Families Thames Valley West November-December 2018

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Thames Valley West

IN THIS ISSUE

The best places to catch the man in red before the big day!

This Year’s Must Have Christmas Toys The Region’s Best Pantomimes & Christmas Shows

PLUS

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 07747 086518

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Equipping Your Child for a Digital Future Supporting Friendship Issues Secondary School Options

RECRUITING NOW

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

Where’s Santa?

Issue 98 November/December 2018

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The Look Out Discovery Centre

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Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Tel: 01344 354400 www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

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• Science and Discovery Fun • Over 90 hands-on activities

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

Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Tel: 01344 354400 www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

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

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...endless ideas for families of young children in Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire Families® Thames Valley West • Issue 98 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 Visit us at www.familiesonline.co.uk

Hello from the Editor

In This Issue...

4

News and Views

7

Working from Home

11

Secondary School Options

12

Equipping Our Children for a Digital Future

Thames Valley West

Don’t Miss these great offers • FREE child entry at The Look Out, Discovery Centre, see p.2 • FREE trial with Steppin’ Out, see p.5 • FREE trial at diddi dance, see p.22 • FREE trial lesson at JG Dance, see p.22 • FREE taster class at Monkey Music, see p.23

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Equipping Our Children for a Digital Future Where’s Santa?

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

The Families Team Editor: Lucy Heather Designed by: Ridgeway Press Ltd, 01256 300 420 www.ridgewaypress.co.uk Next Issue: January/February – New Year, New You The Baby Issue Booking deadline: 1st December.

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What’s On

20

Pantos and Christmas Shows

21

This Year’s Must Have Christmas Toys

22

Christmas Cooking Inspiration

As the Christmas countdown begins we have a great festive issue for you, with the best of the season’s pantomimes and Christmas shows for all the family on p19, and the best places to catch Father Christmas before the big day in our Where’s Santa feature on p14-15. Check out our pick of this year’s must have Christmas toys on p20, and take a look at our What’s On section for lots of ideas to keep the kids entertained throughout the holidays.

If your child is going through friendship issues at the moment, our feature on p13 will give lots of useful advice on how you can support them, plus read our guide on equipping our youngsters for a digital future on p12.

Have a great time with family and friends and we’ll see you in the New Year!

Best wishes

Lucy

Please tell advertisers you found them in

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

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

Families Thames Valley West • 3

News & Views

Wondercrump News! The Roald Dahl Museum Reopens After being closed for almost 6 months, The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden has reopened. A downpour over the late May Bank Holiday weekend earlier this year forced the frumptious family attraction to close its Willy Wonka style chocolate doors to visitors whilst essential repairs took place.

Fortunately, the flood damage was limited to one end of the site and so Roald Dahl’s Archive and his world-famous writing hut were unharmed.

However, the Story Centre Gallery has had to be completely stripped out – including the floor – and rebuilt from scratch.

The museum, which opened in 2005 – is located in Great Missenden, the Buckinghamshire village where the World’s No.1 storyteller lived and wrote for 36 years. It features three very hands-on, multi-media galleries ideal for both Grandpa Joes and miniscule Matildas to explore and enjoy.

Great Missenden is the essential scrumdiddlyumptious place for all Roald Dahl fans to visit. Follow one of the museum’s trails to walk the historic High street and the beautiful Buckinghamshire woods in the author’s footsteps and explore the places that inspired him and appear in his stories. See Danny’s dad’s petrol pumps (from Danny, the Champion of the World), Crown House that inspired Sophie’s ‘norphanage’ in The BFG, Matilda’s library, the woods where Fantastic Mr Fox lived, and you can also visit Roald Dahl’s grave (complete with BFG footsteps) at the Church of St Peter and Paul. After that, why not return to the Museum Café to try delumptious snacks, lunches and cakes…even a whizzpopper, if you dare?!

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

For more information follow @roalddahlmuseum on Twitter, like the “Roald Dahl Museum” on Facebook or visit www.roalddahl.com/museum

Reading Family Aid Launches Toys & Teens 2018 Appeal The annual Reading Family Aid Christmas appeal brings a little hope and happiness to families living in desperate need, at a time of year when many feel lost and forgotten about. The charity’s appeal collects and redistributes new or ‘as new’ toys, suitable for ages 0-16, to disadvantaged families at Christmas. All families have been nominated by social workers, and without your help, it is unlikely they will be able to buy their children gifts this year. The donation points will remain open until Sunday 2nd December, after which scores of volunteers will sort, pack and deliver over 10,000 items to their grateful recipients.

Donation points are located all over the borough, from Theale to Twyford, Winnersh and Emmer Green to Shinfield.

In 2017, Reading Family Aid’s Toys and Teens appeal delivered gifts to 1,500 disadvantaged children from over 600 families in time for Christmas, and with the help of the local community it aims to extend its reach even further this year. So whether you’re sorting out your toybox, or Christmas shopping for the young people in your life, please pick up a gift for someone who would appreciate it more than you know.

For more information on how you can support Reading Family Aid’s Toys & Teens appeal, including where to donate, please visit www.readingfamilyaid.org or follow them on Twitter @RdgFamilyAid or Facebook www.facebook.com/readingfamilyaid. If you would like to get involved in volunteering, email info@ReadingFamilyAid.org

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News & Views Odd Socks Day for Anti-Bullying Week Anti-Bullying Week runs from 12 to 16 November 2018 and the theme this year is choosing respect over bullying.

The aim of the week is to support schools to help children understand: • The definition of respect • That bullying is a behavioural choice • That we can respectfully disagree with each other i.e. we don’t have to be best friends or always agree with each other but we do have to show each other respect • That we all need to choose to respect each other, both face to face and online Students are being encouraged to wear odd socks to school on Monday 12 November to show their support and raise money for a good cause.

To get involved, visit www.antibullyingalliance.org.uk

A Daily Mile Improves Children’s Health An initiative to get schoolchildren to walk or run a mile every day leads to significant improvements in their health, according to a study.

The Daily Mile scheme was originally the brainchild of a Scottish head teacher who started it in 2012.

Researchers at Stirling University compared the health of children at a primary school taking part in the scheme with those at a school that wasn’t participating.

The children wore accelerometers which recorded how much moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) they were undertaking every day, and for how long they were sedentary. Children who were doing the Daily Mile were significantly healthier than those who were not.

According to the Daily Mile Foundation, more than 3,600 schools worldwide have introduced the initiative, including about 1,200 in England, 770 in Scotland, 210 in Wales, 85 in Northern Ireland and more than 100 in the Republic of Ireland.

More info at www.stir.ac.uk and www.thedailymile.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

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

Families Thames Valley West • 5

News & Views Babies may not be able to convey complex emotions, but they can still feel what their mothers are feeling, at least when it comes to stress.

minutes of being reunited, Infants of mothers in the “high-stress” condition experienced matching changes in heart rate. This stress contagion effect grew stronger as time passed.

In a recent study, 69 mothers and their babies ages 12 to 14 months had cardiovascular sensors attached to them to record heart rate. The mothers were divided into groups to perform tasks ranging from “no-stress” to “high stress.” Their babies were not with them whilst they carried out these tasks and they were reunited ten minutes later.

“Your infant may not be able to tell you that you seem stressed or ask you what is wrong, but our work shows that, as soon as she is in your arms, she is picking up on the bodily responses accompanying your emotional state and immediately begins to feel in her own body your own negative emotion” said study researcher Sara Waters of New York University.

Researchers then examined changes in heart function. Within

More info, visit www.parentingscience.com

Can Babies Sense Stress?

Beat Head Lice and Nits with the Bug Buster Kit If your children have had head lice before, then you may have been put off using expensive neuro-toxic pesticides on their heads. Bug Busting is a head louse detection and eradication method, which works by combining specially designed bevel-edged combs with your own family shampoo and conditioner.

The Bug Busting method detects & clears lice completely without special treatments, removes lice systematically, breaking the life-cycle in four sessions spaced over two weeks and eliminates unsightly eggshells comfortably.

The Bug Buster Kit is NHS approved and safe for babies, children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and those with allergies. It costs £6.40 plus P&P but is reusable – only one kit is required per family To order a kit or for further information and advice, visit Community Hygiene Concern (CHC) at www.chc.org or call 01908 561928.

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Talking to Young Children About War this Remembrance Day Remembrance Day this year will be on Sunday 11 November and will be especially significant as it will mark 100 years since the original agreement to end fighting during the First World War in 1918, also known as Armistice Day. Accordingly, you can expect that there will be a great deal of media coverage given to this significant commemoration and your child may be prompted to ask you questions.

Discussing war with children can be quite difficult. Recognising this, CBeebies has produced a short animation, simply titled ‘Poppies’ to help convey the notion of remembrance in a way that resonates with a young audience.

It is a really beautiful piece to watch and would be a great way to introduce any discussion of Remembrance Day. The 2 minute film follows a bunny who starts off playing in a meadow, which then becomes a WW1 battlefield.

The film can be viewed on the CBeebies website at www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies familiesonline.co.uk

Working from Home: The Pros and Cons So you want to work from home? For many parents the chance to work from home on a regular basis is the Holy Grail. Not only does it cut down on endless hours spent commuting and travel bills, but it means you are around for your family in case of an emergency.

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et working from home isn’t for everyone.

If you’re in a sector where working from home is possible or you are considering freelancing or running your own business from home, you need to be honest with yourself about whether the pros outweigh the potential cons.

Ask yourself some questions. Do you work best as part of a team, bouncing ideas off each other? It is possible to exchange ideas with people via Instant Messenger and technology is enabling people who work remotely to have virtual colleagues in their home office, but if face to face contact is important to you, then you might find working from home a struggle.

You may be able to mitigate this, of course, through creating or joining a local business network or ensuring you get out regularly to meetings or other events - or even just to walk the dog!

The advantages of working from home are significant. In addition to those mentioned above, the wellbeing of most parents would be enhanced by not having to deal with rush hour traffic or train delays and the anxiety of not getting to school or nursery pick up on time.

