Families TVW Issue 57 Jan-Feb 2012

EE FR Thames Valley West January/February 2012

Issue 57 • 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.

The online reading program for children!

5 weeks FREE access with this code: UKJ23TVW Register for FREE at www.readingeggs.co.uk

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle, Please call Mandee Lal 01753 202257

Bumps & Babes Family Holidays School Roundup

Confidence, Communication and Concentration Book your FREE Drama Class today Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with Perform’s unique drama, dance and singing classes. Our weekly workshops will do wonders for their social, linguistic and physical development as well as being the best fun they’ll have all week.

perform.org.uk

Classes for 4 – 8s and 8 – Visit perform 12s. .org.uk to find your nearest venue.

0845 400 1283

HENLEY • READING • WOKINGHAM • BRACKNELL • NEWBURY Your local guide to what to do and where to go with the children

Look out for lots of great activities to keep your children fit, healthy and on the move in

Softplay • Playframe Padded Toddler Area Video Games • Disco • Café Baby & Toddler Classes Holiday Workshops & Events Birthday Parties

/DVHU 7DJ 3DUWLHV Book now for our Half Term events!

Newbury

Northway House, York Rd Newbury RG14 7NF

Tel. 0845 2011268

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Call your local Stagecoach to Enrol Bracknell Bracknell North Henley Maidenhead Newbury

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Reading East Reading North Reading West

01932 348844 07752 981508 0844 800 9482

www.stagecoach.co.uk

The UK’s first rugby specific play programme for young children

For further information please call

Eddie Catz Newbury, Weds 5.15-6.15pm for 6-12 yrs www.eddiecatz.com Krazy Klub, Thatcham, Mon 5.30-6.30pm for 6-11yrs and 6.45-8pm for 12-16 yrs www.krazy-klub.co.uk Ladies Only classes, Boxercise, Circuit Training, Self-Defence Courses, Body Toning, Personal Training 1-2-1 Available to teach anywhere, 24 years of experience, CRB checked, fully qualified and insured, family discount available plus term bookings.

michele@rugbytots.co.uk

Call Leroy on 0118 958 7085 or 07786 062 560 www.boxingandmartialartsclub.co.uk

Weekly play session for children from 2 - 7 years.

A fun, energetic and structured play programme.

0845 313 3255

PAGE 2

Boxing, Martial Arts and Fitness Academy for Adults and Children

Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

inthisissue ISSUE 57 • JAN/FEB 2012

Visit us now at www. familiestvw.co.uk

4 News & Views 8 School News Including Open Days and Bursaries 14 Bumps & Babes

14 Reflux in babies 16 Confident Birthing 17 Eat Well during Pregnancy

18 Parent & Toddler Groups

Find a group near you

20 Clubs & Classes News 21 New Year, New You Change your life for the better 24 Family Holidays

A Happy New Year to all our readers, advertisers and distributors! Let’s hope it’s a happy and healthy one.

Here at Families TVW this year’s resolution is to bring you an even bigger and better magazine. If you need a little help with your own New Year’s promises turn to our New Year, New You feature starting on page 21. And expectant mums shouldn’t miss our Bumps and Babes section. We’ve got a guide to healthy eating for two, an article on reflux in babies and details of two local mums who are helping women to prepare well for birth.

If choosing your child’s new school is on your mind, take a look at our schools section which has information on open days plus how to get help with school fees. Or, if the cold, grey weather has you dreaming of sunshine and beaches, turn to page 24 for lots of great holiday ideas.

Karen and Jane

26 What’s On 28 Competitions 31 Ragdale Hall

Front cover photo features Cuddledry Kangaroo care baby towel, www.cuddledry.com

Don’t miss these great offers and competitions

To advertise: Tel: 0118 954 6893 adverts@familiestvw.co.uk Contact us: editor@familiestvw.co.uk

Editor’s Letter

Thames Valley West

Designed by: Graphic Resolutions 01438 871600 Next issue: March/April – Childcare, Nurseries, Easter Activities Booking Deadline – 1 February

25% off inkjet cartridges – page 4 Supercamps early booking discount – page 6 FREE Reading Eggs trial – page 7 25% discount for first term at Talent Stop – page 20 Half price Jo Jingles baby classes – page 20 25% off Theatrebugs parties – page 20 FREE financial health check – page 21 2 for 1 sessions at Reading Climbing Centre – pages 26 and 28 Win a family meal at Bel & The Dragon – page 28 25% discount at Halcyon – page 28 Win an osteopathic consultation – page 28 10% off Big Dinosaur Show at The Lookout – page 29

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PAGE 3 Thames Valley West 22/11/2011 16:59

News & Views

Calling all Harry Potter fans!

We had so much to tell you we couldn’t fit it all in!

Find it online at www.familiestvw.co.uk Find a family friendly ski resort at www.familiestvw.co.uk/ skiresorts Cost cutting tips for new parents at www.familiestvw.co.uk/ costcutting Why diets don’t work at www.familiestvw.co.uk/diets Find family holiday reviews at www.familiestvw.co.uk/ holidays

FDA approved, non-allergenic materials.

Experienced, friendly & reliable service.

07505 104 376 www.facesbysarahmaie.co.uk

The UK’s newest attraction Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter opens its doors for the very first time from 31 March. This unique walking tour offers fans an opportunity to

journey behind-the-scenes at the studios where all eight Harry Potter films were made. Visitors can see for themselves the scale and detail of the sets, costumes, animatronics, special effects and props used in creating the films.

Included in the tour will be some of the film series’ most iconic sets including the Great Hall, Dumbledore’s office, Harry’s ‘cupboard under the stairs’ and the Ministry of Magic

and props such as Harry’s Nimbus 2000 and Hagrid’s motorcycle.

The studios are situated at Leavesden, north of London and close to the M25. Tickets are priced at £28 for adults, £21 for children aged 5-15 and £83 for a family of four. They must be booked in advance and are already selling fast. To find out more and pre-book tickets visit www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

Help with the New Year tidy-up You know you need help with decluttering when you’ve actually forgotten the colour of your child’s bedroom carpet its been covered in layers of toys and books for so long. bigbooklittlebookcardboardbox is an affordable, eco-friendly children’s bookcase that’s designed to store baby and toddler books that just won’t fit into a normal bookcase. Made in the UK from 80% recycled extra-sturdy corrugated cardboard, the box was inspired by library book holders. It comes fully assembled and stores more than 30 forward-facing books, with the low front allowing babies to see easily inside. Help your children to decorate it themselves using paint, stickers and collage. Buy online from www.bigbooklittlebookcardboardbox.co.uk for just £10 with free delivery – so it also won’t break the New Year budget.

Wild food – your free guide to local foraging A new guide to local food in hedgerows, fields, woods and gardens has just been published. Local Flavours: Your Guide to Responsible Foraging in Berks, Bucks and Oxon is a colourful compilation of recipes ancient and modern, advice on where to go and how to harvest wild food responsibly. Readers will find lots of tips, plant guides and historical background as well as details of local businesses and publications on foraging. Local food producers in Berks, Bucks

and Oxon have also contributed recipes and invitations to forage on their farms.

The golden rule of foraging is to never eat anything that you are not 100% sure is edible – mistakes can be deadly – and the guide usefully includes a list of foraging courses which are ideal if you want to learn directly from the experts.

The Guide is free and will be available in Berks, Bucks and Oxon libraries, Tourism Information Centres, Farmers’ Markets, farm shops and from public places with information displays. It can also be downloaded from www.local-food.net

PRINT MORE FOR LESS 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

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110-116 Fleet Road Fleet GU51 4PA Tel: 01252 815577 Fax: 01252 629902 Next to Sainsbury’s

PAGE 4

Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

News & Views

Tasty Tunes

White House Preparatory School INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL & NURSERY For girls and boys aged 2 to 11

Open Mornings 9.30am – noon Thursday 9th February 2012

Come and see for yourselves

Why come to the White House School?

ISI inspection - June 2011 rated us ‘Excellent & Outstanding’

• ’Ranked by the Sunday Times as one of the top 40 Prep schools in the country.’

• ‘Ranked by the Sunday Times as The Top Prep school in Wokingham.’

Contact us on: 0118 978 5151 www.whitehouse.wokingham.sch.uk Tel: 0118 978 5151 • email: office@whitehouse.wokingham.sch.uk White House Preparatory School, Finchampstead Road, Wokingham, RG40 3HD

Ella’s Kitchen, the organic children’s food company based near Henley, have been working with the University of Reading to find ways to help parents with that age-old problem – getting little ones to enjoy fruit and veg.

The study found that exploring food with all of their senses really encouraged children to try healthy food. Hearing stories, singing songs, smelling and hands-on exploration meant that they were more likely to eat the vegetables

they’d been interacting with.

To help families put this into practice Ellas’s Kitchen has teamed up with musical mum Rachel Stevens. The former S Club 7 star has recorded Tasty Tunes, revamps of classic songs such as Twinkle, Twinkle, all designed to get tiny taste buds excited about munching on healthy fruit and veg.

Tasty Tunes are available to download for free at www.ellaskitchen.co.uk

Active and Creative Parties for Boys and Girls Toddlers to Teens, Flower Fairies to Moshy Monsters All inclusive, high quality, themed parties with a home from home feel. We do it all.

Venue, Entertainment, Food...

NO STRESS, NO MESS! www.therealpartycompany.co.uk enquiries@therealpartycompany.co.uk Henley Rd, Caversham, RG46LJ

The dangers of mobile phones A new report recently published by UK charity MobileWise warns that children’s health is being jeopardised by the failure of Government and phone companies to respond to the growing body of evidence linking mobile phone use with health hazards. The new report Mobile phone health risks: the case for action to protect children brings together, for the first time, more than 200 peer-reviewed studies from a range of research institutions that link mobiles to serious health problems. Endorsed by a number of eminent doctors and scientists, the report highlights the growing and substantial body of evidence that has been obscured in the debate over these risks. Find the report at www.familiesonline.co.uk/EMRresourcepage Read simple tips to protect your family at www.familiesonline.co.uk/EMRsafety

Scoot ‘n Pull Children love to scoot, but what do you do when they run out of steam? One enterprising mum has come up with the solution, Scoot ‘n Pull. It’s a simple strap that attaches to your child’s scooter and allows you to pull them along - all they have to do is steer. It also ensures that they stay close to you near busy roads or crowded areas. When your child has finished scooting or has been dropped off at school, Scoot ‘n Pull can also be used as an

Britain’s leading National Physical Play Programme over-the-shoulder carry strap.

Scoot ‘n Pull costs £6.99 and is available to buy from www.ScootnPull.co.uk

Classes in Winnersh, Woodley, Wokingham, Finchampstead, Reading

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

FREE TRIAL sessions available Call Helen on 0118 973 6711 www.tumbletots.com/reading

Thames Valley West

PAGE 5

News & Views

Super deals with Super Camps

Competition winners Corn Exchange pantomime: Alison Sanders South Hill Park pantomime: Nerys Wynn-Jones Winter Wonderland: Claire Clinkard, Samantha Heenan Ascot Christmas Meeting: Julia Redmond, Holly Cooper, Tim Andrews The Look Out Discovery Centre: Melissa Lutzenhiser Odds Farm Park: Lea Evetts, Adele Ryle

If you’re an organised parent already thinking ahead to Easter and summer holiday childcare, booking your children into Super Camps can cost less with their early booking rates.

Super Camps is one of the leading activity camps in the UK, offering daylong sports, activities, arts and crafts at over 70 venues in the UK. By booking before 1 March, you can save up to £40 per week or up to £8 per day per child, and even use Childcare Vouchers towards the fees.

Corporate discounts are available to organisations whose staff are looking for holiday childcare.

Big savings can be made, as one 2011 Super Camp customer explains, “We were planning our childcare for the year. I paid for four days at Super Camps during the summer with my Childcare Vouchers and used the Early Booking rate and saved £32 off the standard rate. The provider runs from 8am to 6pm, so the childcare works out at about £2.68 per hour”.

For more information, visit www. supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 832 222.

Sea Urchins opens up the undersea world to children

MEADOWBROOK MONTESSORI SCHOOL

’Excellence in Education’

• Progressive, child-centred education from tots to 12 years • The best of mainstream & Montessori practice offering a fun, robust approach to learning • Weekly parent & toddler Montessori sessions • Positive Discipline parent workshops

Tel. 01344 890869 PAGE 6

Thames Valley West

www.meadowbrookmontessori.org

A fun new magazine aimed at children aged 5 to 15 has just launched.

Sea Urchins is all about marine life, conservation, nature, diving and all things aquatic presented in a fun, informative way with features, quizzes and games. The magazine’s creator Samantha Hewitt, is both a diving expert and a marine biologist. She aims to make the underwater world accessible to children everywhere and show them how they can do their bit to help with conservation. The first issue launches in February and costs £1.99 per issue or £14.99 for an annual subscription.

A pilot issue featuring Samantha’s sister Stacey Solomon is free to download from www.seaurchinsmag.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

News & Views

Learning to read can be easy and fun!

Reading Eggs is a highly interactive online program that makes learning to read a fun and enjoyable experience for all involved.

For child-led learning – where every child is an individual day care for boys & girls from 3 months • Full to 5 years of age (full and part time places available)

• Term time nursery/pre-school for 3-5 years a great start to your children’s • Giving education, preparing them for when they start in reception at whatever school you choose

in the pre-school benefit from full • Children time qualified teachers during term time in fees: Hot lunches, stationery, • Included swimming, languages (French, Spanish and Mandarin), football coaching, music & movement and pottery (activities are age dependent)

Care Vouchers and Early Years • Child Government funding accepted

Learn to read with Reading Eggs Reading Eggs was created as a unique online world where children learn to read. It supports each child’s learning by offering individual lessons that allow children to progress at their own rate.

flow across a number of spacious • Free rooms to potty train children whenever • Facilities parent and child is ready from as young as 3 months mix • Children with older children during day to day

And it really works!

