HelloSpring!
AtlastWinterisnearlydone!Marchcan stillbecoldanddrearybutatleastfiner weatherisjustaroundthecorner...it’s timetodustoffthecobwebsandgetthe familyoutside!Wehavetheperfect incentiveinthisissuewitheightfamily projectsthatwillreconnectyourfamily withnature,eitherinyourgardenornearby.
MeanwhileEasteriscoming!Makesureyougetyourcalendar andcheckoutourWhat’sOnGuidefortheEasterholidays.As always,therearesomefabulouseventsandactivitiesforfamilies happeninglocallythroughouttheWestMidlandsinMarch&April. IfyouaregoingtobeelsewhereintheUKduringtheholidays, whynotplanatriptooneofthe‘must-see’acclaimed family-friendlymuseums.Findoutwhicheightwerecommend. WefocusonEarlyYearsthisissuewithgreatarticlesonmusthavenewbabyproducts,speechandlanguagedevelopmentand whichtoddlerclassisrightforyourchild.Plus,doyouknowhow toimproveyourchild’smetacognition?Findoutfroma NeurocognativeTherapist.
Don’tmissourfamily-friendlyairfryerrecipesforparentswith hecticfamilyschedules.Cookonce,eattwiceisagamechanger! Finally,inthisissue,wehaveKentandStoweGardeningToolSets togiveaway!Applyinside.Bydoingso,you’llalsoensureyou receiveadigitalversionofthemagazinetosharewithfriendsand familyPLUSmoregiveawaysandusefulinformationinourFREE newsletter.
Enjoythemagazine! Claire
Outdoorfunandle
Springistheperfectseasontoembracethewondersofnaturewithyourchildren.Thebuddingtrees andconnectwithwildlife.Whetheryouhaveasprawlinggarden,asmallbalconyorjustawindowbo outdoorfunwithyourfamilythisspring.Eachprojectoffers
Buildabughotel
Bughotelsarefantasticforbiodiversityandprovidingshelterfor insects,includingbeetles,ladybirdsandsolitarybees.They’realso abrillianthands-onprojectforchildren.Startbygatheringnatural materialsliketwigs,pinecones,bark,bamboocanesanddryleaves. Useanoldwoodenboxorstackpalletstocreatethestructure, fillingthecompartmentswiththesematerials.Youcanalsorecycle everydayitemslikebrickswithholes,cardboardtubesorbroken terracottapots.
Tomakeyourbughotelevenmoreappealingtosolitarybees,create a‘beehotel’sectionbybundlingtogetherhollowbamboocanesor drillingholesofvaryingsizesintowoodenblocks.Thisprovidesideal nestingspotsfortheseimportantpollinators.Positionthissectionin asunny,shelteredspot,assolitarybeespreferwarmthanddryness.
Encouragekidstomonitortheircreationregularly. Buglife (www.buglife.org)hasafantasticbugdirectorytohelpyouidentify yourtinynewvisitorsandfindoutmoreaboutthem.Remind childrentovisitthehotelatdifferenttimesofthedayandobserve whichinsectspreferwhichareasofthehotel.
DomHiggins,HeadofHealthandEducationat TheWildlifeTrusts (www.wildlifetrusts.org)saysencouragingchildren’snaturalcuriosity caninstilalifelongloveofnaturethatbringsphysicalbenefits.He alsobelievesthatgettinghands-oncanhelppreventordispelfears aboutcreepie-crawlies. ‘Childrenhaveafascinationwithinsectsand creepie-crawlies.Isn’titoftentheadultswhoaresqueamish,rather thanthechildren?’
Needmoreideasforbughotels? Famly (www.famly.co)hasan excellentguidetocreatingdifferentkindsofbughotelsfromareally simpleten-minuteprojecttothemega-complex.
Hedgehogsarenocturnalwonderswithacrucialrolein maintaininggardenhealthbyeatingpestslikeslugsandsnails. Towelcomeourpricklyfriends,leaveasmallgapinyourgarden fenceforthemtopassthrough.Avoidusingslugpelletsasthey canharmhedgehogs.
Youcanalsomakeorpurchaseahedgehoghouse.Positionitin aquiet,shadedareaandfillitwithdryleavesorhay.Providing freshwaterandfoodsuchasmeat-basedcatordogfood(not milkorbread)canencourageregularvisits.Involveyourchildren insettingupandcheckingthehedgehoghouseandteach themtoobservefromadistancetoavoiddisturbingtheseshy creatures.
Transformyourgardenorlocalparkintoatreasuretroveof discoverybyorganisingaminibeasthunt.Equipchildrenwith magnifyingglasses,notebooksandachecklistofinsectstofind, suchasants,worms,spidersandcentipedes.Lookunderlogs, leavesandstonesforhiddencreatures,takingcaretoreturn everythingtoitsoriginalposition.
Thisactivityteacheskidsaboutthediversityoflifeandthe importanceofeventhesmallestcreaturesintheecosystem. Encouragethemtosketchtheirdiscoveriesorwritedownfunfacts abouteachspecies.
likethyme,mintandoreganoarealsoexcellentchoicesfor windowboxesorsmallspaces.
Childrencanhelpplantandcarefortheseflowers,learningabout thelifecyclesofpollinatorsintheprocess.Abutterfly-friendly gardencanalsoincludeflatstoneswherebutterfliescanbaskinthe sunandshallowwaterdishesfordrinking.
earningthisspring
andsingingbirdsarenotjustsignsoflifeandnewbeginningsbutalsoopportunitiestoexplore,learn ox,thereareplentyofwaystocreateathrivingminiecosystem.EllieMaltshareseightideastoinspire amixofhands-oncreativity,learningandthejoyofdiscovery.
Springisnestingseason,makingittheperfecttimetoinstallabird box.Insteadofusingtraditionalwoodendesigns,tryupcycling somethingfromaroundyourhometocreateauniquenesting spot.Anoldteapot,forexample,canbesecurelymountedwiththe spoutangleddownwardtokeepitdry.Anunusedwoodendrawer orevenasturdycardboardboxcoatedinweatherproofpaintcan alsoworkwell.Getcreative,letyourchildrendecoratethebirdbox withnon-toxicpaintstomakeittrulyone-of-a-kind.
Positiontheboxatleasttwometresabovethegroundina shelteredspot,awayfromdirectsunlightandpredators.Monitorit discreetly:watchingbirdsnestandraisetheirchicksisamagical experienceforthewholefamily.
Todeepenyourconnectionwiththewildlife,considersettingup asmallcameranearthebirdboxtoobservetheactivityinside withoutdisturbingthebirds.Alternatively,createasimplebirdhide usingbranches,camouflagenettingoranoldblankettowatch birdsfromadistance.Thiscanturnyourgardenintoaminiwildlife observationstation,sparkingcuriosityandteachingpatience.
Compostingisanawesomewaytoteachchildrenaboutthe naturalcycleofdecomposition.Asimplecompostheaporbincan provideahabitatforworms,woodliceandotherdecomposers whileproducingnutrient-richsoilforyourgarden.
