Thames Valley East March/April 2012 - Issue 59
YES, YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL! Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career. If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle, please call Diana Page 01235 533 362
The really useful magazine for parents of children between 0 and 12 Packed with information and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham
Stunning 4 Bedroom/ 3 Bathroom Home Perfect for your Florida Holiday! • Furnished to a luxurious standard • Within a 5 Star Resort perfect for Families • 15 minutes from Disney’s Magic Kingdom • No increase in pricing for School Holidays quinnvillasregalpalms@aol.co.uk www.villarentalregalpalms.com Tel: 01628 410736 or 07926 751243
Owners of Big on Bouncing
Do you have total Squishbosh?
Fun party games with meaning Call Pete on 07721 422554 or 01628 821145 or email: pete_holmes@tiscali.co.uk
ORCHARD Academy of Dance & Theatre Arts Est. 1981 – Principal: Jean Orchard L.I.S.T.D.
L RO EN W! NO
2 NEW CLASSES for BOYS & GIRLS
Street Dance & Musical Theatre Ballet ~ Tap ~ Modern Theatre Dance ~ Adult Tap Classes Outstanding Exam Results and Spectacular Shows
01753 663484 2
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MARCH/APRIL 2012
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News & Info Education News Clubs & Classes News Under-5's Special Spotlight on Nurseries Olympics Health Mothering Sunday Spring Days Out Competitions Easter Activities Time Out Arts & Crafts Ed’s Reading Room Bumps & Babes Mums Who Mean Business Classifieds
PO Box 3902, Maidenhead, SL60 1AD web: FamiliesTVEast.co.uk tel: 01628 627586 fax: 08717 146 305 (calls cost 10p/min) e-mail: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editor: Claire Winter circulation: 19,000 next issue: May/June 2012 - due out: May 1 featuring: Summer Holiday Activities copy/advertising deadline: April 1
SWITCH OFF FOR EARTH HOUR Don’t miss the WWF’s Earth Hour on Saturday 31 March at 8.30pm. It’s your chance to get involved in a global phenomenon and join hundreds of millions of people turning off their lights for one hour on the same night, all across the planet. But it’s not just to save an hour's electricity - Earth Hour is about people coming together to celebrate the planet and focus on how we need to protect it, not just for an hour but every day. Sign up at www.wwf.org.uk.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
Cover Credit: www.oililyworld.com
News & Info
Welcome to our bumper Spring issue. It’s packed with loads of great features, our nursery special, competitions and loads of things to do with the kids. Go to page 25 for your chance to win tickets to Legoland, Odds Farm and Let’s Rock the Moor. And of course there are lots of things to be cheerful about despite the financial gloom: the Queen’s Golden Jubilee and of course the Olympics to name just a couple…I really hope that 2012 will be a year all our children remember for years to come. Enjoy Easter and we’ll be back in May with our Summer Holiday activities special.
LIGHT A BEACON FOR THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBLIEE Residents, community and voluntary groups are invited to light a fire to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in June this year. The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has already been invited to light a beacon in Windsor Great Park on Monday June 4, joining a total of 2012 beacons expected to be lit across the country that evening.
Now residents and groups are being invited to organise their own beacon lighting events – and help achieve the aim of having at least six beacons in each of the six Berkshire unitary authorities. A special book listing all the beacon sites across the country and their lighting-up times will be given to the Queen after the Jubilee celebrations. Please register your event before Monday April 30. www.rbwm.gov.uk. For more information go to: www.diamondjubileebeacons.co.uk.
KEEPING KIDS SAFE ONLINE The UK National Centre for Child Protection (CEOP) has launched a new campaign highlighting the dangers of the internet for children. CEOP receives four reports a day highlighting instances of a child finding themselves in immediate danger, with many linked to internet abuse. The message is,“have fun online and enjoy the benefits the internet can bring,” says Peter Davies, CEO of CEOP, “but we ask parents to talk to their child and make sure
their online safety is built into everything they do. Every day we see the effects on children's lives when things do go wrong, so please work with us to help keep your children safe and empower them to know what to do if things go wrong". Giving out personal information, posting inappropriate photos and befriending people they don't know can put children at risk of bullying or even contact from people who may cause them harm. For more information, go to www.clickceop.net.
CALLING ALL SUPER HEROES! Windsor Racecourse's first Family Fun Day meeting of the 2012 season is on Monday 7th May, so why not get tickets for a great afternoon of heart-racing action. Ben 10's Humungosaur and Water Hazard will be visiting the racecourse and there will also be a special visit from Batman alongside free face painting, inflatable rides and lots, lots more. Calling all Superhero parents! For all those superhero parents – dress as your favourite Superhero and get free entry to the Grandstand Enclosure. A Supervillain will be on the prowl outside the entrance gates looking for Fancy Dressed Superhero parents. If you pass his
scrutinizing eyes as fantastically dressed Superheroes you will receive FREE entry to the Grandstand Enclosure. The Supervillain’s word is final! Calling all Superhero schools! Enter your school teams in the Superhero Cool Kart Race. There are two age groups, up to 7 years old and 7-13 years old. Build your own ‘Superhero Transporter’; this could come in the shape of a car, an aeroplane or even a super horse. There are prizes for winners as well as best design. Teams can consist of up to 5 children; with one child ‘driving’ and the others pushing. Contact Emma-Grace Bowler to enter your team and for more information on 01753 498403. www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk
MARCH/APRIL 2012
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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News & Info Blossom Ballet
For a FREE taster class or for further information please contact Lucy: 07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com
Blossom Ballet Pre-school dance school for boys and girls aged 18 months - 5 years
Blossom Ballet and its syllabi were created specifically for babies, toddlers and young children. • New Ascot Venue • New Weekend Classes • ISTD Ballet and Tap • Mini Street Dance (4-6 years) • Dance Show - July 8th 2012
Blossom Ballet is about having lots of fun and making new friends. Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Birch Hill, Maidenhead and Ascot. Mini Street Dance (4-6 years) NEW in WIndsor
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Adventure Play Party
• Age 18 months - 4 years • Mobile Fun and Tumble Play • Ball pond • Bouncy Castle Email: poz@pozmagic.co.uk www.fairandfete.co.uk/adventureplay.html
NEW PLAY GARDEN FOR LANGLEY An exciting new play garden is opening in Langley Park at the start of the Easter holidays. The new play area will cater for young children, linking natural play with traditional. It will feature timber playhouses, swings and slides, tunnels and mounds, and lots more. To celebrate the opening of the new play garden, there will be lots of free fun activities and performances for children throughout the Easter holidays at Langley Park. It has fantastic facilities on site, including picnic areas, a variety of trails to follow, new toilet and baby changing facilities, plus
a Tea Room serving cakes, snacks, hot and cold drinks and light lunches. Located off the A412 Uxbridge Road between Slough and Uxbridge, Langley Park is a beautiful Country Park on Billet Lane in Iver Heath (postcode SL0 0LS). For a detailed events programme and for further information about the new play garden, please visit www.buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks or email countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk.
NEW ARTS SCHOLARSHIP The Youth Creative Award is a scholarship programme aimed at encouraging and supporting the development of young artists. Claire’s Court Art and Craft Club is offering scholarships to creative young people who are dedicated and inspired to pursue their interest in the arts. The Youth Creative Award is offered to all students in school years 5 to 11, whether they attend Claire’s Court Schools or not. The scholarship will allow young artists access to professionals in the various arts fields and they will be offered the opportunity to attend ten workshops or master classes for a 66% discount. They will also have the opportunity to gain a nationally recognised art award, discount at local art shops, lots of support and the opportunity to exhibit their work. To apply, students must submit an example of their artwork, a letter of recommendation from their art teacher and an artist’s statement by March 12. Applicants can be nominated by their
school or apply themselves. All applicants will be asked to submit work demonstrating a variety of drawing and painting using different media, such as pencils, acrylics, ink, oils, pastels and charcoal. The Art and Craft Club runs during the school holidays, from 9am to 4.30pm and is for young people aged 9 to 18 years old. It is based at The College, College Road, Maidenhead, a division of The Claire’s Court Schools. The club has its own Artist in Residence, Frances Ackland Snow (a professional fine artist), a resident Craft specialist, Anne Halpin, and a number of visiting artistic professionals. If you would like to discuss the Award or for more information please contact Lynne Constantine on 01628 687440 or email lmc@clairescourt.com. Or if you would like to book a current workshops or masterclass session for your teenager call 01628 687440. www.clairescourt.com
ARTS INSPIRATION IN FLACKWELL HEATH A popular, annual arts and crafts fair is being held at Juniper Hill School this March. The fair will be showcasing lots- of original arts and crafts by local artists. Including an art exhibition and sale; great craft, gift and food stalls; a themed gallery
displaying work by pupils at the school and pre-bookable craft workshops for children. There will also be a pocket money corner for children to get messy and make some art. The fair is being held on March 10 and 11, 11am to 5pm on both days at Juniper Hill School, Churchill Close in Flackwell Heath.
Play sessions for under-5s at the Phoenix Gymnastics Club Have fun in this fully equipped gym with your kids. Sessions Monday: 10.30-11.30 Tuesday to Friday: 9.30 -10.30 & 11.00–12.00 Tuesday & Thursday: 1.00-2.00pm Cost just £3.50 per child (must be accompanied by adult)
Refreshments available Phoenix Gymnastics Club Unit 1, Water Oakley Farm, Maidenhead Road, Windsor Tel:01628 778881 www.phoenixgym.co.uk
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MARCH/APRIL 2012
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
25 YEARS FOR COOKHAM PRE-SCHOOL Rainbow Pre-school is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year. The group meets in the Wesley Hall, Cookham Rise Methodist church and caters for children aged 2 1/2 to 5 years old. The school has a lovely outside play area and warm, friendly and loyal staff. Sessions are on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 3pm and Friday mornings. Lunch club is also available each day. Some places are currently available. Please call 01628 533150, during session times, to arrange a visit.
News & Info
NEW MOBILE PARTY FUN Adventure Play World is an amazing mobile unit fun and tumble zone. Suitable for children aged 18 months – 4 years, this mobile party is great for little one’s birthday parties, summer picnics and mother and toddler groups. It opens out at your chosen venue and includes soft play, a slide, water fun, fixed play tunnel, talk and hear tubes, percussion zone, kaleidoscope viewers, ball pond and a spring rocking toy, plus an optional bouncy castle at no extra cost! For further information and bookings visit www.fairandfete.co.uk/adventureplay.html or email Poz@pozmagic.co.uk or call on 07836 605032. KIDDYKARE NANNIES OFFERS AN INDIVIDUAL SERVICE KiddyKare Nannies’ main focus is finding the right kind of childcare for Families. They provide three exclusive services: Family Home Visit, Family Profiles and References. This means that parents can be assured that all candidates they recommend have been personally interviewed and thoroughly screened by an experienced childcare consultant, who also checks their qualifications and references. Jen Hill, says, “Our expertise in providing Nannies will help us to select the right type of person to care for your pride and joy and we pride ourselves on providing the personal touch.” They also ask all their nannies to undergo an enhanced disclosure (police check) and a paediatric first aid course. KiddyKare Nannies have been approved as a ''Recommended Agency'' by the Good Nanny Agency Guide and Best Bears. They are also a member of The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC). For more information call Tel: 01628 675828 or email info@KiddyKare.co.uk www.KiddyKare.co.uk NCT HELPS PARENTS SAVE CASH NCT Nearly New Sales provide parents with the opportunity to buy top quality clothes, toys and accessories for babies and toddlers in ‘nearly new’ condition at knock down prices. Parents can also make some cash, while helping the environment, by selling equipment and clothes they no longer need. Last year, more than 200,000 parents attended an NCT Nearly New Sale, with 50,000 parents selling over 1 million items. Don’t miss the next Gold Standard Nearly New Sale hosted by NCT Maidenhead & Marlow Branch on Saturday 17 March at Great Marlow School, Bobmore Lane, Marlow (SL7 1JE) at 1.30pm until 2.45pm (1.15pm entrance for those with a valid NCT membership card). For those interested in selling at the sale or want further information, please call 0844 243 6197 or email marlowmaidenhead.nctsale@hotmail.co.uk.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
MARCH/APRIL 2012
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Education News
Schools’ Noticeboard
Independent School Open Days CLAIRES COURT SCHOOLS, Maidenhead. Independent day schools for boys and girls. Ridgeway boys 4-11years, Maidenhead Thicket; Claires Court boys 11 – 16 years, Ray Mill Road East; The College, (co-ed nursery – 3-5 years, girls – 4-16 years, and co-ed sixth form – 16-18 years) 1 College Avenue. OPEN MORNINGS at all sites, Tuesday 20 March, 9.30am to 12 noon (nursery from 9.30am-11.30am). 01628 411472; www.clairescourt.com. ETON END PREPARATORY DAY SCHOOL, 35 Eton Road, Datchet. Independent day school for boys aged 3-7years and girls aged 311 years. OPEN MORNING Saturday 10 March, 10.00am to 12 noon. 01753 541075; www.etonend.org. GODSTOWE PREPARATORY SCHOOL, Shrubbery Road, High Wycombe. Independent day and boarding school for boys aged 3-7 years and girls aged 3- 13 years. OPEN DAY Saturday 3 March, 10.00am to 1.00pm. 01494 529273; www.godstowe.org HERRIES SCHOOL, Dean Lane, Cookham Dean. Co-ed preparatory school and nursery, 3-11 years. OPEN MORNING Wednesday 28 March, 9.30am to 11.00am. Stay & Play sessions for under-4s (must be accompanied by an adult), Monday March 12, 9.30am-11.00am and Monday March 26, 9.30am -11.00am. 01628 483350; www.herries.org.uk.
HIGHFIELD SCHOOL, West Road, Maidenhead. Independent day school for girls, aged 2½-11years. OPEN DAY Saturday 3 March,10.00 am to 12noon. 0162 8 624918; www.highfieldprep.org LVS ASCOT, London Road, Asco t. A Co-educational Day & Boarding School for 4 to 18 year olds. Satu rday Tour March 17th, registration at 9.45am, OPEN DAY Wednesday April 18, 9.30am to 12 noon. 01344 882770. www.lvs.a scot.sch.uk THE MARIST SCHOOLS, King s Road, Sunninghill, Ascot. A Catholic Day School for girls aged 2 ½ to 18 year olds. OPEN DAY for Prep School, Friday 9 March, 9.45am to 11.30am. OPEN DAY for Senior School, Wednesday 7 March, 10.30am to 12 noon. 0134 4 626137 (Prep) or 01344 624291 (Sen ior). www.themaristschools.com. Please ring the school to check the Open
LVS STUDENTS TAKE A STEP BACK IN TIME
SCHOOLS FACE NO-NOTICE OFSTED INSPECTIONS All schools in England will have inspections without being given notice this Autumn, the new head of Ofsted has announced Sir Michael Wilshaw, HM chief inspector, said the move was a "logical" progression, adding that it was vital the public had confidence in inspections and that inspectors must see schools “as they really are in the corridors, classrooms and staffroom”. At the moment schools are given two days’ notice. But school leaders said they had “real doubts” that the plans would improve the inspection process as the decision had been made without consulting headteachers. Brian Lightman, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), said: "We welcome moves to improve the effectiveness of inspection, but I have real doubts that no-notice inspections will accomplish this. An effective inspection system is based on mutual trust and respect, not the premise that schools are trying to 'cheat' and need to be caught out.”
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Day or Evening is still going ahead.
