Families Thames Valley East Issue 72 May-June 2014

Thames Valley East May/June 2014 - Issue 72

Summer Camps & Classes Special RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle,

please call Diana Page

01235 533362 07747 086518

Try before you buy!

01628 660 893

www.justoutdoortoys.co.uk BIGGEST Display in the Thames Valley (just 5 mins from M4 J7) Abbey Rose Nursery, Nashdom Lane, Burnham SL1 8NJ

The really useful magazine for parents of children between 0 and 12 Packed with information and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

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News & Info Clubs & Classes News Education News How to survive the SATs Mindfulness: The secret to happy parenting Eating out with kids can be fun Summer Camps & Classes Directory How astrology can help you understand your child Spotlight on Charities Competitions & Offers - Win a More Than Words bespoke piece of art - Win a giant floor puzzle - Get 15% of a photography session What's On If you go down to the woods today...

Ed's Reading Room What choices do you have in childbirth?

Mums Who Mean Business Classifieds

web: FamiliesTVEast.co.uk tel: 01628 627586 fax: 08717 146 305 (calls cost 10p/min) e-mail: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editor: Claire Winter circulation: 19,500 next issue: July/August 2014 due out: July 1, featuring: Summer Holiday Fun copy/advertising deadline: June 1

The longer days and sunshine have put a smile on everyone’s faces. Our May/June issue is packed with great features and fun things to do with the family. Don’t forget to check out our Summer Camps & Classes directory on pages 12 to 17 to make sure your kids have fun during the holidays, whatever the weather. We have, as usual, some great competitions on page 21 and we can’t wait to see the launch of Once Upon a Bus, a customised double decker, offering a unique storytelling experience on May 10 (to find out more go to page 4).

We’ll be back in July with our next issue, featuring Summer Holiday Fun!

Berkshire Music and Arts Festival 2014

Save the Bees We are losing more of our bees each year and this could massively impact our food supply.

They pollinate 75% of our crops worldwide, including family favorites like strawberries, apples and tomatoes. Scientists estimate it would cost £1.8 billion every year to pollinate UK crops by hand.

It’s crucial that more is done to save the wonderful bee. According to Friends of the Earth one of the main reasons bees are struggling is because of the loss of their natural habitat.

You can help create a bee-friendly space in your garden or school by getting their Bee Saver Kit. Make a donation to the charity today and they’ll send you the kit, packed with everything you need to help our buzzy friends! Go to foe.org to find out more. Another charity Help Save the Bees (helpsavebees.co.uk) has some great tips too.

The first ever Berkshire Music and Arts Festival will take place within the magnificent Tudor manor house and grounds of Ufton Court in West Berkshire. The day-long event offers an opportunity for musicians, singers, writers and actors of all ages and abilities to perform in front of a warm and friendly audience.

The Festival takes place on 2 November but entries are open now for both schools and individuals. Simply visit berksmusicandarts.org.uk for full information on how to enter your youngster - or yourself!

The closing date for entries for Creative Writing is 21 June and for Music and Drama it’s 21 September, so there's plenty of time to prepare.

The Berkshire Music and Arts Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation, which provides arts tuition to children in the local area who may not otherwise be able to access it.

Splashing good fun at Odds Farm Park Cover Photo: www.bigstock.com

twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE

From May Half Term, a brand new Sand and Water Play area will open at Odds Farm Park. As we all know, kids love the winning combination of sand and water and children are bound to love this new addition to the farm.

A giant hand painted mural also now brightens up the demo area of the park.

It was painted by local artist Helen Vidler, who

used to work at the park. It took Helen six months to complete the 40ft wide by 12ft tall painting of a farm landscape.Visitors will be able to see the colourful backdrop when they visit one of the many animal demonstrations, which are held daily at the park. oddsfarm.co.uk

Building confidence through Performing Arts The largest network of part-time performing arts schools in the UK Nurturing and developing young potential through the performing arts For 4–18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops

Book now! - limited places!

Ascot: Bracknell Warfield: Maidenhead: Windsor:

0845 055 6369 0845 055 6382 0118 930 5200 0845 293 7207

Bracknell: 0800 707 6684 Henley, High Wycombe & Marlow: 01494 533 203 Staines: 01483 235216

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Helen Diaz Coach & Hypnotherapist Dip NLP Coach, Clin Hyp, MBIH Helping you to make positive changes to your personal or professional life.

Identify what’s holding you back.

Find out more about my 3 step plan to break free, get on track and achieve your goals.

Email me for your free 30 minute consultation and we can discuss how we can work together to achieve the change you’re looking for.

Contact details: The Marlow Clinic, 1st Floor, Crown House, Crown Road, Marlow SL7 2QG E: Helendiaz6@aol.com W: www.helendiaz.co.uk M: 07540 051895

Littlewick Green Montessori School We are a well­established Montessori Nursery set in a once Victorian primary school at the heart of the picturesque village of Littlewick Green.

Operating a 48/38 week year We take children aged 3 months ­ 5 years Open 8am­6pm We are a graduate led nursery with an experienced and friendly team who create a stimulating environment for children to play and learn in.

We also offer: • French tuition • Jo Jingles music club • Number fit- a multisensory maths group who promote fitness, fun and learning numbers • Mouse wizards- who teach the children to use the computer as a learning tool • Multisports- a sports session packed with learning about colours, numbers and fitness For further information please call or email us at:

Tel: 01628 828258(Maidenhead) Email: montessorischool@aol.com

Claire Adams celebrates 10 years with Tinies Childcare Congratulations to Claire Adams, who took ownership of her first franchise of Tinies Hertfordshire in 2004, and, having acquired her fifth branch in 2010, ten years later she’s the largest franchisee in Tinies history. Childcare has changed in the past ten years, but by constantly re-evaluating the services she offers to meet the needs of the community, Claire’s business has grown. Initially providing nannies,

she has added mobile crèche and event childcare, emergency back-up nannies and nursery staff supply to the growing list of services available. Claire has also begun to supply crèche teams to children’s centres and parenting groups, and is planning Tinies first permanent crèche in Hertfordshire/Buckinghamshire. To find out more, call 01628 522212 or visit tinies.com.

All aboard the story bus!

will transform any event into an unforgettable adventure... through the deep dark forests, over soaring mountains, tranquil villages, bustling towns and endless oceans of the imagination.

Once Upon a Bus will be running open sessions in the community as well as offering private hire services for family, corporate and PR events in a flexible, mobile space that will delight minds of all ages and unleash the creativity within all that step aboard.

They will be launching the bus on May 10 at the Jolly Gardener, Holyport, SL6 2ND, from 3 -5pm.

Find out more at Onceuponabus.com

A wonderful new world-on-wheels of storytelling is rolling into the Royal Borough! "Once Upon a Bus" has been launched to celebrate the traditional storytelling craft with entertaining sessions on a beautiful customised double-decker bus.

Specially developed to allow young people to enjoy and explore the magic of storytelling in an interactive, immersive environment, the aim is to install a passion for literacy and ultimately a love of learning.

Redesigned, inside and out, to deliver an outof-this-world experience - the storytelling bus

Share your stories This May sees the return of National Share-A-Story Month, an annual celebration of the power of storytelling and story sharing. Run by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups, Share-A-Story Month is a fantastic opportunity to bring children and stories together, with a whole host of events running across the country.

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The theme for 2014 is ‘Imagination and Inventiveness’, celebrating with Dahl & Dahl and Puffin Publishers the 50th Anniversary of the publication of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Check out the website for plenty of ideas, activity packs, posters and competition prizes. fcbg.org.uk/national-share-a-story-month

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

News & Info Fun evening of fashion and shopping in Cookham Open Day at Bourne End Nursery New Beginnings Day Nursery has a warm and loving family atmosphere, ensuring the happiness of the children as they develop in a caring, stimulating and secure environment.

Ofsted say: “Staff consistently provide children with excellent support and guidance” The nursery has an annual ‘watch the chickens hatch’, where the children see chicks hatch and grow. They have extended the theme this year with a Mobile Farm Day visiting on Thursday 22 May. This open afternoon is for the children and their parents to enjoy the animals and for prospective families who would like to have a tour of the Nursery.

There is no higher recommendation than one from a parent…Kathryn Penney writes, “I knew from the beginning that New Beginnings was ‘the one’. My son loves his time at Nursery and gets so much out of it. The warmth and support shown to the children and grown-ups by the New Beginnings family is everything any working parent can ask for. I couldn’t be happier with my choice of day care”.

To see why parents choose New Beginnings phone 01628 527717, email info@newbeginningsnursery.co.uk or call in on the Open Day, Thursday 22 May from 2pm.

Newbeginningsnursery.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

The Exceptional Women’s Evening is being held on June 5 at Moor Hall in Cookham. It promises to be a fun and social event featuring glamour, fashion, beauty and wellbeing to celebrate businesses in the local area.

The evening starts at 6pm and visitors will be greeted by canapés and a glass of fizz (included in the ticket price). The evening will start with a welcome from the event organiser and then a fashion show. There will also be the chance to look around 25 stallholders, who will be selling high quality products. There will also be pampering available from therapists, offering a range of treatments.

A percentage of the ticket price will go to the Alexander Devine Children's Hospice Service and Food Share Maidenhead, as well as the proceeds from the raffle.

Early bird tickets are £17. To buy tickets go to http://exceptionalwe.eventbrite.co.uk or email katie@exceptionalmarketing.co.uk. facebook.com/ExceptionalWomensEve ning

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New to The Marlow Clinic – Life Coach and Hypnotherapist, Helen Diaz With a successful career in the corporate world, including 8 years in Learning & Development roles, Helen Diaz had the opportunity to develop her skills in coaching and training techniques.

In her job she saw first-hand the fast and lasting results that are achievable with proper coaching. She learned strategies to deal with the stresses and anxieties caused by a busy life, identifying the root causes of what challenges us.

Leaving her corporate job three years ago, Helen’s coaching and hypnotherapy business provides a unique range of complementary processes including NLP, Hypnotherapy, Life Coaching and EFT. Her clients range from busy executives wanting promotion or needing a coach to keep their motivation on track, stressed out teenagers who want more confidence in their studies, or people struggling with an unhealthy relationship with food.

Helen recently joined The Marlow Clinic as an extension of her practice in Enfield, and she is there every Wednesday. Email her Helendiaz6@aol.com to take advantage of her special offer of a free 30minute consultation. helendiaz.co.uk

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Clubs & Classes

Go under the sea with Perform This May to July, Perform children will be diving down to a magical world full of watery adventures. They’ll meet Dolly Dolphin, Septamus the Octopus and Smelly-Fish-Jelly-Fish. Learn to dance The Fishy Funk and by the end of term rescue the Lost Pearl from the scary Deep Sea Creature.

Perform offers drama, dance and singing workshops for 4-8 year olds to focus on helping develop children’s confidence, co-ordination, communication and concentration skills.

They will also be holding special five-day courses during the summer holidays featuring Peter Pan and friends. To find out more about them go to www.perform.org.uk/peterpan.

Classes are held in Maidenhead, Windsor, Marlow, Eton, Twyford. To book a FREE TRIAL SESSION, please call 0845 400 1282 or go to www.perform.org.uk

Get your kids fit the martial arts way South-East Martial Arts Club offers local classes in Martial Arts training and Kickboxing in Maidenhead six days a week (apart from Fridays).

They are specially designed for boys and girls aged 4 to 13 years old.

The classes start with a general fitness work out, which is then followed by basic kicks and punching drills, that are great for building self defence skills. These skills will help children to develop more confidence and an enthusiastic outlook. Some of the other benefits include: self awareness, confidence, concentration, discipline and learning skills.

The classes teach practical self defence moves and have an antibullying focus. They are also non-contact and tag sparring. To book your child on a free session call 07860 431739 or email sportsmartialart@aol.com. www.southeastmartialarts.co.uk

Soar Away Together Coming soon to Marlow and Windsor Designed to let you and your little ones 0 to 3 years old wiggle, sing, and learn together, the Zumbini programme is where the science of child development meets the magic of Zumba.

Zumbini classes in Maidenhead every Thursday at Pinkneys Green Community Centre from 10am to 10.45am. For ages 0‐3. Booking Essential.

To find out more about Zumbini classes or adult Zumba classes email Niki_kitt@yahoo.co.uk or call 01628 673006 or 07775653051.

Search for Niki Kitt through Zumba.com

JD Inflatables offer a wide range of Bouncy Castles, Slides, Soft Play & Party Hire Items at great prices in Berkshire & Buckinghamshire.

• Local Profesional Family Business • Full Public Liability Insurance • FREE Rain Cancellation • Operating 363 Days a Year

www.jdinflatables.co.uk www.facebook.com/JDinflatables1 Call us now to book! 07975 716464

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Summer Tech Camps for kids and teens Wow! Have you seen what FunTech have planned for children this summer?

Established in 1996, vetted by Ofsted, featured on the BBC and Channel 4, FunTech focuses on teaching seven to 17 year olds cutting edge Tech skills.

This summer there are 14 camps to choose from including Robot Programming with LEGO NXT, Java Coder, 3D Game Design, Minecraft Redstone and FunTyper®.

FunTech helps bring learning alive. Sheineez Barber, FunTech’s Principal, says: “This summer is set to be a bumper time for us as we arrange our largest programme of summer camps to date. The level of interest has been tremendous and we have had to increase our number of locations in order to cope with the increasing demand.

“We are also very excited about our first residential venture with Tonbridge School. This isn’t just a camp. It is a portal to an amazing funfilled learning experience keeping children one step ahead. Our children will be inspired by energetic, tech-savvy instructors who help them build critical 21st century skills, whilst preparing for what our industries and businesses will demand of them.

“Go on, get on board now and give your kids a real summer treat. And remember, book as soon as you can, we get booked up very quickly.”

Locations based in the south of England including Maidenhead, Richmond, Elstree, Hampstead, Northwood & Tunbridge Wells.

To find out more about FunTech’s summer camps, visit their website at www.funtech.co.uk

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Education News

Why Choose Bishopsgate School?

Bishopsgate is a thriving IAPS co-educational preparatory school set in the heart of beautiful countryside in Englefield Green. It caters for 370 children, aged from 3 to 13.

The school aims for the highest standards of teaching and learning, developing the skills, capacities and understandings that children are going to need in order to live effectively in the 21st century.

Emphasis is placed not only on academic excellence, but also leadership qualities, inter-personal skills and a child’s contribution to the wide ranging extra-curricular life of the school.

The school offers outstanding pastoral care, supporting children through the challenges of school life and preparing them for happy and fulfilled futures. The school’s values also teach children the importance of courtesy and respect.

A broad programme of sport enables children to find something that they enjoy. In addition to all the major sports, they offer excellent coaching in rowing, judo and swimming. A busy fixture programme ensures that all their children are given opportunities to represent the school in competitive matches.

