Families Thames Valley West Issue 51 Jan-Feb 2011

EE FR

January/February 2011

Issue 51 • www.familiestvw.co.uk

YES, YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL! Successful ‘Business Mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, healthcare, marketing, recruitment or a self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle.

Please call Mandee Lal 01753 202257

B U I L D C O N F I D E N C E • B O O S T C O N C E N T R AT I O N • M A K E N E W F R I E N D S • H AV E F U N

FREE Drama Class Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing classes. Our weekly workshops will work wonders for their confidence, concentration and social skills as well as giving them the best fun they’ll have all week.

Book your child’s FREE class today. Call 0845 400 1283 or visit perform.org.uk

perform.org.uk

0845 400 1283

has lots of exciting activities to keep your children fit, healthy and on the move.

CHILDREN’S SWIMMING LESSONS Bracknell & Thatcham • Non-swimmers & Improvers from 3 1/2 years • Snorkelling & Diving • Advanced & Club level swimmers • 6 children per class • Teachers CRB checked

StageAbility Stage Schools Wokingham Classes also running in Tilehurst & Lower Earley

After-school on TUESDAYS at Wokingham Youth Centre for kids who love to ACT!

T: 0845 050 8245 E: jackie@berkshire.stageability.co.uk W: berkshire.stageability.co.uk

• Term & Holiday courses available

( local rate ) rose@swimlessons.co.uk │ www.swimlessons.co.uk

Free uniform for new starters in January!!

The UK’s Favourite Dance Shop!

Dancia Reading 36-38 Prospect Street Caversham Reading, RG4 8JL Tel: 0118 9478123 www.dancia.co.uk/reading Mon-Fri 10am - 5.30pm MonSat 9.30am – 5pm Ballet Jazz Tap Modern Latin Ballr oom S alsa A Dance rgentine Tango Contemporary Street

Shoes and clothing for all styles of dance, expertly fitted by our friendly staff.

Shops throughout the UK. www.dancia.co.uk

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Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

inthisissue ISSUE 51 • JAN/FEB 2011

Visit us now at www. familiestvw.co.uk

4 News & Views 7 School News Including Open Days

12 Family Holidays Ideas for all budgets

14 Bumps & Babes

14 15 16 18 19

Yoga in pregnancy Having a second child Directory Baby massage Best baby products

21 Hypnotherapy What is it and how it can help you

22 New Year, New You 22 How to have a happier, more confident 2011 23 Get a New Year energy boost 24 Start your own business

26 What’s On Dairy dates and family theatre

30 Dangers of mobile phones 31 Prize Draws

Editor’s Letter

The turkey’s long gone and the last bauble has been packed away. Time to turn our attention to the year ahead. It’s likely to be a tough one for a lot of us but we aim to bring a little brightness into the gloom – and all for FREE – something of a bonus in these challenging economic times.

Read on and find out how to have a healthier, wealthier and wiser 2011 in our New Year, New You feature starting on page 22. We’ve got tips on improving your confidence, boosting your energy levels and even starting your own business. And if your resolutions to give up smoking/drinking/ nail chewing are faltering, turn to page 21 to discover how hypnotherapy can help.

The potential health dangers of mobile phones and wi-fi to young people and children are being reported increasingly in the media. We look at the latest research on page 30, vital reading for all parents.

And expectant mums can enjoy our bumps and babes feature which includes a useful directory of local pregnancy services, a great way to exercise and some advice on how to handle a second (or third!) pregnancy.

Wishing you all a very happy, healthy and, hopefully, not too broke New Year!

Karen and Jane

Competition Winners from Nov/Dec issue Nirvana Spa gift collection: Gemma Blake Winter Wonderland tickets: Georgina Tilby, Sarah Nall & Dani May Odds Farm tickets: Claire O’Leary, Tania Lobb, Sean Watson, Natasha Mitson & Jacqui Shepherd The Little Print Co. charm: Vicky Hill Artemis drama classes: Rachel Roberts Baby College classes: Edwina Nash Talent Stop classes: Sarah Bailey

Front cover photo features Close Carrier £57.50, www.closeparent.com 87x60:Layout 1 02/12/2010 07:23 Page 1

Next issue: March/April

Childcare & Nurseries

Easter Activities Editorial and booking deadline: 1 February To advertise in Families, call 0118 954 6893 or email adverts@familiestvw.co.uk To have copies of Families delivered FREE to your nursery, school, club or group, please email editor@familiestvw.co.uk Designed by Graphic Resolutions 01438 871 600. Printed by Warners Midlands PLC 01778 391 000, www.warners.co.uk. Copyright Families Thames Valley West December 2010.

Families Thames Valley West is part of a group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West London. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

See us at www. www.familiestvw.co.uk Visit us now now at familiestvw.co.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 3

News & Views

Visit online

me&i, a gorgeous range of kids clothes, is coming to the UK The me&i brand was founded by two Swedish mums in 2004 and their clothes represent Swedish design at its best – high quality, funky colours and cool prints that are really comfortable to wear. All the clothes are tried and tested by a panel of children for both comfort and looks.

With me&i, clothes shopping for the kids is a relaxed affair. A me&i representative will come to you and showcase the clothes so that you and your friends can get a really good look and feel.

If you are thinking about returning to work or just want

to change to a job that fits round your family, take a look at the company’s website as they are currently looking for people to join them as self-employed me&i representatives.

To find out more visit www.meandi.eu or call 07725 030 821.

Get the most out of the new year at: www.familiestvw.co.uk Sell unwanted baby and toddler items at: www.familiestvw.co.uk/ smallads Advice on boosting your immune system: www.familiestvw.co.uk/ boost Find out how to shine on the snow: www.familiestvw.co.uk/ ski-tips How to enjoy life’s simple pleasures: www.familiestvw.co.uk/ simplepleasures

Local Mary Poppins celebrates first anniversary Reading-based Elite Childcare Agency, which provides nannies across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, has just celebrated its first birthday and, to mark the big day, is thanking its customers with a complimentary baby sitting evening during January or February.

Founder and owner, Jenny Bohan, has had lots of experience as a nanny herself, so she well understands how a nanny works within a family. She told us: “We offer a very personal service through home consultations, so individual childcare needs can be matched to the perfect nanny.” She says the support for her agency within the local community has been overwhelming, with many families recognizing the value of using a nanny agency in their quest for their very own Mary Poppins. Elite also now offer mobile crèches, ideal for weddings and parties.

For parents wishing to find out more, Jenny is holding a free information event on 22 January at the Country Gardens Winnersh Garden Centre, 656 Reading Rd, Winnersh, RG41 5HG. For further details call 0118 901 8747, email jenny@elitechildcareagency.co.uk or visit www.elitechildcareagency.co.uk

Do you like fashion and design?

Are you outgoing and looking for a new challenge?

Do you want to decide your own working hours?

Come work with me&i!

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Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

News & Views Perform Plus

New clubs and classes for all (even dads) New in the Reading area are Talking Tots classes for pre-schoolers. Games, rhymes and interactive activities are used to help develop social confidence and communication skills. Find out more on page 25.

Older children will enjoy Perform Plus, opening in Wokingham in January. Using a mix of drama, dance and singing, the workshops are specially formulated to bring out the potential in every child. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention by the experienced actor/teachers who work exclusively with 8-12 year olds. The focus is on ‘The 4 C’s’ - Confidence, Communication, Co-ordination and Concentration – to help children develop their social skills whilst having fun. All children are invited to a free trial session. Please call 0845 400 4000 or visit www.perform.org.uk Mapledurham Gym in Caversham has launched a new Yoga Class for Men run by established yoga teacher Vikki Phillpott. With the promise of no incense, no chanting and no women, it is a class that will challenge some people’s preconceptions of yoga, and would combine well with a weights and gym programme. For more information please contact Vikki on 07729 490942 or email vikkiyoga@btinternet.com

What’s so great about walking?

Walking is a great way to get out and enjoy the area around you without even realising you’re exercising. It’s even been described as a near perfect form of exercise because it has all the benefits with very few risks. If going out for a walk alone seems a bit daunting, then why not join one of the walks organised by the West Berkshire Walking for Health scheme? There’s a walk running somewhere in West Berkshire almost every day of the week, including buggy walks that are ideal for new parents. All the walks are run by fully trained leaders and full of friendly faces. There’s no special equipment needed just a pair of comfy shoes and most importantly you can walk at your own pace. The only thing they recommend is, if you haven’t exercised for a while, that you get advice from your doctor before starting.

For more information please contact the Walks Coordinator on 01635 874 381 or email walking@westberks.gov.uk

Why not join a buggy walk?

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Thames Valley West

PAGE 5

News & Views Homes and Gardens: With Christmas out of the way and the weather often too cold to venture far, now is a great time to focus attention on your house and garden to get them looking good ready for the arrival of Spring.

Great gardens by design years at BCA and qualified with a HNC in garden design. Fiona Hill’s expertise is in plant design, and she also studied at BCA being awarded a distinction for the RHS Certificate in Horticulture level 2.

Their initial consultation is free, visiting you at home to view your garden and discuss your project.

The next stage agrees the brief and provides a quote for the design work. Ideas are presented via story boards and plans. They will fully cost your project and ensure their suggestions are within your budget.

A well designed garden can add a new dimension to your home. And, it will pay off in the long term; according to the experts a well designed garden can add 5% to the value of your house.

For more information, call Hill and Hughes Gardening on 0118 934 4784, email info@hillandhughes.co.uk or visit www.hillandhughes.co.uk

Stress-free de-cluttering Are you fed up with all that post-festive clutter? Those designer purchases that have been hanging forlornly in your bulging wardrobe; the extra chair that takes up too much room; or the Wii that was replaced by an Xbox at Christmas. You’d like to turn them into hard cash but know that you’ll never quite get round to selling them yourself. Then never fear, Debbie from Stress Free Trading is on hand to help. If you are too busy, or computer phobic, to do it yourself (that covers most of us) she will come along and sell

your unwanted goods on eBay for you. Debbie told us: “I’m honest with the people who call me and am happy to give advice on what is worth selling (or not). I do research on items before listing them so people get the best possible price and list them for maximum exposure and eBay traffic. Once they are sold I arrange collection or postage and then pay the customer accordingly.”

To find out more call Debbie on 079 1913 3457 or visit www.stressfree-tradingonline.co.uk

Watch those birds Ben Hall, RSPB Images

Although it may seem early in the year, like all home improvements, re-designing your garden takes time so start the process now by making a list of what you do like about your garden and what you would like to change. Look at gardening magazines for pictures that represent the style of garden you find attractive. Think about the style of garden you prefer, modern, formal or a cottage garden etc. An important consideration is how much time you want to spend maintaining the garden, and who will be using the garden. For example, if you have young children a large pond might not be safe; a water feature could be more suitable.

The team at Hill and Hughes Gardening believe in working closely with their customers however large or small the project. From a simple new border planting plan, to complete garden makeovers, they will make the most of the garden space you’ve got.

Carolynn Hughes studied garden design for two

Greenfinch

Yes, it’s that time of year again. It’s the Big Garden Birdwatch, and the RSPB are once again inviting us to get involved.

This year the survey takes place over the weekend of 29-30 January, when hundreds of thousands of people can be found with pen and paper in hand, checking out the birds visiting their gardens. Why not take the time to record all of the birds that visit your garden that weekend and join in the world’s biggest wildlife survey, while having fun with your family. All without leaving the comfort of your own home. You could even help smash the RSPB’s record of half a million participants - after all, the more results they receive, the clearer the picture they’ll get of what’s happening to our garden birds in the UK. Find out more at www.rspb.org.uk

Lit

Ac o

s rn

tle

(Colleton) Pre-School

... watch y our child grow in confidence

and skills

Set in the grounds of The Colleton School, Twyford, Little Acorns provides a happy, stimulating and creative Pre-school environment for your child to learn and develop in. We also offer: • Integrated care and education from 8.45am - 3:15 pm, term time • Admission for children from 2½ - 5 years old • Individual care and attention made possible by a high ratio of adults to children • Accredited by the Pre-school learning alliance and Wokingham Investors in children • Vacancies from September 2011 • Organic fruit and vegetables served free for snack time • Opportunities for you and your family to be directly involved in the activities of the group and in your own child’s progress

To arrange a visit or for more information please contact Rachel Blackwell on 0118 932 1629.

Email: manager.littleacorns@weyfs.org.uk www.littleacorns-twyford.co.uk ABC Building, Colleton Drive Twyford, Berks RG10 0AX Registered charity no. 1075323

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Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Education News

Forest School at Holme Grange Forest Schools offer an innovative educational approach, first developed in Scandinavia and now becoming increasingly popular in the UK. School children visit woodland on a regular basis and, through hands-on experiences, learn about the natural environment and how to handle risks and to use their own initiative to solve problems and co-operate with others.

Holme Grange School in Wokingham is the first school in Berkshire to adopt Forest School as part of their curriculum. The school’s extensive grounds afford pupils a beautiful setting for their activities. They told us: “For many children contact with the outdoors can be limited in modern society. The result being that the vital experience of using the outdoors and being comfortable in nature is lost.

“There are several key aspects to Forest School that differentiate it from many other outdoor education activities.

• The use of a woodland (and therefore ‘wild’) setting • A high ratio of adults to pupils • Learning can be linked to the National Curriculum and Foundation-Stage objectives • The freedom to explore using multiple senses • Regular contact for the children over a significant period of time (including all year round, and in all weathers).

“Forest School’s overall aim is to boost the children’s self-esteem and self-confidence as well as developing their awareness of the needs of others.

In addition, children are encouraged to take ownership and pride in the school and their local environment.”

To find out more about Holme Grange School and its Forest School please visit www.holmegrange.org or call 0118 978 1566.

Indoor and outdoor learning at White House Whatever the weather children at White House’s co-educational Nursery can venture outside to play and learn. The Nursery, rated Outstanding in its last Ofsted report, has a covered outdoor area perfect for rainier days and, when the sun comes out, the adventure playground offers lots of climbing and balancing fun.

Budding Bob and Wendy’s can get down to some building in the large construction area, whilst their green-fingered classmates develop some buds of their own in the gardening area. Inside, children are kept busy with dance,

drama, cooking, music and movement and P.E alongside their number and language related activities.

