Families Cheshire November/December 2022 Digital

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IN THIS ISSUE November/December 2022 Familiesonline.co.uk FREE Christmas Education What’s On Proudly supported by thegrangetheatre.com/pantomime 01606 539040 KD Theatre Productions in association with The GranGe Theatre present Cheshire
Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December2 Magazine APPLY HERE T&Cs apply Christmas gifts to give away! Tinted Lip Balm Kits Empowering Book Bundles Kids Grown ups Munchy Plate Hot Wheels Car Plate Kids Grown ups Nature Curious Activity Box Annual Subscription Confidence Booster Books Kids

We have everything you’ll need for a perfect family Christmas in this issue – find loads of things to do in What’s On! Also check out the best Advent Calendars on offer, gifts for teachers for under £10, green ideas and a green gift guide, DIY decorations for the kids to make and lots more. Plus if you fancy a festive UK family city break – which could double as a gift-buying opportunity – then investigate some of the cities that put on the best show in the lead up to the big day.

Meanwhile, life ticks on. If your child starts school in September 2023, it’s time to choose schools to put on your application and we have tips and advice for you.

Finally, in this issue, we have Christmas gifts and tonnes of Weebles to giveaway! Apply for these adorable wiggly, wobbly mini-toys at familiesmag. co.uk/go. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Get in touch

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 3 Welcome
Saving energy downloadable Education Chirstmas part 1 What’s On Eco-Christmas Teacher gifts Christmas recipes Christmas hacks Christmas decorations Christmas crackers In this issue 4 5 9 14 20 21 23 24 26 27 CONTENTS
Competition winners from our July/August issue Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list HERE This kind of Christmas comes but once in a lifetime. Whisk your family away to magical Lapland where you’ll meet Santa and his cheeky elves. Christmas 2022 and 2023 on sale now Visit SantasLapland.com A CHRISTMAS LIKE NO OTHER BOOK NOW

BE AN ENERGY VAMPIRE!

ENERGY SAVING

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December4 DOWNLOAD FOR YOUR KIDS HERE DON’T
Switch o the following electrical devices at the socket when you have finished using them: Lamp TelevisionComputer Games console Phone charger Some appliances should not be turned o . DON’T TURN OFF your fridge, freezer or boiler, for example. If you are unsure, ask an adult. www.planbee.com
IDEAS www.planbee.com Turn o the lights when you are not in the room and switch o unused devices at the socket. Don’t leave the water running when you are brushing your teeth or washing your hands. Instead of immediately putting the heating on, try wearing a jumper and thick socks first. Take a short shower instead of a bath - you’ll save water as well as the energy needed to heat it. Make a ‘no-cook’ meal once a week - create a dish that uses no energy to produce. Have a ‘no energy’ family night - read together, tell stories, play board games etc. Put these mini posters above any light switches in your classroom or home www.planbee.com DON’T WASTE ENERGY! Turn o the light when there is no one in the room. Turn o the light when there is no one in the room. BE ENERGY AWARE! Turn o the light when there is no one in the room. DON’T WASTE ENERGY! Turn o the light when there is no one in the room. BE ENERGY AWARE! Don’t be an energy VAMPIRE! Get your kids involved in saving energy this winter with this special downloadable kit from PlanBee. It will save you money and help the planet!

2022 Commonwealth gold medallist hockey player and former Stockport Grammar pupil, Holly Hunt, returned to SGS to inspire the next generation of hockey players.

Holly played hockey for SGS and was part of the team that won the Girls’ Under 18 National Schools’ Championships in 2015. This summer, Holly played for England in the Commonwealth Games, scoring the opening goal in the match against Australia. The win gave England their first Commonwealth Games hockey gold.

Holly led training sessions for the Senior First Team and the U13s at SGS, imparting tips for improving their skills and answering questions. She said: ‘It was amazing to go back to Stockport Grammar where I first learnt how to play hockey and see lots of familiar staff faces.’

