Issue 67 September/October 2022 Familiesonline.co.uk Back to school Clubs & Half-termclassesfun FREETakeMeHome IN THIS ISSUE Warw ickshire
A home is more than just bricks and mortar. That’s why NFU Mutual Bespoke home insurance covers not only your home but also your beloved garden. TAILORED HOME INSURANCE RIGHT DOWN TO THE FINEST DETAIL D James, A C Price, M J Welton, J P Bird & G J Wheatley is an appointed representative of The National Farmers Union Mutual Insurance Society Limited (No. 111982). Registered in England. Registered Office: Tiddington Road, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 7BJ. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. A member of the Association of British Insurers. For security and training purposes calls may be recorded and monitored. To discuss your high-value home insurance, call Joel Long at the Central Warwickshire agency on 07977 399301 or search NFU Mutual Bespoke.
September is a great time to explore new Clubs and Classes. See our A-Z for inspiration of different activities to sign up to this term.
All content © Families Warwickshire. Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine for parents of children 0-12. Print run 16,000. 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 this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without the 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 LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. 7
October 2022 Claire Jones T:editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk07938657719familieswarwickshiremag@familieswarksfamilieswarwickshiremagPhotographyBee&ApplePhoto: Claire Editor
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 3 CONTENTS
Next issue: November/December 2022 Booking deadline: Friday
Finally, Autumn can be a beautiful time of year for spending outdoors but the weather can be changeable so if you’re looking for ideas to keep your kids off screens as the nights draw in, why not try out some of our half-term screen-free rainy day activities. With the children back at school, I hope you get the chance to make (and drink!) a hot drink and enjoy the magazine.
Contact us In this issue Back to school Clubs and classes What’s Half-termAskParentingEducationontheexpertfun15.14.12.10.8.6.4.
Hello again! Can you believe the children are back at school already? It seems like 5 minutes ago since they were breaking up! Hope you had a fantastic Startingsummer. or going back to school can be challenging for children (and parents) so check out our Back to School feature for some great ways to help them at home, from new term teething troubles to mastering times tables and some top tips to demystify phonics!
Check out our What’s On guide for the best places to pick up your pumpkins and fun things to do during October half-term. This issue we welcome a new expert to the panel, Belinda Wells, our Emotional Resilience Expert from Help My Child. Belinda is an Ollie Coach with 30 years’ experience helping children and families manage emotions and behaviour. She has some great advice for you in our Ask the Expert column.
Meet the Head is back! and it’s the turn of King’s High School in Warwick. We also tackle some parenting favourites including how best to help your children with homework and getting children to tidy up.
Talk to their teacher to find out if they’re aware of any problems too.
New term teething troubles
By Liat Joshi-Hughes
By Zuzu Jordan Learning times 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. 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?
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. Showing your child how to spot patterns and connections also helps them to apply their understanding to more complex calculations and word problems.
Liat Hughes Joshi is a journalist and author who specialises in writing about parenting and family life. Her most recent book Help Your Child Cope with Change is published by Vie. TO
• Match the question with the correct multiple choice answer
MasteringSCHOOL times tables
My child is having trouble making friends Perhaps they’re in a different class or their closest friend has left the school and they’re struggling to adjust and find a new bestie or gang. Regardless, there are a couple of things you can do to boost your child’s friendships. Firstly, of course, talk to your child’s teacher and ask if there’s anyone they think your son or daughter might particularly gel with. Next up, invite them over for a playdate or arrange to meet them and their parent in the park. If confidence is an issue, role play approaching potential friends with your little one…take it in turns. My child can’t manage this year’s curriculum Primary school learning is much more of a double act these days, a partnership between parents and teachers. Again, go and have a chat with the teacher to try and understand your child’s level and find out what you can do to support your little one’s reading, writing or maths at home. This needn’t be anything formal, just reading a little more together or encouraging them to do some basic adding up when you’re at the shops or baking. For writing practice, could they write a post card to their grandparents or other relatives? My child is struggling to behave appropriately With each move up a year at primary school, comes new privileges but also new expectations of behaviour. So, perhaps in Reception, children were not expected to sit still for very long but now they’ve moved to Year 1, they have to stay still and listen more. As ever, do catch up with their teacher to find out what they can do to support your child with the change but also look at practicing at home. My child is grumpy after school
Try some of these ideas:
• Ask Alexa (or equivalent AI) to recite a times tables or play a multiplication song and ask your child to try to beat it
Spend some time trying to tease out what might be going on. Are they having issues with friends or being bullied perhaps?
The autumn term has begun and your child has started or returned to school. What kind of challenges might occur over the next few months while your child copes with the changes that September brought with it? And how should you deal with them? Here we look at some common ‘teething troubles’ and what you could do to help.
So first up, check these basics. If they’re getting tired, look to adjust their bedtime, if possible. A giveaway here is if the grouchiness tends to happen towards the end of the week. If it’s hunger, give them a snack for the journey home if you can. Should neither of these be the cause, the grouchies could be down to something they’re finding difficult to handle or upsetting at school and they’re deflecting their stress or anger onto you.
