Issue 106 September/October 2022 Familiesonline.co.uk Herts FREETake Me Home HalfAutumnEducationfunterm IN THIS ISSUE PeersMini/Peers©Chelsea
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Herts2 Christmas all in! ...with Away Resorts *Price based on 2-nights in Comfort accommodation at Sandy Balls Holiday Village in December. Correct at time of print. Forest of Light, Sandy Balls 04 Nov - 31 Dec 04TattershallWinterfest,LakesNov-31Dec Family getaways from £66* Book today at awayresorts.co.uk or call 03333 634189 GIVE YOUR CHILD A HEAD START Raise your child’s energy levels, concentration and confidence whilst they gain invaluable life skills with lessons and courses at Gosling Sports Park. They can learn to flip, jump and twist with gymnastics or they can start working towards being the next Wimbledon champion with Tennis! Discover how to kick start your child’s development at better.org.uk/lessons Better is a registered trademark and trading name of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise and registered society under the Co-operative & Community Benefit & Societies Act 2014 registration no. 27793R. Registered office: Middlegate House, The Royal Arsenal, London, SE18 6SX. Inland Revenue Charity no. XR43398. GOSLING SPORTS PARK
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Autumn can be a beautiful time of year for spending time outdoors so look for inspiration on where to enjoy some muddy walks around the UK when half term rolls around –presuming we have had some decent rain by then! And, if you want to keep your kids off screens as the nights draw in, check out our half term screen-free kids activities too.
Finally, in this issue, we have tonnes of Action Heroes Sets to giveaway! Apply for these loveable mini toy sets for your child at familiesmag.co.uk/go. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.
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Starting or going back to school can be challenging for children (and parents) so check out our Education section for some great articles that will help, including what to do if your child hates school, the mysteries of phonics explained and advice for any parents who have a child suffering from panic attacks.
Can you believe the kids are back at school already? It seems like just a moment since they were breaking up! We hope you had a fantastic summer.
The acclaimed London Chamber Orchestra is expanding its innovative music outreach programme, Music Junction, into Hertfordshire. Hundreds of young people will benefit from the programme, which supports young people with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Music Junction uses shared music making experiences to bring together young people from different backgrounds who are often siloed into separate music provision, such as those with disabilities or SEND. For more visit www.lco.co.uk/learning/music-junction/information
4-7s will venture into The Magician’s Chamber for some confidencebuilding fun with Merlin the Wizard whilst 7-12s will work on a funky festive performance of Ebenezer, basedon the Charles Dickens classic, A Christmas Carol.
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The term runs from September to December and children are welcome to try a free class at any point. Venues in St Albans, Harpenden, Welwyn Garden City, Bishops Stortford and Broxbourne.
To book a free no-obligation trial class visit www.perform.org.uk/try
A common struggle shared by many children as they start school again after the summer break is a lack of confidence, and this can stop them reaching their full potential.
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Herts4 • Childminders • Day Nurseries • Out of School Care • Pre-School Playgroups and much more … To find an Ofsted registered childcare provider near you and to enquire about spaces www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/childcaredirectoryvisit Find childcare Hertfordshirein Tel: 07913 replay5905@ntlworld.com323608 ALLCHECKEDDBSSTAFF HOLIDAY CLUB in t Albans! OPEN EVERY SCHOOL HOLIDAY For All 3.5 11 year o lds to enjoy!! Qualified & Experienced Staff Great Indoor & Outdoor spaces COME JOIN US FOR ALL DAY FUN AND EXCITING ACTIVITIES!! Based at St John Fisher Primary School NEWS Give the autumn term a confidence boost with Perform
Whether you’re looking for a confidence boost for your child or just a weekly dose of drama, dance and singing fun, Perform is back for the autumn term with two exciting productions for 4-7s and “Perform7-12s. is not a stage school,” stresses Perform Principal, Lucy Quick. “Our classes teach life skills using fun confidence-boosting drama games which results in a celebratory end of term production. The primary aim of our classes is to develop what we call the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and ThisCommunication.”term,Perform
Music for Herts children
Away Resorts boasts a choice of 21 beautiful holiday resorts, each in outstanding UK locations, with their own style and Whetherpersonality.you desire coastal or country, each resort is alive with character, surrounded by awesome local attractions and perfect for family fun. The parks are jam-packed with fantastic facilities where guests can enjoy a range of activities from arcades to swimming pools. Away Resorts offer holidays where new experiences await every turn. Book today at awayresorts.co.uk or call 03333 634189
friends. Simply type in your child’s year and the topic that they are studying (often found at the top of the worksheet) and the subject e.g. Year 4 - bus stop method, maths, into Google.
As children settle back in at school for a new academic year, parents also settle back into the routine of being called upon by their children to help them with homework. But what if you have very limited time, you are not across the school’s expectations or you simply aren’t familiar with the topic?
If the methods that your child uses are not familiar to you, don’t worry. YouTube, BBC Bitesize, Oak Academy and IXL are your
Oh dear! I can’t help my child with this
Play to your strengths
Jemma Zoe Smith is Director of The Education Hotel (www.educationhotel.co.uk).
As a busy parent, you may only have a short amount of time in which to work with your child. Make sure that you both have clear expectations about what you will be able to achieve. If you only have twenty minutes, you may not be able to finish their homework together but you may be able to tackle a few key problems before they complete the rest themselves.
If your child is needing more help than you can provide, speak to their school. There may be a club they can attend or some additional support that they can access in the lesson. Panda game
There may be some topics in which you feel you can very quickly assist your child without straining your own brain cells past the point of endurance. But if your child is struggling in multiple subjects, reach out to others. You may be able to ask other parent friends or your relatives for help.
As a tutor, I get many requests from parents to tutor their child, even when that parent is a teacher themselves. It can be hard for some children to study with their parents and you don’t want it to lead to any strain in your relationship.
