F R TAKE EE ME HOM E
Issue 107 May/June 2022 familiesonline.co.uk
familiesonline.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 1
COMING UP AT OXFORD PLAYHOUSE THIS SUMMER! THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA Thu 2 to Sat 4 June
DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE Thu 7 to Sat 9 July
Illustrations Copyright © Kerr-Kneale Productions Ltd 1968
ZOG AND THE FLYING DOCTORS
Fri 19 to Sun 21 August Zog and the Flying Doctors. © 2016 Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Published by Alison Green Books, an imprint of Scholastic Children’s Books.
DRAGONS & MYTHICAL BEASTS
Fri 26 to Sun 28 August
CINDERELLA
Fri 25 November 2022 to Sun 8 January 2023
PIGS MIGHT FLY
Based on Michael Morpurgo’s Mudpuddle Farm
Mon 24 to Sat 29 October Box Office:
01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com
Contents & Competitions
Dear Reader, With children’s mental health reaching crisis point, in this issue we have included lots of advice for parents on how to spot the signs of mental health issues in young people, where to get help and how to help prevent mental health issues in your home. Longer days and sunny weekends make it easier to get outside as a family, as latest statistics show, family time is key to a healthy mind, so why not plan a day out; with plenty of inspiration in our ‘What’s On’ pages. Please remember to mention ‘Families’ when booking.
@FamiliesOxonMag
What's in this issue?
Wise w o If you can dre rds a
m it, you ca n do it . Walt D isney
facebook.com/familieseastoxfordshiremag
4.
News & Views
7.
Baby News
8.
What’s On
11.
How to teach kids about money
12.
Meet the Head
13.
Lessons in helping your child improve their mental health
14. The importance of routines 15.
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EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336, editor@familiesOxfordshire.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA: Amanda Dawson, admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap, info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net
Clubs and Classes
22,000 copies of Families Oxfordshire available through schools, nurseries, hospitals, clubs and classes, selected shops and restaurants. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.
Families Oxfordshire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Oxfordshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Oxfordshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Oxfordshire its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
A FAMILY TICKET* TO DINOSAUR WORLD LIVE AT OXFORD PLAYHOUSE, 7TH – 9TH JULY Dare to experience the dangers and delights in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. A special meet and greet after the performance offers all brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Suitable for ages 3+ To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket, please visit our Facebook page @familieseastoxfordshiremag, like and share our competition post and like @OxfordPlayhouseTheatre Facebook page too. Good luck.
* Family ticket is for 4 people (maximum 2 adults)
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Families Oxfordshire 3
News & Views
Dreamy cloud prints from P.O.P The Wateraid collection features gorgeous organic loungewear for babies and children aged 0-12, with two legging and top sets for ages 1-12 and two babygrows for ages 0-2 years, perfect for a cosy day indoors or the comfiest night’s sleep. Two striking prints are available, including PO.P’s iconic stripes in a beautiful new limitededition sky blue and a simply dreamy cloud print. www.polarnopyret.co.uk
Air Up
With summer fast approaching and warmer weather, it is essential that children drink plenty of water. Dehydration can be the source of a variety of health and wellness problems, from anxiety to fainting spells, and even weight gain - so why is it that 45% of Brits continue to drink only one glass of water a day? The UK sees a soft drinks market worth £3.8 billion dominated by sugary drinks and those labelled as 'zero-calorie' are still filled with a variety of additives and sweeteners. Brits are naturally looking for healthy alternatives to these flavourful drinks in order to consume enough water without ingesting copious amounts of sugar that is detrimental to their health and hydration goals. With 80% of flavour coming from our sense of smell, instead of taste, air up harnesses this clever bit of science, infusing every sip of water from your bottle with flavoured air, and offering Brits a healthy alternative to flavoured drinks while still drinking 100% pure water. Each pod contains natural flavourings and scents that infuse with ambient air to be added to the pure water. The flavours range from Lime and Orange-Passionfruit to Cola and Iced Coffee with ten others in between, offsetting British aversions to water and improving our sense of health and wellness in the process, truly disrupting the soft drinks sector and our consumption habits.
The Million Word Gap Become a Host Family EF host families play a key role in fulfilling EF’s mission of breaking down the barriers of culture, language and geography that divide us. Become a host family for international students today and be part of this great cultural exchange.
Why host with EF?
Experience the world Few experiences can spark interest in the world like opening up your home and becoming a host family for an international student. Being a host family with EF is a unique, rewarding, fun and educational experience for all members of the family and an opportunity to create long-lasting relationships. Hosting with EF is a great way of sharing and learning differences in languages and cultures.
