Families Gloucestershire July/August 2017 issue 39

Issue 39 July /August 2017 FREE

Gloucestershire

FOR SALE ESTABLISHED

PARENTING MAGAZINE

FRANCHISE

FIND OUT MORE ON PAGE 2

Summer Holiday Activities . Education . What’s On Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in Gloucestershire

Editor’s Letter Dear readers Make sure you seize the summer! Six long weeks of school holidays beckon and you will doubtless be looking for days out, things to do, clubs and classes, and all manner of activities and diversions in order to keep your little darlings happy and busy. There’s lots going on in and around our region during the holiday – be sure to check out our What’s On section. Of course, not everything costs money and some of the greatest summertime fun - from hiking to home cinema and from picnics to painting - can be had for free, as we find out on page 10. Which brings me to my favourite activity idea for the holidays: making frozen yoghurt covered strawberries – dip inside to find out how... Yum! We will return in September with our Back To School issue. Enjoy!

Accolade For Museum in the Park Art Gallery The Museum in the Park's Art Gallery was recently voted ‘Runner Up' in the Gloucestershire Muddy Stilettos Awards 2017. The award for ‘Best Art Gallery in Gloucestershire' went to New Brewery Arts in Cirencester but staff at the Stroud venue were delighted with the compliment of ‘second place' and the support shown by members of the public.

The ethos of Muddy Stilettos is all about celebrating and supporting the most unique, interesting, brilliant local businesses in a fun way. For details of the 2017 results see: https://glos.muddystilettos.co.uk/awards/

Diane Clifford. Editor 01684 770566 editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Could you be the next editor of

Families Gloucestershire ?

Would you like the flexibility of working from home and never miss a school performance or sports day again?

Are you interested in running your own business and would find the support offered by a franchise helpful?

Are you self-motivated and well organised?

You now have the opportunity to buy Families Gloucestershire Franchise – a business which is up and running, including established client base, readership and drop points.

No previous experience needed, training is available and you will have the support of the fantastic team at Families Magazine Ltd.

To find out more about running your own business around your family call 01684 770566 or email editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk Circulation: 19,000 copies of Families Gloucestershire are available through nurseries, pre-schools, schools, libraries, soft play centres, selected shops and other distribution points throughout the county. If you would like free copies for your organisation or if you would like to subscribe so you don’t miss an issue please contact us. Families Gloucestershire is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Gloucestershire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.’ Print: The Manson Group, Reynolds House, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans. AL3 6PZ. Tel: 01727 848 440.

2

Families Gloucestershire

Rhino’s Take Centre Stage At Cotswold Wildlife Park Rhino Month: August 1- 31 August. The keepers at Cotswold Wildlife Park will be doing a daily talk throughout August at 2:00pm near the Rhino Paddock about these magnificent animals, the threats to them in the wild and the conservation work that is going on to try and protect the species for future generations.

Plans for the month include a fund raising activity-filled Rhino Weekend on Saturday 19 August and Sunday 20 August 2017. The aim is to raise funds for Rhino Conservation work in Africa through fun activities and competitions across both days. The Park supports Tusk Trust and has done for many years, and hopes to generate more interest, awareness and support through this fund raising event. For more details see: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Sad times with Social Media Study finds kids who spend more time on social media are less happy overall. Researchers from the University of Sheffield have found that children who spend more time on social media feel less happy in most aspects of their lives. The study found that spending just one hour a day on social networks reduces the chances of a child being completely happy with their life by around 14%. That was three times higher than the estimated adverse effect of coming from a single-parent household and greater than the negative impact of playing truant.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July - August 2017

News & Views 11+ Specialists in Gloucestershire Start today for

R

£79* one-off payment

1 Month Intensive Course

Target your child’s weak areas before the 11+ entrance exam!

Personalised Daily Online Tests

Little Monsters Set To Play More With National Award Gloucester nursery, Little Monsters in Hardwicke, is not only in the running for a national award but is the most nominated nursery in the South West.

The award is the Sudocrem Play More Award, which awards deserving nurseries with Playground Regeneration Grants to help their students get outside and grow. This year 15 prizes are available for nurseries and childcare centres.

Grateful parents nominated Little Monsters, describing it as, “a fantastic nursery run by amazing staff.” One mum added, “It’s not the biggest nursery, but it is the best."

Dogs Could Help Improve Reading Skills Many studies have shown that improving a child’s reading skills will tend to lead to a greater overall academic success and better life chances. There have been numerous schemes and initiatives aimed at boosting both interest in and aptitudes for reading but one of the most novel involves bringing four-legged helpers into the classroom.

The practice originated in the US in 1999 with the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (READ) scheme. It was slower to catch on in the UK but has gained traction recently, with the Kennel Club’s Bark and Read Foundation being at the forefront.

According to the Kennel Club, reading to dogs has been proven to help children develop literacy skills and build confidence, through “both the calming effect the dogs' presence has on children and the fact that the dog will listen to the children read without being judgemental or critical”. Actress Zoe Wanamaker CBE, a supporter of the scheme, said: “That is why the Kennel Club's Bark & Read project is such an inspiring idea, as we all know that dogs are great listeners and won't judge if we stumble over a word.”

July - August 2017

Maths, English, Verbal and NVR Timed Tests

Tackle weak areas with KSOL TargetTeach Technology R

Experienced 11+ Tutor Support Multiple Award-Winning Tuition

Tutor Support

Enrol now and receive a FREE BONUS WEEK! Call 0121 733 6558 Visit www.ksol.co.uk

Books

Online

Exams

Centres

*All courses subject to a £15 course set-up fee

Get Motivated For The 11plus With KSOL These final weeks are crucial in the build up to the 11plus exam so it is vital for your child to stay engaged over the summer holidays. With over 10 years of experience preparing children for the 11plus, KSOL can help them through this final stage.

