Families Surrey West Jan Feb 2023 Print

What’s on Early years Education Days out

Put a spring in your child’s step with Perform

Happy spring term! Perform confidencebuilding classes are sure to blow away the winter cobwebs and will help children feel energised and inspired. This term sees 4-7s trapezing and somersaulting into a Circus Adventure whilst 7-12s work on a fun and funky adaptation of Robin Hood, in Outlaw. Imaginations will soar as children work towards a magical performance for family and friends.

Perform is not like other children’s drama schools. Its classes have a special emphasis on child development, using a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Run by experienced actor-teachers, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration. With all abilities welcome, children can join at any point in the term and will take part in the performance. The only requirement is to get ready to have the best fun of the week!

Children are welcome to try a FREE class, with lots of local classes, there’s sure to be a class near you. Find the right class and book at www.perform.org.uk/try or contact 020 7255 9120 or email enquiries@perform.org.uk

Local Perform Classes in West Surrey: Christchurch Hall, Guildford (Ages 4-7 Sat 9.30am & 11.15am, Wed 4pm. Ages 7-12 Sat 2pm, Wed 5.05pm)

Hoe Valley Community Building, Woking (Ages 4-7 Wed 4pm. Ages 7-12 Wed 5.05pm)

Moorcroft Centre, Woking (Ages 4-7 Sat 9.30am & 11.15am. Ages 7-12 Sat 2pm)

Haslewey Community Centre, Haslemere (Ages 4-7 Tues 4pm. Ages 7-12 Tues 5.05pm)

St Peter And St Paul Church Hall, Godalming (Ages 4-7 Fri 4pm. Ages 7-12 Fri 5.05pm)

Farnham Maltings (Ages 4-7 Wed 4pm. Ages 7-12 Wed 5.05pm)

Local women and mum’s singing group welcoming new members!

The Singing Collective is a singing group for women and mums that focus on singing for joy and wellbeing. There’s no sheet music, no backing tracks, no judgement and no requirement to perform. Every Monday evening a group of women meet at the Haslemere Methodist Church at 7.30pm and every Wednesday morning a group of women, including lots of mums with their babies and toddlers, meet at 10am at Hammer Hall. The group always start with hot drinks and biscuits and a chance to chat and settle in before there is 45 minutes of singing simple songs with stunning harmonies. The songs are taught and led by Harriet Roberts who runs The Singing Collective. Contact Harriet on singingcollectivechoir@gmail.com or 07947 304717. www.thesingingcollective.com

Monkey Music launch new classes in Cranleigh

Monkey Music offer award winning music classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers from 3 months old. Their established classes have been well regarded nationally for 30 years. Currently at St John’s Stoke (Guildford), Godalming Masonic Hall and Shalford Village Hall, they are excited to be launching classes in January at Cranleigh Arts Centre. Run by professional musicians, these classes weave together child development, social interaction and sensory play to teach a solid musical base in a fun stimulating environment. Book a free taster class at: www.monkeymusic.co.uk/area/guildford-godalming-shalford

St Catherine’s awarded the Primary Science Quality Mark

St Catherine’s School, Bramley are thrilled to announce that they have been awarded the Primary Science Quality Mark. Congratulations to Mrs Kelly, who leads the Science Curriculum and who has championed the year-long programme which has led to St Catherine’s Prep School achieving this prestigious award. PSQM is the only National Award Scheme to develop and celebrate the quality of Science teaching and learning in Primary schools.

The PSQM assessors found that ”Scientific enquiry is embedded at St Catherine’s and it is clear to see that the girls are enthused and excited by Science”. To find out more about St Catherine’s please visit www.stcatherines.info. Personal visits are welcome by appointment. To book a 1:1 visit or join their next Open Morning, please contact the Prep School Registrar, Sarah Waller on 01483 988757 or email prepadmissions@stcatherines.info.

www.surreytheatreacademy.co.uk

Musical Theatre Dance Acting Holiday Camps LAMDA Ages

4-18

Is your school looking to upgrade their playground?

Playscene are a family run business based in Hampshire, they have over 20 years’ experience and are knowledgeable in creating unique and exciting playground environments for schools and communities across the Southeast.

Playscene have worked with many local schools on a range of different schemes, they understand the benefits that come from play, particularly in a child’s early years where imagination, confidence, judgement, and social awareness are developed alongside physical activity.

Offering expertise in anything play for schools, they pride themselves on going that extra mile! They manage the whole process from the initial consultation to completion, allowing for a smoother process and attention to detail. They can provide a full and comprehensive range of playground equipment and services, including creative playground markings, colourful outdoor furniture, outdoor multifunctional classrooms, fitness and trail equipment as well as a range of safety surfacing, there is something to suit all budgets. They are big enough to cope and small enough to care!

Visit www.play-scene.co.uk, scan the QR code or call Emma on 01252 641740.

New 2-hour party package at AirHop Guildford

AirHop Trampoline Park Guildford which already offers various birthday party packages for all ages has just launched a new 2-hour party package: After Dark Premium UV Parties.

These are bookable during their 2-hour After Dark sessions on Friday and Saturday evenings where the disco lights are switched on and the club music is turned up.

After Dark parties include a 75-minute bounce, followed by Dominos pizzas and slushies in a party room for 45 minutes. All guests also receive a party bag and there are UV accessories provided to properly glow up any party!

Party host, set-up and clean-up are all provided as well, all you need to do is pick a date, invite your guests and leave the rest to the party team at AirHop. Party planning couldn’t be any easier and 100% stress-free.

At £24.95 per person this is fantastic value plus they have a generous 3-day cancellation policy. If the After Dark session isn’t for you, you can still have an Extreme UV, Premium or MiniHopper party instead.

For more information and online bookings head to airhop-guildford.com/parties.

Wear a Hat for a better future!

Wear A Hat Day, an iconic and fun annual event, is one of the UK’s most popular and family-friendly charitable fundraisers and it’s happening again on Friday, 31 March!

Running for more than ten years, this event raises millions for vital research into brain tumours – the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40. Wear A Hat Day events help children explore their individuality and creativity, whilst learning to work together and think of others – in a really fun way.

Participation fosters friendships, creates better local and school communities, offers unique learning opportunities and provides new ways for children to explore ideas around different life experiences, all while giving hope to brain tumour patients and their loved ones. Join this event, as a family or by persuading your local school to take part. Register now for more information and your FREE fundraising pack. Just use the quick and easy webform at www.wearahatday.org

Bramley Oak Academy is hiring!

