Families Gloucestershire July-Aug 2013

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July/Aug 2013 Issue 15

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

SUMMER SPECIAL Ideas for summer fun that won’t break the budget t

How to make learning languages fun WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO POSTMAN PAT LIVE!

For families with young children aged 0-12 in Gloucestershire

Welcome to the Summer issue!

The upcoming summer holidays are filling me with the usual mix of a little excitement, much panic, swiftly followed by characteristic blind optimism.

Although I have been writing about the abundance of activities, events and fantastic places to visit for weeks now, I personally have not planned one little thing.

I believe this will magically happen in the week running up to the holiday, when I will also deep clean the house, restock the rainy day art cupboard and organise my study. Hmmm.

If you, like me, are not one of life’s planners then it’s not too late - we have plenty of ideas to keep your family occupied this summer. Learn a new skill together or enjoy one of the many activities in Gloucestershire that won’t break the budget.

And don’t forget to keep the What’s On section for your guide to summer fun across the county.

Enjoy!

PS. Let me introduce the newest member of our family, my gorgeous nephew Hugo who arrived in May. Needless to say, we are all smitten.

CONTENTS 2–4.....NEWS & VIEWS 5...........BUMPS AND BABES

Understanding sunshine and vitamin D

6-8......EDUCATION Education News

“What I learned on my holidays”

9............HOW TO...

Make learning languages fun this summer

10-13...SUMMER SPECIAL

Summer fun that won’t break the budget Save on summer with childcare vouchers

14-16...WHAT’S ON GUIDE AND COMPETITIONS

And the winner is…

Bairbre Lloyd, winner of the VIP package to the Gloucester Quays Home & Garden Party (March/April issue) tells us about her day.

We enjoyed a family day out at the Party on Easter Monday. My mum-in-law and I listened to a talk by Carol Klein and, as it was a very cold day, were pleased to be invited indoors for a cup of tea afterwards! She was warm, chatty and talked about her garden and her filming commitments and asked us about ourselves and posed for some photos. Thank you to Families Gloucestershire and Gloucester Quays for the tickets.

Deborah Langham Editor editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk www.facebook.com/familiesglos Twitter: @familiesglos FG Circulation 15,000 copies distributed through nurseries, schools, libraries, activity classes and other selected distribution points throughout Gloucestershire. If you would like free copies for your organisation please contact us.

Cover Photograph

By Joanna Keogh Designed by Joanna Keogh Printed by CBF www.cbfnet.co.uk

Dormer House primary students exhibit at leading Cotswold gallery Primary school students from Dormer House School in Moreton-in-Marsh will hold their Annual Art Exhibition at Celia Lendis Galleries, one of the Cotswolds’ leading contemporary art galleries.

The exhibition will form part of the inaugural Moreton Art Weeks, a two week festival of visual arts and design which runs from 6th to 20th July 2013.

One hundred framed artworks by the students will be exhibited to raise funds for the school’s art department. Each artwork is on sale for £10, but few are likely to remain unsold after the Parents and Friends’ Private View on Tuesday 8th July!

The exhibition is open to the public for viewing on Tuesday 8th and Wednesday 9th July from 9.30am until 5.30pm.

For more information visit www.celialendis.com

Families Gloucestershire is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.Paper used to print Families Gloucestershire is from fully managed sustainable sources - meaning trees which are felled are continuously replaced. Inks are soya based, which can be recycled.

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News and Views In the Night Garden Live back in Birmingham for two weeks only!

Don’t miss your chance to see In The Night Garden Live at Cannon Hill Park in Birmingham from 25th July for two weeks only.

See Igglepiggle, Upsy Daisy and Makka Pakka brought to life with beautiful costumes, magical puppets, enchanting music and breathtaking projections.

In the Night Garden Live takes place in its own familyfriendly Showdome. With just 13 rows of seats, you will be close to the action and everyone gets a great view!

But you really must be quick to get tickets as seats are limited, and premium tickets have already sold out.

Watch the trailer and book online at www.nightgardenlive.com

NCT branches and the activities they run in Gloucestershire are all planned, organised and manned by volunteers. Without this army of helpers, there would be no drop-in groups, nearly new sales, baby first aid courses or newsletters.

Whether you want to meet other new parents in the local area, give something back to an organisation that helped you when you were a new parent or gain experience in a new field, the NCT would love you to come and join their team.

They also welcome grannies, grandads, relatives of all kinds, and students too, helping provide experience to the midwives of the future.

Whether you can give a couple of hours on an ad hoc basis or a more regular commitment, it doesn’t matter. And if or when you decide to go back to work, volunteering can look great on your CV and you may have gained valuable experience that could help you take the next step on your career ladder.

They have a number of current vacancies - please see individual branch websites for more information: Cheltenham: http://www.nct.org.uk/branches/cheltenham/volunteer-vacancies or by emailing info@nctcheltenham.org Gloucester: http://www.nct.org.uk/branches/gloucester/vacancies, www.facebook.com/ gloucesternct or www.twitter.com/nctgloucester Cirencester: www.nct.org.uk/branches/cirencester Tetbury: www.nct.org.uk/branches/tetbury Stroud: www.nct.org.uk/branches/stroud-valleys

volunteering

Name Your Child’s ‘Stuff’ The summer holidays offer a wonderful chance for children to kick off their shoes and enjoy carefree days - which is great until they mislay their shoes, outer layers, and swimming goggles!

Ann-Maree, founder of Labels4Kids (pictured), advises parents to label everything - “because kids lose stuff!

Better still, label it twice - once inside a pocket or on the care label, and once on the collar so there is no doubt who things belong to.”

Ann-Maree was recently invited to be a member of No10 Downing Street EU E-Commerce task force along with ASOS to give her advice on e-commerce. Labels4Kids’ own relaunched website makes it easier for you to find your way to the right products. Choose from brilliant, named stick-on clothing labels, easy iron-on labels and woven iron-on labels, vinyl labels for hard surfaces and selection packs.

READER OFFER: Families readers can save 10% when using the code ‘families’ at the checkout: www.labels4kids.com/fam

Do you need some extra help this summer?

The long summer holidays can be a tricky juggling act for working parents.

Au pairs can be the ideal solution – they’re cost-efficient and a very flexible form of childcare. As well as providing your children with a consistent carer, they can also teach them an awareness of different cultures, and they might also pick up a few words of a different language, too.

If you’re looking for an au pair but aren’t sure where to turn, Oxfordshire agency Cherish Childcare might be able to help you out.

“We aim to make the recruitment of your au pair as easy and successful as possible,” says owner Kathryn Powell. “We’ll help you work out what type of au pair is best for you and your family, and will then vet the au pair to find out more about their character and suitablity.”