One of the worst nightmares for many parents are the days when their child wakes up sick and they have to frantically ring round friends and family to get cover while they go to an important meeting. Not having to deal with this can hugely lower stress levels.

Once you have decided if homeworking is for you, you need to consider what you need to work successfully from home.

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Try to have a Separate Work Space It is good, if possible, to draw a line between home and work so you can close the door on work both mentally and physically at the end of the day. Having a separate space - a room, an outdoor building etc - creates the sense of ‘going to work’. It also means that your work papers are kept separate and away from small hands! Alternatively, if you don't have a separate space, you can still create the feeling of going to work by walking round the block before you start work. You may, of course, need to go out to drop off children in any event before you start your working day.

Make Sure you Have the Technology you Need The basics are likely to be a computer, good phone, Wifi connectivity and a printer. Bear in mind that you are likely to have very little technical support so it is vital to have a backup if the computer stops working and a solution if the internet goes down, for instance, a local library or nearby cafe with Wifi.

Create a Routine Some people like to do the difficult calls or tasks early in the day to get them out of the way and to kick start the day. Take regular breaks, do some exercise and get out and see people. Let people know your working hours and let neighbours and family know you are working and not lounging about at home.

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

Get Good Childcare Employers may stipulate childcare if you are working from home. In any event, it is very stressful trying to work from home with small children, particularly if they don't have regular sleep patterns.If you are working from home while other colleagues are in the office, ensure that you are visible by attending selected social events and meetings and keeping up with people in the office as much as possible.

Co-Working Space If you are not sure about homeworking, but need to work closer to home, you could consider using a co-working space or creating your own local hub with other homeworkers in your area. Alternatively, you could consider homeworking for part of the week to get the best of both worlds.

As with everything, it’s advisable to know yourself and approach different ways of working with your eyes as open as possible.

Sometimes though, it takes a bit of experimentation to know what works best for you. Compromises may be involved.

Ultimately, it is only you who can judge what is best for your family’s circumstances - and, of course, as with all things parenting, those circumstances may change with time...!

Mandy Garner is Editor of Workingmums.co.uk.

Workingmums.co.uk advertises homeworking opportunities and offers tons of advice on how to set up your own business and different ways of working, including case studies in a variety of sectors.

Families Thames Valley West • 7

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

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Another Glowing Report for Jubilee Gems Delighted staff, parents and children are celebrating after receiving another glowing report from Ofsted for Jubilee Gems nursery in Padworth which provides care for children from three months to five years of age. The nursery was recognised as continuing to be ‘Good’ following its latest inspection.

The report highlighted that children and babies are happy, confident and independent learners who enjoy choosing and following their own play ideas from a well-resourced environment.

It also noted staff are ‘consistently kind, caring and patient and positive role models for children, who learn to behave well and confidently consider the needs of others.’

Safeguarding at the nursery was deemed effective with ‘staff having a secure understanding’ and ‘attentive in their supervision of children.’

Inspectors also highlighted how well staff support children’s communication skills and how babies are ‘very confident and develop good early physical skills.’

Sian Caine, Manager of Jubilee Gems said, ‘We are delighted our latest report details so many very positive features. The report is testament to the hard work and commitment of all members of the Jubilee team: children, staff and parents.’

A full copy of the report is available at www.jubileegems.co.uk/join-us/ofsted or from the Ofsted website Jubilee Jets Holiday Club- Open 2nd, 3rd & 4th January, 2019 8.00am-6.00pm with a range of sessions available.

Jubilee Jets is an activity-based club with a caring and energetic team who promise a fantastic day of play for primary school children. There’s always a great range of activities on offer – from seasonal themes to baking, construction and sports. With a ‘free play’ philosophy, children can come with along with their ideas about what they would like to do that day. Situated in Padworth between Reading, Newbury & Basingstoke.

For more information or to book online, visit www.jubileejets.co.uk or Tel: 0118 983 4018

Improve 11+ Vocabulary in a Flash If you are preparing your child for the 11+, building up your child’s vocabulary needs to be top of your list.

Learning challenging vocabulary for entrance exams is easier if you have several techniques up your sleeve, and flash cards are a way of adding some variety and fun at the same time.

Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards have been specifically created to develop the advanced vocabulary needed to underpin your child’s verbal reasoning skills, and ultimately help them succeed in the exam. With clear, child-friendly definitions, they are designed to complement tutor sessions and help parents work with their child.

Flash cards are a powerful learning tool that fits easily into your daily routine; simple and versatile, used regularly they will boost both confidence and results. Easily portable in small sets, the cards allow you to make great use of previously ‘wasted’ pockets of time, perhaps on car journeys or waiting for siblings. The cards will help your child to build up a bank of challenging vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms and compound words.

They can be used in many ways – as classic flash cards, stuck up around the house as words of the week, or a tool to make up your own games to challenge friends and family. They are an invaluable time-saving resource for busy parents.

Free Stay and Play at Crosfields Nursery Interactive ‘Stay & Play’ sessions at Crosfields Nursery in Reading are an excellent opportunity for you and your child to come and spend some relaxed time together and play. Friendly, highly qualified Early Years staff are available to help inspire and develop good social interactions, whilst fostering the children’s natural inquisitiveness and instilling an early love of learning.

Refreshments are available for both children and adults and places are limited. Priority is given to children who have not yet attended a Stay &

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Play session. The next Stay & Play is on Wednesday 5 December from 9.15am-10.30am, with a Christmas Fun theme. Visit the enchanted Christmas Grotto and ride in Santa’s sleigh.

Decorate a Christmas tree, help create a Christmas light display and join in an attempt to make the world’s longest paper chain. Plus, stories, songs and more. Perfect for families with children aged from 18 months – 3 yrs. Register online at www.crosfields.com/newsevents/nursery-stay-play

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

Education News This comprehensive resource includes 6 different packs, each with 200 key words and over 1,000 synonyms: • Levels 1, 2 and 3 provide the foundations of a broad vocabulary • Opposites Level 1 and 2 focus on synonyms and antonyms • the Compound pack helps children recognise the range of words which can be joined to form a new correctly spelt word, which may require a change of pronunciation or emphasis (these can be very hard to spot without practice) For more information visit: www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

The Oratory School celebrates outstanding success in GCSE and A-Level Results.

The Oratory School in Woodcote has once again celebrated a successful set of GCSE and A-Level results, with 46% of grates in the A-A* category for GCSE and 40% achieving A-A* for A-Levels. The majority of A-Level pupils have again gained entry into their first choice universities.

The highest achievers for GCSE included Lucas Sieyes who recorded an impressive three Grade 9s along five A*, one 8 and two 7s, and at A-Level Harry Davies and Sai Muvala both met and exceeded their offers for Medicine at Sheffield and Economics at UCL respectively.

Head Master Joseph Smith, who was present to offer his congratulations to boys and parents said: “Like most schools and candidates, I think there was a certain amount of apprehension about these results, the new specifications and 9-1 grading system for GCSE representing something of a leap into the unknown. Therefore we are all delighted that our boys have performed so well. They, and their teachers should be very proud of their achievements. Throughout the year and the exam period, teachers put on a huge number of extra sessions and worked tirelessly to help their students achieve their target grades. For a school with a broad intake, academically speaking, and a focus on developing young people in a much broader and deeper sense than exam results alone can demonstrate, we are hugely pleased with and proud of these results.” www.oratory.co.uk

Families Thames Valley West • 9

HEAR and NOW Auditory is now working with ADULTS, TEENS and CHILDREN.

Our Auditory training is beneficial for those with APD which commonly coexists with Tinnitus • Vertigo • Dyslexia • Delayed Language Processing • Exam anxiety • Concentration and focus difficulties • Autism spectrum disorder CALL or EMAIL Veronica today for an obligation free chat to find out if Hear and Now AIT can benefit you or your child. veronica@hearandnowauditory.com Mobile: 07534 307 203

• 43% of children with learning difficulties and 25% of people with Dyslexia ALSO had an Auditory Processing Disorder APD. • APD commonly coexists with sensory conditions such as ADD, ADHD, DLP, Autism spectrum disorder, Dyspraxia and hypersensitive hearing.

• Clinically supervised, intensive and highly successful programmes, conducted by Berard practitioner Veronica van Nierop B.Sc; D.C; N.E.T; A.R.T; Find out if AIT could benefit you at your child with a 15 minute chat.

www.hearandnowauditory.com

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

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Options for Secondary School

By Andrew Campbell

Not sure whether your child would do best at an academy, free school or grammar school? The terminology surrounding the different types of secondary school can be baffling. Families explains the differences between the various types of school to help you begin the journey of deciding which school would best suit your child.

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ll schools fall into two broad categories – they are either state schools which are government-funded, either directly or via a local authority, and are free for all pupils, or they are independent schools charging fees.

The education provided in all state schools and some independent schools is inspected and reported on by Ofsted, an independent department of government. You can find Ofsted inspection reports at www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ofsted

These schools are run by an academy trust which employs the staff. Some academies have sponsors such as businesses, universities, other schools, faith groups or voluntary groups.

Whilst academies do not have to follow the national curriculum, they must be seen to be offering a “balanced and broadly based” education and are held accountable through a legally binding ‘funding agreement’.

Community Schools Community schools, also known as maintained schools, are state schools controlled and run by the local authority. The local authority owns the land and buildings and determines the admission arrangements (such as a catchment area). Community schools have to follow the national curriculum and stick to national pay and conditions for teachers.

Free Schools Free schools are a type of academy, but are entirely new schools, established where there is local parent demand, or independent schools becoming state schools for the first time. Free schools are funded directly by the government and have the same powers over their curriculum, finances and teacher recruitment as academies. Teachers, parents, existing schools, educational charities, universities, or community groups can set up free schools.

Academies Academies are state secondary schools which operate outside of local authority control, receiving their funding directly from the government. These schools have more freedom and control over curriculum, school hours, term dates, and staff pay and conditions.