By Jemma Zoe Smith
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At the end of each session, write down what you have covered in three bullet points. That way if your child gets another homework on the same topic, you can remember what you covered. These will also come in handy if you have a younger child or for end of year tests.
Simply pop your favourite fruity drinks into the moulds and shape trays and place them in the freezer. Put the frozen shapes under Mr Frosty’s hat and turn his handle to create tasty, crushed ice treats! Ages 3+ Mr Frosty The Crunchy Ice Maker available10 The game with flowers and leaves which make little panda, Sam, sneeze! Suitable for two to four players. Ages 4+ Apply www.familiesmag.co.uk/goatMarlo&Colekids’t-shirts Cool UK made t-shirts from ethical babywear brand, Marlo & Cole, created to inspire the next generation’s love of music through unique, vibrant and fun illustrated designs. Printed with child-friendly inks on Oeko-Tex cotton. T-shirts for ages 2-3, 3-4 and 4-5. available10 available5 T&C’s apply EDUCATION
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So that your time with them is productive, set goals and a timer. Goals help you prioritise and the timer prevents you from watching the clock. Your child will also have your undivided attention during this time.
This year I supported two students with exam preparation and covered over fifteen different subjects with them - only three of those subjects are my specialism. So here is what I have learnt about supporting children in subjects in which you are not confident yourself.
Maybe one day the children can study science with you and the next they can cover maths with their friend’s mum.
It can be useful to start a session by running through a video with your child. Depending on their age, you may want to run through the video first before looking over it with them. This also really helps you focus and ensures you have your head around the topic sufficiently to be able to help explain it further to your child or answer their questions.
If your child is struggling with something specific, reach out to the school and ask them if they can point you in the direction of some practice that you can do with your child. Remember you are all on the same team. Use parents evening to ask what topics are coming up and to find out when exams are. Forewarned is forearmed.
Be honest with your child. You don’t know it all and nor should you be expected to.
For you and anyone who has a child due to start school, here are some tips to get you both closer to full admittance of the phonics club!
As children develop in their phonics ability you will find they want to help you read and you can work together to read a text.
This skill can be a real stumbling block for children because they are working so hard to recognise the sounds that they can’t put them together easily.
Try I spy with whole words split up or hide some pictures for children to hunt for. The idea is you say the sounds of the object in the pictures separately and they blend them so they know what they are hunting!
What is phonics?
• Your child will be taught phonics in a specific way at school so ask them to teach you. It’s a great way for them to test their understanding.
Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, headteacher and mother of two. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk) which guides families through starting school with courses, groups and a school starters planner.
Read, read, read!
• Practise recognising the sounds.
Once children have learned the separate sounds, they then have to ‘blend’ them together to make the full word. For example, they hear or read ‘c’, ‘a’, ‘t’ and need to put the sounds together to make ‘cat.’
Oral blending is the skill to practise here. Oral blending means hearing separate sounds and putting them together without reading the letters too. It’s really helpful to practise lots of oral blending with your children from as young as the age of 2.
English is a tricky language and sometimes the same letters make different sounds.
about reading as sharing a book with your child rather than them always sitting quietly and listening. By talking about the words and language and explaining meaning, children learn and understand more.
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Top Tips
Read as often as you can, whether it’s stories, poems, cookery books, magazines - anything you have or see! Allow your child to ask questions and talk about what they understand along the Thinkway.
For example, ‘i’ can sound short as in ‘fish’ or have a longer sound like ‘eye’ in ‘find’.
• Practise blending - this can be the key to unlock entry to ‘the club!’
Phonics is a way of teaching children to read and later write. It is based on the fact that letters and groups of letters make sounds and when we put those sounds together they make words.
phonicsUnderstandingEDUCATION
• If you’re stuck or worried, ask your child’s school for help. Supporting children learning to read can be as frustrating as it is magical.
Reading to and with your child is the single most impactful thing you can do to help their reading, writing and language skills to develop. By being read to, children hear new words, learn the flow of language and develop their understanding of grammar.
Phonics is one of those things that feels like a secret clubsome people understand it and to others it’s gobbledegook! If you have a child at school, they’re part of ‘the club’ and they may look at you in disbelief when you ask what a digraph or blending is.
By Emma Lewry
• Read, read, read!
If the thought of supporting your child with phonics fills you with dread, never fear! There is one simple thing you can do which will help them beyond your expectations: reading!
Blending can be the key
• Help children to spot when two or three letters work together to make one sound e.g ‘ai’ in ‘rain’ and ‘igh’ in ‘light’.
I hope these tips help you joining the Phonics Club!
There are different groups of letters that make sounds: a digraph is two letters that go together to make one sound e.g. ‘ch’ in Achop.trigraph is three letters together making one sound e.g. ‘ear’ in As‘near’.children develop their knowledge, they build up and put together all of the sounds they recognise in order to read and write.
For example, say separate sounds, a bit like a robot, and get your child to blend them together to make the word. You can do this in sentences e.g. put on your ‘c’, ‘oa’, ‘t’ or let’s go to the ‘p’, ‘ar’, ‘k’.
