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November/December issue competition winners: Congratulations to Nathalie Lowies -Lofty who won a Family Ticket to Aladdin at Wycombe Swan, Hayley Brazier who won a Family Ticket to Peter Pan and Sarah Smith-Wightman who won a Christmas Photoshoot with Rebecca Fitch Photography.
The paper used in this magazine is made of material from well-managed, FSC® certified forests and other controlled sources.
Australia to ban social media use for under 16’s
In a landmark decision, Australia will soon enforce the world’s strictest social media regulations by banning children under 16 from using social media platforms. The legislation, approved by the Australian parliament in November, aims to safeguard young people from the potential harms of digital platforms. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese championed the initiative, citing growing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health, privacy and well-being. He said: “This legislation is about putting our kids first. We cannot ignore the risks posed by these platforms.”
Parent groups and child advocacy organisations have widely supported the move. It could pave the way for similar measures worldwide as countries grapple with the complex role of social media in children’s lives.
Take part in The Big Garden Birdwatch
Get your family involved in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch and help monitor bird life in the UK. With 1 in 4 birds in serious decline, it’s never been more important to monitor the UK’s bird populations.
It’s the world’s largest garden wildlife survey and over the past 45 years, volunteers from across the UK have helped the RSPB by tracking the birds living in their gardens and local green spaces. Simply count the birds you see in your garden, from your balcony or in your local park for one hour between 24th and 26th January.
Challenge your children to see who can spot the most birds. Take a bike ride to a local park or make a day trip out of it and spot birds in a new place.
To learn how to take part how to spot garden birds with a handy free birdwatch guide, visit: �� rspb.org.uk/birdwatch
Ignite creativity at ColourZone Art Club
Calling all young artists! ColourZone Art Club offers exciting after-school and holiday sessions across South Buckinghamshire, sparking creativity through drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts, and more. Kids will also explore famous artists and their techniques while developing technical skills through group and individual projects. Sewing classes are also available for aspiring creators alongside the Art Club at Cedar Barn in Hazlemere. Let your child’s imagination soar in these fun-filled, skillbuilding sessions – all materials included! Book a trial today, scan the QR code below or visit: �� colourzoneartclubs.uk
Guiding parents through the social media maze
Navigating the digital world just got easier for parents, thanks to Social Stars Club—a groundbreaking online program by Lydia A Entertainment. Launched by Lydia Alty at just 19, the program equips families with tools, training and resources to create safer online spaces. Lydia explains: “I wanted to create a program to help parents feel confident about social media and make the internet a safer space.” Running Saturdays from 10am-3pm, the 4-week program offers tailored 1-hour sessions based on age groups.
Empower yourself to tackle the challenges of the online world—sign up today! Find booking details on page 8.
Lovely to meet ewes & lambs in half term
Visitors to Odds Farm Park this February half term can look forward to the pitter patter of tiny hooves as the farm’s annual lambing event, Love and Lambs, gets underway. The livestock team is expecting more than 50 new arrivals over the nine-day event. Louise Winslow, assistant general manager at Odds Farm Park, says: “It’s a busy time of year for us on the farm as ewes and lambs often need round-the-clock attention. We have 25 expectant ewes in our maternity unit which is open for all our guests to visit. “Once the lambs are born, they are transferred with mum to our Little Hooves Nursery for visitors to see.
Lambs can arrive at anytime so lucky guests should be able to see one or two being born and taking their first steps into the world.” Louise adds: “Along with lambs, we have a host of love and lamb-themed arts and crafts activities, as well as live entertainment everyday of the half term holiday.” �� oddsfarm.co.uk
Roll out of free breakfast clubs in April 2025
The Chancellor has announced that up to 750 state-funded primary schools will start offering free breakfast clubs from April 2025.
This initiative will run during the summer term (AprilJuly 2025) as a pilot phase to prepare for a national rollout. The Department for Education will work with the schools selected as part of the pilot to understand how breakfast clubs can be delivered to meet the needs of schools, parents and pupils when the programme is rolled out nationally.
World Book Day 2025
Put Thursday 6th March in your diary for World Book Day 2025 and start planning your child’s costume.
Marked in over 100 countries, children and schools get involved by dressing up as their favourite book characters and reading together to celebrate authors, illustrators and reading.
Each year World Book Day releases a brand-new line-up of £1 books and issues tokens that children will be use to choose one of the books for free.
The Government claims breakfast clubs will help reduce the number of students starting the school day hungry and ensure children come to school ready to learn. It will also support the government’s aim to tackle child poverty by addressing rising food insecurity among children. �� gov.uk/ government/ news
This year’s line-up of books includes short stories from firm family favourites Bluey and Paddington Bear for beginning and early reading abilities, as well as a searchand-find story from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, and a selection of poems for every occasion from the 2022-2024 Children’s Laureate Joesph Coelho.
For more fluent and independent readers, Benjamin Dean captivates young adults with a standalone thriller, while Tom Palmer scores with The Soccer Diaries: Rocky Takes the Lead. More info: �� worldbookday.com
Giving children and young people the Creative Courage to stand up on stage for over 35 years.
AMERSHAM 07887 500788 stagecoach.co.uk/amersham HIGH WYCOMBE 01494533202 stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe
AYLESBURY 01525 790795
stagecoach.co.uk/aylesbury
HENLEY AND MARLOW 07539 753718
stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow
Days Out R ev i e w s
Mr Mulligans
On a friend’s recommendation, we spent a rainy afternoon at Mr Mulligans having a lush family time. The centre itself was bright and energising, boasting multiple activities for people of all ages. We tried our hands at the crazy golf and Virtual Reality (VR) which our friends had enjoyed.
The crazy golf was very crazy, with a variety of different ‘holes’ from Hotwheels (choose the tunnel track you start at), to Lego (the kids were fascinated if the blocks connected and broke apart like the real thing) and the extremely tricky pinball machine (which I was first to clear!). It was such a fun mini golf game, even if the adults were more competitive then kids!
We then tried the VR and watched the kids ‘fight’ each other, whilst they attempted to be chefs and make pizza. Then we each swapped with my youngest, who found it a bit overwhelming, and both of us played an arrow shooting/troll slaying game with our eldest. It was a very disorientating feeling at first as you almost think you’ll fall if your character does, but absolutely awesome fun with the competitiveness returning and thrilling fights against baddies galore! We managed to give the arcades and darts a swerve, though they looked like great fun. We couldn’t avoid the big slushies with the kids loving a ‘grown up’ drink.
