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IN THIS ISSUE Christmas event guide The secret lives of 4 & 5 year olds at school Local party ideas Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on in November & December Issue 23 November/ December 2017 familiesonline.co.uk

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THE MOST EPIC

PARTY AROUND! At Absolutely Karting, children as young as 8 can experience an adrenaline pumping and thrill seeking ultimate driving experience!

Call 0300 303 to book book Call 08450 262 3548 466 to www.absolutely-karting.co.uk

Real Engines. Real Noise. Real Racing Ages: 8-13yrs. Minimum height: 1.3m.

Absolutely Karting Maidenhead Absolutely Karting Basingstoke The Arena, Stafferton Way, Maidenhead, SL6 1AY Kingsland Business Park, Wade Road, Basingstoke RG24 8QL

The Vyne This Christmas join our builders 13m above ground level as they rescue a Tudor roof. When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places in London and the South East such as The Vyne, Sandham Memorial Chapel and The Chase for ever, for everyone.

nationaltrust.org.uk/the-vyne

ÂŠ National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography ÂŠ National Trust Images\Karen Legg.

2 Families Hampshire North

#nationaltrust

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Contents November/December Hampshire North

Managing Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk Next issue January/ February 2018 Booking deadline 1 December 2017 Printed By Holbrooks Cover image © Depositphotos Families Hampshire North is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire North are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Hampshire North. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Hampshire North; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

News & views

Parties

Local party ideas

Bullying

The secret lives of 4 & 5 year olds at school

10.

Christmas Special

A feature of some of the best local events to enjoy this festive season.

14.

What’s on

A round up of all the latest local news.

Should you invite the whole class to a party?

Ideas for your child’s next birthday party with local providers and venues to hire.

What are the signs to look out for?

Claire Winter talks to Dr Elizabeth Kilbet about what she learnt whilst filming the series.

Advertise your business with us from as little as £31.20 per month and reach over 38,000 parents in North Hampshire 6 issues per year delivered directly to parents and carers in Andover, Basingstoke, Hook, Fleet, Bordon and surrouding areas. To feature in our Jan/Feb early years special, email: editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk or call 07789 882467. Book by 1 December. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Hampshire North 3

News & Views

A home from home with Chilly Powder Brain Tumour Research enlist artist Caroline Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… or both? Francesca, Paul and their three Copland to design their children live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine Christmas cards for 2017 traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card for 2017. Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year. The Hope Tree cards will join other festive favourites in the charity’s range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital brain tumour research. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer. Order via www. braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/ christmas-cards.

Jubilee Cadets Woodland Holiday Club, Padworth, Berks Open during independent and state school holidays: weekdays between Monday 18th - Friday 22nd December, and Tuesday 2nd - Friday 5th January 8am-6pm. Jubilee Cadets provides 5-11 year olds with plenty of adventures and exciting activities, all in a wonderful woodland – the best way for children to spend their school holidays. Book online at www.jubileecadets. co.uk or call 0118 970 1300 4 Families Hampshire North

years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities, with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities. For many returning guests Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home. For more about Chilly Powder chalets for summer and winter visit www.chillypowder.com

New Trampoline Park to boast England’s first interactive NinjaTAG assault course North Hampshire trampoline and adventure park, Flip Out Basingstoke, will boast England’s first indoor obstacle course to use interactive wearable technology, when it opens later this year. Called NinjaTAG, the new attraction uses sensors, or TAGs, installed around the arena to communicate with wristbands allowing customers to take part in a variety of games and challenges. The high-tech course offers active and interactive fun for ages 8+ across a multi-level arena, where up to 70 participants can compete with friends to try and beat their best scores. Located within Festival Place Shopping Centre, Flip Out Basingstoke is more than just a trampoline park, boasting 30ft high cyber towers, 25ft high super slides, battle beams, climbing walls, a wipeout zone, laser maze and more. Visit www.flipout.co.uk for full details.

Jubilee Cadets - the school holiday club for all budding woodland warriors With ever-increasing distractions from the digital world and fewer opportunities for the freedom to play in the same way, it’s more important than ever for children today to enjoy such play in the natural world. Jubilee Cadets is a holiday club for primary school aged children with a difference, promising fun-fuelled adventures on a daily basis. Set in beautiful woodland in Padworth and run by Bella and her caring team, it gives children the opportunity to interact with each other in the natural environment; to run, jump, climb and make their own decisions. Jubilee Cadets is unique in that it opens across both state and independent school holidays from Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm (full or half day sessions available). Jubilee Cadets is Ofsted registered and accepts childcare vouchers. For more information, visit www.jubileecadets.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Little Play Town is a fun and educational play facility for children aged 7 and under

Personalised Christmas Decorations Angela from Headley, on the Surrey/Hampshire border, has turned her passion for all things creative into a business providing gorgeous personalised Christmas decorations. As Angela says “I started out just making them for my family, and then I got more and more requests so I set up a Facebook page and it has just expanded from there!”. Angela offers a range of Christmas decorations - stockings, hearts, reindeers, fairies and many more. They can be personalised with a name or a longer inscription such as “Tom’s First Christmas”. Prices are very reasonable - only £3.50 for a reindeer and that includes personlisation. P&P is only £1. Visit www.facebook.com/deckthehall for more details.

