Families Hertfordshire May/June 2023 Print

Welcome

There are a lot of opportunities for early summer fun over the next couple of months with the Coronation of King Charles III and the half term break at the end of May. Now the weather is getting better and the evenings longer, the garden and outdoor spaces beckon and you can get the kids outside to play.

If you are planning travel with extended family, check out our tips for holidaying with grandparents and, whilst looking forward to the months to come, it’s the perfect time to think about booking your child into a summer day camp or workshop – the long summer holidays will be here before you know it! Check out some local camps in What’s On.

We’ve got a couple of great competitions this issue. You can win a holiday for your family to a fabulous UK location with Away Resorts (page 5), and why not picnic and dance the evening away at Classic Ibiza this summer – we’ve got a pair of tickets on offer (page 5).

Look out for our Orchard Toy game giveaway – we have loads of Little Shopping Lotto games on offer! Perfect for your kids to take away on a holiday, weekend away or just while on the move. Apply inside and you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

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Editor: Dale Harry

Email: editor@familiesherts.co.uk

Web: www.familiesonline.co.uk

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To book a FREE trial class, visit www. perform.org.uk /try

Book a FREE summer term class with Perform

Summer term is here and there’s no better time for your child to try Perform. Packed with self-esteem boosting activities, Perform weekly classes round off the academic year with a fun and relaxed focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. Using a mix of drama, dance and singing, these high-energy classes for all abilities are designed to allow even the most reticent children to shine.

This term, 4-7s will be setting sail on the Jammy Dodger for an adventure with the Mermaids & Pirates. Meanwhile, 7-12s will enjoy a laugh-out-loud adaptation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream in The Dream. The curriculum has an emphasis on fun with free apps and videos to watch at home.

Classes are for all abilities and every child is welcome to try a free class in Broxbourne, Harpenden, Hertford, Hitchin, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, Royston, St Albans, Welwyn Garden City. Just visit www.perform.org. uk/try

Perform fun continues into the summer holidays - don’t miss the Perform in the Park summer festival of children’s theatre. Visit performinthepark.uk to book.

T: 020 7255 9120 / www.enquiries@perform.org.uk

The benefits of signing

Watching your baby grow and achieve various milestones in their young lives is amazing. The biggest milestone is language development and communication skills.

Signing is a great tool that helps to open and support the pathways to communication with your child and its use for babies and children is increasing rapidly as more people become aware of its huge benefits.

Signing Toddlers classes help improve communication skills, offers quality

A Celtic getaway with a difference!

Step away from everyday life and enjoy a magical break with a Family Prehistory Adventure at Celtic Harmony Camp. This summer, you can take an exclusive 3-day 2-night stay between 21 July and 6 August.

Wake up in your very own Iron Age roundhouse and spend your days in a variety of workshops and demonstrations led by a team of enthusiastic educators. Try your hand at archery, den building, fire lighting and much more!

Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, this secret escape has everything you need for a wonderful family short break (up to 2 adults and 3 children). Everything you need is provided, including king-size and single beds, linens and towels, and delicious food!

To book your family prehistory adventure visit Celticharmony.org/daysout or call on 01438 718543.

bonding time, builds your little one’s confidence and reduces frustration!

Using BSL signs, puppets, music and a great variety of unique props, you can be sure that your little one and you are captivated for the whole lesson.

The Summer term started in late April and runs for 10 weeks through to July. Signing Babies classes start from around 4 months old, Signing Toddlers from 18 months old and Signing Talkers from 2 years plus.

For more information, including locations, please visit www.thesigningcompany.co.uk or www.signingbabies.co.uk, or email HitchinLetchworth@ thesigningcompany.co.uk.

WIN

a pair of tickets to Classic Ibiza at Hatfield House

Classic Ibiza makes its muchanticipated return to Hatfield House on Saturday 19 August, with its heady blend of Balearicinfused dance music. With the show due to sell out, we’re offering two lucky readers the chance to win a pair of tickets worth £96.

Headlined by the 32-piece Urban Soul Orchestra, who have played with the likes of Groove Armada, Nightmares on Wax and Robert Miles, the family-friendly concert also sees performances from DJ Goldierocks, globally renowned vocalists and former Pacha Ibiza resident, DJ Jose Luis.

That’s over five hours of the very best in stately house music, accompanied by a truly awesome laser and light show! Bring your own picnic and make sure you pack your dancing shoes for an evening of tracks from Faithless, Laurent Garnier, The Chemical Brothers and many more. Local street food

vendors and the San Miguel bar are also available on site.

To book tickets or for more information on this spectacular family-friendly concert, visit: www.classicibiza.co.uk

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets to Classic Ibiza, just answer the following question correctly:

Q: Name the orchestra that headlines Classic Ibiza.

Email your answer and name to editor@famiiesherts.co.uk. Closing date is 20 June. Terms and conditions at bit.ly/41Kgy2g

WINa family holiday with Away Resorts!

Win a four night stay for a family of up to six people at an Away Resorts location of your choice.

Experience one of Away Resorts’ fabulous UK locations, from countryside to coast, all within areas of natural beauty and close to places of interest. Your accommodation will be off-the-scale amazing and new experiences await at every turn. Jam-packed with activities, entertainment, fantastic facilities and even events, every member of the family will be grinning from ear to ear.

Explore the New Forest in Hampshire, Tattershall Lakes, Appletree or Cleethorpes Pearl in Lincolnshire, Mersea Island in Essex or Golden Sands in North Wales – or perhaps somewhere else will take your fancy. Full list of locations at www.awayresorts.co.uk/parks.

