Families Dorset March/April 2024 Digital

Nature Tots: every Monday until 25th March, 10am to 12pm. Just £5 per

Easter Egg Hunt and Easter Crafts: Friday 29th March, 9.30am to 11.30am and 2pm to 4pm. Free to

Open Day: Tuesday 16th April 9am to 3pm.

Little Crickets Forest School, adjacent to Cooper Dean Pavilion, Cavendish

Welcome

Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to get back outdoors! To entice you, we have some fabulous family walks from our friends at The Outdoor Guide, as well as some interesting outdoor spring activities for the kids to try. You can even find out how to teach them some Forest School skills in this issue.

It’s a packed couple of months with Mother’s Day and Easter just round the corner. Find something fabulous that dad can bake with the kids for Mother’s Day. Then, check our top recommendations for Easter eggs, take a look at our free Easter printables which will keep the kids busy and download our Easter chick craft activity.

Finally, in this issue, we have tonnes of fabulous giveaways on offer. By applying, you can ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

our

The future starts at Talbot Heath…

It was Bill Gates who said that 'the first five years have so much to do with how the next eighty turn out'. Talbot Heath School believes in the importance of strong educational foundations and close collaboration with parents so that a holistic, consistent approach is fostered which ensures each child’s social, emotional, cognitive and physical needs are met.

So in a fast changing world full of increasing challenges, how does the school prepare its children for the future?

Making the most of every opportunity

Developing confidence, resilience and perseverance through a broad and rich curriculum is at the heart of what the school does.

Expert, dedicated and caring practitioners deliver phonics, numeracy, PE (including swimming), Modern Foreign Languages, music, art and design enabling children to explore, play and initiate their learning. Trips to local shops, parks and libraries

embed learning in real experiences.

The school offers weekly Forest School sessions which give children plenty of opportunities to be learner focused; assessing risk, making decisions, working collaboratively and being independent…and most essentially, having plenty of muddy fun!

Keeping it real in a virtual world Being digitally proficient is a vital element of growing up for today’s children. The ability to understand and use technology safely and responsibly starts at a young age at Talbot Heath with pupils having access to a 1:1 school iPad to use as a tool to enhance and enrich their learning. Alongside this, through the use of the school’s woodland campus, children understand and appreciate the importance of their environment, their place within it and how to be sustainable.

Whether it be growing vegetables, playing with friends in the secret garden or reading a book in the sunshine, pupils get the real childhood they deserve.

Find out more HERE.

Developing a positive attitude towards learning

By Gail Hugman

No matter how skilled or knowledgeable a person might be, their attitude may well be the deciding factor in their future success, both personal and professional.

The second a child is born, its brain, with roughly eighty six billion neurons or nerve cells, ‘hits the ground running’ making connections through senses and experience.

Everything a young child does, feels, hears and sees creates pathways between these nerve cells, building a reference bank of experience. In the first three years, the connections the brain makes have risen to one thousand trillion. This is an automatic process. Ninety percent of brain development is complete by the time a child is 5 years old.

Although there is a default setting for the brain to function whether we engage or not, when it comes to learning, children who are actively engaged in the learning process are

going to be far more effective and therefore, higher achieving than their peers who are simply ‘going through the motions’ of learning.

The child who loves practising the guitar is going to progress more quickly than the child who battles with you or resents practising!

The reason for this is that as we grow, the brain takes its lead from what we do repeatedly. Where we make a conscious decision to put effort is where the brain will focus connections.

Children who enjoy what they’re doing, who love learning, who have a positive attitude, actively engage. Active engagement creates the signal for the connections the brain makes to be ‘cemented’ in myelin, a coating of fat and protein which make it ‘automatic.’ This is how learning is assimilated and habits are created.

Continued on page 7

Top educational gaming options for kids

Gaming isn’t all bad – there are lots of options which can benefit your child’s learning and development.

Minecraft

Fosters creativity, problem-solving and collaboration. Ages 7+.

SimCity Simulation game that develops planning, resource management and civic awareness. Ages 7+.

LEGO Worlds

Allows players to build and explore Lego creations. Ages 7+.

Karate Cats

A game that helps KS1 students with spelling and grammar. Ages 3+.

Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster

Teaches empathy, cooperation and selfconfidence. Ages 3+.

Animal Crossing Simulates social interactions, community and nature. Ages 3+.

DragonBox

A series of fun games introducing algebra and geometry. Ages 3+.

LittleBigPlanet

Promotes creativity, design and teamwork. Ages 7+.

