Families Hampshire North Jan-Feb 2016 issue 12

ISSUE 12 | January/February 2016

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Happy New Year!

• Nursery Feature • New Year New You • Family Law • PLUS all the regular local news and events in your area!

The essential magazine for families with young children in www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 1 Andover, Basingstoke, Hook, Fleet, Alton, Bordon & surrounding areas

Your Child, Their Journey, Our Focus

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes work to build your child’s confidence and inspire a passion for learning.

A Leading Independent Prep School for Girls and Boys 3 - 13 Years

Contact your local Instructor for a free assessment.

Basingstoke North Basingstoke South Fleet

OPEN MORNING

01256 636 233 01256 533 234 01252 759 131

Saturday 12th March 10.00am

kumon.co.uk

01252 405500 registrar@yateleymanor.com www.yateleymanor.com

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

St Nicholas’ School FLEET

•

HAMPSHIRE

An independent day school for boys and girls aged 3 - 7 and girls aged 3 - 16

Open Morning Sat 5th March 2016 10am - 1pm

Open Evening

“Childhood is cherished and each child's uniqueness is celebrated.” st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

01252 850121

Thurs 12th May 2016 6 - 8pm

Open Morning Sat 8th October 2016 10am - 1pm • Small class sizes • First rate facilities • Inspiring teachers • Outstanding results

For more information please contact the Registrar: registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

St Nicholas’ School, Redfields House, Redfields Lane, Fleet, Hampshire GU52 ORF Registered in England Reg. No. 872200 Reg. Charity No. 307341

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Editor’s welcome Happy New Year everyone. I hope you all had a wonderful festive season and are now looking forward to all that 2016 holds in store for you.

In this issue…

For me, it is time to say goodbye as this is my final issue as editor. On page 4 the new editors introduce themselves and tell you what you can expect from them. Already editors of the neighbouring Hampshire magazines in the Families franchise, they know what Families readers like and so I leave you in good hands.

All the best!

Sara

News Childcare & Nurseries feature Education New Year New You! Family Law What’s on

Find us on Facebook and Twitter

Publishers: Rebecca Carr, Heather Bainbridge, Mandy Earle and Sharon Armstrong Cover by:

4 - 5 6 - 9 10 – 11 12 13

14 – 16

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Printed by: Contact details: Editorial and local news

editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Advertising and sales

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Would you like to advertise your business to over 30,000 parents in North Hampshire?

BOOK NOW to be included in our bumper Easter issue!

Call 07789 882467 or email: editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Easter holiday activities and days out, parties, special educational needs and much more!

What’s on, events and diary dates

Heather@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Social, online and digital advertising

Sharon@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Next issue:

March/April Easter Issue

booking & copy deadline is 5th February

Families Hampshire North is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire North is fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. © All content copyright Families Hampshire North.

Disclaimer: We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Data protection: If you send us your name & address in order to win a prize in a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the prize. If you would prefer us not to do this please state this on your entry.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 3

News

If you wou ld like to receive FR EE copies of Families Hampshir e North for your scho ol, nursery o r business please call us on 07789 88 2467.

We would love to ad d you to our growing distributio n list!

New year new team for Families Hampshire North

From this January, Families Hampshire North Magazine has a new management team. The owners of Families Hampshire West and Families Solent East Magazines, Rebecca Carr, Heather Bainbridge, Sharon Armstrong and Mandy Earle have joined together to build and grow the business both in print and online across the whole of Hampshire.

The new dedicated team will be working to increase our distribution and ensure our readers receive the best local information on clubs and classes, parties, education, family health, events and activities for families in Basingstoke, Alton, Fleet, Andover and all the areas in-between.

If you would like to discuss how we can help promote your business in print and online, contact us today for more information.

Call Rebecca on 07789 882467 or email editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Big Garden Birdwatch Last year over half a million people took part in the RSPB's Big Garden Birdwatch, spotting more than 8.5 million birds across the UK, and the organisers are hoping this year's watch will be a record-breaking event.

This year's survey takes part on 30 and 31 January.

To take part, simply spend one hour counting the birds in your garden or local park, and record the highest number of each bird species seen at any one time. The morning is the best time to look, when the birds are out and about feeding after a cold winter night.

To sign up for a free Big Garden Birdwatch 2016 pack, go to www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch.

The new Families Hampshire North team Clockwise from top: Rebecca Carr, Heather Bainbridge, Sharon Armstrong and Mandy Earle.

Book Review The Person Controller

By Emma Berwick, aged 10

This is David Baddiel’s second book - he is the proud author of The Parent Agency. It is about a pair of twins called Ellie and Fred who are different in many ways but both love video games. They play up to date versions of Fifa, Minecraft, Super Mario and a whole lot more. But after their dad sits on Ellie’s controller and she gets a new one, things get a little crazy.

Filled with bullies and magic, I would give it a 10 out of 10. Happy reading!

4 Tel: 07789 882467 | editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Brookham School raises £4,800 for Canine Partners Following a year of child-led fundraising activities, Brookham School in Liphook were delighted to present a cheque for £4,800.00 to Canine Partners, the school’s chosen charity for 2014-2015.

