Families Hampshire West July/Aug 23 PRINT issue

Editor Rebecca Carr

editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk 07789 882467

Sales Claire Clarricoates

claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk 07812 218331

Next issue: September/October

Booking deadline: 2 August

Readership of over 40,000 local parents, carers and teachers every issue. Published six times a year.

Cover image: Depositphotos.com

Welcome

Summer is finally here! And if you haven’t started planning fun things to do during the long summer school holidays, now is your chance.

We have loads of fabulous ‘boredom busting’ ideas for projects to keep the kids busy - many are low cost, free, educational –or even explore ways in which your kids can use technology constructively! Check out fun Forest School activities to do outdoors, let the kids in the kitchen to make some simple family meals or plan a day at the seaside with our fantastic UK beach guide.

Going away on holiday is a pleasure but the endless ‘Are we there yet?’ questions from your kids as you travel are definitely NOT. So, before you go, take a look at our advice on dealing with this situation. And if you’re taking the family to a festival this summer, read our top tips for getting the most out of it.

Meanwhile, there’s loads of inspiration for family fun on your doorstep this summer in our What’s On guide. It’s time to get out and about!

Look out for another Orchard Toys game giveaway – we have NEW games bundles to giveaway! Apply inside and you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

© Families Hampshire West 2023. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.

Rebecca Editor, Families Hampshire West

Tennis summer holiday camps available in Winchester

Delgado Tennis are delighted to announce they are running summer holiday camps from Monday 17 July to Thursday 24 August at St Swithun’s School in Winchester.

Delgado Tennis Camps are entering their second year at St Swithun’s School and has, so far, opened its doors to hundreds of players from the local community to enjoy their holiday camps.

Camps are open to all children ages 4 to 14. Groups are arranged according to age and ability, so whether you are an absolute beginner or budding superstar, the camps will give you the opportunity to improve your child’s tennis whilst having fun. All coaches are LTA qualified and licensed and are DBS checked.

Camp options available: 9am-12noon, 1-4pm, 9am-4pm or 8.30am-5pm. There is a discount available when booking the whole week.

For more information and to book a summer tennis camp visit www.delgadotennis.co.uk

Promote your classes, clubs, workshops or holiday camps in our next issue.

Book by 2 August.

Email editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk for more information.

Summer holiday and term time fun with Perform

Perform are ensuring a fun-packed summer with their Wizard of Oz drama, dance and singing holiday courses plus their first ever festival of children’s theatre, Perform in the Park.

Children can sing and dance down the yellow brick road with the Wizard of Oz. With colourful costumes, uplifting songs and dazzling dancing, children ages 4 to 10 will have the best fun of the summer as they bring this story to life. These five-day courses run from Monday 24 to Friday 28 July, 10am to 3pm each day at Holy Trinity Parish Church in Winchester. Book online at www.perform.org.uk/wizard

Perform’s term time classes are back in September and there’s no better time for your child to try Perform. Packed with selfesteem boosting activities, Perform’s weekly classes get the academic year off to a flying start with a fun and relaxed focus on developing confidence, communication, co-ordination and concentration. Using a mix of drama, dance and singing, these high-energy classes are designed to allow even the most reticent children to shine.

Classes are for all abilities and every child is welcome to try a FREE class in:

Chandlers Ford: Chandler’s Ford Methodist Church, SO53 2GJ

Lymington: St Thomas Church Hall, SO41 9ND

Romsey: United Abbey Reform Church, SO51 8EL

Southampton: Highfield Church Centre, SO17 1RL

Winchester: Holy Trinity Parish Church, SO23 8DG

Book a FREE class at www.perform.org.uk/try

Woodland Holiday Clubs

Join

Children’s drama school Perform is embarking on its first ever children’s theatre festival this summer in London. The six week festival includes four musicals, two of which are original productions, with shows running daily from 22 Jul to 28 Aug. The line-up includes The Three Billy Goats Gruff, a smash hit musical adventure for 2-6 year olds and, based on Mo Willems’ wonderful book, Elephant and Piggie’s We are in a Play! for children ages 3-8. Perform’s brand-new Caribbean adventure, Mermaids & Pirates, will be presented for ages 4-11 whilst, for ages 7-14, another original show from Perform, The Dream, inspired by Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.As well as these four fantastic musicals for children ages 2-14, there are evening events for teens too. www.performinthepark.uk

Preventing summer brain drain

By Jemma Z Smith

Summer holidays are fabulous but all too often the return to school in September can come as a bit of a shock to the system. How do you spell that word again? What’s that fractions rule? The feeling of forgetting everything is really common (for adults too!).

Here are some fun activities you can do over the long summer break to keep everyone’s minds in tip top condition and just as sharp as in term time.

Times table bingo

This can be a really good way of practising your times tables. There are lots of free and downloadable resources out there but essentially all you need is paper, pencils and perhaps a times table square that you can refer to.

While you’re in the maths zone, try making up dice games. For example, start with three or more dice and set challenges: can you roll a number higher than… an even number, a prime number or a number in a certain times table. The possibilities are endless. Assign points to the winner and make it as competitive as you wish!

Kim’s game

This is a popular memory game that you can play anywhere. Find ten objects and place them on a tray or picnic blanket. Everyone has a good look, then all but one person closes their eyes and an item is silently removed. Can the kids remember what has been taken? For variation, cover the tray and everyone has to try to remember the whole list of ten objects.

Story stones

This is a lovely, artistic way of keeping the kids’ imaginations and creativity firing. Firstly, you need to go on a walk and find some smooth pebbles suitable for painting on. The idea is then that each stone is used to paint a different section of a story. Acrylic paint or permanent markers are the best to decorate stones. The kids can even act out the story later.

Lights, camera, action!

Feeling dramatic? Encourage the kids to become a news broadcaster for the day! They can take on the role of a character and choose something that they want to talk about. Will it be scary or funny? Who will be the interviewee, the director, camera person and lighting technician? Then, of course, they will need to prepare a timed script and practise speaking clearly in front of an attentive audience.

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

Combining activities

Turn a long walk into a treasure hunt. There are lots of downloadable online activities or you could make your own. Ideas include finding items which begin with a certain letter, a particular shape or colour.

Rainy days call for some baking – and some maths too! Can your child work out the correct ingredient amounts for a delicious recipe? How much more is needed to halve or double the number of buns?

Going on holiday? There are always lots of anagrams, sudoku puzzles and crosswords which will make long car journeys go much more quickly. These can be especially helpful for 11+ practice as they help to build up a rich vocabulary, help with verbal reasoning type activities and keep maths skills strong. Don’t forget board games. Counting steps on a board, rolling doubles, working with money in Monopoly and keeping score all keep children’s maths brains sharp. Filling a Scrabble board exercises word skills. Just make sure you have some good snacks at the ready to keep everyone happy when the competition gets fierce!

The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children ages 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their Challenge certificate and medal.

The theme for this year is Ready, Set, Read! and the Challenge is being delivered in partnership with national children’s charity The Youth Sport Trust and public libraries.

This year, the Challenge aims to keep children’s minds and bodies active over the summer break, empowering young people to forge new connections with others and unleash the power of play, sport and physical activity through reading.

The Challenge launched in libraries in England on 24 June and will continue through September.

More information at www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Help your child with school transition

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

While moving to a new class or new school can be challenging for kids, most adapt to changes within the first few weeks as routines are established and new friendships formed.

Preparation is a key component which can make a huge difference to the readiness of your child. At the same time, emotional resilience greatly helps children adapt to different environments, routines and social dynamics. So, how can parents support children through their journey of change and uncertainty?

Encourage open communication

Open communication is essential in helping children express their worries and concerns. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings and validate their emotions. Set aside dedicated time and spaces for these conversations. This can be as simple as the walk or drive home from school or over a snack at the end of the day.

Develop problem solving skills

Encourage your child to identify potential challenges and discuss possible solutions together. This will help them feel more prepared while developing their own problem-solving skills. Encourage your child to be open to new experiences, emphasising the importance of adaptability in overcoming challenges.

Model resilience

By modelling resilience you provide a powerful example for your child to follow, helping them develop the emotional strength needed to adapt to new experiences. Give examples of your own coping strategies, taking care to maintain a positive spin. Show your child that change is a natural part of life and discuss the exciting opportunities that the new academic year will bring.