Young children whose parents read them five books a day start school having heard about 1.4 million more words than kids who were never read to, a new study found. This ‘million word gap’ could help explain the differences often seen in vocabulary and reading development among young children, according to the researchers at the Ohio State University. Even children who are read only one book a day will hear about 290,000 more words by age 5 than those who don't regularly read books with a parent or caregiver. ‘Kids who hear more vocabulary words are going to be better prepared to see those words in print when they enter school and are likely to pick up reading skills more quickly and easily’ said Jessica Logan, lead author of the study. The study appears online in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Paediatrics More info: www.sciencedaily.com
Exchange cultures With EF you’ll welcome an international student into your home. You will experience true cultural exchange and demonstrate your community to the world. As a host family you become a vital part of our students’ time abroad and their experiences, helping them to gain a deeper insight into your local culture, pick up expressions with much greater ease and return home with a more authentic accent. Showcase your hometown By becoming a host family you give students a chance to experience maximum cultural immersion by living as locals - with locals. EF host families become the students’ home away from home, and provide a safe and comfortable environment for students to ensure they get the best experience abroad as possible. 4 Families Oxfordshire
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News & Views
UK’s first wardrobe rental platform for children
Free kids’ app that saves the planet
Earth Cubs is a new app for children ages 3 to 7 that educates kids about the planet and sustainability. The free app is filled with games, puzzles, quizzes and comics - all teacherwritten and approved, as well as resources for projects and outdoor activities to inspire kids to get out into nature. Children create their Earth Cub avatar in their likeness and journey across the world, visiting different environments around the globe, such as the Amazon rainforest and the Arctic. Each environment brings an environmental issue to life in a vibrant and positive way, empowering kids to make a real difference as they interact with the Earth Cubs world and characters. They even earn badges that plant real trees in the real world. More info: www.earthcubs.com
Foster Care Fortnight® is back!
Foster Care Fortnight® runs from 9th to 22nd May this year and is the UK's biggest foster carer awareness raising and recruitment campaign. Run by The Fostering Network, the campaign aims to raise the profile of fostering and to show how foster care can transform lives - both the lives of the young people who are fostered and those of foster carers and their families and friends. Thousands of foster families are needed each year to care for a range of children, with greatest need being for foster carers for older children, sibling groups and disabled children. Fostering is an opportunity to make a positive difference to a vulnerable child or young person, expand your skills through training and to develop lifetime relationships with generous financial incentives. More info:www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk/ get-involved/foster-care-fortnight familiesonline.co.uk
Charlotte Morley launched The Little Loop in 2020 in answer to what she perceived as a major issue in the children’s clothing market as children grow quickly, it’s often necessary to upgrade their clothes every three to six months. The Little Loop offers an alternative to frequently purchasing inexpensive, poorlycrafted clothes that are disposed of after a certain number of wears. The service provides children aged from 12 months to 10 years with a selection of highly stylish clothes that can be put back into circulation once they no longer fit. Thelittleloop is working towards a world where children’s clothing waste is completely eradicated. In the space of a year, the brand currently saves 630 kgs of clothing waste; 13,547kgs of carbon dioxide emissions and 583,771 litres of water. Typically, thelittleloop rents out each item of clothing 4-5 times which extends their lifespan by 12 months and eliminates the production of 3-4 new garments. In summary, that’s 80% less carbon dioxide released, 80% less water wasted and 100% fewer garments ending up in landfill (as
thelittleloop upcycles or recycles everything at the end of its life). Thelittleloop process was designed with the parent in mind. The simple premise is that the customer pays for a certain number of credits per month which can be exchanged for clothes. The number of credits per garment depends on the label, the item, and the number of times it has been worn before. The subscription fee includes unlimited swaps; laundry of the clothes that are returned and insurance against stains and wear & tear. thelittleloop.com
Smile this summer with a FREE Perform class
Summer term is here and there’s no better time for your child to try a Perform class. Packed with self-esteem boosting activities, Perform weekly classes will round off the academic year with a fun and relaxed focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. Using a mix of drama, dance and singing, these high-energy classes for all abilities are designed to allow even the most reticent children to shine. The curriculum has an emphasis on fun, making friends and lots of NT £40 DISCOU laughter plus children can enjoy when booking ay, bespoke apps, downloads and before 31st M ote qu t jus videos at home. Small classes OX310522 ensure plenty of individual attention and each child receives a progress report every 10 weeks. This term,4-7s will be bringing out the super in themselves as they become Superheroes on a mission to save the world. Meanwhile, 7-12s will enjoy red carpet glamour in Jack and the Wonderbeans. If you think your child may benefit from Perform but are not sure if they’ll like it, you can book a free trial class at www.perform.org.uk/try.Families readers receive a special £40 discount when booking before 31st May, just quote OX310522. Oxford: Wednesdays; Abingdon: Saturdays and Thursdays; Didcot: Fridays; Wallingford: Saturdays NEW CLASSES COMING SOON (September 2022): Bicester: Thursdays Oxford (Ruskin Hall): Saturdays T: 020 7255 9120 www.enquiries@perform.org.uk Confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class. Families Oxfordshire 5
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- Latest ISI Inspection
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Building the Future Open Morning - Tuesday 17 May admissions.manager@abingdonprep.org.uk
Visit Us
Book your visit now at www.manorprep.org or email admissions@manorprep.org
Families Baby News
Flying with a baby: what to pack in your carry-on with @NannyLouenna With warmer weather on the horizon, many people will be jetting off for the first time since the start of the pandemic. Many of them will be travelling for the first time with their babies. The idea of going on a plane with a little one seems daunting, however with some essential planning, the right gear, and a willingness to make lists, flying with a baby or young kids can be enjoyable. Nelsons® Teetha® have teamed up with Norland Nanny @Nannylouenna to bring you top tips on how to make that first flight a smooth one. • When preparing to fly with a young baby, ring your airline and ask for a bassinet cot as soon as you book your tickets. • Babies and children need to have their own passports to fly, regardless of age. • If you are taking a big pram that won’t be allowed as carry-on luggage, it’s worth buying a pram cover to pack your pram in when it goes through cargo on the plane, as they are often thrown around with the bags and can get broken if not protected. • Dress your baby in layers of thin clothing that can be taken off or added depending on whether the cabin gets very hot or cold throughout the journey. • Always offer milk or a dummy on take-off and landing. The sucking and swallowing rhythm will stop your baby’s ears from popping and getting sore. • On the flight, try and stick to your baby’s usual routine, but offer extra milk. The lack of humidity in the air in the cabin can cause dehydration. • Give yourself lots of time at the airport so that you aren't in a rush, smile at your baby, talk to them, and above all… stay calm!
