Families Hereford & Worcester Jan/Feb 2019 Issue 55

FR E E

TAKE

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Hereford & Worcester

IN THIS ISSUE

Education Open events

Cyberbullying Useful tips and advice

Behaviour Patterns Understanding your child

What’s On Local fun

Issue 55 January/February 2019

familiesonline.co.uk

News and Views Dear Reader Happy New Year.

The start of the new year is an exciting time for all of us, as we make plans for the year ahead and are full of optimism for what’s to come and what we can achieve.

Summer holiday planning may be on your agenda and on page 12 Claire Winter has selected some quirky ideas on where to go. So get planning.

If you are struggling to understand your child’s behaviour then our feature

by Dr Elise Kearney on page 10 may offer some very useful tips.

Not So ‘Free Childcare’

Most parents are paying to access the government’s 30 hours ‘free’ childcare scheme, according to research for the Department of Education.

The research confirms that 56% of parents are paying charges for additional items or activities when accessing the 30 hours offer. The majority of charges are for meals, snacks and other refreshments, while charges for special activities such as music, gym lessons or outings are less common, as are charges for consumables such as sun tan lotion.

Almost half of parents said that they had seen restrictions placed on when they could use the hours or that they had to be taken at times specified by the provider.

Additionally, the research found that 39% of providers reported a reduction in their profit due to the 30 hours scheme while 25% of providers said that they had moved from either making a profit to breaking even or even making a loss.

More info at www.pre-school.org.uk/news

Local Tiny Talk Teacher Wins Award Mollie Prior a TinyTalk teacher in Evesham, Droitwich and Worcester North has won an award for her outstanding baby signing and toddler talking classes.

Education is never far from a parent’s mind for long. We showcase some of the leading independent schools in the area to help you with these important decisions.

“I am so proud to have been recognised for my work with TinyTalk, an award personally chosen by founder Katie Mayne. It is a true gift to teach babies and toddlers how to sign and increase their communication skills through signing, singing and having fun. It’s the best job in the world and I love my TinyTalkers and their families,” said Mollie Prior.

Our regular What’s On section is worth a look for ideas on keeping the family entertained too..

I hope you enjoy reading the magazine.

Diane Clifford. Editor

01684 770566 editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

During the class babies and parents are taught signs from British Sign Language to help their little ones communicate before they can speak, ‘giving them a voice’.

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Advertise with us and reach over 44,000 parents in the region.

Next issue March/April Booking deadline is Friday 8 February Families Hereford & Worcester 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 Hereford & Worcester 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..

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Mollie Prior: TinyTalk award winner

More info at www.tinytalk.co.uk/molliep email: molliep@tinytalk.co.uk call 07432612054

Girls Play Less Sport Than Boys Boys spend longer than girls on sporting activities. A report by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) found that boys spend an average of 40 minutes per day on sports activities, compared with 25 minutes a day for girls. But encouragingly, boys and girls who do participate in sport enjoy it equally, according to the study.

One way parents can change this is by setting an example. Research shows that by being active themselves, parents, particularly mothers can influence their child’s activity levels. Another way is to make it social. Research by Women in Sport shows that girls are most interested in making friends and having fun when playing sport.

Seek out clubs, classes or activities that may have girls of a similar age as your daughter or encourage her to take up new classes with her existing friends.

More info: at www.womeninsport.org To advertise call: 01684 770566

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

RGS Worcester What do we offer that is different at both RGS Springfield and RGS The Grange?

Some parents may be concerned about the academic standards that their current school demonstrates. Sometimes this displays itself through worries over large class sizes, differentiation for individual students – including supporting each child in reaching their potential whatever that may be. At both of the RGS Prep Schools, these potential concerns should be washed away: class sizes are small, the needs of the individual learners are met, the behaviour is exceptional, facilities are outstanding and children are taught by outstanding subject specialists from a young age.

We balance the need for academic results for every child, with many wider opportunities for children to be involved with life outside the classroom. To be part of choirs,

work together, not just within a class or year group. This helps each child develop confidence and build positive relationships. Teamwork, displayed week in, week out on all the sports pitches for girls and boys alike develops resilience and the understanding that practice and hard work are needed to improve, as does learning a musical instrument. All of these opportunities support each child develop into the person they are meant to be, and lay the foundations for a successful time at Senior School, where even more opportunities abound.

orchestras, plays, sports fixtures and other extra-curricular group activities is an education all of its own, arguably teaching many of the soft skills that are so valued in the workplace as well as resilience and teamwork. At both RGS Prep schools, we offer excellent opportunities outside the classroom with the chance to take part in activity clubs. There is something for everyone, with an array of choices from chess, sailing, horse riding, pottery, or Lego.

Many clubs support the sporting offering with rugby, badminton, football, netball and hockey as well as more individual fitness activities such as fencing, street dance or yoga. Taking part in the school community, whether in a school production, orchestra or raising money for charity means the children

Visit us at RGS The Grange and RGS Springfield, and we are sure you will be impressed with what is on offer.

“RGS Worcester does what it does with a vision and panache that not many can match”.

