Families Hereford and Worcester March/April 14

The really useful magazine for parents of children 0-12 years

Issue No 26 March/April 2014

Families Hereford & Worcester is for Sale See page 3

Picture courtesy of Whitecube Photography www.whitecubephotography.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

News & Views

Editor’s Letter Dear readers After all the horrid weather we have experienced recently, let’s hope that the sun will be shining on us over the Easter holidays.

In this issue, we have lots of ideas on places to visit and things to do, so come rain or shine there should be something to suit all ages. Please mention “Families” when booking.

Daniel and Salsa

Don’t forget to follow us on twitter @FamiliesHW and like us on facebook FamiliesHandW. We are constantly updating our website so why not visit www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk and register.

I am now working on the May/Jun issue including a special Children’s Parties feature. If you would like to advertise and promote your business to 44,000 local parents then please call me on 01386 791422 or email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk.

Copy deadline is Friday 11th April.

We offer free advice and a free design service.

Wishing you a very Happy Easter!

Karen Craven (local Mum of 3, Step Mum to 2 plus Adoptive Mum to Salsa our retriever)

Editor, Families Hereford and Worcester

Contact details: Tel: 01386 791422 Mob: 07981 564053 email: editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

In this issue

Like us on Facebook FamiliesHandW

02 02 04 05 10 12 14 16 17

Follow us on Twitter @FamiliesHW

Editor’s Letter News & Views Ed’s Reading Room Education The Science of Play Easter Holiday Clubs Clubs and Classes Viewpoint: 7 Steps to a Smarter Child What’s On

Next issue: May/Jun 2014, Editorial and booking deadline: Friday 11th April 2014

All content Copyright 2014 Families Hereford and Worcester Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford and Worcester 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 Hereford and Worcester is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the content nor for any consequence.

Design: Natalie Schmidt at www.matobodesign.com, Tel: 020 8676 2857 Print: The Manson Group, St Albans at www.manson-grp.co.uk, Tel: 01727 848440 Cover Photograph: Whitecube Photography

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The winner of the National Trust’s Spooky Story competition is announced Lara Hodgson, aged nine, was selected as the winner with her terrifying tale The Secret Priest Hole, which was inspired by her visit to Coughton Court in Warwickshire.

The competition, which ran over Halloween last year, was open to children aged 12 and under. More than 180 children submitted a 500 word story inspired by a visit to one of the National Trust’s places in the Midlands.

Lara’s winning story was inspired by one of Coughton Court’s more gruesome artefacts; the blood stained chemise said to have been worn by Mary Queen of Scots when she was beheaded. Her prize was to have her story illustrated and made into a book that she can share with her family and friends.

Lara said: “I entered the competition because I love writing and there were lots of historical facts about Coughton Court that I could entwine with some of my own ideas to make an interesting story.

When I found out I’d won I was ecstatic and ran round screaming.”

Further information about Spooky Stories, including a film of Lara reading The Secret Priest Hole at Coughton Court, can be found at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlands

Major new research into early detection of autism and ADHD is seeking babies The world-leading ‘Babylab’ at Birkbeck, University of London, is launching a new Europe-wide study of the early emergence of autism and ADHD. With over £2.5 million in funding, Professor Mark Johnson and his team are now embarking upon the Studying Autism and ADHD Risk in Siblings (STAARS) project, which will map brain development from birth in order to identify the earliest signs of these lifelong social communication and attention disorders.

The research will focus on infants who have older siblings with autism or ADHD as these infants are at particularly high risk for these disorders.

Although parents may notice symptoms of these conditions from infancy, children are often not diagnosed until they are in nursery or school. Earlier diagnosis of these children would help make it possible to design earlier and more effective interventions that may prevent symptoms from developing, and improve the quality of life for individuals with autism/ ADHD and their families.

Can you and your baby help? Expenses are paid and mothers we met said they spent a very special day with their child, which they really enjoyed. To read more about the STAARS project and to take part go to www.staars.org March – April 2014

News & Views Would you like to fit work around your children, rather than fit children around work?

Would you like an extra income, OR new, flexible career with full, on going training and support, working part time, from home?

• Are you tired of having to book holiday from work, and await it being approved, to enjoy precious moments with your child at school events, and during the school holidays?

• Do you worry about taking time off work to look after your child when school is closed or they are ill?

If you’re looking for a business that actually fits around your children and current job commitments, with incomes from £200 - £2000+ a month then contact Lucie for further information today on 0781 7491497 or email: ljkkey@btinternet.com.

Could you be the next editor of Exciting business opportunity for an organised mum or dad!

Work from home, fit your hours around your family and benefit from owning a wellloved established business.

For more details, call Karen on 01386 791422

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Hereford & Worcester

Young Driver event revs up for first time in Worcestershire A groundbreaking driver training course aimed at 11-17 year olds has just launched in Worcestershire. The first Young Driver event was held on Saturday 25th January on a specially designed course at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, offering anyone over the age of 11 the chance to drive a car in a safe but realistic environment. Research shows that early driver training can reduce accidents in newly qualified drivers by more than a half.

We couldn’t make the launch unfortunately but I took my 17 year old daughter Bethany to Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire in February where she enjoyed an hour long lesson with a qualified driving instructor. At a Young Driver session, dual controlled cars are used and tuition is provided by highly qualified CRB-checked driving instructors. With a full road system including traffic signs, youngsters are encouraged to consider responsible driving. Bethany was handed a personalised Drive Diary afterwards which charted what had been covered in the lesson so when we do very shortly arrange driving lessons for her, the driving instructor will instantly be able to see her previous experience.

Malvern is Young Driver’s 33rd venue. Driving tuition is available for disabled youngsters and Young Driver can also cater for birthday parties. Places must be booked in advance.

For more information, to book a lesson or to buy vouchers visit www.youngdriver.eu or call 0844 371 9010.

A 20% discount is currently available on lessons valid until 31st April and can be claimed by quoting code FAM20.

Looking for a job that you love and fits around the family?

Claire says “The best thing for me about being an Avon representative is the flexibility that it offers me. I have two small children and have been able to fit it completely around them. I love the fact that I have my own business and can set my own hours! I have been an Avon representative for almost six years now and a Sales Leader for two. I have a small but growing team of representatives, all working to make their business a success.The Avon products are amazing and really do sell themselves. It’s also great to catch up with customers every three weeks and most are now friends.This really is a job that I love! Avon is free to try, so for more information or an immediate start contact me today”. Contact Claire on 07981 493439 or email claire.finlinson123@btinternet.com March – April 2014

Dobble-Tastic! “Remarkable” Sales earn Worcester Toy Shop Big Pay Day! At the London Toy Fair recently, Worcester’s Wise Owl Toys were presented with a giant cheque for £1,011 for their success with retailer promotion, the “Dobble Challenge”.

The “Challenge” encourages retailers to demonstrate the card game, Dobble, in their store, earning a £1 bonus for every unit sold over a one year period. Wise Owl Toys were the most successful retailer in the country to take part in the Dobble Challenge, managing to sell over a staggering 1000 copies.

The final figure of 1011 games was more than were sold at Hamleys, Harrods or even WH Smith over the same time period.

Wise Owl Toys owner, Mark Stewart, was naturally delighted to receive the windfall and has now turned his attention to next year’s “Challenge”.

“We love the game, so demonstrating it in our store was something that came naturally to us. It’s brilliant to be rewarded by the supplier for this. We now aim to sell even more in next year’s Challenge!”

(Editor’s Note: Do have a go at Dobble in the Wise Owl Toy Shop. My 6 year old and I did and we just had to buy it). www.wiseowltoys.co.uk

Easter Box craft sets The Little Letter Company now has their popular Easter Box craft sets available for pre-order. These delighful box sets are delivered addressed directly to your child and contain a range of ten Easter themed craft kits to dip into throughout the Easter break. Other than scissors and tape the kits contain everything you need to create the pre-designed crafts. Just £20 including P&P. www.littlelettercompany.co.uk www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

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Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my Spring book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online at www.edontheweb.com and from good bookstores. Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools.

