky Goodwin thame@stagecoach.co.uk

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

July/ August 2016

PUT ON A SHOW

Top Junior youth theatre productions during the holidays Major performance opportunities at terrific venues throughout the county for age 4-19. Contact your local Stagecoach principal now as places are limited.

OXFORD 01869 278600 Maya Sprigg oxford@stagecoach.co.uk

BANBURY 01908 969467 Melissa Allen banbury@stagecoach.co.uk

ABINGDON 01865 390970 Julia Howson abingdon@stagecoach.co.uk

THAME 01865 763767 Nicky Goodwin thame@stagecoach.co.uk

Theatre Arts Schools

Stagecoach

TM

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Oxfordshire Magazine

5

Families education

How to help your child transfer to secondary school

By Liat Hughes Joshi It’s one of the biggest transitions of childhood: moving to secondary school. From travelling independently to remembering when homework is due in, your child will need to become a good deal more self-sufficient. Here’s how to ease the transition…

During the months before your little one makes the big move to secondary school, it’s recommended that you begin the following…

Ramp up responsibilities

complicated. Help your child help themselves by suggesting they complete each task soon, so that it doesn’t build up. A homework planner is also useful.

Senior school children have to be considerably more responsible for their own belongings and themselves. Whereas primary school teachers send letters to parents, at ‘big’ school, communication on day-to-day issues might well be to your child only.

Get used to knowing much less about what goes on

Begin by trying to remind your child less about what kit or books they need daily.

Be there for them

Begin building independence out and about

Most secondary school pupils travel to school minus mum and dad, so get yours used to being out without you. It’ll be less daunting for them if this starts on the journey to primary school, rather than being thrown into travelling alone on a lesser-known route. If they haven’t started walking to school alone or with a friend already, the summer term of year six is a good time to begin. The first time or two you could walk a little behind them at least part of the way to keep an eye out.

Listen out for concerns

Some children take this huge change in their stride and are ready to move on, while others will feel anxious. Common concerns include getting lost around a much larger school, dealing with the journey, making new friends and managing the homework load.

In primary, you might well have been at the school gates most days and familiar with your child’s friends, parents and teachers. This will change: with independent travel comes a more hands-off approach.

It’s tempting to think this independence means you’re being made redundant come September but they’ll still need you - albeit in different ways. Be there as a sounding board - someone to listen and advise. And of course, they’ll still be calling upon the Bank of Mum and Dad and parental taxi service more than ever.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including 'New Old-fashioned Parenting' and '‎How to Unplug Your Child' (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

Would you like to promote your business to 40,000 parents? Email Ema to find out how editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

The key is to keep communication going between you – ask now and then how they’re feeling about their new school and listen and reassure them.

Attend settling-in days

Most secondaries hold a session for new joiners, usually during the summer term of year six. This is an important opportunity to get to know the buildings, potential classmates and teachers and it should make the first day less intimidating.

Consider attending any social events at the school too, such as a concert or the summer fair.

Introduce them to other children going to the same school

This won’t matter so much if half your child’s class is heading to the same secondary but if there won’t be a familiar face, try and find prospective classmates through the local grapevine and then arrange a meet up.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind once your child has started secondary school…

open for

POTENTIAL

Many year sevens get very tired thanks to the ‘newness’, on top of a longer day and a more complicated journey. Stick to early nights and restful weekends to fend off exhaustion – and the moodiness that goes with this.

If your son is a bright spark we have Awards that can be worth up to 100% of the fees for boys at 11+ or 13+. Radley is an independent boys’ boarding school near Oxford.

To find out more, come along to our informal visiting day on September 17th – 1pm to 3pm.

Get super-organised with homework

01235 543174

Expect them to be tired and emotional…

At primary, pupils might only have had a small amount of homework; expect the game to be raised now. Not only will there be more but keeping on top of when it all needs handing in can be 6

the door is

www.radley.org.uk

Families education

Starting primary school the easy way

By Liat Hughes Joshi

Starting primary school is a major milestone in your little one’s childhood – and indeed in your life too. So how can you ease them into this big change and limit the potential for tears on the first day?

Help your child get used to the idea of school

In the months approaching the big day, read books about going to school together – Janet Ahlberg’s Starting School or Lauren Child’s I am Absolutely Too Small for School are ideal. This will introduce them to what goes on and let you discuss school together, answering any questions your child might have.

Talk too about your own happy school memories or encourage an older sibling or friend to discuss the things they enjoy at their primary school.

Build familiarity with their new school

Attending settling-in sessions is invaluable to build familiarity and demystify what school is all about. They’ll let your little one meet their teachers, see the classroom, dinner hall and loos, and at least a few prospective classmates.

Meanwhile, if you’re driving or walking past the school, point out positive features, such as the playground equipment.

Don’t worry about reading, writing and maths beforehand

Many parents are concerned that their child can’t recognise letters or count before they begin school but remember this is what they’ll be going there to learn – teachers don’t expect any prior knowledge. Focus instead on non-academic ‘school ready’ skills: things like going to the loo independently and cleaning themselves afterwards, putting their own coat on and eating using cutlery. Being able to listen, sit still, share and follow instructions

Excellence in Independent Education

will make school life easier too.

