Families Thames Valley West July/August 2021Print

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Thames Valley West

IN THIS ISSUE

Summer holiday camps How to enjoy returning to work Forty ideas to entertain kids this summer Issue 113 July/August 2021

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An independent, co-educational day and boarrding school for 11-18s

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...endless ideas for families of young children in Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham Families® Thames Valley West • Issue 113 • July/August 2021 Visit us at www.familiesonline.co.uk

In this issue...

4-6

News and views

7

Meet the Head

8

Education news

9

Top tips for a successful start-up

Hello from the Edit or...

10-11 How to enjoy returning to work 12

Summer camps

13

Preparing for a family holiday

14-15 Forty ideas for keeping the kids

entertained this summer 16-18 What’s on 19

Plastic pollution – let’s find a solution

20-21 Clubs and classes directory and news 22

Talking about racial stereotypes

23

Outdoor toys for summer

The Families team...

Editor: Rachel Jones Production: Ridgeway Press, 01256 300420 www.ridgewaypress.co.uk Next issue: Sept / Oct 2021 – Back to school, clubs and classes, Halloween and October half term.

I

look forward eagerly to the summer and spending the holidays with my children.

But as it gets nearer, a little panic creeps in. Six weeks with three small people to entertain (and trying to fit in work) is somewhat daunting. For us, organisation is the best approach – ensuring we plan in a balance of organised activities, get togethers with friends and some holiday clubs or grandparent babysitting days. I hope our directory of some of the best clubs and camps will help you as much as it has us!

Now that days out are officially back, look out for our What’s On Guide packed with summer events and activities, from outdoor

theatre to festivals. Our summer survival guide also includes forty ideas to keep the kids entertained, and top tips for preparing for a family holiday.

We were delighted to work with Taylor & Francis – an international academic publisher with its UK base in Abingdon – on a fascinating feature looking at opportunities for parents who have taken time out while their children are small to jump back into work... without compromising their values.

Have a sizzling summer and we’ll see you again for our ‘back to school’ education special in September.

Rachel.

Booking deadline: 15 July 2021

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NEWS AND VIEWS

Marcus Rashford’s new family cooking show Football star Marcus Rashford has teamed up with award-winning chef, Tom Kerridge to launch a new family cooking show called Full Time: Get Cooking With Marcus and Tom. The Manchester United striker, who last year forced the

Government to extend free school meal provision for struggling families, said he wanted to inspire people to make easy but healthy meals on a budget.

The pair's 52 tutorials will be posted on Instagram every Sunday, and cover recipes including fish

pie, Mexican-style chicken, and Mr Rashford’s childhood favourite, spaghetti Bolognese, with Mr Kerridge showing the Manchester United player how to cook.

They are aimed at families on a tight budget, with limited time, few expensive kitchen gadgets and little

knowledge of cooking.

The clips will also feature famous faces from sport, music and television. Recipe cards will be available in supermarkets, schools and food banks.

More info: Instagram @fulltimeals

Children wait longer to play outside alone Primary-age children in Britain are losing the freedom to play independently, and typically are not allowed to play outside on their own until they are two years older than their parents were, according to the British Children’s Play Survey.

While their parents were allowed to play outside unsupervised by an average of 9 years of age, today’s children are 11 years old by the time they reach the same milestone.

The study expresses concern warning that children are reaching the end of their primary school years without having had enough opportunities to develop their ability to assess and manage risk independently and a lack of adventurous play could affect children’s long-term physical and mental health.

More info: www.reading.ac.uk

4 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham

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An Independent Prep School for Boys & Girls aged 3-13

Please visit our website to learn more or contact Kate Spooner admissions@dolphinschool.com www.dolphinschool.com 0118 934 1277 Waltham Road, Hurst, Berkshire, RG10 0FR

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Families Thames Valley West • 5

NEWS AND VIEWS

Help take Nature’s pulse in the Big Butterfly Count The Big Butterfly Count (16 July to 8 August) is a UK-wide survey aimed at helping the Butterfly Conservation charity assess the health of our environment by counting the amount and type of butterflies.

According to the Butterfly Conservation charity, counting butterflies is essential because they play a vital part of the ecosystem as both pollinators and components of the food chain. The data

gathered by the public will be used to assess where conservation efforts should be targeted.

Taking part in the Count is easy: just spend 15 minutes counting the butterflies you see and then submit sightings online or via the free app.

There’s also a handy free downloadable butterfly chart to use.

More info: www.bigbutterflycount.org

Birth rate falls to record low The UK’s fertility rate has fallen to an alltime low.

Levels of childbearing in all the countries of the UK were declining even before the pandemic. A new study by researchers at the University of Southampton suggests that the impact of Covid-19 could mean a further fall in fertility rates to historically low levels.

Researchers warned that the health crisis would ‘depress fertility, particularly among young people,’ as more of them are living with parents.

Postponed weddings and job losses are also factors considered in the research, leading to a possibility of up to 66,000 fewer children being born across the UK by 2023.

More info: www.southampton.ac.uk

2021 Summer Reading Challenge - Wild World Heroes The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children ages 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.

Children's reading can decline during the holidays if they don't have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure.

This year’s nature-themed challenge called ‘Wild World Heroes’ will inspire children not only to read books but to discover how they can make a difference to the environment too.

The Challenge will launch in libraries and online on Saturday 10 July.

More info www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

6 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham

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Meet the Head...

Sid Inglis has been Headmaster at independent day and boarding school, Elstree School near Reading, for nearly eight years. Together with wife Olivia, they have built a reputation for academic aspiration together with excellent pastoral care and an exceptional flexi boarding model for Elstree’s pupils aged 3-13. Sid was previously Head of Classics and joint Headmaster at Ludgrove School.

How would you describe the ethos of Elstree School?

We have high academic expectations of the children, but at their own level.

We encourage them to be interested and curious, and to engage fully with the curriculum. But even more importantly, to be happy and confident in their environment. We are a nurturing school, and our pupils receive plenty of support from teachers who understand how to get the best out of them. I want them to bound into school with a smile on their faces, and that sense of excitement for a new day.

Your approach involves understanding how a child is intelligent rather than how intelligent a child is. Can you expand on this?

Exams are an inevitable side of school life and we take that seriously. Young people will always be measured on their grades and academic achievement. However, thriving in the modern world is also about developing empathetic, responsible young people with strong emotional intelligence. Having an ability to problem solve, show curiosity and possess great communications skills are all vital. There is an individual approach in the way we guide the children, and our smaller size really enables us to focus on individual needs and to nurture their different strengths.

How do you strike a balance between academic achievement and nurturing a happy and carefree childhood?

There is a clear distinction between work and play, and even the geography of our buildings enables this. Academic lessons are not taught in the main house, which includes

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common rooms, the library, dormitories and the dining hall. It is the place that feels like home and where children can have fun and be social. Likewise, our 150 acre-grounds give them plenty of space to let off steam. So when they come into the classrooms, they can really engage with their teachers and the curriculum. Having inspirational and empathetic teachers helps to make the classroom an exciting place too.

How does flexi boarding work?

I like to think of it as ‘family friendly’ boarding. While the day is quite structured, with lessons, assembly, sport, music etc., our boarders have the chance to develop their independence in the evenings. There are a whole range of clubs – from chess to filmmaking, and from cooking to touch rugby. They are encouraged to make their own decisions, which is an important skill to thrive in senior school and beyond.

Boarders commit to a certain number of nights from the beginning of term, with no minimum for younger pupils, although they tend to build up as they go through the school.

environment. Parents need the reassurance that their children will be looked after as well as they would be at home. It is screen free time, which many parents are happy with – they love the fact that children are enjoying fun with friends, time outdoors and sociable mealtimes.

How has Elstree School evolved over the past five years and what have been the highlights?

