Families Thames Valley West Nov-Dec 2015

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Thames Valley West November/December 2015 Issue 80 www.familiestvw.co.uk

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PAGE 2

Thames Valley West

11/09/2015 16:45

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

inthisissue

ISSUE 80 • NOV/DEC 2015

Visit us now at www.familiestvw.co.uk

7

News & Views Are We Over-Testing Our Children?

8

School Noticeboard

10

Festive Fabulous

Look and feel your best this season

4

Welcome to a very special festive issue of Families Thames Valley West. Without doubt, Christmas is my very favourite time of year. I always try and see the positive aspects of the colder weather and shorter, darker days: opportunities to snuggle up in front of the fire with the family, eat plenty of ‘comfort food‘, get cosy in warm, soft jumpers and of course all the great telly that we‘re treated to this time of year. Winter wouldn‘t be the same without my weekly dose of Downton Abbey!

Since becoming a parent, Christmas time has taken on an even more magical quality for me. Now I‘m a lucky enough to be a mum, I think I truly understand the joy of giving. For me, just seeing the sheer wonder and delight on my girls‘ little faces on Christmas morning when they come down to see a mountain of presents and notice that Santa has enjoyed the mince pie and brandy left out for him the night before is the very best gift of all.

Early Years Special 19 What‘s On 12

The pick of the best activities in our region this season

24

Pantomimes

A round up of local Christmas shows

26

Where‘s Santa?

Catch the big man before the big day at a local venue

28

Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide

Editor: Lucy Heather Listings Editor: Sam Cross To advertise: Tel: 0118 974 5398, editor@familiestvw.co.uk Contact us: editor@familiestvw.co.uk Designed by: Graphic Resolutions 01438 871600 Next issue: Jan/Feb – Holidays, Health, New Year Advertising deadline: 1 December

Editor‘s Letter

If you‘re anything like me, you‘ll be tasked with buying Christmas gifts for the whole family. If you‘re stuck for ideas, check out our gift guide for all ages on page 28. And if you‘re dreading the prospect of tackling the postChristmas bulge after weeks of over-indulgence, make sure you read local wellness expert Melina Harrison‘s guide to feeling fabulous this season on page 10.

Our Pantomime Special on page 24 showcases the best Christmas family shows on in our region, and if you‘d like to catch Santa before the Big Day, he‘s busy visiting all sorts of places in Berkshire in the run up to Christmas.

On p26, you can find out where to find him on boats, trains or even down on the farm.

Finally, parents with babies and pre-schoolers won‘t want to miss our Early Years special which includes lots of activities for the Under 5‘s. Take your pick from music and movement, dance and drama, art, swimming and gymnastics, plus story and rhyme times, toy libraries, soft play and much more.

Wishing all our readers, advertisers, distributers and their families a very Happy Christmas!

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Thames Valley West

PAGE 3

News & Views

TV Presenter Andy Day launches his first album for children

New David Lloyd Leisure Centre to open in Newbury A brand new £9.3 million state of the art David Lloyd Leisure centre will open on Monks Lane, Newbury, in December. The club promises to be a great family destination and will provide all weather outdoor tennis courts and indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

David Lloyd Leisure Tennis All Stars junior coaching, accredited by the LTA, will be available to children aged 3-11 years whilst adults can receive instruction from a team of LTA-qualified coaches. The club will also offer a range of activities for children aged 3-11 years old, including tennis, swim and make & create.

To enquire about joining, visit www. davidlloyd.co.uk/newbury or call 0845 129 6751

Andy Day, star of the CBeebies show, ‘Andy‘s Dinosaur Adventures‘ has launched his first album of children‘s songs in collaboration with music producer pals Rob and Dan from Bunkersonix, the team behind many of the CBeebies and CBBC theme tunes. Titled, ‘Who Invited this Lot‘, and performed by Andy and his band, ‘Andy and the Odd Socks‘, the 11 tracks are fantastically creative. Comic influences such as Spike Milligan and the Mighty Boosh are mixed with storytelling classics like Jackanory which play out through a broad range

of musical styles …all finished off with a large dollop of tongue in cheek!

Each song is a mini-story featuring children‘s favourite characters from ‘Battle Robot Rapper‘ to ‘Dinosaur Football Legend Mega Match‘. Guest vocalists include Andy‘s TV co-stars Katy Ashworth and Sid Sloane as well as children from Hotwells Primary School in Bristol.

The album costs £7.99 or 99p a track and is available to buy from iTunes and Andy‘s website, www.andyday.tv. Families Magazines has three copies up for grabs! See our competition on P31 to enter.

Free toys for your local toy library Bizzy Bitz is a relatively new construction toy system. In order to celebrate the launch of their new clear instruction sheets, Bizzy Bitz are donating 100‘s of boxes of 350 pieces of their building blocks to Toy Libraries around the country. If you are a mum who borrows toys from a Toy Library and would like your child to have a play with Bizzy Bitz, please ask them to contact info@bizzy-bitz.com to receive a free box.

The Village Montessori Nursery School We are nestled within five acres of meadowland in an area of outstanding natural beauty half-way between Newbury and Reading.

A warm and friendly welcome awaits all visitors, so please call us on 0118 974 4643, info@montessorinursery.org.uk; visit our website our www.montessorinursery.org.uk Follow us on Facebook.

The Village Montessori Nursery School, Cock Lane, Bradfield Southend, Berkshire RG7 6HW

PAGE 4

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

News & Views

Artspiration launches Advanced Group for young artist talent Artspiration have launched a new group with sessions in Reading and Maidenhead for budding young artists from 13-18 years.

Children will explore and learn new skills with professionals including John Byrne, Julia Simmonds, Inge du Plessis and Jonathan Newey. These new classes offer a brilliant opportunity for young artists to hone and develop their skills and add some creative works to their portfolios. For more information see www.artspiration.co.uk

The Rock Project – Fun Guaranteed!

A new rock and pop school in 4 locations across Reading is helping budding musicians learn to perform like their idols.

The Rock Project, for young people aged between seven and 18, sees professional, working musicians help young people develop as guitarists, drummers or vocalists and play in a band. The first half of each session includes an hour of professional tuition in groups of up to five students. The second half is a more social hour where the students get together to perform the songs they have been learning in groups and other music based activities.

The Rock Project takes place every Monday in Thatcham, Tuesday in Wargrave, Wednesday in Burghfield and Thursday in Tilehurst. Each session lasts for two hours. The junior (7-11) sessions start at 4:30pm and the session for senior students (12-18) begins at 6:30pm. The Reading schools are one of more than 40 Rock Projects across the UK. The Rock Project, which opened in September, has already attracted a lot of interest and with just a few spaces left is offering free taster sessions for students at its after-school sessions.

To book your child a place either email reading@therockproject.com or call 0118 334 5562.

Dream comes true for Steppin Out star 13 year old Amy Wilding who attends the Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow Theatre School in Reading, was thrilled to meet one of her West End idols Kerry Ellis in September. Kerry is famous for playing lead roles in London and on Broadway in We Will Rock You, Les Miserables and Wicked. Amy won the competition run by Principal Shelley Fitzgibbon and was treated to an acting lesson and song workshop with the star.

Shelley said, ‘Amy was absolutely ecstatic after meeting Kerry. It was such a joy to offer such a wonderful experience for one of my students.‘ Steppin Out offers classes from 3.5yrs- adult in Street Dance, Tap, Musical Theatre, Singing, Drama and an adult rock diva choir that opened last week. They are offering a FREE taster to local children for the last two weekends of September.

Call Shelley on 01189 774258 or e mail shelley@steppinoutstars.co.uk to book your place. Spaces are limited and are on a strictly first come first served basis or visit the website on www.steppinoutstars.co.uk

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Thames Valley West

PAGE 5

News & Views

Brain Tumour Research launches fourth Centre of Excellence Award winning maths and words toys from Tiggly have arrived New York based startup Tiggly produces award winning physical smart toys that are now available to buy in the UK. Tiggly toys interact with a suite of tablet learning apps and their innovative learning systems change the way children learn, combining physical and digital play whilst making them the thinkers and creators they aspire to be.

Founded by two Harvard MBAs and a Columbia Ph.D. in childhood development, Tiggly has set out with the ambitious goal of changing how preschoolers learn. Tiggly learning toys combine the best of classic, physical play and bring them into the explosively creative world of digital apps.

The apps have proved a favourite with pre-schoolers, with Tiggly Tales and Tiggly Chef apps ranked number 1 in the app store. Tiggly Shapes ,Math, and Words have won 16 major honour awards and are currently available in over 20 countries, 5 continents, and 10 languages, since they were launched.

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Thames Valley West

UK brain tumour awareness charity Brain Tumour Research has opened a new research centre in London in a ground-breaking partnership with Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust. The centre is the fourth of seven centres that the charity hopes to open in the next few years. Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40 in the UK and unlike most other cancers, incidences and deaths from brain tumours are increasing, yet brain tumour research receives just 1% of the national council research spend, making community fundraising vital. Brain Tumour Research is dedicated to funding vital research whilst challenging the government and larger cancer charities to invest more into researching brain tumours. For more information visit www.braintumourresearch.org

Car smoking ban prompts more parents to quit If you haven‘t already given up the dreaded weed, there‘s never been a better time to make the decision to leave nicotine behind for good. In a move designed to help protect children and young people from the dangers of second hand smoke, the UK government has now banned smoking in cars with anyone under 18. Both the driver and the smoker could face fines of £50. Many ex-smokers credit hypnotherapy as the solution that has helped them quit and stay off the cigarettes for good. Hypnotherapist Malminder Gill boasts an eighty percent success rate and has launched a range of audiobook hypnotherapy sessions with Guruandgo.com which you can listen to in the comfort of your own home. Priced at just £34.00, this is half the average weekly smoking allowance, and £1 of your purchase goes to Cancer Research UK. For more information visit www.guruandgo.com

My BuddyTag prevents the panic of lost children If you are a parent you have no doubt experienced that heart stopping feeling of panic when you lose sight of your child, even for a few seconds. One enterprising mum who experienced losing her 3 year old on holiday has come up with a new gadget that will help to alleviate parents‘ fear of going to a crowded theme park, shopping centre, airport or event. The BuddyTag is a simple device that uses Bluetooth technology to keep track of the child wearing it and updates their parent on their smartphone app. The distance can be set so that if the child moves a certain distance away from the parent a notification is immediately sent and an alarm can be triggered. Features include a personal ID in the wristband where you write your child‘s name and contact number to help you reunite, and a panic button a child can use in case they can‘t find you or have an emergency. The BuddyTag is available from Amazon, Kiddicare.com and LittlePumpkin.co.uk. The free app is currently available on iTunes for most smartphones.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Education

Are We Over-Testing Our Children?

By Carey Ann Dodah

Chomnancofee – Fotol ia.com

The UK‘s education system has traditionally been far less testcentric than its counterparts in countries such as the USA, where last year saw children actively boycotting and protesting against the test-culture. In the USA, children are tested annually and these tests dictate whether they progress into the next year or are held back. Children feel a lot of pressure to do well. Parents want them to do well, but feel simultaneously concerned and disappointed at the way in which creative and life-skills can be side-lined in their children‘s academic lives.

In the UK, the move towards the new curriculum and introduction of new assessments such as the the Baseline Assessment tests, Phonics Screening check, and KS2 SATS including the new SPAG test, are disturbing many parents, who are concerned that too much emphasis is being placed on teaching children to pass tests.

So what exactly are these tests?

The Baseline Test 1:1 formal test that will take place within a few weeks of a child starting school. It focusses on a child‘s literacy and numeracy to generate a ‘baseline‘ against which to measure progress to Key Stage One and Two. The baseline test has received a lot of criticism. However, if delivered in the right way, a child will not be aware of being assessed and the results will provide valuable data that teachers can use to track a child‘s progress. Looking at the rate of progress each child is making is really positive, as every child is different and learns at a different pace. The test will enable teachers to be recognised for the difference they are making to each individual pupil, rather than getting a whole cohort to one level.

The SPAG Test An English grammar, punctuation and spelling test which assesses a child‘s English skills in four key areas: spelling, punctuation, grammar, and vocabulary. English Reading Test based on reading comprehension of three texts, with a total of 35 to 40 questions of increasing difficulty.

Three Written Maths Tests and a Mental Maths Test The new KS2 SATS will initially see pupils and schools judged on test results, as there is no historical data to evaluate progress for each individual pupil. So the tests will be tough and those sitting them in May 2016 are going to be challenged with material that would previously have been expected of children a year or two older. With this amount of extra material to learn it‘s natural that schools will feel the need to tailor their focus to the test.

The new curriculum set out to provide a creative, collaborative experience for children in both maths and English but the KS2 SATS tests focus on the mechanics of maths and English and don‘t include any creative problem solving activities in maths or any opportunities for children to demonstrate their skills in creative writing. The danger here is that the narrowness of the tests could flow into a narrow focus of learning during lessons.

Despite the increase in testing children in the UK, I remain positive that a test-culture like that of the USA will be avoided. It‘s vital that the UK education system maintains a balance between creating a love of learning in children and nurturing their creative talents and passions, whilst simultaneously teaching them in a way that enables them to pass tests. The majority of teachers feel similarly and we need to trust in the intention they have to preserve this balance for our children.

Carey Ann Dodah is the Head of Curriculum at Explore Learning, one of the UK‘s leading providers of extra tuition with 117 centres located across the country including East Sheen, Walton Upon Thames, Hampton, Epsom, North Cheam and Hounslow. For details of FREE Explore Learning workshops see page 26. For further information, visit www.explorelearning.co.uk

The Phonics Screening Check Taken by pupils in Year 1, this test is designed to confirm whether pupils have learnt phonic decoding to an appropriate standard. It will identify pupils who need extra help to improve their decoding skills. The check consists of 20 real words and 20 pseudo-words that a pupil reads aloud to the teacher. Pupils must also take the check in Year 2 if they didn‘t meet the required standard in Year 1 or haven‘t taken it before.

KS2 SATS National Curriculum tests which are taken by pupils at age 11 at the end of Key Stage 2. Tests include:

Moreuseducation articles at www.familiestvw.co.uk/education Visit now at www. familiestvw.co.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 7

Education SCHOOL NOTICEBOARD

Free trial session at Explore Learning Explore Learning centres provide maths and English tuition for 5 to 14 year olds of all abilities. The centres are open 7 days a week, meaning Explore can fit into busy family life.

As Explore members, children work with tutors who are great educational role models, enthusiastic about learning and fantastic motivators. Each child has an individualised learning programme, and all Explore courses map to the National Curriculum in England and the Curriculum for Excellence in Scotland.

Find out how your child can benefit from Explore Learning membership today. Book your free trial at www.explorelearning.co.uk

Crosfields welcomes New Headmaster Following the retirement of Jonathan Wansey in September, Crosfields School in Reading welcomed new Headmaster Craig Watson. Craig has a wealth of prep school experience both at The Hall Prep School in Hampstead and for the last eight years as Headmaster of Davenies Prep School in Beaconsfield. He is also an Independent Schools Inspector and a prep school Governor.

At Crosfields, boys and girls are educated imaginatively and a vast range of diverse opportunities exist at the school. Whether it is in the swimming pool, on the sports fields, acting on stage or playing a musical instrument, Crosfields intends to find where the child‘s interests lie and where confidence can be fostered. Crosfields prepares children for a considerable number of day and boarding schools, but also seeks to prepare them for life outside school. It‘s important that girls and boys leave Crosfields knowing how to treat each other, that they can conduct themselves well in different environments and develop the character to respond to whatever life throws at them. Mr Watson would be delighted to show prospective parents around the school. Please contact pa@crosfields.com to arrange a time.

Richard Benyon visits The Cedars School The Cedars School in Aldermaston were delighted to welcome West Berkshire MP Richard Benyon in September. Richard gave a talk to the whole school about his job, the role of an MP, how his life works on a day to day basis and the opportunities and decisions available to voters. The children were delighted by his enthusiasm, kindness and enthralling stories! The older children wrote some beautifully eloquent and humourous letters to thank him for his time and words of wisdom. Comments from the children included: “We loved the story of how you slept in your office,” “You‘re very famous, I‘m part famous too!” and “What have you been doing lately? If you have time, write back and let me know!”

St Josephs shortlisted for two Independent School Awards St Joseph‘s College, Reading has been shortlisted in two categories of the prestigious Times Educational Supplement Independent School Awards.

The school, located near Reading University, is a finalist for both the Financial/Commercial Initiative of the Year and the Marketing Campaign of the Year. The awards are designed to celebrate those making a remarkable contribution to the strategic and financial management of independent schools across the UK. In the Financial/Commercial category, St Joseph‘s is one of just four schools on the shortlist. The selection of St Joseph‘s reflects its radical initiative to restructure the fees, resulting in them becoming up to 30% lower than comparable independent day schools in the local area, whilst at the same time beginning a major programme of capital expenditure. The outcome of the strategy is improved facilities and a significant rise in pupil numbers.

Our new Headmaster, Mr Watson, warmly welcomes you to join us at our forthcoming

OPEN MORNING Tuesday 19th January

9am to 11.30am. Headmaster’s welcome at 9.15am

Visit www.crosfields.com to register online in advance Shinfield Road, Reading, RG2 9BL (0118) 987 1810

PAGE 8

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Education

When friends fall out: how to help your child cope with playground arguments

By Liat Hughes Joshi

out, potentially leaving an awkward feud between the parents (who you‘ll have to see at the school gates for the next however many years!).

If they confront you, and the kids‘ argument was relatively minor, it‘s sensible to suggest ‘let‘s leave the children to sort it out‘, or similar. If goings-on were serious, perhaps say that you would rather the school dealt with it.

Your child is happy at school and has made some good friends. Then the dreaded playground squabble strikes, the tears roll and you‘re stuck as to ways to help…here‘s how.

Relax (a bit): it‘s normal Ask primary school teachers and they‘ll doubtless tell you that kids fall out (and in again) as quickly as a round of Hokey Cokey.

It‘s normal and most squabbles are soon forgotten: kids don‘t bear grudges the way grown-ups tend to. Unfortunately this knowledge won‘t console your heartbroken child much, so…

Reassure, hug and listen Even if it‘ll probably blow over, your child might well feel like their world is collapsing. Give hugs, provide shoulders to cry on and tissues.

Help them to help themselves Once they‘re calmer, instead of providing straight solutions, encourage your child to think through what they could do to resolve this, with guidance from you behind the scenes. If there‘s been a misunderstanding, how could they instigate chat to explain? If the other child is consistently mean to them, who else could they play with instead?

When to speak to the teacher…

Resist the temptation to wade in!

Your parental instincts might urge you to tackle the little blighter concerned, or their parents, but hold back. Wait and see if everything settles by itself.

Confronting the other child isn‘t fair or appropriate. Plus your son or daughter might find it embarrassing if mum or dad piles in to sort their playground problems out.

Proceed with caution with the other parents This is a minefield; many parents will never accept their offspring has done anything wrong. The children will probably make up before the week‘s

If the dispute involved physical violence, becomes persistent, and/ or your child starts not wanting to go to school or is having trouble sleeping, then do raise it with their teacher. They can then keep a closer eye on the children, intervening if necessary. In a busy class of 30, it‘s understandable that they might not be aware of every falling out.

See this as a learning experience There might have been tears but chances are your child will have learnt more about relationships and friendships along the way.

Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including ‘New Old-fashioned Parenting‘ and ‘How to Unplug Your Child‘ (both published by Summersdale) and ‘Raising Children: The Primary Years‘ (Pearson).

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PAGE 9 Thames Valley West 20/07/2015 10:21 am

Health

Feel Festive Fabulous!

It‘s not easy being a mum and juggling many different roles, and with the party season upon us the rounds of office outings, epic shopping trips and entertaining on top of the normal family and work life begins. There‘s a million different reasons to put healthy eating and exercise low on the priority list, so how can you possibly feel your best when Santa arrives? (we‘ll deal with when he‘s gone in the next issue!)

Melina Harrison, owner of The Harrison Clinic asked some of the gorgeously normal ladies she works with how they stay healthy and look great as the silly season approaches, and finally how they avoid too much temptation over the festivities. Here‘s what they had to say: • Jane Greenshields, Osteopath Weekly activity: Up until recently my activity seemed to be moaning about how unhappy I was with my weight which had hit an all time high.

The shock of this news spurred me into action and I signed up to do a 10k run with a group from the clinic. I now run 3 times per week and walk the dog daily. The running is such hard work but when I look back to when I first started I see huge improvements and I feel a lot better for it.

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PAGE 10

Thames Valley West

For me it is just getting outdoors, the UK has some really beautiful and peaceful places to go walking and running and for most of us we really don‘t have to travel far to find them. Get used to being out in the bad weather as well because being in it is never as bad as it looks. Just get your wellies on and splash through the puddles.

At the time of writing this I am just tucking into a delicious peanut butter cupcake made by my colleague so I do feel a bit of a fraud! Having started a calorie controlled diet though, the best tip I have is to cook things from fresh and prepare in advance so there is something lovely to eat when you get in from work. There are surprisingly few calories in things like homemade stews and chillis so you feel satisfied when you have eaten.

I have been using an app on my phone called My Fitness Pal which gives you the calorie count for virtually everything and scans barcodes. This has been invaluable for me and it also allows me to do a food trade off with exercise which really spurs me on (hence allowing myself cupcakes and still managing to lose weight) so I will be using this to help through the festive season. It doesn‘t mean I won‘t eat more, I‘m sure I will but it just makes me aware of what I eat and think a little bit before tucking into seconds.

• Imogen Hall, Acupuncturist Weekly activity: 1 short run mid week 30-40 mins, and 1 long run at the weekend 60-90 mins. Warm up then full stretch at the end helps prevent back pain reoccurring.

Cold and rain shouldn‘t put you off when you plan to go out for a run because you‘re going to have a lovely hot shower when you get back anyway, and you‘ll have earned it!

Have a healthy substitute ready instead of reaching for the chocolate/crisps/ coke. If you really are a chocoholic (like me) eat chocolate with high cocoa content, 75% or more. A little goes a long way, so you have fewer calories.

To avoid the seasonal temptations... I don‘t have enough self discipline to completely avoid the Christmas biscuit box, so I set a limit and stick to it. I feel better when I don‘t fill up on sugar, and I‘m less irritable too.

• Marie, Receptionist Weekly activity: Salsa dancing 3 times a week plus 3 gyms sessions consisting of weights, core and stretching.

Set a goal to hit by the new year instead of waiting till new year to set them.

This will keep those pre-Christmas months easier to manage and you will already be well on your way to starting 2016 on a healthy note.

I always have a stack of protein bars in my kitchen cupboard. OK, they might not taste exactly the same as chocolate or biscuits but they are nutritious and filling and great as a snack.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Health

Melina Harrison and the ladies of The Harrison Clinic, Reading

• Melina Harrison, Clinic Director Weekly activity: Six hours plus of ballroom and Latin dance. 2K runs, stretching and core work as often as I can (daily is my aim) I stay motivated to exercise because I feel so much better when I do! Do I always want to do it ....NO! Is it easy to go out of the house....NO WAY! Does pushing myself hurt....YES! But, I feel strong, energetic, motivated and healthy with daily exercise and the polar opposite of all those things when I don‘t!

The best lesson I ever learnt regarding healthy eating was getting back in touch with what hunger actually feels like! I‘d truly forgotten!! I allowed myself to get properly hungry, then ate slowly. I found out how much food it takes to satisfy the hunger, hmmmm, sadly this was a lot less than I hoped!!

On a serious note; this is where healthy eating habits began for me.

So how will I cope over the festive season? Small portions of everything, a glass of water for every glass of wine, stopping when I‘m full-up and keeping with daily exercise as much as possible. Will I be perfect? Definitely not! But do I value my body every day of the year and try to treat it well. Absolutely!

So that‘s how a few normal ladies who work with me manage to hold it

Winter activities to try with your toddler: • Go on a bear hunt and encourage children to explore. Crunch through leaves, jump in muddy puddles and leap over logs!

• Collect natural objects and sticks to make a picture and picture frame.

• Help the animals with hibernation by creating a hibernation den.

• Make handmade Christmas cards from leaf rubbings • Look out for Jack Frost and hunt out frozen cobwebs • Create twig stars - they make great Christmas tree toppers!

together on the run up to the festivities. We will all be joining in the fun and indulging a little but, I know I will enjoy this time of year a lot more if I don‘t OVER indulge and feel like Mrs Christmas by Jan 1st!

The Harrison Clinic offers a wide range of therapies including pre and post-natal treatments in a friendly, rural setting. Treatments available include osteopathy, physiotherapy, sports and remedial massage and Pilates.

Bridge Farm, Reading Road, Arborfield, Reading RG2 9HT, 0118 976 2253, www.harrisonclinic.co.uk

Local

National

International

Comprehensive legal advice for you and your family Contact our team for a free initial discussion

0118 911 1206 | www.hcrlaw.com With you every step of the way Harrison Clark Clark Rickerbys Rickerbys Ltd Ltd is is authorised authorised and and regulated regulated by by the the SRA SRA Harrison

Lots us more at www.familiestvw.co.uk/health Visit nowonathealth www. familiestvw.co.uk

Thames Valley West

PAGE 11

Early Years

Story and Rhyme Times

Wokingham Libraries

Children are never too young to enjoy a visit to the library and regular trips can help develop a life-long love of reading and books. Our libraries are keen to encourage young visitors and most hold regular story and rhymetime events for parents and little ones to enjoy together. They‘re also a good way to meet other parents. We‘ve listed below regular activities for under 5‘s.

Special one-off library events are also listed in our What‘s On pages and also online at www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson

Wokingham Libraries

Reading Libraries

(www.wokingham.gov.uk/libraries) Rhymetimes – various sessions; for babies with songs and rhymes; for toddlers with stories, songs and actions rhymes; for all under 5‘s, and specifically for dads.

Places limited so please book.

Storytime – with fun stories and rhymes for under 5‘s to share with parents, just drop in.

(www.readinglibraries.org.uk) Rhymetime – fun sessions for babies, toddlers and their parents & carers. Storytime and Craft Sessions – for the under 5‘s.

Finchampstead Library (0118 908 8176) Storytime – first Friday in the month 1 1am-11.30am. Rhymetime for under 5‘s – second, third and fourth Friday in month 11-11.30am.

(0118 901 5100) Rhymetime, Tuesdays 10.30am-11am, Fridays 10am-10.30am and 11.15am-11.45am. Storytime, Tuesdays & Thursdays 2.15pm-2.45pm and Saturdays 11.30am-12pm.

Newbury Library

Bracknell Central Library

(0118 901 5103) Rhymetime, Tuesdays 10.15am-10.45am and 11.15am-11.45am, Wednesdays 2.15pm-2.45pm. Storytime, Thursdays 2pm-2.30pm.

(01635 519 900) Rhymetime, Wednesdays 11am-11.20am, first, third and fifth Tuesday in the month 11am-11.20am. Storytime, Fridays 11am-11.30am and 2pm-2.30pm, Saturdays 2.30pm-3pm.

(01344 423 149) Little Buddies Club every other Tuesday 10.30am-11.30am with stories, bounce and rhyme for pre-school children.

Palmer Park Library

Pangbourne Library

(0118 901 5106) Rhymetime, Tuesdays 10am-10.30am, Fridays 10.30am-11am. Storytime, Mondays 2.15pm-2.45pm.

(0118 984 4117) Rhymetime and Storytime on alternate weeks on Thursdays 10am-10.30am

Thatcham Library

(01344 776 431) Bounce and Rhyme, Mondays and Tuesdays 9.30am-10am (term time only).

Storytime and craft, Wednesdays 9.30am (term time only).

Spencer‘s Wood Library

Reading Central Library

(0118 988 4771) Rhymetime for under 5‘s, third Thursday of the month 2.30pm-3pm. Storytime, every Monday 4pm-4.30pm

(0118 901 5106) Rhymetime, Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays 10.30am-11am.

(01635 866 049) Rhymetime, second Tuesday in the month 11am-11.30am. Storytime, Mondays 2.15pm-2.45pm.

Southcote Library

Theale Library

Wargrave Library

](0118 901 5109) Rhymetime, Fridays 10.30am-11am.

Storytime, Thursdays 9.30am-10am.

Lower Earley Library (0118 931 2150) Rhymetime for Babies – fourth Tuesday in the month 10.30-11am. Rhymetime for Toddlers, fourth Tuesday in the month 11.30am-12pm. Dad and Baby Rhymetime, second Saturday of the month 11am-11.30am. Storytime, every Thurs 2.30pm-3pm.

(0118 940 4656) Storytime, first Saturday of the month 10.30-11am and every Monday 4pm-4.30pm

Winnersh Library (0118 979 7519) Rhymetime for under 5‘s, fourth Wednesday of the month 10.15am-10.45am. Storytime, first Wednesday of the month 10.15am-10.45am.

Wokingham Library (0118 978 1368) Rhymetime for Babies, first Tuesday of the month 10.30am-11am and third Wednesday of the month 10am-10.30am.

Rhymetime for Toddlers, first Tuesday of the month 11.30am-12pm, third Wednesday of the month 11am-11.30am.

Dad and Baby Rhymetime, second Saturday of the month 10am-10.30am.

Storytime every Tuesday 4pm-4.30pm.

Woodley Library (0118 969 0304) Rhymetime for Babies, second Tuesday of the month 10.30am-11am. Rhymetime for Toddlers, second Tuesday of the month 11.30am-12pm. Storytime every Saturday 10.30am-11am.

PAGE 12

Battle Library

Thames Valley West

Caversham Library

Tilehurst Library (0118 901 5122) Rhymetime, Mondays 9.30am-10am and 10.45am-11.15am. Fridays, 10.30am-11am.

Storytime, Thursdays 2.30pm-3pm.

Whitley Library (0118 901 5115) Rhymetime, Tuesdays 2.15pm-2.45pm, Thursdays 11.15am-11.45am, Saturdays 10.30am-11am. Storytime, Thursdays 2.15pm-2.45pm

West Berkshire Libraries (www.westberks.gov.uk/libraries) Rhymetimes – for 0-3 year olds and Storytimes - for 3-5 year olds.

(0118 930 3207) Rhymetime, Wednesdays and Thursdays 11am-11.30am. Storytime (3-5 years) Fridays 11am-11.30am.

Wash Common Library (01635 35252) Rhymetime, Fridays (term time) 11am-11.20am.

Bracknell Libraries (www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/libraries) Bounce and Rhyme - for babies and toddlers. Storytime - for under 5‘s.

Ascot Heath Library (01344 884 030) Singing and nursery rhymes every Monday 2.15pm-2.45pm

Binfield Library

(0118 983 3632) Rhymetime (term time only), Thursdays 2.30pm-3pm.

(01344 306 663) Drop in for stories, rhymes and craft on the first Thursday of the month with refreshments from 9am and activities from 9.30am.

Mortimer Library

Birch Hill Library

(0118 933 2882) Rhymetime and Storytime, certain Tuesdays and Fridays, ring the library for more details.

(01344 456 526) Bounce and Rhyme, Tuesdays 2.30pm.

Storytime Tuesdays 11am.

Burghfield Common Library

Crowthorne Library

Great Hollands Library (01344 424 095) Bounce and Rhyme, Fridays 10am.

Storytime, Fridays 3.30pm followed by childrens craft club (3-11yrs).

Harmans Water Library (01344 423 660) Bounce and Rhyme, Mondays 10am-10.30am. After School Crafts, second and fourth Thursday of the month, 3.30pm-4.30pm.

Sandhurst Library (01252 870 161) Tots Time, Mondays 9.30am (stories, rhymes and craft). Morning Tales (2-3yrs), Thursdays 10am, Storytime (3-5yrs), Thursdays 2.15pm. Bounce and Rhyme, second and fourth Friday of the month 9.30am.

Whitegrove Library (01344 424 211) Storytime (2-5yrs), Wednesdays 10am.

Alphabet Club, Fridays (term time), 2pm-2.30pm, activites, stories and rhymes based on the letters of the alphabet. 50p per session or £3 per half term towards craft materials used.

Events are subject to change so please check with the library before setting out.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Early Years

EARLY YEARS NEWS

Village Montessori celebrates ‘Outstanding‘ OFSTED inspection

Active Toddlers Enjoy Winter fun at Jubilee Nursery Winter is a very special time for everyone at Jubilee and everyone is encouraged to head outdoors and explore the treasure trove of natural wonders surrounding the nursery in its beautiful rural setting. After saying hello to all the animals on the farm, the children enjoy collecting conkers, leaves and acorns, pretending to be puffy dragons in the frosty air and learning about the changing seasons and animals readying themselves for hibernation. There‘s also time to climb on logs and build dens in the Forest School.

Jubilee‘s pre-school children create spectacular firework pictures whilst learning about Diawli, Hannukah and Christmas.

Every year, Jubilee hosts a magical Winter Wonder Walk, where the campfire is lit, the woods come alive with carols and a very special visitor from Lapland makes an early appearance, creating special memories which last a lifetime.

The Village Montessori Nursery School in Bradfield Southend has received the highest possible OFSTED rating in a recent inspection.

Ofsted inspectors who rated the school ‘Outstanding,‘ commented that staff had, ‘seamlessly combined the Montessori philosophy with the Early Years Foundation Stage, ensuring that children‘s individual needs are exceptionally well met.‘ It also praised the development of systems within the school that successfully and effectively allow the staff to support children to be free to explore, experiment, discover and travel along their unique learning journeys.

The Montessori children have had a packed half term so far, including a visit from the animals where they had a chance to bottle feed lambs and ride a pony. A visit from a local bee-keeper engaged the children with lots of information and hands on activities – they went home with some honey from the bees and each pupil made a candle from the bees wax. Two pupils will be representing the Nursery School on November 20th at the special Children‘s Remembrance Service at Westminster Abbey.

The Village Montessori School hosts open days throughout the year and prospective parents are also welcome to visit at other times by appointment. For more information about the nursery school and the Montessori method visit, www.montessorinursery.co.uk or call 0118 9744 643.

Ideas for days out at www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson

Thames Valley West

PAGE 13

Early Years Jo Jingles

Fun for Babies and Toddlers In the second part of our Clubs and Classes Directory we turn our attention to the Under 5‘s.We‘ve included some of our favourite activities below, but you‘ll find lots more at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes Developmental Classes (see also our Music & Movement section)

Baby College – fun, multi-sensory baby/ child developmental classes from birth to 3yrs in Wokingham, Woodley, Lower Earley, Reading and Finchampstead, Julia@babycollege.co.uk, 07960 584 107, www.babycollege.co.uk Baby Sensations – a small independent Berkshire company offering Baby Massage classes and sensory sessions for babies.info@ babysensations.co.uk, 07738 566 646, www. babysensations.co.uk

Baby Sensory – enter a magical world of

sensory learning, wonder, exploration and extraordinary delights.The first baby programme to offer a complete approach to learning and development from birth to 13 months.Also Toddler Sense classes from 13 months.Classes in Reading, Wokingham, Henley, Thatcham, Burnham, www. babysensory.co.uk

Play Cantonese – a free Cantonese playgroup for children running every other Saturday (34pm) at Reading Central Library.Learn Cantonese through song, stories and play. Any family with children 0-5, learning or speaking Cantonese will enjoy these sessions, www.playcantonese.com, berkshire@playcantonese.com

NEW CLASS

LITTLE H CHAR-ACTORS TiLEhurST – ST JoSEPh’S ChurCh hALL PAGE 14

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Early Years Gym, Sport and Swimming Babies Go Swimming – specialised

underwater swimming classes.Babies can begin anytime from 6 weeks old.

Children who have experienced other underwater swimming classes are also welcome.Classes are held during the week and at weekends in a range of private warm pools throughout the area.The course fee is £117.50 for nine half hour classes.Fully qualified ASA instructors.0118 989 0543, info@babiesgoswimming.com, advertisement for the www. babiesgoswimming.com

T PROOF

our ue (No. 80) Baby of Families TVE. Swimming – swimming for

babies from 10 weeks – 12 months in

Sonning Common, Abingdon and Royal MATION IS CORRECT Berkshire Hospital.020 3176 5666, www. umbers andbabyswimming.co.uk addresses.

Thames Valley East

Bulmershe Gymnastics Club – based

at a purpose built gym in Woodley, run gymnastics classes for all ages including Leap Frogs for walkers to 5 years lead by qualified coaches on weekdays.0118 926 3686, admin@bulmershegymnastics.co.uk, or approve your www.bulmershegymnastics.co.uk

T: 01628 627586 E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk 50 All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 6NA gently introducing rugby specific skills.

this stage. charged for.

GR Swimming Schools – children‘s

swimming lessons from 3yrs in Newbury, Thatcham, Woodcote and Ascot.

Beginners, improvers and club level swimmers, also holiday crash courses in swimming, diving and snorkelling.

Structured lessons, ASA award scheme, 01635 201 410, www.swimlessons.co.uk

Kick-a-Bout – weekly after school

football classes for 3-10yrs in Newbury with the focus on building confidence and skill in a supportive, fun, friendly environment.Also summer holiday courses.

Free trial session.07796 520 506, www. kick-a-bout.com

Kiddikicks Football Classes –

football themed and football skills classes for 18 months – 7yrs, including match play from 4/5 yrs.Classes are held on Sunday mornings at Jennett‘s Park Community Centre in Bracknell and incorporate Early Years Learning Goals, great preparation for nursery including colour, number and shape recognition, 020 7937 7965, www. kiddikicks.co.uk

Rugby Tots – classes in Newbury, Reading, Bracknell and Basingstoke that aid the development of children‘s physical, psychological and social attributes whilst

Classes from 2-7yrs. 0845 313 3242, www.rugbytots.co.uk,

Swimkidz - swimming classes for bumps and beyond across Berkshire.0118 983 6130 / 07825 955 533, www.swimkidz.co.uk

Tumble Tots – agility, balance, climbing and coordination activities with action songs.Gymbabes from 6+ months to walking, Tumble Tots for walking to school age and Gymbobs for school-age to 7 yrs.

Classes in Reading, Wokingham, Winnersh, Woodley and Finchampstead.0118 973 6711, www.tumbletots.com/reading

Kiddikicks

Turtle Tots – specialist baby and toddler swimming classes and aqua-natal yoga classes.Running weekly at lovely warm pools in and around Reading.

Come out of your shell and learn to swim the Turtle Tots way!Please contact suzi.trafford@turtletots.com, 07810 864 810, www.turtletots.com

Water Babies – teaching babies from a few weeks old confidence and safety in Burghfield Common, Bracknell, Reading, Wokingham, Slough, Maidenhead and Basingstoke.01256 844 926, splishsplash@ waterbabies.co.uk,www.waterbabies.co.uk

Bellydancing lessons with

Rachel for all ages and levels in Maidenhead, Windsor, Wokingham and Twyford

Britain’s leading physical play programme for babies and children from 6 months to 7 years

Call Rachel on 07858 480 814

FREE TRIAL SESSIONS AVAILABLE

Rachel@rachelbellydancer.com www.rachelbellydancer.com

Contact Helen Davey for more details 0118 973 6711

Photo by Maani Vadgama

helen.davey@tumbletots.com www.tumbletots.com/reading

age range

Real Skills Real Fun

18 months - 10 years

Quote Grape for a Free Trial

r to amend

020 7937 7965 Find your local class

www.kiddikicks.co.uk Hundreds more clubs and classes at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes

Thames Valley West

PAGE 15

Early Years Bilinguasing

Story, Film & Crafts The Regal Picturehouse Cinema – this popular Henley cinema runs The Big Scream Club every Friday at 11am exclusively for parents with babies under one year old.Lights are left on low and nappy changing facilities are available.Membership is free and thereafter tickets for the latest releases are £9.00).For pre-school children Toddler Time offers special 30 minute shows at 11am every Tuesday designed to introduce little ones to the big screen.Membership is free and then it costs £3 per child.

Accompanying adult goes free.0871 902 5732, www.picturehouses.co.uk/henley Tales for Tots at Reading Museum – story time

for the Under 5‘s using objects from Reading Museum‘s collection, every Wednesday 10.30am-11.30am. Free, just drop in.0118 937 3400, www.readingmuseum.org.uk

Taylor Tug‘s Under Five‘s Club – creative activity

sessions for parents to enjoy with their children.Led by a trained teacher, sessions include craft, stories and song.

Most Wednesdays, term time at The River & Rowing Museum, Henley, 01491 415 605, www.rrm.co.uk

Toy Libraries Lend and Play Toy Library, Ambleside Centre,

Ambleside Close, Woodley, RG5 4JJ.When:, Wed 2.30pm8pm, and Saturday 10am-12pm.The Lend & Play Toy Library offers regular access to a large and diverse range of play experiences for parents, grandparents, childminders, playgroups and Children‘s Centres.It‘s great for parties too with large play equipment and toys, including tents and tunnels, ball pools, Happy Hopperz, roller coasters, cozy coupes and soft play equipment, available to hire for a week.Smaller toys and play equipment can be borrowed for even longer.0118 377 6429, lend.play@gmail.com, www.lendandplay.org.uk

Burghfield Toy Library, Burghfield Children‘s Centre, Jordans Lane, Burghfield Common, RG7 3LP When: Held every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 10am-11.30am.A wide range of fun and educational toys available to borrow, suitable from birth to 7 years.Loan prices for the month vary.Lifetime membership (proof of a WBC address required).0118 983 1866 Reading Toy Library, Southcote Library, Southcote Lane,

Reading, RG30 3BA

When: open Tue 9.30am-12pm, Thur 2-5pm, Sat 9.30am11am and 2-3.30pm.

Toy Library members can choose and borrow toys at the Toy Library when it is open.The smaller toys can also be requested from the online catalogue and collected from any Reading library a few days later.Annual membership costs £5 for parents and carers, with toys from 50p for a threeweek loan.Childminders, playgroups, nurseries and schools can join too and baby equipment is also available to hire. www.readinglibraries.org.uk or ask in any Reading Library.

Tick Tock Toy Library, Calcot, Theale and Area Children‘s Centre, Calcot Infant School, Curtis Road, Calcot, Reading, RG31 4XG When: every Weds 9-11.30am and every Fri 2.30-4pm A large selection of indoor and outdoor toys suitable for 0-8 years plus baby toys and equipment.Children can play while you enjoy coffee and a chat.Membership costs £5 per year and up to four toys costing £1 can be borrowed for up to 4 weeks. 0118 945 6157 Toy Box Toy Library, Owlsmoor Community Centre,

Sandhurst When: every Wed 9.30-11.15am This voluntary group has regular Wednesday sessions where toys can be hired out.Sessions include drinks and biscuits with a small entrance fee.07842 259 100, the.toy.box@ btinternet.com

Playcentre Fun Eddie Catz Newbury – a wide variety of regular classes for Under 5‘s run at this play centre in central Newbury.

These include Skills 4 All Sports multi-sport sessions for 1½5yrs; Monkey Music fun music activities for little ones from 3 months to 4yrs; Sing & Sign baby signing classes from 0-24 months; The Creation Station arty fun for 1½-5yrs; Skills 4 Footy sessions.All classes include a play in Eddie Catz before or after each session and most offer free taster sessions.View individual class details on the Eddie Catz website, www.eddiecatz.com

Kids-n-Action Play & Party Centre – alongside the usual fun at this Winnersh Triangle play centre, Toddler Fun runs every weekday during term time at 11am and 1pm for ages 1-5 (15 mins each session).There‘s Aerobics and Dancing on Mondays and Fridays, Music and Movement on Tuesdays, Fun and Games on Wednesdays and Story Time on Thursdays.Activities are included in the entrance price.0118 968 0983, www.kids-n-action.com.

The Mad House - Free toddler sessions take place every

weekday morning at 10.30am at this Green Park, Reading play centre, including treasure hunts, story time, nursery rhymes and arts and crafts.Plus Tiny Talk Baby Signing classes every Thursday at 10.30am (£6 per session).

55x90_multiple3_Layout 2 29/01/2015 10:08 Pag 0118 975 5455,www.themadhousereading.co.uk

For classes of pure MADness, Birthday join MAD Academy Parties too!

Call Trish on 0118 977 0050 or trish.nawacki@madacademy.com

Earley, Woodley, Caversham, Burghfield, Purley and Arborfield

Call Amanda on 07714 202951 or amanda.chivers@madacademy.com

Wokingham, Bracknell, Crowthorne, Sandhurst, Finchampstead, Winnersh and Binfield

Call Emma on 07935 248749 or emma.hester@madacademy.com Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley, Charvil and Twyford

Movement • rhythms • songs • instruments • games

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

PAGE 16

Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Early Years MAD Academy

Dance & Drama All Stars Theatre Academy – ballet, tap, modern, street jazz, gymnastic dance, drama, singing and Zumba.Classes start from just £3.50 per week.Branches in Burghfield Common, Lower Earley, Mortimer, Silchester, Tadley, Thatcham and Theale.Beginners to professional.0118 986 8000, www.allstardance.co.uk Dance Arts Academy – ballet, tap, modern, jazz, street dance and musical theatre for 2+ years in Sonning Common, Emmer Green, Caversham, Wokingham, Bracknell and Burnham.Plus Disco Duck Pre-School Classes.First class free, 07985 535 357, email Catherine@ danceartsacademy.co.uk Dramatix Productions - fun and innovative drama workshops involving improvisation, mini plays, characterisation, confidence building, teamwork, mime and more. 100% pass rate for LAMDA (drama) examinations. Costs are £4-6 per week. Little performers aged 4-6, Junior drama 7-11, and Senior drama 11-18.

Classes at Moulsford, Shinfield, Purley and Earley. Book a free trial. 07886 918 492, enquiries@dramatixproductions.co.uk, www.dramatixproductions.co.uk Diddi Dance - funky pre-school dance

classes for girls and boys. Exploring 14 different dance styles, Diddi Dance is the market leader in dedicated toddler dance classes. Improves gross motor skills, rhythm, co-ordination, confidence, creativity and social skills with dancing games, fun exercises, action songs and a host of props.

Lesson plans designed to complement and enhance the EYFS. Nursery workshops and parties too! Free trial class. 07719 87 87 89 andrea.bickford@diddidance.com www.diddidance.com

Dance Reality Studios - professional

dance studios in Tilehurst offering dance classes to adults and children. See website for full range of classes and services. 0118 942 1896 www.dancerealitystudios.co.uk

Shiney Tots – for toddlers aged 1-3yrs.45 mins designed to stimulate children‘s imaginations through interactive storytelling, drama games and popular nursery rhymes.

It‘s a lovely way to bond with your toddler through play and make believe.Shine helps develop language, communication and social skills, encouraging children to express themselves confidently and effectively.To book your child a place contact: 07912 289 777, info@shineperformingarts.co.uk, www. shineperformingarts.co.uk JG Dance and Theatre College –

beginner classes from 2½ years in ballet, jazz, tap, limbering, drama and singing.

Twice yearly theatre performances.Free trial lesson available.Classes held in Marlow, Bourne End, Twyford, Caversham, Woodley, Tilehurst, Henley and Basingstoke.01491 572 000 www.jgdance.co.uk

Perform – drama, dance and singing based workshops for 4-8 years, plus lots of holiday courses.A mixture of confidence building games, energetic dances and catchy songs held in Newbury, Pangbourne, Twyford, Caversham, Wokingham, Henley and Crowthorne.0845 400 1283, www.perform.org.uk Steppin Out Stars of Tomorrow

- Fun, energetic classes for 3.5 to 18 years. Dance, drama and singing - street dance, pop styles, musical theatre.

Classes in Wokingham and Woodley plus summer classes. 0118 9774 258, shelley@steppinoutschool.co.uk, www. steppinoutschool.co.uk

Razzamataz Theatre Schools for 4-18yrs in Newbury, Wokingham and Woodley offering street dance, commercial and musical theatre, drama and singing,

with the best outside performing opportunities in the area.

For under 5s there are Minis classes at Waverley Preparatory School in Wokingham and Park House School Newbury on Saturday Mornings.

More information: www.razzamataz.co.uk Newbury: 01635 905 404 / newbury@ razzamataz.co.uk Wokingham: 0118 324 0226 / wokingham@razzamataz.co.uk Woodley: 0118 324 0226 / woodley@ razzamataz.co.uk

School of the Arts (SOTA) – modern, ballet and tap, drama, musical theatre and singing for 3+ years in Reading, Bracknell and Windsor.0118 958 7168, www.sota.uk.com South Hill Park Youth Centre -Youth theatre groups for 5-11yrs, 11-16yrs and 16-25yrs based at South Hill Park Arts Centre in Bracknell. 01344 484 123, www. southhillpark.org.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Dance, drama and singing classes

for 4-18 yrs that build confidence and teach skills. Early Years classes for 4-6yrs designed to introduce young children to the performing arts.

Local branches are: Bracknell North 0800 915 0199 Newbury 0870 061 3526 Wokingham 0118 371 2998 Henley & Marlow 01494 533 203 Maidenhead 0118 942 3038 Reading East 01932 348 844 Reading West 0844 800 9482 Reading North 0118 911 1135 Bracknell 0800 707 6684www. stagecoach.co.uk

to native speakers. Wokingham, Reading & surrounding areas, including Saturday mornings. First ‘taster‘ class is FREE!, www. bilinguasing.com, 07810 751 645, kate@ bilinguasing.com

Maidenhead, Twyford and Henley (07935 248 749); Reading, Earley, Woodley, Burghfield, Arborfield, Purley and Caversham (0118 977 0050); see the website www. madacademy.com for more details.

Hartbeeps – original multi-sensory

Monkey Music – fun music classes from 3 months – 4yrs with action songs and rhymes, music and movement, percussion instruments and musical games.Classes in Newbury, Thatcham, Bradfield, Mortimer, Hungerford and Henley, 01635 860 959, www.monkeymusic.co.uk

music classes including song play, lighting effects, innovative props and puppetry.

Classes suitable from birth to 4 years, run in Bracknell, Wokingham, Woodley and Finchampstead.07921 235 678, www. hartbeeps.com

Jo Jingles – fun and educational music, singing and movement classes that can help develop social skills, confidence, co-ordination and language.All Jo Jingles programmes encompass the EYFS goals.

Classes in Ascot, Bracknell, Winkfield Row and surrounding areas.Jackie 01344 484 473, www.jojingles.com Kindermusik with Sarah – quality and fun music and movement classes from birth to 7yrs in Reading.Free taster class,fantastic activities and downloads to take home too. 07981 756 820, www. kindermusicwithsarah.co.uk

MAD Academy – high energy music, dance, movement and developmental games for children aged 3 months – 4yrs in

Music with Mummy – fun and

structured music and movement classes specifically designed for children under 3 years old.Jolly Babies for babies under 1 year, Music with Mummy for 1-3yrs and Three Four Time for children aged 3 and 4.Classes at Newbury Methodist Church.Ruth 07808 067 403, ruth@musicwithmummy.co.uk / www.musicwithmummy.co.uk

Musical Minis Berkshire – the preschool fun time music group for babies and toddlers.Each structured session encouraged cognitive, physical and emotional development through the use of music, instruments and stories in a relaxed group atmosphere.0118 977 6407, sara@ musicalminis.co.uk, www.musicalminis.co.uk

Music & Movement Bilinguasing - Award-winning, Spanish & French bilingual singing, music and movement classes for babies (from 1 month), toddlers and pre-school children.

BilinguaSing is a unique class for parents and little ones to learn Spanish or French together in a fun and engaging way.

Familiar nursery rhymes and songs are learnt in both English and Spanish or French and are accompanied by a variety of fun movements and lovely props.

Classes suitable for complete beginners

Award winning music classes for babies & young children NEWBURY, HUNGERFORD & HENLEY T: 01635 860959 E: newbury.henley@monkeymusic.co.uk

Hundreds more clubs and classes at www.familiestvw.co.uk/classes

Thames Valley West

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Early Years

EARLY YEARS CLUBS AND CLASSES NEWS

Diddi Dance launches new classes across Reading and Wokingham Diddi Dance Reading & Wokingham is adding more new sessions to its timetable to keep up with demand for the funky pre-school dance classes. Another Saturday morning class will launch in Woodley in November and January will see classes opening in Tilehurst and Caversham.

“I‘m really proud of the continued growth of Diddi Dance since its launch in the area almost two years ago and am delighted to have appointed my first teacher to help me expand further,” says Andrea Bickford, Owner of Diddi Dance Reading & Wokingham. “As a former UK Hip Hop champion, Bethany also brings a wealth of teaching experience to the role and is a real asset to the company.”

Diddi Dance is the market leader in dedicated pre-school dance classes. By exploring multiple dance styles, the sessions are the ideal way to introduce girls and boys aged 2-4 years to the joy of dancing and to help them burn off excess energy in a creative and educational environment.

To find out more, call Andrea on 07719 87 87 89, email andrea.bickford@diddidance.com or visit www.diddidance.com

Berzerk Productions opens Tilehurst Little CharActors Class Due to the massive success of Berzerk‘s Little Char-Actors class for ages 4-6 in Pangbourne, they have announced they will be starting a new class in Tilehurst in January 2016. With many years of working with this age group in their school classes, Berzerk are excited to now offer them at private centres.

Their specially designed workshops focus on many aspects of character and personality building, alongside our confidence, self-esteem and vocal work for this age group. Only 10 places available so be quick! For information please email info@berzerkproductions.com or call 07863 734 830.

For ages 7-18 years old • drum lessons • Guitar Lessons • Bass Lessons • Vocal lessons Sessions in Thatcham, Wargrave, Burghfield and Tilehurst!

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Thames Valley West

A warm welcome for little ones at JG Dance Pupils from just 2½ to 18 years old are assured of a warm welcome at JG Dance. Qualified, experienced and very caring staff cater for beginners to the more advanced. Young pupils receive tuition in three styles of dance: Ballet, Tap and Jazz, all included in one price, and held on the same day.

Little ones learn how to develop confidence, stimulate their imagination and improved their posture and coordination. Most of all though, the main aim is to provide a fulfilling hobby that is FUN! As children progress, and become more technically able, they have the opportunity to perform twice yearly on stage. All prospective pupils are offered a free trial lesson, before committing to enrolment and many former pupils have successful careers on the stage, screen and in ballet companies all over the world. For more information and class details please contact us on 01491 572000 or at info@ jgdance.co.uk, www.jgdance.co.uk

MAD Academy Maidenhead for Sale Ever thought of running your own business? Running a local MAD Academy franchise offers fun, flexible and rewarding career opportunity.

After nine successful years, current MAD Academy Maidenhead and Twyford owner Emma Lelliott has decided to sell her business and is currently looking for a buyer. MAD Academy is well known in the area for offering structured, fun and educational classes for babies and children up to 5 years.

The business for sale covers Maidenhead, Marlow, Henley, Twyford, Charvil and surrounding areas in public venues, children‘s centres and nurseries. There is considerable opportunity for additional venues within the area and for expansion beyond. MAD Academy also runs popular children‘s parties and frequently participates in fetes and fundays.

The business sale includes a large selection of props, musical instruments and equipment for use in the classes, customer lists, long established quality venue bookings all with free parking and a highly respected reputation in the area. If you would like more information please contact Emma Lelliott on 0118 979 2695 or emma.lelliott@madacademy.com

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

What‘s On

Details can change so please check before setting out.

Diary Dates Ongoing Events Weekly – BIG SCREAM, TODDLER TIME & KIDS’ CLUBS at The Regal Picturehouse, Henley, RG9 2BZ, 0871 902 5738, www.picturehouses.co.uk/Henley Big Scream Club runs on Fridays at 11am exclusively for parents with babies under 1yr so you can catch the latest film releases. For pre-school children Toddler Time on Tuesdays at 11am offers special 30 minute shows designed to introduce little ones to the big screen. For the older ones there’s Kids Club every Saturday showing a classic film at 11am plus prescreening activities.

Until 3 Jan – THE FIRE AND LIGHT SHOW at The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, 01344 354 400, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ thelookoutdiscoverycentre An amazing show suitable for ages 5+, every weekend and Bracknell school holidays until 3 Jan 16. The show includes fantastic demonstrations to fire your imagination. Find out what a candle needs to keep burning, which creatures create their own light as well as the chance to marvel at the tornado of fire. Experiments not to be done at home! Show times at 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm subject to minimum numbers. £1.85 per person in addition to normal entrance fee.

November 1 Nov – PUMPKINS AND POTIONS at Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading, Berkshire, RG8 9NR 0118 984 3040, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ basildon-park Have a go at the spooky trail in the gardens. 10.00am - 4.00pm. £2 1 Nov – SPOOKY HALLOWEEN TRAINS at Cholsey and Wallingford

Railway, 5 Hithercroft road, Wallingford , Oxfordshire, OX10 9QD 01491 835067, www.cholseywallingford-railway.com Dress up if you care, be there if you dare!

Watch out for ghosts, rattling bones and spiders of different sizes to meet all tastes.

Look out for the spooky characters along

both sides of the line to Cholsey and back.

Beware of the Witch distributing Special Halloween Spooky Bags on the train to all children under 8 years.No need to bookjust turn up on the day!

3 Nov – MULTIPLE BIRTH PLAY TIME at Active Tots, 5-7 Granary Court, Stratfield Saye, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 2DL 01256 880 220, www.activetots.org Every Tuesday morning from 10am until 12 noon, multiple birth families are invited to play for the special play price of just £6.00.

An extra adult free is also included free, for those who need an extra pair of hands!