Children love the games, songs, golden eggs and other rewards which, along with feeling proud of their reading, really motivate children to keep exploring and learning. Over 1 million children across the world have already had the Reading Eggs experience and the program is already being used by many teachers who incorporated the program into their daily lesson.

Children love working and playing on the computer and the Reading Eggs program is all about bringing out the best in each child.

Educationally sound The program has been developed by a highly experienced team of educational teachers, writers and developers. The Reading Eggs program focuses on a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words using skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success. It completely supports what children learn at school and will help to improve your child’s progress.

Children love it!

With interactive animations, fun games, great songs and lots of rewards, Reading Eggs is a great place to learn to read. Children are highly motivated to return again and again.

activities

ages are involved in events such as • Allsports day and school productions

Our Lady’s Nursery, The Avenue, Crowthorne RG45 6PB Tel: 01344 773394 www.ourladysprep.co.uk

And it’s growing!

Reading Eggs now has 120 big lessons which have been developed for 3 to 7 year olds and a placement test at the start of the program will ensure children start at the correct level for them. The next stage of the program, Reading Eggspress, is also now available for 8-13 year olds and includes lessons, games and activities covering comprehension and grammar.

You too can be one of the 90% of parents who reported a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills after using the program.

Using promotional code UKJ23TVW you can trial the site for free for an extended period of 5 weeks to see for yourself what the program entails and why it has been so successful. Simply visit www. readingeggs.co.uk, register your email address and once your account has been set up you can enter the code on your parent dashboard.

Happy Eggsploring!

Extended opening hours: 6am – 8pm

Maintain a happy and healthy smile

At Nine Mile Ride Dental Practice we understand how precious your child’s smile is. Let us help you and your child maintain a healthy and happy smile. We welcome all children up to the age of 18 for NHS treatment.

Established for 20 years.

Nine Mile Ride Dental Surgery, 193 Nine Mile Ride, Finchampstead, Berks RG40 4JD, 0118 973 3907 www.ninemiledental.co.uk

Watch the birdie!

You don’t have to be a seasoned twitcher, or even own a pair of binoculars, to join in the RSPB’s annual Big Garden Birdwatch. The RSPB relies on spotters young and old, on their own or in groups, to count the number of birds of different species sitting in their gardens or local parks over a period of one hour on either January 28 or 29. Visit www.rspb.org.uk for instructions and to download an identification chart if needed.

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

Thames Valley West

PAGE 7

School News Now you really can afford private education for your children

~ Places available in reception and year one in september 2012 ~

All of this is now available at just £500 per month!

• Wrap around care for 51 weeks of the year • Extended Curriculum tailored for your child • Opening times 8am-6pm each day extended • Specialist teachers for languages, football, to 6am-8pm by arrangement, with core school day 8.45am-3.45pm

• Education and care costs are spread equally over 12 months

• Small class sizes

swimming and pottery

• Four terms – allowing holidays out of peak season

• Participation in Forest Schools off-site visits • Hot lunch, tea and snacks included

Places are allocated on a first come first served basis. Please contact us for more information.

PAGE 8

Thames Valley West

Our Lady’s Preparatory School The Avenue, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6PB Tel: 01344 773394 Email: office@olps.co.uk www.ourladysprep.co.uk

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

School News

St Neot’s new head keeps it in the family New headmaster, Jerry Gear has just completed his first term at St Neot’s School, alongside his four-year-old son who joined Reception in September. Both have really enjoyed the experience.

“I have been hugely impressed by the kindness of the pupils and the consideration that they show towards each other,” Mr Gear told us. “I am sure that the space helps here. With over 70 acres, the children are able to let off steam during break times and also remove themselves from the potentially difficult

situations that arise in every school from time to time. This is much more difficult on a small site.

Our pastoral care is second to none and this impacts positively in the classroom, where the children have the confidence to perform to their potential as they prepare to move on to a wide variety of excellent senior schools.”

“Small classes and an even smaller adult: pupil ratio (1:9) means that each child receives a great deal of individual attention and this can only have a positive impact on their education.”

Plans to expand three Wokingham primary schools Three Wokingham primary schools could be expanded this September if council plans come to fruition. Under proposals from the borough council places would be increased at Colleton Primary School in Twyford (from 35 to 60 places per year), Winnersh Primary School (from 60 to 90 places) and Hawkedon Primary School in Lower Earley (from 70 to 90 places). The expansions are needed due to increased birth rates which are leading to a rise in demand for school places. Meetings and public consultations about the plans are currently taking place.

Child-centred learning at Meadowbrook Meadowbrook Montessori School, set in beautiful countryside near Warfield, has been delivering child centred education for over twenty years. It combines the best of Montessori practice, a personalised learning approach that supports and nurtures the whole child, with many aspects of the National Curriculum. The school’s experienced team of highly qualified staff creates a relaxed and secure family atmosphere within a structured learning environment. High academic standards are achieved by this approach, helped by the very small class sizes.

A unique feature of Meadowbrook is its adoption of Positive Discipline© techniques.

Discipline does not rely on a system of punishment and rewards, instead children are taught the social and life skills to enable them to become responsible, respectful and resourceful.

Readers who are interested in this approach can find out more about Positive Discipline© and the courses that Meadowbrook run for parents at www.familiestvw.co.uk/positivediscipline

Meadowbrook is also one of the few Montessori schools in England that provides education for children from 15 months to 11

Open Mornings

Reaching over

100

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

years, starting with weekly parent and toddler sessions and continuing through the pre-primary and primary departments. Headteacher Serena Gunn has long-term plans to extend this ‘allthrough’ education even further with the addition of a Montessori Infant Toddler Department, for babies through to 3 year olds, and also a Secondary Department. This would mean that eventually children could remain at Meadowbrook until they were 18. There are also plans to extend school hours to offer greater support to working parents.

Serena told us: “In today’s educational world, the focus continues to move further away from the child and simultaneously, mainstream practice continues to ebb and flow with government tides and dictate. It is right and proper that Meadowbrook takes its place as a viable alternative – a choice for child-centered schooling.”

To find out more about Meadowbrook visit their website www.meadowbrookmontessori.org or call them on 01344 890 869.

Friday 13/01/12 and Friday 27/4/12 9:30am to 12:00pm

Nurturing the potential of EVERY child Valuing Difference, Inspiring Excellence and Encouraging Self Belief Delivering a creative experience, sporting prowess and academic excellence Resilient, Reflective and Resourceful learners.

Extended day and holiday care throughout the year School Transport available Awards and Scholarships available Please contact us if you are interested in attending an Open Morning .

E headspa@holmegrange.org T 0118 978 1566 www.holmegrange.org Holme Grange School, Heathlands Road, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AL

Moreusabout education at www.familiestw.co.uk/education Visit now at www. familiestvw.co.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 9

School News

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

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 2 February 9.15 - 11.00 am

CROSFIELDS SCHOOL READING

For times of Head’s talks and for more information please visit our website. For enquiries contact Admissions on 0118 987 2256 or email admissions@theabbey.co.uk

•

BERKSHIRE

Co-educational Independent Day Preparatory School for children aged 3-13

OPEN MORNING

www.theabbey.co.uk

Tuesday 24th January 2012

9:15am -11:30am with Headmaster’s address at 9:30am

‘‘The overall achievement of pupils at Crosfields School is high and their attainment is far above age-related expectations.’’

ISI Inspection 2011

ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL Reg. Charity no. 277077

Please contact us for further details or to order a prospectus 0118 987 1810 / pa@crosfields.com

www.crosfields.com

CROSFIELDS SCHOOL

open day Jan 2012.indd 1

READING

•

BERKSHIRE

12/7/2011 1:36:54

Co-educational Independent Day Preparatory School for children aged 3-13

Year 7 (age 11) BURSARY AWARDS 2012 worth up to 100% of fees* (*means tested)

Crosfields School offers awards each year for children entering Year 7 who would not otherwise have the opportunity of an independent education and who display particular talent in academic work, sports, the arts or music.

Open MORNING

The school provides a first class education and has a strong record of entry success at age 13+ to both independent and grammar schools.

Tuesday 24th January 2012 9.15 am to 12.15pm To reserve a place at the Open Morning, please call the Registrar on 0118 966 1000 or email admissions@stjosephscollegereading.co.uk. We look forward to seeing you.

www.stjosephscollegereading.co.uk

PAGE 10 Thames Valley West FamiliesAd87x130Nov2011V1.indd 1

Please contact us for further details or to order a prospectus.

0118 987 1810 / pa@crosfields.com

www.crosfields.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

21/11/2011 10:42 am

School News

Independent School Open Days Bracknell and Ascot LVS, Ascot (co-ed day & boarding, 4-18 yrs) 01344 882 770 www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk Sat tours 21 Jan & 17 Mar, 9.45am with talks by Head Teachers at 10am, booking required please telephone the Registrar to reserve a place. Open Mornings Thu 23 Feb & Wed 18 Apr, 9.30am-12noon, no booking required.

Meadowbrook Montessori School, Warfield, Bracknell (co-ed, 5-12yrs) 01344 890 869 www.meadowbrookmontessori.org Open Day Sat 11 Feb, 10.30am.

The Marist Preparatory School, Ascot (girls only, 2½-11yrs) 01344 626 137 www.themaristschools.com Open Morning Fri 9 Mar, 9.45-11.30am.

The Marist Senior School, Ascot (girls only, 11-18yrs) 01344 624 291 www.themaristschools.com Open Morning Wed 7 Mar, 10am-12noon.

Our Lady’s Preparatory School and Day Nursery, Crowthorne (co-ed 3mths-11yrs) 01344 773 394 www.olps.co.uk Open Mornings Fri 27 Jan & Sat 28 Jan, Fri 18 May & Sat 19 May, 9.30am-12noon.

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

Dragon School, Oxford (co-ed day 4-8yrs, co-ed day & boarding school 8-13yrs) 01865 315 405 enquiries@dragonschool.org www.dragonschool.org Please contact the school for details.

Radley College, Abingdon (boarding school, boys only 13-18yrs) 01235 543 174 www.radley.org.uk Please contact school for details.

Shiplake College, Shiplake (day & boarding school, boys only 11–18yrs, girls sixth form) 0118 940 2455 www.shiplake.org.uk Open Mornings Sat 14 Jan, Sat 17 March & Sat 12 May, 10am.

The Oratory School, Woodcote (Catholic day & boarding school, 11-18yrs) 01491 683 500 enquiries@oratory.co.uk www.oratory.co.uk Open Day Sat 19 May, 9.30am-12noon The Oratory Preparatory School, Goring Heath (Catholic, co-ed day & boarding school, 3-13 yrs) 0118 984 4511 www.oratoryprep.co.uk Open Morning Sat 10 Mar, 10am–12.30pm.

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 2 Feb, 9.15-11am.

Caversham Preparatory School, Caversham (co-ed day school, 3-11yrs) 0118 947 8684 www.cavershamschool.com Please contact school to arrange a visit.

Dolphin School, Hurst, Reading (co-ed 3-13yrs) 0118 934 1277 www.dolphinschool.com Open Morning Wed 18 Jan, 11am-12.15pm.

Hemdean House School, Caversham (co-ed infant & junior, girls only 11-18yrs) 0118 947 2590 www.hemdeanhouse.co.uk Assessment Day for entry into senior school Sat 4 Feb. Please contact school to arrange a visit.

Leighton Park School, Reading (co-ed day & boarding, 11-18yrs) 0118 987 9600 www.leightonpark.com Open Mornings Tue 24 Jan, Tue 28 Feb & Tue 20 Mar, 10.15am. Please register online.

Queen Anne’s School, Caversham (day & boarding, girls only, 11-18yrs) 0118 918 7333 www.qas.org.uk/bookonline Open Morning Fri 2 Mar, 9.30am.

Boarder Taster Weekend 17/18 Mar. Taster Day Tue 28 Feb. Contact school to reserve your place.

Reading Blue Coat School, Sonning (day, boys 11-18yrs, girls 16-18yrs) 0118 944 1005 www.rbcs.org.uk Open Morning Sat 28 April from 9.30am.

St Edwards School, Reading (boys only, 4-13 yrs) 0118 957 4342 www.stedwards.org.uk Open Morning Fri 3 Feb & Fri 4 May, 9-11am.

St Joseph’s College, Reading (co-ed 3-18yrs) 0118 966 1000 www.stjosephscollegereading.co.uk College and Prep Open Mornings Tue 24 Jan & Tue 28 Feb, 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 Open Morning Wed 8 Feb & Thu 8 Mar, 9.30am-12noon.

Crosfields School, Shinfield (co-ed day prep, 3-13yrs) 0118 987 1810 pa@crosfields.com www.crosfields.com Open Morning Tue 24 Jan, 9.1511.30am, with Head’s Address at 9.30am.

St Neot’s Preparatory School, Eversley (co-ed day & weekly boarding school, 3 mths-13 yrs) 0118 973 2118 www.stneotsprep.co.uk Open Morning Fri 24 Feb, 9.30– 11.45am.

Wellington College (co-ed day & boarding school, 13-18yrs) 01344 444 000 www. wellingtoncollege.org.uk Open Day Sat 25 Feb & Sat 21 Apr, 10.30am. Please register in advance.

Yateley Manor School, Yateley (co-ed day school with nursery, 3-13 yrs) 01252 405500 www.yateleymanor.com Open Mornings for Pre-Prep Mon 23 Jan & Tue 31 Jan, 9am.

Open Morning for whole school Sat 17 Mar 10am. Please call to book your place.

