FamiliesWarwickshireNovDec2019

Warwickshire

IN THIS ISSUE

Christmas Shows | Pantos | Where's Santa? | Days Out

Issue 50 November/December 2019

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01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 1

Childminder training & resources

Supporting childminders across the country

met when I was starting my Ofsted application. You have been nothing short “ We of amazing. Everyone I’ve spoken to has been so passionate and personable. ” NEWLY REGISTERED CHILDMINDER

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With over 25 years’ experience we can offer parents information about what to expect, including: - Advice on selecting a childminder - Children to childminder ratios - Legal requirements and much more

For more info call 01536 210685

2 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

or

visit www.childmindinguk.com

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Issue 50 | November/December 2019 | Families Warwickshire

In This Issue 4 Snippets 5 Education 10 Clubs & Classes 11 Competition 12 Performances & Pantos 13 Where's Santa?

14 What's On

13

Contact details Claire Jones on 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Cover by Liittle Beanies Photography www.littlebeanies.co.uk

Next issue: January/February 2020 Booking deadline: Monday 2 December

All content ©2019 Families Warwickshire Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine for parents, covering Stratfordon-Avon and Warwick Districts with around 21,000 copies. Towns covered include Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, Leamington Spa and Kenilworth, plus Studley, Alcester, Bidford, Henley-in-Arden, Wellesbourne, Welford-on-Avon, Shipston-on-Stour, Southam and lots of the smaller villages in between.

Families Warwickshire 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 Warwickshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Warwickshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Warwickshire; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Advertise with us and reach 40,000+ local parents and carers

Parties

Grandma’s Magic Blanket Jacqueline Hall has spent 20 years working in primary schools. Although she works in the school office, she has spent time reading and working with children. In March this year, she suddenly had the inspiration to write a book. The idea came from a blanket she had recently knitted using up all her bits of wool. Suddenly she had a story Grandma’s Magic Blanket.

In the story, Daisy’s grandma knitted a wonderful, colourful blanket which Daisy and Fidget (Grandma’s cat) discovered was magic by pulling on a coloured thread of wool. They go off on lots of adventures depending on which colour thread they pull from the blanket. There are now five books in the series and each one takes them on a colourful adventure.

In addition to Grandma’s Magic Blanket, Jacqueline has also started a series called Saving the Planet. The first book, How They Cleaned the Ocean, tells how the sea creatures got their own back on the humans for throwing plastic into the ocean.

Jacqueline is currently writing How They Saved the Rainforest which will be published very soon.

The books can be purchased at Kenilworth Books or online at Amazon.

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Beautifully decorated indoor tipi and outdoor bell tents for children’s and adults’ parties. www.boutiquepartytenthire.co.uk M: 07903 670620

Deck Your Halls at Stratford Garden Centre Many thanks to Stratford Garden Centre in Clifford Chambers who kindly let us use their fabulous Christmas shop to shoot this issue’s front cover photo. With stunning displays and beautiful decorations, you can find everything you need to make your home look really festive. As well as decorations and lights, you can also buy your tree here – real or artificial.

On 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 23 & 24 of December, have Breakfast with Santa! Join Mrs Claus and the elves whilst you enjoy breakfast and get ready for a special visit from the man himself! www.stratfordgardencentre.co.uk

UDIO ANIMATION ST hday Parties rt

Workshops & Bi

.uk nimate.coe.c www.letsa o.uk llo@letsanimat

0797 3354567

he

Best Birthday Party Event Ever

07956 624376 www.PopStarParty.rocks

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 3

Parenting

New Website for First-Time Dog Owners

Action-packed childcare this

Christmas Holiday

If you’re thinking of getting a dog, or have just become a new pup parent, take a look at Our Family Dog, a new website which contains lots of helpful tips and advice for first-time dog owners.

North Leamington School Leamington Spa CV32 6RD

New dog owners can often feel overwhelmed with the responsibility of caring for their new pet - similar to the experience of having a baby. This includes: • The challenges of toilet training • The sleepless nights that come with sleep training a new puppy • Teaching a dog to be left alone, or coping with a dog with separation anxiety Our Family Dog offers a series of dog care guides to support new dog owners through these early challenging stages of dog ownership. There is also information about how to find the best dog care services - such as dog trainers, doggy day care and dog walkers - and stories written by other dog owners, who share their experiences of all things related to pup parenting.

Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd January Open from 8am-6pm

Book before 5pm on Friday 13th December

Ofsted registered EY476056

Early Bird Offer

£21 per day 8am-4pm

For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 01926 298 178

www.ourfamilydog.co.uk

Ollie Coaching Belinda is an Emotional Wellbeing Coach who works with children to help them learn about their emotions and how to control them, building resilience and emotional wellbeing in children (and adults). The sessions are fun, simple and brilliantly effective. Ollie Coaching provides the education and support children need to overcome problems and challenges. It empowers them to understand, express and manage their emotions and also gives the adults around them tools to support both their child and themselves. Ollie Coaching helps children who are anxious or have challenging behaviour, helping them leave unwanted emotional baggage behind.

For a FREE initial session or FREE School Assembly visit www.helpmychild.co.uk

Measles: One in Seven 5 Year Olds Not Protected One in seven 5 year olds may not be protected against potentially life threatening measles, Public Health England (PHE) has warned.

PHE has revealed that about 30,000 children may have started primary school with no protection against measles, mumps and rubella, while 90,000 may have had only the first of the two vaccines necessary for protection.

There were 230 cases of measles in England in the first quarter of 2019, many linked to visiting European countries during holiday periods. As a result of these outbreaks, the UK has now lost its measles-free status, just three years after the virus was eliminated.

PHE is urging all parents to check their child’s Red Book to make sure there is a record of two MMR doses and the 4-in-1 booster vaccine. If not, parents should contact their GP practice to arrange any further vaccinations. www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/nhs-vaccinations-and-whento-have-them

4 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

It’s Story Time ‘Magical World of Stories’ are fun and engaging sessions for 2 to 5 year olds that will capture children’s imaginations and take them on an interactive story adventure week after week. Your little ones will leave not only loving a new story and singing new songs but also with the craft they have created.

A teacher for 15 years, Jen is passionate about books and loves enabling children to use their imaginations to explore a story and helping children to learn through play. Her sessions are fun and interactive, with lots of silly voices and chances for the children to move around and be creative.

They are a great way of introducing the fun of stories and reading to young children whilst enhancing their listening, concentration, confidence and social skills. The sessions include lots of props, boundless energy and enthusiasm, and guarantee the grown-ups will enjoy joining in just as much as the children! www.facebook.com/magicalworldofstories

Empowering Young Girls Nicola Locke is a creative and idealistic youth coach for young girls. With over thirty years of experience working with children and teenagers, she is passionate about the wellbeing of young girls. She is a qualified cognitive behavioural therapist who works with clients one-to-one and in groups.

