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Issue No. 70 Sept/Oct 2016

Firework Displays Halloween Events What's On at Half Term Schools Special Clubs & Classes Feature

The Herts magazine with the information young families want

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In this issue:

From your Editor…

Welcome back – back to school, back to nursery, back to work (if you’ve had a break) and back to routine, or, if your child is new to either of the above, to a different routine.

Our Schools Special has a helpful article to help you to get your child into a good routine, a necessity that helps family life run smoothly, most of the time!

Plus, a handy piece about making the most of parents’ evening.

If you are looking to sign your child up to a new club or class this term, do read the Clubs & Classes Feature. Whether it’s extra tuition, a new sport, performing arts, water sports or activities for pre-school children, you’re bound to find something that floats your child’s boat.

The term has barely begun but, nevertheless, our ‘What’s On’ listing contains Half-term events and activities, Halloween events and firework displays as well as a listing of the pantomimes that are scheduled for later in the year.

Until next time, enjoy the fruits of Autumn.

Shelley

Where are we? Baldock, Bishops Stortford, Borehamwood, Chorleywood, Harpenden, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Hitchin, Kings Langley, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, St Albans, Stevenage, Ware, Welwyn GC. Pick it up from cafes, playgroups, nurseries, schools, activity groups, selected shops, surgeries, leisure centres and libraries. Email or call to request copies for your venue.

News & Views: 4 Schools: 6 Parents' evening Getting into a good routine School Open Days

Clubs & Classes: 12 Health: 19 Headlice: An irritating problem

What’s On: 20 Next Issue: Nov/Dec - Christmas Copy Deadline: 7th October Image credit: © NataSnow

Families Herts, PO Box 434, Pinner, HA5 9AH Tel: 020 8428 6384 editor@familiesherts.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Say you saw it in

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News & Views Autumn Fun at Frolics at The SandPit Theatre

Hertfordshire Top for Anti-Bullying in Schools Stonewall, Britain’s LGTB equality charity, has named Herts for Learning (HfL) and Hertfordshire County Council (HCC) as the best local authority in Britain for tackling homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying and celebrating difference in its schools.

Since its inception, the ‘Who not What’ (WnW) group, with support from Youth Connexions Hertfordshire, has become the voice of LGBT young people in the county.

As part of their objectives, young people involved have gathered their experiences and contributed to the Hertfordshire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) Review. Youth Connexions Hertfordshire has established two new LGBT youth groups this year and plans to provide more across the county.

Herts for Learning offers school governors termly training opportunities on how to tackle bullying, and the organisation has developed a pupil welfare and wellbeing package that pays significant attention to the specific vulnerabilities of LGBT young people. Bespoke anti-bullying training, workshops and surgery sessions are provided to school staff and these include preventing and tackling homophobia, biphobia and transphobia. Find out more at www.stonewall.org.uk/educationequalityindex and www.hertsforlearning.co.uk

This October half term, The SandPit Theatre celebrate the completion of their first year of the Little Diggers scheme with a fun filled week of Spooky crafts, theatre shows, puppet workshops and films. The week culminates with the theatre company that kicked off the venture at the same time last year; ‘Blunderbus Children’s Theatre Company’ and their fantastic new show ‘Dotty the Dragon’.

Join Dotty as she comes inside for the winter, you might catch a glimpse of a life-size firebreathing Dragon!

Find out more at www.sandpittheatre.co.uk

Toby’s in the Frame Toby Hawkridge (aged 11) from Hemel Hempstead is a Tottenham Hotspur fan and a keen footballer.

Toby was born with Spastic Diplegia which led to him having to use a wheelchair, however, since going to the USA for a life changing operation Toby can now walk unaided, although he needs to use crutches to help him on a daily basis and is reliant on a frame to run, to travel backwards and for walking longer distances.

Toby plays Frame Football, where the players use a wheeled walking frame to move around the pitch. Specialist supplier, R82 UK, have given 8 Crocodile Walkers to young players and Toby is one of them. Toby explains: Having the Crocodile will make a massive difference … I still get tired walking long distances but as the Crocodile has a seat I can

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Put the Brakes On now join in with things like dog walks and take a break when needed. Best of all, as top scorer at Frame Football, I can now go even faster – it’s like being given a brand new Ferrari!”

Find out more at www.cpsport.org/sports/ football/frame-football and search @ FrameFootball on Facebook.

Road Safety Week: 21st to 27th November.

Drivers are being encouraged to keep to six simple rules. Dave Nichols, Community Engagement Manager for Brake, said: “We’ve designed this year’s theme to be action orientated. Anyone can make and share the Pledge – individuals, schools and parents.

If every driver vowed to slow down, never drink or take drugs when driving or use their mobiles, always wear a seat belt and make sure children are safely restrained, get their eyesight regularly tested, and minimise the amount they drive, then our roads would be safer places for everyone.

To get your school or community involved with Road Safety Week go to www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk.

Knickers Models Own – yes, really!

Caroline Jones from Harpenden was grief stricken when she lost her beloved mother, Mary, to cancer in 2014. Her mother had been a dedicated volunteer for Cancer Research UK (CRUK) for 13 years and to honour this and also to deal with her sadness, Caroline was determined to fundraise for CRUK herself. She came up with an ingenious idea; starting on the first day of 2015 she would style herself a different outfit each day with clothes sourced only from CRUK shops. She took photos of each outfit and posted daily on social media. Caroline’s campaign was picked up by the media and she found herself

Two books by, for and about Dyslexics: Idi and the Oracle's Quest When Tracy Traynor was young she was made to believe that she was stupid and that because of her learning difficulties and dyslexia she would never achieve anything.

Later on, as a single mum with 4 sons to raise, she realised that she was a capable person and it turned her life around. She went to college, passed her accountancy exams and now works as a Finance Manager.

Tracy’s book aims to help those who have been unfairly labelled as she was. This fantasy adventure for older children and teenagers is an inspirational tale about Idi, a boy who is not valued by his community, but who learns that he has far more promise than he ever knew.

appearing on ‘Loose Women’ and ‘The One Show’. By the end of the year Caroline had raised an impressive £50,000 for CRUK which has now grown to £60,000. Her fundraising success has been recognized and Caroline has won the 2015 JustGiving ‘Creative Fundraiser of the Year’ award and was recently awarded the 2016 ‘Pioneer of the Year’ Flame of Hope volunteering award by CRUK. Caroline has also authored a book titled ‘Knickers Models Own’ that is full of photos of her creative outfits with tips and styling advice plus contributions from renowned photographer, Rankin, blogger Oliva Purvis and columnist Hannah Betts. Sales of the book will raise even more funds for the charity.

Copies can be purchased for £20 from

www.cruk.org/knickersmodelsown and all proceeds go to CRUK.

Dyslexia Rules KO When Annette Dolan left school in the 1970s, she could barely read and was aware that her brain worked in a different way to her peers. She later found out that she was one of many living with Dyslexia.