BABY CABIN BAG CHECKLIST • If you are taking formula milk with you, pack containers to take formula powder with you - always take at least two extra pots than you anticipate you need in case of spillages or delays. Ask the flight attendant for boiling water to make your babies bottle up half an hour before needed so that it has time to cool down. • • • • • • • •
• •
• • • • •
Muslins Bibs Soft blanket Baby book Suction pad toy that sticks to the table so that you aren't constantly picking up toys from the floor! Disposable change mats to use in public changing stations which I throw away after use. Nappies, wipes and nappy cream Packet of ziplock bags to hold sterile teething toys, bowls, spoons, and bottles. They're also great for storing wet clothing or separating things in your bag. If your little one is weaning, take some food pouches with you, a spoon and a beaker or bottle for water. Baby moisturiser to massage your baby’s skin as their cheeks often get dry and cracked. It also doubles as a great hand moisturiser for you! Thermometer and sachets of Calpol if your baby is feverish. If your little one is suffering from teething symptoms, take the Teetha® Teething Granules to provide relief. Spare clothes for you (in case you are sicked on) and your baby in your hand luggage. Small foldable pram like the Babyzen™ Yoyo, or a baby sling with you so that you have your hands free to deal with passports etc. Antibacterial wipes are great for cleaning highchairs, surfaces and cots when you travel
Confidently discover the world with Stokke® Xplory
Stokke, the Scandinavian brand of luxury and timeless baby and children’s products, has announced a new addition to its globally renowned Xplory® product line: the Stokke® Xplory® X Signature. The ultimate fashion statement for stylish parents, the Signature features timeless and high-end aesthetic, an all-black frame with luxe matte gold chassis, and golden logos peppered across a striking black hood, for a stylish yet subtle finish. Stokke® Xplory® X Signature, RRP £1,079 www.stokke.com familiesonline.co.uk
Families Oxfordshire 7
On Whatd’s o, places to Things to be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all
Oxfordshire
THE TIGER WHO CAME TO TEA
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 2nd – 4th June Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem... expect to be surprised! Suitable for ages 3+ £14.50 www.oxfordplayhouse.com/whats-on 01865 305 305
Saturday Science Club Colour Catchers (age 5-9)
Bluebell Walk
WHERE: Oxfordshire WHEN: Early May Late spring means bluebells. Delight in the magic of these pretty flowers with a woodland walk: Harcourt Arboretum, Nuneham Courtenay; Greys Court, Peppard (National Trust); Warburg Nature Reserve, near Henley; Stoke Wood, near Bicester; Shotover Wood, near Oxford. FREE
Family Days
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: Saturdays in May & June Family days offer high-energy experimenting in the Exploration Zone, with 15 acres of woodland nature trails, ponds and picnic areas. Pick up a Wild Explorer’s Backpack, or make a splash at Water Lab! Suitable for ages 3+. Includes access to woodland, ponds, picnic areas and Water Lab all day. £6 per person scienceoxford.com/events
Creative Computing Club: Moonbuggies (age 9-12)
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: 14th May, 10.00, 12.30 and 15.00 Programme model moon-buggies across time and space to pick up ‘moon rock’ samples using a servo-controlled grabbing claw on their rocky lunar mission! Includes access to woodland, ponds, picnic areas and Water Lab all day. £8 per child / adults free scienceoxford.com/events
Saturday Science Club Abingdon – Glow Up Cards (age 5-9)
WHERE: Yang Science Centre, Abingdon School WHEN: 21st May, 9.45 and 11.30 Join us for a crafty card makeover and create super-cool Glow Up cards. Learn about circuits and decorate an interactive light-up card to take home or give to Bffs, family or your favourite pets! £8 per child / adults free scienceoxford.com/events
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: 21st May, 10.00, 12.30 & 15.00 Try ‘pen chromatography’, experiment with colour-changing vegetables or write secret messages - and for a grand finale, see a rainbow walk! Includes access to woodland, ponds, picnic areas and Water Lab all day. £8 per child / adults free scienceoxford.com/events
Tree Climbing
WHERE: Harcourt Arboretum WHEN: 22nd May and 19th June, 10.15 – 15.00 Join tree climbing experts from the Big Tree Climbing Company, who will guide you up the Arboretum’s magnificent trees safely, with ropes and harnesses. £25.00 www.obga.ox.ac.uk
Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 25th – 29th May From explorers to artists, scientists to secret agents, hear the stories of some of history’s strongest mothers, sisters and daughters; all independent icons who really did change the world. Don’t miss this empowering new stage show, with characters and songs that pack a popstar punch! Age 7+ From £10.00 www.oxfordplayhouse.com
Family Night Safari at Sutton Courtenay
WHERE: Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre WHEN: 27th May, 2030 – 22.30 Who knows what you might see or hear exploring the reserve after dark? Learn to use bat detectors to hear bats hunting overhead and lamps to spot newts and frogs in the ponds, help our nature reserve team check the small mammal traps and have a look at the moth trap to find out how we monitor and survey these amazing insects! £7.00 www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Once Upon a Unicorn at Fairytale Farm WHERE: Fairytale Farm, Chipping Norton WHEN: 30th May – 6th June, 10.00 – 17.00 Come and visit Fairytale Farm when this mythical creature will sprinkle some colourful magic around. Enjoy crafting with Ribberty Rabbit, complete the ‘How to Train a Unicorn’ trail activity and meet the Unicorn Queen plus lots more. From £7.75 www.fairytalefarm.co.uk 01608 238014