The group workshops have been developed to help girls build confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem and are aimed at year 6 girls and 11 to 13-year olds. Nicola provides girls with the tools they need for life, helping them to build confidence in an environment that can be desperately competitive and demanding. www.nicolalocke.com

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Education

All Aboard The Cycle Bus Pedal-powered parents at St Augustine’s School in Kenilworth are creating Warwickshire’s first school cycle bus to help local children cycle safely to school. A cycle bus is when lead cyclists pick up children along the way and the group cycles to school together. The concept has already been successfully adopted in West London, Oxford, Glasgow and Galway in Ireland.

Twenty children and their parents joined the inaugural ride in October, together with Kenilworth Town Councillors who showed their support for the initiative.

The idea for the school cycle bus for St Augustine’s School came from parents Adam and Aurélie Tranter, who run Fusion Media, a cycling-focused communications agency, working with brands such as Brompton Bicycle, Evans Cycles and the Tour de France. The Kenilworth-based parents

started by cycling their 5-year-old twin boys to school using an electric cargo bike; soon other parents asked them how they could get involved in cycling to school.

Nationally, just 2% of children cycle to school, many citing a lack of safe cycling infrastructure and a high volume of traffic as reasons for not taking to two wheels.

Beehive Hill, the road outside St Augustine’s School, is set to receive a makeover from Warwick County Council to address school safety concerns, including a 20mph speed limit during school hours and traffic calming measures.

The St Augustine’s School Cycle Bus will continue to run after a successful pilot and it’s hoped other parents at schools in Warwickshire will take up the concept.

Garden Room with a decked area, a sunken sand pit, a glazed roof and retractable folding doors that open up to the woods behind.

The makeover has also seen improvements to the front nursery playground and the nursery children are now enjoying regular visits to the newly opened woodland at the back of the main school. The ‘back to nature’ makeover means that the children now enjoy outdoor learning experiences in three very different settings.

Little Cracker’s ‘Back to Nature’ Makeover Little Crackers Nursery, at Crackley Hall School, has been transformed with a new natural look in its spacious rooms that includes new furniture, flooring, decoration and a completely new indoor/outdoor

To celebrate the new look, Little Crackers has adopted new animal names to reflect the ‘back to nature’ theme, with the Terrific Twos becoming Dormice, the Thrilling Threes changing to Hedgehogs and the Fabulous Fours transforming into Badgers. www.littlecrackers.co.uk

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Premarital Agreements Do I Need One? Are you thinking of getting married? Have you been married before and have assets from the previous divorce settlement?

Are you bringing more to the marriage financially than your partner, for example, are you a partner in a business?

You may need to think about having a Prenuptial Agreement drafted to protect your assets in the event of the marriage failing. That’s not very romantic but you don’t want to lose your financial security if the relationship doesn’t turn out to be what you expected.

Please make an appointment to discuss but do it early as an agreement has to be signed at least 28 days before the wedding!

*Free home visits.

Family Law Advice

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Prenuptial Agreements are very common in other countries and here in the UK, we are starting to catch up. Whilst there is not a specific law governing them, the Courts are placing more weight on the decisions made by the couple when they entered the marriage and how they wanted things settled.

People first, lawyers second.

Practical

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your child’s antonym and synonym knowledge and achieve a higher 11+ score A comprehensive vocabulary resource with child-friendly definitions and a list of synonyms

Bespoke

Estate Planning

Please contact Alison Rolf of Davidson Mahon Solicitors on 01926 357555 or email alison@davidsonmahon.co.uk. Fixed fee interviews are available so that you can information gather allowing you can to make informed decisions going forward.

26/07/2019 18:34

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 5

Education

Step Up for Safe Streets 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. Every 20 minutes, someone is killed or seriously injured on a British road, yet each of these tragedies is preventable.

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

New Home for Bablake Pre Prep Exciting times are ahead for Bablake Pre Prep as it opened its doors in September at its new location - The Grange on Brownshill Green Road, Coventry.

The country house is not far from the main Bablake site and has been transformed to provide a stunning new learning environment. It is set within six acres of wooded grounds, forming a spectacular backdrop to the new school. Woodland walks and an orchard make up part of the Forest School and the ‘Magic Tree’ is a special hideaway place, centred around an ancient yew.

This is an exciting time for staff, pupils and parents. Mr Neil Price, Bablake Junior and Pre Prep Headmaster said, “We are thrilled to have found the perfect location for the school. The house and additional buildings are ideal. One of the most exciting elements is the outdoor space that contributes so

much to the setting and provides wonderful play and learning spaces for the children.”

“This is a great step forward for Bablake Pre Prep and reflects our goal to provide the very best education from Early Years to Year 2.”

Bablake’s Head of Pre Prep, Mrs Tracy Horton said, “This move further enhances our reputation for providing a safe, happy, aspirational and friendly learning environment for our children. This is a really exciting development for everyone.”

At Bablake Pre Prep parents, pupils and staff work in harmony to ensure successful learning takes place. There is a family atmosphere where children are best prepared to take full advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead. www.bablake.com

• Single sex education from Year 3 – Year 13 • Stunning new school • Sunday Times School of the Year King’s High School and Warwick Preparatory School An Independent Day School and Nursery Girls and Boys from 3 to 7, Girls from 7 to 18

• Excellent transport links • Tours of our new school welcome all year

Banbury Road, Warwick, CV34 6YE 01926 494485 | www.warwickprep.com | www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk

6 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

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bablake

Education

junior & pre prep

open morning Saturday 25th January 2020 10am-12pm visit us at both sites Bablake Junior School Bablake Pre Prep www.bablake.com familiesonline.co.uk

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 7

Education

Assessment Days Year 3 – Tuesday 14 January Year 5 – Wednesday 15 January To confirm your attendance: www.warwickprep.com/eventbooking admissions@warwickprep.com 01926 491545 @warwickprep An Independent Day School and Nursery for boys aged 3-7 and girls aged 3-11

Independent Schools – Contact Details and Open Days Arnold Lodge

Leamington Spa (Ages 4-18) T: 01926 778050 E: info@arnoldlodge.com www.arnoldlodge.com Thurs 28 Nov, 9am-10am: Reception Coffee Morning Tues 3 Dec, 9am-10am: Reception Stay ‘N’ Play (for 2020 entrants)

Bilton Grange

Rugby (Ages 4-13) T: 01788 810217 E: admissions@biltongrange.co.uk www.biltongrange.co.uk

The Kingsley School

Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery

Kenilworth T: 01926 514444 E: post@crackleyhall.co.uk www.crackleyhall.co.uk Thurs 21 Nov, 7pm-8pm: Nursery and Reception Open Evening

Crescent School

Rugby T: 01788 521595 E: post@crescentschool.co.uk www.crescentschool.co.uk Tues 19 Nov, 7pm-8pm: Nursery and Reception Open Evening