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Herts 7 Year 7 Open Evening: Year 7 Entry September 2023 Thursday 22nd September | 5:00 pm 7:00 pm Open morning tours available from 23rd September 21st October. To book please BARCLAYadmissions@barclay.futureacademies.orgcontact:ACADEMY,WALKERNROAD,STEVENAGE,HERTSSG1 3RB T: 01438 232221 Sixth Form Open Evening: Sixth Form Entry 2023 Tuesday 15th November | 5:00 pm 7:00 pm Book your open evening visit today www.barclay.futureacademies.orgat BARCLAYOPENACADEMYDAYS LAUREATE ACADEMY OPEN DAYS Year 7 Open Events: Year 7 Entry September 2023 Tuesday 20th September | 8:40 am 10:15 am Wednesday 21st September | 8:40 am 10:15 am Thursday 22nd September | 5:00 pm 7:15 pm Sixth Form Open Evening: Sixth Form Entry 2023 Thursday 13th October | 5:00 pm 7:00 pm LAUREATE ACADEMY, WARNERS END ROAD, HEMEL HEMPSTEAD, HP1 3DW T: 01442 404333 Book your visit today www.laureate.futureacademies.orgat LOCKERS PARK “Lockers Park prepares boys for success in the modern world.” Tatler Schools Guide Join a Stay & Play Session 30 September or 21 October, 9.30-11am 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. OPEN MORNING - Saturday 15 October Visit lockerspark.co.uk to book. Excellent results | Enthusiasm for life A purposefully small boarding prep school for boys aged 4-13 | Boxmoor, Hertfordshire Contact: 01442 256143 www.westbrookhay.co.uk London Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RF An outstanding Independent Prep School for boys and girls aged 3-13 years Happiness, Confidence, Success OPEN MORNING Saturday 1st October, 2022 9:30am – 12:30pm
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According to NHS UK, concerning signs to look out for can include:
If you have tried self-help strategies such as mindfulness, calming apps and breathing techniques and they appear not to be helping, it’s a good idea to seek professional support. Your GP, child’s form teacher or head of year should be able to point you in the right direction.
Be mindful of your own reactions and emotions. Staying calm and positive conveys the message that you are there for your child all the way.
Trouble learning. For some children, the jump to higher academic levels and the sheer volume of information they need to digest can be overwhelming.
Difficulty Interruptedconcentrating;sleepandbad dreams; Constant worrying and negative thoughts; Constant complaining of stomach aches or general malaise; Quickly becoming angry and irritable; Crying often for no apparent reason.
Poor chemistry with a teacher. Your child may complain that a particular teacher is ‘unfair’ or ‘mean.’ Remember, children know how to play a parent against a teacher. While acknowledging your child’s feelings, don’t automatically assume you’re getting the whole picture. Talk with the school to find out what’s really going
School can be a source of support and community as much as learning. It provides new experiences, exposure to different opinions, a sense of achievement, peer friendships and relationships with trusted adults. However, it can also be a lot to cope with, particularly when starting a new academic year. Children usually settle in. But what do you do if this doesn’t happen and if your child says they ‘hate’ school?
Highlight the positives. It is important not to dismiss your child’s worries; but it is equally important that children recognise the good and fun bits of their day and don’t just fixate on the negatives.
By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble
It’s important to recognise the problem and provide the right support. School ‘hatred’ can arise for various reasons:
If they have fallen out with their friends, listen to them and talk about what they are going through. Helping them to find their own solutions will build resilience and restore positive feelings about school.
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School life can create many situations that make children feel unnerved. Some degree of anxiety is normal in new or unfamiliar situations and for most it’s an essential part of a child’s emotional development. For some children, however, anxiety impacts their everyday behaviour and thoughts, interfering with their school, home and social lives.
dismissing children’s worries, let them know they are heard. If they are struggling with a certain class, help them find ways to overcome their struggles.
Anxiety. This most frequently occurs during times of family stress such as a change in the family situation or when a child is about to enter a new school or phase. It can manifest as separation anxiety.
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with insights, skills and tools to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
How you can help
Ask your child what’s worrying them and actively listen to their responses, withholding judgement and advice and validating their feelings.
Bullying. If your child seems quiet and anxious, has few school friends or suddenly shows a drop in self-esteem, bullying may be a factor. Ask your child’s school to keep an eye out. If bullying is happening, the school will need to put strategies in place to support your child.
Problem solve together by discussing coping strategies, ideally led by them.
Create a ‘worry box’ or journal with your child. Sometimes the problem will feel less extreme in black and white.
Reach out to the school – it may suggest counselling to support your child.
Seeking other help
Loneliness. Making new friends can be difficult and children often fall out for no obvious reason. This can have a direct effect on self-esteem and turn into a dislike of school. Children who always feel alone will often feign illness to avoid school and school-related activities.
Set a daily routine. It can help children regulate their emotions and alleviate concerns about the unknown. It can also help children feel more control over their environment.
What to do if your child ‘hates’ school
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Educate your child
Here is an example.
With time and practice (and a sprinkling of patience), you can make a positive psychological connection to this distraction, which is further embedded every time it is used and helps shift your child’s focus from their anxiety.
Take charge of the situation
Helping your child with panic attacks
The distraction you create could be in the form of a favourite toy or game which you engage your child with, a photograph of a happy event and a chat about this event or even petting their hamster or another beloved pet. Equally, a distraction could be a song that they are familiar with, which you can encourage them to join in. The breathing technique described above may also act as a distraction.
Panic attacks can be crippling but knowledge is power. Young people can be anxious about a range of issues at once, some of which may not seem logical. For instance, many children feel self-conscious and believe that people are judging or laughing at them, despite having no evidence of this. When they have a panic attack, some children may even believe that they are dying. Tell them they are not alone. Clarifying that panic attacks are common and normalising them can help children feel less isolated, abnormal or damaged. Teach your child that despite how it feels, these episodes aren’t dangerous or life-threatening. Reassure them that panic attacks are finite; they will always end.
During a panic attack, your child will feel like they are losing control. It’s imperative to maintain equanimity and fight our impulses to show our own distress and anxiety. We need to model calmness by taking charge of the situation and not dramatising or over-medicalising it. Talk to your child in a gentle and reassuring voice and remind them that the panic attack will be over soon. This will make them feel safer and they might model your behaviour, which could quickly pull them out of the sinking quicksand of panic.
Dr Sohom Das is a forensic psychiatrist and author of In Two Minds: Stories of Murder, Justice and Recovery from a Forensic Psychiatrist. He is also host of the YouTube channel A Psych for Sore Minds.
