Families Warwickshire Issue 3 Jan-Feb 2012 by Families Magazine

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warwickshire

Issue 3 Jan/Feb 2012

Health & Wellbeing Make 2012 the healthiest yet for you and your family

Booking your holiday? Also in this issue

Family-friendly recommendations, at home and abroad

Independent School Open Days February Half-Term Guide

The new, really useful pick-me-up for local parents in Warwick and Stratford Districts

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Contents Issue 3 | January/February 2012 | Families Warwickshire

Design by Caroline Smith www.carolinesmithdesign.co.uk Printing by Warwick Printers www.warwickprinting.co.uk Front cover picture by Linda Scannell www.lindascannell.com All content Copyright 2012 Families Warwickshire

Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine for parents, covering Stratfordupon-Avon and Warwick Districts with 20,000 copies. Towns covered include Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, Leamington Spa and Kenilworth, plus Studley, Alcester, Bidford, Henley-in-Arden, Wellesbourne, Welford-on-Avon, Shipston-on-Stour and Southam. Advertise with us: Prices from just £40 Next issue: March/April 2012 Main features: Nurseries, Easter Activities and Mother’s Day. Deadline: February 10 Families Warwickshire is part of the Families 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 every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the content, nor for any consequence.

Health & Wellbeing: Tips on stress, diet and dental health

February Half Term: Great ideas for arty, sporty and outdoors kids

Regular Features

3 News 5 Clubs & Classes Education: 8 Independent school

Travel: Family-friendly ideas for your summer holidays

open days

r What’s on Luca & Maya Make: u An Ice Mobile

e 9

COME and sEE us

HOW TO FIND US MOONS MOAT

TO M42 J.3 (4 MILES)

Call: 01789 764667 E: editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

This Issue

Contact details

A4023

WINYATES GREEN

Arrow Valley Lake

One voucher per transaction. No cash alternative.

Please enter postcode to validate

Valid until 29th February 2012 at Studley Garden Centre

WE ARE HERE

REDDITCH

A4189

including play area for children, and special children’s menu.

MATCHBOROUGH

Plants, gifts and MuCh MOrE

Harvester

B4497

in the café

50% Off

PLUS!

TO HENLEY (5 MILES)

WINYATES

MAPPLEBOROUGH GREEN

STUDLEY ) TO ALCESTER (6 MILES

Studley Garden Centre (formerly Hillier Garden Centre), Henley Road, Mappleborough Green, Studley, Warwickshire B80 7DR Tel: 01527 852266 www.studleygardencentre.co.uk Open 9 - 5.30 Monday - Saturday, 10.30 - 4.30 Sunday. Our café closes half an hour before the garden centre.

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01789 764667

News & views Who? What? When? Why? Where?

Leamington’s First Lantern Parade a Great Success

Welcome... and a Happy New Year to all of our readers, and especially to our new readers in the Stratfordupon-Avon district – I hope you all really enjoy reading Families.

Nearly 400 adults and children flocked to Leamington on December 8 for the first ever Leamington Lantern Parade. Lanterns were carried from Christchurch Gardens, through the town centre to Regents Court, where everyone sang Christmas carols accompanied by the Royal Spa Brass Band and the Baptist Church Singers. More than 500 lanterns – Even though the dark ranging from traditional pyramid shapes through to enormous days are upon us, snowmen, Christmas trees, angels, Santa and even a dog – we’re bringing a bit of were created in schools and community workshops organised light this issue, with by BID Leamington and the Community Arts Workshop. summery suggestions Stephanie Kerr, executive director of BID Leamington, said: for family holidays, “We have been blown away by the enthusiasm and dedication of the whole community who came together on a windy and health tips to help A huge new mosaic of digital December evening to make the first Leamington Lantern with your New Year pictures was installed at the Parade a huge success. The lantern parade has proven such resolutions. Plus, we’ve Herbert Art Gallery & Museum a hit with families, schools and businesses this year that put together our pick in Coventry last month, to we will certainly bring it back next year with even more of the options for a fun celebrate its millionth visitor people and hundreds more lanterns.” Half Term. since its transformation in For more information, see www.leamingtonlanterparade.co.uk. 2008. The unique artwork depicts the gallery’s founder, As well as our website, the philanthropist Sir Alfred we’re on Facebook and Herbert, and is made out of Twitter, so do get in pictures of every event the touch if you have any gallery has held – meaning comments. I’d love to that anyone who has visited previously might be able to The grand final of a major hear from you! spot themselves in it. One schools acting competition is person it won’t include is the being filmed on the stage of the actual millionth visitor, Amelia Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Editor Mansell – it was her first visit! January, and will be broadcast on www.theherbert.org BBC Two on April 24, as part of the BBC’s Shakespeare Season for the London 2012 Festival. Students aged 13-15 have been competing in Off By Heart Shakespeare, a country-wide search for the best young performers of Shakespeare’s speeches. The final, on January 29 at 3pm, is open to the public, so go along and cheer on your An innovative charity champion! Tickets cost dedicated to enthusing just £5 if you’re under children about sport is 26, and £10 if you’re 26 organising free outdoor and over. running events in Leamington and Solihull. Races take place Book at www.rsc.org.uk on the first Saturday of the month, and each entrant can or by calling the track their results and progress from month to month on Education Ticket Hotline the website. The Leamington races take place just past the 0844 800 1113. Newbold Comwyn leisure centre, near the clubhouse, and the next ones are January 7th and February 4th. Go to the website to register: www.kidsrunfree.co.uk Do you have any news to share? Email editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01789 764667 www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk 3

Artwork Unveiled for the Herbert’s Millionth Visitor

The BBC Comes to the RSC to Find a Young Champion

Gabrielle Starkey

Kids Run Free in Leamington

For the past six years, mums across the country have been raising money in a fun way during Yummy Mummy week for CLIC Sargent, the charity that provides clinical, practical and emotional support for children and young people with cancer. This year’s week runs from Saturday 10 March to Sunday 18 March (Mother’s Day), and is a great way to spend quality time with friends and family while raising money for a very worthy cause. If you’d like to host a coffee morning, cake sale, a pamper night or sponsored buggy push (or anything else you can think of), register now for your fundraising pack. Alternatively, you can support the cause by buying gifts from the website. Last year, mums in the West Midlands raised £3,800 – let’s try to beat that this year! To register, call 08451 206 658 or go to www.yummymummy.org.uk

Sing and Sign Turns 10! Britain’s first baby signing classes turned 10 in 2011, and our local branch, headed by Pippa Jenkins, celebrated with a Best Baby Hat competition! Started in Brighton in 2001, the groundbreaking programme has since trained up more than 170 teachers and helped thousands of babies to communicate with their parents well before speech, which can reduce tantrums and aid in the bonding process. We wish Pippa – who runs classes in and around Stratford and Warwick – all the best for the next ten years! www.singandsign.com

Welcome the Spring with a Wassail! Warwickshire Wildlife Trust invites everyone down to Brandon Marsh Nature Centre on January 14, from 3.30-5pm, for a traditional wassail. The ancient ceremony involves making lots of noise to scare evil spirits away from the fruit trees and ensure a good harvest in the autumn. Youngsters will be able to make “trolls” and drink apple juice, while there will be cider for the adults.

Can You Help to Name a Pair of Roman Cats? The Lunt Roman Fort at Baginton, near Coventry, has employed a couple of feisty young fighters to protect it from incoming marauders – a pair of mouse-catching cats! They should help to keep the grain stores safe, but they need some help. All Romans had three names, but these new recruits only have two each – the male is Drusus Pollux, and the female is Drusilla Castor. Whoever thinks up the winning names for the black, white and tortoiseshell moggies will win a private guided tour of the reconstructed wooden fort (the only one in Britain) in March. To submit your entry contact Dominic Russell or Andrew Peel on 024 7678 6142 or email luntromanfort@theherbert.org by Tuesday 31 January 2012. www.luntromanfort.org

For more information on this and lots of other outdoor events for children, see the Half Term and What’s On guides, from p12, and www.warwickshire-wildlife-trust.org.uk

Do you have any news to share? Email: editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Webbs CEO Brings his Garden Centre Magic to Studley

Photo reproduced by kind permission of the Stratford-upon-Avon Herald

Start Planning for Yummy Mummy Week

Boyd J Douglas-Davies’s 20 years at Webbs of Wychbold saw it grow into the UK Garden Centre of the Year, so we’re expecting great things now he’s taken over at Studley Garden Centre (formerly Hilliers) at Mappleborough Green. “The site is set to have a face lift over the next few months,” said Boyd. “The outdoor play area is going to be significantly increased with new interactive play areas, and school holidays will be marked by a number of children’s activities.” The café has already introduced home-baked treats, so it should become a popular place for mums to meet and shop, while the children play. We have an extra-special offer of 10% off in the garden centre if you take your Families magazine along, and see p2 for another 50% off in the café! www.studleygardencentre.co.uk www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Clubs & Classes What’s happening at pre-school and after-school activities

See our full listings of clubs, classes and what’s on at www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

First Class Learning Fully meets National Now Curriculum Assessments enrolling ● Forms good study habits ● Increases confidence and develops self-esteem ● Unique programme for every child ●

For more information please call Office 01676 534741 or Mobile 0758 0976332 or look at the FCL web site

New Classes Take the Stress out of Messy Play

www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

We all know how much little ones like to get messy, but the work involved in preparation and clearing up often puts off even the most intrepid parent. Luckily, there is now a new class, devised and delivered by local mum-of-two Alix Hay, in which children as young as 6 months can get to grips with water, sand, scented playdough, jelly, shaving foam, instant snow powder, slime and much more. Materials change each week, so that children can try exploratory messy play, such as pouring and mixing, as well as different kinds of painting. Make A Mess classes are suitable for children up to the age of 4, and run in blocks of five consecutive weeks during term time, in Stratford upon Avon, Warwick and Chipping Campden. To book, call Alix on 07977 196047 or email hello@make-a-mess.co.uk, or see www.make-a-mess.co.uk for further details, including Make A Mess parties!