The day or two before the big day…

Highlight the things they’re excited about, such as a toy that caught their eye in the reception classroom, or seeing the lovely teacher or their friend from nursery again. Pre-empt their anxieties too – these can be little things, for example, how to let the teacher know if they need the loo, or what happens if they don’t like any of the lunch options.

Double check where you are meant to be and when on the first day and what your child needs to bring with them. If you’ll be driving, remember to work out where you’ll park – mum or dad spending 30 minutes getting flustered because you’re late and can’t find a space will not create a relaxed mood for day one.

The night before…

Ease the morning rush by getting everything ready now – uniform laid out, packed lunch made (if they aren’t having school lunches) and school bag packed.

Help the first morning run smoothly

Getting kids from bedroom to classroom on time can be challenging even for the most organised parents. Minimise stress (and how many times you have to say ‘hurry up’) by putting away any toys or turning off screens that are too distracting. Be clear with your child about what needs doing when and keep any messy eaters in PJs until breakfast is over, to avoid ruining that pristine first-day uniform.

It’s time to go in…

Excellence In Independent Education Limited places available for September •Co-educational Nursery & Junior School (3-11) •All girls Senior School (11-18) •Excellent in all categories ISI Report 2014

We all want that perfect first day photo but don't make them late – and irritable – with endless attempts to get it. Stringing out your goodbyes for ages can end in tears that otherwise wouldn't happen – simply remind them to have fun and that you'll be there to collect them later and give them a hug. If they’re nervous or unsure, start a small ritual, perhaps putting a ‘kiss’ in their pocket for them to grab later if they’re missing you.

Don’t forget the tissues

There’s a time and a place for concealing your own feelings from your children and if you’re upset or anxious, this is one of them!

Try your best to wait until you’re out of sight before sobbing, otherwise you could confuse or upset your child unnecessarily.

Once they’ve gone in, if the waterworks do roll, rest assured you probably won’t be the only one, so don’t worry about what other parents or teachers think!

Contact our Registrar Mrs Alison Young on 01491 651 218 or admissions@cranfordhouse.net Cranford House School, Moulsford, Oxfordshire, OX10 9HT

www.cranfordhouse.net

July/ August 2016

Oxfordshire Magazine

7

Families summer

Summer holiday fun

We’ve compiled a list of great family days out and events happening this summer in Oxfordshire, as well as some super summery recipes!

Stagecoach Theatre Arts is opening in Botley, Kidlington and Watlington! www.stagecoach.co.uk

To accommodate a pressure on places in the Oxford area, Stagecoach Theatre Arts is opening new centres in Botley, Kidlington and Watlington this September. There will be weekly term time classes in drama, singing, and dance for ages 4-16. Open meetings for Kidlington and Botley will be held on Saturday 16 July.

Stagecoach Oxford principal Maya Sprigg says ‘Performing arts training gives a child an added perspective on life and Stagecoach provides a perfect blend of learning and performing. There are a range of performance opportunities from classwork to large scale productions.

Children from Stagecoach have appeared in a host of productions this year including ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Abba Mania, Motown The Musical, The Herbal Bed, Priscilla Queen of the Desert to name but a few!’

For more details call your local principal:

Thame and Watlington: 01865 763767

Oxford Headington, North Oxford, Botley and Kidlington: 01869 278600

Banbury: 01908 969467

Abingdon: 01865 390970

Marlow: 01494 533203

High Wycombe, Henley and

Time for Kid’s to Burn that Energy! www.campenergy.com

Camp Energy is one of the UK’s original holiday camp providers, with their youngest campers, aged 4 to 7 years, enjoying an exciting range of games, creative and sports activities including a daily swimming lesson. With a broad range of sports, arts and games for those aged 8- 14, such as tennis, swimming, football, tag rugby and climbing, Camp Energy guarantees to keep everyone active and having fun! Located at Summer Fields and Kingham Hill schools; where there are excellent facilities (even for when it rains!) and where the Camp Energy team put’s on a fantastic, action-packed day.

Children get ahead with Headstart www.headstartnow.co.uk/summer-challenge

Are your children ready for an exciting new challenge this summer?

Headstart Oxford is running three challenges over the holidays from 18 July to 26 August, on Maths, Reading and Science for ages 5-11 and Get Ready for School for ages 4-5. With 40 days of short daily assignments, children can study anywhere - such as on the beach or in the garden! Work is returned on a weekly basis, in order for children to collect the six badges required to enter into the prize draw! Simply get them registered online and away they go!

Summer Fun at Super Camps The school summer holidays are a time for children to have fun whilst keeping active in body and mind. Super Camps give children the opportunity to do just that, with a range of camps and courses to suit everyone. Camps are full of great new activities for 2016, with a guarantee of water activities at all camps during the summer. You can also rest assured knowing that your children are at the best camp in town after receiving yet another Outstanding Ofsted rating in 2016.

Call 01235 467300 to enquir for venues at Burford School, Cheney School, Cherwell School, Radley College and St Mary's Primary in Chipping Norton.

