Families Thames Valley West Magazine September-October 2018

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H ME KE TA

EE FR E OM

Thames Valley West IN THIS ISSUE

Back to School!

Help Your Child Cope with Stress Making the Best of Open Days Independent vs State Education RECRUITING NOW

Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

PLUS Berkshire’s Best Firework Displays Clubs and Classes to Try Today Halloween Crafts

Issue 97 September/October 2018

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle,

please call Diana Page 01235 533362 07747 086518

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...endless ideas for families of young children in Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire Families® Thames Valley West • Issue 97 • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018 Visit us at www.familiesonline.co.uk

Hello from the Editor

In This Issue...

4

News and Views

11

Helping your Child cope with Stress

Thames Valley West

Don’t Miss these great offers • FREE trial with Steppin’ Out, see p.25 • 20% off introductory offer at Aquababies, see p.28-29 • FREE trial at diddi dance, see p.28-29 12

13

How Thinking Skills can Equip your Child for the Future

• FREE taster class at BilinguaSing, see p.28-29

Independent School Open Days – Autumn Term 2018-08-10

• FREE trial at Berzerk, see p.28-29

• FREE trial at Perform, see p.28-29

Welcome to Autumn! It’s been an amazing summer for our family, hope yours was too.

As usual it has flown past and now we are at the start of another school year. This issue is a Back to School special and is packed full of helpful features to help you navigate the first few weeks of school.

Check out our features on helping your child cope with stress (p.11), tips for choosing after school clubs (p.30), choosing independent vs. state education (p.16).

To advertise: If you are reading this, so are your customers! We can help you reach an audience of over 45,000 parents in Reading, Henley, Newbury, Wokingham, Bracknell and West Berkshire. Give us a call on 01235 751 980 or drop us a line at editor@familiestvw.co.uk to find out how we can help support your family friendly business!

The Families Team Editor: Lucy Heather 16

Independent or State Education?

21

What’s On including the best of Berkshire Fireworks

26

Half Term Holiday Clubs

30

Tips for Choosing After School Clubs Halloween Craft – Make a Doorway Dare

Next Issue: November/December – Seasonal celebrations, Pantomimes, Where’s Santa!

Booking deadline: 1st October.

Finally, Halloween and Firework night are just around the corner, so get your kids into the spooky spirit by making our craft Doorway Dare on p.31, and see our pick of the best local fireworks displays in our What’s On guide, starting on p.21.

Have a wonderful Autumn Term and it will soon be time to get out the tinsel!

Best wishes

Lucy

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O LI N DA O Y W W BO O R O KS K H IN O G P S

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Designed by: Ridgeway Press Ltd, 01256 300 420 www.ridgewaypress.co.uk

After school clubs and classes are a great way to give your child a chance to shine and have fun, and on p.28 you’ll find our directory with the pick of the best clubs and classes in the area.

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News & Views Two Thirds of Children Not Safe in Cars Parents are being advised to check their children's car seats after a new study found that two in three children aren't safe while travelling.

The What Car? study, created in conjunction with specialist organisation Child Seat Safety found that 59% of children are sitting in car seats that have been incorrectly fitted or are inappropriate for them.

The survey on 3,000 seats, with and without children in them, held at random seat-checking events throughout the UK, revealed that 36% were

incorrectly fitted in the car, while 33% of those that had children in them weren’t suitable.

Many of the mistakes were said to be "simple and easy to avoid," and included tightening seat belts, incorrect head restraints or harnesses being in the wrong position.

In the UK, children are legally required to remain in a car seat until they are either 12 years old or at least 135 cm tall, whichever comes first.

More info at www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-therules

Fruit Juice with Breakfast Places Children at Higher Risk of Obesity Children who drink fruit juice with breakfast are more likely to become overweight or obese.

A study, led by the Medical University of Vienna, revealed that children who had orange or apple juice with their breakfast were 50% more likely to be overweight, while those who drank water saw their obesity risk fall by 40%.

It also found that skipping breakfast is linked to weight gain as it makes children more likely to snack during the day.

The study, published at the European Congress on Obesity in Vienna, questioned 652 children aged 13 on their breakfast habits and, while most types of food had no clear relationship with weight, those who drank fruit juice more than three times a week were 50 per cent more likely to be overweight or obese.

More info at https://eco2018.easo.org/

More than Third of Parents Think Homework is Unhelpful According to a recent Ofsted report, more than a third of parents said homework isn’t helpful to their children in primary school. Many parents said homework was a huge cause of stress for the whole family and had a negative impact on home life.

Nearly three quarters of parents thought allowing children more time at school to plan and get ready for lessons through research was a better alternative to homework.

Parents gave some very clear messages about homework, both negative and positive. Those who spoke positively said that homework enables them to feel part of their child’s learning and that it helps them to support that learning with other activities, such as visits to museums and home projects. The discipline, planning and time management skills that homework gives children

were welcomed and homework was viewed as a way of promoting independent learning.

More info at www.gov.uk/government/publications/ofstedparents-panel

School Mental Health Referrals Rise By Over a Third The number of referrals by schools seeking mental health treatment for pupils has shot up by more than a third in the last three years, the NSPCC has revealed.

The charity found that schools made 123,713 referrals seeking professional help for pupils from NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) since 2014/15. Just over half (56%) came from primary schools.

Referrals have been steadily increasing every year, reaching 34,757 in 2017/18, the equivalent of 183 every school day.

The NSPCC is warning that increased demand for mental health support is placing the system under real pressure,

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jeopardising the well-being of thousands of children.

Nearly a third of referrals from schools to CAMHS over the last three years were declined treatment as they did not meet the criteria for support.

More info at www.nspcc.org.uk

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News & Views Babies Prefer Hearing Voices of Other Babies

Digital Citizenship Classes Required for Children The internet and social media are a permanent part of modern childhood and for most children they offer huge opportunities to learn and connect, according to the Children's Commissioner for England.

However, children are now the internet’s biggest users and Anne Longfield believes they have inadequate skills to negotiate their lives online and are frequently giving away personal information.

Ms Longfield recommends interventions from government to make sure children are better equipped to make safe and informed choices online. She recommends that children should study "digital citizenship" to learn about their rights and

responsibilities online and that social media companies should rewrite their terms and conditions in far simpler language.

Children already learn about using the internet and staying safe online at school but Ms Longfield wants to make this learning part of the curriculum from age 4 with the focus on ‘digital resilience.

She has produced a ‘Digital 5 a Day’ guide which sets out ways in which families can make sure time online time is productive. This guide can act as a base for family agreements about internet and device use during term and holiday time.

More info at www.childrenscommissioner.gov.uk

Recent research has revealed that babies appear to be much more interested in listening to other babies than they are listening to adults.

Researchers from McGill University and the University of Montreal conducted experiments on 5 month old babies. By using a synthesizer that simulates movements of the mouth, tongue, and vocal cords, they were able to produce vowel sounds that mimicked human voices. The babies displayed a clear preference for the synthetic baby voices, listening to them for 40% longer,

on average, than the adult voices.

“This doesn’t mean mum or dad should give up oohing and aahing in high voices“ says Linda Polka, a professor at McGill University.

“Babies do respond to these kinds of sounds. However, infant speech captures and holds infant attention, sometimes prompting positive emotions. This may motivate infants to be vocally active and make it easier to evaluate their own vocalisations, perhaps energising and supporting spoken language development.”

More info at www.sciencedaily.com

Curiosity Is Key to Early Childhood Success New research links curiosity levels in young children with later academic success.

Researchers from the University of Michigan assessed the reading and maths ability of 6,200 kindergarten children and found that the children of parents who reported their child’s behaviour as highly curious did the best at school, regardless of socioeconomic status. The results were consistent for both boys and girls.

The children’s reading and maths scores were consistently better the more curious they were.

That was true even when the students weren't very good at a familiesonline.co.uk

self-control measure called "effortful control," which tracks how attentive and persistent students are when completing tasks.

“Even if a child manifests low effortful control, higher curiosity may be associated with more optimal academic achievement,” the authors of the study wrote.

The study, published in the journal Pediatric Research said that that cultivating curiosity in children, especially in those from deprived backgrounds may be a valuable way of fostering academic achievement.

More info at www.nature.com

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News & Views One Festival. Two Weekends. 5000 Free Events.

For the first time ever England’s biggest festival of heritage and culture will take place across two weekends in 2018.

Heritage Open Days, 6th to 9th and 13th to 16th September is an annual celebration of England's architecture and culture that allows visitors free access to historical landmarks that are either not usually open to the public, or would normally charge an entrance fee.

Co-ordinated nationally by the National Trust with support from the People’s Postcode Lottery it brings together thousands of organisations and properties across England.

With a theme of ‘Extraordinary Women,’ this year’s festival will offer visitors more opportunities to discover the secret history of their towns, villages and countryside.

There are hundreds of activities for kids, including dressing up, woodland walks, and railway rides.

Best of all, every single event is FREE! Here are some of the open days happening in the South of England.

For up to date information on events taking place near you visit, www.heritageopendays.org.uk Medieval Mosaic at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum, SOFO Trust, Woodstock Blow their minds with this Guinness Book of World Records installation! Measuring 64 metres, this recreation of the Bayeux Tapestry is officially the world’s largest steel mosaic. There’s also the chance for children to experience a recreated Great War trench and mock up section of a DDay Horsa Glider.

Thurs 6th and Thurs 13th, 10am 5pm The Great Hall, Hampshire County Council, Winchester Meet heroes and villains of the Great Hall’s history on a travel back to the ancient legends of King

Only Half of Pre-School Children Being Read to Daily

Arthur! Kids will also get to choose a character: an escaping Bishop, a gallant knight, or even royalty, with dressing-up costumes about Winchester Castle’s past!

Thurs 13th, Fri 14th, Sat 15th and Sun 16th, 10am - 4:30pm and 4pm on Sat Lulworth Castle & Park, Lulworth Estate, Dorset Walk in the footsteps of royalty as you explore this 17th century castle.

Visitors can enjoy the woodland walks and children's playground, with fun activities including Hunt the Bat in the Castle and Hunt the Squirrel in the Park.

Thurs 6th and Fri 7th, 10:30am 5pm The Bournville Experience, Cadbury World and Bournville Village Trust, Birmingham Take a tour about chocolate!

Displays cover the history of the company, a virtual reality conversation between George Cadbury and an employee, and a showcase of vintage packaging. It’s a fascinating experience for all ages.

All festival days, 10am - 3pm on Thurs and Fri, 9:30am - 4pm on Sat and Sun

The number of toddlers being read to daily has dropped by 20% since 2013, according to recent research.

The annual Understanding the Children’s Book Consumer survey from Nielsen Book Research found that while 69% of pre-school children were read to daily in 2013, that figure had now dropped to just 51%.

The study found parents complained of obstacles preventing them from reading to their children. Nearly a fifth said it was hard to find the energy at the end of the day, whilst 16% said their child would rather do

other things. One in five parents don’t feel comfortable in bookshops, and nearly half are overwhelmed by the choice of children’s books.

The publisher Egmont, which co-funded the research, said the decline correlated with an increase of almost a fifth in the proportion of toddlers watching online video content daily, and warned that the “steep decline” in reading to young children “signalled a significant threat to child development, with potential long-term social impact.”

More info at www.egmont.co.uk

Hemdean House School Caversham

Independent Primary School for boys and girls, age 3 to 11 Highest placed local Independent Primary School in The Sunday Times 2017 Top 100 Primary & Prep Schools Listing

Open Days

Saturday 29 September 2018 Wednesday 7 November 2018 10.00 – 12.00 noon Hemdean House School Hemdean Road, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire RG4 7SD @hemdeanhouse.co.uk www.hemdeanhouse.co.uk

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Education News Luckley – Celebrating their First 100 Years

Small school punches above its weight with top results

Luckley House School celebrates more than a new academic year in September. When the students and staff arrive for the start of term, they will be a part of an historic Centenary cohort marking 100 years of the School in Wokingham.

The original Luckley School was opened in 1918 by Miss Bertha Drake and Miss Ivy Barratt, firstly in Southland Road, Wokingham and then moved to its present-day Luckley Road site in November that year. The School became Luckley-Oakfield in 1959 when it amalgamated with Oakfield, Arnside in the Lake District, with 55 girls moving south to join 35 Luckleyans in 1959.

A lot has happened since then, most notably a name change to Luckley House School in 2013 and the first boys to put on the School uniform in 2015.