I would highly recommend, and though the kids keep asking to return our next trip here will be an adult one to enjoy the zombie games.
Sat Nav: Jarmen Park, Hemel Hempstead. HP2 4JW. Note: Book in advance to avoid disappointment, plenty of parking (check times).
Pets at Home
By Claire Lockie Williams
We had a wonderful experience with a free animal session at Pets At Home in High Wycombe.
It was such a lovely experience for all of us, but especially the kids who got lots of cuddling, stroking and feeding time with a range of different pets. We were there for 1.5 hours, with guinea pig cuddling kicking off the experience. We were treated to lots of information about the guineas themselves, before moving on to rabbit and hamsters with tips on how to take care of them for the kids who had those pets.
There was a lot of fabulous interaction with the facilitators who answered all the kids excited questions, especially when the less cuddly pets came into play. They got up close to some exotic animals- spiders, geckos and snakes too. My boys loved the chance to hold the little snakes and let them loop around their hands, admiring the different colours of them. The Leopard Gecko was a great hit too, with all the kids eager to take a turn. All of them were taking care to be gentle and not too excitable to scare any of the animals, which was lovely to see. It was a fabulous experience and we hope to repeat it soon.
Note: Sign up to Pets At Home (petsathome.com) for updates on sessions run locally over school holidays and book in advance to avoid disappointment. These sessions were free, so keep an eye out as they book up quickly. Sat Nav: High Wycombe, HP11 1FY.
Great Missenden Park
We rounded off a day of fun in Great Missenden with a double park play in two of their village parks. The larger one was great fun for both kids with climbing frames to challenge them, sadly the zip wire was out of action at the time but there was plenty to enjoy there asides and it was hard to get them to leave.
My eldest favoured following the course of wooden climbing challenges, whilst my youngest spent a good half an hour exploring the ‘wiggle wiggle’ (as we coined it since it sways) play frame and slide. There was also a good swinging session with both begging for pushes. The park was nicely enclosed with places to sit and watch the children, or have a play yourself!
Around the corner from the main park was a lovely toddler park. There were swings for older children there, which my eldest jumped on, and a couple of younger kids play frames which they both hung off testing out their acrobatic skills. It was also super shady in the toddler park and it was such a hot day that we enjoyed an ice cream under a weeping willow.
Note: Check the machines, at the time we went it was 1 hour free parking on the road or in the car park (you must still get a ticket). Pay by machine or Ring Go app after.
Sat Nav: Great Missenden, HP16 0AL.
J u n i o r R e p o r t e r s Our Favourite Walks
Rushmere Country Park
By Lilly Grice
I am riding a giant beetle through the dense forest at Rushmere Park. It is a wooden sculpture, of course. We are following the sculpture trail which is one mile long.
Rushmere Park is 400 acres of woodland, heathland and meadows near Leighton Buzzard. On the sculpture trail there are statues of a woodpecker, a lizard and my beetle.
I wandered through a meadow to a sundial which was very different from normal ones. It was made out of sandstone from a local quarry. The sundial was made up of loads of rocks in a semicircle and an oblong shape in the middle of them, on the ground. The oblong had all the months carved onto it, so whatever month it is, you stand on the appropriate area and count the rocks to where your shadow falls. It only differs from clock time by 15 minutes.
From the sundial, I explored surrounding woodlands. At the top of a steep slope, there was a giant wooden chair. I had a photo on it!
The park has a lake. It was quite murky but there were numerous ducks, dipping in and out of the water. The lake was once used for bathing, boating and fishing.
At one edge of the park there is Shire Oak Heath. It is a place of special scientific interest. Park rangers have cut down trees to allow bright light in to let the heather grow. When you visit you can look out for slow worms, toads, buzzards and ravens. I spotted some robins and crows!
There is a visitor centre and cafe but we had a picnic on a bench by the lake with the pesky ducks!
Location: Leighton Buzzard, LU7 0EB
Hogback Wood
By Maya Bordia
One Autumn day, my family and I went out on a woodland walk to Hogback Wood, in the centre of Beaconsfield. One of the reasons why I like the wood is because it has a fun rope swing hanging from a tree, which my sister and I like to play on.
As we were walking around, I noticed the canopy of trees sheltering us from the drizzle and a few dogs scavenging for interesting items. It was quite muddy, but luckily we were wearing our boots and the sunset-coloured leaves helpfully provided a covering on the ground.
Try a free confidenceboosting class this spring
Perform is not like other children’s drama schools. Its classes have a special emphasis on child development, using a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s potential. Classes focus on developing the 4 Cs - confidence, communication, coordination, and concentration – using drama-based games and activities which are specifically designed to combine learning with fun.
This term, Perform 4-7s are embarking on a sparkling underwater adventure Under the Sea whilst 7-12s work on a thrilling adaptation of a classic fairytale, in Bluebeard’s Bride. Imaginations will soar as children work towards a magical performance for family and friends. All abilities are welcome at classes for 4-7 and 7-12 year olds - just come ready to have the best fun of the week!
To book a free trial class visit �� perform.org.uk/try
As we ventured through the wood, I saw a number of den-like shelters made out of branches, perhaps by children. After a while, we came to a field which had a few horses in it, followed by a small farm. I would recommend this walk for anyone who likes exploring woodlands.
Location: Hogback Wood is accessible at the end of Woodside Road in Beaconsfield.
Book Club
The Aliens Love Underpants series has always been a firm favourite with pre-schoolers, so here at Families we were very excited to hear that after eight years, there is a new underpants story! Rachel Bailey talks to author Claire Freedman about her new book Dragons Love Underpants and meeting McGrammar.
Is it fair to say you didn’t plan your writing career? What advice would you give to parents/children who don’t grow up with a clear idea of what they want to do once they leave school?
You are absolutely right! I didn’t plan a career in writing at all. It happened entirely by accident after I joined an evening writing class about 30 years ago. I’d always loved writing and reading, and our teacher was so enthusiastic about writing, for children in particular, I was immediately hooked. I knew this was what I really wanted to do. I haven’t looked back since.
