Families Hampshire West Mar/Apr 2024 DIGITAL issue

Welcome

Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to get back outdoors! To entice you, we have some fabulous family walks from our friends at The Outdoor Guide, as well as some interesting outdoor spring activities for the kids to try. You can even find out how to teach them some Forest School skills in this issue.

It’s a packed couple of months with Mother’s Day and Easter just round the corner. Find something fabulous that dad can bake with the kids for Mother’s Day. Then, check our top recommendations for Easter eggs, take a look at our free Easter printables which will keep the kids busy and download our Easter chick craft activity.

Finally, in this issue, we have tonnes of fabulous giveaways on offer. By applying, you can ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Competition winners from our November/December issue

Congratulations to all our winners. You

Author inspires St Swithun’s Prep School students

St Swithun’s Prep School welcomed author Jenny McLachlan for a visit that left a lasting impression on students and staff.

Jenny shared insights into her creative process and inspired students to explore their own writing talents. Throughout the day, she emphasized the joy of reading, aligning with the school’s commitment to fostering literacy skills among its students. Students also had the opportunity to have their books signed by Jenny.

Reflecting on the event, Head of Prep Liz Norris stated, ‘We were delighted to welcome Jenny. Her visit provided a memorable and enriching experience for our students.’ Jenny added, ‘I had a wonderful visit. What a special school St Swithun’s is. It was lovely to see how much time the teachers spend making sure the girls learn, have fun and are happy. The girls themselves were an absolute delight: curious, kind and funny!’

Find out more HERE.

ST SWITHUN’S PREP SCHOOL IS A WORLD CLASS, HIGH PERFORMANCE LEARNING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AGED 4-11 WITH A CO-ED PRESCHOOL.

EYFS Spring Trail and Activity Afternoon

Friday 22 March, 1.45pm – 3.15pm

Parents and their nursery aged children who are looking for preschool or reception class entry 2024 or 2025 are warmly invited to our fun-filled spring themed activity afternoon.

Trail to begin at 2pm and finish at 2.30pm, there will then be activities for the children and a Q&A for parents with Head of EYFS Sue Powell and Prep Head Liz Norris.

Scan here to register:

Developing a positive attitude towards learning

By Gail Hugman

No matter how skilled or knowledgeable a person might be, their attitude may well be the deciding factor in their future success, both personal and professional.

The second a child is born, its brain, with roughly eighty six billion neurons or nerve cells, ‘hits the ground running’ making connections through senses and experience.

Everything a young child does, feels, hears and sees creates pathways between these nerve cells, building a reference bank of experience. In the first three years, the connections the brain makes have risen to one thousand trillion. This is an automatic process. Ninety percent of brain development is complete by the time a child is 5 years old.

Although there is a default setting for the brain to function whether we engage or not, when it comes to learning, children who are actively engaged in the learning process are

going to be far more effective and therefore, higher achieving than their peers who are simply ‘going through the motions’ of learning.

The child who loves practising the guitar is going to progress more quickly than the child who battles with you or resents practising!

The reason for this is that as we grow, the brain takes its lead from what we do repeatedly. Where we make a conscious decision to put effort is where the brain will focus connections.

Children who enjoy what they’re doing, who love learning, who have a positive attitude, actively engage. Active engagement creates the signal for the connections the brain makes to be ‘cemented’ in myelin, a coating of fat and protein which make it ‘automatic.’ This is how learning is assimilated and habits are created.

Continued on page 7

Top educational gaming options for kids

Gaming isn’t all bad – there are lots of options which can benefit your child’s learning and development.

Minecraft

Fosters creativity, problem-solving and collaboration. Ages 7+.

SimCity Simulation game that develops planning, resource management and civic awareness. Ages 7+.

LEGO Worlds

Allows players to build and explore Lego creations. Ages 7+.

Karate Cats

A game that helps KS1 students with spelling and grammar. Ages 3+.

Sesame Street: Once Upon a Monster

Teaches empathy, cooperation and selfconfidence. Ages 3+.

Animal Crossing Simulates social interactions, community and nature. Ages 3+.

DragonBox

A series of fun games introducing algebra and geometry. Ages 3+.

LittleBigPlanet

Promotes creativity, design and teamwork. Ages 7+.

Zoo Tycoon

Teaches animal care, conservation and business skills. Ages 3+

Developing a positive attitude towards learning

By Gail Hugman

Continued from page 5

The brain doesn’t know whether what we’re doing is good or not, it just takes its lead from repetitious behaviour and feedback from our surroundings, in this case, parents and teachers.

The more positive our attitude, the more positive the connections and growth we make, which can lead to excellence in performance.