Pioneer of the Organic Food Movement Brings Dozens of Delicious Products to the UK Family-run business and pioneer of the organic food movement, Amy’s Kitchen has been cooking up a storm since 1987. Amy’s is celebrating their 30th year in business and, whilst the company has grown into a worldwide success story, the delicious fromscratch cooking is produced the same way today as it was back in the late 80s. Amy’s meals are made with high quality ingredients, they’re easy to prepare and incredibly diverse, from soups and veggie burgers to gluten free pizzas, burritos and macaroni cheese - there’s truly something to suit every taste. We tried them and loved them!

This isn’t just your usual soft play centre, it’s all about imaginative play. Little Play Town is just what it says it is, a little play town, children can be whatever they want, from hairdressers to farmers and firefighters. Little Play Town’s the perfect place for children to express themselves, explore and have fun while learning and discovering new things. Role play can play such a huge part in children’s learning helping them to express feeling and make sense of real-life situations. Little Play Town is light and airy and laid out with beautiful clear murals, quality toys and dress up and a safe environment. The Café has high quality leather seats and has a baby tummy time play pen. The Café serves superb 100% Arabica Coffee and a large range of teas & a lovely selection of cakes, snacks and treats are on sale. It’s open 7 days a week and you can book an hour and a half play session online or chance it by just turning up. It is located on the High Street in Odiham in the lovely Fountains Mall. www.littleplaytown.co.uk

Our independent nurseries with a highly regarded reputation for outdoor learning offer exceptional care for boys and girls aged 3 months to 5 years of age.

Every recipe that Amy’s Kitchen conjures up gets tasted hundreds of times by Rachel, Andy and Head Chef, Fred. When the recipe is perfect, they cook it in their giant pots and ovens, and then they freeze it just like you might freeze leftover lasagne for another night. Amy’s meals offer something for all tastes and occasions. Amy’s Kitchen UK stockists include Sainsbury’s, Ocado, Tesco, Waitrose, Asda and Whole Foods. Visit www.amyskitchen.co.uk

Jubilee Day Nursery Full Time Rectory Road, Padworth Common, Berkshire RG7 4JD 0118 970 1600 www.jubileedaynursery.co.uk

Jubilee Gems Term Time School Road, Padworth, Berkshire, RG7 4JA 0118 983 4018 www.jubileegems.co.uk

Open 7.30am - 6.00pm Monday - Friday Families Hampshire North 5

When the whole class is invited

Children’s Parties - Should I invite the whole class? The tricky etiquette of parties for kids When you’re having a party for your child you may not want to leave anyone out. That’s a lovely thought – but is it practical to invite your child’s entire class? We discuss the pros and cons.

Age matters The best rule for kids up to five or six years old is that you should invite the same number of children as their age, plus themselves. This works well for a few reasons; parties for young children tend to involve family members such as aunts and uncles, grandparents and others. Add too many kids and your child will just be overwhelmed. It can be difficult to keep a lot of very young children entertained and also, many will come with a parent in tow, which means catering for them, too! So keep it small and manageable and make it clear to parents what expectations are; state the arrival and leaving times, say if you are happy for adults to stay and make sure you have plenty of help.

Problem child When they’re a bit older, the pressure’s suddenly on to have bigger parties. Apart from the expense and the work of catering for all those children, there may be other issues at play. Your child may have problems with one or more fellow pupils. If this is the case, it is very difficult to invite the whole class but leave out one or two children. There are ways to avoid this, however. If you have a boy who doesn’t mix much with girls, or has clashed with one person, you might consider a single-sex party. It’s also perfectly acceptable to continue to give your child a number of friends they can invite. If you suggest ten, for example, they can invite their special friends and this will keep the party manageable. Ask your child to keep the party low key to avoid hurting the feelings of others and explain that if asked, your child can say that they were only allowed a certain number.

For some birthdays, you may decide that you do indeed want the whole class to come. This works best if you are able to have the party in a hall or park, even your garden, rather than in your home. And remember, if you invite the class, it’s unthinkable to leave out just two or three children, even if they and your child do not get on. Not only would your child be hurt if their entire class was going to a party and they were not invited (which will surely happen if you start this ball rolling) but things have a way of working out for themselves. If the invited child doesn’t like yours either, they may say to their parent that they don’t want to go and the problem is solved. Whatever you decide, it’s important to make a plan and explain it carefully to your child and then stick to it. If you say their numbers are limited, don’t be emotionally blackmailed into adding more to the guest list, and if the whole class is invited make sure that’s what happens – the whole class! By Sally J. Hall Sally is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

Birthday Parties with Everyone Active Everyone Active Parties are a great way to ensure your kids and their friends have loads of fun for less than you think. Whether it’s our Swimming Party with inflatables or a Sports party with all kinds of equipment provided your kids are sure to have a great time! Some of our centres have the option to cater for yourself or let us take the strain, no hassle, no mess just fun please enquire to find out if your centre provides this facility. Parties are available at Hart, Frogmore, Mill Chase, Taro Leisure Centres and Alton Sports Centre. www.everyoneactive.com

Budget One of the main things to consider is how much you can afford. If you want to take your child to a theme park, a restaurant or a similar event, it’s going to cost a lot more than sandwiches and cake at home, so this will naturally cut down on the number of children you invite. Work out first what’s affordable and then discuss who your child would like to invite.

