Families Solent West

Issue 40 I May/ June 2014

Free

SOLENT WEST

2014 baby and toddler of the year competition 1st prize £500!

Find out more inside

Cover image © M&Co

Summer holiday fun For 4—8 year olds

Fabulous parties at any age How to make a bee garden What's on in Hampshire in May and June Drama courses on the magical theme of Peter Pan Throughout July and August, our five day drama, dance and singing courses will take your child on an amazing journey to Neverland.

All material is specially written and our experienced leaders will ensure all children enjoy the fun!

Call 0845 400 1304 or visit perform.org.uk/peterpan

Southampton New Forest Winchester Eastleigh Hedge End Botley Warsash Park Gate Chandlers Ford Romsey Totton May/ June 2014 Families Solent West Magazine The really useful magazine for parents with children 0 - 12 years

®

Solent West Magazine

Your LOCAL guide for information and events for parents with children 0 - 12 years in Hampshire

Let our 40,000 + readers know about your business or service. Why not advertise with us in 2014, prices start from as little as £78 Features for our July 2014 Issue Summer holiday activities I clubs & classes Summer events I what's on and much more

02380 403247 I editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

‘I foster because I love watching the children develop and grow into their own person.’

Call now to find out more about fostering with Hampshire County Council

Need childcare?

Then let the Hampshire Childcare and Family Information Team help!

For information about childminders, day nurseries, pre-schools, playgroups, out-of-school clubs, holiday play schemes and free part time early years education in Hampshire, contact the Hampshire Childcare and Family Information Team on

0845 603 5620 Monday - Friday: 8.00am - 8.00pm Saturday: 9.30am - 4.00pm or visit

www.fid.hants.gov.uk

Email: childrens.services@hants.gov.uk

www.hants.gov.uk

www.hants.gov.uk 2

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®

SOLENT WEST MAGAZINE Families Solent West Magazine Editor: Rebecca Carr 023 8040 3247 editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk

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Next issue: July/ August 2014 Booking deadline: 2 June2014 Copy deadline: 6 June 2014

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Advertising Sales Claire Claricoates 02380 403247 40,000 readers per issue

In this issue....

Printed by Bishops

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Local and current news

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Fabulous parties at any age

7

Your local party directory

8

Dazzling decorations- Ready Steady Grow

9

Abbotstone wood - your local campsite fights nature deficit disorder

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Make a bee garden

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What's on during May and June

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk 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.

DISTRIBUTOR WANTED We are looking for distributors in the Eastleigh and Chandlers Ford area. If you have a few hours to spare every two months and want to earn some extra money, please contact Rebecca for more details:Telephone 02380 403247 or email: editor@fmiliessolentwest.co.uk

The UK’s No.1 school holiday day camps

Fun and affordable childcare in the school holidays

Call us on 02380 403 247 to include your business in our July/ August issue.

Fareham Swim School Specially designed Baby & toddler classes After school & weekend lessons available

Book online at www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 467300 May/ June 2014

• • • • • • •

Swimming lessons with a difference!

Beautiful warm, private pools Small class sizes. MAX 4:1 ratio Baby & preschool lessons available Confidence booster sessions Evening adult classes & 1:1s Whatever your age or ability we will help you swim.

For more info please see our website

www.farehamswimschool.com or call

01329 802 208 Families Solent West Magazine

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News

NEW! Perform Drama, Dance & Singing Workshops now available in Lymington & Romsey The only drama, dance and singing workshops for 4-8 year olds to focus on helping develop children’s confidence, co-ordination, communication and concentration skills.

Perform is not a stage school but will help give your child amazing social skills and the best fun of their week. We now have new classes available in Lymington and Romsey.

From May to July, Perform children will be diving down to a magical world full of watery adventures. They’ll meet Dolly Dolphin, Septamus the Octopus and Smelly-Fish-JellyFish. Learn to dance The Fishy Funk and by the end of term rescue the Lost Pearl from the scary Deep Sea Creature and best of all, the children won't notice how much they are improving their social skills along the way.

For more information or to book a free trial session call the Perform team on 0845 400

Etikett summer collection now available.

Etikett is a unique baby and children`s boutique, stocking beautiful and affordable clothing for children 0 - 8 years from everyday-wear to special occasion-wear with beautiful accessories, shawls, blankets, towels, shoes, soft toys and gifts, as well as christening-wear, flower girl and page boy outfits. We also stock and make lovely hampers and gift boxes to suit your budget. These are ideal for baby showers, birth congratulations and christenings. Etikett has something for everyone and for those who want something a little bit different for that special occasion. We also stock premature-wear from birth weight - 1-2 lbs. We also offer our customers a special loyalty card with discounts available on purchases made in the store.

Follow us on Facebook to view all our fabulous new stock and keep up with any news search Etikett Baby and Childrenswear of Botley Follow us for special offers and details on our celebratory 10 years in business this July. Etikett is open Monday – Saturday from 9.30am – 4.30pm with free parking in the square on Botley High Street.

