Families Solent West November/ December 2014

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November/ December 2014

SOLENT WEST

Christmas events & activities for all the family to enjoy Win family tickets to local pantomimes

Cover image Š Ali Campbell Photography

Plus what's on in November & December in Hampshire

Families Solent West Magazine - information and events for parents with 0 - 12 year olds in Hampshire November/ December 2014

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Solent West Magazine

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The All Woman Christmas Shopping and Indulgence Show The Norton Park Hotel, Sutton Scotney, Winchester

SHOP IN COMFORT AND ENJOY ALL THE TRIMMINGS OF THE ALL WOMAN SHOW WITH A FESTIVE TWIST!

Sunday 7 December 2014 10.30 am until 4.00 pm

Tickets On The Door / plus two course lunch* Adults £4.00 / £21.00* Over 60s £3.50 / £20.50* Under 13s £1.00 / £9.50* Under 5s FREE Tickets In Advance / plus two course lunch* Adults £3.00 / £18.00* Over 60s £2.50 / £17.50* Under 13s £0.50 / £8.00* Under 5s FREE (available from www.allwomanshow.com)

Charity No 1133313

For full details visit www.allwomanshow.com

hampshirefostercare @HantsFostercare

Sir Harold Hiller Gardens Grand Pantomime Bauble Hunt Saturday 13 December – Sunday 04 January*

“Our family foster because we enjoy welcoming people and sharing new experiences with them.”

2014 sees the return of the Grand Bauble Hunt in conjunction with Mayflower Theatre’s Christmas Pantomime Cinderella. With mice, pumpkins and a step-sister or two, it promises to be a trail to remember!

Suitable for all the family. No need to book. £2.50 per child 2 for 1 entry to the Gardens during the trail.*

www.hilliergardens.org.uk * For full T&C’s visit www.hilliergardens.org.uk The Gardens are closed 25 & 26 December.

November/ 2 December 2014

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Solent West Magazine

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SOLENT WEST MAGAZINE 8

Editor: Rebecca Carr 07789 882467 editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk Advertising: Claire Clarricaotes 07789 882467 ads@familiessolentwest.co.uk

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Next issue: January/ February 2015 Booking deadline: 1 December 2014 40,000 readers per issue Printed by College Hill Press Cover image: ©Ali Campbell Photography www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

In this issue....

@familiessolentw Find us and like us on Facebook Facebook.com/familiessolentwest

To include your business in our next issue call us today, we are taking bookings now.

Features for the January/ February issue include: • Family travel & holidays • Health and exercise • Family law • February half term and what's on

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News & views

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Christmas in Hampshire

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Family shows & pantomimes

13

Make a Christmas stocking

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Why does my child get homework?

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What's on in November & December

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Competitions

hats

booties

Copyright: Families Solent West 2014

Data Protection: if you send us your name and address in order to win a prize in a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the prize. If you would prefer us not to do this please state this on your entry.

Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent West not 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 consequence.

Families Solent West is part of a group established in 1990 headed by Families South West London. All magazines are independently owned and operated under licence.

clothing

www.etsy.com/shop/emilyandevelyn

A live Planetarium show with a Christmas twist especially designed with families in mind

November 29th - December 21st

Space Mission for Santa

100 Hands-on exhibits and the UK’s largest capacity digital planetarium November/ December 2014

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Blast off into space and help save Christmas!

Show includes audience participation and footage of Santa (please note there will not be an actual Santa in the Planetarium).

The show lasts 25 minutes and is perfect for ages up to 10 years.

Showings every Saturday & Sunday, and weekdays 15th - 19th December

Call 01962 863791 or book online at www.winchestersciencecentre.org Solent West Magazine

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News &Views

SOLENT WEST

Magical themed birthday parties from Scarlet Storm Entertainment A child's birthday should be a magical day when they are the centre of attention and every parent wants to make that happen. Whether it’s a birthday or other special occasion it needs to be a day to remember. As parents we have all been through that agonizing process of organising the where, when and what to do to make it a really special day and Andrea Williamson is no different. As a mother of two she knows first hand how important these events are.

However Andrea has a certain advantage in making sure it’s a success as she runs Scarlet Storm Entertainment who specialise in creating themed events and parties specifically for kids in venues from your local village hall to a big stately manor entertaining kids from 3-16 years and party sizes from 5 to 50. Whether it's to book one of the very popular disco parties, a themed event with competitions, balloon modelling or magic, to something completely bespoke, call Scarlet Storm for more information.

With Andrea’s background as a professional singer, actor and entertainer she’s bound to create that perfect event and leave the kids and family with a brilliant day to remember. For more details and information you can contact Andrea on 07884 443884, email: andrea@scarletstorm.co.uk or visit: www.ScarletStormEntertainment.co.uk

Father Christmas to visit Gambado, Eastleigh Prepare for a magical experience at Gambado Eastleigh this festive season as Father Christmas takes time out of his busy schedule to visit us! Our special ticketed events are the perfect opportunity to ensure your child will meet Santa this year and have lots of festive fun too. Our magical 4’s and under Christmas Toddler Lunch on Friday 12th December from 11am-1pm includes Christmas arts and crafts activities and a delicious festive snack box, whilst children 4-12 years old can rock around the Christmas tree with our Festive Disco on Friday 19th December from 6-8pm, whirl around in our tea cup rides, enjoy lots of fab games and not forgetting zoom around our super frame! We encourage elves, fairies and reindeers to attend as there are prizes for the best dressed and Santa will have a little gift for everyone he meets.

Visit: www.gambado.com/clubs/eastleigh or call 0238 001 8336

New Autumn & Winter range is now available at Etikett

With lots of adorable clothing for your little ones from newborn up to 8 years for little boys and girls and we also have premature wear from 1-2lbs birthweight.

If you are looking for something beautiful and different that allows your child to be a child, comfortable, fun and stylish, come and visit Etikett in Botley. We have everything from socks and shoes to coats and hats including shawls, blankets, towels, toys, gifts and accessories. We are a friendly, family run shop that prides itself on customer service. We are also an accredited christening retailer, plus we offer free gift wrapping on all purchases and loyalty cards. Find us on Facebook or visit our website: www.etikett.co.uk

Labels for Kids After a successful summer Labels4Kids are expanding their range with the introduction of personalised arts and crafts products made specially to your requirements. Take a look at some great gift ideas for Christmas on the website.

You’ll be surprised how many gift ideas you will find! www.labels4kids.com/gifts

Autumn and Winter range now in stock Etikett is a unique boutique specialising in classic, traditional and designer wear for babies and children 0 - 8 years.

* accredited christening retailer * shoes & accessories * toys & gifts * baby & premature babywear * girls & boys wear * free gift wrapping service & loyalty card * baby gift hampers - ideal for baby showers, birth congratulations, in stock and made to order 22 High Street, Botley, SO30 2EA. Tel: 01489 785829 I www.etikett.co.uk

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Solent West Magazine

Soldiers’ Journey From Home to War 1914–18 at SeaCity Museum The Soldiers’ Journey exhibition, running until 11 January 2015 highlights Hampshire’s critical role in the First World War. Opening at ten locations across the county, including SeaCity Museum and Tudor House & Garden, the exhibitions will bring this fascinating story to life with each venue featuring items of specific local interest.

