Families Hampshire West Magazine March-April 2016

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Issue 51: March/ April 2016

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Clubs & classes for pre-schoolers Local party directory Spring days out

March/ April 2016

WIN! Family tickets to Paultons Park and Marwell Zoo

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

HMS VICTORY has never looked this good See the world through heroes’ eyes, part of an all-new visitor experience.

Book online and save 20% visit historicdockyard.co.uk

attractions – one ticket

HMS Victory I The Mary Rose I HMS Warrior 1860 National Museum of the Royal Navy I Action Stations I Boathouse 4 I HMS M.33 Harbour Tours I Royal Navy Submarine Museum I Explosion I Royal Marines Museum

#maketime for heroes 2

Hampshire West Magazine

Editor: Rebecca Carr 07789 882467 rebecca@familieshampshirewest.co.uk www.familieshampshirewest.co.uk Advertising: Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk

Contents

Next issue: May/ June 2016 Booking deadline: 1 April 2016 20, 000 copies distributed per issue

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Printed by Bishops Contributors Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

Emma Oliver is a journalist who has worked for various magazines

and websites, mainly covering travel and parenting. She is also a mum to two young girls. When she’s not off gadding she can be found blogging- WritingLifeAsItIs.blogspot.co.uk

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four

books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ and ‘‎How to Unplug Your Child’ (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

News & views How to boost your child’s numeracy & literacy School open days Age appropriate parties Local party directory Clubs & classes for pre-schoolers Easter activities Spring days out What’s on Holiday camps @Familieshants /Familieshampshirewest

© Families Hampshire West 2016

Disclaimer: Families Hampshire West Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire West Magazine are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

EMBRACE CREATIVITY

Acting, singing and dance classes for 4 - 18 year olds.

Find out more and start your child’s journey today

March/ April 2016

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HEDGE END 02380 465006 hedgeend@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/hedegeend

WINCHESTER 01794 390601 winchester@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/winchester

TOTTON 02380 422488 totton@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/totton

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

3

News & Views

provide nutritious school meals for our children and the government for avoiding legislation to cut down on sugar in food.

However he took on even more of a giant when he criticized McDonald’s for using meat suitable for animals in its burgers.

One of the ingredients in hamburgers from the worldwide chain in the US is a processed food type that Oliver calls ‘pink slime.’ He was shocked when he discovered that ammonium hydroxide was being used to convert fatty beef offcuts – the kind usually suitable only for dog food – into a ‘beef filler’ for the burgers.

Brain Tumour Research Wear a Hat Day – 24 March 2016 If you’ve not already saved the day, save it now! Wear A Hat Day is a fun-filled, annual brain tumour awareness and fund raising event helping to support research.

The organiser, Brain Tumour Research, is asking families and children and schools across the UK to put Thursday 24th March in their diaries and don a hat to support the cause.

Involving families and school children in the campaign is poignant, given that brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40.

Children have lost parents, family members and teachers, and in many classrooms there remains a tragic reminder of a child whose life has been lost or damaged by this cruel cancer.

Schools, nurseries, organisations and individuals can all find out how to register and take part at www.wearahatday.org

Jamie Oliver in Victory over McDonald’s Celebrity Chef has claimed he has forced the burger giant to change its recipe. Jamie Oliver is no stranger to a controversial but well-meaning campaign. He has frequently lambasted the food industry for failing to

Though the filler is not used in the UK, Oliver has denounced the process on his show, Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution.

“Basically, we’re taking a product that would be sold at the cheapest form for dogs and after this process we can give it to humans,” he explained.

The burger chain has now removed the beef filler from its burger patties.

Inter-STAARS Study Inter-STAARS is an NHS approved study investigating the benefits of an early intervention for infants at risk of developing ADHD. Symptoms of ADHD include: interrupting others, difficulty staying still and fidgeting. This exciting research project is led by researchers at the University of Southampton and Birkbeck, University of London. It is a home-based intervention designed to improve attention skills in infants and is completed over twelve weeks.

We are looking for infants to take part that are under 12 months old and that have a brother, sister or parent with ADHD-type symptoms.

For further details, or to take part, please contact us on: 02380 592655 or email: inter-staars@soton.ac.uk

Breastfeeding Support Group La Leche League Southampton

Facebook “f” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f” Logo

CMYK / .eps

www.LLLSouthampton.org.uk

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Hampshire West Magazine

The countdown to Camp Bestival 2016 is well and truly underway. Their ninth festiholiday jamboree is on the launch pad and they’re all set to blast off into a intergalactic theme - Outer Space!

The Camp Bestival crew have been travelling through the universe in search of the very best space-based entertainment to thrill and enthral one and all when we head in to Outer Space this July 28-31 at Lulworth Castle, Dorset. Entertainment includes: Fatboy Slim, Tears for Fears, Jess Glynne, Aliens Love Underpants, Dick and Dom, Mr Tumble and much more.

For more details and to view all the entertainment details and ticket information visit: www.campbestival.net

Half of parents in the dark about sugar As the ‘war on sugar’ debate rages on and the WHO calls for a sugar tax, a recent survey of 1,000 British parents reveals that families are more confused than ever.

The report by makers of natural fruit bar Fruit Heroes, revealed that although 51% of British parents say they actively look for ‘no added sugar’ in products, they struggle to identify the different sugars found in food. Parents are also confused about the difference between natural sugar, (such as fructose) in fruit and vegetables and artificial sugars, (such as glucose and dextrose) often added to sweets and fizzy drinks and linked to obesity and diabetes.

Mixed reports and labelling were found to be adding to the confusion, with 50% polled revealing that they don’t know how much sugar is too much to feed their child.For more facts visit: www.wsro.org/AboutSugar/

FactsaboutSugar.aspx

Mondays 10am-12pm (term time only) St James’ Road Methodist Church St James’ Road, Shirley Southampton, SO15 5HE

Attention all space personnel, cosmic explorers, astronauts and little astronutters… prepare for blast off at Camp Bestival this year!

Saturday 14 May 2016

Woodlands Community College Harefield, Southampton SO18 5FW 10:15am - 12pm (members 10am) £1.50 per adult in aid of NCT charity

www.nct.org.uk/southampton

PLEASE EXCUSE THE UNUSUAL APPROACH! A successful international company, operating in the Health and Nutrition Industry, is looking for openminded, positive people to work part-time or full-time, from home, without compromising your current career or commitments. If you work in the Health and Fitness Industry, or have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or feel you would like a balanced and flexible lifestyle then we would like to hear from you.

Call Hesione on 07794127732 hesione.waugh@yahoo.co.uk

News & Views

Local Breastfeeding Support Group La Leche League Southampton is a friendly support and social group for pregnant women and breastfeeding mums. The group is run by trained breastfeeding counsellors who can answer breastfeeding related questions and provides a place for breastfeeding mums to meet up and chat. Snacks and toys are provided for little ones. The group meets Mondays (term time only) 10am-12pm at St James’ Road Methodist Church in Shirley, Southampton.

Love thy neighbourhood Restaurant firm Faucet Inn recently opened Neighbourhood in Southampton’s new Cultural Quarter in Above Bar Street. Specializing in all-day dining with a focus on meats cooked on the rotisserie and Robata grill and serving cask ales, Czech beer, Krušovice and premium wine.

The menu offers specialties of rotisserie-roasted chicken and Robata-cooked seafood and steaks alongside marinated ribs and a selection of burgers all served with fries, slaw and green salad.

Small plates which can be a starter included spicy mac ‘n’ cheese, grilled sardines, barbecue pork hash and Cockney caviar – smoked aubergine, sourdough and pickled red cabbage. Prices range from £6 to £22.

