Families upon Avon Issue 22 Sept-Oct 2011

Issue 22 z September/October 2011

Local News The latest from your region

Cycling Safely are your kids roadworthy?

School Matters is your child’s school performing?

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www.familiesuponavon.co.uk

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Back to School!

Clubs and classes for the new term

What’s On Your guide to local events and activities The FREE Magazine for families in Bath & North East Somerset, North Wiltshire & Bradford on Avon FuA Issue 22.indd 1

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What’s Inside?

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Local News

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Clubs and Classes

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School matters

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Education Starts at Home

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The Great Weaning Debate

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On Your Bike!

Cover image courtesy of Oscar & Rose Photography www.oscar-and-rose.co.uk, 07828 683129

Next Issue: November/December Issue 23.

Copy Deadline: 14th October 2011.

Distribution: 1st Week of November 2011 13,500 copies of Families upon Avon are available through nurseries, schools, libraries, selected shops and other points throughout Bath and North East Somerset, North Wiltshire and Bradford on Avon. If you would like some free copies for your organisation please let us know.

Call 07921 257992 or email editor@familiesuponavon.co.uk

NEW THEATRE CLASSES Sonnets Theatre Arts School will be opening classes on a Wednesday after school at The New Oriel Hall in Bath in October 2011. There will be classes in acting, singing and dance for children aged 5 - 16 years.

The performing arts help children to gain confidence and learn essential life skills for school, university and their chosen career. Sonnets pupils have the opportunity to perform on a professional stage each year, and have contact with casting directors for TV and the West End through their Sonnets Agency.

“The arts have the power to transform children’s lives and have a proven positive impact on their development...”

Quote from The Princes Foundation for Children and The Arts.

Sonnets Theatre Arts School aims to give high quality performing arts training in a relaxed and fun environment.

All classes are taught by trained professionals and all staff are CRB checked.

For class times and information visit: www.sonnetstas.co.uk, Email: info@sonnetstas.co.uk or telephone 08450 038910 (please leave a message as staff are often out at classes).

Designed and Printed by: Ridgeway Press Ltd. 01256 885821. © Families upon Avon September 2011.

Disclaimer: Any original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owner’s own risk; whilst every care is taken neither Families upon Avon nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Families Group: Families upon Avon is part of a group established in 1990 and headed by Families South West (London). All magazines in the Group are independently owned and operated under licence.

NEW FOREST SCHOOL NURSERY The recently completed Free Rangers Forest School Nursery held their Open Day on Saturday 20th August offering local families an opportunity to see what Free Rangers has on offer.

Free Rangers nursery in Welton is housed in a renovated Mill Barn and new build oak framed loggia alongside. The buildings have been specifically designed for babies from 6 months up to school age children ensuring the children are provided with the best possible environment to learn through play.

Charlotte Lucas and Jayne Morris grew up in the farmhouse where the nursery is situated and feel hugely fortunate to have had endless opportunities to explore the beautiful surroundings and all that it offers. It was for this reason coupled with the recognition of the vital importance of a good Early Years Education that led them to setting up Free Rangers Nursery.

Free Rangers children will have the opportunity to participate in Forest School sessions and activities from bark rubbings to building a den as well as helping to harvest the fruit and vegetables grown on site.

If you would like more information about Free Rangers Forest School Nursery then please contact Charlotte Lucas on 07702 483200 or email info@freerangers.org.uk or visit www.freerangers.org.uk

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Local News

HIDDEN GEM

NEW KIDS CLOTHING FROM SWEDEN me&i, a gorgeous range of kids clothes from Sweden has recently been launched in the UK. The brand was founded by two Swedish mums in 2004 and their clothes represent Swedish design at its best – high quality, funky colours and cool prints and they are really comfortable to wear. All the clothes are tried and tested by a panel of children for both comfort and looks. me&i makes shopping for children’s clothes a really enjoyable activity. Their clothes are sold exclusively through home parties, saving busy mums both time and effort.

They are now looking for representatives in the local area so if you are thinking about returning to work or just want to change to a job that fits round your family, take a look at the company’s website.

Phone: 07725 030 821 ; Web: www.meandi.eu

MAD ACADEMY GETS KIDS MOVING Kids, music and masses of movement – it’s a winning combination! Children love to be physical and let off steam. So it’s not surprising that in MAD Academy’s high energy music and movement classes, everyone, from babies to preschool children (and their parents!), get active and have fun.

‘Physical development is fundamental to the ethos of MAD Academy’, explains Kirstie who runs weekly classes in Calne, Chippenham, Malmesbury and Rowde.

‘So, as well as funky songs , instruments, and musical games, classes are packed with specially choreographed dance routines and exciting props designed to develop motor skills.’ MAD Academy classes are a great way to promote active habits from the very start. ‘Our approach is energetic and free-spirited, which children relish – it’s like a party every week!’

To try a class for free or more information visit their website, www.madacademy.com.

Alternatively, contact Kirstie on 01249 655797 / kirstie.nickson@madacademy.com

WAC KEEPING WILTSHIRE COOL

I recently had the pleasure of being referred to Richard Hill of WAC Services to fix the air conditioning on our car before our potentially heated journey with two young children to Cornwall.

The situation was very last minute and Richard, a self-confessed perfectionist, worked his weekend and went out of his way to ensure we still headed out on our holiday in time. If the extra effort and excellent customer service had not been enough, I picked up my car to find it had been cleaned (inside and out) and had unexpectedly been treated to a bodywork makeover by having had its various scuffs and scratches removed (at no extra cost I hasten to add).

Richard, if you are reading this I can only apologise for the impact the holiday and our children have had on the interior but rest assured, Mum and Dad kept their cool – which made a considerable difference.

Richard provides air conditioning services to both domestic and commercial customers. Whether you are looking to fix your car or install a system in your school or office, with 25 years’ experience this is one company that, from personal experience, we highly recommend.

Contact Richard for a free no obligation quote on 07789 897893 or email: wac.services@yahoo.co.uk.

DATE CONFIRMED FOR BATH HALF 2012 The organisers of the Bath Half are pleased to announce that the 2012 race will take place on Sunday 11th March and are encouraging those thinking of taking part to sign up now to avoid disappointment.

The race, now in its 31st year, continues to excite runners of all abilities in what is considered to be one of the best half marathons in Great Britain attracting competitors both nationwide and from abroad.

The 2011 event saw almost 12,000 runners pounding the streets of Bath and around 20,000 spectators coming out to cheer them on and next year’s event is expected to be even bigger.

Entries for the Bath Half have always sold out months before race day, so people are being encouraged to sign up at www.bathhalf.co.uk to guarantee their place on the start line.

Race Director Andrew Taylor, of Running High, said, “2012 is an iconic year for sport in the UK and everyone is working hard to make it the best Bath Half to date. With entries selling fast, we are expecting a sell-out within a matter of weeks. With the 2011 race hailed such a huge success, we are hoping as many people as

possible get the chance to run in this ever-popular event so we are advising anyone thinking of taking part to sign up as soon as possible.”

