Thames Valley East Issue 122 September/October 2022 familiesonline.co.uk IN THIS ISSUE FREETake Me Home Back to School What’s On
2 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk ISI EXCELLENTinspection SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Wednesday 28 September 6pm – 8pm WHOLE SCHOOL Saturday 8 October 9.45am to 12 noon Day and Boarding for Girls 11-18 heathfieldschool.net | +44 (0) 1344 898343 To book email: admissions@heathfieldschool.net Find out more about what makes our school so special, meet our Headteacher, and enjoy a tour of the school. Saturday 17 September 2022 10am - 12pm
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From the Editors….
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.
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Families Thames Valley East 3 Contents In This Issue
FamiliesTVE
Hope you all had a good break and managed some down time over the summer. Now the kids are back to school and a new term has started, we know it’s not always easy. If you’re experiencing a period of adjustment, we’ve got plenty of pointers on what to do if your child dislikes school or you feel like you can’t help them with their work, plus how to understand phonics and master times tables.
Anna & Rach
...endless ideas for families of young children in Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham 4-6 News & information EDUCATION 8 Open Days 9 Meet the Head - Claire’s Court 11 Mastering times tables 12 What to do if your child ‘hates’ school 13 Understanding phonics 15 Oh dear! I can’t help my child with this 16 Brilliant first chapter books for early readers 17 BOOK CLUB 18 PARENTING Getting children to tidy up 19-21 WHAT’S ON 23 PARENTING Parent goal planner @editorfamiliesTVE Next Issue: November / December 2022 Tel: 01628 829761 / 01628 788058 Circulation: 16,000 Cover image: depositphotos.com Editors: Rachel Bailey & Anna Collins 01628 829761 / 01628 www.Familiesonline.co.ukEditor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk788058 ENROLLING NOW Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds 01344ASCOT ascot@stagecoach.co.uk206466 BRACKNELL NORTH (WARFIELD) 07368 windsor@stagecoach.co.uk01932WINDSORhighwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk07539753718HIGHbracknellnorth@stagecoach.co.uk849169WYCOMBEANDLANGLEY988086HENLEY AND maidenhead@stagecoach.co.uk01628MAIDENHEADhenleyandmarlow@stagecoach.co.uk07539753718MARLOW281128 ABOUTASKOURTWOWEEKTRIAL Creative Courage For Life® T: 07867 514138 / 07753 414605 E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk Little People Media, 29 Furrow Way, Maidenhead SL6 3 NY ADVERTISEMENT PROOF Please find below a proof of your advertisement for the Mar/April 2019 issue (No. 101) of Families T VE. Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses. Any changes need to be made at this stage Any further amendments will be charged for Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your advertisement Thames Valley East ADVERTISEMENT PROOF Please find below a proof of your advertisement for the Nov/Dec 2019 issue (No. 105) of Families T VE. Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses Any changes need to be made at this stage Any further amendments will be charged for Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your advertisement Maidenhead and bWindsor ased in Find out more info at www.danceinspired.co.uk
® Thames Valley East
If you’re considering new schools, check out our open days listing on p.8 and there are also some parenting tips on how to get children tidying up on p.18, as well as our what’s on guide on pages 19-21. We hope you enjoy it.
Project: Maidenhead children get a community confidence boost!
A new Head of Drama has brought a touch of West End glamour to St John’s Beaumont School in Old Windsor. Scott Jenkins is a trained actor who is bringing with him a wealth of experience from appearing in TV series and blockbuster movies such as The Bill and Harry Potter. His first production at the school was the much-loved Lion King Jr musical which took centre stage earlier this year. After much rehearsing, and roles for every single boy in the Middle School, the performance took place in front of a full house. The audience was dazzled by an incredible stage setting and colourful costumes, created by the school’s Art Department and the boys Afterthemselves.thegreat success of the show, Mr Jenkins is excited to announce two brand-new productions for the coming school year. The Middle School boys will be taken to Neverland for their Peter Pan Jr performance and the Upper School boys can look forward to some fun in the swamp with Shrek Jr.
Two performing arts practitioners, Fay Austin and Amelia Wall of Stagecoach Maidenhead love their jobs so much that they wished every child could experience a little speck of the Stagecoach magic! At the beginning of 2022, when the world started to recover from Covid, they noticed a dip in children’s confidence and sparkle. More local children flocked to their classes in an attempt to gain their sparkle back. The concoction of love, fun and exciting classes was what they needed. Fay and Amelia decided that more children in Maidenhead needed this confidence boost and The Stagecoach School Project was born. Fay and Amelia are now working with schools in Maidenhead and surrounding areas creating free projects in line with the education
www.SJBwindsor.uk
New Head of Drama inspires performances at St John’s Beaumont
4 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk EDUCATION News & ViewsNews and Information A Wild Christmas Step into our enchanting wonderland this winter. Journey on the Reindeer Railway, visit Santa in his grotto and feed the reindeer. Pre book bealepark.org.uk 2 5t h Nov – 24th Dec Herries Co-Ed Preparatory School & Nursery from 2 - 11 years Distinctive setting in Cookham Dean • Small classes • 11+ Study Skills Sports at Bisham Abbey • Wraparound Care from 7.30am - 6.00pm ISI INSPECTION REPORT MARCH 2022 EXCELLENT in all areas WE’REYearsApplEXPANDING!ynowfor1and4entry Call 01628 483350 or email admissions@herries.org.uk www.herries.org.uk
Theframework.ladieshave used their own time to put this into action and the impact on children’s mental health has been great. Amazing work ladies!
www.stagecoach.co.uk/maidenhead
Join fans from all over the world to celebrate favourite Roald Dahl characters, stories and moments. Get dressed up as your favourite Roald Dahl character at a Dahlicious Dress Up Day event being held at school, by community groups and libraries,or host your own by downloading the Roald Dahl Story Day Party. www.clairescourt.com
Henley Royal Regatta 22 is an outstanding success for Claires Court!
During his lifetime, Roald Dahl wrote twenty children’s books and published forty eight books altogether. He created over five hundred new words and character names and his books have sold more than two hundred and fifty million copies worldwide.
Every year, the life and works of one of the best children’s authors of all time is celebrated on his birthday, 13 September.
Celebrate Roald Dahl Story Day
Claires Court commented, “It’s almost unbelievable to think that in only 12 months when we first entered a girls’ crew into the regatta, we would be coming away with the win! It’s a credit to the girls rowing program, run by Coach Jack Jesseman, which is going from strength to strength”.
Visit the Roald Dahl Story Day hub at www.roalddahl.com/roalddahl-story-day for resources to decorate your home or classroom.
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Families Thames Valley East 5 News & ViewsNews and Information
Three boats qualified to race with the boys quad competing in the Fawley Challenge Cup, the boys eight in the Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup and the girls quad in the Diamond Jubilee Challenge TheCup.highlight of the weekend went to the girls quad who won the Diamond Jubilee Cup on the final day. The girls quad was made up of Rebecca (17), Jemima (15), Hannah (18) and Nuala (17). Hanna and Nuala have just completed their Sixth Form studies and have been awarded rowing scholarships at Brown and Minnesota Universities Coachrespectively.TomJost,
Jo Rodhouse is a fully qualified and insured Neural Developmental Therapist practicing out of Marlow 07802 614735 / jo@jo-rodhouse.co.uk / www.jo-rodhouse.co.uk
An increasing number of children are currently being labelled with ASD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, auditory, visual & sensory processing disorders etc. Many struggle meanwhile with non-specific difficulties such as classroom learning, concentration, movement control, social interactions, anxieties and even emotional maturity. Many ‘labels’ have a medical reference, which many find helpful, however the terms merely describe a set of symptoms. As a Neuro Developmental Therapist, we see these myriad of symptoms as an indication of developmental delay and very often there is a simple explanation which is the presence of ‘Retained Reflexes’.
6 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk
In the womb and early stages of life, we are equipped with a number of reflexes to aid the birthing process and ensure the survival & safety of the new-born, such as grasping and sucking. As the new-born develops, the brain begins to mature and take control, so these early reflexes are no longer needed and switch off. This is an essential stage of normal development. If, however, these reflexes fail to inhibit they can have a huge impact on appropriate function and a child may display immature patterns of behaviour – lacking appropriate emotional, social & behavioural responses and co-ordination issues. It may explain why a seemingly intelligent child struggles to learn and thrive as others do. What signs of retained reflexes would I have seen as a parent?
