Families Hertfordshire March/April 2023 Print

Welcome

The seasons are turning and spring is just around the corner. So it’s time to stop hibernating and re-embrace the big outdoors! Check out our bumper What’s On section for ideas on places to go, so you can make the most of the milder weather and spending quality time with the kids.

There are interesting articles in our Education section too, including how to re-engage children in learning, and how parents can best help children with homework. Our celebrity interview this issue is with the multi-talented George Webster, and we have some great, imaginative and healthy after-school snack ideas for the kids.

Of course, Easter is just around the corner and it’s not too soon to start making plans for those all-important egg hunts.

Finally, in this issue, we have Smoby Nature Playhouses to giveaway and you can apply inside. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Enjoy the read!

Dream getaway with Away Resorts

Whether you desire coastal or country, why not go on that dream getaway this Spring with Away Resorts. There are 23 stunning UK locations, jam-packed with fantastic facilities, from arcades to swimming pools, and surrounded by fabulous local attractions for family fun.

Selected parks have themed activities this Easter, including stage shows and live acts to keep you and the little ones smiling from ear to ear!

The resorts cater for all and are dog friendly too.

For more information and to book go to awayresorts.co.uk or call 03333 634189.

Confidence-building fun with Perform

Spring is the perfect time of year to get those feel-good endorphins pumping and Perform’s new summer term themes are sure to get bodies moving and hearts singing. What’s more, your child can try a class for free!

Perform offers a different type of children’s drama class. They don’t focus on creating perfect dancers or the next child stars. Instead, they put children’s social development at the heart of their classes, using a specially formulated mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential.

Schools learning about native species

A Hertfordshire zoo has taken the initiative to bring education about native species and the need for conservation to the doorsteps of the local communities around the county.

Paradise Wildlife Park is delivering to schools a donation of a sustainably made swift box, including a pack of educational resources, as part of a their Big Bird Box Build project.

With the aim to reach over 350 Hertfordshire schools, Paradise Wildlife Park has already started to deliver the packs to schools, which have been well received by both children and teachers.

For more information on Paradise Wildlife Park visit www.pwpark.com

Exciting termly themes keep young imaginations buzzing while small class sizes ensure lots of individual attention from professionally trained staff. Classes are for children of all abilities and they can join at any point in the term.

From April to July, 4-7s will be setting sail on the Jammy Dodger in Mermaids & Pirates whilst 7–12s will take part in The Dream, an hilarious adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

New class in Royston Methodist Church.

Classes in Broxbourne, Harpenden, Hertford, Hitchin, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, Royston, St Albans, Welwyn Garden City. To book a FREE trial class, visit www.perform.org.uk/try

Great British Spring Clean is back

Wherever you live, you and your family can make a difference to your local environment by sparing just a few hours to take part in the Great British Spring Clean from 17 March to 2 April.

Now in its eighth year, the event aims to encourage people across the country, from individual volunteers – dubbed #LitterHeroes by the charity – to families, schools, groups of friends, businesses, community groups and local authorities to come together to clean up streets, parks, beaches and other public spaces.

It’s easy to get involved. Simply pledge to take part and either organise a litter-pick in your community or join an organised event.

To find out more, join a local event, register to take part and access resources including a how-to guide, visit https://bit.ly/KBTspringclean

A ‘universal childcare guarantee’ would boost UK economy

A ‘universal childcare guarantee’ for children up to age 11 would boost economy by extra £13 billion a year, a report finds.

The research by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) found that providing access to affordable childcare for all families could slash nearly £2.8 billion from government spending through the resulting increase in parents returning to work or extending their hours.

It would mean some 700,000 household could see their incomes rise and, whilst, at the same time, reducing the current high cost of childcare for families from between £620 and £6,175 a year.

With more women returning to full time work and progressing further and faster in their careers, the gender pay gap would also narrow.

The report sets out the steps needed to boost economic growth which start with increasing funding for free hours of childcare and extending wraparound care.

More info: www.bit.ly/IPPRchildcare

Top 3 independent girls’ schools in Hertfordshire

Prep - Senior - Sixth Form - Boarding

Senior & Sixth Form OPEN MORNINGS

Saturday 18th March 10.00 – 12.30

Friday 24th March 9.00 – 11.00

To book your visit contact: admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk - 01462 670511 St Francis' College, Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3PJ

LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY

Meet George Webster

Families chats with George Webster, the 22-year-old TV presenter, actor, dancer and ambassador for Mencap. George was catapulted into the public eye when he spoke about Down’s syndrome in his myth-busting video for BBC Bitesize. A trailblazer, he is now the first ever CBeebies presenter to have Down’s syndrome. In November 2022, George won a BAFTA (Children and Young People Awards) for Best Presenter.