Dandy Development is Expanding Dandy Development baby and toddler classes have been so successful that a new class starts in Barford from January, and the first ten Families readers to sign up to a class of their choice (in Warwick, Leamington or Barford) can claim a free CD. The classes, which combine baby sign, music, sensory experiences (and fun!) encourage language and communication, hand-eye co-ordination, confidence and social and emotional development through the use of unique, handmade parachute hoops, shape sorters, water, dance ribbons, books, instruments, puppets, bubbles, jelly and lots more! The two stages have been carefully created to meet baby and toddler developmental milestones and also teach parents speech and language therapy techniques to help their child become a confident communicator. Free trial sessions are also available. To book call Nikki on 07890 241301 or see www.dandydevelopment.co.uk for further details.

Baby Signing Classes

in Leamington, Warwick and Stratford Learn to communicate with your baby BEFORE speech by using simple gestures - reduce frustration for both you and your baby! Babies as young as 6 months are learning to sign through music, rhymes and fun!

Classes include playtime and refreshments For more information, contact Pippa Jenkins on 01789 415591 or pippajenkins@singandsign.co.uk Find us online at www.singandsign.co.uk & www.facebook.com/singandsignsouthwarks

Make A Mess Messy Play for babies, toddlers and children up to 4 years of age

Alix Hay 07977 196 047 hello@make-a-mess.co.uk

www.make-a-mess.co.uk We do many classes but Dandy is by far the best of the bunch! Anna, mum to Lottie.

! AC E C N SING! DA Get Ahead with First Class Learning Is your child not being stretched enough, lacking confidence in the classroom or falling behind at school? A new tuition service in Kenilworth could help. Local teacher Alex Hawthorn opened First Class Learning at the Kenilworth Youth and Community Centre in the summer, to help children aged between 4 and 16 with Maths and English. After an initial assessment, children start from a point where they feel confident, and move through the specially designed programme at a pace which suits them. The programmes are designed by a team of Maths and English specialists with a wealth of experience in primary, secondary and special needs education and are supported by the British Dyspraxia Foundation. For more information, call Alex on 01676 534741 or 0758 0976332 or see www.firstclasslearning.co.uk/ centres/kenilworth/

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

T NOW!

The original, largest and sTill the best network of performing arts schools in the world.

NEW and exciting baby and toddler development classes that combine baby sign, music, sensory experiences and fun! Classes in Leamington, Contact Nikki for a free Offchurch, trial session on Warwick 07890 241301 and now in Barford. nikki.sayers@hotmail.co.uk

talk, share and play: we’ll grow in every way!

Nurturing and developing young peoples potential through dance, drama and singing. For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

stagecoach leamington spa, Warwick and Kenilworth Enrolling Now

Call: 01789 263 464

email: leamingtonspa@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/leamingtonspa

Theatre Arts Schools

Stagecoach 5

All aboard for summer 2012 It’s the depths of winter, so every family’s thoughts naturally turn to where they will be this summer. Joanna Moorhead has lots of ideas... Cyprus chillout

The Alps in August Switzerland isn’t just for skiing: in fact, the Alps can be one of the loveliest places in Europe for a summer holiday en famille. As well as beautiful weather, there’s a wealth of sporty things to do for both smaller children and teenagers. Chilly Powder runs its Morzine chalet hotel through the summer as well as the winter, offering the same attractions (professionally-cooked food, childcare etc) and with the emphasis on comfortable living alongside a wealth of outdoor pursuits. Morzine is an 8-hour drive from Calais, or fly to Geneva and hire a car; the chalet has 17 bedrooms and there’s even a hot tub in the garden.

Perfect for: sporty families with children in different age ranges Midsummer prices: from around £120 per adult per night, discount for children, half-board

www.chillypowder.com

Affordable luxury, at home or away Glamping is the way to go: much more reasonable prices than villas or hotels, and a wide range of family-friendly sites. And what’s new on the glamping block for 2012 is an ever-widening range of top-notch accommodation: for 2012, Select Camp has a new range of what it’s calling its ‘lodge suites’ featuring a canopy bed, free-standing oval bath, fully-equipped kitchen, shower and toilet – and a separate junior lodge tent next to the main suite. Select Camp also has four new sites, three in Italy and one in Spain – and coming soon, a brand new website which should make browsing and booking a lot easier too.

Perfect for: Budget-conscious, adventurous families

Midsummer prices: from around £24 per person, per night

www.selectcamp.co.uk

Small kids and overseas travel don’t always mix, but if you do go abroad, what you need is a smooth travel company to take care of your transfers and to have looked over your accommodation with a parent’s eye. All this and more is on offer at Aztec Villas, where stairgates, toys and lots more come as standard. Villas are well-maintained and stylishly decorated, situated in resorts that contain everything you’ll need for a perfect holiday – and if you choose a villa at Pernera, all those attractions will be within walking distance. So when you’re not chilling out by the pool you can be enjoying the camel park, the diving centre, one of the water parks or taking voyage on a pirate ship around the bay, before ambling back at sundown for drinks and dinner by your pool.

Perfect for: Families with small kids in search of a no-sweat break

Midsummer prices: from around £26 per person, per night

www.aztecvillas.co.uk

Hideaway in Robin Hood’s forest What child wouldn’t be excited to be holidaying in the centre of the wood made famous by the legendary Robin Hood? And what parent wouldn’t be happy to join them, now Forest Holidays are extending their venues to this one? The new lodges, which open this spring, will be set in the middle of 3,300 acres of forest, and include basic cabins to de luxe ‘golden oak plus’ cabins with their own hot tub. Loads to do for all ages – Sherwood Forest has a

glorious labyrinth of cycle trails, plus farm parks, arts and craft centres and play areas.

Perfect for: active families in search of a change from Center Parcs (and more of a bargain) Midsummer prices: From around £30 per person per night http://www.forestholidays.co.uk

Away from the crowds in Norfolk If you love Cornwall and Devon, but are frustrated by the prices and the crowds, why not head instead for Norfolk? Cottage prices for midsummer are cheaper, it will take you less time to get there and it’s much easier to get to and from the beaches and other attractions because the roads are far less clogged. For a comfortable, childfriendly cottage, look on the Recommended Family Holidays website under the ‘East of England’ tab. Poppyland Cottages, for example, have a range of properties dotted around a series of beautiful villages, and within easy reach of lovely Blue Flag beaches – and everything on the website has been checked for family-friendliness. Great pubs for lunches and suppers out, too – and Norfolk is also a very good option for families who love cycling.

Perfect for: Families with young children wanting to get away from the crowds

Midsummer prices: from around £21 per person, per night

www.recommendedfamilyholidays.com

Further afield... If you’re looking for something more exotic, recommendedfamilyhotels.com has a choice of hotels in the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East and Africa, as well as Europe – all recommended by real families who’ve stayed in them. Scottdunn.com, meanwhile, can help you craft the family holiday of a lifetime whether it’s somewhere far-flung like Thailand or Nepal that you’re after, or luxury in the Med. Markwarner.co.uk have wonderful family-friendly resorts in Corsica, Turkey, Portugal, Sardinia and Greece – ideal destinations if you don’t want a long flight.

Camping meets boutique hotel Molly Dishwasher isn’t just an unusual name for a holiday experience – it’s an unusual experience, too. You stay in a shepherd’s hut nestled among acres of meadows and woodland in deepest Sussex. A comfy double for you, bunk beds for the children, all squeezed into a small but beautiful space with oodles of special little touches. Young children adore staying somewhere different, and they love pulling

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01789 764667

Are we nearly there yet? Ben Hatch, his wife Dinah and their two children Phoebe (3) and Charlie (1) spent 5 months touring Britain’s family-friendly attractions for Ben’s new book Are We Nearly There Yet?. In the course of 8000 miles they reviewed 900 attractions, slept in tents, mobile homes, castles, hotels and, once, in their car. They were attacked by bats and had confrontations with puff adders, Nazis and Billie Piper’s pyjamas. Here, Ben highlights some things he now knows:

Not owning a sat-nav today is like being a 14th century sailor and trying to round the Cape without a nautical chart. We bought one halfway through our trip. Put it this way, if I had a choice – brakes or sat-nav? – I’d gladly drill a hole in the driver’s footwell and use my feet to slow down.

