Families Thames Valley East Sept Oct 2012

Thames Valley East September/October 2012 - Issue 62

Tel: 01628 828258 Email: montessorischool@aol.com School Lane, Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 3QY We are a very well-established Montessori Nursery set in a once Victorian primary school at the heart of the picturesque village of Littlewick Green.

Ages 12 months - 5 years After School & Holiday Club for children 1 to 8 years.

Operating a 43 and 48 week year Open 8am-6pm Full days or morning and afternoon sessions Covering the EYFS & Montessori curriculum Quality day care in a warm and friendly environment Football & Multi Sport coaching available for ages 3-5 Mouse Wizards (I.C.T.) for the 3-5 year olds Drama, Music & Movement Classes Free funded sessions for 3-5 year olds

11+ Preparation 1 to 1 Tutoring Individualised Courses KS1, KS2 and KS3 Tutoring Telephone 07535 522755 email info@eatontutors.com www.eatontutors.com

Checking Homework and Correcting Online Tutoring Beginners Arabic Tutoring

We specialise in preparing pupils for common entrance examinations

Learning English as a Foreign Language Tailor Made Study Packs

The really useful magazine for parents of children between 0 and 12 Packed with information and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

in this

issue 3 News & Info 7 Clubs & Classes Directory Back to School Special 15 Learning to Read 17 Maths + Exercise = Results 18 Coping with Secondary School 20 Education News 21 School Open Days 22 Health: Keeping your kids fit for life 23 Health News 24 Competitions 25 Time Out 29 Halloween 30 Parenting: Dealing with Contraband 31 Parenting: Dealing with Bullying 32 Eds Reading Room 33 Bumps & Babes: Sensory Play 34 Mums Who Mean Business 35 Classifieds

web: FamiliesTVEast.co.uk tel: 01628 627586 fax: 08717 146 305 (calls cost 10p/min) e-mail: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editor: Claire Winter circulation: 19,000 next issue: November/December 2012 due out: November 1 featuring: Christmas copy/advertising deadline: October 1

Cover photograph by Duane Barrett - In The Frame Studios. www.intheframestudios.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Phew! What an amazing summer of sport. Hopefully our children will have been inspired to try new things this autumn, so turn to pages 7 – 14 for our ever growing Clubs and Classes directory. There are loads of new sports, activities and classes to try.

If your child is making the move from primary to secondary school we have some good advice on page 18 and some great competitions on page 24.

I’m already looking forward to crunching in leaves, Halloween and bonfire night. We’ll be back in November with our Christmas special.

BE MENIGITIS WISE

Who is at risk?

Reports of children who appear ‘a bit off colour’ but within hours are fighting for their lives from meningitis, strike fear into the hearts of parents everywhere. With time being of the essence it’s crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms, warns charity Meningitis Research Foundation (MRF).

In the UK and Ireland, around 3,600 people are affected by meningitis each year.

One in 10 people who contract the disease lose their lives and a quarter will be left with life changing disabilities.

Meningitis and septicaemia are deadly diseases that can progress at an alarming rate. Meningitis is caused by the inflammation of the meninges, the lining around the brain and spinal cords.

Septicaemia is the blood poisoning form of the disease where bacteria multiply rapidly, producing toxins that attack the lining of the blood vessels. One of the results is that the body produces an inflammatory response which can result in a rash.

Young children and adolescents are particularly susceptible. Meningitis and septicaemia kill more children under the age of five in the UK than any other infectious disease. Babies under 12 months are the most vulnerable because their immune system is not fully developed and they cannot easily fight infection.

In the early stages the diseases can be mistaken for other illnesses. Fever, headache and feeling generally ill may suggest that a child has a virus, such as flu, but early diagnosis and treatment gives the best chance for a full recovery.

Knowing the symptoms is important, look out for: Fever/vomiting, severe headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, very sleepy/vacant/difficult to wake, confused/delirious, rash and seizures.

Anyone with serious symptoms should seek medical advice. For more details go to www.meningitis.org

How do you get meningitis and septicaemia?

There can be a number of causes of meningitis, but the two most common are viruses and bacteria.

Viral meningitis is rarely life-threatening, but can leave patients with lifelong after-effects.

Bacterial meningitis is life-threatening. At any one time around ten per cent of the population carry these bacteria perfectly harmlessly in the back of their nose and throat. If treated quickly most people will make a good recovery, but a quarter of survivors suffer life-long after-effects including brain damage, amputations, hearing loss and epilepsy.

twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

How can meningitis be prevented?

Meningitis vaccines give excellent protection but can't prevent all forms of meningitis and septicaemia. There is currently no vaccine for meningococcal Group B, which is responsible for the majority of cases in the UK; around five cases a day. Neonatal forms of the disease are also not currently vaccine preventable.

What should you do if you are worried?

Trust your instincts. If you think your child has meningitis or septicaemia get medical help immediately from a GP or the nearest hospital and tell them you are worried!

To find out more about the signs and symptoms and how MRF can support you visit: www.meningitis.org

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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News & Info BOOK NOW for advertising in our Nov/Dec issue Due out November 1st email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

NUMBERFIT CLASSES TO BE PART OF SCHOOLS’ CURRICULUM

The Windsor Club Day Nursery & Crèche at The Windsor Club Helston Lane, Windsor. SL4 5AP Independent Day Nursery from 3 months – 5 years Ofsted approved, grant funding available for 3 years+ We offer music, french, gym, ballet, cooking and ball skills as well as freshly prepared meals and a large enclosed garden.

A friendly and secure environment open Monday – Friday 8am – 6pm

01753 855543

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

This September schools in London are piloting an innovative local class that combines mathematics, problem solving and fitness. Numberfit classes are designed to make the experience of learning mathematics engaging and enjoyable by creating a unique learning environment, thus boosting both mathematical confidence and competence. The education authority chose the classes to be part of the schools' curriculum after seeing the success of Numberfit. Other local education authorities have also shown interest in the programme.

Numberfit currently teaches extra curricular classes in Marlow and Beaconsfield and is starting sessions in Maidenhead and Windsor. The classes’ main goal is to make maths and problem solving fun for children aged 3 to 11 years and bring the subject to life.

For more information take a look at their website and demonstration video at www.numberfit.com or call 0208 1233 996.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

GO TO GOYALS FOR ALL YOUR UNIFORM NEEDS The newly refurbished uniform shop, Goyals, which is located on 28 Bridge Street in Maidenhead, offers a large range of school uniform, sportswear, work and corporate wear, dancewear and uniform for scouting organisations. They also offer a complete design, embroidery and screen printing service and can do alterations.

The business has been running for over 40 years and supplies uniforms to many schools across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. Including many schools based in Maidenhead such as Claires Court Schools, Newlands Girls School, Oldfield School, Alwyn Infant School, Courthouse School, St. Lukes School, Burchetts Green Infant School and Ellington Primary School.

They also provide uniform for schools in Slough, Taplow and Windsor, among them are St. Bernards School in Slough, St. Nicholas School in Taplow, Windsor Girls School, Windsor Boys School and many more.

For more information go to www.goyalmaidenhead.co.uk or call 01628 639725.

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

News & Info

CELEBRATE DAHL AND ONE OF HIS GREATEST HEROES This September 13 marks the seventh annual celebration of Roald Dahl’s work. This year will be a double celebration with the chance to salute the world’s favourite storytellers and one of his favourite characters, the BFG. Children and adults will be able to celebrate 30 whizzpopping years of the BFG, with a whole range of activities throughout September. For more information go to www.roalddahlday.info The Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden will be holding a series of events on September 9. www.roadldahlmuseum.org.

Children can get involved by dressing up as their favourite Dahl character on Friday September 28 for the Dahlicious Dress Up Day. Any money raised will go to the Roald Dahl charity for seriously ill children. It’s the second year that the day has run and a great opportunity for children to bring Dahl’s characters to life. www.roalddahlcharity.org

Picture Quentin Blake

GIVE YOUR CHILD A HEAD START AT SCHOOL! If you are looking for a program to help your children learn while they play, supporting their school learning, register for a free, no obligation trial to Reading Eggs. The Reading Eggs program has been created to help children aged 3-7 to learn to read and further develop those skills. The program is all online and can be used on a computer, laptop and most tablets (with an iPad it can be accessed through the free educational app Rover due

to flash compatibility) making it instantly attractive to children.

Give it try for 5 weeks free and see for yourself the difference it could make. Simply visit www.readingeggs.co.uk, click the ‘Parents click here’ button and follow the set up instructions. Once your account has been activated and you have added a child enter code UKB24TVE. 10%unt discofees on

PICTURE PERFECT LOCATION FOR STUDIO IN BRAY Simon Earle Photography has opened a new studio in Bray Village, near Maidenhead.You couldn’t ask for a better location, the studio is near the river Thames and surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens.

In addition to studio photography, you can also choose to have your photos taken on the lawns by the river or perhaps in a wildflower meadow if the season is right. A wide range of photographic packages and products are available at affordable prices.

In addition to their speciality of family portraiture, they can also provide a range of photographic services that include: weddings, parties, events, and corporate and commercial work. For more information call 01628 879111 or go to www.simonearle.co.uk.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Fresh & Clean Laundrette 19 Gloucester Road, Spencers Estate, Maidenhead SL6 7SN

Tel: 01628-676707 • Self Service or Service Washes available • Large washing and drying machine for duvets • Laundry collection and delivery service • Complimentary hot drinks Open: Mon- Sat, 8am-6pm. Sun & Bank Hols 9am-4pm

Advertise for as little as £60 plus VAT. Call: 01628 627586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

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News & Info INNOVATIVE ORGANIC FOOD SCHEME COMES TO MAIDENHEAD

MUM LAUNCHES ONLINE SHOP FOR CHILDREN ON SPECIAL DIETS Wokingham mum, Suzanne Attryde, has firsthand experience of how difficult it can be to find tasty foods for children on restricted diets. Both her young sons have been on a restricted diet for 4 years.

Suzanne says “Special occasions, such as Easter, have been particularly difficult for my children as I struggled to find foods that looked as good as the ones their peers ate. I wanted to help other families by bringing together the best freefrom products into one place – our online supermarket Freefromforkids.co.uk was born. We offer products that fit with many special diets – dairy free, egg free, wheat free, gluten free, soya free and nut free. We want to help families with the cost of buying free from foods so we offer free collection to save on postage.”

Freefromforkids caters for every day foods and special occasions - for kids and adults alike.

Visit them at: www.freefromforkids.co.uk

Local mother Maria Evans, is co-ordinating Maidenhead’s first organic fruit and vegetable hub. The town has been identified as an area lacking access to affordable local homegrown produce. The aim of the project is to provide local families with reasonably priced organic fruit and vegatables.

Foodnation: the People's Digital Co-op, has set up the pilot scheme, which allows members of the community to create their own organic food hub. Maria hosts hers, from her home in Ray Lea Road in return for substantial discount on her share.

Maidenhead residents can order their weekly organic fruit and vegetable box at near wholesale prices, via subscription from Foodnation's online market place. Orders are then passed to the farm and then delivered to Maria's hub for pick-up by members of her hub. Waltham Place Organic Farm in White Waltham are one of the first UK farms involved. Cut off times for placing online orders is Tuesday, and members pick-up their order from Maria's place on Thursday afternoon.

Due to high demand for places Foodnation are currently recruiting additional hub co-ordinators in Maidenhead, Windsor and Slough.

To join Foodnation or apply to host-ahub visit www.food-nation.co.uk or call 0800 0842288 today.

THE BABY LAUGHTER PROJECT Scientists at the world-famous BabyLab at Birkbeck, University of London are launching a new study to help us understand more about that most delightful of sounds: a baby’s laughter. Long before they can talk babies can communicate their experience of the world through laughter and tears. The study will provide new perspectives on infants’ social and emotional development.

Dr Caspar Addyman hopes to collect evidence from parents of children aged under 21⁄2 years old, to discover how the things that make a baby laugh change during the first two years of life and how these changes relate to other milestones in their cognitive development.

Dr Addyman said: “Much work is undertaken on infants’ social and emotional development but up until now laughter has been strangely neglected, with most studies focusing on moments of stress and confusion. I believe that studying when and why babies laugh will provide a good insight into what they understand about the world at different ages.”

If you have a child under 2½ years old and would like to participate in the survey, which takes between 15-20 minutes to complete, or to find out more about the project, please visit http://babylaughter.net.

Quote Families to get 10% off the 4 week introduction course.

MOOREPilates offers:

Benefits of Pilates

• 4 Week Introduction Mat Classes • Ongoing Mat Classes at beginners, intermediate and advanced levels • Pre/postnatal and Mother and Baby Classes • One-to-One Reformer Sessions • Group Reformer Sessions

• • • •

sculpt your body improve posture and alignment look and feel better slimmer and more toned with strength and flexibility

You can find us at the West Wing Arts Centre, Stoke Road, Slough SL2 5AY For more information call Sam Moore on 07715182474 or visit our website at www.moorepilates.co.uk

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Clubs & Classes Directory As the new school year starts, so does the time to choose after-school activities. Take a quick look through our directory and you will find a whole range of classes available, from Scouts to ballet, from French to street dance. But how do you choose?

After-school activities definitely offer value to your children. Reports indicate those who participate in after-school programs have better school attendance, higher grades and loftier aspirations. They’re less likely to get into trouble and are at lower risk of obesity. It is also a great opportunity for children to develop social and leadership skills.

Talk to your child and find out how they feel about the activity, and let them choose at least one club or activity themselves. Try not to impose your preferences and remember switching activities is normal amongst children. Perhaps there was an Olympic sport they took an interest in. The main thing is that they have fun and enjoy what they have chosen to do.

ACADEMIC TUITION Eaton Tutors 11+preparation, 1to1 tutoring, individualised courses, specialises in preparing pupils for common entrance, KS1, KS2 and KS3 tutoring, homework checking and correcting, beginners’ Arabic, English as a foreign language. Contact 07535 522755; www.eatontutors.com; info@eatontutors.com Explore Learning. Maths and English tuition designed to meet the unique needs of your child. Courses include 11+ training, creative writing and transition to secondary school. Maidenhead, Telephone: 01628 509570. Slough, Telephone: 01753 362 400.

Camberley Tel: 01276 406 868 www.explorelearning.co.uk Fleet Tutors (One-to-one tuition in prep school entry, 11+, common entrance exams, SATS, and for dyslexia/remedial help). Location: pupil’s home.

0845 644 5452. www.fleet-tutors.co.uk Howland Tutors (Maths, English, 11+, Sats, GCSE, A-Level). Age: 5 -18+. Location: homes of students or tutors in 20-mile radius of Marlow. 01628 477164. www.howlandtutors.co.uk 11+ & 12+ Verbal & Non-Verbal Entrance Test Tuition, 1 to1 tuition by female tutor, Assessments every 10 sessions to monitor progress, Term Time & Holiday sessions, Covering Slough, East Berks, South Bucks & surrounding areas, Contact Shirley on 01753 571225/07958 717582, elevenplus999@btinternet.com, www.elevenplus999.com.

Maths Tuition (AS & A Level) & Statistics - One to One tuition by experienced Mathematics tutor, Assessment every 10 lessons to monitor progress. Term time and Holiday sessions. Covering Slough, East Berkshire, South Bucks and surrounding areas.

Contact Kourosh on 01753 571225/07791222113 or bkb012@btinternet.com AFTER SCHOOL CARE In its 10th Year across Berkshire and Surrey, The Gap Club, continues to excel standards in its AFTER SCHOOL, BREAKFAST and HOLIDAY CLUBS. If you are looking for Original, Fun childcare with a Unique blend of traditional and contemporary activities individually crafted for children of all ages then: Call us on 07854078728 to find out more!

Clubs & Classes ARCHERY Berkshire Archery Association. Junior classes from 9 +. www.berkshirearchery.co.uk ART AND CRAFTS After School Arts Club Ages 8+ years. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 788997; www.nordenfarm.org Alekhya Art Classes (small art classes for children taken by a trained artist).

Catering for children of all ages. Location: Maidenhead. 01628 634418 or email shalinib@gmail.com. alekhyaartclasses.wix.com/maidenhead Amanda’s Art Classes (drawing, painting, collage and fun after school and in the holidays with artist Amanda Kavanagh). Ages: 6-12. Location: north Ascot. Book termly.

Call: 01344 885086 or see www.amandasart.co.uk for further information.

Create ‘n Make Fun and interactive arts and craft group for pre-school children.

Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 788997; www.nordenfarm.org Hands on Art Studio (Adult and Children Art and Pottery Classes) Monday 4:30-6pm, Pottery course (ages 8-12), Tues 5-6pm, Gifted & Talented (ages 8-12), Wednesday 4:30-5:30pm, Art, (ages 4-7), Thursday 10-11am, Pre-School Art (age 3+), Thursday 2-3pm, Story Tiling (age 3+) Saturday 10-11:30am, Kids Club, (ages 7-12).

Adult courses also available, see www.hands-onartadventures.co.uk or call 01753 206265. iFashionDesign Design and create clothes and accessories at holiday workshops for 8–14 yrs at the Beaconsfield School. Fashion parties to get creative and have fun also available. Call 07980 706574, email info@ifashiondesign.co.uk or visit www.ifashiondesign.co.uk.

