Families Oxfordshire Issue 49 May-Jun 2012

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Cover picture courtesy of Robling Photography - www.roblingphotography.com

Oxfordshire

Issue 49 May - June 2012 www.familiesox.co.uk

LOOK INSIDE for Parties, What’s On and much more!

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news & views Two new services from Lemonjelly Childcare

Top marks for Stagecoach students Stagecoach students have just received their Trinity Guildhall exam results – and an astonishing 93 per cent gained distinction.

“This is the best result ever!” says Maya Sprigg, the delighted principal from the Oxford centre. “We always enter them for higher grades than may usually be expected, but the dedication, confidence and ability of the students has really shone through.

“Stagecoach is a perfect mix of performing arts – training, performing and exams”, explains Maya. “The training is very important, but there needs to be a chance to perform – to show what you’ve learned.

The exam, because it’s taken in the form of a full musical, allows the students to do that and gain a valuable exam grade. The older students, age 16-18 are being entered for their individual Grade 8 exams (AS level) this term, which, really help with drama school / university entrance”.

This Summer, the adventurous performing arts school will be producing ‘Hairspray’ at the Theatre at Headington. The stage school has been very busy with so many students appearing in ‘The King and I’ and ‘Scrooge’ at the New Theatre. The The juniors too have a chance to perform in the Theatre at Headington this Summer in ‘Little Red Hoodie’ a quirky adaptation from the traditional story.

Stagecoach centres promote confidence and theatre skills in singing, dance and drama.

Oxford – Maya Sprigg 01869 278600 Abingdon – Julia Howson 0845 113 0320 Bicester – Jenna McKee 07983 378 883 Banbury – Melissa Allen 01869 249318 Thame – Nicky Goodwin 01865 763767 www.stagecoach.co.uk

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Lemonjelly Childcare is celebrating its 5th birthday by launching two new services for families and childcarers in Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. The Mobile Crèche service will come to your venue and transform a room or marquee in to a wonderland of fun, filled with a huge variety of toys and activities for children ranging from 3 months to 12 years. The tailor-made crèches conform to EYFS and Ofsted guidelines. And the Reference Checking Service is for those who source their own chilcarers but don’t have time or the resources to do their own

reference checks. This new service does all the running around chasing references and contacting previous employers, providing parents with peace of mind and reassurance.

Lemonjelly places Nannies, Maternity Nurses, Parent Helps and Babysitters both permanently and temporarily with families as well as offering a bespoke event and wedding childcare service. All childcarers are personally interviewed, reference and identity checked and must have a valid first aid and CRB disclosure before they’re placed with a family.

07917 717287 / 01844 212134 www.lemonjellychildcaresolutions.co.uk

Travel to treasure island and rescue the sacred coconut!

Babies and toddlers are going sport MAD this summer MAD Academy, who provide high energy music and dancing classes for babies to preschoolers, are helping children discover all about sports this term, with fun packed sessions full of singing and dance activities inspired by sporting events.

Sophie Hill, who runs the weekly classes in the Oxford and Bicester area, is enjoying getting the children into the sporting spirit.

“It has been so much fun discovering the different sporting events and nations with the children. And there is still lots more enjoyment to come – I’m particularly looking forward to our balloon volleyball.

We are planning to end the term with a fun sports party, complete with opening ceremony, races and medals!”

At this sporting finale, the children and parents will also be raising money for the Make a Wish Foundation, MAD Academy’s chosen charity. www.madacademy.com 01869 369502

Avast me ‘earties! Perfom have some fantastic drama, dance and signing workshops to keep the little ones busy.

Oxfordshire’s 4-8 year olds are being invited to set sail on the good ship Jammy Dodger to discover faraway lands in the ‘Mermaids and Pirates’ adventure. They'll discover a world of swashbuckling sea adventures, tropical delights and buried treasure, meet the Seasick Pirate, dance the Coconut Calypso, have a Pineapple Party and discover that X Marks The Spot! What more could you want? So Ahoy me Shipmates!

Classes Run on Mondays in Thame, Wednesdays in Oxford, Saturdays in Haddenham, Wallingford, Henley, Oxford and Abingdon www.perform.org.uk 0845 4001276

Cotswold Wildlife Park Darwin Drawing Competition Drew Tyler (aged 7) from Carterton has won family tickets to the Park and a Tortoise Encounter for a child. There was a great response to this competition and it’s been very hard to choose a winner. A big thank you to all the young people of Oxfordshire who took part. Unfortunately we only had one prize to give away.

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FAMILIES MAY / JUNE 2012

A wildlife park that “just happened” In this issue: News & views 2-5 Parties 6-8 Education 9 Exercise 10 School news 11 Baby & maternity 12-13 Books 14 Survey - PRIZES GALORE!15 Diamond Jubilee 16 What’s on 17-19

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Editor: Felice Vermeulen Contact: editor@familiesox.co.uk Next issue July / August 2012: Summer Holidays Copy deadline 08 June 2012.

To advertise in Families Oxfordshire: Call 01235 206657 or email editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk Circulation: We distribute free copies in hundreds of schools and nurseries throughout Oxfordshire. If your school, nursery or parent group would like copies of Families Oxfrdshire let us know and we’ll sort things out.

Copyright: Families Oxfordshire May 2012 Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner's own risk and while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care in preparing this magazine but publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Families Group: Families Oxfordshire is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Families Readers’ Panel We contact members of the Panel from time to time to ask their opinion and/or recommendations on a range of subjects from parenting to products and services.

The information is used anonymously in this magazine only. In return, members are entered into a draw for a book token from Mostly Books in Abingdon.

To join email: editor@familiesox.co.uk

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Rhinos on the Lawn is the first official book to be published about the Cotswold Wilflife Park. It is a rich and heart-warming account of the Park’s unique spirit and evolution over the past four decades.

The Park is the remarkable brainchild of one man, John Heyworth, who in 1969, transformed the bramble-strewn wilderness of Bradwell Grove Estate into a wildlife park visited, loved and appreciated by over 12 million visitors since it officially opened on 27 March 1970. John’s son Reggie now runs the Park, with a vision for the future whilst continuing his father‘s life’s work.

The book was written by Matthew Jones who started the project in 2010. While researching the book Matthew discovered many previously unseen photographs and archive documents which will be seen for the very first time in the new book, along with some amazing animal tales. Matthew says: “I really like the story of the Park’s opening day on Good Friday 1970. Mr Heyworth and the Curator Brian Sinfield were really worried that no one would turn up, but word had got around. They weren’t prepared for the number of people that came and, as the public kept turning up and the traffic queued up to Burford roundabout,

Who’s going to be the National Young Writer of the Year?

Explore Learning, who provide maths and English tuition to children aged 5-14 are looking for the best short story for their National Young Writer of the Year Award.

Entrants must be aged 14 years or under and the deadline for entries is 11 June. So if you think your child has the potential get him or her to send in their entry. The winner will receive a trip for a family of 4 to Disneyland Paris and £500 worth of books for their school! Entries can be submitted online at www.explorelearning.co.uk/youngwriters or pay Explore Learning at Heyford Hill Oxford a visit, they’re inside Sainsburys.

everyone including the keepers had to be drafted in to help with ticket sales and clearing the backlog. An exhausting but successful day!”

One of the next big events at the Park will be Lemur Week from 4 - 8 June.

Themed activities, events and talks will highlight a Lemur Conservation programme in Madagascar, helping to save Lemurs in the wild. www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk 01993 823006 Kathrine Ffrench of Explore Learning Oxford says: “We committed to providing maths and English tuition to children aged 5-14 and to improve knowledge, confidence and the enjoyment of learning. To help children get ready for this competition we are offering free creative writing workshops to children aged 7-12. The workshops are designed to get them ready to write their stories.”

Workshops will take place on Tuesday 5 June, 12-1pm and 2-3pm. To reserve a workshop space or to book a free maths and English trial session please call 01865 595509 www.explorelearning.co.uk

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news & views SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS D’OVERBROECK’S - LECKFORD PLACE Tue 12 Jun 5.30pm - 7.30pm 01865 302620 www.doverbroecks.com

HEADINGTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL Tue 12 Jun 2pm-3.15pm 01865 759400 www.headington.org

THE MANOR PREPARATORY SCHOOL Sat 6 Oct 10.00am - 12.30pm 01235 858462 www.manorprep.org

RYE ST ANTONY OXFORD Wed 19 Sep Open Day 01865 762802 www.ryestantony.co.uk

Creative courses at Leckford Place

Get in to business and help a charity

Creativity and fun lies at the heart of the d’Overbroeck’s College art, drama and jewellery-making summer courses. Designed for children between the ages of 8 and 14, the courses have a lively and varied pace, paired with a hands-on approach. From day one, children will be throwing themselves into their chosen activity, each course culminating in an event, be it a performance or an exhibition, to which family and friends are warmly invited. www.doverbroecks.com 01865 302620

New principal for Stagecoach Thame Students at Stagecoach Thame started the summer term with new Principal, Nicky Goodwin, in charge. Nicky said, “It is such an exciting time here at Stagecoach Thame with many new things happening – but this is just the beginning with much more to come!” If you are interested in finding out more or want to enroll your child in classes contact Nicky on01865 763767 www.stagecoach.co.uk/thame

Not content with already having raised £1.15 million for good causes, Phoenix Trading are offering to increase that amount by donating up to £25 every time a new trader joins the company until 31st May. The new trader and his / her sponsor get to choose where the money is donated from 4 fantastic charities – Cancer Research UK, Macmillan, Trees for Life, Together for Shorter Lives (formerly Children’s Hospices UK).