Telephone 01489 785829 or visit: www.etikett.co.uk

Sylvanian Families shopping weekend Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 June The Sylvanian Families shop is having a weekend away from London and is teaming up with the Gill Nethercott Centre and the historic Whitchurch Silk Mill in Hampshire to bring you the biggest Shopping Weekend yet!

In addition to our shopping area in the Community Centre, we will be expanding our displays and activities area onto the Silk Mill lawn. As well as offering our usual fantastic range of Sylvanian products for sale, plus lots of special offers and competitions, there will be visits from your favourite Sylvanian characters! As a special treat, there is free entry to the Silk Mill for our collectors. The event runs from 10am - 4pm and there is free entry to Community Centre and Silk Mill. Refreshments, light lunches and afternoon teas will be available in the Silk Mill For more information call: 01256 895511 or visit the website: www.sylvanianstorekeepers.com www.facebook.com/sylvanianshop

Does your child lack confidence in Maths?

Highly experienced Maths teacher offers friendly, games-based tuition for 9-16 yr olds in Southampton and Chandlers Ford.

Phone Caroline on 023 8034 1776 or visit www.boostmaths.co.uk 4

May/ June 2014

Share your stories This May sees the return of National Share-A-Story Month, an annual celebration of the power of storytelling and story sharing. Run by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups, Share-A-Story Month is a fantastic opportunity to bring children and stories together, with a whole host of events running across the country. The theme for 2014 is ‘Imagination and Inventiveness’, celebrating with Dahl & Dahl and Puffin Publishers the 50th Anniversary of the publication of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Check out the website for plenty of ideas, activity packs, posters and competition prizes. www.fcbg.org.uk/national-share-a-story-month

Families Solent West Magazine

New drama, music and movement classes for babies and toddlers

How games can help your child with Maths?

Chuckle Chunes is a creative and fun singing, movement and drama class for babies and toddlers. Why not come and try a class for free? We run classes within Hampshire incorporating singing, movement and drama with plenty of props, musical instruments and enthusiasm! Each Chuckle Chunes class surrounds an adventure, theme or journey creating a unique and exciting experience for both parents and children.

Many children struggle with Maths at school, it can be hard for parents and teachers to know how to help them through a ‘mental block’ in the subject, but with the use of games, Maths can be smuggled in beneath the radar, and before long they are practising vital skills without realising it. This is how the Mathematics curriculum is delivered in sessions with Boost Maths Tuition. Tailor-made games are used to give children repeated practise in Maths skills which are vital for Key Stages 2, 3 and GCSE.

Classes are to be held at Issac Watts Memorial Church Hall, Winchester Road, Southampton on a Tuesday. Pre-walking age is from10am-10.40am and walking to 4 years is from10.50am-11.30am. The first class is free and when you initially sign up for your first term you will receive a free Chuckle Chunes t-shirt. For more information contact: Kelly on 07947 568 488, email: chucklechunes@googlemail.com. or visit

The highly visual and kinaesthetic nature of the lessons lends itself to children who learn best through seeing and doing. Pupils find it highly motivating and enjoyable. One parent said, “after attending the first session, the first thing he wanted to do when he woke up the next day was do his homework!” Children are in small classes with others of the same age and ability, being taught by a qualified and experienced specialist Mathematics teacher.

Jayden MacNally 2013 Winner

Rob Paul Studios, in Partnership with Wave 105.2 FM, are looking for bonny babies, terrific tots and cheeky children in their search for model children and calendar kids!

At venues across the South this summer, the search is on with Rob Paul Studios Baby and Toddler of the year 2014. There are fantastic prizes on offer with £500 awarded to the first prize winner plus framed prints, canvases and vouchers for the four entry categories. Plus, the winner will be featured on the front cover of Families Magazines and all the category winners and runners up will join the Baby and Toddler of the Year to star in a 2015 calendar which will be sold in selected Sainsbury’s across the South.

The competition will run across several venues including the Cascades in Portsmouth, The Meridian Centre in Havant, The Dolphin Centre in Poole and at a Sainsbury’s store near you. See the website for full details. At each location you will have great photographs taken, see them instantly on our specialist viewing equipment and select your choice for the competition and you can take home some fantastic photographs. The competition is free to enter but there is a minimum £10 purchase requirement. This year, Wave 105.2 FM Cash for Kids charity will also benefit from 50 percent of the minimum purchase price being donated to them.

For more details or to book tuition for your child please contact: Caroline on 023 80341776, email cc@boostmaths.co.uk visit: www.boostmaths.co.uk

Soft play fun at Jungle Jeans A truly magical experience awaits you at Jungle Jeans. Discover the sights and sounds of our play frame jungle while the adults sit back, relax and enjoy refreshments from the Tree Top Café.

There are spiral tube and racing slides as well as a climbing wall, plus there is something special for the really little ones too; play gyms with sensory toys, ball pool and soft play shapes, completely padded so you are totally comfortable and safe at all times.