Congratulations on winning your BAFTA! How do you feel about that achievement?

I feel really proud and really honoured to achieve the award for presenter. I work with so many brilliant people at CBeebies and I feel like things are starting to improve for people like me in the media industry.

Tell us about your journey to become a presenter on CBeebies.

I always loved acting, dancing and performing at school and since then one thing has led to another. While volunteering at Parkrun, Sky filmed me for a documentary and I then became a Mencap ambassador. When my BBC Bitesize video busting the five myths of Down’s syndrome got five million hits, CBeebies got in touch inviting me to be

a guest presenter and now I’m a regular!

Who has been most supportive in helping you achieve your success?

My parents have been really supportive throughout my life and they always keep telling me ‘just be yourself.’ I always am and I want to say thank you to them for their love and support. Also, my support teachers at school, my friends, the NHS and local charities.

What advice would you give to encourage other youngsters who are facing challenges and want to pursue similar careers?

Be yourself and dream big. We can all dream big so don’t let anyone else decide for you as it’s your life. Get involved with local performing arts groups too.

GIVEAWAY!

Five signed copies of This is ME! picture book

Families has teamed up with BAFTA award-winning TV presenter, George Webster, CBeebies’ first presenter with Down syndrome, to o er five lucky children copies of George’s new book, This is ME!

This is ME! is a heartfelt and uplifting story that follows a little boy called George as he tells the reader all about who he is, his life and his experiences. George knows that having Down syndrome is an important part of him but it does not define him.

Featuring George’s real-life friends and family as well as a joyful cast of characters reflective of society and with bright and bold illustrations by best-selling illustrator, Tim Budgen, This is ME! celebrates uniqueness, being ourselves and how our di erences make us special.

Scan the QR code to apply or visit familiesmag.co.uk/go

Closing date: 21 April

T&Cs at https://bit.ly/gwbookgiveaway

What do you enjoy most about presenting?

I love everything about presenting at CBeebies! I’ve met loads of brilliant people and now we’re great friends. I also enjoy showing the viewers at home that people like me can be represented within the media and that ‘difference’ can inspire their kids’ lives. Their kids can have many role models, no matter who and what they are.

You’ve now written a picture book called This is ME! Tell us more.

This is ME! is about me, my friends and family when I was younger. It’s about celebrating differences no matter what we look like and who we are. It’s also about each person having their own glow inside that we all need to see.

The book illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to your rhyming words. How did the partnership come together?

My publisher, Scholastic Children’s Books, paired me with the wonderful illustrator, Tim Budgen. Working with him and my co-author, Claire Taylor, has been brilliant and a real collaborative effort.

What has been the best moment of your career so far?

There are so many! Working with CBeebies, writing a book, winning a BAFTA, being on Casualty, going to the premiere of S.A.M and dancing on stage with Talent Hub. Plus going to UDance National Finals to represent

Yorkshire as the first inclusive dance group with Meshdance and watching my appearance on Strictly Come Dancing back on Christmas Day.

You are ambassador for the charity Mencap, which works to improve the life of young people with learning difficulties. Tell us what this work means to you.

It means a lot to me as I have many friends with a learning disability and they’re all brilliant. People like us exist and working with Mencap means our voices get heard. I want people to understand us more rather than be scared of us.

Where would you like to see your career heading in the future?

I’d love to do more presenting and acting work. I would love to be in Death in Paradise, EastEnders and Doctor Who. Or I could be the new James Bond - why not! Also, I’d love to compete on the main show of Strictly Come Dancing.

If you had to bust one myth about having Down’s syndrome, what would it be?

‘People with Down syndrome are always happy.’ This just isn’t true! We have a range of emotions like every living person has.

What do you do to relax?

I love going to the theatre or cinema, watching films and tv and listening to music. Oh, and thrashing my dad at FIFA!

LOCKERS PARK

“Once

Six reasons children switch off from learning (and how to re-engage them)

By Gail Hugman

Given eleven years of compulsory full-time schooling, it’s not surprising many children come across difficulties that affect their performance and ability to learn and some switch off learning altogether. The reasons for ‘switching off’ can be many and varied. Here are six of the most common I have come across along with steps which can help children re-engage.

Boredom

It is not uncommon for parents to know intuitively that their child could do much better if they applied themselves. Children need three things to help them do this: to understand how schoolwork helps them develop skills, to know which goal to aim for next and to receive positive praise for small as well as big achievements.

Summer born

Summer born babies are the youngest in their class, which can mean up to eleven months’ less experience of life and development. Being in a group of children who are physically bigger and who know and can do more, can affect confidence and self-belief. Talking to your child about the age difference and what it means can help to keep them engaged.

