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From your Editor…
In this issue:
Happy New Year and welcome to our first issue of 2017. A New Year brings new possibilities, although as the new year always starts during deepest darkest winter it’s hard to see them. So, what’s needed is a bit of positive thinking; at Families Herts we like (as the song says) to “always look on the bright side of life.” That is something that comes naturally to youngsters and so we are kicking off 2017 with our Nursery & Early Years feature that looks at how day care affects little ones. The start of the year is always a time when people think about experimenting with something different to improve health and wellbeing and in this issue, we look at the benefits of mindfulness for children. We are delighted to have an interview with Joanne Harris, the renowned author of ‘Chocolat’ and other wonderful stories, talking about what inspires and motivates her to write. We hope you enjoy this issue and we will be springing back again in March.
News & Views: 4 Nursery & Early Years: 6 Health & Well Being: 9 What’s On: 10 National Story Telling Week: 12 Education: 13 Next Issue: March/April Copy Deadline: 3rd February
Image credit: © michaeljung
Where are we? Baldock, Bishops Stortford, Borehamwood, Chorleywood, Harpenden, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Hitchin, Kings Langley, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, St Albans, Stevenage, Ware, Welwyn GC. Pick it up from cafes, playgroups, nurseries, schools, activity groups, selected shops, surgeries, leisure centres and libraries. Email or call to request copies for your venue.
Shelley Families Herts, PO Box 434, Pinner, HA5 9AH Tel: 020 8428 6384 editor@familiesherts.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk
Say you saw it in
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News & Views Perform X Perform X dance classes in Harpenden for 6-12 year olds are high-energy weekly sessions that will boost children’s coordination and concentration. They will get fit, develop physical skills and have fun. The unique Perform X classes use original street and hip-hop music and are based around a specially designed curriculum which includes energetic games, physical improvisations and exhilarating moves guaranteed to speed up young hearts. All class materials are produced by Perform and at the end of each term, there's a performance of a choreographed piece to a specially written track. Find out
Star Wars Makes Sense
more or book a free trial by calling 020 7255 9120 or visiting www.perform.org.uk/x
Wear A Hat Day - Save the date Pencil Friday 31st March in your diary because Wear A Hat Day is back for the eighth time and it will be even hattier than ever. Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer… yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease. Brain Tumour Research is the only national UK charity that funds sustainable research into finding a cure. Wear A Hat Day is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event, and is a great way to show your support and raise money for brain tumour research during a day of hat-filled fun and games. Buy a hat, make a hat, take a photo and share it online #HATTASTIC Get started by registering online to receive a pack of fundraising goodies including leaflets, posters and balloons. Check out the Hatter’s
Workshop at www.wearahatday.org - it's brim-ming with ideas.
Stargazing at Bayfordbury Observatory Have you ever wondered what is inside a black hole? How today’s giant telescopes actually work? What space travel will look like over the next 100 years? If the answer is yes to any of those questions, then go along and join Astronomers, scientists and students from the University of Hertfordshire at the Bayfordbury Observatory near Hertford. It is open to the general public for a series of special events up until March. From December to March, people can visit the Observatory and see how the telescopes work, watch planetarium shows and take part in lab and computer activities suited to all ages. There are also themed open evenings that will focus on specific areas of stargazing and space exploration. Find out more at star.herts.ac.uk/ bayfordbury
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Neil Ellis, from Elstree is a Star Wars fan and a concept model maker for Lucasfilm. He has collected together 150 autographs of the cast and crew from the Star Wars film franchise and created a unique book. The signatures include those of Harrison Ford, Daisy Ridley, J.J Abrams, Mark Hamill and Carrie Fisher. The book is displayed in a spectacular ‘Millennium Falcon’ themed bronze-cast that Neil has designed. Neil plans to give his book away in a prize draw to raise funds for Sense, the national charity for the deafblind This is an unmissable opportunity for all Star Wars fan and anyone who wants to support Sense. For a chance to win this amazing prize all you need to do is to make a minimum donation of £5 to Sense through Neil’s fundraising page at www. justgiving.com/fundraising/Autograph-Book. The lucky winner will be randomly selected on Star Wars Day (4th May). All the autographs and other fascinating facts can be viewed at theartoftheforceawakens.blogspot.co.uk To find out more about Sense go to www.sense.org.uk
Free places at private schools? Private schools will offer to provide up to 10,000 free school places a year to children from low-income families in England. The Independent Schools Council (ISC) (www.isc.co.uk) says if the government pays £5,550 per place – the cost of a place in the state system – the remainder of the cost will be covered by the schools. The ISC was responding to pressure from the government to do more for their state school counterparts in return for charitable status, which allows for tax breaks. The scheme, which would test some children on academic ability, would be open to primary and secondary schoolage children.