Specialist Schools Specialist schools are state secondary schools that can focus on a particular subject area such technology, language, sports or arts. The schools must meet full national curriculum requirements but have a special focus on the chosen specialist area.

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

Faith Schools and Faith Academies Faith schools and faith academies are affiliated with a certain religion or religious body, such as the Church of England. Unless they are an academy, they have to teach the National Curriculum, although they can teach what they like in RE lessons. Faith academies don’t have to teach the national curriculum and have their own admissions processes. These schools may get some of their funding from a religious organisation, which also usually owns the school buildings and the land. Anyone can apply for a place, but priority is often given to children who practise the faith of the school.

Grammar Schools Grammar schools are state secondary schools that select their pupils by means of an examination taken by children at age 11, known as the "11-plus". They are usually run by a governing body, which acts as admission authority. There are only about 163 grammar schools in England out of a total of about 3,000 state secondaries.

Independent Schools Independent schools are private or public schools and charge fees to attend, rather than being funded by the government. They are governed by a board of governors.

Independent schools may provide education for pupils regardless of ability, but some independent schools select students by ability, requiring them to pass an entrance examination or test.

So now you have the basics, the next step on your journey is to visit the schools you are considering. Talk to the head teachers, where possible, but most importantly, talk to the pupils. Secondary school age students are more than capable of articulating what they like or dislike about their school and are likely to be more honest than almost anyone else!

More info visit www.gov.uk/ childcareparenting /schools-education

Families Thames Valley West • 11

Equipping our Children for a Digital Future

By Casey Farquharson Analysts Gartner have predicted that £19bn will be spent globally on educational technology by 2019. But are we sure that this will make our children better prepared to succeed in the future? Will they possess the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digitalised world?

assistant and Siri can be utilised to maximise their learning experience.

Solitary listeners – individuals that are more comfortable sorting out problems on their own. Videos, online tutorials and audio learning can be utilized to optimize their learning experience.

Verbal listeners – individuals who absorb information more effectively via verbal instruction.

Innovative technology such as Siri, Cortana and Ok Google can be utilized to teach such individuals.

Visual learners – individuals that learn more effectively with pictures and imagery. Tablets and virtual reality technology can be utilized to optimize their learning experience.

It’s clear from the above that technology has the potential to be an effective enabler of specific and overall learning experiences.

However, the key to its sustained effectiveness when it comes to education lies in technology being utilised in a supportive capacity, as against a leading one.

oding is a key tech skill which can help prepare our children for the future.

Yet, according to an article in The Guardian, over 67% of primary and secondary school teachers believe they cannot teach coding because of a lack of 'skills and teaching tools.’ Many schools simply don't have personnel with the required skills and understanding to teach pupils how to code. There is an urgent need for more investment in the education sector to train teachers to code; to attract more individuals to learn and teach coding; and to equip schools, both secondary and primary, with the necessary hardware

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However, it isn’t all about technology. Yes, we want our children to have good tech and digital skills, but character, creativity, and social skills are also vital. No matter how digitalised the world becomes, these three attributes of success cannot be compromised.

The components of character are courage, determination, the audacity to be different, focus, and the ability to ask questions and make one’s own decisions. With creativity comes problem solving skills, innovation, critical thinking, and the ability to think outside the box. Rapport and relationship building, the ability to effectively express oneself both orally and in writing, confidence and collaboration are key components of social skills.

Plying our children with tablets and other forms of tech hardware is most definitely not a sure-proof way to ensure they have these attributes. The point here is not that tablets are bad or not useful, but that they should never be utilised as a be-all and end-all.

Technology should not be a foundation of learning, but rather an enabler and a catalyst.

There are seven learning styles* that need to be understood and embraced if our primary-age children are to get the most from

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

their technology learning experiences: Aural Listeners – individuals that respond primarily to sound.

Technology can be utilized to effectively engage with such individuals via the use of podcasts and audio teaching tools.

Logical learners – individuals with logical and organized minds. Mind mapping technology can be effectively utilized to improve their learning experience.

Physical learners – individuals who respond to words that incite feeling and activity. They like to understand what it feels like to go through the motions of what they are learning. Virtual reality technology can be utilized to optimize their learning experience.

Social learners – Individuals that respond to teachers who are inquisitive and ask what they are thinking and feeling about key topics and concepts. Search engines such Google, Google

If we want our children to succeed in the future, then we must protect their emotional and psychological wellbeing. It is time to take responsibility for educating children, not only on the distinct dangers of the digital world but also on the importance of the true foundations of positive selfesteem. In order for our children to prosper in the future it is absolutely vital that we improve and preserve their emotional well-being – and appropriate technology training and learning scenarios can play a part in that education. *Source: www.educationdegree.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Casey Farquharson is the founder of IDEAS Bus, an interactive educational platform (on wheels!) designed to help educators discover the latest cutting-edge learning technology and students to get hands on coding, tech and digital media experience. More info at http://theideasbus.org.uk

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Supporting your Child with Friendship Challenges

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ife and relationships are not always easy and we learn our skills as children, watching the interactions of our parents and other adults in our lives. What we learn as children then sets our patterns of relating in adulthood.

Falling out with friends is normal during childhood and it is through struggling with friendship challenges that our children learn about themselves, relationships and how best to interact with others. We cannot make these decisions for our children but we can guide them gently and encourage them to use their instinct, intuition and intellect.

Dr Nicola Farr is an experienced parenting coach and mum of three. She says: “Children have an innate understanding of our human connectedness, and seeking out playmates and companions is a very natural part of development. Particularly in very young children, there’s a simplicity and genuineness in the way they build relationships that is a delight to watch. It rarely occurs to them that they need to do or be anything to be loved, and they are still deeply in touch with their inner worth and wellbeing.

“But navigating the highs and lows of friendships and understanding social rules requires highly complex skills and a pretty sophisticated level of brain development, so it’s almost inevitable that your children will go through periods of disputes, fallings-out and rough patches.”

The most important thing we can do when our children are struggling with friendship issues is to listen. Falling out with their friends can feel like the worst thing in the world. Saying anything negative about their friends at this point will only cause your child to withdraw and can create further emotional confusion for them. Gently encouraging your child to talk about their feelings can help to identify areas of conflict, disagreement or unfairness which may have led to the fall out.

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Dr Farr adds, ‘There will be times when your children come home and tell you they have no friends or no-one to play with. More often than not, this is nothing to worry about and is an entirely normal part of development. But there are things you can do to help them on this journey. In fact, how a child’s caregiver responds and handles these situations is often vital in determining how the child will handle it.”

When friends fall out, it doesn’t necessarily mean any of the children in the mix did anything wrong. Fall outs just happen and they can happen all the time! Girls especially can change friends quickly, moving from one to another in succession. There is an important lesson here too - that friendships grow and change and sometimes come to an end. Sharing your own stories of your own friendship experiences can be helpful, showing your children that friendships can hit a rocky patch which has to be worked through.

Help your children to understand the importance of sharing, taking someone else’s feelings into account and listening to each other.

It’s important that children learn about allowing their friends the privilege of sharing their feelings without being judged. Teach your children that their friends should also allow them this privilege too.

We can teach our children to decide whether a friendship is worth persevering with or whether it’s best to just walk away. Don’t be afraid to talk about the differences between healthy and toxic relationships. It’s important to help children understand that there are different kinds of friends too – best, great, good and casual friends - and that new people are constantly coming into our lives.

Try to avoid taking sides, actively interfering or taking decisions for your child about their friendships. Working through their experiences is an extremely important part of growing up and a learning curve for adulthood and taking this away from them robs them of the chance to learn valuable life lessons.

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

Dr. Nicola Farr is a child psychologist, coach and founder of Heart Parenting.

She specialises in helping parents uncover and trust their own wisdom so that they can relax and feel confident that they are raising kids who will thrive. More information about working with her at: www.heartparenting.com

Dr Farr also warns against projecting our own memories and insecurities onto our children.

She says, “Stay present to the reality in front of you. Deeply listen to what your child is actually saying, and what actually happened. Friendship difficulties can trigger lots of memories in us, many of them painful, and if we’re not careful we can disappear in our heads into our own stories and inadvertently find ourselves projecting a whole load of past fears and worries onto our child’s scenario.”

Studies show that children who have healthy relationships with the adults in their lives are more likely to make sound decisions about friendship, because they understand things like empathy and mutual respect, and they have better problem-solving skills. So above all, nurture your own relationship with your children and others in your family.

Lianna Champ has over 40 years’ experience in bereavement and grief recovery. Her new book How to Grieve Like a Champ is out now priced £9.99. More information at www.champfunerals.com

Do you feel overwhelmed by parenting or your child’s behaviour and need some support?

Dr. Nicola Farr is a transformational coach specialising in supporting parents to feel empowered and confident in raising their kids and in all aspects of their lives.

Please get in touch for a free, no obligation chat to see how I can help you: nicola@heartparenting.com or via Instagram @drnicolafarr

Families Thames Valley West • 13

Where’s Santa?

A little elf has told us where Santa can be found in the run-up to Christmas so if you can’t wait until the big day, why not pop along and meet him at one of the events below. Don’t forget to book early, as these events are always popular!

SANTA CRUISES WITH HOBBS OF HENLEY 01491 572 035 www.hobbsofhenley.com Bring the magic of the festive season home to your family a little earlier this year with an entertainment-packed trip down the Thames and a visit from Father Christmas. Hobbs of Henley’s ever-popular Santa Cruises feature magic family entertainment from Bertie Slippers, mulled wine for adults and juice for children, and home-made mince pies and cakes, all on board the flagship New Orleans.

Early pre-booking is essential for these very popular weekend river trips and culminate with a visit from Father Christmas when the vessel docks back at Hobbs Boatyard. Adults £20, Seniors £17, Child £13, under 3’s free. 15 & 16 Dec at 10.30, 1pm and 3.30pm.

