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NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2016 ISSUE 36

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Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

…for families with children aged 0 - 12

The Wolf and Peter Competitions and vouchers Where to find Santa …and much more!

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Winter Wonderland 17/18 December 11am – 4pm Crafts – Carolers – Santa – Tea Rooms

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@familiesbirm

www.familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

HIGHLIGHTS Book now 0121 780 3333 www.thsh.co.uk WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD TUE 27 DEC 2016 – WED 11 JAN 2017 TOWN HALL

THE SCARECROW’S WEDDING

FRI 14 APR 2017 1PM SAT 15 APR 2017 11AM & 1PM TOWN HALL

Zap for exclusive content

THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW

SO YOU THINK YOU KNOW ABOUT DINOSAURS

SAT 27 MAY 2017 12:30PM & 2:30PM TOWN HALL

SAT 18 FEB 2017 10:30AM TOWN HALL Follow us Town Hall Symphony Hall

Funded by

2 Issue 36

@THSHBirmingham

thsh_birmingham

townhallsymphonyhall

Town Hall renovation also funded by

#PY PGåDF 0121 780 3333 www.thsh.co.uk

Contents Holidays are coming! Holidays are coming!

Yes, the most wonderful time of the year is nearly upon us.

Luckily, we are in the most wonderful region of the country to celebrate! You’ll see the richest of rich pickings in this issue.

Remember to tell everyone you read about the best local information right here - in Families Magazine!

Enjoy the merry season!

CHRISTMAS KINGDOM

Suzanne Brown, Editor

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

In this Issue...

4 News 8 Parenting 9 Family time at

12 13 14 15 16

Next Issue: Advertisers:

ET CR SE SHOP Y TO

10 13 16

Book now for our January - February issue.

Call: 07807 352087 or email: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk before Wednesday 7th December 2016 Design: Matt Walton Design

Print: Warners Midlands PLC, Manor Lane, Bourne. PE10 9PH Copyright Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield, November 2016. ©Families Birmingham is part of a registered trademark. Families® Magazines Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Magazine Birmingham are protected by copyright. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publisher and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, nor for any consequence.

Pre-book your visit to Father Christmas NOW and avoid the queues &ĂŶƚĂƐƟĐ Ăůů ĚĂLJ ĨĂŵŝůLJ entertainment programme dŚĞ ĞĂƌůŝĞƌ LJŽƵ Ŭ͕ ƚŚĞ ŵŽƌĞ LJŽƵΖůů ƐĂǀĞ͊

18529A 10/16

10

Christmas Keeping up energy levels for learning Clubs and Classes Unmissable musical experiences Ticket giveaways Make some edible gifts What’s On

4

www.hattonworld.com Issue 36

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News

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas fun at Birmingham Botanical Gardens T here’s lots of fun to be had at Birmingham Botanical Gardens this Christmas, with a whole host of events and activities for families to enjoy.

Magical Lantern Festival is a new family show, Friday 25 November - Monday 2 January, set to light up the festive season this winter with a trail of giant lanterns. Take a walk with pandas in their natural habitat, go deep sea diving with fish and stroll beside Cinderella’s carriage as you explore the illuminated displays amongst 15 acres of beautiful scenery There will be lots of other activities available throughout the evenings, with a range of international food and drink stalls to enjoy,

and, for the first time at Birmingham Botanical Gardens, an ice rink. Children can also visit Santa’s Grotto and will receive a special gift at the end.

On Saturday 3 December, visitors can enjoy Christmas carols and a craft fair packed with gift ideas for friends and family. Stallholders will be selling Christmas wreathes, table displays, jewellery, children’s books, cakes, knitwear and other small gifts. www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk

Make a difference this Christmas Giving or sending cards is the perfect way to show you are thinking of someone during the festive season.

Brain Tumour Research cards are priced at £4 per pack and at least 50% of the proceeds will go towards funding their charitable aims.

Could you sell Christmas cards for BTR at your school, club, workplace or local Christmas fair? BTR can send these to you on a sale or return basis so simply return anything you don’t sell along with any money raised.

Find out more on www.braintumourresearch.org/christmascards; 01908 867200; supportercare@braintumourresearch.org; www.ebay.co.uk/usr/braintumourresearch

Treasure Island Birmingham Repertory Theatre

4 Issue 36

The team at Birmingham Repertory Theatre believe passionately in the magic of Christmas, and the power of the season to make eyes sparkle and imaginations take flight. That’s why they pull out all the theatrical stops to create truly breathtaking festive shows that are as much a part of many families’ Christmas traditions as mince pies and fairy lights.

This Christmas is no exception, as The REP presents a thrilling, swashbuckling new version of the classic Treasure Island, that will take you and your family to faraway places in search of adventure.

Treasure Island Tickets £15+ |25 Nov. 2016 to 7 Jan. 2017| Age 7+ AND FOR THE YOUNGER ONES… Kids aged 3+ will love the songs, laughs and scary fun of Room On The Broom, playing in The REP’s Studio from 22 December to 8 January, plus the enchanting live stage show of The Snowman returns by popular demand, from 11 to 15 January. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk 0121 236 4455

News

www.familiesonline.co.uk

The Bear at mac birmingham One night when she’s fast asleep, an enormous snowy white bear climbs into Tilly’s bedroom.

It has a big black tongue and a yawn as big as your head. But Tilly’s not scared.

The Bear is a heart-warming and funny wintry tale. Pins and Needles company are delighted to be bringing to life another of Raymond Briggs’ author of The Snowman much-loved storybooks.

With dazzling puppetry, music, storytelling, and laughs, The Bear promises to be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

So bring a bear, and join Tilly and her great big white friend on their Christmas adventure.

Mon 5 Dec - Sat 31 Dec | £12.50 | Age 3+ | macbirmingham.co.uk

Singing, acting, dancing… it’s show time with Big Arena!

Come along and find out all that we at Big Arena Performing Arts can offer your child, age 3 – 18 years.

We have dedicated and experienced staff who can inspire your child with their enthusiasm and expertise in singing, acting and dancing. This is an exciting time for youngsters to join us as we are working towards a showstopping Variety Performance which will

be presented at Christmas-time.