You can help to shift your child’s focus from anxiety and fear to something more comforting. You can even create a safety blanket in their minds. This helps to pull them out of their temporary intense and frightening experience and back into the familiar world around them.
HEALTH
If your child gets panicky in public, you start with simply discussing a trip to the park. Later this technique could involve taking increasingly longer trips outside into incrementally busier environments. This should help your child to gradually come to realise that their fears are irrational.
Breathe!
Or you could engage your child in a favourite childhood memory or recite silly tongue-twisters together.
Distract your child
Confront their fears
It’s possible to use a watered-down version of this at home with your child. Here is an example
If your child suffers panic attacks in specific scenarios or situations, it is very tempting to try to avoid or remove these from their lives. Although this is an effective short-term fix, there is a risk that this may develop into a phobia over time. It’s unrealistic to assume that they can avoid these triggers forever and you might not be around the next time they face this fear. Sometimes, it is better to nip these issues in the bud.
Like all parents, I don’t like to see my own children suffering and, as a psychiatrist, my heart goes out to youngsters who come to me for help with panic attacks. However, there are proven strategies that can be used to help support loved ones in this situation. Here are five of my top tips.
Panic attacks can cause hyperventilation, resulting in lightheadedness, fainting and even chest pains. In turn, this triggers the downward spiral of further anxiety. Encouraging your child to slow their breathing should relieve the physical symptoms and interrupt the cycle. Ask your child to breathe in through their nose for three seconds, hold their breath for three seconds, then exhale completely and fully for three seconds. This assists physiologically and can also act as a distraction. Once they become proficient at this, they can add it to their toolbox for the next time they are having a panic attack, even if you aren’t there.
A very effective therapy for full blown phobias is ‘systematic desensitisation with relaxation and graded exposure.’ This involves gradual and controlled exposure to fearful elements, alongside relaxation strategies.
By Dr Sohom Das
There’s a Dog in My Brain by Caroline Green, illustrated by Rikin Parekh
The children of Wigley Primary love having Noodle the Doodle at school and are thrilled that he’s coming on the class trip to the seaside. But will Noodle be on his best behaviour or will the day end in chaos? Perfect for young dog-lovers.
Panda at the Door written and illustrated by Sarah Horne
Velda the Awesomest Viking and the Voyage of Deadly Doom by David MacPhail, illustrated by Richard Morgan
Pudding the Panda of Edinburgh Zoo really wants a family to take care of, just like her heroine, Mary Poppins. When 9 year old Callum is given a certificate to adopt a panda for his birthday, the two come together... and pandemonium ensues!
Dragon Storm by Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Eric Deschamps and Ben Mantle
When Jada Jinks finds a box of magic tricks in her granny’s flat, she uncovers her granny’s secret dream of becoming a magician. Inspired by the first Black woman to be admitted to the Magic Circle, this is a fun, inclusive and magical story, with tricks!
Noodle the Doodle by Jonathan Meres, illustrated by Katy Halford
Tomas can’t believe it when a mysterious stranger invites him to join a secret society and tells him that he has a very special power… he can summon his very own dragon! With a medieval setting and a strong dose of fantasy, this is the first in a thrilling new series.
The Tindims of Rubbish Island by Sally Gardner, illustrated by Lydia Correy
The first in a new series exploring our impact on the environment. Meet Captain Spoons, Mug, Jug, Brew, Skittle and friends, all residents of Rubbish Island, which the inventive Tindims have built entirely from thrown away items.
Sarah Campbell is co-founder of Parrot Street Book Club (www.parrotstreet.com), an award-winning monthly subscription book club for children ages 5 to 14. Each subscription box includes a brand new book plus an activity pack inspired by that particular book.
BOOKSBrilliant first chapter books for early readers
By Sarah Campbell
Velda might be small but she is certainly mighty. Nothing will stop her from taking to the high seas to earn her place on the dragon ship Valkyrie, along with a wonderful, colourful cast of characters.
Get ready for aliens, jam, doughnuts, snails, one dastardly villain and a brilliant kid fizzing with ideas! Young inventor Scooter and his alien buddy Fizzbee team up to outwit Daffy Dodgy in a hilarious new adventure.
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Alien in the Jam Factory by Chrissie Sains, illustrated by Jenny Taylor
When your child is ready to move on from picture books, there are some wonderful first chapter books aimed at children ages 5 to 9. Many are highly illustrated, with stories that will last over the course of a few reading sessions. Here are some of our recent favourites, all available through your friendly local independent store or www.bookshop.org.
The Marvellous Granny Jinks and Me by Serena Patel, illustrated by Selom Sunu
When Danny made a wish to stay home instead of going to a family wedding, he didn’t expect to end up trapped in the body of a dog. Meanwhile, Dudley the dog is off on the adventure of a lifetime. He might look like a normal 10 year old boy, but can he behave like one?
Tips for kids ages 2 to 5
If your older child does nothing to help when you ask them to clear up, try to keep calm rather than raising your voice. Keep your voice low and get down on their level. Say that it’s tidy-up time as a statement, not a request. Afterwards, thank them for their help.
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Getting children to tidy up
It can be useful to schedule clean-up time at the same time every day, such as the interval just before a mealtime, to establish a habit.
Evenoverwhelming.teenagers
When your child helps you pick up their playthings after a busy play session, you are on the right path.
Playtime, particularly messy play, is vital to children’s development because it helps them understand how the world works, as well as using their senses and imagination. But it shouldn’t stop there; tidying up is a great opportunity to help children develop cognitive skills, like sorting.
