Families Hereford & Worcester May/June 2017 issue 45

Hereford & Worcester

Education

Issue 45 May/June 2017 FREE www.familiesonline.co.uk

. Clubs and Classes . Children’s Parties .

What’s On

Really useful information for parents of 0-12 year olds in Hereford & Worcester

Editor’s Letter Dear readers Springtime! And soon it will be Summer... The march of the seasons creates a rhythm for our busy lives, a kind of regular routine of annual events that runs from New Year through half term to Easter, via the bank holidays to Summer and then into the busy Autumn term and the run-up to Christmas.

Routine is important for all of us in managing our busy lives. But it is especially important for children - as we find out in two features in this issue. Establishing a regular routine for homework is a key part of helping your child to learn. While fixing and keeping a regular bedtime is vital to ensuring that kids get enough sleep.

Next issue: Find out more inside!

July/August Diane Clifford.

Booking deadline: Editor, Friday 9 June

Discount With Super Camps Super Camps is offering 15% discount if you quote FAMILIES17 when booking in to one of their activities or courses during the school holidays.

Super Camps run daily and weekly activity camps which allow children to get the most out of their holiday time. Programmes are filled with fun activities that will keep your children entertained and have an 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating giving children the best possible care. Prices start from £38 per day. www.supercamps.co.uk

All The Fun Of The Fair

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To find out more call 01684 770566 or email editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk Circulation: 22,000 copies of Families Hereford & 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.

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All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hereford & Worcester are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.’ Print: The Manson Group, Reynolds House, 8 Porters Wood, Valley Road Industrial Estate, St Albans. AL3 6PZ. Tel: 01727 848 440.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

Reach 44,000 local readers.

Contact Diane on 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in

Families Hereford & Worcester Magazine

Run away to the circus at Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, on Bank Holiday Monday 29 May (11am – 4pm). Try your hand at circus skills including juggling, spinning plates and stilt walking with our circus professional Steve Kaos. Children can also enjoy making a paper tiger and designing their own clown mask. Other fun and games will be happening throughout the day including an explorer trail around the museum where you can discover over 1000 years of history. The fun continues from Tuesday 30 May Thursday 1 June when children will be able to take part in fun Circus themed craft activities (10.30am – 4pm). All week James Kitchen will be providing lunches, snacks and tasty treats too. Family entry is just £13 (Tues-Thurs activities are an extra £2 per child). For more details call 01299 250416 or visit www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk

Put Your Best Foot Forward Walk to School Week is 15 - 19 May. Join thousands of children across the country celebrating the benefits walking brings. We know that walking to school makes children feel healthier and happier, while reducing congestion and pollution outside the school gates. Yet less than half of primary school children currently walk to school. Living Streets, who organise the annual event want to reverse this decline and see every child that can, walk to school. For more information or to order a challenge pack see: www.livingstreets.org.uk/what-we-do/projects/walk-toschool-week

To advertise call: 01684 770566

May - June 2017

News & Views Dinosaur Mad Dinosaur mad youngsters will love the Step Through Time Dinosaur Experience at All Things Wild! near Evesham.

Visitors can explore all about when these dinosaurs existed and get up close to the ever popular Tyrannosaurus Rex, Stegosaurus and Triceratops that remain ‘Frozen in time’.

Photo credit: mcphersonstevens.com

Cheltenham Science Festival is on 6-11 June. A six-day extravaganza with over 200 events celebrating science and the arts. Free interactive zones for families with lots of hands-on activities on site and on the streets of Cheltenham will keep the kids occupied for hours.Tickets from £6. www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/science

New App To Offer Counselling For Kids

Adults and children can also ride the dino land train and learn lots in the educational dino barn too!

Other attractions include animal encounters, a new soft play barn, go karts, plus much more! For more information see: www.allthingswild.co.uk

The NSPCC’s Childline service has just launched a new iPhone app to provide counselling for kids directly through their mobile phones. The ‘For Me’ app allows kids to access Childline’s online services, including 1-2-1 live chats with a counsellor, the ‘Ask Sam’ problem pages and entrance to their private ‘lockers’ – areas where they can write down their own personal thoughts and track their moods. It was invented by four teenagers who wanted to use technology to address the urgent need for support among young people. The App is free to download via iTunes and is designed for discreet usage. Read more at www.childline.org.uk

The Baby Show Returns To Birmingham The Baby Show with MadeForMums, the UK’s leading pregnancy and parenting event will be returning to the NEC in Birmingham next month from 19 to 21May. The show is a great way to get hands-on with products and try before you buy. There will be over 200 exhibitors showcasing an array of baby essentials, including leading names such as Mothercare, Babies R Us, iCandy, Nuby, Baby Björn, Britax and Chiccos well as independent brands that you won’t find on the high street. Don’t miss the UK’s top baby experts sharing their top tips on birthing, breastfeeding and sleep.

It’s a family friendly day out with free nappies at the Aldi Mamia Changing Area and free food in the Tommee Tippee Feeding Area. There’s also entertainment for the little ones at the Drive & Go with Peg Perego Area!

Families Hereford & Worcester have teamed up with The Baby Show to offer readers a discount of 40% off - £11.95 (FRI)/£12.95 (SAT/SUN).

Input the code FAMILIES2017 when buying tickets at www.thebabyshow.co.uk May - June 2017

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

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Education

Does Your Child Need A Tutor?