Leamington Spa (Ages 3-18) T: 01926 421368 E: registrar@kingsleyschool.co.uk www.thekingsleyschool.co.uk Fri 8 Nov, 9.30am-12pm: Prep School Open House

The Croft Preparatory School

PREP AND JUNIOR SCHOOLS

Henley-in-Arden T: 01564 792427 E: helen.everley@henleymontessori.co.uk www.henleymontessori.co.uk

Bablake Pre Prep

Coventry T: 024 7622 1677 E: bablakepreprep@bablakejs.co.uk

Bablake Junior School

Coventry T: 024 7627 1260 E: jhmsec@bablakejs.co.uk www.bablakejuniorschool.co.uk

Stratford-upon-Avon T: 01789 293795 E: office@croftschool.co.uk www.croftschool.co.uk

Henley Montessori Primary and Merrydays Montessori Nursery

King Henry VIII Prep School Coventry T: 024 7627 1307 E: admissions@khps.co.uk www.khviii.co.uk

8 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Stratford Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon T: 01789 297993 E: secretary@stratfordprep.co.uk www.stratfordprep.co.uk Thurs 21 Nov, 12pm-2pm & 6pm8pm: Open Day

Warwick Preparatory School Warwick T: 01926 491545 E: admissions@warwickprep.com www.warwickprep.com Tues 19 Nov, 1.30pm-3pm: Open Afternoon

Warwick School

Princethorpe College

Rugby T: 01926 634201 E: admissions@princethorpe.co.uk www.princethorpe.co.uk

Warwick School

Warwick T: 01926 776400 E: enquiries@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org

King’s High

Warwick T: 01926 494485 E: enquiries@kingshighwarwick.co.uk www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk

Warwick T: 01926 776400 E: enquiries@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org Tues 19 Nov, 1.30pm-3pm: Open Afternoon

SENIOR SCHOOLS Bablake Senior School

Coventry T: 024 7627 1200 E: info@bablake.coventry.sch.uk www.bablake.com

King Henry VIII Senior School Coventry T: 024 7627 1111 E: admissions@khviii.net www.khviii.co.uk

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Education A RNOLD L ODGE S CHOOL IS A LEADING CO - EDUCATIONAL SCHOOL IN THE HEART OF L EAMINGTON S PA FOR BOYS & GIRLS AGED 4-18 YEARS .

RECEPTION COFFEE MORNING

We find their smiles

(for Reception 2020 - 2022 entrants)

28 TH

T HURSDAY N OVEMBER 2019

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

STAY ‘N’ PLAY SESSION (for Reception 2020 entrants)

T UESDAY 3 RD D ECEMBER 2019 9:00AM - 10:00AM

T EDDY B EARS ’ P ICNIC (for Reception 2020 - 2022 entrants)

THURSDAY

16TH JANUARY 2020 10:30AM - 12:00PM

CALL US TO BOOK YOUR PLACE

We find their passions

01926 778050 www.arnoldlodge.com

admissions@arnoldlodge.com

1 5 - 1 7 K E N I L W O R T H R O AD , L E A M I N G T O N S P A , C V 3 2 5 T W

180 x 130 Junior School All Round and Assessments Jan 2020.qxp_Layout 1 03/10/2019 12:20 Page 1

An Outstanding Education and...

So Much More

Independent boys’ school (7-11 years)

01926 776414 | admissions@warwickschool.org | www.warwickschool.org

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01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 9

Clubs & Classes

Preparing for Baby’s First Swim

By Rebecca Givens Taking your baby for a dip in the water for the first time can be daunting, especially if you’re a new parent. How do you prepare?

What do you take? Where can you go?

There are dozens of pools in the Warwick, Leamington Spa and Stratford-upon-Avon area and they all work differently - from popular sports centres and busy hotels to swim schools and private hire. It might be good to try a one-off visit first, before signing up to anything, to see how you both get on.

When visiting public pools, always investigate the ‘family’ swim times as they expect to book a bulk of lessons for a set can sometimes be different to ‘public’ swim cost, although some do provide one-off times. Some venues have separate pools taster sessions so you can test the water for families, but others don’t, and when check websites for offers. external lessons also have to be scheduledFun, educational in, the facilities might not always be free for When swimming with a baby, make sure you to use. Call up beforehand to double & multi-sensory to buy a disposable swim nappy which is check, ask if parking is free and don’t forget different from a normal nappy but in the music classes for supermarkets. This acts change for the lockers. same aisle in most as an inner layer babies, toddlers &to catch anything nasty, Pricewise, you can expect to pay for adults, then an additional layer - normal swimsuit and babies under a certain age will go free. pre-schoolers or shorts - is used on the outside of this.

Costs can range from a few pounds at a Free local leisure centre to over £10 at a more Don’t put pressure on them to be doing trial! quiet hotel pool. For swimming schools, backflips in those first few months. Babies

I n t r o d uc ey o ur b a b yt oa w o r l do fs o un d , s o n g sa n dm us i c

take a while to get used to the water - that first swim might only last ten minutes.

Just enjoy it, relax and if they get upset, remember that it takes time to build confidence, for both of you. Really tiny babies might only have a limited window before they get hungry, tired or agitated. If you have to get out of the pool to feed or call it a day early, that’s OK. See Rebecca’s blog at www.warwickshiremama.com where you can find her reviews on baby friendly swimming pools in Warwickshire.

C al lR ac h el :0 7 4 6 9 1 86 0 4 2 T FR R E Multi-sensory music IA E LS classes for babies, *

toddlers & pre-schoolers Call Rachel: 07469 186042 rhythmtime.net/rt228

The perfect place to learn to swim Babies • Toddlers • Preschoolers • Children

rh y t h mt ime .ne t / R T 2 6 Baby signing the FUN way!

Small classes for babies – 2 years

*Offer subject to availability.

Swim Works, Rugby High Street, Hillmorton, Rugby, CV21 4EE. Tel: 01788 568503

Swim Works, Leamington Queensway, Leamington Spa, CV31 3LU. Tel: 01926 426151

www.swimworks.co.uk

“Swim Works is the perfect place to learn to swim with two purpose-built family swim centres in Rugby and Leamington Spa. We offer classes for all ages and abilities: babies (6 weeks +), preschool, after-school, pregnancy aqua and general aqua fit classes, 1-2-1 adult lessons and group classes. You'll love our warm, clean pool and family friendly facilities. We pride ourselves on having the best teachers who ooze passion and expertise."

Julie 07977 038520 juliemesser@singandsign.co.uk

www.singandsign.co.uk Dance and movement classes for little ones from 10 months old in Leamington and Warwick.

www.twirlingtoddlers.co.uk

DANCE CLASSES H Southam Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat

H Leamington Fridays

H Shrewley Sundays

H Barford

ADULT CLASSES TOO!