NATURE TOTS WHERE: Sutton Courtenay Environmental Education Centre WHEN: 9th & 13th May and 6th & 10th June, 9.30 (and 12.30 on Fridays) Join friendly Nature Tots staff and volunteers to explore the nature reserves and enjoy wildlife themed activities suitable for children aged 18 months to 4 years. £7.00 (90 minutes) www.bbowt.org.uk/events/ 8 Families Oxfordshire
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Families What's on Jubilee Celebrations
Leave it to Puck! & Birdland
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 30th June – 2nd July An uplifting double-bill of musical theatre. ‘Leave it to Puck’ celebrates family, fairy dust and fun, whilst ‘Birdland’ tells the story of Pip, a young sparrow,who’s desperate to join the prestigious Dawn Chorus. Age 7+ £15.00 www.oxfordplayhouse.com
Families in the Forest
WHERE: Harcourt Arboretum WHEN: 31st May Families can take part in handson, playful learning experiences in a beautiful woodland setting. Try your hand at den-building, forest skills and fun craft activities whilst discovering more about the animals, plants and trees around you. Age 6+ £15.00 www.obga.ox.ac.uk
FAMILY DAY
WHERE: Greys Court, Henley WHEN: 2nd – 5th June Celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee at Greys Court, with fete style self-led games on the top lawn and plenty of areas for picnics. They’ll also be highlighting some collection items in the house with royal connections. Entry from £6.50 www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Open Farm Sunday – Meet a Farmer
WHERE: Various locations across Oxfordshire WHEN: 12th June Hundreds of farms across the country will be opening their gates offering you the opportunity to find out about where your food comes from, talk to the farmers who produce it and get up close and personal with the countryside. Free www.farmsunday.org
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre, Headington WHEN: Saturdays in May Children and grown-ups alike have fun experimenting with interactive exhibits in the Exploration Zone - create and test flying designs at the Air Table, build a giant magnetic ball run, and test what’s hot and what’s not with the Curious Camera. Tickets also include Winter Wonderland nature trails. From £6.00 scienceoxford.com/events 01865 810000
Saturday Science Club Abingdon – Colour Catchers (age 5-9)
The Bag That Went Boo
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 2nd July The story of a little red bag that jumps out of a brown paper bag – what in the world is it and where is it going? A fantatstical journey of paper bag proportions, dive into the sea and travel to the land of snow. From £6.00 01865 305 305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com/ whats-on
Dinosaur World Live
WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 7th – 9th July Dare to experience the dangers and delights in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. A special meet and greet after the performance offers all our brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. Suitable for ages 3+ £14.50 www.oxfordplayhouse.com/ whats-on 01865 305 305
Fairytale Farm
WHERE: Chipping Norton WHEN: May & June: 10.00 - 17.00 Mixing classic fairy tales, animals and adventure play, children will love Fairytale Farm - the UK’s first visitor attraction that is open to all. A truly inclusive experience, where everything is accessible and everybody is welcome. From £7.75 01608 238014 www.fairytalefarm.co.uk
WHERE: Yang Science Centre, Abingdon School WHEN: 18th June, 9.45 and 11.30 Try ‘pen chromatography’, experiment with colour-changing vegetables or write secret messages - and for a grand finale, see a rainbow walk! £8 per child / adults free scienceoxford.com/events
Creative Computing Club: Picnic Protectors (age 9-12)
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: 18th June, 10.00, 12.30 & 15.00 It’s International Picnic Day, but we must protect our on-screen sarnies from being snapped up by peckish ducks and hungry bugs! Young coders create a safe-snack security system with the help of a bite-sized BBC micro:bit and a scoop of imagination.Includes access to woodland, ponds, picnic areas and Water Lab all day. £8 per child / adults free scienceoxford.com/events
Saturday Science ClubMission Possible: Lego Challenge (age 5-9)
WHERE: Science Oxford Centre WHEN: 25th June, 10.00, 12.30 and 15.00 Everyone loves Lego, but how far would you go to save your own Lego mini-me? This month, our crack rescue team must combine tengineering skills and creativity to overcome epic challenges, and rescue their ‘minifig’ from perilous danger! Includes access to woodland, ponds, picnic areas and Water Lab all day. £8 per child / adults free scienceoxford.com/events
Hey Diddle Diddle
WHERE: The Oxford Playhouse WHEN: Mondays in May and June - 11.00 Introducing music, dance and performance skills to early years children, kick-starting their excitement for creativity and imagination. New theme each week. Please check oxfordplayhouse. com for full schedule. £3.00 for child and adult www.oxfordplayhouse.com 01865 305305 familiesonline.co.uk
Families Oxfordshire 9
In centre and real time 1-to-1 online tuition At Mathnasium our instructors work with children to develop their numerical fluency. From learning number sense to mastering trigonometry, we help students from Year 1 through to GCSE prepare for exams, understand their homework and ultimately love maths. We teach the logic behind the numbers and promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills, rather than rote learning. Your child’s confidence and mathematical ability will grow in a fun and friendly environment, transforming their experience and, quite literally, changing their lives through maths.