Zoo Tycoon

Teaches animal care, conservation and business skills. Ages 3+

Developing a positive attitude towards learning

By Gail Hugman

Continued from page 5

The brain doesn’t know whether what we’re doing is good or not, it just takes its lead from repetitious behaviour and feedback from our surroundings, in this case, parents and teachers.

The more positive our attitude, the more positive the connections and growth we make, which can lead to excellence in performance.

Gail Hugman is a teaching and learning expert at Lessons Alive

and author of 100 Things to Learn Before You’re 10, plus the soon to be published Making the Pennies Drop – Helping your Child Build Skills. Available from Amazon.

Exceptional opportunities at Park School

Park School is a co-educational, independent day school, highly respected in the Bournemouth area for providing outstanding education for boys and girls from ages 3 months to 11 years.

In the school’s latest ISI Inspection report, inspectors commented: ‘The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent’ and ‘Pupils make strong overall progress. Their attainment by the end of Year 6 is excellent.’

The school aims to develop the whole child. Teaching is dynamic and interesting, encouraging a love of learning and a thirst for knowledge. Alongside its excellent reputation, Park School is a happy school, where children feel safe, valued and supported by strong relationships with teachers and friends.

Register for its Open Morning on Thursday 21 March HERE .

Great podcasts for kids

Take a pick from our fabulous recommendations and find something that will really engage your child.

Girl Tales

A long-running podcast that reimagines fairytales through an empowering lens. Ages 4+.

But Why?

Kids ask questions and get answers from experts on various topics. Ages 5+.

The Story Seeds Podcast

Pairs young writers with professional authors. Ages 7+.

The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd

A time-travelling adventure series for kids.

Ages 5-8.

The Past and The Curious

A history podcast that makes learning fun for kids of all ages.

The Big Fib

A fast-paced game show that challenges kids to spot the liar. Ages 7+.

Unspookable

A family-friendly take on popular urban legends, scary stories and myths.

Ages 8+.

Brains On!

A science podcast that answers curious questions from kids.

Ages 8+.

Marvellous Musical Podcast

Fun, engaging intro to classical music and composers. Ages 7+.

GO EAST at Monkey World this Easter!

This Easter holidays, Monkey World in Wareham will be fundraising. Its goal is to put rescued and rehabilitated gibbons, loris and douc back into the wild from its sister sanctuary, Dao Tien, in Vietnam, run by charity EAST (Endangered Asian Species Trust).

Through talks, activities, games and stalls, families can learn about our agile acrobats, the gibbons, their plight in the wild and how Monkey World's charity, EAST, is boosting the wild population of golden-cheeked gibbons in Vietnam.

This year is a bumper year of release for EAST, who are returning rescued and endangered loris, gibbons and doucs from the black market trade to protected forest to help grow the wild population. You can visit its website to find out more about EAST's work.

PLUS over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, families can complete the fun Easter Trail for a chocolate treat!

More information HERE.

Easter holiday fun at Purbeck Sports Centre

There are some fantastic family activities at Purbeck Sports Centre in Wareham over the Easter Holidays.

Favourites include football fun, tennis camp, dance workshops, archery, Nerf gun fun, laser tag and intensive swimming lessons. The popular Easter in Dorset Holiday Club runs Monday to Thursdays, 2 to 12 April (8.30am to 4.30pm), with sessions including multi-sports activities, fun games, swimming and lunch. Book online, in person or by calling the Centre and book early to guarantee your place!

The indoor swimming pool is open all day, every day with sessions that include lane swimming, wet and wild, family fun, aqua-fit and public sessions. Visit the website for the current swimming pool programme. The centre also has three floodlit artificial surface tennis courts, five badminton courts, a table tennis table and two squash courts. Call 01929 500000 to book.

For more information, visit the Purbeck Sports Centre website HERE.

Discover Wimborne Model Town

Take the FREE quiz which guides you around this fascinating miniature town, set in beautiful gardens, with over one hundred shops and businesses at 1/10 scale.

Enjoy Bears Weekend on 25 and 26 May! Meet the Wareham Bears, make music in the Sensory Garden, drive a Model Railway train, discover Life Before Lego, delight in the Beryl Dade Dolls’ House Collection – even play Crazy Golf.

Tea room for lunch and snacks. Unlimited return visits for a year.

Confidence building fun with Perform

Perform drama, dance and singing classes for children ages 4 to 7 and 7 to 12 will boost your child’s confidence and give them a creative outlet, the chance to make friends and have fun.

Join in the fun with Perform Bournemouth Tuesdays at 4pm for ages 4-7 and 5.05pm for ages 7-12. St Augustin's Church Hall, Bournemouth, BH2 6NU

Every child is welcome to try a FREE class to see if they like it. Book a FREE class HERE.