ATHLETICS British Athletics has lists of local clubs. See www.british-athletics.co.uk/clubs Maidenhead Junior Athletics Club (track and field sports). Ages: 7-15. Location: Braywick Park (summer) or Courthouse Junior School, Blenheim Road (October to March). www.maidenheadac.co.uk Slough Junior Athletics Club. Athletics Coaching for 5+. Location: Thames Valley Athletics Centre, Pococks Lane, Eton. 01753 770037.

Windsor, Slough, Eton and Hounslow Athletics Club. Mini Stars Ages: 3-5 and 6-8. Track & Field Athletics Age: 9+. Location: Thames Valley Athletics Centre, Pococks Lane, Eton. 01753 686169. www.wseh.info BABY DEVELOPMENT Baby College (baby development classes). Ages: birth to 3. Locations: Royal Berks Health and Racquets club, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell. Mondays and Tuesdays. Pre-book.

07703 103783 . www.babycollege.co.uk, helen001@babycollege.co.uk.

BABY SIGN LANGUAGE TinyTalk (baby signing classes for 0-18 month babies). One term is 12 x 1 hour classes; cost £66 pre-booked. For more info contact Elaine Dennis: www.tinytalk.co.uk; elained@tinytalk.co.uk; 07876 338925.

REDROOFS THEATRE SCHOOL Locations: Bath Road, Maidenhead and School Lane, Littlewick Green and now at Novello Theatre Sunninghill Nr Ascot

*** FULL TIME PERFORMING ARTS SCHOOL FROM YEAR 6 TO 13. *** Part-time department including Saturday Afternoon Musical Theatre School, Senior Musical theatre, Audition Skills and confidence courses, RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern, Jazz Dance, Hip Hop and Street, Musical Theatre, Singing, Creative Drama Workshops. *** Singing Classes (ages 8-11 and 12-16), Toddlers tiny tutus ballet (ages 18 months -3) Dress Up and Dance (ages 3-4), Lets Act (ages 5-7), Musical Theatre (ages 4-16+), Hip Hop and Street (7-16+), Junior Acting School, Senior Acting School, Creative Drama (7-16) Junior and Senior Screen Acting (10-16+), Showbiz Workshops with West End Artistes, Onstage * Productions and shows throughout the year. * Holiday courses. * Agency representation for all pupils.

Call us: 01628 674092 • Email us: info@redroofs.co.uk Find us on Facebook and Twitter

www.redroofs.co.uk Telephone: 01628 627 586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Clubs & Classes BOARD GAMES Maidenhead Junior Chess Club (play and tuition). Ages: 5-18. Saturdays 9.30am-11.15am term time at Ridgeway School, Maidenhead Thicket. Just turn up. £3.

01491 576052. nigelwdennis@btinternet.com.

COMPUTERS FunTech- Touch Typing – a skill for life. Revolutionary, game based touch typing classes for kids & teens in Maidenhead. Highly recommended for children with dyslexia, dyspraxia and dyscalculia. FunTech also run after school computer classes for children aged 5 to 18 years. Contacts: 01628 621215/6 or email info@funtech.co.uk;www.funtech.co.uk CRICKET Lots of local cricket clubs have a junior section and coaching.

DANCE Blossom Ballet (Pre school dance for 18 months-5 years) Classes in Windsor and Maidenhead throughout the week and in Bracknell on Thursday afternoons. Free taster class for all new pupils. Contact Miss Lucy to reserve a place info@blossomballet.com.

07813084283; www.blossomballet.com Elite Academy of Dance Ballet, tap, modern, jazz, street jazz, ballroom/Latin classes in Maidenhead and our fully equipped studio in Beaconsfield for 3 yrs to adult. Call 01628 825028 or email info@eliteacademyofdance.co.uk or visit www.eliteacademyofdance.co.uk.

Hawthorne School of Dance (Classes in Ballet, Tap Modern and Street Jazz).

Classes in Windsor, Maidenhead and Bracknell. Free taster class for all new pupils.

Contact Miss Lucy to reserve a place info@hawthorneschoolofdance.com. 07813 084283; www.hawthorneschoolofdance.com JG Dance and Theatre College – ballet, jazz, acrobatics and tap for 2½-18 yrs in Caversham, Woodley, Tilehurst, Henley, Marlow, Bourne End and Twyford, Tel: 01491 572000; www.jgdance.co.uk Little Dance Flavours (Dance classes for children aged 2-5) Including styles as diverse as hip-hop, latin, zumba and Bollywood. Classes have been developed by Little Kickers (the UK's best loved pre-school activity) Classes Saturday mornings at St Piran's School Maidenhead. Weekday classes starting in Marlow. 01628 526583; www.littledanceflavourz.co.uk Pat Steel School of Dance. Weekday classes in Maidenhead, Cox Green and Windsor Leisure Centres and Saturdays at Altwood School, Maidenhead. Classes also in Holtspur, Bourne End, Loudwater and Seer Green. Ballet, street dance, modern and tap for 3yrs to adult. Call Candy Barker on 01494 673919 or email candy@patsteelschoolofdance.co.uk; www.patsteelschoolofdance.co.uk.

Popstars Dance Academy. Fun Dance Classes for ages 4-11 featuring

choreographed routines and dance techniques to current chart music and Popstar favourites – Street, Hip-Hop & Freestyle Dance. Workshops, Dance Clubs, Corporate & Community Events are available with an array of dance props. Regular classes in Iver.

Email: Arwen@PopstarsAcademy.com or call: 01753 538 525; www.PopstarsAcademy.com Tamra's Dance Classes (TDC) Commercial Street Dance Classes Age: 3 year olds through to Adults. Location: The Marlow Club (classes open to Non-members) Call: 07766584946 or email: tamralind@yahoo.co.uk; www.tamradance.com The Susan Handy School of Dancing (teaching Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Musical Theatre, Contemporary and Music & Movement). Ages: 21⁄2 to adults. Locations: Eton, Datchet, Pyrford, Old Windsor, Windsor and Woking. Book termly, call: 07515 270432. www.susanhandydance.co.uk; email office@susanhandydance.co.uk Melody Bear, pre-school dance movement classes for children 18 months plus.

Location: Boyne Hill Cricket Club.Little Bear Steps, 10am, Wednesdays. The classes are theme based and encourage your child to move imaginatively, gain confidence and develop spatial awareness. Child must be accompanied. Drop-in. Bear Cubs, 2pm, Wednesdays. A class designed for children who have gained confidence and need more structured dance classes introducing early ballet technique.This class is charged half-termly. Call Louise on 01628 788198.

Orchard Academy of Dance and Theatre Arts (L.I.S.T.D. Ballet, Tap, Modern Theatre Dance, Street Dance, Musical Theatre Classes & Adult Tap). Pupils can join at any age from rising 3’s to early 20’s. St Andrew’s Church Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges SL2 4LN. 01753 663484, email info@OrchardAcademy.com. www.OrchardAcademy.com.

Bollywood Dance (classical dance mixed with a more contemporary style) Ages 6+ years. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 682555; www.nordenfarm.org

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Clubs & Classes Elizabeth Fenton School of Dancing (ballet, modern, tap, national and jazz). Age: 3+. Location: Four Marlow Road, Maidenhead. 01628 625343.

Kathak Dance (classical dance from Northern India). Ages 4 – 18 years. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 682555 Norden Exposure Youth Dance (contemporary dance) No previous experience necessary. Age: Junior Norden Exposure, 9 – 14 years, Norden Exposure Academy, 15+ years. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 682555; www.nordenfarm.org Twinkle Tots Dance. No obligation taster sessions available.Venues: Windsor, Sunningdale, and Dorney, Classes: Twinkle Tots Dance (Age 2-4), Budding Ballerinas (Age 4-5) RAD Ballet ( Age 5 up). Twinkle Tappers (Age 3-4 Windsor only) Pre-Primary Tap (Age 4-6 Windsor only) www.twinkletotsdance.com, Email: info@twinkletotsdance.com, or call Maggie on: 07828 857061 FOOTBALL Little Kickers offers fun, football classes for 18 months to 7 year olds in a non-competitive environment. For Ascot, Langley, Windsor and Eton call

Gymnastics for ages 2-3 and 3-4. Gymnastics for under 5’s, 45 min classes at £4.50.

Classes run term time and follow the British Gymnastics badge scheme and development program. 776/777 Buckingham Avenue, Slough; call 01753 257588/ 07916 143594; or email info@sloughgymnastics.co.uk; www.sloughgymnastics.co.uk HOCKEY Maidenhead Hockey Club. Age: 6-18. Location: Maidenhead and Bray Sports Club, High Street, Bray. 01628 622669. www.maidenheadhc.org.uk HORSES AND HORSE-RIDING Colts and Fillies Club at Ascot Racecourse. Free membership for racegoers under 16 who receive badge and binoculars, and Turf Talk newsletters every quarter, with clubs news and details of family days. Members also get access to an exclusive viewing at the Parade Ring and a behind the scenes tour. 0870 727 1234; www.coltsandfillies.co.uk Windsor Horse Rangers (voluntary organisation that teaches children about riding and looking after horses). They have a two year waiting list. Age: 8+. Location: Forest Green Road, Fifield. 01628 636255. www.windsor-horse-rangers.org.uk ICE SKATING Slough Ice Arena (ice skating lessons). Age: under-5s; 6-16. Location: Montem Lane, Slough. 01753 894810.

LANGUAGES Little Learners’ Spanish Club. Learn Spanish and have fun! Toddlers, pre-school and primary. Paint, sand, song and fun. Call Gady on 07533 339160; www.totalspanish.co.uk Discover Dutch. fun activities, games and songs in Dutch for 2-8 yrs in Marlow, also private tuition, 07948 246 281; www.discoverdutch.co.uk.

MARTIAL ARTS The Samurai Fitness Group. Children's Kickboxing and Kung Fu. Ages: 3-4, 4-6, 7-12 years. Locations: Cookham, Maidenhead, Tylers Green, High Wycombe, Chalfont St Peter, Marlow & Slough. Call Matt Collins on 0207 3857547 or 07828 534817; www.TheSamuraiFitnessGroup.com.

074121 66686 or e-mail sleslie@littlekickers.co.uk.

For Maidenhead, Bourne End, Henley and Marlow call 01628 526584 or email bevans@littlekickers.co.uk. To enrol go to www.littlekickers.co.uk FITNESS Let’s go Mummy Buggy Class! A fun new exercise class which allows mummy and baby to exercise together. Suitable from 8 weeks to crawling. Location: Maidenhead.

For further info visit www.gofigure.org.uk or call Sarah 07938 588029.

Go Figure offers a range of Pilates classes to suit all abilities and lifestyles. Classes include Pilates (all levels), Pregnancy Pilates, Buggy Classes and Pelvic Floor courses. To find out more or to sign up for a class today visit. www.gofigure.org.uk or call Sarah 07938 588029 Sima’s Action Kids (fun fitness classes set to music). Age: walking to 5. For more information contact 07956 993 439. www.simasactionkids.com GYMNASTICS Gymtots (pre-school gymnastics). Age: walking to 3+, accompanied by adult. Location: Altwood School, Maidenhead, 10am Wednesday to Saturday. 07957 223 124 Gymtots (advanced class). Age: 3-5 years, unaccompanied. Location: Altwood School, Maidenhead at 3pm, Weds. 07957 223 124.

Maidenhead Gymnastics Club Age: Boys 5-8 years; Girls 5 – 13 years. Location: Altwood School, Maidenhead, after school and Saturdays. 07957 223 124 Phoenix Gymnastics. Ages: teeny gym, 18 months to 3 years, mini gym, 3-5 years, bridging class, 5-7 years, recreational gym, 7+. Location: Maidenhead Road, Windsor.

01628 778881; www.phoenixgym.co.uk Slough Gymnastics Club. General Gymnastics for age 4-Adult. After school and Saturday classes, starting at £6 per hour. Gymlets “mini’s” and “mighty’s”. Pre-school

Slough Gymnastics Club l

l

l

Telephone: 01628 627 586

A British Gymnastics club providing: Opportunities to achieve in a happy, safe environment.

British Gymnastics badge scheme and development programs.

Classes for all ... ages 2-102!!

See our moves online and come and visit our dedicated facility ... email: info@sloughgymnastics.co.uk Tel 01753 532 176 Tel 0788 44 77 013

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

9

Clubs & Classes Learn to swim the eZee way in just 4 weeks • children and adults private one to one • all ages and abilities • standard swimmers and triathletes lessons start from just £15

T: 01344885675 or 07766258279 www.ezeeswim.co.uk • info@ezeeswim.co.uk

Ascot, King Edwards Hall on Thursdays

MUSIC Hartbeeps and Babybeeps. Original multi-sensory music classes using song play, lighting effects, innovative props and puppetry. From birth to 4-year-olds.

Mondays at Clewer Youth & Community Centre, Windsor. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 4 Marlow Road, Maidenhead. Thursdays at Jennett's Park Community Centre, Bracknell. Contact Liz at liz@hartbeeps.com or call 07985 935662 or 01628 639727; www.hartbeeps.com Jo Jingles. The UK's leading music and movement group for preschool children.For classes in Maidenhead, Burnham, Twyford, Henley and Windsor please call Andreas on 07590434016, email jojingleswam@btinternet.com or visit www.jojingles.com/windsor. Andreas is offering all parents the opportunity to try the Jo Jingles experience by offering a special introductory offer of 3 classes for £10 with no obligation to continue after.

Special offer for babies from 3m-6m (Offers are valid to new customers only and are subject to availability).For classes in Marlow, Beaconsfield, Marlow and High Wycombe call Val on 01494 814174; www.jojingles.co.uk/beaconsfield. For classes in Winkfield Row, Bracknell & Forest Park call Jackie on 01344 484473; www.jojingles.com/ascot.

Kodály Music School of Runnymede (kindermusik classes; tuition in violin, piano, flute, recorder and saxophone). Age: 2-18+. Locations:Various venues in Egham area. Nikhil Dally, 01932 241196. www.dally.org.uk/KMR MAD Academy - Music-And-Dance classes using songs, rhythms, instruments, listening games and props for children from 3 months to 4 years at locations throughout the Families area. Education that’s high-octane and fun. We do great Birthday Parties too!

For Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley and Charvil call Emma on 0118 979 2695 or email emma.lelliott@madacademy.com.

For Windsor, Ascot, Sunningdale and Hedgerley Village nr Farnham Common call Kate on 01753 830162 or email kate.lawrence@madacademy.com; www.madacademy.com Music Matters. Not a franchise, Music Matters is a fun, active music group led by a qualified Kodaly music teacher. Ages: babies to 12 years. Location: Maidenhead, Wednesday a.m and Friday p.m. Also, 4 to 12 year olds in Maidenhead after school, Tuesdays. Booking required.

First lesson free. 01628 622651. www.lynsmusicmatters.co.uk.

Music with Mummy classes are a brilliant way to have fun with your little one, encourage learning and make new friends in small classes. Ages 0 - 5 years.Jolly babies classes are specially designed for ages 0 - 12 months. Classes are small, calm and gentle. Perfect for their first venture out.To join in the fun contact: Jackie for classes in Windsor on 01344 301954/07981127387.

Caroline for classes in Ascot and Sunningdale area on 01753 850772 .Katie for classes in Maidenhead 01628 667441. Alison for classes in Datchet 01753 540949 Stepping Notes Music School (structured

A fantas c and FUN way to encourage children to get ac ve and play tennis • Combines music, tennis and pictures into an interac ve learning ac vity • Weekly 50 minutes session available in various venues. Sign up for a single lesson or a course • Encourages co-ordina on, confidence and sportsmanship, while ge ng kids ac ve • Led by a LTA registered coach • Holiday camps available

21⁄2 – 6 year olds

For further informa on or to book a session call 0845 643 1173 or email: doug@teddytennis.com

www.teddytennis.com

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

programme of group musicianship classes for children).

Ages: 2-8. Location: Jurgens Centre, 91 Harvest Road, Englefield Green. Nikhil Dally, 01932 241196. www.dally.org.uk/steppingnotes Taplow Choirs (four choirs, for young children, boys and girls). Ages: 7-19. Location: Taplow village centre.

Turn up on Saturday in term time for children’s and boy’s choir. Auditions for girls and youth. 07799 413 746. www.taplowchoirs.org.uk Teddies Music Club. Live music, action songs, instruments and refreshments. Age 0-5. Drop in sessions no need to book. Locations: Maidenhead, Marlow, Twyford and Windsor. For Maidenhead, Marlow and Windsor call 01628 671146 or 639878; for Twyford call 01628 825315. For info see www.teddiesmusicclub.co.uk Tabla (the art of Indian Drumming). Age: none specified. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts.

Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 788997. www.nordenfarm.org ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM. Music classes for the under5's held weekly in Maidenhead, Burnham, Cookham,Taplow and Pinkneys Green. Call or Text Julie Zoom on 07740431377 or go to www.zoommusicclub.com for price, venues and class info.