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www.beanstalkkidzparties.com Contact Chief Beanstalk Climber Kathryn on: 07876 792187 or 01428 608301 or email: kidzparties@btinternet.com familiesonline.co.uk

Adventure Party Room for Hire Celebrate your little one’s special occasion using our exclusive party room at Little Play Town! Hiring the room for £165 will give you exclusive access to the Party Room + free access to the play area for up to 20 children. You can bring your own food, water, juice and cake for the kids and parents to have in the private party area. There are tables and benches for the kids to sit and enjoy their food in a beautifully decorated room. For more information visit www.littleplaytown.co.uk

Check out Runway’s End Outdoor Centre If you’re looking for excitement, challenge and enjoyment then you need look no further than a visit to Runway’s End Outdoor Centre. Situated in a secluded woodland setting, just outside Farnborough, the Centre offers a great range of family-friendly activities such as after school clubs and half term Action Adventure Days. Plus, our adrenalin packed birthday parties are guaranteed fun and a whole lot different to the norm. Children can enjoy a variety of activities including caving, canoeing, archery, climbing, raft building and shooting. Our fun activities can be enjoyed by all ages from 6 and upwards, 8 and upwards for watersports. For more information visit www.hants.gov.uk/runwaysend or call 01252 344421.

Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm Birthday Parties Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm kid’s birthday party packages are extremely great value for money. You can choose from a variety of packages and additional extras include birthday cakes, party invitations, party bags, birthday lunch, activities and a great venue to hang out and enjoy everything they have to offer. Packages start from £9.95 per child. Call 01980 629438 or visit www.choldertoncharliesfarm.com for more information.

Beanstalk Kidz Parties Are an exciting children’s party company offering a wide range of top quality parties to suit your theme. They have a spectacular range of Princess, Superhero, Fairy, Mermaid, Pirate and TV/Film character entertainers and mascots available, making your child’s dreams really come true! Party Favour Boxes also available! Contact kidzparties@btinternet.com or 07876 792187 or visit the webiste www.beanstalkkidzparties.com familiesonline.co.uk

Absolute Karting - the most ‘epic’ party around! If you are looking for something different to celebrate your child’s birthday, you have found it! Absolutely Karting has a range of specially designed karts to cater for children as young as 8 years old. Birthday Parties include exclusive access of the track as well as a party room for after. Your party will be hosted by a team of professional and dedicated Race Stewards to ensure that your party is both safe and awesome! Prices start from just £25 per child and include a full safety briefing, protective race wear, party rooms, pizzas and squash, printed lap times and medals for all drivers.’ Kingsland Business Park, Wade Road, Basingstoke RG24 8QL. Tel: 0300 303 3548 or visit absolutely-karting.co.uk T&C’s apply. Ages: 8-13yrs. Minimum height: 1.3m. Minimum of 8 drivers

S A N TA C R A M b Le S Help! Santa needs you! Go on an epic adventure to rescue Santa and save Christmas! Enjoy fun activities including climbing, archery and more in a woodland setting to collect the clues and unscramble the secret code. £14.95 per child (includes visit to Santa’s grotto & gift).

Sat 9 and 16 Dec. Booking is essential To book visit www.hants.gov.uk/runwaysend

www.hants.gov.uk

Families Hampshire North 7

What Should You Do if You Suspect your Child is Being Bullied or Bullying? By Jane Rogers When you send your child off to school you do so in the hope that they will be safe from harm. Sadly, for some children this is not the case and bullying is still an issue in many schools today. So what are the signs to look out for? There may be some obvious signs: If your child has been physically hurt or had their possessions stolen or broken, this should ring an alarm bell.

Your child may tell you they are being bullied: Children who are being bullied can be divided roughly into two categories: those who tell an adult about it and those who don’t. If your child tells you that another child has been unkind to them, it’s important to make the time to listen.

A change in behaviour:

Children who are being bullied may become withdrawn and anxious, or they may display angry and aggressive behaviour. Any unusual or worrying behaviour needs to be investigated.

Sleep disturbance:

If your child begins to have trouble sleeping, ask yourself if there could be something bothering them.

Anxiety about going to school:

Again, if this is a change in behaviour, it’s time to explore what the reasons might be.

How to help your child.

Listen to your child and stay calm However upset or angry you may feel, try to put those feelings to one side while your child is talking to you about what is happening to them. This is an opportunity for you to begin to teach your child how to approach and hopefully solve difficult problems. Staying calm and rational is a very useful skill;, role model it for your child at this difficult time.

Encourage your child to learn how to shrug off teasing

A bully will always home in on someone who seems weaker, and who gives them the reaction they want. Verbal bullying can be very hurtful to your child, but it’s useful to explain to them that a bully will bully all the more if they see a reaction. Although your child may be hurting inside, encourage them not to show it. Give them a chance to role play some scenarios at home, so that they can practice ways to react in a safe environment. 8 Families Hampshire North

Ask your child what they want you to do When my son was bullied at primary school, he wanted me to go to the school and sort it out. I remember him saying “I don’t think the adults know how bad it is.” He had tried to sort it out himself, but it hadn’t worked, so now he was taking a different approach. Encourage your child to try to tackle their own problems, but always be there for them when they get to the point of asking for your help.