Party with Nikki’s Dance Parties

Nikki’s Dance Parties is a Dorset based party provider that offers a wide variety of children’s parties. From discos, dance parties, princess-themed parties, early years character and mascot discos, pamper parties, arty crafty parties, mascot Meet & Greets and an unmanned hire service, there’s something to suit every taste.

Catering for all age groups, Nikki’s Dance Parties work closely with the client to create the theme for a bespoke party experience, ensuring its young clients have a party to remember. Flexibility is key with packages for large or small parties available.

All hosts are DBS checked and the company is fully insured. Nikki’s Dance Parties covers the whole of Dorset and surrounds in venues provided by the client.

Nikki’s Dance Parties also runs holiday workshops and seasonal events.

For more information on packages, EMAIL or call/text 07864 780143.

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

MARCH

Every Friday until 22 Mar

Parent & Toddler Group at Careys Secret Garden

An activity related to a story/theme to encourage exploring the woodland. Includes FREE play.

Every Thu in term time

Roots and Shoots at Upton Country Park Grandparent-friendly tots sessions with storytelling, crafts and exploration in the gardens.

Every Fri in term time

Puddle Jumpers Club Forest School at Upton Country Park

Outdoor activity sessions designed for pre-schoolers and parents. Booking required.

Every Sat & Sun until 31 Mar

Magic Potion

Masterclasses at Upton Country Park

Create your own magic potions and take them home in a unique potion bottle.

Sat 9 Mar

Make a Space Rocket at Swanage Library

Meet Steve Plant from UK Space Agency and make a space rocket afterwards 11.30-3pm. Ages 3-11.

Create your own galaxy at Swanage Library

Have fun with chalk and make a lovely space picture to take home 123pm, Ages 3-11.

Family Felting Fun at Wareham Library

Create a felted greeting card or a work of art. All materials provided 9.3011am. Ages 4+.

Sat 9 Mar to Sun 17 Mar

National Lottery Open Week at the Tank Museum

One child under 16 goes FREE with every full paying adult valid with National Lottery ticket.

Sun 10 Mar

Science Day at Nothe Fort Fun and immersive Science Day, full of experiments and activities for the family to enjoy.

Mothers Day at Farmer Palmers Farm Park

Half price tickets for all mums and special cream teas.

Mother’s Day Paddle to the Pub in Beaulieu Treat Mum to a wonderful paddle to the pub on the Beaulieu River with New Forest Activities.

Mother’s Day at Seaton Tramway

Fantastic day out for everyone this Mother’s Day. Mum travels FREE.

50% for Mums at Monkey World

Mum’s get 50% off entry at Monkey World on Mother’s Day.

Tue 12 Mar

Duplo Play at Dorchester Library

Join a themed Duplo play session all about vehicles, Ages 0-4.

Sat 16 Mar

LEGO club at Dorcester Library

Celebrate Science Week and create a spaceship, science lab or a robot.

Sun 17 Mar

Family Science Day at Dorset Museum

Get involved with some fascinating hands-on learning and experiments. FREE. Ages 4+.

Wed 20 Mar & Wed 17 Apr

Nature Tots at Kingcombe Visitor Centre

Bring children ages 4 and under to experience the wildlife of Kingcombe.

ON

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

Fri 22 Mar to Sun 24 Mar

Victorian Weekend at Swanage Railway

Featuring Victorian steam locos hauling the trains from Norden to Corfe Castle and Swanage.

Sat 23 Mar & Sat 13 Apr

Stargazing at Durlston Country Park

Join the Wessex Astronomical Society to use telescopes to view the stars and planets.

Sat 23 Mar, 27 Apr, 25

May & 29 Jun

Fox & Cubs Club at Upton Country Park Sessions designed for dads and kids to spend quality time together in the great outdoors.

Sat 23 Mar to Wed 14 Apr Spring Games at Corfe Castle

Try a range of traditional games, welly wanging, egg and spoon race and much more.

Sat 23 Mar to Mon 12 Apr

Canoe Easter Egg Hunt at Beaulieu

Two hour guided canoe tour on the hunt for Easter eggs.

Sat 23 Mar to Sun 14 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt at Brownsea Island

Follow interactive trail to discover all about birds and their amazing lives.

Includes chocolate or Free From egg. £3 plus normal admission.

Mon 25 & Tue 26 Mar & 2, 5, 8, 9, 12 Apr

Little Crickets Forest School Holiday Club at Park School, Bournemouth

Holiday Club runs from 8.30am to 5pm. Open to all. Booking required.

Thu 28 Mar to Sun 14 Apr

Easter Fun Fair at Nothe Fort

Hop into a world of fun for all the family, croquet, spoon race, bowling and more.