Are you looking for a fulfilling job supporting local children with social, emotional and mental health needs? Do you want to join a dedicated team of skilled, friendly and compassionate staff?

Bramley Oak Academy can help you progress or kickstart your career as an education professional. The school, located near Guildford, offers specialist provision for boys aged 5-11 years old and is looking to recruit:

* Class teachers for classes of 6-8 children

* Teaching assistants working 39 weeks a year during school hours

* Support staff including behaviour mentors

Benefits include: competitive pay, pension, new starter and retention bonuses and regular training opportunities.

For further information please scan the QR code or visit www.bramleyoakacademy.org.uk

Merrist Wood launch new holiday club

A new holiday club is running at Merrist Wood College, Worplesdon near Guildford this half term from Mon 13 - Fri 17 February. They will be running an Animal week and a Wildlife and Conservation week with loads of fun activities such as archery and mandala art. For more details see the back page.

By Gabrielle Nash

Clever ways to get your child eating healthily

Do mealtimes fill you with dread? Does your child have little interest in broccoli and beans? encouraging your child to eat healthily is a dilemma many parents face. Whether you’re trying baby-led weaning or desperate to get vegetables into a pre-schooler, we’ve got some top tips on how to give your child the best start at the dinner table.

DO’s and DON’Ts of Mealtimes

DO get your child involved

Even if they can’t chop the vegetables, can they wash them? Psychologists suggest giving a child an element of control will help them engage with mealtimes.

DON’T allow snacks 1-2 hours before mealtimes

Even something small can lessen a child’s appetite – if they come to the table hungry, they’re more likely to eat and even try something new. Sticking to similar times for snacks and meals will also help.

DO have a family meal

Often bad behaviour at the dinner table stems not from poor eating but wanting attention. Even if you don’t eat, can you sit with your little one and talk to them about their food?

DON’T insist on clean plates, especially if you bribe them to finish

While tempting, berating your child until they finish their food and offering a treat like chocolate doesn’t work. Children are good at regulating their appetites and always insisting on finishing food can lead to problems later in life. Remember: it’s the parent’s job to provide, the child’s job to decide.

DO model good eating behaviour

Your own anxiety towards food can contribute to poor eating in children. Think about how you approach and talk about food.

DON’T offer alternatives

Or if you have more than one child, don’t make separate meals. If a child comes to expect yoghurt, toast or cereal when they don’t eat, they will soon learn to refuse even favourite meals.

DO encourage and praise, stress does not encourage a child to eat

Show them how you enjoy YOUR food. Don’t try “they’re good for you” when commenting on e.g. green beans, have a think about using statements like “these are so juicy” “eating lots of food gives me lots of energy for playing with you”.

Children cannot understand the concept of health. Can you show your child what eating well does? Whether it’s being able to scoot really fast up the road, or racing their friend down the slide, those concepts are easier to understand. Remember, you’re in charge of what food is in the kitchen. If you buy healthier options, you and your child will be less tempted by unhealthier ones. If children grow up in a family with a healthy and varied approach to food, they will develop that too. So eat varied, fresh food and eat it with pleasure.

Follow Gaby @thelondonishmum

Dr Pandora Giles from the University of East London works with parents and children. She suggests following some top ideas for encouraging young children to eat healthily.

1. Make meal times fun. Chat, sing and talk about the food. What colour is it? Where do potatoes come from? Playing and laughing works much better than a stern instruction.

2. Encourage food play. Make a face out of fruit or make a forest with broccoli! Desensitizing children to tastes and textures will make them more likely to try new foods.

3. When introducing new foods, offer them alongside a favourite food.

4. If your child is eating little but drinking a lot of e.g. milk or even juice, think about cutting back and only offering water in between meals.

5. Have clear mealtimes that last around 20 minutes. Longer than that it can get stressful or boring for everyone!

6. Eat with your child when possible and offer some encouragement, although some children may find even that stressful.

7. It’s never too early or too late to start. Even if you’re still pregnant or breastfeeding, your nutrition could have an impact so try to get a good varied diet. With older children, tastes change so it’s never too late to introduce some variety.

Early Years

Tackling toddler tantrums

By Sarah Ockwell-Smith

The ‘terrible twos’ aren’t called that for nothing! This stage of a child’s life is all about big feelings. Scientifically, it relates to the undeveloped prefrontal brain cortex which means the child is unable to regulate their own emotions. What most of us refer to as a tantrum is an expression of pure frustration. What is a tantrum?

Despite frequently being referred to as ‘toddler tantrums,’ they can happen at any age, right into adulthood. Tantrums describe the state of an individual who is out of control, full of big emotions and stress hormones and unable to calm themselves down. As adults with fully developed brains we have to learn to manage our emotions, calm ourselves down or rather self soothe.

Toddlers don’t possess these skills; not yet anyway. They are not being naughty or manipulative, they are simply being toddlers. Tantrums are a normal and exceedingly common feature of child development. Research has found that nearly nine in ten children between 18 months and 2 years regularly have tantrums, with most having at least one a day, lasting on average between thirty and sixty seconds (although it is not uncommon for them to occur far more frequently and last for much longer).

‘No’ to the naughty step

Contrary to popular belief, ignoring, shaming or punishing tantrums can make a toddler’s behaviour much worse. These approaches ignore a child’s difficult underlying feelings and don’t resolve the cause or help the toddler regulate their behaviour. Experts have discovered just how much infant brains are affected by the level of parental care they receive. With nurturing attention, the part of their brains responsible for regulating emotion become better

naughty steps, sent for time outs, punished or ignored when they are perceived to be ‘naughty,’ in the long term they will

Practical steps

You cannot stop tantrums. And they are not a sign of poor parenting. Keep in mind that they are a normal, passing stage of child development, caused by immature brain development.

In time your toddler will grow out of them. Until then, understanding and a lot of patience is the best way forward.

Try to identify and reduce triggers to prevent tantrums where you can. This might be when your child is hungry, doesn’t want to share their favourite toy or walk a single step more.

Keep the toddler (and others) safe during the tantrum. If you can, move to a quieter space with your child. Stay calm and hold your boundary; supporting and nurturing isn’t about giving in.

Help your toddler to calm down once the tantrum is over. Distraction can be a good technique, pointing them towards something more pleasant to focus on.

The best way to show care during tantrums is to mirror calmness yourself. Easier said than done in a supermarket aisle admittedly but the rewards will be there in the long term.

Who’s in charge?

