Oxfordshire Families magazine July - August 2013

FREE

Issue 56

July - Au gust 20

13

Issue 61 : (M)

• Boarding and day school • Girls 3-18 years • Boys 3-8 years

Open Day Wednesday 18 September 10.00am - 1.00pm

A happy and purposeful atmosphere for learning

Rye St Antony, Pullen’s Lane, Headington, Oxford OX3 OBY

Rye offers an environment in which achievements are celebrated, efforts praised and pupils are enabled to thrive and grow, keen to learn and keen to succeed.

Telephone: 01865 762802 Fax: 01865 763611 E-mail: enquiries@ryestantony.co.uk Website: www.ryestantony.co.uk Registered Charity No. 309685

See Oxfordshire’s best what’s on guide on pages 15-17

Contents

News & views Mouslford Local Nursery Expands

The 2013 WABA World Breastfeeding Week takes place 1-7 August, with this year’s theme ‘Breastfeeding Support: Close to Mothers.’ The week concentrates on Breastfeeding Peer Counselling, and the support that’s available to sustain breastfeeding and to identify local community contacts for mothers. Submit your pledge for World Breastfeeding Week 2013 at worldbreastfeedingweek.org.

Cranford House Nursery has a new home, in a larger location, a short hop down the road from the main school in Moulsford.

With fabulous internal space, extensive green outdoors, a specially tailored termtime curriculum and flexible options for holiday and after school care it welcomes boys and girls from 2 years. Why not go along to the nursery open days on: Saturday 21 September at 10am – 12pm and Friday 15 November 15 at 10am – 12pm. Also visit cranfordhouse.net.

Labels4kids offer for Oxfordshire families

Parents - it’s your phone, your health and very much your call

World Breastfeeding Week

Founder of labels4kids.com, Ann-Maree Morrison, was recently invited by 10 Downing Street to join their business EU E-Commerce Task Force in London and she’s also been busy developing the next Labels4Kids website. To assist with this, Ann-Maree is inviting Families Oxfordshire readers to provide feedback about the website and to receive 10% discount on purchases in return, by using the code families at the checkout.

Pass it on…

For this year’s National Transplant Week (8-14 July) join the NHS Organ Donor Register and pass on the message that you’ve done so to family and friends.

Everyone can help raise awareness of organ donation and save lives whether you’re an individual, company or charity, you can sign-up to the NHS Organ Donor Register. Download materials to help you promote this important cause to friends, family and colleagues at transplantweek. co.uk.

2

Abingdon School Economists reach final rounds of global competition Three economics students from Abingdon School have won through to the final rounds of the PolyU Global Student Challenge, an international business competition run by the Polytechnic University of Hong Kong. Henrik Cox, Jamie Sandall and Harry Sandford where one of just 30 shortlisted teams from schools across the world, who devised a SMART phone app controlled suitcase, designed to make consumers’ journeys easier, safer and environmentally informative.

Advertise in Families Oxfordshire call 01993 815966 or email editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Contact: Ema Murphy - Editor T: 01993 815966 / 07733 228 038 E: editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk W: familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Social networking find us on

The world-renowned CBeebies TV show Grandpa in my Pocket will be live on stage at the New Theatre Oxford from Thursday 22nd to Sunday 25th August. This brand new stage show entitled ‘Teamwork!’ will delight and engage audiences through an ensemble storytelling technique with song, dance, puppetry and interaction with the audience, who are invited to help to tell the story.

14 15 16

CBeebies TV hits Oxford’s New Theatre!

Kids encouraged to have outdoor adventures!

Environmental dangers are all around, but you don’t need to be a health nut to avoid them. Radiation emissions from smart phones are much higher than from standard phones, so now a new mobile app, tawkon, will alert you about the potential radiation hazards and make suggestions on how to keep your exposure low. Mobile phones provide communication via a network of base stations, with information transmitted from the phone to the base station via powerful, highfrequency electromagnetic fields, and the level of radiation exposure is greatest when close to its source. Your phone can measure its radiation output, which tawkon will tap into, extract data from it, before calculating the phone’s radiation level. With the right guidance you and your children can minimise this exposure. For more information go to familiesonline. co.uk/radiation or tawkon.com.

Oxfordshire

02/04/05 06/07 08 09 10 11 12/13

What I learned on my holidays A problem shared Dogs and babies Eds reading room Foodies Summer camps Importance of sunshine Skin is in for Summer!

Save on summer fun Festivals What’s on:

17/18/19

Families Oxfordshire artworked & designed by Dickidot Limited.

01865 400801 www.dickidot.com

`` Theatre & music `` Museums & galleries `` Summer camps

News & views Oxfordshire

Families’ readers get 10% from Tom Tag!

Can you deliver You will be delivering Families Oxfordshire to outlets in the Oxfordshire area every other month.

The National Trust has updated its list of 50 Thing To Do Before You’re 11¾.

So convince your child there’s nothing like being outdoors, by checking out the website to discover how to camp out in the wild, build a den, go star gazing, hunt for fossils, set-up a snail race, explore a cave and much, much more!

50things.org.uk.

News and views

You need to be available days during school time. This would suit a mum or dad or an active retired person.

You need to have a cheerful and polite manner and be able to carry and have your own car. A weather proof storage space is helpful.

For more details call Ema on 01993 815966 or email editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Remembering everything they need to take to school and bring home is a daily challenge for most children. TomTag has a solution - for a daily checklist that clips to a school bag and is practical and fun to use! Pictures identify which items a child needs. Packs contains button holders for every day of the school week and supply of blank buttons and picture stickers for additional activities including sports, musical instruments and other school essentials. Get yours online for £9.99 at www.orkidideas.com before 31st August using code FAM10 to receive your 10% discount!

Lasergaming Oxford is excited to announce the launch of a NEW Nationwide Laser Tag hire company Laser Tag In a Box. Parents, families, activity camps, schools and youth organisations can now run their own events hiring laser phasers and inflatables from only £185. Hire for a Saturday and get Sunday FREE! Delivered directly to your door, Lasergaming will provide everything needed to run your own event, turn key, hassle free, great value for money and lots of fun for everyone!

Lisa Pointin at Laser Tag In a Box said “We have so many enquiries from activity centres, parents and organisations wanting to run their own Laser Tag events, so Laser Tag In a Box is the perfect solution!” Long term hire available. Call 01865 407316 or visit lasertaginabox.co.uk.

Oxfordshire

July / August 2013

3

News & views 25% off award-winning tuition

A simple supper for a vital charity

For many families a meal together can be a fun and sometimes challenging time! For families that spend time at

Free new guide to flying with children

Explore Learning centres in Oxford and further afield provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities and special courses in 11+ exam preparation. The Ofsted registered centres are open 7 days a week, meaning that families can use Childcare Vouchers to pay for membership. Children attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis, meaning that Explore tuition fits easily into busy family life.

As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme tailored to meet their needs, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum. This combination of benefits has led to the company being named Supplementary Education Provider of the Year at the prestigious Education Investor Awards for the past 2 years running.