Build self- esteem

Prevention is always better than cure. Children who are confident and have good self-esteem are less likely to be bullied. That’s not to say it won’t happen, but people with resilience will always fare better in the face of adversity and will be less likely to be bullied.

Learned behaviour Children who witness bullying behaviour around them may copy that behaviour and turn into a bully themselves. And finally: If you have real concerns always talk to your child’s school about it. All schools should have a bullying policy which you can ask to see, and, of course, a duty of care to each and every child. Jane Rogers is a parenting expert and founder of The Cambridge Parent Coach. Her two parent workbooks: ‘How to encourage good behaviour so you can enjoy your children’ and ‘How to use positive discipline to improve your child’s behaviour,’ are available on Amazon. You can follow ‘The Cambridge Parent Coach’ on Facebook.

What if my child is the bully?

If this is the case then spend some time trying to work out why this could be happening. People become bullies for a number of reasons. Low self- esteem Those who don’t think much of themselves on the inside may feel the need to make themselves look ‘big’ on the outside. Following the crowd Bullies can sometimes appear to be very popular and being part of the ‘in’ crowd can be very important to children and young people. For safety If the jungle that is the school playground feels unsafe, then it may make sense to your child to align themselves to the person who looks the strongest.

Anit-Bullying Week 13 - 17 November To help stamp out bullying in our schools talk to your school about getting involved in AntiBullying Week running from 13 to 17 November. Run by the AntiBullying Alliance, the week aims to support schools with a range of free activities to help them take action to prevent bullying and create a safe environment for pupils. For more information visit www. anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

The Secret Lives of 4 & 5 Year Olds at School Most parents and carers wish they could be a fly-on-the-wall when their child starts school. Well, Channel 4’s Secret Lives of 4 & 5 year Olds which returns this November, allows them to do just that. Filmed in a specially rigged Essex school, the new series aims to give viewers a child’s perspective of their transition to a school setting. Claire Winter talks to Dr Elizabeth Kilbey, a psychologist from the show, about what she learnt whilst filming the series. Can you tell us more about the series?

How can we deal with the issue of gender with young children?

“It offers this wonderful window, through which we can watch the children playing and interacting with each other. We give them lots of things to do, to see how they manage and play. It’s an amazing way of showing viewers what their children are actually doing at school.”

How did the children cope with the transition to school? “Parents main worry is generally ‘will my child be alright?’ and some children are very anxious. A great example is that wonderful picture of Prince George looking a bit worried on his first day of school. What I can now confidently tell parents and carers is that their children are absolutely fine, once they are gone.”

Not all children cope with the transition so well, what advice would you give to them? “Take a calm, pragmatic approach. Essentially children tend to be worried about what they think might happen. In reality, they are going to be fine, but they just don’t know that yet. Be confident and reassure your child that everything will be okay. Children are inherently social beings. They are curious and want to interact with people so even timid children will find something that sparks their imagination.”

What advice can you give parents whose children haven’t started school yet? “Children need to develop communications skills, get used to talking and relating to others and playing cooperatively. All of these social abilities will be vital later in life.

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Encourage lots of play with other children and get them to question how things work because natural curiosity is the main driver for learning.”

How can kids deal with friendship issues, if they have fallen out with someone? “It’s very tempting as a parent to want to fix this problem, but children fall in and out of friendships hundreds of times a day and can usually sort issues out themselves. If the problem is more complicated and you think there is unkind behaviour or bullying, then an adult might need to step in. But on the whole, conflict, when you are learning to be social is perfectly normal. Ask your child, “Is there any thing you can do to sort the situation out?” Try and help them understand the other child’s perspective. As parents, we often overcomplicate issues. We can learn a lot from children, particularly the way they are so open and forgiving.”

“I feel that gender isn’t particularly a driving force for children this age. They do make assumptions about children but they are happy for them to be corrected and they play on a much more straightforward basis. Gender becomes a much bigger issue for children towards the end of primary school. It’s important to encourage them to keep an open mind and understand that children of all ages and genders need the same opportunities because that is what is important for their development.”

What can you do if a child is exhibiting OCD type behaviour? “Anxiety needs a non-emotional response and a calm authority can be incredibly helpful. It’s tempting to offer support to someone who is suffering by saying, “isn’t this terrible,” but this reinforces the idea that there is something to be scared of. Parents shouldn’t try to neutralise the anxiety or reinforce it; it is best to carry on, with a business as usual approach. “If you are concerned or the behaviour is continuing over a long period of time and in more than one setting, get some advice from your school, GP or Health Visitor.”

What was the most interesting insight you gained from watching the children? “I learnt that children of this age are hilarious and multi-layered. They are not that different from adults. They have amazingly rich social lives. They test hypotheses, ask questions, fail and then carry on. They are resilient and incredibly complicated, just like we are.”