In ‘Dyslexia Rules KO’, Dolan gives readers a powerful insight into the dyslexic mind. She shares the many hurdles that she has had to overcome, the rejections and the failures that fuelled her persistence and belief that she would eventually succeed. Annette explains: “… people don’t understand how the dyslexic mind works. The goal of my book is to allow people to glimpse into a world they’ll likely never experience for real, and hopefully change their perceptions about what it means to live with [Dyslexia].”

Annette wants to see change in the education system so that Dyslexic children are taught in a way that encourages their skills, adapts to their specific needs and ensures that the unique gifts their minds provide can be harnessed for success. Both books are available from www.amazon.co.uk

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Thumb-suckers and nail-biters ‘prone to fewer allergies’ It may drive parents mad but it has been suggested that children who regularly suck their thumbs or bite their nails are less prone to developing allergies.

The results of a study published in the New Zealand journal 'Pediatrics' suggest that being exposed to germs at an early age can help boost the child’s immune system, making them less prone to developing allergies.

The study followed 1,000 people and assessed them between the ages of five and 32. It found that suckers and biters had fewer allergies to things like house dust mites and pet dander at the age of 13.

However, the habits seemed to have little or no effect on the incidence of developing hay-fever or asthma.

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Schools

How to make the most of parents’ evening

By Liat Highes-Joshi

Parents’ evening is your big opportunity to get feedback on how your child’s doing at school, but with as little as five or ten minutes a couple of times a year, how can you get the most of your time in there?

Plan and prioritise Maximise what you get out of the meeting by working out priorities in advance. What do you need to know the most and what do you want to communicate to the teacher? Have a chat with your child to see if they have any worries or issues you could discuss and find out more about what they do and don’t enjoy at school. Then write a list and put it in order of importance in case you run short of time.

Take a pen or pencil and paper to write notes if you’re likely to forget what was said afterwards.

Don’t just focus on academic matters Behaviour, friendships and how your child has settled into the class are all just as important as reading, writing and maths.

Be realistic about what the teacher will tell you The style of feedback teachers give has changed since most of us were kids – it tends to be less blunt and less about direct comparisons with classmates. So if you go in expecting to know your child’s position in the class versus other children, or whether they’re on a higher reading level than specific classmates, you’ll be disappointed. At best you might be told they are ‘in the top quarter’ or ‘middle group’. Equally, if your little one is only in Reception, it’s pointless grilling the teacher about their future job prospects or chances of Oxbridge. They simply won’t know.

Don’t get sidetracked Parents’ evenings usually run to tight schedules and most teachers will stick strictly to the time limits (it’s not unheard of for them to use an egg timer), not least to avoid making subsequent appointments run annoyingly late for other mums and dads. So save the general chit-chat for another day or you risk half your time being wasted talking about the weather.

Be open-minded about less flattering feedback Most of us head into parents’ evening wanting to hear fabulous things about our children but the reality is you might receive negative feedback, albeit this should be constructive. It can be hard to take this on board if you don’t agree but stay calm and at least hear the teacher out respectfully before asking further questions or making your points back.

Don’t be surprised if the teacher talks about a ‘different child’ We don’t mean literally a different child, but don’t be shocked if some of the descriptions of your son or daughter aren’t so familiar.

Sometimes children behave or perform

Liat is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including 'New Old-fashioned Parenting' and 'How to Unplug Your Child' (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children: The Primary Years (Pearson).

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differently at school compared to at home – your child might be extremely chatty with you but very quiet in the classroom for example.

Need more information?

If any issues were left unresolved or you have concerns once you’ve digested the feedback, it’s normally fine to request a follow-up meeting with the teacher.

Parents’ evening question ideas: Do ask: • Has my child settled well into school life this year?

• What are his/her strengths and weaknesses?

• How is he/she doing compared to expectations for this age and stage?

• Is there anything we can be doing to help support his/her learning or behaviour at home?

• About friendships and behaviour, not just academic matters.

Don’t ask…

• About other children’s academic performance – this is confidential.

You shouldn’t be given class rankings in primary schools.

Say you saw it in

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Schools Recognition of services to education Diana Burdett, the School Secretary at The Grove Infant and Nursery School in Harpenden, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in The Queen’s 90th Birthday Honours List for her services to education.

Diana has worked at The Grove Infant and Nursery School since 1984 but first entered the world of education 50 years ago when she took up the post of School Secretary at Manland School (now called Sir John Lawes School) in Harpenden. Having taken ten years to raise her own family she can claim to have proudly been serving the school community for nigh on 40 years, during which time she has supported six Head Teachers.

Diana has had to adapt to the many changes in the way that schools are managed and run, as well as to all the technological changes, but her dedication to the school community has remained constant. Some of the changes that Diana has witnessed over the years include: “the replacement of temporary buildings, building of the Nursery unit and …. more recently, a major extension to cope with the increase in numbers.”

Diana commented: “Government guidelines for education have changed many times over the years, but the enthusiasm of the staff, together with parental support, is as strong as ever - giving the children the best possible chance to succeed in our modern society.”

"Always meticulously fair, kind and generous to all, ready to go the extra mile..."

And what of the role of the School Secretary? “The position hasn't changed, just the way it is done. The arrival of the computer has had the greatest impact, leading to the use of an electronic communications system between the school and parents/carers, and suppliers. No longer is there a need for a daily visit to the post office or a weekly visit to the bank with the weighty dinner money.”

Ann Archer, The Grove’s Head Teacher, said: “We are so proud, and feel it is really well deserved. Always meticulously fair, kind and generous to all, ready to go the extra mile to make sure that everyone in the school community gets the very best help and support, and the most hardworking colleague I have ever had - we are very lucky to have her.”

Diana loves her job and has no plans to retire any time soon. She is looking forward to another school year and to her award ceremony later in the autumn when she will receive her BEM.

To contact The Grove Infant and Nursery School call 01582 761849 or visit www.groveinfants.co.uk

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Say you saw it in

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Schools Getting your child into a good routine

By Sally J Hall

School days and dark mornings can play havoc with your child’s routine. Here’s how to keep them happy - and get them up on time!

As you and your child get into the autumn school term, it can be difficult to cope with changing weather and dull days.

The long evenings of summer are over, the nights draw in and the mornings are dark.

Getting your child settled into a good routine is essential if you are going to ensure they get enough sleep and are able to get up on time for school without too much effort and moaning.

So having a routine that is followed every school day can help immensely. Set an alarm for 15 minutes before you need to get the kids up and get yourself together in that time.

Whether it’s that first cup of tea, a shower or choosing what to wear, make sure you have time for you first - and everything else will go that bit more smoothly. Then it’s time to get the kids up and for them to follow their routine, too. Avoid any electronic stimulation in the morning, so ban games, X-Boxes and the TV, as time can slip away when they are distracted.