West Berkshire Pangbourne College, Pangbourne (co-ed, 11-18yrs,) 0118 984 2101 www.pangbournecollege.com Please contact school for details.

Wokingham

Bearwood College, Wokingham (coed day nursery, prep & senior school, 3mths-18yrs, boarders accepted 11-18 yrs) 0118 974 8300 www.bearwoodcollege.co.uk Open Morning for Senior School Wed 18 Jan, 9.15am. Please call to confirm attendance.

Holme Grange School, Wokingham, (co-ed day school, 3-13yrs) 0118 978 1566 www.holmegrange.org Open Morning Fri 13 Jan & Fri 27 Apr, 9.30am-12noon.

Luckley Oakfield School, Wokingham (girls only day & boarding, 11-18yrs) 0118 978 4175 www.luckley.wokingham.sch.uk Open Morning Tue 20 Mar, 9.30am-12noon.

Waverley School & Nursery, Wokingham, (co-ed, 3mths-11yrs) 0118 973 1121 www.waverleyschool.co.uk Open Day Sat 28 Jan, 10am-1pm or contact school for a time to suit you.

White House Preparatory School, Wokingham (co-ed, 2-11yrs) 0118 978 5151 www.whitehouse. wokingham.sch.uk Open Mornings Thu 9 Feb from 9.30am.

St Neot’s - a world of opportunity • Excellent pastoral care and first rate facilities in beautiful 70 acre site • Safe and stimulating environment for children from 3 months – 13 years • Focus on the individual child • Outstanding ISI Inspection report • More than 30 scholarships obtained in last 3 years including academic, art, music and sport • Day, weekly or flexi boarding • Artsmark awarded in June 2010

OPEN MORNING Friday 24th February (9.30am – 11.45am) Visit our website www.st-neots-prep.co.uk or telephone to register interest or to make an appointment Eversley, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 0PN Tel: 0118 973 9650 Email: pa@st-neots-prep.co.uk

More on education at www.familiestw.co.uk/education

Thames Valley West

PAGE 11

School News

Help wi In these days of economic uncertainty the cost of school fees is keeping many parents awake at night. The good news is that financial help is surprisingly widely available.

In fact, a recent survey by the Independent Schools Council (ISC) revealed that over a third of all pupils in ISC schools receive some financial help – and that number is rising. Whilst there are some government and charity funds available, over 80% of this help comes directly from the schools themselves in the form of scholarships and bursaries.

Scholarships are usually awarded after a competitive exam, audition or interview and normally take no account of financial need. Academic scholarships are the most common, but there are also awards for subjects as diverse as music, art, design and technology, ICT, sport and all-round ability.

Scholarships can cover up to 50% of the fees, although 10 or 20% is more common, and they are often ‘topped up’ by a bursary.

Bursaries are usually means-tested awards made by schools to the children of parents who cannot afford to pay full fees. In recent years there has been a marked trend away from scholarships towards bursaries and last year ISC schools gave around twice as much assistance in the form of bursaries as they did scholarships.

Most schools offer bursaries but the size of the ‘pot’ and the qualifying rules vary greatly from school to school. Some have a considerable amount and can even offer 110% of school fees to cover uniform and equipment.

The Oratory Preparatory School

Catholic independent day and boarding school for children aged 3 to 13

So what’s ava To give you an idea of the type of scholarships and bursaries available we contacted some local schools to find out what they offer. For more information about a school visit their website or contact them directly.

Contact details can be found on page 11.

The Oratory Preparatory School

Open Morning 2012

Saturday 10th March 10.00am - 12.30pm YEAR 3 SCHOLARSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE

Tel: 0118 984 4511

email: office@oratoryprep.co.uk website: www.oratoryprep.co.uk Goring Heath • South Oxfordshire • RG8 7SF

PAGE 12

Thames Valley West

The Oratory Preparatory School has Scholarships available for Year 3 entry. The Scholarship assessment addresses both numeracy and literacy in an informal setting during the course of a morning.

St Joseph’s College All candidates applying for entry into Year 7 are required to sit an entrance assessment and are automatically considered for an Academic Scholarship. These Scholarships are reviewed annually up to the end of Year 11.

Scholarships and awards are also

given on entry into the Sixth Form and for Music, Art, Drama and Sport. Bursaries are available at all levels, dependent upon a meanstested application to the Governors. This year a limited number of Scholarship Bursaries are also available worth up to 50% of fees for entry into Year 9 this September. These will be awarded for either Academic, Performing arts or Sports excellence, combined with a proven financial need.

Additionally, four Presentation College Trust Bursaries of up to 75% are on offer to Catholic children interested in applying for Year 7 entry in September.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

School News

ith school fees F&F Back to School

Some give them only to the more able and talented pupils, others to the children of past pupils, of teachers and of those in the services or the clergy. Many schools also have a fund set aside to provide short-term help for parents of existing pupils who are suffering unforeseen financial difficulty.

To find schools that offer particular types of awards, e.g. for art, languages or music, visit the website for the Independent Schools of the British Isles at www.isbi.com; click on ‘school search’ and then ‘scholarships’. Alternatively, information on awards can be obtained in more detail from individual schools, see page 11 for contact details.

Aside from school awards, there are also a limited number of educational grants available, funded by various trusts and charities. These tend to be for families in genuine need who fulfill the particular criteria of the trust. For instance, there are trusts that give out grants if a parent has worked in the clothing industry (Fashion and Textile Children’s Trust) or is a professional actor (Actors Charitable Trust). The Educational Trusts Forum at www.educational-grants.org has details of them.

Outstandingly talented pupils may be eligible for fee assistance at certain specialist dance and music schools through the Music and Dance Scheme.

This can cover up to 100% of fees, depending on parental income. Schools include the Royal Ballet School and The Yehudi Menuhin School. Find out more at www.education.gov.uk/mds Choir schools also provide generous fee assistance, with nine out of ten choristers qualifying for some help. Government support comes through the Choir Schools’ Scholarship Scheme which helps talented singers, girls as well as boys, from low-income families wishing to train at any of 36 choir schools.

Normal ages of entry, after voice trials, are 7-9; some places are available at 10.

More information is available at www.choirschools.org.uk

ailable?

The Abbey School

St Edward’s School

Waverley School

St. Edward’s offers Academic, Sports and Arts Scholarships in Years 3 and 7 and the award is based on previous performance and National Curriculum levels.

Limited Bursaries are available and are offered on completion of a means tested application form.

Academic Scholarships are offered to pupils currently in Years 1 to 5. The Scholarship Awards of up to 50% of the school fees may be supplemented by a Bursary, in circumstances of financial hardship. Performance Scholarships are available to pupils aged 7-11 who have exceptional musical or dramatic skills. Candidates are required to prepare two performances, in addition to the entrance examinations, in order to be considered for this award. Families are invited to register their interest with the school office. Candidates will be invited to Waverley for examinations and a formal interview to be held on 1 Feb and 25 April. Further details will be provided upon registration.

Crosfields School Crosfields has a number of Bursary awards available from September offering up to 100% of fees (dependent on meanstesting). These are for children entering Year 7 who would not otherwise have the opportunity of an independent education and who display particular talent in Academic work, Sports, the Arts or Music. Please contact the Bursary Department for further details on 0118 987 1810 or email pa@crosfields.com

Academic Scholarships are offered to the highest achieving candidates in the Year 7 entrance exam and may be held for up to five years. Students entering the school in Year 9 may be awarded a three year Scholarship on the basis of their academic performance, while girls entering the Sixth Form may apply for a two year Scholarship. Academic Scholarships may be held in conjunction with means-tested Bursaries.

Specialist Scholarships are offered for outstanding ability in Sport, Music, Art and Design, Drama and ICT. The assessment process for each can be found on the school’s website. While the financial value of a specialist scholarship is nominal, the associated prestige is significant.

Specialist Scholarships may be held in conjunction with Academic Scholarships. Means-tested bursaries of up to 100% are available for academically able girls who would benefit from an education at the school, but may not otherwise be able to attend.

More about education at www.familiestw.co.uk/education

Holme Grange School Holme Grange awards a number of Scholarships each year to existing pupils looking to enter Year 7. They include both Academic as well as Sports, Music and Arts Scholarships. An Exhibition Award is also available to a new pupil entering the school in year 7 subject to assessment and an interview. All pupils applying for Scholarships must have the ability as well as the right attitude and work ethos.

Bursaries are also available to new and gifted pupils on a means tested basis and are also subject to a successful application process that will include an interview.

Dragon Preparatory School Needs-based Bursaries can cover all or a substantial portion of the fees for boarding or day places.

Awards of up to half the fees are also made to candidates chosen on the basis of significant promise in their academic, sporting or cultural abilities.

Thames Valley West

PAGE 13

Bumps & Babes www.harrisonclinic.co.uk

Osteopathy Physiotherapy Acupuncture Cranial Osteopathy Sports Massage Nutritional Consultancy Homeopathy

Exceptional care in a friendly, relaxed environment 0118 976 2253

Living Before you have a baby, you’re told to see feeding time as a time of bonding. But for some mums it’s anything but. Families Leeds looks at how living with a baby with reflux can drive you to the very brink of despair.

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

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Thames Valley West

Vicki Gilbert is a third time mum.

To see pictures of her, her husband Sean and her happy smiling children in the early stages of baby Joe’s life, it’s hard to believe what was going on every time she closed the front door.

“From being a couple of weeks old, Joe would scream and scream,” Vicki remembers. “At one point, the screaming went on for 18 hours a day. He was hysterical when you laid him down for a nappy change. He screamed through every car journey. The only respite we got was a 5 hour stretch at night when he literally passed out from exhaustion. It pushed us to the end of our tethers.”

Reflux is the contents of the stomach coming back up into the gullet. The acid causes a burning sensation which can make a baby vomit, arch their back and cry inconsolably. It’s thought about half of all babies have reflux in the first 3 months of their lives to some degree, with most developing it at about 2 months.

That figure reduces to 5% by the time babies are 10 months old.

Babies get reflux because the stomach valve hasn’t developed properly. That valve keeps the food and the acid, in the stomach. When it’s not working properly and baby is full, that food and acid comes back up.

Symptoms vary dependent on the child and the severity of the case, but the inconsolable crying described by Vicki is common.

“Nothing worked. It was utterly heartbreaking. I remember being in my bedroom and shouting to my husband to call an ambulance. We never actually did it, but we were so near on so many occasions.”

Vicki’s story is repeated on

forums and in chat rooms across the internet. There are stories of families who have been driven to the brink by their babies’ suffering. Many turn to Alison Scott-Wright, an expert in reflux also known as The Magic Sleep Fairy.

“New mothers assume that feeding their newborn will be a positive experience,” explains Alison. “Sadly this isn’t true for those whose babies suffer from reflux. Reflux can’t be cured, but it can be controlled. We have to crack the ‘reflux code’ for each baby to find out what helps relieve the individual symptoms.”

Those symptoms vary. For some it’s excessive vomiting, irritability, a white coating on the tongue, excessive mucus, refusal to feed and poor sleep habits.

These sleep habits are a product of the pain your child is experiencing, and it’s those habits that can remain long after the baby has outgrown the reflux. For babies with ‘silent’ reflux – that’s all the pain and irritability, without the vomiting – diagnosis is more difficult. But Alison ScottWright says it’s vital parents listen to even the youngest of babies.

“Babies cry to communicate.

If they are crying for long periods of time, then there’s something wrong and, in my experience, it’s usually a digestive issue.”

Vicki Gilbert found support from her local GP and says without that, she’s not sure how she would have coped. He listened, explained and prescribed medication that has, after 7 months, eased Joe’s pain.

Consultant Paediatric Surgeon Emma Sidebottom says it is important to consult with your health care professionals about treatments – like products to JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Bumps & Babes

with REFLUX Reflux – spot the sym ptoms

Does your baby….

• Vomit • Have bouts of inconsolab le crying • Arch their back • Have frequent hiccups an d excess dribble • Have a white coating in their tongue • Refuse to feed • Have poor sleep pattern s • Have excess mucus • Display signs of pain and irritability thicken milk which helps baby keep it down, as well as acid blockers.

“Some parents experiment with the hungry baby milks.

These are designed to stay in the stomach for longer. But if you have a baby with reflux, milks like that will make it worse.”

If you’re not getting the support you need from your GP, Emma says you can ask to be referred to your local hospital’s Paediatric Clinic. The specialists there will be able to see children at much shorter notice than waiting for a GP referral.

“Remember that 99% of babies with reflux will outgrow it completely without any treatment,” adds Emma Sidebottom. “Reflux is made better by your baby growing.

The two milestones are starting on solids – which stay down better than milk – and children

becoming more upright. It will get better.”

And it is getting better for Vicki Gilbert and 7 month old Joe. He’s on a cocktail of medication that has brought his symptoms under control. For the past month, life has been a little more normal. Like many children with reflux, he’s developed poor sleep habits but that’s a battle for later. The sleep he does take is in a cot propped up at an angle. Vicki says it’s been incredibly tough, but she hopes other parents of babies with reflux will take strength from her experience.

“If your instinct tells you something is wrong, don’t listen to those who say your baby is ‘unsettled’ or ‘colicky’.

Seek help from your GP. If they won’t listen, see another GP in the practice. It is NOT normal for babies to scream for hours on end.”

Top 5 tips from the Magic Sleep Fairy • Research, research, research. Go on online forums and chat to others mums. Look at www.livingwithreflux.org or www.littlerefluxers.co.uk Also, join my Facebook page and get advice from other parents.

• Keep a journal. Include videos of any reflux episodes by your baby and photos. Use these when visiting health care professionals.

• Go to your GP and make them listen. This may mean returning time and again.

• Get someone to come along to the GP with you. If you are suffering from a lack of sleep and are emotionally charged, you may need support to get your case across.

