Families Thames Valley West May/June 2026

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Thames Valley West

IN THIS ISSUE

Parties Summer camps What’s on Issue 142 May/June 2026

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Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West

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WINNER Independent Girls’ School of the Year 2024

Junior School

Open Event Saturday, 16 May Scan the QR code to book Visit for more theabbey.co.uk/events/

Putting Girls First

Open Events Nursery Stay and Play 22 April 09:15 - 10:15 Whole School Open Morning 18 June 09:15 - 11:15

Now welcoming children from age 2 & 3 Co-educational | Day School | Nursery - Year 11*

Book your place

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Families Thames Valley West

Shinfield Road, Reading, Berks RG2 9BL | 0118 9871810 | admissions@crosfields.com *New Sixth Form opening September 2028 Familiesonline.co.uk

CONTENTS

Editor’s Welcome Welcome to our May/June issue! It’s lovely to be able to spend lots of time outside now that the weather is nice and there are loads of local events going on.

The Team:

If you’re in a party mood, check out our parties feature (see pages 10-11), and if you’re in a summery mood, there are lots of articles that put us in mind of all the fun there is to come in the next few months (travel – page 12, summer camps – page 13 and swimming – page 14)!

EDITOR: Lesley Chambers 07863 790592 editor@familiestvw.co.uk SALES SUPPORT: Natasha Gudgeon 07767 893807 natasha@familiespublishing.co.uk

Education is always high on the agenda for parents, and this time we look at both timeless (learning times tables) and modern (digital literacy) issues in education. Please get in touch if you would like to share some school news locally!

DESIGN: Rebecca Carr rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.uk NEXT ISSUE: JULY/AUGUST Booking deadline: 3 June Feature: Summer holidays

Enjoy these bright, colourful months!

IN THIS ISSUE: 4-5

News

6-8

Education

9

Food

10-11

Kids’ parties

12

Travel

13

Summer camps

14-15

Clubs & classes

16-19

What’s On

Lesley Would you like to advertise your business in our next issue?

BOOK TODAY

Call Natasha on 07767 893807 natasha@familiespublishing.co.uk

FREE Magazines!

If your school or family-friendly venue would like to receive FREE copies of Families Thames Valley West magazine, contact us at editor@familiestvw.co.uk

Where is Families Thames Valley West?

HENLEYON-THAMES

SUMMER AT READING REP THEATRE

READING BRACKNELL NEWBURY THATCHAM

WOKINGHAM

We distribute 19,000 copies every issue!

Families Thames Valley West is a franchise of Families Print Ltd of 75 Lisbon Avenue, Twickenham, TW2 5HL. Families is a registered trademark of Families Print Ltd. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. The contents of Families Thames Valley West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Thames Valley West. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but the franchise owner and Families Print Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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WEST END EXPERIENCE JUNIOR AND SENIOR For ages 5 -16 | 27 - 31 July SUMMER ON STAGE (SEN) For ages 12 - 18 | 3 - 7 August

SUPERHEROS ON STAGE For ages 5 - 10 | 10 - 14 August PLAY IN A WEEK For ages 11 - 16 | 10 - 14 August

Book Now readingrep.com 0118 370 2620 Families Thames Valley West

3

NEWS

WIN!

WIN a family day out to Odds Farm Park

Odds Farm Park has teamed up with Families Thames Valley West for one lucky reader to win a family day ticket for four (must include one adult and one child) to the attraction.

Visitors heading to the farm park near Beaconsfield this May half term can mosey on down for a Wild West-themed week as the Bucks-based attraction hosts its annual Half Term Hoedown. This nine-day bonanza kicks off on Saturday 23 May and runs until Sunday 31 May. Headlining the event with their Hoedown Showdown performance will be entertainers Outlaw Oddsocks and Stocking Foot Sal, as the desperadoes enter a line-dancing duel to find the best barn dancer in Buckinghamshire. These brand-new shows take place five times a day throughout the week.

Please email editor@familiestwv.co.uk quoting ‘Odds Farm Park’. The closing date for entry is 31 May 2026. T&Cs apply.

For more information, call 01628 520188, visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk, like and follow @OddsFarmPark on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest news and updates.

Wokingham Repair Café celebrates second anniversary

In April Wokingham Repair Café celebrated its second anniversary, marking a year of community-driven sustainability and waste reduction. Since opening its doors, the Repair Café has become a hub for local residents to bring their broken items for repair, learn new skills and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Over the past two years, the Wokingham Repair Café has repaired nearly 1000 items, including 317 household appliances, 165 items of clothing, 78 computers and displays, 112 clocks and 51 toys - keeping them from landfill and saving the 25,155 kg of CO² emissions that would have been required to manufacture replacements. That’s the same amount of CO² that could be captured by planting over 1100 trees!

Skilled volunteers have dedicated their time and expertise to fixing these items while educating the public on maintenance and repair techniques. The initiative not only reduces waste but also fosters a spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing within the community.

For more information visit wokinghamrepaircafe.uk

As recommended on Daynurseries.co.uk, please visit to see what our parents say

Quality Care and Education

Providing a fully inclusive service for families with children aged 6 weeks to 5 years from 7.30am to 6.30pm

At Green Park the warm and welcoming environment ensures that your child’s individual needs are prioritised, and their interests nurtured.

T: 0118 931 3115 E: greenpark.nursery@childbase.com Green Park Day Nursery, 200 South Oak Way, Reading, RG2 6UQ

Now taking registrations

We’d love to show you around 4

Families Thames Valley West

Family fun with National Children’s Gardening Week This summer, why not get involved in National Children’s Gardening week?

Taking place from 23-31 May in the ‘warm’ half term at the end of May means that pretty much throughout the UK, children can plant all their favourite plants with less fear of weather damage or the need for complicated protective growing.

As well as simply good outdoor fun, gardening has been shown to have many benefits to health and wellbeing including being more physically active and feeling happier and more connected with the natural world.

There are many ways to get involved with National Children’s Gardening Week, from DIY activities at home to attending an event at a local garden centre.

More info: www.childrensgardeningweek.co.uk

Scan me for full nursery details

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NEWS

Love your local area and inspire the next generation You may have noticed that not everybody puts their rubbish in the bin, which often generates irritation and can lead to copycat behaviour. However, being a part of the solution rather than a part of the problem is actually really satisfying!

Over the last few months my eight-year-old daughter and I have been joining in with locally-organised litter picking sessions at the weekend. This may sound like an odd activity to do with the family, but we both find it satisfying on many levels. It’s wonderful to be part of a positive force within the community, and the group is always particularly happy to see a member of the younger generation helping out.

At the end of the session the area looks tidy, we have done some outdoor exercise and connected with other members of the community, all of which are a great mental health boost!

I found our local litter picking group on Facebook.

The website www.keepbritaintidy.org may also help you get going.

Water Fest and KA75 challenge for youth groups

Seventy-five years ago, the Kennet & Avon canal was in a sorry state. The authorities decided to close it down, and it might have been lost forever except that a group of stubborn, farsighted individuals thought otherwise. They protested and campaigned, and volunteers began to restore the broken locks. In 1990 it was fully restored and reopened by the Queen.

These events will be celebrated at this year’s Water Fest in Reading on Saturday 27 June, where you will also find boat trips, a duck race, stalls and music.

Autism and ADHD Assessment Clinic

NICE guideline compliant multidisciplinary assessments for children and adults.

Average wait time of 2 weeks.

Fully qualified, experienced assessors.

Established 2012. Professional, reputable, widely accepted.