Exercise is your best friend

Be prepared

Even if the weather is dreadful, try to make sure that your kids have some exercise every day. Not only will it help keep them fit and healthy but it also helps them to get a good night’s sleep. The best time is just after school, when it’s still light and you can take them to the playground or let them loose in the garden. Then it’s time for homework, dinner, bath and bed.

Getting things prepared the night before can help immensely with the morning rush, so prepare lunchboxes and get breakfast things out the night before.

Plan your mornings Most parents would agree; mornings are bad times! Everyone is tired and cranky and if you’re not careful, it can descend into chaos.

Have rules Make sure there are rules for where things are put when your kids arrive home each day. Let them know that they can’t just dump their gear anywhere! Those school bags, shoes and coats must go in a specific place so that there is no frantic searching in the morning, with everyone getting frustrated. Sticking to this routine makes for a happier family.

Make sure they know their routine too Having a planner on view is a great way to avoid missing tutoring sessions, music lessons and play dates. A big calendar on the fridge means everyone can see what’s happening and when.

Why routines work Children respond really well to a routine so you’ll thank yourself when they adapt to doing the right things at the right time each day. Have breakfast and dinner at set times, bedtime must be absolutely set in stone and homework should have appointed times too.

Giving your kids too much choice over their own routine just leads to their spending too long on games or play and not enough for homework and helping with chores.

Sally is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

Open days School

Location

Age

Date

Time

Telephone

Website

Abbot's Hill School (Girls) (Boys 3-5)

Hemel Hempstead

3-16 Yrs

1 Oct

2pm-4pm

01442 240333

www.abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

Abbot's Hill School (Girls) (Boys 3-5)

Hemel Hempstead

3-16 yrs

12 Nov

10am-12pm

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Abbot's Hill School (Girls) (Boys 3-5)

Hemel Hempstead

Prep

23 Sep

10.30am-12pm

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Abbot's Hill School (Girls) (Boys 3-5)

Hemel Hempstead

Prep

24 Nov

10.30am-12pm

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Berkhamsted Day Nursery

Berkhamsted

5mths-3yrs

30 Sep

9am-12pm

Berkhamsted Day Nursery

Berkhamsted

5mths-3yrs

1 Oct

10am-12pm

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Berkhamsted Pre-Prep

Berkhamsted

3-7yrs

30 Sep

9am-12pm

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Berkhamsted Pre-Prep

Berkhamsted

3-7yrs

1 Oct

9am-12pm

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Berkhamsted Prep

Berkhamsted

7-11yrs

30 Sep

9am-12pm

“

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Berkhamsted Prep

Berkhamsted

7-11yrs

1 Oct

10am-12pm

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Berkhamsted Boys

Berkhamsted

11-16yrs

30 Sep

3.30-6.30pm

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Berkhamsted Girls

Berkhamsted

11-16yrs

30 Sep

3.30-6.30pm

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Berkhamsted Sixth

Berkhamsted

16-18yrs

29 Sep

5-7pm

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Duncombe School (co-ed)

Hertford

2-11yrs

6 Oct

9.45-11.30am

Duncombe School (co-ed)

Hertford

2-11yrs

10 Nov

9.45-11.30am

Egerton Rothesay School (co-ed)

Berkhamsted

5-19yrs

6 Oct

am

Egerton Rothesay School (co-ed)

Berkhamsted

5-19yrs

17 Nov

am

St Chrisopher School (co-ed)

Letchworth

2-18yrs

24 Sep

9.30am-1pm

01462 650947

www.stchris.co.uk

St Francis' College (girls)

Letchworth

3-18yrs

8 Oct

10am-12.30pm

01462 670511

www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

St Francis' College (girls)

Letchworth

3-18yrs

14 Oct

9am-12.30pm

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01442 358001

01992 414100 “ 01442 877060 “

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www.berkhamstedschool.org

www.duncombe-school.co.uk “ www.eger-roth.co.uk “

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Duncombe School

Abbot's Hill School

Duncombe School is an accredited Forest School, giving their children the chance to learn and explore in a safe outdoor environment. Following The Forest School principals, lessons develop the children’s curiosity, confidence, self-esteem, creativity, communication skills, knowledge of the natural environment and the ability to assess risk. Activities are carefully planned to meet these principles and the aims of the school curriculum. They are accredited by ‘Down the Woods’, an organisation that provides information and training on outdoor education.

Abbot’s Hill is a happy, dynamic and thriving school offering an all-round education for girls aged 4-16 years. The Day Nursery & Pre-School caters for girls and boys from 6 months. The school’s historic campus offers modern facilities in a magnificent country setting on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead.

With a strong record of academic success, throughout the school, pupils are taught in small classes in which excellent teaching and personalised support ensure that everyone is inspired to exceed their potential. The broad curriculum is enhanced by a wide range of trips and activities.

Abbots Hill School is proud of the pastoral care that they provide. In this nurturing environment, pupils grow naturally in

confidence, embrace new challenges and eagerly take on increasing responsibilities.

To find out more call 01442 240333 or visit www.abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

St Christopher School The Early Years and Junior School children have enjoyed a busy summer term at St Chris. With a number of trips, Science Week, Poetry Week, sporting events and a Teddy Bears' Picnic the summer holiday brings a well deserved rest!

Science Week included a 360 degree dome in the Sports Hall where all the children were able to experience the sky at night and identify constellations. Poet, Ross Sutherland, visited the school during Poetry Week to share his work and enthuse the children to enjoy the creativity of poetry.

The Year 5 and 6 Cricket teams hosted Duncombe School pupils and scored 241 for 0 against Duncombe’s 229 for 4.

Residential trips to Cuffley, West Runton and

Cornwall enabled Year 3, 4 and 5 children to try their hand at different activities.

01462 650947 or visit www.stchris.co.uk

St. Francis’ College welcomes new Head of Prep

The Forest School sessions take place in ‘The Dell’, a large woodland area that has recently been refurbished and that provides a perfect location for the children to experience Forest School activities. Children visit The Dell from Kindergarten enjoying various activities from toasting marshmallows, to building dens to constructing skeletons from twigs and going on a bug hunt.

At Duncombe, Hertford’s only co-educational independent school for children aged from 2 – 11 years, they believe the best education is a well-rounded one.

To find out more call 01992 414100 or visit www.duncombe-school.co.uk

St. Francis’ College has announced that Mrs Helen Barsham is their new Head of Prep from this September. Mrs Barsham is an experienced teacher in both the state and independent sectors, with a BA in English and a MA in Classical Civilisation. Helen believes that as well as her teaching experience and academic qualifications making her suitable for this role, being a mum of two daughters helps her to empathise with parents and understand the environment in which they are raising their daughters.

Mrs Barsham is committed to providing the happiest schooldays for the girls; days that they will remember when they are older. She welcomes the opportunity to build relationships with the girls’ families as they are so important in their journey through life.

