Booking deadline: 1 December Features: Education, early years, childcare, clubs & classes, health, Feb half-term and more.
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Christmas Holiday Specials at The Race Centre
The Race Centre will be holding their popular Christmas Holiday Specials. These events are discounted for families with ‘drivers’ aged 8 to 17.
Using the Track of the Month, all drivers are on track together competing to be the quickest! All lap times go into a monthly leaderboard that makes comparison between friends and rivals. Parents and supervising adults are also able to join in at the same discounted rate.
If you are celebrating a birthday during the festive season, enjoy exclusive venue hire for Junior Birthday Parties. Up to ten drivers competing head-to-head in a series of qualifying and race sessions. Racing concludes with podium presentations, and can be rounded off with time for pizza/ cake.
Book online at www.theracecentre.co.uk
Enjoy an enchanted Christmas at the National Trust
There is lots of family fun and adventure to enjoy at your local National Trust this Christmas.
Experience the magic of A Nutcracker Christmas at Mottisfont from 23 November to 5 January. In the house follow Clara and her Nutcracker Prince from a joyful Christmas party to a frosty wonderland and the Land of Sweets. Lavishly decorated rooms bring the story to life with colour and sparkle. Outside, explore the beautiful winter garden and take part in a Nutcrackerthemed trail with family activities.
Step into the wondrous world of an Enchanted Christmas at Hinton Ampner, from 16 November to 5 January. Discover the house, from the world of the Ice Queen to a Gingerbread Village and the North Pole Workshop. Explore the gardens featuring decorated trees, twinkly lights, family activities and don’t miss the sweetshop for a treat! Booking is essential.
Enjoy a Wonderland Christmas at The Vyne, from 20 November to 5 January. Quirky displays such as the Queen of Hearts’ army dot the gardens and glittering trees illuminate whimsical scenes from Lewis Carroll’s much-loved Wonderland on the ground floor of the house. Collecting a £2 trail sheet from Visitor Reception, enjoy nonsensical Alice-themed challenges before collecting your prize.
Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hampshire
There’s a Monster in Your Christmas Show at The Berry Theatre
Based on Tom Fletcher’s beloved Who’s in Your Book? series, There’s a Monster in Your Christmas Show at The Berry Theatre (Sat 14 to Tue 24 December), is a highenergy 50-minute adventure featuring lively, original music and interactive storytelling.
A group of performers are preparing to start their show, but quickly discover they are not alone on stage. Expect plenty of playful fun for your littlest ones as their favourite characters come to life in a show the whole family can enjoy.
Book your tickets at www.theberrytheatre.co.uk
Meet Santa at Monkey World Ape & Rescue Centre, Wareham
Between 18 and 21 December, Santa’s sleigh will touch down at Monkey World!
As well as meeting Santa and receiving a special present from him, your little monkeys can enjoy festive fare and a Christmas trail around the park. They can even enjoy making a present for the primates with Santa’s elves – something that’s bound to get them in the Christmas spirit!
Primate adoptions also make a great Christmas gift and mean you can visit your adopted primate for free for a year!
Visiting Santa at Monkey World will help support the rescue and rehabilitation of primates, so help spread Christmas cheer by seeing Santa here! It costs £10 plus entrance fee per child. Spaces are limited so early booking is advised. Email communications@monkeyworld.org to register your interest to see Santa.
Choose a real Christmas tree from the forest at Alice Holt
The Alice Holt Christmas Tree Shop will be open 9am5pm, 7 days a week from 22 November to 19 December.
Choose from traditional Norway Spruce for a fresh pine scent, Fraser Fir or a Nordmann Fir, the most popular Christmas tree in the UK due to their shape and low drop dark green needles. Trees are available in a range of heights and for something different, there are a variety of potted trees available up to 5ft in height.
Why not, make a day of it and try the exciting new Festive Trail while you visit. Also, don’t forget, you can enjoy the Gruffalo Party Trail before it finishes at the end of the year. Wander through the beautiful wintery forest and then treat yourself to a hot drink and some food from the café. More info at forestryengland.uk/real-christmas-trees
Celebrate the season at Christmas on the Square!
Enjoy some family festive fun and visit Christmas on the Square, Salisbury’s ultimate holiday destination, running from Friday 15 November to Sunday 5 January in the Guildhall Square.
There will be a variety of activities for all ages, from indulging tasty treats and warming drinks to soaking up the festive atmosphere with live music. Stroll through the Gift Fayre (22 November to 19 December) to find unique presents or meet Santa at his magical Grotto (15 November to 24 December).
Gather your family and friends to experience the Christmas magic at Salisbury’s most festive celebration of the year! For more information visit www.experiencesalisbury.co.uk or to book Santa’s grotto tickets, visit ticketsource.co.uk/ salisbury-city-council
The stage is set, the rink is laid, glowing shop windows in snow displayed. Events and fun for all to know, …and we’re ready for festive fun
SO come on, let’s go…
Start planning your trip at visitsouthampton.co.uk/christmas
Supporting a child with maths anxiety
By Catherine Loble and Lisa Wander
From buying a kilo of apples to paying a restaurant bill or making savings, maths is a fact of life. However, many people see maths as a hard and often confusing subject. This can lead to maths fear or anxiety. In children, this can significantly impact their academic performance and overall confidence. Understanding the causes and implementing supportive strategies can help parents effectively assist their children in overcoming this fear.
Maths anxiety is a worry or fear that can be brought on by maths problems, tests or even thinking about numbers. Estimates suggest that up to a quarter of children experience at least some maths anxiety, often lasting into adulthood. Negativity, fear and anxiety towards the subject block any motivation to practise in order to learn and access the skills they need to progress.
Maths anxiety can begin in early childhood. For others, it can arise a little later when lessons become more challenging and complex. Some children develop maths anxiety because they have not mastered the foundational skills. It is hard to master fractions for example, if you do not yet have a grasp on whole numbers.
