Issue 100 Jan/Feb 2024
familiesonline.co.uk
Team Sports, Individual Sports & Team Building, together, create well-rounded young people
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In this issue
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News & views
5
Pre-schooler play places
6
Thriving not surviving: the toddler years
8
Nurseries at independent schools
9
Independent school open days
Sleep deprivation and mental health – In10 this issue have you been affected?
Transform Your Outdoor Play Space We are a family run business based in Hampshire and are experts in the design, manufacturing & installation of playground equipment for Schools across the South.
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2. 12 Parties What are your rights as a step-parent? 4. 13 Education What’s on diary 8. Interview To advertise in our next 18 Children’s 9. Early Years theatre issue contact Sarah: 10.19 Travel February half editor@familiessurreywest.co.uk 11. Work term holiday or 12. Summer camps camps and 01737 558898 nearly& new sales 13. Classes clubs 14. Parenting 16. Outdoor toys
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ltation today !
call 01252 641 740 or email info@play-scene.co.uk
Childcare
Portsmouth Rd, Guildford
Places available; all funding accepted
www.childsplaypreschool.co.uk Pa r ties
Mind blowing kid’s science parties!
Little Trotters Pony Parties
Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination.
Soft Play NEW
Soft play on Monday, Wednesday & Friday in Busbridge Village Hall for ages 6 months +
Parties also available bearslittleplay@gmail.com
www.bearslittleplay.com
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Help your baby communicate before speech & aid toddler speech development
Classes in Farnham, Guildford, Godalming and Fleet
www.singandsign.co.uk singandsignfarnham@gmail.com
Small Weekly classes in for 2-6ssize Holiday Camps but big in fun – Schools & Nurseries Parties perfect for both Dinky Dance home and travel! Classes Babies to 5 years Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat am Birthday parties
C hild ren's Classes
www.littletrottersponyparties.co.uk
Award-winning music class for 0 - 3’s that teaches baby signing!
www.pitchpals.co.uk
www.genielab.co.uk
Magical pony parties for 2 1 2 - 10 year olds in Chobham, Woking
A unique bonding experience between parent and child learning water safety and water confidence in a fun environment.
Claim your FREE Little Shopping Lotto game NOW* www.turtletots.com/surrey
Child’s Play Pre-School
To book a FREE class visit www.perform.org.uk/try Demi Point Dance Studio Brookwood Ballet/modern for all ages Adult fitness/dance
www.demipointdancestudio.com
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Fully qualified professionally trained teaching staff. In the heart of Guildford. www.guildfordtheatreschool.co.uk
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Sarah on: Familiesonline.co.uk Childcare vouchers accepted - join online Contact today! 01737 558898 or editor@ familiessurreywest.co.uk
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Families Surrey West 3
News & Views Boost your child’s confidence in 2024 with a FREE Perform class
Does your School need a new playground?
The new year is a great time to start something new and Perform is offering every child a free trial class to help them shine this spring. With two brilliant new themes incorporating confidence-building fun, classes for 4-7 year olds will join a high-energy adventure to the Wild West while 7-12 year olds enjoy a dancefloor-filling adaptation of Snow White, in Killa Queen.
Playscene are a family run business based in Hampshire, they have over 20 years’ experience and are knowledgeable in creating unique and exciting playground environments for schools and communities across the Southeast.
Classes are packed with confidenceboosting games which focus on developing the 4 Cs - confidence, communication, coordination and concentration - using drama, dance and singing. At the end of each term, the children will take part in a show-stopping final performance for family and friends so you can see the progress they’ve made! Classes are for all abilities with no previous experience required and children are welcome to join at any point in the term. Book a no-obligation FREE trial at www.perform.org.uk/try
Local Perform Classes in West Surrey:
Playscene have worked with many local schools on a range of different schemes, they understand the benefits that come from play, particularly in a child’s early years where imagination, confidence, judgement, and social awareness are developed alongside physical activity. Offering expertise in anything play for schools, they pride themselves on going that extra mile! They manage the whole process from the initial consultation to completion, allowing for a smoother process and attention to detail. They can provide a full and comprehensive range of playground equipment and services, including creative playground markings, colourful outdoor furniture, outdoor multifunctional classrooms, fitness, and trail equipment as well as a range of safety surfacing, there is something to suit all budgets. Big enough to cope, small enough to care! To find out more, scan the QR code or visit www.play-scene.co.uk
Christchurch Hall, Guildford: Ages 4-7 Sat 9.30am & 11.15am, Wed 4pm. Ages 7-12 Sat 2pm, Wed 5.05pm. Hoe Valley Community Building, Woking: Ages 4-7 Wed 4pm. Ages 7-12 Wed 5.05pm. Moorcroft Centre, Woking: Ages 4-7 Sat 9.30am & 11.15am. Ages 7-12 Sat 2pm. Haslewey Community Centre, Haslemere: Ages 4-7 Tues 4pm. Ages 7-12 Tues 5.05pm. St Peter And St Paul Church Hall, Godalming: Ages 4-7 Fri 4pm. Ages 7-12 Fri 5.05pm. Farnham Maltings: Ages 4-7 Wed 4pm. Ages 7-12 Wed 5.05pm.
Challengers launch free family fun days
Local disabled children’s charity Challengers have recently launched family fun days at both their Guildford and Farnham sites. They run on various Sundays and families can come along and make the most of what their play schemes have to offer, including soft play and outdoor play areas. You need to book a free ticket for your family (see their website for more details) and then you can drop in anytime from 10am-2pm. The first ones this year are on Sun 7 Jan in Farnham and Sun 14 Jan in Guildford. Challengers also have pre-schools in Guildford (Stoke Park) and Farnham (St James Avenue). Their pre-school settings perfectly represent their mission to create places where all children can have fun and learn together through play. They are not a specialist SEND pre-school setting, however they can provide support for children of all abilities, including disabled children and children with more complex needs. Free Early Education for Two years olds (FEET) is available for eligible 2 year olds, and children aged 3 and over will be able to use their Early Years Free Entitlement (EYFE). Visit disabilitychallengers.org for more details.
4 Families Surrey West
Introducing the Waterproofs and Wellies campaign The Outdoor Guide Foundation has the simple aim of making the outdoors accessible to all - and that starts with children. Nearly one third of primary school children in the UK come from families that are living below the poverty line. This means there is little money for household essentials, let alone for buying suitable clothing for outdoor play. Enter the Waterproof and Wellies campaign. Over the next five years, it aims to donate at least ten waterproof suits and wellies to all twenty thousand primary schools in the country. Why? Because time outside is vital and a startling statistic suggests prisoners get more time outside in an average week than some primary school age children. Waterproofs & Wellies has already donated kits to more than three hundred schools. With your support, the campaign can do much more. To find out more and support the campaign, visit www.theoutdoorguidefoundation.org
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Pre-schooler play
Early Years
Looking for somewhere to take your little one? Here are some great places to visit
The Hen House
The Mucky Cow Play Café
Gym Jams
Bears Little Play
The Hen House is a soft play cafe in Haslemere designed for ages 0-8. There’s a designated baby area with mini ball pond, rocker, soft bricks, mirrors and animal heads all set within a cushioned walled area. For walkers and beyond there is the farm yard soft play structure that features a double cow print slide, sliders, spinners, climbers and nets. There’s a sensory room with a light up dance floor, ride-ons and walkers as well as a role play area and reading corner. The coffee shop offers homemade cakes, fresh pastries, snacks and a food menu. They are open 7 days a week for 60 minute or 90 minute slots booked via the website. A creche runs every Wednesday and Thursday morning from 9.30-11.30am. Booking for the crèche is essential.
