Families Thames Valley East Issue 69 Nov-Dec 2013

Thames Valley East November/December 2013 - Issue 69

Christmas Special WHERE TO FIND SANTA AND MUCH MORE INSIDE...

100S OF FESTIVE WHAT'S ON IDEAS...

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The really useful magazine for parents of children between 0 and 12 Packed with information and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

in this

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News & Info Clubs & Classes News Education News Christmas Gift Guide Families editor’s gift guide for kids Thinking outside the (gift) box How to help your child overcome shyness Panto Special Interview with Basil Brush What's On Christmas What's On Where to find Santa Competitions Christmas Crafts How to keep the kids amused Ed's Reading Room Do you need a Doula?

Mums Who Mean Business Classifieds web: FamiliesTVEast.co.uk tel: 01628 627586 fax: 08717 146 305 (calls cost 10p/min) e-mail: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editor: Claire Winter circulation: 19,000 next issue: January/February 2014 due out: January 3, featuring: Children's Parties & Health

copy/advertising deadline: December 1

Cover Photo: Lovelight Studios. email: lovelightstudios@sky.com or call: Sheridan Stone 07973 121737 or Victoria Baptiste 07958 722259. web: lovelightstudios.carbonmade.com

twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Now that the half term and Halloween fun is over, the kids (and some grownups) can get really excited about Christmas! We’ve got loads of festive fun in this issue and some great competitions on page 25. Crafts from Messy Monets on page 26 and most importantly where to find Santa on page 24. Don’t forget that you can visit our great website www.familiestveast.co.uk to find out what’s on, recent news and to search our detailed directories.You can also follow us on twitter @familiestve and like us on facebook. www.facebook.com/familiestve to get access to exclusive competitions.

Whatever you do, have fun and we’ll see you in the New Year with our health and children’s parties issue.

Downton star’s plea for local children’s charity Actress Joanna Froggatt who plays Anna May Bates in the incredibly popular ITV drama Downton Abbey is calling for people to donate as much as they can to Rosie’s Rainbow Fund.

She says, “I am proud to be a patron of Rosie's Rainbow fund, which is an incredible local children's charity doing vital work with children suffering from serious and terminal illnesses and disabilities.

The fund not only supports these children but also their families.”

“Rosie's Rainbow fund has been in place for ten years to help support families at the most testing times of their lives. When long stays in hospital and constant care are a necessity the fund helps provide respite care, music therapy for children and therapy and support for their parents. Unfortunately our charity is at risk because funds are sadly lacking. Please, please dig deep and help us, to

help support these families.”

The charity was set up in 2003 following the tragic death of 11 year old Rosie Mayling. Rosie suffered from vasculitis, a rare disease affecting the blood vessels and it was her wish to help children in hospital.

At the moment the charity provides a lifeline for thousands of sick children and distressed parents in hospitals in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. They also fund bereavement support for couples who have lost a child.

Why not hold a bake sale or sponsored walk or ask your school or workplace to make Rosie's Rainbow Fund their charity for 2014? Share your fundraising ideas on their Facebook page or check out their website www.rosiesrainbowfund.co.uk.You can donate through JustGiving or VirginGiving or in whatever way you can.

Charity uses art to inspire young people A local Windsor charity is offering courses in the arts to children who find mainstream school a challenge. Everyday Arts is a not-for-profit organisation that inspires young people to discover their brilliance through a unique learning programme of theatre, dance, film, and alternative education.

The charity works with all children and welcomes them into their Drama, Dance and Film classes, but very much pride themselves in their Green Room Project, which is set- up for School Refusers and children with statements of Special Educational Needs (SENs). These include children who refuse to go to school as they are suffering from the effects of

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bullying, abusive behaviour, depression and anxiety. The Green Room aims to ‘start a path’. Not only providing students with an inspirational learning environment, but a wide range of therapeutic, creative, sporting and social opportunities.

The Green Room now offer GCSE’s and BTEC qualifications.

To find out more go to www.everydayarts.co.uk

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News & Info BOOK NOW for advertising in our Jan/Feb 2014 issue Due out Jan 3rd email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Charlotte’s Childminding

Spaces Available Complete service catering for all your childs needs in a fun and friendly environment Tel: 01753 645121 or 07794 036760 email: charlotteg1982@googlemail.com

Against Bullying National Anti-Bullying Week takes place 18-22 November this year, with the theme ‘The Future is Ours: Safe, Fun and Connected.’ The Anti-Bullying Week website (www.antibullyingweek.co.uk) is packed with resources for schools, parents and children, plus online workshops, practical resources and short films on how to survive bullying. You can also join the Anti-Bullying Roadshow which tours schools, youth clubs and parents groups throughout the UK during November.

Powerful, fun and exciting, the Roadshow includes music, science, strategies and up-

to-date research and information on bullying. Check out the website too for their Anti-Bullying Village for Kids and Teens – a virtual space created by young people for young people where you can interact with others, as well as find out about events on school bullying, violence, racism and xenophobia through workshops, young people’s conferences and exhibitions.

National Adoption Week

Cupcake Decorating Parties Making Cupcake Decoration fun for children aged between 6 and 16 • 1 demonstrated themed cupcake • 3 free design cupcakes starting with piped buttercream swirls • 1 cupcake to eat decorated by Cakin' Faerie

Making a space for a child in your life is an amazing thing to do. It is also a big decision and there is a lot to think about and learn.

Find out more during National Adoption Week which takes place 4-11 November this year. Since its launch in 1997, National Adoption Week has gone from strength to strength, reaching people across the UK who want to know more about adoption.

It is important to remind people about the

difference adoption can make to a child’s life. It also attracts people wanting to find out about their own adoption or about a child they put up for adoption. The National Adoption Week website is packed with advice and support for people thinking of adopting a child, as well as help for adopted children, birth parents and adoptive parents. www.nationaladoptionweek.org.uk.

Each guest will receive a certificate of attendance and take home 4 vanilla cupcakes that they have decorated in a presentation box.

All equipment is provided and demonstrated along with a selection of decorations and sprinkles. All that Cakin' Faerie asks is that you can provide sufficient tables and chairs for all of your guests.

10 Almond Road, Burnham, Bucks SL1 8HA

Tel: 01628 543963 or 07979 807553 Email: suzanne@readmantcs.co.uk www.facebook.com/cakinfaerie

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Specialist shop and sensory room opens in Flackwell Heath Local educator in special needs Claire Tyler has opened ¿Making Sense? a specialist Sensory Room and shop for children and adults with special needs. They also sell beautiful baby gifts and toys too.

Claire has over 10 years experience working alongside mainstream and special needs children and adults with complex, multiple learning difficulties and disabilities.

“I decided to open the shop after lots of discussions with parents and families of children with special needs. It was clear they wanted somewhere dedicated to the requirements of their loved ones, a place to obtain gifts and resources to help, encourage and develop skills and enhance senses.”

“We aim to provide a friendly environment where you can come along, try our resources, buy sensory or learning

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products, experience our Sensory Room, purchase presents for a baby, or simply come along for some advice.

Find out more at www.makingsensefh.co.uk

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Grow your Tenner for HomeStart Slough Home-Start Slough is taking part in Localgiving.com’s ‘Grow your Tenner’ where for every £10 raised, the website will match it.

That means all donations up to £10 will be doubled, so a tenner becomes £20, or £22.50 with Gift Aid and £5 will become a tenner. A monthly donation of £5 will double up to £10 a month for six months.

To donate to Home-Start Slough and help double their money, click onto www.localgiving.com/homestartslough Home-Start Slough helps parents, with at least one child under five, who are suffering from stress and difficulties ranging from mental health issues, physical or mental disability, financial deprivation,

New manager for nursery in Maidenhead Experienced childcare professional Kellie Woolley is the new manager of Positive Steps Children’s Day Nursery in Maidenhead. It is situated in the heart of Maidenhead town centre and they offer childcare for babies and children from six weeks to five years from 7.30am to 6.15pm. They have recently relaunched three new educational programmes, which will promote communication and language throughout the whole of the nursery. Their staff are qualified and dedicated early years practitioners. The children enjoy a range of activities, inside and out, including swimming, French and music lessons. They also provide the children with healthy meals and the nursery recently awarded five stars by the Royal Borough.

They are holding an open day on Friday 22 November from 9-11am and 2-4pm.

For more information visit www.positivestepsnurseries.co.uk or call Kellie Woolley on 01628 623777 or email maidenhead@positivestepsnurseries.co.uk to arrange a visit.

family breakdown, single parenting, multiple births, abuse, neglect or isolation.

Their volunteers provide practical help, emotional support, friendship and fun to parents who are struggling to cope and who, for whatever reason, aren’t getting the help they need.

The charity helps anyone, regardless of background, and at present, there are up to 100 families waiting for vital help. To find out more go to hsslough.co.uk Help! I need a regular babysitter!

Winter is here and the party season is about to begin. Finding evening childcare can be a real problem at this time of year, but Smileys has the perfect solution.

Throughout the area they offer either a one-off or Unlimited Annual Membership evening babysitting service, allowing you to go out and enjoy yourselves with peace of mind, knowing that your children are being well looked after at home. All sitters are qualified drivers and carry Smileys’ photo ID cards.

Smileys can also help with nannies on a permanent or temporary basis, or even to go on holiday with you. They pride themselves on providing not only the best but consistent childcare, which is fundamental to all parents when looking for excellent, reliable care. All staff are CRB checked and Ofsted registered.

Please call 01628 675442, email enquiries@smileys-childcare.co.uk or www.smileys-childcare.co.uk for more info.

Bev’s Sugar Shack Customised hand-modelled edible cake and cupcake toppers to suit every occasion or theme. Modelled from delicious, high quality sugar paste.

07776218970 • bevssugarshack@gmail.com www.facebook.com/bevssugarshack

Where your little ones will blossom into independent confident learners in a wonderful environment, cared for by dedicated and qualified practitioners.

Classes in Maidenhead & Marlow

Come and meet our team and see what makes Poppies Day Nurseries different.

Bourne End Marlow Beaconsfield 01628 521522 01628 487772 01494 677116 www.poppiesdaynursery.com

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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News & Info Bucks party entertainer wins balloon modeller of the year Wayne Wonder the children’s entertainer, has won the first ever award for UK Balloon modeller of the year and was also part of a group that inflated their way in to the record books.

Blossom Ballet For a FREE taster class or for further information please contact Lucy:

07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com

Blossom Ballet is about having lots of fun and making new friends.

Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Birch Hill and Maidenhead.

Wayne Murphy attended Kidology UK, the country's original Children's Entertainer Convention earlier this year.

Whilst he was competing for the award he also joined a new world record attempt for the most amount of balloon animals made simultaneously in one place. Officials from the Guinness World of Records were in attendance and the world record was set - 239 balloon animals were made simultaneously in one venue.

To find out more about Wayne Wonder go to www.wayne-murphy.co.uk

Fantastic online shop for all your costume needs Stuck for a shepherd's costume or going to a Masked Ball? Theatrical Threads is a great local online store with a large range of Charlie Crow kids costumes suitable for dressing up as well as school activities such as World Book Day, Roald Dahl Day and Christmas Nativity Plays.

Also School history projects such as Vikings, Tudors and World War 1 centenary events for 2014. Masquerade Ball masks and stage accessories also available.

Go to www.theatricalthreads.co.uk to find out more.

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West End performer brings ‘razzle dazzle’ to children’s parties Professional performer and creator of Showstopper Parties, Mairi Cowieson, is kept busy entertaining children with singing, drama and dance, across Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

Showstopper Parties are different because Mairi has created her own unique stories, characters and songs for each theme.You can meet Petrified Pirate, Stumbleumpus and Fizzy Pop Fairy and join them as they go on amazing adventures, filled with brilliant themed games.

The party themes include: Princess and Pirates, Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Perfect Popstar and Mini Musicals, there is something suitable for every age group. Children and parents love the fast paced, energetic style of the parties and older kids can choose to finish with a performance, which gives them a sense of confidence and achievement.

Mairi was the Children’s Director on the Tony Award winning ‘South Pacific’ and has performed in a number of West End shows. Last Christmas Mairi directed ‘Beauty & the Beast’ at Reading Hexagon Theatre, starring Justin Fletcher MBE. To book your child’s next party contact Mairi on 07885 150034 or visit www.showstopperuk.com.

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Princess Clubhouse comes to town

Local art classes offer national qualifications for children Children attending Alekhya Art Classes in Maidenhead and Slough can now participate in the ‘Discover’ ( Age 5+) and ‘Explore’ ( Age 7+) Art Awards offered by the Trinity College, London. The Art Classes will also assist advanced students who may want to do their Bronze, Silver and Gold National level Qualifications.

They are also proud to announce that one of their students, Madison Foxcroft, was recently awarded the Royal Borough Art Bursary 2013 for her portfolio.

They now plan to open a new class on Saturdays in Maidenhead and another one in Slough. They also support students who are building a portfolio, geared at specific scholarship opportunities in Visual Arts through small sized groups or 1 to 1 lessons.

For more information go to alekhyaartclasses.wix.com/maidenhead or find them on facebook.

Clubs & Classes News

Princess Clubhouse is a new weekly activity group for girls aged three to five years of age, held at a special themed Clubhouse at a top Slough/Windsor Hotel, every Saturday.

Your budding little Princesses will experience a magical world of arts, crafts, dancing, acting and Princess fun every time they enter the Clubhouse doors, from decorating giant Princess Castles to playacting in their Princess Drama Studio Sessions.

The most unique element, is that all of the activities are hosted by Princesses and their charming, dedicated assistants. They will ensure that your little ones are warmly welcomed, magically entertained and awestruck every Saturday! You can join by subscription or pay as you go, subject to availability and pricing. It would make a perfect Christmas present for any little girl.Visit www.princessclubhouse.com for more information.

Maidenhead Zumba instructor brings Zumbini to the UK! Zumba teacher Niki Kitt is the first teacher in the UK to launch Zumbini, a brilliant new class for children aged 0 to 3 and their mums, in Maidenhead.

Whilst many people will have heard of the Zumba dance class craze for adults, bringing it to a younger audience is entirely new to this country.

It’s been developed for the Zumba organisation by early years expert Ashlee Cramer, who has a early learning centre in Miami. The class is designed for children 0 to 3 years old and their carers. The 45 minute classes offer dancing to some great tunes, play movement, fun props and the chance to play instruments.

Niki, a former professional singer and West End performer, went to New York to train to do Zumbini in June this year and is the first person in the UK to be qualified to teach it. She also teaches adult classes in Maidenhead and Cookham and choreographs all her of her own routines.

She is holding drop-in sessions at Pinkeys Green Community Centre, Blenheim Road, Maidenhead, SL6 5HE, every Thursday at 10am. To find out more about Zumbini classes or her adult classes email Niki_kitt@yahoo.co.uk, call 01628 673006/07775653051 or search for Niki Kitt through www.Zumba.com

JR Rugby is a rugby coaching specialist, which can offer: • After School Cubs in your child’s school • School Holiday Camps in your area • Birthday Party packages All our coaches are:

• CRB checked • RFU Qualified • First Aid Trained Whatever you choose JR Rugby for, you can be rest assured that your child will learn new or improve their skills in rugby in a fun, safe environment.

For more information please e-mail enquries@jrrugby.co.uk or call on 07809 222815 • www.jrrugby.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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Education News Improve 11+ vocabulary in a flash Looking to boost your child’s vocabulary ahead of the 11+ exam? Farquhar’s Vocabulary Flash Cards (www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk) have been specifically created to improve children’s verbal reasoning skills and to build confidence and vocabulary. Featuring carefully selected words collated from recognised 11+ material, the cards are available as a pack of four sets which together build a bank of challenging vocabulary, synonyms, antonyms and compound words. Easily portable in small sets, they are perfect for vocabulary practice on the go. An invaluable time-saving resource for busy parents.

Herries help to raise over £1000 for African Charities

Ignite your child’s passion for learning Bright Sparks Education Centre in Marlow is launching a range of new courses to help children develop the essential skills they need to succeed at secondary school.

Company owner Julie Bennet, who has been a tutor for over 30 years says, “We believe that children progressing into, and through, secondary school need the key skills of touch typing and effective revision to gain the most out of their secondary education. We therefore offer touch typing courses and interactive revision skills workshops to give children the best possible start to their secondary education, and beyond. We are fully committed to ensuring that every child

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reaches their full potential in a happy and secure learning environment.”

The centre provides a wide range of tuition for children aged five to 16. It has been established for over five years and they have a proven track record in teaching pupils of all abilities.

They have a dedicated, well-equipped classroom and can provide individual or group tuition for Maths and English, 11 plus and Common Entrance, plus courses to help children with Dyslexia,The Touch Type and Read and Spell.

For further information, please visit www.brightsparksmarlow.co.uk.

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Herries in Cookham Dean contributed to raising £1060 in total for the charities Africa Turns Green and Conservation Through Public Health, by holding a Taste of Africa event at the school in October.

One of Uganda’s leading Wildlife vets Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka was the guest of honour. The event was organised by Sarah Parfitt from Parfitt Media with the help of many generous local sponsors in Cookham.

Earlier in the day pupils from Herries, Cookham Rise and Holy Trinity got to meet Dr Gladys and hear about her groundbreaking work with mountain gorillas.

She received a lot of media interest and is pictured here at BBC Berkshire with Anne Diamond and the headmistress of Herries, Sophie Green.

Africa Turns Green showcases African green entrepreneurs and aims to raise wider awareness about environmental issues affecting the continent. To find out more go to www.africaturnsgreen.org or www.ctph.org

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Education News Meet the Headteacher…

One of the country’s flagship free schools Holyport College is set to open its doors in September 2014 in Holyport. It’s being dubbed a ‘mini Eton’ because of the relationship it will have with the prestigious school. Walter Boyle is the school’s new headteacher and is due to start his position in January next year, Families caught up with him to ask him about the new school.

1.You are starting as head teacher at one of the country's flagship free schools Holyport College in January 2014, are you excited about your new role?

I am very much looking forward to relocating to Holyport. The day that the College opens its doors to pupils will be a very special day. Then we begin the real work of engaging children in learning, creating opportunities and preparing them for a future full of possibilities. That's what we are committed to doing and that is very exciting.

2. Millions of pounds are being invested in the school but how many local children will really benefit from a place at the school?

There are only 20 day places available to year 7 children and 44 to year 9.

Over time, hundreds of local children will benefit from attending Holyport College. We are going to be small to start with, but we will be around for a long time. We do want to be a school at the heart of our local community and I hope that the local area will see the benefits of having us. Not only do we want our pupils to do well in school, but we want them to learn the value of giving something back to society and you'll be seeing us out and about in the local and wider community playing our part.

3. Can local children apply for boarding places and why would boarding benefit them?

There may be some local children who decide to board. Boarding encourages an independence and self-reliance and produces mature and confident young people. The relationship between staff and pupils at a boarding school is also different as we all live together, look out for each other and become a community together.

Boarding is fun and there are opportunities to try activities which otherwise one wouldn't have had the chance or confidence to do. As well as all that, having staff around in the evening who can help you with your homework isn't a bad thing.

4. How will the school differ from other state schools?

Boarding will make us different from the vast majority of state schools. However, we will also have an extended day during which pupils will have the opportunity to try out a range of cocurricular activities and develop skills and interests which we otherwise would not have the time to do. Our partnership with Eton College will allow us to use many of its facilities and there are plans for some of the Eton College boys to act as mentors to our pupils. Like any state school, we aim to give our pupils an outstanding classroom experience which leads to them getting the best grades possible, and certainly beyond their expectations.

5.The school will work in close partnership with Eton College, will you also work with other local schools?

I am very much looking forward to working with other state schools in the area. I am really

passionate about school staff sharing good practice with each other and hope that Holyport College staff will have the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues in other schools so we can all learn from each other. No school can stand in isolation and I look forward to working with head teacher colleagues in the area as well as with the support services from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

6. According to your twitter feed over 1000 people have registered interest in the school, when will parents and students be able to visit the school?

The building work has begun and is on schedule. We don't take possession of the building until next summer. Children will find out in March 2014 if they have secured a place at the College and I'll ask the builders then if it would be possible at some stage for us to have an open day to see the progress being made. If they can't accommodate us, we'll all have to wait until the summer.

7. What do you think about Michael Gove's reforms, are they happening too fast for education to keep up?

Obviously, I'm in support of free schools.

From what I have read, the local area is projecting a shortfall of secondary school places within the next few years, so we hopefully will be alleviating some of the pressure that is about to be felt.

8. As an educator, what do you think is the most important thing you can teach a student?

To aim to be the best person they can be and work hard to achieve it. www.holyportcollege.org.uk

BrightSparks Education Centre in Marlow provides a range of tutoring services for children from ages 5 to 16. We are committed to ensuring that every child reaches their full potential in a happy and secure learning environment.

BrightSparks offers: • Weekly Maths and English tuition for ages 5 – 16 • Weekly 11+ and Common Entrance Exam tuition • 11+ weekend workshops and intensive holiday courses • Revision skills workshops for Years 6 – 11 • Touch typing courses for all ages • Key Stage 3 & 4 'dip in, dip out' tutoring for a range of subjects

www.brightsparksmarlow.co.uk Telephone: 01628 627 586

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Christmas...

All they want fo Ever wondered what to get a one-year-old boy now you’ve got teenagers, or your pre-teen goddaughter when your kids are still happy with Stickle Bricks? Here at Families we’ve got over 50 children between us, so we’ve got together to make a list of the toys that our children have really loved and played with to help you get a winning present this year.

Babies You’ve heard it before, but it’s not worth spending a lot. How about a donation to a savings account and something small like stacking cups, soft toys (Jellycat have some gorgeous ones), fabric books or a new rattle? If you want to spend a bit more, try a play gym or door bouncer, musical toys or something from VTech with lots of flashing lights and noises!

Toddlers By now toys are getting more exciting, and sometimes quite large. One of the favourite toys for this age group is a Little Tikes Cosy Coupe – played with for years, even when they’re almost too big to get out of it! You can often get these in quite good condition secondhand, too. Just as big, and as popular, is a toy kitchen complete with plastic fruit and veg that they can cut up and serve to mum and dad for tea. The HappyLand range from ELC (www.elc.co.uk) is great for this age group – choose from a rocket set, train set, pirate ship, fairy treehouse or the very sweet Rose Cottage. And again anything musical is also sure to be popular. Or try colouring (mess free with Aqua Draw) and sticker books (Usborne First Sticker Books series, www.usbornebooksathome.co.uk for lots and lots of stickers).

Preschool girls At this age a lot of little girls are crazy about dolls – try a soft rag doll like Bigjigs or the Manhattan range, where you can also buy outfits and accessories. Or how about a dolls’ pram or buggy? ELC has a good selection. Peppa Pig is perennially popular – choose from playsets, puzzles, books, dvds and much more. The Disney Princesses are also sure to be a hit – dolls, dressing-up sets, playsets or stationery (www.disneystore.co.uk). My Little Pony has also stood the test of time.

Preschool boys Favourites that seem to be played with for a long time are dressing-up outfits (doctor, fireman, cowboy and pirate) and role-play kits like a doctor’s case or a workbench with lots of nails to hammer down. Thomas the Tank Engine and Brio trainsets are loved by some little boys, and it’s often easy to find them in good condition on ebay. Dinosaurs are loved by all – ELC have some plastic models of all sizes, or try www.nhmshop.co.uk/dinosaurs. Or how about some pop-up tents and tunnels for getting rid of energy? Duplo is also a good bet, choose from basic bricks or themed sets like a fire station, zoo or farm.

Girls 5–8 By now imaginative play has really kicked off – forever popular and loved by many are Sylvanians, choose from families, playsets or a vast array of houses to put them in. Lego Friends is also a good bet. Playmobil has a big range to choose from – farms, fairies, hospitals and more – you might just want to consider constructing it beforehand to avoid lots of time spent fiddling around with small bits on Christmas Day. Craft kits are also popular with this age group, try Hama Beads, ELC for complete, easy-to-follow kits for decorating mermaids, jewellery boxes etc and Yellow Moon (www.yellowmoon.org.uk). And don’t forget Barbie and Build-a-Bear (local stores in High Wycombe, Uxbridge, Milton Keynes, Reading or visit www.buildabear.co.uk).

Boys 5–8 Lego, lego and more lego, in all its various forms – bricks and wheels, Lego City, Harry Potter, The Hobbit and Star Wars – is always popular and played with for years. For kids that like to build, they’ll love a brand new toy called Bizzy Bitz, it has featured on the Dragon’s Den and is the only toy in the world, which with only its basic shapes (no custom made pieces), can create accurate models of absolutely anything and everything (www.bizzy-bitz.com), go to page 25 for your chance to win a box! Boys also love Playmobil – pirates, knights, vehicles and more to appeal to every interest. Or how about a

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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

or Christmas… wooden fort, garage, fire station or workbench – Pintoy make some lovely ones. Construction toys of all shapes and sizes – Geomags panels and magnets, wooden bricks and blocks – are also popular. Or try Hot Wheels, Transformers, a marble run or Scalextric.

Girls 9–11 While still happy to play with toys, by now girls often love something which makes them feel grown-up – try pretty slippers, little bags, jewellery, scarves, picture frames or a gift card from Claire’s Accessories.

DIY baking sets made up of fairy-cake cases, sprinkles, icing tubes, cutters, apron and a book all put in a pretty tin make a lovely gift. Crafts are still popular – the Klutz range is easily available and a bit more unusual. Or how about Harumika (www.harumika.eu), you dress mannequins in different outfits using bits of material and can upload the creations online. Scrap-booking is often also popular, you could include a voucher for a local class. And of course no matter how many pens, pencils and notepads they have, stationery is always a winner!

Boys 9–11 If they’re into sports, it’s easy – kit, clothes, books, dvds on their favourite team or a moment in sporting history are all likely to go down well. Or how about a football goal, kite, skateboards, or cool clothes to protect elbows etc.

...all wrapped up

Also worth a look are Ripstyle waveboards, which come in a variety of styles and colours (www.waveboardsale.com/collections/ripstyleboards). If they’re musical, a drum kit or guitar (do check with the parents first). Or how about kits to make something (Letterbox have a good selection, or try www.sciencemuseum.org.uk). And if they’re into the current obsession of computer game Minecraft, Amazon has a good range of toys to complement it like a torch, collectable figures and a Lego game.

Older kids It might be a case of clubbing together for a high-ticket item like a new bike, but no matter how old you are you still need something to play with on Christmas Day. How about something fun like a hula hoop – you can’t be a grumpy teenager when you’re hooping and there are lots of tutorials on You Tube to learn some cool tricks. Or how about an e-reader, you could always add some of their favourite ebooks – for reluctant readers the novelty factor might just work. And if all else fails, there’s always an iTunes voucher; which leads us to Apple. There’s no denying it an iPod, iTouch or iPad often feature on most kids’ Christmas lists. Maybe they should come with a warning from Santa – to prevent self-destruction, only use for an x hours a day when your parents say it’s ok. If Apple products are out of your price range the good news is that budget tablets have also been launched this year that are a lot cheaper, Argos has launched MyTablet for £99.99 and Tesco a Hudl, which retails for £119.

Perennial favourite Everyone who has one says that a trampoline really is the best thing they’ve ever bought even in the winter. Buy the biggest your garden can accommodate and make sure you’ve got a safety net. Try Just Outdoor Toys, www.justoutdoortoys.co.uk or John Lewis (www.johnlewis.co.uk).

Games we all love • Orchard Toys board games like Tell the Time, Bus Stop, and Tummy Ache.

• Snakes and Ladders • Tiddlywinks • Guess Who? • Junior or adult Monopoly • Connect 4 • Uno • For children of about 7 or 8 and over, why not try Rummikub – a little bit like Scrabble but with numbers, it’s for dyslexic children but not a specific SEN game.

• For 10+ yrs, how about Balderdash; you get obscure words and if you guess the real definition you get points.

• Cluedo (Go to page 25 to win Kloo, the board game which helps you learn French).

Every bookcase should have one! Our top books for every age • Babies and toddlers: The Usborne That’s Not My… series; The Hungry Caterpillar; Dear Zoo;The Mole Who Knew It Was None of His Business; & Spot and Maisy flap books.

• Preschool: Anything by Julia Donaldson; The Tiger Who Came To Tea; I Will Not Ever Never Eat A Tomato; Each Peach Pear Plum;That Rabbit Belongs To Emily Brown; & Harry And His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs.

• 5 to 8 years: Anything by Roald Dahl & Michael Morpurgo; The Faraway Tree; Daisy And The Trouble With Christmas; Ratburger; Dr Proctor’s Fart Powder; & the Spy Dog series.

• 9 to 11 years: Harry Potter, all of them; Northern Lights; Skulduggery Pleasant;The Ingo Chronicles; Percy Jackson And The Lightning Thief; Alex Rider series; The Secret of Platform 13; & The Hobbit.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

• Kids Art Clubs • Pottery Painting • Adult Art Classes & Workshops • Corporate Meetings & Events • Parties 12‐6pm Tues‐Fri (after‐school parties & pottery painting!)

10am‐5pm Sat & School Hols

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

11

Gift Guide

Thinking outside the (gift) box

There’s always someone on your Christmas list who you struggle to buy for – either they have everything, or don’t know what they want! Here’s a selection of more unusual presents for all ages, to help take the pain out of shopping for the awkward squad.

Transform photographs into your own unique wallpaper or art

Life on a Wall uses your favourite photos to create bespoke wallpaper. All you have to do is upload your images and they will custom design and print you a wallpaper with a personal photo collage. In two to three weeks you could have your very own wall of fame, from £80 per square metre. They can also create a beautiful piece of art from your photographs. They have three collage designs to choose from and mounted on premium quality clear acrylic with hidden fixings, this is a wonderful way to display precious memories and a great contemporary alternative to canvas. Collages come in a variety of sizes and prices start from £265.