NATURE Iver Nature Study Centre. nature-based craft and acitivity sessions for children aged 5 to 11 during the holidays. 01895 270730. www.ivernature.com Braywick Wildlife Watch Group (hands-on education in wildlife and the environment, run by the Royal Borough). Ages: 7-12. Braywick Nature Centre, Hibbert Road, Maidenhead. 01628 777440.

NETBALL Maidenhead & District Junior Netball. Ages 7-14.

Locations: Maidenhead, Windsor and Ascot. www.maidenheadnetballleague.co.uk ORIENTEERING Berkshire Orienteers (events held once a month from September to April at various locations) Ages: 3+ with an adult. www.bko.org.uk PERFORMING ARTS Dramatix Productions run fun and innovative drama and LAMDA workshops for ages 4-18 in Ascot at King Edwards Hall on Thursdays. Book now for a Free trial.

Janine Coello 07886 918 492; www.dramatixproductions.co.uk Perform (weekly dance, drama and singing workshops). Ages: 4-8. Perform Plus. Ages 8-12.

Locations: over 100 including Maidenhead, Windsor, Eton Marlow, Cookham Dean, Twyford,Virginia Water and Warfield. Free trial session. 0845 400 1282. www.perform.org.uk Free trial session.

Redroofs Theatre School Full Time Performing Arts School from Year 6 to 13. Part-time department including Saturday Afternoon Musical Theatre School, Senior Musical theatre, Audition Skills and confidence courses, RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern, Jazz Dance, Hip Hop and Street, Musical Theatre, Singing, Creative Drama Workshops. Singing Classes (ages 8-11 and 12-16), Toddlers tiny tutus ballet (ages 18 months -3) Dress Up and Dance (ages 3-4), Lets Act (ages 5-7), Musical Theatre (ages 4-16+), Hip Hop and Street (7-16+), Junior Acting School, Senior Acting School ,Creative Drama (7-16)Junior and Senior Screen Acting (10-16+), Showbiz Workshops with West End Artistes , Onstage Productions and shows throughout the year.Holiday courses. Agency representation for all pupils. Locations: Bath Road, Maidenhead and School Lane, Littlewick Green and now at Novello Theatre Sunninghill Nr Ascot Call 01628 674092; www.redroofs.co.uk Stagecoach (singing, acting and dancing). Ages: 4-6 years and 6-18 years. Locations: the whole Families area. For Ascot call 0845 055 6369; Maidenhead 0118 950 0999; Bracknell 01753 664105; Bracknell Warfield 0845 055 6382; High Wycombe and Marlow 01494 533 203; Staines 0845 055 6356; Windsor 0845 293 7207; www.stagecoach.co.uk Norden Lights Youth Theatre Age: Junior Norden Lights, 6-9 years, Norden Lights 10-15 years and 16+ years. Location: Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 01628 682555 REMOTE CONTROL Slough RC Model Club. Ages: all, but junior members must be accompanied by a club official. Location: Upton Court Park, Slough. www.srcmc.co.uk

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Blossom Ballet

The Elizabeth Fenton School of Dancing

For a FREE taster class or for further information please contact Lucy: 07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com

The School holds children’s dance classes at Four Marlow Road, Maidenhead, with special Pre-School Ballet classes.

Older children can enjoy Ballet, Jazz, Modern, National and Tap classes.

Blossom Ballet Playful, imaginative dance for 18 month - 5 years

Blossom Ballet and its syllabi were created specifically for babies, toddlers and young children.

• New Classes Added • New Weekend Classes • ISTD Ballet and Tap • Tap Dance 4 years+

Blossom Ballet is about having lots of fun and making new friends.

All Teachers are R.A.D or I.S.T.D. Registered.

Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Birch Hill and Maidenhead.

Enquiries Tel: 01628 625343

Play sessions for under-5s at the Phoenix Gymnastics Club Have fun in this fully equipped gym with your kids.

Sessions Monday: 10.30-11.30 Tuesday to Friday: 9.30 -10.30 & 11.00–12.00 Tuesday & Thursday: 1.00-2.00pm Cost just £3.50 per child (must be accompanied by adult)

Refreshments available Phoenix Gymnastics Club Unit 1, Water Oakley Farm, Maidenhead Road, Windsor Tel:01628 778881 www.phoenixgym.co.uk

For further information please call

0845 313 3242 www.rugbytots.co.uk

ORCHARD Academy of Dance & Theatre Arts Est. 1981 – Principal: Jean Orchard L.I.S.T.D.

L RO EN W! NO

2 NEW CLASSES for BOYS & GIRLS

Street Dance & Musical Theatre Ballet ~ Tap ~ Modern Theatre Dance ~ Adult Tap Classes Outstanding Exam Results and Spectacular Shows

01753 663484 Telephone: 01628 627 586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Clubs & Classes RUGBY For details of local rugby clubs see www.rfu.com which can do a postcode search.

Rugby Tots. Weekly play session for children aged between 2 and 7 years. Location: Maidenhead, Henley, Marlow and Windsor. Call 0845 313 3242.; www.rugbytots.co.uk Maidenhead Rugby Union Football Club. Age: 5+. Location: Braywick Park Sports Ground.

Maidenhead. www.maidenheadrfc.com Scrumys (Structured 45min fun Rugby classes for 18 months to 5 year olds) in Windsor and Maidenhead, contact David on 07917 357102 or 01753 248548 or email david@procinctu.co.uk; www.scrumys.co.uk SKIING / SNOWBOARDING Bracknell Ski and Snowboard Centre (skiing lessons for 4+; snowboarding for 10+).

Location: John Nike Leisure Centre, Bracknell. 01344 789 002. www.nikegroup.co.uk SCHOOL SUPPORT Numberfit. Mathematics workout for preschool, KS1 and KS2, in schools and afterschool/weekend classes in Amersham, Beaconsfield/Gerrards Cross, High Wycombe/Marlow, Maidenhead/Windsor. Call 020 8123 3996, email enquiries@numberfit.com or visit www.numberfit.com.

The Reading Eggs programme has been created to help children aged 3-7 to learn to read and further develop those skills. The program is all online and can be used on a computer, laptop and most tablets making it instantly attractive to children. For a 5 week free trial visit www.readingeggs.co.uk, and enter the code UKB24TVE. Speech & Language Coach. Qualified Speech and Language Therapist offering one to one coaching to enhance children’s language development or in the interim before NHS Speech Therapy can start. For additional info contact Amelia d’Apice (BSc Hons).Tel: 07947 306959 SWIMMING eZee Swimming, learn to swim in just 4 weeks. Private one-to-one lessons for children and adults. All ages and abilities, from standard swimmers to triatheletes. Lesssons start from just £15. Call 01344 885675 or 07766258279; www.ezeeswim.co.uk Swimming Nature. Come and experience learning to swim in the luxurious Marriott Hotel Heathrow Windsor. This 5 star hotel offers the very best in Leisure and Recreation to members and non members. Swimming Nature's educational learn to swim programmes are available all week and at weekends too. Children aged 3-15 are taught how to swim correct strokes from the outset. No ugly strokes or uncoordinated swimming here!

Baby courses are also available for ages 6 months to 3 years. We are offering a free gift to all clients who sign up for the Autumn Term at Marriott Heathrow Windsor, before 15th September 2012. Quote SWIM when you call to book. For up to date availability and advice on the best class for your child please call 08445 040506;www.swimmingnature.com Turtle Tots, swimming for babies and toddlers. Classes in Maidenhead, Farnham Royal, High Wycombe, and Old Windsor. Also Turtle Tums Aqua Yoga for pregnant mums, classes in Maidenhead. Call 01628 785 236 or 07823 885328 or email jodi.oconnor@turtletots.com or visit www.turtletots.com Seriously FUN Swimming Schools. Age: Swim Babies (4-36 months), Juniors (3-12 years), Academy (12+). Locations: Crowne Plaza, Marlow; Teikyo Japanese School, Wexham, Slough; St Piran’s School, Maidenhead; Burnham Beeches Hotel, Burnham; The Thames Club, Staines; Maplewood School, High Wycombe. 0844 35 11 461. www.seriouslyfun.com

GYMTOTS! PRE-SCHOOL GYMNASTICS

FUN + SAFE + CHALLENGING Classes for Children walking to 3 years plus.

Enjoy participating with your child in our safe indoor environment with its exciting up-to-date play equpment, based within the Altwood School, Maidenhead. Every day at 10am from Wednesday to Saturday. Our programme has been developed through more than 28 years’ experience with young children and their parents. Gymtots will enable your child to gain confidence by expanding their physical ability, coordination and social skills, with your involvement and under the guidance of our experienced staff. Our advanced class for 3 to 4 years plus, without parent participation, on Wednesdays at 3pm, is more structured and builds upon the earlier classes.

Telephone

12

07 957 223 124 for details

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

TENNIS Delgado Tennis (junior coaching lead by Paul Delgado, former England Junior player).

Age 4-16 years. Locations: St Piran’s School and the Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead; and Wycombe High Grammar School and Widmer End Lawn Tennis Club in High Wycombe. Now coaching at Hurley & Horsenden tennis clubs too. All 10 and unders go indoors after half-term. See website for lesson times and bookings.

Call: 07818 052 206. www.delgadotennis.co.uk UNIFORMED To find your local Guides (ages 10-14 years), Brownies (ages 7-10) and Rainbows (ages 5-7 years), call 0800 169 5901. www.girlguiding.org.uk To find your local Scouts (ages 10-14 years), Cubs (ages 8-10 years) and Beavers (ages 6-8 years), call 0845 300 1818. www.scouts.org.uk St John Badgers (first aid, arts and crafts, games, run by St John Ambulance). Ages: 5-10 years. Locations: various. St John Ambulance Cadets. Ages: 10-18. Locations: various. Berks 0118 933 5500; Bucks 01296 744360. www.sja.org.uk The Boys Brigade and the Girls Brigade (games, crafts, sport, music, holidays and Christian teaching): Ages: 5-18 years. 01442 231681 (boys). www.boys-brigade.org.uk.

01235 510425 (girls). www.girlsb.org.uk The Sea Cadets (fun, friendship and adventure with water-borne activities). Age: 10-18 years (junior section, 10-12 years). Locations: include Mill Lane Taplow (01628 623089), Wethered Road, Marlow (01628 475629) and Stovell Road, Windsor (01753 860022). seacadets.ms-sc.org.

WATERSPORTS Longridge Activity Centre, climbing, fencing, rowing, sailing, kayaking, bell boating and paddle sport, café, training rooms and new accommodation. Age 6-106 years.

Location: Marlow. After school, weekends and school holidays. 01628 483252. www.longridge.org.uk Bray Lake Watersports Junior Club (windsurfing,dinghy sailing and kayaking) Age 8+. 01628 638860; www.braylake.com YOGA AND MEDITATION Mummy and baby Yoga (safely rebuild core strength, stabilise lower back and pelvis, release upper back along with gentle yoga stretches and rhymes for babies) 6 weeks to crawling, classes in Burnham and Marlow. 07954 578 439. www.phenixyoga.com Pregnancy Yoga (boost energy, ease stress, relieves aches and pains, cultivates breath awareness, prepare physically and emotionally to give birth) 13-42 weeks pregnant, classes in Burnham and Marlow. 07954 578 439. www.phenixyoga.com.

CLASSES AT THE LEISURE CENTRES Bourne End Junior Sports Club, New Road, Bourne End. 01628 528110.

Badminton (12+), basketball (8+), canoeing (8+), climbing (6+), football (5+), judo (6+), inline hockey (under 13 – under 19), swimming (6+).

Charters Leisure Centre, Charters Road, Sunningdale. 01344 628686. trampolining, beginners and advanced (ages 6-12 years), gymnastics (6-14 years), netball (ages 8-14 years).

Court Garden Leisure Centre, Pound Lane, Marlow. 01628 405200. swimming lessons(18 months +). Water Babies also available. www.leisurecentre.com Egham Leisure Centre,Vicarage Road, Egham. 01784 437695. Tiny Tots (soft play, trampolining) for ages 1 to 5 years); Toddlers Tramp (trampolining for ages 3-4) and Toddlers Gym (games, singing and basic gymnastics for ages 3-4 years); Trampolining (4-10), gymnastics (4-10 years); Egham 5s Football Coaching (4-10 years, boys and girls). www.eghamleisurecentre.co.uk Evreham Sports Centre, Swallow Street, Iver. 01753 672610. Trampolining (ages 5+); street dancing ( 8 – 14), www.better.org.uk Langley Leisure Centre, Parlaunt Road, Langley. 01753 478666. SwimSkool, lessons for ages 3 months+. www.synergyclubs.co.uk Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead. 01628 685335. Boys soccer (4-10 years), trampolining (3+), mini tennis (4-10 years), badminton (8-12), netball (7-11 years), Basketball (6-12 years). Swimming lessons (6 months +), roller disco (5+). www.rbwm.gov.uk Montem Leisure Centre, Slough. 01753 894700. Swimskool (parent and toddler or 3+ unaccompanied), and gymnastics (3+).

Windsor Leisure Centre, Stovell Road, Windsor. 01753 778577. Ballet (3-11 years), trampolining (3-12 years), football (5-11 years), Royals Netball Club (10-16), Junior Netball (6-10 years), gymnastics (3-10 years). www.rbwm.gov.uk Details correct at time of going to press: August 2012.

You can view this directory online at www.familietveast.co.uk/clubsandclasses2012

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Clubs & Classes

Ascot, Langley, Windsor & Eton 07412 166 686

Exciting live music for babies and children!

Drop in anytime to our friendly singing sessions A singer and musician will lead the group in a lively session with fresh, new songs from all around the world, old favourites too!

Watch your children’s confidence and musicality grow as they join in with action songs, knee-bouncers, dances, instruments and performance songs.

Free refreshments and time to chat after each session.

Maidenhead, Marlow, Windsor Tel: 01628-671146 or 639878 Twyford Tel: 01628-825315 For further information visit www.teddiesmusicclub.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Clubs & Classes News A ZOOMING NEW CLASS Did you know that all children are musical?

Have you ever wondered what you could do to nurture the musical growth of your child, regardless of your own musical ability?

Based on childhood development and music education research, ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM provides an innovative approach to early childhood music education, fuelled by a passion and love for children and music.

The classes create a stimulating, playful and relaxed learning environment. Each child participates at their own level by singing, moving, listening, watching, exploring musical instruments, having fun with finger puppets and sometimes just letting loose on the dance floor or jamming on percussion!

Founder, Julie Zoom, says, “I believe strongly in parental participation. Our class is a great opportunity to let your hair down and participate with gusto! You’ll soon see how easily you connect musically with your child.”

ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM is all about using music to bring friends and families together and creating a special focused time for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and the adults who care for them.

To find out more about classes in Maidenhead, Burnham, Cookham,Taplow and Pinkneys Green call or text Julie Zoom - 07740431377 or visit the website www.zoommusicclub.com

WIZARDS AND WITCHES WANTED AT PERFORM

JO JINGLES COMES TO COOKHAM Jo Jingles, the UK's leading music and movement classes for preschool children, is opening new classes in Cookham at the Wesley Hall and at the Cookham Rise Methodist Church this September.

Come and have musical fun with Jo and his friends. Our carefully selected themes follow the Early Learning Goals and are taught in such a way that the children learn while they are having fun.

Spaces are strictly limited so please call Andreas on 07590434016 or email jojingleswam@btinternet.com to find out more and book your place. Special introductory offer for all new customers.

Half price offer for babies aged 3 to 6 months.

SCRUMYS IS EXPANDING New rugby themed classes for 18 month to 5 year olds have started in Maidenhead.

Scrumys has been running classes for just under a year now and has associations with both Windsor and Maidenhead rugby clubs as a pathway through to mini rugby.

They run fun, structured classes, which teach the children fundamental skills needed for rugby. Scrumys also offers flexibility and allows parents to roll over classes to the next weekend if needed, ensuring that it is an enjoyable experience for both the children and the parents. To book classes in Maidenhead or Windsor call 07917357102 or go to www.scrumys.co.uk

Local children are invited to don their wizard robes, seize their magic wands and and enter the wonderful world of Arthurian legends with Perform this autumn term. Their unique drama, dance and singing workshops will be filled with thrills, spills and laughter.

They have classes in Maidenhead, Windsor, Eton Marlow, Cookham Dean, Twyford,Virginia Water and Warfield.

Perform offer a free trial session for 4 to 8 year olds. For more information ring 0845 400 1282 or go to www.perform.org.uk

HARTBEEPS EXPANDS TO WINDSOR & BRACKNELL Hartbeeps, the magical music and sensory classes for preschoolers and babies, has launched sessions in Windsor and Bracknell.

The drop-in classes will be at the Clewer Youth & Community Centre in Windsor on Mondays, and Jennett's Park Community Centre in Bracknell on Thursdays in September and onwards. First-timers can come for a free taster, contact Liz on 07985 935662; www.hartbeeps.com

DANCE SCHOOL CELEBRATES 59 YEARS The Pat Steel School of Dance continues to expand with classes now offered in ballet, tap, modern and street dance throughout the week in Windsor, Maidenhead, Cox Green, Holtspur, Bourne End, Loudwater and Seer Green.

Classes in ballet continue to expand at the Magnet and Windsor Leisure Centres.