The Good Schools Guide

Open Mornings RGS Worcester 12 January 2019 9.00am - 12.30pm

RGS The Grange 19 January 2019 9.00am - 12.30pm

RGS Springfield 26 January 2019 9.00am - 12.30pm

www.rgsw.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

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

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Education Independent School Open Days

Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my New Year book selection for you to enjoy. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website for primary children in homes and schools. See these

reviews, download the specially written reading activities for these books and Abberley Hall School, Board and day co-ed ages 2 – 13 years buy the books online at www.EdontheWeb.com.

Saturday 2 March Check out Ed’s tweets: @kidsbookreviews – and have fun reading!

Contact 01299 896275 www.abberleyhall.co.uk

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Bredon School, Tewkesbury Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 18 years Thursday 31 January Tuesday 26 February,11am-1pm Contact 01684 293156 www.bredonschool.org Dodderhill, Droitwich Spa Day all girls ages 4 - 16 years Monday 21 to Friday 25 January 9am-4pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9am-6pm Tuesday and Thursday Contact 01905 778290 www.dodderhill.co.uk Hereford Cathedral School, Day co-ed ages 3 – 18 years Wednesday 27 February (Reception Taster Afternoon) Friday 1 March (Junior & Nursery) Contact 01432 363511 www.herefordcs.com King’s St Albans, Worcester Day co-ed ages 4 – 11 years Monday 14 - Friday 18 January Open week King’s Senior, Worcester Day co-ed ages 11 - 18 years Saturday 19 January 9.30am Contact 01905 721742 www.ksw.org.uk Malvern St James, Board and day all girls ages 4 - 18 years Saturday 2 February Contact 01684 892288 www.malvernstjames.co.uk

Armadillo and Hare by Jeremy Strong

(David Fickling Books £9.99) ED SAYS: ‘‘Meet Armadillo and Hare with their Small Tales from the Big Forest. Hare loves many things including picnics on the beach and playing the tuba (with extraordinary consequences) but Armadillo’s overriding passion is cheese sandwiches. Even when he paints pictures they are usually studies of – you’ve guessed, cheese sandwiches! In the forest they meet many other animals such as Jaguar, a beautiful beast, and Giraffe, an elegant creature.

They are all delightful and add to the fun in the forest.”

Tom and Tallulah and the Witches’ Feast by Vivian French (Piccadilly Press £5.99) ED SAYS: “Whoosh! Tallulah Tickle crash-lands on her broomstick – late again – at the latest meeting of the Chumley Charmed Circle. As their apprentice witch, she is showing herself to be a dreadful time-keeper and is becoming notorious for burning cakes. However she is given one final chance and is told to prepare a magnificent meal for the other witches. She realises the nasty Gertrude is trying to trick her but, with the support of her brother Tom, will Tallulah be able to come up with an amazing midnight feast in time?”

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

A Chase in Time by Sally Nicholls (Nosy Crow £6.99)

ED SAYS: “Alex and his sister Ruby love staying with their aunt at Applecott House with its large garden, playroom and their aunt’s pets. In the rambling house there are many interesting artefacts from around the world but Alex’s favourite is an old mirror that hangs in the hall by the stairs.

This mirror is the start of a magical adventure for Alex and Ruby when they fall backwards in time to 1912 and, among other things, find themselves in hot pursuit of some criminals. But will they be able to find their way back to the present?”

The Afterwards by A F Harrold

(Pushkin Press £6.99) ED SAYS: “Ember and Ness live next door to each other and are best friends. They are in the same class at school, they share their lunch and snacks RGS, Worcester and they enjoy doing things together. Suddenly fate Day co-ed ages 2 – 18 years intervenes and Ness is no longer in Ember’s life. Ember’s Saturday 19 January (The Grange father, Harry, is very understanding of her feelings. Ember ages 2-11) 9am-12.30pm is determined to bring Ness back and somehow manages Saturday 26 January (Springfield to make her way into the Afterworld with its darkness ages 2-11) 9am-12.30pm and dangers. She doesn’t want to ever give up on Ness. “ Saturday 12 January (Senior) 9am-12.30pm Ed’s Reading Room is at www.EdontheWeb.com.

Contact 01905 613391 It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who www.rgsw.org.uk

together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating.

You are welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

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Education

A Recipe for Success - The Dodderhill Way! A good dollop of fun, plenty of friends, a measure of kindness and a sprinkling of ambition - give it a good stir and you have the essence of what makes Dodderhill Independent Girls school a unique place to learn.

on-site facilities, including a Forest School, for girls to explore.

Starting with our youngest girls in Pre-Prep, creative development, exploration and adventure are key ingredients for the journey at Dodderhill.

We believe that learning should be challenging and fun; adding a smile and laughter to the mix helps girls grow in confidence and build resilience to face a future full of exciting opportunities.

Growing up can be tough at times and our ethos allows girls to express themselves and their individuality without distraction or fear of judgement. Children develop at different ages and times, but all can thrive in an environment that encourages and nurtures them to be the best they can.

Finding the right school for your daughter can be overwhelming, with a wide range of options available both in state schools and independent schools. Here at Dodderhill we understand that one size does not fit all and we work hard to ensure that girls are happy and stimulated from their very first day with us.

Whether in the classroom or outdoors learning, our small class sizes, averaging 12, allow teachers the time to focus on each girl as an individual and adapt teaching and learning to suit specific needs.