So if you love greetings cards and stationery, would like to earn some extra money, are interested in flexible hours to suit you and would also like to help one of the charities listed above this may be something for you. You can also find more information and join online. It only costs £30 to receive a full business kit, giving you everything you need to be ‘instantly in business’. tess.phoenix@brookerfamily.net www.phoenix-trading.eu/web/tessbrooker

Supercamps to the rescue For our children the holidays mean less nagging to get homework done, a change from the school routine and an opportunity to do something different. For parents, the feeling is often more of dread than excitement; juggling commitments as the perfect yin and yang for family and working life is sought.

But it’s not as impossible as it sounds. Super Camps – England’s largest provider of holiday childcare based at some of the finest schools in the UK are launching more activities and sites this year at even more competitive rates and most importantly – greater flexibility.

“We understand that being a working parent is not easy at the best of times and we’ve made it our mission to make life a little easier by providing quality, safe and most importantly, fun holiday childcare for children aged 4-16,” said Super Camps Managing Director, Mark Vingoe.

Trap making, advanced navigation skills and wilderness first aid, creative workshops, popstar academy and cooking classes are all part of the offering.

New courses at some venues this year include training to be a secret agent or solving crimes as a top sleuth. Also the Junior Sports Leadership Award is open to children aged 14-16 that offers a qualification on completion.

So far – it’s all looking good for our children – but how will it all fit in with working life? Easily done! There are optional extended hours from 8am until 6pm; competitive prices for individual day or lengthier courses.

Also new this year is a “parent portal” allowing bookings and amendments at any time of the day or night. Providing spaces are available – parents can make the most of the special flexi-change policy. www.supercamps.co.uk 01235 832222

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FAMILIES MAY / JUNE 2012

TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN

Travelling long distances by car can be extremely tiring. With young children, it is even worse, particularly if you want to keep your hearing and your sanity.

With a little planning and forethought, you can make a long car ride with your children fun.

properly and are comfortable for the child to sit in and pack extra blankets and pillows in the car for your child to use if they get cold or tired. Also consider purchasing something to block the sun from directly shining on your child in the car.

Planning Ahead Take with you small, fun games that young children can play apart or together. Crayons that write only on certain paper are wonderful. Pack soft snacks and non-spill cups and keep them close at hand in the car. It is sometimes necessary and comforting to eat while travelling on long-distance car trips. And don’t forget that favourite toy, stuffed animal or blanket, their favourite books, games, music or films, if you have the facility for them to watch these.

To protect your car’s upholstery you might want to lay down towels or a blanket on the car seats or wherever the children are sitting.

Be sure child car seats are installed

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On the day Dress them in something comfortable and let them take off their shoes when travelling. Place children a seat apart from each other if possible. This eliminates the dreaded "touching" factor and allows for a sharing spot.

Make the car ride interesting by finding out about the geography and

interesting facts about the areas you are travelling through and tell them about these as you are travelling.

Don’t forget to stop off every few hours for a toilet break and allow your children to stretch their legs. Let them run around to get some fresh air and use up some energy. After sitting for several hours, the body can feel stiff and tired.

Consider leaving for your destination sometime in the very early morning - like around 3 AM. Put your children to bed the night before you leave and wake them up in the middle of the night to get in the car. Most of the time, they will be so tired that they will soon fall back asleep until it is light out. You can get in several hours of driving this way.

Never let your child ride outside of their car seat if they are still required to be in one - or without their seat belt.

P rovided by Kidsunlimited www.kidsunlimited.co.uk 0845 3652919

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PARTIES Opening presents

Picture courtesy of WavebreakMediaMicro - Fotolia-com

Hide presents around the house and provide clues to help your child find them.

Follow a ribbon to their first gift, or unroll string all around the house that takes them to their presents.

Celebrate them growing up Create a photo banner of your child’s annual photographs. Take a family photo on the same settee every year put them in a scrapbook that you add to every year. Ask them their favourite colour, ice-cream, hobby, etc., note them down and do this on every birthday.

Capture the moment

PARTY TRADITIONS

By Elisabeth Dolton

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hink of your child’s birthday and what’s the first thing that comes to mind?

Already? What are we going to do this year? Whatever you think, instead of racking your brains thinking for the latest party ideas, what about actually doing some things the same as you did last year? Build simple birthday traditions that you all know about, look forward to, and that create memories that last a lifetime. This is the stuff of magic moments!

We have collected 10 fabulous traditions that can make your children’s birthdays special every year.

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Big-Day Countdown Make the approach to their birthday important. Hang a garland of seven envelopes, each with a small daily goodie, leading up to the grand finale.

Decorate and Titivate The night before your child’s birthday sneak into their room and decorate it with a special sign wishing them a Happy Birthday.

Blow up balloons and put birthday wishes all over the house.

Have a special meal Have breakfast in bed awakened by the whole family singing happy birthday. Create a beautiful tea party to enjoy the finger sandwiches and tea. Let the birthday child help pick the dinner menu however crazy their wishes.

Have a ‘birthday’ plate Have a special plate that each child uses for meals on their birthday. The same could be done for a birthday eggcup, a special seat at the table, or hat they have to wear all day.

Get out the camcorder and interview your child about the special things they have done that year, include props like their award-winning science project that year, their sports trophies, the self-portrait they did of themselves, etc.

Special family events Do the same walk every year, have dinner at the same place, go sledging, have a picnic on the beach. Do activities that are typical of what you are like as a family, e.g. if you are a musical family, hold a concert, if you are outdoorsy, go cycling, plan a walk or a boat trip.

Tell a Tale Let the birthday child stay up a little later after the other children have gone to bed and tell them about the day they were born, and how you felt when they arrived.

Make them feel special

A simple way is to give each member of the family a birthday candle, then pass around a small dessert. Each person puts in their candle and tells the birthday girl/boy something they love about them. They pass the dessert to the next person, who does the same until everyone has added their candle, light the candles and sing Happy Birthday.

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Essential party planning If you think you can book your first choice entertainer and venue a fortnight before your child’s party, think again. The best people and places are fully booked months in advance and if they’re not, ask yourself why. It’s a question I wish I had posed the year I left it late and introduced a knife juggling circus act to my 4 year old.

The early bird really does get the best entertainer.

If you let your little one take charge of who they’re inviting, they’ll leave out the friend they’ve fallen out with in the playground.

Up to the age of 7, it’s best to stick to either a full class party, or one where you simply invite all the girls, or all the boys. Tempting as it is to leave out the class troublemaker or the girl who leaves your daughter out, this is an approach that will only cause future heartache.

by Sarah Butters

This is a mistake you’ll only make once. 30 children and 30 parents will fill even the most generous village hall. Add a bouncy castle and some uninvited siblings and you are nearly on riot watch. Ask parents about siblings on the invitations so they’re not caught out on the day.

Really, don't! There's a chance most of your carefully cut cucumber, tomatoes and grapes will remain untouched on the table by the end of the party tea. Be honest. You only put them out to make sure the Annabel Karmel Fan Club in the corner didn’t fall out with you. Remember that it’s one meal, on one day and if all the birthday boy eats is a handful of Hula Hoops, a Jam Sandwich and sweets then so what? You can force feed him broccoli for breakfast tomorrow.

Spring-a-Lings Musical Movement & Activities for under 5’s ‘Bags’ full of surprises for Themed ‘Fun & Funky’ Birthday Parties & ‘Fun Whilst Learning’ Entertainment In Preschools, Nurseries & Toddler Groups See www.springalings.co.uk for details of public sessions & above

Julie Bishop 07963 327956 Experience has taught me that parents who don’t respond within the first few days of an invite either haven’t received it, or have forgotten. Send reminders via text or over a pick up time chat in the playground.

It’s heartbreaking to receive a steady stream of ‘nos’ after you’ve spent weeks securing an entertainer and a venue on a particular date. Give yourself half a chance by avoiding key dates, like Mothers’ Day and Fathers’ Day, and religious holidays.

Avoid weekends at either end of the school holidays.

Woe betide the mum who thinks she’s above a party bag. It’s a sure fire way to get your guests sobbing as they leave.

Don’t fight it, just be creative and accept that simplicity is the key.

The length of your party is very much dependant on the age of your children. But there is one consistent rule. Make sure you put a finish time on your invites. When the party is over, it can be difficult to get guests moving out of the venue. It's a good idea to position yourself nearer the exit, ready to hand over party bags and balloons.

There are times during the planning you will find this the most absurd piece of advice. How on earth can you expect to enjoy it? Remember that this is one of those ‘gone too quickly’ milestones and if you don’t press the pause button and enjoy the sight of your child laughing with the entertainer or bouncing with his friends then the stress simply isn’t worth it. When the balloons have burst and the cake is just crumbs, it’s those memories that will make you do it all again next year!

