Families Thames Valley West Issue 74 Nov-Dec 2014

FR EE

Thames Valley West November/December 2014

Issue 74 www.familiestvw.co.uk

Q. What do

Families and Bizzy Bitz have in common?

A. See page 29 for answer

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

Wintertime at Jubilee Winter is a really magical time here at Jubilee Day Nursery. It begins when the outdoor Christmas Lights get switched on in early December, a fantastic display including a large Father Christmas, LED Snowmen, Penguins, Polar Bears, Toy Soldiers and even Trains.

The children love seeing the lights twinkling in the evening and early morning darkness.

This time of year we also look forward to a very special event in our winter calendar; our Winter Wonderland Walk. Where all our children’s parents, siblings and grandparents join us on a walk through our farmland, down to our private woodland area, affectionately known as Roughwood. There we sing carols and Christmas Songs around our Christmas Tree. There is hot chocolate, coffee and mulled wine so everyone can enjoy a crisp festive winter’s evening.

Disney’s Frozen is our theme for this years Winter Wonderland Walk.

Lets hope it’s cold enough for Olaf and his friends.

January and February also offer a fantastic opportunity for the children at the nursery to explore the cold and frosty outdoors. There is nothing they love more than wrapping up warm and being outside searching out frozen cobwebs, crunching their boots on frozen leaves and pretending to be puffing dragons! The children often walk to the woods in winter time to feed our animals too – and they even help break the ice when the duck pond gets frozen!

If you would like your child to be part of this amazing learning experience on a part-time or full-time basis please contact one of our nursery managers.

Call Lesley on 01189 701 600 Email info@jubileedaynursery.co.uk or Visit our website www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Paddock View, Rectory Road, Padworth Common, RG7 4JD

Call Sian on 01189 834 018 Email info@jubileegems.co.uk or Visit our website www.jubileegems.co.uk

Ark House, School Road, Padworth, Berkshire, RG7 4JA

Successful established magazine franchise

FOR SALE

After 6 years as the helm it’s time for us to move on as our children are at secondary school and will soon be off to university and we are sadly no longer as engaged with young children as we used to be. So, we are looking for someone who will take on our much loved and cherished magazine.

Ideally you would be a parent looking to have an interesting and varied business of your own that gives you independence whilst still being flexible enough for you to spend the time you desire with your own children.

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There‘s none of the hassle and hard work of starting from scratch, instead you can take advantage of a large and loyal client base and start earning from day one.

If you are interested in running your own business and want a job that works around your family find out more TODAY. Contact us Jane Brianboys & Karen Roberts, Editors Families TVW 0118 954 6893 editor@familiestvw.co.uk Thames Valley West www.familiestvw.co.uk

PAGE 2

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

inthisissue ISSUE 74• NOV/DEC 2014

Visit us now at www.familiestvw.co.uk

4

News & Views 7 Positive Parenting

Tips to help with those tantrums

8

School Noticeboard 10 Active Mums

Two local mums tell us their stories

12

Early Years Special

12 13 14

17

Song & Story time Early Years News Clubs & Classes for the Under 5s Wonder Weeks

18

Diary Dates 23 Competitions 24 Pantomimes

A round-up of local Christmas shows

26 28

Where’s Santa All I want for Christmas

Some great toy choices for all ages

Editor’s Letter

If you thought Santa Claus was back at the North Pole busy making toys then think again. We’ve discovered him having all sorts of fun in deepest Berkshire; just turn to page 26 to find out where you can find him on boats, trains and even down on the farm.

There’s plenty more festive fun in this issue. You’ll find Christmas shows packed with dames, flying boys and pantomime cows on page 24; details of when the local lights are being switched on, Christmas shopping events and lots more in our What’s On pages; plus some great gift ideas. And don’t miss our lovely article on page 31 which has suggestions for festive family traditions that are guaranteed to create some truly magical memories.

Parents with babies and pre-schoolers won’t want to miss our Early Years special which includes lots of activities for the Under 5s. Take your pick from music and movement, dance and drama, art, swimming and gymnastics. Plus story and rhyme times, toy libraries and much, much more.

Wishing all our readers, advertisers and distributers….

A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS! Karen and Jane

Local Gift Guide 31 Festive Traditions 30

Create your own magical family memories To advertise: Tel: 0118 954 6893 adverts@familiestvw.co.uk Contact us: editor@familiestvw.co.uk Designed by: Graphic Resolutions 01438 871600 Next issue: January/February – Holidays, Health Booking Deadline – 1 December

Don’t miss these great offers and competitions WIN tickets to Aladdin at the Corn Exchange – page 23 WIN an Owl experience at Feathers & Fur – page 23 WIN tickets to Odds Farm Park – page 23 FREE underwater photos from Babies Go Swimming – page 23 WIN a personalised child’s bathrobe from Towelsoft – page 29 Special OFFER with Go-Kart Party – www.familiestvw.co.uk/offers

Thames Valley West

PAGE 3

News & Views Lots more at www.familiestvw.co.uk Firework displays in Berkshire -

www.familiestvw.co.uk/fireworks

Make your own Xmas decorations www.familiestvw.co.uk/ festivefoliage

Trampoline buying guide www.familiestvw.co.uk/ trampolines

New dance shop opens in Crowthorne!

Following the huge success of her Caversham-based branch of Dancia International, Jude Chapman has opened a new branch of the award-winning store in Crowthorne High Street.

“The Crowthorne branch brings all the benefits of Dancia to East Berkshire, so customers will no longer have to travel as far for them”, says Jude. “We are stocking uniforms for dance schools in the Wokingham, Bracknell, Ascot and Camberley areas, with a professional pointe shoe fitting service available by appointment. We also have a great range of shoes for ballroom, Latin and Irish dancing, plus bags, tights and hair accessories. And all provided with the friendly professionalism that our customers always receive from the Dancia team. ” Dancia International is at 235 High Street, Crowthorne, RG45 7AH. Tel: 01344 286 884.

Email: Crowthorne@dancia.co.uk.

Web: www.dancia.co.uk/crowthorne

Dressing your bump with style Award winning fashion stylist Lisa Talbot, is relishing her latest style challenge - helping dress beautiful bumps with the re-launch of boutique maternity hire company Hire Expectations.

Hire Expectations enables women to hire stylish maternity and breastfeeding occasion wear, the perfect alternative to purchasing a dress you may only need to wear once.

Lisa Talbot says, “First and foremost Hire Expectations is about offering good quality, stylish, great fitting garments for women throughout all stages of their pregnancy. My personal style experience will bring a new direction to the business and we will continue to strive to help pregnant women look fabulous and feel confident without the high price tag.”

The outfits available are ideal for special events such as Ascot, Henley Regatta, Christmas parties and birthdays, weddings and christenings. Hire charges range from just £26 to a maximum of £55, making it the affordable way to dress that bump.

For more information visit www.hireexpectations.co.uk

tjefferis@b-legal.co.uk

Put a smile on a child’s face this Christmas The annual Toys & Teens Appeal, run by Reading Family Aid, and sponsored by The Reading Chronicle has launched. Last year the generous people of Reading donated thousands of toys, and Reading Family Aid were able to provide Christmas gifts to over 1,600 children.

This year they would like to support even more.

Please donate new or nearly-new toys and gifts for children, aged 0 to 16 years, whose families do not have the means to give their children the Happy Christmas the more fortunate enjoy.

Details of donation points will be available on posters around town and in The Reading Chronicle. For more info visit www.ReadingFamilyAid.org, call 07886 562 392, or email info@ReadingFamilyAid.org

PAGE 4

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

News & Views Stamp out bullying

© stefanolunardi - Fotolia.com

National Anti-Bullying Week takes place from 17-21 November, with this year’s theme of Let’s Stop Bullying Together. The Anti-Bullying Week website is packed with resources for schools, parents and children, plus online workshops and short films on how to survive bullying.

Why not take part in their Anti-Bullying Competition, too, by designing a gadget, drawing a picture, writing a story, song or poem, taking a photo, or shooting a film or documentary. Entries can be fun, entertaining, serious, creative, colourful or futuristic, so get stuck in now for the chance to win a prize of up to £300.

Find out more about bullying and how to stop it, as well as everything you need to know about Anti-Bullying Week at www.antibullyingweek.co.uk

Guide for depression

Get stickered up… …with The Sticker Club, a weekly subscription club delivering high quality stickers to children around the world. Two dads have drawn upon their successful entrepreneurial backgrounds to launch the club after spotting the growing desire for parents to encourage imaginative play through non-digital resources.

The Sticker Club has recruited some of the best creative designers from all over the globe to be involved, and the stickers are great. The concept is simple - sign up and each week you will receive 9 sticker sheets with a minimum of 40 stickers per week. That’s over 2000 stickers per year! Stickers feature exciting themes from robots and aliens to animals and transport, plus loads of other eye catching, imaginative designs. All you have to do is decide where to stick them. £1.99 per week, www.thestickerclub.com

Around one in ten young people will experience depression, stress or anxiety by the time they reach 18. But where can their parents turn to for help? The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust has launched an essential guide for parents who might be worried that their child is depressed. It offers answers to all the most frequently asked questions parents have, plus guidance on what to do next.

A Parent’s Guide to Depression is filled with clear, practical advice for anyone concerned that their son or daughter has a mental health problem, tackling the challenges parents face such as how to distinguish between natural adolescent mood swings and depression, and ways to talk about your concerns with your child.

‘Parents are usually the first to notice that their child’s behaviour has changed,’ said Jackie Williams of the Charlie Waller Memorial Trust. ‘Often they feel powerless to help, particularly if their child is shutting themselves off from their family and the wider world. But the good news is there are proven, practical strategies to help your child overcome their depression.’

Visit the charity’s website www.cwmt.org.uk to read an online version of the guide or to download a more concise printed booklet.

Get sewing Make a change from fast fashion and create timeless clothes for girls and boys with gorgeous new book Sew Adorable. Choose from special occasion outfits, hardwearing winter coats and cosy pyjamas – there are over 20 different projects in the book helping you sew practical and longlasting clothes, including hats, romper suits and bibs. There are also great ideas for dressing up clothes, patterns for animal masks and crowns and even stuffed dolls that can make wonderful, homemade additions to a child’s toy box. £14.99, www.thegmcgroup.com

Competition Winners from September/ October issue

Personal injury solicitors Specialising in a wide range of accidents and injuries, we have been helping accident victims for well over 30 years.

Members of all the relevant specialist panels including the Law Society, Headway and the Spinal Injuries Association.

We hope it never happens to you, but if you do have an accident, call Kim Smerdon

South Hill Park tickets: Sarah Webb Diddi Dance classes: Elisha Kent Lands End backpack Lindsey Claydon Odds Farm Park tickets: Belinda Meaden, Abby Stevens

Freephone 0800 884 0719 Email advice@claims-personalinjury.com www.boyesturnerclaims.com Let us show you that it really is true ... not all law firms are the same.

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

Families Mag TVwest Mar 2013v2.indd 1

06/02/2013 12:42:49

Thames Valley West

PAGE 5

News & Views Wear A Hat Day 2015

agic begin...

Let thhaeLem t wit

Save the date - 27 March - for Wear A Hat Day 2015. This fun-filled annual event aims to increase awareness and raise funds for long-term research into brain tumours, the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40. Unlike most other cancers, incidences and deaths from brain tumours are increasing yet brain tumour research receives just 1% of the national cancer research spend, making community fundraising so vital.

Organised by Brain Tumour Research, the charity is now offering a fresh challenge: the Wear A Hat Day awards for extraordinary Wear A Hat Day events - be it amazingly imaginative hats, novel fundraising ideas, perhaps even record-breaking hat-related events, alongside exciting initiatives to maximise awareness of the cause.

Taking part in Wear A Hat Day 2015 is simple. Register today by visiting the charity’s website at www.braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday Fundraising materials including posters, leaflets, fridge magnets, pin badges, wristbands quizzes and hat making instructions will be available from the charity in early 2015.

ter fro m Santa

This year, give a child a magical Christmas with a personalised Letter from Santa. Sent all the way from the North Pole, this special letter will create an amazing childhood memory that will last for years.

Visit nspcc.org.uk/santa to get the magic started.

What your child will receive...

Special personalised message from Santa

£5

per SUGGletter DONAESTED TION

Delivered by Rudolph Mail

Registered charity England and Wales 216401. Scotland SC037717. © 2014 Illustrations by Jason Chapman.

Magical illustrations A treasured keepsake for years to come

Request your Letter today Visit: nspcc.org.uk/santa Remember to request your Letter by

15 December!

4309 LFS_Ad_A4_portrait_AW2.indd 1

Call: 0845 839 9304 Text: SANTA to 65599 Texts are charged at your standard network rate.

05/09/2014 13:22

The box your kids will love The fantastic new FlatBox-LunchBox will revolutionise your child’s packed lunch. Not only is this amazing new lunch box fully machine washable, it has two layers of insulation to keep food cold for longer and unzips to become a placemat, keeping your food free from germs and dirty surfaces. Available in 9 different colours, it is suitable for children and adults alike, and perfect for picnics too. We love their pink one with lime green trim. From £19.25, www.theniceststuff.com

PAGE 6

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Parenting

How to…get your children to behave Hannah Hunter gives us some simple techniques to help ward off tantrums at the checkout.

Picture the scene. You’re at the supermarket and you’ve refused your child something that they want, causing them to freak out and scream loudly. You react by shouting back at them.

Before long the situation is out of hand, with both of you at full-volume and people staring.

All kids will have a tantrum at some point, some simple steps can help to avoid this behaviour or at least lessen it. Trying a bit of distraction when the anger starts to build up - telling a joke, pulling a silly face - can be really effective.

If it’s too late for humour, then take a deep breath and a mental step back. Is their behaviour really unreasonable? Can you just ignore it and carry on with your shopping? Maybe you have a spare few minutes to put the trolley aside and take them out of the situation? It could be either out of that aisle or maybe even out of the supermarket, where you can both calm down.

Positive Parenting This approach may seem like pie in the sky when faced with a screaming 3-year old, but it’s never too early to try what the NSPCC calls ‘positive parenting’.

If you show love and affection to your child and praise them when they are behaving well, they will associate getting attention with good behaviour.

Active ignoring is encouraged, while physical punishments like smacking should be off limits: “smacking or biting back gives a very confusing message – that it is OK to use force or to hit physically when you are angry or to make a point.”

So when you feel like you’re at the end of your tether, try to stay calm. After all, a toddler having a tantrum in the supermarket is one thing, but a screaming adult in the frozen food aisle? Not a good look…

Here are some hints from leading Clinical Psychologist, Professor Tanya Byron, on how to smooth out behavioural problems, and get the best from your child.

your child firmly but with no attention to a safe place where you can leave them for a period of one minute for each year of their life (i.e. three minutes for a three-year-old) up to a maximum of five minutes. You should not talk to your child through the door or give them any other form of attention during the Time Out period.

“Once the Time Out period is over, explain to your child why they were Timed Out and then move on and praise them at the first opportunity.”

Tantrums

Be positive “One of the biggest mistakes we make as parents is to leave our children alone and say nothing to them when they’re behaving nicely.

“Ignore the behaviour you don’t want.

Instead, emphasise the positive with cuddles, kisses, and praise, and tell them all the things they need to hear in order for them to understand they will get attention for doing things nicely.”

Distraction “As soon as you feel the temper rising, distract them onto something else: a funny song, story, or ‘did you see that green squirrel with orange stripes just fly past the window?’”

Ignoring “Ignoring gives the message that the behaviour gets no reward and if you use this technique alongside praising every lovely behaviour, your children will get a very powerful message.”

Time out “First ask your child to stop misbehaving. If that doesn’t work, ask again, but more firmly. This gives the child two chances to change his or her behaviour, and if they do, you praise them.

