FAMILIES HAMPSHIRE NORTH Mar/Apr 22 Print

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IN THIS ISSUE

Education Clubs & Classes What’s On Easter Crafts

Issue 49 March/April 2022 March/April 2022

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire North

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CONTENTS

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CONTENTS

Welcome We’re really looking forward to spring here at Families and in preparation, here’s our Easter magazine.

Issue 49 I March/April 2022

Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk 07812 218 331

With fuel bills rocketing, saving energy is on everyone’s mind. Get the kids involved in cutting the cost and easing pressure on the environment – read our suggestions on how to do this.

Are you nervously waiting to find out the results of your school application? We have suggestions on what to do if you don’t get your first choice. Also, find out more about Forest School. Plus, embrace going out with some great entertainment options from our What’s On guide.

Printed by Holbrooks Printers Ltd.

Finally, we have lots of Doodlejamz to give away! Apply for this squishy, squashy, sensory – but mess-free - drawing toy for your child. And, if you haven’t signed up to receive our digital magazine and enjoy additional, interactive content, you can do this at familiesmag.co.uk/go to receive every issue free to your inbox.

Next issue May/June Booking deadline 4 April

Rebeccca Editor, Families Hampshire North

Published 6 times per year. If you would like free copies contact us.

Cover image Shutterstock © Families Hampshire North Magazine 2022.

Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Print Ltd. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but Families Print Ltd, its distributors, franchisees and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequences thereof.

Nurture

Opportunity

In this issue 4. Clubs & Casses

10. Staycations

6. Meet the Head

11.

7. Education

12. What’s On

8. Forest School Learning

14. Top Apps for Parents

9. Early years

15. Easter Crafts

Saving Power

Growth

Maisie Story Writer Musician Swimmer Baker

Come and join our family school Open Mornings

Saturday 19th March Friday 29th April

admissions@yateleymanor.com March/April 2022

Yateley Manor www.yateleymanor.com Families Hampshire North

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Perform classes will build your child’s confidence

After School and holiday clubs with Youth Options

Perform puts children’s social development at the heart of their weekly sessions for 4-7s and 7-12s. Using performing arts-based games and inspiring activities, their classes are designed to boost confidence, build concentration, develop communication skills and hone coordination – and are brimming with fun and laughter too.

Youth Options has been providing breakfast, after school and holiday clubs for Andover families for 27 years.

Run by professionally trained actors, dancers and singers, classes are kept small to ensure individual attention, with regular progress reports provided. Fantastic termly resources – such as free apps, music downloads and dance videos - support each theme, meaning the fun continues at home.

All settings are registered with OFSTED and all Youth Options staff work within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) guidelines.

The beaming smile you see when Annabelle finishes a class is so wonderful to see. She has grown in confidence and thoroughly enjoys it. – Katie Pashley

The Scott Centre in Andover, offer’s a range of activities such as sports, arts and crafts, social time, computer activities, a homework area, a quiet area and outside play.

Their highly trained and dedicated staff will deliver a variety of arts and crafts, sporting activities and games. Plus, they also take children on some great days out during the holidays.

For more information or to book a place, email scottcentre@youthoptions.org.uk or visit youthoptions.org.uk

Children can join at any point during the term and will still take part in the end of term performance. Classes are for all abilities.

Book a no-obligation FREE trial class at Andover, Basingstoke, Bramley, Fleet or Hartley Whitney at perform.org.uk/try. Families readers receive a £40 discount when booking before 31 March, just quote HN310322.

Jubilee Jets Holiday Club More about Perform’s weekly classes

Jubilee Jets is an action-packed holiday club for primary school children based in Padworth, West Berkshire.

Confidence building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s.

A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and co-ordination.

Every day is filled with a great range of activities on offer such as arts and crafts, baking or construction. There are toys and games, sports, team games or seasonally themed activities to choose from.

Local class venues:

Unlike some holiday clubs, Jets think children should be able to choose how, what and with whom they play. There are always new friends to make and a wonderfully caring team ensure each child enjoys their day.

Andover: Andover Leisure Centre, SP10 1QP Basingstoke: Beggarwood Community Centre, RG22 4AQ Bramley: Clift Meadow Pavillion, RG26 5BH Fleet: Zebon Community Centre, GU52 0ZE Hartley Whitney: Victoria Halls, RG27 8RQ Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class, email enquiries@perform.org.uk or call 020 7255 9120. Don’t forget the code HN310322 for a £40 saving!

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Jets provides a real opportunity for children to indulge their creativity through imaginative play, innovative thinking and unscheduled playtime! Created in 2004, they have welcomed thousands of children and continue to ensure they have a happy, fun-filled holiday!