White House School and Nursery is an independent Christian day school in Wokingham for girls through to Year 6 and boys to Year 2. Children can start the term before they are 3. Morning sessions start at 8.30am and run until 12.10pm with the option of staying for lunch or throughout the afternoon until the end of the school day, ideal for working parents. To find out more visit www.whitehouse. wokingham.sch.uk

Reaching

over100

Independent Schools and Nurseries Thames Valley West To advertise call 0118 954 6893 or email adverts@familiestvw.co.uk

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Thames Valley West

PAGE 7

Education News ewery nths 10 NNursge 3 moept 20

a

m d fro ne pe O

S

Cut the worry of school fees with Waverley

The independent day school in Reading for girls aged 3–18

Waverley School has been providing first-class education for boys and girls in Berkshire aged 3 – 11 for over sixty years.

From September 2010 we’re going to be making some first-class offers, too.

SChoLARShIp oppoRTunITIES* (Years 3 – 6) Save around £3000 every year

FEE REDuCTIonS* (Reception – Year 3)

Up to 10% off annual fees * Subject to terms and conditions

VISIT

PEN DAY Saturday 12 February 2011, 10am - 1pm O (Alternatively please contact us to organise a time that suits you) CALL Any time during the school day on 0118 973 1121 MAIL waverley@cfbt.com CLICK www.waverleyschool.co.uk A CfBT school ADDRESS Waverley Way, Finchampstead, RG40 4YD

Experience the buzz of The Abbey Come to an open event where our girls will show you around and tell you why they love their school.

Junior School and Early Years

• Thursday 10 February 9.15 - 11.00 am For times of Head’s talks and for more information please visit our website. For enquiries contact the Registrar, Mrs Jackie Miles, on 0118 987 2256 or email registrar@theabbey.co.uk

www.theabbey.co.uk Families JanFeb.indd 1

10/11/2010 16:05:39

Our Lady’s Preparatory School

Open Mornings

Friday 4th and Saturday 5th February 9.30am -12.00pm

• Nursery, Pre-prep & Preparatory • Providing traditional Catholic education (all denominations and faiths welcome) independent education at • Outstanding affordable prices • Excellent record of children gaining entry into their first choice of senior school • After school tuition groups including examination preparation

Our Lady’s Preparatory School The Avenue, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6PB Tel: 01344 773394

www.ourladysprep.co.uk

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Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Education News

World Maths Day 1 March 2011 With World Maths Day just ahead of us, pupils from hundreds of UK schools are preparing to go head-to-head against students from across the globe in a huge international maths competition. This year, more than 2 million pupils from 37,000 schools across 200 countries will take part, answering over 500,000,000 questions in an attempt to push their classes to the top of the international league tables. There are

three age categories – 5-8, 9-13 and 14-18, and you can practice and play on your iPod Touch, iPhone or iPad. Pre-register now at www.worldmathsday.com But while the thrill of competition helps to sharpen some students’ maths skills (and prove that the subject is far from boring!), British children still have some work to do if they want to achieve the incredible consistency shown among the Malaysian, Thai and Hong Kong

Blue Peter Badges for Bearwood College Keen viewers of Blue Peter may have spotted some local faces recently. Seven Bearwood College students featured on the BBC programme training presenter, Joel Defries, for his very first hovercraft race. Complete novice Joel had to learn quickly as he needed to pass a test before being allowed to race at the Hovercraft Club of Great Britain’s UK National Championships.

But the Bearwood team did their job well; Joel finished a very creditable third in a Formula 3 Novice race and the pupils all earned Blue Peter badges for their trouble. Hovercrafting is just one of the many and varied sports and activities offered at Bearwood College. To find out more visit www.bearwoodcollege.co.uk

students who dominate year on year. World Maths Day aims to motivate parents into having a positive attitude to numeracy and to try to use it more readily in everyday situations with children. As part of this, the website www.zoobookoo.com has devised Ten Top Tips for Numeracy, with pointers on how to help your child learn. Take a look and maybe your child can take part in this truly unique world event.

After School Tuition for Children in Friendly and Educational Surroundings Does you child need additional help in their Maths and English or assistance in preparation for entrance examinations? Our Lady’s Preparatory School in Crowthorne is now offering individual and group after school tuition to improve core skills and to assist in developing confidence. Children from any school can attend classes from as little as £8 per hour.

The school’s tuition programmes are tailored to the individual’s capabilities and needs, helping them to achieve well in the classroom and in examinations. Tutoring to assist in reading and written English either to support or enhance your child’s existing skills is offered, as is additional help with Maths at Key Stages 1 and 2.

Our Lady’s, with a proven track record of getting pupils into their first choice school, also provides preparation for 11 plus entrance examinations, helping children achieve their full potential. Tutoring includes help with Verbal Reasoning, Non Verbal Reasoning, Mathematics and English.

For details, please call the School on 01344 773 394, email office@olps.co.uk or visit the website www.ourladysprep.co.uk

Free Schools in the Thames Valley Those of you who read our recent article about free schools may be interested to hear that Reading’s first free school is due to open in September. All Saints Junior School, in West Reading, has been given the go-ahead by education secretary Michael Gove and aims to provide 120 places for children aged 7-11 years.

The free schools scheme was introduced by the Government last year to allow teachers, parents, charities, religious and voluntary groups to set up their own schools. These would be free from local authority control and funded directly from central Government in the same way as academies.

Charvil teacher, Tara Zubairy-Moore is hoping that her ambitious plans for a free school will come to similar fruition. Her goal is to provide an alternative to mainstream education using drama to help bring lessons to

life. The mum-of-two currently runs Tara’s Academy in Charvil and Twyford, a performing arts school that also teaches literacy and numeracy classes. The new school would offer a full curriculum for pupils aged 7-18 years.

“This type of school would benefit so many children, particularly those that don’t thrive in larger schools” Tara told us. “I now need to find a site for the school, somewhere within a 10-mile radius of Twyford, and to prove that there is a sufficient level of interest amongst parents before applying for funding.”

Twyford mother Amanda West added: “I know my children would thrive in an environment where they have the opportunity to explore their learning through less formal and more interactive teaching methods.”

For more details or to support the proposal contact Tara on 0118 934 3920.

Viewuswww.familiestvw.co.uk Visit now at www. familiestvw.co.uk for the latest news

And over in the Wokingham borough a group of parents, fed up with the lack of any local secondary schools, have formed the West of Wokingham Group (WOW). Their aim is to open a free secondary school that would serve the villages to the west of Wokingham, an area particularly affected by the closure of Ryeish Green School. Children now face lengthy journeys to and from school every day and often lose out when school places are allocated.

WOW believe that the school they propose would act as a hub for the area, promoting a sense of community and responsibility reaching beyond the school gates. They are urging anyone who lives in the area to register their support at www.west-of-wokingham-secondaryschool.org.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 9

Education

OPEN MORNING FRIDAY 11th FEBRUARY 2011 9am - 11am

4

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Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Education Independent schools Open Days Licensed Victuallers’ School, Ascot (co-ed day & boarding, 4-18 yrs) 01344 882 770 www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk Saturday tours 15 Jan, 5 Mar, 21 May 9.4512.00noon. Open mornings Wed 9 Feb, Wed 6 Apr, Thu 5 May, Tue 7 Jun 9.30am-12.00noon.

Please telephone the Registrar to reserve a place.

Meadowbrook Montessori School, Bracknell, (co-ed, 5-12yrs) 01344 890869 www.meadowbrookmontessori.org Open Day Sat 5 Feb 10.30am.

Leighton Park School, Reading 0118 987 9608 (co-ed day & boarding, 11-18yrs) www.leightonpark.com Open Days Tue 25 Jan, Tue 15 Feb, Tue 22 Mar, Tue 17 May & Tue 14 Jun 10am. Please call school to register in advance.

Queen Anne’s School, Caversham (day & boarding, girls only, 11-18yrs) 0118 918 7333 www.qas.org.uk Open afternoon Fri 11 Feb, 3–5pm. Taster days Thu 17 Feb and Tue 15 Mar, 8am–4.30pm. Boarding taster weekend 26-27 Mar. Contact school to reserve your place.

The Marist Preparatory School, Ascot (girls only, 2 ½-11yrs) 01344 626137 www.themaristschools.com Open Morning Wed 2 Mar, 10-11.30am.

Reading Blue Coat School, Sonning (day, boys 11-18yrs, girls 16-18yrs) 0118 944 1005 www.rbcs.org.uk 11+ entrance examination Sat 22 Jan. Please contact the school for details

The Marist Senior School, Ascot (girls only, 11-18yrs) 01344 624291 www.themaristschools.com Open Morning Tue 8 Mar, 10am-12noon.

St Edwards School, Reading (boys only, 4-13 yrs) 0118 957 4342 www.stedwards.org.uk Open Mornings Fri 4 Feb & Fri 6 May, 9-11am.

Our Lady’s Preparatory School, Nursery and Day Nursery, Crowthorne (co-ed 3mths11yrs) 01344 773394 www.olps.co.uk Open Days Fri 4 and Sat 5 Feb, Fri 25 and Sat 26 Mar, 9.30am-12pm with staff presentation at 10am on the Saturday

Oxfordshire Cranford House, near Wallingford (girls 3-16yrs and boys 3-7yrs) 01491 651 218 www.cranfordhouse.net Private Tours and Open Mornings are available throughout the year, contact school for details.

Dragon School, Oxford (co-ed day 4-8yrs, co-ed day and boarding school, 8-13yrs) 01865 315405, enquiries@dragonschool.org, www.dragonschool.org Please contact school for dates of Open Days.

Shiplake College, Shiplake (day & boarding school, boys only 11–18yrs, girls sixth form) 0118 940 2455 www.shiplake.org.uk Open Days Sat 15 Jan, Sat 12 Mar and Sat 14 May, 10am for a 10.30am start.

The Oratory School, Woodcote (Catholic day and boarding school 11-18yrs) 01491 683 500 enquiries@oratory.co.uk www.oratory.co.uk Open Day in May. Please contact school for date and time.

The Oratory Preparatory School, Goring Heath (co-ed day & boarding school, 3-13 yrs) 0118 984 4511, www.oratoryprep.co.uk Please contact school to arrange visit.

Reading The Abbey School, Reading (girls only, 3-18yrs) 0118 987 2256 registrar@theabbey. co.uk www.theabbey.co.uk Open Day Junior School and Early Years: Thu 10 Feb 9.15-11.00am Caversham Preparatory School, Caversham (co-ed day school, 3-11yrs) 0118 947 8684, www.cavershamschool.com Please contact school to arrange visit Dolphin School, Hurst, Reading (co-ed 3-13yrs) 0118 934 1277 www.dolphinschool.com Tours available every day of the week.

Hemdean House School, Caversham (co-ed infant & junior, girls only 11-18yrs) 0118 947 2590 www.hemdeanhouse.co.uk Open Day Fri 28 Jan. Senior School Entrance Examination Sat 5 Feb. Highlands School, Reading (co-ed 2-7yrs, girls only 8-11yrs) 0118 942 7186 www.highlandsschool.co.uk Open Morning Fri 11 Feb & Fri 13 May, 9-11am.

Independent Day School with Nursery For ages 21/2 to 11 • • • • • • • •

Excellent academic results Small classes guaranteed Confident and articulate children Children achieve their personal best Caring, happy and supportive environment Breakfast and after school clubs Affordable education; bursaries available Co-educational through to Year 2

OPEN MORNINGS 9.30am – noon Thursday 10th Feb 2011 • Thursday 9th June 2011 Saturday 8th Oct 2011 • Wednesday 12th Oct 2011 w www.whitehouse.wokingham.sch.uk t 0118 978 5151 e office@whitehouse.wokingham.sch.uk White House Preparatory School, Finchampstead Road, Wokingham, RG40 3HD

St Joseph’s Convent School, Reading (co-ed 3-18yrs) 0118 966 1000 www.stjosephscollegereading.co.uk Open Morning: College, Preparatory and Sixth Form Wed 26 Jan, 9.15am–12.15pm

South of Reading The Cedars School, Aldermaston (co-ed day, 4-11yrs) 0118 971 4251 enquiries@thecedarsschool.co.uk www.thecedarsschool.co.uk Call school for further information.

Crosfields School, Shinfield (co-ed day prep, 3-13yrs) 0118 987 1810 pa@crosfields.com www.crosfields.com Open Morning Tue 25 Jan, 9.15am-11.30am, with Head’s Address at 9.30am.

St Neot’s Preparatory School, Eversley (co-ed day & weekly boarding school, 3 mths–13 yrs) 0118 9732118 www.stneotsprep.co.uk Open Morning Fri 4 Feb, 9am–12noon.

Wellington College (co-ed day & boarding school, 13-18yrs) 01344 444 000 www.wellingtoncollege.org.uk Open Day Sat 5 Mar (need to register in advance)

West Berkshire Bradfield College, Bradfield (co-ed boarding school, 13-18yrs) 0118 964 4510 www.bradfieldcollege.org.uk Tours most Saturday mornings during term time, by appointment only.

Wokingham Bearwood College, Wokingham (co-ed day nursery, prep and senior school, 0-18yrs, boarders accepted 11-18 yrs) 0118 974 8300 www.bearwoodcollege.co.uk Open Day Sat 14 May, 10am and group tours Weds 19 Jan & 9 Mar, 9.15am.

BearwoodFamMag_Dec(87x85)_BearwoodFamMag_Dec87x85) 16/11/2010 22

BEARWOOD COLLEGE Wokingham Open Days

Holme Grange School, Wokingham, (co-ed day school, 3-13yrs) 0118 978 1566 www.holmegrange.org Open Morning Fri 28 Jan, Fri 13 May, 9.30am-12.00pm.

Luckley Oakfield School, Wokingham (girls only day and boarding, 11-18yrs) 0118 978 4175 www.luckley.wokingham.sch.uk Open Mornings Wed 16 Mar and Wed 4 May 9.30am-12noon Waverley School & Nursery, Wokingham, (co-ed, 3mths-11yrs) waverley@cfbt.com www.waverleyschool.co.uk Open Morning Sat 12 Feb, 10am-1pm.