Learning differences

Sometimes children switch off because they have an undiagnosed learning difference. They get by using coping strategies such as copying friends or telling you they ‘read better in their head,’ to hide their embarrassment. Trust your gut instinct if something doesn’t feel right.

Major events

Separation and divorce, bereavement, moving house, illness and the birth of a sibling all disrupt daily life. It takes three years to recover from a major stress event and we can sometimes forget this in the hurly burly. Having a chat to help settle your child’s mind about the event or remind them how much they’ve achieved or changed can help to ‘update’ their brain and refocus on moving forward.

Not knowing who or how to ask for help

A normally enthusiastic 7-year-old child had become reluctant to go to school and his work was starting to suffer. His teacher and parent both noticed the change. When investigated, it turned out that the boy’s desk had been moved next to the window in class

and he was cold! He didn’t know who to tell. Sometimes the most challenging issues have the simplest solutions. Ask your child what’s going on in school. Don’t overthink it; start simple.

Poor concentration

The possibilities for distraction from learning are numerous. Too much screen time can agitate young developing brains; not enough sleep; not understanding or liking a subject; being too hot, too cold, too hungry or chatting with a friend and missing instructions can all lead to concentration issues. It is more important than ever that your child can focus and concentrate well in the classroom.

How to help

Sit down with your child and ask them what they see as their strengths and what they are proud of, then tell them what you see they have achieved in the last year. Ask them what help they would wish for at school if you had a magic wand. By taking an interest and showing you care, this helps get the discussion started to tease out anything on their mind that you can help with.

Gail Hugman is the bestselling author of 100 Things to Learn

Before You’re 10. A children’s life coach, she owns and runs Human at Core (www.humanatcore.com), which helps parents motivate and engage their children through science-based, online personal development courses.

Concentration skills

Try a daily brain warm up before school with timed, pacy exercises:

Throw ball to wall and catch or throw ball to person – or hand to hand - and catch.

Trace a simple picture or pattern.

Two minutes - repeatedly copy out and say a times table OR write out spellings.

Two minutes – squeeze a stress ball to release tension and develop hand control.

Two minutes - look at timetable for the day to get the brain ready.

Working memory

Working memory and processing issues are not a measure of intelligence but they slow children down. The good news is children can improve with help. Try these simple daily activities for working memory issues:

Read homework to your child.

Show your child what to do first, what to do second etc and look at each step when finished.

Help your child read often to boost confidence. Play memory games frequently.

Homework: how you can help

By Zuzu Jordan

Homework is an important part of the learning process but many parents find it difficult to help their children with this for a number of reasons. Sometimes it’s difficult to juggle work and find the optimum time when your child is most productive. Frequently parents feel that ‘the way they teach now’ isn’t how they were taught when they were school age.

Nevertheless, we all want to feel that we have done all we can to steer our children’s education in the right direction.

So what is homework?

Homework covers activities set by the class teacher, which vary from preparing for an upcoming topic, consolidating a lesson already taught or revising for a test. Your role at home is to help your child learn how to work independently, rather than endeavouring to ensure they get full marks.

Consider some of these techniques as a starting point towards a happier homework environment:

Ensure the space helps your child concentrate. A quiet room in the house with a table or desk is preferable. If this isn’t possible, libraries offer quiet spaces and most schools run a homework club. If you don’t have access to a computer or tablet, these are valuable free services.

Establish a routine. If your child works better in the morning when they are more alert, then consider doing some homework before school. This may require a complete change to your morning routine.

Devising a timetable with your child that shows the times for homework across the week can help them see what is expected each day.

All the kit at their fingertips. This is key to ensuring a smooth transition into getting the homework started. Searching for a pencil for half an hour will not help your child stay on track.

Technology can be a great tool. It helps with research and can be also used to revise a concept with which your child may be struggling. More and more schools are setting homework online and expecting children to use a unique login.

Teachers appreciate your input so do ask them for advice if homework is proving a sticking point.

Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find the Facebook page Edumateuk.

Healthy after-school snack ideas

By Sarah Alder

It’s a familiar scene across the country at school pick up time. Children come running out of the classroom to greet you and instead of ‘hello’, it’s: ‘can I have a snack?’. So how do we satisfy their ravenous after-school hunger with healthy foods?

It’s good to have some quick and easy ideas to hand to avoid spending a fortune on packaged snacks.

Savoury

Fun bites

Fruity

Celery sticks filled with peanut butter and raisins or cream cheese and tomato are really yummy and can even be presented as a stack to make a Gruffalo log pile house!

Vegetable sticks (carrot, cucumber, pepper etc) are easy to prepare and work well with houmous. Or, for something a bit different, try bread sticks with a yoghurt-based dip or guacamole.