Au pairs are recruited from any country in Western Europe – some families choose a French au pair if their children learn French at school; while if an au pair with fluent English is desired, Dutch or German au pairs are best.

Generally an au pair provides childcare and light housework for 25 hours each week and usually two evening of babysitting in exchange for accommodation, food, £75 weekly pocket money.

To find out more, contact Kathryn on 01235 851090 or visit www.cherishchildcare.com

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News and Views Family Camps at Abbey Home Farm this summer

Family Camp at Abbey Home Farm is a fun way for the whole family to explore the farm-to-fork connections.

Over the course of a weekend, you will get your hands dirty helping out with real farm chores, play in the woods while learning about ecology, and have a friendly competition with a Farm Scavenger Hunt.

Family Farm Camp is most suitable for families with children between ages 5-12 but kids of all ages (0100!) are welcome. The weekend is designed to be self-catering and residential with several types of accommodation available.

Family Camps are running on the following weekends: 19th - 21st July 2013 9th - 11th August 2013 For more details about accommodation and family camp activities visit www.theorganicfarmshop.co.uk/ education/family-camp-2013/

GREAT STROUD BAKE OFF

Have you experienced an iPaddy?

Six in ten parents punish gadget-obsessed kids with tech bans and three quarters believe children get too attached to their gadgets.

59% of parents say they have experienced an ‘iPaddy’ when they try and forcibly end their kids’ gadget game time. Researchers at online retailer Pixmania.com found restricting use of gadgets is now the preferred form of punishment for eight out of ten parents in the UK. This new trend for tech-punishment has led to the coining of the term ‘iPaddy’, bad behaviour brought on directly from children having their gadgets confiscated.

Confiscating smartphones and tablets were revealed as the most hated form of punishment as they stopped children having contact with friends and enjoying entertainment. It comes as nearly six in ten parents have actually banned their children from playing on gadgets – or have taken them away for a period of time.

The most popular tech item for children to own was a games console (owned by 46%), followed by an iPod or mp3 player (30%) and smartphone (30%). The average child was found to spend nearly two hours a day playing with tech products and over a quarter of children were revealed as using gadgets for 4+ hours per day.

Recycle your ‘grown out of’ toys and equipment locally with

Having children brings many wonderful moments, but it also brings lots of plastic clutter in the shape of toys and equipment, much of which is no longer needed or used despite having plenty of life left in it.

It’s a waste to throw these items away but listing them on national auction sites, watching bids and dealing with postage and packaging is a time consuming business for already busy families and there are few alternative options.

This is why mum Erica Cook decided to create an online marketplace for people to buy and sell good quality toys and equipment locally, encouraging collection from homes.

“I was keen to create a very simple and straightforward website for people to use which not only facilitates recycling but also allows us to buy great quality items at a snip of the new price tag” explained Erica.

Little Ragamuffins is currently offering free advertising of your items for 3 months.

For more information visit www.little-ragamuffins.co.uk

Welcome to the world…

Many congratulations to Deborah Taylor of Glitz and Giggles on the birth of her beautiful daughter Abigail. In addition to her busy role as a new mum, Deborah provides children’s entertainment for birthdays, weddings and christenings, including party bags and invitations. She can tailor an event to any theme including pamper parties, pirate parties, dinosaur parties and outdoor sports.

For more information visit www.glitzngiggles.vpweb.co.uk

The British Heart Foundation have launched their latest fund raising idea based on the Great British Bake Off - the Great Stroud Bake Off! The event will take place on the 7th July at the Greyhound Bar in Stroud and competitors will be asked to bake cakes, bread, pastries or food for a healthy heart. Each entry costs £5 with all funds going to the BHF. The organising team of Kate Williams Brown from the BHF, Cllr Debbie Young, Ginny Smart, Sarah Holder and Crockett Creswell have been meeting weekly to make plans at the Greyhound Bar. Evie, owner of the Greyhound has been working hard in getting prizes for the competition including a day on the Artisan Bakers baking course. Guest foody judges plus Stroud News & Journal photographer Carl Hewlett and Stroud Life reported Ben Falconer.

Anyone wanting to know more should check out the British Heart Foundation facebook page at www.facebook.com/BHFstroud and look at www.virginmoneygiving.com/team/ GreatStroudBakeOff to enter. You can also follow the competition on Twitter @StroudBakeOff and www.greatstroudbakeoff.org.uk.

Pictured: Organisers Crockett Cresswell, Cllr Debbie Young, Ginny Smart and Kate Williams Brown outside the Greyhound Bar where the event will be held.

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Bumps and babes

Sunshine, Vitamin D and tired tots

O

By Joanna Moorhead

By Joanna Parry

ur 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.

Gloucestershire’s first natural parenting centre opens for play in Cheltenham The Blue Skies Natural Parenting Centre & Cafe offers families a relaxed setting to enjoy play, good food and company, plus an array of activities and parenting resources.

The centre is the project of Nicole Hastie, a qualified Sling Consultant and Chair of Trustees for Gloucestershire Breastfeeding Supporters Network.

The centre has three large and airy spaces – the Sunshine Suite for exercise clubs and antenatal classes, the Blue Skies room for baby massage, therapy sessions and sensory soft play and the Serenity Suite for massage, reflexology, osteopathy and beauty.

Local teachers, therapists and workshop leaders share their skills which include Babysign courses, Heart on Hands signing for children, Melody Makers music and movement classes, Lotus Bud pregnancy yoga, Fit Back and Bumps exercise classes and Babel Babies language classes.

You will find the centre located on Knapp Road, Cheltenham and it is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am - 5pm.

For more information visit www. blueskiescentre.com or follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ BlueSkiesNaturalParenting

PAMPERING FOR NEW MUMS Yummy Mummy Time – pampering for pregnant and new mums - is coming to Chapel Spa, Cheltenham on Wednesday 11th September from 7pm.

Relax, sample products in the Mama Mio range and receive mini treatments and tips from the Chapel Spa Team, and other pregnancy related experts.

Tickets are £12.50 or £20 for two and include nibbles and a non-alcoholic cocktail. Pre-booking is essential.

For more information and to book visit www.jttevents. co.uk/events/mum-to-be-time or call 07712 433978

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Education News

A fun idea to increase your child’s independence!

Remembering everything they need to take to school and bring home again is a daily challenge for most children. TomTag is a new invention by two mums that helps children to be more organised and independent.

