Families Hampshire West Jana/Feb 24 PRINT issue

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Issue 98 January/February 2024 January/February 2024

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CONTENTS

Welcome

Contact us Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk 07789 882467 Sales Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk 07812 218331 Next issue: March/April Booking deadline: 2 February Printed by: Holbrooks Printers Ltd

In this issue 3-5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10-11. 12. 13. 14-15.

Clubs & classes Education news Beyond the school system Activities for babies & pre-schoolers Early Years New Year, New You Interview Family-friendly festivals What’s On

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

Happy New Year from all of us here at Families! We wish you health and happiness in 2024. If your goal is to work towards a healthier family this year, then remember, there’s twelve months ahead and lots of time to put your plans into action. We have a healthy idea for you to introduce to your family for each new month of 2024 in our New Year, New You feature. January and February can be dull and gloomy months to get through with the excitement of Christmas over and spring still many weeks away. So cheer the family up by planning something to look forward to later in the year. If fun for you is heading to a festival, check out our top choices in this issue. Despite the inevitable bad weather to come, we all know that our kids still need to get outside. But what happens if you don’t have rainy day gear? In this issue, we talk to CBeebies presenter, Gemma Hunt, about her role as the ambassador of The Waterproof and Wellies Project which plans to give every primary school in the UK ten sets of waterproof and wellies so all children can have fun outdoors. Finally, in this issue, we have National Geographic Science Kit bundles to giveaway! Apply for six inside. By doing so, you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Rebecca

Editor, Families Hampshire West © Families Hampshire West 2024. 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.

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Boost your child’s confidence in 2024 with a FREE Perform class The new year is a great time to start something new and Perform is offering every child a free trial class to help them shine this spring. With two brilliant new themes incorporating confidence-building fun, classes for children ages 4 to 7 will join a high-energy adventure to the Wild West while kids ages 7 to 12 will enjoy a dancefloor-filling adaptation of Snow White, in Killa Queen. Classes are packed with confidence-boosting games which focus on developing the 4 Cs - confidence, communication, coordination and concentration - using drama, dance and singing. At the end of each term, the children will take part in a showstopping final performance for family and friends so you can see the progress they’ve made! Classes are for all abilities with no previous experience required and children are welcome to join at any point in the term. Book a no-obligation FREE trial at www.perform.org.uk/try

More about Perform’s weekly classes Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s, designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try, email enquiries@perform.org.uk or call 020 7255 9120 to book a FREE trial class in one of the following venues: Chandlers Ford: Chandlers Ford Methodist Church, SO53 2GJ Ages 4-7, Monday at 4pm & Ages 7-12, Monday at 5pm Lymington: St Thomas Church Hall, SO41 9ND Ages 4-7, Monday at 4pm & Ages 7-12, Monday at 5pm Romsey: United Abbey Reform Church, SO51 8EL Ages 4-7, Tuesday at 4pm & Ages 7-12, Tuesday at 5pm Southampton: Highfield Church Centre, SO17 1RL Ages 4-7, Wednesday, 4pm & 5pm & Ages 7-12, Wednesday, 6pm Winchester: Holy Trinity Parish Church, SO23 8DG Ages 4-7, Saturday 9.30am and 11.15am, Monday 4pm & Ages 7-12, Saturday 2pm, Monday 5pm.

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Alternative sports for your child to try By Andrew Campbell Whether your child is bored with the usual options or simply not interested in the conventional after-school and weekend sport activities, you might be able to entice them to get active, develop a new interest and meet other like-minded kids by considering one of these more left-field sports. Archery can captivate children’s interest with its blend of focus, precision and historical allure. It provides a sense of accomplishment as kids master the art of hitting targets with arrows. The sport encourages discipline, patience and fine motor skills, promoting mental and physical development. Archery also instils confidence, teamwork and respect for safety. Soft archery is now available as a safe and fun way to introduce the sport to young ones.

Cheerleading is growing in popularity as an alternative sport with over eighty nine thousand involved at recreational, competitive and elite level. Requiring a unique combination of gymnastics, dance and acrobatic stunts, it fosters physical fitness, teamwork, discipline and confidence. Competitions and events are held regularly at venues across the country and you are likely to find a club not too far away.

More info and local clubs at www.startarchery.co.uk

More info at www.ukca.org.uk

Padel tennis is an enticing sport for children due to its accessibility and engaging nature. It’s usually played in doubles on a smaller court enclosed by mesh or glass walls, making it easy for kids to keep the ball in play. Padel combines elements of tennis and squash, emphasising hand-eye co-ordination, strategy and teamwork. Its social and active aspects make it a fun and appealing sport for children. More info and local clubs at www.lta.org.uk

Disc golf appeals to children due to its simplicity and accessibility. With just a frisbee, kids can enjoy outdoor fun, exercise and social interaction. It offers a sense of achievement, skill development and the opportunity to play in beautiful natural settings. Disc golf is inclusive, allowing kids of all ages and abilities to participate, making it an attractive and cost-effective choice. More info and local courses at www.discgolfuk.uk

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Street dancing is a freestyle dance form that emerged from urban culture and is great for a child who loves to get down and boogie but is not attracted to traditional dance styles. Whilst fantastic for encouraging self-expression, creativity and self-confidence, it also promotes physical fitness and flexibility while teaching rhythm and coordination. A local dance school is sure to offer classes or you will find a dedicated street dance school nearby.

Fencing is ideal for children who struggle with team sports. Combining physical activity with mental strategy and discipline, it also promotes agility, balance and co-ordination, all while teaching focus and quick decision-making. Fencing enhances self-confidence and sportsmanship through oneon-one combat. It’s safe and emphasises protective gear and rules. Additionally, the sport encourages a sense of chivalry and respect, offering valuable life lessons alongside the physical benefits. Local clubs at www.britishfencing.com

Parkour (or Freerunning) harnesses kids’ instinctive love of jumping and throwing themselves around. It enhances strength, agility and spatial awareness, instilling self-confidence. It’s an athletic discipline which focusses on moving through urban environments using acrobatic techniques like vaulting, climbing and jumping. But it’s also popular at indoor settings such as leisure centres, gym clubs and trampoline parks.