Their newest branch at Cox Green Leisures Centre offers dance training that includes, drama, modern and tap.You can also do beginner’s adult tap for anyone who want to be put a bit of showbiz into their Monday evenings Camps are also planned for Christmas and Easter. Pupils are able to take examinations in their chosen fields and are taught by fully qualified professional dance teachers. There are lots of opportunities for everyone to perform, whether at an end-of-term demonstration, as a dancer in next year’s show at the Wycombe Swan, or a charity event requiring entertainment.

For more info, call Candy Barker on 01494 673919 or email candy@patsteelschoolofdance.co.uk.

HOWLAND TUTORS (MAIDENHEAD/MARLOW and WINDSOR/SLOUGH areas) Specialist Baby & Toddler Swimming Classes Aqua-Natal Yoga Classes For more information call Jodi on: 07823 885328 / 01628 785236 or email: Jodi.oconnor@turtletots.com www.turtletots.com Come out of your shell and learn to swim the Turtle Tots Way!

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Expanding local agency (established in 1998 and owned by highly experienced teachers)

offers individual tuition in twenty subjects including: all primary; Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English, French, Geography, History, Latin, Maths and Physics. Further tutors welcome Tel. (01628) 477164 www.howlandtutors.co.uk

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Back to School Special

How to encourage reading

Photo: www.marksandspencer.com

By Elisabeth Dolton

Many of us know the value and enjoyment of reading. Good readers become better writers, better learners and well rounded individuals. Taking an active part in helping your children become interested in reading is vital.

Despite busy days, tired kids, limited time and many distractions, we outline five simple steps that can help.

Step one - Set up reading time every day Decide when and where a reading session will take place, which fits into your household schedule, and keep it. 10 minutes is fine.

Encourage your child to read aloud. They don’t have to get every word right, and praise them often. If they are discouraged by their own reading, you read aloud. The pleasure of listening to you read can restore their enthusiasm. Offer to read every other sentence, page, chapter, and have conversations and discussions about the content.

Make it fun. Children love sound effects, different voices, pulling faces.

Step two – During reading time Introduce the bookmark Stop after a few pages and pick up where you left off at another time Provide an accessible, special place for children to keep their own books Use special incentives, e.g. an extra 5 minutes to finish a chapter, a promise to take them to see the film of the book, sticker charts and certificates Notice what attracts your children's attention, even if it’s only pictures, and build on that interest. Gather more information on the same subject.

Listen to audio books (in the car too). These help develop visualisation, a critical pre-reading skill.

Let them choose their own books. Don’t worry the books are too young or too easy, early reading success can came from several "nontraditional" sources such as comics.

Buy a special notebook and record all the books they have read, add their thoughts and a star rating.

Step three - See the teacher and judge where they are Find out what reading program the school follows, get to know the levels, and aim to supplement the program at home.

Prepare a timetable. Know what level your child is at and the next, with some idea of when it can be achieved. There is no race to be the first to read, it just puts things into context.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Step four - Plan specific reading linked activities Extend your child's positive reading experiences, e.g. If they enjoyed reading about dinosaurs, visit the Natural History Museum.

Encourage activities that require reading, e.g. read a recipe, instructions, and directions, play games that require reading, use a reference book to look up something you have seen.

Visit the library and give your child their own library card. They can choose their own library book or listen in on story-time.

Step five – Be a role model Let your children see you reading for pleasure.

Read aloud everyday items - menus, road signs, food labels.

Give books as gifts.

Leave books, magazines, and colourful catalogues around your home.

Write short notes for your child to read.

Reading opens up new worlds to your children and gives them a chance to use their imaginations. There are many ways to encourage your child to read and your participation is key.

Helping children with learning difficulties Books and Audio Follow a book as the audio book plays. Listen to a chapter, and then read it together Turn on the TV subtitles Sub-titles on your TV or DVD help increase sight word vocabulary, whilst developing a sense of flow of written and spoken language Make your child the star of their own audio book Your child can read into a recorder, then follow the book together during playback Everyone joins in Reserve thirty minutes each evening for family reading time. Each family member reads different material and then shares information about it, or take turns reading aloud from the same book.

Support their learning Help ensure your child doesn’t get behind in reading material necessary for school subjects, ask for help with obtaining textbooks on CD ROM. Together identify unfamiliar words you come across and show your child how to look up the meanings of words.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

At Herries, ...... every child is an individual and every child is known and loved.

Come and visit the school at one of our monthly Open Mornings or arrange an individual appointment.

See our website for full details:

www.herries.org.uk Herries Preparatory School, Dean Lane, Cookham Dean, Berkshire SL6 9BD Tel: 01628 483350 Email: office@herries.org.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Getting Fit for Maths

Back to School Special The Numberfit technique All of this means that learning maths and following an active lifestyle no longer need to be separate ingredients in a child’s development.

The Numberfit children’s activity club has been developed to get young minds and bodies simultaneously in shape by combining mathematics sessions with team games and sport, providing a healthy headstart in education. The programme combines fitness, short lesson bursts, visual, auditory and kinesthetic teaching styles, team games and competitions in a fun environment, with innovative and creative sessions designed to stimulate and engage children. So Fitness + maths = success.

Can physical exercise boost your child’s academic performance? Numberfit introduces a new technique, designed to get your kids active and improve their mathematical skills, all at the same time. The classes have impressed a local education authority in London so much that they are introducing the classes to their curriculum this September, as part of a pilot scheme.

Numberfit is available for all children aged 2½ to 11, with groups for preschool and Key Stages 1 and 2. Classes running in schools and nurseries as well as out of school classes and birthday parties. Currently in Marlow, Amersham, Beaconsfield as well as starting classes in Maidenhead and Windsor and other areas. For information regarding sessions for your child or your child’s school or nursery check out the demonstration video at www.numberfit.com and call 020 8123 3996.

athematics is one of those essential skills, which permeates all areas of life, from splitting the bill in a restaurant to deciding how to strike the cue ball in a game of snooker. Like most parents, you’ve probably wished that your kids could perform basic arithmetic confidently and accurately, and perhaps looked forward to the day when they’ll be able to perform more complex calculations in their heads without the need for a calculator or parental assistance.

With a bit of innovative educational thinking, it turns out that parents may be able to help bring that day closer than they might have imagined. Up until now, maths has been taught using traditional classroom methods, with some help from computer software. There’s increasing scientific evidence, however, that increased physical exercise can have a markedly positive effect on children’s academic performance – and that a new approach combining physical and mathematical exercises can have a markedly positive influence on children’s development.

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Active + maths = brighter kids Strange though it may initially sound, combining maths teaching with fitness exercises can have a dramatic effect on children’s mental abilities. It’s perhaps not so surprising when you think about it.

Children have bundles of energy, so instead of having them sitting motionless at a desk in a classroom, why not use this bundled-up energy as a teaching tool? (while also benefiting from the side-effect of helping to keep our children fit and healthy). Studies show that students who spend longer doing PE improve their grades, even though they potentially receive less classroom instruction time than students in control groups. Here are a few of the innovative techniques, which can be used to enhance the learning experience.

Maths + movement = better learning Children’s concentration decreases as lesson length increases – the longer they spend sitting at a desk, the less they learn. Splitting lessons up with short breaks featuring physical activities and games designed to reinforce what they’ve just been taught, however, significantly improves overall concentration levels, learning and general enjoyment.

Maths + sport = better memory Maths can be a social rather than a solitary activity, and energetic team games can be used to reinforce learning. Research shows that the strong emotions produced during competitive sports and games stimulate the release of adrenaline, which in turn enhances memory in learning.

Maths + different learning styles = better lessons Children have different learning styles. All the various learning styles can be used together to keep children stimulated by involving all their senses, whether they’re a visual learner, an auditory learner, a reading/writing preference learner or a kinesthetic (tactile) learner.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Back to School Special

Moving on...

The transition from primary to secondary school is an anxious time for parents and children. Here’s how to make it a smooth one. By Margaret Ansell. uring the primary school years, it’s fairly easy to support your child at school.You’ll probably know their teacher and other members of staff and parents, as well as being familiar with school policies and routines. The thought of losing the control this familiarity offers is as daunting for parents as it is for children and you may well wonder how best to continue to support your child.

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You may also worry specifically about your child’s ability to cope with the new environment and crucially, whether they will make friends.Your anxieties may be eased by adopting strategies that help with the transition. Here are some tips and tools which should help you prepare for and manage the early months.

1. Shield your child from your anxiety. They can make this transition. Critically, they need to know that you believe in them and their ability to deal with difficulties and challenges.

2. Be There Make sure a parent or trusted carer is available before and after school – to provide food, notice if your child comes in late, listen to their successes and concerns and be aware of subtle changes in mood; someone to empathise and with whom to discuss problems. Watch and listen, help out if asked but don’t take over. Become an Enabler rather than a Fixer.

3. Support the development of friendships It’s important to older children that they mix socially and establish secure friendships and they need to do this while still young enough to turn to you for support when they make mistakes. Gradually they’ll learn to make informed choices about friends. It’s appropriate for this age group to have access to a basic mobile phone and computer, but the dangers of social networking should be discussed and boundaries agreed upon.

4. Support organisation and routines. Create ‘To Do Lists’ or ‘Timetables’ for the fridge, agree places to keep bags, kit and books.

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Label uniform and valuables. Establish routines so they can get to school punctually, and then try and step back so they can get a taste of independence and responsibility. Don’t expect too much too soon, many won’t crack this for years!

5. Understand what homework they have and know when it has been completed and handed in. Agree a routine that will help your child to complete and hand in all homework on time, without devoting too much time to one piece and little or nothing to others. However, remember it’s their homework not yours – help, encourage, motivate, but accept their best.

6. Schedule time to relax. Your child will be exhausted by the effort of holding it all together. Tears are likely over the most trivial things and they may regress and demand more care. Trust that they can cope and make sure there’s time for sleep, friends, homework, more sleep, watching TV, playing computer games and yet more sleep. Avoid weekend breaks and reduce extra-curricular commitments to the minimum.

7. Lastly, schedule time to relax yourself! They will soon get used to the routine and learn to love having a more independent life.

Margaret Ansell owns and runs The Study Zone in Twickenham, visit www.thestudyzone.co.uk for more information.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Education News BRIGIDINE SCHOOL WINDSOR - NOW TAKING BOYS

OVER TWO DECADES OF MONTESSORI EDUCATION Meadowbrook Montessori School has been delivering robust, child-centred education for over 20 years. Children are welcomed to the school from the time they can walk (through the weekly parent and toddler sessions), gradually increasing their sessions through the pre-primary department, continuing into primary and then graduating successfully at 11 years.

High academic standards are achieved through very small class sized and a personalised learning approach. The application of Positive Discipline© is also unique, resulting in children achieving high standards in their personal and social

behaviour and work ethic.

Montessori education is based on the fundamental belief that a child learns best within an environment that supports and nurtures their individual needs and development. The whole child is considered important and Meadowbrook’s approach marries the best of Montessori practice with many aspects of the National Curriculum, thoroughly preparing children for a wide range of secondary schools.

Meadowbrook provides a seamless route through the most important years of a child’s education. 01344 890869; www.meadowbrookmontessori.org

ONE STEP CLOSER FOR A FREE SCHOOL IN HOLYPORT

WINDSOR SCHOOLS GET THE GO AHEAD TO EXPAND

An application to create a free school on the former Holyport Manor site has been backed by the Government. It is thought that it will open in September 2014.

The Holyport Free School project has been backed by a group of influential local educators and Councilor Simon Dudley, the Royal Borough's deputy leader.

The school will be a co-educational day and boarding school for students aged 1118. For more information go to www.holyportfreeschool.com

The Royal Borough has said it will support the expansion of Windsor Boys’ and Windsor Girls’ Schools, and will similarly support governing bodies of other Windsor schools looking to expand, in a move designed to ensure there are enough upper school places in the town in the future.

In six years time (2018) the number of children needing upper school places in Windsor will start to exceed the number now available and by 2023/4 a considerable shortfall of more than 100 places is anticipated.

Brigidine School in Windsor has extended its primary education provision for boys from nursery, up to and including Year 6. Primary education at Brigidine is focused on maximising pupil choice for entrance into Year 7 by providing personalised education together with 11+ coaching.

Set in the heart of Windsor, Brigidine has over 5 acres of beautiful grounds and offers fresh air and exercise with its hard court playing surfaces, tennis courts and its close proximity to the Long Walk and Windsor Castle. The school is described by parents as having a safe, friendly and nurturing environment, which delivers an excellent early years and primary education. For working parents there is also wraparound care from 8am to 6pm.

The senior school operates with small class sizes, maximum of 20, and reviews the curriculum each year to ensure educational best practice and to keep pace with changing skill requirements of today’s world.

In addition the school also offers 11 plus tutoring on Saturday afternoons for both Brigidine pupils as well as children from other schools, for any child who wants to try the grammar school route. There are also a number of extra curricular clubs including football and Chinese on Saturdays.

The school is running a series of open days on 25th September, 13th &19th October and 21st November from 9.30am to 11.30am. Alternatively, an appointment to see the school can be made at any time. Please call the registrar on 01753 863779 or email registrar@brigidine.org.uk. Please view the website for additional information www.brigidine.org.uk

School Uniform & Sportswear Custom Clothing Solutions • School Uniforms for most schools in Maidenhead, Windsor, Slough & Burnham area • Complete Design, Embroidery, Screen printing & alteration services • Stockists of all of icial scouting and girlguiding organisations & dancewear

01628 639725 sales@goyals.co.uk www.goyalmaidenhead.co.uk 28 Bridge Street, Maidenhead Berkshire, SL6 8BJ

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Open Days

Schools’ Noticeboard

Independent School Open Days

Maidenhead. Independent CLAIRES COURT SCHOOLS, boys 4-11years, eway Ridg Day Schools for boys and girls.

– 16 years, Ray Mill 11 boys rt Cou es Maidenhead Thicket; Clair ery – 3-5 years, girls – 4-16 Road East; The College, (co-ed nurs years) 1 College Avenue. years, and co-ed sixth form – 16-18 dnesday 3 October, We sites all OPEN MORNINGS at 12noon (nursery from Thursday 8 November, 9.30am to N EVENING at Claires 9.30am to 11.30am). Senior Boys’ OPE to 8.30pm. Senior Girls’ pm 6.30 er.

Court, Thursday 8 Novemb at the College, Wednesday and Sixth Form OPEN EVENING 01628 411472; 28 November, 6.30pm to 8.30pm. www.clairescourt.com. , Windsor. Independent day BRIGIDINE SCHOOL, Kings Road 2-18 years. OPEN school for boys aged 2-11 and girls ber, Saturday 13 October, MORNING Tuesday 25 Septem 21 November, from rday Satu Friday 19 October and .brigidine.org.uk www 79; 8637 3 0175 .

9.30am to 11.30am DAY SCHOOL, 35 Eton ETON END PREPARATORY ol for boys aged 3-7 years scho Road, Datchet. Independent day Friday 5 October, and girls aged 3-11 years. OPEN DAY .etonend.org.

9.30am to 2.30pm. 01753 541075; www rbourne Lane, Fulmer.

Alde L, FULMER INFANT SCHOO am. 01753 662654 9.30 er, emb Nov 8 y OPEN DAY Thursda ; www.fulmer.bucks.sch.uk. or email office@fulmer.bucks.sch.uk irm attendance.

Please email or call the school to conf OOL, Shrubbery SCH RY ATO GODSTOWE PREPAR day and boarding school for Road, High Wycombe. Independent years. OPEN DAY boys aged 3-7 years and girls aged 3-13 pm. 01494 529273; 1.00 to 0am Saturday 13 October, 10.0 www.godstowe.org

HERRIES SCHOOL, Dean Lane , Cookham Dean. Co-ed preparatory school and nursery, 3-11 years. OPEN MORNING Wednesday 26 September and We dnesday 24 October, 9.30am to 11.00am. Stay & Play sess ions for under-4s (must be accompanied by an adult), Every Mon day from 10 September to 10 December (excluding 24 & 31 Oct ober), 9.30am to 11.00am.

01628 483350; www.herries.org.uk.

HIGHFIELD SCHOOL, West Road , Maidenhead. Independent preparatory school for girls, aged 3-11 years. OPEN DAY Friday 5 October, 9.30am to 11.30am. Satu rday 6 October, 10.00am to 12noon. 01628 624918; www.high fieldprep.org LVS ASCOT, London Road, Ascot.

A Co-educational Day & Boarding School for 4-18 year olds.

SENIOR SCHOOL SATURDAY TOUR, Saturday 22 September, 9.45am with talks by Head Teachers at 10am. SIX TH FORM SATURDAY TOUR, Saturday 13 October, boo king required for both tours, please telephone the Registrar to reserve a place. Junior & Senior School OPEN MORNING , Wednesday 24 October, 9.45am to 12noon. No booking requ ired. 01344 882770; www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk THE MARIST SCHOOLS, King s Road, Sunninghill, Ascot. A Catholic Day School for girls aged 2½ to 18 year olds. OPEN MORNING for Prep School, Wedne sday 10 October, 9.45am to 11.30am. OPEN EVENING for Senior School, Thursday 27 September, 4.30pm to 8.00pm. OPE N MORNING for Senior School, Tuesday 2 October, 10.30am to 12noon. 01344 626137 (Prep) or 01344 624291 (Senior); www .themaristschools.com.