Children are equally well catered for with their own dedicated menu with a choice of Mac n cheese, chicken or beef burgers, followed by ice cream and a drink ranging from £8 - £12 and are provided with colouring crayons and activity sheets to keep them occupied. To read our full review visit: www.familieshampshirewest.co.uk If you visit in March and April you can receive 20% discount off your meal. Simply take the coupon below with you.

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5

Be Ready for World Book Day

How to boost your child’s literacy and numeracy

by Liat Hughes Joshi Literacy and numeracy are central to your child’s learning in primary school and will underpin many of the subjects they’ll cover during their secondary education. They are of course crucial to later life too.

Whether they’re already acing their algebra or still struggling with basic sums, here are some ideas on how to give these key skills a boost.

A little extra learning at home can work wonders…but don’t go overboard!

Realistically, it isn’t always possible for teaching staff in busy classrooms of 30 pupils to provide the one-on-one attention children benefit from – perhaps looking at improving handwriting or listening to reading daily. By sitting with your child and working on specific areas, you can make a huge difference to their attainment. Keep it sensible though – even just ten or fifteen minutes a day for Key Stage 1 children can have an impact, yet still leaves hours and hours for Lego building, climbing trees or playing with friends.

Find out about the methods their school uses to ensure consistency If you want to do some work at home, it will help your son or daughter greatly if the methods you use are consistent with those they’re being taught at school – otherwise you can do more harm than good by confusing them.

Reading and aspects of numeracy are both typically taught quite differently to when most of us were children, so do attend any curriculum information evenings the school holds, or ask their teacher for more information about methods.

Employ tech to your advantage There are some brilliant educational apps and websites out there with masses of kid appeal.

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Hampshire West Magazine

Try to find ones which align with the National Curriculum (or at least use British English to avoid conflict with what’s done at school).

Many of the best apps have an in-built system of rewards and some even provide parents with progress reports.

[Link: https://www.familiesonline.co.uk/ locations/national/education-childcare/ education-and-schools/eight-of-the-besteducational-apps-for-primary-school-children]

Encourage reading Reading opens the door to almost endless learning and enjoyment. Some children are naturally enthused by books, others need more nudging to get the reading bug. Firstly, encourage any reading at all – be it comics, magazines, the back of the cereal packet – without worrying about what they are reading.

Also try and home in on your child’s interests and give them books that work with these – reluctant readers might gain confidence with non-fiction relating to their hobbies, or a football-mad child might enjoy some sporty tales and then decide fiction is for them.

Bedtime stories are a crucial opportunity to snuggle up discussing books together. They’re still beneficial even once children can read independently - parents of older kids could take on a more challenging classic together, taking it in turns to read a page before talking about what’s going on.

Incorporate ‘stealth learning’ into everyday activities Sneak some maths and literacy into their day-to-day life and you can improve their skills without it feeling like schoolwork. Adding up the cost of the shopping, dividing the bill in a restaurant, playing Monopoly or snakes and ladders, budgeting for that much-longed for Christmas present or helping with cooking are all brilliant but subtle numeracy activities.

For literacy, writing shopping lists, sending a postcard or email to the grandparents, or finding a pen pal might all help.

Liz Walker, Founder of Reading Chest explains World Book Day 2016 is on Thursday 3 March. It is a day to celebrate books and get children enthused about reading. Children who read for pleasure are much more likely to be successful in all areas of their education than those who don’t. World Book Day could be the inspiration that your child needs to read the one great book that leads him to a lifetime of reading for pleasure. So why not embrace World Book Day 2016 and make the most of all its events including dressing up.

For reading advice and more information on books for children learning to read, visit the website: www.readingchest.co.uk **** READER OFFER **** Families readers can use the discount code FAMILIES to get £5 off their first month’s membership.

How to get involved in World Book Day World Book Day is a celebration of authors, illustrators, books and (most importantly) it’s a celebration of reading. In fact, it’s the biggest celebration of its kind.

Visit worldbookday.com/resources to download a resource pack which includes lesson plans, activity sheets, discussion guides and more for Nursery, primary or secondary level.

Education news

Government announces an end to judging schools on GCSE results From 2017, schools will not be judged and ranked on their raw GCSE results but will instead be measured by a broader range of criteria across eight subjects.

The government says this will toughen standards.

Currently, if fewer than 40% of a school’s pupils get five GCSEs at A* to C grades, the school is considered to be “underperforming.” The number of those schools has remained stable in the UK at 312.

Head teachers have complained that basing a school’s performance on GCSE results alone was unfair and unrepresentative, as it did not take into account factors such as a school’s intake. Disadvantaged children often achieved poorer results, with just 36% of children who receive the pupil premium attaining five good GCSEs. Gender differences are apparent, with 60% of girls receiving good GCSE results compared to just 50% of boys.

The new ranking system will see schools judged on a system called Progress 8.

This replaces the five or more GCSEs

Spring School Open Days Thursday 9th March The Gregg School Southampton SO18 2GF

benchmark with a system that studies progress made by students between Key Stage 2 tests (taken at the end of primary school) and performance in eight subjects at the end of secondary school.

Malcolm Trobe of the Association of School and College Leaders said: “Measuring schools on GCSE attainment does not take into account the fact that children are at different points when they start their secondary education. Schools may be doing a fantastic job in helping struggling pupils make great progress but judging them on GCSE results does not reflect this because it is based on the grades achieved rather than the progress made.

“This particularly penalises schools in challenging areas. It can unfairly stigmatise schools which are actually doing superb work in difficult circumstances and this can be damaging to the morale of school leaders, staff, pupils, parents and communities,” he said.

Friday 11th March Prince’s Mead School Kings Worthy, Winchester SO21 1AN Open afternoon 1.30pm – 4pm Saturday 12th March Moyles Court School Ringwood, BH24 3NF Open Day from 10am – 12.30pm Tuesday 15th March Hampshire Collegiate School Romsey, SO51 6ZE Whole School 9am – 12 noon Thursday 17th March Moyles Court School Ringwood, BH24 3NF Taster morning Saturday 19th March Forres Sandle Manor Fordingbridge, SP6 1NS Open morning 10am – 12 noon Tuesday 26th April Hampshire Collegiate School Romsey, SO51 6ZE Prep School & Nursery open morning 8.30am - 11.30am Correct at the time of going to press.

Beyond Expectations…

NURSERY, PREP & SENIOR SCHOOL CO-ED, 2–18, DAY & BOARDING

Wednesday 2nd March: Nursery & Reception Open Morning, 8:30–11:30 Tuesday 15th March: Whole School Open Morning, 9:00–12:00 Tuesday 26th April: Prep School & Nursery Open Morning, 8:30–11:30 Hampshire Collegiate School, Embley Park, Hampshire SO51 6ZE Families March 2016.indd March/ April 2016

1

Tel:

01794 515737 (Nursery & Prep) 01794 512206 (Senior School)

email: enquiries@hampshirecs.org.uk www.hampshirecs.org.uk

04/02/2016 14:04:54 Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

7

It's

y Patritm e

Birthday Party Pizazz entertainer is out of your price bracket, ask a friend or relative to take on the task and plan out some games and activities beforehand. There are other ideas you could choose if you want something more unusual; pony riding, a bouncy castle or in the summer a water party will be fun.

Pass the parcel remains a firm favourite for this age group but other games such as pin the tail on the donkey and a Piñata will be a hit.

