Families Thames Valley East Nov/Dec 23

EEHome FTRake Me

Thames Valley East

IN THIS ISSUE

Christmas Education Parenting

ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL WINDSOR CASTLE

A place where children ‘may find their happy ever after’ Find out more at stgwindsor.org

Families 180 x 60 231009_B.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk

STG ad (Round and About).indd 1

Issue 129 November/December 2023

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

15/07/2022 13:57 09/10/2023 11:56 Families Thames Valley East 1

Familiesonline.co.uk

UptonHouse HouseSchool School Upton Upton House School Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is

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

Upton House School

a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep andinPrep School Based the heart of Windsor, Upton House is With academic standards, high calibre staff and excellent Withhigh high academic standards, staff and aoutstanding thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years.

With pastoral high academic standards, high calibre staff and excellent care, Upton House children blossom and have a zest

Upton House School Upton UptonHouse House School School

excellent pastoral care, Upton House children and 2-11 years. for boysblossom and girls aged pastoral Upton children blossom have a zest life, continually learning and developing their abilities, havefor acare, zest for life,House continually learning andand developing their interests and talents.

We pride ourselves on developing for life, continually learning developing their abilities, Based in the heart ofand Windsor, Upton House isand high abilities, interests and talents.

With high academic standards, calibre staff and excel With high academic standards, high calibre staff excellent confident andNursery, happy with a love learning. a thriving Pre-Prep and Prep School interests and talents.

We children pride ourselves onof developing pastoral care, Upton House children blossom and have a z pastoral Upton House children blossom and a zest Wecare, believe that self-esteem happiness are paramount Based Based in the in the heart heart of ofand Windsor, Windsor, Upton Upton House House is have is to for boys and girlsfor aged years. life,2-11 continually learning and developing their abilitie confident and happy children with aand love ofSchool learning. each child’s success, and we pride ourselves on developing a thriving a thriving Nursery, Nursery, Pre-Prep Pre-Prep and Prep Prep School

for life, continually learning and developing their abilities, interests and talents.

We pride ourselves on developin confi dent and happy with a years. love of learning. for for boys boys and andchildren girls girls aged aged 2-11 2-11 years.

Withand high talents. academic standards, high calibreand staff and developing excellent confident happy children with a love of learning. interests We pride ourselves on Call 01753 pastoral care, Upton House children and have a zest Our enhanced curriculum is862610 rich blossom withor cross-curricular With With highhigh academic academic standards, standards, high high calibre calibre staff and excellent and excellent confident and happy children a staff love learning. email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk forinnovations life, continually learning and with developing theirof abilities, digital and our pioneering live-streamed events pastoral pastoral care, care, Upton Upton House House children children blossom blossom and and have have a zest a zest Call 01753 862610 or interests and talents.

We pride ourselves on developing run by our Broadcasting Club share our activities with our for life, for life, continually continually learning learning and anddeveloping developing theirtheir abilities, abilities, email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk 01753 862610 or confident and happy a loveCall of learning. globalchildren family with online. interests interests andand talents. talents.We We pride prideourselves ourselves on developing on developing email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk confident confident and and happy happy children children with with a love a love of learning. of learning.

A proven track record with outstanding scholarship

Join us for the journey success each year.

Call 01753 862610 or Callfor 01753 862610 or Join us the journey email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk Join us for the journey Call Call01753 01753 862610 862610 or or email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk

Join us for the journey Join usus for journey Join Join us for forthe the thejourney journey www.uptonhouse.org.uk IAPS Independent Prep School NACE Accredited School

2

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

...endless ideas for families of young children in

In This Issue 4-5

Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

News & information

®

@editorfamiliesTVE

EDUCATION 8 Growing sunflowers and learning maths 9 Meet the Head ACS International School Egham 11 Understanding multiple intelligences 13

PARENTING: Fairytales as a therapeutic tool

FamiliesTVE

Thames Valley East

@FamiliesTVEMag

From the editors...

It’s that crazy time of year again! Christmas! To help you plan, we have put together a comprehensive ‘Where to Visit’ guide on pages 16 to 19. In this guide we have listed festive days out, shows and where to find the main man himself Father Christmas. As ever, we also have our regular handy ‘What’s On’ guide on pages 22 and 23, which gives you an accessible, easy to reference list of events that we’ve found for you, all in date order.

There are also some great articles to read in this issue. ’Growing Sunflowers ADVERTISEMENT PROOF 14 EARLY YEARS: Developing

and learning maths’ can be found on page 8, ‘Fairytales as a therapeutic tool’ Please find below a proof your advertisement for the your child’s socialof skills on page 13, ‘Developing your child’s social skills’ on page Jan/Feb 2020 issue (No. 106) to ofvisit Families TVE. 14 and ‘Are you suffering from tech stress?’ On page 23 are 16-19 CHRISTMAS: Where

Thames Valley East

this Christmas

just some of the highlights!

WORK: Are you suffering from

forward to seeing you again in 2024!

Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially 21-22 WHAT’S ON dates, telephone numbers and addresses. Above all we wish you all a lovely festive break and look 23

Any changes to be made at this stage. techneed stress Any further amendments will be charged for.

Anna & Rach

Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your advertisement.

Editors:

T: 07867 514138 / 07753 414605 E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk Little People Media, 29 Furrow Way, Next Issue: Maidenhead SL6 3 NY

Rachel Bailey & Anna Collins

Jan / Feb 2023

01628 829761 / 01628 788058 Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk www.Familiesonline.co.uk

Tel: 01628 829761 / 01628 788058 Circulation: 17,000 Cover image: depositphotos.com

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

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

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

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

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

ASCOT 01344 206466 ascot@stagecoach.co.uk

BRACKNELL NORTH (WARFIELD) 07368 849169 bracknellnorth@stagecoach.co.uk

HENLEY AND MARLOW 07539753718 henleyandmarlow@stagecoach.co.uk

HIGH WYCOMBE 07539753718 highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk

MAIDENHEAD 01628 281128 maidenhead@stagecoach.co.uk

WINDSOR AND LANGLEY 01932 988086 windsor@stagecoach.co.uk Creative Courage For Life®

familiesonline.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

3

EDUCATION News Newsand & Views Information

Are you worried about your child’s development?

Are they having difficulties communicating or interpretating the behaviour of others? Are they noise sensitive or using repetitive movements or speech? Do you worry about their progress in school?

Do you feel you need to understand how your child can be helped and supported?

The Evolving Mind offers a new approach in healthcare, creating a facility where ADHD and Autism assessments are only the beginning.

The different team members will work together to provide not only the diagnosis but how best to help with ongoing treatment, giving the best opportunity for a confident and capable future. Their purpose is to empower young people to achieve their full potential. This innovative new private facility in Sunningdale has a team of SEN specialists, Paediatricians, Educational Psychologists, Speech and Language and Occupational Therapists who will work together holistically to guide families and children through their own journey. www.theevolvingmind.co.uk info@theevolvingmind.co.uk / 01344 292 292

Leighton Park shines in national awards Leighton Park has been nominated as a finalist for Senior School of the Year in the Independent Schools Association (ISA) Awards 2023, one of only three schools to make the final stage. The ISA is the largest independent schools’ body in the UK. This nomination comes off the back of Leighton Park also being acknowledged as a finalist for Independent Senior School of the Year in the prestigious TES Schools Awards 2023.

The co-ed school for girls and boys aged 11-18 is particularly well known for its STEAM academic approach and the strength of its music department. Among the factors being considered by the judges are the school’s distinctive emphasis on problem-based learning, values-led education based on the school’s Quaker foundation and nurturing future-ready leaders. www.leightonpark.com/imagine-better

Jump In this winter!

Jump In Adventure Park in Slough is the perfect indoor leisure experience for the whole family, whatever the weather!

