Parent Talk October 2018 issue by Parent Talk

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Clubs & Classes Schools Events Reviews Essential reading for parents and grandparents in Somerset

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October 2018 Volume 25 Issue 8

a family ticket for Brean Splash and Brean Play

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WRITTEN & DIRECTED BY

STEVE ETERN’SNFAEVOTURTITE B XE

PANTO DAME

MON 3 DEC 2018 – SUN 6 JAN 2019 Box Office: 01392 72 63 63 www.exeternorthcott.co.uk Registered Charity No. 1151620

Photo: Matt Austin

FAMILY PAGES

Parent talk Jack and the Beanstalk Get ready for the climb of your life this Christmas, as Exeter Northcott Theatre presents a GIANT of a family pantomime.

contents Family pages

p2-3

Out and About

p4-5

Events

Out and About

Book Bag

p8-9

Education, information

p10-13

Book Review

p14-15

competition Brean Splash and Brean Play

p11

Dear Readers...

Welcome back and I hope you have all adjusted to the new school routine. Can you believe that we’re already talking about Halloween, as if to underline that summer is well and truly behind us, despite some wonderful late autumn days. For those of you who want to get really spooked, there’s plenty happening so read on to discover all the ghost trails and creepy crawlies. If, however, you would rather keep things low key, take a look at our Book Bag pages and our gentler Halloween activities! On that theme, my editor’s choice this month includes plenty of exciting titles involving spells, monsters and trick-or-treating, as well as some really useful guides for teenagers and mums. Best wishes and happy reading. Tamsin (editor)

Following on from 2017’s ‘Simply Genius’ (Devon Live), smash-hit production of Dick Whittington, Devon’s favourite dame Steve Bennett is back again with a HUGE adventure that’s perfect for the whole family! Ruled over by a terrifying Giant who lives in a castle high up in the clouds, the Trott family are down on their luck and need to make money…and fast! So Dame Trott sends her poor son Jack to market to sell their beloved cow ‘Daisy’, but when she learns that he’s exchanged the cow for a few measly beans, she’s furious and throws them out into the garden to rot. Little does she know that those beans are magical, and when

the family awake next morning they find a great beanstalk soaring high into the sky. Being an adventurous lad, Jack vows to climb the beanstalk and face their Fi, Fi Foe. Will Jack make his fortune? Will he make his Mum proud of him again? And will the family ever be reunited with poor Daisy? Find out by joining us for the greatest panto there has ever bean! Expect plenty of audience participation, live music and laughs galore. Fee Fi Fo Fum… it’s panto fun for everyone! Jack and the Beanstalk is on at Exeter Northcott Theatre from Mon 3 December 2018 until Sunday 6 January 2019. Family tickets start from just

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are fantastic rates for schools and groups.

Farrington's prepare for bumper fun at annual Pumpkin Festival an anti-bullying message to children. After Halloween night, on Thursday 1st and Friday 2nd November, it is the turn of the Pumpkin Smash! For £3, visitors get the chance to squish and splatter all the remaining

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£24 for 3 (with up to 3 more tickets at £8 each), and there

Book your tickets on: 01392 72 63 63 or visit www.exeternorthcott.co.uk

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Steve Bennett as Dame Trott with Daisy

pumpkins not suitable for carving, with summer fetestyle games, competitions and tractor smash demos. From a farming perspective this will also help the fields to recover faster – think of it as extreme composting!

For full details of the event, visit www.farringtons.co.uk or like the event on Facebook.

and facebook

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Parent Talk

Newtons, Churchstanton, Taunton TA3 7QF T: 01823 601086 E: sales@parenttalk.org.uk Disclaimer: The editorial and advertising content of this publication does not imply endorsement of them by Parent Talk. Nor can Parent Talk be held responsible for any actions or consequences arising from contact between reader and advertiser. Readers are therefore advised to check carefully, any references, professional qualifications and stated membership of professional bodies before entering into contracts or making arrangements to use a service featured herein.

Editor Tamsin Humphreys Advertising Juliet Barber Production Sarah Harmer Christmas Issue deadline 24th October 2018 To guarantee receiving your copy of Parent Talk every month why not take out a subscription for just £17 a year and it will be sent to your door?

competition winners Brik Buster Rachel Trott, Langport J Hayhurst, North Petherton Matthew Constance, Chard Katie Barnes, Bridport

Vivary Park Ian Smith, Street Amanada Golledge, South Petherton

This year, the Spookley Pumpkin Festival and the Great Pumpkin Smash is expected to be the best yet for visitors to the farm shop, café and shopping village in Farrington Gurney. The pumpkin field will be open 10am-4pm daily on the two weekends before halfterm (13th-14th & 20th-21st October) and during the halfterm week from Saturday 27th October until Friday 2nd November. The last two days of the festival will also see the introduction of The Great Pumpkin Smash! In preparation for this year’s event, Andy Jeffery, owner and farmer at Farrington’s has planted 50,000 pumpkin seeds across almost 7 acres for the public to wander amongst and pick.

From ghoulish green and ghostly white, to gnarly skins and the traditional orange pumpkin, there will be all-sorts for the public to choose from when gates open to the public on the 13th October. On top of the joy of searching for the perfect pumpkin, many also enjoy visiting the pumpkin patch so that youngsters can see how pumpkins, like other vegetables, grow. On top of visiting the pumpkin patch, children can enjoy a range of activities for just £3, including carving kit, a tractor-trailer ride (weather dependent) and to also hear the story of Spookley the Square Pumpkin at story time and movie time. The tale of Spookley, after which the festival is named, is at the core of the event and offers Parent Talk October 2018 3

OUT & ABOUT

Halloween Fun comes to The Walled Gardens of Cannington

Halloween Horrors at Paignton Zoo

Bridgwater & Taunton College’s The Walled Gardens of Cannington will be opening its gates once again for its annual Halloween fun, from Saturday 27 – Wednesday 31 October, 10am – 4pm each day. Last year’s activities saw hundreds of children and their accompanying adults attend The Walled Gardens, following the pumpkin trail, carving creative pumpkin designs, having their faces painted and enjoying the freedom of the Gardens. This year the event, where fancy dress is strongly encouraged, is sure to be as popular as ever, so it is worth buying your tickets in advance to ensure you don’t miss out! Children and adults alike will be in for a treat as they explore the Gardens, surrounded by the suitably spooky medieval priory. Many ghostly stories have been shared throughout the years. It is said that a network of tunnels

When it comes to Halloween events, some places have a distinct advantage. Paignton Zoo is, in the nicest possible way, full of real live scary monsters. So you can take your little monsters to see Paignton Zoo’s sometimes rather bigger monsters this half term. The Halloween Horrors event, which is supported by Marshfield Farm, runs from Saturday 20th October to Wednesday 31st October. The event includes a Wicked Reptile trail – and that’s wicked as in amazing rather than evil, because reptiles ARE amazing and the Zoo, a registered conservation and education

exist beneath the Gardens, leading to various spots in the village so that the nuns and nearby monks could meet in secret, and sightings of ghostly nuns have been reported! Tickets to the Halloween activities cost £6 per child in advance and £7 on the gate on the day. One adult has free admission with one child

ticket purchased. Any other accompanying adults pay the general admission price. The child ticket provides entry to the Gardens, a pumpkin, drink and treat. Please note that pumpkins are guaranteed to advance ticket holders, and only whilst stocks last to those bought on the gate. Face painting will have a small additional cost.

