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CONTENTS
Contact Us Tel: 07958284983 Editor: Dale Harry Email: editor@familiesherts.co.uk Web: www.familiesonline.co.uk /FamiliesHerts
In This Issue 4 7 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20
News Education Father’s Day gifts Summer camps Kids’ parties Adventures at home Win a holiday Summer food Travel Outdoor Toys Adventures Outdoors Events Listing
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Welcome So much to look forward to in May and June, including two bank holidays, one of them extralong! Yippee! Warm sunny days are on the horizon so start planning some family adventures in your local area and exploring the great outdoors again. If you are looking at planning a break but want something that will truly be family-friendly, check out our ‘tried and tested’ suggestions. If you have a little one who starts school in September, now is also the time to start thinking about preparation. Find advice and resources in our Education section. Finally, in this issue, we have lots of giveaways, including a family holiday and cuddly Care Bear companions for your child to fall in love. Don’t forget to apply!
Fun is an essential ingredient in all our nurseries where the care and education opportunities for each and every child are as extraordinary as our colleagues who provide them.
LOCKERS PARK “Lockers Park prepares boys for success in the modern world.” Tatler Schools Guide
FOR CHILDREN AGED 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS OPEN 7.30AM TO 6.30PM
Join a Stay & Play Session Thursday 12 May, 9.30-11am T: 01707 392999 E: hertfordbarns.nursery@childbase.com Hertford Barns Day Nursery, Cole Green, Hertford, SG14 2NL T: 01582 792060 E: nurseryonthegreen.redbourn@childbase.com
Children and their parents are welcome to join a fun lesson and play time at Little Lockers (our Pre-Prep) and meet our Reception Teacher and Headmaster. Visit lockerspark.co.uk to book.
Nursery on the Green, South Common, Redbourn, Hertfordshire, AL3 7NG
WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU www.childbasepartnership.com
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Excellent results | Enthusiasm for life A purposefully small prep school for boys aged 4-13 | Boxmoor, Hertfordshire
May/June 3
NEWS
Go on a magical adventure with Perform’s Peter Pan course enjoys every minute as they work towards a showstopping performance to delight family and friends. ‘Freyja got so much out of those three days; it’s given her a lot of confidence in her ability to join in, make new friends With a sprinkle of and perform songs Perform fairy dust, a and dances. We team of skilled actors, were so proud of her,’ musicians and dancers said parent Emma will ensure your child Robinson. Inspire your child’s imagination this summer with a unique drama, dance and singing holiday course. In •July or August, your Childminders 4-10 old can fly • year Day Nurseries away to of Neverland • Out School Care with Peter Pan, Tinker • Pre-School Playgroups Bell and friends and much moreon … an unforgettable confidence-building adventure.
The Peter Pan summer course takes place in St Albans (Fleetville Junior School), from 1-5 August. For more information on these classes, and to book, visit website
Try a class for free Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s run throughout the summer term and, with over 300 classes running each week, there’s sure to be a class near you. Venues: St Albans, Harpenden, Welwyn Garden City, Bishops Stortford, Broxbourne, Potters Bar, Cuffley (new!), Hertford, Hitchin, Letchworth, Borehamwood, Knebworth (new!), Radlett, Royston (new!) Visit website to book a free trial session. 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk
Find childcare in Hertfordshire To find an Ofsted registered childcare provider near you and to enquire about spaces visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/childcaredirectory
ALL STAFF DBS CHECKED
HOLIDAY CLUB in St Albans! EASTER HOLS : 4th -14th April OPEN ALL SUMMER 25th July – 2nd Sept COME JOIN US FOR ALL DAY FUN AND EXCITING ACTIVITIES!!
For All 4-11 year olds to Enjoy!!
Qualified & Experienced Staff Great Indoor & Outdoor spaces
Tel: 07913 323608 replay5905@ntlworld.com 4 May/June
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NEWS
Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations at Shuttleworth On Sunday 5 June Shuttleworth will be celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with a Jubilee Flying Circus Air Show. From the moment you arrive, circus performers on the ground and in the air will leave you and your family with wide eyes and open mouths, whilst a circus skills workshop will teach your kids the ropes.
a symbol of the rich history captured within this stunning location. The day will also include a variety of activities in the Collection hangars, keeping the children (or the young at heart!) entertained. The Jubilee Flying Circus is a truly unique day out and will be a memorable occasion for all the family to celebrate.
