Families Gloucestershire March/April 2017 Issue 37

Issue 37 March/April 2017 FREE

Gloucestershire

St Edward’s Preparatory School Reception: Off To A Great Start... Page 7

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

News & Views

Editor’s Letter Dear readers

And with the Easter Hols just around the corner, now is the time to start thinking about unplugging your little darlings from whatever electronics they have become attached to and getting them out of the house for some fresh air and good old fashioned fun.

The benefits of being active outside for our physical health and mental well-being are well documented and it is especially important for young children.

WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre has been awarded Gold accolade status from the Visit England, Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme. This is a huge national achievement as the accolade is not given lightly and only a small proportion of visitor attractions receive it every year.

A new species to arrive at Cotswold Wildlife Park is the mysterious Binturong, from the forests of South East Asia, where it spends most of its time in the trees. Otherwise known as the “Bear-Cat”, the Binturong is a strange creature in its habits and appearance. Despite its bulk and relatively slow nature, it is surprisingly agile in the trees and uses its prehensile tail for balance as it moves around looking for its favourite fruits. Should you ever be close enough, you will detect a faint aroma of popcorn emanating from the “Bear-Cat” as he moves about his exhibit near our Reptile House, from a scent gland at the base of his tail. For more information: www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Diane Clifford. Editor 01684 770566 editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

Next issue May/June 2017 Booking Deadline 3 April

www.familiesonline.co.uk

In this issue 2 News & Views

10 Clubs And Classes

4 Education

12 Easter

6 Ed’s Reading Room

14 What’s On Like us on Facebook FamiliesGlos

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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

If you have ever worried about the amount of time your children spend in front of smartphones, computers, consoles and TV, you are certainly not alone. A group of 40 leading authors, educationalists and child-development experts have called for official guidelines on screen use by children up to 12 to be drawn up by recognised authorities on child health and development.

Visit England accolades are available to attractions that are part of the Visitor Attraction Quality Scheme and are allocated through a robust scoring system based on an annual assessment

by Visit England. The highly prized Gold accolade award is reserved for top-scoring attractions and it is thanks to the hard work and commitment of all the staff and volunteers that Slimbridge has achieved this prestigious status. For more information: www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/slimbridge

In this issue we learn how our local schools are making outdoor learning a key part of education. We also present a few ideas on how you can make the most of the outside with your little ones too. So, go on! Get out there and enjoy the great outdoors.

Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesGlos

Call For Official Screen Time Guidance

Slimbridge Scoops Gold

Spring has sprung, the trees are blossoming and the flowers are coming into bloom. The days are getting longer and the weather is feeling warmer.

A 10 day Aviation Scholarship promising older kids the chance to log up to 10 hours flying time is being offered by Cotswold Airport. The Cotswold Airport Aviation Scholarship is open to students from Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire; applicants must be 14 to 18 years of age on 19 March 2017. The scholarship is funded

by Gulf Aviation. Apply online at www.cotswoldairport.com

Playing Outside Could Reduce The Risk Of Short-Sighteness Spending time outdoors as a teenager could reduce the chances of becoming short-sighted as an adult, according to a new study.

The study, by researchers from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine and Kings College London, looked at more than 3,000 people aged 65-plus. The researchers took blood samples, conducted eye examinations and interviewed participants to gauge their levels of exposure to sunlight since early adolescence.

The results found that those with the highest exposure to sunlight in their teenage and young adult years were up to 30% less likely to become myopic or short-sighted.

The paper’s senior author, Professor Astrid Fletcher, said: “We know spending time outdoors can protect against myopia but the reasons why are less clear. Our study showed that exposure to sunlight is likely to be the major factor due to stimulation of physiological factors associated with eye growth, rather than through its action on vitamin D production.”

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

March-April 2017

It is Mother’s Day on Sunday 26 March, so put your thinking cap on and come up with something special. Check out the many attractions across Gloucestershire that are running special Mother’s Day events. At many of them mums go free!

In a letter to The Guardian the group, which includes author Philip Pullman, psychotherapist Susie Orbach, childcare expert Penelope Leach and the former archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, said it also wants to see the creation of a minister for children. This cabinet-level role would assess the impact of all government policies on children’s health and wellbeing.

The letter also called for a kindergartenstyle education for 3 to 7-year olds, which would emphasise emotional and social development and encourage outdoor play.

Parents Believe Mandarin Is Most Useful Non-Europoean Language For Kids To Learn UK parents see Mandarin Chinese as the most important nonEuropean language for their children to learn.

French, Spanish and German were still the top languages of choice but a majority of parents saw value in learning Mandarin.

More than half (56%) of those questioned in a Populus survey commissioned by the Mandarin Excellence Programme (MEP) felt that the language would open their children’s minds to an “exciting and dynamic” culture. 51% also thought that learning Mandarin would boost their kids’ future career prospects.

Mark Herbert, of the British Council, which is backing the MEP along with the UCL Institute Of Education, said: “With the global economy becoming more interconnected and the drive to boost exports, language skills are increasingly vital for work and life.

“Mandarin Chinese is one of the languages that matter most to the UK’s future prosperity. If the UK is to remain competitive on the world stage, we need far more of our young people leaving school with a good grasp of Mandarin in order to successfully work abroad or for businesses here in the UK. Learning Mandarin is also a fascinating process that brings a valuable understanding of Chinese culture,” he added.

