IN THIS ISSUE Festive What’s On Guide Where to See Santa When to Give Your Child a Smartphone Party Themes Your Kids Will Love
RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and 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 Vicki King 07501 433 922
Issue 9 November/December 2019
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© Families Dorset Magazine November/December 2019. Families Dorset 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 Dorset are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Dorset. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Dorset, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
Editor’s Welcome This festive issue has your Christmas all wrapped up, from where to see Santa to all the best pantomimes and family things to enjoy during the festive season. As it’s the season for celebration, we’ve got plenty of great children’s party ideas to inspire you too! If you have something you’d like to share with our readers – whether news, events or promote your business - please do get in touch. And for more up-to-date news, competitions and more, don’t forget to like us on Facebook!
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Education, Early Years, Clubs & Classes, Health & Wellbeing, New Year, New You! and more Distribution: Throughout Dorset including Bournemouth, Blandford Forum, Broadstone, Bridport, Christchurch, Dorchester, Ferndown, New Milton, Poole, Ringwood, Swanage, Verwood, Wareham, Wimborne and more.
Christmas Holiday Fun at The 115 Club Are the school holidays a challenge in finding suitable clubs for your children? Help is at hand at the Bournemouth-based 115 Holiday Club. The club provides fun, age-appropriate programmes for under 8’s, over 8’s and 11+ specially designed to meet your child’s play expectations, with free breakfast available.
Last but not least, a huge thanks to everyone who has featured in Families Dorset this year and to our wonderful schools, nurseries, children’s centres and leisure venues and others for circulating our magazines.
The 11+ Group offers a low-key supervision environment, giving young people a say in selecting fun activities and special outings such as bowling, mini golf, cinema, skate park or crabbing, to help them increase their confidence, independence and social skills. The age groups come together for free play, lunch and parties.
Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and New Year!
Book your Christmas Holiday place now at www.115club.co.uk
Editor
Christmas Holiday Club Let the Fun Begin! 2-3 January From 8am – 5.45pm Moordown St Johns School, Bournemouth BH9 2SA
Our magazines are produced from well-managed forests and/or recycled materials.
Inspiring & Engaging Holiday Clubs for Children Young & Old, Designed with Your Child in Mind
Fun Activities & Day Trips for Under 8s, Over 8s & 11 Plus | From £24
Book now! 115club.co.uk
THIS NOVEM BER
ENTRY MILITARFOR Y FAMILIE & S
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s& w s Ne iew V Royal Mail Letter to Santa For children to receive a FREE letter from Santa via the Royal Mail children must post their letter to Santa by Friday 6 December. Envelopes must have either a first or second class stamp and be addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. The letter must include your child’s full name and address. www.royalmail.com/christmas/ letters-to-santa
NSPCC Santa Letter
Letter from Santa All children love to receive a letter addressed to them in the post, but what could be more special than a letter from Father Christmas? Here are two ways of making this happen.
Children can also receive a personalised reply from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a minimum £5 donation to the charity. The letter is ordered online and must be placed by 9 December. letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk/ letter-from-santa
Step Up for Safe Streets Every 20 minutes, someone is killed or seriously injured on a British road, yet each of these tragedies is preventable. UK Road Safety Week 2019, which takes place between 18 and 24 November, will encourage road users to ‘step up’ and play a part in the creation of a safe and healthy future on our roads. This year, the annual event aims to encourage everyone to Step Up for Safe Streets and learn about, shout about and celebrate the amazing design-led solutions that can help end suffering on our roads. The focus is on how design can stop human error from causing death or serious injury on the roads, can encourage walking and cycling, and can make sure that the air is clean. For more information and to get your FREE Action Pack, visit www.roadsafetyweek.org
This enables parents, with children in Reception to Year 6, to give consent on any device including a smart phone, for their child to be vaccinated and paper consent forms will no longer be sent home. This will enable the service to send you reminders and inform you by email once your child has been vaccinated.
Keep Kids on the Sunny Side with Gardening There has been an alarming increase in mental health issues among the young, with referrals to children’s mental health services in England increasing by 26% over the past five years. Gardening is now seen as an ideal way to mitigate the increase in mental health issues among schoolchildren, and the benefits to mental wellbeing are now widely known. The Duchess of Cambridge’s Back to Nature garden at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show highlighted how time spent in natural environments can build the foundations for positive mental wellbeing that lasts through childhood and over a lifetime. Groves Nurseries in Bridport are running a number of projects with local schools to encourage children to take up gardening. These include a Little Daffodils campaign to get children planting bulbs, with bulbs delivered to local primary schools including St Mary’s Primary and Mountjoy School in Beaminster.
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Changes to Child Immunisation Consent The way you give consent for your child to receive vaccinations is changing from a paper based consent form to a digital consent process for the 2019/20 academic year across Dorset.
For those that do not have access to the internet, a service will be available for the consent form to be completed over the telephone. Dorset HealthCare provides immunisations to children in Dorset on behalf of NHS England. They provide a fully accessible service to all school aged children whether educated at school or at home, offering them in a timely manner and a convenient location. For further information visit www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/schoolageimms
Banish The Brown Envelope! Not that we have anything against stationery per se but it’s time to revolutionise group gift collecting. Ever been in charge of organising the teacher’s leaving gift and halfway through the process you’ve lost track of who you’ve accosted in the playground? Have you ever organised a baby shower, hen do or, dare we say it, weekend away without kids (yay!) but had a headache getting everyone’s money together or deciding on what gift or experience to spend it all on?
money from different contributors easily through a simple online platform and then the lucky recipient can choose to spend their “pot” on one of the many exciting gifts and experiences available, or simply have the balance transferred to a bank account or gift card. Why not start your first pot today at www.collectionpot.co.uk
Group gifting should be fun and hassle free. That’s why with Collection Pot you can collect
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Party Themes Kids Will Love Parties can go with a swing if you choose a theme that your little ones can have fun with.
Tea Party
Jungle
Disney
Pirates
Superhero
Invitations: Make invitations festooned with flowers from wrapping paper and doilies.
Invitations: Make animal themed invitations; these can be as simple or artistic as you like.
Invitations: Use stickers of Disney characters and glitter.
Invitations: Create a treasure map with “X marks the party spot” and a pirate poem with plenty of “aaaaaahhhhhhhs!”
Invitations: On Superhero coloured invitations, write: “Dear SuperZac, please come to my Superhero party.”
Wear: Make accessories such as fascinators or hats and bow ties. Play: Old-fashioned party games like Pass the Parcel and Musical Chairs. Eat: Go for little sandwiches and dainty cakes. Look for cardboard tiered cake stands and use pretty cloths and bunting.
Wear: Come as your favourite animal or get your guests to bring an animal toy. Play: Have a Safari game in the garden where you hide pictures of animals which the kids have to spot, then play Sleeping Lions. Eat: Create a Bush Tucker Trial with the use of jungle themed plates and cups.
Wear: Offer accessories such as paper crowns and a sash made from coloured paper. Old net curtains make good veils. Play: Create a Disney piñata by covering a balloon with papier maché and turn it into a Mickey Mouse head.
Play: Fill a wooden chest with torn up newspaper and pop in some lucky dip gifts.
Eat: Serve drinks in plastic goblets for a castle theme and make cucumber sandwiches for Princes and Princesses.
Does thought of entertaining a large group of kids fill you with dread? You need Proper Little Parties! Suitable for children aged 3-8, with eight magical themes plus your festive favourites, our entertainers can keep up to 25 children amused for two hours with super fun games and activities, including face painting, balloon modelling and magic, all for just £99!
Play: Create a super hero obstacle course from ropes, pop-up tunnels, boxes and cushions, then have a quiz about superhero powers.
Eat: Give them chicken, vegetable or fish fingers and let them eat with their hands and make jelly with pomegranate seeds in it to look like sunken treasure.
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Proper Fun & Affordable Party Entertainment
Wear: Make simple masks for each child and a badge with their name and super power. You can also make capes from plastic tablecloths.
Wear: Dress as a pirate and make eye patches to wear.
Eat: Add cake toppers with “Boom!” “Pow!” and “Zap!” on them to cupcakes.
Article by By Sally J. Hall
Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).
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Parties Planned to Perfection For a unique birthday treat, why not host a themed party in your own home or garden?
So, for an amazing party with our fully-trained, DBS-checked, fabulous entertainers, contact us at www.properlittleparties.com or info@properlittleparties.com
From indoor sleepovers to outdoor minifestivals, Teeparty provide a bespoke party planning and styling service that turns your children’s dreams into reality.
“Best birthday party ever! All the kids and parents loved it! Most magical day, thank you SO much for making a little girl’s dreams come true!”
We work with you, help with ideas and deliver unforgettable experiences to make it a party to remember! Get in touch for your free party consultation or find out more at www.tee-party.co.uk
Proper Little Parties at Proper Little Prices Childrens entertainment for any occasion! We offer 8 different themes to make your party sparkle! All our parties include plenty of games, bubbles, magic, balloons & bunches of glitter and fun! ur 2 Horty Pa
Book your entertainer today
£99
www.properlittleparties.com
4 Families Dorset
teeparty sleepover planners
WE CREATE, YOU CELEBRATE
• Children’s Themed Sleepovers & Bespoke Parties • Delivered & Setup in Your Own Home or Garden • Imaginative Party Planning & Styling Service
www.tee-party.co.uk | 07773 201586 | hello@tee-party.co.uk
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Farmer Palmers Farm-tastic Parties We get it! You want to arrange a baaarilliant birthday party for your little VIP and their friends but you don’t want the stress (and mess) at home. Farmer Palmers has over 20 years’ experience in running farm-tastic children’s parties, so why not give yourself a break and let their Party Team take the strain? Plus, they’re now offering
a truly magical ‘Make-a-Bear’ experience too! Farmer Palmer’s ‘All Inclusive’ parties are easy to book and include park entrance, food, cake, party bags (with TY Teddy!) and excellent customer service, because party parents are important too! Find out more at farmerpalmers.co.uk/ birthday-parties
Purbeck Sports Centre Parties for All Tastes
How About a Climbing Party?
Take the hassle out of planning your child’s birthday party and let Purbeck Sports Centre do it for you.
It’s an opportunity to send the kids up the wall! A birthday party at Golden Gecko is a very special experience a chance for up to 20 kids from 5 years and above to challenge themselves against the wall. With 2 hours of fun starting at £150 for the first 10 people, our parties include one full hour of climbing, 2 instructors and the use of our party room.
Their friendly team here at the centre and the staff at Allstars Sports Bar and cafe will ensure your child has a birthday party to remember. Children will take part in your choice of activities, supervised by our qualified instructors followed by a delicious tea party buffet. Best of all, there is no clearing up for you!
During your hour of climbing you will have exclusive use of the Challenge Wall which has a wide variety of climbs to test all abilities. Then, to replenish energy levels, you can enjoy our delicious hot buffet at £4 per head or bring your own party food, sending them home tired and happy!
Choose any of these supervised activities: Playzone (ages 1 - 6), 5-A-Side Football (age 5+), Sporty Party (for tailor made activities for age 4+), Swimming (age 1+), Pop Dance, Cricket, Nerf and Pool Inflatables.
Book online ggclimbing.com or for any queries ring the centre on 01794 590 022 on weekdays from 10 - 2.
Book today on 01929 500 000.
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Raising Feminist Sons As the daughter of feminist parents I knew that my children, whatever gender, would be raised as feminists by myself and my husband. I hoped they would believe in, practise and advocate for equality for both sexes, and with our guidance, feel free to play, be and behave in a way that supported and empowered others, and women, in particular, who are living in an otherwise limiting and biased patriarchal society.
Don't Wrap Them in Cotton Wool
It's an ongoing challenge to raise feminist sons, particularly when your boy’s fellow classmates chastise him for liking non-traditional colours and not liking football. I've had to navigate some tricky waters. For me, it's about making mindful choices and exposing my kids to children and experiences that will be eye-opening for them.
Watch your Language
Here are my top 5 tips for raising feminist sons.
Don't Underestimate your Children
Start Early Don't be swayed by gender specific everything. Just because you have a boy or girl, doesn't mean anything/everything has to be blue/pink respectively - there are some beautifully vibrant non-gender specific clothes available. Try and opt for gender-free toys/books where possible and ones with strong female characters. As they get older, films like Horrible Histories the Movie, Moana and Brave teach children that they can do and be whoever they want and gender doesn't pose limitations on ambition and strength.
Oasis Fun Party Fun Celebrate your little one’s special day at Oasis Fun. With bowling, soft play, arcades, adventure golf, and a diner/bar, there’s plenty to do and enjoy. You can create a unique event that everyone will love and that provides hours of fun. Oasis Fun parties include an hour of activity, an hour in the party room and a buffet menu that includes sandwiches, pizza, chicken goujons and fruit salad, all for just £16 per child. Book your party today on 01202 311611 and let the fun begin.
Whatever your party occasion, Oasis Fun has something for everyone. Create a truly unique event for hours of party fun.
Get in touch today and let the fun begin!