Children are expected to find their school work challenging, as this drives them forward and helps them to learn. However, if the challenge is too great and the obstacles to learning seem too high, it can leave a child feeling demoralised and disinterested, and might even result in them falling behind their classmates. The same can happen when a child finds their work is not challenging enough - the lessons can become boring and the child can slip behind through a lack of effort. If you suspect that your child is having problems with school work for any reason, you might be wondering whether extra tuition and support could help.

Understanding when your child may need a tutor Sometimes it can be easy to tell when tuition might help. If your child has a natural aptitude for a certain subject and performs above their expected level, they might enjoy being challenged by a private tutor who can concentrate on their own abilities.

Similarly, if you know your child has particular educational needs, you may want to address those needs with added support from a personal tutor.

However, it can sometimes be a little harder to tell when tuition would be of benefit to your child - especially if they seem to have coped well with schoolwork up until this point.

Some children can become quiet and withdrawn, others can get elusive and defensive, and problems at school can even lead to disruptive and aggressive behaviour.

Signs that your child may be having problems with their schoolwork: 1. A sustained fall in grades or performance.

2. Not talking about school and hiding report cards.

3. Anxiety and/or behavioural problems at home and at school. who is losing interest in their lessons, or who is hoping for 4. Trying to avoid going to school or doing homework. extra challenges to push them forward in their skills.

5. Showing a lack of interest in school or seeming bored.

Once you have established a support network for your child This is not an exhaustive list: every child is different, and you within the school, consider if a tutor would suit you and your know your own child's patterns and behaviours better than family. Private tuition is not as expensive as you might think, and anyone. If you spot a change in your child and suspect school it is proven to help children who typically struggle in a lessons are the problem, try sitting them down and asking them classroom environment to get back on track with their lessons. to open up about their difficulties.

Your child may just need tuition in one or two subjects, or it could be the whole curriculum that they are having a struggle Has your little one spent long periods of time out of school, with. Either way, you should look for an experienced and due to an illness or other reason? Returning to the classroom qualified teacher who has plenty of references - and who also can be daunting. Even just a few weeks out of lessons can leave has been through the DBS check process. a child struggling to catch up. If your child has missed school, they might benefit from extra tuition for a short while.

You may want to find a tutor who will offer a free trial lesson for your child. Sometimes students and tutors click, and other Choosing the right tutor for your child times they do not. Your child may respond better to a particular If you have identified that your child has special educational teaching style, while others may simply learn better from needs or if you suspect that this may be the case, enlist the someone they are comfortable with. support of your child's school and see if anything can be done to help them during lessons. Ask at the school and discover If your child is not happy with their tutor, listen to their reasons who the Special Educational Needs Coordinator is - they can why - and involve them in the selection process at all times. The offer support, advice and even arrange for one-to-one happier your child is about the learning environment, the easier classroom support, if it would benefit your child. The school will it will be to teach them and to get a positive response from also be able to help if you have concerns about a gifted child them.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

May - June 2017

Education King’s St Alban’s - A Good Decision Set in the heart of Worcester, King’s St Alban’s caters for children aged 4 to 11, with a purpose-built Pre-Preparatory Department (4 – 7) combining bright airy classrooms, a multipurpose hall, library and a delightful outdoor garden.

At King’s St Alban’s we recognise that the early years of any child’s life are important as they lay the foundations which contribute to the person each child will become. We believe that happy children learn best, and work hard to ensure that the foundations for learning are based upon happiness, confidence and an eagerness to learn.

We nurture the potential of every child in classes which are small enough to ensure consistent attention, but large enough to allow friendships to blossom and competition to remain healthy. With wrap-around care from 8.00am until 6.00pm each day included in the fees, the benefits of a King’s education go even further.

For children considering a move to Years 3 to 6 in September we are holding a science and art based activity morning at 10.00am on 20 May. Places are limited so please call our Registrar, Mrs Louise Robins, on 01905 354906 or email: lrobins@ksw.org.uk to book a place.

Abberley Hall’s Magical Setting Abberley Hall School is holding its Summer Open Day on Saturday 20 May at 10.30am and will include coffee and welcome from its Headmaster, Will Lockett, in the Front Hall followed by individual guided tours of the Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School and facilities by some of our current pupils.

Lunch will be served on the South Terrace at midday. This is a family morning and a great opportunity to have a good look around Abberley Hall and chat to staff and pupils.

Abberley Hall School is a co-educational day and boarding school for children aged 2 to 13. Set in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside, it stands in about 90 acres. This remarkable setting allows for a real sense of freedom and children spend a great deal of time outdoors, whether in Forest School, playing Games or taking part in activities.

Where learning goes hand in hand with discovery Worcester, WR6 6DD T: 01299 896275 abberleyhall.co.uk

Co-education Boarding & Day Prep School for 2-13 year olds, based in 90 acres of Worcestershire countryside. Two hours from London, an hour from the Cotswolds and Birmingham Airport.

Small class sizes, high quality classroom teaching and committed pastoral care ensure that at Abberley the teachers really know and understand the children as individuals.

To book your place at the open day please email victoria.beswick@abberleyhall.co.uk www.abberleyhall.co.uk

May - June 2017

Open Morning Saturday 20 May

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

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Education

Ed’s Reading Room

Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere! I’m Ed and here is my early Summer book selection for you to enjoy.

Have fun reading! www.EdontheWeb.com

FOR AGES 5-7 YEARS

Cowboy Pug: The Dog Who Rode for Glory by Laura James

(Bloomsbury £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘‘Pug and Lady Miranda are saddled up ready for an exciting adventure. There are plenty of fun things in store for them like the county fair and candyfloss but they also have to deal with the runaway train, a water jump and even bandits. When Lady Miranda gets into trouble will she be able to smooth things over with the police officer and will Pug be able to earn his spurs?’