• Colour in the multiples on a 100 square
• Write multiples on post-it notes or paper and make a game of aiming a ball at the correct answer
• Rhymes are great for tricky multiplication facts such as ‘wakey wakey, rise and shine, 7 x 7 is 49
• 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.
4 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
• Use online games such as Times Tables Rockstars (https://ttrockstars.com). These are great to help develop speed and accuracy
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.
BACK
It’s common to greet your child at the school gate expecting to catch up on news of their day and instead being faced with a grouchy monster. Even if this wasn’t happening in the summer term last year, your daughter or son might be finding the new school year more tiring for whatever reason, or they could be hungrier due to a growth spurt.
Phonics is a way of teaching children to read and later write. It is based on the fact that letters and groups of letters make sounds and when we put those sounds together they make words.
Think about reading as sharing a book with your child rather than them always sitting quietly and listening. By talking about the words and language and explaining meaning, children learn and understand more.
• Practise blending - this can be the key to unlock entry to ‘the club!’
2022 Kate Hindley
Read, read, read!
What is phonics?
Lewry
phonicsUnderstanding
• If you’re stuck or worried, ask your child’s school for help. Supporting children learning to read can be as frustrating as it is magical. I hope these tips help you joining the Phonics Club!
• Read, read, read!
If the thought of supporting your child with phonics fills you with dread, never fear! There is one simple thing you can do which will help them beyond your expectations: reading!
Top Tips • Practise recognising the sounds.
• Help children to spot when two or three letters work together to make one sound e.g ‘ai’ in ‘rain’ and ‘igh’ in ‘light’.
©
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 5 BACK TO SCHOOL Illustrations
Achop.trigraph
From award-winning picture book creators & MAKE ROOM IN YOUR HEART FOR
As children develop in their phonics ability you will find they want to help you read and you can work together to read a
• Your child will be taught phonics in a specific way at school so ask them to teach you. It’s a great way for them to test their understanding.
Reading to and with your child is the single most impactful thing you can do to help their reading, writing and language skills to develop. By being read to, children hear new words, learn the flow of language and develop their understanding of Readgrammar.asoften as you can, whether it’s stories, poems, cookery books, magazines - anything you have or see! Allow your child to ask questions and talk about what they understand along the way.
Bytext.Emma
Phonics is one of those things that feels like a secret clubsome people understand it and to others it’s gobbledegook! If you have a child at school, they’re part of ‘the club’ and they may look askance at you when you ask what a digraph or blending is. For you and anyone who has a child due to start school, here are some tips to get you both closer to full admittance of the phonics club!
There are different groups of letters that make sounds: a digraph is two letters that go together to make one sound e.g. ‘ch’ in is three letters together making one sound e.g. ‘ear’ in As‘near’.children develop their knowledge, they build up and put together all of the sounds they recognise in order to read and write.
English is a tricky language and sometimes the same letters make different sounds. For example, ‘i’ can sound short as in ‘fish’ or have a longer sound like ‘eye’ in ‘find’.
Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, headteacher and mother of two. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk) which guides families through starting school with courses, groups and a school starters planner.
Art and craft 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.
Coding As well as preparing them for the future, classes in coding and robotics teach children logical thinking, maths skills and complex problem solving.
stagecoach.co.uk/kenilworth07432638990KENILWORTHstagecoach.co.uk/warwick07432638990WARWICK 07483 stagecoach.co.uk/leamingtonspa914041 Workshops0797www.letsanimate.co.uk3354567hello@letsanimate.co.ukANIMATIONSTUDIO&BirthdayParties New term, new activity? www thegymnasticsclub co uk Join us for a taster session. Book online today SPACES AVAILABLE NOWLittle Stars age G0-3 ym Stars age 3-4Recreational fGymnastics rom Reception upwards! A to Z of clubs and classes By Andrew Campbell Out of school activities offer your child the opportunity to
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.
Unlock your child’s potential Singing, dancing and
to Z to
w w w m y b a b y s p a c o u k w w w m y t o d d e r s p a c o u k @ M y B a b y S p a U K @ M y T o d d l e r S p a U K An award winning sensory spa for 0-4 year olds jacuzziBaby massageBaby photoSpa Bondingtime footToddlerspa productsNatural photoSpa groupSmall 10% off baby or toddler spas with code families10 6 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk
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.
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.
at something new, develop an existing interest, have fun, get exercise and to socialise and make friends outside of school. We’ve
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.
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.
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.
CLUBS & CLASSES
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.
Football As well as being the most popular sport in the world, football is one of the most well-rounded, developing a host of physical, social and cognitive skills.
Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds try hand put together an A help
their
Languages By starting early, your child will learn faster and more easily; being bilingual improves problem solving skills, concentration and boosts brain power.
Music As well as the simple enjoyment, music classes are a great way to explore talent and develop abilities like patience and discipline.
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. Kitchen fun If you have an aspiring chef, cooking classes are great fun and will teach basic life skills and healthy eating. Online options are now available too.
guide your selection process.
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 7
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.