Personally, I didn’t have a very clear idea of what I wanted to do after I left school. I had a number of different jobs over the years, which, looking back on, I can see weren’t creative enough for me, even though I enjoyed them. I do think that there is a lot of pressure on young people to decide on their career so early on in life. It’s wonderful if you know exactly what you want to do, but I think just getting out and working can also help you decide what you like and don’t like about a job. It’s all good experience, and who knows what exciting opportunities might present themselves?
It has also made me appreciate just how fortunate I am to have discovered what suits me and gives me the greatest job and personal satisfaction.
I hear McGrammar is doing a rap read – have you met him? How important do you think it is to keep looking for different ways to encourage children as readers?
I’ve not met McGrammar but would like to. His presentation of books in rap is such a great way to attract young readers to enjoy books, especially when they might consider reading a chore. Picture books should be fun, engaging and meaningful for children. Trends seem to change more quickly than ever, and if that means thinking outside the box to encourage reading, well that has to be a good thing. It would be sad for any child to miss out on the joy of reading because it appears boring. Picture books are so essential for new and reluctant readers – the pictures truly tell the story- and even if the child struggles with some of the words, the illustrations help the story along and make the reading experience more fun and accessible. Presentation is so important and fortunately there are always new, exciting ways to champion the love of reading.
You write the books and Ben Cort illustrates them. What’s your working relationship like? Do you ever bounce ideas off each other?
We have a really good working relationship – which is important as we have spent a lot of time together over the years, visiting festivals, book signings and events, etc. However, we don’t generally contribute much to each other’s work. I write and Ben illustrates, although of course we might comment on each other’s work and maybe make suggestions. I think that works well for both of us.
Do you have a favourite underpants book or other book you have written? As fantastic as the underpants books are, they are just a small part of your portfolio! Are you surprised by how popular they have become?
My favourite underpants book, hands down, is the first one in the seriesAliens Love Underpants! I was totally amazed by its success. I initially wrote the book as a one off, but I’ve been surprised that eight books later, the series is still going strong. I’m really excited about Dragons Love Underpants, and hope it is just as successful.
Aside from underpants books, I’ve had around 100 other picture books published. Everything from laughout-loud humour to soft and sleepy bedtime stories. My all time favourite would be Oliver and Patch, a story about a lonely little boy who’s moved to the city, and how he finds a little dog called Patch – just as lost as him – and a new friend. It’s beautifully illustrated by Kate Hindley.
Would you ever consider writing books for older children, or do you love the freedom to create the zanier characters that perhaps writing picture books offers?
I have considered writing for older children and wouldn’t rule it out, but I feel picture books suit my style of writing and I enjoy crafting them so much. Never say never!
Indoor or outdoors? Summer or winter?
Outdoors, is there an option for spring please?!
Independent Day School for girls aged
Happy Hearts, Curious Minds
Nurturing Strong, Confident Learners in KS1 and 2
By Vicky Collins
Last summer, I found myself in the unique position of having one child finishing their school career and another starting pre-school. As a teacher and tutormum, this was a time for reflection on what has worked well and what to avoid in the future.
Start early (without them knowing)
Play is an invaluable way for children to develop essential skills without even realising it. Imaginative play, like storytelling or pretend shopping and cooking, helps build language, creativity, and early math abilities. Parents can weave learning into play by asking simple questions, such as “How many apples do we need?” or by turning shopping into a fun estimating challenge. Beyond play, exposing children to new experiences enriches their understanding of the world: a visit to a historic site or noticing dew on a cobweb can lead to questions about nature and inspire poetry.
Curiosity (and the drive to act on it)
My children have always been eager to learn, and I share that love for trying new things. One day, inspired by a Bear Grylls episode, I set up a fun challenge for my Year 5 class: turning muddy water into drinkable water (no, we didn’t actually drink it). It led to incredible problem-solving, creative thinking, and teamwork. David Attenborough has spoken about how his father encouraged him to seek answers, a practice that builds confidence and curiosity. Nurturing these habits early sparks a love for learning that serves children well throughout their education and beyond.
Growth mindset
Each morning while waving at the school gates, I’d tell my kids to “work hard”—a piece of advice from my aunt, who said research showed this was more effective than telling
them to “be good.” Today, we call this a growth mindset. Emphasising effort and resilience over innate ability helps children learn to embrace mistakes. They discover that failing isn’t the end, but an opportunity to reflect and try again. That boost of encouragement can keep them moving forward, even on tough days.
Problem solving
Problem-solving isn’t just for school; it’s a life skill. Kids are naturally resourceful, so sometimes the best way to help is to let them think and try. My class’s muddy water challenge was all about this—figuring things out, failing, then persevering. When mistakes happen, don’t fix them; ask, “How do you think you’ll solve this?” And “What do you think we should do next?” Activities that involve decisionmaking, like cooking together and letting them choose ingredients or planning family outings, also build these skills.
Communication and organisation
Strong communication and organisational skills are built over time. After school, kids can be tight-lipped, so family walks or games can be good times for conversations. Active listening is essential; it’s when the real issues come out, like a friend’s argument that ruined their day. As kids grow, support them to create routines and organisation structures that work for them, like checklists and reminders. It’s about finding a balance: enough space to take responsibility, but enough guidance to succeed.
milestones in KS1 and KS2: Building blocks of confidence
Year 1: This is a big step as children move from a play-based Early Years curriculum to the more structured National Curriculum. There’s more sitting down and formal learning, with a focus on phonics, writing, and early maths. The phonics check in June marks a key milestone. Support your child by establishing consistent reading habits and playing simple number games to build number bond fluency.
Year 2: Independence blossoms, and many children begin to read more confidently. By the end of the year, they should grasp the basics of times tables (2, 5, and 10). SATs in May are a focus in state schools, so encourage times tables practice and enrich their vocabulary by reading together.
Year 3: The transition to Key Stage 2 brings higher expectations and more complex learning. Times table fluency (including 3, 4, and 8) becomes essential. This is a good year to address any academic gaps. If you’re considering grammar school options, now is the time to explore free parent information events to help you plan.
Year 4: Children develop greater curiosity and independence in their thinking. The Times Tables Check in June highlights the importance of mastering all tables. Encourage their reading with classic children’s novels to expand vocabulary and comprehension. Although it feels early in Key Stage 2, now is a great time to explore secondary school options. Attending open days allows plenty of time to choose a school where your child will feel confident and thrive. If you’re considering tutoring, book early to secure a spot, as popular tutors often have waiting lists.