THE UK’S NO.1

PER DAY

HOLIDAY FUN! MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM TO 6PM

WITH ACTIVITIES FOR AGES 4 - 14

Children learn new skills, gain confidence and meet new friends, safe in the hands of caring, qualified, fully vetted staff. The multi activity and specialist camps, offer great value for money with no hidden fees. Book now using the code FOX at www.campenergy.com Summer Fields School – 18th July to September 2nd Kingham Hill School, Chipping Norton – 25th July

Love your Tennis www.marksontennis.com

If you or your children enjoy playing tennis then why not sign up to a week of coaching at the Jonathan Markson Tennis Camp at Oxford University? With 5 hours of professional coaching each day this is the perfect way to improve your tennis and have an amazing experience this summer. The professional international coaching team uses the latest technical drills and on-court video analysis to boost your performance. The Camp runs for 9 weeks (26 June to 28 August). Special family weeks - 31st July and 21st August. For more info call 02076032422, info@marksontennis.com.

8

FROM

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01235 467300 • WWW.SUPERCAMPS.CO.UK Bored children?... Need summer holiday Childcare?...

Then look no further... because the experts are back...

CAMP ACTION SUMMER BREAK We have summer break covered with fun packed days for your children, suitable from ages 4-16 years, see over for our timetable. No need to worry either - have total peace of mind when leaving your kids with our fully trained staff. Local at Launton.

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BOOK NOW! at www.campaction.co.uk or for more info contact Elite Dance on 07842 902207 or email info@campaction.co.uk

WATCH OUT FOR OUR SPECIAL EMAIL OFFERS ON BOOKING

www.campaction.co.uk info@campaction.co.uk

07842 902207

Visit our fantastic new website, set to be the UK's no.1 resource for families! www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Phone & r t ou ask abou fers special of ur yo e to mak cost even cheaper!

New Website for Families!

Full show d on an informati ailable re av tickets a om w no fr om e.c yfileliv

countr

Look out for the launch of the fantastic new Families website in early July.

The areas covered by this magazine will now be covered by four local websites covering the north, south, east and west areas of Oxfordshire.

This new hyper-local approach will allow Families Online to bring you information about a wide range of things to do both close to where you live – and across your region.

BBC Countryfile comes to Blenheim Palace Presenters from the BBC’s Countryfile climbed into a sixteen foot “haystack”, at Blenheim Palace, to launch the first ever Countryfile Live which is set to bring the best of the Great British countryside to the stunning stately home and grounds from 4th-7th August.

Matt Baker, John Craven, Adam Henson, Anita Rani, Ellie Harrison and Tom Heap were all out in force to launch Countryfile Live which is set to be one of the country’s biggest outdoor events.

You can look forward to seeing the best of the current site, including places to go and what’s on events and activities, education, childcare, classes and clubs and parties, as well as some great new features, including eating out and local services.

The site will be more comprehensive than ever and easier to use, offering inspirational ideas for things to do with the kids locally and helpful parenting tips and advice to support you and your family.

It’s in the same place – familiesonline.co.uk look and find your local site!

2016 has seen Countryfile reach its highest ever ratings of 8.7 million viewers, making it the most popular programme on British television and affirming the British public's appetite for all things rural.

Countryfile Live will be a truly unique event in the picturesque grounds of Blenheim Palace, combining the tradition of the UK’s best county fairs with stars from the show across four extraordinary days, perfect for all the family (and our four legged friends!)

The event is sponsored by investment management firm Quilter Cheviot and is being staged in association with the National Trust.

Matt Baker, “We're opening up Countryfile to the general public and allowing a hands-on experience for all those who watch and love the programme. We hope people will come along and have fun with all the family. It's a full-on live experience with a bit of a festival vibe”

OL! BACK TO SCHO STICK ON IRON ON SEW ON SEW NO IRON - NO GS PENCILS & BA

You name it we label it!

Call us on: 01635 298326

John Craven, “I've been involved in the show for a quarter of a century, and we've never done anything like this before! You can meet the presenters, see hundreds of stalls, and have a go at lots of things. It'll be a country show like no other” In addition to this, Countryfile Live will also play host to over 500 exhibitors. Visitors will be treated to a huge choice of shops on an unprecedented scale, from independent food and craft producers to major luxury brands, hundreds of the nation’s best craftsmen and women will be in attendance, providing thousands of options for the public to find the perfect take home item.

With on-site camping available, Countryfile lovers can even make a weekend out of what will be one of the biggest, and most exciting, outdoor events this year, an experience that the whole family - and their dog - can enjoy.

Get ready for Rio 2016 We couldn’t let this issue pass by without mentioning the Rio Olympics, which starts on Friday 5 August and ends on Sunday 21 August. It’s the most amazing world sporting event involving over 10,000 athletes from across the globe, who’ll be competing in around 28 different sports activities.

In 2012, I was privileged enough to win tickets to the women’s hockey event at the London Olympics, which was probably one of the proudest moments of my life, taking my 6 year old daughter along to. So this year, we’ll be really making the most of it being on TV and enjoying everything it has to offer. To ensure you and your children experience it too, why not plan ahead and arrange some Rio 2016 events? You could arrange to watch your favourite sports, followed by a celebratory picnic, or maybe a create a Rio afternoon, involving some of your own activities such as five aside football or netball, mini sports day’s with running, egg n spoon or skipping races, or even a softball or rounder’s match with your neighbours! Or look out for local attractions which might hold big screen outdoor events too.

