Families Thames Valley East March/April 22

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Thames Valley East

IN THIS ISSUE

What’s On Education Parenting

Issue 119 March/April 2022 familiesonline.co.uk

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Small School Big Benefits Meadowbrook delivers what others can’t…

Co-ed Prep School & Nursery Rising 3 – 11 years

Aiming high - flying higher

…staff who know pupils better…teaching & learning tailored to individual & not whole class needs…greater social confidence…a more inclusive sense of community…pupils who genuinely value & enjoy learning...parents who benefit from closer relationships with the school…

Through a combination of Montessori inspired practice, the National Curriculum, Growth Mindset & Positive Discipline, Meadowbrook offers a unique, highly personalised approach to child-centred education without compromising on standards.

Excellent preparation for secondary school & beyond in a firm but fair, loving & stress-free environment.

To book your visit call us on 01344 890869 or email admin@meadowbrook.uk Find out more at www.meadowbrook.uk

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“Excellent in all areas” - most recent ISI Inspection

To book a tour, call 01753 541075 or email registar@etonend.org Eton End School 35 Eton Road Datchet Berkshire SL3 9AX www.etonend.org

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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Contents ...endless ideas for families of young children in Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

In This Issue News & information EDUCATION 8 Open days 9 Help, we didn’t get our first choice school!

10 Parental pressure 12 Meet the head: Highfield Prep 13 How important is spelling?

15 Tidy bedrooms and school performance EARLY YEARS 16 Play for nurturing emotional intelligence PARENTING 17 Tackling childhood fears 18 BOOK CLUB 19-21 WHAT’S ON PARENTING 22 Top apps every parent needs 23 Talking to kids about racial discrimination

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Thames Valley East

@FamiliesTVE

From the Editors….

With spring in the air and the Easter holidays just around the corner, we’re looking forward to some quality family time and our What’s On guide on pages 19-21 has some great suggestions on how to spend it. If you’re anxiously waiting to find out the results of your school application, our article page 9oflooks Please find belowon a proof your advertisem at what to do if you don’t get your first choice.

There’s also advice tackling January/February 2017 on issue (No. 88) of Fam childhood fears on page 17 and talking to kids about racial discrimination on page 23. Plus, we chat to the Head of Highfield School school on page 12 IS CO PleasePrep CHECK ALL INFORMATION and author Sophie Cleverly is our book club pick on page 18.

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especially dates, telephone numbers and add

Wishing you all a fun filled Easter however you choose to spend it.

Any changes need to be made at this stage.

Any further amendments will be charged for.

Anna & Rach

Please contact us by return either to amend or ap advertisement.

Editors:

Next Issue:

Rachel Bailey & Anna Collins

May/June 2022

01628 829761 Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk www.Familiesonline.co.uk

Tel: 01628 829761 Circulation: 16,000 Cover image: depositphotos.com

Families Thames Valley East is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All Franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd. Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Thames Valley East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Thames Valley East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

For more information please email bernice@littlelearnersuk.com or call us on 07944478517

Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

ASCOT 01344 206466 ascot@stagecoach.co.uk

Helping children believe they can do anything BRACKNELL NORTH (WARFIELD) 01344 206466 bracknellnorth@stagecoach.co.uk

HIGH WYCOMBE HENLEY AND MARLOW 07968 598227 07968 598227 henleyandmarlow@stagecoach.co.uk highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk MAIDENHEAD 01628 281128 maidenhead@stagecoach.co.uk

WINDSOR AND LANGLEY 01932 988086 windsor@stagecoach.co.uk Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

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EDUCATION News Newsand & Views Information

Take on a Quest with activities, shows and films at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts this April

A wild experience Ever fancied feeding a meerkat, grooming a pony or even tickling a tapir? At Beale Wildlife Park near Reading, both adults and children can now enjoy animal experiences. These unique opportunities allow you to go behind-the-scenes with our experienced animals team, learn all about some of your favourite species and get hands-on with feeding.

The experiences, which can be booked now and will be available from Easter, start at just £15 per person.

Beale Wildlife Park is a great day out for all the family with 160 wildlife species from all over the world, beautiful gardens, a train, cafes and play areas. There’s a packed programme of activities across the school holidays, including trails, keeper talks, crafts, meet the bugs and pond dipping.

Navigate your way through creative adventures and fearlessly explore a land where imagination rules supreme!

Quest Family Fest is a fun packed fortnight of new experiences for children and families this Easter holiday! Including family shows Jack and the Beanstalk, The Amazing Bubble Man and Family Concertini with CBeebies YolanDa Brown. There’s also activity clubs plus daily craft and storytelling.

On Friday 15 April, children of all ages and their families can try something new with Explore – a whole day of one hour workshops.

Workshops are £4.50 per person or buy a Pass – four workshops for £16 per person. There are over 40 workshops to choose from including Circus Skills, Chocolate Making, Drama and Digital Animation!

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF Box Office / 01628 788997 / www.nordenfarm.org

Keep up-to-date at www.bealepark.org.uk and via Facebook and Instagram.

PADDLEBOARD

MAIDENHEAD YOUNGER KIDS Holiday Clubs (+7 yrs) Paddling Parties (+4yrs) Parent & Child Trips

FAMILIES

Guided River Trips Gatherings Safety, Skills & Rescue Paddlesporty Sundays Family Company days

Are you looking to get your mum the perfect gift this Mother’s Day?

TEENS

Holiday Clubs River Trips SUP Starters Paddle Parties

Follow us:

Why not try Spirit and Grace Style! This boutique is a treasure trove of women’s fashion accessories, gorgeous jewellery, and great gift ideas.

Based in Holyport, you’ll be supporting a great local business too.

From beautiful crossbody bags and stunning bag straps, statement costume to delicate sterling silver jewellery and stylish scarves, there’s something for everyone at Spirit & Grace Style. Katie Topping uses her eye for style to curate a range of stunning pieces, all available online or direct from Katie’s home-based boutique in Holyport.

Katie says, ‘I love how an outfit can be enhanced or changed simply by adding an amazing piece of jewellery, popping on a gorgeous scarf or by using a fabulous bag!’

@paddleboardmaidenhead

orgeous accessories for the perfect Mother’s Day gift and much G more: www.spiritandgracestyle.com or call 07771 884468 to arrange a shopping experience.

WE ALSO WORK WITH SCHOOLS & SCOUTS!

GET IN TOUCH info@paddleboardmaidenhead.uk www.paddleboardmaidenhead.uk 4

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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News and News Information & Views Help your child bloom this spring Supporting Tweens and Teens to build and maintain their confidence is often a challenge.

There are many barriers and distractions that may cause parents to miss the fact that their child is in fact struggling.

Perhaps they are: • Appearing to be over confident – when they are going through a particular change perhaps in friendships or relationships.

• Showing different behavioural patterns – constantly receiving warnings, detentions, letters home are often driven by other factors yet result in acting out!

• Locked away in their room – not all tweens or teenagers want to be locked away from the rest of the family. Sometimes it is because they

don’t want to or know how to share what is going on for them.

•R educing or stopping the activities they once loved – it can take time to build relationships, some children find it difficult to make or maintain friendships, their self-esteem is impacted and they become insular.

•U sing negative self-talk – constantly talking down about themselves, events or people in their lives.

Coach Jean has worked with many children who have struggled with low self-confidence, lack self-esteem, struggle with friendships, behaviour issues and more. To find out how your child can be supported to thrive, grow their self-belief and learn tools that will help them build and maintain resilience, contact us using details below.