White House Preparatory School, Wokingham (flexible co-ed to Year 2, girls only Years 3-6) 0118 978 5151 www.whitehouse.wokingham.sch.uk Open Morning Wed 10 Feb, 9.30am-12 noon.

Wed 19th Jan Wed 9th March Sat 14th May Please call to confirm your attendance

Nursery • Pre-Prep • Prep • Senior • Sixth Form Independent day / boarding co-education from 0-18 0118 974 8300 www.bearwoodcollege.co.uk

More education articles – www.familiestvw.co.uk/education

in W di h th vid ere r i v ua e ls

Bracknell and Ascot

White House Preparatory School

Thames Valley West

PAGE 11

Center Parcs

Family Holidays

Holiday 2011!

We all need a holiday, but how are we going to manage it in the harsh new economics of the year into which we’re headed? Joanna Moorhead shares some ideas on how to make it work – whatever your budget (and even if you’ve no budget whatsoever!)

I

t’s that time of the year when our thoughts invariably turn, as we shiver in grey, cold Britain, to warmer climes and sun-kissed beaches. The kind of places we hope to end up in a few months’ time, when it’s summer once again, and we’re getting away from it all for those magical two weeks we call our annual holiday.

Of course holidays with kids are always tricky...and one of the trickiest aspects of all is financing them. And this year more than usual, finding the money to pay for a holiday is, for thousands of families, going to be harder than ever. But chins up – we’re not giving up! There are still ways to do it...and for those who do have some money to spend, the bargains are likely to be hotter than ever.

Woolworths.co.uk – Lakesbury 5-person tent

your deal, or to cut the cost. Make clear from the start that you’re looking for a holiday that offers great value. For example, Aztec Villas has wonderful villas in Cyprus that give you everything you’re ever going to need on a family holiday. The resort of Penera has everything on your doorstep – cafes, restaurants, beach, water park – so although they’re not a cheap option, you won’t necessarily need to hire a car. Plus, the company makes sure the villas are stocked with all the clobber families with young kids need but don’t want to have to lug around...pushchairs, DVDs, toys, balls, inflatables, Wii games. Prices are around £1,100 (not including flights) for a villa sleeping eight in August. For more information, see www.aztecvillas.com

Holiday for free Yes, you really can go on holiday without spending any money at all on your accommodation. Here are just some of the ways of achieving a cost-free break.

Houseswap: The world falls into two camps on houseswapping. There are those who swear by it, who’ve stayed in the best villas around the world because of it; and there are those who can’t think of anything worse than having to leave their house pristine for another family when they go away, and who fear being palmed off with some tenement hovel while its owners live it up in their luxury pad.

The truth about houseswapping is that it IS hard work...you might not be paying for your accommodation, but you need to go to a lot of trouble beforehand to make sure you a) have the perfect swap and b) that your own house is properly organised for the incoming family. Top tips from seasoned swappers are to find a family that’s as much like yours as possible, and to ask lots of questions and look at lots of photos of the place you’re going to. Also, don’t rule out swaps with friends or relatives – these can be easier to organise, and you can top and tail them with some together-time with your mates as you overlap at one or both homes. The NCT run a house swapping scheme that’s ideal for families.

Visit www.nct.org.uk/shop/ncthouseswap to find out more.

Wildcamping: it ain’t for everyone, but those who love ‘real’ camping say they really, really adore it. What it means is camping in the remote wilds – not on campsites (where you have to pay), but in the absolute back of beyond, where PAGE 12

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there’s no infrastructure at all. The downside, of course, is that it’s usually illegal (unless you have the landowner’s permission) but if you’re headed to Scotland you’re in luck since the right to camp on hill land is now enshrined in public-access law.

For more information, see www.outdooraccessscotland.com Work for your keep: Working holidays, in fact, aren’t usually free – but they are very, very cheap.

The National Trust, for example, has holidays from £90 a week including food and hostel-type accommodation. No previous experience is necessary, as you’ll be led by trained volunteer leaders and staff. The trust says it’s a great opportunity for families, especially those with older children, to spend time together as a family...you’ll be involved in ‘team activities’ and you’ll be helping to improve the environment.

Children must be at least eight years old. For more information, see www.nationaltrust.org. uk/workingholidays

Holiday for more If you’re going to spend a bit of money this year, you’re in luck because there will be plenty of choice – and you should be able to get somewhere that gives you excellent value for money, given that many families will be looking for a cheaper option.

Shop around: Tell travel companies about deals you’ve been offered by competitors – and see whether they’re prepared to throw more into

Go somewhere unfashionable: For 2011 for example, Mexico isn’t looking like the hottest holiday destination – but I was there last summer with my family for a fortnight, and though Mexico is a country with problems, those problems are light years away from your allinclusive hotel on the Yucatan peninsula. We stayed at Club Med in Cancun, which was superlative – it’s got the best position on the Cancun holiday strip, it’s well away from the business of the town, the food is delicious and even our older children enjoyed the teen hangout called, oddly, Carwash. Plus watersports, children’s clubs and childcare, pretty views, a great beach. For us, Mexico was a family holiday of a lifetime and it wasn’t a let-down – and given that the Yucatan is packed with all-inclusive hotels, and that it’s not had a great press of late, it should be a great place to get a lot more for your (considerable) outlay in summer 2011. For more information, see www.clubmed.co.uk

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Family Holidays

W

hen it works a holiday spent with other families can be fantastic, but when it doesn’t things can go spectacularly wrong. Clare from Woodley remembers the time she ended up physically attacking her (now former) best friend after a traumatic week in the South of France! But don’t let that put you off.

Imagine sitting back watching a big gang of children all happily entertaining themselves, whilst you enjoy some adult company and a nice bottle of Chianti; hitting the local boutiques with fellow shopaholics rather than a grumpy husband and children; and lots of noisy games of cricket on the beach. You’ll have someone to share the chores with, potential babysitters on hand and may even find some time to relax. But first you need to find some accommodation that suits everyone.

Holidaying with friends

Having your own space Sit down together and decide whether you really can cope with sharing one large property. You may decide that each family would rather have their own separate accommodation but on the same site. Center Parcs holiday villages are ideal for this with their self-contained lodges set in acres of beautiful countryside. And you don’t need to stay in the UK; they also have sites in France, Germany, Belgium and Holland – and the good news is these are significantly cheaper than their British counterparts. Find out more at www.centerparcs.com Further South a camp site is another good option and offers a range of accommodation from basic tents to top-of-the range lodges with air-con and dishwashers. Have a look at Canvas Holidays, www.canvas.co.uk, and Keycamp, www. keycamp.co.uk, for some ideas, but if possible travel outside of school summer holidays – prices can be surprisingly high even for a humble tent.

And do a price check before booking as many companies offer the same sites and prices do vary.

Sharing with others

Whinfell Forest Center Parcs

just £700 a week in high season – so for two families sharing, that’s quite a bargain. See www.recommendedfamilyholidays.com for more information.

The YHA run an ‘Escape To’ programme that allows you to rent a whole youth hostel for your exclusive use. Venues range from a small 10-bed Great East Barn in Norfolok sleeps up to 14, available from www.thebigdomain.co.uk

This can make your outlay a lot cheaper, because the costs will be divided between you.

Look for bargains like La Blanchere in the Vendee region of France – it’s a four-bed farmhouse set in a two-acre garden with a games barn and an above-ground swimming pool. It’s available for

More holiday tips at www.familiestvw.co.uk/holidayresearch

farmhouse to a Victorian mansion which can accommodate nearly 100 people. These, often unique, properties in stunning locations have catering facilities and many have dormitories – great fun for older kids. See www.escape-to. co.uk for more details.

At the other end of the scale take a look at www.thebigdomain.co.uk for something really special (with a price tag to match)! From rambling Victorian rectories to fancy chateaux in the Dordogne, this website features only properties that can sleep more than 12 people and which offer real luxury - designer kitchens, four-poster bedrooms, open fires, home cinemas, huge gardens and infinity pools. The Wow House Company offers similar luxury, although it does cater for smaller groups too.

Visit www.thewowhousecompany.com for more details.

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For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy Call Trish on 0118 977 0050

Earley, Woodley, Caversham, Tilehurst, Calcot, Burghfield, Purley & Arborfield

Call Vicki on 0118 973 4507

Wokingham, Finchampstead, Crowthorne, Bracknell, Sandhurst, Hook, Camberley & Yateley Birthday

Call Emma on 0118 979 2695 Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley & Charvil

Parties too!

Movement • rhythms • songs • instruments • games

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

Yoga in Pregnancy Henley Nannies

Established 1988

Supplying Nannies, Mothers Helps, Housekeepers, Couples & Babysitters Covering Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Hampshire & Surrey Tel: Jackie 0118 9843035

Email: jackie@henleynannies.co.uk Web: www.henleynannies.co.uk

MUSIC WITH MUMMY A fun introduction to music in small, friendly classes designed for children from birth to 3 yrs

0-1 yr JOLLY BABIES 1-3 yrs MUSIC WITH MUMMY For classes in Wokingham & Woodley call Clare O’Shea on 0118 903 4808 or visit www.musicwithmummy.co.uk For classes in Bracknell call Clare Klesel on 01344 451988 or visit www.musicwithmummybracknell.co.uk

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Yoga is an ideal form of exercise when you are pregnant. Suitable for complete beginners, its holistic approach offers a wide range of benefits. Breathing exercises, yoga postures and simple meditation enable women to cope better with the stresses and strains of pregnancy and to prepare mentally and physically for the challenges of labour and birth. Yoga makes you feel good too, balancing the mind and body and connecting you deeply with your baby (or babies!), great for twins too.

Deborah Ashford has been teaching yoga for over 15 years and runs Yoga for Pregnancy classes, suitable for women in their second trimester onwards. She told Families about her classes and the benefits they offer mums-to-be.

“When you are pregnant it’s nice to take time out to experience the practice of yoga. It not only helps you to connect with your baby, but also your body and mind, which is such an important part of your journey of self discovery towards the birth and arrival of your little one.

“Each week we focus on breathing, gentle postures and concentration (meditation). All of these help mothers to tune in to their body’s natural rhythm - which is very useful in labour.

Mums really enjoy the class, especially the relaxation at the end.

“Most women agree that it is ‘the breathing’

that helped them through their birth. We use simple breathing techniques to help us focus through times when we feel stressed and especially during labour to breathe through contractions.

“Yoga postures help to relieve lower back pain and the general symptoms of pregnancy, such as tiredness and aches, caused by the extra weight and by hormonal changes. To release tension in the muscles we do stretching using postures and also aids such as the ‘petzi ball’.

This is fantastic during labour, and for sitting on leading up to the birth. It helps the body to be upright and yet allows the pelvis to be comfortable and supported.

“Finally, we also use techniques for focusing the mind inwards to help us to stay calm and in control. Our mind and what we do with it is a very powerful tool! We use visualisation and positive affirmations as well as other methods to help with this.

“Women come in feeling tired but go out feeling more relaxed, energised and with a sense of being more `in touch with themselves.”

Deborah has ongoing classes & courses running from January. Book well in advance as places are limited. To contact Deborah call 07979 982 839, email astangadeb@yahoo.co.uk or visit www.yoga-centre.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Bumps & Babes When a woman is expecting her second child, she can often display anxiety over whether she will be able to cope with another child in the family and how the first born may react to the new baby. Julie Greatwood from Birthmatters, gives some advice on how to make the transition go more smoothly.

A woman’s fears about having another baby are often unfounded and many mothers cope very well when the newborn arrives. After all, the major life change comes with the birth of their first born – surviving on broken sleep, being responsible for another small human being and managing a chaotic household are skills already mastered! Of course second babies bring with them new challenges, but caring for a little one tends to be easier when you have some parenting experience. Second-time parents often describe themselves as being a lot more relaxed and confident in looking after their newborn and generally trust their instincts more.

In the antenatal refresher course that I run for couples expecting their second or subsequent child, I am often asked for tips on how to best to prepare for welcoming a new baby in the family.

Here are some of them.

It is important, to discuss with your partner how things are going to be organised after the new baby is born. The responsibility for household chores and the caring of older children and the baby are all important issues. Things can be made easier by getting shopping on line, hiring a cleaner for the first few weeks and enlisting the help of family and friends.

If you are going to introduce a change in routine for the older child, for example if dad will be doing bedtimes instead of mum, make sure such changes are introduced well in advance of the baby being born, so that the older child does not feel displaced.

When one becomes two help with the baby, fetching or carrying nappies or clothes. Ask the older child’s opinions on what they want their sibling to wear and what they think they are trying to say when they produce their first cooing noises.

Interact with your older child, showing them how the baby watches them, looks forward to seeing them and loves them. It may be a good idea to teach older children simple games to play with baby, such as peek-a-boo.

Be prepared for the fact that your older child may want more cuddles and attention than usual.

Lavish lots of attention and affection on your older child, get down to their level, make eye contact and look pleased and interested when talking to them. Try and build in time to be alone with your older child, as they will relish undivided attention.

Encourage visitors to pay attention to your first born when they come to see the baby. If your visitors arrives with a present for the newborn, then keep some little wrapped up present available for them to hand to the older child.

Try and ignore naughty behaviour as much as you can and turn a blind eye to whining and fussing for attention. This is not always easy when you are tired and your baby may also want attention.

Giulia and Emma with baby Stefano If you feel yourself getting angry and tense, develop techniques to make you stop and think about how you are reacting. You may To help your older child adjust make sure you simply need to stop take some lovely deep breaths, talk with them about having a new sibling, read drop your shoulders and count to 10 (or 100!) books together which tell the stories of babies before reacting. and having a new baby in the family, involve The rewards of having more than one child them in your antenatal care, as you feel are immense, and while it can be hard at times, appropriate for their age, and let them contribute life tends to settle down after the first year and to the preparations being made. To help the baby family life becomes more manageable and became more ‘real’, encourage them to talk to enjoyable. the bump and watch or feel the baby’s movements. If they are not interested, though, it Julie Greatwood is a Birthmatters antenatal educator is probably wise to let the subject drop for a who runs antenatal courses for first-time parents and while and sensitively try again a few weeks later. partners expecting their second or subsequent baby. For When the baby arrives, let your older child more information go to www.our-birthmatters.co.uk

Older children can react to a new sibling in a number of ways, depending on their age, sex and temperament. Common behaviours can include: • Jealousy with displays of hitting, pinching and snatching.

