FamiliesWarwickshireNovDec 18

Warwickshire

IN THIS ISSUE Working from Home: The Pros and Cons Jacqueline Wilson Interview Christmas: Where to See Santa

Issue 44 November/December 2018

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2 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

13/02/2018 10:49

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Issue 44 | November/December 2018 | Families Warwickshire

In this issue 4 Parenting

16 What's On

6 Jacqueline Wilson Interview

7 Clubs & Classes 8 Education 14 Where's Santa?

Contact details Claire Jones on 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Cover by Liittle Beanies Photography www.littlebeanies.co.uk Design by www.peninsula-design.co.uk

Next issue: January/February 2019 Booking deadline: Friday 7 December

14 All content ©2018 Families Warwickshire Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine for parents, covering Stratfordon-Avon and Warwick Districts with around 20,000 copies. Towns covered include Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, Leamington Spa and Kenilworth, plus Studley, Alcester, Bidford, Henley-in-Arden, Wellesbourne, Welford-on-Avon, Shipston-on-Stour, Southam and lots of the smaller villages in between.

Advertise with us and reach 40,000+ local parents and carers Families Warwickshire 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 Warwickshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Warwickshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Warwickshire; our distributors, 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.

Local primary schools put the FUN in their fundraising Pupils, parents and teachers of two rural primary schools in Warwickshire recently put their best feet forward to raise vital capital to fund playground and sports equipment. A passionate group of volunteer parents, teachers and friends of All Saints Leek Wootton and Burton Green Academies (the Green Leek Federation) have taken it upon themselves to raise £25,000 per school through sport.

The Green Leek Run - a multi-terrain 10.5k race through the Warwickshire countryside - was held on a wet Sunday morning in October, starting in Burton Green and finishing near All Saints in Leek Wootton. Now in its third year, the race has grown in size and popularity. This year, 430 runners and 70 volunteers took part and raised over £8,000 for the two schools. All Saints pupils were also keen to be part of the fundraising action so, on a sunny Friday morning just a week later, they took part in their own ‘Mini-Green Leek 10k’ at school. 140 pupils participated and collectively ran a fantastic 255.4km!

Talking to Young Children About War this Remembrance Day Remembrance Day this year will be on Sunday 11 November and will be especially significant as it will mark 100 years since the original agreement to end fighting during the First World War in 1918, also known as Armistice Day. Accordingly, you can expect that there will be a great deal of media coverage given to this significant commemoration and your child may be prompted to ask you questions.

Discussing war with children can be quite difficult. Recognising this, CBeebies has produced a short animation, simply titled ‘Poppies’ to help convey the notion of remembrance in a way that resonates with a young audience. It is a really beautiful piece to watch and would be a great way to introduce any discussion of Remembrance Day. The 2 minute film follows a bunny who starts off playing in a meadow, which then becomes a WW1 battlefield.

The film can be viewed on the CBeebies website at www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies

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Parenting Hummus as a starter, followed by our new 5 A Day Bolognese served with Broccoli & Carrots, and an Apple Crumble and Vanilla Ice Cream to finish.”

All their starters, mains and desserts are the same price and every main includes a choice of one of their sides, with secondary dishes at £1.50 each. This allows mum or dad to decide on the side - for example, Salad, Mash Potato, Broccoli & Carrot or House Fries - and it isn’t a bank-buster if, as a treat, the child is allowed chips AND a salad.

Thumbs Up for Children’s Menu For some time, Oakman Inns - the pub group which operates The Globe in Warwick, The Four Alls in Welford-on-Avon and The Beech House in Solihull - has been concerned that the limited choices on children’s menus might be discouraging young diners from trying new dishes by offering them little more than chicken nuggets and chips.

They asked over 1,000 parents with children aged two to 12 what they would like to

see on a kids’ menu which was followed by tasting days with their young customers.

They combined these insights with what they know from tens of thousands of visiting children who have ordered from their pubs in the past.

The results, says Oakman Inns’ Chef Director, Ross Pike, spells the end of what he calls “Beige on a Plate.” He explained: “As well as offering healthy options that will go down well with parents and their children, we’ve tried to create family-friendly pricing with a “Formule” of three courses and one of our six side orders for just £9. That could be Carrot & Pepper Sticks with Red Pepper & Garlic

Working from Home: The Pros and Cons So you want to work from home? For many parents the chance to work from home on a regular basis is the Holy Grail. Not only does it cut down on endless hours spent commuting and travel bills, but it means you are around for your family in case of an emergency.

Yet working from home isn’t for everyone. If you’re in a sector where working from home is possible or you are considering freelancing or running your own business from home, you need to be honest with yourself about whether the pros outweigh the potential cons.

Ask yourself some questions. Do you work best as part of a team, bouncing ideas off each other? It is possible to exchange ideas with people via Instant Messenger and technology is enabling people who work remotely to have virtual colleagues in their home office, but if face to face contact is important to you, then you might find working from home a struggle. You may be able to mitigate this, of course, through creating or joining a local business network or ensuring you get out regularly to meetings or other events - or even just to walk the dog!

The advantages of working from home are significant. In addition to those mentioned above, the wellbeing of most parents would be enhanced by not having to deal with rush hour traffic or train delays and the anxiety of not getting to school or nursery pick up on time. One of the worst nightmares for many parents are the days when their child wakes up sick and they have to frantically ring round friends and family to get cover while they go to an important meeting. Not having to deal with this can hugely lower stress levels.

Once you have decided if homeworking is

for you, you need to consider what you need to work successfully from home.

Try to have a separate work space

It is good, if possible, to draw a line between home and work so you can close the door on work both mentally and physically at the end of the day. Having a separate space a room, an outdoor building etc - creates the sense of ‘going to work’. It also means that your work papers are kept separate and away from small hands! Alternatively, if you don't have a separate space, you can still create the feeling of going to work by walking round the block before you start work. You may, of course, need to go out to drop off children in any event before you start your working day.

Make sure you have the technology you need

The basics are likely to be a computer, good phone, WiFi connectivity and a printer. Bear in mind that you are likely to have very little technical support so it is vital to have a back-up if the computer stops working and a solution if the internet goes down, for instance, a local library or nearby cafe with WiFi.

To encourage children to try new flavours and ingredients, Oakman Inns has introduced a new Sweet Potato Hash dish with rocket, avocado, feta, toasted pumpkin seeds and tzatziki. Ross Pike added: “It’s all about keeping a balance, which is why we’ve also left some firm favourites on the menu such as Beef Burgers, Portobello Mushroom Cottage Pie, as well as their own Sunday Roast and Breakfast menus plus a variety of hot and cold drinks.”

On the back of every kid’s menu there’s a games activity sheet to keep young minds busy - and to encourage them to get outdoors and active, they have the chance to win a high-ropes climbing experience in partnership with Go Ape for a family of four. www.oakmaninns.co.uk

don't have regular sleep patterns. If you are working from home while other colleagues are in the office, ensure that you are visible by attending selected social events and meetings and keeping up with people in the office as much as possible.

Co-working space

If you are not sure about homeworking, but need to work closer to home, you could consider using a co-working space or creating your own local hub with other homeworkers in your area. Alternatively, you could consider homeworking for part of the week to get the best of both worlds.

As with everything, it’s advisable to know yourself and approach different ways of working with your eyes as open as possible. Sometimes though, it takes a bit of experimentation to know what works best for you. Compromises may be involved.

Ultimately, it is only you who can judge what is best for your family’s circumstances - and, of course, as with all things parenting, those circumstances may change with time!

Mandy Garner is Editor of Workingmums. co.uk. Workingmums.co.uk advertises homeworking opportunities and offers tons of advice on how to set up your own business and different ways of working, including case studies in a variety of sectors.