Cakeshop- it’s personal A cake from the Cake Shop is the ultimate in personalisation. The cake decorators can make a themed cake for every type of party from fairies to farms or princesses to paintballing. Children (and adults !) have been enjoying their cakes for over 25 years from the two shops handily located in Oxford and Banbury. You can browse the gallery and ask for a quote online and reduce the stress on the day by taking advantage of the delivery service.

Alternatively, if you would like to make the cake yourself, have a look at the extensive range of cake decorating equipment, icing and accessories. 01865 248691 (Oxford) 01295 270447 (Banbury) www.the-cake-shop.co.uk MAY / JUNE 2012

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PARTIES Parties at Culham Adventure Park Would your child fancy a party swinging from the tree tops, zipping down zip slides, jumping off the tarzan swing and crossing wobbly bridges? Or, if height is not their thing, would lasergaming be their choice?

Culham Adventure Park offers both these ultimate adventure birthday parties for children and adults in Oxfordshire. The two most popular birthday parties are the High Ropes party, suitable for children over 10 years & 140 cm and junior commando lasergaming parties, suitable for children aged 8 and over.

The two and a half hours ropes adventure is

tremendous fun in the tree tops. A personal ropes instructor will guide the group around the course. Adventures en route include egg & spoon challenges over the Indiana Jones bridge that wobbles, landing onto a drop zone target from 13 metres, zip sliding balls into scoring pots etc.

Players are immersed into live action combat at Junior Commando parties with real military vehicles. Teams battle against other teams to complete mission objectives, which include deactivating the missile, domination, search and destroy.

Towards the end of a party at Culham Adventure park, it's over to the forest shelter party area for burger and squash, and Happy Birthdays! Everything is taken care of, you just provide the cake.

01865 727378 www.highropesoxford.com www.outdoorlaser.com

Perform’s talk of the playground party!

Perform provides brilliant theme-based entertainment at over 1500 children's parties every year.

Perform Parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious. They use the power of children's imagination to get everyone involved in their colourfully themed paties, which involve lots of lively games, songs and improvisations. There are Mini Ps Parties for 13s, Perform Parties for 4-8s and Perform Plus Parties for 8-12s.

Perform covers all areas within a 90 minute drive of Central London, and even provides the party invites. However, due to their populatirty, you need to book well in advance. Have a look at their web site, if you'd like to get in the mood and see a Perform party in action.

0845400 4000 www.perform.org.uk/parties

Party fun behind the wheel Go Kart Party specialises in indoor Birthday Parties at 30 indoor venues across Oxfordshire. Owner Julio Baressi says; " Our karts are completely safe for children between 4 and 10 years of age. They operate within an inflatable boundary track so the children are driving within a cushion of air. The speed of the karts is set according to the age and ability of the children and we have party programmes for different age groups."

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A Go Kart Party lasts 1 to 2 hours and can accommodate up to 30 children. Everyone is awarded with “Safe Driver” certificates and there’s a trophy for the “Best Driver”. (It's always the birthday child but the children don’t know that!). The birthday child then races the Go Kart Party Pro and does a lap of honour and finally there's the finish with a Formula1 chequered flag. There’s also the option of taking a party room afterwards for food, drink and the Birthday Cake.

07841 053154 / 01865 775653 www.gokart-party.co.uk

Parties with a beat Oxford Rhythm Centre have sent this lovely photo of Adeline and her firends, celebrating her 8th birthday party at Abingdon Baptist Church Hall.

She and her friends took part in percussion games on Boomwhackers and drums, and learned a traditional African rhythm and song. The Rhythm Centre parties have now become very popular across Oxfordshire.

Every child can participate in fun, interactive and exciting percussion games and activities.

07811 041308 www. rhythmcentre.co.uk

Fun parties Boo Boo (Sean Hampson) has extensive experience working with children of all ages. His fun children's parties include dancing competitions, games, magic, juggling and balloon modelling. Children win prizes and have great fun with his bubble and smoke machines.

07961 355269 www.mr-booboo.co.uk

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EDUCATION PREPARING FOR SCHOOL

by Sarah Butters

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s soon as you find out which school your child is going to this September, it’s time to start preparing. Forget force feeding them phonics, this is about getting your child ready for the social challenges of school. The more prepared they are, the easier they will settle and the more they’ll get out of those early days.

Can they dress themselves?

If you can see buttons on trousers and skirts becoming a problem during the post PE change, invest in elasticated waistbands.

These will also help during any ‘last minute’ toilet visits. Avoid tights in the early days they can also lead to unnecessary bathroom accidents. With shoes, laces and buckles are a no-no. Stick to Velcro fastenings which your child can do themselves.

Are they used to sharing?

Sharing is a difficult lesson for a child to learn, especially if they only start learning it at school. But it’s a vital lesson if you want your child to settle in and make friends easily. Start to make a point of praising your pre-schooler for sharing his bag of figures or his last few sweets.

Can they use scissors?

Teachers look for this in the early stages of Reception to evaluate dexterity. Get crafty over the next few months.

Can they use the toilet on their own?

Reception classrooms usually have a toilet nearby but children are expected to use it on their own. That can mean less confident children avoid a visit until it’s too late.

Encourage your child to begin taking toilet trips without you to build up their confidence. Remind them that hand washing is part of the ‘visit’.

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Are they able to eat independently?

Are they able to recognise their name?

Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint in the early days of your child’s school life. Dinner halls are noisy places and can make a child feel overwhelmed. Make sure they arrive at school able to pick up and use a knife and fork. If they’re opting for a packed lunch, make sure they can open a yoghurt, put a straw in a juice box and unpeel a banana.

With school a few months off, it may seem like the easier option to feed them, but it won’t help in the long run. Practice, however painful, makes perfect.

If your child can recognise their name, they’ll be able to find their peg, identify their drawer in the classroom and find their cardigan if it gets misplaced. Starting school can make even the most confident child feel a little lost. If they can locate important places, it will make them feel more in control.

Can they communicate with an adult?

Giving your child the skills to communicate with their teacher means they will be able to have some control. If they don’t understand how to get the attention of an adult, how will they let their teacher know they don’t understand their work?

Encourage your child to ask and even practice with a raised hand at home to make sure they understand the most appropriate way of getting a grown ups attention.

Do they understand discipline?

It’s important your child understands what’s expected of them when they arrive at school. They need to know hitting, kicking, biting and hair pulling will not be tolerated.

Not only will it bring your child to the attention of the head teacher for all the wrong reasons, but it will make your child unpopular with their classmates.

Reputations earned in the early days of school tend to stick and can be hard to shake off.

Are they able to count?

If your child is about to count up to 20, and count back from 10, this will give them a really good head start. Use some of their favourite toys or foods to make counting fun. Lay out 10 grapes and get them to eat them one by one, counting as they go. It will give them confidence and help them see learning as fun. Plus it’s a great way to get one of their 5 a day down them!

Can they follow simple instructions?

The school day is full of instructions. Your child will be asked to put coats on pegs, bring packed lunches into classrooms and sit cross legged on the carpet for circle time. If a child is used to following instructions, they will avoid being reprimanded. Perhaps helping with the weekly shop or with some straight forward jobs around the house will prepare them for school life.

SOME BOOKS YOU MAY FIND USEFUL: I am too absolutely small for school (Charlie and Lola) by Lauren Child Topsy and Tim Start School

by Jean Adamson Starting School Sticker Book

by Felicity Brooks Going to School by Anna Civardi

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EXERCISE Children also make wonderful cycling companions –they’re adaptable, energetic and want to have fun. Just follow our simple guide to ensure that it’s an enjoyable experience!

Before the Ride Do your homework: Make certain you are familiar with the bike route. If you get lost or the route is longer than expected, your child may suffer not only from a diminished experience, but potentially in more serious ways such as dehydration or exposure – older children will enjoy the planning too and might even learn some geography if you look at a map together.

According to a recent Sustrans survey, more than half of us believe the roads are too unsafe to cycle on, but The National Cycle Network provides safe and attractive routes perfect for family bike rides.

Start early: Children tend to tire quickly in the afternoon. Take advantage of their energy in the morning and start your ride early.

Invite playmates: Cycling is more fun when shared. If your child has a friend who is at the same level of competency on a bike, bring him or her along.

Slow down: Realize that a 4-mile ride may take 2 hours. Don't expect to ride as fast as you would on your own.

Be aware of traffic: What might seem like light traffic to you could be a more dangerous situation for your child, whether biking separately or in a trailer.

Be prepared: Carry a tool kit and know how to use it. Also, carry a basic first-aid kit to handle minor cases of road rash.

Dress right: Bring a daypack to hold extra jackets in case the weather changes. Also, try to wear bright clothing or reflective sashes, to aid your visibility.

Lead from the front

On the Ride

If you want your kids to be fired up about cycling then you need to lead by example.

Women who thought their bike days were over are being welcomed at rides designed just for women. They offer a great chance to get back on your bike in great company.