6 Families Dorset
It's hard not to mollycoddle your kids. The world can sometimes be scary but I refuse to raise children who are fearful of life. I want them to take calculated risks. No doubt preventing girls from being as adventurous as boys leads to fewer risk-takers and ultimately leaders. Equally, don't pressurise boys to seek out adventure and take on riskier tasks or pursuits purely because of their gender. Be careful that you don't use archaic labels such as 'boys don't cry' or 'boys will be boys' to stop boys from showing emotion or to condone irresponsible behaviour. Question your own belief system and inherited, biased views. You and your partner have a huge impact on the way your children perceive the world and who they will become. They will mimic you and your values so be mindful of what you say and do. Share the load at home and explain to children about the different jobs and roles you perform. If you work, explain what that actually means. If you're a Stay at Home Mum, explain that you look after your children so that your partner can work but your job is just as important. Depending on your children's age, explain that some people choose to stay at home, others have the choice taken from them, as they are not supported by the workplace once they have children. Raising empathetic and informed children help the cause for equality. Don't underestimate your kids. Arrange Mixed Gender Parties Make a conscious effort from an early age to arrange mixed gender playdates (even if your children insist on all-boy or all-girl parties). Boys and girls understand and learn about each other from playing together. Normalise mixed gender friendships. Having children offers us the opportunity to re-evaluate our own inherited values and pre-conceived ideas so we can do and be better ourselves.
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Article by By Vicki Psarias
Vicki Psarias is a multi-award winning blogger and vlogger (www.honestmum.com) and is the author of bestselling book MUMBOSS The Honest Mum’s Guide to Surviving and Thriving At Work and at Home.
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For childredn age 6mths to 6yrs
Oasis Fun, Glen Fern Road, Bournemouth BH1 2LZ oasisfun.co.uk | info@oasisfun.co.uk | 01202 311611
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OCTOBER 26th-27th 10 - 3 AM
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HALLOWEEN GHOST HUNT
NOVEMBER th CHRISTMAS LIGHTS ILLUMINATION
30 4 -8 PM
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& SKATING IN THE SQUARE RETURNS
TO BREWERY SQUARE UNTIL JANUARY 2020
DECEMBER
55 - 7 th
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LATE NIGHT SHOPPING BEGINS EVERY THURSDAY UNTIL 7PM &
DORCHESTER CHRISTMAS CRACKER
DOG PARADE 72 - 3 CHRISTMAS GET YOUR FURRY FRIENDS DRESSED UP th
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IN SOMETHING FESTIVE THIS DECEMBER
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When to Give Your Child a Smartphone? It may be top of your child’s Christmas wish list this year, and it’s a question every parent will struggle with at some point: when should I get my child a smartphone? There’s no clear advice or research which provides a definitive age, but Families will endeavour to provide some useful guidance. Mobiles can be helpful to keep in touch with your child, and give you the peace of mind which comes with knowing they can reach you in an emergency. And, of course, children can also do all sorts of amazing things online using devices; the internet can be creative, fun and educational. But, by giving your child an internet-connected phone, you are handing them an incredibly powerful communication tool for which they may not be ready. Having unfettered access to the internet exposes children to many risks including cyberbullying, online grooming and inappropriate content. Many believe devices are also quickly changing the nature of childhood. Playing outdoors, spending time with friends, reading books and hanging out with family is being overtaken by hours of snap chatting, instagramming, and catching up on YouTube. According to internet safety experts the real question is not about the “right” age, but about whether your child is developmentally ready and whether you have laid the groundwork to prepare them for healthy and responsible device use. Carolyn Bunting, CEO of e-safety organisation Internet Matters said: "Every child is different and whether it be a sign of maturity or peace of mind; parents know intuitively what the right age is for their child to be given a smartphone."
8 Families Dorset
Adopt a Primate for Christmas Adopt a primate for Christmas at Monkey World and help support the rescue and rehabilitation of primates in need around the world. By Andrew Campbell
However, it’s vital that you take steps to ensure you child is able to navigate the internet safely before they are given a smartphone. These include: • Having open and honest conversations with your child about their online world. Finding out what they like doing and getting involved. • Setting boundaries for their internet use, which include where and when they can use their devices and for how long.
Monkey World’s youngest orang-utan, Hujan, was unable to be cared for at birth as his mother was ill, so came to them from Krefeld zoo in Germany. He’s now joined Tuan’s orangutan group, where he has the doting care of adult female RoRo, showing him the ropes… climbing frames and cargo nets! Adopt Hujan for just £25 a year for a child, and you will receive an Annual Pass to the park, a certificate and photo of your adopted primate and three newsletters to keep you up-to-date with everything happening at Monkey World!
• Setting up parental controls on your home broadband as well their devices. Using a child-friendly search engine and setting their user account to only follow sites which you've deemed safe. • Checking age-limits on games, websites and apps, especially ones that have a social media element. • Checking that online accounts are password protected and ensuring that your children are not putting out personal information online. If they have a social media profile ensure they are only accepting requests from friends and request that you or someone you both trust follows them to keep abreast of their online activity. In considering the move to a smartphone for your child it may help to consider the following options: • I f you believe your child needs to be able to get in touch with you, Ofcom advises using a basic handset. These are still readily available.
Real Christmas Tree Shop
• I f you are keen to keep your child’s internet access contained to the supervised home environment, then tablet-usage can be easier to monitor.
Trees are at the centre of everything Forestry England does and of course, as trees are the centrepiece of Christmas, they have a variety of trees for you to choose the one that’s perfect for you. Pick yours anytime between 29 November and 18 December, from 10am to 4.30pm.
• I f you think your kids are ready for their own smartphone, pick up a child-friendly model. For example, devices like the monqi allow parents to set limits on data, calls, screen time and disapprove a game or app, all remotely via a parental app.
There’s so much more at Moors Valley Country Park than selling Christmas trees. It’s a great time of year to get together with family and friends for a festive walk, just wrap up warm, pull on your wellies and explore the beautiful forests all around us.
For more reviews of child friendly smart phones visit www.internetmatters.org and for information on internet safety for children visit www.net-aware.org.uk
For more information visit: forestryengland.uk/moors-valleycountry-park-and-forest
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Christmas Festivities in Poole With so many fantastic events happening locally over the festive season, here’s our top selection of things you don’t want to miss!
Dick Whittington Rides into Wimborne Following the huge success of last year’s record breaking production of Cinderella, Made-to-Measure Productions are returning to Wimborne’s Tivoli Theatre this Christmas with a hilarious production of Dick Whittington!
The Christmas Lights Switch-On in Poole marks the beginning of the festive season and a truly magical programme of events hosted by Poole BID. The switch-on happens on 30th November with the stars of pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk joining the Mayor of Poole for the event. This is followed by the Santa Parade on the 1st December with Santa arriving on the Quay at 9.30am, leaving on a boat for a tour of the bay then returning to ride his sleigh from the Quay to Falkland Square. Santa on the Quay on the 8th December will see Santa spend the day on the Quay with many more children’s activities including a Grotto and a giant snow globe. To complete the festive fun we have a Christmas Singalong around the tree on the 14th December and family movies on the 21st December with beanbags and patio heaters. For more information visit www.poolebid.com
The rags-to-riches story tells the tale of a boy from Wimborne who travels all the way to London to make his fortune, believing that the streets there are paved with gold! Last year’s pantomime was described as the ‘Best in the local area!’ so don’t miss it – you won’t be disappointed! Tickets available now from the Box Office: Adults £16.50 and children under 16 £13.
