Families Solent East Issue 80 January February 2019

In this issue...

Education and Early Years Special Clubs and Classes What's on this half term ProFessIonAL TUITIon CenTres In Portsmouth and Fareham

I love to learn

n n n n n

Maths english reading/Writing spelling 11+

FR ASES EE SMEN C T ALL n

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Fully Qualified Teachers • Individually Tailored Lessons • Ages 6-16

Telephone: Portsmouth 02393 96 86 26 Fareham 01329 738 100 • www.ilovetolearn.co.uk

Issue 80 January/February 2019 familiesonline.co.uk

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Families Solent East 1

FRIDAY

29 TH MARCH #H attastic

TEACHING LOCAL CHILDREN TO SWIM

SPACES AVAILABLE!

AWARD WINNING SWIMMING LESSONS FROM THE UK’S LEADING PROVIDER Great value for money from as little as £25 per month New classes now available Available up to seven days a week

LOVES TO LEARN A LIFE SKILL Fareham Leisure Centre 01329 233652

Enrol online today at www.everyoneactive.com/swim-lessons

Holly Hill Leisure Centre 01489 571064

Managing Editor Caroline Roope Editorial and Design Caroline Roope caroline@familiessolenteast.co.uk Tel: 02392 042 874 / 07967 597779 Advertising Claire Clarricoates

claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk

Next issue March/April 2019 Booking deadline 4 February 2019

Copyright: Families Solent East 2018 Families Solent East is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Solent East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Solent East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Solent East; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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4 6 12 13

Clubs and Classes Education and Early Years News and Reviews What's On

Dear Reader, Firstly, a very happy new year! As we welcome in 2019 and make our New Year's Resolutions (and try to stick to them!) I'll definitely be thinking about how I can make more time to help other people in 2019. Here at Families Solent East we're privileged to be working with the fabulous folk at Brain Tumour Research again to help promote their #Hattastic Wear a Hat Day on 29 March. By taking part in Wear A Hat Day you will be helping to raise vital funds for research into brain tumours. Find out how you can get involved in our News section on page 12. Have a wonderful start to the year!

Caroline :-) @FSEmagazine @FamiliesSEMag

Families Solent East 3

Raising Confident Children with Perform Sara has two children, Honor (8) and James (6) who have both been attending Perform classes since they were 4 years old.

Clubs and Classes Winter Fun for Families at Horizon This winter Horizon Leisure Centres, the charity that runs Havant and Waterlooville Leisure Centres, has a range of fun activities to keep you and your family entertained.

There are two fun themed indoor soft play centres for the kids to let off steam whilst you sit and relax!

World of Play, Waterlooville Leisure Centre, is a unique ‘around the world’ themed play centre where children can travel the world visiting different countries and learning fun facts. Oceans of Play, Havant Leisure Centre, is an under the sea theme where children can jump aboard a ship and explore the ocean and all the creatures that live beneath.

There are lots more activities for everyone to come along and get stuck into including Adventure Play, Gym Tots, Pre-School Bounce… the list is endless!

To find out more visit: www.horizonlc.com.

Bond with your baby try Baby Massage with Jo Lamb!

Baby Massage with Jo Lamb are small friendly classes offering quality time for you and your baby to connect, as well as the opportunity to meet other parents. Classes are five weekly sessions, learning new massage strokes eachweek. Contact Jo for more information at babymassage.jolamb@gmail.com or

www.facebook.com/babymassagewithjolamb

* New dance class starting 7 January! * Baby Groovers & Mini Moovers Flash Dance A fun and active dance group that uses light sensory equipment and instruments, and uses a range of music from the 1950s up until the present day. Get on your dancing shoes and join in!

Mondays at Waterlooville Community Centre, PO7 7AY Mini Movers 9:40-10:30 Baby Groovers 10:40-11:30 Wednesdays at Portchester Community Centre, PO16 9AD Baby Groovers 1:00-1:50 Mini Movers 2:00-2:50 The Baby Groovers groups is for children from newborn up until confidently walking. The Mini Movers group is for children from walking up to 4 years old. Contact Roxanne on 07724 406504 or rnsilk@googlemail.com for more details.

4 F amilies Solent East

“I’ve always wanted my children to feel confident speaking in public and chatting to all sorts of people. I think these are essential life skills these days” says Sara.

Sara was drawn to Perform because of its focus on developing confidence and self-esteem in a fun way. “It’s not a pushy stage school” she explains. “Each week, the classes focus on a topic like manners, making eye contact or introducing themselves, but this is wrapped up in a highly engaging way in the context of drama and songs.”

“Since my children started attending Perform, other parents frequently remark on their confidence and how well they speak in school assemblies. I’m really impressed with how they chat to adults in places like shops and restaurants.”

Classes at Perform are small with two teachers per class.

“The teachers are professional actors with amazing energy and enthusiasm. They go out of their way to understand and engage every child” reports Sara.

Perform offers a FREE no-obligation dance or drama class in Chichester, Fareham, Waterlooville or Petersfield.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book.

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-12s Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration.

The Perform curriculum ensures plenty of fun, using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, music downloads and videos for the children to play at home, keeping the magic of the classes alive.

Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today.

Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child's true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention.

Venues: Chichester: St Michael's Church Hall, Summersdale Road, PO19 6PN. Mondays 4 - 5pm (4-7 year olds), 5 - 6pm (7 - 12 year olds) Petersfield: Salvation Army Hall, Swan Street, GU32 3AD. Mondays 4-5pm (4-7 year olds), 5-6pm (4-7 year olds) Fareham: Titchfield Community Centre, Mill St, PO14 4AB. Tuesdays 4-5pm / 5-6pm (4-7 year olds), 6-7pm (7-12 year olds) Waterlooville: All Saints Church Hall, Catherington Lane, PO8 0TD. Tuesdays 4-5pm (4-7 year olds), 5-6pm (4-7 year olds) Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk

www.perform.org.uk

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Clubs and Classes

Dance - Movement with Purpose

By Andrew Campbell If your child is always prancing around the house practising their moves and can’t be dragged away from Strictly even if chocolate or ice cream are on offer, signing up for dance classes is a great way to tap into their enthusiasm for music and movement. As well as being lots of fun, dance classes offer a host of other advantages:

Physical health

Dance improves flexibility, coordination, balance, range of motion, stamina, muscle tone, strength and posture.

