Families Hampshire West Magazine

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IN THIS ISSUE RECRUITING NOW Successsful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extrordinary lifestyle,

Please call Vicki King 07501 433 922

Issue 62 January/February 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

Early Years Childcare Winter Clubs & Classes Spring School Open Days What’s on this January & February

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West

AFFORDABLE

HAPPY PUPILS

SMALL CLASSES ZERO BULLYING EXCELLENT EXAM

RESULTS

Brook Lane

Botley SO30 2ER

Woodhill School Independent School for boys and girls aged 2 - 11 years

OPEN DAYS

Friday 12th & Saturday 13th January Friday 9th & Saturday 10th February

Fees: ￡2311 per Term - Ask about our Monthly Payment Option.

Pupils say they feel happy, safe and looked after.

Maximum class size of 15 pupils.

Zero complaints of bullying in bullying record.

A long history of outstanding results in entrance exams

01489 781112

www.woodhill.hants.sch.uk

Co-educational Independent Education for Ages 11-18

• Academic excellence • Strong pastoral support • Extensive range of co-curricular opportunities • Outstanding facilities

• Comprehensive bus service covering south Hampshire and Salisbury • Financial assistance, scholarships and sports awards available

Visit the school We would be delighted to show you around the school on a normal working day.

If you would like to arrange a tour of the school with the Registrar or find out more about King Edward’s then please get in touch.

2 Families Hampshire West

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Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk What’s on and local news Chloe Atkinson assistant@familieshampshirewest.co.uk

© Kaile Meyers Photography

Managing Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk 07789 882 467

Easter, party venues, education, SEN, clubs & classes, what’s on and much more.

Contents

Booking deadline 2 February 2018 Artwork deadline 7 February 2018

4

Local news

5

Why invest in a pair of quality shoes?

6

Education news

6

Spring school open days

8

Early years childcare feature

11

Help your child to manage their feelings

If you would like to receive free copies to give out to your school, nursery or club, just ask!

Email rebecca@familieshampshirewest.co.uk

12

Winter clubs & classes

14

Party news

Cover image: © Kaile Meyers Photography

16

What’s on in January and February

19

New Year book reviews

Next issue March/April 2018

Distribution We distribute in Winchester, Southampton, The New Forest, Totton, Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford, Hedge End, Bursledon, Netley, Park Gate and all the areas in between.

© Families Hampshire West Magazine 2018.

January/February

FREE take me home!

Families Hampshire West is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company.

All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Hampshire West. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Hampshire West; our distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extrordinary lifestyle,

Please call Vicki King 07501 433 922

IN THIS ISSUE

Free Magazines

Education news Swimming Great minds and how to grow them Halloween events What’s on

Issue 60 September/October familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West

for your school, nursery, cafe, shop or club - just ask!

editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk or 07789 882467

Six issues per year

W.J.French & Son SHOEFITTERS OF DISTINCTION

www.wjfrenchandson.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

40 Bedford Place, Southampton. SO15 2DG

023 8022 6542

mail@wjfrenchandson.co.uk Families Hampshire West 3

The Tropical House will open its doors to the public on 26 March. For more information visit marwell.org.uk.

Thinking about returning to learning?

In addition to providing qualified, experienced, insured and DBS/reference checked 1:1 tutors; Home School Tutoring UK is about to launch a range of accredited (NCFE/CACHE) distance learning courses. From entry level to GCSE equivalent, the list includes Functional Skills in English, maths and IT, retail, early management, care, autism awareness, hospitality and more.

D VE

LIES APPRO MI

Marwell Zoo recently unveiled its unique £8m Tropical House exhibition due to open in March.

Under its spectacular state-of-the-art curved roof, crafted with cutting-edge technology, a rainforest and a living laboratory will come to life. Spanning two levels with fantastic vantage points across a lush canopy, with a cascading waterfall and a bustling forest floor below, guests will become more connected with a diversity of extraordinary wildlife than ever before. Nature lovers will experience uninterrupted face-to-face encounters with animals from all six groups mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates while learning about the flow of energy through life.

A home from home with Chilly Powder

FA

A state-of-the-art Tropical House opens this March at Marwell Zoo

LIES APPRO MI

D VE

FA

Local News

Do you prefer winter or summer in the Alps… or both? Francesca, Paul and their three children live in Morzine in France all year round and have a good knowledge of Alpine traditions and the Morzine people. Having adapted their chalet holiday style over the years to suit the tastes of their regular guests, they offer the perfect ski and summer holidays for either families, couples or mixed groups in relaxing luxury, with fantastic food and outstanding facilities, with unrivalled in-house childcare facilities. For many returning guests Chilly Powder is considered a real home from home. For more about Chilly Powder chalets visit www.chillypowder.com.

Stagecoach Fareham and Hedge End new school opening this January Stagecoach Fareham and Hedge End has been running for over 14 years and has had the privilege to develop some wonderful talents. Each week over 250 students aged 6-18 attend Main Stages classes and receive an hours training of each of the three disciplines of singing, dancing and drama by professionally trained teachers. There is a new school opening this month January at The Kings Community Church in Hedge End. Classes are on Thursday 5pm-8pm at Crofton School in Stubbington, Friday 4.30pm-7.30pm at Wildern School, Hedge End. Saturday 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm at Whiteley Primary School.

Stagecoach also offer Early Stages classes for 4-6 year olds, at all three venues, which provides students with 30 minutes introductory training in each discipline.

They also offer additional performance opportunities for those students who show a real wish to be involved in the theatre through professional touring productions approaching us for children to perform in their shows or through our own performance troupes. If you would like any more information, visit www.stagecoach.co.uk/fareham or www.stagecoach.co.uk/hedgeend or call 01489 666323 and speak to Principal Vanessa.

Spin a tale during National Storytelling Week The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories — from conversations retelling events in our lives, to watching our favourite television shows.

All courses will be free to anyone over the age of 16, (a fully refundable deposit will be held) including books (these can be retained by the learner) marking and certification. Learn and qualify in the comfort of your own home – no exams, submit your work online in your own time.

Speech and language therapists believe that storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas.

To be a good reader and writer a child needs to be a good speaker and listener first. But above all, storytelling is fun.

Contact alex.murray-twinn@ homeschooltutoring.co.uk for further details or see www.facebook.com/HomeSchoolTutoring HampshireWestandCentral

National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, schools, hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes. The Society for Storytelling has lots of information as “the home of UK oral storytelling” and offers free packs for schools to download.

To find a local event or to look through its extensive archive visit www.sfs.org.uk

4 Families Hampshire West

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Why invest in a pair of quality shoes?

Mums want flexible working opportunities

Caroline French gives her advice

According to a survey by Workingmums.co.uk, almost three quarters of working mums identify flexible work as being crucial to getting more women

I overheard a conversation in the playground recently between two mums who were discussing how they buy their children’s shoes at a well-known discount shoe retailer for £10 a time. They buy a new pair of shoes every half term as the child wears or grows out of them.

Let’s compare this to buying a pair of good quality shoes which cost on average £45-£50. Why spend the extra money?

1.