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS

Arthur and the Witch by Johanne Mercier

The Great Brain Robbery by Anna Kemp

(Phoenix Yard Books £4.99)

(Simon and Schuster £5.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Arthur discovers a secret hiding-place full of blueberries and picks lots of them as a surprise for his grandmother. She is delighted and makes a pie for Arthur and his grandfather but when she realises where Arthur found the fruit she becomes rather worried. So Grandma calls Cousin Eugene who she knows will have good advice in these difficult – but amusing – circumstances.

ED SAYS: ‘All the children in Frankie’s class are desperate to get their hands on the latest toy, a mechanimal. Frankie is delighted to receive a Gadget the Rabbit for his birthday – but it soon becomes obvious that all is not right. There is a dreadful scheme afoot to infiltrate children’s minds using these robot toys. Will Frankie and his friends be able to stop this evil scheme before it is too late?

‘This is a super story for boys and girls alike, reading on their own or reading together – and it is complemented by fantastic illustrations throughout.’

‘This madcap action-packed adventure is a real page-turner.

There are fantastic characters in this laugh out loud tale that is enhanced by amusing illustrations.’

My Funny Family Gets Bigger by Chris Higgins

The Woebegone Twins by Christopher William Hill

(Hodder £4.99)

(Orchard Books £9.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Mattie is excited about going back to school but realises not all children are as happy as she is, particularly one of her sisters whose rather odd behaviour causes a lot of concern. The family are expecting a very special delivery at Christmas time – could this be part of the explanation?

In this delightfully humorous tale, the strength of family life shines through.

ED SAYS: ‘Here is the latest tale from Schwartzgarten, the town children love to read about but would probably sooner not live in! The twins Greta and Feliks live with their adored Aunt Gisela who used to be an actress.

Through her they come across some amazing people such as Mr Morbide who has a remarkable resemblance to a vampire. The twins soon learn that people and events are not always as they first seem!

‘This lovely book with its super illustrations will be enjoyed by newly-confident readers. It is also ideal for reading together.’

‘This is a brilliant story with wonderful characters. It will delight readers who prefer the extraordinary to the ordinary and who enjoy books in which imaginative ideas burst from the pages.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning 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 are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at maggiehumphreys@aol.com.

Personal Tutors

in Malvern, Worcestershire and Herefordshire Key Stage 1, 2, 3, GCSE, A level, Common Entrance, Scholarship, IB. Most subjects covered, including English, Maths, Sciences, Languages, Music, IT. For information & enquiries call or email kate@helptuition.co.uk/ 01684 562439/

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March – April 2014

Award-Winning Nursery Celebrates 15 Years of Success A leading nursery group in Redditch celebrated its 15th birthday recently. Staff and children at Bright Kids Nursery Group dressed up as princesses and heroes on Friday 17th January to mark the occasion.

Children at the Bright Kids’ Crabbs Cross setting were also thrilled to welcome real-life heroes including an RAF cadet, an Army Cadet, and fire-fighters from Redditch Green Watch.

Set up by mum-of-two Tricia Wellings, age 51, Bright Kids’ flagship setting on The Slough, Studley opened on 18th January 1999 – with just four children on the books and three members of staff. After obtaining Lottery funding to set up out of school care and filling the books within the first 12 months, Tricia then opened the Crabbs Cross Nursery in Sept 2001.

By 2002 it had also expanded to out of school care. Then in 2004 the third, and biggest Bright Kids setting, which also included out of school care, opened in Northfield.

Tricia said: “We believe that happy staff, equals happy children. And that is what it is all about – the children. We always aim to provide new and exciting challenging environments, ensuring that our staff and settings are the best they can be for the children.”

Later this year Tricia and her team will open up a new training facility at Millennium House on Studley High Street – Bright Kids Head Office – where they aim to offer bite size courses in Leadership and Management and Early Years Education to their own staff and others. For more information on all 3 nurseries, please visit www.bright-kids.co.uk

March – April 2014

Education

A lesson in EU politics for students at Lucton School

Anthea McIntyre, MEP for the West Midlands, visited Lucton School recently to give a talk on the European Union.

The Herefordshire based MEP met with students studying history and politics and discussed her journey into politics, her work as a committee member on the Agriculture Committee, the Civil Liberties, Justice & Home Affairs Committee and finally the Employment Committee for which she is the UK Conservative Spokesperson in the European Parliament.

Rachel Phillips, history teacher at Lucton School said “We were absolutely delighted that Miss McIntrye could join us. It was fascinating to get a first-hand insight into the role of an MEP and the day-to-day workings of the European Parliament.”

Miss McIntyre remarked, “It was a pleasure of speaking to pupils at Lucton School and I was very impressed with their interest in Europe and their understanding evidenced by the challenging questions they asked.”

Lucton is a day and boarding school for girls and boys aged 6 months to 18 years, set in beautiful rural Herefordshire, boarding Shropshire. www.luctonschool.org

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5 Hereford & Worcester

Education

SCHOOLS’ OPEN DAYS School

Age

BOWBROOK HOUSE SCHOOL

Co-ed 4-16

Saturday 8th March Open Morning

01905 841242 www.bowbrookhouseschool.co.uk

BREDON SCHOOL

Co-ed 4-18

Tuesday 25th March 2.00 - 4.00 pm

01684 293156 www.bredonschool.org

Co-ed 2-7

Monday 3rd March Open Afternoon for Pre-prep and Nursery 3.00 – 5.00 pm Monday 10th March Open Afternoon for Year 1 3.00 – 5.00 pm

01527 579679 or email admissions@bromsgrove-school.co.uk www.bromsgrove-school.co.uk

DODDERHILL

Co-ed 8 weeks3 years, co-ed 3-7 and girls 8-16

Monday 10th March 10.00 am – 12.00 noon and 1.30 – 3.00 pm

01905 778290 or email enquiries@dodderhill.co.uk www.dodderhill.co.uk

HEREFORD CATHEDRAL SCHOOL

Co-ed 3-11, 11-16, 16-18 years

Tuesday 11th March 8.30 – 10.45 am

01432 363506 or email admissions@ herefordcs.com www.herefordcs.com

BROMSGROVE PREPREPARATORY AND NURSERY SCHOOL

Dates

Contact

KING’S HAWFORD

Co-ed 2 -11

Monday 10th – 14th March 9.00 am – 3.30 pm Open Week

01905 451292 or email hawford@ksw.org.uk www.ksw.org.uk

MOFFATS

Co-ed 4 -13

Tuesday 11th March 9.30 am – 12.30 pm

01299 841230 or email: office@moffats.co.uk www.moffats.co.uk

Saturday 15th March 10.00 am – 12.30 pm

01905 357786 www.stmarys.org.uk

Bank Holiday Monday 5th May 9.30 am – 4.30 pm

01684 544108 or email registrar@thedowns.malcol.org www.thedownsmalvern.org.uk

ST MARY’S WORCESTER

Co-ed 3mths-5yrs, Girls 5-11, Girls 11-18

THE DOWNS, MALVERN COLLEGE PREP

Co-ed 3-13

Labels4Kids Labels4Kids have expanded the range on their new website with the introduction of another multi pack of labels.

Want snap on tags and vinyl labels as well? Then why not combine them with the new snappy school pack? This gives you the advantage of vinyl waterproof labels for all your non-clothing items, two bag tags as well as re-applying snap on snappy tags etched with a name (and also a phone number if you wish). Other new lines include TSA luggage straps personalised with name, or cut and bagged sew-on labels which have the edges pre-sealed to stop fraying – no need to fold over the edges before sewing! Remember to sign up an account and for newsletters for the latest updates and offers. They also run competitions regularly on the Labels4Kids facebook page. www.labels4kids.com

WHERE THE INDIVIDUAL CAN FLOURISH

Open Mornings:

Saturday 8th March and Saturday 10th May 9.30am – 12.30pm

BOWBROOK HOUSE SCHOOL Peopleton, Nr Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 2EE Telephone: 01905 841242/Fax: 01905 840716 Email: enquiries@bowbrookhouseschool.co.uk

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• Safe, Sensitive & Fun Swimming Lessons • Small classes • Lessons for Toddlers, Pre–school age and school age children • Teachers in the water • Lovely warm water (32 degrees) Weekly lessons 7 days a week and Learn to Swim Courses in school holidays.