Southampton was the main port of military embarkation with over 8 million troops departing between 1914 and 1918. Hampshire became the gathering ground for these soldiers and huge camps were formed in and around Southampton, Winchester and Basingstoke. In addition to the departing troops the county also saw a steady flow of refugees, prisoners of war and over one million wounded soldiers coming back to England.

The exhibition will explore the impact on the lives of local people and businesses during this extraordinary time and follow the soldiers’ journey through Hampshire before leaving through the port to go overseas.

All the exhibitions will include interactive activities for children whilst offering an opportunity for visitors of all ages to reflect on momentous events that touched the lives of millions of people and to remember them. For information about other Soldiers’ Journey venues go to: www.bigtheme.org.uk/1914

Stagecoach Fareham and Hedge End to perform at Her Majesty's Theatre It's a busy time for Stagecoach Fareham and Hedge End as they prepare to perform in multiple shows. On Friday 7th November students take to the Southampton Guildhall stage as part of the Festival of Remembrance. They then head to London's West End on Sunday 23rd November to perform at Her Majesty's Theatre. A term of performances is rounded off with the schools end of term shows in mid December.

Positive birth movement The positive birth is gaining huge popularity! Set up less than 2 years ago by mum Milli Hill, the movement has rapidly grown and boasts over 150 groups in the UK, with hundreds more worldwide. Free to attend, the groups are a place for all pregnant women, to share experiences, thoughts and feelings about childbirth. To find a group near you visit: www.positivebirthmovement.org

Should sex education be compulsory for all children?

The Liberal Democrats ignited a lively debate with their recent proposal for reforming sex education. Under the current system, sex education is only mandatory in state secondary schools – the new statement proposes the inclusion of free schools and academies, with ‘age appropriate’ teaching for pupils from Key Stage Two onwards.

In a statement, David Laws, the education minister, said: "We believe that by educating children about sex and relationships in an appropriate way, we can help them to make informed choices in their personal lives.” Although the move would be highly controversial, it is not without support. One parent commented: “ There are so many more sexualized images in today’s media, from music videos to internet exposure, than any of us had as children. I think teaching them about relationships and not just the biology of sex is long overdue, and will help kids to see through the media hype”.

For more information visit: www.libdems.org.uk

Sunday Lunch with Santa’s Little Helpers!

If you are interested in further details about how to enrol your child with Stagecoach, call Lisa on 023 8046 5006 or email hedgeend@stagecoach.co.uk SCARLET STORM ENTERTAINMENT

Magical Themed Birthday Parties!

H Fun themes and characters H Party games, music & competitions H Magic, puppets and balloons H Prizes for all the children

Sunday’s in December • Enjoy a 3 course festive lunch in the award winning Morn Hill Brasserie Restaurant on Sunday’s throughout December.

• All children under 12 receive a free gift.

• £18.00 per adult, £9.00 per child under 12.

For more information and to book please call 0871 942 9188 or email events@hiwinchester.co.uk

Parties from 3 years upwards, tailored to the children’s age. CRB accredited, fully insured, equity member with 8 years experience as a children’s entertainer

07884 443884

andrea@scarletstorm.co.uk www.scarletstormentertainment.co.uk November/ December 2014

WINCHESTER WINCHESTER

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AA Rosette Award

Solent West Magazine 5

News & Views

News & Views Walhampton, a hidden gem in Hampshire offering academic excellence for pupils

Stamp out bullying National Anti-Bullying Week takes place 17-21 November, with this year’s theme of Let’s Stop Bullying Together. The Anti-Bullying Week website is packed with resources for schools, parents and children, plus online workshops and short films on how to survive bullying. Why not take part in their Anti-Bullying Competition, too? ‘Let’s Stop Bullying Together’ is an exciting opportunity for children to get involved in AntiBullying Week by designing a gadget, drawing a picture, writing a story, song or poem, taking a photo, or shooting a film or documentary. Entries can be fun, entertaining, serious, creative, colourful or futuristic, so get stuck in now for the chance to win a prize of up to £300.

To accompany National Anti-Bullying Week, Actionwork is running Anti-Bullying Month throughout November, with a theme of Creatively Dealing with Bullying.

The Anti-Bullying Roadshow tours the UK with a packed spectacle showcasing a variety of strategies in dealing with bullying, and highlighting ways to empowerment. Music and science, strategies and up-to-date research on bullying are all used in the workshops, plus they run Anti-Bullying Puppet Shows for younger children and creative cyberbullying workshops for older kids.

Set within one hundred acres, Walhampton is a day, flexi and full-time boarding prep school that provides a striking balance of academic rigour alongside sport, drama, art, music and over 60 on-site extra curricular activities. A hidden gem overlooking the Solent, the school has one of the ultimate prep school settings in the country.

Walhampton is committed to education that offers each child true breadth and variety.

Few independent prep schools offer such a range of academic and extra curricular opportunities, from debating and general knowledge to sailing on its own lakes and riding in a professionally qualified equestrian centre. With small classes and outstanding teaching we prepare our boys and girls for 13+ Common Entrance and scholarships to senior independent schools including Winchester, Eton, St. Swithun’s, Canford, Clayesmore, Harrow, Radley and Bryanston.

Academic standards at Walhampton are excellent and were strongly endorsed in our recent ISI report. We have enjoyed 100% success rate in Common Entrance for a number of years. A warm welcome awaits you at our Open Mornings on the 30th January and 8th May 2015.

Please contact the School Registrar Tel: 01590 613 303 Email: registrar@walhampton.com www.walhampton.com

Bullying can happen to anyone at any age and at any time. National Anti-Bullying Week recommends ChildLine as an excellent resource on how to spot bullying, possible reasons of why bullying occurs and suggestions on how to stop it.

ChildLine offers free support 24 hours a day on 0800 1111 or www.childline.co.uk.

Find out more about bullying and how to stop it, as well as everything you need to know about Anti-Bullying Week at www.antibullyingweek.co.uk. The closing date for the Let’s Stop Bullying Together competition is 12 December 2014.

What will you and the kids be wearing on March 27th 2015?

Support Wear A Hat Day, a fun-filled, annual brain tumour awareness event helping to support research. The organiser, Brain Tumour Research, is asking families, children and schools across the UK to save the date 27 March 2015, and register now to take part. The involvement of families and school children in the campaign is poignant given that a brain tumour is the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40 and in many classrooms there remains a tragic reminder of a child whose life has been lost or damaged by this cruel cancer.

Register today by visiting www.braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday

The lunchbox your children will love The fantastic new FlatBox-LunchBox will revolutionise your child’s packed lunch. Not only is this new lunch box fully machine washable, it has two layers of insulation to keep food cold for longer and unzips to become a placemat, keeping food free from dirty surfaces.