Call now for a complimentary chat on 07872017162 or email jean@activepersonaldevelopment.co.uk

Let your kids Go Wild, get messy and have a ‘Best Day ADVERTISEMENT PROOF Ever!’ The Little Welly returns to Henley-On-Thames

Contact: Chrissie Wilson Telephone: 07799 826 567 Email: editor@familieschiltern.com

familiesonline.co.uk

Please find below a proof of your advertisement for the Get ready for a whole dollopMarch/April of outdoor,2022 crazyissue of Families kids (andChiltern their parents!) in a fun, unique and safe (Issue 114). fun as The Little Welly – the UK’s largest obstacle environment with a cool medal at the end.

CHECK IS CORRECT course for children - returnsPlease on the 11th and 12thALL INFORMATION Plus, there’s so much more to enjoy: the Little especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses.

June.

Welly Festival Village has something for all the AnyLittle changes atincluding this stage.inflatables, the climbing wall, family Specially created for kids, The Wellyneed to be made trampolines, Any30 further amendments will be chargedcaving for. and hamster balls. There’s obstacle course has more than challenges music throughout the day andadvertisement. a full schedule Please contact us by returnlive either to amend or approve your over the 3 or 5km routes. They include a huge of entertainers in the Show Tent. water slide, foam pit and, of course, mud! www.thelittlewelly.co.uk The course is reimagined every year to challenge

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Families Thames Valley East

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News Newsand & Views Information

Perform classes will build your child’s confidence

Book a no-obligation FREE trial class to get started at perform.org.uk/try Families readers receive a £40 discount when booking before 31st March, just quote

TVE310322

Perform puts children’s social development at the heart of their weekly sessions for 4-7s and 7-12s. Using performing arts-based games and inspiring activities, their classes are designed to boost confidence, build concentration, develop communication skills and hone coordination – and are brimming with fun and laughter too.

Run by professionally trained actors, dancers and singers, classes are kept small to ensure individual attention, with regular progress reports provided. Fantastic termly resources – such as free apps, music downloads and dance videos - support each theme, meaning the fun continues at home. Don’t just take Perform’s word for it, see what parents say by visiting www.perform.org.uk “The beaming smile you see when Annabelle finishes a class is so wonderful to see. She has grown in confidence and thoroughly enjoys it”.

– Katie Pashley Children can join at any point during the term and will still take part in the end of term performance. Classes are for all abilities; children just need to arrive ready to have the best fun of the week!

Local Perform Classes: St Peter’s Centre 1 Thorney Lane North, Iver SL0 9JU 4-7s Tuesdays 4pm; 7-12s Tuesdays 5.05pm Boyne Hill Infant School Rutland Road, Maidenhead SL6 4HZ 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays 11.15am All Saints Church Hall The Causeway, Marlow SL7 2AA 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm Hilltop First School Clewer Hill Road, Windsor SL4 4DW 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm Virginia Water Community Centre 3 Beechmount Ave, Virginia Water GU25 4EY 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm NEW CLASS: 4 Marlow Road Youth and Community Centre SL6 7YR 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm ontact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk C www.perform.org.uk/try

The Marist School rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas by ISI Inspection The Marist School has been rated ‘Excellent’ in all areas following a recent Inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

The key findings of the report recognises the quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent stating that “throughout the school, pupils are successful, independent, and collaborative learners, both inside and outside of the classroom”. Inspectors also highlighted the school’s learning environment saying, “pupils make rapid progress in developing knowledge, skills and understanding as a result of the supportive and collaborative learning environment and the determination of the pupils.”

Focusing on the excellent quality of the pupils’ personal development, Inspectors praised the strong sense of community and identity saying, “pupils demonstrate an outstanding sense of community and identity as a school”. The report continues to say that “from the moment they join the school, pupils make rapid progress in developing their selfconfidence, resilience, self-discipline, and other personal skills.”

Principal, Mrs Jo Smith, said, “This is a wonderful report and reflects the strengths of our Marist community. By talking to pupils, staff, parents, and leadership, the Inspectors recognised the excellence in what we do every day in all aspects of life here at The Marist.” www.themarist.com

Spring Into Easter at Odds Farm Park Daily from 9th to 24th April, Spring into Easter at Odds Farm Park and enjoy a jam-packed day of eggstra-ordinary outdoor adventures with the family!

Easter wouldn’t be complete without seeing some of their latest animal arrivals - with fluffy lambs, cheeky kid goats and piglets galore, their furry friends can’t wait to meet you! Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of daily farmer-led animal activities, including kid goat bottle-feeding, egg collecting at Chicken World, goat shows, piggies snack time and of course, rabbit time!

Their egg-citing Egg Hunt will have you searching high and low to earn an Easter treat, and kids can get creative with our Spring-themed art & craft activities.

Concerned about hair loss or hair related issues?

Contact the Maidenhead based clinic on 01628 92511 / 07590 545922 info@hairloss-trichology.com www.hairloss-trichology.com Local qualified Trichologist Hair Loss Consultant & Glyco Nutritional Wellness Consultant (I.A.T, W.T.S, GNWC, AMAE) 6

At Odds Farm Park, there’s acres of outdoor fun to eggs-plore, including their extensive Adventure Play Areas, Sand & Water Play Area, Adventure Fort, Go-Karts, and much more! Don’t forget to bring your wellies for a springtime splash in H2Odds Water Play, and hop aboard their Tractor & Trailer Ride for a tour across the animal paddocks!+ Guests can climb, jump and slide the way through the Giant Indoor Playbarn and refuel at the award-winning Marmalade’s Tearoom or stop for an ice cream at the Airstream Catering Van. Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield and is open from 10.00am – 5.30pm Monday to Sunday. www.oddsfarm.co.uk

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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Open Mornings - 4 March & 22 April 2022 Find out more about what makes our school so special, meet our Headteacher, and enjoy a tour of the school.

Coworth Flexlands, a Prep School where happiness gets results Nestled in-between Chobham, Sunningdale & Windlesham. 10 mins from Virginia Water. GU24 8TE.

www.coworthflexlands.co.uk

Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years.

Self-esteem and happiness, we believe, are paramount to each child’s success and we pride ourselves on developing confident and happy children with a love of learning.

Call 01753 862610 or email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk

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Education

Schools’ Open Days Spring Term 2022 Please ring the school to check the Open Day or Evening is still going ahead.

Claires Court For girls and boys from three to 18 years Please visit website to book Friday 4 March (Senior Boys and Senior Girls) Friday 29 April (Junior Boys and Junior Girls) 9.30am to 11.30am 01628 327710 registrar@clairescourt.com www.clairescourt.com Coworth Flexlands Prep School and Nursery Chertsey Road, Valley End, Chobham, GU24 8TE Friday 4 March and Friday 22 April 10am For a personal tour visit the website 01276 855707 secretary@coworthflexlands.co.uk www.coworthflexlands.co.uk Eton End 35 Eton Road, Datchet SL3 9AX Friday 4 March 10am to 12pm To book a visit, contact below: 01753 541075 registrar@etonend.org www.etonend.org Godstowe Preparatory School and Nursery Girls 3-13, boys 3-7 Shrubbery Road, High Wycombe HP13 6PR To arrange a visit, contact below: 01494 429006 godstowe.org/admissions

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Heathfield School London Road, Ascot, Berks SL5 8BQ Saturday 7 May 9.45am to 12 noon 01344 898342 admissions@heathfieldschool.net www.heathfieldschool.net Herries School Co-ed Preparatory School and Nursery 2-11 years.