• Insecurity and clinginess displayed by night waking, being fussy with food, anxiety about separation and irrational fears.

• Regression, such as resorting to baby talk , pretend crying or wanting a bottle or nappy after they have been drinking from a cup and have been dry for months.

• Deliberate naughtiness and attentionseeking behaviour, such as breaking toys, throwing things and frequent temper tantrums.

Jo Jingles is Here!

Fun Music, Singing & Movement Classes for children aged 3 months to 5 years Develop your child’s • Social Skills • Confidence • Co-ordination • Language • Listening Skills • Imagination

For details on classes in: Winkfield Row, Forest Park & Bracknell Call Jackie on 01344 484473 www.jojingles.com/ascot

Henley-on-Thames, Twyford, Windsor, Maidenhead & Burnham Call Andreas on 05603 258601 www.jojingles.com/windsor

Find baby massage classes at www.familiestvw.co.uk/babyclasses

Thames Valley West

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Bumps & Babes

Elite Childcare Agency specialise in recruiting and placement of Nannies and Babysitters for families across Berkshire and South Oxfordshire.

• Nannies (full and part-time) • Babysitters • Mobile Creches • Au-Pairs

FREE Parent Information Day Sat 22 Jan 2011, 9:30 – 12pm Winnersh Country Gardens The Garden Cafe, RG41 5HG

0118 901 8747 Jenny@elitechildcareagency.co.uk www.elitechildcareagency.co.uk

Sima’s parties are structured, energetic, fun & set to music Sima’s Action Kids parties for under 6’s Sima’s Dance parties for under 11’s Sima’s Disco-bop & karaoke parties for under 11’s

Bumps & Babes Directory We’ve gathered together some useful contact details for mums-tobe and new mums.

Call Sima on 07956 993 439 www.simasactionkids.com

www.homebirth.org.uk - for parents considering a home birth with lots of birth stories.

Reading Homebirth Support Group - hold regular monthly meetings in Woodley. They provide a support network for people living in the Reading area that have had, or are considering, a homebirth, www.readinghomebirth.org.uk The National Childbirth Trust - excellent local ante and postnatal courses, social groups and events; breastfeeding counselling; nearly new sales; and a wide range of support and information including a range of telephone support numbers. Latest of these is the new Postnatal line, 0300 330 0773, open 9am–1pm weekdays offering support and information on concerns from baby routines to body image after birth, www.nct.org.uk

Antenatal classes Yoga in Pregnancy – classes in Lower Earley suitable for women in 2nd trimester onwards and for complete novices. See page 14 for more details, 07979 982 839, www.yoga-centre.com Sunrise Hypnotherapy - Fiona Grant teaches selfhypnosis in Caversham to help expectant mothers with pain relief and relaxation during labour. For more details turn to page 21, 05601 739 109/07810 716050, www.sunrisehypnotherapy.co.uk Berkshire Hypnobirthing - based near Reading, Vanessa runs antenatal hypnobirthing classes that teach parents-to-be proven techniques to shorten labour, manage pain, use self-hypnosis and visualisation, encouraging deep relaxation for a gentle birth and much more. Classes held at weekends, 0118 376 5548, www.berkshirehypnobirthing.com Lazy Daisy Birthing – new to Berkshire, weekly FEDANT compliant antenatal classes held in Reading and Tilehurst which incorporate active birth, pregnancy yoga, breathing, relaxation, and self hypnosis, 0845 465 0925, www.lazydaisybirthing.co.uk

Pregnancy advice and support www.birthchoiceuk.com – select the ‘Help with choosing your maternity care’ option. Contains a checklist to help you choose where you would like to give birth which takes you through the various options home births, different types of maternity units – and gives details of maternity statistics (number of caesareans, homebirths etc) in each area and for each maternity unit. www.nhs.uk/comparematernity - useful new site that compares local maternity units with lots of key information about each, including other people’s comments. www.babycentre.co.uk - loads of information and advice on all aspects of pregnancy and early parenthood. www.emmasdiary.co.uk - a week-by-week guide to your pregnancy and lots more.

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Birth Days Antenatal courses - based in Twyford, Vicky provides ante and postnatal hypnotherapy courses, private labour & birth preparation courses and yoga in pregnancy, 0118 326 9021, www.birthdays-antenatal.co.uk Bump Birth and Babies - Charlotte Whitehead runs yoga for pregnancy, baby massage and mother and baby yoga classes in Crowthorne and Wokingham, 07812 343 550, www.bumpbirthandbabies.co.uk Having Twins – Penny Price provides antenatal courses to parents expecting twins or more who live in Berks/ Hants/Surrey/Oxon/Wilts/Bucks/London and beyond.

Courses held in Reading or will travel by arrangement.

Anyone expecting or with young twins is very welcome to join their monthly coffee mornings held on the 2nd Monday of the month, 11am at the Oakwood Centre in Woodley, Reading, 07772 682 604, www.havingtwins.co.uk Lamaze Active Birth - Juliette Ward runs Lamaze Active Birth one on one antenatal courses in Reading which aim to help women and their birth partners feel really well prepared for labour and birth, however their labour unfolds and wherever they plan to give birth (at home, hospital or anywhere else), 0118 966 2156/ 07752 652 616, www.lamazeactivebirth.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Bumps & Babes www.stellinababy.com

Children’s Party Planners www.popinparties.co.uk

• Bear Making Parties • Fabric Painting Parties • Theme Parties Visit our website for current prices. or call us on 07764 849828 or e-mail: popinparties@tiscali.co.uk

Baby scans Future Babies - a private ultrasound scanning studio in Reading offering 2D dating scans from 8 weeks, 2D sexing scans from 18 weeks and 4D bonding scans from 20 weeks which produce a 3D image of your baby who you can see moving in real time, 0118 958 5050, www.future-babies.co.uk I Can See You - new Baby Bonding ultrasound studio in Yateley that provides a relaxing atmosphere and offers a range of Baby Bonding ultrasound packages.

3D ultrasound scans provide colour enhanced threedimensional images of your unborn baby. The 4D packages provide a DVD containing a 10-15 minute video of the baby bonding ultrasound scan, 01252 266 151, www.icanseeyou.co.uk

The Complementary Therapy Clinic - offer various treatments in Wokingham to help with fertility using homeopathy and reflexology. Also baby massage, 0118 989 4832 www. thecomplementarytherapyclinic.co.uk GetCalmer - Rebecca offers a mobile service with various massage therapies including a full body pregnancy massage. Also pre/postnatal yoga classes in Henley & Marlow, 0781 561 5803, www.getcalmer.com The Materntiy Network - by mums to support your choices for your pregnancy, birth and baby.

Free information, help and advice from experienced and qualified mum and therapist Louise Prince. Also directory of maternity-trained therapists, facebook chat, mummy blog. Ask questions of the panel of experts on the forum, www.thematernitynetwork.co.uk

Baby Scan Studio – ultrasound imaging for pregnancy and gynaecology in Marlow, 0844 556 0733, www.thebabyscanstudio.co.uk

Rachel McCallum Therapies – maternity reflexology and pregnancy massage, 0118 975 8236, www.rachelmccallum-homeopathy.co.uk

Doulas & Independent midwives

Total Health - Val Watts is a cranial osteopath who works regularly with pregnant women as well as new babies. Based in Tilehurst, 0118 941 1212, www.amblecote-osteopathy.co.uk

www.independentmidwives.org.uk – independent midwives work on a self-employed basis outside the NHS, typically offering one-on-one care throughout pregnancy and birth. Contains details of local midwives. www.midwivesonline.com – contains lots of useful information compiled by qualified professionals and covering all aspects of fertility, pregnancy and birth. www.doula.org.uk – doulas are experienced women who offer emotional and practical support to a woman (or couple) before, during and after childbirth. Find out more and details of local doulas here.

Baby Harmony Doula Services - doula service based in Caversham run by Michele Walker, 07713 772005, www.babyharmony.co.uk New Life Midwifery - Amber Thatcher is an independent midwife based in Tadley, 0118 981 9628, www.newlifemidwifery.co.uk Second Nurture – doula service near Henley run by Callie covering Berks/Oxon/North Hants/West Surrey, 07765 773008/ 0118 946 2142, www.secondnurture.co.uk

Holistic Therapists

Wallis Health - Jeanette Wallis specialises in reflexology during pregnancy and for fertility problems using NLP (neuro-lingual-programming) techniques. She is also very experienced in aromatherapy massages during pregnancy, 01628 633 475, www.wallishealth.co.uk

Exercise Buggyfit - fitness class for mums with their babies/ toddlers - come rain or shine. Suitable for all buggies.

All abilities catered for. No joining fee. Classes include aerobic and toning exercise. Contact Gill Cook in Wokingham & Bracknell, 07760 178 921; Cheryl Salmon in Burghfield, Mortimer & Theale, 07962 167899; Julie Anderson in Goring & Streatley, 0118 941 6389/07817 154342; Kate Murphy in Henley & Wargrave, 07814 072 316; and Elizabeth Masters in Newbury, Pangbourne & Thatcham, 07920 826 966.

FitMama - provides pregnancy and postnatal exercise in Basingstoke and North Hampshire and has been operating since 2005. FitMama teaches pilates, fitness, breathing and pushing techniques, to help you train and focus your pregnant body ready for delivery and beyond, 01256 369 291, www.fitmama.org

The Harrison Clinic - in Arborfield offers all of its treatments to pregnant women including osteopathy, physiotherapy and acupuncture. They have dedicated children’s cranial osteopathic clinics too. Toys everywhere and no white coats! 0118 976 2253, www.harrisonclinic.co.uk

Shops & hire services

Celtic Touch - Linda Cook, based in Woodley, is an holistic therapist specialising in ante and postnatal pregnancy massage along with maternity reflexology for fertility, pregnancy and postnatal care. Now also available as a birth companion, 0118 969 7461, www.celtictouch.co.uk

Monicas - at 170 High Street, Crowthorne is an extensive stockist of Mayoral children’s clothing age 0-8yrs, baby accessories, bags, blankets and wicker cots, Coco Stieff and Absorba baby wear, Fofito shoes size 16-31, pram shoes and much more. Also a Trutex stockist, 01344 777 489.

CK’s Holistic Therapies – former Berkshire Midwifery Centre worker specialising in holistic therapies for women during the pre-conception, pregnancy, labour and postnatal periods, 07753 555181, www.cksmaternitytherapies.co.uk

A wide range of Bouncy Castles, Slides, Soft Play, Go Karts and Sumo Suits for hire 364 days a year! For Indoor and Outdoor use.

www.bigonbouncing.co.uk 01628 410736/07926 751243

Blue Moon – new baby shop at 30 Market Place, Henley selling clothes, books, gifts, organic products and nursery products, 01491 598 286, www.bluemoonbabyshop.com

Poco Ropa – offers classic baby and children’s clothing at their shop in Crowthorne and at their online store. Also Continental cribs, cots, Moses basket and prams. From that very important first vest to that special party dress, Poco Ropa has it to offer, 01344 774230, www.pocoropa.co.uk

Buy or sell baby products at www.familiestvw.co.uk/smallads

Thames Valley West

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Bumps & Babes

The magic of touch Benefits to baby • Can help digestion and reduce symptoms of colic and constipation • Increases feelings of security • Strengthens the immune system and benefits skin and circulation • Stimulates production of oxytocin, which is useful as a pain reliever and has a calming effect, helping with irritability, sleeplessness and teething

Benefits to you

Don’t forget to tell advertisers you heard about them in Families To advertise call 0118 954 6893 or email adverts@familiestvw.co.uk

Daisy Birthing™ is a gentle relaxed - active birthing concept created by the Lazy Daisy team. Tried and tested since 2004, our weekly class programme really works, helping you to enjoy every step of your pregnancy whilst looking forward to a positive birth.

• Approved by Federation of Antenatal Educators (FEDANT) • Led by qualified and experienced teachers • Incorporating pregnancy yoga, active birth, breathing and hypnosis • Just £9 per week for a ‘full education’ • Learn as you move, relax as you learn!

WEEKLY CLASSES ARE AVAILABLE IN YOUR AREA Call: 0845 465 0925 or visit: www.lazydaisybirthing.co.uk Growing Happy Babies

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Thames Valley West

Forget about the nappy changing and broken sleep for a few minutes and imagine spending some quiet time in a warm room gazing down into your smiling baby’s eyes. Infant massage offers an ideal way to relax and spend time with your baby, for dads as well as for mums. Paul, a father of two from Wokingham, told us “I felt quite nervous with my first child and just a bit left out, but the massage sessions really helped me to bond with her and gave me lots more confidence.”

Anyone can massage their baby or child at any time – when getting them dressed in the morning or after their bath to relax them.

Benefits for your baby are numerous, see the box above right. Massage stimulates all the major systems of the body which affects the blood and lymphatic circulation as well as muscle tone, joint mobility, skin texture and digestion. And it can be seriously good for mums as well. A recent study showed that mothers with post-natal depression became less depressed and had a better relationship with their babies after attending classes.

Many cultures have been doing it for centuries but we are fast catching on in the West and there are now lots of places that you can go to learn the basics.

• Helps bonding and communication with your baby • Provides a relaxing and enjoyable shared experience • Can help with post-natal depression • Promotes confidence in dealing with a new baby • Allows you to meet and socialise with other parents

Karma Senses (www.karmasenses.com, 07527 431 792), based in Reading, offer regular classes in practical baby massage techniques and told us: “Baby massage is truly amazing providing so much joy and happiness for parent and baby. I love to see how confident and knowledgeable a mum grows as she deepens her bond and becomes more comfortable with her child. The magic really begins when partners or family come to a session and the Mum then passes on her new skills, strengthening their family unit.”

Classes can also provide an opportunity to get out of the house and meet other parents. Karen, attended classes in Reading with other mothers from her ante-natal class. “It was a great excuse to keep in touch once the babies were born”, she told us. “We really enjoyed it and everyone, I think, got a lot out of it. In fact we still meet up regularly, and our ‘babies’ have just started secondary school.”