March-April 2017

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

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Education

Education

Independent School Open Days Berkhampstead School, Cheltenham Co-ed ages 3 – 11 Saturday 11 March Contact 01242 523263 www.berkhampsteadschool.co.uk Bredon School, Cheltenham

Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 18 Wednesday 15 March Contact 01684 293156 www.bredonschool.org Cheltenham College Prep School Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 13 years Saturday 4 March Contact 01242 522 697 www.cheltenhamcollege.org

Dean Close School, Chelteham Board and day co-ed ages 2 years 9 months to 18 years Saturday 4 March Contact 01242 258079 www.deanclose.org.uk King’s School, Gloucester Co-ed day school ages 3 – 18 years Saturday 11 March www.thekingsschool.co.uk Rendcomb College, Cirencester Board and day co-ed ages 3 – 18 years Friday 3 March – Juniors Saturday 4 March – Seniors Contact 01285 832306 or email www.rendcombcollege.org.uk

St Edward’s School, Cheltenham.

Co-ed 2 – 11 years Friday 28 April Contact 01242 538900 www.stedwards.co.uk Westonbirt Prep School, Tetbury Co-ed Preparatory Day School & Nursery ages 3 – 11 years Saturday 18 March 9.00am-12.00noon Contact 01666 880333 or email www.westonbirtschools.co.uk Wycliffe, Stonehouse Board and day co-ed ages 2 – 18 years Saturday 4 March Contact 01453 820412 or email www.wycliffe.co.uk

AWARD-WINNING

Time To Support Your Child For 11 Plus And Entrance Exams Is your child in or approaching Year 5? Do they have the ambition of going to grammar or independent school? If so, we could be the best possible support for them in the build up to their exam.

With 15 years of experience, we have developed a unique programme for 11+ and entrance exam tuition, enabling us to tailor our support to the specific exams of local schools. We welcome all children on board without a pre-test; we simply want them to feel inspired to learn more through this challenging and rewarding course!

Call 030 3003 4006 to book your free trial. explorelearning.co.uk

HAVE YOU BEEN

FEARLESS TODAY? /explorelearning @exploretutors EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

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Families Gloucestershire

The Magic Of Outdoor Learning If you go down to the woods today – what surprises will you find? On a visit to Dean Close Pre-Prep School, you will find not bears but excited children enjoying the wonderful outdoors and making all sorts of exciting discoveries, says Dr Carolyn Shelley, Headmistress of Dean Close Pre-Prep School.

Schools all over the country are realising the value of taking learning outside, enabling children to connect with nature and providing an important and different type of experience in their educational journey. Here at Dean Close Pre-Prep we are fortunate to have our own ‘Forest School’ which provides children with access to a wide range of planned and childinitiated activities; children are able to collaborate on ‘projects’ such as making animal houses, being creative with the natural objects they find or painting with mud.

There has been much research to show that Forest School is of great benefit to children’s all-round development. Activities such as den building, creating trails, identification of minibeasts, plants and trees encourage critical thinking skills, independence, self-confidence and teamwork in addition to their growth in knowledge, joy and wonder in the natural environment.

Children flourish as they are able to build on their enjoyment of apply these1skills across the curriculum.

DCPPSeach 130 xsession 180mmand Advert_Layout 06/02/2017 11:13 Page 1 Research has also shown that, in our ‘risk-averse’ society, enabling children to assess risk for themselves in the ‘wild’ yet

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

March-April 2017

nettles or using logs and sticks safely to make a shelter. They learn how to make their own sensible and informed decisions – an important life lesson for the future.

As spring is just around the corner, bringing with it the excitement of new growth and new discovery, let’s get our wellies on and take the children out and about to explore the great outdoors. A magical world is waiting. www.deanclose.org.uk

Looking tostartschool?

Open Days 9.00 -11.00 am Saturday 4th March 2017 9.30 -11.30 am Saturday 6th May 2017

Our members regularly attend two types of session: one group session designed to support their exam technique, speed, accuracy, and exciting, new skills such as non-verbal and verbal reasoning; and

another individualised session, mapped to their ability, to help strengthen the core foundations of maths and English. All of this takes place with the support of our expert tutors in centres that are bursting with positive energy so that each child feels confident and excited for their next step.

Spaces for the course get snapped up rather quickly so for more information about our 11+ and entrance exam courses, and to book a free trial for your child at one of our centres, head to our website: www.explorelearning.co.uk/11-plus-exams

safe environment of Forest School, means they are able to learn how to naturally judge a risk for themselves, (albeit a low risk that has been assessed by teachers) such as exploring and climbing over logs and uneven areas, avoiding brambles and

Small Class Sizes Vibrant Curriculum Inspiring Teachers High Standards Happy and Caring Community Excellent Facilities

Fun Days

March-April 2017

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FOREST SCHOOL

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STRINGS ‘ORCHESTRA’

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Lansdown Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 6QS Telephone: 01242 258079 email: squirrels@deanclose.org.uk www.deanclose.org.uk

on-site TENNIS & SWIMMING LESSONS

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

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Education

Ed’s Reading Room

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Spring book selection for you to enjoy. Have fun reading! www.EdontheWeb.com

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Buckinghamshire Gloucestershire CEM 11+ EXAM GROUP TUITION • Year 5 and Year 4 - small group courses Mock Exams (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 Saturdaycourses and Tuesday Courses • 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

Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: The Spooky School by Tracey Corderoy (Nosy Crow £5.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Shifty and Sam aren’t just skilful bakers – they have a knack of solving mysteries too. Preparations are being made for a midnight feast at St Spectre’s School but Shifty and Sam must track down one very cheeky ghost. Next they have to find out what is going on with some extremely wacky weather. Then when they take the Bakemobile to the museum’s courtyard, they don’t just have to sell their treats, they must also work out what the raccoons have in their brown sacks.’