Getchildreninvolvedbylettingthemaddfruitandvegetable scraps,eggshellsandgardenclippingstothecompost.Addtorn upplaincardboardtoprovidecarbonandrecyclehousehold packaging.Explainhowthematerialsbreakdownovertimeand whycompostingisessentialforreducingwaste.
Checkingthecompostheapregularlycanrevealfascinating insectactivityandfosteradeeperunderstandingofnature.
Evenifyoudon’thaveagarden,youcanstillattractwildlifetoyour homewithawell-plantedwindowboxorbalcony.
Chooseamixoffloweringplantsforpollinatorsandleafygreens forshelteringinsects.Childrencandecoratepotsandhelpwith planting,fosteringtheircreativityandnurturingskills.
Addasmalldishofwaterwithstonesforinsectstodrinkfromand hangtinyfeedersorseedballstoattractbirds.
Observingwildlifeatcloserangefromyourwindowcanbejustas rewardingasagardensafari. Explorethemagicof
Birdwatchingisarelaxingandeducationalactivitythatcanbe enjoyedyear-roundbutspringisparticularlyvibrantasmanybirds preparefornesting.
Setupbirdfeederswithamixofseeds,peanutsandsuetballsto attractavarietyofspecies.Youcanalsomakesimplefeedersusing pinecones,peanutbutterandbirdseedorstringappleslicesand raisinsontogardentwine.Consideraddingabirdbathfordrinking andbathing.
Encourageyourchildrentokeepabirdjournal,notingthespecies theyspotandtheirbehaviour. TheRoyalSocietyfortheProtection ofBirds (www.rspb.org.uk)canhelpwithidentificationandprovide tipsforbird-friendlygardening. Warblr (www.warblr.co.uk)isan iPhoneandAndroidappthatautomaticallyrecognisesBritishbirds bytheirsong.
Buildabirdboxandbirdhide
Startacompostheap
Improvingyour child’smetacognition
ByUshaPatel
Inallthestagesoflearning,wewanttoencouragecuriosity, findouthowbestachildlikestolearnandexploitthistoits fullpotential.
However,whatcanmakethetaskoflearningverydifficult, especiallyforthosewithneurodivergentconditionssuchas dyslexia,DCD,ADHDorASDisthat,duetoweakexecutive functionskills,childrenmayappearboredeasilyandbeunable toengageforlongperiods.
Inmyexperience,thisstemsfrommanyfactors;someofwhich arephysical(poorco-ordination),othersbrain-based(cognitive).
Theresultisthatsuchchildrenlookforactivitieswhichdeliver instantgratificationandtheyareeithernotentertainedforlong orhyper-focusedandcan’tchangepaceoractivity.Thispattern, inturn,createsaviciouscycleofeventsleadingtothepoint whereeverythingisboringunlessitistheirchoiceofactivity, usuallyproceduralinnature.
Thislimitstheirpotentialtostretchtheirwayofthinking andhowtheyprocesstheirownthoughts–metacognition. Metacognitionis‘thinkingabouthowyouthink’ andthisselfanalysisisthebasisofself-improvement.
Sohowdoyouhelpachildimprovetheirwayofthinkingand engageindevelopingcuriosity?
Thefirstthingistostoptalkingandstartaskingmorequestions orallowsilencetogivethemspacetoworkitoutforthemselves. Parentswhoprovidealltheanswersallthetimearenotletting theirchildrenthinkforthemselves.Wewanttoplacethe responsibilitysquarelyintheirhands.
Whenevertheycan’tfindthebutterinthefridge,behindthe bowlofyesterday’seveningmeal,insteadofmovingthingsin therefrigerator,thecallcomesout:‘Ican’tfindthebutter!’This needstochange,soYOUneedtochange.Don’tdothingsfor themorprovideanswersuntiltheyhavetriedtoworkitoutfor themselves.
Thebeautyofphysical‘survival’basedactivities
Whensurvivalisafactor,thebrainswitcheson.Anyactivity whichaffectsbalanceissomethingwehavetothinkabout
IndependentSchools
carefully-wecannotdoitroutinely.Thisiswhy climbingwalls aremyfirstpointofcallforbuildingmetacognition.
Childrenusingclimbingwalls(orclimbingtrees)needtodo manythingsbutmostofalltheyneedtoavoidfallingdown! Eachhandposition,eachfootpositionisthoughtthroughand hasconsequences.Thisiscriticalthinkingatitsbest.
Afterwards,thereisalotofself-analysis:wasIstrongenough? HowwouldIdothisnexttime?Thisisthemetacognitionwe wanttonurture.
Afterafewgoesofthesameclimbingwall,theactivitydoes becomeproceduralbutthat’swhenit’stimetoincreasethe challengetothenextlevelforalongerduration.
Howdoestheshipgetintothebottle?
Puzzleswhichmakeyouthinkbutdon’tburdentheworking memoryarealsogoodforbuildingmetacognition.Iliketouse simpleSudokupuzzles.Youdon’tneedequipment,aunique spaceorloadsoftime.
Unlikeaphysicalpuzzle,withSudoku,youcanseethesteps takentosolvethepuzzleandanalysethem.Youcanthenuse thisanalysisnexttime.Thishelpsbuildonthemetacognitionof howtosolvethepuzzleandhowyouthink.
TherearemanydifferentvariationsofSudokuandthelevelof complexitycanrangefrombeginnertorocketscientistlevel, makingthemhighlyadaptable.