The park consists of a trampoline park with wall-to-wall trampolines, giant airbags, battle beams, Wipeout, and more. As well as a Soft Play Park for our smallest guests and younger siblings.

Check out Jump In’s 100%-Fun-Zero-Stress party packages that include a party host and party room or area, including decorations and clean up, for an unforgettable and hassle-free birthday celebration!

A choice of party packages is available, as well as a 15% discount on Monday – Thursday parties during term time by using the code WEEKDAY15.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, the disco lights are turned on and the music up during two-hour After Dark Sessions!

The 2023/24 season has started very well for Luso International Fencing. After a brilliant performance at the U17 Nationals in Nottingham and at the U17 and U14 Elite Epee Junior Series, four fencers have been selected to represent team GB. Sofia in the Cadets Women's epee and Henry and Muaadh in the Cadets Men's epee flew to Budapest and Klagenfurt in October to fence in the European Cadets Circuit. Zoe, instead, will represent team GB at the Pentathlon Olympic Hopes in Poland.

If jumping isn’t your thing there is space to sit back and relax from the Jump In café as you watch the world defy gravity around you.

If you are interested in giving fencing a go, they offer free taster sessions every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday in Maidenhead.

www.gojumpin.com/trampoline-park-slough

www.lusointernationalfencing.com

Get unlimited Open Jumps for the price of one hour with the Unlimited After School Jump offer. Available Mondays – Thursday after 3pm during term time.

4

Luso International Fencing candidates selected for team GB!

Scan to Book!

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

News and News Information & Views

Why Babies Love Musical Theatre Music!

Families spoke to Mairi from Showstopper Babies & Tots about why exposing babies to musical theatre music is beneficial for their early development.

In those early, magical years of a baby’s life, music works wonders in enriching a child’s growth. Whilst there’s all kinds of music out there, Musical Theatre songs have a special way of capturing their hearts, as well as ours!

Musical theatre offers a diverse range of melodies and complex rhythms, stimulating a baby’s auditory senses and laying the groundwork for musical aptitude. The lyrics are often rich and poetic, giving little ones a head start in language development. Plus, the emotional expressiveness of musical theatre tunes helps babies understand their own feelings, as well as helping them become empathetic to others.

Musical theatre’s catchy tunes also boost memory and cognitive skills. Singing along with your baby, in my classes, is not just fun; it’s a bonding experience. Plus, it can spark their imagination and creativity, paving the way for future artistic passions.

Make musical theatre the soundtrack to a fantastic start in you and your baby’s life, creating cherished memories and nurturing your little one’s mind for a bright future.

Mairi’s award winning classes run in Maidenhead and Windsor and are well worth a try.

From Maidenhead to Tanzania – enabling brighter futures Children, families and staff at Highfield Prep are excited to be supporting a primary school in Tanzania to help send more children to school. Philippa Jacobs, Founder of Champion Chanzige, has met Highfield pupils to talk to them about the work her charity does to support teachers and pupils at schools in Tanzania through providing functioning classrooms, electricity, clean water, libraries and playgrounds.

Champion Chanzige does incredible work in Tanzania, empowering teachers and pupils and enabling brighter futures for everyone they work with.

In November two Highfield staff members will be travelling to Tanzania and will have the chance to teach for a couple of weeks in an environment which will be a far cry from Highfield Prep School.

Highfield is very much looking forward to being a small part of the charitable work in Tanzania and sharing knowledge and enthusiasm for learning with the children there. The whole Highfield community is behind this project and is looking forward to becoming more involved with the charity in the future. For more information about the charity, please visit https://www.championchanzige.com/ and if you would like to make a donation to help send a child to school in Tanzania, please visit: https://gofund.me/5e3976f1 www.highfieldprep.org

To book, visit: www.showstopperuk.com/showstopper-babies

St George’s becomes IB World School St George’s School Windsor Castle, one of the oldest schools in the UK, has been authorised to deliver the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP).

Driven by a vision to ensure students become ‘Real World Ready’, the school’s new IB World School status was achieved following a two-year candidacy period which saw St George’s fully embed the globally recognised curriculum framework from Kindergarten up to the end of Year 6.

The International Baccalaureate teaches fundamental study skills in addition to broad subject knowledge, encouraging children to take ownership of their learning and develop a range of competencies anticipated to be in high demand in the workplaces of tomorrow.

Emma Adriano, Deputy Head and Head of Pre-Prep says “this approach develops exceptionally well-rounded students who understand the relevance of what they are learning to the real world… the curriculum teaches not what to think, but how to learn.”

As a result of implementing the International Baccalaureate, the school has also been named as a finalist in the Independent Schools of the Year 2023 awards.

The illuminated night-time adventure that never grows old In the heart of Wellington Country Park, an illuminated kingdom awaits you, with even more Neverland to discover with our extended trail.

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY neverlandilluminova.co.uk

For more information or to arrange a visit: www.stgwindsor.org familiesonline.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

5

PICTURE CROSSWORD

Can you solve the picture clues and put them in the crossword?

7

4

1

2 1 2

NHS Editorial / News Piece 3

4

6

5

10

7

5

8

9

10

9

8

6 3

Every Sunday at 2:00pm

6

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

Herries Co-Ed Preparatory School & Nursery from ages 2 - 11 Cookham Dean, Berkshire

ISI INSPECTION REPORT ‘EXCELLENT’ in all areas

Apply now for Herries 2024

Just imagine – a school that combines the best academic progress in Berkshire, with award-winning personal development and sector-leading pastoral care

Join us for a tour and have a glimpse into an exciting day at Herries!

Registration Deadline for 2024 Entry Friday 17th November

Call 01628 483350 or email admissions@herries.org.uk www.herries.org.uk

Find out more at www.leightonpark.com/imagine-better

“Small places can do big things” Joanna Year 5

familiesonline.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

7

Education

Growing sunflowers and learning maths?

By Usha Patel Parents often ask me how to get their child interested in maths because ‘they just don’t get it.’ Luckily, they can give their child a lot of help at home in just a few easy steps.

Maths language It’s essential to keep maths language simple to build a strong foundation. Use words like ‘more’ for addition and ‘less’ for subtraction in everyday situations. For instance, you can introduce these concepts during meals: more roast potatoes, less sprouts! Repeatedly using these words alongside tangible materials helps children gradually grasp mathematical concepts.

Maths talk There are many words to describe each mathematical function.

When you teach your child the basic concepts of ‘more’ and ‘less,’ you are implicitly teaching them maths and how to think mathematically. By doing this, you are combining logic, sequence and memory. Having the basics in place can also allow you to introduce more words to describe the same function: ‘add,’ ‘together,’ ‘plus’ and ‘addition’ all mean the same.

Develop sequential thought processes Sequential thought processes are fundamental to understanding logical thinking. Parents can encourage these by discussing daily activities and routines with their children. By reflecting on how one event follows another, children can grasp the concept of sequencing, which is a vital skill in mathematics.

Establish logical thinking Children also need to develop logical thinking abilities. Fun activities like baking a cake or growing sunflowers can help introduce logic to young minds. These activities require following

Check memory Short-term memory is crucial for mathematical tasks. Insufficient working memory can hinder a child’s ability to hold and manipulate information during calculations. Playing memory games is an effective way to enhance memory capacity. For instance, counting games such as counting the number of cars on the way home can reveal memory strengths and weaknesses.

Finally, learning should be fun. When we are relaxed, we are more predisposed to absorbing what we learn. The funnier the delivery, the quicker it will stick. If your child is struggling and your efforts need to gain ground, take some steps to put the fun back into maths!

Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist at Raviv Practice London. If you need help to put fun into maths for your child, you can contact Usha at www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk.

