Families Oxfordshire Magazine Mar-April 2015

Issue 66 - March/ April 2015

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Spring days out Homebirths What's on

Confidence Building Fun

Call 0845 400 1276 or visit perform.org.uk to find your nearest venue.

Try a Free Drama Class Families Oxfordshire - useful information for parents of 0 - 12's in Oxon.

Find us online at familiesoxfordshire.co.uk Oxfordshire Magazine March/ April 2015

want to make a difference? then become a host family for Bright World we are looking for families to offer a welcoming home to “My children benefit our students in their from the cultural experience short holidays of hosting as well as providing a valuable extra income to my family.”

Tracey Welding

Bright World Host Family

enquire online at

www.brightworld.co.uk

email: lindsay@brightworld.co.uk

Whole school open morning: Thursday 12 March OLA is an independent day school for boys and girls aged 3-18. We offer small class sizes, outstanding pastoral care and a wide range of academic and extra-curricular activities, ensuring our pupils are confident, engaged and excited about their next steps in life.

For further information, call 01235 523147 (Junior School) or 01235 524658 (Senior School), or visit www.olab.org.uk Radley Road 2

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Abingdon-on-Thames

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Oxfordshire Magazine Editor: Ema Murphy 01993 815966 - 07733 228 038 editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

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Next issue: May/ June 2015 Booking deadline: 1 April 2015 Copy deadline: 6 April 2015

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Education news

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Spring days out

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11 Childcare quiz: what's best for me?

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10 Business is baby booming for homebirths

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What to say when your child says i'm scared at bedtime?

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News & views

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In this issue...

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36,000 readers per issue Printed by Warners Designed by Rebecca Carr

13 More tips to get your child to drink water 14 What's on in March & April Competition winner to win a family ticket to Crocs of the World, Brize Norton, Oxfordshire is Mrs Celia Collins of Ducklington, Witney.

Can you deliver?

Oxfordshire

We are looking for distributors in Oxford.

If you have a few hours to spare every two months during term time and would like to earn some extra money, please contact us for more details. You must have a polite manner and be able to carry and have your own transport.

Contact Ema Call 01993 815966/ 07733 228 038 or email: editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

March/ April 2015

Junior entry at Reception, Year 3 and Year 5 Places still available for Year 2 Contact us now for information

T: 01865 318500 E: admissions@oxf.gdst.net

www.oxfordhigh.gdst.net

Oxfordshire Magazine 3

News & views

Get reading

News &Views

This spring, delve deep into your bookshelf and read something you’ve never read before, in honour of World Book Day. Throughout March and April schools, libraries and bookshops across the country are holding exciting events and workshops for young readers, plus you can register online for your free book token and choose from titles including Michael Morpurgo’s Best Mates and A Pirate’s Guide to Landlubbing by Jonny Duddle.

Mothering Sunday

It’s Mother’s Day this 15 March, so put your thinking cap on and come up with something special for mum, or start dropping hints for your partner and children to treat you! A day out with the family can really hit the spot, so why not check out our museums, stately homes, farm parks and National Trust properties in Oxfordshire, that are running special events. Many will let Mums go free, so it’s worth doing your research! That, with a lie-in and breakfast in bed, will provide the perfect day!

Real Nappy Week in April Celebrate Real Nappy Week on 20-26 April with the real nappy community's and everything fabulous about using cloth nappies. Up and down the country retailers, manufacturers, cloth nappy libraries, local councils and real nappy fans, will hold giveaways and events aiming to spread the word about how to save money, avoid waste to landfill and reduce your impact on global warming by using them. Discover the exciting things planned at www.goreal.org.uk/real-nappy-week

Become a foster carer The start of the year is the most popular month for foster carer applications, so why not make 2015 the year you join them? New research highlights that one child is taken into care every 15 minutes in England, and independent fostering agency Fostering Solutions is encouraging people across the UK to make a positive change in 2015 and become a foster carer. They are launching the Foster15 campaign specifically to highlight the shortfall. If you would like to find out more about being a foster carer with Fostering Solutions call 0800 160 1605 or go to www.fosteringsolutions.com

A home away from home

It’s also International Children’s Book Day on 2 April, the birthday of Hans Christian Andersen. International Children’s Book Day aims to inspire a love of reading from an early age, so check out the website to find out more about all of the events across here and the world, including competitions and talks from famous authors and illustrators.