Emphasise the importance of self-care

Establish healthy routines including regular sleep, exercise and healthy eating. Encourage participation in a range of out of school activities that they enjoy. This will help them better manage their own stress and maintain a positive outlook during times of change.

Celebrate success

Acknowledge and celebrate your child’s achievements and milestones during transition. Praising their ability to overcome

Starting primary school

Starting primary school can be an exciting yet daunting new chapter for you and your child. The most useful thing you can do is prepare them ahead of their first day:

Practise getting dressed, using the toilet, opening a lunchbox, using cutlery.

Play games which involve turn taking and social skills.

Help your child recognise their name so they can keep track of clothes and find their peg.

Acknowledge your own feelings and anxieties. This is the start of your child’s journey away from you and that can be challenging. Recognise this is normal but try to keep those emotions away from your child.

Talk about your child’s day, emphasising the positive but be ready to help them with any worries they might express. Make time to talk and listen.

Expect teething troubles and always speak to the teacher if you have particular concerns.

challenges boosts confidence. Keep the open communication going so it becomes a habit. Children need to know you will always be behind them through and beyond their teens. Remain patient and understanding as each child’s experience is unique and developing emotional resilience takes time and practice.

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.

Top tips for choosing school shoes for the new term

By Caroline French

Children spend around eight hours a day in their school shoes, so it is important that they fit correctly and are comfortable.

You really do get what you pay for with a good quality school shoe. They will wear better; you can allow for more growing room as they are designed to fit the foot more effectively and they will be comfier due to the quality of the materials used such as softer leather, more cushioning, support and shock absorbency. Here are some top tips when choosing shoes:

• If your child is hard on their shoes, choose designs that have a toe bumper and look for slightly thicker soles that are still flexible.

• It’s good to try different brands as some will suit your child’s feet more than others.

• Try and choose a rounder shaped toe that doesn’t taper off too quickly to allow for ultimate growing room. It is often the little toe that will get caught and rub as the foot grows into the narrower part of the shoe.

• You should have leather or breathable textile linings to help keep feet as cool as possible.

• Patent can wear better than leather and be easier to keep clean but is less breathable and not as good if your child is prone to having sweaty feet.

• Don’t leave school shoe shopping till the last minute! You will get a better of choice of styles and sizes and avoid the queues if you come before mid-August.

Caroline French runs W. J French & Son, a family run shoe shop stocking a wide selection of well-known brands and sizes, located in Southampton. Their experienced fitters provide a one-to-one fitting service and make shopping a stress-free experience. www.wjfrenchandson.co.uk

Kids in the kitchen

Cooking empowers kids in the kitchen and gives them lifelong skills for when someday (not so long away), they’ll be preparing meals for themselves or their own families.

Give your child the opportunity to get creative in the kitchen with these two fun, easy and nutritious summer lunch recipes that they can make by themselves – or with a little help.

Chicken Caesar Salad Kebabs

Makes 6 skewers

Everything is more fun on a stick! This isn’t your typical salad lunch since all of the components are separate and you can choose to include what you like. Serve the kebabs with the easy, creamy home-made dressing for dipping and you have a seriously tasty lunch.

Get ready!

Grab a liquid measuring cup, a small bowl, a whisk or fork, a knife and cutting board, six small wooden skewers or paper lollipop sticks and measuring spoons.

Get set!

¼ cup (60ml) mayonnaise or plain greek yogurt;

2 tbsp (30ml) extra virgin olive oil;

1 tbsp (15ml) red wine vinegar or lemon juice;

½ tsp garlic powder;

½ tsp Dijon mustard;

½ tsp Worcestershire sauce;

2 tbsp (13g) grated Parmesan cheese;

Pinch of ground black pepper;

4 Romaine lettuce leaves;

2 slices focaccia bread or any bread;

170–226g cooked chicken breast (such as leftover cooked chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken);

8 cherry or grape tomatoes.

Go!

First, make the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Parmesan cheese and pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use or pack in small containers.

Cut the lettuce, bread and chicken into bite-sized pieces or cubes. Cut the tomatoes in half. Place all of these ingredients onto six small skewers in any order you like.

Eat right away or pack the skewers into containers with some dressing on the side for dipping and store in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.

Mix it up!

Create different sandwich kebab combinations. Try hard-boiled egg, cheese cubes, rolled ham or turkey, bacon, cucumber chunks and different kinds of bread.

One Pot Mac and Cheese with Trees

Makes 4 servings

Are you obsessed with creamy, cheesy pasta? Me too! Ditch the box because you won’t believe how easy this mac is to make from scratch. You cook both the pasta and the sauce at the same time and in the same pot - it’s like a magic trick! If you don’t love broccoli, feel free to leave it out or stir in some frozen peas when you add the cheese at the end of the recipe. American cheese makes the sauce extra creamy but if you don’t have any, you can replace it with 1 more cup (113g) of shredded Cheddar.

Get ready!

Grab a large liquid measuring cup, a large pot, a wooden spoon and dry measuring cups and spoons.

Get set!

2 cups (480ml) whole or semi-skimmed milk;

1 cup (240ml) water;

½ tsp kosher salt;

2 cups (128g) elbow macaroni or small shell pasta;

2 cups (182g) frozen broccoli florets;

1 cup (113g) shredded Cheddar cheese;

3 slices American cheese, ripped into pieces.

Go!

In a large pot, add the milk, water and salt and place the pot over medium heat. Once the pot starts to bubble, stir in the pasta and turn the heat down to medium-low. Cook the pasta for five minutes, stirring often and making sure the pot doesn’t boil over. If the liquid starts to bubble up close to the top of the pot, turn the heat down more and keep stirring.

After five minutes, stir in the broccoli and cook for five minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Turn off the heat and add the Cheddar cheese and American cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Serve!

Chef’s tip. If using fresh broccoli for this recipe, use a small paring knife to cut small florets off the larger head of broccoli. You want all the florets to be roughly the same size so they cook in the same amount of time. Always supervise kids when using knives in the kitchen.

These delightful recipes are just two of many featured in the new book Kid Kitchen by Heather Staller, a trained culinary professional and parent of two. Reprinted with the permission of Page Street Publishing Co. 2023. Photos: Michelle Boule.

What the new childcare proposals mean for you

By Anna Letouze

There was good news for parents in this year’s Spring Budget when it was announced that the government will be extending funded childcare. This funding extension will mean that by September 2025 working parents of children over nine months and up to five years will be entitled to thirty hours free childcare per week.

As any working parent knows, paying for childcare before the existing funding for three-year-olds kicks in can be financially crippling. That the government acknowledges this struggle is a big step forward for families.

This policy has the power to help more parents back to work and improve the quality of family life with increased income. However, it’s important to acknowledge that when you look more closely at the policy, there is a risk that it could potentially exacerbate existing issues in the childcare system.

Unfortunately, the childcare system has not received full government funding to support the ‘free’ childcare places for children ages 2 to 4 that it introduced some years ago. In response, nurseries have had no option but to increase fees to meet the shortfall, resulting in the cost of childcare increasing for many parents.

Simultaneously, the running costs for childcare providers have skyrocketed and they have been closing en masse; over five thousand in the past year alone.

Again, funding for the government’s ambitious new plans for children ages 1 and 2 is estimated by the CBI to be half of what it will cost to implement, which will likely result in more closures, more competition and higher fees. Currently, the maths just doesn’t add up.

From April 2024, all 2-year-olds will be eligible for fifteen hours of free childcare. From 2025, children aged nine months and above will be eligible for thirty free hours.

The reason for the delay is that the dwindling number of providers couldn’t cope with a sudden increase in demand. Even with the longer lead time, many providers still won’t be

able to afford to offer the required places. This may leave some parents in the same situation of not being able to access their entitlement.

If your child is going to be eligible for free hours under the proposed changes, get ahead now and check with your local providers to ask whether they are going to be offering free hours for 2-year-olds. If they are, you may need to put your child on a waiting list because, as things stand, there may be a lot of competition for places.

In the meantime, there are other things you can do to lighten the load. First, make sure you’re claiming all the benefits you’re eligible for. If you are a working parent and not currently claiming financial support, start with the government’s online benefits calculator at www.gov.uk.

It’s also worth researching any other sources of support you may be able to access. The Cost of Living Support on the Working Families website (www.workingfamilies.org.uk) is a good start point.

