Families Thames Valley West November/December 2022

Editor’s Welcome

to the last issue of 2022!

a busy two months with lots of excitement, and we have got into the Christmas spirit this issue with a guide to where to find Father Christmas locally and a great roundup of local pantos and other festive events.

Although summer sunshine feels long past, I enjoyed putting together a journal of the family’s recent trip to the Isle of Wight for this issue. Memorable times with the children are so precious, whether small or large. It was also nice to be able to showcase Prospect Park, a favourite of the family – and of my family when I was growing up. There is a wealth of outdoor fun to be had in the area; get in touch if you would like to share your favourite place!

Also included are some high-quality articles which you will enjoy when you’re back inside and curled up with a hot drink, amongst them one on boys’ body dissatisfaction, which is rarely discussed, and some solidarity for all those households where their children’s sleep habits are definitely not compatible with a busy working life.

Enjoy your family time during these happy months!

The Corn Exchange Newbury Panto is back and full of beans!

Head to the Corn Exchange Newbury this festive season for a pantomime adventure full of Fee Fi Fo Fun for all the family in Jack and the Beanstalk!

When Jack sells the beloved family cow for some magic beans, a beanstalk climbing adventure begins! But as Jack reaches the top, he finds a mystical castle in the clouds… and a very unfriendly giant who has some very unfriendly plans. Can Jack and the gang defeat the giant? And will they become rich beyond their wildest dreams?

Dream team, Plested, Brown and Wilsher, have delighted Newbury audiences for the last three years with their hilarious and fresh takes on muchloved pantomime tales.

Join them on this next epic adventure packed with plenty of jokes, songs from across the decades and magic in GIGANTIC proportions!

Find out more: www.cornexchangenew.com/panto

Top Award for GR Swimming Schools

GR Swimming Schools is a local swim school which has just scooped a top award in the swimming world – Swim England Swim School of the Year 2022! Which means we have the best swim school right here on our doorstep serving Newbury, Hermitage, Bucklebury, Thatcham, Goring, Pangbourne & everywhere in between.

• They proved that they are worthy of this coveted award by providing lessons to children, adults, people with aquaphobia and are actively inclusive to SENs children.

• They also showed their teachers’ commitment to continuing to learn and develop i.e. by attaining additional qualifications to help their students.

• They have the highest safeguarding and safety standards and continually strive to maintain them.

• Since 2019 when the owner Joanna Lay took over the swim school, she has worked hard to develop her team and to raise safety, safeguarding and teaching standards.

Jo’s reaction: “I am so honoured to be able to say we are the best in England! But humbled to know our parents think we are too. We will live up to and maintain our high standards and always aim to learn and improve.”

For more information about lessons, careers or pool time, contact swimlessons. co.uk or jo@swimlessons.co.uk

Shopping with a difference at True Food Co-op

One of Reading’s best kept secrets is the True Food Co-op, a community run Organic, Ethical and Zero Waste Supermarket in Emmer Green. It’s a great place to bring the kids to get them involved in the fun side of plasticfree shopping. Bring along your empty food containers and household bottles, and they can fill their child-sized trollies and baskets. There are over 80 zero waste foods – including fruit and nut snacks to scoop and weigh; and household and body care products to refill using the pumps and funnels. And if you’re concerned about making environmentally friendly and healthy choices, almost everything in store is organic. You’ll also find lots of ethical Christmas stocking fillers and tasty presents, including for those with specific dietary requirements.

Find them on bus route 23/24 from Reading station, opposite Emmer Green Primary School: www.truefood.coop

Toyota Dream Car 2023 Contest

The Toyota Dream Car 2023 Contest is open for entries. Children are challenged to design wild and wonderful ideas for future transport that can also help protect the environment.

Last year’s winning entries in the UK national round of the competition included a car that protects endangered animals in Africa, and a vehicle powered by toxic waste and sewage water.

The contest has three age categories: under 8-year-olds, 8 to 11 and 12 to 15-year-olds. Entries may be hand-drawn or digital designs including a colourful background and explanation of how the vehicle works and what makes it special.

The winning entries in each age category will receive an Apple iPad, and second and third-placed entries will win a Samsung Galaxy tablet.

Entry forms and details can be found at www.toyota.co.uk/dreamcar-2023. The closing date is 23 December 2022.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Odds Farm Park

The countdown to Christmas is on at Odds Farm Park this winter as the family attraction, near Beaconsfield, launches its Christmas Spectacular event on Saturday 3 December.

Visitors can walk through the sparkling enchanted woodland as they head to meet Father Christmas for a special one-to-one meeting in his Grotto, and littles ones can be sure to tell him all of their Christmas wishes.

Families can then head to ‘Cuddle Creation’ in the Elves’ workshop, where children can make their own soft toy bear, cuddle and take home, complete with a birth certificate – all at no extra cost.

Louise Winslow, Head of Guest Operations at Odds Farm Park, says: “Christmas is a very special time for lots of people and it’s one of our favourite events of the year here at Odds.

The Christmas Spectacular takes place between 3–24 December 2022.

For more information, call 01628 520188, visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk, or like and follow @OddsFarmPark on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest news and updates.

Breakthrough book shows how to beat maternal anxiety using CBT techniques

Contrary to popular belief, the most prevalent mental health issue during the perinatal period is anxiety, not postnatal depression. In fact, studies show that about 15% of women will experience a significant anxiety problem at some point during pregnancy or the first postnatal year.

It’s normal to feel anxious during pregnancy and after having a baby. But when is it a problem? How is anxiety different to post-natal depression? What are the different forms anxiety can take? What are the thought and behavioural patterns that intensify the symptoms?

Break Free From Maternal Anxiety is the first evidence-based resource, using cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) techniques, to explore how to cope with persistent and distressing worries about pregnancy and becoming a mother.

GIVEAWAY: We have a free copy of Break Free From Maternal Anxiety to give away. Send your name and address to editor@familiestvw.co.uk by 30 November to be in with a chance of being chosen to receive it.

Leading nursery brand ClevaMama launch asthma & allergy

friendly Toddler Pillow

One of the reasons that children may struggle in the night can be down to the likes of asthma and allergies. According to Asthma.ie, 1 in 5 children will experience asthma at some stage in their lives. The new ClevaMama’s ClevaFoam® Toddler Pillow is one of the first to be certified as asthma & allergy friendly®. This pillow is a must-have winter essential for parents, aiding a good night’s sleep before creche/school.

GIVEAWAY: We have one free pillow to give away. Send your name and address to editor@familiestvw.co.uk by 30 November if you would like to be entered into the draw to receive it.

Enjoy Artemis Studios production of The Wizard of Oz

Artemis Studios is a performing arts charity providing award winning inexpensive (often free) classes in and around Bracknell since 2007.

Classes include Cheerleading, Hip Hop, Acting, Musical Theatre for ages 3-adult! We are an Ofsted registered evening/ weekend school, and a free to attend full time vocational performing arts college (based at South Hill Park Arts Centre).

We accept split payments, and Childcare Vouchers/Tax free Childcare helping families to budget. Classes start at just £46 for a whole 12 week term!

As well as term time classes, we offer free and low cost holiday workshops - with highly qualified and talented teachers (including West end choreographers, and real actors and directors) who are professionals in their specialist area!

Why not join us on February 25 and 26 2023 in The Wilde Theatre for an amazing production of The Wizard of Oz (youth edition).

Free two week tryout for all our classes www.artemis-studios.co.uk

Educating for the future with Montessori

By Louise Livingston

Children are often asked what they want to be when they grow up. From farmers to flight attendants, astronauts to doctors, the answers are always a mix of familiar careers. But astonishingly, over two thirds of children joining primary school this September will end up in jobs that don’t yet exist. Think back thirty years - there were no social media managers or Bitcoin traders!

Today’s workplace is rapidly changing. As Richard Riley, former Secretary of Education, said:

‘We are currently preparing students for jobs that don’t yet exist, using technologies that haven’t been invented to solve problems we don’t even know are problems yet.’

It’s a challenge and mainstream education will be required to adjust. Is an education system that focuses mainly on teaching children academic subjects outdated?

Focusing on tests and exam results will not deliver for a future which will need creative, flexible problem-solvers who can collaborate.

The visionary educational pioneer, Maria Montessori, recognised this when she wrote,

‘Education must no longer be mostly imparting knowledge but must take a new path, seeking the release of human potentialities.’

In Montessori education, children are guided by a teacher trained in child observation and development. Classrooms provide open-ended, handson activities where children choose tasks appropriate to their stage of development.

With activities so targeted to each child’s individual needs and interests, children are engaged and motivated to concentrate, persevere and develop self-discipline. In addition, the activities are designed to encourage children to

think flexibly and come up with creative solutions. In the early years, this may simply be how to unbuckle their shoes or share a snack. Later, it may be an exploration of the Jurassic period or a novel approach to solving quadratic equations.

Mixed-age classes with children aged up to three years apart is another key feature of Montessori education. Younger children learn from older role models and older children benefit from the experience too. In this mini community, children share resources, put things away ready for someone else after they have used them and help each other. This fosters social collaboration and builds emotional intelligence.

Age is just a number

In a Montessori environment, children with a three-year age span work alongside each other, choosing and taking part in activities as and when they are developmentally ready. This is in sharp contrast to mainstream approaches which typically require children to learn the same things at the same time, in the same year group.