To find out more or to book a place, call 0118 983 4018, email info@jubileejets.co.uk or visit www.jubileejets.co.uk March/April 2022

CLUBS & CLASSES

Stagecoach Easter workshop Children and teenagers can make friends, have fun and develop some great new skills singing, dancing and acting at Stagecoach’s Easter Workshop. Work with professional actors putting on a musical using your favourite shows. For ages 4-18 years. Workshops take place at Sherfield School, Sherfield on London from 11-14 April or Stockton House School in Fleet from 19-22 April.

Sibling discounts are available as well as childcare vouchers, tax free and universal credit payments. For more information email fleet@stagecoach.co.uk Don’t forget you can still sign up to join the regular weekly Early Stages and Main Stage classes.

For classes in Yateley or Camberley call Sarah on 07824 999414, or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/yateley For classes in Fleet or Basingstoke call Danica on 01252 410 625, or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/fleet

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Easter holiday activity Club at Queen Mary’s College Join Queen Mary’s College from Mon 11 - Thu 14 April and Tues 19 - Fri 22 April for thier children’s holiday activity club for ages 7–11 years.

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

Sporting Stars runs Monday to Friday from 8.30am-4.30pm.

Children will take part in a wide range of activities that will vary on a daily basis so no day will be the same. They swim every day at 11am, so make sure to pack swim wear! Activities include football, basketball, badminton, rounder’s, kwik cricket and much more.

Creative and Esports Stars runs Monday to Friday from 8.30– 11am. These workshops offer the opportunity to get creative or compete in the gaming arena. Children can stay the whole day and join our main activity group for a swim and range of sporting activities for just £10 extra!

Visit www.qmc.ac.uk/sports.centre or call 01256 418301 for more information.

March/April 2022

Families Hampshire North

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EDUCATION

Meet the Head

Meet the Head

Special feature

Families chats with Robert Upton, Head of the Yateley Manor School.

How do you think a Head can make a real difference to an individual pupil?

What attracted you to Yateley Manor School?

I was looking for a school that reflected my values. The sense of community was palpable as soon as I entered the school for the first time and continues to impress new parents and visitors to this very day.

On different levels really – at a strategic level a Head should be identifying actions which will enhance learning or wellbeing.

But I am not an office-based Head. I like to be out and about during the day, in classes with the children and staff, supervising snack time in the morning, for example.

That way I can make a real difference to individual children. I know every child by name and I know what is happening in their lives. I think that is really important.

How do you think your students would describe you?

I hope they view me as fair, supportive and fun. I want children to enjoy their school days and if that means me leading a whole school dance from the rooftop (which was a lot of fun) then I will.

In what way is Yateley Manor different from other schools?

What was it about Yateley Manor that made you want to apply for the position?

It was already an excellent school but, as with all schools, there is always room for improvement. I knew I could make a difference for the children with a dedicated focus on the detail. The strong family ethos reassured me that this was a school where children came first.

What do you think are the key skills that children should be mastering at the start of their school journey?

In the early stages of childhood it is vital that children develop social skills that lay the foundations for future development.

The ability to be independent, to share and to empathise or understand the feelings of others will mean that children have the best start in their educational journey. Early childhood development should instil a love for learning.

How would you describe the ethos of Yateley Manor School?

Many schools profess to having a family feel, which is easy to say. It is far more difficult to live that ethos daily, but I truly feel that we have that strong sense of family at Yateley Manor. Like all families, everyone has different passions and interests; everyone needs support from

time to time. There is a commitment for every child to achieve their very best in all areas of their schooling. Finding the inner flame within every child, which ignites their passions and interests, is a key focus for staff because that grows confidence in children.

What are the qualities of a great teacher?

Relationships. The foundations of a great teacher (and school) lie in the quality of relationships forged between teacher and child (and their family). If we know when to challenge a child and when to support them; if we know what is happening in the child’s life that is having an impact on their learning; if we know where the child’s talents and interests lie, then their learning will soar.

What does being a Head mean to you?

I feel an enormous sense of responsibility for the children, families and staff. As a community I want everyone to enjoy their time in school. It is a huge privilege to be a part of so many lives and I am so proud of everybody within the school community.

Visitors always comment on the warmth and authenticity from the staff. We have an array of amazing facilities, like most schools, but it is the genuine, unwavering support for the individual child that sets us apart.

How do you help pupils who need extra academic support?

First we focus on getting the quality of teaching correct in the classroom. If children require additional support, there are a range of interventions used for small groups. We also have a dedicated Learning Support department for any further support.

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

Ultimately we want to ensure we are at the cutting edge of education but also respond to the changing needs of our families in the local area.

If you weren’t Head of Yateley Manor School, what would you be?

I would work as a counsellor for young people. There is a huge demand in this area nowadays.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A windsurfing instructor.

What is your most useless skill?

I can fold a crisp packet into a triangle.