Junior school pupils at LVS Ascot got a taste of life during World War II this term, when they took part in a WWII morning. The Year 6 pupils were able to get a taste of wartime food, discover how rations worked, take part in an evacuation drama and try their hand at some of the games popular with children at the time. The morning was brought to life by a visit from two of the pupil’s grandparents who recalled their own experiences of the war and evacuation, whilst music from the time played in the background. LVS Ascot is a co-educational day and boarding school for children aged 4 to 18. For more information ring 01344 882770. www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk
MARCH/APRIL 2012
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Clubs & Classes News 20th BIRTHDAY FOR TEDDIES
HARTBEEPS NOW OFFER BABY CLASSES Hartbeeps - sensory and music play sessions - is launching a new class for babies from birth to sitting in Maidenhead. 'Babybells' welcomes babies into the world with beautiful, gentle music, elements of baby yoga and relaxation techniques. Sessions are on Wednesdays at 10am at Four Marlow Road. 'Babybells' is the lastest offering from Hartbeeps, who has also introduced a new 'Babybeeps' sitting-to-walking class on Fridays at 10.45am due to popular demand. Hartbeeps already runs its music and play sessions for babies from sitting to walking on Wednesdays at 11.15am, and for toddlers from walking to four on Fridays at 9.45am, all at Four Marlow Road in Maidenhead. There are also classes in Marlow for all the pre-school age ranges. For more information or to book your free class, call Liz on 01628 639727 or visit www.hartbeeps.com. SPECIAL OFFER FOR ALL MAIDENHEAD CLASSES: Get 3 classes for £10*. Please call 01628 639727 and quote FamiliesTVE to redeem the offer. *This offer is valid for the month of March only, terms and conditions apply.
Local music group Teddies is celebrating two decades of entertaining children this year. The group was set up Claire Ross Masson and Zita Newcome and they still enjoy doing it now. “It has been the most wonderful experience watching countless numbers of young children find their voices and a love of music. It's also clear from the numbers of people still joining us at our singing groups that adults also love the opportunity to sing their socks off in a friendly, non-judgmental environment”, says Claire. Zita cites a quote from Don Campbell’s book, "The Mozart Effect for Children" to describe the affect music can have on children. “Children are happy when they are bouncing, dancing, clapping and singing with someone they trust and love. Even as music delights and entertains them, it helps mould their mental, emotional, social and physical development and gives them the enthusiasm and skill they need to begin to teach themselves." “There are not many activities like singing in a group where parent and child take part
GET THE X FACTOR IN MARLOW Professional dancer and choreographer Tamra Lind is starting up commercial street dance classes at The Marlow Club, Globe Park, Fieldhouse Lane in Marlow. The classes are suitable for boys and girls from 3 years old up to adults. Tamra has worked with many of today’s top artists including Olly Murs, Kylie Minogue, The Wanted, The X Factor Finalists and the Sugababes. Her structured dance classes run on Wednesdays and Thursdays after school, with an early afternoon class for three to four year olds on Thursdays from 1.452.30pm. The one-hour classes cost £7 each, whereas the 45-minute class for the little ones costs £5. Tamra is fully CRB vetted and has studied RAD ballet. Book your classes or find out more by phoning Tamra on 0776 658 4946 or check out her website www.tamradance.com.
together, the input from both is equally important.”, explains Zita. “Whilst there is a musician and a singer at each group to get everyone going we believe passionately in the benefits of live music being created by everyone present. There is nothing quite like the wonderful experience of a room full of people singing and making music together.” For more information go to www.teddiesmusicclub.co.uk
Beehive Pre-school - Open 9.00am to 3.00pm. - Excellent Ofsted. - Front and Rear Garden. - Own premises and car park. - Close to Magnet Leisure Centre. - Children from 2yrs 3 months. - Up to 15 hrs free for over 3’s. - Registered Charity.
The Hut, Holmanleaze, Maidenhead, SL6 8AW Registered Charity No : 1029550
Tel : 01628 777243
★★★★★★★★★★★★ Exciting live music for babies and children! Drop in anytime to our friendly singing sessions A singer and musician will lead the group in a lively session with fresh, new songs from all around the world, old favourites too! Watch your children’s confidence and musicality grow as they join in with action songs, knee-bouncers, dances, instruments and performance songs. Free refreshments and time to chat after each session. Maidenhead, Marlow, Windsor Tel: 01628-671146 or 639878 Twyford Tel: 01628-825315 For further information visit www.teddiesmusicclub.co.uk
Telephone: 01628 627 586
MARCH/APRIL 2012
Bouncy Castle Hire A Family Business based in Wooburn Green, Bucks.
WE CAN PROVIDE SOMETHING FOR ALL OCCASIONS. ★ Indoor/Outdoor ★ Small/Large ★ Back Gardens ★ Schools ★ Fêtes ★ Weddings ★ Christenings ★ Birthdays All inflatables have been tested and have certificates All electrical equipment is PAP tested
07903 940168
www.bouncy-castles-4-hire.co.uk
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Under-5’s Special Reading Eggs is a highly interactive online experience that makes learning to read a fun and enjoyable experience for all involved.
Learn to read with Reading Eggs
Learning to read can be easy and fun!
Children love it! With interactive animations, fun games, great songs and lots of rewards, Reading Eggs is a great place to learn to read. Children are highly motivated to return again and again.
And it’s growing! Reading Eggs now has 120 big lessons, which have been developed for 3 to 7 year olds. A placement test at the start of the program will ensure children start at the correct level for them. The next stage of the programme, Reading Eggspress, is also now available for 8 to 13 year olds and includes lessons, games and activities covering comprehension and grammar. You too can be one of the 90% of parents who reported a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills after using the program Using promotional code UKM23TVE you can trial the site for free for an extended period of 5 weeks to see for yourself what the program entails and why it has been so successful. Simply visit www.readingeggs.co.uk, register your email address and once your account has been set up you can enter the code on your parent dashboard. Happy Eggsploring!
Reading Eggs was created as a unique online world where children learn to read. It supports each child’s learning by offering individual lessons that allow children to progress at their own rate. And it really works! Children love the games, songs, golden eggs and other rewards which, along with feeling proud of their reading, really motivate children to keep exploring and learning. Over one million children across the world have already had the Reading Eggs experience and it is already being used by many teachers, who use it in their daily lessons. Children love working and playing on the computer and the Reading Eggs programme is all about bringing out the best in each child. Educationally sound The programme has been developed by a highly experienced team of educational teachers, writers and developers. The Reading Eggs system focuses on a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words using skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success. It completely supports what children learn at school and will help to improve your child’s progress.
GYMTOTS! PRE-SCHOOL GYMNASTICS
FUN + SAFE + CHALLENGING Classes for Children walking to 3 years plus. Enjoy participating with your child in our safe indoor environment with its exciting up-to-date play equpment, based within the Altwood School, Maidenhead. Every day at 10am from Wednesday to Saturday. Our programme has been developed through more than 28 years’ experience with young children and their parents. Gymtots will enable your child to gain confidence by expanding their physical ability, coordination and social skills, with your involvement and under the guidance of our experienced staff. Our advanced class for 3 to 4 years plus, without parent participation, on Wednesdays at 3pm, is more structured and builds upon the earlier classes. Telephone
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MARCH/APRIL 2012
07 957 223 124 for details E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Yoga is good for kids
Under-5’s Special
Yoga teacher Andi Coope explains how the practice of yoga can benefit young children. Yoga for toddlers does not have to begin in a class - in fact, it is said that in the womb the child has already practised many of the yoga postures, commonly used in classes today. So they are already little yogis when they are born! You can introduce a child as young as 2 to the practice of yoga, in the comfort of your own home. The aim is not to perfect postures but to build the foundations for correct body alignment, flexibility and strength, proper breathing and the ability to deeply relax. All these skills will benefit your child and give them a calm, confident and happy outlook on life. Body alignment is important for many reasons. When we ate as a child many of us will remember hearing our parents say – sit up straight! There is a real reason for this – not just parental whim. Our pelvis contains our sitting bones and when we sit on these with our weight distributed evenly, the bones tap into a part of the brain that creates calming and grounding energy, which aids digestion and helps the body to optimise the intake of nutrients from the food we eat. Being able to deeply relax or go in to a ‘Yoga sleep’ is also very important because this positively alters the hormonal balance in the blood and restores optimum brain function. It aids restful sleep, which is also very important for children. For a gentle introduction to some relaxing yoga try a short relaxation exercise. This can be at any time of day or in bed as they wind down for sleep. Play some soft music and guide your child through Yoga Nidra – a form of relaxation, which involves bringing awareness to all the parts of the body and relaxing and letting go. Start with a session of around 3 to 5 minutes and build up for a longer period of time, as they get older. Yoga Nidra Deep Relaxation 1. Ask them to begin by lying on their backs, heads aligned with spine, feet flopped out to the side and palms facing upwards. Help them a bit but not too much as this is how they gain their own body awareness. (Try a floppy arm spaghetti test to see if they have really let go). 2. Ask them to close their eyes (a small eye pillow can help here too).
3. Ask them to notice their breath by feeling their bellies rise and fall. 4. Tell them to imagine a beautiful butterfly and to choose the colours, size and wing shape. 5. Tell them that for the butterfly to land on each part of the body it needs to be relaxed first. 6. Tell them to relax their toes – and say: now you are relaxed, your beautiful Butterfly will land gently on your toes. 7. Continue with each body part, naming them and asking your child to relax that part and to imagine their butterfly landing on each part. (To help your child become aware of each part you can ask them to tense it first and then to let it go). 8. Tell them to relax their feet and ankles, shins and calves, knees and thighs, buttocks and hips, belly, chest and shoulders, fingers and hands, arms, neck, face and lips. 9. Start winding down the relaxation and say: now that you are totally relaxed and still, your butterfly which has done a lot of fluttering, feels safe to settle and take a drink of nectar from your hand – let me put the nectar in your hand – lie very still so as not to disturb your butterfly (tickle their hand for a little bit). 10. Lastly say:You have been so helpful and kind to your butterfly, it feels so refreshed and happy after that drink, it has now fluttered away to find all the other beautiful and colourful butterflies from all the other children in the world who have been relaxing just like you. 11. At this point, if it’s during the day, you can take the child through waking up the body and stretching or rocking forward and back to wake up or, if they are in bed, say goodnight and leave them relaxed and ready to sleep. Knowing how to relax deeply will be a gift your child can take through school and into their adult life because once they have experienced it, they will never forget it. Andi Coope offers yoga days for 4-11 year olds in her holiday club and teaches children’s yoga in schools and private classes for 8 to 17 year olds – for more information contact call 07917 829476 or email andi@andi.uk.com. www.andi.uk.com.
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MARCH/APRIL 2012
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Under-5’s Special Many parents are confused when it comes to deciding upon the right childcare solution for their needs. It may take hours of internet research, phone calls, emails and visits before the right choice can be made. But now a new event showcasing childcare in the local area is being held in Windsor this March. hildcare Choices is being produced in association with the Family Information Service of Windsor and Maidenhead and the event will take place at Windsor Leisure Centre on Saturday March 24 from 10am to 4pm. There will be around 30 exhibitors from throughout Windsor & Maidenhead. Local nurseries, pre-schools, nanny agencies, holiday clubs, after school clubs and childminders will be present. The Family Information Service will be on hand to answer questions about childcare vouchers, nursery funding, family tax credits and any advice that parents may need on helping choose the right solution.
Looking for the Right Childcare?
The East Berkshire College will also be exhibiting and will be offering advice for anyone who is looking for a career in childcare. Organiser, Louise Magrath says she was inspired to set up the event after her own experience of looking for childcare. “When I became a parent, I didn’t know what to do when I decided to go back to work.
There were so many options available to me that I didn’t know where to start. Questions arose such as: Will a childminder be able to take my child to school? Will a nursery open early enough for me to travel into London? If I take on a nanny, how much tax would I have to pay? There are so many local pre-schools, which one should I choose?” Louise’s background made her decide to host the event. “Having worked in events for the last 15 years, it occurred to me that a one day event focused upon local childcare solutions could help hundreds of local parents. Whether you are going back to work full- or part-time or looking for after school or holiday cover or just simply need a break, then you are sure to find a solution at Childcare Choices.” Childcare Choices is free to attend and there will be an onsite crèche available for parents visiting the event. For a full list of exhibitors and for more information visit www.childcarechoices.org.uk. You can also follow them on Facebook.
MARCH/APRIL 2012
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
Photo: S. Deness. www.fotolia.com
How to choose a nursery By Joanna Parry
o, your little one’s growing up and it’s time to start thinking about nurseries. Day nurseries, nursery schools, pre-schools – nurseries come in all shapes and sizes and navigating your way through them can be daunting. Whether you’re going back to work or just want your child to benefit from all that nursery has to offer, here is our guide to finding the best, and right, nursery for you.
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Studies have shown that children who attend nurseries can be more confident and often go on to do better at school. A good nursery will prepare your child for those first few nervewracking weeks at school, plus most children thrive on the stimulation at nursery. Another advantage is the year-round care they offer, and you know your child is being looked after by qualified staff who won’t become ill and need time off work – at least not all at the same time!
Telephone: 01628 627 586
Spotlight on Nurseries Day nurseries Open usually 8am-6pm, day nurseries are a good option for working parents as many will take babies from 3 months. The day follows structured activities interspersed with naps, meals and outdoor play. Day nurseries offer continuity of care and your child doesn’t have to stay all day – many day nurseries will do half days or you can collect early. Nursery schools Nursery schools are often more formal in the way they structure sessions. They usually take children from 21⁄2-3 years and provide a grounding for starting school, teaching letters, shapes, numbers and sometimes even early-stage reading. Nursery schools give children the opportunity to make friends of the same age as most require children to do either 5 morning or 5 afternoon sessions, so the same children will be there everyday. They are often smaller scale with a personal touch, too, but perhaps are not so convenient for working families. Nursery classes in school The first step in ‘real’ school life, these can be excellent for children who are ready for school and structured, educational play. They are convenient if you already have siblings at the school, but again sessions are often only 3 hours long, which may not be practical. Nursery classes in independent schools are more likely to offer full school-day sessions and wraparound care if it is needed. Nursery classes attached to state schools are free. It’s important to remember that a school nursery place does not automatically guarantee a place in reception. Pre-schools and playgroups Playgroups usually take children from 21⁄2 yrs, offering short sessions to 'ease' your child out of the home and into a more sociable learning environment where they can play, learn and have fun. Playgroups have a varied mix of toys, games, singing, story-time, arts and crafts and usually an outdoor area. Parents are encouraged to be active members of the playgroup and their small-scale settings are less daunting for shy children. They are also excellent value for money as they tend to be not-for-profit and are sometimes staffed by volunteers, with parents staying to help out. continued on page 12
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Spotlight on Nurseries Montessori nurseries and Steiner schools Montessori teaching is based on a method which fosters and guides children’s in-built curiosity for learning. In a Montessori nursery it is the children themselves who choose from the range of activities offered. Using sensory materials to provide intellectual, physical and psychological stimuli, Montessori schools aim to develop the child's whole personality. The aim of Steiner schools is to foster imagination and creativity; they don't introduce formal education before the age of six, concentrating on creative play rather than the 'three Rs'. Both these options can be great, but might not prepare a child who is going on to a particularly academic school (with entrance exams perhaps) but they do offer a more holistic approach to learning. Workplace nurseries Much sought-after, workplace nurseries provide full or part-time childcare, but think about the location. If your journey to work is an hour long your toddler may not appreciate the trip home at 6pm and a nursery around the corner from home might be a better idea. SureStart Children's Centres A number of Centres offer affordable, flexible childcare for up to 10 hours a day and are well worth considering. NURSERY CHECKLIST Once you’ve found a nursery, go and have a look. Go back again if you’re still not sure. A good nursery will welcome a visit and might even let your child join in. By watching the other children you’ll get a good idea of whether it's the right environment for your child. How to find the right nursery – a parents’ guide: • Start early! “It sounds ridiculous, but I put my bump down for nursery when I was pregnant,” says Camille, mother of one. “OK, I wasted a few registration fees, but at least I got a place at the nursery I really wanted.” • “Near or far? Think about the time it takes to get to nursery. There’s a lot to be said for a nursery around the corner from home, and it helps bring down your carbon footprint.” • “Does the nursery have a welcoming, happy, cheerful atmosphere? Some nurseries offer cosy, home-like environments whereas others have more room to run around in. A child-friendly outdoor space can be a real draw when choosing a nursery, especially for lively boys. Also, check basic things like security, cleanliness and equipment.” • “Looks aren’t everything,” says Kate, mother of 3. “If a nursery is a bit shabby it could still be fantastic in terms of quality of care. And perfect, pristine equipment is not being used!”