Developmentally, there can be a marked difference in the abilities of the youngest and oldest children in a standard classroom and how readily they can pass set milestones and tests.

With Montessori, children develop capacities at their own pace, building on a firm foundation of what they can already do.

Mistakes are viewed positively as an opportunity to find a different way of doing something, whereas sometimes mainstream approaches can make children feel that ‘getting it right’ is all that matters. When mistakes are valued as part of the learning process, a child’s confidence grows, they are able to try new things and contribute their ideas, exemplifying the fact that everyone has a unique perspective to offer.

Louise Livingston has over thirty years’ experience in education and a background in educational neuroscience. She is Head of Training at the Maria Montessori Institute (www. mariamontessori.org), which offers Montessori teacher training, online short courses and the Maria Montessori School for ages 2 to 12 in London.

School, Shinfield Road,

Thursday 10th

Friday 11th

Queen Anne’s School, Henley Road, Caversham,

Saturday 5th

RG4

Boarding taster weekend

Tuesday 8th November: Taster day for current year 11 children Friday 11th November Thursday 24th November: Taster day for current year 6 children

St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5JT 0118 966 1000 I www.sjcr.org.uk

Tuesday 1st November, 9:30am–11:15am: Pre-reception – Year 6

STATE SCHOOLS

Crazies Hill Primary School, Crazies Hill, Reading, RG10 8LY 0118 940 2612 I www.crazieshill.co.uk

Thursday 3rd November, 9:30-10:15am

Kidmore End Primary School, Chalkhouse Green Road, Reading, RG4 9AU

0118 357 3149 I www.kidmore-end.co.uk

Friday 4th November 2022, 9:30am Thursday 10th November 2022, 9:30am Tuesday 15th November 2022, 1:30pm Wednesday 23rd November 2022, 1:30pm

Thursday 1st December 2022, 9:30am

Meet the Head: Padworth College

Padworth College is a small sixth form international boarding college for students aged 14 to 19 years, set within a picturesque 12-acre campus in Padworth, West Berkshire. This issue we caught up with its new Principal, Mr Crispin Dawson, to find out more about the college and his own experiences.

You have recently joined Padworth College; where have you worked previously, and what attracted you to the college?

I was previously the Deputy Head at Cheltenham College in Gloucestershire and then went to Oman to set up Cheltenham’s first overseas school, which was an amazing experience, but I was keen to return to the UK.

Padworth was attractive, because it is a small school with a very strong community, and I have always enjoyed working in schools where there is a sense that the staff and pupils are in the journey together and we all want the same thing –namely the students to thrive in their time with us and beyond.

Can you tell us a little of the history of Padworth College?

I have done my research!

Padworth College was established in 1963 by an Oxford university professor, Peter Fison, who aimed to bring international style tutorial teaching methods to schoollevel education. Originally a sixth form boarding house school for girls, Padworth was highly unusual, with no uniform, but afternoon tea and formal dinners being very much part of the school day!

Padworth College welcomed boys for the first time in 2005 and has remained coeducational since.

In what ways is Padworth College different from other schools?

The size of the school is the obvious thing. We have space for around 120 students, and that means the class sizes are small and the teachers know the students really well and can ensure each individual is catered for in that class.

There is a relaxed atmosphere, whereby teachers are called by their first names and we have a uniform code, not a strict uniform.

We have a number of international students in our boarding houses, and in that regard we are an excellent preparation for university and beyond, where the world our young people will go into will very much be an international world.

Padworth College has a wonderful mixture of students from all over the world. How do you ensure all students are integrated and feel at home?

It starts from when they first sign up, where our Admissions team will stay

the

in regular contact, and if they have any questions we are only too happy to jump on a Zoom call and chat things through.

When the students arrive, we have 4 days of induction, as we realise how important that is. Team-building activities take place alongside the chance to just sit down and chat and get to know each well.

We have loads of theme days where the students can explain a little bit about the country they come from and what is important to them. This opens minds and helps all the students accept one another. This is often accompanied by the whole community eating food from that country.

Ultimately all of that can never replace the importance of having friendly and supportive staff who will go out of their way to ensure all our students feel comfortable.

Have you had a particularly funny moment during your teaching career that you would like to share?

There were certainly some eye-opening moments in Oman; for example we had to shut the school at lunchtime because a Prince would be arriving that afternoon and so all the roads around had to be shut for him to drive past. We were given two hours’ notice and the Internet didn’t work. That was crazy.

The funniest times are when the students make innocent mistakes – I did enjoy reading in a student essay that the universe had been created by the “Big Band”. Imagine that!!

If you had a time machine, when would you choose to visit?

My wife is a history teacher, so whatever I say there will be a reason I should have chosen another era, but if pushed I would want to visit the early Greeks. I would love to hear Socrates, Plato and Aristotle, as their views are so important as the basis of the culture we live in today.

What would you like to achieve over the next couple of years and beyond?

I want to ensure more people know about Padworth, what we can offer and how we can help students thrive. Then it is about making sure that we do the basics really well - i.e., ensuring that each individual at Padworth (staff and students) has the opportunity to thrive.

Equally important is having some fun along the way, and hopefully to get my 5k run time down to what it was a few years ago!!

To find out more about Padworth College, visit www.padworth.com

Choosing the right primary school

By Gabrielle Nash

If your child turns four this academic year, they’ll be starting Reception next September and now’s the time to make their primary school application. Exciting times!

Your child’s primary school and its community becomes a large part of your family’s life, so feeling happy about the choice is very important. Depending on where you live you might have just one, two or maybe three schools to apply to. Or there may be numerous schools if you live in a city. So how do you go about knowing which will be a good fit for you and your child?

The catchment area

School catchment area is a key admission criterion for schools. This is generally based on the furthest distance that a pupil was admitted to the school the previous year but boundaries can be extended or shrink, according to the variables of each intake year. For example, one year there may be a larger cohort of siblings or looked-after children taking priority or it may be a year with a high birth rate, so the map alone does not guarantee your top choice.

You can check each school’s catchment area through your local authority to establish whether you’re likely to fall within it. Think carefully before aiming for a school for which you’re not in the catchment area. You don’t want to waste one of your choices.

Consider your working week. If you’re commuting to work, how will you do that after school drop-off? Is there a train or bus nearby or space to park your car?

A good fit

Every school is organised and managed differently, so you’ll need to do some research to see what each school offers and what matters most to you. When you’re shortlisting schools, it’s important to visit to get a feel for each one. Go armed with lists of questions and an open mind.

Each school will have its own personality but so does your child. Are they loud or reserved? Smaller schools with just one-form entry might suit a quieter child. If your child has any special educational needs, you’ll want to know the school caters well for them.

Extras

What wrap-around care does the school offer? If it doesn’t suit your needs, are there sufficient alternative options? Find out which secondary schools pupils go on to and see how that impacts on your thought process. For example, if a high proportion of the pupils go to the best local secondary school, then that’s a plus.

Top tips

Ofsted inspectors give ratings in their report: outstanding, good, requires improvement or inadequate. The Ofsted report also gives feedback on how different groups of children fare and the school’s strengths and weaknesses. While an Ofsted report is important, do not base your decision solely upon it.

Reach out to school parents on social media to get a range of opinions. See how they align with yours.

Go through the application procedure on your local authority’s website so you’re fully aware of the process.

Faith schools are an attractive option in many areas but it’s likely you’ll need to complete an additional form outlining your family’s religious practices.

When you are allocated your child’s school place in the spring, you can consider appealing the decision if you’re unhappy with the outcome. There are no guarantees the position will change though.

If you have a summer-born child, you may be able to defer their school start. You’ll need to approach your local authority.

Top resources

Find and compare schools in England at www.gov.uk/schoolperformance-tables

Get to grips with your child’s move into full-time education, with the Good Schools Guide (www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk) and The School Run (www.theschoolrun.com)

Understand the school’s catchment area with the interactive tool at The School Guide (www.schoolguide.co.uk)

If you’re a parent of a child with additional needs, seek further specialist advice at My Family Needs (www.myfamilyneeds. co.uk)

Reach out to other parents for parent-focussed tips on how to choose a school. Local Facebook groups are useful but so are resources that host forums where you can contact other parents eg www.mumsnet.com and www.netmums.com

For when the day finally arrives, there are some super resources for starting primary school at BBC Bitesize (www.bbc.co.uk/ bitesize) and Family Lives (www.familylives.org.uk).

Reasons to teach black British history in schools

By Ilhan Rayen Awed

Black British history is British history. Not only is this phrase true but it is necessary to acknowledge.

The teaching of black British history in schools is imperative. It is important for every student to understand and acknowledge the contributions that Black Britons have made to this country.

During Black History Month in October, a few black Britons are generally spotlighted during school lessons. But it’s by embedding black British history throughout the curriculum, in all key stages and throughout the year, that it will be possible to deliver a more accurate view of British history in general.

There are many reasons why the teaching of black British history is crucial. The focus of schools first and foremost should be their students. The integration of black British history into the curriculum will give all students a sense of identity and representation.

Learning about important figures like John Blanke, Mary Prince and Olive Morris gives children the opportunity to find a way in to history by getting to know real people. What follows is greater engagement and interest from those children in topics that previously they may not have felt were relevant to them.

Furthermore, teaching black British history helps alleviate any inequality within the curriculum. By not teaching children about the contributions made by black Britons to British society, it’s as if they are deemed to be unimportant and trivial.

