Families Gloucestershire Issue 35 November/December 2016

Gloucestershire

Issue No 35 November/December 2016 www.familiesonline.co.uk

Education Where’s Santa What’s On

Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in Gloucestershire

Editor’s Letter Dear readers Has the end-of-term Christmas panic hit you yet? You know that feeling. The sudden recognition of the fact that the season of school performances and carol concerts, frantic diary planning and last-minute shopping is only a matter of weeks away. Perhaps you are lucky enough to be super-efficient and have already got everything pre-planned, pre-booked and pre-bought – but if not, then at least take some comfort from knowing that you are not alone!

Helmets Safer Than You Think

Encourage your family to stick with bike helmets. A study of bike helmet use has found that wearing a bicycle crash helmet reduces your risk of serious head injury by 70% - and your risk of a fatal head injury by 65%. The same study also said that neck injuries are not caused by, or made worse by, wearing helmets.

Statisticians Prudence Creighton and Jake Olivier from Australia’s University of New South Wales took data from 40 studies and presented their results at Safety 2016 in Finland.

Living Crafts At Bleinham

This issue we provide a Where’s Santa guide so that you can visit that all important man and we also have a Christmas edition of our regular What’s On Guide, as well as a feature on the benefits of music and the importance of encouraging kids to sing and dance and play instruments.

Have a merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful New Year.

Diane Clifford. Editor Tel: 01684 770566 Email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

Next issue January/February 2017 Booking Deadline 7 December

www.familiesonline.co.uk

In this issue 2 News & Views

9 Christmas Gifts

4 Ed’s Reading Room

10 Clubs and Classes

6 Education

12 Where’s Santa

8 Health

14 What’s On

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editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk Circulation: 19,000 copies of Families Gloucestershire are available through nurseries, pre-schools, schools, libraries, soft play centres, selected shops and other distribution points throughout the county. If you would like free copies for your organisation or if you would like to subscribe so you don’t miss an issue please contact us. Families Gloucestershire is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Gloucestershire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.’ Print: The Manson Group, Reynolds House, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans. AL3 6PZ. Tel: 01727 848 440.

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Families Gloucestershire

Enjoy Christmas shopping in style at Blenheim Palace’s Living Crafts for Christmas. Over 160 designer-makers from across the UK will be showcasing their high quality contemporary crafts during this festive four-day event from 17 – 19 November. The event will take place in the Churchill and Marlborough Pavilions in the Great Court, directly in front of the Palace. Visitors will also be able to enjoy the Christmas theme in the Palace’s state rooms, there will be street entertainers and Abbey Brass Band will be playing traditional carols at the weekend. www.blenheimpalace.com

Support Local Businesses Will you support your local small business this December? Why not pledge to purchase all your Christmas shopping within the Gloucestershire area this year and help your local economy at the same time? What better time to start than Small Business Saturday, which this year will be on 3 December? Small Business Saturday UK is a grassroots, non-commercial campaign, which highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities.

For more information: www. smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com

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

November - December 2016

News & Views

Share A Message Brain Tumour Research (BTR) have a fresh range of cards to choose from for Christmas 2016! Giving or sending cards is the perfect way to show you are thinking of someone during the festive season. Christmas is so often a time to reflect on the significant connections in our lives and a personal card or note is a thoughtful touch that will always be appreciated.

Cards are priced at ÂŁ4 per pack and at least 50% of the proceeds will go towards funding their charitable aims.

Could you sell Christmas cards on behalf of BTR? You could get a box of cards to sell at your school, club, workplace or local Christmas fair. They will be sent to you on a sale or return basis.

Go to: www.braintumourresearch.org/christmascards or call 01908 867200. Alternatively, purchase online via the eBay page www.ebay.co.uk/usr/braintumourresearch

Button Batteries Are A Serious Health Risk

Great Ormond Street Hospital has warned parents about the dangers of button batteries as the number of children admitted to hospital after swallowing them has dramatically risen.

The hospital says that on average, they treat one child every month for swallowing one of the tiny batteries, often used in electronic toys, hearing aids, watches and calculators. They can cause terrible health problems, including burning through tissue if they become stuck in the oesophagus, which can happen within as little as 15 minutes.

Children have had to endure operations to remove the batteries and there is also a danger of death if the acid erodes a blood vessel. Parents should watch for danger signs such as vomiting, difficulties in swallowing, choking and chest infections.

If you think your child may have swallowed a battery, you should take your child to the hospital immediately.

Late School Entry Delayed Plans for summer-born children to start school a year later are to be delayed over fears that it will give parents an unfair advantage to win a place at the most popular schools.

The Government announced last year that it would change the rules, so that children born between 1 April and 31 August could start primary school a year later. Academics have suggested that delaying entry would close the attainment gap.

However, the changes have been delayed over concerns that parents of summer-born children could apply twice for the same school. Schools minister Nick Gibb said: “We need to ensure that parents do not use the flexibilities as a mechanism by which to gain an unfair advantage in the admissions system.�

November - December 2016

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

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Ed’s Reading Room

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Winter book selection.

Encouraging

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free book review website www.EdontheWeb.com.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Pugly Solves a Crime by Pamela Butchart (Nosy Crow £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Pugly dreams of being a brilliant detective so when things start mysteriously disappearing, particularly when there is a guinea pig-napping, it is time for Pugly to get into action. Clem the cat wants to be part of Pugly’s investigations but this is not what Pugly had in mind. Will it help if Pugly wears his detective hat? Will he be able to get to the bottom of the crimes?’

