Issue 22 – May/June 2011 www.familiessolentwest.co.uk
FREE Magazine
SOLENT WEST
ALL THE LATEST NEWS & AN EXTENSIVE GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON IN YOUR LOCAL AREA Distribution: Warsash, Botley, Eastleigh, Chandlers Ford, Romsey, Lockerley, Alresford, Winchester, Southampton, Totton, Hythe, Lyndhurst, Beaulieu, Lymington and all the places in between.
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Families Solent West
May – June 2011
Families Solent West Welcome to our May/June 2011 issue... Bursting with our usual ‘whats-on’ pages for you to plan your family days out with the children... See pages 9-13. On page 8 you will find some of the best party entertainers around.... So if you are looking for some inspiration for your little one’s party then give them a call, they will be pleased to help you. And lastly, don’t forget your Dad on Fathers Day, Sunday 19th June... Enjoy... Regards Beth
Cover image courtesy of www.picandmiximages.co.uk Credit: Kiddymania www.kiddymania.co.uk 01455 615 804
Tired of juggling family and work commitments? Do you need balance and a flexible lifestyle? Would a regular part time income make a difference to your quality of life? If you are honest, ethical, hard working, self motivated and have a managerial, teaching/training, HR, sales/ marketing, recruitment or self employed background or perhaps you have retired or taken a career break to raise a family then we would love to hear from you. Call Hesione Waugh on 01329 232 084 / 07794127732 or email hesione.waugh@yahoo.co.uk Life is for living! Are you living the life you want?
THERE’S A NEW PARTY IN TOWN… pass it on! Jamie Oliver is coming to Town! Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be part of his exciting new business Jamie at Home. We are currently seeking self-employed Managers and Consultants with or without Party Plan experience and anyone looking for extra income in 2011. Could this be you? For more details contact Sarah on 07796 170200 or vc_sarah@hotmail.com. May – June 2011
Spread The Word! If you know of a nursery, school or other place that parents visit regularly that would like to receive FREE copies of Families Solent West please get in touch and we will bring some round. Copyright: Families Solent West, May/June 2011. Data Protection: if you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition offering prizes in Families Solent West, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes. If you would prefer us NOT to do so please state this clearly on your entry. Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners own risk and whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent West nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take 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. Families Groups: Families Solent West is part of a group established in 1990, headed by Families South West. All magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Magazine Designed by www.MatoboDesign.com
Families Solent West
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Families Solent West May/June 2011
contents 4, 5 & 6 NEWS Local news & updates covering events and services 7 EDUCATION Schools & Tutoring programmes 8 PARTIES FEATURE Top tips and some different ideas to consider 9 – 13 WHAT’S ON Activities and events across the whole area 14 & 15 CHILDCARE All types of childcare Editor: Beth Taylor E-mail: editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk FAMILIES SOLENT WEST P O Box 630, Fareham, PO14 9HZ www.familiessolentwest.co.uk Tel: 01329 310994 Next Issue: July/August 2011 Editorial & Booking deadline: 3rd June 2011 To advertise in Families Solent West: Call 01329 310994 or email ads@familiessolentwest.co.uk To place editorial: Email editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk To place a classified advert: Email classifieds@familiessolentwest.co.uk
www.familiessolentwest.co.uk is packed with really useful local information to help make your family life a little easier.
Don’t forget to say you saw these adverts in Families Solent West
Freedom Childcare Freedom Childcare is very proud to announce the launch of their training department. After years of outsourcing our own staffs training requirements we are now able to deliver them ourselves. In addition to in-house training, we are also offering courses to other childcare professionals and parents. We have just become approved through NARS to deliver first aid training which includes paediatric first aid, First aid at work, and First aid for parents. We are also able to deliver workshops to parents and are currently working with the childrens’ centres throughout Hampshire to devise courses and workshops specifically for adult learning. Our short courses include, assertiveness, dealing with challenging children, be who you want your children to be, cooking for children and many more. Our courses can be ran evening and weekends to fit in with working families also day times whilst children are at school. Our Trainers are all qualified childcare professionals and our courses are fun and practical and have outcomes that may change and even save lives! If you would like information on our training courses or any of our childcare services please don’t hesitate to call us on 08453 300403 or e-mail on enquiries@freedomchildcare.com
Help with everyday costs If you’re responsible for at least one child or young person who normally lives with you, you may be eligible for Child Tax Credit. If you work, but earn low wages, you may be eligible for Working Tax Credit.
Child Tax Credit According to the Government nine out of ten families with children can qualify. You don’t have to be a parent either - anyone who’s mainly responsible for a child can claim.