To find out more come along on any Saturday morning, 10am – 1pm, for a free taster session in Sutton Coldfield. bigarenaperformingarts.co.uk, emmaparker-bigarena@hotmail.com, 07855 923371

25 NOVEMBER - 7 JANUARY

Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company presents

TREASURE ISLAND

By Bryony Lavery. Based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson

AGE 7+

22 DECEMBER – 8 JANUARY

Tall Stories in association with Kenny Wax Family Entertainment Ltd presents

ROOM ON THE BROOM

11 – 15 JANUARY

The Birmingham Repertory Theatre Production of

THE SNOWMAN™

By Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler

AGE 3+

Illustration: copyright © Axel Scheffler & Macmillan Children’s Books

AGE 3+

The stage show based upon the book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed

by Dianne Jackson and produced by John Coates.

Music and lyrics by Howard Blake

THRILLING STORIES & BOLD ADVENTURES

#ChristmasAtTheREP Box Office 0121 236 4455 BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK Registered in England 295910 Charity No.223660

REP Christmas Ad Sep 16 130x180.indd 1

Join in the conversation

birminghamrep

@birminghamrep

@therepbirmingham

27/09/2016 12:07

Issue 36

5

News

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Historical Festive Fun at Blakesley Hall C ome along and see Blakesley Hall dressed for a Tudor Christmas and meet Tudor characters preparing for the Yuletide festivities. You will find professional historical re-enactors the ‘1635 household’, at Blakesley, recreating a Traditional Tudor Christmas.

Show the children what domestic life would have been like for a wellto-do family, their friends, servants and visiting tradesmen at Christmas time.

Bringing the Tudor festivities to life will be the St Barnabas Handbell ringers, Choir Divertimento and costumed Tudor musicians. Homemade mulled wine and festive food available.

10 Dec 2016 | 10.30am - 3.30pm | Adult: £10; Concession: £8; Child: £6 Explore Blakesley Hall as you never have before on their Christmas Through The Ages tour. Try out their Pomander making activity

sessions, and do some wassailing!

Mince pies and festive punch available in the Tearoom.

1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th , 21st, 22nd December 2016 |Tours at 12.15pm, 1.15pm and 2.15pm Wednesday and Thursday | Adult: £7; Concession: £5; Child: £3 Step back in time and witness a traditional Victorian Magic Lantern Show at Blakesley.

4 Dec 2016 | 1pm and 3pm | Adult: £3.00, Child: £2.00 Pre-booking is advised as places are limited. birminghammuseums.org.uk/blakesley

A Magical Winter Wonderland Extravaganza Winter Wonderland is back a second year at Aston Tavern to celebrate Christmas. After our popular first year we have made a weekend of it. On Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th December Santa will ride his sleigh into The Aston Tavern to greet all the children and bring them gifts! With a Christmas fayre for your last minute shopping, you can buy freshly baked goods and preserves, jewellery and craft goods. Our mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, carol singers and Christmas tea rooms will get you in the Christmas spirit!

Only 15 minutes away from Birmingham City Centre, Aston Tavern will give you a great start to the Christmas holidays. Adults £3.50 and Children £2.50 per day (incudes visit to Santa and a gift). 0121 328 0095; www.astontavern.co.uk

Hoar Park Farm Shopping & Leisure Village Presents...

Enjoy the festive celebrations with...

The Croft Silver Band & Atherstone Choral XM ‘Singing carols around the tree...’

See Father Christmas

AND

A MARKEST

Burning Braziers to keep you warm

Hog Roast All Shops Open

Free S MINCE PIENUTS ST E H C T O Restaurant Open H LLED WINE MU

Thursday 8th December from 6pm

Hoar Park Farm Shopping & Leisure Village Nuneaton Road, Over Whitacre, Nr. Coleshill & Nuneaton, CV10 0QU Tel: 024 76 394433 or 024 76 397733 web: www.hoar-park.co.uk email: info@hoar-park.co.uk

6 Issue 36

Festive Concerts

www.familiesonline.co.uk RAYMOND GUBBAY presents

CHRISTMAS at SYMPHONY HALL Saturday 17 December 7.30pm

Wednesday 28 December 7.30pm

Seasonal and traditional music that perfectly captures the true spirit of Christmas presented by Kevin Whately Tchaikovsky Excerpts from The Nutcracker Suite Handel Hallelujah Chorus from Messiah Cullen Joy to the World Mozart Alleluia from Exsultate Jubilate and CAROLS FOR ALL Adrian Lucas conductor Julia Doyle soprano City of Birmingham Choir London Concert Orchestra Fanfare Trumpeters from the Band of the Queen’s Division

Get ready to party with a line-up of West End singers as they perform record-breaking ABBA hits from I Have a Dream to Dancing Queen… and many more A free glass of prosecco for everyone on arrival!

Terms and conditions apply Pete Harrison conductor London Concert Orchestra Capital Voices guest singers

CHRISTMAS CLASSICS

ABBA CLASSICS

Thursday 29 December 2.30pm

Monday 19 December 2.30pm

GLORIOUS HANDEL BY CANDLELIGHT

CHRISTMAS CAROL SINGALONG Sing your heart out as Jonathan Cohen leads you through a fun-filled jamboree of his most-loved carols and hits.

Let it Snow Merry Christmas Everyone Once in royal David’s city The Twelve Days of Christmas Santa Claus is Coming to Town With very special guest singer Louise Dearman London Concert Chorus London Concert Orchestra

Handel masterpieces performed in a candle-lit style setting.

Sarabande Trumpet Suite Hallelujah Chorus Arrival of the Queen of Sheba Rejoice Greatly Worthy is the Lamb and Amen from Messiah Crispian Steele-Perkins trumpet Daisy Brown soprano Steven Devine conductor CANZONETTA choir MOZART FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA in full 18th century costume

Thursday 22 December 7.30pm

Thursday 29 December 7.30pm

Join the much loved and acclaimed Katherine Jenkins as she returns to perform a magnificent concert of her favourite music and songs accompanied by the London Concert Orchestra.

Anthony Inglis conductor

Show-stopping music and songs from the greatest Broadway and West End musicals.

Wicked Hair Aspects of Love Anything Goes Oklahoma Billy Elliot Miss Saigon The Phantom of the Opera Les Miserables KERRY ELLIS JOANNA AMPIL OLIVER TOMPSETT GRAHAM BICKLEY Richard Balcombe conductor Manchester Concert Orchestra

KATHERINE JENKINS Celebration

THE SOUND OF MUSICALS

Friday 23 December 7.30pm

WHITE CHRISTMAS

Friday 30 December 7.30pm

All-time favourite Christmas songs and carols.

