Families Gloucestershire November/December 2017 issue 41

FR E E

TAKE

ME H

OME

Gloucestershire

IN THIS ISSUE

Christmas

Where to meet Santa Claus Festive days out Win tickets to the Panto!

Baby To Toddler show: Discount tickets

Education

Secret lives of 4 & 5 year olds Bullying

Only the best for your child C

hildren of any ability are welcome to come and try 20 minute classes in dance, drama and singing while parents observe, followed by a chance to sign up for Jan term.

Age 4-6: 2pm - 2.30pm Age 6-18: 3pm - 4.30pm Charlton Kings Junior School East End Road, Cheltenham GL53 8QE

Issue 41 November/December 2017

Our first term will be spent working towards a large scale show at the Bacon Theatre in March!

Email info@mystageschool.co.uk now to book for the open day.

familiesonline.co.uk

Editor’s Letter Dear readers

The Countdown to Christmas has begun and if you want to save time when planning your annual festive days out take a look at our What’s On pages. You can then add that extra bit of magic and even plan your visit to see Father Christmas on pages 12 and 13.

Panto season is upon us, so don’t miss your chance of winning tickets to Sleeping Beauty at The Roses Theatre, Tewkesbury, See page 4.

With 45% off discount tickets, it has got to be worth a visit to the Baby and Toddler Show at the NEC, Birmingham. A one-stop shop for all your parenting needs. See page 4 for details.

We hope you have a wonderful Christmas.

Diane Clifford. Editor 01684 770566 editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk Front Cover courtesy of Lorraine Morgan. www.lorrainemorganphotography.co.uk

Advertise with us and reach over 38,000 parents. Next issue January/ February. Deadline 8 December Families Gloucestershire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Gloucestershire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Hereford & Worcester. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

For the second year running Blenheim Palace’s 2000 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscape and Formal Gardens will be transformed into an illuminated wonderland. The magical trail will wind through the landscape from 24 November to 1 January 2018. www.blenheimpalace.com Award Winning Tuition: Explore Learning are offering all readers a free trial of their workshops at their centre in Cheltenham.

To book a free trial call 030 3003 4006 and quote Families Gloucestershire magazine. www.explorelearning.co.uk

The Hope Tree Cards Join Festive Favourites At Brain Tumour Research Charity Pioneering charity Brain Tumour Research has taken an innovative approach to their range of Christmas cards this year, signing up supporter and artist, Caroline Copland, to design a new card for 2017. Caroline, who sadly lost her mother Janet to a brain tumour three years ago, was inspired by the Christmas Hope Trees which decorate the charity’s Research Centres of Excellence across the UK each year.

The Hope Tree cards will join other festive favourites in the charity’s range. All cards are priced at £4 per pack of ten, with at least 60% of the proceeds going towards supporting vital brain tumour research. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused on funding sustainable research to find a cure for brain tumours, which kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer. www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/christmas-cards

2

Families Gloucestershire

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

familiesonline.co.uk

News & Views

Girls Outperform Boys In SATS Provisional results of the primary school Key Stage 2 SATs tests show girls performing better than boys in all areas.

In both reading and maths, 75% of girls reached the expected standard, compared with 68% of boys in reading and 74% in maths.

In writing, there was a 12 percentage point gap, with 82% of girls reaching the expect standard, compared with 70% of boys. Girls outperformed boys in grammar, punctuation and spelling too, at 81% to 73%. Better news for boys in maths though, where 24% of boys reached the higher standard (110 or above) in maths, compared to 21% of girls.

For more information visit www.gov.uk/ government/statistics/national-curriculumassessments-key-stage-2-2017-provisional

Personality And Eating Linked Most toddlers go through bouts of picky eating, but infants with more inhibited personalities are more likely to turn up their nose at new foods, according to researchers.

In a study, researchers observed how infants responded to new foods and new toys throughout their first 18 months. The study found that infants who were wary of new toys also tended to be less accepting of new foods, suggesting early food attitudes stem from personality.

“From the time they’re very young, some infants are more ‘approaching’ and react positively to new things, whereas other infants are more ‘withdrawing’ and react negatively to the same stimul,” said Kameron Moding from the University of Colarado, Denver and author of the paper. “Keep trying! Research from other labs has consistently shown that infants and children can learn to accept new foods if their caregivers continue to offer them” Moding said. www.sciencedaily.com

familiesonline.co.uk

New Thursday Venue At Charlton Kings Junior School For My Stage School My Stage School has just entered its third year and now welcomes 150 students each Friday and Saturday. Due to over subscription a new Thursday school will launch in January 2018 opening up a further 70 spaces for new students who would rather keep their weekends free.

Principal Ellie Marsden ran one of the largest franchise theatre schools in London for 10 years and now brings her expertise and experience to Gloucestershire where she strives for only the best for her students. Ellie and her passionate team provide endless and regular performance opportunities so that students gain confidence rapidly and start to achieve more than they ever thought they could.

Whether your child is shy and quiet or whether they are working towards a career in the performing arts My Stage School will strike the right balance with their training and aspirations. Not only are they always working towards a performance or show, movie or exam but they provide LAMDA one on one tuition, west end Troupe performances, Disney Troupe performances, Performance Arts Award exams, holiday workshops at Easter and in the Summer.

The new Thursday School opens in January 2018 for ages 4-18.

Children and parents are welcome to a free open day in November at Charlton Kings Junior School, East End Road, Cheltenham on Sunday 26 November. Age 4-6 at 2pm - 2.30pm and Age 6-16 at 3pm - 4.30pm. Children try shortened classes in dance, drama, singing while parents observe followed by a chance to sign up for January.