The Brookham children wholeheartedly embraced this charity after meeting two wonderful Canine Partner dogs last year who demonstrated the amazing skills they possess to help disabled people at home, such as taking off a coat, picking up keys and helping to do the laundry. The children were very moved by what they saw, and one boy was so inspired he immediately kicked off the fundraising by donating £8.91 of his own pocket money.

For further information on this worthwhile charity please visit www.caninepartners.org.uk

Pledge to raise a grand for Brain Tumour Research!

Did you know that brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer? Yet brain tumour research receives just 1% of the national spend on cancer research.

The blood-brain barrier stops most standard cancer drugs from treating brain tumours, making them more difficult to combat. Research into the blood-brain barrier is being led

by Professor Geoff Pilkington, lead scientist at one of Brain Tumour Research’s centres of excellence. Professor Pilkington is an international expert on brain tumours and a pioneer in blood-brain barrier research, having created the world's first 'all-human' blood-brain barrier model.

Knowing that the animal model of the blood-brain barrier did not directly relate to the human version, Professor Pilkington has created a unique all-human version using only human brain cells, human brain glioma (tumour) cells and human serum.

This blood-brain barrier model is being used by Professor Pilkington’s group and other researchers for live cell imaging and to provide a basis for the investigation of the features of invading tumour cells. Revealing the precise mechanisms of tumour cells’ invasive behaviour is essential to the development of successful new therapies for this most devastating of diseases.

Brain Tumour Research has also launched the Grand Challenge, a unique fundraising partnership with the Dr Hadwen Trust. The aim is to jointly raise 180,000 to fund a three year research project into the blood brain barrier.

You can help by Pledging to Raise a Grand (£1,000) in whatever way you like, to help fund blood-brain barrier research. For further information, visit www.drhadwentrust.org/grandchallenge

New baby swimming guidelines presented at Parliament

UK swimming class provider Water Babies, together with swimming aid company Splash About, the Amature Swimming Association and standards organisation BSI, have launched some new guidelines at Parliament on swimming with babies.

New warning about processed meats Media attention has once again focused on processed meats as a potential cause of cancer.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said that processed meat such as bacon, ham and sausages do cause cancer. They say that less than a couple of slices of bacon a day – 50g – can increase the risk of cancer of the colon by 18%. Though meat can have some health benefits, the processes used to preserve meats such as curing, smoking, adding preservatives and salting have been shown to be carcinogenic.

Unprocessed red meat, says WHO, is “probably carcinogenic” but there was less clear evidence.

Cooking meats to a high temperature, such as on a barbecue, is also carcinogenic.

Health advice would now seem to say that the occasional bacon or ham sandwich would not be harmful but that frequent consumption is not good for you.

Baby swimming classes have increased in popularity over the past few years and it is estimated that in 2015, 430,000 babies and toddlers up to three years will have been taken swimming. However, older children have missed out, with 45% of seven to 11 year olds unable to swim, despite it being part of the National Curriculum.

Swimming is especially good for babies as it strengthens muscles, helps with appetite and sleeping patterns and helps with heart and lung function.

The new guidelines are to ensure best practice and safety for babies. They say that all classes should have at least one member of staff who has a recognised swimming qualification and one who has a lifesaving and first aid certificate. They should have been checked against police records to ensure they are safe to work with children and should take a Safeguarding Children in Sport class.

The guidelines also state that babies must wear a double layer swim nappy, whether disposable or re-usable and that water should be at 32 degrees for babies from birth to three months old and at 35 degrees for children from three to 12 months. Pool safety should be closely monitored and staff should carry out risk assessments at each pool they use to make sure they meet the best health and safety standards. Swim schools should also be insured for up to £10 million in Public Liability Insurance and professional indemnity protection.

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 5

Childcare & Nurseries

What you need to know when choosing a nursery or playgroup Many mums return to work after their maternity leave finishes and choose to leave their baby in a nursery. Even if you are a stay-at-home mum or dad, it’s likely that when your child is between the ages of two and three years old you will want her to start at a playgroup or nursery school – for both her benefit and yours. But how do you choose the right nursery for your baby?

You can usually get a list of local nurseries and playgroups from your local council, from your health visitor, local library, GP surgery or on the internet. Speak with other mums about the nursery or playgroup you are most interested in, and go along and spend a morning at each group, together with your child. Gut instinct can be invaluable in these situations.

every day? (this is why it’s a good idea to visit more than once on random, different days)

6. Are there varied activities on offer (painting, sandpits, water play areas, Wendy house, play dough, building bricks, puzzles, a dressing up box)? Are these accessible all the time?

7. Do the children look excited and interested in the toys available?

10 things to consider 8. Does the climbing equipment when choosing a nursery: look well-maintained and is there a 1. Are you and your child made to

feel welcome and introduced to the nursery staff, helpers and perhaps to other children? Are you allowed to stay and watch at a time to suit you – not them?

2. Check out the space itself. The room may be a bleak church hall but have the staff made it look lively and interesting?