The half marathon will encompass a Corporate Team Challenge, which attracted over 100 teams last year, and the annual Family Fun Run will also return for 2012, which saw a record number of entrants in 2011 and is expected to grow further in the next year.

The Bath Half is a great warm up race for those runners taking part in the Virgin London Marathon and it is one of the largest charity fundraisers in the South West, raising a predicted total of around £1.5million pounds this year for over 50 different local and national charities.

For more information and to see the brand new website, go to www.bathhalf.co.uk.

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Editorial inclusion in the local news pages is always FREE

BATH EVENT FOR BUMP, BABY AND BEYOND Saturday 24th September – The Bath Pavilion Adults £3 Children FREE The Bath Pavilion is set to host Bath’s first major Baby & Toddler Show on Saturday 24th September.

Event Co-ordinator and local mum Hannah Moxham said “The Bath Baby and Toddler Show is a celebration of everything to do with pregnancy, birth, babies and toddlers. We have a fun packed day planned for the whole family, with lots of FREE entertainment for the kids in the form of art & crafts, soft play, taster sessions and the chance to meet our special blue guest”.

As well as practical and informative demonstrations for the parents the Show will also host unique retail stalls selling products and gifts not often found on the high street from popular children brands to one-off handmade pieces. Local service providers will also be in attendance, offering visitors on the day FREE taster sessions for an array of fun interactive sessions from swimming and rugby to gymnastics.

There will also be plenty of helpful and supportive advice available from local organisations and charities.

“We also have a fashion show taking place on our main stage and need local children from zero to seven years to model the gorgeous collection of organic clothes. So we ask any parents wanting their child to take part in our Fashion Show to contact us immediately”.

The first 100 families to arrive at the Show will receive a fantastic FREE Goody Bag crammed full of product samples, discount vouchers, magazines, flyers and information leaflets.

For more details about the Show visit www.bathbabyandtoddlershow.co.uk or follow them on FaceBook or Twitter for regular updates

EARN EXTRA CASH WITH AWARD WINNING LABELS4KIDS Labels4Kids has been busy over the past couple of months, working on their site, expanding into the international market and updating their products. At www.facebook. com/Labels4kids if you ‘LIKE’ them then you can have access to their wall where you can view special offers, new product information, member profiles, news articles and discounts. They cover everything from labelling to chatting with customers and references to their blogs which have tonnes of topics on the latest educational and parent related issues Also this year they have started to bring on some sales agents, so if you would like to earn a little cash and think this could be for you then contact them on the email below. There is a small start-up cost and then you will receive a starter pack.

You can then refer friends and family to their site and earn some money back in commission from this. You get to show and explain products you like to others that may also benefit from their use and make some money too.

Over the years Labels4Kids has been entered in and won numerous awards and this year is no different. Last year they won Online Retailer of the Year in the Online Retail Awards which are internationally known for excellence in retailing.

Labels4Kids are constantly looking at ways to improve so if you have any useful ideas or suggestions please send them an e-mail at sales@labels4kids.com.

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Photo Credit Emma Green

AUTUMN AT WESTONBIRT IS A NATURAL PLAYGROUND Autumn at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, managed by the Forestry Commission, becomes a colourful natural playground during October and November.

The opportunity to crunch leaves with your wellies, hide amongst trees vibrant in colour and build dens on the arboretum’s natural play trail is enough to get even big kids excited about being outdoors.

Families can follow the natural play trail to find giant stepping stones, tree forts and fallen giant logs in the Old Arboretum and a new area in Silk Wood where several fallen logs have been positioned and carved to create a haven for young adventurers.

During Westonbirt’s October half term Autumnal Highlights activities (25-28 October), children can find our why trees change colour and make crafts using natural materials found in Westonbirt’s woodlands to take home.

Find out more at www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt-families

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If you have some interesting news, email: editor@familiesuponavon.co.uk

AN ALADDIN’S CAVE OF CRAFT MATERIALS For an Aladdin’s cave of craft materials look no further than the Wiltshire Scrapstore and Resource Centre. One of the largest and busiest scrapstores in the country, they are situated on Bowden Hill on the outskirts of Lacock.

Items at the Wiltshire Scrapstore are donated by businesses and the community to save them from landfill and include bubble wrap, card, fabrics, foam, ribbon and wallpaper.

Membership is free and open to everyone. Materials must not be resold and members take responsibility for ensuring that craft materials are suitable for ages and abilities of any children for whom they are intended.

Facilities at the Wiltshire Scrapstore include a craft shop, library, badge machine hire service, training and workshops and Accucut die-cutting services and it’s a great place for creative and children’s parties. The scrapstore runs a programme of activities during school holidays, including interactive story-telling sessions with popular children’s author Neil Griffiths, patron of the charity.

Earlier in the year the charity opened a shop in the village of Lacock, just behind The George public house. The shop sells beautiful items made and designed by the scrapstore team of volunteers, all made from donated reusable resources.

To find out more information about the scrapstore, go to www.wiltsplay.org.uk or ring 01249 730011.

For more information about patron Neil Griffiths, go to www.cornertolearn.co.uk/neilgriffiths

FRENCH STYLE VINTAGE AND ANTIQUE MARKET Soak up the wonderful atmosphere of this charming café with delicious coffee and snacks whilst browsing the exciting selection of French brocante, decorative and retro furniture and furnishings, flea market finds, vintage clothing, and antique and vintage textiles.

The harmonious meeting of antiques, good food and drink as well as an informal atmosphere is inspired by the Brocantes and Vide Greniers (open attics) of the south of France. The organisers wanted to create a similar atmosphere and the area surrounding Alice Park Cafe in Bath seemed a perfect place to do this.

The first Brocante surrounding the café in Alice Park, Bath in June 2011 was extremely successful. Eight dealers were selling an exciting mix of decorative and retro furniture and furnishings, vintage and antique textiles and clothes, customised vintage knitwear and t shirts, as well as beautiful dried herb garlands.

The next Brocante will be on Saturday 24th September 2011 from 10am until 4 pm and entry is FREE. There will be some of the original dealers, as well as upcycled clothes and bags, vintage toys, more antique and vintage textiles and small decorative collectables.

Please contact Katherine on 07951 889056 to book a stall.

HELPING CHILDREN TO CONNECT AND CONCENTRATE ‘Emotional Education through the Arts’ established by AnnaMichele Hantler, delivers consultancy and training to children, schools and the families sector.

Anna-Michele’s vision is to nurture self-awareness and empathy in children. They utilise a creative and multi arts approach to enhance emotional and social competencies. The courses are designed to support adults and parents in helping children with their everyday feelings, improve relationship skills and be ready for learning.

Anna-Michele is hosting the following courses in Bath: Massage in Schools Programme Instructor Course - 23rd & 24th September 2011 Mad, Bad, Sad and Glad (1 day course) - 26th September 2011 All courses are accredited through Edgehill University and are practical, fun and inspirational. For more information please contact Anna-Michele on 07786807999/0191 580 1111 or email: amhantler@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.anna-michele.com

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Clubs and Classes

By Robina Cowan

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ith the constant wail that schools focus on teaching children to pass tests, adding out of school activities gives your child a chance to shine and have fun outside the classroom. Hobbies lead to new friends, they reveal hidden talents and develop skills that could become a real advantage one day.