You could also consider requesting flexible working. Everyone has the right to make a request once in a role for twenty-six weeks.

Currently employers are not obliged to consider it, so prepare the groundwork to put forward a strong case. Head to the Working Families website for advice and free resources on the best way to make a request.

Anna Letouze writes on behalf of Working Families (www.workingfamilies.org.uk), the UK’s national charity for working parents and carers.

Flexible Working Bill

Flex is becoming an everyday part of our working lives and the upcoming Employment Relations (Flexible Working) Bill will facilitate flex for many more parents and carers who need it.

If it is passed later this year, the bill will make requesting flexible working a right from day one, permit two requests a year, reduce the processing time, remove the requirement to explain how a proposed arrangement will work and require a consultation between employee and employer should the request be rejected.

Find your flex

Flex comes in all shapes and sizes. Hybrid or remote working, reduced or compressed hours, changing start and finish times, flexitime, job share; the list goes on.

If we start thinking of roles as comprising different tasks there is often an element of flexibility in when and how we can complete those tasks.

There’s no one way to work flexibly; instead, it is best achieved with a solution that is tailored both to your needs and the needs of your employer.

Explore top UK family beaches

By Andrew Campbell

Pack the buckets, spades and picnic gear and head to one of these gorgeous beaches for an old-fashioned family day out. Each of the beaches in our list received a 2022 Blue Flag Award, international recognition of excellent water quality and safety and have seasonal lifeguard services alongside parking, toilets and food outlets.

Woolacombe, North Devon

The three mile sandy beach is popular with families looking for a traditional seaside experience. There’s a surf school, kayaking, kitesurfing and walking trails. Rockpools, burrows, a fun theme park, ice-cream kiosks, eateries and public toilets are nearby. Three large car parks offer space for three thousand cars.

A Victorian seaside resort with an iconic pier and a mix of sand and shingle, the town maintains much of its original charm. Popular activities include building sandcastles, swimming, water sports and rock pooling at low tide. Beach facilities include toilets, shops, food stands and a cliff top car park with beach access.

Cromer, Norfolk Scarborough North Bay, Yorkshire

Despite its popularity, this quintessential British seaside resort has retained much of its charm. The North Bay beach is quieter than neighbouring South Bay. The long, sandy beach is backed by sea defences, an esplanade, hills and cliffs. Brightly coloured beach huts are available to hire with crazy golf, surfing and toilets on offer. Parking is a short walk from the beach.

Burntisland Beach, Fife

Southwold, Suffolk

With its colourful beach huts, pier, lighthouse, model boating pond, shingle beach and beach groynes, Southwold offers plenty of old-fashioned seaside charm. The recently refurbished pier has loads of attractions and amenities including toilets. The beach is a quick walk to the town centre and a short promenade to the harbour area. A large car park is nearby.

Llangrannog Beach, Wales

A family-friendly ‘village beach,’ this sheltered sandy bay offers a great selection of traditional pub food, cafes or homemade ice cream at the beach cafe. As well as being ideal for all the usual seaside activities, the beach is popular for water sports, including surfing and for viewing dolphins out at sea. Parking and ‘park and ride’ available and toilets in the village.

St Ives, Cornwall

St Ives boasts six sandy beaches close to its bustling centre but Porthmeor is arguably the premier for older children who can enjoy the waves, alongside a beachside cafe and toilets. For younger children, Porthgwidden offers a sheltered sun trap with calmer waters, cafe and toilets but has no lifeguard service. Limited parking is available for both. Consider parking in St Erth and taking the short and spectacular train ride to St Ives.

Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire

A traditional seaside holiday resort with long, firm, flat golden sand beaches and donkey rides, funfair, paddle boating, crazy golf, bicycle hire and more. Events are held regularly on the beach, including sandcastle contests, fireworks, bike racing and illuminations switch-on. The promenade has cafés, toilets and beach supplies. Car park runs parallel to the beach.

The stretch of sand and rock beach overlooking the Firth of Forth has loads to appeal to families. When you tire of sandcastle building, there are rockpools to explore; and a short stroll away, the Seaside Park has crazy golf, bouncy castle and an annual summer fairground. Amenities include toilets and picnic tables, with parking for five hundred cars.

Are we there yet?

By Tanith Carey

Four of the most dreaded words for parents in the English language are: ‘Are we there yet?’

Recent research has found that children will ask this question just over half an hour into a car journey and repeat it four times during the average two hour car trip.

However, when you look at long car journeys from a child’s point of view, should we really be surprised?

For one thing, for young children, hours and minutes have little concrete meaning until they reach about age 7. After that it will still take many more years for kids to develop their impulse control and ability to wait.

You can help your kids understand the length of the journey with more solid physical markers, such as: ‘We’ll be there after we have our next snack,’ or ‘When the fields turn into a town again.’ Before you set off, look out for places to stop - parks, service stations or playgrounds along the way. Build in short exercise breaks at these places to mark your progress in stages.

Journeys will also pass more quickly if we reframe how we view them. Rather than an ordeal to be endured, see them as a chance to spend uninterrupted time with the children where the journey is part of the fun.

Liven things up by downloading a ready-made picture car bingo game, so kids can cross off a square every time they see something like a police car, a bridge or a tractor.

Asking your child what they would like to bring with them to help the time pass will help them feel more in control; suggest they put together their ‘journey kit’ in a bag to hang on the back of your seat.

It helps to also have a few novelties that you can produce at different stages of the journey too.

For younger kids try window wax crayons and stickers they can use to decorate the windows. For older ones, be ready with a pair of binoculars or a compass so they can track your progress and appreciate what they are seeing. By appreciating where child is at developmentally, you can make journeys more pleasant for the whole family.

Tanith Carey is co-author, with Dr Angharad Rudkin, of What’s My Child Thinking: Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents. The book includes many topics including the best ways to communicate with children. Published by DK books and available from www.bookshop.org

Top tips for travelling with kids

Take off shoes. If you expect your kids will want to expend some energy kicking the back of your seat, take off their shoes! You won’t feel it as much and it won’t be as satisfying for them.

Head off tantrums over lost toys. Pack a pair of kitchen tongs to retrieve the fiddly toys that kids tend to drop down the sides of seats. And try not to take too many fiddly things, like Lego people and Polly Pockets.

Pack a towel for each child. It can be used as a blanket, a mop for any spills or on toddlers’ laps to help toys stay put.

You can also tuck one end into the window and hang it as a curtain to keep out the sun. If children get hot and sweaty, moisten the towel with water to help keep them cool.

Pack a potty. If you are still toilet training, bring a potty. Line it with a nappy for easy disposal of the mess.

Fun things for kids to do this summer

By Claire Winter

The long school holidays are here, the weather has perked up (hopefully) and there’s plenty of fun to be had! Dip into Families’ twenty ideas to keep your kids busy all summer –and the good news is a lot of them are absolutely free!

Explore a local forest or woodland with family or friends. Pack a delicious picnic to enjoy amidst the scenic beauty and organise a scavenger hunt to make the experience even more exciting.

Visit a different playground or splash park to keep cool on hotter days. It’s fun to venture further afield to add excitement and adventure to your child’s summer experience.

Put on a show or concert. Think Britain’s Got Talent and The Voice combined; it’s a fantastic way to showcase singing or dancing and create lasting memories, particularly if you video their acts.

Become an extra pocket money generator. Get the kids to put their skills to use by offering to do chores for neighbours, friends and family.

Host a mini-Olympics. Come up with some quirky games and competitions that will get everyone’s blood pumping and having a blast while doing it.

Create a newspaper or magazine. Encourage your child’s writing skills – get them to come up with exciting articles, interesting stories and plenty of pictures. Your child can also practise their digital skills by using a computer or tablet.

Get fit. Be a #fitfam and promote a healthy lifestyle to your kids by going on a run or a jog together. You’ll be staying active and you’ll be setting a great example for your children.

Sign up to a summer camp or workshop. Encourage your child to explore their passions and develop new skills. Not only will they have fun and make new friends, they’ll also gain valuable experience and knowledge that will benefit them in the future.

Learn to type. No more pecking like a T-Rex; get the kids to level up their keyboard game. With online typing lessons or software, they can improve their typing skills and impress everyone with their lightningfast fingers.

Explore the great outdoors and complete the National Trust’s 50 things to do before you’re 11¾. From building a den to climbing a tree, this list is packed with exciting activities that will challenge and inspire the whole family. Time to start ticking!