“If they refuse to stop the behaviour, or if the tantrum escalates, you go for Time Out. Take

More parenting articles at www.familiestvw.co.uk/parenting

“Tantrums happen to all parents. They do not mean you are a bad parent. You can try to prevent them with praise and sticker charts. If that fails, you can try to distract the tantrums away. But once started, the best way to stop them is to ignore them.

“Remember: distract, ignore, but do not punish.”

Rewards “At home, a sticker chart is a great way of encouraging good behaviour. Each time your child is good, give them a sticker. Naughty behaviour gets a ‘sad face’. Points mean prizes - enough stickers get them a treat.”

Positive example “It’s straightforward but it works - your children will copy you. Swear and they will swear, smack and they will smack. Lead by example.”

• Professor Byron’s new book The Skeleton Cupboard, is out now, published by Pan Macmillan. www.panmacmillan. com/book/tanyabyron/theskeletoncupboard

Positive Discipline Workshops Meadowbrook Montessori in Warfield regularly runs Saturday workshops which teach parents positive discipline techniques and a range of tools to help deal with the everyday challenges of raising children during the various stages of development. Find out more at www.meadowbrookmontessori.org or call 01344 890 869.

Thames Valley West

PAGE 7

Education

School Noticeboard

Meadowbrook School

Gorgeous reads

A personalised educational journey with high academic standards delivered through an innovative yet robust marriage of Montessori practice and the National Curriculum.

Delve into the exciting new series of books by Madeleine Rogers, which includes The Safari Set, The Polar Pack and The Jungle Crew. Aimed at children aged 4 to 7, the books teach kids about the animals of different environments through playful rhyme and colourful illustrations.

Each book also contains a set of 5 animals, plus scenery, for children to pop out and fold and glue together.

Vibrant and modern, they are perfect for gifts too. £12.99 from www.thegmcgroup.com. www.buttonbooks.co.uk

Offering a seamless transition through Parent and Toddler sessions at 15 months to Montessori Preschool classes and onward to quality Primary education, where highly qualified and experienced teachers prepare children fully for a range of secondary school options.

Tailor-made education from 2 to 11 years in an atmosphere of mutual respect with high expectations for both academic and personal skills.

Raising Children Through Positive Discipline Saturday Workshop th Saturday 8 November Now accepting registrations for Meadowbrook’s new Montessori afternoon session Meadowbrook Montessori School & Teacher Training College Malt Hill Warfield RG42 6JQ 01344 890869 www.meadowbrookmontessori.org

Big changes at Bearwood College Local independent school Bearwood College has become part of the international schools group Reddam House. Bearwood has a proud history, originally as a school for children of merchant seamen, and offers day places for girls and boys from three months to 18 years old as well as boarding.

Dr Stephen Spurr, recently retired Headmaster of Westminster School, has been appointed Managing Director of Reddam House Europe and will be based at Reddam House Bearwood, focusing his full attention on the group’s flagship school.

By September 2015, Bearwood College, which is located in beautiful countryside close to Wokingham, will re-launch under the Reddam House banner. A major redevelopment programme has already begun, which will see this historic school transformed for a brilliant future. Find out more at www.bearwoodcollege.co.uk

To advertise in Families call 0118 954 6893

What price a decent education?

A good catchment area is more important than the style or look of a house when parents are choosing a new home, according to research from Sarah Beeny’s online estate agency, Tepilo.

Parents were asked what, theoretically, was the maximum additional amount they’d be prepared to spend on their home to ensure they ended up in their preferred school’s catchment area. Parents in the south of England are most likely to consider spending significant sums to get their children into the right school: nearly 13% would spend £20-£30,000 and nearly 8% say they’d spend more than £100,000.

The figures suggest the problem is a growing one, with almost twothirds of parents saying educational provision is more of a postcode lottery than when they were growing up.

Discussing the results, Sarah Beeny said: “It may not be fair but, unless you have the money to go outside the state sector, getting your child into a good school is tied up inextricably with where you live. The good news for those who have taken on a bigger mortgage for this reason is that, because being in a good catchment area is such a huge selling-point, those who have invested in getting their child into the right school will often find that their efforts are rewarded not just in good GCSEs and university places, but in a very attractive sale price for that property when they, too, decide to move further up the ladder.”

PAGE 8 Untitled-2 1

11/06/2014 11:25

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Education

Why does my child get homework?

M&S

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

•

How much homework should my child be getting?

•

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

• Reception: 30 minutes a week • Years 1 & 2: 60 minutes a week • Years 3 & 4: 90 minutes a week • Years 5 & 6: 30 minutes a day • Years 7 & 8: Up to 90 minutes a day

•

Should I be helping my child with their homework?

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

Your child’s teacher isn’t interested that you are able to complete a fractions worksheet or design a poster on electricity. You should be able to do it. You’re a grown up! However if your child can’t, their teacher needs to know so they can offer support in the classroom to make sure the topic is fully understood. This is your child’s homework not a joint effort. Your job is direction and encouragement to find the answers themselves.

•

Top tips for helping with homework • Make sure your child is eating well, getting enough sleep and getting enough exercise.

All this helps concentration both in the classroom and at home after school.

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

•

distractions. Discuss the expectations you have and the consequences if the homework isn’t completed well. This will, hopefully, encourage good homework habits.

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

Direct your child to focus their mind. Before they launch into the task, encourage a ‘think through’. Ask them to tell you what needs doing and ask them questions about the task set. How long does it need to be? Does it need doing on the computer or by hand?

What ideas have they had since the homework was set? This direction helps them focus their ideas and work productively.

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

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

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

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

All children to start learning a language at Primary school As of this term, teaching a language will become mandatory from Key Stage Two (ages 7 to 11). Schools will be free to choose from French, German, Italian, Mandarin, Spanish, Latin or Ancient Greek.

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

With English teenagers scoring lowest for first foreign language skills in a recent European Commission study of 16 countries, the move to starting earlier is a positive first step towards improving language skills in all key stages.

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge Recommended by tutors for the verbal reasoning element of the Durham CEM test

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Interested Visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/education Visit us nowinatschool www. issues? familiestvw.co.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 9

Early Years

Active Mums!

Exercise can be hard to fit in around babies and toddlers. Vicky and Imogen from the Harrison Clinic tell us how they manage it.

It’s not easy being a mum juggling different roles – trying to be the best mum we can possibly be, managing the household chores and often working too.

Where do we find the time to do it all? Even with the best of intentions it’s no wonder getting exercise slips down the list. But there are so many benefits to getting back out there again and getting fit. So how can we do it? Here are a few things to bear in mind.

The Basics What we need to remember is that it took our bodies nine months of change to bring our children into this world - and it can take just as long to get our prepregnancy bodies back. Of course there are women who get their figures back in no time but for others it can be a longer process. It is important to remember that you should have your six week check by your midwife or GP before you return to any form of impact exercises - such as running. If you have had a caesarean then it should be twelve weeks before you return to exercise. But don’t let these stop you doing some gentle exercise in the early stages of being a new Mum. There is nothing better for both mother and baby than going for a walk with baby in a push chair or baby sling.

Start Gradually It is also important to remember that for your body to recover and the muscles to work properly correct posture is essential. Whatever your activity - feeding your baby, putting the washing on, entertaining your toddler or out on a walk - try to have your knees slightly relaxed rather that locked back, gently pull your tummy muscles in, draw your shoulders back and down, and tuck your chin in. It may feel forced to begin with but the more you practise it the more comfortable it will feel and the better your body will function in the long term.

A great way of gently easing back into doing exercise is Pilates. It helps to strengthen your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles which are the ones most affected during your pregnancy. Ideally a postnatal Pilates class, where you can take your babies along as well, would probably fit into your life best.

www.harrisonclinic.co.uk

Osteopathy Physiotherapy Acupuncture Cranial Osteopathy Sports Massage Nutritional Consultancy

Exceptional care in a friendly, relaxed environment 0118 976 2253

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

PAGE 10

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Early Years At The Harrison Clinic one-to-one postnatal Pilates is available where you can also bring your baby. This would build on the postnatal aspects of Pilates and give you the knowledge and confidence you need to be able to join a class if the future if you wanted.

Finding Time This can be the hardest part of getting back into exercising. You will need help with childcare, so think about who you can ask, maybe grandparents or friends, and find what works for you. Talk to your husband/ partner and get him on board. Can you get an extra session for the children at nursery or with the child minder? Don’t feel guilty about taking the time for yourself. You will feel better for it, and everyone will benefit.

Setting Goals Goals are important. From personal experience I know that having a deadline is important, at work and at home. So entering a race is the best way to give my training focus. Once there is a date to work towards I feel quite excited. Whatever your sport, you can find a training programme on the internet or in sports magazines. This helps your fitness and improves your pace and it breaks up the monotony of doing the same thing every week. It can be so satisfying seeing your times improve.

Be Realistic Our children just love to share their germs with us. If you are tired you are going to be susceptible to those infections. Don’t train if you don’t feel well. You will probably have a slow session, feel worse afterwards and may lose the joy of it. So look after yourself. The training programme will just have to wait for a few days.

It is also good to remember that you will have variations in your performance. It is normal to have an improvement followed by a plateau. When this happens don’t feel disheartened, but stick with it and you will see improvements again. On those days when you really don’t feel like it, choose a short session that is less tiring.

And remember; you’ll feel better for doing it!

Vicky Mynott BSc Physiotherapy MSRP HPC and Imogen Hall BSc Acupuncure Dip Ac, MBAcC. Harrison Clinic, Bridge Farm, Reading Road, Arborfield, Reading, RG2 9HT. 0118 976 2253, www.harrisonclinic.co.uk

My Experience Imogen Six months after our first daughter was born I did a 10k run, in May 2011. I thought ‘This is alright, I can manage parenthood and keeping fit.’ When the sleepless nights continued the running stopped as I felt too tired. Our second daughter was born in October 2012 and then I really didn’t have the energy. But it has got easier as they get a bit older, and I felt that it was time to get back into it.

I knew that I needed some serious motivation to get me out, so I entered the Windsor Half Marathon. I Imogen in action found a 10 week training programme and followed it as well as I could, with some gaps here and there when I got ill. I managed to get out three times a week. Our childminder had the children an extra morning once a week. It’s cheaper than gym membership! I also did a short training session in the evening when the children were in bed. My husband’s support has been central to my training. He has looked after our children on the weekends when I go for a long run, and he will look after them all day when I do the race. I’m lucky he is so encouraging.

I ran the Windsor half on Sunday 29 September. It was a lovely sunny day, a bit hot for a long run, but it meant the views round the course were worth the effort. I finished in 2:20, not bad for my first big race in quite a few years. It felt like hard work at the time but I do have a tremendous sense of satisfaction that I have done it.

Vicky

Vicky with her son Toby

In spring, I also decided that I needed a goal to motivate me so I entered Shiplake Sprint Triathlon. This involved a 750 metre swim, a 14km bike ride and a 5km run. I already swam one evening a week so changed this to an open water training session either in the evening or early on a weekend morning. I then changed my weekly 60 minute run to a 40 minute bike ride leading straight into a 30 minute run.

In August I completed the triathlon but unfortunately, minutes before we were about to get into the river, a bolt of lightning flashed over our heads and the swim was cancelled. My training paid off and I ended up coming 9th in my category - a big morale boost for me! I will definitely be doing another triathlon, I really enjoyed it and felt like I’d achieved something for me, and left my family feeling proud.

Moremore Lots on education on healthatatwww.familiestvw.co.uk/education www.familiestvw.co.uk/health

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

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

Baby Sensations Baby Sensations is a small independent Berkshire company offering Baby Massage classes and Sensory sessions.

For more details find us on facebook or visit www.babysensations.co.uk

07738 566 646

E-mail info@babysensations.co.uk

Introduce little ones to the Big Screen

Join us EVERY TUESDAY at 11am for a 30 minute screening Free to join : children £3, adults and babies un der 1 free 2 Boroma Way, Henley RG9 2BZ

0871 902 5738 www.picturehouses.co.uk/henley

Thames Valley West

PAGE 11

Early Years

Story & Rhyme Times Children are never too young to enjoy a visit to the library and regular trips can help develop a life-long love of reading and books. Our libraries are keen to encourage young visitors and most hold regular story and rhymetime events for parents and little ones to enjoy together.

They’re also a good way to meet other local parents. We’ve listed below regular activities for the Under 5s. Special one-off library events are also listed in our What’s On pages.

Wokingham Libraries (www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries)

Finchampstead Library (0118 908 8176) Storytime - first Friday in month 11-11.30am. Rhymetime for Under 5s second, third and fourth Friday in month 11-11.30am.

Lower Earley Library (0118 931 2150) Rhymetime for Babies - third Tuesday in month 10.30-11am with songs and rhymes. Rhymetime for Toddlers - third Tuesday in month 11.30am-12noon with stories, songs and action rhymes.

Storytime - Thursdays 2.30-3pm.

Dad and Baby Rhymetime - selected Saturdays 10.30-11am. Contact the library for dates.

Spencers Wood Library (0118 988 4771) Rhymetime for Under 5s - third Thursday in month 2.30-3pm. Storytime - Mondays 4-4.30pm.

Wargrave Library (0118 940 4656) Storytime - Mondays 4-4.30pm, first Saturday in month 10.30-11am.

Winnersh Library (0118 979 7519) Rhymetime for Under 5s - fourth Wednesday in month 10.15-10.45am.

Storytime - first Wednesday in month 10.15-10.45am.

Wokingham Library (0118 978 1368) Rhymetime for Babies - first Tuesday in month 10.30-11am, third Wednesday in month 10-10.30am. Rhymetime for Toddlers - first Tuesday in month 11.30am-12noon, third Wednesday in month 11-11.30am. Dad and Baby Rhymetime - selected Saturdays 10.3011am. Storytime - Tuesdays 2-2.30pm.

Woodley Library (0118 969 0304) Rhymetime for Babies - second Tuesday in month 10.30-11am. Rhymetime for Toddlers - second Tuesday in month 11.30am-12noon. Storytime - second Thursday in month 6-6.30pm, fourth Thursday in month 10.30-11am.

Twyford Library (0118 934 0800)

Rhymetime for Under 5s - second Friday in month 10.30am-11am.

PAGE 12

Thames Valley West

Wokingham Library

Rhymetimse - various sessions: for babies with songs and rhymes; for toddlers with stories songs and action rhymes; for all under 5s; and specifically for dads. Places limited so please book.

Storytime - with fun stories and rhymes for under 5s to share with parents, just drop in.

Reading Libraries (www.readinglibraries.org.uk) Rhymetime - fun sessions for babies, toddlers and their carers. Storytime and Craft sessions - for the under 5s.

Battle Library (0118 901 5100)

Rhymetime - Tuesdays 10.30-11am, Fridays 10-10.30am & 11.15-11.45am.

Polish Rhymetime - 1st & 3rd Monday in month 10am. Storytime - Tuesdays & Thursdays 2.30-3pm, Saturdays 11.30am-12noon.

Caversham Library (0118 901 5103)

Rhymetime - Tuesdays 10.15-10.45am & 11.15-11.45am, Wednesdays 2.15-2.45pm (need to book). Storytime - Thursdays 2-2.30pm.

Palmer Park Library (0118 901 5106)

Rhymetime - Tuesdays 10-10.30am, Fridays 10.30-11am. Storytime - Mondays 2.15-2.45pm.

Reading Central Library (0118 901 5100) Rhymetime - Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 10.30-11am.

Southcote Library (0118 901 5109) Storytime with Rhymes - Thursdays 9.30-10am. Rhymetime - Fridays 10.3011am (need to book). Toy Library - open Tuesdays 9.30am-12noon, Thursdays 2-5pm, Saturdays 9.30-11am & 2-3.30pm.

Tilehurst Library (0118 901 5112)

Rhymetime - Mondays 9.30-10am & 10.45-11.15am, Fridays 10.30-11am.

Storytime - Thursdays 2.30-3pm.

