Families Hereford & Worcester November/December 2017 Issue 48 by Families Magazine

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Hereford & Worcester

Issue 48 November/December 2017

familiesonline.co.uk

Editor’s Letter Dear readers

The Countdown to Christmas has begun and if you want to save time when planning your annual festive days out take a look at our What’s On pages. You can then add that extra bit of magic and even plan your visit to see Father Christmas on pages 12 & 13. Panto season is upon us, so don’t miss your chance of winning tickets to Sleeping Beauty at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, See page 13. With 45% off discount tickets, it has got to be worth a visit to the Baby and Toddler Show at the NEC, Birmingham. A one-stop shop for all your parenting needs. See page 11 for details. We hope you have a wonderful Christmas. Diane Clifford. Editor, Families Hereford & Worcester 01684 770566 editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Advertise with us and reach over 44,000 parents. Next issue January/February. Booking deadline is Friday 8 December. Families Hereford & Worcester 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 Hereford & Worcester are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Hereford & Worcester. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but 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.

Christmas 2017 is set to be extra special with some fantastic events taking place in the city centre of Worcester, thanks to Crowngate Shopping Centre and local partners Worcester BID. From the end of November through to just before the big day, there’s something to get every member of the family feeling festive. Soak up the atmosphere at the Christmas lights’ switch on, Santa’s arrival and The Hive’s lantern parade and enjoy the fun at the free Elf Workshops in Crowngate for the kids, plus much more. See: www.christmasinworcester.com and www.crowngate-worcester.co.uk for more details. Award Winning Tuition: Explore Learning are offering all readers a free trial of their workshops at their centre in Redditch. To book a free trial call 030 3003 4006 and quote Families Hereford & Worcester magazine. www.explorelearning.co.uk

The Hope Tree Cards Join Festive Favourites At Brain Tumour Research Charity Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card for 2017. Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year. The Hope Tree cards will join other festive favourites in the charity’s range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital brain tumour research. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer. www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/christmas-cards

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

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Abberley Makes A Difference A school which took part in the ‘World's Biggest Coffee Morning' initiative raised over £400 for charity. Pupils hosted a cake sale at Abberley Hall School, based at Great Witley in Worcestershire, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Research. "We set up four stalls at different locations throughout the school and there was a huge selection of delicious goodies on sale,” said Victoria Beswick, marketing director of Abberley Hall, which educates over 250 pupils aged from two to 13years. Abberley Hall School arranges a series of events involving pupils and parents throughout the year to raise money for different charities and causes. www.abberleyhall.co.uk

Flyford Pippins Pre-School Has Now Moved House!

News & Views Christmas in Worcester city Join in with all Worcester has to offer for you and yours this festive season

Christmas light switch on

23 November 4pm-6pm High Street

Arrival of Father Christmas

26 November 12:30pm

Flyford Pippins Pre-School has relocated and is now neatly nestled within the gates of Flyford Flavell First School.

1 December to 3 December Worcester Cathedral

THE HIVE Lantern Parade

7 December

Crowngate

The Hive

Victorian Christmas Fayre

Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival

30 November to 3 December Worcester City Centre

Welcoming children from the age of two, Flyford Pippins offers wraparound care from as early as 7.30am until 5.45pm. During the day, the Pre-School can take full advantage of all of the resources and facilities which the First School has to offer. Just recently they were able to join with the Reception Class for an extremely exciting visit from a paramedic, complete with ambulance, blue lights and sirens!

Christmas Fayre in The Cloisters

Small Business Saturday

2 December Worcester City Centre

9 December Worcester Cathedral

CROWNGATE Elf Workshops

18 December to 24 December Friary Walk

For individual tours of both Pippins Pre-School and Flyford Flavell First School for prospective parents and children contact the school office directly on 01386 462228.

My Little Angel’s Home Service Educational specialist My Little Angel has started to run one-toone bespoke home visits for both children and adults in addition to its baby and toddler classes. “We offer baby and toddler sensory classes at different venues, as well as specialist one-toone bespoke sensory, music, percussion, and poetry sessions for older children, young people and adults within their own homes,” explains My Little Angel's Becky Comer. The service is aimed at those with special educational needs (SEN), physical and sensory needs, autism and depression. “I am a parent and have over twenty years of experience working with vulnerable families, SEN, mental health, learning and physical disability including autism and ADHD,” says Becky. www.my-littleangel.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Visit christmasinworcester.com or crowngate-worcester.co.uk for event listings

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Winter book selection. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website www.EdontheWeb.com.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Escape from the Tower by Santa Montefiore and Simon Sebag Montefiore

One Christmas Wish by Katherine Rundell

(Bloomsbury £14.99) ED SAYS: “It’s Christmas Eve and Theo is helping to decorate the Christmas tree. Theo’s parents are still at work and his babysitter has fallen asleep. He feels so alone. When he sees a strange looking star soaring across the sky he decides to make a wish. How he wishes not to be alone! Suddenly the decorations come to life and tell Theo that anything he would like to happen could happen. And so begins a magical adventure.”