Futsal is an exciting, fastpaced form of football. It’s played in a smaller, confined space, making it easier for kids to get involved and actively participate. The emphasis on ball control, quick passing and teamwork help develop soccer skills while encouraging social interaction. Futsal’s reduced physical demand and emphasis on fun make it an attractive choice, fostering a love for the sport from an early age.

More info at www.parkour.uk

More info at www.englandfootball.com

Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s played on a smaller court with a low net. Pickleball is attractive to children because it’s easy to learn, offers immediate success and doesn’t require much physical strength. It fosters hand-eye co-ordination, social interaction, and physical activity. The sport’s adaptability and inclusive nature make it an appealing choice for children of various ages and skill levels. There are over two hundred and seventy pickleball courts in Britain. More info and local clubs at www.pickleballengland.org January/February 2024


CLUBS & CLASSES

Football fun with Little Kickers classes in Hampshire

Join a Stagecoach class in Southampton or Eastleigh 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.

Little Kickers gives children an introduction to sport by teaching high quality football skills in a friendly and pressure free environment. There are four different classes tailored specifically to the needs of children between 18 months and 8 years. Little Kickers want to give children a positive introduction to sport as a whole, not just football, so children are more likely to stay healthy and active throughout their lives. Little Kickers stimulates imagination and aids early development skills such as learning colours and numbers, following instructions and playing as a team.

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.

Classes are available in Totton, Romsey, Eastleigh, Winchester, Bitterne, Hedge End, Whiteley and Fareham.

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.

For more information, email hdarling@littlekickers.co.uk or call 07916854810, visit www.littlekickers.co.uk

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. SOU ad 1 (2).pdf

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Football fun for children aged 18 months to 7 years. Classes available in Southampton and the surrounding areas. To book or for more information call Hannah on 07916 854810 or hdarling@littlekickers.co.uk

www.littlekickers.co.uk

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Unlock your child’s potential Singing, dancing and acting classes forr 4 -18 year-olds Southampton 01962 771024 southampton@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/southampton

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Eastleigh 01962 771024 eastleigh@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/eastleigh Stagecoach Performing Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Performing Arts Limited.

January/February 2024

® Creative Courage For Life

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EDUCATION NEWS

The Gregg Prep School pupils achievements celebrated

Walhampton celebrates its 75th birthday

The Gregg Prep School believe in providing pupils with an interesting and challenging education that enables them to reach their true potential. Through the Pre-Senior Baccalaureate, focus is on learning around the development of values, skills, attitudes and behaviours that are needed for children to succeed and flourish in an ever-changing world.

This year marks 75 years since Walhampton first opened its doors to pupils; a milestone celebrated at its Anniversary Arts Festival last summer. Over 400 Walhampton families, local friends in the community and alumni enjoyed watching pupils perform around the School’s beautiful grounds and on an outdoor stage, celebrating this historic birthday together.

Small class sizes ensure more time is devoted to personalised teaching and supported individual learning, so children feel safe to take risks and try challenges that help them to progress. Pupils flourish thanks to being encouraged, recognised and celebrated in their achievements both academic and personal. The Gregg Prep pupils become more self-confident and are prepared for each step of their educational journey. Find out more at an Open Mornings on Wednesday 28 Feb or Thursday 25 April. Email registrar@thegreggschools.org. Find out more at www.thegreggschools.org

‘I am honoured to be leading the school into its 75th year,’ says Head Jonny Timms; ‘We are a Radically Traditional School which means we embrace our rich history and traditions, but are also forward-thinking in our innovative approach to education. We have much to celebrate at Walhampton and having enjoyed the Arts Festival in the summer, we are looking forward to bringing our community together again for our first Giving Weekend early next year. The aim of this is to raise funds for The Walhampton Trust Foundation so that more children can access a Walhampton education.’ Find out more at www.walhampton.com

Join the Adventure

Stroud School announces name change to KES Prep Stroud School is thrilled to announce a significant milestone in its journey. After ten years of a highly successful partnership with King Edward VI Senior School, Southampton, Stroud School is delighted to reveal its new name, King Edward VI Preparatory, from September 2024.

Open Mornings Wednesday 28th February Thursday 25th April registrar@thegreggschools.org 6

Families Hampshire West

By adopting the name King Edward VI Preparatory School will now share an identity with Hampshire’s esteemed senior school. This alignment will strengthen the sense of continuity and progression for children as they transition from the preparatory level to the senior level. It will also reinforce the school’s commitment to delivering an outstanding education and maintaining high standards of academic excellence and pastoral care whilst instilling a deep love of learning. The school is holding its next Open Event on Thursday 14 March, from 6-8pm. To book a place, call 01794 528360 or email registrar@stroud-kes.org.uk. Find out more at stroud.kes.school January/February 2024


EDUCATION

Beyond the school system By Ana Fábrega It’s a fact that the traditional school system doesn’t suit everyone, yet many parents aren’t in a position to take their children out of school. The good news is that there are some fabulous learning opportunities available outside of the school system, which can be used to complement school learning. Consider these: Self-directed learning communities. Programmes like Kubrio (www.kubrio.com) bring kids together to share interests and design their own curriculums. Over one hundred classes cover coding, game design, art, writing and entrepreneurship. Forest Schools. Forest School programmes (www.forestschoolassociation.org) put kids at the centre of learning, connect them with each other and nature and challenge them to take responsibility and make meaning for themselves. Team problem-solving. Synthesis School (www.synthesis. com) empowers kids to solve the world’s hardest problems. They compete in teams, debating ideas, testing tactics, communicating decisions, taking ownership and drawing out the best in each other. Project-based learning. Programmes like Arduino (www.arduino.cc) cover chemistry, physics, electronics, coding and more. They ship all the components to your door, with online training and support to allow kids to learn by doing. Online STEAM classes. Many schools struggle to provide enough opportunity to explore science, tech, engineering, art and maths (STEAM subjects). Platforms like Brilliant (www.brilliant.org), Skillshare (www.skillshare.com) and Khan Academy (www.khanacademy.org) offer amazing courses. Foster a love of reading. Let kids read freely and widely. Let them skim through books and dive deep into what interests them: poems, comic books, non-fiction, magazines, cookbooks or even the same book over and over. Choice is the secret recipe for fostering a love of reading. Once they develop this, they will be able to teach themselves anything. Alternative schools. If you are thinking of a different school, consider alternatives such as Montessori, Waldorf and Reggio Emilia. For specific alternative schools, research Sora Schools (www.soraschools.com), Higher Ground (www.higherground.