With 100 years of educational excellence under its belt, Luckley House School is excited to mark its birthday with several events planned from September 2018 to July 2019. These will bring together all past and present students, families and staff, to celebrate the School’s firm foundations and look forward to its continued success. These include: • Centenary Service of Thanksgiving, Wednesday 31 October - all are invited to the Service, followed by birthday refreshments • Musical Firework Extravaganza, Friday 9 November - a Luckley House Friends’ ticketed event • Christmas Market, Thursday 29 November

Yattendon Church of England Primary School is celebrating the end of a successful year – amongst the highest academic results in the area, and an impressive Ofsted report.

At Key Stage 1, the small school came top out of the 62 schools in the Local Authority for Reading, Writing and Maths. All children achieved at least the expected standard in Reading and Maths, and a number of pupils are working at Greater Depth. The KS2 SATs results put Yattendon in joint top spot with four other schools, with the highest achievement in Reading. Meanwhile, the Phonics pass rate for Year 1 children was 100 per cent for the second year running.

Headteacher, Rachel Manley, said: “This year’s results have been exceptional across the board, and I am so proud of all our hard-working children and teachers. But school life is certainly not just about the work – we aim to nurture the whole child, and ensure there are plenty of opportunities for all pupils to grow and learn in a happy and inspirational environment.”

- a free ticketed event with festive stalls, food and entertainment • The Big Party, Saturday 29 June 2019 - a ticketed event with fun for all the family, including food, entertainment and an outdoor cinema • Speech Day, Wednesday 10 July 2019 – bringing the Centenary year to a conclusion Jane Tudor, Head, said: “In addition to our big events there will also be a number of projects in School to mark our Centenary. The grounds will be flooded with 100 specially commissioned, ironwork bluebells and we are inviting all the School community and visitors to make their mark by adding a leaf to our Family Tree installation. Two wonderful ways to plant our milestone for the future.”

She concluded: “Members of the Luckley community; past, present and future, are equipped and ready to take on the challenges of life in our society. We are committed to being a force for good. This is as true today as it was the day Miss Bertha Drake decided to open our wonderful school, 100 years ago.”

Brockhurst and Marlston House Schools graded “Excellent” Double celebrations are in order for Brockhurst and Marlston House Preparatory Schools, based in Hermitage. The schools have recently been inspected and were graded “Excellent” in all areas.

The quality of pupils’ academic and other achievements, and the quality of pupils’ personal development were graded “Excellent”, the highest grade an independent school can be awarded.

Comments from the report include: “Attainment is above national age-related expectations”.

“Children in the EYFS progress and achieve at a level significantly above the national average”.

“Pupils consistently gain places at their firstchoice selective senior schools and many win scholarships”.

“Pupils are attentive and well-focused, creative, resilient and persistent in meeting the challenges they encounter.”

“Pupils demonstrate high levels of self-esteem and self-confidence due to the positive environment created by the schools”.

The Schools are also celebrating outstanding successes in scholarship exams this year with fifteen academic, music, sport, art and allrounder scholarships won to Winchester College, Harrow, Downe House, Bradfield College, Pangbourne, Radley College, St Edward’s Oxford, Heathfield and Millfield schools.

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The results come hot on the heels of an Ofsted Good rating earlier this term, and a report packed with praise. Some particular strengths highlighted were good leadership that sets high ambitions for pupils and staff, a strong sense of community and teamwork, and staff who are committed to meeting the needs of every pupil. The children make strong progress, feel well cared for and report that learning is fun: ‘Pupils’ approach to learning and their conduct continue to be exceptionally positive.’ The inspector commented that this was the first school he had visited in which feedback from parents was unanimously positive.

“The goalposts in education have never been higher, and a ‘Good’ rating is now considered far harder to achieve than with the previous Ofsted framework,” added Rachel Jones, Chair of Governors. “We’re a small school that punches well above our weight. The opportunities for pupils – both within and outside the school curriculum – are significant.”

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Education News Hemdean House – popular school of choice

Moulsford offers boys superb opportunities for learning whilst having fun.

A restructured curriculum was successfully introduced in September 2017, which moves away from the traditional Common Entrance preparation. The focus is not only to prepare boys for senior schools, but also to ensure they have the skills for life beyond. Exploration and enquiry is strongly encouraged and Moulsford life aims to develop boys’ resilience.

Through the school’s activities programme, they aim to offer opportunities to develop new skills and talents, whilst becoming a conscientious citizen. Their programme gives boys the chance to try bike maintenance, bushcraft, pantomime, parkour, geocaching and many more. The most popular activities are kayaking, climbing, archery, cooking and ceramics.

Moulsford’s reputation for sport, particularly rugby, remains extremely strong. Minor sports have also seen significant success in golf, skiing, fencing and judo, with some of the less

overtly sporty boys finding their niche and talent in these arenas. Music and drama also remain popular at Moulsford and roughly 75% of the boys from Years 3 to 8 play an instrument, with 14% learning two. Places in the choir are hotly contested, with a total of 58 boys in the senior choir and 80 in the junior choir.

The core values of respect, compassion and independence are at the heart of everything Moulsford does. Expectations are high, in terms of manners and discipline, and the boys respond accordingly. There is a strong rapport between staff and boys, and a sense of mutual respect.

One measure of Moulsford’s success is the broad range of scholarships and exhibitions awarded each year to the top senior independent schools, with a total of ten in 2018 at 13+ across a range of Academic, Sports, Music and All Rounder Awards.

At the heart of Caversham since 1859, Hemdean House School is proud to be an integral part of its community and also embraces a wider range of international families living locally, providing the perfect start for every child’s educational journey.

With the school’s excellent academic results, small class sizes, first class teachers, spacious grounds and accredited Forest School, Hemdean House is rapidly becoming an increasingly popular school of choice with families relocating to the Thames Valley from London and overseas. The school is nonselective, friendly and welcoming and has a family-focused ethos and culture. It offers a warm and all-inclusive welcome to children from both the local area and also other countries, communities and cultures, providing everything to ensure the happiness of all its pupils; the vital key to help them learn, thrive and grow at such an important time in their lives.

The school openly extends its welcome and education to all international families relocating to the area as sharing their lives with Hemdean’s community enriches and offers Hemdean House pupils important life lessons in modern day multi-cultural living. It also offers a valuable added dimension to their education, teaching them respect, understanding and empathy for their fellow pupils from around the world whilst at the same time enjoying building new and exciting life-long friendships.

For more information about Hemdean House School visit www.hemdeanhouse.co.uk

Cranford House set to introduce Sixth Form in 2020 With a history stretching back 87 years, Cranford House in Moulsford are a renowned leader in independent education. The addition of their forthcoming Sixth Form, which will welcome its first intake in September 2020, will cement the school’s reputation as a superb all-through option.

The all-through model gives parents the chance to educate their children within the same setting from Nursery School right up to A-Levels and is vaunted by many as the ideal way to ensure children grow and learn in a consistent

environment. This continuity can be key to ensuring that boys and girls are set the same high expectations throughout their whole school careers, without the peaks and troughs that school changes can bring.

At Cranford House, the all-through model also plays a vital part in creating the family feel for which the school is renowned, ensuring that children of all ages feel able to confidently explore, question and experiment with a real sense of security.

A vibrant learning community and values-based education creates impressive results at Leighton Park At its core, a Leighton Park education centres on the individual and the promise of choice. Their ethos informs an approach where students are able to follow their most impassioned interests, become active learners and succeed as themselves – all within a beautiful setting of 65 acres of parkland.

The success of their academic approach is demonstrated by the latest UK Government analysis, which showed that the school’s Sixth Form students achieved the best academic progress in Berkshire, placing the school in the top 40 in England.

An IB World School, the emphasis at Leighton Park is on problem solving, critical thinking and intercultural skills, ensuring that every student can succeed in an ever-changing, globalised familiesonline.co.uk

world. There is a particular focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM). The school is a Lead Partner for the Network of Teaching Excellence in Computer Science and Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 01235 751 980

their ICT facilities won the Education Business 2018 Award. The school is also a Yamaha Flagship Music Education Partner, with excellent music and media teaching and facilities, and aims to fuse their Creative Arts programme (Music, Drama, Art and Dance) with analytical skills from STEM so their students benefit from an interdisciplinary approach.

Leighton Park believes its greatest strength is the way the school quietly balances a wonderful sense of calm with an incredible amount of energy and dynamism.

See for yourself at their Open Day on Sat 29 Sept, 10am-12pm.

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Would you like to work from home and have a successful career whilst bringing up your children?

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Stress in primary school children has risen to worrying levels according to school leaders. 78% of school primary teachers in a recent survey reported a general increase in stress and anxiety among primary pupils.

Helping Your Child Cope with Stress

By Claire Winter

A

ccording to the report by the website, Key, a national school support service, 27% of teachers surveyed attributed the increase in anxiety and stress to tests and 37% to social media. Thankfully MPs have finally acknowledged the adverse side-effects of SATs and have proposed eliminating them for seven year olds by 2023. The government has also committed £300 million to improve young people’s mental health. Many educationalists argue that this is too little, far too late. With evidence of self-harm, eating disorders and stress being on the increase in schools, what should we as parents be doing to help our kids feel less stressed?

Create a Healthy Routine Dr. Riccardo Di Cuffa, Director, and GP at Your Doctor (www.your-doctor.co.uk) says that having a healthy routine can help combat stress, particularly when your child is making the transition to a new school or starting the new school year. Here’s what is important:

Get Talking According to a poll run by Time to Change, 55% of families do not openly discuss mental health. Katie Buckingham from the social enterprise, Altruist Enterprises (altruistuk.com) believes families should talk more about their problems. She believes the first step to combating this problem is to simply start a conversation.

Always Eat Breakfast Make sure your child starts the day with a nutritious and healthy meal to set them up for a full day. This will boost their energy and can also improve memory and decrease stress levels.

Here are Katie’s six tips (think APPLES) when you talk to your child: Approach casually: mention well-known celebs like Adele who openly discuss their issues Positivity: avoid negative language Patience: no one likes to be pressured Listen carefully: ask open-ended rather than leading questions Encourage your children to pursue things they love Support: seek extra help if you feel it’s needed.

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Get Enough Sleep Sleep improves our memory, sharpens our attention span and helps us maintain a healthy weight. Avoiding gadgets an hour before bed and doing more relaxing activities such as reading or having a bath can make all the difference to the quality of your child’s sleep.

Check-in with your Child If your child seems stressed, for instance, if they are not sleeping well, not eating well, behaving more emotionally than usual or are less interactive or more clingy, you need to get them to talk and not bottle up their feelings and worries. Set aside a time when you and they are not too tired, like on the walk to school, or after you’ve eaten your evening meal and ask them how they are really feeling.

Exercise Getting regular exercise can reduce stress. Try to walk to school with your child, visit a playground or park on the way home or get out for a walk at the weekend. Encourage your

Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 01235 751 980

child to participate in a sporting or physical activity which will build exercise into their schedule automatically.

Try Mindfulness Starting a new school, the beginning of the new school year and general worry can make all family members feel pressured. Mindfulness and meditation can help children and parents alike. There is a growing body of evidence that mindfulness can help improve concentration and self-awareness, and help us all manage and regulate difficult emotions. You can introduce your child to mindfulness via apps on your phone, like Headspace and Buddifhy.

Buddifhy has released a kids’ section to their app. Rohan Gunatillake, the creator of the app, says taking just ten minutes out to practice mindfulness with your child can help. “With children experiencing more pressure and stimulus than ever before, especially in the school environment, mindfulness is a technique which can be used by families to help them navigate modern life.”

Anxiety and stress can be self-perpetuating, your child is anxious so only focusses on the things in their life that are causing them to feel stressed. Encourage them to have a positive outlook but also allow them to voice their fears. If you help teach your child about resilience and how to cope with the tough times, as well as the good ones, you will be teaching them a great skill for life.

If you are concerned about your child, please make sure you seek help from a medical professional.

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How Thinking Skills Can Equip Your Child for the Future

By Dr David Walters

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hat jobs will be available to my child when the time comes for them to enter the employment market? It’s a worry for every parent. Artificial Intelligence will ‘kill off’ five million jobs by 2020, according to some of the more alarmist headlines. While AI threatens hundreds of thousands of jobs in the retail and administration sectors, top professions such as the law and medicine are also set to be transformed by the ‘march of the robots’.

So how can we help our children to futureproof their skills?

In the world of education, the speed at which the robots are advancing has poured more fuel on to the debate about the value of learning by rote. Are schools, under enormous pressure from government to deliver ever-better exam grades, responding by priming a generation of students simply to remember, recall and regurgitate facts just as the need for those skills is being usurped by Siri and Alexa?

Surely, if we want our children to succeed in a future where so many jobs will be dominated by automation, we should educate them with skills unique to human beings?

