Families Hampshire West Nov/Dec 2018 Issue 67

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IN THIS ISSUE Christmas in Hampshire Indoor winter parties Edible Christmas gift ideas What’s on in November & December 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 extraordinary lifestyle

please call Vicki King 07501 433 922

Issue 67 November/December 2018 familiesonline.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West

NEW & IMPROVED HAMBLE SPORTS COMPLEX

Works have commenced and are due for completion by January 2019. These will include: • Brand new fitness suite (massive extension and new kit!)

• New group exercise studios • Refreshed changing area For further information on the developments and to join online visit everyoneactive.com/HelloHamble

£40 OFF + 2 MONTHS FREE DESERVES FANTASTIC FACILITIES

*

Hamble Sports Complex

Satchell Lane, Hamble SO31 4NE

023 8235 2508 * Valid until 31st December 2018. 16+. 1 year annual membership, full cost must be paid in advance. Participating centres only. A joining fee applies and varies by centre. See www.everyoneactive.com/40-pound-off-annual-terms/ for full terms

12681_Hamble_Families Hampshire West_November.indd 1

03/10/2018 14:18

Christmas fun for all!

Saturday 1 December

Come and see Bjorn our life sized animatronic polar bear Shows at 12pm 1.30pm and 3pm.

Saturday 8 December

Marvel at our Giant Penguins Appearances at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm

Saturday 15 December

Granny Turismo

Crazy grannies on their shopping trollies.

Appearances at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm

FACEBOOK.COM/THESWANCENTREEASTLEIGH WWW.SWANSHOPPING.COM

2 Families Hampshire West

The children’s entertainments are not supervised playschemes and parents are requested to stay with their children and join in the fun.

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Editor’s welcome

Issue 67 I Nov/Dec 2018 Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk 07789 882 467 Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk What’s on Chloe Atkinson assistant@familieshampshirewest.co.uk

Now that half term and Halloween is over, the kids (and big kids) can get really excited about Christmas!

We have lots of festive fun to inspire you in this issue, from where to find Santa and holiday activities to edible presents you can make with the kids and all the best Pantomimes to see this season.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas and New Year.

Plus, a huge thanks to everyone who has featured in the magazine this year and to our wonderful schools, nurseries, children’s centres and leisure venues for distirbuting the magazine.

Best wishes Rebecca

Next issue January/February 2019 Booking deadline 1 December 2018 Distribution We distribute 22,000 copies in Winchester, Southampton, The New Forest, Totton, Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford, Hedge End, Bursledon, Netley, Park Gate and all the areas in between.

Published 6 times per year.

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© Families Hampshire West Magazine 2018.

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.

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Contents 4 .

News & Views

6.

Indoor winter parties

8.

Play or structured learning in early years?

10.

Christmas in Hampshire

14.

Where is Santa?

15.

Christmas markets

16.

Edible Christmas gift ideas

17.

What’s on in November & December

Families Hampshire West 3

News & Views A daily mile improves children’s health An initiative to get school children to walk or run a mile every day leads to significant improvements in their health, according to a study.

The Daily Mile scheme was originally the brainchild of a Scottish head teacher who started it in 2012.

Odd socks day for Anti-Bullying Week Anti-Bullying Week runs from 12 to 16 November 2018 and the theme this year is choosing respect over bullying.

The aim of the week is to support schools to help children understand the definition of respect, that bullying is a behavioural choice, that we can respectfully disagree with each other i.e. we don’t have to be best friends or always agree with each other but we do have to show each other respect and that we all need to choose to respect each other, both face to face and online.

Researchers at Stirling University compared the health of children at a primary school taking part in the scheme with those at a school that wasn’t participating.

The children wore accelerometers which recorded how much moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) they were undertaking every day, and for how long they were sedentary. Children who were doing the Daily Mile were significantly healthier than those who were not.

According to the Daily Mile Foundation, more than 3,600 schools worldwide have introduced the initiative, including about 1,200 in England, 770 in Scotland, 210 in Wales, 85 in Northern Ireland and more than 100 in the Republic of Ireland.

More info at www.stir.ac.uk and www.thedailymile.co.uk

Talking to young children about war Remembrance Day on Sunday 11 November will be especially significant as it will mark 100 years since the original agreement to end fighting during the First World War in 1918, also known as Armistice Day. You can expect that there will be a great deal of media coverage given to this significant commemoration and your child may be prompted to ask you questions.

Discussing war with children can be quite difficult. Recognising this, CBeebies has produced a short animation, simply titled ‘Poppies’ to help convey the notion of remembrance in a way that resonates with a young audience.

Students are being encouraged to wear odd socks to school on Monday 12 November to show their support and raise money for a good cause.

Visit www.anti-bullyingalliance. org.uk to get involved.

St George’s Tutors St George’s Tutors was established in 2015 and provides bespoke private tuition to students, schools and businesses for all subjects, levels and ages in Winchester, Romsey, Chandler’s Ford, Southampton, Eastleigh and the New Forest. Whether you are looking for short-term tuition or regular support, email office@ stgeorgestutors.com for more details. Tutors are all experienced, qualified and DBS checked. www.stgeorgestutors.com

It is a really beautiful piece to watch and would be a great way to introduce any discussion of Remembrance Day. The film can be viewed on the CBeebies website at www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies

Fairthorne Manor Nursery – where little people have big adventures If your child enjoys BIG adventures, loves the great outdoors and would enjoy learning through play in a unique woodland setting, then Fairthorne Manor Nursery is the place for them.

A local hidden gem, located near Botley, offering excellent quality childcare for babies aged 4 months up to children aged 5 years, with access to 111 acres of outdoor space, near the River Hamble. Fairthorne Manor Nursery offers a unique and exciting environment for your child’s learning and development.

Children can access a wide range of activities led by an experienced team who place the emphasis on fun. The enthusiastic staff will immerse all children in exciting activities which includes pond dipping, boat trips, archery and even learning fire lighting to name just a few - even the youngest babies don’t miss out and are included on daily trips outside.

If you’d like more information, call 01489 772222, or visit www.ymca-fg.org.

Inspiration for kids at

WINCHESTER DISCOVERY CENTRE

Breastfeeding Support Group La Leche League Southampton

Imagination, creativity and fun

Mondays 10am-12pm (term time only)

crafts | family theatre free exhibitions | story time construction clubs | rhymetime

St James’ Road Methodist Church St James’ Road, Shirley Southampton, SO15 5HE

www/hants.gov.uk/library/wdc box office: 01962 873603 Facebook “f” Logo

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News & Views Children’s foot care important in early years development

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

Foot care is important at all ages, but never more so than during the first few years of your child’s development. Good foot care will keep your child’s feet healthy and help prevent foot problems.

•

Always ensure a trained fitter measures, fits and checks your child’s shoes.

Every shoe is different - there’s no standard fitting - trained fitters use a gauge as a guide and knowledge of the stock to ensure a perfect fit.

Foot growth is sporadic - regular checks are important - we’ll never try to sell you a pair of shoes if your child does not need them.

• •

As a guide Children’s shoes should be checked for size every: 4-6 weeks for infants 0-3 years; feet grow about 3 English shoe sizes in the first year. 6-8 weeks for children 3-4 years; feet grow 2 whole sizes a year, until 5 years old. 10-12 weeks thereafter; on average a size a year but watch out for growth spurts, girls 7-12 years and boys 10-14 years.

WJ French & Son, located in Bedford Place, Southampton aim to give excellent customer service, choice and standard of fitting when choosing your child’s footwear. Visit www. wjfrenchandson.co.uk for more details.

New reception test criticised

editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk or 07789 882467

St George’s Tutors Care Inspire Achieve

Individual Private Tuition Exam Preparation All subjects, levels and ages

SATS 11+ 13+ GCSEs A Levels Modern Foreign Languages Small groups & revision classes Immersion courses

Children who start Reception in September 2020 will be the first group to take the new Reception test, a baseline measure to track pupils’ progress during primary school. It is proposed that it will take place during the first 6 weeks of the autumn term.

Qualified and experienced tutors - DBS checked

office@stgeorgestutors.com

www.stgeorgestutors.com

Guidelines recently released by the governments say the new reception baseline assessment will be short (about 20 minutes), interactive and practical. It will cover language and communication, early mathematics and social and behavioural skills.