TomTag is a colourful daily checklist that clips to a school bag and is practical and fun to use. Picture cues identify the items a child needs to remember to take with them so it’s even suitable for non-readers and those with additional needs. Each pack contains 6 colourful button holders, one for each day of the school week, plus an extra tag to list the items a child needs every day. A generous supply of blank buttons is included along with a set of picture stickers for a wide range of school items and activities including sports, musical instruments & school essentials.

TomTag is available to purchase online from www.orkidideas.com at only £9.99 per pack. Buy before 31st Aug 2013 using code FAM10 and receive 10% off.

Take the ‘Creepy House’ Summer Reading Challenge 2013 Children’s reading can ‘dip’ during the summer and research shows that taking part in the Summer Reading Challenge can help children keep up their reading skills during the long summer holiday.

The annual Summer Reading Challenge helps gets three quarters of a million children aged 4 to11 into libraries to keep up their reading skills and confidence over the summer break.

Children are encouraged to read six books from whatever genre they like - fact books, joke books, picture books, audio books - just as long as they are borrowed from the library.

Each year sees a different theme - this year it’s ‘Creepy House’.

Each time your child finishes a book they’ll receive stickers and rewards - and there’s a certificate for everyone who finishes.

It doesn’t matter what level your child is at either as the challenge is open to children of all reading abilities.

Your child’s school will probably give you some information but if you want to know more visit www.gloucestershire.gov. uk/libraries or www.creepy-house.co.uk where you’ll find out all about the challenge. You’ll also find a brilliant ‘book sorter’ which allows children to search for books that will suit their age and tastes.

25% off Explore Learning

award-winning tuition when you join in July

Explore Learning centres across the UK provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities, and also run special courses in 11+ exam preparation.

The centres are open 7 days a week, and are Ofsted registered so 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 across the country look for an engaging way to keep their children’s brains active over the long summer break. 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!

To book a free trial at Explore Learning Cheltenham, please visit www.explorelearning.co.uk or call 01242 279 947.

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Education News

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Education

What I learned on my holidays...

By Joanna Moorhead

T

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

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).

Sleep outdoors: nothing says ‘summer’ like the chance to kip

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.

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!

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

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.

Climb a tree: there’s so much to

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.

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!

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.

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 forever.

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 greataunts and uncles won’t always be around to fill you in – so ask the questions now.

Have a treasure hunt: there are loads of different ways to

Learn a good card or magic trick: it takes

run a treasure hunt, so read up on the different methods online. As a rough rule of thumb, kids can manage twice as many clues as their age. Or why not use a treasure hunt to explore Gloucestershire and beyond? www.treasuretrails.co.uk supply ready-made treasure hunts that will get your whole family outside, enjoying the fresh air while solving clues together.

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Find your way using a map and compass:

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practice, but it’s enormous fun and if you get good at your trick, you really can surprise people (especially visitors). It’s part-performance, part-agility, part-confidence; all useful skills for every child.

And if you’ve completed the activities above, visit www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk for more ideas!

How to...

Introduce a foreign language to your child this summer Songs & Music

Ima Loveges by E Photo veryth graph ing W ic Stu e dio

O

ff anywhere nice this summer? Packed your flip flops, suncream and phrase book? Going abroad is a great way to top up your language skills (‘¡dos cervezas por favor!’) as well as your tan. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for your children to hear native speakers of foreign languages.

Interacting with real people when playing on the beach or ordering food in a café is by far the best way for children to learn that people speak different languages in different countries, as well as picking up new words and practising their speaking skills.

It’s not just school-age children who benefit from such interactions, however, and you don’t have to go abroad to bring foreign languages to your children’s attention.

Babies are experts in differentiating between languages from birth and at six months babies can hear all of the sounds in the world, recognising which ones belong to their mother tongue and which ones don’t. Gradually they filter out the latter, through lack of exposure, and they focus on sounds they will use most. This stage of language development is often overlooked as, to the untrained eye, babies don’t seem to be doing anything. Far from it! What they are doing is listening, the first and arguably most important stage of language acquisition.

When they finally utter those immortal ‘dada’ or ‘mama’ sounds we’ve been waiting to hear for months, their brains are already focusing on English sounds, vocabulary and patterns of speech.

There are lots of ways you can introduce foreign languages into your daily routine to capitalise on children’s early ability to soak up sounds. And unlike adults trying to master a second language, young children do it effortlessly!

By Cate Hamilton, Babel Babies

An interactive and fun way to introduce children to languages.

Learn foreign songs together - sing and dance with your children!

They will be more receptive to learning languages if they see their parents enjoying it too. You don’t have to have a perfect accent for them to experience enormous benefits – the emotional intelligence they gain is just as important as the actual sounds. Learn a lullaby and sing it as part of the bedtime routine. Your toddler will soon be singing Twinkle, Twinkle in Spanish.

Stories

Words are given context through the pictures. The Usborne TouchyFeely books and favourites such as The Gruffalo are available in several languages. One story at bedtime is a great way to start: the kids will soon be asking for more.

Radio/CDs

Tune in to foreign radio over lunch, and have a CD of foreign songs in the car. Short, regular bursts of exposure to language over a period of months will reap long-term benefits.

Games

Playing board games or even a simple game of SNAP! is another interactive way to learn languages with your children.

TV

The least effective way for children to learn languages - research shows that young children learned no new foreign sounds from a DVD compared to the same dose from a person speaking directly to them.

Having said that, as toddlers love The Lingo Show on CBeebies you could integrate one episode a day as part of your new language routine.

And most of all, don’t be afraid to have a go yourself. Your children will love learning with you and it is much better to have a smattering of another language than none at all.

Useful links

RADIO: babelbabies.com/2012/10/09/i-heard-it-on-the-radio/ BOOKS/CDs/TOYS & GAMES: astore.amazon.co.uk/babebabi-21 Babel Babies runs multilingual music and movement sessions in Cheltenham and Gloucester for babies and toddlers, with songs and stories in languages from around the world. www.babelbabies.com

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Summer Fun

K

eeping your family busy during the long summer holidays can put pressure on your purse, so we at Families Gloucestershire have found 20 things for you to do with your children this summer for £2 per person or less.

Whether you’re looking for parks, museums, markets, clubs or classes or some good, old-fashioned athome fun, we’ll prove you really can get something for (almost) nothing.

At home Whether the sun is shining brightly or it is bucketing down with rain, if you want to enjoy your own home over the summer holidays here is our list of free and fun things to do at home! n Using a bucket of water and big (wallpaper) brushes get your little ones to paint the garden fence, wall or patio. It’s simple, it keeps the mess outside and it’s great fun. Or try hand/foot/finger painting (also outside) on the largest paper you can find – try the back of unused old wallpaper.