• Remember, you are your baby’s only voice. That inconsolable cry is trying to tell you something. Trust your instinct and don’t be fobbed off.

Alison Scott-Wright is author of The Sensational Baby Sleep Plan and an expert in infant reflux. www.alisonscott-wright.com

10%unt discofees on

Cost cutting tips for new parents at www.familiestvw.co.uk/costcutting

Thames Valley West

PAGE 15

Bumps & Babes

Coffee, cake and conversation with Confident Birthing...

Lisa and Karen are two mums from Reading who are passionate about birth.

They have created Confident Birthing with the aim of providing women and their birth partners with the opportunity to prepare well for birth. Their support services include Lamaze Antenatal Classes, Mum & Baby Coffee Mornings and Lamaze Doula Support both during and after birth. Here they tell us more.

Why Lamaze?

Having attended Lamaze classes whilst pregnant, we experienced first-hand the benefits of the Lamaze approach and the depth of knowledge and practical insight that it gives. We are convinced that taking time out to fully explore the process of labour and birth and understanding how physical, emotional and environmental factors can impact the experience is extremely important. Good birth preparation can not only have a positive impact upon how labour unfolds, it can also enhance the whole experience for women, their partners and their baby. Millions of women around the world have benefited from using the Lamaze approach to achieve their desired childbirth outcome.

So what is Lamaze?

Lamaze promotes childbirth as a natural, safe and healthy life event and an experience which can shape women and their families.

Preparing with Lamaze encourages women to believe in their bodies’ ability to birth and to understand the effects of unnecessary PAGE 16

Thames Valley West

Karen and Lisa from Confident Birthing

interventions. Lamaze Antenatal classes provide birth partners with tools to ensure their support is the best it can be. Options for place of birth, care providers and how to stay active during birth are explored to help new parents make their own, informed choices.

Lamaze wholly values the process of pregnancy as an important part of the journey where both mums and dads form lifelong bonds with their babies. Likewise, Lamaze sees parenting as joyful, important and deeply satisfying work that is worthy of everyone’s best efforts.

Lamaze Antenatal classes cover everything you need to know from late pregnancy, through to labour and birth and then newborn care, bonding and breastfeeding.

What is a doula?

We are two of only a few Lamaze antenatal teachers in the UK who also offer doula support. A doula is a female care-giver who accompanies women and their birth partner during the labour and birth experience providing practical, emotional and physical support.

During your pregnancy we offer a listening ear, companionship and

access to current evidence-based information. When labour begins we join you at home and assist with creating a calm environment in which you can labour calmly and at your own pace. We may offer comfort measures such as massage, use of hydrotherapy, aromatherapy and positions and movement which can help the process. We remain with you whether you transfer to hospital or stay at home and work with your birth partner to support you as you get to the birthing stage.

Immediately after birth we ensure you have adequate space and time to bond with your new baby and we then assist with feeding as required. Women who have been supported by a doula report an increased sense of satisfaction with their birth experience. Research actually suggests that the continuous support of a doula can reduce first time labour by up to two hours, decrease the chance of Caesarean section by up to 50% and decrease the need for pain relief. Lamaze doulas offer doula support with all the benefits of the Lamaze approach and a real sense of confidence in women’s inherent ability to birth.

How can you find us?

We are teaching Lamaze Antenatal Classes from January in Pangbourne, with a two-day comprehensive class for first-timers and a one-day refresher for second and third-timers. We also offer our Doula Support before, during and after birth. Our Bump Club for expectant women offers a range of information and discussion to help you understand your options and enable you to make informed decisions about your birth. Finally, you can join us for coffee, cake and conversation on the 3rd Monday morning of the month at Posha Café in Pangbourne where we hold a Mums & Babies Coffee Morning. These are for new mums and babies to meet together to share their journeys of motherhood. You get time and space to relax, talk, discuss and be listened to in an informal and friendly setting.

To find out more visit www.confidentbirthing.co.uk, email info@confidentbirthing.co.uk or call Karen on 0118 942 0268 / 07810 484 772 or Lisa on 0118 941 1779 / 07747 806 033.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Bumps & Babes Glow Maternity & Baby

Healthy eating during pregnancy •

•

Julia Charles gives us advice on what we should and shouldn’t be eating as well as highlighting the importance of stress reduction, keeping fit and resting whilst pregnant.

Beneficial Foods to Eat: Here is a general outline of recommendations suggesting what to eat and drink during pregnancy: • At least 2 litres of still water per day.

• A good selection of wholegrains such as brown rice, quinoa, oats, spelt, rye, barley, millet, rye or whole-wheat bread.

• 2 to 3 pieces of fruit per day – always eat fruit on an empty stomach, never for pudding as it sits on top of food and ferments. Try to aim for organic to avoid overloading on pesticides, insecticides and fertilisers.

• Lots of fresh vegetables – aim to eat a varied selection of fresh vegetables every day – between 60-75% of a plate of food. If you can,

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

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

•

•

include as much colour as possible and try to eat in season and organically where available; sweet potatoes, butternut squash, carrots, broccoli, tenderstem, kale, peas, celery, tomatoes, cabbage, red onions, courgette, artichokes, fennel, avocados, watercress and rocket are all good choices.

Good protein – raw nuts, seeds, beans, peas, lentils, cooked eggs, quinoa, houmous, oats, milk (goat’s especially), sheep’s and goats’ cheese, free-range chicken, turkey and wild salmon.

Calcium rich foods – sardines, yoghurt, and milk (goats’ or sheep’s are very high in calcium and bioavailable), wild salmon, hard cheese, cottage cheese, spinach, broccoli, kale, almonds, organic dried apricots.

Beneficial fats – DHA & EPA from a marine source – especially wild salmon, avocados, nuts, olives, seeds, nut butters (avoid those with added palm oils and salt), fatty fish – herring, mackerel, sardines.

Iron-rich foods – try to eat a good selection of these foods. Two or three portions per day would be ideal to support the rapid growth of the baby and you; sardines, blackstrap molasses, jacket potatoes (eat the skin too), apricots, figs, watercress, rocket, lamb, beef, spring greens, kale, artichoke, broccoli, peas, hard boiled eggs.

Foods to avoid: • Soft and unpasteurised cheese; brie, camembert, feta, Mexican cheese, blue-veined cheese.

• Raw seafood; oysters, mussels, clams, sushi.

• Liver and all liver products; pate.

• Raw or partially cooked eggs.

• Raw or undercooked meat and poultry, cured hams such as Parma ham and salamis.

• Swordfish, marlin or shark, I would also recommend that tuna consumption is kept very low too.

• Alcohol – the Department of Health and Royal College of Obstetricians advise that pregnant women should not drink more than one to two units of alcohol once or twice per week.

• Caffeine – limit the amount of caffeine you drink each day. Caffeine affects the way your body absorbs iron which is very important for your baby’s development. High levels can result in low birth weights or even miscarriage.

Caffeine occurs naturally in foods, such as coffee, tea and chocolate. It’s also added to some soft drinks and energy drinks.

A few lifestyle tips: • Rest. I can’t recommend this enough. An exhausted body cannot function optimally, even without being pregnant. However, during pregnancy rest becomes essential in order to provide everything you need for your baby’s growth and development. It is not a treat or a luxury, more of a necessity!

• Fresh air – every day if possible. A brisk walk provides good levels of oxygen to your body and your baby’s. Good for your body, good for your heart, good for your mood = great for your baby.

• Sometimes during pregnancy, as well as providing good nutrients through the diet, it can be important to supplement with vitamins (such as folic acid), minerals and fish oils. I would recommend you gain advice from a Nutritional Practitioner for further information, as any supplementation is very personal to the individual and must be identified by a professional.

Julia Charles is a nutritional consultant at the Harrison Clinic in Arborfield. To find out more about the clinic’s range of treatments visit www. harrisonclinic.co.uk or call 0118 976 2253.

Easing your journey through childbirth...

Bump Club for mums-to-be Private Antenatal Classes Birth & Postnatal Doula Support Mums & Babes Coffee Morning Contact Karen or Lisa: info@confidentbirthing.co.uk 07810 484772 / 07747 806033 www.confidentbirthing.co.uk

Cost cutting tips for new parents at www.familiestvw.co.uk/costcutting

Thames Valley West

PAGE 17

Under Fives

Parent and Toddler Groups

Bracknell, Binfield & Warfield

55x90_multiple3:Layout 2

29/9/11

For classes of pure MADness, Birthday join MAD Academy Parties too!

Call Trish on 0118 977 0050 or trish.nawacki@madacademy.com

Earley, Woodley, Caversham, Burghfield, Purley & Arborfield

Call Gemma on 01344 305688 & 07435754712 or gemma.hinchliffe@madacademy.com Wokingham, Finchampstead, Crowthorne, Sandhurst, Bracknell, Hook, Camberley & Yateley

Call Emma on 0118 979 2695 or emma.lelliott@madacademy.com Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley & Charvil

Movement • rhythms • songs • instruments • games

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

PAGE 18

Thames Valley West

Binfield C of E Under Fives – St Mark’s Church, St Mark’s Rd, Binfield (01344 459 194) 0-5 yrs. 1st, 3rd & 5th Tues in month pm.

Coffee Break – Easthampstead Baptist Church, South Hill Rd, Easthampstead, Bracknell (01344 487 744) 0-5 yrs.

Wed am. www.ebc-bracknell.org Forest Park Toddler Group – Forest Park Community Centre, Horndean Rd, Forest Park, Bracknell (07769 275 199) 0-4 yrs. Wed & Fri am. www.forestparktoddlergroup.co.uk Jollytots – Binfield Free Church, Chapel Lane, Binfield (01344 769 245) 1 0-5 yrs. Tues am.

14:22 Page Meadowbrook Montessori School – Malt Hill, Warfield (01344 890 869). Parent and toddler activity groups. www.meadowbrookmontessori.org/motherandtoddler.html Priestwood Under Fives – Community Centre, Priestwood Court Rd, Priestwood (01344 455 306) 0-5 yrs. Tues & Wed am, Thurs pm (Thurs am on last Thurs in month).

Rowans Revellers Toddler Group – Rowans Children’s Centre, Pondmoor Rd, Bracknell (01344 312 800) Tues am. childrens-centre@bracknell-forest.gov.uk St Michael’s Toddler Group – St Michael’s Parish Centre, Crowthorne Rd, Easthampstead, Bracknell (01344 422 784) 0-5 yrs. Thurs am.

Small Time – St Paul’s Church, Lowbury, Harmanswater, Bracknell (01344 304 626) 0-4 yrs. Thurs am. www.stpaulsbracknell.org.uk Sparklers – The Kerith Centre, The Bracknell Family Church, Church Rd, Bracknell (01344 862 699) 0-5 yrs.

Mon pm, Tues & Wed am. www.kerith.co.uk, sparklers@kerith.co.uk Sunshine – St Michaels Church, Church Lane, Warfield (01344 886 900) 0-4 yrs. Thurs am.

Tinys & Tots – Bullbrook Community Centre, Bullbrook Row, Bracknell (01344 886 900) 0-4 yrs. Fri am.

Toddle Tots – Crown Wood Community Centre, Opladen Way, Bracknell (07944 629 947) 0-5 yrs. Tues am.

Caversham & Sonning Common Caversham Hill Toddler Group – 119 Peppard Rd, Caversham (0118 947 4529) 0-3 yrs. Tues & Fri am.

ESCAPE Parent and Toddler Group – Mapledurham Pavillion, 129 Upper Woodcote Rd, Caversham 0-4 yrs.

Mon & Thurs am. www.escapetoddlers.co.uk, info@escapetoddlers.co.uk Fun 2 Play – Caversham Children’s Centre, 114 Amersham Rd, Caversham (0118 937 5429) 0-5 yrs Tues am. 0-18mths Thurs pm. Plus lots of other groups and activities e.g. bumps & babes. www.cavershamchildrenscentre.co.uk Sonning Common Toddler Group – Sonning Common Children’s Centre, based at Chiltern Edge school (0118 972 4024) 0-5yrs. Wed am. sue@nomadhenley.co.uk Time 4 U – Caversham Baptist Church, South Street, Caversham, RG4 8HY, (0118 954 5353) 0-5yrs. Wed am. www.cavershambaptistchurch.org.uk

F&F Childrenswear

A great way to meet other local families, parent and toddler groups offer low-cost entertainment for you and your little one. They can have fun, learn to make friends and try new toys whilst you enjoy some adult company.

We’ve listed as many groups as we could find below.

Twyford, Henley & Wargrave The Caterpillar Toddler Group – Village Hall, Park Lane, Charvil (07748 300 897) 0-5 yrs. Wed am.

Harpsden Hoppers – Harpsden Village Hall, Harpsden, RG9 4HH (0118 972 2905) 18mths-4 yrs. Fri am.

Mother & Toddler Group – Orchard Farm Day Nursery, Fairmile, Henley, RG9 6AG (01491 577 716) 0-3 yrs. Mon 1.30-3pm. £2.50 to cover refreshments. Call Kym or Hannah to book.

Noah’s Ark – United Reformed Church, Church St, Twyford (0118 934 4792) 0-5 yrs. Tues am.

Teddy Praise – St Mary’s, Station Rd, Twyford (0118 934 4792) 0-5 yrs. 2nd & 4th Wed in month.

Twyford Twins Plus – St Mary’s Church Centre, Twyford (0118 934 4792) 0-5 yrs. Mon am (runs throughout the year, except bank holidays) www.twinsplusreading.com Wargrave Baby and Toddler Group – Woodclyffe Hall, Wargrave High St (0118 940 2786) 0-3½ yrs. Tues am.

Central Reading and Coley Active Play (Soft Play) – Coley Park Community Centre, 140 Wensley Rd, Coley (0118 901 5662) 0-5 yrs. Tues am.