Warwick Castle is a fabulous family outing that includes trebuchet, archery and falconry demonstrations that are perfectly timed throughout the day so that if you hurry between activities, alternately bribing and scolding your children to hurry up, you can still just about miss every single one.

At Shakespeare’s Birthplace Museum in Stratford-upon-Avon we learnt that when period costumed performers suddenly jump out of nowhere and start launching into performances of Shakespeare plays, these actors will also happily pose for snaps and pretend not to mind having their tights wiped with the luminous orange residue from your son’s Hipp Organic spaghetti bolognaise.

It’s unwise to allow Dinah, my wife, who has a raging cheloniaphobia (fear of tortoises and any creatures that look like tortoises), to wander untended through Birdworld in Farnham. I’m also aware now, that afterwards telling her, as she hyperventilates into a bag, “I’m sorry, I thought Tortoise Hill was just a description of what the hill looked like, not a description of what lived on the hill,” cuts little ice. their parents into their adventures – which is what makes Molly Dishwasher such a hit. Plus breakfast included, a BBQ and food on hand, and loads of places to explore in the area including Drusilla’s Zoo, Battle Abbey, Hever Castle and endless beaches.

Perfect for: families with small children who want a pint-sized adventure without having to travel too far. Midsummer prices: Around £20 per person per night www.mollydishwasher.com

Pamper yourself in Devon The word ‘barton’ means ‘a small country estate’ in Devon, so head for Libbear Barton for a slice of laid-back country high life, half an hour from the nearest beach. Libbear Barton is a 40-acre farm with four properties: the Georgian farmhouse (sleeping up to 14) and three cottages. Rent one if you’re holidaying with your immediate family, or rent two or even all of Tel: 01789 764667

In Welly Boot Land at the Slimbridge Wetland Centre, after handling ducklings and feeding wild fowl (“There’s some for you, swan. And you, goose. No, you’ve had yours, heron,”) it isn’t a good idea to take your eyes off your children. There’s an artificial stream running through the play-park that our children attempted, fully clothed, to swim up like salmons running to their native breeding grounds.

At the Jorvik Viking Centre in York it’s possible, through responding to a series of questions about your hair colour (and also, somewhat bafflingly, your sandwich filling of choice), to see how much Viking blood you possess.

After almost being blown up in a field of live ordnance inside a Military Zone, near Otterburn, we’ve learnt to be careful taking the kids for nature wees and to look out for signs saying: “Warning: This may explode and kill you.”

It’s easy stealing lunch from hotel breakfast buffets. Secretive initially, we’d pilfer odd rolls when waitresses backs were turned. A few weeks in, feral, we were snatching Camembert triangles, bacon, sausages and yoghurts, then asking for napkins to wrap it all up in.

Cheap in-car dvd players are inadvisable. Ours kept disconnecting from the cigarette lighter and returning the film to the beginning every time my wife scratched her leg in the passenger seat. Consequently, despite watching Finding Nemo 10 times, our kids are still unaware that Nemo was eventually reunited with his father.

Finally, if all distractions in the car fail, turn up Classic FM to max volume and kid yourself you aren’t muffling the kids’ din with an even louder one, but that you’re educating them about Haydn.

You can see more of Ben’s highlights at www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Backed by an unlikely combination of Mumsnet, John Cleese and Sophie Kinsella, Are We Nearly There Yet? 8000 Misguided Miles Round Britain is available from all good bookshops and from Amazon for £5 here http://tinyurl.com/8286r94

them if you’re bringing your extended clan or another family or families along (the maximum number of guests is 39). The whole place is kitted out with underfives in mind, so you won’t need to worry about cramming the car with clobber – even buggies are provided. You won’t need to leave the farm every day, because there’s plenty to do there – an adventure playground, indoor swimming pool, woodland and meadows, a fishing lake, games room and loads and loads of play space. For those days when you do want to venture out, north Devon is teeming with family-friendly things to do, and the beautiful beach at Bude is only 15 miles away.

Perfect for: groups of families holidaying together

Midsummer prices: from £36 per person per night, based on full occupancy in July/August

www.libbearbarton.co.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Wish you were here... Families editors on their best-ever holidays on www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Villa to Rent Comfortable Villa Excellent Views (Sea & Mountain) Sleeps 6. Shared Pool. Close to Beach & Shops. Fly to Malaga. Phone for availability. 0121 777 7766 e: rebeccajackson99@hotmail.com

Education News compiled by Joanna Parry Independent School Open Events in January and February 2012 Princethorpe College Rugby CV23 9PX Tel: 01926 634200 www.princethorpe.co.uk e: lorettacurtis@princethorpe.co.uk Co-ed, ages 11-16 Open Morning: Thurs 12 Jan, 10.30am-12.30pm. Entrance Examinations: Sat 21 Jan Stratford Preparatory School Church House, Old Town, Stratford upon Avon CV37 6BG Tel: 01789 297993 www.stratfordprep.co.uk e: secretary@stratfordprep.co.uk Co-ed, Montessori nursery ages 2-4; Main school ages 4-11 Open Day: Thurs 12 Jan, 10am-2pm and 6-8pm Warwick School Warwick, CV34 6PP Tel: 01926 776400 www.warwickschool.org Email: enquiries@warwickschool.org Boys, ages 7-18 Open Day: Sat 14 Jan, 10am-12noon. Entrance Examinations for 7+ to 10+: Mon 20 Feb Crackley Hall and Little Crackers Nursery St Joseph’s Park, Kenilworth CV8 2FT Tel: 01926 514444 www.princethorpe.co.uk/main//Crackley_Hall_School e: post@crackleyhall.co.uk Co-ed, Little Crackers, ages 2-4; Crackley Hall, ages 4-11 Open Day: Tuesday 17 Jan, 10am-3pm King Henry VIII Preparatory School Coventry, CV3 Tel: 024 7627 1307 www.khps.co.uk e: headmasterpa@khps.co.uk Co-ed, ages 3-11 Open Morning: Sat 21 Jan, 9.30am-12.30pm on the Swallows Campus for ages 3-8 (Yr 3), and 10am-1pm on the Hales Campus for ages 8 (Yr 4) – 11. There will be minibus transport between the campuses. Entrance Assessment for Yrs 3-6 on Sat 4 Feb Emscote House School and Day Nursery 46 Warwick Road, Leamington Spa, CV32 5DE Tel: 01926 425067 www emscotehouseschool.co.uk Co-ed, ages 6 weeks-8 years Open Days: Thurs 2 and Fri 3 Feb, 9.30am-4pm, and Sat 4 Feb, 9.30am-1pm Warwick Preparatory School Warwick, CV34 6PL. Tel: 01926 491545 www.warwickprep.com e: info@warwickprep.com Boys, ages 3-7; Girls, ages 3-11 Open Day: Sat 4 Feb, 9.30am-12noon The Kingsley School Beauchamp Avenue, Leamington Spa, CV32 5RD. Tel: School Registrar, Mrs Carole Watson, 01926 421368 www.thekingsleyschool.com e: carolewatson@kingsleyschool.co.uk Boys, ages 3-7; Girls, ages 3-18 Preparatory School Open Morning: Sat 25 Feb, 11am-1pm

Day Nursery Schools Quality Pre-School Education and Care • Ages 3 months to 5 years • CCTV and Door-entry • Small group sizes security • Open 8.00am to 6.00pm • Grant Funding processed • Mature qualiﬁed staff • Teachers specializing in • Home cooked meals Music, Dance & French • Ofsted approved (subject to availability) Clarendon Street, 106 Wake Green21Road 19 Woodland Road, Leamington Spa CV32 5SW Moseley, B13 9PZ. Northﬁ eld, B31 2HU. Tel: 01926-888681 Tel: 0121-449-3673 Tel: 0121-475-8416

Don’t forget to say you saw the advert in Families

An Independent Day School and Nursery for boys aged 3-7 and girls aged 3-11

Saturday 4 February 2012 – 9.30am to 12noon

OPen Day

Warwick Preparatory School, Bridge Field, Banbury Road,Warwick CV34 6PL For further information please visit www.warwickprep.com alternatively call 01926 491545 or email admissions@warwickprep.com

More schoolchildren have ‘special needs’ A new report shows that the number of children diagnosed with special needs has risen by 10 per cent in the past five years, amid concerns that schools are “playing the system” to disguise poor exam results. According to the Department for Education, around 1.7m school children in England (which is more than 1 in 5) have been diagnosed with special educational needs and suffer from behavioural problems, learning difficulties or physical disabilities. A report published this winter by the Department concluded that both boys and children from the most deprived backgrounds were more likely to be classified as having special needs than any other group. The study also underlined the link between special needs and poor examination results, with only one-fifth of children with special needs leaving school with five good GCSEs. But Ofsted is concerned that up to half of children were wrongly labelled ‘special needs’ as a way to mask inadequate teaching, and that “higher expectations of all children” would lead to an actual drop in the number being diagnosed. As a result, the Government has proposed an overhaul of the system, with Ministers trialing the reforms in a number of locations, including Solihull.

