14 Noah’s story: a home education journey EARLY YEARS
15 Your child's speech and language development
16 Raising a confident child
18-19 Outdoor fun and learning this spring
20-21
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From the editors...
One of our favourite times of the year is here... spring! Full of hope and long days ahead. In our March/April issue we focus on the Easter holidays, making sure you have plenty of family days to look forward to. Check out our 'Easter holiday fun’ article on pages 20-21 plus our 'What’s On' pages on 22-23 which should give you lots of ideas!
In this issue we include an ‘Open Days’ update on page 8, so you can check out which schools you can visit in advance of September. We have a number of education articles for you too, including ‘ChatGPT and your child’ on page 6, ‘How are children assessed at school?’ on page 9, plus read about ‘Noah’s story: a home education journey’ on page 14. We are also fortunate to get to interview Will Way, who is head of prep at ‘The Marist School’ on page 13 and who gives us some insight into the ethos of the school and how to prepare for secondary school.
I know we’ll also be checking out the parenting article ‘Cook Once, eat twice’ on page 17 - sounds like a great way to save a bit of precious time.
We hope you enjoy the read!
Editors: Anna Collins and Rachel Bailey 07867 514138 (Rach) editor@familiestveast.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk
Yvonne Thomas - Specialist face-to-face teaching literacy and muscle memory touch-typing Cert Ed, SpLd Level 5 - Literacy/Numeracy ADD/ADHD Coach
Next issue: May/June 2025
Book by: 24 March
Tel: 07867 514138 (Rach)
Circulation: 19,000
Cover image: depositphotos.com
WEEKLY AND HOLIDAY CLASSES FOR CHILDREN TO ADULTS
• Multi-sensory approach using Orton-Gillingham structured literacy, muscle memory touch-typing
• Expertise in learning differences including emotional and confidence support
• Developing fast touch-typing as a life skill and natural way of working
• Supports fluency in school Subject KS / GCSE vocabulary
NORTH stagecoach.co.uk/bracknellnorth 07368 849169
WYCOMBE stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe 07539 753718
MAIDENHEAD stagecoach.co.uk/maidenhead 01628 281128 WINDSOR AND LANGLEY stagecoach.co.uk/windsor 01932 988086
Greenhouse not hothouse: the essential balance for success
Sarah Rollings, Headmistress at Heathfield, Ascot, discusses the importance of balance, opportunity and student choice.
Greenhouse or hothouse?
It’s a common debate - which yields the best outcomes? At Heathfield we believe that by providing the right balance of support, structure and freedom, every child can thrive and develop their own unique talents and abilities. We focus on each student’s long-term development, with an emphasis on well-being, supporting academic curiosity and exploration and the skills needed for success in life.
Balance and opportunity are key. A carefully developed curriculum and co-curricular offer provides student choice across a wide range of subjects and activities. The core subjects – for example, maths, science and languages - were traditionally viewed as superior in merit compared to more creative ones.
However, in today’s rapidly changing world, we are educating our young people for roles that don’t necessarily exist yet. Thinking ‘outside the box’, making connections, designing innovative solutions and problem-solving as well as soft skills such as communication and adaptability are crucial for success, as is an individual’s attitude. Attitude determines how they react to adversity, their ability to grow and learn, overcome challenges and create bonds with others.
Heathfield’s greenhouse approach provides an enriching environment, ensuring its students are prepared not just for exams, but for a fulfilling and successful future. www.heathfieldschool.net
Library service ‘building’ on LEGO club success
FREE LEGO clubs for children at Royal Borough libraries have expanded, thanks to Legoland Windsor Resort donating a large amount of LEGO bricks enabling more volunteer-led groups to be set up in the borough.
FREE clubs will now run in the libraries at Ascot, Cox Green and Windsor in addition to the existing Dedworth club.
Councillor Jack Douglas, Cabinet Member for Communities and Leisure, said: “I’d like to thank Legoland Windsor Resort for this generous donation. FREE local clubs in the community are a very popular way to help make sure our children have a good start in life.”
Ramesh Ganeson, Vice President, Legoland Windsor Resort, said: “Investment in children’s learning is an integral part of our activities. I am delighted our organisation is continuing to fund library volunteering sessions”
Visit www.rbwm.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/libraries/libraryclubs to find out more.
Leighton Park welcomes new Head from September
Leighton Park School is delighted to announce the appointment of Luke Walters as Head from 1 September 2025.
This is an exceptional appointment, and Luke comes to the school with a remarkable track record of success from Christ’s Hospital, where he is currently Deputy Head.
Luke said: "I could not be happier to be joining Leighton Park School as Head. Leighton Park is an exceptional community of talented individuals, inspired to imagine a better world. As I step into the role of Head, with such a superb foundation to build upon, I am committed to fostering an environment where kindness, compassion, and a holistic approach to learning are as vital as academic excellence. By nurturing both the hearts and minds of our students, we will ensure they not only succeed in their studies but also grow into thoughtful, resilient individuals, ready to make a positive impact on the world.”
www.leightonpark.com
Challenge your brain at The Paradox Museum
We were lucky to visit this fabulous museum where nothing makes sense, yet everything feels real! The Paradox Museum is based in Knightsbridge; we visited as part of a family school holiday trip to London. It was a real winner with our children as there was plenty of curiosity, creativity, interaction, challenges, learning and movement to be done!
Have a go at Zero Gravity, where you get to see yourself floating weightlessly, be the ultimate illusionist in the Camouflage Room, baffle your family and friends with a photo in the Reversed Room and visit the Paradox Tunnel, where walking straight feels impossible! There are 90 minutes of brain-challenging stations to be enjoyed by all the family from toddlers upwards.
Be prepared to come out with lots of mind-boggling photos, plus there are QR codes to scan at each station which explain how the paradoxes work.
www.paradoxmuseumlondon.com
On set coaching ‘The Secret Of Marrowbone’
Discover the Magic of Drama at The Acting Studio
Victoria Donovan, founder of The Acting Studio, believes that every child has a story to tell. As such, her classes are designed to build confidence, spark creativity, and inspire children to embrace their unique voice. For her, drama classes aren’t just about acting - whether a child is a budding performer or just looking for a way to express themselves, her classes are tailored to all levels.
Students develop key life skills that will serve them throughout their lives: public speaking, confidence, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving, A professional actor and drama coach with over 30 years’ experience, Victoria has had the privilege of working with many world class actors and considers it an honour to pass on her knowledge. She is passionate about the arts and encourages every student to shine in their own way. Through the Acting Studio’s affiliation with the AK agency, many students have had opportunities to work on a professional film set with some citing “It was a dream come true and it was so exciting to be on a real film set”.
Classes run Tue-Thurs at Braywick Nature Centre or Cookham Dean Hall.
For more information or to book a FREE taster session, call 07973 830591 or visit www.TheActingStudio.co.uk
Ticket Giveaway to The Local Food & Chilli Festival at Windsor View Lakes
There's something for everyone at The Local Food & Chilli Festival this year from Chilli Eating competitions to LIVE Music, Market Stalls, Demo Tent and lots of FREE activities, including Live Children’s Entertainment, Bubble Zone, Cheese & Wine Tasting and so much more!
The events aim to bring the whole community together and provide fun for the whole family. This local event will be held at Windsor View Lakes in Datchet, SL3 9HX from 11am-9pm on the Saturday 28 June and 11am-6pm on Sunday 29 June. What's more is we’re giving away 5 pairs of WEEKEND Passes to the The Local Food & Chilli Festival for these dates. The pass allows 2 adults (Under 15s go FREE) entry to either or both days.
Email us at editor@familiestveast.co.uk and we will enter you into the draw for the giveway! The deadline is 30 April 2025. www.TheLocalFoodFestival.com
Spotlight on St Bernard’s Preparatory School -Inspiring Curious Minds
At St Bernard’s Prep, we welcome children as young as 2½ into our nurturing and stimulating environment. Bright, open-plan classrooms and outdoor learning areas provide the perfect setting for exploration, creativity and growth.
