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Editor’s Welcome
Welcome to our 2025 parties issue! We are pleased to be able to present a variety of party trends, local providers and games in a special feature. Throwing a party for a child can seem daunting, and I hope these pages will provide inspiration to make the planning process, as well the occasion, more fun.
We also have a feature on neurodiversity, as this is a topic that affects all of us, through neurodiversity within the family, amongst friends or at school. Neurodiverse children can pose challenges for parents; nevertheless, it’s also great to be able to understand and celebrate their unique superpowers.
In our education section we look at writing for a purpose and applying for a school place, plus you are sure to enjoy the diverse selection of sunny local events in our What’s On guide!
Lesley
Congratulations to Sarah Harnett, who won a bottle of Crush and Brisk sparkling wine in the Mother’s Day competition in our March/April 2025 issue.
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Enjoy Open Farm Sunday
Open Farm Sunday on 8 June provides a unique opportunity for families to explore real working farms and learn more about the countryside.
Managed by LEAF (Linking Environment and Farming), this annual event allows families and individuals to witness daily farm activities, engage with passionate farmers and learn about sustainable practices.
Visitors can enjoy tractor-trailer rides, farm tours, nature trails, bug hunts and even shop at farmers’ markets. The event bridges the gap between consumers and farmers, emphasising the importance of British agriculture.
It’s an educational, community-focused day that celebrates the hard work behind our food production and offers free access to farm experiences.
To find a farm opening their gates near you, visit www.farmsunday.org
School phone bans have limited impact
New research has found that school-wide bans on smartphone use have limited effects on students’ mental health and academic outcomes. Conducted by the University of Birmingham and funded by the NIHR, the study analysed data from 1,227 students across thirty schools in England, twenty of which had restrictive phone policies.
Although students in schools with bans spent approximately forty fewer minutes on phones and thirty fewer minutes on social media during school, the reductions did not translate into significant improvements in mental wellbeing, anxiety, sleep, physical activity or classroom behaviour.
However, the study also highlighted a concerning link between high smartphone usage - averaging four to six hours daily - and worse outcomes, including increased anxiety, poorer sleep, lower academic performance and more disruptive behaviour.
www.birmingham.ac.uk/news
Little Wickets is now in Reading!
Offering cricket fun for kids and toddlers, Little Wickets is so much more than just learning to bat, bowl and field. Little Wickets helps sow the seeds for a lifelong passion for sport and offer a fantastic way to nurture your child’s physical, emotional and social skills.
Weekly indoor sessions are run at a fantastic venue in central Reading – All Saints’ Church Hall, RG1 6NH – all hosted by enthusiastic and qualified Little Wickets coaches. The classes are split into two age groups – ‘1st innings’ classes for preschoolers as young as 2½ and ‘2nd innings’ classes for kids in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2.
Little Wickets offers trial sessions and a Newcomers Guarantee, so why not book in and see what all the fuss (and fun) is about!
Email berkshire@littlewickets.com, call 0118 907 8202, or visit www.littlewickets.com - see you there!
Mad Science Summer Camps – The Ultimate Science Camp Experience!
Unleash your child’s curiosity with a summer of mind-blowing experiments, thrilling demos, and hands-on fun at Mad Science Camps! With 6 weeks of exciting, themed days, kids will dive into the world of STEM in the most unforgettable way. Held at Ofsted registered venues across Reading & Berkshire, including Caversham, Pangbourne, Earley and Wokingham, these camps are led by trained, DBS-checked Mad Scientists who bring science to life in the most spectacular way. Book single days or full weeks, with fresh discoveries daily!
Childcare Vouchers and Tax-Free Childcare are accepted, plus generous discounts for siblings, full weeks, and groups (save 20%!). Book Before June 9th for the Early Bird Discount with code EARLY15 at checkout.
WIN a Free Week in the Mad Science Family Challenge – check Mad Science website for details.
Spots fill fast – BOOK NOW at www.madsciencecamps.co.uk Call 01792 348 205, or email Office@madscienceSW.co.uk
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 writing activity. A child studying volcanoes could write to a volcanologist; one learning about environmental issues could contact WWF or Greenpeace.
Reading work aloud helps with editing and highlights areas for
Writing blocks
Finding spelling challenging can discourage children from putting ideas on paper. Some even rewrite sentences to avoid difficult words. To overcome this, explain that their first draft is not the final version and introduce editing using a different coloured pen to show changes. This will help them see improvement over time. Encourage children to attempt tricky words, underline them and check a dictionary later to build independence.
Using a mini whiteboard allows children to erase mistakes easily, making writing feel less daunting while providing topical vocabulary supports their spelling and boosts confidence. Writing with peers can make the process feel collaborative rather than isolating and encourages children to share ideas more freely. Reading back their work aloud can also help them spot mistakes and refine their writing.
Writer’s block often stems from pressure to complete tasks quickly. Mind maps allow children to brainstorm without structure, creating a pool of ideas to draw from when stuck. Breaking writing into smaller steps makes it more manageable, helping children approach it with confidence.
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.