Who Stole the Hamster? by N Griffin

(Walker £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘When the class in Room 11 discover their hamster has gone missing, chaos ensues. Did Patches escape or was he stolen? It is time for Smashie and her best friend Dontel to get their sleuthing hats on. However they realise that more than one crime has been committed. When Smashie and Dontel start their detective work will they be able to sort out the chaos?’

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Book Now For September Places Parents wishing to help their children prepare for Gloucestershire’s 11+ examination are advised to register early for group courses for Year 5 students 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.

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.

Please contact Philip email: 11plustutoringacademy@gmail.com or call 07734469495 6

Families Gloucestershire

Prom King: The Fincredible Diary of Fin Spencer by Ciaran Murtagh

(Piccadilly Press £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘When Blake Romney arrives from America and joins Fin’s class, Fin thinks everything about Blake is really cool. This is high praise from Fin who up to now thinks of himself as the best-looking and most charming kid in the school. When Blake suggests an end of year Prom, Fin goes into overdrive. He absolutely must be the Prom King and find a way of making Claudia his Prom Queen.

But will he be able to make this happen? Even with the help of his magic diary.’

The Song From Somewhere Else

by A F Harrold (Bloomsbury £12.99) ED SAYS: ‘Frank isn’t sure how to react when Nick Underbridge, the least popular boy at school, helps her get away from some boys who have been bullying her. What would her friends say if they knew she had been to Nick’s house? And will he take it that she is now his friend? But there is something appealing about Nick’s house and particularly the music she hears there. Sometimes friendship can be found when it is least expected.’

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.

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

March-April 2017

Education

Creating A Seamless Transition On April 18th anxious parents across England will be checking their emails to discover which Primary school their child has been given a place at. After this comes the ‘transition’ period, that time between leaving Pre-School and starting Reception.

maintained and that our children continue to make excellent progress. Our Pre-School classrooms are based next door to the Reception children and they regularly participate in activities together including story times, play times, drama productions and a family picnic.

For 4-year-olds the thought of school can be a daunting one but a few helpful ideas can make it a smooth and pain-free process – for both child and parent!

1. Visit the school together on several occasions. Take them along to the Sports Day, the drama production, and other fun events held at the school and get them to meet with their teacher. Show them the classroom they will be in and give them a tour of the department.

2. Make a photobook ‘All About Me’ to share with the class when they start, with photographs of family, friends, pets, etc 3. Read books to your child over the summer holidays on ‘Starting School’.

4. Be independent. Get them to put on their shoes, get dressed and undressed (which will help for PE lessons), wash their hands etc.

5. Ensure that their Pre-School teacher or ‘Key Person’ makes contact with their new school to share information.

At St Edward’s Prep School, we take huge steps to ensure that our Pre-Schoolers have regular contact with the staff and current Reception children, so that starting school is not a scary one. We ensure that the quality and pace of learning is

Get a smooth transition and you will have a happy and excited child on the first day of the Autumn Term.

Miss Sadie Johns, Registrar Mrs Kate France, Reception Teacher & Head of Pre-Prep www.stedwards.co.uk

Learn & Explore Open Day Friday 28th April

Prep and Senior School 9:30am - 3pm

ISA National

Award Winners

In the Early Years Category

March-April 2017

www.stedwards.co.uk

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

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Education

Education

Times Tables Made Easy Hands up who got their iPhone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with maths and, in particular, times tables, is vital for children if they are to succeed at school.

Start with the twos Adding two to a previous number is something most children will find achievable in primary school and this sets up a pattern for learning about the other times tables. The 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 pattern has an easy rhythm to help children remember it.

Helping your little ones at home and doing some extra work to ensure they feel confident in their learning can almost be as important as what they do in the classroom. It can, however, be tricky when you are not actually a teacher.

Apply it to real life If times tables is something your children can apply to daily life, they will show much more of an interest. Instead of testing what they know, be playful about it when you’re at the supermarket and they’re helping you with the shopping (it can happen sometimes!). If you’re buying loose fruit and veg, ask them if they know what the price would be if you bought three instead of two.

Find out what works best Like anything with children, once you discover what works best for them – stick to it. If your child learns best using visual aids then go down that route. If, on the other hand, listening and chanting helps them learn, then explore the different types of apps available on the iPad or computer and try downloading some of them. It may be a good idea to keep these activities supervised so that if your child does make a mistake and comes up with a wrong answer, you are on hand to explain.

The thing that can really turn children off learning their times tables is the practise it will take. Mixing up the way they spend their time practising is important for sparking their interest and holding their attention. Here are some top tips to help you.

What should they know?

How and what children learn in primary school sets them up for success in secondary school. If the foundations are in place for them to be able to work out an equation like 3x6=18 without using a calculator, then they will find it easier when it comes to tackling harder arithmetic. The education curriculum changes, but at the moment, children are required to know 12x12 by the age of nine.