01527 821978

Free trial taster sessions

info@chessgroveswim.co.uk www.chessgroveswim.co.uk March – April 2014

Education Editor’s Recommendations for World Book Day World Book Day on 6th March is the biggest celebration of books anywhere with millions of book tokens given out, great free books for kids plus events taking place in schools, libraries and bookshops. Nominate your favourites now at www.worldbookday.com.

Lonely Planet’s World Search One of the perks of my job is receiving children’s books to review which Daniel, my 6 year old, and I love to do. We were sent Incredible Animals recently which I would recommend to any child aged 5 and up. World Search from Lonely Planet introduces a new generation of future travellers to the wider world around them. Aimed at readers aged 5 and up, these fun titles let kids lift the lid on a range of topics including Amazing Jobs, Incredible Animals and Busy Places.

Packed with fun illustrations to bring the books to life, each book features over 50 sturdy, easy to lift flaps to help children explore places, people, and cultures. Busy, colourful scenes will keep young readers engaged, whilst search-and-find activities on each page help develop concentration skills.

All three titles are available in stores priced £9.99 each and from shop.LonelyPlanet.com.

Arvor’s School Days I have to say that Daniel couldn’t put this book down. He brought it downstairs every evening for me to read and then he took it back upstairs to read in bed by himself. I would thoroughly recommend this book for children aged 6 and upwards who will be able to relate to Arvor as it shows you really don’t have to be good at everything.

Arvor is a clumsy dragon who is hopeless at fire-breathing, bad at spelling and games, his flying skills are disastrous, and none of his classmates want him on their team. But what they sometimes overlook is that Arvor is kind, loyal, and fun; in fact, he’s very much the sort of dragon you would want for a friend.

Follow his adventures at Caderbrith, the boarding school for dragons in Wales.

The author, Jonathan Ferrier, has 3 children and 5 grandchildren. He was a GP for twenty five years before becoming a dyslexia teacher and assessor. The illustrator, Matt Rowe, lives in Worcestershire with his wife and two sons and this is his first book illustration.

Arvor’s School Days is published by Mereo Books and is priced at £7.95 from www.amazon.co.uk.

March – April 2014

Please call Karen on 01386 791422 to book your advertising space for future issues.

Teresa Jones – Personal Tutor PGCE Primary, Hornsby Course in Literacy & Dyslexia Level 4 • Literacy & Numeracy Support KS1 to KS4 1:1 • Study Skills & Exam Techniques (English GCSE) – 1:1/Small groups

Tel: 07999 534525 e-mail: Trees27@btinternet.com ‘Your child is my priority’

FRIENDLY HOST FAMILIES WANTED To host international teenagers for up to 4 weeks from 13th July to 10th August. £161 per student per week. Students will be on a full-time programme from Mon-Sat and at home on Sundays.

For details & application form: www.summerschool.uk.com/homestay or phone (01905) 619877.

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

7 Hereford & Worcester

Education

prep school on this basis as across the board the trend is to move from single-sex education to co-ed.

But it isn’t just about the exams, in both cases the prep schools can provide far more, including a wide range of sports and more specialised subjects, such as Latin, the pupils will need as they move through their education.

Prep schools: what are they and how to choose the right one?

By Ellen Arnison

Traditionally a preparatory school was where children went to ‘prepare’ to go to one of the major British public schools, such as Eton and Harrow, working up to them sitting the Common Entrance exam at 13. However, while that picture still exists in some cases, the situation now varies widely.

Broadly, there are two kinds of prep school – one where the children leave at 11, perhaps after an 11+ exam, and one where the children sit the Common Entrance exam then leave at 13.

In some cases youngsters attend a prep school until they reach their 11+ exam and then transfer to a local (state) grammar school. The smaller classes and more focused attention in a prep school can improve their chances. This is particularly appealing to parents who think their child won’t get what they require from the nearby state primaries.

Traditionally boys attended prep schools up to age 13, either to sit the Common Entrance exam (part of the admissions process for academically selective secondary schools) and then to move on elsewhere or to graduate to the attached senior school almost automatically. However, girls as well as boys now attend

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Julie Robinson, a former prep school head and Education and Training Director at the Independent Association of Prep Schools said: “They say the independent sector seems to bring a set of high expectations: a huge amount of time invested in pastoral support and personal development for the children, excellent facilities and a focus on learning.

“Parents believe their investment in fees is an investment in their children’s future.”

However, the range of places to invest and ways to ensure the best for your children is enormous. At first glance the decision about whether or not to use a prep school and, indeed, which one is best can seem bewildering.

There are more than 1,000 prep schools in the UK taking children to 11 and 13, traditionally they are boarding schools but nowadays many parents chose to send their children daily.

Equally some prep schools will be part of ‘all-through’ schools catering for from the age of three up to 18 and some will be attached to a senior school.

Some prep schools adhere to the National Curriculum but they are not bound to, which can give them freedom to offer a broader and more varied curriculum that isn’t burdened by tests.

There isn’t always an entrance exam for preps schools, in many cases the school will just want to interview you and your child, perhaps inviting him or her to spend a ‘taster’ session in class.

March – April 2014

This also allows teaching staff to observe how your child fits in.

Education

The decision is easier when you look to the end destination – the senior school – work backwards. Your decision will be narrowed by considering if there is a school attached to your preferred secondary and what kinds of criteria they use to select pupils.

Ask yourself the following questions: n Does the school fit the basic requirements of you and your child in terms of gender, day and/or boarding, religious denomination, curriculum and location? n Does it meet your educational objectives in terms of offering the exams your child will need to sit? n Will your child be happy there? Do you get good feedback from other parents and children? n Does the school get a good report? How are the exam results, the general atmosphere and the teaching quality? n Do you like the ethos of school? It’s usually very clear and follows strong leadership from the Head. n What is the teaching and staff turnover like? n What is the curriculum? n How big are the classes? n What is the school’s approach to discipline and rules? n What did the most recent inspection report say? n What are the pastoral care facilities like? n Does the school offer the facilities you would like to see, such as for sport, music or drama? n Is there a wide-enough range of extra curricular activities? n Does the school give value for money for what you want?

Be careful to take extras into account.

King’s Hawford Not all schools are the same. At King’s Hawford you will find a school with a clear focus on creating strong foundations for life.

We believe that in the early years of a child’s education it is important to offer a breadth of opportunity and a quality of experience that will develop a love of learning and a desire to be involved. We want our children to enjoy school and to look forward to each day with a strong desire to give of their best.

We recognise that all of our children have differing talents and we want them to appreciate that hard work will assist them to make the most of these talents. In striving for academic excellence and for achievement in their school activities we believe that our children will best be able to develop a real appreciation of the world around them.

When they leave us as well rounded, confident individuals they will be able to grasp the opportunities that life will present in the future. Showing consideration, respecting yourself and others, valuing good manners, seeking involvement and being ready to commit yourself fully to every activity – these are the qualities which will take them far. www.ksw.org.uk March – April 2014

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

9 Hereford & Worcester

© Maygutyak – Fotolia.com

The Science of Play

The Science of Play As the Easter break comes upon us, many parents will be thinking about how to entertain their children. Dr David Whitebread at Cambridge University shares his views on what constitutes effective play and tackles some of the myths and misconceptions around the types of play children engage in today. Dr Whitebread is supporting National Science and Engineering Week, which aims to raise awareness of the important role science has in many aspects of our lives. A whole host of scientific topics will be explored during the Week, which takes place from 14th to 23rd March. Adults and children alike can attend free events across the UK in a range of fun environments. To find out about these events and how you can take part, visit www.britishscienceassociation.org/NSEWevents

By Dr David Whitebread, Senior Lecturer in the Psychology of Education, Cambridge University

Top Tips for Parents 1. Play with your children, doing something that gives you genuine enjoyment. That enjoyment is infectious and creates the right, emotionally warm environment for play and development. Make sure the time you spend with your kids is quality time for you both.