Gift vouchers are also available. Call 01628 667 116 or email lifeonawalluk@aol.com for more information. www.lifeonawall.co.uk

Monthly subscription boxes Instead of a magazine subscription, why not buy a monthly subscription box – there are loads out there to choose from. A great idea for crafty kids (aged 3-8) comes via The Rainy Day Box Company, who will deliver a box full of crafty items, to make at least 3 projects, direct to your door for £6.99 per month.

Beauty obsessives might like a monthly beauty box subscription – one of the best is Birchbox. For £10 a month you get beautifully wrapped samples of make-up and luxe beauty and lifestyle products. If you like the products, from the likes of Laura Mercier, Weleda and Bioderma, you can buy them from their webshop, earning points. www.birchbox.com

Kiss and Make up sessions Kiss and Make up have great seasonal packages bringing professional make up to the comfort of your own home. For one month only they are offering a special mother and daughter Christmas package where you can share the experience of mastering the art of make-up together, preparing you both for the Christmas festivities. There’s also their ‘Christmas stocking filler’ - a Make up Artist

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

will come to your home to apply your makeup.You might prefer to arrange a party for you and your friends, or a treat for your little lady and her girlfriends. It’s the perfect professional touch to your appearance for that meaningful occasion, building a more confident, flawless ‘you’.

Call Sheridan on 07973 121 737, or email kissandmake-up@sky.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

Create a personalised image from WordArt Create a unique personalised gift, by sending Dinky Fingerprint a list of things that the recipient loves most - wine, football, cooking, and cars. They will then turn it into a stylish graphic framed poster incorporating the list.

There are 2 options available – a large framed poster for £35, and a smaller box frame, great for kids, for £25.

Just think of the words that remind you of that person and they will create an incredible personal piece of artwork that will stay treasured forever.

Go to www.dinkyfingerprint.co.uk or call 01628 623386 to find out more.You can also find them on facebook.

Make your own animation with Crystal Films This unique gift experience for children uses professional editing equipment to turn their drawings into animations. The pictures are scanned and digitally cut out to make them move and interact with other characters in the stories. The movies are sent out on BluRay or DVD and are much more affordable than you'd expect.

A special story is available for Christmas children send in their drawings of elves and reindeer that then are incorporated into an animated story, where they help Santa save Christmas and deliver presents in time for Christmas morning. An example can be seen on the website.

For more information visit www.crystalfilms.co.uk, email crystalfilms@hotmail.co.uk or call Chris on 07736225014.

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

REDROOFS THEATRE SCHOOL 26 Bath Road Maidenhead SL6 4JT, and School Lane Littlewick Green SL6 3QY, and now at Novello Theatre nr Ascot SL5 9NE.

*** Redroofs Part-Time school offers an exciting choice of part-time evening and weekend classes for ages 2-18 years, productions and workshops now listed on our website. From baby ballet through to adults musical theatre, evening and Saturday morning and afternoon theatre school, acting schools, musical and acting productions dance, singing, acting and media classes for all abilities.

*** Redroofs is the place to learn from the very best in the business, to grow in confidence and to discover and achieve your child’s potential in a friendly atmosphere, in our own purpose built studios and two theatres.

Musical theatre Saturday schools from ages 4-18, RAD ballet, ISTD tap and modern dance, Hip hop and street dance, Singing and creative drama, baby dance classes, Production classes, screen acting and audition skills. See our website for full timetable of evening and Saturday classes.

*** Redroofs Full-Time school co-ed academic and vocational for years 5-13 inclusive.

Redroofs 6th form BTEC musical theatre and teacher training.

Redroofs agency offers representation for all our pupils. Pupils are currently appearing in West End shows Matilda, Oliver, Public Enemy, in feature films, numerous TV and commercials, voice recordings.

Call us: 01628 674092 • Email us: info@redroofs.co.uk Find us on Facebook and Twitter

www.redroofs.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Health Children’s parties and social get togethers can be a really worrying occasions for your child if they are shy. Take Holly’s experience with her six year old son, Thomas, “Thomas is a lovely little boy but when he met anyone he hadn’t met before he was unable to speak, he lost all his manners and just looked at the floor.” This is not unusual.

Shyness is a perfectly normal trait in childhood, but when lives become restricted by shyness, we must take action as there is no question that shyness robs us of opportunities that other people take for granted. The good news is that there are a lot of practical things that can gently encourage a shy child to be more outgoing.

Eva Winter Osteopath BSc (Hons), DPO • Providing safe and effective hands-on treatment for adults, children and babies • The Marlow Clinic, 1st Floor Crown House, Crown Road, Marlow, SL7 2QG

For more information T: 01494 482028 E: evaosteopathy@gmail.com W: evawinter.co.uk Registered with the General Osteopathic Council, British Osteopathic Association and Alumni for Paediatric Osteopathy

As Featured in Business Traveller

Get involved with Tai Total Fitness Boot Camp

Weight loss | Toning | Improving stamina | Nutrition advice All levels welcome | Men and women | One-to-one personal training also offered It’s great to work as part of a group to get motivated and push through fitness barriers you thought were insurmountable.

6 sessions for £55 and bookings are required in advance.

All you need is an exercise mat and a bottle of water.

Monday 10am 4 Marlow Road, Maidenhead Tuesday 8.15pm St Pirans School, Maidenhead

To find out more about Tai Total Fitness visit www.taitotalfitness.co.uk Call 07923 438 740 now or email info@taitotalfitness.co.uk

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Say goodbye to being shy: How to help your child overcome their shyness

By Elisabeth Dolton

Mixing in society Start by inviting one friend over for half an hour at home, then moving to more friends, more time and then outside the home.

Children learn social skills from watching others so model the kind of interactions you want to encourage: be warm and friendly with people you don’t know, introduce yourself to new people, ask people for help, and compliment friends.

Drama queens (and kings) Shyness doesn’t necessarily mean low self-esteem; it usually comes from fear or feeling worried about what other people think.

Simple acting techniques from drama classes soon equip children with the ability express themselves more clearly in front of others.

Equally, presenting ourselves in a confident manner by sitting up straight and making eye-contact, even when we don’t feel like it, will make any child feel bolder because of the positive way others will react to them.

Facing up to it Perhaps the most effective way to help your child to be less shy is to talk openly with them about it. Refer to situations that are daunting and empathise “sometimes I feel worried about speaking up at work, but I always make and effort and feel good afterwards”.

Holly added that she “used to read books to Thomas that had themes of facing fears or overcoming challenges”.

Dress Rehearsal Watch what situations trigger shyness in your child then role play them later at home, giving hints on how they can feel more courageous when next out in public. “Thomas always felt nervous going to birthday parties, so we decided to set up a party scene at home, using his favourite toys and acted out the different scenarios: giving the party boy their present; saying hello to other children; asking the adult where the toilet is; saying thank you on leaving. It worked a treat”, said Holly.

A karaoke machine or sing along DVD will encourage your child to be more adventurous with their speech and movement. Record them pretending to be a news reader, or presenter interviewing their ‘celebrity’ friend.

Lights, camera, action Trying new activities in a gradual way helps overcome shyness.

Holly had always been encouraging Thomas to try out new things, “I knew Thomas had achieved an improved level of outgoingness when in the end-of-term football lesson, Thomas waited 30 minutes for his turn to kick a ball through the cones and straight into the goal - in front of everyone. He has really come out of his shell”

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Health

GYMTOTS! PRE-SCHOOL GYMNASTICS

FUN + SAFE + CHALLENGING Classes for Children walking to 3 years plus.

Taking trays of nibbles round guests, being photographer at a family occasion, going into a shop and asking for the price are all great ways to take their mind off their shyness. But don’t force them into doing things that make them uncomfortable, play to their strengths. Your child’s shyness will vanish if he is encouraged to get better at things he already excels at.

Above all, being calm will sooth many a shy child. Relax Kids (www.relaxkids.com) sell a range of CDs that provide ‘chill skills’ that relax children and as a result boosts their confidence.

Our attitude is crucial We all want our children to outgrow their shyness and latest research indicates that how parents respond to shyness is what makes the difference. Labelling our child as ‘shy’ would certainly be discouraged; they often turn into self fulfilling prophecies. In the same sense, we should always avoid dismissing any feelings of shyness e.g. “don’t be silly, big boys don’t get shy”. Comments like this lead children to feel that their worries are not valid, leading to anxiety. Be supportive by combining empathy with confident assertions, “Ahh, I can see you’re feeling a bit worried, but I’m really confident you’ll be able to handle it”.

A child's ability to comfortably relate to a wide variety of people is one of the most important ingredients to happiness and success. The thing to remember is that the majority of children will find their way through all of this with a bit of guidance, and will soon be waving their hands in the air to answer questions, belting out songs during group sings, and being the first in the queue for trying new things.

Sources • www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/advice/factfile • www.babycenter.com • www.psychologytoday.com/blog “I'm shy, paranoid, whatever word you want to use.” Johnny Depp “I was just genuinely shy. I'd always been a shy kid.” Elton John I know this sounds strange, but as a kid, I was really shy. Painfully shy.”

Jim Carrey "Well, a lot of people don't know this about me, but I'm actually shy around people I don't know. I would just say with my first concert, my first tour, I didn't really talk onstage. I was like, 'Thank you, I love you guys,' or whatever. But now I've just kind of learned to work a crowd." Avril Lavigne

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Enjoy participating with your child in our safe indoor environment with its exciting up-to-date play equpment, based within the Altwood School, Maidenhead. Every day at 10am from Wednesday to Saturday. Our programme has been developed through more than 29 years’ experience with young children and their parents. Gymtots will enable your child to gain confidence by expanding their physical ability, coordination and social skills, with your involvement and under the guidance of our experienced staff. Our advanced class for 3 to 4 years plus, without parent participation, on Wednesdays at 3pm, is more structured and builds upon the earlier classes.

Telephone

07 957 223 124 for details

“Sarah has introduced me to and nurtured me through, post natal circuit classes, personal training, circuit classes, training for and running a half marathon and Pilates. She makes exercise safe, fun and fit for purpose.

She spends a lot of time making sure she understands you and your needs, limits and physical state and works to push you safely to get you to a fitter and stronger place.” Sarah Nutbrown 2013

Go Figure offers a range of personal Training both on land and in the water, and a range of classes to suit all abilities and lifestyles.

• Aqua PT – The No Sweat Workout!

Improve cardiovascular fitness, lose weight and tone up all in the therapeutic environment of water.

• 1 to 1 Personal Training • Pregnancy Pilates, Postnatal Pilates and General Pilates.

Pilates is a total body conditioning regime that works by rebuilding strength, flexibility and improving your body’s posture at any stage of life.

• Let’s Go Mummy Buggy Class This is a buggy class focusing on exercises which will help rebuild and strengthen your body, helping you drop some of those extra baby pounds along the way.

• Pelvic Floor Course.

Learn how to activate and strengthen your pelvic floor, and reduce your waist line in the process! Baby welcome For more information please visit

www.gofigure.org.uk or call Sarah on: 07938 588029

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

15

Panto Special

My fellow stars are going to be Britain’s Got Talent’s Kevin Cruise, who’ll be playing Wishee Washee and Steven Blakeley, who will play the hilarious Widow Twankey! I can’t wait to work with them.

2.You’ve starred in Panto since the sixties, what do you like best about it?

The true magic of pantomime is the live element - it’s the boys and girls, it’s the anticipation, when the curtain comes up and you hear the big whoo from the audience, cheering the heroes and booing the baddies. Often it’s a child’s first experience of theatre and if it stops them playing their XBOX305 or whatever they are called, all the better. It also allows grownups to be children again.

After a tiny, weeny career break of 20 years - I spent most of that on a beach you know - I came back on to CBBC to boost their ratings and we did 78 episodes of The Basil Brush show. I also won the Weakest Link Pantomime special four years ago and beat Christopher Biggins.You see, they thought I was daft as brush but in fact I was cunning as fox.

3. Who’ve you most enjoyed working with in Panto?

Christopher Biggins, we have worked together three times, we are like the little and large show. We know each other’s comedy timing perfectly and we work really well together.

I also did work with a most wonderful fairy, the late, lovely Bernie Nolan. I was Buttons to her Fairy Godmother in Dunstable, she will be missed so much by everybody. In Panto she was spectacular and best of all she always shared her mince pies with me!

4. What’s your favourite Panto line?

Boom Boom! Where’ s the dressing room?

So I can have lie down!

5. How do you feel about rappers stealing your catchphrase?

Well, Boom, Boom shake the room, is a great song (he then sings to me for quite some time). Imitation is of course the best form of flattery. They don’t own the catchphrase it’s mine, but I don’t mind helping people up the slippery ladder of show biz.

6. How do you relax?

Well, we will be performing in shows from December 4 to January 5, and some days we will be doing three shows. So to keep my energy going I will probably dig a fox tunnel from the theatre and sneak in to Windsor Castle to get some treats. I will of course have Christmas day off and keep relaxed by having a natural Jacuzzi. Which involves eating a can of Baked Beans, taking a long bath and letting nature take its course!

7. How does it feel to be one of the BBC’s longstanding presenters, you’re up there with Sir David Attenborough?

I’m terribly proud, I went up to BBC Manchester, and in the main entrance they have quotes from all of the most famous BBC superstars, including the Doctor and many others and guess who’s quote is right in the middle? Mine!

8. If you could have three wishes, what would they be?

For my first wish I would be an X Factor Celebrity judge- I would give Simon Cowell a run for his money! My second wish would be to get a part in Strictly Come Dancing - I would do a marvelous Fox Trot! And my third wish would be to have three more wishes - of course!

After my encounter with the excitable fox, I had to have a little lie down in a dark room. If you want to book tickets for what promises to be a fantastic show, go to www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk or call 01753 853888. Aladdin will be on from December 4 to January 5.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Basil Brush, one of Britain’s favourite institutions, is coming to play the Genie in Aladdin at the Theatre Royal in Windsor. Claire Winter spoke to the TV superstar about his upcoming role.

nterviewing the wily fox is like speaking to Panto royalty - he has been treading the boards since the sixties. I loved him as a child and he is hysterically funny. After he tied me in knots about my name and whether I liked éclairs, he suggested they should be an electronic way of sending cakes - Boom Boom! The jokes, rhymes and ribaldry had me squirming in my chair -eventually I got down to asking him some questions.

1. Are you excited about starring in Aladdin at the Theatre Royal Windsor?

I am playing the genie, it’s a magical show and I am very much looking forward to it.

Windsor is a wonderful place, when I visited many years ago I met the royals in Windsor castle, when they were very little.

I met Lady Diana and her sons Prince William and Harry when they were just four and five years old, we had tea together and everything. Wouldn’t it be fantastic if William and Kate could bring baby George to the show?

I

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What’s On

Compiled by Trynke Casale Event times and dates to change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you set out.

Natural History Museum Ice Rink, South Kensington, London, Opening October 31.

Autumn Leaves guided walk, Burnham Beeches, Burnham, November 12

Peppa's Big Splash, Wycombe Swan, Wycombe, November 15-16.

NOVEMBER

Friday November 8 and Saturday November 9.

CARRIAGE RIDES through The Royal Landscape, Windsor Great Park, with Ascot Carriages, starting from outside the Savill Building, Savill Garden, Wick Lane, Englefield Green.

Choice of 5 routes. Prices ranging from £45 (25 min. ride) to £150 (90 min. ride) per carriage, depending on route. Also on November 12, 14, 16 and 30. Booking required. 07811 543019 or email info@ascotcarriages.co.uk.

Wednesday November 6. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, ‘Bring-your-baby’ screening at the new Windsor Picturehouse, Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor. 11am. Cost: £5 adults, under 12s free. Saturday November 9 at 11am: DR SEUSS’ THE LORAX. Saturday November 23 at 11am: MADAGASCAR 3. Saturday November 30 at 11am: ELF. ‘Family Fest’ (Saturday morning) tickets: adults £6, students £5, under 16s £4, family £18. Book via 01753 853888 or online at www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk/cinema.

Saturday November 9. BIRD AND BAT BOX MAKING at Allen’s Field, South Ascot. Access via Liddell Way, off Bouldish Farm Road, Ascot. 11am-3pm. With the RBWM Rangers. (Please bring some cash as some of the boxes may require payment.) All welcome. ascot.wildlife@gmail.com.

Saturday November 10. AUTUMN NCT NEARLY NEW SALE in Marlow, Great Marlow School, Bobmore Lane, Marlow. 1.30-2.45pm (1.15 entry for NCTmembers).

Quality nearly new items at bargain prices. Entry: £1. No pushchairs in hall. nct.org.uk.

Tuesday November 12. AUTUMN LEAVES, morning walk through the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. Guided walk along easy access paths.

Booking essential on 01753 647358; cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnhambeeches.

Tuesday November 12 and Wednesday November 13.

WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD at the Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading. Performances at 1.30pm, also at 10.30am on Wednesday. Brand new stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Lydia Monks’ farmyard adventure. Tickets: £12 each. 0118 9606060; readingarts.com.

Tuesday November 12 to Thursday November 14.

SNOW WHITE by the Vienna Festival Ballet. And on Friday November 15 and Saturday November 16. THE NUTCRACKER at the Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor. 7.30pm, also at 2.30pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. Two classic ballets to be enjoyed by the whole family. Tickets: £11 to £33. 01753 853 888; theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk.

Thursday November 14. DIWALI CELEBRATION at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 7.30pm. A celebration curated by dance teacher Devika Shangari. With craft stalls, performances and a retelling of the Diwali story.

01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Friday November 15 and Saturday November 16.

PEPPA PIG’S BIG SPLASH! at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. Performances at 4pm both days, also at 10.30am and 1pm on Saturday. Tickets: £13.50 to £15.50; under 16s £2 off. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk.

Wednesday November 20 and Thursday November 21. PEPPA PIG’S BIG SPLASH! At the Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading. 1pm & 4pm on Wednesday; 10am & 1pm on Thursday. Another chance to see Peppa Pig, this time in Reading. Tickets: £14.50, under 16s £2 off, family ticket £50.

0118 9606060; readingarts.com.

Saturday November 16. NCT NEARLY NEW SALE at the Windsor Leisure Centre, Stovell Road, Windsor. 1-2.30pm (12.45pm with valid NCT membership card). A Gold Standard Sale. Bag a bargain, just before Christmas. Entry: £1.

0844 243 6264; or visit facebook.com/SloughWindsorNCT; nct.org.uk.

Saturday November 16. WINTER NEARLY NEW SALE at the Egham Leisure Centre,Vicarage Road, Egham.

10.30am-12noon (10.15am for NCT members). Entry: £1.50.

For more info, contact sae.nct@hotmail.co.uk.

Saturday November 16. COUNTRYSIDE WORKOUT at Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. 10am-4pm. Join the NT ranger team for fun and fresh air doing a range of activities from scrub clearance to copping, all ages welcome. 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday November 16 to Friday December 20.

CHRISTMAS TREASURE HUNT AND COLOURING COMPETITIONS in Windsor Town Centre. Pick up a form from the Royal Visitor Information Centre in Windsor Royal Shopping. Many prizes to be won, including a family ticket to Legoland Windsor in 2014.

Saturday November 16. BE A VICTORIAN BRICKIE! At the Iver Environment Centre, London Road, Iver Heath.

Morning of traditional Victorian brick making and crafts activities. For ages 5-11. Booking essential. Contact: Dhush Selvarajah on 01895 270730 or email dhush.selvarajah@groundwork.org.uk.

Sunday November 17. THE END OF THE YEAR SHOW at the Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor. 2.30pm. Fast moving show of dance, drama and song with all the regular local youth theatre, dance and choir groups. Tickets: £8-£28. 01753 853 888; theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk.

Daily till Friday November 30. SELF-LED AUTUMN TRAILS at Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead.

10am-4pm. Pick up a free Family Trail from the Information Centre. Go on an adventure through the gardens to find the clues to complete your trail. 01628 550320; nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Weekends during November and December.

WILD AND WACKY ENTERTAINERS at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common.

Odds Farm’s crazy entertainers mixing magic, fun, entertainment and more, performing shows at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Free with admission. 01628 520188; oddsfarm.co.uk.

Opening on Thursday October 31, till Sunday January 5. NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICE RINK, South Kensington, London, plus lots of festive entertainment and activities: fairground carousel, junior rink for younger skaters and festive themed refreshments.

Special sessions for parents and toddlers on weekdays in November. For tickets and information, visit www.nhmskating.com or call 0844 847 1576.

Throughout November and December till January 5, during weekends and everyday during school holidays. THE BUBBLES, BALLOONS OR BUST SHOW at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell. For 4yrs+. Show times: 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3.15pm. Cost: £1.85 per person in addition to the main entrance price to the hands-on science and nature exhibition. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre Tuesday November 5 and Wednesday November 6.

SPECIAL TODDLER DAYS at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell. Art and craft theme for November is Fairy Tales. Cost: £6.50 per parent and toddler, and £1.50 for each additional toddler (up to a maximum of 3). 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre.

Saturday November 9. MARLOW BOTTOM FIREWORKS DISPLAY, on the Marlow Bottom Playing Fields. Gates open 5.30pm, fireworks at 7pm.

Saturday November 9. FREE CRAFT ACTIVITIES at the Nicholsons Centre, Maidenhead. Between 11am and 3pm. Make finger puppets from old envelopes.

Craft workshops for everyone. All materials supplied.

Enjoymaidenhead.com.

Email us your events to listings@familiestveast.co.uk

or to advertise email editor@familiestveast.co.uk or call 01628 672586

Telephone: 01628 627 586

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

17

What’s On

Please email listings@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.

Wild and Wacky entertainers at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, during November and December.

Festive Wreath Making, Windsor, December 4

Windsor on Ice, Windsor, opens December 13

Wednesday November 20. SIMPLY BUGGY WALK at the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. Start at 11am from the café and information point, Lord Mayor’s Drive. Baby and buggy walk through the Burnham Beeches. Register on 01753 647358. For more information call 07733 321789.

Wednesday November 20 and Thursday November 21. THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE by Tall Stories at the Camberley Theatre, Knoll Road, Camberley. Latest production of the Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler picture book. For everyone aged 4 and up.

Tickets: £10 each, groups of 10+ £7.50. 01276 707600; camberleytheatre.biz Saturday November 23. CLAY AND TEXTURE, workshop for ages 7+ at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 2–4pm. A hands-on, playful arts and crafts session. Cost: £15 per child. Booking essential. Contact Julie or Rita on 01628 682555; nordenfarm.org.

Saturday November 23. FIELD VOLE SURVEY at Wildmoor Heath, Crowthorn Road, Crowthorne.

10am–12noon. Take part in a survey for field voles at Wildmoor Heath. No experience necessary, suitable for all. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/parksandcountrysidevents.

Saturday November 23. FAMILY LIFE IN ANTIQUITY at the Reading Ure Museum, Department of Classics, Whiteknights, Reading. 2–4pm.

Learn how the ancients lived their lives at home.

Museum trail, plus craft activity afterwards. Booking essential. For children aged 6+. 0118 378 6990; reading.ac.uk/ure.

Sunday November 24. GO WILD ABOUT NATURE CLUB at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 2-4pm. Try 'wild weaving' and other forest school activities. Different activities each session. Next session: Sunday December 15. Cost: £4 per session. Booking essential. For ages 6+. 01494 421895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Sunday November 24. FAMILY CRAFT CHRISTMAS FLOWER WORKSHOP at Hands-On Art Adventures, St Lukes Road, Old Windsor. 11am-3pm.

Special parent/child Christmas wreath event provided by Janni Danielson of Flower Moment (www.flowermoment.com). Cost: £65 per parent and one child. This includes all materials, coffee/tea/juice and a light lunch. 01753 206265; hands-onartadventures.co.uk.

Sunday November 24. SANTA DASH in Swinley Forest, Bracknell, raising funds for Thames Hospice. Join the Santas on a 5km route through Swinley Forest.

Register online via thameshospice.org.uk or call 01753 848963.

Monday November 25,Tuesday November 26, and Thursday November 28 to Saturday November 30.

THE LION,THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE at the Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley. 7pm, also at 1pm on Saturday. CS Lewis’ magical world of Narnia brought to life by local students from StageWorks featuring song, dance, battles and fun for all ages. For tickets, contact: enquiries@stageworks.org.uk; 01491 877205.

Friday November 29. ASTRONOMY EVENING at South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. 7.30–9pm. Learn more about the night sky in a hands-on way. With the Reading Astronomical Society. Suitable for all. Cost: £2 donation.

Booking required on tel: 01344 416235.

Saturday November 30. HANDS-ON CONSERVATION at Lily Hill Park, Bracknell. 11am–3pm.

Coppicing and woodland management. Meet at the Running Horse pub car park, off London Road, Bracknell. Suitable for all ages. www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/takepridevolunteering Saturday November 30 and Sunday December 1. A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS at the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles.

10am-5pm. Special winter opening. Christmas decorations, local crafts stalls, craft activities and treats, festive fayre.

Tickets: adults £9, children (4-16 years) £5.50, under 4s free; family tickets available. 01494871117; coam.org.uk.

Sunday December 1 to Tuesday December 24.

WINDSOR AND ETON ADVENT CALENDER. Throughout Windsor and Eton. Like a children’s Advent Calendar, a different window or door is opened on a specially designed website and at 6.15pm promptly each evening a 15-minute live performance will take place at a particular location around the town centre. Performances will include songs, carols, music, poetry, book excerpts, notes from local history or folklore. For more information, visit www.windsor.gov.uk.

Sunday December 1 to Tuesday December 31. A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS at Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. 11am-3pm. See the Manor Christmas decorations, enjoy carols, music and readings plus fun family activities. Meet Father Christmas on the weekends. Normal admission applies.

01494 755579; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Wednesday December 4. FESTIVE WREATH MAKING at North Lodge, Runnymede, Windsor Road A308, Old Windsor, opposite the Tea Room. 10.30am-12.30pm and 1.30-3.30pm.

Learn how to make a wreath from natural materials, gathered locally. Supervised children welcome. Booking essential on 0844 249 1895. Cost: £15. 01784 432891; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Weekends during December (continuing into January and February), plus Monday December 23, and Friday December 27 to Monday December 30, Wednesday January 2 and Thursday January 3. WILD AND WACKY ENTERTAINERS at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common. Odds Farm’s crazy entertainers mixing magic, fun, entertainment and more. Free with admission. 01628 520 188; oddsfarm.co.uk.

Tuesday December 5 and Wednesday December 6.

SPECIAL TODDLER DAYS at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell. Art and craft theme for December is Woodland Animals. 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre.

Wednesdays plus weekends in December, starting on Wednesday December 4 and till Sunday December 22.

FATHER CHRISTMAS TRAIL in the grounds of Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead. 10am-1pm. Follow the trail around the grounds to find Father Christmas’s grotto. Cost: £5 per child.

01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Saturday December 7. HARVEST MOUSE NEST SEARCH at Larks Hill, off Harvest Ride, Warfield.

10am–12noon. Take part in a survey for Harvest Mouse nests. No experience necessary, suitable for all. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and footwear. Meet at Lark’s Hill car park.

01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Saturday December 7. SILK SCARF PAINTING, workshop at the River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley.

10.30am-12.30pm. For ages 7-11. Learn or develop your skills in silk painting to produce a beautiful scarf inspired by John Piper’s ‘Landscape of the Two Seasons’- a perfect Christmas gift! Cost: £10.50. Booking essential. 01491 415600; rrm.co.uk.

DECEMBER Throughout December. FREE ADMISSION into The Savill Garden, Wick Lane, Englefield Green. Open from 10am-4.30pm in winter. Closed on 24 and 25 December.

Festive horse and carriage rides through the Park during weekends in December too. 01784 435544; theroyalandscape.co.uk Sunday December 1. SANTA’S FUN RUN in Marlow, starting from Higginson Park at 10am. Warm up from 9.20am.

Fundraising 5K fun run, started by Sir Steve Redgrave, in aid of the South Bucks Hospice. Entrance is open to all and fun for everyone, spectators and entrants alike. Santasfunrun.org.

Sunday December 1 to Friday December 20.

CHRISTMAS COIN HUNT AND CHRISTMAS CRAFTS at the REME Museum of Technology, Isaac Newton Road, Arborfield, Reading. Hunt for the Christmas coins and tinsel hidden in the museum, to win a prize. Also Christmas themed crafts throughout the museum. 0118 976 3254; rememuseum.org.uk.

Sunday December 1 to Sunday December 22. ON CHRISTMAS DAY, at Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, near Pangbourne, Reading. 10am-4pm. See the mansion beautifully decorated for Christmas. Children’s Christmas trail with craft activities at the weekends. Cost: £2 per trail. 0118 9843040; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Play sessions for under-5s at the Phoenix Gymnastics Club Have fun in this fully equipped gym with your kids.

Susan Handy School of Dance BRANCHES AT: ETON•DATCHET•ICKENHAM•OLD WINDSOR•PYFORD•WINDSOR•WOKING

Sessions Monday: 10.30-11.30 Tuesday to Friday: 9.30 -10.30 & 11.00–12.00 Tuesday & Thursday: 1.00-2.00pm Cost just £3.50 per child (must be accompanied by adult)

Refreshments available Phoenix Gymnastics Club Unit 1, Water Oakley Farm, Maidenhead Road, Windsor Tel:01628 778881 www.phoenixgym.co.uk

18

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

 Ballet  Tap  Modern Jazz  Musical Theatre   Contemporary  Music & Movement (from age 2½ upwards)  Dance Themed Birthday Parties  Enquiries: 01753 542672/07515 270432 Email: office@susanhandydance.co.uk www.susanhandydance.co.uk

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

CALL TO BOOK NOW For advertising in our January/February issue due out early January.

Featuring Health and Children's Parties call:

Call: 01628 627586

Spanish and French for children classes from age 3-5 and 5-11 In Windsor and Maidenhead Call: Marzena on 07718989950 or email marzena@lajolierondeclasses.co.uk

For Little Kickers & Little Rugby classes in Maidenhead, Bourne End, Henley, Marlow & Stokenchurch. Call 01628 526 584 or email bevans@littlekickers.co.uk.

For Little Kickers classes in Ascot, Langley, Windsor & Eton call 07412 166 686 or email sleslie@littlekickers.co.uk.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

19

What’s On

20

Please email listings@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.

The Magic of Christmas Past, Windsor Castle, Windsor, December 7, 14, 21, 22.

Sunninghill Wheelbarrow Race, Sunninghill, January 1.

Oh No You Don't, River and Rowing Museum, Henley, January 2.

Sunday December 8. CHRISTMAS PAST AT CASTLE HILL HOUSE, family drop-in event at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe.

2-4.30pm. Travel back in time to days gone by as Castle Hill house prepares for Christmas. Meet costumed interpreters as they go about their festive tasks and dress up for your own 'Victorian Style' family portrait. 01494 421895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Saturday December 14. FESTIVAL CAKE DECORATING, A Kids Club extra at Hands-On Art Adventures, St Lukes Road, Old Windsor. 10-11.30am & 2-3:30pm. Festival cupcakes - too good to eat! Cost: £15.

01753 206265; hands-onartadventures.co.uk.

Saturday December 14. CHRISTMAS WITH MR TOAD AND FRIENDS at the River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley. 10.30am-4pm. Join Mr Toad and his friends Ratty, Mole and Badger as they celebrate Christmas with crafts, activities, songs, dance…and presents! Find out what happens to wildlife in the winter. Most suitable for under 10s. Normal admission + £3 per child. 01491 415600; rrm.co.uk.

Saturday December 14. THE MAGIC OF HEATHLAND at Wildmoor Heath, off Crowthorne Road, Crowthorne. 10am–1pm. Try your hand at harvesting birch trees to help conserve this precious site. Enjoy a bonfire and possibly take home your very own Christmas tree. Tools & refreshments provided. Suitable for all. Booking required.

01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Saturday December 14 and Sunday December 15.

FESTIVE FUN at the Lightwater Country Park, Heathland Visitor Centre, Lightwater. 11am-3pm. Christmas treasure hunt outdoors, with prizes to win. Make a Christmas card or hat afterwards. Drop-in anytime. Cost: £3 per child. 01276 707338; surreyheath.gov.uk.

Sunday December 15. GO WILD ABOUT NATURE CLUB at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 2-4pm. Regular nature club with different activities each session. Cost: £4 per session. Booking essential. For ages 6+. 01494 421895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Saturdays in December (December 7, 14, 21), plus Sunday December 22. THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS PAST at Windsor Castle. The State Apartments will be decorated for Christmas. Storytelling sessions at 11.15am, 12.15pm and 2.15pm. Join a storyteller by the fireside in St George’s Hall and listen to many glorious tales of Christmas past. Places allocated on a first-come, first-served basis each day. 020 7766 7302; theroyalcollection.co.uk.

December 13 to January 6. WINDSOR ON ICE, Ice Skating Rink in Alexandra Gardens, Windsor. For all the family with a great atmosphere and enthusiastic staff. Santa's Grotto, cafe area, penguin hire. For booking and information, call 01753 743915; Windsor.gov.uk.

Saturday December 14. FESTIVE WILLOW WREATHS WORKSHOP at the Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, off Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead. Workshops at 10am and 11.30am. Decorate a ready-made willow wreath or make your own from scratch.

Suitable for adults and older children. Booking essential.

Cost: £10 donation per wreath. 01628 829574 ext. 21; bbowt.org.uk.

Wednesday December 18. SIMPLY BUGGY WALK in the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common.

11am Start. Baby and buggy walk through Burnham Beeches.

Meet at the café and information point, Lord Mayors Drive.

Please register your attendance on 01753 647358. For more information: 07733 321789.

Saturday December 21. CHRISTMAS MEETING at Ascot Racecourse, with family entertainment, fairground, Christmas storytelling, carol singing, Santa’s reindeer and of course Father Christmas (see page 24 for Where to find Santa listings). Tickets: Grandstand admission from £11; under 18s free. 0870 727 1234; ascot.co.uk.

Saturday December 21. THE SCHOOL OF THE ANCIENTS at the Reading Ure Museum, Department of Classics, Whiteknights, Reading. 2–4pm. Did boys and girls go to school in ancient Greece and Egypt and what did they learn? Craft activity afterwards. Booking essential. For children aged 6+. Cost: £3 per child to cover materials (accompanying adults are free). 0118 378 6990; reading.ac.uk/ure.

Saturday December 21 to Sunday January 5.

CHRISTMAS COLLAGE, family activities during the Christmas Holidays at the Windsor and Royal Borough Museum, Guildhall, High Street, Windsor. 10am-4pm (Tuesday-Saturday), 12-4pm (Sunday); closed Christmas day, Boxing day and New Year’s day. Drop in activities. Create pictures to add to our collage of Christmas past, present and future. For ages 4+. Cost: £1.50 per child (£1 with advantage card), one accompanying adult free. 01628 685686; rbwm.gov.uk/web/museum Monday December 23. FESTIVE CRAFT WORKSHOPS at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 10am-12pm or 1.30-3.30pm. Glass painting, card making and amazing tree decorations. Booking essential. For ages 7+. 01494 421895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Monday December 23. WILD ONES – CHRISTMAS TREASURE HUNT at Lily Hill Park, Bracknell, from 12–2pm and also at South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, from 12-3pm.

Solve a series of festive-themed clues to find Santa and a chocolate prize. Suitable for all. Cost: £2. Booking required. 01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Thursday December 26. ANNUAL BOXING DAY GAMES run by the Kaffirs of Cookham on the Old Cricket Common, Cookham Dean. 10am-noon. Teams of 8 people compete in different games for the prestigious ‘Loo Seat’ trophies. Entry fee of £25 per team (enter on the day).

Spectators welcome and refreshments available. 01628 482201.

Thursday December 26. ANNUAL PRAM RACE in Windlesham town centre. 10.30am start. Fundraising event.

Teams in fancy dress start at The Brickmakers pub and finish at the Windlesham Club and Theatre. Great fun to watch and cheer the teams, but wrap up warm. 01276 472977; pramrace.com.

Sunday December 29 to Tuesday December 31 and Sunday January 5. MINCE PIE SPECIALS at the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Chinnor Station, Chinnor.

Unwind after Christmas by having a ride on a Mince Pie Special.

No need to book. Train times: 10.30am, 12pm, 1.30pm and 3pm.

Chinnorrailway.co.uk.

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

JANUARY 2014 Wednesday January 1. SUNNINGHILL WHEELBARROW RACE. Annual fancy dress wheelbarrow race through the village of Sunninghill, starting at noon in Upper Village Road. Prizes for fastest teams, best fancy-dress, etc. For more details, visit rotaryascot.org.

Thursday January 2. CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY ARTS FACTORY for ages 4-11 at South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. 10am-12pm. Sculpting in clay, designing and making your own puppets or monster pots and using wire and tissue to create models. Cost: £18, members £17. Friday January 3.

NEW YEAR PLAY WITH CLAY for ages 7-12. Fun workshop creating a design on paper and then build it into a 3D-shape. Have a go at throwing a wobbly pot on the wheel.

Cost: £18, members £17. Booking essential for both workshops.

01344 484123; southhillpark.org.uk.

Thursday January 2. OH NO YOU DON’T, drop-in activities at the River and Rowing Museum, Mill Meadows, Henley. 2-4pm. It’s pantomime time! Make your own collage scene on a stage with Wind in the Willows characters and get ready to perform. Friday January 3. THE SOUND OF THE WIND, drop-in activities from 2-4pm. Hear the sound of the wind with your own wind chimes made from recyclable materials. Free with admission. 01491 415600; rrm.co.uk.

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Compiled by Trynke Casale

Christmas What’s On

How to Catch a Star, Norden Farm, Maidenehead, November 26 to December 29

Aladdin,Theatre Royal Windsor, Windsor, December 4 to January 5.

Cinderella, Novello Theatre, Sunninghill, Ascot, January 11 to January 18.

PANTOMIMES & CHRISTMAS SHOWS HOW TO CATCH A STAR by Blunderbus Theatre Company at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, from Tuesday November 26 to Sunday 29 December. Based on the book by Oliver Jeffers. For ages 3+. Morning and afternoon performances. With live music, puppetry, storytelling and star-gazing. Tickets: adults £12.50, children £10.50, family of four £44. Meal deals available (£7 for children, £10 adults, per meal before/after the show). Art Competition for ages 3+.

Download an entry form from the website, and send in your entry before Friday November 29. 01628 788997; www.nordenfarm.org.

ALADDIN at Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames Street, Windsor, from Wednesday December 4 to Sunday January 5. Afternoon and evening performances throughout the week and weekends. Starring TV superstar BASIL BRUSH and panto dream team, Kevin Cruise and Steven Blakeley!

Tickets: £13-£33. 01753 853888; theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk.

(See page 16 for our interview with Basil Brush!)

CINDERELLA at the Novello Theatre, Sunninghill, Ascot.The Pantomime runs from Saturday January 11 until Saturday January 18. Performances Saturdays 3 pm and 7 pm. Monday to Friday at 10.30am. CINDERELLA has been acclaimed as the most popular Panto of all. The cast promise you a Ball as the enchanting story is brought to sparkling life by a fully professional adult cast together with many young stars from Redroofs Theatre School recently seen on Film, TV and in West End Musicals including Nativity, The Sound Of Music, Oliver, Les Miserables, Matilda and many others.

Tickets: adults £ 17.50, children £ 15.50; Students and Senior Citizens tickets £8.50 on day of performance only (subject to availability). Concessions for Schools, Groups and Christmas or Birthday parties. Bookings for School, groups and parties call: 01344 620881 or 01628 822982; Public bookings: Online www.redroofs.co.uk/novello or telephone as above.

THE SNOW QUEEN at the Firestation Arts Centre, St Leonards Road, Windsor, from Monday December 17 to Tuesday December 24. Performances at 11am, 3pm and 7pm, depending on day. The classic Hans Christian Anderson tale about a young boy, Kay, who falls under the spell of the evil Snow Queen, and Gerda who sets out to bring him back.

Tickets: family tickets (2+2) £30. 01753 866 865; firestationartscentre.co.uk.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

CINDERELLA at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe, from Saturday December 7 to Sunday January 5, starring Shane Richie and with lots of special effects and comedy.Various morning, afternoon and evening performances. Tickets: from £19 to £30.50. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK at the Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading, from Saturday December 7 to Sunday January 5. Reading’s biggest ever panto with a star-studded cast including Dani Harmer, Ken Morley, Emma Barton, Debbie McGee, Jon Clegg, Paul Morse, Richard Morse. Tickets: £18.50 each. 0118 9606060; readingarts.com.

DICK WHITTINGTON by the Stoke Poges Players, at the Village Centre, Rogers Lane, Stoke Poges, from Thursday November 28 to Saturday November 30. Performances at 7.30pm, matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets: adults £8, under 15s £6, family £18 (max. 2 adults). 01753 677032; stokepogesplayers.wix.com.

PUSS IN BOOTS by the Riverside Players at the Memorial Hall, Old Windsor from Friday November 29 to Saturday November 30 and from Thursday December 5 to Saturday December 7. Performances at 8pm (except Saturday November 30 at 7pm); matinees on Saturdays at 2.30pm. Tickets: adults £10, Concessions £8, children £6.

07717 671765; riversideplayers.com.

SNOW WHITE at South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, from Saturday November 30 to Saturday January 4. Various afternoon and evening performances. Tickets: adults from £16, concessions from £13, family from £56. 01344 484123; southhillpark.org.

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK by the Colnbrook Amateur Stage Theatre at Colnbrook Village Hall,Vicarage Way, Colnbrook from Tuesday December 3 to Sunday December 8. 07894 579177; cast-online.org.uk.

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET by the Ballet Theatre UK at the Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley, on Sunday December 8 at 2pm and 5.30pm. A perfect treat for the Christmas season. Tchaikovsky's most loved and unforgettable musical score combined with magical choreography, exquisite costumes and breathtaking scenery. Tickets: adults £17, concessions £15, children £12. 01491 575698; kentontheatre.co.uk.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK at the Camberley Theatre, Knoll Road, Camberley, from Tuesday December 10 to Sunday January 5. Starring Daniel Slade as Jack and Mark Slowey as Dame Trott. Tickets: adults £17.95, concessions £15.95, family £94.50 (group of 6). 01276 707600; camberleytheatre.biz.

ALADDIN at the Compass Theatre, Glebe Avenue, Ickenham, Uxbridge, from Thursday December 12 to Sunday December 29 featuring the voice of Tony Blackburn as The Genie. Morning and afternoon performances. Tickets ranging from £8 to £14.50. Online and offline booking fees apply.

01895 673200; compasstheatre.co.uk.

ALADDIN at the Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley, from Friday December 20 to Saturday December 28 (no performances on Christmas Day). Afternoon performances.

Family-friendly, old school approach to the glorious tradition that is pantomime sure to delight young and old alike with songs and sketches, jokes and skits, gorgeous costumes and the feel-good factor. Tickets: adults £18, concessions £15, children £12, family (2+2) £52. 01491 575698; kentontheatre.co.uk.

CINDERELLA at the West Wing, Stoke Road, Slough, from Saturday December 21 to Sunday January 5 by ProDuKtions. Starring the voice of DJ Tony Blackburn as Baron Stoneybroke and animated scenery. All performances in the afternoon, varying from 1 or 2pm to 3.45 or 4.45pm.

Tickets: adults £15; under 16s £12; family of 4 £48. 01628 605981; dk-pro.co.uk.

SLEEPING BEAUTY by the Marlow Entertainers at the Shelley Theatre, Pound Lane, Marlow, on Wednesday December 4 and Friday December 6 to Sunday December 8. Performances at 7.30pm and 2.30pm, Wednesday only at 7pm. Tickets: adults £10 each, children £8 each. 07773343340; marlowentertainersofficial.co.uk ALADDIN by the Maidenhead Drama Guild at the Desborough Suite, Town Hall, St Ives Road, Maidenhead, from Wednesday December 11 to Sunday December 15.

Performances at 7.30pm weekdays, and 12pm and 4pm on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets: adults £9, children £7. 07900 863699 or via maidenhead-drama.co.uk.

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Christmas What’s On

Charity Holiday & Gift Fayre, Ascot Racecourse, November 8.

Christmas Fayre at Moor Hall, Cookham Village, November 23.

Bracknell Town Centre Chrismas switch-on event, November 24.

DICK WHITTINGTON AND HIS CAT ON ICE at the John Nike Leisure Sport Complex, John Nike Way, Bracknell, on Wednesday December 11 (Charity Performance) and from Friday December 13 to Sunday December 15.

Performances at 6.30pm (Wednesday), 7pm (Friday), 2pm and 6pm (Saturday and Sunday). Tickets from £9.95 to £12.95, or family tickets from £31 to £40. 01344 789000; jnlbracknell.co.uk.

JACK IN ATLANTIS, brand new panto by newly formed Mavericks Drama Group from Flackwell Heath, at the Flackwell Community Centre, Straight Bit, Flackwell Heath, on Saturday December 14 and Saturday December 21.

More info on themavericks.org.uk or flackwellheath.net nearer the time.

CINDERELLA at the Beck Theatre, Grange Road, Hayes, from Saturday December 14 to Sunday January 5.

Starring X-Factor winner Joe McElderry making his pantomime debut.Various morning, afternoon and evening performances. Tickets: £16-£22. 020 8561 8371; becktheatre.org.uk.

DICK WHITTINGTON, presented by the Henley Children’s Theatre Group at the Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley from Monday December 30 to Sunday January 5.

Performances at 2.30pm (weekdays), 1pm (weekend) and 6pm (weekend only). Perfect family outing over the Christmas holidays. Suitable for all ages. Preview performance at 2pm on 30th December with all tickets £5. All other performances: adults £11, children and concessions £8. 01491 575698; kentontheatre.co.uk.

SNOW WHITE AND THE FAIRY TALE CREATURES at the Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley from Thursday January 16 to Saturday January 18. Performances at 7.15pm, also at 2pm on Saturday. Family pantomime by Behind You Productions. Tickets: adults £13, children £10, concessions £11, family £42. 01491 575698; kentontheatre.co.uk.

Sunday December 15. ORCHESTRAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT by Cantorum Choir in Holy Trinity Church, Cookham. 01628 525371; cantorumchoir.org.uk.

Sunday December 15. CAROLS AT THE CAFÉ on the Common, Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. Annual celebration at the Café. Details will be posted online and onsite in early December. No booking required. cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnhambeeches.

Monday December 16. CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT at the Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor. 8pm.

With the Locrian Ensemble in lavish period costume and in front of a festive candlelit setting. An evening of carols, string medleys of familiar Xmas tunes, and seasonal surprises. 01753 853 888; theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk.

Tuesday December 18. FESTIVO, an evening of carols at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. 7.30pm. Popular programme featuring all the nation's favourite carols, interspersed with devotional readings and lighter seasonal items. 01753 743915; stgeorges-windsor.org.

Thursday December 19. CAROLS ON THE CAUSEWAY in Marlow. Communal carol singing in the evening round the town Christmas tree, with choire, Father Christmas, warm drinks and food

independent market is run on behalf of Windsor & Eton Town Partnership on the third Saturday of each month. 01753 864300. Next market: Saturday December 21.

Saturday November 16 and Sunday November 17.

HOLYPORT ART AND CRAFT EXHIBITION in the Holyport War Memorial Hall on Moneyrow Green, Holyport.

Doors open to the public from 2pm. Displays of paintings and craft work by local artists.

Saturday November 16 and Sunday November 17.

CRAFT AND DESIGN FAIR at South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. 11am-6pm on Saturday, 10am-5pm on Sunday. Enjoy and explore some of the UKs best handmade crafts and buy directly from the artists and makers that will be exhibiting with us all weekend. Specialist workshops and demonstrations. Drop and Shop crèche or Ceramics Workshop for children. 01344 484123; southhillpark.org.uk.

Sunday November 17. SUNNINGHILL VICTORIAN STREET FAYRE, in Sunninghill High Street. 12-4pm. A fun filled family day with Musical Entertainment, Father Christmas, a visit from Mr Toad from Wind in the Willows, lots of fabulous Christmas stalls, food and refreshments to suit everyone and Sunninghill’s very own 'Town Crier'. 01344 630141; sunninghillandascotparishcouncil.org.

Sunday November 17. ASCOT FARMERS’ MARKET, in Car Park 3, Ascot High Street. 9.30am-1pm. Running since 2002; 20 or so stalls offering a great choice of fresh produce, pies and pastries, dairy products and plants with on-site parking.

01235 227266; tvfm.org.uk. Next market: Sunday December 15.

Wednesday November 20. ST CRISPIN’S ANNUAL CHRISTMAS MARKET at St Crispin’s, London Road, Wokingham. 5.30-8.30pm. International food, Christmas market, games for children, and hands-on activities. crispins.co.uk/website/index.php/pta.

Thursday November 21. GIRLS NIGHT IN at the Windsor Library, Bachelor’s Acre, Windsor. 8pm. Free glass of Buck Fizz on arrival.Visit the stalls for some early Christmas shopping. Pamper yourself with a mini-treatment. Get up to date with the e-book surgery. Discover a world of new authors. Tickets £5. 01753 743940.

Thursday November 21. SWITCH ON AND SHOP event in Marlow Town Centre. Celebrity ‘Switch-on’ at 6.30pm on the Causeway, then shops will remain open till 9pm. Free parking in Marlow car parks.

Marlowtowncouncil.org.uk.

CAROL CONCERTS Saturday December 7. GRAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT by Egham Choral and sister choir New Egham Singers at St John’s Church, Egham. 7.30pm. An evening of (mostly) carols. 07508 320348; eghamchoral.org.

Tuesday December 10 and Wednesday December 18.

CHRISTMAS CONCERTS with the Maidenhead Concert Band at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 7pm (Tuesday) and 7.45pm (Wednesday). A firm favourite during the Christmas season, with proceeds going to local charities.

Tickets: £8 each. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Friday December 13 (Date TBC). CAROLS ON THE HILL, in front of King Henry VIII Gate, Castle Hill, Windsor.

An evening of carols in front of Windsor Castle beginning at 6pm. Featuring the Band of the Blues and Royals. Please check windsor.gov.uk nearer the time for confirmation of date.

Saturday December 14. CERYS MATTHEWS HOOK, LINE AND CAROL SINGING at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 8pm. A festive feast of carols, stories and sing-along classics from the 14th century to today with the BBC broadcaster, bestselling author and songwriter. Her sing-a-long book Hook, Line and Singer became a Sunday Times bestseller. Tickets: £21.50 all seats. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Saturday December 14. CAROL EVENING TRAIN on the Chinnor and Princes Risborough Railway, Chinnor Station, Chinnor. Train departs Chinnor Station at 7pm. Seasonal refreshments will be available. Tickets: adults £10, seniors £9, children (3-15 inc.)£5. 01844 353535 (talking timetable); chinnorrailway.co.uk.

Sunday December 15. FAMILY CAROLS at Eton College School Hall by the Windsor and Eton Choral Society.

2.45pm. Tickets: adults £5, under 12s free. 01753 833372; or via the form found on w-ecs.org.uk.

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CHRISTMAS FAIRS AND MARKETS TOWN CENTRE EVENTS Throughout November and till December 31. THE CRAFT COOP SHOP in the former Waterstones shop, Nicholson’s Centre, Maidenhead. Open from Wednesday to Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday from 11am-5pm. Wonderful locally crafted products, craft sessions, meeting areas, and tables for the kids to do some drawing while the adults shop.

Craftcoop.co.uk.

Saturday November 9 and Sunday November 10.

WINDSOR CONTEMPORARY ART FAIR at the Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, Windsor. 10am-6pm (5pm on Sunday). Free workshops and other arts activities for children and adults throughout the weekend run by the acclaimed artists of Jelly. See the website for more information and updates. Tickets on the door: adults £9, children 5-16 £1, under 5s free. 01753 591892; contemporaryartfair.co.uk.

Thursday November 7 to Sunday November 10.

CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR at the Waddesdon Plant Centre, Waddesdon Manor, near Aylesbury. 10.30am-4.30pm. Over 50 stalss offering inspirational present ideas. 01296 653226; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Friday November 8. CHARITY HOLIDAY AND GIFT FAYRE by the American Women of Berkshire and Surrey at Ascot Racecourse. 10am-3pm. 100% of net proceeds will be donated to local charities with over 90 handpicked exclusive artisian vendors of handmade and high quality art, textiles, gifts, food and more. Tickets: £5 for over 17. Awbs.org.uk.

Sunday November 10. THE MUMMY AND BABY MARKET, special Christmas shopping market at Court Garden House, Pound Lane, Marlow. 10am-1pm. With many great brands, gifts, gift cards, jewellery, cupcakes, etc. Entry £1, children free. 7919 576 527; mummyandbabymarket.co.uk.

Saturday November 16. WINDSOR CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON and Children’s Lantern Procession.

Starting from 3.30pm. Children’s Lantern Procession through the streets of Windsor followed by programme of live entertainment in front of the majestic Windsor Castle. In association with Windsor District Chamber of Commerce.

Saturday November 16. WINDSOR FARMERS’ MARKET, in Peascod Street. 10am-5pm. New in 2013, this

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Christmas What’s On

Cerys Matthews - Hook, Line and Carol Singing, Norden Farm, Maidenhead, December 14.

Shakespeare Lantern Parade, Maidenhead Town Centre, December 14.

Festivo, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, December 18.

Thursday November 21. ETON CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON. Jubilee Square, Eton. From 6.30pm.

Community carol service at Eton College Chapel followed by a parade to the Jubilee square where the Eton Lights will be switched on.

In partnership with Eton Traders and Community Association.

Thursday November 21. SLOUGH CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON, in the Town Square, High Street, Slough. Acts and performances from 3.30pm, lights switched on around 6pm. For more info nearer the time, call 01753 875194 or visit slough.gov.uk.

Friday November 22 and Saturday November 23.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING VILLAGE along the Concourse level of the Grandstand at Ascot Racecourse.

Gates open at 10.45am, last race at 3.35pm. In association with Country Living. In between the racing, peruse over 40 stalls selling perfect gifts for the Christmas season. Tickets: from £18. Under 18s free. 0844 346 3000; ascot.co.uk.

Saturday November 23. CHRISTMAS FAYRE at Moor Hall (Chartered Institute of Marketing), Cookham Village.

11am-4pm. With over 40 stallholders. Good mixture between retailers and charities and a huge selection of merchandise.

Free entry and free parking. cookhamfayre.co.uk.

Saturday November 23. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON at the Town Hall, St Ives Road, and the Nicholson Centre, Maidenhead. From 6pm at the Town Hall.

For more details, visit enjoymaidenhead.com.

Sunday November 24. MARLOW CHRISTMAS MARKET at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow. 10am-4pm. Festive stalls, carol singers, mulled wine and mince pies. www.crowneplaza.com/marlow Sunday November 24. BRACKNELL TOWN CENTRE SWITCH ON EVENT in Charles’ Square, Bracknell. Last year before Charles Square is regenerated, so it’s promising to be “special”. Annual festive event which attracted thousands of visitors last year to see X Factor singer Amelia Lily, performing the switch-on; a celebrity guest will be announced nearer the time. Getreading.co.uk.

Sunday November 24. WOKINGHAM WINTER CARNIVAL, throughout Wokingham town centre.

11am-5.30pm. Free community event with entertainment for all the family. Fun fair rides, over 100 food, craft and charity stalls, entertainment including a magic show, Punch & Judy, comedy jugglers, clowns. Santa's Grotto in the Library from 11am - 3pm. Music from Berkshire Maestros and The Rock Choir. Carnival Procession starts at. More information at wintercarnival.org.uk.

Thursday November 28 to Sunday December 1.

CHRISTMAS FAIR at Ascot Racecourse, High Street,

Ascot. 9.30am-5.30pm. With top quality gift companies, by the organisers of the Really Good Deal Fashion Sale, UK Grand Sales. Festive food, gifts, homewares, art, toys, children’s collections, fashion and stocking fillers. Admission: £5 online, £7 by phone, £9 on door. 01367 860017; ukgrandsales.co.uk.

Saturday November 30. CHRISTMAS ARTISAN FAIR at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 11am–4pm. The 18th century Long Barn provides the perfect backdrop to pick up a unique Christmas gift. Stalls include natural body lotions, handmade jewellery and wooden crafts. Free entry.

01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Saturday November 30. IVER CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CEREMONY in Iver High Street.

Saturday November 30. FRIETH CHRISTMAS FAYRE, at Frieth School, Frieth, near Henley on Thames.

1.30pm. Craft stalls from local sellers, tombolas and raffles, art & crafts room and Santa’s grotto. Hot drinks, mulled wine and homemade cakes also available.

Saturday November 30. FISA CHRISTMAS FAYRE at Iver Village Junior School, Iver. 12-3pm. Contact: Pippa Vinall on 07771932108 or pippavinall@aol.com.

Saturday November 30. CHRISTMAS FAIR at St Peter’s School, Minniecroft Road, Burnham. 10.30am-1.30pm.

Spin the Wheel, Bottle Tombola, food and drink, Hoopla Game, raffle and Santa. Entry: 50p for adults, free for children.

07730558576; stpeterscofe.co.uk.

Sunday December 1. WINDSOR EMPORIUM in the Guildhall (first floor), High Street, Windsor. 10am-4pm. Perfect opportunity to browse for Christmas presents among the fine selection of arts, crafts and antique stalls.Vintage Tea Room. Entry: £1, children free. 07900 285919; windsoremporium.co.uk.

Thursday December 5. BURNHAM VILLAGE CHRISTMAS FAYRE in the High Street, Burnham. 5-9pm, parade starting at 7pm from St Peter’s Church. Themed parade, bands, rides, entertainers, stalls and lots more.

Thursday December 5. MARLOW CHRISTMAS LATE NIGH SHOPPING EVENING in Marlow High Street. The High Street will be closed for traffic from 6-9pm.

Stalls, music, entertainment for all.

Friday December 6. BOURNE END FUN NIGHT with lights switched on at 5pm, kicking off an evening with stalls, bouncy castle, children’s rides, music and entertainment for all. Father Christmas will arrive at his grotto, carols will be sung, shops are open and much more.

Saturday December 7. CHRISTMAS FAIR at Dropmore Infant School, Littleworth Road, Littleworth Common. 12-3pm. Food stalls, Christmas presents, mulled wine, Christmas wreath and decoration making, Santa’s

grotto, face painting, games and much more. Dropmore is a small rural Infant school on the edge of Burnham Beeches with an outstanding achievement award. Entry: £1 on the gate.

07976 612623.

Saturday December 7. CHRISTMAS BAZAAR at White Waltham School, Waltham Road, White Waltham.

12-3pm. Tombolas, raffle, games room, refreshments, Father Christmas and also external stalls (offering the opportunity to get Christmas shopping done!).

Saturday December 7. CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS FAIR at the Macdonald Hotel, 23 High Street, Windsor.

10am-4pm. A selling exhibition of handmade Christmas tree decorations. This year's most unique and affordable Christmas gift can be picked straight from trees branches. Free entry.

Suitable for all ages. Website: christmasornamentsfair.co.uk.

Saturday, December 7. ART ON THE STREET in Maidenhead High Street and the Nicholson Centre.

10am-4pm. Browse the stalls with wonderful artworks and talk to the artists. Music and entertainment throughout the day. Maidenheadartmarket.org.

Saturday December 7. CHRISTMAS FARMERS’ MARKET, St Leonard’s Road, Windsor. (between the Firestation Arts Centre and East Berks College). Enjoy the food stalls and local shops. 01235 227266.

Saturday December 7. CHRISTMAS ARTS MARKET at the Artsbar, Cantley Lodge Hotel, Wellington Road, Wokingham. 10am-4pm. Shop for unique gifts handmade in Berkshire. Free parking, 5 minutes from station.

Morearts.org.uk.

Sunday December 8. CHRISTMAS STREET FAYRE in Cookham High Street. 12-4pm. Afternoon of festive fun with seasonal treats, Santa, Christmas stalls, food market. Free parking.

Sunday December 12. CHRISTMAS FARMERS’ MARKET in Grove Road car park, Maidenhead. 10am-1pm.