CLUBS & CLASSES
Quiet For the naturally quiet, chess offers children as young as age 4 the chance to make friends and improve self-esteem. 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. Performing arts Children who sing/dance/act/ play, learn communication skills, gain confidence, improve academic performance and most importantly, can use these classes to let off steam and have fun.
Zumba A high energy combination of dance and exercise, these fun classes will get young ones moving with enthusiasm.
For the child who thrives on adrenalin and risk, consider rock climbing, tree top walking, abseiling, orienteering, circus, go-karting, trampolining or even Parkour.
Movement, Music, Makaton!
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.
The Zoogie Boogie Club has officially come to Warwick and everyone is talking about it! They offer a wide range of funpacked, animated, active, and musical classes for little ones from 8+ weeks to 5 years. From super-soothing sensory sessions to classes for crawlers, pre-walkers to walkers, runners and imaginative explorers. Classes feature a magical blend of teacher-led, equipmentfocused activities, musical exploration, imaginative play, Makaton & more! As a member, you get unlimited make-up sessions (if you ever miss a class) and unlimited access to their daily and weekly free play sessions. Free parking is available on-site and close to the venue: The Zoogie Boogie Club, 11 Scar Bank, Warwick, CV34 5DB. Spaces go very quickly so book a FREE taster todayorEmail: contact@zoogieboogie.co.uk visitwww.zoogieboogie.co.uk
Water Sports Children as young as age 7 can get involved in sailing and water sports. Local clubs offer free taster training courses overseen by qualified instructors which can progress to team racing.
Yoga Ideal for the anxious or easily distracted, children learn to manage stress and develop concentration through breathing, awareness, meditation and healthy movement.
Unique, Animated and Educational classes for 0 5 years Book a free taster session today www.zoogieboogie.co.uk
Xtreme
New Educational Centre in Warwick!
Swimming Ever popular, swimming offers a host of benefits including cardiovascular exercise, improving strength, flexibility, stamina, balance and posture. 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.
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 0-5 year olds, Chat and Play for under 5s, and interactive Family Museum Engineers sessions. T: 024 7623 4270
Live Theatre and Family Shows
A fantastic year-round family attraction, comprising of animals, dinosaurs, soft play and much more to discover! With plenty of activities both indoor and outdoor, to keep all ages entertained whatever the weather!
8 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
British Motor Museum Gaydon World’s largest collection of historic British cars, celebrating the past, present and future of British motoring. A great day out whatever the weather. Magic of Science Sat 22 – Sun 30 Oct Get up close to a Ford Anglia from the Harry Potter films and join our mad scientists this half-term for some mind blowing experiments!
Demon Dentist WED 26 – SAT 29 OCT
Strange things are happening when children leave their teeth for the tooth fairy and Alfie and his friend Gabz are determined to get to the bottom of it – but no-one could have dreamt what they’ll discover when they come face to face with the Demon Dentist! Don’t miss this electrifying tale from the West End producers of David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny and Billionaire Boy. It promises to be the most thrilling and hilarious adventure yet!
Warwickshire
Kenilworthwww.gojumpin.comCastle and Elizabethan Garden Sat 22 – Sun 30 Oct (10:00 – 17:00) Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Kenilworth Castle this half-term. Follow the trail to solve creepy clues and gather round to listen to spooky stories. Booking
The smash hit of Christmas past returns to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre by popular demand. Adrian Edmondson will play Ebenezer Scrooge in David Edgar’s critically acclaimed adaption of Charles Dickens’ much-loved classic. A festive tale of redemption and compassion for all the family. To advertise with us call 07938 657719
WHAT’S ON
BOXCoventryOFFICE: 024 7699 SATMilkshake!www.albanytheatre.co.uk8964Live24SEP
T: 01386 833083
The newly refurbished Jump In Adventure Park in Warwick is the perfect place for families to enjoy some quality jumpin’ fun! The park has some amazing attractions. Whether it’s flying through the air into the foam pit or racing down the slides on the new huge inflatable, there are plenty of thrills to be had. If you love football and sports, there is a new interactive pitch to hone your skills and challenge your friends…. and then there is the super popular Wipeout! The whole family will love it... guaranteed!
The Highland Joker: The Bubble SATShow8OCT Join Mr Bubbles, actor, storyteller and Guinness World Record Holder, The Highland Joker for The Bubble Show. This unique blend of magic, storytelling and bubble art from one of the top bubble artists in the world promises to be fun for all the family!
SUN 23 OCT Gather your friends, collect your compasses and turn on your torches, the world of the ghost is full of frauds so can YOU tell the fact from the fake? A spine-tingling show, from the man behind Horrible Histories, with the scary bits left in!
Jump on board the broom with the witch and her cat in Tall Stories’ fun-filled adaptation of Room on the Broom, the best-selling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Will there ever be room on the broom for everyone? Find out in the magical Olivier Award nominated show for everyone aged 3 and up. Bugsy Malone The Musical TUE 13 – SUN 18 SEP Get ready for the custard pies to fly as rival gangster bosses Fat Sam and Dandy Dan fight it out in this world-famous musical comedy. Can Bugsy stay out of trouble long enough to save the day and get the girl? Book early to find out!
