Waddesdon Manor is delighted to announce the launch of a new Conservation Hub in their gardens, a space for visitors to engage with the rich wildlife, habitats, landscape and conservation projects at Waddesdon
The opening was marked by renowned presenter, wildlife cameraman and self-confessed ‘nature-nerd’, Hamza Yassin, cutting the ribbon on Saturday 8th June. The Hub will host a variety of activities, including interactive workshops, wildlife camera streams and nature trails. Visitors can meet staff and volunteers to hear about sustainability initiatives and conservation projects.
Waddesdon Manor promises a ‘Summer of Play’ fi lled with a range of fun activities over the holidays. It offers something for everyone – from garden games to axe throwing and archery, with all activities included in admission. As a bonus, kids will get FREE admission to the house and grounds from 24th July until 26th August! More at: �� waddesdon.org.uk
Quarter of children aged 3 and 4 own a smartphone
A quarter of children aged 3 and 4 in the UK now own a smartphone according to new data that comes as the Government considers banning all children under 16 from owning a mobile phone.
The fi gures, from the communications regulator Ofcom, show high and rising rates of online activity by children of infant-school age, with 38% of children aged 5 to 7 using social media, (compared with 30% a year ago) and 76% of them using a tablet. Ofcom’s annual study of children’s online habits also found the proportion of children aged 5 to 7 sending messages or making voice and video calls had risen from 59% to 65% in the last year. The number of children of that age using WhatsApp rose from 29% to 37% and the proportion using TikTok increased from 25% to 30%. More info: �� ofcom.org.uk
Festival of ArchaeologyBringing people together
The Festival of Archaeology will be running from 13th to 28th July and this year’s theme is ‘Archaeology and Community.’
Join educational guided walks, talks and get involved with exciting archaeological excavations. Find events online: archaeologyuk.org
Delve into our local history and enjoy a free family day at Discover Bucks Museum in Aylesbury. Find out about the early people in Bucks, from prehistoric times through to Roman, Saxon, Viking and Medieval times. Meet an Anglo-Saxon woman mistakenly called ‘the Aston Clinton Princess’ and fi nd out why she’s not really royalty.
The event is part of the Festival and will be held on Saturday 13th July, 11am-3pm. Entry to the Museum for the day is free and there will be lots of crafts for kids to take part in, including: coin rubbing, brooch making, water excavation, cave painting and a sandpit dig. Book your free tickets online: �� discoverbucksmuseum.org
The Summer Reading Challenge 2024
The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.
Children can read any books they like on the Summer Reading Challenge; stories, fact books, poetry, jokes, graphic novels. This year’s theme is ‘Marvellous Makers’ and the organiser’s aim is to tap into children’s imaginations, telling amazing stories and coming up with fun new creations, to celebrate the creative arts. It’s all free, fun and a great way to keep children reading over the summer holidays.
The Challenge will launch in libraries on 6th July and continue until 1st September. More info: �� summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
Charity single to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day
To commemorate the 80th anniversary of D-Day, a café in high Wycombe has released a song raising money for veterans’ welfare.
‘Forever Dancing in Your Heart’ is an original track from the team at the Air Raid Shelter Café and Tea Room in High Wycombe along with a group of veterans and customers. To commemorate 80 years since the landings, the song was written for the men and women who lived through it. The single was made to raise money for ‘The Spirit of Normandy Trust’ charity, which cares for veterans and ensures they aren’t forgotten. You can support the charity, and mark the occasion, by downloading a copy of the single for 99p from Apple or Amazon Music.
This issue includes an interview with the singer and the Air Raid Shelter Café founder, Chris Miller, read it on page 24.
Free theatre tickets for kids
Kids go free to over 50 top West End shows this summer! It’s all about introducing young people to theatre over the holidays. This year, Kids Week performances will run from Wednesday 24th July – Friday 6th September. From exciting productions like Hamilton, Harry Potter And The Cursed Child, Guys & Dolls, to favourites including Horrible Histories – Terrible Tudors, The Lion King, Matilda The Musical, Mrs Doubtfire, Shrek, Wicked and The Wizard Of Oz, there is something for all the family to enjoy. They will also have a programme of activities to get kids more involved - some shows will have a post-show Q&A, as well as show specific offerings from dance, musical theatre and puppetry workshops. A child 17 and under can go free to any participating show when accompanied by an adult paying full price and there are no booking fees. To find participating shows and tickets, visit:�� officiallondontheatre.com/kids-week
Little Voices BIG LEAPS
To book a free class in Amersham, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Gerrards Cross, Tring or Wendover visit try.perform.org.uk
By Claire Lockie-Williams
Scorching Summer Splashes
It’s a sizzler this summer at Odds Farm Park! The rare animal breeds farm near Beaconsfield is celebrating six weeks of scorching summer, from 24th July to 3rd September, with the opening of their H²Odds water play area. Kids can move water throughout the area using pumps, channels, streams and rivets and can cool off in the pools. There’s also farmyard fun, tractor rides, mini golf and the play barn to explore. A special Summer Sizzler Pass for £34.95 gives guests unlimited access to the farm park every single day of the summer holidays.
Splash and paddling pools have finally re-opened their doors, with
Gadebridge Park and Cassiobury Park leading the way with free summer splashes. Plus, open air pools, like the Wycombe Rye and Chesham Moor pool have their own bookable sessions.
Not so much splashing, but for the seaside feel, Aylesbury Vale is being transformed on 7th July! Step onto the beach and enjoy Punch and Judy magic, practise circus skills, volleyball, face painting and more. Splash and Play at Parson’s Close recreation ground, with its beach, splash pools and park open daily.
Embracing the Great Outdoors
With six weeks of holidays to fill, there’s plenty of outdoor activities to try out and get your fill of sunshine. Venture into the woods this summer for a day of family fun at Go Ape Wendover. Their Treetop Adventure offers entry level thrills for kids over 1m tall, starting with a low loop on the ground before heading up into the trees. Treetop Adventure Plus is for anyone over 6 years old and 1.2m tall. Conquer more than 20 treeto-tree crossings and soar through the air on alpine zip lines whilst
immersing yourself in the beauty of the forest. If you’re aged 10 and above and over 1.4 meters, reach new heights, Tarzan swings and ziplines with Treetop Challenge. Don’t miss our Ticket Giveaway on page 13.
If you enjoy a traditional flower show, then head to Lee Common for flowers, dancing, competitions and entertainment at their annual event on 20th July. The Iver Environment Centre is supporting immersion into nature with environment-based fun activities and a wild week for the adventurous alongside pond dipping evenings. For anyone fancying a dress up and the chance to dance amidst a piggy play session, then Kew Little Pigs are hosting a Mad Hatters Tea Party at their two Alice in Wonderland themed days including face painting and a bouncy castle.
Throughout the summer, Amersham Field Centre is celebrating everything Eco! Encouraging younger children to embrace their Eco Explorer with outdoor fun, Marvellous Mammal searches, Super Stone Age activities and Pirate Antics. While older EcoAdventurers can escape an island, survive the Stone Age, get curious
Haddenham, High Wycombe, Princes Risborough and Tring Rock'n'Roll for babies, Heigh-Ho for 1-2 yr olds, Jiggety-Jig for 2&3 yr olds, Ding-Dong for 3&4 yr olds
about creatures and explore the outdoors. There’s also Summer Family Nature Days for everyone to have fun while reconnecting with nature and the great outdoors.
Feel the wonder of wildlife at Whipsnade Zoo, the UK’s biggest zoo. Discover over 10,000 animals and enjoy expert animal talks every day. Kids can run off some energy in their huge outdoor playground, including a dedicated water area and soft play. The newly opened Monkey Forest is a must-see, whether by walking, or by steam train ride around the grounds. If you’re feeling adventurous, sleepovers can be arranged in the Lookout Lodge. There’s a whole day of special family memories to be made.
Buckinghamshire’s Country Parks are wonderful to explore with Black Park leading the way in announcing a Summer Under the Stars with their outdoor theatre shows plus a range of exciting Forest School sessions and crafts as well as a thrilling Summer Trail held between 19th and 23rd August.
Crafts, Constructions and Creativity
For hands on experiences, there are some fabulous places to visit which
host fun activities. Chiltern Open Air Museum is a brilliant destination to visit, offering a unique opportunity to step back in time.