PERSONAL VISITS FROM SANTA IN HIS MOBILE GROTTO WITH BASIL & CREW www.basil-and-crew.co.uk/santasmobile-grotto 01628 821 145, 07721 422 554 How would you like Santa, his elves and a few of his animals to come to your event for a personal visit before all the presents are delivered on Christmas Eve? Santa will come to your event in his own personal trailer – his home away from home. Visit his mobile lounge decorated with toys and lights, meet some of his favourite pets and share your Christmas list with him. Early booking recommended!

amazing grotto, where children will receive a seasonally themed soft toy. During the grotto, visit Santa’s official elf photographer who will take photos of your group which can be purchased later.

DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS TO MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS AT DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE Didcot Parkway Station, OX11 7NJ, 01235 817200 www.didcotrailwaycentre.co.uk A must for all Thomas the Tank Engine and train fans – a trip on carriages pulled by Thomas to meet Father Christmas in his grotto, and lucky children will also receive a present.

Weekends from 1st December. £16. Booking is essential for this popular event.

SANTA AND HIS REINDEER AT OAKTREE GARDEN CENTRE Brockhill, Bracknell Road, Warfield, RG42 6LH, 01344 890 667, www.oaktreegardencentre.com From £12 per child, Adults £3, Children under 12 months £7, daily from 24 Nov Walk through a magical Christmas display of lit trees, festive characters and peer through the old shop windows on your way to meet Mother Christmas in her kitchen. During your visit to Mother Christmas’s kitchen she and the elves will help you decorate your own gingerbread cookie to take away. After leaving the kitchen the elves will take you to visit some of Santa’s reindeer. The elves will share the secret of the magical reindeer relish which you will be given a bag of to leave out on the big night! Finally, your party will visit Santa in his

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

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LAPLAND UK Whitmore Forest, Swinley Road, Ascot, SL5 8BD, www.laplanduk.co.uk Lapland UK provides an immersive theatrical experience that begins with a personalised invitiation in the post for every child. On arrival, families travel along forest pathways to a snowy wonderland where they visit the Toy Factory to help the elves and Mother Christmas’s Kitchen to decorate gingerbread and gather for storytelling. Then it’s skates on at the ‘ice’ rink in the Elves Village with a chance to meet the resident huskies and reindeer, before having a personalised meeting with Father Christmas. Book in advance.

Tickets from £49.

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Hyde Park Winter Wonderland will launch on 22 November this year, with a host of glittering attractions, shows, activities, rides and games perfect for the ultimate festive family day out.

With a huge variety of food and drink stalls, cafes and themed bars, this year’s most anticipated seasonal showcase will see the entire family fully entertained. This year there will be a 45m long, real Ice Slide, part of the brand new Santa Land 2018. Grab an ‘ice tube’ and experience skimming down an ice covered ‘mountain’ slide before visiting Santa in his grotto. Entry is free but rides and attractions must be purchased.

CHRISTMAS AT PAULTONS PARK - HOME OF PEPPA PIG WORLD Romsey, The New Forest, SO51 6AL, www.paultonspark.co.uk Christmas is a special time at Paulton’s Park.

You can meet Santa in his magical grotto, experience Peppa Pig World in a festive setting and enjoy selected rides and attractions including Lost Kingdom and Critter Creek across the park. Open on selected dates from 24 Nov-23 Dec. Santa’s Grotto is available to

book from 9.30am-5.15pm on selected dates in November and December and park entry is included in the price, with rides open from 10am. Meet Santa in his magical grotto and many of his animal friends along the way as they all get ready for Christmas Eve. Adorable animated characters greet you at every turn with twinkling lights and magical scenes brought to life. Peppa Pig World is transformed with twinkling illuminations, seasonal music and giant Christmas trees. Santa in his sleigh with the reindeer from the series can be seen, and you can meet Peppa Pig and George in their winter hats, scarves and coats. You’ll be greeted by the giant musical Christmas Tree in the entrance plaza which performs a festive song and light show every 15 minutes, and catch a show featuring Frosty, Rudolf and two cheeky elves Billy and Belinda in a festive performance on the Show Stage with live singing, dancing and a sprinkle of snow!

November dates: Adults £26.75, Children from 2 yrs £29, Under 2’s £16.50. December dates: Adults £29.50, Children from 2 yrs £31.75.

Under 2’s £18.00 SANTAS GROTTO AT SOUTH HILL PARK From 1-2, 7-9 and 14-24 Dec, Santa will be visiting his grotto at South Hill Park. Decorate your own Christmas ornament with the elves before going to see Father Christmas himself in your very own, uniquely personalised visit.

He’ll check to see if you’re on his Good List, and with a sprinkle of Christmas magic, you’ll receive a Christmas gift. New for 2018, send your letters in to Father Christmas for an additional personal touch. Tickets £12, Under 2’s £5. Tickets available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/shpgrotto or the South Hill Park Box Office on 01344 484 123.

BUCKLEBURY FARM PARK, Bucklebury, nr.

Reading, RG7 6RR, 0118 971 4002, www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk From 8-23 Dec Santa’s Grotto will be open on Fri/Sat/Sun/Mon. The farm park will be decorated and looking its best, Woody’s Café will offer a Christmas themed menu with Christmas lunch for all the family, home-made mince pies and festive fare. There are donkeys and deer to feed and Santa will be dropping into his Grotto until 23 Dec. Don’t miss the Magic of Christmas Weekend from 22-23 Dec where you can meet Santa and his reindeer, take part in Christmas craft, gingerbread decoration with Mrs Claus, groom the donkeys and finish with a ride on the Polar Express.

Booking essential, £20 per child.

THE ULTIMATE LEGO CHRISTMAS AT THE LEGOLAND WINDSOR RESORT Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY, 0871 222 2001, www.legoland.co.uk Festive fun is back at the LEGOLAND Windsor Resort this Christmas season. On 1-2, 8-9 and 15-23 December 2018, families can meet Father Christmas and discover over 30 rides, attractions and Christmas activities. Tickets are £36 per person or £26 per person for Annual

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Passholders and can be booked online in advance only. Guests can discover an enchanted Christmas land, where little ones will meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto and receive a LEGO Christmas gift. In Miniland, Christmas will come to life with miniature LEGO festive additions to London and Scotland, from a bustling Christmas market in Covent Garden to Father Christmas flying over Big Ben in his sleigh.

CHRISTMAS FUN AT ODDS FARM PARK Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, HP10 0LX, 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk 1-24 Dec. Odds Farm has been sprinkled with even more magic and spectacular surprises than ever before. Present your Christmas Spectacular Pass to the elves at the North Pole and meet Father Christmas, head into the Elves Workshop to create your extraordinary takehome gift before finally going on to the Toy Shop to choose your spectacular Christmas present. In addition, you can take part in festive games, arts and crafts, interact with some special guests and enjoy even more surprises. Christmas Spectacular Pass from £13.90.

BREAKFAST OR TEA WITH SANTA at Hare Hatch (Wyvale), Winnersh (Country Gardens), Binfield (Wyvale), and Thatcham (Wyevale) garden centres, www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk From 17-24 Dec, several local garden centres are running special breakfast and tea events where you can enjoy a meal and then join the elves to welcome Father Christmas who will help each child choose their very own present.

They will also be given a Christmas tree cookie to decorate. Further details and times available on the website. Children £10.95, Adults from £5.

Families Thames Valley West • 15

What’s On November-December 2018 LOCAL ATTRACTIONS ODDS FARM PARK, Wooburn Common, Wooburn Green, High Wycombe, HP10 0LX, 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk Daily from 1-24 Dec CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Odds Farm Park has been sprinkled with even more Christmas magic and spectacular surprises than ever before.

Take your Christmas Spectacular Pass though the Enchanted Forest to start your magical journey to the North Pole. Meet the elves and Father Christmas, head into the Elves’ Workshop to create your extraordinary take-home gift, and finally, step into the Toy Shop to choose your Christmas Spectacular present. From £13.95 in addition to standard admission fee. Under 2’s free.

THE LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 4000, www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre There are over 90 hands-on science activities for children of all ages to enjoy at The Look Out Discovery Centre. You can launch a hydrogen rocket, play with boats in the indoor stream or build a house with your friends. Activities and exhibits are organised in ‘zones’ which correspond with what your child may be learning about in school: Forces & Movement, Body & Perception, Light & Colour, Woodland & Water and Build It where you can use the rubble chute, wheelbarrows, design a house or drive a dumper truck.

Open daily from 10am-5pm. Extra shows run at The Look Out on weekends and school holidays.

10 Nov-6 Jan THE DINOSAUR SHOW Give us your best dinosaur ROAR as you become part of the herd. Guide the dinosaurs through the challenges to help them survive. It’s so REXciting! Show times at weekends and Bracknell Forest school holidays: 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3.15pm. Cost £1.95 in addition to entry price. No need to book – just buy show tickets at reception on the day. Suitable for primary-school aged children 13/14 Nov & 10/11 Dec TODDLER DAYS Toddler Days at The Look Out are especially for the under 5’s. There are no school bookings and extra activities are laid on such as arts & craft, storytelling and face or hand painting. 10am-4pm. No need to book – just turn up! Theme for 13-14 Nov is Dinosaurs and 10-11 Dec is Space.

LEGOLAND WINDSOR RESORT Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY, www.legoland.co.uk 1-2, 8-9, 15-23 Dec THE ULTIMATE LEGO CHRISTMAS Festive fun is back at the LEGOLAND Windsor resort this Christmas season. On 1-2, 8-9 and 15-23 December 2018, Families can meet Father Christmas and discover over 30 rides, attractions and LEGO Christmas activities. Guests can discover an enchanted Christmas land, where little ones will meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto and receive a LEGO Christmas gift. In Miniland, Christmas will come to life with miniature LEGO festive additions to London and Scotland, from a bustling Christmas market in Covent Garden to Father Christmas flying over Big Ben in his sleigh. Father Christmas’s elves will be on

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

the lookout for little helpers to write letters to Father Christmas and build LEGO candy canes and festive decorations.

Families can take part in a LEGO scavenger hunt and marvel at the stunning 8 metre high LEGO Christmas Tree before heading to Mrs Christmas’s Toy Shop where they can build their very own LEGO decoration to take home. Plus, costume characters Ollie the Dragon and LEGO Santa will be on hand to spread the festive cheer. A special Secret Shopping service will be in action for guests stocking up on LEGO goodies during their festive visit.

On hearing the word ‘Rudolph’ LEGOLAND staff will jump into action and help mums and dads keep their purchases under wraps with a range of fun diversionary activities to keep the little ones occupied. Online pre-book only, £36 per person. Pre-booked children under the age of 2 get free entry, with the option to purchase a gift for £5 for Father Christmas meet and greet.

NATIONAL TRUST

BASILDON PARK, Lower Basildon, Reading, RG8 9NR, 0118 984 3040, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/basildonpark Daily from 1 Dec – 6 Jan CHRISTMAS IN THE HOUSE Basildon Park is a house made for Christmas and the house team never disappoint with giant Christmas trees donated from the Yattendon estate and sumptuous decorations and floral displays.

Celebrating its 40th year of National Trust ownership, Basildon Park is ambitiously presenting Christmas through the ages this year. There’ll be Georgian feasts from the time of the manor’s construction by Sir Francis Sykes as a seat to entertain wealthy guests from London. Other rooms will capture the romance and elegance of the Regency period and there’ll be Edwardian splendour representing the grand era of Archie Morrison who frittered £11 million in 19 years. The Victorians are recognised in the library and Second World War in the Sutherland Room. Basildon Park is also serving two course Christmas dinners in the tea room from 3-21 December. Two courses, Adults £19.95, Child £10.05 GREYS COURT, near Henley on Thames, RG9 4PG, 01491 628 529, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/greyscourt Daily from 1 Dec – 6 Jan SWISS CHRISTMAS AT GREYS COURT The Brunner family, the last residents of Greys Court, often spent Christmas with family in Switzerland. The house team are recreating some of their family traditions in the house and decorating with the cosy domestic style that is so appealing at Greys Court. The scent of gingerbread and mince pies being prepared by the volunteers in Lady Brunner’s kitchen always adds to the magic. This year Greys Court is offering some special candlelit tours in the evening followed by mulled wine and mince pies, and is also serving two course Christmas dinners in the tea room from 3-21 December. Christmas Dinners and Candlelit Tours must be prebooked online. Christmas Dinners, two courses: Adult £19.95, Child, £10.96.

Candlelit Tours £12.

HUGHENDEN, nr High Wycombe, 01494 755 573, nationaltrust.org.uk/Hughenden Daily from 23 Nov -2 Jan A VERY ROYAL CHRISTMAS – A VISIT FROM THE FAERY It’s 1877 and the whole house is preparing

for Queen Victoria’s visit to Hughenden.

See the manor decorated in all its Victorian splendour. The event is free, but normal admission charges apply. Suitable for all ages. 11am-5pm.

8-9, 15-16, 22-23 Dec FATHER CHRISTMAS GROTTO Meet Father Christmas in his Victorian inspired grotto at Hughenden and receive a Christmas gift. Book in advance 0344 249 1895, Children £8.

WADDESDON MANOR, nr Aylesbury, HP18 0JH, 01296 820 414 10 Nov – 2 Jan CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL Festive decorations in selected rooms in the house, inspired by the Venetian carnival and 18th Century fancy dress. In the grounds, enjoy interactive light displays, sound and light projections and children’s craft activities. Adult £5, Child £2.50, 11am-6pm 10 Nov – 16 Dec CHRISTMAS FAIR More than 80 select exhibitors house in charming wooden chalets selling a range of high-quality, unique gift, decorations and plenty of mulled wine. 11am-6pm.

CLIVEDEN, nr Taplow, SL1 8NS, 01628 605 069, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden 1-2, 8-9, 15-16 & 20-24 Dec MOTHER CHRISTMAS: CLIVEDEN’S FESTIVE ADVENTURE This year, Mother Christmas’ enchanted world comes to Cliveden, and she needs your help to send Father Christmas off on time! The estate has transformed into their magical workshop and they need your help preparing for the busiest night of the year, all before Christmas Eve draws to a close. Will you complete all your tasks before the world awakes on Christmas Day? Suitable for children aged 3-13, £5. Dogs on leads welcome.

10.30am-2.30pm. This is an outdoor trail so bring warm, comfortable clothing and footwear.

ONGOING EVENTS

Weekly FRIDAY FLEDGLINGS at The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL), University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.merl.reading.ac.uk A weekly outdoor session for the under 3’s in the fantastic urban garden at the MERL. Discover the benefits of outdoor learning led by Charlotte, a local teacher and Level 3 Forest Leader. Join in outdoor activities inspired by the themes and collections in the museum. Enjoy outdoor play and explore the natural environment. Each session involves story-telling, craft activities and singing. £3 per child (includes a snack and a drink). Children and adults must dress for the weather (there are a small number of children’s wellies and waterproofs to borrow if necessary). 10am-11.30am, term time only.

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Families Thames Valley West • 17

MORE Weekly BIG SCREAM CLUB, TODDLER TIME AND KIDS CLUBS at The Regal Picturehouse, Boroma Way, Henley, RG9 2BZ, 0871 902 5738, www.picturehouses.com Big Scream Club runs on Fridays at 11am exclusively for parents with babies under 1 year so you can catch up on the latest film releases. Toddler Time on Tuesdays at 11am offers special 30 minute shows designed to introduce little ones to the big screen, followed by fun activities. For the older ones there’s Kids Club every Saturday showing a classic film at 11am plus pre-screening activities.

Weekly TALES FOR TOTS – STORY TIME FOR THE UNDER 5’S at Reading Museum, The Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QU, 0118 937 3400, www.readingmuseum.org Enjoy a story using objects from the Museum’s collection. Every Wednesday at 10.30am-11.30am in The Green Space or Window Gallery. Just drop in. FREE. Weekly FAMILY ACTIVITY TASTER SESSIONS at Dinton Activity Centre, Dinton Pastures Country Park, Sandford Lane, Reading, RG10 0SU, www.dintonpastures.co.uk Give it a go – taster sessions give everyone a chance to try something new at an affordable price. From £20 per person or £36 for two people. Booking essential.

Weekly RHYME AND SHINE at The Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 521 8218, www.cornexchangenew.com Suitable for parents with babies 2 and under. A relaxed singing session with a range of songs, rhymes and rhythms in a fun and relaxed environment. Singing

with your child is a great way to encourage their language development, whilst actions help develop motor skills.

Meet other parents too! Price includes a hot drink from the Corn Exchange Kitchen & Bar. 10.15-11am, £3.50 per session.

Weekly RHYME TIME at Reading Central Library, Abbey Square, Reading, RG1 3BQ Rhyme Time every Monday (except bank holidays), Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 10.30am-11am. No need to book, just drop in. FREE. Weekly BOARD GAME CLUB at Southcote Library, Southcote Lane, Reading, RG30 3BA, 0118 901 5109 A weekly free board game club for ages 912 from 4.10pm-5.10pm.

Weekly LEGO CLUB at Winnersh Library, The Forest School, Robin Hood Lane, Winnersh, RG41 5ND, 0118 979 7519, www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries Every Thursday during term time for children aged 5-10 years. 4pm-4.45pm, 50p.

Weekly STORY TIME at Caversham Library, Church Street, Caversham, RG4 8AU An experienced storyteller will bring stories to life for the Under 5’s every week during term time. Sessions must be booked in advance via the library.

Weekly TODDLER CRAFT at Southcote Library, Southcote Lane, RG30 3BA, 0118 901 5109 A free craft session for the Under 5’s from 11am-11.30am Monthly NATURE EXPLORERS at The Nature Discovery Centre, Muddy Lane, Lower Way, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG18 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.bbowt.org.uk A monthly parent and toddler group with a difference. A great opportunity each

month for you and your pre-school child to have fun in natural surroundings. Each session includes activities such as bughunting, mud-painting and mask-making.

Tea, biscuits and mud provided! Booking essential and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Please dress for the weather. £5.

Monthly NATURE TOTS DIDCOT at Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre, nr. Didcot, OX14 4TE, www.bbowt.org.uk An opportunity each month for you and your pre-school little one to interact with and learn from nature. Come along for an outdoor nature play, games, stories and craft on the wild and wonderful nature reserve. Booking essential. Dress for the weather. 9.30am-11.30am, £5.

Monthly STAY AND PLAY at The Abbey Nursery, 30 Christchurch Road, Reading, RG2 7AR, 0118 931 3111, www.theabbey.co.uk Held on the first Thursday of every month, The Abbey Nursery’s FREE Stay and Play sessions offer you and your toddler a safe and stimulating environment to make friends and to enjoy learning through play.

Inspiring creative and imaginative play and encouraging your child’s natural curiosity is central to The Abbey’s learning ethos.

Set in the University area of central Reading, children can explore the nursery garden and play with a range of toys, dressing up, science and role play equipment as well as take part in activities such as art, cooking, music and movement as they find out about the theme for the month. Refreshments are provided for the children and parents/carers. Limited places, email stayandplay@theabbey.co.uk or call 0118 987 2256 for more information.

NOVEMBER

Add Beale Park to your list of places to shop this Christmas!

We have a host of unique gift ideas including: • Animal, Bird, Tree & Bench Sponsorship • Annual Season Tickets • Gift Vouchers To get Christmas all wrapped up, please call: 01189 767 480 or visit www.bealepark.org.uk

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

3 Nov THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY at South Hill Park Theatre & Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk I don’t know why she swallowed a fly, but The Peoples Theatre Company do! And now you can too as they bring one of the world’s best-loved stories to life to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Pam Adams’ hugely popular book. Suitable for ages 2+. Meet the characters after the show for a book signing and photos.