Storytime with crafts - first Tuesday in month 9.30-10.30am.

Whitley Library (0118 901 5115)

Rhymetime Tuesdays 2.15-2.45pm, Thursdays 11.15-11.45am, Saturdays 10.30-11am. Storytime - Thursdays 2.152.45pm.

West Berkshire Libraries (www.westberks.gov.uk/libraries) Rhymetimes for 0-3 year olds and Storytimes for 3-5 years olds.

Burghfield Common Library (0118 983 3632) Rhymetime - Thursdays (term time only) 2.30-3pm.

Mortimer Library (0118 933 2882) Rhymetime - certain Tuesdays 2.302.50pm. Storytime - certain Fridays 2.152.45pm. Ring library for dates.

Newbury Library (01635 519 900) Rhymetime - Wednesdays 11-11.20am, first, third & fifth Tuesday in month 1111.20am. Storytime - Fridays 11-11.30am & 2-2.30pm, Saturdays 2.30-3pm.

Pangbourne Library (0118 984 4117) Rhymetime - fortnightly on Thursdays (term time only) 10-10.30am.

Thatcham Library (01635 866 049) Rhymetime - second Tuesday in month 1111.30am. Storytime - Mondays 2.15-2.45pm.

Theale Library (0118 930 3207) Rhymetime - Wednesdays 11-11.30am, Thursdays 2-2.30pm. Storytime - Fridays 11-11.20am.

Bracknell Libraries (www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/libraries) Bounce and Rhyme for babies and toddlers. Storytime for Under 5s.

Ascot Heath Library (01344 884 030) Crafts for children of all ages every Monday from 3pm and various Saturdays.

Please contact the library for details of the Saturday sessions.

Binfield Library (01344 306 663) Drop-in for pre-school children, parents and carers - Thursdays with refreshments from 9am, activities at 9.30am. First Thursday of the month a small craft activity is added 10-10.30am.

Birch Hill Library (01344 456 526) Storytime - Tuesdays 11am. Bounce and Rhyme - every other Tuesday 2.15pm.

Bracknell Central Library (01344

423 149) Children’s Tuesday Club – every other Tuesday, 10-11am with stories, bounce and rhyme, and crafts.

Crowthorne Library (01344 776 431) Bounce and Rhyme - Mondays & Tuesdays 9.30-10am. Storytime & craft - Wednesdays 9.30am. Both term time only. Monthly Baby Sensory Sessions Wednesdays 11-11.30am. Ring the library for details and to book.

Great Hollands Library (01344 424 095) Storytime - for 3-7yrs, Fridays 3.40pm.

Bounce and Rhyme - Fridays 11am.

Harmans Water Library (01344 423 660) Bounce and Rhyme - Mondays 1010.30am. After School Crafts - second & last Thursday in month 3.30-4.30pm.

Sandhurst Library (01252 870 161) Tots Time - for under 5’s with story, rhymes and simple crafts, Mondays 9.3010.15am. Bounce and Rhyme - second & fourth Friday in month 9.30am. Storytime - Thursdays 2.15pm, aimed at 3-5yr-olds.

Morning Tales - Thursdays 10am, quick stories for 2-3yr-olds.

Whitegrove Library (01344 424 211) Alphabet Club - activities, stories and rhymes for 3-4yrs, 50p per session, £3 per half term, Fridays (term time only) 2-2.30pm, booking required.

South Oxfordshire Libraries (www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/libraries)

Henley Library (01491 57 5278)

Rhymetime - for babies and toddlers, Tuesdays 9.30-10am.

Sonning Common Library (0118 972 2448) Rhymetime - for under 3’s, first & third Monday in month 10-10.30am. Storytime & colouring - for under 8’s, Saturdays 10-10.30am.

Events are subject to change so please check before setting out.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Early Years

Active Toddlers!

Despite the colder weather there are plenty of opportunities for little ones to keep busy.

Nurseries step up for more outdoor fun Countryside Nurseries are leading the way with innovative childcare.

The nurseries, in Henley, Cookham Dean, Windsor, Flackwell Heath, Ascot, Burnham and Sunninghill, have invested in a child safety product created by primary school teacher, Elaine Stephen MBE. Walkodile® (pictured with children from Countryside Nurseries) has won a string of awards including UK Invention of the Year and Nursery Innovation of the Year. Up to six children each wear a high visibility safety belt which links them via a two-way connector to a flexible central spine making outings more manageable for staff and the walk more relaxed and enjoyable for everyone.

Director of Childcare, Ingrid Howell said: “The Walkodile allows our staff to concentrate more on the learning experience for the children outside nursery.

We conduct full risk assessments prior to all outdoor activities and this helps to minimise most risk factors. This gives staff and parents much greater peace of mind, plus the children love going for walks”.

Go MAD at the MAD House!

MAD Academy run music and dance classes for babies and young children from 3 months to 4 years old. Classes include lots of singing, movement and dancing, musical instruments and plenty of lovely colourful equipment to dance, play and develop with.

A pay-as-you-go class runs at 10.15am on Fridays at The Mad House, Play and Party World, 240 S Oak Way, Reading RG2 6UL. You can combine the class with half price soft play for an entire morning of fun, sure to wear out your energetic little toddler. Saturday morning classes are also available for working parents.

See www.madacademy.com for a full timetable of all their classes.

Winter Fun at Jubilee

Discover what’s in Wokingham Borough Libraries

• Borrow children and teen books, eBooks, story CDs, eAudio and DVDs • Find out information with our non-fiction books and also free homework help with access to the online Encyclopaedia Britannica • Storytelling, Rhymetime, Crafts and Book groups for all ages, along with special author events and more

It’s free to join too!

www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries Wokinghamboroughlibraries

@WBC_Libraries

Winter is a very special time at Jubilee Day Nursery, Padworth. The children love to wrap up warm and explore their beautiful rural surroundings. A wide range of outdoor facilities encourages little ones to connect with nature, get active and enjoy being in the fresh air, all the while learning about the world around them. Animals are a big part of Jubilee with donkeys, chickens, goats and even a couple of pigs to feed whatever the weather. The children even help break the ice when the duck pond gets frozen!

The outdoor environments are used daily, to encourage natural curiosity and exploration and, of course, for fun! And there’s also a beautiful woodland area where children can have so many adventures - climbing on logs and trees, searching out frozen cobwebs, building dens, collecting ‘treasures’ and much more. In winter the campfire is lit and the woods come alive with carols and a special visit from Father Christmas!

To find out more visit www. jubileedaynursery.co.uk and www.jubileegems.co.uk

Ideas for days out at www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson

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For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy Earley, Woodley, Caversham, Burghfield, Purley and Arborfield

Call Trish on 01189 77 0050 trish.nawacki@madacademy.com Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley, Charvil and Twyford

Birthday Parties too!

Call Emma on 0118 979 2695 emma.lelliott@madacademy.com

Movement • rhythms • songs • instruments • games

madacademy.com

Fun for Babes & Tots In the second part of our clubs and classes directory we turn our attention to the Under 5s. We’ve included some of our favourite activities below including details of local toy libraries, but you’ll find lots more online at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes

Gym, Sports & Swimming

Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

Swimkidz - swimming classes for bumps and beyond across Berkshire. 0118 983 6130/ 07825 955 533, sharky@ swimkidz.co.uk, www.swimkidz.co.uk

Lots more activities for babies and toddlers at www.familiestvw. co.uk/classes

Babies Go Swimming - specialised underwater swimming classes. Babies can begin anytime from 6 weeks old. Children who have experienced other underwater swimming classes are also welcome.

Classes are held during the week and at weekends in a range of private warm pools throughout the area.

The course fee is £114.50 for nine half hour classes with a free set of digital underwater photos. Just quote ‘Families’ when booking. Fully qualified ASA instructors.

0118 989 0543, info@babiesgoswimming.com, www.babiesgoswimming.com Baby Swimming - swimming for babies 10 weeks -

12 months in Sonning Common, Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading and Abingdon. 020 3176 5666, www.babyswimming.co.uk

Tumble Tots - agility, balance, climbing and coordination activities with action songs. Gymbabes for 6+mths to walking, Tumble Tots for walking to school age and Gymbobs for school-age to 7yrs. Classes in Reading, Wokingham, Winnersh, Woodley and Finchampstead.

0118 973 6711, www.tumbletots.com/reading Turtle Tots - Specialist baby and toddler swimming classes

and aqua-natal yoga classes. Running weekly at lovely warm pools in and around Reading. Come out of your shell and learn to swim the Turtle Tots way! Please contact suzi. trafford@turtletots.com 07810 864 810 www.turtletots.com

Water Babies - teaching babies from a few weeks old confidence and safety in Burghfield Common, Bracknell, Reading, Wokingham, Slough, Maidenhead and Basingstoke. 01256 844 926, www.waterbabies.co.uk

Bulmershe Gymnastics Club - based at a purpose-

built gym in Woodley, run gymnastics classes for all ages including Leap Frogs for 0-5yrs led by qualified coaches on weekdays and Saturdays. 0118 926 3686, kay.mccallum@ bulmershegymnastics.co.uk, www.bulmershegymnastics.co.uk

inas r e l l a B

GR Swimming Schools - children’s swimming lessons from 3yrs in Newbury/Thatcham area teaching Beginners, Improvers and Club level swimmers, also snorkelling and diving during the holidays. 6 children per teacher, structured lessons, ASA award scheme. 01635 201 410, www.swimlessons.co.uk

Baby Dancercise is a fun, dynamic and action packed class for children between the ages of 2 ½ and 4 years old.

We hold classes at the following venues: The Guild Hall, High Street, High Wycombe The Ground Floor Youth Provision, Hamilton Road, Reading Pearson Hall, Pearson Road, Sonning-on-Thames Amersham Road Community Centre, Amersham Road, Caversham

To book your FREE TRIAL please call

07743 398 844

or email: dancercise@live.com Please visit our website for full details www.dancerciseuk.com

WILLY WONKA __PARTIES Ages 3+ t: 0118 933 3791 or 07721 565898 w:berkshire.stageability.co.uk E: jackie@berkshire.stageability.co.uk

PAGE 14

Thames Valley West

Kick-a-Bout - weekly after-school football classes for 3-10yrs in Newbury with the focus on building confidence and skill in a supportive, fun, friendly environment. 07796 520 506, www.kick-a-bout.com Kiddikicks Football Classes - football themed and football skills classes for 18 months-7yrs, including match play from 4/5+yrs. Classes are held on Sunday mornings at Jennett’s Park Community Centre in Bracknell and incorporate Early Years Learning Goals, great preparation for nursery including colour, number and shape recognition. 020 7937 7965, www.kiddikicks.co.uk

Tumble Tots

Developmental Classes (See also our Music & Movement section)

Baby College - fun, multi-sensory, baby/child

development classes from birth to 3yrs in Wokingham, Woodley, Lower Earley, Reading and Finchampstead (0118 979 8549) and in Bracknell (01344 885 146), www.babycollege.co.uk

Baby Sensations - a small independent Berkshire Montessori Parent and Toddler Sessions

- weekly developmental programme specifically designed for toddlers and their parents. Montessori activities for 18 mths-2½ yrs at Meadowbrook Montessori School, Warfield. 01344 890 869 www.meadowbrookmontessori.org

company offering Baby Massage classes and Sensory sessions for babies. info@babysensations.co.uk, 0773 856 66 46, www.babysensations.co.uk

Play Cantonese - a free Cantonese playgroup for children

running every other Saturday (3-4pm) at Reading Central Library. Learn Cantonese through song, stories and play. Any family with children from 0-5, learning or speaking Cantonese, will enjoy these sessions. berkshire@playcantonese.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Early Years

Dance & Drama All Stars Theatre Academy

- ballet, tap, modern, street jazz, gymnastic dance, drama and singing.

Classes start from just £3.50 per week.

Branches in Burghfield Common, Lower Earley, Mortimer, Silchester, Tadley, Thatcham and Theale.

Beginners to professional. 0118 986 8000, info@allstardance.co.uk, www.allstardance.co.uk

Dramatix Productions - fun and innovative drama workshops involving improvisation, mini plays, characterisation, confidence building, teamwork, mime and more. Costs are £4-6 per week. Little performers aged 4-6, Junior drama 7-11, and Senior drama 11-18. Classes at Moulsford, Shinfield, Purley and Earley. Book a free trial. 07886 918 492, enquiries@ dramatixproductions.co.uk Dance Arts Academy - ISTD Ballet, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Street Dance and Musical Theatre for 2+yrs in Sonning Common, Emmer Green, Caversham, Wokingham, Bracknell and Burnham. Plus Disco Duck pre-school classes and new Adult Jazz-Fit. First class free. 07985 535 357, Email: catherine@danceartsacademy.co.uk

Diddi Dance - funky pre-school

dance classes for girls and boys. With over 10 years’ experience Diddi Dance is the market leader in dedicated toddler dance classes exploring 14 different styles. Improves gross motor skills, rhythm, co-ordination, confidence, creativity and social skills with dancing games, fun exercises, action songs and a host of props. Lesson plans designed to complement and enhance the EYFS. Nursery workshops and parties too!

Free trial available. 07719 87 87 89, andrea.bickford@diddidance.com, www.diddidance.com

Dancercise - baby classes, ballet, contemporary, musical theatre, street jazz, hip hop, tap, Zumba. Adults and children from 2½+yrs. Baby Ballerina classes for 2½4yrs in Caversham, East Reading, Sonning and High Wycombe. 0774 339 8844, www.dancerciseuk.com Dance Reality Studios - professional dance studios in Tilehurst offering dance classes to adults and children. See their website for their full range of classes and services. 0118 942 1896, www.dancerealitystudios.co.uk Dramatix Productions - NEW Musical Theatre and singing classes in Earley.

Classes run at Our Lady of Peace Halls, Wokingham Road, Earley on Fridays!

Junior class: 4-4.30pm (age 7-11) Little perfomers class: 4.30-5pm (age 4-6) and Senior class: 5-5.30pm (age 11-18). To book a free trial contact 07886 918 492 or enquiries@dramatixproductions.co.uk

Dance at South Hill Park

Shiney Tots - for toddlers age

1-4yrs old. 45mins designed to stimulate children’s imaginations through interactive story telling, drama games and popular nursery rhymes.

It’s a lovely way to bond with your toddler through play and make believe. Shine helps develop language, communication and social skills. We encourage children to express themselves confidently and effectively.

To book your child a place please contact us: 07912 289 777 info@shineperformingarts.co.uk, www.shineperformingarts.co.uk

JG Dance and Theatre College classes from 2½+yrs in ballet, jazz, tap, limbering, drama and singing. Twice yearly theatre performances. Free trial lesson available. Classes held in Marlow, Bourne End, Twyford, Caversham, Woodley, Tilehurst, Henley and Basingstoke. 01491 572 000, info@jgdance.co.uk, www.jgdance.co.uk Perform (TVW area) - drama, dance and singing-based workshops for 4-8yrs, plus lots of holiday courses. A mixture of confidence-building games, energetic

dances and catchy songs held in Newbury, Pangbourne, Twyford, Caversham, Wokingham, Henley and Crowthorne.

0845 400 1283, www.perform.org.uk Razzamataz Theatre School - as well as classes for older children, Razzamataz offers Minis classes for 4-5yrs every Saturday at Emmbrook Senior School, Wokingham and on Fridays 4-5pm at Waingels College, Woodley. 07970 034 488, www.razzamataz.co.uk SJ Dance and Fitness - Zumba classes for children aged 3+yrs and adults in the Twyford area. Zumba for Kids is a fun, active based programme that uses childfriendly routines to energy boosting music, come and join the party. 07776 303 493, www.sjdanceandfitness.co.uk South Hill Park Arts Centre - in Bracknell offers a variety of dance courses including Twinkle Tots Ballet for 2-4yrs and Budding Ballerinas for 4-5yrs. 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts School dance, drama and singing classes for 4-18yrs that build confidence and teach skills.