Create a routine

Some people like to do the difficult calls or tasks early in the day to get them out of the way and to kick start the day. Take regular breaks, do some exercise and get out and see people. Let people know your working hours and let neighbours and family know you are working and not lounging about at home.

Get Good Childcare

Employers may stipulate childcare if you are working from home. In any event, it is very stressful trying to work from home with small children, particularly if they

4 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

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Managing Christmas and Holidays After Separation The run up to Christmas can be stressful enough without worrying about where your children are going to be over the holiday period!

However, in countless households across the country, this is exactly what is happening!

It doesn’t have to be that way.

Whilst there is no standard arrangement for children seeing both parents, fairness dictates that special occasions are shared so that everyone enjoys time with the children. Often Christmas Day is alternated and so if you have Christmas Day, the other parent has Boxing Day and the children get two Christmas Days, with two lots of family and presents! The following year, the time is reversed. However, that arrangement does not work for all and so it is a case of trying to make arrangements that fit with the individual circumstances.

like to intervene unless necessary and there is the cost and stress to take into account! Parents are expected to be the grown-ups in the situation!

Contact Alison Rolf, Davidson Mahon Solicitors to discuss your circumstances and we can try to find the best way forward for you.

Fixed fee interviews are available at times and locations to suit you, and may help to show you what your options are and try to help reach agreement without excessive cost or stress.

Parenting

Parenting Quote “Before I got married I had six theories about raising children; now, I have six children and no theories.�

John Wilmot, 2nd Earl of Rochester (1647-1680)

Alison Rolf, Family Legal Executive, specialising in all aspects of family law being divorce, financial provision on divorce, children, cohabitation and pre and post cohabitation/ marriage arrangements.

Contact Alison on 01926 357555 or email alison@davidsonmahon.co.uk

Please contact me on 01926 357555 to have a no obligation telephone conversation. I offer fixed fee arrangements as well as evening/ weekend appointments if you prefer at no extra cost.

It is always best if there is agreement over the arrangements and Davidson Mahon Solicitors can help with the options. Sometimes, it takes someone outside the situation to see a more common sense approach! Mediation may be attempted and, as a last resort, an application may be made to the Court for an order setting out what is to happen, but the Court does not

I am a Consultant Legal Executive with Davidson Mahon Solicitors based at Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth.

E: alison@davidsonmahon.co.uk www.davidsonmahon.co.uk

Davidson Mahon Solicitors are a small, niche firm based in Warwickshire that offers a personal service with friendly and approachable qualified legal professionals. We offer affordable fixed fees and free home visits.

We can advise on family matters including divorce, financial provision on divorce, children, cohabitation and pre and post cohabitation/marriage arrangements.

We can also advise on Wills, powers of attorney, trusts, probate, estate administration and Court of Protection applications.

Please contact us today for a no-obligation telephone discussion.

T: 01926 357555 E: office@davidsonmahon.co.uk

www.davidsonmahon.co.uk

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01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 5

Interview it is like to be a child. I mean, ask me what happened or how I felt about something a couple of years ago and my mind is a complete blank, but ask me what I was worried about when I was nine, say, and I remember entirely. It's just a happy trick of nature that I can take myself back.

What advice would you give to aspiring writers, young or old?

Amaya’s mum, Harrow I always suggest aspiring writers read lots to enrich their imagination and increase their vocabulary and try and get into a regular writing habit. Maybe keep a diary - just so you learn to write even when you don't feel like it!

When did you first become a writer?

Emily, age 10, Sevenoaks Well, by the time I was fifteen I had written what was - at least in length - a full book.

It wasn't very good though! It was about two sisters, Margot was about fifteen, the narrator, and the sister was about eighteen.

They had a car and went on a drive through France and Spain and got boyfriends! It wasn't the most inspiring work!

Beaker’s Back!

Families Magazine is lucky enough to have secured an exclusive interview with Dame Jacqueline Wilson in which our readers and their children ask her some of their most burning questions about her new book and her life as a writer.

Dame Jacqueline Wilson is arguably Britain’s favourite contemporary children’s author. She has over one hundred published books to her name, most of which deal with the often troubling and unvarnished realities of being a real-life child or parent.

First published in 1991, Tracy Beaker quickly became Jacqueline’s most well-known character. Now, over a decade after her last literary appearance, the fiery, former fosterkid is back in new book My Mum Tracy Beaker, and while she’s now mature and mother to Jess, she’s still the same Tracy readers know and love.

Why do you think Tracy is one of your most popular characters?

Harbinder, age 7, Croydon I think because she's naughty! She has reason for her bad behaviour, of course, and she's naughty but she's not spiteful, she's funny. I think she's a character that children would like as a friend - I'm not sure about adults, I think a little of her as a child goes a long way!

How have you made the grown-up Tracy as appealing to children as Tracy, the child?

Lily’s mum, Leeds I’ve kept her, not exactly naughty, but mischievous. She's quite surprising - she might suddenly do something a bit mad, or a bit silly. I think being a mum has slightly changed her because she's a very loving, caring mum.

Is Tracy’s daughter the same or different to Tracy?

Olivia, age 8, Aylesbury They certainly look alike, but Jess is a quieter girl, partly because she has had a much easier, more loving, caring upbringing than Tracy herself had. Jess is probably

more studious, and more of a bookworm, but when push comes to shove Jess can certainly stand up for herself too.

Did you and your illustrator, Nick Sharratt, disagree at all about how Tracy and her daughter should be drawn?

Rosie, age 9, Twickenham I mostly leave it to him, and certainly I think he has done Jess wonderfully. He suggested that Jess might wear glasses, which I thought was a very clever touch because it gives them that little bit of difference, and also Jess is a total bookworm and it just looks right for her to be wearing her little glasses. I was very pleased with that addition.

What’s been the highlight for you of being the Children’s Laureate?

Emma’s mum, Portsmouth It gave me a chance to speak to lots of children and teachers and librarians, and the particular thing I wanted to promote was reading aloud to children. Because right from when they are one year old, any child likes to sit on a lap and hear the simplest of stories, and I also suggested that even when your child has learned to read, sometimes it’s fun to read aloud a book that they might not necessarily tackle themselves because it's a bit difficult to get into, or the vocabulary is quite hard, but they would love to listen to the story. If they are doing colouring, or building something, or just petting the dog or whatever, or at bedtime, children do still like to be read to aloud.

Your books depict real children’s real lives and challenges in a way that few others do – how do you get inside the heads of your characters?

Lizzie’s mum, Glasgow Bizarrely, I can remember very vividly what

6 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

How do you select names for your characters?

Readers at the Chatterbook Group, Ringwood Library, Dorset I like to try and have slightly unusual names, and if they are pertinent to the story that pleases me - for my identical twins in my book Double Act, I had them called Ruby and Garnet because they are both red jewel stones. For The Illustrated Mum, the mother Marigold has a great passion for tattoos and has called her girls the rather outlandish names of Star and Dolphin, simply because they are very popular tattoo icons. With Tracy I wanted a quirky, bouncy modern name - and with Hetty Feather, Hetty is an old-fashioned name and Feather because she's light as a feather!

My Mum Tracy Beaker by Dame Jacqueline Wilson is out now, published by Doubleday.

WIN! WIN! WIN!

Families Warwickshire has a copy of My Mum Tracy Beaker up for grabs. To be in with a chance of winning it, simply email your name, phone number and address to editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk and write ‘Tracy Beaker’ in the subject.

Deadline: 30 November

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Encouraging your family to exercise is important in order to keep them fit and healthy and to protect them against serious health problems such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and mental conditions like depression.