Everyone is good at something, and finding it is a huge confidence booster. Just because you drop the ball in PE doesn’t mean you wouldn’t be great at swimming or dancing; the child who isn’t interested in the bright lights can still shine in an arts class or on the sports field.

Practical Considerations While it might seem tempting to guide your child to musical, sporting and artistic genius outside the classroom, they need time for just ‘chilling’ too. Liz Baker is a parent, and also a school teacher. In her view: “there is no point in enrolling in every class going. Don’t assume your child will get an academic head start.

They will only benefit academically when they are ready, and not before. Remember children get exhausted too - give them time to themselves. Children should choose and be given a taste of each activity before deciding if he or she wants to commit to it long-term - there’s no gain in putting your child under pressure.”

Think ahead. You may need to put your child’s name on a waiting list, particularly for more popular classes Stay local. Walking distance is best, otherwise getting there and back becomes another chore Great staff. The best leaders are enthusiastic, skilled, trained, and have eyes in the back of their heads to spot children who need a little more encouragement, particularly when they are new and might feel shy Additional costs. Will you need specialist clothes or equipment? Does the club offer these second-hand? Is there an annual subscription or insurance charge? How much are exam fees?

Look-see. Many clubs offer a free trial class, especially if they run on a term basis. If that’s not possible, ask to pay weekly for the first two sessions Give it time. Some children are prone to dropping out. Unless you think they are completely and utterly unsuited to the activity, or really, really hate it, stick it out for at least a couple of terms.

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Music Music gives amazing educational and developmental benefits. From just three months, babies actively enjoy music groups, and as soon as they can shake a rattle, they can join in too. Belting out a song teaches rhythm and helps develop speech.

Those hand actions you do when you sing nursery rhymes?

They boost spatial reasoning, which will later be useful in maths and science. Playing an instrument is great for dexterity and coordination. It teaches teamwork and responsibility, and improves concentration and memory. At six or seven, children might start with a recorder, keyboard or violin. From eight, guitar is an option.

Brass and wind instruments are best left to older children, when children can join their school band or orchestra.

Languages With over 60 different languages now spoken in schools across the UK, we are bringing up our children in a truly multicultural society.

Experts agree that the earlier a child starts learning other languages, the better. Children are extremely receptive to new ideas and information, especially when they’re having fun.

Preschool language classes build confidence and familiarity on an instinctive level, typically through songs, dances and simple games. School age children should be more aware of grammar and syntax, and supplementing school lessons with a language club will pay dividends - boosting their confidence, vocabulary and appreciation of different cultures.

Active Bodies Regular exercise is hugely beneficial to long term health and fitness.

It’s easy to see the value of activities that help children burn off some energy at the end of the school day, or build skills in sports which they already enjoy at school. Even the tiniest children can benefit from the social side of playing team games, or the fun element of learning a ‘solo’ sport like trampolining, tennis or diving.

When children are engaged, they pay more attention - 61% of young people claim to be better behaved in PE than other lessons, in most cases simply because they enjoy it more. This is particularly true amongst boys, and children who admit to misbehaving at school - of whom 73% claim to be better behaved in PE lessons.

Theatre arts “I like acting and pretending to be someone else and learning songs and dances with my friends,” says five-year-old William, who has attended a children’s performing arts club for nearly a year. For

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boosting the confidence of shy or reserved children, drama can’t be beaten. And the skills that a child learns through performing arts classes will stand them in good stead throughout their lives - twenty years down the line, they’ll thank you when it comes to addressing a meeting room or chairing a conference.

Performing arts classes are not only for children with starry aspirations. Theatre arts bring literature to life, and build selfconfidence. Learning to perform in front of an audience can help children with public speaking; role playing and improvisation give their minds freedom to develop while developing empathy for other people’s feelings.

Arts and Crafts Children love to get messy, and the chance to create their own piece of art is something special. Even the smallest child loves the sensation of clay between fingers, or the thrill of splodging finger paints on paper. Expressing themselves through the arts - whether through painting, drawing, story writing or making ‘junk models’ - gives children the freedom to unleash their creativity and push boundaries.

By providing a balance and a creative outlet, art skills complement and assist literacy and numeracy skills in the classroom. If you’re not artistically inclined yourself, or never have the time to sit down and help your child create a wonderful cushion, collage or clay model, why not leave it to the experts?

School support Parents choose out of school academic subjects for their children for a host of reasons - perhaps your little one excels in maths and you want to give them more challenging and stimulating tuition or maybe you simply want to supplement what is being taught at school by introducing the skills needed for independent study and fluency in the subject. Whatever your reason, group or individual tuition can make a huge difference to your child’s progress and greatly enhance their school-based studies.

More and more parents are hiring private tutors to give their child the edge when it comes to achieving in class, or practicing and preparing for exams. If your child is bringing home good school reports and is happy and settled, there’s no need; however there’s no longer any stigma in finding extra help if you want to, and the best classes are fun as well as educational.

Five benefits of extra curricular activities 1. Curriculum boosting After-school activities and clubs are a great way to complement and extend what children have precious little time for at school, especially art, music and languages 2. Socialising Claire, mother of four under 10 year-olds, believes it is important for children to make new friends outside school: “It really helps them stand on their own and develop their confidence. There isn’t that pecking order thing that you have in the playground. It’s a chance to break out of whatever mould you’ve been cast in” 3. After-school care When both parents work, after-school activities on school premises can be incredibly valuable.

Most schools offer a mix of teacher—run and externally— organised clubs after school, and even at weekends 4. A sense of achievement Amanda says: “Kitty, 8, has just reached purple belt and she has been made karate captain.

She’s very proud, it’s tremendously good for her” 5. For all the family When Patrick started tennis lessons, his parents were inspired to get active too. Mum Maria has joined a tennis club for adult group coaching, and daddy Mike cycles to and from Patrick’s lessons with him

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School matters

By Elisabeth Dolton

Make sure you have chosen the right school for your child, with these simple ways to monitor the progress of the school and your child.

Cooking at King Edward Pre-prep

class if that is possible. Check out pupils’ behaviour So you have been through the dilemma of choosing and how is it dealt with. Book a short appointment the school, the application was accepted, your Do keep in mind with the Head teacher. S/he is the person most child’s place allocated, uniform bought and named, that even the responsible for the quality of the teaching, the and they are now settling into their new school. best teachers and atmosphere, and whether your child will be looking Your job is done ... or maybe not. Now it’s time forward to going to that building every day. Ask to start thinking about how to monitor your child students have bad them what the school’s strengths and weaknesses and the school’s progress. Are the teachers doing moments, so allow are, the school’s priorities this year, and ask yourself their best for your child? Did you choose the right yourself enough would I hire this person to work in my office? school? But how do we keep an eye on things, These will all give you a sense of whether or not the simply and easily, without needing to join the PTA? time to get a fair school is delivering its best for your child.

