Families Dorset Issue 13 Sept-Oct 2014

September/October 2014

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Back to school & education news

Cover image: Monsoon

Can extra tuition help?

Confidence Building Fun Try a Free Drama Class

After school clubs and classes Half Term and Halloween Activities Watch your child’s self-esteem soar with our weekly classes for 4–12s Child development is at the heart of everything we do. So our drama, dance and singing sessions will boost your child’s confidence, improve their concentration and give them an outlet to have fun.

We have opened a new school in Poole. Call 0845 400 1320 or visit perform.org.uk for a free class at your nearest venue.

The really useful magazine for parents with children 0 to 12 years in Dorset

International Walk to School Month

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Local News Creating a healthy dialogue with your school or nursery 5 Can extra tuition help?

6 Ed’s reading room 8 Why it’s important for children to do after-school activities 9 Clubs & Classes 10 Mindfulness 12 What’s On in September/October 14 Halloween Half Term Activities

Dorset magazine Editor: Sarah Carr 07876 761623 editor@familiesdorset.co.uk www.familiesdorset.co.uk Next issue: November/December 2014 Booking deadline: 6 October 2014 24,000 readers per issue Printed by Bishops

October is International Walk to School Month. Each year, primary school pupils from across the UK join forces with children in more than 40 countries worldwide to celebrate the benefits of walking to school. 90% of parents who walk to school tell us how important this time is for spending quality time with their children. Over a third tell us that the journey to school is where they find out the most about their child’s life.

For further information visit: www.livingstreets.org.uk

Get ready for back to school with Explore Learning!

Get the new academic year off to a great start at Explore Learning. Our tailored courses are designed to support your child to become a confident and engaged learner.

Explore Learning centres provide Maths, English and 11+ tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis. Call your local centre to book a free trial, or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Get your little ones on the rugby pitch with Rugbytots Rugbytots was started in 2006 to fill a gap in the child development sector by using Rugby specific skills to aid in the development of young children between the ages of two and seven.

Rugbytots now has 90 franchises across 12 different countries and runs 1,700 sessions each week.

The programme has been designed to develop children’s physical, psychological and social attributes, as well as gently encouraging rugby specific skills such as running with the ball, finding space, kicking, catching, scoring a try and much more.

Weekday and weekend morning sessions start in September at six different venues across Bournemouth & Christchurch with full details and booking on the website. Email: angus@rugbytots.co.uk. www.rugbytots.co.uk.

Could you be a Home-Start volunteer? @familiesdorset www.facebook.com/FamiliesDorset Copyright: Families Dorset 2014 Data Protection: if you send us your name and address in order to win a prize in a competition, we may supply your details to the company offering the prize. If you would prefer us not to do this please state this on your entry.

Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners risk and whilst every care is taken, neither Families Dorset not its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for consequence.

Families Dorset is part of a group established in 1990 headed by Families South West London. All magazines are independently owned and operated under licence.

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Home-Start West Dorset is a local independent charity across West Dorset, Weymouth and Portland. Many Home-Start volunteers visit families at home for 2-3 hours each week, supporting parents in situations as diverse as isolation, bereavement, multiple births, illness, disability or who are just finding parenting a struggle. They provide non-judgmental practical and emotional support and help build the family's confidence and ability to cope.

To get Home-Start support, families must have at least one child under five, and there must be a volunteer available to support them. Home-Start UK runs more services and has more volunteers supporting more families than any other family support charity in the UK. Call 01305 265072 for more details or email: office@homestartwestdorset.co.uk

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Families Dorset Magazine

To include your business news in these pages email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk

Learn to read in 5 Weeks for FREE* with the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge!

News

Up to 30th September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

Readings Eggs provides a comprehensive range of online reading lessons and eBooks that teach children aged 3–13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success.

The reason why over 90% of parents using Reading Eggs report a noticeable improvement in their child’s reading skills is because the programme makes learning phonics and basic reading skills fun.

Sign up for our special 5 WEEK FREE trial* as part of the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs.

Simply register your child at www.readingeggs.co.uk/dorset Registration is quick, easy and FREE! *Free trial only available to new customers who sign up at the above address. Not applicable for schools.

Learn to Read in 5 Weeks – for FREE! From 30 July to 30 September your child can join thousands of children across the UK taking part in the Reading Eggs Great Literacy Challenge – a nationwide effort to inspire children to read!

This FREE event will give your child 5 WEEKS FREE* access to Reading Eggs – the online reading programme that teaches children aged 3 – 13 the literacy skills needed for lifetime reading success.

Sign up for your FREE trial* today and see for yourself how your child’s reading improves by using Reading Eggs.

Book your FREE trail session with Perform Drama, dance and singing weekly workshops for 4-12 year olds to help develop confidence, co-ordination, communication and concentration skills. A fun-packed mix of energetic dances, games and catchy songs will guarantee to be the best fun your child will have all week.

Free Trial Session Available!

New schools opening all over London, Hampshire, Wiltshire, W. Sussex, Dorset and Staines. For further information or to book call 0845 400 4000 or email: enquiries@perform.org.uk or go to www.perform.org.uk

Everyone’s favourite bear Pooh publicises England’s Simple Pleasures

5 WEEK TRIAL*

Teddy Bears are perennial and draw scores of visitors to The Teddy Bear Museum at Dorchester. Now Visit England are using Pooh, the people’s favourite bear, to highlight England’s great natural attractions.

“Bears are a huge draw as everyone has a place in their heart for teddies, and its great that the Visit Britain campaign is using Pooh to publicise England’s Simple Pleasures. Our Pooh collection is a firm favourite with visitors.” says Jackie Ridley the museum’s curator The Teddy Bear Museum at Dorchester features many of Britain’s favourite bears including Pooh, Paddington, Rupert and Sooty. The Teddy Bear Museum was recently featured on BBC’s Antique Road Trip. It is open everyday from 10am to 5pm.

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FREE

Hurry, offer ends 30 September 2014.

Register today at

www.readingeggs.co.uk/dorset *Free trial only available for new customers who sign up at the above address.

The multi-award winning online reading programme!

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Families Dorset Magazine 14/07/2014 9:34 am

How to create a healthy dialogue with your school or nursery

By Hannah Hunter Research shows that the better your relationship with your child’s school, the more they will enjoy learning and do well.

However it’s often impossible to know what really goes on at school – children are not always forthcoming when it comes to recounting their day. If they do raise any issues, or if you sense something is amiss, it can be difficult to know how to broach the subject with school.

As both a parent and a primary teacher, I know how hard it can be to strike the right balance. If you’re meeting a teacher outside of parents’ evening or class surgeries, it’s because there is a problem.

These meetings can easily become tense, with both ‘sides’ on the defensive.

Assume the best of your child’s teacher They are trained professionals who understand the curriculum and child development. They ultimately want the same as you – a happy child who is learning.

Let teachers know if there are problems at home You don’t have to go into graphic detail, just tell them if something’s happened which may affect your child’s behaviour.

Helping out in school

Don’t assume that your child always tells the truth After all, teachers don’t automatically believe what your child tells them about home.

Remain calm and neutral “My child came home rather upset about what happened, I wondered what your take on it is”, rather than “Why did you shout at my child like that?”