Easter Egg Hunt at Kingston Lacy

Make your way along the trail and find natureinspired activities. Includes chocolate or Free From egg. £3 plus normal admission.

Thu 28 Mar to Mon 15 Apr Bonkers Bunnies

Children’s Activity Trail at Durlston Country Park

Collect your activity trail booklet (£3.50) and find the bonkers bunnies.

Fri 29 Mar, 26 Apr, 31 May, Fri 28 Jun

Parent & Baby Walk at RSPB Arne

Meet other young families on a gentle nature walk with frequent stops.

Fri 29 Mar & Fri 26 April

Preschoolers Nature Club at RSPB Arne

Monthly nature group aimed at preschool children aged between 2 ½ and 5 years old.

Fri 29 Mar to Mon 1 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt at Corfe Castle

Make your way along the trail and find natureinspired activities. Includes chocolate or Free From egg. £3 plus normal admission.

Easter Egg Hunt at Hardy Monument Trail includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears. Includes dairy or Free From egg. £3 plus normal admission.

Easter Egg Hunt at Farmer Palmers Farm Park

Search for hundreds of hidden mini chocolate eggs or a golden ticket to win a BIG egg.

Easter Eggs-tramaganza at Tram at Seaton Tramway

Find Gilbert the Station Master’s Goose and his Cheeky Chicks to win an Easter treat.

Easter Eggs-travaganza at Monkey World

FREE Easter egg trail for kids around the park.

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

Fri 29 Mar to Wed 3 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt at Hive Beach

Trail includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and Free From chocolate egg. £3 per trail.

Fri 29 Mar to Mon 8 Apr

Easter Archery

Tournament at Beaulieu

Take aim during a range of fun Easter themed games and challenges.

Fri 29 Mar to Sun 14 Apr

Easter at Farmer Palmers Farm Park

Bandit bunnies on the loose, water pistols, tractor rides and more EGGCITING fun.

Easter Holiday Activities at The Tank Museum

Investigate the medals in The Tank Museum with Easter Holiday fun for the whole family.

Easter Quiz at Wimborne Model Town

Follow the clues laid around the town and collect the letters to crack the Easter phrase.

Go-EAST at Monkey World

Help fundraise for primate releases through activities, games and trails.

Sat 30 & Sun 31 Mar

Pre-History Weekend at Ancient Technology

Centre

Living History displays, hands on activities, reenactment displays and refreshments.

Sun 31 Mar

Easter Bonnet Parade in Lyme Regis

Watch the wonderful and extravagant creations parade through the town.

Sun 31 Mar to Thu 11 Apr

Easter at Highcliffe Castle

Join in a range of Easter crafts and activities, indoor and outdoor.

Spring Family Fun at Lulworth Castle

Enjoy trails, games, hunts & crafts all included in the usual admission price.

APRIL

Mon 1 Apr

Get Up & Bounce at Upton Country Park

Bounce into spring with a visit to the Walled Garden to enjoy an array of Bouncy Castles.

Family Easter Activity

Trail at Upton Country Park

Find all the eggs and crack the code to receive your fantastic Easter surprise.

Easter Monday Duck

Race in Lyme Regis

Hundreds of individually numbered yellow plastic ducks will be dropped into the River Lym.

Mon 1 Apr & Wed 10 Apr

Easter Fun at Swanage Pier

Drop in between 11am3pm for crafts and games.

Tue 2 Apr

Little Explorers at East Dorset Museum

Bring your little ones for a blooming good time crafting, stories, garden trail with reward.

Wed 3 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt at St Mary’s Church

Dorchester

A hunt for Easter eggs

hidden inside St Mary’s Church, starts 2pm.

Wed 3 Apr & Wed 10 Apr

The Pirate Tram at Seaton Tramway

Set sail on the Seaton Pearl, hoist the Jolly Roger, walk, talk and look like a pirate.

Wild Wednesdays at Durlston Country Park

Drop-in craft activities for kids and families. FREE.

WHAT’S ON

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

Thu 4 Apr

Flower Pot Planting for Kids at Durlston Country Park

Join a Ranger, decorate your own plant pot and plant some seeds. Booking required.

Thu 4 Apr to Wed 17 Apr

Family Activity TrailNature Bingo at Upton Country Park

Pick up a FREE trail sheet, get outside to notice seasonal changes.

Fri 5 Apr

Easter Egg Hunt at Blandford Forum Town Hall

FREE Easter egg hunt, solve the clues and collect your prize. 10am-12noon.