Evie’s Magic Bracelet: The Silver Unicorn by Jessica Ennis-Hill (Hodder £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘Evie is settling into her new home.

The day she starts her new school, she receives a gift from Grandma Iris in Jamaica – a beautiful bracelet with a message. ‘Have a magical time!’ Evie is amazed when she understands what the seagulls and the animals at the city farm are saying. She gradually realises this all started when she put on the bracelet from Grandma Iris.’

EducationInvestor

Awards 2016

FOR AGES 7 YEARS PLUS B for ring a f this ree Gu adver ide t bo ok

All The Fun of the Circus Bank Holiday Monday 29 May, 11am-4pm Try your hand at circus skills including juggling, spinning plates and stilt walking, make a paper tiger and design a clown mask.

Tuesday 30 May - Thursday 1 June, 10.30am-4pm Circus themed craft activities and an explorer trail.

FM

Jinks & O’Hare: Funfair Repair by Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre

(Oxford £8.99) ED SAYS: ‘Jinks and O’Hare are the repair team at Funfair Moon that boasts the highest helter-skelter and the scariest ghost train in the universe. Emily loves helping them and as her school, the Learny-Go-Round, is open only every other day she has plenty of time. But when the Funfair Inspector arrives everything seems to go wrong and chaos ensues. It seems someone is sabotaging the funfair. Will the whole fair spin out of control and be shut down? Or will Emily’s dream of becoming a funfair repairer come true?’

The Jamie Drake Equation by Christopher Edge (Nosy Crow £6.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Imagine your father was an astronaut! It would be so exciting especially when he is orbiting the Earth in the International Space Station. Jamie’s dad is an astronaut and, although at first he thinks it’s really cool that his father will be doing a spacewalk, he is actually just missing him being at home. When parts of the family solar system start to shake, Jamie becomes very worried. And when Jamie picks up a strange signal on his mobile, things start to get really complicated.’

Family entry ticket just £13 Please call 01299 250416 for further information County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Nr. Kidderminster, DY11 7XZ

www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk

6 Mar2017 Advert_NEW Versions copy.indd 5 Circus Families Hereford & Worcester

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 24/04/2017 17:05

May - June 2017

Every Day Has A Happy Ending

Education

RGS Worcester’s two Prep Schools (RGS The Grange and RGS Springfield) offer outstanding education for children from the age of 2 to 11 years, before going onto RGS Worcester until the age of 18. First class care and individual attention gives every child a happy and stimulating foundation in their journey within the RGS Worcester family.

The first precious few years of a young child’s life are an exciting time of development, exploration, learning and fun.

Both RGS Prep Schools allow children to be curious, explore, and ask questions, tackle problems, experiment and play.

Ofsted and ISI have consistently rated the schools as ‘Outstanding’, which highlight the critical role that the staff play to achieve the best possible outcomes for each child.

Children benefit from specialist teaching in PE, Music and IT and are nurtured to develop both confidence and skills.

RGS The Grange has the motto “From Little Acorns to Great Oaks” and sits within 50 acres of land just north of Worcester City Centre with numerous ancient oak trees throughout the grounds. Happy children make excellent learners and a child’s experiences in their Early Years forms the foundation for future learning.

The Early Years programme at RGS Springfield provides

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b u l C

May Half Term 30 May - 2 June Shrimps 2-3 YEARS, Snappers 4-7 YEARS, SHARKS 7-13 YEARS Booking Information May - June 2017

www.rgsw.org.uk 01905 451205 holidayclub@rgs w.org.uk

children with a magical first experience of school. The passionate and highly dedicated team believe that the capabilities of young children should never be underestimated and provide a supportive, nurturing and purposeful environment.

At RGS we know that through a combination of play-based learning, careful nurturing and personalised teaching, children really are given the best possible start to their school lives.

Opening from 8.00am to 6.00pm, we provide wrap around care as well as offering a vast variety of clubs and societies to develop a holistic philosophy. We welcome the opportunity to show you our schools. For more information on open mornings go to: www.rgsw.org.uk

Prep School

Open Mornings

RGS Springfield 6 May 2017 9.00am - 12.00noon RGS The Grange 13 May 2017 9.30am - 12.30pm

RGS The Grange, Claines, Worcester, Worcestershire. WR3 7RR

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

Independent Family of Schools Boys and Girls aged 2 - 18 years

www.rgsw.org.uk

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Health

The Importance Of Sleep As adults, we are more than aware of how important a good night's sleep is - we need it for balance, mood stability and to enhance brain function. And anyone who has children will concur that getting a full night's sleep is essential to combat temper tantrums and tiredness.

Experts from the NHS think that as much as we should prioritise healthy eating and exercise, we should also be ensuring children get nine hours of solid sleep nightly.

Particularly when they are young and acquiring knowledge on everything as they begin to shape and understand the world around them, children need a requisite amount of sleep to boost retaining information and help embed knowledge.

Ultimately, our brains need rest overnight to allow us to absorb information and this is even more important for young minds.

young children than teenagers, who know how to fight back!

Laying the right foundations when they are young, and encouraging them to see sleep as a part of healthy living should make maintaining it, even when they have discovered the joys of socialising, much more straightforward.

Routine, routine, routine Whilst they try to convince themselves and their parents otherwise, children thrive on routine, and our brains learn when to start shutting down and getting the all-important rest they need. Trying as best you can to instil a routine of preparing for and going to bed at the same time every night will help your child, no matter what age they are. This includes brushing teeth and getting pyjamas on at a certain time, which starts to surreptitiously prepare the brain for its rest period.