Early Years classes for 4-6yrs designed to introduce young children to the performing arts. Local branches are: Bracknell (0800 707 6684); Bracknell North (0800 915 0199); Henley & Marlow (01494 533 203); Maidenhead (0118 942 3038); Newbury (0870 061 3526); Reading East (01932 348 844); Reading West (0844 800 9482); Reading North (0118 911 1135); and.Wokingham (0118 371 2998). www.stagecoach.co.uk

Playcentre Fun Clothes by www.pandaandthesparrow.co.uk

Eddie Catz Newbury - a wide variety of regular classes for Under 5s run at this play centre in central Newbury. These include Skills 4 All Sports multi-sport sessions for 1½-5yrs; Monkey Music fun music activities for little ones from 3 months to 4yrs; Sing & Sign baby signing classes from 0-24 months; The Creation Station arty fun for 1½-5yrs; Skills 4 Footy sessions; and Crafternoons, a new class for Mums and babies where Mums make and create fun things. All classes include a play in Eddie Catz before or after each session and most offer free taster sessions.

View individual class details on the Eddie Catz website. www.eddiecatz.com

Kids’n’Action Play & Party Centre

- alongside the usual fun at this Winnersh Triangle play centre, Toddler Fun runs every weekday during term-time at 11am and 1pm (15 minutes each session).

There’s Story time on Mondays and Thursdays, Music and movement on Tuesdays, Fun and games on Wednesdays and Aerobics and dance on Fridays.

Activities are for 1-5yrs and are included in the entrance price. 0118 968 0983, www.kids-n-action.com

Award winning music classes for babies & young children NEWBURY,

H UNGERFORD

&

H ENLEY

T:

01635

860959

E:

newbury.henley@monkeymusic.co.uk

Hundreds more clubs & classes at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes

Thames Valley West

PAGE 15

Early Years

Story, Film & Crafts Tales for Tots at Reading Museum story time for the Under 5’s using objects from Reading Museum collection, every Wednesday, 10.30-11.30am, free drop-in. 0118 937 3400, www.readingmuseum.org.uk Taylor Tug’s Under Five’s Club -

The Regal Picturehouse Cinema -

creative activity sessions for parents to enjoy with their children. Led by a trained teacher, sessions include craft, stories and song. Wednesdays, term time, at the River & Rowing Museum, Henley. 01491 415 605, www.rrm.co.uk

this popular Henley cinema runs the Big Scream Club every Friday at 11am exclusively for parents with babies under one year old. Lights are left on low and nappy changing facilities are available. Membership is free and thereafter tickets for the latest releases are £8.00 (£9.30 for 3D films). For preschool children, Toddler Time offers special 30-minute shows at 11am every Tuesday designed to introduce little ones to the big screen.

Membership is free and it then costs just £3 for a child. Accompanying adult goes free. 0871 902 5738, www.picturehouses.co.uk/Henley

Toy Libraries

MAD Academy fun

Lend and Play Toy Library, Ambleside

Music & Movement Hartbeeps - original multi-sensory

music classes using song play, lighting effects, innovative props and puppetry.

Classes, suitable from birth to 4yrs, run in Newbury, Henley, Bracknell, Wokingham, Pinewood and Woodley.

01628 639 727/ 07985 935 662, www.hartbeeps.com

Jo Jingles - fun and educational

music, singing and movement classes for 3mths-5yrs that can help develop social skills, confidence, co-ordination and language. All Jo Jingles programmes encompass the Early Years Foundation Stage goals. Classes at Whoosh (Bracknell Leisure Centre); Carnation Hall, Winkfield Row; and Community Centre, Jennett’s Park. Jackie 01344 484 473, www.jojingles.com/ascot

Kindermusik with Sarah - quality and fun music and movement classes from birth to 7yrs in Reading. Free taster class and fantastic activities and downloads to take home too! 07981 756 820, info@kindermusikwithsarah.co.uk, www.kindermusikwithsarah.co.uk

Toddler Time at MERL - The Museum of English Rural Life runs popular Friday drop-in sessions, 10am-11am, term-time, for parents with toddlers aged 2-4yrs. £2 per child. Rhymes, songs and craft activities based on objects in the museum or garden.

The Museum is temporarily closed so Toddler Time will take place only on the 1st Friday of the month and at The Pop Up in the Learning Hub, Building 24 on the London Road Campus, (Park, pay and meet at MERL).

0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl

MAD Academy - high-energy music, dance, movement and developmental games for children aged 3months-4 yrs in Maidenhead, Twyford and Henley (0118 979 2695); Reading, Earley, Woodley, Burghfield, Arborfield, Purley & Caversham (0118 977 0050); see the website www.madacademy.com for more details.

Monkey Music - fun music classes

from 3mths-4yrs with action songs and rhymes, music and movement, percussion instruments and musical games. Classes in Newbury, Thatcham, Bradfield, Mortimer, Hungerford and Henley. 01635 860 959, www.monkeymusic.co.uk

Musical Minis Berkshire - the preschool fun time music group for babies and toddlers. Each structured session encourages cognitive, physical and emotional development through the use of music, instruments and stories in a relaxed group atmosphere. New to the area. Call Sara on 0118 977 6407, www.musicalminis.co.uk

Centre, Ambleside Close, Woodley, RG5 4JJ When: Open Tues 10am-12.30pm, Wed 2.308pm, Thur 8.30-10.30am and 2nd Sat in month 10am-12noon.

The Lend and Play Toy Library offers regular access to a large and diverse range of play experiences for parents, grandparents, childminders, playgroups and Children’s Centres. It’s great for parties too with large play equipment and toys, including tents and tunnels, ball pools, Happy Hopperz, roller coasters, cozy coupes and soft play equipment, available to hire for a week.

Smaller toys and play equipment can be borrowed for even longer. And up-to-date electronic toys will be stocked soon thanks to a grant from Woodley Town Council.

0118 377 6429, lend.play@gmail.com, www.lendandplay.org.uk

Burghfield Toy Library, Burghfield

Children’s Centre, Jordans Lane, Burghfield Common, RG7 3LP When: Held every second and fourth Thursday of the month, 10-11.30am.

A wide range of fun and educational toys available to borrow suitable from birth up to 7 years. Loan prices for the month vary from 25p to £1 for lifetime membership (proof of a WBC address required). 0118 983 1866

Reading Toy Library, Southcote Library, Southcote Lane, Reading RG30 3BA

When: open Tue 9.30am-12pm, Thur 2-5pm, Sat 9.30-11am and 2-3.30pm.

Toy Library members can choose and borrow toys at the Toy Library when it is open. The smaller toys can also be requested from the online catalogue and collected from any Reading library a few days later. Annual membership costs just £5 for parents and carers, with toys from 50p to £3 for a three-week loan.

Childminders, playgroups, nurseries and schools can join too and baby equipment is also available to hire. www.readinglibraries.org.uk or ask in any Reading library

Tick Tock Toy Library, Calcot, Theale and

Area Children’s Centre, Calcot Infant School, Curtis Rd, Calcot, Reading, RG31 4XG When: every Thurs, 9-11am A large selection of indoor and outdoor toys suitable for 0-8 years plus baby toys and equipment. Children can play while you enjoy coffee and a chat. Membership cost £5 per year and up to four toys costing £1 can be borrowed for up to 4 weeks. 0118 945 6157

Toy box Toy Library, Owlsmoor Community Centre, Sandhurst When: every Wed, 9.30-11.15am.

This voluntary group has an annual membership of £5 which allows toys to be hired out.

Sessions include drinks and biscuits with an entrance fee of £2 per family for non-members, £1.80 for members. 07842 259 100, the.toy.box@btinternet.com

K E E P O N DA N C I N G !

Making Music Magic!

For babies & pre-schoolers

WITH SHOES AND DANCEWEAR FROM DANCIA INTERNATIONAL

BERKSHIRE’S PREMIER DANCE SHOPS

• Ballet, Tap & Jazz Shoes • Dance School Uniforms • Ballroom & Latin Shoes • Gymnastics Leotards 36 - 38 PROSPECT STREET, CAVERSHAM, RG 4 8 JL Tel: 0118 9478123

235 HIGH STREET,

CROWTHORNE, RG 45

www.dancia.co.uk/reading

www.dancia.co.uk/crowthorne

Tel:

01344 2868864

Mon-Fri: 10am-5:30pm. Sat: 9:30am-5pm

PAGE 16

Thames Valley West

7 AH

Crowthorne Branch

NOW OPEN!

Bracknell, Wokingham & Crowthorne Contact Liz 07985 935662, liz@hartbeeps.com Henley Contact Anna 07887 571375, anna@hartbeeps.com

www.hartbeeps.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Early Years

What are Wonder Weeks?

Have you ever wondered what’s going on in your baby’s head?

Infant development expert Frans Plooij may have the answer.

Why does a normally well-tempered baby suddenly become difficult and demanding? No, it’s not cramps or teething, it’s a wonder week!

When this phase is over, your baby will be doing things he could not do before. Wonder weeks are key developmental leaps in every baby’s life. They influence the rest of a child’s life.

To help parents here are five golden tips: 1. Stop doubting yourself or your baby. All babies go through ten wonder weeks during their first twenty months of life. Every wonder week consists of three phases: the fussy phase, the week of wonders (in which he is happy again and suddenly does a lot of new things), and the practice period. The fussy phase is the phase in which parents start doubting themselves, or even worse, their baby. The truth is there is nothing wrong with either you or your baby. Remember: the fussy behaviour is actually a sign of a gigantic leap forward.

4. Don’t see the fussy phase as a carte blanche to stop parenting. These wonder weeks will start and end without any interference from you. However, this does not mean you should just wait for them to pass.

You should really help your baby, be there for your baby and show him he can rely on you.

He’s going through a hard time and needs your help and love.

5. Try to see the world through your baby’s eyes! Knowing what your baby perceives in each leap means you can help him, but it’s also a lot of fun. For instance, during the leap of patterns (at 8 weeks), your baby loves observing patterns. So these kinds of trousers will be a visual treat!

Does he move a bit like Pinocchio? That’s because his body is now able to move in patterns. The ‘ah ah oh oh’ sounds he now makes? Patterns with his vocal cords!

Next up is the leap of smooth transitions. Try following a moving object with your eyes and feel how your eyes are making a smooth movement. Your baby is now able to do this for the first time in his life.

It’s so much fun to see the world through your baby’s eyes and, if you know what to look for in each wonder week, you’ll identify more of the special things your baby does and be much better equipped to help him.

2. Know when the leap starts and when it ends. The good news is you can calculate pretty accurately when your baby will be making a leap. The leaps are based on the baby’s due date. Not the date of birth.

3. Inform yourself about the leap. This is really the most important thing to do. If you know what your baby is looking for in a particular leap you can make the fussy phase shorter and sweeter. There are great advantages for your baby if you know how to help him through each leap. In the short run he will be comforted and soothed better. A parent who is able to really understand what a baby is going through and what he wants to discover in that particular wonder week, is helping him to build up self-confidence, happiness and from a developmental point of view: stimulating the brain in the right way.

against the light sky. After the second leap he looks at the patterns in your face: your eyes, mouth and your hairline.

Do you know why a baby now starts to look at your eyes and mouth, and before only at the outside of your head? Before this leap he could only really perceive contrasts. So he would look at the contrasts of your face Frans Plooij has written The Wonder Weeks. How to stimulate your baby’s mental development and help him turn his 10 predictable, great, fussy phases into magical leaps forward which describes in easy-to-understand terms the incredible developmental changes that all babies go through. Available at Amazon, Waterstones and your local bookstore.

Specialist Baby & Toddler Swimming Classes Aqua-Natal Yoga Classes

Britain’s leading physical play programme for babies and children from 6 months to 7 years

Come out of your shell and learn to swim the Turtle Tots Way! Tel: 07810 864810 Email: suzi.trafford@turtletots.com www.turtletots.com

FREE TRIAL SESSIONS AVAILABLE Contact Helen Davey for more details 0118 973 6711 helen.davey@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/reading

Need help choosing a dance class - see www.familiestvw.co.uk/dancetypes

Thames Valley West

PAGE 17

What‘s On

We take great care in compiling these listings but please always contact the venue in advance to check details are correct.

Diary Dates Ongoing Events Weekly – BIG SCREAM, TODDLER TIME & KIDS’ CLUBS at The Regal Picturehouse, Henley, RG9 2BZ, 0871 902 5738, www.picturehouses.co.uk/Henley Big Scream Club runs on Fridays at 11am exclusively for parents with babies under 1yr so you can catch the latest film releases. For pre-school children Toddler Time on Tuesdays at 11am offers special 30-minute shows designed to introduce little ones to the big screen. For the older ones there’s Kids’ Club every Saturday showing a classic film at 11am plus prescreening activities.

Until 4 Jan – STARLAB at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 400, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ thelookoutdiscoverycentre Held at weekends and school holidays, this show is back by popular demand. There is a choice of two journeys through space in the Centre’s inflatable planetarium: Space Stories, aimed at 3-7yrs, features Ernest the Bear as he visits the moon and discovers stars and planets along the way with shows at 11am, 12 noon and 3.15pm; and Exploring the Solar System for 7+yrs at 2pm. Shows cost £1.85 plus normal entrance fee. The Look Out is closed 24-26 Dec.

November 3-29 Nov – PENGUIN STORIES & CRAFTS at various Wokingham libraries, www.wokingham.gov.uk/ libraries/events Little Explorers Penguin Spectacular with penguin stories, rhymes and crafts for under 5s, just drop in. £1.50 charge.

3 Nov Lower Earley Library 10.15-11am; 12 Nov Winnersh Library 10.15am -11am; 14 Nov Wargrave Library 2-2.45pm; 18 Nov Finchampstead Library 2-2.45pm; 19 Nov Woodley Library 10.15-11am; 26 Nov Wokingham Library 10.15-11am; 27 Nov Spencers Wood Library 10.15-11am; 28 Nov Twyford Library 10.30-11.15am; 29 Nov Maiden Erlegh Library 11-11.45am.

4-20 Nov – POTTERY PALS at various Wokingham libraries, www. wokingham.gov.uk/libraries/events Make unique gifts for Christmas. £4 plus cost of pottery item. Please call to book a place.

4 Nov Wokingham Library 10am-12.30pm; 11 Nov Woodley Library 10am-12.30pm; 14 Nov Finchampstead Library 10.30-11.30am; 18 Nov Lower Earley Library 10am-12noon; 20 Nov Spencers Wood Library 2.30-3.30pm.

5 Nov – CHIEVELEY FIREWORKS AND BONFIRE at Chieveley

Recreation Ground, RG20 8TE Gates open at 6.15pm with the bonfire lit at 7.15pm and fireworks from 7.45pm.

Advance tickets: family £13.50, single £4.

Cash only available from Chieveley Village Stores, Hermitage Village Stores, Cold Ash Village Stores. On gate: family £18, single £5 (cash only). No personal fireworks permitted.

7 Nov – MERL TODDLER TIME ON THE MOVE meet at The Museum of

English Rural Life, University of Reading, Redlands Rd, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.reading. ac.uk/merl/whatson/merl-whatson.aspx Enjoy songs, stories and activities based on the countryside. 10-11am. For families with children 2-4yrs. £2, drop in. N.B. Due to MERL’s closure this event will take place at The Pop Up in the Learning Hub, Building 24 on the London Road Campus but park and meet at MERL.

8 Nov – WOKINGHAM CHARITY FIREWORKS at Cantley Field,

Wokingham, www.wokinghamfireworks.co.uk The fun starts at 6pm when a torchlight procession leaves from the town centre led

by St Sebastian’s band. At Cantley Field there will be a funfair and Heart Radio will be providing music and commentary. The fireworks start at 7.30pm followed by a big bonfire with a current (but secret!) theme. Advance entrance programmes cost £4 (£6 on the day), Under 8s free.