Be in charge for the day. Invite the children to plan an epic day out for your family. Get them to put on their planning hats and see what they come up withthe wackier the better.

Get creative in the kitchen and get the kids to make a delicious meal or snack. Be inspired by cuisines from other countries or take inspiration from a favourite TikTok chef or food influencer.

Be kind. Teach your kids the value of kindness by getting them to volunteer to hang out with some of the older generation or people in need in your community. They can chat, play games or even help with some household chores.

Be screen-free. Are you tired of the constant screen time battles with your kids? Challenge the whole family to disconnect and enjoy a device-free day! Spend time outdoors and try new activities. It’s a great way

to recharge and create lasting memories together.

Have a water fight. Nothing beats an old-fashioned water fight with friends or family. Whether you use water balloons, water pistols or old washing up bottles, it’s a great way to beat the heat and have lots of fun at the same time.

Visit a pick-your-own fruit farm. Yes kids, fruit grows on bushes and trees! Picking your own can be a relaxing and rewarding experience. Many berries freeze well so you can stock up for puddings and breakfast toppers if your children’s enthusiasm means you have too much for today’s teatime.

Try wild swimming. Make a splash in a river, lake or the sea. Prioritise safety by choosing a safe and appropriate location, checking water conditions and always swim with a buddy or under adult supervision.

Visit a working farm. Farm life can be a fabulous adventure for younger children. Meet cute animals, learn how to milk a cow and help with chores like collecting eggs or feeding the pigs.

Get arty. Be inspired by Banksy and do some graffiti art with your kids or try other art projects like collages or mosaics. It is a great way to bond and unleash your inner artist!

Have fun on a budget

Summer is the perfect season to enjoy the great outdoors.

However, it can be a challenge to find fun and affordable activities. Luckily, there are some options that won’t break the bank.

Check out local summer events, starting with our What’s On pages.

There are often free or low cost events held by local councils that can be both informative and entertaining, plus free-to-enter festivals and museums.

Embrace the digital world

Have a garden campout

Pitch a tent in your garden and plan to spend the night under the stars with lots of pillows, story books, torches and snacks. Kids will love the sense of freedom, you’ll save money and it’s not far to ‘go home’ if they change their minds!

Have a day at the beach

Kids can enjoy building sandcastles, paddling in the sea and exploring rock pools. Getting there can be cheaper with a railcard or a coach. You can make it all part of the adventure.

Are you looking for some fun and interactive ways to keep your kids entertained while also embracing the digital world? There are lots of options to choose from; just remember to set a timer and stick to it.

For starters, look for coding games or apps that can teach the basics of programming. Or try language learning. Duolingo (www.duolingo.com) has launched two new apps for children; Duolingo ABC for learning to read and Duolingo Kids which teaches Spanish, French and English. Both are free.

Another engaging activity for kids is creating their own videos. With the rise of YouTube and social media, they can use their creativity to make their own videos and share them with friends. By supervising where they post their videos, this activity can also be a lesson in online safety.

Finally, for those who love gaming, there are plenty of cool options. From Minecraft to Roblox, these games encourage kids to use their imaginations in creating their own worlds and adventures. Plus they boost their problem-solving skills.

10:00amOPENDAILY 25/26except-5:30pm december

Get smarter

One great educational activity for the summer is to start a mini garden. Kids can learn about the science of plants and how to care for them while getting their hands dirty in the process. They can plant vegetables, herbs or flowers and watch them grow throughout the summer.

Plan a day out to a local museum or science park. Many of these venues offer summer activities specifically for kids, where they can learn about history, science and art. These programmes often include hands-on activities and experiments that make learning fun and engaging.

Another cost-free activity is to visit your local library. Many branches have free activity sessions for young children, including this year’s rewards-packed Summer Reading Challenge (www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk).

Plan a fun rainy-day quiz to test their powers of observation. For example: how many windows do we have in our home, what is next door’s dog called, which duvet is on your bed this week, what day do the binmen come? Ask them to set a quiz for you as well!

BE AMAZED BY WILDLIFE THIS SUMMER!

Summer family fun in Hampshire

Pirates! Fact and Fiction at St Barbe Museum

Ahoy me hearties! Join St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery for a swashbuckling exhibition this summer to learn about pirates from across the globe.

This exciting family-friendly exhibition takes you on a journey through pirate history, film and literature. From the Cilician pirates of the Roman Mediterranean to the Golden Age pirates of the Caribbean. Meet Vikings, Barbary corsairs and Chinese pirates on the way and discover facts about their Ships and tactics.

Start your summer with a bang!

Get summer started with a bang – literally at Winchester Science Centre’s Fiesta.

Families will have their curiosity sparked both indoors and outdoors at Winchester Science Centre between Sat 8 July and Mon 4 September, including every day in the school holidays, as the science fun heads outside for the summer season.

As well as all the usual indoor excitement, like a brand new explosive live science show and the unforgettable Planetarium, families will be able to enjoy a whole host of activities outside all included with admission!

Head to the Music Makers tent to create an instrument inspired by nature before putting on a performance with it on the Star Mini Stage. Then settle in for a nature adventure in the Storytelling tent and discover the mysteries of science with the Curiosity Cupboard on the Wonderseekers mini stage.

www.winchestersciencecentre.org/whats-on/fiesta

Enjoy motorsport from the driver’s seat this summer

The Race Centre in Chandler’s Ford is an awesome experience for all the family and this summer, The Race Centre will be holding their popular School Holiday Specials - discounted for ‘drivers’ aged 8 to 17.

Drivers start with an entry-level car, learning the circuit and controls. You can then stick with that car, or move to something more challenging! All drivers are on track together competing to be the quickest. Lap times go into a leaderboard to make comparisons between friends super easy. Guardian adults can also join in at the discounted rate.

But that’s not all… The Race Centre also offers exclusive venue hire for junior birthday parties. Up to ten drivers competing head-to-head in a series of qualifying and race sessions, concluding with podium presentations and rounded off with time for pizza and cake.

Book online at www.theracecentre.co.uk

There’s lots to see and do including fun interactives and activity sheets for all ages. Try walking the plank or some fabulous costumes.

Open Mon to Sat 10am-4pm (Sun from 22 Jul to 3 Sep). To find out more visit www.stbarbe-museum.org.uk

Visit The New Forest & Hampshire County Show

The New Forest & Hampshire County Show takes place on 25, 26 & 27 July at The Showground, Brockenhurst. Throughout the event there will be interactive activities for visitors to enjoy alongside the wonderful variety of show sections and attractions. The event has activities for all the family including: a dog show, crafting, Forest school activities, a fun kitchen, shopping and more. For more info visit www.newforestshow.co.uk

Summer at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

Famous for its arboretum and gardens, the magnificent 180acre Sir Harold Hillier Gardens are open all year, offering beauty throughout the seasons.

Outstanding features include: the iconic 250m long double summer border, pond, autumn colour and one of the largest Winter Gardens in Europe. With acres of gardens and woodland to explore, the Gardens are a fantastic family day out. Find the woodland tree house, jump across the wobbly bridge, weave through the bamboo tunnels, play on the super snake swing and even make music in the new Sound Garden! A wide range of family activities and trails run throughout the year and school holidays.

There is something different to see every day, whether it is the changing season, a new exhibition, trail or workshop there are always things to do for the whole family. There’s FREE parking, a Garden Centre, café, gift shop and accessible pathways. Find out more at www.hants.gov.uk/hilliergardens

Summer family fun in Hampshire

New forest summer learning activities for the holidays

Stuck for things to do with your kids this summer? Don’t stress, The New Forest Centre has you covered! Come and join in with the fun activities on offer.

With trails, activity sheets, competitions, craft events and children’s workshops during school holidays, there’s lots for the whole family to enjoy when you visit The New Forest Heritage Centre. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about the New Forest, its people, traditions and unique history, plus you get to take home your creations.

Open daily from 10am to 4pm, entry to the museum is free and they have a lovely café and gift shop where you can choose to extend your visit. Whether you are a local resident or holidaying in the New Forest, there’s always lots to discover about this unique part of southern England.

Find out more at www.newforestheritage.org.uk

Fit more into the summer on the Isle of Wight

With just a one hour sail from Southampton, your Isle of Wight adventure begins as soon as you board the Red Funnel ferry. Relax with refreshments in the lounge while you create your jam-packed Island itinerary, or why not head to the sun deck for i-spy and ice creams.