Well, as the parent or carer, you are responsible for all the big decisions around bedtime, meal times and the day’s activities. Your developing child may have other ideas, however:

Q. My toddler’s favourite words at the moment are ‘me do it.’ If I don’t let her do whatever it is, then she has a huge tantrum. What can we do?

introduced his idea of using containment when children are not yet able to manage their feelings alone. The concept describes children’s big, difficult feelings. When a child expresses anger, calmness, control and regulation, helping the child to become

A. Toddlers really struggle with a desire for independence and an innate drive for autonomy. It’s all part of growing up and learning to be confident without you, which is a good thing in the long term. As important as it is, it’s also incredibly frustrating! The answer is to offer your toddler as much control as possible over areas of her life where it’s age appropriate. For instance, allowing her to choose her own clothes in the morning and letting her direct her own play. The more control she is given by you, the less she will feel frustrated and tantrum.

Sarah Ockwell-Smith is the author of Beginnings, a book published by Piatkus, which offers a guide to child psychology and development for parents of children ages 0 to 5.

Guildford, Godalming, Shalford, Cranleigh E: guildford@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01483 821932

Cranleigh Arts Centre (Thursday)

Godalming Masonic Hall (Tuesday & Thursday)

Guildford St John’s Stoke Church (Wednesday)

Shalford Village Hall (Monday & Friday)

Nurseries at Independent Schools

St Hilary’s Nursery and Kindergarten

St Hilary’s Nursery and Kindergarten provides an ideal introduction to your child’s education. The Early Years have their own colourful and fun indoor and outdoor learning areas, but also benefit from using the facilities available in the wider school, including specialist teaching in outdoor learning, music and gym. St Hilary’s prides itself on giving each child the individual attention to support their development. Contact the Admissions Manager (registrar@ sthilarysschool.com) for more information.

Barrow Hills School Nursery

Nursery children develop new skills by choosing to play alongside or with their peers in the calm, warm environment of their bright, well-equipped classroom and covered outside area. Experienced staff guide them in their learning and provide a range of engaging activities. Kindy children experience a play-based curriculum, which also allows specialist teaching in maths, French, ballet and sport. www.barrowhills.org

St Andrew’s Nursery

St. Andrew’s School is a respected and thriving co-educational Prep School, set in 11 acres of grounds near Woking. The Nursery offers its young pupils a great start to their education, fostering lifelong learning in a happy environment of trust and support. There are excellent facilities and beautiful grounds, with wonderful spaces to play and learn. Above all, children make friends for life, leaving as confident well-rounded young people ready for their education ahead. www.st-andrews.woking.sch.uk

Benefits of early reading

The Nursery at Ripley Court School

The Nursery is part of a thriving prep school, set on 19 acres and offering indoor and outdoor learning environments including Forest School. The Nursery has a warm and stimulating atmosphere and the dedicated staff are committed to providing the best possible start to a child’s education journey. Housed in its own purpose-built area but a fully integrated part of Ripley Court school, the Nursery shares specialist French, Swimming, Dance, Music, and Forest School teachers. Contact details: 01483 225217 www.ripleycourt.co.uk registrar@ripleycourt.co.uk

Rydes Hill Nursery

Many happy days await Rydes Hill Nursery children as they ignite their natural curiosity and joy at discovering the world around them. The children benefit from being part of the school community, tapping into specialist teachers to experience Forest School, Music, Drama, Cooking, Dance and more! Rydes Hill inspires imaginations and creates capable learners to help prepare them for a positive transition to Reception. Contact details: 01483 563160. Email: Jacqui.oneill@rydeshill.com

By Liz Walker from www.readingchest.co.uk

One of the best things you can do for your children’s education is to encourage an interest in books from the earliest age. Children who have enjoyed sharing books in their early years are more likely to develop a love of reading themselves. Reading aloud to your children will also help them to develop a rich vocabulary and improve listening and comprehension skills.

Although it is quite hard to imagine, some children begin school not knowing which way up a book goes, or how to turn the pages. Becoming familiar with books and understanding how they work are

important steps of learning to read and should start as early as possible. Pre-school children who are read to frequently will gradually learn how books work - that a book has a front and back and that you read from left to right. As children get older, it is also good to point other things out, such as - words are made up of letters and there are spaces between the words. Later, as children learn letters and sounds, they can have fun pointing out those they recognise. Children may also start to recognise high frequency words such as ‘and’ and ‘the’.

When your child is ready to start their own reading journey, visit readingchest.co.uk, for advice and access to a wide variety of books for young readers. Families Surrey West readers can use the discount code FAMSW to get £5 off their 1st month’s subscription.

By Dorothy Lepkowska

Early Years Surviving separation anxiety

It’s a common scenario; the toddler who actively resists being left with anyone else, struggling to separate from parents or loved ones. So what can you do to make separating from your toddler easier?

Most children go through a phase of being overly attached to one or both parents at some point in their early years. The tears can make leaving them at nursery or with a childminder heart breaking.

Kate Harding’s toddler would cling to her every morning when they arrived at nursery. ‘She wasn’t upset when she woke up in the morning, or even in the car as we drove to her early years setting but once it was time for me to leave it was the same every day’ Kate says. ‘She would cling to my leg and literally have to be peeled off by one of the staff. Often I’d leave upset and in tears myself. On those days, no amount of reassurance from her key person that she was well and thriving would make me feel better.’

Important for resilience

Experts say that it’s completely normal for young children to go through what could be described as a clingy phase and it’s an important part of their development.

For many, anxiety at being separated from a parent begins at six to nine months. It’s around this time that babies become conscious that they are separate little beings and are not the same person as their parent. For some, this clinginess can last for a couple of years or more and can get worse when they go to nursery or a childminder.

As difficult as it is to be separated from a crying, anxious child, it’s best not to avoid leaving them. Explaining why you need to be apart, saying goodbye, telling them when you will be back and reinforcing the positives of this is all part of teaching your child how to be resilient. Take a deep breath and walk away. Your child is in safe hands and will thrive, as they will discover for themselves over time.

Kate says: ‘I would tell my daughter that I had to go to work so we had money and remind her how much fun it would be to play with her friends. Often this did the trick.’

Checking in by phone

Getting used to new surroundings

Nurseries and pre-school settings understand the importance of a settling-in period before your child starts officially. You might stay with your child for several sessions, gradually leaving them for longer periods. Your child’s key person will work with you to settle your child. This helps them get used to their new surroundings and helps you both become familiar with the staff and children.

Remember, this is all new for your child so it’s not surprising they might feel uncertain or anxious.