Useful websites The International Association of Infant Massage www.iaim.org.uk The Guild of Infant and Child Massage www.gicm.org.uk Local baby massage classes can be found at www.familiestvw.co.uk/babyclasses

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Bumps & Babes

By Pascale Gravel

Our guide to the best products on the market Having a baby is an expensive business. The average parent spends a daunting £1,060 on baby gear, with 1 in 7 spending up to £2,500.

And that’s just the beginning. If you’re lucky you’ll be able to beg, borrow or steal what you need but if not you’ll end up buying the whole lot new and a few months later you’ll be flogging most of it on eBay. It’s important to spend our money carefully, so Families has put together some of our favourite products we wouldn’t be want to be without….

Buy and sell baby products online

Pushing Choosing a pram, pushchair, buggy or three-inone can be a nightmare. Do you need to fit it in the car? Do you have to accommodate a toddler?

We love the Bugaboo for its style and you can click a car seat onto it, but there are so many amazing prams on the market now. For a top end travel-system the iCandy is our favourite – it’s top of the ratings at www.mumsnet.com and comes in every combo you can think of: singleton, twin, toddler-baby, stroller, carrycot or jogger. Go to www.icandyuk.com for a list of stockists. At the other end of the scale there are some great new lightweight, foldable buggies: www.maclaren baby.com have an exciting designer range including designs from Juicy Couture, Lulu Guinness and Burberry, and the

Maisie Cot-bed

QuickSmart from www.babystyle.co.uk weighs less than 6kg and fits into its own carry bag.

Carrying Before, we had the Baby Bjorn or wrap-around hugabub that nobody could work out how to use. Now we have a new generation of slings: wraps, rings, pouches and backpack slings. We love the Lifft slings, www.lifftslings.com, they have no buckles, clips or straps and spread the baby’s weight evenly, reducing back strain. Check out the Ergo Baby at www.naturalnursery.co.uk It’s pricey at £95 but can be worn front or back, packs up small and will take your baby into toddler-dom. There’s an extensive guide to slings at www.slingmeet.co.uk

Feeding Avoid buying a padded number that will take up half your kitchen and catch food in its crevices – the TrippTrapp highchair from www.stokkehighchair.com grows with your child and they can sit at the table. Alternatively, try the Metoo screw-on table seat from www.philandteds. com and also at John Lewis. It’s brilliant!

Sleeping

QuickSmart buggy

Our top tip is not to buy a moses basket, cot and cot-bed. You don’t need one of each, especially as mattresses and bedding can be pricey. Moses baskets are great as you can move them around the house but newborns will happily go straight into a cot - make it cosier by rolling up blankets and blocking off one end. Go for a cot-bed from the start – you can take the sides down and your child can sleep in it until they’re 5. One of our

Find quality second-hand baby and toddler products online at www. familiestvw.co.uk/smallads It’s FREE to place an ad so why not clear out your clutter and make some money in the process. All ads are local so if you’re looking to buy you won’t have to travel far to pick up items - and you may just find yourself a bargain!

favourites is the Maisie cot-bed from www.babystyle.co.uk It’s made from sustainable pine from Australia and New Zealand, is stylish and contemporary and has a drawer for added storage. Toy manufacturer Brio has a new range of cots and cot-beds in fantastic colours – go to www.lulasapphire.com

More fab products Having tripped over stairgates too many times to remember, go for the Kiddyguard from Mothercare and John Lewis. It’s pricey at £90 but disappears like a rollerblind when not in use so you won’t get thigh-level bruises.

Save money on decorating and re-decorating and get creative with wall decorations: wallies or wall decals stick on and peel off. www.aspace. co.uk do great ranges starting at £7.99, including butterflies, flower fairies, cowboys or trains. For a cheaper option try B&Q who stock favourites such as Thomas and Angelina Ballerina. Invest in a dimmer switch or nightlight in baby’s room.

Use oral syringes to administer Calpol – try getting a newborn to swallow from a spoon!

Infacol is great at preventing wind – you can buy it at most chemists – and Sudocrem is good not just for nappy rash but chapped cheeks or sore noses too. Get your doctor to prescribe it and you’ll get it for free.

Do your bit to save your baby’s future planet and buy eco-friendly baby clothes, bedding, real nappies and toys from www.buyorganics.co. uk, www.bynature.co.uk, www.greenbaby. co.uk or www.greenfibres.com ad 55x40.ai 18/10/2010 10:05:44

Yoga

For Pregnancy Mondays 6.30pm to 7.45pm Lower Earley Resource centre

079 799 828 39

astangadeb@yahoo.co.uk www.yoga-centre.com

Find lots to do at www.familiestvw.co.uk/babyclasses

Thames Valley West

PAGE 19

Look out for lots of ideas and information to help you and your children in those important early years.

Located on a beautiful, rural setting, Jubilee Day Nursery offers outstanding childcare to children aged 3 mths to 5 yrs.

At Jubilee Day Nursery we believe children learn best through play and being given regular access to outdoor play facilities enhances children’s learning experiences.

Jubilee Day Nursery has designed and developed a stunning outdoor environment to ensure all the principals of the Early Years Foundation Stage are encompassed.

info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk

0118 9701600

www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk Paddock View, Rectory Road, Padworth Common, RG7 4JD

Treetops Nursery 5 Centenary Park, Station Road, Henley on Thames RG9 1DS

We believe that every child is a unique individual, full of potential and continually evolving. Therefore our overriding childcare philosophy is to provide a warm, safe and happy environment, in which each child receives stimulation correctly levelled at his/her own particular age and stage of development.

Over 19 years’ experience in complete childcare and education Town centre location Excellent home cooked food Open 7.45am-6pm. 51 weeks a year Light and spacious rooms

Multi-level indoor soft play gym ; unique indoor/outdoor all-weather play area and an outside area To see what we can offer you and your child, contact Sarah to arrange a visit on 01491 413336

www.countrysidenurseries.co.uk

PAGE 20

Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

New Year, New You

By Fiona Grant

What is hypnotherapy? the anxiety down like the volume on a radio, or smokers that they no longer find smoking pleasurable. You may be given a post hypnotic suggestion that enables you to induce selfhypnosis after the treatment course is completed.

Hypnotherapists trained in psychotherapy may use trance to explore the root of a problem and help you change deep-seated attitudes or feelings. At the end of the session, the hypnotherapist suggests that you return to normal consciousness.

Hypnosis happens when you are in a relaxed state, something like daydreaming, when your critical faculties are suspended and you are open to suggestion. The words ‘hypnosis and hypnotherapy’ are derived from the Greek word hypnos, meaning sleep. Hypnotherapy bypasses the conscious mind, allowing direct communication with the unconscious. Most people can be hypnotised to a greater or lesser extent; the best subjects are those who are imaginative and easily absorbed in what they doing. Hypnotherapists induce a hypnotic trance in order to help you overcome addictions and phobias, such as fear of flying, or to relieve pain or stress contributing to illnesses like asthma.

What’s the evidence?

There is good evidence from controlled clinical trials that hypnosis can reduce anxiety (especially when related to medical procedures like chemotherapy), relieve acute and chronic pain and skin irritation, and benefit asthma and irritable bowel syndrome. When used with cognitive behavioural therapy, hypnosis was shown to help panic attacks, insomnia, phobia and obesity.

How can Hypnotherapy help?

Hypnotherapy is particularly useful for habit problems such as bedwetting in children, smoking, compulsive eating and nail biting; irritable bowel syndrome; pain relief; phobias, panic attacks, lack of confidence, inhibitions and social problems.

How can Hypnotherapy help in Childbirth?

Using the power of her own mind, an expectant mother can learn to relax her body so that her uterus can do the work for which it is designed.

The result is that her muscles work as they should and her baby is born more quickly and easily, in a state of relaxation and with very little pain.

Hypnosis helps to provide a more natural childbirth, producing calmness and relaxation, physically and mentally. This can steady fluctuating blood pressure and reduce pain, anxiety, stress and nausea.

Using self hypnosis, you are more likely to have a calm, peaceful birthing experience and it is more likely that you will be calmer and happier after giving birth and there may be a reduced possibility of post-natal depression. It is well established that hypnosis reduces the first stage of labour by approximately 2 hours for women having a second or subsequent baby, and possibly between 3-4 hours for those having their first baby.

The practice of hypnosis techniques significantly reduces pain during delivery. If a pain relief drug is needed, a lower dose is likely to be effective.

By remaining calm and relaxed, most women

New parent?

Come on a buggy walk

Fiona Grant

Who do I contact to find out more?

feel less mentally and physically exhausted and even look fit and well afterwards. Babies have been shown to cry less, sleep and feed better and are generally calmer, possibly due to diminished trauma at birth. Due to relaxation in the final stages of labour, there is very little tearing (if any at all), since no hard, anxious pushing is applied.

What happens?

Hypnotic states can be induced in several ways but Western hypnotherapists tend to prefer quiet relaxation. You would see your therapist for a 60 minute session. At your first appointment, the therapist will ask about your physical and mental health, the nature of your problem and why you have chosen hypnotherapy. A hypnosis session often starts with a relaxation procedure, such as tensing and releasing different parts of your body, as you lie on a reclining chair.

Some therapists deepen this state into trance by suggesting you feel heavy and relaxed.

Visualisation techniques might include imagining yourself going down in a lift or descending a flight of stairs. Once you are in a light to medium trance, the hypnotherapist will address your unconscious mind. People with stress may be told they can turn

To find out more about how hypnotherapy can help you Fiona Grant can be contacted at Sunrise Hypnotherapy in Caversham on 05601 739109 or mobile 07810 716050. She offers a free initial consultation where you can discuss your problem in detail and have any queries answered. Fiona personalises every therapy session to best suit individual needs and all cases are treated with complete confidentiality.

Case study Liz (name changed) underwent a course of hypnotherapy with Fiona to help her control her weight having endured many years of yo-yo dieting. She writes “I am still losing weight very steadily, whilst introducing a more varied healthy diet. I can’t believe how positive I still feel about it all. I haven’t had one single craving; even tiredness doesn’t seem to trigger cravings now. I still practise relaxation techniques and am fully prepared to deal with a craving should it arise!”

SUNRISE HYPNOTHERAPY Gentle help you need

Every Thursday 10am Victoria Park Nursery School and Children’s Centre, Newbury The perfect opportunity to get some exercise and meet some new friends.

Mums, dads, babies and buggies are all welcome!

All you need is a comfy pair of shoes and suitable clothing for the weather.

No dogs please.

For more information please contact the Walks Coordinator on T: 01635 874381 E: walking@westberks.gov.uk

For help with: • Stopping smoking - 1 session • Effective weight control • Preventing fears and phobias • More positive thinking

• Stress management • Tackling exam nerves • Ensuring goal achievement • Pain relief • Allergies

Fiona Grant DHP LAPHP BSc Hons 05601 739 109 (Caversham) / 07810 716 050 www.sunrisehypnotherapy.co.uk fionaagrant@bluebottle.com

Call today to arrange a free initial consultation.

Boost your immune system www.familiestvw.co.uk/boost

Thames Valley West

PAGE 21

New Year, New You

 

Discover lasting pride in your appearance

Give a gift that will last a lifetime Gift vouchers are now available for any of our consultations

 Colour Analysis

 Wardrobe Weeding

 Style Consultation

 Makeup Lesson



For further information please visit the website at

www.newreflection.biz or call me, Jo Haley on

Look forward to hearing from you!

• Release fear and remain calm and positive • Breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce pain • Shorten labour by several hours and much more...

NEW CD/downloads to support you through labour Find out more go to www.berkshirehypnobirthing.com Or call Vanessa on 0118 3765548

10% discount if you quote ‘Families’ upon booking a class

www.harrisonclinic.co.uk

Osteopathy Physiotherapy Acupuncture Cranial Osteopathy Sports Massage Nutritional Consultancy Homeopathy

Exceptional care in a friendly, relaxed environment 0118 976 2253

Bridge Farm, Farley Farms, Reading Road, Arborfield,Reading, RG2 9HT





       



 

Thames Valley West

Coach and NLP Practitioner Julie Hoather shows us how, by changing the way we think, we can become happier and more confident in 2011.



01491 411586, mobile: 07590 512 376

Complete Antenatal Preparation for calm labour & birth

PAGE 22

Steps to confidence and happiness Some people just seem to have it, the confidence to achieve anything and to be happy and successful.

But there is no real mystery about this, it’s all about attitude. The way you approach a situation can dramatically increase, or decrease, your chances of success.

Whether it is a job interview, returning to work after a prolonged absence, giving a presentation or making a change in your personal life, here are some tips to help improve your attitude.

• Be kind to yourself; it’s all too easy to be negative. Rid yourself of negative self-talk, look in the mirror and give yourself a good run down of all the things you are excellent at.

• Celebrate your victories; whatever it is that you have achieved, remember it and give yourself a pat on the back.

• Imagine your success; Neuro Linguistic programming is an incredibly successful tool for making changes in both your personal and professional life. One principle of NLP is that imagination is incredibly powerful for helping us to move towards what we want to achieve. So create a clear, vivid image of your success. Try to use all your senses. What will you see, hear and feel?

• Assume a successful persona; if in doubt, fake it! What would being confident feel like? Notice the changes in your body language and re-enact them, they will soon become part of your behaviour pattern.

• Don’t assume others know more than you; if you’re uncertain, they probably are as well but they may be better at hiding it.

• Communicate; let others know how you feel and then they can help you either by being a shoulder to cry on or by reminding you to throw your shoulders back and face the world with confidence.

Change your thinking, change your circumstances! You deserve it.

Wishing you a happy, successful and confident 2011.

Julie can help you to achieve your lifestyle, career or relationship goals using  NLP coaching techniques. You can call her on 07812 650 531, email jules@ jh-coaching.co.uk or visit www.jh-coaching.co.uk for more information.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

New Year, New You

Swimming Against the Tide?

Are you suffering the postChristmas blues with that familiar feeling of overindulgence? Daunted by the prospect of New Year weather or simply feeling tired and lacking in motivation?

Nutritionist Julia Charles from The Harrison Clinic tells us how to really ‘kickstart’ 2011 with a New Year, New You energy boost.