Learning at St Bernard’s Prep is a blend of child-initiated play and engaging, teacher-led activities. With high staffing ratios, we ensure each child receives personalised support tailored to their individual needs. Our youngest learners benefit from specialist teachers in French, Music and PE, enriching their experiences from the very start.
Additionally, regular buddy activities with older pupils foster a strong sense of community and confidence. With specialist teaching, high staff-to-child ratios, and a focus on holistic development, our youngest learners gain the skills they need to thrive.
As children progress, they build on their achievements with no limits to their learning. We challenge and inspire every student through high expectations, stretch opportunities and a rich curriculum. Dedicated study skills sessions further equip them with the tools they need for success. By teaching to the top, we prepare our students exceptionally well for future examinations and the next stage of their education.
We strengthen our teaching with additional programmes - for example, we have always been very proud of our mathematical achievements and we are now an NRich Problem Solving School which will help our children to develop their mathematical thinking.
As a result of the dedication of our teachers and the efforts of our pupils, each year our children achieve outstanding results in SATs and 11+ exams, earning places at top grammar and independent schools.
We also know that wellbeing is just as important as academic progress—one cannot happen without the other. Our children are confident and courteous, resilient and respectful and joyfully happy. They thrive within a community that genuinely cares for and supports one another. They enjoy a wide variety of activities beyond academics - including sports clubs, music, drama, and programs like Junior Dukes, which teaches them valuable life skills while providing a safe environment to explore, grow, and learn from their mistakes.
We invite you to experience our vibrant school community first hand at our next Open Day on Saturday 8 March, where our children will guide you on a tour. Alternatively, you can book a personal tour on any weekday. Book online www.stbernardsprep.org email admissions@ stbernardsprep.org, or call 01753 521 821.
ChatGPT and your child
By Erin Miller
An increasing area of concern for both schools and parents is how children are incorporating AI into their learning, particularly when they are learning independently.
While AI offers tremendous opportunities to enhance learning, it is also essential to be aware of the potential negative impacts that AI may have. This article explores some of the risks of children using AI in their learning but also provides some guidance for when and how children can use AI in a productive and useful way.
As a teacher, I now frequently use AI tools to assist me in my lesson planning and they have been hugely beneficial in saving my time.
The reason why I am confident in using AI tools is because when AI produces a response, I am able to fact-check it myself. After over ten years of teaching, it is clear to me when AI has produced erroneous information or not responded to my prompt with the information I’m looking for.
However, children, especially younger children, will not have developed this critical faculty as they do not yet have subject expertise. Therefore, children blindly relying on information produced by AI is not conducive to learning.
The main lesson that I impart to my students surrounding the use of AI is: AI cannot do your thinking for you.
Children at all ages need to understand that AI provides a great platform for researching factual information but using AI to come
Prompts and context
Here are a few tips to share with your child if they are using AI tools in their independent learning:
Use precise prompts. AI tools are only as good as the prompts they ar given. The more precise the prompt, the more accurate the response.
For example, if your child is researching the Tudors, instead of using the prompt ‘tell me about the Tudors,’ suggest they are more specific and use a prompt such as ‘give autobiographical details about Henry VIII’. If your child is researching a wide area, discuss prompts they can use and design them together before beginning to use the AI tool.
Provide context. If AI tools are not providing the desired response, try adding more context. For example, if your child is researching the Romans, which is a huge area of history, they should include places and dates to get more specific information e.g. ‘Tell me about the Roman invasion of Britain in AD43.’ This may sound obvious but children will often simply search ‘Roman Britain’ or similar.
up with ideas in creative tasks puts a stop to thinking.
The same applies to tasks where children are being asked to make interpretations or give their opinions on something. There is no viable shortcut for thinking, as the process of deep thought is invaluable in forming neural pathways, which is how children remember information.
AI tools are a part of our present and future and children should engage with them, where appropriate. But schools and parents should be aligned in how to introduce children to AI and help them engage with it safely and responsibly.
Your child’s school may have an AI policy in place, which is worth reviewing if you have any concerns. As this technology continues to evolve, schools are likely to be open to hearing your thoughts and feedback on their AI policies and usage. So don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s school to continue this important conversation!
Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
Further guidance for AI use
If your child is using AI tools in their independent learning, try the following to help them to use AI effectively and responsibly:
Encourage your child to go into the sources referenced by the AI and read the full source to check that the information given by the AI tool is accurate.
Start conversations about plagiarism early. Unfortunately, AI has provided a way for children to plagiarise and disguise this plagiarisation. AI is able to produce whole essays or examples of creative writing and these can be put through ‘humanising’ tools, which give the essays a more human voice, making plagiarism harder to detect. Conversations at home about plagiarism will go a long way in helping your child understand the seriousness of academic dishonesty and the harm it will do their own learning in the long term.
Discuss with your child whether AI will help them in their learning task. AI is unlikely to help genuine learning in creative tasks that require imagination but is a fantastic tool for factual research.
Schools’ Open Days
Spring 2025
Please call the school to check the Open Day or Evening is still going ahead.
ACS Egham International School
London Road, Egham, Surrey TW20 0HS
Saturday 29 March (Whole School)
9.30am-12.00 noon
To book a visit, contact below: 01784 430 611 www.acs-schools.com/egham/ admissions/open-days
We are an Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding ’ nursery providing high quality day care for children from three months to five years. Set within bright, modern Windsor Leisure Centre, our setting includes a large toddler room, pre-school room, a new snuggly baby room, and spacious outdoor garden.
115 St Leonard’s Road, Windsor SL4 3DF Virtual Open Morning every term Bespoke in-person tours every week
Little People Media, 29 Furrow Way, Maidenhead SL6 3 NY
To book a visit, contact below: registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk 01753 862610 www.uptonhouse.org.uk/admissions/ virtual-open-mornings
Thames Valley East
Open 51 weeks a year – Accepts 30 hours funding – Highly trained team
Come and look around today: Call: 01753 855543 or email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk
How are children assessed at school?
By Zuzu Jordan
As parents, we often wonder how well our children are progressing at school. In which areas do they excel or need additional support? Feedback on their performance is crucial to understanding their learning journey and providing the encouragement they need.
Assessments play an essential role in education, acting as tools to shape and refine the learning experience. Through various assessment methods, teachers can identify each pupil’s strengths and weaknesses, then tailor their lessons to address individual and group needs. These evaluations help teachers set specific learning targets and organise classroom groups effectively to ensure all pupils thrive.
One commonly used method is formative assessment, which includes tests, quizzes and exams. These timed activities provide valuable diagnostic insights into a pupil’s understanding, offering immediate feedback and standardised benchmarks. Results from weekly or half-termly tests can also serve as quick indicators of progress. However, they can sometimes create anxiety for pupils and parents due to their timed nature.
Teachers also assess pupils in numerous other ways, often on a daily basis, while children are encouraged to engage in selfassessment and peer assessment. This involves reflecting on their own work or evaluating their classmates’ efforts. For example, using a writing success criteria checklist, pupils can identify their achievements and where they need to improve.
Not all assessments involve written tasks or time limits. Creative methods, such as presentations and group activities, allow children to demonstrate their understanding in diverse
Statutory tests
The government requires schools to conduct several statutory assessments to gather nationwide data.
All children take a Baseline Assessment in Reception, a short evaluation of early literacy, communication, language and mathematical skills. In Year 1, pupils complete a Phonics Screening Test, with the option of reassessment in Year 2 if needed. National curriculum ‘SATs’ are conducted in Year 2 and Year 6, including a reading paper, three maths papers and a spelling, punctuation and grammar paper.
In Year 4, pupils undergo a multiplication tables check, typically administered in June.
Schools must adhere to strict guidelines when administering these assessments and any necessary adjustments, such as enlarged text or additional time, must be requested through formal channels in advance. Tests are usually conducted in normal classroom settings, with allowances for adults to read questions on certain papers or act as scribes in specific circumstances.
Parents can find detailed guidance about these assessments on the government website at www.bit.ly/ncassessments
and engaging ways. Teachers and support staff also assess informally by asking questions during lessons, observing classroom interactions and marking pupils’ work.