UshaPatelisaNeurocognitiveTherapistatRavivPractice London(www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk)
Birmingham,Solihull&SuttonColdfield
PrepandJuniorSchools
EdgbastonHighSchool forGirlsPre-Prep&Prep Edgbaston,Birmingham
T:01214545831
www.edgbastonhigh.co.uk
OpenMorning:Sat5Apr 09:30–12:00
HallfieldSchoolPre-Prep &Prep
Edgbaston,Birmingham T:01214541496
www.hallfieldschool.co.uk
OpenMorning:Sat8Mar 09:30–12:00
HighclareSchoolPre-Prep &Prep
Erdington,Birmingham T:01213737400 www.highclareschool.co.uk
NorfolkHouseSchool
Birmingham T:01214547021 www.norfolkhouseschool.co.uk
OpenMorning:Sat15Mar 10:00–12:45
PriorySchool
Edgbaston,Birmingham T:01214404103 www.prioryschool.net
St.George’sSchoolPrep Edgbaston,Birmingham T:01216250398 www.sgse.co.uk
OpenMorning:Sat8Mar 10:00–12:00
TheBlueCoatSchool Edgbaston,Birmingham T:01214106800 www.thebluecoatschool.com
WestHouseSchool
Edgbaston,Birmingham T:01214404097
www.westhouseprep.com
EversfieldPrepSchool
Solihull T:01217050354 www.eversfield.co.uk
RuckleighSchool
Solihull T:01217952773 www.ruckleigh.co.uk
SolihullSchool
Solihull T:01217050958 www.solsch.org.uk
TheShrubberySchool
SuttonColdfield T:01213511582
www.shrubberyschool.com
NurseryPlaces Available
T: 01217529750
E:crescent@childbase.com
CrescentDayNurseryandPreschool, 21-22CalthorpeRoad,B151RP
T:01214541170
E:highfield.nursery @childbase.com
HighfieldDayNurseryandPreschool, 3-4HighfieldRoad,B153ED
• Enrichedcurriculumincluding sport,music,art,dance,drama, languagesandoutdoorlearning
• Smallclasssizesensuring personalattention
• Outstandingacademicresults
• EducationinstillingChristian valuesoflearning,leadership, faithandservice
• Exceptionalpastoralcare buildingresilienceand confidence
• Experiencesandconnections thatofferawiderviewpointon theworldandvaluablenetworks
• Anall-througheducationthat removestheneedforSATs, 11Plustuitionandentryexams forsecondaryschool
Springfunforallthefamily
AguidetoWhat’sOnintheWestMidlands
EasterHolidays
AshEndHouseChildren’sFarm Tamworth
Hands-onfamily-friendlyfarm.Entry includesanimalfeed,tractor-trailer ride,pony-sit-onandlotsofanimal interaction.Outdoorplayareas available.Greatforchildrenparties! www.ashendchildrensfarm.co.uk
CadburyWorld Birmingham EasterFun 5–27Apr
BurntwoodAlpaca&AnimalFarm Burntwood EasterontheFarm
12-27Apr
Meetthebabyanimals,mini-beasts, reptilesandthealpacasandmaybe eventheEasterBunny!There’s plentyoffuntobehadonthefarm thisEaster.Bookonline www.burntwoodalpacas.co.uk
Crufts bppulseLIVEBirmingham 6-9Mar
Watchtheworld'stopdogsshowcase theirskillinfast-pacedeventslike agilityandflyball,watchexpert demonstrations,exploreawiderange ofshoppingopportunitiesandbepart ofhistoryasyouwatchthecrowning ofBestinShow.It’snotjusta competition;it'stheultimate celebrationofdogs! www.crufts.org.uk
SevenValleyRailway KidderminstertoHighley PeterRabbitTM Visit 29&30Mar
Takeanexcitingheritagetrainride outintothecountrysidetoseePeter Rabbitandlistentotalesofhis adventuresbeforeexploringthe interactiveexhibitsandtheoutdoor playarea.Therewillalsobemagic showsthroughoutthedayforallthe familytoenjoy–allincludedinyour ticketprice!
https://svr.co.uk/event /peter-rabbit
RedbyNight BlackCountryLivingMuseum, Dudley 5Apr(18:30)
ExploretheMuseumafter-hoursfor anatmosphericeveningoflive entertainment,industrial demonstrations,steamaction,vintage vehiclesandlivinghistory.Bringthe wholefamilyandfindoutwhythe BlackCountrywasfamously describedas‘blackbydayandredby night’.
https://bclm.com/red-by-night/
Enjoyadaychoc-fulloffunand discoverthestoryofhowtheymake CadburyChocolate.Interactive factorytourwithdemos,exciting rides,meetCadburycharacters.With plentyofchocolateytreats!Don’t missMr.CadburyParrot’sEaster Egg-stravaganzaStageShow! www.cadburyworld.co.uk
DraytonManor Tamworth
Thrillsandadventureforallthe familytoenjoy.Ticketsinclude ThomasLand,a15-acrezoo-home toover500animalsfromalloverthe world,aVikingsareaandnautically themedAdventureCove.Don’tmiss thespectacularAnniversary Fireworksonthefirstweekendof everymonthstarting5Aprtohonour 75yearsofepicfamilyfun! www.draytonmanor.co.uk
Events
HotWheelsMonsterTrucksLive: Glow-N-Fire
UtilitaArenaBirmingham 5–6Apr
Thisexcitingnewexperiencewill featurethesameleveloffunand excitementthatfanshavecometo expect,butwithanaddedfierytwist. Grabthefamilyandgetreadyforthe ultimatemonstertruckshow. www.utilitaarenabham.co.uk /whats-on
WarwickshireWildlifeTrust
FamilyBatNight
TheParkridgeCentre,Solihull 11Apr(19:00–20:45)
BrandonMarsh,Coventry 2May(19:30–21:00)
Uniqueeveningforallthefamily(age 4+)todiscovermoreabouttheworld ofbats.Useabatdetectoronashort walkaroundthereservoirandsee howmanyyoucanspot.Placesare limited.Familyticketsavailable. Bookonline. www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk
WolfRunJunior
TheOffchurchBury,Warwickshire 13Apr
Childrenover7andteenagerscanget atasteoftheactionandenjoywild runningandobstaclesatWolfRun Junior.3kcoursewithoptionalsecond lap!Enterby10Apr. www.thewolfrun.com
StoriesintheDust
NewhamptonArtsCentre, Wolverhampton 15Apr(11:00&14:00)
Afunny,heartfeltandhopefulpostapocalypticfamilyshowwithlive musicandpuppetryforages5+Book online. www.newhamptonarts.co.uk /events/stories-in-the-dust
HattonAdventureWorld NrWarwick
SpringSpectacular! 12-27Apr
Springtimefunandfrolicsatthefarm thisEaster.TheSpringArrivals Marqueewillbepackedwithbaby animalsandifyouwaitpatiently,you mightevenwitnessabirth!Come rainorshinethere’splentytodowith indoorandoutdoorattractionsand entertainmentforallthefamily. https://adventure.hattonworld.com
LegolandDiscoveryCentre
Birmingham
Getcreativeandhavefunwithyour favouriteLEGOcharactersin Miniland,the4Dcinema,the KingdomQuestRide,LegoCity Softplayandsomuchmore. www.legolanddiscoverycentre.com
MonkeyForest Trentham
Seenatureupclosewith140 fascinatingBarbarymacaquesto watchanddiscover.Plusanewplay areaforchildrentoexploreand replicatevariousprimatebehaviour. Funandeducational. www.monkey-forest.com
NationalSeaLifeCentre
Birmingham
AnimalCrossing:NewHorizons 12Apr–5May
Collectcharacterstamps,discover interestingfactsaboutthe inhabitantsofSEALIFEandmeet withTomNook&Isabelle!Allduring yourtriptotheUK’sonlyaquarium with360-degreeoceantunneland over60displaysoffreshwaterand marinelife. www.visitsealife.com/birmingham WestMidlandsSafariPark
Bewdley
EasterEggstravaganza 12–27Apr
Jointheegghunts,meetBramble BunnyandenjoyarangeofEaster festivitiesforthewholefamily!Don’t missBramble’sHoppyEasterShow andMeet&GreetwithChirpyChick! www.wmsp.co.uk
WinterbourneHouseandGarden Birmingham
TheGreenKingdom:GardenTrail 1Apr–31May
CelebratethelaunchofCornelia Funke’slatestbook,TheGarden Kingdom.Embarkonyourown adventureasyouunravelaseriesof riddlesatWinterbourne,discovering newplantsandexploringthegarden asyougo. www.winterbourne.org.uk
OutdoorFun
CelebrateEarthDay2025 Thinktank,Birmingham 22Apr
Explorethewondersofourplanetina wholenewwaywithextraunderthe seaactivitiesacrossthegalleriesto celebrateEarthDay!Don’tmiss performancesofOutintheDeepBlue fromAutinDanceTheatreCompany throughouttheday.Bookonline. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk /thinktank
PAWPatrol®Live!“TheGreatPirate Adventure” isComingto Birmingham. ThePackisBackandonaRollto theUtilitaArenaonSaturday16th August2025.
