Families Thames Valley East July/Aug 2018 Issue 97

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H ME KE TA

EE FR E OM

Thames Valley East

IN THIS ISSUE

SUMMER FUN SPECIAL PLUS WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO PAULTONS PARK! RECRUITING NOW

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

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

please call Diana Page 01235 533362 07747 086518

Issue 97 July/August 2018

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REDROOFS

SCHOOL FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS ONSTAGE HOLIDAY WEEKS NOW IN THEIR 50TH YEAR! Redroofs, Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, SL6 3QY for children aged 5-14+ REVOLTING CHILDREN WEEK Monday 24th - Friday 28th July for ages 6-13+

THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH Monday 30th July - Friday 3rd August for ages 7-14+

STICK IT TO THE MAN Monday 6th - Friday 10th August for ages 7-14+

STICK MEN & MERMAIDS & BROOMSTICKS & SONG Monday 13th - Thursday 16th August for ages 5-10

MOANA, MERMAIDS AND MOWGLI MAGIC Monday 20th - Friday 24th August for ages 5-11+ The only Musical Theatre Course where children can enjoy a refreshing dip in a heated outdoor pool, beautiful country gardens and an on stage real theatre performance.

Wrap Around Care Available.

Call 01628 674092 • www.redroofs.co.uk or email: emayling@redroofs-school.co.uk

2 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

The Little Gym Windsor 31 William Street * SL4 1BB Windsor * 01753 968488 windsor@thelittlegym.eu * windsor.thelittlegym.eu www.facebook.com/thelittlegymwindsor

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In this issue...

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

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

3-7 News & Information

EDUCATION

8 Education News 9 How to seize the summer with Explore Learning 11 Changes to the 11+ tests 12 Preparing your child for School

PARENTING

13 The Parent who Stayed

SUMMER FUN

14-15 Local Summer Camps and Classes 16-19 How to fill the Summer holidays 20-21 Places to visit with children who have Special Needs or Disabilities 22 COMPETITIONS

23-27 WHAT’S ON

PARENTING

28 Starting school and Summer-born children 29 Flying with Three

30-31 SHE MEANS BUSINESS

www.familiesonline.co.uk E: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editors: Anna Collins and Rachel Bailey circulation: 19,500 next issue: Sept/Oct 2018 due out: September 3, featuring: Back to School

T: 01628 788058 copy/advertising deadline: July 20 Cover image: depositphotos.com

If your children are counting down the days to the summer holidays, but you’re wondering how you’re going to keep them occupied or you need some help with childcare, this issue we’ve got plenty of ideas to keep them busy. Check out our Summer Fun section from p.14. There’s also some tips on preparing your child for school in September on p.12 and Anna shares her thoughts on having an August baby on p.28. Plus, on p.22 we’re giving away a Family ticket for Go Ape in Black Park and Paultons Park, home of Peppa Pig. There are also 5 chances to win a summer camp with The Little Gym Windsor!

Happy holidays!

Young Living Essential Oils Launch Seedlings Baby Care Range over 140 different essential oils and blends, this is a company worth getting to know.

American company Young Living who champion greener living, has just launched its Seedlings baby care range in the UK, alongside its bath and beauty products for all the family, and green cleaning for the home. Young Living uses plant derived ingredients instead of the synthetic compounds found in so many toiletries: the nappy cream, baby oil, lotion and wipes are kind to delicate skin and to the environment.

Also new is the Savvy Minerals cruelty free make up range. With an extensive range of

For more information visit www.facebook.com/rosetreehouse or contact Julie Babis at therosetreehouse@gmail.com Julie is happy to demonstrate a selection of products for groups of 6+.

11+ Mock Tests

Thames Valley East

Slough Grammars (CEM 11+) To Advertise here call: 01628 788058

7th July 2018 (Saturday) 4th Aug 2018 (Saturday)

Time: 3.00pm – 5.00pm Time: 3.00pm – 5.00pm

Claycots School, Monksfield Way, Slough SL2 1QX. Fee: From £27.50 per paper including detailed feedback.

BOOK NOW - www.mocktestmasters.com

✔ Detailed feedback report on your child’s strengths & weaknesses ✔ Access to mock test questions and answers ✔ Answer sheets returned ✔ In excess of 20,000 pupils have taken our tests

twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE

Unlock your child’s potential with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4-18 year olds

Find out more today: ASCOT 01344 206466 stagecoach.co.uk/ascot BRACKNELL 0808 208 5134 stagecoach.co.uk/bracknell BRACKNELL NORTH (Warfield) 0808 208 5134 stagecoach.co.uk/bracknellnorth

HENLEY AND MARLOW 01494 533203 stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow HIGH WYCOMBE 01494 533203 stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe MAIDENHEAD 01628 281128 stagecoach.co.uk/maidenhead WINDSOR 0845 293 7207 stagecoach.co.uk/windsor

®

Creative Courage For Life

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News & Info Showstopper UK brings Musical Theatre to all through classes and parties

Meadowbrook School opens its countryside facilities to local nurseries and pre-schools

Showstopper Babies is the Original Musical Theatre music and multi-sensory classes for babies. From newborn through until first steps, and running currently in Maidenhead and Windsor, the classes provide a friendly vibrant atmosphere where babies learn and develop while parents also have lots of fun.

Original, brand new exciting songs mixed with well known broadway show hits, makes for a very different class with much to love.

Showstopper Parties offers Drama, Dance and Singing parties for children of all ages. From Jungle book and Teddy Bears' Picnic first birthday parties, to Superhero and Princess & Pirate for ages 3-6 and Mini Musicals or Perfect Popstar for 7+ there are themes to suit everyone.

"Showstopper Parties were excellent and had all the children captivated" Kat Luxton Visit www.showstopperuk.com for more information on class times and party themes.

Meadowbrook School in Warfield has announced forthcoming improvements to its outdoor learning areas will be open to younger members of the community who may not be able to enjoy such outside space in their early years setting. ‘’We are lucky enough to have 6 acres of meadow grounds which gives our children many opportunities to engage with nature, but are now adding in outdoor learning areas and more.

Plans include a ‘forest school’, fire pit, and chickens to be cared for by the pupils’ Chicken Management Group” said Serena Gunn, Director of Education. “We want to welcome local nurseries and pre-schools in particular, to enjoy these outdoor

facilities and build closer links with our community.’’ added Serena.

Meadowbrook is a wellrespected Independent Primary school for ages 4-11, known for its small class sizes which combine Montessori-based practice with the National Curriculum, creating an inspiring learning environment which educates, nurtures and values every child. As a recent review noted: ‘’The end result? A bunch of happy, inspired, nurtured and ambitious kids who want to reach their potential.’’

If you’d like to discuss the opportunities to use the facilities or wish to visit, contact: Meadowbrook School on: 01344 890869 or email: admin@meadowbrook.uk

Creating quality time for all the family

At Summerlea we understand how important your little ones are and how precious your home is. We understand why you cannot start your day until you know they are in safe hands.

SERVICES WE OFFER

Nannies • Live in Staff • Housekeepers • Seasonal Childcare First Aid Courses • Payroll and Pensions • Enhanced DBS checks

www.summerlea.co.uk

01344 550 465 or email hello@summerlea.co.uk

4 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

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Tree top adventures at Go Ape Black Park If you’re looking for adventure this summer, Go Ape at Black Park offers the perfect opportunity for the whole family to get out and enjoy the outdoors. We went along with our tribe on the very sunny May Day bank holiday weekend and gave both Nets Kingdom and the Junior tree top course a go.

Exclusive to Black Park, Nets Kingdom complete with walkways between tree houses, trampoline like nets and slides is definitely a fun way to fill a couple of hours. A workout for adults – think soft play in the trees! – it’s suitable for anyone over 1 year, though given the bouncy nature of the nets, it might suit the slightly more adventurous toddler (especially in the school holidays when it’s popular with larger kids).

I got both 3 year old twins up, but whilst one loved it, the other preferred to bounce around nearer the ground! The area below however is all enclosed with picnic tables and t a small café so a good hangout for a non paying adult to wait with anyone who prefers not to climb for the whole 2 hours.

t

W

WINDSOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL

M

Established in 1980

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Where children are motivated to learn independently

A UNIQUE, AUTHENTIC MONTESSORI EDUCATION THROUGH THE SCHOOL & NURSERY

The Tree top junior course is an adaptation of the original high ropes tree top adventure, negotiating obstacles and zip wires and is for anyone over 1 metre (minimum age requirement on the full course is 10 years). There are 2 different courses to explore and you can go round the course as many times as you like within an hour. Everyone has to start with the easier loop and then there’s a more difficult option plus an extra add on for those after an additional challenge. Our 7 year olds loved it (as did their dads!).

Don’t forget to check out our competition to win a family ticket for Go Ape on p. 22! www.goape.co.uk Theatre Arts Sewing Film Making Sports 3D Art activities Team challenges Educational visits Animation Cooking

WINDSOR MONTESSORI o SCHOOL Recent Ofsted inspection:

WINDSOR MONTESSORI HOUSE OF CHILDREN

OUTSTANDING in all areas NO 4 DATCHET ROAD

HOME PARK, ROMNEY LOCK ROAD, WINDSOR SL4 6HX

(OPPOSITE THE WINDSOR FARM SHOP)

OLD WINDSOR SL4 2RQ

01753 830525

01753 868399

• 6 months to 6 years.

• 2 years to 9 years.

• 3 year nursery funded children accepted.

• We also welcome home school learners. www.windsormontessorischool.co.uk

Providing care and education within a loving nurturing environment.

• Baby and toddler parent sessions to include four free settling in sessions, prior to start.

E

www.windsormontessorihouseofchildren.co.uk

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

Creative Holiday Camps 3-14 years

9 July 22 Oct2 -10 Aug Nov

Windsor

ouse use School Upton House BOOK NOW 07952 418 212 familiesonline.co.uk

‘T H E

CONSCIOUS CHILDCARE

Email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk • Tel: 01628 788058

www.busybuttons.org

O P T I O N’

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News & Info Soft Play with a difference in central Windsor!

As Muddy Stilettos put it “if sex and the city did soft play, The Jelly Lounge would be it. It is a cool kid play centre with great food, damn good coffee and gin” The Jelly Lounge was created by two mums who believe that families should be better looked after and wanted to create a place which is fun and full of creativity, with a damn good cup of coffee.

The ever so popular restaurant serves local produce and their food is freshly prepared daily.

Jenny and Tamar co-owners said “We want families to be able to enjoy their time together where fresh food is served in an environment which is not just a soft play or just a restaurant, it is everything combined together, adults can enjoy their time as much as the children.”

They also host birthday parties in their industrial style party rooms, suitable for all budgets and party size. Workshops, holiday camps and evening events are part of the package. Follow them on Facebook @thejellylounge or www.thejellylounge.co.uk

• Children’s feet grow in fits and starts, so it’s important to have them measured by a professional shoe fitter every 8-12 weeks.

They will measure your child’s feet from the tip of their longest toe to the back of their heel and across the widest part of the foot.

• You can check the fit of your child’s shoes in between professional fittings.

Check the position of your child's toes on the insole of the shoe - there should always be a gap between the position of the imprint and the end of the insole.

• Be alert for blisters, rubbing, collapsed heel cup of the shoe, the ability to take off the school shoes without undoing them, poor posture or a rolling gait, reluctance to wear shoes or refusing to wear socks. All signs current shoes are not fitting properly.

• For new school shoes, a supportive heel cup is very important. If the heel leans to one side or the other, pain and postural problems could arise. Try pressing on the

sides of the heel - if it sinks in easily, the shoe is not providing sufficient support.

• The shoe should have a strap, velcro or laces to prevent the shoe from slipping forward and scrunching your child’s toes.

The shoe sole should be flexible at the ball of the foot only and the shoes should have a supportive instep. You should feel a small bump inside the shoe where the arch of your child's foot would sit.

• Shoe material should be breathable and have a natural resistance to water, like leather or have a waterproof tex membrane.

If your child’s feet can’t breathe, smelly feet and fungal infections can result.

• Socks help to absorb sweat and can prevent damage to the feet caused by friction as your child runs and plays. Bring school socks to the fitting.

g in 3 in r j o ea w s- Y to 1 no ar le 1 s Ye a b g e oy ly e l a *B E a r i l l b n t i u in w ay st

Top tips for school shoe fitting

IAPS Preparatory Day School for Boys and girls 3-11

How hig h ca n y ou r chil d f ly?

35 Eton Road Datchet Berkshire SL3 9AX 01753 541075 • admin@etonend.org

www.etonend.org

Tips by: www.thechildrensshoecompany.co.uk

we love school feet! “

Have lasted and lasted.