MEADOWBROOK MONTESS ORI SCHOOL, Malt Hill, Warfield, co-educational, 18mths-12yrs . OPEN DAY Saturday 20 October, 10.30am. 01344 890 869; www.meadowbrookmontessori.org Please ring the school to check the Open

Day or Evening is still going ahead.

Fulmer Infant School Open Day Thursday 8th November 2012 9:30 am

Fulmer Infant School is a small, high achieving, friendly and happy school in a rural se ng. It benefits from small class sizes and modern resources and its results are consistently above the Buckinghamshire and Na onal averages. The staff are totally commi ed to delivering a challenging and crea ve curriculum in a very caring and nurturing environment.

Our Open Day will be start at 9:30 am with an address by the Headteacher followed by a tour of the school.

Please call or e-mail the school office to register your a endance.

Tel: 01753 662654 Email: office@fulmer.bucks.sch.uk Website: www.fulmer.bucks.sch.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Health

Keeping your kids fit for life

By Sarah El-Hawary

o what makes an Olympic Athletic?

Although several of the Olympic athletes began their sport at a very young age, the key to any child travelling down this road is making sport and exercise part of their daily routine.

Kids who are active will have stronger muscles and bones, have leaner bodies (exercise helps control body fat), are less likely to become overweight, will decrease the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol levels and have a more positive approach to life. In addition, kids who exercise regularly sleep better and are better able to handle physical and emotional challenges. Exercise and sport also play an important part of developing your child’s social skills, selfesteem and positive self-image.

Now let’s look at the amount and type of exercise your child should be taking part in.

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Pre-schoolers (3 to 5 year olds): This is a key time to develop gross motor skills, such as throwing, catching, skipping, pedalling, hopping and balancing on one foot. They should be engaged in at least 60 minutes and up to several hours per day of daily unstructured physical activity. They also recommend that a child should not be sitting for longer than an hour, unless sleeping.

5 to 7 year olds: At this age competitive sports can be introduced and rules can be and should be encouraged. Children also begin to understand team work at this age. They should engage in at least 60 minutes of aerobic activity a day and three times a week their 60 minutes should include muscle and bone strengthening exercises e.g. gymnastics, trampoling, running, football etc.

7 to 12 year olds: 60 minutes of exercise is a required daily minimum. This is when you can help your child really develop a fitness routine with

This summer Great Britain played host to the 30th Olympics Games, with 900 athletes representing Team GB and Paralympics GB. For many participants this was their first Olympics and the fruition of a life-time dream. Never in the history of British TV has there been more coverage of sport.

One could not help but be swept up in the excitement, both kids and adults alike wishing they could be taking part.

team sports that meet a few times a week as well as activities they can do at home.

For many Olympians this is the time that their passion and love of sport was ignited.

Try lots of different sports providing variety and exposure to lots of different sporting experiences. School term breaks are a great opportunity to enrol your child onto short courses allowing them to try something new without adding extra pressure into an already busy term schedule.

13 to 18 year olds: Again 60 minutes of daily exercise is recommended for this age group. This is the most important time for your child to keep up daily physical activity as the health benefits of exercise play an important role in building self-esteem and positive selfimage. Unfortunately this is the age that there is the biggest drop in daily exercise.

In order to prevent this, let them choose the exercise they want to do, allowing them some independence and the opportunity to plan group activities with their friends.

Remember there is no better way to improve your children’s potential than

ensuring they see exercise as a fundamental part of their day. Events like the Olympics can inspire our children to become great athletes, but more importantly give them a positive outlet for dealing with the daily stresses of life. With active parental encouragement from you and regular exercise by them, your child will shine like an Olympic Athlete!

Sarah is a qualified personal trainer and experienced Pilates instructor, offering a range of classes to suit all abilities and lifestyles.

Classes include her popular Let’s go Mummy Buggy Class, which enables new mums to exercise with their little ones, Pilates classes to suit all levels, Pregnancy Pilates and Pelvic Floor courses.

To find out more or to sign up for a class today visit www.gofigure.org.uk or call Sarah directly to discuss what class would be best for you (tel. 07938 588029).

MARLOW FOOT CLINIC Qualified Foot Health Practitioner Stephanie Francis SAC DIP RFHP

MEDICAL PEDICURE The 60 minute treatment gives your feet a thorough overhaul to revive the feet!

This procedure is recommended for people with corns, calluses, cracked heels, thickened nails & other minor foot conditions that require a more intensive treatment, rather than the traditional beauty salon pedicure.

CLINIC APPOINTMENTS Sunrise Haringtons CLINIC MARLOW CLINIC HENLEY Call 01628 487719 Call 07949 22 33 45

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Go Figure offers a range of Pilates classes to suit all abili es and lifestyles.

We also offer Pregnancy Pilates, Let’s Go Mummy Buggy Classes and Pelvic Floor courses, all specialising in safe and effec ve levels of exercise relevant to this stage of your life.

To find out more or to sign up for a class today visit www.gofigure.org.uk or call Sarah on 07938 588029

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Health News USING LIGHT TO BOOST YOUR HEALTH

NEW PILATES STUDIO IN SLOUGH MOOREPilates is new studio based at the West Wing on Stoke Road in Slough. The studio is near Stoke Poges and Wexham and has ample parking. They offer one-to-one private sessions, sessions on reformers and mat work. Owner and director Samantha Moore is an ex dancer and Pilates instructor. Samantha has suffered many long-term injuries throughout her career. Through training and practicing Pilates she has managed to lead a pain free and mobile lifestyle, which is the driving force behind MOOREPilates.

Her studio is dedicated to teaching clients to be aware of their body so that they are able to improve their posture, core strength and flexibility, resulting in sound movement patterns and increased functional fitness.

Pilates builds strength from the inside out. By training the complex muscles which lie in the central column of the torso, pelvis and shoulder girdle, proper alignment, improved breathing and fluid movement increases core strength.

MOOREPilates believes that using this approach will improve their client's general health and day-to-day well being.

All members of staff are qualified Pilates instructors from international leading Pilates training providers, including the Pilates Foundation and STOTTS. For more details call 07715 182474 or go to www.moorepilates.co.uk.

Adiba Ahmad runs the Lightology clinic in Holyport, she uses hot and cold light for many different health and cosmetic benefits.

Intense pulsed light generates hot light, and is a system primarily used for permanent hair reduction and skin rejuvenation, including rosacea. She has helped clients who have discovered odd hairs after pregnancy to those who have excessive hair growth due to hormonal imbalances.

Low Level Light Therapy, which uses cold light, is a system used by practitioners including chiropractors and doctors for the relief of muscle, joint pain and stiffness, relaxation of muscle tissue and increased blood circulation (one of the reasons behind many chronic conditions).

Our cells’ energy factories, the mitochondria, house ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) which is the energy centre of the cell and governs 80-90% of cellular activity. Faster and more efficient cell replication brings regeneration to target areas restoring disabled energy production. This leads to a cascade of processes that increases the recovery of damaged or poorly functioning tissue.

Adiba says, “Through my treatments I have had some incredible results including stress and anxiety relief, face lift without surgery, smoking cessation and relief from nervous habits.”.

To find out more call the clinic on 07803 042185. i ss Ta itne red zine l F u ga ta at a To s fe th m a al He

in

BOOT CAMP CLASSES

Weight loss | Toning | Improving stamina Abs and core work | Nutrition advice All levels welcome | Men and Women One-to-one personal training also offered

THE BENEFITS OF FISH OIL

ok now

Bo id Uniforms, shoes and stationery are just some of the stresses to to avotment Classes available in Maidenhead and coming appoin is d face parents at this time of year, but how do you ensure your child soon to Marlow 6 sessions for £50 - Bookings Required is on the road to a healthy development if they are a fussy eater?

Contact: info@taitotalfitness.com or 07923 438740 Recent studies have shown that children who have an omega-3 w w w . t a i t o t a l f i t n e s s . c o . u k enriched diet have a significantly higher cognitive performance, are protected against some childhood diseases and go on to have better health in adulthood. Persuading your child to eat fish 2-3 times a week can be a struggle. Nordic Naturals range of chewable gummies are an easy way to get all the benefits of omega-3s and multivitamins into Treatment of... our children’s diets. Each product is naturally • Acne • Permanent Hair Reduction fruit-flavoured and free from any fishy taste – choose from favourites like Omega-3 Gummy • Muscular and Joint Pain Relief • Skin Rejuvenation – sun damaged skin, age spots Worms and Nordic Berries.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome/RSI Nordic Naturals is available at health food • Wrinkles, Fine Lines, Pore Size Reduction • Increased Circulation stores and pharmacies.

• Rosacea and Vascular Irregularities And much more! ... www.nordicnaturals.com/uk.

BOOK NOW for advertising in our Nov/Dec issue Due out November 1st email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

All in a safe and comfortable environment for you to have life changing treatments, in complete privacy.

I have had excellent results with my treatments and can provide tes monials on request Discounts and promotions are available throughout the year Please contact me on 07803 042185 (Holyport) and don’t miss out!

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

23

Great

Competitions

Win a back-to-school labelling kit from Attach-a-Tag Fed up with sewing on labels? Check out the new labelling system from Attach-A-Tag, which promises to label your kids’ clothes quickly and easily without the use of a needle or iron. Instead you use a ‘dolphin’ shaped applicator to attach a small button to clothing.Your child’s name is permanently etched onto the button and once it’s attached, it’s there until you chose to remove it (with the integral removal tool) and use it elsewhere. The gadget is easy to use – so you can even get your children to name their own clothes – and the buttons wash and tumble dry well, too.

We have a pack to give away to one lucky reader, including a dolphin and a voucher for the recipient to order their buttons online.

You can purchase the pack from uniform shops and online at www.attachatag.com To enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

Win a Step Outside Guide Step Outside Guides are a new series of beautifully illustrated little books, which offer themed days out by foot and by bus, discovering fascinating places and wonderful surprises in the capital. We have five copies of ‘Lion Hunt’ to give away. What’s more, you’ll be exploring with a baby elephant, an octopus or a lion, and everything you encounter will be free-to-see, so you don’t need to spend a penny! Just pack up your picnic and your Step Outside Guide, and off you go.

The days are great for every age, and the books are specially designed so that children from about nine years old can hold the book and take the lead. The maps are bold and easy to follow and the explanations are simple and clear. There are things to spot and questions to consider all through the book, and restyour-Legs pages with puzzles and activities for weary moments.

Each book features an animal character, brought to life by Sam Fenn’s delightful illustrations. The animal lives on the route, and acts as your escort, highlighting his Top Treasures along the way.

Win Tickets To Odds Farm Park This Halloween Daily during Half Term there’s plenty of Halloween Family Fun at Odds Farm Park and we have 5 Entry Tickets for 2 Adults and 2 Children to give away!

Youngsters can carve their own Special Pumpkin*, follow the Witches Trail and, NEW for 2012, watch Spooky Magic Shows! Carving will also be open on 20 & 21 October.

You can also have fun in the Giant Indoor Playbarn, you’ll find a massive adventure play area including 4 lane Astra Slide, 2 large drop slides and much more. There are also special Toddler and Under 5’s areas, so there’s bags of indoor and outdoor things to do for all ages.

Fore more information visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk *Small charge is made to cover the cost of the pumpkin

To enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

Francesca Fenn and Margie Skinner, the mothers who wrote the guides, know all about those little things that make a day out work for everyone. So good picnic spots are noted, free toilets are clearly marked and accessibility details for buggies and wheelchairs are included.

“We think we’ve thought of everything” say Margie and Francesca.

“The only thing we can’t help you with is the weather!”

The London Treasure Trail, Down by the Thames and The London Lion Hunt are available from www.stepoutsideguides.com and selected museum shops and book shops. Step Outside Guides cost £5 each.

To enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

01628 621215/6 info@funtyper.com

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Header

Time Out

Compiled by Trynke Casale

Film walk in the Burnham Beeches on Sept 9

Autumn walks at National Trust properties throughout the month

Sunningdale area carnival on Sept 16

SEPTEMBER

Friday September 7 and Saturday September 8. HERITAGE OPEN DAYS FREE ENTRY at Painshill Park, Portsmouth Road, Cobham. 10.30am-6pm.

Explore the 18th century landscape garden, lake and follies. Pick up a family trail on arrival. 01932 868 113; painshill.co.uk.

Saturday September 8. WOODLAND CRAFTS in Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham. 10am-5pm.

Workshop with a woodcrafting expert, centred around a campfire, learn how to craft items from local, natural materials and make some yourself. Cost: £60 per day.

Booking essential. Suitable for older children. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Saturday September 8. PICNIC AT POPES MEADOW, part of the Heritage Open Days, at Popes Meadow car park, off St Marks Road, Binfield. 1-3pm.

Picnic in the surroundings of this historic site and play games, followed by a brief guided walk. Opportunity to have a look at the private grounds of Popes Manor, home to famous poet Alexander Pope. Booking required on 01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Saturday September 8 and Sunday September 9. CONCOURS OF ELEGANCE in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle. 9.30am-5pm. A display of sixty of the world’s rarest motor cars, including the 1925 Rolls Royce Phantom I Jonckheere Coupé - the ‘Round Door Rolls’ coming from the Petersen Museum in LA; an award-winning 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Zagato Berlinetta; and many more treasures. Tickets: £25 via concoursofelegance.co.uk.

Saturday September 8 and Sunday September 9. SLOUGH CANAL FESTIVAL in Bloom Park, Middlegreen Road, Langley. 11am-5pm. Enjoy lots of activities and events by the water, including boat trips, canal wares, arts and crafts, canal fishing, mobile farm, kids activities, arena events and meet the Dulux dog. Free entry and parking. 01753 875194; slough.gov.uk.

Saturday September 8 and Sunday September 9. DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, near Aylesbury. Train rides, Magic shows, Punch ‘n’ Judy, the Thomas DVD Theatre, Storytelling, Arts and Crafts and rides on the Miniature Railway. Tickets on the day: adults £15, children £11 (2-15). 01296 655720; bucksrailcentre.org.

Sunday September 9. BANDSTAND MARATHON in Grenfell Park, Maidenhead. 1pm -5pm.

Live entertainment and activities in Grenfell Park. For more info, visit www.enjoymaidenhead.com nearer the time.

Sunday September 9. THE BIG PICNIC at Alexandra Gardens, Windsor, for the whole family to mark the end of the Olympics. 12-7pm. With live bands, stalls, kids activities, food, drink, art. Organised in partnership with the Firestation Arts Centre: firestationartscentre.com.

Sunday September 9. SPONSORED WALK AND FAMILY FUN DAY at Ascot Heath Junior School, Rhododendron Walk, Ascot. Starting at 1.30pm.

Hop, skip, jump, walk or be pushed and raise funds for the Ascot Area Alzheimers Support Group. 1.5mile walk.

Fancy dress encouraged. Plus raffle, tombola, horse races, many stalls and refreshments. 01344 421292.

Sunday September 9. GRAVITY GRAND PRIX in Cookham Dean. The course will be from the junction of Church Road and Spring Lane to Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

Up to thirty themed, fun, home-made carts will compete for a variety of prizes. Start at 1.30pm. Raising funds for the Thames Valley Air Ambulance. 01628 485 224; cookham.com.

Sunday September 9. ON LOCATION at the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common.

Morning film walk. Find out where exactly Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was filmed, as well as many other films and TV shows. Booking required. 01753 647358; cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnhambeeches.

Weekends till Sunday September 30.

WEEKEND WALKS at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead.

11:30 am - 1pm. Free guided stroll around the grounds.

Join senior gardener Chantal and explore the fascinating history and latest goings-on in the gardens. Pushchair and wheelchair-friendly route. 01628 605069. SELF-LED AUTUMN TRAILS from 1 September to 30 November. 10am-4pm. 01628 550320; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Sundays September 2, 9 (National Heritage Day) and 16. LORD DESBOROUGH’S SPORTING LEGACY, Exhibition and Open Days at Taplow Court, Berry Hill, Taplow. 2.30-5.30pm. An exhibition celebrating Lord Desborough, the owner of Taplow Court 1866 to 1945, known as ‘the best all-round sportsman’ of his time and President of the 1908 Olympics. 01628 773 163; sgi-uk.org.

Friday September 7 and Saturday September 8. NATIONAL HERITAGE OPEN DAY EVENTS in Slough. Friday: TOURS OF THE MERE, a Victorian Mansion next to Herschel Park. Late afternoon and early evening. Limited spaces, please call to book on 01753 637241 or email history@nfer.ac.uk. Friday: Guided HISTORY TOUR of Herschel Park and its surrounds, 6.30-8pm. Meet by the kiosk next to the park, off Upton Close. Saturday: AWESOME AUDIO TRAIL in Herschel Park, 11.30am-1pm. A family friendly trail exploring Herschel Park’s amazing history through audio characters, including Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens and the founder of the park, James Thomas Bedborough. Cost: £5 refundable deposit and proof of ID. Meet next to the kiosk. Organised by SloughMuseum. For more info, call 01753 875209 or 07771 973035.