Shoes affect the way you walk. A quality shoe will have good support and shock absorbency, which will be more comfortable and can help prevent joint pain.

into senior roles.

The survey shows that mums feel flexible working is vital for them to manage work and family life and that 60% of those who work flexibly would like even more flexibility.

So what can individuals do to help persuade their employers to agree to them working flexibly?

Here are some tips: •

2. Good growing room. If a shoe has a good heel fit and toe shape, then maximum growing room can be given and the shoe will last much longer than a cheap pair. On average I buy two pairs of shoes a year each for my three children aged between 7 and 11.

Think through what the job requires and whether the tasks you have to perform can be done at a different location ie from home, or at times outside of the standard working day. Take account of any additional costs or challenges this might involve and discuss them honestly.

•

3. Children like to do lots of running around and a child’s foot can get pretty sweaty. Quality breathable materials help keep a cool environment in the shoes helping to prevent Athletes foot and other skin conditions.

Give examples of the ways in which your work can be successfully carried out under any new working pattern you are proposing, and show that it will not harm the business. Point out any business advantages.

•

Research some case studies, ideally in your sector that shows how the work pattern you are suggesting can be mutually beneficial to you and your employer.

•

If managers are dubious, suggest a trial period.

•

Have a compromise solution as a back-up.

4.

Getting a quality shoe that has been professionally fitted, will help look after your child’s feet for years to come and help prevent bunions, claw toes and calluses. The cheaper shoe can become the more expensive option in the long run.

W J French & Son is an independent business based in Bedford Place, Southampton and has been run by the same family for 213 years. We are founding members of the Society of Shoe fitters and our experienced fitters have an average length of service of 20 years.

Visit www. wjfrenchandson.co.uk or call 02380 226542 for more information and openng times.

Highwood House, Highwood Lane, Romsey, S051 9ZH 01794 513231

Stroud School, Romsey Co-educational Independent School for Ages 3-13

registrar@stroud-kes.org.uk www.stroud-kes.org.uk

• Preparatory School for King Edward VI Southampton • Small class sizes • Preparation for 11+ and 13+ • 22 acres of outdoor learning including sports fields, woodland forest, school farm and adventure play area Come and see what Stroud can offer your child Stroud provides an “education of the highest quality” ISI Report

familiesonline.co.uk

Visit www.workingmums.co.uk for more information and flexible work opportunities.

Looking for a new opportunity?

11 years ago I was like any Mum who had just stepped into the world of motherhood, nervous excited and not really sure how I would ever be able to leave my daughter to go back to work. At this point I decided to resign from my corporate position and sit and think about what I really wanted to do. I decided I still wanted to have the independence of earning my own income but on my terms, I wanted control over my diary so I could choose when I worked.

I came across a small advert for a home based opportunity that was offering the flexibility and income I wanted. I now earn a full time income around my two children who are now 12 and 7. I’m enjoying the benefits that would rival any blue-chip company in the city. More importantly, I’ve achieved my success by helping other people (especially mums) to succeed, coaching the simple business model which has served the company for almost four decades and earned them the investor in people Gold status in the UK. For more information please contact Vicki King on 07501 433922 or email Vickimking5@gmail.com Families Hampshire West 5

Education News

Moyles Court School re-engineers itself for continued success Moyles Court School has seen its fortunes change almost exponentially, after quietly getting on with its job of teaching children of all abilities in a safe and caring environment. This turn of fortune has been fuelled by the hard work and vision of current Headmaster Richard Milner-Smith, who has taken it upon himself to really understand the market for independent education in order to hit on a unique package that parents are really looking for. Outstanding individualised learning, affordability and accessibility are the pillars that the whole school focusses on, to enable every child to exceed expectations both intellectually and socially.

As a smaller school, Moyles Court is able to nurture each and every pupil; allowing bigger achievers to accelerate, while helping others do better than they may have thought possible. Traditional good manners are tantamount and these traditional values are bred into the school’s ethos.

Moyles has grown from a position of inner strength, deep routed honest qualities now driven by strong leadership. Moyles has grown organically to attain higher levels of academic success, with another record level of GCSE results for the school in 2017.

Moyles Court School is holding an Open Morning on Sat 3 March, 10am-12.30pm.

Come and find out more. Academic Scholarships are now available. www.moylescourt.co.uk

Spring School Open Day Dates Moyles Court School

King Edward VI School continues to invests in their pupils future King Edward VI School has a long and distinguished history and has been at the heart of Southampton for 465 years and is now a very forward looking, vibrant and dynamic institution and aims to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.

The School has a reputation for impressive academic results but, while essential for future success, they are looking for pupils with a wide range of skills and interests and combine the pursuit of academic excellence with a range of opportunity and challenge to develop self-confident and independent young people who have a strong sense of community and will become responsible and reflective future leaders.

The School continues to invest in its facilities and in September last year, opened its new Theatre, Art Department and VI form Centre. Over £20 million worth of investment has taken place over the past decade with a new sports ground and pavilion at Wellington, an outward bound centre on Dartmoor, complete refurbishment of all classrooms and laboratories, new music facilities and extensive IT provision including the adoption of 1:1 technology for all pupils.

Come and see what King Edward VI School can offer your child. Call 02380 799216 or visit www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Net a good education Reading, writing… and fly fishing is now on the curriculum at a Hampshire prep school.

As part of Prince’s Mead School’s commitment to providing an allround education, Headmistress, Miss Kirk believes fishing is a life skill that teaches resilience, focus and patience. She says: “It gives children the opportunity to be still, de-stress, and appreciate the beauty of Hampshire’s world-famous river banks – away from digital distractions.”

King Edward VI School Southampton, SO15 02380 799216 Please call to make an appointment to view the school.

Prince’s Mead Winchester SO21 1AN 01962 888000 Friday 9 March 1.30 - 4pm Moyles Court School Ringwood BH24 3NF Saturday 3 March 10am – 12.30pm Stroud School Romsey, SO51 9ZH 01794 513231 Please call to make an appointment to view the school.

St Mary’s Independent School Southampton SO18 4DJ 02380 671267 Please call to make an appointment to view the school.

The Gregg Prep School Southampton SO171EJ 02380 557352 Thursday 1 March 9am - 12noon Woodhill School Botley, SO30 2ER 01489 781112 Friday 12 and Saturday 13 January Friday 9 and Saturday 10 February

The unusual after school club at the Kings Worthy prep has gained the enthusiastic backing of the fly fishing world and been featured in a FishingTV documentary.

Prospective parents are invited to the Open Day on 9 March from 1.30-4pm, call 01962 888000 to book your place. For more information about Prince’s Mead School visit www.princesmeadschool.org.uk 6 Families Hampshire West

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OPEN AFTERNOON 9th March, 18th May, 12th October 2018 1.30pm – 4.00pm • ISI recently judged every aspect of life at Prince’s Mead to be of the highest standard – Excellent • High success rate for Year 6 pupils gaining entry to their chosen senior school • In-house minibus service with routes covering Winchester and the surrounding area included in the school fees Worthy Park House, Kings Worthy, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1AN T. 01962 888000 E. admin@princesmeadschool.org.uk www.princesmeadschool.org.uk

ADFAM01

Home-School Tutoring UK Tutors (with full references/DBS checked) available for: • • • • •

The Sheiling Ringwood School and College (6-25 years)

Set in a stunning, sustainable and eco-friendly 40-acre site close to the New Forest and Dorset coastline, the natural surroundings of our school and college provide a rich, enabling and therapeutic learning environment for students who have a special educational need.