Evidence states that girls tend to experience maths anxiety more than boys. This seems to be the case at both primary and secondary school levels. That is not because boys are naturally better at crunching numbers, experts explain. ‘There’s this societal stereotype that math is a masculine domain and a lot of women incorporate that idea’ says Molly Jameson, PhD, an educational psychologist at the University of Northern Colorado. That belief can fuel maths anxiety. Her research shows that one
big factor in maths anxiety is a child’s ‘math self-concept,’ in other words, their confidence in their ability to tackle a maths problem.
By understanding the causes of maths anxiety and implementing supportive strategies, parents can play a crucial role in helping their children develop a positive relationship with maths.
Changing the way we think about numbers and remembering that our relationship with maths can grow and alter over time can positively impact our self-confidence. Children should be set goals which feel achievable, to help them maintain motivation while overcoming anxiety.
Finally, encouragement, patience and a focus on understanding can transform maths from a source of fear to an opportunity for growth and success.
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
Strategies for parents
Promote a growth mindset. Remind your child that their ability in maths can and will be improved with practice, positivity and learning from mistakes.
Keep calm. Provide a comfortable space for homework, be patient and encouraging.
Focus on understanding, offering real life examples to explain concepts.
Have fun with maths games and puzzles. Engage in activities like cooking or shopping that naturally incorporate maths. Praise effort, not just results. Celebrating small successes builds confidence. Praise persistence, not just being right.
Practice builds familiarity and confidence.
Model problem-solving behaviour. Work through problems together, showing how to approach solving them step-by-step. Seek help when needed. If you’re not maths confident, use interactive educational apps and online resources that explain concepts in different ways. It’s useful to communicate with your child’s teacher to discuss their progress and areas that need support.
Keeping tweens reading
By Tanith Carey
Does it feel like you’re fighting a losing battle maintaining your tween’s interest in reading? Does your child always seem more interested in the quick fix of screens than books?
It’s understandable that parents worry. The human brain is wired for novelty and the bright lights and quick rewards of going online can feel immediately gratifying.
But it’s worth persevering. Books are a key way to help your child feel happier and less stressed. A National Literacy Trust survey found that keen readers between the age of 8 and 13 are three times more likely to have higher levels of mental well-being, compared to those who don’t engage with books at all. With books, kids learn to concentrate for longer and improve emotional intelligence as they empathise with the characters.
In a largely digital world, what’s a modern parent to do? As is often the case, part of the answer lies in taking action before your child hits tweenhood.
For ages 2 to 5, try limiting tech learning games to just ONE of your child’s many play options. Consciously cut down the digital babysitters because pre-schoolers need to develop their reading brains first.
After that, help kids become ‘bilingual.’ This means providing text both on screen AND on the printed page. Point out the difference between accessing information quickly online and deep, concentrated book-reading. Show them how to do both side by side.
As a Gestalt psychotherapist-in-training – which focuses on experience in the body – one of my favourite ways to do this is
Engaging tweens further with reading
Let them choose. While it’s tempting to encourage your children to read the classics you loved when you were little, let your child follow their own interests and get excited about a new book, whether it’s from the library or a bookshop. At the start of every school holiday, make a special visit to let your kids pick out their own. Looking forward to this trip and giving them a choice will make them more invested.
Go exploring together. Thanks to the internet, our children have never read more words or had access to more experiences. They can now browse through hundreds of websites and search any subject that interests them in seconds. In fact, research has found that the average person now reads as many as 100,000 words a day: about thirty four gigabytes a day across their various devices.
Don’t just leave them to it. Do some research to find out more about the subjects in a recent book that has interested them.
by helping children recognise how screens and books make them feel different.
As an example, help your child notice how immersive video gaming makes them feel tense and jumpy. Then notice how curling up with a good book and being able to take in information at their own pace makes them feel calmer. Role model book reading yourself and talk about how it makes YOU feel.
Make phone-free family time a treat rather than deprivation. For example, hold a phone amnesty where you ALL go to a café for a hot chocolate with your favourite books for half an hour’s reading.
When kids realise how good books can make them feel and how they bond you together, it marks the start of a life-long habit.
‘All my friends have a phone!’ is one of the 75 real world scenarios tackled in What’s my Tween Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents, by Tanith Carey with Dr Angharad Rudkin, published by DK books.
Tips for reading with younger children
Don’t rush them. Just because children are able to sound out words, it doesn’t mean they can understand the meaning of the whole sentence. If children don’t really get what’s happening in a book, they can get bored and turn off reading early. Resist the temptation to get caught up in the class reading race over who’s on the most advanced Biff and Chip book.
Read WITH them. Once children are able to read fairly fluently around age 7, it’s easy to assume you can leave it to them. But according to the Kids and Family Reading Report, which surveyed over one thousand parents and their children, only thirty seven percent of parents of children ages 6 to 8 still read them bedtime stories.
This is despite the fact that children miss this ‘special’ time of the day with parents and they still reap huge benefits in understanding, vocabulary and engagement. A nightly reading session also sets up reading in their minds as a regular and relaxing habit.
The connection between fussy eating and neurodiversity
By Ellie Malt
Short phases of fussy eating and avoiding new foods are very common in childhood. But if your child’s picky eating persists, it could be a sign of a neurodiverse brain type such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit disorder (ADHD). Understanding the connections between neurodiversity and eating problems can help you decide what to do.
Constipation. For a neurodiverse child, it’s likely gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms will have been present from birth. A very recent study₁ highlighted how children eventually diagnosed with ASD are five times more likely to have had feeding difficulties as babies. Although surveys on GI symptoms in children with ASD and ADHD are inconsistent, one study of one hundred and twenty children with ASD₂ found nearly all of them had constipation. The pain of regular constipation can lead to negative associations with eating.