So, what are those uniquely human skills, and where can your child learn them? What do we as a species have going for us that the computers don’t - and are unlikely to for at least a while?

One of our most important is cognitive – or thinking – skills.

Back in the 1950s a US psychologist called Benjamin Bloom devised his now-famous hierarchy of thinking. This “pyramid of thought” classifies thinking according to six cognitive levels of complexity. It is increasingly relevant

today. According to Bloom’s hierarchy, the least complex (lower order) thinking skills such as recalling information form the base of the pyramid and the most complex (higher order) skills, such as creativity, sit at the peak.

Put simply, the higher up the pyramid you go, the safer you are from the rising tide of the machines.

Thinking Schools, at which these higher-order skills are taught, can be found all over the world, including in Dubai, Lithuania, Norway, New Zealand, Egypt, Nigeria and Thailand. In Malaysia, the government has looked to introduce the Thinking Schools model in 10,000 public schools.

In Britain, too, there is a new enthusiasm for schools where these skills form the basis of teaching. There is growing recognition that Thinking Schools drive the type of unique thinking skills and intelligent learning behaviours that we all need in an increasingly technological world. Much of education has shifted too far towards pure recall and regurgitation of fact.

But thinking skills are not an education programme; they are an attitude to learning.

In a Thinking School: • all members share a common language of learning; • thinking strategies and tools are used across the curriculum and teachers and students have sound understanding of metacognition; • all students are developing and demonstrating independent and co-operative learning skills; • there are high levels of achievement and an excitement and enthusiasm for learning.

12 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

Typically, in a Thinking School you will see pupils working with ‘map’-like visual tools which help children to understand their thinking processes and ultimately to create, understand, problem-solve and persist with tasks rather than merely regurgitate answers.

Recent research has shown that attending an accredited Thinking School can improve pupils’ GCSE results by as much as a grade above what they were originally predicted.

Accredited Thinking Schools have been rigorously assessed by Exeter University’s Cognitive Education Development Unit to ensure that they meet strict criteria and a list of them can be found at http://socialsciences.exeter.ac.uk/education/th inkingschools/accreditation/accreditedschools Should your child not be at an accredited school, you can still access the Thinking Matters approach to education used by Thinking Schools. Cog-Ignition (www.cogignition.com) works directly with families, and use ‘cognitive coaches’ who work one-to-one to develop the thinking skills, attitudes and interpersonal skills needed to succeed at school and far beyond.

We don’t have to think of machines purely as a threat. They are, after all, our creation. The key is to develop the intelligences and skills to get them to work for us!

Dr David Walters is Deputy Principal of a secondary school in the South West and Honorary Fellow, Exeter University Graduate School of Education. Thinking Matters works with schools all over the country which want to become Thinking Schools. For further information, visit www.thinkingmatters.com

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Independent School Open Days Autumn 2018 BRACKNELL AND ASCOT

READING

SOUTH OF READING

LVS ASCOT (co-ed day and boarding, 4-18yrs), 01344 882 770, www.lvs.ascot-sch.uk Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form OPEN MORNING Sat 15 Sept 9.30am-12pm.

Senior School and Year 10 GCSE INFORMATION MORNING Sat 29 Sept 9.30am-12pm. Sixth Form OPEN MORNING Sat 6 Oct 9.30am-12pm. Reception Class OPEN MORNING Tue 9 Oct 9.30am-12pm LAMBROOK SCHOOL (co-ed day & boarding 3-13yrs), 01344 882 717, www.lambrookschool.co.uk OPEN MORNING Sat 29 Sept 9.30am-12.30pm THE MARIST SCHOOLS, Ascot (independent Catholic girls school, 21/2 – 18yrs), 01344 624 291, www.themaristschools.com Senior School OPEN EVENING Thur 27 Sept 5.30pm-8pm. Sixth Form INFORMATION EVENING Thur 11 Oct 6pm-8pm.

THE ABBEY (independent day school for girls aged 3-18), Junior School 0118 931 3111, Senior School 0118 987 2256, www.theabbey.co.uk Senior School OPEN EVENING Thur 20 Sept 5.30pm, Junior School OPEN MORNING Fri 5 Oct 9.15am, Sixth Form OPEN EVENING Thur 11 Oct 5.30pm, Senior School OPEN MORNING Fri 12 Oct 9.15am HEMDEAN HOUSE SCHOOL (independent nursery and primary school for girls and boys aged 4-11), 0118 947 2590 OPEN MORNINGS Sat 29 Sept 10am-12pm and Wed 7 Nov 9.30am-11.30am READING BLUE COAT SCHOOL (independent boys day school 11-18yrs), 0118 944 1005, www.rbcs.org.uk OPEN MORNING Sat 6 Oct 9.30am-12.30pm. Sixth Form OPEN MORNING Tue 16 Oct 5pm-7.30pm LEIGHTON PARK SCHOOL (independent co-ed day and boarding 11-18yrs), 0118 987 9600, www.leightonpark.com Annual OPEN MORNING Sat 29 Sept 10am-12pm, Weekday OPEN MORNING Tue 9 Oct 10am-12.30pm, Weekday OPEN EVENING Tue 30 Oct 6pm8pm, Year 7 TASTER DAY Thur 8 Nov 8.15am-3.25pm/6pm ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE (independent co-ed day school 3-18yrs), 0118 966 1000, www.sjcr.org.uk Senior OPEN MORNING (Yr 7 and above) Fri 21 Sept 10.30am-12pm Early Years OPEN MORNING Fri 21 Sept 9.30am-11am. Senior OPEN EVENING (Yr 7 and above) Thur 4 Oct 6.30pm-9pm. Early Years OPEN MORNING Tue 16 Oct 9.30am-11am Early Years OPEN MORNING Tue 20 Nov 9.30am-11am. Senior OPEN MORNING (Yr 7 and above) Tue 20 Nov 10.30am-12pm QUEEN ANNE’S CAVERSHAM (independent girl’s day & boarding school 11-18yrs), 0118 918 7300, www.qas.org.uk OPEN MORNINGS Sat 15 Sept 9.30am and Fri 16 Nov 9.30am 11+ TASTER DAYS Tue 18 Sept and Thur 22 Nov 11+ and 13+ Boarding TASTER WEEKENDS Sat 22-Sun 23 Sept and Sat 10-Sun 11 Nov

CROSFIELDS SCHOOL (independent co-ed day school 3-13yrs), 0118 987 1810, www.crosfields.com OPEN MORNING Thur 20 Sept 9am. There is a crèche facility for younger children.

WAVERLEY SCHOOL (independent prep school and day nursery for boys and girls 3 months 11yrs), 0118 973 1121, www.waverleyschool.co.uk OPEN MORNING Fri 12 Oct 9.30am-11.30am.

Head’s welcome speech at 9.45am.

EAGLE HOUSE SCHOOL (independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3-13 in Sandhurst), 01344 772 134, www.eaglehouseschool.com OPEN MORNINGS Sat 6 Oct 10am-12.30pm, Sat 2 Mar 2019 10am12.30pm

OXFORDSHIRE MOULSFORD PREPARATORY SCHOOL (independent boys day & boarding school 413yrs) 01491 651 438, www.moulsford.com OPEN DAY Fri 21 Sept 10am-12pm or 1pm3pm. OPEN MORNING Sat 22 Sept 9am-12pm SHIPLAKE COLLEGE (independent boarding and day school for boys 11-18 and girls 16-18) 0118 940 2455, www.shiplake.org.uk Whole School OPEN MORNING Sat 22 Sept 9.15am-12pm. Sixth Form OPEN MORNING Sat 6 Oct 9.15am-12pm THE ORATORY PREPARATORY SCHOOL (Catholic independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2-13 in Goring Heath) 0118 984 4511, www.oratoryprep.co.uk OPEN MORNING Sat 29 Sept 10am-12.30pm.

CRANFORD HOUSE (independent day school for girls 3-16 and boys 3-11), 01491 651 219, www.cranfordhouse.net Reception TASTER DAY Wed 26 Sept 9.30am-11.30am. Whole School OPEN MORNING Sat 6 Oct 9.30am-12pm familiesonline.co.uk

Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 01235 751 980

WEST BERKSHIRE THE CEDARS SCHOOL (independent co-ed day school 4-11yrs), 0118 971 4251, www.thecedarsschool.co.uk OPEN AFTERNOON Sat 8 Sept 2pm-4pm ST ANDREWS PANGBOURNE (independent co-ed day and boarding school 3-13yrs), 0118 974 4276, www.standrewspangbourne.co.uk OPEN MORNING Fri 5 Oct 9am BROCKHURST & MARLSTON HOUSE SCHOOL, (independent boys (Brockhurst) and girls (Marlston House) day and boarding prep school 3-13), 01635 200 293, www.brockmarl.org.uk OPEN MORNING Sat 13 Oct 10.30am-12pm ELSTREE SCHOOL, (boarding & day school for girls 3-8yrs and boys 3-13yrs), 0118 971 3302, www.elstreeschool.org.uk OPEN MORNING Sat 13 Oct 10am-12pm

WOKINGHAM LUCKLEY HOUSE SCHOOL (independent co-ed day & boarding school 11-18yrs), 0118 978 4175, www.luckleyhouseschool.org OPEN MORNING Sat 29 Sept 9am-12pm REDDAM HOUSE SCHOOL (independent co-ed day & boarding school 3-18yrs), 0118 974 8300, www.reddamhouse.org.uk OPEN MORNING Sat 29 Sept 9.30am, presentation at 10am, tours of the school 10.30am.

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Making the Best of Open Days

This autumn, state and independent schools will be opening their doors to prospective pupils and their parents to give them a flavour of life at their school. Claire Winter has the lowdown on how to get the best out of these Open Days and tours.

What is an Open Day? School open days help you decide what school you want your child to go to. During an open day, prospective parents are shown around the school, often on a school day, to give them a flavour of the working life of the school and the school environment. You will be able to see the children in lessons and talk to the teachers and pupils.

Sometimes pupils are given the task of showing parents around the school. This is a great opportunity to ask them how they enjoy being at the school. How settled, relaxed and confident these children are can give you an idea of how happy the children are there.

Usually, the head teacher or a senior member of staff also gives a talk which includes a general overview of the school and its values and ethos. This is often followed by a presentation by the head of admissions or the relevant head of the section of the school (for example, head of reception, or sixth form).

When Are They Held?

State schools generally hold Open Days in September and October aimed at children and families looking for a school place for the following year. It’s a good idea to start looking a year in advance. So if your child is starting school, start looking at schools when they are three. If you are looking for secondary school places, start looking in year 5 (when your child is nine or ten). You can then revisit the schools

you are most interested in with your child the following year.

Independent schools often hold Open Days throughout the Autumn and Spring terms. They can have waiting lists for Reception-age children or require children to take a schoolspecific 7+ or 11+ exam to gain a place, so you need find out the criteria for entry to the school and visit well in advance.

How are Open Days Organised?

Schools organise Open Evenings as well as days to allow working parents to visit the school too. Some schools (mainly independent) hold Open Days on a Saturday.

All schools put a lot of care and organisation into the events and they all want to show their school in the best light. However, there may be a lot of people attending so do be sure to turn up on time and follow the school’s directions during the event.

If, after the all your initial visits, you are still undecided, go back and visit the schools on your shortlist again during a normal working day.

Finally, in making your decision, don’t be afraid to trust your instincts; you know your child and you are best placed to ascertain what is right for them. If your child is older, do take account of their preferences too and include them in the decision making process. The best decision will undoubtedly be the one you all agree.

14 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

Tips for Visiting an Open Day

n Take your child with you. There is no point in falling in love with a school only to find your child does not want to go there. n What is your general feeling about the school? Your gut reaction is very important. n Do the pupils look happy and engaged? n Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Make sure you ask the pupils what they think of the school. n Don’t make decisions on individual teachers. They often move on and large departments have a variety of teachers that will rotate every year to teach your child a particular subject. n If your child has a particular interest in a subject, make sure you visit the department and look at the kind of work they will be doing. n What extra-curricular activities do they have? Are there clubs that will engage your child and allow them to pursue a broad range of interests? n While exam results aren’t everything, every parent wants their child to do well.

Academic performance is a top priority for many families. It’s a good idea to see how the school is performing compared to other local schools, using exam league tables and Ofsted reports.