8 Nov – PANGBOURNE FIREWORK FIESTA at Pangbourne Primary School, Kennedy Drive, Pangbourne, RG8 7LB The Friends of Pangbourne Primary School will be hosting their popular Firework Fiesta with a huge bonfire, firework display, BBQ and bar, with plenty of fun for all the family. Gates open at 5.30pm.

Tickets will be available online from www. fopps.org.uk via the primary school or a few local shops. £7.50 per person (12+yrs) in advance or £10 on the gate. Free entry for under 12s accompanied by an adult.

9 Nov – THE MAGIC WORD at Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley, RG9 2BP, 01491 575 698, www.kentontheatre.co.uk A classical ballet for children about the beautiful Forest Queen who lives in a magical forest. She is rather spoilt and does not know how to ask for something nicely but once she learns ‘The Magic Word’, she discovers the beauty of sharing and the joys of true friendship. Children will be enchanted by the magical dancers, stunning costumes and clear story-telling. With

Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre Experience and Education through Birds of Prey

Birthday Parties Junior Falconry Days Educational Owl Hours Gift Vouchers Available

Santa at Odds Farm Park, 22 Nov-24 Dec themes of kindness, good manners and friendship, this heart-warming tale is suitable for all ages, especially 3-9 year olds.

12-13 Nov – TODDLER DAYS: LITTLE STARS at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 400, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ thelookoutdiscoverycentre Themed activities for toddlers including face or hand painting, art and craft activities and story-telling. Admission also includes entrance to the hands-on science and nature exhibition. 10am-4pm. £6.65 per adult and toddler, £1.50 per additional toddler (max 3 per adult).

15 Nov – CRAFT & DESIGN FAIR at South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk Enjoy and explore some of the UK’s best handmade crafts and buy directly from the artists and makers. Pop into the Wilde Theatre to see the Aladdin panto set take shape.11am-6pm. Free entry.

15 Nov – CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR in central Reading,

www.broadstreetmall.com, www.theoracle.com There is entertainment in Broad Street Mall throughout the day with the Mall lights being turned on at 4pm by no less than three celebrities, one of whom will be performing live at 3.15pm. Instead of Santa’s Grotto this year there will be a competition with Jack FM called ‘Take a S’elfie with Santa’. Santa and his elf will be roaming around the centre every Saturday from the 22 Nov-20 Dec giving people the opportunity to take a s’elfie with him.

At The Oracle Riverside there will be a high-energy firework display starting at 7pm. To gain entry to the Riverside, spectators will need a wristband available from The Oracle Information Desk on 8 & 9 Nov. Wristbands will be issued on a first come, first served basis. The evening will also see the switching on of The Oracle’s stunning Christmas decorations.

Country Lives Wartime Christmas Party Sunday 14th December

• 2.30-4pm • £3 per child • Booking required Find out what Christmas was like for children during the First World War!

Contact us

For details and to book, call 0118 378 8660, email merlevents@reading.ac.uk or visit www.reading.ac.uk/merl

Open to the public, based in Ladds Garden Village, Twyford

www.feathersandfur.co.uk PAGE 18

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

What‘s On

Mr Toad’s Christmas Sat 13 Dec, 10.30am – 4pm

Follow the festive trail at Cliveden, weekends in Dec 20 Nov – TWILIGHT MARKET at Ashridge Nursery, Ashridge Rd, Wokingham, RG40 1PG, www.ashridgenursery.co.uk This annual event is the perfect chance to do a spot of Christmas shopping in a relaxed atmosphere. Small local businesses will be offering a great selection of crafts and gifts not available on the high street.

Refreshments available as well as a raffle.

7.30-9.30pm. Entry £1.

21 Nov – HENLEY LATE NIGHT SHOPPING EVENT in Henley town centre, www.henleytowncouncil.gov.uk This new event will see shops remain open until 9pm and a festive atmosphere with illuminations and local choirs and performers. There will be special promotions and refreshments to kick-off the Christmas shopping season.

21-22 Nov – WOKINGHAM CHARITY CHRISTMAS MARKET

at the Town Hall, Mkt Place, Wokingham, RG40 1AS, www.Wokingham-tc.gov.uk An opportunity to do some Xmas shopping whilst supporting local charities who will be selling a wide-range of gifts for all ages. 10am-4pm.

22 Nov & 7 Dec – AUTHOR VISIT: CATHY MACLENNAN at Wokingham & Woodley Libraries, www. wokingham.gov.uk/libraries/events Cathy will read her new festive picture book When when when, will it be Christmas? and copies will be available to purchase and have signed. Don’t forget to bring your Santa hat with you. For families with under 9s.

22 Nov Wokingham Library 10.30-11.15am; 7 Dec Woodley Library 1pm-1.30pm (part of Woodley Extravaganza).

22 Nov-24 Dec – CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE at Beale Park, Lower

Basildon, Reading, RG8 9NW, 0844 826 1761, www.christmas-adventure.co.uk Enjoy a magical adventure in the beautiful surroundings of Beale Park. Running on selected dates. See page 27 for more details.

22 Nov-24 Dec – CHRI2STMAS FAMILY FUN at Odds Farm Park,

near Wooburn Common, 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk Visit Santa on 22-23 Nov and daily from 29 Nov plus festive entertainers and a special treat. See more on page 26.

• Enter our competition on page 23.

23 Nov – RECYCLED ARTS WORKSHOP at The Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Drop in throughout the day to make a bouncy spider from natural materials with ingenious recycler Jill Nicholas. 11am4pm. £1 per item.

29 Nov – CHRISTMAS FAIR at Kidmore End Primary School, Kidmore End, RG4 9AU Attractions include Santa in his grotto, a gingerbread decorating room, locally made decorations and gifts to buy, a silent auction and grand raffle. 12 noon3pm. Admission £2, children free.

Help decorate Toad Hall for Christmas and celebrate the festive season with presents, songs and fun!

Winter fun for the whole family. £3 per child (for present) +Museum admission.

rrm.co.uk

29 Nov – THE TWELVE LABOURS OF HERAKLES at The Ure Museum Of

Greek Archaeology, University of Reading, RG6 6AA, 0118 378 6990, www.reading.ac.uk/Ure/info/events.php Listen to the wonderful stories of the 12 incredible labours of Herakles and have a look at some of the scariest monsters you will ever see. Explore the Museum in search of the mythical hero and be inspired for a legendary craft activity.

For accompanied children 6+yrs, 2-4pm. £3 per child, please book.

Labours 7-12 are covered.

29 Nov – WOODLEY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON in Woodley shopping centre, 0118 921 6920, www.woodleytowncentre.co.uk A Carol Concert and Christmas Lights Switch On. 4.30-5.30pm. See website for further details.

Every weekend from 29 Nov-21 Dec –

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS TO MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS at

Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, OX11 7NJ, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk Enjoy a Thomas-themed day out and ride behind Thomas to visit Father Christmas in his grotto. For more details see page 26.

29 Nov-6 Jan – COUNTRY HOUSE CHRISTMAS at Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, RG8 9NR, 0844 249 1895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ basildonpark The house will be beautifully decorated for a traditional country house Christmas celebration. Children can explore the Christmas trail around the grounds for an additional £2. On Boxing Day join a guided walk around the parkland at 11am. Normal admission charges apply.

Find lots more firework displays at www.familiestvw.co.uk/fireworks

Thames Valley West

PAGE 19

What‘s On 30 Nov – WOKINGHAM WINTER CARNIVAL in Wokingham town centre, www.wintercarnival.org.uk A fun-packed day held in the town centre streets. This year the theme is the ‘Magic of the Movies’ and attractions include fun fair rides, over 100 food, craft and charity stalls and non-stop free entertainment including a magic show, Punch & Judy, comedy jugglers, clowns and other special entertainers. Santa’s Grotto will be open from 11am-3pm in Wokingham Library where you can also listen to live music and meet Elsa from Frozen at 12.30, 1.30 & 2.30pm. The highlight of the day is the carnival procession which winds its way through the town from 4pm. The day closes with the switching on of the Christmas tree lights and a short carol service in Market Place. 11am-5.30pm. Free entry.

6-7 Dec – FATHER CHRISTMAS PARADE through Newbury and at the

Kennet Centre, Newbury, RG14 5EN, www.kennetshopping.co.uk/events The Coniston Flyer train will be in town on 6 Dec to take Father Christmas on a ride through Northbrook Street, around the Market Place and back up Bartholomew Street, to arrive at the Kennet Centre. Here he will meet children throughout the weekend (age limit 10yrs). There will also be free face painting and entertainment.

6, 7, 13 & 20 Dec – SANTA CRUISES at Hobbs of Henley, 01491 572 035, www.hobbsofhenley.com River trips aboard The New Orleans with a visit and present from Santa, family entertainment from Fred in the Shed and refreshments. For more details see page 26.

6, 13 & 20 Dec – BRACKNELL XMAS ACTIVITIES in Bracknell town centre, www.bracknell.com On Saturdays in the run-up to Xmas the Land Train will be in Bracknell town centre to transport shoppers from one end of the town to the other. Free Elf Academy craft workshops for children will also be running upstairs from 11am-4pm, with a chance to make a different craft each week and receive a stamp. Collect all three to become a certified Elf.

30 Nov – BRACKNELL XMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON in Bracknell town centre, www.bracknell.com Peppa Pig will be in Charles Square from 10am-4pm. Free to attend, but please be advised that queueing is very likely. The lights switch on will be hosted by Heart Radio’s Toby Anstis with special guests! Princess Square lights will be switched on at 4.30pm and Charles Square at 5.10pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks display from Star Fireworks. See website for more information.

30 Nov – NEWBURY XMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON in Newbury town centre, www.visitnewbury.org.uk An all-day event full of frivolous festivities.

Rumour has it that even Santa himself will be there, joining in with the parade which starts at 5.15pm. Live music throughout the day and stalls selling Christmas gifts and hot food. The Christmas lights will be switched on at 6.30pm. More details on the website.

30 Nov – FAMILY WILDLIFE FUN: HIBERNATING ANIMALS at The

Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Drop in to the Nature Discovery Centre to find out about hibernating animals during this family activity. Make a hedgehog craft to take home. 2-4pm. £1 per child.

30 Nov-19 Dec – CHRISTMAS COIN HUNT at REME Museum of

Technology, Arborfield, Reading, RG2 9NH, 0118 976 3375, www.rememuseum.org.uk Hunt for the Christmas coins and tinsel hidden in the museum, a small prize for all entries and a big prize for the lucky winner! Suitable for children of all ages.

Free with admission.

December 1-23 Dec – CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES at Bucklebury Farm Park, Bucklebury, RG7 6RR, 0118 971 4002, www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Enjoy Christmas on the farm. 10am-5pm.

See Father Christmas in his grotto, meet the reindeer, enjoy games and quizzes and browse for Xmas gifts. Plus tractor rides, outdoor and indoor playgrounds and lots of animals to see. Santa will also be dropping in to special Xmas lunches in cosy Woody’s Café. Open to non-visitors, please pre-book on 0118 971 2033.

1-24 Dec – LIVING ADVENT CALENDAR around Henley town centre, www.livingadventcalendar.co.uk Each evening leading up to Christmas a variety of local performers will appear at a different venue at 6.15pm to bring seasonal cheer to Henley with a short live performance. Entertainment will range from music, dancing, drama, poetry, singing and more. For details of exact times and venues visit the website.

PAGE 20

Thames Valley West

6-7, 13-14 & 20-21 Dec – CHRISTMAS TRAIL at Cliveden, Taplow,

Maidenhead, SL6 0JA, 0844 249 1895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Father Christmas has left some little presents around Cliveden’s gardens. Follow his fun-packed festive activity trail. See page 27 for more details.

Christmas at The Vyne, from 1 Dec 1-24 Dec – WOKINGHAM LIVING ADVENT CALENDAR around

Wokingham town centre, www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk/advent Enjoy and celebrate this Christmas season with 24 performances over 24 days of advent bringing together local businesses, individuals, performers and charitable organisations to present a 15-minute performance from local talent at 6pm every day. The venue changes each evening, with two special events on: 3 Dec Dressing of the Christmas Tree at 6pm for around an hour, where local school children present handmade decorations to the Mayor for display on the town centre tree; and 21 Dec Live Nativity at approx. 4pm in Howard Palmer Gardens. Full details of each day’s events are available online.

1-31 Dec – CHRISTMAS at Greys Court, Rotherfield Greys, Henley, 01491 628 529, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ greyscourt Greys Court was the home of Sir Felix and Lady Brunner from 1937 and the intimate rooms still reflect the comfortable life they led there with their sons. Discover more about the Brunner's family and friends, including poets and politicians, artists and Archbishops, and the way they celebrated Christmas. Normal entrance fee applies.

1 Dec-6 Jan – CHRISTMAS at The Vyne, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL, 01256 883858, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne Feel festive as you walk around a family home decorated for Christmas. Begin with the stone gallery decorated for ‘the night before Christmas’, and move round the house to see Christmas morning, and the Dining Room laid out for Christmas lunch. Plus on 13-14 & 22-23 Dec children can make their own crackers (£3 charge) from 12noon-3pm. Normal admission fees apply.

3 Dec – EVENING CHRISTMAS FAIR at Highclere Castle, Newbury, RG20 9RN, 01635 253 210, www.highclerecastle.co.uk Visit Highclere Castle (TV’s Downton Abbey) for a unique shopping experience in support of Thames Valley Air Ambulance. 5.30-8pm. Tickets £35 to include glass of champagne, mince pies, carols and a tour. Pre-booked tickets only.

Visit website for details and to book.

5 Dec – MERL TODDLER TIME ON THE MOVE meet at The Museum of English Rural Life, University of Reading, Redlands Rd, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.reading. ac.uk/merl/whatson/merl-whatson.aspx See 7 Nov entry for details.

5 Dec – HENLEY CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL in Henley town centre, www.henleytowncouncil.gov.uk/ Henley-on-Christmas-2014.aspx This popular evening event should get you in the festive mood with a Christmas market, fairground rides, carol singing around the tree, Father Christmas in his grotto and the switching-on of the lights on the large Christmas tree. 5-9pm.

5 Dec – THATCHAM CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CELEBRATION in Thatcham Town Centre, 01635 863 592, www.thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk The stalls will be open at 5pm and the evening will include live entertainment on stage before the lights are turned on at 7pm. Visit Santa’s grotto, see the donkeys and enjoy the numerous charity stalls. Hot food and drinks available.

6 Dec – CHRISTMAS CREATIONS at The River and Rowing Museum, Henley, RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk Creative Christmas crafts: table or tree-top angels, folded stars, colourful caskets, fir-cone figures and running reindeer. For 4-11yrs with different activities suitable for different ages.

10.30am-12.30pm. £8.50, must book.

7 Dec – WOODLEY CHRISTMAS EXTRAVAGANZA in Woodley shopping centre, 0118 921 6920, www.woodleytowncentre.co.uk Enjoy the 18th Woodley Christmas Extravaganza with entertainment throughout the day for all the family, including Santa’s Grotto. Plus lots of charity, craft and trade stalls selling produce and gifts. See website for further details.

In Woodley Library there will be drop-in seasonal family crafts for 2-12yrs between 11am-3pm, £1 per craft; a Frozen singalong with Elsa from The Princess Portal, 11-11.30am, please pre-book; author Cathy MacLennan will be reading her new festive book 1-1.30pm; a quartet from Reading Symphony Orchestra will play 2-3pm; and refreshments will be available.

7 Dec – CHRISTMAS FAIR at Shaw House, Church Rd, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 519 804, www.shawhouse.org.uk Christmas crafts, carols and children’s parties with a visit from Santa. £1 entry, children free (includes admission to the house). 11am-4pm.