Saturdays

H Cawston Mondays and Fridays Call Lorraine on 07921 853773

Spanish & French Classes in Leamington Spa, Warwick and Coventry Music, instruments, bubbles, sensory play, dance, puppets, elements of baby massage & yoga

A firm favourite for families in Warwickshire, the award-winning Gymboree Play & Music Warwick and Leamington Spa offers a wide range of fun-packed, animated and educational classes for 0 to 5 years. Come and explore a world of active, teacher-led themes and activities that are perfectly designed to support the development of your little one! Come and see why so many families call Gymboree Play & Music home by booking a FREE trial today.

Call 07881 892 686 or email warwick@ gymboreeclasses.co.uk www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk/warwick

Book your FREE Trial Lesson mel@bilinguasing.com

07815 149877

lorraine@loveballet.co.uk www.loveballet.co.uk

Gymboree Play & Music

www.bilinguasing.com

10 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Award-winning, fun-packed classes for 0-5 year olds in Leamington Spa. T: 07881 892686 www.gymboreeclasses.co.uk/warwick

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Christmas

The Perfect Gift This Christmas Time seems to fly by so quickly and our little ones are growing up. Before we know it, our ‘Little Beans’ will be off. Let me capture a moment in time with your family, just as they are right now.

A Gift Voucher for a Little Beanies Photo Session really is a gift of a lifetime. You can buy either an amount of your choice or a session which includes a Free 8 x 10 print.

Email lisa@littlebeanies.co.uk or visit www.littlebeanies.co.uk

The Best Christmas Family Traditions

By Claire Winter What do you cherish and remember most clearly about Christmas during your own childhood? Was it the food, the carols and music, going to church, the Christmas tree?

When we look back at our childhood, we don’t remember the gifts that we were given, we recall the things we did as a family that created the most long-lasting memories. Family Christmas traditions adhered to year after year during the festive season are an important part of childhood and are often free or don’t cost much.

Here are our eight best memory-making traditions for families to enjoy this Christmas.

Send Homemade Christmas Cards

WIN! WIN! WIN! A copy of ‘It’s a Long Way to the Moon’ by Chris Tetreault-Blay With modern children’s books often full of toilet humour and zombies, millions of parents are crying out for traditional, moral-rich stories that hark back to a bygone era of storytelling.

It’s a challenge Chris Tetreault-Blay has accepted with gusto, and his new children’s book, ‘It’s a Long Way to the Moon’, enchants young readers with rhyme, illustrations and an empowering story of a moth who one night decides to try and fly to the moon. Along the way, he meets several animal friends who try to help him, one of which teaches him a much simpler way that his dream can be realised.

We have a copy up for grabs – to be in with a chance of winning, simply email your name, phone number and address to editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk and write ‘Moon' in the subject.

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Go old school and send some homemade cards. In the modern era of e-Christmas cards, this is a traditional way to make your Christmas celebration special. Making homemade Christmas cards can involve the whole family. Sit down with some glitter, stencils, stickers and coloured paper. Play Christmas music to get you in the mood and your children (and you!) will have great fun making the cards and then giving them to friends and family.

Make an Advent Calendar

Make or buy an advent calendar that can be reused each year. Instead of putting sweets or toys in it, put in a note for each day about all the different things you love about your child. There would be a full-scale riot in my house if there weren’t a small present or treat in the calendar each day so you may want to consider adding the notes on top of a little present!

Give Them a Christmas Eve Box

Treat your children to an early gift with a special box that contains festive pyjamas to wear and a Christmas film to watch. If you want to spend less, you could include a festive book or art and craft activity so they can make a special Christmas Eve decoration for the tree.

Prepare a North Pole Christmas Breakfast

An amazing way to welcome the festive season is by preparing a North Pole Christmas breakfast for your family on the first day of December. Get the children involved designing the menu and making the decorations. Many families combine a North Pole Christmas breakfast with the Elf On The Shelf who joins them for the meal.

He then appears every morning doing something mischievous until Christmas Day. I think most parents either love or loathe the Elf. I’ll let you decide!

Leave Food Out for Father Christmas and His Friends

Leaving food out for the man in red and his friends is another lovely tradition for Christmas Eve. Don’t forget to prepare the reindeer food out of dried oats and biodegradable glitter and have your children scatter it in the garden on Christmas Eve. We also go out and gather greenery like holly and ivy from our garden to decorate the mantelpieces in our house.

Watch the Queen’s Christmas Broadcast

The tradition of sending out a royal Christmas message to the public started in 1932 with George V. So gather around the television with your loved ones and a glass of fizz to watch the royal Christmas message from the Queen.

Don’t Forget to Take a Photo With Your Family

Many families forget to take a family photo on Christmas Day. So, make time to capture a photo with your family each year in front of the Christmas tree striking the same pose.

It will be interesting to document how you change each year. You could even put the photos in a special album.

Go to a Carol Service

Even if you are not generally a church goer, going to a Crib Service at your local church on Christmas Eve is a lovely thing to do with your children. Singing carols and listening to the story of the nativity is sure to put everybody in the festive mood and it’s good to take some time to remember the origins of Christmas.

Wrap Up

Enjoy the special festive memories you make with your family. Your children don’t stay little for long, and it’s great to remind them that Christmas is about being together and not just about presents and treats.

Share your family traditions with using the hashtag #familieschristmas2019 @familieswarwickshiremag @familieswarks

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 11

Christmas

Performances and Pantos

Christmas Markets and Light Switch Ons Leamington Spa Yuletide Market: Sundays from 17 November to 22 December Lights Switch On: Sunday 17 November Lantern Parade: Sunday 1 December

The Albany

The Belgrade Theatre

Dear Zoo Live

The Gruffalo

The Snow Queen

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers: Tribe 25

Stratford-upon-Avon Victorian Market: Friday 6, Saturday 7 & Sunday 8 December Christmas Shopping Market: Thursdays from 21 November to 19 December (except 5 Dec) Bridge Street Upmarket: Sundays to 22 December Lights Switch On: Thursday 21 November

Puss In Boots

Warwick Victorian Evening and Lights Switch On: Thursday 28 November

Coventry Box Office: 024 7699 8964 www.albanytheatre.co.uk Weds 13 & Thurs 14 Nov This production will delight all those who have read the book (both young and old) as it unfolds with child-engaging puppets, music and lots of audience interaction.

For ages 2+.

Mon 9-Sat 28 Dec Combining music, laughter and a thrilling story, this creative and sparkling production is guaranteed to engage and enchant audiences of all ages.

Aladdin

Weds 1-Sun 5 Jan All the ingredients for the perfect pantomime: laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery, special effects, and gorgeous costumes. Not forgetting a generous helping of boos and hisses along the way.

Priory Theatre

Kenilworth Box Office: 01926 863334 www.priorytheatre.co.uk Babes in The Woods

Weds 18 Dec-Sun 5 Jan Enjoy the fabulous Priory panto, with spectacular sets and costumes, fabulous songs and dances - and bags of slapstick fun!