Watch out online at www.familiesonline.co.uk/Oxfordshire for more updates, ideas and articles!

July/ August 2016

for boys and girls 18 months - 7 years Classes being run on:

Saturdays Lord Williams Lower School Thame OX9 3NW For class times visit

midbucks.kiddikicks.co.uk /timetable

01296 290204

Call Email midbucks@kiddikicks.co.uk

free trial sessions – get in touch for details

Oxfordshire Magazine

9

Cowley Road Carnival

P laces to visit

Day out with Thomas

2016 Cowley Road Carnival On 10 July at 12 noon, the traffic stops and the Cowley Road resounds to the rhythms and vibrant colour of Carnival. With hundreds of dancers and musicians taking part there is something for all the family.

Themed “All the World’s a Stage” there’ll be around 800 participants, from local schools and the wider community. St Gregory the Great and Botley Primary schools will go as “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and there’s dance from 1 Afro Fusion dance and Sol Samba and so much more! Procession starts at 2pm and last year over 45,000 people attended!

Wild Keeper Experiences at the UK’s Only Crocodile Zoo Give your kids a summer to remember with a truly unique keeper experience at Crocodiles of the World. Their keeper experiences range from half day junior croc keeper experiences (for age 6+) to shorter mini experiences with the Monitor Lizard (for age 10+) or Meet the Meerkats (for age 5 +). These wild encounters enable children to get closer to the animals, learn fascinating facts, help with feeds and experience a taste of life at the zoo! Summer holiday dates are now available to book online, so snap up an experience today! www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk/keeperexperiences

Blenheim Palace Visit Blenheim and enjoy a fun and memorable day out for the whole family. Pack a picnic and dine al fresco amongst over 2000 acres of landscaped Parkland or enjoy a sizzling favourite from the BBQ. Visit the Pleasure Gardens and get involved in a host of fun activities and events taking place throughout the summer, including Animal Encounters, Miniature Pony Rides, History Variety Shows and a variety of Creative Workshops. Enjoy the permanent attractions in the dedicated family area including a Butterfly House, Marlborough Giant Hedge Maze, Adventure Playground and bouncy castle. www.blenheimpalace.com 10

Rhino Month 1-31 August 2016 Keepers will be doing a daily talk throughout August at 2pm near the Rhino Paddock about these magnificent animals, the threats and the conservation work that is going on to try and protect them for future generations.

A special Rhino weekend takes place on 6-7 August, August 6th - August 7th 2016, aimed at helping raise awareness and funds for Rhino Conservation work in Africa through fun activities and competitions.

Cotswold Falconry Flying Displays will take place every weekend from 23rd July to 21st August including the Bank Holiday.

Thomas & Friends return to the Watercress Line for more family fun on 6-14 August.

Shake hands with the Fat Controller, meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, take part in Thomas themed activities and ride the big steams trains all day! FREE Thomas sticker and certificate for every child! FREE activities, bouncy slide, teacup ride, children’s entertainer and Thomas tattoos! FREE rides with Thomas, Toad and Diesel! A great value family day out, not to be missed!

Book tickets online or pay on the day. www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk

Be a tourist There’s so much to see in Oxford, so why not be a tourist in your own City and do a local walking tour? Try ‘Alice Met Harry’ which combines Alice in Wonderland with Harry Potter. Alice in Wonderland was inspired by Alice Liddell who spent her early years in Oxford. Her friendship with Charles Dodgson, better known as Lewis Carroll, led to the writing of the two Alice books. Join the tour and discover the places that inspired one of the most famous children’s books including Christ Church, set in beautiful grounds. Retrace the steps of Harry Potter, with a visit to the Divinity School, used as Hogwart’s Infirmary in the films. Tours for fair-weathered children as they can be up to 2 hours long, for children with energy! Book tours at www. experienceoxfordshire.org

Fruity Snacks Summer

Fruity sticks

Great for a lunchbox treat, these colourful snacks will soon disappear!

Healthy Banana Granola Bars

These tasty bars are full of protein thanks to the hidden gems; quinoa and chia seeds.

You will need 120g oats 2 mashed bananas 60g quinoa Âź tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon 2 tbsp chia seeds

½ tsp vanilla extract 30g chopped almonds 30g chopped pecans 40g dried cranberries 50g butter or margarine 2 tbsp honey

Children w ho are under fou r not be offer should ed whole grapes beca use of the danger of choking.

You will need 3 Thin plastic straws Mixture of fruit such as grapes, strawberries, kiwi fruit, pineapple, banana, apple Lemon or lime juice How to make: 1. Cut the larger fruit into squares and squeeze some lime or lemon juice over them to prevent them from going brown 2. Push the straws through the pieces of fruit one at a time - make sure you mix up the colours to make it look extra special.

How to make: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Heat the oven to 350F degrees / 180C / Gas 4. Grease and line a baking tray roughly 20cm square.

Mix together the quinoa, chia seeds, salt and cinnamon with the oats in a large bowl. Add the mashed banana and vanilla and then the nuts and dried fruit.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter or margarine over a low heat and add the honey. When melted, fold in to the granola mixture. Pour into the pan and press it down until it is level.

Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Cut into fingers while still warm and leave to cool completely.

Fruity Summer Rolls l need: You wil wberries stra 1 punnet d an t Greek 1 large po rt gh yo u

Snowy Strawberries

This one is super easy and great to get the kids helping in the kitchen. Ideal for summer snacks, they can be kept in the freezer and brought out after a hot day at school.

How to make: 1. Wash the strawberries and trim the stalks and leaves off each one.

2. Put some of the Greek yoghurt in a bowl and roll each strawberry in the yoghurt. Lay them on a flat baking tray.

3. When you have covered all the fruit with the yoghurt, place the tray in the freezer on an empty shelf and leave to freeze overnight.You can then take them off the tray and store them in freezer bags until needed.

July/ August 2016

Usually filled with tofu, herbs and noodles, they are a great snack and if you can find the rice paper wrappers in a local oriental food supplier, you can not only make those but also these amazing fruity rolls, perfect for lunch boxes.

You will need Rice paper wrappers Mixture of summer fruit; watermelon, strawberries, apple, pear, peach, mango,

kiwi fruit etc.

Mint leaves (optional) Lime juice

How to make: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Take the fruit you are going to use, wash and peel if necessary, then cut into very small, cubes.

Drizzle with lime juice over the fruit to prevent browning and stir well to combine the fruits together.

Add a few small or torn mint leaves if your child likes them.

Place a small pile of the fruit at the centre of a rice paper wrapper. Roll one side in, then the two ends and finally roll it up.

Lay it on the open side to stop it falling open.

If you like you can tie it with a chive or a small piece of string but this should be taken off before your child eats it.

Oxfordshire Magazine

11

Families parenting

How to organise summer holiday

Childcare

By Claire Muffett-Reece

Worried how you’ll juggle work with childcare over the never-ending summer holidays? Relax – there are plenty of options to ensure you’ll still be employed come the first week of September…

Looking after your children during the summer holidays is no easy feat for any working parent, with many mums and dads resorting to booking their annual leave separately to ensure someone keeps an eye on the kids.

But it doesn’t have to be that way – regardless of your budget, there are many affordable solutions to keep those wages coming in while your little ones enjoy the summer break.

Relatives

Your first port of call should be looking at close family members to see if anyone could potentially help out. Your parents or in-laws are ideal, as most will revel in the chance to spoil their grandchildren with days out and endless supplies of ice cream! Bear in mind their age and don’t over-burden them if they agree to help, sticking to set times and helping with packed lunches or sending your kids with pocket money towards yet another trip to the zoo. It might be free childcare for you but that doesn’t mean it won’t cost your parents!

Childminders

For many working parents, childminders are the best option over the school holidays, often sticking to the same person they normally get to do the school drop off and pick up. If you don’t have one, ask friends and other mums who they recommend, or look online for Ofsted-registered carers. A more affordable solution to higher-priced kids’ clubs, remember to ask what stipulations they have, such as you providing your child’s meals or whether you’re expected to pay if they are sick or you go away.

Holiday play schemes/summer camps

Open most kids’ school bags towards the end of term and you’ll find half a dozen leaflets offering discounted daycare for specific age groups and boasting a number of fun activities. Usually catered to fit around school hours, they are often based on themes to appeal to your youngster, with football, science, dance and drama top of the hit-list. Run privately or by your local council, this competitively priced option can be booked on a daily or weekly basis and is a fun-filled way for your little one to meet new friends and gain skills in the process.

Working from home

Last, but by no means least, is the hope your boss might be sympathetic to your situation and agree to let you work from home every now and then. Explain your childcare struggle as soon as you can, asking if a day a week might be an option over the holidays before giving them time to think about it. If they agree, make sure you complete all tasks assigned to you on time – regardless of the distractions that come with a demanding child at home! Not getting your job done at home will soon be picked up by management, meaning you’ll most definitely be refused if you ever broach the subject again!

Teach your kids to ride a bike in 7 easy steps Teaching your child to ride a bike has never been easier with these seven simple steps.

1. Begin with a balance bike Balance bikes are great because they have no pedals or stabilisers and are much lighter. Because children can use their feet to balance and move themselves along, those as young as two can learn to balance on their own.

2. Start on flat ground Always begin to teach your child on flat ground – so at a local park or area with no traffic. You can work your way up to small hills.

3. Teach them to use the brake At the age of two and a half to three, children are able to operate a hand brake, as long as it’s gentle enough for their fingers.

Begin by showing your child how the brake works and encourage her to practise.

4. Always wear a helmet Wearing a helmet is a must. The sooner your little one gets used to it, the better. We recommend that you shop for a helmet together to ensure your little biker likes it and will therefore wear it.

5. Look for safety add-ons A steering limiter is highly recommended as this will enable your child to keep in the right direction and prevent falls. While you’re looking at safety equipment, it’s worth purchasing bright coloured clothing or safety vests to ensure she is seen by others at night time.

6. Get an adjustable seat Try to choose a bike that has an adjustable seat as this means the bike can be adjusted to suit their height. When your child is on the bike, both feet should be firmly on the ground – not just the toes – and the knees should be slightly bent.

7. Upgrade to a bigger bike When your child has developed enough skill and confidence you can transfer them to a pedal bike without stabilisers.