The gut. Children with neurodiversity are more likely to have guts with structural differences. These can be a reduced ability to push food through (a slow gut) or a reduced ability of the intestine wall to keep food away from the rest of the body (a leaky gut). A study by microbiologists in the US₃ has suggested children with ASD and ADHD may also have differences in the types of bacteria in their gut, leading to altered immune responses.
Food intolerances. There is growing anecdotal evidence indicating that children with ASD and ADHD are more likely to have lactose and casein intolerances (both found in dairy products) and gluten intolerances. Despite a lack of large-scale studies in this area, a small survey of parents of autistic children in England showed that a fifth had tried a gluten and/or milk free diet and a majority of these parents reported significant improvements in various aspects of their child’s wellbeing.
Interoception. Kids with ASD or ADHD often have a different experience of discomfort. Altered interoception, the sense of the internal state of the body, can make it difficult to recognise hunger and fullness, leading to irregular eating patterns.
Sensory processing. Children with ASD or ADHD feel overloaded by sensory stimuli. A heightened sensory awareness to texture, taste and smell can make certain foods intolerable, leading to a more restricted diet with a preference for
Signs of neurodivergence
Parents with picky eaters need to be alert to possible underlying causes. Signs to look out for include:
Extreme selectivity where a child consistently sticks to a very limited diet.
Sensory sensitivities causing strong reactions to certain textures, tastes, smells or even appearances of food.
Rigid eating patterns or mealtime rituals.
Anxiety at mealtimes, eg with new foods. Gastrointestinal complaints including stomach pain, constipation, diarrohea.
Sensitivity to eating sounds which can lead to avoiding meals.
predictability and comfort.
Sensitivity to sound. Sensitivity to the sound of eating (misophonia), is characterised by strong reactions to specific sounds, such as chewing or swallowing. Children with neurodivergence are more likely to experience sensitivity to these sounds, making mealtimes stressful and unpleasant. This can lead them to avoid eating certain textures or eating in social settings.
Executive function. When children become overwhelmed by their senses, the brain shuts down executive functioning, reducing self-control. With ADHD, they might be too distracted to enjoy eating or to finish their food. To sustain interest, they may be drawn to food choices that deliver instant gratification, favouring sugary snacks. Hyperactivity can also affect their ability to sit at a table and focus on eating. Studies have found impaired executive function among patients with eating disorders.
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). ARFID, a recognised eating disorder, is characterised by extremely selective eating habits without an underlying medical condition. A study of six hundred children in Sweden with ARFID₄ is one of the most recent to have highlighted the overlap between eating disorders and neurodiverse conditions including tic disorder, ADHD and ASD.
Ellie is a writer and mum of two daughters living in Surrey.
Sources
1. Feeding Behaviors in Infants and Toddlers Later Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2024
2. Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Autism: Parental Report, Clinical Evaluation, and Associated Factors, Autism Research, Volume 5, Issue 2, 2012
3. The Gut Microbiome in Autism, American Society Microbiology 2021, 4. Neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions in 600 Swedish Children with the ARFID phenotype. PMC, 2024
Practical steps
Occupational therapy: engage a therapist to help your child become more comfortable with different foods.
Behavioural interventions: Use positive reinforcement and gradual exposure.
Involvement: involve your child in meal planning and prep. Consult a healthcare provider: gastrointestinal problems may be affecting your child’s eating habits.
Sound sensitivity: noise-cancelling headphones or background music can help manage sensitivity to eating sounds.
Consult allergists or dietician: explore testing for food intolerances and develop a dietary plan.
Keeping kids active and engaged in winter
By Andrew Campbell
As winter arrives bringing shorter and colder days, children often tend to gravitate towards screens and screen-based activities of all kinds. But winter is a brilliant opportunity for parents and carers to help them to find new ways of being physically and mentally active indoors. From indoor climbing to creative art and craft and everything in between, there are some fantastic options to keep your children’s minds and bodies moving during the winter months.
INDOOR CLIMBING
Indoor climbing is an excellent way for children to build physical strength, improve co-ordination, and boost their confidence. Climbing centres provide a safe environment where children can challenge themselves, learn problem-solving skills and enjoy the thrill of reaching new heights. Many centres offer courses and classes tailored to children including parent-supervised classes. Encourage your child by joining them for a climbing session, organising climbing playdates with friends or hold an indoor climbing birthday party for your child. To find a local centre try the UKC Directory at www.ukclimbing.com
ART AND CRAFT
Winter is an ideal time for artistic exploration, stimulating creativity and improving fine motor skills and patience. Set up an art station at home with various materials such as paints, beads, clay and recycled items and encourage your child to create personalised gifts or decorations as Christmas approaches. Local community centres and art schools often offer classes where children can learn new techniques and make friends with similar interests. Try the Children’s Art Class Directory at www.quickdrawart.com to find local classes.
TRAMPOLINING
Trampolining is an exhilarating activity AND an excellent cardiovascular workout that improves balance and co-ordination. Indoor trampoline parks provide a safe space for children to jump, flip and play. These parks often have special sessions for different age groups, as well as party packages, ensuring a safe experience for even the littlest children. Meanwhile, for children who want more regular bouncing, trampoline clubs offer qualified coaching and graded competitions and are often held at schools, leisure centres and gymnastic centres. To find a local club try the Gymnastics & Trampolining Directory at www.uk-ag.co.uk
INDOOR SOFT PLAY
For younger children, indoor soft play areas offer a secure environment in which they can explore, climb and interact with others. Play zones for different ages are designed to be safe and engaging, with padded surfaces and colourful obstacles. Soft play encourages imaginative play, social interaction and physical activity, making it an ideal choice for energetic toddlers. Plan visits during off-peak hours for a more relaxed experience and allow your child the freedom to navigate the space at their own pace. Many larger centres offer birthday party experiences as well as more sophisticated and adventurous options for older children and even adults.