Self-awareness

Through dance children develop spatial awareness, become less clumsy, and pay more attention to others sharing their space. They can feel more at home in their own skin.

Self-expression

Children struggling with language can express their feelings and creativity with immediacy in a positive way through dance and movement.

Family Fun at Horizon Leisure Centres Swimming Inflatable Swim Sessions Indoor Play Centres Toddler Groups Teen Gym Workout Kids Holiday Club Adventure Play

VISIT US TODAY!

Socialisation

Dance is a highly social activity. In a dance class, children learn how to work as part of a team, develop a greater sense of trust and co-operation, and make new friends.

Cognitive Development

Children strengthen their cognitive abilities and memory skills through learning and remembering choreography.

Behaviour

Dancing requires intense focus, discipline and co-ordination.

This can have a calming effect and help children release pent-up energy.

Self-confidence

Dance helps build self-confidence with each new routine they practice and master.

www.horizonlc.com info@horizonlc.com

Waterlooville Leisure Centre

023 9224 5900

Havant Leisure Centre

023 9247 6026

There are a wide range of dance classes available – for both boys and girls – from pre-school ballet classes to primary ballet, tap, street dance, contemporary dance, pop dance and many more.

Help your child grow in confidence One of the most important skills children can master is self-confidence: it will help them build friendships, perform well in school and resist negative peer pressure. But while some youngsters are blessed with a natural ability to run headlong into new activities others need a little help.

According to the team at performing arts school Stagecoach Havant, performing arts can give even the shyest wallflower confidence.

“It’s not only about training children to perform on stage, it’s about helping them to perform better in life,” says Juli Richards, Principal at the stage school.

For more information on Stagecoach Havant’s classes, go to www.stagecoach.co.uk/havant familiesonline.co.uk

Unlock your child’s potential with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year olds.

Find out more today:

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

stagecoach.co.uk/havant havant@stagecoach.co.uk 0845 521 3730

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Creative Courage For Life

Families Solent East 5

Fairthorne Manor Nursery Where little people have BIG adventures!

Education and Early Years Special Can't we just use spell checkers?

Families Solent East talks to Howard Jones, Centre Director at I Love to Learn Professional Tuition about learning to spell.

"Those of us who struggled with spelling ourselves, or are in the process of helping little ones learn their ‘tricky’ words, would love the answer to this question to be “Yes!” Spelling rules just seem, well, unruly, and anyway don’t too many corrections crush creativity?

The problem is that we learn spellings in a variety of ways.

Sometimes we have to spell the whole word from memory, these are the dreaded ‘sight ‘or tricky words, but more usually we need to sound out and decode words using phonics (letter sounds).

If your child enjoys BIG adventures, loves the great outdoors and would enjoy learning through play in a unique woodland setting, then Fairthorne Manor Nursery is the place for them.

A local hidden gem, the nursery provides excellent quality childcare and a unique environment for babies aged 4 months up to children aged 5 years. The nursery is located in the manor house with access to 111 acres of stunning parkland and woodland, on the River Hamble.

Children can access a wide range of activities led by an experienced team who place the emphasis on fun. Activities include pond dipping, boat trips, archery and even learning fire lighting, and lots more.

Naomi Gatland, Nursery Manager commented “We all work extremely hard and I am so proud of my staff and children.

Each day brings a different exciting adventure and gives them the foundations for further social, emotional and learning skills" Please call us if you’d like more information on 01489 772222 or visit www.ymca-fg.org.

Words are both symbols on paper and sounds we say, so when we read words we hear them in our head. This is what makes poetry or songs work well and sound attractive (or not).

You might say, but why not just spell phonetically? Sadly, there is no one way to say a word, just ask the Australians!

Also, if words that sound the same (e.g., rain, rein and reign) were spelled the same way, their meanings would be harder to work out.

Back to the tricky words then; try getting the child to see the shape of the word (using joined up handwriting), say, and hear the word.

This will help the ‘working memory’ learn better!"

Howard Jones is a Centre Director at I Love to Learn Professional Tuition. "We tutor children after school in maths and English in our dedicated education centres in Portsmouth and Fareham."

Does Your Child Need Help With Maths?

There is a way to super-charge your child’s Maths confidence. Jade from Rownhams, Southampton was worried about her daughter: “Lola was finding maths quite tough, both at school and at home. In turn, her confidence was non-existent, meaning she struggled to enjoy maths activities. Since using Maths Club by Post, there has been a genuine shift in Lola's attitude towards learning Maths and her confidence is flourishing! She loves receiving her maths packs! She particularly loves the games, and the sense of achievement she gets once she has completed them.”

Try for FREE at MathsClubByPost.co.uk 6 F amilies Solent East

If, like Jade, you are worried about your child’s Maths, see if a FREE pack from Maths Club by Post can help your child flourish too.

Go to: MathsClubByPost. co.uk

Explore, Discover & Learn at Ryde School Ryde School is the independent day and boarding school on the Isle of Wight for boys and girls aged 2 ½ to 18.

Alongside the vibrant academic curriculum, children spend time immersed in nature through beach and forest school sessions, fostering their natural desire to learn and explore. Inter-schools maths challenges, interactive science sessions in the Senior and Junior School Science Labs and fun, educational residential trips like a night in a museum or a trip to Salamanca help children ignite their passion for learning.