Thisaction-packed,music-filled productionwillseeRyderandhis teamofpupsembarkonapiratethemedadventuretouncoverhidden treasure.DonotmissthisPAWsome opportunitytoseethewholepacklive onstage.
Signupat
www.PAWPatrolLive.co.uk for exclusivedealsandtobethefirstto knowwhenticketsareavailableand bagthebestseatsinthehouse!
BirminghamWildlifeConservation Park Edgbaston
Hometoauniquecollectionof animalsfromacrosstheworld. Thereareredpandas,lemurs,reptiles, meerkats,otters,birds,wallabiesand acollectionofmonkeys. www.birmingham.gov.uk /conservationpark
MartineauGardens Birmingham 2.5acresoforganicallymanaged landscapetoexploreincludinga naturetrail,formalgardenand children’s‘shipwreck’playarea.Don’t misstheSpringFunDayon10May! www.martineau-gardens.org.uk
NationalTrust BirminghamandWestMidlands Exploretheoutdoorsthisspringatour localNationalTrustproperties: BirminghamBacktoBacks, Roundhouse,WightwickManorand Gardens,ClentHills&MoseleyOld Hall.Eachpropertyhasitsown uniquefamilyactivitiessowhynot visitthemall.Seeindividualwebsites fordetailsandprices. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
SuttonParkNatureReserve SuttonColdfield
Visitoneofthelargesturbanparksin Europe.Withplaygrounds, restaurants,sailing,bikeridingand kiteflying,there’ssomethingforthe wholefamily! www.birmingham.gov.uk/suttonpark WalsallArboretum TownCentre,Walsall Accessiblewalkways,boatinglake andlakesidecafé,tenniscourtsand acresofopenplayingfieldstoexplore. Plusachildren’splayareawithskate parkandsplashpad.FREEentry. www.go.wasall.gov.uk
Theatre
BirminghamHippodrome
Birmingham
ChittyChittyBangBang Tue4Mar–Sun9Mar
AgeRecommendation:5+ SharkinthePark
Sat29Mar–Sun6Apr AgeRecommendation:2+ www.birminghamhippodrome.com
CrescentTheatre
Birmingham PrincessLive! Mon21Apr www.crescent-theatre.co.uk
SuttonColdfieldTownHall
SuttonColdfield
TheFrogPrince Mon14Apr
TheLittlestYak Tue15Apr
ExcitingScience Mon21Apr
TheLittleMixShow Sat19Apr www.suttoncoldfieldtownhall.com
SymphonyHall
Birmingham
HowtoTrainYourDragon: InConcert Fri28Mar
FilmRating:PG
TownHall
Birmingham
Andy&TheOddSocks Sat5Apr
TheSmartestGiantinTown Sat12Apr–Sun13Apr
CBSOCentre
Birmingham
CBSO2024/25FamilyConcert: WherearealltheBlackFemale Composers? Sun16Mar
AgeRecommendation:6+
CBSO2024/25Notelets–Wind Quintet Fri28–Sat29Mar
AgeRecommendation:6+ www.bmusic.co.uk
TheAlexandraTheatre
Birmingham
HorribleHistories–TerribleTudors Thu10–Sat12Apr
AgeRecommendation:5+ HorribleHistories–AwfulEgyptians Thu10–Sat12Apr
AgeRecommendation:5+ www.atgtickets.com
TheCoreTheatre
Solihull
WestEndNights Fri14–Sat15Mar
SpringSing!2025BestoftheBands Sat26Apr
www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk
TheOldRepTheatre
Birmingham
TheMikado Thu6–Sat8Mar
AgeRecommendation:5+ www.oldrep.co.uk
TheRepTheatre
Birmingham
TheVeryHungry CaterpillarShow Mon14–Tue15Apr
AgeRecommendation:1+ TheWorstPrincess Wed23Apr
AgeRecommendation:3+ www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
Museums &History
BirminghamMuseum&ArtGallery
Birmingham
VisittheRoundRoom,Industrial Gallery,Tearoomandmuseumshop, plusanewfamilygallery,WildCity andPixelStudio.Don’tmissthe world-renownedWildlife PhotographeroftheYearexhibition onloanfromtheNaturalHistory Museumuntil20Apr(Wed-Sun 10:00–17:00)FREEentry. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk /birmingham-museum-and-artgallery
DudleyMuseumattheArchives
Dudley
Filledwithfantasticfossilsand guaranteedfun,enjoyawholehost ofdisplaysincludinggeology, dinosaurs,historicfindsfromDudley Castle,localheroes,glassand artworkeveryThu,FriandSat. FREEentry. www.dudley.gov.uk
DudleyZoo&Castle
Dudley
Hometoalargecollectionof endangeredspeciesaswellasbeing thesiteofan11thcenturycastle-an importantgeologicalsite. www.dudleyzoo.org.uk
LapworthMuseumofGeology
UniversityofBirmingham Goandseethefinestandmost extensivecollectionsoffossils, mineralsandrocksintheMidlands. Excitingfamilyactivities,educational talks,toursandarts&craftsactivities. www.birmingham.ac.uk
SandwellMuseums
Sandwell,variouslocations
Explorearangeofdifferent museumsincludingOakHouse Museum(ahalf-timbered farmhouse),BromwichHall(a medievalmoatedmanorhouse),and more.MostlyFREEtovisit.Seasonal familyactivities. www.sandwell.gov.uk/museums
SellyManorMuseum Birmingham Stepbackintimetodiscoverhow theTudorscooked,dressedand lived.Exploretheparlour,dininghall, kitchenandbedchamber.Dressup inreplicacostumesandsuitof armour.FREEchildren’strail. www.sellymanormuseum.org.uk
GetActive
AckersAdventure
Birmingham
GetinvolvedwiththeactionatAckers, includinglearntoskilessons(4+), tubingortobogganing,discgolf, sessionsforhomeschoolersand holidaycamps. www.ackers-adventure.co.uk AdventureGolf
FourAshesGolfCentre,Solihull 18holesoffunpackedadventuregolf withcascadingwaterfalls,rocky routesandapossibleholeinone-It’s funforallthefamily! https://fourashesgolfcentre.co.uk /ad venture-golf-course-midlands/ CliffLakes Tamworth
TheUltimatewatersportsdestination! HometotheUK’sbiggestAquaPark. Withanextensiverangeofinflatable slides,climbingwallsandtrampolines over5parks.PlusSUPandcoldwater swimming. www.clifflakes.co.uk
GoApeCannock Chase (Staffordshire),WyreForest (Kidderminster),CoombeAbbey (Coventry)