8-11 Years Often what a September-born child does for a birthday sets the precedent for the rest of the class, so be aware of what’s popular! Book a hall or have it at home depending on your numbers and bravado, or you could find an active party at a local sports centre. Perhaps they could all try trampolining or rock climbing. You might want to take them to a cinema showing, or visit a restaurant that will teach them to make pizza or chocolate shapes. How about a summer water party in the garden?

If you do have the party at home, some ideas for games for this age group include the Chocolate Game (roll a six, dress up in hat, scarf and gloves, eat the chocolate with a knife and fork, Chubby Bunnies (stuff one more marshmallow in each time and try saying that without actually eating them) and The Flour Game (cut shards off the flour cake until the coin balanced on top falls. The person responsible retrieves it using only their mouth). Feed them on simple pizza and finish with a make-your-own ice cream sundae – you’ll need ice cream plus sauces and toppings.

How to make your parties age appropriate

By Emma Oliver It’s difficult to know how to keep kids entertained at parties.

It’s even more difficult to know how to change the format of the party as kids get older. At what age do face paints and musical statues no longer cut it? For which age group would you book an entertainer? And when do you move from a party to an outing?

Teen As always with teenagers, it is all about communication. Sometimes this is easier said than done. Some will want to do what all their friends are doing, while others would like to do something entirely different.

Activities outdoors such as paint balling or Go Ape, the cinema, bowling and theatre can offer this.

When it comes to birthday parties, we’ve learnt over the years that a can-do attitude and great planning is what’s needed.

Try to ensure that you don’t give yourself too much of a nightmare.

When they are young, you may want to restrict how many friends your child invites (though of course often we end up inviting the whole class, because that’s what everyone else does) and you’ll want to be sensible about how long it lasts; an hour is plenty for pre-schoolers and those in the first couple of years of Infant school.

Pre-school With small children, the key is to keep things simple. It’s fine to have the party at home and you can get creative – why not try dressing up, a treasure hunt, face painting and simple games. If you choose pass the parcel, don’t feel you have to include a prize in every layer (though if you do, make sure each child gets one!) so why not return to the oldfashioned idea of a forfeit for each child – they could sing their favourite song or make animal sounds. Then you can have one prize at the end. When it’s time for tea, put out sandwiches and savoury food first, keeping the sweet treats out of sight until after they have eaten. Unless you love baking, do buy the cake as everyone will love it, especially when covered in birthday candles. At the party’s close, give each guest a small gift or party bag with a piece of the cake in it. For the birthday child, it’s a good idea to put their presents to one side as guests bring them and open them after everyone has gone. You can even save some for the following days.

4-7 Years An entertainer comes into their own with this age group as they will keep the kids amused and busy until it’s time for tea. If a professional

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Hampshire West Magazine

Birthday party fun down on the farm A memorable day for children and grown-ups alike at our historic farmyard attraction.

Contact us for details 01489 787055

PART PACK Y AVAIL AGE ABLE *Spe cia for me l rate mbers

www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm www.hants.gov.uk

It's

Local Party Ideas and directory Bouncy Castle and Children’s Party Mascot Hire from Blake Entertainment Blake Entertainment is proud to announce castles, sumo suits and a gladiator ring are now available for rental. They are fully insured and tested ready for indoor or outdoor events and themed kids parties and add a new strength to Blake Entertainments already massive list of available entertainment There are bouncy castles for all occasions with mascot visits from Dave the minion or Olaf or even Minnie Mouse. The sumo suits are for adults and children alike. They are very competitive on prices and are always ready to help to make your party the best. They cover all of Hampshire, for details call Chris on 07731 989095, email bookings@blakeentertainment or visit the website www.blakeentertainment.co.uk. Like them on Facebook page to receive a 20% discount on your next hire.

ACTIVE PARTIES Little Kickers 07896 009651 tdarling@littlekickers.co.uk Football training birthday parties available across Hampshire.

Perform Parties 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk High energy fun with games and imaginative play. For ages 4 - 12 years. Venues across Hampshire.

With prices starting from £110 for a two hour party for 60 minutes free play and challenges, 30 minutes for party food (supplied by you) and 30 minutes of games, Block Party Events offer excellent value and are all lead by a fully DBS checked and trained play leader.

Frankies Fun Factory Romsey, SO51 0HR 01794 514242 www.frankiesfunfactory.co.uk Adventure soft play and party centre.

Themed Children’s Parties & Mascot Hire The Gruffalo w Peppa Pig w Tigger w Minions Mickey & Minnie Mouse and many more.

Plus w Sumo Suits & Disco Dome Hire w All Year Bouncy Castle Hire w Karaoke with over 50,000 songs available Call us on 0800 643 3095 Email: bookings@blakeentertainment.co.uk www.blakeentertainment.co.uk March/ April 2016

time

ABG Mobile Disco Across Hampshire 07867 430535 abgmobiledisco@hotmail.com Blake Entertainment Across Hampshire 07731 989095 www.blakeentertainment.co.uk Mascot and Bouncy castle hire.

PARTY VENUE IDEAS Flemming Park Leisure Centre Eastleigh, SO50 9NL 02380 684800 placesforpeopleleisure.org

For more information call 07872039113 email info@blockpartyevents.co.uk or visit their website: www.blockpartyevents.co.uk

PARTY ENTERTAINERS

Rugbytots 0345 313 3244 southhants@rugbytots.co.uk Play and games based parties across Hampshire.

Master Builder Lego® birthday parties with Block Party Events

Children will have use of masses of Lego® for free-building, at least 15 complete sets with custom made Master Builder jackets. They also provide invites, stickers and certificates for each child and the birthday boy or girl receives their own Play Bag. They are also able to arrange a Lego® themed cake, Lego® themed party bags, mini-figure making and much more.

Party

Gambado Eastleigh, SO50 5SF 02380 111065 www.gambado.com Soft play parties for ages 1 - 12 years.

Block Party Events

07872039113 www.blockpartyevents.co.uk Master Builder Lego® birthday parties.

Froggle Parties

Across Hampshire 0208 617 9070 www.froggleparties.com Party activities, magicians, clowns, bubble parties and more.

Jungle Jeans Southampton, SO15 1GZ 02380 638120 www.junglejeans.co.uk Soft play and themed parties.

Manor Farm Country Park Bursledon, SO31 1BH 01489 787055 www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm Farm activity sessions and animal encounters including rabbits, chicks, ducklings and sheep.

Moxies Magical Faces Across Hampshire 07882 779274 facepaintersouthampton.co.uk Face painting parties and party planner.

Mid-Hants Railway Watercress Line Alresford, SO24 9JG 01962 733810 www.watercressline.co.uk Hire your own private train.

The Funky Playbus

Play Shack Hedge End, SO30 2FX 01489 790794 www.play-shack.co.uk Soft play with themed rooms.

The Fun Shack Southampton 02380 433438 www.thefunshack.co.uk Balloon displays and sweets.

Across Hampshire 07942 982888 www.funkyplaybus.co.uk Funky play bus available to hire.

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

9

FOOTBALL AND RUGBY

Little ones can learn how to kick and control the ball, use gross motor skills and understand teamwork. Mini rugby is always gentle and does not involve contact and the skills and size of the pitches are suited to the kids’ ages. Look for a local club which may allow kids to go into more serious games as they grow.

Clubs and classes

Local clubs and classes for pre-schoolers

By Sally J. Hall

Little Kickers 07896 009651 tdarling@littlekickers.co.uk New Forest Soccer 07881 100 007 info@newforestsoccer.co.uk

We take a look at the kinds of activities you can find near you to keep your pre-schooler amused.

