Familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester 1Issue 96 September/October 2022 familiesonline.co.uk Manchester FREETakeMeHome BWS_Families_Banner_180x40.indd 1 2 17/08/2020 19_04_21 A more individual approach to education has never been more important. Whole School Open Day 5th November, 10am-2pm. Call today or visit bridgewater-school.co.uk/open day-2022 to register. HalfAutumnEducationfunterm IN THIS ISSUE
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Manchester2 Ellie’s parent goal planner OUTCUTANDKEEP ü
Early next year Head, Heart and Hands represent the three aspects of you that need equal attention. Write down each of these three words at the top of a column. List your daily activities under each heading. Typically, one of these columns will be shorter than the rest. Find a personalised goal that adds something to the shortest column!
By October half term
Have a family meeting to talk about household rules, consequences and Searchrewards.online for trips or activities that you could all do together. Book next year’s summer holiday.
Text three friends you haven’t see for ages and invite them around or arrange some fun, grown up nights out/or lunches for you and your friends.
Start Christmas planning; set budget, list presents.
Early next year
Have the talk: tell your employer or clients about any new skills you’ve gained in the last year and tackle tricky subjects like letting your employer know you’re keen to get promoted or informing your clients about price rises.
Print a blank monthly calendar for the family pinboard, ready to add any one-off events and holidays. Book dentist appointments and all haircuts for the year ahead.
By October half term Order or borrow any tools or materials needed for your first DIY jobs. Start the first job on the DIY list. Early next year Complete most of the jobs on the DIY list. Call in a decorator, handyman or gardener to finish any jobs left undone.
Arrange long distance trips to see family and friends.
Compile a rotating weekly meal plan for the term ahead. Schedule a weekly reminder for your food shopping order into your personal calendar. By October half term
Self Now
Home Now Declutter and clear the decks: bag up old clothes, toys and electricals and take them to a charity shop or recycling bin. Post any large or valuable items on Ebay or Facebook
As school re-opens and we settle back into routine, here’s a planner from writer and parent, Ellie Malt, designed to help everyone in the family focus on their annual goals. Ellie suggests pinning it up to keep everyone’s goals in sight!
Sign up to a class, group or activity. Search by area and activity using apps like Meet Up, Class Pass and Eventbrite. Buy the necessary kit or equipment for your activity.
Family Now Put term dates into your phone, calendar or planner for the whole Printyear. and pin up a weekly timetable for office hours, school timings, pick up and drop off arrangements, homework and clubs/activities (including your own).
Look on apps like UDEMY or YouTube for tutorials and webinars to develop your software skills. Many of these can be done at any time and are free. Post a link to the course in your calendar.
Refresh your social media and online profiles, update any pages that might be seen by a customer, recruiter or potential employer. Work not going well? Update your CV and test the water by posting it on a jobs website.
Try something new: it might be superinteresting or satisfyingly creative but remember that anything that fits your schedule can open the door to opportunities and friendships.
Early next year
Work Now
Which new qualification would get you that promotion at work? Courses run by colleges tend to start in the autumn so research and book now. By October half term
TakeMarketplace.aninventory of your house and garden and make a note of necessary home improvements. Prioritise the top three jobs and note the steps to achieve each one, who will take them and when. Pin up your lists where everyone can see them. Older kids can get involved too.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester 3 CONTENTS Contact us In this issue
@FamiliesMancMagFamiliesManchester 16.15.14.13.12.10.8.7.4.2.
Starting or going back to school can be challenging for children (and parents) so check out our Education section for some great articles that will help, including what to do if your child hates school and how to help your child learn times tables.
Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof. Karen Sykes Manchester is available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Greater Manchester. If you would like free copies for your organisation, please get in touch.
Editor
May/June competition winners Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list at https://bit.ly/MJrecipients Ellie’s goal planner for parents HalfWhat’sHolidaysClubsFamilyEducationlife&classesOntermscreen-free activities Autumn walks HalloweenWork activity wgs.org YEAR 3 TASTER MORNING THURS 6 OCTOBER WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN EVENTS THURS 3 & SAT 5 NOVEMBER If you wish to attend these events or be kept up to date on other opportunities to learn more about a Withington education please call 0161 249 3371 or email admissions@wgs.org wgs1937_where-girls-shine-130x180_v3-opendays.indd 1 22/08/2022 09:06 Karen
Families
Welcome Can you believe the kids are back at school already? It seems like just a moment since they were breaking up! We hope you had a fantastic summer. No doubt, some of you will be reluctant to get back to routine, whilst others will welcome it; either way, getting some hours back in your day is a great opportunity to make some plans and set goals for the coming months. We hope our goal planner will help with this.
Autumn can be a beautiful time of year for spending time outdoors so look for inspiration on where to enjoy some muddy walks around the UK when half term rolls around – presuming we have had some decent rain by then! And, if you want to keep your kids off screens as the nights draw in, check out our half term screen-free kids activities too.
editor@familiesmanchester.co.uk 01706 671664 Families
Finally, in this issue, we have tonnes of Action Heroes Sets to giveaway! Apply for these loveable mini toy sets for your child at familiesmag.co.uk/go. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer. Editor, Cheshire
There’s a Dog in My Brain by Caroline Green, illustrated by Rikin Parekh When Danny made a wish to stay home instead of going to a family wedding, he didn’t expect to end up trapped in the body of a dog. Meanwhile, Dudley the dog is off on the adventure of a lifetime. He might look like a normal 10 year old boy, but can he behave like one?
BrilliantEDUCATION
The Tindims of Rubbish Island by Sally Gardner, illustrated by Lydia Correy
Alien in the Jam Factory by Chrissie Sains, illustrated by Jenny Taylor Get ready for aliens, jam, doughnuts, snails, one dastardly villain and a brilliant kid fizzing with ideas! Young inventor Scooter and his alien buddy Fizzbee team up to outwit Daffy Dodgy in a hilarious new adventure.
Dragon Storm by Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Eric Deschamps and Ben Mantle Tomas can’t believe it when a mysterious stranger invites him to join a secret society and tells him that he has a very special power… he can summon his very own dragon! With a medieval setting and a strong dose of fantasy, this is the first in a thrilling new series.
Sarah Campbell is co-founder of Parrot Street Book Club (www.parrotstreet.com), an award-winning monthly subscription book club for children ages 5 to 14. Each subscription box includes a brand new book plus an activity pack inspired by that particular book.
The children of Wigley Primary love having Noodle the Doodle at school and are thrilled that he’s coming on the class trip to the seaside. But will Noodle be on his best behaviour or will the day end in chaos? Perfect for young dog-lovers.
The first in a new series exploring our impact on the environment. Meet Captain Spoons, Mug, Jug, Brew, Skittle and friends, all residents of Rubbish Island, which the inventive Tindims have built entirely from thrown away items.
The Marvellous Granny Jinks and Me by Serena Patel, illustrated by Selom Sunu When Jada Jinks finds a box of magic tricks in her granny’s flat, she uncovers her granny’s secret dream of becoming a magician. Inspired by the first black woman to be admitted to the Magic Circle, this is a fun, inclusive and magical story, with tricks!
Panda at the Door written and illustrated by Sarah Horne Pudding the Panda of Edinburgh Zoo really wants a family to take care of, just like her heroine, Mary Poppins. When 9 year old Callum is given a certificate to adopt a panda for his birthday, the two come together... and pandemonium ensues! Velda the Awesomest Viking and the Voyage of Deadly Doom by David MacPhail, illustrated by Richard Morgan Velda might be small but she is certainly mighty. Nothing will stop her from taking to the high seas to earn her place on the dragon ship Valkyrie, along with a wonderful, colourful cast of characters.
first chapter books for early readers
By Sarah Campbell
When your child is ready to move on from picture books, there are some wonderful first chapter books aimed at children ages 5 to 9. Many are highly illustrated, with stories that will last over the course of a few reading sessions. Here are some of our recent favourites, all available through your friendly local independent store or www.bookshop.org
Noodle the Doodle by Jonathan Meres, illustrated by Katy Halford
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Manchester4
What to do if your child ‘hates’ school
By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with insights, skills and tools to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
Poor chemistry with a teacher. Your child may complain that a particular teacher is ‘unfair’ or ‘mean.’ Remember, children know how to play a parent against a teacher. While acknowledging your child’s feelings, don’t automatically assume you’re getting the whole picture. Talk with the school to find out what’s really going Ratheron.than dismissing children’s worries, let them know they are heard. If they are struggling with a certain class, help them find ways to overcome their struggles.
If they have fallen out with their friends, listen to them and talk about what they are going through. Helping them to find their own solutions will build resilience and restore positive feelings about school.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester 5 EDUCATION “Excellent” Highest Inspection Rating Tel: 0161 456 9000 www.stockportgrammar.co.uk FOUNDED IN 1487 STOCKPORT GRAMMAR SCHOOL An independent school for children ages 3-18 years Assistance with fees available at 11+ and 16+ (means tested), academic and music scholarships SGS InspiresSGS Inspires Book online for open events Senior School Open Events Saturday 17th September Saturday 12th November Year 3, Nursery and Reception Open Event Saturday 17th September Sixth Form Open Event Tuesday 11th October School can be a source of support and community as much as learning. It provides new experiences, exposure to different opinions, a sense of achievement, peer friendships and relationships with trusted adults. However, it can also be a lot to cope with, particularly when starting a new academic year. Children usually settle in. But what do you do if this doesn’t happen and if your child says they ‘hate’ school? It’s important to recognise the problem and provide the right support. School ‘hatred’ can arise for various reasons: Anxiety. This most frequently occurs during times of family stress such as a change in the family situation or when a child is about to enter a new school or phase. It can manifest as separation anxiety. Trouble learning. For some children, the jump to higher academic levels and the sheer volume of information they need to digest can be overwhelming. Loneliness. Making new friends can be difficult and children often fall out for no obvious reason. This can have a direct effect on self-esteem and turn into a dislike of school. Children who always feel alone will often feign illness to avoid school and school-related activities. Bullying. If your child seems quiet and anxious, has few school friends or suddenly shows a drop in self-esteem, bullying may be a factor. Ask your child’s school to keep an eye out. If bullying is happening, the school will need to put strategies in place to support your child.
Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find the Facebook page edumateuk.
• Ask Alexa (or equivalent AI) to recite a times tables or play a multiplication song and ask your child to try to beat it;
• Write multiples on post-it notes or paper and make a game of aiming a ball at the correct answer;
tables by rote for weekly tests was a feature of most of our school days. For some, these tests would bring on the cold sweats while for others they were an opportunity to shine. But, of course, it isn’t about drills just for the sake of doing well in the tests; times table fluency can determine how easily children can grasp new mathematical concepts, such as fractions.
It’s very useful to observe and work out your child’s preferred learning style - visual, auditory or kinaesthetic - so you can guide them in the most effective direction.
Musicians from Stockport Grammar School recently headed to London to take part in a series of concerts.
EDUCATIONSGSmusicians
Concert Band, Jazz Band, Wind Orchestra and Junior Chamber Choir kicked off the concerts at St James’ Church, Piccadilly.
Lower Sixth student Lily Amet commented: ‘Being able to show a different community our talent, alongside having fun and enjoying ourselves, was really memorable. A highlight for me was the tour around the National Theatre which gave me an insight into how hard people work behind the stage and the effort that goes into making an amazing show.’
• Match the question with the correct multiple choice answer;
To help schools target support, the government have introduced a statutory multiplication check for Year 4 pupils, which tests them on whether they can recall their times tables up to 12 x 12. This test consists of twenty five questions and the children are expected to answer them within six seconds; however, there is no pass mark. What can parents do to help?
• Rhymes are great for tricky multiplication facts such as ‘wakey wakey, rise and shine, 7 x 7 is 49;’
By Zuzu LearningJordantimes
• Use online games such as Times Tables Rockstars (https://ttrockstars.com). These are great to help develop speed and accuracy;
More information at www.stockportgrammar.co.uk
Learning at home
Mastering times tables
Most households have scales, measuring jugs, tape measures, thermometers and clocks, all of which allow children to use and apply maths to real life. Raid your board games collections for dice and boards with numbers on. Children benefit from real life maths so include their toys as much as possible to help their understanding. For example, if they love cars, have them work out how many wheels there would be if they had three cars.
• Use counters to represent a calculation. For example, children would need six counters to represent 2 x 3 and 3 x 2. Many children are used to this representation from Reception when they are taught arrays.
Write multiples on post-it notes or paper and make a game of aiming a ball at the correct answer; Match the question with the correct multiple choice answer; Use counters to represent a calculation. For example, children would need six counters to represent 2 x 3 and 3 x 2. Many children are used to this representation from Reception when they are taught arrays.
There’s no need to buy specialised equipment when there are so many household items you can use for little or cost. For example, screw top bottle lids can be used for counting and also used as place value discs. Simply write numbers on them and children can use them for ordering numbers or using them on a place value chart.
The musicians wowed audiences on the bandstand at Alexandra Gardens with performances by Concert Band, Jazz Band, Wind Orchestra and Big Band and enjoyed a tour of the National Theatre before their final performance at St Paul’s Church in Covent Garden.
Grasping new mathematical concepts can be very tricky in the abstract form. What works here is to present the concepts in a concrete form instead. Using practical resources can help children develop a good number sense.
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Manchester6
Director of Music Mr Michael Dow said: ‘The concerts were all of an incredibly high standard, reflecting not just the wonderful talent of our pupils but also their hard work throughout the year.’
Showing your child how to spot patterns and connections also helps them to apply their understanding to more complex calculations and word problems. Try some of these ideas:
• Colour in the multiples on a 100 square;
amaze
Use online games such as Times Tables Rockstars (https://ttrockstars.com). These are great to help develop speed and accuracy; Ask Alexa (or equivalent AI) to recite a times tables or play a multiplication song and ask your child to try to beat it; Colour in the multiples on a 100 square; Rhymes are great for tricky multiplication facts such as ‘wakey wakey, rise and shine, 7 x 7 is 49;’
Sometimes divorcing spouses under-estimate the value of a pension pot wealth; priorities are elsewhere for example new homes and reassuring children and so the pension can take a back burner, especially for younger divorcing couples.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester 7
The recent research from the University of Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing and the Pensions Policy Institute, states that divorced men have pension savings on average five times more than divorced women.
“Pension sharing orders will enable the spouse with a lower value of pension savings to be allocated a proportion of their ex-partner’s pension pot. Often it is women who have left work to have children or taken part time jobs that lose out financially.
Financial arrangements surrounding divorcing couples can get complicated and only with a financial order can an ex spouse be prevented from claiming against you years later.
There is never an easy time to talk about money. Even though at Pearson we always recommend clients look closely at their finances, pensions, maintenance, potential inheritance and property, almost 65 percent of separating couples nationally think any financial links and obligations between them end at the same time as the divorce.
mag!digitalourfunMoreinSignupatfamiliesmag.co.uk/go Jan/Feb 2022 familiesonline.co.uk IN THIS ISSUE FamilyHealthActivitiesEducationfood FREE TAKEMEHOME FREE!IT’S Magazine FAMILY LIFE
In one well known case an ex made a claim against the former spouse 20 years after their divorce when their finances were on the up and they had made £millions in an energy business.
More info at www.pearsonlegal.co.uk
No fault divorce, DIY online divorce – both might seem appealing, potentially cheaper and possibly quicker, but don’t be deceived because when it comes to finances recent research indicates that it’s women who are losing out.
Now with no-fault divorces our solicitors are reminding clients to remember the importance of financial orders and the effective sharing of pension wealth.
“Over and above the court dates which have to be met and making sure the paper work filed properly, there is the overlooked financial orders and pension splitting arrangements to be sorted so that one half of the couple is not financially penalised when a marriage ends,” she added.
“Online and no-fault divorce have certainly made things easier but there are pitfalls and there is a reason professional and trained divorce solicitors are still preferable than going it alone for many people, but especially as we see in this case women,” said family lawyer, Emma Kendall.
In this case no arrangements had been made, but if a financial order from court had been obtained the arrangements are legally binding.
“A financial clean break is something we advise on and tackling financial issues contemporaneously rather than putting them off will save money and stress in the long run,” said Emma.
“In addition a client can move on, they can also protect any future assets and even those in modest circumstances can benefit, we never know what’s around the corner, maybe that lottery win or inheritance, or even business success, if no clean break financial order is in place further claims could still be brought years later.”
Why women could lose out in DIY divorce
But a good solicitor will sort out the pensions and make sure everything is equal, the last thing my clients want when they divorce is to face a ruinous financial future,” said Emma So why divorce can be costly if you don’t seek advice on finances?
“People get obsessed by the family home as the major marital asset to be divided on divorce whilst for many couples it is actually pensions that count for more,” said Emma.
Under the radar When researching options, keep in mind old favourites like cubs and brownies or the more unusual like sea cadets, fencing, photography and film making.
Judo Martial arts like Judo are especially suitable for the lively individualist, developing confidence, discipline, focus and fitness. They offer a constructive outlet for excess physical energy.
From painting to pottery, art and craft is great for exploring your child’s creative talents and for simply just getting messy outside of the home.
Familiesonline.co.uk
Yoga Ideal for the anxious or easily distracted, children learn to manage stress and develop concentration through breathing, awareness, meditation and healthy movement.
Kitchen fun If you have an aspiring chef, cooking classes are great fun and will teach basic life skills and healthy eating. Online options available.
The A to Z of clubs and classes
Exercise From toddlers up, children can get involved in regular, simple low-cost exercise classes like local mini-athletics and sports options or, junior park run clubs.
Gymnastics A demanding sport, requiring perseverance and discipline, gymnastics develops strength, speed, coordination, flexibility and balance. Mastering complex physical feats helps children face and overcome fears.
Horse riding Offering both adventure and responsibility, this surprisingly vigorous activity in the great outdoors teaches children about empathy and caring for another living creature. Interests Be led by your child’s interests when choosing an activity. If they enjoy doing an activity at home, they are more likely to commit to a regular class.
Performing arts
Virtual In the last two years, many providers have gone online, so if you can’t find a physical class locally, you’re sure to find something virtually.
Zumba A high energy combination of dance and exercise, these fun classes will get young ones moving with enthusiasm.
Children who steamimportantly,improvecommunicationsing/dance/act/play/learnskills,gainconfidence,academicperformanceandmostcanusetheseclassestoletoffandhavefun.
We’ve put together an A to Z to help guide your selection process.
Swimming Ever popular, swimming offers a host of benefits including cardiovascular exercise, improving strength, flexibility, stamina, balance and posture.
Football As well the most popular sport in the world, football is one of the most well-rounded, developing a host of physical, social and cognitive skills.
Languages By starting early, your child will learn faster and more easily; being bilingual improves problem solving skills, concentration and boosts brain power.
Out of school activities offer your child the opportunity to try their hand at something new, develop an existing interest, have fun, get exercise and socialise and make friends outside of school.
New Whatever their age, trying a new activity encourages a child to be adventurous and learn new skills. Age brings change, so keep looking for the next challenge.
Babies Music, movement and/or sensory classes are particularly suitable as they are designed to help your young baby’s social and physical skills develop. They are also a great opportunity to meet local parents.
Xtreme For the child who thrives on adrenalin and risk, consider rock climbing, tree top walking, abseiling, orienteering, circus, gokarting, trampolining or even Parkour.
Quiet For the naturally quiet or physically small, chess offers children as young as age 4 the chance to make friends and improve selfesteem. Junior clubs operate throughout the UK. Rugby Rugby is a great way for children to exercise while learning respect and how to work and function as part of a team.
Offers and trials Test your child’s interest in an activity with free taster days offered at the end of summer and free trials at the start of term.
Music
As well as the simple enjoyment, music classes are a great way to explore talent and develop abilities like patience and discipline.
Art and craft
Testimonials To ensure you choose the right class and get value for money, request testimonials from a provider, seek out other parents’ opinions and look online and on social media before signing your child up.
By Andrew Campbell
Coding As well as preparing them for the future, classes in coding and robotics teach children logical thinking, maths skills and complex problem solving.
Dance Not only great for physical health such as flexibility, co-ordination and strength, dance is also beneficial for mental health, as it helps with socialisation, as well as being creative and expressive.
Families Manchester8 CLUBS & CLASSES
By Dr Sohom Das
Panic attacks can cause hyperventilation, resulting in lightheadedness, fainting and even chest pains. In turn, this triggers the downward spiral of further anxiety. Encouraging your child to slow their breathing should relieve the physical symptoms and interrupt the cycle. Ask your child to breathe in through their nose for three seconds, hold their breath for three seconds, then exhale completely and fully for three seconds. This assists physiologically and can also act as a distraction. Once they become proficient at this, they can add it to their toolbox for the next time they are having a panic attack, even if you aren’t there.
Dr Sohom Das is a forensic psychiatrist and author of In Two Minds: Stories of Murder, Justice and Recovery from a Forensic Psychiatrist. He is also host of the YouTube channel A Psych for Sore Minds.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester 9 Apply for our great FREE giveaways!