Limit the technology For many people the evening routine relies on technology, be it smartphones, tablets or television, to unwind with at night.

However, these bits of tech are actually stimuli, which make the going to bed routine harder to implement. After dinner, try enjoying some conversation or a board game to allow the brain some all-important decompression time. Where possible, discourage them from having TV or gadgets in the bedroom at Why is sleep so important? all, as these can be used as a distraction. In fact, making sure that the bedroom is most closely associated with sleep is a We only need to look at some of the poor decisions or small better way to negotiate this obstacle. mistakes we have made ourselves when we are tired, and we can begin to understand the importance of sleep. When coupled The importance of light with the vital rest time for busy, sponge-like brains, getting Whether it's through blackout curtains or nightlights, achieving adequate sleep makes a lot of sense. Whether it's through using the correct balance of light in your child's room is key to sleep aids or planning a meticulous routine, there are several ensuring consistency in their sleep pattern. Invest in some heavy ways to ensure your children reaches the requisite sleep hours. duty curtains so that whether winter or summer, their room is dark, and use a little nightlight for a subtle glow that helps So, how can you encourage them to sleep? orientate them if they do wake up in the night.

Essentially, fostering a good sleeping habit is much easier with So how much sleep should they be getting?

The NHS issues guidelines for optimum sleep time for different age groups have been collected by the Millpond Children's Sleep Clinic. These are: Between the ages of 4 and 16, children should be sleeping through the night for 11 hours, which gradually goes down to about 9 at 14, with 15-minute decrements over the time space.

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Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

May - June 2017

Taking Baby Steps All too often, there is quite a lot of pressure put on us to be happy as a New Mum, reinforced by societal pressures.

time as you get to know baby, as you and baby try to figure things out and your relationship grows.

Not many talk about how tough it can be, because that might mean they are not doing something right, not being grateful or people will think they are not coping.

Let's stop for a moment and think about what has just happened; You have just had a baby. You have created a person, a human being!!!

This is a pretty massive achievement, don't you think? And a massive change in so many aspects in your life, affecting you on almost all levels.

Your body has undergone SO many changes, has been under so much strain and let's not forget the affects labour and giving birth might have had on you mentally and physically.

You are now on the steepest learning curve there is. You are responsible for absolutely everything to ensure this little person's survival. But Baby didn't come with a manual, nor have you had extensive training for this new role.

There is a whole new identity to get your head around, so many new jobs to learn. Becoming a confident Mum takes

You're having to juggle so many things, do so many things and maybe keep up with the expectations and obligations from your old life.

Health Complementary Therapy For Children

By Sally J. Hall Many of us try various complementary therapies to help with aches and pains or a medical condition but they can be just as effective for children, too.

You're one person, who has created life, who is doing something new. You are ONLY one person who gets tired, who needs a break, who needs an extra pair (or two!) of helping hands.

Cranial osteopathy Osteopaths believe that because babies are put into such stressful positions during labour and birth, there has been a lot of pressure on the head. They claim that this can be healed with osteopathy. Only ever use a qualified osteopath. For more informaion: www.rochellemorfill.co.uk

This period of adjustment is normal and you will get through this. If you are struggling to do this on your own, there is support out there for you; talk to your loved ones, your health visitor, see your GP or a Counsellor.

Aromatherapy Though you should be careful about using certain essential oils, as they can be very powerful, you can use aromatherapy with your baby or child.

Read a good book about this first or consult an aromatherapist.

Take baby steps, take each moment as it comes, take your time, practice self compassion, enjoy the good times and be kind to yourself during the hard times.

And you will get through this.

Jessy is a New Mum Wellbeing Counsellor helping with Birth Trauma, Postnatal Depression, Low Self Confidence, Low Self Esteem and much more. For more information go to: www.jessypaston.biz

Reflexology Especially good for babies and toddlers but just as good with older children, reflexology uses gentle pressure on the foot using your thumbs and fingers Go to aor.org.uk to find a practitioner near you.

Massage

This can be done at home though it’s worth going to a few classes first It’s a great way to bond with your child and can help with trapped wind, sleep and other problems such as anxiety.

Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles.

Call 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford & Worcester

May - June 2017

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

9

Clubs and Classes

Scouts Provides Adventure, Fun And Education The image of kids spending lots of time outdoors, getting heaps of fresh air and exercise while learning life skills as they go seems quaintly nostalgic now. There is, however, a great British institution that still promotes and encourages those values, while incorporating the realities of twentyfirst-century living, like IT skills and PR. We spoke to Gareth, a former scout and Scout Leader, about Scouting and what it can offer to today’s youngsters.

First of all Gareth, how has Scouting changed in the twenty years you’ve been involved?

The fact that a major celebrity and world-class adventurer, Bear Grylls, is now the Chief Scout, speaks volumes. His many remarkable achievements are an inspiration to the boys and girls, and he has definitely made scouting cool. We now go right the way through from age 6 to 25 and offer a huge range of activities. The uniform has been updated and is really practical, modern and comfortable for both sexes.

Tell us more about the activities It’s still based on the model of working towards Proficiency badges, which has been proven to be a great system for application and reward. There is something for everyone to work towards and achieve. We’ve got the old favourites like map reading and first aid, but also mechanics, abseiling, photography and entertaining. You name it, really. There is always a topic that will appeal. Going on from there we have the personal development awards, Chief Scout and Queen Scout that are similar to the Duke of Edinburgh awards and impressive for CVs. As well as physical challenges and new skills, these top awards require commitment to a charity, and the Queen herself does the presentation. Quite an honour!