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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas

With so many fantastic events happening locally over Christmas, it’s difficult to choose which to go to! We’ve put together our favourite festive family events, plus check out our what’s on guide for even more events! Santa and the Elves Christmas (Science) Experience at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium A special portal has been discovered at Winchester Science Centre which leads directly to the North Pole. Santa’s elves invite children and their families to visit the Elf Invention Studio to see the Master Elf experimenting with the colours of Christmas (with plenty of science, whizzes and bangs) and meet Santa at his home and take part in a science-themed toy-making workshop. All-inclusive tickets include entry to the Science Centre and Elf Trail, the Santa and the Elves Christmas Experience and Reindeer Roundup in Space (live, elf-led planetarium show). Book your tickets online, visit www.winchestersciencecentre.org or call 01962 863 791.

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Peter Pan at The Anvil All children, except one, grow up - but this Christmas everyone can be a child as they take the second star to the right and fly far away to Neverland with the mischievous Peter Pan, at The Anvil in Basingstoke from Thursday 14 December Sunday 7 January 2018. Follow Wendy, John and Michael Darling as they meet Tiger Lily and the Indians, the Lost Boys, and the impish Tinker Bell. Boo and hiss as the evil pirate Captain Hook and his motley crew take on the children - but beware of the crocodile that ticks! Andrew Agnew (CBeebies’ Balamory) plays Smee as well as the taking on the role of Director. Gary Turner (Emmerdale, Peter Pan 2011 and 2006) makes a welcome return as Captain Hook, a role he has played twice at The Anvil. Star of the West End Jessica Punch takes the title role of Peter Pan. There is a relaxed performance on Tuesday 2 January at 2pm. This is a specially adapted performance of Peter Pan for those with autism or other disabilities. There is a BSL signed performance on Tuesday 19 December at 6pm. For more information or for tickets, call the Anvil Arts box office on 01256 844244 or visit anvilarts.org.uk

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Explore one of Europe’s best Christmas Markets and skate on the spectacular Ice Rink with child-friendly skate aids, before visiting the magnificent Winchester Cathedral. A fun-filled festive day out for all the family! ICE RINK

20 November 2017 – 7 January 2018 Session times: 10am – 9pm (last session starts 8pm) Tickets, including free skate hire: £11.50 adult, £9.50 child aged 8–18, £6.95 child aged 4–7. Family tickets and tiny tots sessions are also available. Book online at www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ice-rink or call 01962 857 276 CHRISTMAS MARKET

20 November 2017 – 22 December 2017 10am – 6pm, Sunday – Wednesday 10am – 7.30pm, Thursday – Saturday W I N C H E S T E R C AT H E D R A L

An unforgettable Christmas experience for visitors of all ages. Don’t miss the Lantern Parade on 30 November! www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk



FREE baby Christmas tree with every purchase

Buy your real Christmas tree from Queen Elizabeth Country Park Visit Santa in his Grotto * Christmas craft making * Festive tractor rides *

For full details and opening times visit forestry.gov.uk/ queenelizabethcountrypark

On sale 1 - 17 December Open daily 10am - 4.30pm

Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Gravel Hill, Horndean, PO8 0QE

More information:

s forestry.gov.uk/christma pre-booked *activities must be

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Families Hampshire North 11

Christmas at Winchester Cathedral If you’re looking for festive family fun then look no further than Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink.

The Vyne’s rooftop walkway In the last chance to scale the rooftop walkway, visitors can see if Father Christmas has done his ‘recce’. Explorers from tiny tots to pre-teens can pick up their £1 trail sheet at the visitor reception and spot magnificent wooden reindeer and cheerful little elves on the Father Christmas and Friends family trail running 1 December - 2 January. In a Tag-a-Tile activity, all ages can leave their mark on The Vyne by putting a message on a tile destined for the new roof. There is a suggested donation of £5. The walkway and Tag-a-Tile activity run daily 11am-3pm with last entry at 2.30pm. Closed 24 and 25 December.

Located at the heart of Winchester Cathedral’s historic inner close, you’ll be captivated by the sights, sounds and smells of the Christmas Market with tasty treats and Christmas gifts to entice visitors of all ages. At the centre of the bustling Christmas Market you’ll find Winchester Cathedral’s Ice Rink, an impressive real Ice Rink with a covered roof, guaranteeing a rain-free skate whatever the weather. With child friendly skate aids, family tickets and ‘tiny tots’ sessions available, the Ice Rink is popular with visitors young and old. Complete your day with a visit to the magnificent Winchester Cathedral where you can enjoy family events throughout the festive period, including the famous Lantern Parade on 30 November. With its towering Christmas tree and traditional carol services, you’ll experience the true joy of Christmas at Winchester Cathedral. For more information visit www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

WIN a family ticket for Winchester Cathedral’s Ice Rink worth £59

WIN

The ticket includes an hour-long skate session and a festive food and drink package for two adults and two children, to include one hot chocolate and one cookie per person. To enter, go to our website: www.familiesonline.co.uk/local/north-hampshire/competitions Enties close on 30th November. T&C’s apply.