I’m a great fan of savoury muffins. These can be batched cooked and frozen. For a great courgette, spinach and cheese muffin recipe, head to https://bit.ly/ ktsavourymuffin

To ramp up the novelty factor, you can make a simple but tasty savoury mix and keep it in an airtight container for the kids to snack on throughout the week. There’s one at https://bit.ly/kttrailmix you can try. Or you can mix together some dried fruit and seeds if you don’t have much prep time.

Don’t forget healthy cereals which make a great snack especially if paired with some fruit and milk or yoghurt - think popped rice, Shreddies, Shredded Wheat or Cheerios. And then there’s the fun favourite – popcorn! Try popping your own and experimenting with flavours (think cinnamon, smoked paprika, Marmite butter…)

Top Tip

Think of snacks as mini meals which should ideally include a small amount of foods from different food groups to ensure your kids stay fuller for longer. This will reduce the demand for more snacks!

Not always a firm favourite with kids but fruit can be offered in different ways to keep it interesting. Think fruit salad, fruit kebabs, chopped apple, banana and grapes, berries and natural yoghurt (you can use frozen berries to save some money and to offer them all year round).

Fruit smoothies are really tasty and go down well with kids, whilst home-made fruit muffins don’t even feel like fruit! See https://bit.ly/ktsmoothie for recipe.

Carb Filled

Think oatcake with peanut butter or cheese, toasted fruit bread or even a fruity, low sugar flapjack - there’s a great recipe at https://bit.ly/ktflapjacks

You can also serve cheese with crackers or plain scones with cheese. Great for days when the kids really need to get their teeth into something….

Images, top row from left to right: celery sticks with peanut butter and raisins, savoury mix, fruit kebabs and natural yoghurt. Bottom row from left to right: courgette, spinach and cheese muffins, popcorn, fruity, low sugar flapjack.

Sarah Alder of Kitchen Titbits (www.kitchentitbits.co.uk) is a meal planning and family mealtimes mentor who works with parents to support fussy eaters. Visit her site for lots of tips and advice and to find out about her courses and workshops.

What’s new or free in 2023

By Claire Winter

To help you and your family get the best out of the year ahead, Families brings you the lowdown on exciting free events and new products for 2023.

The Young V&A (formerly the Museum of Childhood) will re-open in Bethnal Green, London this summer as a new national museum and creative powerhouse for children and young teens.

www.vam.ac.uk/young

Manchester Museum has undergone an incredible £15m transformation project. The Golden Mummies of Egypt promises to be an exciting exhibition featuring more than a hundred objects including eight mummies. www. museum.manchester.ac.uk

Go on a night-time adventure to look at constellations and galaxies at one of England’s growing range of dark sky experiences and festivals. 2023 marks the tenth anniversary of Northumberland International Dark Sky Park, the UK’s largest and first International Dark Sky Park, which spans nearly 1,500 square km of Northumberland National Park and Kielder Water and Forest Park. https://bit.ly/northdarkskies

Explore the North Downs Art Trail on foot or bicycle to enjoy stunning views between Dover in Kent and Farnham in Surrey, where a series of sculptures work as benches or shelters. Choose from a range of downloadable, self-guided walking or cycling routes. https://bit.ly/ndownsarttrail

Check out the all-British and all-electric Firefly Sports car for kids. It’s hoped the car will help educate youngsters about road safety and how future motor vehicles can be an environmental force for good. Try driving the Firefly Sport at Young Driver’s UK venues for £20. Book a lesson at www.youngdriver.com

All eyes will be on London with the Coronation of King Charles III on Saturday 6 May. Plus, we get a new bank holiday on Monday 8 May to continue the celebrations. Expect lots of free royal-themed events, exhibitions and celebrations across the UK. www.royal.uk

LEGO Friends® releases five new sets this year with diverse characters that better represent children. The new sets will be inclusive of various ethnicities, disabilities and neurodivergence and will feature characters with limb difference, Downs syndrome, anxiety, vitiligo and even pets with disabilities, including a blind dog and a dog with a wheelchair. https://bit.ly/friendsdiverse

The new car sunshade from Shady® is the only car sunshade that allows you to wind down your car window. The sunshade blocks nearly all harmful UV rays and sticks firmly to the glass of the window. It’s perfect for any age and if you have a newborn, it has been specifically developed to nurture and stimulate vision and the optic nerves by incorporating high contrast, black-and-white, fun images whilst providing protection from direct sunlight. www.sunshady.co.uk

Baboodle is the first baby equipment subscription platform, renting baby essentials to parents for as much time as they need. There are huge discounts on baby equipment and the scheme reduces the waste associated with baby equipment. Sign up and start saving at www.baboodle.co.uk

NEW

Funky T-Shirts from BonBonBon will brighten up any day. Designed by mother and daughter duo Nat and Bonnie, they give ten percent of every sale to Place2Be, a charity dedicated to improving children’s mental health. https://bit.ly/bonbonfunky

What’s On

listings for all the family

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.