July is the most popular time of the year for families to join Explore Learning, as parents in Oxfordshire look for an engaging way to keep their children’s brains active over the long summer break. Also, families joining in July will receive 25% off their first full month of tuition at participating centres, so now is a great time to join if you haven’t already!

Explore Learning has centres in Oxford try us for free to find out how your family can benefit! To book your trial, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call your local centre.

Helen & Douglas House, having a meal as a family, without the worry of 24-hour care, medication needs, tube feeding and interruptions, is often a luxury.

We want to ask if you’d do something very special – and fun -for the families cared for by Helen & Douglas House. Could you host a ‘Simply Supper’ for family or friends or and invite them to donate what they thought the meal was worth? To raise funds to run two lovely, homely, hospice houses, for children and young adults with life-shortening conditions and their families who go there for respite breaks and end-of-life care. helenanddouglas.org.uk.

Help is at Hand for Busy Mums!

Becoming a parent is probably one of the best things that ever happened to you. But sometimes you wish you just had more time to enjoy it. Now you can!

Mummy’s Maid will provide you with an extra pair of hands that understands!

Range of services we offer:

A new ebook has been launched offering parental advice on flying with children entitled Cheapflights’ Guide to Flying with Children. As many parents begin to plan summer holidays abroad, the information includes preparing for the flight, making life easier at the airport and useful tips from regular flying families. Get your ebook courtesy of www.cheapflights.co.uk.

 Childcare  New baby service  Laundry  Ironing  Shopping  Cleaning  Errand running Interested in working for Mummy’s Maid? Call us on 0845 463 0075 Email: info@mummysmaid.co.uk or visit www.mummysmaid.co.uk

Enrich your summer with a student

Becoming a Bright World host family can not only provide extra income, but also introduces your own children to new cultures and at the same time make a young international student’s life so much better while away from home. For more information on becoming a host family for Bright World Guardianships, please contact: Lindsay Gayler on lindsay@brightworld.co.uk.

Extra MMR doses ordered by GP practices The national catch-up programme to increase MMR vaccination uptake in children who are unvaccinated, has resulted in more than 95 per cent of GP practices across England, (including Oxfordshire) ordering more than 200,000 extra doses of the vaccine. The catch-up programme, run by Public Health England (PHE), NHS England and the Department of Health, aims to prevent measles outbreaks by vaccinating as many 10-16 year olds as possible.

Abingdon Prep School Sports Academy Summer courses: cricket, rugby & multi-sports tel: 01865 391570 enquiries@abingdonprep.org.uk www.abingdon.org.uk/prep/sports_academy

do you want to host an international student?

Bright World Guardianships takes care of international boarding students in UK schools. We are looking for families to host our students for some weekends and half terms.

This can be a very rewarding role and provides families with a valuable extra income.

Here’s a way to spend weekends that’ll have 4-18 year olds buzzing.

Enrol them in your local Stagecoach Theatre Arts school where they learn to act, sing and dance.

The skills they learn aren’t just for the stage.

Our students grow in confidence and self-esteem.

Skills for Life! There’s no audition - all they need is enthusiasm.

Summer Holiday Shows Oxford: Fiddler on the Roof / Merlin and the Mystical Unicorn Thame: Looking for Elvis Abingdon: Little Shop of Horrors / A Whole Lot of Dalmatians Banbury: Alice in Wonderland

OXFORD

Providing short term household services to busy mums without the need for long term contracts Are you a busy mum who would love someone to come in and take care of some of the household chores on a short term basis, allowing you to concentrate on other things?

Well look no further - Mummy’s Maid will provide you with an Extra Pair of Hands that Understand!

Mummy’s Maid offers Short Term Household contracts from as little as 2 hours.

Whatever your needs Mummy’s Maid can help!

Tel: 0845 463 0075 info@mummysmaid.co.uk www.mummysmaid.co.uk

Maya Sprigg

ABINGDON Julia Howson

Bright World is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

BANBURY

Melissa Allen

THAME

Nicky Goodwin

01869 278600

email: oxford@stagecoach.co.uk

01865 390970

email: abingdon@stagecoach.co.uk

01908 969467

email: banbury@stagecoach.co.uk

www.stagecoach.co.uk

For more more information and an application pack please email: lindsay@brightworld.co.uk

New schools opening in Thame and Banbury

www.brightworld.co.uk

Issue 54 : (D)

4

01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

01865 763767

email: thame@stagecoach.co.uk

Oxfordshire

July / August 2013

5

What I learned on my holidays...

By Joanna Moorhead

The long summer break is almost upon us; but whether you’re having a staycation or going away, why not fold some learning into your vacation plans? We’ve got 20 great ideas for skills you and your family can master over the weeks ahead – wherever you are.

1

Sleep outdoors: nothing says ‘summer’ like the chance to kip outside. If you can, find a campsite where you can go for a few days; but if you can’t get away, put up a tent in the garden. No tent? Borrow one. You’ll be amazed at the amount of fun kids can have with a few torches under canvas. Make sure they have lots of snacks – and don’t forget the singsongs!

4

5

3

6

Find a geocache: geocaching is like a treasure hunt where you use a GPS device to find a container which will have some small items (maybe toys) inside. It’s fun, exciting, and there’s lots to learn (about orienteering, geography, exploration, the environment).

For more information see www.geocaching.com

Have a treasure hunt: there are loads of different ways to run a treasure hunt, so read up on the different methods online.

It’s all down to good planning, so don’t stint on that: you’ll spend more time on planning than on the event itself. As a rough rule of thumb, kids can manage twice as many clues as their age.

7

Make a movie: with the arrival of the iPhone and the iPad, it’s never been easier to make a (surprisingly professional) home movie. Choose your location, put together your storyboard and...action! There are various apps that can make filming easier (eg filmic pro, which locks the camera’s settings for the duration of a shot).

Go wild swimming: swimming in rivers and lakes may sound an experience not a learning activity – but swimming in a natural environment helps kids learn about nature, and it’s a totally different experience from swimming in a pool, even an outdoor one. See www. wildswimming.co.uk for ideas of where to try it out.

01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

8

9

10

Fly a kite: gem up on wind direction, find a suitable open space, and make or invest in a kite. Read up online on how to launch a kite, and go for it!

You’ll get a tremendous sense of satisfaction as your kite dances across the sky.

6

1

2

Climb a tree: there’s so much to learn in tree-climbing: how to deal with the unexpected, how to trust your own judgement, how to take a risk and how to manage failure.

You learn that it’s harder to come down than to go up, and you learn how to look after your friend who falls out of the tree. And they’re all life skills that are useful for ever.

Build a den: it’s come to symbolise childhood freedom, and there’s little doubt it’s an activity children (and their parents) absolutely love.

Dens are best built in woods, but even a small garden or a bedroom will do as a venue.

The secret is to allow your child to let his/her imagination run wild (and not worry too much about the tidying up afterwards).

Ride a horse: some kids are pony-mad, but even those who don’t do regular lessons usually love at least the occasional chance to ride.

Look up a riding school and see what they can offer in terms of a one-off experience; ideally, you’ll want to go too.

Find your way using a map and compass: whether you’re in a city or the country, whether it’s somewhere you know or somewhere new to you, there’s loads to learn from this. It’s tricky to work out the compass points, so a good activity to do en famille; also great to acclimatise children with maps and their usefulness.