White Christmas Winter Wonderland All I Want for Christmas is You Frosty the Snowman Baby it’s Cold Outside and CAROLS FOR ALL Guest Singers Laura Tebbut & Tim Howar John Rigby conductor Capital Voices choir London Concert Orchestra

ZIMMER VS WILLIAMS

The two greatest film composers of the 20th Century in one fabulous programme.

E.T. Harry Potter Close Encounters Star Wars Superman Jurassic Park Pirates of the Carribean The Dark Knight Rises Inception Man of Steel The Da Vinci Code Batman Begins Gladiator Anthony Inglis conductor London Concert Orchestra

Saturday 24 December 2.30pm

CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

Sunday 1 January 2.30pm

Carols & seasonal classics staged in an evocative candle-lit style setting.

CORELLI Allegro & Pastorale from Christmas Concerto HANDEL Zadok the Priest, Christmas sequence from Messiah BACH Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, CULLEN Coventry Carol PEARSALL In dulci jubilo and CAROLS FOR ALL CANZONETTA choir MOZART FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA in full period costume Keri Fuge soprano Michael Bawtree conductor

JOHANN

STRAUSS GALA

All your favourite waltzes, polkas and songs from the Strauss era.

Die Fledermaus Overture Tritsch-Tratsch Polka Blue Danube Waltz Roses in Tyrol Radetzky March Roses from the South Waltz Tales from the Vienna Woods JOHANN STRAUSS DANCERS in glorious costumes of the period

Tuesday 27 December 7.30pm

Monday 2 January 2.30pm

Classics with a grand flag waving British finale!

Tchaikovsky Excerpts from The Nutcracker Suite Pachelbel Canon Bizet Danse Bohème Verdi La donna è mobile Puccini O soave fanciulla Hornpipe Land of Hope and Glory Nessun Dorma Rule, Britannia!

Madeleine Pierard soprano Nicky Spence tenor with special guest Jonathan Antoine Hilary Davan Wetton conductor London Concert Orchestra

Favourite wartime chart-toppers and hits from the forties directed by legendary band leader Ray McVay. Perfidia Opus One Hot Toddy Running Wild plus all your favourites including Moonlight Serenade Little Brown Jug Pennsylvania 6-5000 American Patrol In the Mood Guest vocalists Mark Porter and Catherine Sykes And special guests The Swing Time Jivers

LAST NIGHT OF THE CHRISTMAS PROMS

BOX OFFICE 0121 780 3333

GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA

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Now here’s a family Christmas show that you can really shout about!

A big, brilliant, fun-filled festive extravaganza with your favourite Christmas songs, snow and, of course, Santa.

Fri 30 Dec 1.30pm & 4.45pm BIRMINGHAM GENTING ARENA 0844 33 88 222 theticketfactory.com Issue 36

7

Parenting

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Tooth checkups at lowest level Dental problems being lined up for the future The British Dental Association (BDA) says that the number of children having annual dental checkups has fallen to an all time low. They also said that 40% of children did not have a checkup last year.

Checkups are a vital way to prevent tooth decay.

Poor dental health can lead to children needing fillings and extractions and tooth decay is one of the main reasons children need to visit hospital.

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Children aged from 3 months to 5 years.

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• Free Grant places available for age 2, 3 & 4 years

Tel: 0121 777 4902

130 Russell Rd, Hall Green, B’ham B28 8SQ

Other sites

621 Fox Hollies Road, Hall Green, Birmingham.

B28 9DW Tel: 0121 777 3778

Small World Nursery, 975 Stratford Road, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 8BG Tel: 0121 693 3071

The BDA suggests that children should see a dentist at least once a year. Between 2014 and 2015, there was a 10% increase in children needing hospital admission.

The BDA’s chair Henrik Overgaard-Nielsen said: “It’s clear we have a problem when one in three children are missing out on free dental treatment.

He added: “We need a concerted effort to get parents, health professionals and government on the same page.”

Button batteries a serious health risk to children Number of hospital visits dramatically rises Great Ormond Street Hospital has warned parents about the dangers of button batteries as the number of children admitted to hospital after swallowing them has dramatically risen.

The hospital says that on average, they treat one child every month for swallowing one of the tiny batteries, often used in electronic toys, hearing aids, watches and calculators. They can

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8 Issue 36

cause terrible health problems, including burning through tissue if they become stuck in the oesophagus, which can happen within as little as 15 minutes.

Children have had to endure operations to remove the batteries and there is also a danger of death if the acid erodes a blood vessel.

Parents should watch for danger signs such as vomiting, difficulties in swallowing, choking and chest infections. If you think your child may have swallowed a battery, you should take your child to the hospital immediately.

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www.familiesonline.co.uk

Family at Christmas

Fun-filled family panto O

ur biggest and best panto yet! RWP proudly presents ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’. Starring local singing sensation Lydia Borg in the title role, it is the traditional, timeless tale of Snow White who befriends the Seven Dwarfs in the magical forest, whilst running away from her rather naughty, and very vane, step-mother.

Voucher code FAMILIES entitles the purchaser to 10% off their total booking.

With exciting filmed effects see the Wicked Queen talk to her magic mirror and cast her magical spells in the castle kitchen. Come and meet lovable Aunt Dotty the Dame, played by the very popular and rather sparkly Jamie Jones; with lots of laugh-out-loud comedy the little ones will be delighted by the dwarfs – and will love booing and hissing at the Wicked Queen’s side-kick, Horace the Henchman. The show features a fabulous cast who will entertain you and make sure you leave with a big Christmassy smile on your face.

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall 16-30 December 2016, Santa Specials on Christmas Eve, Boxing Day Fun on 26th Dec. snowwhite2016.com; 0121 240 0218; 07401 595169

Ten tips for a stress free Christmas with toddlers

C

hristmas – a time of festive family fun and memory making, when it goes well. But, for parents of tots, Christmas can be a test of endurance and Christmas spirit. What are the best ways to cope with the joyful season’s trials and tribulations?

1. Reset your expectations. Visions of 1950s movies, rosy cheeked children in awe at receiving a satsuma in their stocking belong just there – in 1950s fantasy land.

2. Stock up on batteries well beforehand Buy some in every size because inevitably your child’s favourite present will require batteries and you won’t have any that fit.

3. Toddlers love boxes Don’t be down-heartened when they ignore their lovingly selected presents and prefer to play with the box.

4. Don’t expect your toddler to eat their Christmas lunch. Foods taste stronger and bitterer to your toddler.

5. Don’t take your relatives, unwanted parenting advice personally. Nod and smile sweetly, or change the subject if they start to air opinions.