Places to Go

Hertford Museum

Hertford 01992 582686

www.hertfordmuseum.org

The Proof of the Pudding Stone: Geology & Climate – until 16 April

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

Toddler Tuesday: Step into Spring – 7 March

Crafts, singing, stories and fun for the Under 4s, booking essential. £4 per child, includes a drink and snack (free places available to low-income families). 10.30am to 11.45am.

Easter Holiday Family Activities –Tuesday to Thursday during Easter Holidays

Different crafts available for all ages each week during the easter holidays. £3 per child, includes a drink and snack (free places available to low-income families). 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Harpenden Common www.harpenden.gov.uk

Nature Trail – Daily

The new Harpenden Common Nature Trail is now complete. The 3.9 miles route is split into four trails of different lengths, all are suitable for different abilities. FREE.

Easter Fun Fair – 6-10 April

Exciting rides and fun for all the family.

Lamb Bottle Feeding at Church Farm, Ardeley – every weekend and some weekdays until 30

April

Stevenage 01438 861447

www.churchfarmardeley.co.uk

Book online to experience lamb bottle feeding this spring, a unique and memorable experience for people of all ages. Feeding every weekend at 10.30am, 1.30pm and 4.30pm, plus weekdays (times tbc).

Goat Walking at Church Farm, Ardeley – every weekend and every day in Easter Holidays

Stevenage 01438 861447

www.churchfarmardeley.co.uk

Join farmers walking Gilbert, Gregory, Gerald and Gordon. You will lead your own personal goat on a leisurely stroll, with frequent stops for them to nibble their favourite leaves and plants and for you to take photographs of the occasion. Book online.

Trestle Theatre Company

Presents All About Us at Verulamium Museum –until 19 March

St Michael’s Street, St Albans, 01727 751810

www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

The All About Us exhibition celebrates the creativity and resilience of the learning-disabled community in St Albans and district, exploring memories, dreams, hopes and wishes in a sensory, immersive journey through people’s life experiences. FREE.

Play, Discover and Learn at The Hive

– Every Tuesday (term time only)

Hatfield

www.one.wellhat.gov.uk/thehive

Parent and toddler session. Messy and interactive play, bouncy castles and activities including painting and playdoh. £3 per child. 11.15am - 1.15pm.

Splodgers Arts and Crafts at Hatfield House – Wednesdays

Hatfield timeforsplodgers@gmail.com

Arts, Crafts and Messy-play sessions for under 5s in the Coach House Kitchen. Contact to book a space.

Hitchin Children’s Book Festival at British Schools Museum – 4 March

Hitchin

www.britishschoolsmuseum.org.uk

A celebration of all things literary, with talks by children’s authors, story-telling sessions, craft activities and more. 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm sessions. Book online.

Family Arts at The Broadway Gallery – 11 March and 8 April Letchworth 01462 476110

www.broadway-gallery.com

Take the little ones along on the second Saturday of each month for fun family workshops led by local

creatives. 10am-11am and 1pm2pm. A ‘pay what you can’ event.

Museum Minis at St Albans Museum and Gallery – 13 March and 3 April St Albans • 01727 864 511 www.stalbansmuseums.co.uk

Enjoy a story, craft activities and a museum hunt, inspired by a popular story.

The Queen of Herts Tearoom Redbourn High Street

www.thequeenofherts.co.u

A family run traditional tea room serving afternoon teas, lunch items such as toasties, sandwiches, tea and cake – and a warm welcome guaranteed.

Mother’s Day Sunday lunch at Knebworth House – 19 March Stevenage • 01438 812661

www.knebworthhouse.com

Enjoy a traditional Sunday roast lunch in Knebworth Barns, a perfect way to celebrate the day with loved ones. Tickets for Sunday Lunch also include access to Knebworth Gardens and Dinosaur Trail.

Mother’s Day at the Mill at Mill Green Museum – 19 March Hatfield

www.millgreenmuseum.co.uk

Create a Bouquet of paper flowers for your mothers and motherfigures this Mother’s Day. Activities come with general admission which is £5 for adults and £1.50 for children. For ages 2-10 years.

Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum – 24 March and 28 April St Michael’s Street, St Albans, 01727 751 810

www.stalbansmuseum.co.uk

A session for ages 2 to 4 years, including a story, craft activity and a museum hunt, inspired by a popular story. March: A Dress with Pockets by Lily Murray. April: The Lion Inside by Rachel Bright. Sessions are 10.30am - 11.30am and 13.15pm - 14.15pm. £5 per child.