Email info@mystageschool.co.uk or call 01242 222 175 for details.

Rates Of SID At Record Low Rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have shown another decrease in England and Wales according to newly released figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The 2015 figures show a decrease of 25% since 2013 and continue the trend of record low SIDS rates in England and Wales for the second year running.

The ONS attribute the decrease to a reduction in maternal smoking and increased awareness of safer sleep advice. Leading SIDS charity, The Lullaby Trust, cautions that it is important not to become complacent and following safer sleep advice remains as vital as ever. For more information on safe sleeping advice visit www.lullabytrust.org.uk To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

3

Offer And Competition

Ed’s Reading Room

Hi book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Winter book selection for you to enjoy. Have fun reading! www.EdontheWeb.com

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Save Money On Tickets For New Baby To Toddler Event The organisers of the fantastic Baby Show are bringing a brand new event to the NEC this winter. Baby To Toddler, the shopping event for modern parents, is a two day shopping event in association with Baby Planet and will give visitors access to exclusive offers and Black Friday deals from some of the biggest baby and toddler brands you know and trust.

Taking place at: Birmingham NEC on the weekend of 2 – 3 December. Exhibitors will also include not-onthe high street boutique brands. It is the one-stop-shop for everything parents need. Attendees will also be given the chance to purchase a Project Baby Goody Bag worth up to £30 for just £1! 50p of which will be donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital.

On the door tickets are £12 but Families Magazine readers can have a 45% discount* to £6.50 using the code FAMILIESG via www.babytotoddlerevents.co.uk. *Saving is based on the standard on-the-door ticket price of £12. Advance Box Office closes midnight 1 Dec 2017. £1 transaction fee applies.

WIN PANTO TICKETS!

One Christmas Wish by Katherine Rundell (Bloomsbury £14.99)

ED SAYS: “It’s Christmas Eve and Theo is helping to decorate the Christmas tree.

Theo’s parents are still at work and his babysitter has fallen asleep. He feels so alone. When he sees a strange looking star soaring across the sky he decides to make a wish. How he wishes not to be alone! Suddenly the decorations come to life and tell Theo that anything he would like to happen could happen. And so begins a magical adventure.”

Polly and the Puffin: The Happy Christmas by Jenny Colgan (Little, Brown

Books £7.99) ED SAYS: “Polly can’t wait for Christmas but it is taking an awfully long time to arrive. She and her puffin friend Neil have made their Christmas lists and practised the Nativity play but, when Polly’s mother says she will take Polly to see Santa, Polly is disappointed that Neil can’t go with them. Then Polly gives Santa the wrong list. Will they be able to sort things out in time for Christmas Day? And will a little puffling hatch in time for the celebrations?”

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Escape from the Tower by Santa Montefiore and Simon Sebag Montefiore (Simon & Schuster £10.99) ED

SAYS: “Shylo Tawny-Tail is rather small but is big on a sense of adventure and is proud to be called one of the Royal Rabbits of London. They help to fight evil across the world but their immediate problem is near to home in London’s skyscraping Shard. There the terrible Ratzis are plotting to cause mayhem when the President of the United States of America is visiting. When Shylo is kidnapped it seems that all might be doomed. Will he be able to escape in time?”

Father Christmas And Me by Matt Haig (Canongate £12.99) ED SAYS: “It Panto season is just around the corner (Oh Yes It is!…) and we have an opportunity for you to win a family ticket (2 adults, 2 Children) to see the magical tale of Sleeping Beauty at The Roses Theatre in Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX on Tuesday 5 December at 5.45pm.www.rosestheatre.org To be in with a chance of winning answer the following: Q: Who woke Sleeping Beauty? a. Maleficent b. Prince Philip c. Aurora Enter via email by Friday 24 November. Put ‘Panto’ in the subject line of your message, and send your answer, your name, postal address and mobile number to editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk 4

Families Gloucestershire

sounds fun to be living in Elfhelm with your adoptive parents Father Christmas and Mary Christmas but, as Amelia has found out, as a human it is not always easy. Of course sleighcraft lessons and general happiness lessons can be more interesting than usual school subjects but it is extremely cold and singing Christmas songs every day does become rather tedious. When a jealous animal army launch an attack to stop Christmas, can Amelia with her family and the elves sort things out before it is too late?”

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

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

You’ve Met The Teacher. Now What?

So you’ve been to a meeting with your child’s teacher and you’ve got an overview of how your child is progressing. But what do you do next?

Discuss with your child the feedback from their teacher, they may already be aware of what they need to work on but if they don’t, talk about it. Set a goal together of something they would like to achieve based on their feedback and aim to complete this by the end of next term. Make a plan together about how they are going to get there.

For example: You’re told they give up every time they have to learn something new, especially times tables. The goal you come up with together is to have a can-do attitude. Steps to getting there could be taking a new set of tables and learning them in small batches. Praise them for the ones they have got right alongside highlighting when they are being positive towards their learning so they know what kind of attitude is expected.

If you’ve set any goals with the teacher, then plan a time to review these. Depending on how the teacher likes to work this could be an email, call or face to face catch up 6-8 weeks after the initial meeting. Review how things are going and make changes if needed.

You may come away from a meeting and realise you’ve forgotten something or you don’t understand how the school is

reporting on progress. Contact the school if you still have questions, or look on their website as you should find a wealth of information on there.

Ask others for help, don’t worry if you don’t understand something or want to know what others are doing. Lots of people will be in the same position. Alternatively, there are some great advice websites like www.theschoolrun.co.uk and www.oxfordowl.co.uk or if you have a tutor, talk to them.