MUSIC

From nursery rhyme sing-alongs in the local park or café to learning a simple instrument, teaching a very young child to love music will give them a lifelong gift. Look for independent classes or have a look at some local classes Movin Monkeez Allison@movinmonkeez.co.uk Jo Jingles New Forest Zara Wells 07539 376935 Jiggy Wrigglers 07823 441444 www.jiggywrigglers.com

ARTS AND CRAFTS

There are lots of places to drop in to get involved in crafting with your kids. They can learn skills such as painting, gluing, cutting out and sticking and of course the art of adding glitter!

Why not try your local Messy Monsters.

Messy Monsters 07873 201350 tracy@messymonsters.co.uk Messy Monsters offer messy, sensory and art sessions in a safe, social and a stress free environment.

Both children and their carers can enjoy fun and educational messy activities together. All without the worry of the mess and cleaning up. The weekly sessions are themed with different activities to choose from that the children will enjoy exploring and experimenting with. Sessions are available in Chandlers Ford and Romsey on Mondays, Hedge End and Bishopstoke on Thursdays and Chandlers Ford on Friday. They run Saturday sessions and offer birthday party packages too.

For more details call Tracy on 07873 201350.

AMPFIELD RIDING STABLES

Rugbytots 0345 313 3244 southhants@rugbytots.co.uk Rugbytots makes your child’s development more fun. Their fun, structured play sessions take children on a journey of sporting imagination with engaging and energetic coaches supporting them every step of the way whilst teaching how to catch, pass, kick, run with the ball and play as part of a team.

Their motto is “make it more fun” which they do by delivering their specifically designed programme for each age group with energy, enthusiasm and excitement. This creates an atmosphere in the class that is totally unique and engaging for parents and children alike.

Call Hogie on 0345 313 3244 for more details.

AS SEEN ON

MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS

Join us for our special Easter Egg Hunt

Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment.

For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 3244

www.ampfieldridingstables.com

southhants@rugbytots.co.uk

Riding instruction for 3 years + with small class sizes Pony Parties and Own a Pony Day Expert tuition for beginners and advanced riders Call 01794 367570 or email: enquiries@ampfieldridingstables.co.uk Lower Farm, Lower Farm Lane, Ampfield, Hants SO51 9DP

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Hampshire West Magazine

rugbytots.co.uk

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

Clubs & classes

HORSE RIDING

GYMNASTICS

Indoor gym activities are good for rainy days and help with flexibility and strength.

Look for classes suited for very young kids that show them how to roll, jump and use gym equipment in a safe and controlled environment.

SWIMMING

Ampfield Riding Stables 01794-367570 www.ampfieldridingstables.com Ampfield Riding Stables offer riding instruction from ages 3+. Their ponies and horses, combined with their enthusiastic instructors aim to provide you with expert tuition and a lot of fun.

Their riding lessons are for small groups with no more than 4 - 6 people.

All groups are made up of similar standards.

They provide training from complete beginners to advanced in flatwork and showjumping and have a purpose built lunge pen for lunge lessons and the very nervous. They are based in Ampfield near Romsey and are easy accessible from Winchester, Southampton, Chandlers Ford and Eastleigh. They are an Equestrian Center that are happy to give their pupils all the time they need on quiet horses or ponies or to give them the chance to progress onto good showjumping horses and ponies when ready.

Gerda Weston has an excellent reputation in helping riders to reach their full potential. Gerda has worked with the Royal Family’s horses before starting her teaching career in 1972.

Once her daughter Anna Beck started competing in 1986 Gerda devoted her time in training Anna to the highest level.

Pony Parties and own a pony day’s are also available For more information call 01794-367570 or visit their website.

Learning to swim is a great and useful life skill and it seems that the younger you start, the less likely it is that your child will be nervous in water. Many local leisure centres run mother and baby swim sessions where you can start to teach your child how to gain confidence in the water. Why not try: Puddle Ducks 01202 674676 www.puddleducks.com Swiminis at Riverpark Leisure Centre 01962 848700 riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk

THEATRE It’s never too early to start treading the boards and there are lots of drama and acting clubs for even quite small kids. They teach self expression, working within a group and confidence.

Stagecoach runs classes across Hamsphire, visit www.stagecoach.co.uk Academy Studios 01794 515129 www.academy-studios.com Acting Up actingupinfo@gmail.com www.actinguphants.wix.com/drama

LANGUAGES

Children from bi-lingual families seem to cope well with two languages from a very early age. Even if you and your partner both speak English, you may want your child to learn a second language to stand them in good stead for their later education and if you also have family or a holiday home in another country. Find a small group or oneto-one sessions where your child has fun and plays games in a second language.

DANCE

Teaching grace, strength and movement; dancing is a great form of exercise and can be enjoyed from a young age. Look for a class that is not too formal at first so that the emphasis is on play and enjoyment. If your child shows promise, they can go on to take Royal Academy of Dance certificates later on. Why not try: DM Dance 02380 554192 info@dmdancecentre.co.uk Does your little one love to dance and move to music?

Dinky Movers is a pre school mummy and me class designed with that in mind.

With an emphasis on fun the little ones learn to explore, rhythm, co-ordination and balance in a structured class setting. For children aged 18 months to 4 years they explore a range of different dance moves and genres. At the end of each class they receive a sticker and at the end of the term a certificate.

For more information and to book a class call 02380 554192

Perform 020 7255 9120 www.perform.org.uk Stagecoach Hedge End 02380 465006 Stagecoach Southampton & Eastleigh 01962 771024 Stagecoach Winchester 01794 390601 Stagecoach Totton 02380 423488

Messy Monsters Play Sessions for babies, toddlers & Preschoolers

Classes run at Chandlers Ford, Romsey, Bishopstoke, Hedge End include sensory, art and messy play.

Birthday parties and childminders also catered for.

To book a place email tracy@messymonsters.co.uk

Does Your Little One Love to Dance and Listen to Music?

Dance classes specifically designed for pre school children to encourage their coordination, rhythm and balance Mondays 10.30-11.15am, Mummy can join in or sit and watch (18months - 4 years), £4.50 pay as you go.

Weekly classes run term time only

www.dmdancecentre.co.uk

Tel: 02380 554192 Email: hayley@dmdancecentre.co.uk 10 Spring Crescent, Portswood, Southampton, SO17 2GA March/ April 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

11

Easter Fun The Great Easter Egg Hunt Keep up this fun tradition with your children this Easter

By Sally J. Hall Easter means different things to different people. But for the kids it is quite simple; it means time off school and plenty of Easter eggs! So why not organise an Easter Egg Hunt with your children and their friends?

Here’s how to make this year’s Easter Egg Hunt one that will be talked about for years to come.

Don't forget!

Easter Sunday on 27th March

What is an Easter Egg Hunt?

The day before Easter Sunday, the grown-ups hide eggs and other treats around the house. Then the kids have to find them on Easter morning. For many parents, the planning is almost as much fun as watching the kids finding the eggs and you can make it as simple or as complex as you like.

First, the shopping list • • •

Buy a few eggs per child. Look for packs that are cheaper than individual eggs.

Find holders for the children to collect the eggs in such as paper bags, baskets plastic bowls or flower pots.

Perhaps buy some small gifts as well as eggs - books or colouring pens.

Make a list of where you have hidden all the eggs.

Make it better

Make it more fun with activities along the way. Tell an Easter themed story, or play some games.

Give us a clue

Add an extra dimension with clues. You could also make a treasure map for them to follow. Think of a theme; numbered pictures of bunnies, pirates looking for buried treasure, fairies looking for magic eggs.

A number of local attractions including The National Trust and the Country Parks have Easter Egg Hunts and activities, so check out those local to you. Have a look at our What’s on guide on page 16 - 18.