Enter at familiesmag.co.uk/go Closing date: 30 June 2023

T&Cs:

Royal Coronation

Joust at Chiltern Open Air Museum

A Royal Coronation Joust is taking place at Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, on Sunday 7 May and Bank Holiday Monday 8 May.

Hear the clash of steel and the thunder of hooves as armoured knights enact spectacular medieval jousting displays and hand-to-hand combat to win the favour of the crowds – go along and cheer for your favourite!

Jousting displays will take place at 12pm and 3pm. In-between jousts you can meet the Knights and their horses and find out more about what life would have been like.

This is a fantastic event with a fun atmosphere for the whole family so join the Knights of Royal England at Chiltern Open Air Museum and throw down your gauntlet for this action-packed event.

Pre-booked tickets cost £14 for adults, £13 for concessions, £8 for children, and entry is free for under-4s. More information and tickets at www.coam.org.uk

Meet Vese Aghoghovbia

Families spoke to Vese Aghoghovbia, the founder and creator of Philly & Friends, an empowering and award-winning children’s lifestyle and toy brand.

What inspired you to create this brand?

Becoming a parent in 2017 opened my eyes to the inequality in play. I realised how little representation was in the playroom and on the bookshelf at the time. I wanted to write a ‘love letter’ to my little girl to tell her how precious she is and give her the gift of representation because you have to be the change you want to see.

When I wrote Who Do I See in the Mirror? I didn’t realise then that I was writing a love letter to many children worldwide and creating a brand they would eventually fall in love with. This little idea for a simple children’s book has grown into a much-loved, award-winning children’s brand with giving back embedded in its DNA.

Tell us about your first book

Who Do I See in the Mirror? is a simple yet powerful book about a girl who goes on a journey to discover what makes her truly special. It ends with the strong message that what is on the inside matters most. It is a very affirming book that encourages our little ones to love who they are on the inside and the outside. According to the judges at Junior Design Awards, ‘it is a great library staple for all children’.

How did your vision for the brand develop?

When I first wrote Who Do I See in the Mirror? I thought my next step would be to publish a series of educational and

Orchard Toys Giveaway

empowering books. However, as the business grew it became clear it was a lot more than that. We work very closely with our community and respond to their requests in line with our brand vision and mission. We are adding a drop of colour to the playroom and the bookshelf, providing a solution to the growing demand for diversity in play.

How has creating Philly & Friends impacted you as a mother and what do your children think of what you do?

My kids love helping me prepare packages for customers. My daughter says I’m a doll maker but also an engineer and a mum. I love that she gets to see what I do.

The other day, someone asked her what she would love to do and she said ‘all the jobs in the world!’ That made me chuckle but also made me proud to know that she doesn’t feel limited in what she can become.

What is your favourite Philly & Friends product and what are your children’s favourites?

I can’t pick one. I love them all but Who Do I See in the Mirror? will always have a special place in my heart because it kickstarted this journey. My kids have influenced every single product and I’ve seen them love each one at different stages. My daughter has gone from reading her book every night to sleeping with her Philly dolls and now she’s giving me suggestions on the next few products.

What’s been the hardest part of your journey with the brand so far?

Self-publishing. I had to teach myself everything, figure out each step and self-fund the project.

Self-publishing is not for the faint-hearted and requires significant financial, mental and physical investment. You are the writer, marketer, producer, salesperson, logistics, supply chain manager; everything. There were many times I wanted to give up but I am glad I didn’t because the feedback, support and appreciation for the book have been nothing short of amazing. What advice would you give other parents embarking on a similar path to you?

Don’t hold yourself back, you can do it. Plan, brainstorm, research. There’s a world of information on Google and it’s all free. Find someone who is doing something similar and ask them lots of questions.

Where next for Philly & Friends?

The future of diversity in play depends on small inclusive children’s brands growing and becoming successful. In the next five years, I hope that our books and toys will be in the homes of every little boy and girl.

Philly & Friends has a range of books, wall art, dolls, jigsaws and peg sets designed to instil confidence and self-love through the power of representation. Find them at www.phillyandfriends.com

*while stocks last

How playgrounds benefit your child

As a parent or carer of young children, you’ve no doubt spent many hours sitting or standing in a playground watching your child play or pushing them on a swing. As well as being great for getting kids playing outside, playgrounds also have a range of developmental benefits - not just physical and social but cognitive and emotional too.

Unexpected physical benefits

Playgrounds provide children with the opportunity to develop their complete physical selves:

Swings and climbing frames develop advanced balancing skills and improve their equilibrium for surer footedness.

Climbing and running benefit muscle development and weight management.

Exposing children to daylight helps stabilise their circadian rhythms which can improve sleep patterns.

Playing outside exposes youngsters to more organic bacteria and microbes, which can help build a more robust immune system and an advanced microbiome.

The emotional and cognitive benefits

Anxiety, self-esteem and introversion are all common issues faced by children. A playground gives them a safe space in which to confront those feelings without judgement or expectation.

They can choose to play with the other kids in the castle or observe and learn how they can socialise before taking the first brave steps. Similarly, they can play by themselves on the swings

or slides to reduce their anxiety as they don’t need any help from others to accomplish that (though the kit is designed to encourage engagement and communication). Finally, they can give their self-esteem a boost by being brave enough to try a new piece of equipment or by making a new friend.

The playground gives them options. They don’t have to do anything they don’t want to but if they choose to act, it’s almost certain they will experience a benefit.

Playground play is also great for developing problem-solving skills, increasing creativity and encouraging critical thinking. Do too many children want to play in the castle? They can work together to create a game and solve the problem. Does everyone want to go on the slide? Well, they can queue and wait their turn, right?