Meet the Head of Juniors at Crosfields School: A Journey of Leadership and Community
Mrs Emma Robson is Head of Juniors at Crosfields School in Reading. Emma says, “With over twenty years of experience in leadership roles across prep schools in Hampshire, Surrey, and Lancashire, I was delighted to join the Crosfields family in September of 2024. From my very first visit, I was captivated by the warmth of the pupils, the dedication of the staff, and the school’s strong sense of community. Crosfields is a place where you immediately feel a sense of belonging - an inspiring environment in which to work and learn.”
Educational Philosophy at Juniors
At Crosfields, we believe in providing a distinctive educational and developmental experience that empowers our pupils to discover their unique talents and the ways they learn best. Our approach fosters determination and independence while instilling an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Our pupils thrive, growing into happy, articulate, confident and truly impressive young individuals.
Unique Opportunities and Experiences
Our commitment to holistic education ensures our children have access to opportunities they might not otherwise experience. We offer a diverse range of activities, trips, visits, competitions, co-curricular clubs, societies, and annual residentials—most of which are included in our fees. Complementing our curriculum, our bespoke enrichment programme extends learning beyond traditional expectations, ensuring a truly well-rounded and inspiring educational journey.
Nurturing Individual Talents and Interests
Our dedicated teachers truly know each pupil, nurturing them with a tailored approach that accelerates the mastery of key
Springtime at Kidmore End Primary School
During the spring term, children at Kidmore End Primary School took part in a wide range of enrichment activities and exciting learning opportunities, celebrating sports, The Arts, and other life experiences outside of the daily classroom academics. Outdoor learning is held on beautiful school grounds every week, with the children guided through a range of outdoor skills such as fire lighting, hazel weaving and shelter building.
Children had the privilege of taking part in a range of Henley Youth Festival activities, in the form of Bhangra dance workshops, art and craft activities, music lessons, and Year 5s and 6s were lucky enough to watch a Young Shakespeare performance of Hamlet. Out of school, dedicated pupils won prizes in film making, writing, poetry, music and running.
At Kidmore End, everything is governed by the core values of respect, independence, community and kindness.
To find out more, please follow Kidmore End CE Primary School on Facebook, X and Instagram for regular updates.
skills and concepts across the curriculum. Through personalised challenges and targeted support, we foster a culture of ambition, encouraging every child to reach their fullest potential.
Future Plans and Aspirations
I am passionate about empowering our Junior pupils with a pioneering education that equips them with essential 21stcentury skills, including digital literacy, to thrive in an everevolving world. Leadership, confidence, adaptability, and communication are seamlessly integrated into daily experiences both inside and outside the classroom — through a rich and diverse curriculum and co-curricular programme.
If you would like to visit our school, please join us on 6 May at our Junior Open Morning or book a personal tour where one of the Senior Leadership Team will show you around our incredible school. www.crosfields.com
School Open Days May-June 2025
Open days may need pre-booking. Please check before visiting.
Crosfields School
Reading, RG2 9BL 0118 987 1810 crosfields.com
Tue 6 May: Whole school open morning
Kidmore End Primary School
Chalkhouse Green Road, Reading, RG4 9AU 0118 357 3149
St Joseph’s College Upper Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5JT 0118 966 1000 sjcr.org.uk
Thu 15 May, 9:30am: Prep open morning
Thu 5 June, 8:45am: Year 5 day
Fri 20 June, 9:30am: Stay and play
Don’t forget to say you saw these listed in Families Thames Valley Magazine!
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.
Independent options
As the name suggests, the main aim of prep schools is to prepare pupils for entry to private secondary schools at either 11 or 13. Traditionally, pre-preps take children from age 3 or 4 and prepare them to move to a prep school at age 7 or 8 (usually school year 3 or 4).
All-through schools are seamlessly linked through pre-prep, prep and senior with generally an easier transition between them, reducing the need for further application processes and assessments.
As always, London dances to its own beat. Whereas in more rural areas, it can be a case of putting little Harry or Harriet’s name down and setting up fee payments, competition for places in London’s top schools can be fierce at every stage, meaning the pressure is on.
Parents who wish to tutor their children ahead of 7+ and 11+ assessments should plan at least a year’s worth of tutoring in advance. Be aware the best tutors also have long waiting lists.
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.
Is my toddler constipated?
Constipation is common at all ages and can be treated at home by putting some simple changes in place for your toddler.
What does constipation look like in a child?
Pooing less than three times a week. When they do go, their poos may be large, hard or lumpy and harder for them to push out.
Your child may may avoid going to the toilet, be tired and lack energy.
Your child may soil his/her clothes. This happens when there is a large amount of hard poo trapped at the end of their bowel. Fresh poo leaks out around it.
If your child is toilet trained but soiling regularly, see your GP for an examination.
Causes of constipation
Constipation in toddlers can have many causes. Sometimes there’s no obvious reason. It could be not drinking enough water; not enough fruit and vegetables; change in routine (starting nursery); potty training or resistance to it or fear of the toilet.
What to do
Of key importance for healthy bowels is to drink enough. Six to eight cups of water, well diluted fruit juice or sugar-free squash a day is recommended. Avoid drinks containing caffeine and fizzy drinks.
A balanced diet including fruit, vegetables and cereals, helps keep the bowel healthy. These foods keep fluid in the poo so it’s easier to pass.