You can also find out about a whole host of fabulous children's books you may never have heard of at www.ibby.org/index.php?id=269

Get your hat on for charity Remember to join in for Wear A Hat Day on Friday 27th March! The Premier Brain Tumour Awareness event in the UK; helping to support long-term, life-saving research helping move us ever #CloserToACure. There are so many ways to get involved. Register now to receive your free fundraising pack! www.braintumourresearch.org/wearahatday

Open Morning Thursday 7 May 9.30am-10.45am

Every year, thousands of overseas pupils ages 9-18 are educated at independent UK schools. When schools close for half terms and occasional weekends, these students need a ‘home away from home’. Pippa’s Guardians know their pupils well and go to great lengths to match them with well-suited host families. As well as a generous payment, other advantages to hosting include sharing your traditions, culture and language, and knowing you are helping a student during their time in the UK. Contact Imogen for more information on 01684252757, email: Imogen@pippasguardians.co.uk or visit the website: www.pippasguardians.co.uk

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4 March/ April 2015

F O O R P

ABINGDON PREP SCHOOL

A & R

Part of the Abingdon School Foundation

• Bus service for surrounding area • Wrap-around care • School holiday activities abingdon.org.uk/prep

tel: 01865 391570 www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

News & views

Preschool music classes hit just the right note

Access success for Oxford children

Attending a good preschool music class is now considered a 'must' by many parents, as the link between music and brain development has been so clearly demonstrated by scientific research.

In Oxfordshire, many parents are now getting their little ones off to a great start, at Clockwork Music classes.

In January The Story Museum celebrated Disabled Access Day, by providing a host of free accessible events to local children with special needs, along with Oxford charity SpecialEffect; dedicated to using technology to enhance the quality of life of people with physical disabilities. The children took part in a range of events with parents and carers including noisy story telling sessions, character exhibitions and sensory activities. The day is all about getting out and visiting a venue that you’ve never been to before - whether a cinema, coffee shop, sports centre or anywhere else. It’s for all disabled people and their families, and takes place in venues all over the country. Find out more: www.disabledaccessday.com. At Families Magazine we think this is fantastic.

As one happy mum said, 'My son loves this class and is getting a wonderful musical education whilst having masses of fun. It's the highlight of our week!'

Clockwork Music are also offering Families' readers a 10% discount on a first term booking, for any North and Central Oxford classes!

Call Claire on 07528146891, email claire@clockworkmusic.co.uk and quote Fam3415. www.clockworkmusic.co.uk

Take Part in national learn to play day The Matrix Music School in Sutton Courtenay is taking part in this national event, by offering free taster lessons to children aged between 4 and 7 years and information sessions to parents of children aged 3 years, on Sunday 22 March. The event is the ideal way to start, or get back into, playing a musical instrument. The UK charity, Music For All, has been working hard with partners to deliver a day that inspires the young and old. Jools Holland, Patron for the charity, said: “Whether you used to play or whether you have always wanted to play, this is the day for you.”

The Rainbow run returns on 24 May Helen & Douglas House once again are organising this family fun-run to raise money for the children, young adults and families in Oxfordshire who use the hospice service.

Runners, joggers and walkers will be showered with colours along the new 3km course at Cutteslowe Park, open to all ages and starts at 11am.

(Pictured: Gemma Radnor Nurse and Play Specialist at Helen House with Sian Davies, 17, from Wantage who uses Helen House).

Spring an summ d e shows r no bookin w g!

Join us for an Easter Eggstravaganza 3rd - 6th April Enjoy a host of fun family activities Easter Egg Hunt • Victorian Funfair Appearances by Peter Rabbit and the Easter Bunny Circus Skills Workshop • Face Painting Bouncy Castle • Punch & Judy Shows Easter Bonnet Competition • Chocolate Treats Butterfly House • Giant Hedge Maze

Inspiring and enriching young people through the performing arts.

Stagecoach offers the ideal balance of learning, performing and, of course, fun! Top quality training in drama, singing and dance to inspire creativity and develop young talent age 4-18.

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Oxfordshire Magazine 5

Parenting

Dark nights: what to say when your child says 'I'm scared' at bedtime

by Kathryn Mewes

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you sit on the floor and have a chat in the pitch dark.

Talk about day trips gone by or family holiday memories. This gives them something to think about when bedtime comes around.

Explain to them on how our body can relax far easier in the dark.

State the fact that the bedroom is the same whether in darkness or light.

Nothing changes when the light turns off.

State “Oh I love the darkness, my body instantly starts to relax.”

What to say to their comments as you leave the bedroom.

They say: “I need the light on.”

Reply promptly: “Nothing to see at bedtime.

Remember, your body grows when you sleep.”

I am sure you remember as a child the ‘delay tactics’ used to prevent bedtime arriving.

Times have changed but children haven’t.

They all push their boundaries and often the word ‘scared’ causes a strong reaction from a parent. The more you react the more the word ‘scared’ is used. The dark is a baby’s favourite place and this doesn’t change as children get older.

Unfortunately we make the mistake when we can be the ones that plant the seed in the child’s head.

We innocently make statements such as: • • • •

“Don’t worry, I am here.”

“I will leave the landing light on and then you will be OK.” “It is OK the dark won’t hurt you.”

“There is nothing to be scared of.”

By doing this we are flagging up the possibility for concern. This alarms the child and before you know it they are saying: “I am scared, you need to leave the light on!” “Don’t go, I need you here.”

What’s the best approach?