A special boat will be going the full length of the waterway from Bristol to Reading during the month of June, and celebration events will be taking place all along the route. For instance, at Crofton the beam engines will be in steam; this is an exciting and fascinating machine, especially the mechanism of metal rods that controls it.

You can also download a package explaining the youth challenge for which badges are available.

To find out about the KA75 celebrations and the youth challenge check out https://katrust.org.uk/ka75

Familiesonline.co.uk

Families Thames Valley West

5

EDUCATION

Top tips for learning times tables – and why it’s still important

By Zuzu Jordan In an age of AI, calculators and voice assistants, it is easy to question whether children still need to memorise times tables.

After all, technology can provide an instant answer. However, fluency in multiplication remains one of the most important foundations in mathematics. When children know their times tables automatically, they free up brainpower for reasoning, problem-solving and tackling more complex concepts such as fractions, division and algebra.

In England, children begin exploring multiplication in Key Stage 1 through grouping, sharing and repeated addition. By Year 2, they learn the two, five and ten times tables. In Year 3 and Year 4, they extend this knowledge to all tables up to twelve x twelve, with the national Multiplication Tables Check taken at the end of Year 4. Schools now combine conceptual understanding with recall practice, using arrays (visual models organising objects into equal rows and columns to represent multiplication equations), practical resources and pattern spotting, alongside short, regular retrieval exercises.

Even with AI, instant recall matters. A child who quickly knows that 6 × 8 = 48 can focus on solving a multi-step problem instead of getting stuck at the first calculation. Technology should enhance learning, not replace core knowledge.

One of the most effective ways to support learning is to match practice to your child’s preferred way of learning.

For those who prefer to listen and learn, rhythm and repetition are powerful. Multiplication songs, chants and short rhymes can make facts stick. Creating a simple poem for tricky tables or setting facts to a familiar tune can transform learning into something memorable. Voice assistants such as Alexa or similar devices can also be used to fire quick questions for a fun, quizstyle challenge.

For those who like to learn by doing, try times tables snap cards, scavenger hunts where children shoot a Nerf dart at the correct answer or stick multiplication questions on the stairs so they solve one on each step. Jumping to the correct answer written in chalk outside or building arrays with Lego can also reinforce understanding through action.

For those who are drawn to colour and layout, use coloured multiplication charts, highlight patterns and encourage children

AI can also be a creative ally. Parents can use AI tools to generate personalised resources that reflect a child’s interests.

For a football fan, create times tables cards featuring their favourite team colours or badge alongside multiplication facts. For a child who loves animals or space, design themed quizzes or printable posters. Personal relevance increases engagement.

Whatever the method, short and frequent practice is key. Five focused minutes each day is more effective than a long weekly session. Isolate tricky tables for a few days before mixing them back in.

Encourage children to explain how they know an answer, not just say it.

Most importantly, keep it positive. Confidence builds fluency.

Times tables are not about racing against a machine; they are about equipping children with mental tools that will support them throughout their education. In a world shaped by AI, foundational knowledge is what enables children to use technology thoughtfully and independently.

Zuzu is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for eighteen years and is Director of Arnett International. For FREE resources and tips, find her on Instagram @edumate_uk

Mathematical language

Times tables grab bag

The language surrounding multiplication is crucial for children’s understanding. Words such as groups of, lots of, times, multiplied by and product, all describe the same operation in different contexts.

A well-stocked times table homework grab bag should include quick, practical resources that make learning easy and engaging.

Children also need to recognise related vocabulary including factor, multiple and array. Understanding that 3 x 4 means three groups of four helps build conceptual clarity.

Precise mathematical language supports reasoning, problemsolving and explaining answers.

When children confidently use and understand multiplication vocabulary, they develop deeper number sense and stronger mathematical communication skills overall.

6

to notice number relationships. For example, all multiples of five end in zero or five and the digits in the nine times table follow a clear pattern. Seeing these connections reduces the need to memorise each fact separately.

Families Thames Valley West

Add a set of flashcards, a small, laminated multiplication chart and a whiteboard with pen for quick practice. Include times table snap cards or simple dice for multiplication games.

A printed list of key facts for focus tables is helpful, along with coloured pens for highlighting patterns.

Finally, add a small reward chart to celebrate effort and consistent progress.

Familiesonline.co.uk

EDUCATION

School Open Days

May-June 2026

Open days may need pre-booking. Please check before visiting.

Crosfields School Reading, RG2 9BL 0118 987 1810 crosfields.com Wed 6 May: 9:15am Nursery stay and play Wed 13 May: 9:15am Reception taster Thu 4 June: 9am Year 7 experience day (Wonderful Wizards theme) Thu 11 June: 9am Year 7 experience day (Wonderful Wizards theme) Leighton Park School Reading, RG2 7ED 0118 987 9608 leightonpark.com Fri 1 May: 9am Open morning

Growing with Leighton Park Pupils from Leighton Park are growing their creativity and sustainability at Kew Gardens on the Year 8 art trip! The group was inspired by the Marianne North Gallery’s exotic paintings and by the vibrant mandalas of the Singh Twins before exploring the iconic Palm House and the Treetop Walkway.

While immersed in nature, students created circular poems inspired by the sounds and sights around them, took part in a fun origami challenge, crafting paper parrots before heading to The Hive, an immersive outdoor installation highlighting the essential role of bees in sustaining biodiversity.

Oratory Prep School Goring Heath, Reading, RG8 7SF 0118 984 4511 oratoryprep.so.uk Fri 8 May: All school open day

As previous winners of the ISA Award for Pupil Personal Development, Leighton Park offers an extensive programme of trips across all years ensuring opportunities for holistic education and personal growth. Find out more at an Open Morning on Friday 1 May.

St Joseph’s College Upper Redlands Road, Reading, RG1 5JT 0118 966 1000 sjcr.org.uk Wed 13 May: 9:30am Senior open morning Thu 4 June: 8:30am Senior experience day Fri 5 June: 9:30am Stay and play Thu 11 June: 8:30am Senior experience day

www.leightonpark.com

The Abbey Junior School Reading, RG2 7AR The Abbey Senior School Reading, RG1 5DZ Junior School: 0118 931 3111, Senior School: 0118 987 2256 theabbey.co.uk Sat 9 May: 9:30am The Abbey Senior School and Sixth Form open morning Sat 16 May: 9:30am AbbeyFest: Junior School open day Tue 9 June: 9am The Abbey Junior School taster day Mon 15 June: 8:30am Sixth form taster day Wed 17 June: 8am Senior school taster day Mon 22 June: 9:30am Senior school and sixth form working open day

Ages 3+

Alphablocks Bundles Giveaway

Including: Mini Tablet, Character Playset, Word Builder, Matchums, Jigword

Worth £67

Use QR code or apply at www.familiesmag.co.uk/go Familiesonline.co.uk

T&Cs apply

Families Thames Valley West

7

EDUCATION

Supporting digital literacy at home

By Erin Miller In an era where banning children from smartphones is becoming increasingly normalised, the idea of actively promoting digital literacy at home can seem counterintuitive.

However, digital literacy is about far more than simply knowing how to operate a device. It goes beyond technical skills to encompass the ability to engage with digital technologies safely, critically and thoughtfully. This includes knowing how to find and evaluate information online, communicate effectively in digital spaces, protect personal data and privacy and recognise risks such as misinformation, manipulation and harmful content.

Just as parents and schools teach children how to stay safe in the physical world, they must also teach them how to think critically about what they see in order to stay safe in the digital world.

Getting your child to think critically. To help children begin evaluating online information critically, teach them how to: Check the source. Show your child how to find who created the content and whether it comes from a trusted organisation, a qualified expert or an unknown account. Teach them to look for an About page and to be wary of anonymous profiles.