2.30pm-3.35pm, tickets £13, £11, Family Ticket (4 people) £43 11 Nov BALLET – BEAUTY AND THE BEAST at South Hill Park Theatre & Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk Belle, a beautiful, intelligent young woman, feels out of place in her provincial village. When her father is imprisoned in a mysterious castle, Belle’s attempt to rescue him leads to her capture by the Beast. Little does she know that he is a prince and the only way the Beast may become human again is if he learns to love and be loved in return. Ballet Theatre UK’s production of The Nutcracker sold out in 2017, and this is sure to be another hit. 3pm-5pm, tickets £20.50, £19.50, Under 19’s £13.50, Family Ticket (4 people) £60.

17 Nov NICK COPE FAMILY MUSIC at The Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 521 8218, www.cornexchangenew.com

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Join Nick Cope for his ever popular interactive music sessions with songs about everything from counting to how plants grow. 10.30am-11.30am. Suitable for children aged 8 and under. £4 per ticket.

17 Nov KIDMORE END PRIMARY SCHOOL CHRISTMAS FAIR, at Kidmore End Primary School, Chalkhouse Green Road, Kidmore End, Reading, RG4 9AU. 12pm - 3pm. Attractions include Santa's Grotto, games & craft activities, mince pies, mulled wine, hot drinks, cakes, silent auction, raffle & tombola. Entry £2 per adult in advance or £2.50 on the door, children are free.

22-25 Nov COUNTRY HOMES AND INTERIORS CHRISTMAS at Stonor Park, Stonor, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 6HF Discover a world of festive country style and gorgeous shopping at Country Homes & Interiors Christmas, returning to Stonor Park this November after a soldout show last year. In collaboration with the magazine, this boutique event presents a handpicked collection of makers and country brands with more than 100 stands brimming with beautiful home and lifestyle buys, plus unique Christmas gifts for family and friends. The event is set in a purpose-built, heated marquee in the grounds of Stonor Park House. 10am-4pm, Adults £11 in advance (£12 on the door), Senior £10 (£11 on the door). Entry to Show and Stonor House, Adult £17, Senior £16. Under 16’s free if accompanied by a parent, otherwise £4.

For show details and tickets visit www.ichfevents.co.uk 24 Nov CAROLS AT THE CORN EXCHANGE at The Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 521 8218, www.cornexchangenew.com For the past 25 years, the Salvation Army Newbury has held an annual concert at The Corn Exchange. Enjoy a festive evening with the Central Southern Area Fellowship Band, The Willows School Choir and The Basingstoke Salvation Army Timbrels. 7.30pm. Tickets £9.

25 Nov WOKINGHAM WINTER CARNIVAL in Wokingham Town Centre, www.wintercarnival.org.uk Wokingham Carnival is a free community event held in the town centre with entertainment for all the family. The event attracts many thousands of visitors from Wokingham Borough and others who travel from all over Berkshire and surrounding counties. Attractions for the day include funfair rides, over 125 food, craft and charity stalls, non-stop FREE entertainment including a magic show, Punch and Judy, comedy jugglers, clowns, Morris Dancers and other special entertainers. Santa will also be in his grotto, in the warmth of the library from 11am-3pm. Younger visitors are very welcome to come and visit with him and share their Christmas present lists with him.

30 Nov-6 Jan JACK AND THE BEANSTALK at The Corn Exchange, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 521 8218, www.cornexchangenew.com Fee Fi Fo Fum, we smell lots of panto fun!

Expect adventure, mayhem and a gigantic helping of magic in the Corn Exchange’s 2018-2019 panto. Join Jack and the whole gang on an adventure of enormous

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proportions, from high-flying dreams to magical beans; prepare to be transported to the enchanted panto-land of Newbury Bottom, where anything is possible.

Climb the beanstalk with Jack and enjoy high-energy dance routines, tunes to sing along to and plenty of audience participation, which will leave you on cloud nine! Tickets £22.50-£25, Concessions £20-22, Preview Performances £15, Group offer on selected performances.

DECEMBER

1-2, 8-9, 15-16 and 22-23 Dec DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS AND MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS at Didcot Railway Centre, OX11 7NJ, www.daysoutwiththomas.co.uk Thomas is a regular visitor to Didcot Railway Centre where he is welcomed by his friends The Great Western Engines.

The Fat Controller supervises Rev W.Audry’s classic children’s favourite – Thomas the Tank Engine – on his ‘Days Out With Thomas’ visits. At Christmas, Thomas likes to take all his young friends to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. A wide range of souvenirs are available in the Thomas Shop. There is a refreshment room serving lunches, snacks and drinks, and also a picnic area where you can sit and watch the trains go by. Admission prices: Adults & Children 1-15 yrs, £16, includes a present from Father Christmas.

Senior Citizens 60+yrs £15. Booking essential.

1-2 Dec LANTERN MAKING FOR THE BRAVE at 101 Outdoor Arts Creation Space, Communications Road, Thatcham, RG19 6HN, 01635 582 666, www.101outdoorarts.com Work with professional lantern makers and create an elaborate lantern ready for this year’s procession. The annual Lantern Procession is a stunning winter event that brings the community together to celebrate the festive season. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Workshops start at 10am on both days.

Free but booking essential.

1 Dec CHRISTMAS FAMILY CRAFT WORKSHOP at West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, www.westberkshireheritage.org/westberkshire-museum Paper Sculpture: Learn how to construct a paper sculpture based on cutting, curling and folding paper. Choose to make either a Father Christmas head with a lift-off hat, or a circular design based on a holly wreath that you can use to decorate your home. Suitable for ages 7+. Under 15’s must be accompanied by an adult. Book in advance on 01635 519 562. 10.30am11.30am, £3.50 per child.

2 Dec CHRISTMAS FAIR at Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 279 279, www.westberkshireheritage.org/shawhouse If you’re looking for unique and creative Christmas gifts then the Christmas Fair at Shaw House is not to be missed! Over 60 amazing local crafters, bakers, artists and photographers all brimming with bespoke wares that can’t be found on the high street. With mulled wine, hot food and Living Nativity with Millers Ark animals. £1 adults, children free. 11am-4pm.

2 Dec CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS PARTIES at Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 279 279, www.westberkshireheritage.org/shawhouse

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It’s Christmas time at Shaw House, featuring Mr Muddles the charming, if muddlesome, magician, who captivates and amazes children with his comical slapstick magic. There will also be a special visit from Father Christmas and all children will receive a present. £5 per child, tickets must be purchased in advance from Shaw House on 01635 279 279. Due to limited space, only 1 adult per child. Please note, Shaw House is a Grade I listed building and unfortunately cannot accommodate pushchairs. Hip seats are available for children 6 months-3yrs.

8/9, 15/16, 22/23 Dec SANTA SPECIALS ON THE CHOLSEY & WALLINGFORD RAILWAY, 5 Hithercroft Road, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 9QD, 01491 835 067, www.cholseywallingford-railway.com Celebrate the festive season in a family friendly way! Father Christmas and Mother Christmas are on board every train with gifts for children. You can board the train at either Wallingford or Cholsey.

Online ticket prices £10, Child 2-5yrs £7, Children under 2, £5. Walk-up ticket prices Adults £12, Child 2-5yrs £8, Children under 2 £5. Trains depart from Wallingford at 10.30am, 11.45am, 1pm, 2.15pm and 3.30pm and from Cholsey at 11.10am, 12.25pm, 1.40pm and 2.55pm.

8 Dec CHRISTMAS CREATIONS at River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk A chance to make special decorations to bring sparkle to the festive season. You will use stained glass effects, embossing foil, paper modelling and lots more!

Suitable for 4-11 yrs, £8.50 per child.

Booking essential – 01491 415 600 to book.

14 Dec NEWBURY CHRISTMAS SINGALONG, Market Place, Newbury, www.greenhamtrust.com Greenham Trust, working in partnership with Visit Newbury, is bringing a festive, musical extravaganza to Newbury this Christmas. The Newbury Christmas SingAlong will feature the UK’s leading Buble tribute act, local choirs and the Cold Ash Brass Band. With opportunities for everyone to sing along to their Christmas favourites, the event is the perfect way for the whole community to get into the Christmas spirit. Local choirs will perform seasonal songs throughout the town centre, and then come together for the traditional and powerful 1000 Voices rendition of the 12 Days of Christmas. The event starts in the Market Place at 6pm, ends at 9pm and is free for the whole community to participate in. Festive refreshments will be available for all, while younger children can add some funfair magic to their evening.

15 Dec FATHER CHRISTMAS’S VICTORIAN WINTER GROTTO at Reading Museum (Abbey Gateway), 0118 937 3400, www.readingmuseum.org.uk Can you hear his sleigh bells? Step back into Christmases past in this special Saturday event and make a traditional decoration for your home. Compose a letter and then present it to Father Christmas and receive a special gift before you leave. A magical experience for those who still believe! ½ hour sessions at 10am, 10.45am, 11.30am, 1pm, 1.45pm and 2.30pm. £5 per person. Booking essential.

15 Dec MASTER BUILDERS CLUB – CHRISTMAS LEGO BUILDING WORKSHOP at Sonning Common Village

Hall, Wood Lane, Sonning Common, RG4 9SL, www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk Do you love LEGO? Calling all young designers, engineers and inventors – Master Builders Club needs you! A two hour Christmas-themed workshop with LEGO building challenges. Master Builders Club workshops follow a different theme each session and after setting the scene with a short story, the Master Builders will complete a number of build challenges. Master Builders Club aims to inspire children to be original in their designs and share their ideas. At the end of the session, the Master Builders are presented with a themed badge to keep and collect. Suitable for ages 5-11, £15.

See the website for more details and timings 15 Dec CHRISTMAS MAGIC at River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk Get into the festive spirit at the museum this Christmas. Discover seasonal traditions from the past and join in the carol singing. Come in your best Christmas jumper to win a prize! Free with admission.

16 Dec HENLEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CHILDREN’S CONCERT at Christ Church Centre, Henley, RG9 1AG, www.henleysymphonyorchestra.co.uk The Christmas Concerts are held in the Christ Church Centre in Henley Symphony Orchestra’s home town of Henley, and include well-loved classical pieces of all ages. The short afternoon concert, with a compere, is a perfect way of introducing young children to a live orchestra and is particularly suitable for children aged 2-6.

16 Dec FESTIVAL OF LIGHT LANTERN PROCESSION, Northbrook Street, Newbury The Newbury annual Lantern Procession is a stunning winter event that brings the whole community together to celebrate the festive season. Join in or just admire and soak up the atmosphere as the candle-lit procession travels along Northbrook Street to the Market Place.

Meet at the Methodist Church on Northbrook Street from 4pm to take part or 4.30pm to watch.

21 Dec MASTER BUILDERS CLUB – CHRISTMAS LEGO BUILDING WORKSHOP at Benson Youth Hall, Wallingford, OX10 6LX, www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk Do you love LEGO? Calling all young designers, engineers and inventors – Master Builders Club needs you! A two hour Christmas-themed workshop with LEGO building challenges. Master Builders Club workshops follow a different theme each session and after setting the scene with a short story, the Master Builders will complete a number of build challenges. Master Builders Club aims to inspire children to be original in their designs and share their ideas. At the end of the session, the Master Builders are presented with a themed badge to keep and collect. Suitable for ages 5-11, £15.

See the website for more details and timings.

21 Dec MAGICAL LIGHTS FAMILY EVENT at The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL), University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.merl.reading.ac.uk Explore the magic of light with craft activities and demonstrations, a festive light trail and mystery museum objects!

Suitable for families with children aged 311. £3 per participating child. Adults free.

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

22 Dec CHRISTMAS FAMILY RACEDAY at Ascot Racecourse, 0870 727 1234, www.ascot.co.uk Visits from Father Christmas and his reindeer, story-telling from Mrs Christmas, pony rides, huskies, a carol singing concert, festive cocktails, fine dining and free fairground rides. Children can attend and eat for free. Adult prices from £19.

22 Dec MASTER BUILDERS CLUB – CHRISTMAS LEGO BUILDING WORKSHOP at Storton Lodge, Icknield Road, Goring, RG8 0DL and Kidmore End War Memorial Hall, Reades Lane, Reading, RG4 9LL, www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk Do you love LEGO? Calling all young designers, engineers and inventors – Master Builders Club needs you! A two hour Christmas-themed workshop with LEGO building challenges. Master Builders Club workshops follow a different theme each session and after setting the scene with a short story, the Master Builders will complete a number of build challenges. Master Builders Club aims to inspire children to be original in their designs and share their ideas. At the end of the session, the Master Builders are presented with a themed badge to keep and collect. Suitable for ages 5-11, £15.

See the website for more details and timings.

28 Dec MASTER BUILDERS CLUB – CHRISTMAS LEGO BUILDING WORKSHOP at Woodcote Village Hall, Reading Road, Woodcote, Reading, RG8 0SD and Sacred Heart Parish Hall, Vicarage Road, Henley on Thames, RG9 1HT, www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk Do you love LEGO? Calling all young designers, engineers and inventors – Master Builders Club needs you! A two hour Christmas-themed workshop with LEGO building challenges. Master Builders Club workshops follow a different theme each session and after setting the scene with a short story, the Master Builders will complete a number of build challenges. Master Builders Club aims to inspire children to be original in their designs and share their ideas. At the end of the session, the Master Builders are presented with a themed badge to keep and collect. Suitable for ages 5-11, £15.

See the website for more details and timings.

BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKETS www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Up to 30 stallholders selling excellent nearly new baby and children’s items from birth to 6 years, and a small selection of unique businesses in the baby and children’s industry showcasing and selling their products under one roof.

10 Nov BURNHAM, Burnham Park Hall, SL1 7HR, 1pm-2.30pm 17 Nov BRACKNELL, Bracknell Leisure Centre (Main Sports Hall),RG12 9SE 2pm-3.30pm 18 Nov TILEHURST, Meadway Sports Centre, RG40 4BZ, 2pm-3.30pm 24 Nov FINCHAMPSTEAD, Finchampstead Baptist Church Centre, RG40 4ES, 2pm-3.30pm

Families Thames Valley West • 19

CHRISTMAS FAMILY SHOWS

It’s Panto season again and this year there are treats galore to be found in our local theatres. You can travel to magical worlds, meet the ugliest sister imaginable, boo the evil villains and laugh at the Dames! Take your pick from one of these fun-filled offerings: SOUTH HILL PARK Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk 30 Nov – 5 Jan DICK WHITTINGTON AND HIS CAT – A Feast Of Festive Fun This year’s pantomime at South Hill Park’s Wilde Theatre is rumoured to be their best panto yet. With a fresh new script by actress, director and playwright Joyce Branagh, a set designed by award-nominated designer Victoria Spearing, and a giant helping of timeless jokes and slapstick, this year’s inhouse production of Dick Whittington And His Cat is sure to be a big hit with audiences young and old.

The unique set design promises to be quite literally a ‘scene stealer’ as it presents each part of the pantomime as a storybook page. The giant pages unwrap this spectacular interpretation of the classic tale of a young man seeking his fame and fortune in the big city.

Regulars of the Wilde Theatre’s pantomime will be thrilled to see the return of Bracknell’s favourite Dame, Brad Clapson, as well as upcoming actors Faye Ellen, and Matthew Houston who starred in last year’s inhouse panto hit Beauty and the Beast. The surprise icing on the Christmas cake this year promises

to be actor Michael Ayiotis who takes the lead role of Dick Whittington. His performance as King Julien in South Hill Park’s Madagascar (2018) had audiences flocking back for more.

Pick up the hottest tickets in town before they disappear, some shows are already sold out.

Dick Whittington And His Cat runs Fri 30 Nov– Sat 5 Jan 2019. Tickets available online southhillpark.org.uk or at the Box Office on 01344 484123.

THE OAKWOOD CENTRE Headley Road, Woodley, Reading, RG5 4JZ, 07580 891 904, www.ticketsource.co.uk/berzerkproductions 12-16 Dec THE SNOW QUEEN Be spirited away by this new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fantastical coming-of-age adventure that inspired the hit Disney musical, Frozen. Join Gerda on a dangerous and whimsical quest to save her best friend Kai before he is trapped forever in the Snow Queen’s palace. Dare to enter a world where flowers sing, animals talk and riddles yearn to be solved. With an original pop-rock score, alluring ballads, live band, special effects and the enigmatic Snow Queen, you’ll soon see this is not your average bedtime story! Adults £13.75, Children £11.75

2018 with an even bigger, more spectacular and fun-filled festive treat, Dick Whittington.

Packed with hilarious routines, heaps of audience interaction, spectacular sets and a host of chart-toppers, this high-energy, exciting story about a young man seeking his fame and fortune among the bright lights of the big city promises to be the perfect Christmas treat for all the family. Adults £22, Children £16, Concessions £20, Family (2 Adults, 2 Children) £69.

NORDEN FARM CENTRE FOR THE ARTS Altwood Road, Maidenhead, 01628 788 997, www.nordenfarm.org 20 Nov-30 Dec THE FIR TREE by Tove Jansson From Tales in Moominvallley. The Moomin family was hibernating in the drawing room as they were wont to do. They had been sleeping for a few months already and were going to keep it up until Spring…now all at once a cold draught disturbed Moomintroll’s dreams. And someone was pulling at his quilt and shouting that he was tired and Christmas was coming.

Featuring live puppetry and music, The Fir Tree is an adventure set in the idyllic and peaceful Moominvalley. It’s a gloriously unselfish take on Christmas. Suitable for ages 3+. Adults £13.50, Under 16’s £11.50. Family & friends ticket (4 people) £46.00 THE ANVIL Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR, 01256 844 244, www.anvilarts.co.uk 13 Dec – 6 Jan SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Starring Dani Harner (CBBC’s Tracy Beaker) and Chris Pizzey (Basil Brush’s Mr Stephen), join the Wicked Queen, Handsome Prince, seven mischievous dwarfs and of course Snow White herself for festive fun, packed full of glittering costumes, sumptuous sets, catchy songs and heaps of audience participation. Mirror Mirror on the Wall, this is the must-see panto of them all! Tickets £28, £27, £24, £19. Relaxed performance 2nd Jan at 2pm.

THE HEXAGON Queens Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA, 0118 960 6060, www.readingarts.com 8 Dec – 6 Jan ALADDIN Children’s TV star Justin Fletcher returns to play Aladdin at The Hexagon and he is once again teaming up with award-winning panto dame Paul Morse as Widow Twankey. Tickets from £25.50.

KENTON THEATRE New Street, Henley, RG9 2BP, 01491 575 698, www.kentontheatre.co.uk 15-29 Dec DICK WHITTINGTON Immersion Theatre return to the Kenton for 20 • Henley • Reading • Wokingham • Bracknell • Newbury • West Berkshire

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This Year’s Must-Have Christmas Toy Guide Every year, desperate parents exhaust themselves searching high and low for the most wanted toys on their child’s Christmas list.

To avoid last minute panic and possible disappointment, the key is to do your research and start shopping early.

To help you get prepared, we’ve put together a guide to Families top ten favourite Christmas toys for 2018. By Claire Winter Dino Fingerling (£16.99) www.argos.co.uk Age: 6+ This year WowWee Toys' popular Fingerlings are all about dinosaurs (or mythical unicorns, if you fancy something a little less fierce). The dinos respond to motion and sound and are bound to be a massive hit.

Densters (£19.99) www.firebox.com Age: 3+ All children love building a den! This great kit allows kids to set up their own hideaway in minutes. The set contains flexible toy monsters so you can create a magical den from everyday household items. It’s a great way to get your kids off a gadget!

LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Set (£89.99) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 9-15 Lego and Harry Potter in the same box, what’s not to love? If you've got a wizard-mad child at home, this 878 piece set will allow them to recreate the magic of Hogwarts. This lovely set has lots of detail that will give Harry Potter fans hours of fun.