6. Don’t expect your toddler to sleep well the night before Christmas.

The excitement may just be too much for them to keep to their normal sleep routine.

7. Be prepared that the idea of Father Christmas can be pretty scary to young children. Think about it, would you like a big man with a long beard in a funny red outfit breaking in to your house whilst you were in bed asleep?

8. Stagger present opening throughout the day - or even over a few days so that your toddler doesn’t become overwhelmed.

9. Don’t expect your toddler to share his new presents with his siblings or cousins . Children really don’t understand the idea of sharing until at least 4 or 5 years old.

10. Try to restrict the amount of sweets and chocolate that your toddler eats. All of the extra sugar and colourings are likely to make him hyper which will have a negative effect on both sleep and behaviour.

Ally MacDonald

Formerly Solihull Arts Complex

The The Sorcerer’s Sorcerer’s Apprentice Apprentice Family Christmas Show

Sat 17-Sat 24 Dec £10 each Choice of start times, this specially written Studio show for young children includes a visit by a certain man in red!

THE CORE THEATRE SOLIHULL PRESENT

Traditional

Family pantomime

Starring

Sponsored by

MALCOLM STENT

www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

Box Office: 0121 704 6962 10.30am-4pm Mon-Sat

Issue 36

9

Education

www.familiesonline.co.uk

How to keep energy levels up for learning during the winter I

By Liat Hughes Joshi

t’s the time of year when even lively children may lose their get up and go – literally - when hauling themselves out of bed for school. How can you maximise winter energy levels, so they make the most of school, learning and life in general?

Maximise sleep The NHS recommends 11 hours sleep for a five-year-old, reducing steadily to around 9.5 hours by the age of 11.

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge and achieve a higher 11+ score Recommended by tutors for the verbal reasoning element of the Durham CEM test

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk

Consider a ‘wake up gently’ alarm clock Swap the shock of a sudden, loud alarm for an alarm clock that gradually increases in volume. This makes waking up less of a thing to dread on dark mornings.

Make hearty but healthy breakfasts Swap sugar-loaded cereals for something warming and energy-boosting, such as fruity porridge or scrambled eggs.

Put some lively music on!

If it’s gloomy outside and everyone’s half asleep…liven things up with moodenhancing tunes. The right music is a brilliant pick-me-up!

Walk to (and from) school If time and distance allows, leaving the car behind and walking will help ensure children are fully awake for their first lessons of the day.

Watch out for end-of-term exhaustion Many children get a build-up of tiredness, which can lead to a condition lightheartedly called ‘end-of-term-itis’, involving tears and tantrums aplenty by December.

Go outdoors at the weekends whatever the weather Even an hour of fresh air and activity will do everyone good. Remember there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing – invest in decent waterproofs and wellies for everyone!

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explorelearning.co.uk 10 Issue 36

/explorelearning

@exploretutors

Education

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Tutoring: What you need to know Here’s a guide on how to find the best tutor for your child.

Plan ahead where possible If you know your child will be sitting the 11+, needs support for exams, or perhaps needs a confidence boost before moving to secondary school, begin your search well in advance.

Group tutoring reduces costs Group tutoring is beneficial to a parent’s pocket as it can work out cheaper per hour. However, it would be useful to speak to the tutor and check that the other children in the group need to work on the same things at roughly the same level.

Do your research Checking a new tutor’s credentials and qualifications is vitally important. Also, one-on-one tutors should be Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked.

Don’t be shy about checking how they work Ask questions when meeting a new tutor. A professional reputable tutor will be willing to explain their tutoring methods.

By Liat Hughes Joshi

Find out the local going rate Expect to pay anything between £20 and £65 an hour, depending on where you live. However, more expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better.

Arrange a trial lesson Many tutors will offer your child a trial lesson - this lets you get a feel for whether the tutor and your child will gel.

Good luck! familiesonline.co.uk/tutoring

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Aspiring engineers visit Land Rover

Aspiring engineers from Edgbaston High School’s Preparatory department enjoyed a day of inspiration at Land Rover.

YEAR 3 ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE Year 3 Academic Scholarship Exam Wednesday 1 February 2017 Application deadline Monday 23 January 2017

Places available in Years 4 and 5 Academic, Music, Sport, Art Scholarships 0121 454 5831 admissions@edgbastonhigh.co.uk www.edgbastonhigh.co.uk

Year 5 pupils learnt about engineering in action, saw robots assembling vehicles, and engaged in a series of team activities.

They practised their coding skills to program traffic lights and items of mechanical machinery.

The visit was designed to encourage enthusiasm in science, technology, engineering and maths, collectively referred to as STEM. Mrs Hartley, Head of the Preparatory School, commented: “It is so valuable for the girls to speak with women involved in the engineering industry. They will further extend their knowledge in these subjects by developing their coding skills in the classroom.�

Edgbaston High School offers independent education to girls aged 2 ½ - 18 years.

Issue 36

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Clubs and Classes My Baby Can Dance is an Award Winning pre-school activity for children aged 12 months - 3+ years.

Your little one’s 1st steps to learning.

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Check website for programme and fees or Tel: 07772 319303

or email: info@artattheheartltd.co.uk

CLUBS & CLASSES DANCE & DRAMA CENTRAL STAGE SCHOOL Tap Street Jazz Musical Theatre Solihull: Adult & Children’s Classes Free places for nursery children Tel: Claire 07939 529 227 info@centralstageschool.co.uk

DUBARRIE SCHOOL OF DANCE Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 ½ + Branches in Yardley and Solihull Telephone: 0121 744 1422 www.dubarrieschoolofdance.com

12 Issue 36

Ages 3 - 18 years Tel: 07855 923371 Open: Saturdays 10am - 1pm

Book your FREE trial today on

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL 07807 352087

DIRECTORY MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE Youth Theatre Group, Age 5+

Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA

Telephone: 0121 722 3761 www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com

MUSIC 1-to-1 drum tuition, City Centre location B I R M I N G H A M Rock School grades 1-8.

Ages 4 upwards.

Book online @ www.birminghamdrumschool.co.uk

SWIMMING TUITION Swimming lessons from 3.5 years to adults.

Lessons held in Solihull, Olton, Shirley & Acocks Green.

Learn the 4 strokes for all swimmers using fun themes!

Tel: 0121 405 0550 www.makeasplash.co.uk

Solihull Young Dancers

Ballet, Tap & Modern Dancing Classes from age 2 ½ + Tel: Kate on 07722 732678

www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk

Promote your little one’s natural reflexes and teach them to swim. Babies from 6 weeks & older can join the fun!