Gym Jams is an awardwinning traditional style soft play, exclusively for babies and toddlers, in Normandy, Guildford. Providing a clean, safe environment for little ones aged 0-3 years to explore at their own pace, learning to crawl, toddle and climb under and over the equipment. It’s a fantastic facility that teaches socialising and sharing which has proved a massive hit. It gives the grown-ups a chance to relax away from home, offering a chance to enjoy a cuppa and the opportunity to chat and make new friends. Many grown-ups look forward to it as much as the children do.
The Playroom
The Playroom is a new Montessori stay and play based at the Community Centre on Sundridge Road, Old Woking. With a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, they run sessions on Friday mornings from 10am-11.30am. The Montessori method of education is at the heart of The Playroom with child-led learningthrough-play. You’ll find fine-motor-skill toys, sensory materials, schematic-play toys, tuff tray-play, small world play, loose part play, physical play equipment and role play toys, plus coffee and cake for the grown-ups. Booking is essential via bookwhen.com/ theplayroomstayandplay
Wee Nature Spirits
Wee Nature Spirits outdoor playgroup in Chobham offers an opportunity to meet like minded families who favour child-led play, with the benefits of fresh air. Using an old marquee and enclosed garden area with pre-school resources set up for babies to around 5 years old. Little ones learn to build resilience, increase independence and get muddy no matter what the weather! Runs on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday mornings. Tasters sessions are £6, book at www.naturespiritsuk.com/wee-nsuk.
Imagination Children’s Role Play
Imagination is an award winning role play and party venue for 0 - 7 year olds located in the heart of Camberley. The 90 minute sessions provide an educational experience to stimulate young minds through role play in a fun and safe learning environment. Children can explore the different rooms which include a Pirate Ship, Jungle room, Vets room and a designated safe play area for babies. The café serves delicious home made lunches, cakes, snacks and drinks with options for dietary requirements. To book visit www.imagination-roleplay.co.uk.
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The Mucky Cow Play Café in Chobham is a safe and fun environment for children under 5 and parents/carers to come together. The play frame is best for crawlers to 3yrs with some great sensory pieces for babies. They are currently running four 90 minute play sessions a day starting at 9.30am (two a day on weekends). They also offer weekly classes including Artcapellas (Mon 9.30am), Little Bears Music (Thurs 9.30am) and Baby Massage (Thurs 2.45pm). Plus there are ad hoc seasonal themed sessions! To book visit www.themuckycowplaycafe.com or follow them on insta @themuckycowplaycafe for what’s on each week.
At Bears Little Play, they provide a fun and safe atmosphere for dinky ones. A mobile soft play which includes a large inflatable with slide and ball pit, ride on toys, soft play shapes and equipment. Bears Little Play have a pop-up café providing hot and cold drinks, a selection of snacks for children and fresh cakes too. They run sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Busbridge Village hall. Booking isn’t required but is strongly advised via bearslittleplay.com. They also offer parties too! Follow them on social media to stay updated @bearslittleplay
Guildford Spectrum
Specky’s Pirate Ship soft play at Guildford Spectrum has four storeys of soft play including ball pools, a trampoline, tube slide, cargo net and sky glide. For Under 5s they also offer Toddler Splash in the leisure pool on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9.30am-12.30pm in term time. You can enjoy the extensive range of low and high level interactive water features including Water Wheels, Tipping Buckets and more. It is advised to book all activities online: www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk.
Godstone Farm
Godstone Farm is home to Surrey’s largest soft play and includes a dedicated baby area and toddler area. These areas allow little ones to discover, explore and play in a safe and comfortable environment specifically designed for them. There are baby sensory items such as bubble tubes and walls, and an infinity mirror, all inside an interesting space with toys suitable for those under 18 months. Toddlers can graduate into their own area and older siblings can let off steam in the all-new GIANT play frame. The café will keep parents fuelled with good coffee.
..Other ideas . . .. ..
360 Play Farnborough Playgym, Woking Gymnastics Club Chobham Adventure Farm Pirates Landing, Camberley Little Street Role Play West Byfleet, Frimley and Rudgwick Haslemere Leisure Centre Soft Play Playstore at Woking Leisure Centre Toddler Takeover at AirHop Guildford
Families Surrey West 5
Early Years
Thriving not surviving: the toddler years By Heidi Skudder
W
hile the baby months pass by in a flurry of contact naps, back-to-back feeds and trying to work out when you will ever sleep again, the toddler years are definitely something to look forward to. Multiple naps a day are over, eating is on its way to being well established and you actually have time to get out and about between meal times. That said, the toddler stage has its own unique challenges which can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, it is possible to actually thrive during these years, not just survive. Here are my top tips and observations. Toddlers start to become more vocal and know their own minds, often refusing to engage in even the most basic daily chores: getting dressed, nappy changes - the list goes on. Prep in advance by talking them through everything you’ll be doing that day step by step, so that nothing takes them by surprise. Poor behaviour is always about communication and although toddler tantrums are considered a normal rite of passage, excessive tantrums and big feelings could indicate that they are trying to tell you something. This could be something as simple as hunger, needing a little more sleep or even a tummy ache that they can’t explain to you. Toddlers simply aren’t ‘naughty’ just for the sake of it. The toddler years often bring phases of fussy eating and food refusal. Keep on top of mealtimes by exposing little ones to a wide range of foods, not giving second choices and recognising that appetites vary day to day. You decide what is on their plate and they decide how much they want to eat.
Toddler eating challenges
Sleep is essential for a calmer journey throughout the toddler years. It’s often assumed that the sacred ‘lunch time nap’ can be dropped at two years of age but the reality is that most toddlers need this nap well into their third year, with some needing it until they go to school. It may sometimes feel like you’re in an uphill battle with your toddler to get out of the house each day. Remember that with time and by rationalising with them, things do get easier. Soon you’ll look back and miss the fight about not wearing their wellies to the supermarket and those muddy footprints will be a distant memory. Heidi is a parenting coach. For online toddler courses including toddler behaviour, fussy eating and sleep, see her website at www.positivelyparenthood.com
Dealing with tantrums
The ‘division of responsibility’ is a well researched model which is proven to successfully encourage healthy eating habits. The model is that while it is a parent or carer’s job to decide what each meal consists of, it is a toddler’s job to decide how much of it they want to eat. Just knowing that this model exists and is successful can save you from too much mealtime angst.
Tantrums are a normal part of your child’s development. They happen when a child is not able to control their own emotions and their feelings bubble over into meltdowns and seemingly difficult behaviour. Whilst normal, this does not make tantrums any less challenging for you as a parent and it can be hard not to get frustrated by your child when they are happening over what seems like the smallest little thing.
By forcing a toddler to take one more bite or holding off on pudding until they eat more broccoli, you are simply making them eat when they don’t want to. Apart from unwelcome tantrums, this can also have long term knock on effects; primarily not being able to listen to what their body is actually telling them. By allowing your child to say when they have had enough and trusting in them, you are setting them up to not only have positive meal time associations but also an ability to trust in their body and the feelings associated with it. A win-win both for parents and child.