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Annual Open Morning Sat 29 th Sept 2018 10am – 12pm

Weekday Open Morning Tues 9 th Oct 2018 10.30am – 2.30pm

Weekday Open Evening Tues 30 th Oct 2018 6pm – 8pm

Taster Day for Year 7 Entry 8 th Nov 2018 8.15am – 3.25pm / 6pm

0118 987 9608 www.leightonpark.com/visitus 11-18 years · independent · co-educational · day/boarding

SIMPLICITY TRUTH RESPECT INTEGRITY PEACE EQUALITY SUSTAINABILITY

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Independent or State Education for your Child?

Olivia Malaure talks to Frances Delaney, a parent whose child has experienced both types of school.

I

f you are fortunate enough to be able to choose where your child will go to school, then it might help to look at the bigger picture and leap forward twelve years.

Recent statistics show that students from state schools out-perform students from independent (private) schools at university.

However, before you allocate your tuition fees to more leisurely pursuits, consider that these statistics also show that students from independent schools are more likely to gain a place at university in the first place.

Right now, the idea of your young child reaching university age may seem unimaginable, but it pays to do your research early. And, when you do, it’s hard to ignore the fiery discussion about the moral, financial and practical issues that catapult from any search engine as you try to weigh up the ‘pros and cons’ of state versus independent education.

I spoke to Frances Delaney, a parent who made the decision to move her daughter from a state to an independent school at the beginning of Year 6.

Why did you make this change?

Firstly, I wasn’t confident that my daughter would get into our preferred, local state secondary school. I also wanted her to attend a school with an integrated sixth form, rather than have to transition to a large college later

on. Crucially though, my daughter’s teacher, who I really respected, suggested she was playing up in class and was possibly bored because in Year 5, along with a number of other children, she’d actually reached Year 6 grades. I wanted my child to reach her full potential but her teacher couldn’t help further as her priority had to be improving the grades of those children who were under-performing.

Was it an easy decision?

No actually, it was very difficult. My partner was politically opposed to private education - we both went to state schools. But we’d had the experience of our elder son completing his education at a large state college where he just didn’t “fit in.” He felt he didn’t do as well as he could have done at a smaller private school. It took my partner a lot of convincing, but I wanted our daughter to have the best educational experience possible and my gut feeling was that she would perform better at an independent school. We were in a position where we could afford the fees and so we decided to move her.

Looking back, do you feel you made the right decision?

That’s a difficult question and I don’t have a definitive answer. She is happy and confident and doing well at school, so that is very

16 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

positive. She is still in touch with her friends from state school and it seems they’re also happy and doing well too, so it’s hard to tell what would have happened had she remained in the state sector.

Has your daughter experienced more academic pressure at her new school?

Yes, and the pressure comes from both parents and the school. But, truthfully, I’m paying to ensure that she reaches her full potential and so pressure is part of that. My daughter thrives in that type of environment but I can see that it could be stressful for children who aren’t meeting expectations, or who excel in one particular subject area rather than being an academic all-rounder. Having said I would imagine that children in good state secondary schools are also under a lot of academic pressure too.

At my daughter’s school, there is not an automatic entry into the sixth form so there is constant discussion about what she can achieve and how she will achieve it. Obviously, this isn’t the case in all independent schools.

Do you have any advice for parents who are having difficulty making a decision between a good local state school and a private school?

Look at the environment in which your child thrives and explore how they learn. Think about how they would deal with regular tests and exams. If they are at senior school level, find out what subjects are on offer in the sixth form, and if they are in line with your child’s interests. Some state schools offer a wider variety of subjects than some smaller private schools with limited more resources. The advantage of an independent primary school is that you are training your child for the private system and this training has its advantages. In my opinion the kids who are attending independent schools are not better or brighter, just more prepared.

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Educating your Child about Social Media

By Claire Winter

D

uring the primary school years, there is a tendency to want to bury your head in the sand when it comes to the issues and challenges of mobile phone use and social media. If you have children under 10, you may feel you don’t need to pay attention to this yet.

However, by Years 5 and 6 many of your children’s peers will start to actively use apps like Snapchat and Instagram and you need to start to understand how to help your child navigate the online world.

The legal age for children to use social sites like Facebook, Instagram, Musical.ly and Snapchat is 13. But, according to a report by the Children’s Commissioner, around 75% of 10 to 12 year olds have a social media account. The study makes sobering reading stating that children face a ‘cliff edge’ when it comes to using social media when they go to secondary school.

Getting comments and likes on their posts becomes a priority, especially when their whole class are now using mobile devices and have social media accounts. They become more concerned about how they look and feel anxious about staying connected at all times.

FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) becomes much more prevalent.

Class WhatsApp groups and the like mean that whilst your child has their phone they are connected to their peers 24/7. This is the equivalent of having the “noise” of the playground with them at all times. It makes it impossible for children to leave behind the social interactions of the day, including any

negative ones, and switch off emotionally. It means your child is at risk of being negatively impacted by any hurtful throwaway remarks or comments made by their peers which may not even have been intended to be hurtful. Social posts without accompanying tone, facial expression and gesture are more likely to be interpreted negatively or the meaning questioned than words delivered face to face.

In short, you need to set limits on social interaction if your child is going to remain sane and grounded.

Here are some things to consider before your child becomes active on social:

n Explore the privacy settings on all the apps your children will use and explain how they work. Make sure their accounts aren’t public and are only available to their friends.

Explain they should only friend or follow people they know on all their social media accounts. n Stress that it is crucial for them to tell you if someone they don’t know is trying to contact them. Explain not everyone is who they say they are online. n Remind them they can block people they don’t know or users who are giving them unwanted attention (including their peers).

There are many things your children should not see on the internet. Ensure your children feel comfortable talking about what they have seen online or things that have been sent to them.

Conversations need to be open and frank because sexual and violent content can only ever be a few clicks away.

18 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

n Follow them or add them as a friend on your social accounts, so you can see what they are doing. Many parents make this a condition before allowing their child to have an app, especially if they are younger. n If you are not on the social platform, explain that you will want access to their account to see what they are doing (actually follow through on this). Some people may feel this is an intrusion on their privacy, but my personal view is that young teenagers need some supervision. n Tell them not to share private information about themselves, like where they go to school or their address. n Remind them not to post, snap or chat about something that they don’t want to be shared or seen by a wider audience. Remind them pictures can be captured by screenshot and shared with people they don’t know. n Tell them that bullying should not be tolerated in real life or cyberspace. If they are being bullied or see someone being bullied, tell them to tell a trusted adult. n Limit how long they can be online. Put the Wi-Fi on a timer or set a daily limit of time for how long they can be on their device.

As parents, we need to lead by example, so limit the time you spend on social platforms when you are with your child. Accept that your child is bound to make some mistakes on social media. The key is to have an open dialogue with them about it so they can ask for advice if things go wrong and learn how to create healthy boundaries around their online activities.

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CO-EDOOL

R SCH SENIO H FORM & SIXT

020 SEPT 2

OpenMorning Saturday, 6 October 9:30am-12:00pm

NO APPOINTMENT NEEDED

Reception Taster Day 26 September 9:30am -11:30am Cranford House is situated in Moulsford on the Oxfordshire and Berkshire border and operates an extensive school minibus network throughout both counties. www.cranfordhouse.net

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Families Thames Valley West • 19

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The Benefits of Boredom

By Gill Sims

I

’m bored!’ How many times do we hear those words as parents?

I have lost count of the number of times my precious moppets have whined over the years that they are ‘bored’ as they demanded some form of entertainment be provided (or at the very least that their electronics be returned after being confiscated yet again). But being bored is good for children; it’s part of childhood; it’s the catalyst to spark their imagination; it’s the pathway to creative play and to finding solutions to problems themselves.

Between work commitments

and school, our time with our children is often limited and, of course, we want that time to be ‘quality time.’ However, by providing a constant carousel of activities, entertainments and days out, we are failing to teach them how to amuse themselves, to develop inner resources and be happy with their own company. It’s natural to want our children to have fun, enjoy their childhood and have happy memories to look back on, but in our quest to do that, sometimes we forget that some of their best memories will come from the things they learned,

20 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

discovered, explored and sometimes struggled with themselves, not the things that were handed to them on a plate.

When my children have friends over, it’s always obvious which ones are used to boredom, and which ones are accustomed to a constant programme of events. My usual response to the plaintive wail of ‘I’m bored’ is ‘Only boring people get bored’ to which my children roll their eyes and huff at me. The children whose parents are like me and allow them to be bored, soon start inventing games, building worlds and coming up with things to do, whereas those children who are used to being given a series of suggestions and things to do, struggle with the concept of being told to just ‘go and play!’ After a little while though, when no entertainment is forthcoming, most of them do get the hang of making up games, and using their imagination, instead of being directed through a series of crafts or activities. In some cases, they even declare being handed an old blanket and told to go and make a den, to have been ‘the best fun ever!’

My conviction about the benefits of boredom partly stems from fairly lazy parenting. I’m just not one those parents who enjoy spending hours making playdough creations (in fact, although my children have outgrown playdough, the very thought of the texture still makes

me shudder). So I always encouraged my children to play independently, whether that was building Lego, mooching round the garden, or spending hours sitting in a box that was variously a castle, a racing car and an aeroplane. They did have real toys too, but for some reason empty boxes were always extremely popular - perhaps my kids are part cat? But think back to your own childhood. How much of it was spent with your parents organising you into activities, undertaking craft projects with you, or taking you on days out, and how much of it was spent complaining you were bored and being told to go and read a book, or find something to do? Mine certainly involved a great deal of boredom, that in turn led to imaginary worlds and people and that perhaps then led to me to become a writer. Without a healthy dose of boredom, there is no incentive to learn to think for ourselves, or to change things to alleviate boredom!

Of course, I’m not suggesting that children don’t deserve some fun, special treats and parental input. Just that sometimes, it doesn’t hurt them to be bored.

There are enough things we are made to feel guilty about as parents and our children occasionally being bored should definitely not be one of them!

If your child complains frequently of boredom, fill a jar with paper slips with tedious tasks written on them, like ‘tidy your room,’ ‘do the dusting,’ ‘weed a flowerbed,’ ‘sort out your sock drawer.” Any time someone complains or boredom, they have to pick a slip out randomly and complete the chore on it. When faced with this, it was astonishing how quickly my children found themselves something more interesting to do!

So, embrace boredom! Your cherubs will thank you for it one day. And even if they don’t appreciate what you are so selflessly doing for them now, you might get a tidy house with impeccably ordered sock drawers out of it!

Gill Sims is the bestselling author of Why Mummy Drinks, which spent a staggering 30 weeks in the Sunday Times Top 10 and was the bestselling debut hardback novel of 2017. Her second novel Why Mummy Swears was published in Hardback by HarperCollins in July 2018 RRP £12.99. familiesonline.co.uk

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What’s On September-October 2018 LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

FIREWORKS!

BEALE PARK Lower Basildon, Reading, RG9 9NW, 0844 826 1761, www.bealepark.co.uk 24 Oct BUILD A BAT BOX THIS HALLOWEEN

Fancy going a bit batty? Why not pop down to the park on Wednesday 24th October between 10.30am and 12.30pm, when the park will be running a ‘Build a Bat Box’ workshop. For just £5, you will be able to build your own bat box to take home with you.

Normal park admission charges apply.

20,21,26 & 27 Oct BRICK OR TREAT at Legoland Windsor. This October half term, get your little ones over to the Legoland Windsor Resport and get into the Halloween spirit at the amazing Brick or Treat event! With fun spooktacular activities and over 55 rides, live shows and attractions, the Legoland Windsor Resort is an awesome day out for all the family. Book online now before those naughty LEGO ghosts beat you to it!

3 Nov HALLOWEEN RACEDAY AND FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR at Ascot

Racecourse, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7JX, 0844 346 3000, www.ascot.co.uk Halloween Family Raceday and Fireworks Spectacular, Sat 3 Nov from 10.45am. Gather friends and family to enjoy Ascot’s first meeting of the jumps season, featuring the £100,000 Gold Cup Chase over three miles. Racing is followed by one of the region’s largest Fireworks Spectaculars and being Halloween be prepared for a few surprises too! The Plaza Lawns will come alive throughout the afternoon with free fairground rides until 4pm. £1 per ride thereafter. All proceeds go to local charities.

The day is a designated family day and is free for children under 18.

3 Nov READING LIONS FIREWORK DISPLAY

at Prudential Ibis Club, Scours Lane, Reading, RG30 6AY, www.readinglions.org.uk Free parking, suitable for mobility chairs, funfair, face painting, balloon artist, choir, refreshments, ice cream van, beer tent.

WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK Odiham Road, Riseley, Reading, RG7 1SP, 0118 932 6444, www.wellington-country-park.co.uk 20-28 Oct HALLO’WELLY’WEEN

Join in the fun during a spooktacular week at Wellington Country Park. Please note that showtimes vary throughout the week.