• “I wanted a nursery for Annabel where her key worker would chat to me every day and tell me what she had been up to. Some nurseries I looked around seemed too busy to do that,” says Sarah • “Read the latest OFSTED report - a great way for detailed info on everything from quality of care and education to cleanliness and opportunities for play. Although all nurseries follow OFSTED guidelines, there’s room for interpretation.” • “How flexible will the nursery be if you need to swap a day or add an afternoon? You’ll soon discover how useful this can be.” The best way to choose a nursery is gut instinct. Look at whether the children are relaxed, happy, stimulated and engaged. “If it clicks, it’s probably right,” says Jo.
NURSERY GRANTS EXPLAINED... Nursery fees vary greatly, depending on location, demand and what is offered. They start at around £100 a week and go up to 4 times that, but there are ways to get help with the costs: • Nursery Education Grant - all 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to 15 hours of free early-education a week for 38 weeks of the year. This applies until they reach compulsory school age (the term following their fifth birthday), and can be applied flexibly over a minimum of three days. Free early education places are available at a range of early years settings including nursery schools and classes, children's centres, day nurseries, play groups and pre-schools and childminders.Your child will be eligible for the Nursery Education Grant from the term after their third birthday. If you choose a nursery which costs more
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
than the funding or use the nursery for more hours the grant will be offset against your bill. Your employer may provide subsidised onsite childcare, or offer Childcare Vouchers as a portion of your salary. Download a guide at www.childcarevouchers.co.uk or find out more about Childcare Vouchers at www.hmrc.gov.uk/calcs/ccin.htm. Check if your nursery will accept Childcare Vouchers. You may be able to recoup some of your childcare costs through the tax credit scheme, depending on the number of hours you work and your household income. To find out if you are eligible go to www.payingforchildcare.org.uk or www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAn dBenefits/TaxCredits
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MORE INFORMATION * Find out about the Early Years Foundation Stage at www.direct.gov.uk. Download a list of registered childcarers in your area and information on Surestart. * For local nurseries and links to Ofsted reports go to www.findmyschool.co.uk * The National Day Nurseries Association provides information for parents. Search for NDNA member nurseries at www.ndna.org.uk/parents * The Preschool Alliance www.preschool.org.uk * OFSTED www.ofsted.gov.uk * For more articles on choosing a nursery, early learning, independent or chain of nurseries, childminder versus nursery, tree nurseries, Montessori education and more visit www.familestveast.co.uk.
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Spotlight on Nurseries Countryside Nurseries is a family owned and family run company, small enough to care personally about all the children and staff, large enough to provide all the necessary safeguards and systems that today's nurseries must employ. Located in Cookham Dean, Ascot, Flackwell Heath, Sunninghill, Henley-onThames and Burnham, the nurseries are open from 7.45am* to 6pm, Monday to Friday, 51 weeks a year, offering full- and part-time places. Having been established since 1991, they offer you a wealth of experience, caring for children from newborn to 5 years of age. Above all, their aim is to ensure that each child feels loved and has fun and that parents are confident leaving their child at nursery. Contact the nurseries direct via www.countrysidenurseries.co.uk or Head Office on 01628 476153 to see how passionate they are to offer the best childcare. * Forest Lodge in Ascot opens at 7.30am
Choosing a safe and happy nursery for your daughter to make her first steps out into the world is a big decision and you will spend a lot of time thinking about where she will settle and start to make friends. Ms Annie Lee, headmistress of Highfield, says, “In our Early Years setting at Highfield we know that you are placing your most treasured possession into our care to help her make those first discoveries, learn to read, write, count and make new friends.” The nursery children are an important part of the school and they benefit from sharing the school resources such as the gym, the gardens and the computer room. They also enjoy a weekly specialist music lesson. There is also a breakfast club from 7.45am each day and extended day care to 6pm and a holiday club. The nursery offers NEF places and also accepts childcare vouchers. Girls attending the nursery are automatically offered a place in Reception and can continue into the main school with their friends, where small class sizes, individual attention and lots of activities ensure that when they leave the school, aged 11, they are confident and successful young ladies who are ready to move on to secondary school. 01628 624918; www.highfield.berks.sch.uk.
Claires Court Schools, The Nursery, is a delightfully colourful and airy setting, based on the College site in College Avenue. It is well resourced, warm and welcoming. Staff are highly qualified and experienced and ensure that regular liaison takes place with parents. A large outside secure play area may be accessed with direct access from each room. A secure wildlife area incorporating a pond offers explorative and investigative experiences. Hours are flexible with a minimum of 2 mornings for 3 year olds and 5 mornings for 4 year olds up to 5 full days with extended care available. Boys and girls move on from the Nursery into small Reception classes – boys at Ridgeway and girls at The College, where they enjoy a stimulating educational experience broadening their horizons and motivating them to achieve to their full potential. Excellent pastoral care is delivered with boys and girls supported with learning in all aspects of the EYFS in a creative, play-based environment. Readiness to read is carefully assessed and introduced at the appropriate point for each child’s development. A good balance of adult led and child initiated activities take place. Why not visit one of their Open Mornings to see their pupils and School at work! 01628 411472; www.clairescourt.com
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Spotlight on Nurseries IAPS PREPARATORY DAY SCHOOL BOYS 3 – 7 Girls 3 – 11
Consistently listed as one of the top Preparatory Schools in the country
ent ExcellIS I 2010 on Inspecti
OPEN MORNING Saturday 10th March 2012 10.00am – 12noon One childhood, One education
Children are naturally imaginative and inquisitive. At Eton End School they encourage and develop this by providing stimulating activities, which promote creativity in their pupils and awaken a sense of wonder. To keep children’s learning exciting, topics are carefully chosen, planned thoroughly, resourced well and delivered with a fresh approach. Zoe Logan, Head of Nursery and Pre-Prep, cited the discussion of the Man on the Moon with the Nursery classes as a good example of how pupils’ enquiry and excitement lead the learning journey. “The initial discussion was broadened to the following topics: finding ways to get to the moon, looking at the planets, and subsequently to what might be found on the moon. The Eton End Nursery children speculated as to whether aliens are, indeed, to be found there. Proof was needed, so an alien came to visit the children and, as luck would have it, the alien was able to answer all of their questions. Just one example of how we capture our children’s imaginations and inquisitiveness in a way which supports their learning and appeals to their sense of fun.” Many other inventive approaches will be used in the weeks ahead by the resourceful Eton End staff throughout the whole school to capture the excitement of learning. For more information about the school call 01753 541075; www.etonend.org.
For further details please contact our Registrar 35 ETON ROAD, DACHET, BERKSHIRE SL3 9AX 01753 541075 admin@etonend.org www.etonend.org
Little Godstowe is a termly nursery which encourages girls and boys from three years old to learn in a natural and pleasurable way. Through the exercise of their imagination and through their powers of imitation, each child develops their own unique potential within a secure and calm environment. The Nursery has been specially designed to meet the needs of their youngest pupils. Its rooms are light and spacious, with resources and toys for every stage of development. Free play is encouraged and outside there are fully enclosed gardens with lots of play equipment. Children explore woodland and fields in Godstowe’s 11 acres of grounds. They enjoy structured activities that help prepare them for the move to the Pre-Prep. Mornings are from 8.45am to 11.45am and a full day finishes at 3.30pm. They offer care at the beginning of the day (for a small charge) and at the end until 5.25pm at no extra cost. 01494 529273; www.godstowe.org
At Herries, ...... every child is an individual and every child is known and loved. Come and visit the school at one of our monthly Open Mornings or arrange an individual appointment. See our website for full details:
www.herries.org.uk Herries Preparatory School, Dean Lane, Cookham Dean, Berkshire SL6 9BD Tel: 01628 483350 Email: office@herries.org.uk
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Herries Nursery is going from strength to strength. With the facilities having received a recent face lift, their ever increasing number of nursery children are taking full advantage of all the different learning areas within the spacious accommodation. Their rising threes, three year olds and four year olds also have the opportunity to be integrated into Herries’ school life, learning from and being supported by the older children. The Diamond Jubilee celebrations and Olympics initiative running throughout the school are two more aspects of school life that their youngest pupils will enjoy taking part in. The school is also planning to extend their hours later this year so that working parents will be able to drop their children from 8am and pick them up at 6pm, happy in the knowledge that their children will receive top class care whilst they are at Herries. 01628 483350; www.herries.org.uk.
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Spotlight on Nurseries
The Marist Preparatory School is an independent day school for girls aged 2½ - 11 years. The school is built firmly on its Marist foundations and Christian principles but with eyes firmly on the future of your daughter and her needs. The School offers before and after school care and a generous sibling discount scheme is available. The Early Years Department was recently inspected by Ofsted and was awarded ‘Outstanding’ in a number of areas. Pupils are taught in small classes and academic scholarships are available for academically outstanding pupils at Year 3 entry. Their pupils have access to a wide variety of resources, specialist teaching and excellent facilities including a dedicated ICT and music suite and an indoor swimming pool. Their beautiful 55 acre setting provides the perfect environment for your daughter to discover and enjoy the world of nature through woodland walks and outdoor play. Please visit the school to experience for yourself the atmosphere of security, respect, confidence, motivation and determination to succeed. All prospective families are warmly invited to attend their upcoming open events, or to contact their Registrar to arrange a personal visit. 01344 626137 (Prep) or 01344 624291 (Senior); www.themaristschools.com
Where your little ones blossom into independent confident learners
• Poppies is owned by two qualified childcare practitioners with over 30 years’ experience. • We carefully select our dedicated childcare team who provide an outstanding level of care to children aged birth to five years. • Children are cared for in beautiful settings, a home away from home. • Excellent Parent Carer Partnerships • Freshly cooked organic food. • Large safe and secure nursery garden. “I will always be most grateful for the most wonderful settings you have created and for meeting my childrenʼs appropriate needs. Thank you and well done. Poppies will always hold a special place for me and as I watch my children progress I know where it all began.” K.H. (parent) Poppies Marlow Crown Road Marlow Bucks SL7 2QG Tel: 01628 487772
Poppies Beaconsfield Harrias Barn Hedgerley Lane Beaconsfield Bucks HP9 2SD Tel. 01494 677116
Poppies Bourne End Furlong Road Bourne End Bucks SL8 5AE Tel: 01628 521522
The Poppies nurseries group has nurseries in Bourne End, Marlow and Beaconsfied. They are owned by Anne Fox and Linda Hill, two very experienced childcare practitioners who both have over 30 years experience in the childcare sector. They pride themselves on having carefully selected, qualified and dedicated childcare teams at each nursery. They also promote further education amongst their staff and currently have three members of staff in the second year of a Foundation Degree in Childcare and Education. All the nurseries serve freshly prepared meals prepared on site by their experienced nursery chefs using organic meat, fruit and vegetables. They also have wonderful safe and secure nursery environments, including large outside play areas and large sunken sandpits to enable all nursery age groups to enjoy playing together. The children also enjoy regular outings, like walking to the local village, visiting the library, feeding the ducks, playing at the local park and shopping for plants at the local garden centre. All the nurseries host family days, which are organised outside of the nursery timetable to encourage families to get to know each other. Last summer they had a mobile farm, refreshments and a children’s magician at their Beaconsfield Nursery. The Bourne End Poppies nursery was rated 'Outstanding' by OFSTED in 2009 and both other settings were graded as 'Good' with ‘Outstanding’ in some areas. Please visit www.poppiesdaynursery.com for more information.
www.poppiesdaynursery.com
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Spotlight on Nurseries
Children from 6 weeks to 5 years 7.30am – 6.15 pm
French, Music and Swimming Lessons
Open Day
Positive Steps Children’s Day Nursery is located in Maidenhead. They offer a nurturing environment with carefully designed rooms that cater for all of the children’s individual needs. The Nursery is dedicated to providing the finest quality childcare and education for children aged from 6 weeks to 8 years. They offer a variety of sessions, conveniently located near Maidenhead town centre with excellent commuter links to the M4 and A404, perfect for working parents. Their dedicated and experienced staff encourage enthusiasm, good manners, independence and consideration of others. Positive Steps Children’s Day Nursery is a caring and secure environment where children enjoy the friendship of others and have a happy and rewarding time reaching their full potential through praise and encouragement. The nursery also offers music, French and swimming classes on a weekly basis. The opening hours are from 7.30am until 6.15pm, Monday to Friday, for 51 weeks of the year. For more information go to www.positivestepsnurseries.co.uk
Saturday 3rd March 2012 10am to 2pm and Saturday 21st April 2012 10am to 2pm St Josephs Centre, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 7EG
Contact: 01628 623777 www.positivestepsnurseries.co.uk
The Oratory Montessori Day Nursery offers a warm and loving environment, which provides quality care for children aged 3 months to 5 years. They are open from 8am to 6pm (Monday to Friday) and have varying session times to suit parents’ needs. The Nursery provides a homely environment, which allows children to grow and develop at their own unique pace. The Oratory encourages learning through play and promotes Montessori Philosophy as well as the Early Years Foundation Stage for the children’s progress and development. All staff and key persons are available to parents at all times, to discuss their child’s development and wellbeing. They have friendly and knowledgeable staff with 75% qualified to level 3 and above which is well above the industry average. It is conveniently located near the M4 and the Burnham train station, near most schools in Burnham and Cippenham, and the Nursery has ample and exclusive parking facilities at the front of the building for easy drop off and collection. No fighting for spaces with office workers. The Oratory boasts a large Nursery garden with a separate enclosed sensory garden for babies. The gardens are well equipped and are designed to stimulate and promote exploration, social skills and positive self-esteem. The Nursery promotes healthy eating and has a dedicated Nursery cook, who cooks all meals on site. For further information and a brochure, please call 01628 665621or go to www.montessorischool.co.uk
Quality Day Care for Ages 0-5 years Open all year 8 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday • Friendly and homely environment • Experienced and qualified staff • Covering the EYFS & Montessori curriculum • Excellent & Safe outdoor play area • Council Funded sessions • Childcare Vouchers accepted • Freshly cooked meals The Oratory Montessori Day Nursery is committed to the improvement of quality within the Nursery, and are currently on the journey of continuous self reflexion of the setting through the Bristol Standards Quality Improvement Scheme for birth to five.