So teaching black British history is inclusive and helps children feel seen, heard, understood and represented.

The benefits of teaching students about black British history are plentiful, not least helping to prevent racism and ignorance from a young age. Educating students on both black British history and the black British lived experience also helps dispel any stereotypes, preconceived notions and bias that children may have towards black Britons. It also allows for students that are not of Afro-Caribbean descent to understand, empathise and engage with different cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds.

Teaching black British history allows children to understand our collective British history better.

Ilhan Rayen Awed is from The Black Curriculum (www. theblackcurriculum.com), a social enterprise founded in 2019 to address the lack of black British history in the British curriculum. It delivers arts focused black history programmes for children ages 8 to 16 which aim to give them a sense of identity, provides teacher training and encourages young people to mobilise and facilitate social change.

Outside the classroom

The importance of teaching black British history should extend outside the classroom too. Although diversifying the school environment is key, as educators, parents or carers, it’s helpful to learn about black British history in our everyday lives.

One of the best ways to do this through reading. Reading provides many benefits for children and young people as it allows them to foster imagination whilst also improving their focus and concentration. Reading books with black protagonists or that are written by black authors also provides students with a sense of identity and representation.

A great resource that can be used to teach black British history is the Black Curriculum’s new book series which includes: Migration: Journeys through Black British History, Places: Important Sites in Black British History and Legacies: Black British Pioneers. Each book features the stories of the people, places and journeys that have shaped Britain. These books are both educational and engaging with bold illustrations and activities and are perfect for readers to continue their learning outside the classroom.

Anti-Bullying Week 2022

Anti-Bullying Week takes place from 14 to 18 November.

The week will kick off with Odd Socks Day on Monday 14 November, during which adults and children wear odd socks to celebrate what makes us all unique.

The theme of ‘Reach Out’ is about empowering children to do something positive to counter the harm and hurt that bullying causes.

Whether it’s in school, at home, in the community or online, let’s reach out and offer support to each other. Reach out to someone you trust if you need to talk. Reach out to someone you think is being bullied. Reach out and consider a new approach.

The Anti-Bullying alliance website has a free parent pack offering advice and tools to support families.

To get involved, visit www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

Resolving playground conflict

By Zuzu Jordan

Playground conflicts can shape a child’s experience at school. When we show children how to manage them, they are learning vital life lessons about getting on with other people.

Conflict vs bullying Conflicts in the playground can flare up and be forgotten from one day to the next.

As parents, we can’t swoop in and save our children from uncomfortable or even painful situations while they are at school. However, we can equip them with their own skills to use when teachers are not immediately available to intervene. Using well-chosen words can change the course of a conflict and help equip children to deal with future ones.

Of course, it’s important to understand where conflict ends and bullying begins: bullying involves a repeated, intentional act to hurt someone; it can take many forms. All schools must have an anti-bullying policy should bullying occur.

Take action

When conflict occurs, explain to your child that ‘hotting up’ a conflict makes a disagreement worse and ‘cooling down’ makes it better; we can help children realise they have the power to influence and resolve situations.

Start by listing which behaviours can hot up a conflict, such as shouting, name-calling, invading personal space, accusing, lying and being physical. Then list the behaviours that can cool down a conflict: admitting to what you did wrong, saying sorry, saying what you would like to happen, using a calm voice and avoiding words such as ‘always’ and ‘never’ which can immediately make someone feel defensive.

Active listening is a fundamental skill in resolving conflicts. Help your children practise by asking them to listen and repeat instructions back and paraphrase what you have said. Encourage them to ask questions so they learn how to develop healthy dialogues.

Older children may have more complex conflicts involving social media. These require a slightly different approach. Childline (www.childline.org.uk) and UNICEF (www.unicef.org.uk) offer solid support and advice for those who are experiencing issues online.

Dealing with conflict provides an opportunity for growth, emotionally, socially and intellectually. By continuing to observe and give children a safe space to talk about any conflicts they have, we are providing useful safeguards against potential bullying scenarios.

Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find the Instagram page edumate_uk.

What is bullying? What are peer listeners?

Bullying is defined as a repeated, intentional act to harm someone. It is further defined as an act that can be both emotional and physical, targeted at individuals or groups of people and/or based on a particular identity.

All schools must have a policy that both addresses reported bullying and has preventative measures. If bullying occurs outside of school, headteachers do hold some power to make sure pupils behave off the school grounds.

Most organisations advise parents and pupils to report ongoing bullying to the school.

If a crime has been committed then the police should be informed. Keep evidence and a timeline of events if possible. Be alert to changes in your child’s demeanour and discuss the next steps with them.

Work through the ‘bullying temperature check’ on the AntiBullying Alliance website (www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk)

Anti-Bullying Week takes place from 14 to 18 November. The Anti-Bullying alliance website has a free parent pack offering advice and tools to support families.

Some schools have implemented programmes where selected children are trained to listen to and support their peers. This particularly helps those who find it easier to open up to someone their own age who they can relate to. Often called peer listeners or playground buddies, the trainees are available to help with tricky situations that may arise in the playground.

Part of the training involves knowing when to recognise problems that are ‘too big’ and require adult support; for example issues that arise at home.

Peer listeners are taught the importance of confidentiality and empathy. Training also includes how to ask open-ended questions which encourages others to talk and demonstrates the value of getting problems off one’s chest.

These skills are crucial in life. Often both parties benefit from the interaction as the listener develops leadership skills whilst their peer gets to offload their concerns.

Giving children a chance to become a peer listener takes children one step closer to becoming a responsible citizen.

Prospect Park

Liebenrood Road, Reading, RG30 2ND

How to make leaf lanterns

From Little Muddy Boots

and it is definitely worth a

This large park is located in

even

don’t

as there is so much to do there.

The park’s latest offerings are a brand-new crazy golf course with cute models of Reading landmarks at each hole and a low ropes course for children up to 7 years. There are also tennis courts, football pitches and table tennis tables.

For free fun in the park, there is loads of space for running around, dog walking or cycling. My son learned to ride a bike on one of the paths there, and so it has become part of our family’s history.

As a child I remember sledging down the hill in the park and exploring the woods (great for bluebells in the spring).

There is also a little pond with ducks and other wildlife, and a Harvester restaurant in the grand mansion house that looks out from the top of the hill if you want some refreshment.

However the jewel in the crown of this park for many young visitors is the wonderful miniature railway which runs in the afternoons on the first Sunday of every month. These beautifully-maintained miniature steam engines have been running faithfully since the 1970s and seem to have been growing in popularity over the years, now also offering children’s birthday parties and Santa visits.

For more details, check out their Facebook page: Prospect Park Railway - Reading Society of Model Engineers.

These lanterns are a fun activity in the autumn. Before you sit down to make them, take your children leaf collecting and challenge them to see how many gorgeous, coloured leaves they can collect. The more colours the better.

You will need:

• Empty milk carton

• PVA glue

• Autumn leaves

• Battery night light candle*

Step by step guide

1. Cut off the top of an empty milk carton and clean it out.

2. Cover the outside with PVA glue.

3. Stick lots of colourful autumn leaves on the outside.

4. Then cover the top of the leaves with glue too.

5. Leave to dry.

6. When dry add a candle inside the lantern.

Watch it glow!

*Battery candle: We recommend battery candles are they are safer for children. But please do not leave your child unattended as the batteries can be harmful to young children if swallowed.

Also…

If you are looking places to go leaf collecting, there are some great places locally. You could try Saville Gardens and Virginia Lake (by the totem pole) or Swinley Forest, Dinton Pastures and Crocksherd Wood.

Nature Discovery Centre

Grand Re -Opening

To find out about children’s nature classes or for more nature

The

Staycation on the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is one of our closest beach destinations, and my children and I had a fantastic holiday there back in the searing heatwave in August, staying at the elegant Daish’s Hotel in Shanklin.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN SHANKLIN

We set out for our first ever trip to the Isle of Wight with great excitement! It had been quite a few years since I had taken a car ferry, and I was as thrilled as the children by the half-hour crossing.

We reached Shanklin mid afternoon and spotted Daish’s Hotel easily: its large white buildings with blue trim and spacious lawn are right on the High Street. Inside the hotel boasts wide corridors with cosy nooks and a vast staircase (the children couldn’t resist jumping the last three steps together!)

Now it was time to hit the beach! All three of us love beaches and the sea, and this was a long sandy one with plenty of space. The tide was out, and the children rushed into the sea for a “paddle” but got completely soaked (swimming gear next time!) It was low tide, and my daughter went crazy in the tidal pools and streams.

There was an enormous dinner ready for us back at the hotel. After the first night, guests order their evening meal at breakfast time, and it makes for a swift and efficient meal, which worked really well for us.

DAY 2: TRAINS AND THE SEASIDE

My son is a big stream train fan, so we headed to the Isle of Wight’s steam railway on our first full day. We wandered through Shanklin after a plentiful breakfast; it has loads of independent shops, and the children bought some beautiful purple rocks before reaching the station.

The Isle of Wight has a small railway for modern trains, which meets the stream railway at Smallbrook Junction; even catching a modern train in a new place felt like a novelty! The steam train was as wonderful as expected: beautifully maintained and staffed by cheerful people in old-fashioned uniforms. We alighted at Havenstreet for lunch

and a look at some beautiful carriages in different states of repair in the museum. There was also a gift shop (selling train memorabilia – and fake poo: great hilarity!)

Not wanting to miss another beach, we stopped on the way back at Sandown, which is a long sandy beach with a great view of Culver Cliff. We were sweltering, and the sea was a balmy 20 degrees, so it was a perfect spot for a swim.

DAY 3: THE NEEDLES

You can’t visit the Isle of Wight without seeing The Needles up close (I had decided), so that is where we headed today. The row of sharp white rocks lined up in the sea is easy to spot from the mainland and undoubtedly has many stories to tell.

Rugged clifftops with footpaths and a visitors’ centre nearby, showing tasteful displays about the formation and history of The Needles…

Ha! The reality of “The Needles Landmark Attraction” was different: loads of brash attractions completely unrelated to The

Needles. Luckily, I was with a 9-year-old and a 4-year-old, and arcades and teacup rides were much more relevant to them than rocks in the sea!

Later in the day we visited Shanklin Beach again. The tide was right in when we arrived, so it looked very different this time. We had fun in the sea and wandered back in time for baths and dinner.

DAY 4: SHANKLIN CHINE AND DONKEYS

Our last full day, and we had a couple of local things to tick off our to-do list. After breakfast the children made a beeline for the nearby sweetshop, a treasure trove of sweets of all shapes, sizes and colours.

Next we continued on foot to Shanklin Chine, an amazing little ravine forged within a crack in the cliff. It was a cool, green oasis and had some wonderful paths and benches on different levels. It is illuminated at night, which must be a magical sight.

Only a short trip by car from Shanklin is the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, where we headed for a visit and lunch next. The gentle donkeys are all rescue or homeless animals, and they have a large home at the sanctuary in beautiful countryside. One of the highlights for my daughter was galloping around and over jumps on a unicorn hobbyhorse; we had to drag her away with a promise of the beach!

…Sandown was our beach choice again. The weather was cooler and overcast, which was a relief after the heat wave, and there was more sand and sea play before heading back for our last dinner at Daish’s Hotel. It’s amazing how quickly time seems to pass sometimes!

DAY 5: GOODBYE

We woke up to rain and cool temperatures, which made a change. Breakfast and checkout were as slick as we’d come to expect from the hotel, and we were on our way with packed lunches from the hotel coffee shop at 10 o’clock. It was a lovely family break, with lasting memories made.

Visit www.daishs.com to find out more about Daish’s Holidays

Boys’ body dissatisfaction

By Dr Charlotte Markey

It’s known that girls can show an awareness of dieting by the time they start primary school. Meanwhile, many boys feel they should be bigger, more muscular, more ‘manly.’ While this is a sign of body dissatisfaction, it tends to fly under the radar or go unnoticed by adults because it’s disguised as ‘getting healthy.’

Body dissatisfaction is not a superficial concern as it impacts health behaviours, social interactions and mental health in general.

Research indicates that boys and girls are almost equally likely to experience body dissatisfaction. Where girls might focus on weight loss diets, boys are apt to over-exercise, cut sugar or carbs (or both) from their diets and become consumed with their health.

Most parents aren’t likely to be concerned if their son decides to skip dessert or spend time lifting weights. If this shift in habits also coincides with puberty, it can be difficult to tell if a boy is getting leaner, broad-shouldered or just taller.

In other words, the typical parent may not be able to tell if there is a problem brewing or just normal teen development taking place. Still, this change in habits should be a red flag to keep an eye out for body dissatisfaction or even the emergence of disordered eating.

How do you know when your son has a problem or is just genuinely becoming more responsible for his health?

Boys should be gaining weight through puberty, not losing weight. If you notice your son losing weight, an appointment with a family doctor is in order.

It’s also important that health consciousness doesn’t interfere with enjoyment of food.

If your son is rigid in his eating habits and won’t have a treat at a birthday party or refuses to participate in social activities that involve food, it’s likely there’s a problem. Further, supplement use (eg protein powder) is often indicative of real body image concerns.

Body dissatisfaction and disordered eating can become chronic and dangerous, interfering with health and development.

Treatment is more effective when problems are caught early. When in doubt, it’s best to seek guidance from a professional with relevant expertise, such as a registered dietitian or therapist.

A balanced diet

It’s a popular misconception that boys and men need significantly more protein than girls and women. Furthermore, many people (um, boys) believe that they are protein deficient and that extra protein

be used by the body; it will simply pass through. Some research suggests that men often eat too much protein and not enough fruit and vegetables. A balanced diet is a better and safer source of nutrition, given that regulation of supplements is spotty to non-existent.

If your son asks you to buy protein foods or make more protein-rich meals, explain how it’s important to eat a variety of foods and that the diet and supplement industry profit from our insecurities. If his goal is growth, health or even muscle, a varied diet is more important than protein.

With knowledge of what constitutes a healthy diet and body, boys will be better able to make informed decisions and act on them accordingly.

Charlotte Markey PhD is a professor of psychology and chair of the health sciences department at Rutgers University, USA. Her latest book, Being You: The Body Image Book for Boys, is published by Cambridge University Press.

Sleepless in ….wherever…

By Shyamantha Asokan

How do you juggle work and home when your kids won’t sleep?

It’s 4.30am and I’m sleeping across the bottom end of my bed. I’m all crunched up so my feet don’t dangle off the edge, with no pillow and my duvet at a weird angle. I doubt this even counts as sleep – but I’ll take whatever I can get.

So how did I get here?

My three-year-old daughter and my fifteen-month-old son are just emerging from a month of back-to-back nursery illnesses, which has thrown their sleep right off course. Although, even in normal circumstances, neither of them is great at sleeping when they should or where they should. They certainly don’t sleep like the children in all the parenting books I’ve read (seriously, who are those children?).

Here’s a typical night in our house at the moment…

• 8pm: Both kids go to sleep in their bedrooms.

• 11pm: My son wakes and will only go back to sleep in our bed. Husband goes to sofa.

• 1am: My daughter wakes and goes to sleep on the sofa with my husband.

• 2am onwards: My son wakes one or two more times and I cuddle him back to sleep with varying degrees of success. Sometimes it takes an hour.

• 6am: The kids are up for the day.

Sometimes my son falls asleep on my lap and I have to shuffle him onto our mattress at a diagonal angle, in order not to wake him, leaving me just the bottom strip of the bed to sleep on.

Sometimes he falls asleep on my arm and I have to ‘ninja slide’ it out from under him when he’s in a deep-sleep phase. The whole thing is absurd.

Writing emails in my mind

Of course, I still need to go to work – and working while sleepdeprived is brutal.

Madonna and Margaret Thatcher, two under-slept women who were big in the 1980s, both seemed to equate a lack of rest with a passion for their job. This is questionable for a million reasons. Tracy Emin, big in the 1990s, perhaps more sensibly described her insomnia as ‘crippling.’

In any case, I just turn out to be a rubbish version of my usual self. My eyes burn as I read research reports, concentrating is hard and pretending not to be tired is tiring.

In meetings, part of me is listening to what everyone is saying but part of me is just thinking about how well-slept they all look. If you’ve had a meeting with me recently and you thought I was a bit distracted, it’s because I was thinking about how great the skin under your eyes looks.

Overnight, when I’m woken by the kids, I struggle to go back to sleep as work-thoughts pop up and race around my head. I lie at the bottom of the bed and write emails in my mind. Meanwhile my son snuffles and snores like a contented little sea-lion, in his rightful place at the centre of the only double bed in the house.

I was, of course, working when I was on maternity leave last year – looking after children and running a house is a job. But I was surrounded by other women with young children, in a blearyeyed ecosystem where everyone was tired. The professional ‘back-to-work’ world feels very different. Arianna Huffington has said that sleep is a feminist issue, as women get far less of it than men.

But, in the midst of it all, there are suddenly moments of pure rest.

There are endless parenting books that tell you not to cosleep with your children but in my family’s case it’s a balm for everyone involved. At the weekend I have afternoon naps with my daughter and her truly innocent sleep, the kind that only a child can have, calms me until I drop off too.

Shyamantha Asokan is a Midlands-based journalist and mother of two. This blog is part of a series called The Chaos Train, a record of daily life when you have a career and preschool children.

With thanks to www.workingmums.co.uk who host her blog online. Find part time, home based and flexible full-time jobs plus advice for working mums on its site.

Clubs and classes directory

Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: editor@familiestvw.co.uk.

DEVELOPMENTAL CLASSES

Baby Sensory North Reading

Awardwinning baby development classes for babies from birth to 13months.

Classes run during term time in Henley, Caversham and Tilehurst.

Each session’s new adventure is filled with wonderful sensory experiences enhancing learning and development. From singing and signing, musical instruments, tummy time, massage, visual development and so much more! Contact Helen for more information 07899 790405 northreading@babysensory.co.uk www.babysensory.com/northreading

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, Theale, Caversham and other Berkshire locations Monday-Friday.

Contact Cari Weston 07729 261018 cari@bilinguasing.com

GYMNASTICS, SPORT AND SWIMMING

Bulmershe Gymnastics Club

Based at a purpose-built gym in Woodley, run gymnastics classes for all ages including Leap Frogs for walkers to five years lead by qualified coaches. www.bulmershegymnastics.co.uk

Artemis Cheer & Dance

Artemis Cheer: Ages 4-adult, regional and national champions in 2019 and 2021! Training in Pinewood Gym and free holiday training sessions.