Tel: 0121 405 0440 www.waterhugs.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Learning a Musical Instrument

The making of a miniature musical maestro D iscover the benefits that can be gained from your child learning to play their favourite musical instrument...

An improvement in social skills

Playing music is a great way to make friends. Children who play instruments are encouraged to join ensembles and orchestras and you’ll often find them getting together outside of school hours too.

They have improved motor skills

A confidence boost

There’s no doubt that a child who feels they can manage a task – such as performing a simple tune – is filled with confidence.

By Sally J Hall

Birmingham Pianos Specially selected prestige pianos bought and sold by professional pianist and ABRSM registered teacher.

Persistence is taught

Learning an instrument is a slow task, and the traits that children must acquire are patience and the ability to practice.

They become creative & have a sense of achievement

Once a child has mastered making sounds from their instrument, they often begin to experiment. This leads to creativity, which in turn provides a sense of achievement.

Fine quality pre-loved pianos.

Find out more on familiesonline.co.uk/music

birminghampianos.co.uk

Award winning Holiday Camps and Term Time Lessons

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IC MUS GH

Unmissable musical experiences at The Strings Club

enquiries@birminghampianos.co.uk

01564 829461, 07790 660649

INS PI

The minute movements of the hands and fingers on an instrument are believed to fine-tune motor skills and help create neurological pathways in the brain.

Bringing together the very best in school holidays and music provision for 4-11 year olds

R

Sign up for a free tas ter event Inspire your child with The Strings Club’s award-winning Christmas Holiday Camp based in Harborne. Packed full of unmissable musical experiences and founded by professional violinist and teacher, Amy Cunningham, The Strings Club is a music activity playscheme for children aged 4-11, from beginners up to Grade 8 standard.

Each day of our Ofsted registered day-care scheme, daily rate £17.50+, is wonderfully different. Your child can choose between our ukulele, guitar or violin groups. The afternoon offers interactive workshops that your child will love including Big Carol Sing Song and Making Christmas Melodies. We accept Childcare Vouchers and offer a 20% sibling discount.

Join us for a Free Taster Event in January at our Harborne and Bournville centres. Lessons start from £15, and are tailored towards your child’s individual skills. Our DBS checked music teachers will give your child a memorable fun-filled, interactive experience with a variety of string instruments, enhancing their confidence and listening ability, their literacy and mathematical skills, along with their musical talent. thestringsclub.org , 0121 296 9204

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0121 296 9204 Ɣ www.thestringsclub.org Issue 36

13

Ticket Giveaways

www.familiesonline.co.uk

WIN a Christmas treat for your family

We have five sets of *family tickets (*2 adults, 2 children) to give away for some of the most fun and magical Christmas shows in our region.

Choose your favourites and enter our competitions. **1. Dance Xchange - The Wolf and Peter @ The Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome.

This engaging new production daringly describes this classic tale… through the eyes of the Wolf! This richly theatrical show will take young people on a thrilling adventure. Age 6+. The winner will receive a *family ticket for either the Friday or Saturday evening performance.

Fri 2 – Sat 3 Dec, dancexchange.org.uk, 0844 338 5000

**2. The Bear @ mac birmingham Join Tilly and her furry friend on their magical adventure.

The winning *family ticket is for Sat 10 Dec, 10am.

**5. VIP Launch Party @ RUSH UK, Birmingham

Rush UK Trampoline Park will be throwing a big VIP launch event on Thursday Nov 24th from 6-9pm, and would like one lucky reader’s family to come and join in the fun! There will be celebrity guests, acts, food, drink, music, and of course, lots of jumping!

The winning *family ticket is for Thursday 24th Nov, 6 – 9pm, rushuk.com, facebook.com/RushUKTrampolinePark Unit 6 Avery Dell, Kings Norton, B30 3DZ

Mon 5 – Sat 31 Dec, macbirmingham.co.uk, 0121 446 3232

TO ENTER the competition(s) of your choice simply answer the following question:

**3. Dick Whittington @ The Core Theatre, Solihull

*At which venue does your chosen event take place?*

Join Dick and his cat on their adventures as they run away to London looking for their fortune, but end up at the docks setting sail for... goodness knows where!

The winning *family ticket is for Sat 10 Dec, 7pm.

9-31 Dec, thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962

**4. Treasure Island @ Birmingham Repertory Theatre Treasure Island is a thrilling, swashbuckling voyage that will transport you to a far away, tropical island.

The winning *family ticket is for Mon 28 Nov, 7pm 25 Nov 25 - 7 Jan 17, birmingham-rep. co.uk, 0121 236 4455

14 Issue 36

Then, email your answer, your contact number and full postal address to editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk by Monday 21st November. Ensure you put the name of the event followed by the word ‘Competition’ in the subject line of your email. One competition entry per email. See t&c on page 19.

Edible Gifts

www.familiesonline.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Edible Christmas gifts you can make with your kids C

hristmas gifts don’t have to be expensive and you can have lots of fun making foodie gifts for your friends and family. Here are two quick, easy and delicious ideas for you to make with your children.

a jar Christmas cooekjariecasnin be used again

This is a lovely gift as th o.

Christmassy biscuits to and it’s full of yummy, You will need: rgarine • 250g soft butter or ma • 140g caster sugar • 1 egg • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 300g plain flour namon • Quarter tsp ground cin r anise • Tiny pinch of ground sta Method:

• Quarter tsp nutmeg • Large Kilner jar such • Ribbon and decorations lls be ni as mi To decorate; • Icing sugar • Water • Lemon juice

the the yolk from the egg and ter and sugar, then add ing until it mix p Cream together the but kee and , ces spi and add the flour vanilla extract. Gradually hands. s can do this with their Kid gh. dou of l bal a s as form use a variety of Christm on a floured surface and rts are all good. hea Next, roll the dough out and nds mo dia rs, sta the shapes – cookie cutters to make (gas 4, 190 C 375 F). water, Bake for 12-15 minutes lemon juice and a little sugar with a teaspoon of g icin on s the tion mix ora l, dec coo ke ce On to ma still thick. Use a piping bag until it is easy to pour but a cool place. a each and leave to dry in er jar and decorate with of the cookies into a Kiln n Finally, place a selectio and a label.

Christmas ribbon, bells

Snowballs

Everyone loves chocolat e and these little snowball shaped truffl es are great as a Christmas themed treat .