Bubble Club – 21 Alexandra Rd, Reading (0118 966 2518). 0-5 yrs for children with special needs and siblings.

Thurs am. Run by Reading MENCAP. Tumble Teds – Coley Park Community Centre, 140 Wensley Rd, Coley (0118 901 5662) 0-5 yrs. Thurs am.

Crescent Under Fives – The Gingerbread House, Alfred Sutton Primary School, Wokingham Rd, Reading (0118 901 0012) Mon pm.

Friendly Faces – All Saints Church Hall, Downshire Square, Bath Rd/Tilehurst Rd, Reading (07884 072 574) 0-5yrs. Wed am.

Greyfriars Toddler Group – Greyfriars Church, Friar St, Reading (0118 951 6700) Tues am & Tues pm. Contact Penny Cuthbert pennymadfriar@btinternet.com www.greyfriars.org.uk Hexham Toddlers – Hexham Rd Community Centre, Reading (0118 901 5777) 0-5 yrs. Thurs am. www.surestartwhitley.co.uk Little Fishes – Coley Park Baptist Church, Wensley Rd, Coley Park (0118 958 9911) 0-5 yrs. Mon am. www.coleychurch.org.uk/new/new.html New Hope Toddler Group – New Hope Community Church, 95 York Rd, Reading (0118 959 6534) 0-5 yrs.

Wed am. www.newhopeweb.org.uk Pakistan Community Centre Mother and Toddler Group – The Pakistan Community Centre, Park Hall, London Rd, Reading (0118 926 9031) 0-4 yrs. Wed am.

Playgroup Italiano – The Playcafé in Palmer Park, Reading. 0-5 yrs. Saturdays, 10.30. Activities include storytelling, singing, games and crafts, all through Italian. Free, all welcome. www.playgroupitalianoreading.weebly.com or facebook page playgroup Italiano.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Under Fives Baby K at Mothercare

Riverside Toddlers – The Riverside Community Centre, Rosemoor Gardens (off Curling Way), Newbury (07971 857 191) 0-5 yrs. Wed am.

St Mary’s Adults, Babies and Children’s Group – St Mary’s Church, Church Gate, Thatcham (01635 862 277) 0-5 yrs. Wed am.

South Thatcham Children’s Centre – Various Stay & Play sessions at South Thatcham Children’s Centre, Lower Way, Thatcham (01635 877 642). www.westberks.gov.uk Sulhampstead Baby and Toddler Group – Sulhampstead Village Hall, Sulhampstead Hill (Jacky, 07711 645 566). Fri am, gated baby section.

Thatcham URC Baby & Toddler Group – Old British School, Church Lane, Thatcham (01635 872 925). 0-4 yrs.

Fri am.

Reading and District Twins Club – Katesgrove Children’s Centre/Waterloo Meadow Children’s Centre, Elgar Rd, Reading (0118 975 0819). Fri am. www.twinsplusreading.com Stay & Play – Coley Park Children’s Centre (0118 939 4859) 0-5 yrs. Wed pm & Thurs am.

Tadpoles Club – The Dingley Centre, Kennet Walk Community Centre, Kenavon Drive, Reading RG1 3GD (0118 327 7424 / 0118 966 2518) 0-5 yrs children with disabilities and siblings, with play workers and family workers. Wed 1pm–2.30pm. Joint venture between the Dingley Centre and Reading MENCAP. Tots on Tuesday – Katesgrove Children’s Centre, Elgar Rd, Reading (0118 975 0819) 0-5 yrs. Tues pm. www.eastreadingchildrenscentres.co.uk/katesgrove.html Tots to Toddlers (Coley) – All Nations Christian Centre, Berkeley Ave, RG1 6JE (0118 950 5661) 0-4yrs. Tues & Wed 9.45-11-15am.

Wednesday Toddlers – Katesgrove Children’s Centre, Elgar Rd, Reading (0118 975 0819) 0-4yrs Wed am.

South Reading & villages south of Reading California Childminders & Toddlers Group – California Ratepayers Hall, Finchampstead (0118 979 5039) 0-4 yrs.

Tues am.

Fledglings Baby and Toddler Group – St James Church Centre, Church Lane, Finchampstead (0118 973 0133) 0-4yrs. Tues pm.

Heathend Mother and Toddler Group – Heathend Village Hall, Tadley (0118 982 0227) 0-5yrs. Tues am.

Messy Play – South Reading Youth & Community Centre, 252-260 Northumberland Avenue, Reading (0118 901 5777) 0-5 yrs. Mon am. Also many Stay & Play sessions, Story Times etc. check the website for timetable. www.surestartwhitley.co.uk/pdfs/Timetable.pdf Mortimer Baby & Toddler Group – The Pavillion/ Community Centre, Mortimer (07811 442 049) 0-3 yrs.

Tues am.

Spencers Wood Toddler Group – Spencers Wood Village Hall, Basingstoke Rd, Spencers Wood (07990 502 876) 0-5 yrs. Mon & Thurs am.

Swallowfield Mother and Toddler Group – Swallowfield Parish Hall, Swallowfield (0777 555 8381) 0-5 yrs. Fri am.

Tiddlers and Gigglers – Whitley Health & Social Services Centre, 268 Northumberland Avenue, Reading (0118 901 5777) 0-2 yrs. Wed pm.

Tilehurst and Purley Cornwell 0-5 Toddlers – The Cornwell Centre, Home Croft, Tilehurst (07979 650 577) 0-5yrs.Tues & Thurs 10am-1pm (drop in anytime, can bring lunch). www.cornwell0-5s.com Glowworms Parent and Toddler Group – Norcot Mission Church, Brockley Close, Tilehurst (0118 943 1071) 0-4 yrs.

Thurs am, term-time only.

Newbery LodgeParent and Toddlers – 51 Armour Hill, Tilehurst (0118 942 3644) 0-3 yrs. Tues & Thurs pm. newberylodgepreschool@gmail.com Purley Tots – St Mary’s Church, St Mary’s Ave, Purley on Thames (as per church calendar). 0-3 yrs. Tues & Wed am.

Rainbow Club (Tilehurst) – Reading Community Church, Meadway, Tilehurst (0118 941 5557) 0-4 yrs. Fri am.

Tigger Toddlers – YMCA, 34 Parkside Rd, Reading (0118 941 1495) 0-5 yrs. Wed am.

Tots at TMC – Tilehurst Methodist Church, School Road,

Wokingham, Woodley, Winnersh & Earley Tilehurst, RG31 5AN (0118 942 7128) 0-2 yrs, Mon am.

0-5 yrs, Tues-Fri am. Contact Sheila Moffoot moffoot@talk21.com Victoria Road Parent and Toddlers – 17 Victoria Rd, Tilehurst (07989 261 637) 0-5yrs. Fri am. victoria.road@live.co.uk

West Berkshire Basildon Baby and Toddler Group – Upper Basildon Village Hall, Bethesda St, Upper Basildon (01491 671521) 0-4 yrs. Tues am.

Bucklebury Toddler Group – The Memorial Hall, Upper Bucklebury (01635 866 559) 0-4 yrs. Fri am.

Burdwood Baby and Toddler Group – Burdwood Community Centre, Station Rd, Thatcham (01635 868 368) 0-5yrs. Tues am.

Buttercups Toddler Group – The Frank Hutchins Community Centre, Bradley Moore Square, Thatcham (01635 864 113) 0-4 yrs. Mon & Fri am. www.buttercupsplaygroup.co.uk East Downlands Children’s Centre – co-located with Pangbourne Primary school, (0118 984 5105) Stay and Play sessions for 0-5 yrs, Mon & Fri am.

Childminder drop in sessions, Thurs am.

Contact childrenscentres@westberks.gov.uk Goring Mother and Baby Group – Goring Free Church Hall, High St, Goring (01491 875 693) 0- walking. Fri am.

Goring Toddler Group – Goring Free Church Hall, High St, Goring (01491 875 693) walking to around 2-3yrs. Tues am. www.goringfreechurch.org.uk/Activities.html Goring Busy Bees – Goring Free Church Hall, High St, Goring (01491 875 693) 2-3 yrs to preschool. Mon am with activities, crafts, singing.

Little Teddies, Theale – Theale Village Hall, Englefield Rd, Theale (Teresa 0118 930 2766/ Sue 930 2719) (07546 575 815, mornings only) 0-5yrs. 2nd & 4th Thurs in month, 1.30pm-3pm. www.thealeunder5s.co.uk North Thatcham Children’s Centre – Various Stay & Play sessions at North Thatcham Children’s Centre, Park Lane, Thatcham (01635 865 318). www.westberks.gov.uk Pangbourne Baby and Toddler Group – Pangbourne Village Hall, Station Rd, Pangbourne 0-5 yrs. Mon am.

Rainbows Baby & Toddler Group – Kennet Christian Centre, Enborne Rd, Newbury 0-5 yrs. Open every weekday, 9.30am-11.30am.

Activities for under fives at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes

4321 Club – Wokingham Baptist Church, Milton Road, Wokingham (0118 978 7174) 0-4 yrs. Tues am. www.wokinghambaptist.org.uk Busy Bees – Brookside Church, Brookside Close, Earley (0118 966 4474) 0-4 yrs. Wed am. www.brooksidechurch.org.uk Come and Play Parent and Toddler Group – The Ambleside Centre, Ambleside Close, Woodley (0118 377 6444) 0-5 yrs. Tues am.

Maiden Erleigh Parent & Toddler Group – Silverdale Centre, Silverdale Rd, Earley. Contact Natalie on 07789 364786. 0-5 yrs. Tues, Wed & Thurs 9.30-11.30am.

Prayers and Bears Adults and Toddler Group – St Pauls Parish Rooms, Reading Rd, Wokingham (0118 979 2122) 0-5 yrs. Fri pm.

Rose Street Toddler Group – Methodist Church, Rose St, Wokingham (0118 978 5630) 0-3 yrs. Thurs am.

St John’s Parent and Toddler Group – St John’s Church Centre, Church Rd, Woodley (0118 969 5128) 0-4 yrs. Tues am.

Salvation Army Parent & Toddlers – Salvation Army Centre, Sturges Rd, Wokingham (0118 989 4055) 0-5 yrs.

Mon & Fri am.

Southlake Toddlers – Emmanuel Church, Southlake Crescent, Woodley (0118 967 2740) 0-5yrs. Tues am.

Sunbeams – Wokingham Baptist Church, Milton Road, Wokingham (0118 978 7174) 0-4 yrs. Mon pm. www.wokinghambaptist.org.uk Tiddlywinks – St Mary’s Church, Winnersh (07870 586 409). Fri 9.30am-11am.

Tiny Tots (Woodley) – St John’s Church Centre, Church Rd, Woodley (0118 921 0832). 0-5 yrs. Thurs am.

Wokingham Toddler Group – Wokingham Youth & Community Centre, Reading Rd, Wokingham, RG41 1EG (0118 978 3610/0118 908 8492) 0-3yrs. Weds am.

Woodley Baptist Church Toddler Group – Woodley Baptist Church Centre, Hurricane Way, Woodley (0118 969 9956) 0-5 yrs. Tues am.

Woodlands Toddler Group – Woosehill Community Centre, behind Morrisons, Woosehill (0118 989 0819) 0-4 yrs. Tues am.

You can also find this listing online at www.familiestvw.co.uk/toddlergroups If you would like details of your group added or amended please email the details to editor@familiestvw.co.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 19

Clubs & Classes

What’s New Half price offer New Kiddikicks from Jo Jingles and Ligasoccer Windsor classes on Sundays This term Jo Jingles franchisee Andreas Alkiviades is offering 50% off baby classes for children aged 3 to 6 months. Classes run in Maidenhead, Henley, Twyford, Windsor and Burnham and offer children a fun music and movement experience with an educational slant. Please call Andreas on 07590 434 016 or email jojingleswam@btinternet.com to find out more. Terms and conditions apply.

Kiddikicks’ fun football classes help pre-schoolers develop co-ordination, strength and agility whilst letting off steam and burning off that extra energy. Older children can move on to Ligasoccer which introduces small-sided match play and helps increase their skills.

Classes are now being held at Jennets Park Community Centre in Bracknell on Sunday mornings. To find out more or to book visit www.kiddikicks.co.uk, call 020 7937 7965 or email sarah@kiddikicks.co.uk

Theatrebugs Fancy some dramatics? Then a Theatrebugs under 5s Drama Class is in order! Their Little Bugs will be going for a splash in the pond, helping Timmy Tadpole turn into a frog and Mummy Duck find a friend. A splashtastic time will be had by all - meeting puppet friends, acting their little socks off and having lots of fun - while you watch their confidence bloom!

Classes are now running at Jennetts Park in Bracknell.

And why not leave your child’s birthday party to Theatrebugs? They offer a full range of exciting and imaginative party packages for 2-6 year olds. A Theatrebugs party is an interactive fun filled journey crammed with tasks to be completed, characters to become and different worlds to explore. Prices start from £98.

Call Anita on 07779 628 869, email anitagaskell@theatrebugs.co.uk, visit www.theatrebugs.co.uk or Facebook AnitaTheatrebugs H

Families discount - 25% off parties when booked by 30th March

New MAD Academy classes The MAD Academy run music and dance/ movement classes for children aged from 3 months to 4 years. Classes are high energy, fun and free spirited and include dancing, musical instruments, props like ribbons, balls and parachutes, rhythms and lots of music and dance. Brand new classes have just started at the Warehouse, 1a Cumberland Road, Reading, RG1 3LB every Tuesday morning during term time.

Emma Lelliott, who runs classes across Henley, Maidenhead and Charvil, recently

received an award for her consistently high standard of class presentation and customer care at MAD’s annual conference. Due to demand Emma will also be launching a new set of classes at the Magnet Centre, Maidenhead on Friday mornings.