20-24 Oct:

10.30am 11.00am 12.00pm 1.00pm 2.30pm 3.00pm

Pete’za’s Slightly Spook Show Story Time with Penelope Pumpkin Big Foot Show New Magic & Mischief Show New ‘What’s In The Box? Supersized Monster Story Time Big Foot and Pete’za Show

25-28 Oct:

10.30am Pete’za’s Slightly Spook Show 11.00am New Alien Panto 12.00pm Big Foot Show 1.00pm New Alien Panto 2.30pm Big Foot and Pete’za Show 3.15pm Halloween Disco…lncluding Balloon Drop Plus Halloween Gifts, Slightly Spooky Train Rides and Pumpkin Carving

BUCKLEBURY FARM PARK Bucklebury, nr Reading, RG7 6RR, 0118 971 4002, www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk

AUTUMN DEER SAFARIS Make an early start for one of the highlights of the year in the deer park, the Autumn rut. Hear the stags roaring and glimpse the clash of antlers through the morning mist. The early start and fresh air will make that full English breakfast taste all the better! Deer Safaris take place on selected dates, please see the website for more details or email bookings@buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk

3 Nov FRIENDS OF PANGBOURNE PRIMARY

20-28 Oct HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS

SCHOOL FIREWORKS DISPLAY at Pangbourne

Enjoy the build up to Halloween this half term.

There’s the popular Giant Pumpkin Hunt and Haunted House (£1 entry in addition to farm park ticket price), plus daily facepainting to make you look simply spooktastic.

Primary School Field, Kennedy Drive, RG8. A wonderful evening of entertainment including a 20 minute firework display, huge bonfire, BBQ, bar with West Berkshire Beer, hot drinks, chocolate tombola and much more. Gates open 5.30pm, display at 7pm approx.

4 Nov STOKE PLACE BONFIRE NIGHT at Stoke

Place, SL2 4HT. Stoke Place will host its annual sell-out Bonfire Night celebration on Sun 4 Nov featuring dazzling fireworks set to music from classic Disney movies. Beautiful parkland, the lake and the Grade II mansion house combine to make a magical backdrop to a memorable evening. Hot baked potatoes and delicious drinks from 5pm, fireworks start at 6pm. Adults £10, under 12’s free.

4 Nov FIREWORKS AT ROYAL WINDSOR RACECOURSE, SL4 5EZ. Enjoy a fireworks

display set to the theme of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with Oompa Loompas distributing treats throughout the evening and a variety of Willy Wonka wonders to enjoy. All attendees even get a Golden Ticket to enter a special prize draw where five lucky winners will each receive £500 and a year’s worth of chocolate and sweets from the event sponsors, Nestle. £12 Adults, £6 Children, under 5’s free.

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creating their own Nick Sharratt inspired picture!

Young visitors, and those that are young at heart, will enjoy dressing up in a selection of whacky costumes, including a mermaid’s tale, some very fancy pants and a pineapple.

THE LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 4000, www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre

There are over 90 hands-on science activities for children of all ages to enjoy at The Look Out Discovery Centre. You can launch a hydrogen rocket, play with boats in the indoor stream or build a house with your friends. Activities and exhibits are organised in ‘zones’ which correspond with what your child may be learning about in school: Forces & Movement, Body & Perception, Light & Colour, Woodland & Water and Build It where you can use the rubble chute, wheelbarrows, design a house or drive a dumper truck. Open daily from 10am-5pm. Extra shows run at The Look Out on weekends and school holidays.

5 Sep-28 Oct SPLASH, BUBBLES AND BALLOONS

This bubbling and explosive show is not to be missed!

Can we really make water disappear? Can we make a fire balloon? Come and find out in this show – it’s a gas! Show times at weekends and school holidays: 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3.15pm. Cost £1.95 in addition to entry price. No need to book – just buy show tickets at reception on the day. Suitable for primaryschool aged children 12-13 Sep & 9-10 Oct TODDLER DAYS

Toddler Days at The Look Out are especially for the under 5’s. There are no school bookings and extra activities are laid on such as arts & craft, storytelling and face or hand painting. 10am-4pm. No need to book – just turn up! Theme for 12-13 Sept is Sticky Slime and 9-10 Oct is At The Seaside

ODDS FARM PARK Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP10 0LX (M40 J2), 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk 3-30 Sept RARE BREEDS MONTH

Learn and celebrate all about Odds Farm’s rare breeds by completing the special trail to earn a treat.

20-28 Sept HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL

Odds Farm’s crafty Trick or Treat Walk is back in truly spooktacular style. Enjoy Halloween entertainment, fancy dress parades, and pick up your own pumpkin to carve and take home.

NATIONAL TRUST

RIVER & ROWING MUSEUM

THE VYNE, Vyne Road, Sherborne St John,

Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames, RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk Until 16 Sept PIRATES, PANTS AND WELLYPHANTS

Basingstoke, RG24 9HL, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne 20 Oct-4 Nov HALLOWEEN RIDDLE TRAIL (AGES

– THE ILLUSTRATED WORLD OF NICK SHARRATT

8+) All is not as it seems in this topsy-turvy challenge.

Collect your trail sheet from Visitor Reception and look out for the lines of a riddle scattered across the grounds. On this brain-teasing trail, you’ll find all the lines of the riddle are written in reverse. You’ll need to use the mirrors at each point to read each numbered line and add these blank spaces onto your trail sheet.

Once you’ve found and assembled the whole riddle, see if you can work out the secret answer! Trail sheets £2, normal admission charges apply. 10am5pm 20 Oct-4 Nov HALLOWEEN PUMPKIN TRAIL (AGES 0-7) Young witches, ghosts and all manner of Halloween spooks can wander The Vyne’s grounds on this family trail. Collect your £2 activity sheet from Visitor Reception and hunt for pumpkins in the grounds. Grown ups can lend their young adventurers a hand by writing the letter that appears on each pumpkin on the trail sheet and helping to unscramble the spooky word. Activity sheets £2, normal admission charges apply. 10am-5pm

Nick Sharratt, the man behind the instantly recognisable illustrations for Jacqueline Wilson’s Tracy Beaker books, is the subject of a new colourful, humorous and hands-on exhibition. ‘Pirates, Pants and Wellyphants,’ explores Nick Sharratt’s passion for drawing, from childhood to his current status as an internationally renowned illustrator and author. The exhibition features many of the well-known characters that Nick has illustrated, including Tracy Beaker, Daisy, Hetty Feather and Pirate Pete, as well as a host of animals, and vast quantities of food and clothing! Visitors can immerse themselves in Nick’s world, find out about his childhood and what inspired him to become an illustrator, and meet a host of the characters that he has created throughout his career.

Families can enjoy visiting a recreation of Nick’s studio and have a go at drawing a selection of his characters using a light box. A touch screen interactive enables you to create your own digital ‘Sharracter’ and a wipe clean wall is available for everyone to have a go at

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Days Out What’s On ONGOING EVENTS Weekly FRIDAY FLEDGLINGS at The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL), University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.merl.reading.ac.uk

A weekly outdoor session for the under 3’s in the fantastic urban garden at the MERL. Discover the benefits of outdoor learning led by Charlotte, a local teacher and Level 3 Forest Leader. Join in outdoor activities inspired by the themes and collections in the museum. Enjoy outdoor play and explore the natural environment. Each session involves story-telling, craft activities and singing. £3 per child (includes a snack and a drink). Children and adults must dress for the weather (there are a small number of children’s wellies and waterproofs to borrow if necessary). 10am11.30am, term time only.

Weekly BIG SCREAM CLUB, TODDLER TIME AND KIDS CLUBS at The Regal Picturehouse, Boroma Way, Henley, RG9 2BZ, 0871 902 5738, www.picturehouses.com

Big Scream Club runs on Fridays at 11am exclusively for parents with babies under 1 year so you can catch up on the latest film releases. Toddler Time on Tuesdays at 11am offers special 30 minute shows designed to introduce little ones to the big screen, followed by fun activities. For the older ones there’s Kids Club every Saturday showing a classic film at 11am plus pre-screening activities.

Weekly TALES FOR TOTS – STORY TIME FOR THE UNDER 5’S at Reading Museum, The Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QU, 0118 937 3400, www.readingmuseum.org

Enjoy a story using objects from the Museum’s collection. Every Wednesday at 10.30am-11.30am in The Green Space or Window Gallery. Just drop in.

FREE. Weekly FAMILY ACTIVITY TASTER SESSIONS at Dinton Activity Centre, Dinton Pastures Country Park, Sandford Lane, Reading, RG10 0SU, www.dintonpastures.co.uk

Give it a go – taster sessions give everyone a chance to try something new at an affordable price. From £20 per person or £36 for two people. Booking essential.

Weekly RHYME AND SHINE at The Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 521 8218, www.cornexchangenew.com

Suitable for parents with babies 2 and under. A relaxed

singing session with a range of songs, rhymes and rhythms in a fun and relaxed environment. Singing with your child is a great way to encourage their language development, whilst actions help develop motor skills. Meet other parents too! Price includes a hot drink from the Corn Exchange Kitchen & Bar. 10.15-11am, £3.50 per session.

Weekly RHYME TIME at Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ

Rhyme Time every Monday (except bank holidays), Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 10.30am-11am.

No need to book, just drop in. FREE. Weekly BOARD GAME CLUB at Southcote Library, Southcote Lane, Reading, RG30 3BA, 0118 901 5109

A weekly free board game club for ages 9-12 from 4.10pm-5.10pm.

Weekly LEGO CLUB at Winnersh Library, The Forest School, Robin Hood Lane, Winnersh, RG41 5ND, 0118 979 7519, www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries

Every Thursday during term time for children aged 510 years. 4pm-4.45pm, 50p.

Weekly STORY TIME at Caversham Library, Church Street, Caversham, RG4 8AU

An experienced storyteller will bring stories to life for the Under 5’s every week during term time. Sessions must be booked in advance via the library.

Weekly TODDLER CRAFT at Southcote Library, Southcote Lane, RG30 3BA, 0118 901 5109

A free craft session for the Under 5’s from 11am11.30am Monthly NATURE EXPLORERS at The Nature Discovery Centre, Muddy Lane, Lower Way, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG18 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.bbowt.org.uk

A monthly parent and toddler group with a difference.

A great opportunity each month for you and your preschool child to have fun in natural surroundings. Each session includes activities such as bug-hunting, mudpainting and mask-making. Tea, biscuits and mud provided! Booking essential and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Please dress for the weather. £5.

Monthly NATURE TOTS DIDCOT at Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre, nr. Didcot, OX14 4TE, www.bbowt.org.uk

An opportunity each month for you and your preschool little one to interact with and learn from nature.

Come along for an outdoor nature play, games, stories and craft on the wild and wonderful nature reserve.

Booking essential. Dress for the weather. 9.30am11.30am, £5.

Monthly STAY AND PLAY at The Abbey Nursery, 30 Christchurch Road, Reading, RG2 7AR, 0118 931 3111, www.theabbey.co.uk

Held on the first Thursday of every month, The Abbey Nursery’s FREE Stay and Play sessions offer you and your toddler a safe and stimulating environment to make friends and to enjoy learning through play.

Inspiring creative and imaginative play and encouraging your child’s natural curiosity is central to The Abbey’s learning ethos. Set in the University area of central Reading, children can explore the nursery garden and play with a range of toys, dressing up, science and role play equipment as well as take part in activities such as art, cooking, music and movement as they find out about the theme for the month.

Refreshments are provided for the children and parents/carers. Limited places, email stayandplay@theabbey.co.uk or call 0118 987 2256 for more information.

Daily until 30 Sep THE LOST TAPESTRIES TRAIL, CHILDREN’S TUDOR ANIMALS TRAIL, NATURE THEMED GEOCACHING, BIRD WATCHING AND BRASS RUBBING at The Vyne, near Basingstoke, RG24 9HL, 01256 883 858, www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Family trail to help recover and fit together jigsaw pieces of oriental tapestries hidden across the grounds, or see if you can spot the animals that played an important part in Tudor life. Suggested donation £1 per trail sheet. In the woods, intrepid explorers can use their own geocaching units to hunt for themed geocaches, or have a go at making your own den out of loose branches from the woodland floor. Try some bird spotting and tune into The Vyne’s birdlife from a purpose-built hide.

SEPTEMBER

5, 12,19 & 26 Sep VISIT WEDNESDAYS at The UK Wolf Conservation Trust, Butlers Farm, Beenham, RG7 5NT, 0118 971 3330, www.ukwct.org.uk

The Wolf Conservation Trust is open to the public on Wednesdays from 11am-4pm. Volunteers will help you learn more about the wolves and there are regular talks from the keepers throughout the day.