HERE

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 5 EDUCATION
More information
SGS gold medallist inspires “Excellent” Highest Inspection Rating Tel: 0161 456 9000 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk FOUNDED IN 1487 STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL An independent school for children ages 3-18 years Assistance with fees available at 11+ and 16+ (means tested), academic and music scholarships SGS InspiresSGS Inspires Book online for open events Senior and Junior School day tours available Senior School Open Event Saturday 12th November Senior School Entrance Exam Wednesday 11th January 2023

Best board games for learning

It’s a great time to snuggle up inside with a board game. If you’re thinking of adding to your collection, here are some options that particularly enhance children’s learning.

Feed the Woozle

Fosters self-regulation in a fun & silly way. Ages 3-6. £19.99

Life on Earth memory and matching game Great for encouraging focussed attention. Ages 3+. £17.99

Spot it Junior!

Children learn to suppress their first impulse. Ages 4. £14.39

Zingo Bingo Develops language skills & self-regulation. Ages 4+. £17

Melissa and Doug

Suspend Junior Encourages planning, decision making & fine motor skills. Ages 4+. £21.99

Sequence for Kids

Involves taking turns, planning & prioritising. Enhances short term memory. Ages 4-7. £30.25

Carcassone

Develops planning, working memory, taking turns & prioritising. Ages 7+. £36.99.

Kingdomino

Develops spatial awareness, decision making, executive functioning & gameplay. Ages 8+. £22.35

Rat-a-tat Cat

Practises maths, memory skills, risk-taking, taking turns, counting & critical thinking. Age 6+. £12.49

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December6 EDUCATION

Choosing the right primary school

If your child turns four this academic year, they’ll be starting Reception next September and now’s the time to make their primary school applications. Exciting times!

Your child’s primary school and its community becomes a large part of your family’s life, so feeling happy about the choice is very important. Depending on where you live you might have just one, two or maybe three schools to apply to. Or there may be numerous schools if you live in a city. So how do you go about knowing which will be a good fit for you and your child?

The catchment area

School catchment area is a key admission criterion for schools. This is generally be based on the furthest distance that a pupil was admitted to the school the previous year but boundaries can be extended or shrink, according to the variables of each intake year. For example, one year there may be a larger cohort of siblings or looked-after children taking priority or it may be a year with a high birth rate, so the map alone does not guarantee your top choice.

You can check each school’s catchment area through your local authority to establish whether you’re likely to fall within it. Think carefully before aiming for a school for which

you’re not in the catchment area. You don’t want to waste one of your choices.

Practicalities are very important too. Is the location of the school convenient?

READ

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 7 EDUCATION
MORE Igniting her potential Register your daughter for our new transition programme - a series of fun and engaging Saturday sessions to make the move from primary to senior school a smooth process for everyone. The Saturday Series will ensure your daughter becomes familiar with Queen’s Senior School, makes friends and meets teachers. REGISTER ONLINE NOW: thequeensschool.co.uk/saturday-series New transition programme Starts this November SPACES LIMITED REGISTER NOW! FIRST EVENT Sat 12 Nov - 9.30am - 12pm EXPLORE THE WORLD for girls in Year 5 & 6 SS ad 87-130.indd 1 26/08/2022 11:53

Bursaries available at Abbey Gate College

Queen’s launches The Saturday Series

Offering modern facilities in a stunning location, Abbey Gate College is an independent school for pupils ages 4 to 18 years, located in twenty acres of beautiful grounds in the historic Saighton Grange near Chester and Aldford village.

Means-tested bursaries are available, enabling deserving children to benefit from an Abbey Gate College education. Contact the Admissions Team for further details.

The College is a unique, inspiring and memorable place to learn and grow, where the caring and committed teaching and support staff do everything they can to help all children fulfil their potential, try new things, take risks and be creative. It offers a safe and friendly school community, within which each child’s individual interests, passions and strengths are nurtured and developed.

More information HERE or EMAIL

The Queen’s School in Chester is delighted to launch a brand new two year transition programme for girls in Years 4, 5 and 6.

The Saturday Series will deliver fun and engaging sessions across the academic year with the aim of ensuring that those girls considering Queen’s School make the move from primary to senior school smoothly and happily.

The programme will ensure pupils become familiar with Queen’s Senior School well ahead of time, make friends and meet teachers so by the time they join Year 7 they have already spent plenty of time at the school and are feeling excited, secure and prepared for the next stage of their education.

Spaces limited so book early to avoid disappointment.