Linda Dennis, Head of the Junior School, firmly believes this igniting of children's excitement for learning ensures pupils and their teachers discover pupils’ talents, enabling them to enhance those talents, ready for the Senior School and the wider world.

Team sports matches against other schools, on and off the Island and sailing competitions in the School’s own fleet of dinghies also embed the team spirit and healthy competition that are part of the Ryde School ethos.

Wrap around care is available to extend the school day from 8am until 6pm with Breakfast and Supper Clubs available for all children.

Ryde is ten minutes by Hover from Southsea – join us for our next Open Morning on Saturday 2 February 10.00am until 12.30pm. Meet the teaching team, take a tour of the School and enjoy a complimentary family lunch.

For more information please call 01983 617970 or email admissions@rydeschool.net familiesonline.co.uk

Education and Early Years Special An Outstanding Start at Brookham Nursery Nestled in the South Downs National Park, yet a stone’s throw from fast links to London, Brookham Nursery provides an outstanding start to a child’s educational journey.

Nursery & Pre-Prep 3-8 Years | Prep School – Day & Boarding 8-13 Years

The newly refurbished Nursery has been beautifully redesigned in order to reflect the school’s stunning grounds by using natural tones and materials. This tranquil and spacious environment, with free access to the outdoors, has been created to feel like a home from home. The calm and thoughtfully designed space enables children to focus on quality learning experiences, whether curled up on a beanbag sharing a story with a teacher, expressing their creativity with a paintbrush or glue stick in hand or designing obstacle courses in the garden with logs, blocks and planks.

Brookham Nursery wants all children to have a magical childhood. In order to explore the wonder and awe of the natural world, children are encouraged to take their learning outside at every opportunity, either in their own nursery garden or in the glorious 175 acres of woodlands and grounds that surround the school. Forest school is an important part of the curriculum and even the youngest children have the opportunity to learn skills such as bug hunting, den making and cooking over an open fire.

In addition to the children immersing themselves in the wonderful learning opportunities provided by the highly qualified nursery team, their learning is also enhanced by weekly Spanish, PE, swimming, music and ballet sessions, all led by additional specialist teachers.

For availability please email: admissions@brookhamschool.co.uk

Highfield Open Morning Saturday 9th February, 10am—12 noon Brookham Pre-Prep & Nursery Bespoke visits, please call to arrange For more information please visit our website or call 01428 728000 | www.highfieldandbrookham.co.uk Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ

OPEN DAYS & DISCOVERY SESSIONS Independent day & boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 ½ to 18 JUNIOR SCHOOL EXPLORATION & DISCOVERY SESSIONS Saturday 26 January and Saturday 9 March 10.00am to 12.00 noon OPEN MORNING Saturday 2 February 10.00am to 12.30pm School tours, interesting activities and a complimentary family lunch FOR MORE INFORMATION Call +44 (0)1983 617970 or visit www.rydeschool.org.uk/open-days-and-visits Queen’s Road, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 3BE

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ISLE OF WIGHT

Families Solent East 7

Education and Early Years Special gone wrong. Your primary goal has to be raising well-balanced individuals who want to engage with the world with curiosity and fun.”

How children learn new things

"Every age is a window of opportunity for engaging children, showing an interest, exposing them to a wide variety of experiences,” says consultant clinical psychologist Emma Citron, who specialises in children and adolescents. “The approaches might change but children don’t stop needing that input once they reach school age.”

The science bit So what’s going on in there? Learning any new skill means building connections between brain cells called neural pathways. Not everyone learns in the same way, so the neural pathways for mastering the same skills can take different routes, but the more they are used, the stronger they get. Similarly, circuits that aren’t used will weaken until eventually they no longer exist. “Physically, emotionally, socially, in every way the development process is ongoing,” Emma emphasises. “Even a child of 9 or 10 would potentially need remedial parenting or therapy if for whatever reason they were suddenly not enabled to develop.”

Create the right environment “A young child needs to be in a caring, stimulating environment, where you are making eye contact, playing, giving your attention and time, and being patient,” Emma points out. The same applies when that child is attempting to master a new skill a few years down the line. And as parents we learn pretty quickly not to introduce anyting new or challenging if it’s nap or feeding time. “That hasn’t changed. If your child has switched off because they’re tired, overloaded, working hard at school all day and being shunted from A to B to C after school, they’re not going to be ripe for learning much of anything.”

“I don’t want to” The brain circuits for the most critical activities, such as breathing, are already developed at birth. Those for the next wave of core skills – moving, eating and communicating – happen instinctively within roughly the same time frame for all babies because they are at some level essential for survival. When it comes to later skills, whether it’s swimming, riding a bike, playing chess or singing, there is no inherent drive to learn so the motivation has to come from elsewhere. What that is will depend on each child’s own personality, abilities, confidence and interests, friends and support, access, and understanding of benefits in the longer term.

Have fun!

Compare your time in the classroom with your children’s now, particularly at primary school, and we all recognise that professional teaching methods have changed dramatically.

“Gone are the days when you’d expect children to just ingest information,” Emma states. “It’s not all a top-down process. We know that most children learn best by being given the resources and space to work things out for themselves, with support there when it is wanted – not by being micromanaged by a socalled tiger parent! “If it’s all seeming like a chore, something’s 8 F amilies Solent East

Fail together Those neural pathways strengthen with use so practice really does make perfect. As beneficial as passing on your tips for the skills you do have and letting children see what can be achieved is showing that you’re not afraid to fail – and keep trying – when it’s something you can’t do. Make sure there are activities in the mix that are new to you, too – and if your child is sometimes the faster learner, they will gain confidence from that boost.

"A young child needs to be in a caring, stimulated environment, where you are making eye contact, playing, giving your attention and time, and being patient."