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Inactive children are likely to become even less active during adulthood, but you can help prevent this by making family activities and fitness a part of your child’s life at an early age. By making time to exercise together as a family, you can spend fun, quality time with your kids whilst helping them form healthy habits for life.

video game. You could play a working-out video game like Pokemon Go or ‘Train like a Jedi’ play along video on www.nhs.uk/ change4life. You could even sign up for a dance class together. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your exercise options.

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Call Lorraine on 07921 853773

Here are some tips for making that happen:

Create a Schedule

One of the biggest mistakes families make when starting an exercise programme is expecting things to just fall into place.

Unfortunately, most families need a set exercise schedule. Consider starting with two or three exercise “appointments” each week and marking these on your calendar.

Make sure your children know when you’re going to exercise so they don’t make plans during those times.

Make it Interesting

Many families want to exercise together but find that exercise can be incredibly boring. It doesn’t have to be! Whatever your exercise of choice, there are ways you can spice things up and keep them interesting. For example, you could listen to fun music while you exercise. You could go walking - or running - in a different park or neighbourhood. You could try a dancing

Make sure you focus on building your relationship as you exercise. Your goal shouldn’t be to compete with one another or be better than each other. Instead, use this time to talk, share experiences and grow together as a family. Something as simple as asking your kids what made them laugh that day, or what made them sad or angry, can go a long way towards opening a good discussion. You can also allow your kids to take turns choosing what form of exercise you’ll undertake. This will make them feel included and important.

Book Family Classes

Find out about fitness classes that are offered for parents and kids together, such as swimming, aerobics or yoga. These exercises help strengthen the body and mind, and doing them as a family provides another way for you to all spend quality time together.

Talk to your children, explain how many activities you think there is time for and find out what they are interested in pursuing.

that create a quality product over a period of time and teach value skills such as leadership and team work eg putting on a play.

Help them choose activities that reflect who they are and what they want to learn and don’t impose your own preferences.

Don’t assume that high cost equals high quality.

Remember that moving from one activity to another is normal with children.

Always consider the benefits of an activity. For instance, there’s great value in discipline-based activities

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H Barford

Ensure staff members are professionals with relevant skills and experience.

Consider the mix of activities. The benefits of exercise are huge, so you might like to include a sport.

If you are stuck between two similar activities, consider the usefulness, e.g. drumming lessons might be cool, but the guitar might be more applicable.

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Top Tips for Choosing Classes, Activities & Clubs for Your Child By Elisabeth Dolton

If you have a reluctant child, explain that it’s important and fun to try new things, but don’t insist.

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01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 7

Education They like to understand what it feels like to go through the motions of what they are learning. Virtual reality technology can be utilised to optimise their learning experience.

Social learners – individuals that respond to teachers who are inquisitive and ask what they are thinking and feeling about key topics and concepts. Search engines such as Google, Google Assistant and Siri can be utilised to maximise their learning experience.

Solitary listeners – individuals that are more comfortable sorting out problems on their own. Videos, online tutorials and audio learning can be utilised to optimise their learning experience.

Equipping our Children for a Digital Future By Casey Farquharson Analysts Gartner have predicted that £19bn will be spent globally on educational technology by 2019. But are we sure that this will make our children better prepared to succeed in the future? Will they possess the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digitalised world?

comes problem solving skills, innovation, critical thinking, and the ability to think outside the box. Rapport and relationship building, the ability to effectively express oneself both orally and in writing, confidence and collaboration are key components of social skills.

Coding is a key tech skill which can help prepare our children for the future. Yet, according to an article in The Guardian, over 67% of primary and secondary school teachers believe they cannot teach coding because of a lack of 'skills and teaching tools.’ Many schools simply don't have personnel with the required skills and understanding to teach pupils how to code.

There is an urgent need for more investment in the education sector to train teachers to code; to attract more individuals to learn and teach coding; and to equip schools, both secondary and primary, with the necessary hardware

Plying our children with tablets and other forms of tech hardware is most definitely not a sure-proof way to ensure they have these attributes. The point here is not that tablets are bad or not useful, but that they should never be utilised as a be-all and endall. Technology should not be a foundation of learning, but rather an enabler and a catalyst.

However, it isn’t all about technology. Yes, we want our children to have good tech and digital skills, but character, creativity, and social skills are also vital. No matter how digitalised the world becomes, these three attributes of success cannot be compromised.

The components of character are courage, determination, the audacity to be different, focus, and the ability to ask questions and make one’s own decisions. With creativity

There are seven learning styles* that need to be understood and embraced if our primary-age children are to get the most from their technology learning experiences: Aural Listeners – individuals that respond primarily to sound. Technology can be utilised to effectively engage with such individuals via the use of podcasts and audio teaching tools.

Logical learners – individuals with logical and organised minds. Mind mapping technology can be effectively utilised to improve their learning experience.

Physical learners – individuals who respond to words that incite feeling and activity.

8 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Verbal listeners – individuals who absorb information more effectively via verbal instruction. Innovative technology such as Siri, Cortana and Ok Google can be utilised to teach such individuals.

Visual learners – individuals that learn more effectively with pictures and imagery.

Tablets and virtual reality technology can be utilised to optimise their learning experience.

It’s clear from the above that technology has the potential to be an effective enabler of specific and overall learning experiences. However, the key to its sustained effectiveness when it comes to education lies in technology being utilised in a supportive capacity, as against a leading one.

If we want our children to succeed in the future, then we must protect their emotional and psychological wellbeing. It is time to take responsibility for educating children, not only on the distinct dangers of the digital world but also on the importance of the true foundations of positive self-esteem.

In order for our children to prosper in the future it is absolutely vital that we improve and preserve their emotional wellbeing – and appropriate technology training and learning scenarios can play a part in that education. *Source: www.educationdegree.com ABOUT THE AUTHOR Casey Farquharson is the founder of IDEAS Bus, an interactive educational platform (on wheels!) designed to help educators discover the latest cutting-edge learning technology and students to get hands on coding, tech and digital media experience.

More info at http://theideasbus.org.uk

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Education

A little school with big ambitions The Crescent School in Bilton, Rugby is a little school with big ambitions.

Our dedicated staff pride themselves on really knowing our pupils well and bringing out the very best in all of them.

Since joining The Princethorpe Foundation there have been some exciting developments. Come and see our improved facilities, meet our Headmaster and hear our plans for the future.

Is your child due to start school in September 2019?

Join us for our dedicated Reception Open Evening on Tuesday 20 November from 7pm to 8pm. Or pop along to one of our whole school Open Events in the New Year.

For information call 01788 523851 or visit crescentschool.co.uk

Crescent School

An independent school for 4-11 year olds

A Princethorpe Foundation School. Registered Charity Number 1087124.

Join us for our

Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Crackley turned my little girl from the one hiding in the corner, to the one standing centre stage, in front of a full house and in the lead role of Joseph in the school play.

All that confidence comes from the school, and it never me ceases to amaze me.

Wendy Farquharson – Crackley parent and PTA member.

Is your child due to start school in September 2019?

Join us for our dedicated Reception and Nursery Open Evening on Thursday 22 November from 7pm to 8pm.

Or pop along to one of our whole school Open Events in the New Year.

For information call 01926 514410 or visit crackleyhall.co.uk #crackleyandme

Crackley Hall School An independent school for 4 -11 year olds

A Princethorpe Foundation School. Registered Charity Number 1087124.

Bablake

Friday 18th January 2019 10:00am - 12:00pm For more details, visit arnoldlodge.com We find their smiles

Come and visit us at the Junior School

Open Morning

01926 778050

admissions@arnoldlodge.com

15-17 Kenilworth Road, Leamington Spa, CV32 5TW

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Saturday 26th January 2019 10am-12pm www.bablake.com 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 9

Education

Odd Socks Day for Anti-Bullying Week Anti-Bullying Week runs from 12 to 16 November 2018 and the theme this year is choosing respect over bullying.