What is the process? We offer non–intrusive, drug free Neural Stimulation Programmes which are performed at home, normally twice a day and should take no longer than 5 minutes. We then review progress and update the programme on a 6/8 weekly basis.
You can sign up for a 2 week trial now to join via www.stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow or www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe
Stagecoach’s slogan is ‘Creative Courage for Life’. This was demonstrated by a surprise visit from the school’s alumni for a tearjerking performance of ‘Seasons of Love’. It was an exceptional display of skills and talent from students of Stagecoach High Wycombe, Henley and Marlow and a taste for students to see what can be in their future as an adult and professional. The dedication and perseverance the Stagecoach High Wycombe Henley and Marlow team have demonstrated over the years was summed up beautifully by outgoing Creative and Further Stages student:
Are Retained Reflexes holding your child back? Could Neuro Developmental Therapy help? Clare Gosling reflects on 15 years of Stagecoach Excellence
It’s been an amazing month of outstanding performances from Stagecoach High Wycombe, Henley and Marlow! I wanted to celebrate being the principal for 15 years as well as the talent of our young performers, so ClareFest was born. After three patient years of waiting, over 350 students aged four to eighteen years have performed at multiple events across the Summer. After an ActorsFest celebrating drama, an Addams Fest tribute and many performances from one of their youngest groups, the Early Stages, all the schools came together for two weekends of a large-scale performance of MusicalTheatreFest. A total of thirty five teachers, assistants and chaperones helping backstage, over 576 costumes and over 400 hours of rehearsal helped make this spectacular spectacle possible! The show, the children and the costumes were fantastic. Week in, week out, everyone works so hard to create a safe, creative and playful space for our young people to learn new skills, overcome personal journeys, and reach for their dreams! They have given so many children and families incredible memories from these shows!
By Jo Rodhouse
What are Retained Reflexes and why do they have such an impact?
Clare Gosling, the mother of the team There’s a lot that Clare does for us behind the scenes Happy 15 years, we love you the most But I’m glad I don’t have to wear those dang waistcoats It’s been 11 years and I can’t believe I’m leaving but It’s been a journey I’ve loved every second You know I’ll be back soon, yeah I better be And I’ll leave it to [my sibling] to continue my legacy I’m so glad I got good people around me So, its bye for now to my Stagecoach family Stagecoach High Wycombe, Henley and Marlow opened originally in 1997 and continues to soar with a superb reputation for performing arts training in the local area. We are open for new students in the Autumn term and there are 2 discovery days events in September for students aged two to eighteen years. We also have two brand new classes mid week on a Thursday at the Henley College.
Evidence is often seen at the early key stages of development when the child has deviated from the norm such as difficult or delayed birthing, feeding or latching issues, failure to crawl, delayed teething or speech, easily startled, unusual sleep patterns, fussy eating, thumb suckers, toe-walkers, late in becoming ‘dry’ or bedwetting. As a consequence of delayed development we can see poor impulse control, sensory overload, emotional and social immaturity, anxiety and frustration, motion sickness, poor balance & coordination, easily distracted with poor concentration & focus, an inability to adapt to change. The classroom is often where we see the impact. The most common feedback we receive from parents is that children are simply failing to thrive or ‘I could always tell something wasn’t quite right’ – after all there is no better expert than a parent!
News & ViewsNews and Information
Way back when life was 2005 a baby appeared, ME! that’s right and now I was 6 when I started, a nervous kid with no confidence, but clean hearted Then I became a man like no other, I found a family and found a new brother, I found a new Furthers team, and I stuck with ‘em. I can sing, dance, rap, act, AND I GOT RHYTHM!
S E N I O R P H A S E O P E N E V E N I N G T H U R S D A Y 2 2 S E P T E M B E R N U R S E R Y A C T I V I T Y M O R N I N G W E D N E S D A Y 1 9 O C T O B E R W H O L E S C H O O L O P E N D A Y S A T U R D A Y 6 M A Y P R E P P H A S E O P E N M O R N I N G F R I D A Y 4 N O V E M B E R E M A I L : A D M I S S I O N S @ T H E M A R I S T C O M T H E M A R I S T S C H O O L W W W . T H E M A R I S T . C O M Book at: sjb.admissions@sjb.email01784494053 EXPERIENCE A SCHOOL LIKE NO OTHER SeptemberPreparatory School for boys 3 13 years + academicOutstandingresults + Small class sizes & individual care + Large estate with superb facilities www.SJBwindsor.ukEst. 1888 ConvenientlylocatedinOldWindsor
We are an Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding ’ nursery providing high quality day care for children from three months to five years. Set within bright, modern Windsor Leisure Centre, our setting includes a large toddler room, pre school room, a new snuggly baby room, and spacious outdoor garden. Come and look around today: Call: 01753 855543 or email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk Open 51 weeks a year – Accepts 30 hours funding – Highly trained team
Education
2-11 Deanyears.Lane, Cookham Dean SL6 For9BDa personal tour email:
HighfieldTwitter:SchoolFacebook:HerrieswindinthewillowsInstagram:www.herries.org.ukadmissions@herries.org.ukHerriesPreparatory@Herries_SchoolPreparatorySchool
2 West Road, Maidenhead SL6 1PD Friday 14 October From 2pm
Chertsey Road, Valley End, Chobham, GU24 8TE Friday 23 September
Thevisit-uswww.sjbwindsor.uk/admissions/sjb.admissions@sjb.email494053MaristSchool Kings Road, Sunninghill, Ascot, SL5 Thursday7PS 22 September (Senior) Wednesday 19 October (Nursery Fridaymorning)4November (Prep) Saturday 6 May (Whole School) 01344
35 Eton Road, Datchet SL3 9AX To book a visit, contact below: 01753 Godstowewww.etonend.orgregistrar@etonend.org541075Preparatory
8 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk
SchoolHerrieswww.heathfieldschool.netadmissions@heathfieldschool.net898342SchoolCo-edPreparatoryandNursery
Upton Court Road, Slough SL3 7LU Saturday 17 September (Whole school) 10am-12pm
Claires Court For girls and boys from three to 18 Fridayyears 23 September (Senior Boys open day) Friday 30 September (Senior Girls open day) Contact for an in person visit (Junior Boy or Girl) andCoworthregistrar@clairescourt.com01628www.clairescourt.com/events327710FlexlandsPrepSchoolNursery
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Meadowbrookwww.longcloseschool.co.ukadmissions@longcloseschool.co.ukSchool
Longformwww.highfieldprep.org/enquiry-CloseSchool
Malt Hill, Warfield RG42 6JQ School offers private tours all academic year 01344 www.meadowbrook.ukadmin@meadowbrook.uk890869
Thewww.themarist.comadmissions@themarist.com624291OratoryPrepSchool
Goring Heath, Reading, RG8 7SF Friday 7 October (Stay and Play for 2-5yrs) Saturday 15 October (Whole School) 10am Friday 2 December (Stay and Play for 2-5) 0118 984 Uptonadmissions/visit-opswww.oratoryprep.co.uk/office@oratoryprep.co.uk4511HouseSchoolWindsor 115 St Leonard’s Road, Windsor Berkshire SL4 3DF Autumn open days tbc For a private tour please contact: www.uptonhouse.org.uk01753registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk862610
For10ama personal tour visit the website 01276 Etonwww.coworthflexlands.co.uksecretary@coworthflexlands.co.uk855707End
Schools’ Open Days Autumn Term 2022 Call tobookplaceyournow!Please ring the school to check the Open Day or Evening is still going ahead. T: 07867 514138 / 07753 414605 E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk Little People Media, 29 Furrow Way, Maidenhead SL6 3 NY PROOF Please find below a proof of your advertisement for the Jan/Feb 2020 issue (No. 106) of Families T VE. Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses Any changes need to be made at this stage Any further amendments will be charged for Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your advertisement
London Road, Ascot, Berks SL5 Saturday8BQ 8 October 9.45am to 12 noon Sixth Form Open Evening (in the new Sixth Form Centre!) Wednesday 28 September 6 to 8pm To book a visit, contact below: 01344
School and Nursery Girls 3-13, boys 3-7 Shrubbery Road, High Wycombe HP13 6PR To arrange a visit, contact below: 01494 Heathfieldwww.godstowe.org/admissions429006School
St John’s Beaumont Independent Catholic School for boys aged 3-13 years Priest Hill, Old Windsor SL4 2JN Friday 30 September 01784
What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? For 30 years we have run a systematic, teacher training and development programme providing opportunities for adults of all talents to find their vocation and make a difference is really rewarding. Developing a unique curriculum that is constantly
My nursery leaders have to be specialists in child development, have endless patience as they permit their children to gather the skills, that love of enquiry and sense of wonder that as future pupils at school they will need to nourish them. In the middle years, teachers need to become great conversationalists with their charges, working with them to overcome difficulties and maintain their own expert knowledge so they pass on the ‘important’ things needed for subject and school success. At the top, teachers need to have expert subject knowledge; they’ll need that to hold their own with the amazing students they work with, who have access now to encyclopedic knowledge at their fingertips, if they are to continue to guide them successfully through their Sixth Form years.