Phone Trish for Reading classes on 0118 977 0050 or Emma on 0118 979 2695 to book your place or visit www.madacademy.com for details of other classes which run six days a week throughout the area.

Roll up! Roll up!

Perform drama, dance and singing workshops anounce their most colourful and lively theme yet, The Circus! All 4-8 year olds are invited to enter the Big Top this term and discover the delights of the circus. Build confidence with the dashing Lion Tamer, develop hand-to-eye co-ordination with the Duelling Jugglers or discover the magic of mime with the Clown with a Frown. Why not try out the classes by attending a Free Trial Session. Classes run on Fridays in Crowthorne and Camberley and Saturdays in Reading, Henley and Wokingham. Wokingham also has Perform Plus classes on Fridays with a Hercules theme for 8-12 year olds.

Call 0845 400 1283 or visit www.perform.org.uk to discover more.

PAGE 20

Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

New Year, New You

Make it a Happy New Year!

January is traditionally a time of change with the New Year heralding an opportunity to start afresh and leave your problems behind. If you need a little help with this then take a look at the next few pages. We’ve spoken to a few experts who may be able to offer assistance – with financial and health-related problems or with banishing that bad habit or unwanted behaviour for good.

Brightwell Clinic – keeping the body in motion Feet take over 3.5 million steps a year so it’s not surprising that experts recommend visiting a podiatrist at least once a year. This New Year why not make sure that your feet are in tip-top condition by visiting Brightwell Clinic, handily located in central Reading. Here, the multi-disciplinary team will diagnose and treat all types of foot related problems in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

When we walk, run or play sport, sometimes things can start to go wrong with how our feet function. This can place excessive stress and strain not only on our feet but also on other parts of our body, resulting in pain or injury in the foot,

ankle, knee, hip or even the back. Brightwell Clinic specialises in biomechanics and gait analysis. By using sophisticated equipment to assess the way your feet and body move Brightwell’s clinicians can determine if the way you walk or run is causing your problem or injury. Common problems requiring gait analysis include sports and running injuries, Achilles tendon problems, Plantar fasciitis and muscle and joint pain.

The podiatrists at Brightwell Clinic also have a particular interest in children’s foot health. If your child has symptoms such as pain, cramps, wanting to sit rather than run and play, or asks to

be picked up a lot when outside, then consider a consultation.

Early diagnosis is essential and many paediatric foot deformities can be treated before they progress into adult foot complications.

To find out what Brightwell Clinic can offer your family, visit www.brightwellclinic.co.uk or call 0118 958 7151.

The True Cost of Christmas?

Recent economic troubles have hit us hard with almost everyone feeling the squeeze caused by high unemployment, pay cuts and the rising cost of fuel and food.

To cover the cost of Christmas more people than ever are turning to plastic or short term borrowing.

So what is the true cost of this type of debt and how long will you be paying for it? Take the example of a credit card debt of £10,000. Many people simply pay the minimum balance but by doing so it’s going to take 22 years to become debt free and you will end up

paying back £28,560. The truth is your creditors don’t want you to pay back that money – they want to be able to charge you more interest.

Reading-based company Settle-My-Debt offers a debt counselling and settlement service for those struggling with their finances. They are currently offering every reader a Free Financial Heath check.

So if you are worried about your finances just call 01344 862 630 quoting the reference FAMILIES. To find out more about Settle-My-Debt visit their website at www.settle-my-debt.co.uk

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

NO monthly fees The Avg Customer pays back 50% of their debt For a FREE financial health check call now on

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

Worried about the cost of Christmas?

01344 862630 Contact our trained advisors, or go on-line & request a call back. Regulated by the Office of Fair Trading

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 Need an New Year energy boost www.familiestvw.co.uk/energyboost

Thames Valley West

PAGE 21

New Year, New You mums in business...

Clinic At Brightwell Clinic we treat all types of foot problems including: • Sports Overuse Injuries • Foot Pain • Leg/Knee/hip and low back Pain • Corns

PODIATRY

Susan Sandall and Naomi Green Registered HPC Professionals

www.brightwellclinic.co.uk

• Verrucae • Ingrowing Toe nails • Concerns regarding a childs foot or gait development

Telephone 0118 958 7151 A happy relaxed place to bring your child for treatment 40 Queens Road, Reading RG1 4AU

Let Hypnotherapy Help You This Time If you want to stick to your New Years’ Resolutions then make an appointment with Louise Carter DHP MAPHP Stop Smoking Weight Issues Confidence Stress and anxiety Habits Fear/Phobias Children’s issues helped too.

Make 2012 your Best Year Yet! Free Initial Consultation Thames Valley Clinic, Caversham and The Rosedale Clinic, Central Reading

0118 9471749 / 07903807510 www.positivethinkinghynotherapy.co.uk

Helping others to achieve their goals Julie Hoather is a personal development coach, a career that has evolved directly from her life long interest in psychology. After taking a Psychology degree and teaching the subject for over 10 years, she had reached a point where she felt she was giving more and more to her job for less recognition. Like so many of us, she also wanted the flexibility of working around her two young children, now aged 6 & 9, at home and during the hours that suited her family.

She decided to test the water with a diploma course in NLP and was so impressed by the real changes in herself and those around her that she decided to qualify as an NLP practitioner and set up her own business.

Julie told us: “I wanted to really inspire my children by seeing their Mum fulfilled through taking a chance at something really challenging; changing my future and helping others to do the same.

“The best thing about coaching is being able to watch people change and grow before you. Facilitating their personal growth by giving them the tools to develop is a real buzz. There is nothing quite like watching somebody arrive with little or no self-confidence and then them leaving with a spring in their step, ready to take on their challenges.”

Using coaching and NLP techniques, Julie takes people on a gentle walk through personal development. “NLP is a way of re-training your brain and revealing the inner beliefs that can hold us back; what I call “stinkin’ thinkin’”, she told us. “Once we have identified the problem thinking or bad experiences from the past, we work on strategies to move forward. The end result is more confident and self-assured individuals.”

To find out more about Julie’s business, JH Coaching, visit www.jh-coaching.co.uk or email jules@jh-coaching.co.uk

SUNRISE HYPNOTHERAPY Gentle help you need

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 07810 716 050

Julie with her children

www.sunrisehypnotherapy.co.uk fionaagrant@bluebottle.com

Call today to arrange a free initial consultation.

Revolutionary Route to your Ideal Weight Try Clean 9 & Nutri-Lean

The path to a cleaner and healthier you.

Clean 9 is a 9-day nutritional cleansing programme designed to cleanse your body of toxins and unnatural chemicals,then follow with Nutri-lean to help you achieve and maintain your ideal weight.

To find out more please contact Paola on 0118 907 6357

PAGE 22

Thames Valley West

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



JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

New Year, New You

Make 2012 Your Best Year Yet! New Year’s resolutions! We all make them with the best of intentions but most of us soon lapse back into our bad old habits.

However it doesn’t have to be this way and, if you really want to succeed this year, Louise Carter may be able to help.

Louise is a professional hypnotherapist who runs clinics from both Thames Valley Clinic in Caversham and The Rosedale Clinic in Central Reading. She has helped hundreds of people to improve their lives. Some have quit smoking or tackled their weight issues, others have overcome fears, phobias and anxieties and still more have improved their confidence or reduced their stress levels. Louise also works with children. Over the years she has helped with exam nerves, bed wetting, fears of the dark and of death, terror of dentists and needles, separation anxiety and many other problems.

Resolutions are often doomed to fail because, although you may try hard to change, they are made with the conscious mind. The actual problem, that unwanted habit or fear, is stored in the, much stronger, subconscious part of the mind. This will eventually re-assert itself and the unwanted behaviour will return. Hypnotherapy sessions use hypnosis, a state of relaxed concentration, to enable you to access your subconscious mind and replace the unwanted behaviour with new information on how you want to be.

You are always fully aware and in control at all times.

Louise offers a free Initial Consultation to allow you to talk with her about the areas in you or your child’s life that you are trying to change and to allow you to find out more about hypnosis and hypnotherapy. If you would like to make an appointment then call her on 0118 947 1749 or visit www.positivethinkinghypnotherapy.com

Hypnosis - Dispelling the Myths There are many absurd myths and beliefs about hypnosis. Here Fiona Grant dispels a few of them.

All hypnosis is perfectly safe, you cannot do any harm to yourself or anybody else and you cannot get ‘stuck’ in any way!

During hypnosis you do not become in any way unconscious or semi-conscious. You cannot, at any time, be made to do things you do not want to do and you are totally aware of yourself and your surroundings at all times. When hypnotised you are not in anybody’s power and nobody can take control of you, in fact, you can leave the hypnotic state whenever you decide to. In hypnosis you do not go to sleep or leave your body, you cannot ‘lose your mind’ or become ‘possessed’.

You do not say or do ‘funny things’

unless you choose to and you will not suddenly ‘blurt out’ your dark secrets.

There is no such thing as a ‘hypnotised feeling’ nor is there a ‘gift of hypnosis’ as anyone can learn it. Hypnosis is actually a truly natural state of mind and body. No hypnotherapist is able to persuade anybody to do anything that they would not already have done (although they may never have admitted that they wanted to do it).

It is not possible to override or reduce the conscious will so you cannot be ‘stopped in your tracks’ or rendered suddenly immobile.

Many clients arrive with the idea that whatever the stage hypnotist does must be different. In fact, there is no

Fiona Grant

special variety of hypnosis for the stage entertainer just an endless supply of willing, genuine participants who actually want to go along with whatever

the hypnotist asks of them (plants or stooges are hardly ever used).

Fiona Grant has been practising as a Clinical Hypnotherapist in Caversham for the past four years. She helps people from all walks of life to stop smoking and control their weight, as well as addressing anxiety related problems such as phobias, panic attacks and exam nerves. Fiona particularly enjoys working with children and has helped many children to overcome a large variety of anxieties and banish assorted bad habits. If you would like to book a free Initial Consultation to discuss how hypnotherapy could help you or your child please call Fiona on 07810 716 050 or visit www.sunrisehypnotherapy.co.uk

Need an New Year energy boost www.familiestvw.co.uk/energyboost

Thames Valley West

PAGE 23

Holidays

All aboard for Summer 2012

It’s the depths of winter, so every family’s thoughts naturally turn to where they will be this summer.

Joanna Moorhead has lots of ideas.

The Alps in August Switzerland isn’t just for skiing: in fact, the Alps can be one of the loveliest places in Europe for a summer holiday en famille. As well as beautiful weather, there’s a wealth of sporty things to do for both smaller children and teenagers. Chilly Powder runs its Morzine chalet hotel through the summer as well as the winter, offering the same attractions (professionally-cooked food, childcare etc) and with the emphasis on comfortable living alongside a wealth of

Affordable luxury – and abroad too Glamping is the way to go: much more reasonable prices than villas or hotels, and a wide range of familyfriendly sites. And what’s new on the glamping block for 2012 is an ever-widening range of top-notch accommodation: for 2012, Select Camp has a new range of what it’s calling its ‘lodge suites’ featuring a canopy bed, free-standing oval bath, fully-equipped kitchen, shower and toilet – and a separate junior lodge tent next to the main suite. Select Camp also has four new sites, three in Italy and one in Spain – and coming soon, a brand new website which should make browsing and booking a lot easier too.

Perfect for: Budget-conscious, adventurous families Midsummer prices: from around £24 per person, per night Website: www.selectcamp.co.uk

outdoor pursuits. Morzine is an eight-hour drive from Calais, or fly to Geneva and hire a car; the chalet has 17 bedrooms and there’s even a hot tub in the garden.

Perfect for: sporty families with children in different age ranges Midsummer prices: from around £120 per adult per night, discount for children, half-board Website: www.chillypowder.com

Pamper yourself in Devon The word ‘barton’ means ‘a small country estate’ in Devon, so head for Libbear Barton and what you’ll be buying is a slice of laid-back country high life, half an hour from the nearest beach. Libbear Barton is a 40-acre farm with four properties: the Georgian farmhouse (sleeping up to 14) and three cottages. Rent one if you’re holidaying with your immediate family, or rent two or even all of them if you’re bringing along your extended clan or another family or families (the maximum number of guests, if you take all the properties, is 39).

The whole place is kitted out with under-fives in mind, so you won’t need to worry about cramming the car with clobber – even buggies are provided. You won’t need to leave the farm every day, because there’s plenty to do there – an adventure playground, indoor swimming pool, woodland and meadows, a fishing lake, games room and loads and loads of play space. For those days when you do want to venture out, north Devon is teeming with family-friendly things to do, and the beautiful beach at Bude is only 15 miles away.

Perfect for: groups of families holidaying together Midsummer prices: from £36 per person per night, based on full occupancy in July/August More details: www.familyfriendlydevon.co.uk

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 www.jubileejets.co.uk

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

PAGE 24

Thames Valley West

• Feeding lambs • Biking in the woods • Cooking • Circus workshops • Henna tattoos • Trampolining • Games and races • Quad bikes • Or just hangin out with friends School Holiday Fun! Ofsted registered

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Holidays Family fun at Bluestone – whatever the weather Bluestone National Park Resort in West Wales is helping more and more generational families spend quality time together. This allweather five star short break destination is set in the spectacular Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and provides a tranquil and relaxing environment combined with adrenalin pumping fun and activities suited to all ages and abilities.

Bluestone is a great place to get the family away together for a break or special occasion.

Guests can choose from a wide variety of activities for all ages: Steep Ravine and its high ropes and tree climbing adventures, woodland walks, kayaking, bushcraft skills and much more. Then there’s the Adventure Centre with its wide range of indoor activities for the youngsters. From the Blue Lagoon water park to the relaxing Well Spa and thermal rooms, there literally is something for everyone within the family.