Tell fact from opinion. Help them look for evidence such as facts, data or reliable links. Explain the difference between evidence and personal belief.

Recognise emotional manipulation. Teach them to notice when content triggers strong emotions like fear, anger or excitement and encourage them to pause before reacting or sharing.

Question headlines. Show them that headlines are often exaggerated and that they should read beyond the title.

Check the date. Teach them how to spot outdated content that is reshared as if it were new.

Cross-check information. Encourage them to look for the same story on other reputable sites and to be cautious if only one unfamiliar source is reporting it.

Have open conversations at home It is unrealistic to pretend technology will not play a major role in your child’s world. Talk about it: ask your children what they enjoy online and what they find challenging. By building trust it’s more likely they will seek support if something goes wrong.

It is also important to discuss how algorithms work. Help children understand that their devices are tracking their behaviour and using that information to shape what they see.

Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.

Teaching children to protect their privacy Here are some practical tips.

Names. Show your child how to choose usernames that do not include their real name, birthday, school or location.

Personal details in photos. Teach them to check images for clues like school logos, street signs, house numbers, car number plates or landmarks before posting photos.

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Turn off location sharing. Show them where location settings are on their device and in apps and teach them to keep location services off unless there is a reason to use them.

Limit who can contact them. Teach them how to set accounts to private, restrict messaging to friends only and avoid accepting requests or messages from people they don’t know.

Use passwords properly. Teach them how to create strong passwords, avoid reusing the same password across apps and understand why passwords should never be shared.

Check app permissions. Teach them to review what an app needs to work, eg camera, microphone, contacts, photos – and tell them to turn off anything the app doesn’t require.

Familiesonline.co.uk

FOOD

Why words matter when we talk to children about food

By Alicia Eaton Most parents spend a lot of time thinking about what their children eat and far less time thinking about how they talk about it. Yet the words we use around food often shape a child’s relationship with eating far more powerfully than the food itself.

Children don’t just learn about food from what’s on their plate.

They absorb the surrounding emotional tone, meaning and messages long before they understand nutrition. Over time, those messages quietly influence how they feel about food and how they listen to their own bodies.

Much of the language we use around food is inherited.

Phrases such as ‘finish everything on your plate,’ ‘that’s a treat’ or ‘you can have pudding if you eat your dinner.’ They’re often said automatically, in busy family moments, with good intentions.

But language has an impact. Children’s developing minds are designed to absorb everything in their environment - not just language and manners but beliefs, fears, behaviours and emotional responses. So they don’t just hear our words, they internalise our attitudes as blueprints for life. Many adults who struggle with weight and relationships with food can pinpoint episodes in their childhood that left a mark and persistently contribute to the problem.

Which means that if we joke about our weight, skip meals, obsess over calories or equate food with guilt or control, we’re teaching those same scripts to our children, even if we never say them out loud.

Growing up in an environment where food is repeatedly linked to behaviour, reward, comfort or control, children can start to lose touch with their own internal signals. Hunger becomes something to override, negotiate or ignore. Fullness becomes

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something to push past and eating becomes driven by habit, emotion or expectation.

Labels matter too. Calling a child ‘fussy,’ ‘greedy’ or ‘difficult at mealtimes’ can quickly become part of how they see themselves.

Children are remarkably quick to live up to labels, even when they don’t truly fit.

Another common issue is pressure. Even gentle pressure: ‘just one more bite,’ ‘eat it for mummy,’ ‘you liked it yesterday’ can interfere with appetite awareness. Children become less able to tune into what their body is telling them. This can lead to power struggles at the table, anxiety around food or eating that feels disconnected from genuine hunger.

What helps instead is neutrality. Neutral language keeps food emotionally calm. It separates eating from behaviour and removes moral judgement from meals. This doesn’t mean being permissive or giving up structure - quite the opposite. Children thrive on predictability. Knowing when meals and snacks will happen helps them relax and trust that food is reliably available, without needing to negotiate or graze constantly.

Neutral language also supports curiosity. Instead of persuading or labelling, parents can describe, observe and invite reflection: ‘how does your tummy feel?’ or ‘does that taste how you expected?’

A healthy relationship with food isn’t created through rules or restriction but through the unconscious messages we pass on when we shop, cook, sit and eat round the family dinner table.

Today’s families face challenges that previous generations never had to navigate. With ultra-processed foods dominating the supermarket shelves and diet talk reaching our children at ever younger ages, it’s going to be even more important that the conversations we have at home foster healthy eating habits for life.

Alicia Eaton (www.aliciaeaton.co.uk) is a Harley Street-based behaviour change psychotherapist and the author of Mind How Your Kids Eat, which explores how everyday habits and language shape children’s long-term relationship with food.

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9

KIDS’ PARTIES

Decoration inspiration for your child’s party

By Jodie Herron Planning a children’s birthday party is all about creating a fun, exciting atmosphere and the right decorations can completely change the look and feel of a room. Whether your child loves colourful characters, sporty set-ups or a bit of sparkle, there are so many creative options to choose from. Here are some ideas.

WICKED

For children who love magic and musicals, a Wicked-inspired theme brings a touch of drama and sparkle. Go for deep green and pink colour schemes, glittery stars and whimsical props to create an enchanted party setting.

With themed tableware and decorations like broomsticks and witch hats, you can design a scene that feels theatrical and imaginative; perfect for games and fantasy fun!

HELLO KITTY

One of the sweetest trending party themes lately is Hello Kitty. Adorable decorations like Hello Kitty foil or printed latex balloons, colourful banners and matching tableware create a cute, co-ordinated setup.

Featuring her classic design (including her iconic bow!), along with her equally adorable friends, the decorations for this theme deliver a fun, cute feel that’s perfect for birthday celebrations.

FOOTBALL For sports fans, a footballthemed party creates instant excitement. Use green table runners to mimic a pitch, add football banners and cluster balloons in team colours for a stadium feel. Scatter football confetti across tables and include matching plates and cups to complete the look. This theme works indoors or outdoors and pairs perfectly with simple games like penalty shootouts or target challenges to keep the fun active.

HARRY STYLES/ DISCO THEME Combine pop star flair with retro disco style for a party full of music and movement.

Think sequins, metallic fringes, disco balls and bold colour splashes to transform your space into a mini dance floor. Star-shaped balloons and shimmering banners add glamour, while neon accents keep the vibe playful. This theme works brilliantly with a party playlist, Harry Styles cutout and simple dance games, encouraging guests to show off their moves and celebrate in sparkling style.

For all these decorations, accessories and many more, visit www.partyrama.co.uk 10 Families Thames Valley West

PAW PATROL A Paw Patrol-themed party is always a hit, especially with a brand-new movie arriving later this year. Complement the theme by featuring favourite pups like Chase, Marshall and Skye on hanging decorations, banners and more. For a brilliant focal point among matching balloons and cardboard cut outs? Try a Paw Patrol piñata.

STITCH For a tropical twist, Stitch decorations bring playful island vibes to any birthday.

Bright colours, Hawaiian-style garlands, palm leaves and bold banners set the scene. Consider creating a themed backdrop with floral details and character cut-outs for a fun photo area.

Co-ordinated plates, cups and balloons tie everything together and you can use small themed favours to complete the look. This theme works especially well for summer parties but can bring sunshine to indoor celebrations all year round.

PRINCESS & FAIRY TALES A princess and fairy tale theme instantly transforms any space into a magical kingdom. Soft pastel colours, gold accents and plenty of sparkle create a dreamy atmosphere.