Choosing a school is one of the most important picture of what’s Finally, the most important thing to ask is does decisions you as a parent will make for your going on in the my son/daughter appear to be content at school? If child, therefore getting a clear and accurate sense classroom the answer is yes, then they are likely to be learning of day-to-day life at the school is imperative. which is pretty good. Ask them about their day – Unfortunately, it’s often easier to get information what did you do in Maths today? Be specific in what about a car or household appliance than a school, you ask them and vary your topic, PE the next time, English the so an easy first step is to look at published information, readily next. Ask your children to show you their school work, check out available about every school. Once a year, look at these figures for their marks and teacher comments. You will be able to gauge a lot your school, and see what’s changed. If an area has worsened, ask about what level they are at. Ask teachers to show you examples your child’s teacher why, and what is being done about it? Your aim of successful work, compare it to your child’s work, and listen to here is to check that the school is aware of these issues, and has their comments about where your child can improve. If necessary, good steps to tackle them. Seek evidence that what is planned is make a plan with the teacher on how you can work together to being put into place, and, more importantly, that these actions are help those improvements. making a difference to the education of the pupils.

As a parent, you play an important role in your child’s academic However, school is not achievement. Taking steps to monitor the school and track progress just about learning and passing Basic facts for every school helps you know the school is the right one for your child, and helps exams. There are a whole • Number of applications your child get the best out of this amazing time. range of good things about • Number of pupils being at school like building • Test & exam results a good group of friends, OFF THE SHELF REPORTS - INSPECTION OF • Attendance levels exploring new activities, SCHOOLS • Ofsted & Independent school learning to get on with people The Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and reports of all backgrounds, going on Skills (Ofsted) regulate and inspect all local authority schools and • Reported incidents of poor school trips, so it is important independent schools that are not members of the Associations behaviour to monitor other factors. The of the Independent Schools Council. The Independent • Number of exclusions imposed ethos and culture of a school Schools Inspectorate (ISI) and School Inspection Service (SIS) will tell you a lot about what it inspect schools who are members of the Associations of the is trying to achieve. Consider Independent Schools Council. The Bridge Schools Inspectorate the learning environment - do they post artwork on the walls, have inspects schools belonging to the Christian Schools’ Trust and carpet in the classrooms, provide easy access to books? Check out the Association of Muslim Schools throughout England. All the school’s own development and performance targets. These publish their reports on their websites. are all good indicators on how the school is progressing.

Of course the best way to check that the school is right for your child is to ask the people who work there. Regular meetings with teachers are an effective way to monitor your child’s progress. Ask for information on your child’s performance, results and overall observations. Take a morning off work, once a year, and attend a

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Relevant websites www.ofsted.gov.uk www.schoolinspectionservice.co.uk www.ISI.net www.bridgeschoolsinspectorate.co.uk

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King Edward’s School is one of the top academic independent day Schools in the UK for girls and boys aged 3 to 18 years. This success has been achieved through the very highest standards in teaching, the quality and dedication of our staff and the individual guidance given to our pupils to realise their full potential.

Children start in our Pre-Prep & Nursery which specialises in early years education for children aged 3 – 7 years.

Classes are small which ensures that every child receives the individual attention they need to grow into confident, enthusiastic learners. The facilities are excellent with wellequipped classrooms and safe enclosed grounds for outdoor activities.

Children join King Edward’s Junior School from age 7 years.

Whilst academic results are well above the national average, the curriculum is broad and enriched with regular off-site trips. The school enjoys excellent facilities including a newly completed state of the art Design and Technology room, drama and performance space and ICT suite The school’s approach is to foster the interests and talents of each individual. In addition there is an extensive programme of extra-curricular activities providing opportunities for all pupils to discover new activities as well as develop existing talents.

We look forward to welcoming you to our Open Events which will provide an opportunity to meet our teachers, talk to pupils and see our excellent facilities.

Please contact our Registrar on Tel: 01225 464313 or see our website, www.kesbath.com for further details.

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Your children’s education starts at home How home life can make a big difference in the education of children.

By Elisabeth Dolton What activities can be taken?

D

id you know that just by keeping books in your home you can significantly increase your children’s likelihood of going to university – and that’s irrespective of background, size of family, where they live, parents’ occupation or any other social factor?

Further research has also shown that the biggest impact on a child’s educational development is reading to them from a very early age. So if your child is starting school for the first time this year, or they are already progressing rapidly through the school years, undertaking a few small activities at home can make a huge difference to the development and education of children and powerfully build on the learning they receive from school.

Why bother...

Most of us want our children to do well at school and a parent’s role in that success cannot be underestimated.

Studies in Britain have shown that children who are supported by their families with homework are likely to perform significantly better in academic examinations at 16 years old and beyond than those who do not.

Recent reports show boys are still having difficulties with literacy (reading, writing or spelling), and girls having difficulties with numeracy, despite improvements in primary school results.

Even the best and brightest teachers can be hard pressed to address the individual needs of every child, especially in a crowded classroom. And what if your child shows a particular interest or aptitude towards a certain topic? A love of physics can start at any age. Similarly, if your child finds a topic difficult, your interest as a parent will help, no matter how well or how fast your child understands what they are being taught. Parents’ small actions can plug these gaps, support children and really boost their development.

Activities that involve reading, listening, writing, number awareness, sequencing, counting and learning to become aware of the world that surrounds them are perfect. They will help encourage a love and understanding of language, maths and science which are basic tools to boost any child’s education.

• Keep a library – A few books placed in reach of your children to pick up any time for browsing or talking about. A recent study conducted in the US found that children coming from a “bookish home” remained in education for around three years longer than young people born into families with empty bookshelves.

• Read to your children - Sharing stories and reading together are vital to the development of a child’s literacy skills.

Just ten minutes at the start or end of the day will be enough to help them to acquire the skills they need to develop as a reader.

• Download free games, activities, and worksheets online – There are many websites offering free activities that encourage basic skill development for children and keep it fun.

• Get number crunching – Talk about numbers and show them how useful numbers are in almost everything we do.

Measure their height and work out how much they have grown, spot speed signs and funny number plates, say the time out loud and how long before the next stop, compare the prices of vegetables in the supermarket and how much money you will need to pay, how long tea will take to cook, how much milk you pour on your cornflakes, etc.

• Problem solving – Encourage your children to think things through and work things out for themselves. Ask them why they think metal goes rusty, why the sky is grey, why the Police car makes a noise, etc. Point out things that are different

to home - buildings, accents, clothes, food, and customs. Experts suggest giving your child a simple map of where they are going, also following a recipe together are great techniques to boost concentration.

• Keep talking - New experiences and discoveries are always stimulating, so encourage your child to try new things.

Look for opportunities to talk to your child about their day - children enjoy sharing what they are learning.

• Put a pen in their hands - Help them develop their handwriting skills by writing words and sentences for them to copy. Point out examples of lovely handwriting and pictures when you see them, encourage them to ‘sign’ birthday and Christmas cards to their friends, and always get them to sign their own artwork.