Easter Crafts Easter Egg Bunny

1.

Take a freshly cooked and cooled hard-boiled egg.

Some nice ideas to do the day before, especially if it’s raining

2.

Where can you do an Easter Egg hunt?

Cut shapes for the bunny’s feet and hands out of the yellow felt; then cut larger ears shapes out of yellow felt and smaller ones from the white.

3.

Stick the feet on the base of the egg, making sure the egg can stand upright on them.

4.

Stick the white ears onto the yellow and when they have dried a little, stick them on to the rear of where the face will be.

5.

Finally, draw a rabbit’s face on the front of the egg with the pens and decorate with patterns as your child likes.

1.

Get the kids to paint sheets of paper plain grey or plain pink

2.

Help your children (using childsafe scissors) to cut out larger grey ears shapes and smaller pink ear shapes from the painted paper.

3.

Be sure to leave a longer bit of paper at the bottom of the grey shapes

4.

Stick the pink inners on the grey ears

5.

Next, attach the shapes to the Alice band with the glue and leave to dry.

•

Get the children to decorate the holders they will collect the eggs in.

Decorate paper bags, line baskets with straw and tie on a ribbon and add a label with the child’s name on it to the pots.

At home, inside the house. Great if the weather’s bad. Lock rooms that you don’t want the children in.

In the garden. If it’s fine, this is ideal. Put the eggs out in the morning.

Why not make bunny footprints from flour or talc near each hidden egg?

In the woods. If you live near some open space, gather the kids in one area until the adults have planted the eggs and clues. Then let them loose!

You’ll need: ü ü ü ü

1 hard-boiled egg Yellow and white felt PVA glue Felt tips pens in yellow, orange and black

Some ground rules

So that the children all feel they have been treated fairly and for safety, it’s important to have some rules.

• • • • • •

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When they have collected three eggs, they must come back to ‘base’ before going off again.

Give the kids clear boundaries that they must not stray outside. If you’re outdoors, place small kids with grown-ups or older children for safety.

Help kids get a fair share by collecting different colour eggs each – wrap them in coloured paper. Make those for the small kids easier to spot.

Get older children to help younger ones.

Don’t allow the kids to eat the eggs as they find them – they have to bring them all back to base.

Once the game is over, allow them to eat one or two and then the rest should be taken home.

Hampshire West Magazine

Bunny Ears

You’ll need: ü White cardboard ü Grey and pink paint ü Scissors ü PVA glue ü An Alice band

- Many sizes, width fittings and styles - Friendly and knowledgeable service - Onsite Workshop -

40 Bedford Place, Southampton, SO15 2DG www.wjfrenchandson.co.uk 023 8022 6542 March/ April 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

13

Events and activities

Spring days out WIN

Paultons Park

Fami ly ticke ts

Ower, SO51 6Al Tel: 02380 814455

Join Paultons Family Theme Park this Easter and enjoy a great value family day out with over 60 wonderful rides and attractions including big rides, small rides, play areas, entertainments and a collection of exotic birds and animals all set within 140 acres of the beautiful New Forest National Park. Paultons is home to Peppa Pig World, with 7 amazing Peppa-themed rides!

New for 2016! Visit our state of the art 4D cinema on Show Street and watch ‘The Lost World 4D’, an immersive pre-historic adventure that comes to life before your very eyes.

Discounted tickets and official short break packages are available at paultonspark.co.uk

WIN! A family ticket to Paultons Park for 2 adults and 2 children to enjoy this summer Enter online at familieshampshirewest.co.uk/competitions by 30 June 2016. For full t&c’s see our website.

Longdown Activity Farm Ashurst, SO40 7EH

Fun Easter Trail 25 - 28 March What better place to celebrate Easter than at the Farm surrounded by chicks, lambs and Easter Bunnies? Join in with the fabulous Longdown Egg trail, which is suitable for the whole family. Using clues, search for the clutches of eggs in their special nests hidden around the Farm. Find all the nests and eggs then get a little yummy chocolate treat at the end of the trail.

For older children and adults, keep a look out for the very special golden eggs: ten will be hidden around the Farm at the beginning of each day. There are no clues and they are very hard to find so an ‘eggstra’ special prize will be given to those who are fortunate enough to find one.

Especially on Easter Sunday only, any children arriving in their own Easter bonnet will be charged a special concessionary rate of just £5 each (under 3s are free). Not available with any other offer.

Free!

FUN FOR ALL THE FAM

Fri 25t h - Mon 28t h Mar ch 00 EASTER Sunday Only. Just £5.

Entry FOR ANY CHILD WEARING THEIR OWN EASTER BONNET*

www.longdownfarm.co.uk

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Hampshire West Magazine

Winchester SO23 9BH Tel: 01962 870057

Winchester City Mill has stood at the heart of the historic city of Winchester – the capital of Kind Alfred’s Wessex - since Saxon times. With a history of over 1000 years, Winchester City Mill is also the oldest working watermill in the country.

25 - 28 March Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt 10am – 4pm, This Easter, pick up a map and join in the giant egg hunt around this 17th-century working corn mill; if you can solve the riddles you’ll receive a delicious Cadbury chocolate gift. Normal admission plus £2 per hunt.

Royal Victoria Country Park Southampton SO31 5GA Tel: 023 8045 5157

The Royal Victoria Country Park is a country park in Netley, Hampshire, England, by the shores of Southampton Water. It comprises 200 acres of mature woodland and grassy parkland, as well as a small shingle beach.

25 March – 10 April Easter Trail- Charlie the Lost Chick Join Charlie on his adventures around the Park. Help him find his mum and you will get a prize. £2 per trail. 10am - 3.30pm.

-

PLUS: Hands-on farm activities run throughout Easter and the school holidays. 10am - 5pm.

Indoor and outdoor play areas.

Off A35 • Ashurst • New Forest Tel. 023 8029 2837

Activities include: Abseiling, Archery, Bush Craft, Climbing Tower, Fencing, High Ropes, Ladder Challenge, Low Ropes, Monkey Climb, Outdoor Cooking, Pond Dipping, Tunnelling and Zip Line.

New Forest

FA I R

Why not visit our Shopping Pavilion and enjoy the variety of stalls on offer.

Foxlease Clay Hill, Lyndhurst, Hampshire SO43 7DE

For event details & much more click onto:

* Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer

Winchester City Mill

A great fun day out for the whole family

UN DE R

3s Are

EASTER EGG TRAILILY!S

Running alongside the Easter fun (and then throughout the school holidays) will be a full schedule of activities each day including bottle-feeding the kid goats and calves, meeting the pigs and handfeeding the ducks. Children (and adults too!) can collect real eggs newly laid by the chickens at the farm, hold fluffy yellow chicks and cuddle baby bunnies. Visit www.longdownfarm.co.uk for more information.

26, 27, 28 MARCH 2016,10am - 4pm For more information follow us:- www.newforestspringfair.co.uk FSW

New Forest Easter Fair

@newparkspring

Adults £5 Children £2

Events and activities

Mottisfont

Romsey SO51 0LP Tel: 01794 340757

Don’t forget Mothers Day on Sunday 6th March.

25 March – 10 April Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt 10am – 5pm Pick up an Easter hunt sheet, choc-full of brain teasers and craft activities, complete the challenges with the family, and earn yourself a delicious Cadbury treat. Normal admission plus £2 per hunt.

Beaulieu Motor Museum Brockenhurst SO42 7ZN Tel: 01590 612345

Beaulieu is an award winning family visitor attraction at the heart of the New Forest National Park operated by Beaulieu Enterprises Ltd. There are over 800 years of heritage to be seen on the Beaulieu Estate, which has been in the ownership of the Montagu family for over four centuries.