T:required.01926852078 www.english-heritage.org.uk Go CoventryApe Swing, bounce and zoom from dusk and into the night this autumn with Go Ape’s Sundown Sessions. From October, thrill-seekers can tackle the high ropes and zip wires in the dark! With a Sundown Treetop Challenge Xpress, Treetop Adventure, Axe Throwing and Mini Landrovers there’s something for everyone! Booking required. Regular sessions also available during the day. www.goape.co.uk
Herbert Art Gallery Coventry Events and exhibitions all year round. Runs regular art and activity sessions for pre-schoolers, sensory play days, storytelling, family friendly workshops, art talks and masterclasses. Magic & Mischief Sat 22 – Sat 29 Oct (excluding Sunday) This half-term, transform mason jars into enchanted forests (28 & 29 Oct), lighten up dark evenings with hand crafted lantern luminaries (22, 24 & 25 Oct) and craft your own mischievous masks (26 & 27 Oct). Designed for age 3+ but all are welcome. All creations can be taken home on the day.
T: 01926 641188 www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk
NrHattonwww.transport-museum.comAdventureWorldWarwick
Fantastic day out for all the family. Indoor and outdoor attractions and entertainment. Farmyard animals, guinea pig village, scales and tales, laser combat arena, indoor soft play, adventure play and much more. Pumpkin Spooktacular! Sat 22 – Sun 30 Oct Pick your own pumpkin from the Pumpkin Patch, brave the Haunted House, be entertained at the Magic & Mayhem Illusion Show and take a Bewitching Ride on the Trailer with some fun surprises along the way. You’ll be sure to have a FANGTASTIC time at Hatton this Halloween. Booking T:required.01926843411 adventure-worldwww.hattonworld.com/
HoneybourneWild
T: 024 7623 7521 WarwickJumpwww.theherbert.orgIn
Stunning parkland and lake, and woodland adventure playground. Award-winning art gallery. Restaurant and gift shop. There’s so much to do with the family this half-term. Choose from In-LIGHT II, Autumn Exhibitions: The Lost Words and Quentin BlakeInside Stories, The Spell Walks, The Big Draw or Family Forest School. There’s something for everyone! Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays. T: 01926 645500
All Things
Join Paddington, Daisy & Ollie, Milo, Noddy, Pip and Posy, Blue’s Clues & You! and of course Milkshake! Monkey for an unforgettable family time at Milkshake Monkey’s Musical! Terry Deary’s True Ghost Stories (Age 8+)
The Noise Next Door: Mysterious Mansion of Mystery (Family Show)
There is also a fantastic 4-tier soft play area and soft play parties are new for T:2022!0800 098 8212
Owls, ghosts, chases, escapes, motorcycle rides and tiddlywinks all fill Stella’s days as she evades her menacing Aunt in this David Walliams tale, adapted by Heartbreak Productions. As the sole heir of Saxby Hall, can she save the family home?
BOXCoventryOFFICE:
TUE 25 OCT Take a tour of the world’s most bewildering building with comedy heavyweights The Noise Next Door. Who knows what lurks in the curious corridors and bizarre boudoirs of this ancient manor house? You do! What you say goes in this hour of anarchic entertainment that is fun for literally everyone. A little bit spooky, a little bit silly and a whole lot of funny.
Royal Spa Centre
THUAwfulco.ukwww.royalspacentreandtownhall.334418Auntie8SEP
Fun for all the familythis autumn
Belgrade Theatre 024 7655 3055 WEDRoomwww.belgrade.co.ukontheBroom7–SAT10SEP
Baby Bear SUN 30 OCT Join Baby Bear in a story of courage and curiosity, exploring nature and wildlife in an uplifting, beautiful and comical theatre production. Combining stunning visuals, an exploration of the senses and sung to a mesmerising soundtrack, Baby Bear is a playful, interactive puppetry adventure for babies, toddlers and their families. The perfect first theatre experience!
NrComptonwww.allthingswild.co.ukVerneyWarwick
CoventryCoventrywww.comptonverney.org.ukTransportMuseum
Royal WEDAwww.rsc.org.ukBOXCompanyShakespeareOFFICE:01789331111ChristmasCarol26OCT–SUN1JAN2023
Leamington Spa BOX OFFICE: 01926
The Albany Theatre
Tue 25 Oct 2022 Treat the family to Afternoon Tea followed by a screening of the Disney animation classic, 101 Dalmatians in the Belgrade’s brand-new Screen Room. Afternoon Tea is served from 12:30 with a special Children’s Afternoon Tea available for younger guests. Film starts at 13:30. Perfect for half-term but book early!
The Haunted Castle Sat 22 – Mon 31 Oct Experience the ultimate spooky fun at the castle this Halloween and venture through The Haunted Hollows, meet the Witches of Warwick and explore the castle grounds spooky décor, pumpkins and more. Included in daytime castle entry tickets on selected dates. Castle After Dark 22, 23, 28-31 Oct from 18:00 Brace yourself as the castle comes to life with haunted spirits and fearful frights! Experience the darker side of the castle this Halloween with an evening of live music, captivating entertainment, quirky roaming characters, delicious street food and thrilling attractions. Only for the bravest of families! Evening castle entry tickets required.