Many children reach the stage of wanting to ‘change up’ the bedtime routine by demanding more stories, the light on, the door open, a drink – believe me I have heard them all!

It is best to talk through the bedtime routine with your child once they are aged 18 months or older.

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• • • •

Talk while they are in the bath: “Now, after bath time we are going to stay upstairs.

We are going into your bedroom to have 2 stories. After story time we are going to have a big hug and then I will say ‘See you at breakfast time’. The light will be turned off and I will close the door as I leave.”

To children aged 3 and older I let them know: The only time children grow is when they are asleep.

If there is light in your bedroom your brain tells your body it is daytime and then it is difficult to fall to sleep.

The moment the room is dark your body relaxes, falls to sleep and starts to grow!

It is so important to remain consistent. The moment you start letting your child dictate the bedtime routine things can start to go terribly wrong.

When they claim they are ‘Scared of the dark’.

I suggest you: •

Sit in the room during the early evening with your child. They lay on their bed,

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They say: “Stay with me.”

Reply: “Lay and relax and think of the day we went to the zoo. Name all the animals in your head. I love you very much, see you at breakfast time.”

They say: “I am scared.”

Reply: “You are in your beautiful room, your cosy bed. That is a silly word to use at bedtime. Lay and relax and think of everyone in your class. Try and say all of their names and then all the teachers names in the school.

See you at breakfast time.”

The key is to keep calm and not to over complicate the situation. When your child claims they are scared promptly reassure them.

We need to turn our lights off to the world – that is how we rest and grow.

For further information and advice on guiding your child to sleep at night why not read the book The 3 Day Nanny by Kathryn Mewes, or go to her website to find out about her bespoke service www.bespokenanny.com

littlewildthings.org.uk littlewildthings@outlook.com 07855 625402

outdoor nature play for children

Mud painting...find a frog... race a snail...dig for treasure...

Join us for a wild woodland adventure! www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Education news

A cultural lesson for your family at the breakfast table?

The UK remains one of the most popular destinations for International Students in search of a prestigious, reputable education at a UK Boarding School. Foreign students continue to flock to the UK to achieve their goals and expand their horizons. Here they are presented with the unique opportunity to develop life skills that will aid them in their future working life and in relationships; shaping their personality and determining who they become.

Bright World Guardianships is a long established Guardianship organisation, charged with offering care to international students whose parents are not living here. These brave and bright scholars who come to UK boarding schools do so alone, leaving their parents back home. All boarding schools close for short school holidays and during these times it is the goodwill of our trusted host families that we as guardians call upon.

Although the Host Family role is a paid one and does provide a valuable extra income, it is much more than this. Hosting a young international student can make their entire experience in the UK a happy one. If you welcome a student into your home they will actually look forward to exeats and half terms and their overall experience and impression of the UK will be enhanced.

Your children will also benefit from this exposure, simply by sharing their home for a week or so. During this time they will learn about new cultures and countries and will have the opportunity to interact with a young person from a completely different culture and background.

“Hosting an international student from my child’s school has been such a rewarding experience. We love providing a home from home when they can’t return to their families and half terms. It has given lots of fun and cultural experience for us all and is one that we will remember always.”

Bright World Host Family Within the cosmopolitan, culturally diverse world in which we live, contact such as this is invaluable and can only aid your children in their future life and work; where cultural understanding is especially key. Think of it as a geography and culture lesson at your breakfast table. For more information on becoming a host family for Bright World Guardianships, please contact Lindsay Gayler, Host Family Recrutiment Manager lindsay@brightworld.co.uk. Alternatively visit the website and complete the online host family enquiry form. www.brightworld.co.uk

Sign up for free maths and English activities Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis. On the 31 March or 14 April, your local Explore Learning centre, at Sainsbury’s, Heyford Hill in Oxford, will be hosting a day of free workshops for children ages 5-14 in the local community. Spaces are limited so call to reserve your place or to book a free trial visit the website: www.explorelearning.co.uk

Building for the future at Rye St Antony Visitors to Rye St Antony School will receive an even warmer welcome with the completion of their brand new reception area. The newly architect designed reception area is part of a £2m project to improve facilities at the independent Catholic school for girls aged from 3 to 18 and boys aged 3 to 8, founded in 1930.The extensive building work at Rye St Antony, has been completed on time and includes a light, spacious and welcoming reception area, a home economics suite and ICT centre. All visitors are welcome to a guided tour of the new facilities. Those wishing to view them should contact the Registrar, Fern Saxton, on 01865 762802. www.ryestantony.co.uk

EXCELLENT in all categories, ISI 2014 Specialist music curriculum for babies from 3 months to 4 year olds in four progressive classes Oxford Town Centre, Summertown and Kennington : claire@clockworkmusic.co.uk (or 07528 146891) Thame, Headington, Abingdon : karen@clockworkmusic.co.uk (or 07757 011539)

www.clockworkmusic.co.uk March/ April 2015

SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN EVENING 30 APRIL

Please join us for Senior School Open Evening on Thursday 30 April, 6.30pm – 8.30pm For more information please contact our Director of Admissions on 01491 651 218 or admissions@cranfordhouse.net.