Mrs Barsham is joined by new Deputy Head of Prep, Mrs Carey Dickinson, to share this

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current journey. Mrs Dickinson has extensive experience in teaching in Prep schools and is an Oxford Historian.

To find out more call 01462 670511 or visit www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

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Clubs & Classes

The benefits of after school clubs and classes Whether or not you think you may be raising the next Picasso or David Beckham, there’s no doubting the pluses of after school clubs.

While finances may not permit your little ones being involved in different activities every night of the week, there’s no doubt that a couple of well-chosen clubs can be great for giving your child an insight into areas that the school curriculum doesn’t cover.

From ballet to basketball and art to archery, there’s an after school activity out there for every child. And the best thing about them is they’re brilliant for all sorts of reasons – not just learning a new skill.

For a start, after school clubs give kids the chance to let off steam outside of the classroom. When you consider that in many countries around the world, kids don’t even start school until 6 or 7 years old, a full day in the classroom for youngsters can be a big ask.

That’s why an alternative to textbook learning can be hugely rewarding.

So, why are clubs so important?

Team sports like football, rugby, and netball are not only brilliant for keeping kids active but also helping them learn team work where they can begin to appreciate what’s good for

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Abacus Maths: Centuries of knowledge combined with today’s technology

the whole team, rather than just thinking of themselves.

Competitive sports are also great for learning difficult life lessons like being a gracious winner - and loser.

However, if you’re on the lookout for team building clubs with a less competitive edge, you could consider Brownies and Scouts – kids love them!

Meanwhile, learning a musical instrument is ideal for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence. Drama clubs are perfect for shy kids who learn to find their voice singing and acting alongside others, while ballet and dance is suited for kids to learn discipline and self-expression.

Don’t forget the fun factor!

The list is endless. There are clubs for almost anything you can imagine. Archery, chess, horse riding, computer clubs, film making and even circus skills are all proving popular alongside the more traditional arts and crafts, swimming, tennis and Kung Fu. However, new skills, team work and confidence building aside, the most important thing to think about when deciding which club to choose is the fun factor.

The soroban abacus is a Japanese traditional calculating instrument with movable beads – it is used worldwide as an effective educational tool to teach children numbers and mental arithmetic. Children can quickly become competent arithmeticians with the abacus. You may have noticed if your own child is quick to calculate that they still find simple arithmetic questions difficult to solve when appearing in different formats.

This is especially true of word problems, which require children’s knowledge and understanding of the real world. For this reason, maths questions given in the abacus course are not always straightforward arithmetic questions but appear in a variety of forms, to encourage children not only to calculate quickly and accurately but also to think about problems and find out processes to solve them in different situations.

Many schools today teach maths concepts and processes to children initially, but then students are quickly left alone to learn by themselves or are expected to know by heart without much guidance or support for individual daily practice. In the abacus maths learning course, children as young as 5 years old are encouraged to learn the meaning and application of times tables as well as remember and recall the answers quickly. They are encouraged to explore and express patterns and processes to solve maths problems in various forms. Children also internalise their knowledge by regular exercises and practices in a structured way.

The bespoke online learning lab encourages regular practice at home using a specially developed curriculum, which has been drawn from the best of Japanese and international maths practice, adapted for the UK audience.

Finally, by introducing virtual classes, Abacus Maths bring together the best of tradition with the best of new technology.

To find out more call Noby Fujioka on 01442 800 808 www.abacusmaths.info

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Clubs & Classes Tuition Explore Learning The passion at Explore Learning is to help students achieve their potential and be the best they can be.

They get to know each child as an individual and help them to fall in love with learning. The goal is to build confident, fearless learners who are hungry for knowledge. Their award-winning approach has a proven record of supporting children both academically and attitudinally.

During the summer they have encouraged children and parents to learn new skills together, showing off what they’ve achieved back at school this September!

Find out more at explorelearning.co.uk or call 01483 447 414

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Kip McGrath Education Centre (Letchworth) Kip McGrath Letchworth offers English and maths tuition by fully qualified teachers for children of all ages and abilities.

Based on a FREE assessment, each student follows their own learning programme designed specifically for their

individual needs. The friendly and motivating atmosphere, in a modern and fully equipped learning environment, ensures that each student makes real progress in exactly the areas that they require, providing them with the confidence they need in order to achieve their full potential.

Call 01462 672227 or go to www.kipmcgrath.co.uk/ letchworth

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Clubs & Classes Centre 4 Excellence If you are a parent with a child who is struggling to learn and who is finding it frustrating trying to discover the cause of your child’s difficulties and how to help them, you may be interested in Centre 4 Excellence.

When a child is experiencing difficulties it can affect their behaviour and they can appear to be lazy, inattentive or disruptive when in fact what is happening is that when they try to listen and pay attention they cannot follow what is being said and so they eventually give up. This is known as Auditory Processing Disorder (APD).

Centre 4 Excellence uses Fast ForWord, a computer based program for children age 4 to 16+ of all abilities who have Auditory Processing, reading and spelling difficulties. The program helps improve memory, attention, processing speed and sequencing skills, this translates to better decoding, phonological awareness, spelling, understanding of syntax, reading fluency, vocabulary and comprehension.

To find out more call Florence Gardam 07919 067343 or email c4x.info@gmail.com

Hertfordshire Adult & Family Learning Services (HAFLS) HAFLS provides courses for adults aged 19+ in a variety of subject areas, ranging from English, Maths, Business Administration and Employability to First Aid, Art, Sewing and IT. Additionally, they are

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highly-experienced in delivering family-centred learning courses (learning with your child) that generally take place in children centres and schools throughout Hertfordshire.

They also deliver leisure courses that are competitively priced designed for fun and to learn new skills.

Call 01442 454745 or email hafls@hertfordshire.gov.uk to find out more.

Performance, Dance, Music Monkey Music Monkey Music offer awardwinning classes for babies & young children in Harpenden and St Albans. Monkey Music understands that music is fundamental to a pre-school aged child's development. Their innovative and progressive curriculum introduces music to children in a way that they can easily understand and enjoy.

Classes are small and encourage children to learn through catchy songs, games, instruments and dances. They offer a free trial class. Call Liz Barr on 01582 620446 or email harpenden.stalbans@monkeymusic. co.uk to book your free class.

Perform and Perform X

Stagecoach Theatre Arts

Perform provide drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7 year olds and 7-12 year olds. The classes, taught by theatre professionals, focus on developing confidence, co-ordination, communication and concentration. There is a new theme each term so children are always kept engaged and always have loads of fun.

Perform have recently introduced ‘Perform X’. These classes offer high energy weekly dance session for children aged 6-12 years. As with the drama classes, they also aim to boost physical coordination, concentration and movement skills whilst children get fit and have fun. The dance classes use original street and hip-hop music and are based on a specially designed curriculum that includes games, improvisation and high octane moves to get kids’ hearts beating faster.

To find out more call 020 7255 9120 or visit www.perform.org.uk/try for Perform and www.perform.org. uk/x for Perform X.