‘I always tried not to sneak out of the nursery when leaving’ says Kate, ‘but to give her a kiss, wish her a good day and wave through the window. At times it was hard to stay calm and collected while she was upset but as she got to know the routine the crying stopped. In any event, even at her worst, the staff always assured me that she calmed down once I’d gone and got on with the day’s activities. It was probably worse for me, in fact!’

Dorothy Lepkowska is an award-winning journalist, author and writer for the Early Years Alliance (www.eyalliance.org.uk). You can read more of her parenting features at www.familycorner.co.uk

Early years experts say that while parents might be tempted to seek reassurance that their child is okay by returning to the setting, this can be disruptive and unsettle their child all over again. All that is achieved is the transference of the parent’s anxiety. Instead, a quick phone call to the staff is usually enough to reassure you that everything is going well. However, if a toddler remains unduly upset by separation for a prolonged period it might be worth investigating if there are other reasons for them feeling unsettled. Talk to your child’s key person or childminder about your concerns. They are best placed to advise you what is best for your child, even if this means delaying their start at the setting for a few weeks or extending their settling in period.

Kate adds: ‘My own experience and those of other parents I know, is that this separation anxiety is a temporary thing. There will come a day they run in without even a kiss goodbye.’

Talking to children about Climate Change

By Valentina Giannella

Being a parent is a tough job. The trickiest part is making sure we tell our children the truth, without simultaneously causing them to be either overanxious or delusional about the future. It applies to an extensive range of aspects in life, and climate change is a relatively new but undeniable one.

My children were 10 and 7 years old when we first started talking about the environmental challenges facing humanity. Even as a journalist who has dealt with such topics for years, I was frankly terrified of this task. Writing an article is one thing: facing their worried questions was entirely another.

Then, a young girl showed up. Greta Thunberg was everywhere online, with her yellow raincoat and a straightforward concept: we have to DO something to save our planet, or there’s going to be trouble. Action: that was the key. If you know that there is something you can do about a problem – even the smallest thing, anything that is within your power –you feel less hopeless. Less scared.

Here are some of the questions that children -and their parents - have been asking me about Climate Change and the answers that seem to help them.

My child gets anxious about the future of humankind: what should I say?

Talk frankly, but also help them understand the everyday actions that we can all take to tackle the main issues related to Climate Change. Action is the best cure for fear. Stop using disposable plastic; start using re-fillable water bottles; make sure you recycle correctly; re-use; exchange instead of buying new things; save energy; save water; walk and cycle more; use public transport or shared transportation. Show your child we can all make a difference and

that if everyone does the same, the future looks more positive.

“What is Climate Change?” – how to answer

The earth is our home, and it is nestled within a precious shelter that is called the atmosphere. Inside the atmosphere, we and other creatures can breathe and live. For nearly 200 years we have used something called fossil fuel (carbon and oil), which we burn in order to fuel our working world, in everything from factories to transportation. Every time we burn fossil fuels, or cut down trees, the atmosphere temperature rises a tiny bit because the gas (mostly a gas called carbon dioxide) that comes from this burning becomes trapped inside the atmosphere. This means the earth cannot release the heat that it receives from the sun. This is called Global Warming.

As the temperature rises, the climate changes. This brings heavy rains or severe drought, diverts the sea currents and disrupts the natural habitat of many species. It also means that the sea level is rising due to the ice melting in the Poles. All of these are the main effects of Climate Change.

What can help me communicate the key facts to my child?

It helps to introduce a hero character that allows children to engage their imagination while they absorb abstract information. Greta Thunberg is a perfect medium for these concepts. Discover other children who have also made a

difference – like William Kamkwamba, who inspired the book and film The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind.

Who is Greta Thunberg?

Greta is a child who loves to be “in the know” about what is happening to our planet. She comes from a family of scientists and artists, she has studied the facts, and she is not afraid of being in the spotlight. This combination worked well when she decided it was time to speak out and gain attention from the world about the danger we are facing and what we should be doing to avoid it.

Where can we learn more about this?

Sometimes, the news can be challenging for children to understand because it only illuminates part of a problem. Also, some headlines can be scary. Suggest that your child come to you with their questions and look for scientific sources together. Bookshops and the internet (reliable websites such as www.climatekids.nasa.gov) can give a wider view. Look for sources that have been translated in a way that is understandable for younger ages.

Valentina Giannella is the author of We Are All Greta: Be Inspired to Change the World published by Laurence King and available from Amazon and good book stores.

Independent School Open Days

Please contact schools to find out if you need to book for their open day

School Open Day Date

Barrow Hills School, Witley 01428 683639 Mixed 2-13 years.

Belmont School Holmbury St Mary 01306 730852 Mixed 3-16 years.

Cranmore School. Boys 2-16 years and girls 2-7 years.

Ripley Court School 01483 225 217 Mixed 3-11 years.

Fri 24 Feb 9.45am.

Early Years/Prep: Tues 28 Feb 10am.

Senior School: Fri 24 Feb 9.30am.

Fri 12 May.

Nursery taster morning Wed 25 Jan. Enjoy a fun-filled morning in the Nursery and find out more about Ripley Court School. Children and their parents are welcome to attend.

The Royal School, Hindhead Mixed 6 weeks-18 years.

Rydes Hill Preparatory School & Nursery, Guildford 01483 544973 Girls 3-11 years, Boys 3-7 years.

St Andrews School, Horsell 01483 760943 Mixed 3-13 years.

St Catherine’s School, Bramley 01483 899665 Girls 4-18 years.

Pre-prep: Tues 17 Jan. Prep: Fri 24 Feb.

Please contact the school for a personal tour with the headmistress.

Fri 10 March 9am-11am, Fri 12 May 9am-11am.

Fri 3 Feb 9.45am Thurs 9 March 9.45am Fri 12 May 9.45am.

St Edmund’s School, Hindhead Mixed 2-16 years. Sat 4 Feb 10am-12pm.

St Hilary’s School, Godalming 01483 416551 Mixed 2-11 years.

St Ives School, Haslemere Mixed 2-11 years.

Fri 10 March.

Fri 3 Feb 9.30-11am, Fri 3 March 9.30-11am.

Ten top tips for alleviating children’s anxiety

By Claire Moreau

Parenting is often marvellous and rewarding but it’s also complex, especially if your child is struggling with anxiety and you are unsure what to do next. Families asked Claire Moreau, a qualified mindfulness teacher, to share her tips for lessening children’s anxiety. Don’t be deceived by the simplicity of these…try putting them into practice – they do work!