11

Track wild animals: again this is something that can be done in the outback, the local park, or your back garden. Your children are looking for signs that animals have been here: pawprints, claw marks, scuff marks and – most fascinating of all for most kids – poo.

12

Catch a fish: if you’re new to fishing, use a net. Find water that’s clean and clear, and where you can see there are lots of fish. Then be patient, and ready to pounce.

13

Identify wild flowers: there are so many beautiful wild flowers, and it feels knowledgeable when you know what’s what.

Choose an area rich in wild foliage, and take a book or leaflet with you to help you with identification.

14

Cook on a campfire: sausages and marshmallows are the obvious contenders – but you can be more ambitious than that! You can cook anything on a campfire. Try frying eggs, grilling fish, warming burritos, making risotto. Kids will eat things they’d never eat at home when they’ve been whizzed up on a campfire.

15

Go bird watching: if you’ve never done it, and know little about birds, the best thing to do is go to an RSPB sanctuary. Take your binoculars, read the guides, and use the hides.

16

Build a raft: there are courses in raft-building; but there are also instructions (on the internet). It takes time, and teamwork, and effort; but there’s nothing like the feeling of finding it floats!

17

Identify at least ten constellations: invest in a good chart, wait for a dark night, keep your eyes peeled.

You get a huge sense of satisfaction, and awe, when you manage to do it.

18

Make a family tree: learning about your family history is a fascinating way to put flesh on the bones of history lessons.

What’s more, grandparents and great-aunts and uncles won’t always be around to fill you in – so ask the questions now.

19

Start a collection: it can be anything – football cards, postcards, photographs of funfairs you’ve visited, pebbles from beaches you’ve been to. You can collect experiences as well as items: keep a book where you short review of every film you watch, every book you read, or a description of every day out you have. Collections aren’t about WHAT they are, they’re about learning to organise your thoughts in a coherent, logical way.

20

Learn a good card or magic trick: it takes practice, but it’s enormous fun and if you get good at your trick, you really can surprise people (especially visitors). It’s partperformance, part-agility, partconfidence; all useful skills for every child.

Oxfordshire

July / August 2013

7

Dogs and babies

A problem shared Lisa Farrow is a Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist and has been helping children and families with emotional and psychological difficulties for 20 years. She works in the NHS and is in private practice.

do not under-estimate children’s abilities to understand from a very early age.

Even if he shows no interest or denies what you are saying, do not be deterred but continue to talk out loud to yourself or have these conversations with daddy in your son’s presence about how it must feel e.g. having mummy an daddy to himself and along comes his brother who he interested in but takes up lots of their time.

I would also praise your 2 yearold whenever he is being helpful by emphasizing his new role as ‘big brother’ and how his little brother will be looking up to him, through pointing out the advantages of having a younger brother.

Try setting aside one-to-one time with the oldest child, to reinforce the message that he is still very important to you both.

Continue to involve him as much as possible and be sympathetic to the changes he is experiencing whilst conveying that his little brother is here to stay and there is plenty of room in mummy’s mind and heart for both of them!

An additional member to the family Q: My eldest son is 2 years and is struggling to cope with the arrival of his baby brother, aged 5 months. I have noticed he is eager to ‘help’ and sometimes his kisses and cuddles can be a bit too rough. He seems to start off being gentle, but then becomes a little aggressive in his behaviour.

My husband and I trying to involve him as much as possible which sometimes gets really stressful and I find myself shouting at my 2 year-old.

Please help as we are at the end of our tether.

Annie, Yarnton.

Dear Annie, A: Your eldest son has had two years of uninterrupted adoration from his parents (not to mention from friends and family) and along comes baby brother and his world is shattered.

It is very important that you continue to involve him as much as possible. When you notice that he is being a bit ‘rough’, talk to him directly about his feelings, whatever they are, towards his brother. He may not appear to be listening or understanding, but

8

Bed time Dramas Q: Milly, my six year old is a lively confident little girl but becomes very clingy and demanding at night, refusing to settle to sleep on her own.

by Pascale Gravell

other. However, you going to bed with her may give her a misguided view that you two are equals and will undermine your role as the parent.

Assuming that you have explored and ruled out any serious concerns e.g. nightmares or any underlying issues that could be bothering her, I think it is time to take your courage in both hands and set some firm boundaries.

You’ll need some time to prepare for this and it is crucial that your partner agrees and supports you with whatever arrangements you come to regarding the bedtime ritual. (Attempting this this during school holidays can sometimes be easier, if the child gets less sleep than normal while the new system is introduced), there isn’t the added pressure of the child going to school in the morning.

The key is to try to understand what is going on. View your child’s behavior as a communication e.g. she may find it difficult to separate from you

at night – children feel especially vulnerable and little at night when it is dark and the world shuts down. Or it could be that she is jealous of you spending time with daddy, and possibly feels excluded. Does daddy spend a bit of time with her when he gets in from work? Perhaps arrange some brief time together as a family before bedtime, or explore other possibilities.

Give her some say in what might form her routine e.g. bath, story, light on or off. Do be firm about the new routine and about how she is a big girl now and should be sleeping on her own, without mummy or daddy being there.

Do you have a concern or question about parenting? If so send us an email in confidence to editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk.

Top tips for preparing your dog for baby’s arrival:

While we cannot reply directly to individuals, we will endeavor to publish a selection received in every issue. Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved.

``

...a school brimming with enthusiasm, humour, energy and achievement.

She is an only child. Her bedtime is 7pm but she finds all sorts of excuses to prolong this and doesn’t usually fall asleep until about 9pm with one of us (usually me!) lying next to her on the bed.

If I try to leave she starts to cry and I feel so guilty for leaving her alone.

``

for entry at age 11+, 13+ and directly into The Sixth Form

Once she is asleep she is fine and doesn’t wake-up.

We were hoping things would improve as she gets older and we might get some time to ourselves, but it seems to be getting worse.

I am starting to feel a bit resentful about this. Any suggestions?!

•

fully coeducational school based in North Oxford

•

highly interactive, motivating teaching in small classes

Laura, Summertown.

Dear Laura, A: It is understandable you are starting to feel resentful towards your daughter and she will pick up on this so it really important that you are seeking help.

Couple time is so important in order for parents to enjoy each

01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

``

(maximum 15 up to GCSE and 10 for A level) •

‘outstanding pastoral’ care (ISI report)

•

busy, engaging activities, sports and social programmes

•

excellent results and strong record of university entrance

``

an 11-18 independent coeducational school based in Oxford

www.doverbroecks.com

``

Dogs like routine so it’s never too early to get your dog used to changes BEFORE the baby comes home. By making changes while you or your partner are still expecting, your dog won’t associate the baby with upheaval.

It’s essential that your dog associates the baby with positive feelings, so if you’re intending to make some rooms ‘dog free zones’ and using baby gates then start doing this well before your baby is born.

Now is also a good time to get Rover used to staying in a safe place with his bed and tasty chew for short periods of time every day.

There will be times when you’ll be busy with the baby, so training Rover how to be happy on his own for a short time is going to help him cope with the changes ahead.