2. Try and be open to giving your children the widest

range of experiences. Consider settings which don’t have set or prescribed tasks and discover: a wood, the beach, for example. Make-up your fun from the resources in nature.

3. Give children as much autonomy as you can.

Allow them to take risks. Let them get dirty! They need to work out the rules of the world and boundaries, without you taking over.

Different types of play Physical play

© Mat Hayward - Fotolia.com

n Most parents would recognise that physical play (such as running, climbing and gymnastics) helps a child develop their whole body and hand-eye co-ordination and is important in building strength and endurance. But it also provides a crucial means for children to develop their emotional intelligence.

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n Encouraging children to get physical isn’t just about letting them loose outside, it’s also about creating opportunities at home.

So encouraging play through things like craft activities, helps children with their fine motor skills, essential when it comes to learning to write and even playing musical instruments. Due to their absorbing nature, it has even been shown to help children develop their concentration and perseverance skills.

Create an obstacle course in the garden. Create time targets and challenges (ie do the course on just one leg!). Give craft activities a purpose, for example, create posters for an Easter egg hunt or party.

March – April 2014

Play with objects

The Science of Play

n Touching, sorting, building and making objects encourages children to organise their thinking and helps them learn how to solve problems. Children have to pick the right strategy to complete the task, and then stay on track to complete it.

Creativity comes in here, as does the use of language, as children often talk to themselves when they broach these tasks as a way of organising their thoughts.

Get your children to build their own skyscraper. Arm them with different materials to build at home or in the garden.

Symbolic play n Artistic activities such as drawing, dance, and even developing silly rhymes, gives children the opportunity to develop their language and interpretation skills as they start to decode what is going on around them. It can even make them nicer! A study in 2010 of almost 100 four year-olds found that children who take part in music making were more likely to show cooperative and helpful behaviour.

Get your children to create their own music compilation for their best friend or family member. Encourage them to add their own tracks for that special touch.

Pretend play n Pretend play can have a serious side too. Dressing up, playing with dolls and miniature figures gives children the chance to rehearse some of the scenarios they already see or might face in their future life, whether it’s expressing how to care for someone (such as their favourite doll) or tackling aggressive situations.

Make a challenge to act like a member of their family, or their favourite TV character for a day. It might be their mum, Homer Simpson, or Daddy Pig!

Playing with rules n We live by rules and playing by the rules in sports, board games, card games and computer games helps children adjust to the reality that they cannot always do, say, or act how they wish to. n The use of electronic and computer games by today’s children is another particular area of anxiety for parents and teachers.

Too much screen time obviously prevents your child from doing the range of other activities that is beneficial to them, so keep these tech tools in your armoury, but keep time restricted on use. There is some evidence that well-designed videogames can enrich play resources for children and their families.

Many parents are concerned about videogame overuse but the key is to make it interactive. So get involved! Challenge them to their favourite game in return for them participating in an activity of your choice.

References 1. ‘Developmental Psychology & Early Childhood Education’ (Sage, 2013). David Whitebread.

Available on Amazon and at all good book shops.

2. ‘The Importance of Play’ (Report written for the Toys Industry of Europe, March 2012).

David Whitebread with Marisol Basilio, Martina Kuvalja and Mohini Verma. www.importanceofplay.eu/IMG/pdf/dr_david_whitebread_-_the_importance_of_play.pdf

To advertise in future issues of Families Hereford and Worcester please call Karen on 01386 791422

March – April 2014

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

11 Hereford & Worcester

Easter Workshops and Holiday Clubs Dance classes, projects and performances in Herefordshire and Worcestershire for all ages from 4 to 84!

• Mini Movers • Dance Clubs • Youth Dance • Contemporary • Urban Dance • Choreography • After school clubs www.dancefest.co.uk

01905 611199

Easter Workshops and Holiday Clubs

Please telephone first to book and check dates, times and availability. Don’t forget to mention that you saw the holiday club listed in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

Girls Pamper Parties!

We are celebrating our 2nd birthday!

Free candy buffet at any party booked in March.

*party must be booked in March but can take place any time in 2014*

Contact the pamper fairy to get a party tailored to you!

www.glitzngiggles.co.uk

07817704933

EASTNOR POTTERY, LEDBURY Themed workshops take place every school holiday and include either a go on the potter’s wheel or work with coloured slips.

Wednesday 16th and Thursday 17th April for ages 4-8 and 9-12 Tel: 01531 633886 or email admin@eastnorpottery.co.uk www.eastnorpottery.co.uk GREEN FROG POTTERY, MALVERN is a pottery painting studio in Malvern, Worcestershire. They also offer 3D baby casts and mosaics, silver hand and footprint jewellery. Ring to book a table in school holidays. Tel: 01684 561778 or email info@greenfrogpottery.co.uk www.greenfrogpottery.co.uk HONEYBOURNE POTTERY is based in Honeybourne, nr Evesham. Adults and children can enjoy working with clay; also pottery courses, birthday parties and corporate team building groups in a friendly, peaceful atmosphere either on the potters’ wheel or their readyto-paint range. Tel: 01386 832855 or email info@honeybournepots.co.uk www.honeybournepots.co.uk

Traditional Old Fashioned Sweet Shop

THE MOCKINGBIRD SHOP, THE HOP POCKET, BISHOPS FROME, HEREFORD The Mockingbird children’s shop stocks a combination of new and nearly new baby and children’s items including clothes, toys, high chairs, nursery equipment, newborn hampers, nappy cakes, wigwams, waterproofs, micro-scooters, cards, crafts and much more.

They also offer crafts including ceramics painting, decoupage and baby hand/foot prints, plus a variety of pre-school activities. They buy and sell great quality nearly new items of clothing, toys and nursery equipment. To find out how you can sell your items please visit our website www.themockingbirdshop.co.uk The Hop Pocket is a great place for families to visit as it has excellent on site facilities such as a café, children’s playground and free parking! Tel: 01531 805075 or email info@themockingbirdshop.co.uk www.themockingbirdshop.co.uk

DANCE, DRAMA AND MUSIC

JETS CRAFT CAFE, BROMSGROVE is Bromsgrove’s pottery painting, decopatching, teddy bear making, enamelling and soap making and much more craft café. Also delicious cakes, cream teas, icecream and refreshments. Ring to book a table in school holidays.

Tel: 01527 873866 or email sandrakitching@JETSPotteryPainting.co.uk www.jetspotterypainting.co.uk

ALL SORTS OF PERFORMING ARTS, WORCESTER Brand New Classes for ages 3-16 Yrs held at Worcester St Johns, Nunnery wood and Worcester Swimming Pool Leisure Centres commencing 26th February. Pop Dance, Musical Theatre, Cheerleading, Disney & Party Time. Take part in future shows. Easter and Summer Camps also available. Email allsorts.pa@gmail.com www.allsorts-pa.info

MANIC CERAMICS, HEREFORD is a pottery painting studio in Hereford also providing adults’ and children’s birthday parties, hen parties, handprints on pottery, celebration plates etc. There is a pottery shop and you can purchase light refreshments. Ring to book a table in school holidays. Tel: 01432 277712 or email info@manic-ceramics.com www.manic-ceramics.com

ARTRIX, BROMSGROVE Drop in Crafternoon Spring Awakening. Make and take Spring crafts and creations home with you.

Suitable for ages 3-10 years. Monday 14th April

Please call Karen on 01386 791422 to book your advertising space for future issues.

Wacky Wild West – Dynamic Drama Day Singing, dancing and drama in a fun-filled Western based cowboys and cowgirls performance day with a short show at 4pm. Suitable for ages 5-10 years.

Tuesday 15th April 10.00 am - 4.00 pm Tel: 01527 577330 www.artrix.co.uk

Sweets • Gifts • Pocket Money Toys & more

Party Bags to order – choose from a large range of sweets & pocket money toys.