Award winning family shoe retailer

40 Bedford Place, Southampton SO15 2DG. Tel: 023 80 226542 www.wjfrenchandson.co.uk

January/February 2024

com) and Acton Academy (www.actonacademy.org). Microschools. Microschools are also wonderful options, like those available through Prenda (www.prenda.com) and other networks. To find a good one, look for mixed age groups, a childcentred curriculum and project-based learning. Ana Lorena Fábrega is a teacher, turned edupreneur and author of The Learning Game: Teaching Kids to Think for Themselves, Embrace Challenge, and Love Learning, available from www.bookshop.org

The Lindy Effect Lindy ideas refer to concepts or principles that have demonstrated resilience and longevity over time. The term ‘Lindy’ comes from the Lindy Effect, a concept introduced by Nassim Nicholas Taleb in his book Antifragile. In essence, it says that ideas age differently from people. The longer ideas have been around, the longer they’re likely to last. Each of the learning options explored above share common traits. Although each is unique, they all take Lindy ideas from the past and apply them to today in various ways. Lindy ideas stick around for a reason: they often work quite well and have proven themselves across generations. We should leverage wisdom from the past and adapt it for today. Although most traditional schools today do not follow Lindy ideas, there are an increasing number of alternative schools and educational programmes that do things differently. These can help parents of children for whom traditional education is not working to replace or supplement it with learning experiences that are grounded in Lindy ideas and updated for today.

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EARLY EARLYYEARS YEARS

Activities for babies & pre-schoolers BABY & TODDLER GROUPS Enjoy a play group with your baby or toddler, take part in activities together. Baby Play Hythe Library, SO45 6AQ Every Thu, 10-11am. Ages 0-1. FREE Baby Play Lymington Library, SO41 9BW Every Tue, 10-11am. FREE Baby Play Romsey Library, SO51 8DN Every Mon, 10-11.30am. FREE Bumps and Babies Family Hub Cutbush, SO18 2GF Mon, 9.30-11.30am. Bumps and Babies Family Hub Seashell, Weston SO19 9JQ Wed, 9.30-11.30am. Bumps and Babies Family Hub Blackberry, Thornhill SO19 6FH Fri, 9.30-11.30am. Rainbow Tots Thornhill Baptist Church, SO18 5TR Thu, 10am-12noon. £2 per child, 50p siblings. Bumps and Babies Pickles Coppice Family Hub, Southampton SO16 9QX Thu, 9.30-11.30am. Bumps and Babies The Ashby Centre, Shirley SO15 5QZ Mon, 9.30-11.30am. Bumps and Babies The Salvation Army, Shirley SO15 5LH Tue, 9.30-10.30am or 10.45-11.45am Suggested donation £1.50. Bumps and Babies Coffee Morning Winchester Theatre Royal Café, SO23 8SB Every Thu, 10.30am.

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Bumps and Babies Christ Church, Winchester, SO23 9SR Every Tue, 10am. Fireflies Baby & Toddler Group Bitterne Holy Saviour Church, SO19 7LW Tue, Thu, 9.30-11am, £1 per family. Peartree Tots Toddler Group Peartree Green United Reform Church, SO19 7GS Thu 10-11.30am, £1 per session. Little Lambs Baby & Toddler Group Colne Avenue Baptist Church, Redbridge SO16 9NX Wed, 10-11.30am. Mini Marvels St Mary’s Church Hall, Swaythling, SO18 2ST Wed, 10-11.30am. Term-time only. £1 per family. Sing & Sign Totton and Eling Community Centre, Totton SO40 3AP Mon, 10am. Ages 1-3. Little Bear Baby Signing The Hilt, Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh SO53 5NP Mon, various times. Ages 0-24mths. Laura’s Messy Play 1st Fair Oak (8th Eastleigh) Scout Group, Eastleigh, SO50 7AN Tue 10.30am Twyford Tots Twyford Parish Hall, Winchester SO21 1QY Every Wed, 10am-12noon. £2. Tots in Colden Common Colden Common Community Centre, SO21 1UU Every Fri, 10-11.30am. £2.50 per family. The Arc Baby & Toddler Group Hope Church, Winchester, SO23 8DQ Fri, 10-11.30am. £1.50 per family.

RHYME TIME Many libraries run weekly half hour fun and rhyme sessions for babies and toddlers under 5 and are FREE.

Bishops Waltham Library, SO32 1EE Every Wed, 10-11am. FREE

Alresford Library, SO24 9AQ Every Thu, 11.15-11.45am.

Eastleigh Library, SO50 5SF Every Tue, 11am-3pm. Ages 0-4. FREE Hedge End Library, SO30 4DY Every Tue, 2-3pm. FREE

Bishops Waltham Library, SO32 1EE Every Tue, 1.45-2.15pm.

Hythe Library, SO45 6AQ Every Thu, 10-11am. Ages 0-1. FREE

Chandler’s Ford Library, SO53 2LH Every Tue & Thu, 10.30-11am.