Really hardwearing and still look smart after extensive use!

”

“ All in all fab staff, fab shoes and fab value for money (a very happy mummy!) ” “ You always give loads of time

and energy to us when we are buying shoes. It’s a very pleasant experience EVERY time!

”

Come and see us at 14 oxford road, Marlow or visit www.thechildrensshoecompany.co.uk 6 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

We have many styles of school shoes in black, brown and navy in a huge range of sizes from child 7 to adult 8 familiesonline.co.uk

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News & Info New for 2018 at the Legoland® Windsor Resort

A Guinness World Record Attempt for the Royal Wedding News of The Royal Wedding had the creative duo and founders, Louella and Lautaro Fernandez-Lempiänen of Busy Buttons Design Centre CIC come up with the idea to attempt to make the world’s longest card as a community wedding gift for Prince Harry and the Duchess of Sussex.

“What started as an idea of offering a workshop where each individual can send a message congratulating the royal couple grew into a ginormous card made of 1000s of individual cards. We therefore decided to make a Guinness World Records™ attempt for the title of the longest concertina folded card in the world.”

The design for the card depicted the couple’s first journey together through Windsor as husband and wife and all 10 illustrations were done by 8 year old Leon Fernandez-Lempiäinen who worked very hard to complete the designs in a week’s time. This selffunded community project, was offered free to several state and private schools besides; special needs organisations, senior citizens groups, tourists, local families, community service providers like the army, police,

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post office, businesses, restaurants and participants in the US, Canada, India besides several other commonwealth countries.

The Busy Buttons Youth ambassadors had the unique opportunity of assisting in bringing this project to light alongside PTA volunteers and dedicated staff. According to Louella “This piece of paper has unified people from diverse backgrounds, abilities, ages, beliefs and dominations to make a heartfelt ‘world community-spirited gift’ inspired by what the royal couple mean to so many. The response has been immense all along but was overwhelming on the Royal Wedding Day.” The final results of the big count will be officially announced by Guinness World Records™. To present the card, a wooden box will be specially designed to enable the royal couple to read all the messages as well as safely archive their unique, record making wedding gift from 1000s of well wishers. To donate or sponsor this project email: contactbusybuttons@gmail.com or call: 07952 418 212/ 0800 101 8332 www.busybuttons.org

A recent trip to Legoland® meant we were able to explore some of the new attractions for 2018.

Look out for the Ninjago 4D movie. Our kids loved it and you could see them literally reach out to be part of this drama. Johan (9) said “There were so just so many dimensions to it!” Real water was also targeted at the audience for an extra thrill.

There is also the new Lego® Reef, where you can create your own fish and then watch them swim around on a huge screen.

Our children love fish, so this was a lovely attraction, where the whole family can get involved

Email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk • Tel: 01628 788058

and see their own creation come to life!

Look out for the new Miniland USA and features such as The Golden Gate Bridge and Miniland Explore the World where you can visit The Taj Mahal and the Sydney Opera House. We were really pleased that James and Jonah (both 7) new many of the landmarks - a great educational experience. We also love that Miniland embraced the Royal Wedding with a brand new 39,960 LEGO® brick Windsor Castle and the birth of Prince Louis.

Visit www.legoland.co.uk

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Meadowbrook School’s Innovative Montessori Parent & Toddler Sessions Move to Marlow.

Education News Windsor-based Upton House School celebrate Royal Wedding in style To celebrate the royal wedding, children and staff from Upton House School were dressed in royal costumes with lots of red, white and blue. A royal picnic was held on the school lawn and children pedalled fast on a fabulous ‘smoothie bike’ to make their own smoothies thanks to Holroyd Howe, the school catering team. There was also a royal jigsaw challenge where children completed 3 one-thousand piece royal jigsaws in record time. The school building was decorated with the children’s beautiful royal artwork including bunting which was displayed on the barriers on the Long Walk on the day of the wedding itself. Children aged 2-11 years also took part in the World record attempt to help make the World’s longest folded wedding card for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, run by Busy Buttons

Design Centre CIC. The card was gifted to the royal couple for their wedding, but the resultant length of the card is still to be announced.

Mrs Rhian Thornton, Headmistress commented, “We were delighted to celebrate the wedding of Harry and Meghan at Upton House School Windsor. We are right in the heart of Windsor just a 2 min walk from the castle and The Long Walk so we were in the centre of all the celebrations. It was a delightful day for all the children and staff.” www.uptonhouse.org.uk

Focus on Children of The World Montessori School Children of The World Montessori School focus on education and play within a caring and happy environment from 6 months to 5 years. A well resourced school with a large astroturf garden and tarmac area for bikes and cars. 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 the Montessori materials including 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 Class from 6 months to 18 months and Toddler class from 18 months to 21⁄2 years. The children then move into the main school from 21⁄2 years to 5 years. Cheryl Clay and Alexis Hall are both Montessori teachers who own, manage and teach within the school along with other Montessori teachers and teaching assistants.

Call: 01753 833771 Email: mail@cotwmontessori.co.uk Web: www.cotwmontessori.co.uk

8 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

For 28 years, Meadowbrook School in Warfield has led the way in progressive Montessori-based education for children aged 18 months to 11 years. It is now bringing its well-established Parent & Toddler sessions to central Marlow. Starting in September at the Christ Church building in Oxford Road, Marlow, these weekly 2 hour sessions (run by fully qualified Montessori teachers and overseen by Director of Education Serena Gunn) will be available over 5 mornings, offering a welcome alternative to the existing provision. Limited to just 12 places, the emphasis of these unique sessions is on independence by providing toddlers with a carefully planned child-sized and developmentally appropriate environment. For parents/carers, the sessions will provide a wonderful opportunity to learn about Montessori’s principles and how to apply them. They will learn about child development, how to enable their child to flourish, and increase awareness of their child’s capabilities, as well as to mix and share. By having this special time each week without the interruptions usually experienced at home parents will also be able to forge even closer relationships with their toddlers. Meadowbrook will be offering 3 different types of sessions from its Marlow venue: Meadowbrook’s Parent & Toddlers: for 15 months to 2 ½ years old Meadowbrook’s Pre-schoolers & Parents: A more advanced session for 2 ½ to 3 ½ years old Meadowbrook’s Parents Only Sessions: These education sessions will focus on a range of topics including: Montessori in the Home and Raising Children through Positive Discipline. Discussion forums will also be run as part of the programme. For information on dates and times visit: www.meadowbrook.uk

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Education

How to seize the summer with Explore Learning The summer holidays are a great time for families to spend time together. However, it can also be a time when children forget some of the skills they have mastered at school.

M

iss Evans, a year 6 teacher, stated “Teachers often find that children begin the new school year having forgotten key skills. It is important that children have opportunities over the summer break to continue to develop their abilities.”

Here are some ideas from Charlotte Gater, Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning, on how to seize the summer: Start a blog Give your child a little note book to jots ideas down whilst you are out and about, then write up what you’ve done. Take lots of pictures as these are a great tool to help children who find writing tricky.

Encourage them to describe what is happening in the picture to get their creativity flowing.

the holidays. If your child is reluctant to write, then why not try a postcard app like ‘By Post’? They can take their own pictures to make into postcards and type their message.

with your child to help keep them engaged with what they are reading. Visit explorelearning.co.uk/summer to find out more and download your first activity!

Send a postcard Let your friends and family know what you’ve been up to. They’re only short so are a wonderful way to get a bit of writing going during

Read, read and read some more Pop a book in your bag so you can use this when travelling on days out. We will be uploading weekly activities that you can complete

Play some games These are great for so many reasons, from developing language to improving memory skills. Need some new games? Have a

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scavenger hunt in local charity shops to see who in the family can find the best game.

Tuition To keep your children progressing over the summer, a tuition centre is a great option. Prevent the battle ground of getting children to do work at home and get them along to a tuition centre where there are lots of other children getting involved. Explore Learning offers free taster sessions, so get in touch today by calling 033 01243802.

Explore Learning was voted number one private tuition centre in the UK. With over 137 centres nationwide, Since 2001, they have helped over 200,000 children aged four to 14 to achieve their potential. They get to know every child as an individual, giving them the space to unlock their imagination and discover the magic of learning.

Explore Learning is offering a saving of £50 to the first 65 members who join between 11th July– 11th August 2018.

Visit explorelearning.co.uk/offer T&Cs apply.

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Education

Changes to the 11+ tests What are they and how can you prepare your child?

By Susan Daughtrey Education

I

n September, GL Assessment 11+ tests replace the CEM 11+ tests for The Buckinghamshire Grammar Schools (TBGS). GL Assessment have been awarded a five-year contract.

Following publication of guidance in November last year, TBGS and GL Assessment have now made available a Familiarisation Booklet for students preparing for the new tests this September. It is now possible to say, with a greater degree of confidence, what the new tests are expected to entail.

There will be two tests separated by a short break. Test 1 is a verbal reasoning test and Test 2, a non-verbal reasoning and maths test. Both tests will be multiple choice and will be administered using a pre-recorded audio track which will read out the instructions and examples and time the individual sections of the test.

reasoning questions may evolve from year to year.

Test 1 is worth 50% of the total mark. Within Test 1, we expect that the English questions (comprehension, cloze and proof reading) will carry slightly more weight than the verbal reasoning.

question. For example, there could be a section with series questions and another section with matrices questions and so on. We expect roughly four sections in total. At least one of the sections (and probably two) will test spatial reasoning, for example 3D cubes, nets, 3D blocks and hidden shapes. The NVR/spatial part of the test is worth 50% of Test 2 or 25% of the overall total mark.

The second part of Test 2 focuses on maths and is expected to test a broad range of Key Stage 2 maths topics. This will be one long timed section lasting 25 minutes. In our experience (and looking at the Familiarisation Booklet and the published GL Assessment maths practice materials), GL tend to opt for a ‘one question, one mark’ format with no inter-relation between the questions. This is unlike the ‘long maths’ which often appeared on the old Bucks CEM 11+ tests, where information was provided at the top of a page and then a series of up to four, often difficult, ‘problem’ questions appeared lower down the page. GL Assessment do not tend to use this format. As a generalisation, it is probably fair to say that GL Assessment maths is a bit easier than the old CEM maths – good news if your child struggles with their maths. The broadening of the range of skills tested (to include proof reading, processing based verbal reasoning and spatial reasoning) and the reduced emphasis on vocabulary knowledge and excessive speed as a measure of intelligence, are all positive developments. The improved layout of the answer sheets, with the answers written into the answer sheet where feasible (rather than references to A, B, C, D or E etc.), the reduction in the number of separately timed sections and the introduction of practice questions (that do not count towards the final mark) are also to be welcomed. No 11+ test is perfect but, overall, we expect these new tests will lead to a fairer outcome for students.

Parents who would like their child to practice the new format of test should consider booking some GL-style 11+ Mock Exams, such as those organised by Susan Daughtrey Education which are available in Aylesbury, Beaconsfield, Chalfont St. Peter, High Wycombe and Slough. www.susandaughtreyeducation.com

Test 2 – Non-Verbal Reasoning and Maths The Non-Verbal Reasoning will be split into several separately timed sections. We are expecting the sections to be about 5 minutes long and to contain roughly 8 questions each. Each section is likely to contain only one type of NVR

Test 1 – Verbal Reasoning The Verbal Reasoning test is better thought of as an English and Verbal Reasoning test. The first part of this test is expected to assess English comprehension, cloze and proof reading (identifying spelling and punctuation mistakes in English text). The second part of the test will assess verbal reasoning skills. Looking at the Familiarisation Booklet, it would appear that the verbal reasoning has been drawn from the ‘21 Types’ of verbal reasoning question that typically appear on GL Assessment verbal reasoning tests.

It should be noted, however, that the guidance published by TBGS states that the verbal

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Preparing Your Child for School If your child is starting school in September, you may be wondering how best to prepare them for this big new adventure!

F

irstly, don’t worry if they can’t read a word or write their own name. The ability to interact, communicate and exercise a degree of independence is actually far more important than reading or writing skills when a child starts school. In fact, research shows a link between strong personal, social and emotional skills in Reception and higher levels of attainment in the future. So if you want to strengthen your child’s skills in these areas, here are some tips.

Independence The aim is for children to be responsible for themselves, their belongings and their actions at

school. Help your child learn to get dressed, put on their coats/shoes, go to the toilet, tidy away toys and select their own activity resources.

Communication and Language Research demonstrates that competent speakers develop into competent readers and writers; without competent spoken language, learning to read and write is more difficult. Language allows children to interact with the world.