Be the best model Children will still learn – whether you want them to or not – by copying you. Of course it’s more subtle than the baby mirroring your actions, and the circle of people they will emulate in some way gets larger as they get older, taking in teachers, friends, public figures and others. “Do practise what you preach. It’s a very easy thing to say but one that many don’t actually do,” Emma warns. Don’t say you can’t without trying, don’t fall back on the same automatic excuses, don’t go in with a negative mindset or be overly self-critical, but – most importantly – embrace and share a positive, open-minded, approach to everyday life.

The brain circuits children are forming are powered by everything they are experiencing around them. It is their senses – the sights, sounds, smells, tastes and sensations – and their feelings and emotions that release the neurotransmitters (the chemicals in the brain) to ‘flick the switch’ on their new skills. “Imbue your children with curiosity and passion by showing the same to them,” Emma says. “Everything else stems from this.”

By Anna Wright

Creating the optimal environment for children to learn For children to learn well a good physical environment is very important. Having classrooms that have high quality light, ventilation and vibrant displays ensures that they are attractive places that enable constructive activity.

This is far from the only element that creates an optimal environment. It is what goes on inside and outside of those four walls that really makes a difference. It may sound like I am stating an obvious point but a culture that encourages learning and develops curiosity is essential for individual growth. Many schools or educational settings will espouse this but there are things that need to be in place to make it happen.

One of the barriers can be too many rules. It is key that children learn to behave. However, having a rigid set of rules rather than expectations of conduct leads to the word ‘no’ being used too often and this inhibits investigative learning.

High quality social interaction is encouraged when children learn how others are feeling, rather than fixating on actions that are perceived to be wrong.

A staff team that encourages the core message is a key cog in the learning wheel. Believing in variety, leads to an array of activities. Structure is important but it should not be at the expense of promoting challenge and resilience. Children should be allowed to fail and taught how to pick themselves back up, be independent from a young age and find their voice right from the start.

Paul Marshallsay Headmaster, Portsmouth High Prep School familiesonline.co.uk

Education and Early Years Special

Explorers’ Open Morning Saturday 9 March 10.00 am to 12 noon For girls looking to join Prep or Pre-School Forest School activities in our extensive grounds with science and nature investigations inside spacious classrooms.

First Steps Nurturing and developing a lifelong love of learning is at the heart of our provision for Reception children at The Portsmouth Grammar Junior School and they benefit greatly from a caring and supportive approach to their personal development. It is so important that children feel happy, that their contribution is valued from day one and that they learn to value the contribution of others. Small class sizes, led by a dedicated full time Teacher and TA, ensures this this is possible.

From their first day at school, the children are learning the essential skills of reading, writing and numeracy alongside the personal values of respect, patience, courage, trust, responsibility and freedom of thought.

The foundations provided in Reception year ensure not only a smooth transition into Year 1, but that every child has developed a love of learning that will stay with them for life.

#WhereGirlsDoBetter

Find out more at www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk/open-days

familiesonline.co.uk

Please do call 023 9236 0036 to arrange to come and see us.

Families Solent East 9

What to Do When Your Child Hates Reading

How to stimulate your child's curiosity

It can be difficult to motivate a child who doesn’t love to read. Research confirms that motivation is a key factor in becoming a successful reader. When children are motivated, they read frequently, which in turn helps them become skilful readers. And children who are skilful readers learn well, deeply and successfully.

Before you can work on motivating your child, it helps if you understand why he or she resists reading in the first place. Does your Child Fit into One of these Categories?

Reading is hard!

By Barbara Langford, Director of Studies at Westbourne House School The latest research tells us that intelligence can be developed, and that every child has the potential to be a high performer. Parents often ask us how they can help at home.

There is no generic answer as every family and child is different, but if I had to pick one thing, it would be conversation.

Children pick up almost all their values and attitudes from their parents. Modelling behaviour through conversation is incredibly powerful. If parents concentrate and talk about a child’s effort rather than their achievement, then children will learn to value perseverance.

Taking it in turns to talk and listen to family members helps children develop empathy and an understanding that not everyone shares the same opinions. Talking about a shared book can spark imagination and develop intellectual playfulness. The ability to take one situation and see beyond the obvious is one of the key skills that top performing children are able to do.

Play games together. Jigsaws help pattern spotting and non-verbal reasoning. Playing football or catch helps gross motor skills and coordination. Chess develops strategic thinking. Silly games let children enjoy themselves and develop the sense of the esoteric and ridiculous. The sense that learning something new, whatever it is, is fun and exciting is a gift that we can give our children.

We offer scholarships for children with strong academic potential who enjoy a challenge and are curious about the world around them. Westbourne House is an independent school for children aged 2 ½ to 13.

Meoncross School aims to provide every child from Nursery through to Year 11, with a world class education, within a safe, friendly and family-orientated environment.

Meoncross is a school that consistently achieves high academic results, including impressive value added scores.

Headmaster, Mr Cripps believes that this success is linked, not only to small class sizes and highly trained and talented staff, but is also the result of the school’s strong focus on personalised learning, which allows every child to realise their full potential.

A child who has to work at reading is not likely to find reading fun. If your child feels that reading is too much work, try to begin by identifying and addressing his areas of weakness, with his or her school, if necessary. As he becomes a better reader, he will grow to enjoy reading much more.

Reading is boring!

For some kids, reading isn’t hard, but it isn’t fun either. But it may be that they just haven’t found reading material that interests them. So think about what your child loves to do and find reading material that piques your child’s interest and draws them into reading.

Tips to Help Motivate a Reluctant Reader Make Time for Reading If you and your children have jam-packed schedules and reading is shoved between football and band practice, reading may seem like an unwelcome chore. Allow time for reading so that it can be relaxing and enjoyable.