BOOK BY MARCH 1ST 2012 FOR OUR BIGGEST SAVINGS. BI8E ƄŽ B9FG87 E8:<FG8E87 I8AH8F J<G; 6E5 6?84E87 FG499 J<G; ƁŽ 46G<I<G<8F FCBEGF 4EGF 6E49G BC8A ƅ4@ ƃC@ @BA 9E<! J8 4?FB 4668CG 6;<?764E8 IBH6;8EF 4F C4L@8AG!

Perfect for: families who want to share time (but not activities) together Spring breaks prices: from £40 per person per night, based on 8 people sharing.

More details: www.bluestonewales.com or call 01834 862400 for more information.

Away from the crowds in Norfolk If you love Cornwall and Devon, but are frustrated by the prices and the crowds, why not head instead for Norfolk? Cottage prices for midsummer are cheaper and it’s much easier to get to and from the beaches and other attractions because the roads are far less clogged. For a comfortable, child-friendly cottage look on the Recommended Family Holidays website under the ‘East of England’ tab. Poppyland Cottages, for example, have a range of properties (see right) dotted around a series of beautiful villages, and within easy reach of lovely Blue Flag beaches – and everything on the website has been checked for familyfriendliness. Great pubs for lunches and suppers out, too – and Norfolk is also a very good option for families who love cycling.

Perfect for: Families with young children wanting to get away from the crowds Midsummer prices: from around £21 per person, per night Website: www.recommendedfamilyholidays.com

RecommendedFamilyHotels.com has just launched… ... featuring luxury, family friendly worldwide hotels, all recommended by other mums and dads. Put together your perfect family holiday to the Caribbean, Indian Ocean, Middle East or Europe including flights, transfers, room, board and kids clubs. And, if you fancy going skiing with the family, staying in a chalet, apartment or hotel, why not try out RecommendedFamilySkiing.com

Lots more holiday ideas at www.families.tvw.co.uk/holidays

Thames Valley West

PAGE 25

What’s On

Compiled by Claire Frew

Diary Dates

Nigel Blake/RSPB Images

provided). Buyers 50p each. Scout fundraiser for a new minibus.

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

28 January - BIG PARK BIRDWATCH at Lily Hill Park, Lily Hill Road, Bracknell, 01344 354441 To support the National Big Garden Birdwatch, join staff and volunteers from the Wokingham and Bracknell RSPB group to discover the birds of Lily Hill Park. Learn how to record the birds in your garden for this important survey and make a simple bird feeder. Best suited 5+yrs.

10am-12noon. £2 donation to the RSPB.

January Every Friday during term time – TODDLER TIME at The Musuem of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl Rhymes, songs or craft activities based on objects in the museum collection or garden. 10am-11am and 1pm-2pm. For families with children 2-4yrs. £2, drop in.

29 January – RSPB BIG GARDEN BIRDWATCH at The River and Rowing Museum, Henley on Thames, 01491 415 605, www.rrm.co.uk Family fun day including lots of wildliferelated activities and crafts. Make your own bird feeder and nest box to take home. Free with museum admission, drop in, 10am-4pm.

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

7-8 January – PLANETS AND STARS IN THE PORTABLE STAR LAB at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell, 01344 354 400, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lookout This family show is in the centre’s own planetarium, and takes viewers on a trip through the solar system, telling stories about stars and identifying famous constellations. Ages 5+. Costs £1.85 in addition to normal entrance fee. Shows at 11am, 12noon, 2pm & 3.15pm, subject to minimum numbers.

14 January and 11 February – JUNIOR RANGERS at Dinton Pastures, Hurst Monthly club for children aged 8-12 who are interested in outdoor activities and nature. Activities include canoeing, climbing and wildlife trails. 10am-12noon, £5 a session. Booking essential on 0118 934 2016, countryside@wokingham.gov.uk 14 January – RECYCLED ARTS WORKSHOP: MEXICAN EYES at Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Find out how to make art out of rubbish!

Workshops for all the family, no need to book, £1, drop in between 11am-3.30pm.

17 January – TRADITIONAL ORCHARD WASSAIL at Lily Hill Park, Bracknell, RG12 2RX, 01344 354 000, www.bracknell.gov.uk/parks Enjoy a simple revival of the old English custom of wassailing to celebrate and protect fruit trees and ensure a good harvest.

February 4 February – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Nuffield Fitness Centre, Newbury Racecourse, www. babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk 2-4pm. 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.

Join the Big Garden Birdwatch, various venues 5.30-6.30pm. Suitable for all with Morris dancers and a little tipple or two. Meet at main car park and bring cider or apple juice.

Weekends and school holidays from 21 January – THE BIG DINOSAUR SHOW at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell, 01344 354 400, www. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/lookout Help the herd of Stegosaurus to survive a number of dangerous challenges. Find out what the breath of a T Rex would have smelt like and how much poo the biggest dinosaurs would have made! How do we know that the T-Rex has the best sense of smell out of all the meat eating dinosaurs?

Ages 4+. Costs £1.85 in addition to normal entrance fee. Shows at 11am, 12noon, 2pm & 3.15pm, subject to minimum numbers.

H Turn to page 29 for 10% off voucher

21 January-22 April – FIELD WORK: PHOTOGRAPHS OF EAST ANGLIA at Museum of English Rural Life, University of Reading, Redlands Road, Reading, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl Justin Partyka has been photographing rural East Anglia for over a decade, exploring the diverse lives of rabbit catchers, reed cutters, and small-scale farmers. Be inspired by this photographic exhibition to explore the world of cameras and film, ways of seeing, and colour during MERL’s half term events.

21 January – CAR BOOT SALE at 79th Reading Scout Hall, Armour Hill, Tilehurst, Reading 11am-1pm. Sellers from 10am. Indoor stalls can be pre-booked by calling Kate on 07846 833 681. £9 per table (table

5 February - BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Spencers Wood Village Hall, Basingstoke Road, Spencers Wood, Reading RG7 1AP 10am-12noon. See 4 Feb entry for details.

6 February onwards – BASILDON PARK GARDENS RE-OPEN AND HALF TERM ACTIVITIES, Lower Basildon, RG8 9NR, 0118 984 3040, www.nationaltrust.org.uk Grounds, shop and tea room open 10am–4pm daily. House closed until 10 March. During half-term children can explore the Valentine trail around the garden and get a reward. The trail is an additional £2. On Valentine’s Day children can get stuck into making ‘love bugs’ in the craft activity room.

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

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

PAGE 26

Thames Valley West

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

What’s On 11 February – BEALE PARK RE-OPENS at Beale Park, near Pangbourne, 0844 826 1761, www.bealepark.co.uk Animals, play areas, miniature railway, café and more. 10am-5pm.

11 February – WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK RE-OPENS at Wellington Country Park, Riseley, 0118 932 6444, www.wellington-country-park.co.uk Lots of play areas for all ages, miniature railway, crazy golf, nature trails, café and more. 9.30am-4.30pm.

11-19 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 11-12 and 14-19 Feb Ways of seeing bags - Be inspired by MERL’s photographic exhibition to explore different ways of seeing with activity bags using magnifying glasses, telescopes, kaleidoscopes and colours! Drop in, returnable deposit, 6+yrs; 14 Feb Optical Toys: Zoetrope - In this workshop you will draw, cut and stick to make your own zoetrope or ‘moving picture’ toy. Drop in between 10am-12noon & 1-4pm, £3, families with children 7+yrs; 16 Feb Optical Toys: Thaumatrope - Create a thaumatrope, a popular optical toy of the nineteenth century. Create half pictures on each side of a piece of card, attach strings and spin the card. Hey presto! The whole image will be seen. Drop in between 10am-12noon & 1-4pm, £2, families with children 6+yrs; 17 Feb Super ‘Stained glass’ sun catchers - Cut, tear, overlap and stick coloured tissue onto a frame to make your own ‘stained glass’ sun catcher. Drop in between 10am-12noon & 1-3pm, £2, families with children 2+yrs.

11-19 February – HALF TERM WORKSHOPS & EVENTS at Eddie Catz, Northway House, York Rd, Newbury, RG14 7NF, 0845 201 1628, www.eddiecatz.com If the giant playframe, sports pitch and disco are not enough to tempt you for a play at Eddie Catz, why not sign the kids up for one of the half term events or workshops for 6-11 year olds. Or why not take out membership which allows unlimited play over the holidays? Visit their website for details and bookings and keep up to date with news on their Facebook page.

For February half term – BUCKLEBURY FARM PARK RE-OPENS at Bucklebury, between Newbury and Reading, RG7 6RR, 0118 971 4002, www. buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Enjoy the fun of the farm with lots of

Cupcake decorating at Make&Do, Feb half term 13 Feb Shh….Secret Squirrel - Find out about the secret world of squirrels. Make a special nut tree album; it even has a hidden pocket. 10.30am-4.30pm, ages 4-7, £8.50; 13 Feb Make a Stirling Engine! - Have fun building a model working engine to take home, 2-4.30pm, ages 12-16, £9; 14 Feb Valentine in Venice – Design and decorate a 3D model gondola, 10.30am-12.30pm, ages 7-11, £8.50; 15 Feb The Lambton Worm - Join Theatrix for a story, told through puppets, of the Lambton Worm, a dragon that grew from the river, followed by a workshop where you get to make your own dragon, 11am-1pm & 2-4pm, ages 7-12, £9. Book in advance for all workshops.

Plus 16 February Dinosaur Crazy! - Make dinosaur masks, models, and prehistoric landscape collages, play the giant prey and predator game plus lots more to make, learn and do. Free with museum admission, drop in between 10.30am-4pm.

animals, indoor and outdoor play, tractor and trailer rides, deer park, den building and much more.

13-15 February - OASIS HOLIDAY CLUB at Christadelphian Hall, Lower Way, Thatcham, www.newbury-christadelphians.org Games, Crafts, Songs and Bible Stories.

9.45am-12noon. Free fun for children aged 6-11 yrs. All leaders are CRBchecked. For more information and to book a place call 07798 766 701 or email tim.webborn@btinternet.com 13-15 and 20-22 February – NEST BOX BUILDING DAYS at Beale Park, near Pangbourne, 0844 826 1761, www.bealepark.co.uk Build a bird a home to celebrate National Nest Box Week. 2-4pm. £5 per box, plus normal admission.

13-16 February – HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at The River and Rowing Museum, Henley on Thames, 01491 415 605, www.rrm.co.uk

13-16 February – HALF TERM WORKSHOPS at South Hill Park, Bracknell, 01344 484 124,

New Giant Indoor Playbarn!

Don’t miss the NEW Giant Indoor Playbarn at Odds Farm Park! Whoosh down fast slides, scramble through Nets & Tunnels and lots more!

13-17 February – ANIMAL SENSES BY QUIRK’S ANIMAL ROADSHOW/OWEN’S ANIMALS at various Wokingham libraries, www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries Fun animal handling session for children aged 4-12. £3 charge. Book in advance with the relevant library. 13 Feb Lower Earley (0118 931 2150) 10.30am11.30am and Maiden Erlegh (0118 966 6630) 2-3pm; 16 Feb Spencers Wood Village Hall (0118 988 4771) 10am-11am, Wokingham (0118 978 1368) 1.30pm-2.30pm and Winnersh (0118 979 7519) 3pm-4pm; 17 Feb Twyford Youth Centre (0118 934 0800) 11am-12noon and Wargrave (0118 940 4656) 2.45-3.45pm.

at The Nature Discovery Centre

Wednesday 15th February

Recycled Arts Workshop - Yoghurt Seed Pots

Bottl Plus, from February Half Term, Bottle Feed e cute Kid Goats and meet plenty of new babies! Feed K i OPEN DAILY 10AM – 5.30PM TEA ROOM & FREE PARKING

www.southhillpark.org.uk 13 Feb Potters Wheel - Learn how to throw a pot using air dry clay, 10am-12noon or 2-4pm, ages 6-11, £15, members £13; 14 and 16 Feb Art Factory - Spend the morning using clay, collage, drawing and sculpture, 10am–12noon, ages 4-11, £15, members £13.

Goat s!

d

11:30am-3:30pm. £1.00 per pot, drop in event

Thursday 16th February

Homes for Wildlife - Make a Bird Box Home Sessions at 11am, 1:30pm & 3pm £10.00 per box, booking essential.

Friday 17th February

T:01628 520188

Major Mustard Presents ‘Little Blue Skid’ Shows at 11am & 2pm. £5.00 per person, booking essential.

NR BEACONSFIELD, HP10 0LX (M40, J2)

OPENING TIMES: April-October 10.30am-5pm.

November-February 10.30am-4pm Closed 1st-10th January To book or for more information please contact us on T: 01635 874 381 E: naturecentre@westberks.gov.uk www.naturediscovery.org.uk www.twitter.com/WBerksNature

Theatre listings at www.familiestvw.co.uk/theatre

OFP-AM-11-53 118x70.indd 1

08/12/2011 19:47

Thames Valley West

PAGE 27

Great Offers from BEL & THE DRAGON

HARRISON CLINIC

It’s time to treat the family.

Win a three course meal for a family of four at Bel & The Dragon, Reading.

This picturesque restaurant and bar is located on the waterfront of the Kennet and Avon Canal, just a stones throw from the centre of the town. It is the perfect place to take time out to relax and enjoy the superb food and drink on offer. The menu created by Head Chef Ronnie Kimbugwe boasts some of the best in modern British cuisine, using only the freshest seasonal produce, sourced locally.

If you are not a lucky winner and would like to book lunch or find out more just visit www.belandthedragon.co.uk or call 0118 951 5790.

To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/competitions today.