How can you help them know it?

Buy posters of times tables or make your own; you can then stick them up throughout the house. On the wall opposite the loo, or under a magnet on the fridge, so that they are taking it in without even realising it. You can even tape it to the ceiling above their bed so that they have something to talk about with you when you are snuggling down, instead of a bed-time story.

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Families Gloucestershire

Pick out the patterns Come on, admit it; everyone has a favourite times table. It’s probably your favourite because you find it the easiest to remember or you like the pattern. Picking up on things like this will make it easier for your little ones to learn. The 9 times table has one of the easiest patterns to remember because, whilst the tens go up each time, the other number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90.

Do not bring your own feelings into it Teaching methods have changed a lot since us parents were learning our times tables. Your children are probably learning in a different way now so chances are that you may have to brush up on your arithmetic too. Ordering yourself something like Maths for Mums and Dads could help. Discovering new ways of learning can make it fun for both of you.

Build their confidence There is more to maths than arithmetic and it is important that your little ones do not lose interest in maths as a subject because it feels too difficult or seems too time consuming.

Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as possible. Encourage your children and praise them for trying when they do. Show them how far they have come since last week or last month and this should spur them on.

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

March-April 2017

Allocation Day, Appeals Day And Alternatives Day Are you a parent of rising 5-year-old painstakingly counting down the days to April 18th when you find out where your son or daughter will be attending their first day of school?

Donned with new school uniform (including the obligatory oversized jumper that they are certain to grow into) and excitement for meeting new playmates at ‘big school,’ you will watch on wondering where the time went. It is a milestone shared by both you and your child and you want to do everything to ensure it is the best possible start to school.

60 Seconds With A KSOL Tutor

So what happens if you don’t get the school you hoped for?

There’s the appeals process which does risk further disappointment but is worth a shot, and there is also the option of a private pre-prep.

Where class sizes in the State system are up to 30 per teacher, Rendcomb College Junior School has no more than 16 children per class giving each child so much more individual attention, an essential aspect of any child’s development. With acres of unspoilt countryside and an award-winning Forest School on site, utilising our outdoor ‘classroom’ is part of everyday life.

The admissions process is refreshingly straight forward, stress free and personalised with no waiting lists or appeals.

What is the 11 plus?

Book a personal visit or come along to one of our free open The 11 plus is a highly competitive set of entrance exams events to experience what Rendcomb College Reception could taken by children at the age of 11 when applying to grammar offer your child. www.rendcombcollege.org.uk or independent school.

What’s in the 11 plus exam?

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

How can parents prepare children for the 11 plus? KSOL provide online 11 plus courses and run CEM 11 plus mock exams throughout the year to help benchmark ability and to familiarise children with: - the format of the exam paper - the style of questions and content - the live exam environment Why should children sit 11 plus mock exams?

We don’t want children to become stressed by the atmosphere in the real exam so it’s important for them to experience the setting in order to build confidence.

Sitting mock exams also enables parents to benchmark their child’s ability and work on any weak areas. Whether this is a particular 11 plus topic, exam technique or poor time management, identifying and tackling these areas will boost a child’s performance on the day.

KSOL are award-winning 11 plus specialists with over 10 years of experience. Upcoming mock exam dates include 14th May and 16th July at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire. Call the team on 0121 733 6558 or visit www.ksol.co.uk to book mock exams and discover KSOL 11 plus online tuition for children in Year 4 and 5.

March-April 2017

FREE EVENTS at Rendcomb College Junior School and Nursery

It’s Springtime!

10am to 12 noon For preschool children aged 2+ Friday 24 March

BOOK NOW! 01285 832306 www.rendcombcollege.org.uk

Pirate Adventure & Open Morning 10am to 12 noon Ages 2 to 11 Friday 12 May

We’re just 15 minutes south of Cheltenham. Events held in our award-winning Forest School!

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

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Clubs and Classes

Clubs and Classes

British Summer Camps For Kids

top reasons to consider a summer camp, and companies like PGL, like to combine activities for their teens and tweens.

Creativity and adventure can go hand-in-hand on their seven day courses with mornings spent fencing and evenings doing photography.

Cost is obviously a consideration for most families, especially when they have more than one child to pay for. Many companies offer Childcare Vouchers and in addition, they give discounts for multiple or early bookings. Some even offer scholarships or reduced rates for special circumstances.

The benefit of going off to camp for the average child is the phenomenal boost to their self-esteem and independence. It can be a little daunting for parents to let them go off on their own, knowing they will not be there to soothe and reassure should anything go wrong.

A long-established tradition in the USA, summer camps are now readily available across the UK for all ages. British parents have found that packing their youngsters off for a few days or weeks of stimulation and entertainment is the perfect answer to the annual conundrum: “what will the kids do with their long summer break?” For working parents, the concept is a godsend. The great news is that the children love it too.

However, this is just the character-building part of the experience which allows children to flourish and find their own confidence. Most camps will team younger children with an older “mentor” who will keep a special eye on them, and provide that all-important cuddle if necessary. Tempting though it may be to call and check on them all the time, it really is better to restrict contact, and encourage your child to have a positive attitude to being away.