Family Corner (www.familycorner.co.uk) is the family arm of the Early Years Alliance (www.eyalliance.org.uk). The charity provides expert-written articles on all aspects of child development including health, behaviour, communication and fun activities.

Which equipment is best for learning?

When deciding which kit is best for learning, it all depends on what you want the child to learn. Some children need social development while others need physicality, so here are some options:

For improved physicality. Climbing frames, rope bridges and adventure or obstacle-based trim trails all get under-used body parts moving.

For improved education. Check out the activity panels at the playground such as noughts and crosses, chalkboards, map boards and more. Often large-scale, they encourage fun learning outside the classroom. Outdoor classrooms and reading corners are an option for this kind of learning too.

For improved creativity. In pieces like castles, forts and multiplay kits, children naturally come up with the scenarios to make the equipment more exciting and come to life. This equipment also helps boost co-operation and communication between kids.

At the end of the day, every piece of playground equipment can help a child develop and learn something in some way.

T:

How handwriting affects self-esteem

By Catherine Loble and Lisa Wander

It is known that children who have good handwriting do better in school and enjoy it more. And the opposite is also true: those who struggle with handwriting are often at a disadvantage in the high-paced classroom setting. According to the Dyspraxia Foundation, children with poor handwriting are usually aware of their difficulty and their untidy handwriting can make them feel uncomfortable and isolated. Commonly, children feel depressed and frustrated as a direct result of poor writing skills.

Handwriting activates a specific part of the brain which helps establish and build the neural patterns needed for learning and memory. Studies show that children who spend time working on handwriting produce clearer and more coherent communication, along with better thought and organisation skills.

As the majority of our examinations are still handwritten, handwriting forms an integral part of our education system. Students who are unable to write legibly and articulately find themselves at a severe disadvantage. Once these skills are taught there is an enormous difference in confidence and selfesteem.

With at least ten to fifteen percent of children in the classroom suffering from poor self-confidence, teachers need watch out for early problems with their pupils’ handwriting. Simply having their writing labelled as messy or lazy by adults can contribute to a child’s low self-esteem and anxiety. This may lead children to believe that they are unintelligent and incapable of writing correctly and discourage them, continuing the downward spiral.

Unfortunately, the problem of anxiety-related handwriting problems cannot simply be overcome by using a computer. As a child grows older, there will always be everyday circumstances in which handwriting is needed. Furthermore, handwriting helps the flow of ideas and thoughts in a way which keyboarding doesn’t, so it is fundamental that children are taught to write legibly.

Although handwriting is an integral requirement of the National Curriculum, many schools are unable to dedicate to it the time required due to the huge demand of core subjects. In addition, there are many different styles and programmes being used with too many confusing elements.

With the correct time and teaching, children can master handwriting, thereby raising their confidence and self-esteem and embedding it into adulthood.

Catherine and Lisa 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.

“Once

Motor skills to support handwriting

Essential for handwriting, motor development is divided into gross and fine motor skills. Gross skills involve large muscle movements such as crawling, walking, running and swimming. Fine motor skills require smaller muscles: grasping, object manipulation and drawing.

Well-developed gross and fine motor skills are essential to a child’s readiness to write. Early years activities prepare them for the dexterity and co-ordination they will need in the classroom and it’s never too soon to start the journey.

Practising gross motor skills is the first step towards two-handed tasks such as holding down paper with one hand while writing with the other. Fun activities teach small bodies! Examples include monkey bars, hopscotch, throwing and catching balls, dancing, running and swimming.

Fine motor skills are necessary for handwriting so a child can control the pencil in forming letters and use the correct pressure on the pen and the paper. This is where hand and finger activities come in. Consider these: threading beads, cutting paper, construction play, baking, finger painting and playdough.

Is it time to rethink school attendance?

By Catherine Lynch

During the pandemic, school absence was understandably high with some parents and children anxious about going to school and others absent with Covid 19. However, throughout the past year, problems with school attendance remain ongoing.

Historically, good attendance has been extremely important to schools – and to their Ofsted rating. Of course, attendance is also important in a child’s overall attainment and achievement. However, a lot has changed since the post-war schooling system.

Parents may remember the days of attendance awards being given out to those who managed an impressive one hundred percent attendance across the school year. Tough for those whose attendance suffered because of circumstances out of their control. Not to mention children who had a chronic illness or disability and required absences for doctor and hospital appointments. These children would have never had the chance at receiving a one hundred percent attendance award.

These problems are still very much part of school life but now children’s mental health is very much at the forefront of nonattendance at school. In a survey conducted in summer term 2021, the most common reasons reported by the DfE for absence were that:

• pupils were anxious;

• pupils or parents had specific health needs, including those identified at that time as clinically vulnerable or extremely clinically vulnerable;

• pupils had disengaged from education during the pandemic.

The DfE reported that children’s anxieties are often unrelated to school, relating instead to factors such as family members being ill, seeing parents under more stress than usual, domestic violence and financial hardship.

Many employees are entitled to time off due to their mental health but a child needing time off from school because they are suffering from anxiety isn’t always met with the same level of understanding as a physical ailment. To add to the pressure felt by families, if a child is off for a prolonged period of unauthorised time, this can result in a fine.

The School Attendance: Schools Bill Factsheet (http://bit.ly/schoolattend) published by the government last year addresses problems regarding attendance, with a focus on school being the ‘best place for children’s attainment and wellbeing.’ However, it could be argued that the guidance falls short of considering individual circumstances and applies pressure to parents to make sure children, no matter how they are feeling, are attending school.

Catherine is a former UK primary school teacher, now writing for PlanBee (www.planbee.com) about issues affecting teachers, schools and pupils.

What is good attendance?

Of course, a child’s attendance has direct implications for parents and the school’s relationship with a child’s family but there is some argument to say that parents are, in fact, not aware of what constitutes good attendance.

According to the DfE report 2021: ‘attendance data is misunderstood by parents – while ninety percent may be good as a mark in a test, in attendance terms it means one day a fortnight being missed.’

This may come as a shock to some, as the majority would assume ninety percent sounds like a good amount of time spent in school. The DfE describes the hard line some schools are taking with parents:

‘Leaders who are successful in improving attendance and maintaining high levels of attendance over time have expectations that are high for all pupils. They make it clear to parents that parents are responsible for ensuring that their children attend school. Expectations are also communicated as soon as the child joins the school.’

But can good attendance allow children to look after their mental health?

Go to school or stay home?

Parents are encouraged by schools to keep infectious children, suffering from Covid, flu, chicken pox or diarrhoea and vomiting at home. But with such a focus on good attendance, some parents may feel pressure to send children back to school before they are fully recovered.

Additionally, there is a perception that some parents take advantage of the system, taking children out of school for regular holidays or days out here and there. This is where fines play a part in encouraging parents to keep their children in school.

There is, however, a counter argument to this. Taking a family on holiday during the school holidays is expensive and potentially beyond the reach of some families. According to one report by Inews, parents can pay up to sixty three percent more to go abroad in August in comparison to September, when children are back in school.

Yet parents and children work hard and holidays are important in providing the chance to spend relaxed, quality time together away from the usual responsibilities of life.

What is the CPA approach in maths?

By Jemma Z Smith

CPA (concrete, pictorial, abstract) is a maths teaching approach that has grown in popularity in recent years. It involves using tangible objects for children to add, subtract, multiply or divide. They then progress to using pictorial representations of the objects and ultimately, abstract symbols. This way of learning is one of the foundations of Singaporean maths, now being adopted in the UK.

Concrete

The tangible, ‘handling’ stage uses physical objects to solve problems. For example:

There are four buttons in the pot. Stanley has two buttons in his hand. How many buttons are there altogether?

In this problem, the children might first count out actual buttons before moving on to non-related objects such as counters to represent the buttons. Of course, almost anything can be used to help a child master this stage from pencils to plastic pots, to counting beans and coins. You don’t need to spend money on concrete resources to support learning at home.

Pictorial

Next, learners move on to making their own representations. Returning to the example in the paragraph above, the buttons could be drawn as four circles on one part of the paper and two more on another part, representing the pot and the hand. Children can then count each small circle and get the same answer as they would have done with the buttons.

Building or drawing a model makes it easier for children to grasp

more difficult concepts, particularly when working with fractions. It enables learners to see how much of a ‘whole one’ has been shaded in and visualise the problem more clearly.

Abstract

This is where children use abstract symbols to solve maths problems.

Brooke has ten sweets and Millie has twelve sweets. How many sweets do they have altogether?

Children at the abstract stage would be able to solve the problem by writing it out as 10 + 12 = 22.

Before moving onto this stage, children need a secure understanding of mathematical vocabulary; eg ‘altogether’, ‘add’ and ‘plus’ all mean that the numbers are increasing.

Although CPA has three distinct stages, it is always useful to revisit the previous stages to ensure that learners have a full grasp of each concept.

Jemma Z Smith is Director of The Education Hotel (www.educationhotel.co.uk)

Happy holidays with grandparents

By Ellie Malt

There is nothing quite like a holiday spent with grandparents to create surprising and special memories that will last a lifetime. Who knows what we will all discover along the way? Will granny get the hang of TikTok? Maybe the kids will find out what a ‘real’ camera looks like or perhaps we’ll all just learn more about each other. The most important thing though is to have fun and enjoy spending time together. Here are some ways to make it happen:

Choose flexible accommodation

Are you thinking about a villa, apartment or hotel? Small or big resort? Grandparents may not want to spend all their time with the grandchildren and vice-versa so some degree of separate space might be a wise idea. You should also consider access; somewhere with lots of steps neither suits buggies nor anyone who is a bit wobbly on their feet.

Plan together

Involve everyone in the planning by asking for their input and ideas. They’ll appreciate the opportunity to share their experiences and knowledge. Sure, there’ll be compromises along the way but sharing the planning helps set expectations and ensures everyone feels more involved in the holiday.

Eating together

If you are self-catering, who will shop, cook and wash up? Are other options available? It’s worth thinking ahead about fussy eaters, as well as people who need to eat dinner earlier or get up late for breakfast. Planning now can save a lot of awkward negotiation when you’re there.

Make activities age-appropriate

Choose some ideas that will suit everyone’s interests and abilities. A water park might be the best day ever for the kids, while exploring the nearby town or drinking rum cocktails at the beach might be more appealing to parents and grandparents. If you have something special in mind that works for everyone, it might be worth choosing your holiday destination around it.

Sharing the kids

With more adults around, child-free date nights or even days out may be possible but don’t assume this will just happen. Discuss expectations around this. And if the grandparents are left in charge for a few hours, accept that their style may not match your own exactly - it’s their holiday too. Rather than setting rigid ground rules and let them do it their own way; after all, you didn’t turn out so badly!

‘Yes, we did it!’

Plan an adventure day; take a scenic hike or cycle ride or perhaps a kayak. Trying something new is all part of a holiday. If you choose carefully, even with different physical abilities and interests, it can work for everyone. Building in an element of challenge and heading out of your comfort zone together can create a sense of shared purpose and provide a real highlight.