The aim of the week is to support schools to help children understand:

A Daily Mile Improves Children’s Health An initiative to get schoolchildren to walk or run a mile every day leads to significant improvements in their health, according to a study.

The Daily Mile scheme was originally the brainchild of a Scottish head teacher who started it in 2012. Researchers at Stirling University compared the health of children at a primary school taking part in the scheme with those at a school that wasn’t participating.

The children wore accelerometers which recorded how much moderate to vigorous

Tuesday 15 January 2019

physical activity (MVPA) they were undertaking every day, and for how long they were sedentary. Children who were doing the Daily Mile were significantly healthier than those who were not.

According to the Daily Mile Foundation, more than 3,600 schools worldwide have introduced the initiative, including about 1,200 in England, 770 in Scotland, 210 in Wales, 85 in Northern Ireland and more than 100 in the Republic of Ireland.

More info at www.stir.ac.uk and www.thedailymile.co.uk

• The definition of respect • That bullying is a behavioural choice • That we can respectfully disagree with each other i.e. we don’t have to be best friends or always agree with each other but we do have to show each other respect • That we all need to choose to respect each other, both face to face and online Students are being encouraged to wear odd socks to school on Monday 12 November to show their support and raise money for a good cause.

To get involved, visit www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

Places available fo Septemb r er 2019

Entrance Assessments for girls aged 7+ Bridge Field, Banbury Road, Warwick CV34 6PL | admissions@warwickprep.com | 01926 491545

www.warwickprep.com

|

@warwickprep

Warwick Preparatory School is part of the Warwick Independent Schools Foundation, together with King’s High School and Warwick School, providing high quality education for boys and girls aged 3-18.

10 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

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180 x 130 Junior School All Round and Nov At Work plus Assess Vs 2.qxp_Layout 1 18/10/2018 09:19 Page 1

Education

An Outstanding Education and...

So Much More

Independent boys’ school (7-11 years)

iK

(To register go to: www.warwickschool.org/key-dates) 01926 776414 | admissions@warwickschool.org | www.warwickschool.org

SIXTH @KING’S

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01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 11

Education

Compulsory Relationship and Sex Education Relationship and health education will become compulsory for school children from September 2020, the Government has announced. Under the proposals, all pupils will study compulsory health education and new reformed relationship education in primary school, as well as relationship and sex education in secondary school.

The Princethorpe Foundation Shortlisted For Two Awards The Princethorpe Foundation is thrilled to have been shortlisted in two categories in the Independent School of the Year Awards.

The Foundation’s senior school, Princethorpe College, has been shortlisted for Independent School of the Year - Student Careers Programme. Whilst Foundation junior school, Crackley Hall, has been shortlisted for the coveted Independent Prep School of the Year. They were both selected ahead of hundreds of independent schools from across the country who had entered the awards.

which independent schools prepare young people for their future lives.

The Awards Scheme is in its inaugural year and has been introduced to celebrate the independent education sector, showcase excellence in student experience and recognise the varied and imaginative way in

Photo: (left to right) Ed Hester, Headmaster Princethorpe College, Jacqui Quinney, Head of Careers Princethorpe College and Rob Duigan, Headmaster Crackley Hall School

Ed Hester, Headmaster at Princethorpe College, comments, “We are delighted that the Awards committee have recognised our Foundation schools. Our dedicated staff are committed to providing the very best experience for our pupils, supporting them as they grow into confident, resilient young people. This is a testament to the hard work they do every day and we are very proud to have been shortlisted.”

Teachers will talk to primary school pupils in an age appropriate way about the features of healthy friendships, family relationships and other relationships they are likely to encounter. At secondary school, teachers will build on the foundation of relationships education in primary school and, at the appropriate time, extend teaching to include intimate relationships as well.

At both primary and secondary, pupils will learn about staying safe online and how to use technology safely, responsibly and respectfully. Classes will also cover physical health, such as the importance of exercise and healthy eating, as well as the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and how it contributes towards the prevention of health problems.

More information can be found under Consultations at www.gov.uk/ government/publications

Independent Schools – Contact Details and Open Days Arnold Lodge Leamington Spa (Ages 4-18) T: 01926 778050 E: info@arnoldlodge.com www.arnoldlodge.com Bilton Grange Rugby (Ages 4-13) T: 01788 810217 E: admissions@biltongrange.co.uk www.biltongrange.co.uk Fri 30 Nov: Pre-Prep Open House The Kingsley School Leamington Spa (Ages 3-18) T: 01926 421368 E: registrar@kingsleyschool.co.uk www.thekingsleyschool.com Fri 9 Nov, 9.30am-12pm: Prep School Open House

PREP AND JUNIOR SCHOOLS Bablake Pre Prep Coventry T: 024 7622 1677 E: bablakepreprep@bablakejs.co.uk Bablake Junior School Coventry T: 024 7627 1260 E: jhmsec@bablakejs.co.uk www.bablakejuniorschool.co.uk

Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery Kenilworth T: 01926 514444 E: post@crackleyhall.co.uk www.crackleyhall.co.uk Thurs 22 Nov, 7pm-8pm: Reception and Nursery Open Evening Crescent School Rugby T: 01788 521595 E: post@crescentschool.co.uk www.crescentschool.co.uk Tues 20 Nov, 7pm-8pm: Reception Open Evening The Croft Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon T: 01789 293795 E: office@croftschool.co.uk www.croftschool.co.uk Henley Montessori Primary and Merrydays Montessori Nursery Henley-in-Arden T: 01564 792427 E: helen.everley@henleymontessori.co.uk www.henleymontessori.co.uk King Henry VIII Prep School Coventry T: 024 7627 1307 E: admissions@khps.co.uk www.khviii.co.uk

12 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Stratford Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon T: 01789 297993 E: secretary@stratfordprep.co.uk www.stratfordprep.co.uk Thurs 22 Nov, 10am-2.30pm and 6pm-8pm: Open Day

King’s High Warwick T: 01926 494485 E: enquiries@kingshighwarwick.co.uk www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk Mon 10 Dec, 6.30pm-8.30pm: Sixth Form Open Evening

Warwick Preparatory School Warwick T: 01926 491545 E: admissions@warwickprep.com www.warwickprep.com

Princethorpe College Rugby T: 01926 634201 E: admissions@princethorpe.co.uk www.princethorpe.co.uk

Warwick School Warwick T: 01926 776400 E: enquiries@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org Tues 20 Nov, 1.30pm-3pm: Junior School At Work

Warwick School Warwick T: 01926 776400 E: enquiries@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org

SENIOR SCHOOLS Bablake Senior School Coventry T: 024 7627 1200 E: info@bablake.coventry.sch.uk www.bablake.com King Henry VIII Senior School Coventry T: 024 7627 1111 E: admissions@khviii.net www.khviii.co.uk

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Christmas Play cards

Teach the children the card games you used to play as a child. If you can’t get them interested in Patience or Gin Rummy, look up some cool card tricks for them to learn and show their friends.

Make special cards

Get out the art supplies and card and make some Christmas and birthday cards. Why don’t you get creative with Origami? My kids love making butterflies and birds and sticking them onto cards.

Have a kitchen disco

My favourite thing to do on a rainy day is to have a party in the kitchen. Choose the most appropriate room in your house and sort a great playlist of music that will get the whole family moving. Have a ‘dance off’ with your children.

Make a magazine

Winter Fun – Indoors!

By Claire Winter During the winter months, there’s no avoiding spending much more time indoors. It’s tempting to allow the children to while away the time on devices or playing on their Xbox. But there are ways of keeping your kids off their screens and still having fun, even within the four walls of your own home. messy and great fun. Get your children to Here’s Families guide to some fun badresearch how to make the best slime or play-doh on YouTube (it’s for educational weather-day activities. purposes after all).

Make a cardboard town

Get hold of a giant cardboard box or add lots of small ones together to make a town using large felt tips or paint. Let their imaginations run riot, and they can add cars and wooden/plastic people to make it more realistic.

Set up an indoor treasure hunt

Write some cryptic clues and hide a treasure trail of items for them to find. They may want to design one for you to do too!

Make slime

Batten down the hatches, get the aprons out and be prepared for a tsunami of a mess in your kitchen. This activity is satisfyingly

Get cooking

If you aren’t keen on the slime idea, get the children to cook you a meal instead. This is satisfying for them but also a treat for you (hopefully!). Suggest they plan a threecourse meal for dinner. Get them to design a menu and research how to make the dishes online or refer to some recipe books. Getting them to look in the fridge and come up with some dishes with ingredients you already have teaches them a great a life skill too. A pasta sauce or an apple crumble are tasty, rewarding but simple dishes to make. If you have smaller children baking something

Set up a news desk in the house and decide what the magazine is going to be about.

Think up a great name and get someone in the “team” to design the front cover. Send out some roving reporters to write some news stories and create some fun features.

The whole family can get involved!

Set up a racing track

Use masking tape to create a huge racing track around the house or living room.

Create a second track alongside it, get the toy cars out and race away!

Get active

Make an indoor obstacle course or try hula hooping or skipping in the living room. To make it more interesting, do some timed challenges. Create indoor hopscotch with masking tape.

Try balloon ping pong or table tennis

Blow up some balloons and use table tennis bats or make your own with sticks and paper plates. Alternatively, if you have a table tennis set, drag out the dining table, set up the net and hold a tournament. Hours of fun!

simple like fairy cakes or biscuits would obviously be more appropriate.

Christmas cookies in a jar This is a lovely Christmas gift as the jar can be used again and it’s full of yummy, Christmassy biscuits too.

Gradually add the flour and keep mixing until it forms a ball of dough. Children can do this with their hands.

You will need: • 250g soft butter or margarine • 140g caster sugar • 1 egg • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 300g plain flour • Quarter tsp ground cinnamon • Tiny pinch of ground star anise • Quarter tsp nutmeg • Large Kilner jar • Ribbon and decorations such as mini bells

Next, roll the dough out on a floured surface and use a variety of Christmas cookie cutters to make the shapes - stars, diamonds and hearts are all good. Bake for 12-15 minutes (gas 4, 190oC 375oF).

To decorate: • Icing sugar • Water • Lemon juice Cream together the butter and sugar, then add the yolk from the egg and the vanilla extract.

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Once cool, mix the icing sugar with a teaspoon of lemon juice and a little water, until it is easy to pour but still thick. Use a piping bag to make decorations on each and leave to dry in a cool place.

Finally, place a selection of the cookies into a Kilner jar and decorate with a Christmas ribbon, bells and a label.

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 13

Christmas

Christmas

Where’s Santa?

Breakfast with Santa

Take your little ones to meet Father Christmas.

Enchanted Christmas Kingdom

Hatton Adventure World Nr Warwick Every weekend from Sat 24 Nov-Mon 24 Dec plus weekdays 17-21 Dec Visit Father Christmas in his magical Grotto and receive a golden key to unlock his workshop where each child can choose their very own present. A festive family day out with Fun Fair Rides and Children’s Shows – plus, a Reindeer Hunt with a prize for the children. Plus lots more!

T: 01926 843411 www.hattonworld.com/adventure-world

Vintage Sleigh Ride

Coventry Transport Museum Coventry Sat 24 Nov-Sun 23 Dec, Mon-Fri 11am-5pm, Sat & Sun 9am-5pm Journey to Lapland in this magical and enchanting vintage sleigh, pulled by two trusty reindeer. Meet Santa, tell him your Christmas wishes and receive a special gift. Child £6, accompanying adult £1.50.

T: 024 7623 4270 www.transport-museum.com

Santa’s Passport to Christmas

All Things Wild Honeybourne Sat & Sun 24 & 25 Nov, 1 & 2, 8 & 9, 15 & 16 Dec, Thurs 20-Mon 24 Dec Meet Santa and enjoy a magical and fun Christmas experience. Ride the Sleigh Bell Express, visit Merry Berry’s Christmas Kitchen, take part in the Elf Hunt, meet the Wise Men’s camels. From £4.50, includes day entry to the park.

T: 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk

Santa’s Grotto

Leamington Spa Art Gallery & Museum Sat 15 Dec, 1pm-3.30pm Visit Santa in the gallery grotto. Christmas crafts and festive fun. Refreshments and carols by Royal Spa Brass. Drop in and join in.

T: 01926 742700 www.warwickdc.gov.uk/royalpumprooms

Father Christmas at Coughton Court

Nr Alcester Sat 24 & Sun 25 Nov, Sat 1 & Sun 2 Dec See Father Christmas in his magical Christmas study. Pre-book online.

T: 01789 400777 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/coughton-court

Father Christmas at Charlecote Park

Check website for available dates Visit Father Christmas in his summerhouse grotto.

Family appointment, £6 per child. Breakfast with Father Christmas between 9.30am and 10.30am. £8.50 per adult/£10.50 per child. Prior booking essential for breakfasts and family appointments.

T: 01789 470277 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote-park/ whats-on

Christmas at Compton Verney

Sun 2 & Sun 9 Dec, 1pm-3pm Take part in a range of Christmas activities as we begin the Christmas countdown! Father Christmas and his reindeer will be taking time out of his busy schedule to enjoy a couple of days out at Compton Verney – can you spot him in the grounds?

T: 01926 645500 www.comptonverney.org.uk

Smith’s Magical Christmas

Smith’s Nurseries & Garden Centre Baginton Weekends 8 & 9, 15 & 16, 22 & 23 Santa’s Grotto and lots of free entertainment: face painter, owls, reindeer, donkeys, magician. Santa’s Grotto £7 – tickets available online. On the day tickets subject to availability.

T: 024 7630 3382 www.smithsnurseries.co.uk

Santa at Warwick Castle

See website for dates Stories with Santa - included in general admission.

Santa Sleepover - complete with Elf wake-up call!

T: 01926 406660 www.warwick-castle.com

Charlecote Garden Store and Studley Garden Store Sat & Sun 24 & 25 Nov, 8 & 9, 15 & 16, 22 & 23, 24 Dec, 9am-10.30am Join Santa and his elves for a magical breakfast feast followed by festive fun, songs and games. £9.99 per person. Booking essential. www.gardenstoreonline.co.uk/products/specialoffers/breakfast-with-santa/page-1.html

Breakfast with Santa

Stratford Garden Centre Sat 9, Sat 15 & Sun 16, Thurs 20 & Fri 21 Dec, 8.45am-10.15am Join Mrs Claus and the elves while you enjoy breakfast and wait for a special visit from Santa.

Decorate a cookie and made reindeer food. £18 child (includes Lego present worth £9.99), £10 adult. £50 family (2+2). http://www.stratfordgardencentre.co.uk/events

Breakfast and Tea with Santa

Wyevale Garden Centres Stratford-upon-Avon and Rugby Sat 17 Nov-24 Dec Enjoy a delicious meal, decorate your own biscuit, receive a present and meet Santa himself!

Christmas Grotto - meet Santa and his helpers and take home a real mini magical Christmas tree, plus receive a present from Santa. www.wyevalegardencentres.co.uk/events

Christmas at Kenilworth Castle

Sat 8 & Sun 9 Dec, 10am-4pm A weekend of Christmas fun for all the family. Enjoy crafts and storytelling and visit Santa in his grotto. £5 per child.