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools have been inspiring young people through the performing arts since 1988. This part-time theatre school, holding weekend term time classes, caters for children aged from 4 to 16 years, although some schools go up to age 18. Theatre professionals teach small groups of children the core theatre skills of acting, singing and dancing and sessions are designed to build confidence and develop communication skills, whilst also providing new opportunities in a fun, safe and secure environment. Some Stagecoach schools run holiday workshops during the summer or Easter school holidays. See advert on page 1 for your nearest class or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk

Top Hat Stage School First Steps First Steps are fun dance classes for children from 18 months old held in Harpenden and Redbourn.

‘Dance Together’ classes introduce children to movement with a parent or carer by their side and use exciting props and familiar music. As the children get older and their confidence grows they come into class with friends and take their ‘First Steps’ into the world of dance. 07792 309401 / www.ghdance.com

If you have children who love to dance, sing and act, then check out the Top Hat Stage School weekend courses for four to seventeen year olds, available in seven locations across Hertfordshire. Top Hat aims to offer children training in dance, drama and singing, in a fun filled and exciting environment. For those who want to pursue their passion for performing, there is the option to get LAMDA qualifications too.

To find out more go to www.tophatstageschool.co.uk or call 01727 812666

Best Theatre Arts

Jigsaw Arts Jigsaw has offered weekend performing arts classes to children aged 3-18 across London, Hertfordshire and the South East for over 20 years.

It has been an exciting year for the company, as Jigsaw has been shortlisted for The Business Award for Arts and Creative Services in the 2016 Lloyds Bank National Business Awards.

At the start of the new academic year many children will put on their jazz shoes to take their first leap into the performing arts. As they do so, they will gain an opportunity to build confidence and develop social skills and have lots of fun at the same time!

At Jigsaw, they understand that attending a performing arts school for the first time can be an exciting but nervous experience; that is why they offer a two week trial, giving the student the opportunity to try Jigsaw.

Find out more or book a trial call 0208 447 4530 or go to www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk.

After three weeks of summer theatre fun during which the Transylvania Express was boarded, Atlantis' Disco rediscovered and Oz Wars fought and won, Best is back in September for a term of pantomime - big characters, silly jokes, songs and dances.

Towards the end of term preparations will begin for the main show, when Best will be reviving their legendary musical 'Dreamcatcher'.

The Best School of Acting will be busy with a public show in December at Trestle Arts Base.

This group is a huge success with its first graduates going off to drama schools and loads of talent coming through the younger groups.

Best Theatre Arts have classes for the youngest children aged 3 months to 4 years (Best Beans) and go up to age 18. There is the choice of performance arts (acting, singing, dancing) and Best School of Acting for those who want to concentrate on drama.

To find out more call 01727 759634 or go to www.besttheatrearts.com www.bestscholofacting.com www.besttheatrearts.com

Tick Tock Music Tick Tock (for ages 6 months to 5 years) present a different performance each week and encourage their young audiences to participate in singing, actions, role-playing and song identification. Live keyboard accompanies the songs which are linked by amusing playacting scenes full of colourful costumes props and puppets.

07933 153054 / www.ticktockmusic.co.uk Mini Circuits Box Fit Zumba Pilates Football Dodgeball

Monday-Friday, term time and throughout the school holidays!

Have fun, be active & learn about nutrition.

For Boys and Girls All staff DBS checked and first aid trained

Say you saw it in

17

Clubs & Classes Pre-School Learning Jolly Bookworms Jolly Bookworms is a pre-school activity class based around children’s books. Every class features a popular children’s story plus interesting and fun activities. The ‘sound table’ introduces synthetic phonics, widely used to teach reading in primary schools. Sessions always include a whole-group game and refreshments. Give your child a head-start, and a life-long love of books, by taking them along to Jolly Bookworms.

07913128870 / www.jollybookworms.com

Stanborough Activity Centre – one of a kind!

Stanborough Activity Centre (SAC) have had a fantastic summer season with their action packed Holiday Club taking place on the south lake and parkland.

With days full of watersports tuition, team challenges, field games and unique activities such as ‘river stomp’.

All SAC instructors are fully trained and certified by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and British Canoeing and, more importantly, they’re ready to have some fun!

Holiday Club makes memories that will last a lifetime and friendships that never fade.

They next Holiday Club will be during October half term from 24th - 28th October. (See What’s On listing on page 20 and advert on page 24.)

During term-time Stanborough Activity Centre offer a huge rage of active water based and land based activities for children and young people, both for school groups and for individuals after school and at weekends. Some of the activities on offer include: orienteering, canoeing, kayaking,

raft building, archery and disability cycling.

They also offer birthday parties that are suitable for children aged 8-16 yrs.

To find out more or to book call 01707 276 276 or email stanboroughpark@finesseleisure. com

Active Everyone Active Get the new school year off to a swimmingly good start with Everyone Active’s award-winning swim activities.

Their comprehensive ‘Learn to Swim’ programme includes a wide range of activities to help your child start and maintain their aquatic journey.

The sessions include rookie lifeguarding, diving, water polo and even synchronised swimming. Lessons run for fifty weeks a year, six days a week and are available to children over the age of four months.

In addition, your child can get ‘Wet’n’Wild’ at the fun inflatable sessions and you can even make a splash as a family at the Family Fun Swim activities. There’s lots available at your local Everyone Active leisure centre. See advert on page 13.

Find out more at www.everyoneactive.com.

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Little Kickers and Little Rugby Little Kickers and Little Rugby provides fun and safe classes for boys and girls aged 18 months until their 7th birthday to develop skills in soccer and rugby. Classes incorporate many early learning goals and also offer children a positive introduction to sport.

Children are encouraged to

move from parent supported participation to active independent interaction.

Call Jamie (020 8440 6195) for Harpenden, St Albans, Berkhamsted and Hemel Hempstead.

Call Paul (01462 623084) for Hitchin, Stotfold, Baldock, Stevenage and Hatfield

Healthy U Gym Healthy U Gym is a fitness centre which aims to help women and children be active and get fit.

Educational Kids Fitness is for 5-15 year olds and is designed to keep kids active and healthy.

It teaches them how to have fun living a fitter and healthier lifestyle.

They offer Kids Fitness sessions during the school term and throughout the school holidays.

Working with Dacorum Get Set Go ensures that sessions are kept affordable for all families.

Find out more at 01442 769071 or visit www.healthyugym.com

www.littlekickers.co.uk

The XC XC is the only extreme sports facility of its kind in the UK, a truly world class centre. In addition to the only indoor concrete and wooden skate and BMX park in the UK, it also boasts a 60 x 14 metre high climbing wall, the longest indoor caving facility in Europe PLUS a challenging high ropes and free fall course. As well as open sessions, they also offer a wide range of courses for the very young such as Mini Mountaineers (3-4 year olds) and Little Rockies (5-6 year olds) right up to adults.