Boys go single sex New figures show that more and more parents are sending their sons to boys-only prep schools with the intention of giving them a competitive and sporty education. In fact, 72 per cent of boys’ schools have seen pupil numbers rise since last year, according to a survey by the Independent Association of Prep Schools (IAPS). The findings also found that just 14 per cent of boys’ schools have recorded a decrease in pupil numbers. However, it also noted a drop in numbers at girls’ schools, with 56 per cent of schools reporting that attendances had dropped in the past year compared with only a third who recorded an increase. 324 schools were surveyed, with the results showing, according to the IAPS, that parents were looking to guarantee their sons an “interesting and challenging” education. Having high numbers of male teachers and excellent sporting and extracurricular activities could also have played a part in attracting parents, according to the report. The results of the report were published at the IAPS annual conference where David Hanson, chief executive of the IAPS, said: “This growth has been achieved by our schools providing worldclass education. We are aware of the economic challenges parents face and the sacrifices they make but parents know that investing in education is the best investment you will ever make.”

Would you like to see your school’s news or achievements on this page? Email editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01789 764667

Health & Wellbeing

Whip your family’s diet and stress levels into shape with our New Year tips The mind and body are connected, so it’s important for your health – and your family’s – to live with an optimistic attitude. This can be hard when we’re burdened by stress, so make this the year to make some small, easy changes that will have a profound affect on your life, your outlook and the world around you. It’s time to lighten up! (www.meatfreemondays.com), to use only natural products on your child’s delicate skin. and feel virtuous while you’re dishing up baked potatoes with Get outside One of the worst traps parents It’s easy to get into unhealthy ways of eating, particularly if baked beans, cheesey-peas can fall into is thinking Fresh air is free, and families your pre-baby social life has pasta or Spanish omelette? they have to do everything need more of it. Monitor the been replaced by exhausted themselves, and mums are Detox your home time your children spend in evenings in front of the TV, especially guilty of this. We front of screens, and let them Your kitchen and bathroom with wine and snacks! Eating overburden ourselves with amuse themselves with books cupboards can contain lots and drinking to excess on a responsibility, and forget that and games, indoors or out, at regular basis leads to a vicious of chemical-laden cleaning we are important too. Take other times. Walk to school products and food storage. cycle of weight gain, lack time to listen to yourself – and back if you possibly can. If Never heat food in plastic, as of energy and reaching for have your nights out with you’re in the Leamington area, chemicals can leach into the the sugar to cheer you up. A friends turned into a moanwhy not join up with Kids Run “detox” is one way to stop and hot food, and avoid biological fest? Are you constantly Free (www.kidsrunfree), who washing powder, as it attacks take stock before you change snapping at your kids or put on free children’s races on your diet for the better. As with living organisms – and that spouse? These are signs that Newbold Comyn? Or visit any includes the fish and frogs in every lifestyle change, check you need some attention yourself. You may be depressed with your GP before you start. the rivers it will end up in. The of the many local parks for a kickabout. Whoever said same applies to bleach – use and need some counselling, “There’s no such thing as it sparingly – as our modern I recently tried the Forever you might want to see a life bad weather, just the wrong obsession with cleanliness in coach to help you get your life Clean-9 detox diet, which clothes,” was right – wrap up our houses has been blamed back on track, or you may just comes in a handy box with warm and even a walk in the for weakening our children’s everything you need for 9 need a pamper day at the spa, immune systems. And also try snow is a pleasure! days – supplements, protein to relax and unwind. Exercise shake mix and aloe vera is important too, as it’s been proven to improve your mood drinking gel, which is full of antioxidants and soothes the as well as your health. If you digestive system. The first two have a small child, try to find days were tough – virtually a a gym with a crèche, such as fast, with the unfamiliar gel the Wildmoor in Stratford tasting vile (like TCP with (which is running free health lemon juice added!). But after checks for non-members at that, it was a breeze, helped by the moment) – having the 24-hour online support from childcare built-in will help you to keep going. Remember a community of women also doing the detox. At the end of that happier parents make Day 9 I’d lost 5lb, my skinny happier kids, and – on the jeans were back on and I felt flipside – you can’t look after full of energy and a lot more them if you’re unwell, so if joining a gym is your New Year cheerful. Lots of other detoxes are available, but if you’d like resolution, use that to try Clean 9, call Natalie on as motivation. 01905 820411.

Destress

Detox your body

WILDMOOR SPA HEALTH CHECK

Ditch the meat – for one day, at least

One simple way to make your diet healthier is to eat less meat. Most of us eat too much of it, and the methane livestock produce has been proven to contribute to global warming. Why not get on board with Paul McCartney’s Meat-Free Mondays campaign www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

ARE YOU DUE A SERVICE?

BOOK IN FOR YOUR FREE HEALTH CHECK & CONSULTATION Call: 01789 299666

Email: membershipsales@wildmoorspa.com Terms and conditions apply, Strictly over 18’s only. Booking is essential. Crèche facilities available. All health checks & consultations will be carried out by qualified level 3 instructors

â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are what you eatâ&#x20AC;? has never been more believable, with Channel 4â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recent series The Food Hospital bringing the power of food as medicine into everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s front room. Micki Rose of Purehealth Clinic in Warwick gives us a few pointers on diet for healthy babies and children.

Pregnancy

School children

Obviously, this is a time when nutrition is vital to help build a healthy baby. Try to avoid sugar and aim for a diet based on fruit, veg, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, pulses, fish and eggs (organic, where possible). Try to eat every three hours, to keep your blood sugar level, and take a supplement designed for pregnancy. Things to avoid include cows milk products, liver, cod liver oil, meat pates, peanuts, unpasteurised soft or blue cheese, raw eggs including mayonnaise, raw meat or fish and ready to eat salads. Drink plenty of water, avoid toxins (including nicotine and alcohol) and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go on a diet! A healthy weight gain is anything between 11-33lb.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not happy with the school dinner your child is offered, take control by making a packed lunch. Be warned, though â&#x20AC;&#x201C; peer pressure can put a child off eating anything too different from his or her friends, and swaps are a common occurrence!

Try the following: n Fill a wholemeal roll with left-over meat from Sunday dinner and salad, or try peanut butter (no salt or sugar variety) and mashed banana, or tuna and mayonnaise with bits of cucumber and tomato. n Instead of sandwiches, give them a cold brown/corn pasta salad or a brown rice salad with bits in that they like: try cherry tomatoes, small bits of broccoli, olives, Babies gerkins, sundried tomatoes, cashew nuts, Breastfeeding really is best, and if you find raisins etc with a little olive oil dressing. it hard, make sure you get help quickly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; n Include at least one piece of fruit - try go to your GP and/or see our Regular Groups berries, plums or a pear instead of the (p14-15) for a drop-in session near you. While ubiquitous apple. breastfeeding, drink more fluid (about 1.5 litres n Add a few cherry tomatoes, nuts and raisins a day) but avoid coffee, tea or anything sugary. or, even better, a few organic nuts and a Take a special mineral supplement, and make couple of unsulphured dried apricots. sure you get your omegas for babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brain n Give them a flask of filtered water, organic development â&#x20AC;&#x201C; either eat oily fish twice a apple or orange juice or include a good week (good quality, avoid tuna as potentially quality fruit smoothie, such as the high mercury levels) or linseeds or pumpkin Innocent ones. seeds, or take linseed or flaxseed oil. Eat plenty n Alternatively, give them a food flask of fruit and veg, complex carbs (oats, brown containing a good quality plain live yogurt rice, pulses) and keep your blood sugar steady (preferable soya) to which you have added with small, regular meals. If your baby suffers some honey and berries or stirred in some from colic or eczema, avoid dairy foods and pure fruit jam. drink fennel or lemon balm tea.

Supplements for children

Weaning

Recommended ones include Nutrigold Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Start weaning when your child canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sleep Play capsules or Biocare Kids Complete through the night without a feed and/or is Complex Powder, Nutri Eskimo Kids essential developing teeth. Then use pureed fruit, fatty acids and Nutrigold Pro-otic probiotics. vegetables, then move on to beans and pulses and then to non-gluten grains (brown rice, Contact Micki at www.purehealthclinic.co.uk millet, quinoa etc). Give only a small amount for more help. of pureed meat and fish at the start to avoid triggering allergies. Avoid beef or cows milk1HDUO\ QHZ IRU EDE\ until after 6 months or whilst breastfeeding. After 10 months, introduce some gluten grains such as barley and oats, ground nuts and seeds and soya. In their second year, add some wheat, dairy and eggs and shellfish and only after their Buy and sell nearly new baby clothes, toys and 5th year introduce whole peanuts. equipment within Coventry & Warwickshire for free! 6KRSSLQJ IRU D EDUJDLQ" Â&#x2021; Â&#x2021; Â&#x2021;

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Contacts and further information: Warwickshire Pregnancy and Birth Network Brilliant group of local therapists and midwives, all accessible through one website. www.pregnancyandbirth network.co.uk Ally Purchon Acupuncture Ally works at The Arden Medical Centre and Life-Ways Complementary Centre in Stratford-upon-Avon, treating children from 7 years and over, teenagers and adults. Call 07717 103115 e: alisonpurchon@aol.com www.allypurchonacupuncture. co.uk Micki Rose at Purehealth Clinic Naturopathic nutrional advice for health and fertility. Call 01926 419220 or 07986 153854 www.purehealthclinic.co.uk www.trulyglutenfree.co.uk www.mickirose.wordpress.com Stratford Dental Studio Child-friendly dentistry with an emphasis on prevention of problems. Aromatherapy and reflexology for nervous patients. Call 01789 262848 e: info@sdssmile.com www.sdssmile.com The Cotton Nappy Company As well as real nappies, this lovely Leamington shop â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and online store â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sells natural and eco-friendly products including organic toiletries, slings and toys. Call 01926 430000 www.thecottonnappycompany. co.uk The NCT If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re expecting or have a baby, the NCT is invaluable. See Regular Groups on p14/15 for details of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on, or contact them directly: Stratford upon Avon & District Call 0844 243 6284 e: info@nctstratford.org.uk www.nct.org.uk/branches/ stratford-upon-avon Warwickshire Central Call 08442436314 info.nctwarks@googlemail.com www.nct.org.uk/branches/ warwickshire-central

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Buy and sell nearly new baby clothes, toys and equipment within Coventry & Warwickshire for free!