Little Ones Build A Musical Future Monkey Music Redditch and Worcester has teachers who are trained by Monkey Music to deliver the unique and progressive Monkey Music curricula. Baby, toddler and preschool classes are tailor-made to make full use of the half an hour classes. The music classes use a combination of unique songs, catchy music, rhymes, high quality percussion instrument, visual props and lots of energy creating fun for the whole family. In every class the children get to create their own music and develop their learning through playing high quality percussion instruments. In our Monkey Music classes in Redditch, Worcester, Evesham, Droitwich, Pershore and Bromsgrove areas children will learn over three hundred original and traditional songs.

For a FREE CLASS. booking enquiry call Bethan Craner on 01527 62378 or email redditch.worcester@monkeymusic.co.uk

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Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

May - June 2017

Clubs and Classes Do you still go away on camps?

Oh yes. Camps and nights away are a big part of the scouting experience and they are open to the boys and girls of all ages.

It’s a great chance for them to learn some independence and to fit in living and working alongside others. As they get older, the camps get more adventurous and we do overseas expeditions as well. This way we meet up with scouts from other countries, which is a brilliant chance to make new friends, have fun and see that they are a part of something bigger.

Does it cost a lot to become a scout?

I’d say it’s surprisingly cheap compared to a lot of other children’s activities. We have an annual subscription charge, and that varies a bit depending on where in the country you are, but the average is somewhere between £50 and £100. That doesn’t include things like camps, as obviously there are extra costs involved in transport, food and accommodation for trips away. The only other outlay is for the uniform, but there is no need to buy all brand-new kit and the Scouting Association itself can help out for families that struggle with the costs.

What’s the best thing about scouting?

That’s a hard question! There are so many benefits. Most of all, it’s good fun. It’s also good to get kids outdoors, get them muddy, and, at the same time, they are learning behaviours and skills that are setting them up for life. It’s win-win really. They make new friends, they have adventures, and they push themselves. I think the fact that we currently have over 450,000 member’s shows that the movement is more popular than ever and is providing a lot of opportunity for young people.

Monkey Music Redditch & Worcester E: redditch.worcester@monkeymusic.co.uk T: 01527 62378

Monkey Music classes are held at three venues near to you.

1. Arrow Valley Visitor Centre Batterns Drive, Redditch. B98 0LJ 2. Worcester Woods Countryside Centre Wildwood Drive, Worcester, WR5 2LG 3. Hampton Guide, Scout and Community Hall, Pershore Road, Evesham, WR11 2PQ

Teachers required. Full training provided. Call for

A hundred years old?

Yes, we’ve hit our centenary year and there’s been a lot to celebrate. We formed Cub100 to commemorate 100 years of Cub scouting and have held events all over the country. We’re actually the largest mixed youth organisation in the UK today.

Not bad for a movement that was established in 1907. I think it shows we have really moved with the times and are providing a valuable outlet for our members. The transformation in the last fifteen years has been quite remarkable.

For more information about scouting and other clubs visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/activities

Holiday Camps Offer Loads Of Fun Football Fun Holiday Camps offer two types of camps for both boys and girls aged 5-13 years during the school holidays - Football and Multi Sports.

The Football Fun camp is an experienced holiday camp, with the emphasis on children having fun whilst putting their footballing abilities to the test. All staff are FA qualified, have attended First Aid and Child Protection courses and hold a current DBS. During the Multi Sports camp children are able to try a wide range of Sports including Basketball, Athletics, Kwik Cricket, Tag Rugby, Indoor Tennis plus other fun activities.

The next camps are running during May half-term 29 May to 2 June. Hollymount Primary School, Hollymount Road, Worcester, WR4 9SG. To book a place call Andy Beeston on 07482189980 or email: footballfuncamps@gmail.com

May - June 2017

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

11

Children’s Parties

A-Z Of Party Buzz Words A is for Animals. Most children are intrigued by them and enjoy opportunities to get close.

B is for Baking. Parties are available for children from age 4 and kids of all ages will enjoy licking out the bowls!

Most parties take place in your own home or anywhere with a kitchen, but you don’t have to do the clearing up!

C is for Ceramics. An ideal choice for arty children, who can decorate pottery animals, mugs, egg cups and more, and have them fired and glazed on-site.

Established 1992 Fully Qualified Instructors Specialised Classes 4 – 16 years Beginners, Intermediate & Advanced

Train with Sensei Jags Shoker, 3rd Dan

Monday: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Droitwich Spa 5.00 – 6.00pm Wed & Fri: The Parish Centre, Barnt Green 5.30 – 6.30pm Friday: Parkside Middle School, Bromsgrove 3.40 – 4.40pm Saturday: St Peters RC First School, Bromsgrove 9.15–10.15 am Special offer 5 FREE www.kombatkids.com lessons

01543 473408 / 07730 899722 register@kombatkids.com

FREE bag of animal food with this voucher!

Re-Opens 5th April

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

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

www.NewbridgeFarmPark.com

Near Ledbury, HR8 2QG

01531 670780

Call 01684 770566 if you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford & Worcester 12

Families Hereford & Worcester

D is for Dance. Book a dance party!

Choose between ballet, street dance, latin and more, depending on your child’s taste.

Alternatively, opt for a dance-themed party which might include dancing games, action songs, and dance ribbons.

E is for Entertainer. Some specialise in magic or dance, others provide all round entertainment tailored to a particular theme, some provide a “special appearance” by a television character and others still focus on party games.