You will need: • 2 tbsp double cream • 200g good white chocolate, chopped Method:

• Half tsp vanilla extract • 2 tbsp desiccated cocon ut • Mini cake cases

Put the chocolate pieces in a pudding basin and set it over a pan of hot water, with the double cream. Bring to a simme r and then turn the hea down low. You’ll need to t supervise your child at this stage, as steam can burn. Stir with a woode n spoon until the chocol ate has melted into the cream. Add the vanilla, take off the heat and chi ll for one hour. It should then be firm but still loo se enough to work with.

With a teaspoon, each tak e a small amount of the chocolate paste and roll it in a ball between your palms. Then roll it in the coconut and you have little snowball sha ped truffles. Place each completed one inside a mini cake case.

Pop some inside a jam jar to give as a gift and add little playful touches such as tiny robins and Christmas trees that you use as cake decorations.

Issue 36

15

Santa Trail

Always check the organiser’s website in case of changes to schedule

Where to find Santa this He’s made his list, checked it twice, and will be on his way to visit our little angels in the West Midlands this Christmas! Luckily, they’ve been good all year, so Santa will be doing the rounds to make sure he sees every little boy and girl.

Here’s the best places to find Santa: Enchanted Christmas Kingdom, Hatton Adventure World

Father Christmas, his reindeer and all his elves are so excited because Christmas is coming! That means they can all go to the Grotto at Hatton, where this year there is a really amazing entertainment programme. Be sure to take part in all the festive activities –fun fair rides, reindeer quests, Christmas decoration making, and much more.

Every weekend from 26 Nov – 24 Dec 2016, PLUS 19 – 23 December 2016, hattonworld.com, from £9.95

Victorian Evening, Hoar Park

To meet Father Christmas at a traditional Victorian Christmas event come along to Hoar Park, Nuneaton. Here you will hear traditional carols performed by The Croft Silver Band & The Atherstone Choral Society, and you can sing

your favourite carols around the tree. Refreshments include hog roast, mince pies and mulled wine.

Moat Room. Outside have a family photo taken with our scarecrow Father Christmas and his reindeer.

All Shops and Restaurant Open.

Booking is advised.

28 Nov - 27 Dec, 9am – 4pm, nationaltrust.org.uk/baddesleyclinton

Thur 8 Dec, from 6pm, hoar-park.co.uk

Christmas at Winterbourne, Winterbourne House and Garden

Father Christmas and his reindeer will be welcoming children to the grotto at Winterbourne House before they set off on their busy schedule. Children who have been good will receive a present!

Standard admission to the house and garden applies but a charge is applicable for the grotto.

Sat 10 Dec, 11am-5pm, winterbourne.org.uk, 0121 414 3003, from £4.45

Christmas at Baddesley, Baddesley Clinton

Come and warm up by a crackling fire in the Great Hall and see our yuletide decorations. Children can make their own pomander in the

Drayton’s Magical Christmas

Book early to make sure you enjoy your magical Christmas with us at Drayton Manor. We will have live shows, light shows, carols, presents and, of course, Father Christmas. Every day will end with a spectacular fireworks display.

19 Nov – 31 Dec, 9.45am – 5pm or 6pm, draytonmanor.co.uk/magicalchristmas, from £6 - £30

Christmas Celebration Weekends, Cadbury World

Cadbury World’s Christmas Weekends return for another year. Includes special new entertainment. See their captivating Cinderella pantomime take to the stage. Also, Santa will be starring in his own stage show – bringing a gift for every good boy and girl.

19, 20, 26, 27 November, and 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22 December, cadburyworld.co.uk, Adults: £16.75; Children: £12.30

Santa’s Winter Wonderland, SnowDome Tamworth

Guess what? Santa is coming to Tamworth SnowDome this Christmas with his magical Winter Wonderland! In real snow! He’ll bring his reindeer and all of his friends for snowy festive fun. The ultimate Christmas adventure for all the family.

18 Nov – 31 Dec, snowdome.co.uk, from £13.95

16 Issue 36

Santa visits Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Santa will be spreading festive cheer at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery throughout December.

Families visiting Santa in his grotto will get to have a photo with the man himself and receive a gift.

Little ones can get creative with Christmas crafts activities, and take part in a nativity arts trail around the gallery. Enjoy the season in the beautiful surroundings of the museum.

3, 4, 10, 11, 17 & 18 December, 10am – 5pm, £5 per child. birminghammuseums.org.uk

Victorian Christmas Weekend, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Ironbridge

Join the residents at Blists Hill Victorian Town as they get into Christmas – 1800s style. Chat to the costumed townsfolk in their shops, cottages and places of work, all decorated for the festive season, listen to the brass bands, sing-a-long with carol singers, watch a Shropshire ‘Mummer’s Play’, a precursor to the pantomime, and do some Christmas shopping.

Make time to meet Father Christmas in his grotto and pet his reindeer.

Museum opens 10am - 4pm daily, ironbridge.org.uk, 01952 433 424, 3, 4,10 & 11 December from £10.75

Search for Santa, Sherborne Wharf

Bring the grownups along to help the little ones search for Santa along the canals of Birmingham this Christmas. Sherborne’s luxury narrow boats are now equipped

Santa Trail

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas

with the latest “Santadetecting” technology! All children get a Christmas gift. No unaccompanied adults are allowed! Boat trips last approximately one hour. Booking essential.

dust on the Reindeer shoes; and write a letter to Santa in the Victorian school and send it up the chimney.

Trip times: 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm | 1 - 24 Dec | £9.50 per person | sherbornewharf.co.uk | 0121 454 5367 | email@sherbornewharf.co.uk

20, 26, 27 November, and 3, 4, 10, 11, 17 – 24 December, 0121 557 9643, bclm.co.uk, Adult - £16; Children - £10

Santa Hunts, Black Country Living Museum

BCLM’s Santa Hunts return for another year. Children, and their accompanying grownups, can search for Santa, meeting a series of characters as they go! Follow clues to find Santa’s workshop and receive a Christmas gift.

Search for the naughty hiding gingerbread men, sprinkle magic

Every child will receive a gift.

Booking essential.

Santa Safari, West Midlands Safari Park

Treat your children to an enchanting and festive day out they’ll never forget. Take a 4 mile self-drive Safari and visit Santa in an inimitable experience!

Weekends from 12 Nov and every day from 26 Nov to 24 Dec, 01299 402114, wmsp.co.uk/events, from £7.50 - £21

Join us at the Gardens for some festive fun throughout the Christmas season.