Visit the UK’s only Mechanical Art venue. Housing an impressive collection of eccentric and ingenious creations. Interact with artworks, contraptions and machines. A fun place to visit for all the family. Free family activity sheets. Pre-booked tickets only required during October half-term (22-31 Oct) T: 01789 269356
Stratford-upon-AvonFarm
royalpumproomswww.warwickdc.gov.uk/TheMADMuseumStratford-upon-Avon
T: 0871 265 2000 www.warwick-castle.com Don’t miss Leamington Food and Drink PumpFestivalRoom Gardens Leamington Sat 10 & Sun 11 Sep (10:00 - 18:00) This year’s Festival returns to celebrate the best in local and regional food and drink. With an exciting line up of live music and entertainment from the bandstand, demonstrations from local chefs at the Live Cookery Theatre and a host of food and drink exhibitors, this promises to be a great day out! Get the kids involved too at the ever-popular Make and Bake Cookery School with plenty of cooking sessions for families. Book your slot on the day (Bookings open at 11am). Silver Screen Family –One Hundred and One CoventryBelgradeDalmatiansTheatre
Stratford-upon-Avon&Shakespeare’swww.redwings.org.uk/visitingSchoolroomGuildhall
Skate for fun, learn to skate, book a party or take the family to watch an Ice Hockey game and support the Coventry Blaze this autumn. See website for fixtures and booking. T: 02476 630693
A great day out for the whole family! Witness the incredible skills of the bowman and get lost in time in the Horrible Histories™ Maze. See the spectacular and fascinating birds in the UK’s biggest bird of prey show, The Falconer’s Quest. Explore the castle towers and ramparts and over 64 acres of beautiful grounds and gardens. Kids can immerse themselves in
Stratford-upon-AvonMagicwww.themadmuseum.co.ukAlley Family Halloween attraction for age 6+. Throughout October, embark upon a twisted adventure that will take you on a spooktacular journey around the Twisted Circus. Do you dare to enter the Big Top? Complete the quest and solve the puzzles and escape the big top! Prizes and certificates on completion. Check website before visiting with small children, no babies allowed. T: 01789 290969
AtherstoneTwycrosswww.tudorworld.comZoo
Sat 22 – Sun 30 Oct Enjoy a spooky half-term at Stratford Butterfly Farm! There are plenty of creepie crawlies and pumpkins as well as hundreds of beautiful tropical butterflies to keep the whole family entertained this October half term. Meet the Mini-Beast handling sessions will take place daily in the Discovery Zone. Join the team in dressing up for Halloween on 29 & 30 Oct, the spookier the costume the better! are available to book online as well as on the day entrance. See website for more information and opening times.
the world of Zog with the popular Zog and the Quest for the Golden Star trail and the new Zog Playland.
OxhillRedwingswww.coventryblaze.co.ukwww.planet-ice.co.ukHorseSanctuary
T: 01789 299288 www.butterflyfarm.co.uk ONLINE TODAY! Open throughout the year from 10AM daily The UK’s Largest Tropical Butterfly www.butterflyfarm.co.ukParadise!Swan’s Nest Lane, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 7LS Tel. 01789 enquiries@butterflyfarm.co.uk299288&NatureInspiredGiftShop Get Halloween ready! Here’s our favourite local places to pick your own pumpkins or lovely farm shops to buy them. See websites for details as booking may be required. The Pumpkin Place Wolston, Coventry PYO KenilworthPUMPKINSwww.thepumpkinplace.merlintickets.co.ukRUS PYO RugbyMaltwww.thebarnatberryfields.co.ukMeridenThewww.hilltopfarmshop.comLeamingtonHiltopwww.halloweenpumpkins.co.ukFarmBarnatBerryfieldsKilnFarm PYO Stratford-upon-AvonLowerwww.thefarmstratfordshop.comStratford-upon-AvonThewww.maltkilnfarmshop.co.ukFarmCloptonFarmShop PYO PumpkinWarwickHattonwww.lowerclopton.co.ukCountryWorldSpooktacular2022 22 – 30 Oct www.adventure.hattonworld.com
WarwickshireThewww.shakespearesschoolroom.orgNationalTrust
editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 9
Home to 80 rescued horses, ponies and donkeys. Café and gift shop, plus the opportunity to adopt a horse, pony or donkey. Entry and parking are free and dogs on leads are welcome. Booking is required. See website for details. T: 0870 040 0033
Stratford Butterfly
Rain or shine there’s always something to discover, plenty of space to run around and an outdoor adventure to be had at our local National Trust properties: Baddesley Clinton; Coughton Court; Packwood House; Charlecote Park; Upon House and Gardens and Farnborough Hall. www.nationaltrust.org.ukTudorWorldStratford-upon-Avon Sat 22- Mon 31 Oct
familiesonline.co.uk
Visit the 600-year-old building where William Shakespeare was inspired by literature and theatre for the very first time! Fun for all the family including dressing up Tudor-style, traditional Tudor games, quill writing and a lesson from a Tudor School Master! Turn your visit into a whole day of exploration and pick up the Schoolroom’s FREE Family Trail around Shakespeare’s hometown with fun facts about one of England’s most historic towns and key highlights from Shakespeare’s T:childhood.01789203170
Join us if you dare for a week of day and night Halloween Events in this historical building in the middle of Stratford. Quizzes and childfriendly stories for the children during the day and Ghost Tours at night. The museum is suitable for all ages but you might wish to warn children there are figures in some of the exhibits to enhance the experience and atmospheric lighting. Check website before visiting with small children.