Keeping active helps get the bowel moving. Running around at the park, playing in the garden or around the house can all help! Having a good toilet routine is really helpful. Get your child to sit on the toilet or potty around twenty to thirty minutes after eating. Make it relaxed and fun and praise them for sitting there, whether they poo or not.
A good sitting position on the toilet is important. Support your child’s feet on a box or stool so their knees are above their hips. To push out a poo, we need to be relaxed, so play with your child to help them. Laughing and blowing bubbles help them use the muscles that push out the poo.
Finally, ask your child if they feel worried about using the toilet; it might be that they don’t like the toilets they use regularly, e.g. at nursery or that something has changed which is upsetting them. Remember that your child isn’t constipated or soiling deliberately so stay calm, relaxed and reassuring. Your Health Visitor can give you additional advice and guidance.
What if my child doesn’t like sitting on the toilet?
Encourage your child to sit on the toilet fully clothed with the lid down for brief periods to help them see that the toilet is a safe place.
Give lots of praise and encouragement. Once they’re okay with this, repeat with the lid up, then take off the outer layer of their bottom clothing, eventually removing pants. Don’t worry if they don’t poo – the aim is to get them to feel happy on the toilet.
If they’re still in nappies, start by loosening the tabs, before progressing to removing the nappy. Letting the nappy lie in the toilet bowl can help (remembering to remove it before flushing), as can putting toilet paper in the bowl first to reduce any splash.
Provide a step or stool to help your child get onto the toilet and have a book or toy for them to play with. Some children benefit from having something weighted on their laps when on the toilet, such as a hot water bottle or folded blanket.
For more information, visit www.healthforunder5s.co.uk
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!
Summer camps, workshops and courses: 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 hands-on 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.
Helping children find their autistic identity
By Rebecca Duffus
When a young person gets a diagnosis of autism, it does not always come with the opportunity to explore their personal autistic identity. Research shows that having a positive understanding of this is an indicator of higher self-esteem and wellbeing as an adult. Thankfully, with the right knowledge and tools, parents can initiate important conversations and support their child’s journey.
So often, autistic young people are told to stop their repetitive physical movements, taught neurotypical social skills and even disciplined purely because of their autistic behaviours. Yet we need to be actively promoting autistic pride and creating communities in which autistic youngsters can understand their strengths and have their needs catered for.
It is important that young autistic people gain a sense of their own unique story and understand feelings of difference and what difference means to them. It helps if they can also learn from the role modelling of other autistic individuals.
Giving children space and time to explore and embrace their autistic identity, in a way that is positive and empowering, is essential for their sense of self and belonging. Here are a few ideas:
Highlight differences in a positive way in everyday life. For example, apples and oranges, pens and pencils, different roles within a sports team. Each share similarities and differences and are equally good and valid. Use these examples to explain the concept of neurodiversity: how some people’s brains simply work differently.
Use visuals to explore autism characteristics and what your child’s unique autistic identity looks like. For example, show pictures related to sensory differences to prompt discussions around over-reactivity and under-reactivity to different senses. The Autism, Identity and Me Workbook (AIM) includes a range of visual prompts and space to personalise each section, so the book becomes truly theirs.
Help them develop a diary or workbook in which they can reflect on their identity. Consider buying personalised notebooks or help them to set up their own system for processing information on an ongoing basis. This could be recording voice notes, videos or typing into a document.
APOLLO
Half Term Holiday Club
Tuesday 27 to Friday 30 May
Supervised care for children aged 4-11years
8.30am to 5.30pm
Children must bring a packed lunch £23 per day
(Concessionary rate available, T&Cs apply) Childcare vouchers accepted. Ofsted Registered. For more information call 07950 628750 or email: apolloyouthclub@gmail.com
Apollo club is based at Mapp Centre, 22 Mount Pleasant, RG1 2TD
Explore accounts from other autistic individuals, particularly those your child has something in common with, so that they feel represented.
Develop an ‘Autism Identity Statement’ together which your child can use to explain to others what autism means to them.
Continue the conversation and not always verbally: use links, articles and videos. If appropriate for your child’s age, encourage them to watch or follow autism advocates such as The Aspie World, Purple Ella and Chloe Hayden.
For parents, Chris Packham’s recent Inside Our Autistic Minds, available on iPlayer, is an illuminating and informative insight into the minds of young autistic adults.
Follow their lead. You want to develop your child’s autistic pride but it is very important to respect their communication preferences. Do they want to share their Autism Identity Statement with other family members and friends or just with specific people?
Rebecca Duffus is an Advisory Teacher working with students and educators in mainstream and specialist schools, plus local council and education services.
She has created Autism, Identity and Me (AIM) personalised workbooks for young people, with an accompanying guidebook for parents. Together they help autistic young people establish and reflect upon their own unique story. Order from https://bit.ly/AIMbook
The neurodiversity pencil case
Featured in the AIM workbooks, this analogy can help with understanding difference. Sometimes people feel different from everyone else. Imagine a neurodivergent person is a pen within a classroom where the neurotypical pupils are pencils. They might feel like the only pen.
Both the pens and pencils are good at what they do. The neurodivergent people may be different from the neurotypical people but they all share similarities. They are not the only pen…. about one in seven people are neurodivergent!