Artemis Street and Commercial dance: Ages 4-adult. Training in Great Hollands, Bracknell, taught by England Dance Team coach. Technique class with IDTA exams, junior and senior crews.

Artemis College: Full-time, free training. Ofsted registered - we accept childcare vouchers.

Free two-week tryout in all classes!

01344429403 Registration@artemis-studios.co.uk www.bracknellcheer.co.uk

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.

GR Swimming Schools

Uniquely structured, safe, FUN, swimming lessons from 3 years old. Lessons include continual assessment and lane progression. There is a maximum of 6 children per class. We are currently looking for a private indoor, heated pool, 1 or 2 weekday mornings, for much needed community baby & toddler classes in the Newbury/Hungerford area. jo@swimlessons.co.uk www.swimlessons.co.uk

St Joseph’s Swim School

New! 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! For more information visit www. sjcr.org.uk/swimschool or contact us on swimschool@sjcr.org.uk

Artemis Studios & Artemis College

Mini & Junior: Artemis Little Actors, ages 4-7, Artemis Junior Theatre Company, ages 7-12.

Teen: Artemis Medusa Musical Theatre Company, ages 13-23, Artemis Medusa Pro,ages 13-23. Screen acting and producing, Artemis College – full-time, free vocational training sixth form.

Holidays: Low-cost and free holiday classes for children, free three-week summer intensives with qualifications for teens. Ofsted registered, childcare vouchers accepted.

Free two-week tryout in all classes!

www.artemis-studios.co.uk

Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow

COVID secure, fun, energetic theatre classes for 3½ to 18yrs. Dance, drama, singing, tap, street dance, pop styles and musical theatre. Regular award-winning classes in Wokingham and Woodley, plus summer schools. Call Shelley on 07970 034 488, or email shelley@steppinoutstars.co.uk www.steppinoutstars.co.uk

Master Builders Club Brick Building Workshops for Children

Diddi Dance Reading and Wokingham

Funky pre-school dance classes around Reading & Wokingham for children aged 1.5-5.

Specialist toddler dance programme exploring 16 different dance styles. Using action songs, dancing games, fun exercises, hoops and dance ribbons to our own, unique, funky pop songs.

FREE trial available. Ask for details!

Contact Bethany Bianga 07584 281174 bethany.bianga@diddidance.com

Award-winning after-school drama classes for kids who love to ACT! Burghfield, Tilehurst, Lower Earley, Mortimer and Wokingham. High-energy classes mean that students never get bored, can’t wait to get to class and develop confidence, creativity and focus. Free trial class and a Pay-as-yougo option for infants. Ages 5+.

Come and join the fun! Full listing of available classes, prices and venues at: https://stageability.class4kids.co.uk

jackie@stageability.co.uk www.stageability.co.uk

Perform drama, dance and singing classes

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

JG Dance

Classes from 2.5 to 18 years for all abilities in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Singing, Acrobatics & Drama. Twice Yearly Theatre Performances. Free Trial Lesson.

Saturday Theatre College (Twyford) RAD Ballet, ISTD modern & Tap LAMDA singing & Drama. Grades to Vocational Exams.

Classes on Tuesday: Woodley, Wednesday: Bourne-End, Thursday: Tilehurst & Twyford, Saturday: Sonning Common, Kidmore End & Basingstoke 01491 572000 info@jgdance.co.uk www.jgdance.co.uk

Confidence-building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s, designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Every child can try a free noobligation class, visit www.perform.org.uk/try

Watermill Youth Theatre

The Watermill Theatre in Newbury is one of the most successful regional producing theatres in the country. Our weekly classes are designed to develop creativity, teach fundamental performance skills and enhance individuality. Classes are fully accessible to all young people, regardless of need or ability. A range of groups suitable for young people aged 4-25 years. Call Matty Green on 01635 570934 or email outreach@watermill.org.uk www.watermill.org.uk

MUSIC

Little Muddy Boots

Little Muddy Boots is an established unique garden and nature club, which inspires outdoor play, hands on learning and time spent as a family making memories. Termly sessions are available alongside PAYG Saturday clubs and Forest School holiday sessions. Suitable for children aged 1-6 years old (siblings welcome). Little Muddy Boots is based at sites located across Berkshire.

hello@littlemuddyboots.co.uk www.littlemuddyboots.co.uk

PREGNANCY

Happy Births

Hypnobirthing classes, Antenatal education, Bespoke birth preparation coaching, Birth trauma recovery therapy Preparation is key when it comes to maximising the likelihood of a positive birth experience. Marvel at your body’s amazing abilities, get informed about your options, learn skills to enable you to make the right choices for you, develop a practice of gorgeous relaxation techniques, and get your partner trained up to be the best support on the day. You deserve to feel confident and calm about this super exciting journey to meeting your baby.

Contact Sarah Collison, 07740 349946 sarah.happybirths@gmail.com www.happybirths.net

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.

Book a FREE taster session. youthgroup@progresstheatre.co.uk progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre

Musicscool

Does your Child Love to Sing? Musicscool run fun and rewarding choirs for children aged between 5 and 14.

Based in Twyford, MUSICSCOOL VOICES sing all sorts of music and build children’s confidence through practice and performance.

Find out more at musicscool.co.uk

forget to say you saw these listings in Families Thames Valley West Magazine

Introducing a new sibling

Introducing a new baby into the family can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking time for parents. Here are some tips on the best ways to prepare your older children for the impending arrival of their baby sibling and help them to feel loved and included during the process.

Explain what’s going to happen

If they are under the age of two, they may not be that interested at all and take the idea of a new addition to the family in their stride. However, a slightly older child might be bursting with questions or struggle emotionally with the transition.

Prepare them for what to expect

Explain that the new baby is going to be with mummy or daddy most of the time and the baby is going to do a lot of sleeping, crying and feeding. This will also help manage their expectations so they won’t expect their new sibling to be a playmate from the moment they enter your home!

Tell the story of their birth

Show your children some old photographs of when you were pregnant with them or of them when they were a baby. Talk to them about what it was like when they were younger and how they too cried and fed all hours of the day. This will be a lovely bonding exercise and help them understand why the new baby will need more attention initially.

Role play looking after the baby

Using a doll is another great way to introduce your children to the idea of having a baby around the home. They can practise how to be gentle, hold the baby and talk to them. Overall, this helps to normalise the idea of a baby. Better still, if you’ve got friends or family with small babies, set up meet ups or playdates so your child can get used to hearing baby cries, being around a baby and observing how mums and babies interact.

Get them involved in the planning

Ask them what they think of the names you’ve picked for the baby. Chances are they won’t like your choices and would much prefer Spider-Man or Peppa but the key thing is to value their opinions!

Take them shopping for newborn essentials

It will help them feel important if you let them pick some baby clothes. They could also help put new items away, pack the baby changing bag or even prepare the nursery.

Make them the focus

Family and friends will be enamoured with the new baby which may make your older children feel left out. It will help them feel much more secure and loved if you heap attention on them as well. Being full of praise, especially when they’re around the baby, will really help boost their confidence and esteem.

A ‘gift’ from the new baby to their older sibling is also a wonderful way to instil good feelings from the get-go. Show how much the newborn loves their older siblings already and can’t wait to get to know them.

The stress of the change may cause your children to act out or behave badly; remember, it’s normal. They may also start to regress and act younger than their age. Being patient and praising them for their good behaviour might help reduce this.

When introducing a new baby, one of parents’ biggest fears is that their older children will feel left out. Try to not feel guilty about spending less time with them and instead focus on quality time over quantity.

With thanks to leading UK baby brand, Nuby (www.nuby-uk. com) for this article.

Lightening the mental load this Christmas

By Chloe Lowe

Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year for parents. The pressure to create the perfect experience for everyone builds into a behemoth balancing on a plate of mince pies, threatening to crumble at any minute.

The upward comparison with Insta-perfect mums and crafting geniuses, let alone the constant narrative in the press, on television and on social media, means the mental load reaches an all-time high during the festive season and it’s well documented that mums bear the heaviest burden.

The sheer volume of things to think about and do can quickly lead to high-stress, low mood and burnout and not enjoying a minute of Christmas.

It’s very British to need to present the perfect picture. But when you realise that you can’t control everything, including the actions of your extended family or your delivery man, it can be truly liberating!

How to create your ‘perfectly imperfect’ Christmas

Here’s a few tips on how to manage the mental load this Christmas and feel good about it too.

Grab a pen and paper and write a list of the top three things that mean the most to you this Christmas.

Focus on those first. Doing a few things well will feel so much better than spreading yourself too thin and doing lots of things, just ‘ok’.

Ask for and accept help - it’s a sign of strength, not a weakness.

Slow down to speed up. Running on caffeine at one hundred miles per hour is detrimental to your mind and body. Slowing down and taking some deep breaths or even indulging in a Christmas movie, will help you reset, re-energise and get some headspace.

Ask yourself what your children really want and need this Christmas and focus on that rather than succumbing to the pressure to spoil them or compete with peers.

Reduce your time on social media. It’s amazing how many hours you’ll get back.

Avoid too many excesses. Don’t deprive yourself of a glass of fizz and a few mince pies but counter them with a family walk in the fresh air or a healthy breakfast or lunch.

And don’t forget to give yourself the gift of self-care so that you can enjoy Christmas too.