During a tantrum, try understanding and listening to how your toddler actually feels rather than telling them to stop crying or assuming that they are just being difficult. Often by identifying with the emotion and feeling, it can really help stop them in their tracks and deal with their feelings more easily. For example, using the words: ‘Oh, you really wanted that ice cream didn’t you, because you love ice cream SO much. I totally understand,’ rather than: ‘stop crying’ is going to elicit a calmer response and help you both move through those big feelings more easily and in less time.
6 Families Surrey West
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Are you looking for a Pre-school in Guildford for your 2-5 year old? Challengers Pre-school has spaces! Open Monday - Friday, 9am -
3pm during term-time. Full day costs £39, half day costs £19.50 FEET, FEE and 30 hours funding
Inclusive setting where our highly trained staff are able to support
Spaces available for January 2024 entry
Haslemere Performing Arts
dance and theatre school
STREET TAP
BALLET CONTEMPORARY MINI BALLET
children of all abilities
ACROBATICS
Soft play area, large outdoor
MUSICAL THEATRE
playground and allotment
SATURDAY WORKSHOPS
OFSTED registered
AND MORE!
Eco School Award with distinction
Meet our friendly team and explore our facilities at: Challengers Pre-school, Stoke Park, Guildford, GU1 1TU GuildfordPre-school@disability-challengers.org
01483 579390
disability-challengers.org/preschool
Scan the QR code to find out more
Monkey Music Guildford, Farnham, Godalming and Ewhurst E: guildford@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01483 821 932
Monkey Music - Byfleet, Ottershaw, Pyrford and Woking E: woking@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01932 429 240
Guildford, Godalming, Shalford E: guildford@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01483 821 932 Godalming Masonic Hall (Tuesday & Thursday) Guildford St John’s Stoke Church (Wednesday) Shalford Village Hall (Monday & Friday)
Excellent Excellent inclusive inclusive theatre theatre training training for for ages ages 5-18yrs 5-18yrs www.surreytheatreacademy.co.uk www.surreytheatreacademy.co.uk
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molly moocow Sing, Dance, Play
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL
Classes now available in Godalming and Haslemere www.mollymoocow.com info@mollymoocow.com
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7
Early Years
Nurseries at Independent Schools Frensham Heights Nursery At Frensham Heights School and Nursery, things are done a little bit differently. To start with there are no uniforms and everyone is on a first name basis. The varied, active curriculum keeps the children’s imaginations alive and small class sizes allow the highly-qualified practitioners to champion curiosity and creativity and to foster the children’s natural sense of wonder. If you’re looking for a more informal learning environment where your child will get outdoors more, explore more and create more, then join their Open Morning on 2 February, 2024. Book your place at www.frensham.org/book-a-tour
Glenesk Nursery A hidden gem in the village of East Horsley, Glenesk Pre-Prep and Nursery School provides an exceptional educational foundation for children between the ages of 2 and 7 years old. Glenesk firmly believe that childhood should be a time of wonder, exploration, and joy. Boasting beautiful gardens and exceptional facilities including an indoor heated swimming pool specifically designed for this age group, Glenesk make it their mission to ensure that each child’s day is filled with special moments of Glenesk magic, every day. To find out more or book a tour, call 01483 282329 or visit gleneskschool.co.uk
Coworth Flexlands Nursery
Little Ed’s Nursery at St Edmund’s School Nestled in the heart of St. Edmund’s School’s expansive 40-acre campus, Little Ed’s Nursery offers vibrant spaces for exploration. Welcoming children from 2 years old, the dedicated learning environment boasts separate areas for Nursery 1 and Nursery 2, ensuring age-appropriate resources for independent exploration. With free-flow access to a spacious covered decking area and a specially designed garden featuring a mud kitchen, sensory space, and more, Little Ed’s fosters a child-led learning ethos. Their commitment extends outdoors with a dedicated Forest School area, enriching the learning experience through nature exploration and hands-on activities. The next open morning is on Saturday 3 February 10am-12pm. To register for the open morning and to find out more visit www.saintedmunds.co.uk.
8 Families Surrey West
Coworth Flexlands believe education must be fun, capture imagination and promote curiosity. Girls and boys in the Nursery enjoy light, spacious classrooms filled with educational games and toys, books, dressing up clothes, craft materials and musical instruments. With specialist teachers for sport, computing, music and Forest School who teach right up throughout the school, your child is very much part of the Coworth Flexlands family. The dedicated outdoor Nursery playground and woodland area further extend the classrooms for open-air discovery, play and Forest School. The next open morning is on Friday 26 January at 10am. Preschool Easter Event: Saturday 9 March. www.coworthflexlands.co.uk
Rydes Hill Nursery The educational pre-school Nursery at Rydes Hill ignites children’s natural curiosity within a fun, secure and stimulating environment. Children enjoy a wealth of experiences, tapping into the main School’s specialist teachers in outdoor Forest School, music classes, drama, dance and several sporting activities. Focus is placed on enhancing communication and language skills to ensure that every child is reaching or exceeding their developmental milestones and developing a love for learning, free of pressure and competition. For more information please visit www.rydeshill.com.
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Independent school open days If you would like to attend an open day, please contact the school to register
Education JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING 2 FEB 2024
A REFRESHINGLY DIFFERENT EDUCATION
School
Open Day Date
Barrow Hills School Witley 01428 683639 Mixed 2-13 years.
Please contact the school.
At Frensham, we like to do things differently, so if you’re looking for an environment where your child will get outdoors more, explore more and create more, then come and see what we’re all about.
Coworth Flexlands Prep School and Nursery Chobham 01276 855707 Mixed 2½-11 years.
Friday 26 January 10am.
www.frensham.org
Cranmore School West Horsley 01483 280340 Boys 2-16 yrs and girls 2-7 yrs.
Friday 10 May.
Frensham Heights School Rowledge 01252 792561 Mixed 3-18 years
Junior School: Friday 2 February. Senior School: Tuesday 27 February
Glenesk Pre-Prep & Nursery School East Horsley 01483 282329 Mixed 2-7 years.
Please contact the school for a personal tour.
Halstead St Andrew’s School Woking 01483 760943 Mixed 2-16 years.
Please contact the school.
Highfield and Brookham Liphook 01428 728000 Mixed 2-13 years.
Saturday 20 January.
Ripley Court School Ripley 01483 225 217 Mixed 3-11 years.
Tuesday 9 January.
Rydes Hill Preparatory School & Nursery Guildford 01483 544973 Girls 3-11 years and boys 3-7 years.
Please contact the school to arrange a 1-1 tour with their headmistress.
St Catherine’s School Bramley 01483 899665 Girls 4-18 years.
Prep School: Thursday 8 February Friday 15 March Senior School: Tuesday 6 February Wednesday 20 March
St Edmund’s School Hindhead 01428 604 808 Mixed 2-16 years.
Whole School: Saturday 3 February 10am-12pm.
St Ives School Haslemere 01428 643734 Mixed 2-11 years.
Friday 2 February 9.30-11am Friday 1 March 9.30-11am.
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Join us on
Friday 2 Feb
A progressive day and boarding school in Surrey for children from 3 to 18 | refreshingly different since 1925
At Glenesk, there’s a little magic in every day. Situated in East Horsley, Surrey, we are an ‘outstanding’ independent pre-prep and nursery school for 2-7 year olds, brimming with opportunities and special moments for your child. To find out more, visit our website: www.gleneskschool.co.uk, or call our Admissions Office on 01483 282329 to arrange a visit.
Families Surrey West 9
Early Years
Sleep deprivation and mental health – have you been affected?