Working Tax Credit If you’re in work but on low pay, you can apply for Working Tax Credit to top up your earnings. You can claim this whether you’re employed or selfemployed and you may get extra assistance depending on your situation. It’s worth checking out! Call the HM Revenue and Customs helpline: 0845 300 3900. For online information visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/taxcredits. 4
Families Solent West
May – June 2011
News The Berry Theatre, Hedge End The South East’s latest creative landmark The Berry Theatre is establishing itself as a ce centre of excellence for professional work for, by and with children and wor young people. The theatre offers a you vibrant programme of professional vib children’s theatre, a Youth Theatre chi Company and a range of children’s Co workshops, from puppetry to special wo effects stage-make-up. ef The theatre’s exciting school holiday T pprogramme includes the opportunity for children to create a ‘play in a day’ fo dduring summer half-term or a ‘play in a week’ during the summer holidays.
Kids love drama, parents love the results! Classes in: Lordshill and Eastleigh. Also a new class starting on the 7th May in Lymington. ACT NOW – PHONE 0845 226 8117 or email soton@helenogrady.co.uk And we’ll tell you more about Helen O’Grady Drama Classes www.helenogrady.co.uk
Boost your child’s confidence and communication skills with Helen O’Grady drama classes. For children aged 3 to17, our unique programme provides the best possible preparation for growing up. Development through Drama. Free taster session.
Visit www.theberrytheatre.co.uk for more information.
Splash Happy There can be few more worthwhile jobs than teaching babies potentially life-saving skills from birth. Now seven local Water Babies instructors have been doubly rewarded, having been nominated ‘Most Outstanding Activity Leader for the Under 5s’ in the prestigious ‘What’s On 4 2011’ awards. Ali & Budge Pountney have been running the multi-award winning classes across Hampshire since 2007 and have been nominated for the award along with fellow instructors Angela Trodd, Cheryl Tyson, Jenny Healey, Vicki Jackson and Vlasta Eames. Additionally, the company has also been nominated in the ‘Best National Baby & Toddler Development Activity’ category – an award which they won last year. Water Babies’ uniquely structured programme, designed to make the most of babies’ natural affinity with water, teaches water confidence and safety techniques from birth. ‘With progressive training, babies can be taught life saving skills such as turning onto their backs or swimming to the nearest solid object following a sudden submersion,’ explains Ali. ‘And it’s so important that they do. Within the last two years, eight of our children nationally saved themselves from drowning – despite three of them being only two.’ Water Babies classes run across Hampshire, for more information call Ali or Budge on 01794324353 or visit www.waterbabies.co.uk
Rugbytots Rugbytots is the UK’s first rugby specific play programme for 2-7 year old boys and girls. It’s unique programme is structured, very energetic and loads of fun. We have small class sizes to ensure that the children receive the right level of individual coaching and help them to develop both social and physical skills. We operate daytime, after school and weekend classes in Andover, Winchester and Salisbury and will open soon in Romsey. For more information, either visit www.rugbytots.co.uk, email phil@rugbytots.co.uk or call 0845 313 3258.
May – June 2011
Families Solent West
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News Show dad that you love him Smallprint silver jewellery is a wonderful way to say ‘Dad I love you’ and ‘thanks for being there for me’. Nothing says ‘I want to follow in your footsteps’ more than cufflinks capturing his child’s’ footprints or that precious drawing of him treasured on a keyring with a special message engraved on the back. We can tailor our jewellery to suit your special dad. Ring Wendy on 023 80292388 or Suzanne on 01489 559218 to discuss your ideas and possibilities. wendy@smallp.co.uk / suzanne@smallp.co.uk – www.smallp.co.uk
Childcare Solutions for Holidays With the long summer holidays fast approaching, many parents start to panic about how they will juggle childcare and work. Amanda Coxen, director of Tinies, (www.tinies.com) the UK’s largest childcare agency, has put together a guide on childcare in the holidays, and what options are available to you.
Holiday Nanny Perhaps an expensive option, but certainly the most flexible one, is to hire a temporary nanny for the holidays. You can have someone come to your home every day, or part of the day, or a few times per week. The beauty of a nanny is that you set the hours that they work to fit with your working hours. For more information, contact your local Tinies branch who will be happy to provide you with advice on hiring a holiday nanny – www.tinies.com
Sharing a Holiday Nanny If the cost of hiring a nanny on your own is perhaps too much, then have you thought about sharing a nanny with another family for the holidays? The website www.nannyshare.co.uk helps families get in touch with other families in their local area, to share a nanny.