01442 507100 / www.thexc.co.uk

Sportspace As autumn arrives and the children return to school, Sportspace have a range of courses starting to keep little ones entertained after school and at weekends. Courses run during term time and include trampoline, badminton, minitennis, fencing, basketball and football. Golf is also available at Little Hay Golf Complex. www.sportspace.co.uk / 01442 507100

Health

Headlice: An irritating problem

Headlice facts: They can live under water for several hours They are passed from head to head when children sit and play together They are not a sign of being dirty – they prefer clean hair They do not only affect children, so always check your own hair too They can’t jump

By Sally J. Hall

Health Awareness Days: Migraine Awareness Week 4-11th September www.migrainetrust.org World Alzheimer’s Awareness Day – 21st September www.alz.co.uk www.alzheimers.org.uk Jeans for Genes Day – 23rd September www.jeansforgenesday.org World Heart Day – 29th September www.world-heart-federation.org World Cerebral Palsy Day – 5th October worldcpday.org OCD Awareness Week – 9-16th October www.ocduk.org World Mental Health Day – 10th October www.mentalhealth.org.uk Global Handwashing Day – 15th October globalhandwashing.org

How to cope with those nasty nits It’s every parent’s nightmare; the notices go up at school: “a case of headlice has been reported, so please check your children’s heads”. Your child begins to scratch. How do you cope with headlice – and can they be prevented?

spot and although most children will have telltale signs such as itching and the feeling of something moving in their hair, other children may have no idea at all. It’s often these children whose parents don’t realise they have headlice who will keep spreading it through the class, so even if your child displays no symptoms, always check regularly.

What are headlice?

How to check

Headlice, also known as nits, are tiny insects that live in human hair and feed on blood.

They are very small – they range from the size of a pinhead to a sesame seed, so it’s no surprise that they are difficult to see. Their discarded egg cases are white and look a bit like dandruff stuck to the hair. It’s often these empty cases, the ‘nits’, that you notice first, especially behind the ears and there may also be small, red, itchy bumps on the back of the neck, which is where the insects have bitten your child.

Your best friend is now your nit comb. When you wash your child’s hair, apply plenty of conditioner and comb through their hair in sections, making sure you don’t miss any areas. Look at the comb and check for small dots – they may be black, reddish brown, brown or grey. These are the lice. These should be removed under a hot tap in the basin or into a cup of hot water. Combing is your most important weapon against headlice, as even if you use a lotion or spray from the pharmacists, eggs may still hatch after you have treated the hair.

Are they obvious?

One of the main problems with headlice is that they are tiny, so they’re difficult to

Say you saw it in

What to treat the hair with A pharmacist can sell you an over-the-counter remedy which you use in the hair. You have to treat all family members and most products will tell you to treat again after a couple of weeks to take care of any eggs that slip through the net; lice have a 30-day life span, during which a female can lay five to 10 eggs a day. Some lotions are not suitable for the under-twos or for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Can I prevent them?

Whilst there is some evidence that they dislike tea tree oil and lavender, you can’t really prevent an infestation. Sorry.

Sally is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

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What's On Half Term Fun ALBAN ARENA St Peters Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3JE, www.alban-arena.co.uk Peppa Pig's Surprise!

29 Oct – 1pm, 4pm 30 Oct - 10am, 1pm Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in a live stage show. Wonderful songs and lots of surprises in this show for preschoolers.

Cost: £16. Child £14. Family £56

CELTIC HARMONY Brickendon Lane, Brickendon near Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG13 8NY 01438 718543 www.celticharmony.org Samhain Celebrations 23-29 Oct - 10am-4pm Celebrate Samhain, the Celtic New Year, with a week of activities. There’s a variety of hands-on workshops, activities and demonstrations over Half Term, including: pumpkin carving, exploration, broomstick making and have-a-go archery. Advance booking is recommended.

Samhain Winter Festival 30 Oct - 10am-4pm This is one of the biggest events of Celtic Harmony's year. There's so much going on including: archery, bonfires, drumming, pottery, story telling, face painting, pumpkin carving, woodland quests, bread making, processions, warrior training and much more! Pre-booking is absolutely essential.

Cost: Adults/Children: £8 Under 2s free.

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GORDON CRAIG THEATRE

HIGHFIELD PARK

Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk Drama Camp 24-28 Oct - 10am-4pm (Fri 9am-12noon) Peter Pan-themed Drama Camp.

Explore drama, music, singing, dance and visual art S. Devise a script to perform to family and friends.

The team have all worked as professional performers and will share tips of the trade and create a show to remember. Ages 6-12.

Cost: £110. Drama Academy Students £95. Sibling discount £15 off. Early / Late £8 extra per session.

Highfield Lane, St Albans, AL4 0DB. 01727 847242 www.highfieldparktrust.co.uk Highfield Park Bug Hunt 25 Oct - 10.30am-12.30pm Find the bugs hiding in the park and get a creepy-crawly treat.

Cost: £3 per child

HERTFORD MUSEUM 18 Bull Plain, Hertford, SG14 1DT 01992 582686 www.hertfordmuseum.org The Big Draw 25-27 Oct – 10.30am-3.30pm (last entry 3pm) Arty fun for half term. This year’s theme is STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Maths).

Cost: £1.50 per child

HERTS YOUNG MARINERS BASE 231 Windmill Lane, Cheshunt, EN8 9AJ 01992 628403 www.hymb.com Half-Term Activities 24-28 Oct Sailing, kayaking, archery, canoeing, fencing, bush craft, caving.

Cost: £15 per session or £120 for a week.

RHODES BISHOP’S STORTFORD 1-3 South Road, Bishop's Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 651746 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk Wrestlefest - The Return 23 Oct - 5pm It’s back! The show that gave rise to wrestling legends who were born, bred and broken.

Cost: £14. Concs £12. Family £48

RYE MEADS NATURE RESERVE Rye Road, Stanstead Abbotts, EN11 0EH. 01992 708381, www.rspb.org.uk Explore and Art 30 Oct - 12-2pm Go outside on an adventure to discover amazing creatures and beautiful nature. Then it’s back inside to create some artwork.

Fun for children and adults.

Booking essential.

Cost: £3. RSPB Members £2

SPORTSPACE HEMEL Hempstead, Park Road, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1JS. 01442 507100 www.sportspace.co.uk Mini Tennis 24 Oct - 12-1pm Want to be the next Wimbledon Champion? Learn new skills and have fun too. Ages 5-7.

Cost: £9. Member £7.10 Tots Tennis 24 Oct - 1.15-2.15pm As above for younger children.

Ages 3-4 (parents must stay).

Cost: £9. Member £7.10 Trampolining Workshops 25 Oct - 1.45-2.45pm (3-5 yrs); 3-4pm (Family sessions for ages 6-15 yrs) Bounce your way through the holidays!