Whether you’re sailing over for a day or heading over to stay, there is so much to see and do. Discover animal sanctuaries, a steam train, sky nets, go-karting, an aqua park, fossil hunting, horse riding, sandy beaches, cycling, a seaside palace, water sports, landmarks and more! And with nowhere on the Island being more than a 40-minute drive apart, you can really make the most of every precious hour and fit even more into your holiday.

Travel with a car and up to 7 people with Red Funnel and bring everything you need for the perfect holiday… you can even bring the dog with a dedicated pet lounge onboard.

Book your Island adventure at www.redfunnel.co.uk

Go wild at New Forest Wildlife Park this summer

Looking for a family day out that’s packed with adventure and fun? Visit the New Forest Wildlife Park, it is the perfect local attraction to experience the wild up-close and personal.

The family-run wildlife and conservation park is home to over 260 animals from 40 species. Join the friendly keepers for their regular feeding sessions throughout the day or one of the daily talks to find out more about the fascinating animals. From red deer and wallabies to giant otters, wolves, bison and owls, there’s so much to discover at New Forest Wildlife Park.

And it’s not just about the animals - children will love exploring the extensive playgrounds, play equipment and sandpit while parents can relax in the beautiful park surroundings.

Don’t miss out on the chance to visit during the school holidays. Open daily from 10am-5.30pm.

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

An action-packed summer at Fort Nelson

Fire your child’s imagination this summer with barrelloads of summer fun activities at Fort Nelson.

Do you have what it takes to join the Fort Nelson garrison as a soldier? There’s only one way to find out in Fit for the Fort on any weekend throughout the summer (22 Jul to 28 Aug) and be put through your paces in lots of fun activities.

Under the watchful eye of expert instructors, young recruits will be given the opportunity to learn the skills a soldier would be expected to have to be considered ‘Fit for the Fort’. Each weekend will focus on a different period in history and will encompass a wide variety of activities and the chance to learn some special skills, all pitched at just the right level for younger visitors. Plus, the ever-popular Assault Course is back, packed with obstacles, challenges and plenty of adventures (Mon 24 Jul to Sun 3 Sep).

Visit www.royalarmouries.org to find out more.

What's On

All listings correct at the time of going to print.

To promote your local event in the next issue, email: editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk. Don’t forget to sign up for our digital magazine for more interactive content at familiesmagazine.co.uk/go

DIARY DATES

Throughout Jul & Aug ‘50 Things’ Activities

The National Trust

Why not try some of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges? From rolling down a hill to making friends with a bug, there’s something for every young explorer to do. Take part at Hinton Ampner, Mottisfont or The Vyne.

Throughout Jul & Aug

ZOG Trail

Alice Holt Forest, GU10 4LS

www.forestryengland.uk/aliceholt-forest

Get ready to join Zog™ on his latest forest adventure to collect golden stars as your little dragons learn how they help care for the forest and how the forests can care for them. Plus, explore trails and discover different play areas.

Throughout Jul & Aug Treasure Trails in Hampshire

Various locations

www.treasuretrails.co.uk

A self-guided spy mission walking trail or treasure hunt inspired walk. The trails are 2 to 2.5 miles and takes approximately two hours to complete at your own pace. Learn more about where you live or explore somewhere new. Print a trail map at home or buy online.

Ages 6+.

Until 27 Aug

Farm Fest – Summer

Celebration

Winchester City Mill, SO23 0EJ www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Celebrate the lead up to harvest at Winchester City Mill and find out about harvest time in England through the centuries. You can be crowned King of the Harvest too - sit on the Mill’s beautifully decorated harvest throne for a fab photo opportunity.

Until 9 Sep Pirates! Fact and Fiction

St Barbe Museum & Art Gallery, Lymington, SO41 9BH www.stbarbe-museum.org.uk

Ahoy me hearties! Enjoy a swash buckling family-friendly exhibition to learn about pirates from across the globe and discover facts about their ships and tactics. Family tickets £12. Mon-Sat 10am-4pm.

Until 30 Oct 40th Anniversary Trail

Paultons Theme Park Ower, SO51 6AL

www.paultonspark.co.uk

To celebrate Paultons 40th anniversary they have placed 11 owl sculptures around the park for you to discover. Each owl is colourfully decorated to reflect a different area of the Park. See if you can spot all 11 owls and tick off each one on the park map as you find them! From £41.75 when booked in advance.

HOLIDAY CLUBS & WORKSHOPS

Mon 17 to Thu 24 Aug

Delgado Tennis Camps

St Swithun’s School, Winchester, SO21 1HA

www.delgadotennis.co.uk

Holiday camps run all year round and offer flexibility with daily (half day/full day) or weekly bookings. Groups are arranged according to age and ability. Camps run MonThu. Various dates available.

Mon 24 to Fri 28 Jul

Wizard of Oz

Holy Trinity Parish Church, Winchester, SO23 8DG www.perform.org.uk/wizard

There’s no place like Perform this summer. Perform are off to see the wizard this July, as they sing and dance their way down the yellow brick road in their Wizard of Oz holiday courses. With colourful costumes, uplifting songs and dazzling dancing, your child will have the best fun of the summer as they bring this story to life. Book online. Ages 4-10. 10am-3pm daily.

Mon 24, 31 & Tue 25 Jul & Mon 7, 14, 21 & Tue 1, 8, 15, 21 Aug

Southampton Culture Club for Kids

SeaCity Museum, Southampton, SO14 7FY

www.seacitymuseum.co.uk

A fun event for ages 6-12 with different themes every session including: sea creatures, past portraits, animal safari, hands-on history, Egyptian mummies and more. 9am-4pm (drop off from 8.45am) £35 per day, or £60 per week. Runs Mon and Tues in July and August.

Throughout July & August Youth Options Woodland Club

Itchen Valley Country Park, Southampton SO30 3HQ www.youthoptions.org.uk/ childcare/holiday-clubs

Their Ofsted registered Forest School themed holiday club gives children aged 4-11 the opportunity to spend the day outside exploring and enjoying the natural world. Sessions run from 8.30am–4pm, Mon to Frid. £32.50 per day (5% sibling discount and weekly discounts available).

Wed 5 & Fri 21 Jul

The Wind in the Willows

Hinton Ampner, Nr Alresford SO24 0LA

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hintonampner

Join Mole, Ratty and Badger as they set out on a series of mad-cap adventures that take them from the Wild Wood to the open road as they seek to rescue their reckless friend Toad. 6.30pm, adults £16, children £11, family £46. Pre-book. All ages

Sat 8 & Sun 9 Jul

Bee and Honey Weekend

Manor Farm Country Park, Southampton SO31 1BH www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ countryparks/manorfarm

Learn all about the fascinating life of the honeybee, with honey tasting, games, crafts, demonstrations and special viewing hives, there is something for everyone. Normal admission.

Sat 8 Jul to Sun 3 Sep

Fiesta: Mini Outdoors Children’s Festival

Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ

www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Get the summer started with a bang – literally – with Fiesta, an exciting mini children’s festival of curiosity! Enjoy: a storytelling tent, Wonderseekers mini stage – Inspirers’ show and tell, Music Makers tent, Star mini stage –children’s performance mini stage, Free live science show, two floors of exciting hands-on exhibits, huge demos in Science Live, Nature adventures in Bio:Space and more. On weekends and school holidays.

Sat 8 Jul to Sun 1 Oct

Boom, Bang, Fizz – The Science of Fireworks

Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ

www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Join WSC in a brand new free live show to discover the science behind the ooh, aah and wows of a firework display. Fun experiments and dazzling demos will bring this

explosive topic to life in an exciting 20-minute live show.

Thu 13 to Sun 16 Jul

The Tiger Who Came to Tea

MAST Mayflower Studios

Southampton SO14 7DU

www.mayflowerstudios.org.uk

Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos. Ages 3+.

From Sat 15 Jul

Ocean at the End of the Lane Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery, PO1 2LJ portsmouthmuseum.co.uk

Find out more about how we use and change our coastline and the affect this has on our environment and wildlife. Tue-Sun 10am-5pm. FREE.

Sat 15 July to Sun 3 Sep

Tree-mendous Tree Trail Hinton Ampner, Nr Alresford SO24 0LA

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Take up the challenge of our Treemendous Adventure trail to become a ‘Hinton dendrologist’. Track down tree-themed activities including games and design challenges on this multi-sensory trail through the gardens, leading to a prize. Don’t forget to pop into the kitchen garden to say hello to the resident scarecrow who looks after the garden produce. Trail £2.

Family fun at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

Sat 15 to Sun 16 Jul

Stansted Summer Festival

Stansted House, Rowlands Castle, PO9 6Dx, stanstedpark.co.uk

A highly popular weekend of fun, activities and entertainment.

Sat 22 to Mon 24 Jul

Dragons and Mythical Beasts

Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB

www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Calling all brave heroes! Enter into a magical world of myths and legends in this fantastical new show for all the family. Unveil a myriad of dark secrets and come face to face with some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth.

Sat 22 Jul to Mon 28 Aug

Perform in the Park Coram’s Fields WC1N 1DN www.performinthepark.uk

A magical festival of children’s theatre in the heart of London. Four fantastic musicals for children aged 2-14 plus evening events for teens. Set in a pop-up tent in Coram’s Fields, families can also enjoy the park with wide lawns and wonderful play areas. Tickets start at £14.50. Pre-book online.

Sat 22 to Mon 28 Aug

Fit for the Fort (Weekends)

Fort Nelson, Fareham PO17 6AN www.royalarmouries.org/event/ fit-for-the-fort

Do you have what it takes to join the Fort Nelson garrison as a soldier? There’s only one way to find out! Come up to the Fort on any weekend throughout the summer holidays and be put through your paces in lots of fun activities. Ages 3+.

Sat 22 Jul to Sun 3 Sep

Summer Holiday Trail Mottisfont, Romsey SO51 0LP www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Adventure around the grounds as you take part in challenges and games inspired by the imagination of the Ahlbergs. Help the Jolly Postman deliver his letters and take part in energetic activities inspired by Happy Families characters. A trail map will direct you to different areas of the gardens, which are themed to different books. Normal admission + £3 per trail.

Sat 22 Jul to Sun 3 Sep

Summer Fun at Milestones

Milestones Museum, Basingstoke RG22 6PG

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Come and enjoy fun for all the family on the immersive streets of Milestones! Meet the people of the past as you roam our full-sized streets and walk-in stores from eras gone by. Enjoy a new exhibition located at the back of the museum and learn all about domestic living through the years. Pick up a Living History Trail during your visit and win a prize! Trail extra £3.

Sat 22 Jul to Sun 5 Nov

Adventures with the Ahlbergs at Mottisfont Mottisfont, Romsey SO51 0LP www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Enjoy a family-friendly exhibition exploring the much-loved children’s books created by Allan and Janet Ahlberg, featuring original artwork from The Jolly Postman, Happy Families and more. Outside, outdoor activity trails in summer and autumn introduce characters from the books, with fun games and challenges to complete.

Sun 23 Jul

King Charles Returns! Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Meet King Charles I as he returns to Winchester for one day. Exploring the Westgate, Winchester High Street and Winchester City Museum, learn more about the time King Charles spent in Winchester. Westgate 11am-12pm, High Street 12.30-1pm, City Museum 1.30-4pm.

Mon 24 & Tue 25 Jul

Art for All: Clay Busts Southampton City Art Gallery SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Explore different clay techniques, proportions of the human head and how to express the characteristics which make us who we are. 10am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. £8. Ages 5+.

Mon 24 Jul to Sun 3 Sep

Junior Assault Course

Fort Nelson, Fareham PO17 6AN royalarmouries.org

The ever-popular assault course is back, packed with obstacles, challenges and adventures. Ages 3-14. £3.50. No need to book.

Mon 24 Jul & Mon 7 & 21 Aug

Make a Giant Eco Bubble Wand The Arc, Winchester SO23 8SB www.hampshireculture.org.uk

A relaxing and absorbing pastime, create an eco-friendly toy at The Arc this summer. We will start by looking at the science of what makes a great bubble, create bubble mixture and a wand to take home. £8. Ages 5+. Pre-book.

Mon 24 Jul to Sun 3 Sep

Alderman Jacob’s Time Quest

Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Join Alderman Jacob on his Quest through time, explore Winchester City Museum, the Westgate Museum and streets of Winchester to complete the Quest. £1 per trail + standard charge. Ages 4+.

Mon 24 Jul to Sun 3 Sep

Games Galore

Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Come along to City Museum for pop-up games and enjoy activities around the Museum. Included in standard admission. All ages.

Tue 25 Jul & Tue 8 Aug

Pond Dipping

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA

www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens

What is lurking in our ponds? Visit Sir Harold Hillier Gardens for pond dipping and see what is living in the Education Garden ponds. Can you find diving beetles, nimble pond skaters and slimy snails? All equipment is provided. £3 per child.

Tue 25 Jul

Milkshake Live!

Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB

www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Join Paddington, Daisy & Ollie, Milo, Noddy, Pip and Posy, Blue’s Clues & You! and of course Milkshake! Monkey for an unforgettable family time at Milkshake Monkey’s Musical! 12pm, 3pm.

Tue 25, Wed 26 & Thu 27 Jul

The New Forest Show

The Showground, Brockenhurst

SO42 7QH

www.newforestshow.co.uk

With so much to see and do across the showground, you can enjoy: a local produce market, shopping, main ring attractions, a family fun area, a sheep show and much more. Book your tickets online.

Wed 26 Jul

Hidden Hoards

SeaCity Museum, Southampton, SO14 7FY

www.seacitymuseum.co.uk

Discover the fascinating things that have been found under the ground in Hampshire and create your own treasures with arts and crafts. 10.30am, 1pm. £8. Ages 6+.

Wed 26 Jul

Off With Their Heads!

Tudor House & Garden, Southampton, SO14 2AD

www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Discover the horrible histories of the Tudors in this fun-filled activity session. Handle artefacts, play games and create your very own Tudor king or queen clay head to take home with you! 10.30am, 1pm. £8 per child. Ages 6+.

Wed 26, Thu 27 Jul

Art for All: Fantasy Film Summer

Sun Catchers

Southampton City Art Gallery, SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Using fantasy film (a kind of acrylic resin) you will make some stunning summer sun catchers with a stained-glass effect. 10am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. £8. Ages 7+.

Thu 27 Jul & Thu 10, 17, 24 & 31 Aug

Garden Beasts and Where to Find Them

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA

www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens

Hike out to explore the Gardens with the Education team. What minibeasts can you find? 10.30am, 11.30am 1pm, 2pm & 3pm. Prebook. £6 per session. Ages 3+.

Fri 28 Jul

Sarah & Duck’s Big Top Birthday Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB

www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Join Sarah and her best friend Duck as they plan the ultimate circus soiree to help Scarf Lady celebrate her birthday. Ages 3+.

Fri 28 Jul to Fri 25 Aug

Race Pro-Paper Aeroplanes

The Arc, Winchester SO23 8SB www.hampshireculture.org.uk

If you understand the science behind flying, you can make a paper aeroplane go a long way. And once you’ve made your superplane, you can test and refine it with everyone in the group. Take the skill home and practice! £8. Ages 7+. Pre-Book.

Mon 31 Jul & Tue 1 Aug

Art for All: Wire Faces

Southampton City Art Gallery SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Create a sculpture of a face that is familiar to you out of wire. 10am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. Ages 7+.

AUGUST

Wed 2 Aug

Tue 1 Aug

Bug Butterfly Hunt

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA

www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens

Come along for this family friendly walk to explore the Gardens with the Education team. What butterflies can you spot? 10.30am, 11.30am 1pm, 2pm & 3pm. £6 plus normal admission. Ages 3+.

Tue 1 Aug

Mythical Creatures- Poly Printing New Forest Heritage Centre, Lyndhurst , SO43 7NY www.ticketsource.co.uk/newforest-heritage-centre Children’s workshop. Sessions run at 11am-12pm & 2-3pm. £3.50 per child. Ages 3-11.

Wed 2 Aug

Sir Bevois and the Dragon SeaCity Museum, Southampton SO14 7FY

www.seacitymuseum.co.uk

Hear about Sir Bevois’ legendary battles with Giants and Dragons and create your own dragon to take home! 10.30am, 12pm, 2pm. £6.50. Ages 5+.