Throughout the museum’s 45-acre site, visitors can explore over 30 historic buildings. The Museum also features a working historic farm with rare breed animals and beautiful gardens to wander. The Museum hosts special events and activities for visitors of all ages. From hands-on demonstrations of traditional crafts to family-friendly crafts and activities. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a day out with the family, Chiltern Open Air Museum is a must-visit destination this summer.
It’s all peachy at the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden for avid James and the Giant Peach fans with story-telling, constructions, crafts and Squiffling
Family Fun
Science activities related to the book itself. There’ll be minibeast crafts with jumbley junk modelling, bug house building and even the chance to get up close to the critters themselves. They are teaming up for a special day on 23rd August with the Tring Natural History Museum to explore curious cabinets and the specimens & secrets they hold within.
The Natural History Museum in Tring is returning the favour this summer by hosting a free drop-in day on 14rd August with treasured Roald Dahl items on display while also offering free crafting, sketch and scribble and handling sessions every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the summer holidays. Wycombe Museum and Wycombe Library are teaming up to put on a story time and celebratory crafts event to learn more about the History of Chiltern Chairs.
Festival Fun
For a massive family day, Henleyon-Thames is boasting its Summer Fest on 24th August, an array of astounding acts including aerobatics, parachuting, motocross and fireworks. There’s dance acts and demonstrations, plus the chance to raise funds by bungee jumping. Or head over to the last ever Towersey Festival after an amazing 60 years at
Family Fun
Claydon Estate for an epic four-day festival embracing tradition and the best in dance, comedy, workshops and street entertainment.
Cosgrove Canal is holding a canal Festival and Craft Fair to raise money for restoration works along the canal. They promise a day of fun with historic and trade boats, crafts, games and entertainment for all. While at Buckingham’s Fringe Festival, Buckingham Council are celebrating cultural diversity in an eight-day long festival on 20th-28th July which embraces, arts, sports and activities for adults and children alike.
It’s a bit of a different festival with Henley Swim Festival, celebrating the joys of the river and offering a swim to everyone; with water games, wellness areas and food and drink plenty. Carrying on the river celebrating theme is Riverfest in Onley on 7th July. There’s river rafting, duck racing, live bands and crafting for all the family.
It’s Hats Off! to Chesham who are boasting their annual weekend celebration, with free entertainment galore; music, stalls, climbing wallsdon’t forget your hat!
Musical Montages and Fabulous Theatrics
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre are serving up theatrical treats this summer starting with a production based on the children’s book ‘13 Storey Treehouse’; there’s flying cats, an invasion of monkeys and a beautiful mermaid. There’s also a special charity fundraising production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory staged by and for the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity. They end summer with a bang (or fizzing and whizzing) with the magnificent Ministry of Science.
For an amazing community vibe, there’s the free Parklife weekend in Aylesbury Vale Park which starts with Pride in the Park. A threeday event which has ‘Battle of the Bands,’ live music, kids entertainment, community stalls and finishes with Prom in the Park. While at The Elgiva there’s a world of enchantment and music with the Princess Concert.
café to sample. With special events including an Emergency Services Day, where everyone can admire emergency services vehicles, (and as a bonus emergency service personnel can go for free!), and a Vintage Vehicle Rally which will include many classic vehicles for admiration. Thomas and Percy are chugging into the railway too, with Sir Topham Hatt welcoming visitors and waving them off on adventures.
It’s a Summer of Play at Waddesdon Manor with their open play area, garden games, music and theatre. There’s a very diverse and intriguing selection to choose from with a Vegetable Plot Show, Jemima Puddle Duck, Buzz and A Midsummer’s Nights Dream to enjoy. The Berkshire Birds Of Prey will also be visiting and there will be archery and axe throwing on select days too. The month is packed full of fun activities for all the family and ends with a scorcher of a Chilli Fest. As a special bonus, kids get free admission to the house and grounds until 26th August!
There’s lots of family fun to be had at the world’s oldest original model village. Explore the unique and fascinating grounds of Bekonscot Model Village. Marvel at tiny trains, fabulous farms and beautiful crafted architecture. There’s also an interactive museum, ride-on railway and play area to explore. Over the summer, they are entertaining a Miniature Magic Tour and creative crafts.
If safe cracking, code breaking and delving into history appeals, then Bletchley House’s ‘Summer of Fun’ may hit all those buttons. There’s also giant garden games and live vintage music to enjoy. Classic cars are on show at the Gerrards Cross Community Association (GXCA) for all budding enthusiasts and long-term lovers alike.
and workshops. Plus, there’s 100s of prizes up for grabs including a TUI holiday voucher worth £1000.
Discover Bucks Museum have a packed programme of activities to keep children of all ages entertained. For Star Wars fans, the amazing ‘May The Toys Be With You’ exhibition with displays of vintage toys and posters. There are special craft days from Make-A-Toy Mondays to Fantastic Fridays. During a visit you can experience a sensory playroom, add to a Tudor mural, enjoy water and sand play, plus giant games and outdoor toys in a beautiful Victorian garden. For hands-on discovery inspired by Roald Dahl’s stories, you can enjoy their Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery.
Imagination is the key at The Story Museum this Summer; their newest immersive exhibition ‘Here be Dragons’ is opening on 13th July with daring Dragons, their fearsome foes and faithful friends. For a special family day on 6th July, watch out for fabulous monsters and join in the ‘Alice in Wonderland’ celebrations, complete with storytelling, street theatre and trails. There’s also the classics of the museum to explore, with the whispering wood and its talking trees, plus a variety of collections on offer.
Village Fetes and Community Fun Days.
Hawridge and Cholesbury have a lovely vintage fair with classic stalls, games and a raffle. Waddesdon Village fete showcases a dual flypast by spitfires, a miniature railway, inflatables and animal antics. There’s also a special Youth Got Talent at the Wycombe Wanderers Football club which is showcasing African Caribbean culture as well as promoting local businesses and services. With music from young people and refreshments aplenty.
There’s plenty to do at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre this summer, especially with £1 summer steaming tickets for kids on select days. There are unlimited steam train rides, a railway museum, visitor centre, travelling post office and
Eden Shopping Centre is inviting everyone to join them on Saturday 13th July for the return of Eden’s Big Day Out, the ultimate one-day family event in High Wycombe. This year’s event brings even more family fun with live stage shows, Hey Duggee and Bluey. Meet and greets with Chase from Paw Patrol. You can enjoy a family disco, face painting
Whatever the weather, this summer is set to be a stupendeous one with lots of opportunities for quality family fun! Fill up your diary with inspiration from our What’s On Guide from page 26, including the dates of all the events included in this feature.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @Families Chiltern.
Super Summer Fun
Days Out J u n i o r R e p o r t e r s
College Lake
By Lilly Grice
College Lake is a nature reserve in Tring and a SSSI (Site of Special scientific interest) because of its Ice Age rocks. It used to be a farm in the Middle Ages, then it was turned into a chalk quarry in 1967. When it was a quarry, there was a massive, sharp wheel that cut through the chalk. I saw it at the edge of the lake. When the quarry owners stopped digging, they made the quarry into a nature reserve with lakes. They made islands so that the birds could have a safe place to live.
At the reserve you can see various birds flying gracefully around the lakes. Terns, Canadian geese, swans and ducks are just some of the birds that you can see. In the woods I saw grey tits and blue tits feeding on a bird feeder. A clever jackdaw tried to knock the feeder over so it could have some nuts too.
There are trails around the lake. In one place there were layers of rock. The layer of chalk at the bottom was 95 million years old. When I saw this, I was astonished. There were also rocks that were formed 150,000 years ago when Britain was in the Ice Age. Did you know that during the Ice Age, even the woolly mammoths could not live here because it was so cold?
I came across a hide called ‘Window in the Woods.’ As I opened a window, I saw a pond which was level with my eyes. Surrounding the pond were buttercups, reeds and grass. At every hide I stopped and got out my binoculars and saw interesting birds that could not be seen in detail with the naked eye. I also spotted butterflies and a lilac pyramidal orchid.
The lake has a visitor centre and a small café The roof is covered in grass. It costs £4 to park. It is free to enter, but they would like you to give a donation.
Wicked
By Lily Kirsch
One short day in the Emerald City! I was lucky enough to go and see Wicked in London for my birthday treat! My cousin and I travelled into London on the tube from Amersham - it’s always quite easy to get into the city from Buckinghamshire.