Gail Hugman is a teaching and learning expert at Lessons Alive

Great podcasts for kids

Take a pick from our fabulous recommendations and find something that will really engage your child.

Girl Tales

A long-running podcast that reimagines fairytales through an empowering lens. Ages 4+.

But Why?

Kids ask questions and get answers from experts on various topics. Ages 5+.

The Story Seeds Podcast

Pairs young writers with professional authors. Ages 7+.

The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd

A time-travelling adventure series for kids.

Ages 5-8.

The Past and The Curious

A history podcast that makes learning fun for kids of all ages.

The Big Fib

A fast-paced game show that challenges kids to spot the liar. Ages 7+.

Unspookable

A family-friendly take on popular urban legends, scary stories and myths.

Ages 8+.

Brains On!

A science podcast that answers curious questions from kids.

Ages 8+.

Marvellous Musical Podcast

Fun, engaging intro to classical music and composers. Ages 7+.

Create Your Story with King Edward VI School

May 2024

Taster Mornings

Thursday 9 May |

Thursday 16 May |

9.45am - 12.45pm

For children currently in Years 5 & Year 7 who are thinking of joining us in September 2025.

Our Taster Morning events are a fantastic way for parents and children to experience our school. During the event families will have the chance to meet the Head, explore the school and grounds, learn more about King Edward's and join us for lunch.

Tuesday 21 May

Please

Enhancing English Skils through the EAL Hub

The Gregg Preparatory School work with young people from all cultural backgrounds. Thanks to their central Southampton location, they attract many multilingual pupils and have set up an EAL Hub for children wishing to learn, or improve on English as an Additional Language (EAL).

Lessons are taught by qualified EAL teachers, in a dedicated classroom. Attending the EAL Hub gives children the chance to learn with other non, or limited, english speakers, in small groups facilitating their confidence in learning.

Whilst learning english comes naturally from spending time with other english speaking pupils and teachers, The Gregg Prep have seen that by providing specific support around english, children progress their english fluency in reading, writing and speaking at a greater pace and they integrate easily into school life.

More information about the EAL Hub HERE or call 02380 557352.

Prince’s Mead School awarded RHS Award

Prince’s Mead School has been awarded Level 4 in the prestigious Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) School Gardening Award. Thanks to the enthusiasm of teachers and generous donations from the Prince’s Mead Association, pupils get lots of opportunity to learn about gardening and the plethora of wildlife on their doorstep.

Lucy Brown, Head of Pre-Prep and Gardening Club Lead, expressed her excitement on receiving the Award: ‘We are incredibly proud to achieve the RHS School Gardening Award Level 4. It’s a reflection of our school’s dedication to providing an enriching and holistic education that goes beyond the classroom.’

The achievement of this Award will continue to reinforce the Prince’s Mead ethos of developing a lifelong love of learning, curiosity about the world we live in and a desire to contribute to it.

More information HERE.

Teach your kids Forest School skills

Shelter building

Build a den for toys using natural materials. (Ages 2-4)

Erect a temporary shelter making use of woodland materials. (Ages 5-7)

Create a tarpaulin shelter in a woodland. (Ages 8-9)

Make a tipi shelter with camouflage. (Ages 10-11)

Use tools

Safely use a soft hammer to bash leaves. (Ages 2-4)

Use secateurs and loppers to cut wood safely and make something from natural materials. (Ages 5-7)

Whittle a stick safely or use a bow saw to cut wood into sections. (Ages 8-9)

Use a saw independently to make a tree cookie. (Ages 10-11)

How to light a campfire

Cooking with fire

Toast marshmallows - a fun introduction to cooking with fire. (Ages 2-4)

Melt chocolate or make popcorn on an open fire. (Ages 5-7)

Bake damper bread on a stick or fry scotch or Welsh cakes. (Ages 8-9)

Make and tend a campfire safely and cook roast food. (Ages 10-11)

Navigation

Teach little ones map reading with this Easter Egg treasure hunt map. (Ages 3-7)

Learn basic map symbols with Map Symbol Bingo downloadable. (Ages 5-7)

Make a simple orienteering course around your home or garden. (Ages 8-9)

Combine map reading and compass skills with handy guides and videos. (Ages 10-11)

BRAAIN – the parent information network

Do you have a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or other special needs? BRAAIN can provide the information you need.

BRAAIN is an information network for parents of children with ADHD and autism across the Hampshire and Surrey Borders.From details on specialist schools in the area, to accessing professional help, to finding out about clubs for your child and support groups for you, BRAAIN are here to help make life a little easier on your journey.

Whether your child is facing a new diagnosis, has recently been diagnosed or has been diagnosed for many years, there is a wealth of information available to help you.

Find out more HERE.

Weekends

Enjoy Easter adventures

in Hampshire

23 Mar – 14 Apr Mottisfont & The Vyne

29 Mar – 14 Apr Hinton Ampner

£3 per trail, includes a Rainforest Alliance Easter egg.

nationaltrust.org.uk/hampshire

© National Trust 2020. Registered Charity no. 205846. Photography © National Trust Images / James Dobson

WHAT’S ON

Join the birthday adventure at Alice Holt

The Gruffalo is celebrating his 25th birthday with a brand-new forest adventure, the Gruffalo Party Trail at Alice Holt Forest.

The interactive family trail features party-themed activities and games, along with fun facts to teach you about life in the forest for the Gruffalo and other creatures. Follow the trail to help find the missing party items to give the Gruffalo a birthday to remember.

Pick up your pack for just £4, packed with fun things to do on your party adventure. Whilst you’re there, why not try and find the Gruffalo sculptures too. Plus, enjoy the play areas and treat yourself to something from the popular café.

The trail is ongoing throughtout the year.

More information HERE.

Easter Adventures with the National Trust

At Mottisfont from 23 March to 14 April, 10am-5pm, experience all the fun of a spring fete with welly wanging, egg-sercises, bunny bowling and hoopla. There’ll be a craft activity to make and take home and a springthemed selfie station, too.

Head to Hinton Ampner from 29 March to 14 April, 10am-4.30pm, tackle a ring toss competition in the walled garden, race like a rabbit along the old driveway and leap like a hare on the woodland loop.

Visit The Vyne from 23 March to 14 April, 10am-4pm, enjoy fun challenges such as wheelbarrow racing, target practice, egg and spoon racing and an Easter egg puzzle before heading to the trail finish to collect your prize.

Parking is free and picnics are welcome, there are tea rooms for refuelling and a gift shop. Normal admission applies plus £3 per trail, includes bunny ears and a chocolate egg or a vegan and Free-From Rainforest Alliance egg.

More information HERE.

GO EAST at Monkey World this Easter

This Easter, Monkey World will be fundraising to put rescued and rehabilitated gibbons, loris and douc back into the wild from their sister sanctuary, Dao Tien, in Vietnam, ran by charity EAST (Endangered Asian Species Trust).

Visitors can learn about our agile acrobats, the gibbons, their plight in the wild, and how Monkey World’s charity, EAST, is boosting the wild population of goldencheeked gibbons in Vietnam.

This year is a bumper year of release for EAST, who are returning rescued and endangered loris, gibbons and doucs from the black market trade back to protected forest to help grow the wild population.

Monkey World will be supporting the charity this Easter holiday, through talks, activities, games and stalls all about it’s work in Vietnam!

Visit HERE to find out more.

Enjoy an Easter island escape

If you’re looking for a family break with a difference, why not sail to the Isle of Wight with Red Funnel?

Escape the hassle of airports or long drives, and start your holiday in style with a short, relaxing crossing from Southampton. On board, you can indulge in a great variety of food, snacks, and drinks, not to mention free Wi-Fi to keep everyone entertained.

Upon arrival in East Cowes, you’ll already feel a world away from home – ready to discover something wonderfully different. Boasting over 25 beaches, 50 unique attractions and countless miles of trails to explore, the Isle of Wight ensures there really is something for everyone in the family to enjoy – all within less than an hours’ drive. From fascinating dinosaur fossils, historic lighthouses, and local breweries, to serene botanic gardens, hidden coves, and heartwarming animal sanctuaries – the Island is a treasure trove of delightfully diverse experiences. More information HERE.

There’s a Monster in Your Show Live at MAST

Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures for big imaginations are leaping from page to stage, as the beloved ‘Who’s in Your Book?’ series makes its debut as a brand-new musical show at MAST Mayflower Studios from Thursday 25 to Saturday 27 April.

A group of performers are preparing to start their show, but quickly discover they are not alone on stage. Little Monster wants to be part of the fun too! With an invitation to his friends, Dragon, Alien and Unicorn to join him, you can expect comedy and chaos as they help to create a magical show, learning about the joy of books and friendship along the way.

A high-energy 50-minute adventure featuring lively original music, this show is the perfect introduction to live theatre.

Find out more and book HERE.

Spring into Easter at WSC with Boom & Bloom

Hop on over to Winchester Science Centre this March and April for the return of Boom & Bloom between Saturday 16 March and Monday 15 April, including every day during the Easter school holidays.

There’ll be all the usual Science Centre fun like hands-on exhibits, exciting live demos and minibeast adventures, plus even more to excite children aged 5 to 12 and their families - all included with admission.