Forthrill-seekingadultsandfunseekingchildrenexperiencethebest ofhighropeantics,forestsegways, netadventures,ziptrekadventure,axe throwingandmini-LandRovers. Activitiesvarybylocation. Bookonline. www.goape.co.uk
JuniorParkrun
VariousLocations AFREE,funandfriendlyweekly2K eventforjuniors(4-14yearsold)Every Sundayat9:00.Childrenmustbeable tocompletethecoursewithoutan adult. www.parkrun.com
RushUKTrampolinePark
Stirchley,Birmingham
Theultimateplayexperienceforall ages!OpenJump,SunsetSessions, ToddlerTakeoverandNEWValoArena -Theworld’sfirstmixedreality playground.Plus,thebounciest partiesintown!Bookonline. www.rushuk.com
NPFBassetsPoleAdventurePark
SuttonColdfield
Kidsandfunfamilyactivities,idealfor keepingactive,adventurouskids entertained.Paintball,LaserTag, Archery,Bushcraft,QuadTrekking, JungleEscape,Gelballandmuch more.Alldesignedforchildren,age restrictionsapply. www.npfbassettspole.com
PlanetIce
Solihull
Skateforfun,learntoskate,booka partyortakethefamilytowatchan IceHockeygameandsupportthe SolihullBaronsthisSpring.See websiteforfixturesandbooking. www.planet-ice.co.uk www.solihull-barons.net
RockUp Birmingham
Enjoysomehealthy,action-packed funinasafeenvironment.Climbing walls(age4+),toddlerclimbandplay (upto5’s),verticalchallenges,high ropes(minheightrequirements)plus softplayfor0-5’s.Alsoavailablefor groupbookings,schoolsandparties. www.rock-up.co.uk
TheChocolate5K RowheathPavilion,Birmingham 29Mar
Signthewholefamilyupforthissupersweet,familyfriendlyfun-runin supportoflocalpeoplelivingwithaterminaldiagnosis,andtheirlovedones. MakeyourwaythroughtheparksandstreetsofBournville,passing chocolatestationsateachkilometretoreceiveawell-deservedtreattopop intoyourgoodiebag!CrossthefinishlinebackatRowheathPavilionto receiveyourmedalandcelebrate!
TheChocolate5kisforabsolutelyanyoneandeveryone;walk,runorjog withyourfriends,family,co-workers,orfurryfriends…orifyouprefer,just yourself!Childrenofallagescantakepart–thecourseissuitablefor pushchairsandwheelchairs.
FancydressisencouragedsofeelfreetoembraceyourinnerOompa Loompaorfavouritechocolatesnack!
There’splentyoftreatstogoround,sosignuponlinetodayanddoyourbit toraisevitalfundsforcharity: www.birminghamhospice.org.uk/get-involved/fundraise/events /the-chocolate-5k
Ifrunningisnotforyou,whynotvolunteer? Simplygetintouchwiththe BirminghamHospiceEventsTeamformoreinformationon events@birminghamhospice.org.uk or 01214652009.
Yourchild’sspeech andlanguage development
ByKateLewisandKatieKennedy
Watchingyourchild’sspeechdevelopovertimeisvery excitingbutiftheydon’tmeetorhitexpectedmilestones,you mayconsiderittobeacauseforconcern.Pleasedon’tpanic though!Speechandlanguageskillsdeveloprapidlyinthefirst yearsoflifeandeverychildprogressesattheirownpace.
Thesemilestonesaregeneralguidelinesratherthanrigid expectations:
12–18months: Bythisage,childrentypicallysaytheirfirstwords andmayhaveavocabularyoffivetotwentywords.Theybegin tonamefamiliarobjects,imitatesoundsandunderstandsimple commandslike‘Givemetheball.’
18–24months: Vocabularygrowsrapidlyduringthisperiod. Toddlersmayhavearoundfiftywordsby18monthsandcombine twowordsintosimplephraseslike‘wantcookie’or‘gopark.’ Theyunderstandmorethantheycansay,followingdirections like‘putitinthebox.’
2–3years: Byage2,childrenoftenusetwotothreehundred wordsandstartformingthree-orfour-wordsentences.They beginaskingquestionslike‘What’sthat?’andcanbeunderstood byfamiliarlistenersabouthalftothreequartersofthetime.
3–4years: Atthisagechildrentypicallyuselongersentences andhaveavocabularyofathousandwordsormorebyage 4.Theycantellsimplestories,ask‘why?’questionsandbe understoodbystrangersmostofthetime.
Boostingspeechandlanguagedevelopment
Therearelotsofthingsyoucandotosupportyourchild’s speechandlanguagedevelopment:
Books,booksandmorebooks! Readingbookswithyourchild helpsthemtobuildvocabularyandlearnsentencestructure skills,whilesparkingimaginationandcreatingopportunitiesto connect.Keepthemengagedbyusingobjectsandtoysasprops –learningiswaymorefunwhenyoubringmeaningtowords throughreal-worldexperiences.
Copyyourchild. Byrepeatingthesounds,wordsandphrases yourchildsays,youbuildastrongerconnectionwiththem,
Takeamomenttopause
whilealsolettingthemknowyou’reinterestedinwhattheyhave tosay,regardlessoftheformofcommunicationtheypreferto use.Itmightfeelstrangeatfirstbutremembertowatchtheir reactionswhentheyrealiseyou’rejoininginwiththeirpreferred communicationmethod!
Singsongsandnurseryrhymes
Songsandnurseryrhymesarerepetitive,whichhelpstobuildup achild’sunderstandingofthelanguageused.Childrenpickup onchangesintoneofvoiceusedwhenwesingwhichhelpsto engagethemandpiquetheirinterest.
Avoidaskingquestions
Foreveryfivethingswesaytoourchildren,onlyoneofthese shouldbeaquestion.It’scommontoaskrhetoricalquestions duringplaywithourchild,evenwhenwe’renotexpectingthem toanswerback.Changethesequestionsintocomments.Instead of‘Doyouhavethecar?say‘Youhavethecar!’
It’simportanttoremember…
Everychildisuniqueanddevelopingcommunicationshould befunandinteractive.Havinganawarenessofdevelopmental milestonesandsupportingthemwiththetipsabovewillstand youingoodsteadtoincreaseyourchild’scommunicationskills.
KateandKatiearespeechandlanguagetherapistsatMagic WordsTherapywhichprovidesabroadrangeofexpertspeech andlanguagetherapyservicesforchildrenandadults. Findoutmoreatwww.magicwordstherapy.co.uk
Birmingham GIVEAWAY! WinaPup-tacularFamilyAdventurewith PawPatrolLive!