Tell us a bit about yourself? After senior boarding school, I attended the University of Leicester to read Psychology and Biological Sciences. There I met my wife Jenny, engaged with charity work and student council and played cricket. Post uni, we both chose to become teachers, her first post teaching history at Maidenhead High School, mine as maths, science and sport at Claires Court. We have two grown up sons with families (both old boys of the school), share a love of gardening, run an allotment and continue to work hard at school!
How do you think education will look/ evolve over the next 5 years? In the classroom, recovering from the pandemic, we now know children are able to work digitally in all subject areas; it might be good enough to pass exams, but simply not enough. Collaborative working in a school community builds wider skills, encourages twin virtues of patience and kindness, raises qualities in leadership and responsibility, and above all builds strong mental health and resilience. School needs to be where children can take risks and fail, and have those opportunities for art, drama, music and sport that simply can’t arise through an academic prism alone. The visionary work of the early noughties, in which this country embraced subject breadth at the top have sadly been let go through the subsequent decade of austerity and authoritarian return to exams only as the measure of state school success. For Claires Court, being independent, we are able to forge ahead choosing broader routes and wider provision, as we have done since our inception - and I am certainly hopeful for our ongoing evolution in the years to come.
JamesAcademicWildingPrincipalofClairesCourtSchool
familiesonline.co.uk
How would you define the Claires Court ethos? Across the School, through example, expectation and being cherished, our pupils recognise that achievement is nothing unless it is underpinned with a moral sense of worth and personal values, those being “Responsibility for ourselves; Respect for others; Loyalty to our School and Integrity above all.” We recognise the importance of building confidence and self-esteem in each of our young people, and to prepare them for the next step in their schooling. We are committed to our partnership with parents and guardians to help our pupils achieve their full potential, and we promote an understanding of the need for care and consideration for others within our community and the wider world.
updating and changing to meet the needs of our children requires loads of research, and I absolutely love it when we take a new approach and make it ‘Claires Court’!
For more www.clairescourt.cominformation: or on social media @clairescourt James Wilding is the Academic Principal of Claires Court School, Maidenhead, leading this Independent School since 1988, together with his brother Hugh, Administrative Principal. Established by their parents in 1960, and founding pupils themselves, the brothers lead one of the largest proprietorial schools in England. Unique to Claires Court is the Diamond model they have developed; co-ed Nursery and Sixth Form, with single sex boys and girls provision between the ages of 5 and 16.
editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Families Thames Valley East 9
Education
How has Claires Court evolved over the years and what have been the highlights? Developing a prep school for boys into a fully fledged leading Independent Day School in England has to be the biggest single highlight of my career. Being brave enough to take over the nearby girls school, and making Claires Court truly inclusive as a successful family school for every child offers so much to our wider community and our town in general. Watching our Sixth Form leave for University and the world of work, best prepared for the unseen challenges in the future remains a great pleasure. This year, providing school places for 15 Ukrainian refugees in different years, making them feel welcomed and giving them the sense of a positive future has shown the school’s integrity still shines through.
What are the qualities of a great teacher? Teachers need to have so many qualities that it’s difficult to list them in one sentence, though they do need to love working with children!
10 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk “ Claires Court have consistently gone above and beyond, month after month to provide top notch education for our sons.” Junior Boys Parent RESPONSIBILITY t RESPECT t LOYALTY t INTEGRITY www.clairescourt.com FROM AGES 2 – 18 Every Sunday at 3.00pm Maidenhead Club Braywick Leisure Centre (Main TSL6MaidenheadBraywickHall)Road1BNel:07885294418 or 01753 882012 Please call to book your place. Email: office@tiska.com
• Ask Alexa (or equivalent AI) to recite a times tables or play a multiplication song and ask your child to try to beat it;
WHOLE
Use online games such as Times Tables Rockstars (https://ttrockstars.com). These are great to help develop speed and accuracy; Ask Alexa (or equivalent AI) to recite a times table’ or play a multiplication song and ask your child to try to beat it; Colour in the multiples on a 100 square; Rhymes are great for tricky multiplication facts such as ‘wakey wakey, rise and shine, 7 x 7 is 49;’
To help schools target support, the government have introduced a statutory multiplication check for Year 4 pupils, which tests them on whether they can recall their times tables up to 12 x 12.
Saturday 15 October at 10.00am
Write multiples on post-it notes or paper and make a game of aiming a ball at the correct answer; Match the question with the correct multiple choice answer; Use counters to represent a calculation. For example, children would need six counters to represent 2 x 3 and 3 x 2. Many children are used to this representation from Reception when they are taught arrays.
Showing your child how to spot patterns and connections also helps them to apply their understanding to more complex calculations and word problems.
By Zuzu LearningJordantimes
Mastering times tables
This test consists of twenty five questions and the children are expected to answer them within six seconds; however, there is no pass mark. What can parents do to help?
• Use counters to represent a calculation. For example, children would need six counters to represent 2 x 3 and 3 x 2. Many children are used to this representation from Reception when they are taught arrays.
• Colour in the multiples on a 100 square;
• Use online games such as Times Tables Rockstars (https://ttrockstars.com). These are great to help develop speed and accuracy;
Scan here to book SCHOOL OPEN MORNING
• Rhymes are great for tricky multiplication facts such as ‘wakey wakey, rise and shine, 7 x 7 is 49;’
It’s very useful to observe and work out your child’s preferred learning style - visual, auditory or kinaesthetic - so you can guide them in the most effective direction.
tables by rote for weekly tests was a feature of most of our school days. For some, these tests would bring on the cold sweats while for others they were an opportunity to shine. But, of course, it isn’t about drills just for the sake of doing well in the tests; times table fluency can determine how easily children can grasp new mathematical concepts, such as fractions.
• Write multiples on post-it notes or paper and make a game of aiming a ball at the correct answer;
Try some of these ideas:
• Match the question with the correct multiple choice answer;
Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find the Facebook page edumateuk.
Education The Oratory Prep School, Goring Heath, South Oxfordshire, RG8 7SF To reserve your place, please email our Registrar h.thomas@oratoryprep.co.uk or call 0118 984 4511 “The Oratory Prep School successfully meets its aim to respect each child as an individual, and to promote confidence and self esteem so that their talents are fully developed.” ISI www.oratoryprep.co.ukReport
Independent Catholic day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 to 13
Please find below a proof of your advertisement for the September/October 2022 issue of Families Chiltern (Issue 117).
Godstowe
Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses. Any changes need to be made at this stage. Any further amendments will be charged for. Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your advertisement.
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with insights, skills and tools to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
School can be a source of support and community as much as learning. It provides new experiences, exposure to different opinions, a sense of achievement, peer friendships and relationships with trusted adults. However, it can also be a lot to cope with, particularly when starting a new academic year. Children usually settle in. But what do you do if this doesn’t happen and if your child says they ‘hate’ school? It’s important to recognise the problem and provide the right support. School ‘hatred’ can arise for various reasons: Anxiety. This most frequently occurs during times of family stress such as a change in the family situation or when a child is about to enter a new school or phase. It can manifest as separation anxiety. Trouble learning. For some children, the jump to higher academic levels and the sheer volume of information they need to digest can be overwhelming. Loneliness. Making new friends can be difficult and children often fall out for no obvious reason. This can have a direct effect on self-esteem and turn into a dislike of school. Children who always feel alone will often feign illness to avoid school and school-related activities.