Solve the puzzles to earn an Easter treat and find out the difference between rabbits and hares in the Eggs-travaganza Easter Hunt and discover all about the science of a childhood favourite, bubbles, in the funfilled 20-minute live show, Bubble Trouble.

And don’t forget all the other hands-on fun on offer!

More information HERE.

Top Mother’s Day bakes

Grab dad and head to the kitchen to bake an extra-special gift for mum.

Rhubarb and orange custard tart

This tangy rhubarb custard tart includes orange for added zest.

Vanilla cupcakes

Decorate with buttercream and a topping of your choice.

Easy chocolate cake

This chocolate cake recipe is super easy and quick to make.

I love mum biscuits

The perfect way for little ones to learn letters while they bake.

Chocolate fridge cake

No-bake cake - simple to make. Ideal treat for the special day!

No-back orange cheesecake

An easy cheesecake for kids to prepare with just a little supervision.

Lemon and blueberry loaf cake

A simple, springtime lemon and blueberry loaf cake.

Butterfly cakes

These classic bakes are great for kids or baking novices.

Luscious lemon pudding

Simple ingredients and easy for kids to help with.

Ultimate Activity Camps offer outstanding activity day camps (Monday to Friday from 8am-6pm) for children aged 4 to 14, during the Easter and summer holidays.

The Ofsted-regulated camps guarantee parents peace of mind, knowing their children will have a fantastic and wellcared-for experience. From sports and survival camps to art and tech adventures, there’s something for every imagination.

Their dedicated staff prioritise safety, creating a supportive environment where kids grow, learn and form lifelong bonds. Adventures, challenges and memories are abound, all with rigorous safety protocols in place.

Your child will boost confidence, resilience and self-esteem whilst having the best time.

Find out more HERE.

EASTER

Best Easter Eggs 2024

Take a look at our selection and choose something your kids will love!

Cocoba Candy Bean Egg

£11.95 250g

Belgian milk chocolate decorated with chocolate drizzle and candy beans.

Toast & Marmalade Easter Sandwich

£10.95 135g

Two slices of luxurious chocolate with a chocolate egg.

M&S Chocosaurus Rex

£6 135g

T-Rex shaped hollow milk chocolate surprise.

H!P Oat M!lk Salted Caramel Egg

£10 160g

Chocolate oat milk egg with salted caramel and chocolate buttons.

Moo Free Strawberry Sundae Egg

£4.50 85g

White choc alternative. Strawberry flavour & marshmallows.

Chocolate Gonks

£15 230g

Colourful characters made of milk, white and dark Belgian chocolate.

Bryn the Welsh Dragon

£8.99 180g

Fuses together sweet milk chocolate with Welsh legend.

Make Your Own Chocolate Easter Egg

£14 300g

Plastic moulds, chocolate for melting and sweets for decoration.

Thorntons Unicorn Egg

£4.50 151g

Milk chocolate egg with unicorn decoration.

Easter activity printables

Perfect for when you’re out and about, when you need a break or when your kids need some downtime.

Peter Rabbit

Maze

Help Peter Rabbit find his lost chicks.

We’re Going on an Egg Hunt Activity Pack

Fun activity pack based on book.

Mr Bunny’s Chocolate Factory

Maze

Can you help Mr Bunny find his chocolate eggs?

How to draw a chicken

See if you can draw a chicken using this activity sheet.

The Odd Egg: Colour by Numbers Follow the colour key to complete this scene.

Number Easter Egg Hunt

Colour the eggs, cut them out, then hide them around the house.

Make a Hungry Hen Headress

This hen-shaped headdress is a great alternative to bunny ears.

Pip & Henry Easter holidays eco activity pack

Easter crafts, games and activities.

Paddington’s Easter Egg Hunt

Activity Sheets

Fun Easter activities with everyone’s favourite bear.

Fabulous buggy-friendly walks

Our friends at The Outdoor Guide are passionate about making the great outdoors accessible to all. Check out their buggy-friendly walks.

River Ness & Ness Islands, Inverness

Experience a walk full of nature with some city sights along the banks of the River Ness, taking in Ness Islands. You may be at the gateway to the Highlandsbut you don’t need to go further for a lovely walk.

READ MORE

War Memorial Park, Coventry

This 48.5 hectare park is just a stone’s throw from the centre of Coventry and offers buggy friendly pathways, open space for little ones to run free and a cafe to grab an ice cream. Make sure you take a moment to enjoy the Japanese Peace garden on your walk.

READ MORE

Arundel Park, West Sussex

This lovely walk, just a short distance from the centre of Arundel, takes you into the West Sussex countryside. The boating lake at the start gets busy but you’ll soon feel like you’re miles away from anywhere.