Lymington Library, SO41 9BW Every Mon, 1-3pm. FREE

Eastleigh Library, SO50 5SF Every Mon & Thu, 10.30-11am. Hedge End Library, SO30 4DY Every Mon & Thu, 10-10.30am. Hythe Library, SO45 6AQ Every Mon, 10.30-11am, Every Thu, 2-2.30pm. Lymington Library, SO41 9BW Every Thu, 2-2.30pm. Suggested donation £1. Romsey Library, SO51 8DN Every Thu, 11-11.30am, Fri, 2-2.30pm, Suggested donation £1. Totton Library, SO40 3RS Every Mon & Thu, 11-11.30am.

Netley Library, SO31 5DT Every Fri, 10.30am-12noon. Totton Library, SO40 3RS Every Mon, 2-3pm. FREE Woolston Methodist Church, SO19 2DU Tue, 10-11.30am.

STORY TIME Weekly stories and fun at libraries, usually for ages 2-5, most are FREE. Bishops Waltham Library, SO32 1EE Every Sat, 11-11.30am.

Winchester Library, SO23 8SB Every Thu, 10-1.30am & 11-11.30am.

Chandler’s Ford Library, SO53 2LH Every Mon, 10.30am.

STAY & PLAY

Eastleigh Library, SO50 5SF Every Tue, 10-11am. Ages 2-4.

Sessions include free-play, messy play, arts and crafts and story time and will help your child by; encouraging speech and language, sharing and turntaking and exploring new and exciting activities.

Hythe Library, SO45 6AQ Every Wed, 10.30-11am.

St Denys Church Centre, SO17 2ND Mon, 9.30-11.30am Term-time only. £1 suggested donation.

Netley Library, SO31 5DT Every Sat, 10-10.30am. Romsey Library, SO51 8DN Every Tue, 11-11.30am. Totton Library, SO40 3RS Every Tue, 11-11.30am. Winchester Library, SO23 8SB Every Tue & Sat, 11-11.40am.

January/February 2024


EARLY YEARS

Thriving not surviving: the toddler years By Heidi Skudder While the baby months pass by in a flurry of contact naps, back-to-back feeds and trying to work out when you will ever sleep again, the toddler years are definitely something to look forward to. Multiple naps a day are over, eating is on its way to being well established and you actually have time to get out and about between meal times. That said, the toddler stage has its own unique challenges which can be overwhelming. But don’t worry, it is possible to actually thrive during these years, not just survive. Here are my top tips and observations. Toddlers start to become more vocal and know their own minds, often refusing to engage in even the most basic daily chores: getting dressed, nappy changes - the list goes on. Prep in advance by talking them through everything you’ll be doing that day step by step, so that nothing takes them by surprise. Poor behaviour is always about communication and although toddler tantrums are considered a normal rite of passage, excessive tantrums and big feelings could indicate that they are trying to tell you something. This could be something as simple as hunger, needing a little more sleep or even a tummy ache that they can’t explain to you. Toddlers simply aren’t ‘naughty’ just for the sake of it. During a tantrum, try understanding and listening to how your toddler actually feels rather than telling them to stop crying or assuming that they are just being difficult. Often by identifying with the emotion and feeling, it can really help stop them in their tracks and deal with their feelings more easily.

wellies to the supermarket and those muddy footprints will be a distant memory! Toddler eating challenges. The ‘division of responsibility’ is a well researched model which is proven to successfully encourage healthy eating habits. The model is that while it is a parent or carer’s job to decide what each meal consists of, it is a toddler’s job to decide how much of it they want to eat. Just knowing that this model exists and is successful can save you from too much mealtime angst. By forcing a toddler to take one more bite or holding off on pudding until they eat more broccoli, you are simply making them eat when they don’t want to. Apart from unwelcome tantrums, this can also have long term knock on effects; primarily not being able to listen to what their body is actually telling them. By allowing your child to say when they have had enough and trusting in them, you are setting them up to not only have positive meal time associations but also an ability to trust in their body and the feelings associated with it. Heidi is a parenting coach. For online toddler courses including toddler behaviour, fussy eating and sleep, see her website at www.positivelyparenthood.com

For example, using the words: ‘Oh, you really wanted that ice cream didn’t you, because you love ice cream SO much. I totally understand,’ rather than: ‘stop crying’ is going to elicit a calmer response and help you both move through those big feelings more easily and in less time. The toddler years often bring phases of fussy eating and food refusal. Keep on top of mealtimes by exposing little ones to a wide range of foods, not giving second choices and recognising that appetites vary day to day. You decide what is on their plate and they decide how much they want to eat. Sleep is essential for a calmer journey throughout the toddler years. It’s often assumed that the sacred ‘lunch time nap’ can be dropped at two years of age but the reality is that most toddlers need this nap well into their third year, with some needing it until they go to school. It may sometimes feel like you’re in an uphill battle with your toddler to get out of the house each day. Remember that with time and by rationalising with them, things do get easier. Soon you’ll look back and miss the fight about not wearing their

Buying your child’s first pair of shoes

This is a big milestone when your child is turning from a baby to a toddler. As your child’s feet are not fully developed until they are teenagers, it is important to get shoes that fit properly to avoid foot health problems. Does my child need shoes when he is crawling? Professional advice is that barefoot is best, as this gives your child a chance to strengthen the muscles in their foot and feel and grip the floor underneath them for balance. Once they start crawling you can protect your baby’s feet from bumps and scrapes with properly fitted pre-walkers which should be light and flexible. When should I buy my baby their first pair of shoes? When your child is walking more than crawling, which is around 4-6 weeks from their first few steps. Shoes can be useful, especially if they need to walk outside and need protection. This can be any time between 9 and 18 months on average. W. J. French & Son, established in 1803, are an award-winning shoe shop. Their experienced fitters will ensure your child’s feet are properly measured and fitted with the most suitable shoe for their stage of development. They also take a polaroid photo as a keepsake to mark this special milestone. Find out more at www.wjfrenchandson.co.uk

January/February 2024

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NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

Twelve months to It’s the New Year! This is the perfect time for a reboot designed for the whole family. Get started February Grow more veg & herbs

January Eat less meat Veganuary takes place every January. Having started in the UK in 2014, it now has global traction. If going vegan is a step too far for your family, how about Meatless Mondays? Even reducing red meat by a small amount can improve heart health. Try a half-and-half approach; instead of using just minced beef in recipes, replace half with beans, lentils or mushrooms. It increases the amount of fibre in your diet.

It might be looking a little bare out there but the frostbitten days of winter are coming to an end. What better time to visit the garden centre, shake out the gardening gloves and push some seeds into the soil. Assigning individual pots to the kids might encourage them to get more involved in growing their own veggies and herbs - and eating them!

March Bake healthier snacks

April Take up a sport together Biscuits and cakes are often the easiest snacks to reach for after school. With forward planning though, we can all do a little better. Homemade snacks don’t have to look or taste too different from shop-bought ones; by just by adding less refined white flour and more fibre you can improve gut health over the course of a year. For biscuits, try a bit less flour and a few more oats. With cakes and traybakes, using wholewheat flour is a great way to introduce more fibre, antioxidants and protein, along with tonnes of important nutrients like B vitamins, iron, magnesium and zinc.

Finding an active challenge you can enjoy as a family, can be loads of fun and healthy. But finding something that works for every age is tricky. Ice skating and golf can be good levellers and appealing to older children. If nothing else comes to mind, swimming or cycling usually work for most; it’s all-round physical exercise and always seems to have an immediate and positive effect on appetite and sleep.

June Go dancing!

May Tackle anxiety At this time of year, school tests and exams can pile on extra pressure. Meditating regularly, even for a few minutes a day, can make a difference and there are lots of meditation apps designed for children, as well as adults. More effective than yoga, meditation is proven to reduce the reactivity of the brain in response to stress and a Harvard-based study in 2011 demonstrated that you can even reduce the size of the amygdala (the bit of the brain associated with the stress response) when you meditate for a longer period of time. 10 Families Hampshire West

The days are long and the sunset casts a rosy glow… well hopefully! The festival season has arrived and it’s time to embrace the midsummer madness and go dancing. The health benefits of dance are impressive; cardio, weight-loss, strength, agility and balance are just the start. To top it all off, dancing brings joy and is a natural form of stress relief. Throw in some choreography and you’ve even got a workout for your memory too.

January/February 2024


NEW YEAR, NEW YOU

a healthier family with our step-by-step guide and let every month take you closer to a happier, healthier, family life. August Drink more water

July Tech-free weekends Or, more realistically, just one day! As it gets brighter and sunnier, it’s much easier to come up with tempting outdoor alternatives and any reduction in screentime is likely to improve sleep and mental health. Consider device-free times or designated tech-free zones at home. Are you keeping to your own weekly or daily limits? Revisit the rules, especially with older kids and discuss what a healthy balance looks like. Visual timers help some children keep screentime under control.

Yawn, we know this, yet we are probably still not drinking enough. Let’s just recap how essential it is for our health. The blood is ninety percent water so good hydration basically effects every single organ and cell in the body, from heart to brain to skin. How about trying a different strategy for each family member? For one child, a new water bottle. For another…. deploying the dark art of parental bribery. For yourself, water infused with lemon instead of a coffee.

September Enrol in a new class

October The vitamin refresh It’s a new academic year and there is no need to limit the anticipation and thrill of a new start to just the children in the family! There’s also no need to spend a penny. Start by visiting your local council website to find out about free short adult education courses. Or you could check out the online learning platform backed by The Open University called Future Learn (www.futurelearn.com). Most of their courses are also free.

Perhaps you’ve dished out vitamin C to head off colds, tried some probiotics for gut health or have been taking Omega 3 to improve focus? The chances are you probably have some unfinished bottles lying around in a cupboard somewhere. October is a good time to sort through what you already have and set your priorities for the winter ahead. The NHS recommends all children under age 6 (who are not being fed formula) should have vitamins A, C and D as daily supplements. Vitamin D is particularly important as winter approaches, as we get less sunshine.

November Switch to sugar alternatives

December Family cooking day Adding more spices to our diets benefits us by replacing sweetness with flavour. Other sugar alternatives, like agave or stevia, convert to glucose more slowly, helping improve our energy and health over time. Date sugar is made from dehydrated dates, retaining more of the fibre and vitamins than standard refined sugar. Monk fruit is a natural sweetener made from a south east asian fruit. It’s increasingly available in health food shops and is many times sweeter than sugar, yet it has no calories or effect on blood sugar. January/February 2024

Help! It’s nearly Christmas again! This year, it might be a good idea to get some meals in the freezer before the holidays start and relatives descend. Dedicate a day to cooking as a family and let each member choose a healthy recipe. It’s great for teamwork and even better if you discover some new family favourites. Younger members can get to work on healthier versions of seasonal staples like mince pies or gingerbread men.

Families Hampshire West 11


INTERVIEW

Helping children embrace the great outdoors

Gemma Hunt, children’s storyteller and long-time presenter of CBeebies show Swashbuckle, tells Families about her role as ambassador for The Waterproof and Wellies Project for The Outdoor Guide Foundation (www.theoutdoorguidefoundation.org) and why she’s passionate about getting kids and families outside. Tell us about The Waterproof and Wellies Project? We’re looking to raise £6m to provide ten sets of waterproof jackets, trousers and wellies to the twenty thousand state primary schools in the UK. Unfortunately around thirty percent of children do not own their own wellies. So having these sets in schools enables them to play outside in all weathers without ruining their shoes! Why do you feel particularly passionate about this project? I long for children to enjoy the physical, mental and spiritual value of getting outdoors more. It’s so good for their appreciation of our great British countryside, wildlife and nature. I love to see my daughter play outside, climbing trees, investigating flowers and spotting insects, coming back with flushed cheeks and grubby knees! On occasion, we’ve ruined clothing or footwear as we haven’t had the right gear with us BUT we’ve been able to replace them. This isn’t possible for all families so to have the right outerwear to enjoy time outside together is essential. How do you think children’s experience of outdoor time today compares to yours as a child? I don’t think we get outside as much as we used to – there are so many inside distractions. It used to be a treat to run around outside, play games and let off steam. Now children seem to view it more as a punishment as they’d often prefer to stay indoors connected to electronics and Wi-Fi.