Mediation If you have issues with a teacher’s conduct, and feel upset or angry, it’s best that an additional member of staff is present.

School Trips If you’ve had the DBS check, this one is great for ingratiating yourself. On what is invariably a stressful day, a responsible parent helping out can be a lifesaver!

Talk to the teacher first Even negative feedback is appreciated. Going directly to the head is a bit like them phoning your boss whenever your child misbehaves!

Remember that teachers are human They sometimes make mistakes, so try to forgive them for it.

Get an insight into how things are run and improve your relationship with the school by volunteering.

Parent Helper Helping out in class can be fun and rewarding. Research shows that having a parent who volunteers improves a child’s experience of school. Organise a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check - you can then volunteer regularly or as a one-off.

Use your Expertise Maybe there’s a school club that would fit your skill set or interests.

If not, you could talk to the class or even do an assembly. One volcanologist parent at my son’s school did a legendary presentation including exploding volcanoes.

Join the PTA Fostering closer home-school links, the PTA usually organise the school’s fundraising projects, from fetes to family quiz nights. Run by committee, they may include ‘class reps’ who pass on information from other parents in the class.

School Governors Comprising parent governors and other community members, this group of elected volunteers helps to make management decisions, such as running buildings and budgets, supporting staff and setting discipline standards.

It can be time-consuming, particularly if the school’s results are getting worse or it’s going through a big change like appointing a new head teacher, or joining with another school.

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Here are a few tips for successful communication:

Parent Council member Some schools have a Parent council, where parents meet to share ideas that are fed back to the school governors. This is great if you’re too busy to commit to PTA or Governors, but want to have an input.

For tips on Back to School like how to settle a child at nursery or healthy packed lunches etc go to www.familiesonline.co.uk September/October 2014

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Families Dorset Magazine

Education

Can extra tuition help?

Paying for extra tuition has become very popular over the last few years. According to a poll last year by the Sutton Trust, nearly one in four 11-16 year olds at state schools in England and Wales said that their parents had paid for them to have extra help with their lessons.

So should you hire a tutor? If you don’t, will they be at a disadvantage when it comes to tests like the 11+ or Common Entrance exam, if everyone else seems to be sending their children for extra lessons?

Why get a tutor?

With stress on getting good grades now starting at KS1 and 2 with SATs children are expected to achieve from a very young age.

Schools may be unable to provide the one-toone support, which can provide valuable help in some instances.

If a child is struggling with a subject area, or missing knowledge that is holding them back (e.g. after time off school), then a tutor is a great idea. If your child has additional needs, like dyslexia or ADHD, a tutor can provide valuable targeted support (if they have a statement, your child may be entitled to oneto-one support in school).

Perhaps your child is having trouble getting the C-grade in Maths/English GCSE that they

need for further education. Maybe they want to study a subject not offered at their school.

Interview preparation for University is also a popular reason to hire a tutor, particularly for Oxbridge interviews.

Study centres and tuition agencies will ensure that their staff are safety checked and appropriately qualified, with some agencies only employing graduates in key subject areas.

However, if their problem is lack of motivation, then a tutor might not be the best idea – if they don’t want to work, you’re just wasting your money! Tutoring very young children can also be a problem – they can be so tired after a full school day and adding tutoring on top can wipe them out completely. There’s a lot of pressure on high achievers too - if they are doing well at school, why add needless stress?

How much will it cost?

According to the good schools guide, an hour’s tuition can cost parents anything from £30 to well beyond. If this is beyond your budget, you could team up with friends for group tuition. Study centres may be more affordable - children learn in small groups, and they often accept childcare vouchers toward payment. For example, Explore Learning centres cost between £98-£119 per month for 2 sessions a week, with reduced fees for siblings.

When is it best to get help?

It’s best to start sooner rather than later. For example, if you’re hiring someone to help after the GCSE mocks in February there’s a limited amount they can achieve - if you think tuition will benefit your child, start from September of Year 11 onwards.

How to find a good tutor If you can get someone who is personally recommended, then obviously that is the best option. Make sure you check their references and DBS checks, and interview them before you hire them. It sounds obvious, but they need to get along with your child, as well as looking good on paper.

Help for Free Your child’s school may already offer older revision classes. There are excellent online resources to support at home learning – for example the BBC bitesize website has games and revision subjects up to GCSE level.

Useful websites and local tutors www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk/tutors www.suttontrust.com www.explorelearning.co.uk www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize

Maths & English tuition centre For 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities t Courses mapped to the National Curriculum. t Adapts to the individual needs of your child. t Convenient for families - Open 7 days a week. t Award-winning tuition - voted Education Investor Supplementary Education Provider of the Year.

“Explore Learning members’ improvement in maths was 30% higher than that of the comparison group after controlling for gender, age, year group and special educational needs.”

Independent Efficacy Study by the Institute of Education at Reading University (2013). See www.explorelearning.co.uk/efficacy.

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Families Dorset Magazine

ed’s reading room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Autumn book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools. www.edontheweb.com

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS Dixie O’Day and the Great Diamond Robbery

by Shirley Hughes & Clara Vulliamy (Bodley Head £9.99) ED SAYS: ‘Dixie and Percy book in for a luxurious holiday at the Hotel Splendide. Soon they see a Very Important Person, a pop star, drawing up outside in a limousine. Dixie isn’t impressed but Percy has been a fan of hers for years. When the VIP’s jewels are stolen they find themselves caught up in some frightening but exciting detective work. They were hoping for some holiday treats but they weren’t expecting quite such an adventure in Brightsea!

‘This is a beautifully written and illustrated book. Join in the friendship and fun with these delightful characters in this new series.’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Hubble Bubble: The Pesky Pirate Prank!

by Tracey Corderoy & Joe Berger (Nosy Crow £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Pandora comes

Boyface and the Quantum Chromatic Disruption Machine

by James Campbell (Hodder £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Boyface dreams

‘Here are three sparkling stories written and illustrated with a fantastic mixture of magic and excitement. Children can enjoy them reading on their own or reading together.’

‘Boyface is a fantastic character created by this original storyteller. The book is brilliantly illustrated – and is a real page-turner!’

from a family of witches – and the wackiest of them all is her Granny. When Granny waves her wand there is not usually just magic but also mayhem! Whether at school, at home or even at her uncle’s wedding, Pandora loves it when Granny is around performing magic but very often she is the one who has to make sure everything turns out well.

of following in his father’s footsteps as a stripemonger – someone who buys and sells stripes, and removes and adheres them to other things.

But he is not allowed to enter The Shop until he is 10 and on the very day he reaches that age he has quite a challenge to overcome. What will happen when he finally reaches for the Quantum Chromatic Disruption Machine? And how will he deal with a suitcase of irritable tigers?

WIN a family meal worth £100 at Giraffe Families Dorset has teamed up with family-friendly restaurant group, giraffe, to offer one lucky family the chance to win a meal worth £100 to celebrate the opening of their brand new site in Tower Park, Poole!