www.cranfordhouse.net Telephone: 01491 651218 An independent school, boys from 3 - 7, girls from 3-16

Registered Charity Number: 280883

Oxfordshire Magazine 7

Local days out

Spring days out

Easter Eggstravaganza at Blenheim Palace Blenheim Palace has an eggcellent Easter weekend planned for all the family to enjoy from 3-6 April. The Pleasure Gardens will transform into a traditional Victorian fairground with a Lighthouse Helter Skelter, Victorian carousel, tea cups and Victorian swing boats.

Get face-to-face with a Croc this spring!

It’s an exciting time at Crocodiles of the World, who, may not be hatching baby crocodiles yet (as they tend to hatch late summer), but it definitely feels like spring is bringing new beginnings for this exciting Oxfordshire attraction.

At the UK’s only crocodile zoo, their aim is to educate and inform visitors about their amazing animals and conservation and they now have a dedicated education officer to oversee all educational visits both at the zoo, and offsite. Crocs of the World are also opening a new education room for school trips, groups and special events. Spring will also see the building of a new enclosure for their giant tortoises, plus some exciting new arrivals who are certain to bring a new outdoor space to life! With fascinating talks and animal handling, a trip to Crocodiles of the World in Brize Norton is a great day out come rain or shine!

To find out more about the educational visits please contact: education@crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk or call 01993 846353.

Families can see Punch & Judy Shows, take part in Circus Skills Workshops, admire Stilt-Walkers and have their faces painted over the four day celebration!

To add to the eggcitement there will be an Easter Trail running and on Easter Sunday and Monday, children can meet Peter Rabbit and the Easter Bunny. Children can also get crafty and make Easter Bonnets and families can stay entertained in The Pleasure Gardens with the permanent features, including the giant Marlborough Hedge Maze, The Butterfly House and the Adventure Playground. With plenty to entertain don’t miss this family fun-filled Easter weekend!

Take a Walk on the WILD SIDE this Easter Stroll around the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens and get eye-to-eye with Giraffe, walk with Lemurs, watch Rhinos graze on the Manor House lawns or take a ride on Bella the train. Explore the tree-house adventure playground with interconnecting rope bridges, slides and mini Manor House for under 5s.

The stunning gardens and beautiful parkland make a beautiful backdrop to the animals. With over 260 different animal species in over 120 acres, there’s plenty of space to relax and get closer to wildlife!

Faringdon Folly Tower and Woodland For a real change this spring why not visit the unusual 100ft tower hailed as 'Britain's finest 20th century Folly Tower' and 'One of the most important follies in Britain'. It sits on Folly Hill, within a charming circular woodland of Scots Pine and broadleaf trees, some over 200 years old. See the amazing views over five counties and find out about the history of Folly Hill, Henry James Pye (of Sing a Song of Sixpence fame), Oliver Cromwell and seek out the 24 black birds, the giant willow pie, Cromwell’s cannon and more!

Have a great Day out with Thomas!

Thomas & Friends return to the Watercress Line for more family fun from 3-12 April.

Shake hands with the Fat Controller, meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, take part in Thomas themed activities and ride the big steams trains all day! Free Thomas sticker and certificate for every child! Free Thomas activities, bouncy slide, tea cup ride, children’ entertainer and Thomas tattoos! And even free rides with Thomas, Toad and Diesel!

It’s a great value family day out, not to be missed! Make their day a ‘Day out with Thomas’ and book tickets online at www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk to get your free gift or simply pay on the day. (See online for fares, which include all day travel on the trains and all free entertainment.).

8 March/ April 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

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ISI Inspection Report 2014

OPEN DAY

Tuesday 17 March 2015 9.30am-11.30am For more details please contact: Mrs Karen Copson 01235 858462 admissions@manorprep.org Faringdon Road, Abingdon, Oxon OX13 6LN www.manorprep.org

We’re looking for boys with great potential Our Foundation Awards can provide up to 100% of the fees for boys who are currently in state education.

Candidates should show strong academic potential and, ideally, be keen contributors to music, art, drama or sport. Radley is a leading boys’ boarding school set in beautiful grounds just 4 miles south of Oxford.

Awards are open for boys at 11+ or 13+. If your son shows great potential and would enjoy boarding school life, we’d love to hear from you.

Entry and assessment details can be found online. radley.org.uk 01235 543174

March/ April 2015 33243-RC-Found-Families-Oxon-AW.indd

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Oxfordshire Magazine 9 06/02/2015 09:18

Parenting

Business is (baby) booming for homebirths and independent midwives New guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) have confirmed that homebirths and midwife-led centres are ‘best for many mothers’. And, with evidence that giving birth at home is often as safe for babies as in hospital, it certainly looks to be the way childbirth is headed. A home birth can give you the space and time to deliver the way you want, with evidence showing that homebirths and midwife-led births often have lower rates of intervention, as women are more comfortable in their environment and are assisted by midwives they know and trust. No wonder they are booming!