Available in 9 different colours from £19.25, www.theniceststuff.com

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Solent West Magazine

Adopting with Hampshire County Council

Adoption overhaul

Across the UK over 6,000 children are waiting to find an adoptive family, but for 1 in 4 it is likely to remain only a dream. And for every year a child waits their chances of being adopted reduce by 20%. This year’s National Adoption Week, taking place 2-9 November, hopes to change that so that every child waiting in care finds somewhere they can feel safe and loved. Since its launch in 1997 National Adoption Week has gone from strength to strength, reaching people across the UK who want to know more about adoption and reminding them about the difference adoption can make to a child’s life. The National Adoption Week website is packed with advice and support for people thinking of adopting a child, as well as help for adopted children, birth parents and adoptive parents.

National Adoption Week is particularly relevant this year as new rules have just been introduced to speed up the adoption system and ensure more children get a stable loving home without delay. ‘We’ve seen promising progress in the last 12 months – a significant rise in adoptions and a huge increase in the number of adopters,’ said Children and Families Minister Edward Timpson, who has 2 adopted brothers, ‘but I’m determined to do everything in my power to make sure the 6,000 children waiting are offered safe and caring homes. Our reforms to the register, greater use of Fostering for Adoption and the removal of unnecessary delay will mean would-be adopters can play a greater role in the process and help ensure children are placed with a new loving family much more quickly.’

Hampshire County Council is continually looking for more adoptive parents to provide caring homes for Hampshire children. We are particularly looking for people who have experience of working with children and who understand the difficulties that children who need adoptive families may face. We also ask that you have a spare bedroom and the commitment to care for a child for the rest of their life.

Much like children, adoptive families come in all shapes and sizes. We only ask that you lead a child-friendly lifestyle and have the time and space for a child. Adoption will transform your life and we need to know that you are ready for the challenge.

You need to be ready to accept the child as they are and understand that what has happened to them might impact on their behaviour and emotions. Adoption is a life-long journey and we provide a range of support as and when you might need it.

To find out more contact our recruitment team on 0845 6035620 or visit www.hants.gov.uk/adoption

Find out more about adoption visit: www.first4adoption.org.uk or www.nationaladoptionweek.org.uk

All children to start learning a language at Primary school As of this term, teaching a language will become mandatory from Key Stage Two (ages 7 to 11). Schools will be free to choose from French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish, Latin or Ancient Greek. At Key Stage 3 the guidelines stipulate that a modern language must be taught. Most schools already have some provision for teaching languages, but the new guidelines mean that that there will be a more uniform approach across England, with a greater focus on grammar and written language.

According to the DfES programme of study: “A high-quality languages education should foster pupils’ curiosity and deepen their understanding of the world. The teaching should enable pupils to express their ideas and thoughts in another language and to understand and respond to its speakers, both in speech and in writing.”

Call your local Stagecoach Theatre Arts NOW: Southampton and Eastleigh 01962 771024 Winchester and Totton 01794 390601 Fareham and Hedge End 02380 465006

Visit www.gov.uk/government for more information.

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Solent West Magazine 7

Christmas time in Hampshire

Places to visit this Christmas Santa Cruises

Santa Specials

Blue Funnel Ferries 13th, 14th & 20th December Join Santa for a cruise of Southampton Docks and view the Cruise Ships (when in) and points of interest including the Berth of the Titanic. Scotty the Clown will keep everyone entertained, before a visit to Santa’s Grotto to collect a present. In addition the parents receive a complimentary glass of wine to help them relax while watching the kids being entertained, and the kids get a free soft drink. The boat is fully enclosed and heated, as well as having large open sun decks. Tickets are just £9.50 for Adults, and £8.50 for children. Visit www.bluefunnel.co.uk to book, or view sailing times.

To find out more and to book your tickets, visit the website www.watercressline.co.uk

A unique way to visit Santa

Join us for a cruise around Southampton with Santa and Scotty the Clown Present from Santa at his grotto plus free drink included for all

Meet the anima ls , see the beaut iful nativ ity scene and VISIT Father Christmas in His Grotto.

Saturday 13th December at 2pm Sunday 14th December at 2pm Saturday 20th December at 11am and 2pm

Children (3-14): £6.50 each* Children under 3, Season Ticket Holder Children & Special Needs: £4.50 each* Adults: £2.00 *Includes entrance to barn, grotto and present

REFRESHMENTS. FARM SHOP OPEN. OPEN DAILY: 6 th-24 th Dec: 10.30AM-4pm QUEUES MAY BUILD AT BUSY TIMES!

LONGDOWN ACTIVITY FARM

Off the A35, Ashurst. Tel. 023 8029 2837.

www.longdownfarm.co.uk 8

Join Santa as you steam on a magical one hour round trip through the scenic Hampshire countryside as he visits you in your seat! Santa gives every child a gift in a special souvenir sack, with soft drinks for children and wine and mince pies for the grown-ups.

Departing from either Alresford or Alton, Santa Specials are by advance booking only. Fares start from £16 and include all booking fees.

Kids Santa Cruise

A FESTIVE FARM EXPERIENCE UNDER T IF G A ONE BARN ROOF RY FOR EVE

CHILD PLEASE NOTE: THE REMAIN DER OF THE FARM WILL BE CLOSED

The Watercress Line 6-7,13-14 & 20-24 December

November/ December 2014

NO NE TO BooEkD JUST TUR , N UP!

Call 02380 223278 for more details or to book www.bluefunnel.co.uk

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Solent West Magazine

Christmas

Santa's Christmas Wonderland

Paultons Park 16th November - 23rd December

Visit Santa's Christmas Winter Wonderland at Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World this festive season for a magical family experience. Inside the Christmas Wonderland children step into a festive dreamworld, adorable animated characters greet you at your every turn as you make your way through the enchanted winter snow scene. Don't miss Rudolph and Donner the singing reindeer from the north pole, plus see the elves working hard to finish all the gifts and presents in time for Christmas Eve in the Santa Claus Toy Factory! At the end of the journey children meet Father Christmas and receive an exciting present.

Peppa Pig's house at Peppa Pig World at Christmas Peppa Pig World at Christmas is transformed with twinkling illuminations, seasonal music and giant Christmas trees. Santa in his sleigh with the reindeer from the series can also been seen and meet Peppa Pig and George in their winter scarves, hats and coats. At the 4D Cinema, join Reindeer Blitzen and Elf Bobo in the amazing 4D adventure film as they help Santa and save Christmas!

All visits must be pre-booked. Selected Paultons Park rides will not be open for Santa’s Christmas Wonderland please check www.paultonspark.co.uk for details and opening times.

Christmas Market Thursday 20 November – Sunday 21 December Sunday – Wednesday, 10am – 6pm Thursday – Saturday, 10am – 7.30pm

More than 100 attractive wooden chalets filled with high quality products, British crafts and festive foods.