Tips for kids ages 6 to 9
What’s more, asking them to transition back to a reality in which they are no longer in control can feel like a physical and mental wrench. To help ease this, while your child is still playing, give them advance notice that it will soon be time to wrap up. Try something like: ‘One more game with your dinosaurs and then we can put them to sleep in their normal house (the toy box) until tomorrow.’ Just telling a child generally to tidy up can feel
Bear in mind that if a child has been playing a fantasy game, they will be really proud of the little world they have created. So while your request to tidy up is perfectly reasonable, they may hear it as a request to destroy what they have just made.
Make tidying up fun by putting on music and setting a time limit, so small children see it as a game they are playing with you. To make the task more achievable, as well as helping to develop their sorting skills, you could also suggest picking up just one type of toy at a time. Try something like: ‘You pick up all the blocks while I pick up all the crayons.’
As soon as they make a start, acknowledge how your child is helping so they have the confidence to keep it up. Once the kids are as quick as you, try turning tidying up into a race. Schedule clean-up time at the same time every day, such as the interval just before mealtime, to establish a habit.
Finally it helps to reframe your expectations. A family home doesn’t have to be a show place. See tidying up at the end of the day as a sign your child has explored the limits of their imagination to the full.
Tanith Carey is a parenting writer. With clinical psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin, she is co-author of What’s My Child Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents, published by DK which is filled with practical tips for raising children ages 2 to 7.
What parent or carer hasn’t felt weary at the sight of yet more trucks, play figures, crayons and LEGO® bricks to pick up at the end of the day?
By Tanith Carey
Helpafterwards.littleones who are not yet reading by colour coding the storage for different categories; soft toys, trucks etc. Alternatively, label their toy boxes with pictures they can recognise.
Explain the advantages. By tidying up, they will have space to run around, their toys are safe from harm and they’ll know where to find them again tomorrow.
may not know where to start with tidying up, so little children will definitely need a helping hand. Make it clear it’s a job you will start together and then be specific about the tasks you want them to do.
The first step to teaching children to help tidy up is to understand how ‘mess’ looks from their point of view.
When a child is absorbed and ‘in the flow’ of an imaginative game it makes perfect sense to have all their materials and playthings spread out all around them. While it may look like chaos to us, having everything at hand means a child can stretch their creativity by using all the different items around them in new combinations.
Help young children learn that toys have homes where they live when they are not played with and have the storage accessible at ground level. Try some containers on wheels which they can push to the area they need to tidy up and which they can ‘park’
Baking shortbread and scones is simple enough for inexperienced bakers to try and hopefully they will taste great! Baking bread is also surprisingly simple and you and your children can have lots of fun creating different animals out of the dough to then bake in the oven.
Here are a few activities that are easy to set up if you need to keep the kids entertained this half term or you’re stuck at home during a rainy weekend. You probably have most of what you need at home already.
HALF
Isabell Fisher is co-founder of Little Hands Learning, an educational and eco-friendly subscription box for children ages 3 to 6. For more ideas, visit www.littlehandslearning.co.uk/activities
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Children love to paint but the mess can fill many parents with dread. Instead of using poster paint, try using watercolour paints which are easier to clean up. To change things up, get the kids painting on coffee filters, a canvas or ice cubes.
Design a board game
Easy experimentsscience
This is a fun way for kids to learn about design and teamwork. All you need is a piece of paper, some pens, some counters (maybe toy figures), some dice and some rules. Involve your children in working out how the game works and create and decorate your board before playing!
It’s important that children are tech-savvy but there is very little evidence that screentime contributes to a child’s cognitive ability. Screens are so appealing because of their continually changing content so any activities that we attempt at home with the kids need to be equally appealing to little hands, eyes and brains.
Playdough
Painting
This is a versatile toy but if the smell and texture of big-branded playdough is something you’re not keen on, there are some wonderful options for soft and scented playdough that doesn’t leave a greasy residue. Just check that the playdough has been UKCA tested before buying.
This doesn’t need to be overly complicated. Often keeping it simple is far better than creating something elaborate. Try making a paper boat and see how far it travels or create tealight holders out of old jam jars by gluing on pieces of tissue paper. These also make lovely presents for grandparents.
Baking
Screen-freeTERM rainy day activities
By Isabell Fisher
Boosted books
Treasure hunt
Reading to your kids is great but don’t limit the experience to sitting on the sofa. If the book is set in a cave, evict the vacuum cleaner from under the stairs and issue everyone with head torches! If you’re reading a desert adventure, create a Bedouin tent using some sheets and your clothes horse.
Choose something to be the treasure, hide it and then create a map for your kids to follow. Make it more interesting (and last longer) by having the map lead your little pirates to different locations where each location’s ‘treasure’ is a clue to the next location. To make the map look more ‘authentic,’ scrunch up the paper and stain it with a damp teabag.
There are lots of easy science experiments that can be tried at home with household items and they encourage kids to ask questions, make predictions and understand the world around them. Try making a lava lamp with water, food colouring and oil in a jar. Add an effervescent tablet and watch what happens!
Art and craft
The simple act of putting one foot in front of the other and the rhythmic cadence of your steps can get you into the magical ‘flow’ state that many artists, writers and creators talk about.
On top of this, we also know that exercising in nature is not only good for our physical health but also our mental health. By boosting mood and energy, you are helping to improve your Letcreativity.nature
Claire Winter is a journalist, ICF coach, speaker and awardwinning podcaster who loves being out in nature. She works to help women connect back to nature, ignite their creativity and share their stories. Read more at www.creatrixjourney. com or follow @thecreatrixjourney on Instagram.
Nurtured by nature
Continue to notice your breathing. Is it slow or fast? How has it changed since you started the walk?
Mindful walking in nature has taken a step further with the introduction of forest bathing workshops.
Taking inspiration from nature
Being creatively blocked can feel incredibly frustrating, timeconsuming and ultimately, can lead to a lack of motivation.
In another study, researchers in Finland found that urban dwellers who strolled for as little as twenty minutes through an urban park or woodland reported significantly more stress relief than those who strolled in a city centre.
Simply going for a walk is surprisingly effective. A study from Stanford University found that walking boosted creativity by sixty percent, compared to subjects who were sedentary. The great German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche claimed that all great ideas came from walking. So, what is it about walking that helps our brains switch into a creative mode?
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or creatively blocked, take yourself out for a mindful walk in nature and see what inspiration you can bring back to your desk.
Set out with a small notebook or use voice notes on your phone to record any insights. If you have to take your phone with you, switch it to do not disturb mode and ignore the screen.
How do you spark your creativity when you are feeling uninspired or busy? For me, creativity is as essential as breathing for a happy and fulfilling life. But when and how do you get inspired?
Walk it out
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Herts 13 WORK
While walking on a treadmill can work, walking in the great outdoors is more powerful to clear the mind, get inspired and come up with new creative ideas.
Start to notice the woodland and nature around you. Even towns have leafy gardens and birdcalls when you pay enough attention! Start tapping into all your senses. How does it sound? How does it feel? What does it smell like? What does it look like? How do you imagine things taste? What does the movement around you feel like outside your body and inside it?
If you are distracted, take a moment to ground yourself and connect to your environment. Stand still, root your feet into the ground and take three deep breaths.
When you come back from your walk, stay in the refreshed zone. Write down all your creative thoughts straightaway to give yourself inspired starting points.
While creative blocks can happen to everyone sometimes, there are ways to overcome them. A powerful tool to help you get creative is spending time in nature.
By Claire Winter
Mindful walking
Here’s the science bit: trees release a chemical called phytoncides which have an antimicrobial effect on human bodies; this can, in turn, boost the immune system.
Forest bathing, or ‘shirrin-yoku’, was first developed in the 1980s following studies by the Japanese government. The benefits are said to be numerous. Results showed that two hours of mindful exploration in a forest or wood could reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol levels and improve concentration and memory. The Japanese government thought the benefits were so great that they introduced it as a national health programme.
When you are in the rut of daily chores, creative inspiration can feel non-existent. Perhaps current news events or the relentlessness of family life are making you feel stuck. Creative blocks can arise for many different reasons; maybe a work issue, fear of failure or self-doubt are standing in your way.
As we spend more time indoors and online, this is a timely reminder of the value of stopping the scroll and spending twenty minutes walking in nature.
nurture you! Your over-thinking mind will clear when you take a walk, consciously seeking out greenery and clouds, listening to the sounds around you and breathing fresh air.
DANCE
unlock a love of learning with Explore Learning. Awardwinning tuition in maths and English. Visit local centres or learn online. For tuition that goes beyond the grade, and with over 20 years’ experience, look no further than Explore Learning.
CAMP campbeaumont.co.ukBEAUMONT
Hitchin and Hertford: Sensory and creative dance classes specifically for those with suspected or diagnosed additional needs. Imagine and Move: suitable for children who need to improve their social skills and awareness of self and others (age guidance 3-6, £4). Magic Movers: Perfect for those who love to dance and express themselves! (age guidance 7+, £6.50). Call 07394 934911 for more information, or email imaginationarts@yahoo.cominfo.
IMAGINATIONtrial.
THE HUB ON VERULAM 5 & 5a Verulam Road, St Albans venueentertainmentThisthehubonverulam.comfresh,multi-layeredandleisurehasquicklybecome a popular spot in the St Albans social scene. From live music to community events and independent cinema, there’s always something different going on. The venue hosts pop-ups too and Baby Club screenings showing Disney and Pixar classics. Food served all day. Open seven days a week, 10am10pm (6pm Sundays).
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. Call 07824883853 or email info@kmdt.co.uk for more information or to book a free
GWEN HALAM informationRickmansworth.Hempstead,SessionsschoolSTEMAwesomewww.awesome-engineers.comAWESOME07792309401.TotheywatchchildwhereandtakingfromclassesExcitingHarpendenwww.ghdance.comDANCEandRedbourn:pre-schooldanceforboysandgirls18monthsto4yearsplaceinHarpendenRedbourn.Chooseaclassyoucanaccompanyyouranddancetogether,thentheirconfidencegrowasventureintoclassalone.bookafreetrialclasscallENGINEERSEngineersrunsessionsforprimarychildrenusingLEGO.areinStAlbans,HemelHarpendenandFormorevisitwebsite.
Confidencewww.perform.org.ukPERFORMbuilding weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, ofstudentsspeechHarpenden-basedwww.strivedrama.co.ukSTRIVE15andbuildingchildhoodandbaby’scoveringorsession0-6tailoredandHarpenden:www.6WeekSocial.co.ukPOSTNATALandandSessionssinging,too!sign...yourTherewww.singandsign.co.ukBABYdivineyoga143@gmail.comCallmovementmindsetcreateyogaKentonandHindochaYogawww.divineyoga143.comDIVINE/andGardenAlbans,perform.org.uk/try.obligationEveryconcentrationcommunication,andcoordination.childcantryafreeno-class,visitwww.Venues:StHarpenden,WelwynCity,BishopsStortfordBroxbourne.02072559120enquiries@perform.org.ukYOGAclassesdeliveredbyDivyatochildren,familiesschools,inBorehamwood,andelsewhere.Divya’sempowerschildrentoahappyandpositivethroughmindfulandcreativegames.07791570222oremailSINGANDSIGNaresomanybenefitsforchildfromlearningtobabyandyougainanewskillTheseclassesareallaboutsigningandhavingfun!inStAlbans,HarpendenRedbourn.Formoreinfotobookvisitwebsite.SESSIONSSix-weekmotherbabycoursesespeciallyformumswithbabiesmonthsofage.Eachishostedbyapostnatalwomen’shealthspecialistmatterssuchassleep,pelvichealthc-sectionrecovery,earlyillnessandmore–confidence,knowledgeself-care.StartingThursdaySeptember.DRAMAStriveisaanddramaschoolwhereworkthrougharangeLAMDAsyllabusesincluding:
CLUBS, CLASSES & CAMPS
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
Seeexplorelearning.co.ukLEARNINGyourchildprogress
With Strive’s no pressure approach, students get the most out of the classes, while learning vital drama skills needed for exams. Strive for progress not perfection! To book a free trial contact Suzie on 07841018333 or 07913323608.space.andyearssummerReplayStREPLAYpqacademy.com.freeagedchildrentuitionoutstandingofTheAct,pqacademy.comPAULINEsuzie@strivedrama.co.ukQUIRKEACADEMYdance,singandmakefilms!PaulineQuirkeAcademyPerformingArtsprovidesperformingartseveryweekendforandyoungpeople4-18yearsold.BookatastersessionbyvisitingHOLIDAYCLUBAlbansisafabulousEasterandclubforchildren4to11old.Lotsoffunactivitiescrafts,indoorandoutdoorFormoreinfocall
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PLACES TO GO
public speaking, acting, musical theatre and more.