At Explore Learning our tutors always help parents when they need advice and will take into account your child’s recent reports when tailoring their learning. Never be afraid to ask.

Book your FREE trial at your local centre in Cheltenham today.

Call 030 3003 4006 or online www.explorelearning.co.uk

We’re giving them the confidence to tackle the new school year fearlessly!

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

familiesonline.co.uk

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

5

Education

Secret Lives Of 4 And 5 Year Olds Most parents and carers wish they could be a flyon-the-wall when their child starts school. Well, Channel 4’s Secret Lives of 4 & 5 year Olds which returns this November, allows them to do just that. Filmed in a specially rigged Essex school, the new series aims to give viewers a child’s perspective of their transition to a school setting.

Families Magazine talked to Dr Elizabeth Kilbey, a psychologist from the show, about what she learnt whilst filming the series.

Can you tell us more about the series? “It offers this wonderful window, through which we can watch the children playing and interacting. We give them lots of things to do, to see how they manage and play. It’s an amazing way of showing viewers what their children are actually doing at school.”

How did the children cope with the transition to school? “Parents main worry is generally ‘will my child be alright?’ and some children are very anxious. A great example is that wonderful picture of Prince George looking a bit worried on his first day of school. What I can now confidently say is that children are absolutely fine, once they are gone. They are doing lots of interesting things and coping brilliantly.”

Not all children cope with the transition so well, what advice would you give to them? “Take a calm, pragmatic approach. Essentially children tend to be worried about what they think might happen. In reality, they are going to be fine, but they don’t know that yet. Be confident and reassure your child that everything will be okay. Children are inherently social beings. They are curious and want to interact, with people, so even timid children will find something that sparks their imagination. Remember, the school setting is designed to engage them. It’s getting them to go which is the tough bit.”

What advice can you give parents whose children haven’t started school yet? “Children need to develop communications skills, get used to talking and relating to others and playing cooperatively. All of these social abilities will be vital later in life. Encourage lots of play with other children and get them to question how things work because natural curiosity is the main driver for learning.”

6

Families Gloucestershire

How can kids deal with friendship issues, if they have fallen out with someone? “It’s very tempting as a parent to want to fix this problem, but children fall in and out of friendships hundreds of times a day and can usually sort issues out themselves. If the problem is more complicated and you think there is unkind behaviour or bullying, then an adult might need to step in. But on the whole, conflict, when you are learning to be social is perfectly normal. Ask your child, “Is there any thing you can do to sort the situation out?” Try and help them understand the other child’s perspective. As parents, we often overcomplicate issues. We can learn a lot from children, , particularly the way they are so open and forgiving.”

How can we deal with the issue of gender with young children? I feel that gender isn’t particularly a driving force for children this age. They do make assumptions about children but they are happy for them to be corrected and they play on a much more straightforward basis. Gender becomes a much bigger issue for children towards the end of primary school. It’s important to encourage them to keep an open mind and understand that children of all ages and genders need the same opportunities because that is what is important for their development. Brains are not gendered, brains allow our children to learn.

What can you do if a child is exhibiting OCD type behaviour? “Anxiety needs a non-emotional response and a calm authority can be incredibly helpful. It’s tempting to offer support to someone who is suffering by saying, “isn’t this terrible,” but this reinforces the idea that there is something to be scared of. Parents shouldn’t try to neutralise the anxiety or reinforce it; it is best to carry on, with business as usual.

“If you are concerned or the behaviour is continuing over a long period of time and in more than one setting, get some advice from your school, GP or Health Visitor.”

What was the most interesting insight you gained from watching the children? “I learnt that children of this age are hilarious and multi-layered. They are not that different from adults. They have amazingly rich social lives. They test hypotheses, ask questions, fail and then carry on. They are resilient and incredibly complicated, just like we are.”

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

familiesonline.co.uk

Education

Make English Fun Over The Holidays

11+ Tuition

R

Whether you are preparing for the 11plus or SATs, Christmas preparations are full of exciting English based opportunities to keep children engaged!

Anita Dhunna, Director of Education at KSOL says: “There are lots of ways to keep children’s brains active whilst having plenty of fun over the holidays. From writing festive shopping lists, crafting hand-written cards or playing word-based board games, incorporating spelling and grammar into your Christmas has never been easier.”

Here’s just a few to get you on your way: 1. Word association games are great fun. Begin with a festive word and watch as the person next to you attempts to suggest a word association in just 5 seconds. This helps to increase vocabulary.

2. Board games are a brilliant way to provide hours of entertainment for everyone. Word board games expose your child to regular word pattern recognition, vocabulary and spelling; ensuring subtle English revision is maintained throughout the holiday.

3. Get your child to compose a festive poem! Rhyming is a great way to expand children’s verbal skills and creativity. They can even include them in this year’s Christmas cards!

KSOL have over a decade of experience in preparing children for the 11plus. To find out more about their online courses and special offers on 2018 mock exams, call 0121 733 6558.

Online Courses - Exams - Books

Get ready for the 11+ Give your child the best preparation k all Boo xams ck E

3 Mo 0 off! t £1 : & ge

te Quo MG18

LEXA KSO

KSOL 11+ Mock Exam in Gloucester

Limited Spaces...Book Now for February!