ADVERTISEMENT PROOF editor@familieschiltern.com
A happy and thriving day and boarding preparatory school, for girls aged 3 to 13 and boys aged 3 to 7. To arrange a visit, please contact our admissions team on 01494 429006 or register online www.godstowe.org/admissionsat
Poor chemistry with a teacher. Your child may complain that a particular teacher is ‘unfair’ or ‘mean.’ Remember, children know how to play a parent against a teacher. While acknowledging your child’s feelings, don’t automatically assume you’re getting the whole picture. Talk with the school to find out what’s really going Ratheron.than dismissing children’s worries, let them know they are heard. If they are struggling with a certain class, help them find ways to overcome their struggles. If they have fallen out with their friends, listen to them and talk about what they are going through. Helping them to find their own solutions will build resilience and restore positive feelings about school.
Bullying. If your child seems quiet and anxious, has few school friends or suddenly shows a drop in self-esteem, bullying may be a factor. Ask your child’s school to keep an eye out. If bullying is happening, the school will need to put strategies in place to support your child.
By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble
12 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk Education
What to do if your child ‘hates’ school
• If you’re stuck or worried, ask your child’s school for help. Supporting children learning to read can be as frustrating as it is magical.
Top Tips • Practise recognising the sounds.
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Families Thames Valley East 13 Education
I hope these tips help you joining the Phonics Club!
Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years. Self-esteem and happiness, we believe, are paramount to each child’s success and we pride ourselves on developing confident and happy children with a love of learning. Call 01753 862610 or email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk
Achop.trigraph
• Practise blending - this can be the key to unlock entry to ‘the club!’
• Help children to spot when two or three letters work together to make one sound e.g ‘ai’ in ‘rain’ and ‘igh’ in ‘light’.
• Read, read, read!
English is a tricky language and sometimes the same letters make different sounds. For example, ‘i’ can sound short as in ‘fish’ or have a longer sound like ‘eye’ in ‘find’.
By Emma Lewry
Phonics is one of those things that feels like a secret clubsome people understand it and to others it’s gobbledegook! If you have a child at school, they’re part of ‘the club’ and they may look askance at you when you ask what a digraph or blending is. For you and anyone who has a child due to start school, here are some tips to get you both closer to full admittance of the phonics club! What is phonics?
Phonics is a way of teaching children to read and later write. It is based on the fact that letters and groups of letters make sounds and when we put those sounds together they make words.
There are different groups of letters that make sounds: a digraph is two letters that go together to make one sound e.g. ‘ch’ in is three letters together making one sound e.g. ‘ear’ in As‘near’.children develop their knowledge, they build up and put together all of the sounds they recognise in order to read and write.
Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, headteacher and mother of two. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk) which guides families through starting school with courses, groups and a school starters planner.
phonicsUnderstanding
• Your child will be taught phonics in a specific way at school so ask them to teach you. It’s a great way for them to test their understanding.
14 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk Included with a visit to the Museum’s Galleries BOOK TICKETS NOW www.storymuseum.org.uk | 01865 807600registered charity 1107809
If the methods that your child uses are not familiar to you, don’t worry. YouTube, BBC Bitesize, Oak Academy and IXL are your friends. Simply type in your child’s year and the topic that they are studying (often found at the top of the worksheet) and the subject e.g. Year 4 - bus stop method, maths, into Google. It can be useful to start a session by running through a video with your child. Depending on their age, you may want to run through the video first before looking over it with them. This also really helps you focus and ensures you have your head around the topic sufficiently to be able to help explain it further to your child or answer their questions.
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As children settle back in at school for a new academic year, parents also settle back into the routine of being called upon by their children to help them with homework. But what if you have very limited time, you are not across the school’s expectations or you simply aren’t familiar with the topic?
Jemma Zoe Smith is Director of The Education Hotel (www.educationhotel.co.uk).
As a busy parent, you may only have a short amount of time in which to work with your child. Make sure that you both have clear expectations about what you will be able to achieve. If you only have twenty minutes, you may not be able to finish their homework together but you may be able to tackle a few key problems before they complete the rest themselves.
At the end of each session, write down what you have covered in three bullet points. That way if your child gets another homework on the same topic, you can remember what you covered. These will also come in handy if you have a younger child or for end of year tests.
If your child is struggling with something specific, reach out to the school and ask them if they can point you in the direction of some practice that you can do with your child. Remember you are all on the same team. Use parents evening to ask what topics are coming up and to find out when exams are. Forewarned is forearmed.
Education
So that your time with them is productive, set goals and a timer. Goals help you prioritise and the timer prevents you from watching the clock. Your child will also have your undivided attention during this time.
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Thames Valley East 15
By Jemma Zoe Smith
This year I supported two students with exam preparation and covered over fifteen different subjects with them - only three of those subjects are my specialism. So here is what I have learnt about supporting children in subjects in which you are not confident yourself.
Oh dear! I can’t help my child with this
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The Marvellous Granny Jinks and Me by Serena Patel, illustrated by Selom Sunu When Jada Jinks finds a box of magic tricks in her granny’s flat, she uncovers her granny’s secret dream of becoming a magician. Inspired by the first Black woman to be admitted to the Magic Circle, this is a fun, inclusive and magical story, with tricks!
The children of Wigley Primary love having Noodle the Doodle at school and are thrilled that he’s coming on the class trip to the seaside. But will Noodle be on his best behaviour or will the day end in chaos? Perfect for young dog-lovers.
By Sarah Campbell
Education Brilliant first chapter books for early readers
Noodle the Doodle by Jonathan Meres, illustrated by Katy Halford
Dragon Storm by Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Eric Deschamps and Ben Mantle Tomas can’t believe it when a mysterious stranger invites him to join a secret society and tells him that he has a very special power… he can summon his very own dragon! With a medieval setting and a strong dose of fantasy, this is the first in a thrilling new series.
There’s a Dog in My Brain by Caroline Green, illustrated by Rikin Parekh When Danny made a wish to stay home instead of going to a family wedding, he didn’t expect to end up trapped in the body of a dog. Meanwhile, Dudley the dog is off on the adventure of a lifetime. He might look like a normal 10 year old boy, but can he behave like one?
When your child is ready to move on from picture books, there are some wonderful first chapter books aimed at children ages 5 to 9. Many are highly illustrated, with stories that will last over the course of a few reading sessions. Here are some of our recent favourites, all available through your friendly local independent store or www.bookshop.org.
The Tindims of Rubbish Island by Sally Gardner, illustrated by Lydia Correy
16 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk
The first in a new series exploring our impact on the environment. Meet Captain Spoons, Mug, Jug, Brew, Skittle and friends, all residents of Rubbish Island, which the inventive Tindims have built entirely from thrown away items. Sarah Campbell is co-founder of Parrot Street Book Club (www.parrotstreet.com), an award-winning monthly subscription book club for children ages 5 to 14. Each subscription box includes a brand new book plus an activity pack inspired by that particular book.
Panda at the Door written and illustrated by Sarah Horne Pudding the Panda of Edinburgh Zoo really wants a family to take care of, just like her heroine, Mary Poppins. When 9 year old Callum is given a certificate to adopt a panda for his birthday, the two come together... and pandemonium ensues! Velda the Awesomest Viking and the Voyage of Deadly Doom by David MacPhail, illustrated by Richard Morgan Velda might be small but she is certainly mighty. Nothing will stop her from taking to the high seas to earn her place on the dragon ship Valkyrie, along with a wonderful, colourful cast of characters.
Alien in the Jam Factory by Chrissie Sains, illustrated by Jenny Taylor Get ready for aliens, jam, doughnuts, snails, one dastardly villain and a brilliant kid fizzing with ideas! Young inventor Scooter and his alien buddy Fizzbee team up to outwit Daffy Dodgy in a hilarious new adventure.
editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Families Thames Valley East 17 Book Club
What is a Bookwanderer? A bookwanderer is a reader who can travel inside of books, and that’s what my series is all about. My heroine Tilly discovers she is a bookwanderer when she is eleven and she travels inside books including Alice in Wonderland and Anne of Green Gables, and she realises perhaps there’s some family secrets all tied up with the secret magical community of bookwanderers!