Castle backdrops, crown-shaped balloons and glittery banners make eye-catching decorations, while themed plates and cups tie everything together. Add tulle table skirts, star confetti and a throne-style chair for the birthday child to create a perfect photo spot. Wand or tiara party favours double as fun accessories and keepsakes, making this a theme full of enchantment.

GAMING THEME Gaming-themed decor is a favourite for older kids. Pixel-style banners, bright colour blocking and LED string lights can create an immersive atmosphere inspired by popular video games. Add controller-printed tableware or character posters to complete the setup. You can even feature a leaderboard-style photo backdrop or host a mini tournament to tie decorations and activities together.

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KIDS’ PARTIES T&Cs apply

GIVEAWAY

Paint Pop Creation Station Award-winning table-top easel that helps your mini artist create masterpieces

Brilliant brick building birthday’s 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 they will transform your party venue into a world of creativity.

The 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 also do parties for DUPLO fans too! All of the above but with bigger bricks for smaller hands! info@masterbuildersclub.co.uk www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk

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Double sided 6 chunky Paint Pop sticks and paper included Ages 3+

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All aboard The Beehive Express Party Play Bus! From London double decker bus to soft play party bus, The Beehive Express Party Play Bus brings the party to your door!

Inside is a mobile soft-play adventure, delivering unforgettable celebrations straight to your doorstep with a slide, ball pits, climbing frames, tunnels and crawl spaces, soft shapes and blocks and sensory lights.

Perfect for birthdays, weddings and events, the bus is designed for children aged 3–11 to play, explore and make magical memories! With space for up to 15 children at a time and a minimum of 2-hour hire, it’s a safe, unique, and hassle-free party experience. The party play bus can travel to events in locations throughout Berkshire, Hampshire, Buckinghamshire and Surrey in a 20-mile (approx) radius from its Bracknell base. PLUS, Beehive also offers bus hire with a party venue at Nine Mile Ride Primary School, bringing the fun of the bus with more space to host a party. beehiveclub.co.uk/the-beehive-bus Familiesonline.co.uk

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11

TRAVEL

Money saving apps for your summer holiday

By Andrew Campbell Travelling during the school summer holidays can get expensive, especially if you have a big family. Luckily there are plenty of apps to help you save money, whether you’re going overseas or planning a more modest road trip in the UK. Everyone knows about Airbnb, TripAdvisor and Uber but there are loads of other brilliant travel apps worth downloading. Best of all, they’re free to use so get them before your next trip.

AirHelp (Apple App Store; Google Play)

PetrolPrices (Apple App Store; Google Play)

Flying can be stressful if flights are delayed, cancelled or overbooked. AirHelp checks if you’re owed compensation for flight issues, including lost or damaged luggage. Just upload your boarding pass and see if you’re eligible for up to £350 per passenger (EU rules).

A UK-focused app that helps drivers find the cheapest fuel near their location. Users can compare petrol, diesel and premium fuel prices at thousands of stations nationwide. The app provides upto-date pricing, map views and directions to the selected station.

PetrolPrices also allows users to receive alerts when prices drop in their area, helping save on fuel costs.

JustPark (Apple App Store; Google Play) A UK-based app that lets users find, reserve and pay for parking spaces in advance. It connects drivers with private driveways, commercial car parks and on-street parking. The app provides real-time availability, pricing and directions, helping users save time and often money. JustPark operates across the UK and in some European cities.

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Ages 3+

Learn With Peppa Pig Toy Bundle Includes

Peppa’s Laugh & Learn Laptop Peppa’s Laugh & Learn Alphaphonics Count With Peppa Peppa’s Phonic Alphabet

Worth £87 Answer Peppa’s questions about letters, numbers, shapes, musical instruments, colours and her family and friends Includes music and songs from the shows and a wide variety of fun activities

Use QR code or apply at www.familiesmag.co.uk/go 12 Families Thames Valley West

Ideal for booking last-minute hotel accommodation. Users can search for hotels, compare prices and access exclusive discounts on unsold rooms. Filters allow sorting by price, location, rating or amenities. Listings include ratings, reviews and photos. The app is available in the UK and major cities across Europe, Asia and North America. Payment and booking happen within the app, with customer support for reservations.

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HotelTonight (Apple App Store; Google Play)

A comprehensive travel planning app and website that helps users find the best ways to get from one place to another, anywhere in the world. It compares flights, trains, buses, ferries and driving routes, showing estimated times and costs for each option. The app includes maps, booking links and detailed connections, making multi-modal journeys easy to plan.

Hiyacar (Apple App Store; Google Play) A UK-based peer-to-peer car sharing app that connects drivers with local car owners for short-term rentals, much like Airbnb for accommodation. Users can search for nearby vehicles, book instantly and unlock cars using the app’s keyless technology.

Insurance is included for every rental and the platform covers many UK cities. It’s a flexible, cost-effective alternative to traditional car hire companies.

Citymapper (Apple App Store; Google Play) Save money by using public transport efficiently. Citymapper is a public transport app that helps users plan journeys in cities around the world. It provides real-time information on buses, trains, trams, subways, walking, cycling and ride-hailing options.

The app compares routes, shows travel times and disruptions and offers step-by-step navigation. Citymapper covers major cities in the UK, Europe, North America and other regions.

WiFi Map (Apple App Store; Google Play) Whether you’re travelling at home or abroad, using your phone without WiFi can rack up hefty roaming charges. That’s where WiFi Finder comes in. This app helps you locate free WiFi hotspots across Asia, Europe, North America and South America. Even if your phone plan doesn’t hit you with roaming fees, it’s still incredibly useful - you’ll know exactly where you can connect your tablet or laptop without paying a penny.

T&Cs apply Familiesonline.co.uk

SUMMER CAMPS

Holiday day camp essentials

By Tanni Haas You’ve found a great camp for your kids, signed them up and are getting them ready for all the fun ahead. But what should you pack for them every day? Drawing on my own experiences as a seasoned parent of day campers, I’ve compiled the following list of things.

Bag. Buy a lightweight yet durable and roomy bag pack, made of fabric or nylon. It’s useful if it has many compartments, so that you can put different items in different places, including an outside pocket for the water bottle.

Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. If they’re spending much or all of the day outside, shades and a hat will keep them cool and comfortable. Teach your kids how to apply sunscreen properly without getting it in their eyes, ears or mouth. Apply it in the morning before they leave for camp and encourage them to reapply during the day.

Food and snacks. Pack one or two sandwiches and some healthy snacks in case they get hungry before and/or after lunch. Put all the food in a thermal bag so that it stays cool and fresh all day.

Hand sanitiser and wet wipes. Let’s face it: kids get dirty, especially if they’re spending a lot of time outside. Pack some hand sanitiser and wet wipes and instruct them on how to use them properly and frequently.

Plastic or Ziploc bags. Pack a couple of plastic bags or, even better, Ziploc bags - great for any wet items like swimsuits or towels.

Prescription medication. If your kids are young, give the camp organisers any prescription medication they need. Older kids

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may be happy to carry the medication themselves.

Swimming gear. Many day camps include trips to the pool or other ‘wet’ activities. Always have swimming gear packed.

Water bottle. Pack a reusable water bottle, ideally in an easily accessible compartment. Put the bottle in the freezer overnight so that it stays cool.

Hoody or light rain jacket. It can get chilly – and, of course, it may rain. Pack a lightweight windbreaker or a hoody, depending on the weather forecast. … and a little surprise. Put a little surprise item (a favourite snack or an I-love-you note) in a place where you know your kids will look, like in their lunch box. It’ll put a smile on their faces and ensure they have a great day.