As this boom continues the demand for midwife-led care and independent midwives, particularly where the service

is not offered by the NHS, is growing.

We all understand the importance of continuity of care, and dream of the same midwife accompanying us throughout our pregnancy, through birth and into the post natal period.

across the country so that all mothers-tobe can have the choice of a midwife-led or home birth, if they want one. At the moment 9 out of 10 babies in England and Wales are born in doctor-led obstetrics units in hospital, however the new guidelines say that 45% of women are at extremely low risk of complications and may be better off giving birth elsewhere – especially those who have already had at least one child. In the meantime, many women are turning to independent midwifes to get the birth and continuity of care they want, either at hospital or at home, and hiring one of these fully qualified midwives who work outside of the NHS to oversee everything.

The College of Midwives is calling for more midwife-led units to be set up

Take a look at Independent Midwives UK to find out more. www.imuk.org.uk

Parents poll on school holidays

The survey was launched on the website of Parents Want a Say who have been campaigning for over 18 months to reverse the amendments made to term time family holiday rules. Respondents will be in with the chance of winning a free iPad Mini.

Prior to 1st September 2013, head teachers had the discretion to allow up to 10 days authorised absence from school during term time. Now head teachers are only able to grant leave to pupils under

“exceptional circumstances”, however no guidance has been provided by the Government to define what this means.

As a result of the amendments to term time holiday rules, if a parent’s request for leave is unauthorised, each parent may be fined £60 per child, rising to £120 if not paid within 21 days. If the fine is unpaid after 28 days court proceedings can be initiated with a fine of up to £2,500 and a possible jail sentence of up to three months.

There has been much controversy surrounding the fining of parents who have taken their children out of school during term time.

Craig Langman, Co-Founder of Parents says: “For changes to be made, we need your help. We therefore invite everyone interested in the issue to have their voice heard by taking part in the survey.” Do so at: www. parentswantasay.co.uk/parents-want-asay-conduct-online-survey/

Image ©M&Co

Thousands of parents throughout the UK are being urged to take part in a nationwide poll on the controversial issue of school term time absences.

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Dance lessons in Oxford & surrounding areas for children of all ages and abilities.

Opportunities to enter competitions, or to simply enjoy freestyle disco and commercial dancing taught by professionals.

Classes held in Bicester, Botley, Cowley, Witney & Woodstock

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Childcare

Childcare quiz There are a whole host of factors to take into account in working out what childcare is going to be best for you and your child or children. Joanna Moorhead guides you through the questions you need to ask yourself - and offers a key to what kind of care your answers might point towards.

1. How many children do you have?

Different forms of childcare suit different sizes of family, primarily for cost reasons. For example, even though some nurseries offer reductions for a second child your bill for two children is still going to be a lot more than it will be for one, whereas with a nanny the cost is the same whether it's one child or three, because you pay for the nanny's time.

SCORE 1 per child; plus 1 if there's a high chance you'll be pregnant again in the next 18 months.

2. What ages are your children?

The younger your youngest child is, the more individually-tailored care you're likely to need.

SCORE 3 if your youngest is under a year 2 if he/she is under two years 1 if he/she is three-plus 3. Do you live in a rural or an urban area?

The more populous your area, the more childcare options there will be available, in terms of more nurseries, and a higher number of childminders. If you live somewhere really remote, hiring a nanny might be the only option.

SCORE 3 for a rural area 2 if you live in the suburbs 1 if you're an urbanite pm ay9.s30am - 3 D n ril

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What's best for me?

4. Are you a single parent?

If so you're likely to have less back-up, but also a lower disposable income.

SCORE 2 if yes

5. How much disposable income do you have?

The money you spend on childcare is less about what you've got left over and more about investing in your career for the future.

But you still need to have some spare income to pay for it.

SCORE 3 if you have what you'd consider a high disposable income 2 if medium 1 if low 6. Is your work predictable?

Knowing you're going to start and finish work at the same time each day makes nursery a much more realistic option than if you're likely to be called in to your workplace at the drop of a hat, or in the middle of the night, or if you might end up staying until the early hours with little or no warning.

SCORE 1 for yes 3 for no 7. Do you have a long commute?

You need to add travel time to your working hours, and if you're commuting a long distance a nursery or a child-minder might be trickier.

SCORE 3 for yes

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8. Do you have a spare bedroom?

A live-in nanny needs a place to sleep; though if you don't have the space, you can still consider sharing a nanny who lives in the other family's home.

SCORE 3 for yes 9. Does your child have an allergy or health issue of any kind?

A health issue could make a nanny the best bet, because her care can be concentrated on your child and all activities/meals/outings can be planned with your child at the centre.