You’ll be able to experience the sensations of riding on-board a 1920s bus – whether it’s the sole surviving Charabus or the Wellingborough double-decker. The beautiful Swiss Garden and the grand Shuttleworth House will be open to explore and are To book your tickets, visit website
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May/June 5 QP Families Herts - May.indd 1
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NEWS
Holiday fun at Camp Beaumont With the school holidays just around the corner, and the dilemma of childcare approaching, Camp Beaumont, the UK’s most experienced day camp provider, is on hand to provide your child with a fun-filled adventure at over 40 locations across the South-East. With over 50 activities each week, not only will your child sharpen up their social skills, they can pursue new
interests too, develop new talents and unleash their creative side.
exclusive club-style teens programme for 12-16 year olds.
Camp Beaumont’s Activities range from award-winning multiAqua Olympics to activity adventure Superhero Academy, camps take place and each activity every school holiday, programme is tailored including May halfby age group, including term and summer. a nursery-style playtime programme for 3-4 year olds, a unique magic programme for 5-7 year olds, a thrilling active programme for 8-11 year olds and an
To book, visit website or call 01604 851 0000
LOOK FORWARD TO SAVOURING THE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND SCENTS OF SPRING, RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP. BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW. WE CAN’T WAIT TO WELCOME YOU. THE PARK AND GARDENS ARE OPEN TO VISITORS NOW.
SPACE TO LIVE, WORK, MEET & RELAX
Explore the park & gardens
WWW.HATFIELDPARK.CO.UK
6 May/June
T:01707 287010
Indulge at the Stable Yard Shops & restaurant
E:VISITORS@HATFIELD-HOUSE.CO.UK
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EDUCATION
Times tables learning resources It really is true that multiplication tables are the bedrock of maths learning. Get your child up to speed with the following resources.
Math Songs by NUMBEROCK
Numberjacks Times Table App
Times Tables Flashcards
Learn times tables by singing about them! FREE
Times table activities based on the CBeebies show. FREE
Rapid recall practice in the 1-12 times tables. Ages 8-11. £6.99
Colour-coded Multiplication Square
The Times Table Adventure
Times Tables Heroes Board Game
Visual aid which helps spot patterns and learn tables. FREE
Times Tables Wall Chart Download and stick up where they’ll be seen often. FREE
Familiesonline.co.uk
Ideal for children who like video games like Minecraft. FREE
10 Minutes A Day Times Tables
Book featuring 10 minute games and tests. Maximum fun, maximum effect. £14.99
Fun multiplication board game to prepare for Year 4 tables check. £11.75
Number Rumbler Card Game A family card game which practises times tables. £7.99
May/June 7
Care and share with Care Bears Bean Plush! EDUCATION
Apply for a FREE Bean Plush 22cm Care Bear* Perfect company for your child’s adventures APPLY HERE
*while stocks last T&Cs apply
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8 May/June
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EDUCATION
Starting school resources
If you have a little one starting school in September, now is a good time to start gently preparing them for the big day.
Get Ready for School Activity Pack
Fun, wipe clean books in smart carry case. £9.70
Going to School
A great Usborne picture book introducing the school experience. £4.99
Teach Your Monster to Read
Fun, engaging game that practises essential reading skills. FREE Familiesonline.co.uk
Phonics Play
Website with phonics information, games and activities. FREE
My First Day at School Game
BBC Bitesize interactive game explaining what school may be like. FREE
Bud’s Number Game
Educational game to get your child started with numbers. FREE
Preparing Your Child for Starting School
Top tips booklet to help children with transition. FREE
Teachers
Pupils explain what a teacher does and how to behave in class. FREE
Starting Primary School
Everything you need to get prepared, from home to classroom. FREE May/June 9
FATHER’S DAY
Father’s Day gift suggestions
Is it sometimes difficult to know what to buy for dad? Here are our top picks.