Take breaks: Plan on taking a lot of short breaks. Allow time to stop, get off the bike and explore.

Drink water: Try to drink before feeling thirsty to stay hydrated.

Eat snacks: A well-timed snack can defuse a squabble or bad mood and keep energy going. Kids tend to misbehave more quickly when they're tired, hungry or thirsty.

Make it fun: Choose an interesting route that goes by gardens, streams, views, farms or a favourite shop. Most children are interested in what they can see along the route rather than what's at the end of the road or trail.

Express enthusiasm: If you convey a genuinely upbeat attitude, children most often will be inclined to mimic it.

CYCLING WITH KIDS

O

ne of the best ways to enjoy cycling is in a group, and there’s no better group than your own family! Children as young as 2yrs old are now able to cycle using balance bikes, so there really is no excuse for the whole family not to join in.

We are all aware of the problems of obesity and cycling is a great way to spend quality family time together, get fitter and – after the initial equipment has been bought – it’s a cheap, fun activity.

Choosing equipment Bikes need to complement your lifestyle so, before you buy, think about where you want to use them. Depending on the ages of your children and your levels of fitness, you may need racers or mountain bikes for sporty action, hybrids for a mixture of road and trail riding, plus smaller models and balance bikes for the children. Whilst you tend to get what you pay for, the most important part is the right size frame. If you also intend to use your bike to commute,

by Karen Wood find out if your employer runs a cycle-towork scheme – you could save up to 40%.

Once the bikes are chosen, remember to take a spare inner tube and a puncture kit to keep them moving, plus a good quality helmet. Investing in a bike lock is essential too so you can pop in for tea and cake en route!

Stay safe

more information www.action.org.uk/diva www.cycletta.co.uk www.sustrans.org.uk www.goskyride.com/breeze

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SCHOOL NEWS 83 extra curricular activities at the Manor The self-confidence generated by pupils’ enjoyment of extracurricular activities hugely helps them develop in all areas, both within and beyond the classroom.

It is with this in mind that staff and management at The Manor Preparatory School constantly strive to enhance and vary the provision of the extra-curricular activities in which the boys and girls are invited to participate. Activities change from one term to the next depending on the children’s interests and the season of the year.

Chinese, Spanish, Philosophy, Chess, Creative Art and Hockey Academy have all been added to the range recently and have proved to be very popular. Whether flushed with excitement after the challenge of an invigorating sporting activity or fresh from untangling the mysteries of the Chinese characters, the boys and girls can’t wait for the next session. Their drive and enthusiasm are infectious and it is wonderful to observe their pride and satisfaction as they pass on their new skills and knowledge to interested peers and staff alike.

The boys and girls from Reception to Y6 all have the opportunity to select from the 83 extracurricular activities on a termly basis. The activities run before school, at lunch-time and after school and are run by both experts within the school and by Picture courtesy Manor Prep: Martyn Poynor specialist external coaches. Transport is arranged if the activities take place off-site. For example Squad Swimming which is held at the fabulous 25m indoor pool at Abingdon School, Hockey Academy at Tilsley Park and Netball Squad at the White Horse Tennis and Leisure Centre.

The children’s capacity and enthusiasm both to try new things and to develop their existing skills are heartening and drive the whole extra-curricular programme at The Manor.

01235 858462 www.manorprep.org

Headington’s rainforest experience

Year 6 pupils from Headington Preparatory School in Oxford have enjoyed a term exploring the rainforest.

Maths was taught through the rainforest topic and girls made and sold smoothies

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using rainforest fruits.

They learned how to use spreadsheets to work out profit and loss, as well as handling money and fully understanding capacity.

Early in the spring term pupils also enjoyed a trip to the Living Rainforest in Newbury.

Pupil Izzy said: “The indoor rainforest contains lots of different plants and animals. There were monkeys, toucans, lizards, tortoises, crocodiles and so much more. It was like a real rainforest; it was hot and humid, full of plants and also quite wet! Everyone loved the trip and definitely learned a lot.”

A presentation evening concluded the term's work sharing poetry, a heated debate to consider which group should have the right to stay in the rainforest and informative power points. Rainforest inspired art was also exhibited.

The whole evening was written and choreographed by the girls and they were encouraged to use their imaginations, communication and team work skills. They made jewellery as part of their DT and sold their jewellery on the night. More than £500 was raised for the Rainforest Alliance.

Work is continuing in 2012 to enhance and modernise the facilities and teaching buildings at the Prep School. In July work will begin on a hugely ambitious plan to create additional art, drama, music and teaching facilities for the school. This will include a new dining area and a dedicated performance space replacing the multipurpose hall.

01865 759861 www.headington.org/prep

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DANCE BABY SECOND TIME AROUND

Good preventative measures are: making sure you spend some of the baby's sleeping time doing good one-to-one stuff with the older child planning lots of exciting outings with their favourite people - babies can be rather boring to young children and they may actually want to get away for a while during which time you can cuddle the baby to your heart's content (or sneak in a nap) loving the baby in an inclusive rather than exclusive way and pointing out all the things that a baby cannot do that the older one can and could teach the baby in the future

Adding to your family brings all sorts of new questions you didn't face the first time. Helena Sharpstone considers them.

I

read somewhere that humans crave stability and habit. When it comes to parenting, I'm not so sure. Things were just starting to get easy, stable, habitual with a child of pre-school age able to communicate, listen to reason and (almost) wipe his own bottom. That is when my ovaries started to get itchy.

The pregnancy was pretty similar to the first - a terror of all things fried and lousy old nausea. I had less time to contemplate, plan and use my John Lewis account card.

Last time I was terribly precious about buying everything new for the baby. This time, I was accepting of everything on offer from anyone who cared to offer it.

As the great day approached, I began to really think about what a second child

would mean to us and the effect it would have on our neat family of three, not to mention my only and soon-to-become older child. I knew all the tips: the baby brings a present to the older child; refer to it as 'his' or 'her' baby; have your arms free to greet the older child upon your return, include them in every nappy change and so on. All good advice, but nothing you couldn't work out for yourself.

Here are some common concerns experienced by many as the family grows, and some thoughts to put them into perspective:

Will I have enough time for them all?

No, not initially. This is not a time to be a superparent and try to do it all alone. The greatest help in the early days is just that help. Accept it from family and friends you can stand having around and send the ones you can't stand on errands on your behalf.

I will never love another child like I love my first Actually, maternal or paternal love is easier the second time around, because you've already been there. It's a bit like the new found tolerance and affection so many of us develop towards other people's children, having had a few of our own. Experiential empathy is a great thing.

trying to observe important and familiar rituals for the older child, such as bed time reading and cuddles, if possible, without the baby around and finally, if you are worried, never leaving the baby alone in the company of the older child (especially if you have just bought them a work bench or a doctor's kit!).

Here are some things about siblings and being a parent of more than one which may surprise you: - The strength of love your older child may feel for the baby almost immediately. They are often distressed by their crying and are the first to tell you when the baby needs something. Watch out for those suffocating cuddles though!

The fact that any night crying which distresses the hell out of you and wakes all the neighbours three postcodes away fails to wake your slumbering toddler (especially amazing if you are used to one whose antennae can pick up a rustling chocolate wrapper within seconds).

Your calm acceptance of the sleeplessness and mania of the early months. Remember, you have learned that everything passes... sometimes too quickly.

Helena Sharpstone is part of The Parent Company, which runs seminars for parents for all stages of their children's lives including sibling rivalry, settling children in school, setting boundaries, raising boys/ girls, sleep problems and first aid. www.theparentcompany.co.uk

What if the other child shows jealousy or worse, hurts the baby?

It would be naive to suggest this is unlikely and frankly if this is the case, a present from the baby to a vulnerable, dethroned youngster just isn't going to cut it.

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MATERNITY Nurturing yourself in pregnancy How do you nurture yourself while you are pregnant? I often ask this question in my pregnancy yoga classes. Some of the women look flummoxed, while others develop a dreamy look and begin to reel off lists of wonderful soul-nourishing activities.

They speak of walks along rivers, of candlelit baths, of quiet moments of knitting, of resting in the afternoon, of yoga, of meaningful connection with their partner and their own mother. I know these women are delving deep into their pregnancies, extracting each drop of experience and joy from it, creating memories to be treasured for the rest of their lives. They are also bonding deeply with their unborn child.

Some of the other women are mothers already, and look at me blankly – how on earth can they possibly squeeze anything else into their days? But nurturing yourself in pregnancy is not about time or money.

All of the following activities can be done in a short time, are free, and will greatly enhance your sense of being blissfully in touch with your pregnancy.

Firstly, sit quietly with your hands on your baby. If you can, do this outside, under a tree, great. If you have to do it at your desk, on a bus, or while cuddling a toddler, that is also fine.

Tune in to your breath for a few moments, letting your body relax and your mind become steady as it focuses on five or six long inhalations and exhalations. Then tune into your baby, and be present with it, give it your attention. Nothing more. Notice thoughts which arise, but don’t give them your attention. After a while, begin to be aware of the bigger picture of your pregnancy – the fact that you are part of the flow of life, that you are a mother who is part of the great continuum of the generations. Feel the power of all the birthing mothers in your family behind you in history (your ancestors) and the wonder of the children of your children (your descendents). Feeling this inner connection with the sacred journey of motherhood will greatly enhance your enjoyment of pregnancy. It will help you trust your instincts when it comes to the birth, and it will provide a foundation for confidence with your newborn.