It is easier than you may think to boost your energy levels and feel brighter, lighter and more refreshed during what can be a long mid-winter!

Just a few simple steps can have you looking great and feeling fantastic. Whether you are looking to simply boost energy levels, improve your winter mood, or to lose those few unwanted pounds.

Drink 2 litres of still water daily: This is very obvious for some, but the healing powers of water are often underestimated.

Hydration alone improves concentration, digestion, nutrient absorption, short-term memory, hormonal balance and energy levels to mention but a few.

Only eat when you feel hungry: Again, this sounds obvious and yet how often do we tend to eat a meal or snack because it is lunch time or supper time rather than listening to our bodies to identify that we are actually hungry? To eat only when we really do feel that ‘hungry wolf’ feeling is to eat at the perfect time for our body. The hunger sensation indicates that digestive enzymes are present and your system is ready to process foods optimally. We often mistake thirst for hunger, it is worth drinking water whenever you feel hungry and then seeing if you really are hungry 30 minutes later!

system, liver and adrenals leading to unnecessary energy slumps.

Take some gentle exercise and fresh air: Walking seems to be a highly-underrated form of exercise these days. It is more important than ever to embrace the few hours of daylight we have during the coming months and taking a brisk walk in the fresh air has huge benefits to our general health and wellbeing.

Keep saturated fats in check: Always eat breakfast: ‘Breakfast like a King, lunch like a Prince, dine like a Pauper….’ There was more than a grain of truth in this ancient proverb. Unfortunately, so many people are so busy that breakfast is skipped. It is so important to start the day with a healthy breakfast, literally ‘breaking the fast’ from many hours sleep. Without it we are compromising concentration levels, encouraging irritability and low blood sugar levels which can lead to craving unnecessary sugary and starchy snacks later in the morning. You don’t have to eat a great amount of food; perhaps some Greek yogurt with nuts, seeds and a drizzle of Agave Syrup, boiled eggs and soldiers or a bowl of porridge with blueberries to beat the winter chill.

Try to eat warm, cooked foods during the winter months Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests that too many ‘cold, damp foods’ in ‘cold, damp weather’ can create an imbalance in the body. With this in mind, try to eat an abundance of colourful, cooked veggies which are seasonally available.

Think casseroles, stews and soups. Warming foods can take the pressure off the digestive system thereby allowing the body more energy to manage other important processes.

Reduce your consumption of processed foods: Especially sugary snacks, caffeine and fizzy drinks.

These foods put a huge strain on the digestive

In the Western World we tend to over-indulge in processed foods and animal fats leading to an ‘overfed’ yet ‘under-nourished’ population. Try to eat ‘beneficial’ fats from wild fish (especially salmon), flax seeds, nuts, green leafy vegetables and herbs. Did you know that oregano is extremely rich in omega 3? Also steamed broccoli and cauliflower! Herbs can also boost serotonin levels – very important during winter when many can suffer from seasonal affective disorders.

So, winter does not have to be the ‘dreaded’ season at all. There are so many wonderful elements to embrace during this time, particularly if we can feel more energetic and positively motivated. By following the steps above, hibernation may be the furthest thing from your mind; instead you will approach the arrival of spring with an abundance of health and enthusiasm!

For more information on intolerance testing, nutritional healing and tailor-made programmes for all of the family, contact Julia Charles at the Harrison Clinic on 0118 976 2253 or visit www.harrisonclinic.co.uk The Harrison Clinic has a very special New Year, New You Offer. For every nutritional consultation taken in January 2011, including an intolerance test (if requested), another family member can book the same for half price. All initial consultations are for one hour and will include a full assessment of your nutritional and health balance.

Helping You Look and Feel Your Best An extensive range of treatments to help busy mums look and feel their best: Facials n Manicures n Pedicures n Acrylic/gel nails Spray tanning n Waxing n Electrolysis Anti-ageing n Anti-cellulite n Body wraps Pregnancy/new mother n Make-up Pamper days n Anti-stress massage Aromatherapy n Hot stone therapy Life coaching n Reflexology n Reiki Acupuncture n Nutrition n Hypnotherapy

To find out more, call: 0118 934 0355 or visit: www.halcyon-brw.co.uk 55 High Street, Twyford, Berkshire, RG10 9AJ

families ad_new.indd 1 Boost your immune system www.familiestvw.co.uk/boost

We also offer a range of grooming and relaxation treatments for men and treatments for teenagers. Please contact us for details.

05/02/2010 09:09 PAGE 23 Thames Valley West

Mums in Business

New Year, Ne Running your own business from home is a dream shared by many.

However, taking those first steps can be very daunting. To help you get started here are a few sources of help and advice. And for inspiration read about two local mothers who have already taken the plunge.

Start a Family-Friendly Business: 23 Brilliant Business Bdeas for Mum

by Helen Lindop and Antonia Chitty

Choosing the right business It’s important to make the right choice of business for you. If you are still at the ‘ideas’ stage find inspiration in this new book on flexible working. It takes an in-depth look at a wide variety of potential businesses that are ideal for flexible working ranging from life coaching, childcare and personal training to cleaning, graphic design and journalism. It examines the nittygritty of how each one works, and lists the various pros and cons. You’ll also find advice on self-employment ranging from business planning and complying with legislation to finding help with marketing and promotion.

PAGE 24

Thames Valley West

Free Business Link support to start and grow a new business Business Link is a free government-backed service offering lots of advice, information and support through workshops, online business planning tools and a telephone helpline. Get in touch to find out more about their Starting a Business service. And for those running early stage companies, Business Link has produced a Guide to ‘Running a new business – Your guide to the first 24 months’.

They offered us the following advice. “Starting a business is both exciting and rewarding, but it is also full of challenges. Commitment, drive, perseverance and support from family and friends will go a long way towards transforming your business idea into reality and will be especially important during the early days. In addition, it’s helpful to seek support from experienced advisers who know about the challenges involved in starting a new business, such as those at Business Link.”

For more information about all Business Link’s support, or to request a Guide, call 0845 600 9 006 or visit www.businesslink.gov.uk/southeast

How about a franchise?

If you’re still having trouble coming up with a great business idea of your own then how about using someone else’s tried and tested formula. The risks in starting your own business can be high with many failing in their first year. Buying a good franchise can give you a head start and offer a much higher chance of success.

You are following a proven business idea and should receive support and guidance.

On the downside you will be paying a start-up fee, plus ongoing administration fees, and there may be restrictions on what you can and cannot do. And do be wary – some advertised schemes can be dubious to say the least.

The British Franchise Association (BFA) is a useful starting point. Visit www. thebfa.org for lots of guidance, details of seminars on all aspects of franchising, and information about all BFA accredited franchise opportunities. Websites such as www.whichfranchise.com and www. franchiseinfo.co.uk are also worth a look. But no amount of research beats meeting and talking to the various franchise companies face-to-face. The British and International Franchise Exhibition, at Olympia in London on March 18-19, allows you to do just that with a wide range of franchised businesses in attendance.

Network like mad Networking plays an important role in business. Use all the support, ideas and experience that you can get from other people. One way to do this is to join a local business network. One of the most established and popular of these in our area is LadiesWhoLatte (LWL). LWL was the first of its kind, offering a unique way for women to do business with free regular meetings at ‘mum friendly’ times and in easy to get to locations. LWL began in the Thames Valley and there are now over 30 groups around the country, including Newbury, Reading, Wokingham, Bracknell and Henley.

To find more about LWL or discover your nearest meeting go to the website at www.ladieswholatte.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Mums in Business

w Business?

The Conveyancing Business Many parents find that setting up their own business allows them to continue using existing skills and qualifications but in a more flexible way.

Rachael Matthews had previously worked as a solicitor, specialising in residential conveyancing and covering all aspects of house purchases and sales. After having her third child she decided to set up her own law practice at home so that she could see more of her family.

“It has proved to be a perfect combination for me,” she told us “with low overheads I can choose to have a smaller number of clients which means a more personal service for them. Giving a one-to-one service means letters not sitting in an in-tray, calls are handled by me; in fact I deal with everything myself – with each customer a high priority. And, as house moving is stressful enough, this means less stress for the client. Having moved home several times myself I understand the pressures; emotionally, economically, and legally. So I have experienced all sides!

“Clients can visit me here and we discuss the contract over a mug of coffee whilst their children rummage through the toy box. My lunch breaks usually involve taking the dogs on a walk in the woods and it also means that I am here for my children. I can plan around sports days and school plays.

“I also lecture on Land law and Trusts law to degree students on a part time basis. I enjoy this immensely and, as it is usually at weekends, the children get to have some quality time with Daddy being off work.

“On the whole I think the balance works well. I get to work closely with my clients whilst at the same time being around for the children, and what’s more, no commuting!”

Rachael Matthews can be reached on 01494 758 573 or visit www.rmatthewssolicitor.co.uk

Talking Tots Gets Reading’s Children Talking Franchising, can offer the best of both worlds, allowing you to be in business for yourself, but supported by a proven business model and with an experienced support team behind you.

One local mother who agrees is Katie Burt. She has just opened the Reading franchise of Talking Tots, the UK’s leading provider of communication classes for toddlers. Talking Tots is a unique activity for preschoolers that uses games, rhymes and interactive activities to help develop social confidence and communication skills. The classes are lots of fun and encourage toddlers to develop important skills that will give them a head start in the classroom.

Katie told us why she opted for Talking Tots: “I had a real passion for working with children and also loved the idea of running my own business, but it is very important to me that my work fits around my girls. When I heard about Talking Tots it seemed perfect. I loved the idea that it provides something very different from other preschool classes - it focuses on communication skills, which are so important and the foundation to all learning.

“Our sessions are so much fun, children won’t even realise they’re learning. They’re playing and making friends, but at the same time they’re learning to listen, take turns and work as part of a group.

“Talking Tots is a franchise, so that meant I didn’t need to start from scratch. It was designed by speech and language therapists who worked closely with teachers and educational psychologists, which meant that everything was already researched and tried and tested before I started.”

Classes will run on Mondays and Tuesdays in Woodley and Caversham, and are for children aged from 12 months to 4 years. Classes do fill up fast, so parents are urged to contact Katie to join in the fun!

To find out more please contact Katie Burt on 0789 4909 813, email katie@talkingtots.info or visit www.talkingtots.info

Conveyancing Solicitor I have my office based at home. I deal with all types of Conveyancing; sale, purchase, remortgage, etc.

I choose to have a small practice where I handle everything myself. I offer a personal touch with flexible contact hours. Clients feel at ease coming to my office where children can play with the toys.

Call me, Rachael Matthews, on

01494 758573

or email: Rachael@rmatthewssolicitor.co.uk www.rmatthewssolicitor.co.uk

Call me for a quote or visit our website and use our online quote facility.

Find us 11now greatattips forfamiliestvw.co.uk business success at www.familiestvw.co.uk/businesstips Visit www.

Thames Valley West

PAGE 25

What’s On

BRACKNELL LEISURE CENTRE

Spring activities at Bracknell Leisure Centre Tuesday 4th January - Saturday 9th April

BRACKNELL LEISURE CENTRE

Family Theatre Please always check before setting out in case details have changed since going to press.

The Hexagon Queen’s Walk, Reading RG1 7UA. Box Office: 0118 960 6060, www.readingarts.com 23 January – FIREMAN SAM – PONTYPANDY ROCKS The Hero next door is back, in a brand new show live on stage. Join Fireman Sam, and all his friends, as Pontypandy hosts its first ever music festival. With songs, daring new rescues, and more adventure than ever before. Tickets £13, child £11, family £44.

NPLQ Squash Ballet Swimming Badminton Trampolining

Bracknell Leisure Centre Bagshot Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 9SE Tel: 01344 454203 www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

BRACKNELL FOREST

Fun Sessions and much more...

Be

LEISURE

1-5 February – JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAM COAT Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs and stars Keith Jack, runner-up in the BBC’s ‘Any Dream Will Do’ series.

6-7 February – MOSCOW CITY BALLET PRESENT THE NUTCRACKER This fairy-tale ballet transports you to the Kingdom of Sweets where the Sugar Plum Fairy retells the story of a Nutcracker doll that comes alive on Christmas Eve to rescue a little girl from the clutches of the Mouse King and his army. Tickets from £25, conc. £3 off.

26 February – HIGH SCHOOL ROCKS Aimed at 5-12 year olds this musical show features songs from High School Musical, Glee, Camp Rock and Hannah Montana.

Tickets £13.50.

27-28 February – WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT Adapted from the much-loved picture book, join the intrepid adventurers on their quest to find a bear. Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure - plus a few special surprises! For ages 3+yrs. Tickets £10.

2-6 March – PETER PAN ON ICE The tale of the boy who never grew up is performed by the world renowned Russian Ice Stars. Various times and prices.

South Street 21 South Street, Reading RG1 4QU. 11Box Office: 0118 960 6060, www.readingarts.com 6 February - THE STEADFAST TIN SOLDIER Banyan Theatre return with this classic tale of the tin soldier and his journey into the unknown. This charming adaptation illustrates beautifully the transition between fantasy and reality told gently through puppetry, music and storytelling.

For ages 3-11. Tickets £7.

22 February – FOLDED FEATHER – SUITCASE CIRCUS Meet Wobulous Discombobulous, the anarchic sock, as he presents a line up of extraordinarily talented performing objects, all with their own unique and captivating storylines. Tickets £7.

24-25 February – 3 BILLY GOAT’S GRUFF & OTHER FURRY TALES South Street favourites Theatre of Widdershins return and use puppets and props to present their classic show in three furry parts. Ages 3+. Tickets £7.

See Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat at The Hexagon

PAGE 26

Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

What’s On South Hill Park

29 January – A CHRISTMAS CAROL With the help of a large pop-up book and lots of humbugs this very entertaining version of the Dickens’ classic tale takes the audience back to Victorian England using mime, voice, and a couple of suitcases full of ghosts. For ages 5 to adult.

Ringmead, Bracknell RG12 7PA. Box office: 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk 14 January – LAURA’S STAR One night Laura finds a star lying, broken, on the pavement and takes it home. But when she wakes up next morning, the little star has disappeared. Was her special friend just a dream? For ages 3-7. Tickets £10.50, child £8.50.