Being able to communicate their message effectively is satisfying and develops their esteem and self-confidence. Model good spoken language, with correct pronunciation of sounds, and

encourage your child to speak in full sentences using an expanding vocabulary. Talk to your child about their experiences and feelings throughout the day and develop a positive ethos around the importance of communicating and expressing feelings, of any kind. This will have multiple benefits (including knowing how your child is really feeling and maintaining an open and trusting rapport), both now and in the future.

Sharing and Interaction The more opportunities your child gets to interact and learn how to share and take turns, the less of a shock it will be when he or she starts school! However, expect this to be an on-going process. Allow your child lots of opportunities to play with siblings and organise lots of play dates. If disagreements occur between children, talk to them about how to resolve issues, modelling language and behaviour which gives them strategies and words to prevent or resolve disagreements in the future.

Respect for Behavioural Boundaries At school, behavioural expectations and boundaries are likely to include: • Listening the first time they are asked to pay attention • Keeping hands/feet to themselves • Sharing and taking turns • Looking after things • Tidying away • Being kind to others You can reinforce these expectations at home by teaching children to respect themselves, their actions and the feelings of others.

Physical (Gross and Fine Motor Skills) All activities require some sort of physicality, whether it be large (gross) or small (fine) movements.

Gross motor skills are developed when hopping, skipping, running,

12 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

jumping, galloping, balancing, pedalling a bike, using a scooter, climbing, throwing, catching, and kicking a ball. Varying the speed and direction of movement activities also develops spatial awareness.

Your child can have fun developing fine motor skills at home with every day activities such as using pegs and scissors, bead threading, button fastening, moulding play-dough, and painting.

Exploring and Investigating Often the most effective learning occurs when a child is left to his own devices, without nicely-prepared resources and prescriptive instructions about how to do something. Make a conscious effort to step back and allow your child the opportunity to use his initiative and develop his creative, imaginative and innovative skills through exploring, investigating and initiating his own learning. Children learn by exploring, trying out and adapting ideas for themselves and taking ownership. Present your child with a large cardboard box (and the opportunity to access other resources/toys). See what he or she does with it. In the latter stages of his or her ‘creation’ you may wish to step in to play too, but allow your child to initiate the direction of the play and conversation.

All the above skills can be naturally weaved into your everyday lives.

Enjoy and treasure these precious last few months with your child at home, and keep the above tips in mind to promote a positive start to your child’s school life.

Sarah McKinlay is a mother and school teacher with qualifications in psychology and can provide support and strategies to give your child a happy transition to school. For more information, visit www.bounceparental.co.uk

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Budget for treats for yourself (a babysitter counts!) and carve out time to do the things that make you feel good. Get a haircut. Paint your nails. Replace the jeans you have been wearing for too long and invest in your own wellbeing. Self-care is essential when you are the one person your children can rely on day-to-day.

The Parent Who Stayed

By Nina Farr Life as a single parent can be tough at the beginning. Moving on from life with your child’s other parent means moving into life on your own terms. But that’s not easy when you still have to focus on your children day to day.

I’ve been a lone parent to a toddler and a baby, and I’ve worked with over a hundred other women parenting alone too. I’ve learned a lot about how to find your equilibrium when you start over as a single mum and I’d like to share some of my experiences with you.

Lone Parenting isn’t Lonely At least, it doesn’t have to be. It may be scary and sad when you say goodbye to the dream of a two parent home, but just because you don’t live with your co-parent doesn’t mean they won’t or can’t help. A lot of the positives of co-parenting require your willingness to work together and be supportive of each other’s needs and desires for your children.

Even if your co-parent is mostly absent, or needs to have their contact limited for some reason, you can build an amazing network of peers and friends who can support and help you out. Try joining www.gingerbread.org and looking for your local single parent group. If there isn’t one nearby, check out your children’s centre and local playroups, or enrol your children in some clubs or activities. This will broaden your social circle.

1 in 4 Families in the UK are Headed by a Single Parent That’s a quarter of the parents on the school run or at your local stay and play. You’re by no means on your own so don’t let feelings of anxiety or guilt about being a single parent knock your confidence.

One of the hardest things about being the only adult at home is feeling isolated from other adults. Reach out and say hello to the parents you meet day-to-day. Chances are, at least some of them will be a lone parent just like you and even those who aren’t can be a fantastic addition to your network. They are familiesonline.co.uk

more able to pop round and see you after the kids go to bed, or offer to babysit now and then.

Don’t worry about being judged by other parents. Everyone else is too busy thinking about their own worries to be spending their time judging you!

Feeling Low is Okay Family breakdown can be messy, miserable and time-consuming. To move through it without feeling anything negative at all would be extraordinary.

Coming back to your yourself and discovering who you are outside of such an important and life changing relationship takes time, but it doesn’t take forever. Remind yourself that a little space and energy reserved for yourself is vital right now and will pay dividends almost immediately.

Claim Leadership of your Family When you become a sole primary carer for your family, you take on a leadership role, but you have to step up and claim it.

You are the budget holder, the navigator, the captain of your ship. It can be a liberating and exciting transition, despite being a little overwhelming at the start! While there may be a lot to learn, you only need to answer to yourself (and your children’s needs). Try not to panic and avoid deferring to the judgements of other people. They are not living in your home with your children.

There will be a lot of people on hand offering you advice or well- intended suggestions as to how you should move forward - from the friend signing you up to online dating to your own parents standing in the wings. Listen and consider their input, but let go of anything that doesn’t feel right.

Permission to Grieve You, your children and your ex will all be sad sometimes. Allow sadness and anger space to exist. Grief is an essential part of human experience. You are all letting go of something that once upon a time was incredibly valuable.

Just because you know it’s for the best doesn’t mean you will always feel like it is. Be gentle with yourself and respectful of other people’s grieving processes. They don’t need to get over it in the same way or at the same pace as you do, or vice versa.

If you need some support or companionship as you move forward, you can find this at www.ninafarr.com

Living TENNIS offer • Private Lessons • Adult Group Coaching • Junior Coaching • Holiday Camps Venues throughout the Maidenhead area include the prestigious Bisham Abbey NSC, St Piran's School and The Magnet

www.livingtennis.co.uk info@livingtennis.co.uk 01628 487 775

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Summer Fun Holiday Camps & Classes Part 2...

Wondering how to fill the summer? Here’s a reminder of our pick of local children’s camps and activities.

Details correct at time of going to press (June 2018) but may be subject to change.

Amanda’s Art Classes for small groups of children aged 6-13. Amanda will be running Summer art workshops in Ascot from 10-12am and 2-4pm; call 01344 885086 or 0796 882 4560 or email a.kavanagh@amandasart.co.uk for further details. www.amandasart.co.uk Artspiration will be offering four day Summer holiday workshops, Art Scout Juniors at various locations in Berkshire. Suitable for children aged 6-12 years, packed with Art and Craft.

Children will get to work with mosaics, print making, mod roc, plaster casting, pencil shading, water colours, soft pastels, etc. These workshops are led by Artspiration teachers, who are all artists and well experienced with working with children. They are also offering a 10% discount if you refer a friend. Register your interest now as places are limited. For more details go to www.artspiration.co.uk or email artspirationinfo@gmail.com They also offer day workshops for older artists ages 12-16 years.

Look out for their adult sessions coming in the Autumn Blossom Ballet is offering a free taster class for children aged 18 months to 10 years this summer. Please email Miss Lucy at lucy@blossomballet.com or call 0781 308 4283 for more details and to book a place. www.blossomballet.com Bray Lake Watersports are offering their ever-popular school holiday activities again this year. With a variety of 1, 2 and 5 day courses running weekdays from 9.30am-5pm your child can learn to kayak, canoe, stand up paddleboard, dinghy sail and windsurf. Work towards one sport alone or gain essential skills in a variety of sports. Courses are suitable for 8-15 years with sibling discounts available.

Course price include wetsuits, buoyancy aids and 5-day courses include relevant RYA and BCU log-books and certificates. Day courses: £59, 5-day courses: £270 info@braylake.com 01628 638860; www.braylake.com Busy Buttons Creative & Sporty Camp offers 3 -14 year olds ‘The Conscious Childcare Option', while having fun learning and using digital as well as traditional media, model making sets, props, puppets, costumes, executing design concepts from 2D to 3D, and learning to animate, sculpt, sew, etc whilst being tutored by experienced film and television professionals. Educational day trips, competitions, team building, confidence boosting challenges, fitness and customised insights by professionals give children a diverse experience. The Ofsted Approved camp is held at Upton House School, Windsor from 9 July 10 August followed by Activity Days at Busy Buttons Design Centre. Camp: 8:30am - 4pm

(extended hours 8am - 6pm) Childcare vouchers accepted. RBWM Advantage Card discount 0795 241 8212 / 0800 101 8332 www.busybuttons.org Delgado Tennis holidays are open to children aged 4+ and welcome all abilities. They run active sessions guaranteed to be lots of fun for all. Holiday camps run at St Piran's school throughout the year during all holidays.

Summer holidays: 7 Weeks, starting wc 16th July - wc 27th August. Bookings are now open, contact 01628 487775 or visit the website: www.livingtennis.co.uk/stpiransholidaybooking Ezee Swim. Swimming lessons for children of all ages and abilities.Learn to swim the eZee way. Classes run in Holyport, Maidenhead during school holidays as well as term-time.

Contact info@ezeeswim.co.uk 07766 258279 or visit www.ezeeswim.co.uk Hands-On Art Adventures in Old Windsor: creativity for all ages & abilities. Pop-in anytime to decorate their wide range of ceramics with paint, decopatch or foam clay.

EXTRA Holiday Activities: Clay, Canvas Painting & Story workshops + Potter's Wheel Experiences. Free Parking! For more details please contact Janet: Tel. 01753 206 265 email: office@hands-onart.co.uk www.hands-onartadventures.co.uk Jump In Trampoline Park Slough and Wise Owls have teamed up to create fun filled Holiday Activity Camps from 9am-5pm during the Summer holidays! Running from Jump in trampoline arena, Slough. They provide challenging and fun activities for children aged 5-12 years old with a number of sports, play and craft activities. The children are cared for by their friendly, qualified and caring team.

There will be 2 hours of jumping every day along with a variety of games and activities for all ages. Ofsted Approved. £25 for a whole day of supervised fun! Childcare vouchers accepted. Register and book via www.wiseowlschildcare.co.uk Liquid Leisure The Kids Cable Club runs Saturday and Sunday mornings between 9am & 12pm. Beginner Boat & Cable Courses are suitable for first time waterskiers or wakeboarders from 5 years old. Set on a freshwater private lake, the waterpark also features an Aqua Park suitable for 6 years plus, beach area, open swimming (6 years plus) and a licensed café bar. Visit www.liquidleisure.com email info@liquidleisure.com or call 01753 542 500.

Longridge, Marlow Holiday Activity Days are for young people between the ages of 8 and 14 who are looking to explore some adventurous activities and get active during the school

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holidays. Four of their adventurous activities throughout the day and a packed lunch, all for just £40. Drop them off at 8.45am and pick them up at 5pm – booking available online or through the bookings team. They also offer residential Ultimate Sleepovers for your young person aged 10-14 to attend by themselves to build their independence and self respect. See website for more details. Longridge is a recognised child care provider, so if you wish to pay using childcare vouchers then please contact their bookings team on bookings@alfcharity.org or 033 0303 0101. www.adventurelearning.org.uk Magnet Leisure Centre - Camp Adventure Holiday Activities entertain children age 5 -12 yrs with a large range of activities which enable them to try, learn & explore. No two days are the same. Their aim is for all children to have the best time possible in a safe & secure environment. Activities include - Reptile show, Pizza making, Chocolate party, Glow in the dark Roller disco, bouncy castles, circus skills, trampolining, scavenger hunts, cinema trips & much more. Please call 01628 685316 for more information or email jonny.walker@legacyleisure.org.uk Phoenix Gymnastics Club will be holding their popular daily summer camps Summersaults throughout the holidays for 5-12 year olds, members and non members. Have fun and be taught gymnastics by their British Gymnastics qualified coaches and enjoy the experience in their fully equipped gym with sprung floor, beam, bars and vaults. Visit www.phoenixgym.co.uk for all the information, email info@phoenixgym.co.uk or call 01628 778 881 to book a place Phoenix Trampoline Club will be holding their Just Bounce summer classes at East Berkshire College, Langley throughout the holidays. Visit www.phoenixgym.co.uk for all the information, email trampolining@phoenixgym.co.uk or call 01628 778 881 to find out more and book a place. Available for members and non-members Playball Camps in Windsor. Are you looking for something active for your kids to do during the summer holidays? Why not consider Playball. An all-encompassing sports holiday camp, full of fun-filled games, skills and drills.