Easter Eggstravagnaza at Willows Activity Farm – 30 March to 14 April

St Albans 0333 3312060

www.willowsactivityfarm.com

The family fun includes an Easter egg hunt, grotto, arts and crafts,

Easter chicks, pig racing and lamb bottle feeding demonstrations. Peter Rabbit and the Easter Bunny will be hopping in every day on the outdoor show stage too.

Easter Family Baking Workshop at Hertfordshire Community Kitchen – 3 and 4 April

St Albans

www.hertscommunitykitchen.org

Children aged 6+ can make two kinds of Easter treats at this family workshop (children must be accompanied by an adult). £30 for one adult and child, an additional child can be added for £5.

Easter Holiday Fun at Standalone Farm – 3 to 16 April

Letchworth Garden City 01462 686775

www.standalonefarm.com

Hop along to Standalone Farm this Spring for lamb feeding and Easter egg hunts. Little ones can explore the brand-new playground and meet the new alpacas.

Easter Holiday Activities at the Welwyn Roman Baths – 5-12 April Welwyn

www.millgreenmuseum.co.uk/ roman-baths/events

Get crafty with family activities during the Easter holidays. £5 for adults and £5 for children. Ages 2-12 years.

Easter Salt Dough Decorations at Mill Green Museum – 6 April Hatfield

www.millgreenmuseum.co.uk

Make stunning decorations for easter with salt dough easter shapes, while learning how to craft and recycle at the same time. £5 for adults and £5 for children. Ages 2-12 years.

Easter Trail at Knebworth House – 7-10 April

Stevenage 01438 812661

www.knebworthhouse.com

Follow the Trail around Knebworth Gardens looking for clues to complete the word puzzle. Children collect a prize at the end.

HArts Fest at Hertford Castle –8-15 April

Hertford

www.hertford.gov.uk

The annual Hertford arts festival, HArts Fest, is a weeklong event to

showcase and promote local art and cultural events, activities and exhibitions within Hertford and the local area. And FREE daily art or cultural workshops in the grounds of Hertford Castle.

Mini Train Adventures at Mill Green Museum – 15 April

Hatfield

www.millgreenmuseum.co.uk

Explore the miniature railways and model trains from several of the local train Societies. Activities come with general admission which is £5 for adults and £1.50 for children. All ages welcome.

CJ’s Birds of Prey Experiences at Hatfield House – 15 April

Hatfield

01707 287000

www.hatfield-house.co.uk

The display will include a variety of birds including the second strongest Eagle, the Crowned Hawk Eagle, the stunning Snowy Owl and more. Book online, £12 per person. 11am to 3pm.

Clubs, Classes & Camps

Gwen Halam Dance

Harpenden, Redbourn

07792309401

www.ghdance.com

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.

Kaisho Martial Arts

Harpenden, Letchworth, St Albans

01582 320166

www.kaishouk.co.uk

Practice a combination of traditional Japanese Ju-Jitsu techniques with modern combat martial arts. info@kaishouk. co.uk .

Divine Yoga

Borehamwood, Kenton

07791570222

www.divineyoga143.com

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

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.

Awesome Engineers

St Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Harpenden, Rickmansworth

www.awesome-engineers.com

Awesome Engineers run STEM sessions for primary school children using LEGO. For more

Signing Toddlers

www.signingtoddlers.co.uk

Fun sessions where your child can learn signs to add to their word bank! Exploring new vocabulary through signing, turntaking, sharing and listening.

Baby Rhyme Time at local libraries

0300 1234049

Hatfield (every Friday), Woodhall (every Monday), Welwyn Garden City (every Thursday), Marshalswick (every Thursday), St Albans (every Tuesday), Hertford (every Monday), Harpenden (every Monday). Baby Rhyme Time is a fun half hour session of songs and rhymes suitable for babies and toddlers. FREE

Lego Club at local libraries

0300 1234049

Letchworth (6 Mar & 3 Apr), Rickmansworth (6 Mar & 3 April), Hatfield (every Tuesday), Hertford (every Tuesday, term time), Bishop’s Stortford (every Thursday).

Basketball at Everyone

Active Westminster Lodge –Thursdays

St Albans 01727 736080

www.everyoneactive.com

A course led by a fully qualified level 2 coach, designed to teach the skills and techniques needed to play basketball in a safe and friendly environment. Ages 7 to 11+.

Hatfield Swim Centre

Hatfield

www.better.org.uk/lessonsand-courses

Better Swimming Lessons

Hatfield Swim Centre offers

children’s swimming lessons for all abilities. Ages 4+, £30 per month.