Junk Modelling at Forest Arts Centre New Milton

Creating new and exciting things from discarded items. Ages 7-13. Booking required

Fri & Sat 5-6 & Fri & Sat 12-13 Apr

Family Bushcraft Workshops at Brownsea Island

From wood carving, fire lighting skills, animal tracking to foraging and den building, Ages 5+.

Sat 6 Apr

Beach Clean at Lulworth Cove Beach

Join the rangers to spring clean this beautiful beach, meet at 10.30 at Lulworth Cove Visitor Centre.

Sun 7 Apr

Beach Clean at Durdle Door

Join the rangers to spring clean this beautiful beach, meet 10.30 at Durdle Door car park.

Sun 7 Apr & Sun 14 Apr

The Dinosaur Tram Adventure at Seaton Tramway

Adventure-filled tram ride with music, stories, fossil dig and a dinosaur activity.

Tue 9 Apr

Kids Easter Drawing Workshop at Durlston Country Park

Join artist Mark Page for a workshop learning to draw Easter bunnies and hares. Ages 7+.

Wed 10 Apr & Mon 20 May

Not Quite the Dawn Chorus Walks for Families at RSPB Arne Enjoy a guided walk listening to the chorus of birdsong, finishes with breakfast bap and drink.

Thu 11 Apr

Lets’s Go Fly a Kite at Durlston Country Park

Join a Durlson Ranger to design and make your own mini-kits, learn to fly them.

Fri 12 Apr

Sensory Story Tram at Seaton Tramway

A sensory version of the popular Story Tram, perfect for young children.

Sat 13 Apr

WonderDomes Family Activity at Durlston Country Park

An interactive, outdoor activity that explores the world of plants, through play and creativity.

Sat & Sun 13-14 Apr

Meet the Lambs at Kingston Lacy

Kingston Lacy’s sheep will be lambing so join a member of the farm team to meet the lambs this weekend.

Tue 16 Apr to Wed 18 Jul Rooted in the Ruins Family Quest at Corfe Castle

Hunt the ruins for the quest boards to earn your conservation coin.

Thu 18 Apr & Thu 2 May

Storytime at Dorset Museum

Join a fun-filled storytime and listen to some amazing tales.

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

Sat & Sun 20-21 Apr

Spring Countryside Show in Shaftesbury

Lots to see and do, tractor rides, blacksmith, falconry, FlyBall and working steam engines.

Sat 27 Apr

Victorian Falconry & Hawking at Nothe Fort Fascinating falconry tour through time in a series of live demonstrations

Sat & Sun 27-28 Apr

Dorset Spring Show in Kingston Maurward

MAY

Fri 3 May to Sun 5 May

Teddy Rocks Family Friendly Music Festival

Three day family-friendly music festival with action heroes, axe throwing, bouncy castles and more.

Sat 4 May

Watersports Open Day in Weymouth

Free sailing, kayaking tasters, giant paddleboard fun, cardboard boat race, bouncy castle and more.

Sat 4 May to Mon 6 May

Go Nuts at Monkey World

Every child who brings an unopened bag of nuts with them will receive a FREE Monkey World badge.

Tue 14 May

Discover the Farm Animals at Kingston Lacy Join the Farm Manager to meet the cows, sheep and pigs and learn about their conservation role.

Fri 24 May to Sun 26 May

Cursus Cider & Music Festival in Blandford Forum

Small, inclusive and family-friendly festival with a reputation for fun, delicious food, cider and music.

Sat & Sun 25-26 May

Meet the Wareham Bears at Wimborne Model Town Enjoy Bears Weekend. Meet the Wareham Bears, make music in the Sensory Garden, drive a Model Railway train, discover Life Before Lego, delight in the Beryl Dade Dolls’ House Collection – even play Crazy Golf.

Sat & Sun 25-26 May

Swanage Pirate Festival on Isle of Purbeck

A FREE festival of swashbuckling shenanigans and skirmishes for all pirates and mermaids.

Sat 25 May to Mon 27

May

Christchurch Food Festival

Incredible food and a range of exciting activities

and entertainment for the whole family.

Sat 25 May to Sun 2 Jun

May Half Term at Corfe Castle

Discover wildlife with a new family quest, join a storyteller on interactive tour.

Pirates at Nothe Fort Set sail for a day of familyfriendly adventure with Pirate of the Fort, fit for the whole crew.

Mon 27 May

Sherborne Castle Country Fair

Fun-packed Country Fair with attractions, entertainment and activities for all the family.

Corfe Castle Village May Fair

Traditional village fete hosted by Corfe Castle with games, crafts, facepainting and more.

Mon 27 to Wed 31 May

Half Term at Farmer Palmers Farm Park Book ahead for popular activities including tractor rides, sheep shearing and Wild West Soak off.