Open Monday – Saturday from 9.30am – 6pm and Sunday’s from 10am – 5pm. Call Nikki on 02380 638120 or visit: www.junglejeans.co.uk

To find out more call: 02392 455255 or visit the website: www.robpaulstudios.co.uk/baby-and-toddler-of-the-year www.facebook.com/BabyandToddlerPhotoCompetition

Free entry for one child at Jungle Jeans Exclusive Voucher for Families readers Terms & Conditions apply. Call 02380 638120 for more details. Please cut out and take this coupon with you Unit N West Quay Industrial Estate I West Quay Road Southampton SO15 1GZ

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Families Solent West Magazine

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Picture credit © Petro Feketa - Fotolia.com

Fabulous parties at any age A birthday party is a ritual of childhood and an event that’s remembered forever.

So the pressure is on. Organising a child’s birthday party can seem like a daunting task – here are some age specific top tips for throwing a children’s party no matter what your budget or experience.

Age 1 – 3 Years

If you don’t want the party in your home try your local soft play venue.

Keep the food simple, as children this age will eat small amounts. A good suggestion would be 2 finger sandwiches, a small cup of chopped fruit, a few mini breadsticks or crisps and a small pudding such a pot of jelly or yogurt.

For this age group the party needs to be kept simple. Make sure it doesn’t clash with nap time (around 1pm – 3 pm). Older children can tolerate tea time parties later in the day, but under 4’s will be tired out and tetchy by this time!

Bear in mind that the younger the children’s ages, the more likely it is the parents will be staying with them. Make sure you have enough chairs and help with making tea and coffees. The parents would probably appreciate a few nibbles or sandwiches too!

Rather than trying to organise games for this age group, leave out plenty of interesting toys and activities. If the weather is good, encourage outside play.

Party bags for this age group are not really necessary. If you do want to give anything, a small toy such as a wooden jigsaw puzzle or a small piece of cake in

a pretty bag would make a nice gesture.

Age 4 – 8 Years This is age where parties really start to become fun! There are so many options with this age group for organized parties in different types of venues, which is great if you don’t want to have the party at home.

Popular themes include pirates, princesses, art parties, fairy, jungle and super heroes.

The cost of hiring a venue can shoot up.

Keep costs down by doing your own party food, and limiting the numbers you invite.

Church and village halls are an excellent option and are low cost to hire. 2 hours is about the right duration. If you book an

Summer 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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May/ June 2014

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10% discount for Families readers on orders placed during May and June Quote Familiesmay at the checkout

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entertainer for an hour, leave 30 minutes for eating and 30 minutes for other party games.

Picture credit © Konstantin Yuganov - Fotolia.com

This is the age when children will be left at parties without their parents, so make sure you have enough adults to manage, if your venue doesn’t come with staff.

Traditional tea party food, as well as pizza and the hot food often laid on by venues will be popular. It can be a fun idea to give each child their own individual party box of food, particularly useful if you have children attending with special dietary requirements.

Party bags are always a hit for this age group, and here you can spend as little or as much as your budget allows. A party venue will often supply their own party bags, but if you want them to be that extra bit special then do them yourself.

Try pretty paper bags, themed bags, pre-filled bags or party boxes and pails for something a little different. Choose from fillers such as low cost plastic toys, to more expensive but enduring wooden toys. Its nice to include items that tie in with the theme you have chosen.

Remember there is nothing wrong with harking back to a more simple time when children left parties with a balloon and a slice of cake. Try presenting in a pretty bag with a simple thank you tag.

Above all try to make the party your own.

Don’t compare to others and try not to make it too large. It can be tempting to invite the whole class, but unless you have a large budget and a lot of extra help, 8-15 children will be much easier to deal with!

Age 9 – 12 Years For older children, the traditional tea party may not seem as exciting as it once was!

This age group can be a bit harder to impress, but planning a party can still be just as much fun. Try to tailor the party to your child’s interests. Encourage your

child to brainstorm ideas for what they would like to do.

Popular themes for older children include disco parties, movie parties, climbing parties, pamper parties, sleepover parties and sports coaching parties. However don’t get too caught up in ‘entertaining’.

By this age children will have strong friendship groups, and are happy to be in each other’s company chatting and laughing.

If you’re planning a sleepover party, you’ll definitely want to keep the numbers down!

Party bags are still popular for this age range. Just choose one or two gifts, such as a science gadget, lip balms, bath bombs or even a bag of pick n mix in a traditional sweet bag.

This article was provided by Louise Plunkett owner of Candle and Cake 07515392712 www.candleandcake.co.uk www.facebook.com/candleandcake

It’s time to party at

Jungle Jeans

Come and join the fun with Hetty our very own Elephant We offer high quality and value for money parties that children will love. Our birthday parties cost as little as £70 for 10 children and include play and food. Plus, book a party for 15 children or more and the birthday boy or girl will be FREE.