4 Offer reassurance

7 Spend time in nature

1 Be fully present

Mobile phones are part of our lives and essential communication devices. Yet, the alerts and notifications keep us constantly looking at them and family members often have to compete. Being fully present with the activity or conversation we’re having with our children - without being distracted by mobile phones - demonstrates that we value 'real' time together over virtual communication with other people and that we are fully available.

Top tip: at mealtimes, get everyone to put their phones away for a set length of time.

2 Encourage children to express feelings

Children are more likely to express their feelings when they sense that we are fully available. Sitting in an area they pass by when returning from school or a weekend activity and gently inviting them to join us can be a start. Teenagers might be more reluctant than young children to express how they feel. Letting them know that we're ready to welcome whatever troubles them might not produce an immediate result, but, in time, it can prompt them to open up.

Top tip: tell them they have the right to feel overwhelmed or stressed – ‘it's okay not to be okay.’ Listen intently to them without moving into ‘fix-it mode.’ Sometimes they just need a steady, listening ear.

3 Encourage them to read

Reading not only provides a good alternative to screen time but it’s also relaxing. A 2009 study from the University of Sussex has found that reading can reduce stress by up to sixty eight percent. Just six minutes of relaxing into a good book can lower blood pressure and muscle tension. It’s a great distraction technique.

Top tip: reading can also become a special family moment—older children can read a story to younger siblings or parent and child can each read a page aloud.

Small steps can go a long way. If they worry about the future, bring them back to the present moment—'right here, right now, with you, all is well.' Tell them that you love them no matter what. These are both pillars of mindfulness. Create a family routine that dissolves their worries even if only for a short time - in my family, every other Friday evening, homemade pizza is sacred. We catch up while cooking, then we watch a film together.

Top tip: Empower them by doing something as a family to help the situation they are worrying about – for instance, organise a car boot sale or a family run to raise money for charity.

5 Enrol on a mindfulness course

There are many mindfulness apps/ recorded meditations for adults and children which may help them to relax and unwind. However, nothing compares with attending a course with a qualified mindfulness teacher. Such a course teaches key mindfulness skills that help children and adults identify and manage emotions, improve concentration, relax and strengthen inner resources. Parents and children can benefit from simple exercises that help establish a strong mindfulness practice.

Top tip: children’s courses are only taught in person but many adults courses are now delivered on Zoom so it is easier to fit them around family life.

6 Avoid fuelling anxiety

Children absorb emotions like sponges and if they don’t know how to manage them, they can feel frustrated, powerless and overwhelmed. Overhearing the news or emotionallycharged adult conversation can fuel children’s anxiety. Teenagers can be alarmed by news threads on social media. Besides climate change and Covid, younger generations are now worrying about the war in Ukraine and its potential consequences.

Top tip: Avoid watching/listening to the news with young children; talk to teenagers about the news threads they follow; keep adult conversation amongst adults. Without altogether avoiding sensitive topics, discussions can be held within families in an ageappropriate way.

The term nature-deficit disorder (NDD) was coined by Richard Louv in his 2005 book Last Child in the Woods. NDD can contribute to many problems, including higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. The good news is it can easily be reversed. Spending time in nature is easier than we think: village greens, parks, commons and nature reserves abound in the UK. They provide the perfect setting for free family activities. Walking, cycling or playing frisbee help lift the mood; watching nature's life cycle is always a treat.

Top tip: Swap a meal indoors for a picnic, yes, even if it is cold! Nothing beats a good walk or cycle ride before returning home to a hot drink or meal.

8 Struggling to fall asleep?

With little ones, creating a comforting, wind down routine can help (reading a book together, listening to soothing music). With teenagers, blocking the mobile phone at a set time is recommended. Finally, at all ages, placing hands on the belly, breathing easily and focusing on the breath, following the gentle movement of the belly that rises and falls. For the busy mind, counting the breath to ten (in – 1, out – 2, in – 3, out - 4, etc) over and over can quieten it.

Top tip: whatever their ages, no screens before bedtime.

9 Limit screen time

Research has found that too much screen time can lead to mental health issues in children, such as anxiety and depression. Most children prefer electronic media to playing and interacting with family and peers, which impacts their social development. Monitor screen time, ensure the content is age-appropriate, communicate with children about inappropriate images and model healthy device habits.

Top tip: playing board games, reading and listening to music are great alternatives. Ask your kids to help you discover their musical tastes – this can lead to rich conversations!

10 Speak to your GP

If, despite your best intentions and care, your child’s behaviour or anxiety level becomes worrying, it is best to seek medical advice. GPs can refer a child to a psychologist or occupational therapist with training in mental health.

Top tip: getting support for yourself while you're supporting your children is critical. Charities like www.youngminds. org.uk run a parent's helpline and provide free advice and support.

Claire has over ten years of meditation and yoga practice and three years of experience teaching mindfulness. For more information on her courses please visit www.bridgemakermindfulness.com.

What’s On Diary

MON 9 JANUARY

Little Twigs

Ripley Court School

9.30-11am. Woodland stay and play for children aged 18 months - 3 years with an adult. The sessions take place in Ripley Court’s Forest School which includes a bug hotel, mud kitchen and more. Enjoy a snack and hot chocolate at the end! £5 per child, please book online. Little Twigs runs every Monday in term time.

TUeS 10 JANUARY

Mini Gallery explorers

The Lightbox

Woking For under 5s with an adult. 11-11.40am. Spaces are allocated on a first come basis from 10.30am. Suggested donation £3.

WeD 11 JANUARY

Open Rehearsals

Farnham Youth Choir

For ages 6-18. Free open

Please check event details with organiser and to confirm if booking is needed

rehearsals for their three choirs at 5.15pm. Bursaryfunded places are available. To register please visit www.fyc.org.uk/joinus

FRI 13 JANUARY

Terrific Toys, Haslemere educational Museum

For under 5s with an adult. 1.30-2.30pm. Play with replicas of Victorian toys, plus a story and craft. Adult £1, child £2. Book online.

TUeS 17 JANUARY

Toddler Time

Rydes Hill School

Guildford 10am-11am. A mixture of fun and engaging activities run by specialist staff. Whilst younger siblings in arms are welcome, the sessions are best suited to children aged 18 months - 3 years with an adult. Runs every Tuesday morning in term time. Free, but booking online is essential.

Spring into Action at Godstone Farm!