T: 01926 852078 www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworthcastle

Santa in The Royal Priors Leamington Spa

Sat 15 & 22 Dec, 10am-4pm; Sun 16 & 23, 11am-3pm Santa will again be on his sleigh in the Royal Priors this Christmas. Every year the Rotary Club of Royal Leamington Spa invite Santa to the Royal Priors where he delights youngsters with presents and a friendly Ho! Ho! Ho! www.sparotary.org.uk

Experience the true magic of Christmas with a wonderful ride on the Co-op Sleigh, now at Coventry Transport Museum!

24 November – 23 December Children (includes a gift)

£6

Accompanying adult

£1.50

(up to three adults per child)

Adult

£5

Sponsored by

For full details please go to www.transport-museum.com We reserve the right to close the ride early.

14 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

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Christmas Santa Float

Santa's sleigh aims to visit virtually every road in Kenilworth and Leek Wootton over three weeks in December, raising money for charity. You can also see him at the two town Lights Switch Ons. www.kenilworthroundtable.com/SantaFloat

Christmas Markets

Christmas Lights Switch Ons

Leamington Spa’s Yuletide Market The Parade on Sundays from 18 November to 23 December

Father Christmas at the Magic Alley and Enchanted Manor

Stratford Victorian Market Friday 7 to Sunday 9 December

Leamington Spa: Sunday 18 November Stratford-upon-Avon: Thursday 22 November Alcester: Sunday 25 November Southam: Sunday 25 November Warwick: Thursday 29 November Henley-in-Arden: Saturday 1 December Kenilworth High Street: Friday 30 November Kenilworth Warwick Road: Sunday 2 December

Bell Court, Stratford-upon-Avon Thurs 23 Nov-Mon 24 Dec Visit Father Christmas in this magical grotto.

Everyone receives a specially commissioned bedtime story to be read together on Christmas Eve. Then follow the Christmas trail and have fun in the snow room. £10 per person, under 1s free.

T: 01789 290969 www.stratfordchristmasfestival.co.uk

Stratford Christmas Shopping Market Thursdays from 22 November to 20 December Stratford Sunday Upmarket Waterside on Sundays to 23 December Warwick Victorian Evening Thursday 29 November

Don’t miss Myton Hospice Santa Dash: Sunday 9 December www.mytonhospice.org/event/santa-dash

Southam Christmas Market Sunday 25 November

Leamington Lantern Parade: Sunday 2 December www.leamingtonlanternparade.co.uk

Kenilworth Christmas Market Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 December

Enjoy a Magical Christmas at The Play Village The Play Village in Warwick is looking forward to its very first Christmas and has lots of exciting festive events planned. Feel Christmassy in the beautifully decorated Play Village, join in with the Play Makers and Christmas themed drama activities, lend a hand to Santa’s Chief Elf with all the Christmas preparations, help illuminate the Play Village and mark the start of the Christmas countdown, and lots more!

Santa Claus will be making 12 special visits throughout December. See the website for details about the Christmas Events on offer from the last week of November to the end of December.

& Nature Inspired Gift Shop

The UK’s Largest Tropical Butterfly Paradise!

Open every Day except Christmas Day

Butterflies • Birds • Iguanas • Ants Mini-Beasts and so much more….

Check website for latest news, events & last entry times All displays fully accessible, carers free entry Swan’s Nest Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 7LS

Tel. 01789 299288

enquiries@butterflyfarm.co.uk

www.childrensplayvillage.co.uk/ christmas-visits/

www.butterflyfarm.co.uk

Festive Family Fun Christmas Trail & Crafts 8 - 23 December

Help Martin the Mechanic get Santa’s sleigh back on the road with our Christmas Trail, and enjoy family crafts every weekend.

New Year Activities 2 - 6 January

Get creative with Lego®

BUY 1 DAY GET 12 MONTHS FREE* * terms and conditions apply

Museum closed 24 Dec – 1 Jan

£39 FAMILY

TICKET

BOOK ONLINE

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

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britishmotormuseum.co.uk

J12 M40 . Gaydon . Warwickshire . CV35 0BJ

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 15

Christmas

Performances and Pantos The Albany

Coventry Box Office: 024 7699 8964 www.albanytheatre.co.uk Peter Pan Mon 10-Sat 22 Dec Join Wendy and Peter on their exciting adventures on the island of Neverland. This charming retelling of JM Barrie’s classic story features exquisite puppetry, an unforgettable original music score and heroic swordplay in an action-packed, festive family treat.

Beauty and The Beast Mon 31 Dec-Sat 5 Jan A classic story full of giggles and gags, slapstick and silliness and a whole host of memorable musical numbers. A perfect festive treat for all the family.

Bridge House Theatre

Warwick Box Office: 01789 207100 www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk Showstopper! The Improvised Musical Fri 7 Dec Spontaneous musical comedy at its best. Audience suggestions are transformed on the spot into allsinging, all-dancing productions with hilarious results.

Robin Hood and The Revolting Peasants Sun 9 Dec Humour, fast-paced action and live music - a show for all the family.

Royal Spa Centre

Leamington Spa Box Office: 01926 334418 www.royalspacentreandtownhall. co.uk Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers: Tribe Tues 13 Nov A breathtaking display of high energy and powerful rhythms on huge taiko drums.

Dick Whittington Sat 1-Sun 30 Dec A spectacular festive treat telling the rags to riches tale of Dick Whittington, starring our favourite dame, J P McCue. Enjoy the perfect family panto with spectacular sets and costumes, fabulous songs and dances and bags of slapstick fun!

The Belgrade Theatre Coventry Box Office: 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk

Warwick Arts Centre

Christmas Gift ideas

Coventry Box Office: 024 7652 4524 www.warwickartscentre.co.uk Sleepyhead Fri 9 & Sat 10 Nov A little adventure with a lot of laughs! It’s been a long day for Dad and he can hardly keep his eyes open. All he wants is for Baby to go to sleep but tonight, Baby has other ideas! For ages 2-5.

The Wolf and Peter Tues 13 & Weds 14 Nov Telling the timeless story through the eyes of the wolf. This fun and theatrical production is filled with dance and live music. For ages 6+.

Oskar’s Amazing Adventure Thurs 22-Sat 24 Nov storytelling, physical theatre, clowning, puppetry and music and song to tell the tale of a puppy’s search for friendship in the wilderness of the Alps. For ages 2-8.

Wilde Creatures Weds 28 Nov-Sun 30 Dec Bringing classic fairy tales to life.

Original live music and a generous dash of comedy. For ages 5+.

Lords of Strut: Absolute Legends Sat 1 & Sun 2 Dec Street Performance World Champions and semi-finalists on Britain’s Got Talent, Lords of Strut deliver a high-octane performance, combining dance and athletics and lots of jokes along the way.

For ages 9+.

The Canterville Ghost Tues 18-Sun 23 & Thurs 27-Sun 30 Dec Spine-tingling, laugh-out-loud story, combining theatre, music, magic and comedy in a delicious tribute to Victorian music hall. For ages 12+.

Royal Shakespeare Theatre

Brilliant board games Laurence King Publishing has recently released I Saw it First!: Jungle, the first in a range of fun family spotting board games. We had lots of fun trying it out at Families Warwickshire HQ! Three hundred jungle animals populate the board of this carefully engineered game. Some are familiar, like the leopard or the hippopotamus, others less so, like the eyelash viper or the giraffe weevil. Simply pull a counter from the box featuring one of the 300 animals in this game and be the first to spot that animal on the board! The person with the most counters, wins! It’s simple to understand but addictive to play and is perfect for all the family.

If Bingo’s a firm favourite in your house, we can definitely recommend Laurence King Publishing’s fabulous collection – Bird, Bug, Dog, Cat, Monkey and more recently Ocean Bingo. These beautifully illustrated games include booklets filled with interesting facts bringing a fun and educational twist to the traditional game.

I Saw It First!: Jungle and Bird, Bug, Dog, Cat, Monkey and Ocean Bingo all offer hours of fun for all the family and make beautiful Christmas presents. www.laurenceking.com

Stratford-upon-Avon Box Office: 01789 403493 www.rsc.org.uk

A Christmas Carol Tues 4 Dec -Sun 20 Jan A wonderful adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic - one of the most loved short stories ever written.

In one ghostly Christmas night, cold-hearted businessman Ebenezer Scrooge learns to pity himself and to love his neighbour - but is that enough? A festive tale of redemption and compassion. For ages 7+.

Priory Theatre

Kenilworth Box Office: 01926 863334 www.priorytheatre.co.uk

Sleeping Beauty Weds 21 Nov-Sat 5 Jan Featuring a dragon, a dame and a dozing Princess, the Belgrade’s legendary panto will once again bring a touch of magic and mayhem to your festive celebrations.

Santa’s Sparkly Surprise Weds 12-Mon 24 Dec An unmissable treat for all children up to the age of 6 years. Fun characters, favourite action songs, a great story and a chance to meet Santa and get a present from him.

Puss in Boots Weds 12-Sun 30 Dec Enjoy the fabulous Priory panto, with spectacular sets and costumes, fabulous songs and dances - and bags of slapstick fun!

Talisman Theatre

Kenilworth Box Office: 01926 856548 www.talismantheatre.co.uk Aladdin Fri 21 Dec-Sat 5 Jan All the fun of the traditional family pantomime, with quite a few twists!

Lots of laughs, music, magic and fun.

16 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

The Perfect Gift of a Lifetime Time seems to fly by so quickly and our little ones are growing up.

Before we know it, our ‘Little Beans’ will be off. Let me capture a moment in time with your family, just as they are right now.

A Gift Voucher for a Little Beanies Photo Session really is a gift of a lifetime. You can buy either an amount of your choice or a session which includes a Free 8 x 10 print.

For more info, please email lisa@littlebeanies.co.uk or visit www.littlebeanies.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas

Celebrate Christmas at Compton Verney

Take part in a range of Christmas activities as we begin the festive countdown.

Natural Wonders Tree Decorations

Festive Storytelling

Sun 2, Sun 9, Sat 15 & Sun 16 Dec, 11am – 4pm

Big Bang and Brass Band

Spot Santa Sun 2 Dec & Sun 9 Dec, 1pm – 3pm

Christmas Concert

by Royal Birmingham Conservatoire Chamber Choir Fri 14 Dec, 2.30pm – 3.45pm

Come and explore Christmas at Coughton Court this winter

Sat 15 Dec

Sat 24 Nov - Sun 2 Dec, 10am - 4pm Seasonal cheer for all the family awaits at Coughton this winter. With festive shopping, the house dressed for a Throckmorton family Christmas, a traditional market both weekends and Father Christmas in his festive study; there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Sun 16 Dec, 2pm – 5pm.

Last entry 4pm

Find out more about our Christmas weekends on our website: www.comptonverney.org.uk

#nationaltrust

Call 01789 400 777 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/coughtoncourt

© National Trust 2018. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images.

ADVENTURE. ANIMALS. ACTION.

Book online early for great savings

24th November – 24th December 2018

Timed entry and minimal queues

A Truly Magical Experience hattonworld.com

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19707A 10/18

Fantastic all day family entertainment programme

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 17

Christmas

Days Out – places to go and things to do this November and December Where’s Santa? See page 14 to find out where you can meet Father Christmas.

St Mary’s Church Warwick

Thurs 29 Nov-Sun 9 Dec Christmas Tree Festival Stunning display. All the trees are individually decorated by the community and local businesses.

Vote for your favourite and be entered in the prize draw. Admission to the opening night on Victorian Evening is 50p per adult and £1 per adult for the remainder of the festival. Child entry is free. Santa is visiting the festival on Sat 8 Dec at 11am. See website for full details and more info. www.stmaryswarwick.org.uk

British Motor Museum Gaydon

Sat 8-Sun 23 Dec Festive Family Fun Enjoy our Christmas trail. Help Martin the Mechanic fix Santa’s sleigh.

Meet Lady Edwards or William her Chauffeur.

Sat & Sun 8 & 9, 15 & 16, 22 & 23 Dec Christmas Craft Weekends Make car shaped Christmas decorations out of salt dough and car shaped Christmas cards.

Weds 2-Sun 6 Jan, 10am-3pm New Year Family Fun Get creative with Lego®. Design a new car for the New Year. Step back in time and meet ‘Torchey Blane’ and ‘Chuck England’. Mini Trail, new for 2019, celebrating 60 years of Minis.

All activities are included in normal Museum admission.

T: 01926 641188 www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk

Stratford Butterfly Farm

Stratford-upon-Avon A unique and spectacular family day out. Find extra special stockingfillers in the nature inspired gift shop. During the Christmas holidays, discover some of the amazing creatures that live at the Butterfly Farm with our popular ‘Meet the Minibeast’ handling sessions. Twice daily from 27 Dec to 6 Jan. Hold a variety of stick insects, African land snails, giant millipedes and even Madagascan cockroaches!

T: 01789 299288 www.butterflyfarm.co.uk

Kenilworth Castle

A fantastic place to let kids run free and get plenty of fresh air. Explore the ruins and have a great day out.

T: 01926 852078 www.english-heritage.org.uk/ kenilworthcastle

The MAD Museum

Stratford-upon-Avon The MAD Museum houses an impressive collection of eccentric and ingenious creations. A fun place to visit for all the family. Great shop, ideal for Christmas shopping.

T: 01789 269356 www.themadmuseum.co.uk

Hatton Adventure World

Nr Warwick Fantastic day out for all the family.

Indoor and outdoor attractions and entertainment. Full Christmas programme of events plus Christmas in the Farmyard, Guinea Pig Village, Festive Scales & Tails, Christmas Carolling, Indoor Soft Play, Adventure Play and lots more.

T: 01926 843411 www.hattonworld.com/adventureworld

Herbert Art Gallery

Coventry See website for regular art and activity sessions for pre-schoolers, as well as sensory play days with SEN sessions.

Sat 10 Nov, 10.30am-3.30pm WWI Family Day Go back to 1918 for a day to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War. Activities will include costumed interpretation, object handling and crafts. Drop in.

Suitable for age 3+, but all welcome.

Free (small charge for some activities).

T: 024 7623 7521 www.theherbert.org

Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Guildhall

Stratford-upon-Avon Discover where William Shakespeare was educated. Lots of fun for the family including dressing up Tudorstyle, Tudor games, Medieval wall paintings and brush up your Latin with our Tudor School Master!

T: 01789 203170 www.shakespearesschoolroom.org

All Things Wild

Honeybourne A great day out for all the family, all year round. Lots to see and do indoors and outdoors.

Weekends from 24 Nov plus Thurs 20-Mon 24 Dec Santa’s Passport to Christmas Festive activities such as Merry Berry’s Christmas kitchen, taking a ride on the Sleigh Bell Express, the Elf Hunt and much more!

T: 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk

Compton Verney

Nr Warwick A great day out for all the family whatever the weather. Lots of activities and special events to enjoy all year round. Woodland adventure playground, explore the galleries with an ‘art explorer’ backpack or take part in a range of craft activities during the school holidays.

Sun 2, 9, 16 & Sat 15 Dec, 11am-4pm Natural Wonders Tree Decorations Sun 2 & 9 Dec, 1pm-3pm Spot Santa Sat 15 Dec Festive Storytelling T: 01926 645500 www.comptonverney.org.uk

Warwick Castle

Warwick Jaw-dropping history, magic, myth and adventure! Get lost in time in the Horrible Histories Adventure Maze. A great day out for the whole family.

T: 0871 265 2000 www.warwick-castle.com

18 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Stratford-upon-Avon The Play’s the Thing Family-friendly exhibition for families and children aged 7+. Take a magical journey through 100 years of theatre-making in Stratfordupon-Avon. Immersive, hands on and engaging. www.rsc.org.uk/theplaysthething

Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve Coventry Brandon Marsh runs regular Nature Tots sessions for pre-school children, Wildlife Watch after school clubs, plus activity sessions during school holidays, including crafts, den building and pond dipping. Learn about different animals and have lots of fun!

T: 024 7630 2912 www.warwickshirewildlifetrust. org.uk

The National Trust

Coventry Transport Museum

Coventry This huge museum offers a whole FREE day out of fun and discovery for visitors of all ages.

Thurs 27-Sat 29 & Mon 31 Dec, 10.30am-3.30pm Winter Holiday Family Crafts Reuse, Reduce, Recycle - Gift Making Workshop. Transform wrapping paper, Christmas cards and a selection of surprise materials to make amazing gifts that you can use throughout the year! £2.50 (cash only). Drop-In. Booking not required.

T: 024 7623 4270 www.transport-museum.com

Swan Theatre

Redwings Horse Sanctuary

Oxhill Open every Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon, 10am to 4pm Home to almost 90 rescued horses, ponies and donkeys. Café and gift shop, plus the opportunity to adopt a horse. Entry and parking are free and dogs on leads are welcome.

Donkey Fun - beginning on Fri 21 Dec for three consecutive weekends, donkey-themed activities, including donkey grooming, talks and tours.

Meet long-eared Adoption Star duo Timothy and Cain, and irresistibly fluffy donkey Arya.

T: 0870 040 0033 www.redwings.org.uk

Shakespeare Houses

In and near Stratford-upon-Avon Sat 15 Dec-Thurs 3 Jan, 10am-4pm Christmas at the Shakespeare Family Homes Enjoy a magical tour around Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Let our expert guides bring Tudor Christmas to life in Shakespeare’s family home.

At Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, take a step back in time to the 1600s and follow the various generations of Hathaway’s as you discover their story and how they have left their mark on the cottage today. Discover the Christmas traditions that have developed through the ages. At Shakespeare’s New Place, create your own snow flake to hang on the Christmas tree.

Sat 15 & Sun 16 Dec, 12pm-4pm Father Christmas at Hall’s Croft Father Christmas has travelled back in time to teach the Jacobeans the wonders of Christmas. Children can meet him and receive a special personalised gift and take part in hands on activities. £8 per child, adult goes free. (Price includes Christmas biscuit decorating activity in the café).

See website for full details and for all other activities taking place across the Shakespeare Family Homes.

T: 01789 204016 www.shakespeare.org.uk

Royal Shakespeare Company

Stratford-upon-Avon FREE drop-in activities all year round including Dressing Up Box, Play Cart, Adventure Bags plus special events and workshops during school holidays.

T: 01789 403493 www.rsc.org.uk/families

See the local NT houses dressed for Christmas and enjoy festive activities.

Sat 24 Nov-Sun 2 Dec, 10am-4pm Christmas at Coughton Court Festive shopping, the house dressed for Christmas, a traditional market both weekends and Father Christmas in his study. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ coughtoncourt

Ryton Pools Country Park

Bubbenhall Every Wednesday, in holidays and term time, 10am-11.30am Toddler Trundle A weekly event for the tiniest of tiddlers! £2.50 per toddler.

Sat 1 Dec-Sun 6 Jan (weekends and school holidays) Naughty Elves Festive Fun Trail Follow the trail around the park and complete your trail sheet - fun for all the family. £2 per trail sheet.

Sat 1 Dec, 11am-2pm Family Christmas Campfire and Bushcraft Survive in the woodland. Learn new skills, laugh a lot and spend a day in the great outdoors. Baked potato, mulled juice and fire toasted marshmallows. Make natural Christmas tree decorations. For ages 3+ accompanied by an adult. Adults £10, Concessions £5.

Sun 16 Dec, 1.30pm-3pm A Fairy Merry Christmas Decorate your own willow Christmas star, then help the fairies by going on a hunt for their missing decorations.

For ages 3+ accompanied by an adult. £4.50 per child.

T: 024 7630 5592 http://countryparks.warwickshire. gov.uk

Foundry Wood

Leamington Spa An urban community woodland in the heart of Leamington Spa and Warwick. Learn about woodland habitats, wildlife conservation, traditional woodland crafts, and more. Regular Forest School sessions, storytelling, creative workshops and lots of special events. www.foundrywood.co.uk

Orienteering Events

Outdoor fun adventure navigation sport for all ages. Just like a treasure hunt, find the control points placed around the parks and woods. Suitable for beginners and experienced orienteers. Sun 24 Nov at Elmdon Park Solihull, starts 10.30am-12noon. Weds 28 Nov at Memorial Park Coventry, after dark, early evening, bring head torches.

Sun 9 Dec, Itchington Holt, Harbury, starts 10.30-12 noon. No need to prebook, just turn up.

T: 01926 632189 www.octavian-droobers.org

familiesonline.co.uk

Christmas

r P e t an e P Written by JM Barrie Adapted by Lyon Devereux

By arrangement with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity And Samuel French Ltd

Join us in Neverland - a magical world of faith, and trust, and pixie dust

Mon 10 - Sat 22 December school | matinee | evening performances All open for general booking

albanytheatre.co.uk | 02746 99 89 64

Elmer the Patchwork Elephant comes to Warwick this January!

Featuring a menagerie of 12 loveable puppets, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant Show tells the tale of an elephant that stands out – both with his patchwork-coloured skin and his sense of humour – but ultimately realizing that his friends have always valued his unique characteristics.

Sunday 10th February 2019, 2pm

Bridge House Theatre, Myton Road, Warwick, CV34 6PP Tickets £12 Adult / £10 Concession (Family of 4 £35) Box Office 01926 776438 (1pm-5:30pm Mon-Fri) or buy online at www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk

Don’t Miss From Sat 15 Dec

CBeebies Christmas Show

The much-anticipated annual show is being shown in cinemas. CBeebies’ favourite personalities are lined up to star in this unique adaptation of the original Hans Christian Andersen tale, Thumbelina. Details on website. www.cbeebieschristmasshow.com

familiesonline.co.uk

Sat 17 Nov, 3pm

Preschool Prom at All Saints’ Parish Church

Leamington Spa Fun, family-friendly concert. Children will experience the drama and delight of orchestral music, along with familiar nursery rhymes, action songs and stories. The perfect event to introduce families to classical music. £3 per ticket. Free entry for babies up to 12 months. www.leamingtonsinfonia.org.uk

Merry Christmas from us all at Warwickshire

01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 19

Have a

y l e d l i W mas!

t s i r H C g n i n i enterta

TALL STORIES PRESENT

Wilde Creatures Based on the fairy tales of Oscar Wilde

Wed 28 Nov Sun 30 Dec Age 5+

TALL STORIES PRESENT

The Canterville Ghost

Oscar Wilde’s spirited spectacular and gruesome comic ghost story

Tue 18 - Sun 30 Dec Age 12+

Warwick Arts Centre – the region’s biggest arts and entertainment venue. FREE parking after 6pm Warwick Arts Centre @warwickarts warwickarts

Box Office 024 7652 4524 warwickartscentre.co.uk

20 Families Warwickshire 01926 335004 editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Warwick Arts Centre The University of Warwick Coventry CV4 7AL familiesonline.co.uk