All Ages, Levels and Subjects Special Needs Support Exam Preparation Support with Home Schooling Holiday and/or Term Time Work

Initial consultation is free and without obligation

Please contact the Area Advisor for Hampshire (West & Central) Mrs Alex Murray-Twinn, BA (Hons), PGCE, NPQH

02380 275573

alex.murray-twinn@homeschooltutoring.co.uk

www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk Like to join us as a tutor?

Get in touch today!

We offer an individualised and flexible approach to placements. Day and residential. We also offer respite services for our students during the holidays.

Call 01425 477488 www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

(est. 1984) Families Hampshire West 7

Ensuring your child is happy at nursery Words by Kristen Harding, a childcare expert at Tinies Childcare UK

Eating

Meal times at nursery are important and can have a real impact on the confidence and comfort of a young child. What your child is used to at home may differ greatly from what occurs in the nursery setting, whether it’s the food eaten or the way in which meals are consumed.

When you visit your child’s nursery, try to do so at meal time occasionally. In a good setting, you will see nursery staff leading by example, engaging children with different food choices, helping them to learn about what they are eating and introducing new foods gradually.

Potty Training

This is another key milestone in your child’s development and reaching it may throw up stumbling blocks! Again, it is important to remember that each child is different and so will begin to learn at a different point and progress at a different speed to other children.

A good nursery will ensure there’s no feeling of peer pressure between parents or children!

The process of introducing a child to a new caring environment can throw up a number of challenges. However, some can be prevented if your child’s nursery gets to know upfront what both you and your child need and want from the childcare arrangement.

and settle into the new arrangement just as much as your child does. In fact, it’s often parents that have most difficulty leaving a child behind in a new setting! However, communicating regularly and in as much detail as you need with the nursery setting can help ease your nervousness and worry.

Before a child arrives at a new nursery, staff should take time to fully understand your child’s home routine. In this way, potential issues can also be nipped in the bud early.

Separation Anxiety

Settling In

This is a key part of the adjustment process. A change in environment can upset a child and parents are generally stressed and worried when their child is unsettled. For this reason, it’s vital that your chosen nursery takes time to help your child gently settle in. Communication between your child’s nursery and yourself is very important at this stage. You need to develop a trusting relationship with the staff

Regardless of the time taken beforehand, separation anxiety is a natural and sometimes unavoidable part of leaving a child at a nursery.

Generally, separation anxiety lessens over time but you can help by ensuring that nursery staff understand as much as possible about your child’s individual needs, how they behave when they are sad, anxious or upset and what helps calm them. This will ensure that your child’s nursery cares for your child in the very best way during this difficult period.

Often the anxiety of a child lessens when a nursery assigns a key worker.

Don’t start potty training as your child is starting nursery. When you do decide to begin, ensure it’s not at a time of change or a stressful period at home. Share training methods with your child’s nursery to ensure consistency of approach.

Sleep

It is important that home and nursery work together over nap times, as the needs of individual children differ. When a child starts at a nursery, the nursery should follow the child’s home routine before adapting it slowly to suit the nursery pattern. It’s then helpful if you try to prevent your child taking extra naps, as his routine is likely to be disrupted. If your child struggles to sleep at the nursery, a toy or blanket from home can provide comfort and help them drift off.

Whilst challenges are bound to arise during your child’s time at nursery, most particularly at the beginning, these can generally be dealt with as long as there is good communication between you and your child’s setting.

OPEN DAY

aT hoME pERFECT16lY YEaR oldS

SaTURdaY 3Rd MaRCh, 10aM -12.30pM

FoR 3 -

Many parents report that we are the perfect fit for their child and that’s why we’re able to turn in the results. Being in the heart of the New Forest gives us a deep connect with our environment and our pupils feel this too. Enjoy life at Moyles Court, enjoy life while learning.

co-educational, day & boarding TElEphoNE: 01425 472 856 8 Families Hampshire West

WWW.MoYlESCoURT.Co.UK familiesonline.co.uk

Reception Class September 2018 A place where children are nurtured to pursue every passion, no matter how big or how small.

#WeNurture

St. Mary’s Independent School

57 Midanbury Lane, Bitterne Park, Southampton SO18 4DJ

Telephone: 023 8067 1267 Email: prep@stmiss.co.uk www.stmarysindependentschool.co.uk

We nurture. We inspire. We achieve.

Childcare spaces available, give us a call or visit our website to find out more.

Fairthorne Manor Nursery

Woolston Nursery

4 months-5 years 4 months-5 years Monday-Friday Monday-Friday 7.30am-6pm 7.30am-6pm 51 weeks per year 51 weeks per year 02380 441648 01489 772222

Eastleigh Pre-school

Millbook Pre-school

Newtown Pre-school

Townhill Pre-school

Weston Park Pre-school

2-5 years Monday-Thursday 8.30am-3.30pm Friday 8.30am-12.30pm Term time only 02380 641718

2-5 years Monday-Friday 8am-4pm Term time only 02382 358601

2-5 years Monday-Friday 8am-4pm Term time only

2-5 years Monday-Friday 8am-5pm 51 weeks per year

2-5 years Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Term time only

02380 221260

02380 476283

02380 431186

www.ymca-fg.org Welcoming

Active

Half Page 180x130mm_Nursery Advert.indd 4 familiesonline.co.uk

Listening

Inspiring

Caring

Exciting 11/12/2017 10:58 Families Hampshire West 9

Early years childcare

Discover adventure, fun and exploration at Stroud School in Romsey Discover adventure, fun, exploration and investigation in our stimulating, caring and evolving Early Years environment. At Stroud School, children from age 3 begin their school life in a purpose built Early Years Centre designed and built with the child at its heart. The extensive and diverse surroundings provide exciting and challenging opportunities for children to develop and learn creatively both indoors and outdoors.

Every child is unique and brings a wide range of experiences as they enter early education. They provide positive, rich experiences for all children, enabling them to access learning that develops and stretches them and excites their imaginations.

A caring and nurturing environment at The Gregg Preparatory School The Gregg Preparatory School is an independent co-educational day school for children aged 3–11. The School has recently changed its name from St Winifred’s to strengthen and celebrate the close links with their partner senior school The Gregg School. Both schools are proud of their long tradition of excellence that they have held in Southampton since 1880.

In the caring and nurturing environment of the Gregg preparatory School, children thrive and become the best version of themselves both academically and socially. The small classes led by dedicated staff ensure that children develop the enthusiasm and confidence needed to achieve and succeed. High expectations challenge and support the children in equal measure both inside and outside the classroom. Great importance is placed on respect for everyone throughout the school community; good manners and courtesy are encouraged and celebrated.

If you would like to arrange a tour call 023 8055 7352.