With advances in technology, educators now use innovative tools to make assessments more interactive and informative. Real-time feedback from digital quizzes or classroom apps enables teachers to adjust lessons instantly. For example, if a majority of pupils struggle with a concept, teachers can modify their approach immediately to address misunderstandings.
Ultimately, the goal of assessments is to support learning, not create stress. If your child struggles with timed assessments, practising under timed conditions, improving time management and familiarising them with question types can help. By working together, parents and teachers can ensure that assessments become stepping stones for growth rather than barriers to success.
Zuzu is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for 18 years and is director of Arnett International. For free resources and tips, find her on Instagram edumate_uk
Target setting
After any assessment, teachers have the opportunity to set specific targets for each pupil. Many schools opt to use SMART targets. SMART is an acronym and stands for: S - Specific, M - Measurable, A - Achievable, R - Relevant, T –Time-bound.
Clear SMART targets can accelerate learning more effectively than vague or unclear objectives. They not only guide future interventions and provide support but also motivate children, fostering a sense of responsibility for their own learning.
Targets don’t have to be purely academic; they can also focus on behaviour, personal growth, social skills or emotional development. For instance, a behavioural target might involve improving focus during lessons, while a social target could address building positive relationships with peers.
If a child struggles to meet their target, it may need to be broken down into smaller, more manageable steps. Getting the balance right is essential, as appropriate targets can significantly boost a child’s confidence and self-esteem, ensuring they feel empowered to succeed.
Improving your child’s metacognition
By Usha Patel
In all the stages of learning, we want to encourage curiosity, find out how best a child likes to learn and exploit this to its full potential.
However, what can make the task of learning very difficult, especially for those with neurodivergent conditions such as dyslexia, DCD, ADHD or ASD is that, due to weak executive function skills, children may appear bored easily and be unable to engage for long periods.
In my experience, this stems from many factors; some of which are physical (poor co-ordination), others brain-based (cognitive).
The result is that such children look for activities which deliver instant gratification and they are either not entertained for long or hyper-focused and can’t change pace or activity. This pattern, in turn, creates a vicious cycle of events leading to the point where everything is boring unless it is their choice of activity, usually procedural in nature.
This limits their potential to stretch their way of thinking and how they process their own thoughts – metacognition. Metacognition is ‘thinking about how you think’ and this selfanalysis is the basis of self-improvement.
So how do you help a child improve their way of thinking and engage in developing curiosity?
The first thing is to stop talking and start asking more questions or allow silence to give them space to work it out for themselves. Parents who provide all the answers all the time are not letting their children think for themselves. We want to place the responsibility squarely in their hands.
Whenever they can’t find the butter in the fridge, behind the bowl of yesterday’s evening meal, instead of moving things in the refrigerator, the call comes out: ‘I can’t find the butter!’ This needs to change, so YOU need to change. Don’t do things for them or provide answers until they have tried to work it out for themselves.
The beauty of physical ‘survival’ based activities
When survival is a factor, the brain switches on. Any activity which affects balance is something we have to think about
Building executive function
Activities like climbing walls or solving Sudoku-type puzzles can greatly enhance children’s cognitive and executive functioning abilities.
Climbing requires critical thinking and focus, as each movement carries real consequences. Meanwhile, puzzles encourage problem-solving, adaptive strategy development and self-reflection. Both activities cater to varying skill levels, making them accessible and effective tools for cognitive growth. They also help children stay in the moment. By integrating these practices, children build stronger executive function, working memory and problem-solving skills, unlocking their potential for future success.
carefully - we cannot do it routinely. This is why climbing walls are my first point of call for building metacognition.
Children using climbing walls (or climbing trees) need to do many things but most of all they need to avoid falling down! Each hand position, each foot position is thought through and has consequences. This is critical thinking at its best.
Afterwards, there is a lot of self-analysis: was I strong enough? How would I do this next time? This is the metacognition we want to nurture.
After a few goes of the same climbing wall, the activity does become procedural but that’s when it’s time to increase the challenge to the next level for a longer duration.
How does the ship get into the bottle?
Puzzles which make you think but don’t burden the working memory are also good for building metacognition. I like to use simple Sudoku puzzles. You don’t need equipment, a unique space or loads of time.
Unlike a physical puzzle, with Sudoku, you can see the steps taken to solve the puzzle and analyse them. You can then use this analysis next time. This helps build on the metacognition of how to solve the puzzle and how you think.
There are many different variations of Sudoku and the level of complexity can range from beginner to rocket scientist level, making them highly adaptable.
Usha Patel is a Neurocognitive Therapist at Raviv Practice London (www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk)
Breaking the cycle
Children with poor executive functioning skills may struggle with concentration, which can hinder their ability to focus and persevere. This often leads to boredom and reliance on familiar, procedural activities that require less effort.
Breaking this cycle involves fostering curiosity and metacognition: thinking critically about how they think and approach problems. Parents can support this by allowing children to solve challenges independently, avoiding the tendency to provide immediate answers. This process nurtures critical thinking, responsibility and resilience, essential for long-term development and adaptability.
The Look Out Discovery
Meet the Head interview with Will May, Head of Prep at The Marist School, Ascot
This issue Families speaks to Mr Will May who is the Head of Prep at The Marist School, Ascot - an independent Catholic day school for girls aged 2–18 (with a co-ed Nursery too). Will lets us know all about the ethos at the school and how children are prepped for senior school.
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I have had the privilege of holding the position of Head of The Marist Prep for nearly two years. In addition to leading my wonderful team, I thoroughly enjoy teaching maths and sport, which allows me to engage with the pupils both in and out of the classroom.
How would you describe the ethos of The Marist School?
The Marist is a deeply values-driven community, founded on the principles of our Catholic faith. I often speak about the three R’s: Respect, Resilience and Responsibility which underpin everything we do.
Kindness is central to our ethos, and we celebrate it daily through our Random Acts of Kindness programme, encouraging pupils to recognise and appreciate the power of small gestures. This makes a profoundly positive impact on individuals and the wider community.
As Head of Prep, what are the most important aspects of preparing children for senior school?
The most important elements are fostering a strong sense of self-belief and confidence in each child as an individual. It’s about ensuring they feel proud of who they are and prepared to embrace the next chapter with enthusiasm.
We nurture a mindset that sees failure not as something to fear but as an opportunity to learn and grow. Ultimately, we aim for our pupils to move up to the Marist Senior School intrinsically motivated to become the best version of themselves.
What are the most rewarding aspects of your work?
For me, it’s about building relationships and supporting others on their journeys, whether that’s a pupil or a member of my teaching team. I find great joy in learning from others and offering guidance, and my role provides opportunities to do this every day.
What are the qualities of a great teacher?
Curiosity, passion and dynamism are essential qualities of a great teacher as well as positive relationships with the children
and parents. These traits inspire both the teacher and their pupils to engage fully in the learning process.
Education has broadly looked the same for many years. What do you see as important factors for change?
With the rapid advancements in technology, it is increasingly important to focus on developing skills such as social and emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and the ability to question, debate, and comprehend complex ideas. These are the areas that will empower pupils to navigate an ever-changing world successfully.
Do you have any top tips for parents when they are considering a school for their child?
• Do your research and visit schools in person.
• Arrange personal tours to see the school in action, rather than relying solely on a polished Open Morning.
• Ask as many questions as possible, including speaking directly with the pupils. It’s vital to get a feel for the school’s community and culture.
• Don’t be swayed by glossy marketing or impressive buildings - it’s the people that truly make a school special.
What is your approach to SEN?
Our approach centres on knowing each child as an individual and being proactive in understanding their needs. This involves reflecting on their work, setting clear and achievable targets, fostering strong communication between teams and conducting thorough observations and interventions.
We create bespoke action plans tailored to support SEN pupils, ensuring every teacher is aware of and actively contributing to their success.
If you would like to visit The Marist School check out our open days listing on page 8, or their admissions page for a list of open events coming up www.themarist.com/admissions/visitus or call 01344 624291.