Friday September 7 to Sunday September 9.

TOURS OF ST LAURENCE’S CHURCH, Upton Court Road, Slough.Various times. Grade 1 listed and the oldest building in Slough, contains the grave of Sir William Herschel, composer and astronomer. www.saint-laurence.com

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Time Out

Kophill climb near Princes Risborough on Sept 22 and 23 Wednesday September 12 to Saturday September 15. WEST SIDE STORY by Stage One Youth at the Desborough Suite, Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead. Classic 1950’s musical. Performances at 7.30pm weeknights, at 1pm and 6pm on Saturday.

Wednesday preview night. £7.50 for under 20s and over 60s. Other tickets: £12 adults, £10 concessions. 01628 624798; stageoneyouth.com.

Saturday September 15. DIAMOND JUBILEE VILLAGE FETE in Cookham Dean, on the Old Cricket Common. 1-5pm. Traditional fete with plenty of entertainment for all. 01628 810755; cookham.com.

Saturday September 15. MARLOW CARNIVAL in Higginson Park, Pound Lane, Marlow.

9am-8pm. In support of the Marlow Community Association charity. Lots of stalls, events and activities, such as Tug of War competition, live music, fairground rides, side shows, classic cars. 01628 472558; marlowcarnival.co.uk Saturday September 15. AWESOME AUTUMN – Family fun at Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead.

10am-1pm. Follow a woodland tree trail, take part in an OPAL hedgerow survey and play fungi trump cards. Lots of activities to keep children occupied. Booking closes Monday 10 September. 01628 829574 x202 (Rhiannon Harrington); bbowt.org.uk.

Saturday September 15 and Sunday September 16. PALADINS OF CHIVALRY TRAINING CAMP at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. Popular medieval enactment group Paladins of Chivalry will set up camp. Meet medieval knights, ladies and peasants. With demonstrations of medieval life, combat practice and dance. 01494 871117; coam.org.uk.

Saturday September 15 and Sunday September 16. ROYAL COUNTY OF BERKSHIRE SHOW, at the Newbury Showground, just off J13 of the M4. Newburyshowground.co.uk.

Sunday September 16. SUNNINGDALE AREA CARNIVAL at the Broomhall Recreation Ground, Sunningdale. 11am-4pm. With a 1950’s theme. Lots of stalls, events, food, live music, children’s activities. £1 entry, under 5s free. 01344 625109; sunningdaleareacarnival.co.uk.

Sunday September 16. THE PHARMALINK MAIDENHEAD HALF MARATHON in and around Maidenhead. 9,30am. Flat, fast and traffic free road course, starting and finishing in the town centre and taking in some scenic routes through the surrounding areas. Forms and more info on: purplepatchrunning.com.

FAMILY EVENTS DURING THE WINDSOR FESTIVAL Wednesday September 19. OPERA MAGIC at the Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor. 2pm.

The London Festival Opera returns to the Theatre Royal for a new operatic "box of tricks", aimed at introducing children to opera. With highlights from the great operas of Mozart, Rossini, Offenbach, Puccini, Gilbert and Sullivan and more. Lots of audience interaction and participation!

Tickets: £8 children, £12 adults.

Wednesday September 19. CHARLIE HIGSON will be talking at the Windsor Boys’ School, Maidenhead Road, Windsor, at 7pm. Writer, actor and comedian Charlie Higson, author of the phenomenally successful Young Bond series of novels and a best-selling zombie adventure series for teenagers talks about his writing and his latest teen book The Sacrifice. Tickets: adults £5, students £4.

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Grand Steam and Vintage Vehicle Rally Bucks railcentre on Sept 22 and 23

Pied Piper musical walk in Windsor on Sept 29

Friday September 21. BATS OF THE BLACKWATER at Shepherd Meadows, Marshall Way, Blackwater. 7-9pm. Guided walk looking for bats by Steve Bailey of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust. Free, but donations invited. Bring suitable outdoor clothing and foot wear and a torch. Meet at the car park, off Marshall Way. 01252 331353; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Saturday September 22. SPOOKS CIRCUS, a children’s magic show at The Firestation Arts Centre, St. Leonard’s Road, Windsor. 3.30-4.30pm. Daft magician Peter Campbell-Wells presents the most talented Spooks working in entertainment today, but can he keep control?

Tickets: adults £6, children £5. 01753 866865; windsorfringe.co.uk.

Saturday September 22. WALKING AND OUTDOORS FESTIVAL at Frost Folly, Wellers Lane, Warfield. Expore the outdoors on foot, cycle, wheelchair and horseback on the paths and public rights of way in Warfield. Lots of guided routes. Full programme of events: 01344 354441 or visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parksevents.

Saturday September 22. CLASSIC CAR DISPLAY at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 12-3pm.View a mouthwatering selection of old and not so old vehicles on the Grand Drive (courtesy of the Uxbridge & District Classic Vehicle Society). With special appearances from the 'Astors' and their house guests. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden.

Saturday September 22 and Sunday September 23. PIED PIPER at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 11.30am and 2pm. One person show combining puppetry, foot-tapping live music and storytelling, for ages 3+. Tickets: £8.50, family of 4 £31.

01628 788997; nordenfarm.org Saturday September 22 and Sunday September 23. THE BIG HARVEST WEEKEND at Greys Court, Rotherfield Greys, Henley. 11am-5pm. Annual celebration of harvest produce taking place in the orchard and around the grounds. 01491 628529; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday September 22 and Sunday September 23. GRAND STEAM AND VINTAGE VEHICLE RALLY at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury. 10.30am-5.30pm. Tickets: adults £10, children (5-15) £7, family £27 (2 & up to 4). Free parking. 01296 655720; bucksrailcentre.org.

Saturday September 22 and Sunday September 23. KOP HILL CLIMB VINTAGE TRANSPORT WEEKEND at the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Chinnor Station, Chinnor.

Vintage bus service from the Hill Climb event to Chinnor, and return, for competitors who wish to ride the train, with a diesel service Saturday, and the standard Steam service on the Sunday. 01844 353535; chinnorrailway.co.uk. The KOP HILL CLIMB on Kop

Hill Road, Princes Risborough, for pre-1973 cars, has been held since 1910. Start at 10am, spectator gates open at 9am. Paddock events with motorsport and family attractions. Entry: £10 first ticket, £5 subsequent adult tickets, under 12s free. Kophillclimb.info.

Sunday September 23. MARLOW FOOD FESTIVAL in the Compleat Angler Hotel, Marlow.

11am-4pm. Feast of fun for all the family and it’s free!

Topchefs demonstrate their skills, plus food suppliers and restaurants let visitors sample their produce or cooking.

Sunday September 23. WINDSOR DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL at Windsor Leisure Centre, Stovell Road, Windsor. 9.30am-4.30pm. Fifth annual Festival on the Thames at Windsor, with teams of up to 12, including helm, paddlers and drummer, competing for prizes in Open, Ladies and Junior classes. Free to watch! Visit dragonsalive.co.uk/Dragon Boat Regattas 2012.

Monday September 24 to Sunday September 30. HENLEY LITERARY FESTIVAL with some great children’s talks, workshops and activities in The Kenton Theatre, New Street. Tuesday: Meg Rosoff speaks at 10am about her new book There is no dog. Wednesday: Philip Ardagh at 10.30am, about The Grunts in Trouble.

Thursday: Steve Cole, of Astrosaurs and Cows in Action gives a workshop at 10am about how to write funny stories. Saturday: DEAR ZOO 30th anniversary children’s event at D:two, Market Place, at 10am and 11.15am. For ages 3+ and parents. READING FOR CHILDREN talk in the library with Daniel Hahn, author of many children’s book guides, at 1.30pm. All events cost £4. Book in advance on 0118 9724700; henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk.

Tuesday September 25. SMALL SCALE LIFE AMONG LARGE SCALE TREES, guided walk for all in the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. 10.30am-12.30pm. Meet at the cafe on the Common. Woodland paths with gentle slopes and no stiles. Less than two miles. 01494 676091; bbowt.org.uk.

Saturday September 29. FUNDRUN at Braywick Athletics Track, Braywick Road, Maidenhead. Teams of 8 run, jog or walk 200 metre relay “Runs" of Maidenhead’s Braywick Track for 55 minutes. Fundraising event for the Maidenhead Lions and their chosen charities. For more info and registration: 01628 625672; maidenheadlions.org.uk.

Saturday September 29. UK YOUTH DRAGON BOAT CHAMPIONSHIPS at Longridge, Quarry Wood Lane, Marlow. Teams come from all over the UK to compete for the coveted Moon Dragon Trophy.

Open to everyone.You don’t need to be an expert paddler as the day starts with practice runs in the morning. Entries close on Monday September 17. Full details and forms: www.longridge.org.uk Saturday September 29. MEDIEVAL MERRIMENT at the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum, Guildhall, High Street, Windsor. 1-4pm. Free family event. Find out what Windsor was like in medieval times. With drama, re-enactments, storytelling, craft activities, and much more. 01753 866865; windsorfringe.co.uk.

Saturday September 29 and Sunday September 30. CARTERS STEAM FAIR at Holyport Green, Maidenhead. Saturday 1-10pm, Sunday 1-7pm. Fireworks on Saturday night.

Carterssteamfair.co.uk.

Sunday September 30. WINDSOR STREET GALLERY in Peascod Street, Windsor. Open air fine art show in Peascod street. Browse and buy between 11am and 5pm. Windsor.gov.uk.

Sunday September 30. FAMILY OPEN DAYS at Longridge, Quarry Wood Lane, Marlow. A great chance for all the family to come and have a go at our activities for as little as £1.50! All activities for children 8+. 01628 483252; longridge.org.uk

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Friday September 21. EXPLORCHESTRA! At the Theatre Royal Windsor. 2pm. Time-travelling concert with the Southbank Sinfonia exploring countries, continents and characters that helped shape classical music through the ages. Tickets: £8 children, £12 adults.

Saturday September 29. PIED PIPER – by Music with Mummy, a musical walk starting at Park Street Entrance, Long Walk, Windsor, at 10am. Follow the music along the Long Walk. Special event for young families about the story of the children of Hamelin, with nursery rhymes and marching. Bring teddies and dress up if you like! Tickets: children up to 6 years £6. Adults free.

Booking essential.

Book through Windsor Festival on 01753 714364 (or direct with Theatre Royal Windsor on 01753 853888); www.windsorfestival.com.

Time Out

Compiled by Trynke Casale

Various apple days in our area in October

OCTOBER Saturday October 6 and Sunday October 7.

HARVEST FESTIVAL at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. Traditional harvest festival, as celebrated 200 years ago. See the Museum's restored thrashing machine in action (weather permitting) thrashing the traditional rye crop, grown and harvested on the Museum site this year.

Plus lots more. 01494 871117; coam.org.uk.

Saturday October 6. THE BIG DRAW – Take a Pencil for a Walk! At the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 11am-4pm. Free, drop-in anytime. Contribute to a large scale drawn map of Wycombe as seen by its community or make a personal map of the Museum. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Saturday October 6. ROMEO AND JULIET at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 11.30am and 2pm. Shakespeare’s classic play adapted for children with beautiful puppets, lots of clowning and live music. For ages 6+. Tickets: £8.50, family of 4 £31. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org Saturday October 6. HENLEY NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at the Christ Church Centre, Reading Road, Henley. 10.30am-12pm. NCT members entry at 10.15am. Excellent range of toys, nursery equipment, buggies, cots, stairgates and clothes. £1 entry.

Henleyanddistrictnct@hotmail.com.

Saturday October 6 and Sunday October 7.

CARTERS STEAM FAIR in Englefield Green, Egham.

Saturday 12-11pm, Sunday 12-9pm. Fireworks on Saturday night. Carterssteamfair.co.uk.

Saturday October 6 and Sunday October 7.

HUGHENDEN’S 1940S WEEKEND at Hughenden, High Wycombe. 11am-5pm. Special weekend commemorating the Air Ministry taking over the Manor during World War II. Free, with normal admission. 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Sunday October 7 (TBC). BLITZ DAY at the REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Arborfield, Reading. 11am-3.30pm. Go back in time and capture the spirit of the 'Blitz' in World War Two. 0118 976 3375; rememuseum.org.uk.

Sunday October 7. WINDSOR EMPORIUM at the Guildhall (first floor), High Street, Windsor. Arts, crafts and antiques fair, every first Sunday of the month.

10am-4pm. Also visit the Vintage Tea Room - serving home made refreshments. 07900 285919; windsoremporium.co.uk.

Saturday October 13 and Sunday October 14.

APPLE DAYS at Hughenden, High Wycombe.

11am-4pm. Celebrate the English apple with displays, tasting and fun activies. 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Sunday October 14. FASCINATING FUNGI –WOODLAND WALK at Runnymede, starting from the top of Coopers Hill Lane, Englefield Green, off St Jude's Road. 11am-1pm. With a local fungi expert and National Trust ranger. Tickets: adults £5, children £2.

Booking essential on 0844 2491895. 01784 432891; nationaltrust.org.uk. Also on Sunday October 28.

Sunday October 14. BRACKNELL NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at the Hilton Hotel, Bagshot Road, Bracknell. Doors open at 11.30am for NCT members with a valid NCT membership card and 11.45am for non-members. Entry is £1 (in aid of NCT Charity). Baby and toddler goods, clothes, toys and maternity wear. 0844 243 6058; nct.org.uk.

Wednesday October 17 to Saturday November 3. MAIDENHEAD ARTS EXHIBITION at the Maidenhead Heritage Centre,

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Big Draw events in our area October 2012

Arts week, Binfield, Winkfield & Warfield in October half term

Park Street, Maidenhead. Showcasing local arts and theatre groups, with events for children during Half Term week. 01628 780555; maidenheadheritage.org.uk.

Saturday October 20. APPLE DAY at Home Cottage Farm, Bangors Road South, Iver Heath.

11am-4pm. Held in aid of St Margaret’s Church in Iver Heath and other local charities. Great family fun day with lots of stalls for charities, producers and traders selling everything from toffee apples, pumpkins, to bric-a-brac and crafts activities. Entry: £1 adults, £3 parking, children free. 07870 338712; appleday.iverheath@googlemail.com.

Saturday October 20. THE ADVENTURES OF PERSEUS at the Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 11.30am and 2pm. Two quarrelsome professors bring to life one of the most exciting stories from Ancient Greece, using puppetry, lightning-quick character changes and lots of action. For ages 5 +. Tickets: £8.50, family of 4 £31. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org Saturday October 20. HARVESTING HAZEL WOOD at Tinkers Copse, Jocks Recreation Ground, Binfield Road, Bracknell. 11am–3pm. A chance for all the family to have a hands-on experience of working with wood. 01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Saturday October 20 and Sunday October 21.

APPLE DAYS at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead.

11am-4pm. Enjoy the Apple Days to be held in Cliveden's long-lost Round Garden, which is currently being restored. Lots of fun for all the family. 01628 550320; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday October 20 and Sunday October 21.

PUMPKIN CARVING at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common. Get ready for Hallowe’en and carve a pumkin – against a small charge.

01628 520188; oddsfarm.co.uk.

Saturday October 20 and Sunday October 21.

THE BIG DRAW at Hughenden, High Wycombe.

11am-4pm. Hughenden takes part in the national 'Big Draw' Campaign. Bring your imagination and all other materials will be provided. Free event. 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Sunday October 21. AUTUMN BUSHCRAFT at Hughenden, High Wycombe. 9am-12pm and 1-4pm.

Half day activity. Learn how to build shelters and light fires, among other things. Cost: £25. For adults and children over 8. Booking Essential on 0844 2491895.

01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Tuesday October 23. TERRIFIC TUESDAYS – SPOOKY AUTUMN at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. Every Tuesday during school holidays. 11am-4pm.

Make potions in Little Acre Wood, spiders at the Village Green and lots of other spooky fun activities. 01494 871117; coam.org.uk.

Friday October 26. HALLOWE’EN at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. Safe trick or treating, and lots of Hallowe’en activities in the grounds of the museum. Trails, fire eaters, face painting, spooks and ghouls and storytelling too. Special admission charges. Booking essential. 01494 871117; coam.org.uk.

Saturday October 27 to Sunday November 4.

HALF TERM HALLOWE’EN HIJINKS! At the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. All week: pick up a potty treasure hunt leaflet to hunt through the haunted forest. Monday and Tuesday: THE GRIMMEST OF THE GRIM with the Skewbald Theatre Group, mixing song, puppetry and storytelling.

Wednesday: Hallowe’en craft activities from 2.30-4.30pm, with the Burnham bogeymen, including besom broom making. Cost: £3 donation, first come, first served.

Hallowe’en party afterwards from 5-7pm near the Beeches Café, fancy dress a must! 01753 647358; cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnham.

Saturday October 27 to Sunday November 4.

AUTUMN NATURE TRAIL at the Savill Garden, Wick Lane, Englefield Green. Free trail, perfect for families, starting at the Savill Building. Follow the free trail through The Royal Landscape, Windsor Great Park. Car park charges apply. 01784 435544; theroyallandscape.co.uk.