If you ever have any downtime, how do you like to spend it? As you might expect, I read a lot! But I also love going to the theatre, especially immersive theatre, when you get to interact with characters and sets. I’m also learning bookbinding at the moment, how to make my own books from scratch and I’m really enjoying that!
As someone with a history of ‘booky’ jobs, have you always wanted to write your own books? The honest answer is no! I’ve always enjoyed reading and writing, and I knew I wanted a job that was to do with that, but I wasn’t sure exactly what was the right fit for me. I’ve been a librarian, a books journalist, and a literary scout and I really enjoyed them all. It was only when I had the idea for Pages & Co that I seriously started thinking about being a novelist! In your capacity as a journalist, what is the most interesting interview you’ve ever conducted?
I love that you bring familiar characters from classic children’s novels into your books. I have very fond memories of reading Anne of Green Gables as a child and I’m sure your books have as many adult fans as children! Do you have a favourite book/character that has inspired you?
With the nights drawing in again, autumn has us all reaching for a good book and here at Families we have the perfect suggestion for an adventure series popular with key stage two readers and, no doubt, their parents! Rachel Bailey speaks to Anna James, whose 5th book in her Pages & Co. series - The Treehouse Library, publishes this month and we have the full set to giveaway to one lucky reader! Families have all five books in the Pages & Co. series to give away! your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to editor@
Anne of Green Gables is one of my all time favourite books, and introducing young readers to her has been one of the greatest joys of being published! I think that I’d have to pick her – she’s such an incredible, timeless creation. She’s so kind and funny and has so many big feelings. Lyra from Northern Lights was also a big influence on me when I was growing up in the way that she stands up for what’s right even when it’s difficult and dangerous. With all the different roles you have, you must be a very busy woman!
I’ve been lucky enough to interview a lot of authors that I admire but I think the most exciting ones are always the authors that you love as a reader so I think my answer would have to be Judy Blume. I loved her books as a teenager, and she was very open and kind and wise when I spoke to her. But an honorary mention for Cary Elwes, who played Westley in The Princess Bride! I interviewed him when his memoir came out and I couldn’t believe I was sat having tea with him, hearing his stories about making the film! As a self-confessed bookworm, living in a bookshop is still my dream! Did you spend lots of time in bookshops as a child? What advice would you give parents trying to encourage a love of reading in their children? Mine too! I actually probably spent more time in libraries than bookshops as a child, as it was the best way to keep up with how much I read without bankrupting my parents! But I was a regular visitor to Waterstones in Newcastle, and the local indie bookshop in Melrose that I’d visit with my Grandad. For parents I would say one of the most important things is sharing your love of reading – making sure your children see you reading for pleasure, and talk about what you enjoy with them and ask them what they think. Also really encourage them to take the time to find the books they love, it’s okay if they don’t finish every book if they don’t like it!
Whatfamiliestveast.co.ukisthenameof Anna’s new book? A The Treehouse B The Treehouse Library C The ClosingLibrarydatefor entries is 28 October 2022 The Treehouse Library is available now in hardback priced £12.99. www.anna-james.com @acaseforbooks@acaseforbooksACaseofBooks
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When your child helps you pick up their playthings after a busy play session, you are on the right path.
What’s more, asking them to transition back to a reality in which they are no longer in control can feel like a physical and mental wrench. To help ease this, while your child is still playing, give them advance notice that it will soon be time to wrap up. Try something like: ‘One more game with your dinosaurs and then we can put them to sleep in their normal house (the toy box) until tomorrow.’ Just telling a child generally to tidy up can feel Evenoverwhelming.teenagers may not know where to start with tidying up, so little children will definitely need a helping hand. Make it clear it’s a job you will start together and then be specific about the tasks you want them to do. Make tidying up fun by putting on music and setting a time limit, so small children see it as a game they are playing with you. To make the task more achievable, as well as helping to develop their sorting skills, you could also suggest picking up just one type of toy at a time. Try something like: ‘You pick up all the blocks while I pick up all the crayons.’
The first step to teaching children to help tidy up is to understand how ‘mess’ looks from their point of view. It can be useful to schedule clean-up time at the same time every day, such as the interval just before a mealtime, to establish a habit. When a child is absorbed and ‘in the flow’ of an imaginative game it makes perfect sense to have all their materials and playthings spread out all around them. While it may look like chaos to us, having everything at hand means a child can stretch their creativity by using all the different items around them in new combinations.
Finally it helps to reframe your expectations. A family home doesn’t have to be a show place. See tidying up at the end of the day as a sign your child has explored the limits of their imagination to the full.
Bear in mind that if a child has been playing a fantasy game, they will be really proud of the little world they have created. So while your request to tidy up is perfectly reasonable, they may hear it as a request to destroy what they have just made.
As soon as they make a start, acknowledge how your child is helping so they have the confidence to keep it up. Once the kids are as quick as you, try turning tidying up into a race. Schedule clean-up time at the same time every day, such as the interval just before mealtime, to establish a habit.
18 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk Parenting Providing care and education for ages 2-6 years within a nurturing FREE Montessori Education for funded 2-3 year olds We can provide 15 and 30 hours across all 5 days if required (6 hours a day). Home Park, Romney Lock Road, Windsor SL4 6HX Tel: 01753 868399 OR 01344 e.menik@windsor-montessori.com844592 FREEwww.windsormontessorischool.co.ukIndividualvisitsavailableProvidingcareandeducationforages2-6yearswithinanurturingenvironment.OfstedOutstandinginallareas.MontessoriEducationforfunded2-3yearolds We can provide 15 and 30 hours across all 5 days if required (6 hours a day). Home Park, Romney Lock Road, Windsor SL4 6HX Tel: 01753 868399 OR 01344 e.menik@windsor-montessori.com844592 www.windsormontessorischool.co.ukEstablished1980IndividualvisitsavailableFree Montessori Education from September 2021 for children aged 2-5 Baby Toddler & Parent Sessions available on Fridays at Windsor Montessori House of Children THE WINDSOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL Home Park, Romney Lock Road, Windsor, SL4 6HX Tel: 01753 868399 or 01344 844592 Email: menik@windsor-montessori.com Education and play from 6 months to 5 years old within a caring and happy environment To arrange a visit telephone: Cheryl or Alexis 01753 833 771 T 01753 833 771 E mail@cotwmontessori.co.uk W cotwmontessori.co.uk • 2½ - 5 year old classes • 18 months 2½ year old toddler class • Baby, toddler and parent class St Mark’s Hall, Dedworth Road, Windsor SL4 4JS
By Tanith Carey
Getting children to tidy What parent or carer hasn’t felt weary at the sight of yet more trucks, play figures, crayons and LEGO® bricks to pick up at the end of the day?
Tanith Carey is a parenting writer. With clinical psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin, she is co-author of What’s My Child Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents, published by DK which is filled with practical tips for raising children ages 2 to 7.
up
Playtime, particularly messy play, is vital to children’s development because it helps them understand how the world works, as well as using their senses and imagination. But it shouldn’t stop there; tidying up is a great opportunity to help children develop cognitive skills, like sorting.
Exhibition is on
A common struggle shared by many children as they start school or return after the summer break is a lack of confidence, and this can stop them reaching their full potential. Whether you’re looking for a confidence boost for your child or just a weekly dose of drama, dance and singing fun, Perform is back for the autumn term with two exciting productions for 4-7s and 7-12s.
Local Perform Classes: St Peter’s Centre, 1 Thorney Lane North, Iver SL0 9JU 4-7s Tuesdays 4pm; 7-12s Tuesdays 5.05pm
To book a free no-obligation trial class visit www.perform.org.uk/try
MagicalPerformMerlin-theperfect
half-term Halloween treat!
01628 829761
What’s On?
“Perform is not a stage school” stresses Perform Principal, Lucy Quick. “Our classes teach life skills using fun confidence-boosting drama games which results in a celebratory end of term production. The primary aim of our classes is to develop what we call the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication.” This term, Perform 4-7s will venture into The Magician’s Chamber for some confidence-building fun with Merlin the Wizard whilst 7-12s will work on a funky festive performance of Ebenezer, based on the Charles Dicken’s classic, A Christmas Carol.