For further information please call: 01628 665621 email: oratorymdn@gmail.com
The Little Red Hen Nursery in Grove Business Park, White Waltham, is expanding due to popular demand and is now registered for 52 places. The garden has also been extended and is well equipped and secure, creating a fantastic outdoor space that the children enjoy on a daily basis. An outside catering company, specialising in the children's day nursery sector, now provides large portions for each child's individual daily nutritional needs, whatever their specific dietary requirements. It also has a dedicated sleep room for younger children and babies and free on-site parking. The nursery is suitable for children aged 3 months to five years and is open from 8am to 6pm, 48 weeks of the year. Little Red Hen accepts all kinds of childcare vouchers and has 15 hours of free education a week available for 3 to 5 year olds. For more information call 07948 073118 or go to www.littleredhendn.co.uk
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Spotlight on Nurseries Nuffield Health Day Nursery in Stoke Poges takes children from 3 months to 5 years and is open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday; 51 weeks of the year. The nursery is Ofsted registered and follows the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum. Because it is part of a national health club chain it offers swimming once a week, during term time for the 3 to 5 year olds, with a qualified instructor. Activities within the nursery room are adapted to suit each child’s stage of development and they have a large outside area for all the children to use. A large range of nutritious meals is served daily, ensuring that the children receive all the key food groups. The meals are freshly prepared on-site daily and cater for specific requirements. The nursery also has access to on-site clinicians. Nuffield Health Day Nurseries are committed to ensuring the safety of all their children, hence all staff and students are CRB checked. All of the childcare team is experienced in working with children and the management are qualified to a minimum of Level 3. Call 01753 663 996 or email southbucks.nursery@nuffieldhealth.com.
Silchester Manor has recently been acquired by new owners, and is now part of a small group of premium nurseries – all of which have achieved good OFSTED reports with ‘outstanding’ elements of care. Silchester Manor is due to be inspected in June, and the nursery expects a similar outcome. Located on Bath Road between Taplow, Maidenhead and Bray, they occupy a beautiful Victorian house with large rooms and high ceilings, with many original features. Their bright, airy rooms give the children lots of space to explore, play and learn. Nursery manager Kat Lovell-Spencer says, “The nursery is warm and welcoming and has a homely feel, which we love, and are very proud of. We have separate rooms for our babies, toddlers, our 1-2 year olds, and our preschool children, enabling us to resource each room appropriately for the age group, and operate a ‘key carer’ system, ensuring your child builds an effective and loving relationship with one key person.” The nursery has several acres of beautiful grounds surrounded by woodland, including separate grassed and well equipped outdoor play areas for younger and older children, and a large secure field - enabling them to provide exceptional and exciting outdoor play opportunities and learning experiences, from their discovery walks to their ‘woodland activity centre’. Kat says any interested parents are welcome. “We’d love to see you here at the nursery and have the opportunity to introduce our team and show you around, so please give us a call, or pop in and ask for me.” 01628 778890; www.silchestermanordaynursery.co.uk
Providing outstanding childcare in the Maidenhead, Taplow, Bray area to children aged 3 months to 5 years. Open 7.45 – 6.00pm. Morning, afternoon and full day places available. Free places are also available to all 3 and 4 year olds under the ‘Flexible Free Entitlement’ scheme. Full details are available on our website or pop in and we’ll be delighted to show you around.
Tel: 01628 778890
Website: www.silchestermanordaynursery.co.uk
Set in beautiful countryside and housed in its own purpose-built facilities, Meadowbrook Montessori School has been delivering robust, child-centred education for over 20 years. The school marries the best of Montessori practice, with many aspects of the National Curriculum, thoroughly preparing children for a wide range of secondary schools. Headteacher Serena Gunn has been at the helm for 15 years and is an inspector for the Independent Schools Inspectorate. High academic standards are achieved through our very small class sizes and personalised learning approach. The application of Positive Discipline is also unique, resulting in children achieving high standards in their personal and social behaviour and work ethic. Meadowbrook can provide a seamless route through the most important years of a child’s education - from parent and toddler sessions through to graduating from the primary department at 11 years. For further information please telephone 01344 890 869 or see www.meadowbrookmontessori.org
Telephone: 01628 627 586
MARCH/APRIL 2012
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Olympics
Get ready to celebrate the London 2012 Games By Rebecca Carr
This summer, the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be an amazing festival of sport and culture: a breathtaking event that the whole nation can get excited about. You will get to see the very best athletes in the world, the fastest runners, the highest jumpers and the strongest swimmers. Here’s how you too can get involved and be a part of the greatest sporting event in the world.
Be a Local Leader The Local Leader programme is an opportunity for people in communities across the UK to be at the heart of the London 2012 Games and celebrate them in your local area. Millions of people will be celebrating and at the heart of every celebration will be the one person who makes a difference, an organiser or someone who makes things happen. So if this sounds like you, why not become a London 2012 Local Leader and plan an activity that can include the whole family. All you need is an idea of how you will celebrate the Games.You can create your own events or use the ideas communities across the UK suggested to London 2012. From gardening for the games to planning a sports quiz or an opening night in or a super Saturday family BBQ, get your friends, family and neighbours ready to celebrate the greatest sporting event in the world.
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Ideas to get you started and involve the whole family: Let’s get gardening Dig out your trowel and get planting! Use your window pots, garden or community allotment to celebrate through all things floral.You can use Olympic colours or Union Jack themes. School’s out Every week during the school holidays keep the family busy during the holidays with the toolkit from London 2012. Packed with ideas and learning opportunities. Design a flag Why not design an Olympic flag to wave when the Olympic Torch passes through your town or village. For more information and to register visit: www.london2012.com/localleaders
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Olympics Youth and Family Gold Challenge The Youth and Family Gold Challenge is the charity challenge where you take on Olympic and Paralympic Sports to raise money for charity. Everyone aged five and over can take part either as an individual, as part of a team, or with your family and fundraise money for one of Gold Challenge’s 125 charities.
The Family Activity Challenge This challenge is all about doing sports together and is perfect for families. Learn one new sport and or try a family run, walk, cycle or swim. It’s accessible for younger children or those who want to involve elder members of the family too. The Youth and Family Gold Challenge offers three challenge options to choose from. This is your challenge and you can choose how you do it: • Complete your challenge indoors or outdoors • Choose new sports, or push yourself further in your favourite sport • Complete it as an individual or as a family 1.The 2012km Challenge Celebrating the Olympic year, choose your target distance at 2,012, 201.2 or 20.12km and then complete this in your preferred sports. You need to be aged seven or over to register. Cover your chosen distance via one or more of the following sports (for families or groups this is an aggregated total): Running • Walking • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing/Kayaking Horse-riding • Rowing • Sailing 2. Olympic Sport Challenge This challenge is for those of you who want to try out new sports. Pick five Olympic or Paralympic sports to learn or improve on, then coach or take part in a competitive event to complete your challenge.You need to be aged seven or over to register. 3.The Family Activity Challenge This is a two part challenge, perfect for families as it's all about doing sports together, regardless of age or ability. Firstly, choose one new sport to learn then do two of the following as a family: Swim 500 metres • Run 1,500 metres • Walk 5,000 metres Cycle 10,000 metres The Family Activity Challenge can be done anywhere you choose but you must complete it together as a family. More information is available at: www.goldchallenge.org
Renting your home for the Games For those lucky enough to live near an Olympic Site, like Dorney Lake, there’s one bit question you might be thinking; can I rent my house to visitors for the games? Some letting agents have reported a serious interest from those looking to rent their homes near to the action this summer. Reports suggest some homeowners, who live near the London Olympic site are asking between £3,000 and £5,000 per week to rent their home. If you are thinking of renting your home, there are two options available: pay an agent who specialises in short-term lets or do it yourself! Agents will typically charge commission of 10 – 15% and the advantage being they provide a contract and crucially collect the money for the rent. If you wish to avoid paying commission, then there are a variety of websites such as rentduringthegames.com where you can list your property for a small insertion free. Considerations for letting your family home • All your cupboards, wardrobes and draws will need to empty and all personal possessions removed from your property. • You will need to have a spotlessly clean house • There will be a cost associated with finding somewhere for your family to stay while your home is rented • You will pay tax on the income you generate from the rent • Your home insurance will not cover you for commercial lets so you will need to organise additional cover. Useful websites to help you decide whether to rent your home during the Olympics. www.accommodatelondon.com/olympics www.londonrentmyhouse.com www.2012homerentals.com www.rentduringthegames.com
The Arch Clinic, located under Windsor Central Station, provides treatment, rehabilitation and prevention of all your muscular and skeletal pain.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
MARCH/APRIL 2012
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Health
Brain tumours: a preventable killer?
Every year brain tumours wreak havoc in 16,000 British families. They now kill more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer. At present the prognosis is not good, but many believe that with sufficient research funding, the survival rate from this type of cancer can be dramatically improved.
This was once the case with childhood leukaemia: 50 years ago less than 20 per cent of patients, with the most common form of the diseases lived more than five years. Today almost 90 per cent do. This dramatic turnaround in survival rates could be possible with brain tumours, but it will only happen if money is raised for research. Trudy's Trust is now actively involved with Brain Tumour Research's concerted campaign to raise public awareness and help fund the research than can literally mean the difference between life and death. Despite being perhaps the most deadly of cancers, research into it receives less than 1 per cent of the funds raised for research - just 70p in every £100 collected. Mark's involvement began after the tragic death of his daughter from the disease. Trudy Shingler – a forensic psychologist (and beauty queen), married to Lea, and mum to 4-year-old Phoenix – died last year from an aggressive brain tumour. Only months before she had being enjoying life to the full, but her death was swift and brutal.
Mark Leeson, who lost his daughter to the disease in 2010, is one of these. He's founded an organisation to both raise funds and awareness about brain tumours. Named after his daughter, it's called Trudy's Trust. The facts of the disease are that a diagnosis of brain cancer can mean death within months. And fewer than 20 per cent of patients will survive the next five years.
Trudy who lost her battle with cancer aged 35, her husband Lea and son Phoenix
Initially the headaches and nausea she was getting were put down to an inner ear infection but within weeks she was taken to A and E where scans detected two brain tumours. Surgeons operated but the tumours grew back within 10 days. Her Dad Mark recalls: “In November 2010 we were told she had only hours to live. Miraculously she pulled through that crisis but the chemo didn’t work and the tumour continued to grow. We were all absolutely devastated. “She died at home in February – 4 months after her diagnosis. All the family were with her including her little boy Phoenix. “We talk about her all the time and Phoenix understands that his Mummy is not around – that she is an angel in heaven. But when he gets upset he still cries for her and that is hard. If he sees a picture he will say ‘That’s Mummy’, but when he is feeling down, a picture can’t comfort him. He says: ‘But that’s not real’.” Mark's desire to prevent similar tragedies happening to other families prompted him to found Trudy's Trust. This year the trust will be helping Brain Tumour Research raise £7 million to fight the disease. “When she died people were great, but they used say to me - ‘I remember when my Mum or my Dad died.’ They meant well but it used to make me very angry because I would think – but it is not my mum or dad. It is my child. There is a difference. That is not the natural order of things.”
PLEASE HELP: Help raise funds for brain tumour research by organising your own fundraising event at or taking part in the Brain Tumour Research Wear a Hat day on March 30. Log on to www.braintumourresearch.org to find out how to take part. Trudy’s Trust will be holding a family sponsored walk over Cannock Chase in June and a summer ball at the Ramada Hotel in Birmingham on June 23. The Trust needs to raise £1million for a brain tumour research centre. Log on to www.trudystrust.co.uk
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Mothering Sunday What mums really want for Mothers’ Day Warning: This is a page for dads only – mums, look elsewhere (or leave the magazine conveniently open on this page where it might be found by your other half…)
By Gabrielle Starkey Psst, dads – want to know what mum really wants for Mothers’ Day? This year it falls on the 18th March. Here are some ideas to show her how much you care. A family gathering Mothering Sunday was originally a day-off from Lent, when servants were allowed to travel home to see their mums, and have a slap-up dinner together. Traditional presents were flowers and cakes – and you won’t go too far wrong if you stick to tradition. What mum doesn’t love having the family all around one table, with cake and flowers thrown in? But mum’s not making the feast, or doing the washing up – oh no. Book her favourite restaurant or pub, or make the meal yourself - and make sure you wash up afterwards. Breakfast in bed Again, a traditional but excellent choice. Try making Jamie Oliver’s ridiculously easy American-style pancakes (1 cup each of flour and milk, plus one large egg: www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/fruitrecipes/apple-pancakes-with-the-girls) with fruit and maple syrup, add flowers and a pot of tea, and Bob’s your uncle. Follow up with a family walk – or take the kids off yourself to let her really enjoy that extended lie-in.
With a little planning ahead, you and the kids can present mum with a truly unique and handmade creation. Take the children’s fingerprints or hand or foot casts, and have them made into pictures, keepsakes or jewellery. The Dinky Finger Print Company. do a lovely range of personalised jewellery in sterling slilver. www.dinkyfingerprint.co.uk. Alternatively, take the kids to a pottery painting shop and have a great time making a personalised plate, mug or vase that mum will treasure forever. At Hands on Art Adventures in Old Windsor you can bring your children in to the studio to paint a present for Mummy. They also offer Art, Pottery and Jewellery courses, which make great 'me-time' Mothers’ Day gifts. www.hands-onartadventures.co.uk Whatever you decide, we hope every mum has a wonderful Mothers’ Day
Time to herself This is one thing we mums often crave more than anything, so organise her some proper “me time”. Book her a spa day or indulge her hobby (yoga/writing/crafts/cookery) with a weekend course. Or why not book a series of sessions with a personal trainer? Sarah at Go Figure personal training can devise exercise programmes to suit all levels of fitness. www.gofigure.org.uk. If she doesn’t get to see her closest friends enough, maybe you could secretly liaise with them and organise a weekend away? You’ll be rolling in Brownie points after any of these. Time with you, alone Chances are, since the kids came along, life’s been a little (or a lot) less romantic. Mothers’ Day is the perfect time to put this right, with a hotel reservation slipped inside the card and the grandparents on standby for next weekend. Happy days all round. Personalised works of art If home is where your woman’s heart is, then a few personal touches to beautify it won’t go far wrong. Book a portrait session for the whole family with a great local photographer. Wendy Aldiss does stunning sessions at a location of your choice or at her studio in the outskirts of Marlow. www.wendyaldissportraitsandweddings.co.uk or find a local service that turns an existing photo into a fantastic artwork. What woman could resist a framed print of her wedding day as a romantic gesture? Local company www.morethanwords.uk.com, create bespoke typographic art, which are really unusual and use words instead of pictures.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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Spring Days Out Easter Fun Encourage your children to embrace the great outdoors with the promise of clues, trails, cute lambs and of course chocolate… aster Egg hunts seem to be enjoying a bit of a renaissance this year. And let’s face it, what’s not to love about a bunny-themed treasure hunt? Parents get a pleasant walk in the Spring sunshine, children get some fresh air and exercise, and there’s usually some chocolate
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involved! It’s also a great time of year to get up close to cute baby lambs with farm parks proving a big draw for young animal lovers. We’ve got pages of Spring themed events in our Time Out guide starting on page 27 but here are a few of our favourites.