F is for Face Painting. A great choice for the younger age group, with truly talented painters and good value for money!

G is for Golf. Enjoyable and exciting indoor golfing parties include stimulating games that use a range of large, colourful targets, child-friendly equipment and safe foam balls.

H is for HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I is for Inflatables. There is nothing that is more guaranteed to get a young child smiling than the sight of a bouncy slide and castle at a birthday party!

J is for Jeeps. Jeep driving parties are still fairly unique, considering that you can hold them indoors or outdoors. An inflatable track and jeeps are provided

M is for Music. Often with similar features to the classes they derive from, music parties are generally suitable for the 0-5 age group who love the mix of music, dance and musical instruments.

N is for Nature. For kids who like the great outdoors, head to an outdoor venue. Many provide engaging activities as well as a venue for birthday tea.

O is for One Stop Shop. Reduce party stress with a party provider that offers a venue, entertainment and food.

Remember to check this out when you are doing your research!

P is for Ponies. Many children love ponies, so imagine how special a party at a riding stables would be!

Q is for Quality. Remember that the most expensive parties are not necessarily the best quality!

R is for Rugby. These parties often follow a similar format to football parties, and include lots of running around, rugby-related activities, and fun for girls and boys from age 2 upwards.

S is Soft Play. These venues can be hired inclusive of toys, inflatables and ball pits and are a very popular choice for kids of all ages

T is for Traditional. Remember you can keep it simple. Young children are more than happy with party games, a birthday tea and cake.

U is for Umbrella. Essential for outdoor parties, even in Summer!

W is for Weather. Remember not to rely on it!

X is for eXtraordinary! Don’t worry, your child’s birthday party will always be eXtraordinary!

K is for Karts. Go Kart Parties are a lots of fun and suit kids from age 4 to 14.

Y is for Yoga. Want your kids to have a zen experience? Yoga parties often provide a combination of yoga and other forms of party entertainment

L is for Leisure Centres. Many leisure centres provide great sport, soft play, trampoline or gymnastics parties.

Z is for Zumba. You don’t have to be a teenager or an adult to enjoy this latininfluenced dance/exercise sensation.

To advertise call: 01684 770566

May - June 2017

Children’s Party Ideas Animals

Jenny’s Pampering – 07816 484785 www.jennyspampering.co.uk

Animalmania 01905 757136 www.animal-mania.org

The Daisy Face Company – 07886 317051 www.thedaisyfacecompany.com

Life in the Rainforest 01386 49747 www.lifeintherainforest.co.uk

Go-Karting

Party Ponies provides pony rides for children at your party, fete and other fund raising events. For children 2yrs - 12yrs.

Prices from £120 for 1 hour party with 2 ponies.

Individual lessons also available especially for youngsters too young to attend riding schools. £10 for 1/2 hour.

Call Tracey 01527 574199 www.partyponies.co.uk

Worcester Indoor Karting & Laser Combat – 01905 352200 www.kartingworcester.co.uk JDR Karting – Tel 01452 311211 www.jdrkarting.co.uk

Music and Movement Little Giggles – 07568 061192 www.little-giggles.co.uk Pyjama Drama – 01527 908935 www.pyjamadrama.com Noodle Doodles – 07718 762030 www.noodledoodles.co.uk

Pottery Eastnor Pottery – 01531 633886 www.eastnorpottery.co.uk

Simply Alpaca Birthday Parties – 07980 587562 www.simplyalpaca.co.uk Trevor Hill birds and animals 01885 410768 www.thbirdsandanimals.webs.com

Arts and Crafts

Green Frog Pottery – 01684 561778 www.greenfrogpottery.co.uk Honeybourne Pottery – 01386 830410 www.honeybournepots.co.uk

Scalextric

Mosaic Parties – 01299 828374 www.mosaicparties.co.uk

Phoenix Scalextric – 07949 656577 www.phoenixscalextriccircuit.com

Cookery

Sport

Crafty Cooks – 01628 476670 www.craftycooks.co.uk/classes/ worcester Pizza Express – www.pizzaexpress.com/parties/kidspizzamaking/ Red Hen Cookery Parties – 01905 422997 www.redhencookery.co.uk

KO Sport delivers birthday parties with a difference. Coming highly recommended from years of bookings we have fine-tuned our parties to ensure maximum fun for all guests.

Incorporating fun filled sports or dance around your child’s favourite TV/book characters or theme is a winning combination.

KO Sport can take all the worry away by providing invitations, party bags and entertainment and even a sports trophy for the birthday child.

Dance and Drama Beat Breakerz School of Dance Worcester and Droitwich – 01905 29647 or 07715 638711 www.beatbreakerzschoolofdance.co.uk

Shooting4Fun - Entertainment for most kids aged 07 to 107 for all your shooting entertainment needs. We are based in Hanbury Worcestershire, just a ten-minute drive from Junction 5 of the M5.

Wedding Day Laser Clay Shooting – Woodland Laser Tag Birthday Parties – Office Parties – Works Parties – Corporate Entertainment - Stag & Hen Parties – After Conference Entertainment – Team Building Events - ½ day and full day programmes available.

From football to Zumba, goal ball to disco Enquiries & Bookings All of our shooting divas, or why not try our new roller disco entertainment activities and outdoor pursuits Stagecoach Redditch and Evesham – parties? Whichever one you choose we are available on a pre-booked basis, all enquiries 01386 429429 www.stagecoach.co.uk/parties guarantee your child will have a birthday to please, to Mark on 01527-575141 or Email remember. Email enquiries@kosport.co.uk or mark@marksmanleisure.co.uk Face Painting and Make Up Call 01905 840396 Funky Faces face painting and My Little Makeover www.kosport.co.uk Inflatables Party BBC Inflatables

Jane on 01905 763362 or Jo on 07967 483878.