01865 655968 | 18 South Parade, Oxford OX2 7JL | www.mathnasium.co.uk /northoxford
Families Education
How to teach your kids more about money
by Gillean Dooney
Approaching the topic of money with your kids can often seem like a daunting task. Many parents are unsure of the best time to start introducing it and struggle to verbalise it appropriately for young children to understand. As a mother myself, I’ve learned the best ways to simplify the concept of money for kids over the years - and the earlier the better! A great place to start is by chatting to your kids about everyday items that cost you money as a family household, such as sharing how much you spend on weekly groceries and how you’ve budgeted for past holidays, family meals out or other leisure activities. Helping your kids understand that none of these things come for free will allow your child to slowly get a grasp on the concept of money from a young age. You can then help them build on this as they get older. Whenever your child receives money, whether that be for birthdays or Christmas, encourage them to save a percentage so they can start to see their money grow. Teach them that out of sight means out of mind and explain the benefits of stashing it away so that they can use it for something they truly need one day in the future. If you’re looking for a fun way to engage your kids around the topic of money, why not play board games that involve handling cash?
For example, Monopoly is a great way to show how money can be used to purchase a house, as well as teaching children the importance of having ‘emergency funds’ available. Not only are these games educational and a great bonding moment for families but the important money management themes will stick with them for the long run.
A great place to start is by chatting to your kids about everyday items that cost you money as a family household Another way to get stuck in with a creative financial lesson is to set up a tuckshop at home. By giving your kids a set amount of money to spend on snacks and treats
each week, this is an easy way for them to start understanding the nuances of money exchanges in everyday scenarios. Challenge them to make their money last the whole week, so that they can also start to grasp the concept of budgeting. If you choose to make the price of sweet treats more than that of fruit, you’ll not only encourage them to think about where they’re spending their money but they will also learn how to make healthier choices.
Pocket money
Giving your children pocket money from a young age is a good way to get them child thinking about and handling their own money. You could create a list of weekly chores and then award them with pocket money once these tasks are complete - whether that’s dog walking or doing the dishes. In fact, new research from Barclays revealed how much parents value having their children lend a hand around the home, with over two thirds (68 percent) rewarding them with pocket money.* Having a specified amount of money to spend each week will teach them to prioritise what items they need the most, and how to distinguish between ‘want’ and ‘need’, based on their allocated budget. For example, they may have to choose between saving up for a new toy they’ve had their eye on versus buying a birthday gift for their friend. *Consumer research was conducted by OnePoll surveying 1,000 parents with children under the age of 16 in the UK between the dates of 19.11.21 and 23.11.21 Gilliean is Managing Director at Barclays and mum-of-two. For more info on teaching children about money, visit www.barclays. co.uk/money-management/guides/kidspocket-money/
FUNDRAISING Encouraging your child to get involved in fundraising activities, for example a charity bake sale, can help them learn some basic money management skills. In this case, that could mean teaching them how to subtract the cost of baking ingredients from the total raised from the cakes in order to work out how much profit they made for charity. Beyond teaching money management skills, fundraising is a great way to demonstrate how money can be used to contribute to a good cause and help those who might be less fortunate than themselves. If you’re looking to make fundraising more fun and interactive, why not encourage your kids to set up their own charity event and invite friends and family to support? Giving your child a small level of responsibility in the organisation of an event can help them to feel in control of the money and allow them to act as an advocate for their chosen charity.