T: 01789 298070
T: 0844 474 1777 WarwickWarwickwww.twycrosszoo.orgCastle
CoventryPlanetwww.magicalleystratford.comIce
Enjoy a family fun day out at the Zoo! Explore the animal world any time of the year, with indoor and outdoor habitats, interactive experiences and fun, exciting encounters with over 500 animals, from 125 different species. If you’re feeling brave, why not journey though the deep, dark wood and visit The Gruffalo Discovery Land – the only land of its kind in the UK which aims to inspire more children than ever before about the importance of conservation and the natural world.
WHAT’S ON
Tickets
Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum Exhibitions, events and galleries. Learn about local history and what life was like in Victorian Leamington Spa. T: 01926 74200
Arnold LeamingtonLodgeSpa (Ages 4-18) T: 01926 778050 www.arnoldlodge.com Open Day: Sat 1 Oct 10:00 – 13:00 Bilton Grange Rugby (Ages 3-13) T: 01788 810217 www.biltongrange.co.uk Open Day: Sat 8 Oct 10:00 The Kingsley School Leamington Spa (Ages 3-18) T: 01926 421368 www.thekingsleyschool.co.uk Senior School Open Day: Fri 23 SeniorSepSchool Taster Morning (Yr 5 & 6): Sat 24 Sep Prep and Junior Schools Bablake and King Henry VIII Pre CoventryPrep T: 024 7627 1285 www.kinghenrys.co.ukwww.bablake.com Open Day: Sat 24 Sep 09:30 – 12:00 Bablake CoventryPreparatory T: 024 7627 1260 www.bablake.com Open Day: Sat 24 Sep 09:30 – 12:30 King Henry VIII Preparatory Coventry T: 024 7627 1160 www.kinghenrys.co.uk Open Eve: Fri 23 Sep 17:00 – 20:00 Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery Kenilworth T: 01926 514444 www.crackleyhall.co.uk Open Eve (Reception & Yr 3): Thu 29 Sep 18:00 – 20:00 Crescent School Rugby T: 01788 521595 www.crescentschool.co.uk Open Eve (Reception & Yr 3): Tue 4 Oct 18:30 – 20:00 The Croft Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon T: 01789 293795 www.croftschool.co.uk Open Day: Wed 12 Oct 10:00 – 12:00 Henley Henley-in-ArdenMontessoriPrimaryMontessoriandMerrydaysNursery T: 01564 795722 Stratford-upon-AvonStratfordwww.henleymontessori.co.ukPreparatorySchool T: 01789 297993 www.stratfordprep.co.uk Open Day: Date TBC 10:00 – 12:30 Warwick Preparatory School Warwick T: 01926 491545 www.warwickprep.com Open Day: Sat 24 Sep 10:00 – 12:30 Warwick School Warwick T: 01926 776418 www.warwickschool.org Open Day: Sat 1 Oct 10:00 – 12:30 Senior CoventryBablakeSchoolsSenior T: 024 7627 1200 www.bablake.com Open Day: Sat 24 Sep 09:30 – 12:30 King Henry VIII Senior Coventry T: 024 7627 1111 www.kinghenrys.co.uk Open Eve: Fri 23 Sep 17:00 – 20:00 King’s WarwickHigh T: 01926 494485 www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk Open Eve: Fri 16 Sep 16:30 – 19:30 Princethorpe College Rugby T: 01926 634201 www.princethorpe.co.uk Open Day: Thu 22 Sep 10:30 – 12:30 Warwick School Warwick T: 01926 776400 www.warwickschool.org Open Day: Sat 1 Oct 10:00 – 12:30 Independent schools - Coventry and Warwickshire Pre-booking for open days required. See websites for full details. 10 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk EDUCATION
This issue we talk to Dr Stephen Burley, Head Master of King’s High School, Warwick. King’s High School is one of the UK’s leading schools for girls aged between 11 and 18, and the Independent School Association’s Senior School of the Year. Steeped in over 140 years of history, the school’s ethos is to educate the changemakers of the future - young women who will go out into the world and make a positive Howdifference.would
Dr Stephen Burley, Head Master, King’s High School, Warwick Meet the Head of King’s High School
How would you describe the ethos of King’s High School? Warm, inspiring, forward-thinking. King’s High is a happy, joyful school and a very friendly community. It’s an exciting place to teach and to learn: we are a flagship school for innovation and creative thinking, preparing our pupils for their futures. The opportunities are amazing. Whether your thing is building and racing a Formula 24 car, playing rugby, or keeping bees and chickens, there is something to excite and inspire everyone.