SCORE 3 for yes 10. Are you a 'laissez faire' or a 'controlling' parent?

If you're the kind of parent who's going to be happy to leave your child-carer to make decisions on your behalf through the day, you're probably going to be happier with a childminder or nursery setting than if you want to be able to lay down exactly what you want to happen while you're at work.

SCORE 1 for laissez faire 3 for controlling

SCORES Up to 10 Could a nursery be the right choice for you? Look round some of the nurseries in your area and see what your instinctive feel about them is. Nurseries provide more structured care that can suit many families, though it's harder for them to cater for parents who work very long or unpredictable hours.

10-20 Are you the perfect fit for a childminder? For families who like the idea of childcare in a different setting from home, with other children but with some flexibility on timings, this can be a perfect option - and child-minders tend to be lower-cost than nurseries or nannies.

20-30 If you have the space and the income, hiring a nanny means you can provide care that's tailored precisely to your child or children. Plus if your family is still expanding, a nanny can be a costsaver in the long term.

We hope you enjoyed this quiz, it is just to make you think of your options in a different way and it may not provide the correct answer for you!

Oxfordshire Magazine 11

12 March/ April 2015

www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

Health

Top tips to get your child to drink more water Star of CBBC’s Gastronauts Stefan Gates is sharing his tips to encourage children to drink more water, along with the Natural Hydration Council (NHC) and Children’s Food Trust.

Stefan’s tips for parents:

The Wise up with Water campaign was launched after an NHC survey found significant gaps in children’s knowledge and behaviour about healthy hydration.

1. Help your children to decorate their own personalised water bottle, so they feel ownership over their own drinking habits.

The survey revealed that one in 10 (9.4%) of the 7-9 year olds surveyed, believed that the body can survive without water.

Make water more fun

2. Ask your child to count how many bottles or cups of water your family drink each day. They’ll be surprised at how the numbers rack up and it can turn something mundane into a fun game.

Only half (51%) of children questioned said they drank water at 3. Fun ice cubes can make a drink of water into an adventure. Fill an school, with four in ten (40%) having to be told to drink water by their ice tray with slices of strawberries, grapes, blueberries or raspberry parents. More than a third (35.1%) do not drink water when thirsty and before putting it in the freezer. Add to beakers of water when desired. over 40% (42.4%) don’t whilst playing sport or exercising.

Experiment Stefan said, “Water is essential for life, but it’s clear from this research that most kids don't know or care about the right amount they need to 4. Cut an apple and weigh the slices, leave them out on a plate for a be healthy and happy. And telling kids 'you'll be healthier if you drink week. Weigh the apple slices daily and record the weight. Ask your more water' is doomed to fail, just like all adult finger-wagging. children to think about why it loses weight as it dries up and they’ll soon start thinking about the importance of water.

“My job is to take boring, complicated but vital ideas like hydration and make them fascinating and inspiring for everyone age seven to 70.

5. Demonstrate how a wilting plant, such as basil, will perk up once it That’s why I’m dead excited about this campaign, and about teaching has water to rehydrate its cells. the nation’s kids some amazing things about the wacky world of water.”

6. Make sure you get into the habit of drinking water in front of your children.

For more information on the Wise up with Water campaign, visit: www.childrensfoodtrust.org.uk/schools/wise-up-with-water

7. Develop their taste for it by adding ice, a slice of lemon or a curly straw.

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01/08/2012 14:55 13 Oxfordshire Magazine

What's on

What's on in March & April

For a comprehensive list of what’s on at each venue please refer to the websites. We can only include a small number of events, space depending. Families cannot be responsible for any changes of dates or other details.

Theatre Looking for Elvis - The Stagecoach Oxford Charity Spectacular!

8 March New Theatre, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG The talented youngsters from Stagecoach Theatre Arts Oxford present 'Looking for Elvis', an action packed musical, full of energy, fun, song and dance to entertain the whole family. The youngsters gather to produce a show for local charities. £14.50 - £22.00 (booking fees may apply). www.atgtickets.com Whatever The Weather 22 March The North Wall, South Parade, Oxford, OX27 7JN 11pm & 2pm The M6 Theatre Company in association with Polka Theatre, presents an imaginative new production set in the charming world of a traditional Alpine Weather House. £7. www.northwall.com I Believe in Unicorns 1-4 April Oxford Playhouse, 11 Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2LW £12, £10, £39 I Believe in Unicorns is a spellbinding story by Michael Morpurgo, one of our greatest living storytellers. He has written some of the best loved books of all time, including War Horse and Private Peaceful. Theatre Alibi’s production is the perfect Easter treat. Ages 6-12 and families. www.oxfordplayhouse.com Please always check with the venue before attending any events listed in case details have changed since we went to press

Sammy and the Snow Leopard 31 March -1 April Pegasus, Magdalen Road, Oxford, OX4 1DY 11am, 2.30pm, 4pm Sammy loves animals, but his mum won’t let him have any in the house. When he discovers he can adopt a Snow Leopard, he embarks on a series of adventures which turn his world around! £9, £6 (conc) www.pegasustheatre.org.uk The Journey Home 25 April The North Wall, South Parade, OX27 7JN 11pm & 2pm Little Angel Theatre presents The Journey Home, the acclaimed children’s book by award-winning author Frann Preston-Gannon.