Tickets can be purchased from the Walled Gardens’ Gift Shop or by contacting 01278 655042, emailing walledgardens@btc.ac.uk or via the website www.canningtonwalledgardens.co.uk

charity, is the place to find that out first-hand. Paignton Zoo is a place of discovery and adventure, yes – but it’s also a great spot for a bit of seasonal fun, of course, so as and when you sign up to and follow the Wicked Reptile trail (it only costs £1.50 per sheet, available while stocks last), you’ll receive a great prize AND a Komodo dragon mask. When you’ve completed the trail, you can ride the ghost train – and you should make a point of visiting female Komodo dragon Khaleesi in Crocodile Swamp (which, as the name suggests, is not short of a few fabulous monsters). Listen out

for the special spooky animal talks during the week – there’ll be one about that awesome Komodo dragon each day at 3:30pm. So, be brave this half term and plunge into Paignton’s zoological spooktacular! Standard Paignton Zoo admission prices apply.

Halloween on the High Ropes Be prepared to be spooked! Sometimes it’s good to get a little scared….. The staff at the Vivary Adventure Centre go to town on Halloween when their laughs turn into cackles ‘Double, double toil & trouble, fire burn & cauldron bubble’ The course will be lit by the moon and decorated with spooky pumpkins making things very eerie, perhaps you’ll catch a glimpse of some haunting figures lurking around the course or is it your eyes playing tricks… Come and join us at the Vivary High Ropes in Vivary Park for our Halloween High Ropes activities; there’s something for every thrill seeker.

Will you venture out onto the Low Ropes course or dare to step off the 9m platform into the dark unknown during our Spooktacular Family Fun Wednesday 31st October. Can you complete the High Ropes in the dark? Listen out to the haunting screams and watch out for the zombies lurking around the obstacles; be careful that they don’t try and trip you up - Haunted High Ropes - Tuesday 30th October and Wednesday 31st October. “I have never screamed so much” Rhys aged 10yrs, “I thought it was a dummy, until it moved its arms! I’ve never been so scared” Zach aged 8, “I loved the feeling of not knowing what

Calling all thrill seekers! The Vivary Adventure Camps are packed with fun, adrenaline filled activities for 8-14yr olds. Call us on 01823 217117

was coming next” Helen aged 14, “I was scared for my son and I was only watching” Sue Halloween Adventure Camps Calling all thrill seekers! Our Adventure Camps are packed with fun, adrenaline filled activities which will ensure that your 8-14 year olds will have a day that they won’t forget! Our camps run from 8.30am5.30pm, perfect for working parents. Early booking is advised on all our activities as they sell out quickly. For further information about the Halloween High Ropes please call the site on 01823 217117 or email jenny.white@ gll.org www.better.org.uk/vivaryadventure-centre

HALLOWEEN ACTIVITIES Sat 27 - Wed 31 Oct, 10am - 4pm Explore the Gardens, go on a trail, find a pumpkin, in amongst the snails! For tickets and more information visit our website.

CHILDREN’S TICKETS:

£6 in advance, £7 on the gate (includes drink, treat and pumpkin*) *Pumpkin guaranteed to advance ticket holders only. One free adult ticket per paying child. Normal entry fee applies for additional adults.

4 Parent Talk October 2018

01278 655042 www.canningtonwalledgardens.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Halloween at Puxton Park

Hubble bubble toil and trouble, there’s lots of spoooooooky goings on for children this October half term at Puxton Park! With Halloween approaching, from 29th October, we have our schedule full of spooky and hair-raising activities to keep you on your toes all week long! Come by and be amazed by the magically hilarious Adam Allsortz Show on Monday, 29th. Mingle with ghosts, goblins and monsters at our spooky fancy dress disco on Tuesday, 30th. On the day of Halloween, the 31st, who else would be invited other than Crocodiles of the world! If you want to laugh your socks off, visit Puxton Park on Thursday, 1st November for

the hilariously silly Nutty Noah Show. On Friday, 2nd we’ve got guests with lots of legs and eyes for Puxton Animal Team’s Creepy Critters display… come and meet the creepy critters if you dare! Throughout the week witches will be in attendance with spooky, yummy treats for everyone to enjoy! There will also be FREE pumpkin painting for all of our visitors to enjoy. During this week, there will be a golden pumpkin hidden in various areas of the park. Figure out the riddle by following the clues and you’ll win a spooky spectacular prize! During all of these events, you’ll have full access to all of the park’s amazing attractions.

October half term Creepy Halloween Fun at The Toy Barn at The Museum of Somerset Visit The Museum of Somerset for dino-fun, puzzles and spooky surprises this October half term. October half term gets off to a roaring start with Dino Day on Sunday 28. From 10.00am to 5.00pm there will be dinosaurrelated activities and games. Make your own dinosaur skeleton, fish for sea dragons and feed the dinosaurs! Entry is £3 per person or £10 for families. During October half term, from Monday 29 October to Friday 3 November, the Museum will run Mystery Trails offering perplexing puzzles and

mystifying mind-benders for children and families. Trails cost £1 per child or there is a special family back pack trail at £5 per family. The Museum will be open for Halloween on the spookiest night of the year, Wednesday 31 October, from 5.30pm to 8.00pm. There will be eerie family crafts and activities and Halloween-themed treats in the café. Visitors can dress up if they dare! Entry is £3 per person or £10 for families. See museumofsomerset.org.uk for more information.

Visit The Toy Barn this half term (20 -27 October) and come and explore the Giant Spooky Maize Maze. You will need to choose your path wisely to reach the centre of the maze or face retracing your steps… There will be a spooky trail to follow and children will be rewarded with a goody bag when they have finished. They will also be able to enjoy the play area with swings, climbing frames and trampolines and race around the pedal-powered go-kart track. On the 27th October, children and adults alike will be in for a treat at our special Creepy Halloween Fun day. If you are brave enough, get up close and personal with snakes, lizards, spiders and scorpions presented by The Reptile Ranch. There will be pumpkin carving with a free pumpkin for each ticket holder and a colouring in competition. Doodles pop up cafe will be serving hot drinks, cakes and treats. Face painting will be available at an additional

cost. And of course, you will be able to go around the Spooky Maize Maze! Please note that pumpkins and carving kits are guaranteed to advance ticket holders only and whilst stock last to those who buy tickets at the door on the day. The Toy Barn is a marvelous toy shop based on a working farm situated on the A30 just outside of Sherborne. For ticket information please visit the website toy-barn.co.uk or call 01935 815040 or follow Toy barn Dorset on social media.

Creepy Halloween Fun at The Toy Barn Saturday 27 OctOber

• The Reptile Ranch • Face Painting • Doodles Cafe Pumpkin Carving • Spooky Halloween Maize Maze and other creepy surprises... The

Toy Barn

Visit http://www.puxton.co.uk or call 01934 523500 for more info.