A Festive Farmyard Under One Roof!

Longdown Activity Farm 6th - 24th December

Ice Rink Thursday 20 November – Sunday 4 January 2015 11am – 8.30pm (10am at weekends and daily from 15 December)

Farmer Bryan and Father Christmas will once again be opening the barn doors of the popular Longdown Farm Christmas Barn this year for an ‘animal magical’ Christmas experience for children.

(Please note: the rest of Longdown Activity Farm will be closed).

Set among the twinkling lights and Christmas trees, excited chicks will be waiting to meet the children so that they can share their Christmas wishes. Other favourite farm animals will be making an appearance too. See the peaceful Nativity scene, which will be watched over by our donkeys, and look out for Father Christmas’s tractor sleigh parked outside the Farmhouse Grotto. Father Christmas himself will be waiting inside the Farmhouse Grotto to greet the children and give them a gift.

This beautiful open-air real ice rink is a great place to enjoy some winter family fun.

T I C K E T S | £9.50 adults, £7.50 concessions, £5 children aged 4–7,

£30 family (2+2). Tiny Tots sessions for children aged 2+ are available at 9.45am, Monday – Friday until 12 December.

Opening Night Celebration with L anterns and Live Music Friday 21 November, 6pm – 9pm

A free event to celebrate the opening of the Christmas Market and Ice Rink with live music, a parade of paper lanterns and pyrotechnic display.

Admission: Under 3 years/ child season ticket holders/ Special Needs (all ages): £4.50, Children: 3 – 14: £6.50. Adults: £2

W I N C H E S T E R C AT H E D R A L B O X O F F I C E | 01962 857 275 I C E R I N K T I C K E T O F F I C E | 01962 857 276 O N L I N E B O O K I N G S | www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Visit www.longdownfarm.co.uk for full details.

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Christmas Market and Ice Rink

Winchester Cathedral 20 November - 21 December (The Ice rink runs to 4 January)

Winchester is the perfect Christmas destination with festivities focusing on the city’s cathedral. Inside there are Christmas services, while outside its close hosts the ever-popular ice rink and traditional Christmas market. With skating, carols and a market full of seasonal goodies, there is something for everyone at

At the heart of the market is the open-air real ice rink. A must for children and adults alike, it’s a great place to enjoy some winter family fun while working up an appetite for the treats on offer in the market. The team of trained ice

Images © Winchester Cathedral, Joe Low

Winchester this Christmas.

Now in its 9th year, the Winchester Christmas market, inspired by traditional German markets, is a firm favourite with shoppers.

With its rows of attractive wooden chalets each carefully selected for the quality of their products, it’s the perfect place to come for that special present which can’t be found on the high street. Many of the stalls specialise in British crafts with items ranging from painted wooden toys to handmade jewellery and ceramics. And for those who have already done their Christmas shopping, this is a wonderful place to soak up some festive atmosphere. Admire the dramatic cathedral backdrop and take in the general preChristmas excitement while treating yourself to seasonal favourites such as mulled wine, mince pies or stollen.

stewards mean that even the most nervous beginner can safely try out their skills while the size of the rink allows more confident skaters to enjoy the exhilaration of skating in such a unique setting. The most popular sessions are after dark when the flood-lit cathedral and bright lights of the market create a magical, festive atmosphere. For more information contact: www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

**** Win a family skating ticket*** We have two pairs of family tickets at Winchester Cathedral to giveaway.

See page 19 for details

Family shows & Pantomimes The Snow Queen

27 November - 4 January Nuffield Theatre www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk

In a frozen land far away, a Snow Queen kidnaps a young boy named Kai. His best friend Gerda, a stumpy, grumpy determined little girl is the unlikely hero who sets out to rescue him. On the way, she finds friends who will help her, and the truth behind the mysterious Snow Queen's identity and why she lives locked up in solitude in her Icy Palace.

This brand new adaptation is written by multi award winning comedy writer, Georgia Pritchett, who has written for Miranda, In the Thick of It, Have I Got News For You?, Veep and Wallace and Gromit.

Aladdin

Jack

Experience the magic of a traditional family pantomime in a beautiful Edwardian theatre complete with stunning sets, sumptuous costumes and jokes galore.

Adapted and performed by Patrick Lynch Fee Fi Fo Fum! It’s a giant of a show,

9 December - 4 January The Kings Theatre, Southsea www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk

Will our hero, Aladdin retrieve the lamp and win the heart of the Princess or will the evil Abanazar rule the land? Starring Antony Costa (from Boy Band BLUE) Marcus Patrick (Ex Hollyoaks) and Jade Ellis (from X Factor)

12 - 24 December The Berry Theatre www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

This classic fairy-tale gets the Lyngo treatment, so expect lots of surprises, a gripping story and beautiful images as Jack sells his cow for five magic beans and finds himself in the land above the clouds. It’s a show for the over 3’s (and their giants) with something for everyone – enormous shoes, tiny houses, showers of silver and gold, and a big, leafy explosion!

Suitable for ages 3+

12th - 24th December Tickets: £11 / £9 concessions

Suitable for ages 4+ and their families

023 8065 2333 10

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Solent West Magazine

Christmas

Sleeping Beauty

9 December - 4 January Theatre Royal Winchester www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Cinderella

13 December - 4 January Mayflower Theatre www.mayflower.org.uk Brian Conley will return to the stage as Buttons, joined by fashion expert, awardwinning television presenter, author and allround national treasure Gok Wan as The Fairy Gokmother.

Enchanted pumpkins, sparkling glass slippers, a pair of Ugly Sisters and a handsome Prince can mean only one thing, the magical pantomime Cinderella is coming to Mayflower Theatre!

Gok Wan will play The Fairy Gokmother, offering helpful style tips to The Ugly Sisters and creating the most magical ball gown in panto-land! Enjoy an exciting show full of catchy songs, dazzling dance routines, spectacular sets and all the usual panto magic.

November/ December 2014

What better way to celebrate the Theatre Royal’s centenary year by presenting Sleeping Beauty this Christmas?

Our dream of a pantomime tells the classic tale of a young princess who, through evil Carabosse’s curse, is doomed to sleep for 100 years and can only be awakened by love’s first kiss.

We once again will be spinning a magical tale in our own inimitable style, with fire-breathing dragons (and we don’t mean Nurse Nelly), a battle between good and bad (and we don’t mean the jokes), a time-travelling prince and a fearsome forest of thorns.Throw in live music, original songs and lots of audience participation and you have all the ingredients for another blockbusting family pantomime.

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Cinderella

11 December - 4 January The Anvil, Basingstoke www.anvilarts.org.uk A magical pantomime for all the family to enjoy staring Keith Chegwin.

Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs

12 December – 4 January Ferneham Hall, Fareham www.fernehamhall.co.uk ‘Eastenders’ star Stefan Booth is the star of this year’s pantomime Snow White, where he will play Prince Simon of Sofaria. TV Presenter Lloyd Warbey, best known for Disney’s much-loved Art Attack has also been confirmed as ‘Herbie The Huntsman’.