All Saints Church Hall, The Causeway, Marlow SL7 2AA 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm
4 Marlow Road Youth and Community Centre SL6 7YR 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm
Give the autumn term a confidence boost with
Boyne Hill Infant School, Rutland Road, Maidenhead SL6 4HZ 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays 11.15am
This October half-term, take your children on a trip back in time as they discover a world of witches, wizards, magic and mystery. In Ancient Britain, Magical Merlin is the most miraculous wizard ever. So when the baby King Arthur is born and jealous older sister, Morgan Le Fay, starts turning people into animals, it’s down to Merlin to save the day. With a spellbinding mix of magic, songs and dancing, Magical Merlin is a spectacular mini-musical sure to enchant the whole family! Suitable for 4-10 year olds, shows run from 24-30 October at The Fortune Theatre, Covent Garden WC2B 5HH. Visit www.atgtickets.com to book.
Give your creative juices a boost with a deep dive into the world of comic making at The Story Museum, finalist in the 2022 Art Fund Museum of the Year award. The Museum’s 2022 exhibition; ‘KABOOM! The art of creating comics’ takes you step-by-step through the process, from initial ideas through to fully realized story-line. With plenty of tips and tricks along the way from a host of different comic artists, you’ll be all set to go home brimming with ideas for making your own comics.
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familiesonline.co.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk Families Thames Valley East 19
Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk / www.perform.org.uk/try
Virginia Water Community Centre, 3 Beechmount Ave, Virginia Water GU25 4EY 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm
The Museum is also running a series of comic-themed workshops and live events throughout the autumn. Entry to the exhibition is included with the Museum Galleries where you’ll also find a Whispering Wood full of oral stories and an Enchanted Library where you’ll be able to step into story moments from much-loved stories including Winnie-the Pooh, Narnia and The Snowman. www.storymuseum.org.uk
If you’d like your event please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with details.
The term runs from September to December and children are welcome to try a free class at any point.
WinWINafamily ticket to The MuseumStoryGalleries!
Octoboom is the friendly, many-tentacled editor waiting to guide you through the KA-BOOM! Exhibition. For the chance to win a family ticket for 4 to The Story Museum Galleries, including a trip to KA-BOOM: The art of creating comics, just tell us how many tentacles an octopus has!
Answers by Sept 30 to editor@familiestveast.co.uk Comics’ at The Story Museum
‘KA-BOOM! The art of Creating
Hilltop First School, Clewer Hill Road, Windsor SL4 4DW 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10 TURNER AND HOOCH OUTDOOR CINEMA
07944478517 ADVERTISEMENT PROO Please find below a proof of your adver tise Januar y/Februar y 2017 issue (No. 88) of Fa Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS C especially dates, telephone numbers and a Any changes need to be made at this stage . Any fur ther amendments will be charged for Please contact us by return either to amend or adver
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10
20 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk
LITTLE LEARNERS (FULMER)
The ride will start at The Swan, 9 Mill Lane, Windsor SL4 Meet5JGat11am for an 11.30am start. Distance 8 ilies-1www.cyclinguk.org/event/gentle-ride-suitable-fammiles.
Lower Basildon RG8 9NW At Beale Wildlife Park, there are 160 species of animals – and families can get up close to some of their favourites. As well as animal experiences, the 40-acre park offers play areas, a narrow gauge train, cafes and beautiful gardens. Special events run in the school www.bealepark.org.ukholidays.
SATURDAY OCTOBER 1
OUTDOOR MARKET
OCTOBER
Oaken Grove Park, 32 Mulberry Walk, Maidenhead SL6 Messy6EUplay for 5 months - 5 years. See website for booking. Pay as you go and terms windsor-maidenhead-slough/www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/messy-play-available.
Fulmer Village Hall, Fulmer, Slough SL3 6HP Messy play for 5 months - 5 years. See website for booking. Pay as you and courses windsor-maidenhead-slough/www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/messy-play-available.
SATURDAY OCTOBER 1 WINDSOR CYCLE HUB GENTLE RIDE FOR FAMILIES
SATURDAYS IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER
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MAIDENHEAD TOWN SHOW - ARE YOU A STAR BAKER? High St, Maidenhead SL6 1QA Full details www.maidenheadshow.co.ukbelow
MAIDENHEADSeptemberSATURDAYSEPTEMBER3CYCLEHUBFAMILYRIDE
OUTDOOR MARKET Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead SL6 12-4pm4PF free www.norden.farmentry.
OngoingTHROUGHOUTSEPTEMBERAND
EXHIBITION
What’s On? If you’d like your event featured please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with details. Event times and dates do change, please try and check that an event is still going ahead before you head out. Deadline for inclusion in next issue (Nov/Dec) is 3 Oct
Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP Board the Story Craft and fly through a thousand years of Oxford’s story history, from ancient myths and legends to classics of children’s literature en joyed across the www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-onworld.
MAIDENHEAD ROLLER DISCO Braywick Leisure Centre, Braywick Rd, Maidenhead SL6 sure-centre/eventswww.leisurefocus.org.uk/our-centres/braywick-lei1DE
UNTIL OCTOBER 30 CITY OF STORIES
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 20 DINO DIG WORKSHOP Natural History Museum, Cromwell Rd SW7 5BD Perform your own fossil dig and draw conclusions about how dinosaurs www.nhm.ac.uk/events/schools-dino-dig.htmllooked!
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 3 WINDSOR CYCLE HUB GENTLE RIDE FOR FAMILIES
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 4
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 24
COX GREEN HORTICULTURE AND CRAFT SHOW Cox Green Community Centre, 51 Highfield Ln SL6 Calling3AX all children! Take part in this year’s show! Free for children. Starts al-showwww.coxgreencommunitycentre.org.uk/horticultur2pm
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17
The ride will start by the entrance to Bray Lake (SL6 2EB) 2pm. Distance 8 cle-hubwww.cyclinguk.org/local-groups/maidenhead-cymiles.
MAIDENHEADOctoberSATURDAYOCTOBER1CYCLEHUBFAMILY RIDE
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead SL6 4PF 12-4pm free www.norden.farmentry.
The ride will start at The Swan, 9 Mill Lane, Windsor SL4 Meet5JGat11am for an 11.30am start. Distance 8 ilies-1www.cyclinguk.org/event/gentle-ride-suitable-fammiles.
LITTLE LEARNERS IN THE PARK (MAIDENHEAD)
KITE FESTIVAL Boyn Grove Park, Punt Hill, Punt Hill SL6 6JD Run by Norden Farm Centre for the Arts. Bring kites created at one of their workshops, pre-owned or shop bought. As well as all the kite flying fun, there will be a bar, food stalls from local vendors, music and entertainment. Free event www.norden.farm/events/kite-festival-5012-4pm
SUITCASE STORIES Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on11am
SATURDAY 1 TO MONDAY OCTOBER 31 BRICK OR TREAT Legoland Windsor Resort, Winkfield Road SL4 4AY Spook-tacular activities to celebrate or-treatwww.legoland.co.uk/explore/special-events/brick-Hallowe’en
THURSDAYS IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER
Stubbings Estate, Stubbings Lane, Maidenhead SL6 Doors6QL open at 5.30pm. Good dogs ma-turner-and-hooch-pwww.stubbingsnursery.co.uk/events/outdoor-cinewelcome!
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 17
DAVID GIBB’S FAMILY JUKEBOX Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on11am
SATURDAY OCTOBER 15 BABY BROADWAY Wycombe Swan, HP11 2XE Interactive family concert for ages 0-8 Performances at 10.15am and 11.15am www.wycombeswan.co.uk SATURDAY OCTOBER 15 SUITCASE STORIES Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on11am more information please email bernice@littlelearnersuk.com or call us on tisement.
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10
MARLOW CARNIVAL High Street & Higginson Park, Marlow, S7 Fun day for the whole family Free event www.marlowcarnival.com11-5pm
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 3
BEALE WILDLIFE PARK
FAMILY FUN DAY Oaken Grove Park, Maidenhead ly-funday/1469753793464516www.facebook.com/events/oaken-grove-park/fami2-6pm
The ride will start by the entrance to Bray Lake (SL6 2pm.2EB) Distance 8 cle-hubwww.cyclinguk.org/local-groups/maidenhead-cymiles.