11 - 19 February

Baby animals and a heap of activities to entertain your young adventurers, what’s not to love about February half term down on the farm? The winter can often seem long, so they’ve decided to bring spring forward with a range of interesting animal experiences, crafts and storytelling. There’s lots of wholesome fun added into the jam-packed schedule along with all the favourites of the farm such as their 500 resident animals, and cosy indoor play areas. Booking online gives you the best price guaranteed at www.godstonefarm.co.uk

NeW Zog Trail at Alice Holt Forest

Everyone’s favourite dragon is returning to Alice Holt Forest with a brand new family activity trail and free app! Get ready to join Zog on his latest forest adventure to collect golden stars as your little dragons learn how they can help care for the forest and how the forests can care for them. The new Zog trail launches on 30 January 2023. There’s lots more to do at Alice Holt Forest at this time of the year, explore the trails and discover different play areas before treating yourself in the lovely café.

Alice Holt Forest, Farnham. Sat Nav Postcode: GU10 4LS

elm Children’s Farm

At Elm Children’s Farm in Sutton Green, Guildford you can see alpacas, goats, Shetland ponies, pigs, ducks, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs and more. Plus there is a small play area suitable for under 5s. It is open 10am-3.30pm (last entry 3pm) and admission is £4pp and under 2s are free. Elm Farm Cafe is open Tues - Sun 9am-3.30pm (open daily in half term) serving homemade treats and light lunches.

WeD 18 JANUARY

Open Rehearsal

Farnham Youth Choir

See listing on 11 January.

FRI 20 JANUARY

Mini Painters

The Lightbox Woking For under 5s with an adult. 11-11.40am. £5 per child, adult free. Book online.

Watts Tots - Celebrate! Watts Gallery

Compton For under 5s with an adult. 10-11am or 11.30am-12.30pm. Join in with a collaborative piece to build a firework scene. £5, book online.

SAT 21 JANUARY

Water Colour Tall House

Cranleigh Arts Centre

Make a watercolour book mark. 9.3010.30am for ages 3-5 and 10.3011.30am for ages 6+. £8. Book online.

SUN 22 JANUARY

LeGO exhibition & Build Denbies Wine estate Dorking Buy tickets for one hour sessions which include brick building and play areas. 10am, 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm. £3.75 for ages 6+.

Under 5s free with paying adult. Book online. There is also a display of official and custom LEGO models (tickets not required for the display).

FRI 27 JANUARY

The Gingerbread Man

Haslemere educational Museum

For under 5s with an adult. 10.30-11.30am. Story, craft plus you will decorate a mini gingerbread man to take home. Adult £1, child £2. Book online.

Baby Cats Story Time

St Catherine’s Prep School Bramley 9.30-10.30am for ages 0-4 with an adult. Enjoy a storytime adventure through the engaging telling of a favourite children’s book. Free, but book online.

SAT 28 JANUARY

Big Garden Birdwatch Haslemere educational Museum

10.30am-1pm. Children and adults can have fun together

making bird cakes, doing crafts and discovering the birds in the grounds and galleries. Free. No need to book.

FRI 3 FeBRUARY

Watts Tots - Big & Bold

Watts Gallery

Compton 10-11am or 11.30am-12.30pm. For under 5s with an adult. Build, stack, paint and play on a large scale, with a giant landscape of cardboard boxes and see what you can create! £5, please book online.

SAT 4 FeBRUARY

Sweet Celebrations

Haslemere educational Museum

10.30am-12pm. For ages 5-11. Celebrate the 70th anniversary of the end to sweet rationing following WW2 by trying some old sweet recipes. Mem £5, non-mem £7. Book online.

Animal encounters Tour Merrist Wood College Guildford 11am-1pm or 2-4pm. Animal Encounter tours allow visitors to view the amazing animal collection at the College. £18 per person. Please book online.

Family Fun on the Pottery Wheel, Farnham Maltings 1-hour sessions at 10am, 11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm. £12 per person. All ages welcome, under 7’s must be accompanied by a paying adult. Please book online.

SUN 5 FeBRUARY

The Make Space

Watts Gallery

Compton 10.30-11.30am, 1-2pm and 3-4pm. Family arts and crafts. £3 + entry (entry is free for children, adults £13.50).

TUeS 7 FeBRUARY

Mini Gallery explorers

The Lightbox

Woking For under 5s with an adult. 11-11.40am. Spaces are allocated on a first come basis from 10.30am. Suggested donation £3.

Toddler Tuesday

Surrey Heath Museum

33 Obelisk Way, Camberley 10.30am-12pm. The Hare and the Tortoise story with games, craft and parachute. Drop-in session. £1.50.

What’s On Diary

TUeS 7 FeB CONT.

Fidgety Fish And Friends Haslemere educational Museum For under 5s with an adult. 1.30-2.30pm. Join in this story and learn about the friends living under the sea. Adult £1, child £2. Book online.

SAT 11 FeBRUARY

Footie Feb Half-Term Guildford Museum

Join the fun footie activities at the exhibition ‘Football! Stories from the Beautiful Game in Guildford and Beyond’. 12–4.30pm (last entry 4pm). Free. Suitable for ages 5+. Please see their website for further details.

SAT 11 - SUN 19 FeB

Spring into Action Godstone Farm

A range of animal experiences, crafts and storytelling. Plus over 500 animals, indoor play area and lots more fun. Booking recommended.

Please check event details with organiser and to confirm if booking is needed

National Trust Half Term Trails

Enjoy a sea-themed trail around Hatchlands parkland - see how many nautical themed ducks you can spot (included in admission). Enjoy a family trail through the garden at Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher or explore the fun trail at Winkworth Arboretum, Godalming (normal admission + small charge for the trail). At Polesden Lacey, Gt Bookam, there will be a fun bug trail inside the house. Look out for giant, knitted bugs hidden around the mansion (included in admission). There is also a brand new play area at Polesden Lacey. All trails are from 10am-3pm.

Half Term at Watts Gallery Compton For ages 5+. Visit the Faces of Fame exhibition and celebrate the people in the portraits. Take part in a creative workshop to interpret your own Hall of Fame, or listen into storytelling in the Galleries.

MON 13 FeBRUARY

Pyrography and Painting Workshops, G Live Guildford 10am-4pm for ages 7-11. £40. Book online.

LeGO exhibition & Build Denbies Wine estate See listing on 22 January.

Artbox Spring Workshop Farnham Maltings 10am-3pm. For ages 6-16. Explore a range of materials and techniques. £60. Please book online.

TUeS 14 FeBRUARY

Mini Monet: Water Lillies West end Centre Aldershot 10.30am-12.30pm. Arty fun for ages 5 + with an adult. £13 for one adult and child. Please book online.

3D Self Portraits

The Lightbox Woking 1.30-3.30pm for ages 5-7. Make your own self portrait sculpture. £9.50, accompanying adult free. Please book online.

LeGO exhibition & Build Denbies Wine estate See listing on 22 January.

Hearts And Crafts Haslemere educational Museum 10.30am-1pm. Heart themed arts & crafts. Mem £2, nonmem £4. Book online.

early Birds, Haslemere educational Museum 9-10am. Special opening for families with children who have an Autism Spectrum Condition. Booking essential. Entry by donation.

Crafty Kids Museum of Farnham 10am-12pm. For ages 3-7 with an adult. £3.50 per child. No booking needed.

Model Mayhem

Aldershot Military Museum 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm, 2pm, 2.30pm or 3pm. Try model soldier painting. Entry + £3, one model per session. For ages 3+ with an adult.

Dance in a Day

Princes Hall

Aldershot 10am-5pm. For ages 6-10. £21. Book online.

WeD 15 - SAT 18 FeB

Footie Feb Half-Term Guildford Museum See listing on 11 February.

THURS 16 FeBRUARY

Junior Animal Keeper experience

Guildford Spectrum

Guildford Spectrum offers a wide range of activities, including tenpin bowling, ice skating and four swimming pools. In the pools, you can show off your skills on the diving boards, race down the waterslides or test your stamina during a lane swimming session. Everyone can enjoy the indoor ice rink all year round, perfect for experienced skaters or beginners with the help of penguin skating aids. Challenge your friends and family to a game of bowling and show off your strike celebration! There’s also exciting soft play, ‘Specky’s Pirate Ship’ for your little ones to explore. All activities can be booked online.

AirHop

Rain or shine, skies are always blue at AirHop! Enjoy over 30,000sq ft of ultimate bouncing fun for kids and big kids with loads of attractions to keep the whole gang happy! Standard jump sessions are open to everyone aged 4+. Younger trampolining enthusiasts (6 months - 6 years) can explore the park in a safe and fun environment during dedicated MiniHopper Takeovers. These sessions include extra toys, ride-ons, a visit of a special guest and the ever-so popular bubble time. On Friday and Saturday 6-8pm you can experience the park in a cool club atmosphere during a 2-hour bargain After Dark session at £17.50 only. Find out more on airhop-guildford.com and #jumpintohappy.

Play in a Day, Princes Hall Aldershot 10am-5pm. For ages 7-11. £21. Book online. Urban Dance Fusion G Live Guildford 2-4pm. For ages 7-11. £12. Book online.

TUeS 14 - THURS 16 FeB

Love Hearts - Free Family Drop-in Activities Surrey History Centre 130 Goldsworth Rd, Woking During normal opening hours. Discover some of the love hearts found in the collection and have a go at free craft activities. For ages 3-10. Free parking onsite.

TUeS 14 - SAT 18 FeB

Fill a Cup of Kindness

Surrey Heath Museum Camberley 11am-4pm. For kindness week, children can come and write down good deeds to perform during the week. Certificate given. Free, drop-in session.

WeD 15 FeBRUARY

Family Drop-in: Big Art Fun, The Lightbox Woking Drop-in anytime from 1.30-4pm to draw your own fantastic figures in this large scale consequences style collaboration. Suggested donation £3.

Merrist Wood College Guildford For ages 11-14. Join the Animal Keepers for a day, working with a huge variety of animals including tortoises, rabbits, guinea pigs, reptiles, birds, meerkats and more. £70. Book online.

Craft Table West end Centre Aldershot 2-2.45pm or 3-3.45pm. Hands-on art for all the family. £3. Booking online is advised.

Graffiti Workshop

G Live Guildford 10am-4pm for ages 7-11. £40. Book online.

Crafty Kids Museum of Farnham See listing on 15 February.

Hand Casting and Drawing

The Lightbox Woking 1.30-3.30pm for ages 8-11. Learn how to draw hands and then create a cast mould of your hand. £12, please book online.

LeGO® Display and Open Build event, Cranleigh Arts Centre 10am, 12pm, 2pm or 4pm. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. £5 per person. Book online.

Godstone Farm

THURS 16 FeB CONT.

Amazing Ammonites

Haslemere educational Museum 10.30am12pm. For ages 5-11. Be inspired by the wonderful fossil ammonites and make ammonitebased works of art. Mem £5, non-mem £7. Book online.

FRI 17 FeBRUARY

Family Drop-In: Paper Tube Artists, The Lightbox Woking Drop-in from 1.30–4pm. Using recycled materials create your own version of famous artists. Suggested donation £3.

Children’s Pottery West end Centre Aldershot 10.30am-12.30pm for ages 3-7 with an adult. £13 for one adult and one child. Please book online.

Watts Tots - Big & Bold See listing on 3 February.

FRI 24 FeBRUARY

Baby Cats - Lets Get Creative

St Catherine’s Prep School Bramley 9.30-10.30am. Arts & crafts for ages 2-4 with an adult. Free, but you must book your place online.

Mini Painters, The Lightbox Woking For under 5s with an adult. 11-11.40am. £5 per child, adult free. Book online.

There’s A Monster Who eats Books, Haslemere educational Museum For under 5s with an adult. 10.30-11.30am. Listen to this fun story and find out how books are made and how children’s books in the past differ to those of today. Adult £1, child £2. Book online.

TUeS 28 FeBRUARY

Teens Craft - Indigo Tie

Dye, West end Centre Aldershot 6-8pm for ages 1317. £13. Please book online.

Synergy Dance Workshops

Synergy Dance will be running half and full day workshops in February half term at Guildford Spectrum, QEP Centre (Guildford) and venues in Godalming. The themed workshops are for children aged 5-12, in age appropriate groups. Activities include arts & crafts, dance, show & tell, parachute fun, games, their signature snow disco and more! For details and to book visit bit.ly/synergy-workshops

Baby and Children’s Market

On Saturday 4th February and Saturday 4th March from 10am-12pm at Normandy Village Hall, Glaziers Lane, Guildford, GU3 2DT. Lots of stalls bursting with top quality like new baby and children’s items from birth to 8 years. £2 entry, kids are free. Come and grab a bargain or book a stall and be a seller. Keep 100% profit on the day. For more information email ellie@babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk or visit www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk.

NeARLY NeW SALe

Children’s theatre

CAMBeRLeY THeATRe

The Jungle Book

Thurs 16 Feb 2pm. With original music, audience interaction, and bags of comedy. For ages 4+.

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

Thurs 23 Feb 11.30am. 15 month age limit for little laughers.