Set Aside a Regular Read-Aloud Time Reading aloud helps your child develop an interest in reading. Don’t abandon read-aloud time when your child gets older—even teenagers love being read to. Reading aloud to children also encourages them to read thoroughly when they read to themselves. This in turns improves comprehension and levels of immersion.

Buy Audiobooks for Journeys These build a child’s vocabulary and enable them to experience books above their actual reading age. Try to discuss words your children don’t understand. This means they’ll know what they mean when they next encounter them in a book they are reading.

Create a Cosy Reading Nook A special reading space may help encourage your child to settle down and spend time with a good book.

Don’t Judge their Reading Choices The way to suck the joy out of reading is to make your child read something they don’t want to read. Let them choose.

Don’t forget that match reports, comics, graphic novels, magazines and so on are ‘reading too’.

Let them Read Picture Books This provides excellent practice, yet it doesn’t feel like work.

Whilst academic excellence remains a top priority, the Meoncross ethos is that emotional wellbeing and happiness are crucial to educational success. For this reason, a great deal of emphasis is placed on character education and pupil well-being through the school’s shared core values of integrity, family, resilience, optimism, achievement, kindness and adventure.

Be a Role Model When your children observe that you love to read, they are more likely to develop a love of reading themselves. So put down your device, turn off the television and pick up a book!

Meoncross School offers all students a unique and exceptional education, with all-through excellence and learning, inspired by a spirit of adventure.

More info at www.readingagency.co.uk and www.barringtonshoke.co.uk

10 F amilies Solent East

familiesonline.co.uk

Education and Early Years Special

WANTED CURIOUS CHILDREN Westbourne House School seeks intellectually curious girls and boys to join its Prep School (Years 3 to 8) in September 2019.

Children at Westbourne House discover their full potential through an exceptionally broad range of experiences: academic, music, drama, art and sport.

REWARD Scholarships available for children with strong academic potential and/or musical talent.

Apply by 11 February.

www.westbournehouse.org

LEARNING INSPIRED

BY A SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE All-through excellence from Nursery to Year 11.

Meoncross is a leading independent day school on the south coast for boys and girls aged 2.5 to 16 years. We have small class sizes, talented teachers, high quality educational provision and a strong focus on personalised learning and wellbeing. Our students achieve outstanding results at all key stages – including 2018 GCSE results more than double the national average.

01329 666 017 | meoncross.co.uk

admissions@meoncross.co.uk | Stubbington | Fareham

MS0136 Family-half-AW.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk

06/12/2018 13:21 Families Solent East 11

News and Reviews Calling all Dino r's o t i !

Ed ick p

Hunters...

We were really lucky to visit Dinotropolis, Bluewater’s first dinosaur adventure park, last month. The park features animatronic dinosaurs (always a crowd pleaser!), a huge dino jungle soft play set over 3 storeys, dino interactives and lots more.

Dinotropolis has its own special ‘Jurassic Park’ style entrance, with mock gates and torches – great for building a bit of suspense and anticipation. There is ample space for pushchairs in the buggy park so if you’ve got littlies in tow, you don’t need to worry about dragging the buggy up into the soft play area.

There are lots of areas for parents to sit in, if you don’t fancy going into the soft play frame yourself of course. I was happy to go in, until I got stuck half-way down a ladder and held up the flow of child traffic. My children managed to rescue me in a rather undignified manner with one pulling me from the front, and the other pushing me from behind *groan*. At this point I sensibly decided to leave the exploration to the kids #massivefail #Itried!

In the Discovery Cove the kids can search for fossils in the Dino Dig and discover all of their favourite dinosaurs, coming face to face with the ‘living’ animatronic beasts. The park is designed to be both educational and fun. Kids can build their own volcanoes at the scientific sand table, paint and draw in the arts and crafts corner and then bring their hand drawn dinosaurs to life on the huge interactive screens.

In addition to the dino jungle soft play, there is a themed soft play zone area for younger rangers from 18 months to 3 years old and older children can pit their wits and take their chances at sneaking past the sleeping monsters in the dino escape challenge.

The soft play was the real star of the show though, with tunnels, bridges, soft-ball guns, ladders and many different levels. To be honest, I lost both of my children within about 3 minutes of us arriving. They spent a good two hours at the park and didn’t want to leave.

When the rangers are all played out, there’s the Fossil Café for relaxation and refueling. The food was perfect for the kids and included all the usual favourites such as nuggets and chips, pizza, and burgers, as well as healthy options such as carrot and cucumber sticks and fresh vegetables.

Currently wannabe rangers can sign up to the newsletter on the Dinotropolis website to be entered into a competition to win a family pass to the park for a year.

Tickets for Dinotropolis start from £12 for an Explorer Pass that gives full access to Dino Jungle, Raptor Racing Run and the Discovery Cove. The all-inclusive ranger pass for £20 includes the Dino escape challenge and a meal deal in the Fossil café where all the food is freshly made on site.

Find Dinotropolis at Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford, DA9 9ST.

Tickets can be booked via the website at dinotropolis.co.uk 12 F amilies Solent East

Don't miss Tom Gates this March at Kings Theatre, Southsea!

Tom’s doing everything possible to stay out of trouble but somehow he’s got THREE sad faces on the school achievement chart! And getting another sad face means Mr Fullerman won’t let him go on the SCHOOL TRIP! Moany Marcus Meldrew is making things worse and now Tom’s annoyed his grumpy sister Delia. EVEN Amy Porter (who’s smart) won’t talk to him! Can his best friend Derek help? Will Rooster the dog stop eating his homework? Will his grandparents the Fossils ever make something he can actually EAT? From the award-winning producers of Horrible Histories and Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of TOM GATES in an exciting and hilarious adventure that sends Tom’s world spinning!