Cinderella at the Weymouth Pavilion Christmas Time at Brewery Square Dorchester’s Brewery Square kicks off the festive season in style on 30 November with a host of live music, performances and entertainment from 4–8pm, as well as the spectacular lights illumination and the return of Skating in the Square until January.
Follow our heroine, the beautiful Cinderella, on a mission to make her dreams come true. But not everything goes quite to plan as her wicked Ugly Stepsisters have some tricks up their sleeves to prevent poor Cinderella from getting her ‘happy ever after’! No need to fear though, her hilarious best friend Buttons is on hand to cheer her up and her Fairy Godmother will ensure that she gets to the Ball in style, in the most spectacular transformation sequence ever to grace the Pavilion stage! From 14 December to 4 January. Call 01305 783225 or visit weymouthpavilion.com
Dorchester Christmas Cracker on 5 December marks the start of late night shopping on Thursdays until Christmas, with 30% off skating for one night only and special guests switch on the town festive lights. On 12 December, it’s your chance to write letters to Father Christmas while you listen to Christmas carols and enjoy late night shopping and mulled wine. Bring along your furry friends to join in the Square’s first ever Christmas Dog Parade on 7 December from 2–3pm. Get your pooch dressed up in something festive - from Rudolph to Christmas puddings, we want to see them all! Prizes will be up for grabs for the best-dressed waggy-tailed friend! Father Christmas will be visiting on 14 December, so come and watch the man himself on his sleigh as he does his rounds, with photo opportunities and gifts for children will also be available from 12pm–2pm. Christmas festivities round off on 19 December, as Brewery Square presents The Snowman double bill on the Screen On The Square from 6pm–8pm. ‘Yule’ be a fool to miss out!
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Families Dorset 9
It’s a Christmas Spectacular
Set Sail With Santa
Returning for its eighth fabulous year of family entertainment, The Glad Rag Production Company is delighted to bring a brand new Christmas Spectacular to the Regent Centre stage. Bursting with festive delights, this is a not-to-be-missed magical Christmas treat for the whole family to enjoy.
Santa’s taking a break from all of his hard work in the North Pole to hop on board City Cruise’s harbour cruise around Poole. With a free glass of mulled wine and a mince pie for the adults, and a refreshment and gingerbread man for the kids, you’ll get into the festive spirit!
Audiences will be treated to dazzling costumes from West End costumier Sue Simmerling and sparkling production numbers brought together by a heart-warming festive story, making this production the best winter warmer in town. Performances from 18th – 24th December, with additional matinees from 21st December, so book your tickets now at regentcentre.co.uk
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BOOK ADVERTISE YOUR NOW BUSINESS TO OUR 40,000+ READERS? Call 07518 514012 or email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
There’s live onboard entertainment from Dr. Balloon Man, before the children meet Santa himself and receive a very special gift. It’s the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit with all the family. Sailing between 30th November and 24th December. Visit www.citycruisespoole.com for dates and sailing times.
SAIL WITH SANTA
ADULTS & CHILDREN
Sailing at 11am, 1pm, 3pm and a late £17PP sailing of 5pm on selected days between 30th Nov- 24th Dec 2019. Please see www.citycruisespoole.com for all sailing dates.
The Fun, Easy Way to See Santa
Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum, It’s Panto Fun For Everyone!
Looking for a truly magical experience for your little VIPs this Christmas? Want to avoid long queues and enjoy a full family day out? With free parking, a quality gift for every child and a ‘Farmer Christmas’ who knows how to get the grown-ups giggling too? Then the Farmer Palmer’s Experience is for you!
When Jack sells his beloved family cow for magic beans, his mother, the outrageous Dame Trott, is not best pleased! Little does she know that those beans hold the key to a thrilling adventure. As Jack climbs the beanstalk he discovers a land filled with riches beyond his wildest dreams ….there’s just one Giant problem.
Specifically designed for children aged 0-8 years, you’ll receive the warmest welcome, enjoy a full daily timetable of animal activities, delicious home cooking in the restaurant and a baaaarilliant day out! Father Christmas Tickets charged at £7 in addition to normal admission.
It’s been 15 years since the award-winning Highcliffe Charity Players performed ‘Jack in the Beanstalk’, so don’t miss this giant of a show which promises laughter, sparkle and excitement for the whole family to enjoy this January at The Regent Centre in Christchurch.
Visit www.farmerpalmers.co.uk for details.
10 Families Dorset familiesonline.co.uk
GREAT DAY OUT, FOR YEARS 0-8!
WARM WINTER WELCOME OPEN UNTIL 22 DEC
COME AND VISIT ‘FARMER CHRISTMAS’
REN’S CHILDR Y PA TG ES PACKAABLE AVAIL
www.farmerpalmers.co.uk
Wareham Road, Organford, Poole, Dorset BH16 6EU
Specta
THE GLAD RAG PRODUCTION COMPANY
D EC EMB E R 2019 PERFORMANCES
WED 18TH THU 19TH FRI 20TH SAT 21ST SUN 22ND MON 23RD TUE 24TH
7PM 7PM 7PM 2PM/7PM 2PM/7PM 2PM/7PM 2PM/7PM
BOX OFFICE: 01202 499199 WWW.CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR.INFO
“A WINNING COMBINATION OF STUNNING SINGERS, GLITZY DANCE ROUTINES AND SENSATIONAL COSTUMES AND SCENERY” BOURNEMOUTH ECHO
There’s something for the whole family this festive season at Upton Country Park. Festivities kick off with an Arts and Crafts weekend at Upton House on 23rd November with local choirs and plenty of Christmas gift ideas, for just £1.50 entry.
email. shop@farmerpalmers.co.uk
Christcmualsar
Festive Fun at Upton Country Park
CHRISTCHURCH
Your Christmas begins at... Moors Valley Country Park Pick your perfect Christmas tree with the help of our specialist tree team. FREE parking with every tree purchase.