Dad’s Shed Slate Sign
Handcrafted natural slate sign to mark out dad’s territory. £12.99
Docking Station Help dad keep all his things together – stylishly! £27.90
Supercar Driving Day
Get day in a race car! Circuits UK-wide. From £39
Peppa Pig: My Burgon & Ball Billionaire Gardening Gloves Shortbread Truffles Daddy Board Book
These quality gloves are For dads with a sweet great for dads with green tooth - a little decadence. fingers. £17.99 £16
Bread Baking Club Gift Subscription
Your dad could be star baker with this 3-month gift subscription. £36 10 May/June
100 Things to Do with Dad Scratch Off Bucket List Poster 100 activities! £10.99
Something for dad to read with your little one. £4.49
Personalised Socks with your Child’s Drawing
Celebrate Father’s Day and your child’s artwork. £20 Familiesonline.co.uk
SUMMER CAMPS
Summer camps checklist
To help you book a summer camp or workshop and get your child ready.
What to wear
For cool weather, warm comfortable clothes including a jacket/coat and jumper/hoodie. For sunny weather, suitable clothes and sun hat. Apply sun cream once before your child leaves the house. Comfortable footwear.
General questions
What to take
Swimming costume and towel. An apron or shirt for creative activities. Refillable water bottle Packed lunch and snacks, if needed. Rucksack (to carry everything). Sun cream, if required.
Childcare questions
How many children are there on a camp? What age group will my child be in? Can my child be in the same group as their friend/sibling? Do I need to provide lunch and snacks? Do you provide sun cream?
Are you registered with Ofsted?
Questions about booking and costs
Get the best out of family life!
Is wraparound care available?
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Can I make changes to my booking? What is the last date for changes? Can I pay in instalments? If there’s wraparound care, how much is it? Will I pay extra if I’m delayed in collecting my child? Are all activities included in the cost?
Will my child have a key worker?
IN THIS ISSUE
Activities Tips/Advice Days Out familiesonline.c o.uk
May/June 11
KIDS’ PARTIES
Party bag fillers
Want to avoid plastic tat but stuck for alternatives? Try these out for size.
Decopatch Mini Animal Kits
Make a cute animal mache shape with these gorgeous kits. £7.30
Colour-in Splat T-shirts
Doubles as a party activity! Wash and colour-in again. From £9.95
Sweetie Jewellery Activity Kit
Smiggle Party Colour Art Jar
Hello Bee Craft Kits
Pre-filled Thank You Party Cone
Make yummy jewellery & a craft jewellery box. £12.99
Art kit with rainbow markers, colouring sheets & graphite pencil. £9.20
Designed for children 3+, perfect for keeping little hands busy. From £8
Colourful paper cones full of treats and including thank you note. £3.75
The Curious Caterpillar PreFilled Bags
Mini Sunflowers Growing Kit
Craft & Crumb Bake Kit Party Bags
Large variety of pre-filled bags for girls and boys. From £1.90 12 May/June
Easy to grow mini sunflowers. Includes seeds, compost and activity sleeve. £6
Make, bake and decorate cookies and biscuits with these kits. From £4.50 Familiesonline.co.uk
ADVENTURES AT HOME
Adventures at home
I’m a big fan of planning fun-filled family adventures at home. Here’s some of our favourites from my book Adventures at Home, available here.
Garden music festival
Go without electricity
Dig out your tent, drag out your blankets and cushions, power up the radio and set up camp. Spend the day listening to music in the comfort of your own garden. Homemade ribbon wristbands and VIP lanyards allow unlimited access to the snack cupboard, fruity mocktails and ultimately, the lavatory without needing to queue!
Challenging the family to go without electricity is great fun. It encourages you to get creative with your time and introduces the broader topic of eco-living: which small changes can be made at home? Activities for the day might include painting, poetry, games, bird watching, cooking over an open flame and sleeping outside.
Stargazing
Garden fete
Our favourite way to stargaze is in an old inflatable pool, patched with duct tape and filled with duvets! It keeps the chill out whilst we snuggle down and watch for the first star to appear amidst the myths and legends.
Village fetes are often a washout but you can schedule yours in when there’s glorious sunshine! String up your bunting, bake some scones, set up a raffle and a lucky dip (from old goody bag items), provide an (unplugged) microphone for announcements, hold a pet show, even set up a Pimms’ tent (no judgement here).
Look out for the Big Bear, the Pegasus and Draco the dragon. Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 13
ADVENTURES AT HOME
Adventures at home
I’m a big fan of planning fun-filled family adventures at home. Here’s some of our favourites from my book Adventures at Home, available here.
Mini Olympics
Wildlife hunting
Our garden Olympics is an annual favourite. Open the games with a (tissue paper) Olympic flame and homemade hanging flags, followed by competitive rounds of egg and spoon, sack races, hula hooping, bean bag throwing and swing ball. Keep score on a chalkboard and finish with salt dough medals award ceremony.