Lead KSOL tutor, Julia, offers some useful advice: “Little and often is key. Get your child to constantly review their notes or use revision cards to keep everything at the forefront of their minds. Remember to take a measured approach: you do not want to overload them!

“Make sure these activities are interactive and engaging. Our one month intensive online course uses a unique TargetTeach® solution to provide children with challenging daily tests which are designed to focus and improve areas of weakness. All progress is regularly monitored by our team of dedicated tutors.”

Online intensive revision courses start from £79 (+course set-up fee).

Visit www.ksol.co.uk for special offers or call 0121 733 6558 today! Quote Families Gloucestershire!

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

3

Education

Making The Move To Big School - How Much To Help And How Much To Let Go Parental anxiety is normal at the time your child moves from primary to secondary school. During the primary school years, it is fairly easy to support your child at school. You will probably know their teacher and parents, as well as being familiar with school policies and routines.

Losing the control this familiarity offers is as daunting for parents as it is for children.

You may also worry specifically about your child’s ability to cope with the new environment and, crucially, whether he or she will make friends.

Attending secondary school IS a big leap up for a child – the children are older and bigger and it is challenging for children to get used to moving from classroom to classroom for different specialist lessons in a building which is usually much larger than primary school. They will be treated by teachers as much more independent individuals, expected to remember more complex school routines, with less assistance managing them.

Never fear though – your child may be much more ready for this than you expect and your anxieties may be eased by adopting strategies that help with the transition. Here are some tips to help you prepare for and manage the early months:

Support the development of friendships. Mixing socially and establishing secure friendships is of great importance to older children. It is appropriate for this age group to have access to a mobile phone and computer to communicate with friends but the dangers of social networking should be discussed and boundaries agreed.

Support organisation and routines. Create “To Do” lists or “Timetables” for the fridge, agree places to keep bags, kit, and Before the transition: books. Label uniform and valuables. Establish routines so they can get to school punctually. Don’t expect too much too soon, Shield your child from your anxiety. They can make this transition. Critically, they need to know that you believe in them many won’t crack this for years! and in their ability to deal with difficulties and challenges.

Understand what homework they have and know when it has been completed and handed in. Agree a routine that will help If your child will walk to school or travel independently on your child to complete and hand in all homework on time, public transport, practice the new journey. Start by travelling without devoting too much time to one piece and little or together. Then move to simply following behind your child. nothing to others. However, remember it is their homework Finally, let him do it alone and meet him there. Travel at busy not yours; help, encourage, motivate but accept their best. times. Allow your child to make mistakes and find solutions.

After the transition: Be there. Make sure a parent or trusted carer is available before and after school, to provide food, notice if your child comes in late, listen to their successes and concerns and be aware of subtle changes in mood; be someone to empathise and to discuss problems with. Help out if asked but do not take over.

4

Families Gloucestershire

Schedule time to relax. Your child will be exhausted by the effort of holding it all together. Tears are likely over the most trivial things and they may regress and demand more care. Trust that they can cope and make sure there is time for sleep, friends, homework, more sleep, watching TV, playing computer games and yet more sleep!

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July - August 2017

Education

Make Sure You Seize The Summer

Read, read and read some more A study by Oxford University Press showed that just 10 minutes of shared reading a day can have a huge impact on children’s progress. Pop a book in your bag so you can use any opportunity to get your daily 10 minutes in. We will be Start a blog uploading weekly activities that you can complete with your child to help keep them engaged with what they are reading.

Learn some new skills, as a family, by creating a blog. Give your Visit explorelearning.co.uk/summer to find out more and child a little note book to jots ideas down whilst you are out and about, then write up what you’ve done. Take lots of pictures download your first activity! as these are a great tool to help children who find writing Play some games tricky. Encourage them to describe what is happening in the There are bound to be some rainy days this summer, so use this picture to get their creativity flowing. as a chance to get out some board games. These are great for so many reasons, from developing language to improving Have a movie night memory skills. Need some new games? Have a scavenger hunt Research carried out by Explore Learning highlighted watching in local charity shops to see who can find the best game.

TV/films is the number one thing children wanted to do over the summer. Use this to motivate your child to read. Find a Tuition book that has been made into a film that your child wants to To keep your children progressing over the summer, a tuition watch. Then plan a movie night far enough in advance so you centre is a great option. Prevent the battle ground of getting can read the book together before enjoying the film. children to do work at home and get them along to a centre Send a postcard where there are lots of other children getting involved. Explore Learning runs maths and english sessions as well as a whole Let your friends and family know what you have been up to range of interactive workshops throughout the holidays. The with a postcard. They are a wonderful way to get a bit of best thing is you can go along and try one of these for free, so writing going during the holidays. If your child is reluctant to get in touch today! See: www.explorelearning.co.uk/tuition-centre/ write, then try a postcard app like By Post? They can take their redditch/ or call 01527 910 222. own pictures to make into postcards and type their message.

At Explore Learning we are encouraging families to seize the summer! To help you do this we have put together a jam-packed summer programme with creative ideas on how to keep your child’s brain active over the holidays.

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

July - August 2017

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

5

Education Animal Agents: The Summer Reading Challenge 2017 The annual Summer Reading Challenge to children is simple.

During the holidays they are encouraged to read six or more books of their choice - fact books, joke books, picture books or audio books - just as long as they are borrowed from the library. There are collectable incentives and rewards, plus a certificate for every child who completes the Challenge, which is run by independent charity The Reading Agency.

Children can sign up at their local library from the end of June onwards and all materials are absolutely free.

This year's theme is Animal Agents, introducing young readers to a variety of clever creatures, specially trained to use their skills and natural instincts to unravel mysteries.

Animal Agents is illustrated by Tony Ross, illustrator of the hugely popular Horrid Henry series. He is published all over the world; his awards and nominations include the Roald Dahl Funny Prize, Kate Greenaway Medal, and the Smarties Prize.