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www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Dental health is also important for little ones. Here, Dr Silvia Hamer of Stratford Dental Studio gives some extra tips on keeping their smiles beautiful. Some parents think their children’s diet is free from sugar, because they don’t eat sweets. But when they see their dentist, they are surprised to learn that the child needs fillings. This is because of “free sugar”, which tends to be loaded into preprepared foods to give a better taste. “Free sugar” is present in many foods, for example breakfast cereals, yoghurts, ketchup, soft drinks, medicines etc. So it is important to read labels and check what type of carbohydrates they have, and how many grams per 100g of the product. It is almost impossible to completely avoid sugar – and not many of us would want to! But it should be regulated, for overall health as well as to safeguard teeth. Foods containing “free sugars” should not be consumed more than four times a day. Every time sugar is consumed the saliva becomes very acidic for 40 minutes, and during that period a small amount of the minerals that are in the outer layer leave the teeth. After this time the saliva will regain its natural balanced neutral acidity and the teeth will become remineralised once again. If sugar is consumed for longer periods or is eaten very often, the saliva will be acidic for longer, and the process of minerals leaving the teeth will exceed the process of minerals returning to it. The mouth’s bacteria use the sugar present in the food to produce the acid, therefore the consistency of the food is also important because sticky food – eg honey, jelly beans, toffee – will be present for longer. Dental erosion is increasing in young people and is associated with dietary acids, a major source of which are soft and fizzy drinks. Drinks other than milk and water should be the minority of total drinks and should be given only at a main mealtime, although we recommend that you don’t drink them every day. For those whose children already drink squash, undiluted juice and fizzy drinks, it is advised to dilute them progressively with water until your child doesn’t need them. Night-time can be an especially dangerous time for teeth, if they have not been brushed properly. For this reason it is advised to always brush a child’s teeth before sleep, don’t use sugary medicines last thing at night, and don’t allow babies to fall sleep with the bottle or to go to bed with it. Call 01789 262 848 , email info@sdssmile.com or see www.sdssmile.com for more help.

WIN!

Snugglebundl is a brand new baby blanket designed to help you lift your baby without bending down – perfect for bad backs or C-section mummies. We have 2 Snugglebundls to give away. To enter, go to www.familiesonline. co.uk/competitions

Don’t forget to say you saw it in Families! www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

February Half Term There are loads of things for children to get up to this Half Term, whether they’re sporty, arty or enjoy the great outdoors. Try one of these – and don’t forget to say you saw them in Families!

Sports and Dance Holiday Courses at Warwick School are open to everyone and include: Hockey, Indoor Football, Lifesaving, Cricket, Dance/ Gym, Wall Climbing, Squash, Robotics, Synchronised Swim and Pool Kayaking. For more details contact Eileen Braham: ebr@warwickschool.org or call 01926 735473. Everyone Active run the leisure centres

in Stratford, Studley, Southam and Shipston. There’ll be something planned at all of the centres. Some details are below, but see www.everyoneactive.com for more, or call your local centre: Stratford Choose from many sports Crash Courses, including swimming, mini gymnastics (Under 5’s), gymnastics, trampolining and dance. For further information contact michellewykes@slm-ltd.co.uk or to book, call 01789 268826. Southam See www.everyoneactive.com or call 01926 817788.

Arts, Crafts and Culture Holiday Courses at Warwick School also include Art, Sewing and Moving Lego. For more details contact Eileen Braham: ebr@warwickschool.org or call 01926 735473. Stratford Leisure Centre’s activities also include Drama, Arts and Crafts. For more details contact michellewykes@slm-ltd.co.uk or call 01789 268826. Landscapes and Cityscapes at The Herbert,

Jordan Well, Coventry CV1 5QP. Mon 13–Fri 17 Feb, 10.30am–12.30pm & 1.30-3.30pm Free session exploring landscapes and cities. Suitable for 4+ but all are welcome. For details, see www.theherbert.org

Curious Creatures at Warwickshire’s Libraries.

Learn about some of the odd things in the museum collections, and make a sock animal to take home. Suitable for ages 5-12, £2.50. Early booking is advised. Mon 13 Feb Stratford Library 2-3.30pm, Tues 14 Feb Leamington Library10.30am-12noon Wed 15 Feb Market Hall Museum, Warwick

Outdoor fun February Frolics at Hatton Country World, Dark Lane, Hatton, Warwick CV35 8XA. Sat 11-Fri 19 Feb, 10am-5.30pm Spring has sprung at Hatton, where Little Bo Peep will be kept busy with all the new lambs. More than 50 ewes are expected to give birth over Half Term in Hatton’s special Lambing Marquee, so lucky visitors may see a lamb being born, as well as seeing them being nursed by their mothers. Farm Village shepherd Pete Mobley will be running talks throughout the week introducing children to the various breeds found at the farm village. Plus there’ll be Bird-o-Batics falconry shows, kids’ theatre and discos and all the usual Hatton magic. For more details, see www.hattonworld.com 12

Studley Swimming Crash Courses are planned, for Pre-School, Stage 2 and Stage 3, plus half-hour Football for 3-11 years and adults and Street Dance for 5-14 years and adults. See www.everyoneactive.com, or call 01527 857161. Shipston Crash Course swimming lessons will be on MondayThursday mornings, for Pre-School and beyond. See www.everyoneactive.com, or call 01608 662354.

Holiday Clubs Fit for Sport deliver healthy-lifestyle activity

day camps at Studley and Stratford leisure centres during the holidays for children aged between 5-12 years. Book early to receive 10% early bird discount. These Ofsted-registered camps are a fun and safe way to make friends and take part in a wide range of sports and activities. Call 0845 456 3233 or book at www.fitforsport.co.uk

OnSide run dance, multi-sport and football courses

for 5-11 year-olds in Stratford, Warwick and Rugby. See www.onsidecoaching.co.uk, call 01926 496 406 or email info@onsidecoaching.co.uk

10.30am-12noon AND 1.30-3pm, Thurs 16 Feb Rugby Library 11am-12.30pm, Coleshill Library 2.30-4pm See www.warwickshire.gov.uk/libraries for more.

Play in a Day at Warwick Arts Centre (Butterworth Hall), University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Thurs 16 Feb, Workshop 10am (£25), Performance 7pm (£1.50). A one-day drama workshop, with a performance in the evening. Suitable for ages 8-14. www.warwickartscentre.co.uk Half Term Art Club at Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Royal Pump Rooms, Leamington Spa, CV32 4AA. Thurs 16 Feb, 30-minute sessions start at 2pm, 2.45pm and 3.30pm. Suitable for ages 6-12 years. Free. http://www.warwickdc.gov.uk/wdc/royalpumprooms

A Cat’s Tale at St John’s House Museum, Warwick CV34 4NF. Fri 17 Feb, 10.30am-12noon & 1.30pm-3pm, £2.50 per child, 5s and under £1. Just drop in. All ages welcome, but 8s and under must be accompanied by an adult. Learn about a former resident of St John’s House who had lots of cats and never washed! Make your own cat to take home. www.warwickshire.gov.uk/museum

Craft Sessions at Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, Brandon Marsh Nature Centre, Brandon Lane, Coventry CV3 3GW. £4 per child/£3 for Warwickshire Wildlife Trust member Mon 13 Feb: Winter Dens, 10.30am-12noon, for ages 4+. Build a den in the woods and make a woodland craft. Tues 14 Feb: Kite Making, 10.30am-12noon Suitable for all ages, £2 per kite. Wed 15 Feb: Wild about Rabbits, 10.30am-12noon, for ages 4+. Learn about rabbits and make a rabbit mask. Thurs 16 Feb: Teddy Bears’ Picnic for Tots, 10.30am12noon. Suitable for ages 2-4 years. Fri 17 Feb: Winter Colours for Tots, 10.30am-12noon Suitable for ages 2-4 years. Create your own masterpiece. For more details, see www.warwickshire-wildlife-trust.org.uk www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On events calendar