SCIENCE EXPLORATION
Embrace the scientific! Many science centres and museums offer interactive exhibits and workshops in which kids can engage in hands-on learning. These activities can spark interest in various scientific fields, from chemistry to astronomy and provide an educational yet entertaining experience. At home, consider simple science experiments using everyday materials to keep the curiosity alive.
To find local stargazing spots or observatories try www.gostargazing.co.uk
For budding palaeontologists, check out the UK Fossils Network which features location guides for collecting fossils and information on joining organised hunts at www.ukfossils.co.uk
The Association for Science and Discovery Centres has an extensive directory at www.sciencecentres.org.uk
SWIMMING
Swimming offers numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, strength and flexibility and indoor swimming pools provide a warm and inviting environment during winter months. Enrol your child in swimming lessons to help them build confidence in the water. Swimming is not only a vital life skill but also a great way to relieve stress and have fun.
Family swim sessions can be a wonderful way to bond and maintain fitness together. For children interested in taking their swimming to the next level with regular qualified coaching and competitions, then Swim England has a directory of hundreds of local clubs at discover.swimming.org
A Winter Wonderland
By Gemma Hunt
As the song goes: ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year….’ Whilst you may like the idea of walking in a winter wonderland, with the nights drawing in and the weather that bit chillier, the temptation to stay indoors is strong. But getting outside is so good for you and your little ones. Getting a good lungful of fresh air, embracing the nature around you, whilst getting some exercise and burning off pent up energy will do you all the world of good.
But before you open the front door and take that first step into the winter air, there are some things you may want to bear in mind!
Wrap up warm
Make sure you and your children are wrapped up nice and warm before heading out into the chilly winter air. Dressing in plenty of layers is always the best idea as they can be added or removed, depending on how your child is feeling. Don’t forget a hat to keep heads warm and a pair of gloves or mittens for chilly hands.
Help other children to enjoy the great outdoors
As an ambassador for The Outdoor Guide Foundation’s (TOG) Waterproof & Wellies campaign, I’m helping to raise funds to provide all state primary schools in the country with at least ten sets of waterproof jackets, trousers and wellies so that those children who cannot afford outdoor clothes can play outside. Interested? You can support the campaign too at www.theoutdoorguidefoundation. org
Be prepared
If spending hours outdoors sound a bit much to start with, head to a local park or woods nearby, rather than going too far afield and feeling like you have to stay a long while to justify the journey. No matter what time of year you’re off out and for what length of time, check the weather forecast so you can be prepared. Have a change of clothes, wet weather gear, a spare pair of shoes and, if you are travelling by car, some blankets in the boot for afterwards.
Waterproof and wellies
Winter walks can be mucky walks but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Get your waterproofs and wellies on and have some fun finding those muddy puddles and having a good jump around in them.
Get active
Whilst adding more layers is helpful when you start to feel the chill, doing some exercise will warm you up from the inside out. Whether it’s doing some star jumps, dancing around or if it’s not slippery underfoot, challenging the children to a running race. Get the heart pumping and you’ll be feeling warmer again in no time.
Snacks at the ready
Don’t forget to pack some snacks and perhaps a flask of warming hot chocolate for your outdoor adventures this winter. These can help give your little ones the energy and motivation to get outside.
Have fun!
There are loads of fun activities you can do outside in the winter time. Whether it’s building a snowman or making snow angels on a snow day, constructing a twig or fallen branch den, gathering fallen leaves, seeds and other items to make mandalas on the ground or perhaps a scavenger hunt or geocaching, you’ll be glad you did go out for that walk after all!
Gemma Hunt is a television presenter from Songs of Praise and CBeebies, proud Ambassador of The Outdoor Guide (TOG) Foundation, as well as an accomplished children’s author and Confident Communication Coach. She is available to host children’s pirate parties and live events and festivals with her one-woman pirate show. For more information, visit www.gemmahunt.com
Your Christmas stocking filler gift guide
By Sarah Lindsley
Yes, it’s that time of year again! Along with decking the halls, meal planning and panto ticket booking while the children are beside themselves with excitement, let’s not forget the presents. We are here to help! Our Christmas stocking filler gift guide offers you inspiration in the lead up to the festive season. With each gift coming in under £15 there may even be some of the Christmas budget left over to treat yourself!
From birth
A perfect first book for your baby and suitable from birth with its soft, padded pages. With simple black-and-white illustrations and a touch-and-feel experience on every page, this beautiful book is designed to capture babies’ attention and even claims to help develop their eyesight. Providing fun, multi-sensory stimulation for babies, this is a lovely first book for your newborn.
Ages 8+
Ages 5+
Kinetic Sand Deluxe Beach Castle Play Set
£11.99
Bring the beach to your kitchen with this brilliant magically moving play sand set. Made with larger grains of natural sand, it moulds easily and never dries out. Kinetic sand is a unique sensory experience that encourages hours of independent play. Unfold the box to discover a sandy play area complete with cutting, digging and raking tools so your child can make some seriously super sandcastles. The sand sticks to itself and comes with a tray for storage so even cleaning up is easy.
Crayola 24 Super Tips
Washable Markers
£8
Orchard Toys Games
£9.75/£12/£6
Ages 3-6
Hy-Pro Size 2 Skills Trainer Football
£11.99
Get World Cup-ready with this brilliant skills trainer football from Hy-Pro. Perfect for any young football enthusiast to practise their ball control and core skills. The ergonomic handle is easy to hold and the handheld cord linking the PVC football can be adjusted depending on both the age and the skills being practised.
Ages 4+
Crayola’s 24 Super Tip markers are the perfect pens to get creative with, whether making big brush strokes in a favourite colouring book or creating detailed, fine lines for drawings and art projects. A win for parents too as the ink easily washes off skin and clothing, so you can let your budding artist have free rein.