Rhythm forms the foundation

Engaging in linear activities

Developing rhythm, sequence and logical skills are all prerequisites to mastering maths. Children can implicitly nurture these skills by playing a simple game of bouncing and catching a large ball by themselves.

Children can learn to count by, but comprehending number value represents a distinct skill set. Understanding value requires the capability to compare two or more numbers.

Comparative knowledge can only be applied with a firm grasp of linear processes. Whether they are growing a sunflower or making a sandwich, precise steps exist to achieve the end goal.

In the first stage, they bounce and catch the ball slowly, counting each time it hits the floor. The second stage involves counting and walking one small step every time they say the next number. The sound of the step should synchronise with the ball hitting the floor. Importantly, they should utter only one number per step taken.

Achieving synchronisation between body movement and counting speed demands significant practice but becomes rhythmic once established. The significance of this game lies in the ability to think, move and count with ease. If children find this challenging, you may count for them until they can perform both tasks simultaneously. Once mastered, children can up the challenge by walking backwards and counting in reverse order. Or try counting in times table blocks eg 3, 6, 9, 12.

8

a series of linear steps. Discussing each phase from beginning to end helps children understand the importance of logical thinking, which can extend to organising their school bags or planning for sleepovers.

When assigned the task of implementing each stage, children can observe that they are systematically progressing towards their goal. Upon reflection, children can discern the steps and understand why those steps are necessary to achieve the desired results. The key is to discuss each step in the process, emphasising what comes first, second, third, fourth and so on.

By repeating the experience, children can perceive how individual components are interconnected within the whole.

Crucially, a specific order must be followed to attain the desired outcome.

Linear processing facilitates teaching sequence, logic, mathematics and comparative skills.

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

Mark Wilson from ACS Egham

In this issue of Families, we talk to Mark Wilson, the Head of ACS Egham International School. Here, he gives us insight into his background, the school ethos, what it means to be an ‘international school’ and education in general.

Tell us a bit about yourself?

I am Mark Wilson the proud Head of School at ACS Egham. This is my second year at the school and it has been a fantastic start to the year. I am also a parent of teenagers, and being a parent continues to be the most amazing and wonderfully challenging experience of my life! I have lots of interests and hobbies but my main one is Martial Arts. I am a 3rd Degree Blackbelt in Taekwondo and am now working my way towards a new Black Belt in Kickboxing! Being in my martial arts classes is a great reminder to me about being a learner and this helps me stay focused on helping our students and teachers on their learning journeys.

How would you describe ‘The ACS International School’ ethos?

ACS Egham is a values-based school with a mission to inspire the world’s future thinkers and doers. Our ethos is to place learners and learning at the heart of all we do and enable all our learners to know how to shape their own learning. We do this by ensuring they have elements of voice and choice over what, how and sometimes where they learn!

How has ‘ACS’ evolved over the years and what have been the highlights?

ACS has a proud tradition of being an international school which serves over 50 nationalities through the global gold standard International Baccalaureate (IB) programmes.

These programmes enable our students to access Universities anywhere in the world. The big change in recent years has been how many local British families are seeing the value in an IB education and our approach. We have more local families in our school than ever before, and they are thriving being familiesonline.co.uk

When you create an environment in which people feel safe, confident, and inspired then they can achieve amazing things. I love how often our community of learners inspire me through their creativity, passion, and commitment.

stop the progress of time and with that progress comes changes that impact all our lives, from technological developments like Artificial Intelligence, to the need to protect nature and our planet and be sustainable with the limited resources. Schools must keep moving forward. At ACS Egham we embrace the changes that the world brings and know that we must understand them to ensure we can make a positive difference by being confident, caring, and effective learners who are ready to change the world.

What are the qualities of a great teacher in an international environment?

Do you have any top tips for parents when they are considering an international school for their child?

I would hope they are the same as in any school!

The only tip I have is come and explore what we have to offer your child and you as a family. Be brave, it takes courage to explore something that might seem new and different.

I am confident you will find that it is a lot more familiar than you think.

Maths after all is still Maths, the scientific method is universal, and the arts are always going to be richly open to interpretation as they capture the essence of humanity. What makes us special is how we approach this exciting experience called learning, how we place the learner at the centre of it and teach them how to learn not just what to learn! We also have an amazing community that lives by our value of ‘welcoming everyone’ so come and find out what you are missing out on!

part of our diverse, equitable and inclusive community.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your work?

Seeing the smiles on the faces of our students and staff!

Qualities like welcoming everyone, working together, being kind, imagining better and aiming high and then making it happen! At ACS Egham we all challenge ourselves to do these things every day and by doing this together, magic happens!

As for the international part, we are all connected in this modern world, being a school where your classmates come from countries across the world just makes school a richer, more exciting place to be. A place where we all learn from and with each other.

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

Education is famously slow to evolve.

Many schools look the same as they did hundreds of years ago and whilst tradition has its value it can also hold us back.

Albert Einstein gave this advice to his son. “Life is like riding a bike, to keep your balance you must keep moving forward”. We cannot editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

For more information contact: ACS International School Egham www.acs-schools.com/egham eghamadmissions@acs-schools.com +44 (0) 1784 430 800

Families Thames Valley East

9

10

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

Understanding multiple intelligences

By Zuzu Jordan

Look up the word intelligent in the thesaurus and you will find words like ‘smart’, ‘clever’ and ‘bright’. Traditionally in schools, pupils with regular high scores in academic or IQ tests are recognised as intelligent. Yet, as a society, we marvel at great artists, musicians and Olympians for their outstanding talent.

How intelligence is measured is a debatable topic and leaves many people divided.

Howard Gardner (a well know theorist) proposed that there are many types of intelligences.

Logical relates to someone who can carry out mathematical problems, hypothesise and investigate scientifically.

Linguistic describes someone who is considered word smart and can easily learn languages.

Spatial refers to artists and architects who can visualise with their mind’s eye.

Kinaesthetic is being able to use the whole body or parts of the body exceptionally well, such as a dancer or athlete.

Musical refers to someone who can perform, compose and appreciate musical patterns.

Interpersonal is working effectively with people, knowing their intentions and motivations.

Intrapersonal refers to strong self-awareness and using this understanding in everyday life.

Naturalistic is the ability to identify different species and work well with all things natural.

activities. What are they like outside? Do they naturally tap out rhythms in the car whilst the radio is playing?

Celebrate what they CAN do so they develop a sense of pride.

Does your child know which intelligences they lean towards?

Play to their strengths. For example, if your child is spatially smart, ask them to draw what they are learning. If they show signs of naturalistic intelligence, give them sticks and other natural objects to create patterns and images.

Children are required to learn to read. Choose books that tap into their interests and intelligences.

Discuss your child’s strengths with their teachers. The more they understand your child’s leanings, the better lesson planning can involve multiple intelligences.

Play games such as Junior Scrabble, Monopoly, making sound effects in a story, charades, puppets and role play or garden activities.

Children may show strong signs of intelligence in more than one area, perhaps with a tendency to a dominant one. Sometimes their intelligences may shift when exposed to different experiences and activities.

Nurture their particular intelligences with after school activities/clubs.

How do we support our children in harnessing their intelligences?

Read books that help children understand the importance of working on their intelligences, for example You are Awesome by Matthew Syed.

Not all educational establishments will fully cater for your child’s intelligences but parents can play a vital role by using some of these ideas at home: Start by observing what your child enjoys across a range of

Use online quizzes which help identify children’s intelligences.

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.

Bloom’s Taxonomy Established 1980 Established 1980 Providing careand and education for 2-6 ages 2-6within years within a nurturing Providing care education for ages years a nurturing environment. environment.

Ofsted Outstanding in all Ofsted Outstanding inareas. all areas.