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On

Please phone before you go, in case details have changed since we went to print

Things to do and places to go in Warwickshire

Events Calendar Arty Tots

Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Royal Pump Rooms, The Parade, CV32 4AA Wed 4 Jan, 11am-12noon Explore, play and create. Recommended for under 5s and their carers. Free, just drop in and join in. www.warwickdc.gov.uk/wdc/ royalpumprooms

Kids Run Free Event

Newbold Comyn, Leamington Spa (just past the leisure centre, near the club house) Sat 7 Jan Free, organised running events for children aged 0-16. www.kidsrunfree.co.uk

Online Child Behaviour Course Starts Mon 9 Jan Transform your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behaviour with a 4-week online course, including phone and email support and a downloadable manual. Cost is ÂŁ97. Sign up on the website. Call 07929 047110 or email childbehaviour@hotmail.co.uk www.childbehaviourdirect.com

Comedy 4 Kids with James Campbell

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sat 14 Jan, 2pm A fun show for anyone who likes comedy without the rude words. In the Studio, 1hr. Recommended for ages 6+. ÂŁ9.25 (ÂŁ6.25) www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Wassailing

Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, Brandon Marsh Nature Centre, Brandon Lane, Coventry, CV3 3GW (just off A45 Toll Bar island â&#x20AC;&#x201C; near Coventry Airport) Sat 14 Jan, 3.30-5pm Join the Wassail! Awaken the fruit trees and scare away evil spirits to ensure a good harvest of fruit in the autumn. Make trolls, drink apple juice (or cider. for the grown-ups!) and make lots of noise. Parents must accompany 2-7 year olds. ÂŁ3 per person or ÂŁ4 for non Warwickshire Wildlife Trust member. To book call 024 7630 2912.

11.30am-12.15pm A playful movement class for children aged 2-5 years and their carers, encouraging childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s individuality and creativity. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free, but booking essential as space is limited. Please call reception on 024 7629 4774 to secure your place. www.theherbert.org

Mead Gallery Family Art Workshops: Marks to Music

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sat 21 Jan, 1pm-2.30pm Experiment with inks, pencils and paints and move to a variety of music. Suitable for ages 6+. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the Workshop space. ÂŁ3.50 per child (accompanying adult free). Tickets available in advance or on the day from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. For more details phone the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon-9pm, Mon-Sat). www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Baby Resuscitation

Stratford Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre, Drayton Avenue CV37 9PB. Tues 24 Jan A one-off session that could save the life of a baby. Booking required. Call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk

Get Up and Get Creative

The Herbert, Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP. Sat 28 Jan, 12noon-4pm A perfect antidote to the January blues, providing plenty of making activities and opportunities to explore the Herbert. Content suitable for ages 4+ but all welcome. Free â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just drop in. At busy times you may be asked to wait. www.theherbert.org

Art Cart Family Fun

Pinhole Photography Workshop

Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Royal Pump Rooms, The Parade, Leamington Spa, CV32 4AA. Sat 28 Jan, 11am-4pm Be inspired by James Edward Dugginsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; photographs. Join artist Shaim Wilcox and learn how to create your own

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sat 28 Jan, 1-2.30pm Get playful with blocks of colour and shapes. Suitable for ages 6+. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the Workshop space. ÂŁ3.50 per child

Starts Mon 16 Jan Transform your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behaviour with a 4-week online course, including phone and email support and a downloadable manual. Cost is ÂŁ97. Sign up on the website. Call 07929 047110 or email childbehaviour@hotmail.co.uk www.childbehaviourdirect.com

Early Years Creative Movement Classes

The Herbert, Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP. Tues 17 Jan, 10.30-11.15am &

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

photographs using pinhole boxes, photographic paper and light. Recommended for ages 13-19 years. ÂŁ8 per person. Non-refundable payment required to confirm booking. Places are limited, please call 01926 742700. www.warwickdc.gov.uk/ wdc/royalpumprooms

Tell Tale Hearts: From Hereâ&#x20AC;Ś to There

Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Royal Pump Rooms, The Parade, Leamington Spa, CV32 4AA. Sat 28 Jan, 1-3pm (final entry 2.45pm) Join us for family art and craft sessions in the galleries using our mobile Art Cart. Create your very own artwork to take home. Free, drop in and join in. Recommended for children up to 12 years. www.warwickdc.gov.uk/wdc/ royalpumprooms

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sun 29 Jan, 3pm & 4.30pm A show thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about bridges! Bridges that get built and knocked down, bridges you can climb over and crawl under. Magic bridges, bridges that tell stories of hungry trolls and greedy goats. Bridges where people can meet and if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re lucky, make a friend! Using rhythm and vocal play, shoe boxes, card and the world of the imagination, two independent individuals discover ways to play together and reach each other. Suitable for ages 18m-4 yrs. In the Studio. 50 mins (performance of 35mins followed by play session for 15 mins). ÂŁ9.25 (ÂŁ6.25) www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

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Mead Gallery Family Art Workshops: Optical Illusions

Online Child Behaviour Course

Tel: 01789 764667

(accompanying adult free). Tickets available in advance or on the day from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. For further details phone the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon -9pm, Mon-Sat) www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

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What’s On regular groups Oily Cart presents Ring A Ding Ding

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Tues 31 Jan – Fri 3 Feb, 10.30am and 1.30pm; Sat 4 Feb, 11.30am and 2pm Oily Cart are back following their sellout success with Mole in the Hole with a brand new immersive, interactive and multi-sensory show, for children aged 3-6 and their families. Join us on an epic, though tiny, table-top voyage of discovery, where your fingers and noses will never be far from the action. In the Studio, 55mins. £9.25 (£6.25) www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Kids Run Free Event

Newbold Comyn, Leamington Spa – just past the leisure centre, near the club house. Sat Feb 4 Free, organised running events for children aged 0-16. www.kidsrunfree.co.uk

Mead Gallery Family Art Workshops: Canvas Collage

We don’t have room for every regular class, so see the What’s On section of www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk for more

Regular Classes

These listings are compiled by www.nearlynewforbaby.co.uk – the Coventry & Warwickshire-based website where you can sell and buy nearly new baby clothes, equipment and toys – with some initial reference to Toddle About. As with all our listings, please check before you go.

Kenilworth

from 2-5yrs. No need to book – just drop in. Call 01926 856397 for details.

Mondays:

Thursdays:

The Spring Playgroup Toddler Group (term time only) at Kenilworth Youth Centre, Abbey End CV8 1QJ. 9.30-11.45am. £1.50 per family. Call Jackie 01926 864443. Tuesdays: Cradle Club at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. 10-11.30am, for nonmobile babies and expectant parents. £1 per family, just drop-in. Call 01926 856397. Mini Messy Play at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. 10-11.30am. From 8-20m, £1 per family, just drop in. Call 01926 856397 for details. Water Babies at Thorns Primary School, Blackthorn Rd CV8 2DS. 10am-1pm, call Tamsin on 01295 709221 for details. Wednesdays:

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sat 4 Feb 1pm-2.30pm Slice up paintings to create new surprising works of art. Suitable for ages 6+. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the Workshop space. Tickets available in advance or on the day from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. For further details phone the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon-9pm, Mon-Sat). www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Online Child Behaviour Course

Twins and More & Childminders Group at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. Both 10.30-11.30am. Fortnightly, £1 donation. Please call 01926 856397 to check dates then just drop in. Expectant parents welcome.

Early Years Creative Movement Classes

The Herbert, Jordan Well, Coventry, CV1 5QP. Tues 14 Feb, 10.30am-11.15am & 11.30am-12.15pm A playful movement class for children aged 2-5 years and their carers, encouraging children’s individuality and creativity to develop. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Free, but booking is essential as spaces are limited. Please call reception on 024 7629 4774 to secure your place. www.theherbert.org

Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Tues 14 Feb, 11am, 1.30pm & 4pm; Wed 15 Feb, 11am & 1.30pm “I have this little sister, Lola. She is small and very funny...” Everyone’s favourite brother and sister from the hit BBC TV series and books by Lauren Child are brought to life, using a mix of puppets, live action and music. Suitable for ages 3+. In the Theatre. £11.75 (£9.75). 1hr 10mins (including interval). www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Baby Music at Kenilworth Children’s Centre, Bertie Road. 12noon. Drop in. Suitable from birth. Call 01926 853394 for further details. Stay & Play at Kenilworth Children’s Centre, Bertie Rd CV8 1JP. 9-10.15am, 10.1511.30am and 1.45-3pm. From birth to 3. Just drop in. £2 per family. NCT Breastfeeding Support Drop-in at Kenilworth Children’s Centre, Bertie Rd CV8 1JP. 10.30-11.30am fortnightly. Free. Call 01926 853394 for further details.

NCT Breastfeeding Drop-in at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. 10.30-11.30am. Fortnightly. Free. Expectant mums very welcome. Childminders’ Stay and Play at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. 1011.30am. Just drop in. Call 01926 856397. Baby & Child Health Drop-in at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. From 10-11.30am. Fortnightly, call 01926 856397 for details. Free, no need to book. Expectant parents welcome.