Year 5: A year of substantial academic and personal growth, Year 5 is a pivotal time for building strong English and maths skills. For families preparing for grammar school exams, this year often includes structured preparation, with a focus on balancing work and downtime. A clear study timetable and light work over summer will help maintain momentum. Revisit school open days to reinforce motivation and clarify goals for your child, helping them understand what they’re working toward.
Year 6: With 11+ exams in early September followed shortly by their results and SATs in May, this year is academically intensive for your child. Private schools entrance exams are often slightly after this but are generally concluded by the end of January. Once SATs are over, the focus shifts to transition and leavers’ activities. Support your child’s growing independence by encouraging confidence in managing responsibilities and independent activities.
Tips for parents: simple strategies to nurture confidence
• Welcome questions: Create a safe environment wherecuriosity is encouraged and celebrated.
• Make learning fun: Use games, puzzles, or playful challenges to teach concepts like maths, reading, or problem-solving.
• Model curiosity: Share your own questions and thought processes to show that learning is a lifelong journey.
• Encourage independence: Let children take ownership of small tasks, like packing their school bag or helping with a recipe.
• Celebrate effort: Focus on praising their hard work and resilience rather than just outcomes.
• Turn mistakes into lessons: Frame errors as opportunities to grow by asking, “What could we try differently next time?”
The journey of learning is an adventure for both parents and children. By fostering curiosity, building confidence, and embracing challenges together, we can help children develop into resilient, lifelong learners. As Maria Montessori said, “The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence.” Celebrate each milestone with joy, knowing you are building the foundation for their future success.
Vicky Collins, CEO of Total Tutoring, blends over a decade of teaching expertise with her parenting journey (of 4 children) and a passion for nurturing confidence and neurodiversity, helping children thrive through personalised learning and care.
The learning habits of smart kids
Want to raise a high-flying child? Bradley Busch offers some ideas to encourage the good learning habits that ‘smart kids’ demonstrate that will set your child up for life.
Believe they can improve. Kids can believe they have a fixed amount of intelligence, which can lead to a defeatist attitude towards schoolwork. They might say: ‘I know I can’t do this, so there’s no point trying.’ These children often give up on challenging tasks and reject feedback. Other children believe they can improve. They might say: ‘I find maths difficult so I’m going to try even harder.’ These kids have a growth mindset, believing they can improve by working hard and learning from their mistakes. This makes them better learners.
Try this: Praise your child’s effort, not achievement. Try: ‘I’m pleased with how hard you worked on your writing. What do you think would make it even better?’
Don’t compare. Smart children are more likely to focus on their own achievements and not compare their performance to others. This self-referencing leads to greater motivation and confidence. It’s the difference between saying: ‘I know I’m good at ten-pin bowling because I always win’ and ‘I know I’m good at ten-pin bowling because I used to get 90 points and now I get 110.’
Try this: ‘Your handwriting is really improving. Now try focussing on making your letters all the same size.’ Don’t say: ‘Why can’t you write as neatly as your sister?’
A sense of purpose
If children understand why they’re doing a task or how it will help, they are more engaged and make more effort.
Try this: A good teacher prefaces a task by explaining why their pupils are doing it. For example, ‘this will help you understand what we’ll cover in science tomorrow.’
Help your child understand the purpose of their homework and why it’s been set: is it a mock paper to help them do better in their SATs, for instance?
Smart kids recognise that procrastination isn’t helpful. Children often procrastinate because they don’t know where to start, the work looks too difficult or they don’t think they can finish it in one go. But once they start, they often realise it’s not as daunting as they thought. Try this: Set a timer for ten minutes. Encourage your child to start the task, with the promise that they can stop when the bell sounds. Often, they’ll want to carry on once started, as the brain doesn’t like leaving things unfinished.
Ask for help. In late primary school, children (particularly boys) can become reluctant to ask for help because they think it’s a sign of weakness. But one of the hallmarks of a resilient learner is that they ask for assistance if a task is proving difficult. Try this: Explain to your child that asking for help is the sign of a mature learner. If they’re having trouble with homework, encourage them to seek an explanation from the teacher.
Learn from feedback. Can your child absorb the teacher’s comments and guidance for improvement? Many students see feedback as criticism and are less likely to take it on board. Try this: Rather than your child asking themselves or you ‘Is this okay?’ – a question that could lead them to accepting work that doesn’t live up to their ability –suggest that your child asks: ‘How can I improve this?’
Bradley Busch is a Chartered Psychologist) and author of Release your inner drive: Everything you need to know about how to get good at stuff, available from: �� bookshop.org
Relaxation and self-care
Being sleep-deprived has a noticeable impact on children’s academic achievement. Sleep is closely linked to children’s learning, memory and emotional control and children who regularly get a good night’s sleep tend to raise their results by one grade per subject in exams.
Try this: Enforce a screentime ban an hour before bedtime and ensure tablets, phone and laptops are not in your child’s room overnight. Using screens before bed may result in your child losing an hour of sleep per night.
Contrary to appearances, smart kids are not the ones who put hours into every homework task and stop going to their after-school clubs to revise for exams. Instead, they balance their workload with extra-curricular activities, seeing friends or just relaxing. Physical activity and social contact are linked to mental and physical wellbeing, which has a knock-on effect on their schoolwork.
Try this: Make time to go to the park for a family walk or run. Leading by example is important if your child is going to achieve a good work/life balance.
Feel more alive
New year, new you. The old cliché is all too familiar and 1 January can stir up strange feelings, piling on the pressure to start of a brand-new year can actually be the perfect opportunity to embrace some exciting changes, even if it is just trying 2025 with open arms! Here are some
Put your best foot forward
We all know that walking is great for us. Getting your ten thousand steps a day is one of the best low-impact ways to stay healthy and fit. But why walk alone? There are lots of local walking clubs all across the country, so while the kids are at school or busy with activities, you can get walking and talking in the fresh air. With over 500 walking groups across Britain, Ramblers (ramblers.org.uk) is a great place to start.