Est.2015

However, the proposed test has been criticised in a report written by an expert panel and published by the British Education Research Association. The report’s authors say that the assessment is highly likely to produce unreliable and invalid results, as it fails to recognise that young children develop at different paces and doesn’t adjust for key factors, such as differences in ages and family background.

Add to this the fact that teachers and practitioners are likely to become increasingly pressured to ‘teach to the test’, and it is difficult to see how baseline results will have any real value.

More info at www.bera.ac.uk

Saturday 24th November 2018 10:15am – 12pm

Early entry 10am for NCT members

Woodlands Community College, Minstead Avenue, Harefield, Southampton, SO18 5FW £1.50 per adult (in aid of NCT charity) Card and cash payments No buggies allowed in the hall due to space restrictions www.nct.org.uk/southampton nns.southampton@nct.org.uk https://tinyurl.com/NCT-seller24Nov2018

https://tinyurl.com/NCT-helper24Nov2018

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

All Ages, Levels and Subjects

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Special Needs Support

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Exam Preparation

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Support with Home Schooling

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Holiday and/or Term Time Work

 Initial consultation is free and without obligation

Like to join us as a tutor?

Get in touch today!

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

alex.murray-twinn@homeschooltutoring.co.uk

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on Steff’s breakfasts, brunches & specials of the week! *Offer valid Monday to Friday’s inclusive. From 5th to 30th November 18. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Only with this voucher.

Visit www.fairweathers.co.uk now to find out more and to see our other events, including ‘Tea with Santa’ and our new ‘Selfie with Santa’.

02380 275573

www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk

BUY ONE MEAL GET ONE HALF PRICE*

(est. 1984)

www.fairweathers.co.uk Families Hampshire West 5

Indoor parties for winter The skies might be dull and gloomy but that doesn’t mean your child should miss out on a fabulous birthday party! However, it is probably best to head indoors to avoid a washout, freezing cold kids or limited day light. Here are some ideas from Families Editors and our readers for indoor parties during the winter months.

Rock Climbing Rather than you climbing them, let the party goers climb up all the walls they want at a rock climbing centre. You can usually find one fairly close, and it’s a perfect party place for energetic kids. They offer a variety of climbing structures to choose from, so they’re great for children of all ages. If everyone’s new to the sport, then go for the party package, which typically includes instructions and all the gear to keep them vertical for hours.

Go to the Theatre There are always plenty of holiday plays and puppet show performances during the winter season. Take the party goers out to a matinee, then afterwards, head out for a pizza. Or do the pizza before an evening performance. Make invitations look like a playbill and include autograph books with pens for goody bags – they may come in handy after the show!

Poolside Fun Invite kids to shed their coats, put on their swimsuits, and dive right into some summer-style fun at a wintertime pool party. Most local leisure centres and fitness centres offer great party packages and many now have water flumes which add to the excitement. This option is guaranteed to keep active youngsters fully occupied and catered for in a warm environment.

Cooking up a Storm Kids of all ages will enjoy the mess, the creativity and the tasting involved when put in charge of preparing their own party food. If you are not up for this culinary challenge you will find there are now plenty of very good local providers of cooking parties for kids.

Hit the Ice Take advantage of all the pop up ice rinks that appear in the winter or any permanent indoor rinks that are within striking distance of your home. You may be able to hire one of the teachers at the rink or from a skating club to teach beginners the basics and pros some new tricks. These parties are most appropriate for children who have mastered skating alone. There’s likely to be a minimum age below which children cannot skate unaccompanied by an adult, so you may need to be on the ice with your group of children. Ideally you need to be fairly competent on the ice yourself or bring other adults along to help out. Make sure you give parents appropriate instructions about how to dress their children for the party too.

Laser Action Laser Tag parties are ideal for kids to let loose and enjoy actionpacked fun. Your local centre will usually offer packages including your group’s own area overseen by a marshall.

Disco Time Disco parties are great for older children and can include lots of fun and energetic party games. Keep the furniture from being trampled on by clearing the room first. Alternatively, find a local hall and get in mobile disco with DJ and sit back and watch them practice their moves.

Bounce to a Trampoline Park Trampolining has come a long way. Trampoline parks can be massive with literally acres and acres of trampolines, all interconnected so the kids can bounce all over the place. There are walls they can bounce off, giant foam pits they can dive in to, slam dunk basketball with launch pads and more. Most of them have viewing or ‘relaxing’ areas and cafes so you can keep an eye on the action.

Face Painting Face painting is a great addition to any party and is a great timefiller. The best thing about it is its broad appeal - tots as young as 2 can join in the fun whilst older children will love using the paints on each other, to get into a character or to complement a fancy dress outfit. You can also lay out a few craft tables at which they can be creative. If you don’t have all the kit or the requisite skill then there are plenty of local face paint party entertainers available at reasonable rates.

Entertainers We’re not all cut out to be perfect party hostesses, so if the thought of trying to entertain a bunch of excitable little people fills you with trepidation, an entertainer could be just what you need. When you consider what you’ll spend on add-ons to try and keep the party goers entertained, they usually work out to be fairly cost-effective.

LOVE

? SO DO WE!

That’s why at Families Hampshire West Magazine, we love going the extra mile to give you MORE! MORE readers

matter most to parents.

Families reaches around 40,000 involved parents and carers in Hampshire North.

MORE targeted

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Families has over 75% re-booking rate, so what we do works.

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Families delivers content on the things that

Families distribution is cherry picked to reach the right kind of people.

Families offers great value tailor-made packages & added extras.

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Families is more durable so your ads look great for longer.

If you think we’re on the same page, contact Families us today and see how we can help your business do more. Email Rebecca for details, editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk 6 Families Hampshire West

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Birthday parties at The Race Centre If you’re struggling to find something to do for your child’s next birthday party, then look no further than The Race Centre in Chandler’s Ford. The facility is home to 10 fully linked professional racing simulators, each with full driving controls and whopping 3 metre HD projection screens!

Upon arriving, the group receives a full briefing, including where to find the button for the horn! They then make their way out on track for their practice session, setting their best lap times to form the grid for the racing. When they head out for their races, all 10 drivers are on the grid for the start, normally followed by a spectacular incident at the first corner! After the racing, the top 3 drivers each receive a trophy for their efforts.

Prices start from just £185, and fresh hot pizza can be ordered as an optional addition.

The Race Centre also runs special sessions for Under 18s in the school holidays, just £12 per driver, and adults can drive for half price in these sessions too! Call the venue on 023 8026 9927 for more information or visit www.theracecentre.co.uk

Turn your child’s party into an exciting day to remember at River Park Leisure Centre At River Park Leisure Centre cater for parties for all ages and have a variety of activities available including; Active Adventure – fun in their Ocean Adventure soft play for under 8s. Active Tots – bouncy castle and soft play parties for 1-4 year olds. Footy Party – with games and mini match for over 5s. Kiddi Karts and Bouncy Castle for 5-8 year olds. Learner Pool Party which include playtime with floats and toys for under 8s and Atlantis Party - have a ‘splashing time’ with this exciting and fun party. Take on the challenge of Atlantis and see how many tries before you and your friends can conquer it?

Junior Parties Discounted events for under 18s

Groups from £185

Let us host you a thrilling party! Up to 10 drivers competing head to head in professional race car simulators. simu

Trophies for the top 3 drivers

Minimum height 135cm

Food options available Telemetry printouts

Book your event now!

023 8026 9927

racecontrol@theracecentre.co.uk 17 Central Precinct, Winchester Road, Chandlers Ford, Hampshire. SO53 2GB

To book call 01962 848700 or visit www.riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk.

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Families Hampshire West 7

Play or structured learning in the early years?

By Maxine Henderson

In England, the current Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum stipulates a 50/50 balance between child-centred, play-based learning and adult-led learning.

Over the years there have been individuals who question the system and look to introduce new ideas. For example Liz Truss, a past Education and Childcare Minister, championed the introduction of a French-style ‘structured learning’ approach, with a graduate-led workforce responsible for larger groups of children, and a reduced child-to-carer ratio. Whilst the benefits of a more highly qualified workforce are indisputable, there are other considerations. If teachers are responsible for larger groups then opportunities for vital play-based learning are reduced.

Whilst the ‘structured learning’ model is hailed for its effectiveness in socialising children, teaching them manners, and creating a calm, organised atmosphere, it is not an environment in which young children learn best. And it definitely doesn’t encourage them to be inquisitive, selfmotivated learners.