The raised platform overlooking the lower enclosure affords great opportunities to photograph the wolves. At 2pm it’s feeding time and afterwards at the Education Centre you can find out about the centre’s work with overseas projects aimed at keeping wolves in the wild. £8 per adult £5 children and OAP’s, under 3’s free.

Thames Valley West

Distributers Wanted!

Do you have a couple of spare days every other month, your own car, and want to earn some extra cash?

You’ll be distributing our magazine every other month for 1-3 days depending on the route.

Families Magazine Thames Valley West is looking for trustworthy, reliable and self motivated people to join their team, delivering our magazine to locations around Reading, Henley, Sandhurst and West Berkshire.

Good rates of pay!

Call Lucy on 07789 485 372 or email editor@familiestvw.co.uk to find out more.

22 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

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What’s On 6 Sep TODDLER PLAY TIME at Whitley Library, Northumberland Avenue, Reading, RG2 7PX, 0118 901 5115 A free play session especially for

toddlers. 10am-11am.

6-16 Sep READING ON THAMES FESTIVAL, along the River Thames and throughout Reading, www.readingonthamesfestival.org

Back for its second year, Reading-on-Thames festival will take place along Reading’s waterways. A celebration of art and culture will include events centred around drama, music and creativity. In its first year the festival saw a Lego Brick Building event at Broad Street Mall and arts company Walk the Plank putting on a stunning display including fireworks and lights.

8 Sep THE HENLEY SHOW at Greenlands Farm, Dairy Lane, Hambledon, RG9 3AS www.thehenleyshow.co.uk

Lots of fun for all the family including stalls, food & drink, sheepdog trials, plough racing. Gates open from 8.30am. Children under 16 free with a paying adult. Book tickets online.

14-16 Sep THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE at The Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 521 8218, www.cornexchangenew.com

Join a tiny snail on her trip around the world in Tall Stories’ magical musical production. Inspired by the bestselling book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, come and follow the tiny snail’s exciting journey as seen through the eyes of an adventurous girl and her seafaring father. Storytelling, live music and lots of laughs from the Olivier Award nominated company that brought you The Gruffalo live on stage.

15 Sep SONNING VILLAGE SHOW at Sonning CofE Primary School, Liguage Way, Sonning on Thames, RG4 6XF

This annual event showcases the finest crafts and the

biggest and best produce in the area, including fruit, vegetable, yummy cakes, jams and chutneys with prizes for the winning entrants. There are also a variety of stalls from people in the local community including craft stalls, fete games like Hook a Duck and Lucky Dip, along with a tombola. 2pm-5pm.

exciting camping trip to the woods with her school friends including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. With lunch boxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and fiends are excited about their outdoor adventure full of games, laughter and music. Adults £18, Children £16, Family of 4 £64.00

15 Sep SATURDAY SOCIAL at Whitley Library, Northumberland Avenue, Reading, RG2 7PX, 0118 901 5115

29 Sep THE MARVELLOUS PICNIC at Missenden Abbey, Great Missenden, Bucks, HP16 0BD, 01494 866 811, www.missendenabbey.co.uk

Craft activities for children and adults. Free tea and coffee. £1 charge for craft materials. 10am-1pm.

Help to support Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity at Missenden Abbey’s Marvellous Picnic.

Enjoy a lovely picnic in the Abbey’s beautiful ground with plenty of activities for all the family, including storytelling with puppets, colouring corner, bouncy castle, face painting, cake bake off, charity raffle and Pimm’s bar. Adults £10, Under 12’s £5. Price includes a picnic box for each person. 12pm-4pm. Book tickets online at the Missenden Abbey website.

15-16 Sep THE ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE SHOW at Newbury Showground, RG18 9QZ

The biggest new addition this year will be allowing dogs into the show. And a brand new Dog Zone has been created near the Country Area where there will be lots of have-a-go activities, shows and dogrelated trade stands. Two new main attractions will be introduced this year: a commemoration of 100 years since the end of the First World War will play a huge part in the Show, with a demonstration of advancements in agricultural technology, displaying steam engines and vintage tractors right through to the modern day machinery. A very moving tribute.

Secondly, the amazing Bolddog Lings motorbike stunt team will be returning to the show in spectacular style, with their flips, jumps and tricks using the largest landing ramp in the world! A number of changes have been made to make visitors’ day more enjoyable. The ever popular Food Marquee will have a new home, at the far side of the Showground, with just as many tempting treats to tantalise those tastebuds.

15-16 Sep PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURE at The Hexagon Theatre, Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA, www.readingarts.com/hexagon

Peppa Pig and Friends are back in the brand new live show. Join Peppa as she gets ready to go on an

29 Sep READING TOWN MEAL at Forbury Gardens, Reading, RG1 3HW, www.readingtownmeal.org.uk

Reading Town Meal is a truly community-powered event. First held in 2011, so far there have been five fantastic ‘picnics in the park’ celebrating the delicious fruit and veg that is grown in Reading. All the food is donated by the wonderful growers and allotment holders around Reading, cooked by Reading College students and served free in Forbury Gardens. The meal is accompanied by music from local bands, family fun activities, plus the chance to find out more about growing your food and what local community and sustainability groups are doing in Reading.

12pm-4pm.

29 Sep-2 Oct HENLEY LITERARY FESTIVAL at various locations throughout Henley on Thames.

01491 575 948, www.henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk

Some of the UK’s most respected writers will be joined by top speakers from comedy, cookery, politics, music and more with over 150 activities for adults and children.

Coming soon to South Hill Park Arts Centre A SOUTH HILL PARK PRODUCTION

A SOUTH HILL PARK PRODUCTION Family Ticket Offer

The perfect mix of joy and tragedy

Commemorating 100 years since the end of the First World War

THE GUARDIAN ON PRIVATE PEACEFUL (BOOK REVIEW 2015)

FROM THE AWARD-WINNING WRITER OF WAR HORSE

PRIVATE PEACEFUL

BY MICHAEL MORPURGO STAGE ADAPTATION BY SIMON READE

Family tickets · only £14.25 each Up to 6 people, max 2 adults. Except Fri & Sat 7.15pm This amateur production of Private Peaceful (ensemble version) is presented by special arrangement with Samuel French Ltd

Wed 10 – Sun 14 Oct 2018

Fri 30 Nov - Sat 5 Jan

BOX OFFICE 01344 484123 · SOUTHHILLPARK.ORG.UK @SOUTHHILLPARK

/SOUTHHILLPARKARTSCENTRE

South Hill Park Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell RG12 7PA

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Families Thames Valley West • 23

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OCTOBER 3 Oct SEN SOFT PLAY SESSION at Eddie Catz, Northway House, York Road, Newbury, RG14 7NF, 020 3475 5268, www.eddiecatz.com

An early evening soft play session for all special needs children and their siblings. 6pm-7.30pm 3,4 & 6 Oct STARMAKER THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS ‘IN THE HEIGHTS’ at South Hill Park Theatre and Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk

A rare opportunity to see Lin-Manuel Miranda’s awardwinning musical performed with a live band by Berkshire’s premier youth theatre company. In The Heights explores the challenges and dreams of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights to a soundtrack of hip-hop, soul and Latin grooves.

Vibrant, funny and life affirming! 3 & 4 Oct at 7.15pm, 6 Oct at 3pm & 7.45pm. £21, Concessions £19, Members £19, Schools £12.

4 Oct BLAZE’S BUDDIES at West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, 01635 519 562, www.westberkshireheritage.org/west-berkshiremuseum

Come and meet Blaze, the museum dragon, and join in with an action poem, story, simple craft, treasure hunt and sing-along! Held in the museum’s comfortable and child-friendly learning space, Blaze’s Buddies will encourage your child to take part in fun and interactive arts and crafts. The session closes with a hunt to find a museum object or sing along. The theme for this session is music. 11am-11.30am.

6-7 Oct DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS at Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, Oxon, OX11 7NJ, 01235 817 220, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk

Thomas is a regular visitor to Didcot Railway Centre where he is welcomed by his friends the Great Western Engines. Enjoy rides all day and as often as you wish. Thomas runs on the Branch Line and his friends are running on the Main Line. During the day, colourful Professor Crump will be clowning around the centre and Twistina and Twistopher will be balloon modelling. Thomas story readings will be held hourly from 11am in the Imagination Station. Don’t forget to collect your souvenir ‘Day out With Thomas’ certificate signed by The Fat Controller. A wide range of souvenirs are available in the Thomas Shop and there is a Refreshment Room serving lunches, snacks and drinks. There is also a picnic area where you can sit and watch the trains go by. Adults £15, Child 2-5 yrs £11, 60+ £13, Family £44.

6 Oct UNDER THE MICROSCOPE at West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, 01635 519 562, www.westberkshireheritage.org/west-berkshiremuseum

What can you see under the microscope? Local Wildlife Trust experts will be on hand with microscopes and an array of remarkable mini-beasts to view up close. Learn about this fascinating essential world happening unseen all around us. Drop in any time between 10am and 1pm for this FREE event.

Suitable for all ages.

19 Oct JAMIE RAVEN at The Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 521 8218, www.cornexchangenew.com

The Britain’s Got Talent runner up brings his mystifying new show to Newbury. Star of the West End hit The Illusionists, Jamie will take audiences on a journey through the magical world in which he operates.

Together you’ll explore the answer to how and why magic works, and what it means to so many different types of people. Get ready to laugh as much as you are mystified, suspend your belief in all you thought was possible and watch as Jamie Raven shows you exactly how for 25 years he has been ‘making magic.’

7.45pm, £20, Concessions £18.

22 Oct HALLOWEEN WREATH MAKING at Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 279 279, www.westberkshireheritage.org/whats-on

Everyone loves the excitement of Halloween. Come along to make a spooky wreath for your door or party.

You will be provided with a metal wreath frame and there will be a selection of decorations from pumpkin

MORE skeletons to scary eyes and much more. You may want to decorate a sugar skull or add a touch of the autumn season to complete your own design.

Suitable for adults, teens and children 8+ years (children under 16 must be supervised). 10am-12pm and 1pm-3pm, £20 per child.

22 Oct STAGE COMBAT WORKSHOP at The Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury, RG20 8AE, 01635 570 934, www.watermill.org.uk

Work with a highly trained stage combat director to discover how fights are convincingly created on stage without causing injury! Ages 8-11 (10am-12pm), Ages 12-16 (1pm-3pm), £15.

23 Oct SENSORY STORYTELLING at The Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury, RG20 8AE, 01635 570 934, www.watermill.org.uk

Immerse yourself in an imaginative world filmed with experiences for all the senses. A particular treat for the under 4’s and people of any age with severe or profound and multiple learning disabilities and their companions. BSL, Makaton and Widgit support available. 10am-11.30am, £7, companions £1.

24 Oct FAMILY ACTIVITY DAY at Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 279 279, www.westberkshireheritage.org/whats-on

Perfect Pumpkins! Using porcelain pens, decorate a ceramic pumpkin tealight holder which wil make a fantastic Halloween decoration for your home. New Halloween house trail also available. £2 per child. For 4-11 year olds but younger and older children are welcome. No need to book, drop in.

24 Oct HALF TERM STEAM DAY at Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, Oxon, OX11 7NJ, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk

On Steam Days you will, as usual, be able to view the collection of locomotives, coaches, wagons and buildings, and enjoy the various facilities and exhibits.

In addition, you will be able to ride in coaches from the 1930’s behind Great Western steam locomotives or in a Steam Railmotor or Diesel Railcar. There are two running lines: the Main Line and the Branch Line with trains normally running on either or both. Ride as many times as you like with no extra charge.

25 Oct READING LIBRARIES RHYMETIME

PRESENTS PIRATE PETE AND THE PRINCESS at The Hexagon Theatre, Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA, www.readingarts.com/hexagon Join regular Rhymetime staff at Reading Borough Libraries’ Autumn Show, produced in association with Teddies Music Club. £5, under 16’s free. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 11am & 2pm.

25 Oct LITTLE RED ROBIN HOOD (PUPPET THEATRE) at Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 279 279, www.westberkshireheritage.org/whats-on

A long time ago in a deep, dark wood, lived a brave strong lad who loved Grandma’s pud. And his name was Little Red Robin Hood. A merry mix up in the forest when Little Red Riding Hood cannot be found.

Luckily Robin Hood agrees to go on a quest to take some cakes and flowers to Grandma. Will he stay on the path or will he discover the big bad wolf who looks a bit like the Sheriff of Nottingham? Garlic Theatre present a funny, slapstick, glove puppet show with beautifully crafted puppets, clowning and gentle humour. Adults £9, Child £7. 2pm-2.45pm.