12 Families Hampshire West

Of course, we had more freedom to roam safely and I understand why we may not be so willing for our children to go out alone now but that is all the more reason to try and do so as a family.

support from businesses and individuals as we’re still a way off our target and there are more than three hundred schools on the waiting list who are desperate for the gear.

How much time do you spend outside with your family?

You can see how you can support us at The Outdoor Guide Foundation website at www.theoutdoorguidefoundation.org

Honestly, not as much as we should. We do walk to school or play in the garden every day and we like to take our daughter out on her bike. Luckily we live near the coast and great country parks like Betteshanger Park near Deal in Kent where we can walk, cycle and scoot. There’s also a great play area there and the most delicious café (I recommend the sweetcorn fritter burgers!). To motivate our daughter, we turn outside time into an adventure or give ourselves a purpose. Like going out to collect leaves or feathers for an art project or going on a litter pick. If we take her bike or scooter that usually stops the moans about her legs aching if we’ve walked too far! What advice would you give to families whose access to green spaces is limited? Make the most of the outdoor spaces you do have access to. Take outdoor games if there is no play area. If it’s rainy, put your waterproofs on and take a flask of hot chocolate and a big umbrella! What has The Waterproof and Wellies Project achieved so far? Since Covid, we have donated more than three thousand sets of waterproofs and wellies to UK schools. We need more

You’re also a writer. Tell us about your new book. My newest book is about helping children to express and deal with big feelings like anger, jealousy and frustration. I understand the power of imitative behaviour and wanted to write something that children could read (or have read to them) that would inspire them to better manage their behaviour. My favourite role model has been Jesus so I wanted to take some stories told by or about him and re-tell them from the perspective of a mixed race family like mine. My husband and daughter and my parents and I all appear in the stories. What motivated you to write it? I wanted to write a series of children’s books that represented our own mixed race family. I struggled to find good books for my daughter that depicted our family dynamic - so I wrote them! The first book is about encouraging children to be a good friend and is called See! Let’s Be A Good Friend; the newest one has five helpful short stories which explore emotions. It’s called See! Let’s Be ME and is available from www.bookshop.org To find out more and support the project, visit www.theoutdoorguidefoundation.org January/February 2024


FESTIVALS

Top family-friendly festivals for 2024 Time to plan ahead! The UK has loads of family-friendly festivals happening this year and, from music and comedy to food and drink, there’s really something for all ages. Some festivals offer plenty of activities for little ones to enjoy, as well as great music line-ups, whilst others are dedicated solely to family entertainment and activities. Here is our selection of some of the stand-out festivals with dates to help you plan.

Gone Wild Festival Powderham Castle, Exeter 22-24 August and Holkham Hall, Norfolk 8-11 August

Celebrating the great outdoors with fabulous music alongside family-friendly, outdoor activities for all ages. Where else can you push your mum down a 50m mud slide, learn new survival skills then dance the night away? Activities include kayaking, nerf battles, circus workshops, high ropes, tree-climbing, adventure art and more. www.gonewildfestival.com

Camp Bestival Lulworth Castle Dorset 25-28 July and Weston Park Shropshire 15-18 August

Victorious Festival Southsea, Portsmouth 23-25 August

Set on the stunning Southsea seafront, this festival not only features some of the biggest names of the UK music scene during its three day run, but it also has a great comedy line-up with some big names. A newly expanded Kids’ Arena offers face painting, zip wires, skate sessions and family activities, all of which are free. www.victoriousfestival.co.uk

This award-winning festival is known for its diverse line up of musical acts and its wide range of family-friendly activities and entertainment. In addition to music, the festival offers a variety of other attractions, such as comedy performances, theatre, circus acts, workshops, interactive art installations. and children’s activities. www.campbestival.net

Gloworm Festival Holme Pierpoint Country Park, Nottinghamshire 16-18 August

Just So Rode Hall, Cheshire 16-18 August This weekend-long camping festival aims to help families make memories together in the great outdoors whilst enjoying the very best music, theatre, circus, storytelling and much more. Child-friendly loos, baby change facilities, breastfeeding tent and even a bath time tent, offer families practical assistance, while attractions include an exhaustive range of activities and workshops for kids. www.justsofestival.org.uk

Standon Calling Standon Lordship, Hertfordshire 25-28 July

An independent boutique music and arts festival with big acts and emerging talent which features a whole area dedicated to entertaining babies, kids and teenagers during the daytime. It also offers on-site baby sitting for evenings, a swimming pool and dedicated family campsites only ten minutes from the car park. www.standon-calling.com

Deer Shed Festival Baldersby Park, North Yorkshire 26-29 July

Deer Shed is a three-day wonderland of music, arts, science and sport, set in beautiful North Yorkshire parkland. Choose from forest bathing, a circus masterclass, soft play, robotics, forensics, cinema and baby massage - there’s plenty of activities to keep the whole family entertained. www.deershedfestival.com

January/February 2024

Aimed at children ages 0 to 13, expect music, activities and arts all geared towards different age-groups. From well-known children’s artists and headline acts, through to a funfair, farmyard, facilities for families, meet-and-greets and places to play, every corner of this festival is an incredible adventure for all ages. www.glowormfestival.co.uk

WIN a family ticket to WIN Camp Bestival! One lucky family has the chance to score a family ticket to Camp Bestival. This four-day safe, fun, magical and adventurous festival for kids of all ages, takes place during the summer holidays in both Dorset and Shropshire. Multi award-winning and designed specifically for families, enjoy hundreds of activities from bushcraft, circus schools, sports and immersive theatre to incredible live acts and DJs, family raves, circus spectaculars, wellness, award-winning street food and cabaret. www.campbestival.net Apply at familiesmag.co.uk/go T&Cs: www.bit.ly/cmpbest Families Hampshire West 13


Your family guide to

What's On DIARY DATES Ongoing Treasure Trails Across Hampshire www.treasuretrails.co.uk A self-guided spy mission walking trail or treasure hunt inspired walk. Trails are 2 to 2.5 miles and take approximately two hours. Print a map at home or buy online. Ongoing ‘50 Things’ Activities The National Trust: Mottisfont, Hinton Ampner & The Vyne www.nationaltrust.org.uk Why not try some of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges? There’s something for every young explorer to do. Throughout Jan & Feb Trainmaster www.trainmaster.co.uk Train lovers come and visit for an hour of play. Refreshments available. See online for details. Sat 20 Jan Winchester Sun 21 Eastleigh Mon 12 & Tue 13 Southampton Sat 24 Feb Winchester Until Wed 31 Jan Winter Garden Bird Explorer Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA www.hants.gov.uk Self-guided family fun. Come for a winter stomp and bird watch, look for winter wildlife at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Normal garden admission applies. Activity sheet £1. Until Sat 24 Feb Doctor Who’s Futuristic Whomobile, Bessie and Original Dalek Beaulieu National Motor Museum, New Forest, SO42 7ZN www.beaulieu.co.uk From the sleek and stylish Bessie to the futuristic Whomobile and a menacing Dalek, the National Motor Museum’s new collection marks the 60th anniversary of the British sci-fi series, Doctor Who. Fri 26 to Sun 28 Jan RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch Get your family involved in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch and help monitor bird life in the UK. Simply count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony or in your local park for one hour between 26 and 28 Jan. Get your FREE guide online.

Sat 27 Jan & Sat 24 Feb Mini Monets Art Club Southampton City Art Gallery SO14 7LY www.southamptoncityartgallery. com experiment with different art styles, techniques and materials in a fun and accessible way. A great way to encourage your child’s creativity without making a mess at home. 10-11am. Ages up to 7. Sat 27 Jan to Mon 19 Feb Zero Degrees Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ www.winchestersciencecentre.org Enter The Hibernation Station learn all about what native species are up to during winter. Together with all the usual Science Centre fun all this is included free with general admission. 9.30am-5pm. Thu 1 to Thu 29 Feb Biggest Garden Explorer Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA www.hants.gov.uk Spot the biggest and best. Look out for different textures, colours and shapes. Self-guided tour. £1. 10am-4pm. Sat 10 Feb Creativity at The Arc The Arc, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.hampshireculture.org.uk Expect a range of FREE activities planned for children aged 0 to teen throughout the day. Plus, FREE activities and special offers at several other venues across the city centre as part of Children of Winchester Festival. All ages. Sat 10 Feb Side Quests: Bready, Set, Dough! 878 AD, Winchester, SO23 8QY www.hampshireculture.org.uk The townsfolk need help in preparing a feast fit for King Alfred himself. But with tensions increasing and the fate of history once again in the balance, will you be able prove yourself and rise to the challenge or will you just make a meal of it? Pre-booking advised. Ages 8+. Sat 10 to Sun 18 Feb Half Term Fun Westgate Museum Winchester, SO23 9AP www.hampshireculture.org.uk Try a trail, dress up in armour, period costumes and do a brassrubbing. And visit the roof for that

Please say you saw these listings in Families Hampshire West Magazine.

14 Families Hampshire West

All listings correct at the time of going to print. Please check with the venue before visiting to ensure events are still going ahead and the venues are open.

great view of Winchester. Included in museum admission. Mon 12 Feb World War 2 Spies & Ciphers Tudor House, Southampton, SO14 2AD www.tudorhouseandgarden.com You have been signed up by the Special Operations Executive, Britain’s wartime spy corps. Practise code-breaking, discover wartime secrets and find out more about Southampton during the Second World War. 10.30am or 1pm. Ages 6+. Mon 12 to Wed 14 Feb Half Term Southampton Culture Club SeaCity Museum, Southampton, SO14 7FY www.seacitymuseum.co.uk A day of investigation, imagination and discovery for children who love being creative and learning through fun activities. Led by the experienced cultural services learning team, at Kids’ Club children will explore the past, experience the museum and gallery and make really cool things! Different theme each day. 9am-4pm. Ages 7-12. Mon 12 & Wed 14 Feb Create Your Own Nature Bookmark The Arc, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.hampshireculture.org.uk Young ones will love crafting their own unique nature-themed bookmarks using pressed flowers and leaves. All materials are provided. £8 per child. Pre-booking required. Ages 3-8. Tue 13 Feb Dance and Crafts Forest Arts Centre, New Milton BH25 6DS www.hampshireculture.org.uk A relaxed dance workshop for families, price includes a showing of the film, The Wizard of Oz. £6/£8. Pre-booking required. Ages 6+. Tue 13 & Fri 16 Feb Make Your Own Eco-Bubble Wand The Arc, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.hampshireculture.org.uk A relaxing and absorbing pastime, create an eco-friendly toy that will

while away hours creating giant, festival-sized bubbles at home. £8 per child. Pre-booking required. Ages 7-12. Wed 14 Feb Creative Camps: Valentines Forest Arts Centre, New Milton BH25 6DS www.hampshireculture.org.uk Enjoy a morning of crafts with Creative Practitioner Emily around the theme of Valentines Day. Get messy and creative with a variety of materials and take your creation home with you. £10/£8. Pre-booking required. Ages 6+. Thu 15 Feb Play in a Day Forest Arts Centre, New Milton BH25 6DS www.hampshireculture.org.uk Mystery, magic, imagination and buckets of fun await as we delve into the magic of storytelling in this drama workshop day. £30. Prebooking required. Ages 6-13. Thu 15 Feb Family Archaeology Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey SO51 0QA www.hants.gov.uk Be an archaeologist and visit the purpose-built trench in the woods to find hidden treasures from ages past. 10am–12.30pm. Ages 4+. Fri 16 & Sat 17 Feb Anglo-Saxon Takeover Winchester City Museum, SO23 9ES www.hampshireculture.org.uk For two days, the museum is being taken over by Anglo-Saxons who will be on hand to tell you about what Saxon life was like and talk about some of the fascinating Anglo-Saxon objects in the museum collection. All ages. 10am4.30pm. Thu 25 Feb Can Bears Ski? The Arc, Winchester, SO23 8SB www.hampshireculture.org.uk Based on the book by poet Raymond Antrobus, Ted Hughes award-winner, who draws on his own experience as a deaf child in a hearing world. Stunning illustrations, puppetry and music. Ages 3+.

Don’t forget to sign up for our digital magazine for more interactive content at familiesmagazine.co.uk/go January/February 2024


WHAT’S ON CHILDREN’S THEATRE

The Amazing Bubble Man

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

yellow brick road to the merry old land of Oz. Ages 6+.

Tue 13 Feb The Mighty Kids Beatbox Comedy Show World-class beatboxing! Hilarious jokes! Loads of Tomfoolery, Katefoolery and whatever your name is foolery with the best beatbox/comedy combo in town. 2pm. Ages 4+.

Thu 15 to Sat 17 Feb Cirque: The Greatest Show Award-winning, smash-hit circus musical that is fun for all the family. Enjoy a truly wondrous journey as a monochrome life, bursts joyously into kaleidoscopic colour. An allstar cast, the very best of musical theatre, mesmerising aerialists and circus stars, a charming tale with an astonishing twist – enter the extraordinary world of Cirque. Ages 3+.

Thu 15 Feb Pop Divas Live The UK’s number one pop concert experience meaning you can sing and dance along to all your favourite pop stars! 2pm. All ages.

Tue 20 to Sun 25 Feb Shrek the Musical Get ready to leave your troubles far far away and embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, love and fun. Ages 5+.

MAST Mayflower Studios, Southampton SO14 7DU www.mayflowerstudios.org.uk Sat 17 Feb The Amazing Bubble Man This show combines comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. 11.30am & 2pm. Ages 3+. Sat 10 & Sun 11 Feb Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out Join Peppa, along with her family and friends as they go to the zoo and also the beach for a special party- it’s going to be an exciting and fun packed day. Packed full of songs, dance and muddy puddles, Peppa Pig’s Fun Day Out is a perfect introduction to theatre. 10am, 1pm & 4pm.

Tue 13 to Thu 15 Feb Pinocchio In this adaptation of Pinocchio expect the classic elements of the story – a poor woodcarver, the tell-tale growing nose, the dream of becoming a real boy – combined with Stuff and Nonsense’s hallmark hilarity, skilled puppetry, original music, fantastic staging, outstanding performers and extraordinary physical tricks. 10.30am & 1.30pm. Ages 3+. The Point, Eastleigh SO50 9DE www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk Sat 10 Feb Dinosaur Adventure Live: Trouble on Volcano Island Join the brave Rangers for another action-packed Dinosaur Adventure. Meet the incredible Triceratops, the cheeky Spinosaurus, our cute baby dinos and the gigantic T-Rex as we follow in their huge footprints and journey across the island. This amazing, immersive and interactive show is guaranteed to be an

unforgettable adventure for the whole family. 11am, 2pm. All ages. Theatre Royal Winchester, SO23 8SB www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

BOOKING NOW

Sun 11 Feb The Amazing Bubble Man This show combines comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble tricks to keep everyone mesmerized. 2pm. Ages 3+. The Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE www.mayflower.org.uk/whats-on Tue 16 to Sun 21 Jan The Wizard of Oz Direct from The London Palladium, the sensational new production of one of the world’s most beloved musicals comes to Southampton. Starring The Vivienne as The Wicked Witch of The West. Join Dorothy, Toto and friends on an unforgettable adventure down the

Thu 23 May to Sun 16 Jun Wicked Book tickets now for this award-winning musical. Wicked will be on at The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton. 2pm & 7.30pm. Accessible performances also available. See the website for details. Ages 7+. www.mayflower.org.uk

Come out of hibernation this February half term

Award-winning musical Wicked flies to Southampton

It’s hibernation season but the fun doesn’t stop at Winchester Science Centre this winter. Between Saturday 27 January and Monday 19 February, there’ll be all the usual Science Centre fun, plus even more to excite all ages with the return of Zero Degrees – and it’s all included with admission.

‘One of the most successful musicals of all time’ (BBC News), Wicked has been casting its magical spell around the world for two decades.

In The Hibernation Station families will learn all about what native species are up to during winter. And, for those feeling brave, there’ll be a chance to step outside and try some hibernation den-building. Back inside there’s a brand-new action-packed live science show, Test the Water, that will use exciting experiments to delve into the science of water temperatures. Plus, there’s two floors of interactive exhibits, huge ‘don’t try this at home demos’ and lots more! For more information and to book tickets visit www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Based on the acclaimed novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked imagines a beguiling backstory and future possibilities to the lives of L. Frank Baum’s beloved characters from ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ and reveals the decisions and events that shape the destinies of two unlikely university friends on their journey to becoming Glinda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. This award-winning musical flies back to The Mayflower Theatre from Thursday 23 May to Sunday 16 June, complete with all the spectacle and magic that make this production such an unforgettable and unmissable experience. To book your tickets visit www.mayflower.org.uk

January/February 2024

Families Hampshire West 15


Create Your Story with Stroud

Open Evening Thursday 14 March 6.00pm - 8.00pm

For more information please visit stroud.kes.school or call 01794 513231

We encourage children to grow their passions and realise their dreams, learning important skills and values in a joyful community that gives children the space to be children. Our teachers support and prepare our pupils to soar and be ready for whatever comes next in their future.

16 Families Hampshire West

Start your future with Walhampton Join us at our Open Morning: 15th March 2024 Register at: www.walhampton.com Pre-Prep | Prep | Boarding

January/February 2024


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