FREE Montessori Education for funded 2-3 year olds FREE Montessori Education forEducation funded 2-3 year olds Free Montessori We can provide 15 and 30 hours for children aged 2-5 across all 5 days if required We can provide 15 and 30 hours (6 hoursall a day). across 5 days if required

How do you know if your child really understands a topic?

According to Benjamin Bloom, there are six cognitive processing abilities which reflect someone’s level of understanding: remember, understand, apply, analyse, evaluate and finally, create.

To see if your child understood their topic on the Romans at school, you may look into whether they remember facts first, before eventually progressing to creating something such as an amphitheatre. As you move up the hierarchy, the cognitive process requires a deeper level of thinking and ultimately understanding. familiesonline.co.uk

Baby Toddler & Parent Sessions (6 hours a day). available on Fridays Individual at Windsor Montessorivisits Houseavailable of Children

Individual visits available

Home Park, Romney Lock Road, Windsor SL4 6HX THE WINDSOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL Tel: 01753 868399 OR 01344 844592 Home Park, Romney Lock Road, Windsor, SL4 6HX e.menik@windsor-montessori.com

01753 868399 01344 844592 HomeTel: Park, Romney Lock or Road, Windsor SL4 6HX

www.windsormontessorischool.co.uk Email: Tel: menik@windsor-montessori.com 01753 868399 OR 01344 844592 e.menik@windsor-montessori.com

www.windsormontessorischool.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

11

Nurturing confident and capable futures.

Our stunning new private clinic is now open in Sunninghill, Berkshire

The Evolving Mind is a place where neurodivergent children and their parents can finally feel listened to. Our team of best-in-class specialists guide children and their parents through every step of the process. Together, we’ll develop a holistic approach from autism and ADHD diagnosis to ongoing treatment, that prepares your child for a confident and capable future.

For more information, please contact www.theevolvingmind.co.uk • info@theevolvingmind.co.uk • 01344 292 292 Kingswick House, Kingswick Drive, Sunninghill, Berkshire SL5 7BH

As an introductory offer to our local community, we will be discounting our Autism, ADHD and Educational Psychologist assessments by 50%.

To qualify for this discount the appointment must be booked prior to 1st December 23.

Godstowe

Discover something special

12

Stay and Play 7th December From 1:45 to 3pm

For ages 2-4

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

godstowe.org

Book a place

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

Fairy tales as a therapeutic tool Why do fairy tales hold such timeless appeal for children?

One reason is that children live so closely to the world of metaphor. At the foundation of all cultures lie rich oral traditions of myth, folklore, legend. Magical animals and young heroes fighting larger-than-life forces all spark a child’s growing imagination. Parents and carers continue age-old storytelling traditions when they instigate shared reading experiences such as bedtime stories.

How can reading fairy tales together be therapeutic?

Fairy tales can help children make sense of the existential challenges of life. When parents and carers ask a child how their day has been, often the response is simply ‘good.’ Not all children find direct questions easy to answer. Fairy tales offer a bridge to a child’s inner world through the use of metaphor. Crucially, reading a fairy tale storybook isn’t just about words. Add pictures and the characters’ challenges and responses come to life.

A space to voice real and conflicting feelings If we break down a fairy tale, the story is usually simple. A character encounters a difficult experience, person or obstacle and is helped by a magic guide to overcome it. The hero grows through the journey. A child will naturally project their own self onto a story: ‘it’s not me, but I recognise what’s going on.’

Ironically, it’s the distance created by a fairy tale that can help children feel safe enough to express their own feelings.

Resilience is not the absence of vulnerability, rather learning how to manage a range of feelings. When children truly feel heard and acknowledged, rather than hiding their feelings, they learn

© Sarah Pimenta

By Pia Jones

to digest and recover from difficult emotions, developing a core emotional resilience.

Making sense of relationships and empathy-building The world of relationships can seem very complex to a growing child. Reflecting on a character’s feelings in a story can help a child make sense of their own. Even if most children don’t say it directly, fairy tales can help them make links to obstacles in their life.

In entering the world of fairy tales, we activate children’s imaginations, including the ability to imagine what different characters are feeling. In doing so, reading fairy tales can help build empathy and compassion over time.

Pia Jones is author of the Therapeutic Fairytales book series, illustrated by Sarah Pimenta (Routledge and CRC Press). She is also a workshop facilitator and integrative arts psychotherapist (UKCP), having trained at the Institute for Arts in Therapy & Education. www.silverowlartstherapy.com

Therapeutic Fairytales series Inspired by children’s natural affinity with fairy tales, Pia and illustrator Sarah Pimenta have developed their own set of Therapeutic Fairytales (Routledge & CRC Press) to help open up conversations in families around specific emotions and experiences.

Into The Forest shows a boy with anxiety; The Sky Fox, a girl feeling lonely and The Waves, a girl suffering traits of OCD. A magic animal helper helps each child develop their own self-calming techniques through a nurturing relationship and an active connection with nature.

Each story has been brought to life with sensitive, vibrant illustrations to help children recognise they are not alone in feeling like they do. Children often say: ‘Yes, this is just what it’s like! I can feel like this sometimes.’ These books are designed to open up conversations with children about the different emotions we all experience and how we can learn to support ourselves.

Parents don’t have to model perfection; more an openness to themes and a willingness to share their own experiences when relevant and useful.

Images ©Sarah Pimenta familiesonline.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

13

Early Years

Developing your child’s social skills Some children may find socialising more difficult than others.

If your little one struggles or seems reluctant to be with other people, they may need some support to learn social skills.

Here are some things you can do to help.

Practise talking Chat about what you are doing, seeing or feeling to help build your child’s vocabulary and exposure to conversations. Role play, games and storytelling are all good for developing language.

Model good manners, such as saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’

This will encourage children to act this way with their peers.

Listen and take turns Children learn both verbal and non-verbal skills from the people around them. Try showing them what good listening looks like through your own behaviour and using games like Simon Says.

Find ways to make taking turns fun. Choose an object and tell your family they need to be holding it when they talk. Pass it between you. If your child is a little older, take it in turns to make up funny sounds as if you are having an alien conversation.

Show the importance of body language Use eye contact and body language with your child. Experiment by asking them to talk about something while you use poor body language. This could be crossed arms, looking away, fidgeting or frowning. Ask them how your actions made them feel. Then show them attentive body language. Take it in turns.

Teach them about personal space Consider teaching your child about personal space. Ask

Spaces Available for 2024 Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Maidenhead

Book a show around today!

Stimulating environment for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers Open 7:30am - 6:30pm

We are rated

GOOD

by Ofsted

Amazing Outdoor space Extra-Curricular activities available

07762 252 755 manager@monkeypuzzlemaidenhead.co.uk

14

them to put their hands on their hips and stick their elbows out to understand their personal space. Introduce the idea of boundaries by asking first if you can come into their space for a hug.

Develop their emotional skills When you help your child understand, express and cope with emotions, it helps them recognise the emotions of others and develops empathy. Teach them to problem-solve, guiding them with questions such as ‘What could you do?’ or ‘What could you say?’ Try to avoid answering for them.

You can also talk to your child about friendships and what it is to be a good friend. If you can, arrange and support opportunities for socialising.

With thanks to Action for Children (www.actionforchildren.org. uk) for this article. For further support on child development, visit its Parent Talk website at www.parents.actionforchildren. org.uk

Listen and learn Develop your child’s listening and concentration skills by engaging them with short, simple instructions and fun ‘listen and play’ games:

Musical statues The old party favourite; dance or jump around to music and when it stops, freeze! Simple and fun, especially when other children play along.

March and sleep Grab a noisy object and a quieter object; a simple wooden spoon as drumstick and rattly cereal box will do. When you use the noisy object, get your child to march around the room. When they hear the quieter one, they lie on the floor and pretend to sleep. Swap roles so your child can make the noises, test your skills and learn about taking turns.