DEVASTATION AND RESTORATION
Stepping Notes Thame
Get the
If you are looking for a new club for your child, want to help them burn off some excess energy, or just keep them entertained, below are some great suggestions for you to check out! When you call, please don’t forget to say you saw them in Families Thames Valley East Magazine.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 18 TO FRIDAY NOVEMBER 4
SATURDAY OCTOBER 29
Clubs, Classes and Activities
SATURDAY NOVEMBER NIGHT Danesfield House Hotel, Henley Rd, Marlow-OnThames SL7 2EY Gates open 5.30pm. Display at www.mymarlow.co.uk/events/fireworks-night7pm below a proof of your advertisement for the July/August 2021 issue of Families Chiltern (Issue 110). CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses. Any changes need to be made at this stage. Any further amendments will be charged for. Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your advertisement. Green, Egham, Surrey www.dally.org.uk/steppingnotesnikhil@dally.org.uk01932363624 T: 01628 6 E: editor@ 50 All Sain Berkshire
SATURDAY OCTOBER 29
MAIDENHEAD SCHOOLS: ART, DESIGN AND PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION
5 FIREWORKS
TUESDAY OCTOBER 25
FRIDAY 4 TO SUNDAY NOVEMBER 6
HOWLAND TUTORS (MAIDENHEAD/MARLOW and WINDSOR/SLOUGH areas)
Expanding local agency (established in 1998 and owned by highly experienced teachers) offers individual tuition in twenty subjects including: all primary; Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English, French, Geography, History, Latin, Maths and Physics Further tutors welcome Tel. (01628) 477164 howlandtutors co uk best here
TERRIFIC TUESDAY
HOWLAND TUTORS (MAIDENHEAD/MARLOW and WINDSOR/SLOUGH areas)
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF A bicycle-powered, laugh-out-loud production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. www.norden.farm7.30pm
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles HP8 Autumn4AB themed activities and crafts. Standard ad mission price applies. Activities run from www.coam.org.uk/events/october-half-term-event11am-3.30pm
www
www
Pug Yard Learning Centre, Windsor Castle SL4 1NJ On the 30th anniversary of the Castle’s great fire come and learn more about the incident through crafts and workshops. Free upon admission to the Castle
Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St Giles HP8 An4ABevening of spooky fun for all ages in the unique and atmospheric setting of the Museum’s historic buildings and woods. www.coam.org.uk/events/halloween-spectacular5-9pm
FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR FAMILY RACE DAY Ascot Racecourse, High St, Ascot SL5 7JX Spooky activities, fairground rides and tacular-family-racedayeen-raceday-fireworks-spectacular/fireworks-specwww.ascot.com/horse-races-and-events/hallowfireworks.
pumpkin ready to carve – plus see what other Spooky Surprises there are in www.oddsfarm.co.uk/special-eventsstore
TUESDAY OCTOBER 25
LEGO MASTER BUILDER’S CLUB Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP 11am and www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on2.30pm
TUESDAY OCTOBER 25
THURSDAY OCTOBER 20
SILENT STORY DISCO Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP 11am and www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on2.30pm
Please
Please find below a proof of your adver tisement for the September/October 2014 issue (No. 74) of Families TVE.
What’s On?If you’d like your event featured please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with details.
Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially dates, telephone numbers and addresses. Any changes need to be made at this stage . Any fur ther amendments
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SATURDAY 22 TO SUNDAY OCTOBER 30
THURSDAY OCTOBER 27
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP 11am and www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on2.30pm
SUNDAY OCTOBER 30 HALLOWE’EN FAMILY FUN DAY Summerleaze Park, Maidenhead day/200022264392428www.allevents.in/maidenhead/family-fun2-6pm
THE HANDLEBARDS - TWELFTH NIGHT
The exhibition aims to unite Maidenhead schools and colleges by celebrating the creativity and talent of our local students. 5-10pm Free www.norden.farmentry
DINOSAUR ADVENTURE LIVE Wycombe Swan, HP11 2XE Interactive stage show Performances at 2pm and www.wycombeswan.co.uk4.30pm
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Families Thames Valley East 21 Please find
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SATURDAY 22 TO SUNDAY OCTOBER 30
TALES FROM ACORN WOOD Wycombe Swan, HP11 2XE Performances at 4pm Thursday and 10.30am and 1.30pm Friday. www.wycombeswan.co.uk
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HALLOWE’EN FESTIVAL
FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR Legoland Windsor Resort, Winkfield Road SL4 works-spectacularwww.legoland.co.uk/explore/special-events/fire4AY
22 Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham familiesonline.co.uk WANTED....DISTRIBUTORS If you have a car, a few hours to spare every two months, are reliable and want to earn some extra money, contact: Rachel on 07867 514138 or formagazineThamesFamilieseditor@familiestveast.co.ukemailValleyEastislookingdistributorsin Windsor, Egham & startareassurroundingtoasap. Mini 4+ Junior 7+ TryoutsFree2Week FREE 2 week tryout in any class! All classes held in Bracknell. FREE and discounted holiday classes and workshops. Classes for ages 7-24 Full time FREE performing arts sixth form college. Ofsted Childcareregistered.vouchers / Tax Free Childcare accepted. Mini Hip Hop Mondays 4-5pm Appear in real shows, £46.80 term Mini Cheer Sundays 4-5pm Take part in competitions, £50 term Little Actors Saturday 10.30am-12pm Appear in at least 2 shows a year! £100 term. Junior Hip Hop Mondays 5-7.30pm Technique classes and competition crews, £46.80-£117.00 term Youth & Junior Cheer Sundays from 5pm Take part in competitions, £125 term Junior Theatre Company Saturday 9am-12pm OR 12pm-3pm Appear in at least 2 shows a year! £150 term. Acting |Musical Theatre | Hip Hop |Cheer www.artemis-studios.co.uk.www.bracknellcheer.co.uk.01344info@artemis-studios.co.uk.429403. Wizard of Oz -Wilde Theatre, Feb '23!
Have a family meeting to talk about household rules, consequences and Searchrewards.online for trips or activities that you could all do together. Book next year’s summer holiday.
ANDCUTOUTKEEP
Bookdentistappointmentsandallhaircutsfortheyearahead.
TakeMarketplace.aninventory of your house and garden and make a note of necessary home improvements. Prioritise the top three jobs and note the steps to achieve each one, who will take them and when. Pin up your lists where everyone can see them. Older kids can get involved too.
Which new qualification would get you that promotion at work? Courses run by colleges tend to start in the autumn so research and book now.
Self Now Trysomethingnew:itmightbesuperinterestingorsatisfyinglycreative butrememberthatanythingthatfits yourschedulecanopenthedoorto opportunitiesandfriendships. Signuptoaclass,grouporactivity. Searchbyareaandactivityusingapps likeMeetUp,ClassPassandEventbrite. Buythenecessarykitorequipmentforyouractivity.
ByOctoberhalfterm
Earlynextyear
familiesonline.co.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Families Thames Valley East 23 Ellie’s parent goal planner OUTCUTANDKEEP ü
Refresh your social media and online profiles, update any pages that might be seen by a customer, recruiter or potential employer.
By October half term Order or borrow any tools or materials needed for your first DIY jobs. Start the first job on the DIY list.
Printablankmonthlycalendarforthefamilypinboard,readytoadd anyone-offeventsandholidays. Bookdentistappointmentsandallhaircutsfortheyearahead.
ByOctoberhalfterm
Family Now Puttermdatesintoyourphone, calendarorplannerforthewhole Printyear.andpinupaweekly timetableforofficehours,school timings,pickupanddropoff arrangements,homeworkandclubs/activities(includingyourown).
Sign up to a class, group or activity. Search by area and activity using apps like Meet Up, Class Pass and Eventbrite. Buy the necessary kit or equipment for your activity.
As school re-opens and we settle back into routine, here’s a planner from writer and parent, Ellie Malt, designed to help everyone in the family focus on their annual goals. Ellie suggests pinning it up to keep everyone’s goals in sight!