T
rying to function when you are totally exhausted is almost impossible, yet as parents we are expected to carry on with our everyday lives and just accept the fact that sleep goes out the window as soon as you have a baby. How long is it considered ‘just part of parenthood’ before it becomes a serious problem? Sleep deprivation in parents can have a significant impact on their mental health. It may contribute to increased stress, irritability and feelings of overwhelm which can make parenting a daunting and less enjoyable time. Chronic sleep loss is associated with a higher risk of mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. We are told it is crucial for parents to prioritise adequate rest to support their wellbeing, but how can you guarantee this when you have a child that just will not sleep? You become stuck in a cycle of not knowing what to do and wondering if it will ever get better. The looming night ahead not knowing how much sleep you will get can become an anxiety inducing ordeal. Your body needs to sleep as much as it needs the air you breathe. Sleep allows the body to recharge and restore its chemical balance. Without the right amount of sleep, you simply will not function normally and the thought of surviving another day of parenting on only a few hours’ sleep can send one spiralling. It leads me to question why we are not given more support on creating good sleep habits from the moment our children are born? Most people enter into parenthood with the expectation of sleepless nights, but it’s only once you are in the throes of sleep deprivation that you really understand or experience the damaging effect it can have both mentally and physically.
By Fiona Hayward, Calm Sleep Consulting
As a Child Sleep Consultant, I have helped many families overcome their children’s sleep issues and enabled them to regain the much needed sleep that they have longed for. Nearly all the families I have worked with are so desperate when they first contact me and it’s apparent how much their mental health is suffering as a result of sleep deprivation. It is a topic that is not spoken about enough. All children have the ability to be a ‘good sleeper.’ That being said, it is easy to label your child as a ‘bad sleeper’ when you feel you have tried everything to get them sleeping well. If you are worried about the amount of sleep you are getting and feel it is having a detrimental effect on your mental health, it is important that you seek support from a health care professional as soon as possible. I have been working as a Child and Infant Sleep Consultant for the past two years and have helped many families get the sleep they need. I have two children of my own, with another on the way, so I have had my fair share of sleep deprivation. I know how hard it can be and I know how lack of sleep can completely change you as a parent and person. If you would like some support with your child’s sleep, do get in touch via fiona@calmsleepconsulting.com www.calmsleepconsulting.com @calm_sleep_consulting
Here are some tips to help your little one sleep better;
So what will help you with your sleep and mental health if you are struggling;
• Introduce a good bedtime routine, or for older children, have a set time they need to be in bed which is the same every night
• Regular exercise will improve your sleep and help with any feelings of anxiety or depression
• Create a calm sleep environment - a blacked out room and white noise are great for blocking out light and any background noise. Temperature of the room can also make a difference
• Create a calm sleep environment for yourself, making sure your room is clear and you have space to relax and unwind
• Limit screen time before bed as this can cause too much stimulation • Look at your child’s diet - are they eating the wrong things before bed which contain sugar or additives which may hinder sleep? • Fresh air and exercise can have a positive impact on quality of sleep, incorporate some outdoor activities during the day and bedtimes will be easier
10 Families Surrey West
• Keep a consistent routine for yourself. Going to bed at the same time everyday and waking at the same time will help set your body’s natural clock • Get out and about – even in the depths of sleep deprivation, go for a walk and get some fresh air • Ask for help – if you are really struggling with your child’s sleep and you are suffering mentally, reaching out for support can make a huge difference
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St. Edmund’s is an independent co-educational day school for boys and girls from ages 2 to 16 years in Hindhead, Surrey.
TRADITIONAL DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN OLDFASHIONED Rydes Hill is proud to launch ‘The Hub’, our brand new and state-of the-art STEM suite. Book your personalised tour to see ‘The Hub’ along with our other fantastic facilities. Please contact admissions on 01483 544793 or visit www.rydeshill.com for more information.
Stimulating Curiosity Unlocking Potential
Open Morning
Saturday 3rd February 2024 10am to 12pm Contact the Registrar at: registrar@saintedmunds.co.uk
OPEN MORNING from 9.30am Thursday 8 th February 2024 Friday 15 th March 2024 Wednesday 8 th May 2024
St Catherine’s Prep, Bramley GSA Day & Boarding School since 1885 | 4 - 18 years Guildford GU5 0DF | www.stcatherines.info
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Families Surrey West 11
Family life
What are your rights as a step-parent?
B
lended families are on the rise and a common feature of modern family life. An increasing number of couples are entering into relationships or remarrying where one person has children from a previous relationship and their new partner will often form a close bond with the children and play an important role in their day to day life. Despite this, the legal relationship between a step-parent and child is often misunderstood or not known.
What rights does a step-parent have? A step-parent is a person who is married to or in a civil partnership with a child’s parent. Contrary to popular belief marrying a child’s parent does not give the step-parent the same legal rights as a biological parent. A step-parent may be a significant figure in a child’s life and play an active role in their upbringing yet they will not automatically have the right to make important decisions about their welfare even if they have lived together as a family unit for many years. This means that if the relationship is not formally recognised, a step-parent would not be able to consent to a child receiving urgent medical treatment in the event of an emergency or even sign consent forms for school. If a step-parent wants to have a say on matters such as where and how a child is educated, whether they should receive medical treatment, where a child should live and if they should leave the country for a holiday, then they must acquire parental responsibility.
How can you acquire parental responsibility? The simplest way a step-parent can acquire parental responsibility is by entering into a parental responsibility agreement with both parents. This will give a step-parent the same rights as a biological parent and they will be able to have a say in all important decisions. This will however need the consent of both parents which may not be forthcoming if the other parent does not agree to share parental responsibility with their former partner’s new partner. If the other parent does not consent to entering into a parental responsibility agreement, a step-parent can apply to the court for a parental responsibility
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order. This will be a more complex process but a necessary step if the step-parent wants to ensure that they are able to have a say in important day to day and long term decisions. In many cases, after considering the commitment a step-parent has shown towards the child and their attachment to the child a court may take the view that it is in the best interests of a child for the step-parent to have parental responsibility. Other ways of obtaining parental responsibility is by having a child arrangement order in place which names the step-parent as the parent with whom the child shall live or by adopting the child. A step-parent may also be appointed a legal guardian of a child in the will of a parent so that in the event of death, a stepparent would automatically be granted parental responsibility.
What happens if a step-parent separates from the child’s biological parent? If a step-parent separates from the biological parent they may want to continue to spend time with the child and it is often in the best interests of
a child to maintain the relationship into the future. A step-parent who does not have parental responsibility, will not automatically be entitled to see the child if their relationship with the natural parent ends or if there is a divorce. However, they can maintain a relationship with the child by agreement with the parents or through a court order. Step parents play an important role in the modern day family and it is therefore important that they understand their rights and responsibilities and take the necessary steps to ensure that their relationship with the child is recognised.
Hart Brown Solicitors has been providing trusted legal advice to families across Surrey for more than 100 years. Get in touch today and speak to a member of our experienced Family team by calling 01483 887766 or visit www.hartbrown.co.uk. *This is not legal advice; it is intended to provide information of general interest about current legal issues.
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Please check event details with organiser and confirm if booking is needed SAT 6 JANUARY Braille Art, Farnham Library 10.30-11.30am. For ages 4+. Learn about the braille alphabet and write your name or a special message in braille. £3. Sign up at the library or email farnham. library@surreycc.gov.uk.