The Pocket Dog by Holly Webb (Scholastic £5.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Kitty is feeling rather left out as her friends are very taken with the new girl in their class. Not only is she new but she’s funny and exciting and really cool. At least Kitty has Frankie, the dog she adores, to cheer her up at home. Frankie is so small he can fit into a pocket, but he’s got a big heart. When Kitty starts to be mean to her old friend Bella she knows it is wrong but she can’t help herself. Can Frankie help to bring the friends back together?’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

It Wasn’t Me by Michael Bond (Doubleday £9.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Harry Manners is a very unusual boy. He doesn’t think there is anything unusual about him – he’s just inquisitive about, well, everything. He is happy with his Max Masters comics and his imaginary pet pig but in the meantime drives his parents and teachers to distraction. At home, at school and even in church you just never know what might be about to happen.’

Poppy Pym and the Double Jinx

by Laura Wood (Scholastic £6.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Poppy’s life in the circus is quite exciting but now she also has her new life in school. When the town hall burns down, St Smithen’s School is asked to host a production of Macbeth. There follows a series of disasters, some just plain mysterious but some rather ghostly. It’s up to super sleuth Poppy and her friends to investigate the strange events and discover the truth.’

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

See Maggie’s latest ebooks at www.WalkWalk.co.uk.

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Families Gloucestershire

Character building: help children become strong adults

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Nelson Mandela.

What we say and do when our children make mistakes or experience setbacks has a major impact on how they learn to cope with challenges and can help them develop resilience.

By Dr Linda Mallory The word ‘resilience’ comes from the Latin word ‘resilio,’ meaning to jump back. In a recent speech, Labour Shadow Education Secretary, Tristram Hunt, talked about the importance of being able to overcome adversity and setbacks and stated “as our young people face growing rivalry for jobs, high-status apprenticeships and the best university places, it becomes more and more important for schools to coach pupils about character.”

It is useful if resilience is facilitated at school but fostering resilience starts with the way in which parents help their children make decisions and choices.

Here are five ways in which we can foster resilience in our children: Teach Problem Solving Engage children in working out how they can handle challenges.

Give them the opportunity to think about what works and what doesn’t. When parents always provide all the answers, this can get in the way of children being able to develop their own problem-solving skills and mastery.

To promote problem-solving, ask “how” not “why” questions.

For instance, if a child spills a drink, asking “How are we going to clear up your drink?” is a more strategic question than “Why

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

November - December 2016

Education

Resilience did you spill your drink?” “Why” questions can infer blame and lead to a child feeling guilt and shame.

Rather than always answering our children’s questions, start saying “I’m not sure, how can we work this out or find out?” Asking problem-solving questions helps children learn to tolerate uncertainty and think about ways to deal with potential challenges.

Encourage Risk Taking Naturally, parents want to keep their children safe but eliminating all risk removes our children’s lives of challenge. The key is to expose children to appropriate risks and teach them the essential skills required to handle them.

Giving children age-appropriate freedom helps them learn their own limits. Observe and notice children when they are doing something which involves an element of risk or independence. Ask questions like “I noticed you did that all by yourself… what helped you?” This helps focus children on the competencies they need and the qualities of persistence and curiosity required to take risks.

Let Them Make Lots of Mistakes Failure is not the end of the world. It can help our children work out what to do next and make better decisions in future.

By asking children what they have learned and what they would do differently next time, they learn that it is okay to make mistakes and focus instead on the process of decision making, rather than the outcome.

Help Children Manage Emotions The management of emotions is key in resilience. It’s really important to help children feel that all emotions are okay, including anger, frustration and fear. When children are experiencing powerful emotions, ask them what they need. This supports them by acknowledging their feelings, and encourages them to think through how to handle their emotions.

Model Resilience Being a role model is possibly the most important aspect of helping build resilience. Children learn from observing the behaviour of their parents. When we are calm and present in testing situations, this helps our children regulate their own emotions. When we make mistakes as parents, it is good to be honest and open, own up to them and share with our children what we have learned.

Buckinghamshire Gloucestershire CEM 11+ EXAM GROUP TUITION • Year 5 and Year 4 - small group courses (supported by 1 to 1 tuition) • Groups run by professional tutor and published author, Philip McMahon • Our own high quality resources for tuition and homework • Sunday available Courses Saturdaycourses and Wednesday • Proven results

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

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

Book Now For 11 Plus Tutoring Academy Parents wishing to help their children prepare for Gloucestershire’s 11+ examination are advised to register early for group courses for Year 5 beginning in September 2017.

Courses are held in Charlton Kings, Cheltenham. They are run by a published author of very popular 11 Plus books who has many years experience of preparing hundreds of children for the 11 Plus.

Free trials are available any week.

There is an option to switch course day if you are unable to attend a particular day.

Resilience helps children cope with the ups and downs of childhood and adolescence and become strong adults able to navigate challenge and change.

The courses have an excellent record supported by testimonials and teach over 100 children weekly. The courses include periodic progress tests, the opportunity to do mock exams and also provide guidance and feedback to parents.

Dr Linda Mallory is an Educational Psychologist, parent coach and mother of two boys. www.thewhyparent.com

Please contact Philip email:11plustutoringacademy@gmail. com or call 07734469495

November - December 2016

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

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Education

Tutoring: What To Expect

Whether it is to prepare for exams or improve a struggling child’s confidence, a tutor can provide a significant boost to learning. Yet finding a decent one can be a test in itself. Here is how to find the best one for your child…

By Liat Hughes Joshi

Plan ahead where possible The best tutors may well have waiting lists, so if you know your child will need support for exams or moving to secondary school, begin your search early.

Ask around Word-of-mouth is often the most effective way to find a good tutor. Ask parents you know and trust for recommendations.

Consider agencies

If your requests for recommendations draw a blank, a wellestablished tutoring agency could be the answer. Reputable agencies will vet tutors’ credentials and should match you and your child to someone with a similar style.

Don’t be shy about checking how they work Ask questions even if you have had a recommendation from other parents. Are they a teacher/former teacher and if so where did they work? How long have they been tutoring for and what is their track record like?