Don’t miss Liz Pichon’s fantastic characters as they come to life in this brand new story for Kings Theatre.

Box Office 02392 82 82 82 kingsportsmouth.co.uk/ whats-on/show/tom-gates/ Wear a Hat Day 2019 looks set to be the hattiest ever!

If you’re looking for a fun activity for the whole family, look no further than Wear A Hat Day. The annual fundraising event takes place on Friday 29th March, 2019 and the Brain Tumour Research charity needs your help to make it the biggest, boldest and hattiest EVER! There are so many ways to get involved and the little ones will have so much fun, all whilst helping an important cause. From organising a hatty fashion show and making Easter bonnets, to hosting a bake sale and going on a hat-tastic walkabout, you can plan any type of event you fancy… just don’t forget your hat!

By taking part in Wear A Hat Day, you will be helping to raise vital funds for research into brain tumours. The disease is indiscriminate and it can affect anyone at any age. What’s more, brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet historically just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.

Register for Wear A Hat Day and your family can help change this; simply go to

www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/weara-hat-day/wear-a-hat-day-registration

familiesonline.co.uk

11 January The Mozart Question Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP. 01243 781312 www.cft.org.uk/whats-on/event/themozart-question The Mozart Question is a story of friendship and family, truth and secrets interwoven by the power of culture and music. Suitable for audiences from 8 years old. 7.30pm / From £10, family tickets available.

12 January Mischief and Mystery in Moomin Valley

We’ve scoured the area for local family events this January and February! We take great care in compiling our events guide, but please contact venues before you leave home as things can change.

Until 27 January South Downs Planetarium Winter Shows South Downs Planetarium and Science Centre, Sir Patrick Moore Building Kingsham Road, Chichester, PO19 8RP. 01243 774400 www.southdowns.org.uk/Events.html Experience the magic of the night sky in comfort together with expert commentary by a professional astronomer. Surrounded by the stars the team will show you the constellation figures and demonstrate how the stars and planets move. The full dome shows feature stunning immersive video and breathtaking images.

Sunday 13 January, 3.30pm - The Northern Lights

Stars, Moons and Planets Sunday 20 January, 3.30pm - The January Wolf Moon Friday 25 January, 7.30pm - Stars on Frosty Winter Nights Sunday 27 January, 3.30pm - The Northern Lights Further details on all of the above shows can be found on the South Downs Planetarium website. Tickets: Adults £7.00, Children £5.00. Tickets can be purchased online or bookable in advance (pay cash or cheque on the door) by ringing 01243 774400 or ticket hotline 07818 29729. The Planetarium is open from 45 minutes before the show to 45 afterwards.

Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, 0844 847 2362. www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk/ whats-on/mischief-and-mystery-inmoomin-valley Magical puppetry, an ingenious set, original music and interactive play will delight young audiences aged 4 to 7 years and encourage them to immerse themselves in a unique participatory storytelling experience. Expect snow, surprises and plenty of Moomin mischief. See the website for ticket details and performance times.

13 January BBC Concert Orchestra Family Concert Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP. 01243 781312 www.cft.org.uk

Family ticket: half price for up to four Under 16s with every full price paying adult (top price only)

Chichester Festival Theatre, Oaklands Park, Chichester, PO19 6AP. 01242 781312 www.cft.org.uk/whats-on/event/amidsummer-nights-dream Flute Theatre presents an adaptation of Shakespeare’s story by Kelly Hunter, with music by Tom Chapman, specifically for young people with autism. See the website for further details. £10 per participant, accompanying carer free.

25 January – 2 February Avenue Q Kings Theatre, 24 Albert Road, Portsmouth, PO5 2QJ. kingsportsmouth.co.uk/whats-on/ show/avenue-q/ Catch-up with all your favourite (and unforgettable) characters on a downtown New York street trying to make sense of life’s burning issues – like what do you do with a BA in English?

How do you find your purpose? And is the internet really just for….never mind.

Please note that Fri 25 & Sat 26 Jan are preview performances. See website for more details.

26 January Ryde School Junior School Exploration and Discovery Sessions

Hoist the main sail! CBBC’s Naomi Wilkinson and the brilliant BBC Concert Orchestra are setting off on a musical adventure at sea. Conducted by Natalie Queen's Road, Ryde, Isle of Wight, Murray Beale. For ages 7+. 4pm / £10 - £25. PO33 3BE. 01983 562229.

FAMILY FUN DAYS

Friday 18 January, 7.30pm - Wintertime

Fishbourne Roman Palace Family Fun Days

Mon 18th - Fri 22nd February 10am - 4pm

Drop into Fishbourne Roman Palace this half-term between Monday 18 – Friday 22 February and find out what it was like to live in Roman Times!

Find out about life in Roman times!

Fun for all the family!

Find out what the Romans did for us, from pottery-making to dressing up, creating mosaics to spinning and weaving - it’s all about getting hands-on. The activities, which run from 10am to 4pm, are included in the admission price, making it a great value family day out.

familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

16 -26 January A Midsummer Night's Dream

Any other times by prior arrangement only. Not open to casual visitors.

While visiting the largest Roman residence in Britain, discover objects from 2,000 years ago and see how the palace would have looked in its heyday.

MORE

ONLINE

PO19 3QR

01243 785859

www.sussexpast.co.uk

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What's on www.rydeschool.org.uk/OpenDays-and-Visits

For children aged 6-10 years. Discover computing and drama the Ryde School way! 10am - 12noon. Parents to drop off, no need to stay. Booking essential as spaces are limited. Contact junior. office@rydeschool.net or 01983 617940.

26 January The Gruffalo Storytime Special Gosport Discovery Centre, High Street, Gosport, PO12 1BT, www.hants.gov.uk/ librariesandarchives/library/events/ eventdetail?id=371905 A storytime special at Gosport Discovery Centre. A Gruffalo? What’s a Gruffalo?