We attended a matinée performance which gave us enough time to visit a few shops and have some lunch at Pizza Express before the show. We arrived in plenty of time to find our seats and grab some snacks. There was lots of options like popcorn on offer but my Mum said it was a bit pricey. We also bought a programme which had lots of information and some great pictures.
This was the first time I watched a musical in a theatre and I was blown away by it all! The set was great, the costumes were amazing and the songs were so brilliant that I got my Mum to order the soundtrack CD when we were on our way home.
The show tells the tale behind the Wizard of Oz so it might help if you know that story before you go. I loved both Ethelba and Glinda and my favourite songs were ‘Popular’ and ‘Defying Gravity’ which was just epic. I would highly recommend going to see Wicked!
The Rye
By Andrea Murphy
On the 19th May, I went to the Rye in High Wycombe. The Rye is a huge field with a playground, cafe, woods, boat ride and the lido, (an outdoor swimming pool) and a stream. We spent all of our time in the new playground. There is a climbing frame with monkey bars, wobbly bridges, rock walls and a pole vault. I enjoyed the hanging round-about and the half tunnel slide the most. My little brother’s favourite part was the spinning saucer. The new playground is lots more fun than the old one! Now the new playground is finished, I think we’ll go back much more!
fostering@buckinghamshire.gov.uk
@fosterbucks
Summer Fun
Best Outdoor Toys for Summer 2024
Ah summertime! The days are longer, the weather is warmer and we have more opportunities to head outside into the fresh air. We asked our friends at The Good Play Guide (goodplayguide.com) to recommend a range of top toys and activities that will provide hours of entertainment. Different toys develop different skills through play and these are broken into four key categories to inspire you: Active, Nature, Arty and Educational.
Educational
Waterwall
For a splashtastic time, look no further than the Waterwall for hours of fun. Perfect for long summer days in the garden, your child will love designing a pathway for the water to successfully run through the tubes. They may not succeed straight away but the fun is in the trying! RRP £99.99.
GALT Travel Activity Case
This set contains four books of educational travel activities that will keep children occupied on journeys or on a rainy day. The fun, mess-free activities include puzzles, word searches, dot-to-dots, stickers and colouring, getting the brain whirring as children indulge their language skills, dexterity and creativity. RRP £12.99.
Arty
Paint Pop Face Paint Sticks
Face painting is made easier with Paint Pop Face Paints. The silky-smooth paint is inside the stick; simply twist and you’re ready to paint! You can enjoy super-clean, mess-free and convenient creative fun when at home or out and about on your travels. Each set includes twelve bright, vibrant colours for greater creativity. RRP £9.99.
River Rock Paint Kit
Rock painting is a fun activity for kids that can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors. With fifteen smooth river rocks to paint, plus a full complement of art supplies, kids can create decorative stones to tell stories with or showcase in your home or garden, proudly displaying their artistic imagination. RRP £19.99.
Active Nature
Geosafari Kidnoculars
Magnify nature with these 3x no-focus binoculars and built-in microphone - they are the perfect tool to encourage children to engage with and learn about nature. Looking and listening to their surroundings teaches kids observation skills and promotes the learning of new vocabulary centred around nature. RRP £26.50.
Gazillion Bubbles Giant Power Wand
Sometimes it’s the simplest things in life that are the most fun. Kids and grown-ups will love the giant bubbles that whoosh out at the touch of a button. Great for an active summer afternoon in the garden or for entertaining children at a birthday party, this is sure to be a big hit. RRP £12.
Xootz Bubble-GoScooter
The Xootz Bubble-Go Scooter is a three wheeled scooter that blows bubbles as you ride, cleverly combining two popular children’s pastimes in one. With its wide footplate and sturdy three-wheeled style, younger riders will find it a breeze to use and will be the envy of their friends as they ride a scooter while blowing bubbles out behind them. RRP £49.99
Win a Family Ticket to the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre
The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden has teamed up with Families Chiltern to offer one lucky reader a family day pass (2 adults and 2 children) to visit the attraction dedicated to one of the UK’s most celebrated authors.
Visitors to the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden are in for a peachy time this summer as the leisure attraction gears up to celebrate one of Roald Dahl’s best-loved books, James and the Giant Peach (Saturday 20th July – Sunday 1st September).
The attraction, set over two floors and featuring artefacts including Dahl’s original writing hut, has a host of activities lined up to keep families entertained Tuesdays –Sundays throughout the school summer holidays. Younger visitors can look forward to some hands-on workshops inspired by the book including science experiments, making an insect home and creating miniature gardens. There will also be daily storytelling, a themed trail and a craft room. �� roalddahlmuseum.org
To enter this giveaway, join our newsletter and to view our terms and conditions, scan code or click here to enter. The closing date for entries is 26th July 2024.
We have a family ticket to give away for a reader to experience a new level of excitement on Go Ape’s Treetop Adventure or Treetop Adventure Plus course in Wendover Woods. Treetop Adventure is designed for children over 1m tall, and children over 6 years and 1.2m for Treetop Adventure Plus. The family ticket is for two adults and two kids to enjoy the experience on a date of their choice. Enter by 26th July 2024 and for Terms & Conditions, see https://bit.ly/FamiliesChilternTCs.
To enter, simply answer the following question: What is the minimum height for Treetop Adventure Plus? A) 1.6m B) 2m C) 1.2m
How to choose the best reading book for your child
By Zuzu Jordan
‘I don’t like reading’ are words parents dread to hear and battle to change and in such households, reading can become a non-negotiable, timed and recorded homework chore. Yet we all strive to mould children who want to read, for pleasure, which becomes increasingly difficult to achieve when we have to compete with modern devices.
So how do we encourage a love for reading and books?
It starts with knowing how to match reading material to the child. When children are given complete free rein in choosing a book, sometimes it can be overwhelming.
Forgive the cliché, but they often ‘judge a book by its cover’ or pick a book they find too challenging to actually read and end up giving up on it all together. Children need just as much support in choosing a book as they do reading one.
Try some of these techniques next time they seem stuck in choosing something:
Five finger rule. Ask them to read the first page of a book. If they struggle to read more than five words on that page then the book doesn’t suit them YET!
Try different genres. Not all reading has to be fictional. Expose children to non-fiction in the form of child-friendly newspapers or information text on a subject they might be interested in.
Find an author your child likes and research other works by the same author.
Listen to the audio version. Listening to someone else read can motivate children to read the book themselves.
Use organisations like Book Trust and CLPE (Centre for Literacy in Primary Education) which have created recommended book lists for different age groups.
TOTAL TUTORING
Find out what they are reading in school. What other books are similar? Which other books did the same author write? Meet the author. Getting a signed copy and meeting the author can encourage children to read. Look out for events at your local book shop.
Apply for the Blue Peter Book Badge which requires children to read a book and submit a review.
Reading comprehension:
Becoming a confident reader is more than just decoding words or ‘barking’ at the text. Children who can seemingly read fluently can lack understanding which may go undetected.
There are different types of questions you can ask which will help your child to develop their comprehension of what they read. For example: retrieval questions, vocabulary questions, inference questions, prediction questions, summarising questions, author choice questions and giving opinion type of questions. All these questions are worded to encourage your child to interact with the text on a deeper level.
In order to answer comprehension questions, your child needs to learn to scan a text quickly. Viewing reading passages in chunks or paragraphs will make this less overwhelming for them and looking for key words and numbers will certainly help with retrieval type questions. Most other questions require evidence and therefore actual examples from the text. When you are reading with your child, ask them for evidence of their opinions on characters, plot, setting and vocabulary.
Continuity of learning during the summer break
By Zuzu Jordan
School summer holidays offer families a chance to spend time together and get some much deserved respite. However, no one wants learning to seep away or become stagnant. Try some of these techniques to help with learning continuity:
Expanding children’s vocabulary is incredibly important to their writing and reading comprehension. When on holiday or just going on day trips, think about the new words you are exposing them to. Equally, playing games at home such as Scrabble and Heads Up can be educational.
Make sure books are a part of every day. Whenever you read to your child or let them listen to an audio book, they form the sense of a beginning, middle and end of a story. Sign up for the free Summer Reading Challenge at your local library which rewards children for their efforts. Make time to chat about what your children are reading; it will raise their engagement and comprehension levels.
Utilise educational apps to help children practise skills and enhance their learning.
Practise literacy skills by writing a post card on holiday, emails or even letters to friends and family, journaling, blogging and entering writing competitions.
Brain boosting games
We don’t want our children to stop ‘thinking’ over the summer holidays. But what is thinking? Any cognitive processes such as problem solving, decision making, imagining and planning. Try these:
Memory games and puzzles - place objects in front of your child, cover them and see how many they can remember. Good for hand-eye co-ordination and general problem solving.
Set projects such as raising awareness on environmental issues or charity fundraising. This can encompass a range of skills including literacy and numeracy.
Teach skills that help your child to navigate through life. For example: touch typing, reading bus or train timetables, cooking a meal, den building, map reading, planning an event, packing for a trip and First Aid.
Physical activities are essential and more appealing in the summer when the weather is kinder to us. Set goals like learning to ride a bike or swimming the length of a pool.
Relaxing on routines is important but remember that routines in the weeks leading up to returning to school help with the transition in going back.
‘Thunk’ questions which don’t have a right or wrong answer but encourage independent thinking e.g. ‘if your pet could talk, how would it describe you?’
Learning an instrument, language or any new skill engages every part of the brain.
Mindfulness for kids helps increase focus, amongst other benefits.
Exercise plays a crucial role in boosting memory, cognition and motor co-ordination.
Known for its bespoke, nurturing style and brilliant academic results, Gateway School is a non-selective co-educational independent school for children aged 2-11.
We would love to show you all that Gateway School can offer you and your family. Call Helen on 01494 867806 or scan the QR code to find
Play games where your child uses the opposite hand to their writing hand. This is known to increase brain activity. Looking for a school to bring out the very best in your child?
Early Years
Top Five Baby Apps
Parenting has never been easier than today with the rise of technology. There are many apps on the market, both free and paid, to help you navigate parenthood. Here are some of the best.
1. The Best App for Baby Tracking: BabyTime
If you’re looking for the one app that tracks all your baby’s needs and helps you navigate parenthood with ease, then look no further because BabyTime has it all.
The all-in-one baby app helps you monitor everything from your baby’s feeding routine (feeding times, bottles, pumping) to sleep patterns, bath times and even diaper changes. All the information is presented in an easy-tounderstand, customisable graph so you can establish your baby’s natural rhythm and improve their routines. You can also share this information with any babysitters.
2. The Best App for Cognitive Development: Kinedu
Cognitive development is a vital part of your baby’s growth. Infants tend to explore the environment around them through their senses, thus stimulating their early brain development.
To help you come up with a variety of activities that stimulate your baby’s cognitive development, the Kinedu app features over two thousand expert-designed playtime ideas specifically tailored for your baby. You can join daily live and on-demand classes, reach certain milestones and read progress charts and developmental insights, all while your baby is having fun on their playmat.
All the activities are designed by expert education specialists, gaining the recognition of Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child.
3. The Best App for Tracking Feeding Schedules: Baby Feed Timer
Feeding is a big priority when it comes to looking after your newborn. Amidst the numerous chores you need to complete, it can become quite daunting to remember your baby’s feeding times. In the first days, you need to breastfeed your baby every one to three hours and that slowly progresses to two to four hours within the first weeks and months. This makes for eight to twelve feedings per twenty four hours.
In order to keep track of that and not worry about missing a feeding time, the Baby Feed Timer app, recommended by
NHS midwives, reminds you when you are due to feed next and on which side. It features an easy-to-use feeding timer, which is essential for those night feed times. You can log all the feeding information, including breastfeeds, bottles, sleep and nappies, to help you spot trends and synchronise your baby’s schedule. The Apple Watch allows you to quickly log everything to your device right there on the spot.
4. The Best Sleeping Aid App – White Noise Baby
White noise machines and apps can help a baby fall asleep faster and block outside noise to aid their daytime naps. Nevertheless, it’s important to ensure they are set at the right noise level (around 50 decibels) because exceeding the limit can be damaging to your infant’s hearing and auditory development.
An app that ensures a baby’s sound and peaceful sleep is White Noise Baby Lite, developed by TMSOFT. Alongside white noise, it features a range of ambient sounds to help your baby drift off to sleep, such as a car ride, a mother’s heartbeat, an air conditioner and even classical music tracks by Beethoven, Chopin and Mozart. You can play the sound for a set duration and the baby monitor can automatically restart the sounds once it detects that the baby is crying and repeat this as often as you want.
5. The Best App for Making Mum Friends – Peanut
Finally, for those mums who want to socialise with other parents or share advice with other women in the same boat, Peanut is the app for you.
Founded by Michelle Kennedy in 2017 when she had her first child, the app is designed to provide a safe space for women at all stages of womanhood to make a meaningful connection. The social networking app allows women to meet, join groups and find communities with similar interests, engage in interesting topics and even listen to inapp live podcasts hosted by experts.
With thanks to Nuby (uk.nuby.com) for this article.
Summer Camps
It’s Time for Summer Camps
By Ellie Malt
I once spent a freakishly hot week in the summer holidays learning to sail near the Isle of Wight. As a tween, I was dazzled by the teenage sailing instructors who seemed endlessly cool. I’m not saying my sailing skills were Olympian, but it felt like a modern version of Swallows and Amazons. The sense of freedom and adventure was amazing. My point? Any programme run with experience and enthusiasm can be more than just a childcare solution.
Holiday camps can be daunting and my children enjoy them more if they go with a friend. Jenny, a mother of a 7 and 9-year-old told me: ‘My kids weren’t interested in going at all, but three hours at a tennis camp turned out to be a good first step.’ Half-day camps are a great introduction to camp life.
It’s also important to think carefully before automatically sending siblings to the same camp. ‘Choose carefully!’ warned Maggie, who has two girls with very different interests. ‘I sent both of mine off to the same sports camp. At the end of the first day, one came home on top of the world, the other refused to go back.’
If it is your child’s first time at a summer camp, you can ease their worries by choosing something that really dovetails nicely with their hobbies and personality.
If you think a tech camp might hit the mark, try something with a more specialist focus on robotics, coding and
Budget-Friendly Options
If your child is under 11-years-old, you may qualify for a Tax-Free Childcare account (which you can set up on the Government Gateway website). The government contributes £2 for every £8 you put into the account. To spend the money on a summer camp you will need your unique reference number from your account.
Many camps still accept childcare vouchers. The schemes are closed to new applicants but are still valid if you joined on or before 4 October 2018.
The Summer Camps Trust (�� summercampstrust.org) charity aims to make residential summer camp as normal for UK children as it is for kids in the US. Offering access to kids from all backgrounds, their ‘Tryout camps’ offer reduced rates for first timers.
The Holiday Activity and Food programme (HAF) is a government-funded holiday camp programme offering free places to any child who is eligible for free school meals. Head to your local authority website and search for HAF. Note that each area has a different name for its HAF funded programmes.
inventions. For outdoorsy kids, summer is the perfect opportunity to immerse them in the most inspiring local scenery.
Do you live near a woodland? Forest Schools are ideal for nature loving kids, encouraging play alongside learning bushcraft skills, all in a natural setting. You can find your nearest by looking on the database of the Forest School Association which ensures site leaders have Forest School L3 qualifications or equivalent. Visit �� forestschoolassociation.org for details.
If you are heading to the coast for a holiday, or even a short break, and your child can swim and enjoys being in the water, a surf school is a good option to consider. Surfing England (�� surfingengland.org) has a list of more than fifty accredited surf schools and coaches. They’ve also created the Grom Squad programme for kids to learn about protecting the environment and sea safety.
Ellie is a mum of two daughters, living in Surrey.
Questions to Ask
Here are some important questions to ask when choosing a camp.
Is it Ofsted registered? If it runs for more than four hours in one day, Ofsted registration is compulsory.
What is the ratio of staff to children? For children ages 3 to 8, the camp should have a 1 to 8 ratio. For children ages 8+, a 1 to 10 ratio is recommended.
Ask if staff are enhanced DBS checked (‘Disclosure and Barring Service,’ formerly the ‘Criminal Records Bureau’ or CRB) and who is the designated safeguarding lead. If high-risk activities are included, double check the camp is accredited by the relevant association.
Check the instructors and staff have the relevant qualifications for the activities. Many camps employ teens who add a fun dimension but they should always be overseen by professionally qualified staff.
How does it handle medications and food allergies? What are the procedures if your child becomes ill or in an emergency? Will there always be a trained first aider on site?
Summer Holiday Camps & Workshops
Don’t forget to mention Families Chiltern magazine when you book.
EDUCATION
INSPIRE YOUNG TECHIES AT CODE NINJAS
Master the secrets of Redstone – Minecraft’s engineering marvel, Become a YouTuber, or perfect your Roblox Development skills with Summer Camps at Code Ninjas.
Camps running: Minecraft® Mastery: Redstone Realm 3 Day Camp; Become A YouTuber 3 Day Camp; Roblox Development 3 Day Camp. Where: Code Ninjas Dojos in High Wycombe and Aylesbury.
Dates: Various.
Cost: £60 per day. Ofsted registered – Tax Free
PERFORMING ARTS
ALLSTARS ACADEMY SUMMER SCHOOL
Musical theatre and dance with exciting guest teachers and industry professionals.
Where: The Misbourne School.
When: 12-15 Aug; 19-22 Aug.
To book: Call 07813 452737 or email: reception@allstarsacademy.biz < allstarsacademy.biz
MATCHBOX MUSICALS
A week-long summer school by PQA with rehearsals and performances of the best bits from Shrek, The Wizard of Oz and the Addams Family. Concludes with a performance on 24thAugust.
Ages: 4-18yrs (shorter days available for 4-5 yrs).
Where: The Grange School, Aylesbury.
When: Monday 19-Friday 23 August, 10am-4pm
GYMNASTICS
BOOKER GYMNASTICS CLUB
Childcare or Childcare Vouchers accepted. All hardware and software included.
To book: Select location at: < codeninjas.co.uk or call 01494 623125
11+ SUMMER SCHOOL
Highly recommended summer school to help children prepare for the 11+ exam. A team of highly trained professional teachers will provide an engaging environment with a mixture of mock examinations, tuition, teaching and revision sessions. Plus, 11+ Weekly Lessons: 2-hours of intensive
To book: Contact PQA for a booking form. Email: kym.eden-fry@pqacademy.com < pqacademy.com
SUPERHEROES SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES
This July and August, join Perform and zoom off with the Superheroes for an action-packed drama, dance and singing adventure. With singing, dancing, twirling and swooping, your child will discover and hone their own special powers of confidence, coordination, communication and concentration as they swoop towards a supercharged show for family and friends.
Where: St Michael’s Church Hall, Beaconsfield. When: Monday 22 – Friday 26 July. < perform.org.uk/superheroes
Summer Holiday Camps running 24th July- 3rd September on weekdays. Camps include gymnastic tuition on floor, vault, bars, beam, trampette, tumble and parallel bars in the morning followed by a hot lunch, (included in the cost) and then an afternoon packed with fun and games.
Ages: 4-10 yrs.
Where: Booker Gym Club, High Wycombe. When: 10am-3pm.
Cost: £40 for the day, £35 for additional siblings. For a 9am start, an extra £7 per child. < bookergymclub.co.uk
16 exciting sports in a week as well as big team games such as bench ball, battle zone and capture the flag. Ideal for girls & boys aged 4-16. Small group sizes, professional coaches, all equipment provided. Where: Dr Challoner’s High School, Little Chalfont. Ages: 4–16yrs.
When: 29th July– 2ndAugust.
Primary and Secondary (6-16yrs) 9am-4pm or Little Sporties (Ages 4 and 5) 9.30-12.30pm and/or 1-4pm.
To book: Call 07704 675554 or visit < multisports.co.uk
ULTIMATE ACTIVITY SUMMER CAMPS
Kids can enjoy a range of over 40 sports, games and
CREATIVE
SMART RASPBERRY COOKERY CAMPS
Are you looking for a fun and engaging activity for your kids this summer?
Smart Raspberry’s hands-on cookery camps are the perfect way to inspire and entertain young aspiring chefs! Ages: 5-10 and 10-15 years. When: 29th July – 23rd August. Where: Jordans Village Hall and The Beaconsfield School.
To Book: Call 08452 692665, or visit < smartraspberry.com
craft activities each week of the summer holidays, led by inspiring staff in superb facilities. Age suitably depends on location. Camps in High Wycombe, Beaconsfield, Gerrards Cross and Milton Keynes. See website for prices and booking. Where: Maltmans Green School, Davenies School, Godstowe School and Thorton College. Ages: 4-14yrs. < ultimateactivity.co.uk
THEY WON’T BE BORED WITH BUSY LIVING
There is plenty of fun in store at the Busy Living Playschemes. Build dens, learn new skills such as martial arts, dance and sports and make new friends. Where: St Joseph’s in Chalfont St Peter and Green Ridge School Aylesbury – open to children from other schools.
tuition classes that your child can dip in and out of, practising questions, looking at technique and helping each child to analyse their strengths and areas of focus.
Where: Total Tutoring, High Wycombe. When: 19 to 23 August (Summer School).
Plus flexible, weekly lessons.
Ages: Children going into Year 6 (ages 9-10.)
To book: Call Vicky Collins on 07391 966667 or email: Total.Tutoring.Plus@gmail.com < TotalTutoring.co.uk
TRING PARK SUMMER COURSES
A variety of dance, musical theatre, acting and music summer schools at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts for young people aged from 8-17 years. All courses are open to external applicants, offering day and residential options.
Ages: From 8-17 years.
Dates: Summer Acting Course (ages 10-16): 28 July to 1 August; Summer Dance Course (ages 8-16): 28 July to 1 August; Summer Musical Theatre Course (ages 1016) and Popular Music Summer Course (ages 14-17): 4 to 9 August; Summer Dance Course (ages 8-16): 11 to 15 August. Where: Tring Park School for the Performing Arts. < tringpark.com/holiday-courses
ACROBATIC WORKSHOP
Fun-filled Lion King themed workshop over two days for 5+yrs.
When: Thursday 29th – Friday 30th August. Where: Stoke Poges Village Centre. Cost: £70. < zigzagacrobaticacademy.com
MINI MONETS CREATIVE EXTRAVAGANZA Graffiti, action painting art, pottery, tie-dye. When: 19th, 20th,28th & 29th August, 10am-3pm. Where: Reading Room, High St, Chalfont St Giles. Ages: 5-15yrs. < minimonetsuk.com
When: Every day of the holidays from 8am-6pm (first 4 weeks of the summer holidays.)
Ages: 4-11yrs, (sibling discount is available).
To enquire: Call 01494 702 702 or email: info@busy-living.co.uk < busy-living.co.uk
WILD WEEK
Outdoor activities, games, cooking and craft – all with an environmental theme.
Ages: 7-11yrs.
Where: Iver Environment Centre, Iver.
When: Monday 29 July– Friday 2 August. There is also a Teen Wild Week for 11-16yrs on 6–8 August.
Cost: Tickets £185 for the week, £160 additional siblings. Daily 10am-4pm. Book online: < iverenvironmentcentre.org
Clubs, Classes & Activities
Are you looking for a new activity for your children to try? Or perhaps they have a keen interest in dance, sport or performing? Whatever their hobbies, we have a great choice of local clubs and classes to suit everyone.
When you call, please don’t forget to say you saw them in Families Chiltern magazine!
Weekend classes and Summer Workshops held at Dr Challoner’s High school.
18 sports a year and weekly team building. Ideal for ages 4 -16.
Book a two week trial today at: �� multisports.co.uk
Kids Swimming Lessons
Seriously FUN Swimming Schools offer children's swim classes in: Amersham Aylesbury, Gerrards Cross, Wycombe, Maidenhead and Slough. Only 6 per class, £58 per month and 50% off your initial payment with code: DISCOUNT50. Book your swim lessons online at: �� seriouslyfun.com
At TISKA Karate, children and adults alike learn the essentials of etiquette, respect, self discipline, self awareness, confidence, fitness, and self-defence.
Photograph of their youngest Black belt, 8 year old Tyler Yamamoto. Contact: office@tiska.com for further details of your 1 month free trial.
Perform
Weekly drama, dance and singing classes
Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination.
To book a FREE class visit: �� perform.org.uk/try
Total Tutoring
Quality tuition from professional teachers.
