Families TVE March/April 2017 by Families Magazine

Thames Valley East March/April 2017 - Issue 89

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...endless ideas for families of young children. Packed with interesting features and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham

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3-5 News & Information 6 Clubs & Classes News EDUCATION 7 Education News 8 Spotlight on The Curve 9 Times Tables UNDER 5s SPECIAL 10-11 Choosing the right childcare 12 30 hours childcare – What you need to know 14 Spotlight on local nurseries MOTHERING SUNDAY 15 Mothering Sunday Gift Ideas TRAVEL 16 Tips for travelling with young children 17 How to make the most of Parent’s Evening EASTER FUN 18-19 Spring Days Out 20-21 Easter Camps & Activities 22-25 WHAT’S ON 26 COMPETITIONS PARENTING 27 Turning routine upside down 28 Interview with Joanne Harris BUMPS & BABES 29 Potty Training 30-31 SHE MEANS BUSINESS R

........From the Editors........

With January over and spring on the way, there’s plenty of reason to get outdoors and hopefully enjoy some warmer weather. So, if you need help with your plans for the Easter holidays, take a look at our great ideas for some family fun on pages 18-19. If you’re thinking about booking a summer holiday, we share with you our tips for travelling with young children and our Under-5s special on pages 10-14, is packed with information on childcare options. We also take a look at Slough’s new cultural centre, The Curve, which houses a library, museum and performance venue and is well worth a visit! Plus there’s ideas for Mother’s Day, an interview with author Joanne Harris and more! Enjoy the holidays and we’ll be back with the lowdown on Summer Camps in May.

Charity Muddy Puddle Walk Between 8th and 14th May 2017, nurseries, early years groups, families and children up and down the country are being encouraged to take part in a Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children. Organising a Muddy Puddle Walk is a great way for your little ones to explore the world around them (whilst splashing about like Peppa Pig!) and by raising money for Save the Children, you’ll help make life better for children around the world. Sign up your nursery or family now at www.MuddyPuddleWalk.org and get your free Muddy Puddle Fundraising Pack. Full of fundraising ideas and tips for great walks and activities indoors and out, the pack also includes free Peppa Pig stickers and Save the Children balloons!

www.familiesonline.co.uk T: 01628 788058 E: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editors:Anna Collins and Rachel Bailey circulation: 19,500 next issue: May/June 2017 due out: May 2, featuring: Holiday Activities & Camps copy/advertising deadline: March 23 Cover Image: istockphoto.com

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Spending time outdoors as a teenager could reduce the chances of becoming short-sighted as an adult, according to a new study. The study, by researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and Kings College London, looked at more than 3,000 people aged 65-plus. The researchers took blood samples, conducted eye examinations and interviewed participants to gauge their levels of exposure to sunlight since early adolescence. The results found that those with the highest exposure to sunlight in their teenage and young adult years were up to 30% less likely to become myopic or short-sighted. The paper’s senior author, Professor Astrid Fletcher, said: “We know spending time outdoors can protect against myopia but the reasons why are less clear. Our study showed that exposure to sunlight is likely to be the major factor due to stimulation of physiological factors associated with eye growth, rather than through its action on vitamin D production.”

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BRACKNELL NORTH (Warfield) 0808 208 5134 stagecoach.co.uk/bracknellnorth

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MARCH/APRIL 2017

WINDSOR 0845 293 7207 stagecoach.co.uk/windsor

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........News & Info........

Facebook for seven year olds is launched

Nanny Scout celebrates 2 year anniversary! Windsor agency Nanny Scout have been successfully helping families find childcare in the area for over 2 years. They now provide Wedding and Event Childcare and have worked with local hotels covering corporate and private functions. Over the past 2 years the agency has built up an amazing network of childcare providers and has achieved a high placement success rate. Owner Victoria Sutton says: ‘We would like to thank everyone for their ongoing encouragement and support. It is lovely to have returning clients and hear people recommending our service to friends and family’. Any new clients contacting Nanny Scout during March/April will receive a 10% discount on placement fees. Contact Victoria on 07863 116280 victoria@nannyscout.co.uk www.nannyscout.co.uk

Former police sergeant and e-safety guru, Henry Platten has developed a safe social media platform that young children can use. GoBubble from eCadets puts an end to unwanted friend requests, dubious content and the potential for cyber-bullying. It allows children to take advantage of the best bits of social media without any of the negative aspects. Schools sign pupils up, with parental approval, and children can safely talk to children in their own class, school, or even with children the same age in schools around the world. All posts are automatically moderated ensuring any inappropriate content is removed before going live and it has been awarded a PEGI 3 rating – the safest age rating available from the governing body (Pan European Gaming Information). Schools are already using the platform to help children collaborate on school projects, learn about new cultures, develop pen pals, teach children about safe social media use, and send parents messages via the site. The web and app version of GoBubble is available free to schools. Outside of school, parents and children can access GoBubble via the web for free or have the option of downloading the app onto their tablet, laptop or mobile device for £3.00 per year.

Learn to drive from age 5! Young driver, who offer driving lessons for youngsters aged 10-17 years in dual-control cars, with fully qualified instructors, have recently unveiled a brand new car specially designed for 5-10 year olds. Known as the Firefly, the car enables the driving experience to start at an even earlier age, findings being that younger children are far more receptive to safety messages than their older teen counterparts. The emphasis of the lessons is very much on safety research suggests that encouraging youngsters to learn over a longer period of time halves the likelihood of them having an accident when they do go on to pass their test. www.youngdriver.com

Magical Ballerina Birthday Parties for children ages 3-6+ who love to perform!

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BIRTHDAY PARTIES Find F ind us on F Facebook acebook - Red R Redroofs edroofs ed edr ooffs P Parties arties

E:: eemayling@redroofs-school.co.uk E maayling@ maylin g@rredrooffs-s s-school.co.u .ukk | T T:: 01 0162 01628 628 8 67 674092 740 4092 92 | ww w www.redroofs.co.uk/parties w ww w.red w.r w. edrroofffss.cco.uk/pa k/paartie tiies Redroofs R edroof edr ed oofs fs School Sch hool ffor or th thee P Performing erfforming orming Ar A Arts, rts, 26 B Bath ath R ath Road, oad, M Maidenhead, aidenhead, B Berkshire, erkshi kshirre, SSL6 L6 4J 4JT JT

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MARCH/APRIL 2017

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........News & Info........

Odds Farm wins ‘Farm Attraction of The Year 2017’

Leading figures call for official guidance on screen time If you’ve ever worried about the amount of time your children spend in front of smartphones, computers, consoles and TV, you’re certainly not alone. A group of 40 leading authors, educationalists and childdevelopment experts have called for official guidelines on the use of screen devices by children up to 12 to be drawn up by recognised authorities on child health and development. In a letter to The Guardian, the group, which includes author Philip Pullman, psychotherapist Susie Orbach, childcare expert Penelope Leach and the former archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, said it also wants to see the creation of a minister for children. This cabinet-level role would have the responsibility for assessing the impact of all government policies on children’s health and wellbeing. The letter also called for a kindergartenstyle education for 3 to 7-year olds, which would emphasise emotional and social development and encourage outdoor play. “If children are to develop the selfregulation and emotional resilience required to thrive in modern technological culture, they need unhurried engagement with caring adults and plenty of self-directed outdoor play, especially during their early years (0–7),” the letter reads.

Telephone: 01628 788058

The National Farm Attraction Network (NFAN), who made the announcement has over 200 farm attraction members in the UK. This prestigious award is presented to the Farm Park leading the way in terms of both innovation and quality and who provides outstanding customer service and a commitment to improving their visitor experience. Steve Vinden, Owner of Odds Farm Park said: "We are extremely proud of all our staff at Odds Farm Park in achieving this Award and would like to thank them all for their continued hard work and commitment.”

Parents believe Mandarin Chinese is the most useful nonEuropean language for kids to learn UK parents see Mandarin Chinese as the most important non-European language for their children to learn. French, Spanish and German were still the top languages of choice but a majority of parents saw value in learning Mandarin. More than half (56%) of those questioned in a Populus survey commissioned by the Mandarin Excellence Programme (MEP) felt that the language would open their children’s minds to an “exciting and dynamic” culture. 51% also thought that learning Mandarin Chinese would boost their kids’ future career prospects. Mark Herbert, of the British Council, which is backing the MEP along with the

UCL Institute Of Education, said: “With the global economy becoming more interconnected and the drive to boost exports, language skills are increasingly vital for work and life. “Mandarin Chinese is one of the languages that matter most to the UK’s future prosperity. If the UK is to remain competitive on the world stage, we need far more of our young people leaving school with a good grasp of Mandarin in order to successfully work abroad or for businesses here in the UK. Learning Mandarin is also a fascinating process that brings a valuable understanding of Chinese culture,” he added.

Safer Sleep Week 3rd-19th March Safer Sleep Week is The Lullaby Trust’s national awareness campaign targeting anyone looking after a young baby. It aims to raise awareness of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and the proven advice on how parents can reduce the risk of it occurring. SIDS claims the lives of approximately 230 babies every year in the UK. The top 3 pieces of advice for safer sleep are:

MARCH/APRIL 2017

• Place your baby on their back to sleep, never on their front or side • Keep your baby smoke free - don’t smoke during or after pregnancy and don’t let anyone smoke around your baby • Sleep your baby in their own cot/moses basket in a room with you for the first 6 months For more information visit: www.lullabytrust.org.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Clubs & Classes News........

Coworth Flexlands’ Girls chosen to sing at Wembley Arena

Coworth Flexlands’ Year 5 & 6 girls will sing on the Wembley Arena stage at this year’s Voice in A Million in March. VIAM is a promoter of school singing events raising awareness to the plight of children in care and the importance of Adoption and Fostering, both in the UK and worldwide.VIAM Events showcase some of the finest young singing talent around whilst enabling school children to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime celebration with an estimated audience of 6,000!

Artspiration Art School launch New Classes in Windsor and Bracknell

The new Windsor classes run on Mondays from 4pm to 5pm for ages 5yrs to 7.5yrs and from 5pm to 6.30pm for ages 7.5yrs to 12yrs. They take place at the Clewer Youth & Community Centre Parsonage Lane, Windsor SL4 5EN. The new Bracknell classes run on Saturdays from 11am to 12.30pm for ages 7.5yrs to 12yrs and from 12.30pm to 1.30pm for ages 5yrs to 7.5yrs. These take place at Crown Wood Community Centre, Opladen Way, Crown Wood, Bracknell RG12 0PE. Email Julie artspirationinfo@gmail.com for more information or to book.

New After School and Saturday Art Courses in Central Windsor!

Mrs Claire Glover, Director of Music at Coworth Flexlands, glows, "Taking part in Voice in a Million is one of our singing highlights and the girls should be really proud of this achievement.” www.voiceinamillion.com/schools-area www.coworthflexlands.co.uk

Busy Buttons have launched new art courses after school and on Saturdays at their Design Centre in Windsor. Choose from, Painting & Illustration, Fashion Design & Sewing, 3D Art & Sculpting, Design & Animation and Sewing & Art and Design for Performing Arts. All courses have Arts Award certification and are taught by trained professionals. Portfolio Development & one to ones are also on offer. www.busybuttons.org Busy Buttons Design Centre - Windsor CIC at 8-9 King Edward Court, Windsor, SL4 1TF 0800 101 8332 / 07952 418 212

Street and hip hop dance classes for 6-12 year olds from Perform Fresh, modern, exciting and exhilarating, Perform X dance classes are unique highenergy weekly sessions designed to boost children’s coordination, improve their concentration and give children a fun, energetic way to develop physical skills and get fit. Combining energetic games, physical improvisations and exhilarating moves, these weekly sessions are not only great fun but are also guaranteed to get young hearts beating faster. Perform X classes use original street and hip-hop music and are based around a specially designed curriculum. All class materials are produced by Perform and at the end of each term, there's a performance of a choreographed piece to a specially written track. Children aged 6-12 years old can try a FREE, no-obligation trial at a Perform X class. Nearest classes are held in Marlow and Windsor. Call 020 7255 9126 to book or visit www.perform.org.uk/x

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ON OFFER AT REDROOFS FULL TIME CO ED DAY SCHOOL Year 3-13 (Ages 7-18+) Academic Education up to GCSE & 6th Form. BTEC Level 3 Extended alongside the best Performing Arts Training.

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PART TIME SCHOOL Ages 0-18 Outstanding Saturday and After School Classes in Performing Arts, Musical Theatre, Acting, RAD Ballet, Jazz, ISTD Tap, Film Making, huge performance opportunities.

SUMMER SCHOOLS 2017 Ages 5-14+ Our hugely popular Summer Schools are now bookable online: The World's Worst Children! Redroofs School of Rock and other Mind-blowing Musicals! Matilda and other Miracle Children! A Spoonful of Musical Theatre!

GOLD TEAM Ages 6-18 Our Exceptional Training Package for Talented Children. Repertoire Style Intensive Workshop Sessions delivered by our expert team and visiting West End Professionals. Huge performance opportunities. Most recently, our Gold Team performed on a West End Stage.

REDROOFS AGENCY Ages 4-18 Representing our Talented Children and providing TV, Film and Theatre Opportunities for suitable pupils.

Step Into the Secret Garden

Easter Highlight Experience Monday 3rd - Thursday 6th April 2017 Redroofs, Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 3QY Ages 6-12+ 10-4pm daily. Wrap Around care available. Step through the wrought iron gate for a magical course inspired by the incredible setting of our very own Secret Garden at Littlewick Green. The timeless story by Frances Hodgson Burnett will be brought to life by our young actors both on stage and in our glorious gardens. Design your own Secret Garden, paint a canvas to take home, follow the robin on a treasure trail, rehearse in our studios and perform in our delightful miniature theatre for family and friends. Join us for tea on the timeless lawns after the final performance. To book any of our courses, please visit our website www.redroofs.co.uk/coursesandworkshops • emayling@redroofs-school.co.uk

01628 674092

PART-TIME CLASSES AND EASTER SCHOOL NOW BOOKING ONLINE www.redroofs.co.uk/coursesandworkshops 26 Bath Road,Maidenhead,SL6 4JT and Littlewick Green, Maidenhead SL6 3QY

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Tel 01628 674092 EMAIL emayling@redroofs-school.co.uk www.redroofs.co.uk

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........Education News........

Prime Minister Opens Eco Garden at Highfield Despite her busy schedule, Theresa May was in the local area again in January giving an assembly to school children and opening their new Eco Garden. She spoke to pupils at Highfield Preparatory School in West Road, Maidenhead, about her role and then answered questions from the girls in assembly before officially opening the garden. One pupil asked the Prime Minister how many shoes she had, to which she replied ‘not enough’. Even though Highfield Prep is a town centre school that does not have extensive grounds, the creation of the Eco Garden gives the school opportunity to make learning outside of the classroom more alive in the outdoor setting. Highfield Prep is an independent girls’ school

in Maidenhead, offering wonderful resources & fun learning for 3 to 11 year olds in a happy, secure and stimulating environment where all girls learn and develop at their own pace; allowing them to build confidence and independence. Find out more at: www.highfieldprep.org

11+ and entrance exams at Explore Learning Is your child in or approaching Year 5? Do they have the ambition of going to grammar or independent school? With 15 years of experience, Explore have developed a unique programme for 11+ and entrance exam tuition, enabling them to tailor their support to the specific exams of local schools. All children are welcome on board without a pre-test; the company want them to feel inspired to learn more through both a challenging and rewarding course. Members regularly attend two types of session: one group session designed to support exam technique, speed, accuracy, and exciting, new skills such as non-verbal and verbal reasoning; and another individualised session, mapped to their ability, to help strengthen the core foundations of maths and English. All of this takes place with the support of expert tutors in centres that are bursting with positive energy so that each child feels confident and excited for their next step. Spaces for the course get snapped up, so for more information about the 11+ and entrance exam courses, and to book a free trial for your child at one of the centres, go to: www.explorelearning.co.uk/11-plus-exams

Wednesday 22nd March 2017

Ground breaking new school puts pupils in the picture Pupils from Beech Lodge School recently watched the foundations of their new school being laid on the Stubbings Estate in Maidenhead. The children donned hard hats and high vis jackets to tour the site with the school’s three co-founders; head teacher Lucy Barnes, school proprietor Daniela Shanly and parent Emma Barklem. Beech Lodge School pupils will be contributing design ideas to the new building as part of project called ‘The Big Build’. School Proprietor, Daniela Shanly, was delighted to see work on the new school get underway: “Now we can really look forward to creating a lovely calm environment where our children can work and play. Demand for places is really high so I am glad that we will now be able to support many more children with emotional and social development needs from Berkshire and the surrounding counties.” Beech Lodge is a small attachment-focused school for children who have been failed by mainstream education and whose needs cannot be met in a traditional setting. There will be an open day in September 2017. More information can be found at: www.beechlodgeschool.co.uk

Search Begins to Find the UK’s Most Inspiring School Gardeners The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is calling on school gardeners to enter the search to find the next generation of star horticulturists, as it launches its annual competition, the RHS School Gardeners of the Year 2017. Shortlisted gardeners will be given video cameras by the RHS to produce a short video highlighting their love of gardening, which will be assessed by an expert panel of judges including horticulturist and television presenter Frances Tophill. To enter the competition, schools should visit the RHS Campaign for School Gardening website at: www.rhs.org.uk/schoolgardening Telephone: 01628 788058

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Education........

‘THE CURVE’ SLOUGH – WHAT’S INSIDE THIS ICONIC NEW BUILDING? A building not to be missed, The Curve, Slough’s new iconic library and cultural centre really stands out. The impressive 90 metre long building opened at the end of 2016. Anna from Families spoke to Curve Development Manager, Jackie Gray, and Library Service Lead, Allan Costello. What facilities are housed at The Curve? The building houses a spacious library, café, Slough museum, a performance venue, community learning spaces for a full range of courses, computer suites, exhibition space for photography and local art as well as The Register Office, which also includes a wedding room. What has been the initial feedback to The Curve in the local community? Residents of Slough have been very positive about the building, and the services we have been delivering. We’re working hard on planning our events and programme for 2017. What does the Curve offer parents and children generally? We hold regular events and activities for children and families, which include music time, story and craft sessions and Lego build sessions. During the

school holidays we often have visits from local storytellers and offer art sessions with local illustrators.Venue @ The Curve offers parents and children a space to enjoy a show and Gallery @ The Curve gives you the opportunity to view work from local artists. Families can learn and grow together through our family learning courses. The sessions focus on helping parents explore how they can help children learn. Parents can also improve skills in maths, English, ICT, as well as language skills for those whose first language is not English. The Curve also houses an adult changing space for those who cannot use standard accessible toilets. The room has more space than a standard accessible toilet and the right equipment, including a height adjustable changing bench and a hoist. Do you have any specific shows / exhibitions / children’s sessions that parents should be marking in their diaries? We have an exciting interactive Pop up Planetarium coming in on Saturday 11th March where you’ll be able to experience outer space like never before. We also have one-man storyteller John Kirk coming to perform Rudyard Kipling’s Just So Stories on Tuesday 30th May. Tickets are available at www.thecurveslough.com Definitely keep an eye out for our regular events too! We have music and story time four times a week. DUPLO runs every Wednesday from 11.30am12.30pm for under 5s and LEGO every Thursday from 4-5pm for over 5s. Saturday Curve Club runs every Saturday from 11.30am-1pm and is filled with activities - from making your own superhero and making your very own book ‘All About Me’ to LEGO! Check out our events calendar at slough.spydus.co.uk/events or follow us on social media - @SloughLibraries on Twitter and @TheSloughCurve on Facebook. Check out www.thecurveslough.com and www.facebook.com/thesloughcurve for the latest range of entertainment. An Independent Preparatory School & Nursery for boys aged 3 to 7 and girls 3-11 years

All Adds

UP Discover how.

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MARCH/APRIL 2017

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........Education........

HOW TO TEACH YOUR KIDS THEIR TIMES TABLES…EASILY

Hands up who got their iPhone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with maths and, in particular, times tables, is vital for children if they are to succeed at school.

“Discovering new ways of learning can make it fun for both of you”

elping your little ones at home and doing some extra work to ensure they feel confident in their learning can almost be as important as what they do in the classroom. It can, however, be tricky to navigate the teaching journey when you’re not actually a teacher. The thing that can really turn children off learning their times tables is the practise it will take. Mixing up the way they spend their time practising is important for sparking their interest and holding their attention. Here are some top tips to help you. What should they know? How and what children learn in primary school sets them up for success in secondary school. If the foundations are in place for them to be able to work out an equation like 3x6=18 without using a calculator, then they will find it easier when it comes to tackling harder arithmetic. The education curriculum changes, but at the moment, children are required to know 12x12 by the age of nine.

How can you help them know it? Buy posters of times tables or make your own; you can then stick them up throughout the house. On the wall opposite the loo, or under a magnet on the fridge, so that they are taking it in without even realising it.You can even tape it to the ceiling above their bed so that they have something to talk about with you when you’re snuggling down, instead of a bed-time story. Start with the twos Adding two to a previous number is something most children will find achievable in primary school and this sets up a pattern for learning about the other times tables. The 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 pattern has an easy rhythm to help children remember it. Apply it to real life If times tables is something your children can apply to daily life, they will show much more of an interest. Instead of testing what they know, be playful about it when you’re at the supermarket and they’re helping you with the

shopping (it can happen sometimes!). If you’re buying loose fruit and veg, ask them if they know what the price would be if you bought three instead of two. Find out what works best for your child Like anything with children, once you discover what works best for them – stick to it. If your child learns best using visual aids then go down that route. If, on the other hand, listening and chanting helps them learn, then explore the different types of apps available on the iPad or computer and try downloading some of them. It may be a good idea to keep these activities supervised so that if your child does make a mistake and comes up with a wrong answer, you are on hand to explain where they may have gone wrong and encourage them to try again. Pick out the patterns Come on, admit it; everyone has a favourite times table. It’s probably your favourite because you find it the easiest to remember or you like the pattern. Picking up on things like this will make it easier for your little ones to learn. The 9 times table has one of the easiest patterns to remember because, whilst the tens go up each time, the other number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90. Don’t bring your own feelings into it Teaching methods have changed a lot since us parents were learning our times tables.Your children are probably learning in a completely different way now so chances are that you may have to brush up on your arithmetic too. Ordering yourself something like Maths for Mums and Dads could help if you are feeling outside of your comfort zone when you’re topping up the teaching at home. Discovering new ways of learning can make it fun for both of you. Build their confidence There is more to maths than arithmetic and it’s important that your little ones don’t lose interest in maths as a subject because it feels too difficult or seems too time consuming. Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as possible. Encourage your children and praise them for trying when they do. Show them how far they have come since last week or last month and this should spur them on to keep improving.

E: moon_tuition@yahoo.com M: 07584 129188

Telephone: 01628 788058

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Under 5’s Special........

IS CHOOSING THE RIGHT CHILDCARE MAKING YOUR HEAD SPIN? By Hannah Hunter

mirror the older children’s school day. These settings are often the choice of families who intend to send their children to the school afterwards. Some, such as Upton House, may have a prenursery, and many will offer lessons that other settings do not provide: “Upton House Nursery provides a wonderful, nurturing environment within a whole school setting in which children learn, discover and play. An early years setting for 2 to 4 year olds with highly qualified and experienced practitioners where specialist teachers enjoy sharing their skills in subjects such as Mandarin, French, ballet and music.” Rhian Thornton, Headmistress, Upton House Montessori and Steiner nurseries These nurseries are based on two different educational philosophies - Montessori is the original child-centered learning, developing an individual child’s independence and skills. Some, such as Little Graduates in Maidenhead, will offer care from 6 months; others like Windsor Montessori will be from age 2 and up. “Montessori education seeks to nurture the

natural development of the child and to provide the opportunity for the child to satisfy their inner needs, through exploration, independence and perseverance.” Menik Ellawala, Windsor Montessori Focusing on creative play, Steiner schools provide a creative environment to foster joy in learning through play, rather than a structured curriculum – these nurseries will have usually opted out of following the EYFS. Local Authority Maintained Nursery or Preschool Your local authority determines the admissions policy for these schools, though you apply for a place directly to the nursery. Places are in high demand as this type of nursery is often the cheapest option. Some, like Maidenhead Nursery, cater for 2-4 year olds only, and offer mostly just morning or afternoon sessions (though limited sessions from 9am-3pm are available). Others will offer similar provision to a private nursery – i.e. taking children from 0-5, and from 7.45am6pm, such as Park House Nursery in Cookham. As with the nurseries attached to private schools, those attached to schools such as Wessex Primary in Maidenhead, usually accept children the term after their 3rd birthday and some have the option for children to stay for the full school day. They can be a good way of preparing children for school as most follow the Early Years Curriculum, and there’s the opportunity to make friends with others likely to secure a place at the attached school afterwards. They are also an obvious choice if you have an older sibling at the school.

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

There seems to be a bewildering array of options out there for families when looking for nursery or preschool places. Should you go for a day nursery, or preschool? What are the differences between private and Local Authority maintained nurseries?

t’s a tricky balance trying to find somewhere that can provide the hours you need, is close to your work or home, and is right for your child in terms of ethos and provision. Here we look at the different types of nursery that are available, and try to tease out the main differences between each to help you decide which is best for your family.

Private Nurseries There is a lot of variation in private nursery settings, including nurseries attached to private schools, as well as Montessori and Steiner nurseries. A conventional private day nursery will take children from birth to starting school, and often will have flexible hours. Children are grouped according to their age and stage of development, and will follow the Government’s Early Years Curriculum, which includes both indoor and outdoor provision. Some will be small independent settings, others part of bigger chains. Many nurseries attached to private schools, like Highfield Prep or Dair House, take children from 3 and up, and tend to offer hours that

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Preschool playgroups Preschool playgroups are usually morning or afternoon sessions only, and are often attached to a school or church. Many grew from playgroups into preschools, with the focus largely for children to learn through play. The best way to find out what’s available is to look at the local authority directory such as this one: http://directory.rbwm.gov.uk/kb5/rbwm/directorymobile/home.page for a list of the preschool provision available in the area. The National Day Nurseries association also has good advice on what to look for in a nursery and how to choose between them: www.ndna.org.uk

The EYFS explained The EYFS framework document can seem daunting, but it’s there to ensure that all children receive a suitable level of care. It sets out the legal requirements that keep your child safe and promote their welfare. This includes: l Basic checks, such as staff security checks l Setting the number of children each member of staff can look after l Ensuring the facilities and equipment are safe and suitable l Checking the quality of the environment, e.g. recommending access to outdoor space It also covers the seven areas of learning and development. These are: l communication and language l physical development l personal, social and emotional development l literacy l mathematics l understanding the world l expressive arts and design The activities they will do at nursery, to support their learning and development will be unique to your child’s needs. They will learn by playing and exploring, being active, and through creative and critical thinking which takes place both indoors and outside. There is a requirement for ‘continuous provision’, which in layman’s terms means that there needs to be high quality resources and activities available all of the time, so your child can learn through play in lots of different ways.

Telephone: 01628 788058

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Under 5’s Special........

ARE YOU READY FOR 30 HOURS OF FREE CHILDCARE? Free childcare provision for 3 to 4 year olds to double in September

A fun introduction to ballet for 2-4 year olds Register online at www.twinkletotsdance.com Classes in Sunningdale,Windsor, Warfield, Burnham and Bracknell RAD ballet grades from Age 5+ Why not try a themed birthday party for your son or daughter!

t the moment parents in England are entitled to the equivalent of 15 hours of childcare per week for 3 and 4-year olds. Depending on parental income, some 2-year olds also qualify. From September this provision is being doubled to the equivalent of 30 hours of free childcare per week Do you qualify for the free childcare? The 30 hours of free childcare are only available to parents who work the equivalent of two days (more than 16 hours) per week and who earn less than £100,000. It is only available to families living in England and your child must be aged 3 or 4 when the scheme starts. The 30 hours provision does not apply to parents claiming for 2 year olds or those working less than 16 hours per week, although it looks like the current provision 0f 15 hours’ free childcare will still apply. When and where does it start? The scheme is currently being piloted in eight local authority areas - Wigan, Staffordshire, Swindon, Portsmouth, Northumberland, York, Newham and Hertfordshire. It is due to be launched across the rest of England in September 2017. What else do you need to know? It’s important to understand that the 30 free hours are only provided for 38 weeks of the year, not all 52. This is broadly equivalent to school term times and it works out to a total of 1,140 free hours per year (compared to 570 hours currently). The Government is encouraging childcare providers to offer the entitlement flexibly and extend the 1,140 hours over the whole year if possible. This would mean you would receive less than 30 hours of free childcare per week. While nurseries cannot charge for the 30 hours, some may start charging for ‘extras’ such as meals that they had previously provided for free. Funding issues As well as the prospect of extra charges, some nurseries may not be able to offer the additional hours at all, as many childcare providers fear they will struggle to provide the extra hours of free care without additional funding from the Government. Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of charity the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) told The Yorkshire Post: “Funding is not really adequate to deliver high quality care and providers are making less. Costs are increasing but the amount that childcare providers receive has stayed the same.” Writing in The Guardian, Neil Leitch, Chief Executive of the Pre-school Learning Alliance, said: “The simple fact is that the 30-hour offer can only work if government funding actually covers the costs of delivering early-years places, something that the PLA’s Fair Future Funding campaign is calling on the government to ensure.” Other changes coming in 2017 There are a number of other changes being introduced in 2017. It was confirmed in the Autumn Statement that the National Living Wage would rise in April from £7.20 to £7.50 per hour. There have also been some changes to benefits. From April 2017 support provided through Child Tax Credit and Universal Credit will be limited to 2 children. This means that any subsequent children born after this date will not be eligible for further support

We are a super-friendly Ofsted registered day nursery providing high quality childcare for babies from three-months-old to children up to the age of ﬁve set within the bright, modern surroundings of Windsor Leisure Centre.

Open for 51 weeks a year! To ﬁnd out more about our excellent new childcare facility and meet our team: Call: 01753 855543 • Email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk Visit: www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MARCH/APRIL 2017

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

W M S

WINDSOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL Established in 1980

Where children are motivated to learn independently

A UNIQUE, AUTHENTIC MONTESSORI EDUCATION w THROUGH THE SCHOOL & NURSERY

WINDSOR o MONTESSORI SCHOOL

WINDSOR MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

Recent Ofsted inspection: OUTSTANDING in all areas HOME PARK, ROMNEY LOCK ROAD, WINDSOR SL4 6HX

01753 868399

NO 4 DATCHET ROAD (OPPOSITE THE WINDSOR FARM SHOP)

OLD WINDSOR SL4 2RQ

Providing care and education within a loving nurturing environment.

01753 830525 E

• 2 years to 9 years. • 3 year nursery funded children accepted. • We also welcome home school learners.

www.windsormontessorischool.co.uk

• 6 months to 6 years. • Baby and toddler parent sessions to include four free settling in sessions, prior to start. www.windsormontessorihouseofchildren.co.uk

Out of school hours: 01344 844592 • E: menik@windsor-montessori.com

Telephone: 01628 788058

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Under 5’s Special........

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL NURSERIES

• We will teach your child to swim • Pre-school children will participate in Forest School activities • We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum • We are competitively priced and accept all childcare vouchers • We have free on-site parking • We offer a free family complimentary health club membership for all full-time children

Nuffield Health Day Nursery - Stoke Poges

Wexham Street, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire, SL3 6NB

Tel: 01753 663996

Email: SouthBucks.Nursery@nuffieldhealth.com

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Little Godstowe,The Nursery “Little Godstowe” is a termly nursery for boys and girls, aged three to four years old. Based in the grounds of Godstowe Preparatory School in High Wycombe, the nursery offers a happy, stimulating and secure environment for your child to develop socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. The nursery has been specially designed to meet the needs of our youngest pupils. The rooms are light and spacious, with resources and toys for every stage of development. Free play is encouraged in the home corner and sandpits, and spectacular art projects are completed each term. Children also enjoy structured activities that help prepare them for the move to “big school”. As well as a complete refurbishment inside, which took place last summer, the nursery has recently welcomed brand new play outside areas, including an astro-turf with a “racetrack” for cycling around. If you would like to visit Little Godstowe, please contact 01494 429006 or email registrar@godstowe.org Windsor Montessori School Windsor Montessori School was founded as a pre-school in 1980 to foster a love of learning and to help prepare children to be self-learners and independent thinkers. These days the school has a nursery too and they accept children from 6 months at the Windsor Montessori House of Children and from 2 years at the Windsor Montessori School. The school’s fundamental beliefs are that: each child is unique with a natural curiosity and love for knowledge; the aim of education is to aid the natural process of development within each individual in a holistic way; the role of the teacher is to support children to be independent learners to develop respect for self and others and to become caring, socially responsible citizens of their community and of the world. The school has provided authentic Montessori education for over 30 years for Early Years and, more recently, for Elementary and Flexi / Home Schoolers. In July 2016 Windsor Montessori was awarded Ofsted Outstanding in all aspects.The Ofsted report commented ‘The superb range of accessible resources and equipment offers a highly stimulating environment for children to learn and build on their rapidly developing skills’ and ‘Staff provide an exceptional range of high-quality learning experiences for children’. For Early Years, Pre-School and Primary Contact: menik.ellawala@windsor-montessori.com or 01344 844592. For Elementary contact: ann@windsormontessorischool.co.uk or 07834 858583 Life in the Early Years at Upton House School By Mrs Sue Bish, Head of Early Years Foundation stage. At Upton we offer a stimulating and encouraging environment in which the children can develop their confidence and self-esteem. Whilst we are concerned with nurturing the children, they themselves have been enjoying a wonderful start to the New Year with explorations about growth and gardening. The younger children in the Pre-Nursery have been exploring and learning about herbs and have developed an herb garden which provoked some fascinating comments and lots of close observation. We are looking forward to the spring and to seeing how all our preparations bear fruit. 01753 862610; info@uptonhouse.org.uk; www.uptonhouse.org Children of The World Montessori School are a well-resourced school that focuses on education and play for 2 to 5 year olds within a caring and happy environment. The children select appropriate activities for themselves, which develops their independence, confidence and self-discipline. This freedom of choice, enables them to learn quickly through self-motivation. The children also work one-to-one with their key worker learning not only the Montessori materials but their phonic sounds, reading, writing and maths work. Babies and toddlers are introduced to the Montessori classroom and parents learn about Montessori in the home and Positive Discipline at the Baby, Toddler and Parent Classes from 6 months to 3 years. Cheryl Clay and Alexis Hall are both Montessori trained teachers who own, manage and teach within the school along with other Montessori trained teachers. call: 01753 833771 email: mail@cotwmontessori.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2017

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........Mothering Sunday........

MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS YOUR MUM WILL LOVE! Don’t forget Mother’s Day on March 26th this year. Here at Families we’ve put together our suggestions for the perfect gift to spoil your mum. Jewellery she’ll treasure Looking for the perfect gift for Mother’s Day? Let Mum know how much you care with a personalised piece of jewellery from the Dinky Fingerprint Company. Capture special moments to create memories you can touch forever. The Dinky Fingerprint range of personalised jewellery and gifts has everything from bracelets, necklaces and individual charms to cufflinks, bookmarks and key rings. Have a special message engraved, turn a treasured child’s drawing into a perfect gift or their tiny hand prints into a lasting keepsake. To see the full range of personalised hand, foot and fingerprint jewellery, or to order online visit www.dinkyfingerprintjewellery.co.uk or call 01628 623386 to make an appointment sales@dinkyfingerprint.co.uk

A trip to the theatre Why not treat your mum to an afternoon (or evening) at the theatre. The Theatre Royal in Windsor has a great line up for March and April and throughout the year. For an early celebration (7th-11th March), enjoy some quality family time watching Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, starring X Factor winner Joe McElderry. Or, if she really needs spoiling, show her how much you care with one of their theatre packages – choose from a hotel break or a pre-theatre dinner plus tickets to a performance.Visit www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk or call 01753 853888 for more information and to book.

For the fashion conscious yet practical mum Surprise your mum with a chic, over-sized, eco-friendly bag designed and made in Cornwall by a creative duo of working mums who go by the name of Rocke & Nutter. Handmade from up-cycled sails, each bag also has a contemporary flash of hi-vis jacket and the handles are made from up-cycled leather horse reins. www.rockeandnutter.com

Capture those precious memories with newborn photography Contemporary images that mum will love, to create memories, that last a lifetime To ensure the memories of your babies tiny features are captured forever, book a newborn photo shoot with Kate McNeil Photography. Kate is a qualified newborn and baby photographer based in Marlow, and specialises in newborn photography (age 5-12 days old), but also does developmental photo shoots for sitters and babies learning to stand. Trained at the Newborn Photography School as part of the Guild of Photographers, Kate has a portfolio of beautiful images. www.katemcneilphotography.co.uk www.facebook.com/katemcneilphotography - bookings can be taken after your 20 week scan.

A family keepsake Catherine from Sweet Glitter Creations makes beautiful family keepsakes. Her family trees are the perfect bespoke Mother's Day gift which will be treasured for years to come. Each one is unique and made to order, whether you are a couple, or a family of 25 with a dog, she will create something beautiful for you. If you like you will be able to choose your frame, tree design and colour scheme. Contact: Info@glittersweetcreations.com or call 07752 545501

Sweet treats Started in April 2016 The Funky Cookie Company bake flavoured sugar cookies from their own recipe and hand decorate them with royal icing to order. If your mum has a sweet tooth, they could be the perfect Mother’s Day treat! Or, if you think she might like to have a go herself, why not book her a place on one of their cookie decorating workshops & classes. Funky Cookie offer everything from seasonal cookies to bespoke cookies as gifts or party favours. They also bake for birthdays, christenings, baby showers and more as well as offering children’s cookie decorating parties and girls’ nights in. Contact Debbie on: 07979 882 522 thefunkycookiecompany@yahoo.com or visit www.thefunkycookiecompany.com

MADE TO ORDER SUGAR COOKIES DECORATED WITH ROYAL ICING CELEBRATE WITH A PLATTER OF COOKIES FOR YOUR PARTY, INDIVIDUALLY WRAPPED AS A FAVOUR OR A GIFT HAVE A GO AT DECORATING YOUR OWN COOKIES WITH OUR GIRLS’ NIGHT IN AND CHILDREN’S PARTY PACKAGES OR BOOK ONE OF OUR COOKIE DECORATING WORKSHOPS CONTACT DEBBIE - 07979 882522 - THEFUNKYCOOKIECOMPANY@YAHOO.COM - WWW.THEFUNKYCOOKIECOMPANY.COM

Telephone: 01628 788058

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Travel........

TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH YOUNG CHILDREN Thinking about booking a holiday but not sure you can face packing for the whole family, let alone keeping the kids entertained on the journey? Rachel Bailey shares some of her tips for holidaying with young children.

rowing up, my dad worked for British Airways so my sister and I were very privileged and often holidayed abroad, though we didn’t always appreciate flying out to visit yet another friend or relative, when we’d much rather have gone to Disneyland! However, it did leave me with the travel bug. Long after the discounted flights stopped, I’ve done my fair share of backpacking and love travelling to far flung places, exploring other parts of the world and experiencing different cultures. Since having children, finances and logistics mean our holidays have now inevitably taken a very different turn, but I’m determined that when we can, we will travel with our children, whether that means long car journeys in this country or the odd plane journey. Travelling with young children though is a whole different ball game! Here’s what I’ve learnt: Lower your expectations Accept that it might not be much of a holiday for you. Sometimes it can feel as though it’s no different to being at home, especially since you’ve had to pack up your whole house to take with you! Even worse, the routine has gone out of the window and the kids are wildly over excited.You might not get much rest, but the joy you’ll see on their faces will make it worthwhile, so look at it as an opportunity to spend time together as a family building memories. If you really crave a bit of me time, book somewhere with a kid’s club to give yourself a few hours off! Remember that if you get to watch a film yourself on the flight, that’s a bonus! Don’t be afraid to fly before they turn two Babies under two sit on your lap on the plane so they fly for free, though if you’re flying long distance the taxes can add up. Depending on the length of the flight you can also reserve the bulk head seats and the cabin crew will provide cots or chairs for older toddlers to sleep in. Personally I found flying with my twins at 6 months old much easier than when they neared two. At that age they couldn’t get out of their seats and they did even sleep (a little). Just be aware though that they have to be taken out of the cots whenever there’s turbulence, so that can be disruptive! Once they’re a bit older, a long car journey

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

“Remember that if you get to watch a film yourself on the flight, that’s a bonus!” can seem worse than a flight. In our house, the novelty of travelling by plane generates much excitement. Pack Snacks Never undertake any journey without snacks! These don’t have to be unhealthy. I once found that flying solo with my eldest aged 2, we were wedged in a window seat (surprisingly helpful because he didn’t try to get out, thankfully!) and eating an apple kept him entertained for a good proportion of the 4hour flight! Obviously it’s not guaranteed, my youngest saw through this immediately! It can also be a good idea to pack some of their favourite snacks for emergencies once you arrive too. Embrace the fact that your hand luggage will consist solely of distraction techniques Forget carrying a book for you! Pack lego, colouring books and pencils, favourite toys, card games, a couple of small, new items that they haven’t seen before and might peak their interest. I’ve even been known to pack play dough for a plane journey! If all else fails, make sure the Ipad is fully charged. This has been my saving grace on several occasions. Airports can be well geared up for families Heathrow airport has had its own Mr Men character created to help amuse young children while they wait for their flights. There are even Mr Adventure stay and play areas to be found in terminals 2, 4 and 5 whilst terminal 3 has a family lounge. Likewise, Gatwick airport has kids zones in both its North and South terminals. I always found that arriving at Gatwick filled me with dread as there was such a long walk to passport control and whilst you can take your buggy to the gate when you board, there was no option to get it back until baggage claim. Thankfully now though they provide buggies you can use once you get off the plane. Check ahead what’s available at your destination Most family friendly resorts/hotels will provide baby monitors, travel cots, sterilisers

and black out blinds for free during your stay, which will save you packing all those bulky items. If you’re flying are you hiring a car? Will they provide a car seat so you don’t have to take one? (assuming you don’t need it to get to and from the airport at this end). Stay on UK time If it’s only a small time difference, consider staying on UK time. With family in Greece we’ve spent a fair bit of time there and as it’s only a 2 hour time difference, I’ve always found it much easier to stay on UK time. It means you might get less of an evening but there’s always the hope they’ll stay in bed a bit later in the mornings too! Leave extra time Always allow yourself plenty of extra time to get to the airport. It’s much more fun exploring the airport (and making use of those soft play areas), than it is starting your holiday stressed because you’ve been stuck in traffic. Hire audio books from the library With good friends living at the other end of the country, I’ve found that long car journeys have passed far less painfully if we have a good stash of audio books to listen to. If you take the kids to the library with you, they can pick out some that they might like to listen to. The first time I did this with my son, he was so excited he couldn’t wait for the journey to begin! Get older kids involved in the planning Prepare them for the journey and talk about where you are going and what they might like to do once you get there. Encourage them to pack a few things for the journey themselves (although you might want to have the final say!) Make the most of off peak holidays while you can Once children start school you have years of very expensive holidays to look forward to. Make the most of grabbing a cheaper break while you still can and travelling outside of school holidays means places are a lot less crowded too!

MARCH/APRIL 2017

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........Parents’ Evening........

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF PARENTS’ EVENING EXPERT ADVICE FROM EXPLORE LEARNING

Parents’ evenings – one of the most important events in parents’ lives – where they sit down with those people who know their children almost as well as they do – and find out how they’re doing at school.

ut, with only ten minutes or so to formally review all those hours of learning how can you possibly fit it all in? And how do you remember everything you’ve talked about when you get home later that evening? Carey Ann Dodah, Director of Curriculum Strategy at tuition provider, Explore Learning has some top tips on how to maximise your allotted time. She says: “Parents’ events are such precious moments where you want to understand everything, cherish all the positive bits while helping your children learn from constructive feedback. Remember, your child’s teacher will always be available throughout the year to discuss any concerns or questions you have – you just have to ask and they will guide you. They may direct you to some information evenings coming up, guidance on the school’s website or book a slot in with you at a mutually suitable time. If you have a long list of questions you want to ask, parents’ evening may not be the best time”. 1. Come to parents’ evening with no more than three questions Do come with some set questions. Sometimes parents’ evening creeps up on us and we find ourselves sitting blankly in front of the teacher not sure what to ask and you know that half an hour later you’ll be kicking yourself for not discussing that important thing! So it’s a good idea to do a little preparation. 2. Chat to your child about school and their goals before parents’ evening Your child can give you the best insight into what’s happening in the classroom. Is there anything that they are concerned about? What are they really enjoying? What do they think their next goals are? Make some notes on what your child said. It’s really nice to see if these align with the feedback from the teacher and there may be areas that you can fill each other in on. 3. Look for evidence of progress Progress is measured in different ways across schools now, following recent curriculum changes and so the way your school is demonstrating progress may have changed. Ask about this if it is not clear and find out what the next steps are for your child to reach the next targets. 4. Look through your child’s workbooks The best way to see evidence of progress is to look through your children’s books and compare work from the beginning of term to now. Read the teacher’s comments and see if there are any themes e.g. are they often running out of time, are there areas that they clearly don’t understand. Note down anything you want to look at with your child at home. If you don’t have time on the evening ask to take the books home overnight so you can review them properly. 5. Remember your child’s teacher is on your team It can be really hard to receive bad feedback and your child’s teacher will not enjoy giving it. They really do want the best for your child just as you do. If they have mentioned problems with behaviour or concentration, for example, try to see this as a positive opportunity to make a change with your child with another person who’s sharing your child’s upbringing with you. A parent/teacher combined approach can be such a powerful way to make a change that could be great for everyone.

Telephone: 01628 788058

Explore Learning has 124 centres across the UK, providing English and maths tuition to children aged five to 14.

Themes inc Matilda, Frozen, Annie, Cinderella, and more!

emayling@redroofs-school.co.uk | T: 01628 674092 | www.redroofs.co.uk/parties Redroofs School for the Performing Arts, 26 Bath Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4JT

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Spring Days Out........

EASTER HOLIDAY FUN

Spring is in the air and soon there will be egg-hunts everywhere* to keep the children happy! We’ve highlighted some of the best ideas we’ve seen in and around the local area and even up to London to give the family a different treat.

tractor & trailer rides* for a fun tour of the farm! Combined with the giant indoor play barn and acres more adventure outside including the log play areas, go-karts, sand & water play and crazy golf, there’s so much to do! For full details, visitors should call 01628 520188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk *(April-October, Weather Permitting).

*visit: www.easter.cadbury.co.uk to find a Cadbury Easter Egg hunt at a National Trust property near you

Jump In! Family Arts Festival at Norden Farm The Jump In! Family Arts Festival is the annual Easter holiday celebration held at Norden Farm, running for two weeks of the Easter holiday. Highlights of the first week include Wow! Said the Owl, The Noise Next Door’s Really Good Afternoon Show and a Family Ceilidh! Highlights of the second week include Oliver in the Overworld; gadgets, magic and shadow play in A Real Alien Adventure, and the return of Louis Pearl, The Amazing Bubbleman. On Friday 14 April, get involved in a full day crammed with low cost Give it a Go! workshops. Try

something different, from circus skills to chocolate making, stage combat to samba drumming. All workshops are £3 per person. Every day across the holidays there are daily Arts and Crafts Sessions and Storytelling. Enjoy the downtime between activities with free table top games in the foyer. The Café Bar is open throughout the day serving a family friendly menu, along with free parking on site. Box office: 01628 788997 / www.nordenfarm.org Easter Eggstravaganza at Odds Farm Park Bigger and better than ever before, don’t miss the Easter Eggstravaganza at “Farm Attraction of the Year” Odds Farm Park. Daily from 1st to 17th April, follow the Trail to earn a treat, take part in Easter-themed crafts and enjoy the super-fun shows. With plenty of new babies due including adorable lambs and cheeky kid goats, don’t miss your chance to meet the Easter cuties.You may even be lucky enough to see one born! Elsewhere, you can meet plenty more furry friends in the undercover animal barns and take part in the daily animal activities programme – including bottle feeding kid goats! Plus, jump on board the daily

Enjoy Easter at Cliveden Cliveden near Maidenhead is the perfect place to enjoy your precious family time over Easter. Spring through daffodils, breathe in the scent of thousands of polyanthus and let little ones run wild in the storybook play den or through Cliveden’s giant maze. From Saturday 1 to Monday 17 April, 10am to

The Look Out Discovery Centre Science and discovery fun over 90 activities. Splash, Bubbles and Balloons Shows run at weekends and school holidays. Age 3+

Bring this advert to get one free child with one full paying adult*. Valid until 31/04/17

*Terms and conditions apply.

Families TVE

14 January 2017 1 May 2017

Be Amazed...

Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Tel: 01344 354400 www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MARCH/APRIL 2017

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........Spring Days Out........

4pm, help Bunny celebrate his outdoor Easter party, but where are his woodland guests hiding? Hunt for clues and play springtime games to receive a Cadbury's chocolate bunny. Hunts cost £3 per child (free for accompanying adults). Usual admission charges apply. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden A Trip to a local Museum Look out for local museums that have Easter activities for the kids. The Chiltern Open Air Museum has an Easter event from 14th-17th April. Children can make traditional treats, join an Easter hunt, see costume reenactors, discover the origins of Easter traditions and dress up in decorated bonnets. Visit www.coam.org.uk Don’t forget to check out what’s on in April at the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden. Check out ‘The Great Chocoplot with Chris Calloghan’ on 17th April or maybe the ‘Terrific Chocolate Bar Wrappers’ workshop on 1 April. Visit www.roalddahl.com/museum for all April activities. Squires Garden Centres Hop along to Squire’s Garden Centres this Easter holidays and children can have fun decorating a terracotta bowl, fill them with beautiful plants and Easter decorations to take home to brighten up the house or garden (£5.50). They can also take part in a Bunny Hunt (£2). Squire’s “Create & Grow” Easter activities take place from Monday 3rd until Thursday 13th April (weekdays only).You can join anytime from 10am3.30pm, no need to book. www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk. The Look Out Discovery Centre There is plenty to do at the centre whatever the weather. Inside, there are over 90 hands-on science and discovery activities. Build an unfinished house with ride-on diggers, test your speed with Batak, make

Telephone: 01628 788058

a mini animation or leave your shadow on the wall! At Easter, the centre is also running the explosive Splash, Bubbles and Balloons Show. Can they really make water disappear? Can they make a fire balloon? For prices and more info: www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre

Join the Moomins for a botanical adventure at Kew Gardens Join the Moomins this Easter at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew from 1st 17th April. The Moomin-themed Easter extravaganza begins at Victoria Gate and the exciting interactive trail will explore the hidden depths of the Gardens. On the trail, children can get creative at interactive points along the way and they may even catch a glimpse of the Moomintrolls through the trees! There will also be Easter craft activity workshop tents for children of all ages, as well as Moomin den building and picnic areas. On Easter Sunday (April 16th) Kew is teaming up with Lindt and children will be able to get their hands on some delicious chocolate treats. www.kew.org © Moomin Characters ™

MARCH/APRIL 2017

In and around London to stretch the family’s comfort zone this Easter! A great one for your Easter plans - never underestimate the thrill of the train into London and the buzz of the capital city. We’ve picked out one or two different ideas for you to look at: Spring is a great time to visit WWT London Wetland Centre as new life is bursting out all around with babies, bugs and buds in abundance. From the 1st-17th April, follow their Easter GIANT duck trail around the nature reserve to discover where they are hiding. There are also Easter arts and craft sessions and the chance to meet 14 celebrity duck characters! Visit: www.wwt.org.uk/wetlandcentres/london How about the Horniman’s Robot Zoo where amazing animals are recreated in robot form to reveal their inner workings. How do chameleons change colour? What makes grasshoppers leap so high? How do bats see at night? Visit: www.horniman.ac.uk Have you visited KidZania yet? Maybe Easter is the time to visit the 75,000 sq.ft. child-size City where kids are in charge! There are more than 60 real life role-play activities for children to try, whether that is in the bank, on stage, on TV or in a hospital for example.Visit: www.london.kidzania.com/en-uk Opening just in time for Easter (from 31st March), you can visit Harry Potter’s Forbidden Forrest at the Warner Bros Studio Tour. You will meet mystical creatures, step over twisting roots of 19 giant trees, meet Aragog and even take control of the weather. For more info and tickets visit: www.wbstudiotour.co.uk Go to our What’s On pages 22-25 for other Easter events too.