StorieswithSymbols
ShivermetimBARKS!Oneluckyfamilyhasthechancetowin4ticketsto seePawPatrolLive!“TheGreatPirateAdventure”atUtilitaArenaon16 August2025.YourfavouritePiratePatrolarehittingthestageforanactionpackedperformancethatwillhavethewholefamilyhowlingwith excitement.
Lifecangetbusyandchaoticattimes,sogiveyourself permissiontopause.Pausingduringplaytoobserveyour childcanhelpyoutobetterunderstandwhytheymaybe interestedinaparticulartoyoractivityandyoucanuse thesepausestobuildanticipation.
Winneralsoreceivesanexclusivebundleofpirate-themed PawPatrolgoodies,soyourlittleadventurerscanjointhe funinstyle. Enteratbit.ly/42KyJbYorscanthe QRcodeforyourchancetowin! Closingdate:18April2025T&Csatwww.bit.ly/PPLTCS
Forexample,pausingbeforeyougiveyourchildsomething canhelptoprovidethemwithacommunicationopportunity. Pausingallowsachildspacetouseandexplorethe communicationmethodsavailabletothem.
Asaboosttoyourhomebookshelf,StorieswithSymbols (www.storieswithsymbols.com)isacomprehensive,free onlineresourcedesignedtosupportchildrenwithlanguage andcommunicationneeds.Itfeaturescompellingvideos thatpairstorytellingwithon-screenWidgitcommunication symbols.Thevideosaimtosparkaninterestinreadingand bookswhileteachingnewwordsandconcepts. Bookscanbeaccessibleandenrichingforall-every booksharedisasteptowardsstrongerlanguageand communicationskills.
Connectwithus
Must-havenewbabyproductstomake parentingeasier
ByMalloryReynolds-Trout
Knowingwhattobuyasanewparentscanbeachallenge.Sohereisourpickofthelatestmust-havesfor2025.
OakWarmBrownTrippTrapp
HighchairfromStokke
TheiconicTrippTrapp®bringsyour littleonerightuptoyourtableandinto theheartofyourfamilytoconnectand develop.CraftedfromEuropeanwoodwith sustainabilityinmind,itisbuilttolastand growwithyourchild.Thenewestvariation isthebeautifulOakWarmBrown,made fromoakwood.Availablefrom£245at www.stokke.com
Olive&BudClothing
Amidstthebeautifulchaosofraisinglittle ones,Olive&Budrecognisestheneedfor simplicity,convenienceandsustainability. Theiroversized,longlasting,comfyclothes inneutralandmutedcoloursarebeautiful. Newlaunchesincludesherpagilets(£45), ginghamdungarees(£29),cosypramsuits (£40)inpopcornandhotchoccy,withpjs andsleepsuitsinnavyandcaramel(£33). www.oliveandbud.co.uk
PRENTAShoes
PRENTA’snewcollectionofshoes seamlesslyblendsarichcolourtonewitha minimalistaesthetic,signaturesilhouettes andsustainablematerials,celebratinga funandvibrantattitude.Eachshoehas beenmeticulouslydesignedandcreated inEnglandtooffertheultimatesupport. www.prentashoes.co.uk
TheSmarTrikeTraveler
SmarTrikerecentlylaunchedtheSmarTrike Traveler-thegroundbreakingstrollerthat transformsintoatrikeinseconds,with thepushofabutton.Frombaby’sfirst tripouttotoddler’sfirstride,ittransforms seamlesslyfromafullyfunctioning,super lightweight(7.6kg),foldablestroller,toan independenttrike.Oncelittleonesare ready,theycanpedalawayattheirown pace!From£399atwww.smartrike.co.uk
DaisyFirstAidKits
DaisyFirstAidhavelaunchedtheireightytwopiece Children’sFirstAidKitforjust£20.Filledwithallthe essentialsforanyoutingwiththelittleones,it’stheperfect sizetofitinyourchangingbag.Contentsincludeplasters, icepacks,tweezers,scissors,salinecleansingwipes,eye pads,gloves,safetypinsandevenbraverystickers.Order directfromwww.daisyfirstaid.com
HealthyMamaHappyBaba
NutritionalSupplement
HealthyMamaHappyBabaisapioneering nutritionalsupplementdesignedfor expectantandnewmothers.Createdbyan expertnutritionist,Ann-MarieMarshallafter herownchallengingpregnancy,thisunique veganelixircombinesthirtyeightkey superfoods,vitamins,minerals,probiotics andnaturalgalactagoguestosupportboth motherandbabyfrompre-conceptionthroughtopost-birth.ProducedintheUKand availablefromwww.healthymamahappybaba.co.ukat£74.99foramonthlysupply.
TheYOYO3Strollerfrom Stokke
ExcitingadditionstothenewYOYO3 strollerincludelargerstoragespace undertheseat,apeek-a-boowindow, anextendedcanopyforbettersun protectionandextrasuspensionfora smoothride.Availablefrom£339from www.stokke.com
TheUltimateWeaning&Toddler Cookbook byCharlotteStirling-Reed RegularspeakeratTheBabyShow,CharlotteStirling-Reed issettoreturnthisspringwithherlatestcookbook, The UltimateWeaning&ToddlerCookbook. Filledwithone hundrednew,simple,nutrition-packedrecipestohelpyou putgoodfoodfirstintheearlyyears,you’llnolongerneedto fallbackonthesameoldprocessedfoods,makingcooking foryourbabyandtoddlereasierthanever.Publishedby Vermilionandavailablefrom6March,RRP£22. www.srnutrition.co.uk
Which toddlerclass is rightfor yourchild?
ByAndrewCampbell
Choosingclassesforunder5scanbeanexcitingwayto supporttheirearlydevelopment.Whileparent-toddler playgroupsofferinformalinteractionandplayforsocialisation, structuredtoddlerclassesfocusonthedevelopmentof specificareaslikemusicormovement.Ledbyinstructors, thesesessionsopenupaworldofpossibilitiesforyourchild. Butwithsomanyoptionsavailable,itsimportanttoconsider thebestfit.
Yourchild’sinterestsandpersonality. Dotheyenjoymusicand rhythm,physicalactivitieslikeclimbingandrunningorcreative pursuitslikecrafting?Selectingactivitiestheyarenaturally drawntowillincreasetheirenthusiasmandensuretheyenjoy theexperience.
Classsizeandatmosphere. Smallergroupsoftenprovide moreindividualattention,whichisidealforyoungchildren.The settingshouldbeencouragingandsupportive,withafocuson havingfunandlearningthroughplay,ratherthanacompetitive atmosphere.Toddlersandpre-schoolersthriveinpositive environmentswheretheycanexplorewithoutpressure.