Quiet time

It’s important that everyone is able to have some alone time during the holiday so think about the possibility of me-time for each person. Not everyone feels social all the time so consider the needs of the introverts in the group. Expectations and excitement may run high ahead of the holiday so talking to your kids about quiet-time or afternoon siestas before you go can help things run more smoothly.

Take photos

Document your holiday; everyone can get involved in this. Remember photos weren’t always just for posting on social media! Maybe you can create a photobook or even go old school and frame some group shots. It will give everyone something to look back on in the years to come and help keep those memories alive.

Helping children find their autistic identity

By Rebecca Duffus

When a young person gets a diagnosis of autism, it does not always come with the opportunity to explore their personal autistic identity. Research shows that having a positive understanding of this is an indicator of higher self-esteem and wellbeing as an adult. Thankfully, with the right knowledge and tools, parents can initiate important conversations and support their child’s journey.

So often, autistic young people are told to stop their repetitive physical movements, taught neurotypical social skills and even disciplined purely because of their autistic behaviours. Yet we need to be actively promoting autistic pride and creating communities in which autistic youngsters can understand their strengths and have their needs catered for.

It is important that young autistic people gain a sense of their own unique story and understand feelings of difference and what difference means to them. It helps if they can also learn from the role modelling of other autistic individuals.

Giving children space and time to explore and embrace their autistic identity, in a way that is positive and empowering, is essential for their sense of self and belonging. Here are a few ideas:

Highlight differences in a positive way in everyday life. For example, apples and oranges, pens and pencils, different roles within a sports team. Each share similarities and differences and are equally good and valid. Use these examples to explain the concept of neurodiversity: how some people’s brains simply work differently.

Use visuals to explore autism characteristics and what your child’s unique autistic identity looks like. For example, show pictures related to sensory differences to prompt discussions around over-reactivity and under-reactivity to different senses. The Autism, Identity and Me Workbook (AIM) includes a range of visual prompts and space to personalise each section, so the book becomes truly theirs.

Help them develop a diary or workbook in which they can reflect on their identity. Consider buying personalised notebooks or help them to set up their own system for processing information on an ongoing basis. This could be recording voice notes, videos or typing into a document.

Explore accounts from other autistic individuals, particularly those your child has something in common with, so that they feel represented.

Develop an ‘Autism Identity Statement’ together which your child can use to explain to others what autism means to them.

Continue the conversation and not always verbally: use links, articles and videos. If appropriate for your child’s age, encourage them to watch or follow autism advocates such as The Aspie World, Purple Ella and Chloe Hayden.

For parents, Chris Packham’s recent Inside Our Autistic Minds, available on iPlayer, is an illuminating and informative insight into the minds of young autistic adults.

Follow their lead. You want to develop your child’s autistic pride but it is very important to respect their communication preferences. Do they want to share their Autism Identity Statement with other family members and friends or just with specific people?

Rebecca Duffus is an Advisory Teacher working with students and educators in mainstream and specialist schools, plus local council and education services.

She has created Autism, Identity and Me (AIM) personalised workbooks for young people, with an accompanying guidebook for parents. Together they help autistic young people establish and reflect upon their own unique story. Order from https://bit.ly/AIMbook

The neurodiversity pencil case

Featured in the AIM workbooks, this analogy can help with understanding difference. Sometimes people feel different from everyone else. Imagine a neurodivergent person is a pen within a classroom where the neurotypical pupils are pencils. They might feel like the only pen.

Both the pens and pencils are good at what they do. The neurodivergent people may be different from the neurotypical people but they all share similarities. They are not the only pen…. about one in seven people are neurodivergent!

Create an Autism Identity Statement

Your child can choose who they talk to about autism and what they say but it can help if they have a set phrase to explain what autism means to them. This statement is liable to change over time as they develop their understanding of their autistic identity. Try:

I’m really good at...

I sometimes find it harder to...

When I feel stressed it helps me to...

My superpowers are...

What’s On

If you would like to feature a listing in a future issue email

Places to Go

Celtic Harmony Brickendon, Hertford celticharmony.org

Step away from everyday life and enjoy a magical break with a Family Prehistory Adventure at Celtic Harmony Camp. This summer, you can take an exclusive 3-day 2-night stay between 21 July and 6 August. Wake up in your very own Iron Age roundhouse and spend your days in a variety of workshops and demonstrations led by a team of enthusiastic educators. Try your hand at archery, den building, fire lighting and much more! Visit Celticharmony.org/daysout or call on 01438 718543 for more information.

Chiltern Open Air Museum

Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk

May Day Merriment –

30 April & 1 May

Experience traditional Elizabethan May Day dancing and merriment. Watch a display of firepower, featuring the black powder weapons of the day and a fine display of swordsmanship. Royal Coronation Joust –7 & 8 May

Watch Medieval jousting and visit the living history camp.

Traditional Dancing –13 & 14 May

Watch and take part in traditional Maypole dancing.

Gladiator Games –

28 & 29 May

See a captured British Chieftain take part in the Gladiator Games and fire a mighty ballista.

Terrific Tuesday – 30 May

Themed family crafts and activities all included in the standard admission price.

Footgolf and Pitch and Putt at Panshanger Golf Complex - daily Welwyn Garden City, AL7 2ED  www.better.org.uk/leisurecentre/welwyn-hatfield/ panshanger-golf-complex/ facilities

Choose from Footgolf or Pitch and Putt. 9 holes for £3.50. Daily. Ages 6 to 16.

Tweenie Tuesdays at The Marlowes – Tuesdays

Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1DX 01442 413818

www.themarlowes.co.uk

Go along and colour to your heart’s content, with special weekly themes. 10am to 2pm. FREE.

Splodgers Arts and Crafts at Hatfield House – Wednesdays

Hatfield

timeforsplodgers@gmail.com

Arts, crafts and messy-play sessions for under 5’s in the Coach House Kitchen. First session10am-10.50am. Second session - 11am-11.50am. £5.50 per child. £3.50 sibling (under 1’s free with sibling)

Toddler Tuesday at Hertford Museum – 2 May and 6 June Hertford 01992 582686

www.hertfordmuseum.org

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, contact the museum for more info). Old Macdonald’s Farm – 2 May. Marvellous Minibeasts – 6 June. 10.30am to 11.45am.

Story Time - Little Dinosaur is on a big adventure at South Mill Arts – 3 May

Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

Storytime at the Museum. Enjoy a story, songs and some colouring or craft. Free drop-in, no need to book. 10am.

Living Crafts at Hatfield Park –5 to 8 May

Hatfield 0239 2863871

www.livingcrafts.co.uk

Living Crafts is a one-stop creative shopping experience, showcasing contemporary arts and crafts and celebrating the talents of our most highly acclaimed British designer-makers. With workshops for both adults and children, spectacular craft demonstrations and crass and jazz bands, storytelling and dancing. 10am to 5pm.

King’s Coronation Festival at Hertford Castle – 7 May

Hertford SG14 1PX

www.hertford.gov.uk

To mark this historic occasion, visitors are invited on Sun 7 May to ‘Picnic on the Lawn’ at Hertford Castle. This is a FREE family friendly event with a host of activities for all to enjoy, including a Castle Open Day, garden games, children’s ‘King and Queen’ fancy dress competition, face painting, food and drink, live music, and more. 12pm to 4pm.

The Big Coronation Party on Redbourn Common – 7 May St Albans 01582 794832

www.redbourn-pc.gov.uk

Featuring a fun fair and live music. Bring your own picnic and beverages. 4pm to 8pm.

Make a Roman Oil Lamp at Verulamium Museum – 8 May St Michael’s Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW 01727 751810

www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Wealthy Romans lit their homes with small pottery lamps, fuelled by olive oil. In this clay workshop, you can build your own to take home and try out for yourself. For ages 4+.

Museum Minis at St Albans Museum and Gallery – 8 May and 12 June

St Albans, AL1 3DH 01727 864 511

www.stalbansmuseums.co.uk

Enjoy a story, craft activities and a museum hunt, inspired by a popular story. May: The Cook and the King by Julia Donaldson. June: Look Up! By Nathan Bryon. Suitable for children aged 2-4 years. £5 per child.

Family Arts at The Broadway Gallery – 13 May and 10 June

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 1pm-2pm.

family

World Food Festival – 13 and 14 May

Welwyn Garden City Town Centre

www.wonderfulwgc.co.uk/worldfood-festival

The festival will feature over 30 food stalls producing culinary delights for visitors to taste, live cooking demonstrations, a relaxing picnic area, craft market and fun children’s activities. 11am to 5pm. FREE.

Funfair at Harpenden Common – 25 to 29 May

Harpenden

An exciting funfair on Harpenden Common, a fantastic way to celebrate the Bank Holiday weekend!

Tots Tales at Verulamium Museum – 26 May and 30 June St Michael’s Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW 01727 751 810

www.stalbansmuseum.co.uk

A story, craft activity and a museum hunt, inspired by a popular story. May: Sam plants a sunflower by Kate Petty and Axel Scheffler. June: How to Catch A Rainbow by Naomi Jones. For ages 2-4. £5 per child.

May Half Term Trail at South Mill Arts – 27 May to 3 June

Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

Free museum trail. People have been carrying money in purses and bags throughout history. Can you find some around the museum? Aimed at children aged

Otter Weekend at Paradise Wildlife Park – 27 and 28 May Broxbourne, EN10 7QA 01992 470490

www.pwpark.com

There will be lots of fun events taking place outside the Otter Rocks, the new habitat at Paradise Wildlife Park. This weekend will be part of the general admissions ticket!

5-10.

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.

Dino-ventures Half Term Fun at Willows Activity Farm – 29 May to 4 June

St Albans, AL4 0PF 0333 3312060

www.willowsactivityfarm.com

A ROAR-some family outing with Dinosaurs to meet, fossil finding fun in our giant sandpit, a Dino Hunt around the farm park with a certificate and Jurassic arts and crafts.

Half Term Family Activities at Hertford Museum – 30 May and 1 June

Hertford 01992 582686

www.hertfordmuseum.org

Drop in and take part in arts and crafts at the museum. £3 per child (free places available to low-income families, contact the museum for more info). 10.30am to 3.30pm.

Money that Moves at South Mill Arts – 30 May to 1 June

Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

Celebrate the new King Charles bank notes by designing one for yourself, then make a magic wallet which moves your bank note each time you open it. Drop in between 10am and 2pm, £1 per child.

Foodies Festival at Oaklands College – 2 to 4 June

St Albans 0131 220 3276

www.foodiesfestival.com

Visitors will enjoy a jam-packed schedule of TV cooking show champions and live music. Plus, The Kids Cookery School and Foodies SuperChefs make cooking fun, helping younger guests to prepare delicious food which they can take away and enjoy. 12pm to 9pm.

Cars at the Castle at Hertford Castle – 4 June Hertford SG14 1PX www.hertford.gov.uk

With over 50 exhibiting cars and motorcycles, live music and food & drink stalls it’s a perfect day out for car enthusiasts and all the family. Plus, the Castle will be open for the public to explore. 12pm to 4pm.

SustFest 2023 – 10-18 June St Albans

www.sustainablestalbans.org/ sustfest

This award-winning annual community festival all about sustainable living and the environment. The 9-day festival will see 100s of events across the district.

Stevenage Day at George V Playing Fields – 11 June

Stevenage, SG1 3LR

www.facebook.com/RITPStevenage

The theme this year will focus on arts and culture in the community, the Kings Coronation and the Women’s World Cup with lots of free fun activities, and a main performance area.

Stevenage Festival – 12-25 June

www.stevenage-festival.co.uk

Stevenage Festival provides a showcase for all the exciting talent in the Stevenage area. It involves around two thousand local performers and artists of all descriptions. The core of the festival is a series of performances at Gordon Craig Theatre.

Funfair at Harpenden Common - 17 June

www.harpenden.gov.uk

Summer Carnival brings an exciting action-packed programme of entertainment and activities. With musical performances, food and drink, and an unrivalled atmosphere!

Father’s Day Medieval Jousting at Knebworth House – 18 June

Stevenage SG1 2AX 01438 812661

www.knebworthhouse.com

The turrets and towers of Knebworth House will provide a spectacular backdrop to the costumed knights on majestic warhorses galloping at full tilt across the arena in a fantastic display of horsemanship. There are two scheduled jousting displays at 12pm and 2.30pm. Tickets for this event also include access to Knebworth Park, Gardens, Dinosaur Trail and Adventure Playground.

Pop Princesses

Tues 30th May 6pm

Tickets: £18.50, £24.50 VIP MEET & GREET (Meet and Greet one hour before show)

Four Fairy Tale Princesses perform an array of pop music from Little Mix and Ariana Grande to Taylor Swift and Meghan Trainor, plus music from your favourite films and musicals!!

Fireman Sam

Saves the Circus

Thurs 17th Aug 12pm & 3.30pm

Tickets: £18, £17 child, family of 4 £66

Join Sam, Penny, Elvis, Station Officer Steele and Norman in an all singing, dancing, action packed show. You can become a fire-fighter cadet and then watch the magic of the circus.

selling hot food, drinks, gifts and crafts, as well as loads of free family activities and games. FREE.

Clubs, Classes and Camps

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 information visit website.

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, turn-taking, sharing and listening.

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. For ages 2 to 4.

Dinky Dancers

St Albans, Redbourn, Harpenden 01438 831281

www.dinkydancers.com

Vintage Festival at Welwyn Garden City – 24 and 25 June

Welwyn City Centre

www.jiveswing.com/ wgcvintagefest/

Bringing together over 100 of the finest internationally acclaimed musicians, singers, DJs, performers, swing, lindy hop, jive, rock n roll dancers, dance instructors, swing dance classes, vintage and classic cars, fashion, vintage stalls and children’s entertainers across five stages and arenas. FREE.

The Alban Weekend – 24 and 25 June

St Albans

www.enjoystalbans.com/ albanweekend/

On Saturday, witness the spectacular procession through the City’s streets, telling the story of Alban, England’s first saint. On Sunday, St Peter’s Street will close for around 100 traders

Dance, PE, Music and Action activities for boys and girls aged 2+ yrs. Exploring a new theme each half term, developing Childrens’ social, physical and creative skills. classes@dinkydancers. com.

Gwen Halam Dance Harpenden, Redbourn 07792309401

www.ghdance.com

Exciting pre-school dance classes for boys and girls from 18 months to 4 years. 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.

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

Jigsaw Performing Arts

St Albans, AL1 2QA 01727789441

www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. Classes run on Saturday mornings at the Marlborough Science Academy.

KMDT Self Defence

St Albans, Hatfield

www.kmdt.co.uk

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 trial.

Perform

Various locations in the region 0207 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk

Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Every child can try a free no-obligation class, visit www.perform. org.uk/try.

Venues: St Albans, Harpenden, Welwyn Garden City, Bishops Stortford and Broxbourne. enquiries@perform.org.uk

Toddler Sense East Herts

Ware and Broxbourne 07984 428466 www.toddlersense.com/ hertford-east/

Toddler Sense classes are energetic and fast paced with a mixture of free play time where you’ll find everything from a bouncy castle to soft play, balancing equipment, tents, tunnels and more for them to explore, followed by exciting sensory activities which are designed along a different theme every week. Age 12 months to 5 years.

Libraries

Hertford Library

Hertford, SG14 1DR

0300 1234049

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk

Lego club: Tuesdays (term time only). For children aged 5 and over, 4.15pm-5.15pm. £3 per ticket.

Toddler Tales: Thursdays (term time only) For toddlers and

pre-school children, a lively mix of stories and rhymes. 10.30 –11.30am.

Baby Rhyme Time: Mondays (term time only). A fun half hour session of songs and rhymes suitable for babies and toddlers.

Baby Rhyme Time at other local libraries (FREE) 0300 1234049

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/ services/libraries-and-archives Hatfield (every Fri), Woodhall (every Mon), Welwyn Garden City (every Thur), Marshalswick (every Thur), St Albans (every Tue), Harpenden (every Mon). Baby Rhyme Time helps your child to learn language skills and is an opportunity for you to meet other families too.

Holiday Clubs

Holiday Art Camp at ArtShed –30 May to 2 June

St Albans and Harpenden

www.shedloadsoffun.com Book one or more days of fun, with a different drawing and painting project each day. Children get lots of time for play and take home their very own painting on canvas or watercolour. Ages 6 to 13.

Camp Beaumont

Berkhamsted, St Albans 01603 851000

www.campbeaumont.co.uk The multi-activity holiday day camps provide fun-filled, exhilarating experiences for 3–16-year-olds.

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 holiday club activities, with sessions ranging from Mission Impossible and Sports Action to Cupcake

Heaven and Crafty Creations.

Re:play 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/parentsholiday-club Happy Days

Holiday and Afterschool Club provides a friendly, fun and safe environment together with highquality childcare for all pupils

aged 3-13. Open during school holidays from 8:00am to 6:00pm.

Multi Active School Holiday Club

www.multi-active.co.uk The Holiday Camps provide fun and fulfilling experiences for kids.

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

Premier Education Holiday camps

www.premier-education.com/ holiday-camps Holiday Camps designed to help kids get active, introduce them to new and exciting activities, and create a fun-filled experience they will remember forever. Venues: St Albans, Stevenage, Bushey, Welwyn Garden City and Cheshunt.

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.

Theatre

The Smeds and the Smoos at The Radlett Centre – 2 & 3 May Radlett WD7 8HL 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Soar into space with this exciting adaptation of the award-winning book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. For ages 3+.

I Spy with My Little Eye at Sandpit Theatre – 6 May

St Albans AL4 9NX 0113 2243732

www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Based on the picture book by Steven Lee, this beautifully interactive musical celebrates everything great about being a kid - and everything great about having one. 2.30pm.

Excelmazing at Sandpit Theatre – 20 and 21 May

St Albans AL4 9NX 0113 2243732

www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Students from Excel Performing Arts perform in their brilliant spectacular annual show, with an entertaining mix including ballet, tap, lyrical contemporary dance, jazz, commercial street, hip hop dance, drama and singing.

PQA presents Matilda the Musical Jr at South Mill Arts –21 May

Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Musical Theatre International. 11am, 2pm and 5pm.

Dragons and Mythical Beasts at The Radlett Centre – 23-25 May

Radlett WD7 8HL 01923 859291

www.radlettcentre.co.uk

Calling all brave heroes! Enter a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical new show for all the family. Recommended for ages 3+.

The Little Mermaid at South Mill Arts – 27 May

Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

Expect lots of fun, singing and dancing, all brought to you by a fantastic and energetic company of wonderful performers. 2pm.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears at The Radlett Centre – 29 May

Radlett WD7 8HL

01923 859291

www.radlettcentre.co.uk

This hilarious and spectacular pantomime style show will include some of the very best seasoned performers, top circus and speciality acts as well as all the ingredients of a fabulous family show. 1pm and 4.30pm.

Dinosaurs & All That Rubbish at South Mill Arts – 30 May

Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

A wildly imaginative retelling of this environmental tale, featuring dancing dinosaurs, rock n roll, and a whole lot of riotous fun. 1.30pm.

Pop Princess at Wyllyotts Theatre – 30 May

Potters Bar, EN6 2HN 01707 645005

www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

This is the children’s pop concert with a big difference. A musical spectacular starring four fabulous fairy tale princesses who just love to sing! 6pm.

The Little Mermaid at The Radlett Centre – 31 May and 1

June

Radlett WD7 8HL 01923 859291

www.radlettcentre.co.uk

It’s time to make a splash and join Ariel; her father, King of the Seven Seas; Ursula, the evil sea witch, and a whole host of fabulous characters in this brand-new adaptation.

Pop Princesses at Gordon Craig Theatre – 2 June

Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, SG1 1LZ 01438 363200

www.gordon-craig.co.uk

A musical spectacular starring four fabulous fairy tale Princesses, featuring a soundtrack of top pop hits. 2pm and 6pm.

West End Magic at South Mill

Arts – 3 June

Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200

www.southmillarts.co.uk

An exciting, family-friendly show offering an amazing mixture of

FUN FAMILY ADVENTURES AT GOSLING

magic, comedy and variety acts. 7pm.

Alice in Wonderland at The Radlett Centre – 4 June

Radlett WD7 8HL 01923 859291

www.radlettcentre.co.uk

A fantastic ballet for the whole family, featuring a stunning mix of ballet and circus, much loved characters and superb music, bringing the famous tale to life in this magical production. 1pm.

High School Museum at Wyllyotts Theatre – 15-17 June

Potters Bar, EN6 2HN 01707 645005

www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Troy Bolton the star athlete at a small-town high school, falls for nerdy beauty Gabriella Montez at a holiday karaoke party. Non-professional production by RARE Productions Youth Theatre.

7.30pm.

Open Air Theatre at Hertford Castle – 17 June

Hertford SG14 1PX

www.hertford.gov.uk

With Hertford Castle as its backdrop, enjoy a wonderful day of Open-Air Theatre on the Castle lawn. Family friendly, ‘Wind in the Willows’ at 2.30pm, and ‘A Mid-

Revolution Pro Wrestling: Cruel Intentions 2023 at Gordon

Craig Theatre – 17 June

Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, SG1 1LZ

01438 363200

www.gordon-craig.co.uk

Revolution Pro Wrestling is back as the best wrestlers in the world come to Stevenage for an action-packed evening of entertainment suitable for the whole family. 6.30pm.

Other Listings

NCT

Baby First Aid Course –14 May and 11 June

Hitchin Youth Trust, SG4 9SP www.nct.org.uk

This 2-hour baby first aid course covers CPR, choking, bumps, burns, bleeding, febrile seizures, meningitis and sepsis awareness. Delivered in person at the Hitchin Youth Trust, this course helps give parents and carers valuable baby and child first aid skills. Gain knowledge and learn these life-saving techniques alongside other parents and carers in a welcoming and supportive environment. Session runs from