10+ party bags = free party bag for birthday child

27 Broad Street, Pershore 01386 553262 www.sweettraditions.co.uk

Personal Training & Pilates A healthy and balanced approach to your nutrition and exercise to achieve the body you want.

For more information visit www.librafitness.co.uk or contact Maria Krick at maria@librafitness.co.uk/ 07814 507 058

12

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

March – April 2014

Easter Workshops and Holiday Clubs COURTYARD, HEREFORD The Tiger who came to tea A storytelling workshop with drama activities to get kids entertained and active, based around this enchanting, classic children’s story. Suitable for ages 4-6 years. Monday 14th and Tuesday 15th April 10.00 am – 1.00 pm Tel: 01432 340555 www.courtyard.org.uk

SPORTS D C LEISURE CENTRES A multitude of Junior Holiday Activities inc arts and crafts, soft play, organised sports, swimming etc for ages 2-7 and 8-13 yrs at Bewdley, Stourport and Wyre Forest Glades Kidderminster Leisure Centres. www.dcleisurecentres.co.uk FOOTBALL FIRST SOCCER SCHOOL, WORCESTER Football Holiday Club at RGS The Grange from Monday 14th - Thursday 17th April for boys and girls of all abilities 4-13 years. from 10am-3pm and early drop off from 8:55-9:55am. Tel: 07825 772031/07411 626527 or email football.first@yahoo.com www.footballfirst2002.com HALO LEISURE, HEREFORDSHIRE School Holiday activity clubs from snorkelling to swimming and fun games indoors and out in Bromyard, Hereford, Ledbury, Leominster and Ross on Wye. Tel: 0300 012 1222 www.haloleisure.co.uk MALVERN SPECIAL FAMILIES, MALVERN AND WORCESTER They provide holiday clubs in Worcester and Malvern for children and young people aged 5-19 years old. Running from 10.00am till 3pm, these include arts and crafts, sensory and messy play, soft play, music sessions, food activities, bikes/ trikes, sports, parachute games, bouncy castles, animal workshops, drumming workshops. Tel: 01684 892 526 or email malvernspecialfamilies@gmail.com www.malvernspecialfamilies.org.uk

PERSHORE TENNIS CENTRE, PERSHORE Indoor and outdoor tennis and multi-sport camps in Pershore for children from 5 years onwards over the Easter Holidays. Tel: 01386 556677 or email pershoretennis@hotmail.co.uk www.pershoretennis.co.uk SPORTS CHALLENGE, EVESHAM, PERSHORE AND DROITWICH LEISURE CENTRES Multi-sports camps for children aged 5 – 14 yrs.

Tuesday 14th – Thursday 17th and Tuesday 22nd – Friday 25th April. Tel: 01386 300726 or email info@sportschallenge.org.uk www.sportschallenge.org.uk UPTON WARREN, BROMSGROVE A variety of holiday activities for 8-15 year olds including sailing, kayaking, canoeing, archery.

Monday 14th – Thursday 17th, Tuesday 22nd – Friday 25th April 9.30 am – 4.00 pm Tel: 01527 861426 or email uwoecenquiries@worcestershire.gov.uk www.worcestershire.gov.uk/cms/outdoor-educationcentres/upton-warren-outdoor-centre.aspx

Check our website regularly as we are constantly updating it with lots of local news, things to do and information – please visit

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk and register – the site is taylor-made for you.

A unique combination of original poetry & illustrations for children or just the young at heart

By Penny Turner www.penny-turner.co.uk

Ideal for children’s rooms, nurseries or gifts – Fine art prints, greetings cards & gift ideas

ZIG ZAG COACHING, MALVERN AND WORCESTER A variety of holiday activities including multi-sports, football and goalkeeping for 5-14 year olds from Monday 14th – Thursday 17th, Tuesday 22nd – Friday 25th April 9.00 am – 3.00 pm at St. Johns and Nunnery Wood Sports Centres in Worcester and Sport Dyson Perrins in Malvern and Sport Martley in Martley.

Tel: 07510 990969 or email info@zigzagcoaching.co.uk www.zigzagcoaching.co.uk

We are planning to feature children’s summer holiday clubs/classes/workshops in Families Hereford and Worcester in the Jul/Aug issue. If you would like to advertise your activities in the magazine and reach 44,000 parents then please get in touch either by email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk or tel 01386 791422.

Earn extra money

Avon Representatives Required

IMMEDIATE START Contact Claire claire.finlinson123@btinternet.com 07981493439 March – April 2014

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

13 Hereford & Worcester

Clubs & Classes

Clubs & Classes Free maths and English activities – 15th April!

Explore Learning centres provide maths, English and 11+ tuition to 5-14 year olds of all abilities. Explore fits easily around family life; the centres are open 7 days a week, with children able to attend up to twice a week on a drop-in basis.

On the 15th April Explore will be hosting a Community Open Day! There will be free interactive maths and literacy workshops for 5 – 14 year olds across all the Explore Learning centres. Spaces are limited so call your local centre to reserve your place.

Call your local centre to book a free trial on 01527 910222 or visit www.explorelearning.co.uk.

Don’t forget to say you saw this class in Families Hereford and Worcester, your favourite, local, family-friendly magazine!

Big Dance Big Dance is the UK’s biggest celebration of all types of dance, for all ages and all levels of ability. Dancefest is the West Midlands lead organisation, working with colleagues from across the region to organise events for the Big Dance Pledge (16 May) and Big Dance Week (5-13 July).

Dancefest is currently working with lots of groups to create dance to be performed on Friday 16 May, when people all over the UK will be taking part in this year’s Big Dance Pledge. Some will be full performances, some will take place in school assemblies and during office lunch hours. Get in touch with clare@dancefest.co.uk if you’d like to get involved and you can also learn the moves online and join in at home or at work. www.dancefest.co.uk/big-dance.html

Newbridge Farm Park

Season Starts Sat 5th April

Open Mon-Sat during holidays Open Wed-Sat during term-time Closed Sundays

Ea ster Trea su re H un t w it h pr ize

• Easter Bottle Feeding • Egg Collecting • Tractor Rides • Pony Rides • Hands on Pet time • Indoor Play Barn • Outdoor Play and Picnic Areas • Zipwire • Trampolines (indoor and out)

www.newbridgefarmpark.com

01531 670 780 Little Marcle, Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG

14

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

Fun filled parties: Age 4-12’s: Football High energy dance Multi Games

Age 8-12’s: Roller disco Skates provided Music and Lights

All parties can be themed

01905 840396 or

email sales@kosport.co.uk www.kosport.co.uk March – April 2014

Clubs & Classes Peaceful Harmony – Reiki Healing

Sadly, ill health, distress and anxiety can affect us all at some stage in our lives. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that can also help promote healing.

I have known Diana Street for a couple of years now and she always radiates such kindness and compassion. Several years ago, after a bad fall, she experienced Reiki for herself. She was so impressed with it that she decided to study to become a fully trained Reiki Master and a Professional Counsellor.

I attended a group session at her home recently and was surprised to find how relaxed I felt afterwards.

She played some Tibetan temple music which was very relaxing, we closed our eyes and listened to the music and she went round the group in turn laying her hands very gently on each of us. She administers Reiki through the ‘laying on of hands’, which is based on the idea that an unseen ‘life force energy’ flows through us. This can be done with or without touch, depending on which you prefer.

This pretty much sums up how I felt too in the words of Sue Grant “Diana hosted a small group evening of reiki and meditation that was delightful, healing and very relaxing. She has great presence, and empathy with reiki therapy and the significant benefits for the group and individual. I would recommend Diana, particularly for anyone who might be nervous of trying reiki for the first time she will make you feel entirely comfortable”.

To experience this for yourselves then please get in touch with Diana. She offers individual sessions and group sessions on a Monday evening or on a Thursday morning for Mums.

Booking is essential.

For more testimonials and information, the proof is in the pudding so they say, then visit www.peacefulharmony.co.uk .

Diana also offers pet bereavement counselling and wellbeing counselling.