Doggy Doggy Woof Woof! is an energetic, hilarious new matching and memory game where players pair doggy heads and bodies. In Peter Rabbit™ Don’t Wake Mr. McGregor, join Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Flopsy and Mopsy and race to collect the most fruit and vegetables! But don’t wake Mr. McGregor or you’ll have to return to the start! In a festive, travel-sized Elf Lotto, collect all the cheeky elves and be the first to fill your board with matching characters.
Ages 5+
This LEGO® City Police Car set, featuring a cool police patrol car and accompanying police officer figure complete with torch and hat, will keep your child busy for hours as they zoom around the living room chasing the baddies. You can even use the LEGO® Building Instructions app to access the interactive building guide with amazing zoom and rotate viewing tools. Your kids will become master builders in no time.
Ages 2-5
Part of the Busy Book series, Busy Park is guaranteed to be a favourite at bedtime over and over again. There’s a sweet rhyming story and colourful and engaging illustration, but it’s the interactive nature of the book with its push, pull and slide tabs that really make it stand out. You and your tot can enjoy your day out at Busy Park together: visit the playground, make the animals run and disappear and even get the sunshine to come out. Busy Park has also been endorsed and recommended by Dr Amanda Gummer’s Good Toy Guide (www.goodplayguide.com).
Campbell Busy Books Busy Park Board Book £6.99
Ladybird Baby Touch: My First Book £10.99
What's On
All
English National Ballet’s Nutcracker at Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE
Thu 28-Sat 30 Nov
This festive season, join Clara on a fantastical adventure where anything is possible. Embark on a journey full of colour and wonder as English National Ballet brings the Nutcracker to life with over 100 dancers and musicians. This new re-telling of the classic festive ballet combines exquisite dancing with spectacular sets and costumes performed to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score live. Ages 5+. mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/enbnutcracker-2024
Mother Goose at Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB Sat 30 Nov-Sun 5 Jan
Come and have a GANDER at what promises to be an EGG-traordinary show, full of hilarious gags, original songs and loads of audience participation. All ages. theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk/ whats-on/mother-goose
Nick Cope’s Festive Show at The Point, Eastleigh SO50 9DE Sun 1 Dec
Nick Cope has been writing and recording his beautiful and totally unique songs for children and their families for over 10 years. As part of this Festive Show, Nick will perform all of his seasonal songs including songs about snowmen, elves and Santa Claus and of course there will be plenty of festive fun for all! 11am, 2pm. £17. Ages 3+. thepointeastleigh.co.uk/events/ nick-copes-family-show-dec-2024dec-2024
Elf The Musical at Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE
Tue 3-Sat 7 Dec
Elf, the hit Hollywood blockbuster movie has been supersized into a live spectacular stage show. The story is enhanced with amazing film backdrops on a huge LED screen. It also has Santa’s flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight, indoor snowstorm, a giant candy cane journey from the North Pole and aerial cirque stars. Ages 4+. mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/elfthe-musical-2024
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show at MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton, SO14 7DU
Wed 4-Sat 14 Dec
Created by Jonathan Rockefeller featuring a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets. All ages. mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/thevery-hungry-caterpillar
A Winter’s Tail at The Point, Eastleigh SO50 9DE
Thu 5 Dec
The snow is falling and the solstice is approaching. Ratty is getting ready. She wants everything to be really rat-tastic! But will her friends make it through the snow to the winter woodland revels? There’ll be excitement, adventure, playacting, games, music, a splattering of silliness and lots of snow! 10am, 11.30am. Ages 2+. thepointeastleigh.co.uk/events/awinters-tail-dec-2024
The Nutcracker, The Ballet: Lets All Dance at The Berry Theatre, Southampton, SO30 4EJ Sat 7 Dec
Indulge in spectacular dancing, glorious music and beautiful costumes. Be transported to the magical Land of Sweets and meet the Mouse King, Snow Queen and
Seasonal events
gorgeous Sugar Plum Fairy. Clara and the Nutcracker Prince would love you to join them on their magical journey! Ages 2+. theberrytheatre.co.uk/events/ lets-all-dance-the-nutcracker-theballet-dec-2024
There’s a Monster in Your Christmas Show at The Berry Theatre, Southampton, SO30 4EJ Sat 14-Tue 24 Dec
There’s a Monster in Your Christmas Show… and he can’t wait to meet you! A high-energy 50-minute adventure featuring lively original music, this show is the perfect introduction to live theatre. Expect plenty of playful fun for your littlest ones as their favourite characters come to life in a show that is packed with interactive moments to enjoy. Ages 3+. theberrytheatre.co.uk/events/ theres-a-monster-in-yourchristmas-show-dec-2024
Jack and the Beanstalk at Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE Sat 14 Dec-Sun 5 Jan
Doomed to sell his trusty cow, join Jack and his family as they fight to outwit the evil giant, win riches beyond his wildest dreams and earn the hand of the girl he loves. All ages. mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/jackand-the-beanstalk-2024
Santa’s Christmas Cracker at Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB Mon 16 Dec
Join Father Christmas and friends for a fun, festive, musical adventure to discover the wonder of Christmas – you may even get to pull a cracker with Dotty the Elf! A 45-minute, interactive family show for ages 2-8. 1.30pm, 4pm. theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk/ whats-on/santas-christmascracker
Cinderella’s Wellies at The Point, Eastleigh SO50 9DE Sat 21-Tue 31 Dec
A time-twisting fairy tale adventure that the whole family will love with magical storytelling, dancing, puppetry and original songs that you’ll be singing long after. All ages. thepointeastleigh.co.uk/events/ cinderellas-wellies-dec-2024
The Wind in the Willows: Toad’s BIG Musical Adventure at MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton SO14 7DU Sun 22-Tue 31 Dec
This Christmas, join Rat, Badger and Mole on Toad’s BIG Musical Adventure as the classic tale of The Wind in the Willows is brought to life packed with musical hits, comedy and thrills for all the family. mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/thewind-in-the-willows-2024
The Berry Theatre
What's On Your festive guide to
NOVEMBER
Autumn is Wicked Trail at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA
Until Sat 30 Nov
Self-guided family fun trail. They crunch and munch. They ooze and dribble. What is on the attack in the garden? £2.50 per trail plus admission. 10am-5pm. hilliergardens.org.uk
Gruffalo Party Trail at Alice Holt Forest, Farnham, GU10 4LS
Until 31 Dec
Interactive family trail features partythemed activities and games and fun facts. 9am-4pm. Ages 3-9. forestryengland.uk/alice-holtforest/gruffalo-party-trail-aliceholt-forest
Southampton Christmas Market, Above Bar Street
Thu 14 Nov-Mon 6 Jan
Enjoy a wide range of tasty treats and live entertainment. There will be children’s rides including a traditional horse carousel, festive bars stocked with tasty hot chocolates and hot mulled cider, and special gifts from a selection of vendors. visitsouthampton.co.uk/events
Southampton’s Countdown to Christmas in City Centre locations Fri 15-Sun 17 Nov
A weekend of live music, roaming entertainment, activities, character meet and greets and guest performances to celebrate the start of the festive season in Southampton and turn on the Christmas lights! FREE.