Go wild
It might not be for the faint-hearted but there’s a reason that wild swimming has had a huge surge in popularity in the last decade. There are no limits on age or fitness levels and the positive effects of cold water and fresh air on the mind and body are indisputable. The promise of a warm coat, flask of hot tea or coffee and all those feel-good endorphins flooding your body when you emerge will help you take that chilly leap of faith.
Make time for a family day
The thought of a family day out can have us all checking our bank balances but quality family time doesn’t have to cost the earth. Sometimes just a trip to your local park with a hot chocolate and a game of hide-and-seek is enough to get everyone laughing. Take a pedal boat out on a pond near you or plan a nature scavenger hunt. Kids also go free at lots of museums and attractions; look out for annual memberships to save money across the year at your favourite spots.
Channel your inner Picasso
The link between doing something creative and positive benefits for the brain is commonly accepted by scientists. Creative activities stimulate both sides of the brain and can even have a similar effect to meditation, reducing stress and helping you to become more mindful. Pottery painting is a fantastic way to channel your inner artist and lose yourself in colour and contour. Find your local pottery painting studio, grab your mum friends and make a night of it! Or book in for a fun kids’ party.
Get creative in the kitchen
We all default to repeating the meals that we know won’t have the children sulking at the table, especially mid-week. But the weekend is the perfect excuse to dust off those old recipe books or search for some mouth-watering dishes online. If you fancy someone else making the decisions for you, companies like Hello Fresh, Gousto or Mindful Chef provide you with all the inspiration, instructions and ingredients to ensure that even the fussiest eaters are begging for seconds.
Get body brushing
Family life means we don’t often have time for those ‘self-care’ moments that we know are so good for us. Yes, a full-body massage might have to be saved for an annual birthday treat. But invest in a good body brush and set aside just five minutes a day to brush your skin in long strokes towards your heart and you’ll soon be reaping the rewards with better circulation and glowing skin.
alive in 2025
turn over a ‘new leaf’ before we have even finished tidying up the remnants of the New Year’s Eve celebrations. But the trying out some new dishes or booking that family day out you’ve been meaning to for ages. Time to feel alive and welcome some inspiring ideas from Sarah Lindsley.
Invest in a power bank
Put their toys on rotation
While it might not be as exciting as a new phone or other trending gadget you’ve had your eye on, a power bank –essentially a portable battery that keeps your devices fully charged on the move – is one of those items you never knew you needed until you have one. Whether you’re spending the new year heading to the in-laws or hitting the slopes, this is the best way to ensure there are no howls of anguish from the back seat when your kids’ tablets or games consoles run out of juice.
Hold a weekly family games night
Because family life is so busy, how often do we really get to sit down and enjoy screen-free time together? Agree on an evening that works for everyone and switch off the devices. Whether Monopoly, card games or karaoke are your bag, turn up the music, make some popcorn and enjoy some good oldfashioned fun. Get tweens and teens to join in by letting them pick the games. Check out charity shops for second-hand games or start a game swap with friends or neighbours.
Try a new sport
Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK. Dreamt up by a Mexican couple bored on holiday in the 1960s, it’s a racket sport combining elements of tennis and squash and typically played as doubles which makes it the perfect mix of fitness and fun for the whole family. Or round up some other parents and kids and get social on a court near you! Even the teenagers will be up for a go! Find out more from the Lawn Tennis Association website: �� lta.org.uk/play/ways-to-play/padel
The ‘I’m bored’ chorus is an all-too familiar sound to most households with small children. And when you’re tripping over the toys strewn across your floors while you listen to their complaints, this can add to frustration levels. A toy rotation system is a great solution for everyone. Hide or store away half your kids’ toys and swap them over every few months; it means less clutter for you and the novelty factor for them to keep them entertained without breaking the bank.
Prioritise your gut
Gut health is a buzzword that’s here to stay. Scientists are discovering more and more about the link between a healthy gut (which contains trillions of tiny organisms called microbes) and good physical and mental health. Some foods are known to be particularly good for our guts, including sourdough bread which contains natural probiotics which support healthy digestion and the immune system. So, queuing for that Saturday-morning loaf is totally justified. Or make your own.
Have a mini home makeover
If watching home improvement programmes has you longing for a living room overhaul or a sparkling new kitchen, don’t despair! Change doesn’t always have to break the bank. Simply moving a piece of furniture to a different position or buying a cool indoor plant can instantly revamp a room and give it a whole new vibe. Or why not paint a ‘feature’ wall in a striking colour and get the kids to muck in – just remember to put some protective sheets down first!
Juggling parenting and work successfully
By Catherine Oliver
Juggling parenting and work is hard, just ask any working parent. It can often feel like you’re stumbling from one mini drama to the next, wondering when your colleagues’ patience might run out... sound familiar?
While there’s no magic wand, there are good strategies which can help take off some of the pressure and make all the difference.
Start by looking for patterns. Think of regular pinch points such as no plan B when your childcare breaks down, weekly meetings that regularly run over or being too preoccupied to focus on work. Once you’ve identified these, try to take a step back and look for the small changes you could make.
Have a plan B ready
Especially if your child is sniffling and it’s likely you’ll get ‘that call.’ One strategy is to spend five minutes each weekend talking through your week with your partner, discussing who could be available if things go wrong on which day. If that’s not an option, having a list of people you can call on - family, friends or even paid help (nursery staff are often up for extra hours), means you can go from panic to action very quickly.
If you have control of your diary, thirty minutes of
‘transition time’ at the start and end of each day can be really helpful, especially when you’re on drop off or pick up.
To make this work, don’t schedule in anything for the first and last half an hour of your working day. This provides a buffer if the traffic is bad or your child is having a meltdown at drop off. A few minutes together without stress will mean the difference between you leaving them crying versus happy. And ditto at pick up. If your last meeting runs over, you won’t be clock watching.
Best of all, you’ll have a few minutes to decompress after your day, think about what you need to focus on the next day and go home with a clear head (okay, relatively clear!), ready to give your child all your attention.