Wed 2 Aug

Mythical Creatures- Clay New Forest Heritage Centre, Lyndhurst , SO43 7NY www.ticketsource.co.uk/newforest-heritage-centre Craft workshop for ages 3-11. 11am-12pm & 2-3pm. £3.50 per child.

Miniature Magic Tudor House & Garden, Southampton, SO14 2AD

www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Create your own hidden fairy garden, using all kinds of crafty bits and pieces! 10.15am, 12.45pm. £8.50. Ages 6+.

Thu 3 Aug

Discover Titanic Family Workshop

SeaCity Museum, Southampton SO14 7FY

www.seacitymuseum.co.uk

Try your hand at Morse Code, handle objects from ocean liners, sink the Titanic and see how an iceberg floats! 10.30am, 12pm or 2pm. £6.50 per child. Ages 6+.

Mon 7 & Tue 8 Aug

Art for All: Tie Dye Beach Bags Southampton City Art Gallery SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Work with different colours and techniques to create a stylish summer tote bag! 10am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. £9. Ages 4+.

Tue 8 Aug

Theatre: Ugly Duckling

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery, GU32 3HX

www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

Filled with live music, puppetry and colourful characters, bring the whole family and friends to enjoy this wonderful open-air, family musical! Adults £5, children £12, family of 4 £48. 2pm.

Tue 8 & Wed 9 Aug

Decorating Fairy Doors

New Forest Heritage Centre, Lyndhurst , SO43 7NY

www.ticketsource.co.uk/newforest-heritage-centre

Children’s workshop for ages 3-11.. Sessions run at 11am-12pm & 2-3pm. £3.50 per child.

Tue 8 & Wed 9 Aug

Alice in Wonderland

Uppark House & Garden, Petersfield GU31 5QR nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark

In this fun new production you’ll join Alice as she explores Wonderland and meets fantastical characters. Follow the White Rabbit, have tea with the Mad Hatter, and watch out for the dreaded Queen of Hearts! Book online.

Wed 9 Aug

Art For All: Summer Fireworks

Paintings

Southampton City Art Gallery SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Using loose acrylic paint, cardboard tubes and straws, create your own summer night firework display, with a sprinkling of glitter to finish it off! 10.30am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. £8. Ages 6+.

Fri 11 Aug

Live at the Park: Peter Pan Itchen Valley Country Park, Southampton, SO30 3HQ www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk/ events/live-at-the-park-peterpan-aug-2023

This summer, join Slapstick Picnic for a theatrical treat like no other as they whip up a three hander version of JM Barrie’s classic play Peter Pan. Let your imagination soar as we dish out this timeless tale of hapless pirates, feral children and a particularly punctual reptile. 3pm. Ages 8+.

Fri 11 Aug

Family Fun Day

Bursledon Windmill, Southampton SO31 8BG

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Come along and enjoy an outdoor fun day with a woodland trail, make-and-takes, create a picture and lots of fun games for everyone to join in with. Bring a picnic or enjoy refreshments in the café. £4 plus admission. Pre-booking required.

Sat 12 Aug

Coastal Wildlife Day

Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery, PO1 2LJ portsmouthmuseum.co.uk

Get wild about Portsmouth’s coastal environment. Family friendly activities and talks. Meet the local experts who help protect our Solent shore and find out how you can help. 11am-3:30pm. FREE.

Sat 12 to Sun 20 Aug

Day out with Thomas

The Watercress Line, SO24 0BL watercressline.co.uk/day-outwith-thomas

Peep, peep! Join Thomas & Friends for a day of family fun at The Watercress Line. Take a ride behind Thomas, meet some of your favourite characters, and join Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty for a trainload of excitement! More info and tickets online.

Mon 14 & Tue 15 Aug

Art for All: Print a Portrait Southampton City Art Gallery SO14 7LY www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Show your personality in a portrait and experiment with mono-printing techniques at this accessible and enjoyable workshop. 10am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. £8. Ages 5+.

Tue 15 Aug

Talk: The Hidden History of Harry Potter

Tudor House & Garden, Southampton, SO14 2AD

www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Join historian and Harry Potter geek Andy Skinner, unpicks some of those fascinating connections, including the importance of names, real-life figures who crop up in the Harry Potter stories and a foray into magical creatures and the places where they can be found! 10.30am. £6. Ages 8+.

Tue 15 Aug

Tour for All: Magical and Marvellous

Tudor House & Garden, Southampton, SO14 2AD

www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Explore Tudor House’s magical connections, from ‘witch marks’ to hidden secrets! Learn about the history of the house and also get a chance to delve into the dark and spooky cellars underneath the house! 1pm. Ages 6+.

Tue 15 & Wed 15 Aug

Mythical Medals

New Forest Heritage Centre, Lyndhurst , SO43 7NY

www.ticketsource.co.uk/newforest-heritage-centre

Children’s workshop. Sessions run at 11am-12pm & 2-3pm £1 per medal, pay on the day, no booking necessary. Ages 3-11.

Wed 16 Aug

Great Fire of London!

Tudor House & Garden, Southampton, SO14 2AD www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Step back in time to 1666 for this fun history and craft workshop exploring the story of the Great Fire of London. Discover Samuel Pepys, handle real objects from the time. 10.30am, 1pm. £8 per child.

Ages 6+.

Wed 16 Aug

Meccano at the Museum

The Brickworks Museum, Swanwick, SO31 7HB www.thebrickworksmuseum.org Join The Brickworks Museum for an interactive day of Meccano! Invented in 1898, Meccano is an interactive building tool that can be used in an incredible number of exciting ways. Come and see what the Meccano fun-gineers have

created and have a go at creating your own Meccano models on interactive play table. 11am-4pm.

Fri 18 to Sun 20 Aug

Blacksmithing Weekend: Iron Age to Modern Age

Butser Ancient Farm, PO8 0BG butserancientfarm.co.uk

Discover blacksmithing through the ages! Join in for a weekend of metalworking in action and explore this craft from its invention right up to the modern era as Butser Ancient Farm is taken over by more than 50 blacksmiths! 10am-4pm.

Sun 20 Aug

Live at the Park: The Jabberwocky and other Nonsense Leigh Road Recreation Ground, Eastleigh, SO50 9FH www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

Calf 2 Cow present this hilarious new adaption of Lewis Carroll’s (Alice in Wonderland) famous poem The Jabberwocky. Join them as they tell the tale of our young hero from Pokeytin, armed with their vorpal sword, who braves the journey to take on the fierce Jabberwock, knock his head off and save the land! Huzzah! 2pm. Ages 5+.

Wed 23, Thu 24 & Fri 25 Aug

Hogwarts Art School: Fantastic Beasts …and How to Make Them!

Southampton City Art Gallery

SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery com

Create your own familiar and explore mythical creatures great and small in the spellbinding day. Craft a wand, spell books and potion ingredients or Explore the magical world through 2D and 3D crafts. Three different themes on each day. 10am. £28 per day or £70 for all three days. Ages 7-14.

Wed 23 Aug

WW2 Super Science

Tudor House & Garden, Southampton, SO14 2AD www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Join mad scientist Andy for a supercharged session of experiments and history based around the Second World War! Create egg parachutes, witness the power of a wartime invention known to deflect bombs and more. 10.30am, 1pm. £8. Ages 6+.

Thu 24 & Fri 25 Aug

Under the Sea: Wax Resist Watercolours

Southampton City Art Gallery SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Learn a new technique and create your own watery world! Use wax resist techniques to draw scenes beneath the waves and bring them

to life with watercolour paints. 10am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. £8 per child. Ages 5+.

Fri 25 Aug

Smashing Saxons

SeaCity Museum, Southampton SO14 7FY

www.seacitymuseum.co.uk

Discover incredible tales of Saxon Southampton in this craft and history family workshop. Handle real Saxon finds and create your very own necklace inspired by what you find! 10.30am, 1pm. £8. Ages 6+.

Fri 25 Aug

Teddy Bear Picnic

Bursledon Windmill, Southampton SO31 8BG

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Come and enjoy the annual Teddy Bear picnic, we have a teddy bear themed make-and-takes, storytelling, a woodland trail and face painting (additional charge). Bring along your own picnic and blankets and sit down on the lawn. £4 plus admission. Pre-book.