Noah’s story: a home education journey
In 2023, the Department for Education found there were an estimated 86,200 home educated pupils known to local authorities, a rise from 80,900 less than a year before. Families talks to one of its Editors about the home educating journey her family is taking with her son, Noah.
How old is your son and what led you to start home educating him?
Noah is now 14 years old and has been home educated for a year. We felt we had no choice but to withdraw him from school due to his extreme anxiety and the school’s failure to meet his needs.
What kind of support did you receive from the school when you raised your concerns and where do you think support needed to be better?
Initially, the school allowed Noah a flexible timetable, letting him come in a few minutes late and leave early to avoid the crowd of 1,600 students. They also let him work in the Student Development Centre instead of attending classes where he felt more anxious.
However, this was only a short-term solution that didn’t provide him with any real education. We enquired about flexi-schooling but the school refused to consider this option. Schools are overstretched with the increasing SEN population and lack of funding. We requested a meeting with the SENCO team but the earliest they could meet us was four weeks later.
What concerns did you have about home education?
Deciding to home educate was tough. I felt a lot of guilt, wondering if it was the right choice and whether I could provide Noah with the education he needs to achieve his future goals. I was also worried about the social aspect but he actually talks to his friends more now than he did when he was in school.
What official steps did you need to take?
We sent an official deregistration email to the headteacher, who then notified the Elective Home Education (EHE) team at the local council. We received our first contact from the EHE within a week. We opted to keep everything in writing with the EHE team rather than face to face, so we are now required to provide a yearly written report of what Noah has been learning and his progression.
How did you figure out your approach to home educating? It was trial and error! Noah prefers structure, so he has set subjects on set days but can choose the order in which he completes them. We also have three other children in mainstream education, so we try to fit Noah’s education around their school schedule, leaving evenings and weekends for family and friends.
How did your family and Noah experience the first few weeks of home educating?
Initially the focus was on building Noah’s confidence and allowing him to reset after the trauma of the previous months. We also discovered together that he is a visual and hands-on learner, which suits his dyslexia better than traditional learning methods.
What resources are available for parents who are home educating?
The most valuable resource we found was joining a supportive home education community on Facebook - Home Education for All (HEFA) UK. There’s a wealth of information, from legal aspects to finding what works best for your family. Many areas also have local Home Ed groups and attractions often offer Home Ed sessions similar to school trips.
Which resources have you found the most useful?
We use various resources but a few of our favourites are The £2 Tuition Hub (www.thetwopoundtuitionhub.com), Oak Academy (www.thenational.academy), Continuity Oak (www.continuityoak.org.uk/lessons), SouthWest Science School (www.southwestscienceschool.com), also Absolute Maths (www.home.absolutemathscourse.co.uk).
Equally, learning opportunities are everywhere. We are lucky to have the internet at our fingers, a local library and live in an area where we can investigate nature, historic buildings and museums within half an hour of our doorstep.
Does your son have a set curriculum?
Noah wants to sit his GCSEs, so we follow the national curriculum for those subjects, even though home-educated children are not legally required to take exams.
What have you learned about education through home education?
The biggest lesson is how outdated the traditional education system is. As the saying goes, you can’t fit a square peg into a round hole. Children have different needs and learning styles, yet we are pushing them all through a one-size-fits-all system.
How does your son socialise now that he’s not in school?
He attends the local scouting group and spends time gaming with friends he made while in school.
How is his well-being now?
Noah is much happier and more relaxed. Friends and family have noticed the difference in him, saying it’s like he can breathe now. His sense of humour and cheekiness have really developed and he often has us all laughing.
Do you envisage him going back to mainstream education at any point?
We have left the decision up to Noah. We won’t force him either way. We check in with him regularly and he currently says he doesn’t see himself going back to school in the future.
For advice on the law around home educating, visit www.childlawadvice.org.uk/information-pages/homeeducation
Your child’s speech and language development
By Kate Lewis and Katie Kennedy
Watching your child’s speech develop over time is very exciting but if they don’t meet or hit expected milestones, you may consider it to be a cause for concern. Please don’t panic though! Speech and language skills develop rapidly in the first years of life and every child progresses at their own pace.
These milestones are general guidelines rather than rigid expectations:
12–18 months: By this age, children typically say their first words and may have a vocabulary of five to twenty words. They begin to name familiar objects, imitate sounds and understand simple commands like ‘Give me the ball.’
18–24 months: Vocabulary grows rapidly during this period. Toddlers may have around fifty words by 18 months and combine two words into simple phrases like ‘want cookie’ or ‘go park.’ They understand more than they can say, following directions like ‘put it in the box.’
2–3 years: By age 2, children often use two to three hundred words and start forming three-or four-word sentences. They begin asking questions like ‘What’s that?’ and can be understood by familiar listeners about half to three quarters of the time.
3–4 years: At this age children typically use longer sentences and have a vocabulary of a thousand words or more by age 4. They can tell simple stories, ask ‘why?’ questions and be understood by strangers most of the time.
Boosting speech and language development
There are lots of things you can do to support your child’s speech and language development:
Books, books and more books! Reading books with your child helps them to build vocabulary and learn sentence structure skills, while sparking imagination and creating opportunities to connect. Keep them engaged by using objects and toys as props – learning is way more fun when you bring meaning to words through real-world experiences.
while also letting them know you’re interested in what they have to say, regardless of the form of communication they prefer to use. It might feel strange at first but remember to watch their reactions when they realise you’re joining in with their preferred communication method!
Sing songs and nursery rhymes
Songs and nursery rhymes are repetitive, which helps to build up a child’s understanding of the language used. Children pick up on changes in tone of voice used when we sing which helps to engage them and pique their interest.
Avoid asking questions
For every five things we say to our children, only one of these should be a question. It’s common to ask rhetorical questions during play with our child, even when we’re not expecting them to answer back. Change these questions into comments. Instead of ‘Do you have the car? say ‘You have the car!’
It’s important to remember…
Every child is unique and developing communication should be fun and interactive. Having an awareness of developmental milestones and supporting them with the tips above will stand you in good stead to increase your child’s communication skills.
Kate and Katie are speech and language therapists at Magic Words Therapy which provides a broad range of expert speech and language therapy services for children and adults. Find out more at www.magicwordstherapy.co.uk
Copy your child. By repeating the sounds, words and phrases your child says, you build a stronger connection with them,
Raising a confident child
By Poppy O’Neill
Confidence comes in many forms - from public speaking to asking for help - and what it takes is different for everybody. As parents, there’s a lot we can do to help foster confidence in our children. With small daily habits, they can develop the type of true confidence that they’ll use throughout their lives. Here are my go-to tips for raising confident kids.
Be patient
True confidence takes time and patience to build. When your child is finding something challenging, slow it right down.
Knowing they can take a step back, say ‘no’ or back out entirely allows your child to progress through baby steps. For example, if there’s anxiety around a school trip, explore their options. Is there something that could make the day easier? What would it be like not to go? When a child can sense they have a bit of wriggle room, it takes the pressure off and helps them make braver choices.
Talk about a time you overcame low confidence
Kids don’t always like talking about feelings, let’s face itconversations about mental health can feel heavy and awkward.
Talking about your own experiences takes the pressure off and lets your child see how someone like them conquered a similar problem.
Sharing stories about your own inner world will help your child feel understood and less alone. Even if your experiences are quite different from theirs, emotions like fear and bravery are something we all share.
Look for ways to make it a tiny bit easier
As much as we’d like to be able to solve all our child’s problems, encouraging them to try to problem solve builds resilience and confidence. We don’t need to sit back and watch them struggle though.
Think instead in terms of supporting them to work things out independently and how you can make things less daunting for them. This could be sitting together while they study for a
dreaded exam, checking in to let them know you’re thinking of them or talking through a big decision with them.
Be on their side
When children feel sure that you are always on their team, that you will treat their wins with pride and their losses with gentleness, it becomes easier for them to take leaps of faith towards their challenges.
One of the worst things about trying and failing is feeling alone, with the difficult emotions failure brings. Equally, it can be isolating to excel; winning can bring its own challenges. Being a stalwart supporter of your child shows them they are definitely not alone, whatever happens.