Catherine Oliver is a Diversity and Inclusion Advisor who specialises in supporting working parents. Her new Amazon number 1 bestseller Working Parents-to-be is a step-bystep guide to parental leave and return and helps new or soon-to-be parents and workplaces to recognise the challenges of becoming a working parent and create a personalised plan to overcome them. weekly – ever. Share your
If you need to be home by a set time, that’s non-negotiable. If there are exceptions, be clear what they are. Key to this is not saying ‘yes’ to extra work straight away. Reflect. Is the extra work core to your role or would someone else be better placed to do it? Does
To the perfectionists out there, prioritise. Think about what you’re really being asked and get that job done. It can often be more straightforward
Whether that’s making the play, doing school drop offs or completing project X (most likely all of the above), if you’re clear on what matters
Taking a break is essential, especially when caring for a loved one. Providing care can be both rewarding and demanding, and a short stay in a care home—known as respite care—can provide much needed relief, while your loved one enjoys a safe, comfortable environment with personalised care.
The Fremantle Trust is a not-for-profit charity that has care and people at the heart of everything it does, based in Aylesbury with 10 care homes across Buckinghamshire.
What is respite care?
Respite care is a short-term stay, typically lasting one to six weeks, in a care home. The Fremantle Trust offers this type of care to support both caregivers, and those receiving care. It’s a chance for caregivers to rest, knowing their loved one is receiving compassionate care in a home from home setting.
When to arrange respite care
Respite care is flexible and can suit a range of needs. It might be right for you if you are planning a holiday, in need of extra help during a busy period like the holiday season, or if your loved one needs support recovering from an
illness or operation. It might benefit your loved one to have a change of scenery or time amongst other people. Respite care is also an opportunity to try a care home as a potential longer-term care solution.
The benefits of respite care
A short stay allows you, the caregiver, to step away from caregiving duties and focus on your own well-being, confident that your loved one is in a safe, nurturing environment. During a respite stay at the Fremantle Trust, your loved one will enjoy the same level of care and attention as long-term residents, with access to amenities, daily social activities, new experiences and nutritious meals. The Fremantle Trust encourages each person to maintain independence and enjoy life fully, whether through recovery support or joining in daily activities. Their short stays can be booked up to 12 months in advance, providing you the option to plan ahead and when you book 3 weeks of respite care you can enjoy a 4th week free.
To learn more about our short stays, visit www.fremantletrust.org to find a care home near you or speak to one of their team by calling: 0333 222 0920.
By Claire Lockie-Williams
January
Wednesday 1 – Sunday 12 January
ICE SKATING AT WILLEN LAKE
Willen Lake, Milton Keynes. Skate around the Winter Wonderland that is Willen On Ice. iceleisure.co.uk
Weekly Perform Classes
PERFORM DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING CLASSES
Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. Classes in Amersham, Beaconsfield, Berkhamsted, Gerrard Cross and Wendover. To book a FREE class visit: perform.org.uk/try
Wednesday 8 January
ECO TOTS
Amersham Field Centre, Mop End. Woodland adventures. 18 months-5yrs. 9.30-11am. Term time. Book on website: field-studies-council.org
FOREST SCHOOL
Amersham Field Centre
Forest school sessions for Home education groups. 7+yrs. 9.30-11am. Term time. Book via website: field-studies-council.org
COLOUR ZONE ART CLUB
Little Kingshill Combined School, Great Missenden.
After School Club for children at Little Kingshill Combined School, helping children develop their artistic skills and knowledge. 11 week course.
3.15-4.15pm. For Years 1-6. For booking and prices,see website clubs-louise.square.site
Thursday 9 January
DISCOVER DUCKS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Fun snow themed session including a story, song, crafts, games, museum trail and play. 10am-12pm. Also on 30th January, 13th and 27th February. For booking and prices, discoverbucksmuseum.org
COLOUR ZONE PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB
Little Kingshill Combined School, Great Missenden.
After-school club at Little Kingshill Combined School, helping children explore and develop their creative side using photography. 11 week course. 3.15-4.15pm. For Years 1-6. For booking and prices, clubs-louise.square.site
Thursday 9 – Monday 13 January
TIGGYWINKLES VISITOR CENTRE
Haddenham, Buckinghamshire. Meet a Hedgehog, peek through the hospital windows at baby animals and rescued ones, enjoy the exhibitions and education centres. Open Thursdays- Mondays. Under 3yrs Free. Family tickets available. sttiggywinkles.org.uk
Friday 10 January
FAMILY CHIMPS
Roman Park Hall, Berryfields. Entertainment for 0-5yrs. 10-11am. Multiple Bucks locations. ccchimps.com/aylesbury
TITCHY TODDLERS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Toddler session with story-telling and
activities. January is ‘Travel and Transport’, February is ‘Awesome Animals.’ 6months-4yrs. 10am-12pm. Also on 13th January and 14thFebruary. See website for admission and timings: roalddahlmuseum.org
Saturday 11 January
CRAFT CLUB
Burnham Library.
Weekly crafting sessions for children. 2-3.30pm. Drop-in, free. buckinghamshire.spydus.co.uk
TEEN AUTISM SOCIAL CLUB Marlow Library.
Brand new weekly social club in a safe, relaxed environment. 13-17yrs. 10.15-11.15am. Free. buckinghamshire.spydus.co.uk
YOUNG RANGERS AND TEEN RANGERS
College Lake Nature Reserve, near Tring. Wildlife clubs for 8-11yrs (Young Rangers) and 11-17 (Teen Rangers). 10.30am-12.30pm: Young Rangers. 1.30-3.30pm: Teen Rangers. Tickets close 48-hours prior to session. Also on 8th February. bbowt.org.uk
Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 January
PIPSICALS
Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. Pips dance academy is hosting the dance event of the year! Multiple show times. elgiva.com
ROALD DAHL CHILDREN’S GALLERIES
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Crawl along Fantastic Mr Fox’s tunnel, investigate mini-beasts inside the Giant Peach and explore sound with the BFG in this fabulous hands-on gallery. Open weekends and school holidays. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Monday 13 January
WHIZZ KIDS
Thame, Oxon.
