Families Hampshire North Magazine November/December 2019 issue 35

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IN THIS ISSUE

Act of kindness advent calendar Talking to kids about climate change Bumper what’s on guide RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle

please call Vicki King 07501 433 922

Issue 35 November/December 2019 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire North

Hampshire North Issue 35 I Nov/Dec 2019

Managing Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk What’s on listings compiled by Katie O’ Brien events@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Next issue January/February 2020 Booking deadline 2 December 2019 Cover image: Depositphotos Printed By Holbrooks Printers Ltd Published 6 times per year We Distribute 18,000 copies in Andover, Basingstoke, Fleet, Hook, Alton, Bordon and all the areas in between. If you would like copies for your establishment please contact us.

Contents 4. News & views 6. Talking to children about climate change 7. A social media guide for parents 8. Top board games to play this Christmas 9. Eco Christmas gift guide 10. Christmas what’s on guide

© Families Hampshire North Magazine 2019 Families Hampshire North is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire North are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Hampshire North. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Hampshire North; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

14. What’s on in November & December 15. Act of kindness advent calendar

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To advertise your business, club, class or nursery in our next issue, Jan/Feb call 07789 882467 or email: editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk Early years care I Education I School open days February half term I Clubs & classes and Holiday Clubs

Distributor Wanted Fleet & Hook area

Are you looking for some extra income? Do you have a few hours spare for 1 - 2 days every two months within school hours?

Vintage inspired knitwear for the modern day baby and toddler

www.etsy.com/shop/emilyandevelyn

2 Families Hampshire North

Families Hampshire North Magazine is looking for distributors to delivery our magazine to local schools, nurseries and family attractions. If you live in the area, are reliable, have a car and would like to earn extra money, please email editor@ familieshampshirenorth.co.uk for more information or send us a direct message Starting January 2020

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A co-educational independent nursery and school (2 to 13 years), building confidence through opportunity

Open Morning Saturday 9th November 10.00am

Yateley Manor

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

St Nicholas’ School

Open Mornings Monday 18th November 9.30am – 12.00pm

Year 3 & Reception Taster Day

fleet • hampshire

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

Small class sizes Inspirational teachers A caring, family ethos Purpose-built facilities Outstanding results ‘Excellent’ ISI Inspection

• School buses run from Alton, Bentley, Basingstoke, Bramley, Chineham, Hook, Old Basing, Odiham, Hartley Wintney, Fleet, Farnham, Rowledge, Yateley, Camberley, Farnborough and Aldershot

8th November 2019 8.45am - 3.45pm

Senior Entrance Exams 10th January 2020 T. 01252 850121 | E. registrar@st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk @stnicholasschool |

@stnicholasfleet

st-nicholas.hants.sch.uk

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Families Hampshire North 3

News

The Tiger Who Came to Tea hits the screen this Christmas The Tiger Who Came to Tea, the classic children’s book by Judith Kerr, will come to TV this Christmas adapted as a half-hour animated film for Channel 4.

It will feature a star studded cast of voices including Benedict Cumberbatch, David Oyelowo, Tamsin Greig, David Walliams and Paul Whitehouse.

The role of Sophie will be played by 7 year old Clara Ross, who will be making her TV debut.

Letter from Santa All children love to receive a letter addressed to them in the post, but what could be more special than a letter from Father Christmas?

Here are two ways of making this happen.

Royal Mail Letter to Santa For children to receive a FREE letter from Santa via the Royal Mail children must post their letter to Santa by Friday 6 December.

Envelopes must have either a first or second class stamp and be addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. The letter must include your child’s full name and address.

Visit www.royalmail.com/christmas/lettersto-santa NSPCC Santa Letter Children can also receive a personalised reply from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a minimum £5 donation to the charity. The letter is ordered online and must be placed by 9 December.

Visit https://letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk/ letter-from-santa for more information.

For anyone that doesn’t know the book, it tells the tale of the tiger that shows up at young Sophie’s front door and proceeds to eat the family out of house and home, even going so far as to drink all of the water out of the taps, before declaring: “Thank you for my nice tea. I think I’d better go now,” and departing.

Chloe Tucker, Commissioning Executive, Channel 4 Drama said: “The Tiger Who Came to Tea is a timeless classic, and we hope this film will capture the same special place in every family’s imagination watching it.”

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance call on children to support their New Schools and Youth Campaign Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance (HIOWAA) is calling on schools, clubs and youth groups to help keep their paramedics ‘life-saving ready’ by taking part in their new education campaign; Learning Saves Lives.

It costs the Charity £6 per day to fund the training of one Critical Care paramedic over the course of a year. With the help of 4-to-16-year-olds across the region, HIOWAA aims to raise £30,000; enough to train 15 of their paramedics. The Charity is encouraging schools and youth groups to raise funds by hosting non-uniform days and dress up days.

Schools and clubs interested in getting involved in Learning Saves Lives should visit the Charity’s ‘Get Involved’ website page, where they can find fundraising packs with interactive resources to help young people with their fundraising: www.hiowaa.org

Home from home with Chilly Powder

Step up for Safe Streets UK Road Safety Week 2019, takes place between 18 and 24 November, will encourage road users to ‘step up’ and play a part in the creation of a safe and healthy future on our roads.

Every 20 minutes, someone is killed or seriously injured on a British road, yet each of these tragedies is preventable.

This year, the annual event aims to encourage everyone to Step Up for Safe Streets and learn about, shout about and celebrate the amazing design-led solutions that can help end suffering on our roads.

The focus is on how design can stop human error from causing death or serious injury on the roads, can encourage walking and cycling, and can make sure that the air is clean.

For more information and to get your free Action Pack, visit www.roadsafetyweek.org 4 Families Hampshire North

Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… or both?

Francesca, Paul and their three children live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities, with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities. For many returning guests Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home.

Visit www.chillypowder.com for more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter.

Building confidence in early years at Yateley Manor School The focus in the Early Years Foundation Stage is on “foundation” – building a firm base upon which the children can flourish. Children only get one chance at an education and they each deserve to be treated as individuals. Building confidence, not only across the curriculum but also in themselves, is key for children as they prepare for successful adult lives and the journey starts with their first day.

At Yateley Manor the journey can now commence at the age of two in their new provision within the Nursery. Every child is treated as unique with the very best relationships built by adults in an environment which is wholly enabling. Above all, children will be happy. A bespoke setting within the grounds of the school, the nursery has an extensive outdoor area and indoor opportunities to challenge and support every child. Visit www. yateleymanor.com or come along to their open morning on 9th November.

familiesonline.co.uk

Enjoy a Wonderland themed Christmas at Marwell This year Christmas at Marwell takes families into a curious world of topsy turvy delights with a fairy tale Alice in Wonderland theme, available on selected dates from 16 November to 24 December.

This year, Marwell Hall will be turned into a wonderland of whacky delights to offer a Christmas experience with refreshments fit for the Queen of Hearts, a tea party with Mother Christmas as she recounts a curious tale and an elf workshop where little ones create a ‘magical’ elf door. Children then get to meet Father Christmas and receive a surprise gift.