On 1st & 8th December, you can make a Natural Wreath from the park’s foliage whilst enjoying a mulled wine and mince pie, for £35. Party evenings on 7th and 8th December include a 3-course dinner with DJ, dancing and a photo booth for just £45 per person, or you can enjoy a 2-course Christmas Luncheon on 19th December for £25 per person. For children, the Santa’s Woodland Grotto returns, opening on 7th December over weekends and school holidays until 5pm Christmas Eve. This year the reindeer are staying home but owls, donkeys and a few surprise guests will be making an appearance instead! For all event bookings visit uptoncountrypark.com/Christmas
s this Christmas u n i Jo at Upton Country Park UPTON HOUSE
UPTON HOUSE
FESTIVE ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR
WREATH MAKING WORKSHOPS
SAT 23RD & SUN 24TH NOVEMBER. 10AM - 4PM
SUN 1ST & SUN 8TH DECEMBER. 10AM or 2PM
£1.50 PER PERSON
COUNTRY PARK
Even better for 2019
£35 PER PERSON
UPTON HOUSE
SANTA’S WOODLAND GROT TO
CHRISTMAS PARTY EVENINGS
OPENS 7TH DECEMBER Weekends and school holidays
SAT 7TH & SAT 14TH DECEMBER
£4.99 - £14.99
£45 PER PERSON
Open between 29 Nov - 18 Dec 10am to 4.30pm. To find out about all our fantastic festive events visit: moorsvalley.co.uk/christmas
familiesonline.co.uk
uptoncountrypark.digitickets.co.uk uptoncountrypark@bcpcouncil.gov.uk | 01202 262753
Families Dorset 11
Festive 30 November
7 Dec - 5 Jan
Little Red Riding Hood
Aladdin
Greyfriars Centre, Ringwood BH24 1DW
Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth BH1 2BU
Forest Forge Theatre bring you a traditional dollop of storytelling with madcap humour, memorable songs and beautiful imagery. 2pm. Adult £8, under 16s £5 from Greyfriars Office.
Everything you’d want in a pantomime is here, including laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and of course - a flying carpet! Follow Aladdin, his brother Wishee Washee and his mother Widow Twankey, on a spectacular adventure. £20.75–£24.
30 Nov, 15 Dec Santa's Christmas Countdown Lighthouse Poole, Poole BH15 1UG Shelley Theatre, Bournemouth BH5 1LX The show where every child gets a present from Santa in a fun, festive, musical adventure to get Santa’s Christmas Countdown started. Bring your Christmas letter to post in Santa’s special post box! Age 2-7. 30 Nov at Lighthouse: 1.30pm, adult £12.25, child £9.50. 15 Dec at Shelley: 10.30am & 1.30pm, £10.50.
1 December Once Upon A Princess Christmas Special Barrington Centre, Ferndown BH22 9TH Kick start your festive fun with your favourite storybook Princesses and a selection of chart-topping Christmas hits and festive favourites. 10am, 1pm & 4pm. £12pp.
The Snow Queen Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch BH23 4LE A captivating mix of fantasy, fable and love triumphing over evil as a young girl searches for her best friend, who’s whisked away by the Snow Queen to her icy palace. 5pm. Adult £10, child £5, family £26, under 4s free.
12 Dec – 5 Jan
15 December
20 Dec - 5 Jan
The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness!
Dick Whittington
Corn Exchange, Dorchester DT1 1HF
A rags-to-riches story of a boy from Wimborne who travels to London to make his fortune, believing that the streets there are paved with gold! It’ll be up to Dick and his funny feline friend to save the day and overthrow the almighty villain, Queen Rat. 2pm & 6pm. Adult £16.50, child £13.
A celebration of all things Christmassy! An over-stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs, quizzes and comedy, with crazy characters, silly slapstick, tall tales and fantastic facts! 2pm & 4pm. Family £24.
18–24 December
Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne BH21 1LT
22 December
Jack & The Beanstalk
Christmas Spectacular
Family Christmas Show
Lighthouse Poole, Poole BH15 1UG
The Regent Centre, Christchurch BH23 1AS
Corn Exchange, Dorchester DT1 1HF
Writer-producer Peter Duncan plays his first ever panto Dame opposite CBBC’s Tracey Beaker star, Connor Byrne. Come and see this planet-saving pantomime packed with songs, laughter and great spectacle. From £20.25pp.
Bursting with festive delights, this is a magical Christmas treat for the whole family. You’ll be treated to dazzling costumes from a West End costumier and sparkling production numbers brought together by a heart-warming festive story, making this production the best winter warmer in town. Shows at 7pm with 2pm matinees from 21–24 Dec. Family £58.
Enjoy Mr Merlin & Okey Dokey the Dragon, Jamie Jigsaw, Krazy Kev and DJ Phil from Get Up & Groove in this family friendly festive show. 4–6pm. £5 from the Town Clerk’s Office.
14–24 December Best Ever Christmas Show Allendale Centre, Wimborne BH21 1AS Santa brings this fun-filled festive extravaganza to life! Don’t miss the sing-along, dance-along, clap-along and funniest ‘Best Ever Christmas Show’, plus free ice-cream for every child! Show times vary. Adult £13, child £9.50, family £39.
14 Dec – 4 Jan Cinderella Weymouth Pavilion, Weymouth DT4 8ED Join Cinderella on her mission to make her dreams come true as her wicked ugly stepsisters have plenty of tricks up their sleeves to prevent poor Cinderella from getting her ‘happy ever after'! Adult £17, conc £15, family £60. Also a special performance for people on the autistic spectrum, and with communication or learning difficulties at 10am, 28 Dec, and tickets £12.
19–21 December Alice in Wonderland Little Theatre, Bournemouth BH9 2QD Alice falls through a rabbit hole into a fantasy world, full of White Rabbits, Cheshire Cats, Playing Cards, March Hares and Mad Hatters. A magical family treat. 7.45pm. Adult £12, child £10.
20–21 December Hansel & Gretel Pavilion Dance South West, Bournemouth BH1 2BU This classic fairytale gets a dance makeover, where the two young heroes, lost in London, must outwit the adults to find their way back to their family in a show where kids are number one! Age 5+. Fri 1pm & 6pm, Sat 11am & 3pm. From £8.
18–25 January Jack and the Beanstalk The Regent Centre, Christchurch BH23 1AS Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum, it’s panto fun for everyone, in a show which promises laughter, sparkle and excitement. When Jack sells his beloved family cow for magic beans, his mother, the outrageous Dame Trott, is not best pleased! Little does she know that those beans hold the key to a thrilling adventure with one Giant problem! Show times vary. Adult £13.50 , child £11.50.
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12 Families Dorset familiesonline.co.uk
Santa? Where’s
Not very far at all... if you know where to look!
23 November
30 Nov, 14 Dec
Poole Quay, Poole BH15 1HJ
Christchurch Christmas Festival
Breakfast with Santa
Saxon Square, Christchurch BH23 1QA
Coach & Horses, Wimborne BH21 1QB
Festive fun for all the family with real reindeer in Saxon Square, Santa’s Parade, Christmas lights switch on, Santa’s Grotto and a chance to meet Santa himself. 10am–8pm. Free.