The camps cater for a mixture of ages from 38 and encourage social interaction and nonstop fun. Camps start at 10:00 and run through to 13:00. Venue: Windsor Youth Centre SL4 3HD. Initial dates released: 30th and 31st July. Look out for more. Contact them on windsor@playballkids.com to find out more details or visit: www.playballkids.com Redroofs School for the Performing Arts is running onstage holiday weeks at their school in Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, SL6 3QY, for children aged 5-14+. Revolting Children Week, Monday 24th - Friday 27th July for ages 6-13+ years. The Greatest Show on Earth, Monday 30th July - Friday 3rd August for ages 7-14+ years. 'Stick it to the Man' School of Rock,

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Summer Fun Monday 6th - Friday 10th August for ages 7-14+ years. Stick Men and Mermaids and Broomsticks and Song, Monday 13th Thursday 16th August for ages 5-10 years.

Moana, Mermaids and Mowgli Magi, Monday 20th - Friday 24th August for ages 5-11+ years.

The only Musical Theatre courses where children can enjoy a refreshing dip in a heated outdoor pool, beautiful gardens and an onstage real theatre experience. £245.00. Call 01628 674092; www.redroofs.co.uk or email emayling@redroofs-school.co.uk Seriously Fun Swimming Schools are running Summer Holiday 5 day intensive course swimming lessons at St Piran's School in Maidenhead and Aylesbury Grammar School in Aylesbury for children aged 3 to 12 years for just £80 per child. Mon 30th July to Fri 3rd August. Book online at www.seriouslyfun.net or call 01753 364 364.

Shiplake College offer week long summer training camps for novice and improving rowers in Henley-on-Thames. Headed up by Shiplake College Director of Rowing and current Junior GB Coach David Currie, the courses are open to all, aged 13-18. Expert coaching ensures all participants are able to significantly develop their skills and techniques.

Daily sessions from 10am with races each Friday afternoon. For residential campers there will be a programme of evening events after dinner, such as local trips, barbecues and pool parties. Week 1: Monday 30 July - Friday 3 Aug (non-residential). Week 2: Monday 6 - Friday 10 Aug (residential and non-residential options).

Visit: www.shiplake.org.uk/rowingcamps or email rowingcamps@shiplake.org.uk Showstopper Babies is the Original Musical Theatre music and multi-sensory classes for babies from newborn up to walking. Running right through the summer: Monday afternoons at St Peter's Church, Maidenhead and Friday mornings at Windsor Baptist Church.

NEW toddler & preschool Musical Theatre

classes will be starting very soon.

Visit www.showstopperbabies.com for more information or call Mairi on 07885150034 Stagecoach High Wycombe, Henley and Marlow will be holding holiday workshops at Wycombe High School, Marlow Hill, High Wycombe, from Monday 30th July - Friday 3rd August inclusive. A Show in a Week! (4-6yrs), 9.30am-12.30pm, £95, sibling £80. This 5-day workshop is perfect for budding young performers. A Show in a Week! (6-16yrs), 9.15am-4.15pm, £50 deposit, £160, sibling £125. Make new friends, learn new skills and gain confidence. Workshops are open to all.

There are limited spaces available, so advisable to book now. www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe or email highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk The Jelly Lounge is a chef-led family friendly restaurant with soft play. Located in the heart of Windsor, it hosts activities from birthday parties, Baby Yoga, mini chef’s, music, arts and holiday camps. Follow them @thejellylounge and www.thejellylounge.co.uk to discover more.

The Little Gym Windsor offers an amazing variety of fun camps for 3-12 year olds. Daily summer camps combine gymnastics, sports, and arts and crafts to get your little one moving and unleash their creativity. Super Kid Quest Camps (3-8 years) run Monday to Friday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. Families are free to book just one or every day of the summer! Skill Thrill camps (6-12 years) run on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Each camp is 3 hours long and lots of healthy snacks are provided. Flexible scheduling is available to meet the family juggle! Book 5 and get your 6th camp free! Members and non-members welcome. Call 01753 968488 to book www.windsor.thelittlegym.eu Don’t forget to enter our competition to win a camp on p.22!

Twinkle Tots Ballet summer schools are being

held again from the 23-27th July at Sunningdale Village Hall, Church Rd, Sunningdale, Berks SL5 0NJ This year’s theme: Peter Rabbit and Friends. Join Miss Katherine for a fun filled week of dancing, suitable for age 2 and upwards. With a daily ballet class, Peter Rabbit themed arts and crafts, modern dance for the older group and then help create your own ballet show to perform on the Friday to friends and family! 2-4 year olds cost £40 for the week; 4 years + cost £70 for the week.

Online enrolments now open www.twinkletotsdance.com 07828 857061 or email: summerschool@twinkletotsdance.com.

Places are limited.

Wise Owls Club will be running at Highfield School, West Road, Maidenhead, from Monday 23rd July – Friday 31st August 2018. Ofsted rated ‘Good’ and have a 5* food hygiene rating.

The children are cared for by their friendly, qualified and caring team. Join them for a fun filled summer holiday. Junior Club for ages 3-7 lots of sports, free play, craft activities, baking, messy play and group activities with fun outings to places such as Country parks, Farms, indoor soft play, Gruffalo trail, bowling, crazy golf & cinema. Plus visits to the club such as reptile man, princess/superhero parties, feathers and fur, basil farm and many more.

Trips to Local Park every day. Discovery Club for ages 7-14 lots of activities, sports, art and group games with fun outings to places such as Laser Quest, Coral Reef, Cinema, Crazy Golf, Sno-tubing, Swimming, Fruit picking, Cinema, Country Parks, Jump in. Plus visits to the club such as Reptile Man, Chocolate Factory, Drama workshop and Space planetarium. Trips to Local Park every day. A healthy snack, lunch and tea is an option for both clubs. Times: 9.00am-5.00pm, extended day 8am-6pm.

01628 620013. They have also partnered up with Jump in, Slough and will be operating a holiday club with them (see p.14). Bookings www.wiseowlschildcare.co.uk

Bray Lake Watersports

Berkshires Premier Watersports Centre •SUP•Kayak•Canoe•Windsurf•Dinghy•Swim• •SUP•Kayak•Canoe•Windsurf•Dinghy•Swim•

Junior Courses

•All abilities catered for •Multi-sport courses •Sport specific courses •Booking available now •Ages 8-15 years old •Online booking system •Family memberships •Summer holidays & half terms

Phone 01628 620013 Arts & crafts, sports, dance, drama, cinema, swimming, day trips…optional lunch & tea

Holiday, Breakfast & After School clubs 3 – 14yrs Holiday clubs > Highfield School, Maidenhead > Jumpin, Slough After school clubs > Courthouse > Oldfield > Furze Platt Schools > Holyport Scout Hut, Maidenhead Breakfast club > Pinkneys Green Centre > St. Peters Church, Maidenhead

Conveniently located just off the M4/M25 - Check out our facebook page or call for opening times

www.braylake.com info@braylake.com 01628 638860

Before School, After School & Holiday clubs

Now taking bookings for Sept After School and Breakfast Clubs

Summer club dates 23rd July – 31st August 2018 Quality childcare from just £3.15 per hour E: info@wiseowlschildcare.co.uk W: www.wiseowlschildcare.co.uk

Monkey Island Lane, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 2EB

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Summer Fun

How to fill the Summer holidays!

If you’re after some suggestions for keeping the kids entertained this summer, Families takes a look at what’s on offer in and around the local area. From days out to suggestions for having fun at home, there’s plenty to help fill those six weeks!

Book a tree top adventure Nets Kingdom at Go Ape, Black Park is an expansive network of tree top trampolines, giant ball nets, walkways and slides – all 30 feet up in the forest canopy. With two hours of fun for your whole tribe to bounce, crawl and clamber through, Black Park’s newest adventure is completely encased in hammock-like netting – safe as treehouses.

There’s even a few of those too! What adventure is complete without a treehouse?

Children over 5 can go up by themselves with an adult supervising from the ground, those younger than 5 can go up with an adult joining them. £20 per person for a two hour session (under 5’s are £10).

Nets Kingdom is just one of the four adventures available at Go Ape, Black Park. www.goape.co.uk Don’t forget to check out our competition to win a family ticket on p. 22!

Don’t miss out on the Maidenhead Festival The 2018 two-day family-focused festival will take place over the weekend of 21st and 22nd July in Kidwells Park. They will be welcoming Traylen’s Funfairs with attractions such as their traditional carousel, helter skelter and dodgem cars. The popular Maidenhead Festival Beach will be there, as well as a wide variety of food with many flavours from around the world.

New this year will be battery powered Go-Karts and a whole host of other fun activities from zorbing to rodeo riding. Back by popular

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Summer Fun demand is the Circus, with shows running on both Saturday and Sunday and there are also workshops to learn new circus skills!

Saturday’s grand finale will see the Ultimate Beatles, one of the UK’s top tribute bands, take to the stage which will be followed by the outstanding free fireworks display. The Headliners on Sunday Night will be Pop Rockin 80’s, a rock and pop tribute band, as well as the high energy International Tribute Show dedicated to the Music of George Michael.

Admission is free over the weekend. Charges will apply to refreshments and some activities. www.fb.com/MaidenheadFestival Visit Jump In Trampoline Park, Slough Whether you need a break from the sun or to escape from summer rain, Jump In Trampoline Park in Slough is great for all children. Summer offers include 5 one hour jumps for £35 and 10 one hour jumps for £6 (available until the 31st August). Check out what else is on throughout the Summer, including under 5's jumps and new gymnastics classes. www.gojumpin.com/slough Make the most of the outdoors Cliveden near Maidenhead is the perfect place to enjoy precious family time over the summer.

Let little ones run wild in the storybook play den or through the giant maze. Roly poly down the hill or take a wander down to the river.

If you fancy sleeping under the stars, take part in their family camping event, every weekend in July. Once your tent is set up, you can chose to play games in the main field, explore the nearby Play Trail or try some of the activities in your special adventure pack. After your picnic tea, rangers will lead a bat walk through the woods before the evening ends with hot chocolate and storytelling round the campfire.

In August you can also try tree climbing in the woods. Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden or call 01628 605069 to book.

Other National Trust properties worth visiting in the area are Hughenden Manor and Gray’s Court. Find out more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Pack your bucket and spade and head to the seaside A visit to the English seaside is a great summer holiday tradition if you don’t mind a bit of a drive. Pack your sunhat and sunscreen (or maybe even your wellies, it’s a British summer after all!) and head off for a paddle. West Wittering beach is arguably the nearest sandy beach.

Norden Farm’s ever popular Maidenhead Beach is back!

Enjoy all summer long from Mon 23 Jul to Sun 2 Sept (10am to 4pm). This year the inspiration is the tropical paradise of Goa. Free to play on every day with beachside tables for snacks and lunch from the Café Bar. There are daily Beach Craft and Storytelling sessions, plus family shows and films. For maximum chill out, explore the indoor sensory space, designed for children with SEND. See www.nordenfarm.org for details and information on their popular circus, art, dance and theatre weeks running throughout the holidays.

Enjoy Outdoor Theatre at Cliveden Brave the elements and enjoy a family outing watching an outdoor performance in a beautiful setting. Cliveden are showing an adaptation of David Walliams’ The Midnight Gang on 2 August and The Railway Children on 8 August. Performances are at 1.30 and 5pm Adult £16.50, Child £10 Call 0344 249 1895 to book or visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden

Pitch a tent in the back garden How about spending a night under canvas in the luxury of your own back garden? You could embrace the outdoor lifestyle and dine alfresco with a BBQ for tea. Make sure you don’t forget those marshmallows for roasting or there could be trouble!

Take part in the 2018 Summer Reading Challenge Children’s reading can dip during the summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to continued on page 18

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Summer Fun books and encouragement to read for pleasure.

The annual Summer Reading Challenge helps get three quarters of a million children into libraries each year to maintain their reading skills and confidence. 2018 will be the 20th challenge. It’s open to primary school children of every ability.

This year the challenge will focus on the theme of mischief and pranks, as inspired by the much-loved Beano comic, which celebrates its 80th anniversary next year.

Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays and collect incentives, such as stickers, to earn their final challenge certificate and medal. Children can choose, recommend and review books at the Book Sorter on the Challenge website.

This is the largest database of children’s peer-peer reading recommendations.

