Families Hertfordshire January/February 2023 Digital

Happy New Year from all of us here at Families!

It’s hard for everyone to keep New Year’s resolutions – especially children. Download our free colour-in Reward Chart which may help to keep your children engaged.

Whilst everyone feels like hibernating in winter, getting outside is good for us so, to motivate you, we’ve got some ideas for seasonal family activities as well as some projects which will help welcome more wildlife to your garden. And, once you’re back indoors? We have some great ideas for making family nights in special.

In this issue we also have Britannica Magazine subscriptions and other goodies to giveaway! Apply inside the magazine. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Put a spring in your child’s step with Perform

Happy spring term! Perform confidence-building classes are sure to blow away the winter cobwebs and will help children feel energised and inspired.

This term sees 4-7s trapezing and somersaulting into a Circus Adventure whilst 7-12s work on a fun and funky adaptation of Robin Hood, in Outlaw. Imaginations will soar as children work towards a magical performance for family and friends.

Perform classes have a special emphasis on child development, using a mix of drama, dance and singing. Run by experienced actorteachers, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration. With all abilities welcome, children can join at any point in the term and will take part in the performance.

Classes in Broxbourne, Harpenden, Hertford, Hitchin, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, Royston, St Albans, Welwyn Garden City. For more information visit website to find your nearest venue and book a free class, or call 020 7255 9120, email enquiries@ perform.org.uk.

Wear a Hat for a better future!

Wear A Hat Day, an iconic and fun annual event, is one of the UK’s most popular and familyfriendly charitable fundraisers and it’s happening again on Friday 31 March!

Running for more than ten years, this event raises millions for vital research into brain tumours – the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40.

Wear A Hat Day events help children explore their individuality and creativity, whilst learning to work together and think of others – in a really fun way. www.wearahatday.org

For more on Wear A Hat Day turn to page 20.

A BETTER FUTURE STARTS HERE JUST DON’T FORGET YOUR HATS

Help young minds thrive, fund vital research, and give hope to those in need.

www.wearahatday.org

Getting the best from online tutoring

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

SATS: getting in the know

By Jessica Joan

With Covid and the move to online platforms, tutoring has become more accessible, with more options and opportunities available. As a result, over fifteen percent of UK children are now receiving private tuition. But how can you get the best results?

READ MORE

Shared reading and language development

By Dr Jamie Lingwood

In May, Year 2 (KS1) and Year 6 (KS2) pupils will take their SATS exams. Yet, from their very first day at school, children are being trained to be able to perform in preparation for these assessments. So what support can you give at home?

READ MORE

Early language development is incredibly important and sitting down to read with your child gives them a big advantage in this area. But what are the best ways of helping your child to enjoy shared reading and why is it so beneficial?

READ MORE

Top children’s book picks for 2023

Plan some great reading for your child with our children’s book suggestions, all just published or due to be published this year.

DJ Baby Funky novelty board book featuring spinning record turntables! Ages 1+.

Ten Little Bugs Part traditional counting rhyme, part fun-filled story - perfect for sharing. Ages 3-5.

Grandad’s Pride

Beautiful follow-up to Grandad’s Camper, filled with heart and purpose. Ages 3-6.

The Library Fish Learns to Read

Charming picture book about the unusually literary fish. Ages 4-8.

Weird but true! 2023

National Geographic annual loaded with brain bending facts and photos. Ages 7-10.

A Dragon Realm Adventure

Special World Book Day story (£1) in the actionpacked series. Ages 8+.

Dave Pigeon Bookshop Mayhem

Special World Book Day story (£1) - a funny, joyful romp. Ages 6+.

Valentine Crow & Mr Death

Distinctive, warm and funny. From highlyacclaimed Jenni Spangler. Ages 9+.

Yetis are the Worst!

Gilbert the Goblin’s new adventure – finding the legendary yeti. Ages 4-8.

Tackling toddler tantrums

By Sarah Ockwell-Smith

The ‘terrible twos’ aren’t called that for nothing! This stage of a child’s life is all about big feelings. Scientifically, it relates to the undeveloped prefrontal brain cortex meaning a child is unable to regulate their own emotions.

What is a tantrum?

Tantrums describe the state of an individual who is out of control, full of big emotions and stress hormones and unable to calm themselves down. Tantrums can happen right into adulthood but adults learn to self-soothe.