Bishopsgate’s facilities are first class. Recent developments have included a new Design Technology suite and a magnificent 25-metre indoor swimming pool. To find out more email the Registrar on admissions@bishopsgate.surrey.sch.uk or ring 01784 430460.

Walk that way It’s time to get walking again! This year’s Walk To School Week runs from 1923 May, bringing together nearly one million schoolchildren, teachers and parents.

2014’s campaign promises to be bigger and better than ever before, with plenty of fun ideas of how to get involved. With Strider’s 5-day Walking Challenge it’s easier than ever to take part, plus you also get a chance to win an iPad mini. Walk to School Week reinforces five benefits of walking: safety, discovery, health, eco-friendly and social time, so how about setting up a Park & Stride area around your school, or holding a Walk to School event and encouraging everyone to leave their cars at home for a day? Don’t forget, if you are celebrating Walk to School Week, they’d love to hear from you. Tweet them at @livingstreets using #walktoschool, or post on their Facebook page www.facebook.com/livingstreetsuk. Just remember to have fun! www.livingstreets.org.uk

Englefield Green, Surrey

Set in beautiful woodland, close to Windsor Great Park, Bishopsgate’s Nursery is blessed with a glorious learning environment.

Children join our Nursery at the age of three. Our trained staff and spacious learning areas ensure that each child is given the best possible start to life at school.

There is a warm family atmosphere as we recognise how important it is for children to feel happy and secure. We place great emphasis on building a solid foundation of social skills and a love of learning, enabling each child to settle confidently to school life. A wide variety of activities is on offer with plenty of opportunities for healthy outdoor learning, including regular visits to our Forest School. An introduction to French, Music, PE, Singing and Dance is provided by specialist teachers. Nursery swimming sessions take place in the School’s new 25-metre indoor pool.

A copy of our prospectus can be requested via our school web site, or by contacting the Registrar directly at admissions@bishopsgate.surrey.sch.uk or on

01784 430460 www.bishopsgate-school.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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Education Key Stage Two SATs Low Down Advice on how to help your child through the SATs by Sian Goodspeed, Founder of Flying Start Tuition Ltd. What are the SATs? If you are a parent of a primary-aged child, you are likely to have heard of the SATs (Standard Attainment Tests). The SATs, or National Curriculum tests, as they are officially called, are formal assessments in maths and English which are designed to measure pupil attainment in line with national expectations. They form the basis of the levels which children are given at the end of each key stage. Key Stage Two SATs are taken during the May of year six and cover levels 3-5, with level 4 being the expected national average to be achieved by the end of primary school.

For 2014, some changes have been made to the format of SATs so that the results of the tests better reflect children’s continuing progress. These include the introduction of more teacher assessment. Whilst English speaking and listening skills have always been assessed by teachers, teacher assessment will now also replace the SATs writing paper. An appraisal of your child’s schoolwork across Year 6 will be made to assess their grammar, punctuation and spelling skills, giving a more accurate picture of their progress than a single ‘snapshot’ test result. Creativity and writing style will also be considered.

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KS2 SATs Content English: • English grammar, punctuation and spelling (70 marks): Paper 1 (50 marks): • Grammar, punctuation and vocabulary • 40-50 short answer questions each worth 1-2 marks Paper 2 (20 marks): • Spelling • 20 sentences read aloud by test administrator with a word missing.

Children to complete the sentence • Reading (50 marks): • Children receive booklet containing 34 texts • One hour to read texts and complete questions • 35-40 questions each worth 1-3 marks • Short closed response questions (e.g. multiple choice), short open response and longer open response questions, which require children to explain and comment on texts Maths: • Paper 1 and 2: • Non-calculator • 45 minutes each • Paper 3: • Mental maths • 20 minutes

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Do the SATs matter?

Whilst there is no ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ with SATs, many parents are keen for their child to do the best they possibly can in these tests as good performance indicates a good, solid grasp of the primary maths and English curriculum. Strong SATs results mean children hit the ground running as they enter Key Stage Three; and results are passed on to secondary schools, sometimes forming the basis of initial pupil streaming. Also important to note, is that many grammar schools will only accept applications for the 12+ tests from pupils who have achieved level 5s in their SATs. How to help your child prepare As a parent, you may well be wondering what you can do to help your child. Children should not need any extra preparation for the SATs since all the areas to be tested are covered in school. However, if your child is not working at expected levels for literacy and numeracy, any extra support you can give them will have a positive impact on their all-round progress, which will then feed into their SATs scores. Ideally, this should be ongoing support, rather than simply undertaken during the run up to the tests.

The good news is, that when it comes to raising literacy and numeracy levels, the best place to start is in the home and there are a number of simple activities that can make a positive impact without taking up too much additional time. There is also a wealth of resources both

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Education

online and in bookshops designed to boost children’s numeracy and literacy skills; as well as many resources geared towards the SATs. Suggested activities • Reading and comprehension - encourage your child to read a wide range of authors and genres and talk to your child about what they have read. Encourage them to ask about unfamiliar words and to keep a word book for new words and definitions. Don’t expect them to write down every new word, though, as this could take the enjoyment away from the story.

• Developing vocabulary – particularly finding synonyms, antonyms, compound words and building lists of vocabulary around certain topics, eg. different occupations, animal family names etc.

• Regular spelling practice – use the Year 5 and Year 6 spelling lists (ask your child’s teacher or tutor) and help them to identify words that sound the same but are spelt differently (eg. hair / hare) and words that have different meanings (eg. row – to argue / row – a boat).

Telephone: 01628 627 586

• Regular practice to increase speed of recall of maths facts, eg. number bonds, times tables and division facts.

• Developing rapid written maths skills.

• Practice of all key maths topics in the Year 5 and 6 maths curriculum.

Remember: with any activity, little and often are most effective and, above all, your child needs to be engaged and having fun to benefit fully from the experience.

SATs Stress Busters – How to stay calm and focused throughout During SATs week: • Don’t do any practice the night before the tests. Instead, do something fun and relaxing.

• Have an early night each night. Ensure your child does a wind-down activity before going to bed such as reading a book or having a bath.

• Have a decent breakfast on the day (the brain needs food).

• Drink plenty of water on the day (but not too much).

• Leave home with a positive attitude – remind your child how much they know and reassure them that whatever the outcome of their SATs, you love them and are proud of them.

During the tests: • Before each test starts, go into the ‘Learning State’. The Learning State is a good state to be in to enhance concentration and reduce nerves.

(Good for parents too!). For detailed instructions, see the resources page of Flying Start Tuition’s website.

• Concentrate on the test questions

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throughout. Other children may be fidgeting but you should keep focused and not worry about what anyone else is doing. If you find yourself losing concentration, go back into the Learning State.

• If you are stuck on a question, don’t spend too long thinking about it. If possible, make a guess, then circle the question on the paper and move on. Come back to it later if you have time.

• Do the workings-out – especially if instructed to do so! Doing the workings-out makes answering the questions quicker, since you are less likely to lose your train of thought and you will also have something to check if there is time.

• For spelling questions, write out the words if at all unsure and this should help you to see the answer.

• If you are running out of time, aim to do the quicker questions first and then go back to the harder ones if you have any time left.

• If you finish a test before the time is up, check, check and check again!

• Above all, stay calm and focused and keep it in perspective. Simply treat the tests as any other exercises you do at school. Do the best you can with each one and then put it out of your mind.

For more detailed advice and guidance on how to support your child’s maths and English at home, please see the ‘resources’ page of www.flyingstarttuition.co.uk.

For information on Flying Start’s SATs or Primary Maths and English courses, please email: hello@flyingstarttuition.co.uk or call 01494 772898.

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Parenting Mindfulness, the secret to happy parenting

By Mette Theilmann indfulness is the difference between being a DOer and a BEer. As parents today, we often experience high levels of pressure and stress to make sure our children become well-rounded individuals. We pack their lives with a variety of activities and sports clubs to keep them fit, sociable and confident, encourage them to do well at school, make the right friends and painstakingly pore over every decision about their education. The daily routine of family life with all its chores and demands and our own feelings of responsibility to ensure our children are confident, independent, responsible and happy can all make for very stressed and exhausted parents. Basically what I am saying is that if we are not physically on the go, we are mentally on the go; thinking about what to do and where to be next.

It’s no wonder that 90% of parents describe themselves as frantic rather than fun. It’s no wonder that parents today have become DOers rather than BEers.

It’s not helped by the fact we’re always having to take calls, check texts and e-mails; our children quickly realise they don’t have our full attention when we’re attached to our tablet, laptop or phone! This can also create huge challenges when we try and tackle the issue of their screen time too. The effect of this “full on all the time” way of life is that we are never really in the moment or mindfully there for ourselves or our children and this can have a negative effect on us both!

For us, it can cause stress/irritability and exhaustion and we can start to react to situations in a much more negative way. We stop listening properly to our children; we are just

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too busy thinking about other things. We forget to enjoy the small moments with them and sadly miss out on opportunities to praise them. We then often start to feel guilty as deep down we know that this is not the parent we want to be and we can start to lose our confidence as a parent. This can encourage self-doubt in our children too as they can start to think that we don’t want to be with them. They start playing up to get our full attention as they know we always react when they are fighting or misbehaving. They feel that we are not listening and start not listening to us, or each other. They start mimicking our behaviour and becoming like us!!

Our stress is being passed on to them.

But the good news is that the key to mindfulness can be achieved by anyone, anywhere.

Mindfulness aims for you to fully focus on each moment you are with your children.

Mindfulness helps you to find the balance between being a DOer and a BEer. When we do become “mindfully there”, we become a great role model for our children based on respect, care and deep love. Since we are fully aware of what they say, do and feel we really get to know our children again and re-connect with them. We feel proud of ourselves at the end of each day as we feel we are doing the right thing, even if things haven’t gone to plan! We gain energy and motivation as a parent as we start to see the same emotions and feelings manifesting themselves in our children. We will have a positive and dynamic focus on problem-solving in stressful situations and become more open-

minded to positive discipline. Our children develop healthy social skills based on listening and respect for other people. They become like us (and in a good way!) and we start to have fun together again!

Awareness is the first key to mindfulness.

Our daily tasks and challenges are not going to go away but when you become aware that you are not “in the moment” and are just too busy thinking about other things or multi-tasking, remind yourself why you need to focus now.

Relax your body, breathe slowly and look at your children and smile. Try to think more calmly and remember that mindful parents become essentially better able to manage difficult situations and issues arising in the family and within themselves.

ParentingSuccess offers parenting workshops and one-to-one parent coaching on all family issues. The next workshop is being held on May 15 in Englefield Green. To find out more go to www.parentingsuccesscoaching.com.

“I started to enjoy every moment with my family, good and bad, instead of always being on my way to doing something else or thinking about doing it.”

Suzanne, Berks

BrightSparks Education Centre in Marlow provides a range of tutoring services for children from ages 5 to 16.

We are committed to ensuring that every child reaches their full potential in a happy and secure learning environment.

BrightSparks offers: • Weekly Maths and English tuition for ages 5 – 16 • Weekly 11+ and Common Entrance Exam tuition • Touch typing courses for all ages

www.brightsparksmarlow.co.uk

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Eating Out With Kids Can Be Fun…

Eating Out

As a parent, few things can match a toddler’s meltdown in a busy restaurant - the table and child getting covered in pasta sauce and a jug of water smashing on the floor, as everyone watches.

hile some parents won’t entertain going anywhere without plastic plates and ball-pits (soft play coffee shops), most of us enjoy eating out. However, as Brits we feel self-conscious and uncomfortable if our children are anything but perfectly behaved in public.

My boys are now seven and four and we eat out at least once a week, probably more. We are proof that you don’t have to shovel and run being prepared, having a sense of humour and setting realistic expectations helps you to have a great time.

The key is to stay calm and relaxed – yes, I really did say that out loud! Easier said than done sometimes, but children will make a fuss and noise, it’s what they do. Let go of minor transgressions to save a battle that could spoil the whole outing. Aim for good behavior, no shouting and polite manners and you can’t go far wrong.

Start early, I don’t mean arriving hours before Gina Ford says it’s lunchtime (although do take note of busy service times). If you get your children used to eating out from an early age it

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Telephone: 01628 627 586

will seem normal, not stressful, for all of you. I laughed when a friend told me her son was so used to eating out that at the age of three he piped up “compliments to the chef” at the end of every meal.

Go for family friendly restaurants - plenty provide kid’s menus, colouring sheets, crayons, mini cutlery and little glasses - rather than opting for fine dining where children aren’t on the menu.

Cram a bag with magazines, cars, books and an Apple product or two. Whilst not approved of by everyone, an iPad can help prevent boredom and arguments, and if there are raised eyebrows, just smile. In case service is slow, chuck in snacks to keep hunger at bay along with a pack of wipes and hand gel for those emergency moments.

If you have older children, eating out is an opportunity to engage and reconnect. Talking about school and upcoming holidays, new films and what their friends are up to, can get left behind with the rush of book bags and learning logs.

I know we live in an organic, five a day, lowsugar kind of world, but going out for dinner is a treat and not the time to try out macrobiotic fads. I am not saying ‘go large’, but let little ones decide what they’d like to eat whilst ensuring that there is some fresh fruit and veg. Check the portion sizes and ask for a cold plate to cool down hot food a little faster and prevent burnt fingers and tears.

Obviously I am not a complete dining out expert, so I called in the help of a few friends for their tips too: “We go to child-friendly places, sit in a booth

MAY/JUNE 2014

if we can and ask for John’s meal to come out before ours because he’s a slow eater who gets easily distracted as this keeps him occupied and we get to finish our dinner too”.

“Keep it short if you have a restless child, asking for your bill at the same time as dessert or coffee speeds things up and prevents tears before bedtime, but you still feel like you have had a full meal with all the extras”.

“If you go to the loo, don’t rush to get back to the table, or you too may walk back through the restaurant with your dress tucked into your pants for all to admire.”

Try to remember, when you go out to eat with your children you have as much right to be there as much as anyone else. If people are looking at you, it’s probably because they’re impressed with your parenting skills, your children’s manners and those fab new LK Bennett heels you are wearing.

P.S – if you are eating at a well know pizza chain watch out for the over flowing ice cream machine at the buffet as you don’t want to slip and spill your salad and bacon bits everywhere.

Natalie Trice is a freelance journalist, writer and awardnominated blogger, she knows a thing or two about PR and social media too.

She’s also a Mummy to two small boys, wife to Oliver and an owner of a cat and a dog. When she isn't writing or networking on Facebook, Natalie is an avid shopper, coffee drinker and collector of handbags and shoes. www.passionateaboutwords.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Summer Camps & Classes

Summer fun all day long!

It’s May and summer is ages away, or is it? Just think in eight to ten weeks or so, that’s it, end-of-term, and then what? Don’t get caught out, plan ahead and life will be a lot easier.

Children like to know what they will be doing during the summer break, it gives them a focus and something to get excited about. And if you’re a working parent it’s great to know your child will be entertained and happy, whilst you are at work.