Closing date 10 February.

er ad Re

25% Discount at HALCYON

er ff O

Child goes FREE Reading Climbing Centre is the area’s newest attraction; it offers exciting activities that will keep adults, children and their friends alike talking for weeks! If you would like to try climbing for the first time, regain some lost knowledge or just have a session with the kids why not take advantage of this offer and have a taster session.

To book or for information call 0118 975 6298 or visit www.readingclimbingcentre.com

FREE Junior with Full Paying Adult on Taster Sessions

er ad er Re Off

Treat yourself this winter with a relaxing facial or massage from Halcyon in Twyford. You can enjoy a special discount of 25% on all Dermalogica facials (with FREE Face Mapping analysis) 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.

To book your discounted treatment telephone Halcyon on 0118 934 0355 quoting your Families offer code FAMILIES 2012.

Offer ends 29 February.

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

Thames Valley West

Release the tension and pain within the body with an Osteopathy Consultation from the Harrison Clinic. Osteopathy & cranial osteopathy work using gentle manipulation to realign the spinal and peripheral joints and soft tissue to enable integrated healthy motion of the body as a whole. Rosa Townsend, who has a Masters degree in Paediatric osteopathy treats babies, children, pregnant and post natal mums with a wide array of problems and concerns at the clinic.

If you are not a lucky winner you can still combat the winter blues with some treatment for yourself or a member of your family this season just visit www.harrisonclinic.co.uk or call 0118 9762253.

To enter the Harrison Clinic competition just visit www. familiestvw.co.uk/competitions today. Closing date 10 February.

READING CLIMBING CENTRE

HALCYON

PAGE 28

WIN an Osteopathic Consultation

on ti ti pe m Co

on ti ti pe m Co

WIN Lunch for the Family

Valid until 29 February 2012 Not valid with any other offers Voucher must be redeemed to obtain the discount Valid for Taster Session only Only original voucher accepted Only one child free per voucher per full paying adult

FTVW

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

What’s On Spring Courses at Bracknell Leisure Centre 3rd January - 31st March

Build a nest box at Beale Park, various dates in Feb 13-17 February – FEROCIOUS WILD BEASTS at various Wokingham libraries, www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries Story and craft session. £1 charge. Drop in. 13 Feb Maiden Erlegh (0118 966 6630) 3.15-4pm and Spencers Wood (0118 988 4771) 4pm-4.45pm; 14 Feb Finchampstead (0118 908 8176) 2-3pm; 15 Feb Wargrave (0118 940 4656) 10.30-11.15am; 16 Feb Wokingham (0118 978 1368) 2.30-3.30pm.

14 February - SOUTH HILL PARK STORYWALK at South Hill Park Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell, www.bracknell.gov.uk/parks Travel through time and discover the many marvellous, mysterious and slightly spooky tales of South Hill Park as you explore the grounds with professional storyteller Red Phoenix. Suitable for all ages. 1 hour sessions at 12.30pm. 2pm & 3.20pm. Details from the rangers on 01344 354 441.

13-17 February – HALF TERM ACTIVITIES at Reading Museum, 0118 939 9800, www.readingmuseum.org.uk 13 Feb Make and Take: Paper Bag Birds - Create your own friendly stuffed paper bag birds in these half-hour sessions, drop in between 10am-12noon & 1-3pm, 50p per person; 14 Feb Nature Explorers: Brilliant Bird Feeders Attract some birds to your garden with this recycled bird feeder, complete with seed balls. 1-hour sessions starting at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm, £3, ages 5+yrs, drop in; 14 Feb Victorian Schoolroom Experience - Meet a Victorian schoolteacher and re-learn the ‘3Rs’. A 45-minute experience for adults and children 5+yrs in a unique Victorian classroom, £1, drop in at 11am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm (max 35 spaces per session); 15 Feb Make and Take: Peacock Headresses - Create your own fabulous plumed headband to celebrate the bird prints in the Robert Gillmor exhibition, drop in between 10am-12noon & 1-3pm, 50p per person; 16 Feb Nature Explorers: Planting Suttons Seeds Decorate your pot with fun birdy templates then plant a sunflower. 1-hour sessions starting at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm, £3, ages 5+yrs, drop in.

Please arrive early for popular drop in sessions as spaces are limited.

15 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.

13-17 February – DESIGN HANGING DECORATIONS at California Country Park Make your own stunning, stained glass effect decorations with Egyptian designs.

Children must be supervised. Drop into the café between 10am-4pm. £2.50, no need to book. Details on 0118 973 5519.

14-17 February – HALF TERM WORKSHOPS at Make&Do, 40 Prospect St, Caversham, 0118 327 6717, www.makeanddoworkshops.com Contemporary craft workshops. Morning and afternoon courses making fimo jewellery, sock monkeys, Valentine heart felt brooches and cupcakes. Sessions run for 1hr 55mins. See website for further details.

15-17 February – HALF TERM FAMILY ACTIVITIES at Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre and Hosehill Lake, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Events at Discovery Centre unless otherwise stated. 15 Feb Bird Watching Walk at Hosehill Lake – 11am, £3.50, booking essential; 15 Feb Recycled Arts Workshop: Yoghurt Seed Pot – Make art out of rubbish, £1, drop in between 11.30am-3.30pm; 16 Feb Homes for Wildlife – Make a birdbox to take home, £10 per family, booking essential, sessions at 11am, 1.30pm & 3pm; 17 Feb Little Blue Skid – Interactive puppet show by Major Mustard, £4.50 per person, 11am & 2pm, booking essential.

15-17 February – ‘CODES AND COMMS’ HALF TERM FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS at REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Aborfield, 0118 976 3375, www.rememuseum.org.uk Learn how to crack codes, use ciphers and send secret messages. Fun activities for accompanied children aged 5-12.

11am-3.30pm, drop in. Free with admission.

16 February – BIRD BOX WORKSHOP at Northerams Wood, Ringmead, Bracknell, 01344 354 441, www. bracknell.gov.uk/parks Try your hand at making a range of bird boxes for wildlife at Northerams Wood, during National Nest Box Week. These boxes will later be installed at the woodland to provide homes for our feathered friends. 10am-12noon. Suitable for all ages. Please book.

18 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 with NCT card) Sellers can register on 0844 243 6246.

Come and have some fun!

Badminton, Ballet, Gymnastics,

Cheerleading, Soccer Dribblers, Squash, Swimming, Lifeguard Courses and so much more...

On-site Crèche available and Time Out Café serving fresh snacks, lunches and treats every day.

Bracknell Leisure Centre

Bagshot Road, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 9SE

Tel: 01344 454203

www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

Be Amazed...The Look Out Discovery Centre

Hands-on science fun for all the family - over 90 interactive exhibits

The

BIG

Dinosaur Show

21st January - 6th May 2012 Shows run at weekends and Bracknell school holidays.

Bring this advert for a 10% discount on a family ticket valid until 6/5/12.

Open 10am - 5pm every day The Look Out Discovery Centre

Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW Tel: 01344

354400

www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

Theatre listings at www.familiestvw.co.uk/theatre

Families

Thames Valley West

PAGE 29

What’s On Toddler time at MERL

Fridays, 10-11am & 1-2pm, 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.

Contact us

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

www.reading.ac.uk/merl

Enjoy The Look Out Discovery Centre 18 February - CELEBRATING WOODS DAY at Jocks Lane, Binfield Road, Bracknell, 01344 354 441, www.bracknell.gov.uk/parks Enjoy a fantastic day in the woods with traditional woodland crafts, demonstrations and hands-on activities for all ages. Try out the ancient skill of hazel coppicing. Other activities include wood turning, hurdle making, hedge laying, green chair making, Morris dancing, family-friendly treasure trail, BBQ, miniature steam railway rides, green-gardening and wood products for sale. 10am-3pm.

25 February - BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at The Barn, Goosecroft Lane, off Beech Road, Purley on Thames, Reading RG8 8DR, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk 2-4pm. See 4 Feb entry for details.

25 February – CAR BOOT SALE at 79th Reading Scout Hall, Armour Hill, Tilehurst, Reading 11am-1pm. Sellers from 10am. Indoor

stalls can be pre-booked by calling Kate on 07846 833 681. £9 per table (table provided). Buyers 50p each.

25 February – BIRDERS DAY at Reading Museum, 0118 939 9800, www.readingmuseum.org.uk A celebration of local wildlife artist Robert Gillmor’s long association with local birders, notably the Berkshire Ornithological Club. Club members will be in the Museum to chat to visitors about birds and birdwatching. There will be displays, competitions and activities for all the family. 11am–3.30pm, with talks at 12noon & 2pm, free, drop in.

If you would like details of your production or event to appear in the What’s On pages, please give us a ring on 0118 954 6893 or email us at listings@ familiestvw.co.uk The deadline for the March/April issue is 1 February.

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 currently located in Newbury, Hungerford, Caversham, Bracknell, Woodley, Wokingham, Spencers Wood, Purley on Thames, Reading and across the Thames Valley. For our dates & locations see the ‘What’s On’ section of this magazine or visit us at:

www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk 07881 641614 Join our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/BabyandChildrensMarketUK

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Basildon House Gardens re-open 6 Feb

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Relax at Ragdale Are you looking for a Valentine’s Day treat or somewhere really special for a girl’s weekend away? Then how about a luxurious spa break at Ragdale Hall? We sent along a local couple to test the waters.

From the minute we walked through the door at Ragdale Hall in Leicestershire the welcoming atmosphere instantly made us relax.

After being greeted with a cup of coffee served in the Garden Room Bar, I set off for a spot of exercise to work up an appetite before lunch.

The Pilates Class was well structured and although for ‘intermediates’ the instructor skillfully gave support to each person in the group showing them the particular exercise extension most suitable for their level. Ragdale Hall offers a great variety of classes from Combat to Yoga, Hot Salsa Fitness to Candlelight Stretch. There are also a host of outdoor activities to enjoy too such as croquet, cycling or a Country walk. Plus aqua classes are held in the Exercise Pool.

Food is first class. A sumptuous, healthy yet very tasty buffet is served in the Dining Room at lunch and an à la carte menu in the evening gives you a choice of 4-5 items for each of the 3 courses. If you are feeling peckish during the day then the Verandah Bar and Garden Room all serve a delicious array of snacks and tasty treats to be enjoyed.

Following a wonderful buffet lunch, we spent the whole afternoon luxuriating in the Thermal Spa. The water and heat rooms are the perfect way to relax, enjoy yourself and have fun. The Candle Pool is a magical cavern lit by softly glowing tea-lights that make the mosaic tiles sparkle. The Volcanic Salt Bath was another favourite. The mineral traces embedded in the black granite walls, floor and benches glint in the soft blue light and a eucalyptus, menthol and salt infusion is spritzed

into the steamy air. For a wake up call there is always the cold mist shower or ice fountain. The cave shower is an experience not to be missed. Within a natural cave-like room the sound of distant thunder roars and ‘rain’ begins to pour down on you. Or choose the waterfall effect for a torrent of water. All great fun to experience. We completed the afternoon relaxing by the pool, having a swim and using the hydro massage jets around the side of the pool.

With over 50 various Treatment Rooms for traditional and holistic therapies we had absolutely no problem booking in for the

treatments we wanted. We enjoyed a 50-minute full body detox massage. The Swedish style massage was just the correct pressure and the expert hands of the therapist quickly found the areas that required the most attention. There are also 6 manicure and 6 pedicure stations to ensure hands and feet have tip-top attention too.

Then should you just wish to curl up in a comfy sofa, the cosy lounges with snug sofas and armchairs are the perfect place to sit and gossip with the girls or relax with your book whilst looking out at the glorious countryside or gardens.

Shopaholics will love the Beauty Shop, which offers top of the range skincare and makeup brands. The Ragdale Boutique offers some gorgeous clothes, accessories, footwear and jewellery to suit all budgets. Lastly the Gift shop has some beautiful items of home décor and gifts.

After a relaxing day and a lovely meal and wine it was great to flop into the most comfortable of beds with crisp white cotton bedding and the plumpest of pillows and quilts.

Needless to say we got a great night’s sleep.

And Ragdale is definitely not just for the Mums – my husband is definitely a ‘Spa-Man’ after this weekend. Having not been to a spa before he is a convert. It was really good to have time out together with no pressure on us to do anything at all but ‘chill’.

A two night midweek break starts at £288 per person sharing a twin/double room including all meals, a choice from a selection of treatments and use of facilities, at the weekend the two night packages are from £355 per person.

Day packages are from £69-£169.

Ragdale Hall also offers vouchers, which make excellent presents for special occasions – these start at £25. You can find out more online www.ragdalehall.co.uk or call 01664 433 000 to make a reservation.

Why diets don’t work – www.familiestvw.co.uk/diets

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Statement from the Editor In our last issue, the article Are we nearly there yet mentioned ‘emergency loo stops on the hard shoulder’. We have been asked to point out that stopping on the hard shoulder of a motorway is very dangerous and should only be done in cases of breakdown or real emergency.

Thames Valley West

PAGE 31

Health experts are worried that children in the UK are not getting enough exercise. So why not start the New Year with an activity to get them moving and having fun!

Here are a few you might like to try.

KEEP ON DANCING! 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

Call Sima on 07956 993 439 www.simasactionkids.com

DANCIA INTERNATIONAL, 36-38 PROSPECT STREET, CAVERSHAM, READING, RG 4 8 JL MON-FRI 10AM - 5.30 PM SAT 9.30 AM – 5 PM TEL: 0118 9478123 WWW.DANCIA.CO.UK/READING

W ITH S HOES A ND D ANCEWEAR F ROM D ANCIA I NTERNATIONAL

BERKSHIRE’S PREMIER DANCE SHOP!

Printed by Warners Midlands PLC 01778 391 000, www.warners.co.uk. Copyright Families Thames Valley West December 2011. 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.