Tickets:

01935 815040 toy-barn.co.uk Blackmarsh Farm, Sherborne DT9 4JX

Sunday 28 October 10.00 am - 5.00 pm Dinosaur activities, Crafts, stories & dressing up!

wednesday 31 October 5.30 pm - 8.00 pm Explore the museum on the spookiest night of the year!

Events £3 pp / £10 family ticket

Visit museumofsomerset.org.uk for details 01823 255088 Taunton Castle, TA1 4AA

Charity No. 1158791

Parent Talk October 2018 5

6 Parent Talk December 2012 6 Parent Talk December 2012

Parent talk events

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. M A R K E T S . T H E AT R E S . FA I R S . F E T E S . S H O W S . E X H I B I T I O N S .

6th October: There was an old lady who swalled a fly. Tacchi-Morris Arts Centre, TA2 8PD. A feast of sing along songs, colourful animal characters and heart warming family fun. 2.30pm. 01823 414141 7th October: FREE Family Fun Day to celebrate Black History Month. Red Brick Building, Glastonbury, BA6 9FT. To celebrate Black History month, Somerset Multicultural Association host their family fun day. The day itself is set to be fun filled, with performances from the esteemed African Caribbean Theatre Company Tangle who will be performing a piece called Water Bread Salt, as well as music of black origin from local schools, Bath based Hip Hop duo Benji & Hibbz and local Millfield alumni Oska Zaky. Educational talks and kids craft sessions as well as an African dance workshop and performance. My Caribbean Corner will be running a food stall for the day providing some sumptuous Caribbean cuisine. 12 noon to 5pm. 01458 899564 11th October: Coppélia presented by Vienna Festival Ballet. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare, BS23 1HP. A lively production, infused with old world charm, Coppélia appeals to audiences of all ages with its captivating story of an

eccentric toymaker and his beloved doll. 7.30pm. 01934 645544 9th-13th October: Madagascar The Musical. Bristol Hippodrome, BS1 4UZ. The smash hit musical features all of your favourite crack-alackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. 7.30pm daily with matinée performances on Wed and Sat and 11am performance on Thurs. 0844 871 3012 13th October: The Glastonbury Autumn Craft Fair. Glastonbury Town Hall, Glastonbury BA6 9EL. Home made crafts and Christmas gifts for sale. 14th October: The Wells Food Festival, Market Place, Wells, BA5 2RB. Family friendly, one day festival – free to enter. Celebrate Somerset’s wonderful local produce, with the area’s best artisan food and drink producers. The Festival will have a mix of stalls in the Market Place and the Town Hall, at the Bishop’s Palace, along the Moat and in the Recreation Ground. 10am-4.30pm. 17th-18th October: Little Baby Bum Live. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare, BS23 1HP. Step into the magical and colourful world of Little Baby Bum. Join

West Somerset Railway

AUTUMN ACTIVITIES

There is so much fun to be had on the West Somerset Railway this Autumn. In October, we will be running on most days, with a special timetable running on some Mondays and Fridays. October Half Term Halloween Witches and Wizards Trail Murder Mystery Events 20th October 1st December

WWW.WEST-SOMERSET-RAILWAY.CO.UK info@wsrail.net or 01643 704996 6 Parent Talk October 2018

Mia, Jacus, Twinkle and their Nursery Rhyme friends at the world premiere of a brand new live show. Wed: 12 noon, Thurs: 10.30am and 2pm. 01934 645544 20th-28th October: Week of the Dead Fiesta. The American Museum, Bath BA2 7BD. Celebrate the Day of the Dead all week with activities, and journey around the gardens with the ancestors, on a fun family trail. 10am-5pm. 01225 460503 20th October – 4th November: Halloween trail: The Dunster Castle School of Magic. Dunster Castle, Dunster TA24 6SL. Follow the trail around the grounds to solve the tests and claim your prize at the end. 01643 821314 20th October – 4th November: Halloween at Wookey Hole, Wells, BA5 1BB. Spooky fun throughout half term. 01749 6672243 24th-27th October: CATS presented by Weston Operatic Society. The Playhouse, Weston super Mare, BS23 1HP. 7.30pm and matinée performance on Sat. 01934 645544 25th October: Beauty and the Beast presented by Ballet Theatre UK. Regal Theatre, Minehead, TA24 5UQ. Set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious music this spectacular production features new choreography by Artistic Director, Christopher Moore, with new sets and costumes to reawaken the magic of the world’s favourite fairy tale. 7.30pm. 01643 706430 27th October: Firework Displays at Brean Theme Park, Brean, TA8 2QY. Discounted wristbands to theme park after 4pm followed by FREE fireworks displays. 01278 751517 27th-28th October: Gothic Falconry at Dunster Castle, Dunster TA24 6SL. Visit the

Hawk House where a variety of hawks, owls and falcons can be seen at roost, chat to the period-costumed falconers and meet Bella the working dog. 11am-4pm. 01643 821314 27th – 31st October: Halloween Activities at The Walled Gardens of Cannington, TA5 2HA. Explore the gardens, go on a trail, find a pumpkin in amongst the snails! 10am-4pm. 01278 655042. See p4 for details. 27th October – 4th November: The Great Golden Pumpkin Hunt. Hestercombe House & Gardens, Cheddon Fitzpaine, Taunton TA2 8LG. See p7 for details. 01823 413923 29th October – 2nd November: Family Activities Week. The David Hall, South Petherton, TA13 5AA. Family Activities Week will offer parents and children aged 8 to 14 a series of workshops, including design and make, vocal harmony sessions, dance and drama tuition and an aerial workshop. 01460 240340 29th October: The Little Turnip. The Brewhouse Theatre, Taunton, TA1 1JL. Living in their tiny shed amongst the garden tools, Mr and Mrs Chickweed’s prizewinning vegetables have taken over everything! 1.30pm 01823 283244 29th October-2nd November: Dunster Castle Creepy critters with Exmoor Zoo. Dunster Castle, Dunster TA24 6SL. 11am-4pm. 01643 706430 31st October: The Tale of the Cockatrice presented by Mumblecrust Theatre. Bruton Club, BA10 0HG. 2pm. Deep in the vaults of an ancient priory a hideous creature awakens. A deadly cockatrice is born! Bold knights flee in terror… can a humble nun defeat the beast? Two inter-dimensional storytellers, trapped in an

opportunity to show off your spooky side! Dress up and celebrate Halloween then parade around the sundial on the south lawn. Spooky treats for the best costumes! 10.30am-4.30pm. 01460 241938

empty void of forgetfulness, recount the legend of this evil creature, set in the village of Wherwell. 07473 864413 31st October: Spooks Parade. Barrington Court, Barrington TA19 0NQ An

Bodley Craft Holiday Dates

Friday 26th October Tuesday 30th October Thursday 1st November Holiday Club days run from 9am-5pm and are packed full of crafty projects and activities, indoor and outdoor fun, games, quizzes and LOADS more -

seasonally themed with the time of year! £25 per day. PLUS we now offer an early drop-off/late collection service from 8.30am-5.30pm for busy parents for an additional £5 per child – simply tell us when booking 07525 127878.