SUN 7 JANUARY The Make Space, Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village Compton 10.30-11.30am, 1-2pm or 3-4pm. Create a colourful tile with clay. Child £5, accompanying adult pays entry. For 5+. Book online. Family Fun Day Challengers Farnham Play Scheme St James Av, Farnham 10am-2pm. Free. Families can enjoy the play scheme together, including soft play and outdoor play area. You need to book a free ticket for your family online either via Challengers website or at www.tickettailor.com/events/ thehubchallengers. Family fun days run on various Sundays, check online for future dates.
Animal Encounters Tour Merrist Wood Worplesdon 11am or 2pm. On the two hour tour you will see a range of animals, learn about the different species and meet some of the animals. For ages 5+ with an adult. Book online.
SUN 14 JANUARY Family Fun Day Challengers Guildford Play Scheme Stoke Park, Guildford 10am-2pm. Free. Families can enjoy the play scheme together, including soft play and outdoor play area. You need to book a free ticket for your family online either via Challengers website or at www.tickettailor.com/events/ thehubchallengers. Family fun days run on various Sundays, check online for future dates.
Toddler Time Rydes Hill Prep School Guildford 9.30-10.30am. Free session for ages 18 months - 3 years with an adult, younger siblings welcome. These sessions are weekly in term time with a mixture of fun and engaging activities. Booking is essential at www. rydeshill.com/toddler-time
FRI 12 JANUARY No Place Like Home Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30-11.30am. For under 5s with an adult. See the dolls’ house, listen to a story and make your own collage of a house. Child £2.50, adult £1.50. Pre-book online.
SAT 13 JANUARY Kid’s Craft – Bubbletastic! Cranleigh Arts Centre 10am. Learn about bubbles, light and circles and draw your own bubble picture with chalk. For ages 3+. £8. Book online.
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Junior Keeper for a Day Merrist Wood Worplesdon 10am-3pm. For ages 6-10. Join the Animal Keepers for a day, working with a huge variety of animals including tortoises, rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles, birds, meerkats and more. Activities include feeding and watering, maintaining the enclosures and learning how to safely handle some of the animals. £70 per child. Prebook online.
SUN 21 JANUARY Junior Keeper for a Day Merrist Wood Worplesdon 10am-3pm. For ages 11-14. £70 per child. Pre-book online.
TUES 9 JANUARY Mini Gallery Explorers The Lightbox Woking 11am. For under 5s with an adult. Discover the artwork with interactive stories, rhymes and crafts. Suggested donation £5. First come, first-served basis from 10.30am on the day.
Origami Planes Guildford Museum 12-2pm. For ages 5+. Come and make a variety of origami planes. Whose plane can glide the furthest? Inspired by the museum exhibition about the Special Operations Executive whose secret agents parachuted from planes into enemy territory. Free, drop in, no booking needed.
Challengers Family Fun Day
FRI 26 JANUARY
WED 17 JANUARY
Sensory Play St Catherine’s Prep School Bramley 9.30-10.30am. For ages 0-3 with an adult. Stimulate your little one’s senses and further explore the world around them. Free but booking is essential at www.stcatherines.info/prepschool/baby-cats
Winnie the Pooh Day Craft Farnham Library 3.45-4.45pm. For ages 5+. Celebrate the world of Winnie the Pooh by making some pompom characters. £3. Limited spaces, sign up at the library or email farnham. library@surreycc.gov.uk.
FRI 19 JANUARY Mini Painters The Lightbox Woking 11am. For under 5s with an adult. Enjoy some painting fun. Child £6, adult free. Book online. Watts Tots - Myths, Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village Compton 10am-11am or 11.30am-12.30pm. For under 5s with an adult. Child £6. Magical myths and creatures themed session. Book online.
SAT 20 JANUARY Chorister Experience Day Guildford Cathedral 2pm-5.45pm. For boys and girls aged 6-11. Experience what it is like to be a chorister. An afternoon of singing, fun and taking part in a service alongside the Cathedral Choir. Please email liturgymusic@guildfordcathedral.org to book.
Space Explorers Haslemere Educational Museum 1.30-2.30pm. For under 5s with an adult. Learn about the wonders of space, listen to a story and create your own universe! Child £2.50, adult £1.50. Pre-book online.
SAT 27 JANUARY Sing-A-Long-A Matilda New Victoria Theatre Woking 1pm or 5pm. For ages 4+. Sing along to the film! Book online. Adult £18.25, under 16 £16.25 + £2.25 transaction fee. Snowflake Suncatchers Farnham Library 10.30-11.30am. For ages 4+. Brighten up the coldest month with some colourful snowflake shaped suncatchers. £2. Spaces are limited so sign up at the library or email farnham. library@surreycc.gov.uk.
What’s On Diary Haslemere Educational Museum Family Event: Big Garden Birdwatch 12.15-3.15pm. A chance for children and adults to have fun together making simple bird cakes, doing art activities and discovering the birds in the Museum galleries. No need to book. Donations appreciated. Museum Explorers Session: Big Garden Birdwatch 10.30am-12pm. For ages 5-11. Learn about some of the birds that frequent the gardens, make a bird feeder to take home and do bird related arts and crafts. Child £7 (if an adult would like to accompany a child the adult cost is £2). Pre-book online. Animal Encounters Tour Merrist Wood See 13 Jan.
SUN 28 JANUARY All Aboard Club The Lightbox Woking Inclusive train play for autistic, ADHD and special needs children. 11am or 1pm. Book at www.allaboardclub.com.
FRI 2 FEBRUARY Watts Tots - Tiles, Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village Compton 10am-11am or 11.30am-12.30pm. For under 5s with an adult. Child £6. Print bold shapes and repeat the pattern to create a series of paper tiles. Book online.
SAT 3 FEBRUARY Museum Makes Chertsey Museum Free drop-in craft session for all the family. No need to book, just pop along between 1.30-3.30pm.
SAT 3 FEB - 10 MARCH Houseplant Takeover – Plants Before Time Exhibition RHS Garden Wisley Step inside the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley and be transported back millions of years. Pick up a trail booklet and discover fun facts about incredible plants and fossils and spot the footprints of pre-historic creatures. Included in admission. Plants Before Time RHS Garden Wisley
What’s On Diary SUN 4 FEBRUARY The Make Space, Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village Compton 10.30-11.30am, 1-2pm or 3-4pm. Capture the people and things you love with collage and paint onto a hanging wooden heart. Child £5, accompanying adult needs to pay admission. Most suited to 5yrs+. Book online. Animal Encounters Tour Merrist Wood, Worplesdon See listing on 13 Jan.
TUES 6 FEBRUARY Mini Gallery Explorers The Lightbox See 9 Jan.
WED 7 FEBRUARY Cathedral Tots Guildford Cathedral 10am. For under 5s with an adult. A short bible story followed by a craft activity, songs and refreshments. Toys are also available for children to play with. Free, no booking needed.
FRI 9 FEBRUARY Fascinating Fossils Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30-11.30am. For under 5s with an adult. Travel back into the past to discover a time long ago through looking at fascinating fossils. Child £2.50, accompanying adult £1.50. Pre-book online.
SAT 10 FEBRUARY Handling Session: Homes from the Past, Haslemere Educational Museum 11am-12pm or 2.30-3.30pm. Look at homes from the past by exploring some of the artefacts in the handling collection. Suitable for all ages. Tickets £4. Pre-book online. Chinese New Year Craft Farnham Library 10.30-11.30am. For ages 5+. Welcome in the Year of the Dragon by making some dragon puppets. £3. Spaces are limited so sign up at the library or email farnham. library@surreycc.gov.uk.
SAT 10 - SUN 18 FEB Discovery Week Godstone Farm Kids can engage in exciting activities that blend education with fun. Test your farm knowledge with “Whose poo is that?”, explore a world of tactile wonders at the Discovery Cart plus lots more, including Surrey’s biggest soft play!
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Please check event details with organiser and confirm if booking is needed Polesdenopoly
Polesdenopoly Polesden Lacey Great Bookham Explore the grounds of Polesden Lacey by taking part in a fun trail inspired by a wellknown board game this half term. Retrace the steps of past Kings, Queens and Maharajas, whilst you buy your favourite sites dotted around Polesden Lacey. The player who acquires the most property at the end of the trail is the ultimate winner. For ages 5+. Admission + £5 per group (max 5 players per group). No need to pre book. February Half-term Trail Hatchlands Park East Clandon, GU4 7RT 10am-3pm. Explore Hatchlands and see how many wooden (and real) birds you can spot hiding in the parkland. Normal admission applies.
MON 12 FEBRUARY Intro to Performance Puppetry Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford 10am-3pm. For ages 12-16. £40. Book online. Penguin Craft, Ash Library 3.30-4.30pm. For ages 4+. Make some penguin friends for Pebbles the Library Penguin! £2 per child. Sign up at the library or email ash.library@surreycc.gov.uk. Platformer Video Game Design, G Live Guildford 10am. For ages 7-11. Design and build 2D platformer video games using Bloxels. £45 + transaction fee. Book online. The Brick People Denbies Wine Estate Dorking One hour sessions featuring LEGO® bricks from 10am-3.30pm. £3.75 per person. Book online. Children 5 and under are free. All children must be with a paying adult.
TUES 13 FEBRUARY Play in a Day – Peter Pan Princes Hall Aldershot 10am-4pm. For ages 7-11. £21. Book online. Work on a short play that will be performed to parents at the end of the day.
Sleepover in Space Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford 10am-12.30pm or 1.30-4pm. £16. Prop-making, games, dressing up, crafts, space-walking and lots of fun. For ages 5-7. Book online. West End Centre Aldershot Puppeteering Workshop 10.30am-3.30pm. £30. For ages 10-14. Pre-booking is required. Family pottery 10.30am-12pm for ages 3+ with an adult (£13) or 1-3pm for ages 8+ (£14). Prebooking required. Mini artists: Love Bugs 10.30am-12.30pm. For ages 5+ with an adult. Create a love bug to take home. £14. Pre-booking required. Drop in Craft Table 1pm-1.45pm or 2pm-2.45pm. Hands-on art for ages 3+ with an adult. Dress for mess! £3. No booking needed. Family Event: Mardi Gras Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30am-1pm. Carnival celebrations, making masks, armbands and a simple musical instrument. Child £4, adult £1. Pre-book online. The Brick People Denbies See 12 Feb. Explore Learning Workshop Lightwater Library 2.15pm-3.15pm. A grammar and punctuation workshop for ages 8-11. Free, but book by emailing woking@ explorelearning.co.uk. Puppet Workshop with Mark Goldthorp, G Live Guildford 10am. Work with leading West End actor, puppeteer and teacher Mark Goldthorp and his puppets from Avenue Q & The Muppets! For ages 7-11. £45 + transaction fee. Book online. Family Fun Day Guildford Cathedral 10am or 11am. Enjoy love-themed craft activities within the cathedral. Free, but please pre-book online. For primary aged children with an adult. Family Day, Watts Gallery Artists’ Village Compton 10.30am-4pm. Have a go with painting, pottery, poetry and sketching. Aimed at under 12s, but everyone welcome. Child £8, accompanying adults needs to pay admission. Book online.
The Art of Printmaking The Lightbox Woking 1.30-3pm. For ages 5-10. Child £12, adult free. Book online. Wild About Britain Cranleigh Arts Centre 10am. Meet an array of British creatures, including a tawny owl, kestrel, hedgehog, common toad and smooth snake, with handling opportunities available. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. £8. Book online. Junior Keeper for a Day Merrist Wood Worplesdon See listing on 20 Jan.
TUES 13 - THUR 15 FEB Dragons and Unicorns Surrey History Centre 130 Goldsworth Road, Woking, GU21 6ND Free drop-in family activities from 9.30am-5pm. Dragon and unicorn crafts for ages 2-10 with an adult. Free parking onsite, via Kingsway Road. Buggy friendly and baby change facilities available. Donations welcome.
WED 14 FEBRUARY Dance in a Day Princes Hall Aldershot 10am-4pm. For ages 6-10. £21. Book online. Work on a number of short choreographed pieces that will be performed to parents at the end of the day. Model Mayhem Aldershot Military Museum 20 minute painting sessions at 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm and 3pm. Paint a model soldier to take home and learn how to use them in wargames. For ages 3+ with an adult, dress for mess! Painting sessions £3 + museum entry. Pre-booking advised. Junior Keeper for a Day Merrist Wood Worplesdon See listing on 21 Jan. Crafty Kids: Half Term Museum of Farnham Spring and Valentine themed drop-in crafts for ages 3-7 with an adult. £3.50 per child. Drop-in anytime from 10am-12pm. Play in a Day - Friends & Enemies Farnham Maltings 10am-4pm for ages 8-12. A fun day putting together a show. £35. Book online.
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Little Trotters Pony Parties Magical pony parties for children aged 2 1 2 - 10 years old in Chobham, Woking Grooming, plaiting, and saddling up your shetland pony Woodland ride Scavenger hunt Pet the guinea pigs Party room activities Lunch is included
www.littletrottersponyparties.co.uk Come and enjoy our soft play and outdoor playgrounds with all the family Guildford and Farnham Various Sundays 10am to 2pm
FREE OF CHARGE
thehub@disability-challengers.org 01483 961962
Meet our garden’s up-and-coming stars this winter. THE G R E AT E ST S H OW IN EARTH L I V E AT W I S L E Y
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Families Surrey West 15
What’s On Diary Guildford Spectrum Guildford Spectrum offers a wide range of activities, including tenpin bowling, ice skating and four swimming pools. In the pools, you can show off your skills on the diving boards, race down the waterslides or test your stamina during a lane swimming session. Everyone can enjoy the indoor ice rink all year round, perfect for experienced skaters or beginners with the help of skating aids. Challenge your friends and family to a game of bowling and show off your strike celebration! There’s also exciting soft play, ‘Specky’s Pirate Ship’ for little ones to explore. All activities can be booked online.
Farm Discovery Week at Godstone Farm Unearth the wonder of agriculture at Farm Discovery Week from 10-18 February! Join Godstone Farm for an adventure into the secret life of farming, where kids can engage in exciting activities that blend education with fun. Test your farm knowledge with “Whose poo is that?” a playful game that’s as educational as it is entertaining. Explore that a world of tactile wonders "Who makes noise? at the Discovery Cart, where curious hands What’s that called? Whose poo is that?” can touch and feel artifacts that reveal the rich history ofones farming. Plus, don’t miss the Your little have all the questions, now it’schance totoimmerse yourself in traditional farming time find the answers! Learn about the secret life of activities, creating memories a farming and discover the facts this halfthat term,last no porkies! lifetime. Embrace the charm at Farm Discovery Week. www.godstonefarm.co.uk.