Although sport and adventure are heavily featured, not all camps cater to active miniathletes. For the less boisterous, there are art and academic options, technology and performing arts. If your child loves dancing, motorbiking, film-making or computing, there is bound to be a camp to suit and build their skills, and they vary in length from one-off days to several residential weeks.

Finding one that suits you A good place to research all the activities on offer, from archery to zorbing, is the British Activities Providers Association, which lists and gives accreditation to over 100 summer camps in the UK and Europe.

Two well-known British providers are Outward Bound and the Youth Hostel Association.

The Outward Bound Trust caters to 11-19 year olds in residential camps, and the YHA holds themed camps for 10-19 years with accommodation in their own hostels. Younger children are accepted by xkeys.co.uk from 6 years, and at ATE from 8 years. Fun might include scuba diving, football or quad biking.

The so-called “Bear Grylls effect” has led to a lot of kids (and their parents) enjoying the idea of learning survival skills and coping with the great outdoors. Over-10s can bivouac under the stars in the Lake District, and coasteering, bush tracking, den-building and bonfires are all popular. If your 9 - 15 year old is an adrenalin junkie, they will relish the cliff jumping and sea swimming at the Isle of Man Venture Centre.

If considering a summer camp, involve your child in the selection process, so that they know what to expect, and have input into the choice. You can tailor this process to support your child’s personality, for example, a shy child may be happier in a smaller group, such as those of no more than 12, at Mill on the Brue in Somerset.

Beaumont is the leader in this field with over 40 choices and they run all through the summer from 8.30am to 5.30pm. At The Academies, day camps for 3-17 year olds, offer such clubs as “Mad Scientists” or “Groovy Gardeners” and teens can brush up their UCAS applications or learn to coach the young ones, which is great for CVs. Would-be rock stars can sign on to KZR!Music, where a 2-day music course costs £120.

Another day camp operator is Fire Tech. They are based throughout England for 9-14 year olds and cover such subjects as video game development and mobile app design. We may think of camps as featured in American movies with lots of strenuous sports, s’mores by the fire, and friendly competition, but these days the cerebral is celebrated, just as much as the physical.

Learning a new language is a popular camp choice, and some parents elect to fly their children overseas to brush up on their French, German or Spanish. It’s even possible to go to Shanghai or Beijing and learn Mandarin.

Day camps are great too

Of course, hanging from zip wires, pushing the boundaries of Not all kids are comfortable with the prospect of being away courage and competence and trying new things will always be from home and this is where day camps are ideal. Camp 10

Families Gloucestershire

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

March-April 2017

Ultimately, with the right preparation, a summer camp is the ideal way for your child to spend their time during that long summer holiday. Spend some time selecting, look at each camp’s suitability, and be excited for your child for one of the most lifeenriching experiences out there.

For more information about clubs and classes visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk

Plenty Of Easter Fun Holiday times can be tricky for working parents and Kate Hall who owns Camp 4-2-11 understands this better than most — she is a mum of six who runs two businesses! Kate’s Easter holiday camp (now taking children aged from three years to 14 years) is being run from St Edward’s Senior School, Cheltenham, from April 10-13 .

Camp 4-2-11 has a great reputation for offering arts, crafts, drama, singing and dance and even baking in addition to sports such as archery, tennis and swimming. Kate says: “It’s really important to me that parents go to work knowing their kids are safe, having fun and enjoying their time at camp.

We understand it is their holiday time so we offer flexibility and choice.”

The camp accepts childcare vouchers, is Ofsted registered and works to strict staff/child ratios.

Contact 07825 630751 or visit www.camp4211.co.uk

15 Years of Music Making Monkey Music Cheltenham and Gloucester will be celebrating its 15th birthday this year. Your local award-winning pre-school music group was born in 2002, run by mum-of-three Sian Ferris. Sian was the very first franchise to start Monkey Music outside of London, where it has been so successful.

She says: “I went to Monkey Music in London and loved how wonderful and inspirational the classes were. Having been an amateur singer from an early age, music has always been deeply important to me. I’m supported by a wonderful group of teachers, equally passionate about the benefits of music.”

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

Saturday classes now open!

Monkey Music is all about introducing music to very young children. Catchy songs are mixed with a multitude of instruments and visual props, something for all musical maestros to get to grips with.

March-April 2017

Classes open to babies from three months to children of four years in Cheltenham and Gloucester. Book your FREE TRIAL. Call 07768 457403 or visit www.monkeymusic.co.uk

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

11

Easter

Easter

NEW Kids’ Cooking Classes and Parties!

Children love to cook! Join us

Little Chick Cookies

with your pre-schooler Children love to cook! Joinfor usfun with baking classes and crafts on your pre-schooler for fun baking Mondays, Thursdays or or classes and crafts on Mondays Fridays.

Fridays. Suitable for ages 3 - 5.

Suitable for ages 3 - 5.

Call Fiona: 07475883019 or visit

www.cookerydoodledoo.com

Call 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in the May/June issue of Families Gloucestershire

The Great Outdoors Six super tips to get your child to go outdoors this spring

Spring is a beautiful time of year. The air is heavy with the scent of flowering currents and daffodils and snowdrops sway gently back and forth on every verge. The sky provides a crisp blue background and the fields are green with new growth.

It is the perfect time for children! With lambs frolicking in the fields and insects buzzing in the air, there is so much to see and do and it’s important to get them outside to experience it, for both their physical health and their psychological wellbeing.

Numerous studies have shown the benefits of fresh air and good, old-fashioned outdoor fun. Proven to increase children’s activity levels, alertness and general health, it’s also a great way to get their minds and their imaginations working.

The trick is not to make it feel forced, but rather fun. Although there may still be a bit of a nip in the air, here are six super tips to get your little ones scrambling for the nearest door and their next adventure…

1. Take them camping Studies have shown that the average child spends far too much time indoors using electronics and less and less time outside.

This can constrain their natural creativity and gives them an inability to cope without constant stimulation. One great way to turn this on its head is to grab a tent and take them camping.

Internet service should be naturally limited in more remote locations, but if it’s not, encourage your kids to leave their 12

Families Gloucestershire

tablets and smartphones behind. Fill their days with hiking, campfires, and outdoor games and they’ll barely even notice the absence of 24/7 technology.

2. Do some wildlife watching According to research by the Kaiser Family Foundation, children spend more than seven hours a day on electronic media. Luckily, the best antidote for gamer’s eye and texter’s thumb is a simple one: a different kind of mental and visual stimulation in the form of wildlife watching. Helping children to better appreciate the birds and beasts around them is a great way to engage their senses and educate them on the environment. If you want to make the day extra exciting, turn it into a photo safari and have them snap pictures of any animals they spot.

3. Turn detective for the day Woodland walks are one way to get your children moving, but to make sure that they don’t get bored and try to avoid going out again in the future, turn the day into a game. Compile a list of things to find in the forest, from certain types of flowers to feathers, leaves, and even animal droppings. Get them to tick these off their list as they locate them. The more they find, the more points they get, with a small prize at the end for the victor. Such games are guaranteed to not only be fun, but also to get all of their senses switched on and their attention focused on the task at hand.

4. Collect and craft Another idea for woodland walks is to get your children to collect items that they can later use to make crafts. Encourage

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

March-April 2017

them to search around for the most beautiful bits and bobs that they can find, whether these are flowers, feathers, or even pretty rocks. Once you’re at home, let them showcase their findings, and spend some time teaching them about the things they’ve discovered, such as which birds their feathers came from. Then, get out the glue and the glitter and get to work.

Their imaginations should soon be working overtime.

5. Take them pony trekking Horse riding can be an expensive hobby, but as a one-off treat, it’s a really pleasant experience for children. Helping to hone their hand-eye co-ordination, it's almost like enjoying a Great British safari. Most centres will take you out into the wilderness, with beautiful sights to be seen and enjoyed. Depending on where you trek, you could cross everything from woods to beaches to mountains, each of them offering a unique insight into the wonders of the great outdoors. Your little ones will probably love it so much that they’ll be talking about it for weeks to come, their minds filled with the fun and the excitement that being outdoors can bring.

6. Encourage them to cloud gaze As free as the air you breathe, cloud gazing has always been associated with daydreamers and there are worse things that your child could be. Encouraging them to pick out shapes in the sky will get their imaginations working overtime and is a truly fantastic catalyst for creativity. Afterwards, have them make stories from the images they imagined, or else paint their own cloudy pictures. As long as it gets them thinking, the day will have been a superb success.

How will you get your little ones out of the house and into the wilder world this spring?

For more fun things to see and do in the great outdoors visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk March-April 2017

Who can resist a cute Easter Chick? These tropical lime and coconut-covered biscuits look gorgeous and make a welcome break from all the chocolate eggs.

Ingredients 63g Butter 20g Coconut 28g Sugar Yellow Food Colouring 90g Plain Flour 50g Icing Sugar ½ Lime How do I make that?

1. Pre-heat the oven to 190 degrees celcius 2. Mix the butter and sugar together in a bowl until smooth 3. Fold in the flour 4. Grate half the lime and add the zest to the mixture 5. Roll out the mix and cut into ‘chick’ shapes using a cookie cutter 6. Place on a greased baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15 minutes – until golden around the edges 7. While the biscuits are cooking, mix together the icing sugar and lime juice in a bowl 8. In a separate bowl mix the coconut with a little yellow food colouring until you reach the desired colour 9. Once the biscuits are cooled, spread them with a layer of icing and stick the yellow coconut mix to the top making ‘fluffy’ feathers!

To join Fiona at her Cookery Doodle Doo children’s classes please visit: www.cookerydoodledoo.com or phone 07475883019 for details.

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.

SCHOOL EVENT ST EDWARDS PREPARATORY SCHOOL KINDERGARTEN, London Road, Cheltenham GL52 6NR 01242 538900 www.stedwards.co.uk 24 March. St Edward’s Kindergarten Free Play & Stay Coffee Morning. All parents and toddlers are welcome to join us for a morning of refreshments, socialising and fun activities. 9-10.30am 6 May. Nearly New Sale: St Edward’s Kindergarten 26 May. St Edward’s Kindergarten Free Play & Stay Coffee Morning. All parents and toddlers are welcome to join us for a morning of refreshments, socialising and fun activities. 9-10.30am.

EASTER ON THE FARM

Newbridge Farm Park has lots to offer for Easter on the Farm! Children can complete a free Easter treasure hunt, bottle feed a lamb, and see lots of Spring baby animals!

New for 2017, children will love our improved softplay in our indoor playbarn, whilst adults can sit close by, enjoying something from our selection of hot and cold food and drinks.

Visitors can also enjoy a free tractor ride, a hands on pet session, animal feeding and pony rides. Play facilities are suitable for all ages, including trampolines, zip wire, rope swing, hay bale tunnels, giant sandpits and more.

Our family run business wants to give you an

FREE bag of animal food with this voucher!

Re-Opens 5th April

‘Easter at the Farm’ Lamb Bottle Feeding & Treasure Hunt.

NEW Soft Play, Pony Rides, Tractor Rides, Giant Sandpit, Play Barn, Friendly Animals, and much more!

www.NewbridgeFarmPark.com

Near Ledbury, HR8 2QG 14

Families Gloucestershire

01531 670780

enjoyable day in the countryside with memorable experiences and great value. Our friendly animals are waiting to greet you!

Visit the website and find us on Facebook, for more details. Schools and parties welcome.

Got a preschooler? Keep an eye out for our Bouncing Bunnies toddler mornings. www.newbridgefarmpark.com EASTER EGG HUNTS BATSFORD ARBORETUM Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 9QB 01386 701441 www.batsarb.co.uk 8 April – 23 April. The Big Batsford Chicken Hunt. You’ve heard of an Easter Egg Hunt – now find the chickens that laid them! £2.50 per child. No booking necessary.

16 April. Mad Hatters Tea Party A marquee festooned with fabulous Alice in Wonderland backdrops creates a magical atmosphere. Facepainting included. Booking essential.

Sundays. Families are invited to take part in fun and interactive art activities. FREE family drop-in but donations of £2 per child are gratefully received. 11am – 1pm.

PUZZLEWOOD Perrygrove Road, Coleford, GL16 8QB 01594 833187 www.puzzlewood.net 10 - 17 April. Easter Bunny Hunt. Search the woods high and low, the Easter Bunnies have dropped them everywhere!

BABIES AND TODDLERS

SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge 8 – 23 April. The Giant Duck Hunt! A group of GIANT ducks will be landing at CHEDWORTH ROMAN VILLA Slimbridge this Easter holidays, can your family Yanworth, Cheltenham, GL54 3LJ spot them all? Spot them all and receive a 01242 890256 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ yummy treat on your return. Easter arts and chedworth-roman-villa crafts will also be available.

14 – 17 April. Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt.

DAYS OUT Follow the trail and win a Cadbury chocolate prize £2/trail. 10am – 4pm.

DYRHAM PARK 8 April – 23 April. Easter activities at Dyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER (Sat Nav: SN14 the Villa. A fun children’s trail and discover 8HY) 0117 937 2501 www.nationaltrust.org. how the Romans celebrated spring. Every day uk/dyrham-park there will also be children’s craft activities.

26 March. Mother’s Day at Dyrham Park.

DEAN HERITAGE CENTRE Head over to the allotment at Old Lodge to Soudley, Cinderford, Gloucestershire plant a pretty polyanthus or primrose to take GL14 2UB 01594 822 170 home to your mum. . www.deanheritagecentre.com 11, 13, 18 & 20 April. Family Nature Trail Various events over Easter Explore the park through exciting activities on one of the popular guided discovery trails.

DYRHAM PARK Dyrham, near Bath, SN14 8ER (Sat Nav: SN14 FREE with admission.

8HY) 0117 937 2501 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyrham-park 14 -17 April. Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt Go and explore the parkland at Dyrham with an Easter hunt trail and claim your Cadbury chocolate prize. £2.50 per trail. Normal admission

NEWBRIDGE FARM PARK Aylton, Ledbury, Herefordshire. HR8 2QG 01531 670780 www.newbridgefarmpark.com Friendly animals, activities and play areas. New indoor Playbarn Monday-Saturday 10am - 5pm (School Holidays) WednesdaySaturday 10am - 4pm (Term Time) CLOSED SUNDAYS! Children 2-17 - £5. Adult - £6 Group Ticket (4 people) - £20. Pony Rides - £2

NEWARK PARK Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7PZ 01453 842644 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ COTSWOLD WILDLIFE PARK newark-park Bradwell Grove, Burford OX18 4JP 14 -17 April. Easter Egg Hunt Join the 01993 823 006 www. hunt at Newark Park this Easter! Follow our cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk fun Easter trail and earn yourself a tasty Daily Activities. Penguin feeding takes reward! place every day at 11.00am and 3.00pm in OVER FARM MARKET the Walled Garden. There are keepers on hand Over Farm Market, Gloucester GL2 8DB 01452 to answer questions.

The narrow-gauge railway runs during 521014 www.overfarmmarket.co.uk April to October (weather permitting) and 14 -17 April. Easter trail – fun for all the takes you all around the Park: All fares £1.00, family. The trail will take you on a short walk under 3’s free of charge. around the farm. Look out for their friendly animals and don’t forget your wellies. The trail begins at the farm shop and there will be a face painter too.

PRINKNASH BIRD AND DEER PARK Prinknash Road, Matson, Gloucester GL4 8EU 01452 812 727 www.thebirdpark.com

Please mention you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire magazine

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES THE WILSON Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum, Clarence Street, Cheltenham GL50 3JT 01242 237431 www.thewilson.org.uk Last Sunday of every month. Arty

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

March-April 2017

What’s On

Various Concerts in March and April. Grown-up, live, classical concerts from professional musicians in a relaxed, baby-friendly environment.

SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND AT-BRISTOL CENTRE Anchor Road, Bristol, BS1 5DB Bowditch, Slimbridge, 0845 345 1235 Gloucestershire GL2 7BT www.at-bristol.org.uk 01453 890 333 31 March. Toddler Takeover: www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge Super Senses Explore a variety Slimbridge Cygnets – WWT of textures at a low level in the texture garden, prick up your ears Toddler Group Second and fourth Tuesday of each month to some interesting noises in during term time. Arrive at 10.30 Soundlab and join Ursa and Leo to catch up with other parents for The Magical Forest storytime. before enjoying a wildlife themed THE GLOUCESTER GUILDHALL activity at 11am. Each session will 23 Eastgate St, Gloucester GL1 include a wildlife themed activity.

1NS 01452 503050 www.

THE WILSON gloucester.gov.uk/guildhall Cheltenham Art Gallery & Mondays. LaLa Lounge (for Museum, Clarence Street, parents with under 5’s) Escape Cheltenham GL50 3JT 01242 the shopping frenzy for an hour or three. 10am – 1pm. Free entry. 237431 www.thewilson.org.uk First Wednesday of every LILLIPUT CONCERTS month. Tots and Tales. Join in St Andrew’s Church, Montpellier this fun session of storytelling and Street, Cheltenham GL50 1SP arty activities for parents and www.facebook.com/ carers with pre-school children.

LilliputConcerts 10.30am - 11.15am.

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

Gloucestershire Breastfeeding Supporters’ Network Support Groups All groups are free drop-in sessions. .

You don’t need to have a breastfeeding problem.

Monday. 10.00 – 12.00 noon: MOBS in Dursley, Parish Room, St James the Great Church GL11 4JE Tuesday. 10.00 – 12 noon: BAPS, Hesters Way Children’s Centre, Dill Avenue,Cheltenham GL51 0ES Wednesday. 10.30 – 12.00 noon: BABES, Noah’s Ark Children’s Centre, York Road, Priors Park, Tewkesbury, GL20 5HU Thursday . 9.30am – 11.30am: CRIBS, Church Hall, St John’s Church, Churchdown GL3 2DB 10.00am – 11.30am: BEST, Springboard Children’s Centre, Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU 10.00am – noon: MOBS in Stroud, Parliament Street Children’s Centre, Bisley Old Road, Stroud GL5 1NL 12.30pm – 2.00pm: GLOBES, Gardners Lane Children’s Centre, Cheltenham GL51 9JW. Full information: www.gbsn.org.uk

Cheltenham Children’s Centre Baby Groups Every Monday at St. Margaret’s Hall, GL51 3NU 10.00am-11.30am (0-18 months) Every Tuesday at Rowanfield Children Centre, GL51 8HY 1.00pm-2.30pm (mums to be and prewalking babies) Every Wednesday at Gardners Lane Children

March-April 2017

Centre, GL51 9JW 10.00am -11.30am Every Thursday at Hester’s Way Children Centre, GL51 0ES 1.15pm -2.45pm Every Friday at Oakwood Children Centre, GL52 5QH 10.00am - 11.30am. All groups are open to babies 0-12 months and their parents/carers.

NCT Courses CHELTENHAM & NORTH COTSWOLD BRANCH First Aid Spaces are limited so please email Louisa at:events@nctcheltenham.org

GLOUCESTER BRANCH

Gloucester Breakfast Club: Every Wednesday.

10:00am – 11:30am. Harvester Restaurant, Salmons Leap, Quedgeley,Gloucester, GL2 4NF. Open to all, members and non-members.

Contact: coordinator.gloucester@nct.org.uk Relax, Stretch & Breathe Classes: Every Monday in term time.

For more info visit www.nct.org.uk.uk/gloucester/ courses

STROUD BRANCH NCT Signature antenatal course

For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact your local course organiser on 0208 752 2494 or bookings3f@nct.org.uk NCT Early Days/Postnatal course For more details see www.nct.org.uk/courses or contact your local course organiser on 0208 752 2494 or bookings3f@nct.org.

Gloucester Bumps and Babies Every Tuesday from 10.30am-12.00 noon at Salvation Army Hall, Eastgate Street, Gloucester, GL1 1QU. You don’t need to be a member to come along. Contact: Gloucester@nct.org.uk

TETBURY BRANCH

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

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

NCT Drop Ins CIRENCESTER BRANCH Bumps, Babes & Toddlers: Every Wednesday 10.00am - 11.30am at Cirencester Baptist Church, Coxwell Street 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

Tots on the Move at Tinies Nursery at Gloucester College on Llanthony Road, GL2 5JQ. Every Monday term time only 10.00am -11.30am no need to be a member. Parking is limited.

Nearly New Sales

CHELTENHAM AND NORTH COTSWOLD NEARLY NEW SALE - CLOTHES All Saints Academy, Blaisdon Way Cheltenham GL51 0WH. Saturday 1 April 10:30am – 12 midday STROUD NCT NEARLY NEW SALE Archway School Sports Centre, Paganhill, Stroud GL5 4AX. Sunday 19 March 11:00am – 12:30pm

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

15

Families Gloucestershire

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

March-April 2017