12 February – 3 BILLY GOATS GRUFF & OTHER FURRY TAILS A storyteller recounts the most fantastic tales from the Magic Land of Three using puppets and props. It’s full of fun and laughter with an exciting gypsy soundtrack. Ages 3+.

15 January – LAURA’S STAR AT SANDHURST COMMUNTY HALL As above but this performance will be held at Sandhurst Community Hall.

21 February – PETER & THE WOLF The Bird, the Cat, the Duck and of course the Wolf all help Peter to explore and to have a great adventure in the forest.

Wonderful animal puppets and a fantastic life-sized wolf make this an enjoyable production. Tickets £10.50, child £5.50.

The Kenton Theatre New St, Henley, 01491 575 698, www.kentontheatre.co.uk

The Novello Theatre Join the Bear Hunt at The Corn Exchange, The Hexagon and The Camberley theatres alone until a passing Martian lands there too. Who is the strange alien? Can they be friends? And how will they find their way back home. Ages 3+. Tickets £8, conc. £6.

21-23 February – WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT See The Hexagon for show details. Tickets £10.

9 January – CINDERELLA A new production of the classic ballet Cinderella, which tells everyone’s favourite rags-to-riches story. Tickets £16, child £12.

The Corn Exchange Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 01635 522 733, www.cornexchangenew.com 29 January – LITTLE RED ROBIN HOOD Two classic tales woven into one fast and funny family show. Tickets £8, conc. £6.

The Anvil Churchill Way, Basingstoke RG21 7QR. Box Office: 01256 844 244, www.anvilarts.org.uk 25 February - SCIENCE MUSEUM LIVE ON TOUR Experience spectacular science, dangerous demonstrations and extraordinary experiments as London’s world famous Science Museum takes to the stage for the first time ever with a spectacular live show to blow your mind and challenge your brain. For ages 7+. Tickets £12.50, family £45.

20-22 January – ALICE IN WONDERLAND Journey through Wonderland with Alice and meet White Rabbit, Mad Hatter, Dormouse, March Hare, Caterpillar and the Queen of Hearts and her family. A colourful story told with song, dance and some slapstick for all the family. Tickets £12, conc. £10.

22 February - ELMER The heart-warming tale of Elmer the elephant told with puppets and music.

For 4-7yrs. Tickets £8.

interactive adventure features Miriam, who is sucked into Wonderland, with characters we all know and love but in their very own story. Suitable for ages 3+. Tickets £6.50, family £22.

Penguin at The Corn Exchange 5 March – PENGUIN Based on the award-winning book by Polly Dunbar about a little boy and his adventurous toy penguin. Ages 3+. Tickets £8, conc. £6.

Haymarket Theatre Wote Street, Basingstoke RG21 7NW. Box Office: 01256 844244, www.anvilarts.org.uk 25 February – THE WAY BACK HOME See The Corn Exchange for show details.

Tickets £6.

Norden Farm

12 February – A LITTLE BIRD TOLD ME Wizards, witches and magical animals are all included in these fairy tales created by children from UK primary schools, and adapted by professional storytellers. With puppetry, live music, magic, and lots of joining in. Ages 3+. Tickets £8, conc. £6.

Altwood Rd, Maidenhead. 01628 788 997, www.nordenfarm.org

19 February – THE WAY BACK HOME An inter-galactic adventure for families about a little boy seeking adventure. One day he finds a plane in his cupboard and flies to the moon. He is frightened, lost and

22-23 February – THE WAY BACK HOME See The Corn Exchange for show details.

Tickets £6.50, family £22.

5 February - THE STEADFAST TIN SOLDIER See South Street for show details. Tickets £6.50, family £22.

24-25 February – FINDING ALICE Based on Alice in Wonderland this

Central Studio Queen Mary’s College, Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke. Box Office: 01256 418 318, www.centralstudio.co.uk SATURDAY LIVE SHOWS Special shows for children at 11am. Tickets £7, child £4.50.

15 January – GOLDILOCKS Stitching together traditional glove puppetry and live music to create a patchwork of delights.

2 High Street, Sunninghill nr Ascot.

Ticket Agency 01628 822 982, www.novellotheatre.co.uk Until 15 January – HANSEL & GRETEL Pantomime fun for all the family. Various times. Tickets £16.50, children £14.50.

Shinfield Players Theatre Whitley Wood Lane, Reading, 0118 975 8880, www.shinfieldplayers.org.uk 14-16 and 21-23 January – CINDERELLA The classic tale of rags to riches presented by this well-known local amateur theatre group.

The Wycombe Swan High Wycombe, 01494 512 000, www.wycombeswan.co.uk 12-15 January – CHINESE STATE CIRCUS Entertainment for all the family from the world’s leading Chinese acrobats. Their new show, Mulan, is based on the legend of one of China’s greatest heroines.

Tickets from £12.

30 January – FIREMAN SAM PONTYPANDY ROCKS See The Hexagon for show details. Tickets £13.50, child £11.50.

The Camberley Theatre Knoll Rd, Camberley, 01276 707 600, www.camberleytheatre.biz 16-17 January – WE’RE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT See The Hexagon for show details.

Tickets £10.

18-19 February – SCIENCE MUSEUM LIVE ON TOUR See The Anvil for show details.

Tickets £12.50, Schools £10.

25 February – CHRIS & PUI ROADSHOW CBeebies’ favourite double-act Chris and Pui are in town with their new roadshow packed with fantastic songs, games and a few surprises along the way. Tickets £12.50, child £10.50.

Toddler time at MERL

Fridays, 1-2pm, during RBC term time • Drop-in • £2 per child • Families with children up to 4 yrs Enjoy stories, songs and craft activities inspired by the countryside.

Discover more thingsfamiliestvw.co.uk to do - www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson Visit us now at www.

Contact us

For details, call 0118 378 8660, email merlevents@reading.ac.uk or visit

www.reading.ac.uk/merl

Thames Valley West

PAGE 27

What’s On We provide a quality indoor market for parents to buy and sell pre-loved baby and children’s products.

Our markets also host a selection of unique local businesses.

Our markets are located in Lower Earley, Newbury, Reading and across the Thames Valley. Dates & locations can be found in the ‘Out & About’ section of this magazine or by contacting us at:

www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk • 07881 641614

DiaryDates Please always check before setting out in case details have changed since going to press.

January Every day – ODDS FARM PARK at Wooburn Common, nr Beaconsfield, 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk Open daily from 10am throughout the winter. From February half term onwards there are baby lambs to bottle feed. And if you’re lucky you might even see one being born.

Every Sunday – SUPER SUNDAYS at Reading Museum, 0118 939 9800, www.readingmuseum.org.uk Special family activities in the afternoons.

First and fifth Sunday of the month crafts, second Victorian classroom experience, third a tour of Reading and fourth a chance to get hands-on with real objects from the collection.

The Fire & Light Show, see below

15 January – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Main Concourse, Newbury Racecourse, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk 10am-12.30pm. New and pre-loved clothes, ranging from maternity wear to children’s clothing from newborn to around 8yrs, plus quality products and services. Entry £1, children free.

16 January – RECYCLED ARTS WORKSHOP –FLYING FISH KITES at Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Find out how to make art out of rubbish!

Free drop in workshops for all the family, no need to book. 11am-3.30pm.

Weekends and school holidays from 22 January – THE BRAIN DRAIN SHOW at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell, 01344 354 400, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lookout The Brain Drain show investigates how the human brain works, including memory, imagination, and optical illusions. Participants will have to think fast as their reactions are tested in special brain games. £1.85 in addition to main entrance price, various show times.

23 January – RSPB DATE WITH NATURE: WINTER ROBINS at Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Drop in for various activities to help you learn all about robins. Free, drop in between 11am-3.30pm.

fro

Scheme

m

£ 2 7a y per

d

Archery Arts & Crafts Climbing Wall Den Building NEW Gymnastics Kayaking Outdoor Sports Orienteering NEW Swimming chi vo ldcar Taekwondo u e acc cher ept s Team Building ed Trampolining Wildlife Explorers

Op ev en e sch ry hol ool ida y

Off site visits

Legoland Paintballing Science Centre Thorpe Park

Extra activities Animation Bikeability Circus Skills Paint Me

“The staff are amazing, the activities enjoyable, my son has really developed this summer” “I look forward to coming to LP every holiday and making new friends”

Booking forms and further information are available on our website

Leighton Park School 0118 987 9538 Ofsted Registered 5-14 years old

activities@leightonpark.com

PAGE 28

Thames Valley West

www.leightonpark.com/enterprises

Weekends and school holidays until 9 January – THE FIRE AND LIGHT SHOW at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell, 01344 354 400, www. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lookout Fire your imagination with fantastic demonstrations - enjoy flames, fire and sparks. What does a candle need to keep burning? Which creatures produce their own light? Come along to our show to make some amazing discoveries about fire and light. £1.85 in addition to main entrance price, various show times.

6-7 January – TODDLER DAYS – MY BODY at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell, 01344 354 400, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lookout Extra activities just for toddlers, alongside the normal exhibition. Make and take activities, play dough, face or hand painting and story telling. £6.20 per parent and toddler plus additional £1.40 for each extra child (maximum of three).

From 11 January to 19 April – LAND LADIES EXHIBITION – WOMEN IN FARMING IN ENGLAND 1900-1945 at Museum of English Rural Life, University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl Women have always worked in farming but their contribution has often been hidden from history. This exhibition tells their story – from the women who successfully ran their own farms and college-trained ladies who pursued agricultural careers, to the farmers’ wives who assisted with the family business, and casual field hands who planted, picked and packed the produce of the land.

29-30 January – RSPB BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH at The River and Rowing Museum, Henley on Thames, 01491 415 605, www.rrm.co.uk Family fun day with lots of wildlife-related activities for the kids to enjoy, including badge making, bird shaped blow darts, animal masks and garden bird fat feeders to use at home, plus take part in the Big Garden Bird Watch survey. Free with admission. Drop in 10am-4pm. RSPB members will receive a 50% discount on entrance fees to the museum over the weekend.

February 9 February – BASILDON PARK GARDENS RE-OPEN, Lower Basildon, RG8 9NR, 0118 984 3040, www.nationaltrust.org.uk Grounds, shop and tea room open 10am– 4pm daily except Tuesdays. House closed until 9 March. During February half term, children can follow a new orienteering trail with a treasure theme, leading to an edible gold award. Both old and young can test their map reading skills and enjoy a range of other activities throughout the week.

13 February – WINTER BIRD WALK at Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk 2pm. No need to book, £2 per person.

14 February – BEALE PARK RE-OPENS, 0844 826 1761, www.bealepark.co.uk 10am-5pm daily.

Beale Park re-opens 14 February

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

What’s On

Compiled by Claire Frew The National Trust

19 February – WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK RE-OPENS, 0118 932 6444, www.wellington-country-park.co.uk 9.30am-4.30pm daily.

19 February – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Bulmershe Leisure Centre, Woodlands Ave, Woodley RG5 3EU, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk 2pm-4pm. See 15 Jan entry.

19-20 and 23 February – HALF TERM STEAMDAY at Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk Look behind the scenes and recreate the past by riding on a steam train.

19-25 February – HALF TERM FAMILY ACTIVITIES at Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre and Greenham Common, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk All at Discovery Centre unless otherwise stated. 19 Feb Bush Craft Holiday Club – enjoy a day learning survival skills, cooking on a campfire, building a den, climbing trees and other fun outdoor activities (ages 8-14, 10am-4pm, booking essential, £25 per child); 23 Feb Recycled Arts Workshop: Buttons & Beads, Bracelets & Keyrings – make art out of rubbish!

(11am-3.30pm, drop in); 24 Feb Story of the Very Hungry Caterpillar - see this popular tale brought to life through puppets, props and drama (11.30am & 2pm, booking essential, £4.50); 25 Feb Besom Broom Making at Greenham Common – gather your own materials and learn this ancient craft (ages 8+, 10am4pm, booking essential, £5 per broom).

21-25 February – RAINFOREST ROADSHOW at various Wokingham libraries, www.wokingham.gov.uk/ libraries Meet and interact with some rainforest animals. For families with children of all ages. Please book at relevant library, £3 charge. 21 Feb Wargrave (0118 940 4656) 3-4pm; 22 Feb Woodley (0118 969 0304) 9.30-10.30am & Maiden Erlegh (0118 966 6630) 3-4pm; 23 Feb Wokingham (0118 978 1368) 9.30-10.30am & Winnersh (0118 979 7519) 1.30-2.30pm; 24 Feb Spencers Wood (0118 988 4771) 11am-12noon & Finchampstead (0118 908 8176) 3-4pm; 25 Feb Twyford (0118 934 0800) 11am-12noon & Lower Earley (0118 931 2150) 1.30-2.30pm.

21-25 February – ANIMAL CRAFTS at various Wokingham libraries, www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries Create some amazing creatures. For families with children of all ages. £1 charge.

21 Feb Spencers Wood 3-4pm; 22 Feb

Lower Earley 10.30-11.30am; 24 Feb Wokingham 10.30-11.30am; 25 Feb Woodley 11am-12noon.

21-25 February – HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at Reading Museum, 0118 939 9800, www.readingmuseum.org.uk Throughout half term Activity cart – drop in and enjoy free Medieval themed art and craft activities. 21 Feb Make and Take: Paper Bag Pets – create your own friendly stuffed paper bag animals in these free half hour sessions (drop in, 10am-12noon & 1-3pm); 22 Feb Felt Planets - try your hand at making colourful miniature planets out of felt to celebrate National Science week (ages 5+, 1 hour sessions starting at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm, pay on the day, drop in); 22 Feb Victorian Schoolroom Experience - meet a Victorian schoolteacher and re-learn the ‘3Rs’ in a 45-minute experience for adults and children over 5 in the unique Victorian classroom (11am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm, £1, drop in, 35 places max per session); 23 Feb Make and Take: Balancing Creatures explore the relationship between weight and gravity by creating your own rocking parrot and balancing butterfly (free, drop in between 10am-12noon & 1-3pm); 24 Feb Whizz, Bang, Wallop! - create some fun experiments with everyday materials, including cornflour and balloons (ages 7+, 10am–12noon & 1-3pm, £5, booking essential.) Please arrive early for popular drop in sessions as spaces are limited.