The game with flowers and leaves which make little panda, Sam, sneeze! Suitable for two to four players. Ages 4+ Apply
Like all parents, I don’t like to see my own children suffering and, as a psychiatrist, my heart goes out to youngsters who come to me for help with panic attacks. However, there are proven strategies that can be used to help support loved ones in this situation. Here are five of my top tips. Educate your child Panic attacks can be crippling but knowledge is power. Young people can be anxious about a range of issues at once, some of which may not seem logical. For instance, many children feel self-conscious and believe that people are judging or laughing at them, despite having no evidence of this. When they have a panic attack, some children may even believe that they are dying. Tell them they are not alone. Clarifying that panic attacks are common and normalising them can help children feel less isolated, abnormal or damaged. Teach your child that despite how it feels, these episodes aren’t dangerous or life-threatening. Reassure them that panic attacks are finite; they will always end. Take charge of the situation
T&C’s apply HEALTH
Maker available10
www.familiesmag.co.uk/goatMarlo&Colekids’t-shirts
During a panic attack, your child will feel like they are losing control. It’s imperative to maintain equanimity and fight our impulses to show our own distress and anxiety. We need to model calmness by taking charge of the situation and not dramatising or over-medicalising it. Talk to your child in a gentle and reassuring voice and remind them that the panic attack will be over soon. This will make them feel safer and they might model your behaviour, which could quickly pull them out of the sinking quicksand of panic.
Sneezy Panda game Simply pop your favourite fruity drinks into the moulds and shape trays and place them in the freezer. Put the frozen shapes under Mr Frosty’s hat and turn his handle to create tasty, crushed ice treats! Ages 3+ Mr Frosty The Crunchy Ice
Cool UK made t-shirts from ethical babywear brand, Marlo & Cole, created to inspire the next generation’s love of music through unique, vibrant and fun illustrated designs. Printed with child-friendly inks on Oeko-Tex cotton. T-shirts for ages 2-3, 3-4 and 4-5. available10 available5
Helping your child with panic attacks
Breathe!
First stop Australia Simply bursting with incredible experiences for the family, from learning to surf at Bondi Beach to spending an afternoon hiking up the Sydney Harbour Bridge, there are so many wonderful varieties in Australia. One of my top tips is to head over to Western Australia, hire a campervan and explore - Redsands Campers (www.redsandscampers.com) is a fantastic option.
If you are dreaming of whisking your family away for a fun-packed winter holiday in the sun, there are so many wonderful options to choose from. Look no further for ideas! Here are some inspiring places, all offering an excellent choice of activities and properties for all family styles and budgets, with enough to keep the whole family entertained.
Tempting Tenerife
Adventures in Mexico
HOLIDAYSWinter getaways for families
Embark on a journey of discovery with this perfect introduction to the Indian Discoversubcontinent.exotic wildlife, ancient forts and fascinating culture. Chill out by the beach and spot turtles, cycle through peaceful villages or explore the national parks in a jeep safari. There’s so much to see in this beautiful country!
Fantastic Florida
Special St Lucia St Lucia is another special place for adventure seekers and nature lovers, as much as for those who just want to sit back and chill. This lush tropical island offers white sandy beaches which are perfect for sand castles and sipping cocktails at the end of the day. Splash Island, the Caribbean’s first open-water sports park, is a must for family fun too.
If you love hitting the slopes and are looking for a familyfriendly place for a ski trip, consider the ‘car free’ resort village of Saas-Fee. Why go? Aside from the picturesque backdrop, this smaller resort is pedestrianised, with nursery slopes walkable from the village, making it perfect for families with little ones.
A little closer to home is the pleasant warm-allyear island of Tenerife. With one of Europe’s best waterparks and plenty of sandy beaches, even the most active of families will be entertained. Go in February for the largest and most vibrant carnival outside of Rio!
Another European gem, just four hours away, with temperatures in the high teens even in January. From water parks to mountain sandyadventuresclimbingandstunningbeaches,there’sso much variety here. Older children may enjoy the exciting range of water sports too.
Variety in Cyprus
Ashley Lutz is a Travel Counsellor with seventeen years’ experience in creating inspiring journeys and long lasting memories and providing clients with expertise and peace of mind. Find out more at www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/ashley.lutz
By Ashley Lutz
The Florida coast offers something for everyone from water sports to snorkelling; then there’s the unforgettable bucket list experiences of Orlando. For a more relaxed family trip off the beaten track, Florida’s hidden beaches, such as St George Island, offer uninterrupted miles of peace and solitude.
Combining the bliss of the Caribbean and its friendly locals with full-on adventures, a family trip to Mexico could be just the ticket. You may immediately think of the sweeping beaches and delicious cuisine but there is so much more to it. From exploring ancient Mayan temples to zip lining through jungles or cooling off on the waterslides at Xcaret Park, there’s no danger of even the ‘coolest’ child being bored. Stunning Sri Lanka
Ski in the Swiss Alps
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Manchester10
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester 11 Christmas all in! ...with Away Resorts *Price based on 2-nights in Comfort accommodation at Sandy Balls Holiday Village in December. Correct at time of print. Forest of Light, Sandy Balls 04 Nov - 31 Dec 04TattershallWinterfest,LakesNov-31Dec Family getaways from £66* Book today at awayresorts.co.uk or call 03333 634189 HOLIDAYS Magazine Apply at familiesmag.co.uk/go Enter the Action Heroes universe!*whilestockslastStylesmayvaryT&CsapplyGet your FREE mini-figure set NOW* Mix & match body parts & worldsthemedbuildandCollectexpressionsfacialchange
Familiesonline.co.uk WHAT’S ON What's On
18 EscapeSep to Freight Island, Manchester Our Kids Social are hosting Happy Sundaze! Family fun at Escape to Freight Island! We invite you to come and run away with the circus and join us in seeing out the Summer in style! 10am -12pm with guaranteed fun for all happy-sundazewww.ourkids.social/events/ages.
