Families Birmingham, Solihull & Sutton Coldfield Magazine

Birmingham

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www.astontavern.co.uk | 0121 328 0095

Issue 42 November/December 2017

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To advertise email: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk R FO AS M EW T N RIS 17 0 CH 2

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Birmingham Welcome to another action-packed issue of Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield magazine.

Here we are, fast heading towards the end of another year – which has been incredibly busy with many changes taking place nationally, locally and most likely personally too.

As always, Families is proud to bring you and your family a wealth of news, events, activities and so much more, so you can get the best out of our fabulous region of the country. Take a look at our competitions page – you could be one of the 9 sets of families to win a set of tickets to see a local production this November or December. Also have a look at the 10 things to do this Christmas article. In this issue there’s everything to keep your family healthy and happy, educated and entertained from now until the New Year, and beyond.

Have you followed us on social media? Look for us on @familiesbirminghammag and @familiesbirm and make sure you get in on all the latest local and national parenting news, views, offers, vouchers, flash competitions…. and lots of laughs!

Finally, among the frantic shopping trips, the making of the countless lists (checking them twice!), and the seemingly endless preparation and efforts to give your families a wonderful season, do take time to stop and relax at some point. Remember, you deserve to enjoy it too.

Contents In this Issue...

4 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

News Competitions Education How to help your child with their spellings Holiday childcare

12

Musical opportunities Clubs and classes How to support your family’s immune system during flu season The Secret Lives of 4 -5 year olds 10 things your family must do this Christmas Theatre, concerts and entertainment What’s On

4

16 17

I wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas. See you in the New Year!

Suzanne Brown, Editor

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Next issue:

January-February ‘New Year’ issue Booking deadline for advertisers: Friday 8th December m: 07807 352087 e: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Design: Matt Walton Design Print: Warners Midlands PLC, Manor Lane, Bourne, PE10 9PH © Families Birmingham © Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield magazine is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield magazine. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield magazine; our distributors, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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3

News

To advertise call: 07807 352087

Winter Wonderland Extravaganza at Aston Tavern Winter Wonderland is back for its third year celebrating all things Christmas! After a popular first and second year Santa will ride his sleigh into the Aston Tavern once again to greet all the children and bring them gifts on Sunday 17th December 2017.

You’ll find a Christmas fayre for your last-minute shopping, including freshly baked goods, chutneys, local vineyards, handcrafted jewellery, upcycled crafts, Christmas decorations and wreaths.

Sup some warm mulled wine, hear the cheerful carol singers and enjoy a festive afternoon tea. Aston Tavern will look stunning, complete with a real Christmas tree and cosy wood-burning stoves. Santa’s Grotto will be a fully themed scene complete with sleigh and ornamental reindeer set in the garden.

Set just 15 minutes outside of Birmingham City Centre, via Sat Nav: B6 7FF / Train: Aston or Witton, 10-minute walk.

17 December | 11am – 4pm | 0121 328 0095 | Adult: Free; Child: £5 | astontavern.co.uk Booking essential for Santa!

Outstanding exam results, auditions and even a theatre trip!

Rutleigh Norris School of Dance is proud to announce that their students achieved 100% pass rate for their Royal Academy of Dance Summer 2017 examinations with over 30% at Distinction (above the UK average), and 100% pass rate with a whopping 82% at Distinction for their Tap and Modern Jazz exams.

How children eat says a lot about their personality Most toddlers go through bouts of picky eating, but infants with more inhibited personalities are more likely to turn up their nose at new foods, according to researchers.

This term, 150 RNSD students participated in RAD and IDTA Winter exams across their well-established branches in Bournville, Moseley and Alcester, as well as participating in regional dance competitions.

RNSD love giving their students the quality opportunities to perform, and recently held auditions for the main parts for their upcoming production of “Alice’s Adventures” which will be showing at the Palace Theatre, Redditch in July 2018.

It’s also in the pipeline that there’ll be an inspirational backstage trip at the end of term to The Old Rep to watch their production of Alice after the success of last year’s backstage trip to see BRB’s The Nutcracker.

New students can be sure of a warm family welcome at RNSD, and are invited to participate in the July 2018 production. rnsd.co.uk | principal@rnsd.co.uk | 01789 731 000

In a study, researchers observed how infants responded to new foods and new toys throughout their first 18 months. The study found that infants who were wary of new toys also tended to be less accepting of new foods, suggesting early food attitudes stem from personality.

“From the time they’re very young, some infants react more positively to new things, whereas other infants are more ‘withdrawing’ and react negatively to the same stimuli,” said Kameron Moding from the University of Colarado, Denver and author of the paper.

“Keep trying! Research has consistently shown that infants and children can learn to accept new foods if their caregivers continue to offer them” Moding said.

For more information visit www.sciencedaily.com

4

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

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News

@familiesbirminghammag

Family Fun at THSH, Birmingham Looking for something to keep all members of the family entertained this winter and beyond?

THSH has the whole season covered!

Matt Haig: Father Christmas and Me - 25 Nov, 10.30am, £9.50 £22.50, Town Hall. Join Matt for this exclusive, interactive reading of his popular book, followed by a book signing. Family event for ages 7+ Love Actually with Live Orchestra - 4 Dec & 6 Dec, 7.30pm, £42.50 - £68, Symphony Hall & ICC Hall 1. Love Actually will be screened live, featuring a full orchestra performing the enchanting score.

Stick Man: 26 Dec – 12 Jan, £8.50 - £17.50, Town Hall. Touching, funny and original, this award-winning production features a trio of top actors and is packed full of puppetry, songs, live music and funky moves.

Blue Man Group: 28 Dec – 6 Jan, £28 - £58, The ICC Hall 1. Blue Man Group mixes art, music, comedy and state-of-the-art technology to create an unforgettable celebration of human connection.

Tiddler & Other Terrific Tales: 30 Mar – 3 Apr, 11am/1.30pm/4pm, £12.50 - £17.50, Town Hall. Under the sea, out on the farm and into the jungle, these terrific tales are woven together with live music and puppetry. thsh.co.uk | 0121 780 3333

Quote FAMILIESB to get 45% ticke discount whe t booking onlin n e!*

Baby to Toddler Event, Birmingham NEC 2 - 3 Dec

From the company that brought you THE GRUFFALO & THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE

The organisers of the fantastic Baby Show are bringing a brand new event to the NEC this winter. Baby To Toddler, the shopping event for modern parents, is a two day shopping event in association with Baby Planet and will give visitors access to exclusive offers and Black Friday deals from some of the biggest baby and toddler brands you know and trust. Taking place at Birmingham NEC on the weekend of 2nd – 3rd December 2017, exhibitors will also include not-on-the high street boutique brands. It is the one-stop-shop for everything parents need for their little ones with the aim of making parents’ lives easier – perfect in the run-up to Christmas!

Attendees will also be given the chance to purchase a Project Baby Goody Bag worth up to £30 for just £1! 50p of which will be donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital.

On the door tickets are £12 but Families Birmingham readers can have a 45% discount to £6.50 using the code FAMILIESB via www.babytotoddlerevents.co.uk * Saving is based on the standard on-the-door ticket price of £12. Advance Box Office closes midnight 1 Dec 2017. £1 transaction fee applies.

‘All Different, All Equal’ Anti-Bullying Week runs from 13 to 17 November this year and the theme, ‘All Different, All Equal’ aims to promote difference and equality in schools.

The idea is to help children and young people celebrate what makes them, and others, unique and help them understand why it’s important that every child feels included at school and able to be themselves without fear of bullying. www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

����� “The perfect Christmas Show”

Time Out Three Weeks The List

The Stage

For ages 3+

TUE 19 DEC - SUN 7 JAN 0844 338 5000* birminghamhippodrome.com

Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome *Calls cost 4.5p per min plus your phone company's access charge.

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

5

News

To advertise email: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk

SATs Results: Still ‘considerable’ difference between local authorities A comparison of the provisional results of the primary school Key Stage 2 SATs tests for children in local authority areas throughout the UK show that there is a “considerable” difference between the different areas, according to figures published by the Department of Education.

In reading, the number of children reaching the expected standard ranged from 61% to 86%, depending on the local authority area.

This is a range of 25 percentage points and the widest range of any of the subjects. The good news is that the difference in the range is decreasing and is down from 29 percentage points last year.

In writing, which is teacher-assessed, the number of children reaching the expected standard, ranged from 67 per cent to 85 per cent. This range of 18 percentage points, although still wide, has also reduced from 26 percentage points last year. Whilst, in maths, the range of difference between children reaching expected standards was 67 per cent to 88 per cent – a gap of 21 percentage points. This gap was also down from 25 percentage points last year.

For more information and to see how your local area fared visit www.gov.uk/government/statistics/national-curriculumassessments-key-stage-2-2017-provisional.

Parents eligible for childcare compensation Thousands of parents who have missed out on Tax-Free Childcare due to technical problems with the Childcare Service website may be able to claim compensation from the Government.

The Childcare Service website, which is run by HMRC, has been plagued with technical glitches since it went live in April, affecting parents’ ability to register for Tax-Free Childcare and 30 hours childcare.

In order to receive 30 hours free childcare in September, eligible parents needed to have received a code from HMRC by 31 August and taken it to their childcare provider to secure a place.

New guidance published on the gov.uk website under the heading ‘Childcare Service Compensation’ states that: ‘If you’ve been unable to access Tax-Free Childcare through your childcare account for technical reasons, you may be able to claim compensation.’

For more information call HMRC on 0300 123 4097 or visit www.gov.uk/guidance/childcare-service-compensation

Nurturing fearless learners Explore’s tuition centres have a proven track record of delivering academic and social progress to children age 4 – 14 years. Their courses are tailored to each child’s ability.

To book a free trial at your nearest centre in Birmingham, Solihull or Sutton Coldfield call 030 3003 4006, and quote Families Birmingham magazine. explorelearning.co.uk

6

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

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News

@familiesbirm

Top ways to write to Santa this year

G

one are the days of sending letters up the chimney with present requests!

Now contacting Santa is an altogether more fun and exciting mission.

ATTENTION! DON’T FORGET TO CHECK THE

ELF-OMATIC 3000

LIST TWICE!

by Chrissie Wilson

Dear Lucy, I’ve been very busy checkin g who has been naughty and nice. My special machine gives me the names of every little boy and girl in the world, even Hayley. Which list do you think they will be on?

One of my lists is full of names! Can you see which is longer, the naughty list or the nice list? Here’s a clue: The long one needs a lot of elves to hold it up!

This year, my machine is telling me that you’ve been a very good girl and you’ve done well at school I’m so proud of you and so is Daddy!

My elves have been making something extra special for you. Can you see which elf is looking after your special present, Lucy?

Top ways to get in touch include: The Royal Mail: Write to the man in red by Friday 8th December and get a personal letter back.

See www.royalmail.com/letters-to-santa for more info.

Write an email to Santa at emailsanta.com and he will send you a reply faster than Rudolph can fly!

You can surprise your children with a personalised letter from Father Christmas whilst helping to raise funds for the NSPCC (right). All letters are age-appropriate and come with beautiful illustrations.

Request your letter delivered via RudolphMail at www.nspcc.org.uk (suggested donation £5).

Get a personalised video from Santa using Portable North Pole App at www.portablenorthpole. com/en/ and Santa will commend those with good behaviour and offer a few words of encouragement for those who could improve!

I can’t believe you’re 4 now! I hope you keep brushin g your teeth so you’re always on my nice list. I’m very excited to put all your present s under the tree.

See you soon!

Merry Christmas!

P.S. Keep up the good work

at school!

Young star shines bright A young girl from Harborne is ‘sparkling’ in the world premiere of Nativity! The Musical at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre. Beatrice Scholefield, aged 10, is one of 27 local children who have been chosen to perform in the new live stage show alongside a professional cast. Beatrice, who was given her big break after auditioning alongside hundreds of other children, says: “I still can’t quite believe I have been chosen. The show is amazing!”

0121 236 4455 | birmingham-rep.co.uk/nativity | ends Nov 12th (UK tour ends Jan 6th)

7

*Will your child be doing something amazing in the New Year which you would like to tell the readers of Families Birmingham Magazine all about? Send 100 words or less to editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk for the chance to feature in our January – February issue.

Beatrice, 10 year old star

Photo by J. Wilson

Make Christmas Magical

TIME OUT

THE STAGE

Little Angel Theatre: Me ...

Wed 15 Nov - Thu 30 Nov / ages 2+

macbirmingham.co.uk

0121 446 3232

Midlands Arts Centre Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham , B12 9QH Registered Company no. 718349 | Registered Charity no. 528979

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

7

Competitions

To advertise call: 07807 352087

WIN a Christmas theatre treat for all the family Families Birmingham Magazine has an abundance Lily and the Little Snow Bear - @The Core Theatre, Solihull, age 3+ of family tickets (for 2 adults and 2 children) to give This funny, heart-warming tale of friendship is away for the main Christmas shows across our region. the perfect treat for Christmas with exquisite puppets, enchanting music and a magical Choose your favourites and enter our competitions. snowy setting. The Core is offering one family Why not enter them all? ticket for the showing on Weds 20 Dec, 1pm.

What the Moon Saw

– Dance Xchange @Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome, age 3+

A charming new dance and circus show, this interactive re-imagination of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale brings you a trove of secrets and surprises that will delight and excite. Come dressed in pyjamas! The 2 sets of winners will receive their family ticket for either the Friday or the Saturday morning performance.

Fri 1 - Sat 2 Dec, dancexchange.org.uk, 0844 338 5000

Little Angel Theatre: Me

- @mac Birmingham, age 2+

Enjoy an enchanting family puppet story this November from Little Angel Theatre. It’s a touching tale about a mother penguin and the love for her child. mac Birmingham is offering two sets of family tickets to see a performance between Weds 15 – Fri 17 November.

Wed 15 – Thur 30 Nov, macbirmingham. co.uk, 0121 446 3232 Please note earlier deadline date

Wed 20 –Sun 24 Dec, thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk, 0121 704 6962

The Hundred And One Dalmatians - @Birmingham Repertory

Theatre, age 5+ This delightful tale created by Dodie Smith, brilliantly transformed for the stage by Debbie Isitt, is the perfect festive treat for all the family. The Birmingham Rep is offering one family ticket for the showing on Mon 4 Dec, 7pm.

30 Nov - 13 Jan, birmingham-rep.co.uk, 0121 236 4455

Alice in Wonderland - @Old Rep

Theatre, age 4+ recommended This Christmas don’t be late for this very important date!

Alice encounters white rabbits, bizarre riddles, mad tea parties and the Queen of Hearts, on her enchanted, strange and extraordinary Wonderland adventure.

Will she ever find her way home? The Old Rep is offering a family ticket for the 1.30pm performance on Sat 2 Dec. 20 Nov – 30 Dec, oldreptheatre.co.uk, 0121 359 9444

The Snow Dragon - @Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome, age 3+ From Tall Stories, the company that brought you The Gruffalo, The Snow Dragon comes to Birmingham this Christmas. Toe-tapping songs and lots of laughs. The Hippodrome is offering a family ticket for the showing on Wed 27 Dec, 2pm. Thu 21 Dec - Sun 7 Jan, birminghamhippodrome.com, 0844 338 5000 Jack and the Beanstalk – Sutton Coldfield Town Hall, all ages welcome Join panto hero, Jack Trott as he battles the giant; dodges evil goblins, and falls for the lovely Jill. Laugh at the hilarious antics of Dame Trott, the world’s most glamorous milk maid, and her dim-witted son, Silly Billy, who doesn’t know one end of a pantomime cow from the other!

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall is offering a family ticket for a date/time of winner’s choice (subject to availability). 13 - 29 Dec, townhallsuttoncoldfield.co.uk, 0121 296 9543 TO ENTER the competition(s) of your choice simply answer the following question: At which venue does your chosen event take place? Then, email your answer, your best contact number, and full postal address to editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk by Monday 20th November (Little Angel Theatre: Me entries must be submitted by Thurs 9th November). Ensure you put the name of the event followed by the word ‘Competition’ in the subject line of your email. One competition entry per email. T&Cs on page 19.

8

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

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Education

@familiesbirminghammag

Edgbaston High School’s Preparatory School takes an energetic and encouraging approach Edgbaston High School aims to provide the highest quality of education for girls at every stage of their development, and this begins with building strong foundations in the Preparatory School.

Westbourne - we hold your daughter’s hand until we no longer need to Westbourne, home to our Nursery, Kindergarten and Reception classes, provides the perfect environment for girls aged 2½ - 5 years. This unique setting helps pupils to develop confidence and consideration for others. We follow the EYFS curriculum guidelines but many girls in Reception work above national levels, with a good balance between learning through play and subject work including science, music, art and P.E.

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Preparatory School - fostering a love of learning “The school’s unique approach to pastoral care works handin-hand with an energetic and encouraging approach to learning,� says Mrs Sally Hartley, Head of the Preparatory School. “Pupils achieve high academic standards and benefit from small class sizes and specialist subject teachers in science, music, languages and P.E.�

In addition, the school has a strong musical and sporting tradition, and pupils are actively encouraged to participate, whatever their ability. Mrs Hartley continues: “Beyond the traditional curriculum, a diverse range of extra-curricular activities such as fencing, LAMDA and ballet is offered.�

Pupils are exposed to a wide range of enjoyable physical and mental challenges including residential opportunities and outdoor education courses.

EHS girls sparkle with determination, energy and enthusiasm, and are our best ambassadors.

Do visit us to see the difference an EHS education can make.

We look forward to meeting you!

Contact Ms Boyd in the Admissions department for a prospectus and more information: admissions@edgbastonhigh.co.uk or 0121 454 5831. familiesonline.co.uk 

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Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

9â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Education

To advertise email: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Helping your child with spelling: A parent’s guide The school year is now well underway, and your child is probably bringing home weekly spelling lists to study. Here are some activities you can try at home with your child to help them with their spelling skills: Show your child how words can be broken down into syllables e.g. together = to-get-her, discovery = dis-cov-er-y.

Enjoy playing word games with your child, e.g. Scrabble, Boggle, Hangman and Word lotto.

Ask your child to draw pictures for each of the spelling words.

Get them to write the word below the picture. Take all the pictures and create a spelling reference book.

Play the ‘plasticine writing challenge’. Flatten a piece of plasticine and use a pencil to ‘write’ a spelling word in it. Now look at the word together. After a while, smooth over the plasticine and challenge your child to write the word from memory.

Create a word search with your child’s spelling words. You can do this by making a grid of 10 squares by 10 squares, writing the spelling words in the grid, then filling up the other squares with random letters. Keep a list of your child’s spelling words nearby for them to refer to.

Together, think of ways to remember the words. For example, You HEAR with your EAR; He will be a FRIEND until the END; Big Elephants Can Always Upset Small Elephants. These types of memorisation tricks are called mnemonics.

Trace, copy and replicate. Write the word out on a sheet of paper ensuring that it is spelt correctly and is large enough to trace over. Trace over the word and say it at the same time.

Then, copy the word you have just written and write it out as you say it. Turn the page over and write the word as you say it, and then check that it is spelt it correctly.

Rainbow writing. Using coloured pencils in different ways can help to make parts of words more memorable. Highlight the tricky part of a word or write the tricky part in a different colour.

When studying spelling, also encourage your child to use the ‘Look, Say, Cover, Write, Check’ method.

Look: first look at the whole word carefully and if there is one part of the word that is difficult, look at that part in more detail.

Say: say the word as you look at it, using different ways of pronouncing it if that will make it more memorable.

Cover: cover the word.

Write: write the word from memory, saying the word as you do so.

Check: Have you got it right? If yes, try writing it again and again. If not start again –look, say cover, write, check. Repeat the process and keep practising until the word has been spelt correctly three times Above all, ensure that your child feels confident that, as a writer, they always have your interest, admiration and support.

By Andrew Campbell

VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS

11+ VERBAL REASONING VOCABULARY FLASH CARDS Expand your antonym and synonym knowledge and achieve a higher 11+ score Recommended by tutors for the verbal reasoning element of the Durham CEM test

www.vocabularyflashcards.co.uk 10

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Education

Holiday Childcare

@familiesbirm

Explore learning: Helping you make the most of school parents’ evenings

S

o you’ve been to a meeting with your child’s teacher and you’ve got an overview of how your child is progressing. But what can you do next to help?

Discuss with your child the feedback from their teacher, they may already be aware of what they need to work on but if they don’t, talk about it. Set a goal together of something they would like to achieve based on their feedback. Make a plan together about how they are going to get there.

For example: You’re told they give up every time they have to learn something new, like times tables. The goal you come up with together is to have a can-do attitude. Steps to getting there could be learning the tables in small batches. Praise them when they are being positive towards their learning so they know what kind of attitude is expected.

If you’ve set any goals with the teacher, then plan a time to review these. Depending on how the teacher likes to work this could be an email, call or face-to-face catch up 6 - 8 weeks after the initial meeting.

You may come away from a meeting and realise you’ve forgotten something or you don’t understand how the school is reporting on progress. Contact the school if you still have questions, or check their website for information.

Ask others for help, don’t worry if you don’t understand something or want to know what others are doing. Lots of parents will be in the same position so talk to them for advice.

Inspire your child through music -

Learn new skills

-

Build confidence

-

Make new friends

Alternatively, there are some great advice websites like theschoolrun.co.uk and oxfordowl.co.uk or if you have a tutor, talk to them. At Explore Learning the tutors always help parents when they need advice and will take into account your child’s recent reports and feedback when tailoring their learning.

Never be afraid to ask, there is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your child’s learning! explorelearning .co.uk | 030 3003 4006

Action-packed childcare this

Ofsted

registered

Christmas Holiday 2nd - 5th January Open from 8am - 6pm

Sutton Coldfield Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School

Fantastic early bird offer for Christmas Holiday

4FOR £64

We accept childcare vouchers

DAYS

Award winning Ofsted registered Holiday Camps, Term Time courses and Parties for children aged 4-11 in Harborne, Sutton Coldfield and coming soon to Solihull

Quote FAMILIESWM2017 for up to 10% off! thestringsclub.org/westmidlands | 0121 296 9204

familiesonline.co.uk

*Offer ends 5pm Friday 15th December 2017 8am-4pm only. Terms and conditions apply

Join us for February Half Term and the Easter Holiday at our Sutton Coldfield, Solihull and Walsall camps.

See website for details

For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979

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11

Music Classes

To advertise call: 07807 352087

DMS Heart of England Music Academy Dorridge Music School, an independent music school based in Knowle, was established in 1985 teaching children from 4 years of age to adults, from complete beginners to Diploma Level.

The school offers accredited courses, is an examination centre for the LCM also teaching ABRSM, and is proud of its exceptionally high achievement record.

With so much for the family to get involved in DMS is unique in offering musical theatre with vocals, drama and dance as well as instruments including drums, guitar, piano, keyboard, organ, violin, flute, recorder, saxophone and oboe.

Lessons are available 7 days a week, both daytime and evenings, and offers group as well as individual tuition.

There’s an adult choir on Mondays at 8pm plus ‘The Crotchet Club’ (music education for 4/5 year olds) and band sessions for all levels of player.

Performance opportunities are given to students with its flagship concert brand ‘A Fusion of Music and Dance’ taking place at the prestigious Symphony Hall every 18 months.

For more details: @DorridgeMusicSchoolKnowle @DMSMusicSchool w: dorridgemusicschool.com t: 01564 772 831 e: dorridgemusicschool@ hotmail.com Reg charity 1147223 Patron: Mr Bev Bevan

Music,

the Christmas gift that lasts a lifetime Christmas is coming and musical instruments remain popular choices for special gifts under the tree. But where do parents/ guardians start when considering what to buy? And how do you make sure your child gets the most from their wonderful new gift? The Strings Club, offers great advice for anyone looking for a musical gift this festive season: 1. Choose an instrument to suit your child’s age. For children aged 4 or 5 the ukulele and violin are perfect because they are small and light.

2. Make sure it is the right size and good quality! Be careful when buying an instrument online. We’d recommend visiting your friendly local music shop to try out some instruments.

3. Don’t forget to accessorise! You will need things like a tuner, violin rosin, cases for ukulele/guitar.

4. Support your child. Learn how to tune the instrument - this is a hard thing for children to master and will boost your listening pleasure!

5. Practice makes perfect! Weekly music lessons will help turn their new gift into an amazing skill for life.

The Strings Club’s award-winning Term Time Classes start Saturday 13th January, from 9.30am, priced from only £15 per lesson. t: 0121 296 9204 w: thestringsclub.org/termtime

12

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs & Classes

@familiesbirminghammag

A junior Team GB… of classical music!

The National Children’s Orchestras of Great Britain are symphonic orchestras that develop the skills of some of the most exceptional young musicians in the UK. They are essentially a junior Team GB for classical music, and they love what they do.

Playing in an orchestra not only develops children musically, but also helps them to understand teamwork, appreciate leadership, explore creativity and develop their communication skills and individuality.

NCO concerts - like the upcoming performance at Symphony Hall showcase what these young musicians can achieve.

The young instrumentalists of NCO are clear advocates for the value of a creative education – even beyond the concert platform, when they can become involved in mentoring an extended family of associate members in NCO regional orchestras. NCO work in partnership with music organisations to boost membership, and are well served in the West Midlands with Music Hubs and private teachers to get even the youngest children started on their orchestral journey.

nco.org.uk | 3 Dec, 6pm | Symphony Hall | 0121 780 3333

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals.

The youngsters of NCO look forward to welcoming you to an evening of vibrant classical music and Christmas favourites.

ASK ABOUT OUR TWO WEEK TRIAL

DDMIX! & Silver Swans

Birmingham

classes available

Book today!

Unlock your child’s potential with Stagecoach Performing Arts Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage

Put your club, class, activity or event directly in front of 42,000 readers who all have children under 12 years.

Call 07807 352087 to advertise

Find out more today: stagecoach.co.uk/edgbaston edgbaston@stagecoach.co.uk

Age 3 - Adult | 01789 731 000

principal@rnsd.co.uk | www.rnsd.co.uk

™

01926 651159

Creative Courage For Life

®

DANCE & DRAMA CENTRAL STAGE SCHOOL Tap Street Jazz Musical Theatre Solihull: Adult & Children’s Classes Free places for nursery children Tel: Claire 07939 529 227 info@centralstageschool.co.uk

DUBARRIE SCHOOL OF DANCE Ballet, Tap and Jazz age 2 ½ + Branches in Yardley and Solihull Telephone: 0121 744 1422 www.dubarrieschoolofdance.com

familiesonline.co.uk

Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

Photo by Bill Hiskett

Is your child aged 7 - 13, and potentially interested in joining NCO next year? Find out more at nco.org.uk/join-in, 01934 418 855.

Solihull Young Dancers Ballet & Tap Lessons Classes from age 2 ½ + Tel: Kate on 07722 732678

Irish dancing classes for boys and girls aged 4 to adult Classes held in Selly Oak, Kings Norton and Redditch Call Louise on 07790 876 345 for information

www.granarince.co.uk

MASQUERADE MUSICAL THEATRE Youth Theatre Group, Age 5+

Garretts Green Lane, Sheldon, B26 2SA

Telephone: 0121 722 3761 www.masquerademusicaltheatre.com

www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk

MUSIC 1-to-1 drum tuition, City Centre location B I R M I N G H A M Rock School grades 1-8.

Ages 4 upwards.

Book online @ www.birminghamdrumschool.co.uk

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

13

Health

To advertise email: editor@familiesbirmingham.co.uk

Support your family’s immune system during flu season D

oes the sound of a cough or sneeze make you cringe this time of year?

Warding off flu and colds requires strategy in the winter months.

If you haven’t been sick yourself, no doubt you’ve already seen some red, runny noses at nursery and school pickups! Now is the time to take some preventive measures with whole food nutritional supplements.

A great way to ensure your family is getting an adequate amount of nutrients to boost their immune systems this season is to add: - Juice Plus+ Plant Based Omegas capsules - Juice Plus+ Fruit and Vegetable chewables Taking these, in conjunction with healthy eating, will help to ensure your family’s immune system is getting the nutrients needed to perform.

Increasing your child’s fruit and vegetable intake is the key to overall optimal health and an easy way to do that for FREE is with Juice Plus+ Children Health Study.

Text ‘CHS’ to 07943 112186 for an exclusive £20 cashback (t&cs apply)

By Lesha Woodstock - regional Juice Plus rep |

@WaterInfusedWithLove |

Nutritional Therapist – treats the root cause of health issues

@WaterInfusedWithLove |

@WaterInfusedWithLove

Brain Tumour Research Christmas Cards Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card for 2017.

Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year.

Naz Health and Harmony makes diet plans for specific health issues and individual needs of children, women and the elderly.

For instance, if your child has been diagnosed with dyslexia, ADHD, OCD or if they have problems with their sleep pattern, Naz Health and Harmony supports by investigating dietary issues and behaviour patterns that may affect your child’s health.

Some children suffer from allergies which occur when the body’s immune system has an exaggerated response to foreign particles which it may perceive as harmful. In the case of hay fever, this foreign body is pollen (animal hair, dust and detergents are other common allergies).

Feeling Low?

Boost your immunity this winter Contact Nazneen at:

NAZ HEALTH AND HARMONY

Registered Nutritional Therapist BA(Hons) DIP CNM NNA Member Tel: 07853 683605 Email: nhanjra@hotmail.com Get Help with Weight Problems, Digestive Issues, Hormonal Imbalances, Women’s Health, Skin Conditions, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Autoimmune Conditions, Prenatal and Postnatal Nutrition

14

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

The Hope Tree cards will join other festive favourites in the charity’s range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital brain tumour research. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

Order via: www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/ christmas-cards

After the child’s circumstances have been examined, Naz Health can recommend a personalised treatment of dietary adjustments, food supplements, or a change in environment to boost the immune system. Naz Health looks into the root cause of health issues, rather than give out ‘a pill for an ill’.

07853 683605 | nhanjra@hotmail.com

familiesonline.co.uk

Parenting

@familiesbirm

The secret lives of 4 & 5 year olds at school Most parents and carers wish they could be a fly-on-the-wall when their child starts school. Well, Channel 4’s Secret Lives of 4 & 5 Year Olds, which returns this November, allows them to do just that. Filmed in a specially rigged Essex school, the new series aims to give viewers a child’s perspective of their transition to a school setting.

Claire Winter talks to Dr Elizabeth Kilbey, a psychologist from the show, about what she learnt whilst filming the series Can you tell us more about the series?

“It offers this wonderful window, through which we can watch the children playing and interacting with each other. We give them lots of things to do, to see how they manage and play.

It’s an amazing way of showing viewers what their children are actually doing at school.”

How did the children cope with the transition to school?

“Parents main worry is generally ‘will my child be alright?’ and some children are very anxious. A great example is that wonderful picture of Prince George looking a bit worried on his first day of school. What I can now confidently tell parents and carers is that their children are absolutely fine, once they are gone. They are doing lots of interesting things and coping brilliantly.”

Not all children cope with the transition so well, what advice would you give to them?

“Take a calm, pragmatic approach. Essentially children tend to be worried about what they think might happen. In reality, they are going to be fine, but they just don’t know that yet. Be confident and reassure your child that everything will be okay. Children are inherently social beings.

They are curious and want to interact with people so even timid children will find something that sparks their imagination. Remember, the school setting is designed to engage them. It’s getting them to go in which is the tough bit. Once they are there they’ll be fine.”

What advice can you give parents whose children haven’t started school yet?

“Children need to develop communications skills, get used to talking and relating to others and playing cooperatively. All of these social abilities will be vital later in life. Encourage lots of play with other children and get them to question how things work because natural curiosity is the main driver for learning.”

What was the most interesting insight you gained from watching the children?

“I learnt that children of this age are hilarious and multi-layered. They are not that different from adults. They have amazingly rich social lives. They test hypotheses, ask questions, fail and then carry on. They are resilient and incredibly complicated, just like we are.”

‘The Secret Lives of 4 and 5 Year Olds’ will be aired on Channel 4 in November.

By Claire Winter

Rates of SIDS at record low

2008|2009

2008|2009

RUSSELL NURSERY SCHOOL Children aged from 3 months to 5 years

Rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have shown another decrease in England and Wales according to newly released figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The 2015 figures show a decrease of 25% since 2013 and continue the trend of record low SIDS rates in England and Wales for the second year running.

Other points to emerge from the figures: • Unexplained infant deaths accounted for 7.4% of all infant deaths occurring in 2015.

• Around 6 in every 10 unexplained deaths were recorded as sudden infant deaths.

• Just under two-thirds of all unexplained infant familiesonline.co.uk

deaths were boys in 2015 (127 deaths).

The ONS attribute the decrease to a reduction in maternal smoking and increased awareness of safer sleep advice.

Leading SIDS charity, The Lullaby Trust, cautions that it is important not to become complacent and following safer sleep advice remains as vital as ever.

For more information on safe sleeping advice visit www.lullabytrust.org.uk

Ofsted Outstanding

• Daily home cooking • Interactive Whiteboard/Table • CCTV cameras in every room • Free Grant places available for age 2, 3 & 4 years • Free 30 hours grant available for age 3+

Tel: 0121 777 4902

130 Russell Rd, Hall Green, B’ham B28 8SQ

Other sites 621 Fox Hollies Road, Hall Green, Birmingham.

B28 9DW Tel: 0121 777 3778

Small World Nursery, 975 Stratford Road, Hall Green, Birmingham B28 8BG Tel: 0121 693 3071

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

15

Christmas Fun!

To advertise call: 07807 352087

10 things your family must do this Christmas Every day we get closer to Christmas the children (and adults!) get a little bit more excited. Here are some great ideas to get in the festive mood with the whole family 1. It wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be Christmas without a Panto.

Oh no it wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t!

Many families make it a tradition to watch a festive show, such as Cinderella, Birmingham Hippodrome, and Jack and the Beanstalk, at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall and The Core Theatre, Solihull. Other family theatrical productions include The 101 Dalmatians, Birmingham Repertory Theatre; Alice in Wonderland, The Old Rep Theatre; Tall Stories: The Snow Dragon, The Patrick Centre, Hippodrome; Lily and the Little Snow Bear at The Core Theatre; thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also Raymond Briggsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Father Christmas and Little Angel Theatre: Meâ&#x20AC;Ś at mac Birmingham. Or why not see the charming classic tale What the Moon Saw at Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome. See the venuesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; websites for details.

2. Go ice-skating

Silver Blades, Solihull, silver-blades.co.uk hold sessions for all ages from tots upwards with sessions such as Penguin Club, Family Skate and Mega Skate. Snowdome, Tamworth, snowdome.co.uk, offers the UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only ice track surrounding the ice skating rink which offers an unparalled ice skating facility for all ages and abilities.

Penguin, Polar and Seal Pal skating aids are available for hire.

Stately homes and gardens are lighting up with festive brilliance across our region! Christmas at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, 29 Nov â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Jan, promises to be a stunning, magical, illuminated show.

While Kings Heath Park plays host to a Magical Lantern Festival this year, 24 Nov â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Jan, which will include larger than life lanterns, a Santaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grotto, and fairground rides for the children.

Christmas carols around the tree, hear the silver band play, enjoy mince pies and eat hot chestnuts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hoar-park.co.uk.

How about an extra special visit to the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery this December? Visit the great man in the Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s twinkling, glittering snowy grotto. 2 - 17 Dec, birminghammuseums. org.uk/bmag. Santa will ride his sleigh into The Aston Tavern once again this year to greet all the children and bring them gifts on Sunday 17th December â&#x20AC;&#x201C; astontavern.co.uk

4. Find Santa!

5. Bake with the kids

3. Check out a Christmas light show

Santa Claus is on his way to visit our little ones. Where can he be found this year?

Hatton Adventure World once again bring us their Enchanted Christmas Kingdom which includes entertainment, fun fair rides, decoration making and more â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hattonworld.com. At Hoar Park you will find their very popular annual Victorian Evening. Children can meet Father Christmas in a traditional Victorian setting. Sing

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Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Make festive gingerbread men with the children. The smell of baking, ginger and cinnamon immediately evokes the scent of Christmas. You could also be ambitious and bake biscuits to construct a gingerbread house!

6. Make reindeer food

Generate excitement about the arrival of Father Christmas and his reindeer by making a special food for Rudolf and friends. You can pre-make it and have it ready to sprinkle on the lawn or hallway on Christmas Eve, so Santa and his friends know where to go! Mix oats with edible glitter and cake sprinkles and then pop the mixture in a suitable bag.

7. Deck the Halls

The Tarnished Brass Ensemble 9LFWRULDQ (YHQLQJ and The Atherstone Chorale ursday Th ! # â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Singing carols around the tree...â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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By Claire Winter

Put on some Christmas tunes and decorate the house as a family.

Get all the decorations out and have fun making your home all Christmassy. You could also get the kids to make their own decorations - card, glue and glitter is all you need!

8. Go and see the Christmas lights in your local area If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on budget this a great way to enjoy the festive spirit without having to spend a fortune.

9. Help others

Find out what your local food bank needs at Christmas time. Maybe they are collecting stocking fillers for children or need extra festive food. Get your children to think of someone locally who might like a visit or some extra help during the Christmas period.

10. Watch a Christmas film

Snuggling up with a hot cocoa and watching a festive classic can be just what the doctor ordered after a hectic day of Christmas shopping.

familiesonline.co.ukâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;

What’s On

Quote FAMILIES BIRMINGHAM when booking!

Birmingham Repertory Theatre

WINTER SHOWS & CONCERTS

Jack and the Beanstalk Dates: 8 – 31 Dec Times: Various, see website Tickets: £17+ Malcolm Stent’s fab panto finale, celebrating 27 years in Solihull’s Pantoland!. Tickets are selling out fast!

Centenary Square, Broad Stret, Birmingham, B1 2EP, birmingham-rep.co.uk 0121 236 4455

Arena Birmingham

Genting Arena

(formerly Barclaycard Arena), King Edwards Road, B’ham B1 2AA, arenabham.co.uk 0844 33 88 222

The Birmingham International Tattoo Dates & Times: 25th Nov, 6pm; 26th Nov, 2pm Tickets: £12.50+ Experience the pomp and pageantry that is the Birmingham International Tattoo – Britain’s largest indoor tattoo. You will see marching bands, exciting displays and the spectacular Grand Finale.

A three hour family event you’ll all remember forever.s.

Exhibition Way, Birmingham, B40 1PA gentingarena.co.uk 0844 33 88 222

Cinderella Dates: 19 Dec ‘17 - 28 Jan ‘18 Tickets: £15.50 Age guidance: 5+ Cinderella will feature all of the ingredients of the perfect Hippodrome pantomime: laugh-out-loud comedy, stunning scenery and special effects… and plenty of boos and hisses.

The Core Theatre

Solihull Theatre Square, Touchwood, Homer Road, Solihull, B91 3RG, thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk 0121 704 6962 Lily & the Little Snow Bear Dates: Wed 20 - Sun 24 Dec Times: Various, see website Tickets: £10 Age: 3+ Lily loves snow! So she pops on her coat and sets out to explore outside. But then she discovers a trail of soft little footprints.

Lily is in for a very big surprise!

A funny, heartwarming tale.

Birmingham Hippodrome

Hurst Street, Southside, B5 4TB, birminghamhippodrome.com 0844 338 5000 Dance Xchange: What the Moon Saw Venue: Patrick Centre, Hippodrome Dates: Fri 1 Dec – Sat 2 Dec Tickets: £12; £8; £30 for 4 tickets (one must be conc) Age guidance: 3+ A dance and circus performance for little ones and their families.

An interactive re-imagination of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic tale brings you a trove of secrets and surprises that will delight, excite and charm. Join in the fun, come dressed in your pyjamas!

101 Dalmations Dates: 30 Nov ‘17 – 13 Jan ‘18 Times: Various Tickets: £15+ Age Guidance: 5+ This heart-warming tale is the perfect festive treat and has been brilliantly transformed for the stage by Debbie Isitt. You know the book and film, now experience the wonderful story live on stage.

CHRISTMAS FUN

and great gift ideas

Tall Stories: The Snow Dragon Venue: Patrick Centre, Hippodrome Dates: 19 Dec ‘17 - 7 Jan ‘18 Tickets: £12.50 Age guidance: 5+

LILY & THE LITTLE SNOW BEAR

Billy has everything a young goat could need – and more besides. On New Year’s Eve Billy bumps into some hungry wolves in the forest. How will he escape?

One final dollop of panto fun and silliness from Malcolm Stent

Dance and Circus Show for all the family

Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets™ in concert with full live orchestra Date: Sun 10 Dec Time: 4pm Tickets: £29.15+ Classic Harry Potter in high-definition, on a giant screen, with live music. Relive every moment as the music brings life to a story that has entranced the world.

Great value £17- £19.50 choice of starts

FRI 8 -SUN 31 DEC

Various start times.

55mins no interval.

Aftershow meet’n’greet.

Delightful small-scale show in the Studio

WED 20 - SUN 24 DEC £10

Suitable Ages 3+

Fri 1-Sat 2 Dec

Based on the bestselling book Delightful show for families £14/£12.50

19 & 20 FEB 11am & 2pm

Film fun with live host etc. £15/£10

FRI 23 FEB 2pm & 7pm

See the website for a full list of shows and events.

Patrick Centre, Birmingham Hippodrome Book 0844 338 5000 or Visit Dancexchange.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk

Box Office: 0121 704 6962 (10.30am - 4pm)

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

17

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On WINTER SHOWS & CONCERTS â&#x20AC;&#x192; mac Birmingham

Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham,B12 9QH, macbirmingham.co.uk 0121 446 3232 Little Angel Theatre: Me...

Dates: 15 - 30 Nov Time: 10.30am & 1.15pm Tickets: ÂŁ11.50 (ÂŁ9.50) Ages: 2-6 A highly visual and emotionally stirring production filled with live puppetry and performance. A lovely and touching story about a parent and their love for their child.

Quote FAMILIES BIRMINGHAM when booking!

Age: 3+ This heart-warming adaptation of Raymond Briggsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Father Christmas is full of merry touches with plenty of live music, songs and playful puppetry. Escape into the world of Father Christmas as he prepares for his busiest day of the year: Christmas Eve.

Old Rep Theatre

47 Station Place, Birmingham, B5 4DY, oldreptheatre.co.uk 0121 359 9444

Alice in Wonderland Dates: 20 Nov â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30 Dec Tickets: ÂŁ16.50; ÂŁ13.50 Go on a magical adventure down the rabbit hole and into Wonderland this Christmas! Will Alice ever find her way back home?

Join Jack Trott as he battles the the biggest giant in Panto-land, dodges the evil goblins and their leader; while all the time falling for the lovely Jill.

With a chorus of fairies, a dancing cow and singing hens you are promised laughs aplenty.

Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA, thsh.co.uk 0121 780 3333

National Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Orchestras of Great Britain Winter Concert 2017 Date: Sun 3 Dec Time: 6pm Tickets: ÂŁ18 - ÂŁ30 Celebrate the festive season with a performance from some of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most talented young musicians.

Programme items include the classics, Once in Royal Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s City, and Walking in the Air.

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Raymond Briggsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Father Christmas Dates: Thu 30 Nov â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sat 30 Dec Times: 10.30am, 1.30pm & 6pm Tickets: ÂŁ12.50

Upper Clifton Road, Sutton Coldfield, B73 6AB, townhallsuttoncoldfield.co.uk 0121 296 9543 Jack and the Beanstalk Dates: 13- 29 Dec Time: Various, see website Tickets: ÂŁ13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ÂŁ20

MATT HAIG: FATHER CHRISTMAS & ME SAT 25 NOV 10:30AM TOWN HALL

LOVE ACTUALLY WITH LIVE ORCHESTRA

MON 4 DEC 7:30PM TOWN HALL HALL SYMPHONY WED 6 DEC 7:30PM THE ICC HALL 1

STICK MAN

TUE 26 DEC 2017â&#x20AC;&#x201C;FRI 12 JAN 2018 VARIOUS TIMES SUN 7 JAN 2018 3PM RELAXED PERFORMANCE TOWN HALL

Blue Man Group IN THE ICC28HALL 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 Jan â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;18 Dates: Dec â&#x20AC;&#x2122;17

Time: Various Tickets: ÂŁ28 - ÂŁ58 Venue: ICC Hall 1 The global smash hit Blue Man Group promises an outrageous multi-sensory experience that has captivated more than 35 million people of all ages worldwide.

Town Hall, Birmingham

Victoria Square, Birmingham, B3 3DQ thsh.co.uk 0121 780 3333 Matt Haig: Father Christmas and Me Date: Sat 25 Nov Time: 10.30am Tickets: ÂŁ9.50 - ÂŁ22.50 Age: 7+ Join no.1 bestselling author Matt Haig for a Christmas adventure with the third book in his festive childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s series, Father Christmas and Me. An interactive family event, where he introduces the magical, madcap world of Elfhelm. Followed by a book signing.

BLUE MAN GROUP

THUR 28 DEC 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SAT 6 JAN 2018 VARIOUS TIMES THE ICC HALL 1

OUT & ABOUT Aston Hall

Trinity Road, Aston, Birmingham, B6 6JD, birminghammuseums.org.uk/aston Aston Alive! Christmases Past Date: Sat 16 Dec Times: 3pm - 8.30pm Admission: ÂŁ12; ÂŁ6 Pre-booking essential.

Why not join Aston House to reminisce over Christmases Past. Experience the sights and sounds of the festive season from the 17th century right through to the 1940s.

Please note: warm clothing and sensible footwear is advisable

Aston Tavern

Aston Hall Road, Birmingham, B6 7FF, astontavern.co.uk 0121 328 0095 Winter Wonderland Extravaganza Date: Sun 17 Dec Time: 11am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4pm Admission: Adults Free; Children ÂŁ5 Come and enjoy Aston Tavern in its full Christmassy glory. Santa will ride in on his sleigh to greet all the children and bring them gifts.

Just 15 minutes outside of Birmingham City Centre. Booking essential for Santa!

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3TR, birminghamchristmasgarden.co.uk 0844 873 7336 Christmas at the Botanical Gardens Date: 29 Nov â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 30 Dec Admission: See website After-dark festive fun for all the family: Scented Fire Garden; Tunnel of Light; Mistletoe Moment; Singing Trees; Santa and his elves; Seasonal food and gifts.

Birmingham Hippodrome

Hurst Street, Southside, B5 4TB, birminghamhippodrome.com Frost Fair Date: Sat 16 Dec Time: Drop in between 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6pm Entry: FREE The Hippodrome foyers will be buzzing with an indoor market, decoration and card making, seasonal food and drink, pop-up performances by local musicians, choirs and more! ***ALWAYS check the venueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website in case of changes to schedule. Thank you.

Freckle Productions present

TIDDLER & OTHER TERRIFIC TALES

FRI 30 MAR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; TUE 3 APR VARIOUS TIMES TOWN HALL

#PY PGĂĽDF 0121 780 3333 www.thsh.co.uk Funded by

18â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Town Hall renovation also funded by

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

Stick Man Dates: 26 Dec â&#x20AC;&#x2122;17 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 Jan â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;18 Times: Various Tickets: ÂŁ8.50 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 17.50 What starts off as a normal morning becomes quite the misadventure for poor old Stick Man! How will he ever get back to his family tree?

MORE

ONLINE familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.ukâ&#x20AC;&#x201A;

Have you followed us?

OUT & ABOUT Blakesley Hall

Blakesley Road, Birmingham, B25 8RN, 0121 348 8120, birminghammuseums.org.uk/ blakesley Christmas Magic Lantern Show Date: Sun 3 Dec Time: 12pm - 4pm Admission: £3; £2 Come along and watch a traditional Victorian Magic Lantern Show.

Show times at 12pm, 1pm & 3pm.

Pre booking is advised.

Christmas through the Ages Date: Sat 9 Dec Time: 10.30am – 3.30pm Admission: £10; £8; £6 Blakesley Hall will be dressed for Christmas through the ages. Meet some characters through time preparing for the yuletide festivities.

St Barnabas Hand bell ringers, Choir Divertimento and costumed Tudor musicians.

CBSO Centre

Berkley St, Birmingham, B1 2LF, bcmg.org.uk/whats-on 0121 616 2616 info@bcmg.org.uk BCMG Music Maze (8-11 years), and ZigZag Ensemble (12 – 16 years) Date: Sun 26 Nov Time: 10am – 2.30pm Admission: Suggested donation, £6 Children of all musical abilities, get the priceless experience of composing original pieces of music, working alongside the world class musicians of Birmingham Contemporary Music Group.

Pre-booking essential via website.

Hatton Adventure World

Dark Lane, Hatton, Warwick CV35 8XA hattonworld.com 01926 843411 Enchanted Kingdom Dates: 25 Nov – 24 Dec (mostly weekends only, check website) This Christmas come along and experience Hatton’s magical Kingdom.

Fantastic family entertainment all day.

Book online early for great savings.

Hoar Park, Shopping and Craft Village

B4114 Nr Ansley, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV10 0QU hoar-park.co.uk 024 7639 4433

@familiesbirminghammag mac Birmingham

Cannon Hill Park, Birmingham, B12 9QH, macbirmingham.co.uk 0121 446 3232 Create a Christmas Advent Calendar Sun 19 Nov, 10am-3pm, 6-11yrs + PG, £22 per adult & child Begin the countdown to Christmas and decorate your own Christmas tree advent calendar.

Christmas Craft workshop Sat 16 Dec, 10am-12pm; 1pm-3pm, 6-11yrs, £10 Create Christmas crackers and gift boxes.

Christmas Pottery Reindeers Sun 10 Dec, 10am-3pm, 6-11yrs, £23 Make a 3D Christmas pottery reindeer and learn about sculpture techniques.

Family Pottery Decorative Ceramics Thu 4 Jan, 10am-3pm, 6-11yrs+PG, £25 per adult & child A one day ceramics crash course for all the family.

Musical Theatre Fri 5 Jan, 10am-3pm, 6-11yrs, £18 Gain the core skills of dancing, acting, role play and singing

What’s On

@familiesbirm

Children’s Victorian Christmas Santa Trails Dates: 9, 10, 16 & 19 Dec Time: 10 am – 4.15pm Admission: £7; £6.50; £4 Pre-booking essential.

Join in the festive fun at Tamworth Castle.

Meet the Victorian household getting ready for Santa’s annual visit. Enter Santa’s grotto to receive a surprise gift.

Festival of Thinktank Family Activities Dates: 4 Nov – 11 Feb Time: 10am – 4pm Entry: £13.50; £9.75 The Festival of Thinktank is a celebration of innovation, science and technology linked to the fantastic exhibits and collections found inside the museum.

Victoria Square, Birmingham

ThinkTank

Location: Victoria Square and New St, Birmingham, birmingham.gov.uk/frankfurtmarket

Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham, B4 7XG, 0121 348 8000 birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market Dates: 16 Nov - 24 Dec Time: 10am - 9pm Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market returns to our city centre once again.

You will find a range of traditional goods and gifts. There’s also a wide choice of tempting food and drink. Pretzels, bratwursts, and schnitzels available.

NEC Birmingham

North Avenue, Marston Green, Birmingham, B40 1NT, thenec.co.uk

Competitions. Terms and conditions.

1. Only one entrant from the same email account will be accepted for each competition.

2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering.

3. Entries must be received by the closing date stated on each individual competition. Proof of entering cannot be taken as proof of receipt.

4. All decisions of Families Birmingham are final and no correspondence will be entered into.

5. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize.

6. Winners’ contact details will be supplied to the Promoter of each competition.

Baby to Toddler Show Dates: Sat 2 - Sun 3 Dec Tickets: £12 on the door Baby to Toddler, the shopping event for modern parents is at NEC Birmingham for the first time ever. Come and see some of the biggest and best baby and toddler brands designed for expectant and modern parents with children aged 0-4. babytotoddlerevents.co.uk

7. Families Birmingham is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition.

8. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions.

9. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and contacted via the email account provided by the entrant. If Families Birmingham does not obtain a response from the winner within 24 hours, we reserve the right to select another winner at random.

10. These competitions are restricted to residents of the West Midlands only.

30 NOVEMBER 2017 - 13 JANUARY 2018 Birmingham Repertory Theatre presents

Quote FAMILIESB when booking online for 45% discount!

Symphony Hall, Birmingham

Broad Street, Birmingham, B1 2EA, thsh.co.uk 0121 780 3333

FREE

Musical Picnic Dates: 8 & 11 Nov; 6 & 9 Dec Time: 10.30am Relax in a friendly space with your under7’s. Let them explore the music, dance, enjoy the story-telling and make new friends.

By Dodie Smith Adapted for the stage by Debbie Isitt Directed by Tessa Walker

Tamworth Castle

Victorian Evening Date: Thurs 7 Dec Time: from 6pm Hoar Park gets us into the Christmas spirit Victorian style. Brass ensemble, traditional carols around the tree, mince pies, hot chestnuts, mulled wine… and a very, very special guest.

Ho ho ho!

familiesonline.co.uk

Holloway, Ladybank, Tamworth B79 7NA, tamworthcastle.co.uk 01827 709581/618 Lanternory Dates: 18 Nov Family slots every half hour from 5.00pm7.30pm Admission: £7.50; £5.50 Pre-booking essential.

A brand-new storytelling concept for Tamworth Castle. A story is revealed in parts as visitors tour through the dark Castle lit by lantern light.

Experience the magical story live on stage BOX OFFICE

0121 236 4455

BOOK ONLINE BIRMINGHAM-REP.CO.UK/DALMATIANS

Registered in England 295910 | Charity No.223660

Families Birmingham, Solihull and Sutton Coldfield

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Awards 2016