7 & 13 Dec – ‘FROZEN’ SING-ALONG at Wokingham & Woodley Libraries, www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries/events Meet Elsa from Frozen and enjoy a singalong. Limited places, so it’s essential to book. 7 Dec Woodley Library 11-11.30am (part of Woodley Extravaganza); 13 Dec Wokingham Library 10-10.30am.

9 Dec-4 Jan – READING WINTER ON ICE at Forbury Gardens, Reading, RG1 3EJ, 07768 857 857, www.readingwinteronice.com An ice rink, rides, stalls and Santa’s Grotto in the centre of Reading. See page 27 for more details.

11-12 Dec – TODDLER DAYS: CHRISTMAS at The Look Out

Discovery Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 400, www.bracknell-forest. gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre See 12-13 Nov entry for details.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

What‘s On 13 Dec – MR TOAD’S CHRISTMAS at The River & Rowing Museum, Henley, RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk Help decorate Toad Hall for Christmas and celebrate the festive season with presents, songs and fun! 10.30am-4pm, £3 per child in addition to museum entrance.

and 1.30pm. More advanced workshops, being held at 101 Outdoor Arts Creation Space, Greenham on 29 Nov, must be prebooked. See website for more details.

19 Dec – CHRISTMAS PARTY & SANTA VISIT at Eddie Catz Newbury,

RG14 7NF, 0203 475 5268, www.eddiecatz.com Enjoy a winter wonderland party with lots of fun filled activities such as dancing, games and competitions with prizes.

Dance with ‘Eddie Claus’ and have your photo taken with Santa in his grotto. For ages 2-10yrs and their families. 5.307.30pm. Tickets: child £11, (includes entertainment, gift from Santa and a child’s meal and drink), adult £1. Book early for this popular event.

14 Dec – COUNTRY LIVES WARTIME CHRISTMAS PARTY at The Museum

of English Rural Life, Redlands Rd, Reading, RG1 5EX, 0118 378 8660, www.reading.ac.uk/merl Experience what Christmas was like during the First World War. Meet a land army girl, a nurse, a farmer and other characters from the period and they will tell you what Christmas was like during the First World War and how life had changed for them.

There will be a children’s activity and festive refreshments, along with entertainment drawn from the Special Collections archives and of the period. Suitable for 5+yrs.

2.30-4pm. £3, must book.

20 Dec – ACHILLES, THE WARRIOR HERO at The Ure Museum Of Greek Archaeology, University of Reading, RG6 6AA, 0118 378 6990, www. reading.ac.uk/Ure/info/events.php Learn about Achilles, the greatest of the Greek warriors who fought at Troy. Listen to stories of battles, friendship, honour and rage; explore the museum looking for signs of his great valour; and be inspired for a dauntless craft activity. For accompanied children 6+yrs, 2-4pm. £3 per child, please book.

14 Dec – HENLEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS CONCERT at the Christ Church

Centre, Reading Rd, Henley, www.henleysymphonyorchestra.co.uk A short concert at 4.30pm by the HSO for young children and accompanying adults.

Aimed at 2-6yrs (younger siblings welcome) with audience participation.

Plenty of space for prams inside, but limited car parking on-site. Tickets: £5, child £3, under 2s free, available from Bagatelle Toys in Henley from mid-Nov and from orchestra members.

14 Dec – RECYCLED ARTS WORKSHOP at The Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Come along and join recycling enthusiast

Woodley Winter Extravaganza, 7 Dec Jill Nicholas and make a painted tea light holder just in time for Christmas. Drop in between 11am-4pm. £1 per item.

14 Dec – FESTIVAL OF LIGHT in central Newbury, www.cornexchangenew.com The annual Festival of Light procession features a river of beautifully lit lanterns winding its way through Newbury town

centre. Lantern bearers meet and light their lamps from 4pm with the procession starting at 4.30pm on Northbrook Street and parading to Market Place. You can make your own lantern to parade at one of the free drop-in lantern making workshops on 30 Nov at New Greenham Arts Centre or 6 Dec at The Waterside Centre, Newbury with sessions at 10am

20 Dec – CHRISTMAS RACEDAY at Ascot Racecourse, 0844 346 3000, www.ascot.co.uk Festive fun for all the family. Alongside the racing enjoy the annual Christmas parade, fairground rides, storytelling with Mrs Christmas, facepainting, Christmas crafts, pony rides and the chance to meet Father Christmas. Finish the day with carol singing around the bandstand after the last race.

Gates open 10.45am. Advance tickets from £20, under 18s and activities free.

Open daily from 10am-6pm

0118 971 4002 info@buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Latest research shows that just five minutes of exercise in a “green space” such as a farm park can boost physical and mental health.

Researchers at the University of Essex looked at evidence from 1,250 people in 10 studies and found fast improvements in mood and self-esteem from exercise in a green space

r doorstep ou y on t h g ri , y a It’s a world aw

At Bucklebury Farm Park, you can run, jump, swing, go-kart, ramble and relax in the fresh air all year round.

You can feed our friendly farm animals and watch the deer in the park.

www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Sat nav postcode: RG7 6RR

For more Xmas shows visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/pantomimes

Thames Valley West

PAGE 21

What‘s On 20 Dec – SPECIAL CHRISTMAS STORYTIME at Sonning Common

Library, Grove Rd, Sonning Common, RG4 9LE, 0118 972 2448 For details contact the library.

21 Dec – FAMILY FUN: XMAS CRAFTS at The Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Drop in throughout the afternoon and make a robin, Father Christmas or snowman to take home. 2-4pm. £1 per child, drop in event.

22 Dec – CHRISTMAS CRAFTS & GAMES WORKSHOP at Eddie Catz

Newbury, RG14 7NF, 0203 475 5268, www.eddiecatz.com Make your own Christmas cards and Christmas tree decorations, play some traditional Christmas games and have fun with Christmas music and dancing. Then enjoy a delicious lunch followed by a visit from ‘Eddie’ Claus and a fabulously festive goodie bag. 10am-1pm. For 4-8yrs.

Tickets: £15 which also includes a play at Eddie Catz before and after the workshop.

22 Dec – WILD ONES: WINTER WONDERS at Westmorland Pavilion,

off Westmorland Drive, Warfield, RG42 3QP, 01344 354 441, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ parksandcountrysidevents Celebrate the winter solstice by creating your own decorated glass lantern and miniature boat. Then walk to the lake and launch these paper boats with their cargo of candles across the water. 4+yrs.

2pm-4pm. Bring 2 clean jam jars (label removed). Cost: £4 per child, please book.

22-23 Dec – CHRISTMAS TREASURE HUNTS in Bracknell Parks, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ parksandcountrysidevents Solve a series of festive-themed clues in these fun Christmas treasures hunts to find your chocolate prize. 1-3pm. £2 per child, please pre-book.

22 Dec at South Hill Park, RG12 7PA book on 01344 416 235.

23 Dec at Lily Hill Park, RG12 2RX, 01344 354 441 - book on 01344 354 441.

22 Dec-2 Jan – HOLIDAY CRAFT ACTIVITIES at various Reading

libraries, www.readinglibraries.org.uk Free craft activities for accompanied children. No need to book unless stated.

Palmer Park (0118 901 5106) 22 Dec Christmas Paper Doves - for 5+yrs, 10-11am, please book.

Tilehurst Library (0118 901 5112) 30 Dec Party Masks - for 4+yrs, 3-4pm.

Join the Festival of Light, 14 Dec

Battle Library (0118 901 5100) 2 Jan Snowman Chains - open to all children, 3-4pm.

Reading Central Library (0118 901 5950) 2 Jan Craft session - for-5-9yrs, 10.30-11.30am.

Whitley Library (0118 901 5115) 2 Jan Calendars - assorted craft activities, please book. Suitable for under 10s, 10.30-11.30am.

23 Dec – FAMILY WORKSHOP at Reading Museum, Blagrave St, Reading, RG1 1QH, 0118 937 3400, www.readingmuseum.org.uk Adults and children can make their own seasonal decorations together. Something for everyone from festive gift bags to simple glitter decorations. A great drop-in for families who need a break from Christmas shopping. Suitable for 5+yrs, 1-hour sessions at 10am, 11.15am, 1pm & 2.15pm, £3 per person, pay on the day, drop in.

24 Dec – FESTIVE FUN FOR FAMILIES at Wargrave Library,

Wargrave, Reading, RG10 8EP, 0118 940 4656, www.wokingham.gov.uk/ libraries/events Colouring, craft, stories and a visit from Father Christmas with refreshments.

10am-12.30pm.

29 Dec – FESTIVE FAMILY RACE DAY at The Racecourse Newbury,

RG14 7NZ, 01635 40015, www. racecoursenewbury.co.uk Racegoers can enjoy a festive atmosphere with a family treasure hunt and live music combined with exciting jump racing. Gates open 11am, first race 12.30pm. Tickets from £16.20, children go free.

Santa’s Back!**

30 Dec – MAJOR MUSTARD PRESENTS THE UGLY DUCKLING

at The Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Major Mustard is on tour with his musical ‘Box of Delights’ when he meets a sad and grumpy little duckling. In this unusual and delightful version of Hans Christian Andersen’s tale, Major Mustard and the audience call on their skills of song, music and story to cure the duckling’s sadness. Performances at 11am & 2pm, £5 per person, booking essential.

Nearly New Sales 22 Nov – MEGA BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Main Sports Hall, Nuffield Fitness & Wellbeing Centre, The Racecourse, Newbury, RG14 7PN, www. babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Over 40 stalls bursting with top quality near to new baby and children’s brands from birth to 8 years at up to 90% off the full retail price. Free parking, onsite cafe, children and buggies are welcome. 2-4pm. £1 entry, children go free! For more info visit website.

23 Nov – WOKINGHAM NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at St Crispins School, London Rd, Wokingham, RG40 1SS, www.nct.org.uk/nns Grab a bargain at this sale of nearly new baby and children’s clothes and equipment.

11.15am-12.45pm (11am for NCT members).

23 Nov – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Meadway Sports

Centre, Tilehurst, RG30 4BZ, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk See 22 Nov entry.

29 Nov – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at The FBC Centre,

Gorse Ride North, Finchampstead, Wokingham, RG40 4ES, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk See 22 Nov entry.

29 Nov – CHILDREN’S FAYRE at Reading YMCA, 34 Parkside Rd, Reading, RG30 2DD Stalls selling quality new and nearly new children’s toys, games, clothes and equipment from birth to 10yrs. Entrance: £1 adults, children free. 2-4pm. To book a stall email: Rachel.James@readingymca.org 30 Nov – SANDHURST NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at Sandhurst Sports Centre, Owlsmoor Road, Sandhurst, GU47 0SD Children’s clothes, shoes, toys, puzzles, games, books, maternity clothes and larger equipment such as prams, baby bouncers etc. 11.45am-1.30pm (11.30am for NCT members).

5 Dec – WOODCOTE WINDMILL SALE at Woodcote Village Hall, RG8 0QY, www.woodcote-online.co.uk Nearly new sale of toys, games, clothes and nursery equipment. 8am-12noon. For more details and to sell call 01491 681 449.

If you would like details of your production or event to appear on our website www.familiestvw.co.uk/ whatson, please email us at editor@familiestvw.co.uk The deadline for the January/February 2015 issue is 1 December.

Plus y Cterrataziners!

En

As well as stacks of Farm Fun, meet Santa and plenty of Christmas Cuties at Odds Farm Park!+ OPEN DAILY 10AM – 5.30PM TEA ROOM & FREE PARKING

T:01628 520188 NR BEACONSFIELD, HP10 0LX (M40, J2)

* Extra Charge Applies + See website for specific dates & times of all the Festive Fun and Activities.

PAGE 22 Thames Valley West OFP-AM-14-096 Xmas Ad 118x70 FM.indd 1

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

15/10/2014 09:29

Great Offers from Santa is coming to Odds Farm Park and we have a family ticket for you to win! For just £4 extra, every weekend from 22 & 23 Nov and daily on 29 Nov-24 Dec, children can visit Santa in his Magical Grotto and receive a Fantastic Gift!* And, every day until 24 Dec children can also choose a Free Chocolate Treat from the Christmas Tree in the Gift Shop!

CORN EXCHANGE

WIN a trip to see Aladdin Adventure, mayhem and mischief abound when you board the magic carpet for the 2014 Corn Exchange Pantomime!

Follow Aladdin’s exploits with his enchanted lamp, and see if he rescues the Princess from the evil Abanazar, or if Widow Twankey ever manages to finish the laundry.

With Crazy Entertainers every weekend and daily during the Christmas Holidays until 5 Jan+, there’s festive fun for the whole family! *£4 extra charge per child towards cost of the gift (worth at least £6).

Enter today to win a family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children from a choice of selected performances.

+ Odds Farm Park is closed on 25, 26 Dec and 1 Jan and closes at 3.30pm on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve with last entry 2.30pm. No Entertainer on these days.

For more information call 0845 5218 218, email or visit www.cornexchangenew.com

To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/ competitions today. Closing date December 10.

To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/ competitions today. Closing date December 10.

For more information call 01628 520 188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk

Babies can begin at Babies Go Swimming anytime from 6 weeks old. Every child can progress through their swimming program up to five years old. They use private warm pools and fully qualified ASA Instructors and classes are held throughout the week and at weekends. The course costs £114.50 for nine half hour sessions.

They also welcome children from other companies who have experienced underwater swimming classes.

For more information call 0118 989 0543, email info@ babiesgoswimming.com or visit www.babiesgoswimming.com Just quote ‘Families’ when booking and you will receive a free set of digital underwater photographs.

FEATHERS AND FUR

WIN an Owl Experience

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FREE digital underwater photographs

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BABIES GO SWIMMING

on ti ti pe m Co

WIN a festive day out on the Farm

on ti ti pe m Co

ODDS FARM PARK

Feathers and Fur Falconry Centre has a hands on approach to help children discover the amazing wildlife they have right on their door step. Enter today to enjoy an Educational Owl Hour for 2 children. They’ll learn about the magical world of owls, their amazing senses and hunting skills plus experience the once in a lifetime memory of having an owl swoop to a fist.

Throughout the year they also run Junior Falconry Days, Birthday Parties, and Family Flying sessions.

See the full range of activities at www.feathersandfur.co.uk Gift vouchers also available online.

To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/ competitions today. Closing date December 10.

Thames Valley West

PAGE 23

Festive Fun

Christmas Family Shows It’s panto season and this year there are treats galore to be found in our local theatres. You can travel to magical worlds, meet the ugliest sisters imaginable, boo the evil villains and, of course, enjoy plenty of laughs along the way. Take your pick from one of these fun-filled offerings.

The Hexagon Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA. Box Office: 0118 960 6060, www.readingarts.com

6 Dec-4 Jan 2015 – CINDERELLA Cinderella longs to attend Prince Charming’s Grand Ball but the Ugliest Sisters in pantoland are determined to keep her as their servant. Can Cinderella’s Fairy Godmother and a generous helping of panto magic perhaps make her dreams come true after all? The annual Hexagon pantomime this year stars Jon Clegg (Britain’s Got Talent), Anna Williamson (Splash, CITV, Toonattik), Dave Myers (Hairy Bikers) and Liza Goddard.

The Watermill Theatre Bagnor, Newbury RG20 8AE, 01635 46044, www.watermill.org.uk

20 Nov-4 Jan 2015 – PETER PAN Wendy and her brothers journey with mischievous Peter Pan to the mystical world of Neverland. Together they explore a land of sparkling mermaids, swashbuckling pirates and a ticking crocodile. With the help of Peter’s band of Lost Boys and a sprinkling of fairy dust, they must brave the perils of Neverland and defeat the villainous Captain Hook. A classic story of magic, courage and friendship with original music to warm your heart. Suitable for 4+yrs.