Autism & ADHD Assessments with Every Mind Child Psychology in Spencers Wood
Dr Elizabeth Dawes, Clinic Directory at Every Mind answers some questions from parents.
Are Every Mind diagnostic assessments recognised by schools, Local Authorities, and the NHS?
Absolutely! We follow guidelines set out by NICE, and use ‘gold standard’ assessment tools which ensure our diagnoses are widely recognised and accepted.
What does neuro-affirming mean?
Neuro-affirming means respecting different neurotypes and brain differences. We acknowledge and celebrate different brain types and experiences of individuals. We take a strength-based approach to diagnosis which affirms and respects your child’s unique way of viewing and interacting with the world.
What happens if my child is good at masking?
Many neurodivergent children develop ways of hiding their differences from others due to fears of rejection, isolation, and discrimination, leading to anxiety, exhaustion and overwhelm. At Every Mind, we see many children who mask and see the subtle ways this can manifest. We take time to get to know your child and look for ways to adapt our approach to ensure they feel safe, comfortable and understood.
Is getting a diagnosis helpful?
A diagnosis means your child has a much better appreciation of their strengths and abilities, which increases self-esteem and wellbeing. It means people around your child have a better understanding of their needs and differences and how to support them.
www.every-mind.co.uk
Presenting Parenting Special Children, a Berkshire-based charity
Parenting Special Children was founded in 2006 by Ruth Pearse, CEO & founder and parent of neurodivergent children.
The charity was set up to help other parents/carers navigate the world of SEND at a time when there was little known support for families.
Since then, PSC has grown steadily from one person to a team of over 40 with a wide range of specialist knowledge and lived experience who offer a variety of services to over 2500 families.
At Parenting Special Children, their vision is to build a community where every family and every child who is neurodivergent and/or has special needs and/or disabilities including early life trauma, is empowered, supported and that no family ever feels alone.
Services range from a helpline, trauma and attachment service, parent/carer training, support groups, family events, CYP services and training for professionals working in schools.
Visit www.parentingspecialchildren.co.uk
Nikki Saunders brings autism representation to books and 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.
For more information, visit www.readyeddiego.com
Trending children’s party themes
By Jodie Herron
Planning a memorable birthday party for your child is extra special when you alight upon a theme that resonates with their interests and sparks joy. Looking for inspiration? Here are eight trending party themes for children ages 5 to 13, each designed to create an unforgettable experience.
BLUEY ADVENTURE PARTY
Inspired by the hit Australian TV show, fill your Bluey-themed party with vibrant decorations, engaging games, piñatas, blue and orange balloons, banners, cardboard cutouts and character-inspired activities. Set up a backyard obstacle course or scavenger hunt inspired by the show’s adventures, host a ‘keepy uppy’ balloon challenge and provide themed party bags for a true Bluey experience!
HOMEMADE CAKES AND ECO-FRIENDLY PARTIES WITH EVENTS BY NATHALIE
Sustainability is more important than ever, and the era of single-use, disposable items is over. Local company Events by Nathalie is making it easier for us to throw memorable, eco-friendly parties. Instead of buying single-use party supplies that quickly end up in the bin, Events by Nathalie offers a better solution - hiring everything you need for your event.
From plates, bowls, cutlery, and serving platters to cake tins and decorations, Events by Nathalie ensures you have high-quality items without the waste. Plus, you can even order delicious homemade cakes and sweet cones for that extra touch of sweetness.
E-mail partyevents.by.nathalie@gmail.com for more information.
Create an adventurous jungle atmosphere with vibrant hanging vines, inflatable animals and tropical leaves. Offer animal face painting and safari hunts to excite young explorers. Provide explorer hats, binoculars and maps for a scavenger hunt featuring hidden animal figures. Serve jungle-themed snacks such as ‘monkey bananas,’ ‘lion cupcakes’ and ‘snake pretzel sticks’ for a wild experience little ones will love!
BRILLIANT BRICK BUILDING BIRTHDAY BASHES FOR LEGO FANS
Has your LEGO Fan got something to celebrate? Would they love to build with their friends in a room filled with LEGO? Master Builders Club will provide an immersive and engaging experience for every guest. With 1000’s of bricks, pieces and Minifigures, the team will transform your party venue into a world of creativity. Experienced staff love LEGO play and have been providing memorable events since 2016. Parents often comment on how calm Master Builders Club parties feel and how wonderful it is to see all of the guests involved and engaged. With brick gifts for party bags, all the popular LEGO themes and an extensive collection of LEGO, Master Builders Club can provide an experience that your LEGO fan will never forget.
Master Builders Club do parties for DUPLO fans too! All of the above but with bigger bricks for smaller hands!
Roll out the red carpet for a dazzling, glitzy Hollywoodthemed birthday party. Decorate with gold stars, movie reels and spotlights. Encourage guests to dress as their favourite movie characters and set up a photo booth with fun props like sunglasses and feather boas. Host Best Dancer, Best Actor or Best Costume awards ceremonies, complete with mini awards.