Discover Plants before Time at RHS Garden Wisley From 3 February to 10 March, step inside the Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley and be transported back millions of years with the new Houseplant Takeover – Plants Before Time exhibition. Pick up a trail booklet and travel through time to find out fun facts about these incredible plants; listen carefully; and keep a look out for weird and wonderful fossils, footprints and creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. The Glasshouse is open Monday to Friday: 10am3.45pm (last entry 3.15pm), Saturday and Sunday 9.30am-3.45pm (last entry 3.15pm). Normal garden admission applies.
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Please check event details with organiser and confirm if booking is needed WED 14 FEB CONT.
Free Family Drop-in Big Art Town, The Lightbox Woking Drop in anytime from 1.30-4pm. Suggested donation £5.
Secret Agent Training Guildford Museum 12pm-1pm or 2pm-3pm. For ages 6+ with an adult. Learn how to write with invisible ink and send secret messages, make a false ID card and test your observation skills. Inspired by the museum exhibition about the Special Operations Executive in World War II. £2 suggested donation per child. Booking needed via www.guildford.gov.uk/ whatsonatguildfordmuseum
Penguin Craft Farnham Library 2.30-3.30pm. For ages 4+. Make some penguin friends for Pebbles the Library Penguin! £2. Sign up at the library or email farnham. library@surreycc.gov.uk.
Family Event: Early Birds Haslemere Educational Museum 9-10am. Special opening for families with children who have an Autism Spectrum Condition to enjoy the Museum free from the hustle and bustle of the general public. Pre-book online. Donations appreciated.
Musical Theatre Workshop Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford 10am-12.30pm for ages 5-7 and 1.30-4pm for ages 8-11. Dabble in a bit of dance and sing-along fun plus musical theatre themed games and activities. £25 per workshop. Book online.
Creative Make-Up Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford For 7-11s. Explore the colourful art of makeup and find out more about body art techniques and the skills needed to create a character for the stage. £40. 10am-3pm. Book online.
Creative Make-Up Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Budding Artists with Jo Sharpe, G Live Guildford 10am. For 7-11s. Become an artist for the day. £40 + transaction fee. Book online. West End Centre Aldershot Dance in a Day 10.30am-3.30pm. For ages 8+. £30. Pre-booking required. Family Art Workshop 1pm-3pm. £14. For ages 3+ with an adult. Pre-booking required. Find it, Play it 1pm-3pm. A unique auditory adventure in this fun and vibrant sound-making workshop. £14. For ages 8+. Pre-booking required. Valentine Ladybird Cupcake Decorating Farnham Maltings 10.30am-11.45am, for ages 6-11. £15, book online.
The Brick People Denbies Wine Estate See listing on 12 Feb.
THURS 15 FEBRUARY
Musical Theatre Masterclass, G Live Guildford 10am or 1pm. For ages 7-11. Discover the joys of the West End and immerse yourself in the magic of musicals. £20 + transaction fee. Book online. Happy Hippos Haslemere Educational Museum For ages 5-11. 10.30am12pm. On this World Hippo Day, learn about these large African animals and make some hippo related crafts. Child £7 (if an adult would like to accompany a child the adult cost is £2). Pre-book online. Crafty Kids: Half Term Museum of Farnham See listing on 14 Feb. Pop-up Scenes Workshop The Lightbox Woking 1.30-3pm. For ages 11-16. Learn basic pop-up mechanisms and how to develop them into more complex designs. Book online. Model Mayhem Aldershot Military Museum 20 minute painting sessions at 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm and 3pm. Paint a model soldier to take home and learn how to use them in wargames. For ages 3+ with an adult, dress for mess! Painting sessions £3 + museum entry. Pre-booking advised.
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What’s On Diary THURS 15 FEB CONT.
SAT 24 FEBRUARY
Muddy Fingers Junior Gardening Club Aldershot Military Museum 10.30am-2.30pm, drop-in to help prepare the vegetable patch and plant some strawberry plants. Included in admission. For ages 3+ with an adult, no booking needed.
Georgian Living History Day, Museum of Farnham 10.30am-3.30pm. Free. Nelson’s navy, AKA historical re-enactors Deed of Arms, are setting up camp in the museum. Try sword training and learn about the challenges of eating at sea during the Georgian period. For ages 3+.
Open Build and Display by The Brick People Cranleigh Arts Centre 2 hour sessions at 10am, 12pm, 2pm and 4pm. Build with thousands of bricks, surrounded by official LEGO creations. £6 (5yrs and under free). Under 16s must be with a paying adult. Book online.
Junior Keeper for a Day Merrist Wood See 20 Jan.
SUN 25 FEBRUARY All Aboard Club The Lightbox See 28 Jan. Junior Keeper for a Day Merrist Wood See 21 Jan.
FRIDAY 16 FEBRUARY
FRI 1 MARCH
Kids’ Craft - Beautiful Birds, Cranleigh Arts Centre 10am. Create an exotic bird using a combination of drawing and collage. For ages 3+. £8. Book online.
Let’s Get Creative St Catherine’s Prep School Bramley 9.30-10.30am. For ages 2-4 with an adult. Nurture your child’s creative mind in this arts and crafts session. Be prepared to get messy! Free but booking is essential at www.stcatherines.info/prepschool/baby-cats
Lego Challenge, Haslemere Educational Museum 10.30am-12pm. For 5-11s. £7. Pre-book online. Explore Learning Workshop Lightwater Library 11am-12pm. A grammar and punctuation workshop for ages 5-7. Free, but book by emailing woking@ explorelearning.co.uk. Artbox Workshop Farnham Maltings 10am-2pm for ages 8-16. £65, book online. Watts Tots - Tiles See listing on 2 Feb.
SAT 17 FEBRUARY Family Day, Watts Gallery Artists’ Village See 13 Feb. Animal Encounters Tour Merrist Wood See 13 Jan.
SAT 2 MARCH Sing-A-Long-A Matilda The Musical, G Live Guildford 1pm. £19, under 16s £16 + transaction fee. Book online.
SUN 3 MARCH The Make Space, Watts Gallery - Artists’ Village Compton 10.30-11.30am, 1-2pm or 3-4pm. Use wire and tissue paper to create a sculpture of a colourful springtime insect. Child £5, accompanying adult needs to pay admission. Most suited to 5yrs+. Book online.
Baby Friendly Cinema Club - Bridget Jones’s Baby G Live Guildford Informal screening for parents/carers with babies 0-12 months. Under 12 months go free. Book online.
Farm Open Day Merrist Wood College Worplesdon 10am-12pm. Meet all the farm animals. If you are, or suspect you are pregnant, you must not enter the lambing unit. Age 4+ £6.50 (+ booking fee, includes a bag of food). Under 3s free. Pre-book online, no tickets on the gate.
FRI 23 FEBRUARY
SAT 9 MARCH
THURS 22 FEBRUARY
Bear Shadow, Haslemere Educational Museum 1.30-2.30pm. For under 5s with an adult. Listen to a story and make a shadow puppet. Child £2.50, adult £1.50. Pre-book online. Mini Painters, The Lightbox Woking See listing on 19 Jan.