Polly and the Puffin: The Happy Christmas by Jenny Colgan

(Simon & Schuster £10.99) ED SAYS: “Shylo Tawny-Tail is rather small but is big on a sense of adventure and is proud to be called one of the Royal Rabbits of London. They help to fight evil across the world but their immediate problem is near to home in London’s skyscraping Shard. There the terrible Ratzis are plotting to cause mayhem when the President of the United States of America is visiting. When Shylo is kidnapped it seems that all might be doomed. Will he be able to escape in time?”

Father Christmas And Me by Matt Haig Canongate £12.99)

(Little, Brown Books £7.99) ED SAYS: “Polly can’t wait for Christmas but it is taking an awfully long time to arrive. She and her puffin friend Neil have made their Christmas lists and practised the Nativity play but, when Polly’s mother says she will take Polly to see Santa, Polly is disappointed that Neil can’t go with them. Then Polly gives Santa the wrong list. Will they be able to sort things out in time for Christmas Day? And will a little puffling hatch in time for the celebrations?”

ED SAYS: “It sounds fun to be living in Elfhelm with your adoptive parents Father Christmas and Mary Christmas but, as Amelia has found out, as a human it is not always easy. Of course sleighcraft lessons and general happiness lessons can be more interesting than usual school subjects but it is extremely cold and singing Christmas songs every day does become rather tedious. When a jealous animal army launch an attack to stop Christmas, can Amelia with her family and the elves sort things out before it is too late?”

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You can contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com. See Maggie’s latest ebooks at www.WalkWalk.co.uk.

Flyford Pippins Pre-School incorporating

Pippins Pre-School

•Nestled in the heart of a family school in a rural setting

•Delightful, well-mannered children who are keen to learn

•Places available for children from 2 years of age

•Wrap around care 7.30 am – 5.45 pm

•Family school in a rural setting •Small class sizes in single year groups •Highly effective School Leadership •Experienced and skilled staff •Rich learning experience •Beautiful grounds

•Beautiful grounds •Magical Forest School area •Outdoor play area

•Dedicated, experienced and skilled pre-school staff •Access to all of the school’s resources & facilities

•Well resourced, spacious classrooms

•Rich learning experience

•Ten minutes from M5,J6

•A limited number of spaces available for the next

•Free trial stay and play session

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

58 Willow Close | Bromsgrove | B61 8RF 07518 287 598 becky@my-littleangel.co.uk

•Outdoor climbing equipment

academic year

New! SEN - Adults & Children! Music & Sensory Classes

Wheelbarrow photo

•Excellent pastoral care

Flyford Flavell First School Radford Road, Flyford Flavell, Worcs, WR7 4BU 01386 462228 office@flyfordflavell.worcs.sch.uk http://www.flyfordflavellfirstschool.com/

Fun and interactive educational classes for babies, toddlers and preschools in Bromsgrove, Redditch and beyond.

Pippins Pre-School Flyford Flavell First School Radford Road, Flyford Flavell, Worcs, WR7 4BU 01386 462228 office@flyfordflavell.worcs.sch.uk http://www.flyfordflavellfirstschool.com/

To advertise call: 01684 770566

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Education

Co-educational • Day, Weekly, Flexi and Full Boarding • 3 – 13 years

11+ Scholarships (For Year 7 entry in September 2018)

Academic, Sport, Drama, Music, Art and All-Round Application Deadline: Monday 11th December 2017 For more information, please contact Katherine Cox, Registrar 01684 544108 • registrar@thedowns.malcol.org • www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk

Action-packed

School Holiday

Ofsted registered

childcare Join us in February Half Term

We accept childcare vouchers

THE COME AND SEE US WINTERFOLD AT WORK AND WAY AT PLAY

Choice of venues

Hagley

Hagley High School

Independent Day School

Worcester

for boys and girls

Nunnery Wood High School

Alvechurch

Alvechurch Middle School and Crown Meadow First School

Bromsgrove

Lots of activities and sports to choose from

For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979 familiesonline.co.uk

aged 0 - 13

01562 777234 www.winterfoldhouse.co.uk

Winterfold House School, Chaddesley Corbett, Worcestershire DY10 4PW

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Education

Secret Lives Of 4 And 5 Year Olds Most parents and carers wish they could be a flyon-the-wall when their child starts school. Well, Channel 4’s Secret Lives of 4 & 5 year Olds which returns this November, allows them to do just that. Filmed in a specially rigged Essex school, the new series aims to give viewers a child’s perspective of their transition to a school setting. Families Magazine talked to Dr Elizabeth Kilbey, a psychologist from the show, about what she learnt whilst filming the series. Can you tell us more about the series? “It offers this wonderful window, through which we can watch the children playing and interacting. We give them lots of things to do, to see how they manage and play. It’s an amazing way of showing viewers what their children are actually doing at school.” How did the children cope with the transition to school? “Parents main worry is generally ‘will my child be alright?’ and some children are very anxious. A great example is that wonderful picture of Prince George looking a bit worried on his first day of school. What I can now confidently say is that children are absolutely fine, once they are gone. They are doing lots of interesting things and coping brilliantly.” Not all children cope with the transition so well, what advice would you give to them? “Take a calm, pragmatic approach. Essentially children tend to be worried about what they think might happen. In reality, they are going to be fine, but they don’t know that yet. Be confident and reassure your child that everything will be okay. Children are inherently social beings. They are curious and want to interact, with people, so even timid children will find something that sparks their imagination. Remember, the school setting is designed to engage them. It’s getting them to go which is the tough bit.” What advice can you give parents whose children haven’t started school yet? “Children need to develop communications skills, get used to talking and relating to others and playing cooperatively. All of these social abilities will be vital later in life. Encourage lots of play with other children and get them to question how things work because natural curiosity is the main driver for learning.” 6

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

How can kids deal with friendship issues, if they have fallen out with someone? “It’s very tempting as a parent to want to fix this problem, but children fall in and out of friendships hundreds of times a day and can usually sort issues out themselves. If the problem is more complicated and you think there is unkind behaviour or bullying, then an adult might need to step in. But on the whole, conflict, when you are learning to be social is perfectly normal. Ask your child, “Is there any thing you can do to sort the situation out?” Try and help them understand the other child’s perspective. As parents, we often overcomplicate issues. We can learn a lot from children, , particularly the way they are so open and forgiving.” How can we deal with the issue of gender with young children? I feel that gender isn’t particularly a driving force for children this age. They do make assumptions about children but they are happy for them to be corrected and they play on a much more straightforward basis. Gender becomes a much bigger issue for children towards the end of primary school. It’s important to encourage them to keep an open mind and understand that children of all ages and genders need the same opportunities because that is what is important for their development. Brains are not gendered, brains allow our children to learn. What can you do if a child is exhibiting OCD type behaviour? “Anxiety needs a non-emotional response and a calm authority can be incredibly helpful. It’s tempting to offer support to someone who is suffering by saying, “isn’t this terrible,” but this reinforces the idea that there is something to be scared of. Parents shouldn’t try to neutralise the anxiety or reinforce it; it is best to carry on, with business as usual. “If you are concerned or the behaviour is continuing over a long period of time and in more than one setting, get some advice from your school, GP or Health Visitor.” What was the most interesting insight you gained from watching the children? “I learnt that children of this age are hilarious and multi-layered. They are not that different from adults. They have amazingly rich social lives. They test hypotheses, ask questions, fail and then carry on. They are resilient and incredibly complicated, just like we are.”

To advertise call: 01684 770566

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Education

You’ve Met The Teacher. Now What?

So you’ve been to a meeting with your child’s teacher and you’ve got an overview of how your child is progressing. But what do you do next?

Discuss with your child the feedback from their teacher, they may already be aware of what they need to work on but if they don’t, talk about it. Set a goal together of something they would like to achieve based on their feedback and aim to complete this by the end of next term. Make a plan together about how they are going to get there. For example: You’re told they give up every time they have to learn something new, especially times tables. The goal you come up with together is to have a can-do attitude. Steps to getting there could be taking a new set of tables and learning them in small batches. Praise them for the ones they have got right alongside highlighting when they are being positive towards their learning so they know what kind of attitude is expected. If you’ve set any goals with the teacher, then plan a time to review these. Depending on how the teacher likes to work this could be an email, call or face to face catch up 6-8 weeks after the initial meeting. Review how things are going and make changes if needed. You may come away from a meeting and realise you’ve forgotten something or you don’t understand how the school is

reporting on progress. Contact the school if you still have questions, or look on their website as you should find a wealth of information on there. Ask others for help, don’t worry if you don’t understand something or want to know what others are doing. Lots of people will be in the same position. Alternatively, there are some great advice websites like www.theschoolrun.co.uk and www.oxfordowl.co.uk or if you have a tutor, talk to them. At Explore Learning our tutors always help parents when they need advice and will take into account your child’s recent reports when tailoring their learning. Never be afraid to ask. Book your FREE trial at your local centre in Redditch today. Call 030 3003 4006 or online www.explorelearning.co.uk

We’re giving them the confidence to tackle the new school year fearlessly!