Overall, making sure your activities with them are fun will make a real difference.

Children thrive on encouragement, someone who will listen to them when they are struggling as well as achieving.

Giving them a little personal attention that they can’t get in the classroom, all adds up to fun learning for your child and peace of mind for you that they are achieving the best they can.

5 great websites for information, tips and free worksheets...

1. www.bbc.co.uk/schools/parents/ resources 2. www.handwritingforkids.com 3. www.readingforlife.org.uk 4. www.direct.gov.uk/en/parents/ schoolslearninganddevelopment/ helpingyourchildtolearn 5. www.easyed.co.uk

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I

t’s one of the questions that is bound to be on your mind if you have a young baby: when is the right time to wean?

Over the years the guidelines have changed.

Many of our parents gave us rusks in our milk when we were only a couple of months old, and when I had my first child nearly 6 years ago I was advised to start weaning as early as 4 months. Now, many mums wait until their baby is 6 months. Either way, weaning need not be a huge chore.

When to do it Department of Health guidelines recommend that the best time to start weaning is 6 months, as it is thought the stomachs of younger babies aren’t mature enough to cope with a more diverse diet, and that early weaning can increase the risk of infections and the development of allergies like eczema and asthma.

Premature babies may not be ready by 6 months so consult your health visitor before introducing solids. Often, it’s best to be guided by your own baby. Babies can be ready for weaning if they: • show interest in the food you or your older children are eating • can stay in a sitting position and hold their head steady • can look at food, grab it and put it in their mouths by themselves • have doubled their birth weight • can swallow food. Babies who are not ready will tend to spit their food out and get more on their faces than in their mouths.

Never start weaning before your baby is 17 weeks old or put solids such as baby rice or rusk into your baby’s bottle. And remember, there is no rush to wean!

Getting started Many parents start with baby rice mixed with formula or breast milk to get them used to a new texture. Move on to sweet vegetables like carrots, sweet potato and parsnip and fruits - apple, pear, peach and mango. Mashed bananas and avocados are good choices as they don’t need to be cooked. After introducing single tastes, move on to combinations such as potato and parsnip, leak and peas, plum and pear. Once you are well established on the first foods introduce protein - fish and chicken are good as they have a mild taste and can be mixed with vegetables. As your baby starts to chew, mash their food instead of pureeing and gradually let the lumps get bigger.

By the time your baby is about seven months old it should be eating solids three times a day, which could include vegetables like courgette, broccoli and spinach as well as meat, fish, hard-boiled egg and cheese.

At around this time you can introduce finger foods such as soft-cooked carrots, pasta, slices of melon, strips of omelette or buttered toast, which encourage your baby

The great weaning debate From an original article by Joanna Parry

When to start? What is Lactose Intolerance?

Fantastic tried and tested tips to chew and will help with their pincer grip.

Always stay close to your babyy oods when they have finger foods in case they choke.

Remember, solid food shouldn’t replace formula or breast milk. Babies between the ages of 6 to 9 months still need at least 16oz of milk daily.

Top tips • choose a time of day when your baby is not ot too tired or hungry – late morning is good • add milk to new tastes to encourage baby to try them • once they’re used to a taste, move that food to the evening meal and introduce another food at lunchtime • as long as you don’t wean your baby before 6 months there’s no need to sterilise feeding utensils • puree your own food if you’ve used very little or no salt in its preparation • make purees in a large batch and freeze in ice cube trays. Once frozen pop them into labelled freezer bags You DON’T need to cook everything yourself! There are some fantastic foods on the market that are just as nutritious and ‘homemade’ as if you cooked them yourself. Just more pricey and often with packaging that is difficult to recycle.

Check out www.ellaskitchen.co.uk, www.plum-baby.co.uk, www.hipp.co.uk and www.organix.com.

kiwi. If there is a history of allergies in your y, think about delaying the family, introduct introduction of certain foods.

Start out o slowly with very bas basic purees and wait 3 da days after each food iis introduced before trying a new taste to ensure your baby doesn’t have an allergic reaction.

A Avoid nuts until 3 years of age and honey until your baby ho is 1.

La Lactose intolerance is not an aallergy but is the iinability bilit to t digest di the sugar in milk. Once the problem is dealt with and the gut has recovered the intolerance will disappear, but while the condition lasts it can be managed by using a soy-based or low-lactose formula. Most babies grow out of lactose intolerance by 6 - 9 months.

Gluten sensitivity can cause celiac disease which, although rare, can be serious. Symptoms of gluten intolerance include loss of appetite, poor growth, swollen abdomen and pale, bulky and smelly stools. Foods containing gluten i.e. anything made from wheat, rye, barley or oats should not be introduced into any baby’s diet before 6 months.

Websites on weaning www.nhs.uk www.direct.gov.uk www.wholesomebabyfood.com www.ellaskitchen.co.uk www.annabelkarmel.com

Going veggie?

There are no medical or health reasons against raising your baby as vegetarian, providing you feed them a well balanced diet. You can make sure your baby has enough iron through pulses, dried fruits, fortified cereals and green vegetables.

Vitamin C helps absorption of iron from food so include fruit or juice in the same meal as iron-rich foods. Protein can be obtained from pulses, egg, dairy products, tofu, bread and meat substitutes.

Allergies and intolerances Almost 1 in 12 young children suffer from a food allergy. Milk and egg allergies are the most common and tend to disappear before adulthood. The other common allergens are peanuts and tree nuts, fish and seafood, wheat, soy, sesame and

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On your bike!

Cycle Maintenance Part of cycling safely is ensuring that your bike is roadworthy. It is therefore essential that bikes being ridden to school are checked regularly and serviced once a year just like a car. A quick daily check should include: • Both brakes are working.

• Tyres are pumped up and wheels are not wobbling sideways.

• Handlebars and saddle are straight and tight.

• Both lights are working.

Cycology Bikes of Chippenham provide some guidance on cycling safety for kids.

Cycling to School Cycling is an ideal form of transport for young people providing a healthy, cheap and environmentally friendly way to get about, together with a degree of freedom and independence. A high proportion of children in the UK say they would prefer to cycle to school.

Cycling is about three times faster than walking, it is perfect for journeys to and from school which are too far to walk, and is an easy way to keep fit.

Safety Equipment and Clothing

Most accidents involving cars and cyclists occur at junctions, where the cyclist is not visible enough to the car driver. High visibility clothing, even during daylight hours and lights during darkness are therefore essential for the safety of children cycling to school. A conventional lamp at the front and a non-flashing red lamp at the rear are needed to be both legal and visible. An additional flashing red light worn by the cyclist, not fixed to the bike, is helpful and legal.

Always Wearing a light high visibility waterproof jacket is advisable and widely available. Reflective armbands, buy a ankle straps or tabards and reflective stickers for helmet new, bikes and bags can be purchased at a reasonable not second cost and these will also help the cyclist to be seen.

Cyclist Training

Children must be able to handle their bikes with confidence and know how to ride safely in all conditions.