3. Does the nursery seem too crowded? Numbers are controlled by local authority regulations, and insurance policies, but some playgroups squeeze in extra children 4. Is there somewhere for outdoors play on fine days? Are there books in a quiet corner where children can go and sit? Is there an interactive area, such as a nature table?

5. Check out the toys, equipment and art materials on offer. Are the same toys put out in the same area

soft landing area?

9. What about the staff? Are

they listening and talking to the children? Are they calmly in control? Do they seem to be caring with the children? Do they notice aggressive or painfully shy children and get them to join in constructively? Do they spend more time chatting with each other than with the children?

10. Talk to the staff to find out

their views on discipline, dealing with anxious children and free and structured play to see if their ideas are the same as yours.

The ideal atmosphere at a nursery group should be busy and buzzing, but never out of control. Noisy children racing around or charging up and down on bikes and cars shows a clear lack of organisation.

Another point to consider is whether boys and girls at the nursery are treated equally. Do boys get encouraged to do quiet, creative activities or do they run

6 Tel: 07789 882467 | editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

about in gangs and spend a lot of time on sit-on cars and toys? Are girls encouraged to do physical play and large toy activities? Do boys and girls play together?

Both boys and girls need physical, energetic play, construction play and quiet creative periods with adult attention.

Try to visit a group while a singing or story time session is going on.

Singing sessions should always be varied and fun with lots of action rhymes and percussion and have all the children enthusiastically joining in.

Story time should also be something the children particularly enjoy. The story teller should be able to hold the children’s attention. Story time should not be used as an opportunity for helpers to take the children to the toilet or tidy up.

If you like a particular nursery or playgroup, but feel they fall down in one or two areas, then speak with the supervisor. They may welcome your suggestions and be able to make changes to suit you and your child. If they don’t, then move on and find one that’s more in line with your requirements.

Emma’s Diary is the UK’s most trusted and influential pregnancy and baby channel. Working in partnership with The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) for more than 23 years, they provide parents-to-be and new parents with the very best medical and practical information.

Visit www.emmasdiary.co.uk

Childcare & Nurseries

How to help your child (and you) cope with being apart It can be very upsetting for a parent when their child screams and cries as they try to leave them with someone else, whether it is at a nursery, with a child minder or relative.

At what age does separation anxiety affect children?

Separation anxiety often starts at around the age of eight months and usually improves around the one year mark when children are starting to toddle around more actively and This distress at leaving a parent is have lots on their mind to keep them called separation anxiety and it is distracted and entertained. However, more extreme than just being clingy. the anxiety sometimes returns All babies, at some point or other at around the age of two, when in their development, are likely to children become more aware of their experience separation anxiety in own independence, the world around some format. It is very common and them and their feelings. completely normal. It can happen in phases (sometimes very short ones) and will not last forever. Babies have How to cope with separation anxiety to learn the ability to trust so when a parent 'disappears' if they haven’t A baby who has separation anxiety yet learned to trust, they take it as needs to be constantly and a fearful or threatening situation. convincingly reassured that your Child psychologists liken it to babies absence does not mean you have using their Stone Age instincts. Little gone forever. The only way to prove this is to leave her and come back ones don’t instinctively know they again. are safe at nursery school or with Aunty Jane. To them, when mum There is one school of thought that walks out of the door, they could playing the age-old game of peek-abe eaten by tigers! Of course we boo developed from a need to prove know their tears and tantrums are to babies that mum can disappear... misplaced, but that’s not to say that and come back again. One thing is it isn’t a difficult thing for a parent for sure; parents can’t give up their to witness and cope with. plans or skip going to work because of their child’s tears. Separation is Nobody wants to think that their something children have to learn child is panicking and upset when to cope with. It’s all part of their they are being left with someone emotional journey. different or somewhere new.

There are some practical things you can do to help if your child is showing signs of separation anxiety: Your baby may be comforted by a soft toy or blanket which they associate with you Try to time your leaving spells when your baby is awake and alert.

If she is tired, hungry or grouchy then her tears could get out of hand Practice leaving your child for short spells (15 minutes at a time to start with) with a friend or relative Try to leave your baby with only a small number of regular people and keep her surroundings as familiar as possible If you know in advance which child minder you will be using, invite her over a couple of times to meet your baby with you around or if your baby will be going to a nursery, pay a few short visits there with her before she starts there Have a 'bye bye' routine so saying or waving bye bye to you is a fun thing Never sneak away when she is not looking Always reassure her you will be returning If she is old enough to understand explain you will return after her nap or after her teatime.

Give her a time frame to recognise.

BUT only if you are sure you can stick to it!

When you’ve said goodbye, GO. Don’t nip back or lurk around watching her unless you are absolutely certain you won’t be spotted.

Emma’s Diary is the UK’s most trusted and influential pregnancy and baby channel. Working in partnership with The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) for more than 23 years, they provide parents-to-be and new parents with the very best medical and practical information.

Visit www.emmasdiary.co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 7

Childcare & Nurseries Jubilee Gems Nursery offer their perspective on choosing a nursery

Jubilee Gems is a term-time nursery set in the beautiful Berkshire countryside offering exceptional care for babies to children aged 5. We have a highly regarded reputation for outdoor learning with 53 acres of private woodland and farm for children to explore.