Royal Spa Centre

Leamington Spa Box Office: 01926 334418 royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk Snow White

Sat 7 Dec-Sun 5 Jan Snow White contains all the ingredients for a perfect family panto - a dastardly villain, a hapless comic and a hilarious panto dame, as well as spectacular sets and costumes, fabulous songs, dances and bags of slapstick fun!

Royal Shakespeare Theatre Stratford-upon-Avon Box Office: 01789 403493 www.rsc.org.uk The Boy in the Dress

Fri 8 Nov-Sun 8 Mar David Walliams’ heart-warming comedy is brought to the stage for the first time in a musical with all new songs from Robbie Williams and Guy Chambers, script by former RSC playwright in residence Mark Ravenhill and in a production for all the family directed by RSC Artistic Director Gregory Doran.

All Saints’ Parish Church Leamington Spa www.leamingtonsinfonia.org.uk Preschool Prom: A Children's Concert

Sat 30 Nov In this fun, family-friendly concert, children will experience the drama and delight of orchestral music, along with familiar nursery rhymes, action songs and stories.

A treat for toddlers and adults alike, this is the perfect event to introduce families to classical music.

Coventry Box Office: 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk

Mon 11 & Tues 12 Nov Join Mouse on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in this magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book. For ages 3+.

Weds 13 Nov A breathtaking display of high energy and powerful rhythms on huge taiko drums.

Weds 27 Nov-Sat 11 Jan The purr-fect treat for all the family! Puss In Boots will feature the amazing sets, crazy costumes and seasonal silliness that make a trip to the Belgrade panto an unmissable Christmas treat.

Santa’s Dizzy Day

Thurs 12-Tues 24 Dec An unmissable treat for all children up to the age of 6 years. Fun characters, favourite action songs, a great story and a chance to meet Santa and get a present from him.

Emscote Infant School

Warwick www.facebook.com/Klubicko.Czech.

Club Ententýky Sat 9 Nov The interactive performance draws the audience into the magical world of Czech fairy tales, folk songs and games where you will be actors and singers, and you will also imitate some Czech birds. In the Czech Republic, all birds have their songs and when they sing together it is a wonderful concert. For all ages.

Talisman Theatre

Kenilworth Box Office: 01926 856548 www.talismantheatre.co.uk The Frog Prince

Thurs 19 Dec -Sat 4 Jan All the fun of the traditional family pantomime - a dotty Dame, a put-upon King, the good, the bad and the downright silly! Lots of laughs, music, magic and fun.

Warwick Arts Centre

Coventry Box Office: 024 7652 4524 www.warwickartscentre.co.uk The Nutcracker and I

Sat 23 & Sun 24 Nov A new and innovative live family performance based in the magical Christmas story. On stage Dariescu plays the grand piano and a ballerina dances.

Projected onto a screen and bringing the story to life are exquisite animations that follow the music and engage with the pianist and ballerina as they dance together. For ages 4+.

Father Christmas

Weds 27-Sun 29 Nov This heart-warming adaptation is full of merry touches with plenty of live music, songs and playful puppetry. It’s a perfect introduction to theatre for young children.

For ages 3+.

A Snow Ride – A Christmas Family Concert

Warwick Box Office: 01926 776438 www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk

Sat 7 Dec In this tune-packed concert for the whole family, the Orchestra of the Swan plays a host of atmospheric and recognisable seasonal tunes. A wonderful introduction to classical music for all ages. For ages 5+.

A Christmas Carol

Cinderella

Bridge House Theatre

Thurs 12-Tues 24 Dec This is the perfect opportunity to dive into the heart of a timeless Christmas tale.

Smoking Apples’ unique and heart-warming style of storytelling and spellbinding puppetry will immerse you into a magical theatrical experience like you’ve never seen before.

Thurs 9-Sun 12 Jan This rags-to-riches tale is fun-filled for all the family with a hilarious script and songs from stage, screen and the charts!

With lavish sets, extravagant costumes and double the trouble with two Dames, this pantomime promises to deliver a captivating spectacle! For all ages.

12 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Kenilworth Christmas Market: Saturday 30 November High Street Lights Switch On: Friday 29 November Warwick Road Lights Switch On: Sunday 1 December Southam Christmas Market, Lights Switch On and Lantern Parade: Sunday 1 December Other Christmas Lights Switch Ons Alcester: Sunday 1 December Henley-in-Arden: Saturday 7 December

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.

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. https://www.royalmail.com/christmas/letters-to-santa NSPCC Santa Letter 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. https://letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk/letter-from-santa

Christmas Tree Festival Heralding the start of the Festive Season is the annual Christmas Tree Festival at St Mary’s Church in Warwick that opens on the town’s Victorian Evening on Thursday 28 November. With over 40 trees decorated by businesses, schools and the local community, this spectacular family event runs through to Sunday 8 December.

Vote for your favourite tree and be entered in the prize draw. Admission to the opening night on Victorian Evening is 50p per adult and £1 per adult for the remainder of the festival.

Child entry is free. Lots of events are planned to take place during the festival including a visit from Santa. There’s also a Post Box amongst the trees for children to post their letters to him. Visit the St Mary’s website for details of all the events and opening times. www.stmaryswarwick.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas

Where’s Santa?

Help Santa Spread Christmas Cheer

Take your little ones to meet Father Christmas. Please see individual websites for prices and booking information.

Enchanted Christmas Kingdom Hatton Adventure World

Every weekend from Sat 30 Nov-Sun 22 Dec plus 19, 20, 23 & 24 Dec Visit Father Christmas in his magical Grotto and receive a golden key to unlock his secret toyshop where each child can choose their very own present. A festive family day out with fun fair rides, children’s shows, hands on activities and lots more!

T: 01926 843411

www.hattonworld.com/adventure-world

Santa’s Grotto

Vintage Sleigh Ride and Winter Wonderland

Sat 14 Dec, 1pm-3pm Visit Santa in the gallery grotto. Christmas crafts and festive fun. Refreshments and carols. Drop in and join in.

T: 01926 742700

Coventry Transport Museum

Mon 2-Mon 23 Dec (see website for times) Wander through a magical winter wonderland of festive activities and snowy scenes before taking a ride on an enchanting vintage sleigh, pulled by two trusty reindeer. Meet Santa, tell him your Christmas wishes, receive a magic key and collect your gift from the elf’s toy shop. SEN sessions available.

T: 024 7623 4270

www.transport-museum.com

Santa’s Present Quest All Things Wild

Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum

www.warwickdc.gov.uk/ royalpumprooms

Breakfast with Santa

Charlecote Garden Store and Studley Garden Store

Every weekend from Sat 30 Nov-Sun 22 Dec, plus 23 & 24 Dec Join Santa and his elves for a magical breakfast feast followed by festive fun, songs and games.