To visit or for more information visit www. stroud-kes.org.uk

Woodhill encourage children to flourish at their Nursery in Botley YMCA Fairthorne Group YMCA Fairthorne Group is a leading childcare provider across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Our approach puts children at the centre of what we do and by using play-based learning we support and encourage their development, offering them a fantastic start in life at our nurseries and pre-schools.

Woodhill School has an amazing Nursery where children flourish and develop through play. Their qualified and enthusiastic staff take every opportunity to teach the little ones through activities that encourage and stimulate each child’s imagination.

Woodhill have built a very special environment for their nursery children. They encourage them to feel the nursery is their home, zoo, shop, veterinary surgery or even DinoLand!

The welcoming and caring environments put children first; a child’s early years are vitally important for their future development.

Parents and carers are the best partners – you are the expert on your child and, together, we will give them the best possible start in life.

There is an importance of teaching children routine, sharing, and the social skills necessary to become well-rounded individuals and children love a broad range of activities, especially cooking which is always a highlight.

To find out more visit www.ymca-fg.org

Visit www.woodhill.hants.sch.uk for more information.

10 Families Hampshire West

St Mary’s Independent School Nursery and Pre-Preparatory St. Mary’s Independent School has an exceptional record of academic success. The foundation for learning starts in the Nursery, where carefully designed play provides the best conditions for the introduction of reading, writing and numeracy.

In the Pre-Preparatory, children continue to develop their social and interpersonal skills by listening, taking turns and becoming more independent. French, music and gymnastics are all part of the curriculum and a lovely outdoor area means that many activities can take place in the fresh air.

St Mary’s offers everything to stimulate the developing child: the right atmosphere for growing minds, with small class sizes, music and drama rooms, and up-to-date ICT facilities. An emphasis is placed on both Literacy and Numeracy, through the appreciation and use of English and the understanding and enjoyment of arithmetic.

There are plenty of extra-curricular activities, including music, sport, chess, visits to local and regional museums, theatres and other educational facilities. Together, these activities stimulate and challenge young pupils, helping them to live and work together.

Visit www.stmarysindependent school.co.uk for more details.

Moyles Court School Moyles Court School Nursery and pre-school early year’s team is made up of highly qualified professionals whose aim is to provide a happy, safe and secure experience for all children.

The play enriched curriculum is tailored to the individual child’s needs, which provide the foundations for lifelong learning.

Play is an essential tool for learning, which is encouraged through the excellent learning environment. They also have access to a safe and secure outdoor area, with shelter for free flow in all-weather types and the added benefit of allotments and woodland for the children to explore. www.moylescourt.co.uk

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Help your child to manage their feelings

By Jane Rogers Recognising and understanding complex feelings in ourselves and others, and being able to deal with them in a healthy way, not bottling things up, exploding with anger or descending into depression etc. is known as emotional intelligence. Teaching your child to identify their feelings, is the first step to managing them, and can have a positive effect and help to change negative behaviour.

A good way of doing this is to use reflective listening.

• •

Follow these steps: • • • • •

‘Is there anything you could do to feel better?’

‘Would you like some help with solving the problem?’

So next time you find yourself about to say ‘Don’t make such a big deal out of it,’ or ‘Cheer up it’s not that bad,’ or ‘Calm down’, or ‘Go to your room,’ try using some Reflective listening instead, it really can help.

Listen for the feelings behind the words.

Accept that your child feels this way.

Reflect back what you are hearing.

Show that you understand.

Support your child to problem solve if you can.

Reflecting back to your child what you are hearing: ‘You seem angry/upset,’ and showing that you understand and empathise: ‘It must be disappointing, annoying, frustrating’ etc. can really help them to feel validated. So often as parents we say things like ‘Don’t make such a fuss’ or ‘It’s not that bad, or ‘I’m sure you will be fine,’ and then wonder why we don’t get the response we want.

Jane Rogers is a parenting expert and founder of The Cambridge Parent Coach. Her two short parenting books: ‘How to encourage good behaviour so you can enjoy your children’ and ‘How to use positive discipline to improve your child’s behaviour’ are available on Amazon.

When you have really listened and empathized with your child, it can sometimes be a good idea to ask a moving on question:

Visit www.thecambridgeparentcoach. com for more information.

•

‘What do you think would help?’

The Gregg Preparatory School

Registered charity number 1153487 (England and Wales) SC046840 (Scotland). Company limited by guarantee number 08570737.

An independent day school for boys and girls aged 3-11yrs

Open Morning

9.30am - 12noon

Thursday 1st March 2018 We are also happy to show you our lovely school during the school week. If you would like to organise a tour, please call the school office on 023 8055 7352

www.stwinifreds.southampton.sch.uk 17-19 Winn Road, Southampton SO17 1EJ Tel 023 8055 7352 email: office@stwinifreds.southampton.sch.uk Families Hampshire West 11

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11/12/2017 15:29:15

Winter clubs and classes

Stress Relief

Exercise helps to relieve stress built up by homework, exams and peer pressures.

Here are our ideas for keeping your restless young one on the go – and the good news is you don’t have to force them (or you!) outside:

Trampoline Clubs and Parks

These are popping up all over the country and classes are fun and social. The UK now has over 190 trampoline parks and most offer kids a safe environment to cut loose as well lessons and classes for children from as young as toddlers upwards.

you sign your child up for. Some require significant time commitment. For example, joining a swimming class can involve two or more weekly training sessions, as well as competitions. If your child’s opportunity to have unstructured time for play will go by the wayside, then this is probably not a good thing.

Children these days have much more structured lives than ever before and already often have less unstructured play time that previous generations. Research indicates that unstructured play with minimal adult supervision helps children to learn important social skills, use their imagination, concentrate and be more self-directed.

Indoor Rock Climbing

With the nights closing in and the temperature dropping, the idea of sending your child out on to the football pitch, tennis court or athletics track is not an attractive one. But active after school activities offer children great developmental benefits including:

Improved Academic Performance

Research has found that children from a disadvantaged background who participate in after-school clubs get better results at age 11 than their peers.

Enhanced Socialisation Skills

Making friends with children from outside their school allows children to broaden their social experience, whilst extra-curricular activities at school give children the chance to enjoy a different type of social experience with their school friends and other children in their class.

Better Health and Fitness

According to the National Association of Sport and Physical Education, kids aged 5-12 should exercise for at least 60 minutes each day, and this figure shouldn’t be ignored just because it’s cold outside.

This activity is also growing in popularity across the country with a centre likely to be very close to you. Even the NHS recommends it as an activity that provides unique physical and mental benefits whilst at the same time catering for all ages, fitness levels and abilities. To find a centre visit www.thebmc.co.uk.

Girl Guides and Scouting

Scouting and Girl Guides are experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity.

Why? Because they offer an antidote to the modern world with adventure being at the heart of everything they do. From as young as 6, children can get involved in learning outdoor skills and undertaking leadership qualifications, as well as enjoying camps and residential experiences. Visit www. girlguiding.org.uk or www.scouts.org.uk

Indoor Sports

You can access indoor classes for most outdoors sports such as football, cricket and tennis at leisure centres or school recreation halls. Likewise for toddlers and preschoolers, multi-sport and ball skills classes are often run inside during winter.

How many is too much?

Whilst clubs and classes are important for children, be careful how many activities

Try the newest Olympic sport at Golden Gecko If you’re looking to introduce the kids to an adventurous new sport, want to enjoy a fun family activity or would like an hour of individual climbing, visit Golden Gecko Climbing in Romsey. Whether you have climbing experience or it is your first time, they have climbing to suit every ability.

Their “Go Challenge” Wall is suitable for beginners from 5 years+. It is an exciting roped climb to a height of 6m. The wall is equipped with 10 auto belays and has over 30 routes of varying difficulty to try. supervised and unsupervised sessions range from £12- £15 per person for one hour.

Booking is recommended.

For more experienced climbers, Golden Gecko Climbing offers 28 ropes worth of climbing across the 7m tall Tower and their “Go Challenge” Wall. They also offer 150m² of bouldering up to a maximum height of 4.5m.

Inductions and refreshers are available.

There is also a Half-Term Climbing Experience for 8-16 year olds in the school holidays. For more information visit www. ggclimbing.com, email info@ggclimbing.com or call 01794 590022.

Unlock your child’s potential with our expertly led singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 -18 year olds.

HEDGE END 01489 666323 hedgeend@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/hedgeend

SOUTHAMPTON & EASTLEIGH 01962 771024 southampton@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/southampton

TOTTON 02380 422488 totton@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/totton

WINCHESTER 01794 390601 winchester@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/winchester

Stagecoach Performing Arts is the trading name of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited. Stagecoach Theatre Arts schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach and Creative Courage For Life are registered trademarks of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Limited.

Creative Courage For Life

12 Families Hampshire West

familiesonline.co.uk

Boosting children’s selfesteem and life skills with Perform All children find some things difficult. Some hate speaking out in class, some struggle making friends, and others have so much energy they find it hard to concentrate. Perform is a unique drama school that uses drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s true potential.

“Perform is not a stage school” stresses Perform Producer, Karen. “It teaches life skills through fun drama games and end of term shows. The real aim of the classes is to help children develop the 4Cs: Confidence, Concentration, Coordination and Communication.

“Classes are small and have both a Producer and a Teacher.

Children are offered a free trial and the Producer spends time beforehand with each parent to establish their goals. For instance, speaking more clearly or making eye contact when introduced to someone unfamiliar.”

Producers report back to parents after each class on the focus of the week and answer questions about the progress of individual children.

FREE TRIAL AVAILABLE

“Shy children often come to classes clinging to their parents. I can pretty much guarantee that within 5 or 6 classes, they will run in without waving goodbye” reports Karen.

To book a free trial, visit www.perform.org.uk

Students tread the boards on legendary London stage Students from Stagecoach Performing Arts School Winchester stepped into the spotlight this term when they got the chance to perform at The Shaftesbury Theatre in London’s West End. Stagecoach Performing Arts Winchester Principal, Alison Rann says: “For the children to be able to perform at The Shaftesbury Theatre is a dream come true, whether they dream of being West End stars or they dance, sing and act for fun. Performances like this are a huge confidence booster and there is a great sense of camaraderie amongst the pupils.”

Stagecoach Performing Arts Winchester has been running classes for twenty years and many children have gone on to study and work in Performing Arts from blockbuster films to countless roles in local theatre productions. For more information visit www.stagecoach. co.uk/winchester or call 01794 390601.

Football fun with Little Kickers Little Kickers is the home of pre-school football.

Children are given a positive introduction to sport by teaching high quality football skills in a friendly, fun and pressure-free environment.

There are four different classes tailored specifically to the needs of children between 18 months and seven years of age. It’s the perfect way to ignite an enthusiasm for sport that will stay with them for life.

Contact Gary Darling on 07896 009 651 or email gdarling@ littlekickers.co.uk for details of your local classes.

Your Local Perform Venues Hedge End

Southampton

Lymington

Winchester

Turnpike Pavilion, Hedge End, Southampton, SO30 4RR Drama ages 4 - 7 St Thomas Church Hall, Lymington, SO41 9ND Drama ages 4 - 7 and 7 - 12.

Romsey

United Abbey Reform Church, Romsey, SO51 8ET Drama ages 4 - 7 and 7 - 12.

Highfield Church Centre, Southampton, SO17 1RL Drama ages 4 - 7

Holy Trinity Parish Church, Winchester, SO23 8DG Drama ages 4 - 7 and 7 - 12.

Spring Term Offer - £40 discount when you sign up. Quoting discount code SPRI010318 (4-7 yrs) or SPRP010318 (7-12 yrs).

Expires 1st March 2018

Approved soccer training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years

Local classes at a venue near you

Call 07896009651 For Details Email gdarling@littlekickers.co.uk

Where Learning’s a Ball familiesonline.co.uk

Families Hampshire West 13

Party News

Stagecoach themed parties Creative drama, dance and singing parties run for two hours and are based around a chosen theme, including “Knights and Princesses”, “Super-heroes”, “Pirates and Mermaids” and “Pop Stars”. Whichever theme you choose, our party hosts will make sure it is a truly magical and memorable birthday. You pick the date, time and venue and we can come to you, either a booked venue or your home. Party invitations, balloons, stickers and prizes are included in the party price. Email totton@stagecoach.co.uk for availability and further information.

Candy Room sweet treats Fun-filled birthday parties at Adventure Wonderland With a range of different packages to suit everyone they promise to take stress away from organising that special day.

Children get all day unlimited play at the award winning theme park, a party bag with sweets and a toy, a hot meal or a buffet in a private party room, unlimited squash and an ice-lolly. You can even up upgrade to include a pony ride! With one free adult for every child booked and 10% discount when booked online the parties are great value and start at £5.99pp.

Candy Room based in Eastleigh is a haven of all things sweet. With every sweet you can imagine you’ll never leave disappointed. If American treats are your favourite then have a visit to the store visit, we bring in new stock weekly so there’s always something new to try. They have the largest range of pick n mix around and are also the largest stockist of Jelly Belly in the South East with 60 flavours. They can provide sweet cones to order and have lots of novelty sweets which are great for party bags.

Bring the voucher on page 15 to the store in Market Street, Eastleigh for 20% off pick n mix until the end of

Little Kickers Parties Looking for a well-organised party to make your little ones birthday extra special? Little Kickers offers tailormade, fun filled parties for boys and girls aged 2 - 7 years.

For more details please visit adventurewonderland.co.uk/birthdays

Promote your children’s party business with us in our next issue

You always want to make every childhood celebration significant and memorable for both your little one and your guests, but how? Little Kickers parties are the perfect way of ensuring your child has an amazing experience on their special day.

Call Claire on 07812218331

Golden Gecko Climbing Parties Enjoy exclusive use of our new and exciting Challenge Wall for your birthday celebration. We have 10 auto-belays to challenge your guests with over 30 fun and exciting routes suitable for new and experienced climbers alike. Parties last for two hours with a full hour of climbing on the Challenge Wall (5+ years), followed by party food. Up to 10 children costs £150 + £10 for every additional child. A great value birthday party experience. For further information call 01794 590022 or email: admin@ ggclimbing.com.

14 Families Hampshire West

Working closely with you, your energetic and enthusiastic Little Kickers coach Gary, he will create the perfect package for your child and can even adopt your party theme and create imaginative games based on your child’s favourite things.

Whether your child wants to be a swashbuckling pirate, a shimmering mermaid, a powerful superhero or a superstar footballer, Little Kickers can create some fun games to create the magic.

To book a Little Kickers party or for more information call Gary on 07896 009651 or email gdarling@littlekickers. co.uk and don’t forget to mention Families Magazines when booking.

familiesonline.co.uk

presents

SWEET SHOP

20%

Tel: 023 8064 3060 info@candyroom.co.uk

BRING THIS ADVERT WITH YOU WHEN YOU VISIT THE STORE TO CLAIM YOUR 20% OFF PICK AND MIX

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ORDER ONLINE (USE CODE: 20PICKNMIX)

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Half Term Activities

9 - 19 February Amazing new live science show and hands-on activities this February half term!

Advance online bookings save 10%

01962 863 791 winchestersciencecentre.org

winchestersciencecentre.org

01962 863 791

Wellies and Worms at Manor Farm Based on the book by

LIVE E ON STAG F THIS HAL TERM

Sam McBratney

10th – 18th February

Put on your wellies and splash down to Manor Farm!

With wellie and bug themed activities we won’t let the winter weather spoil our fun.

Follow our wellie trail, try your hand at bug hunting and pond dipping, create some wellie and bug crafts, and test your strength with wellie wanging!

Normal Farm admission charges apply.

12 - 17 Feb NST Campus

Book now: 023 8067 1771 nstheatres.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm

www.hants.gov.uk Families Hampshire West 15

Half term at Beaulieu

Winchester Science Centre

What’s on

MORE

ONLINE

Your guide to family events this January and February. Don’t forget to check with the venue before setting off just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

January & February

familiesonline.co.uk

Until 25 February Game Plan: Board Games rediscovered SeaCity Museum Southampton, SO14 7FY On tour from the V&A Museum of Childhood. Game Plan: Board Games Rediscovered celebrates the joy, excitement and occasional frustration of playing board games.

Adults £8.50, concession £6, family £25 includes SeaCity Museum and Game Plan exhibition.

includes campfire, games, crafts, story and snacks.10am – 11.30am. £5 per child, per session.

Throughout January & February A Winter’s Trail Petworth House and Park West Sussex, GU28 9LR Wrap up warm this season exploring the Pleasure Grounds and discover what winter means to Petworth as a family. 10am – 3.30pm. £3 per trail.

4 January – 9 February Winter I Spy Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA Spot the signs of winter in the gardens, look out for the colourful berries and smell the scented flowers. Daily from 10am.

4 January Wintery Wire Trees Tudor House and Garden Southampton, SO14 2AD Create a wonderful wintry wire tree and decorate it with beads, buttons, sparkly pipe cleaners and much more! Adults stay for this family learning session. Suitable for ages 7+. 10am – 3pm. £7 5 January Frosty Frozen Fun SeaCity Museum Southampton, SO14 7FY Sing some of Disney’s famous Frozen songs, create a wicked wand and a sparkly jar to keep your special frosty spells in. Fancy dress is very much encouraged!

10:30am - 12:30pm or 1:30pm 3:30pm. £6.

16 Families Hampshire West

6 January Locks Heath Indoor Car Boot Sale Lockswood Community Centre SO31 6DX Held on the 1st Saturday of each month. 10am -12.30pm 7 January (Alternate Sundays) Rock Hoppers Club (4 - 7 years) Calshot Activities Centre Fawley, SO45 1BR The main emphasis is on having fun, playing lots of games and achieving challenges on the bouldering walls. 3.45pm - 4.45pm. £12.50 per session, payable each term in advance.

7 January & 4 February Romsey Farmer’s Market Romsey SO51 8ED 10am – 2pm 8 January – 26 March Mini Professors Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ The Mini Professors are passionate about science and in this series of classes, science is made enjoyable for pre-school children in a warm and welcoming environment. Two separate sessions are available for 2-3 year olds and 3-4 year olds. Every class has hands-on experiments and we cover everything from polymers to dinosaurs, maths to tropical rainforests and more. £71.50 per child for the complete series of 11 sessions.

9 January Home Educators Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ Forest School session for children aged 5-9 with parents. Tuesdays 12.30 pm – 2.30 pm. 5 weeks £35.

10 January Little Foresters Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ A woodland session for parents and preschool children age 2+;

11 January Blow away the Cobwebs - A guided walk Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve Swanwick, SO31 7AY Join Reserves staff at Swanwick Lakes for a New Year guided walk around the nature reserve.

10.30am - 12noon. £4 donation per person. Booking required.

11 January Twiglets Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ A woodland session for children aged 3-4 and their parents.

Thursdays 9.30 am – 11.30 am. 5 weeks £35.

13 January Saturday Storytime The Berry Theatre Southampton, SO30 4EJ 10.30am. £3.

13 & 14 January Mighty Minibeasts Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ Meet and handle mighty minibeasts and find out what makes these incredible creatures so special. Free face painting for children to transform themselves into their favourite bug! Free with General Admission. 10am – 5pm.

14 & 28 January Winchester Farmer’s Market High St, Winchester SO23 9BL 9am – 2pm 16 – 20 January Cinderella Presented by Southampton Operatic Society Nuffield Southampton Theatres Southampton, SO17 1TR With stand-out songs, Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella is a magical experience for all ages.

7.30pm (2.30pm and 7.30pm on

Saturday). Tickets from £10.

18 January – 21 January Open Exhibition 2018: Four Seasons Southampton City Art Gallery Commercial Road, SO14 7LP All residents of Hampshire are invited to submit their artwork for this open exhibition, entitled Four Seasons. £10 per work for the first two submissions and £5 per work for a third or fourth submission.

20 January – 15 April Inventions Trail Mottisfont near Romsey, SO51 0LP Mottisfont is renowned for its imaginative outdoor family trails, themed around popular art exhibitions. Its new Inventions Trail around the grounds is packed with fun challenges and activities inspired by the eccentric artworks of Heath Robinson, on show from 20 January to 15 April.

In Mottisfont’s exhibition spaces you’ll also find simple spotter trails for younger children. Known as the Gadget King, Heath Robinson was famous for his hilarious drawings of over-complicated inventions. £1 per trail.

21 & 22 January Dinosaur Weekend Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ Meet an amazing animatronic dinosaur and its offspring as they roam the main exhibition area within the Science Centre (timed appearances) and enjoy handson dinosaur-themed activities throughout the weekend. Free with General Admission. 10am – 5pm.

21 January Beyond the Museum: Old Police Station Tour SeaCity Museum Southampton, SO14 7FY SeaCity Museum was once home to the central police station and familiesonline.co.uk

Game Plan at SeaCity Museum

law courts. Join a guided tour for this unique opportunity to explore areas normally out of bounds including the old courts, padded cells and custody suite. Please bring a torch! 10am – 12.30pm.

Tickets £6 (tour only).

24 January Little Foresters Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ A woodland session for parents and preschool children age 2+; includes campfire, games, crafts, story and snacks. 10am – 11.30am. £5 per child per session.

28 January Tour & Tea Tudor House and Garden Southampton, SO14 2AD Discover more about the wonderful history of the museum that spans over 800 years. Following the tour enjoy a scrumptious cream tea while taking in the beautiful views of the garden. Tour lasts one hour.

Please be aware that this tour includes steep staircases. Booking essential call 02380 834242. 24pm. £7.50.

27 & 28 January DIY Live Science Show with Jon Chase Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ Making use of store cupboard ingredients and household items, award-winning science communicator Jon Chase proves science isn’t limited to high-tech laboratories in this fun demo-led family show. 10am – 5pm.

2 February Open Space The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE A free, behind-the-scenes opportunity to see excerpts of new and exciting theatre. 4pm. Free 2 February First Steps – A Child’s Sleeping Beauty Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE A feast of dance, music, costumes and lots of fun, this is a perfect introduction to ballet. 1pm. £10.

familiesonline.co.uk

3 February Saturday Storytime The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ 10.30am, £3 3 February Jane Austen: Tour and Tea Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS From 10am. Tickets: £12.50 3 February Hare and Tortoise Nuffield Southampton Theatres Southampton, SO17 1TR A delightful adaptation of Aesop’s fable about opposites, time and friendship for children aged 3+.

A funny, tender, award-winning adaptation of the well-loved story, told through the seasons, from bud-bursting spring to snowfalling winter, in a production brimming with music, movement and colour. 11am & 2pm. Tickets £6 3 February Locks Heath Indoor Car Boot Sale Main Hall, Lockswood Community Centre, SO31 6DX Held the 1st Saturday of each month. 10am -12.30pm.

3 February Autism Friendly Chill Out Sessions Woolston Library Southampton, SO19 9EF The meeting room will be set up with low level lighting and with large and portable sensory equipment available. Additionally, comfy bean bags and a range of books will be utilised to create a comfortable calm space for families to use. Families can choose to either stay in or dip in and out of these sessions, as they use the full range of library resources and services elsewhere in the building. 11am – 1pm.

3 & 4 February Live science show: SPACE with Jon Chase Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ Jon Chase, an award-winning science communicator with a passion for aerospace engineering, presents an ‘outof-this-world’ family show about Space! 10am - 5pm.

Winter Trails at Mottisfont - The National Trust

4 February Mum2Mum Market Pavilion on the Park Eastleigh, SO50 9LH A nearly new sale of baby and children’s clothes, toys and accessories. 2pm – 4pm 7 February Little Foresters Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ A woodland session for parents and preschool children age 2+; includes campfire, games, crafts, story and snacks. 10am – 11.30am. £5 per child per session.

9 & 10 February The Wizard of Oz Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB Recommended Age: 5+. 7pm (2.30pm Matinee Sat). Tickets from £13.

10 – 18 February Half Term at Beaulieu Beaulieu Motor Museum New Forest, SO42 7ZN Make your own mascot and top hat, then light up one of the stunning Lalique glass car mascots which form the glittering centrepiece of the display. Follow the quiz trail, handle luxury motoring objects, dress up for a photo opportunity and find out more about the owners and chauffeurs of luxury cars. All activities are included in a general admission ticket to Beaulieu.

Family tickets £49 (if booked online in advance).

10 February – 29 March Hillier Gardens: Spring Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA Look out for the signs of spring in the Gardens. Daily from 10am.

10 & 11 February The Gingerbread Man The Berry Theatre Southampton, SO30 4EJ With live action, great music, brilliant humour for the grownups and mesmerising puppetry for the little ones, this witty adaptation is suitable for everyone aged 3+ 11am & 1pm. Adults £8, children £6.

10 – 18 February Wellies and Worms Manor Farm & Country Park Bursledon, SO31 1BH Put on your wellies and splash down to Manor Farm! With wellie and bug themed activities we won’t let the winter weather spoil our fun. Follow our wellie trail, try your hand at bug hunting and pond dipping, create some wellie and bug crafts, and test your strength with wellie wanging!

Normal Farm admission charges apply.

12 - 17 February Guess How Much I Love You Nuffield Southampton Theatres Southampton, SO17 1TR Watch Little and Big Nutbrown Hare settle down after a bedtime story and re-awaken to discover the delights and colours of each season as they compete to measure their love for each other in this timeless loveable story.

Tickets £12.

12 February Forest Schools Taster Session Testwood Lakes Totton, SO40 3WX Bring your 2-5 year olds for some exploring, discovering, creating, constructing, playing and learning in the woods. Our Forest School programme gives your children a chance to learn and develop outdoors over a structured programme. Each session is flexible, going on the interests of the children. 10am-12noon 12 February Hillier Gardens: Family Stone Age Archaeology Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA Learn about Stone Age life in a carousel of activities. Ages 4 -12 year olds when accompanied by an adult. £12.50 (for 1 child and 1 adult). Booking is essential.

13 February Woodland Story Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ Woodland sessions themed around a book; for children aged 2-5 years with their parents. 10.30 am – 12 noon. £5 per child.

Families Hampshire West 17

14 & 15 February Junior Forest School Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ Forest School Session for children aged 5 – 9 years with their parents. 10 am - 12 noon (Wednesday and Thursday) and 1 pm - 3 pm (Wednesday only). £10 per child per session.

19 February Penguins Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB A unique and engaging theatre and dance show about friendship, fun, identity and the everchanging meaning of family.

Recommended Age: 3+ 1.30pm, 4pm and 6.30pm. Tickets from £9.

14 February Monstersaurus The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ Join Monty as he creates a whole world of wacky inventions and incredible monsters in a show brimming with thrills, spills, magic and mayhem. Great fun for all aged 3+. 11am and 2pm. Adults £8, children £6.

20 & 28 February Little Foresters Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ A woodland session for parents and preschool children age 2+; includes campfire, games, crafts, story and snacks. 10am – 11.30am. £5 per child per session.

15 February Woodland Story Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ Woodland sessions themed around a book; for children aged 2-5 years with their parents.

10.30 am – 12 noon. £5 per child.

16 February Hillier Gardens: Family Bushcraft Pancakes Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA Come and join us to celebrate Pancake Day by cooking your own tasty treats over the campfire! 4 12 years. 10am-12.30pm or 1.30pm -4pm. £12.50 per session (for 1 child and 1 adult).

17 February Saturday Storytime The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ 10.30am. £3.

18 February Sunday Circus School The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Learn new skills in juggling, aerial stunts and acrobatics. Ages 7+.

10am. £8

22 February (6 Weeks) Twiglets Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ A woodland session for children aged 3-4 and their parents.

Thursdays 9.30 am – 11.30 am.

6 weeks £42 23 February Showstopper! The Improvised Musical Nuffield Southampton Theatres Southampton, SO17 1TR Direct from the West End, a brand new musical comedy is created from scratch at each performance of this award-winning show as audience suggestions are transformed on the spot into allsinging, all-dancing productions with hilarious results. 7.30pm.

Tickets £20.

24 February Jack at The Beanstalk Cafe Nuffield Southampton Theatres Southampton, SO17 1TR Hand to Mouth Theatre present a nourishing bean-feast of stories in the Beanstalk Cafe, including the sweet and sour tale of The Old Woman in a Vinegar Bottle, and a tasty take on Jack and the Beanstalk. Watch and giggle as two full-grown adults play with

Until 25 February Game Plan: Board Games Rediscovered SeaCity Museum Southampton, SO14 7FY

their food as they search for the recipe for the perfect story. 11am & 2pm. Tickets £6.

25 February Tour & Tea at Tudor House Tudor House and Garden Southampton, SO14 2AD Discover more about the wonderful history of the museum that spans over 800 years. Following the tour enjoy a scrumptious cream tea while taking in the beautiful views of the garden. Tour lasts one hour.

Please be aware that this tour includes steep staircases. Booking essential. 2pm - 4pm. £7.50.

25 & 26 February Horrible Histories More Best of Barmy Britain Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB Sun 2pm and 4.30pm, Monday 10.30am and 4.30pm. From £16.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust Events Wildlife Watch A club for children aged 5-15 and their families. The various activities help children discover the natural world, learn new skills and work towards Wildlife Watch award schemes. £4 per person.

Woodmill Activity Centre Southampton SO18 2JR 13 January & 10 February 10am-12noon.

Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve Swanwick, SO31 7AY 18 January 6.30pm - 8pm.

3 & 15 February 10.30am - 12noon.

Winnall Moors Winchester, SO23 8DX 20 January 10am - 12noon.

17 February 10am - 12noon.

Testwood Lakes Totton, SO40 3WX 27 January 2pm – 4pm.

24 February 2pm – 4pm.

Wildlife Tots Themed sessions for children aged 2-5 to learn and explore in natural surroundings. Waterproofs and wellies are a must. £4 per person.

Swanwick Lakes Nature Reserve Swanwick, SO31 7AY 9 & 26 January 12noon and 1pm 6 & 23 February 10.30am-12noon and 1pm - 2.30pm.

Testwood Lakes, Totton, SO40 3WX 9 & 26 January 10.30am-12noon 13 & 23 February 10.30am-12noon St Cross Nature Reserve, Winchester, SO23 9SD 15 January 10am – 11.30am.

19 February 10am – 11.30am.

To include your events in our What’s on guide for March and April, email the details to Chloe by 2nd February assistant@familieshampshirewest.co.uk

Vintage inspired knitwear for the modern day baby and toddler

www.etsy.com/shop/emilyandevelyn

On tour from the V&A Museum of Childhood. Game Plan: Board Games Rediscovered celebrates the joy, excitement and occasional frustration of playing board games. This exhibition includes more than 100 objects, featuring some of the most iconic, enthralling and visually striking games from the V&A’s outstanding national collection of board games.

Alongside current family favourites such as Cluedo and Trivial Pursuit, and traditional games like chess, the exhibition will look at historical board games including The Game of the Goose and other beautifully designed games from the 18th and 19th centuries.

You can get ‘hands-on’ throughout the exhibition, learn about different kinds of games and discover what sort of player you are. Adults £8.50, concession £6, family £25 includes SeaCity Museum and Game Plan exhibition. www.seacitymuseum.co.uk 18 Families Hampshire West

familiesonline.co.uk

0-2 YEARS Deep in the Forest Seek & Find Adventure

By Josef Anton & Lucie Bruniellere Abrams RRP £10.99

Created by a French duo with backgrounds in televisual animation and decorative art respectively, there are over 50 animals to find in this beautiful bright and feisty big book full of flaps to lift and names to shout out in triumph. Obviously it’s in English but double points if you know what an anteater is in French.

NEW YEAR BOOK REVIEWS

By Justine Crow Most of the books featured on this time round are a little on the large size and all are most definitely sublimely illustrated, even the titles for older readers. And why not? It seems to me to be short sighted (excuse the slight pun) to ration the visual representation of storytelling - or indeed science and history - just because a child has learned to read. Imagery on paper has a subjective permanence that we all enjoy and often it is the pictures over text that we recall from our own childhood.

Frances Lincoln RRP £12.99

Anova RRP £12.99 This authorillustrator has a knack for bringing natural history to life especially through his books about birds. Here he aims his deft brush at the pre-historic periods that produced the incredibly diverse gigantic reptiles that roamed our planet a gasquillion years ago, yet still absolutely intrigue today’s digital kids.

familiesonline.co.uk

A super-sized price but what value for money this exquisite gift edition is, thanks to the many drawings and facts about the magical bohemia created by Finland’s most famous writer.

Once you develop a love for the Moomintrolls, Snufkin, the Snorkmaiden and Little My, it can’t be shaken off.

9-12 YEARS The Gritterman

A softly penned graphic novel from a musician that speaks of stoicism and patience through many winters and questions the definition of loneliness through the eyes of a dignified man who knows his place in the universe. Thanks to him the traffic travels, pedestrians pass and life goes on.

By Dianne Hofmeyr, illustrated by Jane Ray

By Matt Sewell

Macmillan RRP £35.00

Penguin RRP £17.99

The Glassmaker’s Daughter

Amazing Dinosaurs

By Tove Jansson

By Orlando Weeks

3-5 YEARS

This clever picture book depicts the actual history of glassmaking in Venice through the tale of Daniela, an inconsolable craftsman’s daughter who spends her days staring into the dark depths of the canals in existential torment.

Eschewing her father’s gift of a glass palace, her smile is finally revealed when a young man discovers the secret of making mirrors.

Suddenly, splendidly, the pages explode with splintering glass and the city is rocked with laughter.

The World of Moominvalley

Norse Myths Tales of Odin, Thor & Loki

By Kevin Crossley Holland & Jeffrey Love Walker RRP £18.99

6-8 YEARS 50 Cities of the USA

By Gabrielle Balkan, illustrated by Sol Linero Wide Eyed Books RRP £20.00

I found their previous title 50 States of the USA absolutely compelling and this is no less addictive for its fascinating detail presented in artful bite-sizes.

Along with the more obvious candidates of New York and San Francisco, we learn that as well as the famous Kentucky Derby, Louisville hosts the oldest Shakespeare festival in America; that Memphis as well as being home to Graceland, is where Justin Timberlake was born. And that huckleberries are a real thing and they grow in Boise. So there!

It’s never too soon to point out to the kids that long before Tom Hiddleston stepped into a leather frock and green tights to play Marvel’s movie version of Loki, stories about him and his brother Thor as well as Odin, god of all gods, were captivating listeners as far back as Roman times, and not just from the Viking period. Imagine being a youngster a thousand years ago hearing whirling adventures of sorcery and battles from across the land, passed on by mouth to future generations. How lucky we are now to be able to take images for granted. What a page-turner!

Justine Crow is co-founder of the famous South London bookshop ‘Bookseller Crow on the Hill’ based in Crystal Palace. As well as being a blogger and reviewer, parent of three and qualified swimming teacher, she also co-authored The Little Book of Nits published by Bloomsbury.

Families Hampshire West 19

20 Families Hampshire West

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