Ani-Mate Mini Movie Maker Kit (£14.99) www.findmeagift.co.uk Age: 8+ Create quirky little movies with your own phone and this ingenious Mini Movie Maker Kit. It includes modelling clay, modelling tools and googly eyes to make your own kooky characters, and backdrops so kids can create their own film. This is a great present or stocking filler for a budding animator or storyteller.

Chow Crown Game (£24.99) www.argos.co.uk Age: 5+ A silly game for the whole family. The hat plays music, and while the beats are going, the crown spins round, and the wearer has to eat as many of the food items attached to the forks as possible.

A game that’s most fun when hunger looms, you are in charge of loading the food items on to the forks. You can choose tasty treats like marshmallows and strawberries or items that might not be so palatable! Great fun for parties and sleepovers too.

Pie Face Cannon (£26.99) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 5+ Pie Face continues to make the Christmas list year after year, and 2018 looks to be no different. This year you can buy a Pie Face Cannon. The cannon fires a pie every time, and it’s up to the contestant to use the red hand to stop getting “pied”. A great game to play after Christmas dinner!

Pies away!

The Poopsie Unicorn Surprise, £49.99 www.amazon.co.uk Age: 3+ Mums and dads across the country will be delighted to find this defecating unicorn on Christmas lists! The Poopsie Unicorn Surprise is a ‘cute’ toy that poops out glittery slime when you feed it special unicorn food. While I can hear parents visibly groaning, this is sure to be a hit with unicorn-lovers everywhere. Plus if you are worried about getting unicorn glitter poo all over your carpet on Christmas day, never fear, the toy comes with its own potty!

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VTech Kiddizoom Smart Watch (£44.99) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 4+ This cool watch features a camera for photo and video taking, 3D style digital and analogue clock faces and eight great games. It also has a motion sensor for a pedometer so they can measure their steps. The watch also has a calculator, calendar, alarm, stopwatch and voice recorder. Plus the option to download more apps and games!

Gravitrax (£48.29) www.amazon.co.uk Age: 8+ A cool game that encourages kids to boost their STEM skills. Use your imagination to build superb tracks and set the Gravity Spheres rolling! The game combines physics, architecture, and engineering, to engage and improve young minds. You can also buy additional packs to extend the system. A great buy for kids that love building, marble runs and Lego.

My Rebounder Mini Rebounding Trampoline, £89.99 www.myrebounder.co.uk Age 4+ Classic fun, these rebounders (small trampolines) will keep kids active all year round and can be used inside and out. They help improve strength, balance, co-ordination and general fitness. They can also be folded, so they won’t take up too much room.

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

Families Thames Valley West • 21

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

Developmental Classes (See also our Music & Movement section) Master Builders Club – LEGO workshops for children. Weekend and school holiday workshops, birthday parties and primary school events are a LEGO lover’s paradise, designed to provide children with an exciting and captivating experience.

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

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

Gym, Sport and Swimming Bulmershe Gymnastics Club – based at a purpose built gym in Woodley, run gymnastics classes for all ages including Leap Frogs for walkers to 5 years lead by qualified coaches. www.bulmershegymnastics.co.uk Baby Splash – Swimming lessons for babies, toddlers and children from birth to 6 years. It doesn’t matter at what age your little ones join or whether they are beginners or advanced – they’ll be made to feel welcome in the water. Fully trained and experienced teachers. Classes across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Surrey. 0118 996 8958, info@baby-splash.co.uk, www.baby-splash.co.uk GR Swimming Schools – children’s swimming lessons from 3yrs in Newbury, Thatcham, Woodcote and Pangbourne. Beginners, improvers and club level swimmers. Also holiday crash courses in swimming, diving and snorkelling. Structured lessons, ASA Award Scheme. 01635 201 410, www.swimlessons.co.uk Aquababies/Kiddies Bagshot, Surrey and Dorking – one of the UK’s leading children’s swimming schools. They run lessons for children of all ages, including babies from as young as 8 weeks old, that are based on progressive exercises relating to the child’s stage of physical and social development, whilst having fun. 20% off relaunch offer for newcomers. 07766 242572, info.surrey@aquababiesglobal.com

Arts and Crafts Artspiration School of Drawing and Painting: Offering fun, imaginative and instructional lessons in drawing and painting to school-aged children in Maidenhead, Wokingham and Reading. Artspiration will inspire, motivate, guide and give your budding artists the skills required to express themselves better visually. 01628 634 418, www.artspiration.co.uk Taylor Tug’s Under 5’s Club – creative activity sessions for parents to enjoy with their children. Led by a trained teacher, sessions include craft, stories and song. Most Wednesdays in term time at The River and Rowing Museum, Henley, 01491 514 605, www.rrm.co.uk

Music and Movement Monkey Music – fun music classes from 3months-4yrs with action songs and rhymes, music and movement, percussion instruments and musical games. Classes in Newbury, Thatcham, Mortimer, Henley and Upper Basildon. 01635 860 959, www.monkeymusic.co.uk diddi dance - funky pre-school dance classes for girls and boys. Award winning, high energy sessions explore 16 different styles set to original, age-appropriate music.

Classes improve gross motor skills, rhythm, coordination, confidence, creativity and social skills with dancing games, fun exercises, action songs and a host of

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

props. Lessons are aligned to the EYFS and are structured yet relaxed. Nursery workshops and parties too! Free trial available. Classes run every day throughout Reading & Wokingham. Call Andrea on 07719 87 87 89, or email andrea.bickford@diddidance.com Musical Bumps – outstanding music classes for babies, toddlers and pre-school children, which follow the EYFS principle of holistic learning through play. Classes also incorporate the Kodaly principles of music teaching which have recently made headlines for their positive impact on school and pupil performance. Classes in Caversham, Emmer Green and Henley. 07813 319 4040, vicki.joyce@musicalbumps.com, www.musicalbumps.com BilinguaSing – award winning Spanish and French bilingual singing, music and movement classes for babies (from 1 month), toddlers and pre-school children.

BilinguaSing is a unique class for parents and little ones to learn Spanish or French together in a fun and engaging way. Familiar nursery rhymes and songs are learned in both English and Spanish or French and are accompanied by a variety of fun movements and lovely props. Classes suitable for complete beginners to native speakers. Wokingha, Reading and surrounding areas, including Saturday mornings. First taster class is FREE! Call Kate on 07810 751 645, kate@bilinguasing.com, www.bilinguasing.com Berkshire School of Music – offers musical instrument lessons and music theory lessons from the school in Caversham, Reading. Holiday and Weekend Music Workshops for ages 6-16. 07831 861 332, enquiries@berkshireschoolofmusic.co.uk, www.berkshireschoolofmusic.co.uk

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

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

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

Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try Berzerk Productions: LAMDA examination classes, unique Drama Factory workshops, musical theatre and production opportunities for 6-19 years in Tilehurst, Woodley, Spencers Wood, Caversham, Reading, Pangbourne and Woodcote. Trial class free. 07863 734 830, www.berzerkproductions.com CATA – The Commercial Arts Training Academy – aims to offer young people with a passion with performing arts the opportunity to gain vital training in specialised sectors of the performing arts industry, focusing on acting for TV & film, vocal coaching, songwriting and recording, dance training and artist development.

Classes are catered for ages 3-7 and 8-18 in Reading, with private coaching also available. Classes on Thursdays ages 3-7, 4-5pm, ages 8-18 5pm-7pm.

Holiday workshops also available. Call Kat on 07768 990 238 or email catacademyuk@gmail.com StageAbility after-school drama classes for kids who love to ACT! Pangbourne, Burghfield, Tilehurst, Earley and Wokingham. High-energy classes mean that students never get bored, can't wait to get to class and develop confidence, creativity and focus. Pay-As-YouGo option for infants. www.berkshire.stageability.co.uk, jackie@berkshire.stageability.co.uk M: 07721 565898, T: 0118 933 3791 JG Dance and Theatre College – beginner classes from 21/2 years in ballet, jazz, tap, limbering, drama and singing. Twice yearly theatre performances. Free trial session available. Classes held in Marlow, Bourne End, Twyford, Caversham, Woodley, Tilehurst, Henley and Basingstoke. 01491 572 000, www.jgdance.co.uk

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Clubs and Classes News

DIDDI DANCE COMES TO CALCOT AND SHINFIELD To keep pace with demand, diddi dance Reading & Wokingham is launching in two new locations this November. The high energy, pre-school dance classes will open in Calcot on Wednesday mornings and Shinfield on Friday afternoons.

“I launched my first class five years ago in Woodley and since then I’ve been really proud of the continued growth of diddi dance across the local area,” says Andrea Bickford, Owner of diddi dance Reading & Wokingham. “We now run a weekly programme of over 18 classes and sessions and have introduced hundreds of toddlers and their parents to the joy of dancing. It’s a real privilege to see our little diddi dancers transform over time from shy, unsteady toddlers to confident young children – happy to show off their fancy footwork at the front of the class!”

By exploring multiple dance styles, the funky sessions are the ideal way for girls and boys aged 1.5 - 5 years to burn off excess energy in a creative and educational environment. The structured, yet relaxed, classes have taught little ones and their parents funky moves and steps from styles as diverse as Hip Hop, Country, Disco, Flamenco, Hula and Disco so far this year; and now Ballroom is being featured!

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

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STEPPIN OUT STARS OF TOMORROW Long lasting friendships, confidence, motivation, co ordination and motor skills. These are just some of the qualities you can expect your child to gain from Steppin Out. Award winning and currently offering some outstanding opportunities for performing arts, Steppin Out continues to be one of the market leaders in Berkshire. Classes are taught in drama, dance, singing, Tap, street dance and musical theatre with a big annual show in a professional theatre.

With 17 children performing this Christmas in professional pantomime, 30 off to Disneyland in 2019 and several currently in west end shows Steppin Out really is the place to be.

For more information call Shelley on 07970 034488 or e Mail shelley@steppinoutstars.co.uk

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