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Visit our fantastic new website, set to be the UK's no.1 resource for families! www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families parenting

The Benefits of Baby Signing

By Vicky Lane

Vicky lives in Didcot with her husband and two daughters and they are passionate about baby signing as a way of learning and communicating, and aiding speech development.

As a former linguist and mother of two who has enjoyed Makaton signing and phonics for the past four years, Vicky now leads fun and informative classes, which help babies and young children develop their language skills while having some fun. The classes include music and activities and also provide extra special time, between parent and child.

So, the question is, can signing really help babies to develop and communicate? And Vicky says the reality is yes, that all babies can benefit from learning to sign: •

Bonding activity – you need lots of eye contact and to focus on your little one

•

Opportunity to teach them how to express themselves

•

Babies love being able to share with you what interests them

•

Children have the manual dexterity to sign with their hands before they are physically able to talk

•

No more tears and frustration as they are able to communicate their needs, that they’re tired, their tummy hurts or they need a nap.

Having a two-way conversation for the very first time is quite an amazing moment! When Vicky’s eldest daughter first signed (“milk”) at 10 months, she nearly fell off her chair! More signs came soon after.

Will signing delay speech?

Quite the opposite! Signing won’t delay babies from speaking; instead it can aid language development.

Because signing babies learn the labels for objects (associating the sign with the word), their increased vocabulary and comprehension can actually speed up their language development when they finally start talking.

Let’s take Emma. By her first birthday, Emma signed about 15 signs and said a further 10 words.

Now Emma is 16 months, she is talking and signing constantly, e.g. “more please”, “share”, “sister” and “giraffe”. And she can have proper conversations and express what she wants or needs.

and word together and look out for other signs following shortly!

•

Most importantly, signing together should be FUN! Get siblings and other family members involved, make games and sing songs together. Come along to a signing class where you can learn signs in a fun, friendly environment.

About Rhymes with Signs In Rhymes with Signs Baby Signing classes, we learn Makaton signs for daily life with your baby, as well as nursery rhymes and songs to sing and sign along to at home.

Makaton is an international language programme designed to help adults and children with hearing impairment and learning difficulties such as autism and developmental delay. However, Makaton has also been found to be easy for babies to pick up and a great way for babies to communicate. You may recognise Makaton signs from Mr Tumble (Something Special on CBeebies)!

For more information on Rhymes with Signs Baby Signing classes visit: www.rhymeswithsigns.co.uk.

Find them on Facebook: facebook.com/rhymeswithsigns

love tennis

Key things to remember when signing: •

Consistency – start by introducing a few key signs such as “food, milk, more, sleep” etc and each time you use the sign, say the word too. You don’t need to sign to every single word, e.g. “are you hungry?”

•

Patience! Children learn and develop at different speeds, don’t expect your budding genius to sign after just a few days but it’s all being stored in their memory for later use.

•

Be observant – babies won’t always be able to replicate a sign perfectly. They might be signing to you, just not as you expected!

•

As with any new skill, lots of praise, keep repeating the sign

July/ August 2016

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Families what's on

What's On

Your guide to family events this July & August.

Visit our website for more what’s on in 2016 www.familiesonline.co.uk DAIRY DATES & EVENTS 02 Jul Clayton Only Running Day Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Chinnor, OX39 4ER chinnorrailway.co.uk Visit the D8568 locomotive which arrived by rail to Chinnor in 1992. In full working order this event will be a chance for enthusiasts and alike to admired an original locomotive during this unique opportunity. £11/£28 Until 13 Jul Play the World Pegasus Theatre Magdalen Road, Oxford, OX4 1RE pegasustheatre.org.uk Join Emma Boor and a host of puppet friends in an interactive installation exploring a different world each week from farmyard to outer space! This fun and engaging session for parents and toddlers is very popular so advanced booking is essential. £3. Thursdays.

2 Jul Trail: Down the Rabbit Hole Pitt Rivers Museum Oxford, OX1 3PP prm.ox.ac.uk For all lovers of Alice in Wonderland...

Explore the story of Alice through some of the curious objects in the museum.

The Museum offers the chance to explore the classic story through the objects on exhibit. What better way to teach a much loved classic to younger hearts.

10am-4.30pm

2 Jul-28 Aug Brass Rubbing Cotswold Wildlife Park Bradwell Grove, Burford, OX18 4JP cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Join in some brass-rubbing at Cotswold Wildlife Park A popular brass-rubbing centre is situated in the Manor House at Cotswold Wildlife Park, open during school holidays and summer weekends. There are a number of brass plates of animal and other subjects in various sizes. All paper and waxes are supplied, prices range from £1.00 to £2.50.

8-10 Jul Cornbury Music Festival The Great Tew Park Ledwell Road, OX7 4AF cornburyfestival.com A Festival that the whole family can enjoy with something for everyone: a lovingly crafted, top notch, very English open air party, tailor-made for the whole family. With music, comedy, camping and lots of free children’s activities for a fun filled day or weekend.

8 Jul A Little Look at… Colour Pitt Rivers Museum South Parks Road, OX1 3PP prm.ox.ac.uk An active hands-on exploration telling the tales of objects in the Museum.