The Nutcracker & The Mouse King 9th December 2017 2pm & 7pm From £9.50

Selborne Alton GU34 3JH 12 Families Hampshire North

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Santa‘s Grotto and breakfast at Cholderton Charlie’s Farm

Christmas at Paultons Park Visit Paultons Family Theme Park from Saturday November 18 and celebrate Christmas in a world of twinkling illuminations, seasonal music and a giant musical Christmas tree. Families will enjoy Santa’s Grotto, as they join a reindeer on his journey to find Santa in time for Christmas Eve. Along the way, children will meet many of the reindeer’s animal friends, discover magical scenes and be greeted by Father Christmas himself at the magical grotto. After receiving a special present, children can visit the Park’s state-of-the-art 4D Show Street Cinema for a screening of the Christmas adventure film, Birds of a Feather, where Del the pelican helps straitlaced bird Brian find his way South for the winter! Peppa Pig World will also be transforming this Christmas season as Peppa Pig and George wrap up in their winter scarves, hats and coats. Among the land of seasonal music and giant Christmas trees, Santa in his sleigh from the TV series can also be seen.

From 16 - 23 December, from 9- 10am in the Ewe Tree Cafe & Bar, kids can enjoy breakfast with Santa and service from the elves themselves and a photograph opportunity with Santa so bring your camera. Each child receives a small wrapped gift from Santa and there is storytime with the Elves. After breakfast, join the Elves for an animal handling session in the Ewe Tree Café Garden.Tractor Ride by one of the Elves (optional extra £1 per person). All for £9.95 per child! General admission to the farm is not included, this is a supervised activity and parents can accommodate their children free of charge. There will also be adult breakfasts and drinks available to purchase from the café on the day. Visit www.choldertoncharliesfarm.com for more details and to book.

Guests will be entertained with a daily Christmas Show featuring Frosty and Rudolph along with Billy and Belinda the elves as they sing and dance their way around the Show Stage. Adults can enjoy a complimentary hot fruit punch and a seasonal treat and children will also receive a Christmas gift. A great range of selected rides and attractions will also be open during the Christmas season, visit paultonspark.co.uk for further information and to book tickets.

Real Christmas Trees and a magical experience From the 1 - 17 December, there’s a range of fantastic Christmas Trees to buy at Queen Elizabeth Country Park including; Norway Spruce, Nordmann fir, Lodgepole pine and Pot grown spruce and fir. We only sell trees that are grown in the UK. And when you buy one, you’ll get a free Christmas tree sapling so you can grow your own real Christmas tree for the future. Open 10am – 4.30pm. There’s also a magical Christmas experience, with craft making, tractor rides and a trail, meet Father Christmas in his grotto and receive a gift. There is an additional cost for these activities and all must be pre-booked. For more information and to book visit forestry.gov.uk/queenelizabethcountrypark

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A magical Christmas at Gilbert White & The Oates Collections A magical Christmas is in store at Gilbert White & The Oates Collections, join us on the 2nd and 3rd of December for a family day out at our Mulled Wine Weekend. With live music and entertainment throughout the weekend, children’s crafts and activities and a chance to go wassailing; (an old tradition that includes making a lot of noise!) This is the perfect way to start your Christmas celebrations. On the 10th December join us for a trip into the magical world of The Nutcracker. This favourite Christmas story will be brought to life for families as Marie’s new toy comes to life on Christmas eve. Families Hampshire North 13

Your essential guide to family events this November and December. We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

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Throughout Nov & Dec Tag a Tile 2017 & Rooftop Walkway The Vyne Basingstoke, RG24 9HL Watch a major conservation project at roof level. While you’re up there, don’t forget to take in the views of The Vyne Estate. The walkway is accessible by stairs and by a lift. Be part of history by personalising a tile with a message or drawing to go on the new roof. For a suggested donation of £5, you can put your own message on the underside of one of 71 000 handmade tiles that will go on the roof for centuries to come. This event is free, normal admission apply. Every Wednesday Toddler Time Andover Library Chantry Centre, SP10 1LT Stories, nursery rhymes and a craft activity for toddlers aged 2-5 years. No need to book. 11-11.45am. Free. Every Wednesday & Thursday Rhyme Time Basingstoke Discovery Centre Potters Walk, RG21 7LS Thirty minutes of songs, rhymes, rhythm and actions to get your little one moving and singing! For children up to pre-school. 10.30am. Every Thursday Baby Rhyme Time Fleet Library Fleet, GU51 4BX Rhymes and Songs for Children aged 0-2. 9.45am-10.10am, 10.30am and 11.15am. Every Thursday Rhyme Time Alton Library Vicarage Hill, Alton, GU34 1HT Toe tapping, hand clapping, knee jogging fun for babies and parents. 10.30am - 11am. Every Friday Story Time Basingstoke Discovery Centre Potters Walk, RG21 7LS For children 0-5 years and their parent/carer. 10.30am.

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Every Friday Child Health Clinic Basingstoke Discovery Centre Potters Walk, RG21 7LS Drop in sessions on a Friday morning for baby weighing, advice on feeding, sleeping and general advice for children 0-5 years. 10am. Every Friday & Monday Rhyme Time Andover Library Chantry Centre, SP10 1LT Come along and join in the fun with songs, signs and rhymes for 0-2 years. 11am - 11.30am. Free session but limited places. Book at library counter or by calling 0300 5551387. Every Saturday Children’s Board Games Basingstoke Discovery Centre Potters Walk, RG21 7LS Different activities each week for children aged 3-11 years Saturday Crafts and Colouring Weekly themed drop in sessions 10am - 3pm. Every Saturday Construction Club Fleet Library Fleet, GU51 4BX Join Fleet Library’s construction club every Saturday. Build amazing buildings and vehicles - and anything else your imagination can conjure up! No need to book. 2.30pm - 4pm Every Saturday Saturday Family Story Time Alton Library Vicarage Hill, GU34 1HT Stories and simple craft for under 8 year olds. Come along on the 1st Saturday of the month, 10.30am 11.15am.

the planetarium. 5.20pm. Tickets £5 per person. 10% discount for annual members. 4 November Family Drop-In Workshop Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery Basingstoke, RG21 7QD Drop-in and be inspired by the art, and re-create your own Turner! 11.30 – 12.30pm and 1.30 -2.30pm. £2 per child to help cover the cost of materials. 4 & 5 November Horrible Science with Nick Arnold Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ A feast of science gruesomeness not to be missed! Nick Arnold celebrates the best bits of the multi-award winning Horrible Science series. Each 45 minute show consists of a range of demonstrations, readings from the latest books and quizzes. Ideal for children aged 6-14 and their parents, but all ages welcome. Tickets: £1 (general admission fees apply). Show times: 11am, 2pm and 3pm (approx 45 minutes).

6 & 7 November Shakespeare Schools Festival The Haymarket Basingstoke, RG21 7NW Shakespeare Schools Foundation is proud to present the world’s largest youth drama festival for a series of productions staged by local schools. Adults £11, Over 65s, under 16s and f/t students £9 (includes £2 booking fee). 7pm. 11 November & 9 December Alton Farmer’s Market Alton High Street, GU34 1AB 10am - 2pm 11 November Beauty and the Beast (PG) Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ 5.20pm. Tickets £5 per person. 16 November Christmas Lights Switch On Festival Place Basingstoke, RG21 7BA It’s the symbolic start of Christmas – the annual light switch on event! There will be live entertainment, Santa and the all important pushing of the ‘on’ button.

2 November Spanish Rhymetime Basingstoke Discovery Centre Potters Walk, RG21 7LS Learn through music, singing and fun. For children of all ages, nonSpanish speakers welcome. Drop into this free session. 3pm. 4 November Let’sGo Basingstoke Discovery Centre Potters Walk, RG21 7LS Let’sGo Construction Club for children aged 3-11 years. 2pm. 4 November Cinderella (U) Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ Experience family-friendly film screenings in the unusual setting of

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17 November Roller Disco The Harlington Fleet, GU51 4BY Disco 6pm- 9pm. Entry £5 per person (including skate hire). Purchase on the door only. 18 November Christmas Decoration Workshop Basing House Basingstoke, RG24 8AE Using a variety of mixed materials you will make 3 festive items to decorate your house with this Christmas. 11am - 3.30pm. £25. 18 November – 24 December Breakfast or Tea with Santa Wyevale Garden Centres Dummer, Basingstoke, RG25 2DJ Andover, SP11 7DN Sherfield On Loddon, RG27 0HL Bring your Little Diggers along and enjoy a delicious, freshly-prepared breakfast or tea! The whole family meets Santa, children decorate a festive biscuit and then choose their own present to take home! Adults £4.50, £8, children £10. 18 November – 23 December Christmas at Paultons Paultons Park Ower, SO51 6AL Meet Santa in his magical Grotto, experience Peppa Pig World in a festive setting and enjoy selected rides and attractions. 18 & 19 November Live Science Show: The Science of Light with BBC presenter Jon Chase Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ Jon Chase has a background in aerospace engineering but has followed his passion as a professional science communicator. His unique style is entertaining, engaging and memorable. Jon is the perfect presenter to build your child’s understanding of core scientific principles. Ages 7+. £1 (general admission fees apply). Show times 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm (approx 45 minutes). 20 November – 22 December Winchester Christmas Market Winchester Cathedral The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS Recognised as one of the best in Europe with its unique location, high quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere. Wonderful Christmas gifts, decorations and festive foods can be found in abundance. Open from 10am – 6pm Sun – Wed and 10am – 7.30pm Thur– Sat. 20 November – 7 January Christmas Ice Rink Winchester Cathedral The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink is spectacularly situated in the centre of the Cathedral’s historic Inner Close and surrounded by the Christmas Market. The clear roof guarantees a rain-free skate whatever the weather and fun skate aids make it an ideal rink for adults and children alike.

