Families Hampshire West Sep/Oct 23 PRINT issue

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Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk 07789 882467

Sales Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk 07812 218331

Next issue: November/ December

Booking deadline: 2 October

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

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In this issue

© 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.

We are Walhampton

Discover our remarkable School set in a stunning woodland location on the edge of the New Forest.

Our range of outdoor facilities includes a dedicated outdoor classroom where children are nurtured to develop a genuine love of learning.

Welcome

So the new school year rolls around again and your child is heading off to school with bright and shiny new uniform and gear and hopefully a big smile; leaving you with perhaps just a little time on your hands to delve into our great Education feature and explore how to support your child’s learning this year. Whatever stage your child is at you’ll find something of interest, including tips for Parent’s Evening, how to understand learning styles and 11+ preparation.

And it won’t be long before your child starts to get excited about half term, in particular, Halloween, get inspired by our fab costume ideas and haunted house craft project, as well as our sensory play ideas.

And if you’re not looking forward to the nights drawing in and your thoughts are already turning to next year’s holidays, get inspired by the kind of destinations you could head to in 2024 for a great family break.

Look out for our fabulous True’s Mushroom House Playset giveaway. Apply inside and you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Rebecca

Editor, Families Hampshire West

Open

Morning 6th October

Booking essential – contact the School Registrar: Telephone: 01590 613303

Email: registrar@walhampton.com

WALHAMPTON PREP SCHOOL, LYMINGTON, HAMPSHIRE SO41 5ZG.

www.walhampton.com

Discover the Walhampton difference

Set in one hundred acres of lawns, lakes and woodland in the New Forest, Walhampton’s setting is truly remarkable. From Nursery to Prep, Walhampton believes in putting children at the centre of education, with love and nurture that makes learning joyful.

Walhampton’s SPARK enrichment programme offers further opportunities in sport, music, languages and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) related subjects.

The School also offers over 60 extra-curricular activities, including beekeeping, fishing, dance, water sports on the lakes and horse riding in a dedicated equestrian centre so your child will have the time and space to find their passion.

Walhampton is an independent School for boys and girls aged 2-13 and provides flexi and full-time boarding options from age 7, as well as daily wrap-around care from 7.30am to 6pm and an extensive regional bus network.

Find out more at their Open Morning on Friday 6 October. Contact the School Registrar on 01590 613300 or email registrar@walhampton.com to book a place. www.walhampton.com

Over 90% of children get first choice primary school

Over 90 percent of primary school children were accepted into their firstchoice school. Similarly, more than 80 percent of secondary school pupils obtained their top choice.

Recently released data shows that nearly all children in England, 98.6 percent, received an offer to one of their preferred choices for primary school in 2023, while 95.6 percent of secondary school applicants also received a preferred choice according to recently released government data on applications and offers.

However, the proportion of secondary school applicants who received an offer for their first preference school experienced a slight decrease of 0.7 percentage points to 82.6 percent. This decline follows a 2.2 percentage point increase observed in 2022.

Find out more at www.bit.ly/DfEOffers

Children in England ranked fourth globally for reading

Primary school children in England have ranked fourth in the international rankings for reading.

The latest results in the Progress in International Reading Literacy Study - known as Pirls - saw England’s rank jump from eighth position into the top five.

Based on tests taken every five years, the study places countries in a global education league table. Singapore scored the highest result, with an average score of 587. Second was Hong Kong with an average score of 573, followed by Russia (567) and England (558).

The Pirls tests are taken by children ages 9 and 10, normally Year 5 pupils in England, at the end of the school year. Overall, girls were ahead of boys in their reading achievement in nearly all of the ranked countries but the gender gap has narrowed in the most recent testing round.

Find out more at www.iea.nl/studies/iea/pirls

Excellence continues to reign at Prince’s Mead School

Local independent school Prince’s Mead has achieved the highest acclaim possible - ‘excellent’ across all areas in their ISI Inspection.

The co-educational school, which celebrates its 75th Anniversary next year, was highly praised for both its academic and pastoral achievements by ISI inspectors who visited the school earlier this year. They found ‘pupils expressed confidence in their own abilities and talents, feeling happy to be themselves and confident with others within the family ethos of the school.’ Inspectors were impressed that the pupils achieve high academic standards and are successful in entrance assessments to senior schools with competitive entrance criteria; a significant number of pupils gaining scholarships.

Adam King, Headmaster, said: ‘I am very proud of the team at Prince’s Mead and of what we have achieved. You can’t get any better accolade than double excellent at inspection and I am heartened by the wonderful comments we received from parents, as part of the process. I am so proud to be the Head of a school that champions happiness, confidence and the desire to succeed.’

Find out more at their Open Morning on Friday 6 October or visit www.princesmeadschool.org.uk

Celebrating different learning styles

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

Just as none of us look the same, everyone is born with tendencies towards certain learning styles when developing literacy, language and motor skills. Recognising your child’s learning style is important in understanding how they access their learning, particularly if they appear to be struggling in certain areas.

Visual learners rely on what they see. Encourage them to use visual aids, sit at the front of the class and write down or draw information.

Kinesthetic learners learn best through doing and moving. They benefit from using tools, acting out or role-playing new information and having freedom of movement.

Auditory learners learn best through hearing and listening. Engage in discussions about what they are learning, read stories out loud and repeat information.

Solitary learners absorb information independently of other people. Let them make notes and recite back, provide quiet learning spaces and give opportunities for sharing their learning.

Verbal learners respond well to written or spoken words. Play word games, use rhymes, acronyms and mnemonics, read their writing aloud, encourage discussion and debate.

Logical learners use logic and structures in order to learn effectively. Provide problem-solving tasks, challenge them to work things out for themselves and have them verbalise ideas and answers.

Identifying your child’s learning style

Observe how your child naturally interacts with the world around them and also note weaknesses: what types of tasks do they find challenging?

Watch how your child expresses themselves. Children will be more expressive through their natural learning style. Auditory learners express themselves best through words whilst visual learners are more apt to reveal their emotions through facial expressions. Kinesthetic learners use more body language and may seem unable to stop themselves fidgeting.

Consider your child’s interests. These will likely reflect their learning styles. Auditory learners usually show an interest in music and sounds. Visual learners often have interests both in reading, watching TV and looking at interesting objects. With kinesthetic learners, look for an interest in physical activities.

See how your child solves problems. Children lean into their learning styles. Auditory learners tend to talk through and discuss possible solutions whilst visual learners use their eyes to solve problems. Kinesthetic learners will usually try to solve problems with their hands.

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.

Being flexible around learning styles

As important as it is to understand and support your child with simple strategies to help them learn in the way that suits them best, it’s also helpful to encourage and embrace new ideas and a more flexible approach to their learning.

Recent research has concluded that teaching children to use one specific learning style over others may not be entirely beneficial within the classroom setting. Sticking to what you perceive as your preferred learning style can create limitations, giving a false belief that learning can only be managed in one particular way. The most important thing is for a child to have the time to self-reflect on how they learn best and to be encouraged to experiment with tackling problems from a variety of angles.