21-25 February – DESIGN A DREAM CATCHER at California Country Park Make and decorate your very own dream catcher, said by Native Americans to trap bad dreams and only allow the good dreams to filter through. Children must be supervised. Drop into the café between 10am-4pm. £2.50, no need to book.

Details on 0118 973 5519.

Jubilee Jets Holiday Club

www.jubileejets.co.uk

22-24 February – HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at The River and Rowing Museum, Henley on Thames, 01491 415 605, www.rrm.co.uk 22 Feb – Wearable Maps – bring a plain cotton t-shirt, design your own map and paint it on the t-shirt using fabric inks (ages 7-11, £8.50, 10.30am-12.30pm, please book); 23 Feb Wind Chimes in the Willows – make a simple wind chime with a tin can and junk materials, hear the story of the Thunderbird and the Wind and paint a Thunderbird on a wooden plaque (ages 4-7, £8.50, 10.30am-12.30pm, please book); 24 Feb Pirates of the Thames – search for buried treasure, make a model pirate ship and a parrot plus other fun activities (drop in between 10.30am-4pm, included in admission price, dress as a pirate for free entry).

22-24 February - OASIS HOLIDAY CLUB at Christadelphian Hall, Lower Way, Thatcham Free fun for children aged 6-11yrs, 10am-12noon. Games, craft, bible stories, songs. Call 07798 766701 for details.

22-25 February – HALF TERM WORKSHOPS at South Hill Park, Bracknell, 01344 484 124, www.southhillpark.org.uk 22 & 23 Feb Potters Wheel - you will be shown how to throw a pot using air dry clay (ages 6-11, 10am-12noon or 2-4pm, £15.50, members £13.50); 24-25 Feb Art Factory - spend the morning using clay, collage, drawing and sculpture (ages 4-11, 10am–12noon, £15.50, members £13.50);

23-25 February – ‘CAM MOTION’ HALF TERM FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS at REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Aborfield, 0118 976 3375, www.rememuseum.org.uk Fun activities for accompanied children aged 5-12. 11am-3.30pm, drop in. Brave the Big Bug hunt, survive the assault course, learn to march and salute, make a tank and a parachute plus lots more.

Nearly New Sales 15 January – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Main Concourse, Newbury Racecourse, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk 10am-12.30pm. New and pre-loved clothes, ranging from maternity wear to children’s clothing from newborn to around 8yrs, plus quality products and services. Entry £1, children free.

19 February – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Bulmershe Leisure Centre, Woodlands Ave, Woodley RG5 3EU, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk 2pm-4pm. See 15 Jan entry.

26 February – READING NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at Christ Church, Crockhamwell Rd, Woodley, RG5 3LA Nearly new sale of children’s clothes, equipment, toys and books etc. 2-4pm (1.45pm for NCT members with card).

Sellers can register on 0844 243 6246.

If you would like details of your production or event to appear in the Out & About pages, please give us a ring on 0118 954 6893, email us at listings@familiestvw.co.uk or write to PO Box 2955, Reading RG1 9PH. The deadline for the March/April 11 issue is 1 February.

Set in fantastic countryside location

Jubilee Jets is open every school holiday from 8:00 – 18:00 for children aged 4½ to 11 years. Full and half day sessions available. Supervised by a fun team of qualified staff Jubilee Jets is a great out-door adventure holiday club where the best childhood memories are made.

For further information please contact: Jubilee Jets on 0118 9701 600

22 February – PUPPET MAKING at Dinton Pastures, Hurst Come and make your own puppet, designing the pattern and colours yourself.

Children under 8 must be accompanied.

11am & 2pm. Booking essential on 0118 934 2016, countryside@wokingham.gov. uk, £4 per child.

22-25 February – HALF TERM WORKSHOPS at Museum of English Rural Life, The University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl 22 Feb Animal Origami – learn the art of Japanese paper folding (ages 7+, £2, drop in 10–11am, 11.15am–12.15pm, 1–2pm, 2.15–3.15pm); 23 Feb Minibeasts Habitat - create your own minibeast habitat to give creepy crawlies and bugs their very own home (ages 6+, £3, book, 10–11am, 11.15am–12.15pm, 1–2pm, 2.15–3.15pm); 24 Feb Crazy Caterpillars Make and Take - make your own caterpillar critter out of pipecleaners and pasta with Museum staff (ages 2+, £1, drop in, 10am–12noon & 1–3pm); 25 Feb Pleasing Pots – learn to throw your own pot on a wheel (ages 4+, £2 per pot +additional £3 for glazing and firing, drop in 10–11am, 11.15am– 12.15pm, 1.15–2.15pm, 2.30–3.30pm).

• • • • • • • • •

Feeding lambs Biking in the woods Cooking Circus workshops Henna tattoos Trampolining Games and races Quad bikes Or just hanging out with friends

School Holiday Fun!

Paddock View, Rectory Rd, Padworth Common, Berks, RG7 4JD

Ofsted registered

Discover more thingsfamiliestvw.co.uk to do - www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson Visit us now at www.

garden design - makeovers new borders - planting plans smaller gardens a speciality FREE CONSULTATION Carolynn Hughes - HNC garden design Fiona Hill - RHS Horticulture level 2

0118 934 4784 www.hillandhughes.co.uk

making the most of your garden space Thames Valley West

PAGE 29

Health Matters

The Dangers of Mobile Phones Have you heard that mobile phones carry health risks, and that children are at an even greater risk than adults?

Dr Devra Davis, environmental and public health specialist, research scientist and grandmother, could not believe this, but what she found out alarmed her so much that she wrote a book [see box]. She writes that, “Contrary to the firmly held beliefs of many respected authorities, invisible radio frequency radiation can alter living cells and create the same types of damage that we know increase the risk of cancer and neurological disease. Neither the danger nor the safety of cell phones is yet certain. How we manage that uncertainty could avert a global public health catastrophe... children are growing up in a sea of radio frequency radiation that did not exist even five years ago.”

My own concerns about cell phone radiation and other forms of digital pulsed microwave radiation had been aroused a few years ago when I began seeing an increasing number of children showing symptoms after exposure to mobile phones, mast radiation or wireless radiation. These included hyperactive behaviour which reverted to normal when the children were away from the irradiated environment, skin rashes and eczemas that did not improve with treatment, night terrors and mood swings, lowered immunity in previously healthy children, and sudden nose-bleeds.

A major concern about mobile phones has always been that radiation can penetrate deep into a child’s skull because it is so much thinner and smaller than an adult’s. Standards for phones are set for a large, thick-skulled, man, although half of the world’s four billion cell phones are used by people under twenty. The SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) printed on the box relates simply to the phone’s capacity to heat tissue, as manufacturers and standard setters initially refused to believe that there could be any other detrimental effect from radio frequency radiation.

This is strange as our bodies run on electrical

currents, which are easily disrupted by pulsed frequencies, as has been demonstrated in a study

by Dr Magda Havas and colleagues, showing heart arrhythmias triggered by DECT (cordless) phones.

In the digital age this poses new health risks depending on a person’s susceptibility, the density and intensity of the radiation, and the length of time they are exposed to it. Children are certainly more susceptible because they are still growing, and their neural circuitry will not be fully formed until they reach their early twenties. Until then, they need protection from anything that could interfere with their brain’s development.

In France, this research has led to the decision to ban children in primary school from using mobile phones, and discouraging mobile phone advertising aimed at children. They are also removing wireless communication systems from public places such as libraries, and hospitals, after workers complained of feeling ill at work.

The Bioinitiative Report in 2007 was the work of a group of eminent, international scientists, who examined existing research into the health effects of electromagnetic radiation, and especially its impact on the immune system, behaviour, childhood cancers, breast cancer, and brain tumours. This epic work concluded that the safety standards for

Other Useful Websites: www.familiesonline.co.uk/radiation our own detailed guide to this issue with lots more information www.bioinitiative.org – for Bioinitiative Report www.powerwatch.org.uk - the latest research, clearly explained www.es-uk.info – support to people with symptoms of electrosensitivity

Books: Radiation Rescue: 4 steps to safeguard your family from the other inconvenient truth – the health hazards of wireless technology.

Kerry Crofton, 2009 Disconnect: The Truth about Cell Phone Radiation, What the Industry Has Done to Hide it, and How to Protect Your Family.

Dr Devra Davis, 2010

exposure need to be revised downwards.

Dr Ronald Herberman, director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute was being cautious when in 2008 he drafted a memo to staff, warning of the dangers of mobile phones, and urging them to limit their use because of the risk of cancer. Top of his list of precautions is that children should use mobiles only for emergencies,

in recognition of the fact that their growing brain tissue is likely to be more sensitive to the electromagnetic radiation from mobile phones.

Alasdair Philips from Powerwatch, an independent group that investigates the safety of mobile phones, revealed that safety advice was generally to be found only in the small print.

Manuals for the Blackberry (The Torch), for example, warn users to “use hands-free operation if available and keep the device at least 25mm from your body (including the abdomen of pregnant women and the lower abdomen of teenagers)” when it is switched on.

Dr Davis’s advice is, never carry a live mobile phone next to your body, and always use a headset. You can see her video for teenagers on her website, www.environmentalhealthtrust.org or check out the guidance from a group of concerned parents, who have looked closely at the science, www.wiredchild.org, which includes: • Keeping calls short or sending texts • Replacing wireless equipment with non-wireless • Changing to a low-radiation or analogue baby monitor • Turning all wireless equipment off at night, in the car, and when near pregnant women, or children.

Patty Hemingway (RMANM) is a family homeopath, with a special interest in electromagnetic radiation sickness www.pattyhemingway.com

WIN tickets to Joseph at THE HEXAGON

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HEXAGON

When Bill Kenwright brings his renowned production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT to the Hexagon this February audiences will undoubtedly recognize the young man in the leading role… KEITH JACK was one of the most popular finalists in the hit BBC series Any Dream Will Do.

This colourful retelling of the biblical story about Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours sings out to young and old alike with a score which is wall to wall hits - including Close Every Door and Any Dream Will Do. Joseph will be showing at the Hexagon, Reading from Tue 1 until Sat 5 February. We have one family ticket (4 tickets) for the 7.30pm show on Tuesday February 1 for one lucky family to win. Closing date 23 January.

For further information visit www.readingarts.com or call 0118 960 6060 to book.

To enter the Joseph competition just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/competitions

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011

Great Offers from Free artwork from TERRI JONES ART

Why not give a truly unique gift this Mother’s Day? Terri Jones is a local artist from Twyford who specialises in creating original artworks. Clients commission her to draw and paint portraits (of children, pets & adults), landscapes and murals (indoor & outdoor), as unique and very special gifts. For Mother’s Day, Terri is offering a free A4 print of every artwork commissioned, so you get two artworks for the price of one.

Commission prices start at £100, gift vouchers are available.

Offer ends 28 February.

To book your artwork commission telephone Terri Jones on 07717 532323 quoting your Families offer code.

HALCYON

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TERRI JONES ART

20% Discount at HALCYON Treat yourself this winter with a relaxing facial or massage from Halcyon in Twyford. You can enjoy a special discount of 20% on all Dermalogica facials or any massages (Swedish, aromatherapy or hot stone) taken in January and February.

Whether your skin needs a seasonal pick-me-up or specialist treatment, Halcyon can determine what’s right for you. Alternately, let their experienced therapists help you forget about the stresses of the Christmas period with one of their relaxing massages, guaranteed to help you unwind.

Offer ends 28 February.

To book your discounted treatment telephone Halcyon on 0118 934 0355 quoting your Families offer code.

To receive your offer code just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers today.

To receive your offer code just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers today.

HARRISON CLINIC

NEW REFLECTION IMAGE CONSULTANCY

WIN a Nutrition Consultation from the HARRISON CLINIC

Have you ever wondered if the foods you are eating are making you unwell?

To celebrate a new year and new beginnings, the Harrison Clinic are offering one lucky reader a FREE one hour consultation with their Nutritionist; Julia Charles. The consultation includes a full intolerance test and diet advice!

Julia has a very personal and natural approach to nutrition encouraging patients to work with the body’s natural balance to help restore health. Programmes are tailormade for the individual, taking into account busy lifestyles, time and financial restraints. Closing date 10 February.

If you are not a lucky winner and would like to find out more about what the Harrison Clinic can do for you just visit www.harrisonclinic.co.uk or call 0118 9762253.

To enter the Harrison Clinic competition just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/ competitions today.

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To find out more about Halcyon just visit www.halcyon-brw.co.uk

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To find out more about Terri Jones Art just visit www.terrijonesart.com

Save £65 on a Consultation from NEW REFLECTION

A very colourful and stylish offer from New Reflection to help you start the new year with a real new you! This is an amazing opportunity and the benefits will last you a lifetime. During January and February you can buy a Colour Consultation together with a Style Consultation for only £150. This is a big saving of £65!!! You’ll look amazing in your best colours and feel fantastic in your flattering styles forever. Offer ends 28 February.

To book your discounted consultation telephone Jo Haley on 07590 512 376 quoting your Families offer code.

To find out more about New Reflection Image Consultancy just visit www.newreflection.biz To receive your offer code just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers today.

Just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers to take part today!

Thames Valley West

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Choose one of these great activities to give your child a new interest in the new year.

Children 3-6yrs

1st

with mummy or daddy session FREE in Wokingham Call Liz on 07759 812016 alouetteclub@yahoo.com Rugbytots® is a weekly play session for children between the ages of two and seven.

Separated into three age groups, Rugbytots® combines the multiple skills used in rugby with a fun, energetic and structured play programme designed to enhance your child’s social and physical skills.

Whether the next step for your child is mini-rugby or ballet, Rugbytots® aims to provide the foundations which will enable them to progress with confidence.

All Rugbytots® classes are fully insured and will be run by an RFU qualified lead coach who is trained in paediatric first aid and has been CRB checked.

For further information please call

0845 313 3255

michele@rugbytots.co.uk ･ www.rugbytots.co.uk

Don’t miss your next issue of – out at the start of March with Childcare and Dance & Drama specials PAGE 32

Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011