familiesonline.co.uk
Families Oxfordshire 11
Families Education
Meet the Headteacher - Ms. Christine Cook, Chandlings Prep School Ms Christine Cook started as Headteacher at Chandlings Prep School in January 2018 having worked at the school for 12 years previously when it first opened in 1996 and described her return as ‘like coming home’. Born in Shropshire, Ms Cook has spent parts of her life in Jamaica, Portugal and has also spent time teaching English and coaching hockey in Australia at a boys’ independent senior school. Her first experience of working at Chandlings School came in 1996 when she began work as a class teacher and worked her way up to become director of studies. After 12 years Ms Cook left Chandlings to move to Cokethorpe School near Witney as Head of the Junior School. In January 2018 she was invited back to take the headship at Chandlings Prep and observed that whilst the facilities have grown in her time away, the school’s academic success and warm atmosphere has always remained constant. Ms Cook kindly took time out of her busy day to answer Families Oxfordshire Magazine’s questions. 1. What and/or who inspired you to become a teacher and later a headteacher? My mother was a primary school headteacher and my aunt was a teacher. Although I vowed to do something completely different such as being a vet or a physiotherapist, teaching must have been in my blood because I was drawn towards it and have never looked back! 2. What does being a headteacher of a school mean to you? The real joy of being a headteacher lies in the everyday conversations and interactions with the children and staff which is great fun. No two days are ever the same. Not only do I see how the children develop from Nursery to Year 6, but I am also responsible for the direction that the school takes which is really exciting. 3. How do you think a headteacher of a school can make a real difference to an individual student? I want to ensure that talented and caring staff provide excellent teaching and the finest opportunities for the children. This means that every child will find something that inspires them. It is also important to recognise that each child is an individual with their own interests and abilities, and take the time to get to know them. 4. What advice would you give to parents looking at private education for the first time? Do attend Open Days but also have a personal visit which will give a slightly different perspective and you will see how staff interact with both you and your children. Ask about pastoral care and wellbeing as well as how the children are challenged and supported. Extracurricular activities are vital too so look at the breadth and range. Here at Chandlings Prep we offer over 60 clubs and activities each week ranging from horse riding to yoga to Music Technology. There is something for everyone! 5. How affected do you feel pupils have been by the COVID pandemic? They missed their friends and online meet-ups were just not the same. Our online provision was comprehensive and they had kept up with all their subjects so academically they were in a really good place. However, we could see that some had lost confidence by not being in school and we ensured that our wellbeing programme and pastoral care addressed this. In the end the children’s wellbeing is paramount to them achieving success in other areas of school life. The positive impact of our wellbeing programme helped contribute to the recent excellent Year 6 results in the senior school entrance examinations. 6. You returned to Chandlings Prep School as Headteacher in January 2018 having previously taught here for 12 years from 1994 to 2006. What are the biggest changes that you have seen in your time away? The development of the outdoor learning provision has really improved and is now a core component of our Strategic Plan. For the school’s 10th Anniversary we planted an avenue of trees and it was lovely to come back and see them maturing. We have also had a real focus 12 Families Oxfordshire
on the creative arts with ensembles and performances now across all age groups. 7. Chandlings Prep School occupies an enviable position within 60 acres of stunning grounds just 5 miles from Oxford. Of the many outdoor activities that are on offer here (including a low ropes course in Bluebell woods!), which one is your favourite? Our extensive grounds are amazing and within two minutes children can be in woodlands, having lessons by the lakes or enjoying class picnics under their year group trees. Gardening Club in the Market Garden is incredibly popular but the Low Ropes are always mentioned. My personal favourite is Goat Club with the children walking Fred and Frank our school pygmy goats! 8. What is your real-life superpower? I always recognise when one of the children has had a haircut which invariably takes them by surprise! 9. Relaxing holiday or active holiday? My perfect holiday would be three days relaxing in the sun by a pool and then doing something active. I was lucky enough to kayak in the Norwegian Fjords and would go back in a flash. Please join us at our Open Morning on Friday 20th May to see Chandlings Prep in action and find out what makes it such a special place. Please book at www.chandlingspst.org/open-mornings
familiesonline.co.uk
Families Health
Lessons in helping your child improve their mental health If your child is struggling, here’s how to help them access mental health support at school Nobody should suffer in silence. If your child is struggling with their mental health, they don’t have to cope alone and neither do you. There are people out there who can help. This year’s Mental Health Awareness Week (9 to 15 May 2022) focuses on the theme of loneliness. Struggling with mental health can make you feel incredibly isolated and lonely and, if your child has confided in you that they’re unhappy about something, be proud of them for taking that first step. By confiding in you, your child may already feel less weighed down and lonely. After all, there’s a reason why that old saying ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’ is so well known. However, while you can offer love and reassurance, you may not be able to give them the practical support that they need - and it’s important to know where exactly to access it. Many parents’ first point of call will be their GP. However, you may decide that your child’s school teacher or tutor is the first person you’d like to approach, given that they spend considerable time with them and are responsible for their pastoral care at school. Once you’ve approached your child’s teacher or tutor, they might pass you on to a mental health professional working within the school system. There are many professionals working under the umbrella of Children and young people’s mental health services (CYPMHS), which may also be known as Children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) depending on where you live, and is the multi-disciplinary UK-based NHS services that assess and treat young people with emotional, behavioural or mental health difficulties along with neurodivergent conditions.
These professionals include: • School nurse - works with school children and their families • Special educational needs (SEN) teacher - supports pupils with specialist educational needs • Social worker - works within the community supporting families and children • Occupational therapist - helps people who have physical, sensory, or cognitive problems • Counsellor - helps people overcome their problems with talking therapy, listening to them and encouraging them to make changes to their lives • CBT therapist - counsellor specialising in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), a talking therapy that helps you make positive changes to your thought and behaviour pattern Before your child has their first appointment with one of these professionals, they may feel daunted by the prospect of speaking to someone new about their mental health. Reassure them that addressing their worries is the best way to eventually overcome them. You might be allowed to attend their appointment or they may attend alone. Either way, you can help them prepare for their appointment. Firstly, having some notes prepared can be helpful so that they know what they want to talk about and can also jog their memory if they lose their train of thought, as can happen if you’re feeling emotional. A mental health professional will ask questions, such as why your child thinks they have been referred for help and how they’ve been coping with the issue up to this point. They may be asked how things are at home
by Louise Baty
and school, along with anything from their past that might be affecting how they’re currently feeling. Your child may be given tasks such as filling in a form with questions about how they’re feeling now and whether they’ve ever thought about harming themselves. This may seem overwhelming, especially if it’s the first time they’ve opened up to someone they don’t really know. Impress on your child that it’s important they answer honestly so that they get the right support. Your child may be given ‘homework’ to do between appointments, such as practising mindfulness exercises or jotting a daily record of their feelings. If they complain that they ‘already get enough homework from school’, remind them that it’s important to do this work because it will help them get the most out of their mental health support.
Mental H ealth Awarene ss Week 9-15 May 2022 It’s also worth being prepared for a somewhat bumpy ride, as your child works towards recovery. They may wake up some days and feel that they’re not going anywhere. Reassure them that everyone who’s experienced a mental health issue has felt like this at some point but that things will get better. During this process, it’s also important to remember your own wellbeing and mental health. As a parent, you may find it hard to cope when your child is having a tough time. Don’t be afraid to seek support for yourself and never underestimate the positive power of a quick ‘how are you doing?’ phone call or hug from someone who genuinely cares for you and your child. A great way to boost your spirits and your child’s sense of achievement is to mark your successes, no matter how small. Encourage your child to make a note of good days and try not to dwell too much on down days. Believe in your ability to get through difficult times as a team. Above all, be kind to yourselves - always. Louise Baty is the author of In My Head: A Young Person’s Guide to Understanding Mental Health, published by Vie, £10.99
familiesonline.co.uk
Families Oxfordshire 13
Families Education
The importance of routines for young children
by Claire Burgess
Routine is important for all of us. It provides safe, comfortable boundaries and keeps our lives on track. But it also means different things to different people and needs to fit each individual family, adjusting as children grow. Some families benefit from more structure, while others work well with more flexible routines. There is no right or wrong in a routine, other than when it doesn’t work for your children or for you! WHY DO BABIES AND CHILDREN NEED ROUTINE? As humans every day of our lives is made up of various mini routines. These are the little routines which we have perfected over time and repeat daily, all of which help us to manage our day, many times without even really thinking about it. Routine is also another word for security. By having a routine it helps our children (and us) to feel secure and we are at our best when we feel safe and secure. This is when we are able to concentrate, cooperate, negotiate, listen and ultimately learn. Being able to tell the time gives adults the ability to develop routines but babies and young children don’t have this luxury. So they are relying on us to help them understand how
14 Families Oxfordshire
their day is going to be structured. It’s worth being aware that if this timing changes day to day, your child will be constantly unsure of what is happening next. In turn, this may lead to them displaying challenging behaviours, their eating habits fluctuating and their sleep being disturbed. HOW DO I KEEP MY CHILD ON TRACK? It is all about watching for the signals. These can be subtle and can sometimes be easily missed; observation of your child is key. Look for those little indicators such as wandering off around the house and not being able to focus on things, becoming clingy when they were happily playing, staring into space, getting cross, frustrated or fidgeting, upset or boisterous. These can all be indicators that things are not quite right and your child needs you to help them find the way back into their routine. Once you have recognised this, you can put a plan into action. TOP TIPS Make the routine fit for your family. Every family is unique and has their own way of structuring their day; what works for your friend might not work for you. Don’t make it too rigid. But do have two key
times of the day: the time your children get up in the morning and the time they go to bed. If you aim for and stick to these two points of the day, it will help to regulate your child’s sleep hormones at night and ‘get up and go’ hormones in the morning. Between these times you should schedule regular mealtimes (and snacks dependent on the activity of the day) and possibly naps. This gives you a constant structure to the day which will give both you and your children the security and safety to approach each day with confidence. Consistency. For something to become a habit it needs to be consistent. When implementing a new routine or an adjustment, it can take at least two weeks to stick, so persevere! Claire Burgess is a director and family consultant at Bespoke Family (www. bespokefamily.co.uk), which offers tailored support from newborns to teens.
Making it work
A completely rigid system leaves little room for spontaneity and can be selfdefeating. Don’t be afraid to nudge your routine when the need arises. For example, if lunchtime is usually one o’clock on a normal day, but today you have been swimming and your little one is showing signs of being really hungry and tired, take the hint and bring lunch forward. Just half an hour might be the difference between the biggest ‘I’m hungry and tired’ meltdown and having your little one eating well and feeling happy (meaning that you are happy and relaxed as well!) The one routine that’s always worth sticking to is the fixed bedtime. Proper sleep is as important to children as a healthy diet. Including naps, experts recommend up to sixteen hours’ sleep for infants and up to twelve hours per night for older children. While it might be tempting to keep your little one up later than normal to fit in with your own plans, sleep time is when kids grow and rest so that they are ready for everything tomorrow brings.
familiesonline.co.uk
Families Clubs & Classes
n O s ’ t a h W sses
cla clubs and alf term h y a M s i th er in and summ
re Oxfordshi
Activate Camps
WHEN: 30th May - 1st June & 1st – 26th August WHERE: Moulsford Preparatory School Multi activity and specific activity led camps to ensure that your children get the most possible fun and inspiration. Courses include Triathlon Masterclass, Multi-Activity Camps, Cricket Academies and Freestyle Soccer Camps. www.activatecamps.co.uk/
Premier Tennis Easter Camps
WHEN: May Half Term and Summer Holidays, 10.00 – 16.00 WHERE: St Hugh’s School, Faringdon (w/c 30th May, 11th July and 1st August) and Dragon School, Oxford (w/c 5th July –15th August) Get the most out of school holidays at these high energy 5-day camps. Working in individual age-specific groups, the accredited coaches organise drills, mini matches, team games and individual challenges. For children age 5 - 15. tennisoxfordshire.com/camps 01865 689754
Ultimate Activity Camps
WHEN: Dates in May Half Term and throughout July and August WHERE: Venues throughout Oxfordshire Outstanding Ofsted-regulated activity day camps for children aged 4-14 years during the school holidays. With over 40 fantastic age-specific activities on offer it’s a great opportunity to try new activities and make new friends. www.ultimateactivity.co.uk/ 0330 111 7077 (local rate)
Family Days every Saturday at the Science Oxford Centre
Family Days A sense of adventure... 7, 14, 21, 28 May | 4, 11, 18, 25 June Tickets include 2 hours in the Exploration Zone and all day access to the Water Lab and woodland. Pick up a Wild Explorer Backpack and bring a picnic! Book online: Sound of Science half term family show at the Museum of Oxford (1st June) and our monthly Nature Lab and Saturday Clubs in Oxford and Abingdon
scienceoxford.com Science Oxford Centre, Quarry Road, Headington, Oxford OX3 8SB
familiesonline.co.uk
Active Camps
WHEN: May Half Term and Summer Holidays WHERE: Summer Fields School, Oxford Whether your child (3- 14 years) is interested in sport, arts, crafts or a bit of everything, Active Camps have activities to suit everybody. No two days are the same! www.active-camps.com 01865 594325
Summer Holiday Club
WHERE: The Old Station Nursery, Faringdon The Old Station Nursery in Faringdon will be running a May half term and Summer holiday club for children aged 5-8 years old. From crafts, baking, outdoor activities and themed fun days, there’s something for everyone! www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk 01367 243800
Camp Wilderness
WHEN: July and August WHERE: Blenheim Woods 3- & 5-Day residential camping experiences for children, aged 8 – 14 years. Highlights include fire-lighting, camp craft, shelterbuilding, wilderness cookery and fireside stories. campwilderness.co.uk/
Sports Coaching Camps
WHEN: July and August WHERE: Abingdon School Specialist coaching courses run by professional coaches in various sports including rugby, tennis, rowing, sailing and multi sports covering a wide range of aspects from skills to sport nutrition. www.abingdon.org. uk/sports-and-leisure/activities/ courses-holiday-camps/
Perform’s Peter Pan Summer Course
WHEN: 22nd – 26th August, 10.00 – 15.00 WHERE: West Oxford Community Centre Inspire your child’s imagination this summer with a unique drama, dance and singing holiday course. With a sprinkle of Perform fairy dust, a team of skilled actors, musicians and dancers will ensure your child enjoys every minute as they work towards a show-stopping performance to delight family and friends. Ages 4 - 10 www.perform.org.uk/peterpan
Stagecoach Performing Arts Holiday Workshops
WHEN: July and August WHERE: Venues throughout Oxfordshire Children and Teenagers can make friends, have fun and develop some great new skills at these Drama Clubs and Workshops. At the end, the students join together to showcase their newfound singing, acting and dancing skills to family and friends. www.stagecoach.co.uk 01483 247404
Mathnasium Learning Centres
WHERE: Summertown, North Oxford WHEN: Monday-Thursday & Saturday Where Maths makes sense! By producing a tailor-structured learning plan for each student according to his/her knowledge and skill level, the Mathnasium Method can help children in Years 2 - 12 better understand maths and leap ahead. Try the FREE maths skills assessment/trial session. 01865 655968 www. mathnasium.co.uk/northoxford
Families Oxfordshire 15
Education won’t cost the earth... with a bursary for our Lower School
Day Taster 2–3 ars for Ye y 2022 11 Ma
ut re abo o m r e and Discov vative o n in r ou rning! fun lea
Research has shown that between the ages of seven and eight, children develop the attitudes, abilities and relationships that help them to succeed in education. We are offering bursaries for Year 3 children until they complete Year 6 – a real opportunity for an independent education in the primary years. Call us or visit www.ola.org.uk/bursary Catholic Independent Co-educational Day School for 7–18s welcoming all faiths and none Radley Road | Abingdon-on-Thames | OX14 3PS | 01235 524658 | www.ola.org.uk