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences and Disorders at The City University of New York.

Families Thames Valley West 13

CLUBS & CLASSES

Getting kids swimming: tackling the barriers

By Dr Meredith Elkins According to Sport England, less than half of children meet the recommended sixty minutes of daily activity recommended by the Chief Medical Officer, highlighting the need to build movement habits in children from an early age.

Options for organised sport are limited before the age of 5 with the National Curriculum for PE setting basic skills expectations (running, throwing, catching) between 5 and 7 years. Yet swimming is accessible from infancy, filling that gap and establishing lifelong, healthy habits early.

Swimming is the perfect activity for all children, from infancy onwards. Experts agree that swimming improves cognitive functioning and water confidence, strengthens key muscle groups, supports better co-ordination, sleep and appetite and all the while boosts bonding between parents and children.

Yet if swimming is the ideal activity for young children, why can only twenty seven percent of Year 1 and 2 children swim twenty five metres unaided?

What is stopping parents signing up to classes?

Time pressures, travel, childcare and lost work hours are key obstacles. With the average UK working week at more than forty hours plus commutes, finding time is tough.

Cost is another big barrier. Lesson fees, childcare for siblings, kit expectations and cancellation fees - especially when illness strikes - add up quickly, according to many parents on forums like Mumsnet.

Then there’s availability. A recent Total Fitness survey of over two thousand UK adults found that one third of parents struggle to find pre-school swimming lessons and suitable facilities for their children.

Dean Zweck at Total Fitness says: ‘Fitting swimming into a busy schedule can feel hard but building water confidence early lays the foundation for lifelong fitness and wellbeing. Checking out classes early helps set children up for a positive relationship with movement for life.’

Swimming for life Swimming helps children stay active, social and confident and offers a valuable screen-free alternative for later years. Campaigns like National Learn to Swim Day and #LoveSwimming are useful to remind busy parents that helping little ones dive into swimming early is one of the best gifts you can give them. It is also the only sport which could one day save your child’s life.

Swimwell ‘Confidence in Water’

Can you and your family Swimwell? Do you have Confidence in Water? There’s a new swim school in town!

Joanna Lay was the former owner of a local swim school from 2019-2024. After achieving national recognition such as Swim England Swim School of the Year 2022, she found herself being torn between running the swim school and working with the Institute of Aquaphobia (IOA) – helping people who cannot swim and are scared of water; the IOA won.

During her time with the IOA she found a clear connection between neurodiversity, SEND and aquaphobia. Fear of water was common in these groups.

The new swim school ‘Swimwell – Confidence in Water’ will combine current swim teaching methods with those required to be advanced aquaphobia coaches. These combined skills can be used for all ages and lesson structures.

For some time, Jo has been concerned that SEND and neurodiverse children, along with those with physical conditions and challenges, are being integrated into mainstream swimming lessons where they may not be able to ‘achieve’ like their peers are able to. Is this setting those children, who may require that extra support, up for failure?

Shouldn’t their swimming lessons be made to fit them – not the other way around?

This approach is how Jo sees the future of swimming. She has asked herself, what reasonable amendments to routine swimming lessons can I make?

• • • •

Swimming sessions, not lessons – this removes the pressure Allow ear defenders to be worn Parent support in the water If the supporting parent isn’t comfortable in water, Swimwell will run programmes to help them first!

Prior booking will be available online for a seamless experience – just right for today’s busy world. There will be lesson descriptions enabling you to choose the correct class. State of the art software, direct debit payments, plus online awarding of certificates: how modern!

As before, parents will receive monthly bulletins. Jo sees the importance in communicating with parents – they know their children. If you come back from holiday and tell her their swimming has improved, she will listen! Water safety first, swimming later.

Many swimming schools provide free assessments and baby swim programmes often have expert-run programmes in warmer water, designed to build confidence gradually, both for little ones and their parents.

Jo is an experienced, inspiring teacher who believes that change is good and some rules are made to be broken! So different – but better! It will be a family-run venture – only their dog and cat will not be poolside!

With thanks to Total Fitness (www.totalfitness.co.uk) for this article. Total Fitness runs health clubs across the country, offering free swimming assessments and Family Pool Passes.

support@swimwellnow.com www.swimwellnow.com

14 Families Thames Valley West

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CLUBS & CLASSES

Clubs & Classes Directory

Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: editor@familiestvw.co.uk DEVELOPMENTAL CLASSES

SPORT

DRAMA

Puddle Ducks

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 website. www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk

Puddle Ducks teaches children from birth to 10 years, to swim independently, confidently and to love and respect the water. Classes are 30 minutes long, the optimum amount of time that children of all ages able to concentrate and can handle the physical workout. Weekend and weekday lessons available. Free trials (t&c apply) and sibling discount offered.

Contact northhampshireandreading@ puddleducks.com or call 0118 229 3232. www.puddleducks.com/local-teams/northhampshire-and-reading

Reading Sailing Club

A welcoming sailing club where children can learn to sail, build confidence and enjoy being on the water. Offering youth sailing sessions for beginners and younger members, it’s a great way to develop new skills and make friends in a safe, supportive environment.

For further information/free trial session, email enquiries@readingsc.org.uk or visit www.readingsc.org.uk

St Joseph’s Swim School

Fun and engaging swimming lessons, small class sizes in private learning pool following Swim England programme for ages 4+. FREE onsite parking. Register your interest now!

Visit www.sjcr.org.uk/swimschool/ or email swimschool@sjcr.org.uk for more info.

Perform

Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. These are 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. 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. Email to book a FREE taster session. youthgroup@progresstheatre.co.uk https://progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre

Reading Rep Theatre

From cosy storytimes for little ones to spirited youth theatre groups, Reading Rep invites children to learn, play and grow in a real working theatre, guided by professional actors and industry leaders who nurture confidence, imagination and a love of storytelling.

Find out more at readingrep.com Feature your club or class in our next issue, call Lesley on 07863 790592, or email editor@familiestvw.co.uk

MAY HALF-TERM HOLIDAY CLUBS TERRY PRICE SEED OF PLAY

S C O O T E R WOODWORKING* WORKSHOP* ARTS & CRAFTS

BRAMBLES ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS TOYS & GAMES OUTSIDE PLAYTIME

K-POP DANCE WORKSHOP

Confidence

Building 26thth May - 29thth May

8am-6pm

Ages 3-11 yrs

£45 *+£5

at Crown Wood & Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools “My daughter loved her time with you and will definitely be back! Thank you for organising some fab days.” Sarah, Facebook comment

www.beehiveclub.co.uk/holidayclubs Familiesonline.co.uk

FUN

Drama, dance & singing classes designed to help 4–12 year olds shine Crowthorne, Goring, Henley, Reading, Twyford or Wokingham To book visit perform.org.uk/try

TRY A

FREE CLASS

Families Thames Valley West 15

WHAT’S ON

What’s on

FAMILY THEATRE

We have so many brilliant local theatres that put on a wide variety of productions aimed at families. Take a look at what’s on at the theatre in May and June 2026.

MAY 10 May Bippo’s Circus Adventure at South Hill Park, Bracknell Get ready for a laughter-packed extravaganza with Bippo’s Circus Adventure! Starring Bippo the Clown, one of the UK’s top circus clowns for over 26 years, this family-friendly theatre show promises to be a whirlwind of hilarity and heart-pounding circus stunts. 2:30pm southhillpark.org.uk 17 May The Night Sky Show at The Hexagon, Reading Bringing his successful sell out and highly praised show.