GAMING AND MINECRAFT MANIA
Throw the ultimate gamingthemed party for young gaming enthusiasts, with decorations inspired by popular games like Minecraft, Super Mario or Fortnite. Think pixelated banners, gaming posters and themed tableware. Set up gaming stations, host building challenges and organise a treasure hunt with game-related clues. Kids can craft their own pixel art, enjoy gaming-inspired face painting and compete in mini-tournaments. Complete the celebration with a game controller cake and party favours like stickers, keychains and gaming-themed treats!
Each of these themes offers unique opportunities to create a magical and memorable birthday celebration tailored to your child’s interests. For a comprehensive selection of party supplies and decorations to bring these themes to life, explore the full range of themes at www.partyrama.co.uk
JUNGLE SAFARI ADVENTURE
HOLLYWOOD RED CARPET EVENT
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
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.
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.
Giant Jenga
You can hire Giant Jenga or you could buy it second hand. You can find the rules of play 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.
Cross the Lava
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.
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.
LOVE PARTIES? HATE WASTE ?
Hire eco-friendly party items from Events by Nathalie
Plates, bowls, and cups
Serving plates and jugs
Tablecloths
Decorative items
Props for photo booths
Cake tins
Cakes and sweet cones also available
The Forensic Experience
The Forensic Experience offers forensic science birthday parties run by a real CSI from the Metropolitan Police. Suitable from the age of 8 to adult. All content is age appropriate. Invitations, party bags, CSI suits, badges & 1.5 hours of entertainment provided. For 6 to 30 children. Prices from £280. www.forensicexperience.com
Clubs & Classes Directory
Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: editor@familiestvw.co.uk
DEVELOPMENTAL CLASSES
Master Builders Club Brick Building Workshops for Children
Master Builders Club is a LEGO® & DUPLO® lovers paradise! Our weekend and holiday workshops, after school clubs, birthday parties and nursery/primary school events are designed to provide children with an exciting and captivating experience. We provide 1000’s of LEGO® or DUPLO® bricks in a calm and supportive environment along with the imaginative stimulus to transform a room into a world of creativity. If you are passionate about providing engaging and stimulating play opportunities that nurture your child’s mind, then Master Builders Club is for you! To book your brick building fan a place or to find out more about our events, visit the webite.
BilinguaSing
French, Spanish and Italian classes from age 0-11. Fun sensory music classes with the added bonus of a second language! Trial slots available, as well as sibling discounts. Classes in Wokingham, Bracknell, Charvil, Woodley and other Berkshire locations Monday-Friday. Contact Cari Weston at cari@bilinguasing. com or call 07729261018 for more information.
SPORT
Little Wickets
Cricket fun for kids and toddlers as young as 2½. Year-round, weekly indoor classes in central Reading (and soon elsewhere in Berkshire) run by our enthusiastic and qualified coaches. Get in touch at berkshire@littlewickets.com or on 0118 907 8202, or visit our website at www.littlewickets.com to book.
Puddle Ducks
www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
Our highly trained and fully qualified teachers offer baby and toddler swimming lessons that will teach your child to love the water and swim beautifully. FREE TRIAL available. Various locations/times. Warm pools. Sibling discounts. Contact northhampshireandreading@ puddleducks.com or call 0118 229 3232.
St
Joseph’s Swim School
Fun and engaging swimming lessons, small class sizes in private learning pool following Swim England programme for 4+. FREE onsite parking. Register your interest now! Contact swimschool@sjcr.org.uk, or visit www.sjcr.org.uk/swimschool
Confidence-building weekly drama, dance and singing 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. To book a FREE class visit www.perform.org.uk/try
Progress Youth Theatre Workshops for ages 7-18 involving theatre games, improvisation and skills development, leading to a stage production every year. We are an Arts Award Supporter and also offer LAMDA courses. Classes held at Progress Theatre, Reading.
8am-1pm £26 8am-1pm £26 8am-6pm
Email us to book a FREE taster session. youthgroup@progresstheatre.co.uk progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre
To include your business in our clubs or classes directory, call Lesley on 07863 790592 or email: editor@familiestvw.co.uk
DRAMA
What’s on
May & June 2025
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.