Every weekend from Sat 30 Nov-Sun 22 Dec, plus 23 & 24 Dec Go behind the scenes at Elf HQ. Join in the festive fun and complete fun activities to what life is like as one of Santa’s Elves. Visit Santa in his grotto and choose a present to take home.

T: 01386 833083

www.gardenstoreonline.co.uk

Breakfast with Father Christmas

Santa in The Royal Priors

Every weekend from Sat 30 Nov-Sun 22 Dec, plus 23 & 24 Dec Enjoy a breakfast bap and a drink and meet Father Christmas. He will make his way around the restaurant to meet all the boys and girls and pose for photos and children will receive a small gift from him too.

T: 01789 470277

Sat 14 & 21 Dec, 10am-4pm; Sun 15 & 22, 11am-3pm Santa will again be on his sleigh in the Royal Priors this Christmas. Every year the Rotary Club of Royal Leamington Spa invite Santa to the Royal Priors where he delights youngsters with presents and a friendly Ho! Ho! Ho!

www.allthingswild.co.uk Charlecote Park

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecotepark/whats-on

Meet Santa and his Reindeer Compton Verney

Sun 1 & 8 Dec, 1pm-3pm Father Christmas and his reindeer will be taking time out of his busy schedule to enjoy a couple of days out at Compton Verney.

T: 01926 645500

www.comptonverney.org.uk

Breakfast and Tea with Santa

Dobbies Garden Centres Stratford-upon-Avon and Rugby

Every weekend from Sat 30 Nov-Sun 22 Dec, plus 23 & 24 Dec Make it a Christmas to remember and see your little one’s eyes light up as they tuck into breakfast or tea with Santa. Followed by fun activities and a gift from Santa himself.

Christmas at Kenilworth Castle

Sat 7 & Sun 8 Dec A weekend of Christmas fun for all the family with crafts and storytelling. Enjoy ‘An Audience with Santa’.

T: 01926 852078

www.english-heritage.org.uk Leamington Spa

Why not take part in a festive fundraising event for a local charity this year? You’re guaranteed to get into the Christmas spirit and have lots of fun at the Myton Hospice Santa Dash or the Shakespeare Hospice Santa Scramble. They are fun family events which aim to raise lots of money so they can both continue to carry out the great work they do.

Shakespeare Hospice Santa Scramble Stratford Racecourse

Sunday 24 November This extremely popular event will see hundreds of Santas scrambling over 13 inflatable obstacles! Walk, run or jog your way around the 5k inflatable obstacle course dressed as Santa. Little helpers from the age of 6 can also take part.

Tickets include a free Santa suit and hat so all runners look the part! After you have ambled or scrambled your way around the course, you will receive a fabulously festive Santa Scramble medal. Entry fee is £20 for adults, £15 for children or £50 for a family (2+2)

www.theshakespearehospice.org.uk

Myton Hospice Santa Dash

Victoria Park, Leamington Spa

Sunday 8 December Pull on a Santa suit and take part in a 5km run, jog or walk around Leamington’s Victoria Park. As well as playing host to hundreds of Santas and elves, Victoria Park will be filled with festive music, refreshments and entertainment! Pledge to raise a minimum of £50 in sponsorship and you will receive a hot drink and special seasonal gift when checking in. Dress your dog in festive fancy dress and enter them in the first ever Best Dressed Dog competition where the top dog will win a prize! Entry fee is £15 for adults and £5 for children.

www.mytonhospice.org

www.sparotary.org.uk

Santa Float

Santa’s sleigh aims to visit virtually every road in Kenilworth and Leek Wootton over three weeks in December, raising money for charity.

You can also see him at the two town Lights Switch Ons.

www.kenilworthroundtable.com/ SantaFloat

Father Christmas at the Magic Alley and Enchanted Manor Stratford-upon-Avon

Sat 16 Nov-Tues 24 Dec Enjoy a special interactive performance, some quality time with Father Christmas, a unique gift, a puzzle trail and a sparkling Victorian Frost Fair complete with snowballs T: 01789 290969

www.stratfordchristmasfestival.co.uk

www.dobbies.com/christmas

Santa’s Grotto

Dobbies Garden Centres Stratford-upon-Avon and Rugby

Every weekend from Sat 30 Nov-Sun 22 Dec, plus 23 & 24 Dec Bring your little ones along to explore the magical setting, be welcomed by Santa himself and receive a special gift.

www.dobbies.com/christmas

Santa at Warwick Castle

& Nature Inspired Gift Shop

The UK’s Largest Tropical Butterfly Paradise!

Open every Day except Christmas Day

See website for dates Stories with Santa, Santa Sleepover and Santa’s Stately Breakfast.

T: 01926 406660

www.warwick-castle.com

Breakfast with Santa

Stratford Garden Centre

Every weekend from Sat 7-Sun 22 Dec, plus 23 & 24 Dec Join Mrs Claus and the elves while you enjoy breakfast and wait for a special visit from Santa. Decorate a cookie and make reindeer food.

www.stratfordgardencentre.co.uk/ events

familiesonline.co.uk

Butterflies • Birds • Leafcutter Ants Mini-Beasts & so much more….

Check website for events & last entry times All displays fully accessible, carers free entry

Swan’s Nest Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 7LS

Tel. 01789 299288

enquiries@butterflyfarm.co.uk

www.butterflyfarm.co.uk

27 Nov – 11 Jan BOOK NOW

www.belgrade.co.uk 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 13

What's on

Days Out – places to go and things to do this November and December!

Where’s Santa? See page 13 to find out where you can meet Father Christmas.

British Motor Museum

Coventry Transport Museum

Sat 7-Mon 23 Dec

Housing the largest publicly owned collection of British vehicles on the planet, the Museum tells the story of a city which changed the world through transport.

Captivating displays, interactive galleries, and highly immersive exhibitions. Regular Mini Museum Engineers sessions for 2-5 year olds, Sensory Stories and Rhymes sessions, and Family Saturday sessions.

Plus workshops and activities during school holidays.

T: 024 7623 4270

Gaydon

Festive Family Fun

Enjoy our Christmas trail to help Martin the Mechanic fix Santa’s sleigh. Search for the sleigh jigsaw pieces as you explore the Museum and at the end of the trail you will be rewarded with a Christmas treat!

Sat & Sun 7 & 8, 14 & 15, 21 & 22 Dec

Christmas Craft Weekends

Make a Robin, Snowman or Father Christmas then attach them to pullback wheels and watch them go on our Festive race track! The Museum’s Christmas elves will also be there at 1:30pm to take families on a special festive tour of the Museum.

Thurs 2-Sun 5 Jan, 10am-3pm

New Year Activities

Kick start your new year with a visit to the Museum and family fun activities including Lego® building and family tours.

All activities are included in normal Museum admission and are suitable for ages 3+.

T: 01926 641188

www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk

Stratford Butterfly Farm Stratford-upon-Avon

A unique and spectacular family day out. Find extra special stocking-fillers in the nature inspired gift shop. During the Christmas holidays, discover some of the amazing creatures that live at the Butterfly Farm with the popular ‘Meet the Minibeast’ handling sessions. Twice daily from 27 Dec to 5 Jan. Hold creatures such as a giant African Millipede, African land snail, a variety of Stick Insects and even a Madagascan Hissing Cockroach!

T: 01789 299288

www.butterflyfarm.co.uk

The National Trust

See the local NT houses dressed for Christmas and enjoy festive activities.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Charlecote Park

Sat 30 Nov-Sun 5 Jan, 9am-3.30pm

The Great Charlecote Jewel Thief

Bring the family and solve this festive mystery. Book your detectives pass to help find the villain and recover Lady Lucy’s precious Star of Wonder.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ charlecote-park

Hatton Adventure World Nr Warwick

Fantastic day out for all the family.

Indoor and outdoor attractions and entertainment. Full Christmas programme of events plus Festive Farmyard Favourites, Guinea Pig Village, Festive Fun Fair Rides, Laser Combat, Scales and Tails, Indoor Soft Play, and lots more.

T: 01926 843411

www.hattonworld.com/adventureworld

Herbert Art Gallery Coventry

Events and exhibitions all year round. Runs regular art and activity sessions for preschoolers, as well as sensory play days with SEN sessions.

Sat 14 & Sun 15 Dec, 10.30am-3.30pm

Eat The Stars

An immersive world of sight, sound, smell, touch and taste. A captivating performance which takes place along a guided trail of short walks. An all-ages show that is accessible to everyone. £7.

T: 024 7623 7521

www.theherbert.org

Swan Theatre

Coventry

www.transport-museum.com

A fantastic place to let kids run free and get plenty of fresh air. Explore the ruins and have a great day out.

T: 01926 852078

www.english-heritage.org.uk

Warwick Castle Warwick

Jaw-dropping history, magic, myth and adventure! Get lost in time in the Horrible Histories Adventure Maze. A great day out for the whole family.

Sat 23 Nov-Sun 5 Jan

Ice Rink

Stratford-upon-Avon

New for 2019 and set against the spectacular castle backdrop, this is not to be missed. Festive snacks and drinks.

Sat 21 Dec

www.shakespearesschoolroom.org

A great opportunity for families and people of all ages to get together and join in singing carols led by the excellent choir of St Mary’s and accompanied by the fantastic Royal Spa Brass.

T: 0871 265 2000

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall Discover where William Shakespeare was educated. Lots of fun for the family including dressing up Tudor-style, Tudor games, Medieval wall paintings and brush up your Latin with our Tudor School Master!

T: 01789 203170

All Things Wild Honeybourne

A great day out for all the family, all year round. Lots to see and do indoors and outdoors.

Every weekend from Sat 30 Nov-Sun 22 Dec, plus 23 & 24 Dec

Santa's Present Quest

Go behind the scenes at Elf HQ. Join in the festive fun and complete fun activities to what life is like as one of Santa’s Elves. Visit Santa in his grotto and choose a present to take home.

T: 01386 833083

www.allthingswild.co.uk

Compton Verney Nr Warwick

A great day out for all the family whatever the weather. Lots of activities and special events to enjoy all year round. Woodland adventure playground, explore the galleries with an ‘art explorer’ backpack or take part in a range of craft activities during the school holidays.

Sun 1 & 8 Dec, 2pm-4pm

Christmas Paper Crafts

Make festive garlands, floral wreaths, table decorations, hanging advent calendars and cheeky robin tree decorations. For all ages. £1.

Sun 1 & 8 Dec

Festive Storytelling

Mother Christmas shares some of her favourite stories.

T: 01926 645500

Carols at The Castle

www.warwick-castle.com

Shakespeare Houses

In and near Stratford-upon-Avon

Visit Shakespeare’s Family Homes in and around Stratford-upon-Avon and experience what life was like for him and his family.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Sat 14 Dec-Sun 5 Jan, 10am-4pm

Flower of Winter

See the Birthplace filled with floral displays, inspired by traditional winter blooms. find out more about Tudor Christmas traditions.

Hall’s Croft

Tues 26 & Fri 29 Nov, 11am, 12 noon, 3pm & 4pm

Make Crown Garlands for Father and Mrs Christmas

See how Christmas Crowns are made for Father Christmas in various styles from history. See page 13 for details of how you can meet Father Christmas at Hall’s Croft.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage Sat 16 -Sun 24 Nov 12-4pm

Preparations for the Feast

See what’s being prepared in the kitchen, which will be filled with wonderful smells and tastes of Tudor fayre.

Every Fri, Sat and Sun in Dec, 12-4pm

Meet Anne and Bartholomew

www.comptonverney.org.uk

Meet Anne Shakespeare and her brother Bartholomew as they sit at the kitchen table, eating and deciding who should host Christmas!

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

New Place

Open every Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon, 10am to 4pm Donkey Fun Beginning on Fri 20 Dec for three consecutive weekends, join in with a range of donkey-themed activities, including fascinating talks and tours - perfect for the whole family! Meet long-eared Adoption Star duo Timothy and Cain, and irresistibly fluffy donkey Arya. After a stroll around the paddocks, stop by the Nosebag Café for a warm cuppa and a tasty treat. There’s a gift shop offering a wide range of souvenirs (and Christmas gifts!) with all proceeds going towards the 1,500 rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules in Redwings' care nationwide. Entry is free and dogs on leads are welcome.

T: 0870 040 0033

'Our play is done' - oh no it isn't!

Oxhill

www.redwings.org.uk

Stratford-upon-Avon The Play’s the Thing

Royal Shakespeare Company

www.rsc.org.uk/theplaysthething

www.rsc.org.uk/families

Family-friendly exhibition for families and children aged 7+. Take a magical journey through 100 years of theatre-making in Stratford-upon-Avon. Immersive, hands on and engaging.

Kenilworth Castle

Stratford-upon-Avon

FREE drop-in activities all year round including Dressing Up Box, Play Cart, Adventure Bags plus special events and workshops during school holidays.

T: 01789 403493

Every day in Dec, 12-4pm

Shakespeare can't leave London until he's finished Twelfth Night ready for 6 January.

If he doesn't make it home then Christmas will be cancelled! Search the historic site for hidden clues to complete the final speech.

Sat 21 & Tues 24 Dec, 11am

The MAD Museum

Stratford-upon-Avon

The MAD Museum houses an impressive collection of eccentric and ingenious creations. A fun place to visit for all the family. Great shop, ideal for Christmas shopping.

T: 01789 269356

www.themadmuseum.co.uk

Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum

Exhibitions, events and galleries. The art gallery runs regular pre-school, after school and holiday activity sessions.

Every Weds During Term Time, 10.30am-11.30am

Arty Tots

Sessions include play and simple art activities for under 5s and their carers.

Every Weds During Term Time, 4pm-5pm Kids Club Have fun creating art, playing and making friends, learning about local history and discovering the secrets of our collection! For ages 5-11. £7 per week or £10 for 2 siblings.

Sat 30 Nov & Sat 28 Dec, 1pm-3pm

Art Cart Family Fun

Enjoy an activity from our Art Cart (which is available to use all the time). Free. Drop in.

T: 01926 74200

www.warwickdc.gov.uk/ royalpumprooms

Ryton Pools Country Park Bubbenhall

Every Wednesday, in holidays and term time, 10am-11.30am

Toddler Trundle

A weekly event for the tiniest of tiddlers! £2.50 per toddler.

Sun 1 Dec, 11am-2pm

Family Christmas Campfire and Bushcraft

Survive in the woodland. Learn new skills, laugh a lot and spend a day in the great outdoors. Baked potato, mulled juice and fire toasted marshmallows. Make natural Christmas tree decorations. For ages 3+ accompanied by an adult. £8 per person.

Sat 14 & Sun 15 Dec, 10.30am-12pm & 1.30pm-3pm

A Fairy Merry Christmas

Decorate your own willow Christmas star, then help the fairies by going on a hunt for their missing decorations. For ages 3+ accompanied by an adult. £4.50 per child.

T: 024 7630 5592

http://countryparks.warwickshire. gov.uk

Foundry Wood

Leamington Spa

An urban community woodland in the heart of Leamington Spa and Warwick.

Learn about woodland habitats, wildlife conservation, traditional woodland crafts, and more. Regular Forest School sessions, storytelling, creative workshops and lots of special events.

www.foundrywood.co.uk

Don’t Miss

A Christmas Sing-a-long

Model Boat Show

www.shakespeare.org.uk

Sat 9 & Sun 10 Nov From early warships to modern powerboats, the exhibition offers more than just seeing these models on display, but also on the water! Inspire the next generation at Children’s Time, where younger shipmates get the opportunity to take the helm themselves and navigate boats on the pool. Children’s Hour: 11.40am-12pm and 2pm-2.40pm.

A special Makaton Christmas sing-a-long ending with a Christmas story. Come dressed in your best Christmas outfit there will be a prize for the most festive person! Then enjoy our specially created Makaton Christmas trail around the site of Shakespeare's New Place and get hands on with sculptures and other interactive parts of the site.

T: 01789 204016

Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve Coventry

Brandon Marsh runs regular Nature Tots sessions for pre-school children, Wildlife Watch after school clubs, plus activity sessions during school holidays, including crafts, den building and pond dipping.

Learn about different animals and have lots of fun!

T: 024 7630 2912

Warwickshire Event Centre

www.modelboatshow.co.uk

Nearly New Sale

Warwickshire College, Leamington Spa Sat 30 Nov, 2pm-4pm Buy or sell nearly new baby and children's clothes, quality second-hand toys and baby equipment. See website for stall booking and more information.

www.mum2mummarket.co.uk

www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

14 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

What's on

Family Games to Play This Christmas Exploding Kittens

This card game is for people who like explosions, laser beams, and kittens. All the players draw from the deck until one of them draws the exploding kitten. At this point, the only option for survival is to play a defuse card that allows them to place the kitten back into the deck. Beautifully designed and riotously funny! £19.99 Amazon

Pictionary

This drawing game has been a firm favourite since 1985. The latest edition has been updated with two levels of clues for adults and younger children, making it a fun game for all ages. It also has wipe clean markers and boards. £21.99 Amazon

Festive Family Fun Christmas Trail & Crafts 7 - 23 December

Help Martin the Mechanic get Santa’s sleigh back on the road with our Christmas Trail, and enjoy family crafts every weekend.

New Year Activities 2 - 6 January

Get creative with Lego®

Chess and Draughts

According to academics, chess boosts intelligence and creativity, so this Christmas teach your children the tactical games of Chess and Draughts to improve their mental agility. These timeless games are also a great way to share one-on-one time with your child. £19.99 Amazon

Dobble

This fun picture card game is really addictive! It requires speed of observation as players have to pick out one icon from a group on a card that matches the same icon in a group on another card. This simple premise then forms the basis for five short mini-games, alternatively asking you to collect or discard cards as quickly as possible. Younger eyes and reflexes are at a definite advantage which means your 5 year old will beat you fair and square! £12.99 Amazon

BUY 1 DAY GET 12 MONTHS FREE* * terms and conditions apply Museum closed 24 Dec – 1 Jan

£40 FAMILY

TICKET

BOOK ONLINE

britishmotormuseum.co.uk

J12 M40 . Gaydon . Warwickshire . CV35 0BJ

Enjoy your precious family time this Christmas!

Prices start from £6.50!

Christmas at Charlecote

10 dates to choose from!

BOOK ONLINE NOW to secure your place!

ation Formal Inforvit mally invited

The Great Charlecote Jewel Theft

You have been at ELF HQ. to go behind the scenes a present ose cho and Visit Santa festive the in Join to take home!

Kitchen, fun with Merry Berrys Crafts, Christmas Trail & More! !

We look forward to your visit Love from Jolly Jingles x (Head Elf)

30 November - 5 January 9.00am - 3.30pm Bring the family and solve this festive mystery. Book your detective's pass to help find the villain and recover Lady Lucy's precious Star of Wonder. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote-park © National Trust. Registered Charity No: 205846. Image: NT Images / James Dobson

familiesonline.co.uk

www.christmas.allthingswild.co.uk All Things Wild Nature Centre, Station Road, Honeybourne.

Near Evesham, Worcestershire. Wr11 7QZ Tel: 01386 833083

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 15

This ChrisTmas Published by Puffin Book Copyright © Raymond Briggs

The Nutcracker and I

by Alexandra Dariescu

Sat 23 & Sun 24 Nov Age 5+

ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN

Snow Ride! - A Christmas Family Concert Sat 7 Dec Age 5+

LYRIC THEATRE AND PINS AND NEEDLES PRESENT RAYMOND BRIGGS’

Father Christmas Wed 27 Nov – Sun 29 Dec Age 3+

Warwick Arts Centre @warwickarts warwickarts

Box Office 024 7652 4524 warwickartscentre.co.uk Warwick Arts Centre, The University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL

Warwick Arts Centre – The region’s biggest arts and entertainment venue.

Vintage Sleigh Ride and Winter Wonderland This Christmas make family memories to cherish!

2 December – 23 December

Children: £8 with gift (Two accompanying adults admitted free per child.

Additional adults £1.50)

Wander through a magical winter wonderland of festive activities and snowy scenes before taking a ride on an enchanting vintage sleigh, pulled by two trusty reindeer.

Your next stop? Lapland.

The Vintage Sleigh Ride and Winter Wonderland is a separate activity to the museum’s permanent offer.

Museum admission tickets are not required. Heavily discounted admission tickets are available as an add on.

16 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Please visit transport-museum.com for opening times, admission prices, and more information.

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