Saturday October 27 to Sunday November 4.

HALLOWE’EN WITCHERY at Hughenden, High Wycombe. 11am-4pm. Spooky activities for all the family.

Wear your creepiest costume! 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday October 27 to Sunday November 4.

HALF TERM HALLOWE’EN ACTIVITIES at Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading. 10am-5pm.

Throughout the week: Hallowe’en scarecrow trail in the gardens. Wednesday October 31. HALLOWE’EN HORRORS creepy craft workshop, making some ghoulish masks, plus spooky storytelling. Normal admission, plus £2 per trail. 0118 984 3040; nationaltrust.org.

Sunday October 28. FASCINATING FUNGI –WOODLAND WALK at Runnymede, starting from the top of Coopers Hill Lane, Englefield Green, off St Jude's Road. 11am-1pm. Booking essential on 0844 2491895. 01784 432891; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Sunday October 28. HALLOWE’EN SPECIALS at the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Chinnor Station, Chinnor. Special activities and children dressed in Hallowe’en costume will receive a present. All Trains Steam Hauled, with trains at 10.15am, 11.45am, 1.30pm, 3pm & 4.30pm. 01844 353535; chinnorrailway.co.uk.

Sunday October 28 to Wednesday October 31. HAUNTED HUGHENDEN at Hughenden, High Wycombe. 5.30-6.30pm. Explore Hughenden by night with our resident house manager and learn of the spooky happenings in the manor. Includes a spooky themed tea.

Cost: adults £10, children £8. Booking essential on 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Monday October 29, Wednesday October 31 and Friday November 2. FAMILY FUN AUTUMN WALKS in the Woodlands, at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 11am-1pm. Free, fun 3km guided activity walk, aimed at 6-12 year olds, to explore the wilder side of Cliveden. Walks start at the goalposts in the paddocks, and end at the Information Centre in the main car park. Accompanied children only. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Monday October 29 to Friday November 2.

A SPOOK-TASTIC HALF TERM at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. Daily WORKSHOPS for more details go to nordenfarm.org.

01628 788997; nordenfarm.org Monday October 29 to Saturday November 3.

HALLOWE’EN CRAFTS at California Country Park, 9 Mile Ride, Finchampstead, Reading. 10am-4pm. Plus, on Wednesday, HALLOWE’EN TERROR TOURS, not for the faint-hearted! 0118 9735519; wokingham.gov.uk.

Monday October 29 to Sunday November 4 (half term week). ARTS WEEK in Binfield, Warfield and Winkfield, taking place in libraries, halls, schools, churches and outdoors across the area. Showcasing the best of local arts, crafts, music and cultural events that local adults and children can enjoy on the day, with lots of workshops and talks. 01344 882702; arts-week.org.

OCTOBER HALF TERM Saturday October 27. PUMPKIN PARTY at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 11am-4pm. Pumpkin crafts, come dressed up, take part in the trail, get some sweets.

Bring your pumpkin. The biggest one wins a prize! Cost: £2 per child. 01628 550320; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday October 27 to Sunday November 4.

SPOOKY HALLOWE’EN FUN AND PUMPKIN CARVING at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common. Spooky magic shows from Wizard Sam-Tastic, a witches trail and pumpkin carving (against a small charge). Fancy dress competitions. 01628 520188; oddsfarm.co.uk.

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

27

Time Out

Halloween fun & pumpkin carving during half term

Legoland fireworks on 27 and 28 October & 2 to 4 November

Tuesday October 30. FUNGAL FORAY at Lily Hill Park, Lily Hill Road, Bracknell.

2–4pm. Guided walk looking into the amazing world of fungi with an expert from the Thames Valley Fungi Group. Suitable for all. Cost: £2. Booking required on 01344 354441.

Tuesday October 30 to Friday November 2. HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at the River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley. Make a cuddly owl felt cushion, CRAFT WORKSHOP for ages 4-7 on Tuesday, from 10.30am-12.30pm. Booking required. Cost: £8.50. BIG BUG EXPERIENCE for the whole family on Wednesday.

Thursday: THE FASCINATING WORLD OF WEATHER. 10.30am-12.30pm. For ages 7–11. Cost: £8.50. Booking required. Friday: THE BIG DRAW POSTER. 10.30am-4pm. Work together as a family to design your own giant poster to celebrate a special occasion. All materials provided. Free with admission. 01491 415600; rrm.co.uk.

Tuesday October 30 to Sunday November 4. HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. All activities per timed ticket on the day, for 3/4 hr sessions starting at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm.

Cost: £2.50. Tuesday and Wednesday: Spooky Spoon Puppets and storytelling. Thursday: Flicker and Flash! Science activities. Sunday: Build A Bird-Feeder, between 2-4pm. Free event. Hallowe’en trail available all week. Cost: £1.25. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Wednesday October 31. WILD ONES – FLYING BATS AND BOUNCING SPIDERS at the Memorial Hall, Sandhurst Memorial Park,Yorktown Road, Sandhurst.

10am–12pm. Create your own Hallowe’en bat kites and bouncy spiders. Cost: £3.50 for materials. Booking required on 01344 354441.

Lots of activities before the fireworks at Ascot Racecourse Nov 3

Wednesday October 31. WILD WEDNESDAY – HALLOWE’EN SPOOKTACULAR at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 11am-3pm. Take part in the spooky trail and claim your delicious prize. Have fun making creepy crafts and come dressed in your scariest outfit. Cost: £2 per child. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Wednesday October 31. PUMPKIN FUN at Greys Court, Rotherfield Greys, Henley. 10am-12pm. Pumpkin carving and craft workshop for children. Cost: £5 per child.

Booking Essential on 0844 2491895. 01491 628529; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Wednesday October 31 to Friday November 2. BIRTHDAY BONANZA – HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at the REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Arborfield, Reading. 11am-3.30pm. Its REME’s 70th birthday! Celebrate it with fun and games. 0118 976 3375; rememuseum.org.uk.

NOVEMBER Saturday November 3. JAMES CAMPBELL’S COMEDY 4 KIDS at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 11.30am. The popular children’s stand-up comedian is back! All the comedy without the rude the bits. For ages 6+. Tickets: £8.50, family of 4 £31. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org Saturday November 3. COMBINED CHARITIES FAIR at the Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead. Get ready for Christmas! With stalls full of bargains, gifts, books, crafts, plants, toys.

Sunday November 4. AUTUMN GLORY WOODLAND WALK in Coopers Hill Wood, Coopers Hill Lane, Englefield Green, off St Jude's Road. 11am-1pm.

Walk in the woods with the National Trust Ranger for an insider's glimpse of the woodlands as they prepare themselves for winter. Tickets: adults £5, children £2.

Booking Essential on 0844 2491895. 01784 432891; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Sunday November 4. WINDSOR EMPORIUM at the Guildhall (first floor), High Street, Windsor. Arts, crafts and antiques fair, every first Sunday of the month.

10am-4pm. Also visit the Vintage Tea Room - serving home made refreshments. 07900 285919; windsoremporium.co.uk.

FIREWORKS AND BONFIRE NIGHT EVENTS Saturday October 27, Sunday October 28, plus Friday November 2 to Sunday November 4. BRICK OR TREAT FIREWORK SPECTACULAR at Legoland, Winkfield Road, Windsor. 10am-7pm. Lots of Hallowe’en themed activities with spectacular fireworks displays. Legoland.com.

Saturday November 3. SCOUTS BONFIRE NIGHT at Formosa Meadow, Mill Lane, Cookham. Gates open at 5.30pm, Bonfire lighting at 6.30pm, fireworks shortly after at 7pm. Mulled wine and refreshments for sale. Senior citizens and under five year olds free. Cookham.com.

Saturday November 3. BONFIRE AND FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR at Upton Court Park, Slough. Plus refreshments from around the world and a large fun fair. Tickets on sale from the end of September, or on the gates. 01753 875194; slough.gov.uk.

Saturday November 3. FAMILY DAY AND FIREWORK SPECTACULAR at Ascot Racecourse, Ascot. United House Group Day racing during the day, plus family attractions, fun fair rides for all ages. Fireworks will begin at 6.45pm. Last Admission and any re-admission advised before 4pm. Candy floss and toffee apples available all day. Under 18s go free with a racing ticket-holding adult. Fireworks Only tickets also available. 0844 346 3000; ascot.co.uk.

Saturday November 3. FIREWORKS AND FUN at Maidenhead United’s football ground in York Road, Maidenhead. 5.30-7.30pm. Fireworks at 7pm. Plus fun fair attractions to entertain the children beforehand. Linkfoundation.co.uk.

Saturday November 3. FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR AND CARTERS STEAM FAIR at Boyne Hill Cricket Club, Boyn Grove, Bath Road, Maidenhead. 2-10pm. Grand Firework Display from 5pm (Entrance tickets needed £3 per person, under 5s free).

Saturday November 10. FIREWORKS at Longridge, Quarry Wood Lane, Marlow. The end of season finale for the whole family! For more info nearer the time: 01628 483252; longridge.org.uk

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Trick or Treat?

Most kids love Halloween – the chance to dress up and get given sweets AND chocolate!

Here’s how to throw a fiendish party at home. With the help of Wendy Flynn.

Vamp up the house Decorate the house with spiders, skeletons, ghouls and broomsticks. Getting the kids busy during half term is a great way to pass a few holiday mornings – cut black card into bat or witch shapes to stick as silhouettes on the windows, or make some ghosts out of white paper.

Or take a trip to your local £1 shop, usually a haven of cheap decorations. Flimsy fake cobwebs will add to the ghoulish atmosphere. And don’t forget a pumpkin lantern – usually in the supermarkets by early October, but don’t buy too soon if you want it to last. Simply scoop out the inside and then create your design, before cutting along the lines with a sharp knife. Put a tea light inside for a ghoulish lamp when darkness falls.

A ghastly menu With a little bit of creativity you can put on a feast of some surprisingly healthy novelty foods. Try traditional toffee apples and nuts; make Wizard’s blood cocktails from cranberry and pomegranate juice with blackcurrant squash and sparkling water; make monster eyes by cutting boiled eggs in half, adding a raisin or olive for the pupil and using red food colouring for the veins; or try witches fingers made of chicken or fish goujons with an almond flake for the finger nail.

For some sweet treats, how about bat-shaped biscuits, Halloween cupcakes iced with cobwebs, or marshmallow ghosts and ghouls? Or why not have a go at making jelly worms? Go to http://www.instructables.com/id/Bowl-ofWorms-Anyone/ for instructions.

Happy Halloween

Spooktastic!

Want to get in the spirit of things even more?

How about visiting some of our local spookiest places…

Bisham Abbey Built around 1260 on the banks of the River Thames near Marlow, Bisham Abbey is said to be haunted by the ghost of Lady Holby, who died in 1609. She is reputed to throw things, tear sheets, and at night time you can sometimes hear her piteous sobbing. There is also a holy well in the grounds where spectral lights have been spotted.

The Royal Stag, Datchet A ghostly handprint is supposed to appear from time to time on a window in the pub. It’s thought it belongs to a young boy, who was the son of a local labourer, who was a drunkard. He used to frequent the pub, taking the child with him. One very cold night, the child perished of cold whilst standing outside waiting for his father.

The George and Dragon, West Wycombe It’s said that Sukie, an 18th-century employee of The George and Dragon who died in her

room there after a prank that turned to tragedy, can sometimes be seen as a ghostly white lady in the middle of the night. And heavy footsteps have often been heard on the stairs, apparently belonging to a traveller murdered there in the 18th-century.

The Royal Standard, Beaconsfield Thought to be one of the oldest pubs in the country, it’s been known as The Royal Standard of England since 1663 when King Charles II allowed its name to change as a reward because the building had offered his fathers’ supporters a safe haven during the English Civil War. Sounds of a beating drum have often been heard in the car park, which is said to be that of a young Royalist drummer who was killed when the pub came under attack from the Roundheads. A second ghost is reputed to walk through walls in the bar – thought to be a traveller killed by a speeding horse coach on the road outside.

Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe Disraeli’s ghost has been seen in his former home on the upper floors of the house and at the foot of the cellar stairs. The house is now owned by the National Trust and you go on a tour of it.

Games to die for

Odds Farm Park

The last witch hunt in England Witchcraft was punishable by death until 1735, however the last hanging for the murder of a witch took place near Tring in 1751.

Ruth Osborne was accused by townsfolk of being a witch and drowned in Long Marston pond by a mob.

The ringleader Thomas was later executed at Tring for her murder and his body left to hang nearby as a warning to those who would murder so-called witches.

Photo: National Trust

Even in this high-tech age, most kids still love oldfashioned Halloween games. Try Swing Apple where you hang an apple on a door lintel and children try to bite the apple without touching it. And have a go at Bob Apple where children try to retrieve a bobbing apple from a large tub of water without using their hands (you can also put money at the bottom, so the very brave have to dunk their head under to retrieve 50p or a £1).

For a Halloween-style lucky dip game, fill a large cauldron-like tub with slimy, coloured goo (blood red Gelli baff); wrap a variety of ghoulish gifts in clingwrap (eg, fake eyeballs and false teeth) and dare the children to dip their hands in the witch’s brew to see what she is using in her spells.

Then blindfold your guests and invite them one by one to enter the Witch’s Lair and challenge them to identify by touch and smell the ingredients she has laid out for her next spell.You can use herbs like mint; lemon rind; sugar, breadcrumbs, or coffee beans. Children love the challenge of guessing the ingredients and you can give a prize to the person identifying the most.

All about fun!

The ultimate experience in children’s entertainment for 2-13 years Interactive party games Hi-energy action rhymes Multi-coloured parachute Assault course Mini indoor football Limbo dancing Fairies and pirates dressing-up adventure Sweets, stickers and prizes galore!

Disco parties Going Home Presents

For further information contact Maxine Tel: 020 8573 6288 Mob: 07814 605175 www.chuckleparties.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

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Parenting

Are you collecting contraband on top of the fridge?

What do you do with the kids’ contraband? You know – the game you confiscate when they fight over it, the toy they wallop their brother with, or the mobile phone they are texting on after bedtime? By Dr Clare Bailey. ome parents have an overflowing mound of toys on top of the fridge, others hide them. Perhaps you’re like me and have to find a good hiding place because my older children can reach the fridge better than I can!

The only problem is I often can’t remember where I have hidden them.

Contraband can become a source of contention with older children – whose possessions are they? When they accuse you of ‘stealing’ the CD they raised the money to pay for themselves, whose is it?

Have you got any ‘right’ to confiscate it?

To manage your cache of contraband effectively: • It must be removed calmly!! Shouting and waving it in their face doesn’t enhance the message – at the very least it makes you look slightly mad, and at worst, it’s scary. Either way they probably won’t be thinking about their misdemeanour and how to behave better next time.

• Avoid breaking it in the process – particularly electronic equipment.

Slamming down a PS3 may end up with wrangling about who gets it mended and again. This is a MAJOR DISTRACTION! (apart from the fact it will probably be you taking it for repair). Don’t leave electronics in boot of car on a freezing night either – it may fuse it entirely (been there, done that).

• Be clear about what the unacceptable behaviour was and ideally state what better behaviour you would like to see next time (briefly!).

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• Only keep it for the shortest period possible. It’s not more effective to remove it for a month. It is better to confiscate it for shorter period, say three days, at least then they can remember why it was taken away. If you leave it too long it will lead to resentment building instead. And if you hide it, make sure you can find it again.

• Don’t allow them to whinge or browbeat you into returning it earlier.

There are plenty of opportunities for them to learn negotiation and debating skills, just not this one.

• Return it with grace after the time is up – don’t give a long lecture. If you must say something, remind them of the positive behaviour you’re expecting from now on.

If, however, the top of your fridge is piled high and you’re hunting for capacity for hiding confiscated goods elsewhere, perhaps it’s time to take a step back and consider a different approach. Maybe taking away toys as a consequence isn’t working and you’re having to escalate what you to do, to have an impact? Or perhaps you’re keeping things too long. ‘Neutralising’ a toy during an argument until they agree to try

a reasonable way to play together with it means you can avoid putting it away for weeks. Return it earlier and see it as an opportunity for them to learn to behave better (!).

The pile might be a nudge to go back to basics… Are you looking hard enough for things to praise? Are you spending special time with your child and joining them in activities and games they like to play? Are you managing to enjoy spending time together? This can often be enough in itself to reduce conflict at home – so that their toys remain toys -instead of becoming part of a parenting strategy.

Dr Clare Bailey and Dr Debbie Marsden from Parenting Matters will be running a series of evening Interactive Parenting Seminars in Beaconsfield in the autumn, in addition to local parenting courses, individual consultations held by phone or face-to-face and presentations in schools and companies.

To find out more call 01494 677575 or go to www.parentingmatters.co.uk.

Laura’s Little Treasures

Half Term Monday 29th October Friday 2nd November The Gap Club c/o Kings Court First School, Ash Brook Road, Old Windsor, Berkshire SL4 2NE

Tel: 07854 078 728

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email: hc_thegapclub@yahoo.co.uk

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Children's pre-filled party bags luxury paper party bags • classic bags character party bags • sweetie cones!