It is also important to note that over time a child’s learning styles can change as they develop and progress through their own personal growth and their educational journey. Every child is unique and learning style is just one part of the greater way that your child learns.

11+ preparation tips

By Jemma Z Smith

If you have decided on selective secondary school education for your child and made your applications, the next step is entrance exam preparation.

The 11+ exam will almost certainly contain mathematics and English assessments as a minimum. Both of these will often contain questions on parts of the national curriculum your child has already covered in school. But not always. You may need to supplement their learning at home via online resources, targeted question books, past papers and online mock exams.

11+ preparation: more than maths and English

While English and maths make up the basis of most 11+ entrance exams, they are not the only exams that your child might sit. Some papers will contain a creative writing assessment. Some schools also test for reasoning ability. This can incorporate verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, critical and applied reasoning and spatial reasoning.

Many independent schools also call in applicants for interviews or assessment days where students tour the school and take part in various activities. A lot of this content is not taught in schools so preparation outside school hours is vital in order to make sure your child is as prepared as possible. Start early and have a timetable. You might consider tuition, group classes or intensive summer courses but it’s worth working on the preparation at home too.

11+: state grammars versus independent schools

There is no set rule as to what the 11+ will look like for entry to your school of choice. The only thing you can be relatively sure of is to expect a mathematical ability test and an English test as a minimum.

Many state grammar schools use multiple choice assessments from exam boards including GL, CSSE, SET and Future Stories. All state grammar schools within a local authority often have the same test.

Independent schools can design their own papers which may include non-multiple choice questions. Some schools have grouped together to form a ‘consortium’ where your child takes just one test to apply to a variety of schools eg The London Consortium.

Consult the websites of your chosen schools for details on what the exams will include.

It’s always a good idea to ask the schools that you’ve applied for to add you to their mailing lists, so that you will be across any changes that are made to their exam format.

Jemma Z Smith is Director of The Education Hotel. For further advice on the 11+ process, visit www.educationhotel.co.uk

Before you start 11+ preparation

If you are new to the process, there are a few initial steps to take before you plunge into the world of 11+.

Firstly, research your area. In many parts of the UK, 11+ grammar schools do not exist, although there are a few schools around the country to which you can apply regardless of where you live.

Secondly, make sure that you are aware of the school registration dates: some of the dates to register with independent schools are over a year in advance.

Thirdly, be aware of the exam material. Schools do occasionally change what is included in their 11+ exams and you do not want to spend time preparing for an exam which is not going to be relevant for your target school.

Lastly, consider more than one school application. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket: if your child doesn’t get offered a place at this one school and starts Year 7 in a non-selective school, it’s much harder to subsequently find them a selective school place.

Sat

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Making the most of Parents’ Evening

By Justina Gapper

As the new school year gets going, many parents will be anticipating talking to their child’s teacher(s) at a Parents’ Evening. Depending on the school, these consultations will happen at least once a year, sometimes more frequently. If your child is in Reception, this may be a new experience; if you have older children, you may have been to several or even many Parents’ Evenings already.

It’s almost impossible to ask questions of teachers at school drop-offs and pick-ups, so for most parents, the booked Parents’ Evening slot is the only real opportunity for a proper chat with their child’s teaching staff. Therefore it’s really important to maximise the time available in these one-to-one consultations and make sure you get all the information you need.

What to expect

While Parents’ Evenings will vary slightly in format from school to school and year to year, at a minimum you should expect to hear how your child is performing in numeracy and literacy against the expected levels for their age group.

Much more information will be conveyed as your child gets older. Consultations may also cover your child’s behaviour, levels of effort and social and emotional development.

Be prepared

This may sound obvious but unless you want to risk discovering that all the questions you want to ask have vanished from your head, write them down in the run up to Parent’s Evening to make sure you cover them.

Let the teacher speak

If you do have specific questions, it’s best to let the teacher speak first so that they can cover everything they need. The exception is if you need clarification or your question is related to what is being discussed at that moment.

Don’t compare

Try not to focus on comparing your child’s progress with his/her peers or even siblings. The teacher will focus on how your child is achieving against expected levels for their age. It isn’t useful to ask how their performance compares to others in the class. Stay focussed on your own child.

Focus on your child’s level of effort

Don’t underestimate the importance of effort. This is as important as achievement as it reveals a lot about your child’s behaviour, character and motivation. How your child gets on with teachers and peers socially is also very important.

For a quick overview

Ask about your child’s strengths and weaknesses. This will give you a good idea of their overall performance and help you identify the areas in which you should be offering more support at home.

Deal with unexpected news productively

You may hear something about your child that you are not expecting. If this is about a negative aspect of their behaviour or performance in a specific learning area, this may be difficult both to hear and accept.

Try not to get defensive. A teacher I spoke to told me of a consultation during which a father became very accusatory and angry, insisting that the teacher’s perception was incorrect as his child ‘didn’t struggle at home.’ If you do hear something unexpected, ask how you can work with your child to better support them. Teachers may have already prepared a response to this question in advance.

Writing notes

Don’t attempt to write more than a couple of bullet points while the consultation is happening, otherwise you may miss something important that’s being said.

Justina Gapper is mother of twins, journalist and communications specialist.

Involve your child

Write a summary

Now is the time to make a written record of what was said. This can be useful to show other family members but also as a reminder for yourself in the coming months.

Don’t worry, you can see the teacher again

Don’t fret too much if you do feel that there was something that you wanted to talk about but didn’t get the chance. Ask to meet the teacher again, even on a regular basis, if you feel this is warranted.

Parents’ Evenings are about your child, of course. If they are old enough, ask them which aspects of their learning or behaviour they think their teacher might bring up. Discuss it with them, so you are better prepared for the meeting. Note any questions they’d like you to ask.

Afterwards, highlight all the positives that came up. Talk with them about their teacher’s feedback, specifically any home support you might be able to offer if there are particular areas they’re finding more challenging.

How can AI support dyslexia?

By Usha Patel

Recently, the parent of a dyslexic student expressed their concern to me about their son’s preference for writing essays longhand instead of using speech-to-text software. Despite being offered assistive technology, he found that writing and rewriting by hand helped organise his jumbled thoughts and process ideas effectively.

Assistive technology plays a significant role in education, supporting students in all kinds of ways. Spelling and grammar software, for example, is widely used and not just by individuals with dyslexia. It helps improve spelling, grammar, punctuation and sentence structure. These tools enhance the ideas generated by individuals and guide them to ensure accuracy.

Artificial intelligence (AI) takes assistive technology a step further. When asked a question, Natural language processing tool ChatGPT can provide multiple options and ideas, serving as a valuable starting point. However, some individuals with dyslexia, particularly those who struggle with reading, may find it challenging to sift through the responses. So, what can be done to maximise its usefulness?