For more information call Diana on 01905 672180/07783 881066, email Diana@peacefulharmony.co.uk

March – April 2014

Roller Disco

Suitable for ages 8-12 • Roller skates provided • Wrist guards provided • Great selection of music • Marshalled skate Last Friday of every month – 4.30 to 6pm & 6.30 to 8pm At: Peopleton Village Hall, WR10 2EG Price: £5 per child, £2 for Skate hire (skates to be booked in advance) Tuition available Booking essential as limited spaces available Contact us via email sales@kosport.co.uk or 01905 840396

Farm Fun Sunday Sunday 6 April 2014 11.00am – 4.00pm n Encounter farmyard favourites such as baby goats, rabbits and chickens n Children’s craft activity n Farmyard songs and entertainments n Morris dancing n Includes entry into the Museum 0 ADULTS: £2.0 0 .0 £1 : N RE CHILD

Forge Mill Needle Museum Needlemill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY Tel: 01527 62509 Email: museum@bromsgroveandredditch.gov.uk

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

15 Hereford & Worcester

Viewpoint: 7 steps to a smarter child In the last issue of Families, we published an article entitled 7 steps to a smarter child, which caused some controversy. Unfortunately there was a separate box of references to underline the findings which was missed out for which we apologise. We have now amended the online copy and it can be found here: http://www.familiesonline.co.uk/Subjects/Articles/Seven-steps-to-a-smarter-child-Howto-boost-your-child-s-brain-power/(language)/eng-GB#.Ut0PHKU4m2w I appreciate that the article was in some part contentious, as indeed is often the case with many areas of parenting advice. I know that Families readers are intelligent and will make up their own minds about philosophies and practices that underpin their parenting, based on a variety of sources and personal/shared experiences. I print below excerpts of several responses I have received and believe that you can make your own decisions.

7 steps to a smarter child I am greatly concerned by some of the content from a professional angle predominantly ‘Ditch dental fluorides’, and to a lesser extent ‘Keep metal out of their mouths’.

The advice to families to ‘Choose toothpastes free of fluoride’ is highly damaging and goes completely against current professional advice.

Fluoridation of our drinking water, unfortunately only available in some areas of the UK, is the best public health measure to prevent dental disease in children’s, and ultimately, adult’s teeth, particularly within the communities that are at most risk from dental disease. I am uncertain if your readers would be aware that the overwhelming majority of Hereford and Worcestershire homes, do not have a fluoridated water supply.

The advice to totally reject amalgam fillings is a little misguided; all UK dentists will avoid placing amalgam in children’s teeth where possible, but the circumstances of an individual, along with the presenting clinical factors, often mean that amalgam is still, in that case, the best material for the job.

Prevention is better than cure, and the best way to prevent the need for silver fillings is the daily safe use of fluoride along with sensible consumption of sweet foods and drinks.

I strongly feel that advice such as this, should not go out in an otherwise, nurturing and community spirited publication.

Dr Tara Steward – Dental Officer As a parent in Worcestershire, we receive a regular copy of “Families”, which we generally value as a source of useful information.

Thousands of families in Hereford and Worcestershire read your publication and rely on it as a source of factual information. However, this article presents as scientific “fact”, a number of hypotheses which are either unproven or indeed disproven.

There is NO scientifically accepted evidence that mobile phones damage brain development, that aspartame or MSG “disrupt brain pathways”, that wheat causes “over-activation of nerve cell receptors” nor that “phytates interfere with vital minerals”. Your guidance on limiting junk food and fizzy drinks is, at least, correct. The Department of Health offers clear advice on when and how to switch children from full-fat to semi-skimmed milk; the answer is “after the age of two”, provided that they are healthy and growing well.

Professor Robin May – Lister Fellow & Professor in Infectious Diseases Just remembered that I wanted to email you as I am impressed that you put that WTDDTY article in about child nutrition. It’s exactly my ethics and it’s great to see that in print!

Jackie Tarling – Personal Trainer

As a local GP I read with alarm some of the information given as fact and I can happily confirm that no self respecting Doctor would give you this information! Most of what was written was unsupported by any credible research or medical data. Thank goodness, because as a parent of two children myself I was certainly concerned! Before reaching out to snatch the fork from my child’s mouth lest she should develop developmental and behavioural problems, and prior to ordering the under sink filtration system to filter the heavy metals from my water supply, I took the time to consider whether I would ever impart such information to my patients.

As a practising Doctor I am expected to carry out evidence based medicine. This means that I make decisions in my surgery about what medicine should be given or what advice I should offer based on the research data available to me. There are many things to consider when looking at research trials. For example would you be happy to accept a trial funded by the drug company who stand to gain from sales of the medicine being tested? The ideal trial is placebo controlled. In other words a fake drug is given to compare results with. The population tested should also be large enough to ensure that the results are not just due to chance. These are just a few of the factors to consider before saying that the research data is accurate in its findings. The most reputable medical journals will also ask independent scientists to scrutinize the trial methods before they publish them. All of this ensures that as Doctors we can offer you the correct information to help you to make informed decisions about your choices. I mention this because some of the research data from this original article was published in obscure journals and many of the trials lacked either the basic research methodology required to make the results carry any weight or were biased in some way. That is not to say that research is not ongoing in some of these areas.

It saddened me that there were a few reasonable points in the article which were overshadowed by the less reliable claims. Please do feed your children fish regularly, particularly salmon which has high levels of omega 3, and do give them lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. Absolutely limit crisps and sweets, biscuits and processed meats, and avoid fizzy drinks where possible as they are indeed full of sugar and sweeteners, and are certainly not suitable for younger children. It was suggested in the article that children be “chucked outside” as much as possible which is a sentiment that I would agree with! As regards increasing our uptake of Vitamin D from the sun’s rays, we probably are overdoing the sunscreen, but do use your common sense, as even 10 minutes sunscreen free on a very hot day can lead to sunburn and the potential for skin damage. The Department of Health have issued guidance on Vitamin D supplementation in children under 5 years www.nhs.uk along with lots of other useful information relating to health and diet.

Of course we would all like our children to be smart but I suspect the truth is that “smartness” is a combination of factors, from the genes we are born with to the diet we are given, and the environment we grow up in. I would far rather we all focused on spending time with our children, reading to them , playing games together , feeding them nutritious food, talking at the dinner table , and helping to stimulate their interests whatever they may be rather than worrying about unsubstantiated threats to their health. But that’s just my opinion….

Dr Gill Farmer – GP

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Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

March – April 2014

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.

Happy Easter THEATRE Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk Swan Lake – Vienna Festival Ballet One of the best known love stories, performed by the ever popular Vienna Festival Ballet. Sunday 16th March 2.00 and 5.00 pm £19.00, £14.50 (under 16s) Aliens love underpants This zany and hilarious tale based on the bestselling children’s book is wonderfully brought to life on stage for the very first time. Monday 21st April 1.30 and 3.30 pm and Tuesday 22nd April 11.00 am and 2.00 pm £12.50, £46.00 family ticket Evesham Arts Centre Theatre, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 4QH 01386 48883, www.eveshamartscentre.co.uk Ballet Cinderella – Vienna Festival Ballet A new version of Cinderella with a combination of pure classical dancing and a touch of pantomime.

Monday 21st April 5.00 pm £19.00 adult £13.00 child

March – April 2014

Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre. freeserve.co.uk Children’s Theatre: Short plays for Children. Highly Entertaining for kids of all ages.

Saturday 15th March and Saturday 19th April 2.30 and 4.00 pm £1.50 Heroes and Villains Encore Theatre Academy present a revue celebrating the best of musical theatre classic heroes and villains. Saturday 29th March 2.00 pm £5.00 Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org.uk

Visit www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk for more family-related things to do and places to see over the Easter period in the Hereford and Worcester area.

We are now pleased to be working in conjunction with thebestof Worcester and thebestof Droitwich. If you would like your events included on their websites then simply complete a short simple registration process and you can add as many events as you like.

Just go to www.thebestof.co.uk/worcester and www.thebestof.co.uk/droitwich.