The Challenge is open to all primary school children and is designed for all reading abilities. Schools work with local libraries and give out information to encourage children to take part, and most libraries run Summer Reading Challenge linked early years activity for pre-schoolers. Why not head to your local library during the summer holidays and enrol. It is completely free and any child can take part. For more informatiom go to www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.

Ed’s Reading Room

Hi book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Summer book selection for you to enjoy. Have fun reading! www.EdontheWeb.com

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

King of the Sky by Nicola Davies

(Walker £12.99) ED SAYS: “A small boy feels lost in his new home. No-one speaks his language and he is surrounded by grey weather and grey chimneys. Soon he is befriended by an old man who keeps pigeons and who smiles when he sees his birds soaring up to the sky. He offers one to his young neighbour who names him Re del Cielo – King of the Sky. When King of the Sky is sent to Rome by train, will he be able to find his way back? Or will he want to stay with the bright sunshine and the lovely smell of ice cream? Where does he really belong?”

Harper and the Night Forest by Cerrie Burnell (Scholastic £5.99) ED SAYS: “Harper and her friends hear that there is an ice raven living in the Night Forest. This mysterious bird sings a magical song that can soften even the hardest of hearts. The Wild Conductor tries to enlist their help as he plans to capture the ice raven and create the greatest orchestra ever. But soon Harper wonders what might happen if the ice raven left the enchanted forest. Who should the young friends help? Should such a free spirit ever be captured?”

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

The Accidental Secret Agent by Tom McLaughlin (Oxford £6.99) ED

SAYS: “Kevin’s daydreaming is legendary – currently about being a secret agent. His daydreaming causes him problems at school but when he is recruited for MI7 his problems could turn into real danger. He has to find information about one of the greatest criminal masterminds. Can Kevin really deal with the world’s toughest agents and meanest villains? But remember it’s all top secret so you’ll have to read the story to find out what happens.”

The Lights Under the Lake by Sophie Cleverly (HarperCollins £6.99)

Gloucestershire Libraries are now an Arts Award Supporter; young people who take part in arts activities in the libraries such as the Summer Reading Challenge can obtain the Arts Award Discover. Arts Award Discover is the introductory award open to children and young people aged up to 25. To achieve Discover, children and young people discover the arts around them, find out about artists and their work and share their experiences with others, gaining a certificate at the end. www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/libraries www.artsaward.org.uk/ 6

Families Gloucestershire

ED SAYS: “The twins Scarlet and Ivy are very excited when they hear about the school trip staying on the shores of a lake. It sounds idyllic but dark secrets lurk both in the old hotel and in the deep waters of the lake.

Very soon mysterious things start to happen and the holiday takes a turn for the worse.

Perhaps the ringing of church bells late at night and lights under the lake indicate that those buried in the flooded graveyard no longer lie peacefully.”

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI awardwinning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You can contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

See Maggie’s latest ebooks at www.WalkWalk.co.uk.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July - August 2017

Your School Shoe Fitting Guide When it comes to buying school shoes the importance of making the right choice of footwear can not be overstressed. Poorly fitting shoes can cause problems, which your children could carry with them into later life.

Measuring your child’s feet Because your child’s feet will continue to grow in fits and starts, it’s important to have them measured by a trained, professional shoe fitter in a shoe shop every eight weeks or so. You can quickly check the fit of your child’s shoes each month yourself, in between professional fittings. There should be roughly a thumbnail’s length between the end of the shoe and your child’s toes.

Education

Obviously, if your little one complains that their feet hurt or become reluctant to wear their shoes, it’s a good idea to have their feet measured professionally again.

What to look for There are a number of important things that you should look for when choosing school shoes for your kids. A firm heel cup is very important. The heel supports the foot and needs to be held in a straight position. If the heel leans to one side or the other, pain and postural problems could arise. Try pressing gently on the sides of the heel - if it sinks in easily, the shoe is not providing sufficient support.

The shoe should have a strap, Velcro or laces to prevent the shoe from slipping forward and scrunching your child’s toes. IllWarning signs to look out for fitting shoes that crush the toes can lead to permanent problems like clawed or hammer toes. The shoe sole should be Children are not always good at telling their parents when they flexible at the ball of the foot only and it should have sufficient have problems with ill-fitting shoes, so you may need to be on cushioning so that the foot is supported comfortably when alert for problems. The following signs are usually indicative of poorly-fitting shoes: your little one runs or skips.

• Blisters and rubbing Shoe material should be breathable and water resistant. If your • Poor posture or a rolling gait when your child walks child’s feet sweat and can’t breathe, smelly feet and fungal • Reluctance to wear shoes at all infections can result.

• Refusing to wear socks (usually the shoes are too tight).

Book Now For September Places

Parents wishing to help their children prepare for Gloucestershire’s 11+ examination are advised to register early for group courses for Year 5 students beginning in September 2017.

Courses are held in Charlton Kings, Cheltenham. They are run by a published author of very popular 11 Plus books who has many years experience of preparing hundreds of children for the 11 Plus.

Buckinghamshire Gloucestershire CEM 11+ EXAM GROUP TUITION • Year 5 and Year 4 - small group courses Mock Exams (supported by 1 to 1 tuition) • Groups run by professional tutor and published author, Philip McMahon • Our own high quality resources for tuition and homework • Sunday available Saturdaycourses and Tuesday Courses • Proven results

Free trials are available any week. There is an option to switch course day if you are unable to attend a particular day. The courses have an excellent record supported by testimonials and teach over 100 children weekly. The courses include periodic progress tests, the opportunity to do mock exams and also provide guidance and feedback to parents.

CEM STYLE TEST PAPERS FOR BUCKS 11+ EXAM Order our new test papers in conjunction with Letts Letts, the expert in revision and 11+ Tutoring Academy, have teamed up to provide pupils with resources for CEM • Completely new and up to date content • CEM style in their format and question types • Designed for practice at home Order our new test papers at collins.co.uk/letts11plus PRIVATE TUTORING COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2015 - FINALIST

Please contact Philip email: 11plustutoringacademy@gmail.com or call 07734469495 July - August 2017

www.11plustutoringacademy.co.uk 01242 221271 Twitter @11plustutoring

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

7

Get Cooking

Fruity Family Treats Healthy Banana Granola Bars

Help them get their five a day with these fun snacks, ideal for the lunch box and picnics too!

These tasty bars are full of protein thanks to the hidden gems; quinoa and chia seeds.

Snowy Strawberries This one is super easy and great to get the kids helping in the kitchen. Ideal for summer snacks, they can be kept in the freezer and brought out after a hot day at school or holiday fun.

Fruity Summer Rolls

You will need: 1 punnet strawberries 1 large pot Greek yoghurt

You will need: Rice paper wrappers Mixture of summer fruit; watermelon, strawberries, apple, peach, mango, kiwi etc.

Mint leaves (optional) and Lime Juice

How to make: 1. Wash the strawberries and trim the stalks and leaves off each one.

2. Put some of the Greek yoghurt in a bowl and roll each strawberry in the yoghurt. Lay them on a flat baking tray.

3. When you have covered all the fruit with the yoghurt, place the tray in the freezer on an empty shelf and leave to freeze overnight.

4. You can then take them off the tray and store them in freezer bags until needed.

How to make: 1.Wash and peel the fruit if necessary, then cut into very small, cubes.

2. Drizzle fruit with lime juice to prevent browning and stir well.

3. Add a few small or torn mint leaves.

4. Place a small pile of the fruit at the centre of a rice paper. Roll one side in, then the two ends and finally roll it up.

5. Lay on the open side to stop opening.

6. You can tie it with a chive or a small piece of string. Remove before eating.

NEW Kids’ Cooking Classes and Parties!

Children love to cook! Join us

with your pre-schooler Children love to cook! Joinfor usfun with baking classes and crafts on your pre-schooler for fun baking Mondays, Thursdays or or classes and crafts on Mondays Fridays.

Fridays. Suitable for ages 3 - 5.

Suitable for ages 3 - 5.

Call Fiona: 07475883019 or visit

www.cookerydoodledoo.com

8

How to make: 1. .Heat the oven to 350F/180C /Gas 4.

You will need: 2.Grease and line a baking tray roughly 120g oats 20cm square.

2 mashed bananas 3.Mix together the quinoa, chia seeds, salt 60g quinoa and cinnamon with the oats in a large ¼ tsp salt bowl. Add the mashed banana and vanilla 1 tsp cinnamon and then the nuts and dried fruit.

2 tbsp chia seeds 4.In a small saucepan, melt the butter or ½ tsp vanilla extract margarine over a low heat and add the 30g chopped almonds honey. When melted, fold in to the 30g chopped pecans granola mixture. Pour into the pan and 40g dried cranberries press it down until it is level.

50g butter or margarine 5.Bake for 20-25 minutes.

2 tbsp honey 6.Cut into fingers while still warm and leave to cool completely.

Families Gloucestershire

Usually filled with tofu, herbs and noodles, they are a great snack and if you can find the rice paper wrappers in a local oriental food supplier, you can not only make those but also these amazing fruity rolls, perfect for lunch boxes.

Fiona runs Cookery Doodle Doo cooking classes from her home in Cheltenham. She says “ever since I can remember, I have been interested in food; whether cooking in my own kitchen or sampling the delights both local and of those countries that I have had the opportunity to visit. I am also a bit of a ‘cook book junkie’, with a total of 175 at the last count! Cooking has always been a large part of my life from an early age, starting with my own mother who always produced freshly prepared food for the family. This is something that I have continued with my own son who, while being a very physical little boy, enjoys our time together in the kitchen – it is very hands on, allows for lots of creativity and not to mention the satisfaction of the end product!

Cooking is a fantastic activity to do with children whereby they can learn a whole range of skills as well as providing an understanding of food and where it comes from.

Based in the Cotswolds, we are fortunate to have fabulous local produce on our doorstep and through Cookery Doodle Doo, I look forward to sharing recipes that deliver on nutrition, flavour and most importantly fun!”

Please email fiona@cookerydoodledoo.com or phone 07475883019 about upcoming classes.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July - August 2017

Cool Kids For Summer

Health Tips for keeping your child cool during the day • Avoid synthetic fabrics that trap heat; opt for loose natural fibres like cotton or muslin.

• Give lots of nappy-free time.

• Stay in the shade and encourage your child to spend some quiet time to prevent him sweating too much.

• Playing in a paddling pool will keep kiddies cool. Keep it in the shade and supervise their play.

• Use a mini fan if you are out and about.

Babies and young children can become seriously ill during very hot weather suffering from dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke and so it is vital you know how to keep them cool.

How to prevent overheating On sunny days babies under six months should never be in direct sunlight and young children should be kept in the shade as much as possible, especially between 11am and 3pm.

Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids. If you're breastfeeding you won’t need to give them water as well as breast milk, but you may find your baby wants to breastfeed more than usual. If your baby is on solids or mixed feeds you can give her cooled boiled water throughout the day as well as their usual feeds.

How to prevent heatstroke On a warm day, never sit in a stationary car with your baby for too long. Even with the windows open, temperatures can rise frighteningly quickly.

Attach a parasol or sunshade to the pushchair to keep baby out of direct sunlight and make sure toddlers and older children wear a sunhat, preferably one with a wide brim or a long flap at the back, to protect their head and neck.

Prams can become hot and airless so keep a careful eye on your baby if she falls asleep in her pram.

Apply high factor sunscreen even when there is cloud coverage and re-apply regularly, particularly if your child is in and out of the sea or a paddling pool.

Heat exhaustion occurs when the temperature inside the body rises to 37-40°C (98.6-104°F). At that temperature, the levels of water and salt in the body begin to drop causing nausea, faintness and heavy sweating.

Keep children’s nightwear and bedclothes to a minimum. If it is very warm babies can sleep in just a vest and nappy, or just a nappy with a thin sheet over them.

It can be very difficult to spot these symptoms in a young child, especially if they are crying and seem red in the face and sweaty as a result of a tantrum.

Keeping hydrated Babies and infants are sensitive to even small amounts of fluid loss so one of the biggest problems during warmer weather is dehydration which, in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Early warning signs of dehydration are feeling thirsty and lightheaded and having concentrated, strong-smelling urine.

Early symptoms of heatstroke can include mental confusion, hyperventilation (rapid shallow breathing) and loss of consciousness. These too can be difficult to spot in a baby or young child so the thermometer has to be your initial guide.

July- August 2017

Heatstroke is very serious and should be treated as a medical emergency.

• Use cold, wet flannels, or give them a tepid bath or shower to cool their skin and let them air dry rather than using towels.

• Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids.

Tips for keeping your child cool at night • Remove unnecessary bedding. Opt for a cool muslin sleeping bag.

• If he is still hot let him sleep in a vest and nappy, or even just a nappy • Open windows in several rooms to create a through breeze.

• Give them a tepid bath, or sponge bath, before bed and let them air dry while lying on a towel so the evaporation of the water will cool their skin down.

• Keep bedrooms cool throughout the day by closing blinds or curtains. Turn a room fan on before bedtime. A fan can be left on all night – but well out of reach and never pointed directly at the cot or bed.

• Hanging wet towels over chairs or windows cools the air.

• Remove waterproof under sheets or cover with several layers of cotton sheets to absorb perspiration.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

9

Clubs and Classes

FREE bag of animal food with this voucher!

Re-Opens 5th April

‘Easter at the Farm’ Lamb Bottle Feeding & Treasure Hunt.

NEW Soft Play, Pony Rides, Tractor Rides, Giant Sandpit, Play Barn, Friendly Animals, and much more!

www.NewbridgeFarmPark.com

Near Ledbury, HR8 2QG

01531 670780

In Safe, Fun Hands With Super Camps

Entertain The Chil Trying to keep children occupied can be difficult enough on evenings and weekends, let alone when you have six weeks of summer holidays to contend with. But trying to keep them busy, and trying to not spend a lot of money doing it, is another matter. But don't fear there are lots of ideas and activities that can be done for next to nothing.

Hiking All you have to do is put on your most sensible form of footwear and head out there. Getting out up a hill or through a forest can open up your children’s imaginations. The smell and touch of the outdoors are a welcome change from everyday life.

Chalk Grabbing some chalk and scribbling on the pavements is a great way to open up their artistic side while they get some fresh air, and it can also make them think that they are playing the rebel. Don’t worry: the next spot of rain will clear away the evidence.

Museums and art galleries Some museums and galleries are expensive. But what a lot of people do not realise is there are countless free museums to be explored on a whole range of subjects.

Gardening One of the beautiful things about gardening for adults is the ability to create a vision in your head, plant, and then watch that vision grow into reality. Help your child be part of that process and plant flowers and vegetables or sow some seeds. It is a wonderful biology lesson, and they won’t even realise it!

Super Camps activities and courses, held during the school holidays at St Edward’s Preparatory School, Cheltenham, allows children to get involved in some great activities. As well as taking part in the fun-packed programme, children are cared for by fully qualified and vetted staff to create a thoroughly enjoyable time on camp.

As Ofsted noted: Super Camps runs “an excellent programme of wellplanned, fun and exciting activities that contributes highly to the children’s play and learning environment.”w www.supercamps.co.uk Save 15% on all Super Camp courses by quoting FAMILIES17 10

Families Gloucestershire

Home cinema Watch out for the latest premiere on your home TV, darken the room and make your own popcorn. The kids will love it, and you will love not travelling and paying a small fortune for snacks.

Volunteer OK, this may be a hard sell but could provide a wonderful life lesson. Volunteering can be done on a huge range of tasks, be it simply providing company for a neighbour or walking a dog. Learning the value of doing something for nothing may give your children a fulfilling early life experience.

Baking Cooking is an important life lesson for anybody, so why not start them out young with the most joyous form of cooking, baking! The kids will love getting involved, especially with all the messy parts of baking.

Bike ride Bikes are a great, free and fun way to spend a few hours. Whether you have

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July - August 2017

Clubs and Classes th 10

ldren For Free

FOR AGES 4-18YRS

AC T !

CE! ACT !

AN

E!

Work with West End and TV performers from:

SING! D

017 OOLS 2 H C S R E M M U S

y ar rs ve ni An

PERFORMING ARTS TUITION

ANNIE, LES MISERABLES, SI N G ! DA N C CHARLIE & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, JOSEPH AND HIS TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT, THE BRIT AWARDS, XFACTOR, BRITAINS GOT TALENT. Be inspired, grow in confidence, learn new skills and make new friends!

31st July - 4th August 2017 in Stroud With competitive prices and unrivalled access to amazing tutors, places sell out quickly!

Book early to avoid disappointment!

“My favourite week of the whole year” Eloise - age 11yrs.

✫

✫

✫

t: 0845 519 6455 e: alice@shineonstage.co.uk

www.shineonstage.co.uk somewhere local or can drive to a park, the children will love the independence and freedom that comes with riding a bike.

Sports at the park Grab a bat, ball or whatever they love and head to the nearest park. Get your friends and their families involved and make a day of it. Get involved yourself and they will love it even more.