Gently nudge
When the time is right - and you can trust yourself to know when this is - nudge your child towards what is difficult or challenging for them. By the time we become adults, we know from experience that fear can hold us back from some of the best parts of life; but your child hasn’t yet learned this.
Without shaming or rushing, help your child to understand that trying things is often the only way to know for sure. Never force them to do something as this usually backfires. Instead, after building the foundations for confidence together, be the one who shows them they’re ready to fly.
Poppy O’Neill has written several books on mental wellbeing for children and adults, including the bestsellers Don’t Worry, Be Happy and You’re a Star. Her most recent book, Be Confident is published by Vie Books.
We are looking for distirbutors of our magazine for the Maidenhead area. Call 07753 414605 for more details, if you are interested.
Cook once, eat twice
By Sam Milner
As parents who work from home and with hectic family schedules, we take every opportunity to follow the ‘cook once eat twice’ method using our air fryer.
If you have not heard of cooking once and eating twice, the idea is that you double batch a meal, providing enough food for two mealtimes instead of one. It takes a lot of pressure out of meal preparations and if you do this just three times a week, you will soon have a freezer bursting with meals that you can reheat in an air fryer. Then on those nights when you don’t have time to cook at all, you can grab one of your trusted eat twice meals and reheat it from frozen.
If you’re worried that this method will take up too much time, remember the prep time for many cook once, eat twice recipes is often no longer than the prep time for one meal. It’s also worth noting that an air fryer is an independent cooking machine and unlike a pan, you can leave it to do the cooking, freeing you up to attend to other jobs or simply spend time together.
What type of recipes should you be preparing for a cook once, eat twice theme? Anything you would bake in the oven is a good starting point. Or something that would be familiar to you from the ready meals aisle of a supermarket. In other words, the kind of air fryer meals you can freeze in foil containers and then cook in an air fryer in a foil tray, reducing your washing up when you come back for your second batch.
My favourites include lasagne, moussaka, macaroni cheese, enchiladas, curry and other similar oven-friendly recipes that can easily be cooked much faster in the air fryer without the need for preheating.
Make a double batch of the recipe and portion up the first meal
for dinner. Then, as you are doing the washing up, add the second meal to a foil tray. Once cool, label and freeze it. Or you can keep it in the fridge; if you love the recipe, you may want round two the next day! Then as you start to build up a freezer supply you can have a variety of meals a few times a week without feeling like you are in a mealtime rut.
Sam and Dom Milner are the co-authors of Air Fryer Easy Every Day: 140 super-simple delicious recipes (£20, White Lion Publishing) available from www.bookshop.org and founders of www.recipethis.com
Outdoor fun and learning
Spring is the perfect season to embrace the wonders of nature with your children. The budding trees and and connect with wildlife. Whether you have a sprawling garden, a small balcony or just a window box, outdoor fun with your family this spring. Each project offers a
Bug hotels are fantastic for biodiversity and providing shelter for insects, including beetles, ladybirds and solitary bees. They’re also a brilliant hands-on project for children. Start by gathering natural materials like twigs, pinecones, bark, bamboo canes and dry leaves. Use an old wooden box or stack pallets to create the structure, filling the compartments with these materials. You can also recycle everyday items like bricks with holes, cardboard tubes or broken terracotta pots.
To make your bug hotel even more appealing to solitary bees, create a ‘bee hotel’ section by bundling together hollow bamboo canes or drilling holes of varying sizes into wooden blocks. This provides ideal nesting spots for these important pollinators. Position this section in a sunny, sheltered spot, as solitary bees prefer warmth and dryness.
Encourage kids to monitor their creation regularly. Buglife (www.buglife.org) has a fantastic bug directory to help you identify your tiny new visitors and find out more about them. Remind children to visit the hotel at different times of the day and observe which insects prefer which areas of the hotel.
Dom Higgins, Head of Health and Education at The Wildlife Trusts (www.wildlifetrusts.org) says encouraging children’s natural curiosity can instil a lifelong love of nature that brings physical benefits. He also believes that getting hands-on can help prevent or dispel fears about creepie-crawlies. ‘Children have a fascination with insects and creepie-crawlies. Isn’t it often the adults who are squeamish, rather than the children?’
Need more ideas for bug hotels? Famly (www.famly.co) has an excellent guide to creating different kinds of bug hotels from a really simple ten-minute project to the mega-complex.
Create a butterfly garden
Pollinators like butterflies are vital for the ecosystem and attracting them to your garden is easier than you might think. Plant a variety of nectar-rich flowers such as lavender, marigolds and buddleia. Herbs
Create a hedgehog haven
Hedgehogs are nocturnal wonders with a crucial role in maintaining garden health by eating pests like slugs and snails. To welcome our prickly friends, leave a small gap in your garden fence for them to pass through. Avoid using slug pellets as they can harm hedgehogs.
You can also make or purchase a hedgehog house. Position it in a quiet, shaded area and fill it with dry leaves or hay. Providing fresh water and food such as meat-based cat or dog food (not milk or bread) can encourage regular visits. Involve your children in setting up and checking the hedgehog house and teach them to observe from a distance to avoid disturbing these shy creatures.
Go on a minibeast hunt
Transform your garden or local park into a treasure trove of discovery by organising a minibeast hunt. Equip children with magnifying glasses, notebooks and a checklist of insects to find, such as ants, worms, spiders and centipedes. Look under logs, leaves and stones for hidden creatures, taking care to return everything to its original position.
This activity teaches kids about the diversity of life and the importance of even the smallest creatures in the ecosystem. Encourage them to sketch their discoveries or write down fun facts about each species.
like thyme, mint and oregano are also excellent choices for window boxes or small spaces.
Children can help plant and care for these flowers, learning about the life cycles of pollinators in the process. A butterfly-friendly garden can also include flat stones where butterflies can bask in the sun and shallow water dishes for drinking.
Build a bug hotel
learning this spring
and singing birds are not just signs of life and new beginnings but also opportunities to explore, learn box, there are plenty of ways to create a thriving mini ecosystem. Ellie Malt shares eight ideas to inspire a mix of hands-on creativity, learning and the joy of discovery.
Spring is nesting season, making it the perfect time to install a bird box. Instead of using traditional wooden designs, try upcycling something from around your home to create a unique nesting spot. An old teapot, for example, can be securely mounted with the spout angled downward to keep it dry. An unused wooden drawer or even a sturdy cardboard box coated in weatherproof paint can also work well. Get creative, let your children decorate the bird box with non-toxic paints to make it truly one-of-a-kind.
Position the box at least two metres above the ground in a sheltered spot, away from direct sunlight and predators. Monitor it discreetly: watching birds nest and raise their chicks is a magical experience for the whole family.
To deepen your connection with the wildlife, consider setting up a small camera near the bird box to observe the activity inside without disturbing the birds. Alternatively, create a simple bird hide using branches, camouflage netting or an old blanket to watch birds from a distance. This can turn your garden into a mini wildlife observation station, sparking curiosity and teaching patience.
Explore the magic of window boxes and balconies
Even if you don’t have a garden, you can still attract wildlife to your home with a well-planted window box or balcony.
Choose a mix of flowering plants for pollinators and leafy greens for sheltering insects. Children can decorate pots and help with planting, fostering their creativity and nurturing skills.
Add a small dish of water with stones for insects to drink from and hang tiny feeders or seed balls to attract birds.
Observing wildlife at close range from your window can be just as rewarding as a garden safari.
Feed the birds
Birdwatching is a relaxing and educational activity that can be enjoyed year-round but spring is particularly vibrant as many birds prepare for nesting.
Start
a compost heap
Composting is an awesome way to teach children about the natural cycle of decomposition. A simple compost heap or bin can provide a habitat for worms, woodlice and other decomposers while producing nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
Get children involved by letting them add fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells and garden clippings to the compost. Add torn up plain cardboard to provide carbon and recycle household packaging. Explain how the materials break down over time and why composting is essential for reducing waste.
Checking the compost heap regularly can reveal fascinating insect activity and foster a deeper understanding of nature.