Then get out the sprinkler hose to clean everyone off! n Start a water fight in the back garden with two teams – one guarding a base and the others trying to get to the base and steal their mission plans n Games day – challenge the kids to get through at least 10 board games, ping pong sessions etc in the day. n Pitch a tent in the garden, fill the paddling pool and sand pit, light the BBQ and make some fruity cocktails before you camp out overnight. Then pretend you’re in an exotic location! n An outdoor blackboard will encourage all sorts of games and creativity. All you need is a piece of board, ideally marine plywood, cut to size, and some blackboard paint, available from DIY or hardware stores.

Once painted, the board can be fixed to your house wall, fence or shed. Keep chalks in a waterproof box ready for drawing, writing, treasure hunt maps, instructions and scoring.

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Summer holiday activities that Museums & Exhibitions

advertisers offer free trials over the summer break – check out the adverts in our magazine or online for the wide variety of music, dance, drama, sport and art and crafts companies that offer complimentary sessions.

Why not try one, and then book an ongoing class for September?

Libraries

The Corinium Museum in Cirencester runs wonderful family drop in sessions that cost £1 per child and are free to season ticket holders. This summer’s themes include Medieval Knights, Jolly Jesters and Roman Shields among others. See our What’s on pages and www. familiesgloucestershire.co.uk for details! n The Museum in the Park in Stratford Park has a whole host of summer happenings. Free family fun includes enjoying toys and games of the past, an archaeology day and Punch and Judy Shows. For just £1 you can enjoy making paper mosaics and brilliant board games. In August, the Museum in the Park is hosting ‘Ancient Wisdom’ a travelling exhibition from Science Projects Ltd (www.science-projects.org) exploring ancient inventions and mechanical marvels. Free hands-on fun for all ages. See our What’s on pages and www. familiesgloucestershire.co.uk for details! n Family Fun at Gloucester Cathedral. This summer holiday, come and explore the Cathedral looking for all the different types of creatures who “live” there. This FREE trail will start at the Pilgrim Door and can be collected from a Welcomer. You can also visit The Tribune Gallery where you can dress up as a Bishop, complete the Edward Stained Glass Jigsaw and have fun in the Whispering Gallery. Adults £2, children are free. www. gloucestercathedral.org.uk

Clubs, Classes and Activities n Why not try a free summer club, class or activity? Many of our local clubs and classes

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

When the weather is wet and nasty, here’s what you can do indoors for free at a local library. n Join the Summer Reading Challenge! From Sat 13th July, all children can register at their library for Creepy House. They will get a Creepy Fold out poster and a set of stickers (including some smelly scratch and sniff ones!) and a glow in the dark wrist band on their second visit! To receive a certificate and a medal for completing the challenge, children need to collect all 6 stickers, and record 6 of their favourite books. There will be lots to do in the library, quizzes, events, competitions and all completely free of charge! For more information visit www.gloucestershire. gov.uk/libraries and www.creepyhouse.org.uk.

n Gloucester Quays Food Festival. 19th to 21st July. A star-studded culinary line-up featuring the Queen of Cakes, Mary Berry and celebrity chefs, James Martin and Gino Dicampo. Live cooking, entertainment, food, drink and music fuse for a fun FREE family day out. www. gloucesterquaysfoodfestival. co.uk n Stroud Fringe Festival. 30th August to 1st September. This FREE end of summer festival features entertainment for all ages. The lineup includes family activities with World Jungle, a social enterprise building bridges between communities and cultures through music, arts, dance and play on Saturday from 11am. www.stroudfringe.co.uk

Country Parks and Gardens Gloucestershire has a plethora of enticing green spaces with lush grass, perfumed flowers, acres

Festivals

n SportsFest 2013. 13th to 14th July. Wall’s Club, Barnwood, Gloucester GL4 3HG. An exciting and enjoyable FREE weekend of summer sporting fun for all ages and abilities with over 50 different sports & activities to try, watch & enjoy. From 10am to 6pm each day. www. sportsfestivals.co.uk n Tewkesbury Medieval Festival. 13th to 14th July. Join in the largest FREE medieval gathering in Europe. Enjoy a re-enactment of the Battle of Tewkesbury, period entertainment, children’s activity area and medieval market. www. tewkesburymedievalfestival.org

of room in which to wander and most with children’s playgrounds.

Best of all, visiting is free! n Pittville Park, Cheltenham GL52 3JE. In view of the beautiful Pump Rooms, the Eastern park is home to a children’s play area and aviaries where you’ll find birds and bunnies. The Western park has trails and tracks to explore, lake and adventure playground.

There is also a very popular BMX park for older children. n Robinswood Hill Country Park, Gloucester GL4 6SX. Signposted nature and geology trails for the whole family to enjoy. The country park is also home to Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust Conservation Centre, a gift shop and Robinswood Rare Breeds Farm. n Stratford Park, Stroud. Enjoy woodland walks, an ornamental lake and let your children run off some steam in the children’s

won’t blow the budget play area. Model train rides for children on Sunday 28th July and Sunday 25th August (50p suggested donation). There is also an outdoor swimming pool (slightly over our £2 budget but relatively inexpensive at £2.80 for adults and £1.55 for children). And on sunny summer Sunday afternoon, why not pack a picnic, lay down a rug and be entertained with a brass band concert. n National Trust’s Woodchester Park Play Trail, Nympsfield, nr Stonehouse, GL10 3TS. A 2.7km woodland walk incorporating, bridges, beams, rope swings, perfect to keep inspire children busy to explore the woodland.

There is even a den building area for that most popular of summer activities! Parking costs £2. For more information contact Woodchester Park on (01452) 814213. n The Bournstream Trust, just outside Wotton-under-Edge Unique adventure playground and picnic site dedicated to children and young people with disabilities and special needs, their families and carers. www.bournstream.org.uk While you’re out visiting parks or other natural spaces you could be part of a fun wildflower survey. Plantlife’s Bee Scene survey is an easy way for children to learn about wildflowers in their local area. By ‘planting’ the findings on the Wild About Plants website, they’ll help create a virtual meadow of good wildflower sites across the country. A series of free guides and resources are downloadable from www.wildaboutplants.org. uk/beescene

Summer Fun

Farmer’s Markets

n Gloucestershire has a wonderful array of Farmer’s Markets giving children an opportunity to sample local produce straight from the supplier and try something new.

A selection to visit: Cheltenham Farmers’ Market: Promenade, Cheltenham on the second and last Friday of each month, from 9am to 3pm.

Cirencester Farmers’ Market: Market Place, Cirencester on the second and fourth Saturday of every month, from 8.30am to 1pm.