Come and enjoy a tasty festive family breakfast and meet Santa himself, with a free gift for the children and unlimited hot drinks for the grown-ups. 9–11am. Advance booking. Adult £6.99, child £5.
23 Nov – 24 Dec Polar Bear Adventure
Breakfast With Santa
Join the playful polar bears in Santa’s Winter Wonderland then meet Father Christmas in his cosy grotto. Santa’s real reindeer will be there too! Mon-Sat 8.30am–5.30pm, Thurs 9am–8pm, Sun 10.30am–4.30pm. Adult £1, child £12.95, baby (0-6 months ) £1.
Enjoy breakfast as a family with Santa, with fun activities and a gift from Santa himself. Age>12. Advance booking. From £6.99.
Stewarts Garden Centre, Wimborne, BH21 7DF A magical journey through Santa’s Winter Wonderland, encountering the playful penguins on your way to meet Santa in his grotto. Mon–Sat 8.30am–5.30pm, Thurs 8.30am–8pm, Sun 10.30am–4.30pm. Adult £1, child £12.95, baby (0-6 months) £1.
Santa's Christmas Farm & Festive Grotto Honeybrook Adventure Farm, Wimborne BH21 4JD See Santa in his Grotto and enjoy the farm. Ride on the tractor sleigh, meet and greet the real reindeer, donkeys, llamas and the farm animals. Open weekdays 11am–5pm, weekends & school holidays 9.30am– 5.30pm. Adult £5, under 2s £9, over 2s £15.
24 November Littledown Christmas Market Littledown Centre, Bournemouth BH7 7DX Enjoy the festive artisan market atmosphere with a visit from Father Christmas, face painting, entertainment from Jules the Entertainer, and a special appearance form Frozen’s Elsa & Olaf. 11am–4pm. Adult £1, child 50p (age 6–15), under 5’s free.
29–30 Nov, 1, 6-8, 13-24 Dec Santa’s Workshop The Ark, Poole Park BH15 2SF Write a letter to Santa, make reindeer food ready for Christmas Eve, paint your own Christmas Tree decoration in our new pottery studio and meet Santa himself and collect your gift. 11am–12.30pm. 1.30–3pm & 4–5.30pm. Advance booking. £12.50.
Fun for all the family as Santa and his procession enjoy their visit to Poole. Santa arrives at 10.30am, procession at 11.30am from Poole Quay to Falkland Square. Free.
2–20 December Santa Lives Here Castlepoint Shopping Park, Bournemouth BH8 9UZ
30 Nov, 1, 7–8, 14–15, 20–24 Dec
Stewarts Garden Centre, Christchurch BH23 4SA
Penguin Quest
Poole Santa Parade
Dobbies Garden Centre, Dorchester DT2 8BY
Santa Express
Have you ever wondered what Santa gets up to while he’s not working? Find out by visiting Santa’s Holiday Pod where there’s special visits from Santa himself, Santa’s helpers and Santa’s most special friends including Woody and Buzz, Barbie, Rudolph and more. 11am–4pm.
6-7 December
Swanage Railway, Swanage BH19 1HB Meet Santa on his special Steam Train and receive a wrapped present from Santa, complimentary soft drink and biscuit. There’s balloon modelling on the journey and entertainment on the platform too.10am– 4.15pm. Advance booking. Adult & child (age 3+) £20, child (1-2 years) £5, baby free.
30 Nov – 23 Dec
Santa Claus at Kingston Lacy
Farmer Palmer's Farm Park, Poole BH16 6EU Bring your little VIP's to meet the friendly 'Farmer Christmas' at Farmer Palmer's! The clever Elves use a time slot booking system so no long queues. Meet Father Christmas weekends during December and selected weekdays. Open 10am–4pm. Family £38.
30 Nov – 24 Dec Sail With Santa City Cruises Poole, Poole Quay BH15 1HJ Santa is taking a short break from all of his hard work in the North Pole to hop on board our harbour cruise. Enjoy entertainment from Dr. Balloon Man, a free glass of mulled wine and mince pie for the adults and a fruit shoot and cookie for the kids, before meeting Santa and receiving your gift. Don't forget to give your child's name, gender and age so we can make sure Santa's helpers can pick the right present! 9am–5pm. £17pp.
1 December
Poole Quay, Poole BH15 1HJ There’s plenty to get you into the festive spirit on the Quay, with musicians, Santa's grotto, craft workshop, face painters and more. 11am–6pm. Free.
8, 14–15, 21–22 Dec Santa Specials Moors Valley Country Park, Ringwood BH24 2ET Take a ride to see Father Christmas in his magnificent station grotto on one of the Santa Specials. He has presents for adults and children and there are seasonal refreshments to enjoy too. Advance booking. 11am–4pm. £18.50pp.
14 December Meet Father Christmas
Add a little magic to your visit with a trip to see Santa Claus in the Laundry at Kingston Lacy and add an extra bit of magic to the festive season. 6 Dec 4–6.15pm, 7 Dec 11am–5.45pm. £5.
Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1QR
Santa's Woodland Grotto Upton Country Park, Poole BH17 7BJ Santa is joined in his Woodland Grotto by friendly elves, owls and donkeys! Meet an owl, take your own pictures, enjoy the nativity scene with real donkeys, then meet Santa and receive a quality wrapped Christmas present and a photograph to take home. Weekdays 10.30am–5pm, weekends 9.30am–6pm. Adult £3.50, baby (under 13 mths) £4.99, toddler (13-36 mths) £11.99, child (age 3+) £14.99.
Father Christmas will be visiting Brewery Square, so come and watch the man himself on his sleigh as he does his rounds. Photo opportunities and gifts for children will also be available from 12pm–2pm.
Christmas at Shire Hall Shire Hall, Dorchester DT1 1UY Immerse yourself in a Christmas extravaganza, with festive music, Christmas craft workshops and glittery Christmas slime-making (£2 child) as well as chance to meet Father Christmas in his grotto (£4 child). 10am–4pm.
DANCING SANTA
Festive Family Fun AT THE FURLONG SHOPPING CENTRE, RINGWOOD
Bryon Road Christmas Lights Switch On Byron Road, New Milton BH25 7NX Show your support for one of Britain’s best residential street Christmas light displays in its very last big light switch on at 5pm. There’s plenty of live entertainment and three special celebrity guest appearances including King of the Jungle, Harry Redknapp. Santa will be visiting with presents for under 8s too. 3–7pm.
Saturday 7th December, 11am - 3pm
GIANT IGLOO PHOTO BOOTH STILT WALKING ELVES CRAFT STATION FACE PAINTING
FREE EVENT
BALLOON MODELLING
FOR FULL DETAILS VISIT THEFURLONG.CO.UK
& MORE!