Members of your family or health workers may put pressure on you to part with your dog thinking they are making life easier for you. If your dog is friendly with people then you should be able to introduce your new baby to the family dog quite happily.

Involve your dog in as much family life as possible so he feels included and his nose is not put out.

``

Think about how you can make dog walking as easy as possible - a sling might be easier than a pram as it leaves you with your hands free to hold the dogs’ lead.

``

Dogs love cuddly toys but can find it tricky to differentiate between their toys and the baby’s, so keep the dogs toys separate and perhaps smear a tiny blob of peanut butter on them.

``

Being a new parent is time consuming, but always make time to stroke or groom your dog, so they have your undivided attention away from the kids

The Golden Rules ``

Never leave your dog alone with your child

``

Never punish or shout at your dog for approaching your baby

``

Always praise your dog for behaving gently with your baby/child

``

Always keep your child well away from your dog’s food bowl

``

Never let your child interrupt his sleep or take away his toys

``

Never let your child shout in your dog’s face or pull his tail

For more information or to download a copy of the ‘New Baby’ factsheet, please visit www.dogstrust.org.uk.

Radley College is an independent boarding school for boys aged 13 to 18.

The Foundation Award at 11+, 13+ and 16+ are for boys currently in state education with academic potential and interest in music, art, drama or sport.

The award provides financial support of up to 100% of full fees for two initial years at preparatory school and then for a further five years at Radley.

Radley College FOUNDATION AWARDS AT

11+, 13+ & 16+

Entry is through assessment in December 2013.

Applications close on 1 November 2013.

Sample papers are on the website.

For details: The Registrar, Radley College, Abingdon OX14 2HR Tel: 01235 543174

www.radley.org.uk

Oxfordshire

July / August 2013

9

Ed’s Reading Room

Foodies festival

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Summer book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online from Ed’s Reading Room at www.edontheweb.com.

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

AGES 5-7 YEARS Monty Wins the Cup

by Jake Sparks (Egmont £4.99)

AGES 7 YEARS PLUS My Funny Family on Holiday

by Chris Higgins (Hodder £4.99)

The Abominators

by J L Smith (Little, Brown £4.99)

The Mystery of Wickworth Manor

by Elen Caldecott (Bloomsbury £5.99)

WIN tickets to Foodies Festival Oxford!

Foodies Festival Oxford – South Parks – Saturday 24, Sunday 25 and Monday 26 August 2013 www.foodiesfestival.com

ED SAYS: ‘Danny’s birthday begins with an amazing surprise. He receives a shiny silver key for his very own racing car – a car that runs on chocolate milkshake! Danny is very excited and enters Monty in the Tooting Wallop Road Race. Although a shadow is cast over the race when the sneering Hugo de Horrible arrives on the scene, Danny is determined to show what Monty can do. ‘ This is a delightful story for young readers. It is an exciting adventure with colourful characters complemented by fantastic illustrations throughout.’

ED SAYS: ‘Hooray! It’s holiday time and Mattie’s family are going to Cornwall. As usual Mattie has lots of things on her Worry List – worst of all, what if they forgot somebody?

When they arrive at Sunset Farm there so many new things to see and do.

Camping is great fun and when it gets dark after the barbecue on the beach, it is absolutely magical sitting by the fire under the night sky. But who is Mattie’s new friend? And what is the story behind the old photograph?

‘This story about Mattie’s family holiday is beautifully told. It can be enjoyed by boys and girls alike, on their own or reading together.’

ED SAYS: ‘Curtis and Paige are two very different people who are thrown together on a school trip. They are supposed to be mixing with all the other children while canoeing, climbing and taking part in Art projects. However, when they find an old painting at the top of Wickworth Manor, they become involved in solving a mystery from years ago to do with the family at the manor. Could dreadful deeds to do with the slave trade have taken place? And can Curtis and Paige solve the mystery using their own different methods?

ED SAYS: ‘The Abominators are top of the class for mischief. When Cecil Trumpington-Potts starts Grimely East there is nothing more he would like than to be in the gang. But they have other ideas – they don’t want to be friends with someone they regard as a namby-pamby toff. They set Cecil three tasks that they think he has no chance whatsoever of doing. But what if Cecil succeeded? Would they have to let him become a member of the gang?

‘This is a hilarious story that will have boys and girls laughing out loud at Cecil’s attempts to be cool enough to be one of the Abominators. The book is packed full of brilliant illustrations.’

‘This is a brilliantly written book. There is an underlying serious tone but the story reads as a fun, action-packed adventure.’

www.oxfordfamilyphotography.com

The party lasts 2 h o u r s and includes: ! Mini makeover ! Photo shoot ! ! Fashion props ! Party food and drinks ! Dance music PLUS: ! Every guest receives a complimentary print ! Birthday child receives a CD with ALL their portrait photos ! Options for parents to join in the photo shoot at the end of the party ! Personal online photo gallery

ired for Budding Young Actors Requ New TV & Film Classes

School are looking for Youngstar TV & Film Acting 7 - 18, budding young actors age to join our highly successful, Schools in exciting new TV & Film Acting

Oxford, Abingdon, Kidlington

As Seen on

10

The Children’s Cookery Theatre, run by Sophie Grigson’s Cookery School, will ensure children get involved and have the opportunity to learn more about eating and cooking healthy food with hands-on daily classes.

The extensive Producers’ Market sells a vast array of artisan produce including Guild of Fine Food award-winning British produce, and on Street Food Avenue visitors will find

Other features include a Drinks Theatre, Cocktail Theatre, Wine Village and Homeware Village, a City Beach and entertainment stage.

This year’s new dining and VIP area includes pop-up versions of top local restaurants and champagne pagodas, whilst the countryside-themed bar area focuses on British cider and ale.

Tickets are available from www.foodiesfestival.com or by calling 0844 995 1111.

All children aged 12 and under go free to all Foodies Festivals when accompanied by an adult.

Opening times: Saturday 24 August 10am until 7pm Sunday 25 August 11am until 7pm Monday 26 August 11am until 7pm For your chance to win, answer to following question: Who is the Chefs’ Theatre compere for Foodies Festival Oxford? *a set of tickets = x5 day tickets worth £12 each

Foodies Festival

with top chefs Oxford South Park

1 & 4 Day Summer Holiday Courses In Oxford & Kidlington now available

BOOK 2FOr1

ticKetS quote FoXF241

0844 995 1111 www.foodiesfestival.com

& Wantage

Tel: 01235 539772

info@youngstaroxford.tv

01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Sweet-toothed foodies will enjoy the new Cake and Bake Theatre incorporating a ‘bake-along’ with members of the audience invited to participate. This year, there’s also a new Chocolate Theatre and BBQ Arena both featuring classes and demonstrations.

a huge selection of ready-to-eat hot and cold food from around the globe.

August 24, 25 & 26

A unique birthday party experience for teens and older children!