They need to learn about potential hazards and how to deal with traffic.

For beginners: Start with bicycle control and handling skills practised off road, away from cars or traffic.

Intermediate: On-road experience in traffic on quieter local roads, usually for year 5 pupils and above.

Advanced: Designed for secondary school pupils, gaining experience on busier roads.

Most schools do take part in the Bikeability scheme which is ‘Cycling Proficiency’ for the 21st century, designed to give the next generation the skills and confidence to ride their bikes on today’s roads. Further details of this scheme can be found at http://www.dft.gov.uk/bikeability

hand

• • • •

Cycle helmets These are designed to give protection form a fall from a bike. To be effective they must fit and be worn correctly; Helmets must be a snug fit and remain secure on the head.

They should not obstruct the ability to see clearly or cover the ears.

They need to be positioned squarely on the head, sitting just above the eyebrows and NOT tilted back or tipped forward.

The straps should be securely fastened and not twisted, with only enough room for two fingers to be inserted between chin and strap.

Always buy a helmet new, not second hand, and make sure it conforms to one of the recognised safety standards such as BS EN 1078 SNELL CERTIFIED.

Storage Children are sometimes put off the idea of cycling to school because they have to carry heavy books, sports kit or other equipment.

Panniers fitted to a rack on the bike are the best solution but a small backpack is often sufficient. Schools can help to reduce the amount carried by providing lockers, where helmets and lights can also be stored during the school day.

Cycology Bikes have had a passion for bikes for years and can help you choose the right bike to match your activity, style and budget. They supply high quality mountain bikes, road bikes, hybrids, touring, kids bikes and more. They also have an extensive range of parts and accessories as well as a quality repairs service.

You can find Cycology Bikes at: 20 New Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire SN15 1HS. Tel: 01249 461997; www.cycologybikes.co.uk Cycology Bikes are offering Families upon Avon readers the following discounts: 5% off when spending up to £50 7.5% off when spendng between £50 and £100 10% off when spending over £100 Valid untl 31st October 2011

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Turn all your walks into workouts! Learn the much publicised Nordic Walking technique and get out into the Great Outdoors!

Dragon Day Dates: 27 October 2011 11:00am Price: Free event (normal admission charges apply). Meet ‘dragons’ Phoebe and SId as they introduce you to our day of all things dragon

Photo: David Norton

BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN BS1 6TY 01179260680 www.ssgreatbritain.org Visitors will arrive at the stunning new visitor centre, before stepping back in time to experience the hustle and bustle of a ship preparing to embark on a two-month voyage to Australia.

Through September & October Sea Hear Join professional storyteller Sarah Mooney for adventures of the high seas. Stories are tailored especially for pre-school children aged 3 to 4

year olds, but younger siblings (and older during school holidays) are welcome too. The sessions take place at 11am on the first Tuesday of each month. Under 5’s are free.

Until 31st December ‘The Incredible Journey’ Turn back the clocks and listen to the memories of those who rescued the ship from the Falkland Islands and witnessed her return, and view the stunning new animated film.

Grandparent’s Day 2 October Enjoy tea for two, when accompanied by a grandchild. Download the voucher from ssgreatbritain.org. 10am to 4pm, Dockyard Café Bar. Mr Brunel visits 22 - 30 October Meet Britain’s greatest engineer (except Wednesday). 10am to 4pm

Photo: Paul Blakemore

What’s On

Get swept up in a story as the Live Science team take you on an imaginative adventure, filled with sounds and actions - perfect for Please always phone before setting out in case engaging little ears!

Autumn night sky details have changed since our press deadline.

World Space week 4 – 10 October Come celebrate World Space EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS week in the At-Bristol Planetarium! See the amazing stars and awe-inspiring vistas of the @BRISTOL Autumn night sky – it’s out-of-this-world!

Anchor Road, Harbourside, Bristol, BS1 5DB 0117 909 2000 LACOCK ABBEY, NEAR CHIPPENHAM www.at-bristol.org.uk The National Trust The Boggling Brain show!

01249 730459 Throughout September & October www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lacock Come and join our crazy science show.

Lacock at war trail Discover what’s in our grey matter and how it Dates: 1 September to 30 September works together to let us see, speak, and… go 2011, 10:30am to 5:30pm to the toilet! (Call to check availability) Price: Free event (normal admission charges Summer night sky Planetarium show apply) Until 19 Sept (Autumn night sky show follows) A family trail out about Lacock Abbey during Please phone in advance to check times/ times of trouble. availability The Great War in and around Lacock Little Stars Planetarium show Dates: 3 September to 11 September Throughout September & October 2011, 9:30am to 5:00pm Get star struck in our Planetarium show Little Price: No Additional charges Stars A fascinating and detailed exhibition about Time: At regular intervals throughout the day people from Lacock and the surrounding during Ages: Children aged 1-4 and their families World War One. Great for family historians.

Toddler Takeover Lacock at war 30 September Dates: 3 September 2011 11:00am ‘Splish, splash, splosh!’

Price: Free event (normal admission charges is a toddler-friendly apply) day of fun-packed Matilda Talbot, who gave Lacock to the activities on with the National Trust, lived through both World Wars. theme water and Find out about her, the evacuees who attended bubbles. school in the abbey, as well as everyday life in There will be three WW2. main areas, ‘In the The Great War in Wiltshire garden’, ‘Bath time’ Dates: 8 September 2011 7:30pm and ‘By the sea’.

Price: Adult £6 (Booking Essential) Little ones will get Illustrated talk by Richard Broadhead. the chance to make Heritage Open Day giant bubbles, catch Dates: 10 September 2011 10:30am fish and float rubber ducks, splash about with Price: No Additional charges watery ‘sink or float’ experiments and much Discover Lacock for the first time, or remake its more. acquaintance and see all the changes we’ve made.

Live Lab! Pinhole Pedallers at Lacock Abbey 07 Sep - 30 Sep Dates: 11 September 2011 11:00am Free with admission to At-Bristol Price: Free event (normal admission charges Explore the new Live Lab area where you can apply). Walk into a giant portable camera - at carry out live experiments as part of our new the home of the inventor of the photographic All About Us experience. Everyday we’ll have negative at least one experiment for you to take part in Dragon Trail extracting your own DNA, see your own cells Dates: 1 October to 31 October 2011, or watch a live dissection! Ask at the ticket desk 10:30am to 5:30pm for times when you arrive.

Price: Free event (normal admission charges apply). The sequel to last year’s very popular October Half-term trail. The eggs have hatched!

Apple Day Gore Blimey!

Dates: 16 October 2011 10:30am Dissection Lab 22 – 28 October Price: Free event (normal admission charges Dr Blood 29 -30 October apply). Take a bite out of life with our popular Celebrate Halloween in At-Bristol with thrilling foot tapping, apple crunching, orchard exploring activities in Dissection lab then finish off the event! week with a visit from Dr Blood who will Lacock’s Walking Festival unearth mysteries about your blood!