Nailsworth Farmers’ Market: Mortimer Gardens, Nailsworth on the fourth Saturday of every month, from 9am to 1pm.

Orchard Street Food And Craft Market: Gloucester Quays, Gloucester on the first weekend of every month, over the summer period.

Stow-on-the-Wold Farmers’ Market: Market Square, Stowon-the-Wold on the second Thursday of every month, from 9am to 1pm.

Stroud Farmers’ Market: Cornhill Market Place, Stroud every Saturday from 9am to 2pm.

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk www.twitter.com/familiesglos www.facebook.com/familiesglos

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July/August 2013

11

Summer Fun

Farm fun come rain or shine

la

Parabo Youth Theatre at Arts Centre

o weeks of holiday PAC are running tw by the exciting ed pir workshops, ins mp Co any, who are Propeller Theatre October. is th C PA coming to is friendly and The youth theatre new focus on creating welcoming, with a is ne yo er ev at ows so th characters and sh from me co le op pe g fully involved. Youn so rshire to take part, all over Glouceste en don’t th tre ea th h ut yo if you’re new to le will be too! worry - other peop hops will combine The summer works a , physical theatre, art , drama with film, me stu co g din ad and bit of Shakespeare ate design to cre props and lighting e PAC stage. th for s ow sh l origina nd encing Monday 22 Dates: Weeks comm th ly 2013 29 Ju July and Monday

2 years/ 13-18 years Ages: 6-8 years/ 9-1 tion visit For more informa centre.co.uk/ rts laa bo www.para youththeatre

Be a kee per for t h Cotswo ld Wildli e day at f e Is your Park

child ma d about animals ?

If so, this could b e the perf ect summe r treat!

New for th opportu is year is a uniq ue nity to g ob at Cotsw old Wild ehind the scen life Park e and bec & Garde s ome a J n u s n io r Keeper.

Children b years an etween the age d 12-16 s of (7-1 1 years) c chance an get th to gain e hands-o of work n exp ing collectio with a varied a erience nd excit n of anim in of the k eepers w als and meet so g me ho look a daily b after the asis. m on Each ch ild will w o rk with o a group of up to n four chil e keeper in For full d dren. etails an d visit ww w.cotsw availability plea oldwild s lifepark e .co.uk

12

July/August 2013

For family summer fun the Dick Whittington Farm Park is the place to visit. Rain or sunshine, there is plenty to do and see.

A huge indoor Play Barn is ideal for toddlers to ten year olds.

See the farm animals, aviary units, birds of prey, small pets, reptiles, insects and fish. Enjoy the Valley Nature Trails and feed some of the animals as you walk around the paddocks. There are daily pets encounter sessions during the holidays.

The outdoor electric go-kart course is very popular. Try the mini-digger, water blaster, and tractor and trailer rides.

And when you have worked up an appetite, the ‘Cat’s Whiskers’ restaurant offers a range of food and drinks for adults and children.

For more information visit www.dickwhittington.org

r ild’s passion fo Inspire your ch ps Cam food at Super

e inspiring SuperCamps ar at their od fo r fo n a passio in 2013. ps m ca er m m su their In addition to mps they ca ity tiv multi-ac two g are also runnin od’ .Fo r…

Fo n io ‘A Pass year 11 to courses for 7 usiasts and ung food enth yo at ed m ai olds . re of the futu th 31st possible chefs orkshop (29 w Us ith W ne e The Come Di e’ of what it’s lik children a ‘tast ga tin ea July) will give cr n, he tc staurant ki to cook in a re ld tempt any menu that wou d rie va d an full palate. th 16th August) tionery (12 – Creative Confec e children to designed for th ats! From is a workshop tre y st ta favourite ildren will produce their ch , es s to chocolat ke ca to ts ui sc bi ering culinary me mouthwat be bringing ho goodies. e held at Sir mmer camps ar SuperCamps su ns, Gloucester. ve le ng Lo School, Thomas Rich’s 22 or visit Call 01235 8322 .co.uk for more information ps www.supercam

land in Cirencester!

See what’s new at Magic

e farm with All the fun of th rm Day Camps Abbey Home Fa Farm Day Camp aged brings children to n ve ele eight to rm Abbey Home Fa gust.

Au d an ly Ju this ll Day campers wi get involved in fun and practical ing ities such as mak land-based activ planting , es bl ta ge ve g tin compost, harves g and en and collectin a pollinator gard ntly, rta po im t os m d grading eggs. An , local, us io lic de t and ea they will prepare ake the m n re suring child organic meals en fork. d an rm fa n ee betw vital connection a love instil in campers The team aim to ion iat ec rld, an appr for the natural wo ey will have a great d th for local farms an ess! time in the proc g ility and bookin For dates, availab 0 441, email Hope 5 64 please call 0128 op. eorganicfarmsh at education@th mshop. ar icf an rg eo th w. co.uk or visit ww -2013 ps am -c ay n/farm-d co.uk/educatio

Climb your way th rough summer at The W arehouse Climbing Centre in Glouces

ter!

The Warehouse Climbing Centre, Gloucester have a fun programme of events during the school holidays for 5-17 year-olds; if th ey’re new to climb ing and bouldering, th at’s great as they wi ll be taught everyth ing they need to kn ow with all activities su pervised by qualifie d Instructors.

If you are looking for something for everyone to enjoy together, why not book a Family Taster Sessi on and discover th e joys of climbing, follow ed by something tasty and great coffee fro m our Cafe-Bar? Please note, book ing is essential for all sessions.

For more details an d videos to view on line visit www.the-wa rehouse.co.uk

and multie 13,000 sq ft play area soft play area with a hug oor ind est larg s ire’ rsh Magicland is Glouceste enjoy. that the entire family can built for young babies and tiered soft play structure tastic new area is being fan A r. me sum this d lan gic nking new interactive Ma spa at nd e bra tim It is an exciting ry corner complete with sto a n, ldre chi er de to the car park. old ma ents have been pre-walkers and, for the er feedback, improvem tom cus ing ow gic shows. foll s, Plu ! games panels with face painting and ma for the summer holidays, d nne pla ies ivit act of ys!

There are plenty all in the summer holida al news. k forward to seeing you to get up-to-date magic r Laura and her team loo tte sle or sign up for a new ails det nt eve for .uk .co Visit www.magicland

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

Save on summer fun with childcare vouchers

Summer Fun

C

ash-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.

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. 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.

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. These include holiday camps, activity clubs and music lessons. It’s always worth asking!

Camp 4-2-11, based at St Edward’s School in Cheltenham and SuperCamps, based at Sir Thomas Rich’s School, Gloucester both accept childcare vouchers.