FIND US JUST OFF THE A31, RINGWOOD
Viewpoint Christmas Event 87mm x 60mm.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk
Santa on the Quay
Kingston Lacy, Wimborne BH21 4EA
7–8, 14–15, 20–24 Dec
Magical Fun with ‘Farmer Christmas’
8 December
FREE PARKING FOR 2 HOURS
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
01/10/2019 16:04 Families Dorset 13
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23 Nov, 21 Dec Nerf Wars Leisure Centre, Ringwood BH24 1PX 2 hours of Nerf Wars fun for children of all abilities aged 5-12 years old. Safety goggles, Nerf guns and ammo provided. 2–4pm. £10.
29 November Christmas Lights Switch On
1–30 November
14 Nov – 5 Jan
Military Month at Monkey World
Winter Ice Skating
Monkey World, Wareham BH20 6HH
Lower Gardens, Bournemouth BH2 5AH
Monkey World knows the importance of quality family time for all primates, and the strain that military families are often under. That's why military personnel and their families can enjoy 15% off entry over November. Show military ID or Defence Discount card.
Find some festive euphoria on the surface of the ice, within the canopies of Bournemouth's Lower Gardens, which have been magically brought to life for the Christmas season. 10.30am–9.30pm. Family £38 at iceskatebournemouth.co.uk.
7, 14, 21, 28 Nov, 5, 12 Dec
15 Nov – 1 Jan Bournemouth Christmas Market
Nature Tots
The Square, Bournemouth BH2 5LY
Kingfisher Barn Centre, Bournemouth BH9 3NZ
Get your winter warmers on and take in the hustle and bustle of the festive market, offering the very best local retail items, delicious street food and an entertainment hub. 11am–11pm.
Give your little ones a love nature with new activities each week. Age 2-4. 10.30– 11am. Donation £2.50.
9 November
15 Nov – 2 Jan
Magical Fireworks Night
Christmas Tree Wonderland
Stourfield Junior School, Bournemouth BH6 5JS
Various Locations, Bournemouth, BH1
Come along for a magical night to remember. Attractions include fairground rides, food stalls, live music, games, bar bus and light ups. From 5.30pm. Adult £5, child £3, family £15.
10 November Babyballet Starmakers Show St Peters School, Bournemouth BH6 4AH Come & see these mini movers, groovers and tappers as they take to the stage to perform Twinkles Dream. Adult £12, child £6 (2-12 years), <2 years free. Performances at 1pm & 4.30pm. Advance booking at bournemouthandpoole@ babyballet.co.uk
12, 19, 26 Nov, 3 Dec Little Explorers My Wonderful World Monkey Madness, Christchurch BH23 2BT A chance to explore the world around us from the weather, vehicles, space and more, allowing those essential preschool skills to develop. Age 15 months - 5 years. 10.15–11.05am. £6.70 from thecreationstation.co.uk
14 November Baby Reflexology Taster Mothercare, Poole BH12 1DN A Babyology Dorset taster event for parents with babies (birth to pre-crawling), to learn how reflexology can be used to support their baby's health naturally. 11am–12pm. Free.
Spectacular Christmas tree trail, enchanting illuminations and seasonal family fun! Illuminated trees will guide you through an enchanted walkway encountering dazzling features and surprises along the way. From Bournemouth Beach into the Lower Gardens, town centre and to Westbourne, Boscombe and Southbourne. 10am–11pm.
16 November Charity Baby & Children’s Nearly New Sale Methodist Church, Broadstone BH18 8DT A nearly-new sale of clothes (maternity to 12 years), books, toys, linen and equipment, to raise funds for the Spring Charity at Poole Hospital. 2–3.30pm. Entry £1.
16, 22, 23, 30 Nov, 6, 7, 14, 21, 28 Dec Roller Disco Rossmore Leisure Centre, Poole BH12 4HR Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre, Christchurch BH23 1HW Roller City South presents an evening of roller disco fun for all ages and abilities. 6.30–8.30pm. Poole (Fri), Christchurch (Sat). £4.50. Free skate hire.
22 Nov, 11 Dec First Steps to Safety for 2-4 Year Olds SafeWise, Bournemouth BH11 8JJ Life skills education for pre-schoolers in an indoor learning village complete with a beach, house, shop, a street with road crossing, car, bus and more. Activities include role play, dress up, games and exploring. From 9.45am. Advance booking. Child £5.
Santa Dash Upton Country Park, Poole BH17 7BJ A fun new Christmas charity event for all the family to enjoy! Dress up as Santa and run a 2km course around the park whilst raising money for a worthy cause. Dogs go free – there’s a prize for the best-dressed dog! 10am–5pm. Adult £10, child £5, family £25.
4 December
Castlepoint Shopping Centre, Bournemouth BH8 9UZ
Bridport Christmas Cheer
Come along for the festive celebrations with a Christmas lights switch on and an evening of fun festive entertainment that the whole family will love. 5–7pm.
Late night shopping, lantern parade from 5.30pm from Bucky Doo Square to Borough Gardens, with live music, celebrations, a visit by Father Christmas and more. 4–8pm.
29 Nov – 18 Dec Real Christmas Tree Shop Moors Valley Country Park, Ringwood BH24 2ET Pick your perfect Christmas tree with the help of our specialist tree team this Christmas and receive free parking when you buy a tree from the Christmas Tree Shop. 10am–4.30pm. Visit moorsvalley.co.uk/Christmas
30 November Christmas Lights Switch On
Town Centre, Bridport DT6
4–8, 11–15, 18–23 Dec, 26 Dec–5 Jan Illuminated Garden at Kingston Lacy Kingston Lacy, Wimborne BH21 4EA Enjoy the chance to experience Kingston Lacy after dark during late night openings Wednesdays - Sundays, with a new illuminated experience transforming the formal garden as darkness falls. Normal property admission applies. 6–7pm.
4, 11, 18 December
Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1QR
Family Film Night
The festive season kicks off in style with a host of events lined up, including live music, performances, skating, lights illumination and Skating in the Square which runs until January. 4–8pm.
Shire Hall, Dorchester DT1 1UY
Christmas Tree Lights Switch On Falkland Square, Poole BH15 1ER Christmas Tree light switch on, come and see Poole High street come to life with its twinkling Christmas lights. From 4.45pm.
30 Nov, 14 Dec Bugs and Buds Knoll Gardens, Wimborne BH21 7ND Inspire a love of nature by encouraging your toddler’s interaction with the garden's many wildlife inhabitants as well as its trees and flowers. 10.30am–12pm. £5.
1 December
Watch Arthur Christmas 4 Dec, The Grinch 11 Dec and Muppet Christmas Carol 18 Dec. Popcorn and hot chocolate are provided, so all you need to do is bring yourselves and all the things you need to get comfy. 4pm. Adult free, child £4.