More information and booking HERE

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December8 EDUCATION

Classic pantomime at The Grange Theatre

The Snow Queen at The Storyhouse

From 10 December to 1 January, KD Theatre Productions brings the delightful pantomime, Sleeping Beauty to The Grange Theatre in Northwich this Christmas - guaranteed to enchant and delight children and adults alike.

Princess Aurora is so lovely she’s sure to win the hearts of both young and old! But, when the evil witch Carabosse causes her to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into an enchanted sleep, she cannot be awoken. Will Prince Lancelot be able to wake her?

With a dazzling and exciting blend of music, quality professional performers, stunning sets, lavish costumes and bags of comedy, The Grange Theatre is truly the home of family pantomime in Northwich this Christmas.

More information and booking HERE

This festive season, adventure to the mystical, frozen north at The Storyhouse in Chester!

Playing from 10 December to 15 January, The Snow Queen is an unforgettable tale that celebrates the power of family and friendship.

Join little Gerda on her epic journey through the seasons to save her best friend, Cei, from the icy clutches of The Snow Queen. On her way, she’ll meet pouting princes and tap-dancing reindeers in The Storyhouse’s most spectacular Christmas show ever, a classic for all ages.

Helpful in tricky times, The Storyhouse has made The Snow Queen its most affordable Christmas show ever. For many performances, all seats are £18 for members. Plus member discounts have been increased up to 20% for this Christmas only!

More information and booking HERE

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December10 CHRISTMAS
Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 11 CHRISTMAS Start your wiggly, wobbly Weeble collection! Get your FREE toy now!* Magazine APPLY HERE *while stocks last T&Cs apply FESTIVE FUN WORD SEARCH Join the Great Search for Santa and experience so many magical adventures with Santa's Lapland, can you help us find them all in this word search? You can experience all of this and more in Lapland, to find out more visit SantasLapland.com Santa, Reindeer, Snowflake, Elves, Husky, Snowmobile, Ice Fishing, Sleigh, Snow Hockey DOWNLOAD WORD SEARCH I U G Q I N Z X X F P J Y O U L N B T A X Q N L M B F C Q L X I C E F I S H I N G E D I V H N E A N Q S J B I J A W N A S U W S N O W F L A K E T G Z N N S T N D U Y F I A D F G X O V U K Z O E R F A L D B E C W E Z E Y O W H E G N W Z I Z H M S M G Z G M E I Z S Z M B O N L S A N T A O Q N K T B G C K E K T G C P M B K D A H R K T I Y E L V E S P I Y E L W E X G O Q U M Y A X Z L X E Z Y S H A K S A E F U S J E I R R O E H I H O C P B C K J H G

Sleeping Beauty at Buxton Opera House

Giant panto adventure with Brio

From Saturday 10 December to Sunday 1 January, families can enjoy the very best of panto as Sleeping Beauty takes to the stage at the Buxton Opera House.

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, Princess Beauty is about to celebrate her 18th birthday. The King has banned all spinning wheels from the kingdom but will this save the princess from the curse of the evil fairy?

Join a brilliant cast and the handsome Prince as they try to end Sleeping Beauty’s one-hundred-year slumber! Add in side-splitting comedy, colourful dance routines and a scary dragon and you’ve got all the essential ingredients for an unforgettable Christmas pantomime.

Tickets from £18.50.

More information and booking HERE or call 01298 72190.

Brio Entertainment is bringing back the magic with two fantastic family shows!

At Northwich Memorial Court between 5 and 31 December, families can catch Jack and the Beanstalk, whilst at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall, the amazing Beauty and the Beast takes over the stage between 16 and 24 December. With both shows boasting a super cast line-up, these pantomimes are guaranteed to be packed full of fun! Show times and tickets HERE or call 0333 666 3366.

Struggling to keep the little ones active? Grab a Take 5 pass. For just £15, juniors can choose five activities for as little as £3 each when you pay upfront, including swim, off-peak racquet sports, gym workouts (12+) and fitness classes (14+).

More information HERE or visit your local centre. T&Cs apply.

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December12 CHRISTMAS

Please

Fri 11 Nov-Fri 23 Dec

The Lanterns 2022, Chester Zoo

Indulge in spectacle and magic at Chester Zoo. Discover a Norwegian fairy-tale land, a Japanese inspired garden, an array of glowing animals and guess who? Father Christmas will be there, along with his reindeers and delicious festive treats to spread some Christmas cheer!