Toddlers don’t possess these skills yet. They are not being naughty or manipulative, they are simply being toddlers. Tantrums are a normal and exceedingly common feature of child development. Research has found that nearly nine in ten children between 18 months and 2 years regularly have tantrums, with most having at least one a day, lasting on average between thirty and sixty seconds (although it is not uncommon for them to occur far more frequently and last for much longer).

‘No’ to the naughty step

Contrary to popular belief, ignoring, shaming or punishing tantrums can make a toddler’s behaviour much worse. These approaches ignore a child’s difficult underlying feelings and don’t resolve the cause

or help the toddler regulate their behaviour. Experts have discovered just how much infant brains are affected by the level of parental care they receive. With nurturing attention, the part of their brains responsible for regulating emotion become better connected as they grow. READ MORE

Dangerous things (you should let your child do)

Let them experience ‘age-appropriate risk’ under adult supervision AT ALL TIMES. Research shows that it’s essential for a balanced childhood.

Use power tools

The use of a power tool is an important life skill that is good to learn early.

Spend an hour blindfolded

Challenge your child to live blindfolded – it’s fun and builds empathy.

Play with fire

It’s best children learn about fire safely with you.

Throw rocks

Children can’t resist throwing - and it can be managed safely.

Use a pocketknife

A life skill that develops with experience, whittling is a fun introduction.

Climb a tree

Another irresistible urge for children - fun and beneficial when done safely.

Blow up a bottle of coke

A classic science experiment which is spectacular - but messy!

Play conkers

This ancient British game can be safely played if done correctly.

Use a bow and arrow

Though potentially hazardous, it’s great for developing situational awareness.

Family meals made easier

What is batch cooking?

Cooking multiple meals at one time and then storing for later use.

Food is cooked in a ‘batch’, then stored in airtight containers. Meals are stored in portions for ease.

Batch cooking often involves doubling, tripling or quadrupling ingredients.

What you need

Big pans - you’re cooking bulk so ensure you have enough big pans to cope.

Large mixing bowls to bring all those ingredients together.

Storage containers and resealable freezer bags. Choose the right size for your family.

Labels. Keep track of what you’ve got and when you cooked it.

Intro to batch cooking

Benefits of batch cooking

Saves money - buying food in bulk is cheaper. Saves time – you don’t need to cook every evening.

You are cooking when you want to and not when you have to.

It’s healthier as you always have a tasty nutritious meal on hand.

Top tips

Set aside a few hours so you’re not rushed.

Prepare ingredients - weighing, measuring and chopping first will make the job easier.

Clean as you go and, if making several recipes at once, tidy up as you go too.

Cool before you freeze; food will keep better and save fridge energy.

Meal planning

This 2 minute video from The Batch Lady shows exactly what you’ll need to start batch cooking freezer meals.

This short video from The Batch Lady offers a great rundown on how to plan weekly meals for your family.

Best

cooking recipes

Macaroni

New online children’s physio directory

Parents wanting to locate a local children’s physiotherapist can now use an online directory launched by Association of Paediatric Chartered Physiotherapists.

The majority of children’s physiotherapists work in the NHS. Your GP can advise about local services and make a referral, if appropriate. However, some parents choose to seek advice and treatment from an independent or private physiotherapist either instead of, or to supplement, NHS care. Many children need support from a physiotherapist at some time during their childhood. This may be sought for advice and treatment relating to posture and movement or for acute injuries.

Qualified children’s physiotherapists are regulated, have additional expertise in child development and childhood conditions and the right skill base and knowledge to deliver the best care for babies and children. Find out more HERE

Managing children’s anxiety

Be fully present

Phone alerts and notifications are constantly distracting and family members often have to compete. Being fully present with the activity or conversation we’re having with our children - without distraction - demonstrates that we value ‘real’ time together and are fully available.

Avoid fuelling anxiety

Limit screen time

Research shows that too much screen time can lead to mental health issues in children, whilst lost time interacting with family/ peers can impact their social development. Monitor screen time, ensure content is ageappropriate, communicate about inappropriate images and model healthy device habits.

Spend time in nature

Children absorb emotions like sponges and overhearing the news or emotionally-charged adult conversation can fuel their anxiety. If your child is worrying about the future, use mindfulness to bring them back to the present moment—’right here, right now, with you, all is well.’ Tell them that you love them no matter what.