023 8063 8120 I www.junglejeans.co.uk Jungle Jeans Ltd I Unit N West Quay Industrial Estate I West Quay Road I Southampton SO15 1GZ

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Local party directory

Active and Sport Parties Academy Studios

Romsey 01794 515129 www.academystudios.co.uk

Go Ape

Itchen Valley 0845 643 9215 www.goape.co.uk

Goals

Southampton 02380 510 666 www.goalsfootball.co.uk

Football parties Southampton

Little Kickers

Hampshire 07896 009651 www.littlekickers.co.uk

Football parties for 2 - 7 years

Mo'Roller

Southampton 023 8022 6439 www.themoclub.co.uk Roller disco parties

Rugbytots

Hampshire 0845 313 3244/ 3258 southhants@rugbytots.co.uk phil@rugbytots.co.uk www.rugbytots.co.uk

Rugby parties for boys and girls.

Southampton Climbing Wall Tim 02380 330 865

southamptonclimbingwall.co.uk Climbing parties for children 8+ years.

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Birthday Cakes Boodle Bakes

Kelly 07825108015 facebook.com/boodlesbakes

Whether you’re after a fabulous birthday cake or themed iced biscuits, cute cupcakes or a special celebration cake, at Boodles Bakes we can create the perfect cakes or bakes for all your special occasions.

Baked fresh to order, using local ingredients all our cakes are made with boodles of love, care and attention.

Music & Dance Parties Little Boppers & Little Players 07884 443884

scarletstormentertainment.co.uk Music themed character disco parties for ages 3 - 8 years.

Perform

Winchester and Lymington 0845 400 1304 www.perform.org.uk

Perform parties are high energy, fun, totally infectious and kids can't resist joining in with all of the activities. Based around a colourful theme and involving lots of lively games, we use the power of children's imaginations to get everyone involved. We offer an impressive range of drama themed birthday parties. Our enthusiastic party leaders are all fully-trained and experienced in captivating groups of lively children and there is a huge range of party themes to choose from.

Monkey Music Parties

Play Shack

Music parties with singing, dancing and props.

Hedge End and Southampton 01489 790794 www.play-shack.co.uk

Party wear

Venues

Etikett

Flemming Park

0844 822 1157 www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Botley Elaine 01489 785829 www.etikett.co.uk

Etikett is a unique boutique specialising in classic, traditional and designerwear for babies, girls and boys aged 0-8 years. Etikett also stocks a range of fabulous party wear for birthday parties, weddings and any other special occassion.

Soft Play Parties Gambado

Eastleigh Tel: 023 8001 8336 www.gambado.com/eastleigh Soft play parties and fun-filler parties for 1 - 12 years.

Jungle Jeans

Southampton 02380638120 www.junglejeans.co.uk

Parties are available every day, every hour and on the hour from 10am - 4pm. Each party lasts for two hours and includes: party, play a private party room, invitations and a birthday present. Optional extras include: filled party bags, themed balloon for each child, a piĂąata, face painting or crazy tattoos, a helium jungle balloon and an entertainer.

Eastleigh 02380 684800 www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk Various parties available from 0 - 15 years.

Marwell Activity Centre Winchester 01962 777547

www.marwellactivitycentre.co.uk Parties for 4 - 15 years

River Park Leisure Centre Winchester 01962 848706

Various activity parties

The Rapids

Romsey 01974 830333 www.the-rapids.co.uk

Themed wet and dry parties.

Watercress Line

Alresford and Alton 01962 733 810 www.watercressline.co.uk Hire your own private train!

Winchester Science Centre

Winchester 01962 863791 winchestersciencecentre.org Parties with 100 hands-on activities and party food for up to 20 children.

Families Solent West Magazine

May/ June 2014

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Abbotstone Wood – your local campsite fight Nature Deficit Disorder Nature Deficit Disorder, identified, and possibly invented by an American journalist, Richard Louv in his 2005 book The Last Child in the Woods hypothesised that lack of connection with nature was damaging children in all sorts of ways, including attention deficit disorder, a failure to understand the cause and effect and obesity.

He may have overstated his case, but most of us have some lingering idea that nature is important, and wild unsupervised play is particularly valuable for children. Those of us born in the 1950s, 60s and 70s have memories of a very different childhood -spending all day, from about the age of ten, rattling about on commons and parks in gangs on wonky bicycles. Not at all like the childhood of those born in the 1980s and 90s.

All of this was in the air when John Allison and Nick Welch opened their first campsite at Forgewood near Tunbridge Wells in 2010. They simply wanted to create the sort of campsite that they would enjoy - a chance to pitch a tent in

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May/ June 2014

the open countryside, with a campfire, the family dog and a minimum of rules and regulations.

It worked rather well, and now as part of their Camping Unplugged group, they have a new open country campsite in Hampshire, Abbotstone Wood near Alresford on the Grange Estate, and courtesy of the landlord Mark Baring, suddenly find themselves helping the fight against Nature Deficit Disorder.

At Abbotstone Wood, campers can pitch their tents, make their world, and sit around their campfire in open and un-improved countryside, while their children run through woods and fields doing what they used to do. In addition to enjoying the open spaces and playing in the woods, Abbotstone offers structured activities including bush-craft classes, and Forest Club, which provides the youngest campers with nature based activities involving mud and twigs.

of high culture and low campfire life, with a short walk between the two.