In terms of physical developments, we have opened a new science centre and full size astro pitch, with 12 tennis courts, as well as enhanced our music and drama facilities. There have been some subtle but important timetable changes, which have ensured we can maximise the learning opportunities within the classroom but also give children enough time to engage in the extra-curricular activities. We have recently become fully co-educational, which has been received incredibly

positively by existing and prospective parents and pupils. An ‘old boy’ was delighted that he can finally send his daughters to Elstree!

What more would you like to achieve over the next five years?

Embedding co-education throughout the school – and developing activities that are enjoyed by everyone – will naturally take time, but it has been a very strong start. In terms of facilities, we aim to further develop the creative arts and to look at our Year 7 & 8 curriculum to develop life skills for the modern world, whilst also maintaining the academic rigour for which the school is well-known. We also have an exciting IT strategy that was accelerated by the remote programme. Our most important focus though remains preparing children properly for life beyond prep school and building their confidence, while keeping their feet firmly on the ground.

What are the benefits to boarding, and how can a family know when the time is right?

Boarding encourages children to be themselves and to explore their interests in a slightly less structured environment. The benefits of boarding include getting children organised and into a routine, fostering their independence and developing their confidence. We can see clearly how boarding builds a child’s maturity and encourages him/her to make their own decisions. Elstree boarding is extremely popular because it combines plenty of fun and interesting activities within a nurturing

Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 07968 711937

Families Thames Valley West • 7

EDUCATION NEWS

Minibeasts take over at St Joseph’s

Preparing your child for school

By Janey McDowell

Early Years pupils at St Joseph’s in Reading have been looking at minibeast lifecycles, focusing on the changes frogs and butterflies make in their lives. The children have had live tadpoles and caterpillars in the Early Years Centre, providing exciting and rich learning experiences to enjoy and learn from, in a practical and first-hand way. Children have enjoyed making daily observations, commenting on how the little creatures look and how they have changed.

The indoor and outdoor environments have provided many themed, sensory, messy and exploratory activities for children to engage with; a session involving green water, tapioca pearls and chia seeds to represent frogspawn was a strong favourite. Imaginative play with friends and bug figurines, loose parts used to make bug soup, and songs, arts and crafts and music have all provided opportunities for lots of fun and learning.

The run-up to early September, when many children start their more formal educational journey, can be a daunting time for both parents and children. You may be wondering if you have done all you can to ensure that they are ‘ready’, both academically and emotionally. At Crosfields School, our experienced Early Years team provides a welcoming and nurturing environment and teach a broad and practical curriculum, designed to develop the whole child and foster independence. However, in the months before your child begins formal education, there are things that you can do at home to help them on their way.

Reading, talking, listening and writing form the key elements of any curriculum, and are things that we all do on a daily basis. Take the time to read with your child each day, not only as part of a bedtime routine but when you are out and about too. Reading for real-life purposes, such as words on signs and posters, food labels and shopping lists is not to be underestimated. You could also encourage your child to point out the letters in their name and other words that are important to them, such as mummy and daddy.

Talk about anything and everything! Giving your child a commentary on the world around them helps to develop vocabulary. Children are naturally inquisitive, and often need little or no encouragement to ask questions! When reading poems or stories, or watching television, talk about the characters, settings and storylines. Where possible, link stories to their own experiences.

Listening is a key skill that is promoted at Crosfields. Taking it in turns to talk, respecting others when they are speaking and maintaining eye contact are all ways in which children are taught to listen attentively and this can be modelled at home too.

Children will learn letter formation and the correct way to hold a pencil when they start school. At home, you can help by encouraging activities that develop the muscles needed for a strong pencil grip such as playing with Lego and modelling clay.

Janey McDowell is Head of Pre-Prep at Crosfields, an independent coeducational day school in Shinfield. For more information, why not attend one of our open events? Visit crosfields.com to register your attendance.

My voice counts Striving towards inclusion and participation for your child/young person Camilla Tanya Crystal

Independent Speech and Language Therapist and Teacher of English as a Foreign Language

+44 07581 067 499

Camilla@ccsandl.onmicrosoft.com

8 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham

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Top tips for a successful startup

By Kath Goodes A business idea Ideally, your business idea should be something that you are really passionate about.

Best to choose something that you enjoy every day, or you will run out of steam very quickly.

Also, think about your Unique Selling Point – what are you offering that is different?

I feel really passionate about creating safe and personalised baby toys and could talk about it all day. When I go shopping, I go around looking at baby toys and checking out their safety labels!

Support from partner and family I am really lucky to have an extremely supportive husband, although I think I must have really tested the limit of his patience sometimes. The house was overrun with stock and he had to stay up late packing orders with me. So, I highly recommend having a conversation with your partner up-front so that you have buy-in to your business idea.

What are the benefits of starting your own business?

Funding The adage ‘you need money to make money,’ is certainly true. You will need to think about how you fund your venture, whether that’s from your own savings, a loan or a grant. There are some government schemes that offer funding so speak to your local council.

Freedom and flexibility This is the main reason I wanted to start my business – having the freedom and flexibility to choose my own hours is very empowering. I can hang out with my kids in the morning and then do a bit more work later in the afternoon and at night when they are in bed.

I’m the boss!

Legal obligations Be sure to check your legal obligations, especially if you are selling products that are risky, such as food, cosmetics or toys. For example, the toys I sell have to be tested to ensure that they are safe for children.

Additionally, you may need product and public liability insurance.

I choose what I want to do and when I want to do it. I feel passionate about supporting charities and giving back to the community so, without having to ask a boss for permission or jumping through any other hoops, I rang up a few charities and donated to them. Job done!

I have learned so much and met so many lovely people.

I honestly have learned so much about the e-commerce world in the past year. I have also met so many lovely people, including my team, suppliers and my lovely customers.

A support network of other small business owners One thing I discovered early on is a network of other small business owners who I can reach out to for advice – from day-to-day operational things to more strategic questions.

I also do a lot of joint marketing events, such as giveaways, with other small businesses.

Kath Goodes is the founder of Chewie Cat UK (chewiecat.co.uk) which specialises in personalised toys and clothing for babies.

When I grow up, I want to be a Fairy Princess Airline Captain

Junior School

Confidence - Purpose - Joy www.theabbey.co.uk

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Families Thames Valley West • 9

How to enjoy returning If there is one bit of good to have come out of the pandemic, it is that many people have been given the opportunity to work from home and to prove that they can perform at their best. In many cases, the achievement has been all the greater because they are parents who have juggled work with sometimes daunting home learning schedules.

The reality is that COVID-19 has changed many work patterns for good, and a much increased percentage of employees now say that they want either to work from home long term or to achieve a mix in which office time is limited.

For their part, the more enlightened bosses are recognising that this new deal can be made to work to everyone’s advantage.

The result of the massive ground-shift is that there are now many more opportunities for parents who have taken time out while their children are small to jump back into work without compromising their values. Few are better placed to assess the situation than Sarah Parascandolo who is Head of Global Talent Acquisition with Taylor & Francis, an international academic publisher with its UK base in Abingdon.

Sarah has a five-year-old daughter, Alice. She hasn’t been into her office since March last year and shares the parental duties with partner Gary who has similarly worked from home.

Together, they have created a routine that has mostly worked (in and out of school closures!)

“It hasn’t always gone smoothly and yes I certainly questioned whether Alice’s reading suffered for a time,” says Sarah. “But when it went wrong we worked it out.”

Says Sarah: “The company is very supportive of parents getting back into work and offers flexible working and working from home plus sound maternity and paternity policies. When the pandemic hit they said ‘your family and your health come first; the customers will understand and we will support you to do what’s right for you’.”

Given the nature of her role with Taylor & Francis, and with many more Mums in particular now considering going back to work, she reflects on how best to approach the challenge. Her advice is based around a series of helpful nuggets.