24 FamilySep Bushcraft Day Valley Farm OWL CIC, Oldham Road, Ashton Enjoy being outdoors together on this fun day of fire lighting, campfire cooking, shelter building and much www.libertyfarm.co.ukmore.
Tatton Park The Sorcerer Returns for a Wizards Gathering and The Pumpkin Patch. Gather friends and family for a Wizards Gathering at The Old Hall then down to the Farm to meet all your Farmyard favourites and then it’s off to search for your perfect www.tattonpark.org.uk/eventspumpkin.
Wizards’OctGathering
17-18 SuperheroesSep Universe! Cockfields Farm, Ashton Under Lyne Join Thor, Spiderman, Captain America, Black Panther & Captain Marvel for an Amazing Superhero Day out. Our Avengers will be here for Meet and Greet Sessions throughout the day. Avenger Meet and Greets are included in your farm admission tickets and include our Potato Picking avengers-universewww.cockfields.co.uk/events/event.
Listings for all the family
8-30 PumpkinOct picking! Cockfields Farm, Ashton under lyne Grab a Wheelbarrow and head onto the Pumpkin Patch to Pick the Perfect Halloween Pumpkin, Take it along to the Spooky Carving Cave and create a masterpiece and leave all the mess with pumpkinswww.cockfields.co.uk/events/us.
10-11 PeppaSepPig Best Day Ever Lowry Theatre, Salford Peppa Pig is excited to be going on a special day out with George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig – it’s going to be her best day ever! The Peppa Pig live show is packed full of songs, games and laughter, it really is the best day ever for Peppa Pig peppa-pigs-best-day-everwww.thelowry.com/whats-on/fans!
27-30 GhostOctTrains at East Lancs Railway, Bury Terrifying tricks and terrific treats are waiting for the whole family on the ELR this October, or at least those that are brave enough to climb aboard one of our eerie Halloween Ghost ghost-trainsevents-activities/halloween-www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/Trains!
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.
A magical circus experience for all the family, including jugglers, acrobats, magic, high wire, the wheel of death and a whole bunch more colourful acts. To book visit https://circus-zyair.co.uk
Throughout Sep-Oct Nature and Animal Activities Valley Farm OWL CIC, Oldham Road, Ashton under lyne Keep an eye on our website to see dates for bushcraft, nature and animal days. Fun activities for all ages. www.libertyfarm.co.uk
10-11 Sep Be Our Guest! Cockfields Farm, Ashton under lyne Belle & Beast will be joining us this September for some Special be Our Guest Meet & Greet Sessions down on the Farm. Its included in your all day ticket price too!! Lots to our-guestwww.cockfields.co.uk/events/be-do.
Alongside our digital Storytime Sessions – When Animals Could Talk by Ruth Awolola, they’re unning family-friendly workshops so if you’re looking to get crafty and creative, these free dropin workshops will focus on storytelling and story-making and will encourage young children to develop their own stories. Workshops will take place at Central Library Manchester – Mon 24 Oct, 2-4pm, Longsight Library and Learning Centre – Wed 26 Oct, 2-4pm and Powerhouse Library – Thu 27 Oct, https://homemcr.org/whats-on11am-1pm.
29 StablesOct Country Club, Bury Join a spooky spectacular Family Party. Adults £22 / Children £15.00 Under 2’s free This includes an Adults and Childrens buffet, childrens entertainment and DJ. And a best dressed family-halloween-partyseasonal-event/the-stables-https://lavenderhotels.co.uk/competition.
1 BackNov To The Future! Forum Theatre, Stockport Join us for some light refreshments and a great comedy movie! Book via The Box Office on Box Office: 0333 666 3366
15-26 ManchesterSep Food & Drink Festival Cathedral Gardens, Manchester Food and drink related events taking place throughout Manchester. For more info www.foodanddrinkfestival.comvisit
5-9 CircusOctZyair at Heaton Park
The Harry Potter Experience is a nighttime woodland trail experience filled with magical creatures and wizarding wonders from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. Once the sun sets explore the sounds, lights, and special effects that will bring the magic of the Wizarding World to life. Guests will also be able to enjoy a wide range of delicious food and drinks at the village! Located in the beautiful Cheshire woodland at Arley Hall & Gardens, this nighttime trail has been created by awardwinning theatrical designers and experiential creators. hpforbiddenforestexperience.comwww. 18-31 GandeysOct Circus Spooktacular Trafford Centre -%20manchester/eventscircus%20-%20spooktacular%20en-GB/shows/gandeys%20www.quaytickets.com/gandeys/ 22-28 Oct Z Arts, Hulme Z-arts is invaded by life-sized Aliens, Zombies and Monsters, courtesy of children’s author and illustrator Aaron Blecha. Beam aboard an alien spaceship, take a photo amongst the monster mayhem and be part of a zombie family, or take part in an illustration workshop with Aaron himself. Book at http://z-arts.org 22-30
Forbidden Forest Experience Arley Hall
24-27 HOME,OctManchester
Sat 10 Sep Fun Dog Show Tatton Park Ten novelty classes to enter, including Cutest Puppy, Waggiest Tail and Golden Oldie, plus a fun agility course at this year’s fun Dog Show at the www.tattonpark.org.ukfarm.