Cost: £9. Member £7.10 Commando Run 23 Oct – 2-3pm 25-28 - 2.15-3.15pm Large pool inflatable. Commando run is suitable for children 8 yrs and over. Child must be able to swim 25 metres and be confident in deep water.

Cost: £5.40. Member £3.50

SPORTSPACE BERKHAMSTED Lagley Meadow, Douglas Gardens, Berkhamsted, HP4 3QQ. 01442 507100 www.sportspace.co.uk Intro to Target Shooting 26 Oct Introduction to shooting using specialised laser equipment.

Ages 8-13.

Cost: £9. Member £7.10 Go Fence 27 Oct Try fencing using specialised, age specific equipment. Ages 8-13.

Cost: £9. Member £7.10

STANBOROUGH PARK Stanborough Rd, Welwyn Garden City AL8 6DQ 01707 276276 stanboroughpark@finesseleisure. com Holiday Club 24- 28 Oct A fun, active outdoor holiday club. Activities include sailing, bushcraft, fishing, canoeing and rafting.

THE SANDPIT THEATRE The Ridgeway, St Albans, AL4 9NX. 01727 370067 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk The Adventures of Sinbad the Pirate 26 Oct - 11am, 2pm Follow Sinbad as he encounters a whale, a giant bird and an ogre!

Meet the puppets & create your own puppet to take home.

Cost: £6. Concs £4. Workshop materials £1 Dotty the Dragon 29 Oct - 11.30am, 2.30pm Dotty is a baby fire dragon who lives at the top of a mountain with her grumpy dad. An enchanting fairytale adventure with a very happy ending. Live music, puppets and high energy storytelling for ages 3-7.

Cost: £8. Concs £6

VERULAMIUM MUSEUM St Michaels, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4SW 01727 751810 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk Meet Queen Boudicca 22 Oct – 2-4.30pm Meet this amazing queen and hear her fascinating tales. Story telling sessions at 2.30pm and 3.30pm Cost: Museum entry applies for non-residents

Say you saw it in

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What's On Hands On History 28 Oct - 7.30-9.30pm Handle real and replica Roman artefacts. Learn how the people of Roman Verulamium kept themselves clean and tidy, constructed their homes, cooked and ate. Limited spaces booking essential. Cost: £5 pp Sunday Stories 30 Oct - 3-4pm Stories, activities and Red House Children's Book Award voting. In association with St Albans Children’s Book Group.

Age: under 7s. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: £2 (Free to St Albans Children’s Book Group members).

WYLLYOTTS THEATRE Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HN. www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk 01707 660067 Magic & Mayhem 25 Oct - 2pm Illusions, interactive magic, comedy and puppets for all the family.

Cost: £10. Child £8. Family £34

Halloween Events HATFIELD PARK FARM Off Church Street, Hatfield House, Hatfield, AL9 5HX. www.hatfieldparkfarm.co.uk Halloween Hoots 24-30 Oct - 10am-5.30pm A week of fun, crafts and games.

Including a spooky story telling session by the Hatfield witch and her owl.

HATFIELD TOWN CENTRE White Lion Square, Hatfield, AL10 0JJ, www.hatfieldtown.co.uk/WhatsOn Halloween Fest 29 Oct This fiendishly fun family event will see stall holders putting on activities for children, including prizes for best costume and Halloween treats to sample.

Funds will be donated to local charities.

through the gardens. Children’s fancy dress. Take your own decorated pumpkin, you may get a prize.

Pumpkin disco 4-6pm (no disco on 27th Oct). Child disco ticket includes drink and biscuit. Adult disco ticket includes a hot drink.

Max. 2 adult places per booking.

Ages 2 to 12. Booking essential.

Cost: Pumpkin Trail only ticket: admission from 12noon.

Combined Trail & Disco ticket: admission from 1pm / Adult: £3.50. 2-12 yrs: £12 for Trail + Disco, or £6.75 for just the Trail.

Non-participating under 2s free

MILL GREEN MUSEUM AND MILL Mill Green, Hatfield, AL9 5PD. 01707 357850 www.welhat.gov.uk/familyfun Two Days of Clay 25-26 Oct – 10am, 11.15am, 1.15pm, 2.30pm Make a Diwali candle holder, or something to remember a loved one for the Mexican Day of the Dead, or a clay pumpkin for Halloween. No booking required, but arrive at the start of the session as you will need a full hour to make your creations.

Ages 4+. (accompanied children only).

Carve A Pumpkin 27 Oct - 10am, 11.15am, 1.15pm, 2.30pm Carve your pumpkin ready for Halloween. No booking required, but arrive at the start of the session as you will need a full hour to make your creations.

Ages 4+. (accompanied children only).

Cost: £3 per child

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Akeman Street, Tring, HP23 6AP. www.nhm.ac.uk Museum by Torchlight 28 Oct – 5-8pm Dress up and bring your torch for a spooky time in the galleries where you can add to your costume with ghostly animal face paint. 5+yrs.

Cost: Suggested Donation £2, Face painting £2

KNEBWORTH HOUSE

PARADISE WILDLIFE PARK

Knebworth Park, Knebworth, SG3 6PY 01438 812661 www.knebworthhouse.com Pumpkin Trail & Treats, Pumpkin Disco 26-28 Oct Pumpkin trail and activities

White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, EN10 7QA 01992 470490 www.pwpark.com Howl-o-Ween 21 Oct-1 Nov Listen to wolves howl and come for a spooky evening at Paradise

22

Wildlife Park.

Contact venue for times and prices

RHODES BISHOP'S STORTFORD 1-3 South Road, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire, CM23 3JG 01279 651746 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk Rhodes Halloween Trail 23-27 Oct - 10am-4pm Hunt pumpkins around Rhodes and get a chocolate reward.

All ages (accompanied children only). Drop in Masks Workshop 23-27 Oct - 10am-3pm Make a spooky mask for Halloween or Guy Fawkes. No need to book.

All ages (accompanied children only). Drop in Cost: £2

ROYAL GUNPOWDER MILLS Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, EN9 1JY 01992 707370 www.royalgunpowdermills.com Spooky Secret Island 22-30 Oct Half-term fun. Professor Nitrate has packed his bags for the week and his evil twin Dr Gore takes over!

Normal admission: £9.75.

Concs £8.75. Child £7.75.

Under 3s free. Discounts online.

Family tickets available. Special event prices may differ

THE SANDPIT THEATRE The Ridgeway, St Albans, AL4 9NX. 01727 370067 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk Make It Spooky - Halloween Crafts Workshop 27 Oct - 10am-3.30pm (1 hour session slots) Make fabulously freaky Halloween masks and puppets.

Ages 3-7. (accompanied children only). £4 per child. Includes materials, squash & biscuits

VERULAMIUM MUSEUM St Michaels, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4SW 01727 751810 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk Crafty Capers 24-25 Oct - 2-4pm Craft activities with a Halloween theme. Accompanied children only. Ages 3-11. Drop in.

Cost: £1 (Entry charge applies for non-residents)

Witches 26 Oct - 10.30am-12.30pm; 2-4pm Halloween holiday activities. Do witches really have blue spit and eyes that change colour? Find out and create your own model witch detector. Advance booking essential. For ages 6-11.

Cost: £6 or £5 for Young Friends (Entry charge applies to nonresidents) Haunted Houses 27 Oct - 10.30am-12.30pm; 2-4pm Listen to some funny stories of spooky goings on and make your own model haunted house.

Advance booking essential. For ages 6-11.

Cost: £6 or £5 for Young Friends (Entry charge applies to nonresidents) Halloween Fun 28 Oct - 10.30am-12.30pm; 2-4pm Halloween craft activities and a ghost walk in which you will discover the stories of some interesting characters that haunt St Albans. ages 8-13. Advance booking essential.

Cost: £6 or £5 for Young Friends (Entry charge applies to nonresidents)

WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF 0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com Pumpkin Festival 22-30 Oct - 10am-5.30pm (last entry 4.30pm) Pick your free pumpkin from the Pumpkin Patch. Daily carving competition. For children too small to carve, show off your creative skills in the Pumpkin Arts and Crafts marquee.

Sam-tastic the magician casts spells in his 'Magic-ween' show.

Pig Races. Plus, all the fun of Willows

Firework Displays CASSIOBURY PARK Watford, WD18 7LG 01923 278333 community@watford.gov.uk www.watford.gov.uk Cassiobury Fireworks 5 Nov – 6.00-8.30pm Fireworks and fun.

6pm (Entertainment), 6.30pm (Live music), 7pm (Bonfire is lit), 7.30pm (19 minute spectacular firework display). No sparklers, fireworks, alcohol are allowed in the park.

DOWN HALL COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Essex CM22 7AS 01279 731441 www.downhall.co.uk Fireworks Night 3 Nov – 6.30pm (activities), fireworks 7.30pm Includes hot drink and hot snacks (Hog Roast, Burger or Hot Dog).

Activities for the children and fireworks. Booking essential.

Cost: £18.95 per adult. £9.95 per child (under 12s).

ROYAL GUNPOWDER MILLS Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey, Essex EN9 1JY 01992 707370 www.royalgunpowdermills.com Guy Fawkes Festival & Fireworks 5-6 Nov - Gates 2pm. Fireworks 7pm Learn about 17th century life, meet the ghost of Guy Fawkes and celebrate with a spectacular 15 minute firework display. Last admission 6.30pm.

Normal admission: £9.75. Concs £8.75. Child £7.75. Under 3s free. Discounts online. Family tickets available. Special event prices may differ

TRING PARK CRICKET CLUB London Road, Tring HP23 6HA festivalfiretring@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ TringFestivalOfFire Tring Festival of Fire 5 Nov - 6pm for 7.30pm Food and drink stalls, a guy competition and live music from local artists with a spectacular fireworks display set to music.

VERULAMIUM PARK St Michael's Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW www.stalbanscathedral.org Verulamium Fireworks Spectacular 5 Nov – Gates at 6pm Firework start 7.30pm A 25 minute firework display organised by a volunteer team of 400 locals from a variety of organisations. Cost: not available at time of going to print.

WELWYN GARDEN CITY FOOTBALL AND SOCIAL CLUB Herns Way, Panshanger, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 1TA 01707 329358 www.welwyngardencityfc.org.uk Fireworks Display 4 Nov Annual firework display.

See website near the time for more details and entry prices.

Panto Preview BARN THEATRE www.barntheatre.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk 16-31 Dec

GORDON CRAIG THEATRE www.gordon-craig.co.uk Peter Pan 25 Nov-22 Jan

HARPENDEN PUBLIC HALLS www.harpendenpublichalls.co.uk Cinderella 10-22 Dec

HAWTHORNE THEATRE www.hawthornetheatre.co.uk Dick Whittington 17 Dec-4 Jan

HERTFORD THEATRE www.hertfordtheatre.com Little Red Riding Hood 3 Dec -1 Jan

RADLETT CENTRE www.radlettcentre.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk 10 Dec – 3 Jan

RHODES THEATRE www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk Cinderella 10 Dec-7 Jan

THE ALBAN ARENA

Heritage Day 11 Sep - 12-4pm Explore the basement, dungeons, Robing Room and Downshire Suite. Medieval encampment, medieval battles, falconry and more. Plus, historic photo trail.

RICKMANSWORTH AQUADROME Frogmoor Lane, Off Harefield Road, Rickmansworth, WD3 1NB 01923 776611 www.threerivers.gov.uk Bat Walk 18 Sep – 6.45-8.15pm A guided walk with Park Rangers.

Discover the bats natural habitat.

Bat detectors provided. Booking required. Cost: Free

FAMILY BARN DANCE St Francis Church, Church Road, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6QJ 01707 694191 www.stfranciswgc.org.uk 24 Sep - 5.30-8pm Family fun with The Brookfield Band and Caller. Supper provided.

Pay bar.

Email nikkiclarestfranciswgc@ outlook.com to book.

Cost: £7 per adult.

Under 12s free.

CHORLEYWOOD HOUSE GROUNDS Rickmansworth Road, Chorleywood, Rickmansworth, WD3 5SL 01923 776611 www.chorleywood-pc.gov.uk Chorleywood Community Apple Orchard Day 1 Oct - 11am to 3pm A fun day for families and the local community. Cost: Free

HIGHFIELD PARK Highfield Lane, St Albans, AL4 0DB 01727 847242 www.highfieldparktrust.co.uk Highfield Park Apple Day 1 Oct - 2-4pm An afternoon to celebrate apples. Children’s games, tug of war, stalls, refreshments and entertainment. Visitors will be able to buy Highfield Park’s own apples, juice and cider.

ST ALBANS & HARPENDEN FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL St Peter’s Street, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL1 3JX, www.enjoystalbans.com Street Finale 1 Oct - 12-6pm Food-themed street party.

www.alban-arena.co.uk Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs 8 Dec - 8 Jan

THE SPOTLIGHT www.broxbourne.gov.uk Cinderella 14-30 Dec

WATERSMEET www.watersmeet.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk 8-31 Dec

WATFORD PALACE THEATRE www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk Beauty and the Beast 2–31 Dec

WYLLYOTTS THEATRE www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk Dick Whittington 14 Dec-4 Jan

Places to go THE GRAND VINTAGE FAIR The Jubilee Centre, Catherine Street, St Albans, AL3 5BU 07522 387661 9 Sep – 12.00noon A vintage fair held at this St Albans community centre that is always buzzing with events

HERTFORD CASTLE Castle Street, Hertford, SG14 1HR 01992 552885 www.hertford.gov.uk

Say you saw it in

23

What's On

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Printed by Warners Midlands Plc, Bourne, Lincs., PE10 9PH. Families Herts is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

FamiliesÂŽ is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Herts are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.