25 March – 10 April Mad Hatter Tea Party 10am – 5pm Meet the Easter Bunny during Easter weekend with lots of themed activities.

Exbury Gardens Exbury, SO45 1AZ 023 8089 1203

25-28 March Easter at Exbury Gardens All the colours and scents of spring combine with Easter treats and activities to make a wonderful day out here at Exbury.

Throughout Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Sunday and Monday there will be special train trips on the steam railway where younger children can spot Easter bunnies and other animals in the woods on the journey through the gardens. The Easter Bunny will also be making an appearance on the train station with a basket full of goodies to give out so keep your eyes peeled for him!

There is a new Easter Trail to follow where children are encouraged to find their way through different parts of the garden and there will also be a special colouring competition hosted in Mr Eddy’s Tea Rooms with the chance to win a family Season Ticket to the gardens for 2016.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Portsmouth , PO1 3LJ Tel: 023 9283 9766

For the first time since 1928, the world’s most celebrated warship, HMS Victory, situated in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, is undergoing her biggest change. A major reinterpretation of her visitor route through the ship will enable visitors to follow in the footsteps of Nelson, its most famous Admiral. This will finish with the aftermath of the ferocious Battle of Trafalgar, where Nelson breathed his last breath.

The new visitor route through Victory will provide access to areas never available to the visiting public before. Visitors will be able to see more of Victory than ever before, and what they do see will be more accurate than at any point in the past century.

Visit www.historicdockyard.co.uk for more details March/ April 2016

Marwell Zoo

Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1JY Tel: 01962 777407

WIN

Fami ly ticke ts

A visit to Marwell Zoo, near Winchester in Hampshire, is a chance to get close to the wonders of the natural world and play a big part in helping to save them. Take part in their egg-citing Wild Egg Hunt over the Easter weekend, meet the Easter Bunny and collect your free chocolate egg.

25 March - 10 April 2016 Wild Egg Hunt and Big Bird Bonanza Marwell’s Big Bird Bonanza continues throughout the Easter holiday, creating egg-tastic fun for all the family. What’s more, their newest and biggest ever exhibit, Wild Explorers, is now open! Home to rhinos, zebra and oryx, you’ll awaken your inner explorer and begin your adventure as you experience the African Wilderness first hand.

WIN! A family ticket to Marwell Zoo for 2 adults and 2 children to enjoy this summer Enter online at familieshampshirewest.co.uk/competitions by 30 June 2016. For full t&c’s see our website.

Mid Hants Watercress Line Alresford SO24 9JG Tel: 01962 733810

Visit the Watercress Line and immerse yourself in living history.

Travel our beautiful line or just relax and soak up the atmosphere of their period stations. Whether you are taking a trip down memory lane or creating new ones, it’s the perfect way to unwind and experience the nostalgic sights, sounds and smells of steam travel from a bygone age.

25 March - 3 April Day Out With Thomas Thomas & Friends return to the Watercress Line for more family fun! Shake hands with the Fat Controller, meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, take part in Thomas themed activities and ride the big steams trains all day! Free Thomas sticker and certificate for every child. Free activities, bouncy slide, tea cup ride, children’ entertainer and Thomas tattoos! Free rides with Thomas, Toad and Diesel. It’s a great value family day out, not to be missed.

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

15

Day out with Thomas at The Watercress Line

What’s on

Your guide to family events this March and April Before setting out please check details with the venue in case they have changed since we have gone to print ..and don’t forget to tell them you saw them in Families Hampshire West Magazine.

The Nuffield Theatre

LOCAL THEATRE 4 – 6 March Jacqueline Wilson’s Hetty Feather Mayflower Theatre Box Office: 02380 711811 From best-selling author Jacqueline Wilson, the tale of plucky Hetty Feather is brought thrillingly to life on stage in this Olivier Award nominated production, direct from a sell-out West End season.

Recommended for age 7yrs +. Tickets £19 - £22.50.

5 March Tom Thumb Nuffield Theatre Box office: 023 8067 1771 This epic tale of the smallest hero in the world is told with superb puppetry, music and fantastic

design. Celebrating nature, with sensory play and participation, children are encouraged to explore their local natural environments, with music to sing along to and stepping-stones to follow Tom Thumb’s adventure after the show.

Suitable for 4-9 year olds. Tickets are £6.

12 March Flyaway Katie Nuffield Theatre Box office: 023 8067 1771 Katie is all alone and feeling grey.

The birds in the picture on her wall look so colourful-if only Katie could be as bright as them, who knows what might happen? The show is bursting with colour, movement and surprises, with puppets of varying scales acting the story. Suitable for ages 2-7 years. £6.

12 March Orion and the Dark The Berry Theatre Box office: 023 8065 2333 Orion is scared of more or less everything. He’s terrified of wasps and monsters, afraid of sheds and storms, panicked by spiders and fearful of heights but there is one thing that scares him more than anything else…The DARK! Join Orion on an adventure as he faces his biggest fear and finds out it’s friendly. Suitable for ages 3+.

10 March The Legends of Sir Bevis The Berry Theatre Box Office: 023 8065 2333 The Legends of Sir Bevis tells the story of Southampton’s local legend Bevis of Hampton. An evening of adventure and excitement, featuring a terrible dragon, a fearsome giant, a noble knight and the bold and brave princess who wins his heart. Suitable for those aged 5+, tickets £4.

20 March Bear Behaving Badly Mayflower Theatre Box Office: 02380 711811 Get ready for chaos and calamity as the hilarious CBBC show Bear Behaving Badly takes to the stage in its first ever-nationwide live tour.

Tickets £16.

26 March & 30 April Saturday Story Time The Berry Theatre Box Office: 023 8065 2333 Musical storytellers will whisk you off to faraway lands with their enchanting tales, silly songs and lively games: a forest full of fun in 45 minutes! Each session ends with interactive playtime, where everyone becomes part of the story. 10.30am, call 023 8065 2333 to book. Suitable for ages 3-7 years. Tickets are £3.

30 March – 3 April David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny Mayflower Theatre Box Office: 02380 711811 The world premiere of David Walliams’ Gangsta Granny is coming to Southampton, staged by the Birmingham Stage Company, the

16

Hampshire West Magazine

acclaimed producers of Horrible Histories. Tickets £19.50-£21.50.

31 March-1 April The Emperor’s New Clothes The Berry Theatre Box Office: 023 8065 2333 Stuff and Nonsense present a new romp through a classic, eccentric tale, telling the story of an Emperor who loves clothes more than anything. But despite a wardrobe the size of Paris he hasn’t got a stitch to wear. Suitable for ages 3+, tickets £6-£8.

5 April C-12 Dance Theatre Theatre Royal Winchester Box Office: 01962 840 440 An entertaining story of a fight to save a library from being closed. Five performers manipulate the set and surroundings to create an innovative piece of dance theatre. 7pm, Tickets £13 or a Family £43.

8-9 April The Secret Garden The Berry Youth Theatre Box Office: 023 8065 2333 When sullen Mary Lennox finds herself transported from vibrant India to the gloomy, winding corridors of Misselthwaite Manor she is forbidden from exploring. But can the secret behind a haunting wailing noise and a garden as wild as her imagination help Mary to step out of the shadows? 2pm & 7.30pm.

Suitable for ages 5+. Tickets £6/£8.

15-16 April Goldilocks and The 3 Bears Nuffield Theatre Box office: 023 8067 1771 They only went out for a stroll... to let the food cool down. Ten minutes, tops. But when the three bears got home the house was a mess and Baby Bear’s porridge had vanished completely! And that was just the beginning! Suitable for ages 3+.