READ MORE

Cliveden House, Buckinghamshire

The National Trust managed grounds at Cliveden House are great for a buggy-friendly family walk. The Story Book Den is bound to capture the imagination of your little ones. Plus there’s the all-important cafe at the end of the trail for a well-earned cuppa and snack.

READ MORE

Fabulous buggy-friendly walks

Our friends at The Outdoor Guide are passionate about making the great outdoors accessible to all. Check out their buggy-friendly walks.

Monsal Trail, Peak District

Following the old route of the Midland Railway Line, this walk takes you along one segment of the trail, which is all fully accessible - perhaps you’ll want to do more another day?

READ MORE

Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire

The largest monastic ruin in the country and a designated World Heritage site, Fountains Abbey is a truly special place. The accessible paths are great for your buggies and there’s a great play area for little ones after your walk.

READ MORE

Golders Hill Park Sensory Walk, London

This walk really is a delight for all the senses - the sound of bird song, the smell of the flowers, beautiful woodlands to see - and tasty cake at the end! What more could you possibly want?

READ MORE

SW Coast Path, Mt Edgcumbe, Cornwall

This is a great circular walk that offers views out across The Sound towards Plymouth. There’s also wide open spaces for your littles ones to run around and a beach for some rock pooling fun. During summer months, there’s also a lovely cafe serving delicious refreshments.

READ MORE

Outdoor activities for spring

Spring is in the air! Time to choose an activity and head outdoors with the kids….

Go on a bluebell walk

Find your closest bluebell wood using this Wildlife Trust list.

Fly a kite

Learn how to fly a kite in just 3 minutes.

Spring stargazing

Top tips for spring stargazing from the National Trust.

Grow sunflowers

Grow these spectacular flowers easily with this kit. £5.59

Raise tadpoles at home

Learn how to care for tadpoles and raise them into frogs.

Build a den

Check out this handy guide from the Woodland Trust.

Spring scavenger hunt

The thrill of a treasure hunt combined with learning.

Grow butterflies

Watch the magic of a butterfly’s metamorphosis in your own home. £21.

Go paddling

Find a paddle-friendly route on a nearby canal or river.

MAKE AN EASTER CHICK CUP

Looking forward to Easter?

Try this Easter craft from our friends at Orchard Toys to get everyone in the mood

Essential family travel accessories

Heading away for an Easter break? Don’t miss these essentials when you pack!

Hanging wash bag

Lightweight. Sits flat in your luggage. Unzip and hang. £36.

Family document organiser

A must-have to ensure a smooth journey to your destination. £30.

Compact travel cot

Compact and lightweight, this cot can double as a playpen. £45.

Electronic accessories organiser

Ensure your family’s cables and chargers are not lost. £16.99

Travel First Aid kit

Essential for scrapes, bumps and burns. £12.

Travel game set

Travel-sized 3-in-1 version of classic games. £16.

Travel towels

Soft microfibre towels. No soggy towel, no odour, no bulk. £42.

Reusable bamboo drink straws

For cans, bottled soft drinks, smoothies and milkshakes. £6.95.

Travel toddler & child booster seat

Transforms into portable carry bag. Store bottles, nappies, snacks and more. £26.

Adventure travel for families

We asked Ashley Lutz from Travel Counsellors for her recommendations for those who have a sense of adventure.

New Zealand

Think volcanoes, thermal springs, beaches, cityscapes and offshore islands

Sri Lanka

Think exotic wildlife, ancient forts, captivating culture, peaceful villages, safaris and beaches.

Pyrenees

Think hiking, cycling, zip-lining, rafting, horseriding and fishing – off the beaten track.

Switzerland

Think action - rope parks, toboggan runs, swimming/boating, mountain hiking and biking.

South Africa

Think ‘big five’ safaris, cosmopolitan Cape Town and even Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Iceland

Think one of the most impressive wonders of the natural world .

Canada

Think outdoors - Niagara Falls, the Rockies, whale/ bear spotting round Vancouver Island.

Bali

Think rainforests, gorges, rice paddies, snorkelling, white water rafting, delicious street food.

Costa Rica

Think national parks, unspoilt landscapes, cloud forests, volcanoes, sandy beaches.

Sea Monkeys Mini Pet Activity Bundles

Ages 6+

Everything you need to hatch, grow and nurture your own swimming pets!

Bundles include:

Sea Monkeys Ocean Zoo

Sea Monkeys On Mars Tank

Sea Monkeys Magic Castle Tank

Sea Monkeys Instant Life Mystery Egg

Ages 6+