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

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To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Recipe

Christmas Granola A Gift In The Making Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Potter in Herefordshire have been offering pottery and clay experiences to their customers, for well over 20 years. Making a pot on the potters wheel is both satisfying and therapeutic. Christmas is the perfect opportunity to treat your loved ones to a memorable present with an Eastnor Pottery gift voucher.Vouchers can be purchased £5, £10, £20 and £100 configurations. A £20.00 voucher will entitle the recipient to make a pot on the potter’s wheel inclusive of painting, firing and glazing. For gift vouchers tel: 01531 633886 or email admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk

Mix and bake this delicious granola with the children for a quick and healthy breakfast on Christmas morning or as great gift.

Ingredients

Method 300g oat flakes • Pre-heat the oven to 130 degC 2 little handfuls pumpkin seeds • Mix all the ingredients together in 150g unsweetened desiccated coconut a bowl except for the cranberries 2 little handfuls sunflower seeds and raisins. Add a dash of water to 150ml vegetable oil help mix. 2 little handfuls dried cranberries and/or • Spread the mixture out on a raisins baking tray. 1 tsp cinnamon • Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring 1tsp vanilla extract halfway through. 8 tbsp carob syrup (sometimes called • Leave to cool before stirring Carob molasses) or date syrup through the cranberries and/or raisins.

This granola tastes great on it’s own or as a snack layered with yoghurt, honey and fruit. It also makes a wonderful gift spooned into glass canisters or cellophane bags tied with a pretty ribbon. To join Fiona at her Cookery Doodle Doo children’s classes please visit: cookerydoodledoo.com or phone 07475883019

Established 1992 Fully Qualified Instructors Specialised Classes 4 – 16 years Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced

Train with Sensei Jags Shoker, 3rd Dan

Call 01684 770566 to advertise in Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine 8

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

To advertise call: 01684 770566

Monday: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Droitwich Spa 5.00 – 6.00pm Wed & Fri: The Parish Centre, Barnt Green 5.30 – 6.30pm Friday: Parkside Middle School, Bromsgrove 3.40 – 4.40pm Saturday: St Peters RC First School, Bromsgrove 9.15–10.15 am Special offer 5 FREE www.kombatkids.com lessons

01543 473408 / 07730 899722 register@kombatkids.com

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Bullying Is Still An Issue

Bullying

When you send your child off to school you do so in the hope that they will be safe from harm. Sadly, for some children this is not the case and bullying is still an issue in many schools today. By Jane Rogers So what are the signs to look out for? There may be some obvious signs: If your child has been physically hurt or had their possessions stolen or broken, this should ring an alarm bell. Your child may tell you they are being bullied: Children who are being bullied can be divided roughly into two categories: those who tell an adult about it and those who don’t. If your child tells you that another child has been unkind to them, it’s important to make the time to listen. A change in behaviour: Children who are being bullied may become withdrawn and anxious, or they may display angry and aggressive behaviour. Any unusual behaviour needs to be investigated. Sleep disturbance: If your child begins to have trouble sleeping, ask yourself if there could be something bothering them.

To help stamp out bullying talk to your school about getting involved in Anti-Bullying Week running from 13 to 17 November. Run by the Anti-Bullying Alliance, the week aims to support schools with a range of free activities to prevent bullying and create a safe environment for pupils. www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

Anxiety about going to school: Again, if this is a change in behaviour, it’s time to explore what the reasons might be. How to help your child. Listen to your child and stay calm. However upset or angry you may feel, try to put those feelings to one side while your child is talking to you about what is happening to them. This is an opportunity for you to begin to teach your child how to approach and hopefully solve difficult problems. Staying calm and rational is a very useful skill. Encourage your child to learn how to shrug off teasing. A bully will always home in on someone who seems weaker, and who gives them the reaction they want. Verbal bullying can be very hurtful to your child, but it’s useful to explain to them that a bully will bully all the more if they see a reaction. Although your child may be hurting inside, encourage them not to show it. Give them a chance to role play some scenarios at home, so that they can practice ways to react. Ask your child what they want you to do. When my son was bullied at primary school, he wanted me to go to the school and sort it out. I remember him saying “I don’t think the adults know how bad it is.” He had tried to sort it out himself, but it hadn’t worked, so now he was taking a different approach. familiesonline.co.uk

Encourage your child to try to tackle their own problems, but always be there for them when they get to the point of asking for your help. Build self- esteem. Prevention is always better than cure. Children who are confident and have good self-esteem are less likely to be bullied. That’s not to say it won’t happen, but people with resilience will always fare better.