Call or email to book a Free Trial Today

We’ve got 5 sets* of family tickets to give away for Foodies Festival at Oxford South Parks this August. Watch top chefs including Gary Jones, Alex MacKay, Sophie Grigson, Michael North, Katie and Giancarlo Caldesi, Max Mason, Andrew Kojima who will cook their signature dishes live in the Chefs’ Theatre and explain how amateur cooks can prepare the same dishes at home. The theatre will be compered by food writer and Daily Telegraph columnist Xanthe Clay, who will also host food and wine matching demos each day.

www.youngstaroxford.tv

Oxfordshire

July / August 2013

11

Summer Activities Script writing & Robinson Crusoe!

Choose from a range of workshops for all ages including the Script Workout, at Magdalen College, Big School on 29 July and Ahoy There on 5-9 August at the Top Room at the playhouse, inspired by Treasure Island and Robinson Crusoe for 8-12’s.

To book contact the Ticket Office on 01865 305305 or online at oxfordplayhouse.com.

Fancy being a TV & filmstar?

Look no further!

‘A magical show... perfect’ Nottingham Post

Summer swim schedule for babies

Be a filmstar this summer with Youngstar TV and film acting school workshops. Providing one and four day courses in Oxford and Kidlington, for ages 7-18. Book early for limited places available.

Water Babies swimming lessons will be running from 5 August for 4 weeks. New joiners Welcome to various locations; Maplewood School, High Wycombe, The Elcot Park Hotel, Newbury and DW Sport, Kassam Stadium, Oxford.

Call now on 01235 539772 and visit youngstaroxford.tv.

Call 01869 325499 or email chasethatfishy@ waterbabies.co.uk for more details.

Written by

Mellie Buse and Jan Page

Laser Gaming / High Ropes Motor engines, cookery and sport perhaps?

Pirate and princess parties offer funky fun!

Try tree-top adventures!

This summer TRAX Motor Project is offering action packed activity days for young people aged 8+.

Each day there is riding and other activities including mechanics, archery, cooking and more. All safety equipment is provided. Lunch and refreshments are included in the price. Activity days start from £35. Discounts are available for groups and siblings.

Activities are 10am till 3pm.

MAD Academy is running fab holiday classes in Bicester and Oxford, each with a special theme, plus lots of music, dancing and games! Why not try:

Visit Culham Adventure Park for exhilarating adventure days with Rope Bridges, Tarzan Swings, Zip Slides, set high in the trees in a 50 acre woodland, Furze Brake Woodland Park, in Culham near Abingdon. Or try Lasergaming, Tree Climbing, Crate Stacking, Orienteering. Save £5 off recreational ropes quoting code FMJUNE at highropesoxford.com.

To find out more call 01865-243077, e-mail helen@ traxonline.co.uk or see: www.trax.org.uk

To find out more contact Sophie on 01869 369502, e: sophie.hill@madacademy.com or madacademy.com.

Teddy Bear’s Picnic party and bring your teddy bears!

On 25 July in Bicester and 27 July in Oxford. Or the MADSport party – for sporting fun and games on 1 August in Bicester and 2 August in Oxford. Pirates and princesses party – dress up as a pirate or princess! On 8 August in Bicester and 9 August in Oxford.

Unleash your thespian skills on stage…!

Recreate Aladdin at the theatre

For all budding actors, dancers and singers, Stagecoach Theatre Arts centres across Oxfordshire are holding top notch summer shows. The venues are top theatres with all the lights, colour and buzz of a full scale production. With well-known musicals and specially written scripts, everyone will have an exciting and involving week. The shows are great for discovering theatre, new challenges and boosting confidence.

Let your 4- 8 year olds join Aladdin, Jasmine and The Genie on a five day adventure based on the classic children’s story “Aladdin”. With a team of professionals, children will combine live music, dance, improvisation and costumes into a mini performance on the final day. Courses will encourage creativity, confidence, communication and fun! Call 0845 400 4000, email enquiries@perform.org.uk or visit Perform. org.uk.

Locations include Headington, Thame, Banbury and Abingdon for Fiddler on the Roof and Merlin & the Mystical Unicorn. For a full range of information including dates - go to the Stagecoach website at stagecoach.co.uk.

On 12 –16 August at West Oxford Community Centre, 10-2pm, £145. EARLY BIRD OFFER: 10% off to Families readers. 25% off for siblings attending at the same venue.

Summer village at Pegasus Filled with entertaining activities from puppetry and street dance, urban art and dance to creating a show in a week. Courses cost from as little as £1, from 24 July - 9 August. Children can try puppetry & performance, street dance, urban art, create a play in a week and much more. Session times vary and full details can be found at the Pegasus theatre website

First ever Gr andp in my Pocket a Fistrsagt eevsherowGr! andp in my Pocket a stage show!

Thu 22 – Sun 25 August www.atgtickets.com/oxford 0844 871 3020

(fees apply)

Nottingham Playhouse

(fees apply)

at: pegasustheatre.org.uk/classes-courses/.

Gym or swim anyone?

Children’s swimming lessons will be held during the first 4 weeks of the summer holidays at D W Sports Kassam, Wendlebury, Minster Lovell and Steventon.

Contact Jane at info@janebrooksgymandswm.com or call 01865 841409/07855324417 or visit janebrooksgymandswim.com.

A surprise at every corner...

Wild Nights - let you get closer to wildlife!

Have a guided tour of Cotswold Wildlife Park after hours from 7 – 9pm on 3 and 10 August, with animal Keepers and ask questions and watch animals being fed. Children must be supervised by an adult at all times. Adults £25 children £20. Season ticket holders: adults £20, children £15.

A limited number of tickets will go on sale online from 17th June at: cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk/whatson/events.htm. Or experience a Cotswold Falconry flying display, happening every weekend in the summer holidays.

12

01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Saltbox Music from birth up!

Get your children in to Percussion! Musical Games!

Props and Puppets! With Salt Box Music Jamborees for 0-7 year olds: 30 Jul - 10-10.45am @ Madley Park Hall, Witney 7 Aug - 10-10.45am @ The Seacourt Hall, Botley, Oxford For Salt Box Music Jamborees for 0-18 months 30 Jul - 11-11.30am @ Madley Park Hall, Witney All classes £5 per child £2.50 each sibling.

Booking Essential! Call 01993 704207 or go to saltboxmusic.co.uk.

A summer of fun and magic is planned at The Story Museum, with ‘spellbinding’ events for adults and children. The Whispering Road by seriouskitchen (21 June) brings a compelling Scandinavian folk tale to life with music and storytelling. Families will visit every nook and cranny of The Story Museum’s dilapidated building, which becomes Wonderland with Teatro Vivo (3-7 July). On Alice’s Day (6 July) the building and courtyard will overflow with games, puzzles and storytelling. Tucked In will bring storytelling inThe Golden Cowpat (13 July). And Nick Cope returns with kiddie’s favourite music sessions.

Visit the www.storymuseum.org.uk/ for details.

Oxfordshire

July / August 2013

13

Importance of sunshine

Save on summer fun with childcare vouchers by Pascale Gravell

Sunshine, Vitamin D and tired tots

Cash-strapped parents are always looking for ways to make tight household budgets stretch further, and with summer holidays on the horizon there is even more reason to get thinking.