Dean Lane, Cookham Dean SL6 9BD For a personal tour email: admissions@herries.org.uk www.herries.org.uk Instagram: Herrieswindinthewillows Facebook: Herries Preparatory School Twitter: @Herries_School Highfield Preparatory School 2 West Road, Maidenhead SL6 1PD Friday 25 March Spring Activity Morning for pre school and nursery children 9am to 10.30am School offers private tours all academic year 01628 624918 office@highfieldprep.org www.highfieldprep.org Long Close School Upton Court Road, Slough SL3 7LU Saturday 5 March and Saturday 14 May Whole School 10am-12pm Stay and plays for children age 2 to 4 yrs:

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

Call to book your place now!

Friday 11 March - 2-3pm Friday 1 April - 10-11am admissions@longcloseschool.co.uk www.longcloseschool.co.uk Meadowbrook School Malt Hill, Warfield RG42 6JQ School offers private tours all academic year 01344 890869 admin@meadowbrook.uk www.meadowbrook.uk The Marist School Kings Road, Sunninghill, Ascot, SL5 7PS Wednesday 11 March (Prep) Saturday 14 May (Whole School) 01344 624291 admissions@themarist.com www.themarist.com Upton House School Windsor 115 St Leonard’s Road, Windsor Berkshire SL4 3DF For a private tour please contact: registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk 01753 862610 www.uptonhouse.org.uk

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Education

Help, we didn’t get our first choice school!

By Emma Lewry School allocation day is almost upon us. In England, secondary school places are announced on 1 March. Then, during April, those who have applied for a primary school place will find out their designated school. Thankfully, almost ninety two percent of families are given their first-choice primary school and ninety eight percent get one of their listed preferences. In secondary, ninety six percent of students get one of their listed schools. But what about those who do not get their first choice or even any preferences? How can you deal with the fallout from not getting a choice you planned for? Here are three suggestions: Give the allocated option a chance If you do not know much about the school, get nosey on their website and give them a call see if you can visit. In many cases, second or third choice allocations turn out to be brilliant and families are really pleased with the decision. Give the school a chance, it might work for you!

Manage disappointment Sometimes the biggest issue is managing the disappointment you and your child might feel. Look after yourself and take some time to be sad, angry and frustrated; these are important and valid feelings. Communicating positively with your child is important if you can, so they don’t feel nervous about their new school.

Get on the waiting lists Plenty changes between the spring and September and there is still a good chance you can get a space at your first choice school or another you feel happier about. Depending on your local authority procedures, you may automatically go on a waiting list or you may need to request this with your local authority or directly with the school.

If you are still feeling unsure about the school options, there is time to look at other schools and request a change. Both starting school and moving to secondary are big events and you need to feel as happy about them as you can. There are also options to appeal; although this can be challenging, it may be worth a shot.

Again, your local authority website should explain the appeals process.

Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, former Headteacher and mum to two little girls. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk/links) which supports families to prepare for starting school through groups, courses and a school starters planner available from Amazon.

Appealing a decision Each local authority has an appeals procedure to follow and this can be found on their website.

It will explain how to appeal and what reasons you can use for appeal. It is quite difficult to be successful with an appeal and in most cases, this only happens where children have additional needs which cannot be supported in any other setting. In a nutshell, if you appeal a decision, you are effectively asking a school which is full to remove a child from that allocation and move them to a different school. As you can imagine, that is an unlikely scenario.

It can be worth going through the process though, as there are situations in which schools may take on more children if they are able to and by appealing, you are showing you are serious about wanting a place at that school.

Once you appeal, the case will be heard by a panel, you may be invited to the hearing and you will be given a decision with reasons.

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SUMMER FUN Education

Parental pressure

By Catherine Loble and Lisa Wander

It can sometimes be challenging for parents to walk the fine line between caring too little and caring too much about their child’s progress at school.

Whilst we all want the best for our children, our own expectations and behaviour can have a direct impact on their academic and emotional development. The weight of pressure and expectation can lead to low self-esteem and anxiety, whilst a lack of pressure and expectation can be equally counterproductive. So how do we strike a balance, ensuring that we are setting and supporting realistic goals for our children?

Research suggests a strong and positive link between high expectations and high academic achievements. But these expectations must be based on a realistic understanding of our children’s abilities. When our dreams and fantasies do not coincide with their own interests and abilities, our expectations can strike a debilitating blow to their development.

Putting children under unreasonable pressure can impact their mental and physical health as well as their relationships with both parents and peers. The constant stress to perform interferes with children’s identity formation and can cause them to feel that they can never be good enough.

On the other hand, having low or no expectations can lead to poor performance and an inability to cope with pressure of any kind. When parents are too accepting of whatever their child does, it communicates that the child doesn’t really matter. This can be equally damaging.

Key here is to maintain expectation but minimise pressure. High expectations can be motivating and encouraging, helping your child reach their potential and feel confident and secure. Think

about the process rather than the result by encouraging them to stick with their studies even when they are struggling.

Work with your child to decide on best ways to manage test situations. Experiment with different study methods together to find out what works best for them. If your child is struggling, then talk to your child’s school to see what support can be provided.

Finally, it’s crucial to remind your child of your love and support without reference to their academic performance and test outcomes.

Supporting them to learn from their mistakes motivates them to try new approaches to problem solving, achieving wisdom and good judgement along the way.

Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.

CONNECTING WITH YOUR CHILD

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Positive parenting is key Focus on positive action, trust and communication. This will lead to a greater sense of happiness and help your child achieve their goals.

Manage your own expectations. Our own reactions towards our children’s behaviours have a direct impact on how they internalise and develop their own sense of themselves so try to focus on the child you have and not the child you wish you had.

Value goals over grades and focus on the process they used to get there. Use positive language and help your child learn about growth mindset – rather than ‘you only got 5/20 in your test,’ ask how you can help them to improve, think about what worked and what could work better.

Talk about their successes and failures. This shows you are invested in the process of learning and not just interested in the end grade.

Maintain a long-term perspective with realistic expectations.

Choose the right school, not just the one that achieves the highest grades.

Manage your own disappointments and value what is, rather than what might have been.

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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Herries Co-Ed Preparatory School & Nursery from 2 - 11 years

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Whole School Open Day

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14 May

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IND EPEN DENT CATHOLIC DAY SCHOOL F OR GIR LS AGED 2-18 WITH A CO-ED NU RSERY

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Do you need a Reception place for September 2022?

Call 01628 483350, email admissions@herries.org.uk or visit www.herries.org.uk/admissions/make-an-enquiry for a tour.

Distinctive setting in Cookham Dean • Sports at Bisham Abbey • Music, French and PE Specialists • LAMDA Centre • 11+ Study Skills • One class per year group • Wraparound Care from 7.30am - 6.00pm

Godstowe

OPEN MORNING

A happy and thriving day and boarding preparatory school, for girls aged 3 to 13 and boys aged 3 to 7.

Saturday 7 May Boarding and Day for Girls 11-18

heathfieldschool.net +44 (0) 1344 898343

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To arrange a visit, please contact our admissions team on 01494 429006 or register online at www.godstowe.org/admissions

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Families Thames Valley East

11

Education

Joanna Leach Highfield Prep School Joanna Leach has been the Headteacher at Highfield Prep since 2015. The school is a small, family orientated school now taking boys aged 2-7 and girls aged 2-11. Families talks to her about her career journey, the school’s ethos, the qualities of a great teacher and the future of education after a pandemic.