Peter Pan

6 December - 4 January Bournemouth International Centre www.bic.co.uk Children’s favourite and Blue Peter Presenter Barney Harwood is playing Peter Pan. Mark Benton will also be starring as Captain Hook.

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Christmas

The Shopping & Indulgence Show is the ultimate festive day out Norton Park Hotel 7 December

The Christmas Shopping & Indulgence Show is returning for the third year to The Norton Park Hotel, Sutton Scotney near Winchester on Sunday 7th December, from 10.30am - 4pm. Get ready for the party season and enjoy The All Woman Show with a festive twist, plus the added bonus of free parking! Tickets are now on sale with great show offers and discounts including a Free VIP One Day Pass to the Norton Park Hotel Leisure Club and 20% off any Facial or Massage until the end of January 2014 plus a free gift with every ESPA purchase over £40 For ladies who like to lunch, a great value two-course meal and combined entrance ticket is also available. The event aims to support local small businesses with over 50 exhibitors waiting to provide visitors with an opportunity to find services, products and special gifts for Christmas that they are unable to find on the high street. Throughout the day, there are on stage demonstrations and music from Diana Ross tribute artist, Gloria Miller. The show is supporting The Katie Piper Foundation, who is dedicated to improving rehabilitation for burns survivors. 50p from each ticket sold on the day will be donated to the charity.

Advance tickets are just £3 and are available from the website: www.allwomanshow.com or £4 on the day. For all the latest news on the event visit www.facebook.com/allwomanshow or follow on Twitter @allwomanshow.

Are you looking for a great way to meet family and friends before Christmas?

Why not visit the 4 star, family friendly Holiday Inn Winchester. Each Sunday throughout December the hotel is offering Christmas Sunday lunch with Santa’s little helpers. Each child receives a gift and the adults get to enjoy a fantastic lunch cooked by the hotels award winning team of Chefs. After lunch why not relax in the spacious lounge or take the five minute journey into Winchester City Centre and visit the Christmas market and ice rink.

Christmas Lights The Marlands 20 November

Santa's Woodland Grotto The Marlands 29 November

There’s magic in the air this Christmas at the Marlands Shopping Centre, Southampton. Join Cinderella and Prince Charming for a Fairytale Christmas Light Switch On event on Thursday, 20th November. Enjoy free entertainment and competitions from 4 – 7pm. Don’t miss as Cinderella as she switches on the Christmas Lights at 6pm. Plus, celebrate the opening of the Woodland Grotto and experience the magic of Santa’s arrival on Sunday 29th November. Join us from10am – 4pm for free festive fun!

Space Mission for Santa - Planetarium Show Winchester Science Centre 29 November - 21 December

A live planetarium show with a Christmas twist, especially designed with families in mind. Blast off into space and help save Christmas! This is a fun family show with a lot of laughs and excitement for the children as they fly around the solar system. Includes audience participation and footage of Santa (there will not be an actual Santa in the planetarium). Best for ages 5-10 years. Showings are on Saturdays and Sundays 29 November to 21 December at 11.30am, 1.30pm and 4.20pm or Monday - Friday 1519 December at 9.30am and 2.30pm Normal exhibition entry applies and you can add the Space Mission for Santa show to your visit for just £2.20.

Planetarium-only tickets are £5. Tickets may also be purchased online or call 01962 891925. www.winchestersciencecentre.org

Experience the enchantment this Christmas at the Marlands Thurs 20th Nov 4 –7pm: Join Cinderella and Prince Charming as they switch on our lights

Sat 29th Nov 10am – 4pm: Enjoy the magic of Santa’s arrival in the Centre

@intomarlands

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Solent West Magazine

Make a Christmas Stocking Make your own personalised stocking, an ideal Christmas gift or a heirloom to treasure for years to come … This is an easy project suitable for adults and children and a perfect way to boost your sewing skills.

Step 1- Marking out the shapes: Start by folding the red felt material in half. Mark out a “J” shaped stocking on one side of the felt. You can draw free hand shape OR download and print our template to draw around. The “J” stocking should measure around 15cm at the top and be around 35 cm in length.

Step 4-Blanket stitch the stocking: Grab the remaining “J” shaped stocking and line it up with the piece you just stitched the heart to. Then pin the two parts together to stop them from moving. Get your threaded needle and, beginning at that top, blanket stitch all around the edge. (TOP tip: If you find that you run out of thread, carefully tie a new length of embroidery thread to the old one with a small knot)

Materials needed: • • • • •

50 x 50cm red felt 30 x 30cm green felt Christmas ribbon 70cm long Needle, embroidery thread, scissors, pins, additional decoration Download and print easy-to-use templates to help you (www.sewpretty.me.uk/mystocking)

Step 2- Cutting the fabric:

Step 3-Sewing the heart:

The next step is to cut out all the marked shapes so that you are left with two red stocking shapes, green “top trim” shape and a green heart shape.

Take the green felt heart and one of the stocking shapes and place and pin the heart in the desired position on the stocking. Next get the needle and the thread and begin sewing the heart on the red stocking using a blanket stitch (as shown on the image below). Once you have gone all the way round make a knot on the reverse side.

Step 5-Creating the “top trim:”

Step 6-Putting the stocking together:

Take your green “top trim” felt and fold it in half. On the open end sew both short sides of the green strip with 1cm distance from the edge using a back stitch.

Pin the ribbon onto the trim (2-3cm from the top edge of the trim) and attach them using a back stitch to the top of the stocking (red felt). Leave the two long ends of the ribbon at the back of the stocking to make a bow.

Step 7-Optio

na

l finishing tou You may wis ches: h to decora te the stock by adding C ing further hristmas bel l, buttons, sn or personaliz owflakes e it by addin g a name to back stitch. it using a

Each member of the family can do their own.

Watch everyone’s creativity blossom!

Designed by Katy Essery of Sew Pretty www.sewpretty.me.uk November/ December 2014

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

11 Solent West Magazine

Homework

Why does my child get homework?

Homework encourages independent learning skills and backs up what has been learnt in the classroom. It shows both teachers and parents what a child is capable of and can also highlight what they haven’t understood during the school day.

How much homework should my child be getting?

It depends on the age of your child, however here is a guide to the amount of homework your child should be receiving.

Reception: 30 minutes a week Years 1 & 2: One hour a week Years 3 & 4: 90 minutes a week Years 5 & 6: 30 minutes a day Years 7 & 8: Up to 90 minutes a day

Should I be helping my child with their homework?

not a joint effort.

Your job is direction and encouragement to find the answers themselves.

It’s really important that parents take an interest in the work their children bring home, but you shouldn’t take over. Giving too much help will speed up the time your child is spending on their homework and it will also help to keep arguments to a minimum, but it’s actually detrimental to their learning.

Your child’s teacher isn’t interested that you are able to complete a fractions worksheet or design a poster on electricity. You should be able to do it. You’re a grown up!

However if your child can’t, their teacher needs to know so they can offer support in the classroom to make sure the topic is fully understood.Walhampton This is your child’s homework half page wide ad.pdf

•

Show your child you care about the homework they have been set. Try not to let your own dislike for a particular topic affect the way you work with your child.

•

Direct your child to focus their mind.

Before they launch into the task, encourage a ‘think through’. Ask them to tell you what needs doing and ask them questions about the task set.

How long does it need to be? Does it need doing on the computer or by hand? What ideas have they had since the homework was set? This direction helps them focus their ideas and work productively.

Tips for helping with homework

1

•

Make sure your child is eating well, getting enough sleep exercise. All this helps concentration both in the classroom and at home after school.

•

Create a homework routine for your child to stick to. Identify a regular place and a regular time, making sure it’s quiet and free from distractions.

Discuss the expectations you have and the consequences if the homework isn’t completed well. This will, hopefully, 24/10/2014 17:40 encourage good homework habits.

Walhampton a scientist, an explorer, a writer, a musician, an actor, an athlete, an artist, a thinker.

OPEN MORNINGS 30th January & 8th May 2015

Independent co-educational preparatory day, flexi and full-time boarding school, ages 2-13.

Lymington, Hampshire SO41 5ZG. Please contact the School Registrar on 01590 613 303 or email registrar@walhampton.com

www.walhampton.com

14 November/ December 2014

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Solent West Magazine

•

Reflect on the task once it’s done. Was it easier than they thought? What was good about the work they produced?

What do they need to work on?

•

Think carefully before introducing a reward system. This can lead to rushed results and the necessity to offer a ‘treat’ for every piece completed. Better to let them know from the start that homework is something that needs to be done, and done well.

•

Set a time limit on homework. This gives less enthusiastic children an end point they can see. Talk to your child’s teacher about how long particular tasks should be taking and bring the homework to an end at that point.

The teacher can see how quickly, or slowly, their independent work is being completed and both you and your child know that there is an end to the homework – even if it isn’t completed.

Homework - do you help?

We asked some local parents and teachers their thoughts on homework.

“Homework is a valuable learning tool providing an opportunity to extend learning away from the classroom in a more relaxed environment. It’s also a way to strengthen

the home/ school partnership and enables parents to see what their child is doing at school. Whilst we encourage children to do their homework themselves, input and support from parents is invaluable. That can be helping them with reading, the learning of spellings and multiplications or more involved project work. Parents are able to identify gaps in their child’s learning and provide extra support and guidance. We tell parents not to worry if they find something too hard and encourage parents to write a note in their diary. At the end we ask pupils to ask themselves “Am I proud of this work?””

John, School Teacher, Winchester

“Homework should be little and often and with no help! Little and often because consistently reviewing a subject means it's more likely to be remembered. No help because teachers need to know if homework is appropriate and they need to know how the student is performing not the parent!”

Bill Moody, Kip Mc Grath.

“When my son was in Junior School, I did find myself helping to get some of the homework done so we could enjoy the weekend. It wasn’t so much the ‘set’ homework but the additional extra bits that pile on the pressure - handwriting practice,

spellings, timetables, 10 minutes of reading.

When you’ve only got an hour before the next cricket match, do you insist they practice their timetables for ten minutes or create that Reduce, Reuse, Recycle poster required for science? Or is the poster something I can help with? I think they're only young once, let them enjoy it. Give me the crayons and I’ll do the poster! “ Jo, Mum of two. Southampton

“Over the holidays, we were asked to complete a project on a favourite hobby.

I admit I did some of it –the typing and formatting - while my 9 year old son rambled. I just wanted it over with so we could enjoy the holidays. I suppose it’s good to get them into the habit before they hit secondary school, but enough is enough!”

Anon.

“I’m really undecided about homework. We never seem to have time to get it done and it just seems to add to household stress.

The whole family has just spend most of the weekend making a Magical Castle. We did all have fun and bond but we do enjoy craft. However I can't help thinking, and I felt for the people who aren't very artistic, their children are then disadvantaged by not having the all singing all dancing castle... made by sad parents!”

Susan Kirkwood, Parent

1922 - 2012

A great education

is more affordable than you think... www.stmaryscollege.co.uk t: 023 8067 1267 57 Midanbury Lane, Bitterne Park, Southampton SO18 4DJ

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Charlton House

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Charlton House

St. Mary’s College Preparatory Dept

Educating Girls & Boys age 3 - 16 in a caring Christian environment

November/ December 2014

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Solent West Magazine

15

What's on this November & December Santa’s Christmas Wonderland 15 November Paultons Park

Twiglets

4, 5, 6 & 7 November (for 6 weeks) Itchen Valley Country Park (West End)

023 8047 5080. £36.00 for 6 weekly sessions of 2 hours.

Outdoor sessions for 3 and 4 year olds with their parents taking part in den building, campfires, outdoor activities, stories and games. 9.30am to 11.30am.

Booking required.

Family Sundays: Pied Piper – presented by Norwich Puppet Theatre 9 November

Winchester Discovery Centre

11am and 2pm.

When the Pied Piper plays his flute the rats run, the greedy mayor rubs his hands and the children dance… Norwich Puppet Theatre’s humorous and irresistible one person show combines a skillful mix of puppetry, foot-tapping music and storytelling and will have audiences young and old entranced. For ages 3+. Presented in association with Theatre Royal Winchester.

Family Sundays: Sid’s Show 16 November

Winchester Discovery Centre

Box office: 01962 873603 11.30am. £10. For ages 3+ Sid is setting out on a heroic quest to find out where in the world his favourite socks and shoes have got to - join in the adventure to the bottom of the sea, deep in the jungle or floating in outer space, and meet some funny characters along the way.

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market 20 November – 21 December

Winchester Cathedral

With its rows of attractive wooden chalets, many of the stalls specialise in British crafts with items ranging from painted wooden toys to handmade jewellery and ceramics. Come and soak up the festive atmosphere, browse the various stalls, admire the dramatic cathedral backdrop and take in the general preChristmas excitement.

©Winchester Cathedral, Joe Low

© Monsoon

Visit Santa’s Christmas Winter Wonderland at Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World this festive season for a magical family experience. Wander through a winter scene where animated characters, including Rudolph and Donner the reindeer, sing and dance. This is a ticked event. Book online at www.paultonspark.co.uk

Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink

20 November – 4 January Winchester Cathedral

This beautiful open-air real ice rink is a must for children and adults alike and a great place to enjoy some winter family fun. Trained ice stewards for beginner skaters.

The size of the rink allows more confident skaters to enjoy skating in a unique setting. Visit the website for times and prices. www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Opening Night Celebration with Lanterns and Live Music 21 November

Winchester Cathedral Outer Close 6pm – 9pm,

Join us for an evening of free entertainment to celebrate the opening of this year’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink. The event promises to be a feast for the eyes, ears and taste buds with highlights including live music from seven-piece jazz ensemble Funk

Lab, a procession of spectacular paper lanterns and an exciting pyrotechnic display. Come early to explore the seasonal food and drink and festive shopping at the Christmas Market and to take to the ice for an exhilarating skate!