By Joanna Parry

Our understanding of the sunshine vitamin has improved in recent years, as we have become aware that exposure to natural sunlight can affect our levels, and with too little sun we are in danger of becoming deficient. We are all keen to slap the sunscreen on our children and to keep them out of the sun when it is at its highest which is of course important, but children do need some sun. A lack of Vitamin D is not only responsible for poor bone health but a new study has found a strong correlation between excessive daytime sleepiness and Vitamin D. In fact, researchers found that for most participants in the study, sleepiness increased as blood levels of vitamin D decreased.

So, if you or your little one suffers from excessive daytime sleepiness, it may be time to take action. According to The Department of Health, Vitamin D deficiency is a concern, particularly for at-risk groups such as pregnant women, infants and young children. The Department advises that daily Vitamin D supplements should be taken by all pregnant and breast-feeding women and children under five, due to the fact that breast milk, on average, contains only 10% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin D. Other recent studies show that more vitamin D during infancy, whether this is gained through supplements or natural sunshine, can help reduce the risk of major health concerns later on in life.

More parents now realise their childcare vouchers – which many people used to think were just for nursery fees – are actually a brilliantly flexible money-saving option all year long. Childcare vouchers are a tax-free salary sacrifice offered by employers to help ease childcare costs for staff who are also parents.

Skin is in for summer!

Julie Mutton at Bare UK, in Oxford has provided us with more useful tips for great skin, to ensure it looks good whatever the weather. It’s important to remember, that when you feel good, so do your children so don’t forget those regular beauty regimes!

14

01993 815966 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Top tips to bring your skin out of hibernation: •

Invest in a dry skin body brush. Skin brushing not only removes dry dead skin cells to reveal fresher skin it boosts the immune system and makes you feel invigorated.

•

Water Water Water… We all know this but many of us still aren’t drinking 8 glasses of water a day that’s crucial to keeping skin tip-top.

•

•

•

In spring and summer months ensure your moisturiser has at least a factor 15 to protect your skin and top up with a high sunscreen regularly.

Not just for the winter: Vitamin C is the key to the production of collagen a protein that helps skin cell renewal, so make sure you are eating a lot of fruit and veg or take a C supplement that is gentle on the digestive system.

This summer invest in a facial treatment that will make a difference. IPL (Intense Pulse Light) facial rejuvenation regenerates the collagen & elastin cells to improve your complexion, skin texture and tension. IPL banishes pigmentation & wrinkles all in one treatment.

For further details on this and other beauty treatments visit www.bareuk.co.uk.

And far from being just a bonus for paying nursery fees, they can actually be used for a huge range of childcare options for children all the way up to 15. In these difficult times, it’s a saving which UK mums and dads are grasping gratefully.

Britain’s biggest dedicated childcare voucher provider, Computershare Voucher Services (CVS), say they’ve spotted smarter parents storing up vouchers outside of the school term. Research carried out by CVS of the over 100,000 working parents who use its vouchers shows parents now using them much more in the summer. Only a third of parents did not realise they could use their childcare vouchers for activities outside traditional childcare. These include holiday camps, activity clubs and music lessons. Many popular adventure holidays also accept childcare vouchers including organisations like PGL and Camp Beaumont. It’s always worth asking. “Childcare vouchers are far more versatile than some parents realise,” explains Julian Foster, managing director of CVS. “This means lots of families may be missing out on vital savings by failing to take advantage of their many uses.” He added: “The summer holidays can be a particularly expensive time for parents, as paying for additional childcare and keeping the kids entertained can soon mount up. “If you’re using registered care then ask if they accept childcare vouchers and start making those savings.”

Childcare vouchers are completely free of tax and National Insurance. Depending on individual circumstances, childcare vouchers can bring savings of up to £1,866 per family every year. To use childcare vouchers, a parent must work for an employer who offers a scheme.

CVS is the UK’s largest dedicated childcare voucher provider.

For more information visit www. computersharevoucherservices.com.

Summer

Activity Days Ages 8 +

July 29th – Aug 29th 10am – 3pm Prices starting from £35

Mud Buggies Mechanics Team Building Quad Bikes Archery Go-Karts Cooking Art Lunch and refreshments included

www.trax.org.uk

To find out more or to book call: 01865-243077 or email: helen@traxonline.co.uk

Oxfordshire

July / August 2013

15

Summer Activity Camps

What’s on July / August 2013

If you’re still deciding what activities your children will be doing this summer, look no further as here are some of Oxford’s best activity camps to help you decide:

THEATRE & MUSIC

Serious4SPORT

Super Camps

For children aged between 4-11, this summer camp will enable kids to learn lots of new and exciting sports and to challenge their coaches, for a chance to win fantastic prizes! Serious4SPORT camps will be held at Tugwell playing field, Lark Hill, Wantage, offering half days at £10, 9-3pm at £15 and full days £20.

Discounts given for booking a full week.

Camp starts 29 July until 30 August.

Super Camps know just what it takes to run a fun, action-packed and stimulating activity camp, for 4-14 year-olds. OFSTED registered, with all staff CRB cleared, camps run in Burford, 29 July-23 August, Headington, 29 July-30 Wallingford, 29 July-16 August, Thame, 22 July-23 August & Radley Nr Abingdon 15 July-23 August.

To book go to serious4sport.co.uk.

Energizers Energizers offers your children the opportunity to develop their ABC of activity – Agility, Balance and Coordination – through the Energizers Award Scheme which is tiered so children of all levels can participate. Each class is taught by enthusiastic, qualified coaches and P.E. teachers, providing your children with high quality coaching which is fun.

Visit primeenergy.org.

The Bushcraft Company Escape to the wild and discover a world where children can climb trees, cook from a campfire, swim and play games. The Bushcraft Company camps are great for keeping children active and entertained and filled with a range of team-based activities; perfect for developing new friendships and experiencing new things in a safe, controlled environment. For 7-15’s lasting for 2, 3 or 5 days, all camps take place at the Woodland Centre Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire.

For latest offers visit: supercamps.co.uk.

FunTech Technology and fun are at the core of all FunTech camps; whether your child is from seven to sixteen, FunTech has a camp to fire their imagination. Children can design the ultimate robot and learn valuable ICT and programming skills. Or choose from a series of fun and creative games that teach touch-typing skills.

Visit funtech.co.uk.

Camp Energy Camp Energy is set on a 70 acre parkland site in the heart of Oxford, where children get to participate in a huge variety of different games and activities including sports, martial arts, Kayaking, bush craft and more, and even free swimming lessons for the 4-7 years olds. campenergy.com.

Visit thebushcraftcompany.com.

NEW THEATRE George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG

Newtheatreoxford.org.uk

16 May. English Youth Ballet Auditions An exciting opportunity for 100 boys and girls aged 8-18 to perform in critically acclaimed full-length ballet Swan Lake at the New Theatre this September.

28 May-1Jun. The Sound of Music

Please visit

www.Serious4Sport.co.uk or call 07799004711 or 07826855723 for more details

OXFORD T: 01865 326746 E: oxford@monkeymusic.co.uk

16

Meet head-gardener Little Sunshine and learning gardener Little Rainfall in their magical Japanese garden. Blending Japanese folklore with traditional music and dance. Age 4+

JACQUELINE DU PRÉ MUSIC BUILDING St Hilda’s College, Oxford, OX4 1DY

13 Jun. Three Phantoms

Cello - Led by Rozzy introducing music made by different instruments, fun and close-up. Under 5s: 9:30am & 10:30am. Over 5s: 11:30am

From Andrew Lloyd Webber’s eponymous musical, this is set to haunt, host and perform in a unique event where musical theatre meets the Rat Pack!