For more information, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk Take a train trip to London Never underestimate the excitement that comes with taking the train into the capital city! Your destination does not need to be expensive; both the Science museum and the Natural History museum are free to visit and if you’re getting the train into Paddington, it’s a lovely walk through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Inspired by Peter Pan and with an impressive wooden pirate ship as its centre

piece, it’s also worth stopping at the Princess Diana Memorial Playground. There is restricted entry on busy days though so be prepared to queue. If you have a Merlin pass make the most of free entry to the London Eye, Sea Life Aquarium and Shrek’s adventure! There’s also a FREE urban beach at London’s Royal Docks, open July 18 - Sept 2.

Try a new sport As it’s summer why not make it a water sport?

Windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddle-boarding are all fun activities that are offered at Bray Lake Watersports. The centre offers courses, instruction and hire for all levels in a safe and friendly environment. www.braylake.com Visit The Look Out Discovery Centre The Look Out Discovery Centre has two new exhibits to get children engaging with science in a fun way this summer. In the Light & Colour room there is the new thermal imaging camera. See how hot you are and use the handprints to change the colours. In the Forces and Movements zone there is a new cog wall.

Use the gears to turn the hands of the clock or light up the lights. In the centre there are 5 zones exhibits that demonstrate principles as diverse as gravity, the human body, light and shadow, colour, food chains, water and mathematical puzzles. As well as the hands-on science exhibition, there is a large play area

18 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

outdoors with sections for ages ranging from 3 to 11, including an all inclusive area. With walks in the forest too, you can find something to do all day. Check out www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ thelookoutdiscoverycentre Visit a zoo or farm Cotswold Wildlife Park is home to one of the UK’s largest zoological collections and boasts some stunning gardens. August will be Rhino Month at the park. there will be a daily talk throughout August at 2pm near the Rhino Paddock about these magnificent animals, the threats and the conservation work that is going on to try and protect them for future generations. 2017 was an exciting year in the rhino paddock as two baby calves, Alan and Belle were born to two of the breeding females and both can be seen this summer in the Rhino enclosure. www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk At Odds Farm Park, the Oddsocks Family are back for new adventures this summer, bringing with them different themes, shows, crafts and games to discover. Combined with acres of indoor and outdoor play and plenty of furry friends to meet, there’s so much to do. Plus, don’t forget to take your wellies and prepare to get wet in the new, bespoke and unique water play attraction, H2Odds! Amazing Summer Adventures at Odds Farm Park are available daily from 21st July to 2 September. www.oddsfarm.co.uk

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Summer Fun

Watch a movie at Kidwells Park Friday 17, Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 August are the dates for Maidenhead at the Movies - the free outdoor cinema in Kidwells Park. To pick the movie right for you or the family visit www.enjoymaidenhead.com

Water fun Why not try Liquid Leisure in Windsor for some really exciting water fun for all competent swimmers over 6 years of age. This is the home of the first official Ninja Warrior UK Aqua Park newly opened this summer and the World’s Largest Aqua Park. With the option to wakeboard on their state of the art cable lake, clamber across their floating obstacle course or just to relax on their beach by the bar, there’s something for all the family to enjoy. www.liquidleisure.com Seeking free water fun for your little ones? Try Runnymede Pleasure Grounds in Englefield Green which opens its paddling pool during the summer months.

The splash pad at Locks Ride Recreation Ground, Winkfield Row is also great for a hot day and includes fountains and tipping buckets (11am-1pm and 3-5pm).

Jocks Lane Park, Binfield Road, Bracknell also has a playground and splash pad for younger children.

for the Royal Wedding, the summer may be the right time to plan a visit with the children. Access to the castle itself is free with an advantage card (available to those living in Windsor or Maidenhead).

As well as the castle, don’t forget The Long Walk provides an accessible place for an amble, kick around or picnic with the children

without the worry of too much traffic. If you want to get closer to nature, plan a cycle or walk, perhaps spot a deer or visit the 100 foot Totem Pole at Virginia Water lake, you could venture further into Windsor Great Park. www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/ windsorcastle www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk

Bring this voucher to get one free child with one full paying adult*.

TVEJUL18

Visit a museum Visit Chiltern Open Air Museum, in Chalfont St Giles this summer.

Look out for Terrific Tuesdays themed activity and craft days and Creative Thursdays where children can take part in the national Arts Award Discover. From 23 – 28 July you can book your child a spot on an archaeological dig next to the Museum’s Iron Age roundhouse.

For 9–13 year olds, book them onto the Museum’s Go Wild in the Woods holiday club (6 to 10 August) where children can learn how to create fire, make a bow, have a go at archery, purify water, build a tarp shelter and much more. Also look out for family experience days and special living history events.

Visit www.coam.org.uk

Valid until 30/09/18 *Terms and conditions apply.

Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Plan a visit to Windsor Great Park and Castle If you weren’t able to be in Windsor

Tel: 01344 354400 www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

Be Amazed...The Look Out

Discovery Centre Science and discovery fun over 90 activities.

SUP ERH ERO Scie nce Sho w 21 July 2 September 2018

e

Shows run at weekends and school holidays.

Age 3+ Open 10am - 5pm every day

The Look Out Discovery Centre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW

Tel: 01344 354400

www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be

www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

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Summer Fun

Places to visit with children who have Special Needs or Disabilities Having a child with special needs often means there are additional challenges to consider when taking your child out and about. Families looks at some of the places in the local area which aim to cater for those with additional needs.

Autism-friendly after-school club for ages 812 years, runs at the Riverside Primary school in Maidenhead every Thursday during term-time from 3.15-6pm. The club is aimed at young people of mainstream ability and offers a safe and stimulating environment with a variety of activities. There are ten places available for children on the spectrum with an additional ten places available for siblings and friends to attend. All club leaders are DBS checked and experienced in autism. £5 per session. Holiday clubs also run at Riverside Primary school from 10am-4pm during school holidays and cost £15 per session. Visit www.standoutforautism.com to book on either.

Autism-friendly football sessions are on offer on a Sunday morning for 5 -15 year olds with Autism Spectrum Disorder on the Astroturf pitch at Maidenhead United FC’s Ground, York Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1SF. The sessions are delivered by FA level two qualified coaches who have completed the National Autistic Society’s Autism and Sport training. The soccer school is available for anyone with autism or any siblings or friends that would like to join in.

A parent social group also runs in the club house while the sessions are on with alternative activities for siblings who prefer free time. To book a place, please visit www.magpiesinthecommunity.org Autism and SEN Friendly sessions at Jump In Slough. Providing an exhilarating experience for jumpers of all ages, Autism and SEN friendly sessions take place every 1st Sunday of the month 9am to 10am and also every last Wednesday of the month (term time only) from 4.30pm – 5.30pm for children, adults and families. The sessions have SEN friendly music, no moving lights and all carers can jump for free. Tickets start from £6. Book online at www.gojumpin.com Beach Life. As part of Norden Farm’s Maidenhead Beach this summer, the family friendly venue will be hosting Beach Life – an interactive Gallery exhibition. Open daily between Monday 23 July and Sunday 2 September, this special installation is designed to be a relaxing sensory delight for everyone, inspired by the beach huts of Goa. You can get involved in designing (on the floor) and making fluttering kites to fly over the summer. The exhibition will also feature vibrant artwork created by local schools. www.norden.farm Kids'n'Action - Special Needs Night.

Kids'n'Action, is a play and party centre in Winnersh offering an Adventure Park, High Street (imaginative role play), video games room, sports arena, cafe and much much more. Every second Wednesday of the month, they run a 'Special Needs Night' which offers children of all ages, an evening of fun in a quieter, more relaxed environment. Sessions run from 5-8pm and cost £5.45 per child.

For more information visit: www.kids-n-action.co.uk Legoland - accessibility and helpers passes.

Legoland family theme park has over 55 interactive rides, live shows, building workshops and attractions set within 150 acres

20 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

of parkland. They offer free entry for carers and ride access passes that can be used by eligible guests to access as many rides as they like during their day. Recently relaunched, the ride access pass queues virtually for you and is designed to assist those who would find queuing difficult or do not understand the concept of queuing. In addition, the pass now includes a one-shot, which allows instant access to a ride of your choice at any time during the day. The park has also recently introduced a new Changing Places facility, which is specially designed for guests with specific needs. The facility is in addition to the disabled changing facilities already in operation throughout the park. For more information visit www.legoland.co.uk Odeon Cinema Autism Friendly Screenings.

Odeon cinemas in partnership with Dimensions, host specially adapted Autism Friendly Screenings of new releases one Sunday each month at 11:30am. The special performances have subtle changes to the cinema environment which mean that people who have sensory difficulties have a more positive experience than they would in a traditional cinema setting. Changes include: • The lights being kept on at a low level • Lower than usual sound levels • No trailers or advertisements - just the film • Allowance for increased levels of movement and noise Carers can attend for free if they have a valid CEA card. For more information visit: www.odeon.co.uk/accessibility/autismfriendly-cinema-screenings SportsAble Junior section launched in April this year for children under the age of 18 with sensory and physical disabilities. Located at its inclusive facilities in Braywick Road, Maidenhead, the sessions run from 2-4pm every Sunday and give children and their families or carers, the opportunity to try a variety of structured sport taster sessions together, as well as some fun and games, all within a relaxed environment. SportsAble coaches are fully trained in delivering inclusive sport and for a limited time, there are some FREE taster sessions available for anyone who is not a member of SportsAble but would like to try the session. If you are interested in attending, please email Niall.McCaffrey@sportsable.co.uk or call 01628 627690 www.sportsable.co.uk

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Summer Fun

Wheelchair accessible swing at the Thames Valley Adventure Playground

Thames Valley adventure Playground is based on a 2.5 acre secure site adjacent to the A4 in Taplow, near Maidenhead. The playground is open to children and adults with all types of special needs, however, mild or profound, their siblings and parents/carers. It offers a range of adventurous, therapeutic and educational play activities in a safe, caring and stimulating environment for both children and adults. Facilities

include wheelchair accessible roundabouts and swings, elevated walkways, multi-sensory rooms, soft play area, surfaced games area with adapted bikes and electric cars, an outdoor castle with slide, fireman’s pole and rope bridges, sand and water play and more!

Specially trained staff are also on hand to offer help and support.

The Playground also runs the following events. Booking is essential and all children must be

accompanied by an adult: • Integrated Playdays. Open to children 12 and under with no special needs. Every Saturday throughout the year, between 10am and 3.30pm £12 per child • Taplow Toddlers. An integrated fun group for toddlers aged 5 and under with or without a special need. Wednesday mornings from 9.30-11.00. £3 per child • Sibling Fun days. An opportunity for the brothers or sisters of those with special needs to join in activities, explore the playground and make new friends. Last Saturday in the month 10am -2pm. £8 per child (bring your own packed lunch).

For more information visit: www.tvap.co.uk or contact Gary Warrington on 01628 628599 or email theplayground@tvap.co.uk The Entertainer toy shops now run a quiet hour every Saturday morning for the first hour after opening. During this hour none of the stores will be playing music and the idea is to make them more welcoming for those who might be overwhelmed by loud background noise and busy crowds. Nearest store is Bracknell.

For more information visit www.thetoyshop.com

H WO OLID RK AY SH OP

Stagecoach Maidenhead

PUT ON A SHOW Make friends and build confidence at our theatre workshops

Come and be part of the adventure!

Weekdays at Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead and at the Beacon Centre,

Age: 4 - 6 year olds

Time: 9.30am - 12.30pm

6th - 10th AUGUST

Performance: Fri 11.30am Cost: £110 (£75 for siblings) Age: 7 - 18 year olds

BOOK NOW

Time: 10.00am - 4.00pm Performance: Fri 3.00pm Cost: £150 (£95 for siblings)

Saturdays at BCA, Maidenhead.

Classes across all the major dance disciplines, including ballet, modern, tap and acro dance, with fully teachers from one of the area’s bestloved and longest-established dance schools.

Rehearsal Venue Altwood School, Altwood Road Maidenhead SL6 4PU

THE FINAL PERFORMANCE WILL BE AT: The Courtyard Theatre at Norden Farm

to book your free trial, email Candy.

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W

stagecoach.co.uk/maidenhead

T

07871 530 119

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Competitions and Offers with WIN A Family ticket for Go Ape

WIN A Summer Camp with

Black Park!

The Little Gym Windsor!

With 4 experiences to choose from, there’s plenty of scope for family fun in the forest.

One lucky reader will win a Family Ticket offering 4 people the chance to experience one of the activities on offer at Go Ape, Black Park. Choose from: Nets Kingdom: Tree top walkways, giant ball nets, treehouses and slides 30 feet up in the forest canopy completely enclosed in hammock-like netting. Suitable for 1+ yrs.

Tree Top Junior: Canopy exploring, obstacles and zip wires suitable for all ages over 1 metre.

Tree Top Adventure: 2-3 hours in the trees on zip wires, rope ladders & Tarzan swings.

10+ yrs.

For your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to competitions@familiestveast.co.uk

For your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to competitions@familiestveast.co.uk

Where are the Summer Camps on offer?

You can also enter by liking our Facebook page @FamiliesTVE and sharing our competition posts.

Where can you have your Go Ape adventure?

B) Red Park

A) The Little Farm Windsor C) The Little Swim Windsor

B) The Little Gym Windsor

Closing date for competition entries is July 26

C) Black Park

Terms, Conditions and Policies of Camps at The Little Gym Windsor apply to winners.

Closing date for competition entries is July 26 *T&Cs apply

Families have teamed up with The Little Gym Windsor and are offering five lucky winners the opportunity to experience one of their summer camps for FREE! The Little Gym Windsor offers an amazing variety of fun camps for three to 12 year olds. Daily summer camps combine gymnastics, sports, and arts and crafts to get your little one moving and unleash their creativity. Each camp is 3 hours long with plenty of healthy snacks provided.

Forest Segway: Whizz along woodland trails aboard the all-terrain Segways. 10+yrs.

A) Green Park

If you’re looking for ways to help your kids burn energy, make friends and get creative this summer, you won’t want to miss the chance to enter this month’s competition.

www.goape.co.uk

*Further T&Cs apply

www.windsor.thelittlegym.eu

*Competition Terms and Conditions: 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.

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What’s On

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

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

Tales from the Puppeteer at Chiltern Open Air Museum, July 7 and 8

JULY

Every Sunday in summer RUNNING DAY AT GREAT COCKCROW RAILWAY Hardwick Lane, Lyne, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 0AD, 01932 565 474 Miniature train rides for 2+ years. Every Sunday from 1.30pm till 5pm until October 29. The booking office closes at 4.45pm. www.cockcrow.co.uk Ongoing SCIENCE EXHIBITION The Look Out Discovery Centre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 7QW 01344 354400 More than 90 activities which children of all ages can enjoy and learn from: launch a hydrogen rocket, play with boats in the indoor stream or build a house with your friends. Science shows run at weekends and Bracknell school holidays, subject to minimum numbers. £1.95 per person in addition to the main entrance price to the hands-on science and nature exhibition. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisureservices/look-out Saturdays in July STORYTIME AT MARLOW BOOKSHOP 22-26 Spittal St, Marlow SL7 1DB Enjoy a story at the town’s independent book store.

10-10.30am, ideal for babies and pre-schoolers. www.marlowbookshop.co.uk Sundays in July VISIT ETON NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Eton College, South Meadow Lane, Eton SL4 6DW Housing the Thackeray Collection of British Birds and other collections with more than 15,000 specimens, donated from the nineteenth century onwards. The museum is open every Sunday afternoon from 2.30 to 5pm. www.Etonnhm.com Ongoing until Sunday July 15 GAME OF CLUES: MURDER MYSTERY Cliveden National Trust, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA 01628 605069. A new year, a new victim, a new killer. A brand new outdoor mystery for you and your family to solve.

Suitable for children approximately 8+ dogs on leads welcome. Pick up the event from the information centre. 10.30am to 4pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Ongoing until Thursday July 19 RIVER CRUISES Cliveden as above. Call 01628 605069 ext.121 or book on a cruise at the information centre. A selection of boating options offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy the river on a 45 minute cruise down Cliveden's Thames stretch. Adult £11.50, child £6. Walking to the river from the main car park takes approximately 30 minutes and includes 172 steps.

Boat ticket holders who are less able to walk can take a ride on the free boat bus.

Sunday July 1 FAMILY FUN DAY FESTIVAL Royal Windsor Racecourse Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, SL4 5JJ, 01753 498400 Live music from 1D, Katy Perry & Pink tribute acts! As well as 7 races for the adults to enjoy, there will be a FREE funfair and inflatables for the kids. www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

It’s the Big Camp at Cliveden, July 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28

Goan, Goan, Goan - visit Norden Farm’s beach, July 23 to September 2

Sunday July 1 GIN IN THE PARK Guards Club Park, Maidenhead SL6 8DN. A friendly, family festival with gin smiths, cocktails, posh grub, tea room, fresh produce, VIP area, picnic area, kids’ entertainment, live on stage, opera, swing, jazz and rock’n’roll.

Shuttle available from the town. Enjoy Maidenhead, Eat On The High Street, Shabbytique and more. www.gininthepark.com Wednesdays from July 4 TOY LIBRARY Highview, 6 North Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1PL 10am-noon, and on the first Sunday of each month from 3-5pm Thursday July 5 TEEN RANGERS - WINDSOR GREAT PARK Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre (access is via Forest Gate off the A332 between Windsor and Ascot, SL4 2BY). Monthly wildlife club for young people 12-16 years. Spend time outdoors in the park and forest to discover who and what lives there. Budding naturalists can test their animal tracking, shelter building and bushcraft skills to learn more about the flora and fauna. 6-8pm. £5. www.bbowt.org.uk/whats-on Saturday July 7 MUSIC IN THE GROVE Cliveden National Trust, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA 01628 605069 Enjoy live acoustic music in Cliveden's Ilex Grove, brought to you by jazz band Pocket Full of Swing. FREE, usual entry fees apply. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Saturday July 7 and Sunday 8 TALES FROM THE PUPPETEER Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB Theatrix Arts perform a magical story based on the legend of the Lambton Worm through puppets, changing scenery, music and sound effects. Then meet the puppets. Suitable for families and children aged 4+. Create a puppet theatre craft to take home. www.coam.org.uk

Sunday July 8 NATIONAL MEADOWS DAY Runnymede National Trust, Old Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 2JL, 01784 432891. Come and celebrate the magnificent meadows of Runnymede with children's activities and guided walks for all. Make a seed bomb (50p), see how many different flowers you can spot, and chat to the ranger to learn all about this lovely and special habitat. FREE event.

10.30am to 4pm. 11.30am - Guided meadows walk Sunday July 8 THE BIG COMMUNITY PICNIC Burnham Beeches Hawthorn Lane, Lord Mayors Drive, Burnham SL2 3TE. Bring a picnic and enjoy the fun: craft activities, music, games and displays to entertain you. 12-3pm.

Friday July 13 NATURE TOTS - WINDSOR GREAT PARK Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre (access via Forest Gate, A332 between Windsor and Ascot, SL4 2BY). Have fun in natural surroundings.

Each session includes seasonal nature discovery, games, crafts and lots of fun! Story-time and drinks included. All children must be accompanied.

Suitable for 18 months to 4 years (younger siblings welcome) Sessions at 10-11.30am. Sessions also on Monday July 16, 10am and 1pm. £7 per child. www.bbowt.org.uk Friday July 13 and Saturday July 14 BIG CAMP Cliveden National Trust, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA Call 0344 249 1895 to book. The whole family will love taking part in an evening under the stars. Exploring, wildlife spotting, marshmallow toasting and storytelling round the camp fire. Arrive from 4pm at the event field. Hot and cold soft drinks will be provided. Wake up to a complimentary breakfast followed by a morning scavenger hunt. Adult £29, child £17. Also July 20, 21, 27 and 28. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden

Learn to swim the eZee way

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.

Email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk • Tel: 01628 788058

· Swimming lessons for children of all ages and abilities. · Term time and school holidays. ·Classes running in Holyport, Maidenhead info@ezeeswim.co.uk www.ezeeswim.co.uk

07766 258279

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What’s On Compiled by Siobhan Newman

Photo: Nicholas Dawkes

Fifield Fun Day, July 28

Moo-ve it to a family workshop at Norden Farm, July 28

Rock’n’roll for kids comes to Norden Farm, July 29

Saturday July 14 to Sunday 15 SHARPE’S RIFLES Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. Be transported back in time to the Napoleonic era.

Meet soldiers and visit the living history encampment. At 3.30pm watch a thrilling display of military skill (NB includes gunfire). Usual entry fee applies. www.coam.org.uk Thursday July 19 YOUNG RANGERS - WINDSOR GREAT PARK Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre (access by Forest Gate off the A332 between Windsor and Ascot, SL4 2BY). Monthly wildlife club for children aged 8-12 years. Explore and discover who and what lives in the park and forest. Become a nature detective to find out about birds, bats, deer, minibeasts and more!

Action packed activities such as pond dipping, bug hunts, animal tracking, shelter building and bushcraft. Drinks provided. 6-7.30pm. www.bbowt.org.uk Saturday July 21 FAMILY ZOO DAY BCA Animal Management centre, Burchetts Green Road, Burchett's Green, Maidenhead SL6 6QR 01628 824444. Come and admire the amazing array of species at the college, including otters, skunks, snakes, frogs, meerkats and many more! Look around the zoo and watch their keepers running educational talks, feeding displays and handling demonstrations. Tickets must be bought in advance for either the morning slot (9am – midday) or the afternoon slot (1pm to 4pm). Adult £8, children £5. Children under three - free. www.bca.ac.uk/events Saturday July 21 to Sunday 22 CLASSIC VEHICLES SHOW Chiltern Open Air Museum as

above. Come and admire an amazing collection of classic cars, lorries, traditional fire engines, motorcycles and historic bicycles. You will also be able to come and see a collection of historic tractors and wagons on our farm, which was once used for filming TV drama Downton Abbey.

If you own a classic vehicle, Register to bring it along for a spin. www.coam.org.uk Saturday July 21 and Sunday July 22 MAIDENHEAD FESTIVAL Kidwells Park, Bath Road, Maidenhead, SL6 8AQ, 01628 685 333. A feast of fun comes to the park with bands on the main stage, a big top with circus shows, acoustic performers, opera, dance, the Festival Beach and funfair and kids zone plus street food stalls.

George Michael tribute act Johnny Mack and Fab Four tribute Ultimate Beatles headline. Don’t miss the fireworks at the end of Saturday night.

Admission FREE, charges apply to refreshments and some activities. www.mheadfestival.weebly.com Saturday July 21 to Sunday September 2 AMAZING SUMMER ADVENTURES Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX 01628 520 188 The Oddsocks Family return, bringing with them themed shows, arts, crafts and summer-time games. Plus the new water attraction will be open. www.oddsfarm.co.uk Saturday July 21 to Wednesday September 5 WOODLAND WONDERS TRAIL Burnham Beeches Hawthorn Lane, Lord Mayors Drive, Burnham SL2 3TE. Pick up a leaflet from the Information Point and guide yourself along the route. Suggested donation £2. Bring a pencil.

Monday July 23 to Sunday September 2 GOAN BEACH AND CREATIVE SESSIONS Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. This year’s beach is inspired by the laid back tropical paradise that is Goa. It’s free to play on with beachside tables available for snacks and lunch from the Cafe Bar (including children’s picnic bags). Peel yourself off the beach and get creative with your little ones in the centre’s beach craft sessions: Arts and Crafts (45 mins) £5 per child, Monday to Saturday 10.30am. Relax in the story den for Storytelling sessions (20 mins) £2 per person Monday to Saturday 1.30pm and 3.30pm. Or explore the indoor sensory space in the Gallery designed for children with SEND, get involved with decorating the floor and making kites. www.norden.farm Wednesday July 25 WOODLAND WONDERS CRAFTS Burnham Beeches as above.

Nature-based fun and craft activities aimed at children aged 4-12. Suggested donation £2.

Friday July 27 BAT WALK Maidenhead and Cookham Commons Pinkneys Green, Pinkneys Drive, Maidenhead, SL6 6QD Call 0344 249 1895 to book. Join our expert and immerse yourself in the world of bats and learn about the woods they call home. £12, 8.30-10pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/maidenhead-andcookham-commons Saturday July 28 FIFIELD FUN DAY Ferndale Park, Fifield Road, Berkshire. Stalls, entertainment and lots to eat and drink. Mr Muddle will be creating Magical Mayhem throughout the day and Anna Nightingale will be adding melodies to your memories. All proceeds go to charity. Volunteers welcomed. www.facebook.com/FifieldFunDay Saturday July 28 TECH TASTER SESSIONS: MOOING COW FAMILY WORKSHOP Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997 Add the electronics and simple Scratch code to allow your Daisy to detect when someone is close and warn them by making a noise. 10am to 11am, £12 per person, suitable for ages 8+ years, with accompanying adults. www.norden.farm Saturday July 28 3D PRINTING Norden Farm, as above. Use simple design software to create your personalised 3D design printed for you to collect later. 11.30am to 12.30pm, £12 per person, 10+ years. No accompanying adults necessary.

Saturday July 28 TECH TASTER: MINECRAFT FAMILY WORKSHOP Norden Farm, as above.