Brought to life through puppetry, lyrical music and transformative design. £7. Ages 3+ www.thenorthwall.com

Diary Dates Free family friendly fun Every Sun from 1 March Pitt Rivers Museum, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW Visit Pitt Rivers Museum and Oxford University Museum of Natural History for relaxing afternoons. Try activity backpacks, sorting boxes, trails, colouring sheets, story corner and craft activities. For all ages.

2pm-4pm. www.prm.ox.ac.uk Guided nature walks First Sunday of the month Ewelme Watercress Beds Nature Reserve, Ewelme, Oxfordshire, OX10 6HQ Take a guided walk with guides through nature reserve next to the watercress beds. Adults £3, children free.

HAVE A WILD TIME

AT THE UK’S ONLY CROCODILE ZOO! • Crocodile encounters and handling • Birthday parties • Keeper experiences and much more!

Book tickets online and plan your visit at www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk 14 March/ April 2015

Buzzing Bees 5 March Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW 10.30am-12.30pm and 2pm-4pm Watch the bees working, make a bee puppet and join in with the waggle dance. Suitable for under 5's. Drop-in. www.oum.ox.ac.uk Talent Pool for Parents 6 March Oxfam, John Smith Drive, Oxford, OX4 2JY www.oxfam.org.uk 9.30am – 11.15am Families are invited to explore the world of flexible work, to connect skilled professionals seeking a work/life balance – perhaps because they have young children.

Dancin' Oxford 2015 7 March Pegasus, Magdalen Road, Oxford, OX4 1DY It may be cold and wet but that won’t stop Dancin' Oxford from taking to the streets with some free outdoor events for everyone. Find them in Broad Street with a series of captivating performances. www.dancinoxford.co.uk Modern Art Trolley Each Saturday of the month Modern Art Oxford, 30 Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP 1pm-3pm The Modern Art Trolley offers free art activities linked to the exhibition, led by art students and artists for families to enjoy together. Children must be accompanied by an adult. www.modernartoxford.org.uk

Pitt Stops Every Saturday of the month Pitt Rivers Museum, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW 1pm-4pm Fun ways to explore the Museum and discover more about the exciting collections.

Make something super to take home. Suitable for all ages - held on the first Saturday of the month. www.prm.ox.ac.uk Artefacts within Schools Project 13 March East Oxford Community Classics Centre, Cheney School, Oxford, OX3 7QH A drinks reception to launch the second phase of the project to develop the artefact collection at the centre. 01865 765726.

Celebrate Shakespeare Week 14-15 March & 21-22 March Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2PH Celebrate national Shakespeare Week with this special family trail and Shakespearian make-and take paper craft activity. Available at the Family Activity Station. www.ashmolean.org/ FAMtastic Storytelling Yoga 14 March The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP Enjoy favourite stories while learning simple movement, breathing and relaxation exercises. Ages 3-5. £3 per person on the door. www.storymuseum.org.uk Wow! How? 14 March Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW 10am-4pm Make, test, explore, and explode

Pippa’s Guardians

Do you have a spare room in your house?

Become a Host Family for an international pupil from a local boarding school. It doesn’t matter what age you are!

Occasional weekends and half terms only Good daily payments See www.pippasguardians.co.uk To contact us call Ben Hughes on 01684 252757 or email: ben@pippasguardians.co.uk

Pippa’s Guardians Accredited Member of AEGIS

Payment ❘ Companionship ❘ New cultures ❘ Friendship www.familiesoxfordshire.co.uk

What's on with excitement at the annual bonanza of science experiments and hands-on fun. www.oum.ox.ac.uk Mother's Day at the Castle 15 March Oxford Castle Unlocked, 44-46 New Road, Oxford, OX1 1AY 10am-5.30pm This Mother’s Day, enjoy a treat by taking your mum to Oxford Castle Unlocked. (Last tour 4.20pm) Mum's go free! www.oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk The Blewbury Spring Food and Craft Fair 21 March Blewbury Village Hall, Blewbury, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 9ED 10.30am-3.30pm This year brings an even wider range of artisans together, and food lovers will be delighted with what’s on the lunch menu. All proceeds will go to Blewbury PreSchool. £1.50. Children free. More info call Lucy Pritchard, 07799 553 510.

Oxfordshire Goes Wild!

11 April Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, OX1 3PW 12 noon-4pm Take part in craft activities and games and meet live reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals. A joint event with Wild Oxfordshire. All ages. (drop-in.) www.oum.ox.ac.uk Puppets Go Wild - The Grow Show 12 April Pegasus, Magdalen Road, Oxford, OX4 1DY 11am & 2pm Join Emma Boor and some fabulous characters as they share exciting stories packed with puppetry, interactive songs and gentle clowning. Plus a chance to meet the stars after the show. £5.