Daytime sessions, 10am-2.25pm include all day zoo access, a Christmas ‘wonderland experience’ and a new Cheshire cat trail to take part in. Evening sessions, 4–6.15pm include a special Mad Hatter character welcome, an illuminated train ride aboard the ‘woodland express’ to Marwell Hall, a Christmas ‘wonderland experience’ and regal garden games. For more information and tickets visit www.marwell.org.uk/christmas

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An image of a critically endangered Amur leopard from Marwell Zoo has been used for a brand new pair of garden shoes, and Marwell receives a donation to its wildlife conservation charity for each pair sold. Dorset-based Backdoorshoes are vegan, lightweight, durable, waterproof outdoor shoes, perfect for the garden. A great idea for a Christmas present! Available online in sizes UK 3 - 8, £26.95 including postage. Visit www. backdoorshoes.co.uk to order.

News

What am I feeling?

Defining emotions by local author Katie Flanagan

What am I f

eeling?

Defining emot

ions

What am I feeling? is a children’s booked aimed at helping children to learn the language associated with common everyday feelings therefore helping children to increase their emotional literacy skills and vocabulary. It is ideal for parents, teachers, grandparents and anyone working with or caring for children to help them understand what they are feeling and how to communicate it positively.

There are questions that can help give to ideas of how to prompt discussion about the different emotions, their names and when we experience them. There are also some ideas and suggestions of strategies or ways of helping children find their own strategies, to support them in knowing what to do when they get these feelings.

This book can be used with your child at whatever stage you are at with emotional literacy. You can use the following sections flexibly as appropriate to your child’s needs and level of understanding. There is also an accompanying activity journal available for your child to personalise so they can develop a deeper understanding and reflect on their own emotional experience.

Katie Flanagan is a local author and Special Needs Coordinator.

She developed the idea for books from her passion for teaching children emotional literacy skills and recently won the international Bookfest Award for ‘What am I feeling? Defining emotions‘ in the category of children’s mind body and spirit.

What am I feeling? Defining emotions is available from www. amazon.co.uk or www.waterstones.com and is priced at £6.99.

With a highly regarded reputation, Jubilee Day Nursery provides exceptional care for babies and children from three months to five years of age.

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Families Hampshire North 5

Parenting

Talking to children about

climate change Valentina Gianella

Being a parent is a tough job. The trickiest part is making sure we tell our children the truth, without simultaneously causing them to be either over-anxious or delusional about the future. It applies to an extensive range of aspects in life, and climate change is a relatively new but undeniable one.

My children were 10 and 7 years old when we first started talking about the environmental challenges facing humanity. Even as a journalist who has dealt with such topics for years, I was frankly terrified of this task. Writing an article is one thing: facing their worried questions was entirely another.

Then, a young girl showed up. Greta Thunberg was everywhere online, with her yellow raincoat and a straightforward concept: we have to DO something to save our planet, or there’s going to be trouble. Action: that was the key. If you know that there is something you can do about a problem – even the smallest thing, anything that is within your power – you feel less hopeless. Less scared.

Here are some of the questions that children and their parents have been asking me about Climate Change and the answers that seem to help them.

My child gets anxious about the future of humankind: what should I say?

Talk frankly, but also help them understand the everyday actions that we can all take to tackle the main issues

related to Climate Change. Action is the best cure for fear. Stop using disposable plastic; start using re-fillable water bottles; make sure you recycle correctly; re-use; exchange instead of buying new things; save energy; save water; walk and cycle more; use public transport or shared transportation. Show your child we can all make a difference and that if everyone does the same, the future looks more positive.

“What is climate change?”- How to answer The earth is our home, and it is nestled within a precious shelter that is called the atmosphere. Inside the atmosphere, we and other creatures can breathe and live. For nearly 200 years we have used something called fossil fuel (carbon and oil), which we burn in order to fuel our working world, in everything from factories to transportation. Every time we burn fossil fuels, or cut down trees, the atmosphere temperature rises a tiny bit because the gas (mostly a gas called carbon dioxide) that comes from this burning becomes trapped inside the atmosphere. This means the earth cannot release the heat that it receives from the sun. This is called Global Warming.

As the temperature rises, the climate changes. This brings heavy rains or severe drought, diverts the sea currents and disrupts the natural habitat of many species. It also means that the sea level is rising due to the ice melting in the Poles. All of these are the main effects of Climate Change.

What can help me communicate the key facts to my child?

It helps to introduce a hero character that allows children to engage their imagination while they absorb abstract information. Greta Thunberg is a perfect medium for these concepts. Discover other children who have also made a difference – like William Kamkwamba, who inspired the book and film The Boy 6 Families Hampshire North

Who Harnessed the Wind.

Who is Greta Thunberg?

Greta is a child who loves to be “in the know” about what is happening to our planet.

She comes from a family of scientists and artists, she has studied the facts, and she is not afraid of being in the spotlight.

This combination worked well when she decided it was time to speak out and gain attention from the world about the danger we are facing and what we should be doing to avoid it.

Where can we learn more about this?

Sometimes, the news can be challenging for children to understand because it only illuminates part of a problem. Also, some headlines can be scary. Suggest that your child come to you with their questions and look for scientific sources together.

Bookshops and the internet (reliable websites such as www.climatekids.nasa. gov) can give a wider view. Look for sources that have been translated in a way that is understandable for younger ages.

Valentina Gianella is the author of We Are All Greta: Be Inspired to Change the World published

by Laurence King and is available from www.amazon. co.uk, www. laurenceking. com and all good book stores.

ISBN: 9781786276131 £9.99 familiesonline.co.uk

A social media guide for parents

Parenting

Most parents are aware that social networking is hugely popular with children.

A recent report by Ofcom – the UK communication’s regulator – has found that despite age restrictions, half of children ages 11 and 12 have a social media profile and a growing number of children under 11 years are registering for social media accounts.

What’s more, less than a third of parents who knew their child had a social media profile could correctly state the minimum age restrictions of the social networks.

Social networking can be seen as being very ‘cool’ by children and they may be pressured by their friends into joining. However, there are some very real dangers: Grooming - when someone builds an online relationship with a young person and tricks them or pressures them into doing something sexual.

Access to age-inappropriate content which can take the form of images, music or commercial advertisements.

Damage to self-worth. While social media was set up as a means of connecting with others it is now also used as a means of comparing with others and to many young people it has become a barometer of how they measure up. A preoccupation with how other people react to what they post can lead children to feel unsure about their intrinsic worth.

Cyber bullying - rife on the internet and most young people will experience it or see it at some time. It can take many forms.

Harassment - via offensive, rude, and insulting messages and abuse, or nasty or humiliating comments on post, photos and in chat rooms.

Denigration - when someone sends information about another person that is fake, damaging and untrue.

Identity theft - hacking into another person’s social network account and using the person’s identity to send or post vicious or embarrassing material to/about others.

Cyberstalking - may take the form of repeatedly sending messages that include threats of harm or harassment.