Emergency Childcare or Ad Hoc Cover You may have your holiday childcare sorted, but then at the last minute it falls through, or your child is sick and can’t attend a holiday club. Or you may need to have just a day of childcare. The backup care company My Family Care can help with both these solutions, by finding an emergency childcare solution for you on your doorstep. www.emergencychildcare.co.uk can help you book local emergency childcare whether it’s a nursery, childminder or an emergency nanny, with only 1 hours’ notice. An invaluable resource for parents in a crisis.
Holiday Clubs Every area will have a number of holiday clubs advertised. They range from general holiday clubs which cover a wide range of activities, to specialist sporting camps, such as swimming, football, gymnastics, tennis etc. You can often find out about them by contacting your local Families Information Service. It is always a nice idea to find out if other children are going that your children know, as it can help get over that initial first day shyness. www.myfamilycare.co.uk
45 minute classes – no enrolment fee £4.00 per class payable termly in advance Dance, Rhythm, Coordination, Imagination, Fun For Boys and Girls aged 2-5
(Romsey Rapids members £3.50)
THURSDAYS 10.45am @ ROMSEY RAPIDS Call Emma on
0781 8406831
Come and visit us at www.familiessolentwest.co.uk We upload all of our local articles and ‘What’s On’ for easy access online. Copies of each issue of our printed magazine can either be downloaded as a pdf or viewed online. The Families Solent West section is filled with local articles, listings, discussion forums and loads of great competitions too. In addition, there are plenty of other articles site-wide relating to a variety of topics about families and children. By registering and logging in, you allow all articles you read to automatically show the relevant local companies at the bottom. It also means Families Solent West becomes your default Home Page when you visit us. Isn’t it clever!?
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Families Solent West
May – June 2011
Education Regular reading with your children is probably the most important thing you can do to help with their education.
Don’t forget to say you saw these adverts in Families Solent West
Reading not only opens up the world of literature, but also opens all the other curriculum doors at school. Ideally, read with your children every day. If children are in a routine of reading at a certain time every day, then they are much less likely to complain. Don’t be daunted by ‘new’ teaching methods. Most children are now taught to read at school using phonics – but this isn’t anything new. They are learning to read by blending together sounds which are made of single letters or groups of letters. A good example of using phonics to read is when trying to read the word ‘high’ for the first time. It does not make any sense to sound out each individual letter ‘h-i-g-h’, but children need to know that this word is made up of two sounds represented by the letters ‘h’ and ‘igh’. As a teacher and mum of children learning to read, I recognise that many parents want to do as much as they can to be involved in their child’s reading development, but it is not as easy as it seems. I launched www.ReadingChest.co.uk to provide guidance and easy access to appropriate books for children learning to read. Families discount code ‘FAMILIES’ will give readers £5 off their first month’s membership.
Summer Holiday Activities for 5 – 14 year olds At the Countryside Education Trust’s Treehouse Study Centre and Out of Town Centre, Beaulieu Take a look at the programme of fun outdoor activities starting on the 1st August 2011. For 5 – 8 year olds: On Safari, Butterfly Summer, Tales from the Farm & A Pirate’s Life for Me (Half-days) For 8 – 10 year olds Shipwrecked (four days of activities) For 11 – 14 year olds Outward Bound & Surviving the Wild www.cet.org.uk More information on these activities will be provided in our next issue of families Solent West.
May – June 2011
Families Solent West
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Parties Planning your next party?....
Why not contact one of our party advertisers .... They are more than willing to help and discuss your party needs whatever the occasion.... Racking your brain for an innovative party idea for your child can be difficult? Use our advertisers to discover the best around... whether it’s art, disco, makeovers, ponies, sport or activities you are looking for, here are a few of what is on offer to you.... Enjoy booking the perfect party with the help of the experts.
Top tips
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It’s all in the timing: For little children, 11am-1pm or 12-2pm are best. Most of them have been up since six and they’re past their best by the afternoon. For older children a lunchtime slot or mid afternoon start will work Liaise with parents whose children have birthdays around the same time. If you both book the same day for a party, the guest list will be tricky. Joining forces is a much better idea – you can share the costs and the hassle Keep the food simple and don’t over cater. Most children are too excited to have a big appetite. Limit the junk food and remember some children maybe vegetarian or have a food intolerance Sleepovers: come midnight, you’ll be regretting it... Planning ahead is KEY. Read our ‘been there, done that’ parent’s guide: go to www.familiesonline.co.uk and type ‘successful sleepovers’ into the search box.
Children’s Parties
Fun, adventure parties at two fantastic venues – the Treehouse Study Centre and Out of Town Centre, Beaulieu Follow trails, take part in fun outdoor games, hunt for hidden treasure. Themes include Animals, Bugs, Birds, Robin Hood, Pirates, Dinosaurs, Fairies & Owls and special Survival Parties for 7 yr olds + For more information or to discuss your party call the Countryside Education Trust on
01590 612401 mail@cet.org.uk www.cet.org.uk
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What's On
Where you see this symbol please visit...
www.hampshiretopattractions.co.uk for more information and discount vouchers.
