EDITOR: Lesley Chambers 07863 790592
editor@familiestvw.co.uk
SALES SUPPORT: Natasha Gudgeon 07767 893807 natasha@familiespublishing.co.uk
DESIGN: Rebecca Carr rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.uk
NEXT ISSUE: NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2025
Booking deadline: 30 September
Feature: The Festive Season
Welcome to our autumn issue and to a new school year! New beginnings are fresh and exciting, and I hope your family’s new beginnings this season will go well.
Your child may be keen to start a new hobby this year, and we hope you will enjoy our clubs and classes section, which showcases some great local providers of a wide variety of extracurricular activities (see pages 14-15).
This is the season for school open days, and so this issue focuses on education, including the role music plays in child development, and pre-school literacy. We are also pleased to welcome Berkshire Psychology again as the expert for our Ask the Expert feature. This time they have contributed an excellent article on autism in girls.
Last but not least, we have found some fantastic autumnal activities for families to enjoy locally, so make the most of this colourful season with another extensive What’s On guide!
Would
Where is Families Thames Valley West?
Researchers at University College London have launched the Big Toilet Project to identify the most effective toilet training methods and help parents train children earlier. This comes as the average toilet training age keeps rising, now with many children starting school still in nappies.
The project invites parents worldwide to share their experiences through a survey and optional diaries, aiming to gather evidence for better support and policies. Delays in training are partly blamed on ultra-absorbent modern nappies, changes in parenting, and less support for families. Disposable nappies are a major source of plastic waste, with billions used annually in the EU alone.
The researchers want to move away from “potty shaming” and instead provide practical, evidence-based advice. The goal is to help families, cut plastic waste and understand why trends differ by country and demographic.
Parents can participate by completing a five-minute survey online.
More information at
The Family Learning Festival which runs from 4 October to 2 November is an annual celebration of the joy of learning together as a family.
This festival encourages families to explore, discover and learn new things through a wide range of educational activities and experiences. It emphasises the importance of family bonding through shared learning and provides opportunities for families to engage in creative and enriching activities.
Organisations across the UK, including schools, libraries, museums, children centres and galleries will be staging a range of FREE and low-cost creative family learning events, workshops in your community that your family can participate in.
Find a local Family Learning Festival event, visit www.familylearningfestival.com and use the interactive map.
• Diagnostic assessments for autism and/or ADHD • Recognised by CAMHS
Jamie Oliver, long known for his school dinner reforms, is now on a mission to overhaul dyslexia support in UK schools. Drawing on his own experience with dyslexia, Oliver is partnering with MPs, educators and groups such as the British Dyslexia Association to push for urgent changes. His campaign centres on three key reforms: mandatory dyslexia screening for all primary school children, better teacher training to recognise and support dyslexic students and wider use of assistive technology like reading pens and audiobooks.
Oliver argues these steps would ensure early intervention, boost pupil confidence and allow teaching to play to each child’s strengths. While his proposals have been praised by advocacy groups, challenges remain - particularly funding, teacher workload and slow policy change. Still, Oliver’s campaign could benefit all pupils by making classrooms more inclusive and adaptable and by improving literacy support for everyone, not just those with a diagnosis.
More information at www.bdadyslexia.org.uk
A thought-provoking new handbook, Forever Families: The Highs and Lows of Modern-Day Adoption, offers a rare and honest glimpse into the world of adoption, through the voices of those who live it every day.
Commissioned by the Berkshire-based charity Parenting Special Children, authors Shirley Anstis and Zobia Kalim have brought together a collection of 34 deeply personal stories, spanning a diverse range of families and experiences. Adoptive parents open up about their life-changing journey of adoption, the struggles they face in securing vital support for their children and the profound resilience and love that binds these families together.
Forever Families is also a practical guide for prospective adopters, offering heartfelt advice from those who have walked the path.
The book is currently available to buy on Amazon at www.amazon.co.uk/Forever-Families-highs-modern-dayadoption/dp/0956948057
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.
By Usha Patel
My student Simone is 6 years old and her mum jokingly tells me she has two speeds: slow and slower! Her mum is concerned because the school says Simone’s academics are behind, particularly phonics and reading.
Like Simone, many individuals are affected detrimentally by a slow processing speed. This hinders learning with ease and is one of the things professionals check when testing for neurodivergent conditions
How slow processing affects children
When sounds reaching the brain are not timely, the child either appears not to hear when spoken to or offers a delayed response. It also means they can’t process the sounds fast enough to blend them, which impacts mastering phonics when learning to read.
When visual processing is slow, the eyes do not move easily. Children might compensate by moving their head when reading, which can be tiring.
Slow processing leads to delayed motor control, which in turn, impacts the next developmental stage of fine motor control. This leads to laboured handwriting.
Keeping to time
Temporal processing is the activity of keeping to time within the brain; measuring from microseconds to milliseconds and from minutes to hours. It is responsible for many things including detecting where a sound is coming from (as sound hits one ear microseconds before the other), for waking up, putting the brain to sleep at night and for focusing attention, reading comprehension, remembering information, processing speech, motor co-ordination and other activities.
Helping those with weak or delayed processing speed
Babies and infants automatically learn body (temporal) timing when they learn to move, from feeding to crawling, walking and running. As they move, they activate their temporal processing.
Adjusting the pace of movement impacts temporal processing. Using a metronome (set at 54bpm) to pace activities such as clapping, walking or jumping will add a layer of accuracy to help
pace and improve those with slow processing. Even when the child stops this timed activity, there will be an increased speed in other areas as a skill transfers. There are many free metronome apps available for smart phones. Working with a metronome for fifteen minutes daily can have a significant impact on improving processing speed.
Therapeutic methods
Interactive Metronome® (IM) is a professional product for those with diagnosed processing difficulties. It helps the brain keep to its internal timing by asking the individual to clap or step to the constant beat of the metronome. Students use touch pads when moving to the beat and the IM software analyses their accuracy and timing to the millisecond. A child uses headphones to listen to further cues and can adjust their pace if they are going too fast or too slow. The programme is gamified and offers a visual element too.
Importantly, the pace at the start is slow and the duration may only be five minutes. However, with carefully adaptive therapeutic sessions, a child slowly increases their temporal processing speed to an optimum level.