Chloe Lowe is founder of @parentlistapp (www.parentlist. app), the app for busy parents who want to find joy in parenting.

Choosing and caring for your Christmas tree

We all want a Christmas tree that lasts as long as possible. Here are some tips for selecting and maintaining your tree.

How do I select a tree that’s the correct height for my room?

Measure the distance between your ceiling and floor, which gives you the vertical height limit. Take a note of the height of your tree stand. Deduct the height of the stand from your vertical height limit and you have the maximum possible height of tree that your room can accommodate. Take these measurements with you. Doing this preparation will ensure you don’t end up coming home with a tree that is too tall.

Is my tree fresh and how long will it last?

A healthy tree will have bright and shiny needles, not dry and dull. If you spot any grey sections, that’s a sign of dehydration which means that the tree is not that fresh. If the tree is fresh, the needles should not break easily and should be hard to pull off. If the trunk is sticky and there is any sap residue, the tree is fresh. Also, the tree should be heavy, which means it is freshly cut and still contains all its water.

Which trees typically survive longest?

Choose Douglas or Nordmann Firs as the best options. If cared for well, they can last for about six weeks before withering, offering the best longevity throughout the Christmas season. Lower the temperature in the room where you put up your tree, as this really slows down the drying process and keeps your tree fresher for longer.

What are the best watering tricks?

Your tree will need one litre of water per three cm of the stem diameter. That means a fresh cut tree can consume four to five litres a day. Watering is critical, especially for Norway Spruce trees.

Check the water level daily and never let it go below the tree’s base. Without water at the tree’s base, the tree will dry out within a week. The temperature of the water is not that important and no, you can’t overwater your tree, it will absorb only as much as it wants.

How to give a fading Christmas tree new life Give your tree a good trim which will reduce the number of water-requiring branches. Keep the room as cool as possible and move your tree to the darkest place of the room.

Families would like to thank Fantastic Services (www.fantasticservices. com) for this article.

Christmas Fairs

Enjoy a variety of local festive fairs in the runup to Christmas, each with their own, unique atmosphere!

5 and 6 Nov, 3–7pm

Harmpstead Norreys Community Shop, Hampstead Norreys, Thatcham, RG18 0TD Candlelit Market held in the grounds of Manor Courtyard and beyond, over 40 wonderful stalls, food and drink, live music.

12 and 13 Nov, 10am–5pm

South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA

Artists join us from around the country to show and sell their fabulous hand crafted items made with pearls, glass, ceramics, silver, wire, wood, paints, candles and much more – thousands of beautiful, unique gift ideas and festive wares.

19 and 20 Nov, 10am–4pm

Yattendon Village Hall, Church Lane, Yattendon, RG18 0UE

A showcase of Contemporary Art, Craft and Design featuring over 20 exceptional artists, designers, makers and craftspeople.

20 Nov, 10am–3:30pm

Creativ.Spaces, 2B Southview Park, Marsack Street, Caversham, Reading, RG4 5AF

A great opportunity to support local neighbourhood businesses and do your Christmas shopping for a second year running: a quirky take on the traditional outdoor Christmas market.

24-27 Nov, 4pm

Henley Christmas Fair Stonor Park, Henleyon-Thames, RG9 6HF, thecraftshows.co.uk/ henleyxmas

Set on the front lawns of the very picturesque Stonor Park Manor House, beautifully-styled wooden chalets and heated indoor marquees await filled with a diverse range of festive eats, treats and gifts creating a truly unique shopping experience.

27 Nov, 11am–3pm

The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX

Find special gifts in our gift shop, seasonal treats in the café, meet

our local suppliers, try some Christmassy crafting AND feel a warm glow knowing that all your purchases help support The MERL’s work with collections and communities.

26 Nov, 12–4pm and 2 Dec, 6–9pm

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

The perfect opportunity to browse for unique presents as local artisan stallholders showcase their handmade wares.

3-4 Dec, 10am–8pm (Saturday), 5pm (Sunday)

Northbook Street, Newbury, RG14

the fayre is set to include a wide range of market stalls with traders dressed head-to-toe in typical Victorian attire, alongside Victorian-themed roving performers, a Victorian carousel, live music and entertainment and, of course, Father Christmas, helping to make this a truly unforgettable event for Newbury.

4 Dec, 11am–3pm Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR

Enjoy a day of festivities set to a soundtrack of vintage tunes from Gramofun, along with hot food, mulled wine, Newbury’s Living Advent Calendar and an outdoor trail for children.

4 Dec, 1–6pm Unit 20, Stadium Way, Tilehurst, Reading, RG30 6BX

Our brewery will be transformed into Reading’s premier indie indoor market hall for a special Christmas gifting market, joined by incredibly talented local craftspeople, delicious street food from Fink Street Food, coffee and cake from Anonymous Coffee Co. and of course, plenty of fresh DB beer!

11 Dec, 12–6pm

The Dog and Duck, Matthewsgreen Road, Wokingham, RG41 1JT

Craft stalls, food, drink and carol singers in the garden

Get your child a letter from Santa

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 in an envelope with either a first or second class stamp and addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. The letter must include your child’s full name and address.

Check the deadline for posting the letter to Santa at 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. Check the deadline at https://letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk

Where is Santa?

Father Christmas is a busy man in November and December! Luckily we have managed to track down his schedule and found some local places where he will be visiting and where you can take children to see him –always a magical experience!

Father Christmas in Bracknell, 19 Nov–19 Dec Moss End Garden Village, Warfield, RG42 6EJ ticketsource.co.uk/ fatherchristmasinbracknell

A Wild Christmas at Beale Park, 25 Nov–24 Dec Beale Wildlife Park, Lower Basildon, RG8 9NW,bealepark. org.uk/christmas

Santa’s Breakfast: 26 Nov–24 Dec

Dobbies Reading, RG2 9ER & Dobbies Hare Hatch, RG10 9SW, dobbies.com/events

Santa’s Grotto: 24 Nov–24 Dec Dobbies Hare Hatch, RG10 9SW, dobbies.com/events

Santa’s Quiet Grotto, 9 Dec Dobbies Hare Hatch, RG10 9SW, dobbies.com/events

Father Christmas at the Farm, 27 Nov–23 Dec Bucklebury Farm Park, Reading, RG7 6RR buckleburyfarm.co.uk/events/ father-christmas-at-the-farm, dobbies.com/events

The Santa Show 2022: Santa Saves Christmas, 3 Dec Kenton Theatre, Henley-onThames, RG9 2BP kentontheatre.co.uk

Christmas Spectacular at Odds Farm Park, 3–24 Dec Odds Farm Park, High Wycombe, HP10 0LX

oddsfarm.co.uk/christmasspectacular-2022/

Santa Sunday Lunch, 4–18 Dec Cantley House Hotel, Wokingham, RG40 1JY cantleyhotel.co.uk/christmas-1/ santa-sunday-lunch.html

Breakfast with Santa, 10–23 Dec Henry Street Garden Centre, Arborfield, RG2 9JY henrystreet.co.uk/events

Santa Saves Christmas, 11 Dec Arlington Arts Centre, Snelsmore Common, Newbury, RG14 3BQ, Arlington-arts.com

Santa on Newbury Boat Trip on the Kennet and Avon Canal, 11–23 Dec

K&A Trust, The Wharf, Couch Lane, Devizes, SN10 1EB, jubilee.katrust.org.uk/specials/

Santa Cruises, 17-18 Dec Hobbs of Henley, The Boat House, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 1AZ, hobbsofhenley.com/santacruises

Santa Boat Trip on the Rose of Hungerford, 17–24 Dec K&A Trust, Canal Walk, Hungerford, RG17 0EQ, rose.katrust.org.uk/specials

1-4 Nov

Maidenhead Schools Exhibition

2022

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

The exhibition will show a wealth of talent in a range of mediums including paint, textiles and digital media. Free entry. 5pm–10pm

1-5 Nov

The Sleeping Sword Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury RG20 8AE, watermill. org.uk

Meet Ben Bundle. He likes fishing and snorkelling, jumping off rocks and exploring the magical island of Bryher with his friends. From £10

1-7 Nov

Gratitude to Nature Children’s Trail Greys Court, Henley-on-Thames RG9 4PG, nationaltrust.org.uk/ greys-court

On this trail, we encourage little ones to think about what nature does for us through a host of fun activities. £2

2 Nov

Mini Messy Museum

West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, westberkshireheritage.org/westberkshire-museum

You and your child will take part in a fun and simple art and craft themed around a museum object, and then you’ll have the opportunity to do a self-led gallery visit to find the museum object linked to the morning’s art and craft. Free entry. 10:15am

5 Nov

on

Creative Mindfulness for Children (aged 4-7 years)

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, Norden.farm Creative activities, art, sound, stories, meditations, visualisations and discussion. £10, 4-7 years: 11am, 8-11 years: 12pm

5 Nov

Fish Out of Water: MCDC Outside Marks & Spencer, Reading, RG1 2BH, whatsonreading.com

Fish Out of Water is a fresh, family-friendly, free outdoor dance performance using hip hop, interactive sculptures & responsive music to explore themes of belonging, otherness, displacement & migrancy. Free. 11:30am/1pm/ 2:30pm

5 Nov

The Dark South Street Arts Centre, Reading, RG1 4QU, whatsonreading.com Peut-Etre Theatre merge vibrant physicality with live music to create captivating and energetic performances for the whole family. £10. 11:30am