10 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham

It’s ok to do what’s right for you Ask yourself first what your motives are for going back to work. Is it for self-fulfilment, to earn more money, meet new people, boost your confidence? None of that is being selfish it’s ok to have your own needs.

Check out the companies you are applying to When you are job hunting, take time to look at reviews of the company using Glassdoor, Google, Indeed and others. Don’t trust it all but they will give you a barometer. Look at their approach to flexible working and assess whether their values align with yours. Ask the company how they treated employees during the pandemic because that says a lot. And see if they might be flexible on, for example, accepting a four-day week for a role advertised as full-time.

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to work

Taylor & Francis is growing and looking to recruit. With core publishing in areas such as medicine, science and engineering, there are subject specific roles alongside exciting roles in technology, marketing, communications, sales and customer services.

Photos: Left: Sarah gets occasional work input from Alice!

Top right: Andrew with daughter Leila Bottom right: Gemma with her family

They made it work...

Gemma Shepherd, Enterprise Change Manager at Taylor & Francis

You won’t find a magic balance There will be days when your kids will want more of your time, you haven’t done the things you wanted to do around the house, the meal is late or they have watched too much TV. In the long-term, your kids will respect you for achieving a balance.

Have confidence When you read a job description don’t expect to be able to do it all – have confidence that you can learn on the job. Take a chance if the company offers good learning.

It’s ok to say no If you are working say three days a week, you have to say ‘no’ to a lot of things and you may

“I’ve really adapted to working from home and it’s been a huge advantage to my work - life balance as a Mum who has recently returned from my second maternity leave.

Previously, it was a two-hour round trip to and from work but now I actually get that time back and don’t feel so rushed with dropping-off and collecting the children.

The flexibility at work has enabled me to manage my working hours better, and I feel much more productive as I can plan my time more effectively around the children. I feel more at ease that if there was a problem at school or childcare, I could be there if required. If I hadn’t had so much support from work and the option of flexible working days/hours I would have really struggled to balance my work and homelife.

worry that it will be bad for your career. Accept that you can’t do it all and don’t expect to do five days’ work in three.

Get a plan in place Agree who is to be the primary carer and work out a routine between you with fallbacks. Line up a support network amongst family and friends.

Gemma’s hot tip: “Don’t put unreasonable pressure on yourself when you return to work. Allow yourself time to get back up to speed and remember that it will take a while to adjust back to working life.”

See parenthood as an asset to your career The skillsets we rapidly acquire and develop as parents enable us further professionally, particularly multitasking, time management, empathy, resilience, patience, flexibility, compassion and leadership. Use them to your advantage and build upon them. Celebrate you!

Andrew Miller - Organisational Coach at Taylor & Francis “The key is to find the right balance and to do the right thing for you. There will be lots of people offering advice and opinions on what they think is the best thing to do, and while it is often well-intentioned, it can end up putting a lot of pressure on you. I also think there are still stereotypes out there about gender roles when it comes to work and childcare, so it’s really important to have open, honest conversations about what you feel is fair, and right for your family, and to take a balanced approach.”

Andrew’s hot tips: “Go with what feels right and with what makes you feel most comfortable and happy, and be confident in making your own decisions. Create a strong support network around you – people who are willing to listen and provide emotional support, and also practical support wherever possible. Balancing work and childcare is a tricky thing to do, and it’s fine to ask for help!”

Careers in Taylor & Francis: https://taylorandfrancis.com/careers/

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Families Thames Valley West • 11

Summer holiday activity camps Summer camps are a great way to keep the kids active over the school holidays, giving them the opportunity to make friends and learn new skills. We have hand-picked some of the very best in the Thames Valley area. Information was correct at time of going to press MASTER BUILDERS CLUB - are you worried about too much screen time this summer? LEGO® is an incredible tool for developing children’s cognitive and fine motor skills. Along with sparking excitement, promoting creative play and encouraging problem solving, the product encourages a natural love of discovery and investigation. Throughout the summer holidays, Master Builders Club will be running creative LEGO play workshops in local village halls. For more details of upcoming events, LEGO® birthday parties, after school clubs and school events please visit masterbuildersclub.co.uk or email info@masterbuildersclub.co.uk CAMP BEAUMONT provides parents with a flexible, affordable and fun childcare solution. Children aged 3-16 can join for individual days or weekly bookings. Held at Leighton Park School in Reading from 12 July to 20 August. campbeaumont.co.uk

APOLLO summer club runs from 26 Jul – 27 Aug for children from ages 4-12. Activities include off-site trips, drama, cooking, arts and craft, specialist instructor sessions, outdoors play area, creative play, team games, indoors and outdoors games. Cost: £21.00 for full day (8.30am-5.30pm). Contact 0118 916 8416 / 0118 916 8417 or info@apolloyouthclub.org.uk / apolloyouthclub@gmail.com JUBILEE JETS SCHOOL HOLIDAy CLUB provides a real opportunity for children to indulge their creativity through imaginative play, innovative thinking and unscheduled playtime. Created in 2004, we have welcomed thousands of children to Jubilee Jets and continue to ensure they have happy and fun-filled school holidays. For more information, dates and prices, please visit jubileejets.co.uk

Creative play with Master Builders Club SUPERCAMPS provides school-holiday childcare at Trinity College (Newbury) and The Abbey School (Reading). At all venues, they offer multi activity camps, where children aged 4-12 years can enjoy sports, arts & crafts, cookery, games and occasional highlight activities or excursions. There is also a range of specialist courses at selected venues.

Running from 12 July to 27 Aug. Prices from £42 per day. supercamps.co.uk

ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE HOLIDAy CLUB in Reading is open to all, from ages 3-12. Run by qualified in-house staff. Crafts and sporting activities, and trips include climbing, bowling and laser quest. Open from 8am-6pm every school holiday. From £39 a day.

Book online at sjcr.org.uk

STAGEABILITy puts together A Show in a Week – the muchloved musical, Matilda - at rehearsal centres in Wokingham, Tilehurst and Mortimer from 2 Aug to 6 Aug, presenting a theatre show on the Saturday.

This really is a summer drama camp not to be missed!

Ages 5-14. stageability.class4kids.co.uk/camps

GDTENNIS has over 25 years’ experience running camps for ages 515, developing fundamental tennis and movement skills. Multiple locations across Berkshire, 19 July – 27 August. gdtonline.co.uk 01189477885 info@gdtennis.co.uk

STAGECOACH BRACKNELL NORTH (WARFIELD) Holiday workshops give children the opportunity to learn new skills, build confidence and make friends whilst working towards putting on a magical performance for friends and family. This year’s shows are Into the Wild (4-6 years, 2-5 Aug 9.30-12.30) and Madagascar Jr (6-18 years, 2-6 Aug 10-4).

GR SWIMMING SCHOOLS is running intensive swimming courses from 20-24 July at Brockhurst School, for children of all abilities from 3yrs upwards. The small, friendly classes have an emphasis on giving children confidence in the water and having fun as well as learning to swim.

Contact 07853 194327; email jo@swimlessons.co.uk or visit swimlessons.co.uk

Contact 01344 206466, or bracknellnorth@stagecoach.co.uk.

More info at stagecoach.co.uk/bracknellnorth

ULTIMATE ACTIVITy CAMPS STEPPIN OUT STARS OF TOMORROW – Under the Sea summer school from 2 – 6 Aug at Bulmershe Senior School, Woodley; and I’m a Believer from 16 – 20 Aug at Emmbrook Senior School, Wokingham. Five days of dance, drama and singing. Prices are £190 for five days for Steppin Out students, or £195 for non Steppin Out students.

More details at steppinoutstars.co.uk 12 • Bracknell • Henley • Reading • West Berkshire • Wokingham

provides Ofsted-regulated activity day camps in Reading, Newbury and Wokingham for children aged 4-14 years during the summer holidays. With over 40 fantastic age-specific activities on offer, it’s a great opportunity to try new activities and make new friends. ultimateactivity.co.uk

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By Lucille Whiting

Preparing for a family holiday Here are a few tips to make things less stressful.