What if my child is the bully? If this is the case then spend some time trying to work out why this could be happening. People become bullies for a number of reasons. • Low self- esteem Those who don’t think much of themselves on the inside may feel the need to make themselves look ‘big’ on the outside. • Following the crowd Bullies can sometimes appear to be very popular and being part of the ‘in’ crowd can be very important to young people. • For safety If the jungle that is the school playground feels unsafe, then it may make sense to your child to align themselves to the person who looks the strongest. • Learned behaviour Children who witness bullying behaviour around them may copy that behaviour and turn into a bully themselves. And finally: If you have real concerns always talk to your child’s school about it. All schools should have a bullying policy. Jane Rogers is a parenting expert and founder of The Cambridge Parent Coach. Her two parent workbooks are available on Amazon. You can follow ‘The Cambridge Parent Coach’ on Facebook.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Childcare

Can You Really Get 30 Hours Of Free Childcare Per Week? To be eligible, children must be 3 or 4 years old, each parent (or sole parent) must be working, based in England and earning more than £120 per week (for those aged 25 or over) and no more than £100,000 year. Participating childcare settings include nurseries and nursery classes, playgroups and pre-schools, childminders and Sure Start Children’s Centres. The key word is ‘participating’ as not all childcare settings will be participating in the scheme. Parents who are not eligible will be able to continue receiving 15 hours of funded childcare. Those who become ineligible after commencing to use 30 hours funded childcare will receive a ‘grace period’ of 30 hours funded care, before returning to the 15 hour entitlement. One of the key issues is the negative impact of the 30 hours funded childcare on the business models of childcare providers. This is because the hourly rate received by the provider from the Government may not cover the running costs of setting, leading to a funding shortfall. As a result, some providers have chosen to opt out of the scheme all together, whilst others will be charging parents for additional things such as nappies and food, or charging more for babies and children under 2 years old, meaning that the so-called ‘free’ childcare may not actually be free at all. By Ben Black The recent increase from 15 to 30 hours of free early education and childcare per week brings with it no shortage of complications for parents looking to take advantage of the scheme – and confusion is rife. In theory, the new 30 hours of free childcare scheme should be hugely helpful for parents of 3 and 4 year olds in England who will be eligible. However, there are sure to be some difficulties in the transition and the reality may be somewhat different from what was envisaged. Applications must be made by parents through the Government’s childcare service on the gov.uk website the term before they plan to start using free childcare. There are strict termly deadlines for application, so it's important for parents to keep a close eye on the Government’s cut off dates - or they will miss out on funding for the following term. If parents are eligible, they’ll receive a code that will allow them to arrange their childcare place with any childcare provider on Ofsted’s Early Years Register. This code will allow for childcare with the provider for three months, before the code expires. Parents will be notified before the expiry date, giving them the opportunity to log back in and either confirm or update their circumstances.

The consequence of childcare providers opting out of the scheme is that parents need to act as quickly as possible to secure the places that are on offer. Some providers may choose to offer only some of the funded hours, so parents may also need to consider splitting their childcare between more than one setting. Another factor to consider is the time period over which the funded childcare hours are distributed. The existing 15 hours are usually taken weekly over 38 weeks and many participating parents in the new 30 hours scheme will be expecting to use them in the same way. However, childcare providers are perfectly entitled to offer fewer hours over a longer period. Whilst this may be helpful for parents looking to spread the hours out to cover more weeks, it will mean that you actually get fewer than 30 hours of funded childcare each week. It is important that parents are fully aware of all their options. Check eligibility and in particular, discern whether your preferred childcare setting will offer some – or all – of the free hours and how they will implement the scheme. Ben Black is CEO at My Family Care. You can find out more information on the new childcare options on the My Family Care website at www.myfamilycare.co.uk, as well as on the HMRC’s new Childcare Choices website at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk. This also gives information about the new Tax Free Childcare Scheme. familiesonline.co.uk

Childcare Active Camps In Safe Hands

Action-packed, Ofsted registered childcare throughout the school holidays for children aged 4-14. Aspire Active Camps provide sports and activity childcare during every school holiday throughout the year.

Our number one aim is to ensure your child has fun. However, safety is paramount and as an Ofsted registered provider, we go that extra mile giving you peace of mind in knowing that your child is cared for in the best environment possible. We provide fantastic early booking offers for those booking in advance. We also offer discounts and a loyalty scheme to our valued customers. As we are Ofsted registered you are also able to pay via childcare vouchers. www.aspire-sports.co.uk

Save Money On Tickets For New Baby To Toddler Event

The organisers of the fantastic Baby Show are bringing a brand new event to the NEC this winter. Baby To Toddler, the shopping event for modern parents, is a two day shopping event in association with Baby Planet and will give visitors access to exclusive offers and Black Friday deals from some of the biggest baby and toddler brands you know and trust. Taking place at: Birmingham NEC on the weekend of 2 – 3 December. Exhibitors will also include not-onthe high street boutique brands. It is the one-stop-shop for everything parents need. Attendees will also be given the chance to purchase a Project Baby Goody Bag worth up to £30 for just £1! 50p of which will be donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital. On the door tickets are £12 but Families Magazine readers can have a 45% discount* to £6.50 using the code FAMILIESHW via www.babytotoddlerevents.co.uk. *Saving is based on the standard on-the-door ticket price of £12. Advance Box Office closes midnight 1 Dec 2017. £1 transaction fee applies.