If you would like to do your bit in the fight against Nature Deficit Disorder you can get information about Abbotstone Wood Camping and our other sites at campingunplugged.com Abbotstone Wood is a very a special place and offers the perfect tranquil environment to get away from it all but staying in touch with all that makes Hampshire such a fantastic county to find out more call 07712 531696 or www.abbotstonewoodcamping.co.uk

The Grange Opera also runs a summer season, so you can enjoy a fine weekend

Families Solent West Magazine

Make a Bee Garden

by Robin Dean, The Red Beehive Company Of all the insects that visit our gardens, none are more iconic and important to us than bees, and they come in a surprising range of sizes, colours and shapes.

Honey and bumble bees are instantly recognizable to most of us as they buzz around, but how many of us could identify some of the other species of bee?

Whether we can identify them or not, one thing is common to all species they all need our help. Most bees would just like a little nectar and pollen. A lovely holiday project would be to plant a “Bee Garden”. There are a number of plants to choose from that are robust and require minimum care and will do splendidly in a small window box, planter

or large pot. Snowdrops, Crocus, Primrose and Bluebells (remember Bluebells are protected, so don’t go digging them up from a local woodland area) all make for a spectacular spring display. Rosemary, sage and lavender are also highly attractive to bees, and chives have flowers to tempt them - as well as making a tasty contribution to the kitchen! A catnip plant or two will keep your cat happy, as well as the having the local bees dropping in for a nectar and pollen snack.

that live in bee hotels are solitary bees, and unlike the social bees (honey and bumble bees) don’t make honey so therefore don’t have anything to defend.

This makes them really docile and perfectly safe to have around children and pets.

Now you have given them some food, why not make a bee hotel as well. For those of you concerned about encouraging bees to live in the garden, don’t be. Bees

To construct your bee hotel •

You will need some bamboo (around 1.5cm in diameter), string or garden wire, and a small saw to cut the bamboo.

•

Cut the bamboo into 15cm lengths, cutting each piece just before a node to give you a hollow tube with a natural sealed end.

•

Bind the bamboo pieces together with the string or garden wire, with the open ends all facing in the same direction.

•

Take the bundle out into the garden and find a secure place to fasten your bee hotel to. The open ends should face anywhere between east and south to get the early morning sun, with a clear flight path into the hotel.

Fun from dawn to dusk for everyone on Family Adventure Holidays!

AdventureHolidays.com

Prices fr om

£295pp

Brave enough for white water canoeing through a spectacular gorge and abseiling under a plunging waterfall? If not, how about gentler pursuits such as the spectacular bay walk at Mont St Michel, bike touring through coast and countryside or sunset beach walks?

Whether you’re seeking high-adrenaline thrills or a more relaxed holiday, Family Adventure Holidays offer something for everyone from tots to teens – and their parents.

Three action-packed summer holidays based in different regions of France are available from Family Adventure Holidays. Prices (excluding travel) start at just £295 per adult and £245 per child for seven nights full board with all activities and availability through the summer from 19 July to 13 September.

Families can choose between a fun-packed, all-inclusive holiday based at a chateau in Normandy; a high-octane watersports holiday on the Mediterranean coast; or a week’s adventure in the Ardeche where the highlight is the thrilling descent of the Ardeche gorge by canoe. All activities are led by professionally-qualified English-speaking instructors and holidays also include outings and evening entertainment with camp fires, kids’ games and barbecues.

Nothing is compulsory and there is a flexible choice of activities and accommodation, with the emphasis on making friends and having fun together.

For more details call 01273 803030 or visit the website: www.familyadventureholidays.com

May/ June 2014

Call now

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Baywalk in Normandy

Canoe descent down the Ardeche gorge

Relax by th e pool at ou r med advent ure centre

Holidays for a week memories for a lifetime ays in France

15% Discount on Family Adventure Holid

Call us today

01273 80 30 30

ABTA No.Y0554

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Families Solent West Magazine

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What's on during May & June

Out & About Sylvanian Families Shopping Weekend

Hampshire in Art by Warsash Art Group

1 May - 31 July 10am – 5pm Manor Farm and Country Park Price: Free (admission charge applies should you wish to visit the farm) An exhibition and sale of the work of the Warsash Art Group.

Members include professional artists and enthusiastic amateurs from across South Hampshire and new members are always welcome.

May Day Celebration

5 May 11am – 4pm Manor Farm and Country Park Price: Normal farm admission charge. Traditional welcome to spring with dancing, music and children’s activities on the farm.

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

Rise of the Dinosaurs at Marwell Zoo

National Mills Weekend

10 & 11 May Eling Experience Please visit their website for full details of this event. www.elingexperience.co.uk

Hedgerow Harvest

11 May 1pm – 4.30pm Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Free with normal admission Want to find out more about how to forage for food in he Hampshire countryside? Bring the whole family and come explore our hedgerows, learn from experts and from each other. This interactive foraging walk is part of The Tree Council’s new Hedgerow Harvest History project, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF). Through the project, The Tree Council is working with communities to celebrate traditional hedgerow conservation and the resulting harvest.