Footiebugs – 01905 841902 Families 87mm x 60mm:Shooting 4 Fun 17/3/17 16:27 www.funkyfaces.biz 0121 777 7792 www.footiebugs.com www.bbcinflatables.co.uk

Page

For Ages 4-11 • Sporty Parties • Dodgeball • Football

• Dance

• Tag Rugby

• Multisports

Parties can be themed e.g.

Minions, Paddington, Minecraft, Adventure Time, Frozen

LASER CLAY SHOOTING | REAL CLAY SHOOTING ARCHERY | RIFLE SHOOTING CHILDRENS’ LASER TAG PARTIES Children’s parties and family fun days at our 4.5 acre woodland setting in Hanbury, Worcestershire.

For more information contact Mark:

01527 575141

www.shooting4fun.co.uk May - June 2017

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

13

What’s On

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

THEATRE Artrix, School Drive, Bromsgrove, B60 1AX 01527 577330, www.artrix.co.uk The Elves And The Shoemaker: A story sure to make old and young alike feel all warm and cosy inside. 21 May 12.00 pm and 2.30pm Sarah And Duck’s Big Top Birthday: Take you and your children on a magical adventure.

10 June 1pm Malvern Theatres, Grange Road, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 3HB. 01684 892277 www.malvern-theatres.co.uk The Very Hungry Caterpillar: The timeless classic makes its way off the page and onto the stage. 24-25 May Norbury Theatre, Norbury House, Friar Street, Droitwich Spa, WR9 8ED 01905 770154, www.norburytheatre.co.uk

Hang about! Go Ape is giving away a Tree Top Junior birthday party for eight. One lucky winner will take on a fun filled hour in the tree-tops with their friends on a Go Ape! adventure especially designed for kids (1m+).

To be in with a chance of winning answer the following: Q: How tall do you need to be to enjoy Tree Top Junior? a. 1.4m b. 1.0m c. 0.7m Enter via email by Friday 9th June. Put ‘Go Ape Birthday’ in the subject line of your message, and send your answer, your name, postal address and contact number to editor editor@familiesherefordandworcs.co.uk goape.co.uk | 0845 838 1612 | Quote FAMFD7 for 10% discount

Children’s Theatre: Short plays for Children.

Highly Entertaining for kids of all ages.

20 May 2.30pm Number 8 Community Arts Centre, 8 High Street, Pershore, Worcs, WR10 1BG 01386 555488, www.number8.org NT Live: Peter Pan: Captured live at the National Theatre, this recording of JM Barrie’s much-loved tale is a delight for children and adults alike.

17 June 2.00 pm Palace Theatre, Alcester Street, Redditch, Worcs, B98 8AE 01527 65203, www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Alive In Wonderland: Come with Ballet Theatre UK’s Alice on a magical adventure as she tumbles into Wonderland! 3 June 7.30pm The Courtyard, Edgar Street, Hereford, HR4 9JR 01432 340555, www.courtyard.org.uk Courtyard Family Saturdays: Want something different to do with your kids on a Saturday morning? Live shows, film, workshops, free activities. Every Saturday. 10.30am.

The Swan Theatre, The Moors, Worcester, WR1 3ED 01905 611427, www.worcesterlive.co.uk Don’t Dribble on the Dragon: Musical adventure based on the fabulous new book by Steven Lee and with magic designed by the legendary Paul Daniels. 13 May 2.00 pm.

MUSEUMS Avoncroft Museum of Historic Buildings, Stoke Heath, Bromsgrove B60 4JR 01527 831363, www.avoncroft.org.uk Museums At Night: Bring your tent, pack your sleeping bag and join us for a night under canvas.

Storytelling round the campfire! 20 May. Famous Five Go To Avoncroft. Pack a picnic and bring your most trusted friends for a week of oldfashioned adventures. 29 May - 2 June.

Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle, Hartlebury, Nr Kidderminster, Worcs, DY11 7XZ 01299 250416, www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk

Put your event in front of 44,000 readers with school aged children. Call 01684 770566 if

you are interested in advertising in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine 14

Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

All The Fun Of The Circus: Try your hand at circus skills including juggling, spinning plates and stilt walking, make a paper tiger and design a clown mask.

An additional charge of £2 per child applies for the day’s activities.30 May - 1 June.

Father’s Day: All Dad’s admitted free 18 June 11.00am - 5.00pm.

May - June 2017

What’s On

Please mention you saw this event in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine

Forge Mill Needle Museum, Needle Mill Lane, Riverside, Redditch, B98 8HY, www.forgemill.org.uk

house and orchards and join Mr Dennett for some gardening.

27 May – 4 June 11.00 am – 4.00 pm

Farm Fun Sunday: Come along to Forge Mill and enjoy all the fun of the farm. An opportunity to meet some cuddly creatures and enjoy some other rural activities. 11 June 11.00am - 4.00pm.

Father’s Day BBQ, Beer and Ceilidh Band: Lunchtime food, good music and beer in the open air.

18 June 11.00am – 4.00pm

EVENTS

Croome Park. near High Green, Worcester, Worcestershire, WR8 9DW 01905 371006 Become a 50 things Croome Explorer trail: Follow the clues as you follow the 50 things outdoor trail around the parkland.