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Preschool Adventures with Alice Coworth Flexlands School Chobham Fun, free event for all families with children aged 2.5-5 years. Booking essential at: www.coworthflexlands. co.uk/admissions/preschooladventures-with-alice
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Brookwood Primary GU24 0HF Sythwood Primary GU21 3AX 12-16 FEBRUARY 2024 nssport.co.uk
@NSSportWoking
@NextStepSport
"Who makes that noise? What’s that called? Whose poo is that?” Your little ones have all the questions, now it’s time to find the answers! Learn about the secret life of farming and discover the facts this half term, no porkies!
Families Surrey West 17
What’s On
Please book in advance for all theatre and holiday camps
Children’s theatre YVONNE ARNAUD THEATRE Guildford Dinosaur Adventure Live: Trouble on Volcano Island Thurs 15 Feb 2pm & 4.30pm. An amazing, immersive and interactive show with lots of dinosaurs. Free photo opportunity and meet the dinos after the show! £18, concessions £13. In the Mill Studio: Can Bears Ski? Sat 27 Jan 11am, 2pm & 4pm. Based on the book by Raymond Antrobus with stunning illustrations, puppetry & music. All performances will be in spoken English and British Sign Language. £10. Claytime Fri 16 Feb 11am & 2pm. For ages 3-6. A play with clay, where the audience are invited to participate. £15, child £12. Short Stories, Tall Tales: Adventures of an Ugly Duckling Wed 28 Feb 11.30am & 1.30pm. A new adaptation for storytelling with interactive and sensory role-play for 0-4s. Adult + child £10.50, extra ticket £7. CAMBERLEY THEATRE Alice in Wonderland Mon 12 Feb 2pm. This classic story is brought to life in a show packed with comedy, music, audience interaction, and fun for the whole family. £18, Under 16 £16, Family of 4 (2A+2C) £62. The Amazing Bubble Man Wed 14 Feb 2pm. Louis Pearl explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and spellbinding bubble tricks. £16.
Yvonne Arnaud Theatre
G LIVE Guildford Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out Wed 24 & Thurs 25 Jan 10am, 1pm & 4pm. Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles. From £19 + transaction fee.
PRINCES HALL Aldershot Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book Tue 13 - Wed 14 Feb. Relaxed performance 14 Feb 1.30pm. Suitable for ages 3-8, with puppetry and enchanting songs.
FARNHAM MALTINGS Kids’ Symphonic Sunday Sun 21 Jan, Sun 3 March 10am. For pre-school and primary aged children and their families. Hear professional musicians give an introduction to the instruments of the orchestra. Megson Family Folk Show Sat 10 Feb 11.30am. For ages 0-8. £8, family (of 4) £28. Featuring children’s folk songs old and new. Luna Loves Library Day Mon 12 Feb 11.30am & 2.30pm. A musical for ages 5+. £8, family (of 4) £28. Four Seasons Sun 3 March 1.30pm & 4pm. For ages 3-7. Featuring puppetry, physical theatre and clowning fun.
WEST END CENTRE Aldershot Children’s Concert: Max’s Garden Adventure Wed 14 Feb 11am-11.45am. Max’s story is told both by the narrator and with music from 5Ts Brass Quintet. £5. For ages 3+.
NEW VICTORIA THEATRE Woking Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out Sat 24 Feb & Sun 25 Feb 10am, 1pm & 4pm. Join Peppa, and her family and friends as they go to the zoo and the beach. From £13 + transaction fee.
18 Families Surrey West
CR ANLEIGH ARTS CENTRE The Bubble Show Mon 12 Feb 11am & 2pm. Presented by The Highland Joker. For ages 3+. DORKING HALLS Jurassic Earth Sat 3 Feb 12pm or 3pm. With roaming, state-ofthe-art animatronic life-like Dinosaurs in an interactive story-telling show. £24. The Amazing Bubble Man Tues 13 Feb 2pm. A show exploring the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. £17.50. The Tiger Who Came To Tea Tues 5 & Wed 6 March. Packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos.
HASLEMERE HALL Once Upon a Time Fri 12 - Sun 14 Jan and Fri 19 - Sat 20 Jan. A magical family pantomime. HEAD2HEAD SENSORY THEATRE Amazing Tales Princes Hall, Aldershot Fri 16 Feb 11.45am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm. A sensory introduction to Grimms’ Fairy Tales. Using chants, rhymes, repetition and song the storyteller will draw you into an enchanting fairy tale world using Makaton signing and fun sensory props. Aimed at ages 2-12. £5 per child (admits one accompanying adult free). Book at h2hsensorytheatre.com/ product/amazing-talessensory-storytelling
ELECTRIC THEATRE Guildford Grooving with Pirates Sun 25 Feb 11am & 2pm. An animated and live-action mystical, magical, nautical, musical adventure which follows three pirate friends on a dangerous mission to find treasure! For ages 3-7. Morgan & West’s Massive Magic Show for Kids and Childish Grown-Ups Sat 9 March 2pm. 5+. Magic, mischief and mayhem!
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What’s On Markets 4 Parents
The next sales will take place on Saturday 3rd February and Saturday 20th April from 10am-12pm at Normandy Village Hall, Glaziers Lane, Guildford, GU3 2DT. Lots of stalls bursting with top quality like new baby and children’s items from birth to 8 years. £2 entry, kids are free. Come and grab a bargain or book a stall and be a seller. Keep 100% profit on the day. For more information or to book a stall visit bookwhen.com/ markets4parents or email info@markets4parents.com @markets4parents
February half term holiday camps Swim Safe School February Half Term Intensive Course Runs at Cranleigh Golf & Country Club from Mon 12 - Fri 16 February. All ages and abilities welcome. Small group (maximum of 3) and private lessons available. For more information or to book on contact Jenn at swimsafeschool@btinternet. com
Next Step Holiday Activities
Next Step Holiday Activities is the perfect place for your children to have fun! They provide active, affordable, and exciting childcare during the holidays for children aged 4-11. Their two programmes, NS Stars and NS Strikers, will see your child enjoy their time away from school. Their unique programmes, led by a dedicated, enthusiastic, and highly qualified team, ensure your child can maintain their development and learning through play in a safe and appropriate environment. They are running Holiday Activities at Brookwood Primary School (GU24 0HF) and Sythwood Primary School (GU21 3AX) from 12-16 February from 8am-6pm. For further information and bookings please visit www.nssport.co.uk or email enquiries@nssport.co.uk
Man In The Moon
The Man In The Moon’s drama day camps at Camelsdale School, Haslemere, are an ideal solution for what to do during the school holidays. These unique day camps are creative, inclusive, exciting and reassuringly affordable. The daily workshops include improvisation, role-play, movement, drama games and crafts that fuel the imagination. Numbers are kept low to make sure there’s individual attention from their experienced crew members. For more details, check out themaninthemoon.co.uk.
Xtreme Activate Holiday Day Camp
Pitch Pals
Pitch Pals are running more fantastic football camps at Broadwater School, Godalming in February half term. All days run 9am-3.30pm (late pick-up and half-days available). Your child can expect a camp full of fun games, activities and tournaments suitable for all. Expert coaching from FA-qualified Coaches in a safe, fun and inclusive environment. Book at https://pitch-pals.classforkids.io
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OFSTED registered fun-filled holiday camp that runs at Guildford Spectrum entertaining and challenging children aged 5-8 and 9-12. The Camp runs every school holiday from 8.30am-6pm. Children will take part in activities such as ice skating, bowling, swimming (everyday for 9 years + and on certain days for ages 5-8), track time (weather permitting) and arts and crafts. Bookings can be made in person at Customer Services (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and Sat 9am-1pm) or by calling 01483 443322.
Families Surrey West 19