Find out who you share your garden with, using a nature guide to help with identification. Encourage some new residents with a log pile house for insects, feeders for birds, a compost heap for worms, upturned pots for frogs and a colourful flowerbed for bees and butterflies. Keep an illustrated journal of what you see.
Family heritage
Reading nook
Ask relatives about their own adventures, jotting them down as you go. If the weather is rubbish, this is the perfect excuse to scour old family albums full of photos of when they were young.
A reading nook is a wonderful place to spend a lazy afternoon. Set up a den or a tepee, make it cosy inside and fill a basket with books.
And if the weather is kind, ask them to take you around their old haunts. 14 May/June
Make the most of little ones curled up in your lap for story time. Or even write your own story together. Familiesonline.co.uk
GIVEAWAYS
Win a family holiday with Away Resorts! Win a three or four night stay for a family of up to six people at an Away Resort of your choice.
Welcome to the world of Away Resorts! Experience one of its fabulous UK locations, from countryside to coast. Fall in love with a new type of holiday - where your accommodation is off-the-scale amazing and new experiences await at every turn. A holiday to create ‘remember when we did that?’ moments that will last a lifetime. Explore the New Forest, Hampshire, Tattershall Lakes or Boston West in Lincolnshire, Mersea Island in Essex, Barmouth Bay in Wales, Mill Rythe on Hayling Island or Whitecliff Bay on the Isle of Wight. APPLY HERE by 18 June 2022. T&Cs apply.
Smoby Flextreme Discovery Sets to giveaway! Turn your child’s imagination around!
Apply for a FREE Bean Plush 22cm Care Bear* Care and share with Care Bears Bean Plush!
Worth £34.99 each 5 available
APPLY HERE Magazine Familiesonline.co.uk
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May/June 15
FOOD
Cooling summer treats Get the kids involved in making these perfect treats for hot summer days.
Club tropicana ice cream cake
Watermelon & strawberry slushies
Vegan orange lollies
Easy strawberry ice cream
Quick banana ice cream
Fruity ice-lolly pens
Nutty caramel & choc sundaes
Frozen banana lollies
Raspberry lemonade slushies
16 May/June
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TRAVEL
Vacation staycations It’s not always easy to know whether the holiday destination you’ve found online is truly family-friendly. Families asked the experts at Tested by Tots for their tested and rated recommendations for your next break.
Sandy Balls Holiday Village, New Forest
Excellent facilities, and service. Activities for all.
Catgill Farm, Bolton Abbey, North Yorkshire
Charming and family-run On-site facilities.
Cherry Tree Farm Camping, North Devon
Sandylands Holiday Park, Ayrshire
Drayton Cottage, Isle of Wight Home from home, walk to beach, relaxing, secure garden, BBQ.
Forest Holidays, North Yorkshire
Beautiful cabins, peaceful, beach nearby. Forest activities.
Ham Bottom, Somerset
Holiday Inn Kenilworth, Warwick
Park Plaza London Riverbank
Beautiful yet cosy. Excellent facilities.
Self-catering lodges, with trampoline, slide, and climbing frame. Familiesonline.co.uk
Great value & location to explore local attractions.
300m from beach, surf gear hire, food truck & more.
Features the capital’s first hotel room designed by families for families.
May/June 17
TOYS
It’s time to play outside! If you’re looking for some entertaining garden activities for the summer, here are our recommendations.
Target Ball Game
Soft Archery Set
Wheelbarrow Set
Family garden game with giant inflatable Velcro target. All ages. £19.99
Soft, safe and durable, this set is great way for kids to discover a new hobby. Ages 8+. £39.99
Let budding gardeners develop their own green world. Ages 3+. £12
My First Giant Bubble Kit
Family Paddling Pool
Garden Tumble Tower
Youngsters will love these eco-friendly giant wooden wands. Ages 3+. £21
Big enough for families to chill out together. Ages 6+. £75
Great backyard game builds a tower over 3ft. Ages 5+. £35.99
Ladybird Wheely Bug Ride-On
Wavy Kids Slide
Sandpit Picnic Table with Lid
Suitable for decking and driveways. Easy to ride! Ages 1-3. £67.50 18 May/June
Outdoor classic offers a fast slide and 5.8ft of fun. Ages 3+. £54.99
Keeps up to four children entertained for hours. Ages 3+. £79.99 Familiesonline.co.uk
ADVENTURES OUTDOORS
Family adventures outdoors We asked our friends the Meek family for some top picks from their book 100 Family Adventures. Here’s what they have come up with.