Dates: 9 dates between 22 October 2011 Meet the Expert – Synthetic biology and 30 October 2011 26 October Price: No Additional charges Explore this amazing emerging field of science Discover some great new self-led walks around with experts from the Synthetic Components Lacock as part of the National Trust’s Walking Network. Find out what it is and meet experts Festival. from the many fields involved in this exciting Nordic Walking Taster Sessions topic.

Dates: 23 October 2011 11:30am and 23 Storytelling October 2011 3:00pm Times: 11.00 and 2.30 Price: No Additional charges

I’m a First Class passenger, get me out of here!

27, 29 & 30 October Challenge your taste buds with Victorian food in the first Class Dining Saloon. 11.30am & 2.30pm Food glorious food.

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Trails for children (under 8’s, and 8 to 12 years) NEW Steamship galley Explore the ship’s Victorian kitchen, and meet the residents … a cat plus rats Brunel Institute Discover the National Brunel Archive.

Check website for opening times and events brunelinstitute.org WESTONBIRT, THE NATIONAL ARBORETUM Tetbury, Glos, GL8 8QS T: 01666 880220 www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt Painting Trees at Westonbirt - Workshop Friday 9 - Sunday 11 September 9.30am 5.30pm Experience the late summer colour, the sheer diversity of shapes, patterns and colours. Residential £545.00. Non-residential £380.00. Including picnic lunch each day.

Contact Tessa Webb on 01285 651790. www. colourinthecotswolds.com The Healing Power of Trees - Guided Walk Saturday 10 September 10.30am 12.30pm Come and discover how trees have been used for medicinal purposes over the centuries. Free after admission. Booking essential. Call 01666 880220. No dogs allowed.

Specialist Wood Sales Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September & Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 October (10am - 1pm) Held on the second Saturday and Sunday of every month. All manner of wood and sawn timber is available, produced from the routine pruning and thinning of specimen trees within the arboretum. Proceeds go to the Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum (only cash or cheques are accepted).

Free after admission Forest Discovery Day Sunday 11 September Celebrate the International Year of Forests at this special event taking place at Forestry Commission sites across the country.

Hope for Tomorrow - Charity Walk Friday 16 September 4.30pm A five km fundraising walk for Hope for Tomorrow, a national cancer charity, which helps those with cancer, their families and dependants.

Contact Tracy Lodge on 01666 505055 or email info@hopefortomorrow.org.uk Hearing Dogs - Charity Walk Sunday 18 September 11.30am A two mile walk for Hearing Dogs supporters and their four-legged friends around Silk Wood.

Contact Marilyn Sydenham on 01656 872707 A Week in the Woods - Workshop Monday 19 - Friday 23 September Five days of inspiring traditional woodland skills and craft training including green woodworking, bush craft and woodland management. £350.00, includes food, materials and camping Booking essential: contact Ruth Goodfellow on 07794 054623 or email rgoodf@hotmail.com Autumn Fruits and Berries - Guided Walk Saturday 24 September & Saturday 8 October 11am - 12.30pm Discover the reasons behind the many shapes and sizes of seed packages and see Westonbirt’s wonderful autumn colour. Free after admission. Booking essential. call 01666 880220. No dogs allowed.

Greyhound Rescue - Charity Walk Sunday 25 September 11.30am

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Contact Charlotte Lewis at grweglosevents@ grwe.com Alzheimer’s Society - Charity Walk Sunday 25 September 1pm A fundraising memory walk. Contact Ian Horlick on 07733 086100 Woody Women - Workshops Wednesday 28 - Thursday 29 September: Ruth Goodfellow, 07794 054623, Email rgoodf@hotmail.com Saturday 1 - Sunday 2 October: Jenna Higgins on 07921 256466 or email jennahiggins@ymail.com A two day course to empower women by learning the effective use of tools, woodland management, tree folklore and woodland crafts. Cost £140.00 including lunch, camping and materials.

The Fungi at Westonbirt and their Trees Guided Walk Saturday 1 October 10.30am-12.30pm and 2-4pm Saturday 29 October 10.30am-12.30pm & 2-4pm Join Dave Shorten from the Cotswold Fungus Group to explore Westonbirt’s remarkable diversity of fungi. Meet in the Education Centre. £8 per adult, £5 per child (in addition to admission). Call 01666 880220 to book. No dogs allowed.

FLEET AIR MUSEUM Fleet Air Arm Museum, RNAS Yeovilton, Somerset BA22 8HT www.fleetairarm.com Autumn Radio Controlled Model Show 22 October With more radio controlled traders and clubs booked to appear than in previous years, over 2,000 model aircraft enthusiasts are anticipated at the Fleet Air Arm Museum’s Autumn Model Tickets for the Museum, which include the Model Show, are available now on-line.

Broadway & Big Band Concert 28 October The final concert in a series of three to celebrate the opening of the Fleet Air Arm Museum’s Swordfish Centre will take place on Friday. Two award winning bands, HMS Heron Volunteer Band and Berties Big Band will perform in an evening of Broadway and Big Band Music. Doors will open at 7.30. Tickets cost £8.50 and are available from the Museum shop or online from www.fleetairarm.com

COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK Burford Oxfordshire OX18 4JP www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk September (Fri & Sat) 2/3, 9/10, 16/17, 23/24 Wild Nights at the Park September 17/18 Talk like a Pirate Weekend

September 24/25 Rhino Weekend September 5 - 30 Wild Gardeners Walk October 2 Grandparents’ Day October 3 - 9 Amazing Animal Week BRISTOL ZOO GARDENS Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3HA www.bristolzoo.org.uk Chilli and Chocolate Festival Sat 17 & Sun 18 September 9am – 5.30pm Latin music from Vamos! (Sat) and K’chevere (Sun) chilli displays, stalls, salsa workshops and chilli and chocolate inspired fare. Plus learn about the history of chocolate in Bristol. Visit www.bristolzoo.org.uk for full details.

Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th September Identifying birds along the Avon (Course) On Friday evening, Ed Drewitt will introduce the birds we’re likely to see in the Avon Gorge and along the River Avon and a guided boat tour along the river to identify birds. Fri 7.00pm - 9.00pm and Sat 2.15pm - 6.45pm £30.00 (including a Bristol Ferry Boat Company trip through the Gorge). Book with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 9030609 Sunday 25th September Gorge-ous geology (Walk) Take advantage of the Bridge Valley Road closure by exploring the fascinating geology of the Avon Gorge with Andrew Mathieson10.30am 12.30pm £4.00. NB: This is a very strenuous walk which involves some steep paths and steps. Book with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 9030609 Friday 30th September and Saturday 1st October Identifying fungi 1 (Course) On Friday evening, expert Justin Smith will introduce us to the wonderful world of fungi through an illustrated talk andforay in Leigh Woods before returning to the Zoo to identify our finds. Fri 7.00pm - 9.00pm and Sat 10.00am - 3.30pm £25.00 Run in conjunction with the National Trust and Forestry Commission.