Gosling Sports Park

Welwyn Garden City

Toddler Bounce – Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday (and every day of Easter Holidays except Sundays)

A Trampoline session dedicated to those under the age of 5. Tickets must be booked online. Mondays and Fridays 10am12pm, Tuesdays and Saturdays 10am-11am.

Super Saver Bounce – Monday, Tuesday and Friday

A trampoline session at a reduced rate, a perfect after school activity. Book online. Term time only. 4pm-6pm.

SEN Bounce – Tuesday and Sunday

Trampoline session dedicated for those with special educational needs. A quieter environment and a more relaxed session. Book online. Tuesday 11-12pm, Sunday 10am-11am.

General Bounce – Saturday and Sunday (and every day of Easter Holidays except Sundays)

A trampoline session open to people of all abilities and ages over 18 months. Book online. 11am-5pm.

Soft Play – Daily

With climbing frames, ball pits and slides, suitable for under age 11. Monday to Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am-5pm.

Footgolf and Pitch and Putt at Panshanger Golf Complexdaily

Welwyn Garden City  Choose from footgolf or pitch and putt. 9 holes for £3.50. Ages 6 to 16.

Stanborough Park

Welwyn Garden City

Stage 1 Youth Sailing Course – 3 and 4 April

A basic introduction to the parts of a sailing boat and the basic principles of how to get a boat sailing. Ages 8 to 15. £155 (for both days).

Pedalow and Rowing Boat Hire –3-16 April

Hire a rowing boat or pedalow to enjoy a relaxing trip around the North Lake. Rowing boat hire £11 (for 30 minutes). Pedalow hire £16 (for 30 minutes). 12pm-4pm daily, weather dependant.

Hatfield Leisure Centre

Hatfield

Football Camps – Monday, Wednesday Friday in Easter

Holidays

Football camps for ages 8+ using 7-a-side football pitches with a coach provided to offer fun games, skills and drills. £5 for 1 Hour.

Junior Badminton – every Saturday

Fun badminton session with high level coaches with games and enjoyable skills and drills.

£3.35 per session. Ages 6 to 12.

Trampoline Drop-in Sessions –Monday and Saturday

Trampoline drop-in session with a trained coach. £7.45. Ages 6 to 12.

Linzie’s Music Class at Napsbury Pavilion – Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays

St Albans 07956 857589

www.bookmyclass.co.uk/

LinziesMusicGroup

Fun sensory music group for babies and toddlers, includes nursery rhymes, action songs, pop songs with props, musical instruments, puppets, bubbles, lights and stickers. Term time only.

Dinky Dancers

St Albans, Redbourn, Harpenden 01438 831281

www.dinkydancers.com

Dance, PE, music and action activities for 2 years+. Exploring a new theme each half term, developing childrens’ social, physical and creative skills.

Best Theatre Arts and Best Beans

St Albans, Hertford 01727 759634

www.besttheatrearts.com

Best gives young people aged 4 to 18 the best possible introduction to the theatre. As well as classes in acting, dancing and singing, Best can help teach confidence, self-discipline and communication skills. Best Beans are classes for ages 2 to 4 in St Albans and Hertford.

Perform 0207 7255 9120

www.perform.org.uk Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Every child can try a free no-obligation class, visit www.perform. org.uk/try. Venues: St Albans, Harpenden, Hertford, Hitchin, Radlett, Royston, Knebworth, Welwyn Garden City, Bishops Stortford and Broxbourne. enquiries@perform.org.uk

Holiday Clubs

FunFest Holiday Camp

St Albans 07767 877198

Harpenden 01582 369000 www.fun-fest.co.uk

A school holiday club which provides children with a choice from an exciting range of activities, with sessions ranging from Mission Impossible and Sports Action to Cupcake Heaven and Crafty Creations. There’s something for all children.

Replay Holiday Club

St Albans 07913 323608 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.

Happy Days Holiday Club

Stevenage 07883 511319 www.leys.herts.sch.uk/ parents-holiday-club

Happy Days Holiday and Afterschool Club provides a friendly, fun and safe environment together with high-quality childcare for children aged 3-13.

Multi Active School Holiday Club

www.multi-active.co.uk

Multi-Active Holiday Camps provide fun experiences for kids and offer parents a reliable and affordable childcare solution.

Venues: Abbots Langley, Bishops Stortford, Hertford, Hitchin, Letchworth, Rickmansworth, Royston, South Oxley, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, Ware.

Rising Stars Wrap Around Holiday Clubs

01462 790152

www.risingstars-wraparound. co.uk Holiday course activities include sports such as trampolining, inflatables, team games and gymnastics as well as creative activities. Venues: Stortford, Hitchin, Lutterworth and Stevenage.

SuperCamps Holiday Club

01235 467300

www.supercamps.co.uk

SuperCamps are a leading

provider of childcare in the UK, offering holiday camps for children aged 4-14.