More information is available at www.ofcom.org.uk/researchand-data/media-literacy-research/childrens and www.netaware.org.uk

To help parents protect their children, we have put together a short guide on the most popular platforms with the various age safety ratings so you can decide if your child is equipped to deal with the interactions that may arise. Keep in mind that the best online safety strategy is to talk with your children and to engage with their use of social media.

Facebook and Messenger

A social network which lets you create a page about yourself.

You can add friends, write on people’s pages, join groups, share photos and videos, and play games. Facebook Live lets you broadcast live videos of yourself using the mobile app.

Messenger allows you to instant message in group chats or one to one, using text, audio, photos or videos. You can share your live location with friends. Official age rating 13+

Instagram

A picture and video sharing app. Users can post content on their profile grid or to their stories, which last 24 hours. You can follow your friends, family, celebrities and companies on Instagram. It also has a live streaming feature. Official age rating 13+

Snapchat

This app lets you send photos, short videos or messages to your friends. Pictures and videos, known as Snaps, usually appear temporarily before disappearing, though they can be captured via screenshots. The Stories feature lets you share Snaps in a sequence for up to 24 hours. Using the Discover screen, you can watch Stories from friends, celebrities and brands. Official age rating 13+

WhatsApp

An instant messaging app which lets you send messages, images and videos in one-to-one and group chats. You can choose to share your live location for up to eight hours with one contact or a group. Official age rating 16+

YouTube

YouTube lets you watch, create, share and comment on videos.

You can create your own YouTube account, create a music playlist, and even your own channel, which means you’ll have a public profile. YouTube allows live streaming. Children under 13 cannot create an account and children aged 13 to 17 must have parental permission. Official age rating 13+ familiesonline.co.uk

Families Hampshire North 7

Family Christmas

Top board and card games to play

this Christmas

Christmas is the time to dust off your favourite games to play at home with your family and friends. With a flurry of new games hitting our living room tables during recent years, the games market has seen something of a revolution. Now there are hundreds of games available that employ brain-teasing strategies and flex your investigatory muscles.

Claire Winter has picked some family board games that will help entice your children away from gadgets this festive season.

Sherlock Holmes - Consulting Detective Thames Murders game Gather your loved ones, and don your deerstalkers to play this fun mystery game. You have to solve the case by interviewing witnesses, and tracing their steps through Victorian London. This is very much a challenge of the mental ability of the players, rather than a game of chance. The details are well-researched and give you a real sense of a bygone era. £34.90 Amazon

The London Board Game

Monopoly Cheaters Edition

Pictionary

The complexities of the London Underground system make this a great brain-challenging game for players of all ages. The board itself is the London Underground map, so while enjoying the race, you’ll also learn more about London.

Players must visit six of London’s sightseeing hotspots, and the winner is the first person to get back to the mainline station where they started.

The new Cheaters Edition of Monopoly brings a fresh twist to the property trading game that was initially designed to warn players about the dangers of capitalism. This version encourages cheating and subterfuge! It includes 15 cheat cards that allow players to steal money from the bank and avoid paying rent.

This drawing game has been a firm favourite since 1985. The latest edition has been updated with two levels of clues for adults and younger children, making it a fun game for all ages. It also has wipe clean markers and boards. Mattel has also released Pictionary Air, which uses an app and augmented reality, but I prefer the old school version!

£17.74 Amazon

£21.99 Amazon

£30 www.ltmuseumshop.co.uk

Dobble

Chess and Draughts

Speech Breaker

Nudge

This fun picture card game is very popular in our house and it’s really addictive. It depends on speed of observation as players have to match one icon from a group on a card that matches the same icon in a group on another card.

This simple premise then forms the basis for five short minigames, alternatively asking you to collect or discard cards as quickly as possible. Younger eyes and reflexes are at a definite advantage which means your 5 year old will beat you fair and square!

According to academics, chess boosts intelligence and creativity, so this Christmas teach your children the tactical games of Chess and Draughts to improve their mental agility. These timeless games are also a great way to share one-on-one time with your child.

This challenging game for children age 14+ is great fun. You have to put on the game headset, talk into the microphone, and get your teammates to guess who, what, where without saying any of the words on the cards. But… the microphone jams your speech with a built-in delay. As you talk, you’ll hear your delayed voice through the game headset, making it harder to speak clearly. Really hilarious!

Nudge is an incredibly simple, yet insanely addictive strategy game for children age 14+ designed to send you and your opponent over the edge. Designed with the environment in mind, the game is made from 100% recyclable materials including the game board, single-colour packaging, and fully biodegradable game discs.

£19.99 Amazon

£9.99 www.nudgegames.co.uk

£25.52 Amazon

£12.99 Amazon

8 Families Hampshire North

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Family Christmas

Eco Christmas Gift Guide

By Claire Winter

2019 has definitely been the year to think about over-consumption; households around the country have gone Marie Kondo crazy, getting rid of unwanted clutter. Many people are also avoiding buying plastic or fast fashion and thinking about the things they purchase and consume. So why don’t you consider buying some eco-friendly presents for your nearest and dearest this festive season?

BABIES Baby Car Seat Wrap

This stylish, organic, baby car seat wrap is the perfect present to give parents peace of mind on winter car journeys. The ladies behind Kura Organics realised that taking their newborns out in the car was more stressful than it should be. They found the amount of safety advice about how to dress babies for travel overwhelming, so they created this cosy wrap. Not only does it keep little ones warm and safe, it looks gorgeous too. £49.99 www.kura-organics.com

Sophie la Girafe Comforter Gift Set

This charming gift set featuring an original Sophie la girafe® and comforter is a lovely gift for baby’s first Christmas. The 58-year-old icon is loved by millions and is still made using traditional methods from 100% natural rubber, derived from the sap of the hevea tree, and decorated with food grade paint. £29.99 www.1two.co.uk

TEENS KIDS My First Giant Bubble Kit

You can never be too old to play with bubbles. Dr Zigs is made in the UK by a small, Snowdoniabased company. The bubble mixture is fully biodegradable and palm oil and phosphatefree. It also comes in 10x concentrate to massively reduce packaging, while the 25cm wooden wands and rope used to create the bubble are made from sustainably-sourced wood and unbleached cotton. They even make bubbles for dogs! £19.99 www.drzigs.com

Tepee

The Little Green Sheep Teepee is a great gift for kids with a big imagination.

This beautifully designed playhouse with a striking scalloped edge is made out 100% cotton canvas and wood. This great company ensures all of their products are natural and chemical-free.

Once playtime is done at home, the Teepee adventures can continue on your travels, because each one comes with a handy cotton travel bag. £89.95 www.thelittlegreensheep.co.uk

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The Bear Grylls Snorkel Experience for Two

Buy an experience for your teen instead of an actual gift. The Bear Grylls Adventure at the NEC in Birmingham is an experience they will never forget. Snorkel with some not-so-deadly Black Tip Reef Sharks and other marine life protected by a see-through snorkel cage. Plus, a percentage of every dive is donated to the Shark Trust to help shark conservation. £90 www.redletterdays.co.uk

ili Laptop Stand

This funky, portable laptop stand is the brainchild of engineer Celine Kerr and her husband Zeno. The ili is a versatile and elegant laptop stand. It is made out of natural, sustainable materials and also helps to improve posture when working from a laptop, plus it’s light and portable.

A fantastic gift for a teenager or adult, who loves to spend hours on their laptop. £39.99 www.ililaptopstand.com

TODDLERS Bamboo Hungry Kids Set

Make dinnertime roar-some with this cute plate, bowl, and cup set. Dinosaur lovers will relish munching their meals from this cute, eco-friendly set. All pieces are made from plant-based materials, including bamboo and corn starch, making them fully biodegradable, and super-safe for kids. They’re also fully microwave and dishwasher proof. £14.99 www.prezzybox.com

ABC Wooden Blocks

A classic alphabet and numbers blocks set. Beautifully crafted from solid rubberwood, all the edges are smooth so they are easy to handle. This chunky set features pastel designs of upper and lower case letters as well as numbers from 0 to 9. Every block is hand screen-printed, which makes each one unique. Designed to help strengthen motor skills, critical thinking, develop pre-reading and early counting skills, this is a beautiful, educational toy made out of sustainable materials that will give a toddler hours of fun. £29.99 www.letoyvan.com

MUM AND DAD Blue Goose Coffee

Perfect for coffee fans, this new range of speciality, single-origin, and organic coffees in innovative plastic-free, compostable starch and wood bark capsules are perfect to go in coffee machines. Compatible with Nespresso® original coffee pod machines, these innovative capsules turn into compost within twelve weeks. £18.99 www.bluegoose.coffee

Pukka Herbal Tea Christmas Advent Calendar The perfect advent calendar for all tea lovers, featuring 24 Pukka organic herbal teas.

Inspired by the power of plants, Pukka’s Christmas Calendar is a healthy alternative to chocolate-filled advent calendars! £9.99 www.waitrose.com

DIYogi Yoga Mat

The ideal present for a yogi or yogini. The world’s first yoga mats that people can write and draw on using markers. You can custom design your own mat or add designs before you give the gift. For every mat sold, £1 is donated to Clear Blue Sea, a not-for-profit organisation, which develops an automated solution to remove large quantities of plastic in our oceans without affecting ocean wildlife. £77 www.diyogi.com Families Hampshire North 9

What’s on Your essential guide to family events in November & December compiled

by Katie O’Brien.

We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

If you would like to include your event in our next issue email it to events@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk by 2 December.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON 15 November Andover Christmas Lights High Street, Andover, SP10 1NX Live music from fabulous local choirs and singers throughout the night culminating in the switching on of the Christmas Lights and a fabulous firework display. 5-7.30pm.

15 November Christmas Lights Switch On The Malls, Basingstoke, RG21 7QU Switch on at 6pm.

FAMILY SHOWS AND PANTOMIMES 30 November – 6 January Dino Discovery with the World of Dinosaur Roar!

Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Immerse your family in dinosaur exploration this Christmas at Winchester Science Centre. See page 11 for full details.

6 – 8 December Dear Santa The Haymarket Theatre Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NG Santa is determined to deliver the most fantastic Christmas present to Sarah, but he doesn’t get it right straight away! With the help of his cheeky Elf, he finally settles on something ‘perfect’, just in time for Christmas Eve. Fri 1.30pm, Sat and Sun 10.30am and 1.30pm. £15.50 (includes booking fee).

10 & 11 December A Christmas Carol Milestones Museum Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Step back into Victorian England to be enthralled by Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol in the streets of Milestones Museum. Remember to bring your own low-backed seating and come along early to secure your spot and enjoy the museum before the performance begins. Tuesday 7pm, Wednesday 1pm and 7pm. Tickets: Adults £15, Children (15 and under) £9, and Family £40.

12 – 28 December Aladdin The Harlington, Fleet, GU51 4BY A pantomime filled with adventure, fun and a magic carpet, Various times.

Adults £18, child/concessions £16, family (2 adults 2 children) £60.

12 December – 5 January Aladdin The Anvil, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR Jump aboard the magic carpet and follow Aladdin, his hapless brother, and of course his mother Widow Twankey, on a fearless quest to stop the evil Abanazar from ruling the world. Various performance times depending on date 10.30am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm and 6pm. £29, £28, £25, £20 (includes booking fee).

14 – 24 December Father Christmas’ Christmas Workshop Proteus Theatre Basingstoke, RG21 3DH A magical walkthrough adventure where children are encouraged to explore, play, create and interact with the enchanting surroundings and the colourful characters they meet along the way. £10, under 12 months go free.

WHERE IS SANTA? 23 November – 24 December Magical Christmas Adventure 4 Kingdoms, Headley, RG19 8JY Enjoy a magical Christmas adventure with a two-hour interactive storytelling journey, where you’ll ride on a sleigh, see some magical animals, watch a light show with the elves, visit the toy factory where you can build your own bear, make some cookies and then meet Santa and Mrs Claus! Adults from £15, children from £27.50.

16 November – 24 December Christmas at Marwell Marwell Zoo Winchester, SO21 1JH Make your family’s Christmas magical!

Join Jingle the elf and some of his new friends in ‘Wonderland’ as you step into a curious world of topsy-turvy delights.

There are daytime and evening experiences available. See website for times and prices.

Christmas at Paultons Park Visit Paultons Park from Saturday 23rd November (selected dates until 24 Deecember) and celebrate Christmas in a world of twinkling illumination, seasonal music and a giant musical Christmas tree.

Discover magical scenes inside Santa’s Grotto as you join a reindeer on his journey to find Santa in time for Christmas Eve. Visit the Park’s state-of-the-art 4D Show Street Cinema and follow the journey of Thunder, a young ginger cat who faces adventure at every turn in the new fun-filled film, The House of Magic.

Peppa Pig World will also be transforming this Christmas season as Peppa Pig and George wrap up in their winter outfits, giant Christmas trees appear as well as Santa in his sleigh from the TV series.

Selected rides and attractions will also be open during the Christmas season.

Visit paultonspark.co.uk for further information and to book.

23 November – 23 December Santa’s Grotto at Paultons Park Paultons Park, Romsey, SO51 6AL Meet Santa in his magical Grotto and many of his animal friends along the way as they all get ready for Christmas Eve. Adorable animated characters greet you at every turn with twinkling lights and magical scenes brought to life. All visits must be pre-booked. Park entry included with booking, rides and attractions open from 10am (excluding Fri 20 Dec Park open from 12—7pm).

24 November – 24 December Santa’s Grotto Dobbies Garden Centre, Salisbury Road, Andover, SP11 7DN Bring your little ones along to explore the magical setting, be welcomed by Santa himself and receive a special gift.

Various times. £11.99 per child.

30 November – 24 December Breakfast or Tea with Santa Dobbies Garden Centre Andover, SP11 7DN Popular family event includes breakfast or tea for each child followed by fun activities and a gift from Santa himself.

This event is suited to families with children aged 12 years and under.