Head to the beach Children love beaches, it is almost universal. They have a seemingly unlimited supply of a material they rarely get to play with, sand! Running away from the waves, skimming stones, building sandcastles, making pictures in the wet sand...hey, you might even turn into a kid yourself for the day!

Paint Painting is one of those things that you know will end with a lot of cleaning up! However, you only have to look at their faces when they paint to see the fun that can be had. Just make sure you are all wearing aprons and have a lots of newspapers down!

Fun With West End Stars Shine On Stage celebrates the 10th Anniversary of their ever popular annual Summer Schools in Stroud 31 July - 4 August at The Cotswold Playhouse. Selling out each, and every year, the week sees young people aged 4-18years creating full scale shows which are performed at the end of the week to friends and family. Sparkles aged 4-7years spend five half days singing, dancing, acting and even making their own costumes, whilst the 7-18year olds spend five full days working with industry experts and VIP tutors from some of the hottest shows in the West End such as Annie, Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, Joseph, Les Mis, Mamma Mia plus TV credits on The Brit Awarsd, XFactor, Britains Got Talent. The Summer School is a super friendly, inspirational experience loved by all involved. If you'd like to join us or for further information please take a look at our website and contact us: www.shineonstage.co.uk, email: alice@shineonstage.co.uk or call 0845 519 6455.

Puzzles They seem to be a dying breed now, but sitting down as a family and completing a puzzle or a board game is a wonderful way to spend a few hours with the family.

Picnic Get a collection of your favourite foods and make a day of it - it will provide some of their greatest summer memories.

July - August 2017

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

11

Travel

Tips On Flying With Young Children

Will you be travelling abroad with your young children this year? Here are a few tips for a stressfree journey...

*WITH THIS VOUCHER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER 2017. PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED AND THIS VOUCHER MAY ONLY BE USED ONCE. FAMGLOS 12

Families Gloucestershire

1

Check if your airport has a dedicated crèche. Some are equipped with toys, books and rest rooms.

2

Ask if you can take your buggy to the flight’s gate so your little one will have somewhere familiar to nap if your flight is delayed.

3

Pack plenty of wet wipes in your handbag.

4

Get your children used to drinking room temperature drinks as it can be difficult to keep bottles cool or warm.

5

Pre-book children's meals on flights. They get served first and you will avoid the endless wait for food.

6

Breastfeed your baby, or have a drink ready for an older child when the flight is taking off and landing as the sucking motion will help equalise the pressure in the ears.

7

Under-twos usually travel free as long as they sit on a parent’s lap. If your budget will stretch to it maybe pay the extra fare so you have an extra seat.

8

A seat near the bulkhead (where there is a division or toilet in front) may have a bit of extra room, so your toddler could play on the floor.

9

Take plenty of baby food and mini snacks with you.

10

Try to time your child’s day so they will have a nap on the flight. Some airlines provide pillows and blankets.

11

Dress children in layers as they can get too warm on a flight – or too cold if the air conditioning is on full blast.

12

Take non-battery toys and games with you like good old fashioned colouring books.

13

Let your child have their own carry-on bag of small games and treats. Trunkis (the animal shaped wheelie siton-and-ride cases) are good fun.

14

Keep an eye on your child’s feet to make sure the seat in front doesn't get kicked.

15

But most of all: try to keep calm and enjoy yourself… it is your well-earned holiday too! www.emmasdiary.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July - August 2017

What’s On

Check with the venue for full details.

Please mention Families Gloucestershire.

What’s On FESTIVALS

TEWKESBURY MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.org 8 -9 July. Thousands of entertainers and traders from all over Europe will gather in Tewkesbury for Europe’s largest annual Medieval reenactment.

Until 21 July. Kitchen Chaos. Come and experiment with flavours and ingredients choices in the Kitchen with some weird and wonderful combinations!

31 July - 1 September. During the school holidays there will be a variety of activities exploring how the Forest can be used as a resource.

Until 21 July. Experimentation Station.

Do you have a curious scientific mind?

Bring your ideas and put them to the test in Live Lab!

DYRHAM PARK Dyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER (Sat Nav: SN14 8HY) 0117 937 2501 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park

CHEDWORTH ROMAN VILLA Yanworth, Cheltenham, GL54 3LJ 01242 GLOUCESTER QUAYS FOOD 890256 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ FESTIVAL chedworth-roman-villa St Ann Way, Gloucester GL1 5SH 29 July - 4 August. The Romans are www.gloucesterquays.co.uk coming! Discover what life was like in 28 – 30 July. Live cooking, entertainment, ancient Rome with re-enactors of the food, drink and music fuse for a fun FREE Roman Military Research Society. 29 - 30 family day out. Enjoy free hands on July watch military displays; 31 July - 4 cooking activities for children at the ‘Kids August enjoy displays of Roman civilian Cookery School’. life. 9 August. Ranger workshops: bug hunt. Search for creepy crawlies at GLOUCESTERSHIRE COUNTRY AND VINTAGE EXTRAVAGANZA Chedworth Roman Villa South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester.

14 - 31 August. The Big Dig. As part of a www.glosvintageextravaganza.co.uk five year research programme, 4 - 6 August. In its 43rd year and has grown from a steam show to now include over 600 classic cars, over 200 Vintage and classic motorbikes, fun fair, craft tent, vintage village and kids centre. All the money raised is donated to local charities.

STROUD FRINGE FESTIVAL visit www.stroudfringe.co.uk

archaeological digs at Chedworth Roman Villa continue. Watch archaeologists excavate more of the North Range.

COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK Bradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4JP 01993 823006 www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

1 – 31 August. Rhino Month. The keepers will be doing a daily talk throughout August at 2pm near the Rhino Paddock about these magnificent animals, the threats and the conservation work that is going on to try and protect them for DAYS OUT future generations.