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I have been involved in education for over 20 years. I started off in the state sector and have taught all ages from EYFS to Year 6 and I then became a Head of a primary school in 2010. In 2015, I decided to take on a new challenge and I moved over to the independent sector and became the Headteacher of Highfield Preparatory School and I have been here ever since!

future children benefit from its excellent education. For all of us here at Highfield, our mission is to be a friendly and caring independent day school for children up to Year 6, with high academic standards, maximising the potential of each child by focusing on them as an individual and working closely with parents and all members of the Highfield community to achieve our aims. Every child matters and their learning should be fun, purposeful and challenging. We are committed to delivering inspirational teaching, encouraging the children to thrive and achieve as individuals, preparing them for their role as caring and active citizens in the global community.

How would you describe the Highfield ethos?

Highfield Preparatory was established in 1918 and is founded on the guiding principles of Charlotte Mason, a forwardthinking educationalist of her era whose philosophy was that all children are individuals and should be treated as such.

This ethos is still found daily at Highfield as we celebrate diversity and work in partnership with parents as we strive for excellence in every aspect of school life.

It is a nurturing school with small classes and outstanding specialist teachers who provide an inspiring education resulting in resilient, independent children. As a school, we are very passionate about equality, opportunity and raising our emotional IQ.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work?

Being a Headteacher is the best job in the world and it is so rewarding! We are very privileged to do this and be part of these young children’s lives; helping to prepare them for the next stage of their lives through instilling confidence, resilience and independence. Working in a school you know that you are making a difference to all of these children and that is what makes us very proud and honoured to be doing that job.

How has Highfield Prep evolved over the years and what have been the highlights?

For over 100 years Highfield has adapted to ensure the school prospers and

What are the qualities of a great teacher?

There are many qualities that make an outstanding teacher, but for me one of the most important is having passion for

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Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

your subject. This is especially important for children, as feeling a sense of enthusiasm from their teacher will inspire them to learn and apply themselves better. A great teacher loves their job and giving parents the sense that their child is being taught by someone that loves what they do is hugely advantageous.

How do you think education will evolve over the next 5 years?

As a result of the pandemic, we have had to learn and adapt to new ways of thinking and working. In doing this we have had to develop resilience alongside our own wellbeing and I think this is an area which will continue to evolve within education. I also believe that there will be a more integrated approach to the curriculum where education is focused on knowledge and skills that children will need for their future such as how to build relationships, solve problems and work collaboratively with others.

We’re proud of our pastoral care here at Highfield and we always incorporate life skills within our curriculum to ensure our children leave us as resilient and assertive individuals.

Highfield Preparatory School, 2 West Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 1PD 01628 624918 www.highfieldprep.org www.instagram.com/highfieldprep www.facebook.com/highfieldprep www.twitter.com/highfieldprep

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Education

How important is spelling?

By Jemma Zoe Smith At a time when autocorrect is everywhere and very few situations call for handwriting, the question being debated is: does spelling matter?

As a dyslexic tutor, my answer does not fit squarely on one side of the fence. Spelling is a recognised core skill which helps with reading, processing and pronunciation. That said, should anyone be penalised for having important and novel ideas, simply because they struggle to write them down?

In UK primary schools, children are given regular spelling tests and spelling is tested at each stage of pupils’ lives. 11+ exams, SATs, GCSEs and even some job interviews require a writing task without spellcheck. So yes, spelling must matter because it is tested at so many points in the UK (although not so much in the USA). Fail to master spelling and it is harder to make it to top universities or careers.

Indeed, poor spelling skills can also impede you in love! In 2016, a survey of over five thousand people on online dating site Match.com found that over a third judged whether a potential date was suitable by their grasp of grammar.

Poor spelling can also impact business ratings, with a BBC article in 2011 stating that ‘a single spelling mistake can cut online sales in half.’

While spell checking tools can be used, they raise a new issue.

When spell check corrects a word, it can also change the word to one different than intended, creating hundreds of ‘funniest autocorrect’ articles online but also leaving governments red

faced as ‘peace’ turns to ‘peach’ in press releases.

But let’s not come down too hard on spelling lest it discourage children from writing. I have seen students go from enthusiastic to disengaged learners after seeing their work returned with red rings around the misspelled words. For many, their ideas for stories, articles and debates stay locked in their heads, never written down for fear of over-zealous correction. We might be missing out on some amazing works - after all, Jane Austen is known for spelling scissors as ‘scissars’ and sofa as ‘sopha’. And her novels are considered literary classics!

So does spelling matter? Sort of. But it shouldn’t get in the way of encouraging children to write. My solution? Spend longer on proof-reading, a skill that can help beyond the classroom. And, on that note, I’m off to proof-read this article.

Jemma Zoe Smith is Director of The Education Hotel (www.educationhotel.co.uk).

New skill sets?

Learning to proofread

Across the pond in the USA, spelling has been phased out of the school curriculum, in the same way as handwriting. Spelling errors don’t count against students on the essay portion of the SAT, according to the College Board which administers the exam.

While grammar and autocorrect tools can support writing, I believe there is a missing skill: proofreading. Something that I often work on with students is ‘hearing their inside voice’ reading their work. Being able to spot mistakes can help students to notice patterns in their own writing, identify grammar errors and lead them to understand hidden meanings in texts.

With online learning forcing many students onto laptops over the last two years, some schools in the UK are now following the USA and allowing laptops in lessons. So is spelling becoming less important in their curriculums?

Certainly schools are no longer purely about the ‘three Rs’ of writing, reading and arithmetic (why did only one of those start with an R?). Indeed, many UK schools are now including wellbeing, computing and even BTECs in agriculture in their curriculums, instead of GCSEs like history.

So what skills are becoming more important? Coding is already a highly valued skill and is destined to become even more important in the future. Look into www.mama.codes. Equally, success for our children is likely to require strong critical thinking and communication skills. You can encourage this at home with www.kidcoach.app.

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The process of proofreading encourages children to slow down and consider making changes to their work, such as upgrading a word like ‘big’ to ‘enormous,’ allowing them to explore and use more advanced vocabulary. To produce crisp, clear copy, proofreading is the final part of the writing process and is as important as creating and revising text.

Proofreading is a skill that many of us will need in the world of work, when sending emails and writing presentations. For the best, proof reading can be a job in its own right.

To practise proofreading, try www.twinkl.co.uk for age-banded proofreading packs and worksheets www.portlandproof.com for free online games.

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

13

Education

Tidy bedrooms and school performance

By Usha Patel The instruction ‘Tidy your room!’ is the bane of most children’s lives. But there’s so much more to keeping bedrooms tidy than maintaining a positive environment. In fact, the very act of regular tidying can actually help children in other areas of their life too, including at school. It’s all part of building certain processes and routines that are important to their overall development.

Nurturing a sense of tidiness By the age of four, children can usually hold just one notion in their active memory, for instance, immediate instructions such as picking up certain toys or doing one tidying job. Young children often struggle with being given too much to do all at once simply because their active memory is quickly drained. However, by the time they are sixteen, they can hold six or even seven notions in their active memory at a time.

If you want your child to more easily absorb a sequence of instructions, you can try habit stacking, with tidying their bedroom a perfect example of how to nurture it. Habit stacking is achieved by linking an existing habit with a new one you want to create.

How a tidy bedroom can help with working memory How easily can your child find something in their bedroom? To recall where a particular item is, children first need to retrieve the information from their long-term memory storage and bring it forward to their active thinking. The more items they have to put away, the more working memory is used to remember where each one is located.

ADVERTISEMENT PROOF Pleasememory find below proof cognitive of your advertisement for the Working is a acritical function for everyday activities from learning reading, spellings, maths Nov/Dec 2019 issue to (No. 105) ofremembering Families TVE. and mathematical tasks. By encouraging your child to start small and create the tidying habit and then retrieve the items, you are Please CHECK ALLpart INFORMATION exercising that same of the brain. IS CORRECT especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses.

It’s impossible to overstate just how important working memory is in every aspect of your child’s life. In fact, Dr Tracy Packiam Any changes need to be made at this stage.

Alloway, award-winning psychologist who has conducted Any further amendments will beand charged for. states it is a more extensive research on memory the brain, significant indicator of academic success than IQ.

Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your

So,advertisement. there’s no need to feel like you are being a nag when you ask your child to tidy their room; it really is good for them. There’s a direct line from toybox to brainbox - just don’t expect them to thank you for it yet!

Usha Patel (www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk) is a neurocognitive therapist and an expert in special educational needs.

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15

Early Years

Play for nurturing emotional intelligence

By Dr Anne Lane When my daughter was in her first year at nursery her favourite game was pretending to say goodbye to me. ‘Bye Mama, I’ve got to go. I’ll see you later.’ ‘Oh no! You’re not going...’ I’d say after her, ‘I don’t want you to go!’ The more I sighed ‘Don’t go,’ the more she’d giggle and run off. Thus reassured, we were ready for our day.

moments of play like this helped my daughter process MENTLittle PROOF

her separation from me at nursery from a space of safety and

oof of your advertisement for the connection. o.of 107) of Families ue Families TVE. TVE.

For a child, life can be full of emotional demands; from the strains of separation from you, to new friendships, periods of ORMATION IS CORRECT especially uncertainty and family changes.

cross and make your child feel vulnerable and uncertain. But in the world of play, they get to switch things around and feel empowered. They can explore and try different things. The play scenario can be ridiculous, funny, amusing - tense and tight emotions soften and ease.

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bers and addresses.

Against this background of safety and security, your child can As a parent and psychologist, one of the most effective and fun become more comfortable making suggestions and changing ways I have found to help children navigate experiences and the made at this stage.

07867 514138 /things, 07753allowing 414605 their understanding of situations to develop. difficult emotions that come with these is through T: this process will be charged for.Simple, giggly, repetitive play helps childrenE:develop They’re the boss, they call the shots and decide how a situation editor@familiestveast.co.uk of play. a resilience and familiarity with situations which can dispel tension goes. From this place of safety, they revisit difficult experiences without feelingWay, vulnerable or uncertain.

Little People Media, 29 Furrow rn either toand amend or approve your anxiety.

So how does play work?

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Play is serious work for your child. The process of role-playing real scenarios allows them to reflect on their reactions and beliefs about a situation. They can steady their emotions and become more nuanced and agile in their reactions.

The most important aspect of play is that it feels safe. In the real world, things are unpredictable. People can be abrupt and

In role playing and playing out different scenarios with them, your child comes to know you as someone who can understand and relate to their experience. They feel steady and secure.

Dr Anne Lane is a clinical psychologist and author. Her new book Nurture Your Child’s Emotional Intelligence: 5 Steps to Help Your Child Cope with Big Emotions and Build Resilience is out now.

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Parenting

Tackling childhood fears

By Tanith Carey

During the pandemic, levels of anxiety among adults have risen sharply and some of this worry has been contagious for kids. So how do we help children manage their own feelings when the world feels uncertain for grown-ups too?

Firstly, remember that children take their cues from you. This means noticing when you feel overwhelmed.

Visualise a sliding scale in your mind with notches from one to ten. When the scale starts to move towards seven or eight, take deliberate steps to process your own worries, maybe talking them through with another adult, so you can stay calm and rational around your child.

You may be concerned that this is hiding your worries from your child. Don’t be. It’s putting on your own oxygen mask so you can reassure them they are safe within the world of their home. If your child seems worried by something about Covid they have heard outside the home, ask what they’ve heard.

From around age 4 or 5, young children engage in ‘magical thinking’ in which they believe they are the centre of the world.

In order to try and make sense of how the world works, they also tend to link events that aren’t linked, meaning that they often leap to the wrong conclusions. If a grandparent gets Covid, they may for example, assume it’s down to them not washing their hands when they come home from school.

Asking your children about their fears allows you to tackle their concerns directly. You can help them feel more in control by telling them they are part of a big team winning the war on the virus and helping by wearing masks and washing their hands. Explain: ‘Lots of people have caught this germ, but for most, it’s been like a really bad cold.’

Talk too about how clever scientists have come up with vaccines and millions of grown-ups, from health care staff to teachers, are still working hard to look after them. Help them get the virus in perspective too. Explain that there are good germs in our bodies as well as bad ones, how their immune system works and how to look after it.

you don’t expect it to happen for a long time and by then they will be grown-up.

Facing and talking about their fears doesn’t mean they will become persistent. In fact, they are more likely to keep coming back when children feel alone with them, not heard or unable to express them.

If you do lose a loved one, give clear, open honest answers.

Avoid phrases such as ‘gone to sleep’ or ‘we’ve lost them.’

Explain simply the reason that their loved one is no longer here is that their body stopped working.

Sometimes kids can find it easier to process the death of a loved one through tangible ways of mourning. Going through family photos, making a keepsake box, releasing a balloon with the person’s name on or planting a tree can all be helpful.

Tanith Carey is author of What’s My Child Thinking: Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents with clinical child psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin, published by DK books.

Fears and anxieties are some of the one hundred scenarios faced with children aged 2 to 7 that are tackled in this book.

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While young children tend not to worry about death as something that happens to them, they may worry about who will look after them if you or your co-parent dies. If this is a concern that surfaces, tell your child that everyone dies eventually but

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Fear of the dark at bedtime affects about half of children up to the age of 5. When a room goes black, children can feel ‘trapped’ by the darkness around them.

By helping kids name their worries, they will feel more in charge.

Summarise and talk about what they are saying, so they know you have heard and understood.

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17

Book Club

This month we have the first two books in a gloriously gothic detective series to giveaway!

Written for readers age 8+, these books are the perfect spooky sleuth series for young adventure seekers.

Rachel Bailey talks to author Sophie Cleverly about her love of books, graveyards and a good mystery.

With both a BA in Creative Writing and an MA in Writing for Young People, you must have been pretty set on becoming a writer! Who first inspired your love of books?

I definitely wanted to be a writer as soon I first learned how to pick up a pencil. My mum was the person who taught me how to read, and I took to it immediately. I was the sort of kid who would take out the maximum number of books from the library every week. I would always be writing my own stories and putting my own little books together with illustrated covers. My one true reading love has to be Terry Pratchett – I discovered him when I was 11 and that really compelled me to want to pursue writing as a career.

Is it true that your love of graveyards was the inspiration for the Violet Veil series?

For sure! I’ve always been fascinated with graveyards.

I used to play in them when I was young and would imagine stories for the names I read on the stones. I even wrote my A Level English coursework on the language of epitaphs. I remember reading The Graveyard Book

by Neil Gaiman and thinking it couldn’t be beaten, but I still wanted to write my own story. I think Violet first came to me one dark and stormy night when I was trying to think of ideas for my MA, and I suddenly thought that a book about an undertaker’s Your first series, Scarlet and Ivy, was daughter would be interesting. I touted by the Guardian as being a immediately thought of her as living next to below a proof of your advertisement the it was the story I’d ‘nail-biting mystery’Please . How find is this series a cemetery, and for I knew July/August 2021 issue of Families Chiltern (Issue 110). different? always wanted to write.