Sleep on a beach
Eat nettle soup
Build a bridge
Be lulled to sleep by the sound of crashing waves.
Surprisingly fresh and light!
Kids love the excitement of building a natural structure.
Go on a scooter safari
Venture behind a waterfall Connect to the power and awe of a waterfall.
Make a rope swing
Put some ‘natural’ back into the outdoor play experience.
Go on a forest night walk
Go coasteering
Don’t go with the flow
Borrow some extra scooters explore the local area.
Children will love the excitement of the forest at night. Familiesonline.co.uk
A nature trail along a rocky coast. Scrambling, swimming and rock hopping.
Head ‘off piste’ - follow a stream in reverse!
May/June 19
What’s On
We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print. If you would like to feature a listing in a future issue email editor@familiesherts.co.uk
CAMP BEAUMONT
Visit Website Holiday camp fun for 3-16 year olds. Camp Beaumont has been bringing joy to lots of children and young people since 1980. Children have the time of their lives at the camps, which have a choice of over 30 activities per age group, from tennis to rocket building! The camps take place in St Albans and other school sites in Herts, London, and surrounding counties. For more information, visit campbeaumont.co.uk
PERFORM DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING CLASSES
Visit Website Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s run throughout the summer term and, with over 300 classes running each week, there’s sure to be a class near you. Venues: St Albans, Harpenden, Welwyn Garden City, Bishops Stortford, Broxbourne, Potters Bar, Cuffley (new class!), Hertford, Hitchin, Letchworth, Borehamwood, Knebworth (new!), Radlett, Royston (new!). Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a free trial session. 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@ perform.org.uk The Peter Pan summer course takes place in St Albans (Fleetville Junior School), from 1-5 August. For more information and to book visit www.perform.org.uk/peterpan
GWEN HALAM DANCE Visit Website Harpenden and Redbourn Exciting pre-school dance classes for boys and girls from 18 months to 4 years taking place in Harpenden
and Redbourn. Choose a class where you can accompany your child and dance together, then watch their confidence grow as they venture into class alone. To book a free trial class call 07792309401.
KMDT SELF DEFENCE CLASSES
St Albans, Hatfield KMDT is an all-inclusive, friendly club, encouraging families, juniors and adults to train together. Learn and train in the skills to keep you safe, including techniques to deter bullies. For ages 5 and above. Call 07824883853 for more information or to book a free trial.
MIMIC STAGE SCHOOL Visit Website Welwyn Garden City, Stevenage Small and affordable performing arts school. Excellent training in singing, acting and dancing by experienced teachers who are also industry professionals. Children are supported and encouraged in their development. Small class sizes and high standards for ages 3-18. Free trial classes 23-27 May. Locations: Hampson Park Community Centre, Hampson Park, Stevenage SG1 5QU; Fairlands Primary School, Lower Hall, Pound Avenue, Stevenage SG1 3JA; Applecroft School, Applecroft Road, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6JZ.
bring along a picnic! Inflatables for children under 5 and children 5+. Location: The Active Dacorum Hub, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 7BA (27 July, 11am-2pm); Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1DN (31 Aug, 11am-2pm); The Nap, Kings Langley, WD4 8ET (10 August, 11am-2pm). Sessions also in Tring and Berkhamsted. For further information: @ActiveDacorum on Facebook or email active@dacorum.gov.uk
THE CAPTAIN CALAMITY ADVENTURES
Captain Calamity is moving into 96 Shenley Road, Borehamwood, allowing family audiences to look forward to a year of Captain Calamity Adventures! Each 55 minute show follows a fun interactive story punctuated with marvellous magic, brilliant bubbles, stupendous science, balloon baphoonery and lots more! Show Dates: 1 May, 26 June, 25 September, 30 October, December 18. Find out more at: Website or call 01442454000.
INFLATABLE FUN IN THE SUN
Hemel Hempstead (27 July & 31 Aug), Kings Langley (10 Aug), Free inflatable fun coming to a park near you this Summer, why not make a day of it and
Many more listings in our print magazine – email editor@familiesherts.co.uk for a copy 20 May/June
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