Tickets are £12.

16 April The Ugly Duckling Nuffield Theatre Box office: 023 8067 1771 Meet a host of colourful characters, as they run the troubled duckling out

What’s on of the farmyard into a cold, lonely wilderness. Journey through the seasons as the hapless creature finds his way in a hostile world. Set on the banks of a magical river, brilliant storytelling, fantastic puppets and a delightful musical score make this a fabulous show for little ones and their families. Suitable for ages 3+.

Tickets are £6.

23 –24 April Peppa Pig’s Surprise Theatre Royal Winchester Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in a brand new live stage show, Peppa Pig’s Surprise. Enjoy fun, games and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show with new songs and new life size puppets, Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all preschoolers. 10am, 1pm & 4pm, Tickets £18/Family £64. Box office: 01962 840 440

DIARY DATES 5 - 6 March Flowers for Mother’s Day Manor Farm Country Park Children can join the posy making craft activity in the farmhouse, in addition to all the usual farm activities. Farm admission applies.

8, 9, 10, 22, 23 and 24 March Little Foresters Itchen Valley Country Park

Woodland groups for preschoolers age 2+ with their parents. Play games, take part in seasonal activities, build dens, cook over campfires and read stories. Activities are repeated on each day in the same week but are different week to week.

Booking is essential on 023 8068 3790 and costs £4.50 per child.

11 March & 22 April Chatterbooks Winchester Discovery Centre Book club for 8-11 year olds. 4 – 5pm. Free event but booking is essential, call 01962 873603.

12 & 19 March NCT Family Saturday Group The Salvation Army Centre, Hedge End, SO30 2GL Come along for some Saturday morning fun! Toys, crafts and activities for little ones and their grown-ups too. Enjoy a hot drink, biscuit and a natter while the kids play. Every other Saturday 10.30-midday. Suggested donation £1.50.

13 March Family Sunday: How the Koala Learnt to Hug Winchester Discovery Centre Adapted from the best selling book

by Steven Lee and written especially for parents to enjoy with their children. How The Koala Learnt To Hug is a charming tale about the

In partnership with

magic of family and the importance of a nice warm hug! Suitable for ages 3+. Call 01962 873603 to book.

13 March Cobweb Spin – MG Classic Car Day Sir Harold Hillier Gardens 10am – 2pm Join Hillier Gardens as classic and sport cars from across the south coast dust off the winter cobwebs and head for the Gardens for one day only. MG Owners from far and wide will be proudly displaying their beautiful classics* and Golden Oldies. Children’s activities will be available. *This is a club event and therefore Hilliers cannot guarantee the attendance of any make or model of car.

20 March Family Sundays: Bec and Tom’s Awesome Laundry Winchester Discovery Centre Join the daft duo on a journey of friendship, courage and persistence in this critically acclaimed family comedy show. 11.30am, £7.50 or four tickets for £24. Call 01962 873603 to book.

24 March The Owl’s Lesson-Story Trail Royal Victoria Country Park 10am-11am A short walk for pre-school children with a craft activity,

drink and biscuit. Meet at the shop. An adult must accompany all children. Booking is essential as places are limited, call: 023 8045 5157. £4 per child.

25 – 26 March Easter Egg Dyeing Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Decorate an egg using dyes, wax crayons and your imagination. Drop in sessions from 1pm – 4pm and last admission 3.30pm. An adult must accompany children. £1.50 per child (Normal Garden admission applies).

25-28 March Easter Weekend The Animal Centre Sparsholt College A fun family weekend with lots of activities including an Easter trail and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny and real life chicks. 10am 4pm (last admission is at 3.00pm) Adults: £5, Children (3-16):£3.50, family ticket (2 adults + 2 children): £15 under 3’s are free.

27 March Easter Sunday Lunch Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Enjoy a superb two-course (£17.50) or three course (£22.50) meal in the splendor of Jermyn’s House, the 18th century manor house and former home of Sir Harold. Price

Home of Thomas & FriendsTM toys

Join Thomas & FriendsTM at a heritage Railway near you.

Experience a ride on a real steam engine and take part in Thomas-themed activities.

MID HANTS RAILWAY ‘WATERCRESS LINE’ Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9JG

www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk Day Out With ThomasTM Thomas the Tank EngineTM. Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. © 2016 Gullane (Thomas) Limited. Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, Thomas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) Limited. © 2016 HIT Entertainment Limited.

March/ April 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

17

What’s on includes admission to the Gardens.

From 12 noon. Booking is essential, call 01794 369319 29 March Minecraft Blocks Southampton City Art Gallery If you are brilliant at building worlds online you will love making (and then modeling with) your own 3D minecraft blocks. Make and take home your very own screen shot.

Mooshrooms, mobs, creepers and castles… just like in Minecraft, the possibilities are endless. From 10am - 1pm, cost is £12, Call 023 8083 4536 to pre-book. Suitable for age 8-13yrs.

29 March Family Treasure Chests Tudor House and Garden Pieces of eight, golden goblets, jewels and gems, sparkling diamonds, rubies and pearls, and of course a chest to hide them in. Make a treasure chest to fill with your loot.

(Age 5yrs+) 10.30am-12.30pm or 1-3pm £5, to pre-book 0238083 4536.

tricks to keep everyone mesmerized, along with shrieks of laughter and gasps of amazement from all ages.

Sat 2pm, Sun 11.30am & 2pm. £11.

Call 01962 873603 to book.

31 March Toddler Time: Pirate Adventures Sea City Museum Calling all active and curious toddlers aged between 18months – 4 years. Join Sea City Museum for an exciting story, get crafty and be mini-explorers around the museum.

Please pre-book on 023 8083 4536.

2 April Snoopy and Charlie Brown, A Peanuts Movie The Point, Eastleigh Charlie Brown, the world’s most beloved underdog, embarks upon an epic and heroic quest, while his best pal Snoopy, takes to the skies to pursue his arch-nemesis, the Red Baron.10am and 2pm. Call 023 8065 2333 for more details.

31 March Easter Hare Clay Workshop Southampton City Art Gallery Have fun and get messy learning new techniques to create a magical terracotta Easter hare to take home with you. Be inspired by the wonderful work of sculptor Barry Flannagan. Suitable for ages 5yrs+.

From 10am - 12noon and 1.30 3.30pm. £5, Call 023 8083 4536 to pre-book

29 March Easter Willow Craft Royal Victoria Country Park Join the workshop to learn how to make your own Easter chick or fish out of willow. Booking is essential as places are limited. £6 per person. 10am-12pm for family groups (with 4-8 yr old children) or 2pm-4pm for young people only (8yrs+ no adults required). Call 023 8045 5157 to book.

31 March Blunderbus Theatre presents: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Hanger Farm Arts Centre Charlie Hubble wants to be a worldclass magician. He saves up his pocket money to buy The Big Book of Magic for Trainee Magicians. Then he sets off to Mr. Zacoor’s Toy Shop to buy his spell book. But Mr. Zacoor is no ordinary shopkeeper; he’s a real life Sorcerer. 11am & 2pm. Tickets £8, £6 concessions

29 & 31 March and 5 & 7 April Pond Dipping Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Join Hillier’s for pond dipping and see what is living in the Education Garden ponds. Find diving beetles, nimble pond skaters, slimy snails and more. Equipment provided. An adult must accompany children.

1pm - 4pm, Price - £1.50 per child (Normal Garden admission applies).