The twins in Scarlet and Ivy solve mysteries Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT in their creepy 1930sespecially boarding school, You admit you have ‘ever-increasing’ dates, telephone numbers andan addresses.

Rookwood – I was very much inspired by pile of unread books. Me too! I can never Anyas changes need to be madeleave at thisastage. the mix of things I read a kid, everything bookshop empty handed. What’s Any further amendments charged for.reading list and is it all about from Enid Blyton to Goosebumps.

We’re will be top of your Please contact us by return either to amend approve youryou advertisement. in a different time period with Violet Veil, the physicalorbook or are a kindle the Victorian era, so it takes a little more convert? inspiration from the gothic horror and I have The Strangeworlds Travel Agency detective novels at the time – but of course

by L.D. Lapinski to read next and I’m with a bit of my own modern twist to it. really looking forward to it. I love reading middle grade as much as I love writing it. I definitely prefer physical books and enjoy collecting them, but I think e-books and audiobooks are pretty awesome, too.

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Your books have been translated into 6 different languages. Have you travelled to see them in different countries?

Not yet, but I would certainly like to. I get a lot of requests from fans to visit Australia – I’m rather scared of flying but I dream of being able to do that one day!

When you’re not writing or brainstorming ideas, what’s your favourite way to spend time with your family?

Ideally, I’d love to be sitting in a Greek taverna by the beach, but the pandemic has prevented us from going on holiday these past few years. So aside from that, I love a good wander through an ancient churchyard, or to curl up inside on a rainy day with a good movie.

18

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

WIN Families have a copy of the first two Violet Veil books to give away!

For your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to competitions@familiestveast.co.uk What is the name of Sophie Cleverly’s first series?

A Scarlet and Ivy B Ivy and Bean C The Scarlet Mysteries Closing date for entries is 15 April 2022 A Case of Misfortune, the second installment in The Violet Veil Mysteries is available now in paperback, priced £6.99. www.sophiecleverly.com Facebook @SophieCleverlyAuthor Twitter @Hapfairy Instagram @Hapfairy

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If you’d like your event featured please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with details. Event times and dates do change, please try and check that an event is still going ahead before you head out.

March ONGOING UNTIL SUNDAY MAY 1 MAGICAL MISCHIEF The Making of Harry Potter, Warner bros studio tour, Studio Tour Drive Leavesden WD25 7LR. Brand new for 2022, revealing the filmmaking trickery behind the Harry Potter film series and shining a spotlight on magical pranks and mishaps. www.wbstudiotour.co.uk MONDAYS TO FRIDAYS IN MARCH & APRIL LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE (term time only) Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell RG12 7QW Science Exhibition including over 90 activities for children of all ages. Also hands on zones, including Light & Colour, Woodland Water, Insects and Build It. 9.30am-3pm.

Outdoor adventure play area and new cafe. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisure-services/lookout-discovery MONDAYS IN MARCH AND APRIL LITTLE LEARNERS (MARLOW) Christ Church URC, 18 Oxford Road, SL7 2NL Messy play for 5 months - 5 years.

See website for booking. Pay as you go and courses available. www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/messy-playwindsor-maidenhead-slough MONDAYS AND FRIDAYS IN MARCH & APRIL BRAYWICK SPRITES (term time only) Braywick Court School, Hibbert Road, SL6 1UU 9.30-10.15 Stay & play (Walkers to 3 yr) 10.30-11.15 sport sessions (3-5yr) for school readiness.

Pay on day. £5 per child email: pe@braywickcourtschool.org.uk

Animal experiences available now

TUESDAYS IN MARCH AND APRIL PADDLEFIT TUESDAYS Maidenhead Sailing Club Lakeside, Summerleaze, SL6 8HZ 6-7pm 11+ years and parents www.paddleboardmaidenhead.uk WEDNESDAYS IN MARCH AND APRIL

What’s On?

SATURDAYS IN MARCH AND APRIL LITTLE LEARNERS (FULMER) Fulmer Village Hall, Fulmer, Slough SL3 6HP Messy play for 5 months - 5 years.

See website for booking.

Pay as you and courses available. www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/messy-playwindsor-maidenhead-slough

MOTHERS AND UNDER 3s (term time only) Maidenhead Mosque Community Centre, SL6 8AW Support on parenting/finances/health 10-12 noon £1.50 www.maidenheadmosque.org/2022/01/motherbaby-group

FRIDAY MARCH 4, 11 AND 25 LITTLE WRIGGLERS Norden Farm SL6 4PF 2+ years. 11am www.norden.farm

WEDNESDAYS IN MARCH JUNIOR YOUTH THEATRE Norden Farm SL6 4PF 7-11 years. 4.55pm www.norden.farm

SATURDAY MARCH 5 BASIL BRUSH FAMILY SUN SHOW Norden Farm SL6 4PF 2.30pm www.norden.farm

WEDNESDAYS IN MARCH SENIOR YOUTH THEATRE Norden Farm SL6 4PF 12-16 years. 6pm www.norden.farm

SATURDAY MARCH 5 OUTDOOR MARKET Norden Farm SL6 4PF 12-4pm www.norden.farm

THURSDAYS IN MARCH AND APRIL LITTLE LEARNERS (MAIDENHEAD) Dorney Village Hall, off Meadow Way, Dorney Reach, Maidenhead SL6 0DS Messy play for 5 months - 5 years.

See website for booking .Pay as you go and courses available. www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/messy-playwindsor-maidenhead-slough

A 35-acre adventure on the banks of the River Thames near Pangbourne

SATURDAY 5 AND SUNDAY MARCH 6 OCEAN ALIVE! PART OF MAIDENHEAD’S BIG READ Maidenhead Library, St Ives Road SL6 1QU Incredible Oceans Dome Author sessions, storytelling & experiments Once Upon A Bus (on Maidenhead High St) Booking recommended libraries@rbwm.gov.uk 01628 796969 www.rbwm.gov.uk/home/leisure-and-culture/ libraries

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts

QfamUilEy SfesTt TUES 12 Apr - Fri 22 Apr 2022

navigate your way through 2 weeks of creative adventures!

• shows • films • workshops • • gallery • cafe bar • Quest Family Fest is supported by:

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Centre for the Arts Maidenhead

01628 788997 nordenfarm.org

@nordenfarm /nordenfarm

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

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19

What’s On?

All details correct at the time of going to press. Please do remember to check online for up-to-date information and remember that in most cases you will need to book.

MONDAY MARCH 7 MINI MONDAY Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Activity morning for ages 2-4. £6.50. Look for signs of spring and make a kite. www.iverenvironmentcentre.org THURSDAY MARCH 10 RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA CINDERELLA Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE 7.30pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk FRIDAY MARCH 11 RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA - ROMEO AND JULIET Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE 7.30pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk SATURDAY MARCH 12 RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA - SWAN LAKE Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE 2.30pm and 7.30pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk

01628 624918 office@highfieldprep.org SATURDAY MARCH 26 EASTER FAMILY FUN DAY Grenfell Park, Maidenhead Easter egg treasure hunt, fairground rides, facepainting, bouncy castle and more 11am-3pm www.maidenheadbridgerotary.org.uk/easterfunday SUNDAY MARCH 27 MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH Crocus at Dorney Court, Court Lane, SL4 6QP 12-3pm. 2 courses £18.95 and 3, £24.95.

Includes a bunch of daffodils for mum.