ByOctoberhalfterm
Earlynextyear Head,HeartandHandsrepresentthethreeaspectsofyouthatneed equalattention.Writedowneachofthesethreewordsatthetopofa column.Listyourdailyactivitiesundereachheading.Typically,oneof thesecolumnswillbeshorterthantherest.Findapersonalisedgoal thataddssomethingtotheshortestcolumn!
OrderorborrowanytoolsormaterialsneededforyourfirstDIYjobs. StartthefirstjobontheDIYlist. Earlynextyear CompletemostofthejobsontheDIYlist. Callinadecorator,handymanorgardenertofinishanyjobsleft undone.
Trysomethingnew:itmightbesuperinterestingorsatisfyinglycreative butrememberthatanythingthatfits yourschedulecanopenthedoorto opportunitiesandfriendships. Signuptoaclass,grouporactivity. Searchbyareaandactivityusingapps likeMeetUp,ClassPassandEventbrite.
Family Now Puttermdatesintoyourphone, calendarorplannerforthewhole Printyear.andpinupaweekly timetableforofficehours,school timings,pickupanddropoff arrangements,homeworkandclubs/activities(includingyourown). Compilearotatingweeklymealplanforthetermahead. Scheduleaweeklyreminderforyourfoodshoppingorderintoyour personalcalendar. ByOctoberhalfterm
LookonappslikeUDEMYorYouTubefortutorialsandwebinarsto developyoursoftwareskills.Manyofthesecanbedoneatanytime andarefree.Postalinktothecourseinyourcalendar.
Asschoolre-opensandwesettlebackinto routine,here’saplannerfromwriterand parent,EllieMalt,designedtohelpeveryone inthefamilyfocusontheirannualgoals. Elliesuggestspinningituptokeep everyone’sgoalsinsight!
Earlynextyear
ü
Ellie’sparentgoalplanner
Self Now
Booknextyear’ssummerholiday. Arrangelongdistancetripstoseefamilyandfriends. Work Now Whichnewqualificationwould getyouthatpromotionat work?Coursesrunbycolleges tendtostartintheautumnso researchandbooknow. ByOctoberhalfterm
StartChristmasplanning;setbudget,listpresents.
Work Now
Self Now
Text three friends you haven’t see for ages and invite them around or arrange some fun, grown up nights out/or lunches for you and your friends.
Arrangelongdistancetripstoseefamilyandfriends. Work Now Whichnewqualificationwould getyouthatpromotionat work?Coursesrunbycolleges tendtostartintheautumnso researchandbooknow. ByOctoberhalfterm
Put term dates into your phone, calendar or planner for the whole Printyear. and pin up a weekly timetable for office hours, school timings, pick up and drop off arrangements, homework and clubs/activities (including your own).
Printablankmonthlycalendarforthefamilypinboard,readytoadd anyone-offeventsandholidays.
Arrange long distance trips to see family and friends.
Print a blank monthly calendar for the family pinboard, ready to add any one-off events and holidays.
Work not going well? Update your CV and test the water by posting it on a jobs website.
Home Now Declutter and clear the decks: bag up old clothes, toys and electricals and take them to a charity shop or recycling bin. Post any large or valuable items on Ebay or Facebook
Have the talk: tell your employer or clients about any new skills you’ve gained in the last year and tackle tricky subjects like letting your employer know you’re keen to get promoted or informing your clients about price rises.
ByOctoberhalfterm
StartChristmasplanning;setbudget,listpresents.
Textthreefriendsyouhaven’tseeforagesandinvitethemaroundor arrangesomefun,grownupnightsout/orlunchesforyouandyour friends.
By October half term
Earlynextyear Head,HeartandHandsrepresentthethreeaspectsofyouthatneed equalattention.Writedowneachofthesethreewordsatthetopofa column.Listyourdailyactivitiesundereachheading.Typically,oneof thesecolumnswillbeshorterthantherest.Findapersonalisedgoal thataddssomethingtotheshortestcolumn!
Booknextyear’ssummerholiday.
Havethetalk:tellyouremployerorclientsaboutanynewskills you’vegainedinthelastyearandtackletrickysubjectslikeletting youremployerknowyou’rekeentogetpromotedorinformingyour clientsaboutpricerises. Refreshyoursocialmediaandonlineprofiles,updateanypagesthat mightbeseenbyacustomer,recruiterorpotentialemployer. Worknotgoingwell?UpdateyourCVandtestthewaterbypostingit onajobswebsite. Home Now Declutterandclearthedecks: bagupoldclothes,toysand electricalsandtakethemtoa charityshoporrecyclingbin. Postanylargeorvaluable itemsonEbayorFacebook inventoryMarketplace.Takeanofyour houseandgardenandmake anoteofnecessaryhomeimprovements.Prioritisethetopthree jobsandnotethestepstoachieveeachone,whowilltakethemand when.Pinupyourlistswhereeveryonecanseethem.Olderkidscan getinvolvedtoo.
Earlynextyear CompletemostofthejobsontheDIYlist. Callinadecorator,handymanorgardenertofinishanyjobsleft undone.
Schedule a weekly reminder for your food shopping order into your personal calendar. By October half term
Haveafamilymeetingtotalkabouthouseholdrules,consequences and onlinerewards.Searchfortripsoractivitiesthatyoucouldalldotogether.
Head, Heart and Hands represent the three aspects of you that need equal attention. Write down each of these three words at the top of a column. List your daily activities under each heading. Typically, one of these columns will be shorter than the rest. Find a personalised goal that adds something to the shortest column!
Havethetalk:tellyouremployerorclientsaboutanynewskills you’vegainedinthelastyearandtackletrickysubjectslikeletting youremployerknowyou’rekeentogetpromotedorinformingyour clientsaboutpricerises. Refreshyoursocialmediaandonlineprofiles,updateanypagesthat mightbeseenbyacustomer,recruiterorpotentialemployer. Worknotgoingwell?UpdateyourCVandtestthewaterbypostingit onajobswebsite. Home Now Declutterandclearthedecks: bagupoldclothes,toysand electricalsandtakethemtoa charityshoporrecyclingbin. Postanylargeorvaluable itemsonEbayorFacebook inventoryMarketplace.Takeanofyour houseandgardenandmake anoteofnecessaryhomeimprovements.Prioritisethetopthree jobsandnotethestepstoachieveeachone,whowilltakethemand when.Pinupyourlistswhereeveryonecanseethem.Olderkidscan getinvolvedtoo.
OrderorborrowanytoolsormaterialsneededforyourfirstDIYjobs. StartthefirstjobontheDIYlist.
Textthreefriendsyouhaven’tseeforagesandinvitethemaroundor arrangesomefun,grownupnightsout/orlunchesforyouandyour friends.
Haveafamilymeetingtotalkabouthouseholdrules,consequences and onlinerewards.Searchfortripsoractivitiesthatyoucouldalldotogether.
Compile a rotating weekly meal plan for the term ahead.
Look on apps like UDEMY or YouTube for tutorials and webinars to develop your software skills. Many of these can be done at any time and are free. Post a link to the course in your calendar.
LookonappslikeUDEMYorYouTubefortutorialsandwebinarsto developyoursoftwareskills.Manyofthesecanbedoneatanytime andarefree.Postalinktothecourseinyourcalendar.
Try something new: it might be superinteresting or satisfyingly creative but remember that anything that fits your schedule can open the door to opportunities and friendships.
Earlynextyear
Early next year Complete most of the jobs on the DIY list. Call in a decorator, handyman or gardener to finish any jobs left undone.
Book dentist appointments and all haircuts for the year ahead. Start Christmas planning; set budget, list presents.
Family Now
Compilearotatingweeklymealplanforthetermahead. Scheduleaweeklyreminderforyourfoodshoppingorderintoyour personalcalendar. ByOctoberhalfterm
Asschoolre-opensandwesettlebackinto routine,here’saplannerfromwriterand parent,EllieMalt,designedtohelpeveryone inthefamilyfocusontheirannualgoals. Elliesuggestspinningituptokeep everyone’sgoalsinsight!
ANDCUTOUTKEEP
Earlynextyear
ü
Early next year
By October half term
Ellie’sparentgoalplanner
Buythenecessarykitorequipmentforyouractivity.
Early next year
Early next year
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