Take a culinary global tour and discover a world of flavours at giraffe. From its delicious Daybreaker Omelette, ‘Firecracker’ Chicken Tenders served with Asian Slaw and Wasabi Aioli, Global Mezze and Mexican Chicken Burger to Key Lime Pie with Tangy Marmalade – there is something for everyone, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner. Little ones are just as important as grown-ups at giraffe and have their own menu of minimains, desserts and drinks, complete with puzzles and games to keep them entertained. So, whether you’re treating the kids to lunch before your weekly shop, settling in for a leisurely family breakfast, enjoying a welcome coffee break or grabbing a mid-week cocktail with friends, giraffe is the ideal destination.

Giraffe, Poole opens mid-September on Yarrow Road, Mannings Heath, Poole.

To be in with a chance of winning this tasty prize visit our website www.familiesdorset.co.uk/competitions. Terms & Conditions Apply, please see our website for full details. Family meal voucher to the value of £100 per prize.

Deadline for entries is 30th September 2014.

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Rendezvous in Russia

by Lauren St John (Orion £6.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Laura and her best

friend Tariq are fascinated by a film being made in their village in Cornwall. When Laura’s husky Skye saves an actress’s life, the two friends and Skye are invited to join the film crew in St Petersburg. The movie is about an art theft from The Hermitage that surely couldn’t really happen – could it? Laura has to use all her skills as an ace detective to counteract the criminals and stop them having their evil way.

‘This action-packed adventure can be enjoyed by boys and girls alike. The gripping story is full of energy and will have you on the edge of your seat.’

WIN a children’s back pack from Lands End This September send your kids back to school in style with the Lands’ End kidswear collection that includes durable outerwear and footwear in a range of colours and designs as well as fun back packs and lunchboxes that they’ll love! Visit www.landsend.co.uk to view the entire collection.

As an exclusive for Families readers Lands’ End are giving away a kids’ backpack worth £50!

To be in with a chance to win simply enter on our website www.familiesdorset.co.uk by 30th September 2014.

Only one entry per household will be accepted.

No cash alternative is available. For full terms and conditions see our website.

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Families Dorset Magazine

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Getting organised With all the things we have to juggle as parents, it’s no surprise if every now and then we feel like we are losing control. Here are some ideas to help keep on top of things to make life run that little bit smoother and lessen the stress.

Creating a timetable Create a simple weekly or fortnightly time table showing your family commitments i.e after school clubs, homework or spelling days, food shop days, housework etc. Hang it somewhere you can see it and amend when necessary - just creating a timetable in itself and seeing an overview of your week can go a long way to helping you feel more organised with your time.

Give your children a checklist of age appropriate chores – there is advice online about what children should be able to help out with at what ages, but even a two or three your old could be helping put toys away, stacking books, putting their clothes in the hamper or dusting the skirting’s. If you find yourself feeling guilty about having them do housework, remember that you are teaching them important life skills and the earlier the better.

Scheduling Schedule in a convenient time each week or fortnight to do the things that catch you out or have a tendency to build up and become overwhelming. For example, rather than letting your car get to the red before you fill it up each time, fill the tank and then pick a time every week that you refill – This way you won’t get caught out paying more than usual at that middle of nowhere station and it will also help you keep track of exactly how much you are spending on fuel each week.

Other good things to schedule in could be fortnightly trips to the bottle bank or charity shop for getting rid of outgrown clothes or toys. Set a regular time to do ironing so that it doesn’t build up into a scary looking mountain. Keeping on top of the smaller things in life will help you feel more in control generally.

Playtime Schedule in some time each day or week depending on your commitments to spend time playing with your children – whether it is outdoor games, a board game, drawing or a simple game of catch – giving them your undivided attention (phone/computer/TV turned off!) for a set and regular period of time will enable them to get on and play with each other or by themselves a lot better at the times when you can’t.

Bulk cooking There’s nothing worse than coming home from a busy day to find you need to rush out to the shop to buy dinner! Once a week try to bulk cook a big bolognese, vegetable stew (or whatever your family favourite is!) so that you have enough to pop a second lot in the

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freezer for emergency dinners. Search ‘One-Pot recipes’ online to find lots of dishes that are ideal for doubling up in a big pot.

Frozen fruit & vegetables These can save the day when you reach the vegetable draw and find it empty or even worse, growing new life forms! You can pretty much get frozen anything these days, but things like frozen diced onion are especially great for chucking into stews or stir fries and saves time (and tears!) on pealing and chopping. Frozen fruit is perfect for quickly defrosting and mixing with yogurt, custard or ice cream for pudding, or blitz in a blender with a banana or milk to make a quick and healthy smoothie.

Mealtimes Getting into the habit of packing lunch boxes the night before at the same time you are doing dinner can make mornings a much less stressful experience and saves time on washing up and preparation. Creating a weekly menu plan can help make sure you don’t run out of food or walk out of the super market with bags of shopping but seemingly nothing to cook!

Get everyone involved in the planning with a list of favourite meals.

Depending on how big your family is, a week of shopping in one go can be an exhausting experience – could you schedule in two smaller shops a week and take on 3 or 4 days at a time? This could also help avoid wastage from food going off.

Clothes Labelling children’s clothes can seem like a laborious task, but can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Pen can easily wash off or fades over time. Labels4kids do an amazing range of personalised labels for every type of scenario – stick on, iron on, sew on, click on, dishwasher and microwave-proof.. If you have bought new shoes, trousers or socks for your children, get them to wear them around the house for a few days before heading off to school in them so you can avoid any morning tears or arguments when you are pushed for time.

School Find 10 minutes each day after school to have your child go through their school bag with you so you can see if anything needs your attention and that it is also packed and ready for the next day – this is a good habit for your child to get into. If something needs your attention, do it straight away if possible and send it back to school the next day – if www.familiesdorset.co.uk

you don’t you may forget, plus seeing it every day on the side will only make you feel anxious.

The ‘To Do’ book With such hectic schedules sometimes it feels like we constantly have a hundred and one things going round in our minds, especially when we are trying to sleep!

Keeping a small note book in your bag during the day and then next your bed at night can help get these out of your head and onto paper when you can see it. Knowing that you no longer have to try to remember it all can make life a lot less stressful and sleep come easier.

Clutter Take note of where the clutter accumulates in your house and then try to work out why.

Could you solve the problem with a basket at the bottom of the stairs, height appropriate hooks for your children in the hall, a shoe rack, a storage box or an accessible cupboard? If you are planning a big declutter, rather than looking at the house as one huge messy job, take on just one draw or cupboard each day.

Housework Like clutter, housework can seem like a huge and thankless task when you have an army of small people set on making things dirty again! Rather than taking the whole house on at a time, break cleaning up into daily tasks i.e dusting on Monday, vacuuming on Tuesday, bathroom/toilet on Wednesday, kitchen on Thursday etc. You will find that actually each job takes only a small amount of time each day and because you are doing it regularly, the house doesn’t become overwhelmingly dirty all in one go.

The emergency bag Getting caught out without something is frustrating, especially as it can end up costing you money. Keep a small bag of essentials which you can easily transfer between handbags or keep in the boot of your car. Some things you might find useful to have are a small sealed bottle of water, an emergency £10 note, a few plasters, nail scissors, a sachet of Calpol, a pair of socks, a few tissues or pack of wet wipes, spare phone charger lead, a snack bar, a pen or pencil and piece of paper etc.

Families Dorset Magazine

Clubs & Classes

Why it’s important for children to do after school activities...

By Susan Tomlinson

Whether or not you reckon you might be raising the next Picasso or David Beckham, there’s no doubting the pluses for after school clubs.

From ballet to basketball and art to archery, there’s an after school activity out there for every child. And the best thing about them is they’re brilliant for all sorts of reasons – not just learning a new skill.

For a start, after school clubs give kids the chance to let off steam outside of the classroom. When you consider that in many countries around the world, kids don’t even start school until 6 or 7 years old, a full day in the classroom for youngsters can be a big ask. That’s why an alternative to the three R’s can be hugely rewarding.

As clinical psychologist Dr Julie Fraser, puts it: “It’s an opportunity for kids to explore different talents. Not everyone is brilliant at academic subjects and it’s a chance for your kids to shine outside of the classroom.”

She adds: “Learning a new skill can also affect what happens in school – kids feel more confident and able to try new tasks.”

Certainly all the research shows this to be the case. Every leading study into extra curricular activities demonstrates that

academic grades actually improve when kids participate in outside school clubs. One 2005 study from the US actually showed that kids who attended clubs performed much better in maths and verbal reasoning tests than kids who didn’t.

But kids clubs are not only great for improving academic levels but for developing important life skills too.

“It’s brilliant for developing social skills, dealing with new environments, talking to different adults and mixing with different children,” says Dr Fraser. “But best of all, after school clubs are confidence building.”

Team sports like football, rugby, and netball are not only brilliant for keeping kids active but also helping them learn team work where they can begin to appreciate what’s good for the whole team, rather than just thinking of themselves. Competitive sports are also great for learning difficult life lessons like

being a gracious winner - and loser. But for team building clubs with a less competitive edge, you could consider Woodcraft Folk, Brownies and Scouts.

Learning a musical instrument is great for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence. Drama clubs are great for shy kids who learn to find their voice singing and acting alongside others, while ballet and dance is great for kids to learn discipline and self-expression.

The list is endless. There are clubs for almost anything you can imagine. Archery, chess, horse riding, computer clubs, film making and even circus skills are all proving popular alongside the more traditional arts and crafts, swimming, tennis and kung fu.

There are clubs for nature lovers run by the Woodland Trust, BMX biking for tots, and even kids yoga and tai chi.

There’s so many to choose from, it’s tempting to try them all but it’s also important not to overburden kids with too many activities.

Frantically driving from one after school club to the next seems to be missing the point. New skills, team work and confidence building aside, the most important thing to think about when deciding which club to choose is surely the fun factor.

After that, the trick is to stay involved.

“It’s important to talk with the teacher, find out how they work and show an interest in the class, “ says Dr Fraser. “That way you can be sure your child really is enjoying the club, and you will begin to watch them flourish and grow.”

Visit our hugely popular online Directory for a comprehensive listing of your local Clubs and Classes. www.familiesonline.co.uk

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Families Dorset Magazine

Local Clubs & Classes Autumn 2014 Arts & Crafts Completely Potty 0844 414 5356 www.completelypotty.org.uk Paint-your-own-pottery shop now based in Winton, come and join in the fun!!

The Creation Station 0844 873 4740 www.thecreationstation.co.uk Arts and crafts classes, sessions and events in and around Bournemouth

Dance, Drama & Film Big Little Theatre School 01202 434 499 www.biglittle.biz Centre Stage 01202 951 362 www.centrestagedance.org

Twinkle Toes Music 01202 484 672 01202 486 059 www.twinkletoesmusic.com Music & Movement group for babies, toddlers & beyond.

Showbiz Academy 07910 187564 www.showbiz-academy.co.uk Swish of the curtain 01202 418999 www.swishofthecurtain.co.uk

Tappy Toes Dorset 07557 904187 www.tappytoes.com Develop imagination, build confidence, improve coordination and inspire creativity in your youngsters.

The Stagedoor School of Dance and Drama 01202 291497 www.stagedoordance.co.uk The G Stars 07812 124244 www.thegstars.co.uk Fun after school singing and dance class for children inspired by the hit TV series, Glee.

Sport Active Soccer Bournemouth 0844 822 3934 www.activesoccer.co.uk

www.wigglewaggleworkshops.com

Pavilion Dance South West 01202 203630 www.pdsw.org.uk The National Dance Development Organisation for the South West of England.

Taekwondo Cubs & Tigers 07885 381355 www.kma-sportsacademy.com Ages 4-11 years

Prompt Corner 07757 259199 www.promptcornerdance.co.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Bournemouth: 01202 237343 Ringwood: 01202 238810 Poole: 01962 859995 New Milton: 0800 032 6650 Dorchester: 01258 474690 www.stagecoach.co.uk

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Rugby Tots 08453136718 www.rugbytots.co.uk A specifically designed play programme using the multiple skills of Rugby to create a fun and enjoyable environment whilst developing basic core motor skills.

www.individualityswimmingandfitness.co.uk

Horse riding

Sorted Surf School 01202 300668 www.sortedsurfschool.co.uk

Perform 0845 400 4000 www.perform.org.uk Drama, dance and singing workshops for 4 - 12 years.

Individuality Swimming and Fitness 07900 058395

Jo Jingles 01202 739444 Music, Singing & Movement classes for babies and pre-school age children from 3 months to 5 years of age www.jojingles.com

Kids Camera Action 01202 509089 www.kidscameraaction.co.uk

Wiggle Waggle with Leah 07795 472816 Inspiring sparkly teachers, delivering purposeful, bubbly sessions, where everyone is loved, included, getting fitter and loving music together

Sensory Baby Sensory 01722 741446 www.babysensory.com Baby Sensory provides hundreds of sensory development activities Our Baby Sensory programme has been designed specifically for babies from birth.

Little Kickers 07896009651 www.littlekickers.co.uk Football for 18 months – 7 years

Water Babies Dorset 01258 458520 www.waterbabies.co.uk

Turtle Tots 01202 802670 www.turtletots.com

Musical Steps 0845 643 5025 www.musicalsteps.co.uk

Tumble Tots 01202 870712 www.tumbletots.com

Puddle Ducks 01202 674676 www.puddleducks.com

Hartbeeps diane@hartbeeps.com www.hartbeeps.com

Dorset Storm Basketball Club 01202 870783 www.dorsetstorm.co.uk For girls and boys aged 8 years and over.

Helen O’Grady Drama Academy 01425 475577 www.helenogrady.co.uk

Swimming

To include your business in our clubs and classes listings email: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk.

Pony Palace 01202 473 506 www.pony-palace.co.uk

Languages Ole Spanish Club 01202 772030 www.olespanishschool.co.uk

Parent & Baby/Toddler Groups Cheeky Monkeys www.facebook.com/ cheekymonkeyspoundbury Cheeky Monkeys is a Friday morning (term time) mums and babies/toddlers group run from 10am-11.30am in Brownsword Hall, Poundbury. Everyone is welcome.

Dorset Dads www.facebook.com/DorsetDads Dorset Dads - a group of local Dads who all get together with their kids (0-4 years) to play, swim, cycle and whatever else we can come up with.

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Music Bus Christchurch 07887 387581 www.musicbus.com Music classes for babies and toddlers.

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www.familiesdorset.co.uk

Families Dorset Magazine

Parenting

Is Mindfulness the secret to happy parenting?

By Mette Theilmann Mindfulness is the difference between being a DOer and a BEer. As parents today, we often experience high levels of pressure and stress to make sure our children become well-rounded individuals. We pack their lives with a variety of activities and sports clubs to keep them fit, sociable and confident, encourage them to do well at school, make the right friends and painstakingly pore over every decision about their education. The daily routine of family life with all its chores and demands and our own feelings of responsibility to ensure our children are confident, independent, responsible and happy can all make for very stressed and exhausted parents. Basically what I am saying is that if we are not physically on the go, we are mentally on the go; thinking about what to do and where to be next.

It’s no wonder that 90% of parents describe themselves as frantic rather than fun. It’s no wonder that parents today have become DOers rather than BEers.

It’s not helped by the fact we’re always having to take calls, check texts and e-mails; our children quickly realise they don’t have our full attention when we’re attached to our tablet, laptop or phone! This can also create huge challenges when we try and tackle the issue of their screen time too. The effect of this “full on all the time” way of life is that we are never really in the moment or mindfully there for ourselves or our children and this can have a negative effect on us both!

For us, it can cause stress/irritability and exhaustion and we can start to react to situations in a much more negative way. We stop listening properly to our children; we are just too busy thinking about other things. We forget to enjoy the small moments with them and sadly miss out on opportunities to praise them. We then often start to feel guilty as deep down we know that this is not the parent we want to be and we can start to lose our confidence as a parent. This can encourage self-doubt in our children too as they can start to think that we don’t want to be with them. They start playing up to get our

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full attention as they know we always react when they are fighting or misbehaving. They feel that we are not listening and start not listening to us, or each other. They start mimicking our behaviour and becoming like us!! Our stress is being passed on to them. But the good news is that the key to mindfulness can be achieved by anyone, anywhere.

Mindfulness aims for you to fully focus on each moment you are with your children. Mindfulness helps you to find the balance between being a DOer and a BEer. When we do become “mindfully there”, we become a great role model for our children based on respect, care and deep love. Since we are fully aware of what they say, do and feel we really get to know our children again and re-connect with them. We feel proud of ourselves at the end of each day as we feel we are doing the right thing, even if things haven’t gone to plan! We gain energy and motivation as a parent as we start to see the same emotions and feelings manifesting themselves in our children. We will have a positive and dynamic focus on problem-solving in stressful situations and become more open-minded to positive discipline. Our children develop healthy social skills based on listening and respect for other people. They become like us (and in a good way!) and we start to have fun together again!

Awareness is the first key to mindfulness. Our daily tasks and challenges are not going to go away but when you become aware that you are not “in the moment” and are just too busy thinking about other things or multi-tasking, remind yourself why you need to focus now. Relax your body, breathe slowly and look at your children and smile. Try to think more calmly and remember that mindful parents become essentially better able to manage difficult situations and issues arising in the family and within themselves.

ParentingSuccess offers parenting workshops and one-to-one parent coaching on all family issues. To find out more go to www.parentingsuccesscoaching.com

www.familiesdorset.co.uk

Families Dorset Magazine

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Fussy eating affects 8 out of 10 UK families A recent survey on fussy eating has found that over 80% of UK parents have children who are fussy eaters. The research, commissioned by Abbott, has also shown that 69% of parents worry that their child is not getting the nutrition they need and a further 60% said their child’s fussy eating habits make them feel frustrated.

Handy packed lunch swap list

®

when you think..

Fussy eating is a widespread issue in the UK, affecting many families and parents of fussy eaters will go to extreme lengths in order to get their children to eat well. Bribing children with dessert or sweets (34%), hiding vegetables in other foods (33%) and threatening to take away treats or fun activities (21%) were some of the most common tactics used by parents.

Netali Levi, a Clinical Psychologist who works with children who are fussy eaters and their parents believes that “managing mealtimes to make them enjoyable, reducing stress (both yours and the child’s) and understanding your child’s hunger signals are all key to success”. Netali also advises “You need to find what works for you and your child but generally speaking, by involving them in the process of shopping, cooking and preparing food, gradually introducing new flavours and textures, and rewarding progress, it should be possible for you to navigate this tricky phase and get them back to healthy eating habits.”

For more advice and tips on tackling fussy eating, visit: www.fussyeaters.co.uk, where you can download a unique 12-week “back on track” eating plan, developed by Netali and a nutritionist.

The plan provides week-by-week practical guidance to support parents and children on their journey to enjoying healthy foods.

swap for

•Crisps

plain tortilla chips, olives, veg sticks + dip

•White bread

wholemeal pitta, spelt bread, wholemeal bread rolls, rice cakes, ryvita, whole wheat crackers

•Bread

cous cous, bulghar wheat, brown rice, quinoa

•Cheese strings

cubes of cheddar

•Ham

sliced beef, chicken, turkey

•Marmite

hummus, cottage cheese

•Nuts

hard boiled egg

•Orange juice

unsweetened juice diluted 50:50 with water or carrot juice

•Cereal bar

Bounce Ball/Pulsin bar/Panda liquorice bars/ Beond berry bites

•Fruit yoghurt

natural live yoghurt & fresh fruit/home made stewed fruit puree

•Chocolate

high percentage cocoa solid chocolate or dried fruit

Here is why: • • •

• • • • • • • •

Tortilla chips generally contain less salt & fat than crisps Whole grains such as bulgur wheat make a change from sandwiches & have no added ingredients Brown bread & crackers contains minerals to support healthy energy levels & fibre for an optimally functioning digestive s system Cheese is a good source of protein & additive free Chicken & beef are unprocessed unlike ham, which contains nitrates substances with a carcinogenic effect on the body Hummus contains plant protein & fibre from chickpeas & good oils (choose brands with lowest salt content & rapeseed or olive oil) Eggs are protein packed & low in fat, a good alternative to nuts, often banned from schools Carrot juice contains minerals and vitamin A & is lower in sugar than fruit juices, even unsweetened ones.

Cereal bars are often high in sugar. Look for 10g natural sugar or less per bar.

Natural yoghurt is sugar free & contains beneficial “friendly” bacteria for your gut whereas fruit yoghurt typically contains 5 teaspoons sugar per pot & no good bacteria Dried fruit contains fibre & darker chocolate contains flavonoids (antioxidants) & is high in magnesium.

However it’s still high in fat & sugar so small amounts.

NB: This is intended as a quick at a glance guide only, there are exceptions to the above of course, for example freshly squeezed orange juice is of course ok so is home made white bread is much better than bought

Compiled by Penny Crowther www.nutritionistlondon.co.uk

An active life is a healthy life

By Dean Horridge, CEO, Fit For Sport As a PE teacher with over 20 years’ experience it’s fair to say I’ve seen some PE trends come and go, from kids doing cross-country in the snow to Sports Day races being banned. Some things have improved over time but sadly there’s still a school of thought that believes asking children to compete is wrong. Indeed, a survey of 8-16 year olds by Marylebone Cricket Club and Chance to Shine suggested the majority of children would be happy to see the competitive element removed from school sport.

However, we want to see children succeed in sport, even representing our country at international levels, and unfortunately you can’t have it both ways. Elite athletes need to learn how to compete, what it feels like to win and, more importantly, what it feels like to lose. Children need to be encouraged to push further to realise their potential. And there’s no harm in doing that, provided the goals are realistic, the child is engaged and the support structure is in place to catch them when they fall.

The key to this is engaging kids in the benefits of physical activity at a much earlier age. Fit For Sport did just that as part of our ‘Engage to Compete’ primary schools programme with Sport England last year, and the answers were revealing.

After taking part in our fun pilot, we asked children aged 4-11 how competition made them feel. The responses were overwhelmingly positive with the vast majority stating that competition made them feel happy, excited and confident as opposed to nervous, afraid or worried. When we asked them outright if they liked taking part in

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Fit For Sport

competitions, 86% said yes. That’s 86% of children who like taking part in competitions, once they are engaged in physical activity at a younger age.

And it’s not just about being active in school, it’s about being an active family. Children learn so many of their traits from their parents, why should physical activity be any different? Parents have just as much responsibility, if not more, than schools to ensure their kids are eating right, learning to live a healthy lifestyle and engaging in fun activity as a family unit.

After all, an active family will lead to a healthy family and surely that is something to strive for in life.

For more information go to www.fitforsport.co.uk

www.familiesdorset.co.uk

Families Dorset Magazine

Out & About

We aim to be as accurate as possible but the listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check details and prices.

What’s On in Dorset this September & October Throughout September Percy the Park Keeper Trail Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk A fun family self-led trail based on the popular Percy the Park Keeper story books.

Embark on a great adventure, discover some of Percy’s animal friends and find out how he looks after the park.

10am – 3.30pm. All ages.

21 September Little Pickles Market Ashdown Leisure Centre, Asatral Road, Canford Heath, Poole, Dorset, BH17 8RE 01225 434227 www.littlepicklesmarkets.co.uk 10:00 -11.30 A family market with nearly new baby/children’s items. Come and see what bargains you can find! £1 entry per adult, children free and free.

20 September Childrens Cross Country Mountain Biking Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk Explore the tracks and trails through the Park and Forest whilst learning new skills and improving techniques and confidence.

10:00am to 12:00pm 8 to 14 years

21 September Chris & Pui’s Roadshow Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre www.bic.co.uk 0844 576 3000 See Chris and Pui from Show Me Show Me live on stage! CBeebies’ favourite double act is bringing songs, rhymes, comedy sketches and lots of joining in for all the family.

To 28 September Octonauts Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park & Tower Lodmoor Country Park, DT4 7SX www.sealifeweymouth.com Dive into an Octonauts mission!

Join Captain Barnacles, Kwazii, and Peso in their discovery of real live sea creatures and enjoy a host of Octonautical activities; including an all new quiz trail, fresh activity books, stickers, photo opportunities and much more.

20 – 21 September Paddington Bear Swanage Railway Station House, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1HB 01929 425800 www.swanagerailway.co.uk Paddington Bear will be making personal appearances at intervals on each day 21 September Big Baby & Children’s Market The Barrington Centre, Penny’s Walk, Ferndown, BH22 9TH www.cheekimonkeys.co.uk 10:30 – 13:30 Buy or sell quality, gently used babies’ and children’s toys, clothes and equipment.

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26 September Macmillan Coffee Morning Farmer Palmers www.farmerpalmers.co.uk Join us for a free coffee and slice of sponge cake between 9.45am - 11.00am to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

26 September – 12 October Bournemouth Arts by the Sea Festival Various locations around Bournemouth www.artsbournemouth.org.uk The festival is a rich mix of some of the best regional, national and international arts across dance, film, theatre, performance, visual arts, spoken word, literature and music with many events aimed at children and families.

27 September Sooty & Friends Magic Show Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre, Westover Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

A morning show full of fun and variety not to be missed.

A delight for young and old alike as Sooty enters his 66th year so even grandparents will remember this little rascal.

27 September The Story Giant Lighthouse, Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk 0844 406 8666 Not for the faint hearted, Shanty Theatre Company in association with Brian Patten and supported

by Bristol Old Vic Ferment, bring you a timeless story, straight from the windswept landscape of Dartmoor.

Age Guidance 7+ years.

28 September Bournemouth Baby Fair The Moordown Hall, Priory View Road, Moordown, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH22 9QP Baby sale second hand and new clothes. Nursery Furniture, Baby massage Swimming Coaches, Tiny Tots, Tidies Face painting, Photographer, Dance Teachers and lots more.....

28 September One In A Blue Moon Pavilion Dance South West Westover Road, Bournemouth BH1 2BU www.pdsw.org.uk It’s the Moon’s birthday and he is having a party! We are all invited, but how do we get there? Join us as we journey to the Moon through strange and distant lands, meet some curious characters along the way and help make a birthday card for the Moon in our foyer.

11.30am & 3pm £5 (babes in arms free) 28 September The Wessex Heavy Horse Society Annual Show and Country Fayre Gillingham and Shaftesbury Showground www.whhs.org.uk Classes for In Hand, Harness, Turnout and Ladies Cart. Arena displays, wagon rides, children’s activities, Pudding Competition plus much more.

5 October ‘The Big Draw’ on foot Studland Beach www.nationaltrust.org.uk Children and adults can enjoy walking, drawing, geocaching and even charcoal making!

www.familiesdorset.co.uk

4 -5 October Bournemouth Marathon Festival Bournemouth Seafront www.run-bmf.com The Bournemouth marathon festival brings many distances together in one unique festival of running. There are junior races for ages 6-12 years.

5 October Grandparents Day Farmer Palmers www.farmerpalmers.co.uk FREE grandparent entry with every full paying child (see website for further details).

11 October Pop! Lighthouse, Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk 0844 406 8666 With his faithful teddy bear, deckchair and fantastic basket of tricks, Christian Lee is all set for a lovely day at the seaside…until the day takes a turn and things don’t quite work out as planned.

Join our hapless hero and be astounded in this totally wordfree clown and magic show that follows his exciting adventures at sea. Perfect for children aged 3 - 8 and their families.

11 October Table Top Treasure Kinson Community Centre, Milhams Road, Pelhams Park, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH10 7LH www.tabletoptreasure.co.uk 3pm – 4.30pm Our baby and children sales are the perfect way for you to buy and sell your little treasures preloved items.

11 October NCT Nearly New Sale Saint John’s Church, Macaulay Road, Broadstone, Nr Poole, Dorset, BH18 8AR Affordable essentials and accessories for you and your family.

To include your event in our What's On guide, send your event details to: editor@familiesdorset.co.uk Families Dorset Magazine

12 October Family Fungi Foray Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk A fun interactive walk aimed at beginners, full of fantastic fungi facts.

10:30am to 12:00pm All ages, children must be accompanied 15 - 16 October Peppa Pig’s Big Splash Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre www.bic.co.uk 0844 576 3000 Come and join Peppa and her friends for another all-singing, all-dancing adventure full of songs, games and muddy puddles!

15 - 16 October Private Peaceful

By Michael Morpurgo Lighthouse, Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk 0844 406 8666 Winner of the Blue Peter Book of the Year, Private Peaceful is by former Children’s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo, awardwinning author of War Horse.

Suitable for ages 8+ 15 October – 2 November The Enchanted Floodlit Garden Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens Buller’s Way, Abbotsbury, Nr Weymouth DT3 4LA www.abbotsbury-tourism.co.uk Floodlighting of the Subtropical Garden.

Dusk until 8:30pm 18 October Table Top Treasure The Annunciation Church Hall, Charminster Road, Charminster, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 9RW 3.30pm – 5pm www.tabletoptreasure.co.uk Our baby and children sales are the perfect way for you to buy and sell your little treasures preloved items.

19 October Dogs Don’t Do Ballet

by Ballet Black Pavilion Dance South West Westover Road, Bournemouth BH1 2BU www.pdsw.org.uk Join Ballet Black for their first family ballet, based on the bestselling book by Anna Kemp.

3.00pm £5 (babes in arms free)

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September/October 2014

25 October Forage Festival at RSPB Arne Nature Reserve RSPB Arne Nature Reserve, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5BJ www.rspb.org.uk A fun packed day for all the family! Now in its 5th year, the Arne Forage festival is a collection of local traders, local food producers and craft stalls including hands on bush craft with the Ancient Technology Centre, knife skills courses, forage walks and hands on crafts! 11-4pm.

25 October – 2 November Children’s Red Squirrels Walks Brownsea Island www.nationaltrust.org.uk Spot red squirrels, learn how they bury their food and see if you can remember where you put your secret supply of chestnuts on this guided woodland walk.

26 October Family Circus Fun Day Lighthouse, Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk 0844 406 8666. 11am - 4pm 26 October Moomin Midsummer Madness (2008) Cert U Pavilion Dance South West Westover Road, Bournemouth BH1 2BU www.pdsw.org.uk First ever Moomin stage production.

Part of PDSW’s new Cinema for Families programme.

11.30am Tickets are £4 each or 3 for £9 28 October Family Surfing Taster Highcliffe Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk Instructor-led sessions, perfect for trying to ride some waves.

10:00am to 12:00pm Aged 8 and over, all children accompanied by an adult 28 October Family Kayaking Course – Christchurch Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk Instructor-led courses, perfect for learning to paddle.

10:00am to 12:00pm Aged 8 and over, all children accompanied by an adult.

28 - 29 October Dare to Sea Lighthouse, Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk 0844 406 8666 A magical journey for children and adults, Dare to Sea is a Franco-British collaboration bringing together dancers, circus and visual artists.

For families with children of all ages from 4+ 28 October – 30 October Outdoor Activity Days Brownsea Island www.nationaltrust.org.uk Come and join our outdoor activity team for an action packed island adventure. Take part in instructor led activities; choose from archery, low ropes and den building.

29 October Forest Fun Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk Head out into the forest and join the Rangers for some outdoor fun.

10:30am to 2:30pm For all ages, children must be accompanied 30 October Family Surfing Course Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk Instructor-led courses, perfect for trying to ride some waves.

10:00am to 12:00pm Aged 8 and over, all children accompanied by an adult.

30 October The Falcon’s Malteser Lighthouse, Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk 0844 406 8666 Anthony Horowitz’ novel, The Falcon’s Malteser, is now a hilarious family show following the adventures of the hopelessly inept private detective Tim Diamond and his sharp witted brother Nick.

For family audiences (8+)

Dont forget to say you saw it in

1 November Fireworks Spectacular Beaulieu www.beaulieu.co.uk 01590 614614 This year, the fireworks display, one of the largest in the South, will be set to a Rock Legends theme. Have fun on the Beaulieu rides and drives and old-time fairground rides, all at good value extra charges. Enjoy live music throughout the evening, with hot food and drinks available both inside and out.

Join in with the spirit of the event by wearing fancy dress, with prizes going to the best dressed. Event admission is from 3pm.

4 – 6 November Shakespeare Schools Festival Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts, Kingland Road, Poole, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk Celebrate Shakespeare’s 450th birthday with the biggest party he has ever seen and the largest Shakespeare Schools Festival to date. Each night four schools will perform four different Shakespeare plays. Come and party with Shakespeare and celebrate the achievements of your local schools in a wonderful evening of entertainment.

5 November Free Fireworks Display Poole Quay, Poole, BH15 1HJ www.pooletourism.com This special evening brings a host of street entertainers plus live music to Poole Quay, leading up to a fantastic FREE fireworks spectacular display on the water.

Activities and entertainment from 4:30pm and fireworks at 8pm.

11-15 November Horrible Histories: Barmy Britain Lighthouse, Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk 0844 406 8666 We all want to meet people from history. The trouble is everyone is dead! So it’s time to prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage with a brand new show BARMY BRITAIN with all new amazing 3D effects!

DORSET MAGAZINE

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Families Dorset Magazine

October Half Term & Halloween Events 18 October Upton Little Treasures Halloween Special www.tabletoptreasure.co.uk Come on down to Upton Community Centre for our Halloween Special with lots of spooky fun activities for the kids and lots of great bargains to be had. Our lovely goody bags for the first forty customers, tasty treats and lovely refreshments from Kitchen cakes by Tracey.

10.30am - 12.00 25 October – 1 November Sally’s Awesome Autumnal Activities The Priest’s House Museum 23-27 High St, Wimborne Minster, Wimborne www.priest-house.co.uk Self directed craft activities.

25 October – 2 November Halloween at Corfe Castle The Square, Corfe Castle BH20 5EZ www.nationaltrust.org.uk Explore our spooktacular castle this Halloween if you dare. Find the ghosts and pumpkins on our family trail and enjoy the other hair-raising activities on offer.

25 October – 2 November Hauntings at Beaulieu www.beaulieuevents.co.uk Halloween descends on Beaulieu with plenty of themed activities to enjoy. Hear Spooky Stories from the costumed guides in Palace House, follow the Halloween Quiz Trail, take a lucky dip in the Witches Cauldron and get a Gruesome Face Painting, plus take a ride on Beaulieu’s Moan-o-Rail. All of these activities are included in a visit to the Beaulieu attraction standard entry price. Open daily from 10am – 5pm.

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25 October – 2 November Exbury Ghost Train www.exbury.co.uk Dare you ride the Exbury Ghost Train for a Halloween week ‘Phantomine’? The Exbury Ghost Train takes to the rails again for hair-raising and rib-tickling family fun. With Skeletons, scarecrows and other ghoulish characters en route, we dare you to ride and experience a Halloween week ‘Phantomine’!

The Ghost Train will enter a pitch-black tunnel and, provided it comes out the other end, will continue on its 1 ½ mile journey with interesting stories, dreadful puns and even more terrible jokes.

25 October – 2 November Half Term Trail Brownsea Island www.nationaltrust.org.uk Come along for a spooky island adventure with a mystery to solve and eerie happenings along the way!

25 October – 2 November Halloween Trail Studland Beach www.nationaltrust.org.uk Follow the clues left by the creatures of the night to claim your prize. Drop in at the Discovery Centre for some free seasonal crafts for children from Monday 27th to Friday 30th October.

25 October – 2 November Halloween Spooktacular Kingston Lacy www.nationaltrust.org.uk Join us for some scary fun over half term by following the Halloween trail, discovering spooky tales from the Kingston Lacy collection and getting creative with some scary crafts.

25 October – 2 November Halloween at Corfe Castle www.nationaltrust.org.uk Explore our spooktacular castle this Halloween if you dare. Find the ghosts and pumpkins on our family trail and enjoy the other hair-raising activities on offer.

25 October – 2 November Halloween Festival Marwell Zoo 01962 777932 www.marwell.org Get ready to be spooked! Enjoy a trip on our ghoulish ghost train, design a pumpkin for carving and watch our animals explore and eat their pumpkin treats. £18 Adults, £14 child (3-16), under 3’s free.

25 October – 2 November Spooky Spider Trail Poole Museum 4 High Street, Poole, BH15 1BW www.boroughofpoole.com Special spooky half term activity.

25 October – 2 November Half Term Halloween Fun Abbotsbury Children’s Farm Church Street, Abbotsbury, Nr Weymouth DT3 4JJ www.abbotsbury-tourism.co.uk 25 October – 2 November Halloween Spooktacular Kingston Lacy www.nationaltrust.org.uk Join us for some scary fun over half term by following the Hallowe’en trail, discovering spooky tales from the Kingston Lacy collection and getting creative with some scary crafts.

Come in fancy dress and see who can be the scariest.

www.familiesdorset.co.uk

25 October Mini BSO: Ghosts and Ghouls Lighthouse, Kingland Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1UG www.lighthousepoole.co.uk 0844 406 8666 The Mini BSO presents a concert of musical mystery, magic and mayhem. Join us and experience spooky sounds, ghostly goings on and ghoulish noises. We also catch up with Scary Bones who meets the Wacky Witches of Wareham 25 October - 1 November National Family Arts Festival with Poole libraries Enjoy a half term of Halloween and firework inspired craft, scavenger hunts and stories at libraries across Poole. Events are free but booking is required, T: 01202 262449 or email libraries@poole.gov.uk.

Sat 25 October Halloween Spooky Crafts 10-11am at Rossmore Learning and Library Centre 10.30-11am at Oakdale Library 11am-12noon at Poole Central Library Mon 27 October Scavenger Hunt 2-4pm Canford Cliffs Library See what you can find on a scavenger hunt through the woods and identify your finds with the help of a Poole Ranger.

Tue 28 October Halloween Crafts 11am-12noon, Branksome Library Firework Crafts 11:30am-12:30pm, Canford Heath Learning and Library Centre

Families Dorset Magazine

We aim to be as accurate as possible but the listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check details and prices.

Wed 29 October Halloween Crafts 10:30-11:30am, Creekmore Library Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s Dairy - for children ages 4-5 11am-12noon, Hamworthy Story and craft based on Booktrust Booktime packs for reception school children.

Fri 31 October Elmer Parade for children aged 4+ 10.30am-12noon, Broadstone Celebrate Elmer’s 25th birthday!

Join in stories, crafts and make your own patchwork elephant.

Halloween and Bonfire Crafts 3.30-4.30pm at Hamworthy Library Sat 1 Nov Fantastic Fireworks 11am-12noon at Poole Central Library 26 October Shazam! A Spooktacular Family Adventure www.weymouthpavilion.com Weymouth Pavilion Theatre, The Esplanade, Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 8ED Get ready for rib-tickling laughter and bags of audience participation as you join our intrepid explorers on the Halloween Adventure of a lifetime!

27 October Halloween Half Term Farmer Palmers www.farmerpalmers.co.uk Spooktacular low key scary fun for little ones. Pumpkin carving, face painters, fancy dress and lots of spooky events included in admission.

27 – 31 October Half Term Holiday Club Active Soccer www.activesoccer.co.uk Sir David English Sports Centre, East Way, BH8 9PZ All courses run from 8.30am - 3pm Boys and girls. Ages 4 - 12 years All abilities welcome.

Dont forget to say you saw it in

DORSET MAGAZINE

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September/October 2014

27 - 31 October Frozen Inspired Activity Week and Show Broadstone United & Reformed Church BH18 9AB www.littlevoices.org.uk Does your child love Frozen?

Does your child want to meet Elsa and Anna?

Allow them to be part of our Frozen activity week and star in our Frozen inspired Performance this is a fun, filled experience not to miss. 8.30am – 4.30pm 28 October Casper: The friendly Ghost Adventure Wonderland

30 October Junior Night Riding Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk A chance for children to have a go at night riding.

5pm – 6.30pm 8 to 14 years 30 October Creepy Crawlies and Batty Bats The Priest’s House Museum 23-27 High St, Wimborne Minster, Wimborne www.priest-house.co.uk Spooky art and craft activities for all the family.

Admission £2 10am – 4pm

www.adventurewonderland.co.uk

Casper will be appearing at intervals on Tues 28th October!

So come on down and meet the friendly ghost! Don’t forget to bring your cameras!

29 October Bat Mask Making Poole Museum 4 High Street, Poole, BH15 1BW www.boroughofpoole.com Special Halloween fun activity.

29 October Spooky Scaplen’s Scaplen’s Court 4 High Street, Poole, BH15 1BW www.boroughofpoole.com Meet the Scaplen’s Court Witch & have a go at horrible Halloween activities!

29 & 31 October Fancy dress Halloween Canoeing!

New Forrest Activities www.newforestactivities.co.uk Join our fancy dress Halloween Canoeing party this half term!

Dress in your spookiest costume and join our canoeing trip at dusk along the Beaulieu River to Bucklers Hard and riverside walk back. 6.30pm – 8pm Adult £22 | Child £17 | Family (2 Adults & 2 Children) £68

31 October Halloween Party Sovereign Shopping Centre Boscombe, BH1 4SX www.sovereignshoppingcentre. co.uk We will be hosting a FREE spooky Halloween Party for shoppers.

There will be a guess the weight of the pumpkin completion, a fancy dress competition and face painting! Prepare for a fright as the ghosts and ghouls of The Sovereign Shopping Centre will be judging the fancy dress competition!

2:00pm - 4:00pm 31 October Halloween Celebrations Bournemouth Seafront www.bournemouth.co.uk

What’s On

31 October Halloween Fun at Monkey World www.monkeyworld.org Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, Longthorns, Wareham, BH20 6HH On Friday 31st October Monkey World are offering FREE ENTRY for both adults and children who are in full Halloween fancy dress costume! As well as joining in the Halloween fun there is something for everyone to enjoy at Monkey World. Home to over 250 rescued and endangered primates, enjoy a fang-tastic day out for all the family this half term.

31 October – 1 November Monster Bask Adventure Wonderland www.adventurewonderland.co.uk

A two evening special event over and above the normal day time scary activities at the Home of Halloween when the time will be ripe for all sorts of scary and ghoulish creatures to appear under cover of darkness!

The evening includes the super spooky giant maze (by our torchlight, or bring your own!), games and competitions, a performance of our Halloween show in the theatre, a child’s meal and all that the indoor Wild Thing adventure play centre can offer. This is a great and safe alternative event for younger children to dress up and still enjoy the scary fun of Trick or Treat night with their parents.

30 October Halloween Stories Moors Valley Country Park www.moors-valley.co.uk A special Halloween story followed by the chance to make your own traditional besom broom.

10.30am to 11.30am 4 to 8 years, with help from an adult www.familiesdorset.co.uk

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08/07/2014 12:44