Mead Gallery Family Art Workshops: A Moment in Colour

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sat 18 Feb, 1pm-2.30pm Paint big, bold and bright pictures! Suitable for ages 6+. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the Workshop space, £3.50 per child (accompanying adult free). Tickets available in advance or on the day from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. For further details phone the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon-9pm, Mon-Sat). www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Monkey Music at Kenilworth Youth Centre, Abbey End CV8 1QJ. Morning sessions. Call Claire on 01789 415526. Get Together & Play at different locations in Kenilworth each week. 11am-2pm. Free fun activities organised by parents. Call 01926 853394 for details.

Fridays: Stay & Play at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. 10-11.30am for 0-5 years, just drop in. £1 per family. Call 01926 856397 for further details. Cradle Club at Kenilworth Children’s Centre, Bertie Road CV8 1JP. 10-11.30am. Drop in, no booking required, £2 per family. Call 01926 853394. Movers & Crawlers at Kenilworth Children’s Centre, Bertie Rd CV8 1JP1. 1.30-2.45pm. For newly mobile babies. Drop in, no booking required, £2 per family. Call 01926 853394 for details. Kenilworth Rhyme Time at Kenilworth Library, Smalley Place CV8 1QG.10-10.30am on 2nd & 4th weeks of month. Free music sessions for 0-2 years – just call in. Call 01926 748900 for details. Baby Massage at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS.2-3pm. Call 01926 856397 for further details. Saturdays: Dad’s Group at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. 10-11.30am. For dads/carers and their child(ren) aged 0-5 years. £1 per family. Call 01926 856397 for more details. Expectant dads welcome.

Leamington Spa Mondays

Baby & Child Health Drop-in Clinic at Kenilworth Children’s Centre, Bertie Road CV8 1JP. 10-11.30am, fortnightly. Call 01926 853394 for dates. Free, no need to book. From birth to 5 years. Let’s Get Physical at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS.1.30-3pm,

St John’s Toddler Group at St John’s Church Hall, Warwick Rd CV8 1HY. 10-11.30am. 50p donation. Call Kate on 01926 779159.

Stay and Play at Lapworth at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. 1.45-3.15pm. Fortnightly, no need to book. Call 01926 856397 for details

Little Crackers Toddler Group (term time only) at Crackley Hall School, Coventry Rd CV8 2FT. 10-11.30am for 0-5 years. £2 per family. Call 01926 514444 to check dates.

Starts Mon Feb 6 Transform your child’s behaviour with a 4-week online course, including phone and email support and a downloadable manual. Cost is £97. Sign up on the website. Call 07929 047110 or email childbehaviour@hotmail.co.uk www.childbehaviourdirect.com

Buggy Breakfast at St John’s Children’s Centre, Mortimer Rd CV8 1FS. From 9-10am. From birth to 5 years. No need to book. £1 per family. Call 01926 856397.

& 11am. Call 01789 415591. Tuesdays: Children’s Yoga at Stonemonkey Yoga Studio & Cafe, 22 Binswood Street CV32 5RN. 1.30-5pm. Call Jane on 01675 464246 or 07811 480261. Leamington Spa & District Twins Club Baby & Toddler Group at Leek Wootton Village Hall, Warwick Road, Leek Wootton on Tuesday mornings. See www.leamingtontwinsclub.co.uk Whitnash Rhyme Time at Whitnash Library, Franklin Rd CV31 2JH. 11.15-11.45am, fourth week of the month. Free, for 0-2 years. Call Sarah on 01926 429468. Pregnancy Yoga at Bath Place Community Centre. 7-8.30pm. No experience required. Booking essential, call Helen 07972 875612 or email helenpageyoga@gmail.com Wednesdays: Arty Tots at Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Royal Pump Rooms, Parade. 11am-12noon, first Wed of the month. For 0-5 years. Free. Call 01926 742700. Tiny Stars at Leamington Baptist Church, Chandos St CV32 4RN. 1-3pm for 0-2 years and 9 months. Call 01926 336650. Dandy Development (term time only) at Offchurch Hall Playgroup, School Hill Offchurch CV33 9AL. Up to 4 years, from 9.30am. Call Nikki on 07890 241301. Thursdays: Whitnash Stay & Play at Whitnash Children’s Centre, Nursery Lane CV31 2PW. Afternoons. Free. Call 01926 315586. Sing & Sign (term time only) at The Dormer Conference Centre, 3A Dormer Place CV32 5AA. 9.45 & 11am. Suitable from 6m-24m. Call 01789 415591. Monkey Music (term time only) at Dale St Church Centre, Dale St CV32 5HL. Afternoon sessions, suitable from 3m-3 yrs. Call Claire on 01789 415526. Lillingtots Toddler Group (term time only) at Lillington Free Church Hall, Cubbington Road. 9.30-11.30am. Fridays: Pregnancy Yoga at Stonemonkey, 22 Binswood Street CV32 5RN. 7-8.30pm. Call Helen to book on 07972 875612 or email helenpageyoga@gmail.com

Monkey Music (term time only) at United Ref Church, Cubbington Rd CV32 7AL. Morning sessions. Call Claire 01789 415526. Trial classes available.

Leamington Spa Rhyme Time at Leamington Spa Library, Royal Pump Rooms, The Parade CV32 4AA. 10.30-11am first and third week of the month. Free – just drop in. Call 01926 742721.

Sing & Sign (term time only) at Busy Bees Nursery, Macbeth Approach, Gallagher Business Park CV34 6AD. Classes at 9.45am

Dandy Development at St Paul’s Church, Leicester Street CV32 4TE. 10-10.40am and

Art Cart Family Fun

Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Royal Pump Rooms, The Parade, Leamington Spa, CV32 4AA. Sat 25 Feb, 1-3pm (final entry 2.45pm) Join us for family art and craft sessions in the galleries using our mobile Art Cart. Create your very own artwork to take home. The Art Cart is also available during normal opening hours. Explore its drawers and pockets to discover lots of activities inspired by the displays. Free, drop in and join in. Recommended for children up to 12 years. www.warwickdc.gov.uk/wdc/ royalpumprooms

Online Child Behaviour Course Starts Mon 27 Feb Transform your child’s behaviour with a 4-week online course, including phone and email support and a downloadable manual. Call 07929 047110 or email childbehaviour@hotmail.co.uk www.childbehaviourdirect.com

Baby Resuscitation

Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. Tues 28 Feb Booking required. Call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01789 764667

What’s On regular groups 11-11.50am. Call Nikki 07890 241301 for more details. £4.50/£5.00. Sing & Sign (Term time only) at Busy Bees Nursery, Macbeth Approach, Gallagher Business Park CV34 6AD. 9.45 & 11am. Suitable for 6m-24m. Call 01789 415591. Saturdays: Art Cart Family Fun Sessions at Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum, Royal Pump Rooms, The Parade. 1-3pm, last Saturday of the month. Free drop-in. Call 01926 742700.

Stratford-upon-Avon Mondays: Sing & Sign (term time only) at The Malt House, The Rookery, Alveston CV37 7QP. Classes at 9.45 and 11am. Call 01789 415591. Tumble Tots at Shottery Memorial Hall CV37 9BL. Call Georgina for more details on 01926 337800. Snitterfield Rag Tag Toddler Group at Snitterfield Village Hall, Bearley Rd CV37 0HJ. 11-11.45am. Call Hilary on 01789 731246. Early Pregnancy Antenatal Classes at Rother House Medical Centre, Alcester Rd CV37 6PP. 6-8pm. Monthly. Call Helen on 01926 731621. See www.birthandbabyreality.co.uk Henley-in-Arden Baby Group at St John’s Church Hall, Beaudesert Lane B95. 10am-12noon, for ages 0-18 months. Monkey Music (term time only) at Stratford Leisure Centre Bridgefoot CV37 6YY. Morning sessions available. Call Claire on 01789 415526 for details. Meet & Play at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 9.30-11am, for under 5s. Call 01789 266 624. No need to book. Young Parents at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 1.30-3pm, for parents under 24 years old. Call 01789 266 624 for details. No need to book. Antenatal Group at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Avenue CV37 9PB. 6.308.30pm. Call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk to book. Tuesdays: Coffee Morning for Parents of Children with SEN at Stratford’s Children Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. Second Tuesday of the month, 9.30-11am. Just drop in. Call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@ parentingproject.org.uk. Weaning Workshop at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. Third Tuesday of the month, 10-11am. Call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk to book. Postnatal Clinic at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 1-3.30pm. Call 01789 266 624 for an appointment. Twins Club at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 1.30-3.30pm. First Tuesday of the month. Call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk for

Mead Gallery Family Art Workshops: Faces, Faces, Faces Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sat 3 Mar, 1pm-2.30pm Use splodges, spirals, squares and circles to capture yourself or another person in paint. Suitable for ages 6+. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the Workshop space. £3.50 per child (accompanying adult free). Tickets available from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. For further details phone the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon-9pm, Mon-Sat). www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Tel: 01789 764667

details. No need to book. Babes & Tots Healthcare at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 1.30-3.30pm on 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month. Call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk Stratford Rhyme Time at Stratfordupon-Avon Library CV37 6PZ. 11-11.30am fortnightly, for 0-2 years. Call 01789 292209. Free – just turn up. Little Acorns Meet & Play at Methodist Hall, Old Town CV37 6BG. 10-11.30am. Call 01789 293098 if you’re planning to visit to check details are still correct. Make a Mess, Chipping Camden (term time only). Call 07977 196047 for details. Sing & Sign (term time only) at Our Lady of Peace Church, Church Lane, Shottery CV37 9HQ. Classes at 9.45 and 11am. Call 01789 415591 for further information. Dandy Development (term time only) at Barford Memorial Hall, Church Street, Barford, CV35 8EN. Starting on Tues 17 Jan. 11-11.50am. Call Nikki: 07890 241 301. Wednesdays: Early Days at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 9.30-11am. Session for new mums, starts 1 Feb. Call 01789 266 624 or stratford@parentingproject.org.uk Chatter Matters for Babies at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Avenue CV37 9PB. To book, call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk Stratford Story Stomp at Stratford-uponAvon Library, 12 Henley Street CV37 6PZ. 11-11.30am (4th week of the month). Free, for 2-4 year olds. Call 01789 292209. Wellesbourne Story Stomp at Wellesbourne Library, Kineton Rd CV35 9NF. 10-10.30am (2nd & 4th weeks of the month). Free.