AT-BRISTOL 9 July. Marcos Car Rally Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB 0845 345 13 August. Fairthorpe Sports Car Rally.

1235 www.at-bristol.org.uk 25 – 27 August. Free family festival. Enjoy vibrant culture and musical performances, set in one of the most exciting, creative towns in the Cotswolds.

Until 5 September. Summer Stargazing 3D. Fly through the rings of Saturn, discover constellations of stars, and enjoy a spectacular meteor shower!

DEAN HERITAGE CENTRE Soudley, Cinderford, Gloucestershire GL14 2UB 01594 822 170 www.deanheritagecentre.com

2, 16 and 30 August. Wild woodland days. Identify insects and plants, build dens, cook over an open fire, take part in games and activities and create some wild art work outdoors.

NEWARK PARK Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7PZ 01453 842644 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park 14, 16-20 August. Wildlife Week. We are wild about wildlife at Newark - join us for this special week to find out more.

SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge 22 July - 3 September. Dusty’s Wildlife Rangers. Throughout the summer holidays you can discover a world of wildlife at Slimbridge with Dusty Duck.

22 July - 5 September. Summer Movie Competition. Become a wildlife filmmaker and create your own wetland wildlife movie.

THE ISBOURNE HOLISTIC CENTRE Isbourne House, 3 Wolseley Terrace, Cheltenham GL50 1TH (Please note that satnav takes you past the back of the buildings via Trafalgar Street.) 01242 254321 www.isbourne.org 6 August. Family Fun Day. Discover how to live well as a family at this fun-filled free event. Activities for every generation of the family to enjoy from yoga and dance, to mindfulness. Cafe open.

Mander Hall Academy, working with former West End dancer, Tom Goodall and his team, bring you an exciting four-day summer school from 29 August to 1 September at Balcarras School, Cheltenham. Tom has a wealth of stage and screen experience including West End shows, major stadium tours (eg Take That and Anastacia) and hit film Mama Mia. Learn specially choreographed routines to your favourite tracks, songs from West End musicals, staging and performance skills, as well as vocal coaching, characterisation and improvisation.

A sample of the work will be performed at the end to parents. Mander Hall Academy also runs Saturday classes call 07825 630 751.

July - August 2017

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

13

What’s On

Please check with the venue in case details have changed and also please note that with some venues, it is cheaper to pay in advance on-line.

even a python loose at Batsford Arboretum. See web site for ticket prices.

Take a journey together through stories exhibitions • installations events • activities Open daily throughout the summer holidays Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP

www.storymuseum.org.uk Registered charity 1107809

WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM Tetbury, Glos, GL8 8QS 01666 880220 Advert for Families magazine.indd 1 www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbir

OUTDOOR THEATRE

STIHL Treetop Walkway. Your breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Westonbirt’s wonderful trees! The STIHL Treetop Walkway offers you spectacular views across the arboretum landscape.

Gloucestershire Slingmeets GLOUCESTER AND CHELTENHAM SLING MEETS For times and venues please check www.facebook.com/ cheltenhamandgloucesterslinglibrary STROUD SLING MEETS Parliament Street Children’s Centre, Old Bisley Rd, Stroud

Gloucestershire Breastfeeding Supporters’ Network Support Groups All groups are free drop-in sessions. You don’t need to have a breastfeeding problem. Monday.

10.00 – 12.00 noon: MOBS in Dursley, Parish Room, St James the Great Church GL11 4JE Tuesday. 10.00 – 12 noon: BAPS, Hesters Way Children’s Centre, Dill Avenue,Cheltenham GL51 0ES Wednesday. 10.30 – 12.00 noon: BABES, Noah’s Ark Children’s Centre, York Road, Priors Park, Tewkesbury, GL20 5HU Thursday 9.30am – 11.30am: CRIBS, Church Hall, St John’s Church, Churchdown GL3 2DB 10.00am – 11.30am: BEST, Springboard Children’s Centre, Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU 10.00am – noon: MOBS in Stroud, Parliament Street Children’s Centre, Bisley Old Road, Stroud GL5 1NL 12.30pm – 2.00pm: GLOBES, Gardners Lane Children’s Centre, Cheltenham GL51 9JW. Full information: www.gbsn.org.uk

Cheltenham Children’s Centre Baby Groups

Every Monday at St. Margaret’s Hall, GL51 3NU 10.00am-11.30am (0-18 months) Every Tuesday at Rowanfield Children Centre, GL51 8HY 1.00pm-2.30pm (mums to be and

14

Families Gloucestershire

30/05/2017 BATSFORD ARBORETUM Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB 01386 701441 www.batsarb.co.uk

27 July. The Jungle Book.Warning! Wild animals at large! Watch your back around the Cotswolds this summer as Jenny Wren Productions let wolves, tigers, bears, and

pre-walking babies) Every Wednesday at Gardners Lane Children Centre, GL51 9JW 10.00am -11.30am Every Thursday at Hester’s Way Children Centre, GL51 0ES 1.15pm -2.45pm Every Friday at Oakwood Children Centre, GL52 5QH 10.00am - 11.30am.

Bishops Cleeve Library Children’s Centre.

Every Tuesday from 10.15 – 11.30 a.m.

Bishops Cleeve Library, GL52 8NN. From new born to crawling.

NCT Courses

CHELTENHAM & NORTH COTSWOLD BRANCH First Aid Spaces are limited so please email Louisa at:events@nctcheltenham.org STROUD BRANCH NCT Signature antenatal course

For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact your local course organiser on 0208 752 2494 or bookings3f@nct.org.uk NCT Early Days/Postnatal course For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact your local course organiser on 0208 752 2494 or bookings3f@nct.org.