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

Activities galore at Camp 4 2 11 this summer!

in for Tatty Bumpk Come & join s!

Holiday Club her Summer

an extended comprises of Each session ure, followed spired advent ome craft Tatty yoga-in -h ke ta d ack an by a healthy sn as a special relaxation l el ! activities, as w calm & chilled your children be t time to leave us m s ar two to four ye Children aged hilst over fours may be w , accompanied h. left if you wis g three will be runnin st. You in pk m gu Tatty Bu Au throughout clubs a week es & prices etable, venu a tim a d can fin to purchase ity e opportun (including th at: rt!) .

Tatty Passpo /Cheltenham umpkin.com www.tattyb t contac ited so please Spaces are lim 0 925 090 or email 53 Andrea on 07 ttybumpkin.com @ta Cheltenham ur place. to register yo

Camp 4 2 11’s summer camp is packed full of amazing activities.

They run exciting themed weeks, workshops, and jam-pack the schedule with swimming, arts & craft, musical theatre, break dancing, zumba, gymnastics, go-karting, bouncy castles, facepainting, The Cotswold Farm Park, The Everyman Choir, treasure hunts, nature trails & bush craft for kids.

This OFSTED registered camp is based within the beautiful grounds of St. Edwards Junior School, London Road, Cheltenham.

They open at 8.45am and close at 4.00pm but early drop off and late pick-up are available - please ask for details.

Prices start from £25 per day and Childcare Vouchers are accepted.

For more information call 07825 630 751, email info@camp4211.co.uk or visit www.camp4211.co.uk

Your chance to Shine on Stage!

Join Shine on Stage from Monday 29th July to Friday 2nd August for their popular summer schools and put a show on in a week!

For 7 – 18 year olds, West End Sum mer School is a full week covering all three disciplines; singing, dancing and acting.

Students work with VIP tutors from shows such as The Lion King, Les Mise rables, and Mamma Mia and top London stage schools and institutions such as Pineapple studios and Italia Conti. The wee k culminates in a fully lit and cost umed show at The Cotswold Playhouse.

For 4 – 7 year olds, Sparkles Sum mer School is five half days jam pac ked with performing arts fun. The children rehearse a mini musical called The Little Red Hen and even make their own costume s! The Sparkles too perform their piec e on stage under the stage lights to their frien ds and family at Stroud High School whe re the summer schools take place.

For more information call 0845 5196455, email info@shineonstage.co.uk or visit www.shineonstage.co.uk.

Splash into summ

er with Turtle To

ts!

It’s a busy time for Turtle Tots with th e new Summer ter toddlers and mums m... meeting new -to-be! parents, babies an For existing custo d mers the highligh t is the underwate photographer capt r phot ures the amazing image of your baby o-shoot. A professional Sports Relief celeb swimming underw rity trainer, Profes ater! sor Greg Whyte ha Tots. Greg most rec s be come an ambassa ently trained David dor for Turtle Walliams, Eddie Izz has three children ard and the celeb of his own and ha rities who climbed s personally endo You can book onto rse Mount Kilimanjar d th e aqua natal yoga the Summer term o. He , baby and toddler throughout July so swimming classes.

For more informa come out of your tion visit www.turtl shell and learn to etots.com swim with Turtle To ts! www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July/August 2013

13

What’s On July/Aug

What’s On Please always phone before setting out in case details have changed since press or we got it wrong.

Days Out AT-BRISTOL Anchor Road, Bristol BS1 5DB 0845 345 1235 www.at-bristol.org.uk From 25 July. Make your own Gromit Meet a real-life Aardman model maker, who’ll help you make your very own Gromit. £3 in addition to standard admission.

Until 15 July. Kitchen Chemistry Live Lab Put your favourite foods under the microscope. Free with general admission From 16 July. Fly by Wire Engineering Challenge Live Lab Put your engineering skills to the test under the guidance of Rolls Royce experts. Free with general admission.

Explore Your Universe: Family show Regular shows at weekends and during school holidays. Bringing to life the latest discoveries in science – from atoms to astrophysics! Free with standard admission.

Little Stars Planetarium Show Weekends and school holidays at 2pm. Specially-designed Planetarium show for the under fives.

50p plus standard admission price.

From 18 July. Summer Night Sky Planetarium Show Join expert presenters for a tour of the Summer night sky. £1 plus standard admission price.

BRISTOL ZOO GARDENS Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA 0117 974 7300 www.bristolzoo.org.uk 26 July and 16 Aug. Sunset Specials Enjoy the Zoo as the sun goes down.

6:30pm -10pm. Adult £12, child £8, under 2’s FREE 20 July, 3 and 17 August. Film nights at Bristol Zoo Three nights of open air cinema.

20 July at 5pm The Lion King 3 August at 5pm A Bugs Life 17 August at 5pm Happy Feet Adult £8 and child £5 CATTLE COUNTRY ADVENTURE PARK Berkeley Heath Farm, Berkeley, Glos.

GL13 9EW 01453 810510 www.cattlecountry.co.uk Summer holiday activities include splash pool, a new activity trail, new farmyard arrivals – goats, Belted Galloway cattle, bison calves and Gloucester Old Spot piglets!

COTSWOLD FARM PARK Bemborough Farm, Kineton, Glos.

GL54 5UG 01451 850 307 www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk Visit the new Cotswold Farm Park conservation area which explains the importance of biodiversity and conserving and promoting wildlife in our countryside.

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July/August 2013

COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK & GARDENS Bradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire OX18 4JP 01993 823006 www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk 27 – 28 July and every weekend in August. Cotswold Falconry Flying displays of birds of prey.

3 and 10 August. ‘Wild Nights’ Tour A guided tour of the Park after hours (7 – 9pm), by knowledgeable animal Keepers. Children must be accompanied by an adult and supervised at all times. Adults £25 children £20.

DICK WHITTINGTON FARM PARK Little London, Longhope, Glos. GL17 0PH 01452 831000 www.dickwhittington.org Summer fun come rain or shine including animal encounters, gokarting and nature trails.

National Trust CHEDWORTH ROMAN VILLA Yanworth, Cheltenham, GL54 3LJ 01242 890256 www.nationaltrust. org.uk/chedworth-roman-villa 13 – 28 July. Festival of Archaeological hands-on activities.

Free with admission.

27–28 July. The Romans are Coming!

A taster of life in ancient Rome. Free with admission.

3 – 4 August. Dowsing at the Villa Learn dowsing techniques that will equip you with these unusual but sometimes useful and fun skills. Free with admission 24–25 Aug. Traditional Crafts Weekend Traditional crafts demonstrations, costumed interpretation and lots more. Free with admission.