More than 25 stalls each month selling a wide range of locally produced meat, freshly caught fish, vegetables and fruit, baked goods, cheeses and dairy products, juice and much more.

01628 670272; maidenheadfarmersmarket.org.uk.

Saturday December 14. SHAKESPEARE LANTERN PARADE through Maidenhead Town Centre, presented by Norden Farm. The parade assembles at 4.30pm outside Maidenhead Town Hall and leaves at 5pm. A celebratory concert featuring the Maidenhead Community Choir will follow the parade. This year's theme is based on Shakespeare and this plays. Family lantern parade workshops throughout November and December at locations around Maidenhead.

To find out about dates and locations of the workshops, follow Twitter: @farm_out; Facebook: www.facebook.com/farmout.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

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Christmas What’s On

Where to find Santa As the excitement mounts in households in across the country, some little green elves have scoured Berkshire and Buckinghamshire for the best places to meet Father Christmas!

You can meet him... …at CLIVEDEN, Taplow, on all Wednesdays (10am-1pm) plus weekends (10am – 3pm) in December, starting on Wednesday December 4 and till Sunday December 22. Follow the FATHER CHRISTMAS TRAIL in the grounds of Cliveden to find Father Christmas’s grotto. Cost: £5 per child, plus usual admission. 01628 605069; nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden.

…at ODDS FARM PARK, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, during weekends from Saturday November 30 to Sunday December 22, plus Monday and Tuesday December 23/24.Visit Santa in his special grotto and receive a top toy for Christmas (£4 per child), 10am-5.30pm. Enjoy the madness and mayhem with the Festive Entertainers! 01628 520 188; oddsfarm.co.uk.

… at THE SAVILL GARDEN, Wick Lane, Englefield Green, where he will be during weekends in December from Saturday December 7, till Sunday December 22 from 11am to 4pm. Booking is required and tickets cost £6.50 per child, on sale from The Savill Building from 1 November, 10am-4.30pm. 01784 435544; or visit theroyallandscape.co.uk

...at the OAKTREE GARDEN CENTRE AND NURSERY near Bracknell, every Wednesday and weekend from November 30, plus the 23 and 24 December. Christmas is a very special time at the Garden Centre, see the amazing festive wonderland display, a lit avenue of trees with real snow machines and much more.

Visits start from £6.50 per child with two accompanying adults. Santa will also sometimes be joined by his special reindeer friends. Please check the website for exact times and to book. oaktreegardencentre.co.uk.

…at THE LOOK OUT DISCOVERY CENTRE, Bracknell. Enjoy Christmas Weekend on 7-8 December.

There will be lots of fun with a free children’s entertainer, festive art and craft activities and face painting. Christmas trees, holly and mistletoe from the Windsor Estate will be on sale and Santa will be in The Look Out grotto from 10am-4pm. He will also be paying a visit on 5 & 6 December for the Toddler Days from 10.30am-12.30pm.

01344 354 400, bracknell-forest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre …on the weekends at HUGHENDEN MANOR, High Wycombe, for a Victorian Christmas, from Sunday December 1 to Tuesday December 31. 11am-3pm. See the Manor Christmas decorations, enjoy carols, music and readings plus fun family activities. Normal admission applies.

01494 755579; nationaltrust.org.uk.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

…on Saturday 14 with his reindeer from 1pm in MAIDENHEAD TOWN CENTRE and the Maidenhead Bridge Rotary will be running toy reindeer racing in Nicholsons Shopping Centre to raise money for charity.

There will also be a Shakespeare lantern parade organised by Norden Farm at 5pm followed by a celebratory concert. enjoymaidenhead.com …on December 7 in Windsor town centre during the REINDEER PARADE from 2-4pm. Come and see the LIVE Reindeer and Father Christmas on a sleigh parading through the town centre with a marching band and other Christmas characters, leaving from Advance Gate (Windsor Castle) at 2pm, and finishing behind the rear entrance of Daniels by the Jubilee Monument. 01753 743900; windsor.gov.uk. ...during breakfast at Cafe Rouge in WINDSOR ROYAL SHOPPING CENTRE, every weekend in December from December 7 to December 24. Two sittings at 8:30am and 10am. Booking essentions via windsorroyalshopping.co.uk …at the LEGOLAND WINDSOR RESORT, Winkfield Road, Windsor. Enjoy a Santa Sleepover too! Santa will be there during the weekend of December 7/8, and every day from Saturday December 14 to Christmas Eve, Tuesday December 24. Park ticket prices: online pre-book only - £20 per person including Santa visit, all themed activities and 8 attractions. Santa Sleepover packages from £250. Book online via legoland.co.uk. …in his Winter Wonderland at ASCOT RACECOURSE on Saturday December 21. With a gift for every child subject to availability and good behaviour throughout the year! Lots of family entertainment, fairground, Christmas storytelling, carol singing and Santa’s reindeer. Tickets: Grandstand admission from £11; under 18s free. 0870 727 1234; ascot.co.uk. …. in a pinewood forest on the Windsor Estate near Ascot at LAPLANDUK from 30 Nov-24 Dec. Have a personalised visit to Father Christmas in his woodland home, plus lots of fun extras. Book in advance for visits, but be warned it isn’t cheap - tickets cost from £45-£75 per person. laplanduk.co.uk ....with his reindeer in his Winter Wonderland at BIRDWORLD, Holt Pound, Farnham, Surrey, every weekend till 19th December then every day until December 24. 10am-4.30pm (times vary).

Meet the farm animals and Santa’s elves. Booking essential.

Tickets: adults £4.95/£10.95, children £6.95/£11.95, under 3s £4.95. Can book online at birdworld.co.uk; 01420 22992. …at his Crystal Grotto in PAINSHILL PARK, Portsmouth Road, Cobham. Join Father Christmas and his Elves in the park’s unique Crystal Grotto from Saturday December 7 to Monday December 24.

Booking required. Tickets: adults £7.00/Child £8.50 01932 584284; painshill.co.uk. … at the little Welly Christmas Festival at WELLINGTON COUNTRY PARK, Odiham Road, Riseley, Reading, from Saturday December 21 to Monday December 23. Ideal for 3-12 year olds. Entertainment, stalls and activities for the whole family, plus of course, Santa’s Grotto. Cost: £25 for a standard all inclusive ticket to the whole festival, which includes an ice rink, five ‘big top’ tents and an ‘Enchanted Forest’ with treasure trail and re-creation of The North Pole.

More info on thelittlewelly.co.uk or email hello@thelittlewelly.co.uk Santa will also be appearing at many of the events featured in our what’s on pages. To find more Santas go to: www.familiestveast.co.uk/Santa2013

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Great Competitions with WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO NORDEN FARM’S CHRISTMAS SHOW Norden Farm is excited to announce that this year’s Christmas show is How to Catch a Star, based on the book by Oliver Jeffers.

The family show runs from 26 November – 29 December and is suitable for 3+ years.

Tickets are £12.50, £10.50 under 16s, £11 Groups and £44 Family (4 people).

Once there was a boy and he loved stars very much.

He wished he had one of his own.

One day, he decided to catch a star…

Join the little boy on his moonlit adventure in search of a starry friend.

With live music, puppetry, storytelling and star-gazing.

From the company who brought The Owl who was Afraid of the Dark to Norden Farm.

To book tickets go to www.nordenfarm.org or call 01628 788997.

We have one family ticket to give away to enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

Terms and Conditions apply, closing date December 2.

Don’t forget to go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/ competitions for our exclusive online competition to win £100 of Lands End clothes and a family ticket to Snow Play at the Bloomsbury theatre in London.

WIN AN AWARD WINNING BOARD GAME THAT HELPS YOU LEARN FRENCH

WIN A FAMILY TICKET TO SEE PETER PAN GOES WRONG IN LONDON

The multi-award winning KLOO has turned learning a language into a game.

Within a few seconds players can create grammatically correct sentences and learn new French words to win points and power racing cars in a Race to Paris. Special colour coded cards mean even absolute beginners quickly learn to speak the language making

The award-winning comedy company Mischief Theatre’s brand new show Peter Pan Goes Wrong comes to Pleasance Islington this Christmas. It runs from December 10 to January 5.

learning French fast, effortless and a lot of fun! Race to Paris comes complete with four decks which cover different topics such as “People”, “Places” and “Eating & Drinking”. For those looking to learn French and enjoy a Joyeux Noël, Race to Paris will have them talking French tout de suite!

Kloo retails at £29.99 and is available at Foyles, www.amazon.co.uk and www.kloogame.com We have 5 games to give away to enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

Terms and Conditions apply, closing date December 2.

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SUPER MAXI 850 PIECE BOX OF BIZZY BITZ! Cool, addictive, educational and fun, Bizzy Bitz is a must for every family!

With a simple ball and socket system, Bizzy Bitz is set to capture the world with its infinite possibilities.

With brightly coloured pieces and a wide variety of shapes, children of all ages and stages can create absolutely anything with Bizzy Bitz. www.bizzy-bitz.com We have one box to give away to enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

Terms and Conditions apply. Closing date for the competition is 2nd December 2013.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

The inept and accident prone Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society set out to present J.M. Barrie’s classic tale of Peter Pan. Two acts of hysterical disaster ensue.

Don’t miss this hilarious new comedy from the creators of West End smash hit comedy The Play that Goes Wrong. To die will be an awfully big adventure.

For children 7+. A family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) costs £40. Adult tickets are £16-12, concessions are 10.

To book tickets call 0207 609 1800 or go to: www.pleasance.co.uk We have three family tickets to give away to enter just visit: www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

Terms and Conditions apply, closing date December 2.

FAMILIES MATTER! Become a Home-Start volunteer and help local parents build better lives for their children

Home-Start Slough

If you are a parent or grandparent, and have a couple of hours to spare each week, then why not volunteer your experience to help someone else?

We will train and support you throughout.

Our next volunteer course starts on Wednesday 26th February 2014 so please contact us on 01628 661029 or email office@hsslough.co.uk Local Patron: Fiona Mactaggart MP

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

Charity Number: 1054713

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Christmas Crafts Get creative with the kids Handmade decorations have never been more popular. So why not keep the children busy in the run up to Christmas by making some of your own? These gorgeous personalised decorations can be used to decorate the house or can be given as gifts. Melissa Johnson from Messy Monets shows Families how it’s done.

Festive Lanterns

Snow Bauble You can make lots of these to fill up a bowl or hang them from the tree. It’s quite a messy activity but the kids will love it.

1. Blow a balloon up to about the size of a tennis ball.

2. Cut some wool into 15 strands, each about 15cm long.

3. Dip the wool in a bowl of PVA glue and squeeze off the excess glue.

4. Wrap the glue covered wool around the balloon, repeat with all the wool and leave to dry overnight.

5. Pop the balloon once dry and remove carefully from your wool ball.

6. To hang your snow bauble up, loop through a colourful piece of ribbon and tie in a knot.

7.You can use any colour wool and even add glitter to the glue for extra sparkle!

Use an old jam jar to create a stunning Christmas lantern.These lovely lanterns will look lovely on the fireplace or make a great teacher’s gift.

1. Simply cover a clean glass jar with PVA glue.

2. Cover the jar with squares of tissue paper, 3. Include a pretty snowflake design for decoration, which you can draw and cut out from any coloured tissue paper you like.

4. To complete the jar you need to paint it with a final coat of half PVA and half water solution.

5. Allow the lantern to dry out, tie a ribbon round the top and then pop a tealight inside for a beautiful light.

Other ideas OPEN DAY Fri 22nd Nov 9am - 11am and

2pm - 4pm

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Go on a festive treasure hunt in the woods – collect pine cones to decorate either by gluing on glitter or colourful mini pom-poms. Hang on the tree, group in a bowl or hang in clusters on the fireplace.

Make your own wrapping paper – the smallest of children will enjoy decorating plain sheets of paper with footprints or handprints.You could even make Santa faces out of the handprints.

If your little ones don’t like the feel of paint on their hands, get them to decorate with potato print penquins!

Messy Monets hold regular craft classes for pre-schoolers in Maidenhead and Windsor.They also do children’s birthday parties, to find out more go to www.messymonets.co.uk or call 07974 113434

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

Button Decorations Make funky decorations for the tree.

You can use up your button collection or go to a good sewing shop to stock up on supplies.

1. Choose a selection of buttons. Let the children choose the colours they want.

Perhaps they might want to be traditional with festive reds or go for a more contemporary look with beautiful, bright colours.

2. Use jewellery wire to thread them together (which can be bought at any good craft stores). Thread the buttons on to the wire and join together in a circle.

3. To complete the task, loop a colourful festive ribbon through your circle of buttons and hang on the tree!

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

How to keep the kids amused during the winter months

Parenting

The Christmas holidays can feel long and tedious if the weather isn’t great, and with the man in red’s visit just around the corner the children can’t help but get a little over excited. Here are Hands on Parenting’s top 10 activities to keep them amused.

1.Christmas Cooking There are many easy festive bakes that children can help with, to enjoy yourselves or to wrap and deliver as gifts to your loved ones! Our favourites are stained glass window cookies, shortbread stars, mince pies, gingerbread houses and coconut ice. Below is the recipe for some yummy stars.

Shortbread Stars Ingredients: • 55g icing sugar • 85g butter • 1 egg yolk • 140g plain flour

1. Preheat the oven to 180˚c (gas mark 4). Put all the ingredients into a large bowl and mix until a smooth dough is formed. This may take a few minutes - resist the temptation to add water.

2. Roll out on a floured surface and cut out small star shapes using a cutter.

3. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes until golden brown.

2. Give to charity or help a neighbour Take some of your freshly baked Christmas goodies to an elderly neighbor and ask if they need any jobs done. The children could write a Christmas card or put together a parcel for soldier, away from home at Christmas (www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk). Some great gifts, such as a goat for a family in Malawi, can be bought from Oxfam and other charities.

3. Winter walk Wrap up and take a walk in the garden or at the park - leaving a trail of clues or a list of things to find make it more of an adventure. Kids go free at Savill Garden in Windsor Great Park during December and local National Trust properties are holding lots of great events too. Once you’re back inside turn your findings into a beautiful collage or add some glitter and turn them into Christmas decorations (see opposite for inspiration).

4.Thank you cards Almost every child hates doing thank you cards!

Get them to make some cards by painting or sticking on Christmassy shapes, then after

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Christmas write a simple message. Do a few per day, and you'll have them completed by the New Year! Children who prefer to be on the ipad or computer can design a card or photo collage to email or print off.

5. Hold a kitchen disco This is a great way to burn off steam after a day stuck indoors. Turn down the lights, and give each child a torch and a scarf/feather boa they can twirl around with. Lineup some 70’s classics or cheesy Christmas songs, and watch the disco magic unfold.

6.Track down the illusive man in red You can now receive personal communication from the man himself, see photographic evidence that “he’s been’’ and even keep an eye on old St Nick as he circumnavigates the globe. To “arrange” a personal message from Father Christmas, go to www.portablenorthpole.com.

To track Santa from 1st December go to www.noradsanta.org and see a picture of him in your home at www.icaughtsanta.com. Or why not go the old fashioned route and send him a real letter. Here is his address, but remember to post by December 6th to get a reply!

Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. You can also get a letter via the NSPCC, www.christmas.nspcc.org.uk/santa 7. Christmas movie afternoon Snuggle up on the sofa and watch a Christmassy DVD. It is so nice to sit with your family around you eating popcorn and relaxing. Some favourite films are: The Polar Express, The Muppet Christmas Carol, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street and White Christmas.

8. Go Shopping Go to a garden centre to buy a special Christmas tree decoration to symbolise the year - it can become a festive tradition and it’s nice to remember why you got it every time you decorate the tree.

9. Hold your own nativity play or carol concert Help your children to put on a play of the Christmas story, starring various family members, puppets or teddy bears. This will help them learn about the nativity and they will love putting on a show. They could also get together with friends and put on a carol performance for family and neighbours.

10. Go to a Christmas event.

Attend a local Christmas parade, book a Panto, go to a Christmas light switch-on, Carol Concert or make a special trip to see Father Christmas, they are all listed in Families comprehensive What’s On guide. Some are free but lots need to be booked - to find out about all these local events go to pp17 to 25.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

Hands on Parenting are a dedicated team of qualified and experienced parenting consultants who will visit you at your home. A “supernanny” parenting consultant will diagnose and advise on any childcare topic. They offer a pre-school parenting service in London, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. To find out more go www.handsonparenting.co.uk. Or you can email admin@handsonparenting.co.uk or call 07716020865.

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Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere!

I’m Ed and here is my Winter book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online and from good bookstores.

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

For Ages 5 to 7 years Barmy Barney Barn Owl by Ann Jungman (Troika Books £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Barn owls have lived at Hoden Farm for years so Mr and Mrs Barn Owl are horrified to hear that their home could be sold to developers, leaving them homeless. Time for the owlet Barney to put on his thinking cap and come up with a solution!

With the help of the farmer’s daughter and the television in the farmhouse he is soon able to come up with some ideas. But will it be all plain sailing – or flying?

‘This is a lovely story for young readers reading together or on their own. And of course I am delighted to hear about the Owl Study Centre at the farm!’

For Ages 7 years plus The Reindeer Girl by Holly Webb (Stripes £7.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Lotta is thrilled to be going to Norway to meet her great-grandmother for the first time. As well as the snow, Christmas and a special birthday celebration to look forward to, one of the most exciting things for Lotta is seeing the reindeer. Her favourite bedtime stories have always been those about her great-grandmother and the reindeer. Lotta can only dream of such adventures. Can her dreams come true?

‘Here is the latest wonderful book by this super author in a beautifully presented edition. It is a heartwarming story for many a cold winter’s night!’

Genie in a Trap

by Ciaran Murtagh (Piccadilly £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Jamie is very excited when his genie friend Balthazar invites him back to Lampville to be the guest of honour at the Genie Academy party – but things are not always what they seem! Will Jamie be able to extricate himself from this dangerous trap? And can he and his friends survive lightning bolts, a landslide and a fire-breathing dragon among other things?

‘This is the latest hilarious adventure in this magical series. Boys and girls will be rolling with laughter as they devour this fantastic pageturner of a book.’

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Over the Moon

by Frank Cottrell Boyce (Macmillan £10.99) ED SAYS: ‘There are amazing goings-on in London with Big Ben hurtling across the city like a rocket, Little Harry going missing and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang being stolen. At times of national emergencies such as these, even the Queen has to get involved. With a trip to the moon and a fiendish criminal around, there’s plenty of action in this story about the world’s most famous car.

‘This incredible story with fantastic illustrations will entertain readers young and old. Fasten your seat-belts and prepare for the fun in this magical time-travelling adventure!’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

At Herries, ...... every child is an individual and every child is known and loved.

Come and visit us at our Open Mornings on 27th November and 29th January from 9.30 – 11.00am See our website for full details:

www.herries.org.uk Herries Preparatory School, Dean Lane, Cookham Dean, Berkshire SL6 9BD Tel: 01628 483350 Email: office@herries.org.uk

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

“A Small, Friendly & Caring School” · High quality Montessori education for children aged 2 to 5 years · Free Montessori sessions for 3 to 5 year olds · Staff qualified to the highest Montessori & National Standards · A complete learning environment and a sound foundation for life

Contact: Georgina Pitchford 01628 676717

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Photio: Sarah Pearman

Bumps ‘n’ Babes

Do you need a Doula? doula is a trained and experienced woman offering emotional and practical support to parents, before, during and after childbirth. Doula (pronounced "doola") is an Ancient Greek word meaning "woman servant or caregiver", and hiring a doula can enable a woman to have the most satisfying and empowering time possible pre and post partum.

Continuity of care throughout pregnancy and birth is important, but with the NHS maternity services under strain, women usually see many different midwives throughout the pregnancy and birth. Hiring a doula means that there is always someone present who both knows the individual woman’s wishes and what her labour journey is all about, who can give confidence to the mum and dad-to-be.

We caught up with Kayla and Sarah (Birth Bright) both experienced Birth Doulas based in Earlsfield in London.

What does a Doula do?

Sarah says: ‘We tend to get booked in early pregnancy and usually meet the couple three times before the birth so that we can take time to understand what particular hopes and fears they face.’

Kayla adds: 'Once a woman reaches 38 weeks we are ‘on call’ until their baby is born. One of us will take over as the sole Birth Doula and will arrive during early labour at the client’s house, with a few tricks up our sleeve to encourage them to relax. Then, unless it’s a home birth, we travel with the couple to the hospital or birth unit. Sometimes the partner can feel a bit ignored, so we make sure they understand what’s going on, show them how best to support the woman and generally reassure them. We stay with the couple no matter how long it takes and

A

Telephone: 01628 627 586

regardless of the type of birth. We wait until their baby is born, is happily feeding and mum has showered and is tucked up in bed. A follow up visit or two ensures that everyone is relaxed and happy in the first week or so.'

Why did you become a Doula?

Sarah says: 'I became a Doula after I gave birth to my son. I laboured at home and was, for the most part, calm and in control - my birth had no intervention with a healthy happy baby at the end of it. Perfect?

And yet afterwards I felt a shockwave that the experience of giving birth had been overwhelming and intense. Birth is not just a clinical event, it is a hugely emotional one and it is this nurturing support that I provide as a Doula.

I began by advising and helping friends with everything from how to aid morning sickness through to soothing a windy baby!

But it was in the first privileged moments I shared with my sister after her son was born that I truly made my mind up and took my first steps towards becoming a Doula.

I’m interested in empowering women and their partners to make informed choices about their births and know there will be someone they trust with them throughout as their advocate, cheering them on!'

Kayla says: ‘After years spent as a Norland maternity nurse and listening to new mums describing their birth experiences, I realised that that many women in labour lacked the confidence in their own abilities and received a lack of emotional support.

One day I happened to hear from a friend that her doula had let her down! I asked what she meant and the rest is history. My aim as a doula is to encourage and empower the woman to have some control of her birthing choices and then facilitate her to be as calm and caringly supported as possible, regardless of whether it is a home or hospital birth. ‘ Research has shown that having the constant presence of a doula at a birth: • Shortens first-time labour by an average of 2 hours • Decreases the chance of caesarean section by 50% • Decreases the need for pain medication • Helps fathers participate with confidence • Increases success in breastfeeding (findings from "Mothering the Mother" by Klaus, Kennell & Klaus, 1993) For more information on our doulas above visit Sarah Pearman at www.birthbright.com or Kayla Mead at www.kayladoula.net. For more information on the benefits of Doulas, and to find a local Doula in this area, please visit the national organisation of Doula UK at www.doula.org.uk

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

BOOK NOW for advertising in our Jan/Feb Issue - Due out Jan 3rd email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Music with Mummy Themed, fun music classes for children aged up to 5 years in small groups Jolly Babies – specially designed for babies under one year Jackie @ Windsor: 01344 301954 Caroline @ Ascot: 01753 850772 www.musicwithmummy.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Mums Who Mean Business Getting kids active, while having fun

Work from Home Opportunity Suits stay­at­home mums/dads, retired people, entrepreneurs or anyone looking for 2nd income • Choose your hours • Be your own boss!

• No stock to carry • Ongoing commission Call Paul on 07944436745 (Home): 0800 0933188 Email: save.earn@uwclub.net

Advertise for as little as £60 plus VAT.

Call: 01628 627586

Inspired by her passion for getting kids physically active, Sima Stannage turned from aerobics teacher to children’s party entertainer, with a difference.

1. Who are you and where do you live?

I am Sima Stannage owner of Sima's Action Kids.

I live in Maidenhead with my husband and two children, Natasha (aged 12) and Chloe (aged 7).

2. Why did you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

I officially set up my business of children's party entertainers and preschool activity clubs in 2005. I have always worked in physical activity, fitness and dance, but my real passion has always been to entertain and play games with children.

3. What did you used to do?

I trained as a fitness and aerobics instructor and taught at numerous health clubs and leisure centres in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and London.

4. What inspired you to set up the business?

While I was teaching, I was also studying part time for an MSc in Exercise & Health Behaviour (specialising in children) at City University and after graduating I worked in health & fitness promotion, setting up schemes in various London boroughs to promote physical activity to children and in particular teenage girls. I also trained to deliver physical activity to preschool children and set up sessions for this age group too. But it was not until I entertained the children at my daughter Natasha's 4th birthday party that I turned my passion into a business.

The entertainment at Natasha's party was such a huge success that many of the parents asked if they could book me for their children's parties.

The deciding factor was when Natasha said to me that evening "the party was great and the best thing about my party was YOU mummy!'

This convinced me that I would be on the right track to set up a kids entertainment business, after all the best critic of a children's entertainer has to be the birthday child. An advert in Families magazine resulted in lots of bookings and I have never looked back.

5. What are your plans for the future?

I would like the business to be involved in more events and corporate functions. Sima's Action Kids have been the official kids’ entertainers at the last two Let's Rock The Moor festivals and this summer's Maidenhead Festival as well as other events and we would like to expand this area of the business to participate in more festivals & shows. Of course the most important part of the business will always be birthday parties as this is what we do best, so I hope that we can be the entertainers at as many birthday parties locally as we can. I already have a team of entertainers that deliver the party service brilliantly but the most important team member is 7-year-old Chloe, a genuine Sima's action kid, who is already fully trained to run her own parties, as soon she is old enough!

For more information go to simasactionkids.com or call 07956993439

RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle,

please call Diana Page

01235 533362 07747 086518

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Classifieds Professional make-up in the comfort of your own home Taplow based Sheridan Smith set up her own business, Kiss and Make-up, to bring bespoke make-up services direct to you.

1. Who are you and where do you live?

My name is Sheridan Stone, I live in Taplow, Maidenhead and I’ve been a make-up artist in the local area for the past 14 years. My talents cover occasion/party, studio, bridal and editorial make up artistry.

2. Why did you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

Once I had my first child I was thinking about a career that would fit in around the family.

Setting up a business of my own was an ideal opportunity to create that perfect balance between home life and work life. After all do you live to work or work to live?

3. What did you used to do?

I started out as a recruitment consultant, which wasn’t me really - I was creative. Make-up was a passion and whilst helping a friend who was in the industry, I decided without question make up was for me, it was the way forward.

4. What inspired you to set up the business?

Initially I was inspired to take make-up out of the salons and into the comfort of people’s

homes. I felt that getting ready for an occasion would be more enjoyable and fun for the client if they were relaxing in their dressing gown in their own surroundings. In the 90’s make-up went through a very natural, sun-kissed phase, I wanted to try and inspire people to change the trend a little and experiment with make up and colour again, to be more adventurous.

5. What are your plans for the future?

In the future I would like to offer more to my clients, feeding their interest in make-up. If I could organise more lessons either on an individual or group basis I‘d be happy. Teaching in groups is a fun way to learn and hugely beneficial too as you can practice on each other, so the party idea is the perfect scenario. They are fabulously exciting for children too, especially when I bring along a photographer and turn it into a fashion shoot, the little ones go mad for it. I intend on continuously ‘tweaking’ packages to suit my ladies out there whether it’s for a birthday party, business occasion, kiddie party or bridal party!

Local business born from love of party planning Organising movie premieres and press tours gave mum-of-two, Rebecca Mallet, the perfect skillset to set up The Fab Little Events Company.

1. Who are you and where do you live?

I'm Rebecca Mallet and I live in Marlow, Buckinghamshire with my husband and two boys.

2. Why did you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

I set up The Fab Little Events Company to fit my work around my two children whilst doing something I really enjoy.

3. What did you used to do?

I worked in events and publicity within the film industry for over 12 years; my last role was Director of International Publicity for Paramount Pictures. It was an amazing career, which I loved, but the International travel and fulltime job with long hours became too difficult to juggle with having a family. The job gave me invaluable experience managing worldwide press tours, organising premiere parties and international interview schedules for A-list actors and directors, all of which I felt could be utilised to setting up my own business organising more locally-based events and parties.

4. What inspired you to set up the business?

I love creating a 'look' for an occasion and

Telephone: 01628 627 586

For more information phone 07973121737, email kissandmakeup@sky.com, view gallery at kissandmakeup.carbonmade.com.

Alekhya Art Classes Learn Drawing and Painting with a trained Artist. Age 5 and above.

Tel: 01628 634418 email: shalinib@gmail.com alekhyaartclasses.wix.com/maidenhead

Bookings being taken for September Pop along for a summer drop-in session!

A new and exciting class for mums and babies to learn Spanish together in a fun and engaging way.

Bilingual nursery rhymes, mum and baby yoga, massage, reflexology and lovely flamenco rhythms all combine to make a unique and magical class.

ellie@babylovesspanish.co.uk

07868 711581

www.facebook.com/babylovesspanish

Candle-making parties for children and grown-ups!

coming up with fun and fabulous ideas for all kinds of events, however small. I felt that with so many busy mums juggling a million balls on a daily basis I could offer a service that ensures they can still throw a party without all the stress and hassle that often goes along with it.

I might be organising the caterers and party favours for a 50th birthday lunch one week then a garden party for a 40th or a corporate drinks reception the next...

Plus I’m always happy to organise children's parties for mums who have heavy workloads or simply have too much on to fit it all in. The Fab Little Events Company simply organises their event from start to finish - so they don't have to.

5. What are your plans for the future?

I plan to build the business into a successful, well-known company that creates Fab Little Events for those in Marlow and the surrounding areas.

For more information email rebeccamallet@rocketmail.com, call 07771 604212 or go to facebook.com/TheFabLittleEventsCompany

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013

www.candlebyparties.co.uk

Tel: 07771 851435

HELP WANTED WORKING FROM HOME Our natural healthcare co. is expanding in Bucks and Berks.

If you'd like to work from home flexibly around your kids and/or other commitments, full-time or parttime, we'd love to hear from you!

Call Sarah today for more info

020 8133 8266

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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v Do you frequently feel exasperated, stressed, or embarrassed by your child’s behaviour? v Do you often get irritated by your child? v Do you have to threaten and shout to get your child to cooperate? v Do you frequently argue with your partner about how to handle your child’s behaviour?

The next groups start w/c 20th January 2014 in Windsor & Maidenhead