Find out by joining us to hear this popular story and stay to take part in some crafty fun. Suitable for children aged 3 – 10 and must be accompanied by an adult. FREE, no need to book but places are limited. 11am to 12noon.

29 January Tuppenny Explorers: Winter Wilderness Tuppenny Barn, Main Road, Southbourne, PO10 8EZ. 01243 377 780 www.tuppennybarn.co.uk/event/ tuppenny-explorers-winterwilderness/?event_date=2019-0129 Join in with nature inspired activities at Tuppenny Barn. Explore all that is still thriving at Tuppenny Barn and look after those creatures who find this season particularly tough; the birds. You will be making bird feeders to look after them, and you will record this in your journal. £5 per child.

2 February Guildhall Games Fest Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB. 0844 847 2362 www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk/ whats-on/guildhall-games-fest Gamers, prepare to get your geek on as the ultimate retro and board gaming festival returns to Portsmouth Guildhall bigger and better than before! The event is open to all ages (under 14s to be accompanied by an adult). See the website for more details.

2 February Ryde School Open Morning Queen's Road, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 3BE. 01983 562229. www.rydeschool.org.uk/OpenDays-and-Visits 14 F amilies Solent East

Experience the wonderful atmosphere of Ryde School first hand at their Whole School Open Morning. 10am 12.30pm. Complimentary family lunch will be provided.

information boards and answer a series of Portsmouth related questions!

3QR. sussexpast.co.uk/event/familyfun-days-6

16 – 17 February Dear Zoo!

2 February Imbolc: Celtic Spring Festival

New Theatre Royal, Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD. 02392 649000 www.newtheatreroyal.com/ performances/dear-zoo/

Drop into Fishbourne Roman Palace this half-term and find out what it was like to live in Roman Times!

Find out what the Romans did for us, from pottery-making to dressing up, creating mosaics to spinning and weaving – it’s all about getting handson. The activities, which run from 10am to 4pm, are included in the admission price, making it a great value family day out.

Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, PO8 0BG. 023 9259 8838 www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/ event-list Join Butser Ancient Farm for the afternoon to celebrate the end of winter! Hosted by Jonathon Huet, the afternoon’s entertainment will include storytelling, poetry, singing, firelighting and a light, warming meal – all included in your ticket price! £15 per head. Starts at 1pm, see the website for more details.

6 February Meoncross School Open Morning Meoncross School, Burnt House Lane, Stubbington, Fareham, PO14 2EF. 01329 662182 www.meoncross.co.uk/ admissions/visits-open-days

Dear Zoo the timeless children’s classic book makes its stage premiere. This production will delight, with childengaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction. Perfect for children aged 2 years and upwards. See the website for performance times. £14.50.

16 – 24 February Gullivers Lost Luggage Petworth House and Park, Petworth House and Park, Petworth, GU28 9LR. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ events/015021b9-0ef1-4844-958f3b352ffa7dca/pages/details Enjoy a family fun half term trail at Petworth House and Park. Inspired by a painting of a scene from 'Gulliver's Travels', go on an adventure in the Pleasure Ground spotting Gulliver's lost luggage. Suggested donation £1. Normal admission prices apply.

Open events present the perfect opportunity to view the whole school and learn more about the benefits of a Meoncross education for your child.

Discover ‘School in Action’ when the school is on normal timetable during your visit. 9.30am – 11.30am.

16 – 24 February Tudors in Love

6 October Highfield Open Day

This half term get Totally Tudor as you try your hand at making a Valentines gift Tudor style with this craft activity. 10am. £2 per child plus normal admission.

Highfield and Brookham School, Highfield Lane, Liphook, GU30 7LQ. www.highfieldschool.org.uk See what Highfield School can offer your child. 10am – 12 noon. To arrange a personal visit to Highfield and Brookham please call 01428 728000 or email headspa@highfieldschool. org.uk.

9 - 17 February Stories from the City Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, PO1 3TT. 02392 857520 www.spinnakertower.co.uk/ events/event/stories-from-thecity/ This February half-term, discover fascinating stories from some of the extraordinary places you can see through the magnificent windows surrounding the Tower. Follow the trail around the view, explore the

The Mary Rose, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3PY. maryrose.org/events/2019/02/16/ totally-tudor/tudors-in-love/

18 - 22 February Mystery at the Fort Royal Armouries, Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road, Fareham, PO17 6AN. 01132 201999 royalarmouries.org/event/themysterious-case-of-ran-tan-tommy Get your magnifying glasses and deerstalker hats ready, and come hunt down the clues and solve the puzzles that will unravel the case. Our game is suitable for all the family and is a free activity.

Session times: 11am / 12noon / 2pm /3pm.

Craft activities suitable for ages 3 – 12 just drop in between 10.30am – 3.30pm. £3. 10 am - 4 pm

18 – 22 February Roman Family Fun Day Fishbourne Roman Palace, Salthill Road, Chichester, Fishbourne, PO19

18 – 22 February Spring Half Term Activities Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU. 01243 811363 www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ winter-half-term-familyactivities-2/ From make and take activities to creative crafts – activities vary daily, so there is always something new to see and to try! Most activities are included in the admission price (free for Annual Members) but some activities ask for donations. Wet weather will not spoil play as most activities are under cover.

Activities run from 11am-3pm for accompanied children. Please wear clothes and shoes that are suitable for playing outdoors.

18 February Bedtime Stories: Fairytales Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557 pallant.org.uk/whats-on/bedtimestories-age-5yrs-fairytales/ Ever wondered what magic happens after dark at the Gallery? A special evening of storytelling and making inspired by our House of Fairytales display. Includes a not-quite-midnight snack. £20 per child. Suitable for age 5 and over. 6pm-8.30pm

19 February Textiles Day: 12-17 years Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557. pallant.org.uk/whats-on/textilesday-12-17yrs/ Explore stitch and appliqué techniques to create quilted squares and weave them into a patchwork quilt to exhibit in the Gallery. See the website for further details. 11am - 4pm. £35 per child.