Fri 31 May to Sat 1 Jun

Swanage Fairy Festival

Magical and spectacular live shows entertainment, food and drink and arts and crafts.

What’s on

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

JUNE

Sat 1 Jun

Family Fest in Wimborne

Fun-packed live music with new busking area, children’s shows, dog show and tonnes more fun.

Sat 8 Jun

Summerfest in Weymouth

Action filled day of entertainment, live music, sports, food and drink stalls, fun fairs and more.

Uplyme Village Fete

Traditional village fete as well as jam-packed programme of colourful and innovative events.

Sat & Sun 8-9 Jun

Lyme Regis Fossil Festival

FREE family-friendly festival for fossil enthusiasts of all ages with activities and workshops for kids.

Sat 15 Jun

Harry Paye Pirate Day in Poole

Parade of pirates, live music, junior pirates competition, pirate games, children’s rides and more.

Sun 16 Jun

Father’s Day at Seaton Tramway

Fantastic day out for everyone this Father’s Day. Dad travels FREE.

50% for Dads at Monkey World

Dad’s get 50% off entry at Monkey World on Father’s Day.

Thu 20 to Sat 22 Jun

Family Festival

Family-friendly music and arts festival show casing diverse musical, theatrical and comedy talent.

Fri & Sat 21-22 Jun

Dorset Fest in Blandford Forum

Family-friendly music festive with range of music, entertainment and food stalls.

Sat & Sun 29-30 Jun

Artisan Weekend at Corfe Castle

Join artisan volunteers to learn about medieval crafts.

Sun 30 Jun

Summertime Fayre in Dorchester Bouncy castle, tug of war, market stalls, entertainment and more.

CHILDREN’S THEATRE BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION

Jurassic Live Fri 5 to Sun 7 Apr

See dinosaurs live on stage along with prehistoric birds flying over your head. Ages 2+.

Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out Wed 10 to Thu 11 Apr

Join Peppa and her family and friends as they go to the zoo and the beach for a special party. All ages.

BRIDPORT ART CENTRE

The Greatest Magician Wed 13 Mar

A dazzling and ever evolving magic show for all ages.

CORN EXCHANGE

The Discovery Lab 17 Mar Improvised theatre meets interactive science by Big Bold Drama. Ages 6+.

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at Corn Exchange Tue 2 Apr Wonderland floods onto the stage in a whirl of strange contraptions and curious characters. Ages 4+

Magic & Marvels Wonderland at Corn Exchange Sun 5 May

Mesmerising magic with awe-inspiring feats of juggling and daring stunts.

MARINE THEATRE, LYME REGIS

Alice in Wonderland Wed 3 Apr

Filled with live music and puppetry, it’s the perfect show for the whole family.

LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE

Awful Auntie Thu 21 to Sun 24 Mar

Expect laughs, spectacular effects, ghosts, schemes, twists and more. Ages 5+.

The Little Prince Tue 2 Apr

Mesmerising puppetry and beautiful songs in this adaptation of the bestselling children’s book.

The Tiger Who Came to Tea Fri 12 to Sun 14 Apr Delightful show packed with oodles of magic, singa-long songs and clumsy chaos. Ages 3+.

Grooving with Pirates Sat 27 Apr

A swashbuckling adventure in this exciting, jazz and funk fuelled show. Ages 3-7.

What’s on

REGENT THEATRE, CHRISTCHURCH

Exciting Science Sun 17 Mar

Brand new, exciting and educational show will amaze and astound. Ages 4+.

The Little Mermaid Wed 29 May to Sat 1 Jun

Based on the classic fairy tale and Disney’s animated feature, all the characters you love.

TIVOLI THEATRE, WIMBORNE

The Greatest Magician Thu 14 Mar

A dazzling magic show for all ages.

WEYMOUTH PAVILION

The Amazing Bubbleman Mon 8 Apr

Spellbinding bubble

tricks to keep everyone mesmerised. All ages.

Easter Pantomime Beauty and The Beast Sat 13 Apr

With a star cast, music, dance routines and jokes, slapstick and audience participation.

Cirque: The Greatest Show Sat 20 to Sun 21 Apr

Where musical theatre showstoppers meet jaw dropping circus spectacular. Ages 3+.

Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book Tue 30 Apr to Thu 2 May

Delve into books with Charlie Cook brought to life with puppetry and enchanting songs. Ages 3-8.

Sea Monkeys Mini Pet Activity Bundles

Ages 6+

Everything you need to hatch, grow and nurture your own swimming pets!