Indoor children’s activity centre includes giant play frame, toddler play frame, sports arena, bouncy castle and more! Open daily. Pre-booking advised. whizzkidz-thame.co.uk
YOUTH THEATRE
Chiltern Hills Academy, Chesham. Diverse talent performing arts group. 12+yrs. 5.15-7pm or 7.15-9pm. thetheatreshed.co.uk
Monday 13 – Friday 17 January
PAY AND PLAY
Sapphire Gymnastics, Pitstone. Free roam of the gym with soft play and Olympic apparatus for kids to explore. Crawlers-6yrs. Also on Sundays. Check website for times and bookings as it differs out of term time. sapphiregymnastics.co.uk
Tuesday 14 January
CHILDREN’S THEATRE
Chiltern Hills Academy, Chesham. A place where creativity knows no bounds! Term time, weekly. 6-11yrs. 5.15-6.30pm. thetheatreshed.co.uk
Tuesday 14 January (Cont’)
CONFIDENT ME
Southcourt Family Centre, Aylesbury. Fabulous well-being course for parents of toddlers, focusing on increasing their toddlers confidence through play. 2-4yrs. 1-3pm. Free. Booking required. Multiple venues. adultlearningbc.ac.uk
MONKEY MUSIC
Chesham.
Music classes for 0-4rs. Variety of locations and age classes available. monkeymusic.co.uk
Wednesday 15 January
CHESHAM MUSEUM
Town Hall, Chesham. Lovely museum with hands on items, denoting Chesham’s history. 10am-3pm. Free, open Weds and Sats. cheshammuseum.org.uk
STAY AND PLAY CAFE
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Safe play area for under 5s, free tea and coffee for their adults. 10am-12pm. £2 per child, adults free. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Wednesday 15 – Saturday 18 January
OPEN GARDENS- LINDENGATE
Aylesbury Road, Wendover. Unique secret garden open to all for exploration and relaxation.
Open Wednesday – Saturday, opening times differ. Free admission. suggested donation £5. lindengate.org.uk
Thursday 16 January
FOX CUBS
Bucks Goat Centre, Aylesbury. Lovely centre with farm animals and SEN club, Fox Cubs, which runs term time. For opening times and club dates, thebucksgoatcentre.website
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. A self-led special interactive session in the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery for under 5’s and their carers. 10-11.30am. Also 24th & 31st Jan and 7th, 14th & 28th Feb. discoverbucksmuseum.org
MINI EXPLORERS
Tring Natural History Museum. Toddler play session discovering amazing specimens. 10.30am-12pm. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Saturday 18 January
BECOME A CODEBREAKER
Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes. Interactive workshop with ciphers and codes. 14+yrs. 11am, booking required, prices on website. Admission pass required to access grounds afterwards. bletchleypark.org.uk
WOODLAND LIBRARY
The Story Museum, Oxford. Story-telling and craft. 2-4yrs. 11am. Also on 22nd Feb. storymuseum.org.uk
Sunday 19 January
BABY AND CHILD FIRST AID COURSE
Great Kingshill Village Hall. Training session with the NCT. 10am-1pm. £33 pp, £55 couple booking. nct.intrabiz.co.uk
Tuesday 21 January
EVERYDAY FIRST AID COURSE
Haddenham Community Library. Free first aid course for parents and carers of children in Buckinghamshire schools. Booking required. 12.15-2.45pm. adultlearningbc.ac.uk
Wednesday 22 January
HOME EDUCATION DAY
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. How do minibeasts adapt for their environments? What makes an insect an insect? Come and find out! 4-11yrs. 11am-12.30pm. Next session on 7th February. For booking and prices, see: discoverbucksmuseum.org
HOPE TOTS
Restore Hope, Latimer. Christian toddler group 0-4yrs, engaging stories, play and animals. Runs term time, Wednesdays. 9.30-11.30am. Contact if transport help is required. restorehopelatimer.org
Wednesday 22 – Sunday 26 January
AMERSHAM MUSEUM
Old Amersham, High Street. Beautiful museum with medicinal garden. Check website for events on weekends and holidays. 12-4.30pm. amershammuseum.org
Thursday 23 January
SUPPORT YOUR AUTISTIC CHILD AT HOME
Online via Buckinghamshire Adult Learning.
Practical strategies and tips from Bucks adult learning. Booking required. 9.30-11.30. Free. adultlearningbc.ac.uk
Thursday 23 – Saturday 25 January
ANNIE
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury. Classical musical with Annie charming the hearts of everyone. Multiple performances. Booking required. atgtickets.com
Friday 24 January
TINY TALK TIME
Wycombe Museum, Priory Ave. Stories, crafts and Museum fun. 2-5yrs. 10-10.45am. Children £3.50, Adults Free. Also 7th & 28th Feb. wycombemuseum.org.uk
Saturday 25 January
CIRQUE ENCHANTMENT
Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe. Mesmerising performance with stunning vocals and captivating circus skills. Booking required. trafalgartickets.com
LET’S CELEBRATE: CHINESE NEW YEAR
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Make your own dragon puppet and snake toy. 4-11yrs. Multiple sessions. For booking and prices, see website: discoverbucksmuseum.org
Saturday 25 January (Cont’)
SKETCH AND SCRIBBLE
Tring Natural History Museum. Hands-on family fun with specimen handling and artistry. 2.30-3.30pm. Free, booking essential. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Sunday 26 January
THE DREAMER- LIVE
Elgiva Theatre, Chesham. Breathtaking new magic show to astound the audience. 7pm. Book online: elgiva.com
Wednesday 29 January
BOUNCE AND RHYME
Chesham Library.
Lovely musical session for u5’s. 10.30-11am. Free. Booking required. buckinghamshire.spydus.co.uk
Friday 31 January
BURNS NIGHT
A celebratory supper raising funds for the GXCA. 6.30pm onwards. Pre-booking required: gxca.org.uk
EXPLORE
Wycombe Museum, Priory Ave. Interactive learning workshop for Home Educators and their children. Crafts, activities and play. 11.30am-12.30pm (4-6yrs) and 12.301.30pm (7-11yrs). Adults free. wycombemuseum.org.uk
February
Saturday 1 February
BAZAAR AND CRAFT FAYRE
Kings Langley Community Centre, Kings Langley.
