Top family-friendly festivals for the summer
Compiled by Andrew Campbell
Discover the ultimate family-friendly festivals across the UK this summer, where music, arts and outdoor adventures come alive for all ages. Discover unique experiences which will ensure memorable moments and endless fun for families in vibrant, engaging and often idyllic settings.
Cheese & Chilli Festival, Hampshire West Sussex & Dorset
Christchurch 17-18 May
Winchester 7-8 June
Chichester 21-22 June
The Cheese and Chilli Festivals in Christchurch, Winchester and Chichester offer a fun-filled experience for all ages. Alongside the delicious cheese and fiery chilli tastings for grown-ups, there’s loads to keep the kids entertained - from magic shows and funfair rides to live music and interactive games. With street food, craft stalls and a relaxed festival atmosphere, it’s a great way to enjoy the sunshine. www.cheeseandchillifestival.com
Elderflower Fields, Ashdown Forest, Sussex 23-24 May
This delightful, family-friendly event offers a weekend filled with music, sports, nature exploration and arts. Tailored for families with young children, this intimate festival offers a secure environment where kids can freely explore. Highlights include Dragonfly Hill for lively performances and Leapfrog Lawns for crafts and games. www.south.elderflowerfields.co.uk
The Big Retreat, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales 23-25 May
The festival celebrates wellbeing and adventure with yoga, fitness and live music. It offers diverse children’s activities, including storytelling, discos, water slides, circus toys and bushcraft workshops for survival skills and nature exploration. Families can enjoy a creative and inspirational atmosphere filled with arts, crafts, singing, dancing and wellbeing classes – an inclusive experience in which they can have fun, enjoy and learn together. www.thebigretreatfestival.com
Latitude, Henham Park, Suffolk 24-27 July
Award-winning Latitude is among the biggest of the family-friendly festivals with a huge array of activities for both children and parents. It’s a proper pop festival in the beautiful grounds of Henham Park with a stunning Kids’ Area. Expect fire shows, pizza-making, traditional woodland crafts and exciting science experiments, a more relaxed but packed programme in the Enchanted Garden and an Inbetweeners Teen Area. www.latitudefestival.com
Camp Severn Kids Festival, West Mid Showground, Shropshire 25-27 July
Camp Severn offers an all-inclusive adventure for children ages 3 to 13. This family-friendly event is packed with interactive workshops, outdoor games and themed events such as Space Camp, with Star Wars characters, singing princesses and inflatables. The festival also features engaging science workshops, blending fun and education. With camping options available, families can immerse themselves in the festival atmosphere, enjoying a hassle-free experience where all activities are included in the ticket price. www.kids-events.co.uk
Festival of Sport, Packington Estate, Warwickshire 1-4 August
The Festival of Sport at Packington Estate offers families an exciting weekend filled with diverse sports activities for children ages 5 to 17. Featuring expert coaching and interactions with sporting legends, kids can explore rugby, hockey, cricket and more. Set in a picturesque location, this festival provides a unique opportunity for children to learn, play and be inspired by sports heroes. www.festivalofsportuk.com
Camp Kindling, Sevenoaks, Kent 15-18 August
A magical, intimate, safe and secure family retreat in an ancient forest, featuring over one hundred activities. Children can enjoy thrilling adventures like water slides, zip lines and rock climbing, while adults delight in live music, theatre and comedy performances. Pre-bookable activities ensure no lost time and there are no hidden costs. www.campkindling.co.uk
Victorious Festival, Southsea Common, Portsmouth 22-24 August
Victorious Festival 2025 will bring the best live music, comedy and family entertainment to Southsea Common this August. There is a great line up of artists including Kings of Leon, The Charlatans, Rizzle Kicks and Craig David. Plus, the Kids Stage has a line up jam packed with family TV favourites, princesses and dance troops, meet and greets, mini disco arts and crafts and much more. Day and weekend tickets are available as well as weekend camping. www.victoriousfestival.co.uk
Elderflower Fields
Camp Kindling
Festival of Sport
Victorious Festival
Editor Rebecca Carr
rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.uk 07789 882467
Sales Claire Clarricoates 07812 218331 claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk
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Preparing
Record-breaking scholarship success for Prince’s
Mead
Prince’s Mead, in Winchester has achieved a record-breaking 23 scholarships. This outstanding accomplishment reflects the hard work and dedication of the pupils, supported by the expertise of the teaching staff.
An impressive 10 academic scholarships were awarded, alongside recognition in sport, performing arts and art. Scholarships were granted by many of the country’s most respected senior schools, underlining Prince’s Mead’s commitment to academic and co-curricular excellence.
Head, Adam King, commented: “At Prince’s Mead we strive to nurture and develop each child’s individual talents and this accomplishment reflects that ethos. We are immensely proud of every pupil and look forward to seeing them continue to thrive in their next chapter.”
Prince’s Mead takes pupils from age 3 in Nursery through to 11 years old in Prep. Visit www.princesmeadschool. org.uk to find out more or sign up for their next Open Morning on 16 May.
Enjoy a family day out on Southampton’s heritage steamship, SS Shieldhall
2025 is a big year for Steamship Shieldhall as she celebrates her 70th year afloat! Constructed in 1955, Shieldhall has a full programme of sailings between May and September, with cruises from both Southampton and Poole.
A special Titanic themed cruise is being staged on Saturday 14 June, highlighting the Titanic berth and Shieldhall’s many links with the liner. On all trips, guests can visit the Engine and Boiler Rooms, Bridge and raised F’o’c’sle - it’s access all areas on Shieldhall! There is plenty of outdoor and covered seating on board; a well-stocked galley serving hot and cold food, together with a licensed bar.