We understand choosing a nursery can be overwhelming. Here at Gems, we have created a home from home atmosphere where parents can feel confident that their children are receiving high quality care. We are small and friendly and it’s something our children and parents love about us.

Children learn through play, so it’s really important to find somewhere that places great value on children

participating in activities they enjoy.

The nursery you are viewing should have clearly established policies and procedures with staff who are able to answer your questions fully. It’s vital to check these are in place and adhered to – you are entrusting your child’s care to others.

Recommendations are a positive sign or try to chat to one or two parents when you visit. Websites like daynurseries.co.uk also have comments on them.

Finally, first impressions are vital.

Is there a welcoming atmosphere?

What are the surroundings like?

Do children look happy and well occupied? Is the atmosphere busy but calm? Many people talk about a ‘gut feeling’ when they are looking for a nursery – we like to think the warmth of our team and setting contribute to that.

“Gems has been a totally brilliant

environment for my children to flourish. Excellent staff and outdoor facilities mean I know my girls are always guaranteed an exciting day whilst I go to work!”(Gems Parent Survey, 2015) To receive a prospectus or to come and visit us, please contact us on 01189 834 018, email info@jubileegems.co.uk or visit www.jubileegems.co.uk School Road, Padworth, Berkshire RG7 4JA

Throughout North Hampshire hs to 5 years children from 3 mont Care for

and preschools Our nurseries raising happy, in s e i l i m support fa dren that are making l i h c t n e d conf being inspired on progress and lifelong learning. of y e n r u o j r i e th 0370 218 7170 brighthorizons.co.uk parentenquiry@brighthorizons.com

Nursery Improvements

Parents can be confident that their child will be as well looked after at nursery as they can at home thanks to a couple of new initiatives.

In the Spring, the Government introduced Millie’s Mark, a scheme which means that every nursery will have first-aid trained staff in the nursery at all times.

Following the death of Millie Thomson who choked and died at her nursery in 2012, her parents Joanne and Dan have successfully campaigned government to ensure that all newly qualified staff with the childcare level 2 and 3 qualification will automatically have training in emergency paediatric first aid or a full paediatric first aid certificate.

Nurseries that reach a ‘gold standard’ of care will receive a certificate to display, known as Millie’s Mark. This will give parents reassurance that

their child is being cared for by a range of trained professionals should something go wrong.

In addition, a report by the Early Years Foundation has revealed that more and more children are achieving a good level of development when they enter infant school, thanks to the care and skills they learn at Nursery. They say the gap between girls and boys is getting narrower and also that the gap between disadvantaged children and their peer group is narrowing, though not by as much as would be desirable.

Chief executive of the National Day Nursery Association, Purnima Tanuku OBE, said: “These latest results show

8 Tel: 07789 882467 | editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

the great work that our sector is achieving, despite all the challenges they are facing with regards to funding shortfalls and difficulties with recruitment.

“The gap between the least and most advantaged children is slowly narrowing, more needs to be done to improve this situation. These results show the importance of sufficient funding for nursery places for eligible two-year-olds, which must be of high quality to make a difference to their life chances.

“With the impending doubling of funded childcare hours for three and four-year-olds, this documented progress must not be stalled by limits on funding reducing the quality of the early years education being received in private, voluntary and independent nurseries.”

Childcare & Nurseries Our featured Childcare and Nursery providers in Hampshire North.

See www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk for a more extensive directory.

Jubilee Day Nursery Jubilee Gems is a term-time nursery set in the beautiful Berkshire countryside offering exceptional care for babies to children aged 5. We have a highly regarded reputation for outdoor learning with 53 acres of private woodland and farm for children to explore. To receive a prospectus or to come and visit us, please contact us on 01189 834 018, email info@jubileegems.co.uk. Our address is School Road, Padworth, Berkshire RG7 4JA www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

The Children’s House We are two accredited Montessori nursery schools for children aged between two and six years, situated in the village hall in Steventon and St. Luke’s Hall in Overton.

A happy, calm and friendly atmosphere exists within the Children’s Houses where children learn life skills and prepare themselves for their future. They discover the joy of learning through hands-on experiences and exploration within a secure environment. Contact mariannepreece@the-childrens-house.co.uk or 07917 110168. www.the-childrens-house.co.uk

A journey of discovery everyday

Bright Horizons Nurseries & Preschools

At Bright Horizons Nurseries and Preschools we are committed to providing world class care and education delivered by a world class workforce. All of our nurseries provide the best possible facilities and resources to enable all children to maximise their full potential. We have nurseries and preschools located throughout North Hampshire which could benefit you and your little one.

For more information please call us on 0370 2187170 or visit www.brighthorizons.co.uk.