We aim to be as accurate as possible but the listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check details and prices.
Until Sun 5 June The Glory of the Garden Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8089 1203 Exbury Gardens are world-famous for the Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and plants.The early spring Rock Garden and Heather Garden, daffodils, camellias, magnolias and primroses give way to bluebells, rhododendrons and azaleas, with colour and birdsong at every turn.The spectacle of the Azalea Bowl in May is not to be missed. 20 miles of technicolour pathways lead to an average visit time in April and May of over 5 hours, although visitors can let “the train take the strain” on a 20 min journey into the north-east corner of the Gardens, or take a chauffeur driven buggy tour to the best of the colour.
29, 30 April Royal Wedding weekend Basing House, Basingstoke. www.basinghouse.org.uk 01256 463965 Bring your children or grand-children (aged 0-15 yrs) dressed up as a Prince or Princess and get FREE entry for that child with one full paying adult or concession. Enjoy activities to celebrate this special occasion.Tickets can be purchased on the day - no need to pre-book. and 1 & 2 May, 10am - 5pm
Royal Wedding weekend Milestones Museum, Basingstoke. www.milestones-museum.com 01256 477766 Join us to celebrate this special occasion. See the Wedding themed costumed interpreter’s presentations, make a crown to take home and join in the street party! Normal admission charges apply. and 1 & 2 May
30 April May Day Festival – Marwell Wildlife www.marwell.org.uk 01962 777407 Festival fun for all the family, join us for Marwell’s May day madness! through to 2 May
5 May ToTs ‘n’ Tinies: Tractor Time Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 522106 1 to 3pm. Come and see our tractors! £4.95 per adult (members free). £4.95 per child; siblings under 2 free
8 May Planetarium Show Intech www.intech-uk.com The Planet Show – popular live show, good for families with a spread of ages. 11.30am & 2.30pm +£2.20
Planetarium Show Intech www.intech-uk.com Flight through the Universe - very popular live show, best for ages 8yr+. 10:40am & 1:30pm +£2.20
Chatterbox Monday Intech www.intech-uk.com Secret of the Cardboard Rocket – special planetarium showing where we don’t ask everyone to keep quiet. 2:40pm. +£2.20
11 May Space Lecture Intech www.intech-uk.com Songs of the Stars (Prof Donald Kurtz) 6:30pm. £6/£5, age 11+
13 May Little Owls Parent & Toddler Club Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401 Fun, nature based activities in the Farm and Garden, Out of Town Centre, Beaulieu 10.00am – 12.00 noon or 1.00 – 3.00pm session. Taster session & Friends of the Trust £4.00 per parent & child (plus £2.00 for each additional child/adult). Non-members £5.50/£2.75 Advance booking essential.
Museum at Night Royal Navy Submarine Museum 6.30 – 8pm New crew for HMS Alliance – a 24hr Challenge In aid of the Saving HMS Alliance Appeal, a crew of nuclear apprentices will be moving onto HMS Alliance to live onboard as her crew for 24 hours. Come and see HMS Alliance brought to life! Free with a valid museum ticket.
Live Music and picnic in the Walled Garden Basing House, Basingstoke. www.basinghouse.org.uk 01256 463965 Enjoy your picnic whilst listening to live music in the picturesque surroundings of the Walled Garden at Basing House. and Sunday 5 June, 12-3pm
2 May Springtime Celebration Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 1pm to 4.30pm. Drop in: Craft making fun. Free with normal admission. May – June 2011
RHS New Forest Breakfast Walk Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8024 5750 Enjoy a wonderful early morning tour of the Gardens with our knowledgeable and entertaining Head Gardener John Anderson. Mid-May is the very best time to see the Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. The walk is guaranteed to work up an appetite for a delicious New Forest breakfast in Mr Eddy’s Restaurant, with all food sourced from local producers. Time: 8:00am – 10:30am. Free re-entry to Gardens after breakfast. Price £18.50 or £14.80 for RHS members and Exbury season ticket holders. Booking office Tel No: 023 8024 5750
9 May
Saturday 14 May 10am – 4.30pm
1 May
14 May
15 May Watercress Festival The Mid Hants Railway ‘Watercress Line’ www.watercressline.co.uk 01962 733810 A fantastic food festival in Alresford town celebrating our locally grown watercress, a great day out for the family; come and celebrate with us and take advantage the free shuttle service running on The Watercress Line between Alresford and Ropley.