Astronomer and author Adrian West (aka VirtualAstro) presents a glorious visual and thoughtprovoking experience for everyone that looks up and wonders. Using amazing big screen visual effects, The Night Sky Show will take you on a fantastic and epic journey across the cosmos from our celestial back yard. 6pm whatsonreading.com 23 May K-Pop All Stars Tribute at The Hexagon, Reading Ride the global K-pop wave with K-Pop All Stars - the explosive live celebration of the music, the artists, and the culture taking over the world. Feel the power of stadium-sized anthems, razor-sharp choreography, and a cast that delivers every beat with precision and passion.

3pm/7:30pm whatsonreading.com 26 May The Spectacular Science Show at The Kenton, Henley Mark Thompson’s award-winning Spectacular Science Show is celebrating its 10th anniversary year of touring UK theatres. Join him as he celebrates with all his favourite experiments. 2:30pm thekenton.org.uk 26 May-13 Sep Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Watermill Theatre, Newbury Soar far above the clouds and across the seas with a fantasmagorical new Watermill Theatre production of the iconic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Delve into the hearts and imaginations of eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, his children Jeremy and Jemima, and Truly Scrumptious as they set off on an audacious adventure in their car with the big personality. watermill.org.uk

16 Families Thames Valley West

27 May Take Flight at the Corn Exchange Newbury Take Flight is a stunning aerial theatre show for 0-2-year-olds and their grown-ups. This multisensory, interactive show ignites the imagination and curiosity of babies who are then invited into the space with the performers to explore the baby safe set and props, including having a swing in the silks. 11am/1pm/3pm cornexchangenew.com

The Tiger Who Came to Tea at South Hill Park,

28 May Jungle Adventure at Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury Embark on an unforgettable journey with Ranger Andy as he sets off on a daring quest to return the legendary Akiki bird to its secret home deep in the heart of the enchanted jungle!

Along the way, you’ll encounter wild wonders, magical creatures, and Andy’s hilarious, whirlwind conservation antics. arlingtonarts.ticketsolve.com

handmade instrument inventions with steel-drum, ping-pong balls, typewriter, toys and everyday objects all in the space of one short set. 2pm whatsonreading.com

29 May Sir Charlie Stinky Socks - PreShow Workshop at the Corn Exchange Newbury Get creative in a hands-on fun workshop before the show begins.

Come and create your own Sir Charlie Stinky Socks themed craft to take into the show! 1pm cornexchangenew.com

30 and 31 May West Berkshire Ballet School Presents Cinderella at Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury This enchanting children’s ballet retells the beloved story of Cinderella through graceful movement, colourful characters, and dazzling imagination. arlingtonarts.ticketsolve.com

29 May Sir Charlie Stinky Socks and the Really Big Adventure at the Corn Exchange Newbury Step into the world of Sir Charlie Stinky Socks, where nothing is quite what it seems and a really big adventure is about to begin.

Based on the best-selling picture book by Kristina Stephenson, and created to mark the 20th anniversary of this much-loved, modern-day classic, the show features live music, glorious puppets, interactive storytelling, magical props and more laughs than you can waft away with a stinky sock. 2pm cornexchangenew.com

31 May Dino Tales: Jurassic Rescue Pre-Show Workshop at the Corn Exchange Newbury Get creative in a hands-on fun workshop before the show begins.

Come and create your own Dino Tales themed craft to take into the show! 12:30pm cornexchangenew.com

29 May Basil Brush Family Magic Show at South Hill Park, Bracknell If you’re going be entertained by someone’s right arm covered in fake fur, you could do a lot worse than this sly fox. Basil Brush is cheeky, irreverent, charming, naughty, quick-witted, scheming and foxy, but at the same time he’s kind, caring and affectionate. 2pm southhillpark.org.uk 30 May ICHI + Support at South Street Arts Centre, Reading ICHI, from Nagoya in Japan, takes the notion of a one-man band to new limits, combining his quirky

31 May Dino Tales: Jurassic Rescue at the Corn Exchange Newbury With a captivating story and an entire herd of pre-historic beasts, Dino Tales is an unforgettable family adventure starring Europe’s largest walking dinosaurs to ever roam the stage. You and the kids will be jumping for Jurassic joy, so get ready for the ultimate Jurassic rescue adventure. 1:30pm cornexchangenew.com 31 May Fireman Sam Live! at The Haymarket, Basingstoke Norman Price is determined to win the Pontypandy Treasure Hunt, but when he discovers clues to a real pirate treasure, he goes exploring deep into the caves. With clues, pirate songs and plenty of swashbuckling adventure, Fireman Sam’s new live show is perfect for all budding pirates! 12:30pm/3:30pm anvilarts.org.uk

JUNE 13 June Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Noisy Kids 2026 at The Hexagon, Reading Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the magical world of music. Join the full might of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) for a fun-filled, interactive concert designed especially for young music lovers. 11:30am whatsonreading.com 14 and 15 June The Tiger Who Came to Tea at South Hill Park, Bracknell Join the tea-guzzling tiger in this delightful family show; packed with oodles of magic, sing-a-long songs and clumsy chaos. Don’t miss this stunning stage adaptation of the classic tale of teatime mayhem… expect to be surprised! southhillpark.org.uk 22 and 23 June Madagascar – A Musical Adventure Jr. at Reading Rep Theatre Based on the smash DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure Jr. follows all of your favourite cracka-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar.

Performed by the wonderful Youth Theatre cast. 6pm readingrep.com

Thames Valley West

Don’t forget to say you saw these events listed in Families Thames Valley West Magazine!

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WHAT’S ON

What’s on

May/June 2026

All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.

MAY Until 18 May Bluebell Trail at Basildon Park, near Pangbourne A brand-new walk at Basildon Park providing an additional 600 metre stretch of woodland. A carpet of stunning bluebells from mid Spring until May will be available for the first time to visitors and members.

10am-4pm nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ oxfordshire-buckinghamshireberkshire/basildon-park Until 31 May Fashioning a Beautiful World at Basildon Park, near Pangbourne In 1952, Lord and Lady Iliffe saved Basildon Park from demolition and restored the house to its Georgian splendour. Step through the front door and enter the world of Lord and Lady Iliffe to find out more about their design choices in making a home and the creation of Basildon Park as a backdrop to their lives. 10am-5pm nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ oxfordshire-buckinghamshireberkshire/basildon-park 2 May The Bad Guys 2 at Regal Picturehouse, Henley In the new chapter from DreamWorks Animation’s acclaimed 2022 action-comedy hit about a crackerjack criminal crew of animal outlaws, The Bad Guys are struggling to find trust and acceptance in their newly minted lives as Good Guys, when they are pulled out of retirement and forced to do “one last job” by an all-female squad of criminals. Based on the New York Times best-selling book series by Aaron Blabey, The Bad

Guys 2 reunites the film’s all-star cast and filmmakers. 11:30am picturehouses.com 2 May Progress Youth 75th Anniversary Afternoon at Progress Theatre, Reading This anniversary event honours the incredible journey of the youth theatre, showcasing the talent and dedication of its members past and present. The afternoon will include afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones, and prosecco, alongside performances and memories from past and present members, and time to reconnect with old and new friends of Progress Youth Theatre.

2pm-4pm progresstheatre.co.uk 2-4 May LEGO-themed Bank Holiday Weekend at Odds Farm Park, High Wycombe In partnership with The Creative Brick Company, Odds Farm Park is bringing limitless creativity to the farm and inspiring imaginations, no matter how small. Engaging workshops for all ages feature creative LEGO® and DUPLO® challenges, allowing little ones to let their imaginations run wild with farm-themed builds. oddsfarm.co.uk 2-4 May Superheroes and Princesses at 4 Kingdoms, Thatcham Superheroes and princesses characters meet and greet.