MAY
3 May
Meet Bluey and Bingo at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Thatcham
Come and say g’day to Bluey and Bingo in person. 4-kingdoms.co.uk
3 May
Reading Sailing Club Open Day, Sonning Taster session, barbecue, windsurfing, canoeing and paddleboarding zone. 11am–3pm readingsc.org.uk
3 May
Princesses Unite at Kenton Theatre, Henley
With sparkling costumes, stunning choreography and an interactive experience that invites everyone to sing and dance along. The perfect celebration for little princes and princesses everywhere. 1pm / 4pm thekenton.org.uk
3 May Young Rangers at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A wildlife club for 8–11-year-olds who love nature and wildlife. 2pm-4pm bbowt.org.uk/events
3-4 May
Steps Ahead presents Step Up and Dance at Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury Dancers of Steps Ahead aged 3-18 showcase their talents! arlingtonarts.ticketsolve.com
3-5 May
Jousting Returns to Tumblestone Hollow at Stonor Park, Henley
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating clash of power and endurance as the Knights of Royal England come to Tumblestone Hollow. 10am-4pm stonor.com
4-5 May
Meet Paw Patrol at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Thatcham
The characters will be available to meet at selected times. 4-kingdoms.co.uk
7 May Berkshire Independent Schools Dance Festival at Wellington College, Crowthorne
This festival is an opportunity for dancers from Berkshire Schools to share their work in contemporary, lyrical, jazz, modern, street and commercial dance styles. 7pm wellingtoncollege.ticketsolve.com
8-9 May
Nature Tots at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham Tots can take part in outdoor nature play, stories, trails and crafts. 10am11:30am bbowt.org.uk/events
10-18 May
Reading Walks Festival, various parts of Reading 50 guided walks, which will bring alive the stories, heritage and landscapes of Reading and the surrounding countryside. whatsonreading.com
10 May–1 June
Reading Children’s Festival, various venues in Reading
The festival will open with the annual Forbury Fiesta on Saturday 10 May in the Forbury Gardens. whatsonreading.com
11 May
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham, Reading
Come and help celebrate National Share-a-Story Month looking at books on an environmental theme. Suitable for ages 9-11. 10am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
11 May
VE Day Family Picnic at Shaw House, Newbury Commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with a family picnic, trail and crafts. 11am–3pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
11 May
breathes life into light, water, plants, animals, stars, and the essence of human nature itself. 2pm arlingtonarts.ticketsolve.com
14-17 May
Shrek The Musical at The Hexagon, Reading Get ready to leave your troubles Far Far Away and embark on an thrilling adventure filled with laughter, love and ogre-sized fun! whatsonreading.com
17 May
Peter and the Wolf Children’s Concert at St Laurence’s Church, Reading Narrated by Sarah Smith, hear how Peter and the little bird outwit the wolf in this wonderful tale, where each character is represented by an instrument of the orchestra. 3pm whatsonreading.com
17 May
Community Festival at Reading University
Free one-day festival with music, theatre, street food and many activities to entertain all the family. reading.ac.uk
17 May
Kidical Mass Bike Ride from Reading University Circular ride. 2pm kidicalmassreading.co.uk
17-18 May
Fourbears Fest at various venues, Caversham, Reading Seven family-friendly author events, including creative writing workshops, draw-along sessions and children’s author talks. fourbearsbooks.co.uk
Creation: The Bubble Show at Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury Immerse yourself in this spectacular adventure as the master of bubbles
www.beehiveclub.co.uk For more information visit A week of fun and adventures! A week of fun and adventures! 27th - 30th May 2025 27th - 30th May 2025
Fun and adventures at the Beehive Holiday Clubs!
Join the Beehive Holiday Clubs at Crown Wood and Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools with amazing activities for 3-11-year-olds. These include football, dodgeball, animal encounters, a rock music workshop, face painting and an Italian pizza-making workshop.
Days are 8am-6pm (£45), with morning sessions from 8am1pm (£26).
There is an easy online registration, booking and payment with childcare vouchers is accepted, and there is a 10% sibling discount applied to full-day sessions!
For a May half-term holiday full of fun, creativity and adventures, book The Beehive Holiday Clubs at Crown Wood Primary School and Nine Mile Ride Primary School!
27-30 May 2025
www.beehiveclub.co.uk
www.facebook.com/thebeehivekidsclub MAY HALF-TERM HOLIDAY CLUBS MAY HALF-TERM HOLIDAY CLUBS
Matilda Too the Narrowboat
Is there really a river flowing through the middle of Reading? Can you really go on a boat through the town and look at different things from the river?
Join the friendly crew for a ride on the Matilda Too and float through the middle of the Oracle shopping centre. They also travel to some secret places, like the underside of bridges and Chocolate Island.
Cruises pass several historic sites along the way: Reading Abbey, the biscuit factory and the old prison. Kennet and Avon Canal Trust (KACT) and its local volunteers aim to promote understanding of the history and significance of the canal through Reading and beyond.
Trips start from Star Lane Wharf at the rear of the Queens Road car park (RG1 4AR) on Saturdays and Sundays at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. The trips last about 45 minutes. They will hopefully have started by the beginning of May, but this is dependent on water conditions.
To book in advance, e-mail Matilda.reading@katrust.co.uk or scan the QR code. Bespoke charters are also available for special occasions. Call 07947279704 for details.
Outdoor swimming
Take a dip in the open air now that the weather is warm again: it’s great for the body and the soul! Here are some local open-air swimming spots that cater for families. Please get in touch if you have another favourite that you’d like to tell us about.
Hi5 Open Water Swimming
Reading Lake, Pingewood, Reading, RG30 3UN hi5ski.co.uk/open-water-swimming
This beautiful Victorian lido has family-friendly sessions from time to time; check their website for details.
Don’t forget to say that you saw these places in Families magazine!
21 May
When I Grow Up at St Luke’s Church, Reading
When I Grow Up has been built around songs from Matilda the Musical and will feature performances all about growing up and having the power to create your own story. 6pm whatsonreading.com
22 May
Jungle Jingle at Berkshire Music Trust, Reading
Come and join in with action songs about jungle animals – so get ready to roar like a lion and swing like a monkey! 10am / 11am berksmusictrust.org.uk
22-24 May
Annie at South Hill Park, Bracknell
This all- time classic musical is a must for all the family, with a great soundtrack and fabulous acting parts. southhillpark.org.uk
23 May
Bats at the Museum at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
After a brief talk outside the museum, local bat expert James Shipman will help the group to see several species that emerge at dusk nearby (weather dependent). 9:30pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
24-25 May
Forest of Imagination at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
The showcase will feature new sensory installations co-created by professional artists and schools, incorporating ideas from local community groups. 10am-5pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
24-25 May
Berkshire Youth Training Orchestra Workshop Weekend at Berkshire Music Trust, Reading For orchestral players at approximately Grade 4 to Grade 6 level. berksmusictrust.org.uk
24-27 May
Dino Takeover at Wellington Country Park, Riseley Travel back in time and come face to face with life-sized dinosaurs, from the towering T-Rex to the mighty Triceratops and the gentle giant Emily the Brontosaurus. wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk
24-31 May
Dinosaur Invasion at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Thatcham Experience up-close encounters with friendly dinosaurs, play hide and see with the T-Rex, and dance the day away at the Dino Disco. 4-kingdoms.co.uk
26 May
Fun Dog Show at Berkshire Music Trust, Reading
There will be 12 fun classes to enter as well as a BBQ, stalls, dog-related activities (including Temptation Alley and Musical Sit), plus lots more fun for the whole family! berksmusictrust.org.uk
27 May
Minecraft-themed LEGO Building Workshop at The Heights Primary School, Caversham, Reading
Join a brick-building LEGO adventure to ‘another world.’ 9:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
Join the ever-popular Snow Sisters and their Huggable Snowman and Ice Harvester Friends for this unforgettable experience. 10am / 12:30pm / 3pm jollypopentertainment.co.uk
27 May
Museum Explorers at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
A relaxed morning for children with additional needs and their families to enjoy West Berkshire Museum when there is less hustle and bustle. 10:30am–12pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
27 May
Dantastic Party Time at Kenton Theatre, Henley
This one-hour, high-energy, action-packed party will include dancing, singing, magic, party games, comedy, bubbles, balloons and nonstop audience interaction. 11:30am / 2pm thekenton.org.uk
27 May
Minecraft-themed LEGO Building Workshop at Sonning Common Village Hall
Bring your pickaxe and your imagination and ‘mine’ with Steve and try to survive Zombie and Creeper encounters! 2:30pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk
27-28 May
Family Pond Dipping at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
What can you spot in the pond during this spring dipping workshop? bbowt.org.uk/events
27-29 May
The Baddies at the Corn Exchange Newbury With songs by Joe Stilgoe (Zog and Zog and the Flying Doctors), The Baddies is a wickedly hilarious adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s smash-hit story. cornexchangenew.com
27-30 May
Half Term Art Club at The Base, Newbury Experiment with different art techniques and creative projects! 10am-12pm cornexchangenew.com
27-30 May
Create and Make at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Your child will get to work with professional practitioners to explore the creative arts, develop new skills and make new friends. 10am-4pm cornexchangenew.com
28 May
Family Activity Day at Shaw House, Newbury
With a craft roll, marker pens, stickers, and other craft materials, make and decorate a rainstick, a musical instrument for summoning rain. 10am–3pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
Northcroft Lido
28 May
Minecraft-themed LEGO Building Workshop at Badgemore Primary School, Henley
Don’t worry if you are not a Minecraft fan, as this workshop has something for everyone. 9:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
28 May
Minecraft-themed LEGO Building Workshop at Woodcote Village Hall
Two-hour immersive experience with 1000’s of LEGO bricks, Minifigures and LEGO components for LEGO fans aged 5+. 3pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk
29 May
The Ultimate Bubble Show at Kenton Theatre, Henley Join Ray, International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder and help in his quest to complete the bubble game and make the ultimate bubble. 11am / 2pm thekenton.org.uk
29 May
Minecraft-themed LEGO Building Workshop at Reading Town Hall
Bring your pickaxe and your imagination and ‘mine’ with Steve and try to survive Zombie and Creeper encounters! 11:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
29-31 May
Shrek The Musical Jr at South Hill Park, Bracknell
This family-friendly show brings all your favourite characters from the beloved DreamWorks animated film to the stage, perfect for audiences of all ages! 2pm / 7pm southhillpark.org.uk
30 May
Messy Museum Day at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
Choose one of a small selection of ceramic items to decorate with porcelain pens. 10am–3pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
1 June Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham, Reading Come and look at books full of mystery and mayhem. Suitable for ages 5-8. 10am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
1 June
Top Secret: The Magic of Science Pre-show Workshop at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Become a scientist and create your own magical cloud dough before going to see Top Secret: The Magic of Science. 1pm cornexchangenew.com
1 June
Mama G – The Magic Bookmark at South Hill Park, Bracknell Join ‘everyone’s favourite pantomime dame!’ (Metro) and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Mama G on an award-winning panto adventure for the whole family. 3pm southhillpark.org.uk
1 June Top Secret: The Magic of Science at the Corn Exchange Newbury Fusing the mystery of magic with wondrous and miraculous feats of science, hang on to your seats and experience a non-stop, actionpacked interactive science show
with experiments and magic that will capture the imagination. cornexchangenew.com
5-6 June
Nature Tots at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
Tots can take part in outdoor nature play, stories, trails and crafts. 10am-11:30am bbowt.org.uk/events
7 June Young Rangers at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A wildlife club for 8–11-year-olds who love nature and wildlife. 2pm-4pm bbowt.org.uk/events
8 June
Creation – The Bubble Show at South Hill Park, Bracknell Journey through the awe-inspiring story of the origins of Bubbleland, as it’s brought to life in a dazzling display of soap and water. 2pm southhillpark.org.uk
11-12 June
In The Night Garden Live at The Hexagon, Reading You’ll see all your favourite characters beautifully brought to life with full-size costumes, magical puppets, and enchanting music. whatsonreading.com
13 and 15 June
Berkshire YFC Country Fayre Weekend at Newbury Showground
Plenty to see and do for people of all ages and all walks of life. berksyfc.org.uk
14 June Swallowfield Church Fete
A great afternoon out, with plenty for everyone! 2pm-5pm
14-15 June
Father’s Day at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Thatcham Dads go free on Saturday and Sunday, and there’s a special treat waiting for him in the cafe – a free Yorkie chocolate bar. 4-kingdoms.co.uk
15 June
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham, Reading Come and meet bestselling author Janice Hallett, who will be talking about her new children’s book A Box Full of Murders. 9-11. 10am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
15 June
Top Secret – The Magic of Science at South Hill Park, Bracknell
Top Secret is a fast moving colourful magical science show filled with mystery, suspense, and lots and lots of mess! 2pm southhillpark.org.uk
17-18 June
The Smeds and the Smoos at South Hill Park, Bracknell Soar into space with this Olivier Award-nominated adaptation of the much-loved book by superstar duo Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. southhillpark.org.uk
20-22 June
Berkshire Balloon Festival at Newbury Showground
This festival combines thrilling entertainment, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere that promises fun for the whole family. balloonsandtunesuk.com
21-22 June
The Great British Food Festival at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
Expect a mouth-watering mix of the finest local and regional artisan producers, sizzling street food stalls, craft and gift stalls, children’s entertainment and more, all set to the soundtrack of fantastic live music. 10am-5pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk
22 June
Boys Singing Day at Berkshire Music Trust, Reading Come for a day of learning about your voice, how to sing at that next level and gain knowledge from some of the best male singers in the county. 10am-5pm berksmusictrust.org.uk
22 June
Monster Country Festival at Newbury Showground
This all-day event features thrilling giant monster truck shows, exciting stunt performances, and the chance to take a ride in a monster truck yourself. 12pm-8pm newburyshowground.co.uk
22 June
Kidical Mass Bike Ride in Wokingham
Part of the Wokingham Bikeathon. kidicalmassreading.co.uk
26-29 June
Wild About Reading, around Reading Outdoor events in different parts of Reading. wildaboutrg.com
27 June Swifts in Newbury at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
A talk and walk by local bird expert, Ailsa Claybourn, about these amazing birds who are disappearing from our skies, and how we can help them. 6:30pm-8:30pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
28 June
Moana 2 outdoor cinema at Stonor Park, Henley
The incredible sequel that has been selling out cinema across the world and shattering box office records! 12pm stonor.com
28 June
Royal Philharmonic Orchestra –Noisy Kids 2025 at The Hexagon, Reading
With a lot of hocus pocus and mysterious goings on, you’ll be sure to discover all about the orchestra on an enchanting journey filled with witches, wizards, fairies and magical creatures. 11:30am whatsonreading.com
28-29 June
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. at Shinfield Players Theatre, Reading Shinfield Players’ talented Junior/ Middle Youth Group presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. whatsonreading.com
28-29 June
Hurst Show and Country Fayre
The 2025 Show will feature events and attractions organised across Martineau Green, St Nicholas Primary School and Hurst Village Halls. hurstshow.uk
29 June
The Gruffalo / Stick Man outdoor cinema at Stonor Park, Henley
An amazing family outdoor cinema experience with a double bill of brilliant Julia Donalsdon & Axel Scheffler animations. 2pm stonor.com
29 June
Llama Lookout Family Trail at Shaw House, Newbury
Create your own llama mask and explore the House to find the llamas hidden inside! 11am-2pm westberkshireheritage/whats-on
29 June
Thatcham Family Fun Day
The flagship event of the year is making its grand return to Henwick Worthy Sports Field for an incredible 25th year! 11am-3pm thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk
29 June
Wicked Sing-a-long outdoor cinema at Stonor Park, Henley
A dazzling cinematic adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical, offering a fresh perspective on the Land of Oz. 6pm stonor.com
Plant a tasty veg pot this half-term at Squire’s
Keep little ones entertained this May half-term with Squire’s fun Create & Grow activities from Tuesday 27 to Friday 30 May, 9.30am1.30pm.
Join in some hands-on gardening fun and plant a tasty veg pot - £6.50, to include three vegetable plants, take home and watch them grow. Advanced booking is essential. Book online at squiresgardencentres. co.uk.
There is also a FREE Garden Veg Word Search activity to complete to receive a sticker (no booking required).
Selected centres; check the website for information: www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk
