Features: Clubs & classes and Spotlight on Hungerford
This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources.
IN THIS ISSUE:
If your school or family-friendly venue would like to receive FREE copies of Families Thames Valley West magazine, contact us at editor@familiestvw.co.uk
Where is Families Thames Valley West?
Editor’s Welcome
Welcome to our last issue of 2024! It’s ‘the most wonderful time of the year’ again, and this issue reflects the excitement and busyness of this period, with a What’s On special, including sections on Christmas theatre, markets and where to see Father Christmas, along with gift ideas and a toy giveaway.
Life continues beyond Christmas, of course, and we also have some brilliant articles about body boundaries and the link between fussy eating and neurodiversity. We shine the spotlight on Wokingham this time; it has loads going on for families.
In our education section we go to Crosfields School to chat to students about the school’s first GCSE results.
I hope you have a lovely festive season!
Lesley
We distribute 20,000 copies every issue!
Competition winner
Congratulations to Anna Clark, who won copies of the ‘A Little Monster’ books in our September/October 2024 issue.
We challenge our students to imagine a better world. We then support them to develop the character, confidence and determination to be changemakers.
Registration Deadline for 2025 Entry Friday 15th November
Find out more at www.leightonpark.com/how-to-apply/ ISA Senior School of the Year 2023-24
Presenting Manga Classics
Manga, a style of Japanese comic books, has seen a huge growth in popularity with teen and pre-teen audiences in the West in the last decade and these new titles retell stories created by three giants of British literature for ages 8-12.
Manga Classics: The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes
Join the world’s most famous detective, the brilliant Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr Watson, as they unravel five seemingly impossible mysteries using Holmes’s legendary powers of deduction. Discover the true identity of the masked man, learn the secrets of the RedHeaded League, and join the adventure of the speckled band.
These self-contained adventures, taken from a collection of short stories, make the perfect introduction to the inhabitants of 221B Baker Street and a great stepping stone to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s full-length Sherlock Holmes novels.
Manga Classics: Alice in Wonderland
Follow Alice down the rabbit-hole and explore the magical world of Wonderland in glorious colour, with Manga illustrations. If, like Alice, you don’t like books with no pictures or conversations, this comic version is perfect for you.
Meet the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter and the Queen of Hearts in person as you travel through this classic tale. With visually stunning illustrations, you’ll go with Alice as she meanders through Wonderland, meeting all your favourite characters from the frightened mouse to the blue caterpillar and from the March Hare to the Cheshire Cat.
Manga Classics: Romeo and Juliet
William Shakespeare’s tragic play about a pair of star-crossed lovers from two warring families is perhaps the greatest love story ever told. Manga Classics retells the tale with bold illustrations, making it easy to follow yet still introducing some of Shakespeare’s timeless poetry.
Follow the ups and downs of the young lovers as they meet, fall in love, then have to deal with the consequence of their parents’ enmity.
GIVEAWAY: We have a set of these three books to give away. If you would like to enter, please e-mail editor@familiestvw.co.uk. The closing date is 30 November 2024 and a winner will be chosen at random and notified after this date.
THE GREAT CHRISTMAS TOY GIVEAWAY
Bed-sharing not psychologically harmful
Parental bed-sharing is unlikely to impact children’s psychological development, new research has found.
The study from the University of Essex looked at nearly seventeen thousand British babies and tracked them for eleven years. It found kids who shared beds were happy and healthy with no association between bed-sharing at 9 months and childhood emotional or behavioural problems.
Some experts previously thought bed-sharing negatively affected children’s development whilst others held the view that it helps as parents and children are nearby for feeding and if they wake in the night.
Dr Bilgin said: ‘Parents can rest assured that as long as it’s practised safely, bed-sharing is unlikely to have any negative impact on children’s emotional and behavioural development.’
More info: www.essex.ac.uk/news
Sharing behaviour may relate to counting skills
Young children who are good with numbers are more likely to share valued items with friends.
Researchers from universities across the US conducted the groundbreaking research and concluded in a study published in the Child Development Journal that counting skills were the single biggest predictor of ‘fair sharing behaviour’ among children ages 3 to 5.
The findings suggest one of the reasons some youngsters struggle to share is because their counting skills are still developing.
Study author Dr Nadia Chernyak said: ‘This is the first research to investigate whether symbolic counting exerts a causal impact on sharing behaviour.’
‘We reasoned that children who do not share fairly would benefit from the modelling of proper counting behaviours thereby providing them with a behavioural tool that would facilitate fair sharing.’
More info: www.neurosciencenews.com
Children reading fewer books
Children in the UK and Ireland are reading fewer books than they did last year, according to a new report by the learning and assessment provider Renaissance, as post-Covid absences from school and a lack of dedicated reading time contribute to lower reading abilities.
The 2024 What Kids Are Reading Report surveyed more than 1.2 million school pupils across the UK and Ireland, revealing a 4.4% decrease in the number of books read by pupils.
This is the first year since the research began in 2008, apart from the first year of the pandemic, that there has been a decline in the number of books read.
The biggest gains in reading ability occurred when more than thirty minutes of a student’s school day was devoted to ‘engaged reading time.’
More info: www.uk.renaissance.com
Alarming number of children using AI for their homework
A quarter of pupils use ChatGPT and other AI tools to help with their schooling according to recent research from the online safety group, Internet Matters.
The research was based on a survey of two thousand parents of children ages 4-17 and one thousand children ages 9-17.
The study showed that of those using AI more than half of pupils are using the tools to complete teacher assignments or homework. However, the research also found that sixty percent of schools have not spoken to pupils about the appropriate use of AI.
Experts say neither educators nor the government has kept up with the exponential increase in the use of AI technology among pupils. They are calling for new guidance so that pupils are operating on a ‘level playing field.’
More info: www.internetmatters.org
Crosfields pupils celebrate GCSE success
Crosfields School in Reading saw its first cohort of GCSE pupils get their results on 22nd August 2024, and I was lucky enough to meet three of the pupils there on results day. There was a buzz of excitement and a festive atmosphere in the school hall when I arrived: lots of pupils and their families were chatting to staff, reflecting on their time at Crosfields, their successes and the future.
I first spoke to Tommie, who was thrilled with his results. He was off to the sixth form at Reading School and had been at Crosfields since Year 7.
What’s really special about Crosfields?
The teachers are amazing; they’re really really supportive and helpful. I also really enjoyed the trips. I’ve been to Biarritz, Morocco and Germany, and they’re just amazing trips.
And is there a really special moment that you’ve had when you’ve been at school?
Probably one of the most special moments was Biarritz. It was surfing and yoga, so just chilling with friends and just enjoying nature and the scenery in France.
How large are the classes at Crosfields?
The classes are about 10-15 people. Twenty at a stretch, but I don’t think I’ve ever had a class of 20 before. You get more attention from the teachers, more help.
What’s your experience of Crosfields (to Tommie’s mum)?
Tommie’s been supported to be able to be himself here, and I think that’s been really positive. Alongside that the teaching has been excellent. And they encouraged him to do extracurricular activites as well, so it’s well rounded.
Harry was the School Captain at Crosfield from 2023-2024, and I was able to catch up with him. He was finishing thirteen years at Crosfields.
What does being the School Captain entail?
You work under the Head and with the Deputy Head, and you help not only improve the student welfare; you help improve the life at the school. You try to integrate with the pupils, merging the gap between Juniors and Seniors, because you want the school to feel like a whole community, and it’s being a role model, it’s being a mentor, and most of all it’s being like a guiding light for pupils to look up to.
Do you feel sad about leaving?
I am quite sad, because I’ve never been to a new school. I’m really going to miss this, because it’s been amazing.
Where is your new school?
It’s called Bradfield College. I’m going to board there. It’s going to be quite a different landscape from Crosfields.
What do you particularly like about Crosfields?
I just like how there’s quite a few age groups, and it feels like you’re one big family, because this has essentially been a second home for me. I think the teachers, the general ambiance and just the feel of the school cultivate a place where people can really grow up.
What’s your experience been of Crosfields (to Harry’s dad)?
I think it’s been really supportive. This is the first year through the GCSEs, so it was into the unknown, but I think they’ve been really good about putting real quality staff in place, managing the individual as well as the whole class as well.
Ameya was also saying goodbye to Crosfields, having started in the Nursery at the age of three.
What are you planning to do now that you’ve finished?
I’m going to Kendrick to study maths, further maths, physics and economics.
How does it feel to finish at Crosfields?
Surreal! I can’t imagine not coming to this school in September again. It’s really strange; I’m really going to have to adapt.
Have you had any really great moments when you when you’ve been here?
100%! The trips are amazing, but I’ve had other silly fun memories, like in Year 6 on the last day that everyone was together before the first large section of people went off, we played a huge game of tag, and I just remember that really vividly for some reason. And we used to have dip in the field, and we used to roll down it when we were little!
Is there anything really special about this school for you?
It’s kind of a second home, because I’ve been here all my life. The teachers are lovely and supported me through academic, through mental health struggles, through thick and thin. I’m very accident-prone, so everyone knows I’m always on crutches or falling over, and everyone is just so supportive and lovely.
For more information about Crosfields, visit www.crosfields.com or call 0118 987 1810. Check out www.crosfields.com/gcses to find out more about Crosfields’ GCSE results.
Grandparents and childcare
By Claire Burgess
Childcare is a really emotive issue but one which all parents with young children need to consider at some point, whether just to free them up to attend an appointment or on a more regular, ongoing basis while they work.
It’s natural to consider whether it would be appropriate to ask your child’s grandparents to help you. In fact, they might offer to help or you may find you need to ask them. Either way, there are a few things to take into consideration. Here are some practicalities to think about.
Flexibility and commitment
Are the grandparents (also read friend/other family members) going to have the flexibility for the commitment that you need? Grandparents quite rightly have their own lives and possibly jobs. Are they going to be available on the days and at the times you want them to be?
Finances
These need to be discussed in advance. How will things like outings, travel and eating out be funded, for example. Do you need to agree a budget limit, per day perhaps? Are grandparents expecting to be paid something to care for the children and if so, how much? All of these things need to be established from the outset.
Where are they going to care for the children? If the idea is that it will be in their own home, is this going to work for your child? Is their home safe? Do they have stair gates, pets, valuable ornaments? Will the children have some of their toys there? Do they have the right equipment and if not, will you need to buy duplicates eg cot, changing mat, pram to keep there? With all of this in mind, it is often easier to have the childcare at your own house. Just don’t be upset if things are moved round and tidied up!
Heating/electricity/food
Are you ready for the heating to be on and electricity to be used all day when you are out? Often older people (and actually anyone who is in the house all day!) feel the cold more and so might need to have the heating on to keep warm. Grandparents will also need to eat during the day, so will you provide a meal for them? These are all extra costs that need to be factored in.
Parenting
Your parenting styles may differ slightly but let yours have their say and don’t forget they’ve done it before! Have a discussion about your behaviour boundaries, how you like certain things to be done, such as toilet training and weaning, along with which foods you are happy for the children to have. This can often be a very delicate conversation but things will be smoother if you reach agreement from the outset.
Safety/First Aid
Are the grandparents ‘up to speed’ on how to care for children safely? Offer to sign them up for a basic First Aid for Children course before they start to care for them and always make sure they have a full list of emergency contact numbers.
Capability
Consider realistically how much care grandparents are going to be able to provide. We all know how tiring it can be to care for children all day and particularly if you are back to work full time, is this going to work? Also look at whether grandparents have the mobility they will need to run around after your child.
Illness
What will you do when your child is too poorly to go to nursery? Consider if it is going to be okay for grandparents to be exposed to coughs, colds and illnesses.
Relationships
Finally, consider your children’s and your own relationship with your parents. Are you going to be able to keep the childcare arrangement as a separate thing from your and your children’s family relationship with them? If not, it is worth considering if this is going to be the right childcare solution for you.
Don’t forget to always show appreciation for your parents/ parents in law who are helping out - this is a pretty huge undertaking and one which will help you out massively!
Claire Burgess is a director and family consultant at Bespoke Family (www.bespokefamily.co.uk), which offers tailored support from newborns to teens.
Teaching your child safe body boundaries
By Rachel Coler Mulholland
One of the biggest challenges parents face is how to both define and communicate body boundaries to their young children.
Naturally we want our children to be in the safest of hands, always. We interview and shortlist the individuals we trust enough to provide primary care when we are not available.
The next step is a boundary discussion with our children: ‘if a person is caring for you, they will care for you appropriately, help you wipe if necessary, take care to make sure you are comfortable and report any injuries or issues to me immediately’.
We have all heard horror stories of children being mistreated by carers. However, asking our children to establish or maintain their own boundaries when they are quite young (under age 6) is both unreasonable and potentially harmful.
If a child fell and injured their penis in the playground but have been told that ‘no one but mummy can check their privates,’ they may fail to tell their primary carer and delay necessary treatment. For children of this age, their bodies are neutral: to them, their penis is not much different from their thumb. If they hurt their thumb, they would tell a grown-up and within limits, it should be the same for their private parts.
The protection that parents can offer for young children comes from careful due diligence when choosing care providers and from normalising discussions about bodies and the ways they are treated daily.
Making conversation about their body should be as normal as reporting what they had for lunch. ‘Did you have a good day at daycare? Great! What was for snack? That’s wonderful! Did you get to use the big kid potties today or did you stay in the classroom? Ooooh, big kid potty, well done! Did anyone have to help you?’
As children get older, they can learn more about developing and maintaining their own boundaries. Around age 6 children have a solid grasp of the concept of privacy and understand that people have different thoughts, feelings and beliefs from theirs. They can understand that their body is for them to understand and explore; not for anyone else.
Consent
With small children it can be helpful to both explain the meaning of consent and give them a statement to use. For example, ‘it’s my body and I get to pick.’
The phrase is effective because what you will allow to be done with and to your body is the definition of consent. Saying it explicitly as ‘it’s my body and I get to pick’ consistently reinforces
and helps the child internalise that consent means they get to say yes or no.
Importantly, ‘it’s my body and I get to pick’ only applies in situations that are NOT health and safety related.
A child does not get to pick if they wear a seat belt. They do not get to pick if they are clean. They do not get to pick whether they will be getting a broken arm set with a cast.
Explain to your child that sometimes a safe adult has to step in and make sure that they are being cared for in the way that helps them grow and stay healthy.
Boundary phrases
We’ve all heard that ‘no means no’ and most people would agree with that. However, verbal and non-verbal communications contain almost countless variations of inflection, word choice, body language, proximity and other factors that can change the meaning of what is intended. In some parts of the world, ‘No, yeah’ means something different from ‘Yeah, no.’ A sarcastic ‘no’ might actually mean ‘yes.’
This is why boundary phrases specifically around physical touch can be incredibly helpful for young children. For example, a simple: ‘I don’t want to play that game.’ Although it should be a given to stop and check in when someone says ‘no’ or ‘stop,’ ‘I don’t want to play that game’ puts an instantaneous, hard stop to any activity, as it clearly means: ‘I, as a person, am not willing to be touched any more.’
This type of phrase models boundary setting. It should also prompt anyone involved to touch base and find out what’s going on, encouraging communication such as ‘Okay! is there a reason you don’t want to play this game anymore? Is there something you want to change?’
Rachel is a qualified mental health practitioner who has provided mental health skills training for children. Her debut book The Birds, the Bees, and the Elephant in the RoomTalking to Your Kids About Sex & Other Sensitive Topics (Union Square & Co) is now available from www.bookshop.org
The connection between fussy eating and neurodiversity
By Ellie Malt
Short phases of fussy eating and avoiding new foods are very common in childhood. But if your child’s picky eating persists, it could be a sign of a neurodiverse brain type such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit disorder (ADHD). Understanding the connections between neurodiversity and eating problems can help you decide what to do.
Constipation. For a neurodiverse child, it’s likely gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms will have been present from birth. A very recent study₁ highlighted how children eventually diagnosed with ASD are five times more likely to have had feeding difficulties as babies. Although surveys on GI symptoms in children with ASD and ADHD are inconsistent, one study of one hundred and twenty children with ASD₂ found nearly all of them had constipation. The pain of regular constipation can lead to negative associations with eating.
The gut. Children with neurodiversity are more likely to have guts with structural differences. These can be a reduced ability to push food through (a slow gut) or a reduced ability of the intestine wall to keep food away from the rest of the body (a leaky gut). A study by microbiologists in the US₃ has suggested children with ASD and ADHD may also have differences in the types of bacteria in their gut, leading to altered immune responses.
Food intolerances. There is growing anecdotal evidence indicating that children with ASD and ADHD are more likely to have lactose and casein intolerances (both found in dairy products) and gluten intolerances. Despite a lack of large-scale studies in this area, a small survey of parents of autistic children in England showed that a fifth had tried a gluten and/or milk free diet and a majority of these parents reported significant improvements in various aspects of their child’s wellbeing.
Interoception. Kids with ASD or ADHD often have a different experience of discomfort. Altered interoception, the sense of the internal state of the body, can make it difficult to recognise hunger and fullness, leading to irregular eating patterns.
Sensory processing. Children with ASD or ADHD feel overloaded by sensory stimuli. A heightened sensory awareness to texture, taste and smell can make certain foods intolerable, leading to a more restricted diet with a preference for
predictability and comfort.
Sensitivity to sound. Sensitivity to the sound of eating (misophonia), is characterised by strong reactions to specific sounds, such as chewing or swallowing. Children with neurodivergence are more likely to experience sensitivity to these sounds, making mealtimes stressful and unpleasant. This can lead them to avoid eating certain textures or eating in social settings.
Executive function. When children become overwhelmed by their senses, the brain shuts down executive functioning, reducing self-control. With ADHD, they might be too distracted to enjoy eating or to finish their food. To sustain interest, they may be drawn to food choices that deliver instant gratification, favouring sugary snacks. Hyperactivity can also affect their ability to sit at a table and focus on eating. Studies have found impaired executive function among patients with eating disorders.
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). ARFID, a recognised eating disorder, is characterised by extremely selective eating habits without an underlying medical condition. A study of six hundred children in Sweden with ARFID₄ is one of the most recent to have highlighted the overlap between eating disorders and neurodiverse conditions including tic disorder, ADHD and ASD.
Ellie is a writer and mum of two daughters living in Surrey.
Sources
1. Feeding Behaviors in Infants and Toddlers Later Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2024
2. Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Autism: Parental Report, Clinical Evaluation, and Associated Factors, Autism Research, Volume 5, Issue 2, 2012
3. The Gut Microbiome in Autism, American Society Microbiology 2021, 4. Neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions in 600 Swedish Children with the ARFID phenotype. PMC, 2024
For more information call 07950 628750 or email:apolloyouthclub@gmail.com
Local therapy and diagnosis for neurodivergence in children and young people
Every Mind Child Psychology are a team of highly experienced and specialised clinical psychologists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists with a passion for working with neurodivergence in children and young people.
They offer:
Diagnostic assessments for autism and ADHD
Psychological therapy
Speech and language therapy
Cognitive assessment
Understanding diagnosis sessions
Parent support
Liaison and support to schools
Reports for Education, Health and Care plans
Every Mind’s core values of acceptance and equality ensure that they provide support that is strength-focussed and neuro-affirming. They view every mind as equal to the next and see value in neurodivergence, helping young people flourish and thrive and celebrate their strengths.
Located in Spencers Wood, the clinic is welcoming and friendly and packed full of toys! For more information, email admin@every-mind.co.uk or visit www.every-mind. co.uk
Choose Respect during AntiBullying Week 2024
Anti-Bullying Week runs from 11 to 15 November this year, with the theme ‘Choose Respect.’
The Anti-Bullying Alliance chose this theme following consultation with teachers and pupils who wanted a theme that empowered them to do something positive to counter the harm and hurt caused by bullying.
The week will kick off with Odd Socks Day on Tuesday 12 November, during which adults and children wear odd socks to celebrate our uniqueness.
Following the success of the campaign in 2023, when eighty percent of schools marked the week, therefore reaching over 7.5 million children and young people, Anti-Bullying Week reminds everyone that we can bring an end to bullying.
More info: www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk
Women smoking during pregnancy at record low
Smoking rates among mums-to-be are at an all-time low according to the NHS.
This year also saw the biggest annual fall in smoking during pregnancy since records began, meaning six thousand fewer pregnant women smoked when compared to the previous twelve months, protecting thousands of babies from potential harm.
The statistics show that 7.4% of women in England were known to be smokers at the end of their pregnancy in 2023-24, down from 8.8% the previous year.
Smoking whilst pregnant is extremely dangerous, as inhaling carbon monoxide, a harmful chemical present in cigarette smoke, reduces the amount of oxygen getting to the baby in the womb and increases the chance of miscarriage, stillbirth and sudden infant death.
Pregnant smokers are being urged to access dedicated NHS support to help them quit.
More info: www.england.nhs.uk/news
• Diagnostic assessments for autism and/or ADHD
• Recognised by CAMHS local authorities, school
Neuro-affirming
Strengths focussed
Inclusive
Accepting
Psychological therapy • Speech and language therapy • Understanding diagnosis sessions
Reports for EHCPs
Your Christmas stocking filler gift guide
By Sarah Lindsley
Yes, it’s that time of year again! Along with decking the halls, meal planning and panto ticket booking while the children are beside themselves with excitement, let’s not forget the presents. We are here to help! Our Christmas stocking filler gift guide offers you inspiration in the lead up to the festive season. With each gift coming in under £15 there may even be some of the Christmas budget left over to treat yourself!
H&M White Bunny
Musical Soft Toy
£12.99
From birth
This gorgeously soft and sweet bunny toy doesn’t just look cute in your baby’s nurserypull the small cord and it plays Brahms’ Lullaby. With this lovely, relaxing classical musical experience for your baby, you might even find yourself nodding off too! The bunny also has a prettily embroidered face and a very handy hook and loop-fastening hanger at the top so it can be easily attached to your baby’s cot or changing table.
Ages
Kinetic Sand Deluxe Beach Castle Play Set
£11.99
Bring the beach to your kitchen with this brilliant magically moving play sand set. Made with larger grains of natural sand, it moulds easily and never dries out. Kinetic sand is a unique sensory experience that encourages hours of independent play. Unfold the box to discover a sandy play area complete with cutting, digging and raking tools so your child can make some seriously super sandcastles. The sand sticks to itself and comes with a tray for storage so even cleaning up is easy.
From birth
A perfect first book for your baby and suitable from birth with its soft, padded pages. With simple black-and-white illustrations and a touch-and-feel experience on every page, this beautiful book is designed to capture babies’ attention and even claims to help develop their eyesight. Providing fun, multi-sensory stimulation for babies and parents to enjoy together, this is a lovely first bonding experience for you and your newborn.
Ages
Put your feet up while your toddler serves you tea and toast! This cute and compact kettle and toaster set has realistic functions and sounds that make kitchen playtime extra fun. Your little one will squeal with laughter as the toaster pops up the toast (two pieces of toy toast is included) and the light-up kettle whistles to the ‘boil’ before clicking off. Sturdy and well-made, this set will withstand multiple bangs and crashes from your mini chef.
This super cute sorting puzzle is made from FSC-certified wood and comes in a gorgeous palette of colours. The six colourful shapes fit into the corresponding slots on the wooden base, introducing your little one to both shape and colour concepts at the same time. The pieces are beautifully smooth and the perfect size for little hands. Pretty patterns make the set even more eye-catching. A great way to develop handeye coordination whilst also having fun!
Ages 8+
Hy-Pro Size 2 Skills Trainer Football
£11.99
Get World Cup-ready with this brilliant skills trainer football from Hy-Pro. Perfect for any young football enthusiast who is keen to practise their ball control and core skills. The ergonomic handle is easy to hold and the handheld cord linking the PVC football can be adjusted depending on both the age and the skills being practised, whether heading, passing or shooting. No need for a large space or multiple players. Your football fan can now play football anytime, anywhere!
John Lewis Wooden Shape Puzzle £10
John Lewis Toaster & Kettle Play Set £12.50
Ladybird Baby Touch: My First Book: a black-and-white cloth book £10.99
Ages 4+
Orchard Toys Games £9.75/£12/£6
Ages 2-6
Doggy Doggy Woof Woof! is an energetic, hilarious new matching and memory game where players pair doggy heads and bodies. There are two fun ways to play - for younger and older children. Shout ‘Doggy Doggy Woof Woof,’ stand up, pretend to wag your tail and shout ‘Waggy Waggy Woof Woof!’ In Peter Rabbit™ Don’t Wake Mr. McGregor, join Peter Rabbit, Benjamin Bunny, Flopsy and Mopsy and race to collect the most fruit and vegetables! But don’t wake Mr. McGregor or you’ll have to return to the start! In a festive, travel-sized Elf Lotto, collect all the cheeky elves and be the first to fill your board with matching characters.
Ages 3-6
Gamewright Sleeping Queens card game £12.99
Campbell Busy Books Busy Park Board Book £6.99
Ages 2-5
Part of the Busy Book series, Busy Park is guaranteed to be a favourite at bedtime over and over again. There’s a sweet rhyming story and colourful and engaging illustration, but it’s the interactive nature of the book with its push, pull and slide tabs that really make it stand out. You and your tot can enjoy your day out at Busy Park together: visit the playground, make the animals run and disappear and even get the sunshine to come out. Busy Park has also been endorsed and recommended by Dr Amanda Gummer’s Good Toy Guide (www.goodplayguide.com).
Crayola 24 Super Tips Washable Markers £8
Time to make your mark! Crayola’s 24 Super Tip markers are the perfect pens to get creative with, whether making big brush strokes in a favourite colouring book or creating detailed, fine lines for drawings and art projects. A win for parents too as the ink easily washes off skin and clothing, so you can let your budding artist have free rein. Good quality pens with a great range of colours.
Wakey wakey! The Pancake Queen, the Ladybug Queen and some of their closest friends have fallen under a sleeping spell and it’s your job to wake them up. Sleeping Queens was invented by 6-year-old Miranda Evarts, who thought up the game one night when she couldn’t get to sleep. With beautifully illustrated cards, players are quickly immersed in a fantastical world that requires strategy, decisionmaking, arithmetic and a little bit of luck. A great way to develop memory and maths skills whilst also having fun!
Opening your child up to imaginative play and fantastic for practising fine motor skills, LEGO® offers so many options. This City Police Car set, featuring a cool police patrol car and accompanying police officer figure complete with torch and hat, will keep your child busy for hours as they zoom around the living room chasing the baddies. You can even use the LEGO® Building Instructions app to access the interactive building guide with amazing zoom and rotate viewing tools. Your kids will become master builders in no time.
Usborne A Sticker Dolly Story Christmas Mystery £5.99
It’s Christmas Eve and the Christmas Dolls get a call from Mission Control: all the presents have been stolen from Santa’s workshop and one of the elves is missing! It’s now up to the Christmas Dolls – Star, Robin and Clara – to save Christmas. A Christmas special in the new Sticker Dolly fiction series, the book comes with a sheet of colourful stickers to dress the dolls and keep the daring detective in our child busy over the holidays.
Role model, not moderator
By Hannah Brencher
When I decided to unplug from technology for one thousand hours over the course of a year, I saw it as a challenge to reclaim my time and relieve the constant barrage of notifications that had become all too frequent. What I didn’t anticipate was how profoundly a digital detox would transform my approach to motherhood.
When I started this experiment, my daughter was just over a year old and already reaching for my phone. Who could blame her? My husband and I were constantly checking our devices in front of her. This made me question the example we were setting her; what message was she receiving and was it a positive one?
We’ve all been out socially with people constantly checking their phones, making us feel unseen and unimportant. It struck me that my little girl might feel the same way if I seemingly chose my handset over her.
With so much focus on managing our children’s screen time, I realised it was important to turn that lens on myself and examine my habits. I was too plugged in, checking my phone at all hours, even without any urgent need and using it as a means to cope with daily stress.
Something needed to change. I knew I had to start parenting myself better and ask tougher questions: Was this how I wanted to spend my days? Was this constant connectivity energising or draining me? Could I set healthier boundaries for my own screen use and become a role model for technology for my daughter, not just a moderator?
Almost immediately, I was struck by how much calmer I felt when the phone was out of sight or completely off and I could
get down on the floor and connect with my daughter at her level.
I then started designating ‘zones’ where phones were prohibited: at the dining table, during weekend activities, at bedtime and in the early mornings when we were getting ready for the day. By taking it one unplugged hour at a time, I realised I didn’t have to give up technology entirely or eliminate social media to find balance.
I began to discover pockets in my day where I could practise being fully present in all my roles; mother, wife, CEO, friend, daughter. I noticed a lot of the pressure I’d placed on myself started to ease.
Parenthood can be overwhelming and for me, certain habits like scrolling on my phone after a long day had been forms of selfcare, ‘checking in’ with myself. In reality, I was checking out.
Disconnecting from technology has helped me find better ways to recharge my batteries; reading a good book, going for a walk, journaling or even tidying a space. Focusing my time on tasks that aren’t tech-focused significantly boosts my energy and allows me to be present for my family in the best way I can.
I know my daughter will grow up in a world teeming with technology. As her first teacher, it’s my responsibility to model healthy behaviours and demonstrate the importance of being truly present, even in our digitally connected world. So, I put my phone away and made a conscious effort to show up fully for her.
Hannah Brencher is a writer, TED Talk speaker, mental health advocate and author. Her new book, The Unplugged Hours is available now from www.bookshop.
Pockets of presence
My daughter and I began to find daily ‘pockets of presence’ when we were simply together. We built castles out of Lego, sipped imaginary tea from wooden cups, traced letters and made art.
These moments meant the world to her. They conveyed that there was nowhere I’d rather be right then. Even fifteen minutes spent on a puzzle was enough for us to feel truly connected. And not once did I walk away without feeling grateful for the choice to connect with her more deeply.
Clubs & Classes Directory
Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: editor@familiestvw.co.uk
DEVELOPMENTAL CLASSES
BilinguaSing
French, Spanish and Italian classes from age 0-11. Fun sensory music classes with the added bonus of a second language! Trial slots available, as well as sibling discounts. Classes in Wokingham, Bracknell, Charvil, Woodley and other Berkshire locations Monday-Friday. Contact Cari Weston at cari@bilinguasing. com or call 07729261018 for more information.
Master Builders Club Brick Building Workshops for Children
Master Builders Club is a LEGO® & DUPLO® lovers paradise! Our weekend and holiday workshops, after school clubs, birthday parties and nursery/primary school events are designed to provide children with an exciting and captivating experience. We provide 1000’s of LEGO® or DUPLO® bricks in a calm and supportive environment along with the imaginative stimulus to transform a room into a world of creativity. If you are passionate about providing engaging and stimulating play opportunities that nurture your child’s mind, then Master Builders Club is for you! To book your brick building fan a place or to find out more about our events, visit the webite.
St Joseph’s Swim School
Fun and engaging swimming lessons, small class sizes in private learning pool following Swim England programme for 4+. FREE onsite parking. Register your interest now! Contact swimschool@sjcr.org.uk, or visit www.sjcr.org.uk/swimschool
DRAMA AND DANCE
Alison-Jayne School of Dance
The Alison-Jayne School of Dance is a small dance school offering ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern lessons from age 3 to 18 years at the Christ Church Centre, Henley and Sonning Common School. FREE Introductory lesson. Contact 0118 979 0683/07968 592812, email ajdance.uk@gmail.com, visit www.alison-jaynedance
Progress Youth Theatre
Workshops for ages 7-18 involving theatre games, improvisation and skills development, leading to a stage production every year. We are an Arts Award Supporter and also offer LAMDA courses. Classes held at Progress Theatre, Reading.
in recreational, womens, mens and aerobic gymnastics as well as running holiday activities and gym parties. bulmershegc.co.uk
Emmer Green Gymnastics Club
Highdown Sport and Leisure Club, RG4 8LR
A small, friendly, recreational gymnastic club specialising in women’s artistic gymnastics, general gymnastics and freestyle gymnastics. emmergreengymnastics.co.uk
Esprit Kids
4 King Street Lane, Wokingham, RG41 5AS
A place for children to learn the life skills gymnastics teaches whilst having fun. esprit-kids.co.uk
Gymfinity Kids Bracknell
65 Princess Square, Bracknell, RG12 1LS
Offering a wide variety of fun structured children’s activity classes. gymfinitykids.com/club/bracknell
KD Gymnastics
Newbury, RG14 5SH
KD Gymnastics provides a welcoming, safe, positive and child-friendly environment to explore gymnastics under the guidance of appropriately qualified coaches. kdgymnastics.co.uk
Kennylands Gymnastics
Bird Wood Court, Sonning Common, RG4 9RF Kennylands Gymnastics offer classes for all ages and abilities, from babies to adults. kennylandsgymnastics.co.uk
www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
SWIMMING
GR Swimming Schools
Bronze Award Swim England Swim School of the Year 2023! Uniquely structured, safe, FUN, children’s swimming lessons from 3 years old. Lessons include continual assessment and lane progression. Maximum of 6 children per class. Aquaphobia lessons, Adults, Beginners, Improvers and Advanced. Shy, nervous and anxious children welcome.
Contact anton@swimlessons.co.uk or visit swimlessons.co.uk
Puddle Ducks
Our highly trained and fully qualified teachers offer baby and toddler swimming lessons that will teach your child to love the water and swim beautifully. FREE TRIAL available. Various locations/times. Warm pools. Sibling discounts.
Contact northhampshireandreading@ puddleducks.com or call 0118 229 3232.
Email us to book a FREE taster session. youthgroup@progresstheatre.co.uk progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre
Gymnastics is a very popular activity, with brilliant new and old clubs locally. If your child is interested in giving it a go, you might like to try one of these local clubs.