What is your real-life superpower?

Smiling!

A book or a movie?

Movie, but I might fall asleep.

Sport or Last Night at the Proms?

Football – Brighton and Hove Albion every time.

Visit www.yateleymanor.com to find out more about Yateley Manor school

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March/April 2022

EDUCATION

Help, we didn’t get our first choice school!

By Emma Lewry School allocation day is almost upon us. In England, secondary school places are announced on 1 March. Then, during April, those who have applied for a primary school place will find out their designated school. Thankfully, almost ninety two percent of families are given their first-choice primary school and ninety eight percent get one of their listed preferences. In secondary, ninety six percent of students get one of their listed schools. But what about those who do not get their first choice or even any preferences? How can you deal with the fallout from not getting a choice you planned for? Here are three suggestions: Give the allocated option a chance If you do not know much about the school, get nosey on their website and give them a call see if you can visit. In many cases, second or third choice allocations turn out to be brilliant and families are really pleased with the decision. Give the school a chance, it might work for you!

Manage disappointment Sometimes the biggest issue is managing the disappointment you and your child might feel. Look after yourself and take some time to be sad, angry and frustrated; these are important and valid feelings. Communicating positively with your child is important if you can, so they don’t feel nervous about their new school.

Get on the waiting lists Plenty changes between the spring and September and there is still a good chance you can get a space at your first choice school or another you feel happier about. Depending on your local authority procedures, you may automatically go on a waiting list or you may need to request this with your local authority or directly with the school.

If you are still feeling unsure about the school options, there is time to look at other schools and request a change. Both starting school and moving to secondary are big events and you need to feel as happy about them as you can. There are also options to appeal; although this can be challenging, it may be worth a shot.

Again, your local authority website should explain the appeals process.

Emma Lewry is an Early Years teacher, former Headteacher and mum to two little girls. Emma co-owns Every Day’s a School Day (www.edasd.co.uk/links) which supports families to prepare for starting school through groups, courses and a school starters planner available from Amazon.

Telling your child

Appealing a decision

Where possible, after taking a little time to process your own feelings, tell your child with a positive spin. Explain to them that there is a different school that wants them to join.

Each local authority has an appeals procedure to follow and this can be found on their website.

Find some specific things about the school they will love and show younger children pictures of happy children and fun activities on the school website. For older children, visit the website together to look at what is on offer.

Give them some examples of times when a change or difference in a plan has been good, for example ‘it was raining on our walk but we found some great puddles.’ Children of all ages are really receptive to these examples of bigger life lessons and it gives an opportunity to talk about how they feel.

Stories are a great way to explore feelings and talk about sadness and disappointment. Top recommendations for little ones are: The Colour Monster by Anna Lennas and for older children No Worries, an activity book by Dr Sharie Combes or You are Awesome by Matthew Syed.

March/April 2022

It will explain how to appeal and what reasons you can use for appeal. It is quite difficult to be successful with an appeal and in most cases, this only happens where children have additional needs which cannot be supported in any other setting. In a nutshell, if you appeal a decision, you are effectively asking a school which is full to remove a child from that allocation and move them to a different school. As you can imagine, that is an unlikely scenario.

It can be worth going through the process though, as there are situations in which schools may take on more children if they are able to and by appealing, you are showing you are serious about wanting a place at that school.

Once you appeal, the case will be heard by a panel, you may be invited to the hearing and you will be given a decision with reasons.

Families Hampshire North

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EDUCATION

Forest School for wellbeing

By Sarah Lawfull Nature is good for us, lockdowns in the UK have taught us this. In a survey related to the pandemic, eighty three percent of children said being in nature makes them happy.1 However, despite recommendations from early years experts that children need at least two hours of physical play outdoors every day, many barely get two hours a week.

Throughout the history of childhood there have been champions of learning with nature. A magnificent example is the Duke of Edinburgh scheme set up to build resilience in teenagers through physical challenge in wild spaces. Forest School is another champion of learning with nature and has been enjoyed by home-schooling parents and families with toddlers for many years now.

As a response to the pandemic, many more nurseries, schools and alternative provisions are turning to Forest School. Nature provides a multi-sensory environment for children. A woodland offers both a physical challenge and an opportunity to relax.

Since the mid–1990s, early years educators have championed this person-centred and play-based approach. Now, nature as a therapy has become a valid response to the stresses of the pandemic and mounting levels of mental ill-health because of its emotional and social benefits.

Good quality Forest School programmes are founded on key principles that give experience of all seasons and all weathers to encourage a connection to nature. Led by specially qualified leaders, Forest School empowers children to manage their own risks, minimising the ecological impact of their activities whilst learning to care for nature around them. It offers children and young people real problems to solve and time to think in a place of acceptance and belonging.

Setting up or finding a Forest School

The Forest School Association (www.forestschoolassociation. org) (FSA) is the professional body for the Forest School community in the UK and its members promote best practice and the provision of ‘Quality Forest School for All.’ The FSA has a directory of recognised providers who value and are committed to providing a Forest School that meets the ethos and principles agreed by the wider Forest School community.

Find this at www.bit.ly/ForestSchoolProviders Where it is hard to find a Forest School programme, parents and childminders are sometimes choosing to train as leaders themselves. The FSA website also has a list of endorsed trainers.

It’s important to find a trainer that gives ongoing support and provides access to a supportive learning community.

There are also local affiliated Forest School Association groups that welcome new members, meeting regularly to provide mutual support. These are a useful source of information if you are seeking a Forest School toddler group or want to find a school that provides Forest School as part of the mainstream curriculum. Find at www.bit.ly/ForestSchoolGroups

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A study by Liverpool University2 found that Forest School improved children’s levels of physical activity, happiness and sense of wellbeing. Through climbing trees safely, persevering to light a fire in the rain and cooking and sharing food, participants build confidence and understand and manage their own emotions.

Whilst Covid lockdowns stole the freedoms of many children, it gifted others with time in their gardens or nearest parks and the opportunity to use their bodies as they explored and connected with the natural world. Parents and teachers are seeing their children and teenagers becoming braver and empowered to learn from mistakes; they are regaining curiosity and learning to live well.

Sarah Lawfull is an Education Consultant, Coach, Forest School Trainer and Forest School Association Chair.

1. www.gov.uk/government/statistics/the-people-and-nature-survey-for-england-child-datawave-1-experimental-statistics/the-people-and-nature-survey-for-england-childrens-surveyexperimental-statistics 2. www.researchgate.net/publication/327801925_Exploring_Gender_Differences_within_Forest_ Schools_as_a_Physical_Activity_Intervention

Photos by Coco Jones.

Benefits for emotional health

Children engaged in woodland settings are more likely to interact and socialise as part of a group, as demonstrated by Forest School research.

‘You learn how to get along with people, good teamwork.

Working on things you could never normally do in school.’ (Year 8 student) This is particularly of value to children with varying emotional health, since the forest setting can help stabilise anger, which is linked to reduced physical and mental health, depression and increased antisocial behaviour .

‘It’s a school but different because there’s trees to climb. You have a lot more freedom at Forest School, you’re allowed to run a lot.’ (Year 4 student) Many children and young people struggle with the classroom environment and for those with emotional and social difficulties it can be especially hard.

‘All the children have had successes at Forest School and that helps to build their resilience in class where they often struggle.’

(Senior School Leader) March/April 2022

EARLY YEARS

Play for nurturing emotional intelligence

By Dr Anne Lane When my daughter was in her first year at nursery her favourite game was pretending to say goodbye to me. ‘Bye Mama, I’ve got to go. I’ll see you later.’ ‘Oh no! You’re not going...’ I’d say after her, ‘I don’t want you to go!’ The more I sighed ‘Don’t go,’ the more she’d giggle and run off. Thus reassured, we were ready for our day.

Little moments of play like this helped my daughter process her separation from me at nursery from a space of safety and connection.

For a child, life can be full of emotional demands; from the strains of separation from you, to new friendships, periods of uncertainty and family changes.

As a parent and psychologist, one of the most effective and fun ways I have found to help children navigate experiences and the difficult emotions that come with these is through this process of play. Simple, giggly, repetitive play helps children develop a resilience and familiarity with situations which can dispel tension and anxiety.

So how does play work?

Play is serious work for your child. The process of role-playing real scenarios allows them to reflect on their reactions and beliefs about a situation. They can steady their emotions and become more nuanced and agile in their reactions.

in the world of play, they get to switch things around and feel empowered. They can explore and try different things. The play scenario can be ridiculous, funny, amusing - tense and tight emotions soften and ease.

Against this background of safety and security, your child can become more comfortable making suggestions and changing things, allowing their understanding of situations to develop.

They’re the boss, they call the shots and decide how a situation goes. From this place of safety, they revisit difficult experiences without feeling vulnerable or uncertain.

In role playing and playing out different scenarios with them, your child comes to know you as someone who can understand and relate to their experience. They feel steady and secure.

Dr Anne Lane is a clinical psychologist and author. Her new book Nurture Your Child’s Emotional Intelligence: 5 Steps to Help Your Child Cope with Big Emotions and Build Resilience is out now.

The most important aspect of play is that it feels safe. In the real world, things are unpredictable. People can be abrupt and cross and make your child feel vulnerable and uncertain. But

March/April 2022

Families Hampshire North

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TRAVEL

Are staycations here to stay?

By Claire Winter hotels and foreign locales may seem, I also love being in the UK. There are no stresses of air travel, you can have all the home comforts to hand and jet lag isn’t an issue.

Staycations are fast becoming part of family life and many families experienced holidaying in the UK for the first time during the last two years.

For many, myself included, it meant discovering a new love for Britain’s varied coastline, beautiful cities and countryside.

Over lockdown we realised that with a bit of imagination you can have a lot of fun.

We camped in our garden for four nights without returning to our house once.

But this was made easier as we have a motorhome in the driveway! We hunted for bugs, set camera traps for badgers and birds, made maps, did treasure hunts, built shelters and campfires and stargazed.’

Author and Coach, Eleanor Tweddell (www.eleanortweddell.com) lives in the Lake District with her husband and daughter, age 6. She’s on the fence about

While some families will continue to travel abroad, the uncertainty and increased costs will mean that many opt to stay in the UK in 2022 too.

staycations.

‘Staycations have been a bit hit and miss for us. We’ve tried the traditional B&B above a pub for a short getaway. It felt like a good idea, with the promise of a log fire, hearty meals and beautiful walks along a seafront. The reality was a stressed landlord, an unlit fire and walks that would’ve been good if the howling wind let up for a moment!

Our next trip was more considered.

We found a beautiful hotel with dinner included. The other trick was to make the journey to our destination part of the trip.

We planned a scenic route, stopping off at a farm shop for lunch. This set us up for a whole different experience. I’ll be keeping staycations in my holiday plans for the future.’

Staycation fan, presenter, adventurer and ambassador for Bailey of Bristol, Andy Torbet (www.andytorbet.com) lives in the Wye Valley with his wife Bex and their two lively sons ages 6 and 4.

‘I love staycations because I work away from home a lot and as glamorous as

Endless creations at your child’s fingertips!

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March/April 2022

ENVIRONMENT

Involving children in saving power

By Angela Terry The climate crisis is hot news, energy prices are soaring and families are feeling the pain. With nearly a quarter of the UK’s carbon emissions created by our homes, there’s no better time to instil good energy-saving habits in our children, help the environment and reduce energy bills. Luckily, there are many creative ways of doing this so you don’t need to resort to nagging. Here are some suggestions: Measure your household carbon footprint To put energy saving into context, find a free online calculator and measure your household carbon footprint. Start a family art project, drawing a big foot and recording the date and the number of tonnes of emissions generated by your household. As you work together to reduce your footprint, you can update your achievements periodically, getting your children to draw smaller and smaller feet. Display your feet in a row along a wall to chart your progress.

Get children to write the rules Go through each room in your house with the kids and ask them to pinpoint all the potential sources of wasted energy. Draw up a list together and agree a set of family rules that you’re all going to stick to, like switching off appliances that aren’t in use and keeping all curtains closed at night. Ownership of the rules should help motivate kids to follow them.

Rewards To help younger children stick to your rules, try a reward chart with stickers. If they stick to them for a week, you can then give them a special eco treat, like a bee hotel for the garden or a packet of sunflower seeds to plant together. Older children and teens are more likely to be motivated by money, so agree a small weekly financial reward. Given how much energy prices are increasing, this will still save you money overall.

Appoint monitors Allocate specific roles to each child. One could be the curtain monitor, ensuring all curtains are pulled shut at dusk, stopping extra energy seeping out of windows as the temperature drops.

Likewise, another child could be the thermostat monitor and check it isn’t set above nineteen degrees Celsius. Children can

also check that bedrooms and little-used rooms are not being heated unnecessarily by turning down their radiator valves.

Finally, a socket monitor could make sure all appliances not in use are switched off at the wall.

Time showers Make a game of it when it comes to cutting hot water usage by timing each other in the shower to see who can be the quickest – whilst still actually getting clean, of course!

Screen time Screen time limits can be one of the greatest sources of tension between parents and children. Building in an energy saving component can help. Explain to your children that the carbon footprint of our gadgets, the internet and the systems supporting them is nearly four percent of global emissions - greater than those from aviation. If they stick to agreed limits, offer to reward them with an outing to the park or a hot chocolate in a cafe.

Set an example One of the best things you can do, is role model ultra-efficient energy usage. Children are like sponges and imitate those they’re closest to. Make sure you do everything you’re asking them to do and ask them to remind you if you forget. They’ll love the sense of responsibility (and telling you what to do!).

Angela Terry is an environmental scientist and founder of One Home (www.onehome.org.uk), the UK’s first consumer climate action hub.

Draught hunting...

Smarten up your saving

Of course, you want to save energy but simultaneously make your home as insulated and cosy as possible. Encourage your children to come on a draught hunt with you, searching for any leaks around windows or doors. When you find some, enlist their help in a bit of easy DIY, sealing them with inexpensive rubber trim, available from most DIY shops. If cold air is seeping under the front door, do some ‘draught craft’ and make a snake draught excluder together. YouTube has lots of helpful tutorials.

A smart meter is a great visual tool. Once you’ve had one installed, use it to show your children when you’re using the most energy and how much it’s costing. Set targets to reduce your monthly usage and bills. Explain that just by turning down your thermostat by one degree saves an average of £80 per year. The ideal temperature is nineteen degrees Celsius.

Set targets and treat yourselves to a family games night or outing whenever you hit them.

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CHILDREN’S THEATRE

What's On

listings for all the family

To promote your local event, coffee morning, nearly new sale, parenting courses or community group in the next What’s On listing. Email editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk.

Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check details of the events before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.

Don’t forget to sign up for our digital magazine for more interactive content at familiesmagazine.co.uk/go All listings correct at the time of going to print. Please check with the venue before visiting to ensure events are still going ahead and venues are open.

Unti Sun 13 March Science Chefs Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ Find out what makes a chemical reaction. Explore the chemistry of snacks and how different foods supply your body with different amounts of energy.

Throughout March & April Superworm Trail Alice Holt, Farnham, GU10 4LS Join Superworm and friends on their brand-new adventure at Alice Holt Forest. Discover the small but mighty creatures in the much-loved story and learn about the everyday heroic feats of minibeasts in the forest. Ages 3+.

Throughout March & April Brick by Brick Willis Museum, Basingstoke, RG21 7QD BRICK BY BRICK presents an exciting display of artwork by international artists, designers and photographers who use LEGO® bricks as their medium or inspiration. There are a whole range of opportunities for visitors to get creative with construction bricks, including a LEGO® wall and a mystery word trail. 10am-4pm.

Free but donations welcome.

Sun 13 March Dear Zoo The Haymarket Basingstoke, RG21 7NW Lots of laughs and audience interaction, Dear Zoo is the perfect introduction to theatre for young children. Ages 2+.

Sat 19 March - Sun 8 May Planet Protectors Winchester Science Centre, SO21 1HZ Celebrate 20 years of science at WSC with fun facts and

explosive demos on how fashion can affect the climate.

Sat 26 & Sun 27 March Mother’s Day Milestones Museum, Basingstoke RG22 6PG Bring mum to Milestones to wander the cobbled streets and enjoy a special Mother’s Day cream tea.

Sun 26 March Ugg ‘n’ Ogg and The World’s First Dogg Phoenix Theatre Arts & Arts Centre, Bordon, GU35 0LR The mind-boggling tale of how two Yorkshire hunter-gatherers palled up with the wolves and saved us from doglessness. Ages 3+. 2.30pm.

Super worm

Trail

m Join Superwor w ne dan br a on ail at interactive tr st re Alice Holt Fo

Sat 2 - Sun 24 April Garden Birds Egg Hunt Gilbert White’s House & Garden Selborne, GU34 3JH Find ten eggs hidden in Gilbert White’s Garden and spot the odd one out to claim a chocolate egg!

Learn about our native birds and their nesting habits as you hunt out the eggs. £3 and entrance fee.

Fri 8 - Tue 19 April Animal Paradise LEGO® Festival Place Basingstoke, RG21 7LJ Discover and learn about endangered animals from around the world. See more on page 13.

Sat 9 - Sun 24 April Easter Egg Hunt The Vyne, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL This spring, treat your little ones to a world of adventures at The Vyne on the Easter adventures in nature trails. 10am-3pm. £3 + admission.

Sat 9 - Sun 24 April Play Days: Games at the Museum Milestones Museum, Basingstoke RG22 6PG Enjoy fun and games through the years with traditional fairground features like hoopla and hook the duck, then see how arcade games have transformed through time, from penny machines to Pac-Man. Tue 12 April Kathakali Phoenix Theatre Arts & Arts Centre, Bordon, GU35 0LR A breath-taking blend of theatre, dance, drama, stunning costumes, beautiful makeup, and storytelling Ages 6+.

Make a superhero headquarters the creatures for in your garden

Share

your photos

#SuperwormTrail Forestry England

forestryengland.uk/ superworm

You will need: Natural items such as stones, wood, grass, leaves Coloured paper

Pens/colouring Scissors

pencils

A stick Tape

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How to make

Super er burrow

and all forerpower ! mask a supeyour Pick it to stick

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the headquar

Use your scissors to cut a creature headquartersout sign from your coloured paper, and your pens decorate it using or pencils.

Tape your headquarters sign to your stick.

Find a sheltered spot in your garden natural itemsand place your pile or house in either a shape.

orm Superw activities ©2012 & TM

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Supe

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Toad

fast

Call

Julia Donaldson/

4.

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Stick your sign in the ground next headquarters,to your inviting the creatures to come inside.

Come back see if any later to creatures have moved in!

©2012

& TM

recycle Julia

/ Axel

er. Licensed Scheffl

by Magic

Light

Pictures

Type of creature: Amphibian. both on land They live and in water Diet: Slugs, snails, spiders, worms, ants 10-12 years

Lifespan: Ltd

Please recycle

Donaldson

Listen out

©2012 &

TM Julia

Donaldson/

Axel Scheffl er.

Toads make a high-pitched “qwark-qwark ” sound. They are particularly noisy in spring when they return to ponds to find a mate.

Thu 21 April The Wizard of Oz Easter Panto The Anvil, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR Follow the Yellow Brick Road to The Anvil for the fantastic Easter pantomime version of The Wizard of Oz! Packed with brilliant dance routines, well known pop songs, lots of audience participation and plenty of laughter for all the family!

Sat 30 April Twirlywoos Live The Haymarket Basingstoke, RG21 7NW Join Great BigHoo, Toodloo, Chickedy, Chick, and their friends as they discover the wonderful world around us! The funny, loveable Twirlywoos are brought to life on stage with beautifully inventive puppetry, promising an hour of colourful fun and laughter.

Saturday 26 March 2.30pm

Welcom superhe e roes!

Axel Scheffl er.

Creature fact cards

Key facts

Please

Mon 18 - Wed 20 April The Tiger Who Came to Tea Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-along songs and clumsy chaos! A stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem...

The mind-boggling tale of how two Yorkshire huntergatherers palled up with the wolves and saved us from doglessness. A hilarious new play for the whole family.

At home activities

Superh

ero headquar ters

Thu 14 April Kids Club Craft Easter Workshop Phoenix Theatre Arts & Arts Centre, Bordon, GU35 0LR Messy fun for ages 5-9 years.

Booking essential on 01420 472664. £5 per child.

and.uk

forestryengl

With fun trail pack

Box Office 01420 472664 www.phoenixarts.co.uk

Find out more at: forestryengland.uk/superworm © 2012 & TM Julia Donaldson / Axel Scheffler. Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd.

12

Families Hampshire North

The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre Station Road, Bordon, GU35 0LR

March/April 2022

WHAT’S ON

Go wild at Festival Place this Easter Come face-to-face with an African lion, Bengal tiger and a giant panda at Festival Place in Basingstoke this Easter.

The retail and leisure destination will host the BRICKLIVE Animal Paradise model trail from 8-19 April, giving visitors the chance to learn about endangered animals from around the world.

BRICKLIVE has used hundreds of thousands of brightly coloured bricks to hand build 15 models also including an orangutan, macaw, dolphin and snow leopard.

Garden Birds Egg Hunt Easter Fun at Gilbert White's House!

Use this voucher for one free child.

Valid April 2022 only.

Festival Place is inviting explorers to track these incredible animals through wildlands, across snow and ice, over the ocean and through the jungle. They can record their adventures at jeep and ice cap selfie zones. Each model will have an information stand with facts about the animal alongside the number of bricks used to build the statue and how long it took.

Trail maps will be available to collect from the Customer Lounge or can be downloaded via the website prior to the event.

Visit www.festivalplace.co.uk for more information..

Enjoy some theatre fun this Easter at The Phoenix Theatre Arts & Centre This Spring, The Phoenix Theatre & Arts Centre is packed full of shows, events and activities which you and your family will love. Puppet shows, panto, storytelling and crafty workshops are on offer throughout the season, guaranteed to bring lots of wonder, excitement, fun and laughter at Hampshire’s friendliest little theatre.

GU34 3JH www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

The wonderful company that brought you The Hug and Arthur’s Dreamboat are back in the summer with Du Iz Tak? – a wonderful puppet show told though the language of insects.

An absolute joy for teeny theatre goers. Cinderella and football are the theme of their panto, out of season but with all the traditional silliness and fun.

To find out more or to book visit www.phoenixarts.co.uk

Planet Protectors at Winchester Science Centre Grab your velour tracksuit and put on your tinted sunglasses.

Winchester Science Centre continues its celebration of 20 years of science wow by taking visitors back to the ‘stylish’ days of 2002.

Between Saturday 19 March and Sunday 8 May, including the Easter school holiday, visitors will be recruited to the Planet Protectors, a team of noughties eco-fashion warriors. Fun facts and explosive demos will bring to life how fashion can affect the climate. Visitors can also blast off into the Solar System in the Planetarium, get hands-on with the two floors of interactive exhibits and head outside into nature in Bio:Space.

And that’s not all.... There are two brand new shows ready to blast visitors off on an adventure in the Planetarium. Head off on an outof-this-world family journey in the live show, Atmospheres. Every planet is unique, including our own.

For more information visit WinchesterScienceCentre.org March/April 2022

Families Hampshire North

13

PARENTING

Top apps every parent needs

By Ari Last It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the number of apps available in the App Store and give up before you’ve even started looking for something.

When it comes to parenting though, getting good apps on speed dial can really save time if you’re looking to keep the children entertained, connect with other like-minded parents, research childcare options or seek guidance on how to make family life just that little bit easier.

Here are some recommendations: Family Locator https://family-locator.com When older children or teenagers are out and about, keep track of their location with this app which keeps your family secure and connected, for extra peace of mind.

CBeebies www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies This staple app on any parent’s phone or tablet offers both educational games as well as classic cartoons for when you just need a break!

Mush www.letsmush.com The number one social app for mums to find friends who live nearby with kids the same age, arrange to meet up and get advice from parenting experts and peers.

The Wonder Weeks www.bit.ly/WonderWeeksApp A week-by-week guide to your baby’s development right through from pregnancy to after birth, showing how you can support and stimulate your little one.

Allrecipes Dinner Spinner https://dish.allrecipes.com/ mobile-apps A handy bank of recipes and cooking inspiration which keeps solving the ‘what can I make for dinner?’ question and keeps little bellies satisfied every evening.

Sound Sleeper www.soundsleeperapp.com Help your baby get off to sleep with this app’s collection of calming sounds.

Kidday www.kidday.com The easiest way to store your child’s photographs in one place, as well as share albums with friends and family.

Get our digital mag! IT’S

FREE!

FRE

TAK

Ari Last is a parenting guru and founder of childcare app Bubble. For more information, visit www.joinbubble.com

Distributor Wanted Are you looking for some extra income? Do you have a few hours spare over 1 - 2 days every two months within school hours?

IN THIS ISSUE

Education Activities Health Family food

familiesonline.co

Sign up at familiesmag.co.uk/go .uk

Families Hampshire North

E

HOME

OLIO www.olioex.com Here you can give away unwanted kids’ items to those in the local area, allowing you to help out a neighbour and reduce waste. You can also use the app to look for anything you might happen to need and save some pennies.

Andover and Overton area

Jan/Feb 2022

14

E ME

Bubble www.joinbubble.com The UK’s biggest ondemand childcare platform, with over 100,000 users and 5-star Trustpilot rating.

Find, book and pay local sitters or nannies who come recommended from their friends and other parents in their area.

Families Magazine is looking for a distributor to deliver our magazine to local schools, nurseries and family attractions. If you live in the area, are reliable and trustworthy, have a car and would like to earn extra money, email editor@familieshampshirenorth.co.uk for more information.

Starting May 2022 March/April 2022

Make an Easter birds nest!

&

Cut out and Keep

Spring is springing and the birds are nesting.

So why not take the time to get crafty with the kids and help them make their own bird’s nest for Easter. Once you have gathered all of the pieces, you can put together your bird’s nest in no time.

Your child will love developing new skills as they explore making, sticking and creating.

Once the nest is complete, why not go on a walk and enjoy the sights and sounds of spring and see if you can spot birds’ nests in the trees?

You will need: • • •

Paper plate Brown paper squares Brown shredded paper

• • •

Feathers Wiggling eyes Bird cut outs (see below)

Instructions:

Step 1:

Cut the paper plate in half.

With one half, cut out a semicircle.

Step 2:

Cover both halves in brown paper.

Step 3:

Add the brown shredded paper to the half with the semi-circle cut out.

Step 4:

Step 5:

Then cut out the blue and yellow circles with the bird beaks in them and stick into the nest.

Step 6:

Add the wiggly eyes and feathers to the birds.

And, ta da, your nest is complete!

Stick the two pieces together, the half with the shredded paper on it on top of the other (so it makes a nest).

&

With thanks to Karen Allen, co-owner of Kidzplay Playbox for this craft activity. Kidzplay Playbox produces creative playboxes which are guaranteed to be fun and contain high quality, engaging activities. Visit www.kidzplay.co.uk for playboxes delivered to your door.

March/April 2022

Families Hampshire North

15

RE

EXPLO

G AMAZINICKS LEGO® BR RES U

SCULPT

Join us for the Animal Paradise LEGO® Bricks Tour at Festival Place Every day from

8th – 19th APRIL Discover and learn about endangered animals from around the world.

I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H TM

Festival Place couldn’t be easier to find! We're just minutes off junction 6 of the M3 and easily accessible by bus or train. For more info visit festivalplace.co.uk 16

Copyright © Brick Live Group Limited. All rights reserved. Brick Live Group Limited is an independent producer of BRICKLIVE and is not associated with the LEGO group of companies. LEGO® is a trademark of the LEGO Juris A/S.

Families Hampshire North

@festivalplace March/April 2022