DYRHAM PARK Dyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER (Sat Nav: SN14 8HY) 0117 937 2501 www. nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park Every Tuesday. Tuesday Toddler Trails Garden and park trail designed for toddlers lasting 30 – 45 minutes.

Meet at the Orangery at 10:45am 7 July. Love Food Festival Mouth-watering local produce to try and buy.

NEWARK PARK Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7PZ 01453 842644 www. nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park 19 July. Outdoor theatre – A Midsummer Night’s Dream Enjoy this production of the Bard’s classic comedy as you’ve never seen it before. Booking essential.

Adult £12.50, Child £8, Family £35 21 – 26 August. Teddy Bears Picnic Bring your teddy and see if you can find our teddy bears having their picnic before you have your own.

Free with admission.

PRINKNASH BIRD AND DEER PARK Prinknash Road, Matson, Gloucester GL4 8EU 01452 812 727 www.thebirdpark.co.uk 24, 27 and 31 July. Teddy Bears Picnic Include visiting and feeding all the animals of the park, face painting,

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

Kookaburra flying displays, a Teddy bears clinic will be held in Eider the new caravan and of course a picnic.

Tickets £10 per child.

SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Bowditch, Slimbridge, Glos. GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 www.wwt.org.uk/ visit/slimbridge To 31 Aug. Canoe Safari Grab a paddle and sail the watery passages of our canoe safari trail. Every day 11am–4pm weather permitting.

To 29 Sept. Saturday and Sunday only. Landrover safari.

Enjoy the opportunity to go out into the reserve in the company of an expert warden and enjoy views of the wild birds that live on the banks of the Severn. 11am and 2pm. Adult £5 plus admission, child £3 plus admission 20 July – 1 Sept. Every day. Nature Explorers Investigate British wildlife and habitats with fun activities bringing your family closer to nature than ever before. Included in admission.

24 August. Animal Antics.

Interactive workshop giving you an opportunity to meet millipedes, come face-to-face with cockroaches and hold snakes and reptiles. From 10am. Included in admission.

WESTONBIRT ARBORETUM Tetbury, Glos, GL8 8QS 01666 880220 www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt Kids go free 20 July – 1 September.

30 July – 1 August. Forest Folk Use the arboretum for inspiration and natural ‘stuff’ to create your own woodland goblin. 10:30am – 16:00. 3 years and over. No booking required. Free after admission. 6 – 8 August. Tree potions 6 -8 August. Tree potions Discover tree treatments for cancer, bird flu, sunburn and memory loss and make your own astronaut cream.

10:30am – 16:00. 3 years and over. No booking required. Free after admission.

13–15 Aug. Trees for time travellers Discover how Westonbirt started, daring plant hunters and a passion for plants. Includes crafts and a family trail. 10:30am – 16:00. 3 years and over. No booking required. Free after admission.

23 – 26 August. Wooden Wonders Discover how wood makes the world go round and then make your own wood products. 10:30am – 16:00. 3 years and over. No booking required.

Free after admission.

Museums CORINIUM MUSEUM Park Street, Cirencester, Glos.

GL7 2BX 01285 655611 www. coriniummuseum.cotswold.gov.uk 24 July. Medieval Knights family drop-in. £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus. 2.30 – 3.30pm 25 July. Discovering Archaeology children’s holiday workshop. £6 per child or £5 for season ticket holders. Booking essential. Suitable for ages 8 −16. 10am – 12 midday.

26 July. Saxon Jewellery family drop-in. £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

10:30am – 11:30am 30 July. Roman Shields Family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

10:30am – 11:30am 31 July. Printing Museum Objects children’s holiday workshop £6 or £5 for season ticket holders.

Booking essential. Suitable for ages 8 −16. 10am – 12 midday.

31 July. Jolly Jesters family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

10:30am – 11:30am 1 August. Discovering Pottery children’s workshop £6 or £5 for season ticket holders.

Suitable for ages 6 −14. Booking essential. 10am – 12 midday.

1 August. Roman Mirrors family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

10:30am – 11:30am 6 August. Animal Mobiles family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus. 10:30am – 11:30am 8 August. Mythical Masks family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

10:30am – 11:30am.

13 August. Stretchy Cavaliers family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

10:30am – 11:30am.

14 August. Centurion Masks family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

2:30pm – 3:30pm.

15 August. Roman Saddle Plates family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

10:30am – 11:30am 20 – 22 August. Medieval Illuminated Initials family drop-in £1 per child or free to season ticket holders. Suitable for 3yrs plus.

20 Aug, 10.30 – 11.30am 21 Aug, 2.30 – 3.30pm 22 Aug, 10.30 – 11.30am.

27 August. Know Your Own Town family workshop Join curator Amanda Hart to investigate the past of the town of Cirencester. Cost included in the price of admission. Booking essential.

10.30am – 12 midday.

DEAN HERITAGE CENTRE Soudley, Cinderford, Gloucestershire GL14 2UB 01594 822 170 www.deanheritagecentre.com 26 - 27 July. Meet the Gruffalo Meet your favourite orange-eyed and purple prickled monster and see the spectacular woodland trail based on the Gruffalo’s Child. For ticket prices and more information visit www.deanheritagecentre.com.

What’s On July/Aug 13 MUSEUM IN THE PARK Stratford Park, Stratford Road, Stroud GL5 4AF 01453 763394 www.museuminthepark.org.uk 24 July. Drop-in family fun: Toys & Games of the Past Enjoy Hula hoops and skipping games outside in the courtyard. All ages welcome. 11am – 4pm. FREE. 26 July. Drop-in family fun: Archaeology Day Take part in a mini-excavation and see what you can find and if you can correctly identify it. All ages welcome.

11am - 4pm. FREE 31 July. Punch & Judy Shows Traditional Victorian entertainment with Mr Punch and friends! Weather permitting. 12 noon, 2pm and 3pm. FREE 1-26 Aug. ‘ANCIENT WISDOM’ exhibition Explore ancient inventions and mechanical marvels. Hands-on fun for children of all ages! FREE 7 – 24 August. Drop in Holiday Workshops for young children For families with accompanied children aged 5yrs and over. 11am - 4pm. £1 per child, accompanying adults FREE. 7 - 10 August: Paper Mosaics - Birds & Beasts 14 - 17 August: Mini Museums - Coin Collections 21 - 24 August: Brilliant Board Games 6 August. Special holiday workshops: Magic Mosaics Explore the ancient art of mosaic making with local artist Robin James. £4 per child. Suitable for children aged 8yrs plus.

10:30am to 12:30pm and 2pm to 4pm.