Guided sessions throughout the afternoon.

Summer at Exbury Gardens

Family Sunday - Pinocchio

11 May 11.30am Winchester Discovery Centre For ages 4+ £6 or four for £20 Follow Pinocchio and his grasshopper friend as they set out on an adventure – to find some fun! Hiccup Theatre join forces with acclaimed writer for children Michael Rosen (We’re going on a Bear Hunt) to bring Carlo Colloid’s classic tale to life. Live music, puppetry, physical storytelling and longer and longer noses combine in a magical combination for children and their grown ups.

Watercress Festival

18 May Watercress Line Celebrate one of Britain’s greatest culinary delights at Alresford.

This free food festival is a great day out with locally produced fare, arts and crafts, music and street entertainment. For more information, visit the festival website www.watercressfestival.org

Family Sundays - Dotty the Dragon

18 May 11.30am & 2pm Winchester Discovery Centre £6 or four for £20. For ages 3-7 From the company behind The Very Snowy Christmas and How to Catch a Star. Blunderbus is proud to present this enchanting fairy tale adventure with a very happy ending. This clever new show comes to life with an irresistible blend of live music, fabulous puppets and high-energy storytelling. Little people aged 3 - 7 will love this funny, heartwarming tale. But, big people will have lots of fun, too. You can’t help but fall in love with Dotty the baby dragon...

Don't forget to say you saw these adverts in

SOLENT WEST MAGAZINE

Award winning music classes for babies & young children WINCHESTER, ROMSEY, CHANDLER’S FORD, HEDGE-END E: winchester@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 02380 900178 The Church Rooms, London Road, Kings Worthy SO23 7JL The Botley Centre, High Street, Botley, SO30 2ES Shawford Parish Hall, Pearson Lane, Winchester, SO21 2AA Teachers required. Full training provided. Call for details.

12 May/ June 2014

Families Solent West Magazine

What's on during May & June Self Guided Family Sculpture Trail

23 May - 18 July Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Free with normal admission Tour a selection of our favourite Art in the Garden and Youth Art sculptures. Suitable for all the family.

Rise of the Dinosaurs

23rd May - 2 September 10am – 5pm/6pm Marwell Zoo Thompsons Lane, Colden Common, Winchester, SO21 1JH Rise of the Dinosaurs is the latest world-class event from Marwell Wildlife. This summer dinosaurs will inhabit this quiet, leafy corner of Colden Common, transforming it into a Jurassic jungle. Our awesome dinosaurs will enthrall adventurers as they come to life with animatronics, roaring or even spitting at anyone who dares to get near them. Rise of the Dinosaurs is included in the general admission price to the zoo that can be booked online at www.marwell.org.uk

Half Term Trail

24 May - 1 June 10.30am and 3.30pm Itchen Valley Country Park Cost £1.75 per trail pack. Come and take part in our trail round the Park

Outdoor Survival Trail

24 May - 1 June 10am – 4pm Royal Victoria Country Park Price: £1.50 Follow this self-guided trail to find all the things you would need to survive in the great outdoors.

May/ June 2014

Half Term Family Fun

24 May – 1 June 2014 10am - 6pm The Spinnaker Tower Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3TT Adult: £8.95, Concession: £7.95, Child: £6.95 www.spinnakertower.co.uk Join the Spinnaker Tower for a whole host of family fun during May half term, The Spinnaker Tower’s Sky Captain mascot Vugo, only introduced in February, will be jetting back in to entertain visitors, plus the brand new family trail will be available to challenge visitors, navigating the tower and exploring the views to find all the answers, discovering fascinating facts along the way!

The Spinnaker Tower

Half Term Fun – Woolly Week

24 May - 1 June 10am – 5pm Manor Farm and Country Park Normal farm admission charge A host of ‘woolly’ activities and demonstrations throughout the week. From 24 - 30 May, try your hand at spinning, knitting, weaving – activities for young and old. Why not follow our Woolly Trail and see what you can discover? 24 - 25 May is Sheep Shearing weekend, come and see our sheep take off their woolly coats!

Half Term Trail

24 May - 1 June 10am – 3pm Lepe Country Park Price: £2 per child Fun for all the family, pick up a trail card from the park office and return with the correct answers to claim your prize. No need to book.

Woodland Activity Day

27 May 9.30am to 3.30pm Itchen Valley Country Park Cost £20.00. Booking is essential.

023 8047 5080.

A day in the woods for 6 – 11 year olds den building, campfire cooking, games and much more.

Bush craft Fun

Peppa Pig

26 May – 1 June Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk Come and meet Peppa Pig who will be making personal appearances at various intervals on each day!

After you’ve seen the cheeky little piggy you can visit the petting farm to tickle the piglets tummies and enjoy the piggy washing too! Plus there will be Peppa Pig colouring activities and DVD shows. You can even get your face painted.* And it’s excellent value too!

Fares give you all day travel on the big trains!

27 May 10am – 1pm Royal Victoria Country Park Price: £6 per child Test your bush crafting skills and make a campfire. Join us for a picnic lunch while we make hot chocolate and toast marshmallows.