5 Nov

Bonfire and Fireworks Display

The Club at Mapledurham, Chazey Heath, Reading, RG4 7UD, theclubatmapledurham.com With food stalls, entertainment and more, our annual firework display is always a night to remember for the whole family. 4pm

5 Nov

Wokingham Fireworks Spectacular Cantley Field, Wokingham, RG40 5QG, Wokingham-fireworks.co.uk Funfair, torchlight procession and fireworks! 5:30pm

5-30 Nov

The Riddle Reading Town Centre, whatsonreading.com

Focused on a current societal concern (our consumption of digital technology), participants are tasked to help the central character Pæn, re-engage with the wonders of the outdoors by hunting down QR codes, solving riddles, making and sharing their own dance moves. Free

6 Nov

Reading Children’s Book Group Fourbears Books, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8JG It’s National Non-Fiction November so come and enjoy a celebration of brilliant factual books. Suitable for ages 5-8. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but pre-booking essential by 4pm on Sat 5 Nov via 0118 948 1747 or info@ fourbearsbooks.uk. 10am-11am

6 Nov

Woodley Mega Baby and Children’s Market

Woodford Park Leisure Centre, Haddon Drive, Woodley, RG5 4LY, babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Over 35+ stalls on offer bursting with top-quality baby and children’s items plus maternity items at BARGAIN PRICES all under one roof, plus free children’s activities. Adults £2, children free. 10:30am–12pm

6 Nov

Newbury Fireworks Spectacular Newbury Showground, Priors Court, Hermitage, RG18 9QZ, xplosiveevents.com/events/ newbury-fireworks-spectacular Witness an enormous, jaw-dropping firework display choreographed to music and synchronised with a powerful light show that will be seen for miles! 4-9pm

7 and 10 Nov Nature Tots

Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU bbowt.org.uk/events

Join our friendly Nature Tots staff and volunteers to explore the nature reserve and enjoy wildlife-themed activities suitable for ages 18 months to 4 years (accompanied by an adult who is able to encourage and help). £7 per child (accompanying adults free). 10–11:30am

9 Nov

The Nutcracker Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, cornexchangenew.com

Prepare to enter a magical new world – the nutcracker in this ballet may be a handsome prince in disguise. 7:45pm

9-11 Nov

Junior Music Festival

The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA, whatsonreading.com

Berkshire Maestros Junior Music Festival once again brings hundreds of children together from local primary schools to celebrate the joy of singing. £16. 7pm

12 Nov Nick Cope

Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, cornexchangenew.com

Nick Cope has been writing and recording his beautiful and totally unique songs for children and their families for over 10 years. £11 11am

12 Nov–2 Jan

Reading Winter Wonderland Hills Meadow, Reading, RG4 8DH, readingwinterwonderland.co.uk

We offer a wide range of attractions, activities and entertainment for visitors of all ages, including a real ice skating rink undercover, Santa’s grotto and festive food and drinks.

16 Nov–6 Jan

A Winter Ball

Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading RG8 9NR, nationaltrust. org/basildon-park

Children can get in on the excitement with an activity trail through trees hanging with clocks and fairy lights. The anticipation builds as they’re urged to get to the ball before the clocks strike midnight.

17 Nov–23 Dec

Neverland Illuminova Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, RG7 1SP, neverlandilluminova.co.uk

For the first time, Wellington Country Park’s gates will open at dusk to reveal a kingdom of illumination.

18 Nov–1 Jan

Rapunzel

Watermill Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury RG20 8AE, watermill.org.uk

Join us for a lively adventure through the rolling hills and deep dark forests of Italy with music, magic pigs and plenty of surprises! From £12

19 Nov

Newbury Christmas Lights Switchon Event

Newbury town centre, visitnewbury.org.uk

Following the success of last year’s event, we’ll be extending this fabulously festive and FREE family-focused event into a day-long festival. 10am–6pm

19 Nov

Craft your Christmas with Sara Davies

The Hexagon, Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA, whatsonreading.com

Craft Your Christmas with Sara Davies is the perfect warm up for the festive break, with plenty of practical demonstrations, creative ideas and a healthy slice of Sara’s down to earth know how. £29.50. 7:30pm

19 Nov

Sustainable Living Market

Thatcham Catholic Hall, RG18 3AG, slmthatchamnewbury.co.uk

We have refillable cleaning products, plastic free shops, recycled and hand-made jewellery, sustainable homewares, natural and organic beauty products. We also organise a baby and children’s clothes swap, have a fabulous coffee and cake van and offer recycling facilities. 10:30am–1pm

19 Nov

Draw your Own Christmas Family Sweatshirts

The Base, Greenham Business Park, Greenham, RG19 6AB, thebasegreenham.co.uk

Create your own unique festive sweatshirt design to wear as a family this Christmas with illustrator & graphic designer Mark Bijak. Adults £40, children £30. 10am

19 Nov

Family Concertini with Cut and Shine

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, Norden.farm Dust off your cowboy hats, gingham checks or grab something from our fancy dress box for a foot-stomping, rip-roaring, thigh-slapping 45 minutes of traditional music. £10-£12

11:30am/2pm

19 and 26 Nov

Lantern Making Workshops

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

Across two hours, weave an intricate animal-inspired willow frame before covering and decorating your creation. 6+ years. £7. 10:30am/2pm

20 Nov

Reading Children’s Book Group Fourbears Books, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8JG

An exciting event about the science behind climate change and renewable energy. Guest speaker and practical demonstrations. Suitable for ages 9-11. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but pre-booking essential by 4pm on Sat 19 Nov via 0118 948 1747 or info@fourbearsbooks.uk

10am-11am

29 Nov–30 Dec

One Snowy Night

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, Norden.farm

One cold winter’s night Percy finds his little friends shivering on the doorstep – they need more than food and he must find a way to help them…

30 Nov – 31 Dec

A Christmas Carol

Reading Rep Theatre, King’s Road, Reading RG1 4LY, readingrep.com

Your favourite characters are back, bringing festive wonder to the cobbled streets of Reading. Charles Dickens’ seminal story told with nostalgia and charm, the perfect Christmas treat. £5-£19.50

1-4 Dec

21 – 26 Nov

Matilda Jnr. Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk

Rebellion is nigh in Matilda JR., a gleefully witty ode to the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination! From £14

25 Nov–31 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk Corn Exchange Newbury, Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, cornexchangenew.com

When Jack sells the beloved family cow for some magic beans, a beanstalk-climbing adventure ensues.

25 Nov–31 Dec

Jack and the Beanstalk South Hill Park, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, southhillpark.org.uk

Follow country-living Jack on this hilarious, fee-fi-fo-fun-filled adventure as they sell the family cow for a handful of magic beans and climb the towering beanstalk.

26 Nov

Grand Re-opening

Nature Discovery Centre, Muddy Lane, Lower Way, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, bbowt.org.uk/events

The Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham is having an exciting renovation!

26 Nov

Festive Clay Decoration Making

The Base, Greenham Business Park, Greenham, RG19 6AB, thebasegreenham.co.uk

Join our resident artist Cáit Gould to make your own hanging ornamental decorations from clay. £10 per child

10am/1:30pm

26 Nov

Glow Walk

Dinton Pastures, Davis Street, Hurst, Wokingham, RG10 0TH, firstdays.net/events

Walk around Black Swan Lake under starlight and take in the illuminated woodland and various light features. Slots from 5pm–8pm

26 and 27 Nov, 3 and 4 Dec

Lantern Making Workshop

101 Outdoor Arts Creation Space, Greenham Business Park, Newbury, RG19 6HN, 101outdoorarts.com

Come to 101 Outdoor Arts and create a traditional pyramid lantern out of willow and paper or a design of your choice ready to carry in our Festival of Light procession. Free entry.

10am/1pm/4pm

26 Nov – 24 Dec

The Most Magical Christmas Adventure

4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Newbury Road, Headley, RG19 8JY, themagicalchristmasadventure. co.uk

Join us at 4 Kingdoms for our new Magical Christmas Adventure and joyous Festive Show!

26 Nov – 5 Jan

Together for Christmas Greys Court, Henley-on-Thames RG9 4PG, nationaltrust.org.uk/ greys-court

Children can scamper along the Woodland Animals Trail to work up an appetite for the tea room, stocked full of treats and festooned with garlands created by Kidmore End schoolchildren.

26 Nov – 17 Mar

Winter Family Activity Park

The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX, merl.reading.ac.uk

For families with children aged 5+, this pack includes a selection of crafts, recipes from our library collections to try at home, a gallery trail, colouring, a themed story and more! £4

27 Nov

Newbury’s Santa Fun Run Market Place, Newbury, visitnewbury.org.uk Choose either a 5km or 1km route. check in from 9am. 10:30am

27 Nov

Thatcham Litter Pick Small park opposite Waitrose, 48-53 The Broadway Thatcham Berkshire RG19 3HN, slmthatchamnewbury.co.uk All welcome, and we provide all the equipment you need and take away the litter and recycling. 10am–11am

27 Nov

Wokingham Winter Carnival Wokingham town centre, wintercarnival.co.uk

There’s a whole host of street entertainers, music, singing, dancing and the fun of the fair with loads of different rides, whether you’re young or old.