16 May Little Owls Parent & Toddler Club Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401 Fun, nature based activities in the Farm and Garden, Out of Town Centre, Beaulieu. 10.00am – 12.00 noon or 1.00 – 3.00pm session. Taster session & Friends of the Trust £4.00 per parent & child (plus £2.00 for each additional child/adult). Non-members £5.50/£2.75 Advance booking essential.
19 May ToTs ‘n’ Tinies: Big and Beautiful Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 522106 Showy flowers – 1 to 3pm. £4.95 per adult (members free) £4.95 per child; siblings under 2 free
21 May Sculpture Hunt Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 Fun family trail to find sculptures. Free with normal admission to Fri 22 July
Braishfield School Summer Fayre & Classic Car Show Saturday 18th June 12pm til 4.30pm Many fantastic stalls & fun activities for all the family! Bar, BBQ, Tea & Cakes, Plants, Fun Dog Show & Live Music FREE ENTRY! A small charge for entry to car show Families Solent West
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What's On Looking for Yoghurt – 2pm Theatre Royal Winchester www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk 01962 840440
Summer Half Term Marwell Wildlife www.marwell.org.uk 01962 777407
Written by Mi Jeong Kim (Korea), Toyoko Nishida (Japan) and Peter Wynne-Willson (UK) Produced by Birmingham Rep.
Join in our summer half term celebrations whilst learning more about our gentle giant, the white rhino, and our conservation work with the white rhino & black rhino in Zimbabwe’s national parks. Get crafty in the craft area and meet our loveable crash of Southern White Rhino.
Looking for Yoghurt is a yearlong collaboration between artists from Korea, Japan and the UK, bringing their skills, cultures and languages together. Simple but inventive staging, humour, live music and outstanding physical performances characterise this moving original story inspired by the wisdom of children. Age recommendation: ages 6 to 12
22 May PhotoTrek Workshop Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8024 5750 Come and learn photographic techniques in the delightful setting of an Exbury spring with two professional photographers, Ian Badley and Barry Whitcher. Bring your own camera – suitable for beginners and those learning the art of photography. PhotoTrek is an all-day course run between 8am and 4pm, max 15 per session. £90 per person includes tea/ coffee, cookies and a lunch of soup and sandwiches. Pre-booking essential on 023 8024 5750. The Box Office is manned Mon – Fri 9.30am – 4.30pm.
Special Event Intech www.intech-uk.com Deaf-friendly events. Sub-titled and signed planetarium shows and activities. All details tbc, please check web closer to date. 10am-4pm
25 May 4th Wed. Lecture Intech www.intech-uk.com Sound is more than Noise: (Prof.Tim Leighton) 6:30pm £6/£5/£3 age 10+
28 May Jungle Book Trail Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov.uk/activities 023 80475080
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Families Solent West
through to Sunday 5 June
Summer Half term fun at Milestones Museum Milestones Museum, Leisure Park, Basingstoke www.milestones-museum.com 01256 477766 Drop in to Milestones for some half term make & take fun (Mon-Fri 10.30am - 4.30pm). See website or call for information about other activities happening during the weekends and weekdays. through to Sunday 5 June
Gingerbread Trail Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 Find all the ingredients to make a gingerbread man and collect your very own from the Cedar Tea Rooms. Time: Available 10am-4pm from the Heritage Visitor Centre. Price: £1.50 per trail through to Sunday 5 June
Trucks & Troops National Motor Museum, Beaulieu www.beaulieuevents.co.uk 01590 612888 From the 28th - 30th May 2011, and for the fifth year running, Beaulieu plays host to Trucks & Troops. Staged by the South Hampshire Area of the Military Vehicle Trust, this explosive show provides a great day out for all, featuring: Hundreds of military vehicles on show, Live action, A full programme of Arena events, Activities for younger visitors, Militaria stalls.
Mon 30 May Springtime Make and Take Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries 1pm to 4.30pm. Drop in: Craft making fun! Free with normal admission
Half-term flower design with NAFAS Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8089 1203
This half term we have a Jungle Book theme, so why not join our trail featuring favourite characters from the book. Cost £1.75 per trail pack. Any time between 10.30am and 4.00pm
Enjoy a short free workshop session with the talented team from the local branch of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies and take-home your own handsculpted flower! Running throughout the day – just turn-up, no need to pre-book. Prices within Gardens Admission.
through to Sunday 5 June
through to 3 June May – June 2011
Summer Half Term
In a modern city, scarred by constant construction and reconstruction, a small Korean girl is looking for her friend, a stray cat called Yoghurt. She meets two other children, both strangers and both from different cultures to her own. As the sun goes down their fear of monsters and concerns for a broken world take them on an extraordinary adventure in which they dig for Brazil and climb above the moon. It is an encounter, which will change their lives forever…
Summer Half Term
What's On The Great Fun Farm Forage Longdown Activity Farm www.longdownfarm.co.uk 023 8029 2837
ToTs ‘n’ Tinies: Water Ways Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 522106 to book
Find farming implements hidden around the Farm using a fun and informative quiz sheet. Great lucky dip prize (children only) at the end of the forage for all those super snoopers! Great for nosey parkers!
Water’s journey – 10am to 12 noon. £4.95 per adult (members free) £4.95 per child; siblings under 2 free
to Friday 3 June
31 May Big Owls Club Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401 Fun, discovery activities for 4 – 6 year olds with adults. Garden Bug Hunt at the Out of Town Centre, Beaulieu. 10.00am – 12.30pm or 1.30 – 4.00pm session. Friends of the Trust £5.00 per adult & child (plus £2.50 for each additional child/adult). Non-members £6.00/£3.00
Jungle Book Masks Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov.uk/activities 023 8047 5080 Come and make a mask of your favourite Jungle Book character. Cost £1.50 per mask. Any time between 10.30am and 12.30pm
1 June Pond Life Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 Discover what lurks beneath the water as you dip for creatures in our pond. Time: 10am-12pm. Meet at Acorns Education Facility. Price: £3 per person.
Pond Life Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries 1pm to 4.30pm. Drop in for ponddipping fun to find aquatic beasties. Free with normal admission.
Forest Activity Day Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov.uk/activities 023 8047 5080 A day of activities in our woodland for children aged 6-11 years. Includes shelter building, campfire cookery and woodland crafts. Cost £15.00 per child. 9.30am to 3.30pm. BOOKING ESSENTIAL
2 June King Louie Puppet www.eastleigh.gov.uk/activities 023 8047 5080 Lots of sticking to make Jungle Book’s King Louie character. Cost £1.50 per puppet. Any time between 10.30am and 12.30pm
May – June 2011
Let’s Go Fly a Kite Royal Navy Submarine Museum www.submarine-museum.co.uk 11am – 3pm. Make your own kite in this fun drop in family workshop. FREE with a valid museum ticket
3 June Special Event Intech www.intech-uk.com Falconry – meet the amazing birds and their trainers. Flying times will be arranged on the day, dependent on weather. Free*
Little Owls Parent & Toddler Club Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401 Fun, nature based Flowers and Colours in the Garden, Out of Town Centre, Beaulieu. 10.00am – 12.00 noon or 1.00 – 3.00pm session. Taster session & Friends of the Trust £4.00 per parent & child (plus £2.00 for each additional child/adult). Non-members £5.50/£2.75 Advance booking essential.
4 June Kings, Vikings Ships and Navies National Museum of the Royal Navy 02392 727582 / events@nmrn.org Dr Dominic Tweddle, Director General of the National Museum of the Royal Navy, 2pm. Controversy rages over when the Navy was formed and King Alfred has been pin pointed as one of the suspects! This lecture explores the intricate interrelationship between kingship and ships in the Anglo-Saxon and Viking worlds. Will King Alfred’s reputation survive intact? FREE event. Booking is essential.
Beaulieu Steam Revival National Motor Museum, Beaulieu www.beaulieusteamrevival.co.uk 01590 612888 Stepping back 100 years to the magical age of steam. “A superb event with a great atmosphere”. The Beaulieu Steam Revival Show prides itself on providing an authentic and quality steam experience for enthusiasts and families alike including moving transport and period costume. The event offers the opportunity to see a wide range of steam driven demonstrations and a wide range of makes and engine models all at the one show! and 5 June Families Solent West
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Petal Fall Weekend, Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8089 1203
It’s Timmy from Timmy Time Longdown Activity Farm www.longdownfarm.co.uk 023 8029 2837
Children are welcomed into the Gardens free-of-charge this weekend and encouraged to pick up fallen petals from the rhododendrons and azaleas. A giant collage will then be prepared by the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS). Prices within Gardens Admission, children free.
Timmy, the little lamb from hit Cbeebies series, Timmy Time, will be paying a special visit to Longdown Farm on Sunday 5th June, so come along and have your children meet one of their favourite preschool characters! Timmy will be appearing at intervals throughout the day, from 11am onwards.
and 5 June
Wartime walks Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8024 5750 As part of the Exbury Veterans D-Day rememberance weekend on Sat 4 / Sun 5 June, author John Stanley is hosting a series of guided walks at Exbury Gardens to commemorate a mysterious incident that happened in the run-up to the Normandy landings. Start times: 11am and 2pm on both 4 & 5 June. Normal admission rates apply (see www.exbury.co.uk ). Places are limited. Payment (usual admission) may be made on the day at gate admissions. Signed copies of John Stanley’s book will be on sale in the Exbury Gardens Gift Shop. and 5 June
5 June Discovering D-Day Lepe Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/lepe 02380 899108 Take a historic family walk to the D-Day remains, and test your detective skills with a code breaking activity. Time: 2pm-4pm. Price: Adult £5, Child £3. Booking essential.