Education specific AI tools

AI technology can help bring some order to students’ ideas and form them into coherent arguments. This is something that assistive technology cannot do alone. For example, if the student who prefers writing longhand had access to AI technology that could assist him both in writing up his thoughts and managing paragraphs into a logical order, it would greatly benefit him.

With repeated use, the student could acquire the necessary techniques himself and learn the organisation process independently.

Natural language processing tools like ChatGPT can suggest improvements, correct factual errors and enhance the readability of content. This can be especially valuable for dyslexic individuals who struggle with remembering and recalling details, such as in a history project where dates and facts must be accurate.

Overall, AI technology can be a powerful ally in education, assisting students with dyslexia in organising their thoughts and enhancing their overall learning experience.

On the other hand, an over-reliance on AI could inhibit a child’s ability to think creatively for themselves. Take our use of mobile phones for example. We no longer have to remember frequently dialed numbers until we lose our phones. How many numbers from your phone can you remember yourself? AI should therefore be used in moderation.

Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist at Raviv Practice London. If you are interested in learning more about what therapies and methods could be combined with AI to help a dyslexic child achieve their potential, visit www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk

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Using AI effectively with dyslexic children

While AI can be a valuable tool, there are a few considerations to keep in mind for students with dyslexia:

Personalised learning needs: Every student with dyslexia has their own unique learning needs and preferences. While AI can offer personalised recommendations and suggestions, it may not always cater to the specific learning styles, paces or individual needs of students with dyslexia.

Lack of contextual understanding: AI systems operate through algorithms and patterns derived from vast amounts of data. While they can provide information and generate responses, they may lack contextual understanding and nuanced interpretation. Emotional and social aspects: Learning involves not only acquiring knowledge but also emotional and social engagement. Although beneficial in certain aspects, AI cannot fully replace the emotional connection and support provided by human interaction.

Students with dyslexia have unique learning needs that require a personalised approach. Combining the benefits of AI tools with human support can create a more effective and well-rounded learning experience.

Worth £40 each Ages 3+

Top tips for attending school Open Days

By Andrew Campbell

If you are looking ahead to your child’s first or next school, you have big decisions ahead. Do your homework now and the choices will become clearer, particularly when it comes to visiting your shortlist.

TOP TIP: It can take a couple of visits to really nail your school choices. So attend Open Days for key schools two years in advance of your child’s start date so you have time to come back to an Open Day the following year. Bear in mind that independent schools are generally nonselective at Reception, so get your name on waiting lists early.

Here are Families’ tips for preparation and getting the most out of your visit.

Do your research

Study the school’s website noting where the gaps are in your knowledge and which questions you want to ask. Are there particular entry requirements? How long is the school day? How many students per class? Are there taster sessions for children before the start of term? Make a list of questions covering the things that are a priority for your family. If your child is moving on to senior school, you may want to ask about things like mobile phone policy. If it’s a state school you are visiting, check your understanding of the catchment area, as these can change from year to year.

Feel the vibe

Are the pupils around you happy and smiling? If it’s a school day, are they enjoying each other’s company? Do they seem articulate, confident and polite? Are the staff warm, welcoming and personable? Do they talk passionately about their subjects? At primary schools, is there colourful artwork and projects on display?

Go to the Head’s talk

Schools very much reflect the personality, vision, values and ethos of the Headteacher. If the Head is giving a talk, you will get a real sense of these by attending. If you feel the Head speaks your language, it’s likely you will go on to like the school.

Talk to the students

Often, groups of students are recruited to show parents around, particularly at senior school level. Ask these students the same questions you ask the teachers, looking out for differences in what you hear. Remember kids are known for saying it like it really is! Ask students how they found their first year? What is food like (very important to your child)!

Ask about pastoral care

Your child’s happiness, physical and emotional wellbeing at school are crucial. Ask how the school covers these needs. Is there is a specific pastoral care department and who runs it? Meet and chat to them or

to the Head or another senior member of the team. With mental health issues on the rise amongst even the youngest children, it’s a must-ask question.

Is the school offering the right balance of subjects?

This becomes more critical at secondary school. Are GCSE and A level subjects very academic or more practical? For example, if your child loves music, cooking or design technology, are there the facilities and will your child be free to pursue these subjects to GCSE and A level?

Ask about facilities and co-curricular activities

What interests does your child have and does the school cater for them? How much sport/PE is on offer? Which clubs are run? Is there a breakfast club? Is there plenty of outdoor space? What special trips are on offer?

Speak to key subject teachers

What does the maths teacher say when you discuss your child’s challenges in maths? How does the English teacher engage with your child who is passionate about English? Does the drama teacher impress you?

Single sex or co-ed?

Many parents have a strong feeling either way. But if you don’t, it’s worth visiting both types of schools and asking staff what they see as the benefits and downsides so you can weigh these up.

Handling head lice

By Andrew Campbell

Head lice are a common problem faced by many parents, so here is what to do when there’s a classroom outbreak.

It helps to first understand the facts:

• Head lice are 2.5mm to 3mm long at adult stage.

• Their eggs are small, white and stick to the head, taking seven to ten days to hatch and then seven to ten days to mature into adults.

• Head lice only survive two to three days away from a human head.

• Contrary to myth, head lice don’t jump or fly, they don’t have a preference for either clean or dirty hair and they spread only from head to head contact, not from pillows or hairbrushes.

Symptoms

These can include itching, small itchy rash-like pink bumps around the edge of the scalp and the feeling of something crawling in the hair. Or there may be no symptoms and you might only find lice by systematically parting and combing the hair with a fine-toothed nit comb from the root of the hair.

You will be able to see any lice, eggs or nits if you wipe the comb on a tissue between strokes. If you find any, it’s advisable to check the whole family’s hair.

Getting rid of head lice

Your local chemist will stock insecticide and non-insecticide treatment shampoos. Check your chosen product is suitable for the age of your child and note that some treatments are not suitable for pregnant women. There is no medical evidence of the effectiveness of Tea Tree Oil.

An alternative to treatment shampoos is wet combing with conditioner in the first instance or using this alongside the treatment shampoo. This can be helpful as some head lice are resistant to insecticides. If the treatment product requires you to treat the hair more than once, wet comb in between treatments to remove any eggs that may have hatched.

Wet combing

To wet comb, wet the hair, apply conditioner and thoroughly comb through all of the hair, in sections. Wash off the conditioner and repeat. In between each stroke, you need to wipe the comb on a tissue to check for lice. Repeat wet combing every two or three days until no lice have been seen for ten

NHS 111 to offer paediatric advice

Parents and carers using NHS 111 online or by phone are to receive increased access to specialist paediatric advice for their children.

This will include support from an increased number of paediatric clinicians working in NHS 111 to help parents and carers manage their child’s illness at home or decide the best route for their care.

Some children will be referred directly to a same-day appointment with a specialist rather than attending A&E, avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions.

More info at www.england.nhs.uk/news

days. The aim is to remove all the lice as they hatch before they have the chance to mature, produce new eggs and reinfest your child.