Benchmark 11+ ability early on Detailed Exam Ranking & Feedback CEM Style Maths, English, Verbal & NVR

0121 733 6558

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

KSOL - 11plus Specialists

G P Y S S X E T A R B E L E C E

D O U A O N C J E R U S S E M R

E M L M I S T L E T O E L N I O

M Y E D B E I B R A T O O X P A

U R E N E S N E S J I E N A R F

R C X S T H S T Y E L N V Y O R

R E P C R I E H X R V M H I E A

N R E R E C L L U U M I H C C N

E E Y O C I S E R S O R E H Y K

B M X O I C T H E A O I C I E I

O R M G E L N I J L V C J M N N

I U I E V E W M I E H L N N M C

R D H O H R E I O M R E E E Y E

E O G E E E O S A N T A I Y R N

R L E A C T L H G I E L S E H S

E P T A S I C H N R K E O A L E

C H P S X N A O T L S S I M E F

E X Y E N S Y V E E L C A R I M

I N Y O O L E D S Y B E Y E L S

Fill in the missing letters from our Christmas words and then find them in our present puzzle...

G_LD FR_NK_NC_NSE MY_RH J_R_S_L_M M_R_C_E REC__VE M_S_L_TOE C_L_BR_TE WRE_TH CH_MN_Y

For answers, visit www.ksol.co.uk/spelling familiesonline.co.uk

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

T_NS_L B__HL_H_M N_EL R_D_L_H SLE_GH ICIC_E S_NT_ SC_OOG_ YUL_

Merry Christmas From KSOL 7

Recipe

Christmas Granola

Mix and bake this delicious granola with the children for a quick and healthy breakfast on Christmas morning or as great gifts for teachers.

Ingredients *WITH THIS VOUCHER ONLY. VALID UNTIL 31 DECEMBER 2017. PHOTOCOPIES NOT ACCEPTED AND THIS VOUCHER MAY ONLY BE USED ONCE. FAMGLOS

Could you be the next editor of Families Gloucestershire?

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

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

Are you self-motivated and well organised?

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

300g oat flakes 2 little handfuls pumpkin seeds 150g unsweetened desiccated coconut 2 little handfuls sunflower seeds 150ml vegetable oil 2 little handfuls dried cranberries and/or raisins 1 tsp cinnamon 1tsp vanilla extract 8 tbsp carob syrup (sometimes called Carob molasses) or date syrup

Method

• Pre-heat the oven to 130 degrees celsius.

• Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl except for the cranberries and raisins. Add a dash of water to help mix.

• Spread the mixture out on a baking tray.

• Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Leave to cool before stirring through the cranberries and/ or raisins.

This granola tastes great on it’s own or as a snack layered with yoghurt, honey and fruit. It also makes a wonderful gift spooned into glass canisters or cellophane bags tied with a pretty ribbon.

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

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

To find out more about running your own business around your family call 01684 770566 or email editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk 8

Families Gloucestershire

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

familiesonline.co.uk

Anti-Bullying Week

Bullying Is Still An Issue When you send your child off to school you do so in the hope that they will be safe from harm. Sadly, for some children this is not the case and bullying is still an issue in many schools today.

By Jane Rogers So what are the signs to look out for? There may be some obvious signs: If your child has been physically hurt or had their possessions stolen or broken, this should ring an alarm bell.

Your child may tell you they are being bullied: Children who are being bullied can be divided roughly into two categories: those who tell an adult about it and those who don’t. If your child tells you that another child has been unkind to them, it’s important to make the time to listen.

A change in behaviour: Children who are being bullied may become withdrawn and anxious, or they may display angry and aggressive behaviour. Any unusual behaviour needs to be investigated.

Sleep disturbance: If your child begins to have trouble sleeping, ask yourself if there could be something bothering them.

To help stamp out bullying talk to your school about getting involved in Anti-Bullying Week running from 13 to 17 November. Run by the Anti-Bullying Alliance, the week aims to support schools with a range of free activities to prevent bullying and create a safe environment for pupils. www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

Anxiety about going to school: Again, if this is a change in behaviour, it’s time to explore what the reasons might be.

How to help your child. Listen to your child and stay calm.

However upset or angry you may feel, try to put those feelings to one side while your child is talking to you about what is happening to them. This is an opportunity for you to begin to teach your child how to approach and hopefully solve difficult problems. Staying calm and rational is a very useful skill.

Encourage your child to learn how to shrug off teasing. A bully will always home in on someone who seems weaker, and who gives them the reaction they want. Verbal bullying can be very hurtful to your child, but it’s useful to explain to them that a bully will bully all the more if they see a reaction. Although your child may be hurting inside, encourage them not to show it. Give them a chance to role play some scenarios at home, so that they can practice ways to react.

Ask your child what they want you to do. When my son was bullied at primary school, he wanted me to go to the school and sort it out. I remember him saying “I don’t think the adults know how bad it is.” He had tried to sort it out himself, but it hadn’t worked, so now he was taking a different approach. familiesonline.co.uk

Encourage your child to try to tackle their own problems, but always be there for them when they get to the point of asking for your help.

Build self- esteem. Prevention is always better than cure. Children who are confident and have good self-esteem are less likely to be bullied. That’s not to say it won’t happen, but people with resilience will always fare better.

What if my child is the bully? If this is the case then spend some time trying to work out why this could be happening. People become bullies for a number of reasons.

• Low self- esteem Those who don’t think much of themselves on the inside may feel the need to make themselves look ‘big’ on the outside.

• Following the crowd Bullies can sometimes appear to be very popular and being part of the ‘in’ crowd can be very important to young people.

• For safety If the jungle that is the school playground feels unsafe, then it may make sense to your child to align themselves to the person who looks the strongest.

• Learned behaviour Children who witness bullying behaviour around them may copy that behaviour and turn into a bully themselves.

And finally: If you have real concerns always talk to your child’s school about it. All schools should have a bullying policy.

Jane Rogers is a parenting expert and founder of The Cambridge Parent Coach. Her two parent workbooks are available on Amazon.

You can follow ‘The Cambridge Parent Coach’ on Facebook.

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

9

Childcare

Award winning music classes for babies & young children

Can You Really G Of Free Childcare

CHELTENHAM & GLOUCESTER T: 07768 457403 E: cheltenham.gloucester@monkeymusic.co.uk

Saturday classes now open!

Great year for Monkey Music!

There have never been so many ‘little monkeys’ making a song and dance all over Gloucestershire!

Monkey Music – the award-winning pre-school music group – celebrated its 15th birthday this year, with a packed out programme of classes all over the area. They are open to babies from 3 months right up to children of 4 years and are designed to educate and entertain through song, dance and play. The weekly classes are grouped according to age, taking youngsters on a real musical journey.

It was local mum-of-three Sian Ferris who brought Monkey Music to Cheltenham and Gloucester back in 2002, as the very first franchise outside of London. “I went to Monkey Music in London and loved how wonderful and inspirational the classes were. It was so creative and so much fun, for my children and for me too.

“I have now been running Monkey Music in Cheltenham and Gloucester for more than 15 years and I love it each and every day. 2017 has been really special as our 15th birthday year, with new classes and new venues too.”

One of the latest new venues is in Quedgeley, where classes now run every Friday morning at the Kingsway Community Centre. Classes also run in: Up Hatherley, Bishops Cleeve, Bourton-on-the-Water, Churchdown, Charlton Kings, Leckhampton and at Highbury Church and The Playfarm in Cheltenham. There’s plenty of time to come and join in the fun before the year’s out,” Sian added. “Christmas is always a lot of fun at Monkey Music – with plenty of snowball rolling and jingle bells!”

For your FREE TRIAL CLASS call Sian on 07768 457403 or email cheltenham.gloucester@monkeymusic.co.uk

By Ben Black The recent increase from 15 to 30 hours of free early education and childcare per week brings with it no shortage of complications for parents looking to take advantage of the scheme – and confusion is rife.

In theory, the new 30 hours of free childcare scheme should be hugely helpful for parents of 3 and 4 year olds in England who will be eligible. However, there are sure to be some difficulties in the transition and the reality may be somewhat different from what was envisaged.

Applications must be made by parents through the Government’s childcare service on the gov.uk website the term before they plan to start using free childcare. There are strict termly deadlines for application, so it's important for parents to keep a close eye on the Government’s cut off dates - or they will miss out on funding for the following term.

If parents are eligible, they’ll receive a code that will allow them to arrange their childcare place with any childcare provider on Ofsted’s Early Years Register. This code will allow for childcare with the provider for three months, before the code expires.

Parents will be notified before the expiry date, giving them the opportunity to log back in and either confirm or update their circumstances.

10

familiesonline.co.uk

Childcare

Get 30 Hours e Per Week?

To be eligible, children must be 3 or 4 years old, each parent (or sole parent) must be working, based in England and earning more than £120 per week (for those aged 25 or over) and no more than £100,000 year.

Participating childcare settings include nurseries and nursery classes, playgroups and pre-schools, childminders and Sure Start Children’s Centres. The key word is ‘participating’ as not all childcare settings will be participating in the scheme.

Parents who are not eligible will be able to continue receiving 15 hours of funded childcare. Those who become ineligible after commencing to use 30 hours funded childcare will receive a ‘grace period’ of 30 hours funded care, before returning to the 15 hour entitlement.

One of the key issues is the negative impact of the 30 hours funded childcare on the business models of childcare providers.

This is because the hourly rate received by the provider from the Government may not cover the running costs of setting, leading to a funding shortfall. As a result, some providers have chosen to opt out of the scheme all together, whilst others will be charging parents for additional things such as nappies and food, or charging more for babies and children under 2 years old, meaning that the so-called ‘free’ childcare may not actually be free at all.

The consequence of childcare providers opting out of the scheme is that parents need to act as quickly as possible to secure the places that are on offer. Some providers may choose to offer only some of the funded hours, so parents may also need to consider splitting their childcare between more than one setting.

Advocate A Time On Stage For Your Child The Mander Hall Academy of Performing Arts aims to develop skills in drama, song and dance leading to musical theatre and drame examinations, festivals and a final show at the end of each summer term.

Every Saturday during term-time they host a three-hour session of singing, dancing and acting at Balcarras Drama Studio in Charlton Kings, Cheltenham.

All the staff are DBS checked and have at least 10 years experience in teaching. Masterclass workshops are held at Easter and in the Summer holidays.

For a FREE taster session and more information go to www. manderhallacademy.co.uk or contact Kate on 07825 630 751

Another factor to consider is the time period over which the funded childcare hours are distributed. The existing 15 hours are usually taken weekly over 38 weeks and many participating parents in the new 30 hours scheme will be expecting to use them in the same way. However, childcare providers are perfectly entitled to offer fewer hours over a longer period.

Whilst this may be helpful for parents looking to spread the hours out to cover more weeks, it will mean that you actually get fewer than 30 hours of funded childcare each week.

It is important that parents are fully aware of all their options.

Check eligibility and in particular, discern whether your preferred childcare setting will offer some – or all – of the free hours and how they will implement the scheme.

Ben Black is CEO at My Family Care. You can find out more information on the new childcare options on the My Family Care website at www.myfamilycare.co.uk, as well as on the new Childcare Choices website set up by the HRMC at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk.

This also gives information about the new Tax Free Childcare Scheme. familiesonline.co.uk

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

11

Christmas

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 this year...

Wyevale Garden Centres Santa’s Grotto is a delight for children of all ages and grown-ups too 18 November - 24 December Wyevale Garden Centre Cheltenham, Evesham Road, GL50 4SJ Tel: 0844 288 5177

Where To Find

s a m t s i r Father Ch

the Bloobious Bright’. Follow them on an exciting journey set beneath the sea.

1 - 23 December

Clearwell Caves, The Rocks, Coleford, GL16 8JR www.clearwellcaves.com Wyevale Garden Centre Gloucester, Bath 27 December - 1 January Displays only.

Road, GL10 3DP Tel: 0844 288 5178 Santa Cruises at Gloucester www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk/events Waterways Museum *Dates may vary per centre.

Meet Santa in a different location! An ideal treat for all the family on a very Santa’s Farmyard Grotto at special one-hour cruise. Enjoy freshly Cattle Country brewed tea and coffee with hot mince pie Children will be taken on a tractor and for the adults, biscuits and cold drink for trailer ride around the farm before being the children whilst waiting for the magical dropped off at Santa’s Farmyard Grotto moment for Santa to arrive. Children in the Animal Experience Barn. Each child receive a present from Santa. will receive a present from Santa.

9-11 and 16-23 December

25-26 November, 2-3, 9-10 and Gloucester Waterways Museum, 16-23 December.

Llanthony Warehouse, Gloucester Docks Cattle Country Adventure Park, Berkeley Tel: 01452 318200 Heath Farm, Berkeley GL13 9EW www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/gloucesterwww.cattlecountry.co.uk waterways-museum Clearwell Caves GWSR Santa Specials Children see Father Christmas in his Choose to start your Christmas spectacular underground cavern, choose adventure from Cheltenham Race a present, then walk through the Course by steam train all the way to wonderful Christmas displays, which this Winchcombe (or the North Pole!) year tells the curious tale of ‘Cora and 12

through the long tunnel, and visit Santa and his elves in his grotto. Alternatively travel from Toddington station by a 1950's diesel rail car with Father Christmas and his young elves on board the train, spending lots of time sitting with each family.

Santa Steam Special 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 20-24 December £16 adult and £16 child (includes complimentary mince pies, biscuits, fruit, hot and cold drinks and present for child) Santa Rail Car Special 9-10, 16-17 and 20-21 December £14 adult and £14 child (includes complimentary mince pies, biscuits, fruit, hot and cold drinks and present for child) www.gwsr.com Newark Park Christmas Celebrations weekend The House will be decorated with foliage and trees from the Newark estate plus festive music and a seasonal trail for children. Young visitors have the chance to meet Father Christmas and receive an early Christmas gift 2-3 December Ozleworth, Wotton-under-Edge, GL12 7PZ www.nationaltrust.org.uk/newark-park

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

Families Gloucestershire

Christmas

In a fun Christmas story children meet Cora and the Bloobious Bright and follow them on an exciting journey, to discover if they will finally enjoy a Happy Christmas Day. Christmas Fantasy

Follow Cora on her extraordinary Christmas adventure...

UNDERGROUND STALLS

1

SAT NAV

GL16 8JR B42

28

CLEARWELL

31

FATHER CHRISTMAS

28

23

See Father Christmas, then follow this magical tale as you walk through the Caves and the story unfolds.

Admission

CHRISTMAS TEAS

(Baby gift from Santa optional £5.00) ~ Online Booking Only ~

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

Opening Times

1st December - 23rd December: 10.00am - 5.00pm Daily 24th December: 10.00am - 4.00pm

also late night every Friday last entry 7.00pm (27th December - 1st January Displays Only 10.00am - 4.00pm)

Clearwell Caves - Ancient Iron Mines Near Coleford, Royal Forest of Dean Gloucestershire. GL16 8JR

Tel: 01594 832535 www.clearwellcaves.com Remember that the underground temperature is a constant 10°C. Wear flat soled footwear with a good grip.

CAFÉ

STOCKING FILLERS

£12.00 per person Children 2 -14 years will receive a present from Santa.

Under 2 years Free

DECORATIONS

B42

B4

B42

Half way through the Caves, in the largest cavern will be underground Christmas stalls selling gifts, decorations and stocking fillers, as well as an underground café, for a welcome hot chocolate, before continuing the story.

COLEFORD Follow brown tourist signs from Coleford town centre

Se m

w

Cle

Ne

Rem constan

C

Book online: www.clearwellcaves.com

17

Clearwell Caves

Cotswold Farm Park It’s the most magical time of the year and the Farm Park really likes to get into the spirit of the season! Enrol yourself in Elf There are late night openings on Fridays Academy, visit Father Christmas in his (last entry 7pm) to allow working parents grotto and say hello to the animals of the to visit. It’s a great Christmas nativity story. underground adventure, for all ages.

25 November - 22 December Cotswold Farm Park, Bemborough Farm, Christmas Fantasy runs from the Kineton, Cheltenham GL54 5UG beginning of December through to early www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk/ January inside the caves and is a must for children and adults alike!

Batsford Arboretum Santa and his Elf are returning to their Clearwell Caves is one of the most magical grotto at Batsford Arboretum complex and ancient mine systems in this Christmas!

Britain.

9 - 10 December Batsford Arboretum and Garden Centre Booking is essential and available Follow Corawebsite on her extraordinary Batsford, Moreton-in-Marsh, on the Caves’ at: Christmas adventure...