Children need to practise negotiating with each other and experience problem solving situations, without the direct supervision of an adult. If they are unable to practise these skills in free play, they become too reliant on adults to both intervene for them in social situations and to motivate and inspire them to learn.

A great example of the benefits of playbased learning happened in one of our nursery settings recently. I observed the

children carrying large construction blocks, lengths of fabric, pegs and sticky tape out of the building and realised they were busy working together to construct a range of interestingly shaped homes in the garden, entirely from their own imaginations.

Some children were making signs to indicate who lived where; others were adding connecting tunnels and others still were creating places for everyone to sit and a welcoming atmosphere. It wasn’t all smooth sailing. The children often disagreed about how to construct the dwellings and tempers flared when some children “borrowed” things from one den to improve their own, but the whole process was fascinating to observe. Our carers were on hand to support the children – making sure they were safe and allowing them to negotiate between themselves.

When necessary, they offered suggestions to help the children make decisions, but they provided choices rather than answers. They also asked open questions throughout the process such as: How many pegs have you used? How is this staying up? What does your sign say?

The learning that took place that afternoon was incredible – the children were selfmotivated, interested in the task and invested in a positive outcome. In adultled learning, we often meet resistance, as a child does not want to complete the task in the way that we expect. However, this leads to other teaching opportunities and is equally as important as playbased learning. The two work well in tandem, giving the children opportunities to develop core skills, find their own strengths and become well-rounded individuals. Currently observations are made about a child’s development while they play, helping carers plan structured learning activities relevant to that child’s development.

These observations include the individual interests, abilities and levels of assistance required by each child. This makes it possible to organise interesting, achievable but challenging adult-led activities for each child, taking account of their preferred learning style and developmental level.

8 686Families Hampshire West

During the den-building activity, carers were able to identify which children: •

confidently led the action

•

preferred to watch

•

were interested in creating the tents and dens,

•

disappeared when all the building and mending was done

•

wanted to play in the dens when they were completed, delegating characters to each other and adding furniture to create narratives for their games.

A mixture of adult-led and play-based learning is important for the development of every child. The individual child needs to learn structure and rules, and participate as part of group but they also need time to explore their own interests, likes and dislikes and see where they fit into the whole.

When considering the introduction of new ways of learning for children, it’s important to consider the impact this can have on the individual development of a child, as well as the changes that will need to be made to group learning. For example, increasing the number of children each worker has in their care makes it more difficult for detailed observations to be made about each child and to organise adult-led activities which are appropriate for both the development of individual children and the group. Inevitably, this forces settings to move to a classroom-style environment in which, sadly, children lose vital free-play learning and development opportunities.

Maxine Henderson is a Childcare Expert at Tinies Childcare, a leading childcare specialist with over 30 years’ experience helping families, nurseries and other childcare settings find the right childcare professionals to suit their needs.

Visit www.tinies.com for more information.

familiesonline.co.uk

Exbury GARDENS

1-24 December

TRADITIONAL FAMILY CHRISTMAS EVENTS

winchestersciencecentre.org

& Steam Railway

Send Father Christmas your wishlist on our

Postal Express Plus festive crafts, choir performances and exclusive Winter access to our magical gardens.

For more information visit our website at www.exbury.co.uk or call 023 8089 1203

Sunday Lunch with Santa’s Little Helpers!

Sunday’s in December

SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER

coursefestive festivelunch lunch • Enjoy Enjoy a 3 course inin thethe award winning Morn Hill Brasserie award winning Morn Hill Brasserie Restaurant Restaurant on Sunday 16 December. on Sunday’s throughout December. under 12 12receive receiveaafree free gift.

• All All children children under gift.

• £19.95 £18.00per per adult, £9.00 perchild childunder under12.

12. £10 per For more information and to book please call 01962 0871 942 9188 or 670700 email events@hiwinchester.co.uk

WINCHESTER WINCHESTER

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AA Rosette Award

Families Hampshire West 9

© Mark Beech

Christmas in Hampshire With so many fantastic events happening locally during the festive season, it is difficult to choose which to go to! Here is our guide to all things Christmas including where to find Santa, Christmas markets and fairs, Pantomimes and family shows, ice skating and much more.

Family shows and Pantomimes Billionaire Boy

Southampton Theatres City Tue 20 Nov – Sun 6 Jan Box Office 023 8067 1771 nstheatres.co.uk

Imagine being the wealthiest child in all the land! One-day factory worker Len Spud invents a new loo roll “Bum Fresh - wet on one side, dry on the other”.

The wiping-wonder is an instant hit. Len, and his son Joe, become overnight billionaires, turning their lives upside down.

Whilst Mr Spud spends, spends, spends on fast cars, 100-inch TVs, and lavish gifts for his glamorous new girlfriend, Sapphire Stone, Joe is left to fend for himself. In the unforgiving world of the school playground, things are about to get more complicated as Joe navigates an assault course of school bullies and dangerously inedible canteen food. Can money really buy happiness?

This hilarious new musical is a triumphant treat for the whole family, based on the bestselling book by David Walliams, and presented by the NST team. Age 5+. Tickets from £10.

1 – 24 December Kids’ Christmas Cinema Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Watch your favourite Christmas film in the unique setting of the planetarium. The programme includes Elf, The Polar Express, Arthur Christmas and The Muppets Christmas Carol. 5pm. £5 or £2 with General Admission, advance booking required.

1 – 24 December Reindeer Roundup in Space Planetarium Show Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ The elves have lost Santa’s reindeer and they need your help to find them! This fun presenterled planetarium show will take the audience on a journey through the Solar System in search of Rudolf and his fellow furry friends to help save Christmas.

Included with Santa and the Elves Christmas Experience or £3.50 with General Admission or £6.60 for planetarium show only.

1 December – 6 January Beauty and the Beast Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB When a vain and handsome prince rejects the advances of a wicked witch, she turns him into a hideous beast. Only one thing can save him – someone must fall in love with him before the last petal

falls from an enchanted rose. Can Fairy Fifi bring Belle and the Beast together in time or will the evil Malevolent win the day?

2 December Cinderella The Concorde Club Eastleigh, SO50 9HQ No story captures the imagination of children more than Cinderella.

For two hours (including interval) they will be transported to the home of Baron Hardup where they will meet Cinderella and all her friends. Cinderella is a festive treat for all the family, with dining options available. 1pm. Adults from £12, children from £5.

6 – 9 December The Nutcracker and the Mouse King The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE It is Christmas Eve in the Lindenwood household, and Maria Lindenwood is about to set off on an adventure. The gift of a curious Nutcracker begins her spectacular journey to a world of mouse kings and clockwork castles. In a land full of strange tales, intriguing puzzles and epic battles, Maria must learn to trust her heart, and her head, to discover what is right.

Join us in December for this must see festive adventure. £7 & £9.

Beauty and the Beast

Theatre Royal Winchester Sat 1 Dec - Sun 6 Jan Box Office 01962 840 440 theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk A magical, traditional family pantomime! When a vain and handsome prince rejects the advances of a wicked witch, she turns him into a hideous Beast.

Only one thing can save him someone must fall in love with him before the last petal falls from an enchanted rose. Can Fairy Fifi bring Belle and the Beast together in time, or will the evil Malevolent win the day?

With original songs, hilarious gags and loads of audience participation this is an ideal treat for the whole family.

A number of Access Performances are scheduled: Relaxed Performances - a show with an informal atmosphere to allow people who may need to move around, make a noise or take a break, the chance to see a show without worrying (Wednesday 12 December & Tuesday 1 January). Audio Described Performances with a Touch Tour for visually impaired audiences, where the action stage is narrated through headphones (Sunday

tutti frutti presents

Ages

3+

Ages

3+ This Christmas at The Berry Theatre

This Christmas at The Point

SNOW QUEEN by Mike Kenny 11th - 30th December

Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company presents EASTLEIGH

Tickets: £11 / £9 concessions / £7 school groups

Book now: 023 8065 2333 www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk 10 Families Hampshire West

PUPPET PANTO 15th - 31st December

Tickets: £11 / £9 concessions / £7 school groups

Book now: 023 8065 2333 www.theberrytheatre.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

15 December The Snowman and The Bear and The Piano with Live Orchestra Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS Experience ‘The Snowman’ film in a truly unique way with a live, professional orchestra playing the original score along to the film shown on a large screen. The effect is magical and incredibly moving. 1pm, 3pm & 7.15pm.

Tickets from £23.