There are many other ways to access this sense of mindful self-nurturing. The key is

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by Sophie Carr to be in the moment, to be truly present with your baby right here and now, at this very moment of your pregnancy (which will never happen again) and not to be thinking or worrying about the future. Yes, pregnancy is about planning. But if you spend too much time working out the colour scheme of your nursery, or feeling anxious about the birth, you will be missing opportunities.

This space can be

yours from as little as £48 per issue.

No VAT editor@familiesox.co.uk

01235 206657

Take walks in the countryside, preferably alone. Let your mind relax and take in your surroundings. At first your mind will chatter, with inner dialogue about nappies and buggies. Then the nature around you will help your mind settle. You will feel nourished in both body and soul.

Take baths, spend plenty of time cuddling your partner and give each other massages.

These pleasurable pastimes release endorphins into your bloodstream, giving you a natural high and connecting you to a sense of family.

Don’t eat too many cakes! Even though it may seem nurturing, excess sugar stagnates the body, and I have observed over the years how this may cause a late and slow labour. Instead, indulge all your senses with a plateful of colourful food and plenty of different tastes. Spend time experimenting in the kitchen, listening to classical music as you create a visual treat.

The trick is to nourish body and soul. That is what we try to do in our classes. I see women arrive tired and hassled, but they leave feeling revived and relaxed – sometimes even like goddesses. Pregnancy can certainly be one of the greatest experiences of your life. All you require is a real commitment to each sacred moment as you feel your baby grow inside you. You are beautiful when you are pregnant, so allow yourself to feel bounteous and blissful too.

Sophie Carr teaches yoga for pregnancy classes in York.

01904 733752 www.yogaco.co.uk

LOCAL EXPERTS YOGA FOR PREGNANCY Nicole Croft 07533 889236 www.buddhabellies.co.uk Kay Millar 01865 www.activebirth-oxford.co.uk Suzanne Goddard 0774716695 www.yogabellies.co.uk

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BOOKS Here’s this month’s selection from Mostly Books in Abingdon.

Throughout the year, Mostly Books runs many events - ranging from children's fun days to meet-the-author talks and signings.

To register your interest in a particular event, email them at books@mostly-books.co.uk or subscribe to the newsletter.

Regional finalist - Independent Bookshop of the Year 2010, 2011.

Zou and the Box of Kisses –

One Dog and His Boy

ISBN 978-1877467745 Michel Gay (Gecko Press) One with a great ‘ahhhh’ factor ‘Zou and the Box of Kisses’. Zou has a trip and the first night away from mum and dad. He treasures a box of kisses from his parents. But as all the little zebras begin to miss their mums and dads, will Zou decide to share his treasure trove? A lovely tale perfect for sharing with little ones.

ISBN 978-1407124230 Eva Ibbotson (Marion Lloyd Books) A truly lovely story about a boy who has everything but no-one to really love him and all he really wants is a dog to love and be his friend. Whilst Hal's parents are very rich, they have a perfect house and refuse to get a dog because it would ruin their home. Hal doesn't give up though and ends up on the run with a pack of dogs as he heads north to his grandparents. Along the way he makes lots of friends, escapes a few baddies and has lots of adventures. A charming and beautiful story, perfect for children who like animal adventures, 8+

Sleeping Army – ISBN 978-1846682780 Francesca Simon (Profile Books) A cracking adventure set in an England where Norse Gods are worshipped instead of Christianity. A lovely twist on a popular idea, Freya finds herself stuck at the British museum while her dad does his night shift after he forgets it's his night to have her. But not for long - worse than a boring night alone amongst artefacts, Freya is caught up in a desperate mission to save the gods from Loki's devilish plans.

What was really nice about this was that Freya was very ordinary and objects strongly to going on a dangerous adventure - her spirit for this extends only as far as trying a new vegetable! A great read for 8+ with lots of funny and gross bits.

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All Fall Down – ISBN 978-1407121727 Sally Nicholls (Marion Lloyd Books) "All Fall Down" is a compelling novel focusing on strength in adversity and the facets of human nature (when confronted with a threat and reality of contagion). Narrated by Isabel, a likeable yet believable heroine, this book tells a tale of trials and terror experienced in Ingleforn, Isabel's home, 1349. This book is a breath of fresh air (ironic, since Isabel believes The Plague to be spread by Miasmas) and a generally refreshing read.

Try it yourself and see!

The Secret Hen House Theatre ISBN 978-0857630650 Helen Peters (Nosy Crow) A fun story with plenty of action, unexpected events and humour - vengeful school friends, the inevitable competition disasters, arson . . . This book grabs you from the start and builds to an emotional and exciting end but without being sentimental. A perfect book for girls 9+

Twilight Robbery ISBN 978-1405055390 Frances Hardinge (Macmillan) A terrific read - second in a series that follows the adventures of Eponymous Clent and Mosca Mye. Filled with rich detail and devious plots, Frances Hardinge creates a fantabulous world, great characters and some huge adventures, as Mosca and Eponymous cause rebellions and trouble wherever they go - unfortunately not always intentionally! Named under a 'Night' Beloved (those believed to have bad qualities and prone to become thieves, tricksters and rebels) Mosca finds herself alone in 'Toll-By Night' and on a dangerous mission - to rescue a kidnapped girl and to keep herself alive in the process.

Imaginative and fun, it's a cracking read.

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BE IN IT TO WIN IT! The lovely people at Blenheim Palace, Supercamps, Millets Maize Maze and Mostly Books have teamed up with us to provide even more prizes, exclusively for readers of Families Oxfordshire.

So hurry and return your survey soon by post or online and remember you’ve got to be in it to win it!

WIN

Win Family Annual Passes to Blenheim Palace and take part in the Diamond Jubilee Weekend Celebrations. Enjoy Afternoon Teas on the South Lawn, a special Jubilee exhibition about Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, appearances by children's characters Rupert the Bear, Noddy and Big Ears on 3 June, the spectacular Bunbury's Celebrity Cricket Match on 4 June, and Massed Brass Bands on 5June.

Entries must be received by us before Monday 21 May for this prize. www.blenheimpalace.com

Win Family tickets (2 adults/2 children) to Millets Maize Maze WIN 2012. A great day out for the whole family to enjoy.

www.milletsfarmcentre.com Win a fantastic free day at Super Camps, worth ÂŁ38, for you and a friend during the Summer school holidays.

Supercamps 01235 832222 www.supercamps.co.uk

WIN

Book tokens from Mostly Books come with bags of time for blissful browsing in this amazing independent bookshop.

www.mostly-books.co.uk WIN

MAY / JUNE 2012

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DIAMOND JUBILEE THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE

By Joanna Parry

Get ready for the celebrations this summer! 2012 not only marks the Queen’s 60th year as Monarch, but she is also the first to celebrate a Diamond Jubilee since Queen Victoria in 1897. There is a whole host of exciting events in London as well as those mentioned in What’s On in Oxfordshire in the following pages.

So get out your flags and get celebrating.

The Official Central Weekend 2-5 Jun

All pictures courtesy of Robling Photography - www.roblingphotography.com

SUN 3 JUN - BIG JUBILEE LUNCH Building on the popular Big Lunch initiative, enjoy lunch with neighbours and friends. Organise your own street party or share a picnic it's all about the community coming together for food, music and good old-fashioned fun. www.thebiglunch.com SUN 3 JUN - THAMES DIAMOND JUBILEE PAGEANT See the Queen lead a flotilla of 1000 boats from across the UK, Commonwealth and the rest of the world. Steam boats, tall ships, cruisers, kayaks, Dunkirk little ships and Dragon boats – the flotilla will be the largest fleet of ships to assemble on the Thames in 350 years, continuing a royal tradition which dates back to Anne Boleyn’s coronation. The Pageant will begin in Putney and culminate at Tower Bridge. www.thamesdiamondjubileepageant.org SUN 3 JUN – DIAMOND JUBILEE FESTIVAL Battersea Park, Albert Bridge Road, SW11 4NJ Watch the Flotilla as it passes by Battersea Park.

The Festival will feature music, dance, crafts and a funfair, plus pop-up pub, giant cake stand, village fete, storytelling, outdoor cinema, oldfashioned steam fair, fancy-dress flotilla on the Boating Lake and a mini-museum of royal memorabilia at the Pump House Gallery.

MON 4 JUN - BBC CONCERT AT THE PALACE Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA Join in the fun at the Diamond Jubilee Concert with artists including Elton John, Paul McCartney, Cliff Richard, Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey and Annie Lennox. Don’t worry if you didn’t get a ticket – there’s room for 500,000 people in St James's and Green Parks and the Mall to watch on giant screens. www.bbc.co.uk/diamondjubilee MON 4 JUN - DIAMOND JUBILEE BEACONS Tower Of London, EC3N 4AB A network of 2,012 Beacons will be lit throughout the UK and Commonwealth, including beacons on the battlements of The Tower of London, St. James’s Palace and Lambeth Palace.