I genuinely look forward to our family summer holiday. The one that we’ve been longing for ever since we booked it, often up to a year before.

B

ut actually getting away on holiday can be ridiculously hard work, especially with children. Preparation is infinitely worth it.

We all have golden memories of our day trips, outings and holidays – even the rubbish ones where we got lost, the weather was dreadful and we ended up in A&E!

‘What to take’ list There’s nothing quite as frustrating as arriving at your destination only to have to go straight back out and buy the things you’ve forgotten - or worse, realising that you’ve forgotten the toy your child can’t sleep without. So start by making a list of what you need to take and tick items off as you pack them. Clothes and medicines are obvious but don’t forget phone leads, picnic blankets, child cupboard locks, battery packs and hair straighteners.

‘To do’ list As well as all the things you are taking, you need a comprehensive list of all the things you must do before you can leave. Buy pet food for whoever is coming in to look after your pets?

Give keys to whoever is keeping an eye on your house? Travel sickness tablets for the kids?

‘Whilst away’ list It’s a good idea to research the area you’re travelling to. Make a list of places you would like to visit if it’s sunny and a list of options for if it’s pouring with rain.

Minimise Don’t take possessions that realistically you don’t need ( I clearly remember a holiday where we packed an electric guitar). Holidays are a time to get outside and explore – you won’t usually need extra entertainment.

Involve everyone in packing Even if things aren’t packed perfectly, this gives the kids something to do and you one less task!

Children ages 7+ are capable of counting out socks and trousers. Younger children usually love to pack their own toys and books.

Leaving the house Calculate how long you need to tidy, pack and check around one last time – then triple it!

Lucille is proprietor of Sophia Alexander which creates beautiful handmade personalised jewellery which sells throughout the world.

More information at sophiaalexander.com.

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Families Thames Valley West • 13

Forty ideas to keep the family After a long year of uncertainty, it’s great news to be allowed back out into the real world again! Here are 40 great ideas to keep the family entertained all summer long.

BUCKET LIST Go to a festival Missing the fields since lockdown? There’s plenty of family-friendly festivals out there.

Check out Into The Trees, a three-day childfriendly event set in the stunning Pippingford Park, Sussex. Find out more at into-the-trees.co.uk Flying high Perfect for thrill seekers, try Indoor skydiving and soar like a bird in a super-smooth, superfast, and super-cool wind tunnel. Suitable for kids aged 3+. Locations in Manchester, Milton Keynes, and Basingstoke - iflyworld.co.uk Visit a waterfall Visit the deepest gorge in the South West and a 30-metre stunning waterfall at Lydford Gorge in Dartmoor. Free to National Trust members, booking essential nationaltrust.org.uk/lydford-gorge Take to the skies For a really special treat, book a hot balloon flight for the family. Suitable for children who are 7+ and at least 4ft 6in (1.4m) tall. Must also be accompanied by a responsible adult virginballoonflights.co.uk Bubble fun Lockdown has seen a boom in garden parties.

You could host a hot tub party or book it as a summer weekend treat for the family! 4fungroup.co.uk

LEARNING IDEAS For Frankenstein fans Visit Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein in Bath. This brand new attraction is a blend of an immersive experience and a museum, with an Escape Room coming soon – houseoffrankenstein.com Letter fishing This is a fun game for pre-schoolers. Grab yourself some magnetic letters from the fridge, some string, a pencil, and a paperclip. Make a DIY fishing rod so your little one can fish for letters.

Family History How about finding out a bit more about your past and making a family tree? Get your kids to do some research about their grandparents

and distant relatives. Websites like ancestry.co.uk and findmypast.co.uk are useful places to start.

Visit a Castle Immerse yourself in history and take your budding Knights and explorers to take a step back in time. Warwick Castle (warwickcastle.com) is a firm favourite and Bamburgh Castle (bamburghcastle.com) in Northumberland has an amazing coastal location. Check out English Heritage’s top ten castles to visit english-heritage.org.uk Medicinal fun Explore the brand new Thackray Museum of Medicine in Leeds. There’s never been a more important time to explore the history of our healthcare system – thackraymuseum.co.uk

NEW HOBBIES

OUTDOORS

Write it out Journaling has really taken off in the last few years and it’s a great non-screen activity which can also help children understand emotions and developing creativity. You can buy one or get your kids to create their own. Younger children can draw pictures instead of writing – hobbycraft.co.uk

Treasure Hunt Go on a colour treasure hunt. Give your kids a map with colours on it so they can hunt for something matching each colour in nature.

You could try it for leaves and flowers too.

Explore geocaching Join the world’s largest treasure hunt!

Download the official Geocaching app; create yourself an account and you’ll unlock the location of thousands of caches (i.e. the treasure) that other hunters have left for you to discover - geocaching.com/play Get paddling Paddleboarding or SUP is a growing sport, which you can do with the whole family. Find your nearest waterway, river, lake, or canal and give it a go - bsupa.org.uk Head for heights Rock climbing is another great activity for adults and kids (8+) alike. Family climbing courses abound – google to find one in your area – thebmc.co.uk/climbing-wall-finder Get green-fingered Plant a veggie grow bag. You don’t need any more space than a window-box, or a tiny space in your yard. Your kids will love deciding what to grow and charting its progress.

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

Find the Gruffalo If you love Julia Donaldson, there are themed walks based on her books up and down the country to take the family to visit. Find out more details on trails at forestryengland.uk/gruffalo Woodland adventure Explore your nearest woodland (forestryengland.uk) or go further afield and explore places like Plessey Woods in Northumberland, which has a gorgeous new adventure playground – visitnorthumberland.com Get appy Get reluctant kids excited to go out for a walk with a brilliant app, Caper. Download the app, and receive a call from Captain Redtail who needs help locating a crashed spaceship. Find out more at caper.co Stargaze!

Choose a night when the sky is very clear, and there’s no moon. Before you go out, research a constellation that should be visible at the time of year. You can also use an app like Skyview Lite too. Or check out the 5 best sky gazing apps at sciencefocus.com/space

familiesonline.co.uk

entertained this summer

By Claire Winter

UNUSUAL Baby Raves With reasonable DJ bills for parents and bubble machines, giant balloons, and play-doh for kids, baby raves are a great way for the whole family to dance the day away. Big Fish Little Fish has events coming up in London, Liverpool, Ely, and Norwich. Find out more at bigfishlittlefishevents.com Sand sculpture Sand sculpting isn’t just for professional artists.

Why not take your children on a beach day out with sculpture in mind? Start with a flotsam and jetsam-collecting session, to fuel their creative ideas.

Wild swimming Nothing beats swimming in nature, you could try wild paddling if you have little ones! For ideas of where to go to find wild water near you, see wildswimming.co.uk

ART, STEM & CULTURE All aboard If you’ve got a budding engineer in your family, inspire them at the London Transport Museum’s Future Engineers exhibition where you can ‘drive’ a London Underground Tube train – ltmuseum.co.uk Bug Life Check out the Bug House at The National Museum Liverpool to get closer to your children’s favourite creepy crawlies – liverpoolmuseums.org.uk Van Gogh in 3D A multi-sensory family-friendly experience designed to immerse visitors in the life of Vincent van Gogh is coming to Kensington Gardens in London and Birmingham this summer. Special technology will display the artist’s works in a kaleidoscope of colour – vangoghaliveuk.com

Light me up Hidden in an unassuming area of London is God’s Own Junkyard. It’s the largest collection of vintage neon signs in Europe. Its late owner, Chris Bracey, created props for legendary directors Tim Burton, Stanley Kubrick and Christopher Nolan – godsownjunkyard.co.uk

BOREDOM BUSTERS Get bendy After a fractious day, doing some yoga moves can be really relaxing – cosmickids.com

Cinders is back Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much-awaited Cinderella The Musical is the exciting new musical comedy starring Carrie Hope Fletcher. It promises to reinvent the world’s best-loved fairytale when it opens in London’s West End this July – londontheatre.co.uk/show/cinderella Optical Illusion Check out Edinburgh’s first purpose-built visitor attraction. The Camera Obscura & World of Illusions has loads of mind-bending and fun activities to take part in camera-obscura.co.uk

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Explore underground There’s something strangely thrilling about taking a walk through a cave, into the very inside of the earth. Some of the best caves in the country are at Cheddar Gorge in Somerset, the White Scar Cave at Ingleton in Yorkshire, and Wookey Hole near Wells in Somerset – wookey.co.uk

Build a den Creating a den in the woods is a magical part of childhood. If you’re confined to the garden (or indoors because of rain), find some props to get the kids started - a huge cardboard box is perfect.