Repeated checking

Whichever method you choose to treat your child, you should keep checking their hair regularly after the last of the lice have disappeared. This is because head lice lay a new batch of eggs daily. They take seven to ten days to hatch, so even if you’ve got rid of the live lice, there may be more waiting to hatch.

Check for head lice every time you wash your child’s hair, as it’s easier to spot lice on wet hair. Double check places like the nape of the neck and behind the ears where head lice sometimes lurk.

Head lice can be hard to shift. Their life-cycle, small size and the problem of treatment resistance all conspire to make this tricky. It’s not uncommon for family members to re-infest each other as head lice move from one head to another, plus of course, unless your child’s school friends have also been treated, head lice infestations can just continue to circulate in their class. If you’re finding head lice stubbornly hanging on, speak to your chemist for advice.

Common questions

Do I need to keep my child at home? No - as long as you are actively treating the lice. Naturally you should inform your child’s school so they can let other parents know. It’s advisable to keep long hair tied back and warn anyone your child mixes with of the situation.

If your child is old enough, you can explain to them that it’s a good idea not to get their head too close to that of other people. Do I need to wash all bedding? You don’t need to worry about other family members or friends being infected from things your child’s head has touched like pillows, duvets, cushions or soft toys.

What about pets? Head lice don’t feed on animal blood so this is nothing to be concerned about.

Where can I read more? The Little Book of Nits, by Richard Jones and Justine Crow is both a fact-packed manual and entertaining read. Signed copies are £7.99 and available from www.booksellercrow.co.uk

Girlguiding and Scouts today Building resilience, confidence and wellbeing

By Tara Pahari

Girlguiding has been a part of millions of girls’ lives for one hundred and thirteen years and counting. Set up because girls wanted an equal world with the same opportunities as boys, impressive progress has been made since it began. But things can still be tough for girls. With many facing high expectations and anxieties in every area of their lives, they can be limited by gender stereotypes and face barriers to accessing the things they need to feel happy.

In Girlguiding’s annual Girls’ Attitudes Survey, two in three girls and young women ages 11 to 21 said that being part of a youth organisation makes them feel accepted and more connected to others. Girls in Girlguiding are more confident than their peers, with nearly nine in ten saying they like being the way they are, compared with just six in ten who have never been in Girlguiding.

Youth groups such as Girlguiding and Scouts are equipping young people with transferable life skills such as leadership, money management and teamwork. A recent report from Demos has demonstrated how skills learnt from Scouting can make a significant difference to employability.

Guides today can still earn badges, in an updated programme which includes mindfulness, self-care and media criticism. Girls are also supported to develop emotionally, mentally and physically so they can make a positive contribution to their community and the wider world.

Empowering girls for more than a hundred years, Girlguiding is committed to doing the same today, with a keen focus on what drives, challenges and excites girls. Whether that’s the thrill of trying a new activity, singing around a campfire, enjoying the buzz of earning a new badge or emailing her MP about the issues she cares about; it’s a space where she can be herself, get creative, explore and most of all, have fun.

The benefits for future health

Research from a University of Edinburgh study shows that the benefits of Girlguiding and Scouting even continue into later life, with the allencompassing activities they offer outperforming other after-school clubs and activities.

As a result of being supported in their personal development, adults who have been involved in Girlguiding or Scouting are more likely to have self-reported excellent health at age fifty compared to their peers, including better mental health in later life.

The research also found that those who had been in Girlguiding or Scouts had a better chance of social mobility, which can have a positive knock-on effect for better health. According to researchers, their findings suggest that going to Girlguiding and Scouts helps to develop skills such as resourcefulness and teamwork. These key characteristics help people to build resilience against everyday stresses in life.

Girlguiding’s programme provides a safe space where girls can develop their own resourcefulness and self-reliance. Add to that the wealth of healthy outdoor activities and it’s clear to see the lifelong benefits for health and wellbeing.

Meanwhile, Scouting embraces an inclusive Skills for Life strategy that encompasses teamwork, leadership and resilience and this has not gone unnoticed in the world of employment.

The report highlighted that over half of Scouts felt ready for the world of work compared to a third of those who did not participate in any extra-curricular activities. With many employers struggling to hire people with teamwork skills or emotional resilience, these transferable skills are currently in huge demand.

For more information about joining Girlguiding visit www.girlguiding.org.uk and Scouts www.scouts.org.uk

Get autumn-term ready with a free Perform class

Perform classes use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Run by experienced actor-teachers, the classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration.

From September, ages 4-7 will take to the skies with Phileas Fogg as they go on an amazing adventure Around the World. Whether walking like a wallaby in the outback or revealing the legends of the Egyptian pyramids, the new term will be filled with globetrotting fun!

Meanwhile, ages 7-12 are going to the ball in a rags-to-riches rock show, Cinderella Rocks. This hilarious version of Cinderella features struggling band, The Ugglies, in their quest to top the charts with charming music mogul, Simon Prince.

With all abilities welcome, the children will work towards an end of term performance for family and friends. The only requirement is to get ready to have the best fun of the week!

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class in Chandlers Ford, Lymington, Romsey, Southampton or Winchester.

Learning the FUNdamentals of Football

Stagecoach is the Uk’s largest performing arts school, providing children ages 4 to 18 with training in drama, dance and singing. And, the good news is that there are six local Stagecoach schools covering Southampton, Eastleigh and Chandlers Ford.

They are celebrating 25 years of giving students the opportunity to build their self-confidence, communication skills and creativity. No previous experience is necessary and there’s no need to audition - energy and enthusiasm is all they ask for. They also run their very popular ‘Early Stages’ classes for ages 4 to 6, providing an introduction to the performing arts, but adapted to the needs of younger children.

Schools open at weekends during term time at King Edward VI School in Southampton and at Thornden Hall in Eastleigh. Students are taught by experienced teachers, professional performers, choreographers and musicians.

To start your child on their Stagecoach journey and for more information visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/southampton, www.stagecoach.co.uk/eastleigh or call 01962 771024.

2024 family friendly holiday destinations

By Ashley Lutz

Family holidays are opportunities to spend quality time together while making unforgettable memories. With cost always a factor though, booking ahead can offer the benefits of low deposits, discounts and even free child places. Plus you have more time to get excited and have something to look forward to! If you’ve not booked a family trip for 2024, here are some fabulous ideas.

Crete

Explore the largest of the Greek islands. For younger kids there are many quiet beaches and secluded coves. For the bigger ones, theme parks, aquariums and water sports are easy to come by. Should you squeeze in a chilled ‘adult day,’ laid back boat trips and snaking coastal walks promise spectacular sea and valley views. This island really does have something for everyone.

Abu Dhabi

Consider booking Abu Dhabi over Dubai for winter sun. It’s more relaxed, very well suited to families of all ages and has a less chaotic feel to it. Familyfriendly activities include Ferrari World, waterparks, snorkelling, diving, kayaking and relaxing sunset cruises. There is even a Warner Bros World!