Apollo Gymnastics
The Heights Primary School, Caversham, Reading, RG4 7LB
Silchester Road, Southcote, RG30 3EJ
Discover the joy of movement and the thrill of achievement with dynamic gymnastics programmes for all ages. apollogymnastics.co.uk
Bracknell Gymnastics Club
Bracknell Leisure Centre, RG12 9SE
Quality coaching in gymnastics, TeamGym, freestyle gymnastics and cheerleading from qualified and experienced staff. bracknellgymnasticsclub.co.uk
Bulmershe Gymnastics Club
Woodley, Reading, RG5 3EL
The club provides a wide range of training
Pinewood Gymnastics Club
Wokingham, RG40 3AQ
This club boasts 2 fully-equipped gymnastic halls, All levels welcome. pinewoodgymnastics.co.uk
RAW Kids Gymnastics Woodley
CrossFit Reading, RG5 4SW
Fun gymnastics classes for children from crawling to 7 years. rawkidsgymnastics.co.uk/Woodley
Sparkles Gymnastics
Bracknell, RG12 1AD
Sparkles run classes for recreation level children up to elite squad level gymnasts in a safe, efficient and happy training environment. sparklesgymnastics.co.uk
Springbox Gymnastics Henley
Henley College, Henley, RG9 1TR
Dedicated to training all levels of ability from pre-school to teens. springboxgymclub.co.uk
Vision Gymnastics
Henley-on-Thames, RG9 3BW
Vision Gymnastics offers gymnastics classes for all abilities and genders aged starting from 18 months to 16 years old. visiongymnastics.co.uk
GYMNASTICS CLUBS
Spotlight on Wokingham
Wokingham is a well-connected market town with lots going on for all ages. We have collected together some family-friendly businesses in Wokingham to get you started on exploring it!
Acorn Community Centre-Café, Fernlea Drive, RG41 3DR
Café, sensory garden and plants for sale. facebook.com/acorncommunitycentre
BilinguaSing Wokingham & Bracknell, various venues
Spanish, Italian and French classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. bilinguasing.com/find-a-class/ wokingham-reading-twyford
Brambles Children’s Centre, Budges Gardens, RG40 1PX
A range of services and activities for children under 5.
E-mail: brambleschildrenscentre@ wokingham.gov.uk
California Country Park, Nine Mile Ride, Finchampstead, RG40 4HU
Great open space for family and children of all ages, with a play area, paddling pool, café and lakeside walks. wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/californiacountry-park
Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road, RG40 3AW
Includes Brickies Club, Little Teddy’s Loft and Pottery Pals. holmegrangecraftvillage.co.uk
Monkey Mates, Old Forest Road, Emmbrook, RG41 1JA
Children’s indoor and outdoor activity barn monkeymates.co.uk
Oakwood Climbing Centre, Waterloo Road, RG40 3DA
Bouldering and climbing centre. oakwoodclimbingcentre.com
Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road, RG40 3AQ
Indoor and outdoor activities, including a great children’s play area and a miniature railway. woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/ woods/pinewood-leisure-centre
Pinewood Miniature Railway, Pinewood Leisure Centre, Old Wokingham Road, RG40 3AQ
The railway runs for nearly half a mile through a woodland setting. pinewoodrailway.co.uk
Pirates Landing, Elms Walk, RG40 2FE Soft play area. pirateslanding.co.uk/pirates-landingwokingham
Stagecoach Wokingham, various venues
Bringing out the best in every child through the wonderful world of singing, dancing and acting. stagecoach.co.uk/Wokingham
Dinton Pastures Country Park
This has been a popular haunt for my children and me for many years, mainly because the playground is fantastic. It’s large and attractively fashioned from wood, using the lumps and bumps in the ground itself as part of its design. The far end of the playground dips down to one of the lakes.
A lakeside walk is easily manageable for children or buggies, and these paths form the Parkrun course that takes place at Dinton Pastures every Saturday morning. There is also mini golf and a family-friendly café on site.
Closer to the Woodley side of the park is Dinton Activity Centre, which was listed in our climbing directory recently. They offer holiday activities for children and have an indoor climbing wall which my children have enjoyed at weekend sessions, and my son and I spent a peaceful half-hour paddleboarding on the lake in the summer.
Entry to the park is FREE, but car parking is charged. www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/dinton-pastures-country-park
The Beehive Club, various venues
Wrap-around school care and holiday clubs. beehiveclub.co.uk
Wokingham Family Golf, Finchampstead Road, RG40 3HG
Six ways to play golf that will bring fun and smiles to the whole family. wokinghamfamilygolf.co.uk
Wokingham Leisure Centre, Wellington Road, RG40 2AF
Swimming, inflatable obstacle course and parties available. placesleisure.org/centres/wokinghamleisure-centre
Wokingham Superbowl, Wellington Road, RG40 2NJ
Bowling, laser quest and arcade fun. wokinghamsuperbowl.com
Wokingham Youth Theatre, Twyford Road, RG40 5TU
Equipping young people from the age of 8 to 18 with theatre skills in a structured and highly motivated environment. wokinghamtheatre.org.uk/youth-theatre
Train rides at Pinewood Miniature Railway in 2025
This volunteer-run railway provides a great family activity once a month.
Train rides will continue to run on the third Sunday of the month in 2025, from March to November. The public running times from March to October are 1.30-4pm and the times are changed in November to 11am-3pm. www.pinewoodrailway.co.uk
Wokingham Libraries
Wokingham has a great network of libraries, with the central branch in Wokingham and smaller libraries located throughout Wokingham Borough Council. Rhymetime, crafts and book clubs are organised with younger readers in mind.
Wokingham Library
The Carnival Hub, Wellington Road, RG40 2AF 0118 978 1368
Other branches with telephone numbers include:
Arborfield Library 07745545757
Finchampstead Library 0118 908 8176
Lower Earley Library 0118 931 2150
Shinfield Micro Library 0118 931 2150
CHILD’S REVIEW
Spencers Wood Library 0118 988 4771
Twyford Library 0118 934 0800
Winnersh Library 0118 979 7519
Woodley Library 0118 969 0304
California Country Park Review
Hi, I’m James and I’m 11 years old.
Fun at Beehive Out-of-School Clubs!
Term-time wrap around school care from the Beehive Clubs is the perfect way to continue your child’s education through play.
They offer a broad range of indoor and outdoor activities where fun is always on the timetable. Activities include:
• Toys, games, arts & crafts, gaming, indoor and outdoor sports AND an end-of-term party!
• Breakfast Club: Mon-Fri, 7:30-9am, £7.50 per session
• After-School Club: Mon-Fri, 3-6pm, £15 per session
All staff are DBS checked, have attended Playwork training, a Safeguarding course and ongoing training and development.
Available to children during term-time at: Nine Mile Rid Primary School, Crown Wood Primary School, Oaklands Infant and Junior School, Meadow Vale Primary School, Hatch Ride Primary School, Wooden Hill, Primary & Nursery School and Winkfield St Mary’s CE Primary School.
I visited California Country Park before I started secondary school over the summer holidays. I went with my school friend and his younger sister (and our mums).
We swam in the paddling pool, and we also ran around and did fun activities, like climbing on a wooden climbing wall and sliding down a twisty slide. We also went to the café, and I had a chocolate brownie and apple juice. It was delicious!
The best part of our visit was swimming in the pool because it was a hot day. In total, this was a fun family activity. I would recommend California Country Park to people who enjoy the outdoors – especially children who enjoy climbing and swimming.
Nine Mile Ride, Finchampstead, RG40 4HU www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/california-country-park
Where to see Father Christmas
He’s making a list and checking it twice…! Yes, Father Christmas is going to be in the area, and we’ve found lots of local places where you can find him.
Reading Winter Wonderland 9 November-5 January Santa’s grotto. readingwinterwonderland.co.uk
Wokingham Winter Carnival 24 November Santa’s grotto. wintercarnival.co.uk
Henley Christmas Festival 29 November, from 4:30pm Santa’s grotto at King’s Arm Barn. henleytowncouncil.gov.uk/event/ christmas-festival-2024
Santa’s Christmas Cracker, Kenton Theatre, Henley 30 November, 11am / 2pm Musical show where every child gets a present from Santa. thekenton.org.uk
The Cunning Man, Burghfield 8 and 15 December, from 9am Breakfast with Santa. whatsonreading.com
De Vere Wokefield Estate, Mortimer 15 December
Santa afternoon teas. devere.co.uk/wokefield-estate
Family Christmas Theatre
One of the most exciting traditions at this time of year is a visit to the theatre for a pantomime or other special seasonal show. We have a great selection in this area – so you could watch them all!!
Santa’s Christmas Cracker, Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury 20 December, 2pm Interactive family show and each child gets to meet Father Christmas and receive a specially wrapped present from Father Christmas.