visitsouthampton.co.uk/christmas
Santa’s Grotto at Guildhall Square, Salisbury, SP1 1JH Fri 15 Nov–Sun 24 Dec
Santa has made time in his busy schedule to return to Salisbury this Christmas! As part of Christmas on the Square, you will be able to find Santa in his enchanting grotto. Hear a festive story read by Santa, followed by a chance for each family to take a special photo with him. Every child will leave with a beautifully wrapped gift to take home, straight from Santa’s workshop. Book online. experiencesalisbury.co.uk
The Sorting Office Christmas Maker’s Market at The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Sat 16 Nov 10am-5pm
Meet over twenty designer-makers and buy original gifts for Christmas from independent makers. FREE. thepointeastleigh.co.uk
Seasonal events
Christmas Market at Fairthorne Manor, Southampton, SO30 2GH Sat 16 Nov
An indoor and outdoor Christmas Market showcasing a vast array of festive arts, crafts, gifts and best street food around and specialty artisanal drinks. ymca-fg.org/events/fairthornemanor-christmas-market
Christmas Grotto at The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Sat-Sun 16-17 Nov
Join other families as Father Christmas welcomes you with a song and a story, then collect your gift and take your photo with the man in red himself. thepointeastleigh.co.uk/events/ christmas-grotto-2024-nov-2024
An Enchanted Christmas at Hinton Ampner, SO24 0LA Sat 16 Nov-Sun 5 Jan 10am-4pm
Step into the beautiful house, enchanted by the magic of Christmas. With thousands of sparkling lights and presents stacked high - don’t miss out on this Christmas delight! The garden will be the backdrop for beautifully decorated trees with twinkling lights and classic Christmas colours. Normal admission applies. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ hampshire/hinton-ampner/events
Wonderland Christmas at The Vyne, RG24 9HL Wed 20 Nov-Sun 5 Jan 10am-4pm
With sparkling trees and quirky displays, in The Vyne’s house and gardens, lose yourself in Lewis Carroll’s dreamlike children’s classics. On the ground floor of the house, sparkling trees laden with baubles illuminate whimsical and nonsensical displays inspired by ‘Looking-Glass.’ In the gardens, you’ll encounter depictions of much-loved characters and famous scenes from Alice’s Adventures including the Queen of Heart’s army of cards on the north lawn. House open 11am3pm, gardens 10am-4pm. Normal admission applies. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ hampshire/the-vyne/events
Pick a Real Christmas Tree at Alice Holt Forest, GU10 4LS Fri 22 Nov-Thu 19 Dec
The Alice Holt Christmas Tree Shop will be open 9am-5pm, 7 days a week. Choose from traditional Norway Spruce for a fresh pine scent, Fraser Fir or a Nordmann Fir, the most popular Christmas tree in the UK due to their shape and low drop dark green needles. Available in a range of heights. forestryengland.uk/real-christmastrees
What's On Your festive guide to
Gift Fayre at Guildhall Square, Salisbury, SP1 1JH
Fri 22 Nov–Thu 19 Dec
Explore a unique, fully festive, covered outdoor shopping experience. Featuring an array of over 20 incredible local makers offering artisan products, discover unique and thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list. As part of Christmas on the Square, the Gift Fayre is the perfect place to do your Christmas shopping. experiencesalisbury.co.uk
Christmas Market at Winchester Cathedral, SO23 9LS Fri 22 Nov-Sun 22 Dec
FREE to enter, enjoy a bustling atmosphere and handpicked highquality exhibitors. Plus, step inside the cathedral to explore over 1,000 years of history. winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ christmas
Artful Christmas Weekend at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, SO51 0QA Sat-Sun 23-24 Nov
Discover and buy contemporary art, craft and gifts directly from the makers, including fine art, ceramics, jewellery, printmaking, textiles, glass, sculpture and woodwork. FREE festive craft activities for children and live music from local groups. 10am-4pm artfulcollective.co.uk/christmasweekend
A Nutcracker Christmas at Mottisfont, Romsey, SO51 0LP Sat 23 Nov-Sun 5 Jan. 10am-4pm
Experience the timeless magic of The Nutcracker at Mottisfont this Christmas, with a decorated house and family activity trail. The story unfolds as you wander through rooms filled with sparkling trees and decorations, music and light effects. Follow Clara and her Nutcracker Prince into a frosty wonderland with swirling snowflakes. Sugarplum fairies twirl among candy canes in the Land of Sweets and there’s a thrilling dual scene between the Prince and the Mouse King. Outside, the adventure continues on a Nutcracker-themed family activity trail. Normal admission applies. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ hampshire/mottisfont/events
A Riverside Christmas at Winchester City Mill, SO23 9BH Sat 23 Nov-Sun 5 Jan Winchester City Mill will be transformed with decorated trees and twinkling lights this festive season. Find richly decorated trees, sparkling lights, beautiful baubles and stacks of presents await. Don’t forget to visit the café for a festive treat. FREE but normal admission applies. 10am-4pm. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ hampshire/winchester-city-mill
Christmas Holiday Specials 2024
- Discounted Weekday Sessions
- For Under 18’s and Accompanying Adults
- Book online for just £18 per driver!