Bundles include:

Sea Monkeys Ocean Zoo

Sea Monkeys On Mars Tank

Sea Monkeys Magic Castle Tank

Sea Monkeys Instant Life Mystery Egg

Ages 6+

Teach your kids Forest School skills

Shelter building

Build a den for toys using natural materials. (Ages 2-4)

Erect a temporary shelter making use of woodland materials. (Ages 5-7)

Create a tarpaulin shelter in a woodland. (Ages 8-9)

Make a tipi shelter with camouflage. (Ages 10-11)

Use tools

Safely use a soft hammer to bash leaves. (Ages 2-4)

Use secateurs and loppers to cut wood safely and make something from natural materials. (Ages 5-7)

Whittle a stick safely or use a bow saw to cut wood into sections. (Ages 8-9)

Use a saw independently to make a tree cookie. (Ages 10-11)

A Day at Forest School

Cooking with fire

Toast marshmallows - a fun introduction to cooking with fire. (Ages 2-4)

Melt chocolate or make popcorn on an open fire. (Ages 5-7)

Bake damper bread on a stick or fry scotch or Welsh cakes. (Ages 8-9)

Make and tend a campfire safely and cook roast food. (Ages 10-11)

Navigation

Teach little ones map reading with this Easter Egg treasure hunt map. (Ages 3-7)

Learn basic map symbols with Map Symbol Bingo downloadable. (Ages 5-7)

Make a simple orienteering course around your home or garden. (Ages 8-9)

Combine map reading and compass skills with handy guides and videos. (Ages 10-11)

How to light a campfire

Essential family travel accessories

Heading away for an Easter break? Don’t miss these essentials when you pack!

Hanging wash bag

Lightweight. Sits flat in your luggage. Unzip and hang. £36.

Family document organiser

A must-have to ensure a smooth journey to your destination. £30.

Compact travel cot

Compact and lightweight, this cot can double as a playpen. £45.

Electronic accessories organiser

Ensure your family’s cables and chargers are not lost. £16.99

Travel First Aid kit

Essential for scrapes, bumps and burns. £12.

Travel game set

Travel-sized 3-in-1 version of classic games. £16.

Travel towels

Soft microfibre towels. No soggy towel, no odour, no bulk. £42.

Reusable bamboo drink straws

For cans, bottled soft drinks, smoothies and milkshakes. £6.95.

Travel toddler & child booster seat

Transforms into portable carry bag. Store bottles, nappies, snacks and more. £26.

Adventure travel for families

We asked Ashley Lutz from Travel Counsellors for her recommendations for those who have a sense of adventure.

New Zealand

Think volcanoes, thermal springs, beaches, cityscapes and offshore islands

Sri Lanka

Think exotic wildlife, ancient forts, captivating culture, peaceful villages, safaris and beaches.

Pyrenees

Think hiking, cycling, zip-lining, rafting, horseriding and fishing – off the beaten track.

Switzerland

Think action - rope parks, toboggan runs, swimming/boating, mountain hiking and biking.

South Africa

Think ‘big five’ safaris, cosmopolitan Cape Town and even Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Iceland

Think one of the most impressive wonders of the natural world .

Canada

Think outdoors - Niagara Falls, the Rockies, whale/ bear spotting round Vancouver Island.

Bali

Think rainforests, gorges, rice paddies, snorkelling, white water rafting, delicious street food.

Costa Rica

Think national parks, unspoilt landscapes, cloud forests, volcanoes, sandy beaches.

Top Mother’s Day bakes

Grab dad and head to the kitchen to bake an extra-special gift for mum.

Rhubarb and orange custard tart

This tangy rhubarb custard tart includes orange for added zest.

Vanilla cupcakes

Decorate with buttercream and a topping of your choice.

Easy chocolate cake

This chocolate cake recipe is super easy and quick to make.

I love mum biscuits

The perfect way for little ones to learn letters while they bake.

Chocolate fridge cake

No-bake cake - simple to make. Ideal treat for the special day!

No-back orange cheesecake

An easy cheesecake for kids to prepare with just a little supervision.

Lemon and blueberry loaf cake

A simple, springtime lemon and blueberry loaf cake.

Butterfly cakes

These classic bakes are great for kids or baking novices.

Luscious lemon pudding

Simple ingredients and easy for kids to help with.

MAKE AN EASTER CHICK CUP

Looking forward to Easter?

Try this Easter craft from our friends at Orchard Toys to get everyone in the mood

EASTER

Best Easter Eggs 2024

Take a look at our selection and choose something your kids will love!

Cocoba Candy Bean Egg

£11.95 250g

Belgian milk chocolate decorated with chocolate drizzle and candy beans.

Toast & Marmalade Easter Sandwich

£10.95 135g

Two slices of luxurious chocolate with a chocolate egg.