Easter trail around Windsor Great Park The fun family Easter Trail around The Royal Landscape of Windsor Great Park comprises of fun clues to solve, and things to look out for, with a small treat at the end for participants. The cost to enter is £2.50 per leaflet (includes prize), which can be purchased from The Savill Building (go to page 24 for 50p off). Now in its fifth year, this trail is becoming a must do for families at Easter
time and will run from 31 March to 9 April, from 10am to 4.30pm. Visitors will also be able to enjoy the spring plant collections and fine floral displays, which provide the perfect backdrop for a great family day out. 01784 435544; www.theroyallandscape.co.uk Normal car parking charges apply and the trail does not go into The Savill Garden.
Easter Sunday Hunts If you’re looking for somewhere to go on Easter Sunday itself then why not head over to South Hill Park in Bracknell? To tie in with their Easter Show, James and the Giant Peach, visitors can explore the grounds and hunt for eggs from 10.15am the first person to find the giant peach wins a prize! There will also be Easter Egg workshops running. It’s advisable to prebook these at a cost of £4.50,which includes entry into the egg hunt. There will be a giant Easter Egg Parade – so bring your own decorated egg or one you’ve made in the workshops – and the Mayor will judge the winner who will receive two tickets for James and the Giant Peach. For more details call 01344 484 123 or visit www.southhillpark.org.uk Wellington Country Park is also expecting a visit from the Easter Bunny on 8 April. Join him for a day of Easter craft activities, competitions and the Wellington Country Park Easter Egg Hunt. 0118 932 6444, www.wellington-countrypark.co.uk
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Spring Days Out
Join the Big Egg Hunt in London If you are planning a trip to London with older children over the Easter period then keep a look out for over 200 fabulous eggs that will be appearing in the capital from now until 8 April. The 2½ foot high fibreglass eggs have been created by famous designers, artists and jewellers such as Vivienne Westwood and Zandra Rhodes and form part of Fabergé’s record-breaking Big Egg Hunt. Join the search and
journey through the city, picking up clues along the way for a truly original and interactive Easter experience. Collect your map or download your app from www.thebigegghunt.co.uk and get cracking, with a range of clues to suit even the savviest of detectives. At the end of the hunt, the eggs will be auctioned off with proceeds going to two charities: Action For Children and Elephant Family.
Follow a Cadburys Easter Egg Trail Have some family fun at Odds Farm
Photo: NTPL/Stuart Cox
The National Trust is again running Easter Egg Trails supported by Cadbury at hundreds of its properties. For a small additional charge, children can follow clues around some of the loveliest parklands around and then claim a chocolate egg as their prize. Local NT properties include Basildon Park which has events running from 31 March-9 April and Greys Court at Rotherfield Greys, near Henley with Easter trails on 4-5 April. Or how about hunting for clues in the beautiful grounds of Cliveden House, near Taplow? Trails run there from 6-9 April and you can also get your face painted. For more details visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Make a day of it at Bucklebury Farm Park With farm animals, new baby lambs to bottle-feed, indoor and outdoor play areas, tractor and trailer rides and nature trails there’s plenty to keep the family occupied at Bucklebury Farm Park. This 74-acre farm lies in beautiful Berkshire countryside between Reading and Thatcham. And between 6-10 April you can also go on an Easter egg hunt. Find out more at www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Don’t forget our Time Out section is full of lots more events and activities!
Telephone: 01628 627 586
MARCH/APRIL 2012
It’s a busy time at Odds Farm Park with lots of new additions to the farm. From 31 March-15 April, children can bottle feed lambs and see all the other new baby animals. They can also follow the Spring trail around the farm and get a yummy treat, and board the daily tractor & trailer rides for a fun tour of the farm.You can meet the farmers and get extra close to the animals in the ‘Hands-on’ area, in the large undercover animal barns, open all day and with extra hand-washing facilities too. Stroke bunnies, hand feed goats and sheep, meet cheeky pigs and more. Plus, within the new giant indoor Playbarn, you’ll find a massive adventure play area including 4 lane Astra slide, 2 large drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes & tunnels, swinging ropes and much more. With special toddler and under 5’s areas, there’s bags of fun for all ages. Combined with the outdoor play, including the adventure maze, Go-karts, log play areas and crazy golf, there’s so much to do. Award winning Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield. For full details, visitors should call 01628 520 188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Great
Competitions
Win a Trip To LEGOLANDⓇ We have two family tickets to give away for the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort. New from March ‘May the Force be with you’ as the UK’s only LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland Experience comes to LEGOLAND® Windsor recreating seven of the most famous scenes from the classic Star Wars™ films including a scene from the animated series: Star Wars: The Clone Wars, using around 1.5 million LEGO® bricks. Plus why not extend your stay at the new Resort Hotel featuring fully themed bedrooms, pirate themed splash pool and the Bricks Family Restaurant. LEGOLAND is open again for the 2012 season on 16th March and the two lucky winners’ tickets will be valid for any one day until the end of the season – 5th November. For more information go to www.legoland.co.uk
To enter this competition go to: www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions. Closing date April 10. Star Wars and all characters, names and related indicia are © 2012 Lucasfilm Ltd. & TM. All rights reserved. LEGO®, the LEGO logo, the Brick configuration, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO® Group © 2012 The LEGO Group.
Win a Day out at ODDS FARM Guaranteed to give you the Ahhhh factor, there's plenty of Family Fun this Easter at Odds Farm Park and we have five Entry Tickets for 2 Adults and 2 Children to give away! From 31 March to 15 April, children can follow the Spring Trail around the farm and get a Yummy Treat, Bottle Feed Lambs and, back for 2012, board the daily Tractor & Trailer Rides for a fun tour of the farm*. Award winning Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield. For full details, visitors should call 01628 520188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk. *(April-October, Weather Permitting).
To enter this competition go to: www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions. Closing date April 10.
WIN a Family Ticket to LET’S ROCK THE MOOR 2012!! Let’s Rock The Moor! will be returning for its 4th year on Saturday May 12 with a massive 80’s line up and plenty to do for everyone! Families has three sets of family tickets to giveaway for this great family charity event in Cookham. Billy Ocean, Go West, Heaven 17, Boney M with Maizie Williams, Toyah and China Crisis are all confirmed. More 80’s acts will be announced via their website and the event will be hosted by Pat Sharp and Dave Benson Philips. There will also be entertainment for children including a small circus, street entertainment and a variety of different catering options. Children’s rides (Bumper boats and Bubbles of fun) compliment this event alongside entertainment from Dave Benson Philips (CBBC/CITV/Disney Channel). Check out www.letsrockthemoor.com for full details. To enter go to: www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions. Closing date April 10.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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Easter Activities
Compiled by Leah Parr
re you bored of the park but don’t want your kids stuck in front of the TV? Why not enrol them in one of the many clubs and classes running during the Easter holidays. From Arts and Crafts to Watersports, there’s a whole alphabet of experiences on offer. Holiday activities can be a great experience for children: classes can play a big role in children’s physical and intellectual growth, whilst working with others helps them learn cooperation and teamwork. Ages 9-18 years - Explore creativity, Photo: Ruth Black - www.fotolia.com try something new and make friends Below is a selection of what is on in your local area: along the way...
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Funky Youth Art and Craft Activities
A friendly and inviting space for teenagers in which to explore creativity, experiment with a variety of artistic materials to develop art portfolio/sketch books, design and make funky possessions, or work towards the nationally recognised Arts Award. A truly unique experience with a wealth of new and inspiring ideas.
Workshops•Demonstrations•Master Classes•Quality Materials•Professional Artists•Courses•Projects•Art Award and... FUN! For detail of current workshops and masterclass sessions
phone 01628 687440 email: holidayclub@clairescourt.com or visit: www.clairescourt.com
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BRAY LAKE WATERSPORTS is running a variety of activity courses for children aged 8-15 years, from Monday 2 April to Friday 6 April, and Monday 9 April to Friday 13 April. Courses range from multi-activity weeks (windsurfing, dinghy sailing and paddlesports) to specific training courses for windsurfing, sailing and kayaking. Early booking is advisable. For further information on times and cost go to www.braylake.com/kids-activities, call: 01628 638860 or email: info@braylake.com CLAIRES COURT SCHOOL is running holiday clubs at The College, College Avenue, Maidenhead, from Monday 2 April to Thursday 5 April and from Tuesday April 10 to Friday April 13, from 9am-4.30pm for ages 3-12. Extended hours are possible (£1.50 per half hour). Cost: £30 per day per child if booking at least a week before holiday, otherwise £40. 01628 687440; www.clairescourt.com Art and Craft Club at CLAIRES COURT SCHOOL is running specialist workshops and masterclasses at The College, College Avenue, Maidenhead, from Monday 2 April to Thursday 5 April and from Tuesday April 10 to Friday April 13, full or half days for ages 9-18. Activities include Art Masterclasses with professional artists, Felt making, craft projects, Warhammer Club and much more. Places limited so register NOW 01628 687440; www.clairescourt.com DELGADO TENNIS CAMPS at Wycombe High School, Widmer End LTC, and St Pirans School, Gringer Hill, Maidenhead; all from Monday April 2 to Thursday April 5 and from Monday April 9 to Thursday April 12. Times at St Pirans, Wycombe High and WELTC: 9-11am for ages 4-6; 11am-2pm or 11am-4pm for ages 7-16. Cost: 9-11am £12/day, £38/week with early booking discount £35/week; 11-2pm £18/day, £60/week, with early booking discount £50/week; 11-4pm £25/day, £90/week, with early booking disount £80/week. 07818 052206; www.delgadotennis.co.uk HANDS-ON-ART ADVENTURES will be running a Kids Club each morning 10am-11:30am (Tues-Fri) over the Easter Holidays consisting of painting, printing, collage, clay modelling... Also 'Potters Wheel' event where anyone (kids & parents) can book a 15-minute lesson on the potters wheel for £5- pots can be painted and fired once they have fully dried out a week later for a further £5. www.hands-onartadventures.co.uk; 01753 206265 iFashionDesign Design and create clothes and accessories at their Fashion School for 8-14 year olds at The Beaconsfield School this Easter. Parties and term time courses also available. Call 01494 578577, email info@ifashiondesign.co.uk or visit www.ifashiondesign.co.uk. MARLOW TENNIS ACADEMY is running Easter tennis camps and Mult-sports camps at the Court Garden Leisure Complex, Pound Lane, Marlow, from Tuesday April 3rd to Thursday April 5th and from Wednesday April 11 to Friday April 13. Coordination course (ages 6-8) only during the first week from 9-10.30am (£24); Half days from 10am-1pm (£45). New customers who quote Families can get a 10% discount. 01628 488438; www.marlowtennisacademy.co.uk PERFORM WINDSOR is running Alice in Wonderland - a three-day experience at Clewer Youth and Community Centre, Parsonage Lane, Windsor, from Monday 2 to Wednesday April 4, 10am-12pm, for ages 4-8. Cost: £90. Early bird, group, and sibling discounts available. 0845 4001282; www.perform.org.uk A PASSION FOR…DANCE Super Camps has teamed up with Popstars Academy for the 3rd year to bring weeklong dance workshops for ages 6-10 concluding with an informal Performance! To book your child’s place visit www.PopstarsAcademy.com and click on the Passion For.... link. SERIOUSLY FUN SWIMMING SCHOOL is running holiday courses at St Pirans School, Gringer Hill, Maidenhead and Teikyo Japanese School in Wexham, from Monday April 9 to Friday April 13. Cost: £40. 0844 3511463 (Maidenhead)/0844 3511461 (Wexham); www.seriouslyfun.com STAGECOACH MAIDENHEAD is running HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS at Altwood CofE School, Maidenhead, from Tuesday 10 – Friday 13 April. Ages: 7-18, Times: 10am-4pm, Cost: £100, sibling price £50. Ages 4-6; Times: 9.30am – 12.30pm, Cost £60, sibling price £30. Call 0118 950 0999 to book. THE GAP CLUB is running a Holiday Club at King's Court First School, Ashbrook Road, Old Windsor, from Monday April 2 to Friday April 13 (closed on Good Friday and Easter Monday). Times: 8.30am-4.30pm or 6.30pm. Cost: £22 per regular day, £27 per full day. Early booking discounts available. 07854 078728; www.thegapclub.com
MARCH/APRIL 2012
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Time Out
Compiled by Trynke Casale
The Diary of Anne Frank, Theatre Royal, Windsor; 12 to 17March
Burnham Beeches Treespotting Walk March 20
Thursday March 1 to Saturday March 31. SPRING TRAIL at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 10am-5pm. Pick up a free trail leaflet from the Information Centre and enjoy the beautiful woodlands and parks of Cliveden. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk. In weekends and daily in school holidays till Sunday May 6. THE BIG DINOSAUR SHOW at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell. 11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.15pm. Suitable for ages 4+. 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscovery. From Friday March 2 to Tuesday April 3. GOD SAVE THE QUEEN Diamond Jubilee exhibition in the newly refurbished and re-opened Maidenhead Heritage Centre, Park Street, Maidenhead. A look at Maidenhead's connections with the monarchy over the centuries. 01628 780555; maidenheadheritage.org.uk. Sunday March 4. BUNNY FUN RUN starting and ending in Oaken Grove Park, Maidenhead. New 5k charity fun run through Maidenhead, starting at 9.30am, organised by the Maidenhead Rotary Club. Registration is open to all, including children, and includes a bunny outfit. Cost: adults £14, children 12-18 £9, children 6-12 £5, free for children under six.Visit www.maidenheadthamesrotary.org for more details. Sunday March 4. WINDSOR EMPORIUM at the Guildhall, High Street Windsor. 10am-4pm. Arts, crafts and antiques fair on the first floor of the Guildhall. Also visit the Vintage Tea Room- serving homemade refreshments. 07900 285919. windsoremporium.co.uk Saturday March 10. BINFIELD TODDLERS NEARLY NEW SALE at Binfield CE Primary School, Benetfield Road, Binfield. 2.30-4pm. Entry: £1. Children’s clothes, toys, equipment, maternity wear. Binfieldtoddlers.co.uk. Saturday March 10 and Sunday March 11. ART EXHIBITION, CRAFT, GIFT AND FOOD FAIR at Juniper Hill School, Churchill Close, Flackwell Heath. 11am-5pm. Original art, locally produced and made food and crafts, plus junior art gallery (ages 4-11). Get Creative workshops for kids. Entry: £1, under 16s free. 01628 298960; 07546 815551. Sunday March 11. THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF COOPER HILL WOODS, near Runnymede, meeting at the top of Coopers Hill Lane, Englefield Green, off St Jude's Road. 11am-12.30pm. Guided walk. Booking essential. Tickets: adults £5, children £2, via 0844 2491895; or for more information: 01784 432891; nationaltrust.org.uk. Sunday March 11. NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at Sir William Ramsey School, Rose Avenue, Hazlemere, High Wycombe. 11.30am-12.45pm (NCT members at 11am). Good quality toys, books, games, maternity and children’s clothes, large equipment such as buggies, cots and high chairs. Entry: £1 donation. 0844 243 6166; nct.org.uk.