Booking necessary - call 01453 763394 13 August. Special holiday workshops: Ancient Art Prints Join printmaker Christine Felce and create colourful prints inspired by patterns found on ancient Museum objects. £4 per child. Suitable for children aged 7yrs plus and their parents or grandparents. 10.30am - 12.30pm & 2pm - 4pm. Booking necessary - call 01453 763394 20 August. Special holiday workshop: Ancient Animation Join animator Seana Kozar, make a zoetrope and try some ancient animations of your own. For children aged 8 – 12yrs. 10.30am - 12.30pm & 2pm - 4pm. Booking necessary - call 01453 763394

Theatre CAMEO KIDS THEATRE SCHOOL Christ Church, Cheltenham, GL50 2JH 28 -30 August. “CAMEO Kids “ Experience An exciting drama, dance and singing course for 4-8 year olds. The three day experience concludes with a captivating performance to delight family and friends. 10am-12pm daily. For information call 01242 701755/07966 168005 or email Danella@cameo-stars.co.uk THE EVERYMAN THEATRE 7 - 10 Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ 01242 512 515 www.everymantheatre.org.uk 21 – 25 August. The Gruffalo’s Child Tall Stories Theatre Company returns,

bringing Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning sequel to life in this magical, musical adaptation.

THE GLOUCESTER GUILDHALL 23 Eastgate St, Gloucester GL1 1NS 01452 503050 www.gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall Mondays. LaLa Lounge (for parents with under 5’s) Meet your friends, chill and chat, treat yourself to tea, coffee or a light lunch while the little ones watch CBeebies.

10am – 1pm. Free entry.

PARABOLA ARTS CENTRE Parabola Rd, Cheltenham, Glos.

GL50 3AA 01242 707338 www. parabolaartscentre.co.uk Two weeks of summer workshops combining drama with film, art and physical theatre. Dates: Weeks commencing Monday 22nd July and Monday 29th July 2013. Ages: 6-8 years/ 9-12 years/ 13-18 years. See page 12 for more details or visit www. parabolaartscentre.co.uk/youththeatre THE ROSES THEATRE Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX 01684 295074 www.rosestheatre.org 25 July. Pinocchio With four versatile actors, puppets, catchy original music and lots of joining in, this show is guaranteed to please family audiences, particularly children aged four to nine. All tickets: £7.50.

Suitable for ages 3yrs plus.

1 August. There’s A Monster In My Piano An offbeat jazzy tale that stars puppets, clowning, animation and a very highly strung monster. 2pm. All tickets: £7.50.

Suitable for ages 4yrs plus 5 and 6 August. Play In 2 Days: Doctor Who Workshop at Mitten Manor Primary School, Carrant Rd, Tewkesbury, Glos.

GL20 8AR Join others as you create your very own time travel adventure. Over 2 days you will create a dazzling show to perform to your friends and family. 10am – 4pm. £40 per child. Suitable for ages 7 to 11 yrs.

7, 9, 13 and 14 August. Epic (U) The latest animated adventure from the creators of Ice Age and Rio is set in a hidden world unlike any other. 2.30pm.

8 August. Theo The Mouse Full to the brim with jokes, songs and magic, this delightful show is the perfect treat for anyone over two years of age. 2pm. Full price: £10, Concessions: £8 15 August. The Musicians Of Bremen What happens to old toys when no one loves them anymore? Toy Story meets the Brothers Grimm in this enchanting new production for children and adults.

2pm. All tickets: £7.50 . Suitable for ages 3 yrs plus.

16, 20 and 21 August. Despicable Me 2 (U) Gru, the girls and the unpredictably hilarious minions return along with a host of new and outrageously funny characters for another animated adventure. See website for times.

22 August. Postman Pat Live With songs, laughs and audience participation, together with brand new scenery and costumes, Postman Pat Live is a must-see show for 3-6 year

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

July/August 2013

15

What’s On May/Jun 13 olds this year. 1pm & 3.30pm. Adults: £12.50, Children: £10.50, Family ticket (4 people, max. 2 adults): £42.

23 – 29 Aug. Monsters University (U) In this prequel to Pixar hit Monsters Inc, we take a trip back in time to when Mike and Sulley were just two promising young students at Monsters University. See website for times.

SHINE ON STAGE 29 July – 2 August. Summer Workshops.

West End Summer School (7 – 18 year olds).

Sparkles Summer School (4 – 7 year olds) See page 13 for more information or call 0845 5196455, email info@ shineonstage.co.uk or visit www. shineonstage.co.uk.

THE WHITMINSTER INN Bristol Rd, Whitminster, Gloucester GL2 7NY 01452 740234 www.whitminsterinn.co.uk 7 July. Summer pantomime ‘Treasure Island’ Join young Jim Hawkins as he sails away to Treasure Island on his quest to find the hidden gold marked on Long John Silver’s map! Doors open 2:30pm. Adults £10, £5 child under 12 yrs. For tickets please call 01452 740234 or email info@ whitminsterinn.co.uk. Box office open Monday to Friday 9am – 6pm.

July/August 2013

NCT Events NCT Cheltenham nearly new sales All Saints Academy, Blaisdon Way Cheltenham GL51 0WH 7 September. Autumn/Winter clothes 10:30am – 12 midday For more information visit www.nct. org.uk/branches/cheltenham/nearlynew-sales Cheltenham Bumps and Babes: every Thursday, 10am - 12 midday at St Andrew’s United Reformed Church Hall, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham.

GL50 1SP. Suggested donation £1.50. Refreshments available from church café. For the programme of presenters, please visit www.nct.org.uk/ cheltenham or like our Facebook page www.facebook.com/nctcheltenham Cheltenham Waddlers and Toddlers: every Wednesday 10am - 12 midday at Charlton Kings Baptist Church hall, Church Street, Charlton Kings, Cheltenham. GL53 8AR. Suggested donation £1.50 per family.

Refreshments included. Dedicated baby area also available.

Gloucester Bumps and Babies: the drop-in group is on Tuesdays from 10:30am-12. Salvation Army Hall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester. For more information email GlosBumps@nct. org.uk or find the Bumps & Babies on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ groups/glosbumps/

www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

WIN a family ticket to see Postman Pat Live!

It’s the day of the Greendale karaoke talent show and a top talent scout will be on the lookout for a rising star. Postman Pat has a new karaoke machine to deliver for the show – but when the machine breaks down it looks like the talent show might be in jeopardy. Can Pat save the day?

For your chance to win a family ticket (includes two adults and two children tickets) to Postman Pat Live at the Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury on Thursday 22nd August simply visit: www.familiesgloucestershire.co.uk/competitions

Closing date Friday 2nd August 2013