Fireworks - 5th November Magical Lantern Festival 23rd November - 2nd January Christmas Fair - 3rd December

For more information please contact reception or visit us at;

birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/whatson Find us on:

Your support keeps the Gardens growing

Issue 36

17

What’s On Out & About Creative Sunday Workshops

Ackers Adventure

Address: Golden Hillock Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham, B11 2PY, ackers-adventure.co.uk, 0121 772 5111

1 Star Canoe/Kayak Course Date: 19th Nov Time: 10am – 4pm

Dates in Nov: 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th Dates in Dec: 4th, 11th, 18th Times: Ages 4 – 8 years: 11am – 12.30pm Ages 8 – 12 years:1.30 – 3pm Admission: £5 per session At each session children will be inspired to create wonderful pieces of art using a range of mediums and techniques.

Take your budding Rembrandts along to the Barber Institute to be filled with inspiration by using colour, shape, texture and nature in their very own masterpieces.

www.familiesonline.co.uk was different compared with today.

Try your hand at traditional street games

Enjoy the delights of Victorian playtime including hopscotch and skipping. Can you rise up to the challenge of the cup and ball and the whip and top? How long you can keep the hoop rolling in the hoop and stick game? Attempt to knock over all nine pins in a game of skittles.

Come & see the fin-tastic sharks at Sealife Centre, Birmingham.

This week celebrates of one of nature’s most misunderstood, yet wonderful, creatures. Learn the different types of sharks.

Meet Santa!

Dates: 26 Nov – 23 Dec Time: 10am – 6pm Admission: from £12.75 Meet Santa in our Antarctic Grotto (included with your entry ticket). Look at our family of Gentoo Penguins in the cold Ice Adventure area.

Mince Pie Canoe Tour Date: 10th Dec Time: 10am – 2pm

Junior Ski Camp Date: 19th, 21stDec Time: 10am – 4pm

2 for 1 Ski Taster Session

Date: 27th Dec, 11.45am – 12.45pm Date: 29th Dec, 1.45pm – 2.45pm Date: 31st Dec, 10am – 11am 2 FOR 1 Ski tasters for adults and juniors.

Buy one adult or junior place and bring a junior for free.

Aston Hall

Trinity Road, Aston, Birmingham, B6 6JD, birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston Date: 2 Dec Time: 7.30pm - 9.30pm Admission: Adult: £11.50, Concession/ Child: £10.00 Age: 8+ Pre-booking essential.

Barclaycard Arena

King Edwards Rd, Birmingham, B1 2AA barclaycardarena.co.uk, 0844 33 88 222

Birmingham International Tattoo

Experience the Pomp and Pageantry Dates & Times: 26 Nov, 6pm; 27 Nov, 2pm Tickets: £12.50 - £30.00 To book: 0844 338 8000, birminghamtattoo.co.uk Britain’s biggest indoor military tattoo, with over 1,000 performers, will return to Birmingham bringing marching bands from Belgium, Netherlands, Ireland and the UK to the Barclaycard Arena. You will be treated to many spectacular displays which culminates in a grand finale.

Christmas Revels by the Fireside

Christmases Past

Dates: 22 – 24, 26 - 30 Dec Times: 3pm; 4pm Tickets: £25.45+ This show promises to have pyrotechnics, cutting-edge special effects, martial arts, aerial stunts, motorcycles and more.

Book fast, tickets are selling out!

Settle around the magnificent Jacobean fireplace for some festive storytelling in the Great Hall, and join in the seasonal songs performed by the splendid Birmingham City Council Choir.

Dress warmly as the Hall can be cold at this time of year. Latecomers may not be admitted.

Marvel Universe LIVE!

Date: 17 Dec Dates: 4.30pm - 9.30pm Times: Various, see website Admission: Adult: £10.00, Concession: £8.00, Child (3-15 years): £6.00 Pre-booking essential.

Why not join us as we reminisce over Christmases Past. Experience the sights and sounds of the festive season from the 17th century right through to the 1940s.

Please note: warm clothing and sensible footwear is advisable.

Strictly Come Dancing Live

Date: 20 - 22 Jan 2017 Time: 1.30pm, 2.30pm, 6.30pm, 7.30pm Tickets: £40.18+ This show simply is a must-see event for Strictly fans of all ages.

Black Country Living Museum

University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TS, barber.org.uk, 0121 414 2261 education@barber.org.uk

18 Issue 36

CBSO Centre, Berkley Street, Birmingham, B1 2LF, bcmg.org.uk/whats-on 0121 616 2616 info@bcmg.org.uk

Music Maze (8-11 years), and ZigZag Ensemble (12 – 18 years) Date: Sunday 20th November; Time: 10am – 2.30pm Admission: Free Children of all musical abilities, get the priceless experience of composing original pieces of music, working alongside the world class musicians of Birmingham Contemporary Music Group.

Pre-booking essential via website.

Spanish Riding School of Vienna Dates: 18 – 20 Nov Times: Fri & Sat 7.30pm; Sun 3pm Tickets: £31.64 - £76.64 The Spanish Riding School of Vienna celebrates its 450th anniversary at Birmingham’s Barclaycard Arena.

Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Birmingham Contemporary Music Group

Tipton Road,Dudley, DY1 4SQ bclm.co.uk, 0121 557 9643 Date: daily events until 31 Dec Time: 10am-5pm Admission: Adults £15.95; Children from £7.45; free for under 5’s

Have a school lesson

Experience the strict discipline of the Victorian classroom at a re-enactment.

Discover the ways in which education

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market

Location: Victoria Square and New Street, Birmingham, birmingham.gov.uk/frankfurtmarket Dates: 17 Nov - 29 Dec (except Christmas Day) Time: 10am - 9pm Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market returns to our city centre once again. You will find a range of traditional goods and gifts. There’s also a wide choice of tempting food and drink.

Pretzels, bratwursts, and schnitzels available.

And why not visit the nearby outdoor ice rink and big wheel in Centenary Square? Open 19 Nov - 8 Jan, 10am – 10pm. bigwheelcompany.com

Sealife Centre, Birmingham

The Waters Edge, Brindley Place, Birmingham B1 2HL, visitsealife.com/birmingham, 0871 423 2110

Shark Week

Dates: 5 – 13 Nov Time: 10am – 6pm Admission: from £12.75

Severn Valley Railway

Kidderminster Station, 1 Comberton Place, Kidderminster DY10 1QR svr.co.uk, 01562 757900

Christmas Carol Trains

Dates: 3, 10 & 17 Dec Time: Trains depart from Kidderminster at 7.30pm, and return 10.45pm.