We consider learning to be much more than what can be taught behind a desk in a classroom and we have a range of familiesonline.co.uk

Visiting during our Open Week from 21 to 25 January, will give you a good insight into the dayto-day life for girls at Dodderhill.

Dodderhill: Embrace Learning We hope you will find a school full of happy girls who embrace academic challenge, celebrate each other’s individuality and thrive here.

Please contact Mrs Yvonne Wood, Registrar, should you have any questions or wish to book an appointment to visit. Telephone 01905 778290 or email: admissions@dodderhill.co.uk. Alternatively visit our website www.dodderhill.co.uk for further details.

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

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Education

Developing Life Skills Why should our child join MSJ Prep?

We believe in developing the life skills of the girls from their very first day with us; always mindful of the years ahead of them beyond school and the need to prepare them for the wider world.

Does MSJ Prep provide an after school club?

Wrap-around care is central to the MSJ approach, run by a team of dedicated and qualified Play Leaders. This enables parents the opportunity to drop their children early in the morning and collect them in the evening.

Our inspiration

What does your school specialise in?

MSJ doesn’t produce a ‘type’ of girl. We recognise the importance of allowing each individual to grow and flourish – all routes are equal.

What is on offer outside the classroom?

MSJ Prep has a full enrichment programme, offering around 25 different clubs. All girls do their clubs and homework within the school day.

Every girlgirl is unique, withwith theirtheir own own character, passions and and Every is unique, character, passions idiosyncrasies.

That’s whatwhat makes life atlife Malvern St James so idiosyncrasies.

That’s makes at Malvern St James so enjoyable andand rewarding.

We are inspired by ourby pupils enjoyable rewarding.

Weconstantly are constantly inspired our pupils and support them to have the confidence to excel, love life, and wewe support them to have the confidence to excel, to lovetolife, stand all that believe inshape and shape a wonderful stand up up for for all that theythey believe in and a wonderful future.future.

Be anything, achieve everything

If you would like to arrange a tour of Malvern St James, please contact Admissions on 01684 892288 or by email admissions@malvernstjames.co.uk www.malvernstjames.co.uk

OPEN MORNING 2 FEBRUARY 2019 FEES FROM £2,355 PER TERM

Improving the Number Foundations of Pre-Schoolers A leading child psychologist from Kingston University has produced a series of number games for nurseries and parents which are proven to boost the confidence and ability of pre-school children in maths in just 5 weeks.

Dr Jo Van Herwegen created the games based on her research into the Approximate Number System (ANS), a mechanism used by the brain to differentiate between groups that have more or fewer items in them without counting. The ANS games are based on two foundations - estimation and matching approximate large amounts.

"The activities we've developed are fun, rather than formal lesson plans, but they're based on scientific evidence about the cornerstones of mathematical learning and how to nurture this in young children."

"It's all about the child knowing which number is larger and which is smaller, but not to the exact number" Dr Van Herwegen explained.

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Her research showed that playing these specially-designed games for 10 minutes a day for five weeks improved young children's number foundations, the essential building blocks needed for mathematics. This improvement was still apparent six months later, when the children had started formal education.

To download the free games, visit www.kingston.acc.uk/research/ research-showcase/research-case-studies

To advertise call: 01684 770566

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Located in the shadow of the Cathedral and just a stone’s throw away from ‘Big King’s’, St Alban’s is ideally located and ideal for busy parents. This junior school combines state of the art facilities, a range of outdoor areas and a wealth of opportunities to ensure that the children’s education goes far beyond the classroom.

R EG

ORNIENSIS VIG

King’s St Alban’s School Worcester’s Hidden Gem

IA SCHOLA

Education

Independent education for children aged 4 -11

What makes King’s St Alban’s distinct is that they embrace every child’s individuality, and develop their talents through creative, stimulating lessons and a huge variety of extracurricular activities.

At St Alban’s they pride themselves on ensuring that each child develops a joy of learning and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge that allows them to approach education with energy and enthusiasm and their future with confidence.

King’s St Alban’s is an inspirational place for children not only to achieve academically, but to learn the vital life skills that will help them to succeed both at school and throughout the rest of their life.

Open Week:

If you would like to know more about joining King’s St Alban’s please call our Registrar, Mrs Louise Robins, on 01905 363592 or email lrobins@ksw.org.uk for more information.

The King’s School, Worcester was recently named in “The Sunday Times Schools Guide 2019” as one of the top 150 independent secondary schools in the country.

It ranked 124th in the national table, an impressive thirty nine places higher than last year and was the leading independent school in Worcestershire. The guide, “Parent Power”, identifies the highest-achieving schools in the UK, ranked by their most recent examination results.

R EG

IA SCHOLA

www.ksw.org.uk/taster

ORNIENSIS VIG

King’s Doubles Up With 39 Places And 39 Steps

14 -18 January

WORCESTER’S LEADING INDEPENDENT SECONDARY SCHOOL

Just as impressive, however was the outstanding annual performance by the talented King’s pupils of “The 39 Steps performed to packed houses in the Schools own John Moore Theatre, marking the end of another massively successful term at King’s.

Headmaster, Matthew Armstrong said, “Our school is about so much more than just academic success. This league table result is great for the school and is testament to the hard work and dedication of staff and pupils. Academic success is very important, but true success is ensuring that all our pupils are happy, that they develop a life-long love of learning and fulfil their true potential both in and out of the classroom.”

Visit our website www.ksw.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Open Morning: Saturday 19 January

www.ksw.org.uk

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

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Parenting

Cyberbullying: What You And Your Child Need to Know Today’s children spend a lot of time online. How can we make sure they are safe? According to Bullying UK’s national survey, 56% of children surveyed said they had been bullied online, and 42% felt unsafe.

By Claire Winter Cyberbullying is defined as the use of digital technologies with an intent to offend, humiliate, threaten, harass or abuse somebody. This kind of harassment can happen anywhere your child is online, class Whatsapp groups, gaming platforms, apps, and social media.

One of the main problems with bullying online is that it can happen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and it can go viral very quickly. If it’s happening, children can’t escape it; we need to educate them on how to deal with it and to ensure they know to tell a trusted adult if it is happening to them.

The earlier parents start to have conversations with their kids about being online, the better. We need to guide them and teach them about responsible online activity.

Internet Matters encourages parents to talk to their children about who they want to be online, what they share and how long they spend on the Internet. They also advise taking an active interest in what your child is looking at and frequently check up on them. Other tips include making sure there are no phones/devices in the bedroom at night and putting Wifi on a timer to limit the time your kids spend online.

If your child or someone you know is being cyberbullied make sure you get some help.

Bullying UK (www.bullying.co.uk) has some great resources and a helpline at 0808 800 2222. Internet Matters (www.internetmatters.org) also has some useful tips and videos that you can share with your children.

Families top tips on how to stay safe from cyberbullying.

Don’t respond - never respond to a rude comment. Bullies only bully to get a response.

Screenshot - take a picture of the bullying behaviour, so you can report it if the behaviour escalates.

Talk about it - make sure you tell a trusted adult or friend. They can give you advice and support you if you are being bullied.

Block it - block the user who is bothering you and report it. This is important even if this person is someone you know, or a so-called ‘friend.’

Report it - if someone at school is harassing or bullying you make sure you tell a teacher. If it is a stranger or a person from out of school, make sure you tell your parents.

Be private - make sure your privacy settings are set to private so people that you don’t know can’t contact you. You wouldn’t talk to a stranger on the street, so why do it online?

You can be traced – explain that children that misbehave online by posting abuse or threats can be tracked and traced by the police. Every time you visit a website or make a posting, your Internet service provider has a record of your activity. Even if you create an anonymous email address, you can still be found.

Keep passwords safe - remind children to protect their passwords and not share them with others. Tell them to use a combination of lowercase and uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

This will reduce the risk of being hacked.

Log out - if using a public computer at school, a library or even at a friend’s house, be sure to sign out of the web service you are using.

Think before you type - remember the impact your words can have on others. Once you send or write something online you can’t get it back.

Remind your children to ask themselves: would I be happy for everyone I know to see this?

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Parenting The Parenting Apart Programme Helping Parents to put their Children First Separation and divorce can be a challenging and upsetting time for all involved. The relationship has ended between the adults, but their role as parents has not stopped.

It is important to make sure parents and children get the support they need. Although there may be a lot going on and the mental and emotional demands of conflict, separation or divorce can leave people feeling overwhelmed.

The Parenting Apart Programme will explore the unique challenges faced by families and will help them to identify practical strategies which will support them to navigate this specific phase in their life prioritising the emotional and mental well-being of the child/ren and giving them a voice through family breakdown.

supportive environment to communicate as parents, to form a respectful Parent Working Relationship, and to compile a Parent Working Agreement (PWA) which outlines all details for the child’s emotional wellbeing.

The Parenting Apart Programme offers: • An initial 4-week programme.

• One to one meetings with a family consultant to establish trust and develop a positive approach.

• Joint meetings enable both parents to begin communicating together properly in a supportive environment.

• Agreements jointly developed collaboratively that can be filed alongside Court orders if required.

• Reviews and ongoing support to help you through the first How it works? steps of moving on.

The Parenting Apart Programme (PAP) facilitated by the Claire Field Consultancy team is • Resident parent re-establishing parenting relationship with the offering you a non-resident parent.

• Initial one to one meetings prior to entering the Parenting Apart Programme can be held for an initial assessment.

• The programme prioritises the emotional and physical wellbeing of the children.

Tailored, personal and consistent support, helping and supporting parents when they need it the most. www.clairefieldconsultancy.com The Parenting Apart Programme (PAP) has been specifically produced to support you with hands on support and advice through an initial 4-week programme.

Children have an amazing capacity to cope with all sorts of challenges if the adults in their lives remain constant and consistent – these are the two main ingredients in the Parenting Apart Programme.

Please visit the website www.clairefieldconsultancy.com to view parent testimonials and for full details on the programme. Or contact the office directly on 01562 700447. Parents can self-refer and the team will be very happy to assist you with any enquiries.

Work from home: be the next editor of Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

Would you like the flexibility of working from home and never miss your child’s 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 Hereford & Worcester Magazine 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 email Diane: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

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Parenting

Understanding your Child’s Behaviour and Supporting Good Patterns of Communication As parents we are all familiar with the odd tantrum, meltdown and fighting with siblings. Dealing with these situations can feel exhausting. It may not be until later in the day that your child talks to you about something that has been worrying them or has upset them during the day. Often things can feel clearer as the reason for the behaviour becomes understood. As humans, behaviour is our way of communicating; a baby may cry when she is hungry, just like an adult may yawn when he is bored at work. Adults and children communicate something through their behaviour every day, even if they are not aware of it.

By Dr Elise Kearney Although children are learning all of the time they will sometimes have trouble communicating the way they are feeling.

This may be because they do not know the words to describe how they are feeling or understand what they are feeling. At these times, children may act out their feelings or needs. In this way, tantrums or challenging behaviour serves an important communication tool for children. The purpose of the behaviour may be to get someone's attention, to stop an activity they don’t like, or just because it feels good.

Understanding your childs behaviour Children displaying challenging behaviour are sending the message that something is not right or that their needs are not being met in some shape or form. Tricky behaviour may be due to a whole host of different reasons: being hungry; scared; hurt; tired; bored; uncomfortable or in pain; sad or angry. Depending on their age, children may struggle to understand what they want or need, especially younger children. When children find it hard to communicate their feelings they may behave in ways that get them into trouble such as risky or destructive behaviour. When children feel unsafe or out of control they may behave in ways to make them feel in control. A child who has tried several times to communicate what they need, but whose needs remain unmet, will often use challenging behaviour as a way of sending a very loud message. Understanding what your child's behaviour will put you in a better position to respond effectively.

How can we support children to communicate their emotions more effectively?

As parents it is easy to fall into the trap of trying to 'fix' things in childrens lives. When faced with a childs strong emotions

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there can be an instinctive drive to make a child (and ourselves!) feel better by taking away these strong emotions. In an attempt to 'fix' things we can unwittingly dismiss the emotions and try to move on before the child is ready. Children can feel misunderstood and confused by the strong emotions that they are feeling. They may grow to believe that strong emotions are to be feared, are dangerous or are to be ignored. This can lead to raised levels of anxiety and difficulties understanding, identifying and managing their emotions as they get older.

Making space for a childs emotions communicates to them that they are valued and how they feel matters. It can be hard as parents to listen, purely to listen, rather than to solve a situation. However, in that moment that you provide a nonjudgemental and empathic listening space to your child they can feel deeply understood. Research tells us that this has the knock on effect of raising childrens self-esteem, confidence, improving family relationships and consequently improving behaviour.

Conversely, when this non-judgemental space is not available to a child they may learn that emotions are to be feared, hidden or that they are unmanageable. Children may begin to believe that what they feel doesn't matter and is not valued.

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Parenting We can provide a non-judgemental, empathic listening space whereby we refrain from engaging our 'adult brain' to 'fix' the situation. Initially, we can do this with comments such as: "that sounds tricky, what's been happening?"

"That sounds like it upset you, tell me all about it" "It sounds like you have had a difficult day, what's been going on?" "it seems like you're in a bit of a muddle, what's happening?"

Communicating through Praise and Rewards How can we encourage children to use positive behaviour to communicate more effectively? A good rule of thumb is that the behaviour that you praise and reward will always be seen more frequently than the behaviour you ignore. Using praise and rewards builds a strong relationship with your child and children communicate more effectively with a strong relationship at their foundation.

In this moment, you are communicating to your child that you are there for them and you are interested and curious as to what is going on in their world. We might use language to help the child know that they are being listened to without judgement and empathically. You can do this by repeating back to your child what you have heard, for example: Child:"…and then the teacher shouted at me and she was cross that I didn't understand" Parent: "So your teacher shouted at you and it felt like she was cross that you didn't understand?"

Catch your child doing the things that you are pleased about and want to see more. This might be things like: • Getting dressed by themselves • Brushing her teeth • Reading/looking at their books • Playing quietly • Playing with siblings nicely • Sitting quietly • Getting into the car nicely • Putting on shoes nicely • Being helpful (make sure to create situations where your child can be helpful, even if you don’t really need help!)

This type of communication will encourage your child to explore the emotions associated with this experience. It is helpful then to validate your childs emotions and support the development of their emotional language: "that sounds scary when the teacher shouted, I wonder if that made you feel frightened?"

It is deeply affirming and calming for a child to know that their emotions have been understood.

Through the day, you can comment on emotions: "I wonder if that has made you feel angry" "It feels like that has made you really sad?" "that must have felt very frightening?"

By supporting your child in this way you are: • Developing your childs emotional language • Supporting them in understanding their own emotions • Helping your child know that emotions are not scary or dangerous • Helping your child to process and manage emotions • Supporting your child in learning to 'self-regulate' (calm themselves) • Communicating that you value every part of your child Sit together with your child and verabally acknowledge the difficult emotions. In this way, your child knows that a parent or caregiver understands how difficult it feels to be them in that moment.

One of the most effective ways of using this praise is to 'label' your praise, for example: "Thank you for helping your brother, it makes me really happy when you are kind to your brother" In addition to these verbal praise techniques, you can create a treats ‘grab bag’; put in small items that you know your child will be happy to receive (works best with things you can keep rather than sweeties, for example lego figures or similar). When you catch them doing something you’re really pleased about, let them chose one item from the grab bag. This is a very powerful way in which to praise positive behaviour. Remember to be most effective, praise the behaviour immediately.

When children feel valued and have their needs met, often there is no longer a need to use challenging behaviour to communicate.

By helping children to find positive ways to communicate their needs to others, children learn important social and problemsolving skills that will help them throughout their life.

Sometimes when there have been special family circumstances such as: a death in the family, illness in the family, a move of house or school: being looked after outside of the family, communication can become more difficult to understand. If you are feeling stuck in an unhelpful communication pattern with your child, don’t feel afraid to ask for some support.

Dr Elise Kearney runs a clinic at The Therapies Centre, The Fold, Bransford, Worcester and can be contacted by email at elisekearney@btinternet.com or call 07713755224. Find out more about the service she offers at: www.thefold.org.uk/natural-therapy-centre/consultant-child-family-psychology/ A mother of four and Chartered Consultant Child and Family Clinical Psychologist, Dr Kearney 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).

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Holidays

Plan A Holiday With A Difference

Are you fed up with package or resort-based holidays? Why not try some of these quirky suggestions for a short break or alternative summer holiday destination. By Claire Winter Go on a Cretan Adventure This beautiful island is a fabulous family holiday destination with an ancient culture, excellent cuisine, and all-but-guaranteed sunshine. Kids will love learning about the island’s past on a simulated archeological dig and will learn to care about its future too when visiting a sea turtle nesting habitat with a local conservationist to hear about the threats these endangered species face. Other days are spent trying diving, paddle boarding, snorkelling to shipwrecks and even Cretan dancing, all while staying in a beach-side apartment with a swimming pool. Prices start from £899 per adult and £849 per child, including seven nights’ B&B accommodation, one lunch, one dinner, and guided activities. Depart 29 June, 27 July or 17 August 2019. More info at www.familiesworldwide.co.uk Hit the Road Why not discover Europe in a camper van? The UK’s largest VW camper van hire company Campervantastic is based in Forest Hill, south-east London, just over an hour from the Channel Tunnel and south-east ferry ports. Staff are experienced in catering for a variety of European adventure tours; you could explore the Alps, cycle in the Dordogne or explore vineyards in Bordeaux. You can hire out the relevant equipment, such as bike racks and wine storage to suit your plans. Some of the campers have electrically powered popup roofs, bike racks, comfortable beds, folding picnic table, satnavs, and media ports. They also have a Mercedes Marco Polo campervan for hire and will have the brand new Grand California Motorhome available in the Spring of 2019. Prices start from £910 a week in July. More info at www.campervantastic.co.uk

Try Treehouse Life The Garden Village in Slovenia is a beautiful eco-village of treehouses, glamping tents, Finnish Sauna, Massage Pavillion and a garden, which supplies the on-site restaurant with fruit and vegetables. The tree houses are raised cabins with two levels and have indoor nets to lounge about on, kitchenettes and bathrooms. The wooden-floor pier tents are by a stream and fishpond, while glamping tents have a mezzanine level, bathrooms, TV and hot tub. The picture-postcard Lake Bled, which offers a vast array of activities to suit all ages, is just a short walk away. Treehouses are expensive in peak season (€360 a night) but tree tents which sleep four and have shared bathrooms/toilet facilities, are less at €260 a night. More info at www.gardenvillagebled.com

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Holidays Established 1992 Fully Qualified Instructors Specialised Classes 4 – 16 years Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced

Train with Sensei Jags Shoker, 3rd Dan

Choose Quirky Locations There are many quirky locations from castles to islands that offer accommodation in the UK and further afield. You could try a fantastic converted Railway Carriage in west Somerset. The carriage is 100 years old and has recently been refurbished. Once upon a time, it was a Great Western Railway camping coach. Today it sits in a quiet siding at the Blue Anchor station on the West Somerset Railway line. It is a working railway - so guests beware! But situation wise, everything is on the doorstep, and it's a short walk to Minehead's sand and shingle beach. The carriage sleeps six and costs start at £715 a week in the summer. More info at www.lovecottages.co.uk

Discover Belgium and Holland These family-friendly destinations offer clean, wide beaches and an easy journey time. They are a short flight from all major airports or a 35-minute tunnel crossing away, giving you the freedom of hitting the road whenever you want. Both of these delightful countries are small, varied and easy to get around. Little Clogs Holidays offer baby and toddlerfriendly breaks in holiday parks and glamping farm holidays. Families can explore a wide range of toddlerfriendly theme parks, water parks, and zoos as well as magical woodland trails, sand dunes and playgrounds on the beach. Prices start at £ 818 per family for a week in the summer holidays. More at www.little-clogs-holidays.co.uk How about a House Swap?

A house swap can be a great way of exploring the world and cutting holiday costs.

You lend your home to another family, while you live in theirs. All you have to do is buy your flights or ferry ticket. You do need to clean and tidy your home so another family can live it. You also have to empty some cupboards and drawers for their clothes and leave a manual about the house. You can negotiate to swap cars and look after each other's pets too. Try Love Home Swap (www.lovehomeswap. com) or Home Exchange (www.homeexchange.com).

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Monday: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Droitwich Spa 5.00 – 6.00pm Wed & Fri: The Parish Centre, Barnt Green 5.30 – 6.30pm Friday: Parkside Middle School, Bromsgrove 3.40 – 4.40pm Saturday: St Peters RC First School, Bromsgrove 9.15–10.15 am Special offer 5 FREE www.kombatkids.com lessons

Call: 07730 899722 register@kombatkids.com

Outdoor Winter Fun Ideas Have a winter bonfire in the garden or use a fire pit or chiminea, wrap up warm and roast some marshmallows.

Explore a nearby woodland and build a camp.

Set up a scavenger hunt, create clues for the kids to follow or get them to design one for you to follow.

Go ice skating at an outdoor rink.

Feed the birds or go bird watching.

You could even make your own birdfeeders.

Go on a winter picnic. Take blankets, sandwiches and hot soup in a thermos.

Make snow paint. If we’re lucky enough to get a downfall this year, you can add food colouring to a spray bottle, get out in the garden and turn the white stuff multi-coloured!

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

13

What’s On

Please check with the venue in case details have changed

Big Garden Birdwatch

The Monday Night Group: Charity Panto

Theatre... 25th Jan - 2nd Feb 2019 Image: Andy Hay RSPB

Civic Hall Stourport On Severn

The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch takes place from 26 to 28 January and is the largest wildlife survey in the world. The information collected helps monitor bird species in the UK, and is great fun for children. To take part, you need to watch the birds in your garden or local park for just one hour at some point over the three days and report your results to the RSPB. You can request a FREE Big Garden Birdwatch pack from the RSPB which includes a bird identification chart and advice to help you attract wildlife to your garden. To make it fun, challenge your children to see who can spot the most birds. Take a bike ride to a local park to look for birds, or make a day trip out of it and spot birds in a new place. More info at www.rspb.org.uk

Celebrate The Power Of Telling Stories National Storytelling Week - 26 January to 2 February - marks a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories, from conversations during which we re-tell events in our lives, to watching our favourite television shows.

Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs firstly to be a good speaker and listener.

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Artrix, School Drive,B Bromsgrove B60 1AX NOW OOK ONLINE 01527 577330 www.artrix.co.uk

www.mondaynightgroup.org Robin Hood and the Revolting Peasants @mngpantomime Tel:Robin, 07593 Little 175776 Join John, Maid Marionwww.facebook.com/mngstourport and of course Poster Design By: luna magic designs Registered charity: 510879 Friar Tuck as Oddsocks take on some of their hardest challenges to date. 13 January 7pm.

Mimi and the Mountain Dragon High up in the snowy mountains of Switzerland the villagers of Dorta bang their drums, blow their horns and ring the bells to keep the fearsome Mountain Dragon away. But this year is different.

21 February 2pm

Evesham Arts Centre Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR114QH 01386 48883 www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Sleeping Beauty the Pantomime Phoenix Theatre Group will take you into the fairy tale story we know so well. A traditional panto for all the family with all the fun, songs and silliness people have come to love from Evesham’s premier Pantomime Society. 23-27 January 7.30pm (Also a 2.30pm matinee on Saturday and Sunday) Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcs, WR14 3HB 01684 892277, www.malvern-theatres.co.uk Chinese New Year Extravaganza join the celebration as Chinese New Year comes to Malvern with a unique and exciting show of cultural spectacle.

23 February 2.30pm and 7.30pm.

Above all though, storytelling is fun. Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or telling our own, inventing and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds - both real and imaginary.

The Monday Night Group The Civic Theatre Hall, Stourport-on-Severn 07593 175776 www.mondaynightgroup.org Red Riding Hood Join in the fun filled family entertainment and do your bit for charity at the same time. The Monday Night Group is a registered charity and donates its profits to local community groups. 25 January - 2 February

National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, schools, hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes. To find a local event or to look through its extensive archive visit www.sfs.org.uk

Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

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EXPLORER TODAY!

Please mention you saw this event in Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

Malvern The Courtyard: Theatre: Snow Teddy’s White Seaside Holiday

All Things Wild: Animal Antics Susannah and the Sunflower Susannah dreams of an amazing flower garden and when the Wizard thanks her for looking after his cow by giving her three magical seeds, her dream starts to grow. 16 February 11.00am

What’s On

The Commandery: Living History

Museums...

MORE WORKSHOPS — TRAILS AND WALKS — QUIZZES — DINO D ONLINE

Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Half-Term Fun Visit the historic houses and also take part in children’s trails around the museum grounds during February half-term.

19- 24 February

familiesonline.co.uk RAFTS — ANIMALS —Days INDOOR Out... AND OUTDOOR DINOSAUR All Things Wild Nature Centre, Station Road, Honeybourne, Nr Evesham, WR11 7QZ 01386 833083, www.allthingswild.co.uk Wild Winter Weekends 19-20, 26-27 January and 2-3 February Animal Antics 16- 24 February An all-weather attraction with a wide range of animals, a soft play area, outside play area, indoor tractors, animals encounter room, cafe, new barefoot walk, dinosaurs and much more.

l Things Wild Nature Centre, Station Road, Honeybourne, WR11 7Q Mark Thompson’s Spectacular Science Show You think science is boring? Think again; this is science like you have never seen it before!

Explore the strange and magical properties of matter with fireballs, fire tornadoes and explosive chemical reactions. 19 February 2.30 pm

01386 833083

The Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Pinocchio This magical story leaps off the page and onto the stage in this high energy musical of Pinocchio’s extraordinary adventures. Packed with comedy, audience interaction, and a host of new songs guaranteed to have you singing along.

20 January 1.30pm and 4.30pm.

The Commandery, Sidbury, Worcester WR1 2HU 01905 361821 www.worcestershire.gov.uk/ museums/info/1/the_commandery Living History at The Commandery Experience 2000 years of history from Vikings to Victorians. More than 150 re-enactors will bring the past to life with living history encampments, military displays, crafts and vintage vehicles. Part of the Love Worcester Heritage Festival; 16-17 February 10:00am - 5:00pm

www.allthingswild.co.uk

Little Owl Farm Park, Owl Hill Lane, Dunhampton, DY13 9SS 01905 620325, www.littleowlfarmpark.co.uk A variety of animals, petting area, soft play, pedal tractors, nature trail, cafe and picnic area.

National Trust 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW 01905 371006 Lantern Walk 2019 Join us at dusk to walk a beautiful 1.5-mile route around the grounds of National Trust Croome court and help us light up the night sky. 9 February Book online

Severn Valley Railway, Kidderminster Station, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, 1QX 01299 403816, www.svr.co.uk WR1 3ED 01905 611427, Special Half-term Events www.worcesterlive.co.uk 16- 24 February The Amazing Bubble Man Louis Pearl has Berrington Hall, near Leominster, been thrilling audiences for over 30 years with Worcestershire Wildlife Trust, Lower Herefordshire, HR6 0DW 01568 615721 the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles.

Smite Farm, Smite Hill, Hindlip, Worcester, WR3 Tom Thumb and Thumbelina Trail Step 17 February 11.30am and 2pm.

8SZ 01905 754919 www.worcswildlifetrust.co.uk back in time and enjoy this traditional tale as you Snow White, Rose Red, Bear Brown Half-Term Activities complete the quest around the grounds Sisters, twins, best friends – have lived in the See website for more details.

16-24 February 10.00am-4.00pm. forest since they were Babes in the Wood.

Brought up by their hardworking Mother to be kind, caring and forest fluent... if sometimes a little over enthusiastic in their deeds!

Book the kids in to Wild Explorers Holiday Club at All Things Wild Nature Centre, 23 February 11am. near Evesham from the 18 to 22 February. Allow the kids to let their hair down

If You Do One Thing This February Half-Term... and go wild in a fantastic environment.

The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk A fun, action packed holiday club includes lunch, drinks and snacks. There is lots to Teddy’s Seaside Holiday Eddy the Teddy is see and do, from animal and reptile encounters to messy play and nature walks. getting very excited because he’s going off on What better way for your child to spend half term, than getting some fresh air and holiday to the seaside with his best friend Sammy fun!

Ragdoll, Sammy is hoping to have a nice relaxing time but with Eddy the Teddy, an adventure is Booking and pre-payment required. Book for any combination of days or all five, the never far away. 19 January 11am, choice is yours! Call 01386 833083 to book. www.allthingswild.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

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All Things Wild Nature Centre Station Road, Honeybourne, Near Evesham, Worcestershire. WR11 7QZ 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk

Ofsted

Action-packed childcare this

registered

February

Half Term

If you’re looking for school holiday ideas that keep your child active, where they can make new friends, build confidence and learn skills all while having lots of fun, then look no further!

For children aged 4 -14, Aspire Active Camps is running a whole week of sports and activities this February half term.

18th - 22nd February

Our number one aim is to ensure your child has fun. Safety is paramount and we go that extra mile as an Ofsted registered provider to give you peace of mind in knowing that your child is cared for in the best environment possible.

Open from 8am-6pm

Hagley

Hagley High School

We provide fantastic early booking offers, in addition to discount offers and a loyalty scheme to our valued customers.

As we are Ofsted registered you are also able to pay via childcare vouchers.

Bromsgrove

South Bromsgrove High School

Worcester

Nunnery Wood High School

Alvechurch

Alvechurch Middle School and Crown Meadow First School

Early Bird Offer

£17 per day

Action-packed, Ofsted registered childcare throughout the school holidays for children aged 4-14.

Book before 5pm on Friday 1st February

Our Hagley camp will be running Multi Sports Academy, Dance and Stage Beatz Academy and, for 12-14 year olds, Active Leaders.

Taking place at our Bromsgrove camp will be Multi Sports Academy, Gym Beatz Academy and Active Leaders.

Our Worcester camp and Alvechurch camps will be running Multi Sports Academy and Active Leaders.

A standard day at our camps is 8am – 4pm, however, we also offer Xtra time which runs from 4pm – 6pm.

8am-4pm

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

If you want to join us at Active Camps for an action-packed school holiday, visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979.

Xtra Time available up to 6pm. See website for full details. Terms and conditions apply,

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