4-kingdoms.co.uk 2-4 May Medieval Jousting at Stonor Park, Henley It’s set to be an unforgettable day filled with family-friendly

APOLLO Half-Term Holiday Club Tuesday 26 to Friday 29 May

Supervised care for children aged 4-11years 8.30am to 5.30pm

Children must bring a packed lunch

£23.50 per day

(Concessionary rate available, T&Cs apply) Childcare vouchers accepted. Ofsted Registered.

For more information call 07950 628750 or email: apolloyouthclub@gmail.com

and butchery demonstrations from a fantastic line up of BBQ enthusiasts. 11am-6pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk

entertainment and boundless excitement! What’s more, visitors can access the adventure playground, Tumblestone Hollow, as well as Stonor’s Gardens with their Medieval Jousting ticket, resulting in hours of entertainment. stonor.com

4 May Wokingham May Fayre The Wokingham Lions May Fayre is run on the first May Bank Holiday Monday – they have been running them since 1995! 10am-5pm wokinghamlions.org.uk

3 May Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham Join the group for some stories, information books and poems about the sea and the seaside.

Bring along your own favourite books to share and get ready for some crafting. Suitable for ages 5-8. 10am-11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk

4 May Bradfield Mayfayre The Mayfayre has become one of the best local traditional country fayres in Berkshire, providing very good value for money and an afternoon of fun and entertainment, drawing people from across Berkshire. It has been focused on fundraising for the community for over 40 years, and providing a traditional good value day out.

12pm-4:30pm bradfieldmayfayre.co.uk

3 May Spring Fete at Watermill Theatre, Newbury Have a go at some traditional fête activities and try your hand at some crafts. Take part in the worldfamous duck race, or get creative and have your face painted!

10am-4pm watermill.org.uk

9 May Wicked at Regal Picturehouse, Henley The untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power and Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart. 11:30am picturehouses.com

3 May Country and ‘Cue Festival at Dinton Pastures, Hurst Get ready for a full day of familyfriendly fun at Country & ‘Cue, a lively celebration of Country culture, great food and hands-on entertainment! Enjoy toe-tapping tunes on the live country music stage, alongside sizzling BBQ

g Birthday Brilliant Brick Buildin Bashes for LEGO Fans 90 minute immersive experience with 1000’s of LEGO Bricks and Minifigures Challenges, games and fun delivered as an inclusive event for all of your guests.

Hosted by experienced Play Facilitators who love to create memorable events Choose your favourite LEGO theme and we will create a tailor made party for your child.

£325

for up to 24 children

(Additional guests £8 each)

Brick Gifts and Party Bags available

info@masterbuildersclub.co.uk www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk

Families Thames Valley West 17

WHAT’S ON 9 May Reading Sailing Club Open Day, Sonning A FREE, fun-filled day on the water. Enjoy sailing taster sessions for adults and children, plus windsurfing, paddleboarding and model yacht racing. 11am–3pm readingsc.org.uk 10 May A Royal Picnic at Shaw House, Newbury Pack up your favourite treats and join a Royal Picnic! Starting with a live show of singing and dancing, you will then be able to meet and have photographs with the magical princesses and characters whilst enjoying your picnic outside.

10:30am/1pm/3:30pm jollypopentertainment.co.uk 16 May Wicked: For Good at Regal Picturehouse, Henley Last year’s global cinematic cultural sensation, which became the most successful Broadway film adaptation of all time, now reaches its epic, electrifying, emotional conclusion. This is the final chapter of the untold story of the witches of Oz, which begins with Elphaba and Glinda estranged and living with the consequences of their choices.

11:30am picturehouses.com 16 May Centenary Community Festival, University of Reading Featuring live performances, fascinating research talks, sports taster sessions, delicious street food, and much, much more, our Community Festival is the place to

be for all the family. Admission is FREE and everyone is welcome!

12pm-5pm reading.ac.uk 16 May Kidical Mass Bike Ride from Car Park 4, University of Reading Circular, family-friendly bike ride.

2pm kidicalmassreading.co.uk 17 May Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham Author event with Sue Palmer who will be talking about her latest book The Shell Secret, an exciting World War II mystery, set on the Cornish coast. Join the group for stories, a coastal quiz and to find out about Sue’s special shell collection.

Suitable for ages 9-11. 10am-11am fourbearsbook.co.uk 17 May RAG Parade at Forbury Gardens, Reading The University of Reading’s historic RAG Parade returns to the centre of Reading for an afternoon of live entertainment, stalls, and the chance to bring students and the community together to raise money for charity. 12pm-5pm reading.ac.uk 22 May-1 Jun Children’s Funfair at Cantley Park, Wokingham Come and join the fun of the fair with J&B Events, FREE entry with lots of free activities for the kids.

11am-7pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk

MAY HALF-TERM HOLIDAY CLUBS

May - 29 Mayof 8am-6pm £45 *+£5 Ages 3-11 yrs A26week adventures at at Crown Wood & Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools The Beehive Holiday Clubs th th

th th

Thesewww.beehiveclub.co.uk/holidayclubs fantastic clubs are packed with brilliant activities for every 3–11-year-old!

Join the team at Crown Wood or Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools for a buzzing line-up from 26-29 May. Activities include: Scooter workshop with world record holder, Terry Price!* Learn woodworking skills with Seed of Play,* Get up close and learn about insects and reptiles with Brambles Animal Encounters, Super-fun K-Pop dance workshop. PLUS daily arts & crafts, games, baking, sports, toys and endless opportunities for imaginative play!

Full days: 8am–6pm, £45 (activities marked with * incur an additional £5).

Booking is made simple with easy online registration and secure payments. Childcare vouchers are accepted, and there is a 10% sibling discount. www.beehiveclub.co.uk Facebook: thebeehivekidsclub 18 Families Thames Valley West

23-31 May Half Term Hoedown at Odds Farm Park, High Wycombe Round up the family and dust off your boots, as Odds Farm brings the Wild West to life with a foot-stomping hoedown this May half term, with interactive live shows, sheep shearing, country games, cowboy crafts and more all included in your entry ticket. oddsfarm.co.uk 23-31 May Caribbean Connections at London Transport Museum Celebrate Caribbean history and culture at London Transport Museum. 2026 marks 70 years since London Transport began recruiting employees in the Caribbean. ltmuseum.co.uk 23-31 May Dinosaur Invasion at 4 Kingdoms, Thatcham The prehistoric residents are taking over the park!

4-kingdoms.co.uk 25-29 May Animal Farm Week at Wellington Country Park, Riseley Get ready for a week full of animal talks and interactive farm-themed activities! Meet the experts during a Meet the Farmer Q&A, step into the shoes of a vet with roleplay workshops and get stuck in with a mucking out activity.

9:30am-4:30pm wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk 26 May Mushroom Kingdom Quest at Badgemore Primary School, Henley Brick Building LEGO Workshop for children aged 5-15. Join everyone’s favourite video game character on an epic adventure through Mushroom Kingdom. 9:30am– 11:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk 26 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. The downstairs museum galleries will be open, and there is an opportunity to take part in a craft. 10:30am-12pm westberkshireheritage.org 26 May Mushroom Kingdom Quest at The Heights Primary School, Reading Brick Building LEGO Workshop for children aged 5-15. Join everyone’s favourite video game character on an epic adventure through Mushroom Kingdom. 2pm-4pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk 26-29 May Create and Grow at Squire’s Hare Hatch and Squire’s Wokingham Garden Centres Get hands dirty and plant a tasty veg pot with three vegetable plants.