The Corn Exchange

Aladdin at South Hill Park

Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 5218 218, www.cornexchangenew.com

South Hill Park Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk

29 Nov-3 Jan 2015 – ALADDIN The magical, mystical world of Agraba comes to South Hill Park this Christmas. Reckless ragamuffin Aladdin has an adventurous streak which keeps getting him into trouble. Join him on a whirlwind adventure; packed full of music, mayhem and a little bit of magic! The annual SHP pantomime has gags galore, lots of laughter and plenty of audience participation making it the perfect Christmas treat for young and old.

23 Dec – SANTA IN LOVE

Santa in Love at SHP

Join Santa and his friends in this fun filled, festive musical complete with games, giggles and all your favourite Christmas songs. Suitable for 2-6yrs. Tickets: £8.50 which includes each child meeting and greeting Santa and receiving a gift.

There is also a ‘schools only’ performance on 18 Dec.

Kenton Theatre New Street, Henley, RG9 2BP, 01491 575 698, www.kentontheatre.co.uk

23 Nov – I’VE SEEN SANTA It’s Christmas Eve and Little Bear lies in bed waiting for Santa. Suddenly he hears a noise - there’s someone downstairs. Will Little Bear really see Santa?

This delightful Christmas family show is brought to life with a blend of music, puppetry and high-energy storytelling plus a very special appearance from Santa himself. Suitable for 3-7+yrs.

19-28 Dec – PETER PAN A traditional pantomime for all the family. Join Peter on his thrilling adventure with Wendy, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook, Smee, Tiger Lily, the Indians and the Mermaids … and don’t forget the Crocodile! You’ll be wowed by the flying antics of Peter Pan, charmed by the energy of the Lost Boys and thrilled by the hilarious antics of the Pirate Band.

PAGE 24

Thames Valley West

28 Nov-4 Jan 2015 – ALADDIN All aboard the magic carpet!

Aladdin and his enchanted lamp are coming to Newbury in this magical pantomime.

• Find out more on page 23 and enter our competition to win a family ticket.

The Oakwood Centre Headley Rd, Woodley, Reading RG5 4JZ, 07580 891 904, www.ticketsource.co.uk/ berzerkproductions

Aladdin at the Corn Exchange

17-21 Dec – THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. Journey ‘under the sea’ in this special adaptation of the Disney Broadway production featuring all your favourite songs. The show, performed to a very high standard by children from local Berzerk classes, provides a perfect preChristmas treat for ages 3 to 100.

In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home - and her fins - behind and live in the world above. But first she’ll have to defy her father King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she’s the girl whose enchanting voice he’s been seeking. Ticket information is available on the website.

The Anvil Churchill Way, Basingstoke RG21 7QR, 01256 844 244, www.anvilarts.org.uk

11 Dec-4 Jan 2015 – CINDERELLA Poor Cinderella works hard day and night while her spiteful ugly sisters do nothing. But when she meets her Fairy Godmother, life starts to change in all sorts of wonderful ways. Starring television’s Keith Chegwin and Cbeebies’ Katy Ashworth.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Festive Fun Berzerk Productio ns

Haymarket Theatre

presents

Wote St, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW. 01256 844 244, www.anvilarts.org.uk

3-14 Dec – THE LIFE & ADVENTURES OF SANTA CLAUS This exciting story follows the early life of Santa Claus from being abandoned in the forest and adopted by the wood-nymphs, through to making and delivering the very first toys. Find out the answer to lots of Christmas questions.

Why do we hang stockings? When was the first Christmas tree? And why on earth does Santa climb down the chimney? With original music and lots of audience participation.

The Wycombe Swan St. Mary St, High Wycombe, HP11 2XE, 01494 512 000, www.wycombeswan.co.uk

13 Dec-4 Jan 2015 – DICK WHITTINGTON TV soap-star, actor and comedian Shane Richie stars in this year’s pantomime.

Join Dick Whittington, Alice Fitzwarren and the lovable Tommy the Cat on an enchanting pantomime adventure.

The Theatre Royal Windsor Thames St, Windsor, SL4 1PS, 01753 853 888, www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

3 Dec-11 Jan 2015 – BEAUTY & THE BEAST Basil Brush, Postman Pan and Jess the Cat are returning again to The Theatre Royal’s popular pantomime along with regulars Kevin Cruise and Steven Blakeley for plenty of mischief and cheeky jokes. Other star cast members soon to be announced.

17 -ick2et1soDecember 2014

Crowthorne Parish Hall

urce.co.uk/be t rzer £11.75 | £9.75 | Family (2 adults, kproductions | 0 2 childr en) £39.7 7580 891904 5

Heath Hill Road South, Crowthorne, RG45 7BN, Box Office 07756 580 310, www.catswebsite.co.uk

27-29 Nov – JACK & THE BEANSTALK

7.30pm | Saturday m Society.

Enjoy the story of Jack performed by Crowthorne Amateur Theatrical atinee 2.30 pm Performances at 7.45pm with a matinee show at 2pm on the 29th.

Oakwood Centre dley Headley Road, Woo

Loddon Hall Loddon Hall Road, Twyford. Box Office: 0870 774 4262, www.twyrusdrama.org.uk

South Hill Park presents

15-17 Jan 2015 – IT’S A PANTO JIM BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT Performed by Twyford & Ruscombe Theatre Group, this is a show for all the family containing many pantomime favourites from Snow White and her mischievous dwarves to Cinderella and the Evil Queen.

Bracknell Ice Rink John Nike Way, Bracknell. Box Office: 01344 789 000, www.bracknellskislope.co.uk

10-14 Dec – SNOW WHITE ON ICE

A Pantomime Adventure

Get swept into the magical world of Snow White in this traditional panto – all performed on ice. Call the box office for show times and ticket prices.

Sat 29 Nov 2014 – Sat 3 Jan 2015

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts

South Hill Park Arts Centre · Bracknell

Altwood Road, Maidenhead. Box Office: 01628 788 997, www.nordenfarm.org

01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

25 Nov-28 Dec – KIPPER’S SNOWY DAY

One of the best written pantos in the region

Kipper’s Snowy Day at Norden Farm

Mick Inkpen

Kipper and his friend Tiger go on an adventure in the snow but can they find their way home? This warm-hearted Christmas show, based on the award-winning children’s books, has been specially created for Norden Farm. Enjoy a magical world of puppets and mischief, filled with original songs and music. Suitable for children from 3+years and their families.

The STage on Snow whiTe

★★★★★ Bracknell TimeS on Snow whiTe

Discover the history of panto at www.familiestvw.co.uk/pantomimehistory

Thames Valley West

PAGE 25

Christmas Days Out

Where’s Santa?

A little elf has told us where Santa can be found in the run-up to Christmas so if you can’t wait till the big day why not pop along and meet him at one of the events below.

But don’t forget to book early where necessary as these events are always popular.

VISIT SANTA AND HIS REINDEER AT OAKTREE GARDEN CENTRE & NURSERY

Ride behind Thomas to visit Santa at Didcot Railway Centre

Brockhill, Bracknell Road, Warfield, Bracknell, RG42 6LH Every Wednesday and weekend from 22 Nov-24 Dec plus 22-24 Dec. Christmas is a very special time at Oaktree Garden Centre, see the amazing Christmas wonderland display, walk down the avenue of lit trees and Christmas scenes leading to Mother Christmas’s House where you can help prepare for the big day. Then visit Santa’s Reindeer before meeting the big man himself! Santa visits start from £8.50 per child with two accompanying adults. www.oaktreegardencentre.com

fans, Days out with Thomas will be running every weekend from 29 Nov until 21 Dec at Didcot Railway Centre.

You’ll have the chance to ride behind Duck, see the Troublesome Trucks in action, meet The Fat Controller and enjoy themed activities and entertainment. The highlight of the day is sure to be a trip, on carriages pulled by Thomas, to visit Father Christmas in his grotto where lucky children will receive a present.

Tickets: £12, 60+yrs £11.

Booking is essential for this very popular event. Book online at www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/didcot

CHRISTMAS FUN AT ODDS FARM PARK Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, HP10 0LX, 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk

SANTA CRUISES WITH HOBBS OF HENLEY 01491 572 035, www.hobbsofhenley.com Enjoy a great family day out on a Thames river trip aboard The New Orleans. Enjoy family entertainment from Magic Circle member, Fred in the Shed (pictured opposite), who combines plenty of audience participation with incredible illusions and family fun; plus of course a visit from Santa himself.

Cruises leave from Henley at various times on 6, 7, 13 & 20 Dec. Tickets: £18, seniors £16 and child £11 and also include a present for each child, mulled wine/fruit juice, homemade mince pies and cakes. It’s advisable to book early as these cruises are very popular.

DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS TO MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS AT DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE Didcot Parkway Station, OX11 7NJ, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk The perfect pre-Christmas treat for all train

Santa is coming to Odds Farm Park on 22 and 23 Nov then daily from 29 Nov-24 Dec. Children can visit Santa in his special grotto and receive a toy for Christmas (£4 extra charge per child). They’ll also be able to choose a free chocolate treat from the Christmas tree in the Gift Shop and they’ll be plenty of madness and mayhem with the Park’s festive entertainers, plus all the usual fun of the Farm Park.

Santa Cruises at Hobbs of Henley 6th, 7th, 13th & 20th December 2014

Our Santa Cruises feature the highly entertaining ‘Fred in the Shed’ and the star attraction-Santa Claus! Visit Santa in his Grotto and receive a Christmas gift from him plus a river trip on The New Orleans. The perfect Christmas family day out.

11.30-1.30pm & 2.30pm-4.30pm • £18.00–Adults • £16.00-Seniors • Child-£11.00 Price includes: Mulled wine for the adults/fruit juices for the children on arrival • Homemade mince pies and cakes • A visit from Santa and a gift for each child Live family entertainment by Fred in the Shed Book early to avoid disappointment Sailing subject to sailing conditions. www.hobbsofhenley.com 01491 572035

PAGE 26

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Christmas Days Out CHRISTMAS TRAIL AT CLIVEDEN

You then pay for any extra activities such as a ride on the Meerkat Express around the park; Breakfast with Santa; or a visit to Santa’s Grotto on the Santa Express.

Special activities run on certain dates: for instance a pantomime on 23 Nov, a Santa Charity dash on 30 Nov and Christmas parties on 17 and 18 Dec, so check the website for details and to book.

Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead, SL6 0JA, 0844 249 1895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Get in the Christmas spirit with a festive trail around Cliveden’s famous gardens, running every weekend in December until Christmas. Ideal for children aged 4+yrs, families will discover traditional Christmas themed activities to do together such as helping to decorate a tree and playing a game of charades. There’ll also be small stocking-filler gifts to pick up along the route and an opportunity to help Father Christmas in his workshop.

10am-2.30pm. Normal admission charges apply plus £5 per child for the trail (including small gifts). No booking required.

SANTA’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND AT PAULTON’S PARK Ower, Romsey, Hants, SO51 6AL, 02380 814 442, www.paultonspark.co.uk Christmas arrives early at Paulton’s Park with the opening of their Winter Wonderland on 15 Nov. Wander through a magical winter scene filled with animated singing and dancing characters, including reindeers Rudolph and Donner; greet Santa’s elves, working hard in the toy factory; and, of course, meet Santa Claus himself and receive a present.

Peppa Pig World will be open and filled with twinkling illuminations, seasonal music, giant Christmas trees and much more. Meet Peppa Pig and George and, at the 4D Cinema, join Reindeer Blitzen and Elf Bobo in an amazing adventure film as they help Santa and save Christmas.

Tickets must be pre-booked and cost from £22.25 including a Santa visit and present. Selected Paulton’s Park rides will be closed, so please check the details online when booking.

BUCKLEBURY FARM PARK Bucklebury, RG7 6RR, 0118 971 4002, www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Enjoy Christmas on the farm between 1 and 23 Dec. Santa will be in his grotto and you can enjoy a ride on the tractor sleigh to feed the deer. All the usual attractions will be available including outdoor and indoor playgrounds, lots of animals to see and the warm and cosy Woody’s Café.

READING WINTER ON ICE Forbury Gardens, Reading, RG1 3EJ, 07768 857 857, www.readingwinteronice.com Forbury Gardens will be transformed from 9 Dec-4 Jan into a Winter Wonderland with themed rides and attractions, stalls, festive foods and seasonal drinks such as mulled wine, hot chocolate and Bavarian beer. The main attraction is a 30m x 12m real ice rink catering for over 120 skaters per session. For children there is a Santa’s Grotto that will be open daily until Christmas Eve. Open 10am-10pm.

LEGOLAND WINDSOR RESORT Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY, 0871 2222 001, www.legoland.co.uk Father Christmas and his elves will be parking their sleigh at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort for an extended Christmas season full of sparkle and festive family fun.

Guests will be able to step into his magical Christmas Land every weekend from 22 Nov and daily from 13-24 Dec. As well as a visit to Father Christmas, there’s a free LEGO® gift for every child, themed Christmas activities and LEGO building under the watchful eye of elf helper Noel Holiday. Enjoy eight of the Park’s family friendly rides and attractions and look out for the gigantic LEGO Christmas tree; being 8 metres high it shouldn’t be too hard to spot. Tickets cost from £25 (from £18.75 for pass holders) and must be booked in advance on the website.

HARE HATCH (WYEVALE), WINNERSH (COUNTRY GARDENS), BINFIELD (WYEVALE) & THATCHAM GARDEN CENTRES www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk Several local garden centres are running special breakfast and tea events where you can enjoy a meal and then join the elves to welcome Father Christmas who will help

Fred & Santa: Hobbs of Henley each child choose their very own present.

They will also be given a Christmas tree cookie to decorate. The cost is £9.99 per little elf and parents are welcome to join in with either a full meal or coffee and cake.

Further details and booking available on the website.

DOBBIES GROVELANDS GARDEN CENTRE 166 Hyde End Road, Shinfield, RG2 9ER, 0118 988 4822, www.dobbies.com Celebrate Santa’s grand arrival on 16 Nov at 11am or visit him in his festive grotto until 24 Dec. Grotto tickets cost from £6.99 to £10.99 and must be booked in advance, booking is available online. Santa Breakfast and Supper events will also be available, see the website for more details.

LAPLANDUK Whitmoor Forest, Swinley Road, Ascot, SL5 8BD, www.laplanduk.co.uk LaplandUK provides an immersive theatrical experience that begins with a personalised invitation in the post for every child. On arrival families travel along forest pathways to a snowy wonderland where they visit the Toy Factory to help the elves and Mother Christmas’ Kitchen to decorate gingerbread and gather for storytelling. Then it’s skates on at the ‘ice’ rink in the Elves’ Village with a chance to meet the resident huskies and reindeer, before having a personalised meeting with Father Christmas. Book in advance for visits from 29 Nov-24 Dec. Be warned though, re-locating the frozen landscapes of Lapland to the centre of Berkshire doesn’t come cheap - tickets cost from £49.50-£79.50 per person – but it’s still a lot less than flying to the Arctic Circle.

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH, www. hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Open daily from 21 Nov to 4 Jan (except Christmas Day), there’s something for all ages at London’s biggest festive attraction. The site is free to enter but tickets must be bought for most activities which can get very expensive. Attractions include the UK’s largest outdoor ice rink set around a Victorian bandstand and beautifully illuminated after dark; a 60m high Giant Observation wheel; Zippo’s Christmas Circus and the thrilling Cirque Berserk; and the fantastical Magical Ice Kingdom, a sub-zero world carved from ice and snow. It’s advisable to pre-book attractions online as they do sell out.

Santa will be appearing in his grotto in Santaland every day until 6pm with a free present for each child, but beware the queues can be very, very long. There is also a large funfair with some thrilling rides, Christmas Markets, a Bavarian Village with plenty of warming food and drink and, new this year, an Ice Bar for the grown-ups.