Set up bird feeders with a mix of seeds, peanuts and suet balls to attract a variety of species. You can also make simple feeders using pinecones, peanut butter and birdseed or string apple slices and raisins onto garden twine. Consider adding a birdbath for drinking and bathing.
Encourage your children to keep a bird journal, noting the species they spot and their behaviour. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (www.rspb.org.uk) can help with identification and provide tips for bird-friendly gardening. Warblr (www.warblr.co.uk) is an iPhone and Android app that automatically recognises British birds by their song.
Ellie Malt is a mum of two daughters living in Surrey.
Build a bird box and bird hide
Holiday Fun
With two weeks to fill during the Easter holidays, we’ve picked out some of our favourite family friendly activities to help pass the time. We cover something for everyone, from Easter egg hunts to family shows as well as watersports and drama workshops. Happy planning!
BCA Zoo run family zoo days on the last Saturday of each month from March until September. Book a 3-hour morning or afternoon slot and explore at your own pace. Keeper talks and animal feeds run throughout the day. Burchetts Green SL6 6QR https://zoo.bca.ac.uk
Beale Park Wildlife Park and gardens offer daily school holiday activities: meet the bugs, pedaloes, giant inflatable slide and all the usual attractions. Lower Basildon, RG8 9NW www.bealepark.org.uk
Blenheim Palace has an Easter Eggstravaganza taking place Friday 18 April to Monday 21 April. Hop along to the Walled Garden to enjoy a whole host of egg-citing activities! Woodstock OX20 1PP www.blenheimpalace.com
Take a swim at Braywick Leisure Centre or join the roller disco. Or if it’s crazy golf you’re interested in, Maidenhead Mini golf located at Braywick park boasts 18 holes of dinosaur themed mini golf. Maidenhead SL6 1BN www.leisurefocus.org.uk/our-centres/braywick-leisure-centre www.maidenheadminigolf.co.uk
Why not spend Easter weekend at the Chiltern Open Air Museum at their Medieval Festival. This runs from Saturday 19 April to Monday 21 April. Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Peter HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk
Feeling ready to brave some watersports this Easter holiday? Try hiring boats, paddleboards, canoes and more at Dinton Pastures, Bray Lake or Taplow Lake. Your children may discover a new skill and love for the outdoors. Also look out for Bray Lake’s range of children’s camp activities. www.braylake.com/activities https://booking.wokingham.gov.uk/boat-hire https://taplowlakeside.co.uk
Jump In Adventure and Trampoline Park Slough is the perfect way to bounce off some energy! Check out Airbag where you can enjoy the freedom of flying and landing in what feels like an airy cloud, Wipe Out, test your reaction times on the Reaction wall, ride the Scoop slide or have a go in the Arena; an air-tracked multi-sports pitch where you can challenge your friends to a game. Younger bouncers get the run of the park during Toddler Takeover sessions, ages 1-6. Ages 4+ can enjoy Open Jump, or party in a cool night club atmosphere during After Dark sessions. 550 Dundee Rd, Slough SL1 4LE www.gojumpin.com/trampoline-park-slough
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew can offer the whole family lots of fun at Easter. In particular look out for the Children’s Garden specifically designed for ages 2-12. Based in a natural setting the size of 40 tennis courts, children can explore all the things plants need to grow. Children also love ‘The Hive’ and the viewing platforms that allow them to see Kew from the trees. Plus, from Saturday 5 April to Friday 25 April, enjoy a spud-tastic family day out with Supertato and his heroic veggie friends. Discover how fruits and veggies grow, enjoy hands-on activities and tackle fun challenges based on the bestselling books. Richmond TW9 3AE www.kew.org/kew-gardens/families www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/supertato
Legoland Windsor Resort reopens for the season on Thursday 13 March. There’s plenty on offer for the whole family to enjoy including the Minifigure Speedway, the world’s first LEGO® themed duelling rollercoaster that not only races forward but also races in reverse and the LEGO® themed indoor golf experience (separate charge applies, but can also be visited separately to the rest of the resort). If you fancy an overnight stay, the LEGOLAND® Woodland Village which opened last year, is the newest addition to the resort. Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY www.legoland.co.uk
There are plenty of great National Trust places to visit within an hour’s drive. Cliveden, Basildon Park, Grey’s Court, Hughenden, Stowe, The Vyne and Waddesdon are all favourites with us. Locally, don’t miss out on Cliveden’s School of Hop which is running from Saturday 5 April to Monday 21 April. Follow a 10-point activity trail to learn how to be an Easter Bunny, with a Graduation selfie frame at the end. Cliveden Road, Taplow, Maidenhead, SL1 8NS www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue is an exciting new interactive and immersive experience that invites longtime Minecrafters, new players and families of all ages to step into the world of Minecraft and become real-life heroes on an interactive quest like no other. Visitors will embark on a 45-minute journey as they explore seven distinctive Minecraft-themed rooms, teaming up to rescue a village under siege from a zombie attack. As heroes, players must save the villagers and gather the vital ingredients needed to cure them, before time runs out. Opens Friday 4 April. Canada Water SE16 7LL www.minecraftexperience.com
There’s always room for a museum visit during the school holidays. Some of our favourites are listed here! The Story Museum’s immersive exhibitions and workshops are a great way to celebrate a love of stories and adventure Oxford, OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk Oxford University Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW, www.oumnh.ox.ac.uk and Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden HP16 0AL
Odds Farm Park
Don’t forget to check our What’s on pages too! www.roalddahlmuseum.org are also great for the holidays. The River and Rowing museum’s 3D Wind in the Willows experience has always been a firm favourite with our younger children! Henley-on-Thames RG9 1BF www.rrm.co.uk
Odds Farm Park’s annual Easter event ‘Spring into Easter’ will run from Saturday 5 April to Mon 21 April. There will be daily shows featuring Professor Egghead and Henrietta in The Great Eggsperiment, while the Easter Bunny will be making guest appearances throughout the Easter weekend (Good Friday–Easter Monday). Enjoy all their usual activities throughout the day too. Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, Wooburn Green HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk
A park visit can be great for all ages! There are so many to choose from but these are just a few on our list: Boulter’s Lock and Ray Mill Island, Maidenhead SL6 8PE. Black Park, Denham Country Park and Langley Park all offer adventure playgrounds and plenty of space to run around in or climb trees, as well as cafes for refreshments. https://countryparks.buckscc.gov.uk If you’re looking for adventure in the trees, Go Ape Black Park has plenty to offer too. Dinton Pastures Country Park. Much like Black Park, there is a scenic walk round the lake, woodland to explore and an impressive adventure playground. Hurst RG10 0TH www. dinton-pastures.co.uk Windsor Great Park, wander through the deer park, visit the 100 foot Totem Pole at Virginia Water lake, or clamber over the rocks by the copper horse at the top of The Long Walk. www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk
Quest Family Fest at Norden Farm will be running from Tuesday 8 April to Saturday 19 April and offers 2 weeks of creative adventures, shows, films and workshops to keep kids busy. Don’t forget to book for their Explore day on Friday 18 April. A full day of taster workshops for children and families. Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
Children and Teenagers can make friends, have fun and develop some great new skills at the fabulous Stagecoach Holiday Drama Clubs and Workshops. Their holiday workshops are designed for six to 18-year-olds, with some areas offering workshops for kids aged four to six. At the end of their workshops, the students will join together to showcase their new-found singing, acting and dancing skills to family and friends. Find your nearest school and camps they offer www.stagecoach.co.uk/holiday-workshops
A family show is a great way to spend an afternoon together. Our favourite venues to visit with smaller children are Norden Farm in Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org and Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk Our What’s on pages have more details of shows this holiday.
Visit the science exhibition at The Lookout Discovery Centre with over 90 activities which children of all ages can enjoy and learn from. They also have an extensive outdoor playground and there are some great cycle trails too. Bracknell, RG12 7QW www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisure-services/look-outdiscovery-centre
A trip to Windsor Castle is always a lovely option for the school holidays. Advantage cards offer discounts for residents (revised for 2025) so do check this before you go. Visit the Pug yard learning centre too for some Easter activities. SL4 1NJ. www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle
All events still had availability at the time of going to print (February 2025).