St Neot’s School – Tiny Tuskers Nursery •

Educating boys and girls from 3 months in Tiny Tuskers Nursery • Forest school and outdoor education centre in 70 acre grounds promotes independent learning, teamwork and leadership skills • Strong pupil, parent and staff community • Proven academic success • Small class sizes • Wide range of after school clubs and holiday activities www.st-neots-prep.co.uk

A World of Opportunity

Our term-time nursery for babies to 5 year-olds Highly regarded reputation for outdoor learning

Places tly curren le availab

OPEN MORNING

Fri 26�� February 2016 9.30 - 11.30 am Contact 01189 739650 to book your tour

Free Entitlement available for eligible 2,3 and 4 year-olds Contact us to request a prospectus or book a showround Contact Sian on: 01189 834018 info@jubileegems.co.uk Ark House, School Road, Padworth, Berkshire, RG7 4JA www.jubileegems.co.uk

• Independent school for boys and girls, 3 Months - 13 Years, Forest school • Eversley, Hook, RG27 0PN •

www.stneotsprep.co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 9

Education

New Schools

Network Sarah Pearson, interim director of national education charity, New Schools Network, discusses the growth of free schools and why we still need more.

Finding the right school place for your child can seem a daunting process, especially when offer days can feel like a lottery. Pressure on school places may find you competing for places at good local schools that are substantially oversubscribed. For most parents, extreme actions – like moving house to get into a catchment area – is simply out of the question and the reality is that most will not be able to send their child to their first choice, and in some cases will have to settle for their third or even fourth.

Last year, an average of 1-in-5 primary pupils in England were not offered their first choice of school.

In Hampshire, this amounted to more than 34,000 pupils not getting their first choice.

Too often parents have to settle for a school that is not quite right for their child. This is slowly changing though. Since 2011, more than 400 new free schools have been opened or approved to open. These schools

can be set up by charities, groups of teachers, existing schools and parents but only when they can prove that they are both needed and wanted by a local community.

England’s lowest performing local authorities. The school has a music specialism and offers every child the opportunity to play a musical instrument.

Once filled, these new free schools will provide new 230,000 places.

With 75% being judged as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, it’s unsurprising that more and more families are seeing these schools as their preferred option.

In recent months, the government has committed to opening another 500 of these new schools and, with a predicted shortfall of over 5,000 primary places in the region by 2017 and 50% of secondary schools in North West Hampshire rated as Requires Improvement or Inadequate this could be the perfect time for this area to consider what new schools it needs.

The schools that have been created as free schools are extremely diverse, but they are all underpinned by a belief that the best way to raise attainment for all children is by delivering high quality education within the state sector.

There are currently no free schools in North Hampshire, despite the fact that, according to a Populus survey we conducted, 80% of parents in the South East would welcome a new school in their area.

Over the border in Southampton, we have seen Rosewood Free School, a special school for 4-18 year olds, open to great success with their recent Outstanding Ofsted inspection. And across the Solent a group of parents and teachers on the Isle of Wight opened The Island Free School last year. This is a mainstream secondary school that is working to raise standards in one of

10 Tel: 07789 882467 | editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

We are increasingly seeing pressure from parents driving the creation of these new schools – whether by partnering with educational experts to create their own vision or asking existing outstanding schools to expand by opening a new school.

I would say to any parent: if you are unhappy with the choices available, consider how you could demand more.

If you are interested in finding out more get in touch with us here at New Schools Network.

Further information can be found at www.newschoolsnetwork.org

Local Independent School Open Days Alton Convent Prep School, Anstey Lane, Alton. Tel. 01420 82070 www.altonconvent.org.uk Opening morning: 26th February, 9.30am - 12pm Farleigh School Red Rice, Andover. Tel. 01264 710766 www.farleighschool.com Boarding open house: 27th February, 9.30am - 11am Highfield & Brookham School Highfield Lane, Liphook. Tel. 01428 728000 www.highfieldschool.org.uk Brookham open morning: 5th February Highfield open morning: 6th February Rookwood School - Paddock Prep Weyhill Rd, Andover. Tel. 01264 325912 www.rookwood.hants.sch.uk Open day: 28th January, 9.30am - 12.30pm

11+ Top tips from Mary Farquhar of Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards Travelling around the country speaking to tutors and schools the advice to parents is mirrored across the counties: to succeed in a verbal reasoning paper a well-developed vocabulary is essential.

The best preparation for the English element of the exam is to build vocabulary by reading widely: encourage your child to enjoy a range of books and magazines – fiction and non-fiction, of different genres and from different eras.

Never let a good word get away: if your child doesn’t want to stop reading to look up or ask about an unknown word, provide sticky notes and let them mark the word to look up later. Try to use new words in everyday conversation and schoolwork to help them stick.

Make it fun: play word games incorporating a wide range of antonyms and synonyms. Flash cards are a great resource for making up your own competitive and non-competitive word challenges, and are a fantastic way to make those odd minutes on the go count. www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

St Nicholas’ School Redfields Lane, Church Crookham.

Tel. 01252 850121 www.st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

Education

Open days: 5th March, 10am to 1pm & 12th May, 6pm to 8pm St Nicholas’ School Church Crookham educates girls from 3-16 years and boys from 3-7 years and is consistently at the top of the GCSE league tables. It is situated in an extensive rural campus with superb facilities for science, sport, art, music and the performing arts. The school runs an optional extended day from 8am to 6pm with an exciting co-curricular programme. School buses run from Farnham, Basingstoke, Fleet, Alton, and Farnborough areas.