Ages 4+ www.pegasustheatre.org.uk Wonderstuff - The Magic of Modern Materials 24 April Oxford Playhouse, 11 Beaumont Street, OX1 2LW 5pm-6.15pm Join scientists and broadcasters Mark Miodownikand Andrea Sella as they explore the scientific wonders of the everyday ‘stuff’ we take for granted. From cardboard to plastic, concrete to the new age of graphene, aerogels and chocolate! / £7 (£5 conc) www.live@scienceoxford.com Growing Happy Together 25 April Global Retreat Centre, Nuneham Courtenay, Oxford, OX44 9PG 2pm-4.30pm An uplifting afternoon workshop for parents and children (ages 4-8) exploring different living values in a creative fun way.

Booked essential. www.globalretreatcentre.org On Your Bike 2015 26 April Sonning Common Primary School, Grove Road, Sonning Common, Oxon, RG4 9RJ 10.30am Join hundreds of other families on their bikes to ride around the leafy lanes around Sonning Common.

It's a feel-good ride, not a race!

How far? You choose: 6, 12 or 20 miles! (or if you're very little, just around the playground).

Easter activities Take a Walk on the Wild Side!

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Bradwell Grove, Burford, OX18 4JP Stroll around the Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens and get eye-to-eye with Giraffe, walk with

Lemurs, watch Rhinos graze on the Manor House lawns or take a ride on Bella the train. www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Lambing Weekend 21-22 March & 28-29 March Earth Trust, Little Wittenham, Oxford, OX14 4QZ 10am-4pm Earth Trust’s annual lambing weekend in partnership with Little Wittenham Lamb. £6 adult, £3 child, £15 family, FREE for Earth Trust Friends. www.earthtrust.org.uk/events Easter Fun with Crocs!

Crocodiles of the World Burford Road, Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, OX18 3NX Visit the UK’s only crocodile zoo for fun and education over the Easter period. See their amazing animals and conservation and they now have a dedicated education officer to oversee all educational visits both at the zoo, and offsite. www.crocodilesoftheworld.co.uk Eggstraordinary Eggventure Trail 28 March-12 April Oxford University Museum of Natural History, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PW Families Eggsplore the Museums with an eggciting egg-hunter's trail. Joint with the Pitt Rivers Museum. Drop-in. www.oum.ox.ac.uk Story Telling with Petr Horacek 29 March The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP 2pm-3pm Meet award-winning illustrator Petr Horácěk, creator of Puffin Peter, Suzy Goose and Animal Opposites. Petr will tell stories, share drawings from his books and help you create a bright, bold… for children of pre-school age. Book

via the Oxford Literary Festival website. £6 www.storymuseum.org.uk/ Little Explorers 31 March Earth Trust, Little Wittenham, Oxford, OX14 4QZ 10am-11.30am Sensory buggy walk for babies and toddlers to learn about the natural world; smell, touch, taste, listen and look! £4 donation per child, accompanying adult(s) free. www.earthtrust.org.uk/events Clockwork Music Easter Specials 1 April & 8 April Barefoot Books, 294 Banbury Road, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7ED 10am & 11am Join the Clockwork Music team for two days of Easter fun with Easter Eggs-travaganza’s and going to the zoo for pre-schoolers and toddlers. Check online for details and bookings. £5.50 per child. www.clockworkmusic.co.uk Easter Bunny Hunt 3-6 April Waterperry Gardens, Nr Wheatley, Oxford, OX33 1JZ Join in the fun for an Easter bunny Hunt for all the family to enjoy! www.waterperrygardens.co.uk Easter Egg Trials 3-6 April Waddesdon Manor, Nr Aylesbury, HP18 0JH Can you be an Eggsplorer? Join the Easter detective trail around the gardens. All successful detectives receive a Cadbury chocolate 'Egghead' prize. Last trail 4.00pm. £3 per trial. Normal admission applies. www.waddesdon.org.uk

Wednesday 1 to Saturday 4 April

I BELIEVE IN UNICORNS From the book by Michael Morpurgo Adapted by Daniel Jamieson

The perfect Easter treat for everyone aged 6 to 12 and their families.

Tickets £12 adults £10 children Family ticket £39 (four tickets inc. up to two adults)

01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com March/ April 2015

Oxfordshire Magazine 15

Visitors are welcome throughout the year, please just telephone the Registrar, Fern Saxton to make an appointment.

Independent Catholic boarding and day school for 400 girls aged 3-18 (and day boys aged 3-8)

Pullen’s Lane, Oxford OX3 0BY

01865 762802

enquiries@ryestantony.co.uk www.ryestantony.co.uk

April 815 2015966 to advertise with us 16 March/ Call 01993

Big enough to challenge: small enough to care

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