Monday March 12 to Saturday March 17. THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK, Pulitzer-prizewinning play of Anne’s famous diary, at the Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor. 8pm on Monday to Saturday, matinees on Thursday at 2.30pm and Saturday at 4.45pm. Tickets: £11-£31.50. 01753 853888; theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk. Also on at the Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe, from Tuesday March 27 to Saturday March 31. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk. Friday March 16 and Saturday March 17. BUGSY MALONE at the Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. 7.30pm, also at 2pm on Saturday. Amateur production of this slapstick musical comedy by Eagle House School. Tickets: adults £13, concessions £10. 01344 484123; southhillpark.org.uk. Friday March 16 and Saturday March 17. ANGEL, a theatre production suitable for ages 10+, at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. Friday at 10.30am and Saturday at 11.30am. New writing about childhood and ageing. Two old people embark on an adventure they started when they were young. Tickets: All seats £8, family of four £29. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org. Saturday March 17. MOTHER’S DAY POSIES at Herschel Park, Datchet Road, Slough. Make your mum a posy with the help of flower arranger Veronica Turner. Booking essential. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk/herschelpark. Saturday March 17. NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at the Egham Leisure Centre,Vicarage Lane, Egham by the Staines, Ashford and Egham branch. 10.30am-12noon (early entrance for NCT members at 10.15am). Entry: £1.50 per adult. 0844 243 6279; nct.org.uk. Saturday March 17. NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at Great Marlow School, Bobmore Lane, Marlow. 1.30-3pm, early entrance for NCT members at 1.15pm. Entry: £1. 0844 2436197; nct.org.uk. Saturday March 17. MUSEUM SATURDAY CLUB at the Slough Museum, ground floor, Slough Library, High Street, Slough. 12.15-1.45pm. Free, family-friendly drop-in activities. Create cards for St Patrick’s Day and Mother’s Day. 01753 526422; sloughmuseum.org. Saturday March 17. HANDEL’S MESSIAH, 175th anniversary concert by the Windsor & Eton Choral Society at the Eton College School Hall, High Street, Eton. 7.30-9.45pm. Handel’s Messiah was the first work ever performed by the society in January 1837. Tickets: £18.50/£16.50. 01628 528041; w-ecs.org.uk. Saturday March 17. COMMOTION IN THE SQUARE – part of Henley Youth Festival (March 16-24), in Henley Town Centre. Cinema from 10am-12noon; activities at Falaise Square from 11am: bike stunt demonstrations, interactive sculpture, live music. Bookable art workshops for children. For full programme, visit www.hyf.org.uk.
JLS Supporting Sport Relief Weekend 22 to 25 March
MARCH Sunday March 18. LITTLE BO PEEP with Sea Legs Puppet Theatre at the Studio Theatre, South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. 11am and 3pm. A show for ages 2-7. Come and sing along to your favourite nursery rhymes. Tickets: adults £10, children £6. 01344 484123; southhillpark.org.uk. Sunday March 18. MOTHER’S DAY at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 10am-4pm. Bring in your mum for free. Free winetasting sessions (while stocks last) and fun trail about the great ladies of Cliveden’s past. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk. Sunday March 18. MOTHER’S DAY at the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Station Approach, Station Road, Chinnor. Free travel and flowers for mums. Trains start at 10.15am, last train at 4.30pm. Talking timetable: 01844 353535; chinnorrailway.co.uk. Sunday March 18. MOTHER’S DAY at The Savill Garden, Wick Lane, Englefield Green. Mums go free! Enjoy the gardens, The Savill Building with gift shop, plant centre, restaurant and art gallery. Horse drawn carriage rides run all day between 11am-4pm. theroyallandscape.co.uk Tuesday March 20. TREE SPOTTING, a guided morning-walk at the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. Learn to identify ‘naked’ trees. Booking essential. 01753 647358; cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnham. Saturday March 24. TEACHERS' OPEN DAY AT WOOLLEY FIRS, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead. 11am-4pm. Chance to visit the new Environmental Education Centre at Woolley Firs. Bring your families to try out the tree trail or the activities in the Centre. For more info, contact lynnhughes@bbowt.org.uk. Saturday March 24. HANDEL’S MESSIAH sung by Cantorum Choir at the Holy Trinity Church in Cookham. 7.30-10pm. Tickets: £12 (students £6), via 01628 525371 or via Stationery Depot, Station Parade, Cookham Rise; cantorumchoir.org.uk. Saturday March 24 and Sunday March 25. FEEL THE FORCE! LEGO STAR WARS MINILAND EXPERIENCE – Special events celebrating the official opening of the new Star Wars Miniland Experience at Legoland, Winkfield Road, Windsor. 10am-6pm. Meet Star Wars characters, including a Stormtrooper battalion, Jedi training camp, Droid building workshops, life size Star Wars vehicles and lots more. www.legoland.co.uk. (Legoland opens again on Friday March 16 for the new season). Saturday March 24 and Sunday March 25. PRE-SEASON FREE OPEN AFTERNOONS at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. 1-5pm. The Museum will open again fully for the season on Saturday March 31. 01494 871117; coam.org.uk.
Slough Gymnastics Club l
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A British Gymnastics club providing: Opportunities to achieve in a happy, safe environment. British Gymnastics badge scheme and development programs. Classes for all ... ages 2-102!! See our moves online and come and visit our dedicated facility ... email: info@sloughgymnastics.co.uk Tel 01753 532 176 Tel 0788 44 77 013
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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Time Out
Photo:The Royal Landscape
Racecourse
Easter Egg and Spoon Challenge Painshill Park; April 2-5 & 10-13
Easter Egg Hunt, starting from the Savill Garden; 31 March to 9 April
Countryside Alliance Family Day 1 April
Sunday March 25. TREES AT HERSCHEL PARK, off Datchet Road, Slough. 2-3.30pm. Early spring stroll in Herschel Park, recently restored to its Victorian glory. Take a closer look at the trees of the park with Tony Down, Herschel Park Management Officer. Meet at the park kiosk. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk/whatson. Sunday March 25. SPORT RELIEF CHARITY RUNS in our area: THE FARNHAM COMMON MILE, at the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. 9am-12noon. THE SLOUGH MILE, in Upton Park, Upton Court Road, Slough. 11am-4pm. THE MARLOW COURT GARDEN MILE at the Court Garden Leisure Complex, Pound Lane, Marlow. 9.30am-1.30pm. THE EVREHAM SPORTS CENTRE MILE, Swallow Street, Iver. 10.30am-1pm. THE BINFIELD MILE at Popes Meadow, St Marks Road, Binfield. 8.30am-1.30pm. THE ACHIEVE LIFESTYLE EGHAM MILE at the Egham Leisure Centre,Vicarage Lane, Egham. 10.30am-1pm. One, three and six mile routes to choose from. Entertainment, music and activities throughout the day, activities, games, local produce and competitions for everyone to enjoy. Entry: adults £6, children £3, family £15. my.sportrelief.com Sunday March 25. EARLY SPRING BIRDWATCH at Lightwater Country Park, The Avenue, Lightwater. Start at 10am. Two-hour birdwatching walk. Free. 01276 479582; surreyheath.gov.uk. OKLAHOMA! Rodgers and Hammerstein’s first musical by the Maidenhead Musical Comedy Society at the Desborough Suite, St Ives Road, Maidenhead. Wednesday to Friday at 7.45pm, Saturday at 1pm and 6pm, Sunday at 2.30pm. Tickets: £15. 07979 382250; mmcsonline.co.uk. Saturday March 31. DAFFODIL WALK at Waltham Place Farm, Church Hill, White Waltham, Maidenhead. Guided walk followed by cakes and tea. Walks start at 2pm from the Ormandy Centre. Booking essential. Tickets: adults £7, children £3 (5-16), under 5s free. 01628 825517; walthamplace.com.
Saturday March 31. HAYMILL VALLEY SPRING SCAVENGER HUNT, meet at the playground on the corner of Whittaker Road and Marescroft Avenue, Slough. 1-4pm. Help the Easter Bunny complete a scavenger hunt and receive a chocolate reward for your efforts. Drop in at any time, Light refreshments provided. Free event. 01628 829574 ext 202, rhiannonharrington@bbowt.org.uk Saturday March 31 to Monday April 9. EASTER TRAIL starting from The Savill Garden, Wick Lane, Englefield Green. Follow the fun family trail around Windsor Great Park. Cost: £2.50 per trail. Start from The Savill Building (see money off coupon on page 24). theroyallandscape.co.uk Saturday March 31 to Sunday April 15. EASTER FUN at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common. Follow a Spring Trail around the farm, with prizes. Plus daily bottle-feeding of newborn lambs, the return of Tractor and Trailer rides and lots more. 01628 520188; oddsfarm.co.uk. Saturday March 31 to Sunday April 15. TUDOR AND STUART FASHION - EASTER FAMILY ACTIVITIES at Windsor Castle. Not on Good Friday or Easter Sunday. Arts and crafts in the Moat Room, two special trails (one for 5-7 year olds and one for 7-11 year olds), plus costume-handling sessions. For exact dates, please visit: www.royalcollection.org.uk/learning. Saturday March 31 to Sunday April 15. EASTER HOLIDAY FUN AND ACTIVITIES at Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, Reading. With circus skills and trapeze workshops, Magic Shows, Clowns, Baby Big Top Circus (April 6-9), Easter egg hunt with the Easter Bunny on Easter Sunday, Crazy Bikes to try, and an Animal Farm Weekend on April 14 and 15, where you can meet Alpacas or shire horses, amongst many others. 01189 326 444; wellington-country-park.co.uk. Saturday March 31 to Sunday April 15. EASTER ‘EGG’STRAVAGANZA in the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. EASTER EGG HUNT, For more information on other activities organised during the holidays, visit www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnham, or ask at the kiosk. 01753 647358. Starting from Saturday March 31 to Sunday April 15. EASTER EGG TRAIL at Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. 11am-4pm. Egg hunt around the garden, plus 'eggstravagant' crafts to make and take home. Includes a yummy prize for the children. Cost: £2 per trail. 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.
Saturday March 31 to Sunday April 15. EASTER EGG HUNT at the River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley. 10am-5pm. Eggsplore the Museum galleries to hunt for clues and help solve a puzzle to claim a mini Easter egg. Free with admission. 01491 415600; rrm.co.uk.
EASTER HOLIDAY Saturday March 31. MUSEUM SATURDAY CLUB at the Slough Museum, ground floor, Slough Library, High Street, Slough. 12.15-1.45pm. Free, family-friendly drop-in activities. Make your own Easter Bunny mask. 01753 526422; sloughmuseum.org. Saturday March 31. COME OUT TO PLAY at Herschel Park, Datchet Road, Slough. 1-4pm. Fun activities for children of all ages, in cooperation with Slough Museum, Sure Start, Slough Borough and local churches. Join a 25m relay race, plus lots of play equipment. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk/herschelpark.
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
MARCH/APRIL 2012
APRIL Sunday April 1. COUNTRYSIDE RACE DAY AND FAMILY DAY at Ascot Racecourse, Ascot. Gates open 10.45am, last race 5.30pm. In cooperation with the Countryside Alliance. A day at the races, plus a parade of hounds after the first race, sheep dog demonstrations (herding disobedient geese), terrier racing and falconry display. Climbing activities and quad biking, family farm and shooting gallery available too. Grandstand Admission: £18; under 18s go free. 0844 3463000; ascot.co.uk. Sunday April 1. WINDSOR EMPORIUM at the Guildhall, High Street, Windsor. 10am-4pm. Arts, crafts and antiques fair on the first floor of the Guildhall, just above Windsor Museum. With Vintage Tea Room and cakes by Happy Cakes. 07900 285919; windsoremporium.co.uk. Every day till Sunday April 15 (starting on Sunday March 25). EASTER EGG HUNT AND EASTER CRAFTS at the REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Arborfield. 9.30am-4pm. Spot all the eggs hidden by the Easter Bunny, plus craft-based activities for all. General admission: adults £5, children £4, family £15. 0118 9763375; rememuseum.org.uk. Monday April 2 and Tuesday April 3. THE TALE OF BUGSY MALONE - Easter Two-Day Workshop at the Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor. 9.30am-5.30pm daily, with a 5.30pm presentation in the Circle Bar on Tuesday. Open to all actors, singers and dancers aged 6-18. Cost: £70. Apply via the website or call 01753 863444; theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk. Monday April 2 to Thursday April 5, Tuesday April 10 to Friday April 13. THE GREAT EASTER EGG AND SPOON CHALLENGE at Painshill Park, Portsmouth Road, Cobham. 12-4pm. See if you can make it round all the obstacles without dropping your egg. For ages 2-13. Included in normal admission price. 01932 868113; painshill.co.uk. Monday April 2 to Saturday April 14. SPRING HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. Every day: BRASS RUBBING BONANZA, free drop in activities. (Suitable for all ages) and EGG HUNT, 10am-4.30pm. Cost: £1.25, drop-in activity. Craft sessions by themed tickets on the day: SPRINGY THINGS on Tuesday 3 and Thursday 5. DAZZLING DINOSAURS on Tuesday 10 and Thursday 12. Cost: £2.50 per child. Sessions at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. ASTROSAURS on Friday April 13. 11am-12pm, 1-2pm or 2.30-3.30pm. Free workshop led by Explore Learning for ages 6-8. Booking essential. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum. Tuesday April 3. EASTER FUN at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. 10am-5pm. Terrific Tuesday and Holiday Club activities for the whole family. Ticket prices for 2012: adults £8.80, children (5-16) £5.50, family tickets from £17.60 (1+2). 01494 871117; coam.org.uk. Tuesday April 3. BLUEBELL WALK at Northerams Wood, next to Ringmead Playing Fields, Wheatley, Bracknell. 9-11am. Learn about the flowers and wildlife in this ancient woodland. Suitable for all ages. Booking required. 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parksevents. Tuesday April 3. WILD ONES – EASTER TREASURE HUNT at Lily Hill Park, Lily Hill Road, Bracknell. Drop in anytime between 1-3pm to complete an Easter trail through the park and earn a chocolate prize. Cost: £2 for materials. Booking required. 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parksevents. Tuesday April 3 to Thursday April 5. EASTER FUN at the River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley. Tuesday: WHO IS THE GREEN MAN? Children’s workshop at
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Time Out
Easter Egg Trails, National Trust Properties; 6 to 9 April
Extreme Tour, Windsor Racecourse; 9 April
Little Red Riding Hood at the Firestation, Windsor; 11 to 14 April
10.30am-12.30pm. For ages 7-11. Tickets: £8.50. Wednesday: TAYLOR TUG’S EASTER HOLIDAY HAPPENING from 11am-12.30pm. Find out about all the baby animals and birds that come to the river in Spring. Creative session for under 5s. Cost: £8. Booking essential for both workshops. Thursday: TOAD ON THE THAMES, family event with Froglife from 10.30am-4pm. Learn about frogs and toads. Fun activities and froggy arts and crafts. Pond-dipping sessions (11.30am, 1pm & 2.30pm), booking essential. Free with admission. 01491 415600; rrm.co.uk. Tuesday April 3 and Wednesday April 4. TRAIL TRACKERS at Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. 11am-12.30pm. Kids can be a 'Trail Tracker' around the park with the help of a map and the Hughenden’s Ranger team. Booking essential. Cost: £4 per child. 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk. Also on Tuesday April 10 and Wednesday April 11. Tuesday April 3 to Friday April 13. EXTRA-USUAL EASTER EGG HUNT at the Roald Dahl Museum, High Street, Great Missenden. Egg hunts around the museum throughout the Easter holidays. Free with admission. Lots of craft and storytelling activities on during the holidays. 01494 892192; roalddahlmuseum.org. Wednesday April 4. WILD WEDNESDAY – WEEDS AND SEEDS at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 11am-3pm. Join the Wild Wednesday club every Wednesday during school holidays for some outdoor adventures, for ages 4-11. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk. Wednesday April 4. BEE WILD at Larks Hill, off Harvest Ride, Warfield. 2-5pm. Discover more about bees. Taste local honey, candle making, beekeeper talks, treasure trail, craft activities. No need to book. Suitable for all ages. Cost: £3.50. 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parksevents. Wednesday April 4. EGGSTRAVAGANZA CRAFT WORKSHOP at the REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Arborfield. 11am-4pm. Create something eggstraordinary. Workshops held 3 times a day, no booking needed. 0118 9763375; rememuseum.org.uk. Wednesday April 4 and Thursday April 5. EASTER EGG HUNT at Greys Court, Rotherfield Greys, near Henley. 10am-12noon. Explore the gardens, follow the clues and find the chocolate prize. Cost: £1.50 per child. 01491 628529; nationaltrust.org.uk. From Wednesday April 4 to Friday April 13. EASTER SHOWS at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. All performances at 11.30am and 2pm. Wednesday April 4 and Thursday April 5. GOLDILOCKS by Little Angel Theatre at Norden Farm, Classic
story retold with a twist. With table-top puppetry and music. Suitable for ages 2+. Monday April 9 and Tuesday April 10. THE MAGNIFICENT FLYING MACHINE by Garlic Theatre. Follow the wacky adventures of Professor Bix Horn as he tries to build a flying machine out of the most unlikely things. With puppets, a bowler hat and a trumpet. Suitable for ages 4+. Wednesday April 11 and Thursday April 12. MR ALBERT’S BIG FINISH by Magic Carpet Theatre. Mr Albert and Charlie the Caretaker are trying to save Mr Albert’s theatre by putting on a special show. Stories, juggling, comedy and joining in. Suitable for ages 4+. Friday April 13. HAIRY McCLARY. With music, singing and several favourites of the Hairy McClary stories. Suitable for ages 2+. Tickets: All seats £8, family of four £29. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org. Thursday April 5. MEET THE ANIMALS AND RABBIT HUNT at Herschel Park, Datchet Road, Slough. 11am-3.30pm. Feed or groom the animals of Basil & Crew’s mobile farm, plus Easter Rabbit Hunt around the park, and rabbit hat craft activity. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk/herschelpark. Thursday April 5 to Sunday June 10. OUR SPORTING LIFE, an exhibition at the Maidenhead Heritage Centre, Park Street, Maidenhead. Celebrating the Olympics and local sporting heroes. Please check opening times nearer the time. 01628 780555; maidenheadheritage.org.uk. Friday April 6 and Saturday April 7. NO LIMITS FESTIVAL at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. Fun activities for children and families. Activities start from just £2.50. Try out dance or drama workshops. For more information and times, visit www.nordenfarm.org Friday April 6 to Monday April 9. EASTER TRAIL at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 11am-4pm. Pick up a trail, hunt for clues and find your egg. Plus face painting. Cost: £2 per child. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk. Friday April 6 to Monday April 9. MEDIEVAL PAGEANT at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. 10am-5pm. Travel back in time during the Easter Bank Holiday Weekend. Ticket prices for 2012: adults £8.80, children (5-16) £5.50, family tickets from £17.60 (1+2). 01494 871117; coam.org.uk. Friday April 6 to Monday April 9. DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, near Aylesbury. Train rides, magic shows, Punch ‘n’ Judy, the Thomas Theatre, storytelling, arts and crafts, plus the Miniature Railway will be in action. Tickets: adults £13 (£15 on the day), children (2-15) £9 (£11). Booking hotline: 01296 655720; bucksrailcentre.org.