Portugal

Explore beyond the Algarve on a fun road trip. Even in the summer motorways tend to be quiet, making it easy to explore a variety of regions, each with its own unique character. There are so many fun routes to explore which take in long golden beaches, hilltop medieval villages, famous vineyards, the natural beauty of the islands and delicious food.

Switzerland

This can be a magical, great outdoor destination for family holidays and breaks. Whether bathing in one of the many lakes or rivers, up high, climbing a mountain on a hike or cycling through unique landscapes, Switzerland is a paradise for summer outdoor adventures.

Sweden

Consider a family trip to Sweden in summer. You can relax and explore in equal measure. Enjoy the pure bliss of jumping into lakes, kayaking and swimming in the sea. Rest your head in a tent for some wild camping or book into a comfy boutique hotel. From staying in the unspoilt nature of Swedish Lapland to exploring Stockholm and its vast archipelago, Sweden is a dream for nature lovers and adventurous travellers.

Krk Island, Croatia

Connected to the mainland by bridge and also accessible directly by air, this island is lesser known and there’s no need for ferries. Krk’s natural beauty and numerous activities like scuba diving, go karting or simply just relaxing on one of the many lovely beaches and coves make it perfect for families.

Mauritius

For stunning scenery and beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine and enough breeze to keep young children cool, Mauritius is perfect both for summer and Christmas holidays. This wonderful island is extremely familyfriendly with plenty of hotels, restaurants and activities which cater well for families.

Thailand

For a long haul adventure, this is a great option. Travelling with children is easy, with welcoming locals and great domestic travel options helping you to explore with ease. From the hustle and bustle of Bangkok to the chilled out vibes of island life, there’s something for everyone.

Ashley Lutz is a Travel Counsellor with seventeen years’ experience working with families to find inspiring holidays best suiting their wants, needs and budget. More info at www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/ashley.lutz

Is it ever okay to… give parenting advice to another parent?

By Ellie Malt

Where do you stand on giving parenting advice to another parent? Should you try to help or steer clear altogether and give them the space to find their own solutions? If you are minded to have your say, we’ve got some suggestions to reduce the risk of sounding like a know-it-all. Two mums give their, ahem… advice!

We all know at least one baby who slept easily and fed beautifully from week one. If you are lucky in that respect, it is particularly tempting to offer advice but please don’t think you’ve discovered some amazing secret for solving all the problems of another parent.

Jumping in with advice can be the opposite of helpful; it may sound like you think you know the situation better than the parents. In reality, you can’t know all the factors at play.

It’s easy to blame ‘parenting’ when often there are biological issues that lie behind struggles with feeding, sleeping and meltdowns, many of which may not emerge for years. For example, developmental delays, sensory issues, hearing loss, ADHD, autism, eczema, reflux and allergies are just a few of the many (and sometimes invisible) possibilities. And it can take years for parents to figure out causes or find solutions. During that time, it’s typical for parents to feel judged, so while offering advice to an already sleep-deprived parent might make you feel better, it’s more likely to make them feel worse.

Advice, particularly when it hasn’t been asked for, can often land when energy levels are already low, putting the onus on the parent to have to justify why what has worked for you just doesn’t work for their child.

Anna, mum of two boys, from Devon

How to pick the right moment?

Timing is key: no matter how good the advice, it’s a bad idea to suggest anything after a particularly difficult night or right in the middle of any meltdown.

It’s important to see how the advice is being received, so avoid sending an email/text/WhatsApp or posting on social.

If in doubt, hold back. If someone shares a problem, chances are a non-judgmental listening ear and sympathy are actually more helpful than advice, however well-meant.

Getting advice at the right time and from the right people can be helpful. For example, when meeting up with other new mums to feed your baby and enjoy a coffee together, it seems natural to talk about what you’re going through and to compare experiences.

When you are all just figuring it out together, it feels less judgemental; more of a safe space in which to swap stories about small wins and epic fails. Just occasionally a golden nugget of advice will drop into your lap.

On the flipside, lots of parenting advice either won’t work for your particular situation or your child or it may be out of date. Granted, it can be irritating when advice is worded as if it’s a universal law applicable to everyone, therefore implying you are a ‘bad parent’ for not doing whatever it is. That said, it would be a shame to miss out on something useful just because of another person’s misplaced sense of conviction or poor timing.

I try to see advice as a potential tool rather than a rule and remind myself it’s in my power to be curious, to test and then reject or accept it. Even when the advice doesn’t work, ruling it out is one step closer to success. In this way I can see parenting as a process of constant refinements rather than a reflection on some kind of innate ability.

Sarah, mum of three, from Oxfordshire

What to share instead of advice?

Your own problems: in moderation. This helps the other parent feel less alone.

Things you are considering trying yourself but haven’t yet! So there’s no suggestion that you have the absolute answer. Useful gadgets/objects: keeps the focus on physical solutions rather than criticising actions.

Share your sources: mentioning helpful podcasts, books etc instead of offering specific advice (but only send a link if the person asks you to).

‘Jumping in with advice can be the opposite of helpful.’

‘Just occasionally a golden nugget will drop into your lap.’

Let’s enjoy sensory play

By Katie Still

Sensory activities enrich children’s play by encouraging them to engage their senses and explore and understand the world around them, sparking their imaginations and developing curiosity. Stimulating children’s senses supports their cognitive development, language and communication skills, physical, social and emotional development.

Sensory play can be magical - there are so many reasons why I love it. We discover the wonders that life brings when listening to birds in the trees and feeling grass between our toes. It offers little ones (and their grown-ups too) the freedom to explore, get messy, go wild and have heaps of fun. Sensory play can be incredibly simple too.

Here are some suggestions:

Cork boat races

Nature confetti

Ready, set, go! Your child can make super-simple cork sailing boats, then have a boat race across the bathtub. Safety first: don’t forget adult supervision is always required when a child is playing with water.

Go and grab… corks, elastic bands, triangular pieces of paper, colouring pens, cocktail sticks, an optional straw. A bathtub or tray of water.

Line up three corks in a row. Pop an elastic band around them at each end to hold them together.

Make a paper sail and use the colouring pens to make a pattern. Push a cocktail stick carefully through the sail for a mast (adults, probably best you do this), then slowly stick it into the middle cork.

Ready to set sail? Brilliant! Set the boats afloat in the bathtub or a tray of water and see which one crosses the finish line first. Sails need wind, don’t they? Show your child how to use a straw to blow wind into the sails. How fast can the boat go?

Let’s explore it!

Pop some toys on the boat. How many can it carry? Which toys are too heavy and sink the boat? Take the boats outside: can you sail them in a puddle?

It’s time to go exploring in the garden or park for differentcoloured leaves to make some beautiful nature confetti.

Go and grab… a collection bowl and some shape-punchers. Find a selection of leaves of different colours and shapes, avoiding prickly, stinging or dangerous plants. Slide each one into the shape-puncher and make holes all over the leaf. Fill the bowl with the little shapes, taking care to keep little fingers clear of the puncher. What will your child want to do with their nature confetti - stick it on a picture maybe, or sprinkle it on the grass?