What are the qualities of a great teacher?
your pupils describe you? Kind, caring, fair, and, I hope, occasionally inspiring. I think they appreciate that I care about their experiences of school and want to make that as positive and exciting as possible.
The secret to being a great teacher is the ability to understand and connect with each and every student and to know what makes them tick, as well as how they learn most effectively. The one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. Each individual is unique and works, thinks and learns in different ways. A great teacher can adapt what they do to get the best out of every pupil. What have you been most proud of since being Head of King’s High School? So many things! The way in which our whole community responded to the challenges of the pandemic, especially the closure of schools and periods of remote learning was truly exceptional. I couldn’t have been prouder of everyone for their remarkable dedication, commitment and care. I’ve also been hugely impressed by our students’ work in the community, whether through our partnerships with Evergreen School and the award-winning charity, Kissing it Better, or the simple acts of kindness to brighten up someone’s day. And I have to add being named Independent Senior School of the Year! Time machine or magic wand? Magic wand. Every good Head needs a magic wand! Netflix or Kindle? Netflix. I love to read more than anything, but I need a hard copy book rather than a Kindle.
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 11 EDUCATION Open Evening Friday 16 September 2022 Book your place at kingshighwarwick.co.uk/openevening For 2023 entry, register by 21 September 2022 for the King’s High Entrance Examination on Saturday 1 October 2022 at kingshighwarwick.co.uk/admissions 2GUIDESCHOOLS019WESTMIDLANDSINDEPENDENTSECONDARYSCHOOLOFTHEYEAR
Parents are able to instil a sense of responsibility and accountability in their kids, track chores for weekly pocket money and use points accrued for certain privileges for their children and teens.
12 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk PARENTING
dilemmahomework
It can be useful to start a session by running through a video with your child. Depending on their age, you may want to run through the video first before looking over it with them. This also really helps you focus and ensures you have your head around the topic sufficiently to be able to help explain it further to your child or answer their questions.
If the methods that your child uses are not familiar to you, don’t worry. YouTube, BBC Bitesize, Oak Academy and IXL are your friends. Simply type into Google your child’s year and the topic that they are studying (often found at the top of the worksheet) and the subject e.g. Year 4, bus stop method, maths..
By Jemma Zoe Smith As children settle back in at school for a new academic year, parents also settle back into the routine of being called upon by their children to help them with homework. But what if you have very limited time, you are not across the school’s expectations or you simply aren’t familiar with the topic?
As a busy parent, you may only have a short amount of time in which to work with your child. Make sure that you both have clear expectations about what you will be able to achieve. If you only have twenty minutes, you may not be able to finish their homework together but you may be able to tackle a few key problems before they complete the rest themselves. So that your time with them is productive, set goals and a timer. Goals help you prioritise and the timer prevents you from watching the clock. Your child will also have your undivided attention during this time.
The
The app is essentially a motivational tool that creates some healthy competition with a points and rewards system for each of the daily, weekly and monthly household contributions of each family member.
Jemma Zoe Smith is Director of The Education Hotel (www.educationhotel.co.uk).
At the end of each session, write down what you have covered in three bullet points. That way if your child gets another homework on the same topic, you can remember what you covered. These will also come in handy if you have a younger child or for end of year tests.
Choreful is now available on App Store and Google Play.
If your child is struggling with something specific, reach out to the school and ask them if they can point you in the direction of some practice that you can do with your child. Remember you are all on the same team. Use parents evening to ask what topics are coming up and to find out when exams are. Forewarned is forearmed.
This year I supported two students with exam preparation and covered over fifteen different subjects with them - only three of those subjects are my specialism. So here is what I have learnt about supporting children in subjects in which you are not confident yourself.
New app helps turn chores into a game Fighting over household chores (as well as the avoidance of them) can be a significant source of conflict between parents and children, not to mention spouses.
A new app has just been launched which promises to revamp how families divvy up life’s daily responsibilities, turning tedium into a fun and competitive game that both parents and kids can enjoy and benefit from.
bablake open morning 9.30 am-12.30pm Saturday 24th September Contact Admissions 02476 271248 familiesonline.co.uk editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 13 PARENTING
When a child is absorbed and ‘in the flow’ of an imaginative game it makes perfect sense to have all their materials and playthings spread out all around them. While it may look like chaos to us, having everything at hand means a child can stretch their creativity by using all the different items around them in new combinations.
Evenoverwhelming.teenagers
Getting children to tidy up
What parent or carer hasn’t felt weary at the sight of yet more trucks, play figures, crayons and LEGO® bricks to pick up at the end of the day?
The first step to teaching children to help tidy up is to understand how ‘mess’ looks from their point of view. It can be useful to schedule clean-up time at the same time every day, such as the interval just before a mealtime, to establish a habit.
Playtime, particularly messy play, is vital to children’s development because it helps them understand how the world works, as well as using their senses and imagination. But it shouldn’t stop there; tidying up is a great opportunity to help children develop cognitive skills, like sorting.