KMDT SELF DEFENCE CLASSES
Holiday camp fun for 3-16 year Campolds.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 socialselevenplusexams.co.uk8204moreandmockrevision,LearningabooksonlineServicestheserevise,sheddingprocessesexamsfortoinception,almostbeenwebsiteUK’sElevenPlusExamswww.elevenplusexams.co.ukELEVENPLUSEXAMScampbeaumont.co.ukisthelargestfreeadvisoryforthe11+andhastutoringstudentsfortwodecades.Sinceitsitsgoalhasbeenrevolutionisepreparationselectiveschoolentrancebydemystifyingtheofadmissionandbylightonhowbesttopractiseandlearnfortypesoftests.includein-personand11+tuition,practiceforexampreparation,comprehensiveVirtualEnvironmentforin-personandonlineexamssatbythousands,alivelyonlineforum.Forinformationcall0205060,email11plus@,and@ElevenPlusExams.
HALLOWEEN AT THE WOODMAN moreallservescocktails!classic,adultsoncepopcornrelaxedfriendlytheatre,beFromthisandshowingThewww.thewoodman-inn.co.ukNuthampstead,INNRoystonWoodmanInnwillbeHalloweenmoviesfunforthewholefamilyOctober(Saturday29th).midday,themarqueewilltransformedintoamovieshowingafamily-Halloweenmovieinaenvironment.Expectandpumpkins!Butthesunhasset,thecanwatchaHalloweencompletewithTheWoodmanInndeliciousfoodanddrinkday,sourcedlocally.Fordetailsvisitwebsite.
KNEBWORTH HOUSE Knebworth, SG3 craftsClassicVikingfarm.tollhousea30MuseumExplorewww.coam.org.ukBucks,NewlandCHILTERNparkvenue,atactivitiesLotsbetter.org.uk/goslingGardenStanboroughGOSLINGtheWalk.surroundingsassometoFundogofandKnebworthfriendlyThe10Dogfestwww.knebworthhouse.com6PY&11Sepnation’sfavouritedog-festivalwillbeturningHouseintoadogdogloversparadise!Lotshave-a-goactivitiesfromdivingtoagility,entertheDogShowforyourchancewinBestInShow,orraisemoneyforDogsTrustyouadmireyourstunningontheBigDogSensationaldogdisplaysinmainarena,andmuchmore!SPORTSPARKRoad,WelwynCityofsportsandfitnesstogetinvolvedwiththisstunningmulti-purposeincludingatrampolineandsoftplay.OPENAIRMUSEUMPark,GorelandsLane,ChilternOpenAiranddiscoveroverhistoricbuildingsincluding1940sprefab,VictorianandworkinghistoricSpecialeventsincludeRaid,Garden’sDay,VehicleShow,andfamilyandactivities.
and
EXPLORE
CELTIC of100Just7TerryGeraldstoriesAEveryStorytimeorg.ukwww.rhodesbishopsstortford.Stortford,1-3SOUTHpriceactivities,aPumpkinPick15-31Pumpkinwww.willowsactivityfarm.comCoursersWILLOWSghoulishcarvingpumpkinspookyOctoberVisit24-28Halloweenwww.standalonefarm.comCityWilburySTANDALONEmoreorthemustattractionsofParadisewww.pwpark.comWhitePARADISEinopen-airCelticinother.HarmonyandWithcelticharmony.orgBrickendonHARMONYLane,Brickendonitsthatchedroundhousesnativewoodland,CelticisaplacelikenoEnjoyafamilydayoutauniqueoutdoorsettingatHarmonyCamp,asmallmuseum,withlocatedbeautifulnativewoodland.WILDLIFEPARKStubbsLane,BroxbourneWildlifeParkhassomethemosttheamazinganimalandactivities.Ticketsbebookedinadvance.Visitwebsite,call01992470490emailinfo@pwpark.comforinformation.FARMRd,LetchworthGardenPumpkinCarvingOctStandaloneFarmthishalf-termforsomefun!Pickyourperfectandgetcreativeacreepyfaceorascene.Bookonline.ACTIVITYFARMRd,StAlbansFestivalOctapumpkinatWillowsPatch,takepartinpumpkinhuntandotherallincludedintheofyourentranceticket.MILLARTSSouthRoad,Bishop’sCM233JGattheMuseum1stWednesdayofmonthfreeevent.Funchildren’saboutapetdinosaurandtheGiraffe.Deary’sTwistedTalesOct(7pm)threeactorsperformoverrolesinasmanyminutesfact-based,fast-pacedfun!