Times of their lives (Cropthorne with Charlton School) Wednesday 2nd April 1.30 pm and Thursday 3rd April 7.00 pm £7.00, £4.00 (16 and under) Hugless Douglas A delightful family show which comes to life with an irresistible blend of music, puppetry and high-energy storytelling. Tuesday 15th April 2.30 pm £8.50, £7.00 (under 16)

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

17 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk

The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk

Webbs, Worcester Road, Wychbold, Droitwich Spa, WR9 0DG 01527 860000, www.webbsdirect.co.uk

Odyssey 2 Take a voyage with Aim High Theatre on the merry-go-round of the senses. Stop along the way to taste the circus of imagination and the backyard of discovery. Destination unknown. Aim High are a group of young performers with learning disabilities.

Saturday 29th March 7.45 pm £4.25

Princess Tania and the wicked witch Mayhem ensues when Princess Tania loses a magic ring, which is supposed to protect her from the Wicked Witch.

Saturday 5th April 10.30, 11.45 am £2.50

Story Time Storyteller Nicky brings to life a host of fun tales for children every Tuesday in the Restaurant children’s play corner. 9.30 am – 9.50 am and 10 am – 10.20 am. Ideal for children aged 2 – 7 years.

Poetry Slam This live final is the culmination of a poetry slam project involving Middle Schools from Worcestershire, which has seen young people trying to find out “who has the X Factor” … but in a poetic kind of way. Thursday 3rd April 7.00 pm £6.75, £4.75 Professor Pepperpot – Balloontastic Magic Show Professor Pepperpot brings his unique style of magic mayhem and balloons to the Palace Theatre.

Saturday 12th April 12.15 pm for 3-5 year olds and 1.30 pm for 6-9 year olds Postman Pat Live – It’s Showtime A brand new, fun-filled, all action show featuring everyone’s favourite postman. Monday 14th April 1.00 and 3.30 pm £13.25, £11.25 and £45.00 family ticket The Little Mermaid – Ballet Theatre UK Join Ballet Theatre UK on this dramatic re-telling of Hans Christian Anderson’s all-time favourite story of the Little Mermaid, who falls in love with a human prince and gives up everything to win his love. Tuesday 15th April 7.30 pm £17.75, £16.75, £12.75 (child) The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Tomten When all is quiet on the farm, when everyone is asleep, when the snow covers the ground and stars twinkle in the frosty sky – that’s when Tomten wakes up. Saturday 22nd March 2.30 pm £8.00, £7.00 The Frog & The Princess The Frog & The Princess is a poignant re-telling of the Brothers Grimm tale that will entertain and delight family audiences. A puppet show for ages 4-8 years. Sunday 6th April 2.30 pm £8.00, £7.00 Bananas in Pyjamas It’s party time in Cuddlestown but wait…the guest of honour has gone missing. It’s a Banana Emergency! Come and help the Banana Detectives solve the case. Friday 18th April 1.00 and 3.30 pm £13.00, £11.00 (under 16s)

GARDEN CENTRES Evesham Country Park, Evesham, WR11 4TP 01386 41661, www.eveshamcountrypark.co.uk Spring Bunanza Do something eggciting and eggstraordinary with your family this Easter between 11am - 4pm! Easter themed activities until Monday 21st April and then paper mache painting. Monday 14th - Friday 25th April. 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Hereford (Wyevale) Garden Centre, Kings Acre Road, Hereford, HR4 0SE 0844 288 5021, www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk Wags & Wellies Sponsored Dog Walk A fun-filled day for all the family – and the dog!

Starting and finishing at Hereford Wyevale Garden Centre, you’ll take part in a 5km dog walk, stopping along the way for refreshments at Breinton Village Hall. Once you’ve completed the walk, you’ll receive a doggy treat, a blue St. Michael’s Hospice dog tag, and a cosy spot to relax and enjoy the entertainment to follow. From dog tricks and skills to a bouncy castle and orienteering game for the kids, you’re guaranteed to have a great time. Sunday 9th March 10.00 am £7.00 adult, £5.00 child Littleheath Garden Centre, Littleheath Lane, Lickey End, Bromsgrove, B60 1HY 01527 878174 0r 832728, www.littleheathgardencentre.co.uk Come and see the Spring Lambs Entrance FREE. Easter Egg Trail, find clues and win a free Easter Egg (Saturday only). Face painting and appearances from Peppa Pig. Saturday 19th and Monday 21st April Children’s Activities: Spring lambs, birds of prey, bouncy castles, face painting, competitions and lots more. Sunday 20th April

Young Enterprise Trade Show Local students aged 15-19 have been busy producing products/services and this is their first opportunity to sell to the public.

Saturday 8th March 10.00 am-4.00 pm Make a Gift for Mothers Day Fun, hands on activity where children decorate a pot with a selection of craft items and put a bright houseplant in it as a lovely gift for mum. Saturday 29th March 10.00 am – 5.00 pm £4.99 includes all materials Funtastic Fantasy Face Painting Children can become anything or anyone they want, from fairies, to animals to superheroes! Saturday 29th March 11.00 am-5.00 pm £3.00 per child Easter Riverside Ramble Children can follow a fun trail around the Riverside Gardens and all correct entries will go into a draw to win a prize. Saturday 12th – Sunday 27th April 10.00 am – 5.00 pm Free.

MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Avoncroft through the ages Roman, Viking, Tudor and Victorian re-enactors will be spending the weekend living in and around Avoncroft’s historic buildings.

Saturday 15th - Sunday 16th March Mother’s Day Free Museum entry for Mums.

Sunday 30th March Easter Holiday Fun: Circus Skills Children’s activities, crafts and games. Pre-booking recommended.

Tuesday 15th – Thursday 17th April 11.00 am – 3.00 pm Mad Hatter’s Family Fun Weekend Fun for all the family with historical demonstrations, traditional crafts and activities with a Wonderland theme. Windmill sailing.

Sunday 20th and Monday 21st April Easter Holiday Fun: Magic and Trickery Children’s activities, crafts, balloon modelling and games. Timed sessions with a professional magician.

Pre-booking recommended.

Tuesday 22nd – Thursday 24th April 11.00 am – 3.00 pm Almonry Heritage Centre, Abbey Gate, Evesham, WR11 4BG 01386 446944, www.almonryevesham.org The theme is ‘Mapping the Past’ with a Medieval Map Makers Trail around the museum along with some puzzles and an Easter craft activity -make your own Easter Hat. Saturday 12th – Sunday 27th April Children under 11 Free. Craft and trail packs £1.00.

Commandery, 109 Sidbury, Worcester, WR1 2HU 01905 361821, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk Easter at the Commandery Enjoy a week of Easter craft and a week of Alice in Wonderland activities.

Saturday 12th – Saturday 27th April 11.00 am – 1.00 pm and 2.00 – 4.00 pm £2.00 Mad Hatter’s Tea Party Monday 21st April

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Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

March – April 2014

What’s On Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY 01527 62509, www.forgemill.org.uk Farm Fun Day Enjoy all the fun of the farm including: Encounter animals such as sheep, goats, a calf, rabbits, chickens, Children’s craft activity, farmyard song and performance. Sunday 6th April 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Adults £2.00, children £1.00, Family ticket £5.00 Have a go archery Learn the basics of this ancient sport by having a go under the supervision of Midland Adventure. Wednesday 16th – Thursday 24th April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 The Elgar Birthplace Museum, Crown East Lane, Lower Broadheath, Worcester, WR2 6RH 01905 333224, www.elgarmuseum.org The Wand of Youth Explore the Museum as Fairy Pipers or Giants on the exciting children’s trail.

Discover life as a Victorian child and play fun, traditional garden games. Tuesday 1st April – Sunday 4th May Learn about Victorian Toys and Games and make your own to take home. Wednesday 16th April Come along to the magical Puppet Workshops to create wonderful puppets inspired by the mystical creatures in Elgar’s music. Booking advised.

Thursday 24th April 11.00 am- 4.30 pm.

All Activities are free with standard Museum admission.