25 Oct NICK SHARRATT’S BIG DRAW ALONG at South Hill Park Theatre and Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk

Join writer and illustrator Nick in a family-friendly fun filed draw-along for all ages. He’ll show you how he creates characters like Tracy Beaker and Timothy Pope, sharing ways to invent your own crazy creatures and giving loads of top tips as you draw along with him. Bring pencils, paper and something to lean on!

Suitable for 4+ years, running time 75 minutes, no interval. The perfect half term treat for your kids.

26 Oct MESSY MUSEUM DAYS at West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, 01635 519 562, www.westberkshireheritage.org/west-berkshiremuseum

Spooky Skulls! Make a skull out of modelling clay and then paint its features to make a spookily good Halloween decoration. 10am-3pm, £2.

24 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

ONLINE

26 Oct MUSEUMS AT NIGHT – DRAGON HUNT at West

familiesonline.co.uk

Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, 01635 519 562, www.westberkshireheritage.org/westberkshire-museum

Family friendly event involving a FREE dragon hunt through a dark or dimly lit museum – please bring a torch! Blaze, the museum dragon, has a number of dragon friends who have decided to play hide and seek in the museum. Help Blaze to count the tiny glow-in-the-dark dragons as well as to find his dragon friends and a missing dragon egg. 5.15pm-7.15pm, drop in.

27-28 Oct BING LIVE! At The Hexagon Theatre, Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA, www.readingarts.com/hexagon

Calling all Bingsters! Bing and his friends are coming to Reading in the first even Bing stage show! Join Bing, Sula, Coco and Panda as they find out how to tell stories by pretending, dressing up and singing songs. Don’t miss the chance to see your little one’s face as their favourite characters are brought to life in this brand new show. Full of fun, laughter and music, Bing Live is the perfect first theatre trip for preschoolers and their families. £18, Under 16’s free.

Babes in arms under 6 months, £1.

27-28 Oct WIZARD WEEKEND at The Watercress Line, Alresford, Hants, 01962 733 810, www.watercressline.co.uk

Board the Wizard Express for magic and mischief!

Dress up as a Halloween spook and take unlimited rides on the Wizard Express steam train. There are lots of spooky activities to keep the kids entertained. Hold an owl or be brave and touch some hairy, scary creepy crawlies, marvel at a haunting magic show and get your face painted into something scary. Adults £17, children aged 2-6 £9, under 2’s free, Family Ticket £43 31 Oct HALLOWEEN PARTY NIGHT at Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 279 279, www.westberkshireheritage.org/whats-on

A night of spooky fun! With Halloween trails, apple bobbing and snapping in the grounds. Plus indoor crafts, ghostly story time and trick or treating throughout the night. Come in fancy dress and please bring a torch! Children £6, accompanying adult free, additional adults £1. Suitable for 4+ years. This is a ticket only event, book early to avoid disappointment.

6.20pm-8.30pm.

1 Nov BLAZE’S BUDDIES at West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, 01635 519 562, www.westberkshireheritage.org/west-berkshiremuseum

Join Blaze, the museum dragon, and listen to a short action poem about him followed by other activities including a simple craft linked to the treasure Blaze has found that day. FREE session tickets are available from 10am on the day – it is first come, first served as places are limited. Suitable for 2-5 years. The theme for this session is textures.

BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKETS www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

Up to 30 stallholders selling excellent nearly new baby and children’s items from birth to 6 years, and a small selection of unique businesses in the baby and children’s industry showcasing and selling their products under one roof.

9 Sep MEADWAY SPORTS CENTRE, Conwy Close, Tilehurst, RG30 4BZ, 2pm-3.30pm 15 Sep BURNHAM PARK HALL, SL1 7HR, 1pm-2.30pm 22 Sep BRACKNELL LEISURE CENTRE, (Main Sports Hall), Bagshot Road, 2pm-3.30pm 20 Oct WOODFORD PARK LEISURE CENTRE, Woodley, RG5 7LZ, 2pm-4.00pm

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Clubs and Classes HALF TERM CAMPS AND COURSES OCTOBER 2018 DINTON ACTIVITY CENTRE Sandford Lane, Berkshire, RG10 0SU, 0118 974 6343, www.wokingham.gov.uk/dac Half term activities at Dinton Activity Centre are a great way to encourage children out of the house and into the open air during the school holidays. Join the friendly and experienced staff for Wild Days with sailing, rock climbing, canoeing; Adventure Days with paddleboarding, sailing and kayaking, or the Junior Sailing Club where you can work towards RYS stages and enjoy sailing sessions incorporating games and races with more advanced sailing skills. An excellent way for children to keep fit, make friends and have lots of fun. Childcare Vouchers accepted. Free drop-off and pick-up parking included with holiday activities.

GREEN PARK HOLIDAY PLAYCLUB The Mad House Play and Party World, Reading, RG2 6UL, 0118 937 2635, www.readingplay.co.uk Sessions run from Monday-Friday throughout Half Term, 8.30am-5.30pm, with shorter sessions available. Activities include art and crafts, games and sports, indoor and outdoor group games, football, badminton and tennis.

A quiet area is also provided where children can rest with cushions and read books. From £11 for a half day session.

ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE HOLIDAY CLUB St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5JT, 0118 966 1000 The holiday club runs for every full week of half term and school holiday. They are open from 8am-6pm every day with half day sessions also available. Places available for both St Joseph’s pupils and non-pupils. Early Years Holiday Club for ages 3-Reception is based at the school’s dedicated Early Years Centre, complete with age-appropriate resources and toys. Outside there is a secure all-weather garden with a variety of outdoor play equipment. Year 1-6 Holiday Club offers a wide range of exciting activities planned to enhance new skills, encourage inclusion, teamwork and strategic thinking. Multi-sports, cooking, arts and crafts and swimming are just some of the activities on offer. Book online at www.sjcr.org.uk/413/information/holidayclub or call 0118 966 1000 JUBILEE JETS School Road, Padworth Common, Berkshire, RG7 4JA, 0118 983 4018, www.jubileejets.co.uk A fun holiday club for children aged 5-11, open every day during Half Term from 8am-6pm.

Located in beautiful countryside at Padworth Common, there is a wide variety of indoor and outdoor fun activities offered including quad biking, trips to the woods, arts and crafts, cooking and lots more. Book online using Childcare Vouchers or credit/debit card.

KOOSA KIDS 0845 094 2322, www.koosakids.co.uk Fun, affordable, OFSTED approved childcare throughout the school holidays at Waingels College, Woodley, Birch Hill Primary School in Bracknell and Ascot Heath Junior School, Ascot. Action packed days are filled with sporting and creative activities for ages 4-13.

The activity day runs from 8.15am to 6pm with the option to book a shorter day from 10am4pm. Prices from £21 per day.

STAR HOTSHOTS MULTI ACTIVITY CAMPS 0845 301 0450, www.star-hotshots.co.uk OFSTED registered camps are open every school holiday from Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays). Camps run at Reading Blue Coat School in Sonning and St Piran’s School, Maidenhead. Staffed by qualified PE teachers and coaches for ages 4-14 years, there are a variety of games and activities to help develop skills and have fun at the same time. Open 8am-6pm (half days also available).

SUPER CAMPS MULTI-ACTIVITY CAMPS 01235 467 300, www.supercamps.co.uk Ideal for children aged 3-4 years who want to try a wide range of activities. Camps run at The Abbey School, Reading, Radley College in Oxfordshire, Hurst Lodge School in Ascot and Trinity School near Newbury. 9am-5pm with extended hours available.

26 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

LEIGHTON PARK HOLIDAY PLAYSCHEME Leighton Park School, Shinfield Road, Reading, RG2 7DG, 0118 987 9358, www.leightonpark.com/enterprises Based in the grounds of Leighton Park School in Reading, the Leighton Park Holiday Playscheme offers a fabulous activity programme and provides high quality daycare for children aged 5-14 during all holiday periods including prep school times. Their programme includes archery, arts and crafts, climbing, fencing, kayaking, trampolining and off-site visits. Flexible opening hours from 7.30am-5.30pm weekdays.

KIDS CAMP AT DOWNSHIRE GOLF COMPLEX Easthampstead Park, Wokingham, 01344 302 030, www.everyoneactive.com/centre/downshiregolf-complex Kids camps for all ages for either half or full days, developing skills on the driving range, pitch and putt course and practice areas as well as the full golf course for afternoon attendees. Birdie Camp from 9am-12noon is aimed at less experienced/younger golfers aged 5-8 yrs. Eagle Camp from 9am-4pm is aimed at the slightly more experienced/older golfer, aged 8 and over. Hot lunch and drinks are included when staying all day. Places must be booked in advance by calling the Golf Shop on 01344 302 030. familiesonline.co.uk

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Diddi Dance Appoints Two New Teachers With its high-energy classes proving as popular as ever, diddi dance Reading & Wokingham has appointed two new teachers to keep up with demand.

Exercise professional Frankie Cohen and experienced dance teacher Sonia Brown will both take on sessions from September, with new class venues set to launch later in Autumn.

“I’m really proud of the continued

growth of diddi dance since its launch almost five years ago and am delighted to be taking on two teachers to help me open more classes and sessions across the local area,” says Andrea Bickford, owner of diddi dance Reading & Wokingham.

“A former diddi dance mum, Frankie knows exactly how to build an impressive rapport with each child in her class; and with a background in musical theatre, Sonia has an infectious energy and enthusiasm which is perfect for inspiring young children.” diddi dance is the market leader in dedicated pre-school dance classes. By exploring multiple dance styles, the funky sessions are the ideal way to introduce girls and boys aged 1.5-5 years to the joy of dancing and to help them burn of excess energy in a creative and educational environment.

If you would like to find out more about diddi dance, please call Andrea on 07719 87 87 89, email andrea.bickford@diddidance.co or visit www.diddidance.com

Continue the summer holiday mood this Autumn and try your local BilinguaSing class Were you amazed on your summer holiday at how easily your children made friends with children of all nationalities?

While you maybe felt a bit embarrassed at how little of the local language you could speak? Well fear not, this Autumn, join your local BilinguaSing French or Spanish music class and see how much fun it can be to learn a new language with your baby, toddler or pre-schooler.

Kate Sleeman, who runs classes in Wokingham, Winnersh and Arborfield says it’s never too soon to start. She

comments, ‘Babies and young children have a natural ability to pick up foreign languages at the same time as they’re learning to speak their native language.

They learn by listening and repeating the sounds that they hear around them, so a summer holiday in a foreign country is an amazing opportunity to get them started and begin broadening their horizons.

When back home, BilinguaSing is a relaxed, no pressure environment to enjoy popular songs in English and in Spanish or French. No prior foreign language knowledge is needed as everyone learns together – the babies, toddlers and mums and dads too.’

All readers of Families can trial their first BilinguaSing class for FREE! For more information on BilinguaSing classes for babies, toddlers and pre-school children, email kate@bilinguasing.com or visit www.bilinguasing.com/wokinghamreading-twyford

Clubs and Classes News Berzerk start rehearsals for Christmas Show

After the greatest summer school, Berzerk Productions are now busy rehearsing for their Christmas production of The Snow Queen.

One of the world’s greatest story tellers; Hans Christian Andersen, his classic story will come thrillingly alive as Berzerk Productions present “The Snow Queen”

A magical, memorable adventure of friendship and self-discovery... Perfect family entertainment for ages 3 to 100.

With guest performances from Circus Passion students, creating some sublime aerial performance art and live music courtesy of The Rock Project students, Reading.

Berzerk will be premiering this production direct from New York Winner of the 2014 Stage Rights/NYMF Publishing Award, a programme of The New York Musical Theatre Festival. It promises to be the hottest ticket in town this Christmas - A fairy-tale that rocks! https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/berzerk productions or www.berzerkproductions.com for all that Berzerk are working on with young people in our area. #GoBerzerk

Boosting Children’s Self Esteem with Life Skills with Perform A common struggle shared by many children is lack of confidence. This can stop some children reaching their full potential.

Perform Drama is a unique drama school that uses drama, dance and singing to help all children achieve their true potential – even those that are shy and reserved.

“Perform is NOT a stage school,” stresses Perform Producer, Karen. “It teaches life skills through fun drama games and end of term shows. The real aim of the classes is to help children develop the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication.”

“Classes are small with both a Producer and a Teacher. Children are offered a free trial and the Producer spends time beforehand with each parent, establishing their goals. For instance, speaking more clearly or making eye contact when introduced

to someone unfamiliar.”