11+: English, maths, VR and NVR. Small group and bespoke 1:1 lessons. �� totaltutoring.co.uk
E: total.tutoring.plus@gmail.com ☎ 07391 966667 TOTAL TUTORING
Musical Theatre, Comedy and Drama classes. All taught by leading industry professionals. Several performance opportunities including performing in the West End in early 2025 and film and TV. Shorter classes for 4-5yrs. To book, call 07940 950952, email: Kym.eden-fry@pqacademy.com �� pqacademy.com
Acting classes with West End actors and TV professionals. Musical theatre and dance classes also on Saturdays. Act, dance and sing in separate classes for pre-school, infants, juniors and teens across all disciplines. Celebrating 100% pass rate in LAMDA and IDTA examinations year-on-year. ☎ 01494 876487 �� trapdoordrama.com
The Barr Academy
Musical Theatre classes from 3 - 18 years on Sundays in Stokenchurch led by a West End professional.
The classes aim to encourage and inspire all to become creative, imaginative and motivated in all aspects of performing arts and life.
Book your trial class today! ☎ 07583 942447 < TheBarrAcademy.co.uk E: info@thebarracademy.co.uk
Allstars Academy
Berkhamsted and Princes Risborough. Everything under one roof.
Perform weekly classes for 4-7s and 7-12s use a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out a child’s natural ability. Run by professional actors, the classes focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. They put child development at the heart of their classes which means they don’t worry about whether children get their lines or moves exactly right. All abilities are welcome!
The curriculum is packed with fun, using a mix of drama games, catchy songs and funky dances. From September, children aged 4-7 will be joining an adventure to Outer Space while 7-12 year olds will take part in an Ancient Greek dance extravaganza, The Hercules Beat!
Every child is welcome to try a no-obligation FREE class, visit: < perform.org.uk/try to find book.
Venues: Amersham, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Gerrards Cross, Tring and Wendover.
Ask the Expert
Calling All Parents!
Do you find it difficult to motivate your child when it comes to brushing their teeth? Our local expert may be able to help.
My name is Dr Mumtaz Awan and I am a General/ Cosmetic dentist and Partner at ‘Dental Excellence’ based in Chalfont St Giles. I have found that one of the main concerns that parents have is that their child does not want to brush their teeth. However, it is essential to establish good oral hygiene habits in children early on, as it is crucial for their overall health and well-being.
Good routine starts as soon as a child gets their first tooth. This may seem too young, however according to the guidelines set out by the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (BSPD); ‘All parents and guardians are advised to ensure that young children in their care are taken to see a dentist as soon as their first teeth come through, and before their first birthday.’
Over the years, I have seen a lot of children in our dental practice. They all have different personalities and developmental rates, so here are some practical tips and advice to help maintain your child’s oral hygiene:
Start early - Cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft, damp cloth before teeth emerge is important and starts to get them into a routine. Once teeth appear, use a small, softbristled toothbrush.
First dental visit - Schedule your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears.
Brushing - Ensure your child brushes their teeth at least twice a day, morning and night and teach them the proper technique: Brush all surfaces of teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces using circular motions and gentle pressure. Try and brush for 2 minutes.
Please do not get too stressed if your child does not brush for the recommended two minutes. It is all about getting them into a good routine and is a work in progress. They will get there eventually!
Preparation - Use a pea sized amount of fluoride toothpaste for children aged 3-6 and a flat smear amount for those under 3 years. Supervise brushing and encourage to spit out excess toothpaste and no rinsing. The residual toothpaste will give further protection against decay.
Healthy diet - Reduce the consumption of sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to tooth decay. Opt for healthier alternatives like fruits, vegetables, and cheese. Encourage drinking water instead of sugary beverages. Water helps
wash away food particles and bacteria as well as the fact that it is better for overall health.
Regular dental checkups - Schedule dental checkups every six to twelve months, (as advised by your dentist) to ensure your child’s teeth and gums are healthy. This is invaluable as any potential issues can be detected very early and resolved, not to mention it gets your child used to going to a dental surgery, which can be a daunting experience.
Make it fun! Try and use colourful/themed toothbrushes to make brushing enjoyable. Consider using apps or songs that time brushing for two minutes to make it more engaging.
Lead by example and educate both yourself and your child. Modelling good behaviour can work wonders! Brush and floss your teeth alongside your child to show the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.
Always praise and reward your child for good oral hygiene habits to encourage consistency but also explain to your child why good oral hygiene is important. Use ageappropriate language to explain how brushing and flossing keep their mouth healthy and prevent cavities.
Avoid certain habits - This is one of the main issues and a big determining factor in how your child’s teeth will develop. Dummies and thumb sucking are the main culprits. These habits can drastically alter the way teeth interdigitate and can affect the way their facial bones develop. Having said this, as a parent, I understand that sometimes it is unavoidable as children are all different. I would then advise that you try and stop the habit as soon as possible to reduce the potential dental abnormalities.
By establishing these habits early you can help your child develop a lifelong routine of good oral hygiene, ensuring healthy teeth and gums well into adulthood. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Statutory framework now states that early year’s providers must promote good oral health of children who attend their setting. This reinforces good oral hygiene at school as well as at home which ultimately helps to imbed the routine.
All children under 12 years old will get their first checkup with us for free and we can offer great personalised advice. Please book a consultation with us today, call Dental Excellence on: 01494 876128 or visit: dentalexcellence.co.uk
Meet Chris Miller from the Air Raid Shelter
Café and Tearoom
Everyone who has visited this unique café in High Wycombe will remember the first time they walked through its doors and were instantly transported back to the 1940’s.
It feels more like a film set or museum, than a café. While you relax with a cuppa, the kids can explore the various historic scenes and clamour behind the wheel of the classic car that takes pride of place. We met the inspiring man behind the café, Chris Miller, who recently launched a single to commemorate 80-years since the D-Day landings, to find out more.
Where did you get your inspiration to create the café?
I spent a lot of time growing up with my grandparents who both fought in WW2. I wanted to honour that special generation and hopefully create a fun, educational, quirky destination.
How did you collect the wartime memorabilia on display in the café? I started with one picture of a spitfire in January 2019 and, from there, I have become a bit of a hoarder. I love car boot sales and am always on eBay. One of my best finds were the model ships which look fantastic on the wall of the Navy section. As the café has grown, we have also been given some amazing donations, such as medals, ammunition boxes, hoovers...you name it.
What’s your favourite piece?
My favourite piece is probably Maude, our 1940 Morris SE. People love to sit in Maude and eat, and even enjoy breakfast inside her!
Is there a particular story that resonates amongst the many you have heard while running the café?
The many veterans that have visited have some amazing stories. Ken Hay
who is now 98 was captured on the Normandy beaches and marched 1,000 miles… this is just one of some amazing stories.
Please tell us about your new single, ‘Forever Dancing in Your Heart’ and the inspiration behind it?
We wanted to do something special for the 80th Anniversary of D-Day involving veterans and café regulars. We decided to write an original song and recorded it with 1940’s act, The Polka Dots. ‘Forever Dancing in Your Heart’ was inspired by all the wartime dances that took place. These were so important for moral. My grandparents met at a dance, I like to think of veterans still dancing somewhere watching over us. It’s been such a fun emotional time, filming the video with D-Day veterans and many filming days in the café!
As we mark 80 years since the D-Day landings, why is it so important that the new generation learn about this chapter of Britain’s history? It is so important for children to learn about the sacrifices of D-Day. We are never that far away from war and it is important to remember just how horrific it is. The sacrifices that were made for us all to live in peace and how lucky we are to have it
You recently relocated the café from The Chilterns Shopping Centre to a new venue in Frogmore. What’s it like and how can we find it?
We are now in a much larger venue, which even has space for private functions. We have singers every Saturday and Sunday and we have maps of the cafe with all the different areas, so it’s a really cheap day out
which is educational and fun. We do not have on-site parking, but there is disabled parking at the side of the cafe and the best car park is Dovecott Car Park, HP13 5FX.
What did you used to do? I used to be a semi-professional football manager and have managed over 400 matches.
What are your favourite local places? I love anywhere on the Thames with my dog Marie.
What are your plans for the future? In the future, I hope to grow the business. I’d like to open a gift shop, website and online shop.