Rough and tumble Play fighting is a great way to let off some steam. Use some pillows and stuff them up a pair of dad-size T-shirts to set up a ‘sumo wrestle.’ Make the rules of play fighting clear, otherwise the session can descend into chaos and tears.

Eat a rainbow Of course, we’re not talking about vegetables.

Have fun with edible food colouring and let your kids paint and then eat rainbow toast. You could also make rainbow cake!

Hobbycraft.co.uk/baking Edible board games Make Draughts more fun by baking cookies to represent the pieces. Your kids can make a giant board with coloured tape and the best bit is you can all eat what you win!

FREE Outdoor painting Get little ones to paint the garden fence, shed, wall or patio with large brushes and a bucket of water (no paint needed). Simple and mess-free but great fun!

Get wild Join the Summer Reading Challenge, Wild World Heroes, at your local library or online this summer. They’ve teamed up with WWF to create a nature-themed challenge – summerreadingchallenge.org.uk Find a new path National Trails are long-distance routes for walking, cycling, and horse riding through the finest landscapes in England and Wales. Start planning a family adventure now! nationaltrail.co.uk Go fly a kite!

They’re cheap and easy to buy, or you can even make your own. Read up on tips about how to fly them – thekitesociety.org.uk Draw outside An outdoor blackboard will encourage all sorts of games and creativity. All you need is a piece of board, ideally marine plywood, cut to the size you require, and some blackboard paint.

Keep chalks in a waterproof box, ready for artistic inspiration.

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Families Thames Valley West • 15

WHAT’S ON JULY/AUGUST 2021

JULY Ongoing THE LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 4000, bracknellforest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscover ycentre There are over 90 science exhibits for children of all ages to enjoy at The Look Out Discovery Centre.

New exhibits include Tennis ball launcher and Body Mirror – have fun with our interactive screen, looking at the bones and muscles in your body. You can also launch a hydrogen rocket and play with boats in the indoor stream.

Activities and exhibits are organised in ‘zones’ which correspond with what your child may be learning about in school: Forces & Movement, Body & Perception, Light & Colour, Woodland & Water and Build It where you can design a house or drive a dumper truck. For more information and to book a timed session, please visit the website.

Throughout summer SUMMER AT THE MERL, 6 Redlands Rd, Reading, RG1 5EX Visit the Museum of English Rural Life this summer for trails, activities and more, every Tuesday to Sunday during the school holidays!

Discover our new family activity packs, available to buy at the museum shop. Try out our new Edible England Trail in the galleries.

Have a go at a variety of garden trails including our woodland brass rubbing trail. Have fun on the

fabulous wooden play-on tractor & wagon. For the latest information about visiting and booking, please visit merl.reading.ac.uk /visitus/families Various dates MASTER BUILDERS CLUB BRICK BUILDING WORKSHOPS, masterbuildersclub.co.uk Throughout the summer holidays, Master Builders Club will be running creative LEGO play workshops in local village halls. For more details of upcoming events, LEGO® birthday parties, after school clubs and school events please visit masterbuildersclub.co.uk or email info@masterbuildersclub.co.uk 3 Jul – 30 Aug WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK, Odiham Road, Riseley, RG7 1SP, wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk Various events planned throughout July and August, including The PeteZa and Bigfoot Show (10-11 Jul), Bouncy Castles in the Park (17-18 Jul and 28-30 Aug), Welly’s Summer Sports Weekend (31 Jul-1 Aug), Welly’s Pirate and Mermaid Week (14-15 Aug) and Welly’s Summer Fun Weekend (21-22 Aug).

Until 5 Sept GAME PLAN: BOARD GAMES REDISCOVERED, The Base Gallery, Greenham Business Park, RG19 6HN, thebasegreenham.co.uk.

Celebrate the joy, excitement and occasional frustration of playing board games in this interactive exhibition.

Summer at The MERL

1, 5 and 8 Jul POP UP PLAY VILLAGE, Chapel Hall, Loddon Bridge Road, Woodley, RG5 4BG Pop Up Play Village Wokingham Henley and Ascot is coming to Hurst. More information at popupplayvillage.co.uk

10 Jul MUM 2 MUM NEARLY NEW MARKET, Queen Anne's School, 6 Henley Rd, Caversham, RG4 6DX Mum2mum market holds regular nearly new baby and children's markets at fantastic venues.

Admission is £2 on the door for buyers – kids free. 2-4pm

From 10 Jul THE SUMMER READING CHALLENGE (THE READING AGENCY) This year’s free Summer Reading Challenge theme is 'Wild World Heroes'. Children read 6 or more library books of their choice and receive incentives along the way to encourage them. There's a certificate for everyone who finishes the challenge. With ideas from WWF, the challenge focuses on taking action for nature and tackling real-world environmental issues, from plastic pollution and deforestation to wildlife decline and nature loss.

11 Jul BRILLIANT BEINGS, CREATIVE MINDFULNESS FOR KIDS, Wasing Park, Aldermaston A playful opportunity for children to explore mindfulness for their wellbeing through yoga, sensory and breathing focused activities, relaxation techniques, nature connection and creativity! 10.30am - 12.30pm. More details at brilliant-beings.co.uk and email sarah@brilliant-beings to book.

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

17-18 Jul BERKSHIRE MAESTROS SUMMER FESTIVAL, Stoneham Court, RG30 4EZ, berkshiremaestros.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON JULY/AUGUST 2021

Wellington Country Park

21 Jul – 31 Aug SAFARI SUMMER, Beale Park, Lower Basildon, RG8 9NW Six weeks of extra activities at Berkshire’s only wildlife park, including a bouncy castle slide, electric safari jeeps (ages 3-10), pond dipping, bug box building, electric boats on the lake and a trail. In addition, there will be all the usual fun within the 35-acre riverside site, including exotic and farmyard animals, a jumping pillow, narrow gauge train, playgrounds and splash pool. Specific activities being finalised at time of going to print so subject to change – latest information and book tickets at bealepark.org.uk 25 Jul RAVER TOTS OUTDOOR FESTIVAL READING 2021, Prospect Park, Liebenrood Rd, Reading, RG30 2ND The nation’s biggest kid-friendly rave is launching an outdoor festival in Reading this summer, with lots of fun suitable for all ages 0 and upwards. Free fun fair, rides, play areas and inflatables. Child tickets: £20 and adults: £25. Buy tickets at ravertots.co.uk

27-28 Jul IN THE NIGHT GARDEN LIVE, The Hexagon, Queens Walk, Berkshire, Reading, Reading RG1 7UA, readingarts.com/hexagon Come and join Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends at In the Night Garden Live in their hit new show, Igglepiggle’s Busy Day. Tickets start at adult £18, under 16 £16.

28-30 Aug WOKINGHAM FESTIVAL, Cantley Event Field, Twyford Road, Wokingham, RG40 5TU, wokinghamfestival.co.uk Three days of excellent live music, delicious food and drink and a range of activities over the Bank Holiday weekend.

30 Jul – 5 Sept CRAFT AND PLAY, The Base Gallery, Greenham Business Park, RG19 6HN, thebasegreenham.co.uk.

Families will have their own table and box of crafting equipment instructions and all the materials need to make and create your game. £5 for a family ticket. continued on p. 18

Join Berkshire Maestros for a fantastic weekend celebrating face-to-face music making!

Including performances by a whole range of Berkshire Maestros ensembles, bands and choirs at all levels. Plus refreshments, including a barbeque, ice cream and coffee.

17-18 Jul MARVELLOUS 2021, Dinton Pastures, Davis Street, Hurst, Wokingham, RG10 0TH Onsite camping in a family friendly environment. Musical entertainment, food and drink, fairground rides and loads of stuff for the kids – from face painting and crafts to circus skills and dance workshops. Buy tickets at marvellousfestivals.com

18 Jul BRILLIANT BEINGS, FAMILY MINDFUL PHOTOGRAPHY AND ART, Wasing Park, Aldermaston Spend some peaceful time together exploring photography and art as mindful activities for wellbeing. Our lenses (any type of camera will do, including phone and tablet) will help us bring our focus out of our busy minds and into the wonder-filled present moment, connecting us to nature and inspiring art making for self expression, enjoyment and relaxation. 10.30am - 12.30pm.

More details at brilliantbeings.co.uk and email sarah@brilliant-beings to book.

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Families Thames Valley West • 17

WHAT’S ON JULY/AUGUST 2021 31 Jul and 1 Aug THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS, South Hill Park, Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park, Ringmead, RG12 7PA, southhillpark.org.uk This unique adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s original book oozes with charm and wit. This familyfriendly interactive performance shimmers with big characters and big hearts. It is 70 minutes in length, contains lots of audience participation and is suitable for 4year-olds and over. Price: £14, under 16 £10, family of four £44.

AUGUST 3 Aug CORN EXCHANGE / ARMADILLO ART EXPERIENCE, SKETCH AND SNAP FAMILY TRAIL, Victoria Park, Newbury, cornexchangenew.com Combine photography with learning to draw in this family fun trail. Bring your camera or phone – drawing materials provided. 1pm.

Family ticket £15. This event is part of the The Corn Exchange’s Out of doors festival, with various outdoor events and activities happening across Newbury throughout the summer.

8 Aug KENTON SUMMER ROADSHOW 2021 – THE LION INSIDE, The Kenton Theatre, 19 New Street, Henley-on-Thames RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk Based on the award-winning book

by Rachel Bright and Jim Field, LAStheatre present The Lion Inside.

A show for humans aged 3 and up.

2pm and 6pm. Tickets (if booked before 24 Jul): adult £9, concessions including children £5.

This is part of a summer roadshow that also includes other dates for Wind in the Willows and The Three Musketeers.

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9 Aug OUTDOOR THEATRE: THE JUNGLE BOOK, Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 2DR westberkshireheritage.org/shawhouse Filled with original music, audience interaction, and the chance to meet the characters after the show. Funny, exciting and wildly entertaining, this larger-than-life musical will have you howling with laughter. 6-8pm. Adults £12, Child £8.

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10 Aug PUSS IN BOOTS, Arlington Arts Centre, Mary Hare, Newbury RG14 3BQ, 01635 244246, arlington-arts.com Would you trust a talking cat? You never know, he might turn you from a pauper to a prince just like the hero of this story, brought to vivid life on Lyngo Theatre's incredible sloping stage. Age 4+.

Tickets: £10 and concessions: £7.

15 Aug MR STINK, Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 2DR westberkshireheritage.org/shawhouse Join Heartbreak Productions for David Walliams’ best-seller Mr Stink on the outdoor stage. Packed with fun, humour and a heart-warming message, this touching tale provides the perfect family entertainment. 3pm. Full price £13, concessions £11.

20-22 Aug SARAH AND DUCK'S BIG TOP BIRTHDAY, The Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 521 8218, cornexchangenew.com Join Sarah and Duck and a host of your favourite friends including The Ribbon Sisters, The Shallots, Flamingo & John and Umbrella, as they plan a birthday party for Scarf Lady in their garden. Told through a fantastic blend of puppetry, storytelling and music, Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday will take you and your children on a magical adventure. Full price £14, family of three £36, family of four £48.

29-30 Aug THE FESTIVAL OF FOOD AND MUSIC, South Hill Park, Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park, Ringmead, RG12 7PA, southhillpark.org.uk From tasty Thai and real ale to BBQ food, craft stalls and a children’s play area – there’s something for everyone. Music performances take place throughout the weekend. No need to book tickets in advance – entry is free.

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Plastic pollution? Let’s find a solution!

Are you ready for this year’s Plastic Free July Challenge?

Those who participate reduce their single-use plastic consumption at school, work and in their community. They use reusable water bottles, carry cloth grocery bags, buy at bulk stores and avoid pre-packaged foods.

Solutions and inspiration are everywhere.

Here are some from our readers: ‘What sparked my need to move away from plastic was the realisation that the vast majority of it isn’t recyclable and here to stay on earth forever. Using just one reusable nappy in place of a disposable every day could save 730 nappies from landfill during the early stages of a child’s life.’

Danielle Walker Here are some easy wins for our family.

• Mesh, reusable bags to buy loose fruit and vegetables.

• An EcoEgg for washing clothes.

• Milk delivered in glass, reusable bottles from the milkman.

• Taking water bottles everywhere, so there’s less need to buy bottled drinks. We avoid coffee shops!

‘As a family, the journey to being eco-friendly continues. Next we are going to try shampoo and conditioner bars as opposed to bottles. We are investing in a hybrid car.’

Helen Bailey

using plain and simple soap bars? The list is endless and with just a few changes you will make a real change. Shopping in bulk has also been a wonderful way of reducing plastic.’

Justine McNeil

‘In my efforts to reduce plastic, I now make a point of always looking to find foods, house products, make up, packaged in something other than plastic. We’ve been encouraged to buy products packaged in plastic when, in fact, most of them were previously packaged in recyclable containers. Think back to the large laundry boxes of laundry powder our mothers had. They are still available in 3.4kg cardboard packages but are generally hidden away behind rows of plastic bottles. Plastic soap dispensers are another perfect example. Why did we stop

‘It’s very important to me that the children use re-usable water bottles and I demonstrate this by using my own re-usable coffee cup wherever I go. We also talk about the impact this has on the ocean. We have been reading ‘Harry Saves the Ocean’ which is a great story to teach children about plastic pollution.’

Samantha Wilson With a bit of work and commitment, we can all do our bit, not just in July but all-year long!

Give these plastic-free goodies a try

Waste-free parties

Easy does it, introduce one change at a time!

Try to avoid anything disposable. Borrow supplies from a friend and then pass them on or invest in your own set: glass straws and recyclable bamboo cups and tableware.

Pure, hand-made bar soap faithinnature.co.uk Refill your detergent bottles ecobravo.co.uk

Plastic-free toilet paper whogivesacrap.org Bamboo toothbrushes, natural deodorants, shampoo bars planetorganic.com

Try partykitnetwork.org where you can borrow everything you need in one bundle. You can also score some ecofriendly party needs at littlecherry.co.uk.

Pasta in a paper box sainsburys.co.uk

Compostable coffee pods ravecoffee.co.uk

Reusable sanitary pads ecobravo.co.uk

Mooncup Menstrual Cup mooncup.co.uk

Period and day-to-day underwear modibodi.co.uk Reusable nappies pepicollection.com

Recyclable heads for electric toothbrushes livecoco.com Start your own food group sumawholesale.com Loose fruits and vegetables in cotton bags Solid shampoo bars babipur.co.uk

Subscriptions for bamboo toothbrushes fromearthtoearth.com

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Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 07968 711937

Most parents will agree that party bags are a nuisance, but they are much-loved by children. Try using paper or cloth ones instead and look for reusable goodies. Try prettylitlepartyshop.co.uk and plasticfreepartybags.com.

Balloons. Not only do they take forever to break down, but birds and other animals can choke on the pieces. Instead try some biodegradable confetti! gingerray.co.uk

Families Thames Valley West • 19

Clubs and classes directory Regular clubs, classes and out of school activities give your child a chance to shine and for you to have fun together, and there really is plenty of variety to choose from. Here are a few of our favourites, for babies, toddlers and school-aged children. Do check latest details directly with each provider as some elements may have changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more clubs and classes in your area, check out familiesonline.co.uk Developmental classes

Gym, sport and swimming Bulmershe Gymnastics Club – based at a purpose-built gym in Woodley, run gymnastics classes for all ages including Leap Frogs for walkers to five years lead by qualified coaches. bulmershegymnastics.co.uk

Master Builders Club Brick Building Workshops for Children proud winners of the Every Giggle 2020 Award for Best Paid For Activity For Primary School Children In The South East Weekend and holiday workshops, after school clubs, birthday parties and nursery/primary school events are designed to provide children with an exciting and captivating experience.

Fun workshops start with a short story which Master Builders ‘bring to life’ through the LEGO® models they build.

Thousands of LEGO® bricks are supplied in a calm and supportive environment along with the imaginative stimulus to transform a room into a world of creativity. If you are passionate about providing engaging and stimulating play opportunities that nurture your child's mind, Master Builders Club is for you!

GR Swimming Schools – children’s swimming lessons from 3yrs in Newbury, Thatcham, & Pangbourne. Places for non-swimmers through to advanced academy levels. Also holiday crash courses in swimming, diving and coming soon SYNCHRO!! Uniquely structured lessons, following Swim England Award Scheme.

01635 34862 swimlessons.co.uk Reading Swimming Club – formed in 1885, the club offers a structured learn to swim programme, squad training for all ages and competition opportunities from within the club, up through to county, regional and national level. We are keen to welcome new members of all ages and abilities. Please contact readingswimclub.org or email info@readingswimclub.org

Berkshire Maestros – fun, lively music classes for children from birth to seven years led by professional musicians and using a wide range of inspiring resources and real instruments.

Lots of singing, dancing, games and playing instruments, building confidence and friendships, as well as developing creative, intellectual, physical, social and emotional skills. Classes in Lambourn (Tue), Hampstead Norreys (Wed), Arborfield (Thu), Woolhampton (Fri), Reading (Thu/Sat), Emmer Green (Fri) and Newbury (Sat). Session times and more details at: berkshiremaestros.org.uk/mini_maestros_ma in.html or email admin@berkshiremaestros.org.uk Drama and theatre arts Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow – COVID secure, fun, energetic theatre classes for 3½ to 18yrs. Dance, drama, singing, tap, street dance, pop styles and musical theatre. Regular awardwinning classes in Wokingham and Woodley, plus summer schools. Call Shelley on 07970 034 488, or email shelley@steppinoutstars.co.uk, steppinoutstars.co.uk Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes – confidence-building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Classes are delivered in line with government COVID-19 guidelines. Visit perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class.

Venues: Newbury, Twyford, Caversham, Earley, Wokingham, Crowthorne, Henley-on-Thames and Goring. Contact: 020 7255 9120, enquiries@perform.org.uk, perform.org.uk

masterbuildersclub.co.uk

RABBLE theatre – Reading’s leading The Academy of Magic – created by Radek Hoffman, an international magician with 15 years of experience in the art of magic. The Academy of Magic shares Radek’s enthusiasm for entertainment and performance with young magicians through weekly online lessons. Fun and exciting after school clubs instil confidence, nurtures self-esteem and helps to develop children’s social skills. Visit radekhoffman.com for more information or to sign up for a free trial session. Suitable for children aged 8+.

Portuguese Language Club – offering tuition to help you talk fluently in Portuguese, but we don’t stop there. For us, it’s all about you and ensuring that you enjoy your stay with us whilst also making sure that your Portuguese language skills are vastly improved. We offer a range of services to suit all needs; including one-to-one and group lessons, in-school clubs, holiday Portuguese and GSCE and A Level tuition. Based in Tilehurst, Berkshire. Contact Maria on 07427630331, 0118 942 4591, info@portugueselanguageclub.co.uk, portugueselanguageclub.co.uk

professional theatre company. Runs LAMDA classes in Public speaking, Verse & Music & dance Prose and Acting. Classes run at Kendrick school 5-6pm on Tuesdays for 6-18yrs.

RABBLE also runs private lessons online and in person.

Contact dani@rabbletheatre.com Starmaker Stage School – a Saturday stage school based in Woodley that offers drama, dance and singing tuition, allowing younger children to explore their creative side without pressure. The experience of performance aids with public speaking, presentation skills and self-discipline. Saturday sessions run from 9.30-11.45am (Mini Stars for 4-6 years) and 11.45am-3pm (Young Stars for 7-12 years).

To book a free trial, please email Sue at stageschool@starmaker.org.uk and quote this advert.

award-winning after-school drama classes for kids who love to ACT! Burghfield, Tilehurst, Lower Earley, Mortimer and Wokingham. High-energy classes mean that students never get bored, can't wait to get to class and develop confidence, creativity and focus.

Free trial class and a Pay-As-You-Go option for infants. Ages 5+. Full listing of available classes, prices and venues at: https://stageability.class4kids.co.uk Come and join the fun!

E: jackie@berkshire.stageability.co.uk M: 07721 565898 T: 0118 933 3791

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To advertise here please call 07968 711937

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

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Clubs and classes directory / news

Perform summer holiday course: Alice in Wonderland.

Drama, dance and singing five-day course 9-13 August, 10am-3pm Wokingham Methodist Church Hall, RG40 1XS Your child will enjoy the colourful topsyturvy world of Wonderland as we join the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts and Alice herself in this five day magical adventure. perform.org.uk/alice

new members invited to join. We are a non-auditioned youth choir and rehearse every Thursday in term time.

Juniors (7-11 yrs) from 5.30-6.15pm, Seniors (12-17 yrs) from 6.15-7pm.

Location: d:two Community Centre in central Henley-on-Thames.

Costs are £55 for the Autumn Term which concludes with spectacular Christmas Concert. Come and join us for a rehearsal (free) to see if you like it: contact Fi Harding on 07947 658252.

Performing Arts can help your child prepare for the new school year The new school year is a great time to consider new activities for your child. Often gone unnoticed, the skills learnt in performing arts can be hugely beneficial to children as they navigate their way in a new school year.

Empathy One challenge children face when they return to school in September is changes to friendship groups.

Empathy is a particularly important characteristic to help overcome this and is a skill taught when training in the performing arts. To portray a character in a play, we need to be able to step into their shoes and understand their situation; if a child learns to understand a character in this way, they can also apply this to everyday life, helping them to react to their peers and developing their social skills.

Listening The ability to listen is an important skill, especially when a child is in a new setting, with new routines and expectations. During performing arts classes, children take direction from their teachers and peers.

This encourages them to be receptive to others’ ideas and work collaboratively.

Problem solving The ability to solve problems creatively within the safety of a performing arts environment can be

transferred to everyday life. Improvisation performances teach children to use their imagination and think on their feet, a skill that can be used when dealing with a variety of daily issues. If children feel comfortable exploring and dealing with problems in a non-linear way, this makes them more confident overall.

Confidence Building Performing arts are hugely beneficial to children’s confidence levels. Taking part in a practical performance, standing on stage, participating in a dance routine, or speaking in front of a group can give even the most confident children, and adults, nervous butterflies. Learning new skills, rehearsing, and performing in a safe space, with the support of expert teachers and encouragement of their peers, can prepare children to deal with situations in which they feel anxious.

PQA’s slogan is ‘Be Yourself, Be Amazing’ reflects their ethos of offering a safe, creative space where children and young people feel comfortable and part of a like-minded community. Regular face-to-face experiences that encourage self-expression are more important than ever as families navigate the complicated landscape of growing-up in a digital culture.

Magic moments Kids love magic! But their fascination is all the stronger when they actually learn a trick or two – which is what locally based international magician Radek Hoffman offers through his birthday party workshops. No fluffy rabbits, squeaky toys or balloon art.

Kids get to learn real magic and to learn tricks they can perform for years to come.

Radek is already well known in Berkshire and Oxfordshire through both workshops and after-school clubs - activities that he says help to instil confidence, nurture self-esteem and develop social skills. He has been particularly popular during lockdown with his Zoom-based Virtual Magic Experiences bringing families and friends together at a time when they have had to be apart.

Radek has also created an Academy of Magic as a vehicle for sharing his aweinspiring tricks and performance techniques through weekly online lessons which include the teaching of awe-inspiring tricks together with performance techniques.

Each lesson provides children with the confidence to develop a unique set of skills that are transferrable through everyday life.

More info – radekhoffman.com familiesonline.co.uk

Term time lessons!

• Non swimmers, improvers & advanced levels • Max of 6 children per class • Continual assessment & class progression • Pangbourne, Thatcham & Compton • Qualified*insured*dbs • Rookie lifeguards / DofE programme

We are an Independent family run swim school — not a franchise *Every child is different, every child is equal*

Jo@swimlessons.co.uk | www.swimlessons.co.uk

T: 07853 194327

Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 07968 711937

Families Thames Valley West • 21

By Bilkis Miah

Talking about racial stereotypes With Black Lives Matter still on everyone’s minds, many questions have come to the fore about how we can challenge racial stereotypes and help our children thrive, regardless of their race. As parents and communities become more reflective, here are some tips to help you and your little one identify and talk about race.

How do children learn racial bias?

Children learn about racial bias from a young age, often from their surroundings and the people they come into contact with. This could be at school or in the home environment.

• As early as 6 months, a baby's brain can notice race-based differences.

• Between ages 2 to 4, children can begin to internalise racial bias.

• By age 12, many children become set in their beliefs and embedded in their views about racial stereotypes. This is an important time to work to unpick these beliefs.

So what can I do?

Talk to your children about race and the existence of racial bias. Highlight the differences and commonalities between races, so that they understand that although skin colour may be different, we are all human.

Confront your own bias. Role model how you would like your children to treat others that may be different to them. Check your unconscious bias too - you can find out what your own biases are by doing the Harvard Project Implicit Test. (Google Harvard Implicit).

Awareness helps you recognise which biases you have, and what you can do to counteract them.

Encourage your child to challenge racial stereotypes and bias by exposing them to lots of different people from different cultures from a young age. Use this as a great opportunity for them to learn about different foods, cultures and ways to do things.

Learn about how race can impact gender, class and ability too. When people suffer any form of discrimination, they often face other biases too. Learn about how these can interact with race.

Give your children access to lots of different types of role models. This can be through toys, the media and the books you read to them.

The more they see differences, the more aware they will become. Feel free to use the resources for parents list at youbeyou.co.uk.

Here you can find a list of books, films and tv shows that has been compiled by its parent community. Each challenges stereotypes or portrays great role models for you to share with your children.

Talking about Race Don’t be uncomfortable talking about race.

Talking openly about it will help your child develop the vocabulary and confidence to talk about it too.

Early Years. At this age children will begin to point out differences when they see them (in

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the park, on walks, when shopping). If your child points out or asks about a different skin tone - answer the question with a positive response like: ‘yes, we’re different isn’t that great?’

Primary school. At this stage, it’s really essential to start talking about race as soon as possible. Stereotypes begin to embed in children as young as 6 years old (if not sooner) and so this is the perfect opportunity to answer all the questions your child might have. Don’t shy away from the difficult questions, but if you do need more time, answer with a simple: ‘that’s a really good question, I’m going to do some research and come back to you on that’ and make sure you do follow through.

In general. If your child comments and makes assumptions about a race, use the situation to have a constructive conversation with them.

Further the discussion by asking questions like: ‘How do you feel about that?’ ‘What makes you think that?’ This opens up a healthy channel of communication.

Bilkis Miah is founder of the award-winning You Be You non-profit organisation which works with primary schools, creating engaging KS1 lessons helping to break stereotypes by creating sets of fun, research-informed, crosscurricular lessons to year 1 classes.

Its resources for parents list guides parents towards good resources for children that reflect lots of different types of role model.

Other good resource suggestions can be found at Common Sense commonsense.org and there are also good resources for anyone suffering from racism at Young Minds youngminds.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Outdoor toys for summer We asked our friends at The Good Toy Guide (www.goodtoyguide.com) to put together their recommendations for fun, educational outdoor toys for the season. You can read reviews of each toy on their site.

Discovery Adventures Digital Walkie Talkies Ages 6 to 8 years £24.99 These walkie talkies are great for encouraging children to engage in active and imaginative play, the superfood of the healthy play diet.

The kit includes two lightweight and compact digital walkie talkies with an outdoor range of up to 3km and call alert and press to talk buttons.

Geosafari Kidnoculars Ages 3 to 8 years £22.50 Child-friendly binoculars with built in microphone and no focus required. Promotes STEM-based scientific observation of nature.

Looking and listening to their surroundings teaches children observation skills as well as promotes the learning of new vocabulary.

Diditrike Ages 1 to 2 years £39.99 A lightweight, durable ride-on, which features smooth wheels and an easy to manoeuvre handlebar and no pedals or batteries. It has been designed to provide ultimate support and stability and the freewheeling design allows for some serious whizzing around.

Suitable for use indoors and outdoors on any smooth, flat surface.

Galt Hop Skip Jump Game Ages 5 to 7 years £19.99 An exciting, 3-in-1 floor game for two to four players, this game is great for getting children active indoors and outdoors and encouraging co-ordination and balance. Children layout the coloured discs and use the spinner to decide their next move through the stepping stones, disappearing discs and racetrack.

familiesonline.co.uk

Learning Resources 5 in 1 Outdoor Measure Mate Ages 4 to 7 years £27.00 The 5-in-1 Measure Mate is a great tool for introducing children to the concept of measurement and for showing them it’s not just distance that can be measured. It can be used to its full potential once an adult demonstrates how to use it and is easy for children to take apart to use each element and then put back together again.

Trends Paint-a-Puzzle Ages 3 to 8 years £12.99 Perfect for little hands, Paint-APuzzle comes with twelve giant sturdy pieces, which are easy to build. The super silky Paint Sticks create strong, vibrant colours that bring the puzzle to life. A fun, clean and convenient way to paint with water-soluble, child-friendly solid paint that twists up and down like a glue stick.

Thames & Kosmos First Weather Science Kit Ages 5+ £13.50 Build a weather station and follow the simple instructions delivered mostly through illustrations to carry out eight weather experiments. This Weather Science kit helps address common questions kids have on how weather systems work and allows them to investigate wind, rain, storms, clouds, temperature, evaporation, pressure and more.

The JUNKO Zoomer Kit Ages 6 to 10 years £36.99 A STEM toy that is both fun and educational and turns junk into toys that go, showing children that recycling can be fun! Makes thousands of different toys. Fits all sizes of boxes, bottles and cartons and more. Sturdy, re-usable parts mean the kit can be used again and again.

Discovery Adventures Metal Detector Ages 6+ £22.99 This lightweight metal detector is a great way for young explorers to discover common metal objects.

Featuring a sensitivity and volume control, the detector emits a beeping sound when close to metal, and the flashing indicator lights speed up and change colour.

Email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk • Tel: 07968 711937

Families Thames Valley West • 23

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

familiesonline.co.uk