27 May – 4 June 10.00 am – 4.00 pm Hay Festival, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5AD 01497 822 629, www.hayfestival.com Hay Days: Hay Festival’s programme for children and young people. Are you curious, adventurous, dreamy, imaginative and ready to have fun?

Do you like listening, talking, making and sticking, animating or cooking? And, of course, reading?

The Hay Days programme is packed with events designed to make all of that happen. 25 May – 4 June

Nostalgic weekend: Eastnor Castle Eastnor Castle, Ledbury, Herefordshire, HR8 1RL 01531 633160, www.eastnorcastle.com Vintage Family Fun Day: Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the past as they walk through an impressive line-up of steam engines and classic cars in the Courtyard including a selection of vehicles that have never been seen at Eastnor before. Alongside the vehicles will be a vintage carousel, chair swing, Punch & Judy shows, tea tent, garden games, pony rides, live music and more! 28 - 29 May 11.00am -5.30pm Family Fun Day: Family fun with garden games and a zip-wire on the Valley Lawn.

11 June.

Three Counties Showground, Malvern, WR13 6NW 01684 584900, www.threecounties.co.uk Royal Three Counties Show: A great summer’s day out. Lots of activities for all the family.

16 – 18 June.

Hampton Court Castle and Gardens, Hope-under-Dinmore, Leominster, HR6 0PN 01568 797676, www.hamptoncourt.org.uk Medieval Village & Birds of Prey Flying Spectacular: Watch as a Knight prepares for battle, visit the Medieval Surgeon and The Royal Executioner, see the Birds of Prey. 27- 29 May Brockhampton Estate, Bringsty, near Bromyard, Herefordshire, WR6 5TB 01885 488099, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/brockhampton-estate The Secret Garden Family Trail: Follow the trail around the manor May - June 2017

Severn Valley Railway, Kidderminster Station, Comberton Hill, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX 01299 403816, www.svr.co.uk Peppa Pig & George Visit Come along to see Peppa Pig & George who will appear at regular intervals throughout the day at The Engine House, our Visitor Centre at Highley. 6-7 May

Spring Diesel Festival: Three days of visiting heritage and modern diesel locomotives, home-fleet action, evening running and one or two surprises! 18 - 20 May. Asparafest Music & Food Festival, Evesham Ashdown Farm, Badsey, Nr Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 7PA www.asparafest.co.uk Worcestershire’s Aspara-tastic Music & Food Festival: Family fun, Workshops, Demonstrations, Exhibitors and more! 2 and 4 June

COURSES FOR ACTIVITIES AND THE SCHOOL NG RI CHILDREN DU HOLIDAYS

GE MALVERN COLLE , 8AM - 6PM MONDAY - FRIDAYED REGISTERED ST OF AGES 4 - 12 • VE 15% WITH CODE

SA

FAMILIES17

FROM

£PER3DA4Y

Visit Eastnor

VINTAGE EASTNOR

Buy fast-tra

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tickets online

Sun 28 & Mon 29 May #VintageEastnor A nostalgic family fun day! Impressive steam engines, model steam engine rides, vintage carousel, chair swing and more! PLUS all the usual attractions. eastnorcastle.com

/EastnorCastle

@EastnorCastle

The Jinney Ring,Hanbury Road, Hanbury, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire,B60 4BU 01527 821 272 www.jinneyring.co.uk Jinney Ring Craft Month: Throughout May we are celebrating Craft Month with a programme of classes, workshops and activities. This is a great opportunity to explore your creativity and try something new! 1- 31 May Rock and Roll Party in the Park, Riverside, Stourport, DY13 8UJ www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk A celebration of Rock and Roll music featuring a D.J., live bands and dance throughout the day plus children’s rides. Free admission.

4 June 11.00 am – 6.00 pm.

Malvern Hills Walk Family walk across the Malvern Hills. Proceeds to St Richard’s Hospice. 20 May.

Lots for curious minds to discover at Cheltenham Science Festival 6–11 June Cheltenham Music Festival 1–16 July Visit cheltenhamfestivals.com to find out about our family-friendly activities

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

15

Families Hereford & Worcester

Please mention you saw this event in Families Hereford & Worcester magazine

Book Now!

19-21 19-21 MayMay 2017 May 2017 NEC Birmingham NEC Birmingham 19-21 2017 NEC Birmingham Everything Everything You Need YouYou For Need ForFor Everything Need Bump,Bump, Baby Bump, &Baby You &Baby You & You

Advance Ticket Offer Book Tickets Now & Save Over 35%* Quote FAMILIES2017

thebabyshow.co.uk

*Saving is based on the standard on-the-door ticket price of £20. To book by phone call 0871 231 0844.

Calls cost 13p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge. Advance Box Office closes midnight 18/05/2017. £2.10 transaction fee applies per booking.

J368230_BSLN08_Families_Advert_180x130_2017_v2.indd 1

05/04/2017 16:55

Action-packed childcare this

Ofsted registered

May

Half Term Tuesday 30th May - Friday 2nd June Open from 8am - 6pm Choice of venues

Hagley

Come and learn all about

We accept childcare vouchers

Hagley High School

Africa and the animals and

Bromsgrove

plants that make it their home!

Alvechurch

Meadows Parkside School

Alvechurch Middle School and Crown Meadow First School

4FOR £60 DAYS

Please see our website for more details

All Things Wild Nature Centre Station Road, Honeybourne, Near Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 7QZ T: 01386 833083

Book before 12th May and take advantage of our

Early bird offers!

*Terms and conditions apply

For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 0121 663 1979

16

Families Hereford & Worcester

To advertise call: 01684 770566

May - June 2017