Group tutoring There are increasing numbers of tuition centres offering group classes, both independent companies and chains. These can work out cheaper per hour but your child will not get the same one-on-one attention, and it is vital to check that those in the group work on the same things at roughly the same level.

Find out the local going rate Expect to pay anything between £20 and £65 an hour. More expensive does not necessarily mean better.

Anyone can become a tutor so do your homework Anybody can set up as and call themselves a tutor, even if they’ve never taught anyone anything - there’s no regulation, which means checking credentials and qualifications is vital.

One-on-one tutors should be Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checked (formerly known as CRB checking) – if they aren’t, then be wary.

Arrange a trial lesson Many tutors will offer your child a trial lesson - this lets you get a feel for whether the tutor and your child gel and whether their teaching style is going to work for you both.

Get more information about tutoring from Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.uk/tutoring Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting’ (Summersdale).

Get Your Child To Use Maths In Their Day-To-Day Life With our National Young Mathematicians’ Award returning soon, we want more children than ever to be confident and excited about maths! Here are a couple of top tips for inspiring maths at home: Bring maths to life with fun and engaging ways to learn new skills. Baking, measuring objects and budgeting at the shops are great ways for your child to be hands on with maths.

Ask questions during homework time: Why? How do you know? Are you sure? The more you can challenge your child to convince you of their reasoning, the more you will build skills such as problem solving from an early age. Be sure to praise them for their efforts afterwards, too!

For more advice, support, news and views on maths, take a look at our blog - www.explorelearning.co.uk/blog/category/maths/ 6

Families Gloucestershire

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

November - December 2016

Education Get Christmassy With Maths And Keep Kids Engaged Over The Holidays Whether you are preparing for the 11 Plus or SATs, it is important not to let your child’s Maths skills slip over the seasonal holidays…KSOL’s 11plus tutors are here to help!

By Julia Massey, Lead tutor at KSOL Christmas preparations are full of exciting Maths based opportunities. From decorating, wrapping and buying presents to baking Christmas delights, you will easily find ways to keep your child’s mind ticking over: 1. Keep a countdown! Work out the days, hours, minutes (or even seconds) until Santa’s arrival. What is the length of time between Christmas Day and the New Year?

2. To get the whole family involved, there is nothing like baking! Find a recipe for mince pies or gingerbread men and alter the ‘number to bake’ so your child has to work out the new quantities for each ingredient. For more ideas, we have provided a Christmas activity for gingerbread men!

3. You can also bring money exercises into the mix by working out overall cost per recipe, individual ingredients and the end cost per treat. You could even create a budget for buying Christmas presents and bring speed/distance/time into the equation by working out when or if people will receive their gifts in time for the big day!

See www.ksol.co.uk for course details

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

KSOL’s Christmas Activity Gingerbread Man Recipe Makes 1 gingerbread man

. 18g plain flour . 5g unsalted butter . 9g soft brown sugar . 1tsp ginger 1. How many grams of sugar would you need to make 10 gingerbread men?

2. How many gingerbread men could you make with 360 grams of flour?

3. At a party, there are a total of 16 gingerbread men and Esha, Matt and Oliver somehow manage to eat them all! Matt eats 4 more than Esha and Oliver. Esha eats 2 more than Oliver. How many gingerbread men did each person have?

Answers: 1) 90g. 2) 20 Men. 3)Matt=10. Esha=4. Oliver=2 November - December 2016

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

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Health Quick Tips To Combat Seasonal Affective Disorder

By Radhika Holmstrom •

Make sure you’re getting at least 10 minutes of natural daylight every day – even on a gloomy day, it is still bright enough to ‘reset’ your body clock and stop the wintry feeling of constant jetlag.

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A light-up alarm clock is a gentler way to ease everyone into the day.

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If you or your kids just can’t get moving, and are feeling weepy, think about upgrading to a full-scale ‘dawn simulator’ which radiates intense light because that is the best way of tackling Seasonal Affective Depression.

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Make sure they’re eating properly, and in particular getting enough iron because that helps give them more energy.

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Outdoor exercise will also help lift their mood and make them feel less sluggish.

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Exercise (indoor or outdoor) will also help tire them out physically. Even if they already seem tired, their bodies need the workout!

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A good bedtime routine isn’t just for toddlers – we all need to wind down before bed.

Find brilliant brain-food breakfast ideas at Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.uk/breakfast Radhika Holmstrom has a strong background in health journalism.

She has also written for many consumer and specialist magazines.

Whilst she focuses on health, parenting and learning issues, she has also written widely on environmental and ethical issues.

The great outdoors: fresh air will do evrybody good

Energy Levels

Even lively kids can lose their get up and go as winter draws in. Here’s how to maximise your family’s energy levels…

By Liat Hughes Joshi Consider a ‘wake up gently’ alarm clock Swap the shock of sudden, loud alarms and bright lights switching on for an alarm clock that mimics sunrise by gradually increasing lighting levels.

Maximise sleep The NHS recommends 11 hours sleep for a five-year-old, reducing steadily down to 9.5 hours by the age of 11. Work back from when they need to get up to determine bedtimes.

Make hearty but healthy breakfasts Swap sugar-loaded cereals for something warming and energyboosting, such as fruity porridge or scrambled eggs.

Put some lively music on!

If it is gloomy outside and everyone is half asleep…liven things up with mood-enhancing tunes. Music is a brilliant pick-me-up!

Walk to (and from) school If time and distance allows, leaving the car behind and walking will help ensure children are fully awake for their first lessons of the day. Or park your car a bit further away.

Watch out for ‘end-of-term-itis’ exhaustion Many children get a build up of tiredness, which can lead to a condition lightheartedly called ‘end-of-term-itis’, involving tears and tantrums aplenty by December. Fend it off with quieter afternoons and weekends along with sensible bed times.

Winter blues: even little ones can feel a bit low sometimes 8

Families Gloucestershire

Get outside whatever the weather Whilst you may all benefit from downtime after a busy week, even an hour of fresh air and activity will do everyone good.