Decorate your pot with stickers, add a plant label and take it home to watch your veggies grow! squiresgardencentres.co.uk 27 May Mushroom Kingdom Quest at Sonning Common Village Hall Brick Building LEGO Workshop for

children aged 5-15. Join everyone’s favourite video game character on an epic adventure through Mushroom Kingdom. 9:30–11:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk 27 May Family Activity Day at Shaw House, Newbury Choose from a selection of ceramic decorations (subject to availability on the day). Decorate your chosen one with porcelain pens and other craft materials. 10am-2pm westberkshireheritage.org 28 May Youth Theatre Taster Sessions at Watermill Theatre, Newbury Join in with a free taster of what Watermill Theatre’s weekly youth theatre sessions are like! Involving games, script work and devising exercises, these will be a great example of the fun to be had and skills to be learned in the theatre’s regular groups. watermill.org.uk 28 May Mushroom Kingdom Quest at Reading Town Hall Brick Building LEGO Workshop for children aged 5-15. Join everyone’s favourite video game character on an epic adventure through Mushroom Kingdom. 11:30am– 1:30pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk 29 May Messy Museum Morning Make a rainstick, a ceremonial musical instrument for summoning rain, from a cardboard tube, foil, wax discs and rice. Decorate with marker pens, stickers and other craft materials. 10am-1pm westberkshireheritage.org 31 May VW Car Rally 2026 at Stonor Park, Henley This celebration of vintage Volkswagens brings together beautifully restored vehicles and a wonderfully relaxed festival atmosphere, all set within the stunning surroundings of Stonor Park. 12pm-9pm stonor.com

JUNE 5 June Midsummer Revels at Shaw House, Newbury Featuring traditional English folksongs, self-written material and toe-tapping dance tunes, Midsummer Revels is a glorious feel-good evocation of sunny days, blue skies and green fields.

Songs of land, sea, town and country are brought to life on a plethora of instruments such as English border bagpipes, mandocello and shawm, all underscored with GreenMatthews’ trademark wit and humour. 6pm westberkshireheritage.org 5 June Bats at the Museum at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury James Shipman explains where bats live, how they fly in the dark, and why they are so important and protected by law. After a brief talk outside the museum, James will help guests to see several species that emerge at dusk nearby (weather dependent). 9:45-10:20pm westberkshireheritage.org Familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON 6 and 7 June The Labyrinth Challenge at Newbury Showground You, your family and your friends can experience the thrill of the UK’s biggest inflatable obstacle course!

If that’s not big enough for you, there is also the World’s Biggest Bouncy Castle on tour! 9am-5pm newburyshowground.co.uk 6 and 7 June The Great British Food Festival at Dinton Pastures, Hurst This is your chance to enjoy two flavour-packed days in the heart of Berkshire. Expect a mouth-watering mix of the finest local and regional artisan producers, sizzling street food stalls, top chefs live on stage, delectable bars, craft and gift stalls, children’s entertainment, foraging walks, all set to the soundtrack of fantastic live music. 10am-5pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk

20 June SkyGlow Festival at Newbury Showground SkyGlow combines live tribute music acts, high-energy stunt shows, interactive experiences, and creative play. Families can enjoy inflatable theme park attractions, quad bike and moto trials action, BMX stunt displays, arts and crafts tents, circus workshops, mascot appearances, bubble performers, stilt walkers, foam parties, games zones, and a kids glow rave. 12-9pm skyglowmusicfestival.co.uk 20 and 21 June Father’s Day at 4 Kingdoms, Thatcham Dads go FREE– use code ‘DAD’ on check out when you purchase an adult admission ticket. There’s also a special treat waiting for him in the cafe – a free Yorkie chocolate bar.

4-kingdoms.co.uk

7 June Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham You will be looking at books about houses, homes and other buildings.

Suitable for ages 5-8. 10am-11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk

21 June Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham You will be looking at books about all different kinds of buildings and architecture. Ages 9-11. 10am-11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk

13 and 14 June Truckfest South at Newbury Showground A great day out and a fantastic family experience! There will be monster trucks, arena stunt shows, celebrities, retail stalls, exhilarating rides and incredible trucks.

9am-4pm newburyshowground.co.uk

21 June Father’s Day Fair at Dinton Pastures, Hurst Get ready for a day packed with excitement, laughter, and unforgettable memories! Grab your friends and family for a day packed with fun under the sun! 10am-4pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk

20 June Wokingham Classic Motor Show Following on from successful 2022 and 2024 events, this is the third Wokingham Classic Motor Show on Elms Field. It will be a show for all vehicles including cars, motorcycles, old and new plus a few specials... 10am-3pm wokinghamlions.org.uk 20 June This ‘Aint Texas at Newbury Showground A one-day country and westernthemed festival bringing together live tribute acts, dancing, food, drink and hands-on activities in a welcoming, family-friendly setting.

Across the event, visitors can enjoy live country music performances, all-day line dancing, American BBQ and street food, western-inspired market stalls and a range of interactive experiences. 12pm-9pm newburyshowground.co.uk

21 June Chieveley Fete at Chieveley Manor There will be masses to do for all age groups! This is a truly traditional village fete with something a little different each year, including a huge range of delicious artisan and upmarket food and drinks (and doggy treats too). 2pm-5pm chieveleyvillagehall.org 21 June FamFest Live at Newbury Showground With 20+ activities, FamFest Live brings together live entertainment, interactive shows, creative workshops, and high-energy experiences – all in one place.

From family-friendly tribute music acts and FMX stunt shows to foam parties, kids raves, arts and crafts, yoga sessions, and educational demos, there’s something happening at every turn. 12pm-8pm famfestlive.co.uk

The Perfect IntroDUC tion to i w S mming

23 June Storytime in the Café at Dinton Pastures, Hurst A delightful short story with Wokingham Libraries. 11am wokinghamcountryside.co.uk 25 June-6 July Giffords Circus at Stonor Park, Henley A brand-new show, ‘Waterfield’, which is a celebration of the timeless beauty of the English countryside. Expect the most thrilling show they have ever staged, with daring, high-risk acts that will have you peeking between your fingers one moment and laughing with delight the next. stonor.com 26 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. After a talk inside the Museum, Ailsa will take visitors to see swifts and their nest sites in a walk from West Berkshire Museum, along the canal and back through Westfields. 6:30pm-9pm westberkshireheritage.org 27 June Reading Waterfest in Reading Abbey Ruins Water Fest is Reading’s way of celebrating and showing off the Kennet Canal in all its glory, along

with the gorgeous and historic spots on its towpath. Visitors can take in the sights and sounds as they wander through Chestnut Walk, Forbury Gardens, the renowned Abbey Ruins. 11am-5pm whatsonreading.com 28 June Rest and Restore at Shaw House, Newbury Enjoy a healing sound bath with instructor Veronika. Appreciate the present moment with soothing sounds that will provide a grounding and relaxing afternoon.

4pm-5:30pm westberkshireheritage.org 28 June Thatcham Family Fun Day Thatcham Town Council’s flagship event, Family Fun Day, returns to Henwick Worthy Sports Field! The day features the classic funfair, a wide variety of stalls, food, live entertainment and new attractions, offering something for everyone.

11am-4pm thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk 28 June Yattendon Classic Vehicle Day A fantastic day out for all the family whether you have a classic to display or if you are just looking for a good day out with the family. Over 500 exhibitors with a range of stalls, food and beverage options. ycvd.co.uk

Don’t forget to say you saw these events listed in Families Thames Valley West Magazine!

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