Qualified,caringinstructors. Teachersshouldbeskilledin theirfield-whetherit’sarts,musicorsports-andexperienced inworkingwithyoungchildren.Patience,understanding andcreativityarekeyqualities.Observingaclassorasking otherparentsforrecommendationscanhelpyouevaluatethe instructor’ssuitability.
Trialclasses. Manyprovidersofferthesetrials,sometimesfree, givingyouandyourchildthechancetoseewhattheactivityis likebeforeenrollingforaterm.It’sanexcellentwaytoensurethe
classmeetsyourchild’sneedsandinterests.
Franchise-runorindependent? Thereareprosandconsto each.Franchiseclassesoftenprovideastandardisedapproach, consistentqualityandreliableresources.Ontheotherhand, independentlyrunclassesmayoffermoreflexibilityanda personalisedtouch.However,thequalityofsessionscanvaryso doyourresearchandtakeadvantageoftrials.
Safety. Thisshouldalwaysbeapriority.Ensurefacilitiesare child-friendlyandwell-maintained.Gymnasticsclassesshould havepaddedfloors,artsessionsshouldusenon-toxicmaterials andsportsactivitiesmustincludeproperwarm-upsand attentivesupervisiontominimiserisks.
Yourchild’stemperament. Quieterchildrenmayprefersmaller, relaxedmusicorartsessions,whilehigh-energyyoungsters couldthriveinmoredynamicsportssettings.Therightclasscan ignitealifelongpassionorsimplyhelpyourchildgrowwhile enjoyingafunandengagingexperience.Takeyourtime,trust yourinstinctsandenjoywatchingthemthrive.
Toddlerclassoptions
Thereareusuallyplentyoflocaloptions,somebookableby thetermorhalftermandotherspay-as-you-goonaweekly basis.
Forthecreativechild,messypre-schoolplayclassesaregreat funandtakeheartfromthefactthatyouwon’tberequiredto clearupafterwards!Alternatively,childrenwhoenjoydressing up,roleplay,dancingorsingingmayenjoyperformingarts classes.Classesareavailableforunder5sinmanyperforming artsanddanceschools.
Youmayliketheideaofanoutdooractivity,inwhichcase ForestSchoolwherelearningtakesplaceinanatural environmentviahandsonexperiencesmightworkforyour child.Oryoumightliketheideaofyourchildstartingtolearn alanguageorenjoyingasensoryplayclasswhichsupports braindevelopmentandcognitivegrowth.
Forthemorego-getting,activechild,therearesomanysports classesforunder5sinavarietyofdisciplines,including football,gymnastics,rugby,swimming,trampolining,martial arts–andnodoubtmorewehaven’tthoughtof!
Whymartialarts trainingisagame changerforyourchild
Asparents,weallwantthebestforour children,hopingtoinstillinthemimportant lifeskillssuchasdiscipline,respect,and resilience.Oneactivitythatisprovento promotethesequalitiesismartialarts. Whetheryourchildisenergetic,shy,or somewhereinbetween,enrollingthem inmartialartscanhavefar-reaching benefitsthatwillpositivelyimpacttheir academic,physical,andemotional development.
BuildingConfidenceAndDiscipline
Martialartstrainingteacheschildrentoset andachievegoals,promotingastrongsense ofdiscipline.Thestructuredenvironmentof martialartsclassesencourageschildrentofocus, followinstructions,andpushthroughchallenges.Astheyprogress throughranks,earningbeltsfortheirachievements,they experienceatremendousboostinself-esteem.Thisgrowingsense ofaccomplishmentcarriesoverintootherareasoftheirlives, helpingthemfeelmoreconfidentinschoolandsocialsituations.
ImprovingPhysicalFitnessAndCoordination
Martialartsprovidesanexcellentwaytokeepkidsphysically active.Itengagesthebodyinafullspectrumofmovement, improvingstrength,flexibility,andcoordination.Classes emphasisebalance,agility,andendurance,helpingchildren developskillsthatenhancetheiroverallphysicalfitness. Additionally,it’safunandengagingwaytobuildhealthyhabits thatcanlastalifetime.
TeachingRespectAndEmotionalControl
Inmartialarts,respectforothersisafundamentalvalue.Children learntobowbeforetraining,showappreciationtotheirinstructors, andtreattheirpeerswithkindnessandhumility.Martialartsalso teachesemotionalcontrol,helpingkidsmanagefrustration,stress, andevenangerinapositiveway.Thisemotionalintelligenceis vitalinnavigatingtheupsanddownsofschoollifeandbeyond.
Byenrollingyourchildinmartialarts,youaregivingthemmore thanjustasport.Youaresettingthemonthepathtobecominga well-rounded,disciplined,andconfidentindividual.
DidYouKnow? TheUKslargestfulltimemartial artsandboxingcentreisinthe WestMidlands!TheCombat SportsCentreislocatedjust outsideSolihullTownCentre. Theyofferarangeofclassesfor allages(receptionageplus) taughtbytheirteamofWorld ClassInstructors.
Interested?BookaFREElesson combatsportscentre.co.uk
A Accclaimed claimed
CompiledbyAndrewCampbell
TheUKisbrimmingwith‘must-see’museumswith plentyforfamiliestoexplore.Engagewithhistory inNottinghamshire,sparkyoungimaginationsin LondonandseeartcometolifeinMargate!Here areourtoppicks.Allthemuseumsfeaturedhave eitherwonorbeenshortlistedintheFamily-Friendly MuseumAwards2024byKidsinMuseums (www.kidsinmuseums.org.uk)
TheTeesValleyMuseums,Teeside
Anexcitingworldofdiscoveryforchildrenawaitsatthesefive museums,withhands-onexhibits,interactivedisplaysand workshopsthatmakelearningfun.Eachmuseumfeatures uniqueactivities,fromexploringlocalhistorytoengaging increativeartsessions.Kidscanenjoyplayfuleducational experiencesinawarm,welcomingatmosphere.Endless opportunitiesforfunandimagination! www.teesvalleymuseums.org
NationalGalleriesScotland,Edinburgh
ShortlistedBestLargeMuseum
Childrencanimmersethemselvesinavarietyofcreative activitiesrangingfromhands-onartworkshopstostorytelling sessionsinspiredbythegallery’siconicartworks.Interactive stationsallowyoungvisitorstoexperimentwithcoloursand shapesandfamiliescanjoinfun-filledeventsthatexplore differentarttechniquesorengageintreasurehuntsdesignedto uncoverartistictreasures. www.nationalgalleries.org
Science and Industry Museum
ScienceandIndustry Museum,Manchester
ShortlistedforBestLarge Museum
Delveintoaworldof discoverythroughexciting, hands-onactivities thatbringscienceand technologytolife!From buildingcircuitsto experimentingwithforces ininteractivezones, there’ssomethingtospark curiosityineverylittle scientist.Familiescanjoin creativeworkshops,takepart inlivedemonstrationsorenjoy fun-filledscienceshows. www.scienceandindustry museum.org.uk
YoungV&A,London
Avibranthubofcreativitydesignedtoinspireyoung minds.Celebratingart,designandperformance,ithouses interactiveexhibits,hands-onworkshopsandcaptivating displaystailoredforchildrenandfamilies.Highlightsincludeiconic toys,playfulinstallationsandopportunitiestoexploreimaginative spaces.Themuseumfosterscreativityandcuriosityinyoung audiencesandisamust-visitdestinationforfamiliesseekingan unforgettableexperience. www.vam.ac.uk/young
TheTurnerContemporary,Margate,Kent
Offersafantasticexperienceforchildren,with interactiveexhibitsandfamily-friendlyactivitiesthat bringarttolife.Kidscanexplorecreativeworkshops, hands-onartprojectsandplayfulinstallations,sparking theirimaginationandcuriosity.Thegallery’swelcoming atmosphereandengagingprogrammesensureafunand educationalvisitforfamilies.OverlookingMargate’sbeautiful coastline,it’stheperfectplaceforchildrentodiscoveralovefor artandcreativity. www.turnercontemporary.org
MuseumofMaking, Derby,Derbyshire
ShortlistedforBestMedium Museum
Discoveranincrediblespace wherechildrencanengagewith interactiveexhibitsshowcasing creativityandinnovation.Kids willrevelinhands-onactivities, likebuildingandcreatingin dedicatedworkshops,while interactivedisplaysunravel thewondersofdesignand technology.Educational programmesinspireand encourageexploration. www.derbymuseums.org
WINNER
Best Accessssible Museum
TheCooperGallery, Barnsley,South Yorkshire
Anopportunityfor anenrichingandfun experienceforchildren. Withinteractiveartdisplays, creativeworkshopsandfamily-friendly activities,theGalleryisperfectfor sparkingyoungimaginations.Kidscan exploreartthroughhands-onsessions andexcitingexhibitsdesignedjustfor them.Thegallery’swelcomingvibeand dedicatedchildren’sprogrammesmake itagreatoptionforadayout. www.cooper-gallery.com
WINNER Best Medium Museum
NationalCivilWar Centre,Newark, Nottinghamshire
Takeafascinating glimpseinto England’stumultuous past!Dedicatedto preservingCivilWar history,itboastsimmersive exhibits,rareartifactsand interactivedisplaysthatbring the17th-centuryconflict tolife.Visitorscanexplore pivotalmomentsofthe EnglishCivilWar,including Newark’ssignificanceas aroyaliststronghold.With knowledgeableguidesanda vibrantatmosphere,it’satop choiceforhistoryloversand thecurious! www.nationalcivilwarcentre. com
WINNER Best Museum Youth Group
WINNER BestSmall Museum
MuseumofMaking
TheTeesValleyMuseums
Cookonce,eattwice
BySamMilner
Asparentswhoworkfromhomeandwithhecticfamily schedules,wetakeeveryopportunitytofollowthe‘cookonce eattwice’methodusingourairfryer.
Ifyouhavenotheardofcookingonceandeatingtwice,theidea isthatyoudoublebatchameal,providingenoughfoodfortwo mealtimesinsteadofone.Ittakesalotofpressureoutofmeal preparationsandifyoudothisjustthreetimesaweek,youwill soonhaveafreezerburstingwithmealsthatyoucanreheatin anairfryer.Thenonthosenightswhenyoudon’thavetimeto cookatall,youcangraboneofyourtrustedeattwicemealsand reheatitfromfrozen.
Ifyou’reworriedthatthismethodwilltakeuptoomuchtime, rememberthepreptimeformanycookonce,eattwicerecipes isoftennolongerthanthepreptimeforonemeal.It’salsoworth notingthatanairfryerisanindependentcookingmachineand unlikeapan,youcanleaveittodothecooking,freeingyouupto attendtootherjobsorsimplyspendtimetogether.
Whattypeofrecipesshouldyoubepreparingforacookonce, eattwicetheme? Anythingyouwouldbakeintheovenisa goodstartingpoint.Orsomethingthatwouldbefamiliartoyou fromthereadymealsaisleofasupermarket.Inotherwords,the kindofairfryermealsyoucanfreezeinfoilcontainersandthen cookinanairfryerinafoiltray,reducingyourwashingupwhen youcomebackforyoursecondbatch.
Myfavouritesinclude lasagne,moussaka,macaronicheese, enchiladas,curry andothersimilaroven-friendlyrecipesthat caneasilybecookedmuchfasterintheairfryerwithoutthe needforpreheating.
Makeadoublebatchoftherecipeandportionupthefirstmeal
HecticTuesdayVeggie LoadedMoussaka
Theideaforthismoussakarecipecameaboutbecauseour kidswerealloutatdifferentafterschoolclubsonthesame nightanditwasimpossibletofindawindowforafamily dinner.Wehadoursonoutat4pm,ourdaughterleavingat 5.45pmandthenoureldestsonleavingat7pm. Between4pmand7pm,wedidn’thavemorethantenminutes whenwewereallhome,plustherewerelotsofpick-ups goingon!Soourmoussakawasdedicatedtofamiliestrying desperatelytojuggleafterschoolclubswithawholesome week-nightmeal.
Youcanmakethemoussakaaheadoftime. Astherecipemakestwomeals,howabout makingoneforthisTuesdayandanother fornextTuesday?Themealcanbekept warmintheairfryeruntileveryoneisfinally hometobefedandisloadedwithvegto provideanutritiousboost.
fordinner.Then,asyouaredoingthewashingup,addthe secondmealtoafoiltray.Oncecool,labelandfreezeit.Oryou cankeepitinthefridge;ifyoulovetherecipe,youmaywant roundtwothenextday!Thenasyoustarttobuildupafreezer supplyyoucanhaveavarietyofmealsafewtimesaweek withoutfeelinglikeyouareinamealtimerut.
SamandDomMilneraretheco-authorsof AirFryerEasyEvery Day:140super-simpledeliciousrecipes (£20,WhiteLion Publishing)availablefromwww.bookshop.organdfoundersof www.recipethis.com
Nevermissanissue
Signupat familiesmag.co.uk/go
Wealsomadethisdeliciousenchiladarecipefollowingthe cookonce,eattwicetheme.Thistime,therecipecanbe usedeitherforquickaccessburritosorforenchiladas. Ourdaughter’sfriendgoestoalotofdancepracticeand gymnastics,soIwasthinkingofherwhenIcameupwiththis idea.Kidsaresobusythesedaysanddefinitelyneedtoeat plentyoffillingbutnutritiousfood.
Theseenchiladasareloadedwithbeansandvegandalong withthewrapswillleavethekidsfull forlonger.Thisrecipeisalsogoodfora triplebatchbecauseyoucanfreezeitas pre-loadedwrapstodefrostfromfrozen wheneveryouneedaquicklunchordinner onthego.
Werecommendfreezingtheseenchiladas infoiltraysforeasycleanupafterwardsor ifyouaremakinganextrabatchofloaded burritostofreezetheminfreezerbags.