Producers report back to parents after each class on the focus of the week and answer questions about the progress of individual children. “Shy children often come to classes clinging to their parents. I can pretty much guarantee that within 5 or 6 classes, they will run in without waving goodbye,” reports Karen.

For more information about classes across the Thames Valley, visit www.perform.org.uk

BOOKING NOW

for classes in Compton, Thatcham, Reading & Pangbourne

Term & Holiday courses available email: membership@bulmershegymnastics.co.uk

rose@swimlessons.co.uk | www.swimlessons.co.uk

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Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 01235 751 980

Families Thames Valley West • 27

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Clubs and Classes Directory Regular Clubs, Classes and out of school activities give your child a chance to shine and for you to have fun together, and there really is plenty of variety to choose from, as we’ve discovered. Here are a few of our favourites, for babies, toddlers and school aged children!

For more clubs and classes in your area, check out familiesonline.co.uk

Developmental Classes (See also our Music & Movement section)

Master Builders Club – LEGO workshops for children. Weekend and school holiday workshops, birthday parties and primary school events are a LEGO lover’s paradise, designed to provide children with an exciting and captivating experience.

Fun workshops start with a short story which sets the theme and building challenges. Then the creativity begins as the Master Builders have access to 1000’s of LEGO bricks sorted into colour, size and shape. If you are passionate about providing engaging and stimulating play opportunities that nurture your child’s mind, then Master Builders Club is for you. www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk Baby College – fun, multi-sensory baby/child development classes from birth to 3yrs in Reading, Woodley, Lower Earley, Finchampstead & Wokingham.

Vanessa@babycollege.co.uk / 0118 987 664 / 0776 6688 120 Hartbeeps - Magical multi-sensory music classes using innovative props, lighting effects, and puppetry to a backdrop of funky tunes, reworked nursery rhymes, and beautiful lullabies. Classes for babies from birth to sitting; sitting to walking; and walking to four years. For Ascot, Bracknell, and Caversham email Rachel at rachel@hartbeeps.com. For Henley and Marlow, contact Kerraleigh on 07866 656366 or email kerraleigh@hartbeeps.com. For Windsor, Burnham, Maidenhead, Woodley, Earley, and Wokingham contact Liz on 07985 935662 or email liz@hartbeeps.com

Gym, Sport and Swimming Bulmershe Gymnastics Club – based at a purpose built gym in Woodley, run gymnastics classes for all ages including Leap Frogs for walkers to 5 years lead by qualified coaches. www.bulmershegymnastics.co.uk Baby Splash – Swimming lessons for babies, toddlers and children from birth to 6 years. It doesn’t matter at what age your little ones join or whether they are beginners or advanced – they’ll be made to feel welcome in the water.

Fully trained and experienced teachers.

Classes across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Surrey. 0118 996 8958, info@babysplash.co.uk, www.baby-splash.co.uk GR Swimming Schools – children’s swimming lessons from 3yrs in Newbury, Thatcham, Woodcote and Pangbourne. Beginners, improvers and club level swimmers. Also holiday crash courses in swimming, diving and snorkelling. Structured lessons, ASA Award Scheme. 01635 201 410, www.swimlessons.co.uk

28 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

Aquababies/Kiddies Bagshot, Surrey and Dorking – one of the UK’s leading children’s swimming schools. They run lessons for children of all ages, including babies from as young as 8 weeks old, that are based on progressive exercises relating to the child’s stage of physical and social development, whilst having fun. 20% off re-launch offer for newcomers. 07766 242572, info.surrey@aquababiesglobal.com Arts and Crafts Artspiration School of Drawing and Painting: Offering fun, imaginative and instructional lessons in drawing and painting to school-aged children in Maidenhead, Wokingham and Reading. Artspiration will inspire, motivate, guide and give your budding artists the skills required to express themselves better visually.

01628 634 418, www.artspiration.co.uk Taylor Tug’s Under 5’s Club – creative activity sessions for parents to enjoy with their children. Led by a trained teacher, sessions include craft, stories and song. Most Wednesdays in term time at The River and Rowing Museum, Henley, 01491 514 605, www.rrm.co.uk Music and Movement Monkey Music – fun music classes from 3months-4yrs with action songs and rhymes, music and movement, percussion instruments and musical games. Classes in Newbury, familiesonline.co.uk

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Clubs and Classes Directory learning through play. Classes also incorporate the Kodaly principles of music teaching which have recently made headlines for their positive impact on school and pupil performance.

Classes in Caversham, Emmer Green and Henley. 07813 319 4040, vicki.joyce@musicalbumps.com, www.musicalbumps.com BilinguaSing – award winning Spanish and French bilingual singing, music and movement classes for babies (from 1 month), toddlers and pre-school children. BilinguaSing is a unique class for parents and little ones to learn Spanish or French together in a fun and engaging way.

Familiar nursery rhymes and songs are learned in both English and Spanish or French and are accompanied by a variety of fun movements and lovely props. Classes suitable for complete beginners to native speakers. Wokingham, Reading and surrounding areas, including Saturday mornings. First taster class is FREE! Call Kate on 07810 751 645, kate@bilinguasing.com, www.bilinguasing.com

Thatcham, Mortimer, Henley and Upper Basildon. 01635 860 959, www.monkeymusic.co.uk diddi dance - funky pre-school dance classes for girls and boys. Award winning, high energy sessions explore 16 different styles set to original, age-appropriate music. Classes improve gross motor skills, rhythm, coordination, confidence, creativity and social skills with dancing games, fun exercises, action songs and a host of props. Lessons are aligned to the EYFS and are structured yet relaxed.

Nursery workshops and parties too! Free trial available. Classes run every day throughout Reading & Wokingham. Call Andrea on 07719 87 87 89, or email andrea.bickford@diddidance.com Musical Bumps – outstanding music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-school children, which follow the EYFS principle of holistic

Berkshire School of Music – offers musical instrument lessons and music theory lessons from the school in Caversham, Reading.

Holiday and Weekend Music Workshops for ages 6-16. 07831 861 332, enquiries@berkshireschoolofmusic.co.uk, www.berkshireschoolofmusic.co.uk Dance & Drama Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow – Fun, energetic classes for 3½ to 18yrs. Dance, drama and singing, tap, street dance, pop styles, musical theatre. Regular classes in Wargrave, Wokingham and Woodley, plus summer classes. Call Shelley on 07970 034 488, or email shelley@steppinoutstars.co.uk, www.steppinoutstars.co.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts School: Dance, drama and singing classes for 4-18 years that build confidence and teach skills. Early Years classes for 4-6 years designed to introduce young children to the performing arts. Local branches in Wokingham, Henley, Reading, Bracknell, Marlow and Newbury. www.stagecoach.co.uk

Perform – Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. Perform offer noobligation FREE trial sessions.

Venues: Newbury, Pangbourne, Twyford, Caversham, Wokingham, Henley and Crowthorne.

Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try Berzerk Productions: LAMDA examination classes, unique Drama Factory workshops, musical theatre and production opportunities for 6-19 years in Tilehurst, Woodley, Spencers Wood, Caversham, Reading, Pangbourne and Woodcote. Trial class free. 07863 734 830, www.berzerkproductions.com CATA – The Commercial Arts Training Academy – aims to offer young people with a passion with performing arts the opportunity to gain vital training in specialised sectors of the performing arts industry, focusing on acting for TV & film, vocal coaching, songwriting and recording, dance training and artist development. Classes are catered for ages 3-7 and 8-18 in Reading, with private coaching also available. Classes on Thursdays ages 3-7, 45pm, ages 8-18 5pm-7pm. Holiday workshops also available. Call Kat on 07768 990 238 or email catacademyuk@gmail.com StageAbility after-school drama classes for kids who love to ACT! Pangbourne, Burghfield, Tilehurst, Earley and Wokingham. High-energy classes mean that students never get bored, can't wait to get to class and develop confidence, creativity and focus. Pay-As-YouGo option for infants. www.berkshire.stageability.co.uk, jackie@berkshire.stageability.co.uk M: 07721 565898, T: 0118 933 3791 JG Dance and Theatre College – beginner classes from 21/2 years in ballet, jazz, tap, limbering, drama and singing. Twice yearly theatre performances. Free trial session available. Classes held in Marlow, Bourne End, Twyford, Caversham, Woodley, Tilehurst, Henley and Basingstoke. 01491 572 000, www.jgdance.co.uk

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Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 01235 751 980

Families Thames Valley West • 29

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Top Tips for Choosing Classes, Activities & Clubs for Your Child By Elisabeth Dolton Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the range and volume of activities, classes and clubs available for your child to join? Aside from the important issue of LOGISTICS, in other words, how are these activities going to fit into your schedule, how do you go about deciding what to choose?

Help them choose activities that reflect who they are and what they want to learn and don’t impose your own preferences.

If you have a reluctant child, explain that it’s important and fun to try new things, but don’t insist.

Be Amazed...The Look Out

Good luck!

Bring this voucher to get one free child with one full paying adult*.

Discovery Centre Science and discovery fun over 90 activities.

Splash, Bubbles and Balloons 15 September 28 October 2018

Valid until 31/10/18

Shows run at weeken ds and school holidays.

Age 3+

*Terms and conditions apply.

Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Open 10am - 5pm every day

Tel: 01344 354400 www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

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Ensure staff members are professionals with relevant skills and experience.

Consider the mix of activities.

The benefits of exercise are huge, so try to include a sport.

If you are stuck between two similar activities, consider the usefulness, e.g. drumming lessons might be cool, but the guitar might have wider applicability.

TVWSEPT18

Here are my top tips: Talk to your children, explain how many activities you think there is time for and find out what they are interested in pursuing.

Let them choose at least one class, activity or club themselves.

Remember that moving from one activity to another is normal amongst children.

Always consider the benefits of an activity. For instance, there’s great value in discipline-based activities that create a quality product over a period of time and teach value skills such as leadership and team work eg putting on a play.

Don’t assume that high cost equals high quality.

Tel: 01344 354400

www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

Families

30 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

familiesonline.co.uk

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Halloween Craft

How to Make a Doorway Dare Knock, knock, Whoooo’s there…

Kids love trick-or-treating - but sometimes it rains, or the neighbours pretend to be out. Here’s a crafty trick or treat game from our friends at Wonderbly that you can make and play with at home.

You’ll create two doorways: one leads to a trick and the other to a treat.

Will your little visitor get a chocolate or an eyeball? It’s a shifty fifty-fifty.

Follow these eight simple steps to build your doorways.

You will need: • 4 shoeboxes (no lids) • a utility knife • a metal ruler • paint • brushes

• a black marker pen • 2 pieces of dark cloth • 2 large buttons, or bottletops • cobwebs (preferably fake) or feathers • tricks and treats

How to make your Doorway Dare Step 1 Take two of the shoeboxes and draw a door-shaped rectangle on each. Using the knife and ruler, cut along three sides of the door, leaving it on its hinges.

Step 2 Grab some brushes and paint the boxes. Try boldly-contrasting colours for the door and brickwork.

Leave your doorways to dry.

Step 3 Get a thick marker pen and add some details: letterbox, doorbell, house number. For a doorknob, you can sew on a button or glue on a bottle cap.

Step 4 Turn your boxes around. Glue or staple a piece of cloth inside each, then cut a slit down the centre of the cloth (for intrepid hands to reach through). Put these boxes to one side.

Step 5 Now take your other two boxes.

Decorate the insides with fake cobwebs, feathers or other touchy-feely things. One should feel lovely, the other should feel icky! These will form the backs (or hallways) to your doors.

Step 6 Tape the hallway boxes to the doorway boxes, so reaching through the door will lead to the sensory items.

Step 1

Step 5

Step 2

Step 6

Step 3

Step 7

Step 4

Step 8

Step 7 Find something lovely and something not so lovely. (Plastic spider/strawberry lolly, lychee eyeball/pound coin etc.) Hide the treat in one doorway and the trick in the other.

Step 8 Dim the lights and invite your little trick-or-treaters to choose their fate. You can even make it a breakfast ritual in the build-up to Halloween. Ratatatat…

Wonderbly are creators of beautiful personalised children’s books that inspire courage, curiousity and kindness in children all over the world. A treat for any curious little mind. Find out more at www.wonderbly.com

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

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Queen Anne’s School An independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18

The right choice for your daughter’s future

Open Morning Saturday 15 September Friday 16 November Friday 8 March BOOK ONLINE NOW

‘Excellent’ Independent Schools Inspectorate 2017

www.qas.org.uk/bookanevent Queen Anne’s School, Henley Road, Caversham, Berkshire, RG4 6DX T: +44(0)118 918 7300 E: www.qas.org.uk