A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE Beale Park, Lower Basildon, Reading, RG8 9NH, www.christmas-adventure.co.uk Go wild this Christmas at this new event being held in the beautiful surroundings of Beale Park every weekend from 22 Nov, then daily from 19-24 Dec. The Wildlife Park and Gardens will be open from 11am-7pm for a special entrance fee of just £4 per person with after dark illuminations, make and take workshops and carol singing (19-24 Dec) all included.

Peppa Pig at Paulton’s Park

MID HANTS WATERCRESS LINE 01962 733 810, www.watercressline.co.uk Santa Specials are running 6-7, 13-14 and 20-24 Dec. Depart from Alresford or Alton stations for a 1-hour round trip on a steam train. Santa will visit each child in their seat and give them a gift whilst adults enjoy a mince pie and glass of wine. Tickets from £18, babies (under 1) £10, advance booking only.

CHOLSEY & WALLINGFORD RAILWAY 01491 835 067, www.cholsey-wallingfordrailway.com Santa Specials run on weekends from 29 Nov-21 Dec. Santa will ride on the train and each child up to the age of 8 will receive a gift. Mince pies for the adults at the Trackside Café after the ride. No need to book. Forces and emergency services personnel travel half price on 29-30 Nov. Santa will also be appearing at many of the events featured in our Diary Dates pages.

Keeping in touch with Santa Santa has kept up with the times and is now as tech-savvy as any teenager; you can even follow him on Twitter. To receive an online personalised message from the great man himself just go to www.portablenorthpole.com and upload a photo and some simple information. Clever Santa will then create and email your child a unique tailor-made video that will be sure to have them smiling from ear to ear - and it’s completely free.

You may not be aware but every year the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) uses its satellite systems, high-powered radars and jet fighters to track Santa Claus as he makes his yuletide journey around the world. They kindly provide live updates of his whereabouts on their website to keep curious children and their families informed. So just visit www.noradsanta.org from 1 December to find out if it’s time to get to bed yet!

Or why not go the old fashioned route and send him a real letter. Here is his address, but remember to post by 6 December to get a reply. Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. Find out more at www.royalmail.com/letters-to-santa You can also get a personalised letter, and support a really worthwhile charity, via the NSPCC. Visit www.nspcc.org.uk/santa to find out more.

Pantomimes and Xmas shows at www.familiestvw.co.uk/pantomimes

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Christmas Gifts

All they want for Christmas…

Allison Thomas comes up with some great gift ideas for all ages.

Ever wondered what to get a one-year-old boy now you’ve got teenagers, or your pre-teen god-daughter when your kids are still happy with Stickle Bricks?

Here at Families we’ve got over 50 children between us, so we’ve got together to make a list of the toys that our children have really loved and played with to help you get a winning present this year.

Babies

Toddlers 57327 Beale Park Xmas Advert 2014.indd 1

By now toys are getting more exciting, and quite large. One of the favourite toys for this age group is a Little Tikes Cosy Coupe - played with for years, even when they’re almost too big to get out of it! You can often get these in good condition secondhand, too. Just as big, and as popular, is a toy kitchen complete with plastic fruit and veg that they can cut up and serve to mum and dad for tea. The HappyLand range from ELC (www.elc.co.uk) is great for this age group choose from a rocket or train set, pirate ship, fairy treehouse or the very sweet Rose Cottage. And anything musical is also sure to be popular. Or try colouring (mess free with Aqua Draw) and sticker books. Usborne First Sticker Books series (www.usborne.com) have lots and lots of stickers.

sometimes 02/10/2014 12:41

Sainsburys Home

You’ve heard it before, but it’s really not worth spending a lot. How about a donation to a savings account and something small like stacking cups (pictured) soft toys (Jellycat have some gorgeous ones), fabric books or a new rattle? If you want to spend a bit more, try a play gym or door bouncer, musical toys or something from VTech with lots of flashing lights and noises!

Preschoolers Dressing-up outfits and role-play kits really come into their own at this age whether it’s doctors, firemen or Disney princesses. Dolls are also popular - try a soft rag doll like Bigjigs or the Manhattan range, where you can also buy outfits and accessories. Or how about a dolls’ pram or buggy? ELC has a good selection. Peppa Pig and Thomas the Tank Engine are perennially popular - choose from playsets, puzzles, books, dvds and much more. My Little Pony has also stood the test of time.

Other gifts that will get lots of use are sets from Duplo or Brio (pictured) which are easy to find in good condition on ebay. Dinosaurs are loved by all there’s a large range of items at www.thetoyanimalcompany.com Or how about some pop-up tents and tunnels for getting rid of all that energy?

PAGE 28

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Christmas Gifts

s

Debenham

Galt Toys

Ages 5–8 By now imaginative play has really kicked off - forever popular and loved by many are Sylvanians; choose from families, playsets or a vast array of houses to put them in. You can’t go far wrong with Lego in all its various forms - bricks and wheels, Lego City and Lego Friends, Harry Potter, The Hobbit and Star Wars - and it will be played with for years. Playmobil (pictured above) has a big range to choose from with farms, pirates, fairies, hospitals and more.

Craft kits are also popular with this age group; try Hama Beads, ELC for complete, easy-to-follow kits and Yellow Moon (www. yellowmoon.org.uk). And, although you might like to, don’t forget Barbie and Build-a-Bear. Or how about a wooden fort, garage, fire station or workbench - Pintoy make some lovely ones.

Construction toys of all shapes and sizes Geomags panels and magnets, wooden bricks and blocks - are also popular. Or try Hot Wheels, Transformers, a marble run or Scalextric.

Ages 9–11 While still happy to play with toys, by now children often love something which makes them feel grown-up. For girls try pretty slippers, little bags, jewellery, scarves, picture frames or a gift card from Claire’s Accessories. DIY baking sets made up of fairy-cake cases, sprinkles, icing tubes, cutters, apron and a book all put in a pretty tin make a lovely gift. Crafts are still popular the Klutz range is easily available and a bit more unusual. Or how about Harumika (www.harumika.eu), you dress mannequins in different outfits using bits of material and can upload the creations online. Scrap-booking is often popular, you could include a voucher for a local class. And of course no matter how many pens, pencils and notepads they have, stationery is always a winner!

If they’re into sports, it’s easy - kit, clothes, books, dvds on their favourite team or a moment in sporting history are all likely to go down well. Or how about a football goal, kite, waveboards, skateboards, or cool clothes to protect elbows etc.

Keep your children busy with Bizzy Bitz - It’s what you make of it What do Families magazine and Bizzy Bitz have in common? Both have families in mind...

Tremendous developmental and educational benefits, no wonder it has won multiple awards. Create impressive model masterpieces with the easy-to-follow instructions or let your imagination run free and build your own amazing creations. The brightly coloured, versatile pieces give endless opportunities to experiment and explore a world of creative possibilities. Guaranteed to keep your children busy. Boxes suitable for children from 3 - 11+ years, £5 to £50. www.bizzy-bitz.com.

Older kids It might be a case of clubbing together for a high-ticket item like a new bike, but no matter how old you are you still need something to play with on Christmas Day. How about something fun like a hula hoop - you can’t be a grumpy teenager when you’re hooping and there are lots of tutorials on You Tube to learn some cool tricks. Or how about an e-reader, you could always add some of their favourite ebooks - for reluctant readers the novelty factor might just work. And if all else fails, there’s always an iTunes voucher; which leads us to Apple. There’s no denying it an iPod, iTouch or iPad often feature on most kids’ Christmas lists. Maybe they should come with a warning from Santa - to prevent self-destruction, only use for x hours a day when your parents say it’s ok.

Perennial favourite Everyone who has one says that a trampoline really is the best thing they’ve ever bought. Buy the biggest your garden can accommodate and make sure you’ve got a safety net. Try Just Outdoor Toys (www. justoutdoortoys.co.uk) for a great selection.

WIN a Personalised Children’s Bathrobe

on ti ti pe m Co

TOWELSOFT

We have a snuggly towelling bathrobe with super soft fleece on the ears and the cosy hood, appliqued with a happy rabbit face for one lucky reader. Towelsoft are specialists in bathrobes for children and grownups too. You will find soft towelling ponchos, baby hooded bath towels, fleecy blankets and a wide range of luxury bathrobes. They can personalise your bathrobe with a name or fun message for an original and personal Christmas Gift.

See the full range from Towelsoft, the bathrobe and towelling experts, at www.towelsoft.co.uk or call 01628 642 941.

To enter just visit www.familiestvw.co.uk/competitions today. Closing date December 10.

See our trampoline buyer’s guide at www.familiestvw.co.uk/trampolines

Thames Valley West

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Christmas Gifts

Keeping it local Here are a few of our favourite gift ideas from local businesses.

Personalised presents from The Little Print Co If you are looking for a unique Christmas gift this year, then try The Little Print Co. Based in Reading, they have loads of personalised gifts to choose from, like necklaces for Mum (from £55), keyrings for dad (from £49), and Christmas tree decorations for the grandparents (from £55).

Find out more at www.thelittleprintco.co.uk Last order date for Christmas is 1 December so call 0118 975 6382 now for details or bookings.

Meet the lemurs in a Junior Keeper session

A unique gift from Beale Park With Christmas just around the corner, why not add Beale Park to your list of places to shop.

They have a host of unusual gift ideas to suit all ages, with everything from annual season tickets, animal and tree sponsorship and gift vouchers to Keeper sessions.

So, if you know someone who would love to experience an Animal Keeper session, giving them the chance to see behind the scenes and to meet the animals - or a family that would go wild for an annual season ticket or an animal sponsorship, Beale Park can help you give the gift of adventure this Christmas! Last date for gift applications is 18 December.

To find out more about these unique gifts please visit www.bealepark.co.uk or call 0844 826 1761.

The Dinky Fingerprint Company launches new range of jewellery The Toy Animal Company The Toy Animal Company is a family-run business, based in Reading, with the best full-time toy testers and advisors - the owner’s own little boys! As the name suggests they sell a great range of animal toys from wooden and plastic figures, pull-alongs and puppets to gorgeous soft toys in touch and feel fabrics.

Animals have all the attributes you can ask for when it comes to nurturing our little ones and these toys provide the spring board for loving and learning - from cuddles and interaction to sounds as babies, and later from counting and role play.

So whether you are singing incy-wincy spider for the 100th time or going through every animal in Old MacDonald they have a toy to suit and share with your little ones in those first, very special years. Find out more at www.thetoyanimalcompany.com

PAGE 30

Make someone’s Christmas by buying them some personalised, engraved jewellery from the Dinky Fingerprint Company. You can create bespoke jewellery and keepsakes from your loved ones hands, feet or even your pet’s paw prints. Their new engraving machine magically etches pictures, words or images of your choice onto chrome, stainless steel or sterling silver. They also make perfect gifts for the special men in your life. You can put your children’s hands and feet on some bespoke cufflinks for work or a personalised keyring with artwork on it, so they don’t forget their keys. They also have a varied range of charms, necklaces and bracelets, which make gorgeous presents for Mums, Grandmas and friends.

The Dinky Fingerprint Company can help you capture special moments by creating memories you can touch forever with their comprehensive range of silver fingerprint jewellery. See their website for the full range www. dinkyfingerprintjewellery.co.uk; email: sales@dinkyfingerprint.co.uk or call 01628 623 386.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2014

Festive Fun

Create a very merry Christmas tradition Natalie Trice comes up with some simple festive traditions that will create magical memories that last a lifetime.

As a child I loved the build up to Christmas Day probably more than the event itself. There were the school plays and parties, carol singing with my sisters, shopping for presents with our pocket money and then there was the year I tried to block up our chimney to stop ‘that scary man’ getting into the house.

One of the greatest things about being a mummy is that I am now creating those special memories for my sons and watching their faces light up as they experience the most wonderful time of the year.

Whilst there’s pressure to post perfect festive selfies on social media, ride new bikes on Boxing Day and hand out M&S nibbles in designer gear, for us the magic of Christmas is all about anticipation, atmosphere and excitement…and trying to get small people to sleep before dawn.

Unlike the routines of Gina Ford, these repeated actions bind the hearts of husbands and wives, parents and children, brothers and sisters, grandparents and grandchildren, linking generations in a very special way.

I’m not talking lavish pilgrimages to Selfridges or vintage champagne for breakfast but you can create your own meaningful rituals and expected events: • Rather than a supermarket advent calendar, invest in a wooden one and fill the drawers with sweets and gifts. The annual unveiling will mark the start of Christmas in your home.

• Put a tangerine in the bottom of their stockings (not a Playstation Vita).

National Trust: Paul Harris

create both excitement of epic proportions and provoke logistical questions from older children!

• From sooty boot prints on the doorstep to fairy dust, reindeer food crumbs and halfdrunk sherry, leave signs that Santa has visited.

I asked other people what they do and it seems most of us are on the same page and re-living our own childhood experiences:

• Watch the local lights being switched on and attend late night shopping events (you’ll find lots in our What’s On pages). There is nothing like community sprit at Christmas to create a sense of belonging.

• Visit your local garden centre for your tree, where you can visit Father Christmas, buy mistletoe and tinsel and drink hot chocolate whilst listening to carol singers.

• Forget about a themed tree - I think there is something special about mixing your children’s handmade decorations with a stock of unique ones so your tree tells a story rather than looking like an Elle Decoration photo shoot.

• Decorate the tree together. Arrange the branches, add the lights and then work up from the base before adding the fairy or star (another tradition) at the end. You can tweak it when everyone is tucked up in bed, so it doesn’t look like Mister Maker has ‘done it in a minute’.

• Whether it’s going to church, having lunch with Nana or watching a an old black-andwhite movie, try to do something special on Christmas Eve so you get the most out of the day.

• Follow Santa’s progress on NORAD (see page 27) and really build up the anticipation of his arrival at your house. Remember this can

Xmas craft ideas at www.familiestvw.co.uk/thingstodo

• ‘We watch a movie after tea and I read The Night Before Christmas which they love and expect.’

• ‘We lay glow sticks in the garden to make a runway for Santa’s sleigh.’

• ‘The boys bring their stockings into our room on Christmas morning and open them together whilst eating chocolate coins.’

• ‘We help at a local shelter on Christmas Eve and this makes our teenagers really appreciate the food and gifts we enjoy during the rest of the holiday.’

• ‘We go to our village pub and have a drink with friends before going home for a traditional family feast and the Queen’s speech.’

• ‘We always go to the local pantomime on Boxing Day otherwise it is more eating and an anti-climax after Christmas Day!’ Whatever you do this Christmas have an amazing time creating magical childhood memories and unique traditions for your family.

Natalie Trice is a freelance journalist, writer and award-nominated blogger, she knows a thing or two about PR and social media too.

She’s also a Mummy to two small boys, wife to Oliver and an owner of a cat and a dog.

When she isn’t writing or networking on Facebook, Natalie is an avid shopper, coffee drinker and collector of handbags and shoes. www.passionateaboutwords.co.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 31

OPEN MORNING

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Visit www.crosfields.com to register online in advance.

Wednesday 12 November Tuesday 2 December For entry into the Prep School from age 3 upwards.

Open Mornings run from 9.15am to 11.00am.

Shinfield Road, Reading, RG2 9BL | 0118 987 1810

To reserve your place at an Open Morning please call Admissions on 0118 984 6909 or email prepadmissions@sjcr.org.uk. Alternatively you can book online.

APPLY NOW FOR BURSARIES Available for Years 7 and 8 Only

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WE ARE A SMALL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR BOYS WITH SMALL CLASS SIZES AND A CARING FAMILY ENVIRONMENT THAT FOCUSES ON THE INDIVIDUAL BOY’S ACADEMIC, MORAL & PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT. LOCATED IN THE HEART OF READING, WE ARE A SCHOOL WITH A GOOD REPUTATION THAT STRIVES TO BRING VALUE FOR MONEY FOR PARENTS.

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01344 773394 The Avenue, Crowthorne, Berks RG45 6PB

Printed by Warners Midlands Plc. Copyright Families Thames Valley West October 2014. 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.