St Neot’s School, Eversley Hook. Tel: 0118 9739650 www.st-neots-prep.co.uk Open day: 26th February, 9.30am to 11.30am • Outstanding Early Years ISI Inspection • Forest school and Outdoor education centre promote independent thinking and teamwork • Small class sizes with classroom assistants up to Year 4 • Strong pupil, parent and staff community • Proven academic success Educating boys and girls from 3 months in Tiny Tuskers Nursery to 13 years Yateley Manor Reading Rd, Yateley Tel. 01252 405500 www.yateleymanor.com Open days: 12th March, 10am

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VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

Call 07789 882467 to receive FREE copies of this magazine for your school, nursery or local business!

Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge Recommended by tutors for the verbal reasoning element of the Durham CEM test

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 11

New Year New You? How to start a new exercise regime when you’re a busy mum

By Sally J. Hall

It seems as soon as Christmas Day is over, two types of advertisement start to appear on the television; the first are for holidays for the following summer, showing gorgeous people in tiny bikinis and trunks, cavorting across golden sands. The others – yes, you’ve guessed it. Weight loss.

It’s no surprise that the fitness industry targets us just as we throw ourselves, groaning with overeating, onto the sofa for a few hours of feelgood films. Their research shows that most people start a new exercise regime in January, with a huge boost in gym memberships around that time.

There is something motivational in having a whole new year to look ahead to and many of us start off with great new resolutions – even if they fall by the wayside by March.

Add to this the complication of being a busy mum – and when, for goodness sake, are you going to find the time for a new fitness regime to shift those few pounds you put on over the winter or to get the baby weight off?

Don’t despair, we have a few great ideas.

Preparation is key

Before you start any kind of exercise routine, check with your doctor (or midwife if you’re pregnant) that it’s OK. If you’ve recently given birth, wait until after your six week checkup. If you had a C-section or other complications, you might want to wait a while longer. Always start with stretches to warm your muscles and don’t overdo anything. If you start to hurt, it’s your body’s way of telling you to stop. Start with a small, short routine and gradually increase the time you spend and the intensity of your work-out.

Let’s swap

Chances are your nearest and dearest may also be feeling the belt pinch. So talk through your desires for a little time to yourself to get a little fitter and suggest you swap.

He has the kids while you go to the gym, for a swim, for a long walk in the woods – whichever you feel you like the most. Then do the same for him another day. If you’re single, could you and a friend swap exercise times?

Do what you like

It may sound obvious but choose an activity you actually enjoy. If you join a spinning class, can’t keep up, end up red in the face and aching all over and dread going back, it’s not the right exercise for you. Try out a few different classes – everything from kick boxing to zumba is available these days, in gyms and church halls – and then pick the one you like the most. If you have joined a gym, you might find it works better to do a different thing each time. Try to include something that gets your heart racing, something stretchy and something that involves weights.

Kids come too

Can’t palm the kids off onto a relative? Want to get a few more steps done this week? Take the kids with you. Go to a local park with scooters and bikes and baby in a pushchair and walk around the outside of the park, encouraging the kids to race you. Not only will you all get an oxygen boost, they will sleep really well that night!

Using baby

If you are stuck at home quite a lot with a very young baby and don’t yet feel ready for the communal changing rooms, try some exercises

12 Tel: 07789 882467 | editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

at home. There are quite a few postnatal exercise DVDs now that start you off gently and most importantly, know how to support and strengthen your body as it returns to your prepregnancy shape. Pop in the DVD, do a few exercises and have your baby on a play mat next to you so that you’re still close. You can even use your baby to strengthen your arms by lifting her over and over – and she’ll love it too!

Quick bursts

The time when your baby naps can be great for a quick burst – one of the hottest new fitness trends right now. Do push-ups against the wall or on your knees, use small weights to tighten arms (tins of beans work just as well), do squats and a few yoga poses for flexibility and strength in your core.

Three of the best postbaby fitness DVDs Pregnancy Health Yoga with Tara Lee - £14.99 A very comprehensive DVD that offers a choice of eight workout routines all suitable for pregnancy.

My Pre & Post Natal Workouts Davina McCall - £34.99 You name the reason for exercise, Davina has made a DVD for it. But she really does know quite a bit about fitness during pregnancy and afterwards.

Post Natal Pilates - Caroline Sandry £9.99 Pilates is a very powerful form of exercise that gives you great strength in your core, abdominal muscles and also has the muscle lengthening effects of yoga.

Family Law

Alternatives

to Court Mediation and the collaborative process are ways to resolve disputes without resorting to Court proceedings, which can be time consuming, costly and confrontational.

Lamb Brooks’ Ann Davies and Laura Bell are both Resolution members. Resolution advocates a constructive and nonconfrontational approach. Ann and Laura both support Resolution’s approach in dealing with family disputes and alternative methods of dispute resolution, including the collaborative process and mediation.

Mediation provides a safe environment to facilitate discussions between you and your partner in an open manner about your finances upon divorce

or separation, or to discuss arrangements for children.