Little ones will enjoy this dedicated morning for them to spend time learning and exploring the objects

in the museum in a way that is specifically catered for the very young.

10.30am-11.30am. Under 5s.

9 Jul Pond Wife Pegasus Theatre Magdalen Road,, OX4 1RE pegasustheatre.org.uk Watch the classic The Little Mermaid story with a twist. It’s 1997, the Spice Girls are at the top of the charts and one fifteen-year-old mermaid is about to discover music for the very first time!

This is a reimagining of Hans Christian Anderson’s classic The Little Mermaid, with glitter, terrible dance routines and your favourite 90s pop hits. 55 mins.

Ages 7+. 7.30pm / £10 10 Jul Teddy Bears' Picnic & Family Funday Didcot Railway Centre, OX11 7NJ didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk Railway themed Teddy Trail, Competitions for Bears, Steam and Diesel Trains in Operation Free admission for Children with Teddy

Bears, displays, Lancaster Fly-Past (Weather permitting!) Children’s Activities and Crafts in the Picnic Area, Story Reading. 10.30am-4pm 10 Jul Cowley Road Carnival Cowley Road, OX4 1DD, cowleyroadcarnival.co.uk Traffic stops and the Cowley Road resounds to the rhythms and vibrant colour of Carnival. With hundreds of dancers and musicians performing up and down the street and on stages there’s something for everyone, with the theme "All the World's a Stage".

12pm-5pm 16 Jul Saturday Science Club Stansfeld Park Douglas Downes Cls, Headington, OX3 8SB eventbrite.co.uk/e/saturday-science It’s time to get messy at an outdoor session to explore the grubbier side of science. Children will blast off a tiny rocket, create lemon scented suds and enjoy the science with a variety

In partnership with

Home of Thomas & FriendsTM toys

We are looking for special families If you would be willing to share your home at weekends and exeats during school term with a boy or girl whose own parents live abroad, and you would welcome an additional contribution to the household budget, we should be delighted to tell you more.

Join Thomas & FriendsTM at a heritage Railway near you.

Experience a ride on a real steam engine and take part in Thomas-themed activities.

MID HANTS RAILWAY ‘WATERCRESS LINE’ Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG

www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk Day Out With ThomasTM Thomas the Tank EngineTM. Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2016 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2016 HIT Entertainment Limited.

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Alpha Plus Guardian Services already has host families in Berkshire and Oxfordshire who enable us to offer children from abroad locally based support and a home from home during halfterm holidays and exeats…… but we still need more – especially in the Oxford and Reading areas.

To find out more without obligation or commitment please contact us: 01865 428320 oxford@alphaplusguardians.co.uk Alpha Plus Guardian Services 41 Essex Street, Oxford OX4 3AW

Families what's on of fun science events. Various times ages. See online for exact details and location. £8.

15 Jul-31 Aug Millets Maize Millets Farm Centre Friford near Abingdon, OX13 5HB milletsfarmcentre.com Family fun; 3 mazes, quizzes, fort maze, courtyard play area, go-karts, pedal tractors, sandpit, bouncy castle, trampolines, skittle alley, garden games & more!

21 Jul Big Bang Science eventbrite.co.uk/e/saturday-science Who doesn’t love blowing things up?!

Start the summer holidays with a bang at this explosive workshop for families.

Be ready to get messy with exploding bags, vitamin rockets and more! See online for exact sessions, times and venue.

22 Jul Discover and Play Little Wittenham Nature Reserve Earth Trust, OX14 4QZ earthtrust.org.uk Forest School offers children handson learning experiences in a natural environment. Join in for a morning of play and discovery in the woodlands. £4 donation per child, accompanying adult(s) free, No need to book. All funds support the Trust's work. 10am-12pm 23 Jul-21 Aug Cotswold Falconry Displays Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens Burford, OX18 4JP cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk The Cotswold Falconry weekends will show you Vultures, Owls, Falcons and Eagles. A variety of Birds of Prey, all of which are free flying. As they fly close by you’ll witness their speed and grace.

23-24 Jul Archery Weekend Millets Farm Falconry Centre Frilford, Nr Abingdon, OX13 5HB milletsfarmfalconry.co.uk ”Have a go” soft archery and demonstrations of Archery from around the world. Have fun having a go at the soft archery and watch archery demonstrations. Millets Farm Falconry Centre and see over 90 birds of prey along with Meerkats, Ferrets, Reptiles.

Under 16’s accompanied by an adult.

No dog allowed. Closed on Mondays.

See online for exact openings.

10:30am-4:30pm.

Workshop is one of many things going on over the summer at the Palace. Try the Pleasure Gardens which will host a range of workshops and activities.

Times include 12, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm. 30 minute workshops.

1-13 Aug (excl. 7 Aug) Oxford Castle Unlocked Oxford Castle, OX1 1AY oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk The Magic of Shakespeare Marvel at the tragic journey of Macbeth from noble, loyal Lord to vengeful King. Then laugh at the Bottom’s transformation from hapless amateur actor to full on Ass! A perfect evening for Shakespeare fans who want to revisit some of the most famous moments and a perfect intro for new audiences. Part of Oxford’s Shakespeare Festival. £15/£13, 7.30pm 1-31 Aug Rhino Month Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens Burford, OX18 4JP cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Listen to what the experts have to say about the Rhino's at the park, who’ll be doing a daily talk near the Rhino Paddock about these magnificent animals and the conservation work they do. 2pm daily.