Breakfast: 9am – 10.30am, Tea: 4pm – 5.30pm. £13.99 per child, from £5.99 per adult (depending on the breakfast or tea required).

30 November & 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21-24 December Santa Specials The Watercress Line Alresford, SO24 9JG See Santa on a magical steam train ride along the scenic Watercress line. Various times 9.45am – 5.45pm.

Adult £18, Child (1-16 years) £18, Baby (under 1 year) £10. Advanced booking is essential.

30 November – 24 December Magical Christmas Finkley Down Farm Andover, SP11 6NF Lots of Christmas activities for the kids to enjoy. Various prices. See their website for full details.

5 & 6 December Reindeer on the Roof The Lights Theatre Andover, SP10 1AH Join Darcy on her epic adventure to get her new Reindeer friend back to Lapland where he belongs and discover the true meaning of Christmas along the way. 10.30am and 1.30pm. £8.

7, 8, 14, 15, 21, & 22 December Santa’s Grotto Milestones Museum Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Visit Santa and his elves in their magical grotto deep in the heart of Milestones. Meet Santa and receive a special festive gift, then create a glittering decoration to take home for your own Christmas tree. Book a session between 11.45am – 4.15pm. £7.50 per child plus general admission to the museum.

7 – 24 December Santa’s Science Grotto Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Join us for a Christmas experience like no other and spark curiosity in your little ones with this fun-filled festive family day out! Experience the magical setting of our Christmas grotto and meet Father Christmas. After sharing their all-important Christmas wish lists with the man himself, children will receive a wrapped gift to take home. £8 with general admission.

Theatre, music, comedy, family shows, events, disability arts, choir, talks, fitness, workshops, classes, films, festivals and much more

The Christmassy Christmas show of Christmassy Christmasness!

Saturday 14 December, 11am & 2pm Barbados House Station Road, Bordon, GU35 0LR 01420 472664

www.phoenixarts.co.uk 10 Families Hampshire North

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21 December Santa’s Christmas Countdown The Lights Theatre Andover, SP10 1AH Santa’s Christmas Countdown is an interactive family show, particularly suitable for 2-7 year olds. Afterwards the adventure continues as each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a specially wrapped present.

10.30am, 1.30pm and 4.30pm. Adult £10, Child £9.

23 December Frozen - interactive music and movement workshop The Lights Theatre Andover, SP10 1AH Come dressed as your favourite ‘Frozen’ character and join Amanda to have fun with the music and explore the wonderland of the smash hit film!

Ages 2-5 years. Workshop is approx 1 hour. 9.30–10.30am. £5.50.

23 December Father Christmas’ Flying Visit The Hawk Conservancy Trust Andover, SP11 8DY Father Christmas and his magical team of owls will be stopping at the Hawk Conservancy for this special family event. Christmas crafts and festive story-telling. Tickets include hot dog, festive biscuit and hot drink. All children will receive a Christmas gift.

5-7pm. Adults and children £19.50 each.

23 & 24 December Santa’s Arrival Miller’s Ark Animals Manor Farm, Hook, RG27 9PH The farm will be open for its usual day of fun for everyone wanting to visit and cuddle the animals and enjoy straw play. 10am–3pm, Santa at 11am. £8, plus £5 extra per child to see Santa.

24 December Santa’s Christmas Countdown Viables Community Centre Basingstoke, RG22 4BJ Join Dotty the Elf, Dasher the Reindeer, Santa’s Christmas Countdown is an interactive family show, particularly suitable for 2-7 year olds. 10.30am and 1.30pm. £8.75 each, £31 for 2 adults & 2 children.

CHRISTMAS FAIRS AND MARKETS 3 November Old Basing Christmas Fair Old Basing Village Hall, RG24 7DA Early annual Christmas fair so you can get the Christmas present shopping cracked in plenty of time. 40 stalls sell unique crafts and gifts, everything from

Dinosaurs at Christmas!

Winchester Science Centre announced a brand-new Christmas partnership with the creators of The World of Dinosaur Roar! and a whole host of dinosaur-themed science activities (from 30 November).

Families looking for Father Christmas can breathe a sigh of relief as the Science Centre is offering a bookable Santa and the Elves Christmas Grotto, complete with science-themed activity, gift, and the chance to meet and have a family photograph with Santa.

Dino Discovery is open for weekends from Sat 30 Nov and daily from 19 Dec to Mon 6 Jan 2020. The Santa and the Elves Grotto is open at weekends from 7 Dec and daily from 19-24 Dec. Tickets for the planetarium and Santa and the Elves Grotto carry an additional charge but you can save up to 25% on General Admission when booking tickets online at least three days in advance.

15 November Christmas Shopping Evening Highfield and Brookham Schools Liphook, GU30 7LQ A festive shopping evening with an array of gift stalls and plenty of opportunity to sample artisan cheeses, gins and wines. Register at highfieldandbrookham.co.uk/ christmas-shopping. 5-7pm. Free entry.

16 November Growing2gether Christmas Fayre Cottismore Park Kingsclere, RG20 4SY Crafts and gift ideas as well as great crepes and brownies! 10am-2pm. Free.

16 November Christmas Craft Fair Cholderton Charlie’s Farm Salisbury, SP4 0EW Enjoy some quality time on the farm for some magical festive fun, in a beautiful setting. 10am-4pm. Tickets on the day £6 per person.

17 November Christmas Craft Fair St Bartholomew’s School Newbury, RG14 6JP Plenty of stalls to help you with your Christmas gift shopping. 11am-3pm.

24 November Christmas Fayre Hatch Warren Community Centre Basingstoke, RG22 4XF Over 20 local crafters, festive games, children’s craft zone, pre-loved toy and clothes sale. Entry £1, kids free.

30 November Kingsclere Christmas Market Kingsclere Village Club, RG20 5NH Looking forward to another amazing evening of shopping, fizz and talented local artisans! 6pm-8.30pm.

1 December Alton Christmas Cracker Fair Alton Community Centre Chawton, GU34 1HN Over 45 stalls selling crafts, homewares, gifts and treats. There will be storytime, face painting and free children’s activities. Plus come and see Santa in his Grotto. 10am-4pm. Free.

For full details, ticket sales and a timetable of activities visit the website www.winchestersciencecentre.org Christmas cards, gifts for loved ones and decorations for your home plus outfits for the big day. Parking is onsite and free. 10am-3pm. Adults £2 and children go free.

24 November Christmas Market & Play Basingstoke Gymnastic Club Basingstoke, RG21 6XR All the Christmas novelties. Bring all the family along, while you shop the kids can play in our state of the art gymnastics centre. 2-5pm. £2.

18 November – 25 December Christmas Market Craft Stalls The Malls. Basingstoke, RG21 7QU See website for opening times.

21 November Christmas Shopping Evening The Hawk Conservancy Trust Andover, SP11 8DY Come to get your Christmas shopping sorted and enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and 15% off. 4.30–8pm.