Increasing temporal processing speed results in better communication across the brain. When the different parts of a child’s brain communicate better, this improves communication, language, movement, reading, learning and understanding.
Interactive Metronome® has over three hundred research papers. It is an evidence-based programme that can help change the learning outcome for those behind in their studies.
Usha Patel is a Neurocognitive Therapist at Raviv Practice London. She is a qualified Interactive Metronome® provider. For advice on any of these issues, visit www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk
Poor processing is often a standalone issue with various root causes, many of which are
It may be linked to motor difficulties, where delayed signals from specific body parts to the brain affect how quickly and accurately information is received and handled. This lag can impact a child’s ability to learn, retain and recall information. Poor processing can influence many areas of academic performance, particularly when speed, co-ordination or cognitive efficiency are required for classroom tasks.
The Newbury Academy Trust proudly brings together three distinctive and high-performing schools—Trinity School, Fir Tree Primary School, and Speenhamland School - each united by a shared vision of excellence, inclusion, and opportunity.
At Trinity, students thrive in a dynamic secondary environment that offers strong academic results, innovative vocational pathways, and a culture grounded in Personal Excellence and Collective Responsibility.
Fir Tree provides a nurturing and creative primary education, where every child is known, supported, and inspired to achieve their best.
Speenhamland is a vibrant, inclusive school that fosters curiosity, resilience and a love of learning from the earliest years.
Across all three schools, the Trust is committed to highquality teaching, enriching experiences, and community engagement. Together, they ensure that every childregardless of background - can flourish, succeed, and feel a true sense of belonging. Join a trust that places children at the heart of everything it does. www.newburyacademytrust.org
Leighton Park School is the only school in England to be recognised by the ISI as having a Significant Strength in its values-led approach.
The school gives its Quaker values currency and purpose, believing in the unique potential of each individual and nurturing a community of kindness. At Leighton Park you won’t just succeed –you’ll succeed as your authentic self.
Academic excellence is nurtured through an innovative curriculum where it’s about more than just learning, it’s about becoming who you’re meant to be. That means pushing yourself, not being afraid to fail and taking every opportunity – all within a supportive community.
Leighton Park won the ISA Award for Future Readiness 2024-25 and in a world of by-standers, they choose to make a difference. You will gain the skills to understand the complex problems you see around you in the world and the tools to work with others to be changemakers.
Visit www.leightonpark.com to find out more.
By Lisa Wander and Catherine Noble
‘Music is a more potent instrument than any other for education because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul.’
This quote, often attributed to Plato, highlights the profound impact of music on a child’s emotional and intellectual development, emphasising its ability to engage the soul in a way that other subjects may not. A core creative subject, it fosters creativity, engagement, cognitive and emotional skills, social skills and self-esteem. Excellent music education opens opportunities that stay with children and shape their lives.
Playing a key role in brain development and impacting various areas of cognitive function, music engages both sides of the brain, thereby improving learning and memory, as well as supporting language acquisition and literacy development.
Songs with rhymes and repetition help develop vocabulary and phonemic awareness. Listening to music and melodies exposes children to a wider range of words and phrases and trains memory skills and recall. Did you know that music is the only thing that stimulates your entire brain? When children can’t hear you because they are concentrating on something else, try singing to them!
Music can have a huge impact on a child’s social and emotional development. It allows children to creatively express emotions which may be difficult to articulate through words alone. As Hans Christian Andersson wrote: ‘Where words fail, music speaks.’ This emotional outlet works on developing empathy
and emotional intelligence. In addition, exposure to music has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety in children. It creates a calming, positive and engaging environment that enhances overall mental well-being and readiness to learn.
Touching hearts and minds, music is a cornerstone of the broad and balanced education that every child should receive; it celebrates and challenges, it connects and moves us.
In the same way that we teach children literacy and numeracy to prepare them for adult life, we must give them the musical tools they need for a lifetime of music-making and enjoyment. For some, music will be the foundation of a career in one of the country’s most important and globally-recognised industries. For others, it will provide experiences and skills which develop their creativity.
For many, music will simply be a source of joy, comfort and companionship throughout their lives.
Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.
By Jemma Zoe Smith
Choosing a school is a very personal decision and it’s not just about league tables, exam results or facilities. The real question is: in what kind of environment will your child flourish?
Firstly, take a close look at what’s available locally. Some state schools have excellent enrichment programmes and you may be surprised by the range of support on offer. Grammar schools are selective but not always far from home. And independent schools vary enormously - from traditional boarding to creative day schools - so it’s worth considering several.
When touring a school, look beyond the official tour route. Are students engaged or glazed over in classrooms? Do teachers seem stretched or supported? Check the toilets (a surprising window into how a school manages care and discipline).
Choose the environment they’ll be happy and grow in, regardless of the type of school. Remember, you as a parent know your child best and understand their personality, rhythm and levels of resilience.
If you can, it’s worthwhile speaking to other parents whose children attend the school.
In addition, as you tour schools, there are usually opportunities to speak to the children that attend and ask about day-to-day school life. Raise the questions you ask teachers with these children too. Children are generally very honest! For this reason, it’s good to visit schools during a normal school day or at an Open Day where you know the school’s students will be present.
How is stress handled during exams? Does the school understand the culture that your children have been brought up with? Are children expected to do homework late into the evening? What is school lunch like and can students sit with friends or are they rushed through? These are all aspects of school life that you may feel it important to understand.
Don’t be afraid to ask practical questions too like: can my child miss lessons for competitions or extra-curricular singing lessons for instance? Are there clubs at lunchtime for those who don’t like sport? If you’re considering boarding, ask what happens at weekends. Do most boarders go home?
Ultimately you are looking for a school environment in which your child will be happy and grow in, regardless of the type of school. Remember, you as a parent know your child best and understand their personality, rhythm and level of resilience.
Open days may need pre-booking. Please check before visiting.
Crosfields School
Reading, RG2 9BL 0118 987 1810 crosfields.com
Saturday 27 September, 9:30am: Whole school open morning
Wednesday 8 October, 9:15am: Nursery stay and play
Thursday 9 October, 9am: Year 7 experience day
Friday 10 October, 9:15am: Reception taster
Thursday 16 October, 9:15am: Whole school open morning
Holme Grange School Wokingham, RG40 3AL 0118 978 1566
holmegrange.org
Tuesday 23 September: Eaton Grange open evening
Saturday 27 September, 9am: Pre-prep and prep open morning, 12pm: Little Grange nursery open afternoon
Horris Hill School Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 9DJ 01635 40594 horrishill.com
Wednesday 8 October, 10am: Reception open morning
Leighton Park School Reading, RG2 7ED 0118 987 9608 leightonpark.com
Saturday 27 September, 9am: Annual open morning
Saturday 27 September, 1:30pm: Sixth form open afternoon
Wednesday 8 October, 1:30pm: Sixth form taster afternoon
Tuesday 14 October, 8:30am: Year 7 taster day for current year 6 students
Thursday 16 October, 8:30am: Taster day for current year 7 or 8 students
Luckley House School
Luckley Road, Wokingham, RG40 3EU 0118 978 4175
luckleyhouseschool.org
Thursday 2 October: Sixth form open evening
Friday 10 October: Sixth form taster day
Tuesday 14 October: Year 6 taster day
Saturday 18 October: Open morning
Oratory Prep School
Reading, RG8 7SF 0118 984 4511 oratoryprep.so.uk
Friday 3 October: All school open day
Pangbourne College Reading, RG8 8LA 0118 976 7415 pangbourne.com
Saturday 4 October: Whole school open morning
Queen Anne’s School 6 Henley Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 6DX 0118 918 7333 qas.org.uk
Saturday 20 September, 9:30am: Open morning
St Joseph’s College Reading, RG1 5JT 0118 966 1000 sjcr.org.uk
Thursday 2 October, 6pm: Senior open evening
Tuesday 14 October, 6:30pm: Sixth form open evening
The Abbey Junior School 30 Christchurch Road, Reading, RG2 7AR
The Abbey Senior School Kendrick Road, Reading, RG1 5DZ
Junior School: 0118 931 3111, Senior School: 0118 987 2256 / theabbey.co.uk
Thursday 18 September, 4:30pm: Sixth form open evening, 4:30pm: English and PE open event
Friday 19 September, 9am/1pm: Junior school open event
Friday 26 September, 9:30am/2:30pm: Senior school and sixth form working open day
Friday 3 October, 9:30am: Stay and play at Little Knellies Nursery
Tuesday 14 October, 4:30pm: History and food & nutrition open event
Wednesday 15 October, 8:30am: Sixth form taster day, 9am: Junior school taster day
Trinity School
Newbury, RG14 2DU 01635 510500
Thursday 11 September, 4pm: Open evening
Don’t forget to say you saw these listed in Families Thames Valley Magazine!
By Sophie David
With early education reform continuing to evolve in the UK, there’s increasing focus on HOW children learn, not just what they learn. As the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) continues to shift towards child-centred approaches, it’s essential to remember that play is not a distraction from learning; it IS learning. Especially in the early years, children make sense of the world, build language and develop communication through rich, hands-on, joyful experiences.
Young children thrive in environments that are safe, stimulating and full of opportunities for exploration. Whether it’s splashing in puddles, baking biscuits or chatting before bed, these reallife experiences are the true foundations of literacy. They spark curiosity, support social and emotional development and help children build the confidence to express themselves. Worksheets and screens have their place but they can’t replace the depth of learning that happens through meaningful, playful interaction.
Confidence before letters
Before children can read or write, they need to feel confident in their thoughts, their voices and their ability to make sense of what they see and hear. Literacy begins long before the first book is opened or pencil is held, it starts with expression and connection. When a child feels that their ideas matter and someone is listening, they become more motivated to communicate.
language through creative play. These playful moments lay the groundwork for phonemic awareness, vocabulary growth and narrative understanding, essential components of early literacy. Importantly, these skills develop in ways that are meaningful, relevant and fun for young learners.
From screens to scenes
In today’s world, screens are a reality for most families. However, passive screen time can limit children’s opportunities to engage in back-and-forth conversation, imaginative play and independent thinking. The goal isn’t to ban screens entirely but to find a healthy balance.
Real-world, interactive experiences offer far richer learning. A trip to the park, helping to write a shopping list or building a cardboard post office provides children with valuable vocabulary, opportunities to problem-solve and space to imagine. These everyday experiences are filled with chances to use language with purpose, something even the best-designed app can’t fully replicate.
READ, WRITE, PLAY: 100 Easy Ways to Make Phonics Fun for Children Aged 3-7. Available in
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By Ann Magalhaes
In the twenty-two years since I became a mum, parenting advice has shifted from trusty books like What to Expect and Gina Ford’s routines to sleek apps, algorithms and an endless stream of online advice. New mums today sip their much-needed coffees while scrolling TikTok and Instagram for information and inspiration.
What has changed?
For starters, once the baby phase passes, many parents are turning to evidence-based parenting classes. These offer practical, science-backed ways to help families thrive. Research continues to show that everyday routines, the words we choose and the way we say them and how we support our children through big feelings all contribute to nurturing their development.
And one truth remains: parents are still their child’s first and most important teacher.
Today’s parents benefit from easy-to-digest information about how a child’s brain develops and how that connects to their behaviour. Neuroscientist Lisa Feldman Barrett, in her book 7½ Lessons About the Brain, says: ‘Little brains wire themselves to their world. It’s up to us to create that world … to grow those brains healthy and whole.’
It’s a good reminder that the little things matter. Reading, singing, snuggling, just being there still matter more than any educational toy ever could.
Emotional wellness
One big change (and it’s a good one!) is how emotional wellness is at the forefront of family life. Parents are learning about the
The number of babies born to older fathers is on the rise, says the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Notable examples include Rod Stewart, who became a dad at 65, and Robert De Niro at 79. Professor Allan Pacey, a fertility expert, notes men over 40 are about half as fertile as men in their mid-20s, making this trend particularly interesting.
Births to parents under 30 have dropped, as more people delay starting families. The biggest decrease is among mothers under 20, with births falling by nearly 5%.
Despite a global trend of declining birth rates, England saw a slight increase in 2024, with 567,708 live births - a 0.7% rise from the previous year. Wales, on the other hand, saw a 2% decrease. Greg Ceely of the ONS said the overall rise in England and Wales reverses a recent downward trend, though delayed parenthood is becoming more common.