‘‘ Mediation provides a safe

It is no longer possible to make an application to Court to commence financial proceedings, or ask a Judge to make an Order relating to the living arrangements for children without having first attempted a method of dispute resolution, such as attending mediation.

Before you commence mediation, you will be invited to attend an initial meeting with the mediator which will provide you with information in respect of the mediation process, how many sessions you may need and what the associated costs are. It also allows the mediator to review your suitability for mediation, as well as narrowing the issues for discussion.

Collaborative law is an approach, built upon mutual problem solving, where both parties and their lawyers pledge to work together to negotiate an agreement without going through costly Court proceedings. This consists of roundtable meetings together where legal advice remains at hand to advise you throughout.

The collaborative approach can be

environment to facilitate discussions between you and your partner in an open manner ’’ a huge help to divorcing couples, particularly those with children, as collaborative law operates on the idea that every family going through a divorce has its own individual needs. You therefore have the opportunity to prepare your own agenda, and reach an agreement which suits your family, rather than having terms imposed on you by a Court. Ann Davies and Laura Bell are both collaboratively trained to assist you through the collaborative process should you feel that this is the best way to resolve your family disputes.

If you would like more information regarding mediation or the collaborative approach, or would like to book an appointment with Ann or Laura, please contact: Julia McGuigan on 01256 305596 or email her at vhmediation@lambbrooks.com

At Lamb Brooks our dedicated Family Team offers advice and support on a variety of family issues.

We offer practical solutions for:       

Pre Marriage / Civil Partnership Agreements Cohabitation Civil Partnership Dissolution Divorce and Separation Children Financial Disputes Injunctions

Ann Davies Managing Partner

Laura Bell Associate Solicitor

Contact the family team today on: T—01256 305596 E—julia.mcguigan@lambbrooks.com W—www.lambbrooks.com

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 13

What’s On Indoor Fun Disco Tots

Alton Community Centre, Amery Street, Alton, GU34 1HN Ongoing

more to bring his huge and varied collection of equipment for everyone to have a go with. 10am to 12pm and 1pm to 3pm. £4. www.phoenixarts. co.uk

Parent and toddler group, running every Friday during term time. 9.30am to 11am. £2.50 per family. www. altoncommunitycentre. org.uk

Activities at The Lights

Busy Bees Craft Group

15th February

Elizabeth Hall, Raven Road, Hook, RG27 9HH Ongoing

Local pre-school children’s craft group run by parent volunteers. Each session is themed with two crafts shaped around this theme, with playdough and painting also available. Each session incorporates a snack and drink, and a song-time at close. Term time only.

9.45am to 11.15am. £1.50 under 18 months; £3 over 18 months (each additional child is £1). www.hookvillagehalls. org.uk

Disco Skate

The Harlington, Fleet Road, Fleet, GU51 4BY 15th January & 19th February DISCO SKATE bring you family roller disco nights once a month. 6pm to 9.30pm. £6 per person inc. skate hire. www.discoskate.co.uk

Juggling Jake’s New Year’s Circus Skills Workshop

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre, Barbados House, Station Road, Bordon, GU35 0LR 30th January Juggling Jake returns once

West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH

www.thelights.org.uk

Jungle Mania Movement Workshop Join tutor Lauren for 45 minutes of great fun as you learn to dance like the animals and find out if you can become a Jungle VIP. For ages 2-4 years, but must be accompanied by an adult. Older siblings are welcome. Ticket price includes adult and older siblings. 10am. £4.

Kids Country Kitchen Cookery Workshop 18th February

Join tutor Zoe for three hours of home baking including flavoured breads, pies and pastries to take home warm in a basket. For ages 5 to 7 years. 10am & 2pm. £14.50.

Love Bugs

19th February Join tutor Lauren for a fabulous love-themed pop dance workshop, dancing to all your favourite hits.

For ages 5 to 7 years.

1pm. £8.50.

The Gruffalo storytelling workshop 19th February

Take part in the adventure of The Gruffalo in this interactive storytelling workshop, full of fun and make-believe. For ages 2 to 5 years. 9.30am & 11am. £5.

Outdoor Fun Lambing Days

Love is in the Air 16th February

A fantastic love-themed pop dance workshop, moving and grooving to all your favourite hits. For ages 7 to 11 years. 1pm. £8.50.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory a play in a day 17th February

A fun and exciting workshop full of creative activities led by tutor Amanda, culminating in a performance on stage in The Lights auditorium for family and friends. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a packed lunch. For ages 7 to 11 years. 10am. £16.50.

14 Tel: 07789 882467 | editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk

Sparsholt College Hampshire, Westley Lane, Sparsholt, Winchester, SO21 2NF 30th & 31st January A fantastic winter outing to meet our new arrivals – bring the family to enjoy lots of fun activities plus great local food and drinks at this popular annual event. There will be tractor & trailer rides; pony rides; children’s craft activities; tractors & farm machinery; wellie wanging. Free parking.

9.30am to 3.30pm. Sorry, no dogs except recognised assistance dogs. Book online at sparsholt. ac.uk. Health warning: women who are or may be pregnant should not attend this event.