What’s more, asking them to transition back to a reality in which they are no longer in control can feel like a physical and mental wrench. To help ease this, while your child is still playing, give them advance notice that it will soon be time to wrap up. Try something like: ‘One more game with your dinosaurs and then we can put them to sleep in their normal house (the toy box) until tomorrow.’ Just telling a child generally to tidy up can feel
may not know where to start with tidying up, so little children will definitely need a helping hand. Make it clear it’s a job you will start together and then be specific about the tasks you want them to do. Make tidying up fun by putting on music and setting a time limit, so small children see it as a game they are playing with you. To make the task more achievable, as well as helping to develop their sorting skills, you could also suggest picking up just one type of toy at a time. Try something like: ‘You pick up all the blocks while I pick up all the crayons.’
Bear in mind that if a child has been playing a fantasy game, they will be really proud of the little world they have created. So while your request to tidy up is perfectly reasonable, they may hear it as a request to destroy what they have just made.
Tanith Carey is a parenting writer. With clinical psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin, she is co-author of What’s My Child Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents, published by DK which is filled with practical tips for raising children ages 2 to 7.
By Tanith Carey
As soon as they make a start, acknowledge how your child is helping so they have the confidence to keep it up. Once the kids are as quick as you, try turning tidying up into a race. Finally it helps to reframe your expectations. A family home doesn’t have to be a show place. See tidying up at the end of the day as a sign your child has explored the limits of their imagination to the full. When your child helps you pick up their playthings after a busy play session, you are on the right path.
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 Maker available10
The game with flowers and leaves which make little panda, Sam, sneeze! Suitable for two to four players. Ages 4+
Belinda Wells is our Emotional Resilience Expert with 30 years’ experience helping children and families to understand and manage emotions and behaviour. This issue, we put the questions you asked about your children to her.
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
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ASK THE EXPERT
Q. Why can't I get through to my son? He doesn't understand me. James, Warwick. We communicate and learn in several ways. Some of us are visual, some auditory, some learn through feelings so are kinaesthetic and some are processors. Although we can do all of these, we have a preferred style. Yours may be different to your son's. Find out what each of your preferences are, then you can learn to speak to your son, in a way he understands. If you have a question you’d like to ask our experts, please email editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk by Friday 30th September and you could feature in our next issue.
Yes, but perhaps not in the way you think. There will be a reason. Maybe something has happened making her reluctant to go in. If so, school should deal with this. But often children just miss Mum or fear you will be late at home time. Work out the cause. Ask her. (But not at drop off time!) Then make sure she knows it is very unlikely but agree exactly what would happen in the event of the fear occurring, so she has a clear plan.
Q. My son can be very disruptive. What can I do about this behaviour? Jon, Kenilworth.
Q. My daughter clings and cries at the school gate. Is this just attention seeking? Lisa, Coventry.
Q. My daughter constantly asks 'why'. How do I deal with this? Fran, Stratford upon Avon. This can be frustrating, but as hard as it may sound, you don't need to answer everything. The more you answer, the more she will ask. Think about your questions too. Asking a child 'why', keeps them stuck. Ask 'what' or 'how' questions instead. These make a child think subconsciously and your conversations will be more meaningful.
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Q. Other children seem to be doing better at school. Should I be worried? Sarah, Leamington. We all learn things at different times and in different ways. Don't measure your child against others. We are all unique. Look at your child's strengths and build on them. Ask school if extra help can be provided in areas your child struggles with. But don't worry, don't allow your child to think there is anything wrong, and seek help if there is real concern.
Firstly, find and recognise the purpose of the behaviour. Children don't behave badly without reason. It will be an emotional need not being met, that often as adults we don't see. All behaviour is driven by emotion. Disruptive behaviour is usually about the child's own self-worth or confidence at some level.
T&C’s apply 14 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families Warwickshire have teamed up with a panel of experts in all manner of subjects to answer your questions.
Art and craft
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! 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!
By Isabell Fisher
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 15 HALF-TERM FUN
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.
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.
Screen-free rainy day activities
Baking
Playdough 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.
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.
Boosted books 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
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. 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.
Design a board game
Treasure hunt 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.
22 - 30 Oct 2022 Magic of Get up close to a Ford Anglia from the Harry Potter films and join our mad scientists for some experiments!mind-blowing britishmotormuseum.co.uk/families J12 M40, Gaydon, Warwickshire, CV35 0BJ Taylor, 10. FutureScienceScientist Buy 1 day get months12free OctoberHT-magicofscience-advert-families-87x130-Aug22.indd 1 18/08/2022 12:49 Families Warwickshire familiesonline.co.uk The work of the RSC is supported by the Culture Recovery Fund The work of the RSC Literary Department is generously supported by The Drue and H.J. Heinz II Charitable Trust 26 OCTOBER 2022 –1 JANUARY 2023 ROYAL SHAKESPEARE STRATFORD-UPON-AVONTHEATRE Participation and supervision ratios apply — please see our website. Featuring: Sundown Treetop Challenge Xpress, Treetop Adventure, Axe Throwing and Mini Landrovers. book at goape.co.uk #FindYourAdventure CoVENtRYCooMBE abBEY