M&S Chocosaurus Rex

£6 135g

T-Rex shaped hollow milk chocolate surprise.

H!P Oat M!lk Salted Caramel Egg

£10 160g

Chocolate oat milk egg with salted caramel and chocolate buttons.

Moo Free Strawberry Sundae Egg

£4.50 85g

White choc alternative. Strawberry flavour & marshmallows.

Chocolate Gonks

£15 230g

Colourful characters made of milk, white and dark Belgian chocolate.

Bryn the Welsh Dragon

£8.99 180g

Fuses together sweet milk chocolate with Welsh legend.

Make Your Own Chocolate Easter Egg

£14 300g

Plastic moulds, chocolate for melting and sweets for decoration.

Thorntons Unicorn Egg

£4.50 151g

Milk chocolate egg with unicorn decoration.

Easter activity printables

Perfect for when you’re out and about, when you need a break or when your kids need some downtime.

Peter Rabbit

Maze

Help Peter Rabbit find his lost chicks.

We’re Going on an Egg Hunt Activity Pack

Fun activity pack based on book.

Mr Bunny’s Chocolate Factory Maze

Can you help Mr Bunny find his chocolate eggs?

How to draw a chicken

See if you can draw a chicken using this activity sheet.

The Odd Egg: Colour by Numbers Follow the colour key to complete this scene.

Number Easter Egg Hunt

Colour the eggs, cut them out, then hide them around the house.

Make a Hungry Hen Headress

This hen-shaped headdress is a great alternative to bunny ears.

Pip & Henry Easter holidays eco activity pack

Easter crafts, games and activities.

Paddington’s Easter Egg Hunt

Activity Sheets

Fun Easter activities with everyone’s favourite bear.

Fabulous buggy-friendly walks

Our friends at The Outdoor Guide are passionate about making the great outdoors accessible to all. Check out their buggy-friendly walks.

River Ness & Ness Islands, Inverness

Experience a walk full of nature with some city sights along the banks of the River Ness, taking in Ness Islands. You may be at the gateway to the Highlandsbut you don’t need to go further for a lovely walk.

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War Memorial Park, Coventry

This 48.5 hectare park is just a stone’s throw from the centre of Coventry and offers buggy friendly pathways, open space for little ones to run free and a cafe to grab an ice cream. Make sure you take a moment to enjoy the Japanese Peace garden on your walk.

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Arundel Park, West Sussex

This lovely walk, just a short distance from the centre of Arundel, takes you into the West Sussex countryside. The boating lake at the start gets busy but you’ll soon feel like you’re miles away from anywhere.

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Cliveden House, Buckinghamshire

The National Trust managed grounds at Cliveden House are great for a buggy-friendly family walk. The Story Book Den is bound to capture the imagination of your little ones. Plus there’s the all-important cafe at the end of the trail for a well-earned cuppa and snack.

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Fabulous buggy-friendly walks

Our friends at The Outdoor Guide are passionate about making the great outdoors accessible to all. Check out their buggy-friendly walks.

Monsal Trail, Peak District

Following the old route of the Midland Railway Line, this walk takes you along one segment of the trail, which is all fully accessible - perhaps you’ll want to do more another day?

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Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire

The largest monastic ruin in the country and a designated World Heritage site, Fountains Abbey is a truly special place. The accessible paths are great for your buggies and there’s a great play area for little ones after your walk.

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Golders Hill Park Sensory Walk, London

This walk really is a delight for all the senses - the sound of bird song, the smell of the flowers, beautiful woodlands to see - and tasty cake at the end! What more could you possibly want?

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SW Coast Path, Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall

This is a great circular walk that offers views out across The Sound towards Plymouth. There’s also wide open spaces for your littles ones to run around and a beach for some rock pooling fun. During summer months, there’s also a lovely cafe serving delicious refreshments.

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Outdoor activities for spring

Spring is in the air! Time to choose an activity and head outdoors with the kids….

Go on a bluebell walk

Find your closest bluebell wood using this Wildlife Trust list.

Fly a kite

Learn how to fly a kite in just 3 minutes.

Spring stargazing

Top tips for spring stargazing from the National Trust.

Grow sunflowers

Grow these spectacular flowers easily with this kit. £5.59

Raise tadpoles at home

Learn how to care for tadpoles and raise them into frogs.

Build a den

Check out this handy guide from the Woodland Trust.

Spring scavenger hunt

The thrill of a treasure hunt combined with learning.

Grow butterflies

Watch the magic of a butterfly’s metamorphosis in your own home. £21.

Go paddling

Find a paddle-friendly route on a nearby canal or river.