Holiday Clubs, Parties and Adult Workshops Craft Studio fabulous craft Having a Birthday? Bodley Craft Parties.ANo Stress, No Mess.

studio, minutes from

Children’s party: Tell us your theme; pirate, princess, cute animals, scary monsters, or a favourite colour! We theme the day to suit you. Any age or ability! £15 per head to include craft, party game, party meal and goody bags!

Wellington Easter Holiday Club town with for 8-12 year olds ample parking Tuesday 31st March Wednesday 1st April Thursday 2nd April Fun packed days run from 9am-5pm £25 per day – discounts available Contact Sam for more information and to book

Holiday Clubs for 6+

Birthday Parties for any age

Various Workshops throughout the year

For more information Leave

Bodley Craft: and 07525 to127878 book contact: the sjr1509@yahoo.co.uk sam@bodleycraft.co.uk party or follow us on Facebook to us! or www.bodleycraft.co.uk

Spooky family fun with West Somerset Railway With children back at school, the days getting shorter and Christmas seemingly ages away, why not join the West Somerset Railway this October Half Term for some spooky family fun! Throughout Half Term, the railway will be resident to themed witches and wizard trail, which can be carried out whilst travelling on the train between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead. Our railway begins in the village of Bishops Lydeard situated just a few miles from Taunton, which is the County Town of Somerset. Our

railway meanders through the Quantock Hills and terminates at the seaside town of Minehead with nine idyllic stations along the way, each maintained and restored by our loving volunteers. With points of interest such as the harbour town of Watchet, the medieval village of Dunster and so much more we are a wonderful place to visit. In the latter part of the year we have our extremely popular Santa Special event, where travel by steam and the magic of Christmas are combined to create an amazing experience for all.

For more information about the railway and what we have to offer, please visit our website

www.west-somerset-railway. co.uk or contact us on 01643 704996

OUT & ABOUT FAMILY

Hassle free parties If you are looking for a party that is really different, exciting, great fun and hassle free then look no further than Go-Kart Party. Nathan and his team offer both boys and girls of 4 -10 years a unique opportunity to race battery powered gokarts around an inflatable mini Grand Prix circuit. The parties are fully hosted and structured and fun games such as cops and robbers, cone dodging, reversing and emergency stopping will give the children an experience they will never forget. Kart speeds and games are tailored to the age and ability

of the children so whether they are aged 4 or 10 the kids will have an amazing time and will feel a real sense of achievement when they pick up their certificate and possibly

Call Nathan on: 07703 719 402

www.gokartpartysw.co.uk nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk facebook.com/GoKartPartySW TA postcodes only

the Go-Kart Party Best Driver trophy at the end of the party! Available indoors in numerous leisure centres and sports halls across Somerset, or even outside at your home, Go-Kart Party is accessible all year round at a venue near you. You can check out the fantastic feedback Nathan receives from parents on www.facebook.com/ GoKartPartySW and for more information contact Nathan on 07703 719 402, nathan@go-kartparty.co.uk or visit www.gokartpartysw.co.uk

Five things kids will love this autumn With the autumn term in full flow, we’re already thinking about how to occupy our little ones during the October holidays. Here at Hestercombe Gardens we’ve put together our Top Five activities to help the whole family embrace the outdoors! 1) Make Leaf Prints Go on a nature hunt and collect leaves to make wild leaf prints: ‘process art’ is all about the experience of creating and helps children learn how to express themselves. 2) Test your senses We can all benefit from stopping to take in our surroundings from time to time. Go outside and ask your kids to describe what they can see, hear, touch and smell – it’s great for language development. 3) Go on an autumn trail In the UK we’re lucky to have such an array of changing colours in our trees (and as trees lose their leaves and bare their branches, they’re practically begging to be climbed). 4) Conker matches No matter what age you are,

everyone loves a good conker match, and there are all sorts of theories behind what makes the winning conkers. 5) Halloween Whether you’re a fan of ghosts or not, Halloween provides bucketloads of ideas to get creative, from carving pumpkins to spooky costume

making and decoration. This autumn bring your family to Hestercombe for the Great Golden Pumpkin Hunt: make your own wand to help Willow the Witch find the Magical Golden Pumpkin (27 Oct – 4 Nov, £2 per child + normal admission). Find out more at hestercombe.com

Parent Talk October 2018 7

welcome to your NEWS n EWS sectio Nbringing you competitions, job tasters, boredom busters, interesting facts and everything topical...

Book Bag

Cheesy Brain Biscuits

These delicious savoury biscuits are a great snack for picnics, lunchboxes or children’s parties. They are also easy so get the kids to make them! This Recipe should make at least 12 biscuits

Ingredients

100g grated cheese (a mixture of cheddar and red Leicester) plus extra for decoration 100g plain flour Pinch of salt 100g of soft butter Cayenne pepper (a pinch) Mixed herbs (a pinch) ¼ of a red pepper, diced into tiny chunks

Method

 Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix with a knife  When the mixture forms a soft dough roll into balls the size of walnuts  Place on a baking sheet and slightly flatten them with your hands. Top with a small amount of grated cheese.  Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in an oven of 180’c Katy Harris is a Chef and Food Writer. For more family recipes please visit her Facebook page "Slummy Mummy's Kitchen"

Why did the vampires cancel the baseball game? Because they couldn’t find their bats.

Why do witches use brooms? Because vacuum cleaners are far too heavy!

What do ghosts serve for dessert? I scream!

What did the mummy say to the detective? Let’s wrap this case up.

What happened when the young witch misbehaved? She was sent to her broom.

for answers to our puzzles visit www.parenttalk.org.co.uk

Where does Dracula keep his valuables? In a blood bank.

Halloween tongue twisters Plump pigs pick pumpkins Smart spiders spin silk

N WI

Book Bag NEWS

✸

Win a ticket for Brean Splash and Brean Play Brean Play and Splash are located on the Coast Road at Brean Sands in Somerset offering award winning, all weather facilities for families with children from birth into teens. Brean Play is an innovative indoor soft play centre which features distinct areas split into age groups, from 0 to toddlers and children from 4 to 11 (max height 148cm) with modern, state of the art and stimulating, sensory and interactive play equipment all designed in a safe and colourful environment. It hosts a large, bright and airy café, with free wi-fi, serving Starbucks Coffee and a wide range of tasty hot and cold meals and drinks.

✸

Splash offers a traditional 25m pool, a bespoke baby and toddler pool, shallow, indoor splash zone which can be viewed from the café at Brean Play, and outdoor fun pool with slides which include a disco slide! Throughout the year both Play and Splash hold a host of events from inflatable fun sessions in the pool, to Halloween and Christmas parties, Santa’s Grotto, and school holiday fun days. With Brean Splash being adjacent to Brean Play, it offers a great day out at any time of year, whether you visit one or both! Parent Talk have four double tickets for Brean Splash and Brean Play to give away. For your chance to win, answer the question below and visit www.parenttalk.org.uk by 1pm on 24th October 2018. Entrants must be aged 18 or over.

Can you spot seven differences between these pictures? for answers to our puzzles visit www.parenttalk.org.co.uk

What is the maximum height for children aged 4 to 11 in Brean Play? If you win this competition, we will contact you for permission to pass on your contact details to the PR company concerned. We will never pass on your details without your consent. All other entries will be deleted after the competition closes and will not be passed on to any third parties for marketing or promotional purposes.

10 Parent Talk December 2012

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Open Morning at Chard School One of the oldest schools in the country, Chard School has been educating children in its historic buildings on the same site since 1671. Chard is a small independent school for children aged four to eleven with an excellent academic record, situated in Chard, close to the meeting point of Somerset, Devon and Dorset. The extensive curriculum is designed to prepare pupils for independent, state and grammar school entrance as well as scholarship examinations. At Chard, our guiding principle is to find the most effective teaching approach for each and every child and to instil a sense of fun and discovery into the learning process. Our pupils are happy and motivated learners who truly benefit from the individual tuition our small classes can give them, and who also have the opportunities to become involved in the many artistic, musical and sporting activities that are on offer. As an intentionally small school

UNITI

we are able to cultivate a true ‘family feel’ where all adults and children know each other well and benefit from the friendly and supportive environment that we encourage. Headteacher, Katie Hill, said “We invite prospective families to join us on our Open Day on 16th November to tour

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our thriving preparatory school and to find out what we can offer your child. We can assure you that you will receive a warm welcome!”. To register your interest in the Open Morning, please contact the school office on 01460 63234 or email secretary@ chardschool.co.uk.

VIREAMUS

Children lack cooking skills

Millions of parents admit

they ‘rarely’ cook with their children, according to a study conducted via OnePoll.com. Researchers who polled 2,000 mums and dads of kids aged four to 12 found one fifth hardly ever team up with their kids to rustle up a tasty dish, if at all. Another fifth admit they NEVER encourage their children to cook with them - while more than a third believe their kids have no interest in cooking whatsoever. Worse still, a quarter of parents don’t rate their kid’s cooking abilities and claim they are ‘not very good’ in the kitchen. Despite this, seven in 10 mums and dads think cooking helps them to 'bond' with their child. While 87 per cent admit it’s important to learn to cook from a young age because it teaches kids to become independent in later life. The survey was commissioned by Barbie, who have recently launched a range of cookingthemed toys and partnered with Celebrity Chef and TV Presenter Angellica Bell to get children interested in cooking. Angellica said: “Cooking was always such an important part of my childhood, and I was shocked to see so many children aren’t confident in the kitchen and are

unable to create basic dishes.'' But the lack of ability in the kitchen largely comes from mums and dads failing to teach their children basic cooking skills. On the odd occasion children DO make it into the kitchen, four in 10 love to bake cakes or bread, and a further third are interested in producing desserts for the family. For the average primary school child, mum is considered to be the main cooking inspiration, but poor old dad doesn’t get a look in. And modern children are more likely to look to YouTube or the television than school for a bit of help or advice in the kitchen. Angellica added: ''I love cooking with my own children, so it’s great to have partnered with Barbie to encourage cooking from a young age; and how developing these key life skills helps children to gain independence and have most importantly, have fun!” A Mattel spokesperson said: “After finding that 87 per cent of parents think cooking teaches kids independence, we are thrilled to have partnered with Angellica Bell to inspire young children to cook, and help educate them in the kitchen

through learning fun new skills. To find out more search #YouCanBeAChef. SKILLS CHILDREN HAVEN’T YET MASTERED: 1. How to poach an egg – 83 per cent 2. How to crush garlic – 83 per cent 3. How to cook meat – 78 per cent 4. How to strain boiled food items – 77 per cent 5. How to scramble an egg – 76 per cent 6. How to melt chocolate – 67 per cent 7. How to cook pasta – 62 per cent 8. How to boil an egg – 61 per cent 9. How to use kitchen gadgets – 59 per cent 10. How to measure / weigh food items – 54 per cent TOP 10 COOKING INSPIRATIONS FOR KIDS: 1. Mum 2. TV 3. YouTube 4. Recipe books 5. School 6. Dad 7. Grandma 8. Celebrity chefs 9. Social media 10. Grandad

VIREAMUS

“AT CHARD SCHOOL EVERY CHILD COUNTS. IT’S OUR AIM TO GIVE EVERY CHILD THE OPPORTUNITY TO SHINE, THRIVE AND ABOVE ALL BE HAPPY.” KATIE HILL, HEADTEACHER

Open Morning Friday 16th November 9.30am-11.30am

www.chardschool.co.uk 10 Parent Talk October 2018

Tel: 01460 63234 follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Starting school advice from Queen’s College Pre-Prep Choosing your child’s first school is a big decision and, at Queen’s College Pre-Prep, we recognise how important this milestone is for every parent of a four-year-old. Our priority is to ensure our youngest pupils, taking their first steps into school, settle quickly, gain confidence and thrive in that important first year. We pride ourselves on our outstanding pastoral care, building strong relationships with both parents and their children. We offer a variety of transitional activities to our pre-school children in the term before they start Reception to allow them to become familiar with the school setting and the teachers and to ensure a relaxed, happy and smooth introduction to school. Similarly, we are keen for parents of new Reception children to feel confident and reassured, inviting them to information evenings and other events prior to their child joining.

Our broad and enriched curriculum is delivered in a way which inspires the children, encourages them to contribute and ensures their learning experiences are enjoyable. We place emphasis on really getting to know every pupil, allowing us to tailor our teaching for each child and affording them the personal attention they need to flourish in their learning. Starting school is the beginning of an exciting journey. Within our caring community

we ensure the building blocks to a lifelong learning adventure are firmly in place. We want our children to look forward to coming to school, to be enthusiastic and excited about their learning, to be involved, to feel confident and secure and to be able to express themselves. We look forward to welcoming new families to our Pre-Prep and Junior Open Morning on Friday, October 5th, and showing you around our lovely school.

Starting Reception? Starting school is an exciting time for your little ones and a new era for you as a parent. Which school will you choose and how do you go about making this important decision? We believe Millfield Pre-Prep offers the best possible start to your child’s learning journey. Our infant classes are hubs of activity and discovery with an inspirational, child-led curriculum including weekly French, PE and Music lessons. Outside learning is a key priority, including Forest School where the children develop skills in exploration, tool use, and den building. Children also enjoy the sensory garden, orchards and allotments, and visits to see the ponies and horses in the stables. Add to this small class sizes and additional support when required, and you create a learning environment that encourages success and a positive sense of purpose from day one. Each week the children swim

in our onsite indoor heated pool and have a choice of a wide range of free and paid for after school clubs to choose from, including tennis, rugby, horse riding, yoga and nature detectives. Before and afterschool care for the busy working parent is from 8am through to 6pm and children are served

nutritious, tasty lunches and plenty of healthy snacks to keep them fuelled throughout their busy day. Why not come along to see how our children learn at Millfield Pre-Prep by booking a personal visit to view our outstanding facilities and meet our dedicated staff.

To arrange a Personal Visit or book a place on our Open Morning on Saturday 2 March 2019 please call 01458 837524 or email hannahcox@millfieldprep.com millfieldschool.com/pre-prep

For those unable to attend our Open Morning, please contact our Junior Admissions Registrar, Vanessa Monks, who will be delighted to arrange a personal tour of the Pre-Prep on an alternative date – email junioradmissions@queenscollege.org.uk or call 01823 278928

Writer Designer Footballer ARIANA, AGE 5

To book a Personal Visit or an Open Morning call Hannah Cox in Admissions on 01458 837524

millfieldschool.com/mymillfield follow us on twitter @parenttalksw visit us at www.parenttalk.org.uk

Parent Talk October 2018 11

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

New Headmaster for Perrott Hill

Perrott Hill is delighted to welcome a new Headmaster this term. Alex McCullough and his wife, Helen, have moved to the area from Cornwall – where Alex was the Headmaster of Polwhele House, a small and highly-regarded prep school near Truro. Prior to this, Alex was the Academic Director at Foremarke Hall (Repton Prep School). Alex’s wife, Helen, is a pre-prep teacher by training, and joins Perrott Hill as Head of EYFS and Reception teacher. “Helen and I are delighted to be joining the team at Perrott Hill and we are very much enjoying getting to know the children, staff, parents and the wider community,” says

Alex. “The school really is a magical place with its family ethos, strong sense of identity and high levels of pupil achievement.” Rated ‘excellent’ in every category in its latest ISI inspection, the school has recently received a plethora of glowing reviews – including the Tatler Schools Guide (who have written that ‘Perrott Hill is an establishment that punches above its weight … Parents rave about the beautiful setting and the wonderfully warm and supportive atmosphere’) and the Angels and Urchins School Guide (which says, ‘The family atmosphere is the real deal; fizzy dedicated staff and terrific teaching.’).

The school has Open Mornings coming up on Friday 5th October for Pre-Prep children (Nursery to Year 2) and Saturday 6th October for Prep children (Years 3 to 8). To book, please call 01460 72051 or email admissions@perrotthill.com

NURSERYdirectory All Hallows Preparatory School Nursery Class Give your 3 year old the best possible start within the environs of this renowned Prep School. Fantastic facilities and activities including Forest School, LTA Tennis Academy and Swimming Pool and access to specialist teaching staff for languages, Music, Art, Dance, Drama and Sport set this facility apart from other nurseries. Visit at any time: 01749 881600 admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk Bridgwater & Taunton College Childcare Centre is Ofsted rated Outstanding and open to the general public and children of students, from four months to five years of age. There is also a Holiday Play Scheme for children up to eight years old. It has a secure outdoor area boasting an inspirational garden, where children are encouraged to explore both indoor and outdoor learning. 01278 441270 or email childcare@bridgwater.ac.uk www.bridgwaterchildcare.co.uk First Steps Day Nursery School (all year from 8am-6pm). For children from 3 months to 5 years. Offering a caring, educational and safe environment for your child. All fully qualified staff. Contact Elaine Garland 01749 346733 or email fsdaynursery@btconnect.com

A leading independent day and boarding school in Somerset, offering excellence in education to rising 3-13 year olds

OPEN

Mornings Friday 5th and Saturday 6th October 2018

www.perrotthill.com @perrotthill

Hazlegrove Nursery and Pre-Prep, Sparkford. Family, friendship and festivals are at the heart of this coeducational boarding and day school which delights in children being children. The winning combination of experienced, committed staff and small class sizes, creates a friendly, stimulating and secure

environment in which pupils lay down firm foundations in all areas of the curriculum, on which they can build in future years. The nursery provides a vibrant and engaging environment for pre-school children and is the ideal start to their school life. For more information and to arrange a visit, please contact Sarah-Jane on 01963 442606 admissions@hazlegrove.co.uk King’s Hall Nursery King’s Hall is a wonderfully traditional yet progressive school set in the rolling Somerset countryside just outside Taunton. Although the Nursery shares the Preparatory school’s superb facilities, it is self contained and operates in a secure and peaceful environment. Log cabin classrooms, vast on-site Forest School and highly experienced, dedicated staff make King’s Hall Nursery the natural choice for children 2 to 5 years. 01823 285921 www.kingshalltaunton.co.uk Millfield Pre-Prep School (Ages 2-7), situated in the beautiful Prep campus in Glastonbury. Our aim is to encourage a love of learning through a combination of classroom and outdoor activities, using a child-led curriculum, small class sizes and excellent facilities, including our on-site Forest School and indoor swimming pool. Over 20 free after-school activities as well as an Early Birds and Late Club, and a daily toddler group during term time for ages 1-3. To arrange a visit please contact: Hannah Cox in Admissions on 01458 837524 Perrott Hill Montessori Nursery and Pre-Prep. Given ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted, the Nursery is situated in the

attractive, safe courtyard of the manor house. The Nursery children, aged 3-4 years, have the use of the extensive grounds and facilities of the school (age range 3-13) as well as having their own outdoor adventure play area. The staff are warm and friendly. Free after school care is available. 01460 72051 www.perrotthill.com Queen’s College Highgrove Nursery, Nursery School, Pre-Prep and Reception 0-5 years. Queen’s Pre Prep and Junior School is renowned for excellence in infant and junior education and care. The team at Queen’s Highgrove Nursery embrace such standards of education and development offering year round care 0-3 years. Queen’s Nursery School is situated in the Pre-Prep Department and it is here that the stepping stones to a formal education are laid. Highly qualified and experienced Nursery School staff work in close liaison with parents and the Highgrove Nursery team, ensuring a smooth and personalised transition. Queen’s Pre-Prep takes pride in providing a rich, stimulating and diverse education within a nurturing and caring environment. www.queenscollege.org.uk 01823 278928, junioradmissions@queenscollege. org.uk Sunny Hill Pre-School and Pre-Prep (Ages 3 - 7) Sunny Hill welcomes pre-school and primary school-aged children, taking girls from 3-11 years old and boys aged 3-7. Situated in the beautiful market town of Bruton on the 40 acre campus of 'big sister' school, Bruton School for Girls. Small classes mean that every child receives high quality individual

attention; your child will not get ‘lost in the crowd’ at Sunny Hill. They will be treasured; we are interested in the individual child, they have our time and our attention. Wrap around care available. To arrange a visit or taster session please contact Mrs Carrie Crook in Admissions on 01749 824400 or email admissions@brutonschool.co.uk Taunton Nursery School for children from 0 years. Flexible Nursery Education, 7.30am- 5.45pm. Highly qualified teachers. Spectacular grounds and facilities used by all. Children can attend a combination of morning, afternoon and late club sessions. 01823 703300 www.tauntonschool.co.uk Wellington Prep School Nursery Attractive, well-designed buildings. Talented teachers. Cheerful children. Proud parents. All this can be yours at Wellington Prep School Nursery and Pre-Nursery. EYFS can be redeemed against our fees. We would love to have your children from 3 years upwards. Open 50 weeks per year. Please enjoy our website www.wellington-school.org.uk or call Rachel Debenham to arrange a visit. 01823 668700 Little Wellies Term time Toddler group. Open to all pre-school children every Thursday morning 9.15-11.15am, Wellington Prep School Hall. £3 per child and £1 per additional child weekly charge. Contact Marian Bassindale for more details 01823 668700 prep@wellington-school.org.uk

/perrotthillschool

To book our Nursery Directory, please call 01458 250461 12 Parent Talk October 2018

EDUCATION, INFORMATION

Top tips to get children reading

New library opens at All Hallows

Kate Wiseman is a children’s writer. She lives in Saffron Walden with her husband, her son (when he’s home from university) and three neurotic cats. Kate writes about Blaggard’s School for Tomorrow’s Tyrants, the world’s best school for trainee criminals. The idea for Blaggard’s originated with her son, who used to say that when he grew up he wanted to be an evil genius. Here she talks about ways to get children interested in reading. ● Read yourself – show your kids that it’s a pleasure, not a chore. ● I’m a firm believer in finding the book that floats your kid’s boat and using it to entice him/ her into the world of reading. When my son was small, he refused to read fiction but was fascinated by Greek and Roman myths. I found a funny, fictional book about Hercules and that set him off. There were lots of others with similar themes to feed his interest when he’d finished that one and from there we branched

There was huge excitement as children's author Jeremy Strong arrived to open the All Hallows new library. The totally refurbished facility opened to great excitement as pupils and staff gathered around to watch the ribbon being cut and the door to the library being officially opened recently. Jeremy Strong is a Bath based author credited with writing over 100 children's books. His story There's A Viking In My Bed was made into a BBC children's TV series and he has won several awards including the prestigious Children's Book Award 1997 for The Hundred Mile an Hour Dog; the Manchester Book Award for his teen novel Stuff, and the Sheffield Book Award for Beware, Killer Tomatoes. After cutting the ribbon, Jeremy spent time chatting with different year groups and captivating them with stories of how he was inspired to become an author. With over

school

Kate Wiseman

out into related historical fiction (Caroline Lawrence’s Roman Mysteries, among others) then to alternative worlds (Terry Pratchett) and from there he just followed his interests. He has been an avid reader ever since. ● If your child doesn’t connect with a book, don’t force it onto them. Let them put it down and look for something else. Not finishing a book isn’t a crime. There are thousands are fabulous books out there and there WILL be books that appeal to your child. ● Be prepared to look beyond the classics. There’s nothing

wrong with them, of course, but there’s so much more out there. ● Read with your children. Show an interest in what they’re reading. Be prepared to discuss it with them. ● Take them to the local library. Encourage them to talk to the staff there, who will have loads of ideas and suggestions. It’s what they live for. ● Consider audiobooks. My son used to love following along to an audiobook. There are some wonderful ones to choose from. Gangster School: The Brotherhood of Brimstone (£6.99) is now available to buy.

3,000 books lining the new shelves, colourful furniture and 16 iPads, the staff and children are very proud and excited to use the new facility. As Jeremy told the children, every one of those books opens up a new world - that is over 3,000 new worlds to explore! The school has also introduced the highly acclaimed Accelerated Reader

system where pupils take online tests to determine their optimal reading level and quizzes to monitor their comprehension. Teachers and parents will be able to follow their progress in real time and offer support and encouragement accordingly. Reading is now physically and literally back at the heart of All Hallows.

Open Morning Saturday 6th October 9.30am to Midday Come and discover what makes us different and why our children are achieving superb outcomes in so many areas. Set in a stunning location midway between Frome, Bath and Bruton, All Hallows is a truly independent day and boarding school welcoming boys and girls aged 3 to 13. Please call Jackie Truelove on 01749 881609 for further information or to arrange to visit. We look forward to meeting you! www.allhallowsschool.co.uk

Parent Talk October 2018 13

BOOK REVIEW

Editor’s choice

Matchstick Monkey Colours – a finger trail adventure Boardbook Published by Ladybird. Age: 6 months + There’s a competition going on in Matchstick Jungle…but which monkey will win? Bold illustrations and sparkly glitter trails help little ones follow the Matchstick Monkeys.

Tom’s Magnificent Machines By Linda Sarah and Ben Mantle Published by Simon & Schuster. Age: 2+ Tom and his dad are good at making things. Their inventions start out simple, but they quickly become bigger, faster, crazier – and they almost always involve wheels. But then Dad loses his job, and everything changes. Sadness clouds the house like a winter sky. That is, until Tom comes up with a brilliant plan that takes their amazing vehicle inventions and creates something astounding – something the world has never seen before…

What’s for lunch, Papa Penguin? By Jo Williamson Published by Scholastic. Age: 3+ Papa Penguin and Pippin run the best café in the Antarctic, serving fish for breakfast, fish for lunch, fish for dinner, and even…fish ice cream! Everyone loves fish. Or do they? Ideal for fussy eaters, this is a hilarious picture book about a penguin chef’s chaotic road trip around the world in search of new exciting foods to try.

It all began when I said YES By Simon Philip, illustrated by Annabel Tempest. Published by Simon & Schuster. Age: 3+. When a gorilla named Gideon shows up at your house with lots of questions and some pretty bonkers requests, perhaps ‘yes’ will lead to trouble, trouble and maybe just a touch more trouble. One thing’s for sure – it definitely won’t be boring!

Dave the Lonely Monster By Anna Kemp & Sara Ogilvie Published by Simon & Schuster. Age: 3+ When Dave the lonely monster meets Sir Percival the Brave, things don’t get off to the best start, but could knight and beast end up as friends? Find out in this warm, funny story about the importance of being kind to one another. 14 Parent Talk October 2018

Maybe the Moon By Frances Ives Published by Buster Books. Age: 3+ Telling a timeless story about the importance of friendship in all its guises, overcoming fear and finding happiness in unexpected places, ‘Maybe the Moon’ portrays that community, companionship and beauty can come in many different forms.

How to Ride a Polar Bear By Caryl Hart and Ed Eaves Published by Simon & Schuster. Age: 3+ When Albie and his mum go to the museum, Albie has no idea what is in store for him. He knows that museums are fusty and dusty and full of smelly things, but what he doesn’t expect are igloos, wolves and a real-life polar bear…

Jingle Spells By James Brown Published by Simon & Schuster. Age: 3+ Trixie’s friends think she’s batty as a vampire, so she needs Santa’s help to spread the Christmas joy. But when she visits Lapland HQ, Santa is nowhere to be seen, the elves’ shelves are empty and ALL WITCHES are on the Naughty List! Luckily, Trixie knows a spell or two that just might save Christmas for everyone.

Dragon Post By Emma Yarlett Published by Walker Books. Age: 4+ One day Alex finds a dragon living under his stairs. He isn’t sure what to do – but luckily he knows just who to ask for help! Open the little envelopes and read the hilarious letters Alex receives from the fire brigade, the butcher and more as he tries to take care of his new dragon friend.

I went Trick-or-Treating By Paul Howard Published by Bloomsbury. Age: 4+ When a brother and sister go trick-or-treating, they compete to see who can scare the creepiest creatures. As they try to remember each hair-raising encounter, everything escalates – until they get the biggest fright of all! It’s time for the Halloween feast! A new take on an old favourite, children will love this laugh-out-loud, testyour-memory story, with ghosts, skeletons, a spooky pirate ship and much, much more!

The Truth Pixie By Matt Haig, illustrated by Chris Mould Published by Canongate. Age: 6-10 This Christmas, get ready to meet the Truth Pixie, the cheeky little sister from Matt Haig and Chris Mould’s festive series, as she gets her very own book! The Truth Pixie is a short, sweet rhyming story for younger readers (ages 5-8) and is the latest collaboration between Matt Haig and illustrator Chris Mould.

Gangster School – The Brotherhood of Brimstone By Kate Wiseman Published by Zuntold. Age: 6-10 years Trouble is brewing at Blaggard’s School for Tomorrow’s Tyrants. Sir Byron’s Brain, a priceless legendary diamond, has gone missing. If it leaves the school grounds, Blaggard’s will be destroyed forever and the head teacher obliterated! Could the evil Brotherhood of Brimstone – an ancient secret society – have anything to do with it? Best friends Milly and Charlie embark on an adventure to find out.

Lift the Flap Engineering By Rose Hall, illustrated by Lee Cosgrove Published by Usborne. Age: 7+ Lift the Flap Engineering is a stylish introduction to the vast world of engineering – what it is, how it works, and how many different jobs it involves. With an engaging lift-theflap style, this is a fantastic introduction for the world’s future engineers!

Inkling By Kenneth Oppel Published by Walker Books. Age: 7+ The Rylance family have suffered a tragedy but when Ethan’s class is given the task of creating a comic book and magical ink jumps out of his father’s sketchbook, a strange series of events is set into motion… Inkling can morph into different shapes, gobble up stories and absorb colours. To Ethan’s younger sister, Inkling is Lucy, her beloved dog; to his famous artist father, Inkling is a second chance at a dwindling career and an opportunity to solve his family’s money worries. But when Vika, Ethan’s arch enemy grows suspicious of Ethan’s brilliant comic book drawings, and Inkling the magical ink splodge is in danger, will Ethan be able to save his new friend?

CLASSIFIED FAMILY My Mum Tracy Beaker By Jacqueline Wilson, illustrated by Nick Sharratt Published by Penguin Random House. Age: 8+ Jess and Tracy Beaker are the perfect team. Jess thinks Tracy is the best mum ever (even when Tracy shouts at her teachers). Tracy is fun and daring, but she also works hard to give Jess the family home she desperately wanted when growing up in the Dumping Ground. Their flat might be a bit mouldy but it’s their happy home. But when Sean Godfrey – Tracy’s rich new boyfriend – comes onto the scene, Jess is worried things are going to change. What if Sean wants to turn Jess’s brilliant mum into a new person altogether? Sean’s superstar mansion and fancy cars might have been Tracy’s childhood dream, but maybe the Beakers’ perfect home was right in front of them all along…

The Trouble with Perfect By Helena Duggan Published by Usborne. Age: 9+ Having uncovered the secrets that lay behind the spookily pristine town of Perfect, Violet and the townsfolk are enjoying their new freedom from the maniacal rule of the evil Archer twins. But have they really seen the last of Edward Archer? Why is Boy acting strangely? And who is masterminding a scary zombie army?

The Eleventh Trade By Alyssa Hollingsworth Published by Piccadilly Press. Age: 9+ ‘The world inside me expands. Even though my eyes are closed, I see my home.’ Back in Afghanistan, Sami’s grandfather was a famous musician. Even now in Boston the sound of his instrument, the rebab, is the sound of home. Then the rebab is stolen and appears in a shop for $700. Sami has no money and nothing to sell. What he does have is something to trade. But there are two side to every bargain and Sami’s chance of success depends on the very last thing he wants – help.

The Teenage Girls Survival Bible By Jane Bradley Published by Troubador. Age: 13+ Brimming with tips, life hacks and advice, ‘The Teenage Girls Survival Bible’ is the must-have modern guide with tips, tricks and caution on everything and anything a teenage girl needs to know.

The Train to Impossible Places By P.G. Bell Published by Usborne. Age: 9+ Suzy loves science – you know where you are with science. So when a gigantic steam train crashes into Suzy’s hallway, she doesn’t know what to make of it. But Suzy soon finds herself the newest recruit on the Impossible Postal Express. It’s a confusing world, where Suzy’s knowledge of the laws of physics is turned upside down, trains are powered by exploding fusion bananas, and there are five corners of reality. And when her first package starts talking to her, an Impossible adventure begins.

Death in the Spotlight By Robin Stevens Published by Puffin. Age: 9+ Fresh from their adventure in Hong Kong, Hazel Wong and Daisy Wells are off to the Rue Theatre in London to face an entirely new challenge: acting. But danger has a nasty habit of catching up with the Detective Society, and it soon becomes clear that there is trouble afoot at the Rue. Jealousy, threats and horrible pranks quickly spiral out of control – and then a body is found. Now Hazel and Daisy must take centre stage and solve the crime…before the murderer strikes again.

Raising Boys By Steve Biddulph Published by HarperCollins In this expanded and updated edition of the word of mouth worldwide bestseller, Steve Biddulph shares and gives practical and honest advice to parents so they can recognize the different stages of boyhood and learn how to raise happy, confident and kind young men.

KEITH’S MAGICAL ENTERTAINMENT Children’s parties a speciality. Magic, Puppets, Comedy. Terrific entertainment. Police checked and insured. 01935 822135 www.keithsmagic.co.uk

FUN PLAY FACILITATOR!! Interactive Story Workshops for Kids. Lisa Bolitho 07766 296497 energisingspaces@ yahoo.co.uk

CATHERINE’S MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT For tailor-made Magic Shows, Mini Discos, Games and Balloon Twisting Family Fun For Everyone!! Ideal For Any Party, Large or Small, Indoors or Out 07770 227812 catherine@magicentertainment.co.uk [c/w enhanced DBS for added peace of mind]

Ofsted Registered Childminder in idyllic rural location 5 minutes from A303

Melanie Tuffill 01460 234325/07876481027 melanie@oliveronline.co.uk

Quirky Textile Gifts www.sarahharmertextileart.com Selection of children’s books and parenting guides for one lucky school to add to their library.

The Not-So New Mum’s Notebook By Amy Ransom Published by Penguin Random House Aimed at mums who have survived the first year of motherhood, The Not-SoNew-Mum’s Notebook is filled with pages and pages of self-care, reassurance and ‘we’ve all been there’ advice. It hopes to make mums everywhere feel good about themselves, to put them at ease and to reassure them about how well they are raising their child.

For a chance to win, email editor@parenttalk.org.uk giving the name of your school and, in less than 50 words, why it should be chosen. Closing date 5th November 2018.

Parent Talk

Running out of ideas for a family meal?

Parent talk

head over to our website www.parenttalk.org.uk where you'll find lots of ideas for preparing easy, wholesome and tasty dishes.

Don't miss our Christmas issue out 5th November! Parent Talk October 2018 15

Our school is helping to change children’s live s by taking part in the Big BBC Children in N eed Spotacular!

don’t let your class miss out! To get involved talk

Save the Date!

Appeal week starts 12 November

We’ll be taking part by hosting our own Bring & Buy sale, wearing spots and taking on challenges!

Visit bbcchildreninnee d.co.uk/schools for tools, tips and reso urces.