Nature-deficit disorder (NDD) can contribute to higher rates of physical and emotional illnesses. But the good news is, it can easily be reversed. Spending time in nature is easier than we think: village greens, parks, commons and nature reserves abound in the UK and they provide the perfect setting for free family activities.

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her ten top tips.

Managing children’s anxiety

Encouraging reading

Sharing feelings

Reading is relaxing, distracting and a good alternative to screen time. A 2009 University of Sussex study found that reading can reduce stress by up to sixty eight percent. Just six minutes of relaxing into a good book can lower blood pressure and muscle tension.

Can’t fall asleep?

Children are more likely to express their feelings when they sense we are fully available. Sitting somewhere that they have to pass by when they return from being elsewhere and gently inviting them to join us can be a good start. Listen intently without moving into ‘fix-it mode.’

Enrol on a course

Creating a comforting, wind down routine can help (reading a book together, listening to soothing music). Try placing hands on the belly, breathing easily and focusing on the breath, following the gentle movement of the belly that rises and falls. For the busy mind, try counting the breath to ten (in – 1, out – 2 etc) over and over.

Mindfulness apps/recorded meditations can help adults and children to relax and unwind but nothing compares with attending a course with a qualified mindfulness teacher which teaches key mindfulness skills. However, if, despite your best intentions and care, your child’s behaviour or anxiety level becomes worrying, do seek medical advice from a GP.

Claire at Bridgemaker Mindfulness shares her ten top tips.

Gwen Halam Dance

Harpenden, Redbourn 07792309401

VISIT WEBSITE

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. Call to book a free trial class call.

Divine Yoga Borehamwood, Kenton 07791570222

VISIT WEBSITE Yoga classes delivered by Divya Hindocha to children, families and schools, in Borehamwood, Kenton and elsewhere. Divya’s yoga empowers children to create a happy and positive mindset through mindful movement and creative games. divineyoga143@gmail.com

Replay Holiday Club St Albans 07913323608

Replay is a fabulous holiday club for children 4 to 11 years old. Lots of fun activities and crafts, indoor and outdoor space. Run by an enthusiastic and caring team.

The Hub on Verulum St Albans

VISIT WEBSITE

This fresh, multi-layered entertainment and leisure venue has quickly become 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.

St Albans Farmers Market –8 Jan and 12 Feb St Albans

VISIT WEBSITE

Helping local farmers, growers and producers to sell their own produce, direct to the public, the market provides fresh, safe, natural, nutritious food that you can trust. This is an extremely popular market that continues to grow. Plus, a vibrant and entertaining shopping experience in the heart of St Albans. 8am to 2pm.

Imagination Dance Hitchin, Hertford 07394 934911

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 for more information, or email info. imaginationarts@yahoo.com.

Robin Robin Adventure Trail at RSPB Rye Meads – 1 to 8 January Hoddesdon 01992 708383

VISIT WEBSITE Aardman’s festive musical tale about a young robin trying to fit in is available to watch on Netflix. Every year, Robin joins her family on a big sneak to find food to survive the winter. Join the great RSPB sneak at Rye Mead, complete fun challenges with your activity pack and celebrate your inner robin! 9am to 4.30pm.

Camp Beaumont

Berkhamsted 01603 851000

VISIT WEBSITE St Albans 01603 851000

The multi-activity holiday day camps provide fun-filled, exhilarating experiences for 3-16 year olds. From archery to swimming to abseiling, each unforgettable experience will enhance your child’s wellbeing and revitalise them for their return to school.

The Proof of the Pudding Stone: Geology & Climate Change at Hertford Museum – until 16 April Hertford 01992 582686

VISIT WEBSITE Utilising Hertford Museum’s extensive geology collection, including Hertfordshire’s native puddingstone, to help understand the past, present and future of the earth’s climate. FREE

Gosling Sports Park Welwyn Garden City

VISIT WEBSITE

Lots of sports and fitness activities to get involved with at this stunning multi-purpose venue, including a trampoline park, soft play and a dry ski slope!

Love is in Nature at Standalone Farm – 13 to 17 Feb Letchworth Garden City 01462 686775

VISIT WEBSITE

Standalone has teamed up with incredible floral designer Alice van der List to bring a unique floral workshop to the farm this Spring. The perfect opportunity to spend some creative, quality time with your child, grandchild, friend or even by yourself. Recommended for ages 5+.

Many more listings in our print magazine – email editor@familiesherts.co.uk for a copy