TETBURY BRANCH Signature antenatal course For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact bookings3d@nct.org.uk uk

DYRHAM PARK Dyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER (Sat Nav: SN14 8HY) 0117 937 2501 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park 5 - 6 August. The Comedy of Errors. The Lord Chamberlain’s Men, the UK’s premier all male theatre company, invite you to join them this summer for Shakespeare’s most hilarious farce.

NEWARK PARK Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7PZ www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park 4 August. A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

A special evening of outdoor theatre with the Pantaloons. See web site for ticket prices. Booking essential.

13:46:41 ROCOCO GARDENS Gloucester Road, Painswick, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 6TH 01452 813204 www.rococogarden.org.uk 21 July A Midsummer Night’s Dream The Handlebards Gents. Yes - they too

NCT Drop Ins CIRENCESTER BRANCH Bumps, Babes & Beyond: Every Wednesday 9.30am - 11.00am at Cirencester Baptist Church, Chesterton Lane.

Contact: ParentSupport.cirencester@nct.org.uk BEST - Breastfeeding Support: Every Thursday, 10.00am – 11.30am at Springboard Children’s Centre, Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU. Contact: breastfeeding@cirencesternct.org.uk GLOUCESTER BRANCH Gloucester Breakfast Club: Every Wednesday.

10:00am – 11:30am. Wheatstone Inn, Centre Seven, Gloucester GL4 3HR. Open to all, members and non-members. Contact: coordinator.gloucester@nct.org.uk Relax, Stretch & Breathe Classes: Every Monday in term time.

For more info visit www.nct.org.uk.uk/ gloucester/courses Gloucester Bumps and Babies Every Tuesday from 10.30am-12.00 noon at Salvation Army Hall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1QU. You don’t need to be a member to come along.

Contact: Gloucester@nct.org.uk Tots on the Move at Tinies Nursery at Gloucester College on Llanthony Road, GL2 5JQ. Every Monday term time only 10.00am -11.30am no need to be a member. Parking is limited.

TETBURY BRANCH Bumps and Babes: Every Wednesday 10.30am – 12.00 noon at The Snooty Fox, Market Place, Tetbury GL8 8DD

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July - August 2017

What’s On

Please mention you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire magazine

Seize The Summer: This summer Explore Learning are offering all readers a free trial of their summer workshops at their centre in Cheltenham. To book a free trial call 030 3003 4006 and quote Families Gloucestershire. explorelearning.co.uk tour the country by bike and perform Shakespeare outdoors. Set on the Bowling Green in the heart of the Garden, this is likely to be one of our best sellers.

SANDFORD PARK LIDO Keynsham Rd, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL53 7PU www.sandfordparkslido.org.uk 26 August. Three Men in a Boat. Come along on the adventure of a lifetime – well, of the Summer at least – and sail on down the River Thames with three men in a boat (to say nothing of the dog).

TUCKWELL AMPHITHEATRE Sat Nav: GL51 6HE www.bacontheatre.co.uk/ about-us/open-airtheatre/ 23 July. Blunderbus: Dogs Don’t Do Ballet. Biff is not like other dogs. He likes moonlight and music and walking on his tiptoes. You see, Biff doesn’t think he’s a dog. He thinks he’s a ballerina!

MUSEUMS, GALLERIES, ARTS & CRAFTS CORINIUM MUSEUM Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 2BX 01285 655611 www.coriniummuseum.org Selected dates 27 July – 24 August. Family drop-ins and workshops. Make your own Roman Shields, Roman Cockerels, Roman Soldier on a Stick, Pop-up Medieval Abbey, Pop-up Ice Age or Woolly Mammoths when you join one of the museum’s many family drop-in sessions and workshops. See web site for further details.

July - August 2017

COURSES FOR ACTIVITIES AND THE SCHOOL CHILDREN DURINGYS HOLIDA

NATURE IN ART Wallsworth Hall, Sandhurst, Gloucester GL2 9PA 01452 731422 www.nature-in-art.org.uk/

WARD’S CAMPS AT ST ED L IN PREP SCHOO CHELTENHAM

, 8AM - 6PM MONDAY - FRIDAYED REGISTERED AGES 4 - 12 • OFST DE SAVE 15% WITH CO

FAMILIES17

FROM

£PER3DA4Y

26 July – 1 September.

Summer Activity Days. From bunting, drawing, batik, all things bees, sculpture to printing, Nature in Art has an activity your child will love.

See website for full listings and to book.

THE WILSON Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum, Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT 01242 237431 www.thewilson.org.uk Last Sunday of every month.

Arty Sundays. Families are invited to take part in free fun and interactive art activities.

2, 9, 16,23,30 August.

Wednesday Crafty Fun: Dropin for All The Family. Fun craft-based activities in our dedicated learning space!

15 August. Time Capsules: Kids can contact their futureselves and create a unique time capsule.

BABIES AND TODDLERS LILLIPUT CONCERTS Chapel Arts knapp Road, GL50 3QQ Cheltenham, Gloucestershire 10 July. The a2 Horn Duo. 10:30am – 11.30am. Live music in a relaxed environment for babies and toddlers and their adults. 40 minutes of music Time to socialise afterwards. This month we link up with the Cheltenham Music Festival.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/ LilliputConcerts

Book Today! Put your event in front of 38,000 readers with school aged children.

Call 01684 770566 to advertise in Families Gloucestershire

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

15

Families Gloucestershire

Don’t forget to say you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire magazine

THE UK’s NO.1 FOREST ADVENTURE at Forest of Dean, nr. Gloucester

k .u o .c e p a o g t a k o o B or call 0845 838 1612 quote FAMFD7 †

*Offer valid until 31st December 2017, excludes Saturdays, Corporate Events and purchase of gift vouchers.

Discount code must be entered at time of booking. Only valid at Forest of Dean. †Calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge - please see our website.

16

Families Gloucestershire

10

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

% O F F PER PERSON

*

July - August 2017