1 April Only Fools Allowed Tudor House and Garden Why did the chicken cross the road? To come to Tudor House! Go for a fun-filled session of practical jokes, craft and the opportunity to make your very own jester kit. Ages 7-11yrs. 10.30am-12.30pm OR 1-3pm, £5, Pre-book on 023 8083 4536

30 March Marwell’s Zany Zebras- Art Gallery Workshop Southampton City Art Gallery Get ready for Marwell’s Zany Zebra art trail by creating your own miniature herd. Drop in to the art gallery and create zebra sculptures with more than the usual stripes.

Suitable for age 5yrs+, drop in between 10.30am-1.30pm, £4.

1 April Unicorn Horns & Dragon Claws Southampton City Art Gallery Enjoy stories, games and make a magical horn or some spiky claws to wear home. Suitable for those under 6yrs. 10-11.30am & 2-3.30pm. £5.

Call 023 8083 4536 to pre-book .

31 March Time Travellers History Club: Swords and Shakespeare Tudor House and Garden Play games, handle real objects, try out crafts, dress up from the past and meet new people. Learn to

18

swordfight, taunt like a Shakespeare villain and create your very own craft inspired by the Bard. Suitable for ages 8-13yrs, 10am - 1pm, £12 each session. Pre-book on 023 8083 4536

Hampshire West Magazine

2 April – 3 April Louis Pearl: The Amazing Bubble Man Winchester Discovery Centre Based in America Louis Pearl explores the breath-taking dynamics of bubbles, combining comedy and artistry with audience participation and enough spellbinding bubble

4 April Dear Zoo – Animal Printmaking Southampton City Art Gallery A lovely animal printmaking session taking inspiration from the children’s book Dear Zoo. Suitable for under 6 years. From 10 - 11.30am or 2 - 3.30pm, £5. Call 023 8083 4536 to pre-book.

4 April Clay Cruise Liners Sea City Museum Make fantastic cruise liners inspired by the impressive vessels using simple clay sculpting techniques.

10:30am-12.30pm and 1.30pm3:30pm, £6, for ages 6+. Call 023 8083 4536 for more information.

4 April Bread Making - Family Bushcraft Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Go and identify some common herbs and their culinary uses as you make and cook bread on the campfire in Ampfield Woods. 10am – 12.30pm or 1.30pm – 4pm, £10 (for 1 child and 1 adult). Suitable for accompanied children aged 4 – 12 years. Booking is essential please call 01794 369318.

5-6 April Spring Fairies Tudor House and Garden Listen to a fairy themed story, paint a magical picture and make your own fairy to take home. Search for hidden fairies in the Tudor Garden. Fancy dress is encouraged. Age 2yrs+, 10.30-12.30pm or 1-3pm, £5. Prebook on 023 8083 4536 7 April Time Travellers History Club: Blistering Blitz Tudor House and Garden Play games, handle real objects, try out crafts, dress up from the past and meet new people. Visit Tudor House’s air raid shelter and discover more about Southampton during the Blitz by making your very own working parachute. Age 8-13yrs, 10am-1pm, and £12 each session.

Pre-book on 023 8083 4536

7 April All Aboard Titanic Sea City Museum Explore the different people on the Titanic and find out what life was like in 1912. This offers the chance to investigate the disaster in an interesting, child-friendly way. Call 023 8083 4536 for more information or to book. From 10:30am-12.30pm or 1.30pm-3:30pm. Tickets are £5, suitable for ages 4-8years.

8 April Animation Studio: Movie Making Workshop Hanger Farm Arts Centre Try your hand at stop motion animation with the Animation Studio: Movie Making Workshop for 7-11 year olds. Create characters using plasticine, card and other interesting materials and work in small groups to make a movie using laptops, cameras and stop motion software. The final film will be put on the Internet for you to watch or download. Bring your lunch.

10.30am-3.30pm. £30, call 023 80667683 to book.

8 April The Gods of Egypt Sea City Museum Become an Egyptologist by learning hieroglyphics, create your own headdress, handle real artifacts and mummify an orange! All materials included. 10.30am-12.30pm OR 1.30-3.30pm. £6. Pre-book on 023 8083 4536. Suitable for ages 5-11 years.

9 & 23 April NCT Family Saturday Group The Salvation Army Centre, Hedge End, SO30 2GL Come along for some Saturday morning fun! Toys, crafts and activities for little ones and their grown-ups too. Enjoy a hot drink, biscuit and a natter while the kids play. 10.30-midday. Suggested donation £1.50.

10 April Spring Steam Up Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum The resident traction engines and road rollers will be out today and the museum will be in steam. The trains will be running (weather permitting) whilst inside there will be activities for children plus craft stalls, live music and the café to relax in.

17 April Curious Creatures Winchester Discovery Centre Learn about how animals evolved and expect to meet curious creatures of all shapes and sizes: performing fleas, skateboarding snails and an over-excited elephant. 11.30am. £7.50 each or four tickets for £24.

Call 01962 873603 to book.

Activity and Holiday Camps Making Movies Summer Camp for actors aged 8 +

The Wizard of Oz Perform

No prior experience or training is required to join this exciting five-day camp. The participants will be given coaching in performance skills of acting for the camera, line delivery and characterisation. They will learn about technical skills, such as shot angles, lighting and sound. They will have the opportunity to work the clapper board, handle the boom mic and assist the director and camera operators. They will ‘shoot’ in a variety of different locations- interior and exterior – all at the lovely facilities of Prince’s Mead School, Winchester. At the end of the week, the ‘footage’ is taken away and edited. Then everyone is invited to a ‘premiere’ screening of the finished movie and everyone goes home with their own DVD, complete with extra features.

This spring, we’ll be skipping down the Yellow Brick Road to meet the Wonderful Wizard. In the enchanting company of Dorothy, the Scarecrow and Tin Man, your child will enjoy a joyous journey to the Emerald City to discover Ruby Slippers, brave the Haunted Forest and explore the wonderful world of Oz for a fabulous springtime treat.

Movie Makers UK 15 – 19 August

Places are limited, so book early to avoid disappointment.Call 01962 777 489 or email: info@moviemakers-uk.com www.moviemakers-uk.com

Putting magic into the Easter holidays Supercamps Looking for something for your children to do this Easter? Then Super Camps daily activity camps are the perfect way to put the magic back into the school holidays.

The programme is jam-packed with fun activities that will keep your children entertained for hours, and our ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating gives you the peace of mind that your children are in the best possible care. Camps include a variety of sports, games, and arts and crafts. No two days are the same and the price includes all activities. Visit www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 467300.

s due n i F lin on

30 March - 1 April or 4 - 6 April

Perform’s brilliant team of enthusiastic and highly trained actors, musicians and dancers will work their magic to ensure your child enjoys every minute. They guide each child every step of the way and inspire and encourage them to project their voices, learn energetic dance routines, sing catchy songs, and develop the Perform 4 Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Communication and Coordination.

At the end of three full days, the children will put on a showstopping performance to delight family and friends complete with colourful costumes and original songs. They’ll also get a personalised certificate to celebrate everything they’ve achieved.

Holiday courses available in Lymington, Winchester, Romsey and Southampton. Call 020 7255 9120 for more details or visit: www.perform.org.uk

For a full list of holiday clubs and camps visit our website: www.familieshampshirewest.co.uk

THE UK’S NO.1

FROM

£30 PER DAY

familieshampshirewest.co.uk

HOLIDAY FUN! MONDAY - FRIDAY 8AM TO 6PM

WITH ACTIVITIES FOR AGES 4 - 14

01235 467300 • WWW.SUPERCAMPS.CO.UK March/ April 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

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Paultons Park and Paultons are registered trademarks of Paultons Park Ltd.