Family tickets are available on all cruises, which vary in length from 2 hours to all day sailings. Shieldhall is the rated the ‘No 1 Thing to Do in Southampton’ on TripAdvisor. For more info and to book, visit www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk, email: tickets@ss-shieldhall.co.uk or call 023 8155 0242.
Nikki Saunders brings autism representation to television
Mumpreneur and author Nikki Saunders has broken barriers by championing representation for neurodivergent children through her Ready Eddie Go series. Inspired by her son Tyler, diagnosed with autism at age 3, Nikki created the series to address a glaring lack of positive books about autism.
The books explore everyday challenges - like haircuts, birthday parties and painting - offering strategies to help children cope. With visuals and clear structures, they encourage understanding and confidence for all readers, particularly autistic children.
The success of the books led to the creation of a SKY Kids TV series, reflecting Nikki’s family experiences. Narrated by Jodie Whittaker (Dr Who), each episode follows Eddie as he navigates challenges, supported by inclusive contributions from autistic writers and animators. Nikki also developed interactive workbooks to complement the show, fostering understanding of social situations.
Find out more at www.readyeddiego.com
Visit The Chilli & Cheese festival for family fun this summer
Looking for the perfect family day out this summer?
The Cheese and Chilli Festival running in Christchurch, Winchester and Chichester this summer offers a funfilled experience for all ages.
Alongside the delicious cheese and fiery chilli tastings for grown-ups, there’s loads to keep the kids entertained - from magic shows and funfair rides to live music and interactive games. With street food, craft stalls and a relaxed festival atmosphere, it’s a great way to enjoy the sunshine.
Book your tickets early for the following shows, adults from £9 and kids under 16 go FREE.
Christchurch 17-18 May
Winchester 7-8 June
Chichester 21-22 June
www.cheeseandchillifestival.com
When should I apply for a school place?
By Melanie Sanderson
Navigating the school admissions process can be a daunting task and it’s never too early to start. For selective independents, especially the most oversubscribed ones, you may need to register up to three years in advance to enter the highly competitive admissions process. The state system equally has rigid deadlines that must be followed to secure a place in your school of choice. Here is a lowdown on all the various processes and key deadlines to help you plan ahead.
For state primary schools, the admissions process begins in the autumn term of the year before your child is due to start school. Attend as many Open Days as you can in the year prior as few state schools offer personal tours. Book in early for these –places fill up fast!
The application deadline is usually the second week of January. Primary school admissions are co-ordinated by your local authority which specifies dates and procedures. After submitting your application through your local authority’s Common Application Form, you can expect to receive your school offer notification in mid-April.
Most secondary school applications are also handled via local authorities, with the application process for Year 7 entry running from 1 September to 31 October in the prior year.
Grammar schools may have additional requirements such as registering for entrance tests during the summer term of Year 5 (your primary or prep school will guide you through the process), with examinations from the September of Year 6. Offer notifications are sent at the beginning of March.
Most independent schools have entry points at 3+, 7+ and 11+. Nursery places are in high demand and usually offered on a firstcome, first-served basis (London schools are the exception with some testing at age 3 and 4+) so it’s crucial you consider your options as soon as possible.
For all independent settings your first task is to register your child. The deadline is usually in the autumn of the year before you would like your child to start. There may be a registration fee and a deposit later on to secure your place. Make sure you understand what the agreement involves and under what circumstances you get your money back.
Plan lots of school visits in the year or two prior to when your child would be due to join the school. Open Day seasons are twice a year – usually September/October and February/March and most independent schools offer smaller or even personal tours too.
Melanie Sanderson is Managing Editor of The Good Schools Guide (www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk), which reviews the key components of hundreds of schools, providing parents with in-depth, unbiased insights.
Ditcham Park School
Nr Petersfield, GU31 5RN 01730 825659
ditchampark.com
Summer Open Morning Sat 17 May, 10am
King Edward VI Prep School Southampton SO15 5UQ kes.school
Nursery & Prep School
Summer Fete Sat 17 May
Prince’s Mead School Winchester SO21 1AN princesmeadschool.org.uk
Open Morning Fri 16 May Call or book online.
Portsmouth High School, GDST
Southsea, PO5 3EQ 02392 826714
portsmouthhigh.co.uk
Summer Drop-in Morning Sat 14 June, 10am-12pm
Year 5 Space Experience Sat 14 June, 9am-12pm
Pre-booking essential.
St Swithun’s Winchester SO21 1HA stswithuns.com
Prep School Open Afternoon Fri 16 May
The Portsmouth Grammar School
Portsmouth, PO1 2LN pgs.org.uk
Pre-School & Junior Open
Mornings Wed 21 May, Tue 10 June
Senior Open Afternoon Thu 19 Jun, 2.30pm
Writing for a purpose
By Zuzu Jordan
For some children, writing feels like a chore rather than an enjoyable or meaningful activity. And when AI apps generate text instantly, there’s definitely a disincentive for the less inclined to develop writing skills. So how do we inspire a love of writing and encourage young minds to pick up a pen? Firstly, children engage more when they understand the purpose of writing; whether to entertain, persuade, inform or recount.
They also need a topic they care about. First-hand experiences help generate ideas. For example, if writing instructions for making a sandwich, they should make one first. Family outings also provide excellent material for writing, making it more personal and enjoyable.
Providing strong text examples helps children recognise the key features of different genres. Showing them formal letters teaches layout and language expectations for these, while a nonchronological report follows a different structure. Understanding the genre builds confidence and improves writing.
Discussing the target audience and purpose also increases motivation. For example, children writing to their headteacher to request longer break times will be driven to craft a strong argument! Knowing their writing could create real change makes the task more meaningful and engaging.
Receiving a response can definitely boost confidence and enthusiasm. Even Sir David Attenborough has replied to children’s handwritten letters! It’s useful to research potential recipients in advance so your child is engaged with the
improvement. It also allows children to celebrate their efforts, particularly when writing to entertain. Positive feedback from peers and adults further builds confidence, making writing more enjoyable and rewarding.
Opportunities to showcase children’s writing can make it more meaningful for them so submitting work to school newsletters, local newspapers or writing competitions can deliver a sense of accomplishment. At home, sharing stories with family members or displaying work reinforces the importance of their efforts.
Creative approaches including storytelling games, comic strips or collaborative writing exercises can make writing fun, while encouraging journalling allows children to express their thoughts freely, improving their skills without pressure.
Fostering a love for writing requires purpose, engagement and encouragement. With the right support, children should be able to see writing as more than a school task and enjoy it as a tool for creativity, communication and self-expression.
Zuzu is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for 18 years and is director of Arnett International. For free resources and tips, find her on Instagram edumate_uk
Historical creative writing
Writing about history can be challenging as children cannot experience it directly.
Pictures, videos and artefacts help bring history to life. Organisations like Time Capsule Education (www.timecapsule.education) offer immersive resources that go beyond surface-level writing. A child asked to write as a Roman boy or girl without stimulus will produce weaker work than one who has handled artefacts, engaged in role play and watched enactments.
Reading historical texts like Beowulf and making crosscurricular links further develops ideas. Visiting historical sites and taking part in interactive activities enhances writing, while keeping a digital diary provides prompts.
A blank page can feel daunting, so sentence starters and word banks help kick-start writing. Surprisingly, computer games can aid the process by offering detailed settings that inspire descriptions. Access to a thesaurus, online or in print, encourages varied vocabulary. By combining research, experiences and creative tools, children can produce richer, more engaging historical writing.
Helping a child with suspected learning difficulties
By Usha Patel
Is your child upset in the mornings on school days? Are there constant complaints of stomach ache, crying and other bogus illnesses? And, in contrast, are weekends and holidays trouble-free? A trip to the shopping centre, to the Lego shop or popping over to gran’s for a cuppa - nothing is too much bother and there is little or no resistance. You may find that at weekends less sleep is required and to your surprise, your child is up an hour earlier and ready to take on the day.
Then there is your dread on a Sunday night because Monday is looming. It is back to the troubles of the week before.
You may be struggling to understand why your normally chatty and curious child has such an aversion to school. You think about this, worry about it. You may google ‘has my child got dyslexia?’ or ‘what is neuro-divergence?’
Convinced your child has some sort of learning difficulty?
I want to say: please hold on! I understand you are desperate to help but your child may be too young to be diagnosed (a diagnosis is not possible until age 8 in the UK). The school keeps saying everything is fine, but you are not convinced. That seed is now growing into a small tree and you see a forest on the horizon. You see the Oxbridge option evaporating in front of your eyes and each day compounds your fear.
So what?
Did you know Albert Einstein, Thomas Eddison and Steven Spielberg all had some sort of dyslexia or neurodivergence? What about Jamie Oliver, Tom Cruise, John Lennon and Pablo Picasso? Yep, them too!
As time goes on, the world of work is learning that people who do not fit the ‘typical’ way of thinking are actually the gems they want to employ. In a world of machine learning and artificial intelligence, your child will stand out as having valuable and unique processing skills that mark them out from others in a good way. The sort of special processing skills even the smartest computers will not be able to learn for themselves.
The best thing you can do is keep your child curious to learn Learning is not solely about what your child takes in via reading. It can take many different routes; from talking to people to going to museums and seeing things that spark interest, even watching YouTube videos. If your child doesn’t choose reading, it
Saturday Drop-in
Saturday 14 June 10am to 12pm
Personal tours, meet staff and have your questions answered. Register online.
does not mean they do not like stories. Reading to your child or listening to an audio book is just as valid.
Prompt your child to write down their ideas and when you read them, do so without picking out the spelling mistakes. Allow them to use your phone to record their ideas and then you can write them down or they can listen and write them slowly for themselves.
Focus on the value of their ideas and thoughts and overlook the mistakes. By nurturing curiosity, you are allowing your child to flourish. This is not to say you do not help them with their spelling, grammar and punctuation but being too strict about these will damage their self-esteem.
Supporting your child
Keep your child happy by celebrating and praising their strengths to help them engage. Everyday activities: sports, baking and art all develop essential skills. Ensure they can work in sequence, as this impacts learning and daily routines. You may notice struggles with sequencing their thoughts in morning routines or problem-solving. Focus on teaching structured steps early; sustained attention is key.
Building skills
Encourage movement - it boosts learning. Young children aren’t built to sit still for long, so integrate activities like playing catch while spelling. Movement sharpens focus and retention.
Understanding working memory is crucial; strong working memory aids reading, maths and daily tasks. Test and strengthen it through memory games, repetition and structured routines.
Everyday skills like setting the table help develop focus and accountability. Small, purposeful actions reinforce cognitive growth, making learning smoother and more enjoyable.
Usha Patel is a Neurocognitive Therapist at Raviv Practice London (www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk).
Space Experience Day
For girls in Year 5 now
Helping girls’ ambitions take off
Saturday 14 June 9am to 12pm
Girls currently in Year 5 are invited to prepare for launch into senior school and join us for a morning of lessons and fun. Book your daughter’s place now via the school website.
Preparing for your return to work
By Karen Danker
At the moment our household is in mid-exam crisis mode. With one son about to sit university finals and my younger son A-levels, I’m doing my best to support from the sidelines, making cups of tea and stocking the constantly emptying fridge!
I’ve also been encouraging my kids to prepare mentally, positively channelling their adrenaline and discussing what to do if they have a crisis of confidence just before an exam.
Advance preparation is similarly vital when you make the decision to return to work. Preparing on three fronts: professional/technical, practical and mental will reap dividends and can really help you feel much calmer and more in control of the process.
Professional/technical preparation
Take steps to bring your knowledge back up to date. If you feel your skills are rusty, check out free online courses to help you upskill, through websites such as Coursera (www.coursera.org) Udacity (www.udacity.com), Cisco Academy (www.netacad. com) and LinkedIn Learning.
Resubscribe to professional journals. This can help you reconnect with your old sector and understand any major developments, new language or acronyms.
Talk to people about what you’re looking to return to. This can help you to reconnect with your professional identity, boost your confidence and refine your career narrative. Reconnect with ex-colleagues and other contacts you were once close to on LinkedIn and arrange to meet up to discuss ideas and explore opportunities.
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Practical preparation
Having practical support networks in place can ease some of the stresses when you return. If you’re going to need childcare, research this as soon as possible to give yourself a good window to settle your child in and consider your Plan B if they’re unwell. If you have other caring responsibilities, say for elderly parents, think ahead about what other support you may need once you return.
Reflect on the commitments of your current week and consider how things will work once you add employment into the mix. Consider household chores, as well as voluntary activities and decide what you can start to cut back on or delegate and what other support you might be able to bring in.
This is also a great time to get other members of your household more engaged in domestic life and sharing the load! Start to delegate more to your children and encourage their independence. If you have a partner, share more of the home responsibilities.
Think carefully about how work can fit with your life. Map out a balanced work week. When do you want/need to be at home? Prioritise what’s most important to you and practice saying ‘no’ to other requests to free up your time. You’ll need to be flexible about how this might pan out once you get into job discussions but being clearer on your non-negotiables will help you to target the right opportunities.
Mental preparation
Returners’ professional confidence often takes a hit while on a career break. Your professional preparation will help you to boost your confidence, as you reconnect with your professional identity and get clarity on the strengths and experience you can bring to your new role. Remember, your strengths, skills and experience are still there despite your break, even if your knowledge might be a little rusty.
Spending time with those that are championing your return will increase your energy and enthusiasm for returning to work and will help you to overcome any self-doubt. Sharing your excitement with your family will get them involved in your journey and rooting for you, as well as helping them accept the inevitable changes to come.
Building peer support can also help you navigate any ups and downs. You can join the pay-if-you-can Career Returners Community (https://community.careerreturners.com) for peer support and access to a wealth of return-to-work resources and advice. Hearing other people’s successful return to work journeys can be a real motivator! You can also tune in to the Career Returners Podcast (www.womenreturners.com/ returners/career-returners-podcast) and delve into its Success Story Library (www.careerreturners.com/returners/successstories) to learn from other returners who have trodden similar paths and are now flourishing back at work.
Karen Danker is Head of Coaching at Career Returners (www.careerreturners.com), a consulting, coaching and community organisation, specialising in enabling professionals who have taken a long career break to get back to fulfilling work.
Party games for outdoors or large indoor venues
By Tamsin Ryan
If you are hosting a party outside, then it’s a great excuse for planning lots of fun and energetic outdoor party games to tire the kids out! Most of the games below would work equally well in a large indoor venue too, such as a church hall or a gymnasium. If you are somewhere you don’t know well, then do a quick recce to check the area for any hazards before you start the games. If outside, be clear where the children are allowed to go and where the boundaries are and make sure they know not to talk to strangers.
Pétanque/Boules
You can hire Giant Jenga or you could buy it second hand. You can find the rules of play online.
Balloon on a String
Each child ties a balloon to their ankle with a piece of string (about 50cm long). While the music plays, the children walk around trying to burst the other children’s balloon and protect their own. The winner is the last child left with a balloon intact.
Cross
Split the children into teams and give each team an equal number of ‘stepping stones’ (these could be something like placemats from IKEA). The children have to work together in their teams to get from one side of the room/field to the other, just stepping on the stepping stones.
Reasonably cheap to purchase, this is a team game. If you have a large number of children you may want more than one set of boules. Find the rules online.
Getting Dressed Relay
At one end there is a basket for each team. One at a time each child has to run to the basket, put all the clothes on and then off again and run back and tag the next team member and so on. You could also do this in fancy dress outfits, particularly if it’s a themed party.
Capture the Flag
Form two teams. Divide the room or outdoor space into two halves. Each team hides a flag in their half and also has a ‘jail’, which could be a hula hoop. The aim is for each team to try and grab the other’s flag. If a child from one team enters the other team’s half of the field and gets tagged, then they go to ‘jail’ and have to remain there until one of their team members tags them. The winning team is the first one to capture the opposition’s flag.
Under/Over
Each team stands in a line and passes the balloon from the first child down the line to the last child. The first child passes the balloon through their legs, the next passes it over their head and the next through their legs and so on.
One child (the batter) has a tennis racket and must stand with their feet together and not move. The other children bowl a tennis ball and try to hit the batter’s legs below the knee and the batter has to try to hit the ball away, so the ball doesn’t touch their legs (without moving their feet). If the batter is hit below the knee or the ball they hit is then caught by one of the other children, then the batter is out.
Find lots more ideas for children’s parties, as well as advice and details on party suppliers on Tamsin’s blog at www.icecreamandjelly.com
the Lava
Giant Jenga
Tennis Cricket
Summer camps and workshop the options
By Andrew Campbell
Summer holiday camps, courses and workshops are not only an ideal way to fill in childcare gaps during the long summer holiday but also offer the opportunity for your child to discover a new hobby or take their existing passion to a new level.
Multi-activity day camps. These camps offer a diverse daily schedule of sports and creative activities, with multiple sessions lasting one hour to ninety minutes. Ideal for kids with varied interests, they generally feature sports, arts and craft, outdoor exploration and games.
Camps offer flexible booking options, including single days, half days, full weeks, extended hours and multi-week discounts.
Sport/single activity camps or workshops. Sport and single activity camps or workshops are perfect for kids keen to focus on specific interests, including sports, creative arts, performing arts or STEM. These programmes, running from a day to two weeks with sessions lasting two to five hours a day, often wrap up with performances, games or project showcases. They cater both to experienced children seeking expert coaching and newcomers curious about trying something different, offering immersive experiences to enhance skills, boost confidence and ignite enthusiasm.
These camps or workshops offer expert guidance for passionate children and valuable insights for those exploring new interests. They foster personal growth, help children meet like-minded peers and provide enriching holiday experiences.
Out of the ordinary. Traditionally themed camps or workshops are great but there’s a world of unique activities waiting to spark
curiosity and creativity too!
How about a circus skills workshop? Children can learn juggling, tightrope walking and acrobatics in a fun and energetic environment. It’s not only entertaining but also improves balance, co-ordination and confidence.
For something out of this world, sign your child up for a space and astronomy camp. Through telescope sessions and handson experiments, children can discover the wonders of space while developing a passion for science. Your budding chef could even take their culinary prowess to the next level at the surprising range of cooking camps available across the country.
Why not consider a residential camp to develop independence, social skills and confidence? Short-term stay options, such as Tryout Camp (www.summercampstrust.org/tryoutcamps-2025), operated by the Summer Camps Trust in Worcestershire, make it more manageable and affordable for both parent and child. Or the entire family can experience camp life at Summer Camp, a series of nature-based micro-festivals organised by The Good Life Society (www.thegoodlifesociety. co.uk) at Flintshire’s Hawarden Estate.
Low-cost childcare options
Use your tax-free childcare. Families can receive up to £2,000 annually per child or £4,000 for a disabled child, to help with childcare costs, including approved holiday clubs. This support is available for children up to age 11 or 17 for those with disabilities. Don’t miss this opportunity to ease your childcare holiday club expenses.
Take paid or unpaid leave. You may find that if all else fails you will need to use your annual leave. If you don’t have enough paid leave then you have a statutory entitlement to ‘parental leave’ which allows up to eighteen weeks unpaid leave per child until they’re 18.
Team up. In addition to grandparents, consider teaming up with friends to cover certain days and reciprocate in a shared arrangement.
Share a nanny. Sharing a nanny with other families is called a nanny share, where multiple families use the same nanny. The nanny may care for all children at once or split time between families.
Summer of design for budding graphic designers!
Do you have a creative child who loves art and design?
Graphic design is all about using text, colours, shapes and images to communicate a message - from eye-catching posters to slick PowerPoint presentations and cool logos.
Summer of Design is a self-paced, 6-module online course that introduces kids to the essentials of graphic design. Each module explores a different area of design with fun, hands-on projects - encouraging them to step away from screens and get creative outdoors!
Available from May to September, it’s perfect for creative kids and teens aged 10–17. Find out more and book your spot at www.summerofdesign.co.uk
Perform’s Alice in Wonderland Holiday Course
Take a tumble down the rabbit hole this summer for a topsyturvy adventure into Wonderland with Perform. Join Alice, the White Rabbit, the Queen of Hearts and all your favourite characters on a fun-filled drama, dance and singing adventure. These lively courses for children ages 4-10 run for three, four or five days (10am-3pm), culminating in a colourful performance, complete with costumes and original music.
Winchester: Holy Trinity Parish Church, SO23 8DG 28 July-1 August
Southampton: Highfield Church Centre, SO17 1RL 27-29 August
Visit perform.org.uk/alice for more info and to book.
Try Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes
Confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination.
Classes are available in Chandlers Ford, Hedge End, Lymington, Romsey, Southampton and Winchester.
To book a FREE class visit www.perform.org.uk/try
Book now for ultimate fun during the summer holidays
Join Ultimate Activity Camps for some ultimate fun during the Summer holidays (14 July-22 August).
Children aged 4-14, can enjoy a range of over 40 sports, games and craft activities each week, led by inspiring staff in superb facilities. Take the stress out of childcare and join these outstanding school holiday camps. Camps run locally at Twyford School in Winchester and King Edward VI Prepartory School in Romsey.
For your reassurance and your child’s safeguarding, staff, facilities and activities all meet Ofsted’s rigorous standards. Camps run Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm. Book by the day or week. Childcare vouchers accepted.
Book and find out more at www.ultimateactivity.co.uk
JOIN AN INSPIRING 6 WEEK COURSE
Best outdoor toys for summer
By Emilia Orviss
Outdoor play is essential for children’s development. It not only provides a healthy break from indoor routines but also offers numerous benefits that contribute to their holistic growth. Here is a selection of top-rated outdoor toys from the Good Play Guide. Each guarantee fun while also helping children to learn and grow in different ways!
Ages 1-4
Strider 12 Sport Balance Bike
A durable balance bike with a robust yet lightweight steel frame and puncture-proof foam rubber tyres. The mini-grips are tailored to fit little hands perfectly, helping children develop balance, co-ordination and confidence while they ride. £114.99.
BENEFITS
PHYSICAL HEALTH
Outdoor play can develop stronger muscles, improve co-ordination and build healthy hearts. Running, climbing and jumping are great for boosting fitness and reducing the risk of health issues later on.
Ollyball
A lightweight, inflatable ball perfect for the park, beach or garden. For added fun, children can colour in the unique cover, turning it into a personalised toy. Easy to pack and take anywhere, Ollyball guarantees lots of active play and fun for children of all ages. £16.
Ages 2+
A versatile table that allows children to explore water and sand using two sturdy play bowls. The wooden tabletop easily fits over the bowls, converting it into a standard picnic table for snack time or other activities. Offering endless opportunities for sensory play, the table also encourages social interaction as children gather around and play together. £129.99.
OF
COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT
Being outside sparks curiosity and encourages problemsolving. Nature inspires children to think creatively, explore and discover decisionmaking skills.
Classic Swingball is a great way to keep kids active and enjoy a fun, fast and furious game without having to ask the neighbours for their ball back! With a tethered ball attached to a spiral head and sturdy base, the aim is to reach the top or bottom first. Complete with two lightweight bats, it’s perfect for competitive outdoor play. £29.99.
Ages 3+
This innovative and awardwinning seesaw not only goes up and down but also spins 360°, with clever counterbalancing so kids of different weights can play together. Height-adjustable and with padded ball seats for comfort, it’s perfect for years of fun. £129.99.
OUTDOOR
SOCIAL SKILLS
When playing outdoors, children learn to share, take turns, solve disagreements and work as a team - all essential for making friends and building relationships.
Build A Bubble
A unique toy that lets children create 3D geometric shapes like cubes, hexagons and pentagons using rods and connectors and suspended bubbles that vary in size, depth and shape. This innovative kit encourages creativity, problem solving and fine motor skills. Ideal for fun and engaging, outdoor handson learning. £13.
Ages 3+
EcoSplat Reusable Water Balloons
With EcoSplat Reusable Water Balloons, kids and teenagers (and adults!) can splash and play all afternoon - no refilling hassles, no tricky tying and no rubbish to clean up. Developing hand-eye co-ordination and encouraging physical and imaginative play, these fun balloons make water fights longer, mess-free and better for the planet! £14.
PLAY
EMOTIONAL WELLBEING
Being free in calming, natural surroundings reduces stress.
A lightweight, easy to use tool perfect for young explorers. Its adjustable design, waterproof coil and multiple detection modes make treasure hunting both fun and educational. Ideal for parks, woodland walks and beaches, it promotes curiosity while boosting problem solving and concentration. £49.99.
Deluxe Picnic Table Sandpit
Spiro Hop
Swingball
National Geographic Junior Metal Detector
You will need:
Wooden pallets x 4
Bricks
Plastic bottles*
Bamboo canes
Straw
Leaves
Tiles
Cardboard
Stones/pebbles
Twigs/loose bark
* Use old plastic bottles for this and always recycle after use.
Place a wooden pallet in your chosen location. On top of the pallet, line bricks around the corners and across the middle.
Cut off the top of twothirds of your bottles. Fill up half of them with bamboo canes and the other half with rolled up cardboard. Place these inside the hotel.
Place your next pallet on top of this and repeat the process for all of your pallets.
Fill in the remaining spaces with bricks, leaves, pebbles, stones, tiles, loose bark and straw.
Add in any extra materials that you want to recycle e.g. old pipes, carpeting, toilet tubes, old plant pots. Be creative - add a welcome sign or give your hotel a name!
What's On Your family guide to
All listings correct at the time of going to print. Please check with the venue before visiting to ensure events are still going ahead and the venues are open.
ONGOING
NEW Stick Man Trail at Alice Holt Forest, GU10 4LS
Ongoing
Enjoy the wonderful world of Stick Man and complete lots of fun stick-based activities, discover tree-mendous facts and learn about forest wildlife in this interactive family trail. 9am-4pm. www.forestryengland.uk/alice-holtforest/the-stick-man-trail-aliceholt
Treasure Trails across Hampshire
Ongoing
A self-guided spy mission walking trail or treasure hunt inspired walk. Trails are 2 to 2½ miles and take approximately two hours. www.treasuretrails.co.uk
‘50 Things’ Activities at the National Trust
Ongoing
Why not try some of the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges? There’s something for every young explorer to do. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
MAY
Little People, BIG DREAMS® at The Vyne
Sat 3 May-Sun 22 Jun
Encouraging kids to ‘be bold, be brave’ and ‘dream big’ this season, don’t miss this trail Little People, BIG DREAMS® at The Vyne. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/thevyne
Nature Day at Gilbert White’s House
Sun 11 May
Annual family fun day celebrating the natural world. www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk
Pond Dipping and Dragonfly Life
Cycles at Aldingbourne Country Centre
Thu 15 May
Enjoy this education workshop from 10am-2pm with activities. www.aldingbournecountrycentre. org
The Cheese & Chilli Festival at Parley Lane, Christchurch Sat 17-Sun 18 May
Enjoy a fun-filled experience of delicious cheese and fiery chilli tastings as well as magic shows, funfair rides, live music and interactive games. With street food, craft stalls and a relaxed festival atmosphere, it’s a great day out. www.cheeseandchillifestival.com
Dino Fun at Winchester Science Centre
Fri 23 May-Mon 2 Jun
Mini paleontologists are invited to join a dino dig and handle real and replica fossil. Trixie the baby Triceratops and her friend Patrick the Parasaurolophus will be meeting new friends and posing for some prehistoric selfies and the science Inspirers will be using dino-mite demos and experiments to explore
what Earth was like when dinosaurs roamed in live science show, The Dino Show! Pre-book online. www.winchestersciencecentre.org/ may-half-term
Steam to the Solent Cruise with Steamship Shieldhall
Sat 24 May
Cruise to see the Solent Forts. Children can have fun with interactive Shieldhall logbook, collecting stickers from various stations on board plus, see the engine room, talk to the captain and more.
www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk
Go Nuts at Monkey World Sat 24-Mon 26 May
Every child who brings an unopened bag of unsalted nuts with them will receive a FREE Monkey World badge. www.monkeyworld.org/events/gonuts-at-monkey-world
Day Out with Thomas at The Watercress Line Sat 24 May to Sun 1 Jun
Time to Party with Thomas the Tank Engine. Take a ride behind Thomas, meet some of your favourite characters and join Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty for a trainload of excitement! www.watercressline.co.uk
Ben Plants a Butterfly Garden Family Trail at Petworth House
Sat 24 May to Sun 1 Jun
Join Ben and friends on this fun family trail and discover how to plant a beautiful butterfly garden. 10am-5pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ sussex/petworth
Grow, Explore, Play at Mottisfont
Sat 24 May to Sun 1 Jun
Get ready for a fun-filled adventure this May half-term. From planting sunflowers to building dens, tackling garden-themed obstacle courses, and discovering minibeasts, there’s plenty for the family to enjoy. Follow our activity trail, test your skills in the Bug Olympics and see what wildlife you can spot along the way. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ hampshire/mottisfont
Ship Shape and Anchors Away at the Mary Rose Museum
Sat 24 May to Sun 1 Jun May half-term activities. www.maryrose.org/events/mayhalf-term-at-the-mary-rose
Ways of the Warrior at 878D
Sat 24 May to Sun 1 Jun
It’s the eve of the Battle of Edington and Alfred’s bootcamp is back. Learn to hold a seax, raise a shield wall and even insult your enemies like a Saxon. Hone your skills to prepare to take on the Vikings! www.hampshireculture.org.uk/ event/ways-warrior-1
Sherlock Holmes: Adventure of the Emperor’s Gold at Milestone Museum
Sat 24 May to Sun 1 Jun
An epic history mystery with treasure, suspects and puzzles. Step into the shoes of a detective and
follow the clues around Milestones Museum in this exciting familyfriendly adventure.
www.hampshireculture.org.uk/ event/sherlock-holmes-adventureemperors-gold
Saxon Week at Weald & Downland Museum
Sat 24 May to Sun 1 Jun
Immerse yourself in the Saxon period this May half-term with fun activities. www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ may-half-term
Family Fun Day at Fontwell Park
Sun 25 May
Fontwell Park’s Family Fun Day is the perfect day out for all combining horseracing, entertainment and fun! Under 17s FREE. www.fontwellpark.co.uk/whats-on/ family-fun-day-25th-may-2025
Cruise to Portsmouth Harbour with Steamship Shieldhall Sun 25 May
Cruise to Portsmouth Harbour commemorating the 85th anniversary of Dunkirk. Activities for children included. Pre-book online. www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk
Hatch’s History Detectives at The Mary Rose Museum
Sat 25-Sat 31 May
Join Hatch, the ship’s dog as he leads you through the museum on a multi-sensory exploration of the story of the Mary Rose, her crew and the Tudor world. Book online. www.maryrose.org/events/hatchshistory-detectives
Pond Dipping at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Tue 27-Thu 29 May
Come along for pond dipping and see what is lurking in the ponds. Prebook. Ages 3+. www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/ hilliergardens/whatson
Buzz Family Theatre at Hinton Ampner
Wed 28 May
Join Billy Bumble as he shrinks down to bee-size and learns about the troubles that they face. Featuring spell-binding puppetry and a giant honeycomb set, enjoy a whirlwind ride, avoiding grumpy Mr Fred and the gaping jaws of Shredder the dog! Buzz finishes with the audience being given wildflower seeds, to plant and help the black and yellow friends to flourish. Ages 4-11. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ hampshire/hinton-ampner
Much Ado About Nothing at Petworth House Fri 30 May
Pedaling from venue to venue with all of their set, props and costumes on the back of their bikes, the HandleBards are a four-strong troupe of actors who are spending the summer bringing
environmentally sustainable Shakespeare to venues across the UK. Booking essential. Under 5s FREE. 7pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ sussex/petworth
Dogstival at Burley Park, New Forest
Sat 31 May-Sun 1 Jun
It’s a day out dedicated to our four-legged friends and packed full of canine approved entertainment. With paw-dropping arena displays, heaps of have a go activities for your pooch, live music and treats for everyone. www.dogstival.co.uk
Roman Reenactment Weekend at Butser Ancient Farm
Sat 31 May-Sun 1 Jun
Discover living history and combat reenactments and find out what life would have been like in Roman Britain. Book online. www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/ whats-on/roman-reenactmentliving-history-1
WiFI Wars at The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre
Sat 31 May
The live comedy game show where you play along. Log in with your smartphone or tablet and compete in a range of games, puzzles and quizzes to win the show and prizes! Ages 6+.
www.thespring.co.uk/event/wifiwars
Interactive Roman Storytelling Workshop at The Novium Museum
Sat 31 May
Come along for an action-packed storytelling session where history comes to life. Travel back in time to explore what life was really like for Romans and Celts. Ages 5-10. www.thenovium.org.uk
JUNE
Retro Games at Petersfield Museum & Art Gallery
Sat 7 Jun
Embark on a journey down memory lane with our Retro Games Days, where pixels meet passion and classic gaming reigns supreme! Drop-in. FREE. www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk/ events/retro-games-day-7-june
The Wind in the Willows at The Vyne Sat 7 Jun
Multiple award-winning Illyria celebrates Kenneth Grahame’s timeless tale of friendship, laughter, the longing for home and the lure of adventure. Booking essential. Performance at 6pm. Bring your own seating and a picnic. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ hampshire/the-vyne
The Worst Princess
The Cheese & Chilli Festival at North Walls Recreation Ground (River Park), Winchester Sat 7-Sun 8 Jun
Enjoy a fun-filled experience of delicious cheese and fiery chilli tastings as well as magic shows, funfair rides, live music and interactive games. With street food, craft stalls and a relaxed festival atmosphere, it’s a great day out. www.cheeseandchillifestival.com
South Downs Food Festival at Stansted Park Sat 7-Sun 8 Jun
A spectacular weekend of food, drink and celebration. www.stanstedpark.co.uk/southdowns-food-festival
Shieldhall Steam to the Solent Cruise with the Selsey Shantymen Sun 8 Jun
Shieldhall is joined by the wonderful Selsey Shantymen for renditions of popular sea shanties. 2.30-6pm, Adults £47, Children £17, Family Bundle (2+2) £111. www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk
Shieldhall Evening Music Trip with Tuto Tribe Fri 13 Jun
Enjoy a sunset Music Cruise with some inspirational samba rock, courtesy of Southampton’s very own Tuto Tribe! 6.30-9.30pm Adults £37, Children £15, Family Bundle (2+2) £88. www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk
Summer Drop-in Morning at Portsmouth High School, GDST Sat 14 Jun
The Pre-School, Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form will be open for family tours and you can meet staff and find out more about the many opportunities at the school. 10am-12pm. Booking is essential. www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk/ admissions/open-days
Year 5 Space Experience at Portsmouth High School, GDST Sat 14 Jun
Space themed lessons and fun for girls currently in Year 5 looking to join the senior school in September 2026. 9am-12pm Booking essential. www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk/ admissions/open-days
Steam to the Solent Titanic with Steamship Shieldhall Sat 14 Jun
Southampton Water towards the Solent and learn about Southampton’s links with the RMS Titanic. www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk
Comic Con at Port Solent Sat 14 Jun
An exciting day filled with comics, cosplay and all things pop culture, plus family-friendly activities. www.portsolent.com/comic-con14th-june
Father’s Day with Half Price Admission at Exbury Gardens
Sun 15 Jun
Celebrate Father’s Day with half price admission for dads. Take a stroll around the gardens, enjoy a beautiful walk along the Beaulieu River or take a ride on a steam train. www.exbury.co.uk/fathers-day
The Custom and American Show at Beaulieu Sun 15 Jun
The Custom and American Show will return on Father’s Day with hundreds of cool American motors, colourful custom cars and bikes, live music and hip entertainment. www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/ custom-and-american-show
Father’s Day with Half Price Admission at Monkey World
Sun 15 Jun
Dad’s get 50% off entry at Monkey World on Father’s Day. Book online. www.monkeyworld.org/events/50for-dads-on-fathers-day
Father’s Day at Weald & Downland Museum
Sun 15 Jun
Enjoy a family day out and explore the grounds and museum, learn and have fun with FREE entry for dads. www.wealddown.co.uk/events/ fathers-day
Meet the Birds and Nest Building at Aldingbourne Country Centre
Mon 16 Jun
Enjoy this education workshop from 10am-2pm with activities. www.aldingbournecountrycentre. org
Autism Friendly Day at Monkey World
Sat 21 Jun
Monkey World opens an hour early at 9am for visitors with autism and their families. Sensory trails, a calm room and a drop-in room for
The Cheese & Chilli Festival at Oaklands Park, Chichester Sat 21-Sun 22 Jun
Enjoy a fun-filled experience of delicious cheese and fiery chilli tastings as well as magic shows, funfair rides, live music and interactive games. With street food, craft stalls and a relaxed festival atmosphere, it’s a great day out. www.cheeseandchillifestival.com
Summer Solstice at Butser Ancient Farm Sat 21-Sun 22 Jun
Mark midsummer with music, merriment and sun-soaked mead! Celebrate light, life and togetherness with a weekend of communal festivities. Fun for all the family. www.butserancientfarm.co.uk/ summer-solstice-midsummer-2025
All Aboard the Trains at Brickworks Museum Sun 29 Jun
The event will feature model railway layouts, miniature train and tractor, trailer rides, traction engines, buses and military vehicles and more. www.thebrickworksmuseum.org/ event/all-aboard-the-trains
The Dinosaur That Pooped a Rock Show! at Theatre Royal Winchester Sat 10 May
Adapted from the best-selling book by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying this brand-new story for the stage. www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Mayflower Theatre
Tue 13-Sun 18 May
Starring the legendary Jason Donovan and featuring much loved pop and musical theatre classics. www.mayflower.org.uk
Shrek the Musical at The Point, Eastleigh Wed 14-Sat 17 May
Spot On Productions brings the beloved story to life and is packed with your favourite hilarious characters, catchy songs and heartwarming moments. www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk
The Koala Who Could at Mayflower Studios
Thu 15-Sun 18 May
Based on the book by Rachel Bright and Jim Field, this is an empowering and laugh-out-loud story about embracing change - whether we like it or not. Ages 3+. www.mayflower.org.uk
The Wizard of Oz at Fareham Live Sat 24 May
Starring the fabulous Fanny Galore as Glinda, this spectacular familyfriendly pantomime is a colourful story packed with hilarious jokes, dazzling dance routines, glittering scenery and a professional cast of West End performers. All ages. www.trafalgartickets.com
The Worst Princess at Mayflower Studios
Tue 27-Wed 28 May
A delightful dragontastic show for pop princesses and naughty knights. Ages 3+.
www.mayflower.org.uk
Let’s All Dance: Puss in Boots the Ballet at The Berry Theatre Wed 28 May
Let’s All Dance Ballet Company brings a new version of Puss in Boots about a friendship between a magical cat and a young man with a talent for music. Ages 2+. www,thepointeastleigh.co.uk
The Koala Who Could at Theatre Royal Winchester Fri 13-Sun 15 Jun
Based on the book by Rachel Bright & Jim Field, this is an empowering and laugh-out-loud story about embracing change - whether we like it or not. Ages 3+.
www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk
In the Night Garden Live at Fareham Live Sat 21-Sun 22 Jun
Join Igglepiggle as he looks for his friends in the Night Garden by following their funny sounds until he finds them all!
Ages 6 months+.
www.trafalgartickets.com
The Worst Princess at Theatre Royal Winchester Fri 27-Sun 29 Jun
A delightful dragontastic show for pop princesses and naughty knights. Ages 3+. www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk
FAMILY THEATRE