19 May. Cushion Concert Double Bass with Tabla and Sitar.

2 Jun. Cushion Concert

PEGASUS THEATRE

14-15 Jun. Funday Workshop

Magdalen Road Oxford OX4 1RE

Enjoy music, song and breath taking dance routines.

pegasustheatre.org.uk

18-19 Jun. Strictly Confidential

7-11 May. Brookes Festival at Pegasus

Following the continued success of BBC One’s ratingswinning Strictly Come Dancing, Strictly Confidential, will give theatre audiences the chance to get personal with some of the stars of the show.

Oxford Brookes University invite you to experience creativity in their week-long festival. Staff and students showcase work through workshops, readings, installations, lectures and performances.

2-6 Jul. The Pirates of Penzance

8-9 Jun. Cinderella Green the Recycling Queen

A show by Gilbert & Sullivan; pure, uncomplicated fun. A young man bound by an overactive sense of duty, a pirate king, a beautiful young girl, a majorgeneral and policemen. Performed by the Scottish Opera and D’Oyly Carte Opera Company.

9–13 Jul. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs.

Puppeteer Emma Boor brings a well-loved tale with an environmentally friendly twist: of Rubbish, Recycling and Romance with sing-a-long songs and a onewoman junk band. Ages 4+.

8-9 Jun. Cinderalla Green workshop

8-11 May. The Wizard of Oz

6 Jul. From Where I’m Standing

Oxfordshire Youth Music Theatre presents a magical journey to the land of Oz! Wicked witches, powerful sorcerers, flying monkeys are joined by Dorothy, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion in this timeless tale of self-discovery.

Inspired by: the human need to communicate.

Increasingly overloaded with digital chatter in our lives, what happens when people have no choice but to really speak out. An explosion of exciting and intriguing theatre. For under 18’s.

28-29 May. The Firework-Maker’s Daughter

MILL ARTS THEATRE

Discover this gripping tale of friendship, determination and adventure that will be an explosive theatrical experience, perfect for a half-term holiday treat.

themillartscentre.co.uk/

CORNERSTONE ARTS CENTRE

The far Eastern adventure is a fantasy for deaf and hearing children, providing artistic opportunities for creative work of deaf artists. It’s visually exciting and uses traditional Japanese images. Ages 3-7.

26 May. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus Go along for another instalment of the pigeon party!

Little will love the brightly coloured set and the fun story. Ages 3+.

30 May. The Incredible Book Eating Boy A brilliant and unique performance about a little boy called Henry, who loves books. So much so that he starts eating them.

Woodstock and surrounding areas.

Piano lessons for children.

Classical guitar for children & adults, all grades.

Call Robert on 07577202726 or email: musictutorials@live.co.uk

28-29 Jun. Young bands showcase

Oxfordplayhouse.com

Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LW

Music Tuition

Come before the show and transform trash into magical eco-instruments.

The sixth OCM Open and an eclectic mix of some of the best new music in the region. OCM and Pegasus have put together a showcase of bands and artists for a gig of premier new music.

THE OXFORD PLAYHOUSE

THE NORTH WALL

Advertise in Families Oxfordshire call 01993 815966 or email editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

8 Jun. Little Sunshine Little Rainfall

st-hildas.ox.ac.uk

Cornerstone-arts.org

Award winning music classes for babies & young children

thenorthwall.com

Based on the life of Maria von Trapp it tells the story of a high-spirited au-pair sent to serve as governess for the seven children. Their beloved Austria has been invaded by the Nazis and the whole family must escape immediately.

25 Station Road, Didcot, oxon, OX11 7NE

Educational Sports Coaching for Children aged 18months-7years

South Parade, Oxford OX2 7NN

Laser gaming

Spiceball Park, Banbury OX16 5QE

1 Jun. The Waving Cat of Japan

30 May. The Wind in the Willows A vibrant musical giving everyone the chance to take part. Children play as rabbits, ducks and weasels while the audience sings songs. Ages 5-9. 11.30 & 12.30pm.

MUSEUMS & GALLERIES THE STORY MUSEUM Rochester House, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP

storymuseum.org.uk

Oxfordshire

For times and prices, please visit venue websites

July / August 2013

17

What’s on July / August 2013 cogges.org.uk

11 May & 8 Jun. Nick Cope’s Songbook Monkeys, bears, socks and mud! Nick Cope sings about everything children are really interested in and you’re invited to join in! Early years.

25 May & 22 Jun. Family printing workshops Learn how to print by hand with this two-hour workshop led by Dr Paul Nash, at the Bodleian Library.

Featuring a short talk and the chance to print using historic printing presses.

Ages 8+. 2-4pm.

PITT RIVERS MUSEUM Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3PW

prm.ox.ac.uk

May-Jun. In Reverse: Where the Future Meets the Past Goldsmithing, silversmithing, metalwork and jewellery students from the Royal College of Art have journeyed back into the real and imagined histories of chosen objects.

From beards for women to 3D printed fish traps.

1-31 May. Music and Light This is a chance to mingle in the museum with intriguing individuals and enthralling exhibits. The lights will be low to explore by torchlight, while a musical soundscape will bring the Museum’s sounds to life. Children accompanied by an adult. 7-10pm.

30 May-1 Jun. Tipi Tales Explore the American Great Plains with Native American crafts and activities. 1-4pm.

Free Family Friendly Fun

16 May. Museums at Night

5 May. Alice in Wonderland

Woodstock, Park Street Woodstock OX20 1PA

Join in this free event looking at nocturnal creatures, beasts and creepy crawlies and meet Chrissey’s Owls. 5-7pm.

Find a rainbow of colours in the museum and take some home.

2-4pm.

6 Jul. Flibbety Flub Celebrate Alice Day by creating nonsense art inspired by the collection. 1-4pm.

11 Jul. Shadow Puppets Make a puppet and watch a show.

Ages 5+. 2-4pm.

44-46 OxfordCastle, Oxford, OX1 1AY

oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk

25 May- 2 Jun. King of the Castle

RIVER AND ROWING MUSEUM Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames RG9 1BF

rrm.co.uk

NURSERY

28 May. On Swan Lake

is on the move…

Make a river bank piggy bank using card and cardboard tubes and hear the story of how Princess Odile was turned into a swan. Booking required.

Ages 4-7.

Discover what’s in the Marsh Meadow ponds to find out about mini-monsters and create your own monster masterpiece. Booking required. Ages 9-13. 10.30-12.30pm.

30 May. Icebergs and Icicles

OPENING 2 SEPTEMBER 2013 Little Willows, the large, newly designed Nursery School for Cranford House Specially tailored curriculum Extra-curricular programme of clubs & activities after school and during holidays For boys and girls from age 2 upwards 8am – 6pm throughout the year Open Morning 21September 10am–12pm Email: admissions@cranfordhouse.net Tel : 01491 651218

For Morris Motors at Cowley Works the Morris Register Rally. See Morris cars of all ages and anyone with a Morris car welcome! Free parking and children’s play area.