15 HarryOctPotter
24 HocusOct Pocus in concert! Bridgewater Hall, Manchester
11 Make,Sep Do and Disco Victoria Baths, Manchester Our Kids Social are hosting a Make, Do and Disco event. Check out their website for details and to book. make-do-disco-victoria-bathswww.ourkids.social/events/
Sun 30 Oct Arley Hall, Cheshire Run by Sneaky Experience you and your little spook-sleuths are invited on a hilarious supernatural expedition with immersive storytelling, magic, dancing, games and fun for the whole family this Halloween – to book tickets visit sneakyexperience.digitickets.co.ukhttps:// 30 Children’sOct Halloween Party! Alma Lodge Hotel, Stockport A Themed Afternoon Tea with a Children’s Disco. Adults £17.50/Children 3-11 £11/Under 3 £5. Contact reception on 0161 483 4431 or email youralmalodgehotel.commeetingsandevents@toreservetable.
The iconic Disney film “Hocus Pocus” will be presented live in concert for the first time in the UK. The perfect Halloween treat, Hocus Pocus in Concert will feature a screening of the complete film with Emmy®winning composer John Debney’s musical score performed live to the spooky classic concert-241022whats-on/hocus-pocus-in-www.bridgewater-hall.co.uk/film.
Families Manchester12 WORK
Art and craft
By Isabell Fisher
This doesn’t need to be overly complicated. Often keeping it simple is far better than creating something elaborate. Try making a paper boat and see how far it travels or create tealight holders out of old jam jars by gluing on pieces of tissue paper. These also make lovely presents for grandparents.
Screen-free rainy day activities
It’s important that children are tech-savvy but there is very little evidence that screentime contributes to a child’s cognitive ability. Screens are so appealing because of their continually changing content so any activities that we attempt at home with the kids need to be equally appealing to little hands, eyes and brains. Here are a few activities that are easy to set up if you need to keep the kids entertained this half term or you’re stuck at home during a rainy weekend. You probably have most of what you need at home already.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester 13 HALF TERM
Baking Baking shortbread and scones is simple enough for inexperienced bakers to try and hopefully they will taste great! Baking bread is also surprisingly simple and you and your children can have lots of fun creating different animals out of the dough to then bake in the oven.
Choose something to be the treasure, hide it and then create a map for your kids to follow. Make it more interesting (and last longer) by having the map lead your little pirates to different locations where each location’s ‘treasure’ is a clue to the next location. To make the map look more ‘authentic,’ scrunch up the paper and stain it with a damp teabag.
This is a fun way for kids to learn about design and teamwork. All you need is a piece of paper, some pens, some counters (maybe toy figures), some dice and some rules. Involve your children in working out how the game works and create and decorate your board before playing!
Painting Children love to paint but the mess can fill many parents with dread. Instead of using poster paint, try using watercolour paints which are easier to clean up. To change things up, get the kids painting on coffee filters, a canvas or ice cubes.
Playdough
Design a board game
Boosted books
Easy experimentsscience There are lots of easy science experiments that can be tried at home with household items and they encourage kids to ask questions, make predictions and understand the world around them. Try making a lava lamp with water, food colouring and oil in a jar. Add an effervescent tablet and watch what happens!
This is a versatile toy but if the smell and texture of big-branded playdough is something you’re not keen on, there are some wonderful options for soft and scented playdough that doesn’t leave a greasy residue. Just check that the playdough has been UKCA tested before buying.
Reading to your kids is great but don’t limit the experience to sitting on the sofa. If the book is set in a cave, evict the vacuum cleaner from under the stairs and issue everyone with head torches! If you’re reading a desert adventure, create a Bedouin tent using some sheets and your clothes horse. Isabell Fisher is co-founder of Little Hands Learning, an educational and eco-friendly subscription box for children ages 3 to 6. For more ideas, visit www.littlehandslearning.co.uk/activities
Treasure hunt
Ham House and Garden
Stowe
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens Ham House and Garden Stowe Old Sarum Old Sarum
The structure, otherwise known as the Iron Age Hillfort of Old Sarum, was first built around 400BC. For an experience like no other, wrap up warm and embark on a muddy walk to remember for years to come.
The Welsh countryside is home to a multitude of walks. To get started, visit Brecon Beacons National Park (www.breconbeacons.org).
Last (but certainly not least) is the Seven Sisters Country Park (www. sevensisters.org.uk) in East Sussex. If you’re eager to visit the seaside, this stretch of coastline is the place for you.
The Gritstone Trail, which runs from Disley to Kidsgrove, travels through Tegg’s Nose. The country park also has a tearoom you can enjoy at the beginning or the end of your walk.
If we get decent rain during the autumn, these walks will also be delightfully muddy! And what child can resist a muddy puddle?
Tegg’s Nose Country Park Tegg’s Nose Country Park (www.teggsnose.co.uk) in Cheshire is teeming with trails and families of all ages can enjoy exploring the grassy fields.
Brecon Beacons National Park
A sight to behold, Ham House (www.nationaltrust.org.uk) is a seventeenth-century manor in Surrey.
Morden Hall Park
The South Downs National Park spans one hundred miles but you’re able to walk a fraction of the distance and come across a host of wildlife. Instantly recognisable, the chalk cliffs offer the perfect backdrop for your adventure.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Yorkshire is home to some of the most beautiful country walks in England, including Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens (www.nationaltrust.org.uk).
The whole family can enjoy a walk through Ham Gardens. From building birdhouses to playing in the Family Tasting Garden, the grounds offer lots of fun activities for children of all ages.
Seven Sisters Country Park
AUTUMNFamily-friendly walks for autumn
The great British countryside is full of stunning walks that are fun for the whole family. Here are ten examples that are suitable for getting the whole family outdoors. Why not have a day out this half term or take a short break near one of them?