Book with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 9030609 Tuesday 11th October Goats in the Gully (Talk) Join Chris Westcott from Natural England to discover how these hairy conservationists are helping to restore flower-rich grasslands in this special area of the Avon Gorge. 7.00pm 8.00pm £3.00. Book with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 9030609 Saturday 15th October Meet the goat keepers (Walk) In the summer a flock of six goats moved into an area of the gorge know as the Gully. Meet their keepers and find out where the goats have come from and about the important conservation job that they’re doing. 10.30am 12.00pm £3.00 Book with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 9030609 Halloween Festival Sat 22 – Sun 30 October Walter the Wizard’s Halloween Hunt Look out for Walter the Wizard and get your claws on a free scratch trail card with yummy treats for those who complete it.

Pumpkin carving competition Fri 28 Oct Create a pumpkin promenade by bringing a carved or decorated pumpkin to the Zoo.

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Judging and prize giving 12.30pm on the Main Lawn.

Fancy dress competition Fri 28 Oct Come dressed in your favourite Halloween costume for some fancy dress fun. Judging and prize giving1pm on the Main Lawn. Free child entry – valid 28 October with a full paying adult & donated pumpkin.

Thursday 27th October Autumn antics (Children’s holiday event for 8 – 12 year olds) Get arty on the Downs! Using seeds, nuts and berries we’ll create some colourful autumn art. 10.00am – 3.30pm £8.50 per child. Children will need to bring their own packed lunch.

Book with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 9030609 Friday 28th and Saturday 29th October Identifying fungi 2 (Course) Our fungi courses are always popular so here’s another chance to take part if you couldn’t make the first course. Fri 7.00pm - 9.00pm and Sat 10.00am - 3.30pm £25.00. Run in conjunction with the National Trust and Forestry Commission. Book with the Avon Gorge & Downs Wildlife Project on 0117 9030609 THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM Great Pulteney Street, Bath BA2 4DB 01225 388588, holburne@bath.ac.uk www.holburne.org Our workshops for pre-school children are in the Gardener’s Lodge To book or for further information please contact us Tel 01225 388576 or email s.homes@bath.ac.uk Brilliant Babes – 0-8 months. Tuesdays, 1-3pm £8 Make your own art whilst your baby explores a safe and colourful environment. Meet other adults for a chat, coffee and to share new creative experiences.

Yearlings – 8 to 24 months Mondays & Tuesdays, 10.30am-12pm £7.50 Relax with singing and multi-sensory activities for children and their adults.

Toddlealongs – 2 to 5 years Fridays, 10.30am-12pm and 1-2.30pm £7.50 Enjoy singing, storytelling, making things and being together in a relaxed atmosphere.

Story Time for Under 5s. Wednesdays, 11am Free Come with us on a magical carpet ride and hear a real Museum object or painting reveal its marvellous story. Meet near our reception desk.

Saturday Art Club – 5 to 11 years. In the Clore Learning Space Saturdays 10, 17, 24 September, 1, 8, 15, 29 October, 5, 12, 19 November, 10.30am-12.30pm £8 Explore a variety of different techniques and materials with our experienced and friendly team of artists.

24 September, 1 to 2.30pm Wind Gardener’s Lodge £8 A workshop suitable for children aged 4-6 years to complement the children’s performance of Wind at the egg theatre. Explore what happens when the wind blows through art, collage and story telling.

Wind performances @ the egg. 24 & 25 11.30am & 3pm; 26 & 27 10am & 1pm. Suitable for age 2 to 6yrs. Tickets available from the egg Box Office 01225 823409 25 September 2.30 to 3.30pm Clore Learning Space Peter Brown at the Mini-Bath Prize, Free Family Event Local landscape artist Peter Brown, affectionately known as “Pete the Street”, will inspire young people to paint. He works in charcoal oil and pastel and is usually found outside painting from life, even in the worst weather, so we are delighted to have tempted him inside the Holburne for this master class.

2 October, 2 to 3.30pm A Magical Art Event with James Mayhew Join James Mayhew, creator of the wonderful Katie stories which introduce young children to art. £6 (tickets available from Bath Box Office 01225 463362). In partnership with the Bath Festival of Children’s Literature Saturday 22 October, 12noon to 5pm The Big Draw – Time Travel Drawing Free Family Event The world of Dr Who meets Georgian Bath at the Holburne as we look at the importance of drawing through the ages. Come and meet some of your favourite time-travelling characters as you explore the Museum and use darkness to experience the marvels of ‘light drawing’.

SCHOOL EVENTS St Margaret’s Preparatory School Curzon Street, Calne, Wiltshire SN11 0DF 01249 857220 (school office) www.stmargaretsprep.org.uk Open morning Thursday 13 October 9.30am-Midday.

We ask parents to register by calling 01249 857379 Friends of Neston School – Fireworks Display 5 November at Neston Recreation Ground Gate Open 5pm – Lighting of Bonfire 6pm – Fireworks 6.45pm Advance tickets: Adult £3.50, Child £1.50. On the gate: Adult £4.00, Child £2.00. Tickets available from Hawthorn Stores in Westwells Neston, Neston Country Inn, Oakleys Newsagent & Green Ginger in Corsham.

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A FAMILY TICKET TO BRISTOL ZOO A visit to Bristol Zoo Gardens is an adventure into an exciting animal kingdom, all set within 12 acres of beautiful grounds and a a award-winning gardens. Visitors will come face to face with over 4 species of exotic, endangered and adorable animals from the 400 f four corners of the globe, including the new twin lion cubs, Jay a Kaly. and Visitors to Bristol Zoo can see their family of gorillas, stroll through the tropical Butterfly Forest or become immersed in the impressive Seal and Penguin Coast. Some other Zoo favourites include Monkey Jungle, Reptile house, Asiatic lions, Bug World, Twilight World, and the Aquarium.

Throughout 2011 Bristol Zoo Gardens will be celebrating a landmark birthday – 175!

To celebrate this milestone birthday, Bristol Zoo has planned an exciting series of events in a city-wide celebration of all that is great about Bristol Zoo Gardens and the city as a whole.

Look out for Garden Delights throughout September, Chilli & Chocolate festival on 18th and 19th September featuring 175 different varieties of chilli plants and lots of choco goodness, Walter the Wizard’s Halloween Hunt during October half term and our Bangless Bonfire Nights on 4th and 5th November.

Go to www.bristolzoo.org.uk for more information and to buy tickets.

For an opportunity to win a family ticket to Bristol Zoo just go to www.bristolzoo.org.uk/familiesuponavon and complete the entry form.

FOR SALE If you are a bright, sociable Mum interested in owning your own business but with the flexibility to work part-time hours that fit around your family then this could be your perfect opportunity!

As the next editor/owner of Families upon Avon you will join a friendly group of fellow mums from around the UK running your own franchise of Families Magazines Limited.

The Families group of magazines has been expanding since the very first issue in South West London in 1990. Everyone is friendly, helpful and tips and advice are always available.

No particular qualifications are needed but it does help if you are confident, express yourself well, know your way around a computer, can drive and live in or nearby the area of your franchise.

If you would like to discuss this unique opportunity, please e-mail me at editor@familiesuponavon.co.uk

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