Don’t forget to mention when you telephone that you saw the listings in Families Hereford and Worcester magazine

March – April 2014

Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum, Foregate Street, Worcester, WR1 1DT 01905 25371, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk Barbarians: The Age of Iron A new exhibition plus Easter holiday workshops. Suitable for children aged 5-12 years. 11.00 am – 1.00 pm booking essential £4.50 per child Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk Mothers Day All Mum’s admitted free. Sunday 30th March 11.00 am – 5.00 pm All creatures great and small – Holiday Activities Come and meet a variety of scaly, feathered and furry friends, including fantastic displays of falconry! Monday 21st April 11.00 am - 5.00 pm Fun craft activities with an animal theme, plus have-a-go archery on Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

Tuesday 15th - Thursday 17th & Tuesday 22nd Friday 25th April, 10.30 am-4.00 pm £1.00 per child

ATTRACTIONS All Things Wild, Station Road, Honeybourne, Evesham, Worcs, WR11 7QZ 01386 833083, www.allthingswild.co.uk Eggstremely Wild Easter Trails, competitions, activities, indoor and outdoor play areas, go karts, tractors, animal encounters, egg collecting, dinosaurs, Easter egg hunts and more. Saturday 5th – Sunday 27th April

Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1RL 01531 633160, www.eastnorcastle.com Easter Hunt for Heroes 2014 marks the centenary anniversary of the First World War and to commemorate the heroes, you can take part in the Hunt for Heroes. Search for the brave bunnies around the castle and grounds, solve the clues and you may be a lucky winner of a giant chocolate egg! Everyone who joins in the fun will receive an Easter treat.

Friday 18th – Monday 21st April 11.00 am – 4.30 pm £10.00, £6.50 child, £26.50 family ticket Jinney Ring Craft Centre, Hanbury Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, Worcs, B60 4BU 01527 821272, www.jinneyring.co.uk Pottery Making Activities Children can make ‘Fabulous Fish’ on Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the holiday period – check website for details Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW 01684 584900, www.threecounties.co.uk Countrytastic Keep the children entertained all day long with free activities, entertainment, animals and much, more. Countrytastic has plenty of indoor and outdoor fun and action for all the family! Thursday 17th April 10.00 am – 5.00 pm (under 3s free) Newbridge Farm Park, Little Marcle, Nr Ledbury, HR8 2QG 01531 760780, www.newbridgefarmpark.co.uk Easter Treasure Hunt with prize Easter bottle feeding, egg collecting, tractor rides, pony rides, hands on pet times, indoor play barn, outdoor play and picnic areas, zipwire, trampolines.

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

19 Hereford & Worcester

What’s On Top Barn Farm Park, Holt Heath, Worcester, WR6 6NH 01905 621954, www.topbarn.co.uk Easter Eggstravaganza Easter bunny trailer tours, chick and bunny handling, pig racing, goat feeding.

Saturday 12th – Saturday 26th April

EVENTS NCT – National Childbirth Trust 0300 3300770 www.nct.org.uk NEARLY NEW SALES Malvern NCT Saturday 5th April 10.30 am – 12.00 midday at Malvern St James The Dome, Imperial Road, Off Barnard’s Green Road, Great Malvern, WR14 3BA Tel: 0844 243 6201 or email: nns.malvern@nct.org.uk Redditch NCT Saturday 29th March 11.30 am – 1.00 pm at Woodfield Academy, Studley Road, Redditch B98 7HH Tel: 0844 243 6248 or email: nnsredditchnct@yahoo.co.uk Vale of Evesham NCT Saturday 5th April 10.15 am – 12.00 midday at Prince Henry’s High School, Victoria Avenue, Evesham, WR11 4QH Tel: 0844 243 6308 or email: valeofeveshamnns@yahoo.com

NATIONAL TRUST 0844 800 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk Berrington Hall, nr Leominster, HR6 0DW Tel: 01568 615721

MYTH, LEGEND AND FOLKLORE Learn all about uses of plants in folklore, natural healing herbs and other local parkland myth legend and folklore. A weekend of walks, talks, displays, games, books and legend trails. Saturday 26th – Sunday 27th April 11.00 am – 4.00 pm Croome Park, Croome D’Abitot, WR8 9DW Tel: 01905 371006 CADBURY EASTER EGGVENTURE TRAIL (OUTDOORS) Find Croome’s Eggheads around the park for a Cadbury Egghead prize. Saturday 12th – Sunday 27th April 10.00 am – 5.30 pm EASTER TRAIL (INDOORS) How many eggs can you find around the Court? Collect your trail from the Court and join in the fun. Free trail, prize not included.

Friday 11th – Monday 21st April 11.00 am – 4.30 pm EASTER EGG NEST FUN For little kids and big kids, why not have a go at making your own Easter Egg Nest to eat? Collect your kit from the RAF Canteen.

Friday 18th – Monday 21st April 10.00 am – 5.30 pm £0.50 per item Hanbury Hall, School Road, Hanbury, Droitwich, WR9 7EA Tel: 01527 821214 MOTHERING WEEKEND WITH LADY GEORGINA Go back in time to the year 1890 and meet Sir Harry and Lady Georgina and their family as they celebrate mothers. Saturday 29th – Sunday 30th March 1.00 – 4.30 pm

FAMILY ACTIVITY TRAILS – MINI MAMMALS Follow the themed trail around the garden and collect your prize, then enjoy ‘make and take’ activities. Trail only available from Visitor Reception on Monday and Wednesday. Monday 14th – Thursday 17th April 10.30 am – 4.30 pm EASTER WEEKEND Enjoy trails and ‘make and take’ craft activities and collect your chocolate reward, sponsored by Cadbury’s. Friday 18th – Monday 21st April 10.30 am – 4.00 pm FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS – KITE CHAOS Follow the themed trail around the garden and collect your prize, then enjoy ‘make and take’ activities. Trail only available from Visitor Reception on Wednesday and Friday. Tuesday 22nd – Friday 25th April 10.30 am – 4.30 pm Snowshill Manor, Snowshill, Near Broadway, Worcs, WR12 7JU Tel: 01386 842814 CADBURY EASTER EGG TRAILS Explore Snowshill’s paths and grounds and find the hidden clues to claim your Cadbury’s chocolate Egghead prize! Friday 18 – Monday 21st April 11.00 am – 5.00 pm £2.00 per item

CHARITY EVENTS Wear a Hat Day for brain tumour research Tel 01296 733011. www.wearahatday.org Visit the website and register. Then you will be sent a fundraising pack to help promote your event.

SPRING GARDEN TRAIL Discover the hidden clues around the gardens at Berrington, answer all of the questions to collect your prize. Saturday 12th Monday 21st April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per trail CADBURY’S EASTER EGG TRAILS Eggsplore the world of eggs with an Easter trail. Bring along the family to find out about different eggs and the creatures that produce them. Follow the clues, answer the questions and win your Cadbury chocolate Egghead. Friday 18th – Monday 21st April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per item Clent Hills, Nimmings Wood car park, between Hagley and Stourbridge, B62 0NL Tel: 01562 712822 EASTER EGGSTRAVANGZA Spring into action and search for Easter Eggs on the Little Chicks Trail (for the under 5s), or the more challenging Eggsplorer Trail and see if you can find the Easter Bunny in the woodland home. Sunday 20th – Monday 21st April 10.00 am – 3.00 pm £2.00 child Croft Castle, Yarpole, nr Leominster, HR6 9PW Tel: 01568 780246 CADBURY’S EASTER EGG TRAILS Become a Cadburys Eggsplorer and follow the trail of dungeons and destruction left behind by Glendower the dragon.

Find Glendower and collect a Cadburys chocolate egghead at the end. Friday 18th – Monday 21st April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per item HERE BE DRAGONS Follow the trail of dungeons and destruction left behind by Glendower the dragon.

Find out where he is and how to catch him with the top tips for Dragoneers trail. Dragon mythology fun for families. Saturday 12th – Sunday 27th April 10.00 am – 4.00 pm £2.00 per trail If you would like to feature in the What’s On Section, please email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk 20

Hereford & Worcester

www.familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk

March – April 2014

©National Trust