Various craft activities including special Halloween themed crafts on the 29th. Four Under-5s. The Amazing Bubble Man 23 Oct (2pm)
BEEZEE BODIES signHoddesdonHemelBorehamwood,apply.informative!life.thatchangesmakingforHealthyfamilies/beezeebodies.com/for-(HEALTH)lifestyleprogrammesfamiliesthatsupportinhealthierlifelongindietandexercisearesuitedtotheirrealFun,interactiveandEligibilitycriteriaSessionsinWelwyn,Stevenage,Hempstead,StAlbans,andHitchin.Toup,call01707248648.KIDSRECORDINGPARTIESone2onerecording.comStarinyourownpopsong,danceandvideoatOne2OnestudiosatTheOval,Stevenage.Enjoya2-hourpartyandprofessionalaudioandvideorecording.ThebestrecordingpartyexperienceinHertfordshire!Pricesstartfromonly£235.Forallages.Contact07985441608/sales@one2onerecording.comforfurtherdetails.
her
SANDPIT THEATRE St. Albans, AL4 hasarrivesLittle28FriendsLittlewww.sandpittheatre.co.uk9NXRedRidingHoodandOct(11.30am)RedRidingHood’sfriendtotellusthestorybutaproblem,thereareno
Lytton Way, Join(25Milkshakewww.gordon-craig.co.ukStevenageLiveOct,12pm,2.30pm)Paddington,Daisy&
The Dark Room Kids 29 Oct (2pm)
OnWe 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
Louis Pearl explores the breathtaking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized.
are back and more explosive than ever! Join the presenters as they dive deep into the world of science and look at how science shapes the modern world we live in with a few loud bangs along the way!
Mr Pimm, a Victorian school teacher, battles against all odds to teach his pesky pupils a thing or two with hilarious consequences in the quest to discover, ‘can the past really tell the future?’ Age: 4+ Kids Craft Activities 23, 25 & 29 Oct
parents and Bingo the dog are going to throw her the best party ever, complete with a terrific treasure hunt, sensational sing-along songs and lots of fantastic games, including Molly’s favourite game, “I Spy With My Little Eye!” Based on the brand new picture book by Steven Lee this fantastic family musical celebrates everything great about being a kid – and everything great about having one. For Under 5s. Tickets
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Herts 15
STEVENAGE MUSEUM
pages in the book! There is lots of participation in this theatre show, with the audience becoming Cinderella’s backing band, auditioning to be wolves, helping Red Riding Hood’s dad cut down trees and dancing a conga. Tickets £7/£5.
THE ERIC MORECOMBE LeytonCENTRERoad, For18Ithe-emc.co.ukHarpendenSpyWithMyLittleEyeSep(2.30pm)Molly’ssixthbirthday
dances with your favourite Milkshake! friends and watch as the music, lights, costumes and the stage brings Milkshake! to THElife.RADLETT
WYLLYOTTS THEATRE 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 The28Ministrywyllyottstheatre.co.uk3JGofScienceLiveOct(12noon)UK’sfavouritescience team
What’s
GORDON£12.50.
CENTRE
CRAIG THEATRE
St George’s Way, (27andO’Keeffe–Giant2-3pm)26-28Halfchildgov.uktoPleasedifferenttheirfunStories,15Under2-3pm.sessionsFree17Familystevenage-museumwww.stevenage.gov.uk/StevenageSaturdaysSep&8Octdrop-inartsandcraftsat11am-12noonandForages2-8. 5sSep&20Oct(1.30-2.30pm)gamesandartandcraftforchildrenunder5andcarers,basedaroundapicturebookeachtime.calloremailthemuseumbook;museum@stevenage.,01438218881.£2.50per(£1concessions)TermactivitiesOct(11am-12noon,plantdrawingworkshopaddyourarttoourGeorgiaexhibition(26th).Skullsbonesdrawingworkshopth).Spook-tacularHalloweencrafts(28th).Forages3-12.£4perchild(£2concessions).Pleasecalloremailthemuseumtobook;museum@stevenage.gov.uk,01438218881.
THEATRE
Ollie, Milo, Noddy, Pip and Posy, Blue’s Clues and You! And of course Milkshake! Monkey for an unforgettable family time at Milkshake Monkey’s Musical! Learn the amazing songs and
This one man/multiple victim contestant interactive game show is a cult-hit worldwide: it turns out kids love yelling, violence, and computer games. Parents love the nostalgia of the 8-bit graphics and letting the kids know what it feels like to be on the receiving end of a barrage of unreasonable demands for a change. A cult hit, super fun, fear-filled interactive adventure like no other. It’s bonkers fun for all the family! Tickets £8.
1 Aldenham Avenue, SingfavouriteallTrainorGrande,artistssoundtrackthewhofabulousmusicalPrincessesA24Popwww.radlettcentre.co.ukRadlettPrincessesSep(2pm)MagicalshowwherebeautifulbecomePopStars!AspectacularstarringfourfairytalePrincessesjustlovetosing!It’sperfectmix.FeaturingaoftoppophitsfromsuchasLittleMix,ArianaTaylorswift.MeghanandMileyCyrus,plusthebestsongsfromallyourfilmsandmusicals.alongtoallyourfavourites!
OTHER LISTINGS
Familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Herts16 Magazine Apply at familiesmag.co.uk/go Enter the Action Heroes universe!*whilestockslastStylesmayvaryT&CsapplyGet your FREE mini-figure set NOW* Mix & match body parts & worldsthemedbuildandCollectexpressionsfacialchange FOR CHILDREN AGED 6 WEEKS TO 5 YEARS OPEN 7.30AM TO 6.30PM 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. T: 01707 392999 E: hertfordbarns.nursery@childbase.com Hertford Barns Day Nursery, Cole Green, Hertford, SG14 2NL T: 01582 792060 E: @childbase.comnurseryonthegreen.redbourn Nursery on the Green, South Common, Redbourn, Hertfordshire, AL3 7NG www.childbasepartnership.com registrationstakingNow WE LOOK FORWARD TO HEARING FROM YOU