Thu 24 Nov 12 Days of Christmas Parade, Bridge Street, Chester It’s the season to be jolly…Chester city centre is hosting its 12 Days of Christmas parade, starting at Bridge Streetfull of spectacular music, lights and even snow!

Thu 24 Nov-Sat 24 Dec Walton Gardens Winter Light Trail, Higher Walton, Warrington Indulge yourself

What’s on

visit in case anything has changed.

and your family with wonder and delight this Christmas with an eye-catching, illuminated trail at Walton Gardens. Come and be part of Luminate Cheshire at Walton Gardens. Book in advance.

Fri 25 Nov-Sat 31 Dec Christmas at Delamere Forest, Northwich

Have a magical time this Christmas as you explore a captivating afterdark illuminated path through a festive forest. Traverse glittering tunnels of light and trees dressed up in jewel-like colour and much else besides. Trail entry time slots available.

Fri 25 Nov-Sun 1 Jan Christmas at the Magical Woodland at Blakemere Village A truly magical start to the Christmas celebrations for all the family. The

event takes place in over fifteen acres of woodland and incorporates cutting edge lighting and sound to bring a touch of wonder and magic.

Fri 26 Nov-Sat 24 Dec Christmas at the Ice Cream Farm, Tattenhall, Chester Get festive this Christmas at the Ice Cream Farm in Chester. From breakfast with Santa to making cookies with Mrs Claus or a visit to Santa grotto with his festive elves where each child will receive a very special gift.

Fri 2 Dec-Fri 23 Dec

BeWILDerwood

Cheshire

If you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise…. BeWILDerwood Cheshire is hosting its first festive event this season! With sparkly lights and a panto trail, discover these wonderfully wonky woods that

are transformed for Christmas. Featuring a mini pantomime. Tickets £15.50. Book in advance.

Sun 4 Dec Hallé Family Christmas Concert at The Bridgewater Hall Father Christmas has lost his map on a practice run of his delivery route! Thankfully the Hallé Family have found it but they need your help to return it to him ahead of the big day. With this all singing and dancing concert with a full symphony orchestra, can you help to save Christmas?

Thu 29 Dec-Fri 30 Dec

Twixmas at Gulliver’s World Twixmas

experiences are back this season. Enjoy brilliant rides, attractions, a North Pole Express experience and panto shows for all the family.

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December14 WHAT’S ON
check with the venue before you

What’s on Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

WHERE TO SEE SANTA

Thu 25 Nov-Sat 24 Dec Santa’s Enchanted Grotto, Chester’s Grosvenor Shopping Centre Immerse yourself in a Narnia-inspired experience to meet Santa and receive a Christmas gift.

Sun 27 Nov-Sat 24 Dec Brunch with Santa, Chester Cathedral Enjoy a very special Sunday brunch. £15 an adult, £10 per child, including that special gift from Santa.

Sat 3 Dec The Snowman™ Tour, Chester Cathedral The classic family-favourite The Snowman™ , accompanied by live orchestra. Alongside this, enjoy Shaun The Sheep – The Flight Before Christmas with live orchestra for the very first time!

Sun 4 Dec Santa Sunday Lunch, The Mere Resort Join Santa and his festive elves for a truly magical experience, featuring live entertainment, children’s face painting and a three-course ‘merry’ Sunday lunch, including, of course, a special gift from Santa.

Sun 4 Dec, 11 & 18 Dec Sunday Lunches with Santa, Inglewood Manor Inglewood Manor is bringing festive cheer this season with their Sunday lunches with Santa. £15 per child with a present for every child included. £29.95 per adult.

Sat 10 Dec- Sat 17 Dec Santa Special Cruise, Chester Boat All aboard! Set sail with Santa this Christmas on a family-friendly cruise. Children will have the chance to meet

Santa and the Chester Boat elves and enjoy an array of festive fun activities.

Sun 11-Sun 18 Dec Festive Afternoon Tea with Santa, The Mere Resort Tuck into a festive afternoon tea over the holiday season with Santa. Nothing quite says Christmas like sandwiches, scones, a range of festive themed sweet treats and a

special gift from the man himself.

Sat 24 Dec Santa Send-off, Gulliver’s World Give a final farewell to Santa on Christmas Eve as he prepares his journey across the globe. Don’t forget to enjoy the festive rides and attractions too!

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 15
Saturday 10 Dec 2022 – Sunday 1 Jan 2023 Buxton Opera House presents DIRECTOR Paul Kerryson Sponsored by
Call our friendly Box Office team on 01298 72190 or visit www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
Buxton’s favourite Dame James Holmes as Carabossy Matthew Jay Ryanas Jock
Tickets from £18.50 BOH Sleeping Families Cheshire 87mm x 130mm v1.indd 1 10/10/2022 10:21 WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON

What’s on

Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

GIFT & CRAFT FAIRS

Sat 12 & Sun 13 Nov Festive Winter Fair at Victoria Baths, Manchester’s Water Palace

The fair aims to spread festive cheer this season by showcasing the best makers from Manchester.

Fri 18 Nov-Wed 21 Dec Chester Christmas Market 10th Anniversary

A great opportunity to explore over seventy stalls surrounding the iconic sparkling tree in the heart of the city centre.

Fri 18 Nov-Wed 21 Dec Chester Christmas Market, Northgate Street, Chester Shop for Christmas and soak up some festive cheer. Open from Sun to Wed 10.30 am-6.30 pm and Thu, Fri, Sat 10.30am to 8pm.

Sat 3 Dec Christmas Craft and Flea Fair at Manchester Cathedral Showcasing the absolute best of the city’s local produce makers, street food and flea market stalls and offering a wide range of vintage and collectables. 10am-4pm. £2 entry. Under 12s are free.

Sat 3 Dec Parkgate & Neston Christmas Market at Moorside Lane, Parkgate With tempting treats and delightful Christmas gifts, this authentic artisan market has something for everyone.

THEATRE & PANTOS

Sun 20 Nov

The Naughty Fox at The Lowry, Salford Puppetry, music and lights - perfect for your little ones. From £9.50.

Mon 21-Tue 22 Nov Tales from Acorn Wood, Crewe Lyceum Theatre Favourite stories by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. 21 Nov 4pm. 22 Nov 10.30am, 1.30pm. Tickets £15 children, £17 adults, £12 schools & groups.

Wed 30 Nov & 1, 2, 3, 4 Dec The Demon Dentist, Crewe Lyceum Theatre An entertaining and exhilarating story by David Walliams. Mon 5-Sat 31 Dec Jack and the Beanstalk at Northwich Memorial Court, Cheshire Join celebrity headliners, Su Pollard and Mark Labbett, along with Northwich Legends, Ryan Greaves, Steve Moorewood and Georgie Jackson that is full of Fee Fi Fo Fun!

Wed 7 Dec-Sun 8 Jan

Room on the Broom at The Lowry, Salford Fly with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories funfilled adaptation of Room on the Broom.

Thu 8 Dec-Sun 8 Jan Cinderella at The Plaza, Stockport’s Super Cinema and Variety Theatre

You shall go to the ball! Christmas pantomime featuring Cheryl Ferguson, who starred in Eastenders and Phil Mealey known for his starring roles in Early Doors and The Royle Family.

Fri 9 Dec-Sun 15 Jan

The Snow Queen, Storyhouse Theatre, Chester Take your family on a mystical and magical adventure with The Snow Queen! Tickets from £18.

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December16

What’s on

Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

Sat 10 Dec-Sat 31 Dec

The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan at Opera House, Manchester Tick tock, tick tock. Don’t let time fly away, rather get your tickets for a magical adventure to Neverneverland to join Peter Pan and his gang.

Sat 10 Dec-Sun 1 Jan Sleeping Beauty at Buxton Opera House

Join the Prince on his quest to rescue the Princess and vanquish the Wicked Witch.

Sat 10 Dec-Sun 1 Jan Sleeping Beauty at The Grange Theatre, Northwich

With dazzling and exciting blend of music, quality professional performers, stunning sets, lavish costumes and bags of comedy.

Wed 14 Dec-Sun

8 Jan Claus The Musical at The Lowry, Salford

Based on the beloved children’s book The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, by L. Frank Baum, this brand-new musical is a heart-warming story for the whole family.

Fri 16-Wed 21 Dec Santa Saves Christmas, The Brindley Theatre Including Jack, Dasher the Reindeer and Pompom the Penguin in this musical interactive quest to help Santa save Christmas!

Fri 16-Sat 24 Dec Beauty and the Beast at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall Belle lives a quiet life in the Kingdom of Ooh La La but she yearns for adventure!

Stunning sets, colourful costumes,

trademark laugh out loud script full of song, dance, hilarious one-liners and some legendary slapstick sketches!

Fri 16 Dec-Sun 8 Jan Aladdin at Crewe Lyceum Theatre Full of laughs and fabulous musical numbers, Aladdin, stars Louie Spence as the Spirit of the Ring, Jamie Kenna (Coronation Street) as Abanazar, KieraNicole (Milkshake) as Jasmine and returning for his sixth year, Crewe’s treasured dame, Malcolm Lord as Widow Twankey!

Tue 20 Dec Horrible Histories, Horrible Christmas at The Bridgewater Hall Characters from the past come to life to join forces to save Christmas

in a horrible history hair-raising extravaganza for all ages.

Wed 21 Dec The Muppet Christmas

Carol at The Bridgewater Hall Join the muppets in this classic Charles Dickens tale of a Christmas Carol.

Thu 22 Dec-Sat 31 Dec

Little Penguin’s First Christmas at The Lowry, Salford From the successful company that brought Snowbabies and Aleen’a Garden, it’s filled with puppetry, original music and sensory delights to capture their imagination.

Don’t forget to say you saw these in Families Cheshire Magazine

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 17 WHAT’S ON

Top Advent Calendar Picks

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December18 CHRISTMAS
We give you the lowdown on some of our favourites for this Christmas season. Swizzels Sweet Factory Calendar Enjoy 24 days of sweetie favourites. £5. The Crazy Scientist Advent Calendar A unique advent calendar with 24 different experiments. £29.95 Usborne Advent Calendar Book Collection Beautifully illustrated storybook behind each window. £19.99 Magic Advent Calendar Learn 24 new magic tricks in December & give a magic show! £19.99 Wooden Advent Calendar A reusable traditional calendar with 24 magnetic ornaments. £9.99 RNLI Plasticine Advent Calendar Instructions & plasticine to make a festive model behind each window. £20 City Vehicles Advent Calendar Each door reveals a vehicle: police cars to double-decker buses. £25 Smiggle Advent Calendar 25 days of surprises! Includes mini notebook, highlighter & scented stationery. £20 Gourmet Popcorn Advent Calendar 24 daily packs of handmade gourmet popcorn with range of flavours. £30

Get greener this Christmas

Christmas trees

Don’t use artificial trees – they aren’t recyclable and will end up in landfill.

Hire a Christmas tree from a garden centre or plant nursery.

Buy a pot grown tree and plant it in the garden in January. Use it next year!

Recycle real trees. Check arrangements with your council.

Eco alternatives

Use reusable, fabric crackers. Wrap gifts with recycled paper or fabric.

Go for a real, fresh wreath made with seasonal, natural foliage.

Buy a reusable Advent Calendar. Fill with your own gifts.

Make your own decorations.

Pot grown tree care

Christmas dinner

Plan meals in advance, taking account of visitors, so you don’t buy more food than you need. Seal and freeze all the leftovers that you can.

Give unused food away to friends, family or neighbours. Eat less meat and try vegan versions of Christmas classics.

Christmas gifts

Consider second hand or refurbished items eg bikes, tech. Try giving experiences such as theatre tickets or days out instead of gifts.

Buy reusable items like refillable water bottles and beeswax wraps.

Buy consumables like food and toiletries as gifts.

Christmas leftovers

Learn the difference between potted trees and container grown trees, which ones have the best chance of survival and how to care for them.

Four of Jamie’s tasty leftover recipes including turkey stew with leek & smoky bacon biscuit dumplings, bubble & squeak, smoky veggie chilli & hodgepodge pie.

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 19 CHRISTMAS

Eco Christmas gift guide

Spread a bit of festive joy by being good to your family and the planet. These gifts for kids and adults

make everyone’s day without costing the earth.

Nature

Explore British wildlife with eco-packaged worksheets & nature prints. £20 per month.

Barekind

Bright and colourful stocking filler helps save the endangered animal on them! £7.50

Kabode Alphabet children’s bedding

Fun collection of 100% certified organic cotton bedding makes learning fun. £44.95

Play Kits

Sustainable & organic kits

Bake at Home

Home-delivered.

ready-made dough, cutter & recipe.

DIY lip tint or

balm

Design all-natural lip tints or cheek balms with gorgeous ingredients. Plastic-free. £19.99

Tartan

Made from at least 70% recycled wool plus preloved, recycled fibres.

Halo water bottle

Insulated, compact, lightweight, handbag & pocket-friendly. Hydration on the move.

£22

Cashmere fingerless gloves

Super-cosy, one-size, made from discarded

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December20
will
wool blanket
£32
gingerbread people kit
Delicious
£15
From
cheek
kit
subscription boxes
support pre-school brain development. From £80
Curious subscription boxes
bamboo socks
cashmere jumpers. £24 CHRISTMAS

Gifts for teachers for under a tenner

Realised the kids break up soon and you haven’t chosen something for them to give as a gift? Here are some ideas that won’t break the budget.

The Body Shop

‘Create

Fill the pouch with a selection of Body Shop goodies. £3

‘Epic things to teach’

Add photos and teacher’s name for personalisation. £4.99

Personalised

Apple-shaped bracelet with personalised message. £1.99

Terrific Teacher glasses case

Stylish gift for a teacher who wears glasses. £2.99

Jamie Oliver’s

Christmas pudding gift jar

Just buy the ingredients and the kids can make this themselves.

Milk chocolate trophy

Award your teacher with a chocolate trophy. £10.

One4all gift card

Can be used with 130+ brands in store and online. £10

Personalised resin coaster

Handmade resin teacher coaster with a name of your choice. £8.99

Personalised mug

Remind them they’re the best teacher on the planet! £9.99

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 21 CHRISTMAS
DIY
your Own’ gift pouch
personalised notebook
‘Thank you’ bracelet

Festive family city breaks

Our friends at Tested by Tots have identified some of the best family friendly cities to explore with your little ones this Christmas.

Durham

A beautiful, picturesque city & a great Christmas Festival from 2-4 December.

Winchester Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market is inspired by German Christmas markets further afield.

Norwich

Home to the most anticipated Christmas attraction in the UK - The Tunnel of Light!

Nottingham Festive markets from retro style to a sparkling Winter Wonderland!

Exeter Ice rink, Winter Wonderland, carol concerts, pantomimes. Exeter truly embraces Christmas!

Kidderminster Santa Trains to Arley take families to see their favourite characters in pantomime.

Glasgow

Festivals, pantos and children’s classic concerts such as The Night Before Christmas.

Cardiff

Fantastic Christmas festival with incredible shows at Cardiff Castle.

Belfast

Light shows, displays, markets and a Georgian experience. This city goes big!

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December22 CHRISTMAS

Christmas treats to make with the kids

Christmas gingerbread people

Christmas pudding Malteser cake

Have some fun in the kitchen with a classic gingerbread recipe your kids will love to make. Decorate your people using dried fruits, nuts and coconut for a healthier treat that tastes fantastic. The kids will particularly enjoy making their little people truly personal.

This sneaky cake is a bit of a trickster! It looks like a Christmas pudding but is, in fact, a delicious chocolate cake covered in Maltesers. Kids will love tricking others with this cake and, of course, they will also love the taste of this chocolate extravaganza!

Christmas cookie houses

Gingerbread houses are a Christmas tradition but these little cookie houses are so much easier to assemble and just as fun.

Use different biscuits and decorative items to give each cookie house a unique, fun look. The kids can even make a small Christmas town of their own.

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 23 CHRISTMAS

Christmas hacks for parents

Keeping presents hidden

In the loft – assuming your child can’t access it or wouldn’t think to look there!

In the car boot – this is a winner if you can’t access it from the back seats.

Inside luggage – zip presents into a suitcase.

Another house – leaving with friends or family will thwart the most ardent snooper!

Laundry basket – kids are unlikely to go digging through dirty laundry so stash some wrapped presents at the bottom.

In the run up

Ignore the hype – don’t compare your family to every trend on social media.

Love your lists – getting things down on paper definitely helps you stay sane.

Delegate – don’t do everything. Ask for help and get everyone involved.

Drop high stress rituals –families thrive on traditions but choose the ones most important to you.

Stick to routines - your child will find it reassuring. Avoid back to back socialising and travel – try to arrange some visits after Christmas.

Choosing and caring for your Christmas tree

Measure the height of your room before you choose a tree.

Nordmann Fir is a great choice as it does not drop its glossy dark needles and has a good shape.

Place in a stand with a well of water in the base.

Check daily and top up the water when the level drops.

Choose a cool place, away from radiators and fires.

Don’t let your tree dry out.

On the day

Not all at once - spread out gift-opening to keep Christmas morning manageable.

Turn present-giving into a game – everyone takes turns and must try to guess what it is before opening.

Avoid present chaos - wrap everyone’s Christmas gifts in different paper so you can recognise them.

Prioritise presence over presents – remember Christmas is really about time with your family.

Avoid overload – kids can get over stimulated so give them time to play quietly or rest.

Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December24 CHRISTMAS

More Christmas gift ideas

Hot Wheels Car Plate by Munchy Play

My Self-Esteem Journal & My Worry Journal

Rev-up mealtimes with the official Hot Wheels™ Car Plate. Race cars around the Hot Wheels™ track, pull stunts and dodge obstacles past the finish line. Designed by a mum, the colourful blue and orange plate makes a fun gift for kids (ages 3+), fussy eaters, and car fans. £16.50.

Girls Support Girls

Girls Support Girls is a small but mighty book bursting with kick-ass quotes, uplifting statements and awesome affirmations – a celebration of female strength and solidarity. There’s nothing more powerful than a strong woman –except for two strong women supporting each other! £6.99.

Two new activity journals inspired by the numberone best-selling children’s mental health title You’re a Star by Poppy O’Neill. Books contain cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques to help children aged 7+ grow in confidence. £7.99 each.

The Book for Badass Women

The Book for Badass Women is a sassy little book filled with empowering tips and quotes. What is a badass woman? Whatever the heck she wants to be!

Dive head first into advice on strengthening your selfconfidence, going after your goals and empowering other women. £9.99

Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 25 CHRISTMAS
Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December26 CHRISTMAS Have yourself a crafty Christmas There are so many great decorations and accessories that the kids can make – so make the most of the opportunity Christmas offers for them to really get creative with these videos and instructions! Paper snowman Christmas fairy Easy paper baubles DIY origami Christmas tree CBeebies snowman socks Victorian kissing ball Easy DIY crackers Easy paper Christmas wreath Simple gingerbread house
Familiesonline.co.uk November/December 27 CHRISTMAS Let’s go crackers! Do you fling a box of whatever’s closest to hand at the supermarket in your trolley with the mental note to research other options next year? If so, this is for you! Bowling crackers 6 bowling pins, a ball and bowling alley. £12.54 Xylophone musical crackers Hat, snap, joke & xylophone piece. £30 Bingo crackers Family friendly bingo game, paper hat & joke. £29 Who or what am I game crackers Game cards, headbands & winners crown. £14.99 Giant popcorn cracker Giant cracker & 6 salted caramel popcorn bags, hats and jokes. £16 Racing pigs in blankets crackers Joke, snap, hat & pullback racing pig + racetrack. £19.99 Nutcracker crackers Joke, hat, snap & handpainted tree decoration. £19.99 Make Your Own crackers DIY colour in cracker kit. £14.50 Recycled origami crackers Everything needed to make an origami shape. £17
Familiesonline.co.ukNovember/December28 Start your wiggly, wobbly Weeble collection! Get your FREE toy now!* Magazine APPLY HERE *while stocks last T&Cs apply GIVEAWAYS APPLY HERE Empowering Book Bundles *while stocks last Styles may vary T&Cs applyMagazine APPLY HERE T&Cs apply Free gifts! Tinted Lip Balm Kits For you Free gifts! Nature Curious Activity Box Annual Subscription stocks last Styles may vary T&Cs applyMagazine APPLY HERE T&Cs apply For kids Munchy Plate Hot Wheels Car Plate Confidence Booster Book Bundles

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