Let’s hear it!

What sounds can your child hear outside? Leaves rustling, bees buzzing, birds singing and dogs barking…

Story stones

Katie Still (aka Instagram’s Playful Wonders) is the author of Playful Wonders, a new book jam-packed with sensory play ideas. The book is published by DK and available from www.bookshop.org

Let your child’s imagination run wild by creating some story stones to invent their own story!

Go and grab… paints and paintbrushes or colouring pens. A small bag or basket. Storybooks if you need some inspiration. Go outside and collect some stones. Can you help your child find flat-ish ones that are all different shapes and sizes? Next, ask your child what they will paint on their story stones. Maybe characters from a book or animals; or simply things that they love? If drawing is too tricky, your little one can use stickers on their stones.

Once they’ve finished, pop the stones into the bag or basket and your child is ready to play. Ask them to take out the first stone. What drawing is on it? It’s over to them to make up a story around it; they decide what happens! Then they pull out a second stone - what’s the next part of the story…?

Let’s make it!

What sounds can your child make to accompany their story: the splash of waves maybe or the hum of an insect?

What's On

All listings correct at the time of going to print. Email: editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk to promote your local event in the next issue. Don’t forget to sign up for our digital magazine for more interactive content at familiesmagazine.co.uk/go

DIARY DATES

Throughout Sep & Oct ‘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 Sep & Oct 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 Sep & Oct 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+.

Throughout Sep & Oct 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 Fri. £32.50 per day (5% sibling discount and weekly discounts available).

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 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. FREE with general admission.

Until 29 Oct Brass Rubbing Trail Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway, Southampton, SO45 1AZ www.exbury.co.uk

Grab your crayons and trail pack and set off on your Exbury adventure. Throughout the woodland gardens you can find 8 rubbings, that will introduce you to some of the wildlife who live in the New Forest. Pick up your trail pack from the Visitor Entrance and follow the map to find the 8 brass rubbing posts. FREE with garden admission. 10am-4.30pm.

Until 29 Oct

Inclusive Sensory Trail

The Vyne, Basingstoke RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Come and have a go at the inclusive trail, developed in partnership with Tadley Court School. This adventure consists of eight sensory experiences where you’re invited to smell, touch, look and listen to your natural surroundings. Pick up a free trail map from the visitor reception. 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.

Until 5 Nov

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

Enjoy a family-friendly exhibition and activity trails at Mottisfont, exploring the much-loved children’s books created by Allan and Janet Ahlberg. Discover over 70 original artworks in gallery rooms transformed into imaginative, playful spaces, with cosy reading zones, interactive experiences, and blown-up backdrops for family photos. Outside, different trails in summer and autumn introduce characters from the books, with fun games and challenges to complete. 10am-5pm. Admission + £3 trail.

AUTUMN

Mon 4 to 30 Sep September For Seniors

Monkey World, Wareham, BH20 6HH www.monkeyworld.org

Monkey World is celebrating seniors this September and any visitor over 65 will get half price entry to the park! Treetops café will also be running special meal deals throughout September too! Come and see 260 rescued and endangered primates, including chimpanzee Bixa, who at 46 is the oldest chimp at the park!

Sat 9 Sep

Heritage Open Days

Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

From its origins as an Iron Age trading centre to Anglo Saxon glory, the last journey of Jane Austen to the hunt for King Alfred’s remains, explore the sights and sounds of Winchester past and present across the museum’s three floors. FREE entry.

Sat 9 & Sun 10 Sep

Heritage Open Days

The Vyne, Basingstoke RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne

Once an important Tudor palace, this mansion has some illustrious connections, from Henry VIII to Jane Austen. Outside, there’s acres of gardens, meadows and woods to enjoy. Parking needs to be prebooked. 10am-4pm.

Thu 14 Sep

Heritage Open Days

The Brickworks Museum, Swanwick, SO31 7HB

www.thebrickworksmuseum.org

See the Museum for free! In celebration of Heritage Open Days – a national event that aims to make heritage accessible to all. If you have always wondered what the museum was like, come and take a look. 11am-4pm.

Sat 16 & Sun 17 Sep

Horrible Histories: Barmy

Britain Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So Barmy Britain is back with the hit West End show, full of crazy new characters and rude new rulers from Britain’s barmy past! Ages 5+.

Sun 17 Sep

The Bubble Show

Forest Arts Centre, New Milton BH25 6DS www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Join Mr. Bubbles with his extraordinary soap bubbles in all shapes and sizes! 2pm. Ages 3+.

Sun 17 Sep

Fun Walks & Fun Run

Boaz, Hill Farm, Sutton Scotney, SO21 3NT www.boazproject.co.uk

Fun day with walks, games, fancy dress, hot food, live music and fun run (10am). Raising funds for adults with learning disabilities. 12pm.

Sun 24 Sep

The Trains Take Over

The Brickworks Museum, Swanwick, SO31 7HB www.thebrickworksmuseum.org Ride the rails as autumn sets in

at The Brickworks Museum. Train rides and Children’s Craft Activities carry a small extra charge that goes towards the upkeep of the railway and the Museum. 11am-4pm.

Sun 24 Sep

I Spy With My Little Eye

The Arc, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.hampshireculture.org.uk/ event/i-spy-my-little-eye

You are all invited to Molly’s 6th birthday. There’ll be a terrific treasure hunt, all your favourite sing-along songs and lots of fantastic games to play, including Molly’s favourite game: I Spy With My Little Eye! So put on your party clothes and come join in for a magical day of fun and laughter. 2.30pm. Ages 2+.

Sat 30 Sep to Sun 19 Nov

Autumn Colour Trail

The Vyne, Basingstoke RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne

Using a colour wheel, available for £1 from Visitor Reception, search the grounds for the rich and varied shades of autumn. On the other side, outlines of tree leaves provide handy hints to help identify autumnal foliage. 10am-5pm. 30 Oct–19 Nov, 10am-4pm. Last entry one hour before closing.

Sat 7 to Mon 30 Oct

Science Spooktacular

Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, SO21 1HZ www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Join Skully the Skeleton for a fiendishly fun trick or treat trail around the Science Centre. See page 18 for more information.

Sat 14 to Sun 29 Oct

Spooky Pumpkin Halloween Trail

Hinton Ampner, SO24 0LA www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hintonampner

Wilma the Witch needs your help to lift the curse on Hinton Ampner… but there’s a problem. Wilma’s pesky pumpkin pals have stolen the pages from her spell book! Track down the pumpkins around the grounds and tackle the challenges to help Wilma cast her spell. £2 including a pencil and prize. 10am-4pm.

Sat 14 to Mon 30 Oct

Halloween Spooktacular

Paultons Park, Ower, SO51 6Al www.paultonspark.co.uk

Join Paultons Park for a Halloween spooktacular and enjoy Peppa

Pig World‘s spooky Halloween makeover. The Legend of Paultons Manor show – an all-singing and dancing extravaganza. And, Ghoulish fun: meet Pickles the Pumpkin and the rest of the spirit squad characters! Late night opening on 24, 25 & 26 Oct.