27 Nov

The Nutcracker Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk

The Let’s All Dance Ballet Company presents their family festive favourite, the perfect Christmas treat for all! From £13.50. 1pm/3pm

CATS present “The Sleeping Beauty”

Crowthorne Parish Hall, RG45 7BW, ticketsource.co.uk/ CrowthorneCATS

Expect comic mayhem and belly laughs a-plenty, as - once againCATS conjures up the magical world of pantomime, with great songs, stunning sets, lavish costumes and lots and lots of SHOUTING!

2 and 23 Dec

Festive Bach to Baby Family Concert

Reading Minster, RG1 2HX, whatsonreading.com

Grab your family, harness up your fastest reindeer and enjoy a Bach to Baby concert. £15 per adult, up to 2 children FREE! 11am

3 Dec

A Visit from the Snow Sisters West Berkshire Museum, Newbury, RG14 5AS, westberkshireheritage. org/west-berkshire-museum

Join us for a festive visit from the Snow Sisters who will entertain young audiences with a fun sing-along, themed games and magical story time! £7 per child. 10:30am/ 11:30am/1pm

3 Dec

Christmas Laser Lights Show Wildmoor Heath School, Crowthorne, RG45 7HD, ticketsource.co.uk/wildmoorheath-pta/christmas-laser-lightshow

A Christmas evening, with Santa, craft stalls, live performance from our singer, the promise of snow with our snow machine, ending with a spectacular laser light show. £3/£10 family of 4. 6pm

3 Dec–2 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk

The Hexagon, Reading, RG1 7UA, whatsonreading.com

Come and join us at The Hexagon for a panto of GIANT proportions with the fabulous Jack and the Beanstalk - starring children’s television megastar Justin Fletcher as Gil Trott and the hilarious, award-winning Paul Morse as Nanny Hydrangea Trott. Tickets from £14

4 Dec

Reading Children’s Book Group Fourbears Books, Caversham, Reading, RG4 8JG

Festive fun with book present recommendations, seasonal games and stories. Ages 5-8. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Free but pre-book by 4pm on Sat 3 Dec via 0118 948 1747 or info@ fourbearsbooks.uk 10am-11am

4 Dec

Children’s Magic Show

Shaw House, Newbury, RG14 2DR, westberkshireheritage.org/shawhouse

Featuring Mr Muddle the charming, if muddlesome magician, who captivates and amazes children with his comical slapstick magic and laugh-out-loud antics with wands and balloons! £7 per child. 12pm/ 1:30pm/3pm

4 Dec

Beauty and the Beast

Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk

Join Ballet Theatre UK with one of the most enchanting love stories of all time. 2pm/6pm

7-10 Dec

Life is a Dream Progress Theatre, Reading, RG1 5HL, progresstheatre.co.uk

The King plans to step down from the throne and everyone expects him to name either his niece or nephew as heir. Segismund, true heir to the throne, lies locked in a tower dreaming of escape. 7:45pm

8-10 Dec

Half Moon present GLISTEN South Street Arts Centre, Reading, RG1 4QU, whatsonreading.com Glisten is an interactive performance for babies aged 0-18 months and their grown-ups. £15 for adult with baby. 11am/1pm/2:30pm

10 Dec

Children’s Christmas Printmaking

The Base, Greenham Business Park, Greenham, RG19 6AB, thebasegreenham.co.uk

A fun-packed festive workshop, creating Christmas cards and decorations for children with Charlotte Adcock. £20. 10am

10 Dec

Make your Own Christmas Baubles – 3 ways!

Creativ.Spaces, Marsack Street, Caversham, Reading, RG4 5AF

You will learn different decorating techniques to create 3 different bauble styles of your choice; filled, painted, terrazzo, marbling and gold leaf. £25. 11am–12:30pm

10 Dec

The Carnival of the Animals –Lantern Parade

Maidenhead town centre, Norden.farm

The Parade is a celebration of community and the arts and encourages local people to get together, creating fantastic artworks, dancing and parading their fabulous creations through Maidenhead town centre. Free. 4:30pm–6:15pm

10–29 Dec

Aladdin

Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk

With heaps of audience participation, dazzling costumes, spectacular sets, and magical special effects, this year’s offering promises to be out of this world. From £12

11 Dec

Festival of Light

From Newbury Methodist Church, Newbury, RG14 1AN, visitnewbury. org.uk/events/festival-oflight-2022

Starting on Northbrook Street, the twinkling wonderland will travel

through to the Market Place, where live music and a festive atmosphere will be waiting under the illuminated sky. 4pm

11 Dec

Jingle Bell Jog

Emmbrook Junior School, Wokingham, RG41 1JR, emmbrookjuniorschool.co.uk

A festive 2km jog, run or walk. After, there is fun to be had at Santa’s Grotto, the craft stall, cake stall, refreshment stall, bottle tombola and chocolate tombola. 10:30am

12 and 15 Dec

Nature Tots

Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, bbowt.org.

uk/events

Join our friendly Nature Tots staff and volunteers to explore the nature reserve and enjoy wildlife-themed activities suitable for children aged 18 months to 4 years (accompanied by an adult who is able to encourage and help them). £7 per child (adults free). 10am–11:30am

15 Dec

Morgan and West’s Great Big Christmas Magic Show

Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk

Time-travelling magicians Morgan & West crash into Christmas with a show full of fabulous family fun, festive frolics and fantastic facial furniture! 6pm

16-18 Dec

Beauty and the Beast

Arlington Arts Centre, Snelsmore Common, Newbury, RG14 3BQ, Arlington-arts.com

Inspired by the original tale, this production tells the story of Belle, a beautiful and intelligent young woman who feels out of place in her provincial French village. From £15

17 Dec

Creative Mindfulness for Children Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF, Norden.farm

Creative activities, art, sound, stories, meditations, visualisations and discussion. £10. 4-7 years: 11am, 8-11 years: 12pm

19 Dec

Crafty Kids at Christmas – Santa’s Workshop

Creativ.Spaces, 2B Southview Park, Marsack Street, Caversham, Reading, RG4 5AF

How about 2 hours of guilt free peace for you to use as you wish and catch up on Christmas shopping or wrapping, while the children have some festive arty fun? £20. 10am–12pm

20 Dec

Midwinter Revels Shaw House, Newbury, RG14 2DR, westberkshireheritage.org/shawhouse

Spanning several centuries, GreenMatthews’ Midwinter Revels is a celebration of Yuletide Past guaranteed to warm the cockles of the most Scrooge-like heart. Suitable for ages 8+. Adults £12, children £5. 7pm

21 Dec

Crafty Kids at Christmas – Biscuits! Creativ.Spaces, Marsack Street, Caversham, Reading, RG4 5AF

After the success of our summer biscuit decorating workshop, join our Master Maker Anna again for more

biscuit decorating fun but this time with a Christmas twist. £20. 10am–12pm

21 Dec

Messy Museum Morning West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, westberkshireheritage.org/westberkshire-museum

Deck the Halls! – decorate a Christmas ceramic hanging ornament (assorted designs – one issued at random) with paint, and take it home to place on your tree or elsewhere. £2.50. 10am/1pm

21 Dec

Christmas LEGO Workshop

The Heights Primary School, Caversham, Reading, RG4 7LB, masterbuildersclub.com

Join Master Builders Club for two hours of festive brick building play. 2pm–4pm

21 Dec

Magical Lights

The Museum of English Rural Life, Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5EX, merl.reading.ac.uk

Explore the magic of light in the MERL garden and enjoy a host of craft activities inspired by light and the MERL gardens and collections. £4.50 4:30pm–6:30pm

22 Dec

Movie in the Hall: Arthur Christmas

Shaw House, Newbury, RG14 2DR, westberkshireheritage.org/shawhouse

Santa’s clumsy son Arthur sets out on a mission with Grandsanta to give out a present they misplaced to a young girl in less than two hours. Adults £5, children £3. 10am

22 Dec

Christmas LEGO Workshop

Badgemore Primary School, Hop Gardens, Henley-on-Thames, RG9 2HL, masterbuildersclub.com

A huge snowstorm has fallen and Santa needs the help of our Master Builders to get the presents delivered to Bricksville. 9:30–11:30am

22 Dec

Christmas LEGO Workshop

Dorchester-on-Thames Village Hall, Wallingford, OX10 7JG, masterbuildersclub.com

Sign up your LEGO fan now and help us save Christmas in Bricksville. 2:30–4:30pm

23 Dec

Crafty Kids at Christmas –Elftastic!

Creativ.Spaces, Caversham, Reading, RG4 5AF

Our 2 hour arts and crafts sessions are great fun for all children. £20 10am–12pm

23 Dec

Christmas LEGO Workshop

Woodcote Village Hall, Reading Road, Woodcote, RG8 0QY, masterbuildersclub.com

Join Master Builders Club for two hours of festive brick building play. 9:30–11:30am

31 Dec–3 Jan

Sleeping Beauty

Kenton Theatre, Henley-onThames, RG9 2BP, kentontheatre.co.uk

The script is a treat for all ages, with a good dose of comedy and music from a lively, enthusiastic group of local children.

Family Pass4 tickets from£40 - £80available until17 December

Friday 18 November to Sunday 1 January

Tickets from £12

The Watermill Theatre & Restaurant, Bagnor, Newbury RG20 8AE

Principal Sponsor

Bracknell favourite Michael Ayiotis

Paul Toulson

As Dame Trott