Experience coding Minecraft on a Raspberry Pi computer! You’ll learn how to use the Python

Young Living essential oils and oil infused products for bath, beauty, baby and the home: free from toxic chemicals and not tested on animals.

For more info contact Julie Babis therosetreehouse@gmail.com www.facebook.com/rosetreehouse +33 6 33 00 73 03 +44 (0)7981 863720

24 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

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What’s On

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

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

Photo: Luminous Photography

Roll up to Circus Week at Norden Farm, July 30 to August 3

language to control and build your Minecraft world. 1.30pm - 2.30pm, £12 per person, 8 -16 years, with accompanying adults. Encourages young people to work collaboratively with parents and guardians to get creative together.

Saturday July 28 to Sunday 29 RAGGED VICTORIANS Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB Meet costumed re-enactors in and around the Museum site. Look out for shady characters including the rat catcher and his rats; street urchins; doctor (with real leeches!), rogues and vagabonds. Great for kids learning about the Victorians at school. Watch out for pickpockets!

Standard admission prices apply. www.coam.org.uk Sunday July 29 ROCK ‘N’ ROLL CONCERTINI WITH MATT BOND AND THE POOR BOYS GOOD TIME BAND Norden Farm, as above. Some of the best-loved Rock n Roll themes from the 1950s and beyond. Be inspired by the sounds of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Elvis whilst the kids dance sing or just chill out on our bean bags. It’s Rock and Roll with a touch of Yee Ha! £10 (£8 under 16s). Family and friends (4 people) £32. Tickets/seats are not required for children under 18 months who are happy to sit on laps. 11.30am and 2pm.

Monday July 30 to Friday August 3 SUMMER CIRCUS WEEK Norden Farm. Led by Albert and Friends. A week of incredible circus skills and performing. Learn to walk on stilts, ride a unicycle, walk the tightrope and perform on a trapeze! 7 to 13 years. 10am to 4pm, £115 (£110 with Advantage Card). www.norden.farm Tuesday July 31 TERRIFIC TUESDAYS: THE CHERRY HARVEST Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. Take part in a number of activities linked with the Cherry Harvest and visit the centre’s cherry orchard. www.coam.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Explore nature at Woolley Firs, August 1

AUGUST

Wednesday August 1 GOING ON A (MICROSCOPIC BEAR HUNT) Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ 01628 829 574. Search for tardigrades (otherwise known as 'Water Bears'!) and other mini Woolley Firs inhabitants, in the undergrowth bark, leaf litter or moss, or freshwater pond. Look closer back at the centre using microscopes, magnifying glasses and petri-dishes and learn some interesting facts and features about this hidden world. 7-14 years.

Feel free to bring a picnic if you wish to stay after the morning session or before the afternoon session. Children must be accompanied, £4 per child, 10am to 11.30am. www.bbowt.org.uk Thursday August 2 OUTDOOR THEATRE - THE MIDNIGHT GANG Cliveden National Trust, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA Call 0344 249 1895 to book. Heartbreak Productions hilarious adaptation of David Walliams’ bestselling book. When everyone else is sweetly sleeping, the Midnight Gang gather in the middle of the night in the name of magic, mischief, and memory making. Bring rugs and a picnic.

Presented in Cliveden's Water Garden.

Performances (two hours) 1.30pm and 5pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Saturday August 4 and Saturday 25 BUTTERFLY WALK Maidenhead and Cookham Commons Pinkneys Green, Pinkneys Drive, Maidenhead, SL6 6QD Call 0344 249 1895 to book.

Come and observe majestic butterflies as they flit across woodland glades at Maidenhead Thicket. Adults £8, child £4. 12noon-2pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/maidenhead -and-cookham-commons Saturday August 4 to Sunday 5 RURAL LIFE Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. Watch demonstrations of traditional crafts in and around the Museum’s historic buildings and site. Visit a selection of stalls selling traditional

See the butterflies at Maidenhead Common, August 4

hand-made merchandise. Standard admission prices apply. www.coam.org.uk Tuesday August 7 TERRIFIC TUESDAYS: COMMUNICATION COAM as above. Discover how communication has changed over time. Take part in our story book inspired trail, enjoy craft activities and participate in communication games with the Air Cadets. www.coam.org.uk Tuesday August 7 to Saturday 12 CATS Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS 01753 853 888 An energetic youth production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber classic. Meet Macavity and discover the Jellicle ball.

Young people aged 9 -18, who would like to be involved with the band, marketing, costume design, lighting or even directing, email learning@theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk for details. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Wednesday August 8 OUTDOOR THEATRE - THE RAILWAY CHILDREN Cliveden National Trust, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. Call 0344 249 1895 to book. Mysteriously separated from their father and relocated to Yorkshire, Bobbie, Phyllis and Peter set about creating a new life for themselves and making friends. With the help of the railway and the community around it, they are able to piece their family back together.

Award-winning, magical adaptation of E Nesbit's classic, guarantees to have

Email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk • Tel: 01628 788058

the whole family cheering. Performed in the open air on the lawn in Cliveden's Water Garden. Bring a picnic and rugs. Adult £16.50, child £10. Shows at 1.30pm and 5pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Thursday August 9 and Friday 10 OUTDOOR THEATRE - THE HOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES Cliveden as above. Join the open air theatre company Illyria for their performance of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s tale of Sherlock Holmes and the hound from hell performed in the tranquility of Cliveden's Water Garden. Bring your own seating. Adult £16.50, child £10.

Shows 7.30pm.

Saturday August 11 to Sunday 12 DISCOVER THE ENGLISH CIVIL WAR Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. Reveal how officers, soldiers and civilians lived during the English Civil War. Standard admission prices apply. www.coam.org.uk Saturday August 11 HOW DOES THIS POLITICS THING WORK THEN? Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997 Politics is boring.

Politics is complicated. Rubbish!

Politics is super important and can be made really fun too. Tatton and Tiernan will help you make sense of it all! You might not be able to vote yet, but you do have opinions. Ideal for 7+ years. £10 (£8 under 16s), family and friends (4 people) £32.

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What’s On

MORE ONLINE

Compiled by Siobhan Newman

familiesonline.co.uk

The Railway Children, Cliveden August 8

Tickets/seats are not required for children under 18 months who are happy to sit on laps. 2pm. www.norden.farm Saturday August 11 to Sunday 12 THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS 01753 853 888. Join a tiny snail on her trip round the world in Tall Stories’ magical, musical production inspired by the fantastic bestselling picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Follow the tiny snail’s exciting journey, as seen through the eyes of an adventurous young girl and her seafaring father... Storytelling, live music and lots of laughs from the Olivier Award-nominated company that staged The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom. 4+ years www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Tuesday August 14 WOODLAND WONDERS GO WILD DAY Burnham Beeches Hawthorn Lane, Lord Mayors Drive, Burnham SL2 3TE Morning: wildlife walk – bug hunts, games and fun in the woods.

Suggested donation £2. Booking required. Afternoon: 2.30pm to 4pm; if you can’t make the morning or just want even more fun, drop in for an afternoon of nature-based fun and craft activities at the Information Point aimed at children aged 4-12.

Suggested donation £2.

Tuesday August 14 TERRIFIC TUESDAYS: THE GREAT OUTDOORS Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles,

Illyria bring outdoor theatre to Cliveden, August 9 and 10

HP8 4AB Discover the great outdoors around site and woodlands. Take part in a plant and flower trail, have a go at shelter building, try out pond dipping and create some natural artwork. www.coam.org.uk Tuesday August 14 and Wednesday 15 ZOOLOGIST FOR A DAY Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ 01628 829 574 A day of sweep-netting, bug-hunting, bird watching and pond-dipping with time for a picnic lunch (bring own picnic).

7+ years (£7) accompanying adults (free). 10am to 2pm. www.bbowt.org.uk/events Wednesday August 15 WOODLAND WONDERS GO WILD DAY Burnham Beeches Hawthorn Lane, Lord Mayors Drive, Burnham SL2 3TE. A ranger from the Beeches will be showing off some of the fabulous creepy crawlies that live in the woods. 10.45am to 12.30pm.

Friday August 17 to Sunday 19 MAIDENHEAD AT THE MOVIES 2018 Kidwells Park, Bath Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 8AQ FREE outdoor cinema. There will be four films showing each day in the park as well as fun fair rides and food stalls. Please note, dates and the film line-up were yet to be confirmed as Families went to press, please check website closer to the event time. www.enjoymaidenhead.com

26 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

The Snail and The Whale sail into Theatre Royal Windsor, August 11 and 12

Saturday August 18 BAT WALK Maidenhead and Cookham Commons Pinkneys Green, Pinkneys Drive, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 6QD Call 0344 249 1895 to book. Join our expert and immerse yourself in the world of bats and learn about the woods they call home. £12, 8.30-10pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/maidenhead -and-cookham-commons Saturday August 18 TOONTASTIC 3D WORKSHOP Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997 Led by Discovery, with Three. During this session you can draw, animate, and narrate swashbuckling adventures, breaking news stories and science reports then share these with family and friends! 8+ years. 10am FREE booking required. www.norden.farm Saturday August 18 FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP Norden Farm, as above. This session focuses on Aviary, available on Apple and Android. Sharpen, soften or saturate photos for the right look, draw your own captions and doodles and experiment with filters to create artful effects. Minimum age 5+ years. These sessions encourage young people to work collaboratively with their parents and guardians to get creative together.

Noon, FREE www.norden.farm Saturday August 18 FAMILY STOP MOTION ANIMATION WORKSHOP Norden Farm, as above. If you’ve ever wanted to make your own movie, this

stop motion session teaches you how to create your story using props and scenery - you can even bring your own with you. Minimum age 5+ years.

1.30pm, FREE but booking essential. www.norden.farm Saturday August 18 ZOO DAY BCA Animal Management centre, Burchetts Green Road, Burchett's Green, Maidenhead SL6 6QR 01628 824444 See skunks, snakes, otters, frogs, meerkats and many more. Educational talks, feeding displays and handling demonstrations. Tickets in advance for either the morning slot (9am to noon) or the afternoon slot (1pm to 4pm).

Adult £8, children £5. Children under three free. www.bca.ac.uk/events Saturday August 18 to Sunday 19 IRON AGE LIFE Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. Meet costumed re-enactors and learn about life in the Iron Age for both the invading Roman forces and native British tribes. Visit the Iron Age roundhouse to see how families lived in the Iron Age and watch exciting demonstrations of fighting skill.

Standard admission prices apply. www.coam.org.uk Tuesday August 21 TERRIFIC TUESDAYS: WAR TIME TUESDAY COAM as above. To celebrate the centenary of World War One join us for this wartime-themed Tuesday and enjoy a range of activities linked to World War One and World War Two. www.coam.org.uk

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

What’s On

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

Maidenhead At The Movies, August 17 to 19

Head Back to the Future at COAM, August 23

Three Little Pigs Tails at Norden Farm, August 28

Tuesday August 21 POO AND OTHER CLUES Woolley Firs Environmental Education centre, Cherry Garden Lane Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ 01628 829 574. Become a tracking expert, investigate the clues that creatures leave behind, and find out more about the mysterious creatures of Woolley Firs. Activities are suitable for 4-11 years and older/younger siblings are welcome to accompany. Bring a picnic if you like! 10am to 2pm. £4 per child, supervisory adults free. Also runs Wednesday and Thursday, August 22 and 23. www.bbowt.org.uk/events Wednesday August 22 WOODLAND WONDERS GO WILD DAY Burnham Beeches Hawthorn Lane, Lord Mayors Drive, Burnham SL2 3TE Morning: wildlife walk – bug hunts, games and fun in the woods. Suggested donation £2. Booking required. Afternoon: 2.30pm to 4pm; if you can’t make the morning or just want even more fun, drop in for an afternoon of nature-based fun and craft activities at the Information Point aimed at children aged 4-12. Suggested donation £2.

Wednesday August 22 to Saturday 25 OUTDOOR CINEMA Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorlands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB The museum presents its first outdoor film nights.

Each film starts at 8.30pm with doors opening 90 minutes before the film time and closing 30 minutes before it starts. Reserved seating available for people who have purchased a date night or family package. There will be a bar, barbecue,

snacks and hot drinks to buy. Bring your own picnic blanket or low chairs. Wednesday: La La Land (12A) Thursday: Back to the Future (PG), Friday: Gladiator (over 15s only) Saturday: Grease (PG). For information on group bookings or disabled access, email contact@neighbourhoodcinema.co.uk www.coam.org.uk Tuesday August 28 TERRIFIC TUESDAYS: TERRIBLE TUESDAY, COAM as above. Are you brave enough to join us for this terrible day? Have a go at dissecting (fake!) poo to discover what people used to eat, take part in a witch trail, make witch pots to put a hex on your enemies, learn how to identify animal poo, visit our alchemist and do your best to wash our dirty nappies! www.coam.org.uk Tuesday August 28 THREE LITTLE PIG TAILS Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997. Let me in little piggie it's blowing a gale, not by the hairs on my little pink tail. A brand new version of the classic story set in Paris. A grumpy old wolf is a chef who wants some pigs' tails for his soup. Will the little pigs outwit him? A funny, warmhearted and interactive rustic tale bristling with puppets, live music and lots of joining in, ideal for ages three plus. £10 (£8 under 16s), family and friends (4 people) £32. Tickets/seats are not required for children under 18 months who are happy to sit on laps. www.norden.farm

Sunday September 2 ON LOCATION Burnham Beeches Hawthorn Lane, Lord Mayors Drive, Burnham SL2 3TE. Join a two-hour walk to see some of the Burnham Beeches to explore one of the most popular film locations in the country to see filming locations from Harry Potter, James Bond and Robin Hood. Booking required.

Afternoon walk.

Sunday September 2 to Sunday 30 RARE BREED MONTHS Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX 01628 520 188 Learn and celebrate all about our Rare Breeds by completing the special trail to earn a treat! www.oddsfarm.co.uk Sunday September 3 BIG BAND CONCERTINI WITH BLAKES HEAVEN An original and enjoyable live music experience designed for grown-ups to enjoy with their children in a relaxed and friendly environment. Blake's Heaven Big Band is a 17-piece ensemble performing jazz, swing, pop and funk, TV themes, Latin and rock – all with a unique twist. Be inspired by sizzling saxes, screaming trumpets and soulful trombones whilst your little ones dance sing, wriggle or even sleep!

This is a standing event with some allocated seating £10 (£8 under 16s) Family and Friends (4 people) £32. 11.30am. www.norden.farm

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SEPTEMBER

Families Thames Valley East • 27

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Parenting

Starting School and Summer-born Children

By Anna Collins My youngest son, Joshua is due to start school in September and as his birthday is the end of August, he’ll have just turned 4 the week before – gulp! Not only will he be one of the youngest in his class; he may even be the youngest child in the whole school!

A

s most parents are aware, you are now able to apply to delay children going to school if they are born between April-August and, if granted permission by the authorities, they can start reception year when they turn 5. So, if I’m honest I’ve been thinking about this for the last year vaguely wondering if we should delay or not? The national figures showed that there was an 84% rise in requests for deferred entry last year. Three quarters of all requests made were granted.

We had to apply for a school through the normal process as if Joshua was starting in September regardless, so you feel like you are going down the standard admission path anyway to begin with.

According to the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead School admissions website (and please note other local authorities may differ), this is currently what you should do if you want to request a delay:

i. Apply in the usual way by 15 January ii. Visit the school(s) you are interested in and discuss it with them; and iii. Provide a written statement explaining why you think this would be best for your child, setting out the schools’ views and the views of any professional person involved with the child. This should clearly demonstrate why it would be in the child’s interests to be admitted to Reception rather than Year 1.

They go on to say: You will have to reapply for a Reception place the following year under the normal admissions round, naming only the school(s) which agreed to your request to delay. There is no guarantee you will get a place at any of your named preferences when you re-apply. If we are unable to allocate a place at one of your named schools, your child will be required to do an in-year transfer directly into Year 1 at a school where places are available.

They also say that for only a very small number of children, for example those who have medical needs, it may be best for them to start Reception class a year later.

Department of Education researchers said that delaying a summer-born child's entry to primary school had little impact on attainment however. They looked at results achieved in the Phonics Screening Check taken by pupils at the end of Year 1. Children whose school start was delayed in 2014 and 2015 scored an average of 0.7 marks higher than those who started the previous year. The researchers said this difference was “not statistically significant”.

In the end, we decided not to go through the deferral process with Joshua. You need to weigh up your own child and family’s circumstances. As we are familiar with the school already (Joshua’s older brother goes there), he doesn’t have any medical needs and is used to 3 days at nursey, we will embrace schooling. It seems you need to be prepared for quite a bit of admin and waiting if you want to defer your child, but if it’s the right thing for your child at least you can now apply to do this. If you are considering it, do not forget to check continued childcare arrangements and funded hours as part of your research.

I have to admit it’s been a tough decision, but I am now geared for the September start. A lot of schools offer staggered starts or you could try requesting to do morning only for the first term. I am sure we will try out some of these options if necessary. Meanwhile I tell myself Reception year is mainly about play and learning to socialise. Maybe I’ll keep you posted as to how we get on!

28 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

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Parenting

Flying with three...

By Rachel Bailey

W

e are fortunate enough to have family in Greece so my eldest in particular is a seasoned flyer, however I haven’t made nearly as many plane journeys with the twins. They have already flown to both Greece and Florida which considering they are only three, is not a bad track record, but the past couple of summers, I have managed a trip to visit relatives with just my eldest boy, thanks to grandparents. It’s not that I hadn’t wanted to take all three, but more that I wasn’t sure quite how I’d manage the luggage on my own and the first time, as under twos, they didn’t require their own seat, yet I didn’t really have enough lap for both of them (and I’m sure there are rules about that!). It was also a great opportunity to spend some quality one on one time with him, which I loved and I’ll admit, it was a far more relaxing holiday with just a 6 year old in tow. More than capable of making his own friends, I even got to read a book on the beach occasionally!

Now the twins are that bit older however, we have decided it’s time to attempt the family holiday again. I don’t want to feel like the twins are missing out and nor do my husband and I want to keep doing separate things with the children. Whilst there has been some benefit in the divide and conquer approach (read as the only way to keep sane when outnumbered by wilful toddlers), I think enjoying time as a family in a more relaxed setting is valuable too.

When we flew to Florida, the twins were just 5 months old and whilst that might sound brave, they weren’t running off or whining about being bored. We took a night flight so we could put them to bed on the plane and the biggest issue was whether one would sleep and not the other. At that age they couldn’t get out of their seats and despite having to take them in and out of the cots whenever there was turbulence, they did both sleep (a little).

The last plane journey we made as a family to Greece before the twins were two, was

eventful before we even got as far as the airport. We were due to fly out on Easter Monday and a friend rang me a week before to mention that she’d just had a reminder that her son’s passport was up for renewal and assumed I’d checked Jonah’s, but just thought she’d mention it. Obviously it had completely passed me by that the first passport is only valid for 5 years instead of 10 and sure enough when I checked, I found it had expired!

Refusing to be beaten, I remembered that years ago, a friend and I had booked on a package holiday and she had discovered her passport was out of date two days before we were due to leave. She simply spent a day in London queuing at the passport office where they issued her a new one. Inconvenient, yes but not the end of the world. I soon discovered

that the process is far more complicated with a child however. Admittedly it’s for good reason, but that didn’t help the panic. In the end, I drove to Wales the following day as that was the only place I could get a last minute appointment and spent an anxious few days waiting for the replacement passport to arrive in the post, hoping it wouldn’t be held up by the upcoming bank holiday. Thankfully, we did receive it in time, but it was definitely a lesson learnt!

So, as I pack our bags with numerous snacks and electronic devices fully charged and loaded with Peppa pig episodes and Minecraft, I’m hoping we’ll all still be talking to each other when we land!

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! Accepts 30 hours funding To find out more about our excellent childcare facility and meet our team: Call: 01753 855543 • Email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk Visit: www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk

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Families Thames Valley East • 29

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He Means Business...

A bit of a change to ‘She Means Business’ this issue! This one is a ‘He Means Business’. Michael is one of the owners of the Windsor Playball franchise – a great new way to get young children physically active and focused without having to specialise in a specific sport before they are ready. We think it’s a great idea.

Who you are and where do you live?

My name is Michael MacIntosh, I am a sport fanatic originally from Zimbabwe and I have been living in the UK for two years now. I am currently living in Hampton Wick with a move to Windsor imminent, which I am very excited about!

Tell us a bit about the business?

We are the Windsor franchise of a fantastic programme called Playball. Playball is a multi-sport programme for children aged 2-8 years old. It is a fun, structured and active way of engaging children in physical activity at a young age without having to specialise in a specific sport. Our scientifically researched curriculum, provides a good platform for development through movement, enhancing life skills and building a strong base for confident sport participation.

We offer a variety of sports-based activities, including weekly lessons which follow our structured curriculum, unforgettable Playball birthday parties and our renowned fun-filled holiday camps.

The Playball programme caters for boys and girls of every ability and interest as well as providing foundation sport skills for athletes of the future.

The success of the Playball 'sport programme' is that through competent sports participation, children will secure a solid base from which to develop many other and more important aspects of their lives.

What did you use to do? Did you change career to do this?

After school I studied Sports Science in Pretoria, South Africa whilst I played rugby and tried to make a career out of it.

Unfortunately my body didn’t agree and through injury I couldn’t carry on playing which is when, in hindsight, I found my real passion which lies in developing sport, getting people to enjoy it and take part in it. Upon arrival in the UK, I was prompted by friends of mine to look into Playball and I did, which lead me to Hammersmith, London where I was offered the job as Head Coach at a new up and coming franchise.

What inspired you to set up the business?

In my head coach role at our Hammersmith franchise I was part of a two-man team which helped grow our franchise from just over 100 children to 450 children in about a year. From there, my boss had to immigrate to Australia for family reasons and after numerous discussions with the various Heads of Playball it was decided I should try and replicate what we have done in Hammersmith out in Windsor to try and spread this fantastic programme out of London where it has been so successful. So here I am!

What are your plans for the future?

My plans for the future are simple.

To try and expose as many children as I can to what this fantastic programme has to offer, build up a relationship with the locals of Windsor and surroundings and to assist the Council in any way I can to help with sports development.

Hopefully I will leave child participation in sport in a better

30 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

place than which I found it, getting them to put their iPads, phones, TV’s and Xbox’s away and make time to get outside and be active!

What would be your advice to other business owners?

As a relative new comer I might not be the best to offer advice to other business owners. What I can say however is if you are thinking about starting a business, the most important thing is to make sure you have a passion for what you do. It makes the hard days seem worth it, you will have confidence in what you are trying to achieve and crucially, you will love what you do all day!

Playball Windsor can be reached by email: windsor@playballkids.com or call/text/Whatsapp on: 0748 858 1123 or 0740 106 4787 www.playballkids.com

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...She Means Business Local mum Sally Worman talks to Families about returning to work as the Marketing Manager at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts after the birth of her daughter.

Tell us about yourself and your children My name is Sally Worman, I live in Maidenhead with my husband and our 18 month old daughter. I’m Marketing Manager at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts.

How have you found maternity leave?

My daughter arrived two weeks early, within a couple of days of my maternity leave starting, so I didn’t get the days relaxing in the sun that I had envisaged! I was surprised at how it instantly felt ‘the norm’ not to be at work and to have my days filled with looking after my baby instead. I went on maternity leave in July 2016 and I remember really missing work in November and December because I always enjoy the build up to our Christmas show and the annual Lantern Parade. I kept seeing posts from the Norden Farm Facebook page and feeling really envious that I wasn’t a part of it!

Where do you work? How many days?

Norden Farm is a busy arts centre in Maidenhead. I am very lucky that I have been able to return to work part time and now work three days a week.

How was going back to work?

The first few days were strange – I asked so many questions! But by the second week, my inbox was filling up and my to do list was increasing so I was back into the swing of things really quickly. I’ve been back a while now and I was thinking just the other day it feels like I’ve never been away. There’s something on every day of the week at Norden Farm and we’re a small department working on over 400 events and films a year, so we’re always busy and there’s always a buzz in the building. It’s working somewhere like this that has made my return to work so easy.

How do you manage to balance work and family life?

As my daughter is with family when I’m at work, I am really happy that she is happy (and getting to spend precious time with her grandparents and cousins). On the days that I work, I don’t need to worry about her breakfast, lunch or dinner – so that is a weight off my shoulders! Picking her up is a delight because she runs to the door to greet me. I feel like I’ve got a really good balance and that I’m not missing out. On the days that I don’t work, I try to make sure we do something fun (in between the chores of course).

What tips do you have for working mums?

I am so lucky to work in a really supportive organisation and Jane, our Chief Executive and Artistic Director, was incredibly supportive about my return to work. My tip would be don’t avoid talking about your return to work, it will

How do you manage child care?

Through family members.

be a weight off your mind once you have started the conversation.

For information on upcoming family friendly events at Norden Farm visit www.norden.farm

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