Spooky Halloween Trails at The National Trust

Sat 21 Oct

The Three Little Pigs

The Point, Eastleigh SO50 9DE www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

Be blown away by the world of Stuff and Nonsense in this joyful retelling of a classic tale. Told in a unique physical style with raucous puppets, this is high-octane family theatre that will make you howl! 2pm. Ages 3+.

Sat 21 to Sun 29 Oct

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

Calling all witches and wizards!

Try your hand at the magical arts of broomstick flying, spellcasting, herbology and care of mythical creatures. 10am-5pm.

Sat 21 to Sun 29 Oct

Witch’s Halloween Recipe Trail

The Vyne, Basingstoke RG24 9HL www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne

‘Hubble bubble toil and trouble…’ this half-term, hunt The Vyne’s gardens in search of mysterious and bizarre ingredients to complete the witch’s potion. £2 per trail sheet and sweetie prize. 10am-5pm. Last entry 4pm.

Sat 21 to Tue 31 Oct

Spooky Halloween Bakes

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA www.hants.gov.uk

To coincide with the Halloween activities in the Gardens in the Courtyard Café they are offering some spooky cookies and Halloween bakes. 10am-5pm.

Sun 22 Oct

Halloween and Autumn Steam

Up The Brickworks Museum, Swanwick, SO31 7HB www.thebrickworksmuseum.org

As the nights darken and the season draws in, don’t miss the chance to explore the genuinely haunted museum at Halloween. 11am-4pm.

Mon 23 Oct

All-day Kids Club: Spooky Ships and Haunted Houses

SeaCity Museum, Southampton, SO14 7FY

www.seacitymuseum.co.uk

Get spoooky making your own ghostly ship and haunted house using range of arty techniques. 9am4pm. £35 per day (£90 for 3 days). Ages 6-12.

Mon 23 Oct

I Believe in Unicorns

Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB

www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Award-winning storyteller Danyah

Miller brings best-selling children’s author Michael Morpurgo’s treasured story to life. An enchanting and interactive production. 11.30am & 2pm. Ages 6+.

Mon 23 Oct

Art For All: Watercolour and Wax

Autumn Paintings

Southampton City Art Gallery

SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Join in amongst the paintings at the gallery to create a beautiful mixed media autumn picture using wax crayons, watercolours and collage. 10am, 11.30am or 1.30pm. £7. Ages 5+.

Mon 23 Oct

Vile Victorian Surgery Workshop

Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

This historical Halloween workshop is sure to provide your seasonal dose of child-friendly gore. Get hands on identifying herbs and spices, linking symptoms to cures, and even amputating an arm... yes, you read that right! Interactive performances will take place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Ages 5-11.

Mon 23 Oct

Hands On History:

Frankenstein’s Clay Creations

Tudor House, Southampton, SO14 2AD

www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Venture into Dr Frankenstein’s lair and mould your own hideous clay creation to take away with you. The session will also take a look at some other nasty ways people used to ward off ghosts in the past. 10.30am, 1pm. £8. Ages 6+.

Mon 23 to Sun 29 Oct

Halloween at Exbury Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway, Southampton, SO45 1AZ www.exbury.co.uk

Enjoy a range of spooky workshops and activities including halloween face painting, a gruesome garden, pumpkin carving and the popular halloween ghost train. 10am-5.30pm.

Tue 24 Oct

Art For All: Clay Owls Southampton City Art Gallery, SO14 7LY www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Twit twoo! Enjoy a relaxing hour and a half, playing with clay to create a seasonal owl sculpture and at this fun and friendly workshop. 10am, 12.30pm or 2.30pm. £8. Ages 5+.

Tue 24 Oct

The Crockodogopig

The Point, Eastleigh SO50 9DE www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

Experience the magic of The Crockodogopig, a captivating family show blending live music, puppetry, comedy, and beatboxing! Filled with laughter and wonder, The Crockodogopig invites audiences ages 4+ to rediscover the joy of storytelling.

Tue 24 & Wed 25 Oct

All-day Kids Club: 2D Monster Mash Up SeaCity Museum, Southampton, SO14 7FY www.seacitymuseum.co.uk

Try your hand at art techniques and create some gruesome pictures of amazing monsters from your mind. 9am-4pm. £35 per day (£90 for 3 days) Ages 6-12.

Wed 25 Oct

Art School: Zombies Sculptures

Southampton City Art Gallery, SO14 7LY

www.southamptoncityartgallery. com

Be inspired by the sculptures on display in the gallery to create a macquette from wire before coating with layers of clay to create a spooky sculpture of your choice and a surrounding scene. 10am-3pm, £28. Ages 7+.

Wed 25 Oct

Tours For All: Scary and Spooky Southampton Walking Tour Tudor House, Southampton, SO14 2AD www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Join tour guide Andy Skinner in exploring the hidden histories of Southampton by venturing into vaults and scale the town’s ancient walls while discovering tales of war, plague, villainy and ghosts! 11am, 2pm. £7 per person, £24 family ticket. Ages 6+.

Wed 25, Thu 26 & Fri 27 Oct

Pumpkin Carving

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA www.hants.gov.uk

Come along and carve a pumpkin. £6.50 per child. Pre-book. Sessions at 10.30am, 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm.

Wed 25 Oct

Dinosaur Adventure Live

The Berry Theatre, Southampton, SO30 4EJ www.theberrytheatre.co.uk/events/ dinosaur-adventure-live-oct-2023

The Greatest Prehistoric Show on Earth 65 million years in the making... Are you ready for the adventure? Join the intrepid rangers on a quest to recover the data crystal, restore power to the island and save the dinosaurs! This aweinspiring interactive stage show captivates both young and young at heart, immersing audiences in the enthralling and realistic world of dinosaurs. £15. 2pm & 4.30pm.

Thu 26 Oct

Halloween Family Fun Day

Tudor House, Southampton, SO14 2AD

www.tudorhouseandgarden.com

Meet the friendly spirits in the Banqueting Hall and take part in loads of spooky, fun activities throughout the day. There’ll be creepy crafts, gruesome games, face painting and a haunting trail! Join one of the spooky ghost tours to discover the stories hidden in the house. FREE admission but charges apply for some drop-in activities. Pre-book tours.

Thu 26 to Sun 29 Oct

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt MAST Mayflower Studios

Southampton SO14 7DU

www.mayflowerstudios.org.uk

Join the intrepid family of adventurers and their musical dog on a quest to find a bear; as they wade through the gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the squelchy mud! Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes, plenty of adventure and a few surprises. Ages 3+.

Sat 28 Oct

Wicked Fun in the Woods

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA

www.hants.gov.uk

Along with other wicked fun, activities will include pumpkin soup and wand making around an open fire in the woods. Ages 4-12 (must be accompanied) £16 for 1 child, 1 adult. Pre-book.

Sat 28 & Sun 29 Oct

Apple Days

Hinton Ampner, Alresford SO24 0LA

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hintonampner

An annual, national celebration of apples and orchards, Apple Days are held all over the country to celebrate and demonstrate the richness and diversity of apple varieties, orchards, soil ecology and culture. Delight in the wonderful orchard at Hinton Ampner, bursting with fruit. Joined by experts from Sparsholt College. 10am-5pm.

Sun 29 Oct

Interactive Ghost Stories

Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES

www.hampshireculture.org.uk

Ever wondered who, or what, haunts Winchester? Here is your chance to find out with Winchester Ghost Stories, an interactive tour taking place at the Winchester City Museum! 3pm. All ages.

Tue 31 Oct

Halloween at Monkey World Wareham, BH20 6HH www.monkeyworld.org

FREE entry for children in full Halloween fancy dress. Fancy dress competition with prizes, as well as the activity centre open for children. Select the fancy dress option when booking online.

Sat 25 Nov to Mon 1 Jan

Peter Rabbit™ Festive Adventure

Hampshire Country Parks

www.hants.gov.uk/

festiveadventure

Join Peter Rabbit™ and friends for a festive adventure trail around the country parks. £7 per trail pack when you book tickets early.

Sat 25 Nov to Mon 1 Jan

A Winter Wonderland with Snowman™ and the Snowdog Hampshire Country Parks www.hants.gov.uk/winterwander

Enjoy a festive adventure trail around the country parks. £7 per trail pack when you book tickets early.

Sat 9 to Sun 31 Dec

Father Christmas

The Berry Theatre, Southampton, SO30 4EJ www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

Bloomin’ snow! Bloomin’ reindeer! Bloomin’ Christmas! Enjoy Raymond Briggs’ joyful Father Christmas. Book your tickets now.

Giggles, gasps and gasses at Science Spooktacular

It’s trick or treat season and Winchester Science Centre is pulling out all the stops to fill this one with giggles, gasps and gasses!

Between Saturday 7 and Monday 30 October, there’ll be all the usual Science Centre fun, plus even more to excite all ages at Science Spooktacular – and it’s all included with admission. There’ll be giggles galore as little monsters hit the dancefloor at the Halloween disco. Listen out for the sounds of astounded gasps as families swap spooky scares for frightfully fun science in the Trick or Treat Trail. And head off on a gassy journey through our digestive system to discover what happens to all those tasty Halloween treats with brand new live science show, can you stomach it?

From 9.30am to 5pm (last entry 2pm). All visits must be booked in advance.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Book now for Father Christmas at The Berry Theatre, Hedge

Bloomin’ snow! Bloomin’ reindeer! Bloomin’ Christmas!

Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Raymond Briggs’ joyful (and at times a bit grumpy!) Father Christmas at The Berry Theatre, Hedge End from Saturday 9 to Sunday 31 December.

From the writer of The Snowman and co-produced by the Lyric Hammersmith with Olivier Award-nominated Pins and Needles, this much-loved family story of Father Christmas getting ready for a night’s hard work on bloomin’ Christmas Eve will bring festive cheer to ages 0 to 6 and all the family!

For a full list of performance dates and times please see the website.

Book your tickets now at www.theberrytheatre.co.uk to enjoy this Christmas classic.

Sat 25 Nov – Mon 1 Jan

Join Peter Rabbit™ and friends for a festive adventure around some of Hampshire’s most spectacular country parks!

Each pack includes a trail guide, free babyccino voucher plus a special Peter Rabbit™ gift!

Halloween costume ideas

By Tamsin Ryan

Kids love an excuse to dress up and Halloween provides the perfect opportunity. However, forking out to buy a brand-new costume, which is likely to only be suitable for just one night of the year, can seem wasteful, both in terms of the cost and the impact on the planet. If you have young children, all the black costumes and skeletons can sometimes be a bit scary too, so something a bit more colourful may be in order. So, why not try something a little different this year?

If your kids are anything like my daughter, then they will probably have already managed to amass a selection of costumes at home, which means you have a great starting point. With a little creativity, many of them can be upcycled or modified to create the perfect Halloween outfit, without having to break the bank. The skills and equipment required are very limited, so most people should have what they need at home.

Spooky scientist

This costume started life as a doctor’s lab coat! I then found some test tubes, which we had from planting seeds on a previous visit to an RHS garden and filled them with water and food colouring. I also re-purposed one of my husband’s old lanyards from a conference he went to and used it to create a name badge. I’m sure many of you will also have a small pair of Harry Potter style glasses you could add for the final touch. Then finish it off with some spiky green hair! This costume was very simple to put together and only an ipad/ laptop and printer were necessary for the name badge.

Day of the Dead

This began with a pink princess dress and a Frozen cape, which I covered in faux flowers I had stashed at home and some little wooden skulls that I had bought a few years ago from Hobbycraft for Halloween. I then found a headband covered in flowers (from the days when I used to go to fancy dress parties) and added some little skull beads to it that I found on Amazon. The only equipment required for this transformation was a glue gun.

Freaky fairy

What was once a Tinkerbell fairy dress, became a fairy outfit with a difference. I covered the wings in cobwebs from last year’s Halloween decorations and covered the wings and the fairy dress in green (glow in the dark) spiders. I also made a matching wand, using a stick from the garden and some leftover ribbons, felt and jewels. You could always make the wand more sinister, depending on the age of your child and how spooky they want to go. Again, I used the glue gun for this creation, along with a knife for cutting out the star for the wand.

Hopefully this has given you a few ideas to get started with your Halloween transformations.

Tamsin Ryan offers more costume tips and ideas for Halloween games on her kids’ party ideas site at www.icecreamandjelly.com

Make a haunted house for Halloween!

We asked our friends at Art-K Art School (www.art-k.co.uk) for a wonderfully spooky creative project for the kids to make for Halloween and they have come up with this very scary, haunted house.

You will need:

ü Water colour paints, ü A4 and A5 pieces of card

Instructions:

ü Scissors

ü Black sharpie

ü Glue

Step 1: Draw the haunted house on card and use a black sharpie to outline it. Simplify it if your child is very young. Now paint in the outline.

Step 2: Fold an A4 piece of card in half horizontally. Create two flaps by cutting a three-sided panel either side of the fold. Bend the two flaps inwards.

Step 3: Copy and draw two pumpkins onto separate A5 pieces of card.

Step 5: Glue the painted pumpkins onto A5 pieces of card as shown.

Step 6: Draw and outline ghosts and tombstones on to the A4 piece of card. Find some ghosts on the internet to inspire your child. Then paint.

Step 7: Open up the A4 piece of card to see the step in the middle that bending the flaps inwards has created.

You now have your haunted house with pumpkins and ghosts!

andCutout keep

Step 4: Outline and paint the pumpkins.



Step 8: Glue the house onto this step and stick the card with the pumpkins in front of the house.

To find out more visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hampshire