TUE 5 JUN - SERVICE OF THANKSGIVING AND CARRIAGE PROCESSION St Paul's Cathedral, EC4M 8AD The final day of official celebrations includes a Service of Thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral before the Queen travels in a procession through

16

Events surrounding the Central Weekend the streets of London.

27 APR TO 9 SEP ROYAL RIVER: POWER, PAGEANTRY AND THE THAMES National Maritime Museum, Greenwich SE10 9NF Guest-curated by historian David Starkey, it explores the relationship between monarch, city and people as played out on the Thames.

17 MAY TO 21 OCT - THE QUEEN: ART AND IMAGE National Portrait Gallery, WC2H 0HE Bringing together images of Elizabeth II from throughout her reign, this exhibition shows the way she has been portrayed down the decades, ranging from official paintings to works by Lucian Freud, Andy Warhol, Annie Leibovitz and Gilbert and George.

24 MAY TO 4 NOV - AT HOME WITH THE QUEEN Museum of London, EC2M 5UU Featuring Londoners photographed in their homes, this exhibition explores cherished mementoes of Her Majesty’s reign.

31 MAY – ROYAL PHILHARMONIC JUBILEE GALA Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP The acclaimed orchestra will be joined by some of the UK's most talented female musicians for a special concert. www.royalalberthall.com 2 JUN – A GALA FOR THE QUEEN’S JUBILEE Royal Albert Hall Starring Russell Watson, and celebrating the Jubilee with a sensational programme of stirring favourites.

3 JUN – THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE SING-A-LONG Royal Albert Hall Get ready for a right old knees-up.

Showman Jonathan Cohen will lead you

through toe-tapping, handclapping songs to sing... sing... singalong!

2 & 3 JUN - JUBILEE FAMILY FESTIVAL Hyde Park, W2 2UH Hosted by Sainsbury's, this two-day festival will culminate in a finale on both days comprising of Disney songs and characters.

Plus equestrian events, death-defying motorbike stunts and kids' television characters. With giant screens covering the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant on Sunday, the festival will showcase Britain throughout the decades.

30 JUN TO 8 JUL, 31 JUL TO 7 OCT – PALACE SUMMER OPENING Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA Visit the lavishly decorated State Rooms furnished with treasures from the Royal Collection.

31 JUL TO 30 SEP - DIAMONDS: A JUBILEE CELEBRATION Buckingham Palace, SW1A 1AA This spectacular exhibition shows the many ways in which diamonds have been used by British monarchs over the last 200 years. It includes the necklace made for Queen Victoria’s coronation, a crown worn by Victoria for her Diamond Jubilee portrait and a set of diamonds given to her by the Sultan of Turkey.

Don’t forget the extra Bank Holiday. Monday 4 Jun and Tue 5 June are both holidays this year, so there’s no excuse not to get celebrating!

Find out more at www.royal.gov.uk, www.direct.gov.uk/diamondjubilee and www.thamesdiamondjubileepageant.org.

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WHAT’S ON .

CORNERSTONE ARTS CENTRE

NEW THEATRE

25 Station Road Didcot OX11 7NE 01235 515144 www.cornerstone-arts.org.uk Fri 26 May 6.30pm SWAMP JUICE Using mind-blowing shadow puppetry, this show about life in a swamp has a jaw-dropping 3D finale (no funny glasses required!).

Ages 7+ (some scenes a little scary!)

Sat 27 May 2pm READY OR NOT Contemporary dance made especially for children showing them the nature of playing together, making friends. Ages 2+ Sun 3 Jun 2pm MUSICAL OLYMPICS: CHILDRENS’S PROM WITH MR MARK Which instrument is the highest, lowest, fastest, slowest, softest? Ages 2+ Sun 22 Jul 2pm THERE WAS AN OLD WOMAN WHO SWALLOWED A FLY There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly… I don’t know why she swallowed a fly...but The People’s Theatre Company do! Ages 4+

George Street, OX1 2AG 0844 847 1585 www.newtheatreoxford.org.uk 17 – 20 Nov Sat 16 Jun THE WIGGLES – LIVE IN CONCERT The Wiggles, the fab four from Australia, are bringing their famous live show back to the UK and Ireland in 2012. Celebrating the return of the original Yellow Wiggle, Greg Page, The Wiggles are also celebrating their 21st year of performing to children around the globe. You’ll wiggle along with hits such as Hot Potato, Fruit Salad, Rock A Bye Your Bear and Toot, Toot, Chugga, Chugga live in concert.

KENTON THEATRE New Street Henley-on-Thames RG9 2BP 01491 575698 www.kentontheatre.co.uk Thu 31 May - Fri 1 Jun 7.15pm Sat 2 Jun 2.15pm and 7.15pm

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT The performance showcases family entertainment that is suitable for all ages with songs from all generations in honour of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Innovative dance, along with hilarious comedy, complete a varied programme. All tickets 0118 9012624

MILL ARTS CENTRE Spiceball Park Banbury OX16 5QE 01295 252050 www.themillartscentre.co.uk Sat 19 May 2pm THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ Based on Frank Baum’s original story, Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion all follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Emerald City and Oz. Some children are chosen and have the opportunity to perform in the performance. Ages 5-9 Thu 7 Jun 2pm HIP HOPE HERO The Hip Hope Hero knows the world’s biggest secret…that inside everyone lurks a hero, even a super hero! Come and meet the Hip Hope Hero and soon your own unique and powerful inner hero will be released. Suitable for 5-9 yrs Sat 9 Jun 2pm THE PIED PIPER Join the two Krazy Kat performers as they present this fast moving comedy retelling of the classic fairy tale. With beautiful puppets, equally beautiful people plus wonderful magical tricks, this visually dynamic production features rascally rats, tap dancing cheeses, music and much silliness…(Fully integrated sign language throughout.) Ages 3 - 7 Thu 26 Jul 11.30am & 2pm THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE A tiny snail longs to see the world, so she hitches a lift on the tail of a huge humpback whale.

Together they go on an amazing journey, experiencing sharks and penguins, icebergs and volcanoes... Ages 4+

THE TREE OF LIGHT Spectacular community celebration brings the spirit of the London 2012 Olympic Games to the Thames Valley this summer.

The Tree of Light is one of the most spectacular and ground-breaking arts projects ever to come to the Thames Valley.

A community celebration of the life and importance of trees, it has already involved hundreds of participants from across the

MAY / JUNE 2012

NORTH WALL ARTS CENTRE South Parade Summertown OX2 7NN 01865 319 450 www.thenorthwall.com Sat 26 May 2pm & 7pm THE GIRL WITH THE IRON CLAWS This is a story about a girl who dares to follow her longing. The youngest daughter of a king, she feels like a misfit. Then one night a compelling dream leads her deep into the forest, where a chance encounter sets her on a fateful path she could never have anticipated.

Age 8+ Tue 29 May 3.30pm & 6.30pm GELDEROG SS PHILIP AND JAMES PRIMARY SCHOOL Following another Ashes series whitewash in Australia, and with its myths all but abandoned, England is on its knees. Enter Raymond Butler, an eight-year-old pupil at St George’s Primary School, cricket obsessed and the teller of tall stories. Giant ones in fact! When Raymond meets a real life giant just next to the school playground, his world changes forever. Gelderog is a tale for all ages, with the odd Yorker thrown in for good measure!

Sat 30 Jun 11am & 1.30pm THE GINGERBREAD MAN Two children help their mother in the kitchen. But when left to their own devices, the mischievous pair accidentally create The Gingerbread Man! He leads them on an adventure, where they encounter curious animals and cause a lot of mess, but there’s a delicious ending for everyone. Ages 3-7 Wed 11 Jul 10am & 11.30am TWO FOUR SIX EIGHT! Craig has been invited to his best friend’s birthday party.

There is an invitation to read, presents to wrap, cakes to buy and a house to find. Who will explain the rules of musical chairs? A funny and charming show about numbers, with music, balloons and far too much wrapping paper. Ages 4-7

OXFORD PLAYHOUSE & BT STUDIO 11-12 Beaumont Street Oxford OX1 2LW 01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com Sat 30 Jun 11am & 2pm THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER Theatre of Widdershins brings this classic fable to life using magical puppets, intricate design and original music. Ages 3+ Sat 7 Jul 11am & 2pm LITTLE HIPPO AND HIS MAGIC PEN Based on the story Petit Hippo et son Stylo Magique this interactive tale, told both in English and French, will invite even the smallest audience members to make their own use of Little Hippo’s pen. Ages 2 - 5 Sat 21 Jul 11am, 2pm & 4pm FIDDLESTICKS The playful spirit of a violin breaks free from his strings and leads us into a world of musical fantasy. A spellbinding tale of rhythmical twists and turns, with a lively blend of clowning, rod and shadow puppets, percussion and live music. Ages 4+

PEGASUS THEATRE Magdalen Road Oxford OX4 1RE 01865 812150 www.pegasustheatre.org.uk Sun 3 Jun 11am and 3pm (Pre-show workshops with Kepow 10.00 am and 2pm)

PEGASUS FUNDAY SUNDAY: WHOSE STORY IS IT ANYWAY? Taking audience suggestions, Kepow adapt old folk tales, create new ones and improvise stories full of action and adventure. Guaranteed to make children (and adults) laugh out loud, as it celebrated the power of the human imagination. What happened when Harry Potter discovered he had a twin called Larry? Or when Charlie built his own Chocolate Factory?

Thu 14 Jun – Sat 16 Jun various times

MY MOTHER TOLD ME NOT TO STARE A deliciously dark operetta for curious children and their grown ups. In Bobby’s town, everybody lives very ordinary lives. Babies are delivered to their new parents by stork,and made to live, until useful of course, in drawers. Children who are naughty and break the rules of the town, will be sent far away, never to return!

Join Bobby on an extraordinary musical adventure in which he finds strength in friendship to confront the horror of the Fixing Kitchen. Ages 8+ Tue 10 - Sat 14 Jul various times THE END OF THE RAINBOW Pegasus Youth Theatre and guest community groups present ‘Olympic Spirit’ themed performances.

What is at the end of the rainbow? Do we need to imagine it to make it happen? is the ‘pot of gold’ there for the taking or is it an illusion? How do we create our own pot of gold and what might it be? The performers create their own rainbow’s end.

Suitable for all ages.

Thames Valley region, including school and community groups, dancers, singers, artists, scientists and environmentalists.

Throughout July, a series of epic performances will be held in some of the region’s best loved outdoor spaces, each bringing together hundreds of performers in a visual and sonic feast for the senses.

Combining dance (spearheaded by Artistic Director and choreographer Charlie Morrissey), music (devised by composer Orlando Gough) and cutting edge set design (by much admired Glastonbury design duo Block9), they will tell life story of a tree: a monumental sculpted work of art, part powered by bicycle generated energy.

An extraordinary explosion of music, light, dance and theatre for the whole family, the Tree of Light promises to be one of the most exciting spectacles the region has ever seen – a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games that should not be missed! www.thetreeoflight.org

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WHAT’S ON MAY Sat 12 May 12.30pm BATH SPA GEORGIAN BAND at Holywell Music Room. A concert of music for children, including works by Herschel The Bate Collection of musical instruments www.bate.ox.ac.uk 01865 276128 Sat 12 May 2pm PAPER PLATE PLANETARIUM Discover the revolution of Copernicus and make a colourful paper planetarium to take home. Ages 7-13.

Museum of the History of Science www.mhs.ox.ac.uk 01865 277280 Sat 12 May 11 & 2.30pm SATURDAY SCIENCE CLUB – SCIENCE OF POPCORN Why does popcorn pop? What makes the perfect popping corn? Predict, experiment and test one of our nation’s favourite snacks! Ages 8-11 Science Oxford Live www.scienceoxford.com/whats-on 01865 728953 Sat 12 May 1pm CHARLOTTE'S WEB See a heart warming story in the surrounds of Cogges' Wheat Barn.

Cogges Manor Farm www.cogges.org.uk 01993 772602 Sat 12 May 2pm SATURDAY FILMS KIDS CLUB Afternoon films for kids at East Oxford's local independent cinema.

Ultimate Picture Palace www.uppcinema.com 01865 245288.

Sat 12 May 2-4pm PRINT WORKSHOPS For ages 8-16 The Story Museum www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 790050 Sun 13 May 12.30pm - 1.30pm & 2pm - 3pm CRACKLING CLASSROOM FINGER PUPPETS Create your very own class of finger puppets inspired by Roald Dahl’s Matilda. Ages 5+ Roald Dahl Museum www.roalddahlmuseum.org 01494 892192 Wed 16 May 9.30am BOTLEY BY BUGGY Buggy walking for mums and babies around Botley, Oxford rachaelrmonks@gmail.com 07951 858162 Thu 17 May 8.30pm – 10.30pm GUIDED WALK: BATS AT WALLINGFORD CASTLE MEADOWS Join a local bat expert to find out about these fascinating night flyers.

Learn how to use a bat.

Earth Trust Centre, Little Wittenham, Abingdon OX14 4QZ www.earthtrust.org.uk 01865 407792 Thu 17 May YOGA FOR MUMS AND BABIES IN

WALLINGFORD. www.harmonyoftheheart.co.uk 07719 716273 Thu 17 May 10am – 12noon NATURE TOTS Outdoor nature play, games and stories for pre-school children.

Sutton Courtenay Envionmental Education Centre, nr Didcot, OX14 4TE, 01235 862024 Fri 18 May 7pm - 9pm SPACE IS ACE! A special family friendly event organised with Space Rutherford.

Vale and Downland Museum, Wantage www.wantage-museum.com 01235 771447 FRI 18 May 7pm SULGRAVE UNDER THE STARS Treasure hunt, candlelit house tour, supper & star gazing till late.

Sulgrave Manor Sulgrave, nr Banbury OX17 2SD , 01295 760205

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MAY 18 May 4-4.45pm & 5-6pm OXFORD RHYTHM CENTRE: FUN WITH DRUMS for ages 3-5 at4pm and African Drumming for ages 6+ at 5pm St Michael's Church Hall, Summertown, Oxford www.rhythmcentre.co.uk 07811041308 Sat 19 May 11am & 2.30pm SATURDAY SCIENCE CLUB: ROOTS & SHOOTS Find out how to make your own grass head and learn all about how plants grow.

Ages 7+.

Science Oxford Live www.scienceoxford.com/whats-on 01865 728953 Sat 19 May 10am - 12noon GUIDED WALK: BIRDS AT THRUPP LAKE, RADLEY Join local expert Ben Carpenter to learn more about birds and their habitats. Booking is essential.

Earth Trust Centre, Little Wittenham, Abingdon OX14 4QZ www.earthtrust.org.uk 01865 407792 20 May 3pm & 5pm THE OXFORD MUSICAL OLYMPICS Patsy Wood family prom with Mr Mark Jacqueline du Pre Music Building www.ticketsoxford.com 01865 305305 Mon 21 May LAZY DAISY BIRTHING Antenatal & Baby Classes at various locations in Oxford and in South Oxfordshire Sue Evans, 07799411994 Thu 24 MAY 9.50-10.45am ENERGIZERS: PHYSICAL

ACTIVITY FOR PRE SCHOOLERS. Prime Energy Oxford Brookes University Sports Centre, Cheney Lane, Oxford OX3 0BP 01869 352000 Fri 25 May 4-4.45pm & 5-6pm OXFORD RHYTHM

CENTRE: FUN WITH DRUMS for ages 3-5 at4pm and African Drumming for ages 6+ at 5pm St Michael's Church Hall, Summertown, Oxford www.rhythmcentre.co.uk 07811041308 Sat 26 May 2pm GLOBE MAKERS Discover the Museum's collection of globes, how they were made, and make your own model globe. Ages 9-13. Booking required.

Museum of the History of Science www.mhs.ox.ac.uk 01865 277280 Sat 26 May 11am-1pm ANIMATION WORKSHOP Draw and doodle, and contribute to the animation canvas, after which Animation Station will transform the two hours of drawing into a short film.

Cornerstone Art Centre www.cornerstone-arts.org.uk 01235 515144 Sat 26 May 11:00am, 2:30pm SATURDAY SCIENCE CLUB :PINHOLE CAMERAS Learn about light and cameras, and make your own working pinhole camera to take home with you. Ages 8-11 Science Oxford Live www.scienceoxford.com/whats-on 01865 72895 Sun 27 May TEDDY BEAR DAY Free admission for any child bringing his or her teddy.

The Oxford Bus Museum

MAY Sun 27 May 12noon – 4pm SPRING VINTAGE FAYRE AT HAILEY PRIMARY SCHOOL Apart from a craft and gift market, a classic car show and funfair rides, there will be live jazz and band music, baby farm animals, vintage teas, traditional country games such as tug-ofwar and even "welly wanging".

Hailey Primary School, Hailey nr Witney, OX29 9UB www.hailey.oxon.sch.uk 01993 703802

JUNE DIAMOND JUBILEE Events acrosss Oxford and Oxfordshire to mark 60 years of The Queen's reign. www.direct.gov.uk/diamondjubilee Sat 2 Jun, 12pm – 5pm NATIONAL TOWN CRIERS COMPETITION Town Criers from around the country will be attending the day long competition to keep up this ancient British tradition. Spectacular parade up the Oxford Castle Mound.

Oxford Castle Unlocked www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk 01865 260666 Sat 2 Jun 2pm EXPLORING THE DISTANT UNIVERSE Department of Astrophysics Family Lecture. Find out how new ground-based telescopes help explore the most distant stars and galaxies and find planets the same size as Earth orbiting other stars. Booking required.

Martin Wood Lecture Theatre, Martin Wood Complex, Parks Road (next to University Parks), Oxford OX1 3PU . www.ox.ac.uk/visitors_friends/whats_on/0602_2.html Sat 2 Jun 1pm-4pm PITT STOP: LEOPARD HEADDRESSES AND CROCODILE CROWNS Create elaborate animal head-wear inspired by the West African collections.