5 December Dorchester Christmas Cracker High Street, Dorchester DT1 1UJ Celebrate the festive season, with late night shop opening, Christmas street stalls, live music, arts, festive foods, Christmas lights switch-on and more. Late night shopping begins every Thursday until Christmas until 7pm. From 5.30–9pm.
6 December Christmas Play Ideas
Christmas Activity Trail
Munchkins Play Café, Dorchester DT1 1TT
Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Activity Centre, Bransgore BH23 8EE
Explore ideas for Christmas-themed toddler play activities that you can do at home. Age 1-3. 10.30–11.30am. Child £4.
Join in this festive activity trail to get you in the Christmas spirit! Try archery, bouldering, build a catapult, puzzling activities. 10am, 11am & 12pm. Adult free, child £6.
Christmas in Ringwood Town Centre, Ringwood BH24
Plate Painting Lollipops Café, Bournemouth BH4 9EH Decorate your own Christmas Eve plate using a range of glitter and bold colour paint pens. 10–11am. £7.50. Advance booking.
Celebrate the start of the Christmas period with entertainment for children and families, the turning on of the Christmas lights and a Christmas Market showcasing local crafts, foods, drinks and gifts. 10am–6pm.
Family First Aid Class Tesco Extra, Poole BH17 7EJ Learn first aid skills including CPR, how to deal with choking, burns, bleeding and much more with Daisy First Aid.10.30am– 1pm. £25pp.
DON’T FORGET to check with the venue before setting off just in case anything’s changed since we went to print. And remember to tell them you heard it first in Families Dorset magazine!
14 Families Dorset familiesonline.co.uk
7 December Christmas Dog Parade Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1QR Get your furry friends dressed up in something festive, bring them down to the Square and be in with a chance to win yourself a prize! 2–3pm.
Festive Fun Activity Day The Furlong, Ringwood BH24 1AT A festive family fun free winter wonderland community event, complete with inflatable igloo and photo booth experience, stilt walking elves, festive face painting, Christmas card crafting, an elf balloon modeller and a dancing Father Christmas! From 11am–3pm.
7–8 December
Christmas Market
14–15, 20–23, 27–29 Dec
RNLI College, Poole BH15 1HZ The RNLI College Christmas Market is a chance to buy Christmas gifts for all the family, with festive food, drinks, live music, kids’ arts and crafts workshops and a visit from Father Christmas, who’s arriving by Lifeboat. 11am–4pm. Free.
11 December Blandford Yuletide Festival Town Centre, Blandford DT11 7AW Festivities kick off at 5pm and include a lantern parade at 6pm led by Father Christmas, carol singing, entertainment and fireworks at 8.30pm. 5–9pm.
Poole Lantern Parade Falkland Square, Poole BH15 1EG
Avon Heath Country Park, Ringwood BH24 2DA
Get that festive feeling as beautifully crafted handmade lanterns light up the town. Leaving Falkland Square at 6pm, join the parade through the town centre to the Guildhall for carols and mince pies. Free.
8 December Babyballet Christmas Party
Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ Take in the festive atmosphere as you explore the lantern-lit castle grounds, share your special memory or wish and place it on the 'Christmas Wish' trees. The Lord of Misrule will also be causing mischief in the castle. From 4.30–7pm. Normal admission charges apply. Free event.
19 December Brewery Square Presents: The Snowman Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1QR Enjoy The Snowman double bill of The Snowman and The Snowman & The Snow Dog on the Screen On The Square from 6pm–8pm.
12 December
Reindeer Making
Create a fantastic festive wooden reindeer. Booking essential on 01425 478082. 11am–3pm. £8.
Winter Lights at Corfe Castle
14 December Messy Christmas
Beach Hotel, Bournemouth BH1 3AQ
Community Centre, Bridport DT6 3RL
Join Babyballet for plenty of Christmas fun, games and dancing, and meet Father Christmas and Twinkle Bear too! Each child receives a gift from Father Christmas. 9.30am & 11.30am. £13 from Babyballet Bournemouth.
A festive party with sensory activities to enjoy including foam, spaghetti, jelly and more. Age 6 months to 5 years. 10.30–11.30am. Child £10, siblings £6.
Christmas Pop up Pottery Avon Heath Country Park, Ringwood BH24 2DA Make & Paint workshops using air dry clay. Make a Christmas tree lantern at 11am, or a Snowman lantern at 2pm. Bring a box to take your creations home. Advance booking. £8.
2–3 January The 115 Holiday Club Moordown St John’s Primary School, Bournemouth BH9 2SA Banish the post-Christmas blues with an ice-skating trip and fun indoor play including ‘snowball’ fight, mini marshmallow snowmen and make a unique non-melting snowman to take home. Friday is party day complete with bouncy castle and facepainting. For under 8s, over 8s and 11+. 8am–5.45pm. £24 day. 115club.co.uk Early bird discount until 12 December.
21 December Christmas Film Nights Falkland Square, Poole BH15 1ER Pop down, snuggle up in a special seated movie area with patio heaters and blankets, grab some hot food and drinks and settle down to some of your Christmas favourites. 11am–4pm. Free.
3 January 'Frozen' Children's Party Upton Country Park, Poole BH17 7BJ A children's ‘Frozen’ inspired party, with very special guests (and photo opportunities with) Anna, Elsa and Olaf! 10am–12pm. Booking essential. Child (age 2+) £5.95.
WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR LOCAL EVENT IN THE NEXT ISSUE?
email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
in Poole 2019 Featuring: Christmas Lights Switch On - 30th November Santa Parade - 1st December Santa on the Quay - 8th December Christmas Singalong - 14th December Christmas Movies & Kids’ Activities - 21st December
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Families Dorset 15
An Act of Kindness for Every Day of Advent! – choose from below or make up your own 1. Smile at everyone you see today 2. Make cards for elderly people in your street 3. Tell someone the reasons you like them 4. Pick up litter in your street or local park 5. Clean up a mess you didn’t make 6. Wish a stranger a nice day 7. Help make dinner 8. Donate pocket money to charity 9. Compliment staff at a café or shop 10. Donate books, toys and clothes to charity 1 1. Volunteer at a festive community event
Zoe took biscuits to school
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12. Leave snacks on your doorstep for delivery people 13. Let somebody go ahead of you in the queue 14. Hug someone 15. Bake biscuits to take to school or work 16. Deliver notes to houses with great Christmas light displays 17. Pack away your things without being asked 18. Make someone laugh 19. Take canned food to your local food bank 20. Make a list of the things you’re thankful for 21. Leave a kind note where someone will find it 22. Send a Christmas card to someone overseas 23. Do a chore for someone else 24. Leave food out for Santa and his reindeer!
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Perform an a ct of kindness each day until Ch ristmas! Pin up the c alendar and keep a daily record of yo ur family’s good deeds .
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