QUEST Family Fest
What's On Your family guide to
Ongoing
The Paddington Bear™ Experience Throughout Mar and Apr Multi-sensory interactive adventure for all ages. Belvedere Rd, Southbank SE1 7GP www.paddingtonbearexperience.com
Story and Rhyme Time at Maidenhead Library Tuesdays in Mar and Apr Maidenhead Library, St Ives Road SL6 1QU www.rbwm.gov.uk
Active Bounce and Play at Wycombe Leisure Centre Tuesdays and Thursdays in Mar and Apr Under 8s. Sessions are 9.30am, 10.30am and 11.30am (SEN). Pre-book. Wycombe Leisure Centre, Handy Cross, High Wycombe HP11 1UP www.placesleisure.org/centres/wycombeleisure-centre
Story and Rhyme Time at Windsor Library Thursdays in Mar and Apr Windsor Library, Royal Free Court, 9 Bachelors Acre SL4 1ER www.rbwm.gov.uk
Roller Disco at Braywick Saturdays in Mar and Apr Scoot and Skate: 3pm-4pm (Beginners) Family and Friends Roller Disco: Early Session: 4:15pm-5:15pm Late Session: 5.30pm-7:30pm Braywick Leisure Centre, Braywick Rd, Maidenhead SL6 1BN www.www.leisurefocus.org.uk
March
Positive Piccolos at St Mary’s Church Langley
Mon 3, 10, 17, 24 Mar, 31 Mar and 28 Apr
Early Years Music Classes from birth-3 years
Music classes with weekly themes, props, instruments and bubble time, tailored for little ones to explore, play and connect. 10-10:40am for walkers-3yrs 10:50-11:30am for sitters-prewalkers
St Mary’s Church Centre, Langley SL3 7EL www.happity.co.uk/positive-piccolos
Nature Tots at Woolley Firs Mon 3 Mar
Preschool fun outdoors 10am. £7 plus booking fee (Block booking now available).
Spongebob Musical at South Hill Park Wed 5 Mar-Sun 9 Mar
Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? Why, it’s SpongeBob SquarePants! And now he’s ready to ride the wave with Crowthorne Musical Players. South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell RG12 7PA www.southhillpark.org.uk/shp-events/thespongebob-musical
Positive Piccolos at Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges
Wed 5, 12, 19, 26 Mar and 23, 30 Apr
Early Years Music Classes from birth-3 years
Music classes with weekly themes, props, instruments and bubble time, tailored for little ones to explore, play, and connect. 10-10:40am from birth-sitters in Stoke Poges 129 Rogers Lane, Slough SL2 4LP www.happity.co.uk/positive-piccolos
Playtime Playgroup at St John’s Church Egham
Fri 7 Mar
Playtime for under 5s and carers. Term time Fridays 9.30-11.15am
St John’s Church, Egham TW20 9HR www.stjohnsegham.com/playtime
Maidenhead’s Big Read at Maidenhead Library
Sat 8 Mar-Sun 9 Mar
Theme: Want to take flight?
Inspiring, enthusing and entertaining through literature and the arts. Author sessions, storytelling and activities for KS1, KS2 and KS3. Maidenhead Library, St Ives Rd SL6 1QU www.maidenheads-big-read.org.uk
Young & Teen Rangers ay Woolley Firs Sat 8 Mar and Sat 26 Apr
Wildlife club for 8-11 yrs. 10am-12noon. For 11-17yrs. 1-3pm. Woolley Firs, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Soccer Diaries - Rocky Takes the Road at the story Museum
Sat 8 Mar
Join author Tom Palmer for the next installment of the Soccer Diaries.
The Story Museum, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on
World Book Day - Half Price Entry at the Story Museum
Sat 8 Mar
Come dressed up as your favourite book character and enjoy half price entry to the museum.
The Story Museum Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on
Madagascar the Musical at South Hill Park
Wed 12 Mar
Get ready to move it, move it! Artemis Studios
Performing Arts School proudly presents Madagascar Jr.
South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell RG12 7PA www.southhillpark.org.uk/shp-events/ madagascar-jr
Toddlers Days at The Look Out Discovery Centre
Thu 13 Mar-Fri 14 Mar
Theme: Spring
The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Crowthorne RG12 7QW www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk
Fairy Tales at The Story Museum
Sat 15 Mar
Embracing Arts present their magical sensory puppet version of Jack and the Beanstalk, suitable for families, including children with additional needs.
The Story Museum Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on
Nature Tots at Woolley Firs
Fri 21 Mar and Fri 25 Apr
Pre-school fun outdoors. 10am. Woolley Firs, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Adventures with Woodland Friends at Coworth Flexlands School
Sat 22 Mar
Community event for local families with children 2-5 yrs. Scavenger hunts, arts & crafts, forest school and more. FREE admission, activities and refreshments included. 10am-12pm Chertsey Rd, Chobham, Woking GU24 8TE www.coworthflexlands.co.uk
EYFS Saturday Social at Eton End School Sat 22 Mar 10am-12.00pm for children in Nursery and Reception 35 Eton Road, Datchet SL3 9AX www.etonend.org
Nature Tots at Woolley Firs
Mon 24 Mar and Mon 28 Apr Pre-school fun outdoors. 10am. Woolley Firs, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.
Event times and dates do change, please try and check that an event is still going ahead before you head out.
Bushcraft Day Camp at Woolley Firs
Mon 24 Mar and Mon 28 Apr Day Camp for 8-12 year olds (no guardians necessary).
£3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and free-from chocolate egg. Normal admission applies.10am-4pm.
Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe HP14 4LA www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Regency Easter Adventures at The Vyne Sat 29 Mar-Mon 21 Apr
£3.50 per trail sheet and prize. Normal admission applies. 10am-3pm
Sherborne St John, Basingstoke RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk
April
Robin Hood at The Kenton Theatre
Sat 5 Apr-Tue 8 Apr
Immersion Theatre are thrilled to present The Kenton Theatre’s very first Easter Pantomime! The Kenton Theatre, Henley-on-Thames RG9 2BS www.thekenton.org.uk
Spring into Easter at Odds Farm Park Sat 5 Apr-Mon 21 Apr
There will be daily shows featuring Professor Egghead and Henrietta in The Great Eggsperiment, while the Easter Bunny will be making guest appearances throughout the Easter weekend.
Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Green HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk
School of Hop at Cliveden
Sat 5 Apr-Mon 21 Apr
A 10-point activity trail to learn how to be an Easter Bunny, with a Graduation selfie frame at the end.
FREE with entry to the castle. Get creative with some Turner-inspired arts and crafts. Make a memento to take home and enjoy a FREE trail as you further explore the Castle. Castle closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays Windsor Castle, Pug Yard Learning Centre www.rct.uk/whatson
Supertato at Kew Gardens
Sat 5 Apr-Fri 25 Apr Hands-on activities and fun challenges based on the bestselling books.
Kew Gardens, Richmond TW9 3AE www.kew.org
Easter Egg Hunt at Basildon Park
Sat 5 Apr-Sun 27 Apr
£3 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and free-from chocolate egg. 10am-5pm.
Pond Dipping and Craft at Woolley Firs Mon 7 Apr and Thu 17 Apr
Family event for 5+ yrs with a guardian. 10am to 12pm (morning sessions) and 1pm to 3pm (afternoon sessions) Woolley Firs, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Mufasa: The Lion King at Norden Farm Tue 8 Apr-Thu 10 Apr
Cinema showing. Certificate PG. Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
Easter Art and Music at Charlotte Pratt Memorial Hall Tue 8 Apr
With Positive Piccolos and Mini Nature Artists.