PRINCeS HALL

Aldershot

Three Billy Goats Gruff

Fri 17 Feb 2pm. With catchy songs, funky dances to clap along to and a rapping Troll! £14, family of 4 £52.

WeST eND CeNTRe

Aldershot

Professor Slug’s House of Bugs Wed 15 Feb 2.30pm. For ages 3+. Interactive show full of colourful puppets, catchy songs, and educational info. £8 or family of 4 £28.

RHODA MCGAW THeATRe WOKING

The Smartest Giant in Town

Tues 7 - Thurs 9 Feb. Pinocchi Sun 5 March 2pm & 4.30pm.

CRANLeIGH ARTS

CeNTRe

The Bubble Show

Tues 14 Feb 2pm. A unique blend of magic, storytelling and bubble art for ages 3-12. Adult £12, child £10.

MUSeUM OF FARNHAM

The Secret Garden Wed 15 Feb 2.30-5pm. Help Mary find the Secret Garden and follow her as she learns about all the wonderful things that grow in England and the importance of friendships. Followed by a puppet workshop. For ages 7+. £10 for show + workshop.

NeW vICTORIA THeATRe

Demon Dentist

Thurs 9 - Sat 11 Feb.

G LIve

Spontaneous Storytelling

Live with Danyah Miller

Tues 14 Feb. Family session at 10.45am and children only at 12pm.

Pop Princesses Sat 18 Feb 1pm. Princesses become pop stars!

THe LeATHeRHeAD

THeATRe

Animals Unleashed

Mon 13 Feb 2pm. Puppetry and special effects bring lifelike animals and dinosaurs to the stage.

YvONNe ARNAUD

THeATRe

Guildford Burglar Bill

Sat 14 Jan 11am & 2pm. With an exciting set design, puppets, and original music and songs. Best for 3+. £10.

The Giraffe Who Wouldn’t Bath Tues 17 Jan 11.30am & 1.30pm. Inventive, interactive and creative play for your little ones to enjoy. An original tale for 0-4’s written and told by Hannah Summers. Adventures of an Ugly Duckling Wed 8 Feb. An interactive adaptation with sensory roleplay for ages 0-4.

Starchitects

Fri 17 - Sat 18 Feb. A visual spectacle with dance-circus fusion and digital projections, for all ages.

The Big Top Wed 1 March. Meet Bertie, the little boy with a big imagination. For ages 0-4.

eLeCTRIC THeATRe

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr. Thurs 19 - Sat 21 Jan.

Presented by the British Theatre Academy.

The Railway Children –A Musical Tues 31 Jan - Sun 5 Feb. A new musical adaptation. Let’s All Dance – The Princess and The Frog Sun 12 Feb 11am & 2pm. A classical ballet especially for 2-9 year olds, children with special needs and families.

Morgan & West: Unbelievable Science Sat 18 Feb 2pm. Family science extravaganza!

HASLeMeRe HALL

Dick Whittington

Fri 13 - Sat 21 Jan. Performed by Haslemere Thespians.

DORKING HALLS

elf The Musical

Sat 28 Jan 2.30pm & 7.30pm. An amateur production. The Tiger Who Came to Tea Tues 31 Jan - Wed 1 Feb. Stunning stage adaptation of this classic tale.

Jurassic earth 2023 Sat 11 Feb 11.30am & 2.30pm. Live dinosaur show!

FARNHAM MALTINGS

Flotsam and Jetsam

Thurs 16 Feb 11.30am or 2.30pm. With original music and delightful puppetry. For ages 4+. £8, family of 4 £28.

Bring Your Own Baby Comedy

Thurs 12 Jan, Thurs 16 Feb.

Feb half term holiday camps

The club runs from 9am-4pm or you can extend your hours to 8am-5pm

Day ticket - £45 Extended hours ticket - £55 Pick any day

www.merristwoodevents.co.uk

Merrist Wood College Holly Lane Worplesdon Guildford Surrey GU3 3PE

Merrist Wood Holiday Club - NeW A new holiday club is running at Merrist Wood College, Worplesdon near Guildford this half term (13-17 Feb). The days are 9am-4pm, with extended hours available. You can choose from a Wildlife and Conservation week or an Animal week - book for one day or the whole week! Children can either meet and learn about all the rare breeds at the college or on the Wildlife and Conservation week there are lots of activities including archery, nature trails, mandala art, musical instrument making, willow weaving, DIY seed bombs and much more. Children will be grouped by age: 5-8, 8-11 and 12+. £45 per day. Scan the QR code to book.

PGL

PGL offer all-inclusive residential kids adventure camps for children aged 8-16 during school holidays, including February half term. With bags of fun activities children are grouped by age so it is easy to make friends. Choose from 13 UK locations, camp options include Multi-activity, Cooking & Baking and Theme Park with new options for this year: Pony Camps, Sports Camps and Watersports. Camps range from 3-7 nights with a special introductory 2 night option for first time customers! To find out more scan the QR code or visit pgl.co.uk/familiesjan.

Pitch Pals Half-Term Football Camps

Pitch Pals are running more fantastic football Camps on 13-15 February. All days will run 9am-3.30pm (late pick-up of 4pm and half-days available). Your child can expect a camp full of fun games, activities and tournaments suitable for all. Expert coaching from FA-qualified Coaches in a safe, fun and inclusive environment. Early booking is recommended to guarantee your child’s space. You can book at https://pitch-pals.class4kids.co.uk

Xtreme Activate Holiday Day Camp

OFSTED registered fun-filled holiday camp that runs at Guildford Spectrum entertaining and challenging children aged 5-8 and 9-12 years. The Camp runs every school holiday from 8.30am-6pm. Bookings can be made in person at Customer Services or call 01483 443322, option 3.

Challengers Play Schemes

Disabled and non-disabled children aged 4-12 can come together to play, have fun and make new friends in a safe space. Each Play scheme has a variety of areas set up for different types of play. These include areas for art and creative activities, larger open spaces for noisy and active play, outside space for accessible bikes and trikes, a sand and water play area, and a quiet sensory space. There’s something to appeal to everyone. They run from 1117 February in Guildford and Farnham. For more details see https://disability-challengers.org/play/

Sparks4kids Half Term Computer Workshops

020 8090 1444, www.spark4kids.com

For children who love computers, Spark4Kids offer the ultimate holiday activities including coding, touch-typing and games design, from beginners upwards. Learning is encouraged through exploration, creativity and fun as children naturally develop their computational skills while coding. These workshops are perfect for both beginners and those children who are looking to expand their coding skills. For ages six to teens.