Families Gloucestershire March-April 2018 Issue 43

FR E E

TAKE

ME H

OME

IN THIS ISSUE

Gloucestershire

Education 11 Plus Mock Exams

Wild Times

Enjoy The Great Outdoors

Be Cyber Smart

Stay Safe Online

SEN Challenges

Spotlight On Autism

What’s On

Hunt For Those Easter Treats

IALS FREE TR

LAUNCHED

Thursday 22nd March Friday 23rd March Saturday 24th March

Thursday School, Charlton Kings Thursdays age 4-6 from 4pm - 5.30pm Thursdays age 6-8 from 4.30pm to 7.30pm Friday and Saturday Schools Fridays at Bettridge School Fridays age 4-6 from 4pm - 5.30pm Fridays age 6-8 from 4.30pm to 7.30pm Saturdays at St James’ Primary School Saturdays age 4-6 from 9.30am to 11am Saturdays age 6-8 from 10am to 1pm

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Issue 43 March/April 2018

familiesonline.co.uk

Editor’s Letter

Dear readers

Spring is here and for some of us it will be time to start thinking about which school to choose. That can be a difficult task at the best of times but spare a thought for those parents with a child who has special educational needs. In this issue we take a look at the SEN challenges of children with autism and share the experiences of two mothers; and if you have concerns about your youngster then we have a check list of five early signs that may indicate autism.

We also have some great ideas for family days out and holiday camps to keep the children busy during the Easter break. I hope you find it useful.

Diane Clifford. Editor, Families Gloucestershire Magazine 01684 770566 - editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

Advertise with us and reach over 38,000 parents in the region.

Next issue May/June - Booking deadline is Friday 6 April.

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

Could you be the next editor of Families Gloucestershire?

Would you like the flexibility of working from home and never miss a school performance or sports day again?

Are you interested in running your own business and would find the support offered by a franchise helpful?

Are you self-motivated and well organised?

You now have the opportunity to buy Families Gloucestershire Franchise – a business which is up and running, including established client base, readership and drop points.

No previous experience needed, training is available and you will have the support of the fantastic team at Families Magazine Ltd.

To find out more about running your own business around your family call 01684 770566 or email editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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Families Gloucestershire

My Stage School’s Thursday School which launched in January 2018 has had an outstanding first term working towards shows at the Bacon Theatre. Thursday children are at a very high standard for their first term, so they eagerly await the second term with only a few places available. Go along to the free trial and see what all the fuss is about! Free trials 22, 23, 24 March at Charlton Kings Junior, Cheltenham. April trials also available. www.mystageschool.co.uk

Little Helpers Muck In Bristol is the number one city when it comes to parents who get their children to help out the most in the home, with 44% of local parents getting their kids to muck in with household chores, according to a survey of 1,439 UK adults carried out by fuel supplier Emo Oil. Following Bristol was Birmingham on 39%, Oxford on 35%, Cardiff on 31% and Edinburgh on 37%.

Sleeping On Your Side Decreases Rick Of Stillbirth In the UK, there are nearly three stillbirths for every 1,000 pregnancies after 28 weeks.

Researchers from the University of Manchester have found that mothers who sleep on their backs in the last three months of pregnancy are more than twice as likely to have a stillbirth.

One of the largest to date, the study of just over 1,000 women found the risk doubles if women go to sleep on their backs in the third trimester.

One reason proposed for this increased risk is reduced blood flow to the uterus due to the baby and stomach putting pressure on major blood vessels. Researchers say the position which women fall asleep in is most important - and they should not worry if they are on their back when they wake up.

The pregnancy charity Tommy's has started a campaign to raise awareness of the study and to encourage women to sleep on their side. www.tommys.org/sleeponside

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

News & Views

Don’t Forget British Science Week

Photo Credit: National Trust

9-18 March. A ten-day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths. Check out our great science experiment that you can do with the children at home! See page 13. www.britishscienceweek.org

Register For Wear A Hat Day

More Risky Play For Kids The Chief Inspector of Schools recently announced new training for School Inspectors to ensure they are properly focusing on child safety but not at the expense of opportunities to broaden and enrich young minds.

Calling all schools, parents and teachers! Please get involved in Wear A Hat Day 2018. Taking place on Thursday 29 March, this is the UK’s premier brain tumour research fundraising event. Don’t worry if you can’t make it that day, just choose another. Join in the fun as schools and families across the UK get involved to help raise funds for research into brain tumours.

“Wear A Hat Day is a perfect opportunity to bring the whole school together and support this game-changing charity.” – Mr Dan Gross, Deputy Head Curriculum, Beachborough School.

It’s very easy to register online at www.wearahatday.org (it works really well on mobiles!) and then we can send out your fundraising pack. In 2017, families and schools came together alongside other organisations and communities across the UK and helped raise over £300,000 to fund our vital research.

With your help we can double this in 2018. We’re aiming for £600,000, enough to keep a group of researchers funded for a year. www.wearahatday.org

Amanda Spielman, the Head of Ofsted, expressed concern that children are being deprived of rewarding experiences and the ability to cope with normal everyday risk because of an overzealous approach to health and safety.

Ms Spielman said “Making sure children are safe at school is, of course, an important part of our work, but I want to be sure we look at the right things in the right way, without going overboard”.

Recent research has also shown that in today’s society only 21% of children play outside today compared to 71% of their parents when they were children. www.gov.uk/government/speeches

Monkey Music Is Celebrating Its 25th Birthday

The UK’s award-winning pre-school music group has now been introducing little ones to the wonderful world of music for a quarter of a century!

You can find Monkey Music classes at family friendly venues across Cheltenham and Gloucester. They are open to babies from 3 months right up to children of 4 years and are designed to educate and entertain through song, dance and play. The weekly classes are grouped according to age, taking youngsters on a real musical journey.

It was local mum-of-three Sian Ferris who brought Monkey Music to Cheltenham and Gloucester back in 2002, as the very first franchise outside of London. She says: “Monkey Music is all about sharing precious time together; introducing babies and toddlers to the wonderful world of music in a way they can easily understand and enjoy. We sing, dance and play instruments, great fun for the little ones and for the grown-ups too – and there’s a huge amount of research out there showing how beneficial music is in early development.”

For your free trial class call Sian on 07768 457403 or email - cheltenham.gloucester@monkeymusic.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Spring book selection. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website. Download the specially written reading activities for these books and buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com. Have fun reading!

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: Up, Up and Away by Tracey Corderoy (Nosy Crow

Night Zookeeper: The Giraffes of Whispering Wood by Joshua Davidson (Oxford £6.99

£5.99) ED SAYS: “It is Rocky Road Race Day and Shifty and Sam are so excited.

They have made sure the Bakemobile is gleaming and ready for the race as they would love to win the sparkling gold cup.

However trouble is in store when they see Red Rocket at the start line. Can their super-sized spatulas and the Cupcake-Catapult stop Red Rocket from winning? Shifty and Sam must then use their skills to help catch a jewellery thief and sort out a mystery parcel that is left at the café.”

Mr Penguin and the Lost Treasure by Alex T Smith

((Hodder £9.99) ED SAYS: “Mr Penguin certainly looks like a penguin but he is much more than an ordinary penguin – he is an adventurer! So when the telephone rings and Boudicca Bones, owner of the Museum of Extraordinary Objects, asks him to find buried treasure he is eager to help, flippers aquiver with anticipation. He enlists the help of his friend Colin the spider and the dynamic duo head to the museum. But when things get dirty and even dangerous, will Mr Penguin keep his spirit of adventure and emerge a hero? Here is another warm and funny book by this talented writer/ illustrator. It is lively and entertaining from start to finish.”

ED SAYS: “Will and his classmates paint a giant mural at the local zoo. When he pays a late night visit to the zoo, Will is fascinated to see the painted animals light up. Then to his astonishment the glowing gates swing open and he is transported into the mysterious world of the Night Zoo. As the Night Zookeeper his task is to protect the giraffes and other creatures from the robotic Voids that are trying to destroy the zoo animals. Will he, with the help of his friend Riya, be able to overcome the evil Voids?”

The Explorer by Katherine Rundell (Bloomsbury £7.99 Bloomsbury)

ED SAYS: “Four children find themselves alone and in danger after their plane has crashed in the rainforest. Although they think there is little chance of being rescued, they also know they must retain hope and use their skills and instincts for survival. They gradually find signs that someone has been there before them and when they discover a map, they are led to a ruined city. Can they possibly survive in this beautiful but hostile environment?

“This is a gripping adventure and a fantastic story full of suspense. The setting with its vivid and exotic landscapes will captivate any would-be explorers.”

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

Independent School Open Days Berkhampstead School, Cheltenham Co-ed ages 3 – 11 Saturday 10 March Contact 01242 523263 www.berkhampsteadschool.co.uk Bredon School, Cheltenham Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 18 Saturday 19 May Contact 01684 293156 www.bredonschool.org Cheltenham College Prep School Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 13 years Saturday 3 March Contact 01242 522 697 www.cheltenhamcollege.org

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Families Gloucestershire

Dean Close School, Chelteham Board and day co-ed ages 2 years 9 months to 18 years Saturday 3 March & Saturday 12 May Contact 01242 258079 www.deanclose.org.uk King’s School, Gloucester

Co-ed day school ages 3 – 18 years Saturday 10 March www.thekingsschool.co.uk Rendcomb College, Cirencester Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 18 years Friday 2 March – Juniors Saturday 3 March – Seniors Contact 01285 832306 or email www.rendcombcollege.org.uk

St Edward’s School, Cheltenham.

Co-ed 2 – 11 years Friday 9 March Contact 01242 538900 www.stedwards.co.uk Westonbirt Prep School, Tetbury Co-ed Preparatory Day School & Nursery ages 3 – 11 years Saturday 3 March Contact 01666 880333 or email www.westonbirtschools.co.uk Wycliffe, Stonehouse Board and day co-ed ages 2 – 18 years Saturday 3 March Contact 01453 820412 or email www.wycliffe.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Award Winning 11+ Specialists

Julia, Lead KSOL 11 plus tutor

What is the 11 plus?

The 11 plus is a highly competitive set of entrance exams taken by children at the age of 11 when applying to a grammar or independent school.

What’s in the 11 plus exam?

Gloucestershire CEM 11+ exams are multiple choice question papers with timed sections in verbal ability (including comprehension and vocabulary), numerical ability and non-verbal ability (NVR).

How can parents prepare children for the 11 plus?

KSOL provide online 11+ courses and run CEM 11+ mock exams throughout the year to help benchmark ability and to familiarise children with the format of the exam paper.

Why should children sit 11 plus mock exams? We don’t want children to become stressed by the atmosphere in the real exam, so it’s important for them to experience this formal setting in order to build confidence. Sitting mock exams also enables parents to benchmark their child’s ability and work on any weak areas. Identifying and tackling these areas will boost a child’s performance on the day.

KSOL are award-winning 11 plus specialists with over 10 years of experience. Upcoming mock exam dates include 22nd April and 29th July. Call 0121 733 6558 or visit www.ksol.co.uk to book.

11+ Tuition

R

Over 10 years of experience

11+ CEM Mock Exams

in Gloucestershire

Prepare for the real exam!

Book now for April and July

Book 2 11+ Mock Exams & get £10 off

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Benchmark your chil

Based on CEM Format Ranking Report Included Real Exam Environment Maths, English, Verbal & NVR

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Offer applies when booking April & July Gloucestershire Mock Exams 2018

60 Seconds With A KSOL 11 Plus Tutor

Education

0121 733 6558

Call 0121 733 6558 Visit ksol.co.uk *Offerwww.ksol.co.uk expires 31/01/2015 - £10 offer for first month only

Rendcomb College Labelled As ‘Excellent’ Rendcomb College, the independent school for children aged 3 to 18 in-between Cheltenham and Cirencester, has recently been visited by the Good Schools Guide who have labelled the school “excellent,” with particular reference to its pastoral care, outdoor sports facilities and the Head. The review took place at the end of 2017 and emphasis is given to the location and outdoor space that all children are able to take advantage of: “Forest School is one of the stars of the show at Rendcomb,” they report. The review also tells of the “impressive” new performing arts space, the Griffin Theatre, which opened its doors last year. Families who wish to visit Rendcomb and find out about all it has to offer may book on to one of the upcoming Open Mornings: Junior School (ages 3 to 11) on Friday, 2 March and Senior School (ages 11 to 18) on Saturday, 3 March.

There is also a Forest School event for pre-schoolers aged 2+ and parents on Friday, 23 March. Details are on the Rendcomb College website: www.rendcombcollege.org.uk and bookings can be made online or over the phone on 01285 832306. familiesonline.co.uk

FREE EVENT!

Spring Forest School Friday 23 March, 10am to 12 Noon

Join us for an exciting morning of Forest School activities within our 230 acres of beautiful grounds. Meet the Head of Juniors and discuss joining Rendcomb College Junior School with our friendly admissions team over a warming hot chocolate. Suitable for pre-school children aged 2+.

Register: www.rendcombcollege.org.uk/visit 01285 832306

Your adventure starts here

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

5

Education

Raising Children In A Digital Era ‘How can I retrieve my child from the far away land of screen time’ and ‘how much screen time is safe for my child’ are the frequently heard cries of parents today.

Research has shown that parental concern about children’s media use across TV, online, mobile phones and gaming has increased since 2016. Parental concern, it would seem, is not unfounded and the statistics do not always make for comfortable reading. Research has shown that eighty percent of under 2’s have already experienced considerable exposure to screen time and Ofcom’s most recent report (November 2017) shows that: • 53% of 3-4 year olds go online for nearly 8 hours a week.

• 79% of 5-7 year olds go online for around 9 hours a week.

• 94% of 8-11 year olds go online for nearly 13.5 hours a week.

• 99% of 12–15 year olds go online for nearly 21 hours a week.

• Almost a quarter of 8 – 11 year olds and three-quarters of 12–15 year olds have a social media profile.

• Childrens TV viewing time has increased and children site watching TV on mobile devices as a strategy to avoid parents censoring viewing or a way to spend time when they are alone.

• 12% of parents of 3-4year olds and 41% of parents of 12-15 year olds say that they find it hard to manage their children’s screen time.

presenting to our children. However, would it be more accurate to say that as parents we have unwittingly been seduced by the ‘information age’ in an attempt to give our children what we think they need. As becoming a parent is increasingly a ‘conscious choice’ in today’s society we strive hard to give our children what we believe they ‘need’.

Five Ways To Help Young People Stay Safe Online

Prioritise Safety Teach children not to give out personal information like their name, address, telephone number or name of school.

Set Parental Controls Agree a list of websites that you child is allowed to visit and remember to check the minimum age limit on social media services.

Discuss their activity Take an interest in their online world.

Talk to them about their favourite websites, videos and their online friends.

Research shows that increasing digital peer connection and screen time is leading to our children ‘tuning out’ in the home environment prompted by an information overload and being exposed to information that they simply are not ‘ready’ to digest.

Obesity rates are on the increase and this is not helped by children’s increased screen time. These may be the most common concerns among parents. However, is the more damaging and least well considered aspect of our children’s screen use the subsequent reduction of time spent in play..

The research tells us unequivocally that children need time to play with their parents or carers. Parental/carer Set Boundaries Establish time limits for activities such as interaction, family rituals and traditions using the internet and games consoles. that integrate us into our own given Make sure to set aside time for culture. These are what we know to be the unplugged play and family activity. building blocks for healthy brain Be Open

development, the ability to form healthy Let them know that they can tell you relationships and the resilience to sustain about anything that happens on the the losses and disappointments that are internet and you will listen without inevitable in life. judgment.

Some authors describe an ‘information age’ ushered in by the ‘digital revolution’ as being bigger than the industrial revolution.

Unlike the industrial revolution, the ‘information age’ is spreading like lightning speed. It would be easy to say that parents have become complacent about screen time and blind to the potential damage that the ‘digital revolution’ may be

We regularly berate ourselves for our shortcomings as parents. Rather than allowing this to be the case can we become more mindful about the time we spend with our children. Maybe the question that we, as parents, could ask ourselves is not how much screen time is safe but how can I increase face to face time with my children and simply enjoy each other’s company?

Dr Elise Kearney, mother of three and Chartered Consultant Child and Family Psychologist trained as a Clinical Psychologist in Glasgow. She has over 15 years of experience working with children and families in the NHS and privately.

Dr Kearney offers 1:1 assessment and treatment sessions for a variety of difficulties including; difficulties stemming from family separation, bedtime or sleep problems, feeding difficulties or “fussy eating”, dealing with anger or “temper tantrums” and separation anxiety, difficulties around potty training, sibling rivalry or difficulties with sharing, starting nursery/school and transition to high school or College/University, anxiety, panic, phobias, low self-esteem, attachment difficulties, low mood and depression, behavioural problems, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), bereavement (this list is not exclusive).

Elise runs a clinic at The Therapies Centre, The Fold, Bransford, Near Worcester.

Dr Kearney can be contacted on elisekearney@btinternet.com and 07713755224 or find out more about the service she offers at www.thefold.org.uk/naturaltherapy-centre/consultant-child-family-psychology/ 6

Families Gloucestershire

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

11 Plus Mock Exams Perfect Techniques 11 Plus Tutoring Academy will be running their successful programme of mock exams from April through to August.

The programme of mocks exams will build your child’s confidence to deal with the exam environment. All exams have different content to each other. Early mock exams (April, May and July) are beneficial in understanding your child’s weaker areas, with time to improve these areas. Later mock exams (August) allow your child to perfect their exam technique and build confidence.

Exam strategies and detailed reports provided at every exam.

Courses are held in Charlton Kings, Cheltenham. They are run by a published author of very popular 11plus books who has CPPS - Families Ad x 2_Layout 1 22/11/2017 17:08ofPage 1 manyMagazine years experience of preparing hundreds children for the 11plus. The mock exams have an excellent record supported by testimonials.

Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis. Early booking is adviseable. For exam times and booking form go to: www.11plustutoringacademy.co.uk or contact Philip McMahon email: 11plustutoringacademy@gmail.com or Close call 01242 221271 Dean Pre-Prep - Families Magazine: Landscape - 130mm High x 180mm Wide (22.11.2017)

Gloucestershire Buckinghamshire CEM 11+ EXAM GROUP TUITION • Year 5 and Year 4 - small group courses

(supported • Mock Examsby 1 to 1 tuition)

• Groups run by professional tutor and published author, Philip McMahon • Our own high quality resources for tuition and homework and Tuesday Courses • Saturday Sunday courses available • Proven results

CEM STYLE TEST PAPERS FOR BUCKS 11+ EXAM Order our new test papers in conjunction with Letts Letts, the expert in revision and 11+ Tutoring Academy, have teamed up to provide pupils with resources for CEM • Completely new and up to date content • CEM style in their format and question types • Designed for practice at home Order our new test papers at collins.co.uk/letts11plus 2016- FINALIST PRIVATE TUTORING COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2015

www.11plustutoringacademy.co.uk 01242 221271 Twitter @11plustutoring

Make the right start Open Mornings

Age 2-7 Years

DC

DEAN CLOSE

CHELTENHAM

Reception

9.00-11.00am

Tuesday 23rd January 2018

Whole School

9.00-11.00am

Saturday 3rd March 2018

Whole School

9.00-11.00am

Saturday 12th May 2018

PRE-PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Tel: 01242 258079 Email: squirrels@deanclose.org.uk www.deanclose.org.uk

LIBRARY | FOREST SCHOOL | STRINGS ‘ORCHESTRA’ | TENNIS & SWIMMING LESSONS familiesonline.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

7

Education

Life With A Child Who Has Special Educational Needs Parents are often faced with additional challenges when they have a child with special needs. Claire Winter talks to some parents about life with a child who has SEN, and gets some tips on how to find the help they need.

Caroline is mum to seven-year-old Alfie, who has autism. Holly has a six-year-old autistic son, called Harry.

Holly’s family noticed that Harry had traits of autism before he was three but she disagreed and thought he was just quirky.

When he reached three and still couldn’t speak and wasn’t reaching expected milestones, she saw her health visitor.

“We went through a few months of speech therapy, and when there was no progress, the speech therapist pushed for a referral so we could see a paediatrician and get a proper diagnosis. At this time life was pretty horrendous. I didn’t understand autism. I was trying to learn how to behave around Harry. It was scary; it felt like we were walking on eggshells. I didn’t understand the triggers and how to calm him down. He also wasn’t sleeping. It meant that we had no time to ourselves.

“I finally got to see the doctor; Harry was at an acute level when the doctor saw him. He has head butting the floor - and I was crying. On reflection, it was the best and worst day of my life. The doctor said he has autism and a panel to get a statement would be the next step. To get a statement, you have to go back to the very beginning emotionally. It is a very difficult and time-consuming. With the support of a local charity guiding me through the process, we got a statement for Harry and got him a place at a local, specialist school.”

Even basic things are difficult For, Caroline life with autism is like being on a constant rollercoaster, as no two days are the same. “Some days we’re on a level, and then the following day we might be hurtling down an enormous drop! Alfie is autistic, which as a spectrum disorder, affects people in completely different ways. Alfie’s main challenges include social and communication issues, anxiety, dyspraxia, sensory issues, emotional underdevelopment and short-term memory problems. This means that even basic things, like asking him to put his shoes on or find his water bottle can be fraught with difficulties. Frankly, it’s exhausting at times! Some days are better than others. My measure is if we manage to get through the day without any major tantrums and he goes to sleep feeling loved and protected, then we’ve had a good day.”

Holly was overjoyed when she learnt Harry had a place at a local, specialist school, Manor Green in Maidenhead.

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Families Gloucestershire

Autism: Parents face additional challenges “I knew the school would turn Harry around and it has. His behaviour transformed when he started attending the school, he embraced life there and still does. He started in Reception, and he loves it. The teachers are amazing.”

Caroline’s son is in a mainstream school, and she says that getting education and support for your child at school is a huge sticking point for many SEN parents.

“The problem with the current mainstream school system is that it has a ‘one size fits all’ approach, but schooling a child with SEN is like trying to stick a square peg into a round hole.

In our experience, because Alfie keeps up academically with his peers and appears to ‘cope’ in school, he only gets a basic level of support with things like social skills and confidence building. I think Alfie could thrive at school if he had access to further support and if the school could fund a helper to sit with him.

He is a bright and intelligent boy, but his specific needs are not addressed, he will only perform at a mediocre level. Because Alfie just gets on with it out of sheer determination and a huge amount of self-control, he continually slips through the net. He is exhausted when he comes home from school from trying to ‘fit in,’ and that is when he is most likely to meltdown. But unfortunately, the school doesn’t get to see this behaviour. This

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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Education is a major issue for many SEN parents, and a lot of us feel very let down by the system.”

Holly set up her charity Stand Out for Autism (www. standoutforautism.com) to raise awareness about the condition and help local parents. Dealing with other families and children’s reaction to an autistic child can be a challenge.

“Sometimes I just adopt a warrior mum pose when Harry is having a meltdown; it doesn’t help to have another parent comment on his behaviour. Sometimes you need to think before you say something, as you may not know the full story. This is one of the main reasons why I set up the charity. Sometimes, it is also difficult dealing with people who are well meaning. If a stranger approaches my son when he is upset, it makes him even worse. It is hard because he has a non-visible disability.”

Caroline also says Autism is often referred to as a ‘hidden disability,’ but it does depend on the child and their needs.

“The nature of the condition being a spectrum disorder means that everyone experiences it differently. Often people don’t realise Alfie has a condition, and then if we explain, we get comments like, “well, he doesn’t look autistic.” For some reason, people feel qualified to comment on your child’s condition after only meeting them for five minutes! I have to continually explain to people that because he is classed as ‘high-functioning,’ i.e. he keeps up with his peers academically and has average verbal skills, it doesn’t mean that his life is any easier. In fact, in some ways it’s harder, because society expects him to be a certain way because he doesn’t have the indicators of what people perceive to be ‘disabled,’ such as a wheelchair or a full-time carer. I am always happy to talk about Alfie and his condition as part of a positive conversation about disability.”

What should you do if you suspect your child may have SEN or additional needs?

Holly says: “I would go to your family doctor or health visitor as the first port of call. Look for local support, see if your local children’s centre has any specialist groups. The National Autistic society is also a great resource. There may also be a local organisation that could help you too.”

Caroline says if your child is school age, you should get in touch with their school, particularly if they haven’t flagged anything up.

“Be able to give clear examples of how the issue is affecting your child and their ability to learn or function in a classroom setting, and how it may be affecting them at home. Keep notes if necessary. Issues at school can often manifest themselves at home through bad behaviour, withdrawing, general grumpiness, and not wanting to talk about school. Obviously, it depends on the challenges involved and the individual child, but if you suspect the issue is related to mental health, then they ought to be seen by a GP who can refer them on to the relevant services, although access to this varies depending on area and hospital trust.

“Last of all – don’t give up! If we all keep shouting about it, eventually we will get heard!” familiesonline.co.uk

Five Early Signs of Autism Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder can mean parents don’t have to wait for their child to start school to implement intervention programs.

Early autism intervention programmes can address the primary behavioural symptoms of autism in children from as young as 18 months and can have long term positive effects.

Many children with autism appear to be developing typically until they start pre-school, when language and social delays stand out in contrast to the development of their peers.

These five signs of autism can be observed in children as young as 12 to 24 months of age.

1. Your child avoids eye contact and does not look when you point at something.

2. Your child does not pick up on other people’s facial expressions, tone of voice or gestures.

3. Your child does not point with one finger to request items or get help.

4. Your child reacts unusually to sights, sounds, smells and textures.

5. Your child does not respond to his or her name.

If you have concerns about your child, contact your GP or healthcare provider today.

For more information on early intervention visit www.autism.org.uk www.gemiini.org,

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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Clubs and Classes All Stars Cricket: Eight Weeks Of Fun

Boost Your Fitness And

Introduce Little Ones To Cricket All Stars Cricket is a brand-new initiative from the England and Wales Cricket Board aimed at providing children aged five to eight with a great first experience in cricket and an opportunity to become a star.

The course includes an eight week All Stars Cricket programme held at accredited cricket clubs in Worcestershire and Herefordshire, (1 x hour session per week) and a homedelivered pack that includes a bat, ball, activity book and personalised rucksack, cap and t-shirt.

They are a perfect way for children to learn about cricket and make friends in a fun and safe environment.

If you’re looking to get into a sport that boasts a variety of positives - from losing weight to improving fitness - you’ll struggle to find one more fitting than swimming. Here we explain why you should take up swimming and encourage the whole family to join you.

Low impact Swimming is arguably the only sport you can partake in without risking serious injury.

This is because of the non weight-bearing nature of it, and the lack of stress it puts on your joints, unlike running, for example, which many people are physically unable to do.

Because the pressure is uniformly distributed, it isn't concentrated on the likes of your knees and hips, how it would if you weren’t submerged in water.

That being said, whilst injury cases are incredibly rare, and if they do occur, only lowgrade, you should certainly warm up and stretch before going all out, as with any strenuous activity.

The courses will be delivered by trained volunteers who deliver gamebased activities that teach basic cricket skills like catching, throwing, hitting a moving ball and social skills like team work and communication.

The course costs RRP £40 (price may vary) and clubs will be encouraged to deliver their programmes from 11 May through to July. For more information or to register for a summer of #BigMoments please visit www.allstarscricket.co.uk 10

Award winning music classes for babies & young children CHELTENHAM & GLOUCESTER T: 07768 457403 E: cheltenham.gloucester@monkeymusic.co.uk

FREE TRIAL CLASS

Saturday classes now open!

familiesonline.co.uk

Clubs and Classes

Take The Plunge

Being soft on the body is a benefit for those who already have an injury or medical condition, in fact. Osteoarthritis, for example, can be incredibly painful when partaking in any weightbearing exercises, yet swimming offers some relief and the weightlessness allows for more movement than would be able on dry land.

Fitness Because swimming works most of the major muscle groups throughout your body, it’s a great cardiovascular exercise. With water being much denser than air, your body has more pressure put on the limbs than if you weren’t in the water, raising your heart rate and improving your fitness. If you frequently visit the swimming pool, and are able to improve on your technique, you will quickly see a difference in how much more efficient you are as a swimmer, and how further you can actually gol.

Muscle toning With swimming able to work your whole body more than any other form of cardio exercise, it’s no wonder the swimmer’s body is so revered. Whilst the likes of running and cycling mostly target your lower body, swimming incorporates most of your body’s major muscle groups, helping you tone all of your muscles in unison.

Great for working your core muscles, lats and back, and upper arms, with consistent and relatively intense sessions at the pool, you’ll be able to not only build a slim and toned physique, but also increase your natural strength.

Work with a West End and TV pro Tom Goodall at Mander Hall Academy this Easter and summer! Learn specially choreographed routines and songs from ‘The Greatest Showman’ and ‘High School Musical’, staging and performance skills, as well as vocal coaching, characterisation and improvisation. A sample of the work will be performed to parents at the end of the course.

Mander Hall Academy run Saturday classes at Balcarras School, Cheltenham with highly experienced teachers and performers, who want you to enjoy taking part and have fun. Easter workshops: 9 to 12 April. Summer workshops: 13 to 16 August. www.manderhallacademy.co.uk/masterclassworkshops/

Health benefits There are a variety of health benefits that have been found to come from swimming. Training in the water has shown a decrease in blood pressure in people with hypertension.

It is also a great exercise for those who are overweight, as the buoyancy assists with the aches and discomfort of various outof-water aerobic exercises Although swimming may not burn calories as quickly as some other more intense forms of exercise, with frequent sessions, it will certainly help in losing weight. Another bonus is the positive effects it can have on one’s back and posture.

Mental benefits It is now quite common knowledge that physical activity has positive effects on people’s mental health, but research suggests swimming is particularly effective.

Lowering stress levels, incidences of depression, and anxiety, raising mood and improving sleep, are just some benefits that can be experienced through frequent swimming.

The reasons behind these benefits are not only down to the endorphins released, like with all types of exercise, but it may also be due to a natural, positive response of simply being in the water. This, combined with a sense of community with others in the pool and the opportunity to make new friends, makes swimming an incredibly positive experience for anybody. familiesonline.co.uk

Camp 4-2-11 is a family run camp for kids ages 3-14, offering a creative alternative to sports-based camps Swimming, arts and crafts, cookery, zumba, archery, drama, music, games, quests + more!

Based at St Edwards Senior School, Cheltenham Family discounts when 2 or more children book for the same week

Holiday times can be tricky for working parents and Kate Hall who owns Camp 4-2-11 understands this better than most — she is a mum of six who runs two businesses! Kate’s Easter holiday camp (now taking children aged from three years to 14 years) is being run from St Edward’s Senior School, Cheltenham, from April 9-13 .

Camp 4-2-11 has a great reputation for offering arts, crafts, drama, singing and dance and even baking in addition to sports such as archery, tennis and swimming. Kate says: “It’s really important to me that parents go to work knowing their kids are safe and having fun. We understand it is their holiday time so we offer flexibility and choice.” The camp accepts childcare vouchers, is Ofsted registered and works to strict staff/child ratios. www.camp4211.co.uk

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

11

Tips To Encourage A Wild Time With Kids: 1. Create a Den in the garden.

Get the kids to help build it.

They could even camp in it overnight!

2. Invest in some wellies and waterproofs so that you can go outside, rain or shine.

Enjoy Wild Time Outdoors One of the greatest joys you can have as a parent is to see your kids run free outside - watching the delight on their faces and listening to their laughter as they hide in long grass, get muddy or roll down a hill. With increasing pressure from work and school, families are struggling to find free time to be in nature.

By Claire Winter According to a report commissioned by Persil for their ‘Dirt is Good’ campaign, British children are spending less time outside than adult prisoners! 74% of kids are spending less than an hour outdoors every day. A third only spend half an hour, and one in five don’t go out at all. Also, a recent government funded survey showed that one in nine kids haven’t been in a natural environment, like a park, forest or beach for at least 12 months.

Being outside is good for children’s general wellbeing and mental cognition.

Kids are shown to be happier, healthier, more confident and less anxious when they spend time in nature. Equally, adults benefit from being outside with their children too. Serotonin levels are higher in your body after you have spent time in daylight and being in fresh air also helps you sleep better.

With increasing pressure at school, parents who work, after-school clubs, screen time and homework to do, children generally have a lot less free time. Unstructured time outside and in 12

nature is something that has become a luxury rather than a necessity.

Organisations like The Wild Network are trying to encourage families to get back outside. Their mission is to ‘rewild’ childhood and give children more #wildtime. Their groundbreaking film has been seen across the world, and they have a wild time learning project in which over 200 schools have taken part. You can find out more by going to their website www.thewildnetwork.com.

Spokesman for the Wild Network, Mark Sears says: “Over the last five years, we have seen an avalanche of evidence that shows that time spent outdoors offers huge benefits to children as well as their wider families and communities. Wild Time is one of the few things left that is fun, free and good for you and yet most families don't get enough of it. Other than the more obvious benefits like better physical and mental wellbeing, which are increasingly well evidenced it is now proven that Wild Time can support learning too through better concentration, imagination, resilience and capacity to rapidly process risk - all vital tools that children will need to thrive in the 21st century.”

If you want more time in nature with your family try and make time at the weekends to take them to a beach, wood, forest or river. If you’re on a budget, or short on time, find your local park and enjoy the green, open space. The best thing about spending time in nature is that it is as free as the air you breathe. Pack some sandwiches and the world is your oyster.

3. Grow some fruit and vegetables. You can do this by using pots on the windowsill or by using a small patch in the garden.

4. Start an animal watch list that children can tick off.

5. Create some landscape art.

Use twigs, leaves, shells or stones, and photograph what you have made.

6. Make walks fun – do some of the walk blindfolded! Or make a treasure map of things your children have to find.

7. Try geocaching (www. geocaching.com). This does involve using an app but might encourage a reluctant nature explorer who won’t be parted from a device.

8. Let older children have some freedom. Get them to walk, explore and go out on their bikes without adults.

9. Research some outdoor activities or exercise classes that you can do as a family, like an outdoor boot camp or mountain bike riding.

10. Sign up to the National Trust’s ‘50 Things To Do Before You’re 11 ¾.’

Other Resources

www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/ naturedetectives www.ifootpath.com www.marvellousmaps.com

*WITH THIS VOUCHER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 30 SEPTEMBER 2017. PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED AND THIS To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk VOUCHER MAY ONLY BE USED ONCE. FAMGLOS

Families Gloucestershire

What’s On

An Abundance of Family Fun... p into this world of

Last chance to ste

story!

Our exhibitions will be closing from 8 July whilst we embark on our exciting redevelopment.

Look out for our travelling Pumpkin and visit our Story Café from Summer 2018.

Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP

www.storymuseum.org.uk 01865 807600 Registered charity 1107809

The Wychwood Festival returns from 1 to 3 June 2018 to Cheltenham Racecourse overlooking the rolling Prestbury Hills. Renowned for delighting crowds and welcoming all ages, the three day celebration of music, comedy, speakers, workshops, a dedicated kids literature festival, food, craft beer and lots of family fun.

Nominated as ‘Best Family Festival’ each year at the UK Festival awards. www.wychwoodfestival.com

Science Week 9-18 March: Try It At Home

Advert for Families magazine Spring 2018.indd 1

01/02/2018 14:50:53

You Will Need:

Honey Washing Up Liquid Water (try putting food colouring in to make it really stand out) Vegetable Oil A Large Glass

A simple way to demonstrate density, and the properties of different liquids to your children at home – using the kind of liquids that you most likely have in your kitchen cupboard. If you have the same amount, or volume, of two liquids, for example 100ml of honey and 100ml of water, the honey is more dense, and therefore weighs more. Using this principle, and a few other common household liquids, you can try something really cool.

Step 1: Honey! Squeeze some honey into the bottom of your glass, making sure it doesn’t drip onto the sides of the glass!

Step 2: Washing up liquid. Squirt this on top of the honey – again without touching her s the sides of the glass. See how it settles on top of the honey? That’s because the t r u d nt f r liqui n e honey is more dense! If it mixes up a bit, just leave it to settle for a few minutes e m eri the tch before…

Exp ome o our ki even uld hs r ny Step 3: Water. We’re going to add this a little differently this time though – instead wit have i ou co her o Y ig o of carefully avoiding touching the sides of the glass, with the water it works best if you oards? e of h ant t id w b m ol you pour it carefully down the side of the glass. Again leave it to settle until you cup y a ga if you y of s a have clear layers if you need to. pla r! Or densit s like a e g low t the d thin olt or at Step 4: Vegetable oil. Trickle it down the side of the glass – just like you did with b h d ka the water. Again, leave to settle if needed. And here you are – you’re very own loo ects, a ato, a see w j d m b n o density column. Cool huh? y to ball a s! r r che pong ppen a g h pin

Thanks to Chris Snowden STEM & Public Engagement Manager at Eureka! The National Children’s Museum for this experiment.

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13

What’s On

Please check with the venue in case details have changed.

EASTER EGG HUNT

An eggciting combination of steam trains, BATSFORD ARBORETUM the Easter Bunny and a host of activities Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB bringing Easter fun for all the family. Make 01386 701441 your own Easter bonnet and wear it on www.batsarb.co.uk your visit. From 10.00am.

30 March – 15 April. The Big Batsford Easter Bunny Hunt. The NEWARK PARK Easter Bunnys helpers have escaped and Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 they’re hopping around the Arboretum 7PZ 01453 842644 find them to win a prize! £2.50 per child.

3 April – 15 April. Easter www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park CHEDWORTH ROMAN VILLA Activities At The Villa. A fun 30 March -2 April. Cadbury Yanworth, Cheltenham, GL54 3LJ children’s trail and discover how the Easter Egg Hunt. Join the hunt at 01242 890256 Romans celebrated spring. Daily craft Newark Park this Easter! Follow our fun www.nationaltrust.org.uk/chedworthactivities. 10.00am - 4.30pm.

Easter trail and earn yourself a tasty roman-villa reward! Explore Newark House, enjoy 30 March - 2 April. Cadbury DYRHAM PARK games on the lawn and discover beautiful Easter Egg Hunt. Get close to nature Dyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER spring estate walks. £2.50 per trail. while you follow the clues around the villa (Sat Nav: SN14 8HY) 0117 937 2501 11.00am - 4.30pm. to claim your chocolate prize. £2 per trail www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park including chocolate prize. 10.30am – 4pm. 24 March -8 April. Cadbury OVER FARM MARKET

Easter Egg Hunt. Go and explore the Over Farm Market, Gloucester GL2 8DB

parkland with an Easter hunt trail and 01452 521014

claim your Cadbury chocolate prize. www.overfarm.co.uk

£2.50 per trail. 10.00am - 4.00pm.

14 -17 April. Easter Trail. The trail

will take you on a short walk around the

GLOUCESTER WARWICKSHIRE farm. Look out for their friendly animals familiesonline.co.uk

RAILWAY and don’t forget your wellies. The trail

The Railway, Toddington, Glos. GL54 5DT begins at the farm shop. 9.00am - 5.00pm

2nd April. The Easter Eggspress.

(Sunday 9.30am - 5.00pm).

MORE

ONLINE

Gloucestershire Breastfeeding Supporters’ Network Support Groups All groups are free drop-in sessions. You don’t need to have a breastfeeding problem.

Monday. 10.00 – 12.00 noon: MOBS in Dursley, Parish Room, St James the Great Church GL11 4JE Tuesday. 10.00 – 12 noon: BAPS, Hesters Way Children’s Centre, Dill Avenue,Cheltenham GL51 0ES Wednesday.

10.30 – 12.00 noon: BABES, Noah’s Ark Children’s Centre, York Road, Priors Park, Tewkesbury, GL20 5HU Thursday 9.30am – 11.30am: CRIBS, Church Hall, St John’s Church, Churchdown GL3 2DB 10.00am – 11.30am: BEST, Springboard Children’s Centre, Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU 10.00am – noon: MOBS in Stroud, Parliament Street Children’s Centre, Bisley Old Road, Stroud GL5 1NL 12.30pm – 2.00pm: GLOBES, Gardners Lane Children’s Centre, Cheltenham GL51 9JW. Full information: www.gbsn.org.uk

Cheltenham Children’s Centre Baby Groups

Every Monday at St. Margaret’s Hall, GL51 3NU 10.00am-11.30am (0-18 months) Every Tuesday at Rowanfield Children Centre, GL51 8HY 1.00pm-2.30pm (mums to be and pre-walking babies) Every Wednesday at Gardners Lane Children Centre, GL51 9JW 10.00am -11.30am Every Thursday at Hester’s Way Children Centre, GL51 0ES 1.15pm -2.45pm Every Friday at Oakwood Children Centre, 14

Families Gloucestershire

GL52 5QH 10.00am - 11.30am.

Bishops Cleeve Library Children’s Centre.

Every Tuesday from 10.15 – 11.30 a.m.

Bishops Cleeve Library, GL52 8NN. From new born to crawling.

Gloucestershire Slingmeets

GLOUCESTER AND CHELTENHAM SLING MEETS For times and venues please check www.facebook.com/ cheltenhamandgloucesterslinglibrary STROUD SLING MEETS Parliament Street, Children’s Centre, Old Bisley Rd, Stroud

NCT Courses

CHELTENHAM & NORTH COTSWOLD BRANCH First Aid Spaces are limited so please email Louisa at:events@nctcheltenham.org STROUD BRANCH NCT Signature antenatal course For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact your local course organiser on 0208 752 2494 or bookings3f@nct.org.uk NCT Early Days/Postnatal course For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact your local course organiser on 0208 752 2494 or bookings3f@nct.org.

TETBURY BRANCH Signature antenatal course For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact bookings3d@nct.org.uk uk

NCT Drop Ins

CIRENCESTER BRANCH Bumps, Babes & Beyond:

Every Wednesday 9.30am - 11.00am at Cirencester Baptist Church, Chesterton Lane.

Contact: ParentSupport.cirencester@nct.org.uk BEST - Breastfeeding Support: Every Thursday, 10.00am – 11.30am at Springboard Children’s Centre, Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU. Contact: breastfeeding@cirencesternct.org.uk GLOUCESTER BRANCH Gloucester Breakfast Club: Every Wednesday.

10:00am – 11:30am. Wheatstone Inn, Centre Seven, Gloucester GL4 3HR. Open to all, members and non-members. Contact: coordinator.gloucester@nct.org.uk Relax, Stretch & Breathe Classes: Every Monday in term time.

For more info visit www.nct.org.uk.uk/ gloucester/courses Gloucester Bumps and Babies Every Tuesday from 10.30am-12.00 noon at Salvation Army Hall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1QU. You don’t need to be a member to come along. Contact: Gloucester@nct.org.uk Tots on the Move at Tinies Nursery at Gloucester College on Llanthony Road, GL2 5JQ. Every Monday term time only 10.00am -11.30am no need to be a member. Parking is limited.

TETBURY BRANCH Bumps and Babes: Every Wednesday 10.30am – 12.00 noon at The Snooty Fox, Market Place, Tetbury GL8 8DD

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

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What’s On

Please mention you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire Magazine

PRINKNASH BIRD AND DEER PARK Prinknash Road, Matson, Gloucester GL4 8EU 01452 812 727 www.thebirdpark.com Mad Hatters Tea Party A marquee festooned with fabulous Alice in Wonderland backdrops creates a magical atmosphere. Facepainting included. Booking essential.

SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge 30 March – 15 April. Dusty’s Giant Easter Duck Hunt. Help Dusty find the cheeky giant yellow ducks hiding around Slimbridge. You’ll need to use all your special detective skills to track down these cheeky ducks and claim your prize! 9.30am - 5.30pm.

NEWBRIDGE FARM PARK Aylton, Ledbury, Herefordshire. HR8 2QG 01531 670780 www.newbridgefarmpark.com Easter specials. Lamb bottle feeding, a treasure hunt, and lots of baby animals!

Also new for 2018 are extended playbarns for more all weather fun, a new play frame set, improved giant sandpits, and more!

Soft play areas, hay bale tunnels, rope swing, sandpits, zipwire, car track, trampolines and more! The newly extended kitchen and shop will provide a variety of hot and cold beverages or bring a picnic.

THE STORY MUSEUM 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP 01865 790050 www.storymuseum.org.uk 31 March – 7 July. It’s Always Tea Time. Feast your eyes on the most exquisite of tea parties in this awardwinning illustration exhibition presented in association with the Estonian Publishers Association and the Estonian Children’s Literature Centre. Inspired by the classic children’s book Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, 72 artists from 19 countries take a journey down the rabbit hole to join the Hatter and friends. credit: Slivontchik

Newbridge Farm Park: Lots of fun

DAYS OUT COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK Bradwell Grove, Burford OX18 4JP 01993 823 006 www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk Daily Activities. Penguin feeding takes place every day at 11am and 3pm in the Walled Garden. There are keepers on hand to answer questions.Daily Lemur talks at 12noon. The narrow-gauge railway runs during April to October (weather permitting) and takes you all around the Park: Don’t miss the ‘Skymaze’ adaventure playgroud.

The Story Museum: Step Into A Story

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES DEAN HERITAGE CENTRE THE WILSON Soudley, Cinderford, Gloucestershire Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum, GL14 2UB 01594 822 170 Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT www.deanheritagecentre.com 01242 237431 8 April – 23 April. Connect With www.thewilson.org.uk Nature And Discover Forest Last Sunday of every month.

Stories. Learn simple bush craft skills, Arty Sundays. Families are invited to build dens, identify plants and trees and take part in fun and interactive art learn tracking skills to find out where activities. FREE family drop-in. Suggested forest creatures live and wander. donations of £2 per child. 11am – 1pm. familiesonline.co.uk

GROWN-UP LIVE CLASSICAL MUSIC IN A RELAXED, BABY-FRIENDLY SETTING WHERE TO FIND US WE MEET MONTHLY ON MONDAYS AT 10.30AM, ST ANDREWS CHURCH, MONTPELLIER ST, CHELTENHAM GL50 1SP LILLIPUTCONCERTS

@LILLIPUTCONCERT

BABIES AND TODDLERS

WE THE CURIOUS Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB 0845 345 1235 www.wethecurious.org 11 May. Toddler Takeover: Super Senses Explore a variety of textures at a low level in the texture garden, prick up your ears to some interesting noises in Soundlab. Book early as sells out fast.

10am - 4.00pm.

THE GLOUCESTER GUILDHALL 23 Eastgate St, Gloucester GL1 1NS 01452 503050 www.gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall Fridays. LaLa Lounge Escape the shopping frenzy for an hour or three.

10.30am – 12 noon. For parents with under 5’s. Free entry.

LILLIPUT CONCERTS St Andrew’s Church, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL50 1SP www.facebook.com/LilliputConcerts March and April. Various Concerts. Grown-up, live, classical concerts from professional musicians in a relaxed, baby-friendly environment Monthly concerts in Cheltenham, Bristol and the Cotswolds, Great quality music followed by great quality coffee and cake.

SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge Second and fourth Tuesday of each month. Slimbridge Cygnets WWT Toddler Group..Arrive at 10.30 to catch up with other parents before enjoying a wildlife themed activity at 11am. Term time only.

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

15

Families Gloucestershire

Don’t forget to say you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire Magazine.

Please check with the venue in case details have changed.

Re-opens for 2018 on Saturday 24th March.

Open Good Friday, Easter Saturday & Easter Monday. Closed Sundays.

Easter Holiday specials Treasure hunt*, lamb bottle feeding and lots of baby animals. *Easter week only

New for 2018 Larger undercover playbarns, improved giant sandpits & outdoor play area!

www.NewbridgeFarmPark.com

Little Marcle, Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG

16

Families Gloucestershire

To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

01531 670780

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