Drinks and Marshmallows provided – please bring your own picnic lunch. Suitable for all ages.

An adult must accompany all children. Please book in advance.

Clay Animals

27 May 10.30am and 12.30pm Itchen Valley Country Park Cost £1.50 per animal.

Come along and make any animal you like out of clay.

Families Solent West Magazine

13

What's on during May & June

The Watercress Line

Vikings Family Cruise

31 May Depart at 11am, return 1pm SS Shieldhall Tour of Southampton Docks to view 5 cruise ships. Ideal family cruise, with Viking activity on board marking 1000 years of King Canute being crowned King of England in Southampton Tickets: Adult £15; Children £7.50; Family (2 + 2) £40, 0844 357 2329 www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk SS Shieldhall, Berth 48, Dock Gate 4, Eastern Docks, Southampton.

Woodland Activity Day

Climb a Tree

28 May Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Cost: £15.50 p/p plus a small booking fee As part of our half term activities we bring you The Great Big Tree Climbing Company. Two highly skilled and friendly instructors can help all ages 6+ reach new heights within an oak tree’s canopy using ropes, knots and karabiners, whilst being securely attached in a harness at all times.

If you’re feeling brave take the zip wire back down! Enquiries to andy@ bigtreeclimbing.co.uk or 0800 0556760. Entry fees to the Garden still apply. An adult must accompany all children into the Gardens.

Gruffalo Walk in the Country Park

28 May 10am & 2pm Manor Farm and Country Park Price: £3 per child, 1 free adult with each child The Gruffalo comes to life in a guided woodland walk, learning about exciting local wildlife. Meet at the Kiosk in Barnfield. The Gruffalo © 1999 - Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler, Published by Macmillan Children’s Books.

28 May 9.30am to 3.30pm Itchen Valley Country Park Cost £20.00. Booking is essential 023 8047 5080.

A day in the woods for 6 – 11 year olds den building, campfire cooking, games and much more.

Lepe into Action

28 May 10am – 4pm Lepe Country Park The event is open to all and includes accessible activities for children and young people with disabilities. Have a go at climbing, cycling, archery, cricket, boules, orienteering and more.

Felt a Picture

28 May 10.30am and 12.30pm Itchen Valley Country Park Cost £3.00 per picture.

Come and get messy felting a picture in the traditional way.

Little Foresters Woodland Stories

29 May 10.30am to 12.00 noon Itchen Valley Country Park Cost £3.50 per child. Booking is essential 023 8047 5080.

An outdoor story and craft session for 2 – 5 year olds.

Family Cruise

31 May Depart 3pm, return 6pm SS Shieldhall See 5 cruise ships depart.

Shieldhall will proceed down Southampton Water: there, and on her return trip, will offer a photo of the 5 cruise ships as they leave Adult £22; Children £11; Family (2 + 2) £60, Call: 0844 357 2329 www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk or call:

Solent Gardeners Fayre and Crafts

1 June 10am - 4pm University of Southampton Sports Ground www.solentgardenersfayre.org.uk

Teddy Time Stories Goldilocks and the three bears

8 June 11.30am & 2pm Winchester Discovery Centre £6 or four for £20. For ages 3+ A wonderful introduction to theatre full of audience participation and the cuddliest form of storytelling we know of. Children are encouraged to bring their own teddy bears along with them to help Lily and her teddy bears tell the story together.

Sunset Party in the park

13 June & 5 July 6.30pm – 9.30pm Marwell Zoo Sunset Party in the Park: Marwell Sunset Party in the Park is back by popular demand! Join us for a party to remember! This year’s event has a Dinosaur twist where guests will have out of hour’s access to our Rise of the Dinosaurs event, be able to see the animals at sunset and enjoy special talks. Both nights have a whole host of animal talks and the events run from 6.30pm until 9.30pm.

War on the Line

14 - 15 June Watercress Line, Alresford Commemorate the 100th anniversary of World War I and experience life on a WW2 railway at this living history family event. With civilian and military re-enactors and vehicles, bomb disposal demonstrations, song, dance and merriment! Find out more and book your tickets in advance: www.watercressline.co.uk or pay on the day..

Sylvanian Families shopping weekend

14 & 15 June 10am - 4pm on both days Gill Nethercott Centre & Whitchurch Silk Mill Whitchurch RG28 7HP Free entry to Community Centre and Silk Mill.

The Sylvanian Families shop in London is having a weekend away!

Widest range of Sylvanian Families for sale, plus lots of special offers and competitions, creative activities and display marquee and best of all, visits from your favourite Sylvanian characters!

More information call: 01256 895 5 11 Refreshments, Light lunches and afternoon teas will be available

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

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.

14 May/ June 2014

Families Solent West Magazine

What's on during May & June in the Silk Mill.