EVERYONE IS EXCITED to meet you!

HEY Bromsgrove! YOUR NEW Sports and Leisure Centre is COMING soon... • 25m 6-lane swimming pool and a 10m x 15m small pool • Three group exercise studios offering 80+ classes • 100+ gym stations with the latest Technogym® equipment • Clip ‘n Climb

* e e f g in in jo 1 £ y a p d n a w o Join n * Offer valid until 30 November 2017. UK bank holders only, 16+. Direct debit membership. Must pay one month in advance, this will be used to cover your final month. Participating centres only. Must cancel by 20th of month in order for the DD payment to stop on the 1st of the following month. A joining fee of £1 applies. See www.everyoneactive.com/joinfor1 for full terms.

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BECOME A FOUNDER MEMBER TODAY www.everyoneactive.com/NowHere

Everyone Active works in partnership with Bromsgrove District Council

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Christmas

It is that time of year again when our thoughts return to the North Pole and who has been good this year. Here is where you can track down Santa and tell him what is on your Christmas list this year...

Where To Find

s a m t s i r h Father C

All Things Wild, Station Road, Honeybourne, Nr Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 7QZ 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk Magical Christmas Experience 5-26 November, 2 -3, 9-10, 16-17, 20-24 December The Elves have gone wild at All Things Wild! Those cheeky elves have gone wild, hidden all the presents and caused loads of mischief. Visit the Magical Christmas Experience to help get the elves back under control, visit Father Christmas in his magical grotto, see his reindeer and get involved in lots of festive fun! Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ. 01299 250416, www. museumsworcestershire.org.uk Christmas at the Castle 9-10 December A chance to meet Father Christmas, as well as horse and carriage rides, seasonal gifts and craft stalls, fun children’s activities and performances by local choirs and musical groups. Clearwell Caves, The Rocks, Coleford, GL16 8JR www.clearwellcaves.com Underground Adventure 1 - 23 December, 27 December - 1 January Displays only. Children see Father Christmas in his spectacular underground cavern, choose a present, then walk through the wonderful Christmas displays, which this year tells the curious tale of ‘Cora and the Bloobious Bright’. Follow them on an exciting journey set beneath the sea Bewdley Museum, Load Street, Bewdley, DY12 1AT. 01299 403573 www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/museum Santa’s Grotto 16 - 17 December Visit Santa in his magical Wonderland for one weekend only. 12

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

Crowngate Shopping Centre, Worcester, WR1 3LE 01905 610065 www.crowngate-worcester.co.uk Arrival of Father Christmas 26 November -24 December. Father Christmas is coming to Worcester and arriving in style (but not on his sledge!) When they arrive at 12.30pm Father Christmas and the cheeky elves will head down the high street to meet the shoppers of Worcester. Santa will be dropped off at Crowngate shopping centre where children will then be able to come and meet him in his grotto.

The Severn Valley Railway, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX.01562 757900 www.svr.co.uk Santa Steam Specials 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 & 24 December Travel by steam train from Kidderminster to Arley. Santa Heralds 19- 22 December Journey with Father Christmas from Kidderminster to Highley. Webbs Garden Centre, Wychbold, Droitwich, WR9 0DG. 01527 860000 www.webbsdirect.co.uk Christmas Grotto 11 November –24 December A fantastic, festive journey to meet the elves in the workshop, explore a wintery wonderland and finally emerge into Father Christmas’ cosy house to meet the jolly fellow himself. Christmas Ice Rink 4 November – 2 January Skate whatever the weather on real ice under the clear roof. Cob House, Worcester Road, Wichenford WR6 6YE. 01886 888517, www.cobhouse.org Breakfast with Santa 16 – 24 December Storytime with Santa 10 December Tea and Story time with Santa. Children can enjoy a hot dinner and get a small gift from Santa and a certificate

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Christmas Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Father Christmas at Avoncroft 16, 22-23 December Father Christmas has taken time out of his busy schedule to visit his favourite museum. Have a go at festive craft while you wait for ‘the big man’ to arrive with his sack full of presents!

Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY. 01527 62509 www.forgemill.org.uk Christmas Market 2-3 December Victorian festive atmosphere with food and craft stalls, Father Christmas in his grotto, carol singing and Christmas crafts for kids. Bodenham Arboretum, Wolverley, Kidderminster, DY11 5TB 01562 852444, www.bodenham-arboretum.co.uk Christmas Nativity Trail 25 November – 1 January Follow the stars and answer the Christmas questions as you go before reaching the LIVE Nativity Scene in the barn buildings; you may even be lucky enough to see an new born baby donkey. Little Owl Farm Park, Owl Hill Lane, Dunhampton, DY13 9SS. 01905 620325 www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk Come and meet Santa 2-23 December Hunt for Elves hidden around the park, and enjoy Christmas decorations and refreshments! Visit Santa and choose a present from Santa’s workshop! Arley Arboretum & Gardens, Upper Arley, Near Bewdley, DY12 1SQ 01299 861368 www.arleyarboretum.co.uk/ Santa visits Arley weekends in December Meet Santa and his Elf. Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW. 01568 780246 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croftcastle/ Santa’s Workshop weekends in December Find Father Christmas in his workshop and enjoy some Christmassy crafts while you wait. Don’t forget your Christmas lists!

WIN PANTO TICKETS!

Festive Farm, Wellington, Hereford, HR4 8AP. www.dinmore-christmas-trees.co.uk Santa’s Grotto 2 - 17 December Bring along the whole family to enjoy a journey through a magical winter wonderland! At the end of your journey you meet Father Christmas. Hereford (Wyevale) Garden Centre, Kings Acre Road, Hereford, HR4 0SE 0844 288 5021 www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/christmas-grottos Breakfast with Santa 18 November - 24 December Bring your Little Diggers along and enjoy a delicious, freshly-prepared breakfast The Orchard Café, Worcester Woods Country Park, Wildwood Drive, Worcester WR5 2LG 01905 766 492 www.theorchardcafe.co.uk Breakfast With santa 16, 17, 22-24 December Come and join Santa for breakfast. Get a delicious award winning breakfast, a drink, a one to one chat with Santa in his grotto and a pressie! Maylord Shopping Centre, Hereford, HR1 2DT 01432 278083 www.maylordshoppingcentre.co.uk Santa’s Magical Grotto 23 November - 24 December Take a journey through Santa’s magical grotto. familiesonline.co.uk

Panto season is just around the corner (Oh Yes It is!…) and we have an opportunity for you to win a family ticket (2 adults, 2 Children) to see the magical tale of Sleeping Beauty at The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX on Tuesday 5 December at 5.45pm.www.rosestheatre.org To be in with a chance of winning answer the following: Q: Who woke Sleeping Beauty? a. Maleficent b. Prince Philip c. Aurora Enter via email by Friday 24 November. Put ‘Panto’ in the subject line of your message, and send your answer, your name, postal address and mobile number to editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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What’s On

Please check with the venue in case details have changed

EVENTS Goodrich Castle, Castle Lane,

Christmas in Worcester

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Stir Up Sunday Make your own Christmas pudding, we will steam it and then it will be ready for collection 26 November Candlelit Christmas A magical evening filled with traditional Christmas cheer with music, choir, Christmas sparkle and lots more. Pre-booking essential. 2 December Avoncroft Carol Service Traditional carol service in Mission Church 16 December 5.00pm Free Deck The Halls! Christmas is coming and our historic houses will be traditionally decorated for the festivities, illustrating seasonal traditions through the ages. 5-8, 12-15, 19-22 December

Join in with all Worcester has to offer for you and Worcestershire County Museum, yours this festive season. Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Christmas light switch on Nr Kidderminster DY11 7XZ 23 November 4-6pm 01299 250416 Worcester High Street museumsworcestershire.org.uk www.christmasinworcester.com Christmas At The Castle A Arrival of Father Christmas traditional Christmas celebration 26 November, from 12.30pm with seasonal stalls, entertainment Crowngate Shopping Centre and performances by local choirs www.crowngate-worcester.co.uk and musical groups. Enjoy family Worcester Victorian activities including stirring the Christmas Fayre Christmas pudding, carol singing and 30 November – 3 December horse and carriage rides. 9 -10 www.worcestercitymarkets.co.uk December 11.00 – 4.00 pm. Christmas Fayre in The Cloisters 1 December – 3 December www.worcestercathedral.co.uk Small Business Saturday 2 December Worcester city centre www.worcesterbid.com Worcester Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival 9 December www.worcestercathedral.co.uk The Hive Lantern Parade Hampton Court Castle and 7 December Gardens, Hope-under-Dinmore, www.thehiveworcester.org Leominster, HR6 0PN Elf Workshops 01568 797676, 18 December – 24 December www.hamptoncourt.org.uk Friary Walk, Crowngate Christmas Fair A Christmas Fair www.crowngate-worcester.co.uk in the beautifully decorated Castle with a wide range of gifts from local For more information visit craftspeople for all the family. Mince www.christmasinworcester.com pies and mulled wine available. 1-3 December. 10.30am - 5.00 pm 14