The Christmas Market will be open from 10am and the Ice Rink from 11am.

Robin’s Winter Adventure 22 November

The Berry Theatre

2pm - £8 adults, £6 children family Robin’s Winter Adventure follows a young boy’s incredible journey with a feathered friend. But will facing his fears turn out to be the greatest adventure of all? An uplifting tale of change, bravery and friendship told with puppetry, poetry, music and magical design, for ages 4 plus and their families.

Join Pied Piper Theatre Company for a new play celebrating 30 years of outstanding children’s theatre.

ENJOY A FAMILY OUTING FOR Come and visit one of the only Tide Mills in the world, still working JUST £9 and regularly producing wholemeal flour.

Situated on the edge of Southampton Water, beside the renowned New Forest, there has been a mill on site for more than 900 years, it is now both a working mill and a museum. Come and see the mill harnessing the power of the tide to grind wheat into flour, which you can buy in the gift shop.

Whilst visiting the mill why not take a look at the history that Totton and Eling has to offer in the Heritage Centre.

Enjoy the scenery by taking a stroll around the riverside walks and picnic next to the Pirate Play Ship overlooking the water or just sit, relax and enjoy some refreshments in the Eling Creek Tea rooms.

The Eling Experience

0845 3133244 Tel: 08000 0000 000southhants@rugbytots.co.uk | yourname@rugbytots.tld 16

November/ December 2014

Home of the Historic Eling Tide Mill

OPEN Wed – Sun 10am – 4pm and Bank Holidays.

Some peak and off peak opening times may apply – check website or phone for details.

We are at Eling Lane, Totton, SO40 9HF. Tel: 023 80 869575 | elingexperience.co.uk for milling times.

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Solent West Magazine

What's on Christmas at Marwell

22/ 23/ 29/ 30 November & 5-24 December Marwell Zoo

Various times available. Please visit the website for details. www.marwell.org.uk Join the elves in their magical woodland and warm yourself with a glass of mulled wine or blackcurrant and a festive treat. Be enchanted by Mrs Claus whilst she reads the heart warming tale of ‘The Snowman’.

Create your own festive cracker before being called to meet Santa in his sparkling grotto and receiving a special gift* Meet our costume character reindeer and enjoy time with Santa’s elves creating some wonderful festive memories.

Christmas Fair

23 – 24 November

Petworth House and Park

10.30am – 3.30pm, Now in its ninth year it hosts over 120 artisans’ stalls and a huge variety of products. From unique jewellery and luxury home accessories to delicious jams and handmade chocolates, the Fair provides the perfect opportunity to purchase all your Christmas presents in one place. £5, children free.

The Snow Queen 27 November – 4 January Nuffield Theatre

www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk Box Office 023 8067 1771 .

Tickets: £10 - £22

Space Mission for Santa -Planetarium Show 29 November – 21 December

Winchester Science Centre

£5 Planetarium Only Ticket or £2.20 in addition to a General Entry Ticket. Pre booking is advised. 01962 891925 A live Planetarium show with a Christmas twist especially designed with families in mind.

Blast off into space and help save Christmas! Show includes audience participation and footage of Santa (Please note there will not be an actual Santa in the Planetarium). The show lasts 25 minutes and is perfect for ages up to 10 years.

November/ December 2014

Christmas at the Brickworks 30 November

Bursledon Brickworks

01489 576248. Adults £6, Children £4, Family £15 Always a lovely day out. Father Christmas pops in to check how his elves are getting on and to see the children. Craft stalls, live music, trains and maybe a traction engine or two.

Family Sundays: Fireside Tales with Grandad 30 November

Winchester Discovery Centre

Presented by Pickled Image Theatre. Cuddle up around the campfire as Grandad recalls a daring escape from a hungry shark. Exquisite puppets, captivating storytelling, beautiful shadow puppetry combine to create an enchanting show guaranteed to spark the imagination of everyone from 4-104. For ages 4+ . Presented in association with Theatre Royal Winchester

Nature’s Child 1 December - 8 December

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

Price - £10 (for 1 adult and 1 child). Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Booking is essential, call 01794 369318.

10am - 12noon A morning session of outdoor learning of forest skills and bushcraft through play and wild experiences for young children ages 3 to 6 years.

Little Foresters: Countdown to Christmas

2, 3 & 4 December

Itchen Valley Country Park (West End) 023 8047 5080. £3.50 per child age 2 -5 years (with parent). booking Required.

Wrap up warm and get those wellies on for our Christmas Little Foresters sessions.

Christmas activities, games, stories and food over the campfire. 10.00am to 11.30am morning session. Afternoon session from 1pm - 2.30pm

Christmas at Marwell – Superstar Day 3 December Marwell Zoo

www.marwell.org.uk For families of children or adults with additional needs .Tickets can be purchased via our elf hotline on 0844 736 4200.

Scrooge

4 - 7 December

Christmas at the Brickworks Sunday 30th November 2014 11.00am – 4.00pm

Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum

The Point

The Point Youth Theatre presents a brand new version of a Charles Dickens’ Christmas favourite. Follow Scrooge as we transform his story into one full of mischief and music.

In a world that is transformed by toys, where teddies can be actors and any one of us can be Scrooge, we’ll do all it takes to make Mr Grumpy Pants realise that Christmas is a time for fun and generosity, not money and moodiness. Dec 4 & 5 at 7pm Dec 6 at 2pm & 7pm. Tickets £7 and £6. Suitable for ages 4+.

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Adults £6 Concessions £5 Families £15

Always a great day out. Come and see Father Christmas in his grotto.

Activities for all ages, museum engines steamed up and working, craft stalls and amazing cafe A: Bursledon Brickworks. Swanwick Lane, SO31 7HB T: 01489 576248 W: www.bursledonbrickworks.org.uk

Solent West Magazine 17

What's on

Grand Pantomime Bauble Hunt – Cinderella

Norton Park Hotel, Sutton Scotney

Price - £2.50 per child. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Open daily 10-4 with last admission for trail at 3pm. Early closing Christmas Eve; Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day. In conjunction with The Mayflower Theatre’s Christmas Pantomime Suitable for all the family.

7 December

See page 10 for full details.

Sleeping Beauty

9 December - 4 January Theatre Royal Winchester

©Theatre Royal Winchester

Box Office 01962 840440.

See Our dream of a pantomime tells the classic tale of a young princess who, through evil Carabosse’s curse, is doomed to sleep for 100 years and can only be awakened by love’s first kiss.

Santa Specials

6,7,13,14, 20-24 December The Watercress Line

See Santa on a steam train - the perfect way to start Christmas!