Venues: Hertford, Hitchin and Rickmansworth. Visit website for more information, dates and to book your place.

Family Easter Baking Workshop

www.hertscommunitykitchen.org

Children aged 6+ can make two kinds of Easter treats at this family workshop in St Albans (children must be accompanied by a parent/carer). £30 for one adult and child, an additional child can be added for £5.

uPlay Sports Holiday Club at Hitchin Girls’ School

Hitchin 01462 374049

www.uplaysports.co.uk

Delivering tennis during the school holidays in a fun environment with a mixture of tournaments, tennis-based games, technical sessions and challenges.

Happy Holiday Activities at The Hive Hatfield

www.sportinherts.org.uk/ booking

Happy Camp sessions are FREE for children on benefit-related school meals and will be running daily over the Easter Holidays.

Multi-Sports Holiday Club at Healthy U Gym

Hemel Hempstead 01442 769071

www.healthyugym.com

Multi sports activities and fitness classes for 7-11 years. Monday to Friday, 10am-3pm.

Herts Performing Arts Easter Stage School at Ashwell Village Hall – 3-6 April

Ashwell 07753 754452

www.facebook.com/ hertsperformingarts

Join characters Funny Bunny, Clumsy Chicken, Grumpy Goose and Daft Duck for four days of egg-cellent fun with drama, singing, dance and craft.

Easter Circus Camp at Roundwood Park School – 3-6 April

Harpenden

www.showtimecircus.co.uk

Your child will giggle with delight as they learn aerial hoop, silks, hula hooping and more in this four day camp for children taught by circus artists. £45 per day or £150 for all four days. Ages 5 to 12

Herts

Musical Theatre Easter Workshop at The Radlett Centre – 11-14 April

Radlett • 01923 859291

www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Join professional actors, directors and musical directors for some theatre fun based on a wellknown musical. 9.30am- 4.30pm (Thursday until 6pm) £165.

Theatre

High School Musical at Sandpit Theatre – 19 March

St Albans • 0113 2243732

www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life on your stage in Disney’s High School Musical JR. 1pm and 6pm.

Breathe at South Mill Arts – 12 April

Bishop’s Stortford. 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

Breathe explores the inner workings of trees, all beautifully realised through a combination of puppetry, detailed sets, and live camera work. Underscored through a truly unique blend of thumping drum & base and live ethereal folk songs. Ages 5+. 2.30pm.

Best and Even Better Tales at Sandpit Theatre – 1 and 2 April

St Albans 0113 2243732

www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

A madcap musical inspired by fairy tales and stories.

Fireman Sam at The Radlett Centre – 3 April

Radlett • 01923 859291

www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Join Sam, Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in an all singing, dancing, actionpacked show. 12pm & 3.30pm.

Twirly Woos Live at Gordon Craig Theatre – 4 April

Stevenage Arts & Leisure

Centre 01438 363200

www.gordon-craig.co.uk

Join Great BigHoo, Toodloo, Chickedy, Chick and their friends as they discover the wonderful world around us!

The Three Little Pigs at South Mill Arts – 4 April

Bishop’s Stortford 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

Join the three pigs as they excitedly leave the family sty in search of new adventures!

11.30am and 2pm.

The Jungle Book at The Radlett Centre – 5 April Radlett 01923 859291

www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Filled with original music, audience interaction, and bags of comedy. 1pm and 4pm.

The Little Mermaid at Gordon Craig Theatre – 7 to 10 April

Stevenage Arts & Leisure

Centre • 01438 363200

www.gordon-craig.co.uk

Guaranteed to make a splash this Easter, Jordan Productions return with their fantastic musical adaptation of ‘The Little Mermaid’.

Perfect Step Dance Studio: Dreams & Wishes at Gordon Craig Theatre – 25 and 26 March

Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre 01438 363200

www.gordon-craig.co.uk

A magical array of dances performed by the talented pupils from Perfect Step Dance Studio.

Top Secret: The Magic Of Science at South Mill Arts – 13 April Bishop’s Stortford, 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

Top Secret will inspire and

educate every young budding magician and scientist, as well as proving fun and exciting entertainment for all of the family. 2pm.

Spectacular Science Show at The Radlett Centre – 23 April Radlett • 01923 859291

www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Scientific fun for kids and parents, Mark’s Spectacular Science Show explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortex-generating dustbins and even howling jelly babies! 11am. Ages 5+.

Other Listings

Hertfordshire Family Centre Service

www.hertsfamilycentres. org/family-centre

Offering support for children and families. FREE baby and toddler groups, help finding childcare, antenatal classes, support with breastfeeding, health visiting (0-5 years), and school nursing (5 years+). Also support with parenting and speech and language services for children with special needs.