Methodist Church, Priory Road, Alcester B49 5DX. Morning sessions, for 3 m-3 yrs. Call Claire on 01789 415526. Coffee & Play at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 9.30-11am. For under 18 months. No need to book. Tel 01789 266 624 or stratford@parentingproject.org.uk Chatter Matter Toddlers at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 11.30am-12.30pm. To book, call 01789 266 624 or stratford@parentingproject.org.uk Talk & Play at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 11.30am-12.30pm. For 2-3 year olds. To book, call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk Speech & Language at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave. 1-2.30pm, first Friday of the month. For details, call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@parentingproject.org.uk

Warwick Mondays: Creative Stay & Play at Warwick Children’s Centre, Coventry Rd. 9.30am-11am. Just call in. From 6m-5 yrs. Also do a “wellie walk” at 10am in the park. (As per current timetable, until January 31) Little Fishes Baby & Toddler Group (term time only) at St Paul’s Church, Friar Street. For 0-4 years old, £1 per family. Call Liz on 01926 496779 for details. Tiddlers Mother & Baby Group (term time only) at Castle Hill Baptist Church CV34 4EX. 10am-12 noon. Bump-1yr, 50p. Call Liz on 01926 400368 for details. Monkey Music (term time only) at St Mary Immaculate Hall, West Street CV34 6AB. Classes at 1.40, 2.20 and 3pm, call Claire on 01789 415526 for details.

Thursdays:

Little Saints at All Saints Church, Vicarage Green CV34 5NJ. 9.30-11am. Free/donations. Call 01926 492073 for details.

Polish Antenatal Clinic at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 9.30am-2pm every other week. Call 01789 266 624 to book.

Sing & Sign (term time only) at St Mary Immaculate Parish Hall, West St CV34 6AB. 9.45 and 11am. Call 01789 415591.

Baby Massage at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 9.30-10.30am. To book, call 01789 266 624 or email stratford@ parentingproject.org.uk

Tuesdays:

Breastfeeding Cafe & Support at Stratford Children’s Centre, Drayton Ave CV37 9PB. 11am-12.30pm. No need to book. Call 01789 266 624 for more details. Monkey Music (term time only) at Alveston Malt House, Alveston CV37 7QX. Call Claire on 01789 415526. Make a Mess at Stratford Armouries (term time only). Call 07977 196047. Fridays: Wellesbourne Story Stomp at Wellesbourne Library, Kineton Rd CV35 9NF. 10-10.30am (1st & 3rd weeks of the month). Free story sessions for 2-4 yr olds. Monkey Music (term time only) at Alcester

M6 Theatre Company: One Little Word

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sun 4 Mar, 3pm & 4.30pm A beautiful and gentle story of friendship, power struggles and the rich world of creative play. Two characters play together – exploring a new space, new objects, dressing up and taking turns – but struggles arise when one of them wants to be the only Captain of the ship! Suitable for ages 3+. In the Studio, 45mins. £9.25 (£6.25) www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Leamington Spa & District Twins Club Baby & Toddler Group at Leek Wootton Village Hall, Warwick Road, Leek Wootton. See www.leamingtontwinsclub.co.uk Tiddlers Mother & Baby Group (Term time only) at Castle Hill Baptist Church CV34 4EX. 10am-12 noon. Bump-1yr, 50p. Call Liz on 01926 400368 Emscote Toddler Group at All Saints Church, All Saints Rd, CV34 5NJ. 9.30am-11am. 0-4 years, £1 + 50p per sibling. Call Kate on 01926 403503 for more details. Tiny Talkers Stay & Play at Warwick Children’s Centre, Coventry Rd CV34 4LJ. 9.30am-11.30am. 6m-5yrs. Just drop in. (As per current timetable, until Tues 31 Jan) Tiny Treasures at Warwick Children’s Centre, Coventry Rd CV34 4LJ. 12.45-2.30pm. Birth-18 months. (As per current timetable,

SATS Workshop

Explore Learning, Sainsbury’s, The Shires Retail Park, Leamington Spa, CV346RH. Mon 5 Mar, 4pm-5pm Free workshop to prepare Yr 5 and Yr 6 students for Yr 6 SATS, including exam technique and tips. Call 01926 422800 to book.

NCT Nearly New Sale

Myton School, Myton Road, Warwick Sat 10 Mar, 12-2pm Get great bargains, or sell your unwanted baby items. £1 entry. Sorry, no buggies or prams allowed into the hall. To sell: call 07005 801556, line opens 6 weeks before each sale.

until Tues 31 Jan) Warwick Story Stomp at Warwick Library, Barrack St CV34 4TH. 11.30am-12noon (fortnightly) Free. Call 01926 412189. Wednesdays: Jack & Jill Toddler Group at Baptist Church, Gerrard Street CV34 4HD, from 10-11.30am. Ages 0-4 years. £1 per family. Stay & Play Drop In at The Gap Community Centre, Oakwood Grove, Spinney Hill, CV34 5TD. 9.30-11am. For 0-5 years. Free. Call 01926 492701 for details. Babies at The Gap Community Centre, Oakwood Grove, Spinney Hill, CV34 5TD. 1-2.30pm for babies up to 18 months, Free. Just drop in. Call 01926 494200. Health Visitor Clinic at Warwick Children’s Centre, Coventry Rd CV34 4LJ. 10-11.30am. 2nd and 4th Wed each month, just drop in. Aqua Babies (term time only) at St Nicholas Park Leisure Centre. 11.30-12noon (4m-2yrs) & 12-12.30pm (2-4yrs). No need to book. Call 01926 495353. Thursdays: Dandy Development at Girls Marching Band Headquarters, Hampton Rd CV34 6JP. Stage 1: 10-10.40am, Stage 2: 11-11.50am. Call Nikki on 07890 241 301. Rhyme Time at Warwick Library, Barrack St CV34 4TH.10.30-11am twice monthly, Call 01926 412 189. Free, just drop in. Baby Clinic at The Gap Community Centre, Oakwood Grove, Spinney Hill, CV34 5TD. 10am-12noon, 3rd Thurs of the month. Call 01926 494200 for details. Fridays: Make a Mess at the Girls Marching Band HQ, Hampton Road. First 5-week course starts Fri 13 Jan at 10.15am, 11.30am and 1.15pm. Email Alix at hello@make-a-mess.co.uk Sing & Sign (term time only) at St Mary Immaculate Parish Hall, West St CV34 6AB. Classes at 9.45am and 11am. From around 6m-24m. Call 01789 415591 for details. Toy Library at Warwick Children’s Centre, Coventry Rd CV34 4LJ. 10am-2pm. £3 annual membership. Call 01926 492701. Aqua Babies (term time only) at St Nicholas Park Leisure Centre. 11.30am-12noon & 12noon-12.30pm. Call 01926 495353. Parents & Babies Swim (term time only) at St Nicholas Park Leisure Centre CV34. 11.30am-12.30pm. Call 01926 495353. Saturdays: Dad’s Aloud at Warwick Children’s Centre, Coventry Rd CV34 4LJ. 10am-12noon. Fun for dads/carers and their child(ren) aged 0-4. Fortnightly – call 01926 492701 for dates. Action Dads at The Gap Community Centre, Oakwood Grove, Spinney Hill, CV34 5TD. 10am-12noon. Fortnightly – alternates with Dad’s Aloud. For dads/carers and child/ren from 5-8 years. Call 01926 494200 for dates.

Mead Gallery Family Art Workshops: Outdoor 3D Collage

Warwick Arts Centre, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL. Sat 10 Mar, 1pm-2.30pm Take inspiration from sculptures on campus to create 3D collages. Suitable for ages 6+. Children must be accompanied by an adult. In the Workshop space. £3.50 per child (accompanying adult free). Tickets available from Box Office on 024 7652 4524. For more details call the Mead Gallery assistants on 024 7652 2589 (12noon-9pm, Mon-Sat). www.warwickartscentre.co.uk

Luca & Maya make...

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