11-11:45am sitting-4 yrs old. Charlotte Pratt Memorial Hall RG42 7NY www.mininatureartists.com
Drop-off Day at Iver Environmental Centre Tue 8 Apr
Book in advance for 7-11 yr olds. Activities from 10am-4pm Slough Rd, Iver SL0 0EB www.iverenvironmentcentre.org
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe at The Swan Theatre Tue 8 Apr-Sat 12 Apr
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as the West End smash-hit production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe comes to Wycombe. Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 at Norden Farm Wed 9 Apr, Tue 15 Apr, Wed 16 Apr Cinema showing. Certificate PG. Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
The Farmer and the Clown at Norden Farm Thu 10 Apr
A wordless show for all ages, featuring dance, physical comedy and live music.
Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
How to Catch a Book Witch at Norden Farm Fri 11 Apr
Kira loves reading, visiting the library for a new book is her favourite thing. One day the words in the books start to disappear and the adults start to get grumpy.
Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
Storytime at South Hill Park Fri 11 Apr
Popular children’s author Steven Lee joins us to bring some of his best loved books to life. South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell RG12 7PA www.southhillpark.org.uk
The Dinosaur that Pooped a Rock Show at Theatre Royal Windsor Fri 11 Apr
When Danny and Dino’s favourite rock band are playing their last ever concert, they go on a quest to get the last two tickets.
Theatre Royal Windsor, SL4 1PS www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk
The Amazing Bubble Man at Norden Farm Sat 12 Apr
Louis Pearl thrills with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles.
Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
Museum of Marvelous Things at The Curve Sat 12 Apr
Discover stars in jars, catch moons like balloons, dance with Doo-Dahs in cages, sing with NooNahs on stages. Because this is a museum like no other it’s made from the magic of your imagination and you get to bring it alive. The Curve, William Street, Slough SL1 1XY www.curvevenue.uk
The Wizard of Oz at The Swan Theatre Mon 14 Apr
This spectacular, pantomimic, colourful story is packed with hilarious jokes, dazzling dance routines, glittering scenery and plenty more for all the family!
Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk
Sparkling Edwardian Easter at Buckingham Palace Mon 14 Apr and Thur 17 Apr
Take inspiration from the shimmering exhibition items and create your own sparkling Easter egg. FREE with admission
Buckingham Palace SW1A 1AA www.rct.uk
Shadow Nercropolis at Norden Farm Tue 15 Apr
A spooky fantasy adventure for the family. Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
Shadow Nercropolis at The Curve Wed 16 Apr
A young girl named Minerva is a hero in her dreams but feels helpless in real life.
The Curve, William Street, Slough SL1 1XY www.curvevenue.uk
Olaf Falafel’s Stupidest Super Stupid Show
So Far at Norden Farm
Wed 16 Apr
Comedian and children's author Olaf Falafel is dishing up another frying pan full of familyfriendly comedy.
Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
How to Catch a Book Witch at The Curve
Wed 16 Apr
Kira loves reading, visiting the library for a new book is her favourite thing. One day the words in the books start to disappear and the adults start to get grumpy.
The Curve, William Street, Slough SL1 1XY www.curvevenue.uk
The Museum of Marvellous Things at Norden Farm
Thu 17 Apr
With giant puppets, songs, interactive storytelling, show stopping costumes, live original music and a chance to make your own special puppet.
Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4P www.nordenfarm.org
Easter Eggstravaganzaa at Blenheim Palace
Fri 18 Apr-Mon 21 Apr
Hop along to the Walled Garden to enjoy a whole host of egg-citing activities!
FREE Easter fun for young families (age 0-12yrs). Grenfell Park, Maidenhead. www.maidenheadbridgerotary.org.uk/ easterfunday
Birth Preparation Classes at Jamia Masjid & Islamic Centre
Sun 27 Apr
Classes delivered in Urdu language for Wexham/ Frimley park mum’s to be. (Other class dates are 29 Jun, 3 Aug, 29 Oct, 14 Dec). 1-4pm. Jamia Masjid & Islamic Centre (JMIC Mosque) 83 Stoke Poges Lane, Slough SL1 3NY https://forms.office.com/e/U9Gdg0FYbG
Toddlers Days at the Look Out Discovery Centre
Tue 29 Apr- Wed 30 Apr
Theme: Bugs & Beasties
The Look Out Discovery centre, Nine Mile Ride, Crowthorne RG12 7QW www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk
Upcoming
The Local Food and Chilli Festival at Windsor View Lakes
Sat 28 Jun and Sun 29 Jun
Your local all family festival brings you live music, kids entertainment and much more. Early Bird Weekend tickets from just £15 for 2 Adults. Kids 15 yrs & under are always FREE Windsor View Lakes, Datchet, SL3 9HX www.TheLocalFoodFestival.com
Acclaimed family-friendly UK museums
Compiled by Andrew Campbell
The UK is brimming with ‘must-see’ museums with plenty for families to explore. Engage with history in Nottinghamshire, spark young imaginations in London and see art come to life in Margate! Here are our top picks. All the museums featured have either won or been shortlisted in the Family-Friendly Museum Awards 2024 by Kids in Museums (www.kidsinmuseums.org.uk)
WINNER
Best Museum
Youth Group
The Tees Valley Museums, Teeside
An exciting world of discovery for children awaits at these five museums, with hands-on exhibits, interactive displays and workshops that make learning fun. Each museum features unique activities, from exploring local history to engaging in creative art sessions. Kids can enjoy playful educational experiences in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Endless opportunities for fun and imagination! www.teesvalleymuseums.org
National Galleries Scotland, Edinburgh
Shortlisted Best Large Museum
Children can immerse themselves in a variety of creative activities ranging from hands-on art workshops to storytelling sessions inspired by the gallery’s iconic artworks. Interactive stations allow young visitors to experiment with colours and shapes and families can join fun-filled events that explore different art techniques or engage in treasure hunts designed to uncover artistic treasures. www.nationalgalleries.org
Science and Industry Museum
Science and Industry Museum, Manchester
Shortlisted for Best Large Museum
Delve into a world of discovery through exciting, hands-on activities that bring science and technology to life! From building circuits to experimenting with forces in interactive zones, there’s something to spark curiosity in every little scientist. Families can join creative workshops, take part in live demonstrations or enjoy fun-filled science shows. www.scienceandindustry museum.org.uk
Young V&A, London
A vibrant hub of creativity designed to inspire young minds. Celebrating art, design and performance, it houses interactive exhibits, hands-on workshops and captivating displays tailored for children and families. Highlights include iconic toys, playful installations and opportunities to explore imaginative spaces. The museum fosters creativity and curiosity in young audiences and is a must-visit destination for families seeking an unforgettable experience. www.vam.ac.uk/young
The Turner Contemporary, Margate, Kent Offers a fantastic experience for children, with interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities that bring art to life. Kids can explore creative workshops, hands-on art projects and playful installations, sparking their imagination and curiosity. The gallery’s welcoming atmosphere and engaging programmes ensure a fun and educational visit for families. Overlooking Margate’s beautiful coastline, it’s the perfect place for children to discover a love for art and creativity. www.turnercontemporary.org
Museum of Making, Derby, Derbyshire
Shortlisted for Best Medium Museum
Discover an incredible space where children can engage with interactive exhibits showcasing creativity and innovation. Kids will revel in hands-on activities, like building and creating in dedicated workshops, while interactive displays unravel the wonders of design and technology. Educational programmes inspire and encourage exploration. www.derbymuseums.org
WINNER
Best Accessssible Museum
The Cooper Gallery, Barnsley, South Yorkshire
An opportunity for an enriching and fun experience for children. With interactive art displays, creative workshops and family-friendly activities, the Gallery is perfect for sparking young imaginations. Kids can explore art through hands-on sessions and exciting exhibits designed just for them. The gallery’s welcoming vibe and dedicated children’s programmes make it a great option for a day out. www.cooper-gallery.com
National Civil War Centre, Newark, Nottinghamshire
Take a fascinating glimpse into England’s tumultuous past! Dedicated to preserving Civil War history, it boasts immersive exhibits, rare artifacts and interactive displays that bring the 17th-century conflict to life. Visitors can explore pivotal moments of the English Civil War, including Newark’s significance as a royalist stronghold. With knowledgeable guides and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a top choice for history lovers and the curious! www.nationalcivilwarcentre. com