Hobbs of Henley 21–23 December
Santa cruises along the River Thames. hobbsofhenley.com/river-tripsevents
Cantley House Hotel, Wokingham 21, 23 and 24 December
Santa afternoon tea. cantleyhotel.co.uk/christmas/ santa-afternoon-teas
Bucklebury Farm Park
Contact venue for dates Five-minute private grotto session with Father Christmas, a present plus festive activities. buckleburyfarm.co.uk/whats-on
Pinewood Miniature Railway, Wokingham
Contact venue for dates
Mince pie special train rides where Santa will be seen during the ride. pinewoodrailway.co.uk/ specialevents
Letter from Santa
Cinderella at the Hexagon, Reading 7 December–5 January
Cinderella is a hilarious family pantomime suitable for all ages, with tons of slapstick comedy, plenty of audience interaction and stunning musical numbers that you will be singing for days afterwards. whatsonreading.com
Dick Whittington at the Corn Exchange Newbury 29 November–5 January
You can expect all of the usual Newbury pantomime fun, with toe-tapping tunes from across the decades, plenty of magic and sparkle, and, of course, lots of laughter - purrfect for the whole family. cornexchangenew.com
Pinocchio at The Watermill, Newbury 15 November–5 January
With courage, heart, and a sprinkling of magic, Pinocchio celebrates what it means to grow up; the mistakes we make, the lessons we learn and the power of unconditional love. watermill.org.uk
Robin Hood and the Magic Arrow at South Hill Park, Bracknell 29 November–5 January
Packed with singalong songs, comedy chaos, crazy characters and colourful costumes, it’s guaranteed to hit the target and give you something to (Friar) Tuck into! southhillpark.org.uk
Snow White at the Kenton Theatre, Henley 14-30 December
This fun-filled festive extravaganza is bursting at the seams with all the ingredients audiences have come to expect from the Kenton’s much-loved pantomimes: dazzling costumes, spectacular dance routines, a hilarious script, bags of audience interaction and maybe even the odd water gun or two! thekenton.org.uk
The Snow Queen at Reading Rep Theatre 29 November–31 December
This Christmas, immerse yourself in a festive world inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless folktale. readingrep.com
All children love to receive a letter addressed to them in the post. And what could be more special than a letter from Santa? Here are two ways of making this happen.
Royal Mail Letter to Santa
For children to receive a FREE letter from Santa via the Royal Mail children must post their letter to Santa by 30 November. Envelopes must have either a first or second class stamp and be addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. The letter must include your child’s full name and address. www.royalmail.com/christmas/letters-to-santa
NSPCC Santa Letter
Children can also receive a personalised reply from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a donation to the charity. The letter is ordered online and must be placed by 15 December. letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk
Festive Christmas Markets
What better way to get ready for Christmas than a wander around a festive market?! There’s bound to be something in our pick below that will suit your family.
The Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury, RG20 8AE
Friday 8 and Saturday 9
November, 11am–4pm
Enjoy browsing and buying unique presents from local businesses to delight your loved ones this festive season. Designated buggy park and a family activities area with crafts for you and your little ones.
Newbury Town Centre
Saturday 16 November, 10am
A curated selection of local creators and sellers offering unique and handmade Christmas gifts and treats.
South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA
Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 November, 10am-5pm
Over 60 artists present an array of beautiful handmade gifts and festive wares. Explore the specialist open studios throughout the weekend and find out about visual arts courses.
Creativ.Spaces, 2B Southview Park, Caversham, RG4 5AF
Sunday 17 November, 10am–3:30pm
A great opportunity to support local neighbourhood businesses and do your Christmas shopping for a fourth year running. This is a quirky take on the traditional outdoor Christmas market.
Hampstead Norreys Community Shop and Café, Thatcham, RG18 0TD
Saturday 23 November, 3-7pm
Fun for all the family: over 40 artisan stallholders, food and drink, live music and FREE craft activities for children.
Yattendon Village Hall, Yattendon, RG18 0UE
Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November, 10am-4pm
Join this festive market in the
beautiful location of Yattendon Village, with its pubs, café and Christmas tree farm. Refreshments are available at the market, as well as fine craftsmanship and Christmas cheer.
Oaktree Garden Centre, Brock Hill, Bracknell, RG42 6LH
Saturdays and Sundays from 23 November–8 December
A wonderful festive selection of Christmas gifts and crafts, music performances, Bratwurst and mulled wine, children’s entertainment and activities.
Berkshire Music Trust, Stoneham Court, Reading, RG30 4EZ
Sunday 24 November
All stall holders’ space fees and tombola money raised for this event will go to Berkshire Music Trust bursary to help children have access to music.
Reading Town Hall, Blagrave Street, Reading, RG1 1QH
Saturday 30 November, 10am-4pm
Get into the festive spirit with some Christmas shopping from local stall holders and Reading Museum shop. Stall products include upcycled furniture & accessories, jewellery, personalised gifts, board games, wax melts, bath bombs & soap slices, knitted gifts, candles, pamper boxes and more.
Holme Grange Craft Village, Heathlands Road, Wokingham, RG40 3AW
Saturday 30 November
With independent traders and artisan crafters working in a collection of converted barns, visitors can browse in a relaxed environment.
Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury RG14 2DR
Sunday 1 December, 11am–3pm
The House will be host to over 70 stalls selling locally made gifts, food, drink, decorations and craft; the perfect time for a spot of Christmas shopping. For younger visitors there will be themed crafts.
The Cunning Man, Burghfield Bridge, Burghfield Road, Reading, RG30 3RB
Saturday 7 and Saturday 14 December, 9am
The markets are inspired by the very popular German Christmas markets and bringing you a variety of local small businesses for you to support and purchase some gifts from.
Thatcham Broadway Saturday 7 December, 10am–3pm
Part of the Council’s Warming Up for Christmas events.
Silchester Farm, Silchester, RG7 2PS
Saturday 14 December, 10am–4pm
Grab last minute gifts from a variety of local suppliers offering homeware, food and drink, handcrafted trinkets and an array of festive goodies. It’s a fun day out for all the family, so go along get cosy, sip mulled wine and make some memories.
Cracker of a Christmas at Odds Farm Park this winter
Families visiting Odds Farm Park this winter can look forward to a fun-filled cracker of a Christmas experience.
Guests will set off on a magical winter wonderland stroll to the North Pole, where they will visit Mrs Claus’ kitchen, the North Pole Post Office and the Elf town square before journeying to meet Father Christmas for a special one-to-one meeting in his Grotto. Once little ones are with the main man himself, they can tell him all their Christmas wishes and have their photo taken as a magical Christmas keepsake.
Families then head to the Elves’ workshop, where children can make their own soft toy bear to cuddle and take home. Next stop is a visit to the Christmas Toyshop, where younger guests can also choose their main gift from Father Christmas – all at no extra cost.
There are also over 30 breeds of different animals, the outdoor adventure playground, mini golf, go-karts & pedal tractors and giant indoor playbarn for guests to enjoy. Tickets to the Odds Farm Park Christmas Cracker are on sale now and the event runs from Friday 29 November on selected dates until Christmas Eve.
For more information visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk, call 01628 520188 or like and follow @OddsFarmPark on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest news and updates.
What’s on
November & December 2024
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.
SEASONAL EVENTS
At this time of year there are lots of events that span a long period of time, making it easier to fit a visit in! Here are some of the best, in alphabetical order:
Christmas at Basildon Park, near Pangbourne
16 Nov–5 Jan
Immerse yourself in a wonderland of beautifully adorned trees, garlands and twinkling fairy lights, inspired by classic Christmas films. nationaltrust.org.uk/basildonpark
Christmas at Greys Court, near Henley
23 Nov–5 Jan
Step into the welcoming house, sparkling with Christmas decorations, cosy up with a hot soup or enjoy a festive mince pie in the tearoom. nationaltrust.org.uk/greys-court
Christmas at Nuffield Place, near Henley
30 Nov–5 Jan
The house will be decorated and
open from 10:30am each day to experience at your own pace. Grab a warm drink from the Maker Space concession horsebox to sip as you stroll around the garden, or pick up a Christmas gift in the shop or secondhand bookshop. nationaltrust.org.uk/nuffieldplace
Christmas Cracker at Odds Farm Park, High Wycombe 29 Nov–24 Dec
Soak up the seasonal splendour with the return of our sell-out Christmas experience, where the Farm Park has been sprinkled with yuletide wonder and festive frivolities, and families will be joined by a very special guest! oddsfarm.co.uk/christmascracker
Magical Christmas Adventure at 4 Kingdoms Adventure and Farm Park, Headley 23 Nov–24 Dec
Ahead of the Santa Annual New Toy Awards (the SANTA’s), Santa is excited to welcome you to visit the North Pole for a magical Christmas adventure, creating special family memories for years
Festive sparkle at De Vere Wokefield Estate
This December, The View Restaurant opens for a very special carvery lunch for all to enjoy on Saturday 14 and Saturday 21 December. There will also be children’s activities and a special appearance from Santa with a gift for every child.
