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Christmas Education What’s On Issue 30 Winter 2023

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WHAT’S ON

CURRENTLY BREAKING ALL PREVIOUS RECORDS!

THE GREAT CHRISTMAS TOY GIVEAWAY Biggies 10 available Tonka Hat & Belt Set 5 available

Katamino Classic 1 available

K3YRIDERS 3-wheeled scooter and plush helmet 2 available

Fireman Sam Ultimate Hero

Paint Pot Spin & Create Set

2 available

10 available

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CONTENTS

Contact us

Welcome

Editor Linda Stone editor@familiesdorset.co.uk 020 8241 0423

There’s a chill in the air, we’re edging towards winter and the Christmas season will soon be with us! Get ready to plan lots of festive days out and use our What’s on section to check for Christmas shows, pantomimes, where to see Santa and Christmas light switch-on events.

Sales Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk 01494 689098/ 07812 218331 Printed by Buxton Press Design Rebecca Carr

In our Education feature, find out about multiple intelligences and why reading is important in the Key Stage 2 curriculum plus discover the connection between growing sunflowers and maths skills!

July/August competition winners

Does granny know best? If you sometimes wonder how different parenting approaches work, find out how modern science stacks up against the parenting advice of older generations

In this issue

If you’re thinking ahead to your child’s birthday party, then take a look at some ideas which will save some pennies and also be kinder to the planet.

Congratulations to all our winners. You can find a list at www.bit.ly/JA23recipients

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Education What’s On Parties Parenting Early years Travel

You also have the opportunity to be the lucky recipient of one of our Christmas gifts for kids in this issue – make sure you apply inside and you’ll also ensure you receive our digital magazine with lots more content and goodies on offer.

Linda

Editor, Families Dorset This product is made of material from well-managed, FSC®certified forests and other controlled sources.

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

COME AND EXPLORE OUR BRAND NEW, PURPOSE BUILT FOREST SCHOOL!

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EDUCATION

Growing sunflowers and learning maths?

By Usha Patel Parents often ask me how to get their child interested in maths because ‘they just don’t get it.’ Luckily, they can give their child a lot of help at home in just a few easy steps.

Maths language It’s essential to keep maths language simple to build a strong foundation. Use words like ‘more’ for addition and ‘less’ for subtraction in everyday situations. For instance, you can introduce these concepts during meals: more roast potatoes, less sprouts! Repeatedly using these words alongside tangible materials helps children gradually grasp mathematical concepts.

Maths talk There are many words to describe each mathematical function.

When you teach your child the basic concepts of ‘more’ and ‘less,’ you are implicitly teaching them maths and how to think mathematically. By doing this, you are combining logic, sequence and memory. Having the basics in place can also allow you to introduce more words to describe the same function: ‘add,’ ‘together,’ ‘plus’ and ‘addition’ all mean the same.

Develop sequential thought processes Sequential thought processes are fundamental to understanding logical thinking. Parents can encourage these by discussing daily activities and routines with their children. By reflecting on how one event follows another, children can grasp the concept of sequencing, which is a vital skill in mathematics.

Establish logical thinking Children also need to develop logical thinking abilities. Fun activities like baking a cake or growing sunflowers can help introduce logic to young minds. These activities require following

‘All Through’ at Talbot Heath School

Being an ‘All Through’ school means dedicated staff really get to know every pupil, building strong, supportive, nurturing relationships and guiding girls through all aspects of their development over many years. It also means a broad curriculum which provides great consistency and progression across year groups and key stages.

Younger pupils benefit greatly from the support and role modelling of the older girls, whilst older pupils develop empathy and leadership skills whilst working alongside younger pupils.

Students can participate in intiatives like The Bridge, a volunteer mentoring programme where sixth formers support younger girls in maths and through Forest School.

Pupils attending the Junior School will automatically be offered a place in its Senior School if they are a positive role model and have a positive attitude to learning, as well as standardised and teacher-evidence of progress in English, Maths and Science.

This eliminates the stress and anxiety of Entrance Examinations.

For more information about Open Days or to book a tour of the school, visit www.talbotheath.org/open-days-and-tours 4 Families Dorset

a series of linear steps. Discussing each phase from beginning to end helps children understand the importance of logical thinking, which can extend to organising their school bags or planning for sleepovers.

Check memory Short-term memory is crucial for mathematical tasks. Insufficient working memory can hinder a child’s ability to hold and manipulate information during calculations. Playing memory games is an effective way to enhance memory capacity. For instance, counting games such as counting the number of cars on the way home can reveal memory strengths and weaknesses.

Finally, learning should be fun. When we are relaxed, we are more predisposed to absorbing what we learn. The funnier the delivery, the quicker it will stick. If your child is struggling and your efforts need to gain ground, take some steps to put the fun back into maths!

Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist at Raviv Practice London. If you need help to put fun into maths for your child, you can contact Usha at www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk.

Rhythm forms the foundation

Developing rhythm, sequence and logical skills are all prerequisites to mastering maths. Children can implicitly nurture these skills by playing a simple game of bouncing and catching a large ball by themselves.

In the first stage, they bounce and catch the ball slowly, counting each time it hits the floor. The second stage involves counting and walking one small step every time they say the next number. The sound of the step should synchronise with the ball hitting the floor. Importantly, they should utter only one number per step taken.

Achieving synchronisation between body movement and counting speed demands significant practice but becomes rhythmic once established. The significance of this game lies in the ability to think, move and count with ease. If children find this challenging, you may count for them until they can perform both tasks simultaneously. Once mastered, children can up the challenge by walking backwards and counting in reverse order. Or try counting in times table blocks eg 3, 6, 9, 12.

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EDUCATION

Understanding multiple intelligences

By Zuzu Jordan

Look up the word intelligent in the thesaurus and you will find words like ‘smart’, ‘clever’ and ‘bright’. Traditionally in schools, pupils with regular high scores in academic or IQ tests are recognised as intelligent. Yet, as a society, we marvel at great artists, musicians and Olympians for their outstanding talent.

How intelligence is measured is a debatable topic and leaves many people divided.

Howard Gardner (a well know theorist) proposed that there are many types of intelligences.

Logical relates to someone who can carry out mathematical problems, hypothesise and investigate scientifically.

Linguistic describes someone who is considered word smart and can easily learn languages.

Spatial refers to artists and architects who can visualise with their mind’s eye.

Kinaesthetic is being able to use the whole body or parts of the body exceptionally well, such as a dancer or athlete.

Musical refers to someone who can perform, compose and appreciate musical patterns.

Interpersonal is working effectively with people, knowing their intentions and motivations.

Intrapersonal refers to strong self-awareness and using this understanding in everyday life.

Naturalistic is the ability to identify different species and work well with all things natural.

activities. What are they like outside? Do they naturally tap out rhythms in the car whilst the radio is playing?

Celebrate what they CAN do so they develop a sense of pride.

Does your child know which intelligences they lean towards?

Play to their strengths. For example, if your child is spatially smart, ask them to draw what they are learning. If they show signs of naturalistic intelligence, give them sticks and other natural objects to create patterns and images.

Children are required to learn to read. Choose books that tap into their interests and intelligences.

Discuss your child’s strengths with their teachers. The more they understand your child’s leanings, the better lesson planning can involve multiple intelligences.

Play games such as Junior Scrabble, Monopoly, making sound effects in a story, charades, puppets and role play or garden activities.

Children may show strong signs of intelligence in more than one area, perhaps with a tendency to a dominant one. Sometimes their intelligences may shift when exposed to different experiences and activities.

Nurture their particular intelligences with after school activities/clubs.

How do we support our children in harnessing their intelligences?

Read books that help children understand the importance of working on their intelligences, for example You are Awesome by Matthew Syed.

Not all educational establishments will fully cater for your child’s intelligences but parents can play a vital role by using some of these ideas at home: Start by observing what your child enjoys across a range of

Use online quizzes which help identify children’s intelligences.

Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find the Facebook page Edumateuk.

Bloom’s Taxonomy

Mind mapping

How do you know if your child really understands a topic?

According to Benjamin Bloom, there are six cognitive processing abilities which reflect someone’s level of understanding: remember, understand, apply, analyse, evaluate and finally, create.

To see if your child understood their topic on the Romans at school, you may look into whether they remember facts first, before eventually progressing to creating something such as an amphitheatre. As you move up the hierarchy, the cognitive process requires a deeper level of thinking and ultimately understanding.

Mind mapping is a useful way to organise information, helping children see connections between points around a central topic.

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Mind maps can include pictures and diagrams and can be ‘messy’ like a ‘brain dump’ or presented in a more organised format. Sub-topics break off the main topic like tree branches.

The information is a summary of ideas in either a few words or a sentence. Children can create their mind maps by hand or use software which allows them to move the sub-topics around.

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EDUCATION

Reading and the Key Stage 2 curriculum

By Jemma Z Smith Reading is vital for enabling students to access the rest of the curriculum and to deepen their understanding of the world around them.

While phonics lays the initial groundwork in Key Stage 1, the emphasis in Key Stage 2 (Year 3 and beyond) expands beyond pronunciation towards exploring characters. Students are asked what might happen next or why the character would decide to do something. This skill is especially significant when preparing for SATs or 11+ entrance exams, as it helps students answer questions based on inference and understand why authors choose to use certain words or phrases.

As a parent, the importance of reading aloud to your child remains significant as they will hear words that they are not yet ready to read themselves. This is particularly true with stories which contain idioms and figurative language.

As children delve into stories from different cultures and backgrounds, they are transported to other worlds and eras.

They learn to relate to characters’ experiences, feelings and decisions, understand more about the world and cultivate a love of reading and storytelling. Reading becomes about much more than simply being able to answer exam questions and starts to broaden their horizons. It can also provide a strong model for a student’s own writing, as well as leading to improved spelling.

Firstly, think about your child’s eyes and ears. How recently did they have an eye test? It’s important that children who experience difficulties reading have their eyes checked by an optician. It could be that they actually need glasses.

Meanwhile, if an optician says your child’s eyes are fine, rest assured that schools are well-informed about learning difficulties. They can screen for memory recall and retention issues and should be able to help with different learning approaches and varied resources to support any area your child is finding tricky.

Your child’s school will also be able to explain how to obtain a dyslexia diagnostic assessment. If your child does receive a diagnosis, there’s support to help your child to access the education to which they have a right.

My child struggles to read - what should I do?

Bear in mind that sometimes it may be that confidence that is holding your child back and this is where a tutor can help.

Speak to your child’s school to find out why your child is struggling as this is not always due to a learning difficulty.

Jemma Z Smith is Director of The Education Hotel. For further advice, visit www.educationhotel.co.uk

My child only likes one author or style of book?

Sheiling School celebrates Ofsted ‘Outstanding’

Your child loves to read; that’s a cause for celebration! Any reading should be recognised positively so please don’t stop them from reading what they enjoy. However, it would, of course, help them to build and broaden their vocabulary if they were exposed to different styles of writing and a diverse range of genres.

Encouraging them to read one different author each month or each term might be a start, while still reading the latest book by their favourite author.

If you have other children in the family, asking older children to read to younger ones will help them to read different styles of books, as well as developing their confidence reading aloud.

Another option is connecting with your local library. They often run a reading challenge over school holidays and this can be an effective way of motivating your child to read a range of different books. They may even get a reward at the end of the challenge!

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The students, staff and trustees of Sheiling School are delighted to have been rated ‘Outstanding’ across all inspection areas in the recent Ofsted inspection for its residential provision.

The report highlighted the aspirational residential staff who know the children extremely well and care for them with unconditional positive regard. It refers to one parent’s description of the school as ‘transformational’ for their child and states that parents are overwhelmingly positive about the impact that staff have had on their child’s progress, emotional well-being and physical growth. The report refers to the residential provision as a place where children flourish and make exceptional progress.

Head of Residential Services, Heidi Holm Rasmussen comments: ‘To achieve an outstanding rating as a residential provision is recognition that we are understandably very proud of. This grading and outcome is a credit to the hard work and dedication of our staff team.’

For more information, visit www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk Families Dorset 7

WHAT’S ON

Santa is coming to Monkey World

This Christmas, Santa’s sleigh will touch down at Monkey World.

As well as meeting Santa and receiving a special present from him, your little monkeys can enjoy festive fare, a Christmas trail around the park and even make a present for the primates with Santa’s elves. Santa will visit on 19 and 20 December but his workshop will provide extra festive fun all week.

The Monkey World gift shop is stacked full of new items, ideal as presents and stocking fillers - and of course, a visit this time of year means seeing two hundred and fifty primates during a quieter, more peaceful time at the park. Primate adoptions also make a great Christmas gift and mean the recipient can visit their adopted primate FREE for a year.

Cinderella at The Tivoli Theatre Wimborne Following the record-breaking success of last year’s pantomime Aladdin, it’s time for a new adventure as The Greatest Pantomime of Them All – CINDERELLA – takes to the stage this festive season.

The classic tale will be brought to life with the high production standards that audiences have become used to from the Tivoli pantomime. The show will once again star BGT’s Courtney Jackson, this year weaving magical wonder as the Fairy Godmother.

Featuring stunning scenery, colourful costumes, hilarious comedy, toe-tapping tunes and eye-popping special effects, the likes of which can’t be found in any other local pantomime, Cinderella will be bringing the traditional genre bang up to date this Christmas.

Visiting Santa at Monkey World also helps support the rescue and rehabilitation of primates.

Already breaking ticket sale records, with tickets from just £15, it’s once again set to be the best value pantomime in the area.

To register interest in seeing Santa, email communications@ monkeyworld.org. Spaces are limited so book early!

More info and booking at www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk or call 01202 885566.

GIVEAWAY!

Therapeutic Fairytales Volume 2

Take the Polar Express™ Tram Ride this Christmas

This November and December, families can embark on a magical journey at Seaton Tramway.

Relive the enchanting tale of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ tram ride on a specially adorned single-deck tramcar, which transports families straight to Santa’s North Pole home. Immerse yourselves in festive cheer with steaming hot chocolate, delightful treats and a luminous display of lights around the North Pole.

Children can meet Santa and receive their first gift of the Christmas season - a Silver Sleigh Bell.

The nostalgic experience continues on the return journey, with guests being invited to sing along to heartwarming Christmas carols. The ideal festive event for both children and adults, the round trip spans about 2.5 hours.

There is limited seating in these cozy tramcars so booking is essential.

Secure your magical voyage today at www.tram.co.uk/polarexpress 8 Families Dorset

APPLY NOW!

This is the chance for THREE lucky families to receive a complete set of three new Therapeutic Fairytales (Volume 2), which show how being in nature can support children through different feeling states including anxiety, feelings of loneliness and OCD. Animal guides lead the way, offering gentle, mindful breathing exercises to help children find stillness inside.

Beautifully illustrated and sensitively written, these books explore the anxiety and loneliness we can all feel, while offering practical, self-calming strategies that can be learnt together as a family. ‘A truly wonderful set of resources – of value to us all’ – Sarah Temple, GP and author.

For more info, visit www.bit.ly/fairytalestherapeutic For those interested in storytelling as a therapeutic, creative tool, author Pia Jones and illustrator Sarah Pimenta have also written a manual full of practical, creative exercises on how to read with children therapeutically. More at www.bit.ly/ storybookmanual

APPLY AT www.familiesmag.co.uk/go Closing date: 1 December T&Cs at www.bit.ly/fairytalestcs

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WHAT’S ON

What’s on

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

Every Thu in Nov Roots and Shoots at Upton Country Park Grandparent-friendly tots sessions with storytelling, craft and exploration in gardens. www.uptoncountrypark.com

Sun 26 Nov Littledown Christmas Market Wide range of stalls selling Christmas gifts and artisan food.

With face painting and Giggles & Dizzy, the cheeky elves. www.bhliveactive.org.uk

Every Fri Puddle Jumpers Club Forest School at Upton Country Park Forest school activity sessions during school term for pre-school children and their parents. www.uptoncountrypark.com

Sat 2 Dec Fox & Cubs Club at Upton Country Park Sessions designed for dads and kids to spend quality time together in the great outdoors. www.uptoncountrypark.com

Tue 14 Nov & Tue 12 Dec Nature Tots at RSPB Arne Monthly nature group aimed at preschool children ages 2½-5. www.bit.ly/RSPBArne

Poundbury Christmas Market Local festive market with food, drink, gifts and Santa’s Grotto. www.poundburychristmasmarket. co.uk

Fri 17 Nov Creature Teachers at Upton Country Park An after-school zoology workshop with real animals. Booking required. www.uptoncountrypark.com

Sat 2 Dec to Mon 1 Jan Christmas Festivities at Corfe Castle Marshmallows, firepits and festivities and Lord of Misrule Storytelling interactive tours. www.bit.ly/CorfeCastleEvents

Fri 17 Nov-30 Dec Polar Express at Swanage Railway Special festive train journey with characters from The Polar Express™ onboard. www.swanagerailway.co.uk Fri 17 Nov-1 Jan Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland Spectacular Christmas trail with enchanting illuminations, light shows and live muse. FREE. www.christmastreewonderland. co.uk Sat 18 Nov Elfy Christmas at Dorset Museum Sustainable Christmas fashion, wellness and nutrition, selfcare, kids card making and craft workshops. www.allevents.in/dorchester Sat & Sun 25-26 Nov Illuminate 2023 at Abbotsbury Colourful lights transform and illuminate the subtropical gardens. www.abbotsburytickets.co.uk Dorset Food & Drink Christmas Fair at Athelhampton House Local food, drink and artisanal gifts with festive music and tasty, seasonal treats to sample and buy. www.athelhampton.com Sat 25 Nov Winter Fossil Walk at Lulworth Cove Join a guided walk to discover the creatures from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods around the cove. www.lulworth.com Sat 25 Nov-Tues 4 Jan Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail Dazzling illuminations that weave through Poole Town with market, food and attractions. FREE. www.poole-christmas-maritimelight-trail.co.uk

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Fri 15-Sun 17 Dec Lyme Regis Christmas Tree Festival Stunning array of glittering Christmas trees decorated by local groups and organisations. www.lymeregiscarnival.co.uk Tue 19 Dec Kids’ Christmas Drawing Workshop at Durlston Country Park A workshop at which kids can learn to draw robins, reindeer and all things Christmassy. Booking required. www.durlston.co.uk

Sun 3 Dec Wyke Christmas Fayre Lots of craft and food stalls. Father Christmas will also be strolling around with his elf helper. www.love-weymouth.co.uk

Wed 20 & 27 Dec Wild Wednesdays at Durlston Country Park Drop in at the Learning Centre from 11am to 3pm to try painting, craft and activities. www.durlston.co.uk

Every Sun in Dec until 20 Dec Reindeer Making at Kingfisher Barn Visitor Centre Make your very own reindeer from natural materials. Booking required. www.visitstourvalley.co.uk

Thu 21 Dec Winter Solstice at Corfe Castle A rare chance to watch the sun rise over East Hill from the castle ruins on the shortest day of the year. www.bit.ly/CorfeCastleEvents

Every Mon, Tue & Wed in Dec Sustainable Christmas Ornament Workshop at Lulworth Cove Join a workshop to make your own natural, sustainable Christmas ornaments. www.lulworth.com

Winter Solstice Walk at Lulworth Cove Join the Lulworth Rangers on a Winter Solstice walk to view the sunrise at Durdle Door. www.lulworth.com

Wed 6–Sun 17 Dec Christmas Tree Festival at Bridport United Church Popular, colourful, local festival. www.bridportandwestbay.co.uk Sat 9 Dec Wooden Reindeer Workshop at Lulworth Cove Join a workshop to make your own wooden log reindeer for Christmas. www.lulworth.com Sat 9 & Sun 10 Dec & daily from Sat 16-Sun 24 Dec A Fairytale Christmas at Upton Country Park Family-friendly adventure trail.

Claim your Christmas present prize. www.uptoncountrypark.com

Thu 28 Dec New Year Bottle Rocket Kids Activity at Durlston Country Park Decorate your own bottle rocket, then launch it into the sky. www.durlston.co.uk

CHILDREN’S THEATRE & CHRISTMAS SHOWS THE BARRINGTON ARTS CENTRE www.barringtoncentre.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk 16 Dec-1 Jan The pantomime of this classic adventure story promises to excite and entertain audiences of all ages.

BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Sun 10 Dec Wareham Christmas Parade Annual Christmas parade and festivities in town centre. www.christmasinwareham.co.uk

Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs Pantomime 2-31 Dec Bursting with great songs, stunning dance routines and plenty of laughter, a truly magical treat.

Thu 14-Tue 2 Jan Crazy Christmas Trail at Durlston Country Park Get the trail and activity pack and take a trip around the park to help Santa get Christmas back on track. www.durlston.co.uk

BRIDPORT ARTS CENTRE www.bridport-arts.com A Winter’s Tail 17 Dec A fun, relaxed play-along theatre adventure. Ages 2+.

The Christmassy Christmas Show 19 Dec Crammed with puppets, songs and comedy, and over-flowing with crazy characters. Ages 5+.

DORCHESTER ARTS www.dorchesterarts.org.uk Snow Play 9 Dec Highly interactive enchanting show will captivate children and adults alike. Ages 3+.

LIGHTHOUSE POOLE www.lighthousepoole.co.uk The Three Little Pigs 5-24 Dec Joyful retelling of a classic tale, told in unique physical style with raucous puppets. Ages 3-10.

Aladdin 7-31 Dec Traditional pantomime with a lampload of laughter, stunning scenery and beautiful costumes.

MARINE THEATRE www.marinetheatre.com Santa’s Christmas Wish 4 Dec A festive, song-filled, interactive family show particularly suitable for ages 2-8.

THE MINSTER THEATRE, ALLENDALE www.theallendale.org Best Ever Christmas Show 15 Dec-24 Dec Wimborne’s famous pantomime is back with a brand new adventure.

PAVILION DANCE SOUTH WEST www.pdsw.org.uk Advent Adventure 16-18 Dec Join dance artists, Claire Benson and Olivia Quayle, for festive making, moving and grooving.

Ages 3+.

THE REGENT CHRISTCHURCH www.theregent.co.uk Christmas Spectacular 16-24 Dec Dazzling costumes, sensational dance routines, perfect family entertainment.

TIVOLI THEATRE WIMBORNE www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk Ballet Theatre UK: The Wizard of Oz 29 Nov The Wizard of Oz is a two act, full-length, ballet adaptation of the iconic tale by L. Frank Baum, told through the magic of classical dance. Set to a classical score which brings the story to life, this production is family friendly and is the perfect way to introduce Familiesonline.co.uk

WHAT’S ON meet Santa in his grotto. Booking required. www.monkeyworld.org

children to the classical ballet.

The production is presented with beautiful backdrops, stunning theatrical sets and costumes.

Tickets £20 & £18 (£15/£14 concessions).

Cinderella 15 Dec-1 Jan Following the huge successes of Aladdin and Sleeping Beauty, Made to Measure Productions returns to the Tivoli Theatre this Christmas with a brand-new sparkling production of Cinderella. Featuring stunning scenery, colourful costumes, toe-tapping tunes, hilarious comedy and incredible West End special effects, Cinderella is set to be the biggest pantomime Wimborne has ever seen. Tickets Adults £19/under 16’s £15. 1 in 10 tickets free - available via Box Office.

WEYMOUTH PAVILION www.weymouthpavilion.com Snow White Pantomime 16-31 Dec Bursting with great songs, fantastic dance routines and plenty of laughter.

WHERE TO FIND SANTA BOURNEMOUTH Santa’s Grotto at Adventure Wonderland Sat 2-Sat 23 Dec Meet Father Christmas and his elves in their snowy log cabin and receive a souvenir gift from Santa.

Booking required. www.adventurewonderland.co.uk Breakfast with Santa at Bournemouth Pier Sat 9, 16, 17 & 23 Dec Share a festive breakfast at Key West Bar & Grill. Booking required. www.keywestbournemouth.co.uk

A Dorset Christmas at The Tank Museum Sat & Sun 18-19 Nov Christmassy craft market, live entertainment and Christmas trail.

Santa will arrive in a tank. www.tankmuseum.org WIMBORNE

Santa’s Grotto at Nutley Farm Fri 1-Sun 24 Dec Wander the illuminated 600m walkway, meet the friendly reindeer and visit Santa to receive a gift.

Booking required. www.nutleyevents.co.uk Meet Father Christmas at Boos Toy Shop Poundbury Sat 2 Dec Father Christmas will be in his magical lounge. Children receive gift, reindeer food and chocolate.

Booking required. www.poundburychristmasmarket. co.uk DORSET Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Stewarts Garden Centres Christchurch and Wimborne Sat 25 Nov to Sun 24 Dec Join the playful polar bears in Santa’s Winter Wonderland and meet Father Christmas himself.

Booking required. www.santa.stewarts.co.uk HAMPSHIRE

Bobbys Bournemouth Christmas Grotto, Sat 2 Dec to Sat 23 Dec Step into a world of enchantment as you visit Santa in his magical dome and receive a special present.

Booking required. www.bobbysbournemouth.com

Santa Specials at Moors Valley Railway Sat 2-Wed 20 Dec delected dates Board your train, visit Santa in his grotto and collect your special present. Refreshments for adults and children. Booking required. www.moorsvalleyrailway.co.uk

Father Christmas at the RussellCotes Wed 6, Sat 9 & Sun 10 Dec Visit Father Christmas in the beautifully decorated dining room and receive a small gift. Booking required. www.russellcotes.com

Christmas at Paultons Sat 9-Sat 23 Dec selected dates Santa’s Christmas Wish Show, Santa’s Storytime and Magical Christmas Tree. Booking required. www.paultonspark.co.uk

BRIDPORT Tea with Santa at Groves Garden Centre Thu 7, 14 & 21 Dec Expect a Christmassy show, games, winter warming food and visit to Santa. Booking required. www.grovesnurseries.co.uk DORCHESTER

LYME REGIS Santa’s Grotto at Lyme Regis Baptist Church Sat 16 Dec Santa is coming to town! Children receive gift and certificate. Booking required. www.lovelymeregis.co.uk POOLE

Breakfast with Father Christmas at Shire Hall Dorchester Enjoy a special festive treat for all the family and have breakfast with Father Christmas. www.shirehalldorset.org

Christmas at Farmer Palmers Sat 9-Sat 23 Dec Selected dates Enjoy a farm-tastic day out. Meet ‘the man in red’ and festive friends in the Magical Christmas Barn.

Booking required. www.farmerpalmers.co.uk

Visit Santa at Museum of East Dorset, Sat 2 & Sat 16 Dec Join the Reindeer trail, make Christmas crafts, receive a gift from Santa and listen to a festive story.

Booking required. www.museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Poole Sail with Santa Sat 2-Sun 24 Dec on selected dates Join Santa for 1.5 hour sail around Poole Harbour and receive a present. Refreshments provided.

Booking required. www.cityexperiences.com/poole

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Santa’s Grotto at Moonacre, Sturminster Marshall Sat 9-Sat 23 Dec on selected dates Step into a Winter wonderland, meet Santa and gather around for storytime with Mrs Claus. Booking required. www.backgardenbubbles.com SEATON POLAR EXPRESS™ Tram Ride at Seaton Tramway Fri 24 Nov to Sun 24 Dec. Selected dates www.tram.co.uk Relive the enchanting tale of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ tram ride on a specially adorned single-deck tramcar, heading straight to Santa’s North Pole home. Immerse yourselves in festive cheer with steaming hot chocolate, delightful treats and a luminous display of lights around the North Pole. Meet Santa and receive a gift. Christmas carol singalong on return trip.

Round trip approx 2.5 hours.

SWANAGE Santa’s Grotto at Swanage Pier Sat & Sun 9-10 & Sat 16-Sat 23 Dec Visit Santa in his magical grotto and receive a present. Booking required. www.swanagepiertrust.com WAREHAM Santa at Monkey World Tue & Wed 19-20 Dec Take a magical carriage ride to

Storytelling with Santa at Kingston Lacy Sat 25 Nov to Fri 22 Dec on selected dates Go on a fantastical journey to find Santa, enjoy a cosy Christmas tale, an early gift and a photo with the man himself. Booking required. www.bit.ly/NTKingstonLacy

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON Christchurch Christmas Lights Switch On Sat 25 Nov 5.30pm Festive entertainment, face painting, workshops and switch on. www.allevents.in/christchurch-uk Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Switch On Sat 25 Nov 5pm Fun-packed event for all the family, procession followed by switch on. www.lymechristmaslights.co.uk Poole Town Centre Christmas Light Switch On 1 Nov 5pm You can watch Poole Town Centre light up with its twinkling Christmas lights and decorations.

Swanage Christmas Lights Switch On Sat 25 Nov 3pm Festive shopping and food, followed by Christmas switch on. www.swanage.events Swanage Pier Christmas Lighting Up Lives Fri 8 Dec Enjoy a host of festive activities including Father Christmas, live music and more. www.swanagepiertrust.com Weymouth Christmas Lights Switch On Sun 12 Nov 5pm Light switch on with carols and the Weybay Rockers starting around 4.30pm. www.allevents.in/weymouth-en

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PARTIES

Upcycling your child’s party

By Tamsin Ryan

With everyone trying to watch their pennies and be kinder to our planet, an upcycled party is very on trend! And once you put your mind to it, you’ll be surprised by how much you can do with what you already have at home or what you can pick up second hand or for free on sites such as Facebook, Olio and Freecycle.

TABLEWARE Second hand plates, cups and cutlery from a local charity shop, car boot sale or online marketplace are simple options.

Sets can be stored to use each year or you can sell them on afterwards and most likely make your money back. Or take them back to the charity shop; think of it as a donation to a good cause. For the centrepiece, a cake stand is super-easy to make with an upturned teacup, a plate and a little superglue.

PARTY BAG FILLERS

PARTY BAGS Shopping bags from stores can make perfect gift or party bags. With a little imagination, some crafty materials and some glue, these branded shop bags can be transformed into unique, personalised bags. Or make your own: there are some easy video instructions on making a paper bag in the tutorials section on Instagram @planetwrapit.

Make time to make things. Here are some ideas to get you started: scrunchies made from leftover fabric; painted rocks or shells found on the beach; bracelets made from beads from your local scrap store or crayons made from all your kids’ broken ones.

WRAPPING PRESENTS There are so many things you can find around the house that you can use for wrapping gifts: magazine pages, old maps, pieces of sample wallpaper, your kids’ paintings or leftover packing paper. If you’re a dab hand with a sewing machine you could make a fabric drawstring bag from leftover fabric scraps. Alternatively, reuse an old pillowcase or wrap with a piece of fabric, like the Japanese art of Furoshiki.

TABLECLOTH AND NAPKINS

FANCY DRESS COSTUMES

BIRTHDAY GIFTS

BUNTING AND GARLANDS

There really is no need to ever buy new again - look to places such as Facebook and Vinted. Buying second hand is not only better for the planet, it’s so much cheaper and also saves you hours making your own costumes from scratch.

How about gifting a pre-loved present?

So many toys are played with once and then left to gather dust. Check out Preloved Presents range of wrapping paper and gift tags at https://bit.ly/ prelovedp which makes it easier and more acceptable to gift pre-owned presents, to be loved again and again.

Make your own from last year’s birthday cards, your kids’ drawings, old books passed their best, paper doilies, fabric scraps, pom-poms made from leftover wool or even an old duvet cover.

Alternatively, browse Pri Pri (www.pripri. co.uk) or EcoBunting on Etsy for fabulous upcycled garlands and bunting.

Old bed sheets work well refashioned into tablecloths. They can be painted, tie-dyed or appliquéd in order to tailor them to the party theme and it’s a great activity to get the kids involved in! If you already have a tablecloth you can use, you could make placemats or a table runner from scrap fabrics to match the theme of your party.

For more birthday party tips, read Tamsin’s blog at www.icecreamandjelly.com or check out her Instagram @icecreamandjelly_uk.

12 Families Dorset

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PARTIES

Climbing parties at Golden Gecko!

Golden Gecko is an exciting indoor climbing centre and the ideal place to host your child’s birthday party. Everyone will enjoy plenty of climbing and food can be provided.

With 190m2 of climbing available on the Climbing Tower and Challenge Wall, children will never be bored at Golden Gecko.

What’s more, any child ages 5 and above can join in, with or without climbing experience. For those that do have experience, bouldering is also available.

With more than seventy routes and easy access to roped climbing, safety is taken care of with seventeen easy auto belay devices which lower the climber to the ground at a controlled rate and act as a safety check if they fall. Gecko also offers a range of instructed sessions for both kids and adults.

If you’re coming to watch your family climb or need fuel between climbs, The Golden Gecko cafe provides a range of delicious food, snacks and great coffee for you to enjoy.

For more info visit www.ggclimbing.com

A hassle-free kid’s party with Splashdown A hassle-free kid’s birthday party? Now that really is something to celebrate! When you book a birthday party at the South’s favourite all action waterpark in Poole, everything is provided, from invitations to refreshments and the team will make sure everything goes swimmingly.

There’s something for everyone at Splashdown. With thirteen flumes in total (some are seasonal), facilities for younger guests, a jacuzzi and bubble bench, your kids won’t be bored. A birthday party at Splashdown is a memorable event for everyone and your child’s friends will be talking about the party for weeks.

Choose from two birthday party packages; a flume-only party or a party with food served in a dedicated party room.

Have a younger child who isn’t so confident in the water? Check out the party packages at sister attraction, Lemur Landings Children’s Entertainment Centre, also based at Tower Park in Poole.

More information at www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk, www.lemurlandings.co.uk or groupsandparties@lemurattractions.co.uk

INDOOR BOULDERING & CLIMBING CENTRE The South’s favourite waterpark

Mon-Fri 10am-10pm Sat 10am-6pm Sun 12noon-6pm.

FLUMIN’ GREAT FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY!

OPEN ALL WINTER LONG!

See our WEBSITE for opening times

www.ggclimbing.com 34 Romsey Industrial Estate, Greatbridge Road, Romsey, SO51 0HR 01794 590022 I info@ggclimbing.com

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01202 716123 info@splashdownpoole.co.uk Tower Park, Poole BH12 4NY | FREE PARKING

www.splashdownwaterparks.co.uk . Fantastic flume rides . Tots Pool . Interactive Splash Zone Families Dorset 13

PARENTING

Granny knows best?

By Ellie Malt Respect for your elders is still considered an important principal but perhaps it’s another way of saying we need to pay attention to the wisdom of grandparents. They are the bearers of family traditions and their advice helps pass down values, stories and customs, helping a child understand their roots.

But how far should we follow their parenting advice?

Grandparents grew up with punishments that seem old fashioned and even inappropriate now, such as spanking or being sent to bed for not finishing everything on your plate.

Traditional ‘authoritarian parenting’ which used external punishments to drive unquestioning obedience has fallen out of favour. So why is this and what has replaced it?

A major reason for the change comes down to modern scientific research. In the UK, research with children who were separated from their parents during the Second World War led to the development of theories like ‘attachment parenting’. This suggested that trust and a good rapport between child and parent was, in the long term, much more effective in changing behaviour than physical punishment.

Since then, advances in MRI scanning have generated new insights into the development of children’s brains. Parenting styles based on this science are called ‘neuro-parenting.’ Each new step-up in scanning technology reveals more detail about how children’s brains grow. However, the link between structural changes in the brain and child behaviours is still subject to interpretation and pre-conceived bias.

Sometimes, neuro-parenting has pressured parents into worrying about the impact of every action on their child’s future success. Yet there are limits on how far parenting can affect children.

We now understand that genetics intervene and that perhaps our children won’t ‘fail at life’ if we don’t constantly stimulate their brains. Recently, there’s been more concern about overstimulation, while the latest brain scans show brains remain impressively elastic throughout life.

Who is the best source of parenting advice: modern science or granny?

‘authoritarian’) as achieving the best outcomes. It is a parenting style that combines one aspect of traditional parenting (setting limits and holding a child to rules) with the science of brain development, by adopting different methods in enforcing the rules.

Rather than punish, authoritative parents now coach their child on the consequences of behaviour. They are firm but kind. They may be strict but they are not mean.

They have learned that children are born with different types of brain and differences in sensory processing abilities. A child might have good reasons for not clearing their plate. Whereas a more traditional parent might issue punishment, an authoritative parent may question whether this is a rule worth setting in the first place.

On the other hand, suppose you have decided a fixed bedtime is a rule you want to be consistent about. Having established the rule, as an authoritative parent, you discuss the reasons and involve your child in establishing how it will work. You then give positive praise for any progress.

Refusal or delays are met with reminders about the rule and why it exists; always in a calm and warm manner. The parent will stand firm. Phew! No one said it was easy but it does have scientific evidence behind it. In long-term studies, non-punitive discipline was found to promote children’s own self-control and honesty and prevent aggressive behaviour.

I wonder what granny will think of that?

Ellie is a journalist, writer and mum of two daughters. She and her family live in Surrey.

Research supports ‘authoritative parenting’ (as opposed to

Different parenting styles

Finding your own style

Developmental Psychologist, Diana Baumrind, highlighted four parenting styles: Neglectful parenting: nothing is demanded and parents have a low responsiveness to their child.

Authoritarian parenting: parents demand unquestioning obedience but responsiveness to their child is low.

Permissive parenting: parents demand little from their children but are highly responsive.

Authoritative parenting: parents place demands on their children to obey rules but are also responsive to their children, allowing for reasoning.

Parenting fashions come and go, from the ‘we were outside playing all day until teatime and it didn’t do us any harm,’ through to so-called ‘helicopter parenting’ at the other end of the scale.

14 Families Dorset

There is no absolute right or wrong, just as there is no blueprint child. While mindful of research, what’s more important is that you are consistent as parents and bring up children in a loving and engaging home where the ‘rules’ are the ones you know work for your family.

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EARLY YEARS

Developing your child’s social skills Some children may find socialising more difficult than others.

If your little one struggles or seems reluctant to be with other people, they may need some support to learn social skills.

Here are some things you can do to help.

Practise talking Chat about what you are doing, seeing or feeling to help build your child’s vocabulary and exposure to conversations. Role play, games and storytelling are all good for developing language.

Model good manners, such as saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’

This will encourage children to act this way with their peers.

Listen and take turns Children learn both verbal and non-verbal skills from the people around them. Try showing them what good listening looks like through your own behaviour and using games like Simon Says.

Find ways to make taking turns fun. Choose an object and tell your family they need to be holding it when they talk. Pass it between you. If your child is a little older, take it in turns to make up funny sounds as if you are having an alien conversation.

Show the importance of body language Use eye contact and body language with your child. Experiment by asking them to talk about something while you use poor body language. This could be crossed arms, looking away, fidgeting or frowning. Ask them how your actions made them feel. Then show them attentive body language. Take it in turns.

Teach them about personal space Consider teaching your child about personal space. Ask

Learning moments in play It can be helpful to spot opportunities for learning social skills in your child’s play. For instance, you can ask your child to help with tasks and see if they’ll try activities with others, to learn teamwork skills.

You can also teach your child positive ways of responding to winning, losing or not getting their way. Show them you understand when they’re upset but help them see what the positives could be. Might the outcome have made their friend happy? You can also show them what sharing looks like when playing at home.

If your child hits or bites, help them recognise how others feel when they’re hurt. Praise your child when you see them playing well.

You can also gently encourage your child to apologise if they do hurt someone during play. If they don’t feel comfortable doing this, model apologising for them until they feel more confident. You could say something like: ‘Freddie feels sad that he’s hurt you and he wants to say he’s very sorry.’

them to put their hands on their hips and stick their elbows out to understand their personal space. Introduce the idea of boundaries by asking first if you can come into their space for a hug.

Develop their emotional skills When you help your child understand, express and cope with emotions, it helps them recognise the emotions of others and develops empathy. Teach them to problem-solve, guiding them with questions such as ‘What could you do?’ or ‘What could you say?’ Try to avoid answering for them.

You can also talk to your child about friendships and what it is to be a good friend. If you can, arrange and support opportunities for socialising.

With thanks to Action for Children (www.actionforchildren.org. uk) for this article. For further support on child development, visit its Parent Talk website at www.parents.actionforchildren. org.uk

Perform with Stagecoach Ringwood & Wimborne

Stagecoach Performing Arts offers weekly singing, dancing and drama classes to children ages 4 to 18 in Ringwood and Wimborne.

Stagecoach’s ethos is built around instilling creative courage for life, regardless of age or ability. High quality teaching and student inclusion is the upmost priority and Stagecoach believes in making special memories that children will treasure forever.

It’s been a busy year for Stagecoach Ringwood & Wimborne, with EVERY student participating in performances at the Verwood Hub and Community performances at the Wimborne Folk Festival and St Ives Summer Fayre.

At its summer workshop, students put on a show in just four days and now students ages 6+ are thinking about their 2024 performance at the Bournemouth Pavilion.

Try a FREE two week trial and let Stagecoach find your child’s confidence today.

Contact Emily at ringwood@stagecoach.co.uk or visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/ringwood

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Families Dorset 15

TRAVEL

UK holiday ideas for winter and spring The UK may be small in size but she’s mighty in glorious getaway choices for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a cosy crashpad to hunker down in this winter or a stylish staycation for some spring sunshine, Families has teamed up with Tiny Travelship (www.tinytravelship.com) to bring you some amazing family-friendly hotels and homestays on Great British soil.

Tredethick, Cornwall

With child-centric entertainment and a genuinely parent-pleasing stay, Tredethick’s self-catering Cornish cottages offer space and privacy alongside plentiful on-site facilities. Think home-from-home meets fully equipped family resort, complete with soft play, ride-on tractors, an indoor pool and hot tub.

Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, Kent

Port Lympne is the UK’s chicest safari experience, caring for over nine hundred animals in six hundred acres of Kentish savannah. Overnight guests can choose from mid-priced glamping pods, boutique bedrooms or the fantasyfulfilling big cat lodges which have panoramic windows overlooking majestic mammals.

Cynefin, Herefordshire

The Ickworth, Suffolk

The Old Farmyard, Oxfordshire

The Grove, London

Watergate Bay is the epitome of a perfect family-friendly hotel where every guest’s needs ares met with style. Decor throughout offers a chic twist on coastal Cornish design and the complimentary Kids’ Club is no exception. The real crowning glory is its location, positioned on a two mile stretch of golden sand. Family swim times in the infinity pool make the most of these soul stirring sea views.

Equal parts charming and comfortable, The Ickworth is a masterpiece of Italian-inspired architecture within almost two thousand acres of National Trust parkland. The famed Kids Club offers ninety minutes of free childcare a day, allowing parents to indulge in a spa treatment, adult-only meal or just curl up with a good book.

Complimentary baby monitors which stretch throughout the hotel take care of post bedtime.

Doxford Farm, Northumberland

Nestled in glorious Northumberland, Doxford Farm offers an elevated glamping experience. There’s no compromise on style or substance, with attention to every detail including flat screen TVs and power showers in the Pinterest-worthy bathrooms. All this, plus miles of secret sandy beaches to discover.

Tucked between Hay-on-Wye and the Brecon Beacons, a trio of luxury lodges provides the ultimate place to slow down and soak up nature. Expect designer furniture, insanely comfortable beds and hot tubs under the stars, plus plenty of woodland walks and outdoor adventures on your doorstep.

16 Families Dorset

Watergate Bay, Cornwall

For a hideaway for a large party, look no further than The Old Farmyard in Oxfordshire.

Every bedroom is spacious and decorated with boutique hotel quality upholstered beds. Children of all ages have endless, all-weather entertainment and the gardens come complete with a private hot tub; perfect for adult-only alfresco time.

City staycations full of highend experiences don’t get much better than The Grove.

Just outside of Watford, this all-singing, all-dancing country house hotel has it all. There’s a Kids Club to rival London’s top nurseries, a dedicated splash pool for babies, a musical trail through the woodlands and even a six-metre-tall resident giraffe; not to mention the championship golf course and spa for adults. A mere twenty minutes’ train ride from central London makes West End day trips a breeze too.

Find more details about these properties and many more, all visited and verified by a fellow family at Tiny Travelship (www.tinytravelship.com). Filter holidays by the age of your children, weaning and sleeping requirements, distance from the airport and other ‘tick list’ details.

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