Gloucestershire GL56 9AD www.clearwellcaves.com Book online: www.clearwellcaves.com www.batsarb.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

FATHER CHRISTMAS

Children see Father Christmas in his spectacular underground cavern, choose a present, then walk through the wonderful Christmas displays, which this year tells the curious tale of ‘Cora and the Bloobious Bright’.

A young girl goes on an incredible Christmas adventure. As she swims along, she discovers unusual footprints, what strange creature do they belong to?

UND

CHRISTMAS TEAS

This year the Elves and friends at Clearwell Caves, in the Forest of Dean, have been busy creating exciting displays for this popular underground Christmas Grotto.

20

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!

16-22 December WWT Slimbridge Wetlands Centre, Bowditch, Slimbridge, GL2 7BT www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge

Clearwell Caves Christmas Fantasy

17

Christmas in Puzzlewood Decorate and write your letter to Santa, then dress up as Little Red Riding Hood or the Woodcutter and go off into our magical woods to find him. Look out for the cheeky elves along the way.

9-10, 16-17 and 21-24 December.

Puzzlewood, Perrygrove Road, Coleford, GL16 8QB 01594 833187 www.puzzlewood.net

An Exciting Underground Christmas Fantasy Adventure

20

Winter Wonderland at Prinknash Bird and Deer Park Visit the Bird and Deer Park for the exceptional Winter Wonderland and make it into a Christmas to remember!

The Park has it’s own resident reindeer, Rudolf, Prancer and Comet who reside all year round, who knows, this may be the only place in the county to see real reindeer this Christmas?.

Weekends from 25 November and daily from 15 December Advance ticket bookings only.

Prinknash Road, Matson, Gloucester GL4 8EU 01452 812 727 www.thebirdpark.com

GIFTS 13

What’s On

Please check with the venue in case details have changed.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE BOURTON ON THE WATER Lighting of the beautiful Christmas Tree in the river Windrush at 6.30pm.

Friday 1 December

Southgate Street, Westgate Street and College Street. The Christmas Lights get switched on as the parade passes each set of lights on it’s way to the Cathedral.

Sunday 19 November. 4.30pm.

CHELTENHAM Brand new lights, free family events and traditional festivities will add some sparkle to the Christmas street party.

Saturday 25 November.

STROUD Stoud’s Christmas Goodwill Evening takes place throughout the town centre.

Lots of seasonal activities.

Friday 1 December. 4.00pm - 9pm.

CHELTENHAM – THE BREWERY The Brewery’s Christmas lights switch-on.

Saturday 25 November. 5.30pm.

CIRENCESTER Advent Festival sees a local celebrity turn on the lights accompanied by fireworks.

Saturday 2 December. 7pm COLEFORD GLOUCESTER New lights and various events.

Gloucester’s stunning annual Lantern Saturday 2 December. 5.30pm.

Procession. The parade travels along

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 pre-walking babies) Every Wednesday at Gardners Lane Children Centre, GL51 9JW 10.00am -11.30am 14

Families Gloucestershire

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.

Bishops Cleeve Library Children’s Centre.

Every Tuesday from 10.15 – 11.30 a.m.

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

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

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

NCT Drop Ins

CIRENCESTER BRANCH Bumps, Babes & Beyond: Every Wednesday 9.30am - 11.00am at Cirencester Baptist Church, Chesterton Lane.

TETBURY Torchlight procession from St Marys’ Church to the Market House. Santa with elves will help with the switch-on.

Thursday 7 December. 5:25pm.

TEWKESBURY Usual craft market stalls, entertainment and Father Christmas will turn on the lights. Free on street entertainment.

Sunday 19 November. 11am Contact: ParentSupport.cirencester@nct.org.uk BEST - Breastfeeding Support: Every Thursday, 10.00am – 11.30am at Springboard Children’s Centre, Trinity Road, Cirencester, GL7 1JU. Contact: breastfeeding@cirencesternct.org.uk GLOUCESTER BRANCH Gloucester Breakfast Club: Every Wednesday.

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

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

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

NCT Nearly New Sales

GLOUCESTER 25 November TETBURY 19 November CHELTENHAM AND NORTH COTSWOLD 25 November

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

familiesonline.co.uk

MORE

ONLINE

Dick and his cat as he travels from Gloucester to London to make his fortune and runs into the usual cast of Everyman favourites (including the return of TWEEDY) along the way. £5.00-£24.00.

familiesonline.co.uk

THEATRE AND PANTOMIME THE BACON THEATRE Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE 01242 258002 www.bacontheatre.co.uk 13 December. Little Blue Monster: Lost and Found. This funny, charming tale of friendship is the perfect treat for a younger audience.

Brought to life with puppetry, songs and music, this new show is suitable for ages 3+ and their grown-up. £10.00 (£8.00).

Family £32.00.

THE CHELTENHAM PLAYHOUSE 47-53 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HG 01242 522852 www.cheltplayhouse.org.uk 16 - 29 December. Pinocchio & The Christmas Wish. This enchanting new version of Carlo Collodi’s traditional fairy tale features an original score of songs, timeless characters whom you know and love - and a humorous and touching story that will melt your heart. £9.00 - £16.00.

CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL50 1QA 0844 576 2210 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk 18 December. Father Christmas Comes Up Trumps. As he tries to deliver the presents, his tummy rumbles, gurgles and groans, but Father Christmas knows he must keep it in – he doesn’t want to wake anyone up! £13.00.