School Secretary receives The British Empire Medal Did you know that six Hertfordshire people were amongst the 312 who were awarded the British Empire Medal, in the Queen’s 90th birthday honours list? These medallists were invited to attend a presentation at County Hall in October 2016. Diana Burdett, school secretary at The Grove Infant and Nursery School, Harpenden, was decorated for services to education within her local community. The other recipients were honoured for work with: the homeless, an overseas project, swimming for the disabled,
Bradley the Bus
Bradley the Bus is a story about a lively London bus that goes on an adventure to find missing pieces of a magic puzzle. Bradley the Bus travels across the globe in search for the missing pieces learning about different cultures on his way. Written and illustrated by Inderjit Puaar, the book takes children on a fascinating journey and teaches them about different modes of transport, countries and cultures. The book also features road safety advice and is endorsed by Transport for London. Inderjit was inspired to create her book by her two young sons who sparked her interest in children books and also by her experiences of taking part in the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic games. Inderjit Puaar visits schools and libraries introducing Bradley to young readers. Find out more at www.bradleythebus.com
charities and the community. The Countess of Verulam, Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, undertook the investiture in the Council Chamber, with the Vice Lord Lieutenant, Richard Beazley, introducing each medallist and outlining their achievements. Following this everybody adjourned to the ballroom for a reception, where medallists and their guests were made to feel very special in the company of Deputy Lieutenants, administrative staff, county and local dignitaries, and a team of cadets.
Image courtesy of Julie Tese
The medallists are now looking forward to a reunion at a Buckingham Palace garden party in 2017.
Jigsaw Performing Arts:
Should you let your child use a tablet? A new research project aims to discover the influence technology has on children's learning, social interactions and play, from birth to 47 months - and parents are invited to join in. Dr Elena Hoicka from the University of Sheffield's Department of Psychology wants to find out whether technology is good for children's development, bad, or a bit of both. The survey asks questions about how long children use different types of technology. It also asks about how children prefer to learn, what they understand about other people, and how children engage in pretend play. All participants will be invited to repeat the survey six months later so that the researchers can determine if technology has had an impact or not. After the six months, parents will receive a summary of their child's learning style, social understanding, and play. £2 will be donated to UNICEF for each parent who completes the second survey. Find out more at babylovesscience.com.
Say you saw it in
are you the missing piece?
Jigsaw has been offering weekend performing arts classes to children aged 3-18 across London, Hertfordshire and the South East for over 20 years. From musical theatre to contemporary drama and dance, the performing arts are a hugely enjoyable way for children and young adults to develop skills for life. At Jigsaw, they understand that attending a performing arts school for the first time can be an exciting but nervous experience. That is why they offer a two week trial before committing to a full term. Book a free trial to find out if you’re the missing piece. Find out more or book a two week trial at www.jigsawarts.co.uk or call 0208 447 4530.
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Nursery & Early Years Nursery Applications Parents of children born between 1 September 2013 and 31 August 2014 can apply online for nursery places at Hertfordshire nursery schools and classes from Monday 6 February 2017. Parents should approach private, voluntary and independent (PVI) providers direct for a place at these settings.
Applying online for a school nursery place: • is quick and easy to do • available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week up until the closing date • you will have your own unique log in details • you can change your application right up until the closing date • your information is fully protected and secure. Parents must log back in to the application system on Tuesday 25 April to view and accept their nursery offer. Allocation emails will not be sent direct to parents. All you need is an email account and internet access whether it is your home computer, at an internet café or at your local library. Many children’s centres also offer access.
Timetable for admissions to nursery schools and classes Apply online from:.Monday 6 February 2017 Closing date:. Friday 17 March 2017 Offer date: Tuesday 25 April 2017 Accept your place by:. Wednesday 3 May 2017 Visit: www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/nurseryadmissions
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Batford Early Years Centre Batford Nursery School serves Harpenden and the surrounding areas. It has a long-standing reputation as an outstanding school but also provides a one-stop shop for the needs of families with children under five, through the school’s day care, Skylarks. From January 2017, Tiny Larks will provide for 15 babies and younger toddlers in a beautiful new and fully accessible unit, which is light and airy with its own garden area. Little Larks, catering for children aged 2 and 3 opened for full day care in September 2016 and is situated next to Tiny Larks. Children can progress through the unit, entering the Nursery School in the term after their third birthday. This outstanding school is led by a Headteacher and staffed by a Specialist Leader of Education and other Expert Teachers, supported by fully qualified and experienced Early Years Practitioners. Skylarks is also graduate-led and has an experienced and stable staff team ensuring outstanding care and education. The amazing facilities include several huge, well designed garden areas, including a Forest School, led by a fully qualified professional. The indoor environment is of the highest quality and supports children’s learning so that they make outstanding progress and are fully equipped for Primary School.
Say you saw it in
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Nursery & Early Years
Day Care Dilemmas By Lynne Murray Day care is the fastest growing form of child care in the UK and most children experience some formal non-parental care by the age of two years. So, what effect does day care have on the development of a child? How can parents maximise its benefits and alleviate any difficulties arising? Firstly, any effects of day care on a child’s development are by far outweighed by his or her family influences. Secondly, research concludes overwhelmingly that the effects of day care are very dependent on its quality. Fortunately, in the UK this is generally good. In settings where there is good training and pay, and a high staff-to-baby ratio, day care staff have higher morale and a strong sense of professionalism and motivation, and there is likely to be a low staff turn-over. All these things are linked to staff providing better care and having the skills to provide both good one-to-one care and to manage a group of babies. Where day care is of a high standard, then there is no evidence of harmful effects on children’s development. Indeed, it can positively benefit language and cognitive development, as well as enhance a child’s social maturity and relationships with other children.
In spite of the potential benefits, helping a baby adjust to day care is not always easy. Firstly, it is quite common for babies to be upset when their parents leave them. Each baby is an individual, and some just seem to find separations, as well as changes in routine and stimulation, harder than others. Separation distress may be more marked after around nine or 10 months old, when babies become more clearly aware of their attachment to their parents, and for this reason some parents prefer to make the transition to day care before then. Some day care settings deal with the stress of separation by encouraging parents to stay with their baby, possibly over the course of some weeks, until the baby settles. If parents feel that their baby is particularly sensitive,
and may find the transition to day care difficult, it is advisable to choose a setting which offers this option, so that the baby can become accustomed to the environment and the staff. Where this is possible, it does seem that babies are less stressed by the separation experience. Good settings commonly help babies manage day care by building active links with home. Parents may be encouraged to bring in special toys, blankets or other ‘attachment objects’ and settings may follow the routines that parents use at home, for example, for settling to sleep. Having in place a system, like ‘day books,’ for passing on information about important events in the baby’s life also help staff respond to each individual baby’s experience and support them sensitively. Some parents worry that their baby will become more attached to day care staff than to them. There is no evidence of this, and parents are typically their baby’s strongest attachment figures. Nevertheless, close attachments can form between babies and their day carers, especially when the carer is responsive and warm towards the baby. This quality of relationship is beneficial to the baby’s development.
Lynne Murray is Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Reading, and author of The Psychology of Babies: How Relationships Support Development from Birth to Two (Constable & Robinson 2014), in which more information on day care, as well as other aspects of babies’ development, is provided.
Cherishing Children
Why won’t my baby sleep? This is a question that Lisa Lamb often asked her baby daughter in the middle of the night but she never got an answer. Month after month of being woken multiple times nightly and soothing her daughter back to sleep was totally exhausting. Sometimes babies are woken by teething pains, wind or hunger pangs, however, barring illness, most babies won’t go to sleep or sleep through because they haven’t learned how to. An adult’s bedtime routine rituals prepare them for sleep, enabling them to wind down mentally and physically. These ‘sleep strategies’ may be a comfortable sleeping position, music, reading, an open window or a warm drink. Babies also need their own calming routine but if they have learnt to sleep while feeding or while being rocked or patted they become
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dependent on this prop. So, when they wake at night they need to be fully awake to cry so that Mum or Dad can come to them and soothe them back to sleep. They simply don’t know what else to do. If this sounds familiar Lisa Lamb can help. She is a Sleep Sense™ certified Sleep Consultant who understands the challenges faced by the parents of a child who doesn’t sleep. She has a compassionate and common-sense approach to helping parents and their babies and will be able to help you help your child. Once your child has learnt how to get themselves to sleep, bedtimes and night-times will become something to look forward to for you both. To find out more call 0759 0470 055, lisa@lovesleep.co, www.lovesleep.co
Artisans Montessori Kindergarten cherishes children and inspires a love of life and learning. With qualified Montessori and Primary school teachers we provide a rich environment in which children flourish. One parent commented: “Artisans has exceeded all my expectations with the vast range of resources for the children and the staff level of expertise.”. Ofsted rate us Outstanding in everything. The woodland opposite provides space for forest school activities too and, for the parents, there is a huge car park and a genuine partnership. We have spaces available and would love to welcome you and your treasured child. To arrange a visit call 07795 510130 or go to www.artisans.uk.com.
Health & Wellbeing effects of stress, thus enabling them to deal with situations in a calmer, more helpful way, to themselves and children. Some of those with autism suffer from psychological imbalances, such as lack of rhythm. Children who struggle with this can have difficulty when trying to balance the inner and outer world, which can result in issues with interaction or distorted relationships. One area of mindfulness that may benefit these children is Mantra Meditation. This type of meditation is all about repetition, such as repeating a sound or repeating a movement or word. It’s this calm and harmonising meditation that can help to restore the child's sense of rhythm.
Can mindfulness help your child thrive at school?
The benefits of mindfulness in children The past two decades have seen an abundance of research, and hundreds of studies conducted, about the increasingly popular practice of mindfulness. Countless results of said studies have shown a great increase in stress, so much so that some Fortune 500 companies in the US for instance, have even employed mindfulness coaches to benefit their employees. Specific programmes for businesses around the globe have been created for their employees to help reduce stress, keep employees' minds fresh and focused and in turn able to perform better at work and of course be happier and healthier from the inside out. But, just what is mindfulness? And does it has the same positive effect on younger children, specifically those between the ages of three and 11?
What is mindfulness? In short, mindfulness is a simplistic programme of meditative activities. It is a simple, yet powerful observation free from criticism and is a new and improved way of seeing what is happening to us in our lives. Although very effective once learnt, mindfulness does of course not rid you of everyday problems and pressures, yet it does, however, provide you with the tools and mindset needed to handle them in a calmer way. This calmer way has been said to benefit not only your mind but also your heart and body, thus providing an improved way of life and a greater sense of clarity and focus.
How can mindfulness help young children? Extensive research has shown that mindfulness can help children between the ages of three and 11. If we take a look at the
developmental changes that occur within children, the physical changes and events such as starting school, socialising, and simply learning about life, it makes perfect sense to equip youngsters with tools on how to deal with their emotions, and how to develop a positive outlook on life with mindfulness skills. Children can learn vital stress-relieving skills such as breathing techniques, mindful hearing and listening. If children struggle with an emotion or getting angry they can revert to mindfulness techniques to learn how to deal with, and control, those emotions.
Mindfulness and autism, ADHD and ADD The Autism Research and Treatment study undertaken by Sequeira is a piece of research that supports the notion that mindfulness meditation has a great positive effect on children with autism. To be mindful helps one keep focused in a precise moment. Taking medication for autism, ADHD or ADD does not have long-term benefits, however, mindfulness can help long term given it is practised daily and part of one's lifestyle, not only for children but also for adults. Parents and/ or carers who look after children with such disorders can often find themselves dealing with stress, so things such as meditation and mindful thinking can help reduce the
Say you saw it in
It is a sad and somewhat worrying fact that more and more children are feeling the stress and pressure of school life. With a push to succeed academically, to make friends or even anxieties related to changing or starting new schools, these pressures are simply no good for our children. With this in mind it is no surprise that teachers, carers and parents are looking towards proven methods of mindfulness to protect and nurture their youngsters' mental and general wellbeing. Some children find short yoga routines at the start or end of their day a great way to clear their mind and relax, as well as stay in tune with their mind and bodies. These sorts of activities are perfect for all ages, from very young children to the elderly. Children who are undertaking exams may find yoga a much-needed break from studying, as even 10 minutes’ practice can provide great clarity and help to re-focus the mind. Many practitioners are encouraging schools and parents to practise mindfulness with their children due to the plethora of proven benefits to all. For instance, Susan Kaiser Greenland has published a study named “Mindful Revolution in Education”. This informative piece goes into more detail on the ways in which mindfulness programmes for children can help create a more compassionate, calmer youngster with good practices.
For more information, visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/wellbeing
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What's On We aim for accuracy but please ensure you check with the venue before you set out in case of changes.
Camps & Activities BERKHAMSTED BASECAMP Berkhamsted School, Doctor's Common Road, Berkhamsted, HP4 3DW 01442 358115 www.berkhamstedbasecamp. co.uk
BaseCamp 13-17 Feb - 9.30am-4.30pm. Holiday activities designed to develop children's sporting, artistic and social skills. Ages 5-11. Additional hours available. Cost: Day £32. Week £144
Mini BASECAMP 13-17 Feb - 9.30am-4.30pm. For children aged 3-5 years. Cost: Day £32. Week £144
Arts & Crafts Day 15 Feb - 9.30am to 4.30pm (additional hours available) Make, create & paint. Ages 5-7yrs, booking required. Cost: £55
Arts & Crafts Day 16 Feb - 9.30am to 4.30pm (additional hours available) Painting, colouring, modelling, sticking, marbling and more. Ages 8-12yrs, booking required. Cost: £55
Hockey Camp 13-14 Feb - 9.30am-4.30pm. The camp focuses on ball skills, set pieces and then being extended into game play. Ages 8-13yrs Cost: £40/Day
HERTS YOUNG MARINERS BASE 231 Windmill Lane, Cheshunt, EN8 9AJ 01992 628403 www.hymb.com Watersports, caving, bush craft, orienteering, fencing, archery. Ages 8-18yrs. Book individual sessions or a multi-activity week (15 sessions). No experience necessary. Cost: £7.50 per session or special offer of £80 for the week (until 5 Jan)
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KOOL KIDZ CAMPS
XC SKATE PARK
Sandridge School, Woodcock Hill, Sandridge, St Albans AL4 9EB 0845 603 2858 koolkidzgroup.co.uk 13-17 Feb A fun multi activity camp. Including: Art, sport, cooking, pedal go-karts bouncy castles and more. The friendly staff are DBS checked and first aid qualified. Book by the week, day or half day. Extended days available. Age 4-12.
Jarman Park, Hemel Hempstead, HP2 4JS 01442 507193 / 01442 507100 www.thexc.co.uk
LANGLEY TENNIS CLUB High Woodhall Lane, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 8RW 01442 230234 www.berkhamstedbasecamp. co.uk
Langley Tennis & Racquets Camp 13-17 Feb - 9.30am- 4.30pm Improve your tennis and hand eye co-ordination. Ages 4-14yrs, booking required. Cost: £40/Day, £160/Week
RE:PLAY HOLIDAY CLUB St Albans 07913 323608 replay5905@ntlworld.com 13-17 Feb - 8.15am-6.15pm Activities to suit all ages: arts & crafts, team games, sports, imaginative areas, den building, competitions, outings and workshops. A wide range of toys and equipment indoors. Book half, full or extended days. Experienced, qualified and fully vetted staff. Advance booking required. Age 4-11 yrs. Re:Play also provide breakfast & after school clubs to five St Albans schools.
WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans, AL2 1BB 08701 299718 www.willowsactivityfarm.com
February Frolics 11-19 Feb New born lambs plus a full programme of activities including Toddler Town, Woolly Jumpers Indoor Play Barn, fun fair rides and animal shows.
Activity Day Camps 10 - 17 Feb - 8am to 6pm (with early and late clubs) Children will have loads of fun at Willows Ofsted registered Activity Day Camp. all meals, drinks and snacks included in the price. Ages: 3 – 12yrs.
Extreme Sports The XC, extreme sports facility, is for kids who want to be active. The venue has a skate park, a 14m climbing wall, an organic indoor caving system plus bouldering and a challenging high ropes course, all under cover. Contact the venue for times and prices of sessions.
Theatre ALBAN ARENA Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk
Cirque Du Hilarious
No interval. Tickets: All Seats £13, Groups of 10+ £10.50
OLD TOWN HALL High Street, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3AE. 01442 228091 www.toth.dacorum.gov.uk
Wow Said the Owl 18 Feb - 11am, 2.30pm Explore the wow-world of colours with this curious little owl who is going to stay awake to see what day light brings. Tickets: £6. Dacorum Card £4.50
RADLETT CENTRE 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 8HL 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk
Marty MacDonald’s Toy Machine show
13 Feb - 2.30pm Clive and Danny’s madcap hilarious humour appeals to all ages. Tickets: Adult £16. Child £12
15 Feb – 2pm Fun, interactive, song-filled adventure, set in a farmyard with lovable puppet characters. Ages 2-7yrs. Tickets: £10.50. Family £38
Monstersaurus show
Grannys Game
16 Feb - 11am, 2pm Follow the young inventor Monty as he creates a whole world of whacky inventions and incredible monsters. Ages 3+ Tickets: £12.50
17 Feb - 2pm Exploring while stuck at Gran’s, two children discover a most mysterious game. Tickets: £10. Family £36
GORDON CRAIG THEATRE Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk
The Children's Trust Stars of Tomorrow 2017 13 Feb - 7pm Dance schools from Stevenage and surrounds show their adaptations of pieces from the musicals. In aid of The Children's Trust.
The Little Mix Experience 15 Feb – 1pm, 6pm Four talented girls pay tribute to one of the UK’s finest girl bands. Tickets: £13
HERTFORD THEATRE The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com
Room on the Broom 10 Feb - 1.30pm 11-12 Feb - 11am, 2pm Join the Witch and her cat on their mission to defeat the dragon. Duration 55mins.
Alice in Wonderland 19 Feb - 2pm Follow Alice and the White Rabbit as they set off on a topsyturvy adventure. A great family show. Tickets: £12. Family £40
RHODES ARTS COMPLEX 1-3 South Road, Bishops Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 651746 www.rhodesbishopsstortford. org.uk
Marty MacDonald’s Toy Machine show 13 Feb - 2pm Fun, interactive, song-filled adventure, set in a farmyard with lovable puppet characters. Ages2-7yrs. Tickets: Adult £10. Conc £9.50. Family £36
Play in A Day 15 Feb - 10am start, show 7pm Create a fun new piece of theatre in just one day! For primary school years 1-6. Cost: £40 (including 2 show tickets). Additional show tickets £5
What's On Gardner Jack and the Green Beanstalk 16 Feb - 11am, 1pm The most interactive version of Jack and the Beanstalk that you will ever encounter! Tickets: £8. Conc £6. Family £24
SANDPIT THEATRE Sandringham School, The Ridgeway, St Albans, AL4 9NX 01727 370067 x244 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk
Burglar Bill Show 15 Feb - 11am & 2pm Who's that creeping down the street? Who's that coming through the window? Who's that? It's Burglar Bill! Tickets: £8. Conc £6
SPOTLIGHT High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8BE 01992441946 www.broxbourne.gov.uk
Mr Bloom's Nursery Live 10 Feb – 1pm, 4pm 11 Feb - 11am, 2pm Mr Bloom and his Veggies are getting the Nursery ready for a very special occasion. Tickets: Adult £15. Child £13. Family £52. Babes in arms £5
Big Fish Little Fish Flower Power-Themed Family Rave 12 Feb - 2-4pm Multi-sensory dancefloor. Top DJs, club lighting, glow sticks, bubbles, glitter cannon, balloons, giant parachute dance finale. Toddler play space and baby area. Tickets: Adults £9. Child £6. Pre-walking infants free
WATFORD COLOSSEUM Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN, 01923 571102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
Mr Blooms Nursery Live 19 Feb - 11am, 2pm Mr Bloom and his Veggies are getting the Nursery ready for a very special occasion. Age 2-7yrs Tickets: From £11
WYLLYOTTS THEATRE Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar EN6 2HN 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk
Doris the Dragon 16 Feb - 11am, 2pm When the owners of a dingy old castle that Doris the Dragon has been protecting move out, Doris decides to put the empty castle to good use. Ages 3+. Tickets: Adult £8. Child £7.50. Family £30
Outdoor Adventures ALDENHAM COUNTRY PARK Dagger Lane, Elstree, WD6 3AT 020 8953 9602 www.aldenhamcountrypark. co.uk
Chinese New Year of the Rooster Trail 11- 19 Feb Make a wish with a coin in the pond tradition. Plant seasonal flowers. Adopt an animal. Survival skills. Feed the farm animals, petting sessions, pony rides, outdoor adventure play, 100 Aker Wood, Winnie the Pooh. Costs: Various
ASHRIDGE ESTATE Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, HP4 1LX 01494 755557 www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Half Term Trail & Crafts 13 Feb - 10am-3pm Do a craft activity at the Visitor Centre then follow the trail around the woodland. Cost: £3
BENINGTON LORDSHIP GARDENS Benington Lordship, Stevenage, SG2 7BS www.beningtonlordship.co.uk
Snowdrops 8 Feb - 05 Mar - 12-4pm See the gardens carpeted in a spectacular display of snowdrops around the remains of the Norman Castle and moat. Refreshments: Tearoom open Mon-Sats. Sundays in village hall. Cost: £5. Concs £4 (not on Sundays). Under 16s £2. Under 12s Free
HARPENDEN COMMON St Albans Road, Harpenden, AL5 1DT www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk
Wild Woods Day 13 Feb - 11am-3pm Family fun day in the woods. Outdoor activities including den building, crafts, treasure hunts and games. Bring a packed lunch and warm clothing. Booking essential. Cost: Suggested donation £5
Family Conservation Day 17 Feb - 10am-3pm Help with habitat management. Volunteer with your family and carry out practical management tasks on Harpenden Common. Hot drink and biscuit provided. Bring a packed lunch and wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear. Meet at the Cricket Club car park. Under 18s must be accompanied by an adult. Booking essential. Cost: Suggested donation £5
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM AT TRING Akeman Street, Tring, HP23 6AP www.nhm.ac.uk
Tring Park Scavenger Hunt 13 Feb - 10.30am, 2pm This two hour activity includes 20 minute steep walk. Age 5+yrs. Booking required. Free
PANSHANGER PARK Situated between Welwyn GC and Hertford Entrance to park via the Thieves Lane car park located off the A414 nr. Hertford SG14 2WN www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk
Little Love Bugs 14 Feb - 10am-12noon Make a love bug or bird in the woods. The event ends with snacks around the camp fire. Ages 7 and under (with adult). Booking essential. Cost: £5 per child
Brilliant Birds and Birdbox Building 16 Feb - 10am-12noon Look for birds. Make bird feeders, nesting material balls and a bird box too. The event ends with snacks around the camp fire. Ages 4-11 (with adult). Booking essential. Cost: £7 per child (includes a nest box)
Say you saw it in
Scavenger Hunt 17 Feb - 10am-1pm Explore the park and join the scavenger hunt or take your camera and try a photographic scavenger hunt. Then get creative and see what you can make with your finds. Cost: Suggested donation £5
RYE MEADS NATURE RESERVE Rye Road, Stanstead Abbotts, EN11 0EH. www.rspb.org.uk
Feathers, Beaks and Nests Trail 11-19 Feb - 9am-4pm During National Nest Box Week explore this self-guided trail and discover how to help birds as they prepare to nest. Get a sticker and certificate for taking part. Cost: £1 per child
Pond Dipping 11-18 Feb - 9am-4pm What lurks beneath the water? With a net, bowl and ID sheet from the visitor centre you can find out. This is a self-led event and children must be supervised carefully by accompanying adult. Cost: £2 per child.
Family Bird Safari 14 Feb - 10am-12pm; 2-4pm Use binoculars to spot hedgerow and wetland birds. Learn to identify them and how to recognise their song. Make a nest box or log bird feeder to take home. Cost: £6. Child £3. Members: £5 / £2.50.
Messy Welly Club 15 Feb - 10.30-11.45am Get outside into nature and explore the things you find. Messy outdoor play for under 5s with a parent or guardian. Outdoors whatever the weather - dress appropriately in clothes you can get dirty. Booking essential. Cost: £4.50. Members £3.50.
Wildlife Explorers Club 18 Feb - 11am-1pm Outdoor learning followed by arts and crafts or games. Different theme each month. From age 6 (parents of younger children must stay). Booking essential. Cost: £5. Members £3. NOTE: £3 parking charge for non- members (no facilities to take cards)
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National Storytelling Week You’re very active on social media, do you think this new digital age we’re living in has changed the way people tell stories? I think it’s had an impact on the whole of the book business in a lot of ways, some good, some bad. What it has done is given us more access to each other and provides a much more interactive side to telling stories. I tell my #Storytime stories on Twitter, and you really feel as if you’re talking to people, because it’s a very conversational medium, which is its charm.
It’s National Storytelling Week in January. What advice would you give to children or adults if they have a passion for writing and want to take it to the next level?
Image courtesy of Kyte Photography
Author Joanne Harris speaks to Families To mark National Storytelling Week (28th January to 4th February), international bestselling author Joanne Harris spoke to Families about life as a writer, how storytelling has evolved through social media, and gives her advice for those with a passion for writing stories. The success of Chocolat kick-started your career as an author - was it an easy decision to retire from teaching? Writing is generally a job that doesn’t make a lot of money, and nearly all writers have another job. For my first three published books I was a teacher and if one of my books hadn’t been unexpectedly successful I would have stayed a teacher. When you reach a certain level of success it’s very difficult to do the two things at once, so I gave up teaching. I thought then temporarily, and it turned out to be permanent. But it could have been different.
How did it feel when you found out that Chocolat was being made into a film? I didn’t believe it at first, because books get optioned all the time, but very rarely do
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they end up making films. I started to pay attention when they started filming, and when they invited me on set, when it was clear something was actually happening. By then it didn’t really have much to do with me, so I was able to enjoy it in a different way. It was very nicely done, the cast was great, the direction was great, the score was great, and they deserved the success it had.
Do you ever meet people and think they would make a great character in a book? I’m borrowing from people all the time. It’s part of being a writer, using the experiences you have with people and conversations; things you’ve noticed about them, and you filter them through this process. I don’t think I’ve ever actually put someone in a book, but I think we all borrow extensively from other people around us.
How long does it usually take you to write a book? I’m usually working on more than one thing. Some have taken me 10 years to finish, some only one. Some I’ve started and then finished 5,10 or 15 years later. I tend to start things off and then quite often put them on the back burner for a bit, work on something else and then go back. Sometimes I just need to let it lie, do some research, or work out a plot construction.
To be a professional writer you have to write, a lot, and understand that a lot of it will be bad but practice makes you better. So start writing, and don’t worry too much about where you are heading. Also read a lot, because the more you read the more you realise how writing works and why it’s good and why it fails, and just keep improving all the time.
Have you faced any challenges when writing books, and what did you learn from them? It’s useful to keep an open mind. There is no way you can please everyone all the time. Learn to live with criticism even if you think it is unfair and still do what you are doing. If you are absolutely convinced that your book is a masterpiece, but people read it and think it’s rubbish, then there’s probably some truth in it. However, keep believing you can do it, and learn from mistakes, acknowledge them and move on.
Do you have any new books or projects that our readers can look out for? I’ve got an illustrated book of the Storytime stories coming out, hopefully next year, called Honeycomb. I’m also working on a sequel to The Gospel of Loki, which hopefully will come out the year after next. I’ve also got another illustrated project, which may or may not come out next year. For more information on Joanne Harris and her work, go to www.joanne-harris.co.uk
Did you know that Hertfordshire has it's very own storytelling festival? It's called The Fireside Festival and it runs from 30th January until 4th March in Baldock. Find out more at www.firesidefestival.org
Education
How to make maths fun for kids Maths is one of the fundamental skills that all children need to acquire, and there are plenty of ways you can make maths fun through the use of games and maths activities at home. Numeracy targets are fundamental to the National Curriculum and to primary school testing and that can seem as intimidating to you as to your child. But there are some simple strategies you can put in place that can make maths fun for your kids and reinforce how important those life skills are.
Do your homework Before you can support your child's maths learning at home, you'll need to find out about the way they learn maths at school. Do some homework on modern maths methods like number lines and gridding, and find out whether your child's school offers maths support classes for parents. There are resources online like the Family Maths Toolkit (www.familymathstoolkit. org.uk) from National Numeracy
Make it more formal
or the 'Maths for Mums and Dads' books by Mike Askew and Rob Eastaway.
Maths by stealth There are plenty of ways you can incorporate maths into everyday life, which is an excellent way of letting children know how important numeracy skills are outside of the classroom. Next time you have a cake or a pizza, ask them to divide it into quarters or thirds or an equal number of portions for the number of people eating it. Baking isn't just a pleasurable activity to do with your kids, it's one of the very best ways of embedding the importance of weights and measures. They'll also need to keep an eye on the clock to know when their goodies are ready to come out of the oven. Meanwhile, every time you go to the shops, encourage them to add as they go and then make their best estimate of the final bill. From calculating the change they should receive when they buy an ice cream to keeping score in a friendly game of football, everyday maths really is everywhere!
Make tech and tables count There are numerous maths apps available for children of all ages. Doodle Maths and Mr Thorne's Maths Universe should get young mathphobes practising their numeracy on their devices. Percy Parker Sing Your Times Tables and Squeebles Times Tables are both excellent apps for embedding times tables in young brains. For older children facing their end of primary school tests, ensure that they know not just the multipliers but the divisors too, up to 12 x 12.
Try gamification In other words, get out some old fashioned board games. Dominoes is an excellent game for practising basic maths concepts, as is Snakes and Ladders. They'll be having too much fun to notice they're adding and subtracting and recognising basic number patterns. For older children, Monopoly introduces more sophisticated numeracy skills and Scrabble is a brilliant way to practise both numeracy and literacy.
As your children's maths skills progress, you can begin to make their home learning more formalised. There are any number of online maths resources available and your school may encourage at-home use of a programme like Mathletics to challenge and reinforce skills learned in the classroom. These online resources usually feature progressive levels so you can easily track your child's progress but do check before you sign up to a paid programme that it's compatible with the National Curriculum. Although it's easy to assume that children will prefer working on the computer, many also enjoy age-appropriate workbooks, with stickers to reward their progress.
Learn with and from your children As the Family Maths Toolkit (www.familymathstoolkit.org. uk) points out, maths is not a can or cannot subject but something we can all improve, however old we are. When your children bring home maths homework, take the opportunity to learn about new maths concepts from them and show them real world examples of how to put those skills into practice - by checking your shopping or phone bill. Encourage them to contextualise a newly acquired skill by putting it into practice around the home, whether it's telling you the time their favourite TV show comes on or estimating how long their bath takes to run. And always praise their effort rather than their talent, to reinforce the message that by working hard anyone can improve their maths skills. To find out more visit: www. familiesonline.co.uk/education
Centre 4 Excellence
Lockers Park Pre-Prep Open Morning Saturday 18th March 2017 - 10:30am-12:30pm Lockers Park is a day and boarding school for boys aged 7-13 in Hemel Hempstead with a thriving Pre-Prep for boys and girls aged 4-7. The school holds an excellent academic reputation and prides itself on preparing pupils for the country’s leading public and independent senior schools. Small class sizes, a focus on outdoor play and a commitment to building self-
esteem and self-confidence combine to create a unique school where every child counts. Come along for a morning of activities and crafts, where littles ones can get involved and explore the theme of ‘People Who Help Us’… visit the vet’s surgery, dress up like a policeman or make your own emergency vehicle . Mums and dads will have the opportunity to meet
Headmaster Christopher Wilson and Pre-Prep staff. Find out more at www.lockerspark.herts.sch.uk
Say you saw it in
Are you trying to find the cause of your child's learning difficulties? It may seem that your child is not trying, nor paying attention, is easily distracted and able to easily follow instructions. At Centre 4 Excellence we can help your child to unlock his/her potential, we have some fantastic results. Our programmes are suitable for all children with all abilities and learning issues. Contact Florence on 07919 067343
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Education
Storytime Phonics – linking reading with fun
A fearless start to the year Why fearless you might ask? And what does this even mean? For us, a child’s educational journey goes beyond acing a quick spelling test or getting to the top of the class for a term. It is about building longlasting confidence that takes them through their entire life, whether it is through developing a ‘have a go attitude’, or knowing it’s ok to put their hand up without fear of a ‘silly’ question being mocked, or simply feeling excited about their next step. It’s about nurturing a sense of pride, and a fearless attitude to learning, so that every child can become their version of amazing. Our incredible tutors are there to support every step of the way. Rather than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’, they will ask: “are you sure?” or “can you convince me of your answer?”, allowing children to explore and push the boundaries of their thinking each day. To celebrate the new year and all of the potential it brings, we would like to offer you a little something to help your child along their fearless learner journey. From the 16th January until the 28th February, you’ll save £50 when you join any one of our maths and English tuition centres. To find your nearest centre and book a free trial go to explorelearning.co.uk/offer or call 030 3003 4006.
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St Francis’ College, in Hitchin, has introduced a new, holistic, whole class approach to learning to read through Storytime Phonics in their Reception class. Storytime Phonics is an inclusive synthetic, whole-class phonic reading and writing programme based on Letters and Sounds, for all children learning to read and write in the Foundation Stage. This programme enables the teacher to empower and engage the whole class, regardless of ability, on a multi-sensory journey where learning phonics has a purpose. Each sound has an action linked to the story, so children remember and relate the sound directly to the book. Mrs Jo Day, Head of Early Years commented “This approach to teaching phonics has been used along-side other methods of
teaching reading but it has really inspired our girls. We have given children memorable experiences which connect learning to read with pleasure. It is amazing to see the fun pupils are having while learning!”
Professional one to one tutoring Fleet Tutors has been matching the right tutor to the education needs of students across the UK since 1977. Our network of tutors are subject specialists who tailor the teaching and learning experience to relieve any subject specific anxieties and help build your child’s confidence so they achieve a successful outcome. To find out more call 0333 920 2458.
Say you saw it in
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Education
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