Remember there is no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.

More information: www.familiesonline.co.uk/sleep Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and author.

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

November - December 2016

Christmas Christmas Cookies In A Jar This is a lovely gift as the jar can be used again and it is full of yummy, Christmassy biscuits too. Perfect for family, friends and even teachers...

You will need: To decorate: 250g soft butter or margarine Icing sugar 140g caster sugar Water 1 egg Lemon juice 2 tsp vanilla extract Large Kilner jar 300g plain flour Ribbon and decorations Quarter tsp ground cinnamon It is widely accepted that experiences bring people more happiness than do Tiny pinch of ground star anise possessions. Eastnor Pottery & The Flying Quarter tsp nutmeg Potter in Herefordshire has been offering

pottery and clay experiences to their Method:

customers, old and young for well over Cream together the 20 years. Making a pot on the potter’s butter and sugar, then wheel is both incredibly satisfying and add the yolk from the therapeutic. In order to achieve a ‘good egg and the vanilla shape’, the activity demands total extract. Gradually add concentration. So much so, there is little the flour and keep capacity to dwell on anything other than mixing until it forms a the mud in hand. Christmas is the perfect ball of dough. Kids can opportunity to treat your loved ones to a do this with their unique present with an Eastnor Pottery hands.

The Gift Of Making

Next, roll the dough out of 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, 190 C 375 F).

experience gift voucher. Prices start at £15.00 and a £25.00 voucher will entitle the recipient to make a pot on the potter's wheel inclusive of painting, firing and glazing. Tel: 01531 633886 or Email: admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk

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.

Cheese Palmiers These quick and easy cheesy biscuits taste delicious and are great as a gift if you pop them in a little box.

You will need: Method: Place the pastry flat on floured baking tray. Grate the cheese on the large Packet of readymade puff pastry 100g cheese of your choice – gruyere or cheddar or experiment with the different coloured cheeses.

side of the grate so it is not too fine, then scatter it evenly across the pastry.

Roll the pastry up from each end, so that the rolls meet in the middle. Press lightly.

With a knife that is not too sharp cut slices through thr pastry, about 0.5 cm wide.

You will get quite a few out of the pastry.

Place each on its side on a baking tray, leaving plenty of room as they will expand as they cook. Place in a hot over (200 C, 400 F Gas 6) for 10-12 minutes until golden.

Leave to cool. To turn these into a lovely gift, take a box from an old packet of biscuits or crackers, cut off the top and cover the box with Christmas paper. Place the Palmiers inside at an angle. Cover the top with clear plastic or cling film, then add a pretty ribbon or bow on top.

November - December 2016

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

9

Clubs and Classes Mastering making sounds: playing an instrument can offer huge benefits

Benefits Of Being A Little Musician Learning an instrument can have benefits for your child that you may not have considered.

By Sally J Hall Discover the benefits that can be gained from your little musician learning to play their favourite instrument...

An improvement in social skills Playing music is a great way to make friends. Not only are children who play instruments encouraged to join groups and orchestras at school but you’ll often find them getting together outside of school hours too.

They have improved motor skills Creating notes from an instrument, whether it’s brass, woodwind, percussion or strings, helps a child fine-tune motor skills. Minute movements of the hands and fingers are believed to help create neurological pathways in the brain

– such as performing a simple tune – is filled with confidence.

As their skill improves and practice pays off, your child will see a huge confidence boost, which will help them to become a more self-assured as they grow.

Persistence is taught Learning an instrument is a slow, sometimes arduous task and the traits that children must acquire are patience and the ability to practice. These skills are transferable to many other tasks they will come up against later in life.

Creativity and a sense of achievement

Once a child has mastered making sounds from their instrument, they often begin to experiment. Although they may never be an improvisational genius, this leads to creativity, which in turn creates a sense of achievement.

Find out more about music classes and the benefits from Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.uk/music

A confidence boost Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail.

There’s no doubt that a child who feels they can manage a task

Inspiring Creative Courage Building your child’s confidence is the key benefit of sending him or her to Stagecoach Performing Arts, according to the established chain of theatre schools which provides singing, dancing and acting classes. An early stages stream for children aged four to six offers young children the chance to become more confident and to develop lifelong skills within a safe, fun and welcoming environment. Early Stages classes last 90 minutes and are held weekly during term time. Older children and teens can explore their creativity as they develop singing, dancing and acting skills in engaging performing arts classes which run for three hours per week in term time. School holiday workshops are also available.

Contact your local Stagecoach school for more information:

Gloucester Tel: 0117 401 3494 Cheltenham Tel: 01242 252415 Cirencester Tel: 01452 306912 Please mention you found the contact details in Families Magazine 10

Families Gloucestershire

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

November - December 2016

Music To Young Children’s Ears

Clubs and Classes

It Is Show Time The Mander Hall Academy of Performing Arts aims to develop skills in drama, song and dance leading to musical theatre and drama examinations, festivals and a final show at the end of each summer term.

The main aims of the Academy are: 1. Opening young minds to the Arts 2. Developing imagination, individual skills and confidence 3. Sharing these skills by working as a team in a relaxed yet disciplined environment.

4. Having fun!

Kate Hall and Sheila Mander bring a wealth of knowledge going back over 40 years. Every Saturday during term-time they host a three-hour session of singing, dancing and acting in Cheltenham. Visit www.manderhallacademy.co.uk

Happy vibes: playing small percussion Angie Coates, the founder of Monkey Music, explains some of the reasons why young children benefit from music…

The ear is the first organ to develop fully in the womb and at 5 months an unborn baby will be able to hear the world around him. Unborn babies take great comfort in their mother’s voice (yes, and dad’s too) and they will remember music and songs, that they have heard in the womb for up to 12 months after they have been born.

A growing baby will thrive on ‘happy vibes’ and you can pass on those nourishing vibes as you listen to music and songs that you enjoy. Unborn babies hear lower sounds better than high pitched sounds so you may consider playing music with a lower frequency, although the most important thing is that you are enjoying it – either by relaxing quietly or by singing like a diva.

There is no real need to strap yourself up with the headphones on your tummy – your baby will hear the music anyway and you might just startle him.

From very early on at Monkey Music, our babies are developing their musical ear. Through singing simple action songs they learn to de-code language, interact with each other and expand on their numerical skills.

As toddlers our young monkeys love dancing and find their new friends endlessly fascinating. They adore marching around the room in time to the music as they learn to listen to what the music is asking them to do. Further physical skills are developed by playing small percussion instruments in the Monkey Music Band. Our fledgling band members learn to take turns and to watch their teacher conduct – great practise for 'sitting comfortably' before starting school!

There are many major milestones at Monkey Music – each one puts in place a stepping stone which encourages your child to reach their full potential. Come and join in the fun!

Monkey Music has classes across Cheltenham and Gloucester.

To book your FREE TRIAL CLASS – call 07768 457403 November - December 2016

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

Saturday classes now open!

Special offer! Anyone joining Monkey Music mentioning Families Gloucestershire magazine gets membership for £1 (instead of the usual £17!)

Call 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in the

January/February issue of Families Gloucestershire

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

11

Where’s Santa

Please mention you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire magazine

How To Throw A Memorable Party The thought of planning a Christmas party for family and friends can send us into a spin! Follow our tips and advice for the best party ever… By Sally J Hall 1. Start early It is never too early to start planning. Keep lists of ideas and recipes in a note book. Practice cooking any new dishes and order any hard to get items well in advance.

2. Set the date – and tell people Set the date and let others know; make sure you include start and end times and details the guests need to know.

Avoid clashing with other parties. Consider the quiet time between Christmas and New Year.

3. Set a budget Do not let costs get out of hand! Shop at a budget supermarket, make food and freeze it and get decorations and napkins from a 99p store. Ask guests to bring a bottle.

4. Think about who to invite List the people you would like to invite and then cut down to what’s manageable.

5. Creating the mood Make your home nice with flowers, coffee and scents and stock the bathrooms. Make it warm but not too hot and have a festive play list.

6. Making guests feel welcome As your guests arrive, get one of the kids to take coats to a bedroom, have some drinks ready and some easy canapés.

Don’t forget snacks for the kids!

7. Get your house – and yourself – ready About a week before, give your home a good clean. On the day get family to help out so you can enjoy the party too!

And finally…

If your guests will be drinking, think about how they will get home (they can of course choose designated drivers) and organise local taxis for those who would rather leave their car at home. If you have the space, you may want to offer a bed to a few people overnight.

Think about giving them a party bag with a small bottle of mineral water and a piece of Christmas cake or a biscotti in it. They will thank you in the morning!

Get more fantastic party ideas from Families Online: www.familiesonline.co.uk/party Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail.

12

Families Gloucestershire

Santa Claus Is In Town

It is that time of year again when our thoughts return to the North Pole and who has been good this year. Here is where you can track down Santa and tell him what is on your Christmas list...

Santa’s Grotto at Wyevale Garden Centres A delight for children of all ages and grown-ups too 12 November - 24 December* Wyevale Garden Centre Cheltenham, Evesham Road, GL50 4SJ Tel: 0844 288 5177 Wyevale Garden Centre Gloucester, Bath Road, GL10 3DP Tel: 0844 288 5178 www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk/events *Dates may vary per centre.

Santa’s Farmyard Grotto at Cattle Country Children will be taken on a tractor and trailer ride around the farm before being dropped off at Santa’s Farmyard Grotto in the Animal Experience Barn. Each child will receive a present from Santa.

26-27 November, 3-4, 10-11 and 17-23 December. From 10.00am.

Cattle Country Adventure Park, Berkeley Heath Farm, Berkeley GL13 9EW www.cattlecountry.co.uk Clearwell Caves Christmas Fantasy ‘Evie’s Aeroplane’ 26 November - 3 January Clearwell Caves, The Rocks, Coleford, GL16 8JR www.clearwellcaves.com 10am – 5pm (last entry). Cost: £10.00 per person (adults and children, includes a present from Father Christmas for children between 2-14 yrs).

Santa Cruises at Gloucester Waterways Museum Sail with Santa, presents for the children, hot mince pies and festive

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

November - December 2016

a is ant at S rld g ere drinks. Also includes free arts & crafts wh he wo ta.or e Se ss t dsan activities and a museum visit. o a r r ac .no w 10-11 and 17-14 December ww Gloucester Waterways Museum, Llanthony Warehouse, Gloucester Docks 01452 318200 www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/gloucester-waterways-museum £9.50 per person

Where’s Santa

Breakfast or afternoon tea with Father Christmas at WWT Slimbridge Wetlands Centre Join the elves for breakfast or afternoon tea, visit Santa in his magical grotto, ice gingerbread men, toast marshmallows, relax with Christmas storytelling - and don't forget to send a letter to the North Pole at the special post office!

17-23 December WWT Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, Bowditch, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT GWSR Santa Specials www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge Choose to start your Christmas adventure from Cheltenham Race Severn Valley Railway Santa Steam Specials Course by steam train all the way to Winchcombe (or the North Pole!)

An atmospheric steam train ride from Kidderminster along the Severn through the long tunnel, and visit Santa and his elves in his grotto.

Valley to Arley to visit Santa in his grotto. Presents for all fare paying Alternatively travel from Toddington station by a 1950's diesel rail car children. with Santa and his young elves on board the train, spending lots of time sitting with each family.

5 - 24 December - selected dates Santa Steam Special The Severn Valley Railway, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 20-24 December 01562 757900 www.svr.co.uk £16 adult and £15 child (includes complimentary mince pies, biscuits, fruit, hot and cold drinks and present for child) Meet Father Christmas and Mrs Christmas at Westonbirt Part of Westonbirt’s Enchanted Christmas, Father Christmas, dressed in Santa Rail Car Special traditional green, will be making an appearance from 5pm each 10-11, 17-18 and 20-21 December evening for children to share their Christmas wishes and be given a £14 adult and £14 child (includes complimentary mince pies, biscuits, small token gift. You'll find him in his chalet along with his helpful fruit, hot and cold drinks and present for child) elves, while Mrs Christmas will be hosting seasonal storytelling near to www.gwsr.com the restaurant.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening from Newark Park Christmas Celebrations weekend 25 November to 18 December

The House will be decorated with foliage and trees from the Newark Westonbirt, Tetbury, GL8 8QS www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt estate plus festive music and a seasonal trail for children. Young visitors Booking essential for Saturdays due to high demand. have the chance to meet Father Christmas and receive an early Christmas gift Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7PZ www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ newark-park 3-4 December Entrance plus £3.50 per child to see Santa Winter Wonderland at Prinknash Bird and Deer Park Children can visit Santa in his hand crafted Ash sleigh and meet the Park’s own resident reindeer Rudolf, Prancer and Comet. Nativity Scene in the Famous Wendy House, Christmas Fairy, face painting and a creative activities area.

Prinknash Road, Matson, Gloucester GL4 8EU 01452 812 727 www.thebirdpark.co.uk 26-27 November, 3-4, 10-11 and 16-24 December 2.30pm – 6.00pm. Advance ticket bookings only.

10% OFF ENTRY WITH THIS VOUCHER

Winter Wonderland for pre-schoolers Offering 1-4 year olds the opportunity to visit Santa in his Wonderful Winter Toddler Land whilst the older children are at school.

6-8, 13- 15 December 11.00am – 1.00pm. Can book online or on the door.

Christmas in Puzzlewood Come and dress up as Little Red Riding Hood or the Woodcutter and make your way through the enchanted woods to Grandma’s house. On the way you can read the story and look out for someone naughty peaking out! Once at her house you will find she has a very special visitor, Santa!

17-24 December.

10-00am - 3.30pm.

Puzzlewood, Perrygrove Road, Coleford, GL16 8QB 01594 833187 www.puzzlewood.net November - December 2016

01285 885570 WWW.MAGICLAND.CO.UK * WITH THIS VOUCHER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 31ST DECEMBER 2016. PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED AND THIS VOUCHER MAY ONLY BE USED ONCE. FAMGLOS

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

13

What’s On

Please check with the venue in case details have changed and also please note that with some venues, it is cheaper to pay in advance on-line.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON GLOUCESTER This year’s Gloucester Christmas Parade theme is based on the new play ‘Breaking The Ice’ – a true story about a polar bear who befriended a husky. The parade travels along Southgate Street, Westgate Street and College Street finishing in Gloucester Cathedral.

Sunday 20 November. From 4:30pm.

CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 1QA 0844 576 2210 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

CHELTENHAM families can look forward to outdoor entertainment from stilt walkers, jugglers and Christmas characters ahead of the Christmas lights being turned on in the town centre at 7pm by Father Christmas.

Thursday 24 November. From 4pm.

20 December. Father Christmas Needs A Wee At every house Father Christmas eats and drinks the tasty treats that have been left for him. But when he reaches number ten he realises that he’s forgotten to do something rather important and he really, really, really needs a WEE! £13.00. 2.00pm.

CHELTENHAM – THE BREWERY The Brewery’s Christmas Party lights switch-on including snow machine.

Saturday 3 December. 5pm – 8pm.

TEWKESBURY Great day out for all the family with market stalls, activities for children, fairground rides and a chance to see Santa switching on the lights. Lights switched on at 5pm.

Sunday 20 November. 12.00pm-6.30pm.

BOURTON ON THE WATER Lighting of the beautiful Christmas Tree in the river Windrush at 6.30pm.

Friday 2 December

14 December. Lily and the Little Snow Bear. Lily lives with Grandpa in a pretty little cottage somewhere in the coun­tryside. Today she is very excited. There are just two more sleeps until Christmas and it’s snowing already! 10.30am. £10.00. Family £32.00.

20 December. Autism Friendly Screening: The Polar Express [U]

20 December. Festive Family Film: The Polar Express Both dates feature a twinkling grotto, an enormous Christmas tree STROUD CHRISTMAS GOODWILL and a special visit from Father Christmas EVENING before the film, this promises an afternoon of Throughout Stroud Town Centre there will be festive cheer for the whole family. Meet Santa street performers, lantern-making and from 4pm. Film starts 5pm. For more procession, christmas fair, mulled wine and information visit web site. £7.00 (include a Santa’s magic toy shop . present from Santa).

Friday 2 December. 4.00pm - 9.00pm.

18 - 21 January. Sleeping Beauty THEATRE AND PANTOMIME Chase away those winter blues and be THE BACON THEATRE transported to a fairytale world with a Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, beautiful princess, a handsome prince, good Cheltenham, GL51 6HE 01242 258002 fairies and one very nasty fairy. Lots of boos, www.bacontheatre.co.uk and lots of laughter. 7.00pm. Weekend matinee 2.30pm.

NEW Kids’ Cooking Classes and Parties!

Children love to cook! Join us with your pre-schooler for fun baking classes and crafts on Mondays or Fridays. Suitable for ages 3 - 5.

Call Fiona: 07475883019 or visit

www.cookerydoodledoo.com 14

Families Gloucestershire

THE CHELTENHAM PLAYHOUSE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG 01242 522852 www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk 16 - 24 December. The Snow Queen This enchanting new version of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale features new songs, a sprinkling of magic and an exceedingly humorous retelling of this timeless story that will melt your heart. £9.00 to £15.00.

23 December. The Snowman plus Paddington Bear’s First Concert A screening of The Snowman, with a live orchestral accompaniment. 1.30pm £15.00 £30.00.

THE EVERYMAN THEATRE 7 - 10 Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ 01242 512 515 www.everymantheatre.org.uk 25 November – 8 January. Jack And The Beanstalk Tweedy The Clown and William Elliott as Dame Trott return for the Everyman’s most gigantic pantomime yet. £5.00 - £24.00. There will be a relaxed performance on Thursday 5 January. 10.00am.

THE ROSES THEATRE Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX 01684 295074 www.rosestheatre.org 3 December - 7 January: Robin Hood & The Babes In The Wood A gallant hero, a feisty damsel, a villainous baddie to boo off stage and plenty of comedy slapstick, dazzling costumes and fairytale set. £13.00 - £25.00.

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES

Christmas Events At Cookery Doodle Doo, Cheltenham

CORINIUM MUSEUM Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 2BX 01285 655611 www.coriniummuseum.cotswold.gov.uk

Christmas Mince Pies 5, 8 and 9 December. Make and eat these tasty Christmas treats!

19 December. Stretchy Raindeer.

Celebrate the festive season by making one of Santa’s reindeer. 10 - 11am. £2.00 per child.

Sunday Pudding Club: Orange & Ginger Trifle 11 and 18 December. A Christmas classic updated for the young chef!

21 December. Stories With Santa.

Santa will be reading some special stories written at his home in the North Pole.

11.15am and 12.00pm. £3 per child.

MUSEUM IN THE PARK Christmas Card Stratford Park, Stratford Road, Stroud GL5 4AF 12, 15 and 16 December. Cookie 01453 763394 www.museuminthepark.org.uk cards with personalised messages and 3 - 4 December. Christmas Weekend. A beautiful decorations. medley of traditional Winter delights will be

on offer before the Museum closes for its Book now: 07475883019

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

November - December 2016

What’s On

Please mention you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire magazine

December Deep Clean. There will be something for all ages, from lantern or wreath making to carol singing, card making and more. 11.00am - 5.00pm.

BABIES AND TODDLERS LILLIPUT CONCERTS St Andrew’s Church, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL50 1SP 21 November. Carousel Clarinet Duo 19 December Festive Brass. Live music in a relaxed environment for babies and toddlers and their adults. 40 minutes of music followed by delicious freshly made cake. In November they welcome back the Carousel Clarinet Duo, along with some saxophone guests. 10.30am – 12 midday.

For more information visit www.facebook. com/LilliputConcerts

Gloucestershire Slingmeets

SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge Slimbridge Cygnets – WWT Toddler Group 8 November. Toad Hall Talk.

22 November. Super Swans.

Arrive at 10.30 for activities to start at 11am.

Duration approx. 30 minutes. £1.50 per child.

These sessions must be booked in advance.

THE WILSON Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum, Clarence Street,Cheltenham GL50 3JT 01242 237431 www.thewilson.org.uk First Wednesday of every month.

Tots and Tales. Join in this fun session of storytelling and arty activities for pre-school children. £2 per child. 10.30am - 11.15am.

Cheltenham Children’s Centre Baby Groups

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

11.30am at Cirencester Baptist Church, Coxwell Street, Cirencester.

Contact: bumpsandbabes@ cirenceternct.org.uk BEST Breastfeeding Support: Every Thursday, 10.00am – 11.30am at Springboard Children’s Centre, Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU. Contact: breastfeeding@ cirencesternct.org.uk

GLOUCESTER AND Every Monday at St. Margaret’s CHELTENHAM SLING MEETS For Hall, GL51 3NU 10.00am-11.30am times and venues please check (0-18 months) www.facebook.com/ Every Tuesday at Rowanfield cheltenhamandgloucesterslinglibrary Children Centre, GL51 8HY STROUD SLING MEETS 1.00pm-2.30pm (mums to be and Parliament Street Children’s Centre, pre-walking babies) Old Bisley Rd, Stroud Every Wednesday at Gardners GLOUCESTER BRANCH Lane Children Centre, GL51 9JW Gloucestershire Gloucester Breakfast Club: Every Breastfeeding 10.00am -11.30am (0-12 months) Wednesday. 10:00am – 11:30am.

Supporters’ Network Every Thursday at Hester’s Way Harvester Restaurant, Salmons Leap, Support Groups Children Centre, GL51 0ES Quedgeley,Gloucester, GL2 4NF. All 1.15pm -2.45pm All groups are free drop-in sessions. you can eat breakfast £4.99 plus a Every Friday at Oakwood Dads, grandparents and supportive free hot drink! Open to all, members Children Centre, GL52 5QH friends are welcome too. Groups are and non-members. Contact 10.00am - 11.30am All groups are informal and friendly. You don’t coordinator.gloucester@nct.org.uk open to babies 0-12 months and need to have a breastfeeding Relax, Stretch & Breathe their parents/carers. problem to attend but if you need Classes: Every Monday in term support, one of our trained peer time. For more information visit NCT Courses

supporters or the Breastfeeding www.nct.org.uk.uk/gloucester/ CHELTENHAM & NORTH Counsellor present will be happy to courses COTSWOLD BRANCH speak to you.

First Aid Gloucester Bumps and Babies Monday. 10.00 – 12.00 noon: Spaces are limited so please email Every Tuesday from 10.30am-12.00 MOBS in Dursley, Parish Room, St Louisa at: noon at Salvation Army Hall, James the Great Church, Dursley events@nctcheltenham.org Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 GL11 4JE Tuesday.