Pitt Rivers Museum www.prm.ox.ac.uk 01865 270927 Sat 2 – Fri 8 Jun 11am - 4pm A ROYAL LIKENESS Make your own crown and pose as a Tudor monarch, inspired by the British Portraits Collection.

Compton Verney www.comptonverney.org.uk 01926 645500 Sat 2 Jun - Tue 5 Jun JUBILEE WEEKEND Show off your dog at the Family Dog Show and enjoy all the other traditional fete activities and nostalgia.

Cogges Manor Farm www.cogges.org.uk 01993 772602 Sun 3 Jun 12pm – 3pm THE OXFORD CASTLE BIG LUNCH Bring along a picnic blanket and some food to share and enjoy an afternoon of free family friendly entertainment. Special lunch hampers will be available.

Oxford Castle Unlocked www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk 01865 260666 Sun 3 Jun JUBILEE BANK HOLIDAY WEEKEND Meet the much-loved British children's characters Rupert the Bear, Noddy and Big Ears. The Blenheim Park Cricket Club will be playing a match in preparation for the Jubilee match against the Bunbury's on Monday 4th.

Afternoon Teas will be served from a bamboo marquee on the South Lawn.

Blenheim Palace www.blenheim.com 0800 849 6500

www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk 01993 883617

We have made every effort to ensure our listings are accurate and up-to-date. However, please call venues to confirm.

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WHAT’S ON JUNE Tue 5 Jun 12-1pm & 2-3pm NATIONAL YOUNG WRITER’S AWARDS Free creative writing workshops.

Ages 7-12 Explore Learning inside Sainsburys, Heyford Hill, Oxford. www.explorelearning.co.uk/youngwriters 01865 595509 Wed 6 - Fri 8 Jun 10am - 4pm JUBILEE BOATS Use paper and pens to make and decorate a boat for the Jubilee Flotilla.

Cornerstone Art Centre www.cornerstone-arts.org.uk 01235 515144 Wed 6 Jun 1.30am-3.30pm CLAY SCULPTURE Get messy with clay to create your very own regal crown.

Ages 5-10 £9, adult goes free when accompanied by a child.

Cornerstone Art Centre www.cornerstone-arts.org.uk 01235 515144 Wed 6 - Sat 8 Jun CRAFTY VICTORIANS Make simple crafts inspired by the Victorians use of recycled materials.

Museum of Oxford http://tinyurl.com/MuseumofOxford 01865 252761 Wed 6 – Fri 8 Jun 1pm – 4pm HALF TERM ACTIVITIES: MUSEUM MASTERPIECE Rummage around the museums for bits ‘n’ bobs to create your own magnificent work of art.

Pitt Rivers Museum www.prm.ox.ac.uk 01865 270927 Oxford University Museum www.oum.ox.ac.uk 01865 272 950 Wed 6 Jun 1.30pm - 2.30pm & 3pm - 4pm PENNY DREADFUL IS A MAGNET FOR DISASTER Joanna Nadin, shares tales of mischief-making, mayhem and “BRILLIANT IDEAS™” from the hilarious series. Ages 6+ Roald Dahl Museum www.roalddahlmuseum.org 01494 892192 Thu 7 Jun 10.30am-4.30pm MASH-UP CHOIR Have fun learning to sing in harmony with your friends to mashed-up pop songs, concluding in a performance for family and friends. Ages 8-14 Cornerstone Art Centre www.cornerstone-arts.org.uk 01235 515144 Thu 7 Jun & 8 Jun 2pm MADMAN MAGELLAN Maps, globes, instruments and activities to discover the adventurous Magellan's early voyages of exploration.

Ages 7-13. Drop in.

Museum of the History of Science www.mhs.ox.ac.uk 01865 277280 Thu 7 Jun 11am – 4pm DINO DAY The dinosaurs are coming! Dig for fossils, design a dinosaur and more!

Ages 5+ Science Oxford Live www.scienceoxford.com/whats-on 01865 728953 Fri 8 Jun 11am & 2pm PAPER TOWERS What’s the strongest structure you can build out of paper? Put your engineering skills to the test in the challenge! Agesr 8+ Science Oxford Live www.scienceoxford.com/whats-on 01865 728953 Fri 8 Jun 10am - 3pm FAMILY BUSHCRAFT DAY Get that wild living feeling! Explore in the woods, make shelters, and even learn how to make a fire.

Earth Trust Centre, Little Wittenham, Abingdon OX14 4QZ www.earthtrust.org.uk 01865 407792 Sun 10 Jun 10am -5pm OXFORD UNITED CHARITY ADVENTURE DAY All proceeds go to Oxford United youth and community sports trust. Try taster sessions of mini tree-top adventure, zip slides, mini lasergaming adventure, parachute jump simulator, archery, woodland trails and more.

Culham Adventure Park Off the A415 between Oxford & Abingdon, Rear of Culham No1 Site, OX14 3DA www.culhamadventurepark.com 01865 727378 Thu 14 Jun 7.45pm LAZY DAISY ANTENATAL

RELAXATION CLASSES St Edburg's Church Hall, Bicester, OX26 6AU 07412 580853 Sat 16 Jun 1–4pm WHO WERE THE ANGLO-SAXONS? Hear the tales of early English history and design your own Anglo-Saxon pin or shield.

Ashmolean Museum www.ashmolean.org 01865 278000

JUNE Sun 17 Jun FATHERS’ DAY Free admission for every father accompanied by a paying child – young or old.

The Oxford Bus Museum

www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk 01993 883617 Sun 17 Jun FATHERS DAY FROLICS Dads are free with a paying child. With welly-wanging competitions throughout the day its time for the dads to take centre stage and show us how it’s done. Bug hunting on the tractor ride and more. All proceeds to Guide Dogs for the blind.

Roves Farm www.rovesfarm.co.uk 01793 763939

This space can be

yours from as little as £48 per issue.

No VAT editor@familiesox.co.uk

01235 206657

Sun 17 Jun FATHER’S DAY Dads get free entry to the ornamental gardens and there’ll be a special Fathers Day menu in the teashop, including a selection of local beers. Bedding and veg plants available.

Waterperry Gardens www.waterperrygardens.co.uk 01844 339254 Sun 17 Jun 9.30am, 10.30am & 3.00pm u 5s 1.30am 5+ CUSHION CONCERT – TRUMPET Jacqueline de Pre Music Building www.ticketsoxford.com 01865 305305 Thu 21 Jun 6.45-7.45pm SUCCEED IN SECONDARY Free workshop for children in Year 6 designed to help prepare for the transition to secondary.

Explore Learning inside Sainsburys, Heyford Hill, Oxford. www.explorelearning.co.uk 01865 595509 Sat 23 Jun 2pm GLOBE MAKERS Discover the Museum's collection of globes, how they were made, and make your own model globe. Ages 9-13. Booking required.

Museum of the History of Science www.mhs.ox.ac.uk 01865 277280 Sat 23 Jun 10.30 am - 3.30pm ON YOUR MARKS, SET…GO! See the new exhibition about Oxford’s sporting past, created by local people for local people.

Open to all, children must bring an adult with them.

Museum of Oxford http://tinyurl.com/MuseumofOxford 23 Jun 10.30am - 12.30pm FASCINATOR WORKSHOP Learn how to and actually make a fascinator to take home. Ages 14+ The Oxfordshire Museum www.tomocc.org.uk 01993 811456 23 & 24 Jun 12 noon - 12noon (24hr project) THE OXFORD BIOBLITZ Help experts identify and record every species in St Clement’s.

Oxford University Museum of Natural History www.oum.ox.ac.uk 01865 272 950 Sun 24 Jun 1pm – 5pm LONGCOT VILLAGE FAIR & DOG SHOW Join an afternoon packed with activities for all the family and their four-legged friends and George Scarrot will once again provide a mini fairground with some fabulous rides.

Call Glenice Larcombe 01793 783515 glarcombe@talktalk.net or see Longcot Village Facebook page.

Fri 29 Jun JUBILEE OUTDOOR PROMS WITH RUSSELL WATSON Free for under 5s.

Waddesdon Manor www.waddesdon.org.uk 01296 653226

JULY Sun 1 Jul 9.30am, 10.30am & 3.00pm u 5s 11.30am 5+

CUSHION CONCERT – KOTO Jacqueline de Pre Music Building www.ticketsoxford.com 01865 305305 Sat 7 Jul & Sun 8 Jul 10.00 am - late ALICE’S 150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Join a cast of colourful characters to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first telling of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. A brillig, free (mostly) day out for all ages. Dress up if you can.

The Story Museum www.storymuseum.org.uk Mon 9 Jul OLYMPIC TORCH EVENING CELEBRATION

EVENT South Park, Headington Road, Morrell Avenue, Oxford, OX3 9RG, www.london.2012/games

Send your diary dates for July - August by Friday 08 June 2012 to editor@familiesox.co.uk

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Copyright Families Oxfordshire May 2012. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owner's own risk and while every care is taken, neither Families nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families Oxfordshire is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take care in preparing this magazine but publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

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MAY / JUNE 2012