Friday April 6 to Monday April 9. EASTER SPECIALS at the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Station Approach, Station Road, Chinnor. Refreshments for all including a chocolate egg for children and a hot cross bun for adults. Easter chick hunt. Steam train rides start at 10.15am, last train at 4.30pm. Talking timetable: 01844 353535; chinnorrailway.co.uk. Friday April 6 to Monday April 9. EASTER STEAMINGS at Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot Parkway Station, Didcot. 10.30am-3.30pm. Rides behind a Broad Gauge locomotive, children’s activities with an Easter Egg Hunt, colouring competition and crafts, and lots more. 01235 817200; didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk. Saturday April 7 to Monday April 9. IVOR THE ENGINE comes to the Cholsey and Wallingford Railway, Hithercroft Road, Wallingford, or via Cholsey Station. Trains start from 11am, last train at 4.35pm (from Cholsey). Meet Ivor the Engine and other favourite characters such as "Jone's the Steam". Return fares: adults £8, children (4-16) £4.50, infants (2-3) £2.50, family (2+2) £23. 01491 835067; cholsey-wallingford-railway.com. Sunday April 8. EASTER EGG ACTIVITY TRAIL AND COMPETITION at Runnymede, Windsor Road, Old Windsor. 10am-4pm. Fun for all the family. Easter egg and puzzle trail in the riverside meadows and woodlands of Runnymede, and 'Design Your Own Egghead' competition. No booking needed. Cost: £3 per child. 01784 432891; nationaltrust.org.uk. Sunday April 8 to Saturday April 14. JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH at the Wilde Theatre, South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. 7.30pm, also at 2pm on Sunday 8th, Monday 9th and Saturday 14th. Roald Dahl’s well-known story retold by the Wilde Community Theatre Company. Tickets: adults £17, concessions £16, members £15, family £46. 01344 484123; southhillpark.org.uk. Easter Monday April 9. CADBURYS EASTER EGG TRAIL on the Maidenhead and Cookham Common, Pinkneys Drive, Maidenhead. 11am-3pm. Trails start from the car park on Pinkneys Drive, 100m from the junction with Henley Road. Follow the trail, plus enjoy face painters, giant snakes and ladders, sack races, the egg shy and much more. Free entry, but cost per trail: £3. 07796 941 065; eastereggtrail.com. Monday April 9. THE EXTREME STUNT SHOW at Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, Windsor. 3pm. Witness some daredevil trickery on wheels, with monster trucks, motorcross backflips, car stunts and lots more. Tickets will go on sale in March, please visit www.extremeeventseurope.com for more details.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
MARCH/APRIL 2012
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
29
Time Out
30
For up to date information, go to www.familiesonline.co.uk/whatson
Herschel Park, Slough; 13 April
Dawn Chorus, Cliveden; 14 and 21 April
BCA Open Weekend, Maidenhead; 21 and 22 April
Tuesday April 10. SPRING SENSATION at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles. 10am-5pm. Terrific Tuesday and Holiday Club activities for the whole family. 01494 871117; coam.org.uk. Wednesday April 11. ROMANS REVEALED at Bourne End Library, Wakeman Road, Bourne End. 10.30-11.15am and 11.30am-12.15pm. In cooperation with the Wycombe Museum. Discover facts about the Romans, plus craft activities. Free, but book your place at the library. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum. Wednesday April 11. WILD WEDNESDAY – BUG HUNTING at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 11am-3pm. Join the Wild Wednesday club every Wednesday during school holidays for some outdoor adventures, for ages 4-11. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk. Wednesday April 11 to Saturday April 14. LITTLE RED RIDING HOOD by Soap Soup Theatre at the Firestation Arts Centre, St Leonards Road, Windsor. Every day at 4pm, Saturday also at 11am. Re-invention of the classic tale, with puppets and original music, suitable for children aged 5-10yrs. Tickets: adults £10, children £8. 01753 866865; firestationartscentre.com. Thursday April 12. MINISHELTER WORKSHOP at the REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Arborfield. 9.30am-4pm. Can you build a shelter in 15 minutes? Workshops held 3 times a day, no booking needed. 0118 9763375; rememuseum.org.uk. Thursday April 12. GRAZING, IT’S AMAZING! Informative sessions at the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. The cattle have moved back on site. Meet them and find out why they’re needed. Drop-in throughout the morning. 01753 647358; cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnham. Thursday April 12 and Friday April 13. IN COURT WITH QUEEN VICTORIA: A MAHARAJAH AND A MUNSHI at the Bentley Education Centre, within Herschel Park, Datchet Road, Slough. 12noon-4pm. Multi-media exhibition created by Slough Museum about the hidden histories of Asians in Victorian Britain and how Victoria loved all things Indian. Victorian-inspired family activities on both days from 1-2pm. FANCY DRESS COMPETITION on Friday April 13. Dress up in Victorian Costume and try to win a family food hamper. Judging at 2pm. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk/herschelpark. Friday April 13. MINIBEASTS AND MORE at The Rye, Bassetsbury Lane, High Wycombe. Meet at 10am at the car park on the Rye. Explore the park and woodland with a Ranger looking for little creatures. Booking essential. Tickets: adults £4,
children £2, family £10. 01494 421825; wycombe.gov.uk/woodlandservice. Friday April 13. BAT WALK around Little Marlow lake and nature reserve. Meet at 7.15pm at the Spade Oak public car park, Coldmoorholme Lane, near Bourne End. Family favourite, flat circular walk looking for bats. Bat detectors available. Booking essential. Tickets: adults £4, children £2, family £10. 01494 421825; wycombe.gov.uk/woodlandservice. Saturday April 14. DAWN CHORUS at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. Starting at 5.30am in the Woodland Car Park, special guided tour to hear early birdsong. Booking essential. Tickets: adults £10, children £5. 0844 2491895; nationaltrust.org.uk. Also on Saturday April 21. Saturday April 14. ON YOUR BIKE! At Herschel Park, Datchet Road, Slough. 10am-12noon. Join Slough Free Wheelers cycle group for their monthly 6-mile, 2-hour cycle ride starting and finishing at Herschel Park car park. For all ages and abilities, accompanied children only. For more information, contact Gerald Pleace on 01753 875566 (email Gerald.pleace@slough.gov.uk). Saturday April 14. NOISY KIDS – HEROES AND VILLAINS, with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at The Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading. 11.30am-12.45pm. Superhero musical concert for the whole family with music from the Pirates of the Caribbean, Superman, Dr Who, The Lord of the Rings, Avatar and much more. Tickets: adults £8.50, children £6.50, family of four £23. 0118 9606060; readingarts.com. Sunday April 15. NATURE DETECTIVES: WOODLANDS AND BLUEBELLS at Runnymede, Old Windsor. Meeting point at the top of Coopers Hill Lane, Englefield Green, off St Jude's Road. 11am-12.30pm. Guided tour of the beautiful bluebell woods at Coopers Hill. Booking essential. Tickets: adults £5, children £2, via 0844 2491895. For more information: 01784 432891; nationaltrust.org.uk. Wednesday April 18 and Thursday April 19. SPECIAL TODDLER DAYS: BUGS AND BEASTIES at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell. 10am-4pm. Cost: £6.20 per parent and toddler, £1.40 each additional toddler (max. 3). 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscovery. Saturday April 21. LOUIS THE AMAZING BUBBLE MAN at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 11.30am and 2pm. With lots of audience participation. Suitable for ages 3+. Tickets: All seats £8, family of four £29. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org. Saturday April 21. BLUEBELL WALK at Waltham Place Farm, Church Hill, White Waltham, Maidenhead. Guided walk
followed by home-made organic cakes and tea or coffee. Walks start at 2pm from the Ormandy Centre. Booking essential. Tickets: adults £7, children £3 (5-16), under 5s free. 01628 825517; walthamplace.com. Saturday April 21 and Sunday April 22. OPEN DAYS AND LAMBING WEEKEND at the Berkshire College of Agriculture, Hall Place, Burchetts Green, Maidenhead. 10am-4pm. Attractions include: huskies, wolves, craft fayre, farmers market, sheep racing, equine displays, birds of prey flying demonstrations, dog fun show, tractor and trailer rides, floristry displays and workshops, lots of children’s activities, picnic areas and, of course, the lambs. Entry: £15 per car (£25 for a two day ticket). 01628 824444; bca.ac.uk. Sunday April 22. CAR DISPLAY on the Grand Avenue, Cliveden, Taplow. Watch a display of old and new Jaguars and Morris’s against the backdrop of the Cliveden Hotel, from 12noon to 3pm. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk. Sunday April 22. THE SOUNDS OF SPRING at Runnymede, Windsor Road, Old Windsor. 6-7.30am. Join a bird expert and a senior ranger on a gentle walk around Runnymede. Enjoy the dawn chorus and see the beautiful spring flowers in Coopers Hill Woods. Booking essential, limited places. Tickets: adults £5, children £2 via 0844 249 1895. 01784 432891; nationaltrust.org.uk. Tuesday April 24 and Wednesday April 25. THE GRUFFALO, by Tall Stories at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. 1.30pm, Wednesday also at 10.30am. Touring since 2001, popular adaptation of the nation’s favourite bedside story. Tickets: £12. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk. Friday April 27 to Sunday April 29. HENLEY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL – FOOD IN FILM, Mill Meadows, Henley. Food demonstrations and films. Special kids events: All day kids films screenings in a mobile vintage cinema. Pottery painting workshops and a Slow Cooking UK interactive area. Saturday: free workshop with Stageworks from 11.30am-3pm, working on the classic ‘Oliver’ musical. Fireworks display on Saturday evening. www.the-hiff.co.uk. Saturday April 28. BIRDS BY SOUND AND SIGHT at Herschel Park, Datchet Road, Slough. Morning walk with a guide looking and listening out for the spring migrant birds settling in the park. Booking essential. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk/herschelpark. Sunday April 29. WILD ONES – BEGINNERS FISHING at Savernake Park, off Savernake Way, Bracknell. 10am-12pm or 1-3pm. Try your hand at fishing with experienced guides. Best suited for over 5s. Adult supervision essential. Rods, line and bait provided. Booking required. Cost: £2. 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parksevents.
MARCH/APRIL 2012
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
Arts & Crafts
Get creative with sticks...
Make a woody crown
Wondering what to do with that pile of sticks your children have accumulated? Get arty with these suggestions from The Stick Book.
• Bend green willow into a circle to fit your head; continue weaving the ends around until they are completely woven in and the circle is quite secure.
Make natural mobiles and wind chimes Try making natural mobiles and wind chimes to celebrate any occasion and hang them among trees or outside a window, where they can move and tinkle in the breeze.
• Twist a length of ivy, clematis stem or raffia around the crown base and then decorate with seasonal natural materials.
Make a nest
Easter mobile Weave willow rings (see Make a Woody Crown) and join them with fine wire to make an egg shape. Make a moss-lined nest (see below) to place in one ring. Decorate with blown egges, feathers and seasonal flowers.
Make a wind chime Search for loose natural materials that make a sound, such as broken shells, pebbles or hard seeds, and also man-made materials such as old buttons or bits of scrap metal (ring pulls, can lids, nails). Tie these along a stick, making sure they are close enough to knock together.
• Collect sticks, grasses, mud and perhaps moss, lichen, feathers, fluffy seed heads and sheep’s wool. Weave the sticks to make the base of a nest and then line it with softer materials. Put the nest somewhere protected and safe from predators, such as in a hedgerow or wall. • At Easter make several nests and hide them around the garden. Perhaps the Easter bunny will fill them with eggs…
There are over 70 projects to make with sticks in The Stick Book by local authors Jo Schofield and Fiona Danks (Frances Lincoln, £9.99), available from all good bookshops and Amazon from 15 March.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
MARCH/APRIL 2012
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
31
Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Spring book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online from Ed’s Reading Room at www.edontheweb.com. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools. Each month, recently published books are selected as Ed’s Books of the Month for Owlets (age 5-7) and Owls (over 7s). On the website, there are fun literacy activities to accompany each book, including wordsearches, quizzes, poetry and reviews, and there are new original stories in Edtime Stories. There are also lots of other fun online activities, complementary to the curriculum. Check out Ed’s Archive for Ed’s Books of the Month from previous months.
For Ages 5 to 7 years Seahorse Stars: The Lost Lagoon by Zuzu Singer (Usborne £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Cammie can’t wait to become a Seahorse Star but the next Wave Wanderer task is proving a bit of a problem. Finding her way around Rainbow Reef with a compass is fairly easy but Cammie gets into a complete muddle with maps. Will Cammie be able to complete the task successfully? And can she trust Corinetta who is usually far from friendly but now seems to want to be Cammie’s friend? ‘This is a lovely story about determination and friendship with great illustrations throughout. Why not collect all the books in this super series!’
For Ages 7 years plus More Meerkat Madness by Ian Whybrow (Harper Collins £4.99)
ED SAYS: ‘The young meerkats adore Uncle Fearless but they are not happy about his new female meerkat friend so they decide to go and look for their mama who has gone missing. They come across a young lion cub also looking for his mother. Once assured they are not going to be eaten by him, they agree to help him and so embark on another adventure in the desert. But problems arise. Will there be anyone to help them in their hour of need? ‘This is a delightfully funny story for newly confident readers to enjoy on their own or for reading together – another romp through the desert with these lovable meerkats!’
Wild:Tiger Trouble by Lucy Courtenay (Hodder £4.99) ED SAYS: ‘Taya and Tori Wild are twins who argue about most things – except about animals which is just as well as their lives revolve around them. Their father is a wildlife photographer and their mother looks after animals in need in their home, currently two tiger cubs. When their father becomes ill and can’t travel for work they start a new business with animals for films. Things are about to get really wild for the Wild family! ‘Here is an exciting and entertaining story for boys and girls alike, particularly for animal lovers. If you enjoy this book, look out for the other stories in this series.’
Lily by Holly Webb (Orchard Books £5.99)
ED SAYS: ‘Lily’s family were once powerful magicians but now hide away largely unseen. While Lily is allowed to roam around doing as she pleases, her sister Georgie, as the special one, is being trained in magic. Lily no longer resents her sister as she decides she is very lucky not to be seen as special. When Lily discovers their mother’s dark plot involving dreadful spells and magical weapons, she realises she must rescue Georgie. ‘This is the first story in a wonderful new series. It is action-packed – a real pageturner of a book.’
Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at mgh@edontheweb.com about the website or about Ed on the Web Spelling Bees in schools.
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Little Samurai for children aged 4 to 6
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Young Samurai for 7 to 12 year olds Martial arts classes that focus on the individual Classes with a maximum of 15 students Developing soft attributes such as confidence, concentration, leadership and the ability to socially integrate with self-protection and anti-bullying skills
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Do Babies have a “Social Brain”?
Bumps ‘n’ Babes
Scientists at the Babylab at Birbeck, University of London explain how their research can reveal new ideas about the way babies brains work. he capacity to engage and communicate in a social world is one of the defining characteristics of the human species. Adults have special areas of the brain, sometimes referred to as the “social brain”, which respond when we see different human actions, such as eye, mouth and hand movements, and also interpret how sociable and communicative these movements are. One question researchers are seeking to answer is, do babies respond to such sociable dynamic movements, and do they have a similarly sophisticated brain specialised for responding to such actions? This is important because paying attention to this kind of social information is fundamental to a child’s development, enabling them to find out information about the world around them, acquire language, and fully engage in our social world. Learning more about how a typical brain develops can also help us to see when and how things may go wrong during development, giving us a better understanding of many development disorders, such as autism. One of the greatest challenges faced by researchers when trying to answer such questions, is finding ways to understand what babies are thinking, as we cannot just ask them! At the Babylab at Birkbeck, University of London, we use a variety of techniques to obtain answers from babies. One such technique we have developed is known as functional Near InfraRed Spectroscopy, or “fNIRS”. This measures naturally occurring brain activity by looking at changes in oxygen levels in the brain. When areas of our brain are more active, for example because they are responding to what we are seeing or hearing, they use up more oxygen, and the colour of the blood in our brain changes. Babies wear a soft hat, just like the one baby Astrid is wearing in the photo. This hat contains weak near infrared lights, and wearing the hat is similar to shining a torch onto the baby’s head, except that these lights aren’t as strong as the light from a torch, or as
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Telephone: 01628 627 586
Baby Astrid wearing fNIRS hat any light occurring naturally in our environment. The near infrared lights change colour according to the colour of the blood, and this light change is then measured by sensors in the same hat, which give us a map of the naturally occurring brain activity. By looking at the different oxygen levels on this map, we can determine which areas of the brain are responding to different stimuli. In one of our studies, five-month-old babies were shown videos of actors moving their hand, eyes or mouth while wearing the fNIRS hat. Although it is too early to draw firm conclusions, preliminary results from this study suggest that babies are indeed able to detect subtle differences in the actions of the actors, showing responses in distinct areas of the brain that correspond with the socially specialised areas of the brain seen in adults. Infants do, therefore, appear to be sensitive to certain socially relevant movements from an early age, and these brain responses appear to be occurring in areas that are thought to make up the so-called “social brain” network in adults. Further research will establish whether babies are sensitive to such social cues from the moment they are born, or whether this ability gradually develops over the first few months of life. If you would like your baby or toddler to be involved in studies such as this, we would be very pleased to hear from you. We have lots of different studies going on at the Babylab, looking at various aspects of child development, and we are always in need of babies from birth to eighteen months to help us with our research. Travel costs are reimbursed. For more details call 020 7631 6258 or email babylab@bbk.ac.uk. www.cbcd.bbk.ac.uk
MARCH/APRIL 2012
CLASSES NOW IN WINDSOR, MAIDENHEAD & SLOUGH!
Please contact Elaine Dennis for further information Tel: 07876 338925 E-mail: elained@tinytalk.co.uk Website: www.tinytalk.co.uk
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Mums Who Mean Business How to get the most out of flexible working Mandy Garner, editor of workingmums.co.uk gives her top ten tips.
All about fun! The ultimate experience in children’s entertainment for 2-13 years Interactive party games Hi-energy action rhymes Multi-coloured parachute Assault course Mini indoor football Limbo dancing Fairies and pirates dressing-up adventure Sweets, stickers and prizes galore! Disco parties Going Home Presents
For further information contact Maxine Tel: 020 8573 6288 Mob: 07814 605175 www.chuckleparties.co.uk
1. When negotiating flexible working, make sure you think practically about what works for your family. For instance, make sure your childcare plans allow enough leeway so you don't end up rushing everywhere all the time. 2. Be incredibly organised. Have a list where you write down everything you have to do.You can then feel a sense of achievement as you tick it off, even if you are adding more things to it in the meantime. 3. Prepare all the school/nursery/childminder stuff you need in the morning the night before, including uniforms and lunch boxes. That way you only have to get the kids up, dressed, breakfasted and out in the morning. Anything more increases the stress levels and means you arrive at work as if you have been on a combat training course. 4. Try to plan ahead so you are not always rearranging childcare at the last minute. This includes inset days, holidays, Christmas plays, summer outings, etc, etc. 5. Have a back-up- back-up plan. Negotiate with your partner, if you have one, or any other form of support what you will do if there is an emergency such as school closure and try to share the
burden. If you know in advance that there is going to be an emergency such as a school strike negotiate with your work to see if you can work more flexibly that day, e.g., from home. 6. Multi-task. Try to save time by doing several things at once. If you are going out to drop someone off, make sure you remember to do all other tasks that need doing outdoors, eg posting a letter, en route. Eventually it will become a way of life. 7. Be good to your friends and family.You will need them. If a friend does you a favour, ensure you always repay it so that you can ask again in the future. 8. Simplify your life - say no to the things you don't need to do and build in some rest time into your life. Everyone needs a duvet day once in a while. 9. Ask your friends for tips on what makes their lives easier. It may be something as simple as tying your door keys round your neck to stop you from always scrabbling about for them. Learn from those who have gone before you. 10. Be your own best friend.You will spend your life doing things for other people. Ensure that you also build some time in for yourself, even if it is only to have a bath all by yourself. Workingmums.co.uk is a jobsite and community for working mums looking to work flexibly around their family. They also run events Workingmums.co.uk LIVE London is at the Business Design Centre, Islington on March 27th 2012. To register your free place visit www.WorkingmumsLIVE.co.uk/london
COULD NETWORKIING HELP YOU GROW YOUR BUSINESS? Self-employed Claire Fryer, has two children and decided to go freelance after the birth of her second son. As a PR and Marketing specialist, she was able to work from home with minimum set-up and fit work in around school runs and nursery sessions. After a short time of working alone, Claire joined forces with friend Lisa Vassallo and together started One to Three Marketing Solutions in February 2010. Speaking to friends and colleagues who had taken a similar leap of faith, the advice was to get out there and network - a good way to gain new clients, build your business and make invaluable business contacts. Claire remembers: “We were new to all of this and the thought of walking into a room full of strangers with our shiny new business cards filled us with minor horror!” After lots of background research, attending different networking events and following recommendations, Claire and Lisa decided to join the Women in Business Network (WIBN) and are pleased they did: the monthly business lunches deliver new business leads, new contacts, a friendly welcome and, as Claire says: “a real sense of being part of a team. Joining a networking group provides you with your own virtual office which helps to replace the infrastructure of working for a company.” Networking within the WIBN is all about building relationships with other businesswomen. The monthly meetings are structured around 30 minutes of open networking, informally chatting to the other members and visitors, followed by a more formal monthly “minute” that gives everyone a chance to speak for
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60 seconds about their business. Members are regularly invited to present a five-minute, more indepth, spotlight on their business too. Presentations can frighten people, but Claire speaks from her own experience when she says: “Everyone in my networking group is so supportive, you can remain seated if you’d prefer not to stand in front of the room. The only rule is: whatever makes you comfortable!” A set business topic is always discussed during lunch, such as time management, personal safety or dealing with difficult customers. After each meeting, members are encouraged to organize separate oneto-one sessions which give individuals the time to get to know each other better and fully understand their business. Claire says: “This also gives you access to a much wider network, as once somebody gets to know you they are more likely to recommend you to one of their friends or colleagues.” The annual membership fee and monthly sum to cover the cost of the meeting have been repaid time and again due to the direct and indirect business Claire and Lisa have gained as a result of networking. Claire enthuses: “Being members of the WIBN and getting to know the accountants, HR professionals, designers, curtain makers and jewellery stylists (just some of the members’ professions) has been vital in growing our business in the past two years.” The Women in Business Network runs local groups in Windsor, Maidenhead and Marlow. www.wibn.co.uk. Other women’s networks running local groups are The Athena Network (www.theathenanetwork.com) and Ladies who Latte (www.ladieswholatte.com).
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Classifieds
by Trynke Casale
EVERY PICTURE COULD TELL A STORY Victoria Wayland-Smith lives in the village of Taplow with husband Miv and children Theo and Scarlett. She runs a digital photobook company called Life in a Book, and creates beautiful coffee-table-style books out of old and new, traditional and digital photographs. Many of us have too many photographs and not enough time in the day to organise them “My children were born at the same time as digital cameras arrived and I found myself taking five times as many photographs as I used to,” Victoria remembers. “I couldn’t get enough of photographing every little milestone in their lives, but what to do with all these photographs became a real issue.” With a background in design and photography,Victoria began exploring digital photobook options and was soon creating coffeetable style books of her own family photographs. “Friends would pop over and be amazed by the books and I was soon being commissioned to make books for others.” That’s when Life in a Book was born, a year and half ago. More and more clients, those with little time to spare or limited computer know-how, were handing over their photographs, that had been clogging up their computer memory and asking Victoria to create books for them. “People are always looking for a memorable, thoughtful gift and we are often asked to produce books for special occasions - 40th Birthdays, Anniversaries, etc.You can’t underestimate the power of memory keeping. I’ve had many clients reduced to tears looking through a beautiful bound book of their life or special moments. These are books that can be kept for ever and passed on through the generations.” This is illustrated by the story of a client who asked Victoria to put together a book for her 12-year old daughter who had sadly lost both sets of grandparents and was upset to find her memories of them fading.Victoria worked closely together with her to collect old photographs and anecdotes of all four grandparents, and on Christmas Eve the daughter was presented with a book called ‘Francesca’s Memories’, giving her something tangible and enjoyable to look at for years to come. If you are looking to do something with your collection of photographs and memories this month or thinking of a special gift, Victoria is offering Families readers 10% off all books in March. For more information you can email victoria@lifeinabook.co.uk or call 01628 667 116. www.lifeinabook.co.uk
BIOLOGY TUITION GCSE and AS/A2-Level. Fully qualified secondary school teacher with more than six years experience working in a Bucks Grammar School.
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Mobile: 07969 604696 E-mail: phupinder@hotmail.com
Our services include: 11+ Preparation 1 to 1 Tutoring Individualised Courses KS1,KS2 and KS3 Tutoring Checking Homework and Correcting Online Tutoring Beginners Arabic Tutoring Learning English as a Foreign Language Common Entrance Exam Preparation Website: www.etontutors.com Number: Email: info@etontutors.com
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FRENCH TUITION Native speaker / experienced French tutor. Tuitions for all ages / levels. Also coaching for French GCSE & A-Level.
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Professional Tuition: Provided by a qualified and dedicated tutor. Choose from: 11 plus Verbal/ Non-Verbal Reasoning, Common Entrance Exam, GCSE, Sciences and much more. Tel: 01628 637008 or 07887 936484
Pregnancy Yoga & Mummy and Baby Yoga Relax, boost energy, ease aches & pains, prepare for birth, connect with your baby, rebuild core strength safely
11+ TUITION (Female)
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Verbal & Non-Verbal Reasoning, Maths, English 1 to 1 Tuition Free 30min Assessment Paper & Interactive Practice Enhanced CRB Checked Member of MENSA (High IQ Society) 10% Discount for 10+ Lessons Covering: South Bucks, East Berks TEL: 01753 571225/07958 717582 elevenplus999@btinternet.com
Do you want to shape up for the summer but hate the Gym?
Why not try Zumba Mix? This is a fusion of Latin American and modern music set to easy but high energy moves. MONDAY & WEDNESDAY MORNINGS; TUESDAY & FRIDAY EVENINGS at the High Street Methodist Church in Maidenhead (opposite the White Horse Pub) £5 PER SESSION OR £25 FOR SIX
Contact Niki Kitt Fitness on 07775653051 or niki_kitt@yahoo.co.uk
Ex TONI&GUY Stylist Home visits for busy mums Cut & Finish, Blowdry and Colour
Call Julie: 07809 636 659
Mary Poppins Entertainments NOW WITH AMAZING ANIMAL PUPPETS
As seen on Paul O‘Grady Show.
For ages 3-103 Tel: 01753 663374 or 0781 1084 325 www.jeanpurdy.co.uK
Candle-making parties for children and grown-ups! www.candlebynight.co.uk
Tel: 07771 851435
Michelle Price beauty Hair by Andrew
YOGA & JEWELLERY MAKING PARTIES For Parents, Children, Families or Adults
Treat yourself or make your child’s day extra special. Qualified Teacher. Book your party now! Call Jane on 01753 530483 or 07536 001149
Telephone: 01628 627 586
BOOK NOW for advertising in our May/June issue Due out 1st May editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
MARCH/APRIL 2012
Professional and affordable treatments available, please visit www.michellepricebeauty.co.uk for prices or call 07596 830871 for any information. 5 Eton Wick Road, Windsor, Berkshire, Sl46LT
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