Booking and £5 deposit required admin.dorney@crocus.co.uk 01628 600566 www.crocus.co.uk/dorney-court/events

April FRIDAY APRIL 1, 8 AND 29 LITTLE WRIGGLERS Norden Farm SL6 4PF 2+ years. 11am www.norden.farm

SATURDAY MARCH 19 BIRDS OF PREY Crocus at Dorney Court, Court Lane SL4 6QP 10am-4pm. Outdoor event. Free.

If you would like to handle a bird there will be a charge of £2. www.crocus.co.uk/dorney-court/events SATURDAY 19 AND SUNDAY MARCH 20 WHERE’S WALLY WEEKENDER Sign up for the National Literacy Trust’s fun run event in your local area.

5k, 10k or 1k run for under 12s. £15 per child, £20 per adult www.literacytrust.org.uk/whereswally MONDAY MARCH 21 MINI MONDAY FOR MINDERS Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Activity morning for ages 2-4 and networking opportunity. £6.50. www.iverenvironmentcentre.org

SATURDAY APRIL 2 OUTDOOR MARKET Norden Farm SL6 4PF 12-4pm www.norden.farm SATURDAY 2 TO MONDAY APRIL 18 THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR TRAIL Victoria Gate, Kew Gardens, Richmond TW9 3AE Embark on a transformational journey to becoming a beautiful butterfly, based on Eric Carle’s muchloved book, and wind through sculptures of juicy fruits and a cosy chrysalis along the way.

Free with admission www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/the-veryhungry-caterpillar SUNDAYS IN APRIL PADDLESPORTY SUNDAYS Maidenhead Sailing Club Lakeside, Summerleaze, SL6 8HZ Paddleboards & Kayaks followed by a social meetup for families www.paddleboardmaidenhead.uk

FRIDAY MARCH 25 SPRING ACTIVITY MORNING Highfield Preparatory School, 2 West Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 1PD Activity morning for preschoolers (under 5’s) 9-10.30am

FRIDAY 8 TO FRIDAY APRIL 22 EASTER ACTIVITIES AT BEALE WILDLIFE PARK Lower Basildon, Pangbourne, Reading RG8 9NW Including trails, keeper talks, meet the bugs and

Whatever place you're into

pond dipping.

Plus animal experiences including feeding the lemurs or meerkats.

Pre-booking recommended. www.bealepark.org.uk SATURDAY 9 TO MONDAY APRIL 11 JUBILEE JAMBOREE Windsor Castle Learning Centre, Windsor Castle SL4 1NJ Bring along a ‘Platinum Picnic’ to have within Pug Yard and enjoy some Jubilee themed crafts.

Free upon admission to the Castle.

SATURDAY 9 TO SUNDAY APRIL 24 EASTER AT ODDS FARM PARK Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common HP10 0LX Visitors can enjoy a wide range of daily farmer-led animal activities, including kid goat bottle-feeding, egg collecting at Chicken World, goat shows and of course rabbit time! An egg-citing Egg Hunt will have everyone searching for a chocolatey treat.

Open daily 10am-5.30pm. www.oddsfarm.co.uk MONDAY 11 TO FRIDAY APRIL 22 EASTER HOLIDAY CLUB & FAMILY GUIDED RIVER TRIPS Maidenhead Sailing Club & Boulters Lock, Thames Paddleboard activities for 7+ www.paddleboardmaidenhead.uk MONDAY APRIL 11 CREATIVE LEARNING WORKSHOP: SHREK THE MUSICAL Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE 7-12 years 10am-5pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk MONDAY APRIL 11 FAMILY ACTIVITY DAY Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Come and explore the grounds as they wake up for Spring and take part in a range of activities.

Morning and afternoon sessions. £6/£8 for over 3s. www.iverenvironmentcentre.org TUESDAY 12 TO THURSDAY APRIL 14 DROP OFF DAYS Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Crafts and games with an environmental theme for 7-11 years.

The programme is the same each day. £35 (£30 for siblings). www.iverenvironmentcentre.org

Blossom Ballet For a FREE taster class or for further information please contact Lucy:

07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com

Progress through the Swim England swim stages with our swimming lessons for all ages and abilities. courtgarden.placesleisure.org

20

The perfect new hobby for your child! We offer trampoline lessons for beginners and intermediates.

01628 405200

Court Garden Leisure Complex

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

B l o s s o m Ba l l e t

is about having lots of fun and making new friends.

Classes in Windsor throughout the week and at the weekends

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What’s On?

If you’d like your event featured please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with details.

TUESDAY APRIL 12 CREATIVE LEARNING WORKSHOP: COMEDY AND CLOWNING Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE 12-18 years 10am-5pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk TUESDAY APRIL 12 FAMILY CONCERTINI Norden Farm SL6 4PF 11.30am and 2pm www.norden.farm/events/family-concertini-withyolanda-brown

Fun trails, face-painting, circus skills, archery, mini-golf, street entertainment, balloon modelling, dressing up, a vintage fun fair and appearances from the Easter Bunny Entry fee applies www.blenheimpalace.com FRIDAY 15 TO MONDAY APRIL 18 EASTER WEEKEND Chiltern Open Air Museum Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk/events/easter-events MONDAY 18 AND TUESDAY APRIL 19

TUESDAY 12 AND APRIL 19 TERRIFIC TUESDAYS Chiltern Open Air Museum Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk/events/easter-holiday-activities

CREATIVE LEARNING WORKSHOP: PLAY IN TWO DAYS - GRIMMS TALES Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE 7-12 years 10am-5pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk

WEDNESDAY 13 AND THURSDAY APRIL 14 JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Norden Farm SL6 4PF 3+ years. 11.30am and 2pm www.norden.farm/events/jack-and-the-beanstalk

TUESDAY 19 AND WEDNESDAY APRIL 20 THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN Norden Farm SL6 4PF 11.30am and 2pm www.norden.farm/events/the-amazing-bubbleman-37

THURSDAY 14 TO MONDAY APRIL 18 JUBILEE JAMBOREE Windsor Castle Learning Centre, Windsor Castle SL4 1NJ Bring along a ‘Platinum Picnic’ to have within Pug Yard and enjoy some Jubilee themed crafts.

Free upon admission to the Castle.

FRIDAY 15 TO MONDAY APRIL 18 EASTER ENTERTAINMENT AT BLENHEIM PALACE Walled Garden, Blenheim Palace, Blenheim Park, Woodstock OX20 1PP

WEDNESDAY APRIL 20 THE WIZARD OF OZ - EASTER PANTO Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE 2pm and 6pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk/Online/tickets-thewizard-of-oz-panto-wycombe-2020 THURSDAY APRIL 21 THE NOT SO UGLY SISTERS Norden Farm SL6 4PF A brand new musical re-telling of Cinderella 4+ years 11.30am and 2pm

www.norden.farm/events/not-so-ugly-sisters FRIDAY APRIL 22 GROOVE INTO THE WOODS Norden Farm SL6 4PF Animated and live-action magical, musical adventure 3-7 years 11.30am and 2pm www.norden.farm/events/groove-into-the-woods THURSDAY 21 TO SUNDAY APRIL 24 JUBILEE JAMBOREE Windsor Castle Learning Centre, Windsor Castle SL4 1NJ Bring along a ‘Platinum Picnic’ to have within Pug Yard and enjoy some Jubilee themed crafts.

Free upon admission to the Castle SATURDAY APRIL 23 PACE BIG WALK Registration: Wendover Memorial Hall, Wharf Road HP22 6HF The 18, 12 and 6 mile routes all follow the infamous Ridgeway Trail.

The Superhero Mile takes place at the John Colet School https://thepacecentre.enthuse.com/cf/the-bigwalk-2022 SUNDAY APRIL 24 THE TWIRYLYWOOS Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE An introduction to Theatre for all ages.

1pm and 4pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk/Online/ticketstwirlywoos-wycombe-2022

Clubs, Classes and Activities If you are looking for a new club for your child, want to help them run off some excess energy, or just keep them entertained, below are some great suggestions for you to check out! When you call, please don’t forget to say you saw them in Families Thames Valley East Magazine.

The Jelly Lounge An Award-winning Restaurant & Soft Play Plus: • Weekly Baby Group meet ups • Baby weigh-ins • Baby, Toddler & Children’s Parties • Teen Parties • Gender Reveal • Private Hire • Booking is recommended. www.thejellylounge.co.uk 01753290175 contact@thejellylounge.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Braywick Sprites

Dance Inspired

Braywick Sprites stay and play and sport sessions.

Dance enthusiasts based in Maidenhead and Windsor. Street dance classes and contemporary dance for 5+ years during term-time.

Sprites develops social and physical skills and school readiness. Sessions with our outstanding PE teacher run on Mondays and Fridays 9.30-10.15 and 10.30-11.15.

Email pe@braywickcourtschool.org.uk for information.

Plus dance workshops and holiday camps.

Free trial class Facebook: @DanceInspiredUK Twitter: @DanceInspiredUK Instagram: @dance_inspireduk www.danceinspired.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

21

Parenting

Top apps every parent needs

By Ari Last It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of apps available in the App Store and give up before you’ve even started looking for something.

When it comes to parenting though, getting good apps on speed dial can really save time if you’re looking to keep the children entertained, connect with other like-minded parents, research childcare options or seek guidance on how to make family life just that little bit easier.

Here are some recommendations: Family Locator https://family-locator.com When older children or teenagers are out and about, keep track of their location with this app which keeps your family secure and connected, for extra peace of mind.

CBeebies www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies This staple app on any parent’s phone or tablet offers both educational games as well as classic cartoons for when you just need a break!

ADVERTISEMENT PROOF Please find below a proof of your advertisement for the Jan/Feb 2020 issue (No. 106) ofThe Families TVE. Wonder Weeks Mush

www.bit.ly/WonderWeeksApp www.letsmush.com A week-by-week to The number one social app Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT guide especially your baby’s development right for mums to find friends who dates, telephone addresses. from pregnancy to live nearby with kidsnumbers the sameand through after birth, showing how you age, arrange to meet up and canstage. support and stimulate get advice from parenting Any changes need to be made at this your little experts and peers. for. one.

Any further amendments will be charged Sound Sleeper Allrecipes Dinner Spinner Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your www.soundsleeperapp.com https://dish.allrecipes.com/ advertisement.

Help your baby get off to sleep mobile-apps with this app’s collection of A handy bank of recipes and calming sounds. cooking inspiration which keeps solving the ‘what can Kidday I make for dinner?’ question www.kidday.com and keeps little bellies The easiest way to store your satisfied every evening. child’s photographs in one place, as well as share albums with friends and family.

Bubble www.joinbubble.com The UK’s biggest ondemand childcare platform, with over 100,000 users and 5-star Trustpilot rating.

Find, book and pay local sitters or nannies who come recommended from their friends and other parents in their area.

Thames Valley East

OLIO www.olioex.com Here you can give T:away 07867 514138 / 07753 414605 unwanted kids’ items to those E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk in the local area, allowing you to help out aLittle neighbour People Media, 29 Furrow Way, and reduce waste. You can Maidenhead also use the app to look for SL6 3 NY anything you might happen to need and save some pennies.

Ari Last is a parenting guru and founder of childcare app Bubble. For more information, visit www.joinbubble.com

We are an Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ nursery providing high quality day care for children from three months to five years. Set within bright, modern Windsor Leisure Centre, our setting includes a large toddler room, pre-school room, a new snuggly baby room, and spacious outdoor garden.

Open 51 weeks a year – Accepts 30 hours funding – Highly trained team Come and look around today: Call: 01753 855543 or email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk 22

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

Parenting

Talking to kids about racial discrimination

By Suzanne Brown ‘I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character.’ Martin Luther King Jr. All parents dream of a world where their children are treated fairly, free of the various discriminations which exist. But how do we achieve this?

When and how?

The ‘when’ is easy. Start early! Scientific studies show that children have formed lifelong attitudes about skin colour by the time they reach pre-school age.

The ‘how’ is trickier but there are many ways to approach this sensitive topic. Some parents may avoid talking about racial discrimination out of concern that they will say the wrong thing and make things worse. However, if these issues are never broached we risk making race a taboo subject.

Teach kindness From babyhood we can teach our children to be givers and receivers of kind words and actions. When kindness is second nature from a young age it helps avoid situations in which discrimination arises.

Teach justice Another starting point for young children is to explore what they think is fair and unfair. Then, at a pace suitable for your child’s level and comprehension, gradually expand discussions to incorporate an understanding of racial justice.

Model good behaviour Remember, children are always watching, listening and learning

from us, particularly from our sub-conscious actions. Observing special occasions such as Black History Month and different cultural events and festivals is fantastic. However, children are more likely to pick up and imitate the attitude they see you display towards others on a daily basis.

Use resources There is a wealth of TV programmes, films, YouTube videos, racially diverse toys and books to help explain matters in an ageappropriate way. Visit www.bit.ly/FamiliesResources What if you suspect racism at school?

If your child believes a racist incident occurred at school, firstly praise them for reporting it to you. Calmly gather all the facts, reassuring your child as they go along. Try not to show your own upset or anger. Work in partnership with your child’s school for the best outcome.

Discrimination is something to be tackled in small but meaningful daily steps. It’s our little everyday actions, as well as our skill and diplomacy in dealing with bigger issues, which convince children of our integrity.

Resilience and selfacceptance

Building identity and encouraging pride

No matter who your child is and whatever their ethnicity, it is likely that at some stage in life they will be marked out as ‘different.’ Find ways from a young age to build up their resilience and self-acceptance.

Pride in their ethnicity. Whatever your child’s ethnic origin, they should wear it as a badge of honour because that’s what it is. There is so much richness in everybody’s cultural background: language, cuisine, festivals, religion, traditional dress, songs, country flags, family stories passed down from previous generations. Your child’s genuine pride in their own roots will shine through to all who meet them and help create a strong armour against any negativity they may face.

Building articulate children. Children who have the verbal ability to cope with wordplay will be less likely to be browbeaten by hurtful ‘jokes’ of a racial (or other) nature. Build the articulation of younger children with stories, role play and use regular family discussions for older children.

Teach children to make the best of themselves. In our house we like to call it building their ‘superpowers,’ - whatever makes your child special to those who know them: kindness, sense of humour, patience, loyalty, sporting/artistic/musical talent, a happy smile. Help them to celebrate these superpowers so they are regularly reminded that they (and others) are valued for more than their appearance alone. There are many books written for children of all ages which will help them embrace their own individualities and welcome the differences in others. familiesonline.co.uk

Stories. There is an abundance of stories from around the world - everything from nursery rhymes to traditional fairy tales and novels. Can your child draw parallels between the characters in these stories and themselves? The less children see different cultures as ‘other’ to themselves the better.

There is more that unites us than divides us. We all belong to one race: the human race!

Finally, don’t feel you need to be an expert on racial discrimination. The important thing is that our children see we are open to talk and willing to learn.

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

23

Every Sunday at 3.00pm Maidenhead Club Braywick Leisure Centre (Main Hall) Braywick Road Maidenhead SL6 1BN Tel: 07885 294418 or 01753 882012 Please call to book your place.

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