What did you hear?

Hide a selection of noisy objects under a blanket and make a sound with one of them. Your child has to guess which one made the sound. Gradually increase the number of objects to up the challenge. Try making sounds from several toys or objects at once.

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

A CHRISTMAS LIKE NO OTHER

This kind of Christmas comes but once in a lifetime.

Whisk your family away to magical Lapland where you’ll meet Santa and his cheeky elves.

Call 01483 944 960 or visit SantasLapland.com Santa’s Lapland

Experience a Lapland trip you’ll treasure forever and book with a deposit from just £150pp and take advantage of our latest offers for 2024.

@santas_lapland

Families Magazine.indd 1

06/10/2023 16:37

Festive Fun Spot the Difference Can you help us spot 6 differences between these two festive pictures?

Join the Great Search for Santa and experience so many thrilling adventures with Santa’s Lapland.

You can experience reindeer sleigh rides, husky driven sleds, tobogganing and so much more.

No one knows how to make Christmas more magical.

Call 01483 944 960 or visit SantasLapland.com

Families Magazine.indd 2 familiesonline.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

06/10/2023 Families Thames Valley 16:37 East

15

Christmas

Where to visit this Christmas With Christmas just around the corner and the excitement in our houses building, Anna Collins from Families, puts together her pick of the best Christmas days out, shows and where to find the big man himself in and around the Thames Valley. Don’t forget to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

CHRISTMAS DAYS OUT We love a National Trust Christmas! Experience the enchantment of the season at Basildon Park as it pays tribute to the timeless tale of ‘The Wind in the Willows.’ Starting from Saturday November 18 and running until Friday January 5, immerse yourself in a wonderland of beautifully adorned trees, garlands, and twinkling fairy lights, all inspired by the captivating story. The magical atmosphere extends to the gardens, where you’ll encounter charming woodland creatures and whimsical decorations.

Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading RG8 9NR https://bit.ly/48Ir12I The Carnival of the Animals Lantern parade returns to illuminate Maidenhead town centre on Saturday December 9. A Norden Farm favourite, this free event will begin at Maidenhead Town Hall at 4.30pm and will process through the town. The Town Crier, Chris Brown, and special guests will kick off the celebrations on Norden Farm’s stage outside the Town Hall. You don’t need a lantern, but should you wish to, there are Lantern making workshops operating throughout November and December at Norden Farm. (lantern making): Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Rd, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org

Don’t forget to book ahead to avoid disappointment

Christmas at Kew is a great way to get into the festive spirit.

Discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. Don’t forget to look for a glimpse of Father Christmas as you wander beneath the larger-thanlife illuminations. Wednesday November 15 to Sunday January 7.

Timed entry slots from 4.20pm. Gardens close at 10pm. Selected dates.

Royal Botanic gardens Kew, Richmond TW9 3AB www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/christmas Christmas at Waddesdon is back on from Wednesday November 22 until Monday January 1 This Christmas at Waddesdon, be spirited away to a magical wonderland as classic tales come to life with new decorations in the house and dazzling new light displays outside enchant and delight. It’s a magical adventure as you enter the wondrous world of Alice in Wonderland, find the Snow Queen’s kingdom and fly with Peter Pan to Neverland. Don’t miss the Christmas fayre which runs up till December 17. Here you can soak up the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas with hand-selected stalls all housed in charming wooden chalets, surrounded by twinkling trees.

Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Aylesbury HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/christmas Christmas Lights Switch On Events Maidenhead Town Centre’s event is on Saturday November 25, along with the festive market.

Clewer and Dedworth Christmas fair and light switch on is on Sunday November 26 at 1pm at the Pirate Park. Windsor’s Switch On is Saturday November 18 along with carols and festivities.

Step back in time and enjoy a Festive Christmas Weekend at the Chiltern Open Air Museum which is on Saturday Dec 2 and Sunday Dec 3. Meet costumed folk in the buildings and see how they decorated and celebrated Christmas. Plus, make festive candles, listen to festive stories or join in with children’s craft activities.

Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Ln, Chalfont St Peter HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk/events/christmas-event Hughenden celebrates the Twelve Days of Christmas from Monday November 20 to Monday January 1. They are bringing enchanting scenes from the 12 days of Christmas to life in the garden, stableyard and manor.

Hughenden Manor, Hughenden HP14 4LA www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/oxfordshire-buckinghamshireberkshire/hughenden/events There will be lots of festive scenes hidden in Miniland at the Legoland Windsor Resort this Christmas. With live entertainment, characters to meet and a selection of rides and attractions available for the whole family to enjoy from Saturday November 25. For an extra cost, guests can add on a visit to Father Christmas’s Cabin (subject to availability).

Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY www.legoland.co.uk/explore/special-events/ legoland-at-christmas A popular trip out at this time of year is Odds Farm’s Christmas Spectacular Experience which runs on selected dates from Saturday November 25 to Sunday December 24.

The countdown to Christmas is on as the Buckinghamshire-based leisure attraction gears up for one of its biggest events of the year. Of course there is a big focus on the trip through the enchanted forest to meet Father

16

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas

All events still had availability at time of going to print (October 2023).

Christmas, then children will visit the toyshop where they can choose their gift from Father Christmas, plus make their own soft toy bear in the ‘Cuddle Creation’ . New for 2023 is the Reindeer Flying School. Visitors can join Flurry, the Professor of Magical Christmas Flight, and Rudy the Reindeer in an exciting new interactive Reindeer Flying School Show, as Rudy beats his fear of heights to join The Sleigh Team.

Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, Wooburn Green HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk/christmas-spectacular

McFadden, Suzanne Shaw, La Voix and Jon Clegg, is on from Friday 8 to Sunday December 31 at Wycombe’s Swan. This year’s panto promises to be another truly spectacular festive experience for everyone. The show will feature another award-winning dazzling digital set, using LED screens with animated scenes and mesmerising effects, plus all of the usual ingredients you would expect to see in a truly memorable pantomime.

Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk

It’s the Oxford Light Festival from Friday November 17 to Sunday November 19. On Friday November 17, between 5-7pm you can also join The Story Museum for some cosy stories in the Story Museum Cafe as part of your evening. Warm yourself up with a hot chocolate whilst listening to stories from snowy climes. Free drop-in activity (excluding cafe purchases).

The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP Tickets: 01865 807600 www.storymuseum.org.uk

HA Events are delighted to present their 5th year of Maidenhead pantomime, Beauty and the Beast – a ‘tale as old as time’ suitable for the entire family! Be their guest and join them this December at Baylis Theatre, Braywick Leisure Centre, as they travel on a pantomime journey of love and friendship. The battle is on for the strong-minded Beauty and loveable Dame Dolly, as they attempt to reverse the Evil Enchantress’ spell. This high energy show is packed with belly laughing jokes, well known hit songs, slapstick comedy and plenty of audience participation!

Performances run Thursday 14 to Sunday 24 December.

Braywick Leisure Centre, Braywick Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1BN www.maidenheadpanto.co.uk

In its second year of running, Reading Winter Wonderland 2023 kicks off on Saturday 11 November and runs till Sunday 7 January.

Enjoy rides and attractions, Santa’s Grotto with personalised gifts, an ice rink, German beer and much much more.

Hills Meadow, George Street, Reading RG4 8DH www.readingwinterwonderland.co.uk In the heart of Wellington Country Park, an illuminated kingdom awaits your family this Winter. From Saturday November 18 to Monday December 23, join Hope on a journey into Neverland as they take you through their ideas, re-discover their curious and wandering mind, and take you on a journey that will ignite your little one’s imagination along the way. Let children be immersed in the poetic paths as they walk into the night and embark upon the enchanting adventure of Neverland Illuminova. The illuminated night trail that never grows old. New for 2023, explore the awakened woodlands and reach for the stars with their extended trail. Enjoy a magical quest with your friends and family, there is something for everyone. A heartwarming adventure with big memories. There are limited spaces for a truly bespoke experience. Brighten the end of your year.

Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, Berkshire RG7 1SP www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk The Christmas sparkle continues at Windsor Great Park Illuminated which goes live on Thursday November 16 and is open until Tuesday January 2. Follow a path through woodland awash with colour as mythical creatures, sparkles of fireflies and dancing fairies blaze the way, the lake alive with flood-lit fountains and breathtaking projections.

Nr The Savill Garden, Wick Ln, Englefield Green, Egham TW20 0U www.windsorilluminated.com

Norden Farm are delighted to announce that their Christmas show this year will be Miki which is based on the book by Stephen Mackey. On select days between Tuesday 28 November and Saturday December 30. Miki is an inspiring story about friendship, courage and adventure. It features amazing underwater creatures, enchanting music and extraordinary puppetry. Miki, Polar Bear and Penguin live in a very far away place. It’s an icy world where nothing ever grows. One midwinter eve, they make a wish and Miki embarks on a magical adventure in search of a star...

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Rd, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events/miki The Santa Show is on Thursday December 21 and Saturday December 23. It’s Christmas Eve in the North Pole and the Elves and Mrs Clause are making final preparations to Santa’s sleigh before a crisis strikes! A short, live stage show featuring songs, audience interaction and a new story for 2023, plus a small gift from Santa himself. Recommended for ages 2+ Braywick Leisure Centre, Braywick Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1BN www.dk-pro.co.uk/whats-on

CHRISTMAS SHOWS Join The Theatre Royal Windsor between Friday November 24 to Sunday January 14 for a traditional panto performance of Aladdin.

Make all of your wishes come true and join Windsor’s favourite threesome on a magical (carpet) ride of adventure and fun! Returning for his 10th Windsor Pantomime, everyone’s favourite fox ‘Basil Brush’ is back alongside Windsor favourites; Steven Blakeley, Kevin Cruise and Anita Harris.Joining them this year is star of the Real Marigold Hotel Patti Boulaye.

Theatre Royal Windsor 32 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PS www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk/aladdin-23 Beauty and the Beast, starring Joe familiesonline.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

17

Christmas

Don’t forget to book ahead to avoid disappointment

The Story Museum

Odds Farm Park

The Lyngo Theatre presents a Christmas Show by Marcello Chiarenza, inspired by Tom Thumb at The Story Museum in Oxford. On Thursday 21 to Sunday December 24 and Wednesday 27 to Friday December 29. One night, tiny Tom overhears Mum and Dad talking; there’s nothing left to eat so they are going to leave him and his six brothers in the forest! Outwitting his parents and the ogre, Tom shows everybody that even though he is small, he is still mighty as he protects his brothers, finds the treasure, and makes sure they’ll never be hungry again. Performed entirely on and under a kitchen table, this classic story is brought to life in a playful and fascinating show full of Lyngo’s magic with feathery spinning birds, a flying house and a portable forest. Come and join Tom on his very big adventure! Adapted by Patrick Lynch, with original music by Carlo Cialdo Capelli. – Tickets £12 Ages 4+ The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk

WHERE TO FIND FATHER CHRISTMAS Daniel Department Store is transformed into a winter wonderland and Santa returns to his Grotto this year! Running 18-19 November, 25-26 November, 2-3 December, 16-24 December. Bring all of the family along to experience the magic of Christmas and be sure to tell Santa what you would like for Christmas this year... as long as you’ve been good of course! £10 per ticket and includes a gift.

Wellington Country Park Daniel Department Store, 120-124 Peascod Street, Windsor, SL4 1DP www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on/santas-grotto-experience-at-danieldepartment-store-p1791011 Santa’s Grotto is an exciting festive experience at Dobbies Garden Centre Hare Hatch and this year they’ve made it even more interactive. Select dates from Saturday November 25 to Sunday December 24. Take in the atmosphere as you walk through their enchanting forest. An elf will guide you to find the Little Seedlings characters along the way before arriving in the wildlife forest clearing where the little ones will make a special item to take home.

Your experience will then continue with a chance to meet Santa Claus - children are encouraged to share their excitement, wishes and stories before receiving their gift Floral Mile, Hare Hatch, Twyford, RG10 9SW https://events.dobbies.com/event-detail/?e=4256&r=v&v=60 This year, Santa and his reindeer are pulling up their sleigh, and he’s inviting you and your little ones to share in the magic of Christmas at Dorney Lake for breakfast on Saturday 16 and Sunday December 17. Children will receive a visit & gift from Santa, festive table activities, Christmas cookie decorating kits, mini chocolate reindeer and a breakfast of their choice. After your breakfast, why not join in festive paper crafts or wrap up warm and take a festive stroll around the lake and grounds.

Eton College Rowing Centre, Dorney Lake, Windsor SL4 6QP www.dorneylake.co.uk/festive-christmas-events#breakfastwithsanta

OCEAN THEATRE COMPANY PROUDLY PRESENTS

Music by Stephen Flaherty

THE BROADW AY MU THE HIT ANIM SICAL BASED ON ATED FILM

THE MUSICAL Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens

Book by Terrence McNally

Fri 3 - Sun 5 Nov book at:

BritVic Theatre , LVS

www.oceantheatre.com FIND OUT MORE

18

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas

All events still had availability at time of going to print (October 2023).

Meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto at the Legoland Windsor Resort where he has a special LEGO® gift waiting for each child. Booking is essential and entry to the resort must be purchased separately. With live entertainment, characters to meet and a selection of rides and attractions there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. From Saturday November 25 (subject to availability).

Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY www.legoland.co.uk/explore/special-events/legoland-at-christmas

a special one-to-one meeting in his Grotto, where littles ones can be sure to tell him all their Christmas wishes. Families can then head to the ‘Cuddle Creation’ in the Elves’ workshop, where children can make their own soft toy bear. Event runs on selected dates from Saturday November 25 to Sunday December 24.

Wooburn Common, Wooburn Green HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk/christmas-spectacular

Experience the great immersive Christmas event that is Lapland UK running from Saturday 11 November to Sunday 24 December (Please note they may already be fully booked, but we recommend joining their mail list for next year). Enjoy reindeer-driven sleighs, Husky-driven sleds, Elves around every corner, Spectacular shows, Tobogganing, ice-fishing, snowmobiles & so much more.. Ultimately follow the glow trail in the great search for Santa!

Whitmoor Forest, Swinley Road, Winkfield Row, Ascot SL5 8BD www.laplanduk.co.uk

Come along for breakfast and meet Father Christmas at Stubbings Café, Maidenhead. At 8.00am they will be offering a breakfast for families offering the opportunity to meet with Santa! Santa will walk between tables meeting the children and hand out a festive gift to ticket holders aged 2 to 12 years old. Santa will then read a Christmas story to all the children, after which each child will receive an ‘I met Santa’ certificate. On Saturday 9 and Sunday December 11 and every day from December 16-24 Stubbings Nursery, Henley Rd, Maidenhead SL6 6QL https://stubbingsnursery.co.uk/events/breakfast-with-santa-2023

Santa and his elf helpers will be at the Nicholson Centre on Saturday November 25 and December 2, 9 and 16 and 23. This is a free event set up by Maidenhead Thames Rotary Club, the Maidenhead Lions, the Louis Baylis Trust and The Nicholsons Centre management. Donations welcome in aid of various Rotary fundraising causes.