3 Aug Give A Gnome A Home Frosts Garden Centre Millets Farm, OX13 5HB milletsfarmcentre.com Take your child to paint their very own jolly Gnome to take home and display in the garden and give a gnome a home! With a yummy chocolate treat and squash! £5.99 per child. 25 mins.

Booking not essential. 10am and 4pm.

4-8 Aug Wilderness Festival Cornbury Park Charlbury, OX7 3EH, www.wildernessfestival.com Wilderness is the award winning 4-day festival combining live music, contemporary arts and an array of theatre, craftsmanship and dining experiences.

4-7 Aug Countryfile Live Blenheim Palace countryfilelive.com A unique event in the picturesque grounds of Blenheim, combining the tradition of the UK’s best county fairs with stars from the show across four extraordinary days.

29-31 Jul Beer & Shakespearean Shenanigans Cogges Farm Church Lane, Witney OX28 3LA Cogges.org.uk Join in the festival at Cogges. Now in it’s fifth year, the festival is a change for parents to meet up with friends and celebrate beer and cider for a good night out! Other ‘refreshments’ also available

6-7 Aug Raptor & Reptile Millets Farm Falconry Oxfordshire, OX13 5HB milletsfarmfalconry.co.uk A day with reptiles and Raptors where you can hold a snake, watch a flying display and much more! Cuddle a Python, meet a 12lb Eagle, find the Ferrets, watch the Flying displays and much more.

29 Jul-26 Aug Around the World Family Tours Pitt Rivers Museum South Parks Road, OX1 3PP prm.ox.ac.uk Join in for a family tour to look at ome fascinating and exciting objects from around the world and learn as a family by exploring the world together!

11.30am-1pm. Every Friday.

6 Aug Pitt Stop: Sea Explorers Pitt Rivers Museum OX1 3PP prm.ox.ac.uk Take a look at some wonderful boats and make your own to take home with you. Explore the boats in the museum 1pm-4pm

30-31 Jul Drumming Workshop Blenheim Palace Woodstock, OX20 1PX, blenheimpalace.com Visit Blenheim Palace and enjoy family events that will inspire. The Drumming

July/ August 2016

7 Aug Funday Sunday August: Puppets Go Wild Pegasus Theatre Magdalen Road, OX4 1RE pegasustheatre.org.uk Puppets Go Wild is a joyful experience for under 5s with shows packed full of

SUNDAY 9TH OCTOBER 2016 ENTRIES OPEN

OXFORDHALF.CO.UK puppetry, interactive songs & gentle clowning plus a chance to meet puppet stars. Have your child ever wiggled with a giant worm, seen comedy compost created before their eyes or sung along with a singing carrot? 11am & 2pm/ £5.

10 Aug Woodland Adventure Little Wittenham Nature Reserve Earth Trust, OX14 4QZ earthtrust.org.uk A fun interactive experience and a chance for the children to use their imaginations for 5-8 year olds.

Let them use detective skills to discover the secret destination where they’ll explore, build and play!

10am-12pm / £4 donation per child, accompanying adult(s) free.

11 Aug Beach Party Teddy Bears Picnic Frosts Garden Centre Millets Farm, OX13 5HB frostsgardencentres.co.uk Join the teddy bear entertainers for some teddytastic fun and games on the beach for an hour. Followed by a teddy bears picnic tea with a cheese sandwich, bag of pom bear crisps, cocktail sausages and a teddy bear biscuit then all finished off with a yummy mini ice lolly! Then it’s back to the beach for more fun. Be sure to take your teddies! £9.99 each. 5pm-7pm.

12 Aug-4 Sept Peter Pan in Scarlet The Oxford Playhouse, 11-12 Beaumont St, OX1 2LW oxfordplayhouse.com It’s 1929, and Wendy and the Lost

Boys have all grown up when strange dreams begin to seep out of Neverland. Pirates and mermaids, war paint and crocodiles – the dreams tell them that something must be wrong, and their friend Peter Pan needs their help. Fly through a world of circus and fire, shipwrecks and battles, brought thrillingly to life by director and adapter Theresa Heskins. Ages 8+ 15 Aug There’s No Scrap Like Home Pitt Rivers Museum South Parks Rd, OX1 3PP prm.ox.ac.uk Create your own mini shelter out of scrap. Will it withstand the elements?

Spend the afternoon having fun, working together and using your imagination. Using the scrap available children will get to not only create their own mini shelter but also ensure it has the strength to withstand challenges!

1pm-4pm 18-26 Aug Headstart Summer Challenge headstartnow.co.uk Get the children challenged this summer with a host of activities and things to do, to help keep up with subjects such as Maths, Reading and Science! The Headstart Summer Challenge Celebration garden party is on 29 of August, 11am-2pm in the Barracks Lane Community Garden, off Cumberland Road, OX4 2AP. Everyone welcome! £5 with a free drink, plus free science and games and activities. Register at facebook. com/headstartoxford, twitter @ HeadstartOxford or call 01865 965045.

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