1 December Alton Yuletide Festival Alton Town Centre & Assembly Room, Alton, GU34 1HD Alton’s famous annual Yuletide Festival will see the town centre transformed into a vibrant Christmas Market with hundreds of stalls offering a wide mix of gifts, crafts and local produce 10am-4pm.

21 November – 22 December Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market Winchester, SO23 9LS Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market is recognised as one of the best in Europe due to its unique location, high quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere. Christmas gifts, decorations and festive foods can be found in abundance.

1 December Christmas Market Arlington Arts Mary Hare, Newbury, RG14 3BQ A fun for all the family Christmas Market with local stall holders selling crafts, gifts and treats. Games, raffle, tombola and prizes to win!

Refreshments, sweets, hot and cold snacks for sale. 2pm-4pm. Free entry.

23 November Oakley Christmas Fayre St Leonards Church Rectory Road, Oakley, RG23 7ED A Christmas event for everyone – shopping, refreshments and activities for the whole family.

23 November Bramley Mistletoe Fayre Bramley Village Hall, RG26 5BP An artisan market featuring 35 stalls for food, gifts and fabulous homewares.

12pm-4pm. Entry is free.

7 & 8 December Chawton House Christmas Fayre Chawton House Alton, GU34 1SJ Come and do a spot of Christmas shopping in the festive atmosphere of Chawton House. Browse the stalls selling handmade and local produce, enjoy a mince pie or three, take part in festive family activities and meet Father Christmas in his grotto. 11am-4pm. £2 entry (free to under 16s).

‘ Tis the Season ...

...for family fun

Enjoy a fun-filled festive day out for all the family at Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market and Ice Rink!

ICE RINK 21 November 2019 - 5 January 2020 10.00am - 9.00pm (last session starts at 8.00pm) Tickets available from £6.95 (including free skate hire).

Family tickets, parent and toddler sessions and child-friendly skate aids are also available. Advanced booking is recommended.

Book online or call 01962 857 276.

CHRISTMAS MARKET 21 November 2019 – 22 December 2019 Sun – Wed, 10.00am – 6.30pm, Thurs – Sat, 10.00am – 8.00pm

winchester-cathedral.org.uk/christmas familiesonline.co.uk

Families Hampshire North 11

What’s on 8 December Wrapped Up Christmas Food & Gift Fair The Lights, Andover, SP10 1AH A wide range of gift, craft and food stalls to get you ahead of the Christmas shopping game. Free face painting and activity table for children and seasonal food from the café. 10am-3pm. Free.

ICE SKATING 21 November – 5 January Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink Winchester, SO23 9LS Enjoy festive, rain-free skating at the heart of Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market. Skate around a huge Christmas Tree in the centre of the Ice Rink and then warm up with a cup of hot chocolate in the Ice Rink café.

Tickets £6.95 - £11.

22 November -19 December (MonFri only) Parent & Toddler Ice Skating Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink, Winchester, SO23 9LS Teach your little one how to skate with the exclusive Parent and Toddler sessions at 10am from Mon-Fri until 19 Dec £11.50 for one adult and a toddler and includes skate aids. Exclusive to toddlers aged between 2 – 4.

2 December Sleeping Beauty on Ice Planet Ice Basingstoke Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Enter this opulent world, with its marvellous mixture of virtuoso skating, fairy tale characters and dazzling spectacle. The production of Sleeping Beauty is performed by local and professional skaters, with a contemporary soundtrack. 1pm and 7pm. Adult from £10, Children from £7.

GENERAL EVENTS Throughout November Tormore House Trail The Vyne Basingstoke, RG24 9HL Find out what the Second World War evacuees from Tormore Boys School used to get up to at The Vyne. 12pm – 3pm. General admission prices.

2 November & 7 December Table Top Car Boot Viables Community Centre Basingstoke, RG22 4BJ Come along and find a bargain at our Indoor Car Boot Sale - there’s even tea and coffee! 9.15am-11.15am. 20p for each adult buyer.

3 November James Campbell: The Funny World Of… The Haymarket Theatre Basingstoke, RG21 7NG A stand-up comedy show for children over 6 years and their parents. Enjoy the best comedy for kids from the man who invented it, comedian and author James Campbell. 2:30pm. £11 (including booking fee).

5, 12, 19, 26 November & 3, 10 December Festive Craft Workshops Gilbert White’s House Selbourne, GU34 3JH Come and make Small Hearts, Fabric Wreaths, Teasel Animals, Snowmen, Pomanders, Twig Stars and Trees. Each event has materials provided. 10.30am - 12.30pm. £22 per person, includes materials, coffee, biscuits and entry to the museum.

5 – 6 November Shakespeare Schools Festival The Haymarket Basingstoke, RG21 7NW Shakespeare Schools Foundation is proud to present the world’s largest youth drama festival for a series of productions staged by your local schools. 7pm. £11.45; Over 65s, under 16s and f/t students £9.50.

7, 14, 21, 28 November & 5, 12, 19 December Tiny Town Viables Community Centre Basingstoke, RG22 4BJ New session for 0-5 year olds. There will be several zones for the children to explore which are both educational and entertaining, along with a dressing up area. 9.30am-10.15am and 10.3011.15am. Child £4, Sibling £3.50. Booking recommended.

7 November & 5 December Mini Millers Whitchurh Silk Mill Whitchurch, RG28 7AL Join us for fun and games, crafts and a very special mouse hunt around the Mill. 9.15-10.15am. £3 per child.

8 & 22 November, 13 & 27 December Toy Library Alton Maltings, Alton, GU34 1DT Take home toys, DVDs, games and puzzles for children aged 0-8 years, for as little as 30p. Relax and chat over a drink, meet new friends, while the children play with the preloved toys.

9.30–11.30am. Free.

Mulled Wine Weekend 7th & 8th December

Join us for our traditional Christmas celebration.

With Choirs . Mulled Wine . Wassailing . Activities.

& THE

OATES COLLECTIONS

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market and Ice Rink If you’re looking for festive family fun this Christmas then look no further than Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink! Located at the heart of Winchester Cathedral’s historic Inner Close, you’ll be captivated by the sights, sounds and smells of the Christmas Market with tasty treats and Christmas gifts for visitors of all ages.

At the centre of the bustling Christmas Market, you’ll find Winchester Cathedral’s Ice Rink, an impressive real ice rink with a covered roof, guaranteeing a rain-free skate whatever the weather. With child friendly skate aids, family tickets and ‘tiny tots’ sessions available.

Complete your day with a visit to the magnificent Winchester Cathedral where you can enjoy family events throughout the festive period, including the famous Lantern Parade on 28 November. With its towering Christmas tree and traditional carol services, you’ll experience the true joy of Christmas at Winchester Cathedral.

The Market is open daily from 21 Nov – 22 Dec and entry is free. The Ice Rink is open from 21 Nov – 5 Jan with tickets available from £6.95.

Visit the Cathedral website to plan your visit to Winchester Cathedral this Christmas: www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/home/christmas-at-thecathedral

Families Hampshire North Magazine has a family Ice Skating ticket to giveaway. To be in with a chance of winning, simply go to our Facebook page (Facebook/familieshampshirenorth), like our page and comment on the pinned post at the top of the page. Enter by 30 November. T&C’s apply.

WIN

See The Anvil’s Christmas pantomime Aladdin Follow Aladdin and his hapless brother Wishee Washee as they help their mother Widow Twankey try to make ends meet running the local laundry. And then the penniless Aladdin falls in love with Princess Jasmine. When Abanazar, the evil sorcerer, tells Aladdin that he can make him rich if he helps him find a magic lamp hidden in a cave, the story is only just beginning. As Aladdin takes on the fearless quest to stop the evil Abanazar from ruling the world, can his dreams still come true?

Live music, magnificent scenery, sensational special effects, beautiful costumes, lamp-fulls of laughter and an Aladdin’s cave of stupendous surprises. Staring CBBC favourite Mark Rhodes as Aladdin, Mark Moraghan as evil Abanazar and Chris Pizzey playing Wishee Washee.

Aladdin runs from 12 to 5 December (relaxed performance on 2 Jan). Ticket prices start at £20 with discounts for under 16s and over 65s, and also for groups and schools. Contact the box office on 01256 844244 or visit anvilarts. org.uk.

Family shows at The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre are excited to share with you a wide selection of shows, events and activities for families this festive season.

Packed with wonderful theatre, films, activities and workshops, plus, Squashbox Theatre return with two wonderful family shows.

On Saturday 23 November, Myths and Monsters are here. You’ll be guided through the mixed-up world of ancient Greece with a quirky and ingenious blend of puppetry, story-telling, live music and comedy.

On Saturday 14 December there are two performances of The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! This show is a proven family favourite, with an over-stuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs, quizzes, comedy and more. There is also the annual panto in January ‘The Wizard of Oz’ to look forward to.

Selborne . Hampshire . GU34 3JH

Visit www.phoenixarts.co.uk for more information.

www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk REGISTERED CHARITY NO. 1159058 12 Families Hampshire North

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Your Christmas begins at...

Alice Holt Forest Pick your perfect Christmas tree with the help of our specialist tree team 25 November - 23 December 9am-5pm, 7 days a week forestryengland.uk/alice-holt

BOOKING NOW 11th Nov

Rememberance Day - 2 mins Silence at 11am

13th Nov

Christmas Market Craft Stalls Open

15th Nov Christmas Lights Switch On With guests John Challis “Boycie” and Glenn Carter - at 6.00pm 16th Nov 17th Nov

The Cairngorm Reindeer Annual Event

18th Nov

paultonspark.co.uk ALL VISITS MUST BE PRE-BOOKED

Young Enterprise Trade Fair

Christmas Market Fully Opens

The Malls Shopping Centre, Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QU Tel: 01256 468892

www.themalls.co.uk facebook.com/TheMallsShoppingCentre

® Paultons Park and the Paultons Park logo are registered trademarks of Paultons Park Ltd

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Families Hampshire North 13

What’s on

See The Snowman at The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre

Until 10 November Incredible Inventions Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Explore the greatest inventions through the ages and learn how they have transformed the world we live in today.

Unleash your imagination as you discover super smart machines and glorious gadgets in an epic live science show. Encourage your little ones to think big with fun hands-on activities and challenges in the Invention Studio. £13.20 per person (with donation), including live science show and Invention Studio activities.

15 November Roller Disco The Harlington. Fleet, GU51 4BY The Harlington have combined with ‘Disco Skate’ to bring the joy of Roller Disco to Fleet. Suitable for all ages.

6-9pm. £5 (including skate hire).

Purchase on the door only.

16 November - 21 December Horizon 20:20: Design and Make Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery, Basingstoke, RG21 7QD Showcasing a collection of artwork produced by young people from around the county who have engaged with the Horizon 20:20 Programme.

10am–4pm. Free 16 November Star in the Jar Proteus Theatre Basingstoke, RG21 3DH A warm-hearted story, with music, that perfectly captures the friendship between two siblings; the lovely set design taking the action from park to school, and back home. 10am and 11.30am. £10 and £8 under 16s and concessions. Under 12 months go free.

16 November Young Enterprise Trade Fair The Malls. Basingstoke, RG21 7QU 17 November Cairngorm Reindeer Day The Malls Basingstoke, RG21 7QU

14 December Wrapping Paper Prints Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery, Basingstoke, RG21 7QD Print your own Christmas themed gift wrap ready for the big day. Ages 4+, children must be accompanied by an adult. 10.15am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2.15pm. £3.50 per child.

29 November Family Quiz Night Viables Community Centre Basingstoke, RG22 4BJ Come along as a family and compete with others to win a range of prizes.

Each round will be themed and have questions suitable for adults and children (7 years +). 6.30-9pm. £5 per person includes a sharing platter of nibbles. Max 6 per team.

30 November Christmas Needle Felt Workshop Hattingley Valley Wines Alresford, SO24 9AJ Spend a fun and relaxed morning learning to needle felt. You will be making a Christmas Robin to adorn your Christmas Tree as a unique Hattingley Bauble. All materials provided. 10.30am–1.30pm. £50, booking essential.

30 November Wreath Making Gilbert White’s House Selbourne, GU34 3JH Learn how to make your own festive wreath with greenery from the gardens.

Materials provided but please bring your own secateurs, any decorations or ribbon you want to incorporate and four candles if making an advent ring.

11am–1pm. £45.

23 November Eco Fair Gilbert White’s House Selbourne, GU34 3JH The Eco Fair is a great opportunity to discover a wide range of local green groups, businesses and campaigns.

With planet friendly workshops, stalls, gifts and food. 10.30am–4pm. Free.

General admission to visit the house.

30 November – 2 January A Victorian Christmas The Vyne, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL Enjoy a Victorian Christmas discovering Charles Dickens for the first time in the house and help Scrooge discover his festive spirit with the gardens trail.

10am–4pm. Normal admission charges apply. Trail sheet £1.

23 November Myths and Monsters The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Bordon, GU35 0LR Where can you find a creature that is half eagle and half lion? Or one that is half horse, half fish? Or half lion, half goat and half snake? For children aged 6+ and their families. 2pm. £8.

1 & 8 December Christmas Wreath Making Hattingley Valley Wines Alresford, SO24 9AJ Be guided through how to make a beautiful contemporary wreath to adorn your door this Christmas. All materials and tuition provided, you just need to come armed with secateurs, garden gloves and ideas. 10.30am. £50 booking essential.

26 November Shakespear Schools Festival The Lights Theatre Andover, SP10 1AH See Shakespeare’s timeless stories brought to life like never before, and support young people from your community as they take to the stage.

7pm. Adults £9.95, Conc £8.

29 & 30 November A Christmas Knight Proteus Theatre Basingstoke, RG21 3DH Join Jack as he spends his Christmas Day finding out the hard way in this magical new puppet show for children and their families. Friday 6.30pm; Saturday 10am, 12pm, 2.30pm. £10 and £8 under 16s and concessions. Infants under 12 months go free.

14 Families Hampshire North

13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23 & 24 December Magical Living Nativity Miller’s Ark Animals Manor Farm, Hook, RG27 9PH Meet innkeepers, shepherds with their flocks, angels and wise men. Various times. Tickets from £16.

1 December Steam Train Rides Basingstoke and District Model Engineering Society Viables Craft Centre, RG22 4BJ Enjoy a trip on steam train. Public hauling includes two laps of our track circuit where you will experience a nonstop run through the station at speed, with a total ride of just under 2000ft in length! 11am–4pm. £1.50 per person.

1 December ‘Do you want to build a snowman?’

The Tea Cosy The Dene, Hurstbourne Tarrant, SP11 0AS Come and build your very own snowman, join in with your favourite songs and meet some royal guests all

while enjoying a themed cake, biscuit and juice! 3-4.30pm. £14 per person.

1 – 31 December Hinton’s Christmas Fables Trail Hinton Ampner Near Alresford, SO24 0LA The animals of Aesop’s Fables are facing some Christmassy dilemmas, help them out on the trail through the gardens. 10am-3.30pm. Normal admission charges apply. Trail sheet £2.

3 - 6 December Christmas Wreath Workshop Alice Holt Forest Farnham, Surrey, GU10 4LS On arrival at the festively-decorated wooden cabin, you’ll be welcomed with a steaming cup of mulled apple juice.

Then make a beautiful, professionallooking wreath from natural foliage gathered in the forest to take home at the end. Ages 8+. 10am–12.30pm. £20.

3 December Forest First Toddler Group Growing2gether Cottismore Park, Newbury Road, Kingsclere, RG20 4SY Toddler group runs the first Tuesday of the month. Meet in the orchard behind the big industrial building. Whole session is outside so dress for the weather, mud and puddles encouraged.

9.30-11.30am. Free.

3, 5, 11, 13, 17, 19 December Candlelit House Tours The Vyne Basingstoke, RG25 9HL A guided house tour finishing with mulled wine and mince pies in the servants’ quarters. 4pm–5.30pm and 4.30–6pm. Booking essential, £35.

4 December Wizard of Oz The Haymarket Basingstoke, RG21 7NW Enjoy Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tinman, and Lion, (and yes, Toto too) as they seek the Wonderful Wizard to find that there’s no place like home! 7.30pm. £23, Under 25s and f/t students £20, under 12s £17 (includes £3 booking fee).

7 & 8 December Mulled Wine Weekend Gilbert White’s House Selbourne, GU34 3JH Enjoy a weekend of Christmas cheer, live entertainment, wassailing, children’s crafts, Christmas shopping and of course Mulled Wine at this wonderful free Yuletide event. See website for further details.

13 December Christmas Tree Ornament Workshop Alice Holt Forest Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LS This is a magical woodland workshop where you’ll be shown how to transform natural resources into beautiful Christmas tree ornaments.

Ages 5+. 10.30am–12.30pm. £15.

14 December The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness!

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Bordon, GU35 0LR The Christmassy Christmas Show of Christmassy Christmasness! is an overstuffed stocking of seasonal surprises crammed with puppets, songs, quizzes and comedy, and over-flowing with crazy characters, silly slapstick, tall tales and fantastic facts. 11am. £8.

14 December Festive Forest Craft Club Alice Holt Forest Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LS Wrap up warm and venture out to explore the wintery wilderness of Alice Holt and enjoy playing games around the forest. 10am–3pm. £20 per child.

14 December Trainmaster Andover Christmas Party Picket Twenty Community Association, Andover, SP11 6TY A two hour train party! Each child will get a personalised train bauble with their name and year on it. Lots of track, trains, ride on trains fancy dress, Christmas crafts and more. 10am–12pm. £10 per child.

15 December Christmas Party with Santa Augusta Park Community Centre Andover, SP11 6RD A 60 minutes stay & play with loads of Christmas play stations with Santa, photographer for beautiful family Christmas portraits, Usbourne Books, a fun Hartbeeps Party session to end the great end of year Christmas party. Two sessions: 10.30am–12pm , 1.30-3pm. £10 per child (£5 siblings).

18 December Kids Cinema The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Bordon, GU35 0LR 11am – The Snowman and 7.30pm – The Muppet Christmas Carol. £8 each show.

20 & 21 December Christmas Carols and Owls By Moonlight The Hawk Conservancy Trust Andover, SP11 8DY Step into the magical world of the owls during the evening as you witness the beautiful owls twist and turn in the night sky and skim silently over the top of your head. 6pm. £19.50.

21 – 23 December Carols in the Barn Miller’s Ark Animals Hook, RG27 9PH Saturday 11am & 2.30pm, Sunday 2.30pm, Monday 11am. £8.

23 & 24 December Magical Elf Tea Party Miller’s Ark Animals Hook, RG27 9PH Play traditional games with the elves in the cosy barn, 4pm-6pm. Adults £7, Children (age 2+) £10 (£5 for 18 months – 2 years), includes seasonal sandwiches, “elfie snacks”, crisps, cake or cookie and warm drinks.

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An Act of Kindness for Every Day of Advent!

– choose from below or make up your own 1. Smile at everyone you see today 2. Make cards for elderly people in your street 3. Tell someone the reasons you like them 4. Pick up litter in your street or local park 5. Clean up a mess you didn’t make 6. Wish a stranger a nice day 7. Help make dinner 8. Donate pocket money to charity 9. Compliment staff at a café or shop 10. Donate books, toys and clothes to charity 1 1. Volunteer at a festive community event

Zoe took biscuits to school

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12. Leave snacks on your doorstep for delivery people 13. Let somebody go ahead of you in the queue 14. Hug someone 15. Bake biscuits to take to school or work 16. Deliver notes to houses with great Christmas light displays 17. Pack away your things without being asked 18. Make someone laugh 19. Take canned food to your local food bank 20. Make a list of the things you’re thankful for 21. Leave a kind note where someone will find it 22. Send a Christmas card to someone overseas 23. Do a chore for someone else 24. Leave food out for Santa and his reindeer!

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Perform an a ct of kindness each day until Ch ristmas!

Pin up the c alendar and keep a daily record of yo ur family’s good deeds .

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ADVENT CALENDAR

Families Hampshire North 15

Exploring the great outdoors together

Stroll with the dogs

Discovering the local wildlife

Fun on the bikes

A naturally wonderful place to live 40 minutes** to London

Hart Leisure Centre Less than 2 miles from on your doorstep Fleet town centre

edenbrookvillage.co.uk

16 Families Hampshire North

In the catchment area for excellent schools

01252 757 557

New range of homes now released 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes available to move into now from ÂŁ415,000*

82 acre Country Park on your doorstep

*Price correct at time of going to press. **Source: www.nationalrail.co.uk Photography depicts Streetscene and is indicative only. Help to Buy is available on selected plots only. Terms and conditions apply.

Visit www.helptobuy.gov.uk for more information.

Edenbrook Village, Hitches Lane, Fleet, Hampshire GU51 5DN Sales Suite and Showhomes open daily, 10am - 5pm

familiesonline.co.uk