When you ring, please don’t forget to say you saw them in Families.

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*MAIDENHEAD and district* Alekhya Art Classes will be conducting Summer ART AND CRAFT WORKSHOPS in Maidenhead (and Wokingham) for children between the ages 4.5 -16 years. A range of craft activities from Mosaics, Batik to Silk Painting will be covered. Children will also get an opportunity to get introduced to various mediums like Water Colours on handmade paper, Acrylic Colours on canvas, Dry Pastels on tinted paper etc. For more information please email shalinib@gmail.com or call 01628 634418/07896 165819. www.alekhyaartclasses.com.wix.com/maidenhead Bray Lake Watersports will be running COURSES at their centre in Monkey Island Lane, Windsor Road, Maidenhead, from July 14 – September 1. Beginner, improver and advanced (coaching) courses – windsurfing, sailing or kayaking. Times: 9.30am-5.00pm. Age: 8-15yrs. Cost: £249. Watersports Weeks – beginner, improver and advanced. Times: 9.305pm. Age: 10-15yrs. Cost: £249 per child.

Multi-Activity week - Spend five days learning a new activity each day; windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding. Times: 9.30am-5.00pm. Age:8-12 yrs. Cost: £239 for five days. Early booking advisable. Sibling and group discounts available. 01628 638860. www.braylake.com

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Summer Camps & Classes Come and Join the Wild Bunch. FAMILY ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS at the Braywick Nature Centre, Hibbert Road, throughout the school holidays. Call: 01628 777 440 web: www.groundworksouthlearning.org.uk email: Michael.moritz@groundwork.org.uk Dance Inspired will be running an exciting Street Dance SUMMER CAMP in Maidenhead from 11-15 August, for ages 7+. Students will learn moves, dance routines and freestyle in Hip Hop, House, Break Dancing, Locking and Popping. It promises to be lots of fun! Suitable for all dance abilities. For more information call 07743 551501 or visit www.danceinspired.co.uk Funtech is holding TECH SUMMER CAMPS in Maidenhead and a residential camp in Tonbridge, Kent, for children aged 7 to 16. On the Lego NXT course they’ll learn valuable ICT and programming skills, whilst engrossed in the process of designing the ultimate robot.

Meanwhile, on the FunTyper course a series of creative games will teach kids valuable touch-typing skills. They offer your child an exceptional learning experience in a fun, informal and respectful environment. All their staff are passionate about computer science, ensuring an amazing summer learning experience for your child. Call 01628 621215 or 621216. www.funtech.co.uk Hartbeeps will be holding music & sensory CLASSES in Maidenhead during the summer. Sessions include Babybells from birth to sitting; Babybeeps from sitting to walking; and Happy House from walking to four years. For more information call Liz on 07985 935662 or email berkshire@hartbeeps.com. www.hartbeeps.com JR Rugby is holding a HOLIDAY CAMP at Maidenhead RFC from 25 27 August; for boys and girls age 4-12 from 9am (8.30am drop off) to 3pm. 4-8 years will learn rugby skills in the ‘Tag’ rugby group. 9-12 years will be in the ‘contact group’ and learn skills such as, tackling, support play and decision making. Extended hours available. Cost £35 per day, £80 for 3 days. To find out more email enquiries@jrrugby.co.uk or call 07809 222815. www.jrrugby.co.uk The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead’s Get Active Rangers will be running a programme of ACTIVITIES, in borough youth centres for young people aged 8 – 13 during the summer holidays. Activities include: canoeing, sailing, woodland skills and more. For more information call on 01628 683964 or visit www.wamster.org.uk MAD Academy is running its ever popular SUMMER PROGRAMME of classes during August. Check Emma & Kate’s pages on the website for the latest information, www.madacademy.com Magnet Leisure Centre and Cox Green Leisure Centre will be running a wide selection of ACTIVITIES during July and August. Please see www.rbwm.gov.uk for full information on times, prices and booking.

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Messy Monets will be holding summer ARTS AND CRAFT FUN DAYS at various locations over the summer holidays. Events are aimed at children of all ages. Look out for dates and locations on their website and facebook page www.messymonets.co.uk and www.facebook.com/messymonets Norden Farm is bringing back the beach due to popular demand, there will be crafts and story telling every day. BEACH CRAFT (except Mondays), 11am-12.pm, £5 per person. STORY DEN, every day, 1.15pm1.45pm, £2 per child. Booking recommended. www.nordenfarm.org Redroofs Theatre School is running ONSTAGE HOLIDAY WEEKS at their school in Littlewick Green, Maidenhead SL6 3QY, for children aged 6-14. Course fees £220. Enjoy beautiful gardens and an optional heated swimming pool. Mon 28 July – Fri 1 August, Revolting Children Week for ages 6-12; Mon 4 – Fri 8 August, Frozen week, for ages 7-13; Mon 11- Fri 15 August, Peter Pan - A Swashbuckling Musical, ages 7-13; Mon 18- Fri 21 August, A Charlie Bucketful of Musicals, ages 5-8; Mon 26 - Fri 30 August, Summer School for Broadway Stars, ages 7-14. Call 01628 674092; www.redroofs.co.uk Seriously Fun Swimming Schools are running school holiday CRASH COURSE swimming lessons at St Piran's School, Maidenhead, for children aged 3-12. May half-term 26 -30 May, costs £70. Summer Holidays, 28 July - 1st August, cost £70. For more details call 01753 364 364 or go to www.seriouslyfun.com Stagecoach Maidenhead is running two one-week HOLIDAY THEATRE WORKSHOPS from Mon 4 - Fri 8 August and Mon 18 – Fri 22 August at Altwood School. Early Stages, ages 4-6: 9.30am-12.30pm. Final Show at 12.30pm. £75 per child and £35 for siblings. Main School: Ages 616, full days from 10am-4pm. Final Show at 4pm. Cost: £125 and £75 for siblings. 0118 9305200; or email maidenhead@stagecoach.co.uk.

Fun party games with meaning

Call Pete on 07721 422554 or 01628 821145, or email to: pete_holmes@tiscali.co.uk

11th -15th & 18th - 22nd August 2014

£28 per day £115 per week £220 for the whole camp

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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Summer Camps & Classes Star Hotshots multi-activity sports camp is holding HOLIDAY CAMPS at St Pirans School, Maidenhead, St Joseph’s College, Reading and Reading Blue Coat School, Sonning from July 21 to August 29, from 8am to 6pm, for children aged 4-14. Staffed by qualified PE teachers. For ages 4-10yrs there are games and activities to develop sports skills plus sport specific sessions, including swimming. Ages 11-14yrs can enjoy a variety of new sports such as Archery, Global VX, Golf, Handball, Street Dance, Street Surfing, Taekwondo, Tchoukball and Trampolining, OFSTED registered. To find out more call 0845 301 0450, www.starhotshots.co.uk Swimkidz East Berkshire is running their popular and successful summer SWIM SCHOOLS for the second year running at Claires Court School in Maidenhead. Courses are designed to prepare children for summer so they are safer in and around water. They also improve water confidence and swimming technique. All ages and abilities will be catered for in small groups of six children. So, whether you’re looking for a short-term baby/toddler course, a complete beginner class, an intermediate or advanced stages course, they will have something to suit your needs. Call 07860 652190 or email: paul@swimkidz.co.uk.

To find out more go to swimkidz.co.uk MOVIE MARTIAL ARTS SUMMER CAMP with The Samurai Fitness Group at Holy Trinity School, Cookham, SL6 9QJ. An exciting summer camp teaching martial art techniques from the movies including, kickboxing, flips, flying kicks and throws! Safe, CRB checked, expert instructors. From 9am to 3pm, 11- 15 & 18 – 22 August 2014. For ages 4 to 6 and 7 to 12. £28 for 1 day, £115 a week or £220 for the whole camp (sibling discounts available). For beginners or children with martial art experience. Tel: 07828 534817; www.TheSamuraiFitnessGroup.com

*SLOUGH* Burnham Lighthouse will be running their CHRISTIAN HOLIDAY CLUB at Burnham Grammar School, Hogfair Lane, from Monday 28 July to 1 August, for or ages 4-11. Preregistration is essential via the website www.lighthouseburnham.org.uk.

Join an Energy Kidz, Ofsted registered Holiday Club for an action packed school holiday. Energy Kidz will revolutionise your child’s school holiday, helping to ensure every moment is an enjoyable one. Their action packed days and fun filled activities for children, aged 4-12, include: Treasure Hunts, Dodge Ball, Tennis, Cooking, Xbox Kinect and much, much more. Simply choose between individual days or a week at an Energy Kidz Holiday Club.

Running in: Slough, Windsor, Crowthorne, Spencers Wood, Woodley, Wargrave/Twyford, Winnersh, Wokingham and Caversham. Call Energy Kidz on 0845 519 4470, email info@energy-kidz.co.uk or visit www.EnergyKidz.co.uk to book your child a place.

Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver Heath, will be running SUMMER ACTIVITIES for ages 4-11, during May half-term, July and August. Also at the Elsdale Floating Classroom in Uxbridge. Call 01895 270730 or visit www.ivernature.com for more details.

Seriously Fun Swimming Schools are running school holiday CRASH COURSE swimming lessons at the Teikyo School, Wexham, for children aged 3-12. May half-term 26 -30 May, costs £70. Summer Holidays, 28 July - 1st August, cost £70. For more details call 01753 364 364 or go to www.seriouslyfun.com

Energy Kidz on 0845 519 4470, email info@energy-kidz.co.uk or visit www.EnergyKidz.co.uk to book your child a place.

Ezee Swim offers one-to-one swimming crash courses during the holidays in Windsor and the surrounding area. For more information go to www.ezeeswim.co.uk or call 01344 885675.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead’s Get Active Rangers will be running a programme of ACTIVITIES, in borough youth centres for young people aged 8 – 13 during the summer holidays. Activities include: Zumba classes, canoeing, sailing, woodland skills and more. For more information call 01628 796744 or visit www.wamster.org.uk

*WINDSOR* Blossom Ballet are holding Playful, imaginative SUMMER SCHOOL CLASSES for 18 months - 8 years including Ballet, Tap, Modern and Jazz. In Windsor at the Fire Station Arts Centre from 12 – 15 August.

Please visit www.blossomballet.com for more information or contact Miss Lucy on 07813084283 or email lucy@blossomballet.com Join an Energy Kidz, Ofsted registered Holiday Club for an action packed school holiday. Energy Kidz will revolutionise your child’s school holiday, helping to ensure every moment is an enjoyable one. Their actions packed days and fun filled activities for children aged 4-12 include: Treasure Hunts, Dodge Ball, Tennis, Cooking, Xbox Kinect and much, much more.Simply choose between individual days or a week at an Energy Kidz Holiday Club.

Running in: Windsor, Slough, Crowthorne, Spencers Wood, Woodley, Wargrave/Twyford, Winnersh, Wokingham and Caversham. Call

Action packed days of fun filled activities for children aged 4-11 years old, all delivered within a safe and supervised environment at the following schools: Wildmoore Health Primary – Crowthorne Lambs Lane – Spencers Wood The Piggott School – Wargrave Hilltop First School – Windsor Hawthorns Primary school – Wokingham The Coombes School – Arborfield Emmer Green Primary – Caversham Willow Bank Junior School – Woodley

Running 8am – 6pm

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Pre-school cooking classes for 21⁄2 - 5 year olds, Winkfield, Berkshire **BOOK NOW** Jenn@minimasterchefs.co.uk www.minimasterchefs.co.uk tel: 01344 526 451

Blossom Ballet

Making Music Magic!

For babies & pre‐schoolers For a FREE taster class

or for further information please contact Lucy:

07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com Summer School dates: 12th - 15th August

Blossom Ballet is about having lots of fun and making new friends.

Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Birch Hill and Maidenhead.

Maidenhead, Windsor, Cookham, Burnham, Stoke Poges & Bracknell Contact Liz 07985 935662, liz@hartbeeps.com For Marlow Contact Kerraleigh Child 07866 656366, kerraleigh@hartbeeps.com

www.hartbeeps.com

CALL TO BOOK NOW For advertising in our July/August issue due out June 1.

Featuring: Summer Holiday Fun

Call: 01628 627586

JR Rugby is a rugby coaching specialist, which can offer: • After School Cubs in your child’s school • School Holiday Camps in your area • Birthday Party packages All our coaches are:

• CRB checked • RFU Qualified • First Aid Trained Whatever you choose JR Rugby for, you can be rest assured that your child will learn new or improve their skills in rugby in a fun, safe environment.

For more information please e-mail enquries@jrrugby.co.uk or call on 07809 222815 • www.jrrugby.co.uk

Summer Camp in August

Telephone: 01628 627 586

www.swimkidz.co.uk paul@swimkidz.co.uk call Paul Daniels 07860 652190 www.facebook.co.uk/swimkidz

For Little Kickers & Little Rugby classes in Maidenhead, Bourne End, Henley, Marlow & Stokenchurch. Call 01628 526 584 or email bevans@littlekickers.co.uk.

For Little Kickers classes in Ascot, Langley, Windsor & Eton call 07412 166 686 or email sleslie@littlekickers.co.uk.

Call for Birthday Party entertainment information

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Summer Camps & Classes

T: M330 303 0101

E: bookings@alfcharity.org

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Building confidence through performing arts

Join in the fun at Stagecoach!

Stagecoach is a part-time theatre school, teaching singing, dance and drama to children aged 4 -18 years in Henley, High Wycombe and Marlow.

Being a Stagecoach student is about joining in, making new friends, but most of all having fun!

Along the way your child will learn skills in singing, dance and drama, which OLSWZ KL]LSVW [OL JVUÄKLUJL [OL` ULLK in later life.

Stagecoach teaches children balance, voice projection, co-ordination,

*MARLOW & M40 CORRIDOR*

ÅL_PIPSP[` PTWYV]PZH[PVU HUK T\JO much more!

We also run workshops in the Easter and Summer holidays, which are open to everyone and allow children to become part of a team dedicated to creating a performance they can be proud of.

There is no need to audition, and places are limited so book your place now!

For further information, please contact your local principal Clare Gosling on 01494 533203

www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe www.stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow

Stagecoach Henley, High Wycombe and Marlow

Holiday

Holiday Workshops Workshops booking booking now! now!

4th-8th august

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Hartbeeps will be holding music & sensory CLASSES in Windsor during the summer. Sessions include Babybells from birth to sitting; Babybeeps from sitting to walking; and Happy House from walking to four years. For more information call Liz on 07985 935662; email liz@hartbeeps.com or visit www.hartbeeps.com Holiday ART & CRAFT ACTIVITIES at Hands-On-Art Adventures in Old Windsor: clay workshops; potters wheel experiences; Stay & Paint, Patch or Foam offers. Free Parking! For more details go to www.handsonartadventures.co.uk or call Janet on 01753 206265 JR Rugby is holding a HOLIDAY CAMP at Windsor RFC from 4 - 8 August; for boys and girls age 4-12 from 9am (8.30am drop off) to 3pm.

4-8 years will learn rugby skills in the ‘Tag’ rugby group. 9-12 years will be in the ‘contact group’ and learn skills such as, tackling, support play and decision making. Extended hours available. Cost £25 per day, £110 for a week, To find out more email enquiries@jrrugby.co.uk or call 07809 222815. www.jrrugby.co.uk Little Kickers will be running a SUMMER COURSE during the summer holidays in Windsor, for children aged between 2-7. A fun introduction to football. Check the website for dates and availability, www.littlekickers.co.uk. Or you can email sleslie@litttlekickers.co.uk for details or call 07412 166 686.

Join a Perform HOLIDAY DRAMA WORKSHOP for 4-8 year olds, based on the story of “Peter Pan” Clewer Youth and Community Centre, Windsor from Monday 11 August to Friday 15 August, from 10am to 12pm each day. Join Wendy, Peter Pan and Tinkerbell on an amazing adventure! With original songs and live music, your child will enjoy a fun-packed week ending with a lively performance and colourful costumes and props that will delight family and friends. They also offer a 25% discount for siblings attending the same course at the same venue.

Call 0845 400 1282; email enquiries@perform.org.uk; www.perform.org.uk Phoenix Gymnastics Club will be holding their ever popular DAILY SUMMER CAMPS throughout the holidays for the over-5’s. Have fun and be taught gymnastics by our qualified coaches and enjoy the experience in our fully equipped gym with beam, bars and vaults. Go to www.phoenixgym.co.uk for all the information. Or email us at phoenixevents@live.com or call 01628 778 881 to book your place.

Windsor Leisure Centre will be running its FUN FACTORY HOLIDAY PROGRAMME for children aged 5-12 years 8.30-5.00pm.

Also, AQUAZONE HOLIDAY SWIMMING CRASH COURSES over five days, for children from 3 ½ years onwards. Contact the centre on 01753 778577 for details.

01494 533203

Longridge, in Quarry Wood Road, Marlow, is running HOLIDAY ACTIVITY DAYS for ages 8-14 in May half-term and through the summer from 8.45am-5.30pm. Mainly water-based activities such as sailing, kayaking, rafting and bell boating. 0330 303 0101; www.longridge.org.

Stagecoach High Wycombe and Marlow will be holding HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS at Wycombe High School, Marlow Hill, High Wycombe, from Monday 4 - Friday 8 August. PIRATES AND PRINCESSES (4-6yrs), 9.30am-12.30pm, £50 deposit, £90, sibling £70. Enter the magical world of Fairy Tales as a swashbucking pirate or a playful princess. This 5 day workshop is perfect for budding young performers.

PETER PAN: THE MUSICAL (6-16yrs), 10.00am-4.00pm, £50 deposit, £130, sibling £90. Fly away with to Neverland! This summer, Stagecoach will be creating "Peter Pan: The Musical" in just one week! Help retell this favourite family story, with lost boys, pirates and just a little bit of pixie dust. Courses also running in Henley. Workshops are open to all; there's limited spaces available, so get booking now! Call 01494 533203 or email highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk; www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombeandmarlow Super Camps will be running MULTI-ACTIVITY, RAW ADVENTURE and A PASSION FOR camps (for children aged 4 to 14 years) during the 2014 Summer Holidays at Sir William Borlase's Grammar School in Marlow. Built around a cloister incorporating the original 17th century building to which a large number of new, specialist design and technology facilities have been added. Camp core hours are 9am to 5pm with extended hours 8am to 9am and 5pm to 6pm available for a small additional charge. Tel 01235 467 300 or book online www.supercamps.co.uk

MAY/JUNE 2014

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Summer Camps & Classes Super Camps will be running MULTI-ACTIVITY, RAW ADVENTURE and A PASSION FOR camps (for children aged 4 to 14 years) during the 2014 Summer Holidays at The Royal Grammar School in High Wycombe.

This is holiday childcare that sets a benchmark for excitement - with superb swimming and the full array of activities both outdoors and in the comfort of a purpose built centre. Camp core hours are 9am to 5pm with extended hours 8am to 9am and 5pm to 6pm available for a small additional charge. Tel 01235 467 300 or book online www.supercamps.co.uk Wycombe Sports Centre, Marlow Hill, will be running CAMP ADVENTURE for children age 6-12 during the holidays call 01494 688100 for details. www.leisurecentre.com.

• Kids Art Clubs • Pottery Painting • Adult Art Classes & Workshops • Corporate Meetings & Events • Parties 12‐6pm Tues‐Fri (after‐school parties & pottery painting!)

10am‐5pm Sat & School Hols

*ASCOT and BRACKNELL district* Altwood School - ages 4-16 years Summer Workshops 4th-8th August Summer Workshops 18th-22nd August Open to beginners, learn a show in a week, call now for theme!

Prices £75 for 4-6yrs and £125 for 6-16yrs

Recruiting now!

Call: 0118 930 5200

May Half Term 2014 (27- 30th)

THIS NEW R YEA mp Club in Wraysbury. New venues soon to be er Ca Summ soon to confirmed near Windsor & Staines s e u n October Half Term 2014 (27-31st) Ve ounced Clubs in Wraysbury & Old Windsor be ann Clubs in Wraysbury & Old Windsor

Summer Break 2014 (28 & 29th)

The Gap Club c/o Kings Court First School, Ash Brook Road, Old Windsor, Berkshire SL4 2NE

Tel: 07854 078 728

email: hc_thegapclub@yahoo.co.uk

QUALITY ASSURED HOLIDAY CHILDCARE

Amanda’s Art Classes for small groups aged 6-13 will be running in North Ascot during the summer, from 10am-12pm. Cost: £18. Call 01344 885086 or 0796882 4560 for further details. www.amandasart.co.uk JEMA Swim School SUMMER CRASH COURSE, Children from 3yrs at Christchurch CofE School,Virginia Water. 30 min lessons each day w/c 28th July & 4th Aug contact - Chris 07702 412090 or email cshep66@hotmail.co.uk JR Rugby is holding a HOLIDAY CAMP at Bracknell RFC from 28 July 1 August; for boys and girls age 4-12 from 9am (8.30am drop off) to 3pm.

4-8 years will learn rugby skills in the ‘Tag’ rugby group. 9-12 years will be in the ‘contact group’ and learn skills such as, tackling, support play and decision making. Extended hours available. Cost £25 per day, £110 for a week, To find out more email enquiries@jrrugby.co.uk or call 07809 222815. www.jrrugby.co.uk MAD Academy is running its ever popular SUMMER PROGRAMME of classes during August. Check the Emma & Kate’s pages on the website for the latest information, www.madacademy.com Redroofs Theatre School is running ONSTAGE HOLIDAY WEEKS at Novello Theatre Sunninghill, Ascot, SL5 9NE, for children aged 6-14.

Course fees £220. Get to perform in their beautiful Victorian theatre.

Mon 28 July – Fri 1 August, Stars Onstage, ages 7-13; Mon 4 August-Fri 8 August, Revolting Children Week, ages 7-13; Mon 11- Fri 15 August, Frozen Week ages 7-13. Call 01628 674092; www.redroofs.co.uk Super Camps will be running MULTI-ACTIVITY, RAW ADVENTURE and A PASSION FOR camps (for children aged 4 to 14 years) during the 2014 Summer Holidays at Hurst Lodge School, Ascot This is a great venue for a holiday camp, with outdoor activities and bushcraft sessions as well as swimming, archery and indoor arts and crafts sessions. Camp core hours are 9am to 5pm with extended hours 8am to 9am and 5pm to 6pm available for a small additional charge. Tel 01235 467 300 or book online www.supercamps.co.uk

*EGHAM & BERKS-SURREY BORDERS* The Gap Club will be running its Summer Camp in Wraysbury Primary School & 2 other venues soon to be announced. 28 July - 29 August 29.

Our themes include Celebrations in Brazil, Space Invasion, City Breaks & so much more. Times: 8.30-4.30pm or 6.30pm. From 3 years upwards, book weeks or individual days. Please call 07854 078 728; hc_thegapclub@yahoo.co.uk Genevieve The Gallery will be OPEN EVERY DAY during the holidays at 13 Victoria Street, Englefield Green. Select from a wide range of mugs, vases, bowls and egg cups etc. and add your own design in our workshop.

Call: 01784 430516; www.genevievethegallery.co.uk Runnymede Borough Council will be running a PLAYSCHEME for 5 to 15 year olds during the school holidays this summer at various locations in Runnymede. Details are available from their website www.runnymede.gov.uk or by calling 01932 425688.

Stagecoach Staines is running WORKSHOPS from 28 July - 1 August at Thomas Knyvett College, Stanwell Rd, Ashford, Middlesex, TW15 3DU. A LITTLE SUMMER FUN WORKSHOP for 4-7 year olds, from 9.45am12.45pm. A SUMMER FUN WORKSHOP for 7-18 years olds from 10am4pm. The workshops will consist of a week of singing, dancing and drama culminating in a show for friends and family on the last day. No Stagecoach experience necessary. Stagecoach Staines’ shows are always a spectacle to watch with professional lighting, sound and costumes. Please call 01483 235216 or email staines@stagecoach.co.uk or go to www.stagecoach.co.uk/staines for details or to register.

Please go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/SummerCamps2014 to see our larger listings online Details correct at time of going to press (April 2014) but may be subject to change.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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Sign of the times Understanding why our children behave as they do is never easy. Local astrologer Jo Munro explains why sometimes the answer could be in the stars. s parents, we all sometimes struggle to understand our children’s behaviour. Why are the terrible twos an especially challenging phase? Why can teenagers become withdrawn and sulky? Astrology can give us a deeper insight to the psychological reasons behind the traits and behaviours of our children; we just need to know what we are looking for.

When children are about 22 months old (or the terrible twos), the planet Mars returns home to the position it was in at the time of birth. The toddler unconsciously feels the re-visitation of this original energy and begins to express it. In Greek mythology, Mars is ruled by Ares, the god of war. The ‘I want’ demand is purely Mars – courage, assertion and immediate ‘wants’ are being acted out by your child. At this point, a pattern is being formed and the manner in which your child expresses and initiates their demands will carry on through their lifetime (although hopefully in a more civilised form).

Think about how Mars manifests itself through your child – perhaps as spontaneous, fearless, impulsive, charming, manipulative or even chilled? Then think if your Mars’ energy is compatible with your child’s, or is your partner’s Mars more in tune? Look up the position of your child’s Mars at www.astro.com to see if it’s in an earth, air, fire or water sign for an explanation of what this means. If your energy is very different from your child, but theirs is more compatible with your partner, it can perhaps be helpful to hand over at this point – take a breath and think: ‘It’s not me, it’s them!’

By the time the child reaches seven, another important turn of the astrological

A

clock has taken place. Saturn makes a right angle to its original position, stirring up themes of maturity and responsibility.

Saturn (or Cronus) the timekeeper appears in seven-year cycles; these mark times of growing responsibility, maturity and separation – all necessary for our inner growth. Parents of Year 3 children may find that expectations of responsibility have been upped – children are expected to remember what to take in and bring home from school, and the homework increases. Expecting your child to take on more personal responsibility is important at this age and we are doing a disservice to our children if we continue to do everything for them. Maria Montessori believed freedom and discipline went handin-hand, her expectations of what she believed your child is capable of is quite an eye-opener (emptying the dishwasher at six, preparing a simple meal at 10 and washing the car at 12, to find out more take a look online).

New for 2014 NEW Trampolining classes in Langley run by British Gymnastics coaches with specialist qualifications, for all from 3 yrs to 18+ Venue: East Berkshire College, Langley TImes: Monday and Thursday evenings, Saturday afternoons.

• More classes to come in September.

• Also available for parties on Saturday afternoons, from 3pm.

To register your interest email:

phoenixflyerstrampolineclub@gmail.com

or call 01628 778881. www.phoenixgym.co.uk Phoenix Gym is a Registered Charity No.1016375 and is a holder of the British Gymnastics GymMark award for Excellence and the Sport England Clubmark Award

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MAY/JUNE 2014

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

If reproducing this feature, please credit Jo Munro as the author.

Parenting

Rudolf Steiner’s philosophy agreed with seven-year cycles, the loss of the milk teeth, being an important psychological milestone.

And in many countries, including China, Switzerland and South Africa, the children start school at seven.

The next important change happens at about 12, when Jupiter returns to its original birthday point. This is an exciting time for children – Jupiter represents expansion and learning. At around this age children are getting a sense that there is a wider world out there. Introducing them to newspapers, along with meaningful travel experiences and spiritual ideas, will all spark off this energy.

School trips and holiday camps at this point will give the adventurous child an exciting escape from everyday life and the chance to reflect on how other people may live. Bat and Bar Mitzvah’s occur at 12 and 13, during this Jupiter return. Perfectly timed, this coming of age ceremony gives space for religious contemplation and participation into the wider Jewish community.

At the age of 14/15, Saturn is back, this time opposite its original placement.

Boundaries are being tested here as the child simultaneously wants them and rejects them.

Psychologically, a desperate search for identity is being sought. Positive messages given throughout childhood that they are loved and are perfect as they are will sustain the child through this awkward time. If a child hasn’t heard the earlier ‘applause’, this is the time that they start to indulge in risky behaviour. The young person is crying out to be taken seriously and the peer group becomes all important as they try to separate from their parents and find their place in the world. At this point, their peers can literally save or destroy them. Grief is part of this process as the adolescent grieves for the loss of the relationship they once had with their parents.

These cycles continue throughout our life, with many more thrown at us as we age and grow into ourselves. We are what we are, and if we accept ourselves and our children with all our quirks, we can hopefully successfully navigate the challenging times. After all, as my first astrology teacher told me; ‘we are all just drops of stardust’.

Jo Munro is an astrologist based in Marlow, for more info call 07909 318453 or email jomunro20@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.jomunroastrology.com.

Spotlight on Charities Children’s Hospice Week is June 13-20, a perfect time to join the fundraising campaign for Berkshire’s first children’s hospice, being built

by Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.

Windsor parents, Fiona and John Devine, set up the charity named after their son Alexander, who died, aged eight, from a brain tumour.

During the four years of Alexander’s illness they realised the desperate need for specialist children’s palliative care in Berkshire.

There are more than 600 children in the county with a life-limiting or life-threatening condition. The practicalities of travelling to the nearest hospice in Oxford or Winchester with a very sick child can be very difficult and stressful for families, who are already under immense strain. £5m is needed to build the hospice, which will be in a six-acre site at Woodlands Park, near Maidenhead. It will be a hub for the Care Team to continue working in the community, providing a range of day care activities and housing six en-suite bedrooms and two parent suites.

“Our home from home will be a place of love and laughter”, says Fiona, “a special place to make special memories. It’s about children being children, in a safe environment; a place where parents feel they can safely be with their children, a secure, safe, loving environment, where no judgements are made. Even very sick children enjoy having an exciting, stimulating place to play and laugh with their brothers, and sisters, friends and family.”

The Alexander’s Nurse becomes a familiar, trusted face for the child and their family. They can accompany them to hospital or to medical appointments and provide truly flexible care by working across and with different NHS trusts. They can offer clinical care as well as advice, help and support for the duration of the child’s illness, extending to post bereavement support.

Wear rainbow for the day for Rosie’s Rainbow fund A Maidenhead charity that supports seriously ill and disabled children and their families has launched ‘Wear Rainbow Day’ on May 16 to help boost funds.

Jo Froggatt from Downton Abbey fame and Patron of Rosie’s Rainbow Fund is urging schools, companies, shops, and restaurants to join her on the very first ‘Wear Rainbow Day’. Any school or organisation, no matter the size, can participate.

It’s all part of a campaign by Rosie’s Rainbow Fund to help raise awareness and much-needed funds for the charity. The fund runs a programme of activities to help seriously ill and disabled children and their families in hospital, school and the community.

The event has been launched as an official day in the Rosie’s Rainbow Fund Calendar to mark the date that Rosie tragically passed away on May 14.

“We wanted to do something that would be a day to officially remember Rosie. Rosie was a colourful child and loved wearing colourful tights. On the day of her funeral we held a memorial to celebrate her life at the Novello Theatre. When we left the theatre we saw a huge double Rainbow. “Wear Rainbow Day, seems a very fitting tribute to Rosie”, said Carolyn Mayling, Rosie’s Mum. Everyone can get involved; it’s easy and fun, with a small donation of just £1 in return for wearing something Rainbow. Go to www.rosiesrainbowfund.co.uk for more details or email amanda@rosiesrainbowfund.co.uk for a fundraising pack. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter for daily updates.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

illustration: Edgington, Spink & Hyne

Help to build first children’s hospice in Berkshire

The charity relies solely on the generosity and support of local communities to carry out the vital work that they do, so how about organizing a fundraising event in your local area?

Here are just a few fun ideas: • Do a sponsored skip, a pedal-push for toddlers or a walk around your school field.

• Hold a supper party and ask guests to make a donation in return for their meal • Ask your school to hold a blue and yellow day (Alexander’s favourite colours) letting children wear their choice of clothes or accessories in return for a £1 donation • Host a fundraising garden party or picnic • Clear out unwanted toys, books and games and hold a mini sale • Dedicate your school sports day as a fundraiser Add any event plans to their Facebook page and website, www.alexanderdevine.org, where you will be able to access collecting buckets, balloons and more! Contact the charity on 08450558276, or email fundraising@alexanderdevine.org To make a donation go to www.justgiving.com/adcct/donate ,call 01753 567630 or send a cheque, payable to Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, to 113 Whitby Road, Slough, SL1 3DR.

GYMTOTS! PRE-SCHOOL GYMNASTICS

FUN + SAFE + CHALLENGING Classes for Children walking to 3 years plus.

MAY/JUNE 2014

Enjoy participating with your child in our safe indoor environment with its exciting up-to-date play equpment, based within the Altwood School, Maidenhead. Every day at 10am from Wednesday to Saturday. Our programme has been developed through more than 30 years’ experience with young children and their parents. Gymtots will enable your child to gain confidence by expanding their physical ability, coordination and social skills, with your involvement and under the guidance of our experienced staff. Our advanced class for 3 to 4 years plus, without parent participation, on Wednesdays at 3pm, is more structured and builds upon the earlier classes.

Telephone

07 957 223 124 for details

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

19

01628 821145

07721 422554

Bringing all the fun of the farm to your school, Home, Private Party, Family Funday or Fete, also providing beneficial therapeutic/sensory sessions for visits to Nursing Homes or Special Needs Activities.

Call Pete to discuss your requirements, and obtain prices

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MAY/JUNE 2014

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Competitions and Offers with SPECIAL OFFER

WIN A PIECE OF BESPOKE ART

WITH RENOWNED LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER

FROM MORE THAN WORDS

This year Wendy Aldiss celebrates fifteen years as a child and family portrait photographer. In celebration of this Wendy is offering Families readers a 15% discount off any orders from a family photography session at her converted barn studio and meadows at Monkton Barn Marlow taking place before August 31st 2014.

Wendy is an multi- award winning photographer, highly acclaimed for her natural child and family portraits. See Wendy’s website for more information and to see her galleries of beautiful images : www.wendyaldiss.co.uk. Tel: 01494 523162. Email: wendy@wendyaldiss.co.uk To get 15% off quote FamiliesTVE when booking your session. Call 01494 523162 or email wendy@wendyaldiss.co.uk.*

More Than Words is the UK’s leading typographic art boutique, established by Maidenhead mum Lisa Long in 2010. Lisa and her team have created thousands of awardwinning bespoke designs for customers around the world, including celebrity clients such as Dannii Minogue and Michael McIntyre, and are regularly commissioned by Selfridges and Interior Design TV programmes.

To find out more go to www.morethanwords.uk.com.

Lisa is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a bespoke 10 x 10” box framed print in time for Father’s Day. The perfect gift for dads who have everything!

*Terms and conditions apply

For your chance to win go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions

WIN A GIANT OUTDOOR PUZZLE The Doc McStuffins Giant Foam Floor Puzzle includes nine giant puzzle pieces that are brightly coloured and extremely durable so they can be enjoyed and pieced together inside and outside.

What’s also great, is that you can combine the different pieces from Jumbo’s Giant Foam Floor Puzzle ranges (including Disney’s Planes, Jake and The Never Land Pirates, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Minnie Mouse and Fisher-Price) These appealing puzzles are suitable for children aged 3+. All the jigsaw pieces have been produced using high quality EVA to ensure they maintain their original shape to be played with again and again.

Available from June from Amazon.co.uk. RRP £14.99.

We have three of these fantastic puzzles to give away. For your chance to win go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions

Spanish and French for children with La Jolie Ronde

Bespoke Hand Drawn Portraits Contact:

MARTIN STRATTON

art@martinstratton.com

Tel: 07769 722607

Telephone: 01628 627 586

MAY/JUNE 2014

A unique structured language course established for 30 years

For more information please contact Marzena

Mobile: 07718989950 Email: info@linguas-novas.co.uk Website: www.linguas-novas.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

21

What’s On

Please email listings@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.

Star Wars Days at the Legoland Windsor Resort, Windsor May 3-5.

What the Ladybird Heard, Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe, May 4-6.

Taylor Tugs Under-5s Club,The River & Rowing Museum, May 7

ONGOING

shows are at 1pm, 2.30pm and 4pm. Tickets can be bought at the school or order over the phone on 01628 602295. www.stpeterscofe.org.

Saturday 3 to Sunday 4 May. HAUNTING EXPERIENCE at the Hell Fire Caves, Church Lane, West Wycombe, High Wycombe, HP14 3AH, 01494 533739. Ghost tours, tarot reading, reiki healing & face painting 11am to 5pm. Adult £5, Child £4, Family £15. www.hellfirecaves.co.uk Saturday 3 to Monday 5 May. THE BOGGLING BRAIN DRAIN SHOW at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 400. Suitable for 4+yrs. Shows at 11am, 12 noon, 2pm & 3.15pm (subject to minimum numbers). www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk Saturday 3 May. Kids' Club at THE REGAL PICTUREHOUSE, 2 Boroma Way, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BZ, 0871 902 5738. Join the Regal Picturehouse every Saturday for a family-only matinee of a specially chosen children's film, plus fun activities, at pocket-money prices. For accompanied children aged 3-12 years. 11am. www.picturehouses.co.uk/ Sunday 4 May. VERUCA SALT’S SQUIRREL HUNT at the Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Fact hunt, all ages, drop-in. 11am to 5pm. free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Sunday 4 to 6 May, WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD, Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street. Based on the Julia Donaldson book, for times and prices, see online. www.wycombeswan.co.uk.

Monday 5 May. FAMILY FUN DAY at the Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, Windsor. Meet the Moshi Monsters. Gates open at 12.25pm. Under-18s free, with a full fee paying adult. 01753 498445; windsor-racecourse.co.uk.

Monday 5 May. CHARLIE TALKS at the Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Learn about Charlie & the Chocolate Factory, all ages, drop-in. 11am, 1 & 3pm free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Monday 5 May. MEET THE BEEKEEPER. Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, HP14 4LA 01494 755565. Get Buzzing! Find out about beekeeping and honey production from our resident beekeepers, plus some great craft activities for the children. 11.00am - 4.00pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Tuesday 6 May. TODDLER TIME at The Regal Picturehouse, 2 Boroma Way, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BZ 0871 902 5738 - Toddler Time is especially designed to introduce children to the big screen, featuring 30-minute shows for pre-school children and their parents/carers.

11am. www.picturehouses.co.uk/

Wednesday 7. TAYLOR TUGS UNDER 5S CLUB, The River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames, RG9 1BF,01491 415600. Creative activity sessions for parents to enjoy with their children. For 18 months- 5 years.

Every Wednesday during term-time. Morning session 10am-11.30am, must book. Afternoon session 3-4pm, drop in. Tickets: £3 per child. www.rrm.co.uk Saturday 10 May. JUMBLED JIGSAW TRAIL, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL,01494 892192. Picture trail, all ages, drop-in. 11am to 5pm. Free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Saturday 10 May. HEAVEN SENT BALL in aid of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service at theHarte & Garter Hotel, High Street, Windsor, SL4 1PQ, Carol Decker of T’Pau fame joins the event for a glamorous night to help build the first children’s hospice in Berkshire, with a drinks reception, three course meal with wine, entertainment & exclusive auction lots. Price: Tickets £70 each, call 01753 567630 or email sallys@alexanderdevine.org Saturday 10 May. CAR BOOT SALE, Iver Village Junior School, High Street, Iver, Bucks, SL0 9QA 01753 653059. Car Boot Sale12-3pm. Set-up from 11am. Enquiries to Pippa Vinall on 07771932108 or pippavinall@aol.com 12-3pm Set-up from 11am. Cars. £5 Each. www.ivervillage-jun.bucks.sch.uk Saturday 10 May. THE LAUNCH OF ONCE UPON A BUS,The Jolly Gardner, Moneyrow Green, Berkshire, SL6 2. 01628 622933. From 3-5pm. A big marquee for whatever the weather and optional fancy dress. With Nisha from CBeebies Same Smile, The fabulous Teddies Music, The UK's no 1 Captain Jack Sparrow Act, Bluebelle, the vintage ice-cream and cupcake van, a live performance of the modern kid's classic "Room on the Broom"....and for the very first time in public, the brand new Story Telling Bus. www.onceuponabus.com Saturday 10 May. MAY FAYRE. White Waltham C of E Academy, Waltham Road, White Waltham, Berkshire, SL6 3SG, 01628 822533. May Fayre - fun and games for families of all ages. There is BBQ food and cake stall - there is also a licensed bar. 1.00 - 4.00 pm. Tickets: £1.00 adults entrance fee and children are free. www.whitewalthamschool.co.uk Saturday May 10. SAIL 4 FREE OPEN DAY at the Kingsmead Sailing Club, Datchet Road, Horton, near Slough.

11am-4pm. Chance to win free sailing lessons or free 2013 membership. All safety aids provided. Age 8-80. No need to book. Free. 07809610313; kingsmeadsc.org.uk.

Sunday 11 May. MAIDENHEAD FARMER’S MARKET, Grove Road Car Park, 10am-1pm. www.maidenheadfarmersmarket.org.uk

Every Wednesday and Thursday (during term-time) TOTS IN THE WOODS. at Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, Slough. Woodland fun and activities. 10am- 11am, 11.30-12.30am, 1.30-2pm. Children age 1-5, £7.50 per session. Booking essential. www.totsinthewoods.co.uk Every Monday,Thursday and second Sunday of the month. SIMPLY WALK at Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, Slough. Fitness walk. 10am- 11am. Free. www.buckscc.gov.uk Saturday 17 May to 1 September. THE BIG DINOSAUR SHOW at the The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell , RG12 7QW. 01344 354 400. The BIG Dinosaur show runs at various times throughout the day at weekends and in school holidays.

Suitable for 4+yrs. Additional fee. Shows at 11am, 12 noon, 2pm & 3.15pm (subject to minimum numbers). www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk

MAY Thursday 1 May. SPRING WILDFLOWER WALK, Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 01628 605069. Join Senior Gardener Pete on a free walk through the Gardens.

2pm. Free event (normal admission charges apply) www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Friday 2 May. BIG SCREAM CLUB at The Regal Picturehouse, 2 Boroma Way, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BZ. 0871 902 5738. www.picturehouses.co.uk Saturday May 3 to Monday May 5. STAR WARS DAYS at Legoland Windsor, Winkfield Road, Windsor. Lots of Star Wars-themed activities take over the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort. From lightsabre training to a daily costume character march, the ultimate galaxy far, far away has never felt so close. Book online via www.legoland.co.uk.

Saturday 3 May. SYLVANIAN FAMILIES & GREET at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX, 01628 520 188. Freya the Rabbit from Sylvanian Families will be making a special visit to Odds Farm between 11am and 4pm! www.oddsfarm.co.uk Saturday 3 May. CRODSCOLLOPING CHOCOLATE DECORATING at the Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Decorate a chocolate bar, 4+yrs, booking required.

11.30am, 1, 2.30 & 3.45pm. £5. www.roalddahlmuseum Saturday 3 May. THE NATIONAL FESTIVAL CIRCUS at the St Peter Church of England Primary School, Minniecroft Road, Burnham, SL1 7DE, 01628 602295. Enjoy The National Festival Circus for 3 performances with refreshments and BBQ Tickets cost £5.00 per person and

Where your little ones will blossom into independent confident learners in a wonderful environment, cared for by dedicated and qualified practitioners.

Come and meet our team and see what makes Poppies Day Nurseries different.

Bourne End Marlow Beaconsfield 01628 521522 01628 487772 01494 677116 www.poppiesdaynursery.com

22

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MAY/JUNE 2014

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

What’s On

Compiled by Barbara Meredith Event times and dates to change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake,The Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe, 13-17 May

Kidnapped, Norden Farm, Maidenhead, 21 May

Sheep Racing, Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, 26-30 May

Wednesday 14 May. RSC LIVE: HENRY IV PART I. Norden Farm, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. Having deposed the previous king, he is aware of his tenuous position and the price to be paid if he falters. Wednesday 7.00pm and Thursday 2.00pm. www.nordenfarm.org Sunday 11 May. WRITING HUT TALKS, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Roald's Routines talk, all ages, drop-in. 12noon, 1 & 2.30pm. Free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Tuesday 13 to Saturday 17 May, MATTHEW BOURNE’S SWAN LAKE, Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe. www.wycombeswan.co.uk.

Wednesday 14 May to Thursday 15 May. ROYAL WINDSOR HORSE SHOW. Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ, 020 7766 7304. Tickets: £25 for adult and £10 for children. All tickets can be purchased on RWHS. www.rwhs.co.uk Saturday 17 May. MUSEUMS AT NIGHT. Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles. Crafts, fancy dress, family activities & more. From 7pm. www.coam.org.uk.

Saturday 17 May. OOMPA LOOMPA TRAIL, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL 01494 892192. Make a rhyme, all ages, drop-in.

11am to 5pm. Free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Saturday 17 May. THE BIG DINOSAUR SHOW, The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 400. Suitable for 4+yrs. Additional fee. Shows at 11am, 12 noon, 2pm & 3.15pm (subject to minimum numbers). www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk Saturday 17 May. MARLOW MAY FAYRE. Higginson Park , Marlow, SL7 2AE 01494 421 821. Organised by Marlow & District Round Table to raise money for local charities and community groups, this fun family event will feature a wide range of stalls, rides, games, events, performances, tea tent, BBQ, real ale tent and of course, the famous traditional annual "Duck Race”. www.marlow.roundtable.co.uk/table-pages/marlow-may-fayre Saturday 17 May. NCT SPRING NEARLY NEW SALE. St. Piran's School, Gringer Hill, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 7LZ, 01628 594300. Grab yourself lots of great quality baby and toddler clothes and equipment at bargain prices, and raise money for the NCT at the same time. 1.30 - 3pm (or 1.15pm with valid NCT members card).

Entry donation of £1. www.nct.org.uk Sunday 18 May. BUSHCRAFT. Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP14 4LA , 01494 755565.

Bushcraft, why not give it a go? Join their Bushcraft expert for lessons in nature including shelter building and fire lighting 9.00am - 12.00pm and 1.00pm - 4.00pm. Tickets: £25.00 per session. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Sunday 18 May. NANCY ASTOR’S BIRTHDAY PARTY. Cliveden celebrates the birthday of one of Britain‚ most illustrious women Nancy Astor‚ Birthday Party.

Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069. 11.00am - 4.00pm.

Normal admission charges apply but no booking is required. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Sunday 18 May. WRITING HUT TALKS, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Roald's Routines talk, all ages, drop-in. 12noon, 1 & 2.30pm. Free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Sunday May 18. MAIDENHEAD DUCK DERBY AND FAMILY FUN DAY on Ray Mill Island, Boulters Lock, Maidenhead. Starting at 1pm. Stalls, treasure hunt for the children, entertainment, live music, Punch and Judy shows and of course the Duck Derby itself at 4pm. www.maidenheadlions.org.uk.

Tuesday 20 May. KIDNAPPED, Sell A Door Theatre Company, Norden Farm, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. In 1750s Scotland, Davie Balfour survives shipwreck and murder to dramatically escape to the Highlands. And so begins his fast paced adventure story, packed full of physical storytelling and imagination. Suitable for ages 6+ years. From 7.00pm. £14.00. www.nordenfarm.org Wednesday 21 May. KIDNAPPED, Sell A Door Theatre Company, Town Hall, Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe.1.30pm & 5pm, for 6+ yrs. Special Q&A session after matinee to meet the cast. www.wycombeswan.co.uk.

Wednesday 21 May, BIRDWATCHING FOR BEGINNERS, 10-12pm. Cost £2.50 Child, £4.50 Adult. £12 Family. Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, Slough. www.buckscc.gov.uk Thursday 22 May to Sunday 25 May. NT LIVE: THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME. Norden Farm, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. Based on the acclaimed novel by Mark Haddon, adapted by Simon Stephens and directed by Marianne Elliott.

From 2.00pm- 4.40pm; Tickets: £15.00. www.nordenfarm.org Saturday May 24. BURNHAM DONKEY DERBY in Burnham Park, Burnham. From 12 noon. Free entry.

Community event organised by the Rotary Club of Burnham Beeches with donkey races and rides, stalls and entertainment.

Saturday 24 May. NASTY CRAFTY KIDS, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Collage activity, 5+yrs, booking required. 12.30 & 2pm £2. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Saturday 24 May. PEPPA PIG Meet & Greet, Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, HP10 0LX, 01628 520188. Meet Peppa, all ages.

11am to 4pm. www.oddsfarm.co.uk Sunday 25 Monday 26 May. HAUNTING EXPERIENCE, Hell Fire Caves, Church Lane, West Wycombe, High Wycombe, HP14 3AH, 01494 533739.

Ghost tours, tarot reading, reiki healing & face painting 11am to 5pm. Adult £5, Child £4, Family £15. www.hellfirecaves.co.uk Sunday 25 May. OOMPA LOOMPA TRAIL, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Make a rhyme, all ages, drop-in.

11am to 5pm. free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Sunday 25 May. ADVENTURES WITH SAM, Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley on Thames, RG9 2BP, 01491 575 698. Join Sam on an adventure of a lifetime. Head on down to the farm where you will meet Heidi the Hen and Simon the sheep dog, and help solve the mystery of the missing golden egg. 11am & 2pm. Tickets £9, Family £30. www.kentontheatre.co.uk

MAY HALF TERM Monday 26 to Friday 30 May. DAILY ACTIVITIES at Norden Farm, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. 10.15am Arts & Crafts, £5. 1.15pm. Storytelling £2. Family Film 2pm, £5. 3.30pm Arts & Crafts, £5. Booking essential.

Monday 26 to Friday 30 May. THE BIG DINOSAUR SHOW. The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 400. The BIG Dinosaur show runs at various times throughout the day at weekends and in school holidays from 17 May to 1 September.

Suitable for 4+yrs. Additional fee. Shows at 11am, 12 noon, 2pm & 3.15pm (subject to minimum numbers). www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk Monday 26 to Friday 30 May. NEW SAND & WATER & PLAY SHEEP RACING Returns to Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX, 01628 520 188. A new Sand & Water Play area opens this half-term and the ever popular Sheep Racing returns too.

Free as part of the entry fee. www.oddsfarm.co.uk

Wishes and smiles all come true at a party planned just for you!

Amazing, energetic and fun entertainment for children at Birthday parties and events!

Call Debi Party Entertainer and Face Painter

07531 928075 Email:

clickityclackparties@gmail.com

Telephone: 01628 627 586

MAY/JUNE 2014

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

23

What’s On

Please email listings@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.

Toad on Tour...poop poop!, River & Rowing Museum, Henley, May 27.

The Pied Piper of Hamelin, Norden Farm, Maidenhead, May 27.

Hell Fire School of Witchcraft, Hell Fire Caves, West Wycombe, Friday 30 May.

Monday May 26 to Friday 30 May. WOODLAND WONDERS at the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. Another week of springtime fun, based at the information point, for families that want to get out and about. For more info on specific activities, look online and on-site nearer the time. 11am- 1pm. 01753 647358; www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnham.

Monday 26 May. MONSTER MAYHEM. Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL - 01494 892192 - Story & craft, 3-6yrs, booking required.

1.30 & 3pm. £3. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Monday 26 May. WILLY WONKA BOW TIES, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL - 01494 892192 - Fabric craft, 4+yrs, booking required. 10.30am & 12noon. £2. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Tuesday 27 May. AUGUSTUS GLOOP POTS, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL. 01494 892192. Clay pots, 6+yrs, booking required.

11am, 1 & 3pm. £3. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Monday 26 May. THE BOY AND HIS HORSE, stories and music for families. Norden Farm, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. Pick me four red apples, and take four golden apples for yourself. Now, jump on my back! A wise and beautiful black mare helps a Prince on a magical quest.

Suitable for age 7+ years. 11.30am and 2.00pm. Tickets: £8.50. www.nordenfarm.org Tuesdsay 27- to 31 May, EVITA, Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe. www.wycombeswan.co.uk.

Tuesday 27 May. MOTOR BAGS, The River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames, RG9 1BF, 01491 415600. Screen-print your own unique canvas bag and create a block print with images inspired by the shapes, materials and people in the Frazer Nash exhibition. Starters on the grid‚ For 7-11yrs. Please book. 2pm-4.30pm. £10 including materials. www.rrm.co.uk Tuesday 27 May. TOAD ON TOUR...POOP POOP! The River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames, RG9 1BF - 01491 415600. Paint and collage a road map of the area around Toad Hall and make card cars and mini toads that move with magnets. For 4-7yrs. Please book.

10.30am-12.30pm. Tickets: £8.50. www.rrm.co.uk

Tuesday 27 May. WILDLIFE WATCHING CRUISE, Hobbs Of Henley Boatyard, Station Road, Henley on Thames, RG9 1AZ, 01491 572 035. Join the Chilterns Conservation Board and Hobbs of Henley for a wildlife watching voyage of discovery with an expert guide to spot hidden natural treasures between Henley and Hambleden. 3pm-4.15pm.

Adult £8.75, seniors £7.25, child £5.25. www.hobbsofhenley.com Tuesday 27 May. THE PIED PIPER OF HAMELIN, Sokobauno Puppet Theatre Norden Farm, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997. 11.30am, 2.00pm and 3.30pm. £8.50. www.nordenfarm.org Wednesday 28 May. BEASTS AND BUTTERFILES, Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP14 4LA, 01494 755565. Kids can be nature detectives on this walk with our warden team 11.00am - 12.30pm. Tickets: £5.00. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Wednesday 28 May. THE RED TREE, Featherweight Theatre. Norden Farm, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997.

A bedroom full of leaves. A paper boat on stormy seas.

Dance, puppetry, playful props and an original score tell this story of fantastical landscapes and difficult feelings. Suitable for ages 7+ years. 11.30am and 2.00pm. Tickets: £8.50. www.nordenfarm.org Wednesday 28 May. HELL FIRE SCHOOL OF WITCHCRAFT, Hell Fire Caves, Church Lane, West Wycombe, High Wycombe, HP14 3AH, 01494 533739. Cast spells, banish werewolves, fly a broomstick & potion making, 5-10yrs, booking required. 11am, 12.30, 2.30 & 4pm. £7.50 www.hellfirecaves.co.uk Wednesday 28 May. MINIBEAST HUNT Langley Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, SL3 6DS. Hour session, all ages, booking essential. 1 & 3pm. £4.50 kit hire/family. www.buckscc.gov.uk Wednesday 28 May. MY PARENTS ARE OUT OF CONTROL, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192.

Interactive Session, 6+yrs, booking required. 12.30 & 2.30pm. £3. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Wednesday 28 May. SPLENDIFEROUS SWEET MACHINES, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Craft , 6+yrs, booking required. 10.30 to 11.30am. £2.50. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Wednesday 28 May. WILDLIFE DAY with RSPB, Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, HP18 0JH. 01296 653226. Wildlife activities, all ages, drop-in. 11am to 3pm. www.waddesdon.org.uk

Wednesday 28 May. MAKE IT MOVE, The River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames, RG9 1BF, 01491 415600. Find out what makes Frazer Nash cars unique and make your own balloon car. Can you design a vehicle for the future. For 7-11yrs. Please book.

10.30am-12.30pm Tickets: £8.50 www.rrm.co.uk Wednesday 28 May. TAYLOR TUGS HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS, The River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames. RG9 1BF, 01491 415600. Join Taylor Tug for lots of creative springtime fun based on our beautiful Museum objects. Make, sing and play the morning away. For 18 months - 5 years. Please book. 11am-12.30pm Tickets: £8.50. www.rrm.co.uk Wednesday 28 May. WILD WEDNESDAYS at Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069. Outdoor adventures for families, every Wednesday in the local school holidays. Themes to be confirmed. Ideal for children aged 4 11years. 11am - 3pm. Tickets: Child £2 (plus normal admission charges) No bookings required. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Thursday 29 May. BIRDS OF PREY Family Day, The River & Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley on Thames, RG9 1BF, 01491 415600. Get up close and personal with the birds from Millets Farm Falconry Centre including owls, kestrels and turkey vultures. Free with admission.

10.30am-4pm www.rrm.co.uk Thursday 29 May. FACTORY FRIGHTS at the Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Messy craft , 5+yrs, booking required. 11am, 1 & 3pm. £2.50. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Thursday 29 May. WILD ONES: GROW WILD, Westmorland Park Pavilion, off Westmorland Drive, Warfield, RG42 3QP. Get green fingered and create crazy cress sheep, sprouting seeds and funky flower pots. Come dressed for mess! Suitable for 5-11yrs. 2pm-4pm. £4, booking required. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk Thursday 29 May to Friday 30 May. TREE CLIMBING at Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA, 01628 605069. A tree top adventure in Cliveden‚ woodlands provided by The Big Tree Climbing Company. 10.30am to 5pm. Tickets: £17.50 per person for an hour session (plus normal admission charges). www.nationaltrust.org.uk Friday 30 May. THE MYSTERIOUS MISSING KOHI-NOOR at Norden Farm, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, 01628 788997.Victorian sisters Anna and Bea’s explorer aunt has disappeared leaving them in charge of the annual magic lantern extravanganza. Suitalbe for 3+. Tickets £8.50, Family £31. www.nordenfarm.org

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Cupcake Decorating Parties Making Cupcake Decoration fun for children aged between 6 and 16 • 1 demonstrated themed cupcake • 3 free design cupcakes starting with piped buttercream swirls • 1 cupcake to eat decorated by Cakin' Faerie Each guest will receive a certificate of attendance and take home 4 vanilla cupcakes that they have decorated in a presentation box.

All equipment is provided and demonstrated along with a selection of decorations and sprinkles. All that Cakin' Faerie asks is that you can provide sufficient tables and chairs for all of your guests.

10 Almond Road, Burnham, Bucks SL1 8HA

Tel: 01628 543963 or 07979 807553 Email: suzanne@readmantcs.co.uk www.facebook.com/cakinfaerie

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Go online to www.familiestveast.co.uk/whatson for more events and fun things to do with the family

What’s On

Maidenhead Farmer's Market, Maidenhead, June 8

Father's Day, Grey's Court, Henley, June 15

Hurst Horse Show and Country Fair, Hurst, 28-29 June

Friday 30 May. HELL FIRE SCHOOL OF WITCHCRAFT at the Hell Fire Caves, Church Lane, West Wycombe, High Wycombe, HP14 3AH, 01494 533739. Cast spells, banish werewolves, fly a broomstick & potion making, 5-10yrs, booking required. 11am, 12.30, 2.30 & 4pm. £7.50. www.hellfirecaves.co.uk Friday 30 May. MEET SIMON RICKERTY at the Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Meet author of Wondercrump picture book, 3+yrs. 12noon, 2 & 3.30pm. £3. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Saturday 31 May. WAFTING WONKA BARS at the Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL - 01494 892192 - Make a mobile, 5+yrs, booking required. 12.30 & 2pm. £2. www.roalddahlmuseum.org

Saturday June 14. ART ON THE STREET in Maidenhead Town Centre. 10am-5pm. Outdoor art gallery with Art on the Street LIVE! Events throughout the day.

Over a 100 artists selling their work, free activities and workshops, entertainment, and performances. Free parking in Maidenhead all day. Maidenheadartmarket.org.

Saturday June 14 and Sunday June 15. FREE ADMISSION for fathers on Father’s Day at The Savill Garden, Wick Lane, Englefield Green. 10am-6pm. BBQ and Windsor and Eton brewery with samples of beer. 01784 435 544; theroyallandscape.co.uk Sunday 15 June. MAKE DAD’S DAY, Father’s Day. Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA 01628 605069. Celebrate Fathers' Day at Cliveden by bringing your dad to Cliveden for free and treating him to free beer tasting (while stocks last!).

10.00am - 3pm. Free after normal admission charges. No booking required. All children must be accompanied by an adult. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Sunday 15 June. FATHER’S DAY at Greys Court, Rotherfield Greys, Henley on Thames, RG9 4PG, 01491 628529 - Celebrate Father's Day at Greys Court with a special free lucky-dip gift for all dads visiting on this day.

10am-5pm. Normal entry charges apply. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Tuesday 17 June – Saturday 21 June, ROYAL ASCOT week. Ascot Racecourse, High Street, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7JX, 0844 346 3000. www.ascot.co.uk Saturday 21 June. HOLY FAMILY SUMMER FETE. Holy Family Catholic School, High Street, Langley, Berkshire, SL3 8NF 01753 541442. Join the Holy Family Catholic School Summer Fete (High Street, Langley). They will have traditional games and stalls for all the family. Come along and enjoy all the fun of the fete! 12.30 - 4.00pm. www.holyfamilycatholicschool.org.uk Saturday 21 June. TEDDY BEAR PICNIC, Dinton Activity Centre, Dinton Pastures, Sandford Lane, Reading, RG10 0SU. Follow the teddy trail in the woods, followed by a story time picnic in the new adventure play park (bring your own picnic). 11am-1pm. Child £3, adults and Under 2s free. www.wokingham.gov.uk Sunday 22 June. BUSHCRAFT AND SURVIVAL DAY. Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, Slough.10-4pm at Black Pine’s Camp. Cost £65. Learn survival skills with ranger Andy. www.buckscc.gov.uk

Saturday 28 to Sunday 29 June, HURST HORSE SHOW & COUNTRY FAIR, Hurst Village Centre, School Road, Hurst, RG10 0SD. Two days of show jumping events with country crafts, stalls, tug-of-war, displays, children‚ activities, art show and much more. Free parking. 10am-5pm. www.hursthorseshow.org.uk Saturday 28 June. MACBETH, Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP14 4LA, 01494 755565. Enjoy Shakespeare's classic, Macbeth. A theatrical treat for all ages in the beautiful setting of Hughenden Manor's formal garden 7.00pm - 10.00pm. Tickets: Adult £16.00, Child £12.00. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Sunday 29 June. BUG CLUB, Dinton Activity Centre, Dinton Pastures, Sandford Lane, Reading, RG10 0SU. Join the Bug Club and enjoy a great day out discovering insects.

10am-4pm. Free event. www.wokingham.gov.uk Sunday 29 June. FILM WALK, Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, Slough. 2-3.45pm. Walk round and see where Harry Potter and other films were filmed. Child £3, Adult £5, Family £14. www.buckscc.gov.uk Sunday 29 June. ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRYSIDE RACE DAY at the Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, Windsor. Plenty of free fun activities for children of all ages to enjoy, markets, country pursuits and displays, as well as the thrilling racing action. Gates open at 12.1Opm. Under-18s free, with a full fee paying adult. 01753 498445. windsor-racecourse.co.uk.

Sunday 29 June. Little Fishes Pre School SUMMER FAIR, Furze Platt War memorial Hall, 75 Furze Platt Road, SL6 7NG. 11am-2pm. Come along and meet a favorite children's character, BBQ, bouncy castle, face painting, cake stall, tombola, water & wine stall and plenty of fun stalls for children to enjoy. Everybody welcome.

Sunday 29 June. ROCK STARS AND HEROES WALK in aid of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, dress up in your best glam rock or super hero style for a fun sponsored walk through Windsor Great Park, 5 or 10 miles routes suitable for all the family, including pushchairs and dogs on leads. Register in advance by calling 01753 567630 or email fundraising@alexanderdevine.org. Price: Entry fee is £10 for adults, £5 for children (5-12), under-5s go free, or £25 for a family of four. This includes refreshments plus your rock star guitar and glitter wigs.

Sunday 29 June. COMMUNITY PICNIC in the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. Bring along a picnic and enjoy fun craft activities andmuch more.

12noon-4pm. For more info on specific activities, look online and on-site nearer the time. 01753 647358; cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnham.

JUNE Sunday 1 June. SQUIGGLEY SQUIRRELS at the Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. RSPB wildlife info, all ages, drop-in.

11am to 3pm. Free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Thursday 5 June. EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN'S EVENING at Moor Hall, Cookham, SL6 9QH. An evening of glamour, fashion, shopping, beauty and well being to celebrate local businesses. 6-11pm. Early bird tickets £17. Go to www.exceptionalwe.eventbrite.co.uk to get tickets.

Saturday 7 June. BLUEBERRY HUNT, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Fact hunt, all ages, drop-in. 11am to 3pm. Free for museum visitors. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Sunday 8 June. GRANDPA JO’S QUILT, Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre, High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Quilt squares, 6+yrs, booking required.

12.30 & 2pm. £2. www.roalddahlmuseum.org Sunday 8 June. OPEN FARM SUNDAY, Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, Slough. 10.30am-5pm. Follow the signs from Black Park Car Park to see the animals on Rowley Farm and learn all about a working farm. FREE. www.buckscc.gov.uk Sunday 8 June. MAIDENHEAD FARMER’S MARKET, Grove Road Car Park, 10am-1pm. www.maidenheadfarmersmarket.org.uk Friday 13 June. SUMMER FAIR, Iver Village Junior School, High Street, Iver, Bucks, SL0 9QA 01753 653059. 3-6pm Iver Village Infant SchoolNormal stalls - Bric a Brac, Raffles, Tombolas, Refreshments, Cakes, BBQ etcEnquiries about hiring a stall to Pippa Vinall on 07771932108 or pippavinall@aol.com. www.ivervillage-jun.bucks.sch.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Enjoy the Great Outdoors

If you go down to the woods today...

Here in the Thames Valley we have some of the oldest woodlands in the country and newly published The Woodland Book: 101 ways to play, investigate, watch wildlife and have adventures in the woods is full of fantastic ideas on how to enjoy them.

Tips on identifying trees Identifying trees in all seasons takes a bit of practice, but if the mere mention of the subject makes you break into a cold sweat – don’t panic – there is no need. Tree identification relies on skills that we learned as toddlers. Think about the games where babies are encouraged to match colours and shapes: tree identification is just an extension of those skills.

To start the process, have a look at the whole tree. Expert birders look for something in birds that they call their ‘jizz’; something unique about the bird that helps them identify it. It may be a particularly distinctive feature – like the blue flash on the side of the Jay, or it may just be something about the way the bird behaves, a general impression, such as the way a Sparrowhawk quarters a field while hunting. Look for the ‘jizz’ in the tree you are trying to identify. What stands out about it; what is your gut instinct?

Key features of your tree Then take a closer look at specific features.

The bark: is it smooth, rough, cracked into diamonds, spiralling, silvery, peeling?

Similarly the leaf shape: are they simple, compound, palmate, needles, lobed, toothed or smooth edged? Are there any seeds, flowers or fruits to help differentiate your tree. All the time you should be flicking through your mental memory bank of shapes and patterns trying to eliminate certain possibilities and tie it all together. If the branches are bare look under the tree to see the fallen leaves along with any fruit, nut and seed remains. Sometimes there can be a confusing mix so check out the surrounding trees to work out which one the different leaves are likely to be from to narrow down your particular tree.

Often you can follow a kind of flow chart in your mind – ‘smooth bark, OK it’s not oak or either of the chestnuts, none of the conifers or willows …; have a look at the leaves, small oval compound – could be Rowan or Ash; have a look on the ground,

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there are seed keys scattered around – definitely Ash … job done!’

Below are the killer identifiers that I rely on to help me with identification. It is not comprehensive table but will help with identifying your tree from its ‘jizz’. The Field Studies Council publishes an excellent foldout, laminated chart called ‘The Tree Name Trail‘ that can be found on their website – www.field-studiescouncil.org. A good website for ID is the Woodland Trust site – www.britishtrees.com/treeguide and there are mobile phone apps and books that can help when you are in the field. The table includes mostly native trees found in woodlands and I have assumed that you can distinguish between evergreen and deciduous trees. I have included Sycamore, a non-native, as it is so common and the abundant Sweet Chestnut that has been adopted as an honorary native.

Ash Bark: smooth, silvery green, more ridged in older tree Seeds: single wing helicopters hang down in bunches known as ‘keys’, stay on tree through winter Distinctive: black buds on bare branches in winter Beech Bark: smooth, elephant grey bark, slumps round branches Fruit: triangular nuts in spiky case known as beech masts Distinctive: tight, pointed, upward curving buds in winter/early spring Birch Bark: papery, shiny peeling bark, coppery when young, silver/white older. Marked with distinctive black stripes where young

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branches have dropped Flowers: brown droopy catkins April/May Distinctive: large quantity of small twig drop around base of tree Field Maple Bark: Orangey/brown ridges.

Distinctive constrictions every 10–15cm in young tree branches.

Seeds: paired winged helicopters. Wings out to side like handlebar moustache Hawthorn (May) Flowers: white froth of blossom in May, hence common name Fruit: bright red berries in autumn Distinctive: 1–2cm long thorns on twigs Hazel Flowers: 3cm pale yellow dangling catkins early spring: February-March.

Fruit: small, hard-shelled nut.

Papery case at base. Green turning to brown early autumn.

Distinctive: Often form multiple stems like shrub rather than single trunk.

Holly Fruit: bright red berries in autumn and throughout winter in female trees Hornbeam Bark: grey and smooth with vertical ridges Flowers: Catkins May–June Seeds: large winged bunches of keys in autumn. Easily confused with beech Horse chestnut (conker) Flowers: white pyramids known as candles Fruit: distinctive inedible conker in spined green case Juniper Fruit: blue/black berries tight to the twig in autumn Larch Leaves: needles in clumps go yellow in autumn and drop – not evergreen Oak Bark: has deep chasms and ridges Fruit: acorns in autumn Distinctive: older trees are whiskery with short eruptions of twigs along big branches, often covered in moss and lichen.

Rowan (mountain ash) Bark: light grey and smooth Seeds: bunches of bright orangey/red berries in autumn Distinctive: often grow at higher altitudes or ornamentally at lower altitudes.

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Scots pine Bark: orangey/brown plates, ridged in old age Distinctive: tree shape is typically tall, branchless trunk.

Layered branches at canopy.

Sweet Chestnut Bark: brown ridges, often spiral to right up trunk.

Fruit: edible nuts in autumn, brown nuts in green spiny sea urchin like case.

Sycamore Seeds: two seeded helicopters, Wings hang down like ‘biker’ moustache.

Wild cherry Bark: bronze shiny bark which peels to reveal red underside, pocked with pores often set in lines around the trunk. Older tree cracks and flakes.

Flowers: white blossom in early spring.

Fruit: red cherries in autumn Goat willow Bark: grey with diamond shaped pits.

Flowers: short stumpy catkin or pussy willow appears in early spring before leaves.

Willows (white/crack) Bark: grey, rugged with crisscrossing ridges Flowers: less distinctive longer dangling catkins Distinctive: like damp or riverside conditions Yew Bark: reddish brown with scales, beautiful grain on underside of flakes.

Fruit: red cup-shaped berries individually on twig in early autumn Distinctive: native evergreen

Grow an oak Usually an oak tree only starts producing acorns after around 30 years.

Each year a mature oak tree can produce around 2000 acorns and it has been calculated that an acorn has a one in 10,000 chance of making it to a mature oak. If we consider that an oak tree can live to be 1000 years old that is a potential of 194 offspring per oak tree. The oak relies heavily on distribution by Jays that eat the acorns and carry them off to bury them for winter supplies. Squirrels also do the same but it seems they are much more heavy handed and few squirrel collections ever germinate as the acorns are too bashed and bruised.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

If you want to grow your own oak tree from an acorn it is very straightforward but with no guarantee of success! Here’s how to give it a go.

First go out and collect some acorns.

The acorns you chose are probably the single most important factor on your quest to grow an oak. It is best to collect them in early autumn as soon after they have fallen as possible – oak trees shed their acorns in October. They should be brown and come away from the cup easily; the ones that have landed on a soft surface have a better chance of survival so collect those if you have a choice.

If you find one that has already started shooting that is good. Check over your acorns carefully and discard any that have small holes where insects have got in or appear to have fungus on them. A good check of their viability is to put them into a bowl of water; if they float throw them away. If you need to store your acorns before planting they must be kept moist and cool, away from direct sunlight. Pedunculate Oak (common or English oak) acorns do not need any pre-treatment to help them germinate, just keep them in damp conditions and they will begin to shoot.

Take the sinkers from the above float test and put them on damp pea gravel in a bowl or suspend them above some water in a hyacinth glass and keep them indoors so you can watch the growing process. If they are not already sprouting you will soon see a root emerging from the pointed end of the acorn. If kept indoors, a shoot will then emerge which will form four or five fresh green leaves that last for the whole winter and the following summer.You could plant

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them outside in the spring or keep them indoors until the autumn when the leaves will turn brown and fall off.

Alternatively, you can pot them out right from the start: two acorns in a seed pot or a yoghurt pot with drainage holes punched in the bottom. They should be covered with about 2cm of compost. The most important thing now is water. Keep them moist and in a shady spot – outside is best – they may need a mesh cover to keep away the mice. Water from above until the seedlings emerge. Once the leaves pop up you should start to water from below by standing your pot in a tray of water so the compost can soak it up through the drainage holes. In summer you can give it a light fertiliser feed to help its growth. It can take a while for the seedling to first appear – it may even be late spring – so be patient.

Once the seedling reaches 20cm tall it is ready to fend for itself. Find a spot where a 45m tree will have space and clear away all the vegetation and roots from a metre square. Dig a hole big enough for the roots and plant to the depth it was in its pot.

Enjoy your oak tree, it could be there until your great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, great, grandchildren are around.

Taken from The Woodland Book: 101 ways to play, investigate, watch wildlife and have adventures in the woods

by Tessa Wardley (Bloomsbury, £14.99)

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere!

I’m Ed and here is my early Summer book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores.

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

For Ages 5 to 7 years Cosmic Colin: Sneezy Alien Attack by Tim Collins (Buster Books £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Colin is over the moon when he and his friend Harry set off for another adventure in Harry’s spaceship but he is not at all pleased that he has to take his little brother David with him. David is even more annoying than usual because he has a terrible cold.

When they are confronted with aliens what will they do? Could David’s coughs and sneezes become an advantage for them?

‘This book in the hilarious Cosmic Colin series is very entertaining for young readers.

They are sure to be enthralled by this super story with fantastic illustrations throughout.’

For Ages 7 years plus The Case of the Feathered Mask by Holly Webb (Stripes £5.99)

The Quirks in Circus Quirkus

by Erin Soderberg (Bloomsbury £5.99)

The Impossible Boy by Mark Griffiths (Simon and Schuster £6.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Maisie is totally fascinated by all the mysteries waiting to be solved around her in Victorian London.

Professor Tobin has rooms in her grandmother’s house and Maisie enjoys hearing stories and looking at artefacts from his travels abroad. When the professor’s rare feathered mask is stolen, Maisie has to use all her powers of detection to solve this latest mystery.

ED SAYS: ‘The Quirks are a very unusual family who bring a whole new meaning to the word quirky. Each has a unique magical power that they constantly try to hide as they really want to settle in their new town – Normal in Michigan. When the circus comes to town the children learn to juggle and fly on the trapeze. But however good their circus skills are, will they be able to keep their nosy neighbour from uncovering their secrets?

ED SAYS: ‘Things are not always as they seem. Blue Hills appears to be like so many other towns but on closer inspection the impossible is happening. When a new boy starts to entertain his schoolmates with inexplicable magic tricks, Gabby and Barney – aka Geek Inc – set out to investigate. They soon realise that the weird and mysterious goings-on could threaten the whole world and they mean to find out the truth.

‘Here is a great story that will appeal to newly confident readers who enjoy an exciting adventure. So get on the case with Maisie!’

‘This is a crazy action-packed story with superb illustrations.

The imaginative characters show how being different from others is cool!’

‘This is a fantastic page-turner that is sure to entertain boys and girls alike. Readers who enjoy a good mystery will wish they were members of Geek Inc to get in on the action.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating.You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

At Herries, ...... every child is an individual and every child is known and loved.

Come and visit us at our Open Mornings on 30th April and 25th June from 9.30 – 11.00am See our website for full details:

www.herries.org.uk Herries Preparatory School, Dean Lane, Cookham Dean, Berkshire SL6 9BD Tel: 01628 483350 Email: office@herries.org.uk

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Quality Day Care for Ages 0-5 years Open all year 8 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday • Friendly and homely environment • Experienced and qualified staff • Covering the EYFS & Montessori curriculum • Excellent & Safe outdoor play area • Free funded sessions for 2-5 year olds • Childcare Vouchers accepted • Freshly cooked meals Our childcare philosophy is to promote a warm, safe and stimulating environment for every individual child so they develop a unique curiosity for knowledge and potential for learning.

For further information please call: 01628 665621 email: oratorymdn@gmail.com

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Bumps ‘n’ Babes

have three children and when I started on my pregnancy journey I embraced it wholeheartedly. I read the books, attended antenatal classes and wrote a birth plan. I thought I had choices in where and how I gave birth.

Months later, having never seen the same midwife twice and my birth plan remaining unread at the bottom of my bag, I realised I didn’t really have a choice. A home birth was never offered to me, nor was the natural birthing unit in hospital. I didn’t have a named midwife overseeing my care so I didn’t build up the trust that is so vital between mother and midwife. I was fortunate – my babies came quickly and my hospital births were uneventful. However, many women want something different, and it is not as readily available as it might be.

In a recent survey by Birthrights and Mumsnet only half of the women said they had the birth they wanted. These mums weren’t whining about not having candles burning or music playing, they wanted the time and space to give birth the way they chose - to bring their baby into the world in a gentle, stress-free environment. Whether at home or in hospital, they wanted a midwife alongside them who had seen them through from the beginning. They didn’t want to be pushed into choices they weren’t 100% happy with.

Doula Lucy Pilkington is well aware of this problem. ‘Women need time to birth. As a doula I see women not being given enough time to go into labour naturally or being told they aren’t progressing fast enough. They end up being induced because it is hospital policy,’ she says.

‘Today induction is often “routine” rather than medically necessary.’

Some women want to avoid having overly medicalised births, such as a Caesarean section or epidural pain relief, because it often takes much longer to recover from such a delivery than having a natural birth.

Picture credit © evgenyatamanenko - Fotolia.com

Who decides how you give birth?

Midwives? Politicians? You? How much does it matter where and how it happens?

I

Dr Michel Odent, who introduced the concept of ‘home-like’ birthing rooms in hospitals and birthing pools, is particularly concerned about the use of synthetic oxytocin to induce labour. ‘Too many women give birth now on a synthetic oxytocin drip. It is the most common medical intervention in childbirth,’ he says. But with no long-term studies on its side effects, he adds: ‘We are playing with the oxytocin systems of human beings without knowing what we are doing.’

As the belief grows that the way we give birth can have a real bearing on our future health and the health of our babies, isn’t it time women really had the choice about how they give birth?

As the NHS struggles with a shortage of midwives, many women are turning to home births or independent midwives, doulas or private hospitals to get the birth they want. A home birth can give women the space and time to deliver they way they desire, with an NCT study showing that if you book a home birth you halve your chances of needing to have a Caesarean, ventouse or forceps delivery. Babies who are born at home are less likely to have infections after birth and are more likely to breastfeed successfully, with some studies saying they are more relaxed and peaceful.

Some women are hiring independent midwives - fully qualified midwives who work outside of the NHS – to oversee their care.

Some are choosing a doula, a non-medical carer who offers emotional and practical support. But all of these options cost money, and I believe that everyone should have the birth they want (in principle - we all know things can change greatly during labour) not just those who can afford it.

TINYTALK BABY & TODDLER CLASSES WINDSOR, MAIDENHEAD & SLOUGH Please contact Elaine Dennis for further information;

Tel: 07876 338925 E-mail: elained@tinytalk.co.uk Website: www.tinytalk.co.uk

EW

By Joanna Parry

In 2012 the Department of Health issued a mandate saying it wanted every woman to have a named midwife overseeing their care. I truly hope this will happen, so that each and every woman in the UK will have the birth choices she desires. Whether it’s a natural homebirth or a hospital C-section, having a choice of where and how we give birth is better for us and better for the next generation, in the short term and beyond.

N

What choices do you have in childbirth?

Music with Mummy Themed, fun music classes for children aged up to 5 years in small groups Jolly Babies – specially designed for babies under one year Jackie @ Windsor: 01344 301954 Caroline @ Ascot: 01753 850772 www.musicwithmummy.co.uk

Eva Winter Osteopath BSc (Hons), DPO • Providing safe and effective hands-on treatment for adults, children and babies • The Marlow Clinic, 1st Floor Crown House, Crown Road, Marlow, SL7 2QG

For more information T: 01494 482028 E: evaosteopathy@gmail.com W: evawinter.co.uk Registered with the General Osteopathic Council, British Osteopathic Association and Alumni for Paediatric Osteopathy

Telephone: 01628 627 586

MAY/JUNE 2014

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Mums Who Mean Business

Having blogged about food and cooking whilst living as an expat in Russia, Nelmarie Rennison turned a cake-making hobby into a successful business on her return to Maidenhead.

Open Day Friday 30 May 9.30-11.30am 2-4pm

NEW Baby Signing and Cookery Club Children from 6 weeks to 5 years 7.30am - 6.15pm with French, Music and Swimming Lessons

Who you are and where do you live?

I am Nel, aka Nelmarie Rennison, the face and baker behind The PaperCup Kitchen.

We have been living now in Maidenhead for the last two years, after relocating from Moscow, Russia. My husband works for a multi-national company and we have been living an expat life for the last 5 years.

Why did you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

I have been baking and decorating cakes for family and friends and through this, without realising, my hobby turned into a full time position and The PaperCup Kitchen turned into a business on 11 November 2012. Something that I am very pleased with.

What did you used to do?

Before this cake addiction took over I use to work in an ER. Not as a nurse but as back office/financial administrator. Although we did get a chance now and then to help out in the emergency rooms in the event of a major accident.

What inspired you to set up the business?

PaperCup started out as a food blog when we moved to Moscow. Being in a country where the language and the culture is so different, I needed to connect with people who could understand me and also share my love for food, even just virtually. Slowly but surely the baking took over and when we moved to the UK I had a fantastic opportunity to take cake-decorating classes. As they say the rest is history. It took me 36 years to find my perfect job, to find my passion and to find something that I am really good at. This is a not only a job where I can let my creativity go wild but also where I can make people happy and bring smiles to faces of all ages. I can't ask for anything better than this.

What are your plans for the future?

The PaperCup Kitchen is on a 5-year plan.

Year one came and went so quickly and it's right on track. Within five years I plan to open up my Vintage Cake and Teashop, give classes to people of all abilities (concentrating on people with special needs). Maybe cake decorating can be something to help them personally and financially. By then I hope that my online shop will be selling strong throughout the UK and I can maybe start thinking of opening up a franchise or two. Ambitious I know.... but why not!

Website: thepapercupkitchen.co.uk, tel: 07760294636

Thames Valley East

Call: 01628 627586 to advertise now

30

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MAY/JUNE 2014

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Classifieds As an artist and animal lover, Marlow-based painter and illustrator, Helen Vidler, manages to combine both of her passions in her career.

Who you are and where do you live?

My name is Helen Vidler and I am an artist who specialises in murals and portraits in pencil. I live in Marlow.

Why did you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

It is very important for me to be doing something that I can fit around my son (George). I started building my business when I went on maternity leave. My Mum looks after George twice a week, which allows me to concentrate on my art.

What did you used to do?

I used to work at Odd's Farm Park in the 'animal barn' so when they asked me to paint the mural I could create characters of the animals that are at the farm like Joseph and

Piper the Donkeys. Joseph has been at the farm since it opened about 20 years ago, so it seemed sensible to put him into the mural.

What inspired you to set up the business?

I set up this business because I wanted to combine my passion for animals and art.

George inspired me to start drawing baby portraits too.

What are your plans for the future?

I will continue to build on my business with inspiration from George. I hope to be able to move my business out of my studio in the loft and into a studio that can give me the space and light I need. I continue to build my website too.

My business is constantly growing and keeps me very busy. My website is www.helenvidler.co.uk

MM Popcorn and Hotdog Hire

Local service offering commercial popcorn and Hotdog machines to hire

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Weddings, Christenings, School fetes, Community events, Anniversaries, Celebrations, BBQ’s, Children’s Parties, Sports events and Galas with staff or machine only options available For further information please call us on

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Fun, interactive Spanish for you and your child

Having worked in banking, Terry Goss decided to become a childminder to fit in with looking after her own 2 small children. 29 years later she is still a successful childminder, and still loving her job!

Who you are and where do you live?

My name is Terry Goss, based in Flackwell Heath, Bucks Why you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

I began my Childminding business in 1985 when my children were 5 and 3, as I needed to return to work for financial reasons and could not find appropriate childcare for both of my children. Also, working from home allowed me to be with my children as opposed to being in an office, letting me be there for the school runs, sickness, school assemblies and all the other childhood happenings that I would have missed.

What did you used to do?

I worked in a bank for seven years before setting up my childminding business after a 5-year gap.

What inspired you to set up the business?

I wanted a flexible job and the good thing is that we can be flexible for parents too, particularly parents who work shifts. As we are self-employed, we can decide how the contract is written to accommodate a wide variety of parents. For example, here at Terry's Tots, we have children whose parents are teachers and we are happy to offer a Term Time only contract. We have children who attend full-time, part-time, before and after school and even one day a week.

What are your plans for the future?

I work alongside another Professional Childminder and we have between us brought the business to be a caring, loving,

Telephone: 01628 627 586

fun and educational environment for children from as young as 4 weeks till they no longer require a childminder. We continue to evolve with the everchanging EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) and aim to continue offering a wide variety of exciting experiences and life skills that hopefully the children will take with them into adulthood.

The best part of my job as a childminder is seeing a small baby grow into a happy, inquisitive and loving child who then continues onto school.

Over the past 29 years of childminding, I have been fortunate to have looked after over 100 children. Many of these children have moved on in their lives and we do not have any contact, but I have been lucky to keep in touch with some who have become good friends and even attend a wedding! I have many happy memories of my years as a childminder and have been very fortunate to look after so many lovely children. I am very privileged.

You can contact Terry by email: terrystots@hotmail.co.uk

Berkshire and South Buckinghamshire

Book your FREE taster class! ellie@babylovesspanish.co.uk

07868 711581 www.facebook.com/babylovesspanish

Candle-making parties for children and grown-ups! www.candlebyparties.co.uk

Tel: 01628 947224

HELP WANTED WORKING FROM HOME Our natural healthcare co. is expanding in Bucks and Berks.

If you'd like to work from home flexibly around your kids and/or other commitments, full-time or parttime, we'd love to hear from you!

Call Sarah today for more info

020 8133 8266

MAY/JUNE 2014

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

31

REDROOFS ON STAGE SUMMER HOLIDAY WEEKS At Redroofs Theatre School, Littlewick Green Maidenhead SL6 3QY and The Novello Theatre Sunninghill Ascot, SL5 9NE. Perform in a summer full of musicals onstage. At Maidenhead enjoy the delightful gardens and optional swimming in heated pool with end of week performance onstage.

At Ascot experience the magic of Redroofs performing in fully equipped 160 seater theatre.

Our professional and Fully trained experienced staff and directors offer a warm welcome to beginners and experienced performers ages 6-14. Wrap around care available daily.

Redroofs at Littlewick Green SL6 3QY Mon 28th July –Friday 1st August -Revolting Children Week ages 6-12 £220 Mon 4th August –Friday 8th August -Frozen week ages 7-13 £220 Mon 11th August-Friday 15th August Peter Pan –A Swashbuckling Musical ages 7-13 £220 Mon 18th August- Thursday 21st August - A Charlie Bucketful of Musicals ages 5-8 [£150.00 4 days 10-3pm daily] Tues 26th August-Saturday 30th August- Summer School for Broadway Stars 7-14 £220

Redroofs at Novello Theatre Sunninghill Ascot SL5 9NE Monday 28th July –Friday 1st August -Stars Onstage ages 7-13 £220 Mon 4th August-Friday 8th August -Revolting Children Week ages 7-13 £220 Mon 11th-Friday 15th August -Frozen Week ages 7-13 £220

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Please call: 01628 674092 • Email: info@redroofs.co.uk • www.redroofs.co.uk

v Do you frequently feel exasperated, stressed, or embarrassed by your child’s behaviour? v Do you often get irritated by your child? v Do you have to threaten and shout to get your child to cooperate? v Do you frequently argue with your partner about how to handle your child’s behaviour?

The next groups will start end of September 2014 in Windsor & Maidenhead