Ken Hay
July
Friday 5 – Saturday 6 July
BUCKINGHAM BEER AND MUSIC FEST
Buckingham Rugby Club, Buckingham. Live bands, classic cars, kidzone. discoverbuckingham.uk
CHILFEST
Cow Lane, Tring. Weekend music festival with a variety of bands and tributes. chilfest.co.uk
Saturday 6 July
ALICE’S DAY
The Story Museum, Oxford. Family day with fabulous monsters and curious creatures. Half-priced entry. storymuseum.org.uk
ALTOGETHER AMERSHAM
King George V Park, Amersham. Live music, dance, mobile museum & fairground. 11am-5pm, free. visitamersham.org.uk
YOUTH CLUB
Green Street, High Wycombe. Young Deaf Activities Youth Club for children/young people with hearing impairment. Monthly during term time, 2-4pm. yda.org.uk
Sunday 7 July
AYLESBURY ON SEA Vale Park, Aylesbury. Vale Park has been transformed into the seaside! 11am-4pm, drop-in, FREE. aylesburytowncouncil.gov.uk
BUCKS MUSIC TRUST SUMMER FESTIVAL
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Performances from young musicians. 12.30-6.30pm. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
MUSIC IN THE PARK
Lowndes Park, Chesham. Live music in the park, drop-in and bring a picnic. FREE. Also on 14th, 21st, 28th July. Plus 4th, 11th and 18th August. visitchesham.org.uk
RIVERFEST
Emberton Park, Onley. River, raft and duck racing and food stalls. olneytowncouncil.gov.uk
WADDESDON VILLAGE FETE
Waddeson Cricket Field, Silk Street. 1-5pm, mini railway, Animal Antiks, stalls, crafts, inflatables and flypast by two spitfires. allevents.in/Aylesbury
Monday 8 July
TODDLER SAFARI
Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable. Mini adventures exploring the natural world. Free with zoo admission. Mondays, term time only. whipsnadezoo.org
TODDLER TAKEOVER
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. Special Pre-schooler session at the Model Village. Mondays, term time only. bekonscot.co.uk
Monday 8 July – 7 September
BLIPPI: THE WONDERFUL WORLD TOUR
Harold Printer Theatre, London. Blippi, live on stage with special guest Meekah. Strictly limited summer season, haroldpintertheatre.co.uk
Thursday 11 July
DISCOVER DUCKS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Pirate themed pre-school session. 10am-12pm. Also on 18th July. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Thursday 11 July – Sunday 14 July
MUSIC AT THE MANOR
Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon. A series of live outdoor concerts. 12+yrs, 6pm. Pre-book online: waddesdon.org.uk
Friday 12 July
TITCHY TODDLERS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. 6mths-4yrs. £5 child, adults free. Book online: roalddahlmuseum.org
Penn Meadow Farm, Penn. Yoga (kids and adults), glamping, meditation, crafts, under 12s free. ohshalafestival.com
Saturday 13 July
EDEN’S BIG DAY OUT
Eden Shopping Centre, High Wycombe. The ultimate one day family event with Bluey, Chase and Hey Duggee. Character appearances at intervals throughout the day. Plus a family disco and interactive prebookable workshops. 11am-3pm. More at: edenshopping.co.uk
FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Delve into archeological history and crafts. 11am-3pm, free with Museum entry. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Saturday 13 July (Cont’)
HATS OFF CHESHAM
Chesham, High Street. Fun family activities, don’t forget your hat! Drop-in, noon-6pm. visitchesham.org.uk
NATURE CHAMPIONS
Amersham Field Centre, Mop End. Eco adventures and mini-beast hunts. 5-11yrs. Pre-book: field-studies-council.org
YOUTH GOT TALENT
Wycombe Wanderers FC. 11am-3pm, drop-in. happeningnext.com
Saturday 13 – Sunday 14 July
DAY OUT WITH THOMAS
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. 10.30am-5pm, pre-booking required online: bucksrailcentre.org
HENLEY SWIM FESTIVAL
Temple Island Meadows, Henley-on-Thames. allevents.in/henley-on-thames
TODDLER TAKEOVER
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. Toys and crafts for preschoolers. Mondays, term time only. bekonscot.co.uk
Friday 19 July
PRE-SCHOOLER MORNINGS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury.
Daily Summer Fun
Daily in the Summer Holidays
TREETOP ADVENTURES
Go Ape, Wendover Woods. Experience a new level of excitement. With zip wires, high rope crossings and treetop thrills. goape.co.uk
SUMMER AT WHIPSNADE
Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable. Discover over 10,000 animals and the new Monkey Forest exhibit, plus expert animal talks and big outdoor play area! whipsnadezoo.org
Saturday 20 July – 3 November
MAY THE TOYS BE WITH YOU
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. A must for Star Wars fans, with vintage toys & cinema posters. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Saturday 20 July – 1 September
JAMES & THE GIANT PEACH STORYTELLING
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Enjoy storytelling in the wonderous woods. Free with admission fee. roalddahlmuseum.org
Tuesday 23 July– 22 August
GREG CHAPMAN’S MINIATURE TOUR
Bekonscot Model Village, Beaconsfield. Summer fun at the model village with a close
By Claire Lockie-Williams
Wednesday 24 July– 3 September
SUMMER SIZZLER
Odds Farm Park, near Beaconsfield. Six week long Summer celebration with farmyard fun, water play and tractor rides. Summer sizzler ticket passes are also available. oddsfarm.co.uk
Wednesday 24 July – 29 August
SUMMER OF PLAY
Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon Garden games and fun family activities. 10am-4pm. Kids get FREE admission to house, games and grounds until 26th August. waddesdon.org.uk
Wednesday 24 July – 1 September
SUMMER STEAMING
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. Kids can enjoy unlimited steam train rides and entry to the Railway museum, visitor centre and cafe on most Wednesdays and Sundays, (minus event days) for £1. See website: bucksrailcentre.org
GO FOR GOLD
Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. Embark on an epic quest to win a gold medal. 10am-4pm. 27th July includes medal crafting.
Cassiobury Park, Watford and Gadebridge Park, Hemel Hempstead. Paddling pools open from 7th July. FREE. Booking essential. everyoneactive.com
Saturday 20 July
CHILTERNS CHAIRS FESTIVAL
Wycombe Library, High Wycombe. Storytime and crafts session celebrating the Chiltern Chairs Festival. 11am-12pm. FREE event. Tickets required, pre-book online: wycombemuseum.org.uk
DAVID GIBBS FAMILY JUKEBOX
The Story Museum, Oxford. 11am. 2+yrs. Tickets £9. Pre-booking required: storymuseum.org.uk
LEE FLOWER SHOW
Lee Common, Buckinghamshire. Crafts, activities and shows, concluded with the traditional Lee Flower Show Dance. 1.45-11pm. FREE entry, see website for dance ticket prices. thelee.org.uk
PARENT SUPPORT GROUP
Princes Risborough Methodist Church, Support group for pre-school parents. Monthly term time. 10.30am-1.30pm, £4. yda.org.uk
SKETCH AND SCRIBBLE
Tring Natural History Museum, Tring. Family art fun. 2.30-3.30pm. Booking required. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Saturday 20 July-Sunday 21 July
CLASSIC VEHICLES SHOW
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. 10am-5pm. Under 4yrs free. Full details and booking: coam.org.uk
Wednesday 24 July - 29 August
WALTERS CABINET OF CURIOSITIES
Tring Natural History Museum, Tring. Handling and craft workshop. Tuesday’s and Wednesdays only. FREE. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Thursday 25-Friday 26 July
BUGS AND CRITTERS AND JUNGLE JUNIORS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Get up close to and learn about amphibians, bugs and critters. Time slot workshops. £4pp with Museum entry. Pre-booking advised. roalddahlmuseum.org
Thursday 25 July
SUMMER FAMILY NATURE DAY
Amersham Field Centre, Mop End. A great day exploring the outdoors and producing nature crafts. Pre-book online: field-studies-council.org
Thursday 25 –Sunday 28 July
THE 13 STOREY TREEHOUSE
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street. Based on the bestselling book. 6-12yrs. 1pm and 5pm showings. atgtickets.com
Friday 26 July – Saturday 27 July
ARBOR & BUZZ- SMOKING APPLES THEATRE Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon. Visually stunning shows with lots of puppets. waddesdon.org.uk
Saturday 27 July
BUCKS OPEN CULTURE WEEKEND
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Help create a colourful diverse giant patchwork quilt. Free with museum entry, discoverbucksmuseum.org
COMIC CLUB
The Story Museum, Oxford. Develop your comic making skills. Comic artist, Neill Cameron, will be on hand for tips. 8-11yrs: 11am-12.30pm and 12+yrs at 1.30-3pm. £12pp. Booking required: storymuseum.org.uk
Steaming Days at Bucks Rail Centre
Saturday 27 – Sunday 28 July
HERITAGE CRAFTS WEEKEND
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Embrace, explore and try your hand at traditional crafts. 10am-5pm. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Sunday 28 July
ALICE IN WONDERLAND SPECTACULAR
Kew Little Pigs, Amersham. Mad Hatters tea party with bouncy castle. £15pp.kewlittlepigs.com
Monday 29 July – Saturday 31 August
SUMMER AT BLETCHLEY PARK
Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes. Code breaking and puzzles. bletchleypark.org.uk
Tuesday 30 July
TERRIFIC TUESDAY
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Activities, crafts and clay modelling. 11am5pm. Also on 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th August. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk/events
Wednesday 31 July
JAMES’ SQUIFFLING SCIENCE
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Hands on Science experiments. Multiple time slots. 5yrs+. £4pp with Museum entry. Also 1st and 2nd August. roalddahlmuseum.org
Terrific Tuesdays at Chiltern Open Air Museum
OUT OF THIS WORLD WEDNESDAYS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Space inspired crafting. Also 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th August. discoverbucksmuseum.org
August
Friday 2 – Sunday August
URBAN CANVAS STREET ART
Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon.