Sat 26 Aug

Family Music in the Gardens

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA

www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens

Come and enjoy the talented 75-piece orchestra and singers, Pops Incorporated UK. A brilliant family evening out with FREE children’s entertainment, circus skills and pond dipping, all set in the beautiful Gardens. Face painting will also be available at an extra charge. 6-9.30pm. Adult: £23, Child (2-16yrs) £13.

Sat 26 Aug

Ecstatic Explorers

Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Meet a real Georgian Sailor and find out more about adventures at sea during the 19th century, a journey of survival and discovery. All ages.

Sat 27 to Sun 28 Aug

Roman Re-enactment Weekend

Butser Ancient Farm, PO8 0BG butserancientfarm.co.uk

Discover Roman living history and combat re-enactments with the Butser IX Roman Legion. Find out what life would have been like in Roman Britain as you explore their open air site.

Tue 29 & Wed 30 Aug

Silhouette Sun Prints

Southampton City Art Gallery SO14 7LY www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Explore silhouettes and create a stunning sun print to take home with you. 10am, 12.30pm, 2.30pm. FREE (fully refundable £5 deposit required at point of booking as part of Creative Connections Project). Ages 5+.

Thu 31 Aug

Fairy Doors

Tudor House & Garden, Southampton, SO14 2AD

www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Join us to explore the beautiful Tudor House Garden and make some precious little fairy doors to take home and hide. 10.30am, 1pm. £8. Ages 5+.

Getting the most out of family festivals

By Andrew Campbell

With the UK embracing child-friendly festivals, there’s no reason you, as parents, can’t re-experience elements of those carefree weekends of great music and tasty food of your youth.

With kids in tow, a festival visit will obviously be different to your child-free visits and to make the most of the experience and avoid the potential pitfalls, preparation is key.

Here are Families’ top tips:

Firstly, choose a family-friendly festival. Look for those that offer family-friendly activities and facilities, such as designated family camping areas, children’s entertainment and areas where families can relax and unwind. Many are now booked up for this summer so plan early for next year.

Plan ahead. Before you go, research the festival’s schedule and plan which performances you want to see. Make sure to take into account your child’s interests and energy levels.

Prepare for the weather. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for every type of weather and for the entire family. There is nothing more miserable than spending a weekend sweating in a coat or shivering in a t-shirt. Pack raincoats, waterproof boots and warm clothing, as well as t-shirts, shorts, sunscreen and hats in case of sunny weather.

Take provisions. Most festivals allow you to bring your own food and drinks, so pack a cooler with plenty of snacks and drinks for the entire family. This will save you money and give you more control over what your children are eating. Burgers for breakfast, lunch and dinner may get boring even for your kids!

Bring ear protection. Festivals can be loud, so make sure to bring ear protection for your children. You can buy earplugs or earmuffs that are specifically designed for little ones.

Prepare for bumps and cuts. Any festival should have a first aid tent but you need to be able to deal with minor cuts, grazes and blisters. Pack plasters, anti-bacterial gel, paracetamol, sting cream and any regular medication to last you and the kids for the whole festival.

Keep them hydrated. Dehydration is the top reason for needing medical treatment during festivals. So try to encourage your children to drink plenty of water. Watch for signs of dehydration like thirst or tiredness, headaches, dark or strong wee or weeing infrequently, dizziness or light headedness.

Get mobile. Festivals are typically very spread out which can challenge little legs. A little pull-along, foldable cart is great for moving both kids and your stuff around easily.

Family-friendly music festivals

Camp Bestival was named the Best Family Festival in 2019. There are two locations, Lulworth Castle in Dorset (28-21 July) and Weston Park in Shropshire (18-21 August) and, either way, expect a weekend full of carnival parties, live music and fireworks on rolling fields of green grass. Each festival has something for everyone, with performances from Mr Tumble and Sister Sledge, as well as Sarah Cox and Horrible Histories –Terrible Tudors.

Big Feastival (26-28 August) is the perfect family-friendly festival in the Cotswolds. See a number of musicians, including Anne-Marie, Stereophonics, Basement Jaxx and some acclaimed chefs, such as Clare Smyth and Ravneet Gill. There is also a family-friendly lineup. Children can visit the Cotswold Farm Park, watch performances by Justin Fletcher (Mr Tumble) and listen to CBeebies Bedtime Stories as night approaches.

Next year: BOOK EARLY for Green Man Festival in Wales and Deer Shed Festival in North Yorkshire!

Seven great Forest School activities for kids

By Naomi Walmsley

We all know kids are ‘better’ when they are outside. They can burn energy, get back to basics, connect with nature. They thrive in our natural environment. Interacting with nature offers space for creative play and learning and often offers lessons that can last a lifetime (I still remember the day that the grown-ups insisted my wellies were not tall enough for the depth of that puddleturns out they were right!).

Nature is a playground, a classroom for the curious and an opportunity to connect with our natural world. But sometimes given such a big empty canvas of a space, kids need a little inspiration to get them going. Here are seven ideas from my new book.

Make a simple Stone Age tool

Find a thin sheet of slate. Place the slate on a hard surface and break off bits you don’t want with a round, heavy stone. Make a triangular arrow shape and rub back and forwards to smooth it using sandstone, any rough rock or rough outdoor surface (even a brick wall will do). Hey presto! Your very own simple stone tool.

Become a mud detective!

Mark out a sticky, muddy area (or area of loose dirt) with sticks about three by two feet. One person turns away whilst the other hops, skips and jumps through the pit. Now guess how they moved through by looking closely at their tracks.

Camouflage your hand

It’s all about blending in. Place your hand on a tree or at the base of it. Take away the shine using charcoal, add mud to change the colour. Sprinkle on some woodland mulch or stick on some tiny sticks and moss or bits of bark to add texture.

Nature is a rainbow

You’ll be amazed how many different colours you can see when you start to look. Pick up a free colour chart from a hardware or DIY shop. Head out to the park or forest or even into a town to see which natural things match the colours on your chart.

Conkers are a great resource

At the end of summer, the seeds (conkers), leaves and bark of the horse chestnut tree all contain ‘saponin.’ Saponins have been used for centuries because of their similarities with soap. Grate the conkers, pour over warm water and leave to steep. Use after about half an hour to wash grubby hands. You can even use the mixture to clean your clothes!

Scared of nettles?

Make a goblin or toy village

Imagine a family of tiny goblins or take your favourite toy out with you. Find places that have interesting characteristics, a hole in a tree, creeping roots etc. Add leaves on sticks for miniature trees, pebbles for bridges, moss for roofs and make mini shelters big enough for your imaginary guests or small teddies.

No need! Pick them in spring time using a gardening glove. A large handful will be enough. Add them to a blender with a banana, some pineapple, a glug of coconut milk, a slab of cucumber, half an avocado and blend until completely smooth: this will take the sting out. The only thing you need to be scared of is getting a bright green smoothie moustache!

Forest School Handbook by Naomi Walmsley & Dan Westall is an essential item for the backpack, whatever your age or adventure! GMC Publications, RRP £14.99, available online and from all good bookshops.

Make ice cream strawberry milkshake

We asked Emily Leary, multi-award-winning food, lifestyle and parenting writer, presenter, photographer and author of A Mummy Too (www.amummytoo.co.uk) to share her fantastically yummy ice cream strawberry milkshake recipe with us.

Here’s what to do to make this simple ice cream strawberry milkshake recipe.

Makes 4 glasses

Ingredients

500g (18oz) fresh strawberries hulled (plus 4 to garnish)

300 g (½ pint) vanilla ice cream

Equipment

Weighing scales

Jug blender

Kitchen knife

Chopping board

4 tall glasses

4 straws

Instructions

Step 1

Put the ice cream in a jug blender.

Step 2

Add the strawberries.

Step 3 Whizz until it has an even pink colour and the strawberry seeds have been totally broken down.

Emily says: ‘This ice cream milkshake is simple, refreshing and delicious – and has only two ingredients! The strawberries and ice cream come together to achieve the perfect flavour, thickness, creaminess and sweetness. If you wanted, you could add extra sugar or syrup but I don’t think it needs it at all. A touch of whipped cream on top could be really fun though!’

Step 4

Pour the milkshake into four glasses. Cut a slit into the bottom of each of the 4 strawberries you’ve reserved for decoration. Attach one to the side of each glass.

Add a straw to each glass and serve immediately.

All you’ll need is two ingredients: fresh strawberries and vanilla ice cream!