6 June Little Owls Parent & Toddler Club Countryside Education Trust www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401 Fun, nature based activities on the theme of Flowers and Colours in the Garden, Out of Town Centre, Beaulieu. 10.00am – 12.00 noon or 1.00 – 3.00pm session. Taster session & Friends of the Trust £4.00 per parent & child (plus £2.00 for each additional child/ adult). Non-members £5.50/£2.75 Advance booking essential.
Chatterbox Monday Intech www.intech-uk.com Secret of the Cardboard Rocket – special planetarium showing where we don’t ask everyone to keep quiet. 2:40pm. +£2.20
8 June Space Lecture Intech www.intech-uk.com Dark Energy and the Ever-Expanding Universe (Dr Carolin Crawford) 6:30pm. £6/£5. Age 11+
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Families Solent West
11 June
18 June
War On The Line The Mid Hants Railway ‘Watercress Line’ www.watercressline.co.uk 01962 733810
MY BLUE NOSE FRIENDS Paultons Park www.paultonspark.co.uk 023 80814455
The railway is transformed and taken back to the 1940’s and WWII. Experience what life was like, with military and civilian re-enactors, period vehicles and lots of displays, including an aerial display! (aerial display date and time TBC – please see website nearer the time). It’s a fantastic day out for all the family with lots of interpretative displays, excellent for children’s education.
and Sunday 19 June
and 12 June
14 June TINY FUN DAYS! Paultons Park www.paultonspark.co.uk 023 80814455 Cute fun especially for little ones when Tiny Tatty Teddy visits Paultons Park! and 16 June
ToTs ‘n’ Tinies: Beetle About? Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 522106 to book Homes for little creatures – 1 to 3pm. £4.95 per adult (members free) £4.95 per child; siblings under 2 free
17 June Bioblitz Seashore Safari Lepe Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/lepe 02380 899108 Explore the wildlife that lives along our seashore. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Time: 4.30pm-6.30pm. Price: Free. Parking charges apply. Booking essential.
More cuddly days, featuring Tatty Teddy.
Braishfield School Summer Fayre & Classic Car Show 12pm til 4.30pm. Many fantastic stalls & fun activities for all the family! Bar, BBQ, Tea & Cakes, Plants, Fun Dog Show & Live Music. FREE ENTRY! A small charge for entry to car show.
19 June Fun for Father’s Day Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries 11am to 4pm. Special trail and craft making fun. Plus pond dipping to discover aquatic creatures! Booking essential through Romsey Community Office: 01794 522106
Young Musicians in the Gardens Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries Romsey Area Schools Ensembles present the Youth Training Band and Youth Jazz Orchestra who will delight and entertain you with music in the Gardens. Please see website for performance timings. Free with normal admission
Father’s Day on the Watercress Line The Mid Hants Railway ‘Watercress Line’ www.watercressline.co.uk 01962 733810 Special dining trains running… the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach – add a steam train to the mix and it’s a sure fire way to make Dad happy! These are pre-book only. Regular services also in operation.
May – June 2011
Father’s Day
Summer Half Term
What's On
Father’s Day
Fathers’ Day BBQ and Blues Basing House,Basingstoke. www.basinghouse.org.uk 01256 463965 Celebrate Fathers’ Day at Basing House with a BBQ and listen to the Blues performed by the band ‘Barcodes’. 12-3pm
Dad’s Special Day Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 Treat dad to a fun day out in the Park. He can enjoy a free ride on the miniature railway (with 2 paying customers) and complimentary tea or coffee in the Cedar Tea Rooms.
Fly a Kite Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 It’s Fathers’ Day! Build a kite with Dad then watch it soar in the sea breeze, or take it home as a special Fathers’ Day gift. Time: 2pm-4pm in Acorns Education Facility. Price: £3 per child.
Royal Navy Submarine Museum Father’s Day Submariners Sunday Lunch onboard HMS Alliance 1pm. Meet our submariners and join us for a traditional submariner two course Sunday Lunch onboard the historic WW2 era submarine HMS Alliance to support the Saving HMS Alliance Appeal. Tickets: £19 per person or £75 for a family of five. (includes a personal tour of HMS Alliance). All profits will go towards the Saving HMS Alliance Appeal Advanced booking is essential, book online at www.submarine-museum.co.uk or call 023 92510354 ext 240.
22 June The Westgate Lecture Intech www.intech-uk.com Chemistry is... Elementary (Bryson Gore, Omniscience). 6.30pm. £6/£5 age 8+
23 June The Adventures of Baron Munchausen Presented by the National Black Light Theatre of Prague Theatre Royal Winchester 01962 840440 Locked in an asylum for telling lies, Baron Munchausen knows only one way to escape – his imagination! And so his stories begin... Get swept away with the Baron’s tales full of love, intrigue, battles and lots of laughter. As you dive into the world of fantasy you will meet giants, sea monsters and flying people all cleverly created (without wires) live on stage! Direct from a world tour, the UK premier of this multivisual comedy sees the comic adventures of this king of fools, Baron Munchausen, brought to the stage by the illusions and tricks of the Black Light Theatre accompanied by unique multivisual effects including animation and May – June 2011
interactive film projections. This unique opportunity to experience magic created by this award-winning international theatre company will leave you mesmerised. Fantastic comedy for all the family. Age recommendation: 7+
What's On
& 24 June
25 June Armed Forces Day National Museum of the Royal Navy 2pm – 4.30pm. Join us once again for this annual event. Each year it gets bigger and better, and for 2011 there will be a World War Two Field Kitchen and vehicles to investigate, rationing recipes and tips from our wartime cooks, Make Do and Mend craft, Lindy Hop dance demonstrations, Big Band music and much more.There will also be an opportunity to find out about Veterans experiences plus the unique chance to meet the men and women behind the stories. FREE event, no booking required, all ages welcome. For further details contact 02392 727582 or email: events@nmrn.org.uk
26 June Centenary Celebration Family Day National Museum of the Royal Navy 11am – 4.30pm. Come along to our big birthday bash – we’re 100 years old! Help us celebrate in style by taking part in fun games and activities for all the family. We’ve got Barmy Boat Races, Cannonball Capers, Spot the Anchor, Pin the medal on the Admiral, dressing up, craft activities, Punch and Judy and lots more! Stay to the end for our giant Pass the Parcel game and the cutting of the Centenary Cake. FREE event, no booking required, all ages welcome. For further details contact 02392 727582 or email: events@nmrn.org.uk
Young Musicians in the Gardens Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 enquiries 11am to 12.15pm & 1.30 to 2.45pm Gosport and Fareham Youth Orchestra & Concert Band will entertain with classical, popular and film music. The 100 young musicians are part of a network of ensembles provided by the Hampshire County Council’s Music Service. Free with normal admission
New Forest Teddy Bear Festival 2011. Beaulieu Village – Sat Nav S042 7ZN 10.30 til 4pm. Parking at National Motor Museum with free park and ride bus.
30 June ToTs ‘n’ Tinies: Ring-a-ring-a-rosy Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 522106 to book 1 to 3pm. Nursery rhymes in the garden – £4.95 per adult (members free). £4.95 per child; siblings under 2 free Families Solent West
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Families Solent West
May – June 2011
Childcare Our Aim is to Exceed your Expectations
Woodhams Farm Springvale Road Kings Worthy Winchester SO23 7LB Tel: 01962 882 717 Email: info@wfdn.co.uk web: www.wfdn.co.uk
• Care and education for children from 3 months to 5 years, following the Early Years Foundation Stage set out by the DfES. • Tranquil Countryside setting with excellent facilities • Caring, friendly and qualified staff who will guide your children through their early years. • If you are considering Nursery Care when your baby is born, contact us now as places are limited
Riverbank Kindergarten Martyr Worthy Parish Hall, S021 1DY • Open 09.00–13.00 • Open Tuesdays 09.00–15.00 Summer term only • Children aged 2yrs 9m – 5yrs • Continuous provision • Peaceful, rural setting Contact Babs 07867 530075 babs_smith@btinternet.com
Don’t forget to say that you saw these companies advertised in Families Solent West magazine!
Whether a nursery, pre-school, play-group or any form of child-care, advertise here and be seen in a publication that will really work for you. For further info call 01329 310994 or email childcare@familiessolentwest.co.uk
Colden Common Community Centre St Vigor Way Colden Common Winchester SO21 1UU An ideal place to hold a family party or event. We have also recently begun a Prenatal and Newborn social support group held on Thursdays. For more details and prices please contact us at: Tel: 01962 715789 www.coldencommoncc.co.uk
May – June 2011
The Library, Free Street, Bishops Waltham, Hampshire SO32 1EE Open Tues & Weds 10.00- 4.00 and Thurs 09.30-12.30 for information We have parents and baby groups running at various locations in Bishops Waltham and Colden Common Please call in and see us or call on 01489 893314 Christine.slatcher@childrenssociety.org.uk
Families Solent West
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Families Solent West
May – June 2011