Performances The Central Studio Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke, RG21 3HF www.centralstudio. co.uk

Little Red Riding Hood & Friends

Sat 23rd January, 11am.

Tradition is left far behind in this fast, funny show that uses lots of slapstick and child participation.

A fine introduction to theatre that presents a variety of fairy-tales. The children will be captivated from start to finish.

Fairy Tale Workshop

Sat 6th February, 11am A fun, interactive 45 minute workshop with all 4 members of the cast of Hansel & Gretel! Feel free to come dressed as your favourite fairy-tale character. There will be a 30 minute lunch break before the show begins at 12.15pm. Suitable for ages 5 to 12.

Hansel & Gretel Sat 6th February, 12.15pm

Quirky and engaging, Lantern Light’s charming re-telling of the classic fairy-tale will have you hunting for pebbles, clapping to the polka and singing along with the Forest Song! Adults £10, children £8.

The Haymarket Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW www.anvilarts.org.uk

Basingstoke Gang Show Thu 11th to Sat 20th February, 7.15pm Sat 13th & Sat 20th February, 2pm

If you, your family and friends love great live music and stunning dance performances, don’t miss this! From £12.

We take every care preparing these entries but please check websites in case details have changed.

The Gruffalo’s Child Fri 26th February, 1.30pm Sat 27th & Sun 28th February, 10.30am & 1.30pm

Following hot on the heels of The Gruffalo’s monstrous success comes The Gruffalo’s Child with attitude! Just how brave is she? Find out for yourselves by joining her.

Suitable for ages 3 and over. £13.

The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines

Sun 31st January, 3pm The Rotary Club of Basingstoke & Deane is proud to present its 8th annual charity concert.

From £16.

Orchestra Unwrapped Mon 8th February, 1pm

A specially tailored live concert for children aged 7-11 by the Philharmonia Orchestra, one of the world’s great orchestras, presented in partnership with The Anvil Trust.

Available to school parties only. To book please visit philharmonia.co.uk/ orchestraunwrapped.

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7 to see yo ur event featured on these pages!

The Lights West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH www.thelights.org.uk

Oh Noah You Don’t!

Fri 22nd January, 7.30pm & Sat 23rd January, 2.30pm & 7.30pm Following the success of three previous pantomimes Unity Christian Theatre is pleased to present this original adaptation of the well-known story of Noah, the wise and humble farmer who obeys the call to build an ark and brave the floods in order to save mankind. From £4.

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia presents Swan Lake Mon 25th January, 7.30pm

The greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score.

From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all. From £18.

The Russian State Ballet of Siberia presents Snow Maiden Tue 26th January, 7.30pm

Protected from the outside world by Father Frost, the exquisite Snow Maiden plays innocently amongst the dancing snowflakes in the enchanted Land of Frost. 7.30pm.

Thu 11th February, 7.45pm

Join the nation’s favourite ballroom couple when they return with a thrilling new show for 2016 to dazzle audiences across the UK. £39.50 & £46.50.

The Hollywood Special Effects Show Thu 18th February, 7pm

Get closer to the action than ever before as this interactive and explosive family show takes you behind the scenes of your favourite films to discover the science and secrets of creating movie magic.

Suitable for ages 6 and over. From £15.

nautical escapades. Book now for this swashbuckling Pantomime adventure!

From £8.50.

Holybourne Theatre London Road, Holybourne, Alton, GU34 4EL www.holybournetheatre. co.uk

Jack and the Beanstalk

Sat 30th January to Sat 13th February (various start times – see website) This pantomime is a hilarious take on the wellknown fairy story featuring a host of colourful characters to amuse both the cast and audience alike. The show promises song and laughter, mischief and mayhem, and fun for all the family! From £6.75.

Anton and Erin...Just Gotta Dance The Anvil Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR www.anvilarts.org.uk

Call

07789 88

Nearly New Sales

The Amazing Adventures of Librarian Lil

Tue 16th February, 11am Join Lil as she is transported into other worlds, meeting fairy-tale characters, heroes, villains and even a dinosaur or two. Suitable for ages 5+. £6.50.

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Barbados House, Station Road, Bordon, GU35 0LR www.phoenixarts.co.uk

The Phoenix Players: Robinson Crusoe

Thu 14th, Fri 15th, Thu 21st & Fri 22nd January, 7.30pm, Sat 16th & Sat 23rd January, 2.30pm & 7.30pm Set sail with Robinson Crusoe on an exciting voyage full of pillaging pirates, daring quests and

Basingstoke Aldworth School, Western Way, Basingstoke, RG22 6HA. 30th Jan - 2pm - 3.30pm.

Andover John Hanson Community School, Floral Way, Andover, SP10 3PB. 30th Jan. 2pm - 3.30pm.

Hook Hook Community Centre, Ravenscroft, RG27 9NN. 27th Feb. 2pm - 3.30pm.

Contact tom@ babyandchildrensmarket. co.uk for all of the markets listed above. www. babyandchildrensmarkets. co.uk

www.familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 15

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