26 May. Teddy bear day

DIARY DATES & EVENTS Church Lane, Witney OX28 3LA

29 May. Children’s Tour

25-27 May. The Sealed Knot Society

Enjoy a showcase of work by local artists as part of Oxfordshire’s visual arts festival. Go online for more details.

Watch battle re-enactments and history come to life in the spectacular surrounds.

Organised by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming) offering families the chance to discover the story behind food and the vital role farmers play. Demonstrations, talks and displays. 10-5.00pm.

12-22 Jun. Outdoor Theatre

EARTH TRUST

Blenheim Palace hosts the Hinksey Sculling School Junior Regatta. A series of 500 metre multi-lane races on the lake for juniors aged 13 and under.

earthtrust.org.uk

The Oxford Drama School presents Summer Outdoor Theatre.

Discover Forgotten Metro-Land at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre 3, 4 and 7 August Set in the beautiful Vale of Aylesbury, the special open days will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the London Underground and a forgotten part of what was once known as Metroland.

Family fun activities include rides in vintage carriages pulled by real steam trains, miniature railway rides, storytelling sessions and make-and-take craft workshops.

Children can also climb on board the red travelling Night Mail carriage which was used by the Post Office to sort and deliver post, and explore the old Quainton Road station and Museum.

Family tickets, early-bird discount, and group discounts available. Free car parking and free vintage bus service from Aylesbury Vale Parkway station on 3 and 4 August. Booking: www.ltmuseum.co.uk or phone 0207 565 7298.

15 Jun. Junior Sculling Regatta

16 May. Bats at Wallingford Castle Meadows

MUSEUM OF OXFORD

Walk with a local bat expert to find out more about bats.

oxford.gov.uk/museumofoxford

£5/£2 8.30-10.30pm.

29-30 May. Ancient Artists

Explore the woods, make shelters, learn how to make a fire. Lunch included.

Oxford Town Hall, St Aldates, Oxford

Try your hand at Roman crafts, handle objects, make a mosaic and help create a mosaic for Tamesibugus the Roman potters’ house. Free or donations £1.

1-4pm.

25, 28, 29, 30 May. Gallery Trails Explore with Oxford Town Hall Family Trail and galleries. Find, draw and ask lots of questions! Souvenir prizes for successful explorers. £1.50. 10-5pm.

£20/£15. 10am-4pm.

Free for any child bringing a teddy bear. Vintage Bus Rides. Both Museums open with café, free parking and children’s play area.

COGGES MANOR FARM

blenheimpalace.com

29 May. Family Bushcraft Earth Trust Centre

SESSIONS

waterperrygardens.co.uk

Woodstock OX20 1PP

£5/£2. 10-12 noon.

TAS

Waterperry, Nr wheatley, Oxford, OX33 1JZ

Waddesdon.org.uk/

Stroll around the lake and learn about migrating birds.

FRETEER

12 May. Centenary event

WATERPERRY GARDENS

BLENHEIM PALACE

18 May. Birds at Thrupp Lake, Radley

oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk

See four beautiful village gardens in Great Rollright, with live music, children’s dressing-up and surprises and teas at the Village Hall. In aid of the Chipping Norton Theatre. £5. Children free. 2-6pm.

Bicester Road, Aylesbury, HP18 0JH

After

Station Yard, Long Hanborough, OX29 8LA

30 Jun. Open Gardens

WADDESDON MANOR

Earth Trust Centre, Little Wittenham

This summer, don’t miss

Wallingford Ruby Club host’s this family-friendly musical festival, showing great musical talent from across the country. Visit www. wallingfordrugbyclub.com/.

1-31 May. Artweeks

9 Jun. Open Farm Sunday

29 May. Monsters from the Deep

21-22 Jun. Rugfest 2013

Family quests around the grounds, themed arts and crafts, tours and a ‘Sword in the Stone’ challenge. Last tour 4.20pm. 10-5.30pm.

A guided tour of the ground floor of the, before it opens to the public. Booking required.

10.30-12.30pm.

OXFORD BUS & MORRIS MOTORS MUSEUMS

13 Jun. I can see a rainbow

OXFORD CASTLE UNLOCKED

Costumed processions, symbolic drama, traditional dances and fire ceremonies, celebrating nature’s bounty. 50 photographs of regional rituals performed in England.

Pitt Stops

Make a mask and pick out facial expressions at this under 5’s event.

2-4pm.

A magical production of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale when a girl named Alice falls down a rabbit hole into a fantasy world populated by peculiar creatures. 3pm.

Ages 0-16.

27 Apr-23 Jun. Mummers, Maypoles & Milkmaids exhibition

Every Sunday for children with an adult, for activity backpacks, sorting boxes, trails, and craft activities for under 5’s. 2-4pm.

9 May. Happy face, sad face

18

oxfordshire.gov.uk/ oxfordshiremuseum

Crafts, cookery and adventure play.

See a Shetland pony, Pygmy goats, Indian Runner ducks and more.

Outdoor games and soft play area.

11–12pm/12.30pm–1.30pm.

Discover wildlife of the North Pole with lots of fun activities. Add to the Arctic frieze; make a mask, icy experiments and more. FREE with admission. 10.30-4.00pm.

On the first Saturday of the month explore the museum, discover something new and make something super to take home. Free. Ages 5+.

1-4pm.

27-31 May. Kids Food Club

THE OXFORDSHIRE MUSEUM

demonstrations, stalls, and dance.

10-4pm.

21 May. House & Garden Fair Raise funds for SeeSaw Charity and have a splendid time at Fallowfields Hotel, Kingston Bagpuize. www. seesawsummerfair.org.uk. £3. 10.303.30pm.

9 Jun. Banbury & District Show

to join in the fun call

01869 325 499

Advertise in Families Oxfordshire call 01993 815966 or email editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

693_oxford_advert_01.indd 1

waterbabies.co.uk

Free family fun with entertainment for everyone at Spiceball Park. It’s A Knockout, funfair, sideshows, Oxfordshire

24/08/2012 16:06

July / August 2013

19

Maths & English tuition Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to children aged 5-14, designed to improve knowledge, confidence and enjoyment of learning. tries new things with relish. She counts the days until she can come back here!”

Explore Parent.

Book your free trial session today to find out how Explore Learning can help your child to gain confidence, enthusiasm and new skills.

HILDCARE

USE THEM AT EXPLORE!

VO

UCHERS

?

As members, children work with tutors who are great role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. The individual focus allows children to work at their own pace – whether they are finding school tricky or are top of the class!

“The hesitancy and lack of confidence that held her back is gone. Now she

C

Explore helps children make fantastic academic progress, in addition the vibrant atmosphere keeps them engaged and focussed enabling them to have fun while they learn.

01865 595 509

Inside Sainsbury’s, Oxford www.explorelearning.co.uk/oxford

Families Oxfordshire.indd 1

Advertise in Families Oxfordshire call 01993 815966 or email editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

01/08/2012 14:55

Oxfordshire