Fares: Adult £16; Child £11 Booking essential Enjoy singing traditional carols with New Dimensional Choir on our scenic diesel rail-car on a trip from Kidderminster. A warming glass of punch and a mince pie will be served to passengers at The Engine House Visitor Centre at Highley before you return to Kidderminster.

Festive Season Service

Dates: 26 Dec – 2 Jan Times: See website for timetable Fares: Adult £18+; Child £12+ Trains operate daily from 26 Dec to 2 Jan. The Engine House, our Visitor Centre at Highley, will also be open throughout this period. Why not try our restaurant, The Flag & Whistle?

Tamworth Castle

Holloway, Ladybank, Tamworth B79 7NA, tamworthcastle.co.uk 01827 709626

Children’s Victorian Christmas Santa Trails

Dates: 10 & 11 Dec Time slots starting from 10 am – 4.15pm Admission: Adult £4.50; Child 3 years and over £6.50; Child 0- 2 years £3.50 Join in the festive fun at Tamworth Castle’s magical Victorian Christmas.

Meet the Victorian household getting ready for Santa’s annual visit. You will hunt for Santa around the building.

Help the cook make Christmas pudding, join the butler preparing for Santa’s midnight feast and the housemaid decorating the Castle, before entering Santa’s grotto to receive a surprise gift.

Please check the organiser’s website in case of changes to schedule. Thank you

What’s On Christmas Theatre

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Birmingham Hippodrome

Hurst Street, Southside, B5 4TB, birminghamhippodrome.com, 0844 338 5000 THE NUTCRACKER Dates: 25th Nov – 13th Dec Times: 1pm; 2pm; 2.30pm; 7.30pm Tickets: £19+ The Hippodrome welcomes back The Nutcracker which has been part of the Birmingham’s Christmas tradition for 25 years.

DICK WHITTINGTON Dates: 19th Dec - 29 Jan Times: various - see website Tickets: £15.50+ Age: 3+: Age Guidance: No under 3s admitted Birmingham Hippodrome presents the classic rags-to-riches tale Dick Whittington.

Birmingham Repertory Theatre

Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EP, birmingham-rep.co.uk, Box Office: 0121 236 4455 TREASURE ISLAND Dates: 25th Nov – 7th Jan Times: 10.15am; 11am; 2pm; 2.30pm; 7pm Tickets: £10 - £37.50 Age Guidance: 7+ A thrilling, swashbuckling voyage full of challenges and adventure.

ROOM ON THE BROOM Dates: 22nd Dec – 8th Jan Times: 10.30am; 11am; 12.30pm; 1.30pm; 2.30pm; 3pm Tickets: £13 Age Guidance: 3+ Here’s another chance to see this popular story turned into a theatrical production following a sell-out run at The REP in 2014.

THE SNOWMAN Dates: 11th - 15th January Times: 10.30am; 2pm; 3pm; 7pm Tickets: £15 - £37.50 Age Guidance: 3+ Winter’s coming… what other excuse do you need to book tickets to this beautiful, enchanting and much-loved story?

The Core Theatre

Solihull Theatre Square, Touchwood, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RG, thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962 DICK WHITTINGTON Dates: 9th – 31st December Times: 10.30am; 11am; 2.30pm; 3pm; 7pm Tickets: £16 Age Guidance: Suitable for whole family.

This Christmas you are invited to join Dick and his cat on their adventures as they run away to London looking for their fortune.

Genting Arena

Exhibition Way, Birmingham B40 1PA gentingarena.co.uk 0844 33 88 222 BEST EVER CHRISTMAS SHOW Date: 30th December Time: 1.30pm & 4.45pm

Tickets: Family tickets from £74.40 Don’t miss the sing-along, dancealong, clap-along, snow-filled Best Ever Christmas Show coming to Birmingham this Christmas.

mac birmingham

Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham B12 9QH, macbirmingham.co.uk, 0121 446 3232 CHAPTERHOUSE THEATRE: A CHRISTMAS CAROL Dates: 9th – 10th December Time: 8pm Tickets: £12 (£10) Age Guidance: Suitable for all the family.

Ebenezer Scrooge visits the past, present and future, accompanied by three ghosts determined to make him realise the true meaning of Christmas.

The Old Rep Theatre

Station Street, Birmingham, B5 4DY oldreptheatre.co.uk 0121 359 9444 THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS Dates: 21st Nov – 31st Dec Times Vary. See website.

Tickets: £16.50; £13.50 A Christmas production of Kenneth Grahame’s classic children’s story.

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Upper Clifton Road, Sutton Coldfield, B73 6AB townhallsuttoncoldfield.co.uk 0121 240 0218; 07401 595169 SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS Dates: 16th – 30th December Time: 11am; 2pm; 3pm; 7pm Tickets: £11 - £23 The fabulous cast will entertain you and make sure you leave with a huge Christmassy smile on your face!

For thousands more ideas of things to do with the kids in the West Midlands go to our brand new Families website and join your local postcode area.

Town Hall, Birmingham

Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ thsh.co.uk 0121 780 3333 WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD Dates: 27th December – 11th January Times: 10.30; 11am; 1pm; 3pm Tickets: £12 - £17 Age Guidance: 3+ A lovely winter show, Includes live music, puppetry and lots of laughs! *Book early.

Competitions. Terms and conditions.

1. Only one entrant per competition from the same email account will be accepted.

2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering.

3. Entries must be received by the closing date stated on each individual competition. Proof of entering cannot be taken as proof of receipt.

4. All decisions of Families Birmingham are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

5. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize.

6. Winners’ contact details will be supplied to the Promoter of each competition.

7. Families Birmingham is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition.

8. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions.

9. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and contacted via the email account provided by the entrant. If Families Birmingham does not obtain a response from the winner within 24 hours, we reserve the right to select another winner at random.

10. This competition is restricted to residents of the West Midlands only.

Issue 36

19

Families

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TRAMPOLINE PARK INCLUDING EXCITING ATTR ACTIONS: rushuktrampolinepark

20 Issue 36

RushUKTrampolinePark

OPENING NOVEMBER

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Ninja Warrior Assault Course

Free Wifi

Total Wipeout

After Dark Disco Nights

Wavy Lane

Dodgeball Leagues

Long Tumble Lanes

Battle Beams

High Performance Arena

Slack Lines

Rush Boutique

Trapeze

Cafe

Rock Climbing Wall