19 February Textiles Day: 7-11 years familiesonline.co.uk

Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557 pallant.org.uk/whats-on/textilesday-7-11yrs/ Create hanging mobiles of your favourite fairytale figures. See the website for more details. 11am-4pm. £35 per child.

20 February Playing with Plaster Family Activity Portsmouth City Museum, Museum Road, Portsmouth, PO1 2LJ. 02392 827261 portsmouthcitymuseums.co.uk/ museum-events/event-detail/ playing-with-plaster-familyactivity A fun and messy family friendly activity. All materials provided. Please bring an apron or dress for mess.

Suitable for all ages. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Max 2 children per adult and 2 adults per child. Sessions run 10.30am - 11.30am, 12pm - 1pm and 2pm - 3pm. Advance booking essential.

20 February Paper Day: 12-17 years Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557 pallant.org.uk/whats-on/paperday-12-17years/ Discover the art of paper cutting, creating intricate cut-outs and use spray paint to produce your own bold, illustrative designs. See the website for more details. 11am-4pm. £35 per child.

of both adults and children, with large bespoke wooden and metal puppets, live music and stories that speak to all generations. Performance at 2.30pm, tickets from £7.

21 February Airfix Extravaganza D-Day Museum and Overlord Embroidery, Clarence Esplanade Southsea, Portsmouth, PO5 3NT. 02392 827261 theddaystory.com/airfixextravaganza-2 Drop in to The D-Day Story and have fun making and painting your own genuine Airfix model to take home. Drop in any time from 10am to 4pm, no need to book.

21 February Sculpture Day: 7-11 years and 12-17 years Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557. pallant.org.uk/whats-on/sculptureday-12-17years/ Create a cast of your imaginary character inspired by the work of Cathie Pilkington.

See the website for more details. 11am4pm. £35 per child.

22 February Printing Day: 12-17 years Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557. pallant.org.uk/whats-on/youngpeopleprinting-day-12-17yrs/ Stencil, stamp and print to discover the art of screen-printing. See the website for more details. 11am-4pm. £35 per child.

20 February Paper Day: 7-11 years

22 February Printing Day: 7-11 years

Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557. pallant.org.uk/whats-on/paperday-7-11years

Pallant House Gallery, 9 North Pallant, Chichester, PO19 1TJ. 01243 774557 pallant.org.uk/whats-on/youngpeopleprinting-day-7-11yrs/

Rip, fold and cut to construct your own 3D cityscape. Bring it to life with projected images and text, then climb inside. See the website for more details. 11am-4pm. £35 per child.

21 February Lily and the Albatross Ashcroft Arts Centre, Ashcroft Arts Centre, Osborn Road, Fareham, PO16 7DX. 01329 223100 www.ashcroft.org.uk A tale of wild weather, wild birds and wild ambitions for ages 5+.Tall Tree makes theatre that touches the hearts

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Create a monograph print using mixed media to make a dream-inspired design.

See the website for more details. 11am4pm. £35 per child.

23 February Vicky and the Victorians Groundlings Theatre Co, 42 Kent Street, Portsmouth, PO1 3BS. 02392 739496 groundlings.co.uk/ Two comic mad professors and various hysterical characters take the audience back in time to experience a roller coaster ride through Victorian streets. See the website for more details.

BOOK A SPECIAL GLOW–IN-THE-DARK BIRTHDAY PARTY & THE BIRTHDAY CHILD GOES FREE!!! (T&C’s apply) Book a birthday party with a difference and set sail on a ship destined for high seas and adventure on our 18-hole, indoor, glow in the dark Ocean Paradise Adventure Golf course located at Chichester Golf Club.

Prices start from £12.95 per child for a mid-week party or £14.95 per child at the weekend. The party package includes party invitations, 18-holes of golf, fun certificate and party food served in your own dedicated party room in the café. As a special offer for Families Solent East Magazine readers, if you book a mid-week party the birthday child goes FREE! To take advantage of this great offer please quote FSEFREE when you book. (T & C’s: Offer valid for midweek parties held by 31/03/19 .

Excluding school holidays).

www.chichestergolf.com 01243 536666 Chichester Golf Club, Hunston Village, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 1AX

Rain won't stop play this winter!

Does your child already love playing the outdoor Jungle Paradise Adventure Golf course, but has never been able to enjoy playing it for their birthday because it has always been too wet and cold during the winter months? Then good news! For their birthday this year they can play adventure golf in the warm on our new indoor, glow in the dark, Ocean Paradise Adventure Golf that has recently opened at Chichester Golf Club.

This exciting new indoor, 18-hole adventure golf course uses UV blacklight paint which glows in the dark to create an amazing experience for everyone with interactive holes, sound and special effects.

Ocean Paradise will take you on an amazing voyage under the sea where pirates, mermaids, sharks and a giant octopus will try and stop you from finding the buried treasure!

The adventure golf course is an ideal venue to book a children’s birthday party with a difference and because it is indoors you can play all year round without having to worry about the weather!

The large on-site café is a great place to sit and relax after a fun game of adventure golf. Our speciality is made to order pizza and last orders for food will be 45 minutes before closing. See website for timings.

Birthday Party Offer for FSE Readers Book a birthday party mid-week during term-time for just £12.95 per child and the birthday child goes FREE. Includes the party invitations, 18-holes of indoor adventure golf, fun party certificates and the party food served in your own dedicated party room in the café.

To book a party and claim this offer please call us on 01243 536666 and quote FSEFREE. Offer valid for birthday parties that take place mid-week by 31st March 2019.

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