Southampton Dog Show

14 & 15 June 8am – 5pm Royal Victoria Country Park Open show. Spectators are welcome. On the main event field

Docks Commentary Trip

14 June Depart 11am, return 1pm SS Shieldhall Learn the history and enjoy the sights and sounds of the famous Southampton Docks. Tickets: Adult £15; Children £7.50; Family (2 + 2) £40, Call: 0844 357 2329 or visit: www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk SS Shieldhall, Berth 48, Dock Gate 4, Eastern Docks, Southampton

Music Cruise on Southampton Water

14 June Depart 3pm, return 6pm SS Shieldhall Tickets: Adult £22; Children £11; Family (2 + 2) £60.

Call: 0844 357 2329 or visit: www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk

Meadow Madness & Wild Woods

15 June 10am - 5pm Itchen Valley Country Park Cost £1.00 per adult, Children under 14 are free.

A country fair with traditional craft stalls based in the woodland and on the meadow. Activities are available for children either free or for a small cost. Food and drink stands, falconry, green woodworking, coppice crafts, Forest School area and much more.

Mini Beasts Bio Blitz

15 June – Father’s Day Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Price – £1 per child. Adults free with normal admission. No need to book. In preparation for National Insect week (23-29 June), come and discover and help us record the biodiversity of insect life we have here at the Gardens.

Look to see who is hiding under the logs and in the leaf litter and who is living in the long grass and the wildflowers. Moth traps will be set up overnight so we can look more closely at the variety of night flying insects in the morning session.

Baby & Toddler of the year 2014 16 - 21 June The Cascades Shopping Centre Portsmouth Enter your little one into our photography competition. The winner will appear on the cover of Families Solent Wesr, Solent East and Dorset magazines.

Around the Island Yacht Race

21 June Depart 10am, return 4pm SS Shieldhall Trip to view the yachts as they near the finish. Tickets: Adult £35; Children £17.50; Family (2 + 2) £95. Call: 0844 357 2329 or visit: www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk SS Shieldhall, Berth 48, Dock Gate 4, Eastern Docks, Southampton Don't forget to say you saw these adverts in

SOLENT WEST MAGAZINE

WIN A family ticket to A Vikings Cruise Aboard SS Sheildhall

SS Shieldhall

Old MacDonald had a farm

22 June 11.30am Winchester Discovery Centre For ages 4+ £6 or four for £20 Written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, this fun filled farmyard tale brings to life all the best loved characters from the original nursery rhyme along with a magical medley of games, giggles and sing along songs including Heads, Shoulders Knees and Toes, She’ll Be Coming Round The Mountain and of course Old MacDonald Had A Farm.

Super Pet Dog Competition

22 June Queen Elizabeth Country Park Super Pet £4, Companion Show £2, first entry £1 The Homestead Dog Club are back again in 2014 with their annual Super Pet competition. This event is open to everyone and involves 20 fun challenges for dog and owner alike, including a prebooked agility competition and a companion dog show. There will also be stalls and refreshments. All proceeds go to Canine Partners.

For details contact Brenda Mizen on 023 9259 7160 or email: brenda.mizen@sky.com

Baby and Children's Market

28 June 2pm - 4pm The Romsey School Main Hall and Cafe Greatbridge, Romsey SO51 8ZB

www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk

A large range of stalls selling excellent quality pre loved and new items for boys and girls aged 0 - 8. Adults £1, Kids Free. Cakes and Refreshments are served in the cafe. Free Parking. To find our about further events in the area or to book a stall please visit our website or call 07580410594 / 07789076536

Expect a Vikings invasion in Southampton this spring, as Steamship Shieldhall sets out on a family cruise along Southampton Water some 1000 years after King Canute was crowned King of England on the south coast.

There will be Viking activity on-board - try your hand at putting on Viking armour and helmets and handle swords and axes; learn how the Vikings mastered the art of longship building and how they earnt their fierce reputation and more.

Entries must be received by 25th May. To enter go to our website. familiessolentwest.co.uk/competitions Only one entry per household. For T&C's see the website.

May/ June 2014

Families Solent West Magazine

15

www.watercressline.co.uk

www.watercressline.co.uk

26th May - 1st June

Meet Peppa Pig here at the Watercress Line!

It’s going to be a really exciting day out! Come and meet Peppa Pig who will be making personal appearances at various intervals on each day.

And there will be lots of piggy activities to do, including a piggy petting farm, piggy crafts and face painting too*! *small fee applies

www.peppapig.com

14 & 15 JUNE 2014

CALL 01962 733810 TO FIND OUT MORE OR CLICKETY CLICK TO WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd/Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003.

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Sylvanian Famili

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New Place, De Vere Hotel, Shirrell Heath Southampton

Skylark Golf & Country Club Whiteley Fareham

The Sylvanian Families Sho p in London is having a weekend away!

Dedicated Shopping Area Displays & Competitions Creative Activities Marquee FREE Entry to the Silk Mil l

Come & Meet

Your Favourite ters Sylvanian Charac

For further information visit www.sylvanianstorekeepers.com www.facebook.com/sylvanianshop Or contact 01256 895 511

07554 973 304 May/ June 2014

Families Solent West Magazine Families Ad '14 87 x 130mm.indd 1

03/04/2014 16:41