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24 November Christmas Fair Hurstbourne Tarrant Primary School Andover, SP11 0AX It’s the Hurstbourne Tarrant Primary School Christmas market from 3-5pm in the HBT Community Centre. Free entry, lots of craft and Christmas stalls. Carol singing, Santa’s grotto, festive foods and drinks. Lots to see & do. 24 November – 27 November Black Friday Shopping Festival Place Basingstoke, RG21 7BA Find great offers throughout the centre across the Black Friday weekend, with extended opening times: Black Friday 9am - 9pm, Saturday 25th 9am - 7pm, Sunday 26th 11am - 5pm. Cyber Monday 9am - 8pm. 25 Novenber Christmas Craft Fair Cholderton Charlie’s Farm Salisbury SP4 0EW Kick off the festive season with us down on the farm for our Annual Christmas Craft Fair! Call 01980 629 379 for times and prices. 25 November The Nutcracker Anvil Arts Basingstoke, RG21 7QR The Nutcracker is a seasonal favourite. A much loved ballet, full of familiar music. It tells the story of a little girl whose godfather gives her a Nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve, and the magic begins. 7.30pm 25 November The Ugly Duckling The Lights Andover, SP10 1AH Woodland trees transform from dark weathered branches, to silver sticks of frost, while hidden in brushwood, beside an ice-covered lake, a lost rejected duckling stares skyward at the migrating swans, yearning to belong and marvelling at their beauty. Ages 3+ £7. 1.30pm. 25 & 26 November Night Sky Live! Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ An inspirational two-day festival. Activities include real-time exploration of the night sky, live planetarium shows and fun and interactive family shows on the science of the night sky. 25 & 26 November Wreath Making Workshop Gilbert White’s House Selborne,GU34 3BN Have a relaxing day making beautiful and unique Christmas wreaths, with refreshments and an opportunity to visit the museum. 11am-12.30pm. £40 per person, includes a sandwich lunch and entry to the museum. Throughout December Father Christmas and Friends Family Trail The Vyne Basingstoke, RG24 9HL Follow this trail around the property

to find the festive helpers of Father Christmas, then ascend the exciting rooftop walkway to see if Father Christmas has made a safe landing. £1 for trail sheet. Normal admission. 1 - 23 December Reindeer Round-up in Space Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ This live, elf-led planetarium show, includes plenty of audience participation and a flight through the Solar System to search of the seven, sleigh-pulling reindeer, which will ultimately help Santa deliver gifts across the world on Christmas Eve. This show is included in the Santa and the Elves Christmas Experience or can be booked as a standalone event. 2 & 3 December Elf (PG) Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ 5.20pm. Tickets £5 per person. 2 December Christmas Fair Basing House Basingstoke, RG24 8AE Visit the popular Basing House Christmas Fair inside the magnificent Tudor Great Barn. A wonderful opportunity to purchase local food, drink and crafts for Christmas gifts or maybe to treat yourself. Hot food and drinks available to purchase. £2 per adult, children are free. There will be no entry to the ruins side of the site on this day. 11am - 4pm. 3 December Santa Parade Festival Place Basingstoke, RG21 7BA Join Santa and his festive friends for the annual merry parade around Festival Place. 6 & 7 December Highclere Christmas Fair Highclere Castle Newbury RG20 9RN This will be a festive occasion with a spectacular Christmas tree, carol singers, Christmas decorations and a variety of exciting stalls. Adults £20, Children £5. 9.30am – 4.30pm 9 December The Nutcracker and the Mouse King Gilbert White’s House Selborne, GU34 3BN Quantum Theatre Present the traditional Christmas tale of the Nutcracker. An enchanting mix of magic, music and love-conqueringall for all ages Adults £12.50, children £9.50. 2.30pm & 7.30pm. 9 December The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus The Lights Andover, SP10 1AH This exciting story follows the early life of Santa Claus from being abandoned in the forest and adopted by the wood-nymphs, through to making and delivering the very first toys. Age 3+. Tickets £7.50. 10.30am

9 &10 December Christmas Market Milestones Museum Basingstoke, RG22 6PG Come along to the Victorian cobbled streets and experience a fabulously festive Christmas market. You’ll enjoy browsing over 30 stalls selling a range of locally made food, drinks, crafts and gifts. 9 &10, December Santa’s Grotto Cholderton Charlie’s Farm Salisbury SP4 0EW 1am, 12pm, 1pm & 2pm. In our Grotto and classrooms, kids can enjoy arivate family visit to see Santa in his Grotto. Each child receives a small wrapped gift from Santa. Tell Santa what you’d like for Christmas. Christmas decorations and cookie making. The event also runs from 16 - 23 December. 10 December Frozen Sing – Along (PG) Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ 9am - Tickets are £5 per person, per screening. 10% discount for annual members. 13 - 24 December Jack and the Beanstalk The Harlington Fleet, GU51 4BY This is an old fashioned British pantomime, set in an idyllic county setting. “Jack” is the classic combination of the straight characters’ triumph of good over evil, resulting in the sealing of their romantic ambitions, coupled with the comic characters’ humorous antics and zany behaviour. 14 December – 7 January Peter Pan Anvil Arts Basingstoke, RG21 7QR See page 10 for details. 15 December Santa in Love Queen Mary’s College, Central Studio Basingstoke, RG21 3HF This hugely popular, highly interactive production has been designed as the perfect Christmas show for younger families with children aged 2-5. A fun filled family musical complete with games, giggles and all your favourite Christmas songs. Santa will be available after the show to meet your little ones. £8.50. 4.30pm. 16 December Carol Concert - The Harmonium Singers St Mary’s Church Andover, SP10 1ER In aid of Andover crisis and support centre. Tickets £10, under 14 free. 22 December Jack and the Beanstalk interactive storytelling workshop The Lights, West Street, Andover, SP10 1AH A panto themed storytelling workshop, especially designed for little ones. Suitable for children aged 2-5 years. £5. 9.30am & 11am.

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