Have a go at a mixture of traditional and newly invented games for the whole family. Kids get FREE admission until 26th August. waddesdon.org.uk
Saturday 3 August and 17 August
LEGO MASTERS BUILDERS CLUB
The Story Museum, Oxford. Unleash your imagination. 5+yrs. Also on 17th August. storymuseum.org.uk
Saturday 3 – Sunday 4 August
CLASH OF THE QUEENS
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Reimagined encounters between Queen Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots. 10am-6pm. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Monday 5 August
SEND EXPLORE YOUR WAY DAYS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Sensory storytelling and an option to explore the museum. Relaxed quiet day, also on 19th August (loud day). See website: roalddahlmuseum.org
Monday 5 – Friday 9 August
ECO ADVENTURES AND ECO EXPLORERS
Amersham Field Centre, Mop End. Survive a shipwreck & the Stone Age. Eco Adventurers 5-8yrs ; Explorers 8-11yrs. Pre-book: field-studies-council.org
STORY ADVENTURERS: STORY OLYMPICS
The Story Museum, Oxford. Summer skills courses featuring stories celebrating sports without any sporting! 10am-4pm, 8-12yrs. storymuseum.org.uk
Tuesday 6 August
NATURE EXPLORERS DAY
College Lake Nature Reserve, nr Tring. Wildlife themed activity camp. 7-12yrs. Also 13th,22nd and 29th Aug. Pre-book: bbowt.org.uk
Kids go FREE Kids go FREE
25th August
Tuesday 6 –Wednesday 7 August
PIZZA AND POND DIPPING
Iver Environment Centre, Iver. Pond dipping activities with bonus pitta pizzas. 3-11yrs. 5-7.30pm, booking required. iverenvironmentcentre.org
Tuesday 6 – Friday 9 August
PEACHY CLAY POTS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Clay paint pot decorating. 5yrs+. £4pp with Museum entry. roalddahlmuseum.org
Thursday 8 August
A MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon. Magical mayhem with Puck and his friends. Pre-booking advised, waddesdon.org.uk
Friday 9 August
FANTASTIC FRIDAYS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Craft, science and creative writing. Also 9th, 16th, 23rd 30th August. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Friday 9 – Sunday 11 August
THE ACTUAL REALITY ARCADE Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon. Life-sized interactive game zone for all ages to enjoy, inspired by twelve classic arcade games. Kids get free admission. waddesdon.org.uk
Saturday 10 August
PRINCESS CONCERT
Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. A world of enchantment. Pre-book online: elgiva.com
Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 August
BRITAIN AT WAR
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Discover how War time life really was with multiple reenactments. 10am-5pm. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Sunday 11 August
CLASSICS ON THE COMMON
Ley Hill, Buckinghamshire. Classic cars, cream teas and BBQs. latimerleyhillparishcouncil.co.uk
EMERGENCY SERVICES DAY
Bucks Railway Centre, Quainton. Emergency service vehicles, unlimited steam train rides. Pre-booking required, emergency service personnel go FREE. bucksrailcentre.org
Tuesday 12 – Friday 16 August
STORY EXPLORERS; HERE BE DRAGONS
The Story Museum, Oxford. Summer skills courses featuring the world of Dragons, including fun creative workshops for ages 8-12. Pre-book tickets online: storymuseum.org.uk
Tuesday 13 August
FAMILY FUN DAYS
Iver Environment Centre, Iver. Nature based family fun activities, each week with a different theme. 10am12.30pm or 1.30-4pm. Also 15th, 19th, 20th, 29th or 30th August. iverenvironmentcentre.org
A DRAGON’S TALE
The Story Museum, Oxford. Based on the legend of the Lambton worm. 2pm. 4+yrs. Tickets £10. storymuseum.org.uk
Wednesday 14 August
ROALD DAHL’S TABLE OF TREASURES
Tring Natural History Museum, Tring. Views some of Roald Dahl’s treasured items. 10.30am-12pm & 1.30-3pm, drop-in, FREE. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Saturday 17 – Sunday 18 August
VICTORIAN WEEKEND
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Learn about the less savoury aspects of Victorian Life. 10am-5pm. Under 4yrs free. Full details and booking online: coam.org.uk
Monday 19 – Friday 23 August
SUMMER AT BLACK PARK
Black Park, Stoke Poges. Forest school, outdoor theatre, summer trail. countryparks.buckinghamshire.gov.uk
Tuesday 20 – Thursday 22 August
CLAY CREEPY CRAWLIES
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Be inspired by James’ friends to make clay models. 5yrs+. £4pp with Museum entry. Multiple time slots. See website, roalddahlmuseum.org
Thursday 22 August
THE TALE OF JEMIMA PUDDLEDUCK Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon. Quantum Theatre adaption of the much loved classic. 5.30pm. waddesdon.org.uk
WALTER’S CABINET OF CURIOUSITIES
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Explore NHM specimens. Multiple time slots. 5yrs+. £4pp with Museum entry. Pre-book, roalddahlmuseum.org
Friday 23 August
PRIDE IN THE PARK Vale Park, Aylesbury. Inclusive event kicking off the Parklife weekend. 5-9.30pm. FREE event. aylesburytowncouncil.gov.uk
Friday 23 – Monday 26 August
BERKSHIRE BIRDS OF PREY Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon. Get up close and personal with birds of prey! Until 26 August, children get free admission to the house and grounds. waddesdon.org.uk
TOWERSEY FESTIVAL Claydon Estate, Buckingham. towerseyfestival.com
Saturday 24 August
HENLEY SUMMER FEST
Henley Showground, Henley. Noon-10.30pm. See website, allevents.in/henley-on-thames
LIVE IN THE PARK Vale Park, Aylesbury.
Community fun day including ‘Battle of the Bands’ and kids zone. FREE event. aylesburytowncouncil.gov.uk
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Music, games and storytelling from the Viking age. 10am-5pm. Under 4yrs free. coam.org.uk
Monday 26 August
HAWRIDGE & CHOLESBURY VILLAGE FETE Hawridge and Cholesbury Village fete with raffle, stalls, vintage cars and food. visit: chesham.org.uk
PRE-1988 CLASSIC VEHICLE RALLY
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton. Classic cars rally, unlimited steam train rides. Registration for classic car entry is a necessity. Book online: bucksrailcentre.org
Tuesday 27 August
JUMBLY JUNK INSECT HOMES
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. 5yrs+. £4pp with Museum entry. roalddahlmuseum.org
Friday 30 August – Sunday 1 September
CHILLI FEST
Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon. Turn up the heat at the annual Chilli festival. waddesdon.org.uk
Thursday 19 – Sunday 22 September
AWFUL AUNTIE
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street.. David Walliams ‘Awful Auntie’ live on stage. Book online: atgtickets.com/aylesbury