To explore the muddy countryside and learn about English history, you can take your family on a walk to Old Sarum (www. english-heritage.org.uk) in Wiltshire.
There are miles of walking paths on offer, from the Ripon and Fountains Abbey walk to the Lost Spa trail. Regardless of where you choose to walk, if it rains the grass will be green and the hills will invariably be muddy.
Morden Hall Park (www.nationaltrust. org.uk) is an outdoor oasis in London. This is a great place to escape the concrete jungle with the whole family. There are even cafes along the way. As well as this, children under 5 can take part in the Park Explorers programme and enjoy story-led activities.
There are lots of fun activities to do, from exploring Cantref Adventure Farm to running around the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Definitely a full day of fun….
Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens
In addition to Old Sarum, Stowe (www.nationaltrust.org.uk) is another walk in Buckinghamshire in the south of TheEngland.countryside is breath taking and the grounds of Stowe are no different. You can stroll around the lake and through the forest. Families are also allowed to walk their dogs as long as they are on a lead.
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Manchester14
So get your outdoor gear on, because you’re about to have a tonne of fun!
Start tapping into all your senses. How does it sound? How does it feel? What does it smell like? What does it look like? How do you imagine things taste? What does the movement around you feel like outside your body and inside it?
How do you spark your creativity when you are feeling uninspired or busy? For me, creativity is as essential as breathing for a happy and fulfilling life. But when and how do you get inspired?
Mindful walking in nature has taken a step further with the introduction of forest bathing workshops.
The Japanese government thought the benefits were so great that they introduced it as a national health programme.
Nurtured by nature
When you come back from your walk, stay in the refreshed zone.
Forest bathing, or ‘shirrin-yoku’, was first developed in the 1980s following studies by the Japanese government. The benefits are said to be numerous. Results showed that two hours of mindful exploration in a forest or wood could reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol levels and improve concentration and memory.
In another study, researchers in Finland found that urban dwellers who strolled for as little as twenty minutes through an urban park or woodland reported significantly more stress relief than those who strolled in a city centre.
As we spend more time indoors and online, this is a timely reminder of the value of stopping the scroll and spending twenty minutes walking in nature.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Manchester 15 WORK
When you are in the rut of daily chores, creative inspiration can feel non-existent. Perhaps current news events or the relentlessness of family life are making you feel stuck. Creative blocks can arise for many different reasons; maybe a work issue, fear of failure or self-doubt are standing in your way. Being creatively blocked can feel incredibly frustrating, timeconsuming and ultimately, can lead to a lack of motivation.
The simple act of putting one foot in front of the other and the rhythmic cadence of your steps can get you into the magical ‘flow’ state that many artists, writers and creators talk about.
Start to notice the woodland and nature around you. Even towns have leafy gardens and birdcalls when you pay enough attention!
On top of this, we also know that exercising in nature is not only good for our physical health but also our mental health. By boosting mood and energy, you are helping to improve your Letcreativity.nature
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or creatively blocked, take yourself out for a mindful walk in nature and see what inspiration you can bring back to your desk.
By Claire Winter
Taking inspiration from nature
If you are distracted, take a moment to ground yourself and connect to your environment. Stand still, root your feet into the ground and take three deep breaths.
Write down all your creative thoughts straightaway to give yourself inspired starting points.
Claire Winter is a journalist, ICF coach, speaker and awardwinning podcaster who loves being out in nature. She works to help women connect back to nature, ignite their creativity and share their stories. Read more at www.creatrixjourney. com or follow @thecreatrixjourney on Instagram.
nurture you! Your over-thinking mind will clear when you take a walk, consciously seeking out greenery and clouds, listening to the sounds around you and breathing fresh air.
Mindful walking
Set out with a small notebook or use voice notes on your phone to record any insights. If you have to take your phone with you, switch it to do not disturb mode and ignore the screen.
Continue to notice your breathing. Is it slow or fast? How has it changed since you started the walk?
Here’s the science bit: trees release a chemical called phytoncides which have an antimicrobial effect on human bodies; this can, in turn, boost the immune system.
While walking on a treadmill can work, walking in the great outdoors is more powerful to clear the mind, get inspired and come up with new creative ideas.
While creative blocks can happen to everyone sometimes, there are ways to overcome them. A powerful tool to help you get creative is spending time in nature. Walk it out Simply going for a walk is surprisingly effective. A study from Stanford University found that walking boosted creativity by sixty percent, compared to subjects who were sedentary. The great German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche claimed that all great ideas came from walking. So, what is it about walking that helps our brains switch into a creative mode?
each
bend. Step 1:
Step
spare
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Manchester16
out. ü Paint brush ü Scissors ü Black paint ü Wiggly eyes ü Cardboard tubes Make spiders for Halloween! Cutoutandkeep Watch out! Your spider is carefulcomplete…..nowitdoesn’trunoff!
It’s easy and fun to create your own decorations for Halloween! So get crafty with the kids. You’ll be able to gather what you need from around your home and from your recycling bin and paint, create and decorate to make your own family of spiders in no time. Your child will love developing new skills as they explore painting and sticking. And, under your supervision, they will develop fine motor skills as they practise with scissors. have all eight legs, fold each leg in half to First paint the cardboard tubes black. 2: Allow the black paint to dry thoroughly. Once dry, give the spider eyes so it To make the legs, start by cutting five slits about one centimetre apart on each side of the tube just over halfway up. The slits will make four spider legs on each side of the tube. There will be a piece of tube on side which you will need to cut
can see! Step 3:
You will Instructions:need:Step4: Once you