The Nicholson Shopping Centre, Maidenhead SL6 1LB

Santa loves a great ice rink! Meet him at Windsor on Ice. If you would like to meet Santa and give him your Christmas list, make sure you visit on the following dates: Saturday and Sundays the 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24 December. Email boxoffice@windsoronice. com for special requests for Santa or groups wanting to see him.

Alexandra Gardens, Barry Avenue, SL4 3HY www.windsoronice.com/meet-santa

Walk through the sparkling enchanted woodland to meet Father Christmas at Odds Farm’s Christmas Spectacular Experience for

All events still had availability at time of going to print (October 2023).

Norden Farm and Slot Machine present

s 0 et 2.5 ck 1 Ti m £ o

Fr

Christmas at Norden Farm

Based on the book by Stephen Mackey Tuesday 28 November - Saturday 30 December

FOR AGES 3+ YEARS

Centre for the Arts Maidenhead

01628 788997 nordenfarm.org

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF

familiesonline.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

19

GIF CART D

SLOUGH

#Jum pIntoHa ppy

Scan to Book!

STEP THROUGH THE WARDROBE TO

DISCOVER A WORLD OF STORIES... www.storymuseum.org.uk

Box Office: 01865 807600 Registered charity 1107809

20

2023 Maidenhead Nov Families magazine half page.indd 1 Slough Egham Windsor Marlow Ascot

03/10/2023 16:14:25 familiesonline.co.uk

Please email editor@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.

Ongoing MONDAYS IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

WELL BABY CLINIC Riverside Children’s Centre, Maidenhead SL6 7JB Also: Tuesdays: The Manor Family Hub, Windsor SL4 3HD Thursdays: Datchet Children’s Centre, SL3 9EJ (SatNav SL3 9ER) Fridays: Boyn Grove Library, Courthouse Road, Maidenhead, SL6 6JE First Wednesday of the month: Ascot Durning Library, High Street, Ascot, SL5 7JF www.rbwm.afcinfo.org.uk

MONDAYS IN NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER

NURTURE GROUPS (BIRTH TO 12 MONTHS) Riverside Children’s Centre, Maidenhead SL6 7JB Also: Wednesdays: The Manor Family Hub, Windsor SL4 3HD Fridays: Datchet Children’s Centre, SL3 9EJ (SatNav SL3 9ER) www.rbwm.afcinfo.org.uk UNTIL SPRING 2024

BRILLI-ANT: HOW SOMEONE SMALL CHANGED A BIG STORY The Story Museum 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP Travel through anthill tunnels, searching for clues and stories! www.storymuseum.org.uk

November FRIDAY NOVEMBER 3

ANASTASIA THE MUSICAL (OCEAN THEATRE COMPANY) BritVic Theatre, LVS Ascot SL5 8DR www.oceantheatre.com SATURDAY NOVEMBER 4

MARLOW BOTTOM FIREWORKS Burford School, Marlow Bottom SL7 3PQ www.marlowbottomfireworks.co.uk

What’s On?

MONDAY 6 AND MONDAY NOVEMBER 20

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18

MINI MONDAYS Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver SL0 0EB Theme: Getting ready for Winter Don’t forget to book car parking ticket 10am-12pm. 2-5 yrs www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-wedo/event-listings

NICK COPE’S FAMILY SHOW The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on

WEDNESDAY 8 AND 22 NOVEMBER

CRAFT AND SIP BY CRAFT COOP The Hoppy Place, Maidenhead 7-9pm. Bring your own table top craft.

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 11

AMBROSE FOLLOWS HIS NOSE The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on SATURDAY NOVEMBER 11

DAVID GIBB’S FAMILY JUKEBOX The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18

WINDSOR CHRISTMAS LIGHT SWITCH ON Peascod Street, Windsor SL4 www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18

ASCOT CHRISTMAS FAYRE Ascot Racecourse, The Pavilion, Ascot SL5 7JX www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18 AND SATURDAY 25

LANTERN MAKING WORKSHOPS Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead SL6 4PF 10.30am and 2pm.

Make Lanterns for Carnival of the Lanterns Parade. www.norden.farm/events/lantern-makingworkshops

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 11 TO SUNDAY JANUARY 7

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 18 TO FRIDAY JANUARY 5

WINTER WONDERLAND READING Hills Meadow, Reading, RG4 8DH www.readingwinterwonderland.co.uk

CHRISTMAS AT BASILDON PARK NATIONAL TRUST Basildon Park NT, Lower Basildon, Reading RG8 9NR Plays tribute to the timeless classic ‘The Wind in the Willows’ www.nationaltrust.org.uk

WED NOVEMBER 15 TO SUN JANUARY 7

CHRISTMAS AT KEW Royal Botanic gardens Kew, Richmond TW9 3AB www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/ christmas

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 19

SUNNINGHILL STREET FAYRE Sunninghill High Street SL5 9PU 12-4pm

THURS NOVEMBER 16 TO SAT DECEMBER 23

NEVERLAND ILLUMINOVA Wellington Country Park, Risely, RG7 1SP www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17

THE STORY MUSEUM CAFE WITH STORIES The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP Enjoy a warm drink and snowy stories as part of your Oxford Christmas Light Festival experience. 5-7pm www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 4

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17

WHO’S IN THE WOODSHED: WINNIE-THE-POOH The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on

NATURE TOTS Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre SL6 3LJ Booking essential. 18 months to 4 yrs https://www.bbowt.org.uk/events

MONDAY NOVEMBER 20 TO MONDAY JANUARY 1

THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Hughenden Manor NT, HP14 4LA Scenes brought to life in the grounds, house and stables www.nationaltrust.org.uk WEDS NOVEMBER 22 TO MONDAY JANUARY 1

WADDESDON AT CHRISTMAS (Wed to Sun and Mon Jan 1) Aylesbury, HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/ christmas FRIDAY NOVEMBER 24 TO SUNDAY JANUARY 14

ALADDIN PANTO Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames Street SL4 1PS www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 5

BURNHAM FIREWORKS & FAIR Burnham Park, Bucks SL1 7HR bit.ly/479xyTe SUNDAY NOVEMBER 5

MAGIC AT THE MOVIES FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR Gerrards Cross Community Assoc (The Memorial Centre) 8 East Common SL9 7AD Children’s film themed afternoon from 3.30pm & fireworks at 5.30pm

familiesonline.co.uk

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17 TO MONDAY JANUARY 1

SAT NOVEMBER 25 TO SUNDAY DECEMBER 24

ILLUMINATED TRAIL & SLEEPING BEAUTY IN THE PALACE Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, OX20 1UL www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/ events/christmas

CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common HP10 0LX Meet Father Christmas and much more! www.oddsfarm.co.uk

FRIDAY NOVEMBER 17 TO SUNDAY JANUARY 7

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 25 TO SUNDAY JANUARY 7

WINDSOR ON ICE Alexandra Gardens, Barry Avenue, Windsor SL4 5HZ www.windsoronice.com

CHRISTMAS AT LEGOLAND Legoland Windsor SL4 4AY See select dates. www.legoland.co.uk/explore/specialevents/legoland-at-christmas

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

21

What’s On? SATURDAY NOVEMBER 25

VISIT FATHER CHRISTMAS The Nicholson Shopping Centre, Maidenhead SL6 1LB Also December 2, 9 and 16 and 23.

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 25 TO FRIDAY JANUARY 5

CHRISTMAS AT GREYS COURT Rotherfield Greys, Henley-on-Thames RG9 4PG Greys Court explore ‘A Christmas Memory www.nationaltrust.org.uk SATURDAY NOVEMBER 25

MAIDENHEAD CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON AND FESTIVE MARKET St Ives Road, Maidenhead SL6 1RF SUNDAY NOVEMBER 26

CLEWER AND DEDWORTH CHRISTMAS FAIR AND Light Switch On Pirate Park, Dedworth Road, Windsor SL4 5AY https://cleweranddedworth.org.uk SUNDAY NOVEMBER 26

ALEXANDER DEVINE CHILDREN’S HOSPICE SERVICE’S SANTA DASH Windsor 5k Festive fun run www.alexanderdevine.org/2023/09/ santadash TUES NOVEMBER 28 TO SAT DECEMBER 30

MIKI Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead SL6 4PF Check specific dates within this timeframe.