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

Goodrich, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire HR9 6HY 01600 3331181, www.english-heritage.org.uk Carols In The Chapel Local musicians and minstrels with an evening of traditional carols in the atmospheric castle chapel. 8 December 7.00 pm National Trust 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW 01568 615721 Georgian Christmas Learn all about their eccentric celebrations, their strange habits and how they got their Georgian festivities into full swing. 18 November – 17 December (weekends only) 10.00am – 3.00pm Brockhampton Estate, Greenfields, Bringsty, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB 01885 482077 Christmas In The 50’s Trail Children in the 1950’s had a very different lifestyle to young people today. Find out what Christmas meant to a young person in the 50’s with this fun family trail. 18 November - 17 December (weekends only) 10.00am – 3.00pm Carols In Ihe Great Hall Join us in the Great Hall as we bring Brockhampton to life with some traditional carols. 17 December 12:30-2.00pm Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW 01568 780246 A Christmas Carol Trail Lots of Christmas characters have hidden themselves around the grounds. 18 November - 17 December (weekends only) 10am– 3.00pm Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 Christmas Market What crafty and yummy goodies will you find and take home with you today? There’s lots to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice. 2-3 December 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Christmas Card Making Join our crafter and make your own Georgian themed Christmas card 19 and 22 December

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Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214 Handmade & Artisan Fayre Find one-off gifts and indulgent treats in an inspiring setting with shopping, music and food and drink. 11-12 November 10.00am-4.00pm The Hive, Sawmill Walk, The Butts, Worcester, WR1 3PD 01905 765576 www.thehiveworcester.org Hive Lantern Parade Have fun making the lanterns at The Hive and then show off your creation in a magical Christmas parade. 25-26 November, 2-3 December - Parade 7 December Hereford Christmas Lights Weekend The start of the Christmas season with a weekend of treats and lighting up the city. 18-19 November Castle Green Hereford HR1 2NX Christmas Fair on Castle Green A family event with a great Christmas market showcasing all you need for those very special presents and stocking fillers. Enjoy live festive music and plenty of free activities for children – Snow Queen, Winter Wonderland, Meet the reindeer and enjoy mulled wine and cider plus cakes at the Friends of Castle Green cafe. 26 November 10-4pm Hereford Race Course Roman Road Hereford HR4 9QU Christmas Jumper Raceday Back by popular demand is the only weekend fixture this Autumn, the day is a fantastic way to get into the festive spirit and enter the Christmas Jumper competition! 16 December familiesonline.co.uk

Please mention you saw this event in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine Magazine

Family Fun At The Theatre... Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330 www.artrix.co.uk Cinderella The most famous pantomime of them all! The classic rags to riches story! 16 – 23 December Times and prices differ so see website. The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Sleeping Beauty This family pantomime will be packed with colourful characters, side splitting comedy, show-stopping musical routines, plenty of magic and sparkle. 25 November – 6 January Times and prices differ so check website Evesham Arts Centre , Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Aladdin Follow Aladdin as he goes in search of wealth & fortune. 24- 28 January 2018 7.30pm (Weekend 2.30pm matinee) £12.00 Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Cinderella A magical show for all the family, starring This Morning’s Alison Hammond as the Fairy Godmother alongside Gemma Naylor from Nick. Jr’s Go! Go! Go! show as Cinderella! 14 December - 7January. Times and prices differ so see websites Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org Jack & the Beanstalk Come and follow Jack, his hapless brother Simple Simon, and their mother Dame Trot as they climb the beanstalk. Presented by Pershore Operatic & Dramatic Society 4-9 December 7.30pm and 2.30pm Saturday matinee. £11.00-£15.00 Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Worcester’s Most Magical Family Pantomime!

Alice in Wonderland JR Travel down the rabbit hole and join Alice, one of literature’s most beloved heroines, in her madcap adventures. amateur production. 9-10 December Saturday 7.00pm, Sunday 2.30pm £10/£8

BEN HUMPHREY as Dame Ginny

The Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Snow White Britain’s Got Talent winner Jai McDowall is sure to charm audiences with his powerhouse vocal talents as Snow White’s handsome prince, while kids’ TV legend Dave Benson Phillips is set to play the adorable panto funny man Muddles! 6 - 31 December Various times so see website £13.50 - £21.50 The Rose Theatre, Chester Road North, Broadwaters, Kidderminster, DY10 2RX www.rosetheatre.co.uk Sleeping Beauty With Ben Crocker once again at the helm, you can be sure of another truly spectacular experience. 2-31 December Various times so see website £12.00 - £27.50,

What’s On

Direct from West End’s Matilda The Musical

LIZ GRAND as Carabosse

OLIVER BROOKS as Silly Billy

worcester repertory company presents:

Written by Chris Jaeger Directed by Ben Humphrey

VICTORIA LUCIE as Princess Aurora