Join Santa as you steam on a magical one hour round trip through the scenic Hampshire countryside as he visits you in your seat! Departing from either Alresford or Alton, Santa Specials are by advance booking only. Fares from £16 and include all booking fees. www.watercressline.co.uk

Comedy Club 4 Kids 6 December

The Berry Theatre

2pm - £8 adults, £6 children, family offer of four tickets £24 and five for £28.

Like the name says it’s a Comedy Club 4 Kids!

Cracking entertainment for everyone over six years old and under 400 years old (no vampires or Highlanders). We have the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best… but without the rude bits!

Father Christmas Special 7 December

Aladdin 9 December - 4 January

The Kings Theatre, Southsea Box Office: 02392 828282 Experience the magic of a traditional family pantomime in a beautiful Edwardian theatre complete with stunning sets, sumptuous costumes and jokes galore.

Gambado Eastleigh Christmas Toddler Lunch 12 December

Gambado, Eastleigh

From 11am-1pm, £8.50 for a toddler and 1 adult and annual members will save 10%. Tickets must be purchased in advance and numbers are limited. Please call 0238 001 8336 to book.

Jack

admin@bursledonbrickworks.org.uk

The museum is opening for a special one day Christmas event.

Come along for Christmassy stories, tree decoration making, festive refreshments and a visit to Father Christmas....if you are ready for more there will be a family Christmas trail round the museum as well. Numbers limited to 10 families per session.

18 November/ December 2014

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

Kids Santa Cruise

13, 14 & 20 December Blue Funnel Cruises

A unique way to visit Santa.

Join us for a cruise around Southampton, with Santa, and Scotty the Clown. Present from Santa at his grotto. Tickets are just £9.50 for Adults, and £8.50 for children. Visit www.bluefunnel. co.uk for times.

Woodland Christmas Parties for 2 – 5 year olds

15, 16, 17 & 18 December Itchen Valley Country Park (West End)

023 8047 5080 £4.00 per child age 2 – 5 years (parent free). There will be games, activities, a trail and singing round the campfire. Father Christmas will even be there! Mulled wine and mince pies for the adults (nonalcoholic drinks will be available), nibbles and hot chocolate or squash for the children. From 12.30pm - 2.30pm. Booking required.

20 December Tudor House

10-12noon & 1-3pm £6 Pre-book only Using a variety of beads, buttons and wires to create some crafty Christmas decorations, perfect for hanging form the tree! All materials provided.

Christmas Celebrations 20 December – 4 January Beaulieu Motor Museum

Magical Christmas activities for all the family. With carol singing, Victorian-style decorations and one of the largest outdoor Christmas trees in the New Forest.

Festive baking at Winchester City Mill 20 December

National Trust

11am – 3pm Normal admission charge only There’s nothing more Christmassy than the aroma of warm spices and baking, so come along to the Mill’s festive baking demonstrations, and find out how its freshly milled flour can be combined with locally sourced Hampshire produce to make delicious treats for you to sample.

12 - 24 December The Berry Theatre

It’s a show for the over 3’s (and their giants) with something for everyone – enormous shoes, tiny houses, showers of silver and gold, and a big, leafy explosion!

Bursledon Brickworks

01489 576248 Adults £4, Children (3 - 13 years) £6. Booking is required for this event. 01489 576 248 or email:

13 December – 4 January

Beaded Decorations

©National Trust-Winchester City Mill

Ladies – Shopping & Indulgence, The Ultimate Festive Day Out

The Snowman 13 December

SeaCity Museum

10-12noon & 1-3pm £5 Pre-book only. Get into the festive spirit by listening to Raymond Brigg’s ‘The Snowman’ before creating your own playful, clay snowman centre piece for your Christmas dinner table.

Please always check with the venue before attending any events listed in case details have changed since we went to press.

The Christmas Story 15 – 19 December

Winchester Cathedral

12 noon – 12.15pm. Children of all ages are invited to hear wonderful Christmas stories from around the world retold with the help of props and puppets. Cathedral admission fees apply or free for those attending the Christmas Create, Make and Take event at 11.30am.

Festive Disco 19 December

Gambado, Eastleigh

From 6-8pm £8 for 1 adult and 1 child and annual members will save 10%. Tickets must be purchased in advance and numbers are limited. Please call 0238 001 8336 to book.

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Creative Christmas Stockings 22 December

Southampton Art Gallery

10–12 or 1–3pm, £6 Get into the Christmas spirit by listening to the wonderful story The Empty Stocking by Richard Curtis and enjoy decorating your very own Christmas stocking.

23 December Holiday Boxes Tudor House

10-12noon & 1-3pm £6 Pre-book only Try making a personalised gift box to give to a loved on or to keep your own trinkets in. All Materials provided.

Solent West Magazine

Competitions WIN family tickets to the regions best pantomimes We have family tickets to giveaway for a family to see Jack at The Berry Theatre, Sleeping Beauty at the Theatre Royal Winchester and Aladdin at The Kings Theatre, Southsea.

To be in with a chance of winning one of our family tickets, complete our Pantomime themed word search below to find the missing pantomime and go to our website www.familiessolentwest.co.uk/competitions to enter. The closing date for all pantomime competitions is 5pm on 14 December.

Aladdin

Panto

Cinderella

Peter Pan

Dick Whittington

Puss in Boots

Jack and the Beanstalk

Sleeping Beauty Snow White

Missing Word

Box Office 02380 652333 www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

Box Office 02392 828282 www.kings-southsea.com

Box Office 01962 840440 www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

Terms and conditions apply. Only one entry per household will be accepted and winners must supply their full name, address and contact number on the entry form. No cash alternative available and some Pantomimes will have specific performances you can use the ticket for. Full terms are available on our website.

WIN a family skating ticket at Winchester Cathedral

WIN a pair of tickets to the Ladies Shopping & Indulgence Show at Norton Park Hotel on 7 December WIN a ticket to Gambado's Christmas Toddler Lunch To celebrate all things festive, Gambado Eastleigh are offering you the chance to win a ticket for their Christmas Toddler Lunch on Friday 12th December from 11am-1pm and Festive Disco on Friday 19th December from 6-8pm!

To win a family skating ticket to enjoy at Winchester Cathedral simply enter online at: www.familiessolentwest.co.uk/competitions

Closing date for entries is 30 November Ticket is for 2 adults + 2 children. We have 2 family tickets to giveaway.

T&C's apply.

November/ December 2014

Ticket includes a VIP day pass to the hotels spa club.

To enter go to our website

To enter go to our website

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk/competitions

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk/competitions

Closing date for entries is 8 December.

Ticket is for 2 adults. We have 4 pairs to giveaway. No cash alternative.

Ticket is for 1 adult and 1 child.

One one entry per household No cash alternative is offered.

Closing date for entries is 30 November.

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Solent West Magazine 19

Soldiers’ Journey SeaCity Museum

A major exhibition exploring Hampshire’s unique contribution to the First World War

11 October 2014 - 11 January 2015

November/ December 2014

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

Solent West Magazine