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Easter Ca mps & Activities........

Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this Easter holidays? Whether they’re a budding artist, sportsman or a thespian in the making, these clubs and classes offer something for everyone. Don’t forget to say you saw it in Families when you ring! Easter art classes in Slough for children organised by ART CLASSES GROUP. There will be arts and crafts activities, learning drawing and painting techniques. For more information please contact Marinela 0750 164 4537, info@artclassesgroup.com and visit www.artclassesgroup.com ARTSPIRATION is offering a 4 day Holiday Workshop over the Easter break in Maidenhead and Reading. Children (Ages 6-12 years) will get to work with an array of art materials including mosaics, print making, mod roc, plaster casting, pencil shading, charcoal, soft pastels, etc. They will be working from observation and imagination inspired by the works of Artist Pablo Picasso and explore the various styles the artist used in his studio practice. A great way to enhance your knowledge in Art History, learn new techniques, explore many art mediums and take up creative projects under the guidance of practising Artists! www.artspiration.co.uk 0789 616 5819 info@artspiration.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

AMANDA’S ART CLASSES www.amandasart.co.uk, for small groups of children aged 6–13. Amanda will be running Two hour Easter Art Classes in Ascot. Call 0796 882 4560 or 01344 885086 or email a.kavanagh@amandasart.co.uk for further details. Ofsted approved, BUSY BUTTONS CREATIVE STUDIO’S Creative & Sporty Easter Camp is ideal for both boys and girls. Aimed at 3-14 year olds, the camp is fun and educational offering a wide variety of experiences for three whole weeks (3 to 21 April) at Upton House School, Windsor, SL4 3DF. The studio presents children with an enriched, age-appropriate balance of activities that cover designing, prop making, sewing, sculpting, animating, filming, sport, competitions, confidence and team-building challenges. Guided by film and theatre professionals, children are exposed to traditional 2D and 3D creative techniques as well as digital media and can also take part in

MARCH/APRIL 2017

educational trips and hands-on workshops. Their DBS checked staff offer support and assistance to make the children feel safe and comfortable while learning and making friends. Childcare vouchers are accepted and a sibling discount is available. www.busybuttons.org 0800 101 8332 0795 241 8212

HOLIDAY ACTIVE WITH DL KIDS. Make the most of every school holiday! Your children can join for full and half days packed with structured session plans that include sports, arts and crafts, team building games and much more! The DL Kids team strive on ensuring your child has an active holiday with lunch and snacks throughout the day at David Lloyd Beaconsfield. Relax knowing your children are having a great time with their DL Kids friends and staying active during nonschool time! For more information please contact 01628 524411 or visit www.davidlloyd.co.uk HANDS-ON ART ADVENTURES in Old Windsor: Art & Clay workshops; Potters Wheel experiences; Story Ceramics; Pop-in & Paint, DecoPatch or Foam Clay onto ceramics. Free Parking! For more details go to www.hands-onartadventures.co.uk or call Janet on 01753 206265 ALF Villages - LONGRIDGE ACTIVITY CENTRE is running School Holiday Activity days at their riverside site on Quarry Wood Road, Marlow during the Easter holidays. The activity day starts at 8:45am and either finishes at 4pm (cost £40 for 4 activities) or finishes at 5.30pm (costs £50.00 for 5 activities). A sandwich lunch is provided. Activities will be chosen on the day depending on the weather and water levels. Call 0330 303 0101 or book online www.alfvillages.org.uk JUMP IN! and get involved at NORDEN FARM CENTRE FOR THE ARTS this Easter. The holiday is packed with family friendly shows and films. Plus, daily craft and storytelling sessions, immersive art and dance activity clubs. On Friday 14 April, get involved in a full day crammed with low cost Give it a Go! workshops. Try something different, from circus skills to chocolate making, stage combat to samba drumming. All workshops are £3 per person. Booking essential. Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF Box Office / 01628 788997 / www.nordenfarm.org

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........Easter Ca mps & Activities........

PHOENIX GYMNASTICS CLUB is running EASTER ENERGIZE! At Unit 1, Water Oakley Farm, Windsor Road, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 5UJ during the Easter break. Gymnastic sessions for children aged 5 to 12 years of age. Choose from a range of classes with fully qualified British Gymnastic coaches. Children will have the opportunity to try Olympic gymnastic apparatus. Price: £10-25 per session. Look out for PlayGym Plus too - an hour's free play for 4-9 year olds. www.phoenixgym.co.uk. Step into the SECRET GARDEN EASTER HIGHLIGHT COURSE Monday 3rd - Thursday 6th April at REDROOFS, Littlewick Green, Maidenhead. Step through the wrought iron gate for a magical course inspired by the setting of their very own Secret Garden. The timeless story by Frances Hodgson Burnett will be brought to life by young actors both on stage and in the gardens. Design your own Secret Garden, paint a canvas to take home, follow the robin on a garden treasure trail, rehearse in their studios and perform in the delightful miniature theatre. Join them for tea on the timeless lawns after the final performance. 10-4pm daily with wrap around care available. www.redroofs.co.uk/coursesandworkshops emayling@redroofs-school.co.uk, 01628 674092 Burn off that Easter egg energy at RUSH HIGH WYCOMBE TRAMPOLINE PARK. This multi-activity camp is perfect for children aged 5–16 years with lots of energy to burn! Running each day of the Easter holidays from 9am to 4.30pm (apart from Good Friday and Easter Monday) the camp features tumble, freestyle & trampolining coaching as well as unlimited access to courts, dodgeball, wipeout, walking sticks, challenge course, cookery and arts & crafts. If you book before 6th March, you will receive an early bird discount and it will cost £37 per day (saving £6 per day by booking early), or £159 per week (saving £40 as an early-bird), plus there is the option of early drop or late pick up for £2.50–£3.50 extra, depending on timing. There will also be a daily Easter Egg hunt during Toddler Time sessions between 10th17th April. To find out more and to book, visit www.rushuk.com or call 03454 500268. STAGECOACH ASCOT'S Harry Potter Workshop takes place over 3 days, from Monday 3rd April – Wednesday 5th April, from 10am 4.30pm at the Windlesham Theatre, Kennel Lane, Windlesham, GU20 6AA. Suitable for ages 6-18. Cost: £110 (Sibling discount £95). To find out more or book your place call: 01344 206466 or email ascot@stagecoach.co.uk STAGECOACH HIGH WYCOMBE, HENLEY AND MARLOW are offering EASTER HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS at Wycombe High School from 10th to 13th April for ages 4-18yrs. Age: 4-6yrs. Times: 9.3012.30pm. £17.50 per day or if you book before Friday 17th March £70 for 4 days and siblings £50. Age 6-18yrs. Times: 9.30-3.30pm Cost: £30 per day or if you book before Friday 17th March £100 for 4 days and siblings £90. To find out more ring 01494 533203 or go to www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe. SUPER CAMPS daily activity camps are the perfect way to put the magic back into the school holidays. The programme is jam-packed with fun activities that will keep your children entertained for hours, and their 'Outstanding' Ofsted ratings give you the peace of mind that your children are in the best possible care. Camps include a variety of sports, games, and arts and crafts. No two days are the same and the price includes all activities. There is a multi-activity Easter camp at Sir William Borlase’s Grammar school, Marlow and the Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe from April 3rd-13th for ages 4-12, from 9am to 5pm. They are also running a multi-activity camp from April 10th-21st at Hurst Lodge School in Ascot, for ages 4-12, from 8am to 6pm. All childcare vouchers accepted.Visit www.supercamps.co.uk to find out more.

Telephone: 01628 788058

THE GAP CLUB LTD will be running their Easter Holiday Club's at King's Court First School, Old Windsor & Wraysbury Primary School from Monday 3rd April – Thursday 13th April. Opening Times: 8:00am 6:30pm, variable sessions available. They offer sibling discounts and also accept childcare vouchers. For more details on their daily activities please visit: www.thegapclub.com or call: 07854 078728 or email hc_thegapclub@yahoo.co.uk WINDSOR CHINESE ACADEMY are running a Mandarin camp from 3rd-7th April or 10th-14th April at the Brigidine school (Venue TBC) in Windsor. Improve your Chinese along with the chance to practice Kung Fu and Chinese art as well as cooking your own Chinese meal! Phone 07584 568488 or email nihao@windsorchineseacademy.com to book www.windsorchineseacademy.com

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 e: farm@basilandcrew.co.uk • www.basilandcrew.co.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

What’s On

Knights, princesses and Family Saturdays at Windsor Castle throughout March

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

Swan Lake is at the Theatre Royal Windsor, March 13-18

MARCH Weekends and school holidays SPLASH, BUBBLES AND BALLOONS SHOW The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW, 01344 354400. This bubbling and explosive show is not to be missed. Watch as we make water disappear, defy gravity with floating bubbles and antics with balloons. £1.95.Show times are at 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3.15pm, subject to minimum numbers. No need to pre-book tickets for the shows; tickets can be purchased from reception on the day. Saturdays in March FEARSOME KNIGHTS AND FAIR PRINCESSES AT THE CASTLE Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ. Family Saturdays this month focus on Knights and Princesses. 11am-4pm. Usual admission charges apply. On Saturday, 11 March, listen to tales of chivalry from our storyteller in the State Apartments and come dressed as your favourite princess or knight. Weekends until March 26 CRAZY ENTERTAINERS Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP10 0LX, 01628 520188. Join in with the madness and mayhem of the Crazy Entertainers. With several shows daily, all the extra fun is included in entry. Plus all the animals, early lambs and giant playbarn fun. www.oddsfarm.co.uk Tuesdays to March 21 TODDLER GROUP Coworth Flexlands School, Chertsey Road, GU24 8TE, 01276 855707 2pm to 3.15pm held in the Mais Ogle Hall with access to Nursery playground and woodland area. www.coworthflexlands.co.uk/school-life/babytoddler-group

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Running Wild at the Wycombe Swan, March 14-18

Every Monday,Thursday & Friday DIDDY DISCO Various Venues, Marlow, SL7 3LA, 07836 640430. Diddy Disco is an active music class for babies & young children 9.15am & 10.15am / £7, Runs Mondays in Cookham, Thursday & Friday in Marlow www.diddydisco.co.uk Thursday March 2, 9 & 16 ART ADVENTURES Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. Explore all the possibilities of playing with art materials to build up your drawing skills. Experiment with chalk pastel, charcoal, ink and oil pastel. Discover how to make your drawings look more realistic. Suitable for ages 7+ years. £30 per 3 week course. www.norden.farm Tuesday March 7 to Saturday 11 JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames Street, Windsor, SL1 1PS, 01753 853888 Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling musical starring X Factor winner Joe McElderry. Unforgettable songs including Those Canaan Days, Any Dream Will Do and Close Every Door.Various times and prices. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Friday March 10 TINY TALK TIME – THE SMARTEST GIANT IN TOWN Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe, HP13 6PX. Special time for 2 to 4 year olds includes stories, trails & craft activities, booking required. 10.30-11.30am & 1.152.15pm, £3 Saturday March 11 FANTASTIC BEASTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM Firestation Centre for the Arts, St Leonards Road, Windsor, 01753 866865. Fantastical adventure. Screening at 1pm, £3.50 child, £6 adults. www.firestationartscentre.com Monday March 13 to Saturday 18 SWAN LAKE Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames Street, Windsor, SL1 1PS, 01753 853888. One of the best known love stories, performed by the ever popular Vienna Festival Ballet. Mon - Sat 7.30pm, Thu & Sat 2.30pm. Tickets £15 £31. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Tuesday March 14 to Saturday 18 RUNNING WILD BY MICHAEL MORPURGO Wycombe Swan Theatre, St Marys Street, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 2XE, 01494 514444 Family show, 6+yrs, booking required. From £21.50 www.wycombeswan.co.uk Saturday March 18 BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET Desborough College, Shoppenhangers Road, SL6 2QB, 01628 63450. Stalls selling excellent quality nearly new baby & children's items from birth to 8 years.Plus a small selection of unique businesses in the baby and children's industry showcasing and selling their products and services all under one roof! £1. 2.30-4pm. www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Saturdays March 18 & April 29 and Sundays March 19 & April 30 OPEN GARDEN DAY AT STUBBINGS Stubbings Estate, Henley Road, Maidenhead, SL6 6QL, 01628 825454 National Gardens Scheme opening for charity. 10am to 4.30pm, £3.50, children free. www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk Sunday March 19 & Saturday April 15 WINDSOR FUN RUN SERIES Dorney Lake, Eton College Rowing Centre, off Court Lane, Dorney, SL4 6QP, 01753 832756 Now in its 10th year, this is the premier Winter Run Series with 5km, 10km, 15km, 20km runs. www.f3events.co.uk/events/running Sunday March 19 MANE CHANCE CHARITY GALA Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames Street, Windsor, SL1 1PS, 01753 853888. A star-studded line-up includes Brian Conley, Paul Zerdin of ‘America’s Got Talent’, Sue Holderness & Rula Lenska. In aid of horse rescue charity. 7.30pm, tickets from £35 www.manechancesanctuary.org Monday March 20 to Wednesday 22 BABE THE SHEEP PIG Wycombe Swan Theatre, St Marys Street, High Wycombe, HP11 2XE, 01494 514444. Family show with plenty of laughter, thrills, stunning puppetry and original music, booking required.Various times, tickets from £16 www.wycombeswan.co.uk Monday March 20 to Saturday 25 NORTHANGER ABBEY Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames Street, Windsor, SL1 1PS, 01753 853888 Adapted by acclaimed Austen specialist Tim Luscombe, this production portrays Jane Austen at her most heartfelt. 8pm, Thu 2.30pm, Sat 4.45pm, £15 - £31 www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Thursday March 23 VINTAGE CINEMA – THE GOONIES The Hellfire Caves, Church Lane, West Wycombe, HP14 3AH, 07919 210734 Family film, PG rated in this Pop up cinema. Check website for times, prices and full pop-up screening listings. www.vintagecinema.co.uk Saturday March 25 CANDLE LAMP MAKING Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997.Make a fun Easter themed fabric lantern in this craft session led by Natalie Griffin-Smith. The lantern includes a battery operated tea light with a unique flicker flame! A great alternative to candles and nightlights in the bedroom. www.norden.farm Sunday March 26 MOTHER’S DAY Cliveden National Trust, Taplow, Maidenhead, SL1 8NS, 01628 605069. Free entry for mums on their special day. A special treat awaits on their arrival (numbers limited). 10am to 5pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Thursday March 30 EASTER BUNNY’S PICNIC Black Park Country Park, Wexham, Bucks, SL3 6DR. See what surprises the Easter Bunny has left for you to find! Enjoy an Easter egg hunt in Foxley Copse and lots of free play activities. Please remember to bring your own picnic. £3 per child, pay and display charges apply. Advance booking required. 11am to 12.30pm. Call 01753 511060 or email countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk

MARCH/APRIL 2017

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Compiled by Siobhan Newman Event times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

See the Goonies at the Hellfire Caves, March 23

Fabulous Fashions at Windsor Castle, Saturdays in April

APRIL Saturdays April 1 to 29 (exc Sunday 16) FABULOUS FASHIONS Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ. Family activities looking at 300 years of royal fashion from Henry VIII to George III. Follow an Easter activity trail and take part in our art workshop.11am-4pm. Usual admission charges apply. Saturday April 1 MULTICULTURAL MOSAICS MIRROR ART DAY Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. Make a unique and fun mosaic wall piece & explore pattern and mark making from worldwide cultures to inspire your design. £30 (plus £8 materials, payable to the tutor). Suitable for ages 7-11 years. 10am-3pm. www.norden.farm Saturday April 1 DONATION DAY Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB. For one day only, visitors pay a donation of their choice instead of standard admission price 10am to 5pm www.coam.org.uk Saturday April 1 to Monday 17 WOODLAND WONDERS EASTER PUZZLER Burnham Beeches, Lord Mayors Drive, Burnham Beeches Road, Farnham Common, SL2 3TE. Try out one of our puzzle trails: easy or fiendishly difficult, ages 5 – 95. Just pick up a leaflet from the Info Point and guide yourself along the route. Donation £2 Daily Saturday April 1 to Monday 17 EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP10 0LX, 01628 520188. Meet the Easter Bunny, follow the trail to earn a delicious treat, take part in Easter-themed crafts and enjoy daily shows. www.oddsfarm.co.uk Daily Saturday April 1 to Monday 17 CLIVEDEN EASTER EGG HUNT Cliveden National Trust, Taplow, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL1 8NS, 01628 605069. When the humans are away, the rabbits will play. Come & find them hidden in Cliveden's glorious gardens and get a chocolate bunny to remember them by. 10am to 4pm £3 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Daily Saturday April 1 to Monday 17 HUGHENDEN EASTER EGG HUNT Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP14 4LA, 01494 755573. Hunt for giant eggs in Hughenden's gardens & receive a chocolate prize. 10am to 4pm, £3 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hughenden Sunday April 2 SPRING FAMILY RACEDAY Ascot Racecourse, High Street, Ascot, SL5 7JX, 0844 346 3000. Free for children under 18, Ascot's first family raceday of 2017 is packed full of activities for children of all ages. Split into different 'zones', this raceday will aim to help children appreciate where their food comes from, how traditional crafts and skills are still used today and the overall importance of our countryside. www.ascot.co.uk Monday April 3 FILM WALK Black Park Country Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, Buckinghamshire, SL3 6DR. Meet at the Black Park Visitor Information Point to see some of the locations from popular film and TV productions. Black Park has played host to a great number of major film, television and music productions including Harry Potter and James Bond. Cost: £5 adult, £3 child, £14 family. Advance booking required, well behaved dogs welcome. For more information call 01753 511060 or email countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk 2pm to 3.30pm. Monday April 3 to Friday 7 (exc Tues 4) KID’S 1 DAY TV PRESENTING COURSE Pinewood Studios, Pinewood Road, Iver Heath, SL0 0NH, 08000 463 447. Course covers skills such as camera communication, autocue, green screen & co presenting, 8 to 15years, booking required. 10am to 4pm,£150. www.tvtraining.org.uk Tuesday April 4 FROZEN SING-A-LONG Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. Let It Go and sing along. 11.30am. £3-5. Also Saturday April 8. www.norden.farm Tuesday April 4 TERRIFIC TUESDAY Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB. Special themed family activities, games & crafts plus BBQ food available to purchase. Activities run 11am to 3.30pm. www.coam.org.uk Tuesday April 4 TRAIL TRACKERS Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe, HP14 4LA, 01494 755573. Kids can be a real trail tracker with the ranger team. Put your orienteering skills to the test with a compass & map, booking required. 10.30am to 12noon, £4. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hughenden Tuesday April 4 and Wednesday 5 WOW! SAID THE OWL Norden Farm Centre for the Arts as above. Explore the wow-wow world of colours with a curious little owl who is determined to stay awake to see what daylight brings. 11.30am and 2pm.Based on the acclaimed children’s book by Tim Hopgood. Suitable for age 2+ years. £10 (£8 under 16s), Family & Friends (4 people) £32. www.norden.farm

Telephone: 01628 788058

What’s On

Get the Buzz at Wolley Firs on April 5 (Photo Nigel Smith)

Tuesday April 4 and Wednesday 5 BIRD BOX BUILDING Black Park Country Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, SL3 6DR, 0845 370 8090. With the Ranger's help, have a go at hammering nails and bits of wood together to make a home for the birds in your garden. No need to book, simply pop in to the Lakeside Room (next to the Information Point at Black Park) Tuesday or Wednesday, 10am to 12pm. £5 per bird box. Wednesday April 5 LANDFILL HARMONIC Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, as above. Film following the amazing journey of a garbage picker, a music teacher and a group of children who create the most unlikely orchestra, made entirely out of trash. 2pm. £7 (£5 under 16s). www.norden.farm Wednesday April 5 BUGS & BEASTS Black Park Country Park as above.Hunt for creepy crawlies with the help of Rangers, using a mini-beast kit. Book an hour long slot and meet at the Visitor Information Point to start your Bugs and Beasts Hunt. 2-3pm. Cost: £5 per family (max 2 adults + 2 children), pay and display charges apply. Advance booking required. Suitable for all the family. For more information please call 01753 511060 or email countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk Wednesday April 5 to Friday 7 GET THE BUZZ – WHY BEES ARE BRILLIANT Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ, 01635 874 381. Make a bee, see like a bee and collect pollen for a prize. Learn how to help bees in your garden and sow a bulb or wildflower seed to take home. Test your taste buds with different types of honey. Bring a picnic if you like. 4-10 years 10am-2pm. www.bbowt.org.uk Thursday April 6 to Friday 7 DANCE INTENSIVE COURSE Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997 Experience being an A-Troupe dancer in a real dance studio for two jam packed days. Suitable for ages 9-12 years. £75 (£65 Advantage Card). Work with a professional dancer to develop your technique in class, learn routines and create your own choreography. www.norden.farm Thursday April 6 THE NOISE NEXT DOOR’S REALLY, REALLY GOOD AFTERNOON SHOW Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, as above. Join The Noise Next Door for an epic explosion of outlandish characters, perfect punchlines and awesome songs all mixed with off-the-cuff antics. For ages 8+. As seen on ITV1, ITV2, BBC3 and on BBC1 and as heard on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 4! £10, £8 under 16s, Family and Friends (4 people) £32. Friday April 7 FAMILY CONCERTINI: MUSIC FOR WOODWIND Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, as above. Be prepared to be blown away by an inspiring concert of woodwind music for the whole family. A relaxed performance with interaction afterwards. For ages 3+. £10 (£8 under 16s), Family & Friends (4 people) £32, 11.30am FAMILY CONCERTINI: MUSIC FOR BRASS A fun, interactive concert of brass music featuring music from the Renaissance to the present day. Prices as above, 2pm. Saturday April 8 PETE’S DRAGON Firestation Centre for the Arts, St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3BL, 01753 866865. Some secrets are too big to keep. An extraordinary adventure film about a boy who got lost in the woods. 1pm, tickets £3.50 child, £6 adult. www.firestationartscentre.com Sunday April 9 FAMILY CEILIDH SESSION Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, as above. A live band, easy to learn dance steps and lots of laughter for a Sunday afternoon. Join us for a reel and a jig around the Long Barn. A great way for families to spend some fine quality time together. £10 (£8 under 16s). Family and Friends (4 people) £32.

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

What’s On

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

The Noise Next Door visit Norden Farm on April 6

See Landfill Harmonic at Norden Farm on April 5 and 8

Pete’s Dragon Firestation Centre for the Arts Windsor, April 8

Sunday April 9 & Monday 10 BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Wycombe Swan Theatre, St Mary’s Street, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 2XE, 01494 514444. An all-singing, all-dancing, laugh-a-minute ride through the fun and frolics of panto land, starring Keith Chegwin, booking required. From £14. www.wycombeswan.co.uk Monday April 10 EASTER WORKSHOP: BE A COMPOSER Wycombe Swan Theatre, as above. Are you a budding musician that wants to be taught all the skills to compose your own symphony? Workshop suitable for 10+yrs, Grade 3+. 10am to 5pm, £30. Monday April 10 to Friday 14 BLACK PARK EASTER TRAIL Black Park Country Park, Wexham, SL3 6DR, 0845 370 8090. Follow the self-led trail through Black Park to see if you can help the Easter Bunny find her missing eggs and you'll get a chocolatey reward at the end! No need to book, just pick up your map at the Visitor Information Point in Black Park between 10am and 12pm. Cost: £3 per child, pay and display charges apply. Suitable for all the family, well behaved dogs welcome. Tuesday April 11 FAMILY FUN – HOW TO BE A NATURE DETECTIVE Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ, 01635 874 381. Hone your animal tracking skills, look for clues and help us prove the woods are alive! 6-12 years. Children must be accompanied at all times please. Booking essential. Two-hour session. 10am and 1pm. www.bbowt.org.uk Tuesday April 11 EASTER WORKSHOP: SCRAP ANIMATION Wycombe Swan Theatre, St Marys Street, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 2XE, 01494 514444 Scrap meets animation to make some weird and wonderful creatures come to life, using yoghurt pots to video tape, 7+yrs, booking required. 10am to 5pm, £30. www.wycombeswan.co.uk

Tuesday April 11 OLIVER IN THE OVERWORLD Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. Featuring fully integrated Sign Language, an ingenious show with big laughs! A little deaf boy travels to The Overworld, The Land of Machinery, seeking the parts to mend the memory of his best friend Oliver the Grandfather Clock. Suitable for age 3+ years. 11.30am and 2pm. £10, £8 under 16s, Family and Friends (4 people) £32. www.norden.farm Tuesday April 11 to Saturday 15 FAME THE MUSICAL Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames Street, Windsor, SL1 1PS, 01753 853888. A bittersweet but inspiring story of a diverse group of students as they commit to years of grueling artistic and academic work. Great songs and dance routines. Well-known songs such as Hard Work, Bring on Tomorrow and Fame, coupled with loads of exciting and energetic dance routines. 7.30pm, Thu and Sat 2.30pm. Tickets £13 - £29. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Tuesday April 11 to Thursday 13 JUMP IN! ART DAZE Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. Three whole days of arts and crafts. Be inspired by letters, words and numbers to create pieces both in 2D and 3D. Use playing cards, old books and Scrabble pieces to make car licence plates, thermometers, signs and classic phones plus lots more. Suitable for age 8+ years. £85 for 3 days (£75 with Advantage Card). www.norden.farm Wednesday April 12 A REAL ALIEN ADVENTURE Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, as above. Full of home-made gadgets, magic and shadow play. Suitable for age 4+. Follow intrepid explorer, Amelia Buttersnap, on an intergalactic mission to find out if aliens really do exist and what they want with her cat? A rip-roaring, intergalactic space adventure. 11.30am and 2pm. £10, £8 under 16s, Family and Friends (4 people) £32. Wednesday April 12 BLACK PARK, NIGHT WALK Black Park Country Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, SL3 6DR. An atmospheric walk experiencing Black Park at night, discover life in the park after sunset. Suitable for: 7-12s, Teenagers, Adults – no dogs please. Meet at Black Park Kiosk, bring a torch and wear suitable footwear. 4 mile walk, weather dependant. Booking is

essential. £5 per adult, £3 per child, £4 concs, £14 per family (max 2 adults, 2 children), 7-9pm. For more information please call 01753 511060. Wednesday April 12 and Thursday 13 BALLET: ALICE IN WONDERLAND Wycombe Swan Theatre, St Mary’s Street, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP11 2XE, 01494 514444. With its whimsical flights of the imagination, eclectic music and joyful dance, this is delightful entertainment for all ages, booking required. From £20. www.wycombeswan.co.uk Thursday April 13 WONKA’S SPECTACULAR CIRCUS TRICKS The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, HP16 0AL, 01494 892192. Learn amazing circus skills & be awed by marvellous magic tricks, 4+yrs. 10.30am, 12noon, 1.30 & 3pm, £5. www.roalddahl.com/museum Thursday April 13 and Friday 14 JACK AND THE BEANS TALK Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. Charming and inventive with plenty of interaction, an enormous beanstalk, bags of gold and a smelly old giant. For ages 3+. 11.30am Thursday, 2pm Friday. £10 (£8 under 16s), Family & Friends (4 people) £32. www.norden.farm Friday April 14 to Monday 17 EASTER EGG HUNT RUNNYMEDE National Trust, Runnymede Estate Office, North Lodge, Windsor Road, Old Windsor, SL4 2JL, 01784 432891. Come and frolic in the Runnymede meadows as you follow a traditional Easter Egg Hunt.10am-4pm. Friday April 14 to Monday 17 EASTER EGG HUNT GREYS COURT Rotherfield Greys, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 4PG, 01491 628529. Bunny has been busy at Greys Court, leaving clues all around the estate for you to find and solve this Easter. 11am to 4.30pm, £3. Friday April 14 to Monday 17 EASTER TREATS CHILTERN OPEN AIR MUSEUM Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Bucks, HP8 4AB. Make treats, join the Easter hunt, do Easter-themed crafts, learn about Easter traditions & customs, join in family games & more! 10am to 5pm. Adult £10.50, Child £6.50. www.coam.org.uk Sunday April 16 EASTER EGG HUNT & ACTIVITIES Burnham Beeches, Lord Mayors Drive, Burnham Beeches Road, Farnham Common, SL2 3TE. Easter craft activities & egg hunt through the Beeches. Hot cross buns & prizes on offer for those completing an activity sheet. Bring a pencil! 2 to 4pm. Monday April 17 THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. From square bubbles, bubbles inside bubbles, fog-filled bubbles, giant bubbles, bubble volcanoes, tornados and trampolines, to people inside bubbles! Suitable for age 3+ years. £10 (£8 under 16s), Family and Friends (4 people) £32 11.30am and 2pm. www.norden.farm Friday April 21 & Monday 24 NATURE TOTS Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ, 01635 874381 Each session will include activities such as bughunting, mud-painting and mask-making. Games, story-time and refreshments also included! 9.30 and 1pm sessions. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for children aged 18 months to 4 years. See website for other dates. www.bbowt.org.uk

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

07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com

Blossom Ballet

is about having lots of fun and making new friends. Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Bray and Maidenhead.

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Compiled by Siobhan Newman Event times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

Be a nature detective at Woolley Firs on April 11 Saturday April 22 GUNG-HO SERIOUSLY FUN 5K Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, SL4 5JJ, 01753 498400.You can take part in the most hilarious inflatable 5k fun run or fun walk with Europe’s biggest ever inflatable slide. 9am-2pm. Spectators will also be able to enjoy the event from the stands. From £36. www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk Saturday April 22 and Sunday 23 MEET THE LAMBS Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB. Learn about the lambing traditions of the Victorian Chilterns in the working farm and get involved in fun family craft activities. 10am to 5pm / Adult £10.50, Child £6.50. www.coam.org.uk Wednesday April 26 and Thursday 27 LITTLE BUGS – TODDLER DAY The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354400. Themed activities for tots from 10am to 4pm. Include art and craft activities, story-telling and face or hand painting. £6.90 per parent and toddler, and £1.55 for each additional toddler (up to a maximum of 3). Sunday April 30 BLUEBELL WALK Runnymede National Trust, Runnymede Estate Office North Lodge Windsor Road, Old Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 2JL, 01784 432891 Come and enjoy one of the most inspiring sights at Runnymede in spring. 11-12.30 guided walk. Adult £6, child £3. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/runnymede Sunday April 30 and Monday May 1 ELIZABETHAN ADVENTURE Chiltern Open Air Museum, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. Discover life in the 16th Century, meet costumed re-enactors, watch an Elizabethan duel & exciting displays of artillery from the longbow to the gun.10am to 5pm. Adult £10.50, child £6.50 www.coam.org.uk Monday May 1 FAMILY FUN DAY AT THE RACES Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, SL4 5JJ, 01753 498400. Advanced Club tickets from £22. Entrance free for racegoers under the age of 18 when accompanied by an adult. Gates open 12pm. www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 788058

See A Real Alien Adventure at Norden Farm on April 12

What’s On

Hunt Easter eggs and meet bunnies at Odds Farm this April

PERFORM WEEKLY DRAMA, DANCE AND SINGING Ages: 4-12 About: A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child's true potential. Small classes and lots of individual attention. No-obligation FREE trial for newcomers. Summer 2017 term themes: From April, Perform 4-7s will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the Golden Mane. The 7-12s will be zooming off on a funfilled outer space adventure with Robinson Crusoe in a space-age version of the castaway survival classic. Dates: Summer term starts Tuesday 18th April 2017 Venues: Boyne Hill Infant School, Rutland Rd, Maidenhead SL6 4HZ 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays 11.15am Magnet Leisure Centre, Holmanleaze, Maidenhead SL6 8AW

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4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5pm All Saints Church Hall, The Causeway, Marlow SL7 2AA 4-7s Mondays 4pm, Thursdays 4 & 5pm; 7-12s Mondays 5pm; Perform X (6-12s) Wednesdays 4 & 5pm Christ Church C of E School, Christchurch Rd,Virginia Water GU25 4PX 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays 11.15am Hilltop First School, Clewer Hill Rd, Windsor SL4 4DW 4-7s Tuesdays and Fridays 4pm; Perform X (6-12s) Saturdays 11.15am Clewer Youth Centre, Clewer Parish Hall, Windsor SL4 5EW 4-7s Tuesdays and Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Tuesdays and Fridays 5pm Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Competitions and Offers with WIN 2 FESTIVAL PASSES FOR NORDEN FARM’S JUMP IN! FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL THIS EASTER

WIN JOHNSON’S TOP-TO-TOE RANGE The Johnson’s top-to-toe range is specially formulated for babies, and is as safe to use as water alone, from the very first day.The products gently cleanse and protect baby’s first line of defence their skin.

The Jump In! Family Arts Festival is the annual Easter holiday celebration at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts in Maidenhead. A fun packed fortnight of new experiences for children and families which includes daily shows, family films, workshops and an interactive gallery exhibition. Plus daily craft sessions and dynamic storytelling in the magical story den.Visit www.nordenfarm.org for details. One lucky reader will win two Festival Passes offering each person access to 2 family shows and 1 family film at Norden Farm during the Easter holidays. For your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to competitions@familiestveast.co.uk

Included in the range is Johnson’s topto-toe moisturising baby cream, baby massage lotion, baby massage oil, baby bath and washcloths. For more information, visit: www.johnsonsbaby.co.uk Families has 3 complete sets to giveaway and for your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to competitions@familiestveast.co.uk What are the benefits of baby massage?

What is Norden Farm's Family Arts festival called? A) Jump in!

B) Dive in!

A) It’s a good way of bonding with your baby B) It helps baby’s social and cognitive development C) Both of the above, plus it can be an important part of a bedtime routine!

C) Get stuck in!

Closing date for competition entries is March 27 *T&C’s apply

Closing date for competition entries is April 10 *T&C’s apply

WIN TICKETS TO THE EASTER EGGSTRAVAGANZA AT ODDS FARM PARK Guaranteed to give you the Ahhhh factor, there's plenty of Easter Fun at “Farm Attraction of the Year”, Odds Farm Park and we have 4 sets of Entry Tickets for 2 Adults and 2 Children to give away! Daily from 1st to 17th April, follow the trail to earn a treat, take part in Easter-themed crafts and enjoy the super-fun shows! And, with plenty of new babies due including adorable lambs and cheeky kid goats, don’t miss your chance to meet the Easter cuties! You may even be lucky enough to see one born! Elsewhere, you can meet plenty more furry friends in the undercover animal barns, including bottle feeding kid goats. Plus, jump on board the daily tractor & trailer rides* for a fun tour of the farm, enjoy the giant indoor play barn and there’s acres more adventure outside. Award winning Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield. For full details, call 01628 520188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk.

To win an Entry Ticket to Odds Farm Park for 2 Adults and 2 Children, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to competitions@familiestveast.co.uk What Animals Can You Bottle Feed At Odds Farm Park This Easter? A) Goats B) Rabbits C) Pigs Closing date for competition entries is 24th March 2017 *(April-October, Weather Permitting). *T&C’s apply

*Competition Terms and Conditions:

For Little Kickers classes in Maidenhead, Bourne End, Henley & Marlow. Call 01628 526 584 or email bevans@littlekickers.co.uk. For Little Kickers classes at Ascot, Slough, Windsor and Stoke Poges call 07412 166 686 or email sleslie@littlekickers.co.uk

Approved football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years. Local classes at a venue near you. Safe, friendly and fun!

Call for Birthday Party entertainment information

www.littlekickers.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MARCH/APRIL 2017

1. Only one entrant from same e-mail address or household will be accepted 2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering 3. Entries must be received by the closing date and proof of sending cannot be taken as proof of receipt 4. All decisions of Families magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into 5. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize 6. Only the winners’ details will be supplied to the Promoter of the competition 7. Families Magazine is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition 8. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions 9. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and contacted via the email address provided by the entrant. If the Promoter does not obtain a response from the winner within 21 days, we reserve the right to select another winner at random 10. Automated/bulk entries and entries from third parties will be disqualified 11. This competition is restricted to UK residents only.

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........Parenting........

TURNING ROUTINE UPSIDE DOWN

We’re constantly worrying about the perfect routine for our children! But have you ever taken a closer look at the impact our kids have on our routine as adults? Anna Collins takes a closer look at some of those traits: 1. Staying up late / Going to bed early You know, the one where you stay up late, just to get some ‘me time’. It may not even be ‘me time’, you may just need space to get some chores done. Then it gets to 10pm and you just haven’t sat down, so on goes the latest box set episode & glass of wine is poured and suddenly it’s past 11pm. If it’s not one extreme, it’s the other. Just one night of a child waking up and you find it hard to function the next day. So that’s it, bed at 8.30pm the next evening! You know what you really need is to achieve somewhere in the middle. You’re so proud when you are in bed by 10.20pm with your cup of chamomile and book and are asleep by 11pm. Perfect. 2. Missing out on Exercise Once upon a time you had all weekend to exercise, whether that was rowing on the river by 7am, a half-day session in the gym followed by swim and sauna or a day out cycling with a picnic in the middle. How things change. Post-kids it’s a case of fitting exercise in somewhere and making it quick and high-impact or it can so easily slide to the back of the queue. 30 minutes run from your front door is quicker than a gym visit, pilates that starts at 8pm not 6.30pm allows you to get there after the kids have gone to bed and for those of you with really little ones? maybe it’s time to make the most of the buggy walk! As kids get older work out what you can do with them. A visit to the swimming pool, where each parent does a 30 minute parenting shift and then 30 minute swim for themselves can work well or perhaps an off-road family cycle? 3. Finding it impossible to find a free date to meet with your friends You want to meet your mum (or Dad) friends, but finding a free night sometimes seems like an impossible task to the point where the ringleader gives up and you start again the next month or ‘after Christmas’. Finding free dates amongst work, admin, homework, Brownies, school events swimming, partner’s diary, PTA, chicken pox, yoga…can sometimes feel like mission impossible, but when you all finally get it together…what bliss it is!

4. Creating admin mountains while doing breakfast. The draw-back?: her The admin is piling up, the housework needs phone ended up in the washing machine. doing and the baby isn’t sleeping. The early days Sometimes taking things one step at a time will are particularly hard to juggle when it comes to help you enjoy your kids, do other tasks better the most basic of administrative jobs. The more and hopefully lead to less stress! kids you have the more admin you end up doing Parents forget that their routine is important for them all! As children get older encourage too. Make sure you spend time fine-tuning responsibility however small and transfer some yours as well as the kids’. It will help you feel in of the admin onto the rest of the family. Even a 2 control and lead to a happier family life. year old can put shoes away and get into good habits themselves. 5. Skipping a ‘date night’ Try and prevent ‘the date night’ being something else you skip. It can be an effort to arrange a baby-sitter, dress up and escape out for an evening, but once you are there you’ll be glad you pulled yourself off the sofa. You’ll probably end up discussing the children but try and do something that takes you out of your comfort zone or encourages you to talk about something different. 6. Putting the kids’ meals first It’s tempting to make sure the kids are fed, get them bathed, to bed and then collapse on the sofa with toast. It goes without saying, eating well should give you energy, a strong immune system and possibly a chance to speak to your other half! It’s also worth meal planning once a week to take the stress out of the daily meal decisions. 7. Multitasking Cooking a kids meal, ParentingSuccess Creating healthy habits for the whole family writing a proposal and emptying the dishwasher at the same time? It might not be exactly these three chores , but I bet you’ve Do you need support in becoming the best parent you can be? experienced similar? Yes, Then we can help; sometimes you can get ParentingSuccess support you to create the family you want. away with multi-tasking, We offer workshops throughout Surrey & Berkshire covering a range of but it can be fraught different topics: positive discipline, confidence, raising independent children, teenagers and lots more. with risk. A mum from We also work with schools & corporate. Hollyport was so happy she’d managed to get a Email: mette@parentingsuccesscoaching.com Call:07756 918126 washing load on before Parentingsuccess Coaching @ParentSuccessCo Call:07756 918126 Call:07756 918126 the school run and Visit: www.parentingsuccesscoaching.com Parentingsuccess Coaching @ParentSuccessCo Parentingsuccess Coaching @ParentSuccessCo VV

Telephone: 01628 788058

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

........Fa milies Interview........

International best-selling author Joanne Harris spoke to Families about life as a writer, how storytelling has evolved through social media, and gives her advice for those with a passion for writing stories. The success of Chocolat kick-started your career as an author - was it an easy decision to retire from teaching? Writing is generally a job that doesn’t make a lot of money, and nearly all writers have another job. For my first three published books I was a teacher and if one of my books hadn’t been unexpectedly successful I would have stayed a teacher. When you reach a certain level of success it’s very difficult to do the two things at once, so I gave up teaching. I thought then temporarily, and it turned out to be permanent. But it could have been different. How did it feel when you found out that Chocolat was being made into a film? I didn’t believe it at first, because books get optioned all the time, but very rarely do they end up making films. I started to pay attention when they started filming, and when they invited me on set, when it was clear something was actually happening. By then it didn’t really have much to do with me, so I was able to enjoy it in a different way. It was very nicely done, the cast was great, the direction was great, the score was great, and they deserved the success it had. Do you ever meet people and think they would make a great character in a book? I’m borrowing from people all the time. It’s part of being a writer, using the experiences you have with people and conversations; things you’ve noticed about them, and you filter them through this process. I don’t think I’ve ever actually put someone in a book, but I think we all borrow extensively from other people around us.

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

How long does it usually take you to write a book? I’m usually working on more than one thing. Some have taken me 10 years to finish, some only one. Some I’ve started and then finished 5,10 or 15 years later. I tend to start things off and then quite often put them on the back burner for a bit, work on something else and then go back. Sometimes I just need to let it lie, do some research, or work out a plot construction. You’re very active on social media, do you think this new digital age we’re living in has changed the way people tell stories? I think it’s had an impact on the whole of the book business in a lot of ways, some good, some bad. What it has done is given us more access to each other and provides a much more interactive side to telling stories. I tell my #Storytime stories on Twitter, and you really feel as if you’re talking to people, because it’s a very conversational medium, which is its charm. What advice would you give to children or adults if they have a passion for writing and want to take it to the next level? To be a professional writer you have to write, a lot, and understand that a lot of it will be bad but practice makes you better. So start writing, and don’t worry too much about where you are heading. Also read a lot, because the more you read the more you realise how writing works and why it’s good and why it fails, and just keep improving all the time.

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Kyte Photography

AUTHOR JOANNE HARRIS SPEAKS TO FAMILIES

Have you faced any challenges when writing books, and what did you learn from them? It’s useful to keep an open mind. There is no way you can please everyone all the time. Learn to live with criticism even if you think it is unfair and still do what you are doing. If you are absolutely convinced that your book is a masterpiece, but people read it and think it’s rubbish, then there’s probably some truth in it. However, keep believing you can do it, and learn from mistakes, acknowledge them and move on. Do you have any new books or projects that our readers can look out for? I’ve got an illustrated book of the Storytime stories coming out, hopefully next year, called Honeycomb. I’m also working on a sequel to The Gospel of Loki, which hopefully will come out the year after next. I’ve also got another illustrated project, which may or may not come out next year. Favourite childhood book(s)/ author? Ray Bradbury - Something Wicked This Way Comes Favourite character you’ve created? The villain in Gentlemen and Players Favourite book/story you’ve written? The Gospel of Loki Favourite writing drink? Tea Favourite writing food? Toast The best thing about being an author? Spending my life doing something I love, and getting it out to people who also love it. For more information on Joanne Harris and her work, go to www.joanneharris.co.uk

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

........Bu mps & Babes........

TIPS AND ADVICE ON POTTY TRAINING TODDLERS Potty training your toddler can be tricky, especially if they seem a little nonresponsive to begin with…

...Knowing when to start There’s very little point in trying to potty train your child before they are physically and emotionally ready, which is usually at around two years of age – although for some children it may take longer. Look out for signs that your child is becoming aware of doing a ‘wee’ or ‘poo’. They may tell you that they are wet or dirty, or that they are wetting their nappy or is about to do so. Another sign that your child is learning control is if their nappy is still dry after they’ve worn it for a number of hours. Once you have decided to start you need to be prepared to persevere, so choose a period when you know you will have time to give your child the extra attention that they will need. How to begin Explain in simple words what you want your child to do. Tell them that it’s what you and ‘big’ children do and that they’ll be able to wear ‘big pants’ once they’re out of nappies. Select certain times of day to sit them on the potty – perhaps after meals – but if you can, try to choose times when your child usually wets or dirties themselves. Your child may get the hang of potty training very quickly, or they may think the whole thing is a joke, or even treat it with complete disinterest. If they refuse to sit on the potty for more than a few minutes, don’t force it.You don’t want to turn this into a battle of wills! Try sitting with your little one and reading a story or just talking. When your child achieves something, give lots of praise or even reward them with a small treat. Telephone: 01628 788058

Never show your displeasure or punish your child for not performing – this will only reduce their self-confidence and cause tension between you both. Equally, it’s important not to overdo the praise when your little one does something in the potty because they may think they’ve been naughty in some way when nothing happens in the future. Potty training is all about negotiation and persuasion, not anger and blame. The next steps While your child is learning to become clean and dry, putting them in training pants rather than nappies will make life easier for you both. Once your little one has achieved a certain amount of control you can introduce the idea of wearing ordinary pants. There will probably be some accidents at first, but don’t panic. Staying dry at night It’s unlikely that your toddler will become dry at night at the same time as they are dry during the day. Few children achieve this and many are well into their third year before they are completely dry during the night.

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If you encourage your child to use the potty before going to bed and don’t offer drinks at night or during the hour before bedtime you’ll find that eventually you’ll have a series of dry nappies during the night and your nappy days will be well and truly over! For more information about potty training visit: www.emmasdiary.co.uk Written by Alison Mackonochie Alison is a well-respected and highly experienced writer and editor.The author of numerous books on pregnancy and early year’s childcare, Alison has worked with Lifecycle as editor-in-chief of Emma’s Diary for more than 20 years.

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

She Means Business... Why you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

Local mums Kate and Helen have combined their passion for food and nutrition to set up their own business providing UK's first monthly cooking kit for kids.Their mission is to teach kids to love cooking and eating healthy food! Each box is bursting with vibrant recipes, cooking utensils, science experiments, family dinner table games and more, guaranteed to deliver happy tummies and lots of family fun. Who you are and where do you live? My name is Kate Veale, mum to William 2 ½ and Alice 9 months. I live in Cookham with my children and husband Tim. We have only been back in the UK 2 years after living in Australia for 5 ½ years and feel very lucky to have landed in such a fabulous area

Kate: I have always worked in marketing and innovation and always had a hankering to set up my own business but also do something that would make a difference to people’s lives, not just to the share price of a big business. I’ve also always loved cooking and food. My maternal grandparents were both chefs and my paternal grandparents owned a garden nursery so I was brought up around a love of gardening (especially vegetable gardening) and cooking. When I moved back to the UK I was working 4 days a week and on my day off I always wanted to make the most of my time with William doing cooking or crafts but inevitably I never managed to get organized enough in the week to get everything I needed. I saw the subscription craft boxes and thought they were a brilliant idea and thought it would be great to do something similar with cooking but when I looked there was nothing on the market, hence the idea and setting up the business. I was then super lucky to meet Helen in August last year in Ockwells Park. She had a similar passion and a complimentary skill set and from the day we met we knew we just had to do it. Helen: I started my career in Government and always thought I’d try my hand at something else - a charity or think tank perhaps, but after 10 years I was still there! It was a fascinating and wonderful career, particularly my time in Cabinet Office/No.10, but my passion has always been in health and nutrition. My dad bought me a

book about the power of food as medicine when I was a teenager and that was what started it all off. When Artie was born in 2013 it became even clearer to me that one of the most important decisions we make on a daily basis is what we put into our bodies (and our children’s bodies). I started a 3 year nutrition course in 2015 and plucked up the courage to quit my job last year to pursue my passion in kids health and nutrition. Meeting Kate was beyond lucky - not only do we work fantastically well professionally, we have become great friends. What did you do before setting up your business? Kate: I am actually on maternity leave at the moment and will be going back to my old job 3 days a week in May as well as running the business. I have a brilliant job working in the Futures Team at Diageo. Our team basically looks at what we think the future will bring in terms of risks and opportunities for the business and then works out how we can innovate and adapt to take advantage of them. It’s fantastically interesting and very entrepreneurial in itself which I love. Helen: When I left last year I was Head of Strategy in DCLG, but part of the beauty of the Civil Service is that you get to move around and work on all manner of interesting policies. I spent some time working on homelessness policies, Treasury Spending Reviews, election planning, and spent a fascinating (and tiring!) couple of years in Cabinet Office/No.10 working for the Cabinet Secretary and

My name is Helen Burgess, mum to Artie who is 3 1/2 and now a very able sous chef. I grew up in the area and moved to London to go to university. We returned last year and it is lovely to be back! We live in Hedsor and have family in Maidenhead and Cookham.

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made in the kitchen be that cooking or around the dinner table. That’s why our kits not only focus on teaching kids to cook with our delicious healthy recipes but also encouraging families to sit down and eat together with games to play and table talk cards to spark interesting conversations. I know lots of mums like myself who either don’t have the time or sometimes the confidence to get in the kitchen with their kids, we hope that Little Cooks Co can overcome that and help a generation of kids to learn to love cooking and eating healthy food.

Head of the Civil Service. My friends and family were always very upset that I was sworn to secrecy and unable to divulge anything about working there! What inspired you to set up the business? Kate: see above, it was really a combination of my own experience of being a busy parent and not feeling I had the time to do the things I really wanted with my son on my limited days off, combined with my desire to help other mums give their kids the gift of learning to cook which I believe is one of the most important lifeskills we can give them. Teaching kids to cook has so many benefits from helping with fussy eating (did you know it’s proven that kids who cook eat more fruit and veg) to aiding development of core skills such as reading, arithmetic, science, fine motor skills etc. I also believe from my own experience that some of the best family memories are

Part Time Carers Wanted

Helen: I agree with everything Kate has said. For me, understanding the incredible power of food and sharing that with as many children and families as possible is one of my biggest motivators. There is no greater time in life when it is more important to eat nutrient dense natural food than in childhood - the rate of development and growth is phenomenal. Did you know that around 90% of the brain’s capacity develops before kids are 5 years old? Giving children nourishment that will support this growth - such as foods rich in essential fatty acids (omega 3 in oily fish) and choline (found in eggs) - is a no brainer (pun intended!). The rates of childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes are alarming and if Little Cooks Co can help support a shift away from this trend then I will be forever happy. What are your plans for the future? At the moment it’s such early days we are just excited about getting our boxes out there and seeing how people react to them. We have got lots of other ideas for how we can help make eating healthy food

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fun and easy for kids and families but we need to get this baby up and running first. Ultimately we want to be able to make a difference and if in future that meant getting into schools to help them with food education, or even teaming up with charities who help disadvantaged children get access to food education, we would be open to it. We are both just passionate about making a difference, after all what we feed our children and what we teach them about food will affect the rest of their lives. What would your advice be to other business women? If you have an idea or passion you want to pursue believe in yourself and just get started. We have learnt so much in the last 6 months and been overwhelmed by all the people willing to support and help us but it is definitely that first push to get going that is the hardest. Also don’t be afraid to fail, we have always said if this doesn’t work we will learn, pivot and try again. Also having a business partner helps, we couldn’t have done it alone. It’s crucial that you share the same vision, but aside from that we’ve found it a huge advantage that the skills and experience we bring to the partnership are different. We can challenge each other, analyse issues from different angles, and come up with solutions that we might not have been able to spot otherwise. Plus, setting up a business is a massive emotional roller-coaster and having someone to share that with makes the lows bearable and the highs even more brilliant! To subscribe or for more information visit www.littlecooksco.co.uk

Classifieds

Appleberry Care is looking for Carers to cover weekends, mornings and/or after school hours. You must have a car and be able to drive.

Work with children and young adults with disabilities (normally activity based care) and the elderly (home based care). Jobs are based in Maidenhead, Burnham, Slough, Windsor, Beaconsﬁeld, High Wycombe and surrounding areas.

Experience and references required. We can help with a DBS if you don’t have a portable one. Good rates of pay. Call 01628 662123 or email: admin@appleberrycare.co.uk for an application form or send your CV to Appleberry Care, 5 The Alders (in Parkgate) oﬀ Windsor Lane, Burnham, Bucks. SL1 7HN www.appleberrycare.co.uk We work towards Equalities Codes of Practice. CQC Registered Domiciliary Care Agency

editor@familiestveast.co.uk or call

01628 788058 Telephone: 01628 788058

MARCH/APRIL 2017

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

MARCH/APRIL 2017

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk