Families Solent East Magazine Issue 87 March/April 2020

Wi Ho n a li Se e p da y! a de ge 3 t f ail

s

or

IN THIS ISSUE

The best local Easter events & activities for families Plus...

Clubs and Classes Encouraging a reluctant reader How to motivate good behaviour...and lots more!

Issue 87 March/April 2020 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Solent East 1

Dick and Dom ---------------------------------------------Brainiac Live ---------------------------------------------Mr Tumble ---------------------------------------------Mister Maker & Rebecca Keatley ---------------------------------------------Sam & Mark ---------------------------------------------BRIT SCHOOL & STAGECOACH ---------------------------------------------ART, SCIENCE, DANCE, & CIRCUS WORKSHOPS

Fatboy Slim GROOVE ARMADA LIAM PAYNE --------------------------------------------------------------------Friendly Fires -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Special Guests) ---------------------------------------------------------------------

Sophie Ellis-Bextor Ft. Sink The Pink ---------------------------------------------------------------------

BECKY HILL

---------------------------------------------------------------------

SON ET LUMIÈRE FIREWORKS FINALE ---------------------------------------------Cirque Bijou’s High Wire Spectacular ---------------------------------------------DAZZLE & FIZZ STUDIOS ---------------------------------------------FULL MOON CINEMA ---------------------------------------------DJ YODA PRES. FILMSTOCK ---------------------------------------------SOLAR POWERED CINEMA

LEVEL 42 MAX & HARVEY ---------------------------------------------------------------------

The Selecter SARA COX ---------------------------------------------------------------------

Jo Whiley’s 90s Anthems

--------------------------------------------------------------------THE Sugarhill Gang - Furious 5 ft Grandmaster Melle Mel & Scorpio --------------------------------------------------------------------Heather Small The Sherlocks THE BIG BUILD, --------------------------------------------------------------------Adam Kay WATER SLIDES & ZIPLINES DAVID RODIGAN Reef SPACE ---------------------------------------------WITH WOODLAND TRIBE --------------------------------------------------------------------Irvine Welsh ---------------------------------------------Biig Piig SelF Esteem Georgia ---------------------------------------------SPINNEY HOLLOW --------------------------------------------------------------------Steve Davis Norman Jay MBE S CLUB PARTY CRAFT VILLAGE & Kavus Torabi --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Cuban Brothers Hortisculpture Scummy Mummies --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Jaguar Skills Dub Pistols MOSSY CROW Man Vs. Baby TheDadLab -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Wurzels Tim Burgess (DJ) BUSHCRAFT, BIVOUAC -----------------------------------------------------------& FIRE BUILDING LTJ Bukem Gengahr ---------------------------------------------INTERACTIVE & MANY THEATRE MORE! ------------------------------------Yoga, Breathwork, CALM SPACES THE FEAST COLLECTIVE Meditation, WITH LIVE FIRE DEMOS Sound Healing, ---------------------------------------------Richie Bostock, NEIL RANKIN Ayurvedic workshops, ---------------------------------------------Sleep Retreat, ALL HAIL KALE Will Williams ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------DJ BBQ FIZZ BAR FIT CAMP: WILD RUNS, ---------------------------------------------HIIT & FAMILY BOXING MOTHER EARTH’S ---------------------------------------------OPEN KITCHEN HOLISTIC TRIATHLON

FULL LINE-UP & TICKETS

CAMPBESTIVAL.NET

Support Change . Live Life . Change Lives

& SCIENCE CENTRE CHICHESTER

Monday 6th April - Sunday 19th April 10am - 4pm

JOURNEYS IN TO SPACE

EXPERIENCE WONDERS OF THE NIGHT SKY

SEARCH FOR NEW WORLDS

TOUCH A REAL METEORITE

SEE THE FUTURE OF SPACE TRAVEL

IT’S OUT OF THIS WORLD • New exciting shows every month • Great for everyone aged 6 years and above • Stunning high-definition images and videos • You’ll learn so much in our fun presentations

For full event details visit aldingbournetrust.org/events

BOOK

A GROUP VISIT

BOOK ONLINE TODAY

SOUTHDOWNS.ORG.UK OR CALL: 01243 774400

Registered charity number 1096869

Fun for all the family Support a local Charity

MIND BLOWING

FANTASTIC VALUE adults £7 children £5

ADVANCE BOOKING ADVISABLE. CHECK WEBSITE FOR OPENING TIMES. DISCOVER US AT: KINGSHAM ROAD, CHICHESTER, PO19 8AE (FREE PARKING)

SDPL009 - Quarter page advert 135mm x 90mm.indd 1

16/01/2020 16:18

Managing Editor Caroline Roope Editorial and Design Caroline Roope caroline@familiessolenteast.co.uk Tel: 02392 042 874 / 07967 597779 Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk Next issue May/June 2020 Booking deadline 6 April 2020

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News Clubs and Classes Encouraging reluctant readers Education news Chores and pocket money Motivating good behaviour Easter family fun What's On

WIN a Family Holiday at an Away Resort of your Choice*!

Just take part in Wear a Hat on 27 March to raise money for Brain Tumour Research.

Away Resorts offers family holidays at award-winning holiday parks, each superbly located and unique.

Copyright: Families Solent East 2020 Families Solent East is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Solent East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Solent East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Solent East; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

Find us on social media @FamiliesSEMag @FSEmagazine

Reach 50,000 local parents!

We distribute in Portsmouth, Chichester, Waterlooville, Havant, Petersfield, Emsworth, Fareham and Gosport, and all the areas in between.

Call 07967 597779 or email for more details: caroline@familiessolenteast.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Mill Rythe on Hayling Island offers a holiday jam-packed with activities from zorbing to an outdoor high ropes course, plus daytime and evening entertainment.

Sandy Balls in the New Forest gets you back to nature; delve into the forest with its resident alpacas, enjoy a serene spa, fantastic on-site restaurants, and an array of activities including cycling and swimming.

Tattershall Lakes in Lincolnshire is a water world away.

From fishing and pedalos to jet-skiing and a water aqua park, there’s fabulous on-site restaurants, rooftop bars, indoor/outdoor splashpads and activity programmes for all.

Whitecliff Bay on the Isle of Wight offers the perfect balance, with rolling countryside on one side and a beautiful sandy beach on the other. The park bustles with great on-site activities to keep your family busy.

To Enter: 1. Register for Wear a Hat Day 2020 at www.wearahatday.org and take part on 27 March.

2. Email your competition entry to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk with your full name and post code or enter online at bit.ly/2OytS6D by 30 April 2020.

Use the same email address, name and post code for both steps 1 and 2.

T&Cs: *Excludes Mersea Island Holiday Park and Barmouth Bay Holiday Park. Prize is for a seven-night stay for two adults and two children. Accommodation provided will be of Superior or Luxury grade at Sandy Balls, Tattershall Lakes and Whitecliff Bay, and Ambassador at Mill Rythe, subject to availability. Prize value will be dependent on location and time of year chosen. More T&Cs online.

Families Solent East 3

Local news Did you know there is a Breastfeeding Welcome Scheme in Portsmouth?

Managed by the Breastfeeding Network and funded by local Public Health, the scheme was created to provide breastfeeding mothers with a comfortable and safe environment in which to breastfeed their babies.

Venues and businesses in Portsmouth are invited to join the free scheme, with a commitment to be aware of their responsibilities to avoid discrimination of breastfeeding women under the Equality Act 2010, and to welcome babies of any age to be breastfed in any public area of their premises.

A list of all the venues and addresses is available on the Breastfeeding Network website. This is a national scheme which has proven popular with young families planning days out and weekends away in Portsmouth. With a very active social media presence, it is a recognised and highly regarded scheme.

If you're interested in joining the scheme contact sophie.kynoch@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk for more details.

Wildlife Trust teams up with local artist for marine litter sculpture With more marine plastics washing up on our shores each day, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is pleased to announce a new environmental art initiative. As part of its project Secrets of the Solent, which is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Trust is collaborating with local artist Trudi Lloyd Williams to create a sculpture from plastic marine litter.

The presence of plastics in the marine environment poses a threat to both people and wildlife. Animals can become entangled in litter or mistake it for food, and over time larger items break down into microplastics that affect smaller organisms.

The planned sculpture will help to tackle this problem by removing some of the litter from our local area, as well as encouraging viewers to consider their own plastic use. Trudi has spent over a decade raising awareness about marine plastics through her sculptures and community engagement, making her an ideal collaborator for the Trust’s work on this issue.

To ensure that the sculpture reflects the passion and creativity of our coastal residents, it will be made through a programme of community activities. Trudi has given this initiative the name Spiny Seahorses and Ripping Yarns, to evoke the amazing species found in our waters and the stories told by sailors past and present.

Over the next few months Trudi and the Trust will hold activities in coastal locations across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Marine litter will be collected through dedicated beach cleans, and catalogued using citizen science methods. Trudi will then guide the creation of the sculpture in public workshops, before the finished piece is installed at Cumberland House Natural History Museum in Portsmouth.

Invisible Goodness Wrapped Up in Fun Perform founder, Lucy Quick tells us more.

Perform classes are a bit like a pasta sauce that’s filled with hidden vegetables: kids think it’s really tasty and don’t realise that it’s full of healthy nutrition. I see our classes like this - invisible goodness wrapped up in an hour of games, role-play, dance routines and songs. The children think they’re enjoying an hour of fun but they’re also being equipped with essential confidence-building social skills.

We all want our children to be happy, feel confident enough to try new things and interact well with others. Taking part in regular drama activities encourages confident and fluent speaking, boosts reading and writing abilities, and enhances coordination and spatial awareness. Rescuing a mermaid from a pirate ship might seem like just imaginative improvisation for 6 year olds, but it's teaching problem-solving and team-work too.

Early drama, dance and singing lessons changed my life and helped shape my vision for Perform - to deliver classes with a specific focus on developing a child’s confidence and social skills - not to create just another drama school.

Try a FREE no-obligation drama class in Chichester, Fareham, Petersfield and Waterlooville. Quote SOL300420 for an introductory £40 discount when you book by 30 April.

Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book.

The Emsworth Arts Trail 2020 A Fun Family Day Out! Each year, artists from Emsworth and the surrounding area open their studios and gather in local venues to take part in the Emsworth Arts Trail. Taking place over 2 weekends – the 25/26 April and 2/3 May, this year promises to be an exciting and varied weekend to visit the picturesque harbour town.

There are 99 artists taking part in mediums including painting, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, glasswork, photography sculpture and even a blacksmith! It is sure to appeal to adults and children alike.

The majority of the venues are located within a mile of the town centre, so it is perfect for walking, cycling or scooting around, and there are plenty of cafes and places for refreshment along the way!

You can pick up a Trail Guide in Emsworth from March onwards, or go to www.emsworthartstrail.org.uk to plan your visit.

Group image below courtesy of Vince Lavender

Christine Taylor, Natural History Curator at Portsmouth Museums, said: “We are really delighted to host the marine litter sculpture. The sea is on the doorstep of the museum and we hope visitors will make the very visual connection between the sculpture in front of them and where the plastics and other marine litter materials to create it have come from.”

Spiny Seahorses and Ripping Yarns forms part of Secrets of the Solent, a four-year project supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. More information can be found at www.hiwwt.org.uk/SecretsoftheSolent Trudi Lloyd Williams courtesy of HIWWT 4 F amilies Solent East

familiesonline.co.uk

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-12s

Clubs and Classes

Perform is a unique children’s drama school with a special emphasis on child development.

Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: confidence, communication, coordination and concentration.

The curriculum ensures plenty of fun using a mix of energetic games, catchy songs and funky dances. All class materials are written by Perform, with apps, music downloads and videos, keeping the magic of the classes alive at home.

Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Visit www. perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class today or contact: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk. Quote SOL300420 for an introductory £40 discount when you book by 30 April.

Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child's true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention.

Venues: Chichester: St Michael's Church Hall, Summersdale Road, PO19 6PN. Mondays 4 - 5pm (4-7 year olds), 5 - 6pm (7 - 12 year olds) Petersfield: Salvation Army Hall, Swan Street, GU32 3AD. Mondays 4-5pm (4-7 year olds), 5-6pm (4-7 year olds) Fareham: Titchfield Community Centre, Mill St, PO14 4AB. Tuesdays 4-5pm / 5-6pm (4-7 year olds), 6-7pm (7-12 year olds) Waterlooville: All Saints Church Hall, Catherington Lane, PO8 0TD. Tuesdays 4-5pm (4-7 year olds), 5-6pm (4-7 year olds)

www.perform.org.uk

Award winning Rusalka teaching local babies for fifteen years!

Rusalka offers a great start in swimming tuition for your baby and toddler. They first opened their swim school in 2005 and they now operate two of their own pools, six days a week, with free adjacent on site parking. Both pools are equipped with state of the art automatic heating systems which maintain the water temperature at 31C and the air temperature at 32C at all the times.

Babies are born to love music... especially with Monkey Music!

Award-winning music classes for babies and toddlers from 3 months to 3 years in Chichester, Petersfield and Havant!

Classes are fun, engaging, sensory, interactive and designed to meet your child’s developmental needs. From 3 months, babies attend Rock'n'Roll which has an emphasis on bonding through gentle movement, singing, and relaxing songs. From 12 months, children join Heigh-Ho with more up-tempo music and encouragement to play their own instruments.

Pre-schoolers from 2 years of age will be excited about our Jiggety-Jig classes, which supports their sense of rhythm, confidence in music playing and concentration.

Numerous studies have shown the benefit of music on children’s social, emotional and cognitive development, however Monkey Music doesn't just benefit your children it allows you to meet and make new friends in your local community whilst sharing precious time together!

Book a free trial today by visiting our website www.monkeymusic. co.uk/area/chichesterpetersfield-havant or calling us on 01243 459425.

In the past fifteen years they have taught thousands of babies and children to swim, picking up several national awards along the way, including Best UK Swimming Teacher and ASA Centre of Excellence status. Rusalka takes babies from 3 months old and there are never more than 5 children in a class at any one time. Children can achieve various ASA level Duckling badges and certificates as they progress.

Find out more by calling Rusalka on 02392 594449 or visiting the website at www.rusalkaswim.com. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Solent East 5

New eBooks Encourage Children to Eat Vegetables Parents of fussy eaters can now access new FREE resources courtesy of the ‘See & Eat’ project, an initiative supported by the British Nutrition Foundation, to support parents in persuading their children to eat more vegetables.

Encouraging Reluctant Readers by Tom Palmer Children must read. It’s good for them!

Unfortunately, that’s the last thing a child who doesn’t like reading wants to hear.

They might think reading is boring. They might have low confidence. They might even have an unidentified issue like dyslexia. Being told that reading is good for them just makes them feel worse.

My mum knew I hated reading. The more pressure she applied the more stubborn I was about it. I reacted to the pressure by defining myself as a non-reader and once I’d told myself that, I became even more entrenched. Then my mum changed tack. She did some things which made me want to read and to eventually call myself a reader.

Forget that loving reading is good for children. Make reading relate to something they already love.

Make a list of the things your child is passionate about. Do it now. Write down the five experiences, television shows, sports, interests that enthuse them.

These are the things that are probably going to get your child into reading. For me it was football…and then football…

Start with their favourite television show.

Television is seen as one of the enemies of reading. But it’s so good now, it’s sometimes hard to tear yourself away.

It’s helpful then that a lot of shows have books linked to them. Search for an official book or biography of one of the main characters on the show’s website.

Is there spin-off fiction? An annual? If enough people watch a show – say, like Strictly – then there’ll be a book.

Teachers and school librarians often know more about what a child might like to read than a parent. Talk to your child’s teacher or school librarian. They also know what books have worked for other children in the past.

They’re experts.

Have a day out.

Football. Cinema.

Theme park. Zoo. Whatever you do, there will usually 6 F amilies Solent East

be books available. Gift shops at the end of museums or theme parks often have books or guides. Theatres and sports venues have programmes. For me, it was Leeds United match day magazines, but I accept they’re not to everyone’s taste!

Who does your child admire? A dancer?

A singer? A sports person? Has that person written a book? There are more and more celebrities writing books. As a non-celebrity author I hate it, but, as a parent of an impressionable child, it’s great for you. Look the celeb’s name up on Amazon and see what’s out there. If you don’t want to buy it, then head to the library.

Resources include 24 new eBooks which can be downloaded from the ‘See & Eat’ website. These have been developed based on past research which has shown that showing hard-copy picture books about vegetables to children helps to familiarise them with new food and ultimately, helps them to eat a wider variety.

The ‘See & Eat’ eBooks each tell the farm to fork journey of a different vegetable and can be personalised with pictures, videos and text.

To access eBooks, visit www.foodunfolded.com/seeandeat

Role models are not just famous people.

Does your child have a coach, teacher, aunt or neighbour that they admire? For me it was my sister’s boyfriend: he gave me books. I read them because they were from him. Get your child’s role model to talk to them about books and recommend titles. A book from someone you look up to is more likely to get read.

You are your child’s number one role model. Let them see you reading what YOU want to read!

Don’t worry if your child doesn’t finish every book. I finish less than half the books I read. Borrow from the library and then your child can experiment without it costing money.

Sleep Lessons for School Children

Books are not always best. Does your child have a favourite magazine? There are hundreds of magazines for kids available from supermarkets and high street newsagents. They cost a bit and there are far less words in them, but they’re a great way to get children reading. They’re colourful. They’re silly. They’re exciting.

According to the British Medical Journal, there is increasing evidence emerging that lack of sleep has a major impact on children’s mental and physical health, as well as learning. A recent study by the BMJ suggests sleep has a greater impact on an adolescent’s mental wellbeing than bullying, physical activity and screen time.

Get a magazine delivered. The idea of a magazine arriving for your child (and your child alone) can be exciting for them. I had Match magazine delivered when I was a kid. I couldn’t wait for Thursdays as a result.

The sleep lessons are aimed at children ages 7 to 16 years and focus on giving children strategies for falling asleep and raising awareness of how sleep needs change in adolescence.

Tom Palmer won the Ruth Rendell Award 2019 for his outstanding contribution to raising children’s literacy levels in the UK. He is the author of 45 books for children; yet he only became a reader at age 17, thanks to his mum and what she did to engage him with reading. For more information, visit www.tompalmer.co.uk

Experts say the increase in sleep problems is down to a combination of higher obesity levels, excessive use of social media before bedtime and a mental health crisis among young people

School children across Britain may be offered sleep lessons to help tackle the problem of insomnia in young people.

More info: www.pshe-association.org.uk www.thechildrenssleepcharity.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Education and Early Years Maintained Schools Outperform Academies and Free Schools Maintained schools in England outperform academies and free schools in national exams taken at the end of year 6, according to figures released by the Department of Education (DfE).

This data seemingly contradicts assurances given by government for several years that conversion of schools from council-maintained to academies and the opening of free schools would drive up education standards.

The DfE reports says 66% of pupils in local authoritymaintained schools reached the government’s expected standards in both maths and reading, whilst 65% did so in academies and free schools. In sponsored academies, only 58% of pupils reached the required national standards.

Free schools also compared poorly with maintained schools, with 62% of pupils reaching the expected standards. In maths alone, 77% of free school pupils reached the expected standard, compared with 80% in maintained primaries.

More info: www.gov.uk/government

A nursery for 2½-4 year olds housed in a brand new, purpose built eco-style building blends perfectly into the woodland landscape.

The nursery offers high quality provision where outdoor play and adventure combines with our beautiful setting in the South Downs.

Come and visit!

Book a personal tour

Ditcham Park School, Ditcham Park, Petersfield, Hampshire GU31 5RN admissions@ditchampark.com | 01730 825659 | ditchamdragonflies.com

Ditcham Dragonflies is no ordinary nursery

First Steps At The Portsmouth Grammar Junior School, our Early Years classrooms provide stimulating, caring and vibrant environments where children from two and a half to five years of age learn important personal, emotional and social skills such as working together, cooperation and independence. Children in our Early Years department feel happy, secure and valued and gain a wealth of learning experiences through carefully planned play opportunities, combining a mixture of adult led and child initiated learning.

Children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum which supports them in building strong foundations in mathematics, reading, writing, science, design technology, art and humanities.

Transition across the key stage is seamless and children in the Pre-School become familiar with the teachers and the Reception classes through carefully planned collaboration initiatives throughout the year.

See www.pgs.org.uk for details of forthcoming open events. familiesonline.co.uk

Nestled within Ditcham Park School’s 16 acres is a purposebuilt nursery, Ditcham Dragonflies, staffed by a professional and caring team ready to welcome your child and nurture their inquisitive minds. Ditcham Dragonflies is no ordinary nursery. Our youngest children are fully integrated in our school family where every child is known and valued from the age of 2 ½ through to 16. Dragonflies are taught music, PE and drama by specialist teachers and use the school’s facilities. Our 16 acres of beautiful grounds provide endless opportunities for outdoor play, learning and exploring and the fresh air builds healthy appetites for a freshly cooked lunch.

We accept EYE Childcare Funding for up to 15 hours free childcare per week for all sessions and we are open 42 weeks a year.

Come and visit! 01730 825659 or admissions@ditchampark.com

Participate in British Science Week British Science Week is a 10 day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths which takes place from 6 to 15 March.

The annual festival features fascinating, entertaining and engaging events and activities across the UK, designed to appeal to families with children of all ages.

Your child can also enter the annual poster competition and/or download a series of FREE easy-to-use activity packs at www.britishscienceweek.org, filled with resources and ideas to try out at home or school.

To find your local event or activity, visit www.sciencelive.net Families Solent East 7

"...it makes a lot of sense to link their pocket money to at least some of their chores to show them that money has to be ‘earned.'"

Chores and Pocket Money

By Lauren Bassett As parents, it’s important to teach children to gradually take on more responsibility and grow into adults who can take care of their own basic needs. Completing household chores can be the first step in this journey.

But how to do you encourage children who are reluctant to lend a hand? Here are some useful tips to help get your child on board.

Start Early When it comes to chores, toddlers are often very keen as they like to copy and mimic your behaviour. Take advantage of this stage whilst it lasts! Remember, any chore requires training. Do a chore with your child, then, once they are confident, encourage them to do it alone. If it's not done exactly how you would want it, praise the effort and next time show your child how to improve.

Child Friendly Equipment Household equipment suitable for young children will help encourage little ones to pitch in. Items such as child sized brooms, dust pans or watering cans will go a long way to making your child feel helpful.

Plenty of Praise Praise liberally and before they’ve finished the chore. You want to build positive momentum, especially with young children.

How Much?

Pocket money surveys are rarely consistent on a ‘going rate’ for children’s pocket money. Amounts vary significantly depending on the age of child and where you live. The government-backed independent Money Advice Service advises that the amount actually isn’t important; what matters is that children learn how to value and manage their own money. You may also be already giving your child money to spend, so you won’t be any worse off setting a regular amount and making sure they understand that they are responsible for the ‘one off’ things you have been paying for.

At What Age? This is largely a matter of personal choice. Many parents start when their child is around 4 or 5 years old. Others wait until their child is older. As a rule of thumb, if your child understands you need money to buy things, they are probably ready to start managing pocket money.

Age Appropriate Chores Not all chores are suitable for all ages and as children get older, the types of chores they can handle will inevitably change. In general, pre-schoolers can handle one or two simple one-step or two-step jobs. Older children can manage more. Keep in mind that your child can probably do more than you think. If they are mastering a complicated computer game, they can easily turn on the dishwasher!

Age 2 to 3

Pick up toys/books Choose clothes to wear Put dirty clothes in basket Put shoes away

Age 4 to 5

Be Specific

Make their bed Water flowers Feed pets Take utensils out of dishwasher and put away

You need to be very clear with your child about what you expect. Rather than say “tidy your room,” be explicit and say: “Put your toys in the toy box.”

Add Some Fun Change things up every so often, adding chores as children get older. For younger kids, add music or make chores part of a game.

Pocket Money for Chores There are differing opinions about paying children for chores. For some parents the idea of earning all your money sends a good message. Others think children should help out because they are part of the family. Some parents choose to give a regular amount of weekly pocket money but allow their children to earn extra by doing chores.

Whatever view you take, as children get older and the novelty wears off, you may find it more difficult to motivate them without a reward. As it is also a key parental responsibility to teach children the value of money, it makes a lot of sense to link their pocket money to at least some of their chores to show them that money has to be ‘earned.’

8 F amilies Solent East

Age 6 to 8

Set and clear table Keep bedroom tidy Sweep the floor Make their bed neatly

Age 9 to 10

Dust furniture Hang/fold clean clothes Put groceries away

Age 10 to 12

Vacuum carpets Wash car Fold laundry Unload dishwasher More info: www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk and www.growingkids.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Motivating Good Behaviour: What's the Secret?

By Gabrielle Nash

If you’re lucky enough to find bedtime a breeze, or have a co-operative child who eats all their vegetables, then you are indeed one of the fortunate and few. If you regularly find yourself battling bath times and lack of fruit intake and gentle (and not so gentle) admonishment of your child just doesn’t work, then it might be worth introducing a system to motivate good behaviour.

Reward-based systems like sticker charts are popular and effective tools because they’re positive.

“It’s a straightforward concept” explains Dr Sarah Rose, a child psychologist at Staffordshire University “Children learn through association, so if a behaviour is associated with something nice happening they will be more likely to repeat that behaviour in future.”

However, every child is wired differently, so it’s important you think carefully about exactly what motivates your child. Reward charts can work well, as can marbles in a jar (or pasta in a pot). The idea here is that your child earns marbles for completing a task or behaviour.

Once the jar/pot is full they earn an activity or treat.

Your child’s age is also a factor. For toddlers a reward chart during potty training is great. A simple concept like “do a wee in the potty and you can have a sticker” is easy to understand. But anything more complicated and a toddler will struggle because they don’t fully understand the idea of consequence yet.

Once you’re using a reward chart, it’s important to be reliable and consistent. Ideally, you’d like your child to simply wish to behave well without needing the chart as motivation; the best way to encourage this is to combine the reward with plenty of praise.

Top Tips for Making Reward Systems Work - Keep it specific. Pick a few areas that need work and make sure to explain to your child why they’re important. For example, if your child familiesonline.co.uk

struggles to go to bed without a fuss, try a reward chart for good behaviour at bedtime. Explain what that means for you (eg stay in bed) and why it’s important (eg if you don’t get plenty of rest, you won’t have the energy for more fun tomorrow).

- Be clear about your expectations.

For example, if your child consistently behaves badly in public, on your next outing make it clear what the boundaries are for their behaviour: “I would like you to walk nicely on the pavement with me” or “I would like you to sit and read with me while we wait at the doctors.”

- Consider what it is reasonable to ask of them. This will be dependent on age, personality and energy levels.

A tired child is considerably less cooperative.

- Praise is essential.

A child who feels good when praised, is encouraged to develop a desire to be “intrinsically” well behaved and need rewards less.

- Focus on effort, when giving praise.

Be immediate and be generous, combining your words with eye contact and a cuddle.

So what about the bad behaviour?

A child learns to repeat an action that gets the desired effect: attention from a parent. It could be that your child is behaving badly because they feel they need more of your time, so giving them plenty of attention when they are behaving well may alleviate negative behavior. The once popular options of using either a “naughty step” or a “time-out” are no longer well thought of because they are based on punishment. When used judiciously, however, what those methods can still offer, is an opportunity for both parent and child to calm down before tantrums or tempers explode.

Finally, while motivating your child to behave well is important, children do need to be able to make mistakes without negative consequence. So if your child slips up now and then, gently point this out and encourage them to try again. Remember all children learn by observation too. So model good behaviour towards them and others whenever you can.

Follow Gaby @thelondonishmum Email us at info@familiesmagazine.co.uk to receive a free, printable Colour-in Animal Reward Chart.

- Whenever discussing your child’s good behaviour, never confuse them by also introducing a criticism or caveat.

Families Solent East 9

A great day out at Aldingbourne Looking for a great day out during the Easter Holidays?

Join us at the Aldingbourne Country Centre where we will be hosting two weeks of fun packed events, with something for the whole family to enjoy.

Easter Family Fun Spies in the Sky Join the team of spies in the sky this Easter at Portsmouth’s very own lookout Tower! The iconic harbour side destination is open every day of the Easter break, offering breath-taking views across the coast. The glass floor, with a staggering 100 metre drop below, is always a hit with the kids too!

Receive your mission on arrival from the Tower’s captain, rise up in our high-speed lift, get ready for action and explore the Tower to complete your mission. Impress the team and earn your spy certificate! Make sure to collect your Spy ID souvenir photo on your way out too!

Advanced booking recommended.

Chase Meet & Greet Chase from the ever-popular Nick Jr show, PAW Patrol is coming to Emirates Spinnaker Tower! Meet your favourite police pup at intervals on Saturday 11 & 18 April. Don’t forget your camera! Pre-booking admission advised.

Eggsplore at the Weald and Downland this Easter Keep the whole family entertained this Easter with a trip to the Weald & Downland Living Museum, from egg painting and bonnet making, there will be plenty of special activities to keep you and the family entertained.

Our Country Centre is open every day (except Easter Sunday) from 9.30am to 4.30pm, with so much to enjoy on any day. Explore the woodland walk, meet our animals on the open farm, have a game of mini golf, race about on the ride on tractors, learn outside in the sand and water play area, discover the indoor soft play, get lost in the Maze and have fun in our wooden train and castle play area.

For more information visit aldingbournetrust.org/events

Easter Fun at West Dean Gardens 10 – 13 April 2020 Visit the award-winning West Dean Gardens, near Chichester, this Easter to enjoy a trail through the beautiful Gardens, abundant with spring flowers and get creative with a host of Easter craft activities.

Choose from two trails, tailored to under 5s or 6-9 year olds, both with a chocolate prize. Easter themed craft activities include making a colourful felt egg (designed by milliner Victoria Brown), egg and daffodil decorations made from recycled materials, a collaborative Easter mural and outdoor easels. Plus have a go at flower pot bean bag toss, an egg and spoon race and challenge friends and family to a game of giant noughts and crosses.

The Gardens Restaurant offers breakfasts (from 9am at weekends/Bank Holidays), hot and cold lunches, afternoon teas and children’s meals.

Take advantage of a Spring Pass and enjoy unlimited entry to the Gardens from 1 March to 31 May, price £20, available online or from the Gardens Shop.

Adults £10 (normal entry), Children £7.50 – includes all activities and chocolate prize.

Book online: www.westdean.org.uk/gardens/ events/easter-trail

You and your young eggsplorer(s) can wonder the 40acre site and join in with an Easter trail, find the clues and win a chocolate prize!

Eaten too much chocolate and full of energy? Hop into action and play traditional Easter games and get creative with craft making. Activities vary daily and will run from 9 – 19 April. As you walk around the site you can also see heavy horses, as well as Southdown lambs, sheep and other traditional farm animals!

From Good Friday to Easter Monday (10 - 13 April) visitors can experience traditional Easter preparations and celebrations, which begin with the traditional Good Friday bake in Winkhurst Tudor kitchen and end with the Easter bonnet parade on Easter Monday.

Dogs on short leads are welcome and there is free parking. If you are not full from all your chocolate eggs, come and enjoy a hot drink and warm food in the Museum’s waterside café. The café will be open from 9am and there are lots of picnic areas for you to sit down and enjoy the stunning backdrop of the museum site in the South Downs National Park.

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Easter Fun 10 - 13 April, 9am - 5pm (last entry 4pm) Easter Crafts • Trails • Activities Adults £10 (normal entry) | Children £7.50

Make a fel decoration, t egg and egg cr daffodil aft recycled m s with ater and more. ials,

www.westdeangardens.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Family Fun at Stansted House

Wake up to spring at Uppark

Did you know that Stansted House has activities for children? You may already have tested your navigation skills in the Maze or taken a ride on the Miniature Railway, but did you know that Stansted House offers hands-on activities and art and craft workshops for families?

What’s more – kids go FREE during school holidays. This spring look out for our Mother’s Day Gift-Making workshop or come along and decorate our Easter Tree and make your own Easter egg ornament.

House opening: 1-5pm from 12 April, Adults £10, Children £5 or become a Family Friend £30 and come in free all year. www.stanstedpark.co.uk

From spring flowers blossoming to animals yawning after hibernation, nature is waking up all around the Uppark estate.

Blankets of Daffodils, stunning springtime views and delicious foodie treats make Uppark a fun-filled family day out. Come and explore our woodlands and build your own den in our new Woodland Play Area; or pick up a trail and go on an adventure around the estate solving clues; or if you’re more of a free-spirit, why not just roll down our hills and run around our meadow?

Whatever your family’s preference, Uppark House & Garden is the place to come this Spring.

See www.nationaltrust.org.uk/upparkhouse-and-garden/ for more details

Family Fun at Horizon Leisure Centres There are lots of fun activities to entertain the kids this Easter at Horizon Leisure Centres.

Oceans of Play (Havant) and World of Play (Waterlooville) are two of the largest indoor children’s play areas in the South. There’s plenty of comfortable seating for adults to relax in, separate area for toddlers, free WIFI and café. Check out the school holiday timetable for trampolining, gymnastics and swimming with regular fun and inflatable sessions. And for teens, there’s supervised teen workout sessions for young people aged between 10 and 15 years old.

School Holiday Club - If you’re busy working, why not let the kids come to the school holiday club where they’ll have a fun packed schedule of swimming, crafts, cooking, bouncy castles, team games and so much more! Full-day, half-day and full week options at affordable rates.

Find out more by visiting www.horizonlc.com

READY FOR ACTION?

Easter Activities at Horizon Leisure Centres Inflatable Fun Sessions, 4 Large Pools & 2 Splash Pools Indoor Play Centres Toddler Groups Teen Gym Workout Holiday Kids Club

SPIES IN THE SKY 4th - 19th April

Earn your spy credentials at Portsmouth’s very own lookout tower!

Book your mission online now!

spinnakertower.co.uk Waterlooville Leisure Centre

www.horizonlc.com 023 9224 5900 info@horizonlc.com

Havant Leisure Centre

023 9247 6026

familiesonline.co.uk

Charity No. 1060896

Families Solent East 11

Journey to the Stars this Easter

7 March Story Maker Session – Science

Gosport Discover centre, High Street, Gosport, PO12 1BT. Join in for stories and some scientific experimental fun crafts. Suitable for children aged 3-10 accompanied by an adult. 50p per ticket, limited numbers so please book in advance. 11am to 12noon.

7 March Outdoor Learning Experience We’ve scoured the area for local family events this March and April! We take great care in compiling our events guide, but please contact venues before you leave home as things can change.

Throughout 2020 Horrible Histories Pirates

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Victory Gate HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3LJ, 02392 987835 www.historicdockyard.co.uk/ events-by-date/event/1711-horrible-histories-pirates Let your little pirates loose as they captain their very own ship. This fun and light-hearted look at life onboard comes complete with eye patches, wooden legs and deadly armaments ready for you to take into battle with the enemy.

Every day until 31 December 2020.

Until 26 September Mystery Warrior - The North Bersted Man

The Novium Museum, Tower Street, Chichester, PO19 1QH. www.thenovium.org/mysterywarrior Mystery Warrior: The North Bersted Man exhibition will explore the life, health and death of this fascinating man. It will attempt to explain some of the questions that have been raised by the circumstances of his burial. Visit the Novium Museum website to see the programme of free activities and events that accompany this exhibition.

Until 29 March Waking Up from Winter Trail Uppark House and Garden, South Harting, Petersfield, GU31 5QR. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events/ dc7abe2b-8829-4f03-a72ce2651cd6fdda/pages/details

Enjoy a fun, outdoor trail at Uppark House and Gardens. From spring flowers blossoming to animals yawning after hibernation, nature is waking up all around the estate. The trail will take about 30 minutes and is suitable for tiny tots and older children. £2 per trail.

Dress for the outdoors!

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5 March World Book Day

Gosport Discover centre, High Street, Gosport, PO12 1BT. Dress up as a character from your favourite book and join in for World book day with pop up stories during the day. Suitable for children aged 3-10 accompanied by an adult. FREE, no need to book but spaces are limited.

3.30 to 5pm

5 March Open Doors

Portsmouth High School, Kent Road, Southsea, PO5 3EQ, 02392 826714 www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk/opendoors-november-2019 See the school in action on a normal teaching day. Tour the school, drop-in on lessons and meet staff and the Headmistress informally over coffee.

This event offers an ideal opportunity to find out more about the school and ask any questions you may have. No need to book, simply turn up on the day and receive a warm welcome. 9am - 11am.

6 March - 26 April South Downs Planetarium Spring Shows

South Downs Planetarium and Science Centre, Sir Patrick Moore Building, Kingsham Road, Chichester, PO19 8RP. 01243 774400 www.southdowns.org.uk/Events. html#nov Experience the magic of the night sky in comfort together with expert commentary by a professional astronomer.

The full list of shows this spring from 6 March until 26 April can be found on the South Downs Planetarium website.

Not suitable for children under 6 years old. Tickets must be booked in advance or by calling 01243 774400 or ticket hotline 07818 297292. The Planetarium is not open to casual visitors.

Portsmouth High School, 36 Kent Road, Southsea, PO5 3ES. 02392 824916. www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk/ outdoor-learning-experience Join the team from 10am to 12 noon in the spacious grounds for forest school, science, nature and art activities including animal tracking and treasure hunting. Activities are suitable for children aged 3 to 11 years. Register your interest via the website and find out more about outdoor learning for your daughter from Pre-School and beyond.

7 – 8 March Historic Life Weekend Brewing Through the Ages

Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU. 01243 811363 www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ historic-life-weekend-brewingthrough-the-ages-2/ There will be brewing demonstrations and displays relating to what would have been considered normal at different eras as well as looking at developments over time. Chat to experts, see demonstrations and displays as well as explore the Museum. 10.30am - 4.00pm.

8 March Paddington Bear's First Concert

Oaklands Catholic School, Stakes Hill Road, Waterlooville, PO7 7BW. 02392 248058. www.oaklands.hants.sch.uk Magic, mystery and the story of a certain bear from Darkest Peru will all feature in Havant Symphony Orchestra’s family concert at Oaklands School, Waterlooville at 2.30pm. Bears must be accompanied by a child, and participation will be expected. Tickets are £5 per adult and £1 for every child. Further details can be found at www.havantorchestras.org.uk.

10 – 11 March Open Days

The Portsmouth Grammar School, High Street, Old Portsmouth, PO1 2LN. 02392 360036. www.pgs.org. uk/admissions/open-days/ An opportunity to see Portsmouth Grammar School in action. Hear from

The South Downs Planetarium in Chichester is an exciting place for people of all ages to visit. Sit back and relax. Get lost in our stunning fulldome images and breath-taking videos whilst our highly experienced and enthusiastic lecturers take you on a mind-blowing journey through space.

The Planetarium is located to the south of the City of Chichester, by the campus of the High School.

With its 100-seater auditorium, colourful displays and well-stocked sales kiosk, the Planetarium has something for would-be astronauts and stargazers aged 6 years and above.

In conjunction with the new fulldome video system which produces stunning immersive images and video, our magnificent star projector projects nearly 4500 stars and other celestial objects onto the dome above your head.

The Planetarium puts on new public shows every month including during the school holidays. There is free car parking adjacent to the Planetarium building, easy access for the disabled, and it is only a short walk from rail and bus stations. The Planetarium operates throughout the year but is not open every day and we regret that casual callers cannot be accommodated.

For details of all upcoming shows and our opening hours, plus a map showing you how to find us, visit the Planetarium’s website at www. southdowns.org.uk. It is always advisable to book tickets in advance, as some shows sell out quickly.

Just book and pay online with a credit or debit card or call 01243 774400 or 07818 297292 to reserve tickets and pay by cash or cheque only on the door on the day. the Head, Dr Anne Cotton, as well as being taken on a tour of the school by the pupils and having the opportunity to speak to teachers. Contact the Admissions team to attend.

Junior School Tour Afternoon - Tuesday 10 March 2pm Pre-School Tour Afternoon - Wednesday 11 March 1.30pm Junior School Tour Morning - Tuesday 28 April 9.30am Junior School Tour Afternoon - Tuesday 9 June 2pm Pre-School Tour Afternoon - Wednesday 10 June 1.30pm

11 March Dragonflies Open Morning familiesonline.co.uk

SUPERSIZED! at Marwell Ditcham Park School, Ditcham Park, Petersfield, GU31 5RN. 01730 825659. www.ditchampark.com/nursery/ ditcham-dragonflies-openmorning/ The Open Morning will give you a taster of Dragonflies and the environment your child will be learning in. During the morning there will be activities and fun for the children and tea and coffee for the adults. The team would love to see you – the day starts at 9am and finishes at 11am. Register your interest by contacting the school.

14 March British Science Week

D-Day Story, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, PO5 3NT. 02392 827261. theddaystory.com/british-scienceweek/ Explore the science behind D-Day and Landing Craft Tanks with a host of family friendly activities for British Science Week. Mad Science will lead an array of exciting, interactive events at The D-Day Story. This event is part of the national celebration to honour the great scientific work being done across Britain, and to encourage the next generation to pick up STEM subjects. Included in museum ticket price. Just drop in between 11am and 3pm, no need to book.

17 March Bedtime Stories

Gosport Discover centre, High Street, Gosport PO12 1BT Join in for some bedtime adventures pyjamas and teddies welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 50p per ticket, limited numbers so book in advance. 6-6.45pm.

21 – 22 March Historic Life Weekend Baking Through the Ages

Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU. 01243 811363 www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ historic-life-weekend-bakingthrough-the-ages/ During the weekend the museum will be celebrating the new bakehouse, with the chance to have tasters in certain areas and gain inspiration for baking at home. Butter from the dairy and flour from the mill are essential components of this weekend and you can find out more about how the produce is created and used. Chat to experts, see demonstrations and displays as well as explore the Museum. 10.30am – 4pm.

22 March and 24 April Relaxed Opening at the Mary Rose

Mary Rose Museum at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3PY. 02392 812931. maryrose.org/ events/2019/6/category/relaxedfamiliesonline.co.uk

April 2020 will see an exciting new addition at Marwell Zoo… the world exclusive toy brick event: SUPERSIZED!

opening From 10am-12 noon the lights in the museum will be at a higher level, and sound effects will be turned down.

Volunteers and staff will be on hand to guide you through the experience. At this higher lighting level, some visual displays may not be so effective, so guests wishing to enjoy the full immersive experience and displays would be advised to visit in the afternoon.

22 March Mother's Day Afternoon Tea

Aldingbourne Country Centre, Blackmill Lane, Norton, Chichester, PO18 0JP. www.aldingbournetrust.org/events. html#/ Treat your Mum this Mother's Day with a special vintage afternoon tea at Aldingbourne Country Centre! See the website for more details.

22 March Mothering Sunday

Stansted Park, Rowlands Castle, PO9 6DX. 02392 412265. www.stanstedpark.co.uk/familyfun-at-stansted-house Mum’s take a guided tour of the house with a glass of champagne while children take part in a gift-making workshop with Dad or another carer.

Pre-booking essential on 0239241 2265 or email visitors@stanstedpark.co.uk.

11am – 12.30pm. £15 mums, £5 children with a free accompanying adult.

Between 1pm and 5pm, Mum’s get free entry to the house and children can take part in a drop-in gift-making workshop – no booking required (£2.50). Normal ticketing applies.

22 March Mother's Day Craft

Petworth House and Park, Petworth, GU28 0AE. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ events/0892b2e8-94a6-4009a3de-bb09374e555e/pages/details Create a personalised frame for Mum at Petworth on Mother’s Day weekend, while she relaxes with a complimentary cup of tea and a biscuit. £5.00 per craft.

No booking needed. 11am - 3pm.

28 March Bloom Day

Fareham Shopping Centre, Fareham, PO16 0PQ. 01329 822506. www.fareham.gov.uk/latest_news/ pressrelease.aspx?guid=2981b9ab5d14-4f89-ba65-fd9638120f06 Green fingered Fareham residents are invited to a free event launching this year’s Fareham In Bloom competition.

Bloom Day will take place outside Debenhams between 9:30am and 4pm.

Activities on the day include: plant your own vegetable plug plant to take away, free seed packet giveaway, make a colourful bird feeder to take home, plus lots more.

28 March Family Days at The Novium

The Novium Museum, Tower Street, Chichester, PO19 1QH. www.thenovium.org/article/32441/ Family-Days Join in on the last Saturday of the month in the museum galleries to learn more about life in the Iron Age. Handle and hold replica weaponry and objects, learn more about what people wore and how they made their clothes, and have a go at weaving on the loom. Take part in mini-digs, craft and trails! Activities may differ each day. 10am – 2pm.

28 March Fun with Fabric

Waterlooville Library, The Precinct, Waterlooville, PO7 7DT. www.hants.gov.uk/librariesandarchives/library/events/libraryevents-eventsearch/fun-withfabric-waterlooville-28mar2020 Join in the fun with the library team who’ll be helping you to make something different each month. Limited spaces, booking essential. Suitable for children aged 5+. Parents/carers to stay.

For more information please contact the library. £2 per child.

29 March Sooty's Magic Show

Kings Theatre, 24 Albert Rd, Portsmouth, PO5 2QJ. www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk/whatson-event/sootys-magic-show/ Direct from their hit ITV series, Sooty, Sweep and Soo and TV’s Richard Cadell will amaze you with impossible tricks and sidesplitting jokes! Be astounded at Sooty’s flying car, Soo’s singing unicorn and Sweep’s levitating sausage! Performances at 11am and 2.30pm.

29 March Arthur's Dream Boat

Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB. 08448 472362 portsmouthguildhall.org.uk/whatson/event/arthurs-dreamboat/ A magical playful children’s show with breath taking puppet - his brand-new show is brought to you by Long Nose Puppets, makers of Shoe Baby and Penguin. Performance at 11am.

The brand-new immersive adventure has been created with more than two million toy bricks and will include some of the deadliest and most deceptive creatures in the world, all blown up to enormous proportions.

The larger than life brick adventure features up to 40 astonishing models of real-life creatures with an explosion of colour and size. From sneaky predators such as the fearless honey badger and venomous blue-ringed octopus, to the aptly named assassin bug, all creatures have been chosen for their colourful appearance in nature, unusual natural abilities and because they can be magnified to an eye-popping size.

4 April - 2 September

Camp Bestival - the family festi-holiday by the sea Join Fatboy Slim, Groove Armada, Liam Payne, Friendly Fires, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Becky Hill, Dick and Dom, Max & Harvey, Brainiac Live, The Sugarhill Gang, Sam & Mark, The Sherlocks & so many more at Camp Bestival.

Taking place at the start of the school holidays (July 30th-Aug 2nd) at Lulworth Castle, Dorset, this family adventure offers hundreds of things to see and do from music and shows to tree-climbing, woodland workshops, spoken word, arts, science and circus for all.

Parents are particularly spoilt at Camp Bestival; well, they do buy the tickets! Amazing live acts and DJs, raves, discos, parties, comedy, literary talks, cocktails, award-winning street food, likeminded people all in a big old field by a castle and the sea.

Kick-start your summer holidays with a 4-day family festi-holiday - voted Best Family Festival in the UK Festival Awards.

For line-up, info and tickets head to campbestival.net.

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What's on 29 March Cascade's Kids Club

Cascades Shopping Centre, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, PO1 4RL. 02392 851255. www.cascades-shopping.co.uk/ events/events/cascades-kids-clubreturns.html On the last Sunday of the month join the Cascades Kids’ Club team for sporty themed crafts and challenges. Find the Kids’ Club next to Starbucks. Free to join in. 11am – 4pm.

29 March Mini Ravers - Zoo Festival

Portsmouth Guildhall, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AB. 08448 472362. portsmouthguildhall.org.uk/whatson/event/mini-ravers-zoo-festival/ The event where you can go clubbing with the kids! Expect meet & greets from all of your little ones favourite animal characters, plus animal face-painting, 1000’s of glow-sticks, giant balloons and UV lights, giant confetti cannons, bouncy castles and a lot more!

From 4 April SUPERSIZED!

Marwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, SO21 1JH. 01962 777407. www.marwell.org.uk The brand-new immersive adventure features up to 40 astonishing models of real-life creatures with an explosion of colour and size. Ticket price included with general admission. Children aged 2-and-under go free.

4 – 19 April Spies in the Sky

Spinnaker Tower, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, PO1 3TT. 02392 857520. www.spinnakertower.co.uk Receive your mission on arrival from the Tower’s captain, rise up in the high-speed lift, get ready for action and explore the Tower to complete your mission. Impress the team and earn your spy certificate! Make sure to collect your Spy ID souvenir photo on your way out

too! Advanced booking recommended.

4 April Silver Lining's Easter Fete

The Granary, Whiteley Lane, Fareham, PO15 6RQ. 0345 313 1111.

Join in for lots of fun and games between 11am and 3pm. Entry is free, but tokens will be sold on the day for the stalls and games, with all proceeds donated to charity.

4 – 19 April Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt

Uppark House and Garden, South Harting, Petersfield, GU31 5QR. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ events/572c60b3-9dd24ee1-94a8-3bb5c6a71e01/pages/ details Pick-up a family trail to explore Uppark's garden and woodland. All participants of the trail will receive a delicious Cadbury reward (alternative available for dairy-intolerant explorers). Trails cost £3 per child, which includes the reward.

Normal admission prices apply. Please note that the venue can only accept cash payment for the trail. Dress for the outdoors!

4 – 19 April Spring Time Easter Activities Butser Ancient Farm, Chalton Lane, Chalton, PO8 0BG. 02392 598838. www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/ whats-on/2020/4/4/spring-timeeaster-activities

The farm will be open throughout the week and at weekends from 10 till 5 with lots to eggs-plore and discover!

Meet the newborn baby lambs, go on the hunt for clues to crack our springtime trail and learn a new skill with a hands-on demonstration (selected dates and times) Over the Easter weekend, meet the Saxons from Herigeas Hundas.

On the 18 and 19 April the Romans from the Butser IX Legion will also be taking up residence with displays, demonstrations and an insight into Roman life.

4 – 19 April Shipwreck Explorers with Henry VIII

The Mary Rose, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, PO1 3PY. maryrose.org/events/2020/04/04/ general-events/easter-with-henryviii/ Meet King Henry VIII this Easter and uncover a treasure trove of Tudor artefacts from the seabed! The king will be holding court, telling tales of his exploits in a dramatic, entertaining presentation suitable for all ages! Be there, or be beheaded! 10am - 4.30pm.

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4 – 19 April Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt

Petworth Park, Petworth, GU28 0AE. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ events/708f22fc-c1d6-4fbe-ad4bf74c0a5fac7f/pages/details Get ready for a weekend of fun and discovery as you spot the first signs of spring at the amazing places the National Trust looks after. Become a nature detective, solve the clues and finish your adventure with a chocolate treat from Cadbury. Suitable for children aged 4-12 years. Assistance dogs are welcome. Pick up your trail from reception. £3 per trail. No booking required. Wear clothing suitable for the outdoors. Accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

4 – 19 April Easter at the Museum

Weald & Downland Living Museum, Chichester, PO18 0EU. 01243 811363 www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ easter-activities/ Try craft activities and play traditional games. You can also see the heavy horses, as well as Southdown lambs, sheep and other traditional farm animals. From Good Friday 10 – Easter Monday 13 April visitors can experience traditional Easter preparations and celebrations, which begin with the traditional Good Friday bake in Winkhurst Tudor kitchen. Activities vary each daily and include egg painting, bonnet making and an Easter bonnet parade in the Market Square on Easter Monday. 10.30am – 6pm.

5 April Sunday Waterside Market

Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Cosham, Portsmouth, PO6 4TP. www.portsolent.com/events/ sunday-waterside-market-18 Enjoy a stroll through stalls of beautiful home furnishings, quirky gifts, stylish jewellery and impressive homemade crafts at the wonderfully popular Waterside Sunday Market.

6 – 19 April Easter Holiday Fun

Aldingbourne Country Centre, Blackmill Lane, Norton, Chichester, PO18 0JP. www.aldingbournetrust.org/events. html#/ Visit Aldingbourne Country Centre and experience all the egg-citement of Easter with a fantastic program of Easter holiday activity days! From Children's 'Wipe Out' to 'Bounce About' and 'Foam Parties' to 'Falconry'; there's something for everyone! No need to book, just turn up on the day and have a Great Day Out! Suitable for all ages. 9.30am – 4.30pm.

6 – 10 April Roamin' Roman Rabbits

Fishbourne Roman Palace, Salthill Road, Fishbourne, PO19 3QR. sussexpast.co.uk/event/roaminroman-rabbits Join in the Easter fun at the site of Britain’s first rabbits! Follow the rabbit trail around the Palace grounds and join in spring-time crafts. Don’t miss the story of Fishbourne’s own rabbit, Patch who travelled all the way from Ancient Rome!

6 – 8, 12 – 15 and 19 April Easter Fun at Stansted House Stansted Park, Rowlands Castle, PO9 6DX. 02392 412265. www.stanstedpark.co.uk/familyfun-at-stansted-house

Drop in and help decorate the Easter tree and make your own Easter egg ornament. £2 - no booking required.

During opening hours children can follow the Easter Trail around the house and children get free entry during the holidays! 11.30am – 3.30pm.

6 April Peter Pan

Kings Theatre, 24 Albert Rd, Portsmouth, PO5 2QJ. www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk/ whatson-event/peter-pan-artisantheatre-school/ Enjoy the classic children's tale, performed at the Kings Theatre. Complete with flying performers, unforgettable musical numbers and deadly pirate ships this family spectacle is not to be missed!

7 April Kids Club: Top Banana Circus

Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Cosham, PO6 4TP. www.portsolent.com/events/kidsclub-top-banana-circus-5 Experience a fun circus workshop to learn some amazing skills, from juggling, high-wire, devil sticks, pedal racers, plate spinning and lots more with the team from the Top Banana Circus from 11am – 4pm.

9 April Celebrating Stitch

D-Day Story, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, PO5 3NT. 02392 827261. theddaystory.com/celebratingstitch/ Have a go at sewing and make a small item to take home. No experience necessary. You can also see the stunning Overlord Embroidery, created to commemorate the D-Day landings.

Included in museum ticket price. Just drop in, no need to book. 11am – 3pm.

familiesonline.co.uk

What's on

Her luck soon changes when she’s chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire, Oliver Warbucks.

Meanwhile, spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas and hatches a plan to spoil Annie’s search for her true family…See website for performance times and ticket details.

9 April Kids Club: Easter Disco Party Fun Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Cosham, PO6 4TP. www.portsolent.com/events/kidsclub-easter-disco-party-fun Kids love to dance and be silly so pop along and join in the fun and games with Justin from Children’s Parties Portsmouth at the Easter Disco Party with a very special guest, the Easter Bunny. Each disco will take place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

10 – 13 April Easter Trail and Craft Activities

West Dean Gardens, West Dean, Chichester, PO18 0RX. www.westdean.org.uk/gardens/ events/easter-trail-crafts Follow one of the Easter themed trails for a chocolate prize upon completion (allergen free options will also be available). Easter-themed interactive games and arts and crafts activities. Child £7.50 / Adult £10 (seasonal garden entry) Children under 16 enjoy free Gardens entry but will need an Easter ticket to participate in the activities. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

10 - 13 April The Great Easter Seashell Hunt

Diving Museum, No 2 Battery, Stokes Bay Road, Gosport, PO12 2QU. www.divingmuseum.co.uk/event/ the-great-easter-seashell-hunt/ Every year we spring into action with our Easter egg hunt with a difference. Find the seashells hidden in the museum to win a shell with some little chocolate ‘pearls’ in it. A great little treasure hunt for little ones (and their grown-ups). Arrive any time between 11am and 3.30pm to join in the fun. £10 per hunt.

11 Apr and 13 Apr Easter Egg Hunt

Aldingbourne Country Centre, Blackmill Lane, Norton, PO18 0JP. 01243 542075 www.aldingbournetrust.org/greatdayout Look deep around the Country Centre to find some eggs and you may find yourself an Easter Treat! No need to

familiesonline.co.uk

book just come along and have a Great Day Out! Suitable for age 2 - 8 years. 10 am to 4 pm. £7.50.

11 April Roald Dahl and the Imagination Seekers

The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS. thespring.co.uk/whats-on/family/ roald-dahl-and-the-imaginationseekers/ A theatrical and interactive family show inspired by the works of Roald Dahl and delivered through performance, games and creative play that explores Roald Dahl's extraordinary stories; including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The BFG and The Twits. Performances at 11am and 2.30pm.

14 April Kids Club: Potty Pirate Show Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Cosham, PO6 4TP. www.portsolent.com/events/kidsclub-potty-pirate-show

Captain Crossbones will be hosting a pirate's voyage across the seas in his Potty Pirate storytelling and magic shows at 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm and 3pm.

15 – 16 April Rapunzel – A Tangled Musical Tale

New Theatre Royal, 20-24 Guildhall Walk, Portsmouth, PO1 2DD. 02392 649000. www.newtheatreroyal.com/ performances/rapunzel-a-tangledmusical-tale/ Let your hair down and get tangled in a brand-new musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale, Rapunzel. With magic and mayhem throughout and a chance to meet the characters after the show, this is one hair-raising adventure the family won’t want to miss! See website for performance and ticket details.

15 – 18 April Annie The Musical

Kings Theatre, 24 Albert Rd, Portsmouth, PO5 2QJ. www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk/whatson-event/annie-the-musical/ Enjoy a performance of this theatreclassic at the Kings. Set in 1930’s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage.

16 April Kids Club: Silly Scott and the Creation Station Port Solent, The Boardwalk, Cosham, Portsmouth, PO6 4TP. www.portsolent.com/events/ kids-club-silly-scott-and-creationstation-3

Make the Easter holidays magic with the fantastic Silly Scott, performing magic shows at 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm. Children can also get crafty with The Creation Station making wonderful Easter art creations from 11am - 4pm.

17 – 18 April Goldilocks and the Three Bears

Titchfield Festival Theatre, 73 St Margarets Lane, Titchfield, PO14 4BG. 01329 556156. www.titchfieldfestivaltheatre.com/ whats-on

18 April Super Spies Family Show

D-Day Story, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, PO5 3NT. 02392 827261. theddaystory.com/super-spiesfamily-show/ Discover the techniques of being a super spy during the Second World War. Learn of the courage and stories of the real-life secret agents in this fun, perilous family friendly show! Suitable for ages 7+. Loud noises, strobe lighting and smoke machine. Included in museum ticket price. 11am to 12.10am and 2pm to 3.10pm.

25 April Family Days at The Novium

The Novium Museum, Tower Street, Chichester, PO19 1QH. www.thenovium.org/article/32441/ Family-Days Join in on the last Saturday of the month in the museum galleries to learn more about life in the Iron Age. Handle and hold replica weaponry and objects, learn more about what people wore and how they made their clothes, and have a go at weaving on the loom. Take part in mini-digs, craft and trails! Activities may differ each day. 10am – 2pm.

An original adaptation of the popular story; come join the storyteller in the Acorn Theatre for an interactive show with songs, dancing and theatre skills for all the family. Join in the fun at No.3 Grizzly Cottage and help to tell the wonderful story of Goldilocks! Performances at 11am and 2.30pm.

18 April Story Maker Session – Spring

Gosport Discover centre, High Street, Gosport, PO12 1BT. Spring is in the air .. Join us for some stories and crafts around new life and springtime. Suitable for children aged 3-10 accompanied by an adult. 50p per ticket, limited numbers so please book in advance. 11am to 12noon

18 April Romans!

The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre, 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS. thespring.co.uk/whats-on/family/ romans/ Challenge your inner centurion, play 3000-year-old board games and strive for victory in a gladiatorial bout of rock-paper-scissors. Aimed at all ages, the brilliant Mini Colosseum playscape is brought to life by you, the players.

Using percussion, games and interactive storytelling we recreate the anticipation and excitement of ancient Rome in all its glory. Romans! A free, interactive activity for the whole family. 10am – 2pm.

If you visit an event or activity this Easter, don't forget to tell the venue you saw it in

Families Solent East 15

© National Trust 2019. Registered Charity no. 205846.

Photography © National Trust Images/Andrew Butler

Easter

AT THE MUSEUM

4-19 April | 10.30am-6pm The Museum is a wonderful place to visit at Easter. From our Traditional Easter weekend to family-friendly Easter activities.

Spring delights

There is something for everyone!

at Uppark House and Garden Discover the wonders of nature on our spring family trail. Journey around historic gardens and rolling woodlands and take part in our Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt.

Activities vary daily and include egg painting, bonnet making & an Easter bonnet parade on Easter Monday.

These are the places that make us.

01730 825415

nationaltrust.org.uk/uppark-house-and-garden

Visit wealddown.co.uk for more information

FIRST STEPS

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Nurturing and developing a lifelong love of learning is at the heart of our provision for our youngest children at The Portsmouth Grammar School. Children can start in our Pre-School at 2 ½ years old to ensure an easy transition in to the Junior School. We would be delighted to arrange a tour of the Pre-School and Junior School for you to find out more.

Do call us on 023 9236 0036 to arrange a visit.

Pre-School | Junior | Senior | Sixth Form 023 9236 0036 | www.pgs.org.uk

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