22 December. The Snowman. Give the whole family a magical Christmas treat as The Snowman is shown on the big screen while the Mozart Symphony Orchestra provides a live soundtrack.£15.00 - £30.00 THE EVERYMAN THEATRE 7 - 10 Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HQ 01242 512 515 www.everymantheatre.org.uk 24 November - 4 January. Dick Whittington And His Cat. Join familiesonline.co.uk

What’s On

Please mention you saw the event in Families Gloucestershire magazine

THE ROSES THEATRE Sun Street, Tewkesbury GL20 5NX 01684 295074 www.rosestheatre.org 2 - 31 December. Sleeping Beauty. The Roses’ traditional family pantomime, written and directed by Ben Crocker, is sure to be another truly spectacular experience this Christmas in Tewkesbury. £12.00 - £27.50.

NEW Kids’ Cooking Classes and Parties!

Children love to cook! Join us

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

MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES CORINIUM MUSEUM Park Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire GL7 2BX 01285 655611 www.coriniummuseum.org 20 December: Stories with Santa.

Hear what life is like through tales from the North Pole. Santa will share his stories which feature elves, penguins, polar bears and Mrs Claus.

MUSEUM IN THE PARK Stratford Park, Stratford Road, Stroud GL5 4AF 01453 763394 www.museuminthepark.org.uk. £2 per adult, £3 per child (includes a gift from Santa).

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

@LILLIPUTCONCERT

Enjoy a warm welcome with top quality classical music and refreshments at BABIES AND TODDLERS Lilliput Concerts this winter. In November we welcome the Carousel LILLIPUT CONCERTS Clarinet Duo on 20 November, and on 18 St Andrew’s Church, Montpellier Street, December our ever-popular Christmas Cheltenham GL50 1SP concert features the festive sounds of www.facebook.com/LilliputConcerts/ Cotswold Brass. Lilliput Concerts 20 November 20. Carousel provides a very accessible introduction Clarinet Duo to classical concert-going for all ages.

18 December. Christmas with We can also arrange e-vouchers which Cotswold Brass. A classical concert make perfect presents for the new mum series especially for adults with babies who has everything else! and very young children to enjoy Buy Tickets Here: together www.lilliputconcerts.org.uk/cheltenham SLIMBRIDGE WETLAND CENTRE Bowditch, Slimbridge, Gloucestershire GL2 7BT 01453 890 333 www.wwt.org.uk/visit/slimbridge Slimbridge Cygnets. Toddlers meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month during term time.

Duration approx. 30 minutes. £2.00 per child. Must be booked in advance.

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

15

Families Gloucestershire

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

Please check with the venue in case details have changed.

Shop Local And Visit A Christmas Market

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 1 December. Late night shopping until 9pm Broadway - Late Night Christmas Shopping A host of festivities including carol singers and festive food. A great opportunity to support independent shops.Friday 24 November and Friday 1 December. 5:30pm – 8:30pm Charlton Kings Christmas Lights Switch On And Christmas Gift Fair. Outside Charlton Kings library and the Kings Hall. Friday 8 December. 3.00pm – 6.00pm.

Cheltenham Christmas Market Traditional wooden chalets line Cheltenham’s Promenade.

Thursday 23 November to Saturday 16 December.

10am – 6pm Monday – Saturday,11am – 5pm Sundays

decorated stalls selling artisan food, handmade goods, unique gifts, and bespoke fashion items that you will not find on the high street. Thursday 16 - Sunday 26 November.

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 Christmas trees! Weekends of 2 - 3, 9 - 10 and 16 - 17 December. 10.00am – 5.30pm The Roses’ Christmas Market Roses Theatre, Sun Street, Tewkesbury, GL20 5NX. A unique Christmas shopping experience with a variety of stalls.

Saturday 18 November. 9.30am -4.30pm. Free entry.

Forest Showcase Christmas Food Festival Beechenhurst Lodge, Speech House Road, Nr Coleford, Forest of Dean B4226, GL16 7EJ. A new festival full of varied festive Christmas Fair at Cheltenham College treats, handmade gifts and local produce. Sunday 26 November. 10am - 4pm. Adults £3, children £2.

Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7LD 01242 265694 Over 70 stalls offering an amazing array of treasures. Sunday 26 November. 10am – 4pm. Tickets: £5. Complimentary glass Christmas Carols & Market at Gloucester Cathedral Visit the spectacular Cathedral Cloisters to browse the of 'Fizz' with advance tickets. seasonal stalls and listen to bite-sized bursts of festive praise sung on the hour by Choirs of the Cathedral Saturday 9 Gloucester Quays Victorian Christmas Market December. 10.00am.- 4.30pm.

A magical Christmas market boasting over 250 uniquely

BL

From the organisers of The Baby Show

2 -3 Dec NEC Birmingham

DEACK F AL RIDA S! Y

Book Tickets Now Save Over 40%

Quote Code FAMILIESG

Courtesy of Kiddiewinkles

babytotoddlerevents.co.uk

A one-stop-shop for everything parents need for their babies and toddlers up to 4 years of age • Prams & pushchairs • Buggies & strollers • Nursery furniture & furnishings • Toys • Clothing • Feeding equipment • Car seats • Travel • Healthcare & wellbeing • Books • Gifts • Bathing & changing • Accessories • Carriers • Safety & security • Maternity • Baby and toddler activity classes • Outdoor play equipment • and much, much more...

Event Sponsors and Partners

Saving is based on the standard on-the-door ticket price of £12. Advance Box Office closes midnight 01/12/2017. £1 transaction fee applies.

16

J353248_BTT03_Families_N_Advert_Landscape_180x130mm_2017_V4.indd 4 Families Gloucestershire To advertise call: 01684 770566 or email: editor@familiesgloucestershire.co.uk

16/10/2017 17:14 familiesonline.co.uk