13 December – 6 January Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs The Anvil and The Forge Basingstoke, RG21 7QR When the Wicked Queen’s magic mirror declares that Snow White is the fairest in all the land, the evil Queen wants her out of the way. Snow White escapes to the forest where she meets seven little friends. But the Wicked Queen doesn’t give up, and with a poisoned apple in her possession she tracks down Snow White …

Tickets: £28, £27, £24, £19. Relaxed performance Wed 2 Jan, 2pm.

15 – 30 December Snow Queen The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Kai and Gerda have been friends for as long as they could remember, until In a whirl of magic and deception, splinters of a magical broken mirror blow in the wind, freezing hearts and changing everything! As Kai is pulled under the spell of the powerful snow queen of ice and coldness, we follow Gerda’s quest to save her friend and return life to normal. £9 & £11.

13 – 16 December Pocket Panto – Jack and the Beanstalk Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT The tale of Jack and the Beanstalk.

Jack, Dame Trott and Simple Simon will be joined by the usual gang of nonsense characters to defeat the evil giant. Adults £10, children £5.

13 – 30 December Humbug! The Hedgehog Who Couldn’t Sleep Nuffield Southampton Theatres City, Southampton, SO14 7DU A brand new funny and uplifting tale of friendship and belonging with original music and charming characters to entertain children and adults alike. Suitable for ages 2-5yrs. Tickets from £8.

15 – 31 December Puppet Panto The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ Stuff and Nonsense, closes the season with Puppet Panto; the venue’s Christmas show for families. Audiences can expect enchanting storytelling, beautiful set-design and mischievous puppets in this brand new festive production. 11am, 2pm & 7.30pm.

Tickets from £9.

15 December – 6 January Dick Whittington Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE Join our hero Dick Whittington as he seeks fame, fortune and happiness and becomes the Lord Mayor of London. Tickets from £15.

17 December Santa’s Christmas Party Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB Get ready for Santa’s Christmas Party. But this year somebody has been up to mischief… Help get Santa’s Christmas Party back on track in an adventure full of fun, festive songs and party games.

10.30am, 1pm & 4pm. £12.50 18 December The Night Before Christmas Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE 12noon & 3pm. Tickets £15.

23 December Christmas with the Three Billy Goats Gruff Forest Arts Centre New Milton, BH25 6DS Join Garlic Theatre at Forest Arts Centre to see a festive twist on the classic story of the three hungry goats and a grumpy old troll.

Garlic Theatre create a magical world to entrance and delight young and old, with beautifully crafted puppets, live accordion music, storytelling and lots of joining in. 11am & 2.30pm. £7.

Winter at The Berry Theatre

Box Office 023 8065 2333 www.theberrytheatre.co.uk Ever wondered how a cow jumped over the moon? Or why the dish ran away with the spoon? Enjoy Goblin Theatre’s brilliant take on the classic nursery rhyme in Hey Diddle Diddle! (4th Nov).

This winter take a leap of faith with The Berry Youth Theatre and join us for their heartwarming story A Thousand Reasons Not to Fly (16th & 17th Nov).

When a bunch of puppets put on a show, how will they cope when everything goes wrong?!

Join Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company and their company of puppets on a hilarious adventure full of mishaps, comedy and song. Can you help them solve their problems and put on a brilliant show? Our Christmas treat Puppet Panto is seriously playful! (15th-31st Dec).

A Nuffield Southampton Theatres production in association with Belgrade Theatre Coventry

A hilarious new musical for Christmas!

A

THEATRE ROYAL

Illustration © Tony Ross. Lettering of author’s name © Quentin Blake 2010

W I N C H E S T E R production

Illustrations by Mark Beech

A Traditional Pantomime

1 December 2018 6 January 2019

Written & Directed by James Barry Music by Simon Slater

Media partner

Sponsored by

THEATRE ROYAL W IN C H E S T ER familiesonline.co.uk

Supported by

Adapted by Jon Brittain Music by Miranda Cooper and Nick Coler Directed by Luke Sheppard Design by Gabriella Slade

Supported by

Box Office 01962 840 440 theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk

20 Nov – 6 Jan NST City Book now: 023 8067 1771 nstheatres.co.uk

Families Hampshire West 11

Exbury Gardens Postal Express Post your letter to Father Christmas on his very special Postal Express train at Exbury this Winter!

Children and adults of all ages are welcomed to experience our garden winter wonderland by train, sing along to seasonal favourites and watch out for Christmas characters along the way. Visit www.exbury.co.uk for more details.

Magical Christmas at Adventure Wonderland

Winter at The Point, Eastleigh

Give the family a flying start to Christmas with a magic carpet trip to multi-award-winning theme park, Adventure Wonderland.

This winter join The Little Prince (1st Dec) on a journey of growing-up and friendships.

Based on the well-loved story, Protein Dance retells the tale with humour, dance and music. Reconnect with your inner child!

Santa and his helpers will be dropping in to their cosy log cabin to give the kids a fantastic present plus the unmissable live panto, Aladdin, takes flight.

The Point Youth Theatre’s new adaptation of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King (6th-9th Dec) invites audiences to reminisce the magic of opening your first Christmas presents – a must-see festive adventure.

Join Aladdin, the beautiful Princess, the hilarious Widow Twankey and the wicked Abanazar in this pantomime production with stunning costumes, brilliant songs and dance routines, loads of audience interaction and hilarious jokes.

It’s everything you could wish for in a pantomime - genie-ous!

Don’t miss our festive run of Snow Queen by tutti frutti (11th-15th Dec).

Writer Mike Kenny has taken Hans Christian Andersen’s most highly acclaimed story and simplified it into a tale for the young. Perfect for ages 3+ and their families and full of memorable songs, it’s a real Christmas treat for all!

There’s also the massive indoor adventure play centre, Wild Thing! and Nativity Cuddle Corner.

Tickets to visit Santa are available 24, 25 November, 1, 2 and 8, 9 December and every day from 15-23 December. Book now at www.adventurewonderland. co.uk/christmas to avoid disappointment and to get a 10% discount.

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Christmas at Paultons Park Visit Paultons Park from 24 November – 23 December on selected dates and celebrate Christmas in a world of twinkling illumination, seasonal music and a giant musical Christmas tree. Discover magical scenes inside Santa’s Grotto as you join a reindeer on his journey to find Santa in time for Christmas Eve. The return of ‘A Very Merry Christmas Show’ guarantees entertainment for all as you also have the chance to meet Frosty the snowman and friends.

Visit www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk for more information.

Festive Fun at The Furlong Shopping Centre This festive season The Furlong shopping centre in Ringwood will come alive with an array of exciting community events.

Snow Globe Photo Experience - Kick off advent with a visit to the magical giant Snow Globe for a festive family photo on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd December. Plus if you visit on Saturday then Father Christmas will be there for those hilarious photo bomb moments.

Christmas Farmers’ Market and Carols - On Saturday 22nd December the local producers from the Hampshire Farmers’ Market will be holding an extra special festive market. Enjoy yuletide cheer, carols and tastings galore.

Visit the Park’s state-of-the-art 4D Show Street Cinema and sing along with friendly sea creatures in the new underwater adventure film, Deepo. Peppa Pig World will also be transformed as Peppa Pig and George appear wrap up in their winter, giant Christmas trees as well as Santa in his sleigh from the TV series. Selected rides and attractions will also be open.

Visit www.paultonspark.co.uk for further information and to book tickets. Pre-booking essential.

For more details on any of these events visit www.thefurlong.co.uk

‘ Tis the Season ...

...for family fun

Enjoy a fun-filled festive day out for all the family at Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market and Ice Rink!

ICE RINK 17 November 2018 - 2 January 2019 10am - 9pm (last session starts at 8pm) Tickets available from £6.95 (including free skate hire).

Family tickets, parent and toddler sessions and child-friendly skate aids are also available. Book online or call 01962 857 276.

CHRISTMAS MARKET 17 November – 20 December 2018 Sun – Wed, 10.30am – 6.30pm, Thurs – Sat, 10.30am – 8pm winchester-cathedral.org.uk 12 Families Hampshire West

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Winchester Cathedral Market & Ice Rink

Step back in time at Tudor House this Christmas Take a step back in time at Tudor House this Christmas for some festive fun on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 Dec from 10am - 5pm.

Meet their Victorian-costumed staff and tour the house and garden for free. You can also join one of their pre-booked cellar light tours, make a fun holiday craft to take away and complete our festive mini-trail! Father Christmas is scheduled to fly in especially for this weekend. Make sure you book a place to meet him and receive a Christmas gift for a truly magical experience. Some charges will apply for activities, visit www. tudorhouseandgarden.com to find out more.

A short walk from Tudor House, Southampton City Centre will be playing host to a Christmas Festival between 16 Nov - 23 Dec. This free festival is themed around a traditional German market and it will also boast daily entertainment including a ‘Flying Santa’.

Blue Funnel Cruises Christmas parties Cruising along Southampton’s scenic waterways from Town Quay and relax with great company and ever-changing views on one of their superb Christmas Lunch Cruises running from the end of November. A great alternative to an evening party and something a little different than the usual restaurant lunch.

For the evening there are different packages to suit all requirements. There is the more informal Christmas Party Cruise including Reception Drink, Christmas Box Festive Meal and Disco with resident DJ or enjoy a dinner dance with silver service, reception drink, four-course set menu and glass of wine, followed by dancing. Public or private charters offered for groups large and small are also available, catering up to 200 depending on menu choice.

Meals prepared onboard and served by uniformed staff. Visit www.bluefunnel.co.uk for more details or to book. familiesonline.co.uk

If you’re looking for festive family fun then look no further than Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market and Ice Rink.

Located at the heart of Winchester Cathedral’s historic inner close, you’ll be captivated by the sights, sounds and smells of the Christmas Market with tasty treats and Christmas gifts to entice visitors of all ages.

At the centre of the bustling Christmas Market you’ll find Winchester Cathedral’s Ice Rink, an impressive real Ice Rink with a covered roof, guaranteeing a rain-free skate whatever the weather. With child friendly skate aids, family tickets and ‘tiny tots’ sessions available, the Ice Rink is popular with visitors young and old.

Complete your day with a visit to the magnificent Winchester Cathedral where you can enjoy family events throughout the festive period, including the famous Lantern Parade on 29 November. With its towering Christmas tree and traditional carol services, you’ll experience the true joy of Christmas at Winchester Cathedral.

Santa visits Fairweathers Garden Centre Santa visits Steff’s Kitchen every Tuesday and Thursday in December to visit children aged between 3 and 8. With his delightful elf, Santa reads the children a story, helps them to decorate gingerbread and to do some colouring-in. Every child had a delicious afternoon tea with sandwiches and cupcakes and takes home a present from Santa. To book visit www.fairweathers.co.uk This is very popular, book now. Also take advantage of doing some Christmas shopping with a wide range of Christmas decorations and gifts available and a small food hall with lots of tasty treats.

Christmas experience and Ice rink in Southampton Whatever you want in a Christmas experience, you’ll find it in Southampton.

Get your shopping off to a flying start with two shopping centres, quirky independent shops and a retail park right in the city centre. More unique gifts await you at the Christmas Festival with market chalets, outside bars and the ever-popular Flying Santa show every Monday - Saturday at 5pm and 7pm and Sunday at 4pm and 6pm.

Get your skates on at Westquay’s ice rink and take in a panto or Christmas show at Southampton’s outstanding theatres. Top it all off with some festive dining at family friendly restaurants across the city (or get a babysitter and try out places you’d never take the kids). Check out www.southamptonchristmas.com for events, competitions, opening times and loads more Christmas crackers.

Christmas In Lymington This free family event is bursting with festive fun on Friday 23 November from 4-9pm on the High Street, Lymington.

The beautiful Christmas Market will be brimming with delicious food, festive fare and gifts for all ages. There will also be a FREE giant Snow Globe where families and individuals can step inside and pose for pictures in their own winter wonderland photo booth. The Mayor will be switching on the Christmas lights, carols will be sung outside St Thomas Church and Santa will be making an appearance on his Sleigh. Free car parking in all NFDC car parks in Lymington for the whole day!

Santa and his elves are back at Winchester Science Centre and this time they’re joined by Jack and the beanstalk!

The Santa and the Elves Christmas Experience unites the magic of Christmas with the excitement of science, promising a fun-filled family day out. The festive season presents a great opportunity for Winchester Science Centre to capture the imagination of children and spark their curiosity in science. The unique experience includes a live science show inspired by classic children’s tale Jack and the Beanstalk, an elf-led activity, Christmas planetarium show and chance to meet Santa.

Brand new this year is Storytime with Santa, a special experience that has been designed especially with the Science Centre’s youngest visitors in mind.

Preschoolers and their families are invited to join Santa and Magnificent, Santa’s Master Elf, for a Christmas story read by Santa and a live science demonstration from Magnificent.

Christmas entertainment at the Swan Centre The Swan Centre has everything you need to get Christmas off to a great start, with free entertainment during November and December and late night shopping until 7pm from 17-21 December.

The fun starts at 11am on Sat 17 November with the Swan Centre’s Christmas Launch when a host of festive characters including Father Christmas, Frosty, Rudolph and Rockin Robbin will be in the centre with Mrs Christmas and the cheeky elves.

In December come and see Bjorn the life size animatronic polar bear who will be performing outside H&M on Sat 1 December at 12pm 1.30pm and 3pm. Marvel at our giant penguins on Sat 8 December with appearances at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm and watch out for the hilarious Granny Turismo on their shopping trollies on Sat 15 December Appearances at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm.

Families Hampshire West 13

7 & 14 December Storytime with Santa Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ A special event for pre-schoolers and their families. Join Santa and Magnificent, Santa’s Master Elf, for a Christmas story read by Santa and a live science demonstration from Magnificent. £7.50, includes a gift for children.

Where is Santa in Hampshire?

17 November The Swan Centre Christmas Swan Centre, Eastleigh, SO50 5SF Come and see Father Christmas and meet his friends Frosty, Rudolph Rocking Robbin, Mrs Christmas and the cheeky elves.

11am – 4pm.

18 November – 24 December Christmas at Marwell Marwell Wildlife Winchester, SO21 1JH Make your family’s Christmas magical and join the elves in the enchanted world in Marwell Hall. Meet Father Christmas and receive a special gift before posing for a professional family photo.

From 24 November Rotary Club Father Christmas Swan Centre, Eastleigh, SO50 5SF The Rotary Club will be bringing Father Christmas to the Swan Centre every weekend.

24 November – 24 December Christmas at Paultons Park Paultons Park, Romsey, SO51 6AL See page 12 for full details.

30 November, 1, 2, 7, 8 & 9 December Traditional Father Christmas Furzey Gardens

Minstead, SO43 7GL Father Christmas will be waiting to hear children’s wishes in his grotto. Ticket includes access to Furzey Gardens during daylight hours, with a Christmas trail, an early Christmas gift from Father Christmas and the opportunity to listen to some Christmas Stories in the Story Corner. 11am – 7pm. £10.

1 – 23 December Longdown Farm Christmas Barn Longdown Activity Farm Ashurst, SO40 7EH Father Christmas will be returning on his tractor sleigh once again to the Longdown Barn to take up residence in the farmhouse grotto.

See twinkling lights, lots of animals, and the Nativity scene during this festive annual treat.

1 – 24 December Santa and the Elves Christmas Experience Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Santa and the elves are back at Winchester Science Centre and this time they’re joined by Jack and the beanstalk! A Christmas experience like no other with live science show inspired by the classic children’s tale, an elf-led activity, Christmas planetarium show and chance to meet Santa. £14 with General Admission, includes a gift for children.

8 & 9 December Visit Father Christmas Tudor House & Gardens Southampton, SO14 2AD Ho ho ho! Father Christmas is scheduled to fly in for this weekend only. £7 per child. Prebook on 023 8083 4536.

1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 19 & 24 December Santa Specials The Mid Hants Railway Alresford, SO24 9JG See Santa on a magical steam train ride along the scenic Watercress Line. Advanced booking is essential for this popular event.

15, 16, 22 & 23 December Festive Fun and Father Christmas Manor Farm & Country Park Bursledon, SO31 1BH Celebrate the festive season with Christmas activities and crafts.

Visit Santa’s house and climb into his sleigh, take part in our elf training school and hunt for our naughty elf hiding on the farm. At 2.30pm Father Christmas will be visiting the farmhouse for a chat and a sing-song! Write him a letter in our schoolroom and hand it to him in person or post it in our special North Pole post box.

Ice Skating 10 November – 6 January Southampton Ice Skating West Quay South, on The Esplanade Skate with quality skates over a bigger and better ice rink this year. Use the new improved skating aids, making skate the perfect activity for all the family.

Whether you’re a professional, a beginner, or you just love all things Christmas, the smoother ice this year will have you gliding as the Christmas trees and Old City Walls glisten. Check the West Quay website for full details.

17 November – 2 January Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS Enjoy festive, rain-free skating at the heart of Winchester Cathedral’s Christmas Market! New for 2018, a huge Christmas Tree in the centre of the Ice Rink will fill our skaters with festive cheer.

From 10.00am daily (Closed Christmas Day), Last Session starts at 8.00pm. Adults £11, children (2-7) £6.95, children (8-16) £8.95. Other ticket options available

16 & 22 December Santa’s Special Cruise Blue Funnel Southampton, SO14 2AQ Join Santa and his good friend Scotty the Clown for a magical Christmas Cruise. 11:15 am - 12:45 pm or 2.15pm – 3.45pm. Adult £10.95, OAP £10.9, Child £9.95.

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25 November Christmas Market The Brickworks Museum Swanwick, SO31 7HB Lots of festive stalls, live music, children’s activities and, of course, Father Christmas. 11am – 4pm.

Adults £3, children £1.

1 December Southampton Christmas Market Oxford Street, Southampton 10am- 2pm.

Christmas Fairs and Markets 3 November Christmas Fayre Hedge End Methodist Church Southampton, SO30 4AG Lots of festive stalls, Christmas hampers, books, games and more.

10am – 2pm.

16 November CET Christmas Fair Beaulieu, New Forest, SO42 7ZN The annual CET Christmas Fair will be raising funds to support the work of the Countryside Education Trust. There will be a variety of stalls offering stocking fillers and gifts. Stalls will include produce, books, cakes, accessories, homemade preserves, antiques, jewellery, bottles, handbags, men’s gifts, gifts for garden and home, clothes, shoes and more.

16 November – 23 December Southampton Christmas Festival and Christmas Market Above Bar Pedestrian Precinct Southampton The Southampton Christmas Market features a traditional German market operated by internationally renowned WELA Märkte featuring totally unique, individually designed alpine chalets with traditional German fayre.

17 November – 20 December Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS Recognised as one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe because of its unique location, high-quality exhibitors and bustling atmosphere.

1 December Ginchester Christmas Market The Great Hall Winchester, SO23 8UJ One for parents! The Ginchester Christmas Market is a celebration of diverse spirits, local and craft, from gin to whiskey, and vodka to rum. 12 -2.30pm or 3.-5.30pm. £15.

1 December Crafty Women Christmas Fair Winchester Guildhall Winchester, SO23 9GH A Christmas gift fair offering a wide range of high-quality handmade gifts for Christmas.

10am – 4pm.

Lyndhurst, SO43 7NY A range of exciting stalls, demonstrations, activities and more. Free entry. 10am – 4pm.

16 December Christmas Fair Colden Common Community Centre, Colden Common, SO21 1UU Browse the stalls featuring books, knitted and crocheted items, sweets, chocolate, cards, jewellery, toys, glitter tattoos, Christmas gifts. 11am – 3pm.

23 December Romsey Christmas Market Romsey 10am- 2pm.

Light Switch On

5 December Craft and Gift Market Winchester Guildhall Winchester, SO23 9GH A Christmas gift and craft market.

10am – 4pm.

16 December A Taste of Christmas Chocolate & Sweet Fair Lyndhurst Community Centre

17 November Eastleigh’s Christmas Lights Switch-On and Fireworks Eastleigh Town Centre Upper Market Street, SO50 9FF Santa Claus will take time out from the North Pole to help us switch on the yuletide lights display, inspired by snowflakes and stars, after a day of fun and festivities.

11am – 7pm.

Festive Fun

WIN a family ticket for Winchester Cathedral’s famous Ice Rink!

To be in with a chance of winning, go to our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ familieshampshirewest and like the post pinned to the top of our page and comment with your answer to this question:

at the

When is the Winchester Cathedral Lantern Parade?

Farm!

Weekends in December

Closing date for entry is 30 November.

Terms and conditions apply: The editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Entry is limited to one per person. No cash alternative is offered.

Starting Saturday 1

Celebrate Christmas at the Farm* To find out more, visit our website. www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm “I will be at the Farm 15, 16, 22 and 23 December.”

psst… Father Christmas will be joining you for photos on Saturday

* Normal farm admission charges apply.

SNOW GLOBE PHOTO EXPERIENCE AT THE FURLONG SHOPPING CENTRE, RINGWOOD SATURDAY 1ST & SUNDAY 2ND DECEMBER, 10AM - 4PM

Have your festive family photo taken in our giant Snow Globe.

FIND US JUST OFF THE A31, RINGWOOD

THEFURLONG.CO.UK

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10/10/2018 10:21

Edible

Christmas Gift Ideas

Christmas gifts don’t have to be expensive and you can have lots of fun making foodie gifts for your friends and family. Here are a few quick, easy and delicious ideas for you to make with your children.

Cheese Palmiers These quick and easy cheesy biscuits taste delicious and are great as a gift if you pop them in a little box.

Snowballs

Christmas cookies in a jar

You will need:

Everyone loves chocolate and these little snowball shaped truffles are great as a Christmas themed treat.

This is a lovely gift as the jar can be used again and it’s full of yummy, Christmassy biscuits too.

• •

You will need:

You will need:

• • • • •

• • • • • • • • • •

2 tbsp double cream 200g good white chocolate, chopped Half tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp desiccated coconut Mini cake cases

Method: Put the chocolate pieces in a pudding basin and set it over a pan of hot water, with the double cream. Bring to a simmer and then turn the heat down low. You’ll need to supervise your child at this stage, as steam can burn. Stir with a wooden spoon until the chocolate has melted into the cream. Add the vanilla, take off the heat and chill for one hour.

It should then be firm but still loose enough to work with.

With a teaspoon, each take a small amount of the chocolate paste and roll it in a ball between your palms. Then roll it in the coconut and you have little snowball shaped truffles. Place each completed one inside a mini cake case.

Pop some inside a jam jar to give as a gift and add little playful touches such as tiny robins and Christmas trees that you use as cake decorations.

16 Families Hampshire West

250g soft butter or margarine 140g caster sugar 1 egg 2 tsp vanilla extract 300g plain flour Quarter tsp ground cinnamon Tiny pinch of ground star anise Quarter tsp nutmeg Large Kilner jar Ribbon and decorations

Packet of ready made puff pastry 100g cheese of your choice – gruyere or cheddar, or experiment with the different colours of white Cheshire, Red Leicester and yellow Cheddar.

Method: Place the pastry flat on a floured baking tray.

Grate the cheese on the large side of the grate so it’s not too fine, then help your child scatter it evenly across the pastry.

Next, get your child to roll the pastry up from each end, so that the rolls meet in the middle.

Press it all down lightly.

To decorate:

With a knife that’s not too sharp, your child can cut slices through the pastry, about 0.5 cm wide. You’ll get quite a few out of the pastry.

• • •

Place each on its side on a baking tray, leaving plenty of room as they will expand as they cook.

Icing sugar Water Lemon juice

Method: Cream together the butter and sugar, then add the yolk from the egg and the vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and keep mixing until it forms a ball of dough. Kids can do this with their hands.

Next, roll the dough out of a floured surface and use a variety of Christmas cookie cutters to make the shapes – stars, diamonds and hearts are all good. Bake for 12-15 minutes (gas 4, 190 C 375 F).

Place in a hot oven (200 C, 400 F Gas 6) for 10-12 minutes until golden.

Leave to cool. To turn these into a lovely gift, take a box from an old packet of biscuits or crackers, cut off the top and cover the box with Christmas paper. Place the Palmiers inside laid one on top of each other at an angle. Finally, cover the top with clear plastic or cling film, then add a pretty ribbon or bow on top. familiesonline.co.uk

What’s on Your essential guide to family events this November & December. We take great care in compiling our events guide, but check with the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

To promote your local event, nearly new sale, theatre shows or community event in the next what’s on guide please email editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk

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Throughout November and December Santa’s Postal Express Exbury Gardens New Forest, SO45 1AZ Weekends only. Weather dependent.10.30am – 3pm daily.

From £4.50 (free for under 3s).

1 – 4 November Live Action Planetarium Show: You Are Here!

Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Don’t miss this exciting new type of family planetarium show which perfectly combines live theatre with an immersive 360˚ full dome experience. £5.50 with General Admission or £8.60 standalone.

3 & 4 November Out of The Hat Nuffield Theatre Southampton, SO17 1TR A story about friendship and true magic. It’s a spectacular theatre experience for all ages-especially 2-8 year olds. Various times. £7.

4 November Hey Diddle Diddle!

The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ A hilarious adventure filled with music and puppetry. Ages 3+.

2pm. Tickets from £6.

4 November Festival of Remembrance The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE This concert will feature music by HMS Collingwood RN Volunteer Band and Portsmouth Military Wives. 2pm. £11.

5, 19 November & 3, 17 December Boogie in The Barn Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT Fun music and movement sessions for under fives. 10.30–

11.30am. £2, additional siblings £1.

5 November – 14 December Winter I Spy Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA Enjoy this self-guided family trail around Hillier Gardens. Normal admission charges also apply.

5 – 10 November Benidorm Live Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE Darren Litten has written an all new set of Alicante escapades for the much-loved cast members for the stage. Ages 12+. From £19.50.

7 – 10 November Singin’ in the Rain Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB Based on the classic MGM film,

it tells the tale of a leading man, a starlet and a leading lady who fears the end of her career in the talkies due to her terrible voice.

8 & 15 November Little Adventurers Mottisfont, near Romsey, SO51 0LP Outdoor learning group for children aged 2-5 years.

10.30–11.30am. £3 per child.

10 November Come and Make an Impression Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP Free day of fun activities and discovery at Southampton City Art Gallery, including painting to music, dressing up, badge making, face painting and more. 11am-3pm.

Free drop-in.

22nd SAILING FROM TOWN QUAY IN SOUTHAMPTON

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Families Hampshire West 17

24 November The Spitfire Sisters The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ The Spitfire Sisters, with their unmistakable vintage styling, will be performing a festive song collection to warm you better than a glass of mulled wine. 7.30pm.

From £12.

10 November Be a Chorister Afternoon Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS A free event to enable boys in school years 2-6 to experience what life could be like as a Cathedral Chorister. Advanced booking is essential.

10 – 25 November (Weekends only) Weekend Science Theme: Weather Winchester Science Centre Winchester, SO21 1HZ Join the team at Winchester Science Centre for weatherthemed activities and live science show. Admission: £11 per person. Planetarium tickets sold separately.

10 November & 8 December Wildlife Watch Group – Families Eling Tide Mill, Totton, SO40 9HD For families with children aged 5 14 years who want to make friends and learn more about nature and the outdoors. Suggested donation £4 per child. 10am – 12noon.

11 November & 9 December Forest Fables and Seaside Stories Forest Arts Centre New Milton, BH25 6DS Travel on imaginary journeys as you delve deep into the forest, adventure to the beach and under the sea, with fun and games guaranteed. Ages 3-7. Tickets can be booked online. 10.30am. £4.

11 November Remembrance Sunday Service Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS Special services to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War, including a Remembrance Sunday Service at 10am followed by Sung Eucharist at 11.30am.

12 & 26 November & 10 December Toddler Time in The Barn Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT Stories, songs and crafts. Lots of fun for under 5s. 10.30– 11.30am. £2, additional siblings £1.

15 November Southampton’s Countdown to Christmas Above Bar, outside Marlands Shopping Centre On-stage family entertainment with panto stars, sing-alongs, local musicians, show performances and the big countdown at 6:30pm followed by Santa’s first flight over the skies of Southampton at 7pm.

16 & 17 November A Thousand Reasons Not to Fly The Berry Theatre Hedge End, SO30 4EJ Written by Daniel Jamieson and performed by an ensemble of talented young people the production explores courage, family and whether there really is more to life than just staying alive.

2pm & 7.30pm. Tickets from £7.

18 Families Hampshire West

24 November – 2 January 2019 The Night Before Christmas Mottisfont, near Romsey, SO51 0LP The house will be adorned with traditional decorations and little mice in secret corners. You’ll find Father Christmas’s sleigh out in the grounds, which you can explore with a festive-themed trail.

Normal admission charges apply.

17 November Big Owls Farm Feed Countryside Education Trust Palace Lane, Beaulieu, SO42 7YG Join us on the farm where we will be helping the farmer feed the animals. Ages 4-6 accompanied by an adult. Booking essential.

10am – 12noon. £6 (£4 members).

17 November Don’t Worry Be Happy The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Fabulous music and exciting choreography will showcase the talents of children from 3 years to young adults. 1.30pm & 6.30pm. £11 & £14.

17 November – 17 December Christmas Tower Tours Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS Experience the best views over Winchester and the Cathedral Christmas Market and Ice Rink from the top of the Cathedral Tower. From 3.30pm on selected dates. £15. Twilight Tours £20.

20 – 24 November Oliver!

The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE With songs including “Pick a Pocket or Two”, “As Long As He Needs Me” and “Consider Yourself” Lionel Bart’s musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist” is a family favourite.

Various times. Tickets £12 & £14.

Friday 23 November Christmas In Lymington High Street, Lymington, SO41 9AA 4 - 9pm.

See page 15 for details.

23 November – 30 December Christmas at Beaulieu Beaulieu, New Forest, SO42 7ZN Experience the new magical, afterdark, illuminated trail through the grounds and gardens of the Beaulieu visitor attraction this Christmas. Normal admission charges apply.

17 – 19 November Opera Engage: Rhonda Rips It Up! Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB An amazing opportunity for 10 – 18 year olds to develop new skills combining composing, singing, acting and designing. 10am – 5pm. £50.

23 & 24 November Winchester Wine Festival The Guildhall Winchester, SO23 9GH The festival will feature hundreds of delicious wines which all visitors can sample for free, from brilliant English wine producers to prestigious global brands via local wine shops and a wide range of quality wine suppliers. Various times. £35.

18 November NCT Nearly New Sale Winchester Guildhall Winchester, SO23 9GH Thousands of pre-loved baby and children’s clothes, toys and equipment will be on sale with top brands at bargain prices. This event supports NCT charity work with new families. 1pm -3pm.

24 November DIY Elf on a Shelf Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO14 7LP Make and decorate your very own elf to create havoc on (and off) the shelf, just in time for December.

Suitable for ages 4yrs+. 10.30am12.30pm or 1.30-3.30pm, £6. Prebook on 023 8083 4536.

18 November The Frog And The Princess Nuffield Southampton Theatres City, Southampton, SO14 7DU The Frog & The Princess is a poignant re-telling of the Brothers Grimm tale that will entertain and delight family audiences. Suitable for ages 3 – 7 years. 11am & 2pm.

Tickets £7.

24 November Story Time The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE A host of fantastical characters will whisk you and your little ones away into the storywood - delighting families with their enchanting tales, silly songs and lively games. 10.30am. £3.

25 November Naomi House Santa Fun Run Southampton Common Southampton, SO15 7NN Take part in a Santa Fun Run raising funds for Naomi House & Jacksplace. The entry fee covers your place, a Santa suit to wear, and a medal. Participants are asked to raise £50. Warm up 9.15am. Adults £20, children £15.

25 November Foxbury Forest School Christmas Special Foxbury, Romsey, SO51 6AQ Join Foxbury Forest School for a special Christmas themed day outdoors in the New Forest. 10am – 12noon. £10, siblings £5.

26 November Parenting Adolescent Teenage Girls The Middle Brook Centre Winchester, SO23 8DQ An evening looking at the key developmental attributes of girls and how parents can stay confident and maintain a good, respectful relationship with their daughters. 7.30pm – 9pm. £10 +booking fee.

27 November Accessible Cinema: Beauty & The Beast The Point Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Emma Watson stars in this live action remake as Belle, a young woman kept in an enchanted castle by a cursed prince. 10.30am. £5.

27 November – 8 December Shrek The Musical Mayflower Theatre Southampton, SO15 1GE Based on the story and characters from the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks Animation film, this hilarious and spectacular production turns the world of fairytales upside down in an all-singing, all-dancing, must-see musical comedy. From £29.50.

29 November Lantern Parade Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS Make your own lantern with Bella Crafts and join a fun family parade starting from the Cathedral and processing around the Outer Close.

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1 December The Little Prince The Point, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Join the Little Prince in this live stage show as he journeys through the exasperating world of grown-ups. 11am & 3pm. £8 & £6.

1 December Animatronic Polar Bear Swan Centre, Eastleigh, SO50 5SF Bjorn, a life sized animatronic polar bear will be appearing in shows at 12pm, 1.30pm and 3pm.

1-24 December Ultimate Advent Various City centre locations, Southampton 24 days, 24 prizes, 24 chances to win a Cruise. Follow us on social to discover where you can enter our daily draws to win incredible prizes worth between £100 and £500. The winner of each draw will be announced live on social the following day and all participants will be entered into the grand prize draw with the chance to win a cruise from Barrhead Travel.

1 – 24 December Hinton’s Christmas Murder Mystery Hinton Ampner near Alresford, SO24 0LA Wander through rooms dressed in sparkling vintage decorations and stunning floral arrangements to find out ‘who done it’, with the help of Inspector Grey. Outside you’ll find a traditional sweet shop and festive activities for kids. Adults £2, children £1.

1-24 December Family Panto Trail Southampton City Centre Take your family on an adventure around the city centre this Christmas, collecting clues before finishing at the Mayflower Theatre to receive your reward.

2 December Naomi House Santa Fun Run Winchester Guildhall Winchester City Centre Take part in a Santa Fun Run raising funds for Naomi House & Jacksplace. The entry fee covers your place, a Santa suit to wear, and a medal. Participants are asked to raise £50.Warm up 9.15am. Entry fees adults £20, children £15.

2 December Santa’s Christmas Party Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT Enjoy the most Christmassy Christmas show ever, with fun, festive songs and party games.

After the show, each child gets the chance to receive a special present from Father Christmas.

11am & 1.30pm. £10.50.

2 December Festive Foxbury Tree Foxbury East Wellow, Romsey, SO51 6AQ Help the New Forest rangers on a community tree-planting day.

Turn up anytime between 10am 3pm, park in Half Moon car park and follow the blue arrows to the planting site.

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3-19 December A Festive Feeling City centre locations Southampton Children from 13 different Southampton schools will entertain shoppers with Christmas songs. Weekdays 5-6:30pm.

4 – 6 December Christmas Wreath Workshop Lepe Country Park Lepe, Exbury, SO45 1AD Make a beautiful oasis wreath using materials from around the park. This event lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, meet at the Lepe classroom. Various times. £12.

7 December Christmas Door Wreath Workshop Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA Join Sir Harold Hillier Gardens’ Head Gardener and learn how to produce a beautiful natural Christmas floral door wreath. 10am & 1.30pm. £40pp including all materials, refreshments and lunch.

Booking is essential.

8, 15 & 22 December Christmas Canoe Paddle New Forest Activities Beaulieu, SO42 7YF Spend 90 minutes exploring the stunning river as part of your guided tour whilst keeping an eye out for Santa along the way. Your children’s Christmas will be made extra special with gifts from Santa, handpicked by Santa’s elves.

8 December Giant Penguins Swan Centre, Eastleigh, SO50 5SF Meet some adorable giant penguins. Appearances at 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm.

8 & 9 December Cellar Light Tour Tudor House & Gardens Southampton, SO14 2AD Limited tickets available. Be enchanted in our magical cellar light tour to discover festive stories of Christmas past. 11am, 2pm or 3pm. £2 Adult, £1.50 Child.

Pre-book on 023 8083 4536.

8 & 9 December Festive Fun Manor Farm Bursledon, SO31 1BH Celebrate the festive season with Christmas activities and crafts.

Visit Santa’s house and climb into his sleigh, take part in our elf training school and hunt for our naughty elf hiding on the farm.

Normal admission charges apply.

9 December Totton Santa Fun Run The Empire Hall, Totton, SO40 3PY This is Totton’s third Santa Run, a 2.5km dash around Totton dressed in Santa suits, complete with decorated pushchair and festive dog competition.

10 December Art Club Forest Arts Centre New Milton BH25 6DS For pupils in school Y1 and Y2, Mini Art is a great opportunity for young artists to be creative, get

messy and have fun. 4.15pm.

For pupils in school years 3-6.

5.30–6.30pm. Contact centre for availability.

12 December Magic Lantern Show Eling Tide Mill Totton, SO40 9HD A special thirty-minute show for families. Experience the magic of a Victorian-style pre-Christmas treat. 6pm. Tickets £5.

13 December Rumpelstiltskin Forest Arts Centre New Milton BH25 6DS The Miller’s daughter is in a pickle, thanks to her father and his silly promise. 7.30pm. Tickets from £7.

14 December Cathedral Christmas Concert Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS The Cathedral’s annual Christmas Concert returns with festive music and carols from Winchester Cathedral Choir. 7pm.

15 December Christmas Chocolate Workshop Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA Make your own Christmas chocolates with Chocolate Craft.

10am–12noon or 2–4pm. Booking is essential.

15 December Granny Turismo Swan Centre, Eastleigh, SO50 5SF See the hilarious Granny Turismo on their shopping trollies. 11.30am 1pm and 2.30pm.

15 & 16 December Christmas Lantern Tour Tudor House & Gardens Southampton, SO14 2AD Exploring the sights, smells and tastes of historic Southampton by visiting the city’s hidden vaults.

Meet outside Tudor House in St Michael’s Square. This is an outside walking activity. Please bring torches with you. 7-8.45pm. £8 (£7 concessions) Pre-book on 023 8083 4536.

15 December – 6 January 2019 Family Christmas Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA Bring the family to Sir Harold Hillier Gardens this winter for a festive Christmas adventure. £2.50pp.

16 December Christmas Wreaths Workshop Crafty Bug Cafe Southampton, SO19 7GQ Use the metal frames and bundle of supplies to make a stunning Christmas wreath. All the supplies, tools, templates and examples you could possibly need will be there for you. 7–9pm. £9 (includes all the supplies you need).

16 December Santa Family Disco DoubleTree by Hilton Southampton Southampton, SO16 3RB A festive three course menu will be served, with a special visit from ‘Santa. Lunch will be followed by a children’s disco. Adults £20,

children £10, under 5’s eat for free.

Pre-booking is required. 12 noon – 5.30pm 20 December Toddler Time – Penguin Placemats SeaCity Museum Southampton, SO14 7FY Listen to a story and create a wonderful wintry penguin landscape fit to eat your dinner off! Suitable for ages 16months5years. 10.30-11.30am. £4. Prebook on 023 8083 4536 21 December Christmas Story-Telling Winchester Cathedral Winchester, SO23 9LS Join us in the Cathedral for 30 minutes of festive creative fun and to hear the story of the first Christmas. 11.30am with a simple craft activity to take away, followed by the story and will be finished by 12noon.

22 – 26 December Eastleigh Lakeside Railway Mince Pie Special Lakeside Country Park Eastleigh, SO50 5PE See the festively decorated station along with the sound of jolly Christmas tunes. The train service will run at normal times and fares, but with a mince pie as an extra treat! Normacharges apply.

22 December – 2 January Family Christmas Trail Lepe Country Park Exbury, SO45 1AD Pick up a trail card from park reception anytime between 10am - 3pm and return with the correct answers to claim your prize. 10am3pm. £2 per child.

22 December – 6 January Victorian Christmas Beaulieu, New Forest, SO42 7ZN Take part in some Christmas crafts, visit the Victorian Kitchen, pose alongside the giant gingerbread house, join in with some Carol singing and embark on a Christmas trail. Normal admission charges apply.

26 & 27 December Christmas Leave on the Watercress Line Mid Hants Railway Alresford, SO24 9JG The Watercress Line invites you to join civilian and military re-enactors and experience the atmosphere of a WWII Christmas on the railway. 9.30am – 5pm.

Adults £17, children (2-16yrs) £9, children under 2 years free.

27 December Winter Wonderland Crafts St Barbe Museum Lymington, SO41 9BH Enjoy wonderful winter themed crafts for all the family. The craft session is included with museum admission, or £3 per child without admission. Children must be accompanied. No booking necessary.

Families Hampshire West 19

Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 December, 10am-5pm Christmas activities • Festive mini-trail Cellar light tours • Meet Father Christmas** 023 8083 4242/tudorhouseandgarden.com *Small charges apply for activities . **Book early for Father Christmas to avoid disappointment, £7 per child

PLAYTIME IN THE PAST

TOYS FROM SOUTHAMPTON’S MUSEUM COLLECTION From 29 September 2018 Journey back through history and discover popular toys from the past, including some dating back to medieval times, all from our museum collection.

Find us at Bugle Street, Southampton, SO14 2AD Call 023 8083 4242 Image Credit: Pedal Car, 1930s, Maritime & Local History Collection

tudorhouseandgarden.com 20 Families Hampshire West

@TUDORHOUSEANDGARDEN @TUDORHSEGARDEN

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