More information at www.ons.gov.uk
‘4 S’s’ - making sure children feel safe, seen, soothed and secure. And that’s not just good for the kids, it’s great for the whole family.
Dads are more involved than ever, especially since the pandemic saw us working from home and figuring out how to balance work with family life. Today’s parents work more as a partnership, with both mums and dads actively in the mix. Is it perfect yet? No. But the progress is positive.
The rise of baby apps
Today’s 30-year-old mum was 12 when the iPhone came out. She’s tech-savvy - and now there’s an app for everything! One new mum uses Huckleberry, an app she describes as ‘super user-friendly’ and a ‘huge help during those overwhelming early weeks.’
At first, the app helped her track things like weight, sleep and feeding, data she could easily share with her GP. I asked if it ever made her feel like she wasn’t doing enough (because apps can sometimes make us feel that way!). She laughed and said: ‘I always feel like I’m not doing enough as a new mum but I wouldn’t say the app itself is contributing to that!’
So, yes, mum guilt is still a thing. No matter what, parents still feel like they’re falling short, even when they’re doing more than enough.
Positive discipline
One big shift I’ve noticed is in discipline. Thanks to social media and the abundance of advice floating around (some excellent, some less so), more parents are moving away from old-school punishments, threats, bribes and shouting. Instead, they’re learning that authoritative parenting, based on warmth, connection and firm boundaries, is the most effective way to support a child’s emotional development and learning.
In the 1960s, psychologist Diana Baumrind identified key parenting styles and. her ‘authoritative’ style - firm but warm, with clear expectations and positive relationships continues to be the sweet spot for raising well-adjusted kids.
Some things never change
Life today may be faster and busier than it was twenty-two years ago, but some things haven’t changed. Children of all ages don’t need the fanciest toys or the trendiest gear. They need you: your time, your love, your calm and steady presence.
We like to remind parents that they are enough, that their family is unique and doesn’t need to match anyone else’s. As children grow, learn, make mistakes, gain competencies and become independent, the best way to help them is by embracing positive, connected parenting. Yes, you may still feel exhausted (because parenting is really hard sometimes) but you’ll find greater calm and joy amidst the chaos.
As Gretchen Rubin wrote: ‘The days are long, but the years are short. So ... cuddle that baby, or toddler, or tween or teen ... because it goes by so quickly!’
Ann Magalhaes is part of The Parent Team (www.theparent. team), parenting educators offering classes, workshops and private sessions teaching evidence-based parenting skills and offering parents practical, effective support.
For too long, autism assessment and diagnosis has focused on medicalised language such as ‘disorder’, ‘deficits’ and ‘symptoms’, with behaviours described as ‘odd’, ‘abnormal’, ‘peculiar’ ‘excessive’ and ‘restricted’. Parents, teachers and clinicians are asked about behaviours that fit with a wholly negative picture with a clear ‘external presentation’. This ’deficit’ model of assessment has dominated for years and has meant that typically, it is those children with highly visible support needs, perhaps around language and communication, personal care and/or unsafe behaviour, that are diagnosed at a young age.
What do we mean by Internal Presentation?
In the absence of obvious observable and stereotyped ‘deficit’ behaviour e.g. flapping, poor eye contact, not responding to their name and solitary play, and in the presence of ‘strengths’ such as well-developed language, good behaviour and intelligence, those with an internal presentation (often, but not exclusively, girls) have had their autistic support needs missed.
The male-centric assessment data and research, combined with societal norms and expectations around girls’ behaviour, has meant that autism in girls was explained away differently: ‘they’re just shy, fussy, highly strung, bossy, anxious, oversensitive, rude, controlling.’
The Autistic Girls Network says that in the UK, those with an internal presentation (largely girls) are typically diagnosed six years later than those with an external presentation (largely boys) and are often in crisis. As cited in the White Paper published by the Autistic Girls Network, ‘Girls aren’t diagnosed later because there is a female phenotype of autism (there isn’t), they are missed for complex reasons, the largest of which are masking and presenting internally.’
Masking
Masking is a safety behaviour and is associated with an ‘internal presentation’. Even young children sense feeling different from others. They might experience confusion, rejection, overwhelm and try to fit in to feel more secure.
Masking occurs consciously and unconsciously. It can help people ‘survive’ confusing social situations or help them make friends. Masking includes consciously making eye
contact, pretending to like something, hiding distress at noises, practising conversations and facial expressions, watching and copying others. Sustained masking means a person hides their authentic self. The cognitive and emotional effort required is enormous, with little reward, it is associated with exhaustion, burnout and low self-worth.
Widening our lens
We have listened to autistic peoples lived experience, to shape what we do. Those with an internal presentation and fewer visible support needs are often not recognised as neurodivergent and have suffered. While we have referred to this being largely women and girls, it is not exclusively so. Boys and men can mask and present internally too, so the focus on these being female-only issues can also be problematic. In today’s world being autistic is challenging enough but being autistic without knowing is Universally Bad News (author’s opinion) regardless of gender. See Emily Katy: ‘Finding out I was autistic saved my life’ - BBC News.
Conversely, children who are aware they are autistic have been reported to have improved self-advocacy skills, and increased self-awareness of both their strengths and weaknesses (Kiely, et al. 2020).
The Autistic Girls Network says, ‘Autistic girls may be extremely sociable or chatty, or very shy and isolative. It is common for them to have one or two strong friendships, but struggle socialising in groups. A common theme reported by autistic women was to not really feel as if they fitted into the friendship group (Milner et al, 2019). Others felt that they had more difficulty keeping friendships than making them.‘
Capturing and understanding a person’s social connections, perspectives, masking
Anna Maguire Highly Specialist Speech and Language Therapist
and sensory experiences forms a valuable part of assessment. A person’s social experience is more nuanced than ‘has friends or doesn’t have friends’. It is shaped by aspects of communication, needs and interests, and sensory experience. Autistic people can and do make amazing friends and enjoy mutually rewarding relationships with shared understanding and connectedness.
A note from Dr Jenny Murray, Clinical Director, Berkshire Psychology
Thanks to Anna Maguire for writing this article on our behalf. Anna is a highly experienced and valued SALT. She is extremely knowledgeable about the many ways neurodivergence presents, and approaches assessments with a genuine passion for helping our clients.
Dr Jenny Murray Clinical Director, Berkshire Psychology
Berkshire Psychology is committed to offering a dynamic, collaborative and affirmative assessment experience, one that reflects a contemporary understanding of neurodivergence, and a shift away from outdated and harmful stereotypes. They aim to chip away at stigma with fresh understanding. www.berkshirepsychology.co.uk
Give your child a confidence boost this autumn
As children head back to school after the summer break, a common challenge many face is a dip in confidence. This can hold them back from reaching their full potential both socially and academically.
Whether your child needs a little boost or simply loves to socialise, Perform is the perfect weekly outlet for fun, energy and self-expression with its confidence-building classes in drama, dance and singing for ages 4-7 and 7-12.
“Perform is not a stage school,” says Perform Principal, Lucy Quick. “Our sessions are all about teaching life skills through fun, engaging activities. Every class is designed to develop what we call the 4Cs: confidence, concentration, coordination and communication.”
Each term ends with a performance, giving every child a chance to shine. And before your child even begins, Perform offers a free trial class, with time spent discussing your child’s specific needs; whether that’s speaking in a group, making eye contact or meeting new friends.
This autumn’s magical line-up:
Ages 4-7: Join an adventure with Magical Merlin Ages 7-12: Star in Ebenezer, a fun twist on A Christmas Carol
To book a FREE, no-obligation trial in Crowthorne, Goring, Henley, Newbury, Reading, Twyford or Wokingham, visit www.perform.org.uk/try
Monday 27 – Friday 31 October
A wide range of play and sport activities for ages 4-11years
8.30am to 5.30pm £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
Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: editor@familiestvw.co.uk
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.
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 info.
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.
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.
Perform
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.
Email us to book a FREE taster session. youthgroup@progresstheatre.co.uk progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre
www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
Fun-filled bilingual (Spanish & English)
music sessions for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.
Nurture language skills, rhythm, and confidence through catchy songs and instruments. FREE limited spaces for Pop-Up Sessions in October around Burghfield, Mortimer & Pangbourne
Email Ana at hola@encantatots.co.uk
Term classes start 4 November 2025. Join us on Tuesdays 10am in Pangbourne Village Hall and Wednesdays 10am at Soul Barns in Mortimer. www.encantatots.co.uk
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
The Alison-Jayne School of Dance is a small dance school offering ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern lessons from age 3 to 18 years at the Christ Church Centre, Henley and Sonning Common School.
For further information/free introductory lesson, call 0118 979 0683/07968 592812 or email ajdance.uk@gmail.com
Feature your club or class in our next issue, call Lesley on 07863 790592, or email editor@familiestvw.co.uk
Book by 30 September
September/October 2025
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.
Until 9 Nov
The ‘Yucky You’ Show at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell
A great new interactive science show, which is all about the human body! Over 90 activities which children of all ages can enjoy. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisureservices/look-out-discovery-centre
1 Sep Museums, My Way at the Museum of English Rural Life, Reading Themed session for neurodivergent visitors of all ages. 10am-2pm merl.reading.ac.uk
6 Sep Teen Rangers at the Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham A wildlife club for 11-17-year-olds who have an interest in wildlife and conservation. 10:30am-12:30pm bbowt.org.uk/events
6 Sep Young Rangers at the Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A wildlife club for 8–11-year-olds who love nature and wildlife. 2pm-4pm bbowt.org.uk/events
6 Sep Wonder Gigs: Nature by Filskit Theatre at South Street Arts Centre, Reading
This is a family-friendly, live event for music-loving grown-ups and their little ones aged 0-4. 10am/11:30am whatsonreading.com
6 Sep Workshop: Have a go at Weaving at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
Try your hand at stick weaving and learn about simple weaving techniques on table and heddle looms. 11am-2pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
7 Sep
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books
As schools go back, the group will be looking at books set in or featuring schools. Suitable for ages 5-8. 10am-11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
7 Sep Family Yoga at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Led by Ellen Clinch on the Corn Exchange stage, this gentle morning yoga class will focus on breath, flexibility and relaxation. 11:15am cornexchangenew.com
7, 14, 21 and 28 Sep
September Sundays at Reading Museum
The Museum is open on Sundays during September 2025. 11am-5pm readingmuseum.org.uk
11-12 Sep
Nature Tots: Harvest at the Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham A harvest-themed Nature Tots where tots can take part in outdoor nature play, stories, trails and crafts. 10-11:30am bbowt.org.uk/events
13 Sep
Reading Abbey Gateway Drop In An exciting opportunity to visit the Abbey Gateway building where Jane Austen went to school between 1785 and 1786. Take a look inside this beautiful building and learn about its history from Reading Museum’s volunteers and staff. 2:30-3:30pm whatsonreading.com
13-14 Sep
Heritage Open Days at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury Meet members from the Kennet Valley Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers who will show you some of the traditional skills associated with the original purpose of the seventeenth century Cloth Hall. Then explore the attic of the historic Cloth Hall – this is part of the museum building is not usually open to visitors and can only be accessed by a narrow and steep staircase. 10:30am-3pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
13-14 Sep
Dog Pawtraits at The Berkshire Vet, Newbury
For all dog lovers out there, get a PAWtrait of your beloved pooch,
during The Base’s Festival of Arts and Crafts! cornexchangenew.com
13-14 Sep
Medieval Jousting Weekend at Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst
A fun-packed weekend of jousting shows, birds of prey, archery, a food village and more! 10am-4:30pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk
14 Sep
Family Funday: Food and Craft Market at St Bartholemew’s Church, Reading
An amazing variety of stalls bursting with handmade treasures, delicious food and refreshing drinks. 12-5pm whatsonreading.com
14 Sep
Reading Cycle Festival at Christchurch Meadows, Reading
See amazing stunts, enjoy fairground fun, learn some BMX tricks, try an e-bike and lots more. 11am-4pm readingcyclefestival.co.uk
14 Sep
Kidical Mass Bike Ride from Christchurch Meadows, Reading Circular family ride. 1pm kidicalmassreading.co.uk
14 and 21 Sep
Heritage Open Days at Shaw House, Newbury
October
Half-Term Holiday Clubs 22nd-31st October
Join the team in the Great Hall for introductory talks about the history of the House throughout the day and then explore the House, exhibition rooms and a historic costume exhibition ‘Dressed for Shaw’ and the English Civil War arms and armoury exhibition ‘Dressed for Battle’. 11am-4pm westberkshireheritage.org/whats-
Enjoy a week of fun, creativity and adventure at the Beehive October Half-Term Holiday Clubs at Crown Wood and Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools with amazing activities for all 3-11-year-olds!
Special activities include a petting farm*, a magic show, face painting, build a Beehive bear*, Halloween crafts and more. Daily activities include arts and crafts, toys, games, sports, baking and lots of playtime!
Days are 8am-6pm - £45, with morning sessions from 8am1pm - £26 (*it is an additional £5 for these activities). The Beehive Holiday Clubs are open to all children aged between 3-11 years. There is easy online registration, booking and payment with childcare vouchers is accepted, and a 10% sibling discount is applied to full-day sessions! Crown Wood Club: 22-31 October Nine Mile Ride Club: 27-31 October
18-20 Sep
Songs and Stories in the Gallery at The Base, Newbury
Explore the Gallery and creative spaces of The Base through songs, stories, sensory play and movement for The Base’s Festival of Arts & Crafts. 9:30am cornexchangenew.com
20 Sep
Pokémon Club at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Pokémon contiunues to appeal to all ages, and this free event is a great opportunity to meet other Pokémon fans in the Balcony Bar. 10:30am1pm cornexchangenew.com
20 Sep
Reading Vegan Festival at the Market Place, Reading
A friendly environment where you can sample and buy a range of delicious vegan food, dairy-free cakes, artisan cheeses, beautiful homeware, unique gifts and much more from over 40 stalls. There will be a programme of interesting speakers, family entertainment and free giveaways. 11am whatsonreading.com
20 Sep
Workshop: Have a go at Spinning at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
Have a go at spinning with natural fibre and learn about preparation and drafting using either a drop spindle or working alongside a wheel with one of the museum’s experts.
20 Sep
Illuminated Boat Parade at and near Leander Club, Henley
An annual event which provides a fun evening of entertainment for boat entrants to close the boating season and for local residents to come together and enjoy their river and community. 7pm-9pm illuminatedparade.com
20-21 Sep Newbury Show at Newbury Showground
A great day out combining displays, competition, shopping, an unrivalled food hall experience, craft marquee, crafts, have-a-go activities and more. newburyshowground.co.uk/ newbury-show-2
21 Sep
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books
Marking the return from the summer holidays, the group will be looking at books set in or featuring schools. Suitable for ages 9-11. fourbearsbook.co.uk
21 Sep Workshop: Have a go at Braiding at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
Learn the fundamentals of ‘fill the gap’ braiding and take your braid home. Lucet and Marudai braiding demonstrations will bring the craft to life. 11am-2pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson
24 Sep-12 Oct
Step into a heartwarming Victorian Christmas with A Christmas Carol at Reading Rep Theatre!
Family friendly and filled with festive magic, Charles Dickens’ timeless tale - adapted by Beth Flintoff - brings Scrooge’s transformation to life on stage. Watch as the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come guide him toward joy and kindness in a vibrant, accessible production suitable for ages 6+.
Performances run from 28 November to 3 January, with special accessible shows including BSL interpreted, relaxed, touch tour and captioned performances. Group bookings of 10+ earn a free organiser seat and £4 off tickets! Families can enjoy discounted bundle offers, while under 30s score £5 tickets (limited dates)
Tickets range from £5–£34. Don’t miss this festive treatperfect for sharing with loved ones!
Visit readingrep.com or call the Box Office to reserve your seats today on 0118 370 2620.
27 Sep The Dinosaur that Pooped: A Rock Show at The Hexagon, Reading Adapted from the number 1 bestselling books by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand, new story for the stage. whatsonreading.com
27 Sep Adventures in Science by Crafty Fools at South Street Arts Centre, Reading Expect skills, silliness and the studious application of logic as you embark upon ‘Adventures in Science!’ 2pm whatsonreading.com
28 Sep Green Explorers at the Museum of English Rural Life, Reading This is an opportunity for children aged 5+ to experience nature and build their outdoor skills. Each session is themed around the museum collections and the changing seasons. 10am-12pm merl.reading.ac.uk
28 Sep Taylormania – A Taylor Swift Eras Tour Tribute at The Hexagon, Reading
An award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. 6pm whatsonreading.com
30 Sep Orchestra Workshop at The Abbey
30 Sep Tim Peake: The Quest to Explore Space Tour at The Hexagon, Reading Tim will share the remarkable stories of some of his fellow astronauts and explore the spectacular evolution of space travel. 7:30pm whatsonreading.com
3-12 Oct
Henley Literary Festival
Events for children will include Paddington star Hugh Bonneville, the UK’s best-selling poet Donna Ashworth, award-winning authorillustrator and designer of this year’s programme cover Emily Gravett and farmer Kaleb Cooper. henleyliteraryfestival.co.uk
3-31 Oct
Pumpkin Nights at 4 Kingdoms, Thatcham Brave the Haunted Woods, explore the lantern-lit Maize Maze, enjoy Trick-or-Treating and pick your perfect pumpkin. 4-kingdoms.co.uk
4 Oct Roman Family Fun Day at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury There will be an opportunity to take part in Roman-inspired crafts as well as to complete a themed trail. 10am-3pm westberkshireheritage.org/whatson 4 Oct
4 Oct
Young Rangers at the Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A wildlife club for 8–11-year-olds who love nature and wildlife. 2pm-4pm bbowt.org.uk/events
5 Oct
Reading Children’s Book Group in Caversham Court Gardens, Reading
It’s creepy crawly season this month, so come and discover lots of fiction and non-fiction about insects and other small creatures. Suitable for ages 5-11. fourbearsbooks.co.uk
9-10 Oct
Nature Tots: Hedghogs at the Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
A hedgehog-themed Nature Tots where tots can take part in outdoor nature play, stories, trails and crafts. 10am-11:30am bbowt.org.uk/events
10-12 Oct
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show at the Corn Exchange Newbury
The critically acclaimed production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show created by Jonathan Rockefeller features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets. The production faithfully adapts four stories by author/ illustrator Eric Carle; Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See; 10 Little Rubber Ducks; The Very Busy Spider and of course, the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar. cornexchangenew.com
10-19 Oct
Thatcham Festival at various venues in Thatcham
An exciting community event where local businesses, organisations, and individuals showcase their events
and talent, including live music performances, cultural exhibitions and more. thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk/ event/thatcham-festival-25
11 Oct
The Big Thatcham Fest Off, Thatcham High Street
Thatcham High Street will be closed to traffic and in its place there will be a range of stalls, street food and two music stages. 4:30pm-9pm thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk/ event/the-big-thatcham-fest-off-2
12 Oct
Apple Day at the Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham Apple Day celebrates the orchard harvest, wildlife and the change of season. Have fun with free activities, local produce, apple juicing, honey, crafts and much more. 10am-3:30pm bbowt.org.uk/events
12 Oct
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Pre-show Workshop at the Corn Exchange Newbury Before The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, make your very own caterpillar and butterfly puppet to take into the show. 10am/1pm cornexchangenew.com
12 Oct
Wokingham Walk from Elms Field, Wokingham
A charity walk arranged by Wokingham Lions - there are 5, 10 or 15 mile routes. 9am-5pm wokinghamwalk.co.uk
16 Oct
Glass Workshop (suitable for ages 8 and above) at Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst Enjoy a relaxing evening creating some beautiful fused artwork. You’ll
be able to choose your own colours and designs and will be shown how to create your own unique glass artwork in the format of beautiful flowers. 6pm-8pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk
16-18 Oct
Matilda Jnr at Kenton Theatre, Henley
The musical is filled with catchy songs, whimsical characters, and a heartwarming message about the importance of resilience, kindness and the belief in one’s own capabilities. thekenton.org.uk
17-19 and 24-31 Oct
Pumpkins and Woodland Trail at Wasing Park, Aldermaston
This enchanting seasonal experience offers the perfect opportunity for families to embrace the beauty of Autumn, with a magical woodland trail, delicious seasonal treats, and stunning countryside views – so get your wellies ready! wasing.co.uk
17 Oct-19 Nov
Spectacle of Light at Welford Park, Newbury
Discover this wonderful night-time Spectacle of Light and follow the new illuminated trail around the grounds of Welford Park. welfordpark.co.uk
18 Oct Pokémon Club at the Corn Exchange Newbury Pokémon contiunues to appeal to all ages and this FREE event is a great opportunity to meet other Pokémon fans in the Balcony Bar. 10:30am1pm cornexchangenew.com
18-19 Oct
Wokingham Children’s Book Festival at Carnival Hub, Wokingham Town Hall and Wokingham Library
There will be 13 events, aimed at a range of ages, where you can meet authors giving sessions on subjects such as the writing process and their characters. wokingham-tc.gov.uk/council_ events/wokingham-childrensbook-festival
19 Oct
Kidical Mass Bike Ride from Tutu’s, Palmer Park, Reading Circular family ride. 2pm kidicalmassreading.co.uk
22-24 Oct
Mini Hallo’Welly’Ween at Wellington Country Park, Riseley Enjoy story adventures, bubbly surprises, cheerful shows, playful role-play zones, and a gentle Halloween-themed train ride. With friendly animals and seasonal treats, it’s the perfect autumn day out for younger families! 10am-3pm wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk
24 and 31 Oct
Concerts in Caversham, St Andrew’s Church, Reading Family-friendly classical music concerts. 7:30pm whatsonreading.com
25 Oct WHA Pumpkin Festival at The Trading Store, Wokingham Celebrate the autumn seasons horticultural harvest with the Wokingham Horticultural Association this October! 1:45pm-3pm w-h-a.org.uk
England’s largest festival of history and culture returns from 12 to 21 September with thousands of FREE events and experiences.
This year Heritage Open Days will be focus on England’s diverse architectural heritage. From historic houses to factories, museums to music halls, formal gardens to graveyards, places, spaces and communities across the country will again host hundreds of free events this autumn.
There will be plenty of FREE interactive activities for children including dressing up, craft, woodland walks and railway rides, all based around this year’s theme, Creativity Unwrapped, sharing England’s colourful history of creativity. The festival will celebrate the experts and enthusiastic amateurs whose passions and skills add something special to our daily lives.
Brought to you by the National Trust, supported by People’s Postcode Lottery and run by thousands of local organisations and volunteers, HODs brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history. www.heritageopendays.org.uk
25 Oct
Make Your Own Fashion Collage at The Base, Newbury
Create fashion collages with Caroline Pearsall, drawing inspiration from fashion magazines and using a range of materials and processes. In this two-hour hands-on workshop, you will explore collage techniques, using repurposed materials in a fun and accessible way. 2pm-4pm cornexchangenew.com
25 Oct
Claytime at South Hill Park, Bracknell
Come to a place where the earth’s natural material meets with children’s imaginations: a world of fabulous forms, amazing animals and morphing monsters. 11:30am/2pm southhillpark.org.uk
25-26 Oct
Pumpkin Fair at Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst
Bring the whole family for a day filled with seasonal fun, including pumpkin decorating, spooky and fun face painting, pumpkin hunts and more! 10:30am-3:30pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk
25-26 Oct
CatVideoFest at Reading Biscuit Factory
A joyous experience, only available in cinemas which raises money for cats in need through partnerships with local cat charities, animal welfare organisations and shelters to best serve cats in the area. readingbiscuitfactory.co.uk
25-31 Oct
Hallo’Welly’Ween at Wellington Country Park, Riseley Giggle and groove at lively stage shows, marvel at the family circus, and climb aboard the Halloween train ride for a whimsical journey through spook-tacular scenes. wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk
25 Oct-2 Nov
Halloween Half Term at 4 Kingdoms, Thatcham Indoor soft play, animals, outdoor activities plus Halloween-themed fun and pumpkin picking. 4-kingdoms.co.uk
26 Oct
Halloween Pinch Pots: Hats, Cats and Bats at The Base, Newbury Inspired by hats, bats and cats, using air-drying foam clay and acrylic
paint with Susie Oates from Pots of Hope. 10am-12:30pm cornexchangenew.com
26 Oct Harry Styles Live Tribute Show
Family Lunch at The Village, Bracknell Basket meal, live entertainment and a dancefloor! 12pm ivvy.co.uk
26 Oct
Kidical Mass Bike Ride from Stables Café, Arborfield Circular family ride. 2pm kidicalmassreading.co.uk
26 Oct
Cirque: The Greatest Show at The Hexagon, Reading Experience iconic West End showstoppers paired with aweinspiring circus acts showcasing their breathtaking feats of agility. 2pm/6:30pm whatsonreading.com
26 Oct-1 Nov
Craft Activities for Children at City Arts Newbury Including Halloween head in clay and glass fusing and doodles. cityartsnewbury.org
27 Oct A Spooktacular Fairground Foray at Badgemore Primary School, Henley
Join a brick or treat Halloween adventure and help solve the mystery with all the fun of the fair! For LEGO fans aged 5+. 9:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
27 Oct
Movie in the Hall: Monsters Inc. at Shaw House, Newbury Lovable Sulley and his wisecracking sidekick Mike Wazowski are the top scare team at Monsters, Inc., the scream-processing factory in Monstropolis. When a little girl named Boo wanders into their world, it’s the monsters who are scared silly, and it’s up to Sulley and Mike to keep her out of sight and get her back home. 10am westberkshireheritage.org
27-31 Oct
Fairy Door Trail at Shaw House, Newbury
Explore the grounds to find the fairy doors. Additional magical craft and colouring will be available. westberkshireheritage.org
Get ready for a spooktacular time in the kitchen with this fun and frightfully fantastic book!
Families is giving five lucky readers the chance to win a copy of My First Halloween Cook Book by David Atherton, winner of The Great British Bake Off and beloved children’s cookbook author.
Packed with playful, easy-to-follow recipes perfect for little hands, this colourful book is full of spooky snacks, creepy cakes and ghoulishly good ideas to get kids excited about being in the kitchen. Don’t miss your chance to win!
Closing date: 17 October T&Cs at www.bit.ly/mfcbtcs
at
27-31 Oct
Illuminate The Base at The Base, Newbury
Create decorative willow star lanterns that will join a festive stag display at The Base this Christmas! Get creative and make individual lanterns using sustainable materials. 1:30pm/4pm cornexchangenew.com
27 Oct-2 Nov
Magical Merlin at St Martin’s Theatre, London WC2H 9NZ
A must-see mini-musical for anyone looking for a fun and memorable family day out. perform.org.uk
28 Oct
A Spooktacular Fairground Foray at The Heights Primary School, Reading
Join a brick or treat Halloween adventure and help solve the mystery with all the fun of the fair! For LEGO fans aged 5+. 9:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
28 Oct
Family Fun Day: The Little Mermaid at The Watermill Theatre, Newbury
With craft activities, a mysterious trail around our gardens, a storyteller to listen to and much more, this isn’t a day to be missed. 10am-2pm watermill.org.uk
28 Oct Hickory Dickory Dock at Shaw House, Newbury
A merry slapstick two-person show, starring glove puppets, silly museum curators, dozy delivery drivers, a magnificent clock and that song you’ve all been waiting for! 11am/1pm westberkshireheritage.org
28 Oct 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
28 Oct
Natural History Museum presents Dinosaurs Live at The Hexagon, Reading
Go on a pre-historic journey to the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods and watch the life-like dinosaurs come alive. 12:30pm whatsonreading.com
28 Oct
A Spooktacular Fairground Foray at Sonning Common Village Hall
It is the 31st of October and the funfair is in Bricksville. Master Builder has been called out to help fix one of the rides but when he arrives it seems he is going to need more than his toolbox. 2:30pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk
28-30 Oct
Stick Man at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Featuring a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves. cornexchangenew.com
29 Oct
Stick Man Pre-show Workshop at the Corn Exchange Newbury
spookily good craft, making a monster from a painting stone and acrylic paint pens. 10am-3pm westberkshireheritage.org
29 Oct
A Spooktacular Fairground Foray at Reading Town Hall
It is the 31st of October and the funfair is in Bricksville. Master Builder has been called out to help fix one of the rides but when he arrives it seems he is going to need more than his toolbox. 11:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
29 Oct Snow White, Rose Red, Bear Brown at South Street Arts Centre, Reading
A new show using puppets, storytelling, original music and a fantastical fairytale forest. 11:30am/2pm whatsonreading.com
30 Oct
Arts Award in a Morning at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury Three fun-filled sessions at central Newbury venues! 10am-12:30pm cornexchangenew.com
30 Oct
The Spooktastic Halloween Show at Kenton Theatre, Henley
Get ready for a fast-paced, actionpacked show full of catchy songs, toe-tapping dances, magical surprises, outrageous comedy characters, and classic panto-style mayhem. 11:30am/2pm thekenton.org.uk
30 Oct Grandad Anansi by Elayne Ogbeta at South Street Arts Centre, Reading
With captivating songs and joyous dancing, Grandad Anansi is an uplifting tale of love, courage and letting go that celebrates storytelling on Jamaican culture and the Windrush generation. 2pm whatsonreading.com
30 Oct Dragon Hunt! at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury Family-friendly event involving a FREE dragon hunt through a dark or dimly lit museum – please bring a torch. 5:15pm-7pm westberkshireheritage.org
31 Oct
Crafty Kids at Halloween at Made by Tamalia, Reading You will be making spooky masks and glowing pumpkin lanterns in the studio this Halloween. 10am-12pm madebytamalia.co.uk
31 Oct
Children’s Halloween Mask Making at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Join Gemma Kirby in Frankenstein’s Craft Laboratory in the Balcony Bar to create a spooky Halloween mask in time for trick or treating. 10:15am cornexchangenew.com
31 Oct Bach to Baby Family Concert at Reading Minster Tots dance, roam about and revel in the wonder of live music, while you hear top notch performances by outstanding musicians. 11am whatsonreading.com
Get creative and make a Stick Man friend to take home with you. 12:30pm/3:30pm cornexchangenew.com
29 Oct
Family Activity Day at Shaw House, Newbury
Do you need a new decoration to display for Halloween? Join this
31 Oct
Horrible Histories at the Corn Exchange Newbury It’s time to prepare for Horrible Histories live on stage with the acclaimed production of Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians! 1:30pm/4pm cornexchangenew.com