Back by popular demand, De Vere Wokefield Estate are also hosting their Santa Afternoon Teas in the Mansion House. This year, there are four events to choose from; The Miracle Sisters, The Snow Sisters, The Grumpy Green Villain and The Mermaid Princess and American Captain.
If you’re already thinking ahead to New Year’s Eve, De Vere Wokefield Estate is hosting a party suitable for the whole family. Welcome 2025 all together while enjoying tasty dishes from their international food stalls, while the children are kept busy with interactive entertainment from special guests. Your family will also have access to arts & crafts and a movie room. Don’t forget to bring your dancing shoes as the DJ takes everyone into the New Year! Both residential packages and party tickets are available to book.
To find out more or to book, please visit their website www.devere.co.uk/wokefield-estate/whats-on#!/
to come. themagicalchristmasadventure. co.uk
Santa’s Great Christmas Escape at South Hill Park, Bracknell 7-24 Dec
With a magical mixture of puzzles, games and festive fun, this fantastic interactive adventure escape room is guaranteed to show your little ones why Christmas really is the most wonderful time of the year. southhillpark.org.uk
The Forgetful Elf’s Christmas Feast Trail at Reading Museum Throughout December
Follow a fun festive trail through the museum galleries with a jolly elf! Don’t forget to stop for a rest along the way and write your secret letter to Father Christmas ready to drop in the museum’s post box before you leave! readingmuseum.org.uk
Toys and Teens Appeal at various drop-off points around Reading Until 7 Dec
Reading Family Aid will be collecting toys and gifts for children aged from birth to 16 years which will be distributed in time for Christmas 2024. readingfamilyaid.org
Wellington Illuminova at Wellington Country Park, Riseley 22 Nov–23 Dec
Embark on a journey through the illuminated paths and let the enchanting lights spark your creativity and transport you to a realm where dreams come to life. wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk
Winter Wonderland Reading 9 Nov–5 Jan
Whether it’s the huge North Pole giant observation wheel, ice rink, Santa’s grotto or the penguin bumper cars, there is something for everyone to enjoy and make festive memories this Christmas. readingwinterwonderland.co.uk
Don’t forget to say you saw these listings in Families Thames Valley West Magazine
1 Nov
NOVEMBER
Barbie Pop-up Experience at Englefield Village Hall
Barbie-themed experience full of fun, food, photoshoots for keepsakes, catwalk and competitions. 10am / 1pm / 4pm facebook.com/PS We love to party
1 Nov Messy Museum Morning at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
Choose between one of three ancient Egypt wooden stand-up shapes (subject to availability) –the Sphinx, a pyramid, or the god Anubis – and decorate with paint sticks. 10am – 1pm westberkshireheritage.org
1 Nov Bach to Baby Half Term Family Concert in Reading - Go For Baroque at Reading Minster Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you take a moment out of your busy day to hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians, with your young babes in tow. 11am whatsonreading.com
1 Nov
Victorian Schoolroom Experience at the Abbey Gateway, Reading
A 45-minute experience for adults and children over 5 in our unique Victorian classroom, in the historic Abbey Gateway. 11am / 2pm readingmuseum.org.uk
1 Nov
Mrs Armitage on Wheels at Battle Library, Reading
Adapted from Quentin Blake’s classic tale, Mrs Armitage on Wheels, Scoot Theatre present a 40-minute fun, family show for ages 3+ and particularly enjoyable to primary-aged children, featuring live music, puppetry and physical comedy. 2pm whatsonreading.com
1 Nov
The Magic of Science at the Kenton Theatre, Henley Experience non-stop actionpacked interactive magical science experiments that will capture the imagination, a fastmoving and colourful magical science show, packed with mystery, suspense, and heaps of mess! 2:30pm thekenton.org.uk
1 Nov
Dragon Hunt! at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
Family friendly event involving a FREE dragon hunt through a dark or dimly lit museum – please bring a torch. 5pm westberkshireheritage.org
2 Nov
Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Designed for children and adults alike, Mark’s Spectacular Science Show explores the strange and magical properties of matter with exploding elephant’s toothpaste, vortex-generating dustbins and even howling jelly babies! 2pm cornexchangenew.com
3 Nov
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham It’s National Non-Fiction November, so celebrate information books with a particular focus on hobbies and leisure interests. 5-8. 10–11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
3 Nov
Mischief and Mystery in Moominvalley at South Hill Park, Bracknell
Based on the much-loved novels by Tove Jansson, this heartwarming show tells the story of a year in Moominvalley. 12pm / 2pm southhillpark.org.uk
3 Nov Daydreams and Jellybeans: Pre-Show Workshop at the Corn Exchange Newbury Come and create your own magical daydream mobile for your room. 2–2:30pm cornexchangenew.com
3 Nov
Daydreams and Jellybeans at the Corn Exchange Newbury
This sparkling dance production showcases the talents of Alex Wharton himself, reading, rapping, and rhyming his way through mischievous adventures, melancholy musings, and Jellybean drama. 3pm cornexchangenew.com
5 Nov
Chieveley Fireworks
Spectacular Fireworks display designed by multi-award-winning Illusion Fireworks. 5:45pm mychieveley.co.uk/chieveleyfireworks
6-10 Nov
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat at South Hill Park, Bracknell
This family-friendly tale of Joseph will include favourite memorable numbers such as ‘Any Dream Will Do’ and ‘Go Go Go Joseph’, high-energy choreography and of course the coat of many colours! southhillpark.org.uk
7-9 Nov
Annie at the Kenton Theatre, Henley
This production offers a great experience for all ages with its engaging story and memorable characters, not to mention Sandy the dog! thekenton.org.uk
7 and 8 Nov
Dinosaur-themed days at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell
Face painting, story time sessions, sensory activities and arts and crafts for children up to 5. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisureand-events/look-out-discoverycentre
8 Nov
Baby Prints in Clay at the Corn Exchange Newbury Workshop includes printing on a tile, and creating your own prints in clay, which can be turned into giftable dishes, coasters or tree decorations. 11am–1pm cornexchangenew.com
8 Nov
Dunsden Community Fireworks Event
The event includes a licensed bar, hot dogs, hot drinks and a tuck shop. 6pm facebook.com/Dunsden Community Fireworks Event
8-14 Nov
Paddington in Peru film at Reading Biscuit Factory
Paddington travels to Peru to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who now resides at the Home for Retired Bears. readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk
9 Nov Teen Rangers at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A wildlife club for 11–17-year-olds who have an interest in wildlife and conservation. 10:30am–12:30pm bbowt.org.uk/events
9 Nov Young Rangers at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A wildlife club for 8–11-year-olds who love nature and wildlife. 2–4pm bbowt.org.uk/events
14 and 15 Nov
Nature Tots at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham Tots can take part in outdoor nature play, stories, trails and crafts. 10–11:30am bbowt.org.uk/events
16 Nov
Newbury Christmas Lights Switch On
The town will come alive with a full day of festivities leading up to the much-anticipated Christmas Lights Switch On at 6pm, followed by the official Lights Switch On Afterparty. visitnewbury.org.uk/newburychristmas-lights-switch-on
16 Nov
Glow Walk at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
A 2-mile walk around Black Swan Lake under starlight and take in the illuminated woodland, various light features, live music and much more. 5–9pm firstdays.net/event-details/glowwalk-2024
17 Nov
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham It’s National Non-Fiction November, so celebrate
information books with a particular focus on hobbies and leisure interests. 10–11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
17 Nov
Public Running Day at Pinewood Miniature Railway, Wokingham Train rides for all ages. 11am – 3pm pinewoodrailway.co.uk
23 Nov
Little Robin Red Vest at South Street Arts Centre, Reading Using original songs, puppetry and integrated Makaton, playful performers will share this heartwarming tale of friendship, generosity, and the joy of giving. 11:30am / 2pm whatsonreading.com
24 Nov
Wokingham Winter Carnival
The carnival includes amazing attractions, a traditional fun fair, stalls and food and drink. wintercarnival.co.uk
24 Nov
Reading Comic Con at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Reading Enjoy out of this world displays and props, traders selling out of this world collections, meet celebrities from TV and the movies! 10am–5pm whatsonreading.com
24 Nov Elsa and Olaf Singalong Lunch at Village Bracknell
Enjoy a 2-course Sunday lunch and live family entertainment from Elsa and Olaf! village-hotels.co.uk/bracknell
29 Nov Bach to Baby Family Christmas Concert at Reading Minster
Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and join this Bach to Baby concert for the perfect prelude to the holiday season! 4pm whatsonreading.com
29 Nov Henley Christmas Festival
The town centre will be filled with stalls and rides to entertain the whole family. 5–9pm henleytowncouncil.gov.uk/event/ christmas-festival-2024
30 Nov
Make a Pottery Santa Dish at The Base, Newbury
Your little one will create and personalise their very own dish for Santa’s snacks to be left out on Christmas Eve with Base resident artists Cait Gould. cornexchangenew.com
30 Nov and 14 Dec
Make and Take: Christmas Special at Reading Museum
Create some traditional Christmas craft to take away and decorate your home. 10am–4pm readingmuseum.org.uk
30 Nov
Reindeer Round-Up at Shaw House, Newbury
Begin by creating an antler headband and then explore the house to round up the reindeer! 11am–2pm westberkshireheritage.org/ whats-on
Goodboys
Mortimer, Reading, RG7
WHAT’S ON
DECEMBER
1 Dec
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham
Off to the ends of the earth this month looking at books set in the Arctic and Antarctic, with a side of seasonal fun. Suitable for ages 5-11. 10am – 11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
1 Dec
Nutcracker at the Kenton Theatre, Henley
Whether your little ones have never been to the theatre before or are regular visitors, all children will be transported to the magical Land of Sweets and meet the Mouse King, Snow Queen and gorgeous Sugar Plum Fairy. 1pm / 3pm thekenton.org.uk
1 Dec Kidical Mass Bike Ride from Thames Lido, Reading Circular Christmas ride. 2pm kidicalmassreading.co.uk
3-5 Dec
Christmas Wreath Making at Shaw House, Newbury
You will learn how to master the technique of mossing your own wreath and then add seasonal foliage. westberkshireheritage.org/ whats-on
5 and 6 Dec
Winter Wonderland-themed days at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell
Face painting, story time sessions, sensory activities and arts and crafts for children up to 5. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisureand-events/look-out-discoverycentre
5 and 6 Dec
Nature Tots at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
Tots can take part in outdoor nature play, stories, trails and crafts. 10–11:30am bbowt.org.uk/events
6 Dec
Warming Up for Christmas: Lights Switch On, Thatcham Broadway Snow, a special appearance from Santa and some special sparkles in the sky when the lights are switched on! From 5pm thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk
7 Dec Family Festive Fun: Make your own Baubles at Made By Tamalia, Reading
You will learn 3 different decorating techniques to create 3 different bauble styles to take away and hang on your Christmas tree. 10–11:30am madebytamalia.co.uk
7 Dec Teen Rangers at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A wildlife club for 11–17-year-olds who have an interest in wildlife and conservation. 10:30am –12:30pm bbowt.org.uk/events
7 Dec Young Rangers at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A wildlife club for 8 – 11-year-olds who love nature and wildlife. 2–4pm bbowt.org.uk/events
8 Dec
Dinton Santa Dash at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
Now in its 8th year, the Dinton Santa Dash at Dinton Pastures Country Park is becoming an annual tradition with many families and is a great way to be active during the frantic festive season. 10:30am – 1pm barnesfitness.co.uk/dintonsanta-dash
8 Dec
A Visit from the Snow Sisters at Shaw House, Newbury
The princesses will entertain young audiences with a fun sing-a-long, themed games and magical story time. 11am / 1pm / 3pm westberkshireheritage.org/ whats-on
13 Dec
Christmas Carol Concert at Shaw House, Newbury
The programme will include music which tells the Christmas story from Advent to Epiphany, with poems and readings along with traditional carols for audience participation. 7:30–9pm westberkshireheritage.org/ whats-on
13 and 14 Dec
Shinfield Players Youth Group Review at Shinfield Players Theatre, Reading Shinfield Players’ vibrant Youth Groups present a showcase of their latest work. whatsonreading.com
14 Dec
Festive Storytime at The Base, Newbury Merry-go-Round Storytelling will bring the classic Christmas story of the The Elves and the Shoemaker to life. 10–11am cornexchangenew.com
14 Dec
Wifi Wars Xmas Special at South Street Arts Centre, Reading Log in with your smartphone or tablet and compete in a range of games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show, and prizes! 3pm / 7:30pm whatsonreading.com
14 and 21 Dec
Festival Family Carvery Lunch at De Vere Wokefield Estate, Mortimer
In addition to the carvery, there will also be children’s activities to keep the little ones entertained and an appearance from Santa who will have a gift for those children on his nice list! 1pm devere.co.uk/wokefield-estate
15 Dec
Children’s Magic Show at Shaw House, Newbury
Featuring Mr Muddle the charming if muddlesome magician, who
captivates and amazes children with his comical slapstick magic and laugh-out-loud antics! 11am / 12:30pm / 2pm westberkshireheritage.org/ whats-on
15 Dec
The Snowman Live with Wantage Band at Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury
The concert will centre around a performance of the soundtrack to the 1982 popular short film, The Snowman along to a screening of the film itself. 1:30pm / 4pm thesnowman.com
15 Dec
Kidical Mass Bike Ride from Elms Field Playground, Wokingham Circular Christmas ride. 2pm kidicalmassreading.co.uk
15 Dec
Family Willow Making at The Base, Newbury Fun for all the family, make willow
School
Open Days
Nov-Dec 2024
trees, stars and mini reindeer to decorate your tree and home this Christmas. 2–4pm cornexchangenew.com
15 Dec
Festival of Light 2024 in Newbury town centre
The procession will travel along Northbrook Street before arriving in the Market Place with live music and a festive atmosphere. 4pm cornexchangenew.com
15 Dec
Shinfield Players Charity Christmas Show at Shinfield Players Theatre, Reading Join many of the Shinfield Players members to celebrate Christmas with caroling and entertainment with a festive theme where all the profits are shared with local charities. 7pm whatsonreading.com
Open days may need pre-booking. Please check before visiting.
St Joseph’s College Upper Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5JT 0118 966 1000 sjcr.org.uk
Wednesday 6 Nov, 9:30am Prep school open morning Wednesday 13 Nov, 9:30am Stay and play
16 Dec
Magical Lights, My Way at the Museum of English Rural Life, Reading
A relaxed version of Magical Lights with sensory provision for neurodivergent visitors and their friends, families, and loved ones. 4:30–5:30pm merl.reading.ac.uk
16 Dec
Magical Lights at the Museum of English Rural Life, Reading Celebrate the end of the year with crafts, lanterns, and lights in the museum garden. 6–7:30pm merl.reading.ac.uk
20 Dec
Messy Museum Morning at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury Decorate a ceramic Christmas tree hanging decoration with porcelain pens and glitter. 10am–1pm westberkshireheritage.org/ whats-on
20 Dec
Bach to Baby Christmas Family Concert at Reading Minster Magical music, festive frolics, sparkles and spices. 11am whatsonreading.com
21 Dec The Snowman with St Sebastian Band at Wokingham Baptist Church
Live music with a showing of the film, which is 40 years old this year. wokinghambrassband.com
21 Dec
Christmas in Bricksville at Woodcote Village Hall
Creative brick-building workshop for LEGO fans. 2–4pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk
21 and 22 Dec
Santa Paddle: A Festive Adventure at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
Bundle up in your Santa suit, or throw on your favourite Christmasthemed costume, and join a magical Santa Paddle during the Christmas weekend! 10:30am-12pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
22 Dec
The Miracle Sisters – Festive Family Afternoon Tea at De Vere Wokefield Estate, Mortimer Indulge in a magical afternoon tea for all the family set in the gorgeous Mansion House this Christmas season. 1pm devere.co.uk/wokefield-estate
23 Dec
Movie in the Hall: A Christmas Carol at Shaw House, Newbury An animated retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic novel about a Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of self-redemption, courtesy of several mysterious Christmas apparitions. 10:30am westberkshireheritage.org/ whats-on
23 Dec
The Mermaid Princess and American Captain Afternoon Tea at De Vere Wokefield Estate, Mortimer Indulge in a magical afternoon tea for all the family set in the gorgeous Mansion House this Christmas season. 1pm devere.co.uk/wokefield-estate
23 Dec
Christmas in Bricksville at The Heights Primary School, Caversham Creative brick building workshop for LEGO Fans. 9:30–11:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
23 Dec
Christmas in Bricksville at Sonning Common Village Hall Creative brick building workshop for LEGO Fans. 2:30pm – 4:30pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk
28 Dec Coral Challow Hurdle Day at Newbury Racecourse
The day – which features the Grade 1 Coral Challow Hurdle on the track – also boasts a host of free family-friendly activities and fun. newburyracecourse.co.uk
30 Dec
The Great Arctic Adventure at Cholsey Pavillion
LEGO Brick Building Workshop. 2:30pm – 4:30pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk
31 Dec
New Year’s Eve Family Park at De Vere Wokefield Estate, Mortimer
This exclusive, friendly event will see you and your loved ones into 2025 in the finest style; from the delicious food stalls to the games room to the children’s entertainment. devere.co.uk/wokefield-estate/ offers/new-years-eve-fam
