FamiliesDorset_7_JulAug2019

RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and 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 Vicki King 07501 433 922

Issue 7 July/August 2019

IN THIS ISSUE Competitions Summer Days Out Brain Stimulating Activities Summer Holiday Clubs Guide familiesonline.co.uk

Photo Credit: Andrew Millard Photography

events@ highcliffecastle.co.uk | 014 25 278807 R othesay Drive, H ighcliffe, Dorset, B H 23 4 LE

WIN Family Tickets to Adventure Wonderland!

3 sets of Family Tickets on offer for this A full day’s fun at Brand multi award-winning theme park Dorset’s New: Adventure Wonderland has a great range of rides and attractions, live theatre shows and Wild Thing! an indoor adventure play centre.

Try interactive, reaction/ speed game, Jungle Zap Fun

number 1!

Meet resident characters such as Alice and the Mad Hatter, as well as visiting characters including Bing and Flop (31 July), Paw Patrol’s Skye & Marshall (14 August) and Peppa Pig (28 August).

Families can also pat and stroke the pint-sized ponies in the new Shetland World.

For more information visit www.adventurewonderland.co.uk TO ENTER

Email your answers to the following questions (together with your post code) to info@familiesmagazine.co.uk no later than 16 August 2019.

✸ Tell us in 50 words (or more) why you find Families magazine a useful tool for family life?

✸ How likely are you to respond to a piece of advertising you see in Families? a Very likely b Possibly c Unlikely

T&Cs apply. Tickets are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

See Adventure Wonderland website for full details.

2 Families Dorset

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Editor’s Welcome Find Families Dorset Magazine on: @FamiliesDorsetMag @FamDorsetMag Managing Editor - Keren Moseley editor@familiesdorset.co.uk | 07518 514012 Advertising - Claire Clarricoates Claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk | 07812 218331 Design - Matthew Craig mattcraigdesign.co.uk Distribution - We distribute throughout Dorset including Bournemouth, Blandford Forum, Broadstone, Bridport, Christchurch, Dorchester, Ferndown, New Milton, Poole, Ringwood, Swanage, Verwood, Wareham, Wimborne and more.

Summer’s here and we have plenty to whet your appetite including advice to keep your children engaged and occupied over the summer.

We show you the stress-free way to put your kids in charge of planning family days out, and our comprehensive guide to what’s on around Dorset during July and August will give you plenty of ideas and inspiration.

Plus, don’t miss our fantastic reader competitions and great moneysaving offers from Highcliffe Castle & Kingston Maurward Animal Park & Gardens.

If you have any news or events that you’d like to share with our readers - or if you’d like your business to reach parents and families in our next ‘Back to School’ issue – do drop me a line. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook for up-to-date information, competitions & more...

Have a great summer!

Editor

Our magazines are produced from well-managed forests and/or recycled materials.

© Families Dorset Magazine July/August 2019.

Families Dorset 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 Dorset are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Dorset. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Dorset, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

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Would you like to advertise your business to over 40,000 parents in our Sep/Oct issue?

BOOK TODAY

Next Issue: Sep/Oct 2019 Education, Back to School, Classes & Clubs, October Half Term, Halloween Activities & more!

Booking Deadline: 2 August Copy Deadline: 8 August

Families Dorset 3

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Talk, Sing & Play to Build Brains Almost two thirds of parents are unaware that back and forth interaction with their child from birth can help their babies’ social, emotional and cognitive development.

A survey of more than 2,000 parents and expectant parents by the NSPCC found that 62% were unaware that moments playing, singing or telling stories can be brainbuilding ones. NSPCC research has found some parents struggle with ideas about how to interact with their young child beyond eye contact and cuddling, especially in the early months when they do not receive obvious feedback from their babies.

In response, the charity is launching a campaign, ‘Look, Say, Sing, Play,’ to encourage new parents to use everyday scenarios to have more two-way interactions with their babies. Going to the shops, having a bath, going to bed – whatever you and your baby are doing can be turned into a back-and-forth.

Parents can sign up to get weekly brain building tips that are fun and age appropriate. More info: www.nspcc.org.uk

Discover Your Confidence at Stagecoach Wimborne!

This September, Stagecoach Performing Arts are opening their doors in Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wimborne, ready to inspire the next generation of budding young performers!

Stagecoach will offer weekly classes of Singing, Dancing and Drama on a Tuesday evening to students aged 4-16 years, with an expert team of teachers.

Stagecoach have been educating children for 30 years, and its high standards, quality of teaching and student inclusion are the upmost priority. Stagecoach instill creative courage for life, giving students have the chance to make friends and have fun in an educational and stimulating atmosphere.

Stagecoach Wimborne offer free visiting professional workshops and each term, parents are invited to watch their children in action; either a performance in a theatre, a demonstration of classwork or an event in the local community.

Contact Emily at wimborne@ stagecoach.co.uk or phone 01202 238810 to join our FREE Discovery Workshop and a FREE Two Week Trial!

FREE

Discovery Workshop & 2 Week Trial

Space Chase!

Summer Reading Challenge 2019 The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday.

Children’s reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don’t have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure. This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ - an outof-this-world adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.

The Challenge will launch in libraries on Saturday 13 July 2019 in England and Wales.

For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk

Cycle Safety Courses for Kids Bikeability is about giving people the skills to cycle on today’s roads.

and understanding of the road and traffic environment.

Level 1 & 2 Course: Level 1 teaches trainees to control and master a bike in a playground area, developing basic cycle control skills.

Level 2 equips trainees with the skills to cycle on local roads, developing safe cycling skills

Level 3 Course: For children who have completed Level 2 and are an experienced, confident cyclist. It provides the skills to tackle a wide variety of traffic conditions, many different road layouts and challenging traffic scenarios.

Find out more about BCP Council’s holiday courses, visit bcpcouncil.gov.uk/ bikeability or call 01202 454636 to book.

Safety Wristbands Easy2name’s new safety wristbands will help you find your child if they wander off on a day out and can also be used as medical alert.

Contact details such as a mobile number and important medical information can be written on the outside. Or you can use the internationally

4 Families Dorset

recognised term ‘ICE’ (In Case of Emergency) on your wristband.

These silicone wristbands are waterproof and tear proof and are ideal for outings, school trips and family holidays.

Suggested children’s sizes are 14cm for ages 2-4, 16cm for ages 5-8 and 18cm for ages 9 and above.

OL! BACK TO SCHO STICK ON IRON ON SEW ON SEW NO IRON - NO GS BA PENCILS &

You name it we label it!

Call us on: 01635 298326

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10 BrainStimulating Activities to Keep Learning Alive this Summer Over the summer holidays, children need to reboot and relax but they can lose 25% of what they’ve earned during the long break. Claire Winter looks at how to keep their learning alive this summer.

Have a Board Game Tournament Tactical board games like Chess and Backgammon give the brain a workout. Scrabble helps with vocabulary and Monopoly boosts Maths and money management skills.

Games like Trivial Pursuit are great for learning general knowledge and also teach strategy, following instructions, learning how to lose and communication.

Learn to Play a Musical Instrument Playing a musical instrument helps engage the brain, and the summer is a perfect time to learn something new as your child can practice daily. Learning a musical instrument can also help with learning languages too.

Try a New Sport Learning a new sport strengthens the body and the brain. Check out our great guide to summer clubs on pages 6-7 and you’ll find local opportunities for your child to try new sports, which provide essential life skills like self-confidence, teamwork and strategic thinking.

Make Reading Fun

Learn to Cook

The Summer Reading Challenge, which inspires kids to read six books in exchange for rewards, is an excellent place to start exercising their brain and spark their imagination. Sign up at your local library or visit www. summerreadingchallenge.org. uk. Reading kids’ comics and newspapers like the Week Junior or First News, might also appeal. You could reward reading with screen time or make bedtime a dedicated reading time.

Get your child to find some fun recipes to make for the family.

Maybe design a menu for a picnic or an evening meal. Let them be in charge of buying the ingredients too. Weighing, measuring and following instructions all keep the brain active.

Keep a Summer Journal Encourage your child to document the summer with pictures and writing, perhaps choosing a theme. If they like computers, you could get them to create a digital journal with written entries, video diaries, and photos.

Write Stories and Post Cards Documenting the summer on Instagram with pictures and captions can get a child who loves social media platforms involved. Getting younger children to write and send postcards when you are on holiday will boost their writing skills.

The key to surviving the summer holidays is to mix it up. Book the kids into a summer clubs, and plan some exciting days out and fun at home to avoid them suffering the dreaded brain drain.

Get Gardening Research some insect and butterfly-friendly plants and flowers to plant in the garden or grow some fruit or veg from seed. It’s a great introduction to science, and you could also tie it in with a visit to a Botanical garden.

Learn to Code Coding is great for techie kids. Free websites which teach your kids the basics of coding, such as Scratch (www.scratch.mit.edu) and Alice (www.alice.org), let children earn to programme, tell stories and animate!

Try Puzzles Number puzzles and Sudoku are great for improving the grey matter. Older children may enjoy a fun day at an escape room where they have to solve clues to get out.

WIN a Safety Wristband!

We’re delighted to offer five lucky readers the chance to win a safety wristband for their child, brought to you

by Easy2Name.

To enter, like our Facebook page, Families Dorset Magazine, click on our Easy2Name competition post and on that post, tell us what material the safety wristbands are made from. Entries close Sunday, 18th August 2019.

Good luck!

T&Cs apply. No cash or prize alternative.

Full details online.

WIN a family ticket* to the RussellCotes Art Gallery and Museum A visit to the Russell-Cotes this summer is truly magical! There’ll be fairies to find in the historic house and garden and lots of family activities to take part in, including crafts, trails, competitions and garden games. In celebration, Families Dorset is offering you the chance to win a Family Admission Ticket* to the Russell-Cotes.

To enter, email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk with your full name and address and your answer to this question: What is the theme of RussellCotes’ summer holiday activities? A) Unicorns B) Fairies C) Pirates Entries close midnight, Friday 2nd August. Good luck!

T&Cs apply. No cash or prize alternative. *For up to 2 adults and 3 children.

familiesonline.co.uk

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Super Swimmers Summer Splash Living in Dorset, we have easy access to a stunning coastline. Playing at the beach, at a water park, or in a pool is a real treat but it can have its dangers too, so the importance of swimming lessons for water safety can’t be overstated.

That’s why Super Swimmer’s Summer Splash Intensive Swim Lessons, led by experienced STA qualified instructors, will help your children can gain new-found confidence and ability in the water, and give their existing swim skills an extra boost. You’ll be amazed at the difference these lessons make, for just £40 per child for the week.

For more information or to book, visit superswimmer.co.uk

HELP

WITH

SIGN UP AT: WWW.BIGBANG-SCIENCE.COM/HOLIDAYCLUBS WEDNESDAY 24TH to FRIDAY 26TH JULY, 9AM-1PM AGES 5 to 11 WELCOME, £20 PER CHILD/DAY COURTHILL INFANT SCHOOL, BH14 9HL

Go Green with Big Bang Science Let Big Bang Science inspire your children to help create a cleaner, safer and less polluted planet this summer.

Over 3 mornings from 24–26 July, they’ll learn how to make cleaning products that don’t impact our environment and think about ways in which we can reuse packaging and tackle the ‘plastic crisis’. They’ll also consider the importance of our wildlife and open spaces and look at how to increase our bee populations.

Book now at www.bigbang-science.com

Beat the Summer Boredom with 115 Holiday Club The Ofsted registered 115 Holiday club in Bournemouth ensures your children enjoy every holiday.

With our exciting day trips and fun daily activities, we aim to ensure your child loves it when you are at work! Our age range is 4-11 but we also provide an 11+ club. Under 11’s follow a more structured age appropriate play environment, but for our 11+ clubbers, we believe in providing a safe environment for our kids to develop their independence and grow with confidence in the world around them.

Tel 01202 331602 or visit www.115club.co.uk

Sizzling Summer Action at Purbeck Sports Centre Purbeck Sports Centre in Wareham has a sizzling summer activities programme. There is so much on offer, from archery, dance, football camps, den building and more. With something for everyone, your children will be kept amused and busy all summer long!

The Centre also has a fantastic 25m indoor, heated swimming pool with inflatable fun sessions, comprehensive indoor and outdoor sports facilities, Virtual fitness classes, fully equipped Gym and an exciting, ever changing timetable of classes, activities and courses.

Get more out of life with Purbeck Sports Centre.

Visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/purbecksportscentre today.

6 Families Dorset

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Summ e r Spla s h

MULTI-ACTIVITY HOLIDAY CLUB FOR KIDS

S u pe r Sw i mmers

Only

Open Monday - Friday during school holidays

£40!

Mudeford Wood Community Centre, Christchurch BH23 4TR Durlston Court School, New Milton BH25 7AQ*

Mon 29 July – Fri 2 August 10.30am – 12pm

5-12 years

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Arts & Crafts | Beach Activities Football | French/Spanish | Martial Arts Performance Arts | Street Dance | Tennis Woodland Adventures | Yoga and more...

St Michael’s Middle School, Colehill BH21 7AN

Full Day: £28 (9am-4pm) | £32* (9am-5pm) Half Day: £18 (9am-12pm or 1pm-4pm) Early Bird: £7 (Extra 30mins)

For more information or to book, contact Emma

07717 722 720 | superswimmers@hotmail.com

Visit pouncingpanthers.com for more info, dates and timetable or call 01202 250 617.

www.superswimmer.co.uk

*Durlston

Summer Holiday Club

BUSINESS OWNERS! Would you like to advertise your business to our 40,000+ readers?

Let the Fun Begin!

22 July – 16 August, Weekdays from 8am – 5.45pm Moordown St Johns School, Bournemouth BH9 2SA Book now!

115club.co.uk Fun activities & day trips for Under 8s, Over 8s, 11 Plus | From £24

BOOK TODAY Call 07518 514012 or email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk

!

EE

FR

Saturday and School Holiday Cycling Courses Three Bikeability levels: Level 1 & Level 2 (10 to 15 year olds) Level 3 (11+ up to further & higher education)

Stagecoach Wimborne

DISCOVERY DAY For children who live or go to school in Bournemouth. Sessions take place at King’s Park Cycle Centre with our fully qualified instructors.

T. 01202 454636 E. road.safety@bcpcouncil.gov.uk Dates and booking details: bcpcouncil.gov.uk/bikeability

familiesonline.co.uk

Explore the world of performing arts through our free 20-minute taster sessions in singing, dancing and acting for 4 - 18 year-olds.

Date:

10th September

Time:

Early Stages: 4-5.30pm Main Stages: 4.30-6.30pm Venue: Queen Elizabeth's School, Wimborne, BH21 4DT stagecoach.co.uk/Wimborne 01202 238810

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Families Dorset 7

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Go to New Heights This Summer Looking for something different for the kids to do this summer? ALTITUDE High Ropes Adventure is a high ropes course located in Littledown Park. Set across two heights, the kids can tackle the low and high ropes, zip wire, climbing wall and PowerFan Descender.

The low ropes is suitable from 5 years old, and has nine exciting elements to tackle at 5 metres above the ground, including the cargo net and log bridge.

The next level up is the high ropes, suitable from 8 years, or 5 years when accompanied by an adult. Going further up at 10 metres – you are set to conquer another 12 testing elements.

Complete the course by reaching the top of the climbing wall, zipping across the lake on the zip wire and braving the vertical jump – the PowerFan Descender.

Find out more and book at www.bhliveactive.org.uk/altitude

Falconry Flying Experience Days & More at Libertys Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre in Ringwood is home to a large collection of birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, owls and vultures. Observe these magnificent birds flying free or treat yourself to a special Flying Experience Day and experience the thrill of falconry for yourself.

You can also get up close and personal with the snakes, lizards and spiders during various displays in the day. At the rescue centre, come and see wild birds of prey on their road to recovery and release back to the wild.

Open daily March - October 10am–5pm.

For more information visit www.libertysfalconry.co.uk

It’s a Miniature Model World Family Fun at Verwood Hub Whether you enjoy live concerts or shows, watching the latest blockbusters, want to improve your health and fitness or simply need a place to meet and have a coffee, the Verwood Hub, Community and Leisure is the place to be.

The Verwood Hub Community and Leisure comprises three sites; The Verwood Hub, Potterne Park and Emmanuel Sports Hall all offer a host of facilities, activities and events.

The Verwood Hub is a hugely versatile facility which includes the fantastic Merryfield Theatre, featuring a brand-new, digital surround-sound cinema showing some of the latest releases. Make the most of a state-of-the-art Technogym gym, 3G football pitches, sports hall, a licensed bar and free Wi-Fi! With an exciting and varied calendar of events including shows, theatre, cinema, concerts and cabaret evenings, there’s something for the entire family to enjoy!

Find out more at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/verwood-hub

8 Families Dorset

A new Crazy Golf course heads a fantastic line-up events and attractions at Wimborne Model Town this summer.

Take a stroll around the charming streets and shops of the original 1950s miniature buildings with a free quiz guide, see Thomas and drive the trains on the model railway. Inside, see the

illuminated dolls’ houses and 1950s school and shop area. A magnet for your little ones, Wendy Street provides free family entertainment during the holidays. Unwind with a cream tea or lunch (kids menus available) in the Tea Room or grab a souvenir from our gift shop.

Visit www.wimborne-modeltown.com

Create a Lifetime of Memories at the New Forest & Hampshire County Show The New Forest Show is a three-day celebration of Farming, Food and Fun which is rated among the top agricultural shows in the country. From food and flowers, music and main ring attractions to cooking, crafts and county pursuits, you’re guaranteed to find something different in every corner of the showground.

Don’t miss the busy timetable of main ring attractions filling the main arenas including the breath-taking Heavy Horse Musical Drive and the return of the lively Pony Club Mounted Games. New for 2019, the Canine Arena has an action-packed line-up of entertaining displays and activities featuring our four-legged friends.

Also, back by popular demand is the Fun

Kitchen offering free cooking workshops for children every day at the Show. Visit our website to book and for details.

This year we are delighted to announce all children aged 5-15 enter the Show for just £1.

Children under 5 enter for free.

Join us on 30th, 31st July & 1st August in the heart of the New Forest National Park. Buy your tickets online before 23rd July to receive a 15% discount.

Visit www.newforestshow.co.uk

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Back to Nature at Kingston Maurward

Feel The Magic of Vintage Train Travel Swanage Railway is the picture postcard branch line to the seaside.

Steam trains run for six miles, weaving their way through the beautiful Purbeck countryside from Norden, home of the Purbeck Mineral Mining Museum, past the magnificent ruins of Corfe Castle to the sandy beach of Swanage, the eastern gateway to the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage site.

Swanage Railway offers an intensive heritage steam train service with departures up to every 40 minutes in the summer season. Special events, including steam galas in the Spring and Autumn, a diesel gala in May and our acclaimed Santa Specials in December, run each year.

Mighty Claws Birthday Parties Rampage around a Jurassic landscape, filled with moving dinosaurs, thundering waterfalls and steaming volcanoes. Our crazy golf course turns a birthday party into an unforgettable adventure. Fiercely entertaining for everyone from little raptors to ancient fossils.

Enjoy a RAW-some adventure with your friends and family then once you have battled the mighty dinosaurs – come on in to The Kitchen Club restaurant for some tasty party food and unlimited squash. Our Kids Menu includes freshly made pizzas in our wood burning pizza oven, chicken goujons, chips and peas to name but a few.

Summer holidays aren’t complete without a trip to this beloved, family-friendly Animal Park in the heart of Dorset.

With lots of animals to meet including peacocks, birds of prey and wallabies; you can even feed the goats and sheep, enjoy a picnic, or visit the park café. Take a walk along the lakeside nature trail and explore the stunning gardens and parkland.

Kids’ activities run throughout all school holidays with discounts for locals – it’s the perfect day out! Plus, look out for a new indoor play barn coming soon!

For more information visit www.visitkm.co.uk or call 01305 215003.

Your party will also include party invites and the birthday child will receive a fantastic Mighty Claws book from our team.

Mighty Claws Kids Parties start at £12.95pp – for more information please contact a member of our team on 01202 436 436 or email Bournemouth@mightyadventures.com.

Summer at Monkey World Summer at Monkey World means the primates are enjoying being out & about in their large outdoor enclosures - important for all but especially for the youngsters!

As Monkey World is the official European Crèche for orphaned orangutans, during the warmer months the orphaned infants love to explore their outdoor spaces! Bulu Mata, 4, is getting bigger and braver and is spending more time wrestle playing with his older adoptive brothers, Silvestre and Jin whilst infant ladies Rieke, 4, and Mimi, 3, are pros at climbing high to find the tasty breakfast treats the hidden around the enclosures.

Visitors can see Bulu, Rieke and Mimi at Monkey World every day apart from Christmas day. The park is home to over 260 rescued and endangered primates, rehabilitated to live in family groups of their own kind.

Join the adoption scheme & gain an annual pass to the park! More details at www.monkeyworld.org

Be King of the Castle This Summer Highcliffe Castle is the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy this summer. A jam-packed event schedule promises fun for everyone, with outdoor theatre to puppet shows, free family days and car displays. You can experience interactive activities, dressing up and even the chance to build your very own castle.

Event highlights include a performance of David Walliams ‘Gangsta Granny’ on Monday 26th August

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at 5pm on the castle lawns. The Garlic Theatre Company’s ‘3 Little Pigs,’ takes place on Sunday 4th August, brilliantly told with puppets and live music.

Performances are at 11am and 1.30pm. Bring a picnic and something to sit on, sit back and relax!

Situated in beautiful cliff-top grounds, this Grade 1 listed castle and its newly restored East Wing are ready to welcome you. For ticket information, visit www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

*CAN BE USED FOR A MAXIMUM OF 4 TICKETS AND UP TO TWO EVENTS IF BOOKED AT THE SAME TIME. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT WWW.HIGHCLIFFECASTLE.CO.UK REF: DOR-FAM-070819

EXP: 31.08.2019

Families Dorset 9

Summer Days Out

Put the Kids in Charge!

There has been a lot in the press in recent months about ‘helicopter parenting’ and the fact that many parents are doing too much for their children. So how about breaking the cycle and putting the kids in charge for the day? Claire Winter makes some suggestions.

Sometimes when we are busy we can over schedule our child’s school holidays with clubs, activities, play dates and days out. So why not counteract this by taking a step back and putting the kids in charge?

Children love independence so let each child in your family set the agenda for one day. Give them a budget and encourage them to start planning!

Parent coach Susi Ramroop (www.susieramroop.com) says it’s important to give our kids more independence. “In an attempt to please our kids and keep them busy, we fill their schedules with activities, and run the risk of overwhelming them. Teaching them from a young age to choose a day out based on what brings the most joy exercises their decision-making muscles, and sets them up for a better future – making choices is the foundation for managing time and money effectively.”

Follow these easy steps: Put One Of Your Children in Charge

It May Be Mayhem!

Set the agenda. Let your child know that he or she has to plan an activity that is out of the house for the day, as well as how to get there and back and where and what the family is going to eat for each meal.

Remember things may not all go to plan but you can have fun, relax and enjoy not being in charge.

Sometimes kids need to learn from experience that sweets for every meal is not a good idea!

Set a Budget

Keep It Up

Give your child a set cash allocation for the day.

They then need to decide what to spend the budget on. The budget needs to cover the day out or activity as well as food. They might decide to buy food for a picnic, treats or eat out. Assist them to actually buy any food required.

If the experiment went well, why not introduce it as a regular feature in family life? You could have a fun day out ideas jar that everyone contributes to. The whole family can throw their ideas into a hat or jar and you pull one out every weekend.

Get Them Researching Get them to research the activity or day out they want as a starting point. Give them some tips on researching travel costs. You can assist them with this if they ask for help but try not to take over.

Advise them to pre-buy the tickets or train fares online. Depending on their age they may be able to enter credit or debit card information and manage booking systems. If not, give them some help with this. If they can stretch the budget or find free things to do, they get extra brownie points!

Let Them Navigate Get them to look up the location on Googlemaps or Sat Nav if you are driving or on a map if you are walking or using public transport. They can ask you for help if necessary. Ask them to direct you to your destination. If they make mistakes, it’s all part of the learning.

Canford Summer Fair Bring the family along to Canford Summer Fair from 17 – 18 August in the spectacular grounds of Canford School.

You’ll find over 100 fantastic stands selling the best crafts, gourmet food produce, hot street food, beautiful plants, garden furniture and accessories that our amazing region has to offer. With children’s entertainment areas, falconry displays and live music too, it’s the perfect place to spend a summers day. Entry is £3 for adults and under 16s free.

Susi says, “My kids love having a Mexican, Indian or Pizza night. They plan the menu and ingredients required, then we do the shopping and cooking together. When the food is ready, we watch a film. An activity doesn’t have to be expensive or complicate. We often forget that what children actually really want is to be spending time with us, not expensive days our or material things.”

Helping our children develop independence is vital. We need to give them the tools to become responsible, emotionally-intelligent adults who are capable of making their own decisions. It’s not always easy to let go but when you do it’s great to see their smiles of satisfaction when they are allowed to do things their way!

Please share your kids in charge days out with us on Twitter and Facebook we would love to know how you get on! Use the hashtag #familieskidsincharge.

WIN a family ticket to the New Forest & Hampshire County Show!

Families Dorset has teamed up with the New Forest Show to offer one lucky reader a family day ticket for 2 adults & 2 children to this year’s event, which takes place from 30th July to 1st August.

To enter the competition, email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk with your full name & address and tell us what new attraction has been added to this year’s show. Or like our Facebook page, Families Dorset Magazine, click on the pinned post at the top of the page and tell us the answer on that post. Good luck!

Entries T&Cs apply. No cash or prize alternative. Full details on our website.

close

21st July

10 Families Dorset familiesonline.co.uk

Summer What’s On Your essential summer guide for July & August.

Throughout July & August

7 July

13 July

15 July – 8 September

Art Detectives Exhibition Trail

Broadstone Fun Day

Upton Carnival 2019

Are We There Yet?

Poole Museum, Poole BH15 1BW

Broadstone Recreation Park, Broadstone BH18 8EA

Upton Recreation Ground, Poole BH16 5NG

Haynes International Motor Museum, Yeovil BA22 7LH

Discover and explore our Henry Lamb exhibition with this free, fun detective trail. Look for clues in the paintings, solve puzzles and draw your own sketches!

10am–5pm. Free activity.

Come along & enjoy stalls, dog show, entertainment arena, bouncy castles, food and fun. Bring a picnic and enjoy the atmosphere. 12–4pm.

Follow the parade from Factory Road at 1pm and enjoy a fayre ground, food & drink stalls, activities, live music, performances for a family fun day. 12–6pm.

Witchampton Village Fete

Jurassic Rampage

Riverside Regatta

Witchampton BH21 5AG

Mighty Adventures, Christchurch BH7 7ES

Dreamboats, Wimborne Minster BH21 1QU

An awesome choice of fun packed experiences. Explore a Jurassic landscape, filled with moving dinosaurs, thundering waterfalls and steaming volcanoes. Mon to Sat 9am–9.30pm, Sun 9am–7.30pm.

Adult £9.50, under 12s £6.50, family £28.

Come on down and enjoy a day at the riverside & take part in a row boat race.

Plus, live entertainment, refreshments, bouncy castle and face painting. 12–5pm.

Team of 3 per boat for £5.

A quintessentially English experience in one of the most beautiful villages in Dorset. Events & activities include the dog show, children’s games, tug of war, Maypole dancing and professional karate demonstrations. 1.30–5pm. £2. Under 12s free.

Summer at Monkey World!

Monkey World, Wareham BH20 6HH Monkey World is open for longer until 6pm every day in July and August. Free trail sheet available for every visiting child and the activity centre is open for kids too.

10am–6pm. Adult £14, child £10, under 3s free.

Up Close & Personal with Birds of Prey Liberty’s Owl, Raptor & Reptile Centre, Ringwood BH24 3DZ A fun, thrilling and educational family day. Liberty’s houses a large collection of birds of prey and an indoor reptile house.

Observe these magnificent birds flying free or experience falconry first-hand with our Flying Experience Days. 10am–5pm.

6 July Dorchester Children’s Carnival The Prince of Wales First School, Dorchester DT1 2HH

7, 14, 21, 28 July, 4, 11, 18, 25 August, 1 September Laser Quest Kids Club

Yarrells Summer School

Laser Quest, Bournemouth, BH1 2LZ

Yarrells School & Nursery, Poole BH16 5EU

Let your kids burn off some excess energy with up to 2 hours of safe, non-stop laser fun. Try new games like Medic & Terminator. 10am–12pm. £11 per player.

Happy memories will be made for action-packed days. Activities include arts & crafts, cooking, ICT, dance, archery, music, forest school, orienteering, sport, off-site adventures, science, performing arts, swimming and laser quest. Age 3–16. £130 week.

9 -10 July Child Seat Check Event The Ark, Poole BH15 2SF Drop in for a free child car seat check from the experts. Make sure your child seat is correct for both your child and the vehicle and speak to experts about your seats and the next stage of seats for your child. 10am–3pm. Free.

9, 16, 23, 30 July, 6, 13, 20, 27 August Nature Tots

The ‘Celebration of Uniforms’ themed carnival is at the school’s Summer Fayre from 11am–4pm with food, refreshments, games, activities and a host of entertainment. The procession sets off at 11am from the Buttermarket reaching the school at around 11.40am.

Kingfisher Barn Centre, Bournemouth BH9 3NZ

Summer Fayre & Fun Dog Show

Summer Live

Sunninghill Prep School, Dorchester DT1 1EB A fun afternoon of live music, refreshments, stalls and activities. Why not bring your puppy or dog along and enter them into the dog show?

12.30–4.30pm. Free entry.

Give your little ones a love of nature with activities tailored for children 2–4 years old. 10.30–11.30am. Donation £2.50.

12 July – 26 August The Square, Bournemouth BH2 6ED A free event for all ages with live music every day, or visit the huts and watch the artists in action as they paint, draw and create. Plus, free kids’ entertainment shows over the last 2 weeks of August.

DON’T FORGET to check with the venue before setting off just in case anything’s changed since we went to print. And remember to tell them you heard it first in Families Dorset magazine!

familiesonline.co.uk

15–19 July, 22–26 July

15-19, 24-26, 30 July, 1-2, 6, 8-9, 13, 15-16, 20, 22-23 August Pouncing Panthers Holiday Club Durlston Court School, New Milton BH25 7AQ Children can try a multitude of sports, including tennis, football, hockey and dodge ball, martial arts and street dance, and try your hand at yoga, arts and crafts and oral Spanish and French. With plenty of adventures to be had, your child will fill their summer with treasured memories and gain new confidence. Age 5–12 years.

9am–5pm. £32. pouncingpanthers.com

Pack a picnic and go on a nostalgic journey of summer holiday makers past. Charting the 1930s fashion for motor touring to the day-trippers of the 1960s. 9.30am–5.30pm.

From £8pp.

20–21 July Medieval Games Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ Play different games you find as you explore the castle ruins. 10am–5pm.

Normal admission charges apply.

Victorian Family Weekend Nothe Fort, Weymouth DT4 8UF A living history group will be ‘surviving’ in the tunnels and cellars underground, and other areas of the fort, re-enacting the lives of lower classes in Victorian England.

10.30am–5.30pm. Adult £8, child £2, family £18, under 5s free.

20, 24, 27 July Aladdin (PG) Verwood Hub, Verwood BH31 7QE Hop on a carpet and fly to another Arabian night in ‘Aladdin’, a live-action remake of the beloved classic. Showtime 11am & 3pm 20 July, 24 July 2pm & 11am 27 July. £6.

20 July – 1 September Summer Holiday at the Tank Museum The Tank Museum, Bovington BH20 6JG Explore the Tank Museum and experience the biggest day out in history. See tanks in action displays at 1pm daily from 22 July.

Kids can let off steam in the outdoor play area and new inside soft play area. Family £36. Under 5s free.

8 July – 24 August

International Summer Camp Moyles Court School, Ringwood BH24 3NF Make friends from all over the world and join in with a wide range of fun sports and activities.

Our affordable childcare provides children with a unique experience to learn about different cultures, forge international friendships and enjoy exciting excursions to places like London, Oxford and Bath. Best of all, the camp is open 7 days a week and until 10pm!

For children aged 8–14 years (Years 4–9). £25* day from 9am–5pm. *£10/hour from 5–10pm, £5 per meal (optional) & city excursion charges apply.

Visit moylescourt.co.uk/summer-school

Families Dorset 11

21 July 3km Superhero Adventure Run

22, 24, 29, 31 July, 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 18 August

23 July – 28 August

24–26 July

Pirates of the Pavilion

Save The Planet with Big Bang Science

Peter Grant Way, Ferndown BH22 9EN

Mini Gym

Weymouth Pavilion, Weymouth DT4 8ED

Courthill Infant School, Poole BH14 9HL

Bounce, squeeze, slip and slide your way along the inflatable course in your most spectacular superhero suit, whilst raising money for Wessex Cancer Trust. Prizes for the best fancy dress plus food, music and fun activities. 10am–3pm. Adult £19, child £12, family £45.

Littledown Leisure Centre, Bournemouth BH7 7DX

Potty pirates find themselves among the Pyramids in the mysterious landscape of Egypt as they search for the lost treasure of Pharaoh Rocher! A hilarious family summer pantomime you’d be sharkbait to miss! Family £56.

Say goodbye to plastics and embrace your green space with Big Bang Science Holiday Club! Be inspired with a fun packed program of hand-on experiments.

A great mix of demonstrations, indoor and outdoor experiments guaranteed to inspire and engage! Age 5–11. 9am–1pm.

Child £20/day. www.bigbang-science. com/holidayclubs

Pound Puppy Animal Rescue Annual Dog Show

Mini Gym activities will help your child to develop their agility, balance, strength, speed and co-ordination and increase their self-confidence. From 15 months– 4 years. Check venue for session times.

22 July – 16 August

Norden Farm, Corfe Castle BH20 5DS

The 115 Summer Holiday Club

A great family day out to celebrate your pooches. With 13 fun dog classes, face painting, balloon modelling, stalls, and more. Dog show starts at 11am. 10am– 4pm. Entrance £2 per family. £2 per class.

Moordown St Johns Primary School, Bournemouth BH9 2SA

Wareham Carnival North Street, Wareham BH20 4AQ Enjoy the spectacular Wareham Carnival procession through the town to the recreation ground where the fun continues. From 1pm.

21 July – 1 September Treasure Hunt Challenge Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath BH24 2ET A fun treasure hunt learning about the animals that live at Moors Valley. All ages welcome. 9am–5pm. £2.

22-23, 29, 31 July, 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21 August Pouncing Panthers Holiday Club Mudeford Wood Community Centre, Christchurch BH23 4TR Children can try a multitude of sports, including tennis, football, hockey and dodge ball, martial arts and street dance, or try your hand at yoga, arts and crafts and oral Spanish and French. With plenty of adventures to be had, your child will gain treasured memories and new confidence.

Age 5–12 years. 9am–4pm. £28 Day, £18 Half Day. pouncingpanthers.com

24 July Peculiar Pond Life Lorton Meadows Centre, Weymouth DT3 5QH

At the 115 Club, your children are in for a treat. With exciting day trips and fun daily activities, your child will love it when you are at work! Our age range is 4-11 but we also provide an 11+ club. We can even provide breakfast at no extra charge.

8am–5.45pm. £24 day. £27 for trip days.

115club.co.uk

22 July – 1 September Ocean Wonders Children’s Trail Durlston Country Park, Swanage BH19 2JL Dive in and explore our wonders of the ocean kid’s trail. See what you can discover and win a prize. £3.

23, 25, 30 July, 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29 August

Acro Dance Workshop

Have a go at pond dipping and discover the amazing underwater world of diving beetles, newts & nymphs. 10.30am– 12.30pm. £4.

Littledown Leisure Centre, Bournemouth BH7 7DX

24-25, 31 July, 1, 7–8, 14–15, 21–22, 28–29 August Bounce, Bend & Boogie Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre, Christchurch BH23 1HW A great day to enjoy gymnastic activities, trampolining, swimming and dancing. It’s enough to tire even the liveliest children!

Age 5–13. 8.45am–4pm. £19.50.

24-25 July, 5-8, 12–15, 20–22, 26-28 August

Littledown Leisure Centre, Bournemouth BH7 7DX Action packed mornings to wear the kids out! Each session has a core activity such as Altitude High Ropes, trampolining, multi-sports, gymnastics, scavenger hunt, summer arts & crafts or water fun & games, plus lots of fun games on and off our inflatable bouncer. Age 5–11. 9.15am– 12pm. Check venue for activities by date. £8.

Help your child develop valuable emotional intelligence skills. Through fun, interactive activities, they’ll learn how to cope with fears, emotions and anxieties, improve communication and increase self-confidence and belief. Age 5–12.

10am–3.30pm. Venues & dates vary. £25. universalmindfulness.co.uk

WANT TO PROMOTE YOUR LOCAL EVENT IN THE NEXT ISSUE? email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk

Crazy Golf Weekly Entertainment in High Season Wendy Street Play Area Tea Room & Shop Illuminated Dolls’ Houses Push Button Model Railway Diorama NGS Listed Gardens Open Daily 10am – 5pm to 3 November

www.wimborne-modeltown.com

Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ Travel back in time to the 12th century and learn some of the skills you’d need to become a noble knight. 10am–5pm.

Normal admission charges apply.

Super Summer Dinosaur Hunt Dinosaur Museum, Dorchester DT1 1EW Explore the museum to seek out the answers to the dinosaur mystery – dino fun for kids. 9.30am–5pm.

24 July – 1 September Summer at Kingston Maurward Kingston Maurward Animal Park & Gardens, Dorchester DT2 8PX Enjoy a daily schedule of activities to get up close with our friendly animals! Get up close to alpacas, fluffy rabbits and meet all our farmyard friends – cows, pigs, chickens, ducks and more. 10am–5pm. Adult £7, child 4-16 £5, child age 3 £2, under 2s free.

Great Value Family Fares

A V i n t a g e M i n i a t u re Wo r l d

VISIT 1950s WIMBORNE IN 1/10th SCALE

Medieval Village

24 July – 30 August

Marvellous Mindful Me Summer Youth Centre, Dorchester DT1 1NJ St Georges Church, Poole BH15 3EU Embassy Rooms, Bournemouth BH9 1PT Verwood Youth Centre, Verwood BH31 6JF

Holiday Clubs

A fusion of dance and gymnastics. Learn some acrobatic tricks and moves to put into a group performance. 5–7 years 10.30am–12.30pm, £9.20. 8–13 years 1.30–4pm. £12.20.

24 July – 19 August

16 King Street Wimborne Dorset BH21 1DY

Tel: 01202 881924

24 July, 5 August

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12 Families Dorset familiesonline.co.uk

25–28 July Camp Bestival Lulworth Estate, Lulworth BH20 5QS Take your family on an adventure you’ll always remember - a four-day festi-holiday for kids of all ages.

Music, activities, camping and more with Nile Rodgers & Chic, Jess Glynne, Lewis Capaldi, Mr Tumble, Mister Maker & The Shapes. campbestival.net/tickets

25–26 July, 8–9, 19-20 August

813 Fitness Holiday Club

The Regent Centre, Christchurch BH23 1AS

Littledown Leisure Centre, Bournemouth BH7 7DX

Woody’s priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. But when Bonnie adds a reluctant new toy called ‘Forky’ to her room, a road trip adventure alongside old and new friends will show Woody how big the world can be for a toy.

See website for show times. From £5.50.

Fun bounce sessions where children can either try out basic trampolining skills or work towards the British Gymnastic Award scheme. Age 3–15. 2–2.55pm & 3–3.55pm. £13.80 for 2 days.

25 & 30 July, 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29 August Wimborne Model Town & Gardens, Wimborne BH21 1DY

These popular Friday night fireworks take place in Bournemouth during the summer holidays. 10pm. Free.

25 July, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 August

A holiday club for young fitness fanatics. Activities may include Altitude, trampolining, the gym, rackets, fitness games, athletics and more! Age 8–13 years. 12.45–4pm. £8/£4.90 members.

Rockley’s Summer Spectacular fireworks are held on Thursday evenings. Suitable for all the family with entertainment, live music and family activities. 7–10.15pm.

King’s Park Cycle Centre, Bournemouth BH7 7AF Give your child the skills to cycle on today’s roads. If your child is 10–15 and lives or go to school in Bournemouth, spaces are available on our Summer Bikeability Level 1 & 2 courses. 9am– 12.30pm & 1–4.30pm. See website for info & to book. http://bit.ly/2EdNDfj

Friday Summer Fireworks Pier Approach, Bournemouth BH2 5AA

Littledown Leisure Centre, Bournemouth BH7 7DX

Free Bikeability Level 1 & 2 Courses

26 July, 2, 9, 16, 23 August

Mervyn Cole’s Summer Family Fun Shows

Rockley’s Summer Spectacular with Fireworks

25–26 July, 31 July – 1 August, 6–7, 8–9, 12–13, 14-15, 20-21, 22-23 August

Toy Story 4 (U)

Trampolining

Enjoy the delights of both magic and puppets with performances at 12pm & 2pm.

25 July, 6 August

26 July – 1 August

The Quay, Poole BH15 1HU

26, 30 July, 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30 August Multi Sports Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre, Christchurch BH23 1HW A very popular and fun-packed day in which your child will enjoy a multitude of sports including football, hockey, tag rugby, dodgeball, swimming and more.

Age 5–13. 8.45am–4pm. £19.50.

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27 July RNLI College Summer Fete RNLI College, Poole BH15 1HZ Family friendly fun including circus school, Dr Balloonman, BBQ, cream teas, traditional games, live music and more.

11am–4pm. Free entry and parking.

27 July – 3 August Swanage Carnival Swanage Sea Front, Swanage BH19 1LB Eight days of fun-filled events and entertainment for all ages, including air displays, live music, sporting events, games, competitions, treasure hunts, three magnificent firework displays and famous Carnival procession. 11am–8pm.

27 July - 1 September Brownsea Summer Adventures Brownsea Island, Poole BH13 7EE

Summer Holiday Fairy Fun Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, Bournemouth BH1 3AA Have some fairy fun over the summer holidays. With lots of family activities including trails, treasure hunts, crafts, competitions and garden games. See website russellcotes.com/summer for full details.

28 July Littledown Family Fun Day Littledown Centre, Bournemouth BH7 7DX This year’s Under the Sea Family Fun Day promises to be a truly water experience with 360 Degree Planetarium Full Dome shows in the gym and Science Zone UK activities near the stage. 10am–3.30pm.

Free entry.

29–31 July, 5–7, 12–14, 19–21, 27–28 August Get Hooked on Fishing Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET An introductory taster session for children.

Learn the basics of the sport from setting up a rod, casting and fish welfare, with the added bonus of a fish or two! Tackle and bait provided. Booking advised. Age 5+.

10am–12pm. Child £14.

29 July – 2 August Summer Film School Kids Camera Action, Poole BH14 8UL Spend five days working as a film crew making your own mini feature film which is then screened at a special glittering red carpet premiere in the autumn.

9.30am–4pm. £275.

Try free nature-based trails, test your skills at the natural play area or join a sensory family guided adventure that explores Brownsea’s weird and wonderful wildlife.

10am–5pm. Activities free but normal admission fees apply.

BOOK TODAY Call 07518 514012 or email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk

Kingston Maurward

Animal park & gardens

Dorchester, DT2 8PY / 01305 215003 / visitkm.co.uk

For Sat Nav, use DT2 8PX

discount Voucher: One child free with a paying adult!

One Voucher per group per visit. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offers.

familiesonline.co.uk

Families Dorset 13

29 July – 2 August Summer Splash Intensive Swim Lessons St Michael’s Middle School, Colehill BH21 7AN Children of all ages and swimming abilities are invited to get active with Super Swimmer’s Summer Splash. A great fun way to make fast progress, overcome your weaker spots and even develop new swimming skills. You’ll be amazed at your improvement with these half hour, intensive daily sessions. Maximum 6 students per class. 10.30am–12pm. £40. www.superswimmer.co.uk

Summer Holiday Fun at the Russell-Cotes Stepping into this Victorian home, museum and art gallery feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

From the moment you enter the building you’ll be amazed by the unique architecture, art collection and beautiful objects from across the world.

This summer come and find the fairies at the bottom of the garden. Join us for magical crafts, trails, competitions and games all Summer long.

For further information, visit russellcotes.com/summer

29 July, 5, 12, 19 August Mini Olympics Two Riversmeet Leisure Centre, Christchurch BH23 1HW Children can compete in group and individual events such as water polo, and relay races as well as individual events such as sprinting and long jump. Age 5–13. 8.45am–4pm. £19.50.

29 July, 12, 27 August Bikeability Level 1 Purbeck Sports Centre, Wareham BH20 4PH An off-road course teaching bike control and skills for any situation. A pre-requisite of Level 2 Bikeability. Must be confident cyclist. Bring your own bike and cycling helmet. Age 7–14. 9am–12pm. £25.75pp.

30 July - 1 August New Forest & Hampshire County Show The Showground, Brockenhurst SO42 7QH Join us for a celebration of country life for three days of fun and entertainment for the whole family.

Don’t miss an exciting timetable of main ring attractions and Family Fun Zones providing exciting opportunities take part in activities and entertainment including Fun Kitchen, Discovery Zone and new Canine Arena. 8am–6.30pm. Adult £21, child 5–15 £1, under 4s free.

29 July – 30 August Summer Kids Camps Sport BU, Poole BH12 5BB Experience sports and games ranging from multi-sport activities, badminton, volleyball, football, capture the flag, basketball and more to keep your child entertained all day long. Tuesdays Thursdays for ages 5-8, 8.30am–1pm, £11. Mondays–Fridays for ages 8–14, 8.30am–4.30pm for £22 or £11 half day.

30 July Mini Medics First Aid Strouden Park Community Centre, Bournemouth BH8 9NU A fun and informative session offering a basic introduction to First Aid for children aged 8-13 years old. Topics include managing an unresponsive casualty, recovery position, CPR, defibrillation and managing choking. 10am– 12.30pm. £20. learntosavelives.co.uk

30 July, 6, 13, 20, 27 August Pond Dipping

Minibeast Hunt

Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath BH24 2ET

Avon Country Park, Ringwood BH24 2DH

Grab a net and see how many different creatures you can find. All equipment will be provided so you can get a close look at the creatures that you catch. Session times vary – check venue for details. £2.

31 July Treehouse Theatre & The Dancing Turtle Wimborne Model Town & Gardens, Wimborne BH21 1DY A Brazilian folk tale about a clever and talented turtle who almost ends up as turtle soup! The action encompasses wildlife and the rain forest with group involvement in dance, music and storytelling all included. 2.30pm.

31 July, 7, 14, 21, 28 August 30–31 July, 13–14, 28–29 August Bikeability Level 2 Purbeck Sports Centre, Wareham BH20 4PH Learn the cycling skills required to make trips safely to school or for leisure, includes basic road manoeuvres, traffic awareness and basic understanding of the Highway Code. Bring your own bike and cycling helmet. Age 10–14. 9–11.30am.

Free for those who have passed the Level One off-road course.

2, 30 August

Afternoon Adventures Wimborne Model Town & Gardens, Wimborne BH21 1DY Enjoy theatre, storytelling and crafts with performances at 2.30pm.

31 July, 14, 28 August

Become an intrepid explorer of the world of the mini-beasts. 11.30am–12.30pm.

Booking essential. Child £3.50.

3–4 August Great Dorset Chilli Festival St Giles House, Wimborne St Giles BH21 5ND A great day out for chilli enthusiasts, food lovers and families with children’s entertainments including bouncy castles, face painters, falconry and Alfredo’s Pirates.

3, 7 August The Kid Who Would Be King (PG) Verwood Hub, Verwood BH31 7QE Old School magic meets modern world when young Alex stumbles upon the mythical sword Excalibur. He soon joins forces with the legendary wizard Merlin in a quest to save mankind from the wicked enchantress Morgana and her army of supernatural warriors. 11am & 3pm Sat and 2pm Wed. £6.

4 August 3 Little Pigs Puppet Theatre

Character Meet & Greets

Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch BH23 4LE

Adventure Wonderland, Bournemouth BH23 6BA

A brand-new version of the classic story of the three little pigs set in Paris. A funny, warm-hearted and interactive rustic tale to make you squeal with laughter, bristling with puppets, live music and lots of joining in. 11am & 1.30pm. £7.50.

What better way to celebrate the long summer holidays than to meet your favourite kids’ characters at Adventure Wonderland. Meet CBeebies’ Bing & Flop on 31 July, PAW Patrol’s Marshall & Skye on 14 August and Peppa Pig on 28 August.

10am–6pm.

1 August Bushcraft Bootcamp Durlston Country Park, Swanage BH19 2JL Explore, make dens, cook marshmallows and create wild art! Booking essential.

2.30–4pm. £3.

1, 15, 29 August Bushcraft Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath BH24 2ET A chance to learn some bushcraft skills.

Take a guided walk to the nature area and then have a look at some woodland skills including tracking, making nettle cordage and fire lighting. Age 8–16. £8.

Poole Lifeboat Station Open Day Poole Lifeboat Station, Poole BH15 1HA A fabulous fun filled day. See demonstrations on the water, have a look at the lifeboats, meet the crew. Lots of side stalls, games and a raffle with some fantastic prizes! 10.30am–4.30pm. Free admission.

5–6, 19-20 August Kayaking Course Purbeck Sports Centre, Wareham BH20 4PH Kayaking is fun for all the family and sessions include the basic skills involved with kayaking on calm waters. Age 8–14.

Must be able to swim 25 metres unaided.

12–1pm. £22pp for both days.

14 Families Dorset familiesonline.co.uk

5-8 August Stagecoach Summer Presentation Trinity CE First School, Verwood BH31 7PG Stagecoach’s Summer Workshop Challenge is to learn a whole script packed with drama, songs and dances and then entertain family and friends in an end of workshop presentation with lights, makeup, face paint and costume!

No experience is necessary, just bundles of energy! Age 4–16.

9.30am–3.30pm. £129. www.stagecoach.co.uk/ringwood

8, 22 August

Toy Story 4 (U)

Purbeck Sports Centre, Wareham BH20 4PH

Verwood Hub, Verwood BH31 7QE

A fun-packed day incorporating orienteering, climbing, team tasks, kayaking and biking. Bring a change of clothes as you may get wet! Age 10–15.

9.30am–1.30pm. £20.

Woody, Buzz and the gang are back, alongside a host of hilarious new characters embarking on a road trip leading Woody to finally discover his true calling.

11am & 3pm Sat and 4.30pm Wed. £6.

10, 14 August

International Orangutan Day

Verwood Hub, Verwood BH31 7QE

Monkey World, Wareham BH20 6HH

Continuing the story of Max and his pet friends, following their secret lives after their owners leave them for work or school each day. 11am & 3pm Sat and 2pm Wed. £6.

Help celebrate all things orangutan, with stalls, fun trails, and talks. 10am–6pm.

Adult £14, child £10, under 3s free.

Summer Youth Theatre School Pavilion Ballroom, Bournemouth BH1 2BU

The Wind in the Willows Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch BH23 4LE Join Mole, Ratty and Badger on their madcap adventures in this heart-warming tale of friendship, mishap and mayhem in Quantum Theatre’s brand-new adaptation of this family favourite. Suitable for all the family. Adult £13.50, child £5, family £37.

7 August Seaside Crafts Wimborne Model Town & Gardens, Wimborne BH21 1DY Just turn up and get making some seaside masterpieces with Jo & Co! 2.30pm.

7, 21 August Babyballet® Summer Party Ocean Beach Hotel, Bournemouth BH1 3AQ Come and join babyballet® for their fun filled Summer Party! Suitable for boys and girls aged 1 - 6, the party will be packed with dancing, games and a meet and greet with the real Twinkle bear! 10 – 11.30am.

Child £10 with accompanying adult free.

Advance booking 07915 665120 or email bournemouthandpoole@babyballet.co.uk

8 August Dinosaur Dig & Discover!

Durlston Country Park, Swanage BH19 2JL Discover more about the dinosaurs that once roamed the Earth! Booking essential.

2.30–4pm. £3.

8–10 August Inflatable Theme Park Redlands Sports Hub, Weymouth DT3 5AW For the south west’s best bouncy castles and slides, come down from 10am–12pm, 12.30–2.30pm or 3–5pm. Unlimited access to 10 large inflatables and free face paint. Plus, an under 5’s inflatable area and soft play. Adult free, child £6.

familiesonline.co.uk

18 August

The Secret Life of Pets (PG)

10 – 17 August

6 August

17, 21 August

Purbeck Adventure Days

Workshops centred on singing, acting, dancing, performance techniques whatever your experience or ability.

Culminates with live performances at the Pavilion Ballroom. £160.

14 August Wonderful, The Wide–Mouth Storytelling Frog Wimborne Model Town & Gardens, Wimborne BH21 1DY Join Lizzie Bryant and Wonderful for an engaging and interactive storytelling adventure into the folklore of the animal world. Suitable for all the family! 2.30pm.

17 August Children’s Garden Wildlife Safari Knoll Gardens, Wimborne BH21 7ND Try pond dipping, moth trapping and bug hunting, and learn how to get out and interact with the garden’s many wildlife inhabitants, trees and flowers. Age 5–10.

10.30am–12.30pm. Adult £2, child £4.50.

17 August Bridport Carnival Town Centre, Bridport DT6 3RG A colourful celebration with an evening torchlight parade from Bridport to West Bay, which creates a superb end to the celebrations with live music and fireworks.

Procession starts at 7pm from West Road & torchlight procession sets off at 9pm from South Street.

17–18 August Canford Summer Fair Canford School, Canford Magna BH21 3AD Come along and experience the best craft, garden and gourmet food produce our amazing region has to offer. A day of fun for the whole family. Kids highlights include bouncy castle, children’s rides, running bear and snowflake falcon displays, workshops and much more.

10am–5pm. Adult £3. Under 16s free.

Christchurch Carnival Christchurch Quay, Christchurch BH23 1BY Fun for all the family on the quay with kids’ entertainment, live music and fireworks on Saturday 9.30pm, and a carnival parade on the Sunday. 10am–10pm Sat, 11am–5pm Sun. Free.

Gangsta Granny on the Lawn Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch BH23 4LE Ben discovers his Granny is an international jewel thief – and she needs his help to pull off her biggest heist yet, stealing the crown jewels!

An adventure for the whole family as David Walliams hilarious story is brought to life in the castle grounds overlooking the sea. 5pm. Adult £12.50, child £8.50, family £40.

Macbeth Highcliffe Castle, Christchurch BH23 4LE An inventive take on Shakespeare’s infamous Scottish play. Expect a fast-paced, musically-driven show, using all sorts of different instruments, plenty of multi-rolling and many a quick costume change along the way! Outdoor performance. 7pm. Adult £13.50, child £5, family £37.

21 August Get Dorset Buzzing Crafts Wimborne Model Town & Gardens, Wimborne BH21 1DY Activities for all the family to find out about pollinating creatures and how we can help them. 2.30pm.

22–26 August Great Dorset Steam Fair South Down, Tarrant Hinton DT11 8HX If you are looking for an excellent fun and action-packed day out for all the family, you’ll love the Great Dorset Steam Fair!

Adult £22, child £8.

23 August Den Building Avon Country Park, Ringwood BH24 2DH From log cabins to leafy shelters – let your imagination run wild and get stuck in.

Children must be 6+ years. 11.30am– 12.30pm. Booking essential. £4.50.

24 - 26 August Go NUTS at Monkey World!

Monkey World, Wareham BH20 6HH Every child who brings an unopened bag of nuts for the primates receives a free Monkey World badge over the bank holiday weekend. Suitable age 3–15 years.

10am–6pm. Adult £14, child £10, under 3s free.

28 August Pirates Ahoy!

Wimborne Model Town & Gardens, Wimborne BH21 1DY Calling all pirates! Have fun singing sea shanties, dress up as a pirate, invent and perform your own pirate tale, all rounded off with some swash-buckling interactive story-telling. 2.30pm.

29 August So Much Slime Kinson Community Centre, Bournemouth BH10 7LH Come and enjoy slime themed games, music, activities, crafts and fancy-dress competition. 9.30–11.30am, 12–2pm & 2.30–4.30pm. Child £5. Book at www.kayzkidz.co.uk

29 August – 1 Sept Bournemouth Air Festival More than just an Air Show...a spectacular festival of action in the air, on land and a sea! 10am–10pm Thurs–Sat, and until 6pm Sunday. Free.

Until 7 September Summer Saturday Specials Swanage Railway, Swanage BH19 1HB Experience a unique journey through six miles of beautiful scenery passing the magnificent ruins of Corfe Castle, travelling down to the blue flag beach at Swanage. Direct Saturday services available from Gillingham, Sherborne, Dorchester and Weymouth to Corfe Castle, with connecting services from Christchurch, Bournemouth and Poole.

26 August Colour Trail Dorset Adventure Park, Corfe Castle BH20 5JG For one day only a colour explosion is coming to the Mud Trail. On Bank Holiday Monday spend up to 2 hours on the Mud Trail and get covered in colour as well as Mud! 9.30am–5.30pm. Adult £12, child £10.

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