Homemade cakes, jams and gifts, plus crafts and a raffle. 10am-3pm. £2 entry. Under 14yrs free. klmtc.org
HORSE TRUST
Slad Lane, Princes Risborough. Lovely horse centre for retired and rescued horses and ponies, quaint tea room on site. £8 per car, £1 on foot. Open most days, see website to check. Prebooking required for cars. horsetrust.org.uk
Saturday 1 February (Cont’)
TWEEN READERS
Marlow Library, Marlow. Fun kids gathering with puzzles, discussions and board games. 9-14yrs. Weekly, 11.30am12.30pm. FREE. buckinghamshire.spydus.co.uk
Sunday 2 February
KIDS ART AND YOGA Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue. Flex creative and physical muscles. 7-11yrs. 10.30am-12.30pm. For booking and prices, wycombemuseum.org.uk
SENDSATIONAL MORNING
Tring Natural History Museum
An opportunity for children with neurodiverse conditions to enjoy the Museum at a quieter time. 5+yrs-15yrs. 10am-12pm. Free. Booking essential. nhm.ac.uk/tring
Monday 3 February
NATHAN’S FARM
Chalfont St.Giles. Lovely family run farm, with opportunities to feed the animals and farm foods for sale. 10am-4pm. Entry cost, per car. Open daily but check website for opening hours in winter. nathansfarm.co.uk
GRAND-DUCKS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Discover Ducks session welcoming Grandparents (and other family). 10am-12pm. Also 3 March. discoverbucksmuseum.org
Tuesday 11 February
HOPE CAFE
Restore Hope, Latimer. Lovely, welcoming group for all ages, including crafts, chat and coffee. 10.30am-12.30pm. See website, restorehopelatimer.org
Thursday 13 February
BABES IN THE WOOD Wycombe Museum, Priory Ave.
An outdoor forest school session for little ones to enjoy nature. 18mths-5yrs. 10-11.30am. Adults FREE. Booking required online: wycombemuseum.org.uk
Saturday 15 February
AUTHOR EVENTS
The Story Museum, Oxford. Three different days of author events at the museum this half term. Heroes and Villains, Faedom and Myth Atlas. Also on 17th and 18th February. See website for author session and booking. storymuseum.org.uk
WILD SCIENCE ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. Meet creatures great and small with this interactive animal handling session for 4-10yrs. Then try out a range of animalthemed crafts t. For booking and prices visit: discoverbucksmuseum.org
Half Term Fun at The Roald Dahl Museum
Daily in Half Term
Saturday 15 – Friday 21 February
DISCOVER BUCKS - HALF TERM FUN
Discover Bucks Museum, Aylesbury. There’s so much animal themed fun this half term at the Museum! Animal science sessions, decorate a photo frame, step into the ‘Gruffalo’ story, immerse yourself in ‘The Enormous Crocodile’ and made a predator puppet. Plus, the amazing Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery. Multiple sessions for a variety of ages. For booking and prices, discoverbucksmuseum.org
HALF TERM AT BLETCHLEY PARK
Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes. Activities for all the family. See website for more details, bletchleypark.org.uk
HALF TERM CAMPS
Sapphire Gymnastics, Pitstone. Variety of holiday camps including cheerleading, multisports, gymnastics, circus skills and more! Check website for dates and bookings. Also in Hemel Hempstead, dates may differ. sapphiregymnastics.co.uk
Saturday 15 – Sunday 23 February
LOVE AND LAMBS
Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common. It’s springtime soon at the farm and there’s lovely little lambs to be seen. See website for opening times and booking. oddsfarm.co.uk
HALF TERM AT WADDESDON Waddesdon Manor, nr Aylesbury. Get your hands dirty with Mud and Guts, Two workshops a day on 15 & 19 Feb. Den building, fire lighting and animal tracking as well as lots of games. Drop off kids, 2-hr session. 11am-4pm, (closed Mon 17 & Tue 18). Booking required: waddesdon.org.uk
STORYTELLING & CHILD HEROES TRAIL
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Immerse yourself in magical storytelling with extracts from Matilda and the BFG, plus search out clues along the Museum Child Heroes trail to gain a reward. Free with admission. roalddahlmuseum.org
More Daily Fun
RUSH
Rush Trampoline Park, High Wycombe. An exciting place for Bouncers of all ages. A variety of experiences available: Toddler Takeovers, Adults evenings, SEN experiences on Mondays. rushuk.com
Sunday 16 February
RUDE SCIENCE
Wycombe Swan, St Mary’s Street. The naughtiest, grossest, funniest science stunt show. Booking required. trafalgartickets.com
STEAMING DAY
Bucks Railway Centre, Quainton. There’s full-sized steam train rides and miniature ride on trains plus the museum, visitor centre and cafe are open too. 10.30am-5pm. Also 19th Feb. bucksrailcentre.org
Monday 17 – Friday 21 February
CHILDREN AND YOUTH THEATRE
Chiltern Hills Academy, Chesham. Half-term workshops run by The Theatre Shed, with performing arts and theatre skill fun. See website for booking. thetheatreshed.co.uk
CLAY CREATIONS
Roald Dahl Museum, Great Missenden. Make fabulous clay creations while learning about your favourite Roald Dahl Child Heroes. £5pp in addition to Museum admission. See website: roalddahlmuseum.org
Wednesday 19 February
MISCHIEF AND MAYHEM IN MOOMIN
VILL AGE
The Story Museum, Oxford. Moomin puppetry. 5+yrs. See website for sessions and booking. storymuseum.org.uk
POO AND OTHER CLUES
College Lake Nature Reserve, nr Tring. Explore the wonders of nature within a pond. 10.15-11.45. 2-11yrs. Pre-book at: bbowt.org.uk
POND DIPPING
College Lake Nature Reserve, near Tring. Explore the wonders of nature within a pond.1.30-2.30pm. 7+yrs. Pre-book at: bbowt.org.uk
Saturday 22 February
MR SLEEPYBUM
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. Hilarious kids comedy show. 11am and 2pm showings. See website to book: atgtickets.com
Sunday 23 February
COME AND SEE PADDINGTON BEAR Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton.
Meet Paddington, enjoy steam train rides and entry to the railway museum, visitor centre and cafe. 10.30am-5pm. See website for details and pre-booking. bucksrailcentre.org
Thursday 27 February
WHIPPED UP
The Stables, Milton Keynes. A comedic sensory play where babies are the customers and parents are along for the ride. Multiple showings. 2mths2yrs. stables.org
BABES IN THE WOOD
Wycombe Museum, Priory Ave. An outdoor forest school session. 18mths-5yrs. 10-11.30am. Adults FREE. Booking required online: wycombemuseum.org.uk
Saturday 1 – Sunday 2 March
POP UP ART SHOW
Chilterns Neuro Centre, Wendover.. Fundraising weekend for the Centre. chilternsneurocentre.org