- Available as 3-for-2 Christmas gift vouchers
Junior Birthday Parties
- Exclusive venue hire from £185
- Catering options available
- Try-before-you-buy (call to book)
Book online at www.theracecentre.co.uk
Tel: Chandler’s Ford 023 8026 9927
Tel: Ryde, Isle of Wight 01986 565366
Seasonal events
Christmas Steam Event at The Brickworks Museum, Swanwick, SO31 7HB
Sun 24 Nov
See the site shining in the glow of Christmas lights and decorations to begin the festive period. Shop at the craft market and find out about Christmas’ past in their Victorian cottage display. Father Christmas will also be visiting. 11am-4pm. thebrickworksmuseum.org/event/ christmas-at-the-brickworks-2
Light Up Trail at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, SO51 0QA
Thu 28 Nov-Wed 1 Jan
Award-winning producers, Light Up Trails return with a host of NEW glittering installations and amazing food and drink, completing a sensational, sensory feast. Immerse yourself in a truly unforgettable, magical light trail experience like no other for the family. Booking is essential. 4.30-8pm. lightuptrails.com/events/light-uphillier-gardens
Glow Marwell at Marwell Zoo, Winchester, SO21 1JH Fri 29 Nov–Mon 30 Dec
Awaken your senses and experience the natural wonders of fire, earth, air and water at this one-of-a-kind winter lights experience. Discover the magic of vibrant UV face paint designs which come to life under special lights around the trail. Your ticket to Glow Marwell includes FREE access to the zoo from 1-4pm. Book online. marwell.org.uk/christmas
Southampton’s Snow Windows Trail in the City Centre Fri 29 Nov–Tue 31 Dec
Get involved in Visit Southampton’s FREE family walking trail in the heart of Southampton city centre. Explore the North Pole and the South Pole trail maps and see the beautiful individually decorated windows. Write down the clues and solve the puzzle for children to receive a prize. A great family day out. visitsouthampton.co.uk/christmas
Steam Illuminations at The Watercress Line, SO24 9JG Fri 29 Nov-Sat 4 Jan
Experience an incredible light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of coloured lights and LED wristbands, creating a kaleidoscope of different colours and flashing patterns, includes ‘Canopy of Lights’ a sound to light show inside every carriage. 4-9pm. watercressline.co.uk/steamilluminations
Mini Monets at Southampton City Art Gallery, SO14 7LY Sat 30 Nov
Experiment with different art styles, techniques and materials in a fun and accessible way. A great way to encourage your child’s creativity. Under 7s. £7.50. 10-11am. southamptonmuseumsand gallery.co.uk
Meet Father Christmas at Exbury Gardens, SO45 1AZ Sat-Sun 30 Nov-1 Dec and 7-8 Dec
Father Christmas will be dropping into the Exbury Christmas Fair to delight young visitors. He’ll have a treat in store for every child who pays him a visit in his grotto. exbury.co.uk/meet-fatherchristmas1
Christmas Fair at Exbury Gardens, SO45 1AZ Sat-Sun 30 Nov-1 Dec and 7-8 Dec
Traditional Christmas Fair running over two weekends. There will be crafts, gifts, music, festive food and drink and so much more. exbury.co.uk/christmas-at-exbury
Christmas at Fairthorne Manor, Southampton, SO30 2GH Sat 30 Nov-Sun 22 Dec (weekends only)
Come along on a weekend from 30 Nov–22 Dec for festive fun with a variety of family-friendly events including a mini light trail, santa’s grotto, festive crafts, Christmas stalls, bouncy castles, elf adventures, food, sweet treats and much more. ymca-fg.org/events/christmas-atfairthorne-manor
Santa’s Grotto at The Great Hall with Westgate Museum, SO23 9AP Sat 30 Nov-Mon 23 Dec
This Christmas, unwrap a memorymaking adventure that your family will treasure for years to come as you take part in the Santa’s Grotto experience. Write a letter to Santa, follow the Candy Cane path and meet Santa. Pre-book. 10am-5pm. hampshireculture.org.uk/event/ santas-grotto-great-hall
A Classic Christmas at Milestones Museum, Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Sat 30 Nov–Mon 23 Dec
Enjoy a classic, charming Christmas on Milestones’ cobbled streets which will be decorated for the season. Families can take part in the spotter trail around the museum and enjoy tasty treats. 10am–4.45pm. milestonesmuseum.org.uk/event/ classic-christmas-milestones
The Elf Society at The Garden Society, SO50 7DD Sat 30 Nov-Tue 24 Dec
Join the Elves on their mission, inventing, creating and preparing this year’s favourite toys ready for Christmas delivery. Explore workstations, toy creations, try your hand at gingerbread decorating and discover what wonders await within this magical workshop before you meet Santa himself! Pre-book online. Selected dates only. thegardensociety.co.uk/the-elfsociety
The Time Traveler’s Christmas Party at Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES Sat 30 Nov-5 Jan
Travel back in time and experience Christmas through the ages! Discover what kept people entertained throughout history
WHAT’S ON CHILDREN’S
What's On
during the festive period with family trails, activities and crafts. Normal admission applies. 10am-4pm. hampshireculture.org.uk/event/ time-travellers-christmas-party
DECEMBER
Sunday Festive Markets at Salisbury Market Place, SP1 1JH Sun 1, 8, 15, & 22 Dec
These markets are the perfect way to get into the festive spirit, offering a fantastic range of traders showcasing their unique goodssuch as handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere. experiencesalisbury.co.uk