Suitable for 3+ www.norden.farm/events/miki

December

Please email editor@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.

Don’t forget to book car parking ticket 10am-12pm. 2-5 yrs www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-wedo/event-listings

Lane SL6 9LF Fundraising for Thames Hospice https://bookwhen/artisg

FRIDAY DECEMBER 8 TO SUNDAY DECEMBER 10

FESTIVE FAMILY FUN AT WINDSOR CASTLE Pug Yard Learning Centre, Windsor Castle, Victorian Christmas activities. Free on admission.

(Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun only) www.rct.uk/whatson/event/1077914/ Festive-Family-Fun-at-Windsor-Castle

SAT DECEMBER 16 TO MONDAY 1 JANUARY

ST LUKE’S CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL St Luke’s Church, Norfolk Rd, Maidenhead SL6 7AX www.stlukeschurchmaidenhead.org.uk FRIDAY 8 TO SUNDAY DECEMBER 31

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST PANTO Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk SATURDAY DECEMBER 9

CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS LANTERN PARADE Maidenhead Town Centre 4.30-6.15pm www.norden.farm/pages/the-lanternparade SATURDAY DECEMBER 9 & SUNDAY DECEMBER 10

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Stubbings Nursery, Stubbings Lane, Maidenhead SL6 6QL Also Dec 16 to Dec 24. www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk THURS DECEMBER 14 TO SUN DECEMBER 24

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST PANTO Braywick Leisure Centre, Maidenhead SL6 1BN www.maidenheadpanto.co.uk SATURDAY DECEMBER 16

PRINT YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS STOCKING Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead SL6 4PF Led by Berkshire Printmakers. Age 8-14. £35. www.norden.farm/events/print-your-ownchristmas-stocking-for-children

MONDAY 4 AND MONDAY DECEMBER 18

MINI MONDAYS Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver SL0 0EB Theme: Evergreens

SAT DECEMBER 16 AND SUN DECEMBER 17

THE POLAR BUS (FROM ONCE UPON A BUS) Cookham Dean Cricket Club, Whyteladyes

FRIDAY DECEMBER 17

BABY BROADWAY Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk MON DECEMBER 18 TO WEDS JANUARY 3

SLOUGH HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AND FOOD PROGRAMME Slough Borough 4 days (during period above) of activities (arts/crafts/circus skills/sport/music and nutrition education).

Free for children who are eligible for free school meals or feel free to pay to join if not. www.sloughhaf.org.uk WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 20

ROYAL OPERA HOUSE LIVE: THE NUTCRACKER Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events/royal-operahouse-live-the-nutcracker-51 THURS DECEMBER 21 AND SAT DECEMBER 23

THE SANTA SHOW Braywick Leisure Centre, Maidenhead SL6 1BN www.dk-pro.co.uk/whats-on THURSDAY DECEMBER 21 TO FRIDAY 29

TOM THUMB The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP Christmas Show inspired by Tom Thumb www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on

Maidenhead and Windsor e: maidenhead.windsor@monkeymusic.co.uk

T: 01494 819138

Tuesdays - Cox Green Community Centre, Maidenhead, SL6 3AX Thursdays - Maidenhead Community Centre, SL6 7HY Fridays - All Saint's Church Dedworth, Windsor, SL4 4JW Rock'n'Roll for babies Jiggety-Jig for 2&3 yr olds

Heigh-Ho for 1-2 yr olds Ding-Dong for 3&4 yr olds

Sharing precious time together 22

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

familiesonline.co.uk

Work

Are you suffering from tech stress?

By Mandy Garner I once asked my son what he thought I did for a living. ‘Stare at the computer all day and then get very cross’ he said. This is the kind of levelling comment that keeps your feet on the ground as a parent. There you are thinking you were doing something exciting that you feel passionately about and all your child sees is someone glued to the computer, getting angry because the screen has frozen and they have minus ten minutes to get everything done before school pick-up.

Tech stress has not eased over time and is something remote workers struggle with more than most, simply because there is no one else to ask for help. I long for someone to come over, press a button or two and bingo, everything works.

But, unless a digital-native child is around (and even they are often nonplussed by work-related things), the main ploy is to rely on what I loosely call workarounds: basically any strategy you can devise to do whatever it is that your computer won’t. This can result in fairly surreal situations, which, when you look back on them seem really quite amusing but at the time are definitely not.

Take the other day. I have just changed my phone. I was after a better deal, having been suckered into getting a more up-to-date iPhone but was bedazzled by the promise of 5G and a special offer. In my house mobile reception is very patchy. One minute you have bars, the next…nada.

The world of work now functions on 2FA which means it sends codes to your phone. Not if there are no bars. I have to run up into the furthest corner of daughter three’s room and dangle the phone out the window to get them. This is not what I call

THE GREAT CHRISTMAS TOY GIVEAWAY

My Emotions & Me Book 100 available

Miraculous Magic Dolls bundle

progress. In any event, I have since been informed that 5G makes no difference to bars. Where are your tech advisers when you need them?

I didn’t want to stay with Apple, but felt I needed to in order to keep all my photos and videos. But my phone doesn’t recognise my Apple id password. One of its robots has assigned me an icloud.com address with a password which I don’t know because I didn’t even know I had an icloud account. This means I cannot get into any app on my phone, including Zoom and WhatsApp for at least seven days. I can reset my bank password in minutes but Apple takes up to seven days because they are so security conscious. One day they will shut me out of my own (online) life.

I had to go to a meeting the other day and do an online call on Zoom half an hour beforehand. As the Zoom audio doesn’t work on my laptop – no idea why – and I can’t access the Zoom app on my phone, I borrowed a laptop and headed to a quiet cafe opposite the place where my next meeting was.

Unfortunately, there was a big graduation ceremony taking place outside the cafe with groups of students and lecturers in gowns thronging the streets. Inside it was quieter and I even had a plug socket to charge the laptop. Then the cafe started playing loud classical music and it began to fill up with people. I found myself having to get very close to the computer to hear what the meeting attendees were saying. I think my colleagues must have basically been looking at my ear for most of the meeting.

By next week, all should be resolved... provided Apple verifies my id, although my phone informs me that my work gmail password is ‘compromised.’ The Apple man told me I should ring google for advice. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Sometimes I think maybe I struggle more with technology due to my age, conforming to all the negative stereotypes. But then I think it really isn’t an age thing. It’s more of a time thing. Time poor people need technology that works intuitively - which means modelling it on a diverse range of customers - and instantly. And they need humans, not robots, to understand their frustrations when it doesn’t.

Mandy Garner is editor of www.workingmums.co.uk, a job site and community for working parents. Visit the website for more working mum blogs, advice and support and to search for flexible jobs with family-friendly employers.

4 available

Edurino

3 available

Dragon Ball Dragon Stars bundle

4 available

APPLY at familiesmag.co.uk/go familiesonline.co.uk

T&Cs Apply editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

23

Join the

Free

holiday activities and food programme

this winter break

4 days of fun during the holidays!

Including arts and crafts, circus-based activities, fencing, gymnastics, music, nutrition education, and a wide range of sports. All free for kids eligible for benefits related free school meals with HAF codes (you can also pay to join in the fun if you aren’t eligible).

For more info and to book:

Funded by

CC-6885_Christmas 2023/04-10-23