Free delivery on orders over £20 (within a 5 mile radius of Wooburn Green)

www.lauraslittletreasures.co.uk

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Parenting BULLYING - How to help your child cope Sadly, in spite of lots of publicity and much greater awareness of the problem, (especially in schools), bullying is on the increase. Wendy Bollen has worked as a counselling psychologist in schools with many hundreds of children and young people and by far the most common problem is being bullied. She has written an e-book with advice on how deal with the problem in a different way. his November anti-bullying week is eye, say it clearly with a smile and then being held from 19- 23 and whilst it quickly walk away. Don’t hang around is great to raise awareness about waiting for them to say something else.” the problem, what children really need is She also emphasises that there are some practical help and advice on how to deal things to avoid saying. “Never say anything with bullies better without bullying. about someone’s Mum! This is likely to Wendy has done a lot of research into escalate the situation.” the causes and effects of bullying and Based on her work with pupils, Wendy delivers training to schools on the most has written a self-help book for youngsters effective ways to tackle this problem. on how to beat the bullies. The Little Book She realised that the advice usually Of Retorts is set out in sections, given by teachers didn’t work. which include information on the Pupils are often told to ignore reasons behind bullying, why “Most unkind comments, but that people become victims and children often leads to increased techniques for dealing with fear attempts by bullies to upset and anxiety. Importantly Wendy don’t want their victim. Based on her emphasises that children don’t to involve own experiences and those have to have experienced bullying of the young people she in order to benefit from the book. a teacher” works with Wendy has come “Prevention is far better than up with a rather different cure and if children appear confident approach which empowers pupils by and untroubled by insults they are teaching them how to stand up to a bully. unlikely to become a victim.”

“Most children don’t want to involve a The book is suitable for kids aged from teacher, but they do want to do something. ten up to sixteen and is ideal for children I teach kids strategies to help them stand starting secondary school this autumn. up for themselves by using assertive body Costing only £1.91 it is available as an language and practicing smart replies” ebook from Amazon Kindle, ibookstores, explains Wendy. “If you can show a bully Sony and Apple but can also be purchased that you really don’t care that they’ve said in PDF format from the website. something horrid and even better, say www.thelittlebookofretorts.com something funny back to them, it takes the Follow on facebook : wind out of their sails.” www.facebook.com/TheLittleBookOfRetorts Standing up to bullies is important says Follow Wendy on Twitter: @WendyBollen Wendy, especially with a smart retort.

An example would be to say, “I’m flattered that you spend so much of your Other useful websites: time thinking about me!” or “I’m sorry, I’m www.bullying.co.uk busy right now, can I ignore you later?” www.beatbullying.org Wendy stresses that how you say it is just www.bbc.co.uk/schools/parents/bullying/ as important as what you say. www.antibullyingweek.co.uk “Stand straight, look them straight in the

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Telephone: 01628 627 586

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

Here are Wendy’s top five tips on how to deal with bullies: • Look confident-stand up straight and look them in the eye if they say something to you. If you look scared a bully is much more likely to pick on you.

• Stay calm and practice slow breathing. If you feel less anxious you’ll look more confident.

• Even if you feel upset, don’t show it until you are out of sight. Bullies enjoy seeing their victims upset, so by letting them see you upset you are rewarding them and they are likely to continue.

• Likewise don’t let them see you’re angrythe aim is to show bullies that you’re really not bothered by what they say.

• Use humour- a witty retort is unexpected and shows bullies that you are confident and don’t care what they say to you. In fact, you think it’s funny.

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Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere!

I’m Ed and here is my Autumn book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online from Ed’s Reading Room at www.edontheweb.com.

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools. Each month, recently published books are selected as Ed’s Books of the Month for Owlets (age 5-7) and Owls (over 7s). On the website, there are fun literacy activities to accompany each book, including wordsearches, quizzes, poetry and reviews, and there are new original stories in Edtime Stories. There are also lots of other fun online activities, complementary to the curriculum. Check out Ed’s Archive for Ed’s Books of the Month from previous months.

For Ages 5 to 7 years Medal Mayhem by Tamsyn Murray (Simon and Schuster £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Harriet Houdini, star of the television programme Superpets, is picked to take part in the London Animalympics. She begins training for the triple jump with the world famous athlete Calvin Cross. With such a fantastic personal trainer and with Harriet’s enthusiasm she should be well on her way to success but all does not run smoothly when the bunny-napping Maldini appears on the scene. Will Harriet be able to hop, skip and jump to the gold medal?

‘This wacky character is great fun. Medal Mayhem is a laugh out loud story with fantastic illustrations throughout. It will entertain children reading on their own or reading together.’

For Ages 7 years plus Super Soccer Boy and the Raging Robots by Judy Brown (Piccadilly Press £4.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Harry and his friends are excited to be going to a tournament at Wembley with lots of top players taking part.

Harry can’t believe it when his favourite player is sent off the field and later other players also start to behave in very unusual ways. Harry notices strange things happen when the owner of one of the teams, Anton Antovich, is around. Could Antovich be responsible? Harry has to use all his Super Soccer Boy powers to reveal Antovich’s plan.

‘This is a humorous and gripping story. It is very well written and brilliantly illustrated by the author. If you enjoy it as much as I did, look out for the other books in the series.’

The Poisoned Honey Cake

by Caroline Lawrence (Orion £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Threptus is the apprentice of the soothsayer Floridius. He is trying to find information to help his master who fears he is losing his power of seeing into the future.

Threptus angers the gods when he eats a honey cake that has been left as an offering to them.

And he is poisoned – as well as already being nearly starved. Will he be able to survive this latest disaster?

‘This is a brilliantly written story that is action-packed and very funny – as well as being historically accurate. It is exciting and entertaining and will appeal to boys and girls alike.’

The Abduction by John Grisham (Hodder £6.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Theo Boone is the son of two lawyers and at the age of 13 he has already acquired an amazing knowledge of the law. However the issue here is personal to Theo as his best friend April has disappeared from her home in the middle of the night and this time even Theo doesn’t have any answers. Will his powers of investigation be enough to discover what exactly has happened to April?

‘This adventure in the fantastic Theodore Boone series is fastmoving and full of suspense. It may well have you on the edge of your seat.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at mgh@edontheweb.com about the website or about Ed on the Web Spelling Bees in schools.

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Bumps ‘n’ Babes

It’s time to play

CLASSES NOW IN WINDSOR, MAIDENHEAD & SLOUGH!

Please contact Elaine Dennis for further information Tel: 07876 338925 E-mail: elained@tinytalk.co.uk Website: www.tinytalk.co.uk

Sensory play doesn’t have to be all mud pies and puddle splashing, Early years trainer, Sue Gascoyne, takes a look. eing a parent can be one of the most rewarding jobs in the world and one of the most demanding, with lots of conflicts between the glittering ‘ideal’ of parenthood and reality. Take sensory and messy play - most children are hardwired to get the most from resources like mud and water, but as adults we can struggle to appreciate their appeal, as well as finding time in our busy lives and embracing the mess and dirty clothes.Yet according to the Sensory Play research project, over 60% of adult’s most vivid childhood play memories involve sensory-rich play outdoors – making mud pies, building dens and climbing trees. So it’s important that we make time for our children to enjoy it too, as it reaps rich rewards, is hugely satisfying and good for them as each sensory experience creates vital connections in the brain.

Make a treasure basket Sensory-rich experiences don’t just have to involve playing outdoors. A treasure basket, quite literally a basket of household and natural objects, can happily engage young babies through to six year olds (and older). The secret lies in the fact that this collection of what adults may see as just everyday objects becomes a basket of awe and wonder with limitless possibilities. As there are no actual toys, a spoon can be a wand or microphone or a purse, a dolls’ bed, rocket or boat. Children can explore, problem solve, create and discover to their hearts’ content as there are no right or wrong ways of playing.

You will need…

• A basket or other sturdy container.

• A collection of interesting objects, for example, rubber plug, spoons, napkin ring, shell, large pebble, etc. Pick objects for child-size hands and include a mix of wood, metal, cardboard, fabric, shapes and colours to appeal to all the senses.

What to do...

• Clear the area of toys and put the basket on the floor. If appropriate, position cushions to support young babies.

• Sit nearby and watch what your child plays with and how? Depending upon their age they may explore each object one at a time; use two or more objects together, ie putting an object in a tin to make a shaker; use the objects for building towers; or rustle up a fabulous imaginary feast.

• Simply sit and watch to discover interests and developmental milestones.

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Telephone: 01628 627 586

How children benefit?

• Increases concentration and focus.

• Develops muscle strength and skills.

• Gives meaning to words, eg, soft, heavy, cold, rough.

• Encourages problem solving and creativity.

• Develops connections in the brain.

What else can I do?

Once your child has had plenty of opportunities to explore the treasure basket, you could offer some of the objects next to a container of sand or water to see if and how this changes play. Try adding some dried rice, glitter or sequins to sand to change its texture or appearance. Or add natural seedpods and clean recycled pots to give children’s imagination a boost. Or how about burying some treasure-like objects, for example a smooth stone (for a dinosaur egg), mini-flower pot, necklace or chain (for treasure) in a container of sand to be discovered in a miniarchaeological dig. Simply saying, ‘I’ve heard that there’s a fossilised dinosaur egg in here,’ can be enough to get them playing. Provide various brushes and spoons for children to experiment with discovering the treasure. Add magnifying glasses for exploring finds and magnets to extend to a mini-metal detector hunt. Talk about what happens and why the magnets did/didn’t work.

This simple fun activity will capture children’s imagination whilst developing muscle strength, language, thinking skills, problem solving and creativity.

The great thing about sensory play is that siblings play happily together, each in their own age-appropriate way: a baby will enjoy the feel of sand and objects; a toddler may accidently create patterns and use containers for pouring and transporting; and an older child will mix ‘delicious’ concoctions or develop their own games.

In our time-stretched lives the biggest boost we can give to play is giving children the time, space and ‘permission’ to discover and explore simple and natural ‘treasures’ like these. Watching sensory-rich play is magical and can be fun for us too!

Sue Gascoyne (BA, MA, MRTPI) has designed and run workshops to help practitioners introduce learning through play. Play to Z provides the Playscope range of playful learning resources, awardwinning training and research.The Playscope products are designed to expand the opportunities of sensory play with children of all ages to meet as many of the EYFS areas of development and learning as possible.

For more info, visit www.playtoz.co.uk.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

places available

Music with Mummy Themed, fun music classes for children aged up to 5 years in small groups Jolly Babies – specially designed for babies under one year Jackie @ Windsor: 01344 301954 Caroline @ Ascot: 01753 850772 Katie @ Maidenhead: 01628 667441 www.musicwithmummy.co.uk

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Mums (and Dads) Who Mean Business City to Village move inspires career change

Thames Valley East

We now work fantastically well together as a husband and wife team with up to 12 children each day (dinner times are very busy!). We each bring something different to the setting and our families love the fact that there is a positive male influence for their child outside of their own families.

Call: 01628 627586 to advertise now

1. Who are you and where do you live?

We are Emma and Ajay Mistry and together we run a Childminding business called Rainbow Wellies Childcare in the lovely little village of Datchet, near Windsor. We have two lovely boys of our own - Kieran is 9 years old and Ruben is 4 years old.

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

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

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

2. What did you used to do?

Ajay was previously a Market Research Director who was based in the city and later in Barnes, specialising in advertising and media research, with clients amongst the radio, poster and TV companies.

Emma previously worked as a DTP software trainer in Clapham Common. She taught graphic design and publishing programs to various clients including The Financial Times, Disney, book and magazine publishers, graphic designers, and even taught at the House of Lords and the MOD! 3. Why did you set up the business?

We moved to Datchet from south London six years ago because Emma had made the decision to go back to studying in order to set up a nursery with a friend. She was inspired by a magazine article that she read about a woman who had done the same.

We chose this area because it felt like a lovely place to live and raise children...and it is!

Emma wanted to create a unique service and to provide the highest possible quality childcare with lots of great experiences for all the children each and every day.

Her friend’s circumstances unfortunately changed and so Emma began childminding on her own in 2007.

A few years later and with a waiting list of families, Ajay decided to join too. He had been made redundant in the recession and the roles he was applying for would mean long hours and very little chance to see either of his boys. We saw an opportunity to improve our work / life balance, and it turned out to be the best decision we ever made!

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

4. What inspired you to set up the business?

No one knows what kind of parents they will become until they have their own family and in preparation we read a huge range of books with lots of different theories and methods for parenting. We spoke to lots of other parents too, to gain advice and tips and with this our knowledge grew as did the realisation that child development was something that we were very passionate about.

We confidently left our professions as we believe that working together we bring a unique and dynamic approach to the childcare industry. Our fantastic reputation has grown rapidly since we began working together two years ago.

5. What are your plans for the future?

We really love what we do, and to have the spontaneity and freedom of being able to all jump into a car at a moment’s notice, and head off somewhere interesting and inspiring with the children!

We find our roles so rewarding and each day brings something new and exciting. We love that we are able to continue to bring professionalism to our industry and constantly reflect on how we can do better.

We have developed our own daily ediaries that our parents love, and use newsletters and a monthly calendar of events to keep each day as interesting and stimulating for the children that we care for as possible.

We enjoy what we do so much that for now we don’t want to leave the childminding industry to set up a nursery however as we get older we may consider it further. Emma has recently completed her Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young people’s workforce, allowing her the qualification to manage a nursery if we choose to, and Ajay will soon be doing his too. So the future is an exciting one! Watch this space!

To find out more call 01753 545594 or e-mail rainbowwellies@yahoo.co.uk There is also lots of information on our website at www.rainbowwellieschildcare.com

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Classifieds X Factor choreographer sets up dance school

Do you want to shape up for the summer but hate the Gym?

Why not try Zumba Mix? This is a fusion of Latin American and modern music set to easy but high energy moves.

MONDAY & WEDNESDAY MORNINGS; TUESDAY & FRIDAY EVENINGS at the High Street Methodist Church in Maidenhead (opposite the White Horse Pub) £5 PER SESSION OR £25 FOR SIX

Contact Niki Kitt Fitness on 07775653051 or niki_kitt@yahoo.co.uk

11+ TUITION (Female) Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning, Maths, English

Accountancy Book-keeping Tax Returns Business Start ups VAT Payroll Friendly Affordable Service to help your business grow and give you peace of mind. A Lady Accountant who understands your business needs.

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1 to 1 Tuition Free 30min Assessment Paper & Interactive Practice Enhanced CRB Checked Member of MENSA (High IQ Society) 10% Discount for 10+ Lessons Covering: South Bucks, East Berks TEL: 01753 571225/07958 717582 elevenplus999@btinternet.com

Tamra with her students at the Marlow May Fayre

1. Who are you and where do you live?

My name is Tamra Lind, I run Tamra's Dance Classes (TDC) and I live in Cadmore End. 2. Why did you set up the business?

To be able to teach all my knowledge of being in the entertainment business to the next generation and to create a business with hours that could give me more time with my daughter.

3. What did you used to do?

I used to be a professional dancer on television shows, touring with music artists and musical theatre. I have choreographed for shows such as The X Factor, the Voice and artists such as the Wanted and Olly Murs.

4. What inspired you to set up the business?

Having my daughter inspired me to set up the dance classes. I want to give children an opportunity to learn from my experience as a choreographer and dancer. Being able to teach them a fun, healthy activity that gives them confidence and co-ordination is very rewarding. They are skills that they can carry with them in everything else they do.

When my daughter and I went to visit my mother in Australia, I also got inspired. She runs a successful dance studio there and my 18 month old daughter loved being in the studio environment with all the children dancing. I realised that running dance classes back in England would be a great idea. At the moment I run classes for all ages including adults at the Marlow Club on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Speech and Language Coach

Candle-making parties for children and grown-ups! www.candlebynight.co.uk

Tel: 07771 851435

Qualified Speech and Language Therapist offering one to one coaching to enhance children’s language development or in the interim before NHS Speech Therapy can start.

For additional info contact: Amelia d’Apice (BSc Hons)

Tel: 07947 306959 Email: mimidaps@hotmail.com

Mary Poppins Entertainments NOW WITH AMAZING ANIMAL PUPPETS

As seen on Paul O‘Grady Show.

For ages 3-103 Tel: 01753 663374 or 0781 1084 325 www.jeanpurdy.co.uK

5. What are your plans for the future?

To expand the class timetable for TDC while continuing to work as a choreographer on TV shows (like The Voice) and commercials so I can keep update-to-date with the latest styles & influences in the entertainment business, to pass on to the next generation of aspiring performers!

To find out more about her dance classes in Marlow call 07766584946 or go to www.tamradance.com

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Pregnancy Yoga & Mummy and Baby Yoga Relax, boost energy, ease aches & pains, prepare for birth, connect with your baby, rebuild core strength safely Shiv Jewelley - sylish, distinctive costume and fashion jewellery - something for everyone.

High quality jewellery with reasonable and affordable prices.

Find me on Facebook - shiv jewellery, to view and purchase amazing designs. Tel: 07946 367962

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012

www.phenixyoga.com Call Jennie on 07954 578 439 or email jen@phenixyoga.com

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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