Christmas at Paultons Park, Romsey SO51 6AL Fri 6-Mon 23 Dec
See Peppa Pig World decorated for Christmas and meet Peppa and George in their festive outfits! Enjoy Santa’s Storytime, meet characters and see the magical Illuminations around the Park. Plus, amazing rides, festive food, Christmas shopping and more. Selected dates available. paultonspark.co.uk/christmas
Santa’s Flying Visit at Army Flying Museum, Stockbridge, SO20 8FB Sat 7 Dec
Enjoy festive craft activities for children, as well as the chance to make magical reindeer food to take home for Christmas Eve and a festive trail to enjoy around the Museum. 10am-4pm. armyflying.com/what-s-on/events/ santa-s-flying-visit
Christmas Treat Trail at Whitchurch Silk Mill, RG28 7AL Sat 7 Dec
Collect a bag on arrival or bring your stocking and hunt high and low around the Mill grounds to find the Christmas treats left behind by the elves. £4.50. 10.30am–12pm whitchurchsilkmill.org.uk/event/ christmas-treat-trail
Visit Father Christmas at Tudor House & Garden, Southampton, SO14 2AD Sat-Sun 7-8, 14-15, 21-22 & Mon 16, 23 Dec
Discover the magic of Christmas at Tudor House. Enjoy a visit to Father Christmas in the Banqueting Hall complete with a gift. Get creative with a craft activity then relax with
a sweet treat in the café before exploring the museum with the Christmas Tudor House Mouse Trail. Tickets include admission to the house for one child and two adults and a visit to Father Christmas, a gift, one craft activity and one hot chocolate/juice and biscuit in the café per child. tudorhouseandgarde/christmas
Space Station Science at Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, SO21 1HZ
Sat 7 Dec-Mon 6 Jan
Find out if you’ve got what it takes to live and work in space. Space commanders are on the lookout for new recruits to join them at the Space Station Science Training Academy. 9.30am-5pm. winchestersciencecentre.org/ whats-on/space-station-science
Children’s Christmas Special at The Brickworks Museum, Swanwick, SO31 7HB
Sun 8 Dec
The smallest but sweetest event of the year is dedicated to everyone who truly believes in magic. Adults £8, child FREE. 11am-3pm. thebrickworksmuseum.org/event/ childrens-christmas-special-4
Children’s Christmas Crafts at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, SO51 0QA
Sat 14 Dec
Indoor craft activities. Learn about plants as you make beautiful gifts by leaf printing onto canvas and creating evergreen bundles. £6 per child. Ages 3+. 10am-2pm. hants.gov.uk/hilliergardens
Cosmic Christmas at Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ
Sat 14-Mon 23 Dec
Blast off on a live-action immersive festive space adventure for the whole family, meet the man in red himself and get a special Christmas gift. Young and old will be transported to an intergalactic wonderland as Christmas comes to life through an immersive theatrical experience like no other. A live show, magical effects and an out-of-thisworld journey through space on the Planetarium dome will come together as an original Christmas tale comes alive. Children will receive a special Christmas gift and there’ll even be time to meet Santa himself and snap a festive selfie. winchestersciencecentre.org/ whats-on/cosmic-christmas
Seasonal events
After Dark - Starlight Cinema: Elf at Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ Sat-Sun 14-15 Dec and Fri-Mon 20-23 Dec
Are you ready for a completely unique cinema experience? Sit back and relax as one of the most-loved Christmas movies, Elf plays out under the stars of the Planetarium. Child £8, adult £8, under 3s FREE. 5.45pm. winchestersciencecentre.org/ whats-on
Fizzy Painting: Christmas Trees at The Arc, Winchester, SO23 8SB Tue 17 Dec
A festive and fun-filled art workshop. Create colourful Christmas tree designs using a fizzy paint mixture made from baking soda, vinegar and water colours. £8. 4-5pm. All ages. hampshireculture.org.uk/event/ fizzy-painting-christmas-trees
Meet Santa at Monkey World, Wareham, BH20 6HH Thu 19-Sat 21 Dec
As well as meeting Santa and receiving a special present, your little monkeys can enjoy a festive fare, a Christmas trail around the park and make a present for the primates with Santa’s elves! The gift shop will be stocked full of new items, ideal as presents and of course, you’ll be able to see the 250 primates during a quieter time at the park. £10 per
child plus entrance fee. Book online. 10am-5pm. monkeyworld.org/events/santa-iscoming-to-monkey-world-2024
Mini Monets at Southampton City Art Gallery, SO14 7LY Sat 21 Dec
Experiment with different art styles, techniques and materials in a fun and accessible way. A great way to encourage your child’s creativity. Under 7s. £7.50. 10-11am. southamptonmuseums andgallery.co.uk
Christmas Eve Crafts: Paint a 2024 Bauble at The Arc, Winchester, SO23 8SB Tue 24 Dec
A delightful and creative festive workshop for children and families. Paint a personalised Christmas bauble to celebrate the year using a variety of paints, glitter and decorations. 10-11am, 11.30-12.30pm. £8 per child. hampshireculture.org.uk
Magic at Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES Mon 30 Dec
Whether you’re in need of a touch of magic or you are an aspiring magician, this performance promises to be fun for all. Each interactive show will be followed up by a magic workshop. Admission applies. hampshireculture.org.uk