1QU. You don’t STROUD BRANCH 10.00am – 12.00 noon: BAPS, need to be a member to come NCT Signature antenatal course Hesters Way Children’s Centre, Dill along, it is for all non-mobile babies For more details see www.nct.org.uk/ Avenue,Cheltenham GL51 0ES and their carers and our fabulous courses or contact your local course Wednesday. 10.30 – 12.00 noon: bumps too! Free parking accessible organiser on 0208 752 2494 or BABES, Noah’s Ark Children’s from Triar Way. Contact: bookings3f@nct.org.uk Centre, York Road, Priors Park, Gloucester@nct.org.uk NCT Early Days/Postnatal Tewkesbury, GL20 5HU course For more details see www.

Thursday . 9.30am – 11.30am: Safe Space at Compass Children’s nct.org.uk/courses or contact your CRIBS, Church Hall, St John’s Centre, Coney Hill, GL4 4NA . local course organiser on 0208 752 Church, Churchdown GL3 2DB The ‘Safe Space’ is a friendly 2494 or bookings3f@nct.org.

10.00am – 11.30am: BEST, informal group for peer support and Springboard Children’s Centre, advice about wellbeing. Taking place TETBURY BRANCH Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU on Fridays 10.00am-11.30am come Signature antenatal course For 10.00am – noon: MOBS in Stroud, along for chat, support and access more details see www.nct.org.uk/ Parliament Street Children’s Centre, resources about local services that courses or contact bookings3d@nct.

Bisley Old Road, Stroud GL5 1NL may be able to help. Anyone org.uk uk 12.30pm – 2.00pm: GLOBES, welcome, both new and expectant NCT Drop Ins Gardners Lane Children’s Centre, parents. The group is free and child CIRENCESTER BRANCH Cheltenham GL51 9JW. friendly. No need to be a NCT Bumps, Babes & Toddlers: Full information on our groups is member. Further information go to Every Wednesday 10.00am available at www.gbsn.org.uk www.nct.org.uk/Gloucester or visit November - December 2016

LILLIPUTCONCERTS

@LILLIPUTCONCERT

our Facebook page Facebook.com/ GloucesterNCT Tots on the Move at Tinies Nursery at Gloucester College on Llanthony Road, GL2 5JQ. Every Monday term time only 10.00am -11.30am no need to be a member, come along to meet other mums and their now crawling and walking babies for coffee, chat, messy play and activities. Parking is limited.

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

NCT Nearly New Sales

Stroud NCT Nearly New Sale Archway School Sports centre, Paganhill Estate, Stroud, GL5 4AX 27 November. 11.00am – 12:30pm. For more details email NNS.StroudValleys@nct.org.uk Gloucester NCT Nearly New Sale Longlevens Holy Trinity Church, Church Rd, Gloucester GL2 0AJ 26 November. 10.00am -12.00pm. For more details visit www.facebook.com/ events/1063825727031689/ Tetbury NCT Nearly New Sale St Mary’s Primary School, St Mary’s Road, Tetbury GL8 8BW 12 November. 11.00am -12.30pm. For more details visit www.nct.org.uk/branches/tetbury or email tetbury@nct.org.uk Cheltenham and North Cotswold Nearly New Sale All Saints Academy, Blaisdon Way Cheltenham GL51 0WH 26 November. Toys and Equipment. 10:30am – 12.00 noon.

For more information visit www.nct.org.uk/branches/ cheltenham/nearly-new-sales

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

15

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

Christmas Markets And Fairs ... Discover That Perfect Gift.

Bourton on the Water - Victorian late night shopping evening Famous Christmas tree in the river Windrush, carol singing, children’s rides alongside an array of stalls and street food.

Friday 2 December. late night shopping until 9pm, Christmas tree lights switch on at 6.30pm

stalls selling artisan food, handmade goods, unique gifts, and bespoke fashion items that you will not find on the high street.

Thursday 17 - Sunday 20 November Christmas Market at Hillside Brewery Holly Bush Farm, Ross Road, Longhope GL17 0NG Enjoy a free mince pie & mulled apple juice on arrival in the new indoor barn, then pick up both your Christmas essentials and goodies whilst joining in the Christmassy atmosphere!

Saturday 3 December. 10.00am - 5.00pm

Broadway - Late Night Christmas Shopping A host of festivities for all the family including carol singers, festive food! A great opportunity to shop in independent shops.

Friday 25 November and Friday 2 December. 5:30pm – 8:30pm

Christmas Markets at Taurus Crafts Taurus Crafts, Lydney Park Estate, Lydney GL1 6BU Market showcasing arts, crafts, gifts, decorations, toys, food and drink, featuring local makers and producers. You will even find local fresh cut Cheltenham Christmas Market Christmas trees! Weekends of 3 - 4, 10 - 11 and 17 - 18 December. 10.00am – 5.30pm Traditional wooden chalets line Cheltenham’s Promenade.

Thursday 24 November to Saturday 17 December.

Tewkesbury Christmas Lights Festival and Christmas Markets 10am – 6pm Monday – Wednesday, 10am – 8pm Thursday – Great day out for all the family with market stalls, activities for children, Saturday,11am – 6pm Sundays and fairground rides. You can also post a letter to Father Christmas and everyone gets a reply.

Christmas Fair at Cheltenham College.

Sunday 20 November. From 12 noon.

Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7LD 01242 265694 Over 70 stalls offering an amazing array of treasures.

Sunday 27 November. 10am – 4pm. Tickets: £5. Those buying tickets Christmas Carols & Market at Gloucester Cathedral Visit the spectacular Cathedral Cloisters to browse the seasonal stalls A complimentary glass of 'Fizz' with advance tickets. and listen to bite-sized bursts of festive praise sung on the hour by Gloucester Quays Victorian Christmas Market Choirs of the Cathedral Saturday 10 December. 11.00 am - 4.00pm.

A magical Christmas market boasting over 250 uniquely decorated Charlton Kings Christmas Lights Switch On And Christmas Gift Fair. Outside Charlton Kings library and the Kings Hall.

Friday 2 December. 3pm – 6.30pm.

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Families Gloucestershire

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

November - December 2016