Single child families are also welcome on these mornings. 10am-12pm 3 Nov – NATURE TOTS at Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre, Muddy Lane, Lower Way, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG19 3FU 01635 874 381, www.bbowt.org.uk Monthly parent and toddler group offering a great opportunity each month for you and your pre-school little ones to have fun in natural surroundings. Each session will include activities such as bug-hunting, mud-painting and mask-making. Tea, biscuits and mud provided! BOOKING ESSENTIAL. All children must be accompanied by an adult and please dress for the weather. Child - £4.00 donation.

9:30am-11:30am 3 Nov & 5 Nov – TEENY TINY TOTS at Active Tots, 5-7 Granary Court, Stratfield Saye, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 2DL 01256 880 220, www.activetots.org Every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon from 2pm - 4pm is exclusively for children 18 months and younger, giving them the opportunity to explore the soft play equipment without giant toddlers around!

Indoor sessions offer those who are just starting to roll, crawl or find their feet the opportunity to do so within the safe surroundings of the soft play area, whilst giving mums the opportunity to socialise and meet other mums. £4.75

£1.50 or £2.00 Per Family (based on oldest Child and up to three children).

4 Nov – MESSY PLAY at Active Tots, 5-7 Granary Court, Stratfield Saye, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 2DL 01256 880 220, www.activetots.org Outdoors in the Active Tots garden on a Wednesday morning, subject to dry weather. Messy play activities provide an opportunity to explore something a little different and will be available between 10.30am and 11.30am. Aprons will be provided if necessary! 10.30am11.30am 5 Nov – CHIEVELEY BONFIRE NIGHT FIREWORKS EXTRAVAGANZA at Chieveley

Recreation Ground, RG20 8TE Believed to be the longest running village fireworks display in the UK, visitors come from miles around for this firework fiesta. Gates open at 6.15pm with the bonfire lit at 7.15pm and fireworks at 7.45pm. Advance tickets: family £13.50, single £4. Available from Chieveley Village Stores, Hermitage Village Stores, Cold Ash Village Stores.

On gate: Family £18, single £5 (cash only). No personal fireworks permitted.

5 Nov – CHILDREN’S KNITTING CLUB at Sandhurst Library, The Broadway, Sandhurst, Berkshire, GU47 9BL 01252 870161, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ librariesgeneralinformation Knitting club on Thursdays between 3.30pm to 4.30pm. A chance for children to learn and enjoy all aspects of knitting.

Help and materials provided. 3:30-4:30 6 Nov – ALPHABET CLUB at Whitegrove Library, 5 County Lane, Wargrave, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG42 3JP 01344 424211 http://www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ librariesgeneralinformation Friday term time only, 2pm-2.30pm.

Activities, stories and rhymes based on the letters of the alphabet for children aged three to four years old.

Sessions are 50p or £3 per half term towards craft materials used. Parental supervision is required.

6 Nov – NATURE WALKS at Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading, Berkshire, RG8 9NR 0118 984 3040, www.nationaltrust. org.uk/basildon-park A fun nature walk around the magnificent parkland of Basildon Park, led by a warden or a member of the Reading and District Natural History Society. Walks leave from the stableyard at 11am each Friday. Closed 24 & 25 December. 11am. Free with admission 7 Nov – BAYEUX TAPESTRY TOUR at Reading Museum, The Town Hall , Blagrave St, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1QH 0118 937 3400, www.readingmuseum.org.uk/events Enjoy a guided tour of the famous fullsize copy of the Tapestry – no need to book. Every Saturday in the Bayeux Gallery. 2.15pm-3pm. Suggested donation £2.

4 Nov – FOREST PARK TODDLER GROUP at Forest Park Community centre, Horndean Rd, Bracknell Every Wednesday and Friday (including School Holidays) from 10:00-11:30. First session is FREE. Price includes a drink and biscuit for adults and drink and fruit snack for children 10am-11.30am. Under1’s

Find a local firework display at www.familiestvw.co.uk/fireworks

Thames Valley West

PAGE 19

What‘s On 7 Nov – CHATTER BOOKS and SATURDAY STORY TIME at Newbury Library, The Wharf, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 5AU 01635 519 900, www.info.westberks.gov.uk 8-12 year olds: love to read? Then come along to Newbury Library library on Saturday once per month 2-3pm, and join in with Chatterbooks. Bring your favourite book, refreshments provided.

Please call ahead to reserve your place.

2.00pm Story Time for pre-schoolers (3-5 years) at 2.30pm.

7 Nov – DADDIES BREAKFAST TIME at Active Tots, 5-7 Granary Court, Stratfield Saye, Reading, Berkshire, RG7 2DL 01256 880 220, www.activetots.org Every Saturday morning from 9.30am onwards. Bacon rolls and the morning papers are the order of the day. A great opportunity for Daddies to spend time with the little ones whilst mummy has some time to herself (mummies welcome to come along too if they want to!). 9.30am.

7 Nov – WOKINGHAM CHARITY FIREWORKS at Cantley Field,

Wokingham, www.wokinghamfireworks.co.uk The fun starts at 6pm when a torchlit procession leaves from the town centre led by St Sebastian’s Band. At Cantley Field there will be a fun fair and Heart Radio will be providing music and commentary, with the Heart Angels circulating with freebies and taking pictures. The fireworks start at 7.30pm followed by a big bonfire with a World War 1 Centenary theme.

All proceeds to local charities. Entry by programme per person, £5 in advance, £7.50 on the day. Children under 7 free.

7 Nov – PANGBOURNE FIREWORK FIESTA at Pangbourne Primary School, Kennedy Drive, Pangbourne, RG8 7LB, www.fopps.org.uk The Friends of Pangbourne Primary School will be hosting their popular Firework Fiesta with a huge bonfire, firework display, BBQ and bar, with plenty of fun for all the family. Gates open 5.30pm, fireworks at 7pm. Tickets adults and children over 12 £7.50 advance, £10 on gate. Family ticket (up to 5 members) £30. Children under 12 free. Tickets available online or from Pangbourne Primary School or The Rhubarb Tree, Pangbourne.

8 Nov – THE SNOW QUEEN BALLET at South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk Join Ballet Theatre UK in their beautiful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s classic fairytale ballet. This spectacular production follows the story of Gerda and her quest to find her friend Kay, whom the Snow Queen has placed under an evil spell. Ballet Theatre UK’s renowned company of international dancers, beautiful costumes and glittering stage sets combine to create a magnificent spectacle, all set to a magical score. Adults £18, Children £12, Family ticket £54.

10&11 Nov and 11&12 Dec – TODDLER DAYS at The Lookout Discovery Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7QW, www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/ thelookoutdiscoverycentre Toddlers are always very welcome at the Lookout as there is plenty to do. Toddlers particularly enjoy the mini-supermarket, playing with bricks and dumper trucks and playing with boats in the ‘stream.’ Toddler days are special days just for parents and little ones with themed activities and story telling.

10 & 11 Nov have a Prince and Princess Theme. 11 & 12 Dec have a Christmas arts and crafts theme. Admission also includes entrance to the hands-on science and nature exhibition. 10am-4pm. £6.80 per adult and toddler. £1.55 for each additional toddler.

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Thames Valley West

Christmas Wonderland Paulton’s Park, 14 Nov-23 Dec

10-13 Nov - SHAKESPEARE SCHOOLS FESTIVAL at South Hill

Park Arts Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southillpark.org.uk Each night four schools will perform different Shakespeare plays. Celebrate the achievement of our local schools whilst enjoying a wonderful evening of entertainment. The Shakespeare School’s Festival is the UK’s largest youth drama festival and enables over 1000 primary, secondary and special schools to stage abridged Shakespeare productions in their local professional theatre. Adults £9.50, Children £7.50, Groups of 20+ £7.

11-12 Nov – PEPPA PIG’S BIG SURPRISE at The Hexagon, Queens Walk, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 7UA 0118 960 6060, www.readingarts.com Surprise! Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back in Reading in a brand new live stage show, Peppa Pig’s Surprise.

Enjoy fun, games and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show with new songs and new life size puppets, Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers!

Wed 10am, 1pm & 4pm, Thurs 10am & 1pm / Premium seat: £22, Adults £18, U16’s £2 off, Family £64 (not available on Premium seats). All tickets are inclusive of booking fee.

11 Nov – SEN SOFT PLAY SESSION at Eddie Catz Newbury, Northway House, York Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 7NF 0203 475 5268, www.eddiecatz.com Eddie Catz and West Berkshire Parents Voice have joined forces once more to organize another early evening session of play for all Special Needs children and their siblings. Session includes full access to the soft play area, disco room with music turned down and soft lights, football pitch. Wheelchair users will have access to area with soft mats, balls and toys. Quiet and chill out area where children can have a little quiet time if needed. £3.55 per child includes: Unlimited juice for the children (Apple juice, orange juice and water)£7.00 per child Meal Deal includes: A meal from the children’s menu, a drink and admission.

Parents/Carers come in for FREE. To book contact Fiona - 07860942280 5.307.00pm.

14 Nov-3 Jan 16 - READING WINTER ON ICE at Forbury Gardens, Reading, RG1 3EJ, www. readingwinteronice.com Forbury Gardens will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland giving everyone an amazing Christmas experience. There will be themed rides and attractions, festival stalls, an array of festive foods, mulled wine, hot chocolate and Bavarian beer. The main attraction will be the huge ice rink. Santa’s Grotto will be open daily from 19 Nov to 24 Dec. Buy tickets online from £7.70 per adult and £6.65 per child (off peak).

10am-10pm daily.

14-15 Nov – CRAFT AND DESIGN FAIR 2015 at South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk In 2014, South Hill Park made their much loved Craft and Design Fair free to attend. In 2015 they are keeping the free admission and extending the fair to two days. Enjoy some of the UK’s best handmade crafts on display throughout the South Hill Park mansion and the Wilde Theatre foyer and buy directly from the exhibiting artists.

14 Nov – DIWALI at The River & Rowing Museum, Henley, RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk.

Celebrate the festival of lights with Rangoli patterns, lantern making and puppets.

11am-3pm. Free with admission.

14 Nov CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON at Broad Street Mall, Broad Street, Reading, RG1 7QE, www.broadstreetmall.com Entertainment throughout the day from 10am with the big Xmas lights switch on by a mystery celebrity at 4pm. Plus every Sat from 19 Nov, Santa will be roving around the centre with his elf, giving guests the opportunity to “Elf Your Selfie.”

14 Nov-23 Dec (selected dates)-

CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR at Legoland Windsor Resort, www.legoland.co.uk Experience Legoland as you have never seen it before, with twinkling lights, snow dusted pine trees and seasonal festivities.

Meet Santa and his elves. Selected rides also open. More info p.26 14 Nov-23 Dec (selected dates) – SANTAS CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND at Paulton’s Park,

Ower, Romsey, SO51 6AL www. paultonspark.co.uk Step into a festive dreamworld, where adorable animal characters greet you at every turn as you make your way through the enchanted winter snow scene. Meet Santa and see the elves working hard in the toy factory.

More info p.26.

14 Nov – THE NUTCRACKER BALLET at Kenton Theatre, New Street, Henley, RG9 2BP, 01491 575 698, www.kentontheatre.co.uk Presented by Let’s All Dance, with stunning dancing, gorgeous costumes and world famous music, this is a classic Christmas favourite for all ages. Journey through the magical night with Clara and the Nutcracker Prince, meet the Mouse King and join the Sugar Plum Fairy in the beautiful Land of Sweets. Suitable for all ages. Adults £13, Children £10, Senior Citizens £11. Family Ticket £40.

17 Nov & 15 Dec - NATURE TOTS at The Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk A great opportunity for parents and pre-schoolers to have fun in natural surroundings. Each session includes activities such as bug hunting, mud painting and mask making. Tea, biscuits and mud provided. Booking Essential.

19 Nov-3 Jan 16 - ALICE IN WONDERLAND at The Watermill

Theatre, Bagnor, Newbury, Berkshire, RG20 8AE 01635 46044, www.watermill.org.uk Chasing a mysterious white rabbit with a pocket watch, Alice tumbles down a rabbit hole and into a world of fun and adventure. There she meets the colourful characters of Wonderland and hears their fantastical tales. But will Alice find her way home? Suitable for children aged 4+. Relaxed performance 30 November, 6.30pm. British Sign Language performance 12 Dec 2.30pm, Audio Described performance 2 Jan 2.30pm and Touch Tour, 6.30pm. See website for full details and tickets. / £11.00 - £21.00 20 Nov – WOKINGHAM CHARITY CHRISTMAS MARKET at The Town Hall, Market Place, Wokingham, RG40 1AS, www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk An opportunity to do some Christmas shopping whilst supporting local charities who will be selling a wide range of gifts for all ages.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

What‘s On 21 Nov - WINTER FAYRE at Ashridge Nursery, Ashridge Road, Wokingham, RG40 1PG, www.ashridgenurserye.co.uk 10.30am-1.30pm.

finishes with the town’s Christmas lights being turned on at 7pm. Stalls will be open at 5pm and the evening will include live entertainment on stage. The Broadway Green will be filled with charity and local community groups offering games, presents and refreshments.

21 Nov – CHRISTMAS FAIR at Kidmore End Primary School, Chalkhouse Green Road, Kidmore End, Reading, RG4 9AU Attractions include Santa in his grotto, mulled wine, food, cakes, silent auction and lots of other popular stalls. Adults £2, children free. 12pm-3pm.

21&22 Nov & 24 Nov-24 Dec CHRISTMAS FAMILY FUN at Odds Farm Park, nr Wooburn Common, 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk Santa is coming to Odds Farm Park on 21 & 22 Nov and daily from 28 Nov to 24 Dec. Plus with plenty of lambs due in December, there’s stacks of festive fun for the whole family, and plenty of madness and mayhem with the Festive Entertainers every weekend in November & December. All the extra fun is included in the entry price.

22 Nov - PET A PENGUIN at Kennet Shopping Centre, The Kennet Centre, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 5EN 01635 40748, www.kennetshopping. co.uk/event Experience an encounter with some real life Humboldt Penguins! See these beautiful, warm-weather birds, up close.

You can also learn about them, as the penguins will be accompanied by two experts, who will give educational talks throughout the day. You can ask questions about the birds and maybe even see them being fed. Times for when you can see the penguins will be confirmed soon, see website for more details.

28 Nov - CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON in Woodley Shopping Centre, 0118 921 6920, www.woodleytowncentre.co.uk with carols, mince pies, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.

28 Nov – MY WILD LIFE – BARN OWL PELLETS at West Berkshire

Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, 01635 519 562, museum@ westberks.gov.uk After a visit to the My Wild Life exhibition, discover what the local barn owls have been eating. Look closely at the barn owl pellets to discover whether they’ve been eating mice, voles, shrews or moles. Also have a go at the bird house quiz and look at animals under the microscope. Free.

28 Nov – 3 Jan - COUNTRY HOUSE CHRISTMAS at The Vyne, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL, 01256 883 858, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ thevyne

5 Dec – YATTENDON CHRISTMAS FAIR at Yattendon CofE Primary

School, Yattendon, Berkshire, RG18 0UR Local crafts, Christmas decorations on sale, plus some local culinary delights. Plus, visit the famous Christmas Tree Barn to get your perfect tree.

6 Dec – CHRISTMAS CRAFTS,

CAROLS AND CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Alice in Wonderland at The Watermill Theatre, 19 Nov-3 Jan 16

Feel festive as you walk around a family home decorated for Christmas. Plus on 1, 8 & 15 Dec enjoy a Christmas lunch with roast turkey or nut roast and all the trimmings, with dessert to follow. £22, booking essential.

28 Nov – 5 Jan - A MERRY CHRISTMAS at Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, RG8 9NR, 0844 249 1895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ basildonpark Come and see the house beautifully decorated for Christmas and explore the wintery garden trails. £2 in addition to normal admission price. Booking not needed.

29 Nov – WOKINGHAM WINTER CARNIVAL, Wokingham Town Centre,

Peach Street, Broad Street, Market Place, Denmark Street areas , Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 1AS, www.wintercarnival.org.uk A fun-packed day held in the town centre streets and a great way to start the Christmas period. Attractions include fun fair rides, over 100 food, craft and charity stalls and non-stop free entertainment including Santa’s Grotto, a magic show, Punch & Judy, comedy jugglers, clowns and other special entertainers.

December 1-23 Dec – CHRISTMAS ON THE FARM at Bucklebury Farm Park,

Bucklebury, RG7 6RR, 0118 971 4002, www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Enjoy Christmas on the farm. 10am-5pm.

See Father Christmas in his grotto, meet the reindeer, enjoy games and quizzes and browse for Christmas gifts. Plus tractor

rides, indoor and outdoor playgrounds and lots of animals to see. Santa will also be dropping into special Christmas lunches at Woody’s Café. Open to non-visitors, please pre-book on 0118 971 2033 1-24 Dec – WOKINGHAM LIVING ADVENT CALENDAR around

Wokingham Town Centre, www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk/advent Enjoy and celebrate this Christmas season with 24 performances over 24 days of advent, bringing together local businesses, individuals, performers and charitable organisations to present a free 15 minute performance from local talent at 6pm every day. Full details of each day’s events are available online.

2 & 3 Dec – CHRISTMAS FAIR at Highclere Castle, Newbury, RG20 9RN, 01635 253 210, www.highclerecastle.co.uk The Earl and Countess of Carnarvon will transform the state rooms of Highclere Castle to provide a unique shopping experience in aid of the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance and St Michael & All Angels Church. A festive occasion with a spectacular Christmas tree, carol singers, Christmas decorations and a variety of exciting stalls for Christmas shopping.

Guests are welcome to enjoy the tearooms on arrival with a selection of hot and cold drinks and mince pies. Pre-booked tickets only. Adults £20, Children £5. Visit website for more details.

4 Dec – THATCHAM CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CELEBRATION, Thatcham Town Centre, The Broadway, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG19 3JA, www.thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk An evening of entertainment which

at Shaw House, Church Road, Newbury, RG14 2DR, 01635 279 279, www.shawhouse.org.uk Come along to the Shaw House Christmas fair to experience craft stalls, spectacular carol singing from Speenhamland Ladies’ Choir, tasty treats including mulled wine and hot bacon rolls, and the most brilliant children’s parties. £3.50 per child, must be accompanied by an adult. Price includes a present. Pre-booking required for parties from Newbury Visitor Information Centre, Market Place, Newbury, tourism@ westberks.gov.uk, 10am-4pm.

6 Dec – FAMILY FUN CHRISTMAS CRAFTS at The Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham, RG19 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk Drop in throughout the afternoon to make a Christmas craft to take home.

Make a reindeer, snowman or penguin. £1 donation per child. No need to book.

Suitable for ages 2-10.

Every weekend from 5-20 Dec and also 22 & 23 Dec – DAY OUT WITH

THOMAS TO MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS at Didcot Railway

Centre, Didcot, OX11 7NJ, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk Enjoy a Thomas-themed day out and ride behind Thomas to see Father Christmas in his grotto. For more details see our Where’s Santa? Feature on p.26-27.

5-20 Dec (weekends only)– CLIVEDEN CHRISTMAS TRAIL at Cliveden,

Taplow, Maidenhead, SL6 0JA, 0844 249 1895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ cliveden Bring the family to take part in some Christmassy activities together on this special ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ trail.

Walk through the gardens, picking up small stocking filler gifts along the way.

Children can also write a letter to Father Christmas and deliver it to the man himself at the end of the trail.

The Magic Of Christmas* New for 2015, don’t miss a truly magical experience at Odds Farm Park. MeetFather Christmas in his cosy Grotto, visit the Elves’ ‘Teddy Tastic’ Workshop and enjoy plenty more Festive Family Fun.+ OPEN DAILY 10AM – 5.30PM

T:01628 520188

NR BEACONSFIELD, HP10 0LX (M40, J2)

* Extra charge applies and includes a special Gift + See website for specific dates & times of all the Festive Fun and Activities.

Don’t forget to tell advertisers that you saw them in

Book your Xmas pantomime now - www.familiestvw.co.uk/pantomimes

OFP-AM-15-092 Christmas – 118x70-FM.indd 1

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What‘s On 5-24 Dec – FATHER CHRISTMAS’ GROTTO at South Hill Park Arts

Back by popular demand, Major Mustard is with the Nature Discovery Centre again to entertain with a delightful mix of puppetry, songs and stories. His friend Biscuit the mouse will be assisting and there will be lots of audience participation with songs and stories. A fun filled performance for all the family. 11am-12pm and 2pm-3pm.

Booking essential. £5 per person.

Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk This Christmas a very important man is setting up shop at South Hill Park.

It’s the famous Man in Red, coming to visit children before having to rush off and deliver to all the good boys and girls of the world. Visit him in his grotto and give him your wish list, plus meet some of his elves and make your own Christmas decorations. *Book tickets to Sleeping Beauty and receive discounted entry into the Grotto. More details & booking from the Box Office (NOT MONDAYS).

Nearly New Sales 08 Nov – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Meadway Sports Centre, Tilehurst, RG30 4BZ, www. babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Over 40 stalls bursting with top quality near to new baby and children’s brands from birth to 8 years. Free parking, on site refreshments, children and buggies are welcome. £1 entry – children free.

2pm-4pm.

6 Dec – LEGO WORKSHOP at Kennet Shopping, Newbury, RG14 5EN, www.kennetshopping.co.uk/events A festive Lego workshop where children can make a mini Father Christmas, a reindeer or even a Christmas tree with Lego blocks to take home and put on your fireplace for Father Christmas to see when he visits.

14 Nov – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Bulmershe Leisure

6 Dec – WOODLEY WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA in Woodley

Shopping Centre, 0118 921 6920, www.woodleytowncentre.co.uk Enjoy the 19th Woodley Christmas Extravaganza with entertainment throughout the day for all the family, including Santa’s Grotto. Lots of charity, craft and trade stalls selling produce and gifts. See website for further details.

12 Dec – CHRISTMAS GLASS PAINTING at The River & Rowing Museum, Henley, RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk Get creative for Christmas! Paint your own glass candle holder and make festive decorations. Suitable for 7-11 years. £8.50, booking essential.

12, 19 & 20 Dec – SANTA CRUISES with Hobbs of Henley, 01491 572 035, www.hobbsofhenley.com River trips aboard the New Orleans with a visit and present from Santa, family entertainment from Fred in the Shed and refreshments. For more details see p.26 12&13 Dec – FATHER CHRISTMAS PARADE at Kennet Shopping,

Newbury, RG14 5EN, www. kennetshopping.co.uk/events Meet Father Christmas and his Super Friends! Father Christmas will be arriving in style in a Batmobile and will be joined by several superheroes and film characters.

Watch them parade around the Kennet Centre from 10am and then Father Christmas will meet children all day on 12th and 13th Dec. 12-13 and 19-23 Dec - SANTA CRUISES on Jubilee Narrowboat from Newbury Wharf, RG14 5AS, 01635 302 267, www.visit newbury.org.uk Cruise to ‘Greenham Land’ to find Santa on board the iceboat Jubilee. Children enjoy a Christmas story, singing and plenty of time with Santa during the boat trip.

Ticket price includes a good quality present from Santa and for the adults, a choice of mulled wine or hot drink and a mince pie.

Trips last 1 hour – dress warm and don’t forget your Christmas hat. £8. Booking essential.

13 Dec – FESTIVAL OF LIGHT, Newbury Town Centre, Northbrook Street, Market Place, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 1AN, www.cornexchangenew.com The annual Festival of Light procession features a river of beautifully lit lanterns winding its way through Newbury town centre. Lantern bearers meet and light their lamps from 4pm with the procession starting at 4.30pm on Northbrook Street, and parading to Market Place.

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Christmas Bricktacular at Legoland Windsor, 14 Nov-23 Dec

13 Dec - HENLEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA FAMILY CHRISTMAS CONCERT at the Christ Church Centre,

Reading Road, Henley, RG9 1AG, www. henleysymphonyorchestra.co.uk The Christmas concert in HSO’s home town provides well-loved classical pieces for all ages and some audience participation. Young Children’s Concert at 4.30pm is a short afternoon concert to introduce younger children to a live orchestra and is particularly suitable for ages 2-6 (younger siblings are welcome).

Family Concert at 6.30m includes singing favourite carols with a full orchestra, followed by mulled wine, soft drinks and mince pies. Visit website for more ticket information and prices.

16 Dec – FESTIVE RACEDAY at Newbury Racecourse, RG14 7NZ, 01635 40015, www.newburyracecourse.co.uk The perfect date to celebrate Christmas with family and friends. Restaurant and private box packages will have a special festive theme. Tickets from £15.30£33.00.

17 Dec – FAMILY FROZEN CHRISTMAS PARTY at Eddie Catz Newbury, Northway House, York Road, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 7NF 0203 475 5268, www.eddiecatz.com Get into the Christmas spirit at the magical annual Eddie Catz Annual Christmas party, this year with a Frozen Theme! Featuring a Frozen themed bouncy castle, a chance to sing along with Elsa from Frozen plus face painting, Frozen goodie bags and a fancy dress competition with a prize for the best Frozen character costumes. You will also have the chance to dance with Eddie “Claus” and enjoy cookies & milk. There will also be the chance to see Santa in his Grotto and you can take your own photo with him! £12 per child which includes all entertainment, face painting, cookies & milk and a goodie bag, £1 per adult, siblings under 12 months – FREE. Booking essential – entry by ticket only.

18&19 Dec – CHRISTMAS RACING WEEKEND at Ascot Racecourse,

0844 346 3000, www.ascot.co.uk A two day festive finale at Ascot, with a family raceday on Saturday 19th Dec, including a visit from Father Christmas, carol singing, mince pies and more. From

10.45am. Tickets from £15-£15. Children under 18 free.

19 Dec - A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS at Shaw House Newbury, Church Road, Shaw, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 2DR 01635 279279, www.nationaltrust.org.uk Songs, carols, tales and drama from Yuletide Past! A fun and festive celebration of the Christmas our ancestors would have known. An evening of music, song, stories and drama from the time of Dickens and Hardy. A show guaranteed to delight and enthral young and old audiences. 7.00pm / Adults £12 (includes mulled wine and a mince pie), Under 16’s £5 21 Dec – MOLE’S CHRISTMAS at The River & Rowing Museum, Henley, RG9 1BF, 01491 415 600, www.rrm.co.uk Celebrate the festive season with Mole and characters from Wind in the Willows.

Come in your best Christmas jumper, enjoy Christmas crafts and join in the carol singing. Paper chains, snow flakes, lucky dip and make a Christmas Mole for the top of your tree! 10.30am-4pm. Free with admission.

21&23 Dec – ALICE IN NEVERLAND at Woodley Library (21 Dec) and Wokingham Library (23 Dec), www. wokingham.gov.uk/libraries/events A musical theatre show with the Enchanted Players Theatre Company. Suitable for all the family. £5 charge per person. Pirate face painting after the performance for an additional charge. 2pm-3.15pm.

23 Dec – FAMILY ACTIVITY DAY at West Berkshire Museum, The Wharf, Newbury, RG14 5AS, 01635 519 562, www.westberks.gov.uk Christmas themed activity for all the family.

No need to book, just pop in between 10am and 3pm. The activities are aimed at 4-11 year olds but younger and older children are welcome. Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Museum entry is free. Activities are £2 per child to cover the cost of materials. Also, new activity trails available free of charge.

Centre, Woodlands Avenue, Woodley, Reading, RG5 3EU, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Over 40 stalls bursting with top quality near to new baby and children’s brands from birth to 8 years. Free parking, on site refreshments, children and buggies are welcome. £1 entry – children free.

2pm-4pm.

21 Nov – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Burnham Park Hall,

Windsor Lane, Burnham, SL1 7HR, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Over 40 stalls bursting with top quality near to new baby and children’s brands from birth to 8 years. Free parking, on site refreshments, children and buggies are welcome. £1 entry – children free.

1pm-3pm.

22 Nov – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at St Bart’s School, Andover Road, Newbury, RG14 6JP, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Over 40 stalls bursting with top quality near to new baby and children’s brands from birth to 8 years. Free parking, on site refreshments, children and buggies are welcome. £1 entry – children free.

2pm-4pm.

28 Nov – BABY & CHILDREN’S MARKET at Bracknell Leisure Centre, Bagshot Road, Bracknell, RG12 9SE, www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk Over 40 stalls bursting with top quality near to new baby and children’s brands from birth to 8 years. Free parking, on site refreshments, children and buggies are welcome. £1 entry – children free.

2pm-4pm.

28 Nov – MUM2MUM MARKET at Morgan Centre, Wellington Road, Crowthorne, Berks, RG45 7LD, www.mum2mummarket.co.uk Top quality pre-loved baby and children’s goods at a fraction of the price. 2pm-4pm If you would like details of your event to appear on our website www.familiestvw. co.uk/whatson please email us at editor@ familiestvw.co.uk. The deadline for the Jan/Feb 16 issue is 1st December.

30 Dec – MAJOR MUSTARD PRESENTS ‘THE MAGIC MUSTARD POT’ at The Nature Discovery Centre,

Thatcham, RG19 3FU, 01635 874 381, www.naturediscovery.org.uk

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Parenting

How to read with your child – and really enjoy it

By Justine Crow “Not now, darling...” is the plaintive refrain from parents - at bedtime, in the library, on the bus or any moment that you have had the audacity to put your feet up for five minutes. Your dearest progeny plonks him or herself down beside you with a picture book that you have already read aloud a hundred times.

Recently, when sorting junk in the garage I came across A Squash and a Squeeze by Julia Donaldson and I realised that I could still recite every line, years after I had read it with my child.

How can we ensure we are fresh and eager each time our loved one wants to share their reading?

And given that we know that it is not only vital for children’s intellectual development to read together but that it also benefits our own inner lives, what should we do to get better at it? Here are ten ways to truly enjoy reading with your little one.

1. Accept and celebrate the knowledge that reading with your child is part of your job description as a parent. It is there alongside cuddler, sleep-trainer and bottom wiper. The more you do it, the easier it becomes. Soon, you will be a natural performer.

2. When they are babies, choose books YOU like to read to them. They are too small to understand much but the cadence of your voice gives them comfort. You could read a cookbook aloud and they’ll be content.

3. When they are toddlers, reading together enables bonding but it also can act as an incentive: if you stay in your bed ALL night, you

7. At the library, put your phone away and suggest that each of you dig out a title. Your youngster will often pick one they already have at home but it doesn’t matter, because your special task is to discover one they’ve never seen before.

Just think how much more enthusiastic you will be to open it up.

can get into my bed in the morning for a story, how’s that?

4. The concept of ‘making time’ is an impossible ideal. We can’t magic up extra minutes to read but we can use the moments we already have.

Lots of pictures are the best way to keep a little one on the potty; submergible bath books enable hair-washing and nit-checking too.

What a bonus!

5. Keep books for daytime reading on the lowest shelf and allow them to select the book they want, no matter how many times it has been shared. If you really can’t stand it another time, have a bit of fun; read it backwards, or upside down, or in gobbledygook. Your child will soon insist it is done the right way up and before you know it, they will be reading it to you!

6. Books without text such as Clown by Quentin Blake are brilliant for sharing – encourage your toddler to tell you what is happening. Talk about what you both see.

8. When shopping together, don’t expect a young child to choose the ‘right’ book. You decide what to buy while your child rummages through the books on the play-table. Then read one together before you leave. Once they can actually read, allow them to choose their own books.

9. Books for bedtime should be chosen by you and kept higher up on the shelves. Make this a time for your child to listen and be calm and contented - though questions should be answered. Then, it’s lights out!

10. As they grow older, you can be more adventurous and find longer stories, like fairy tales. Soon, you can introduce to them the novels you loved as a child. Perhaps they will want to continue reading a particular chapter book alone but they will always remember the sense of an experienced shared.

Justine Crow is the author of 'The Little Book of Nits' published by Bloomsbury. Parent of three, she owns her own bookshop with her partner, The Bookseller Crow on Hill, and is a qualified swimming teacher.

And in what little spare time she has, she also runs gastronomic writing retreat courses in France and is the food critic of The Transmitter.

Christmas Book Reviews

By Justine Crow

Nine years plus

Three to Five years

Magnus Chase & the Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan - Penguin RRP 14.99

Please Mr Panda by Steve Antony - Hodder RRP 6.99

Baby & Toddler Walter's Wonderful Web by Tim Hopgood Macmillan RRP 5.99 This sweet board book from the author of Wow! Said the Owl, is an introduction to shapes delivered with the same bold, robust flourish as the previous book.

We grown-ups are very good at demanding manners from our little people but how do we teach them? Bribery, that's how and Panda is on hand with an awful lot of naughty doughnuts.

But nobody gets any until they say: "Please!"

Six to Eight years The Not So Little Princess, Where's Gilbert? by Tony Ross & Wendy Finney Andersen RRP 5.99 The Little Princess did great work for us parents in the potty training, bedtime and pets departments. Now she is older, she stars in a new Early Reader series along with the original cast of bonkers characters from the palace.

Though she has lost her teddy, she has lost none of her zest.

Here's a fantastic new series from the writer of the Percy Jackson Adventures. This time it is Norse myths and accompanying trolls and giants that form the historical backdrop into which our hero is hurtled, to search for a weapon that has been missing for a thousand years.

12 to Teen The Rest of Us Just Live Here by Patrick Ness - Walker RRP 12.99 What if you aren't born to be a hero? What if you are just a plain old young teen preparing for a prom? What happens then? From this acclaimed author, you can be certain that the answer is right out of the ordinary.

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Festive Fun

Christmas Family Shows It’s panto season again and this year there are treats galore to be found in our local theatres. You can travel to magical worlds, meet the ugliest sisters imaginable, boo the evil villains and of course enjoy plenty of laughs along the way. Take your pick from one of these fun filled offerings: Haymarket Theatre Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NW, 01256 844 244, www.anvilarts.org.uk

2-12 Dec – THE SNOW DRAGON Billy is a spoilt young goat whose parents give him everything he wants. And what he doesn’t get from them, he steals from his friends. On New Years’ Eve, Billy is looking forward to the annual visit of the legendary Snow Dragon, who will bring him even more goodies during the night. But when Billy bumps into some hungry wolves in the forest, New Years’ Day seems a long way off. Find out how Billy escapes – and whether the Snow Dragon will bring him a present. Has Billy been naughty or nice? Tickets from £12.

Relaxed performance 10 Dec 1pm, Tickets £8.

The Wycombe Swan St. Mary St, High Wycombe, HP11 2XE, 01494 512 000, www.wycombeswan.co.uk

11 Dec – 3 Jan 2016 PETER PAN This Strictly spectacular production of Peter Pan, starring Craig Revel Horwood, flies into Wycombe this Christmas. Craig is joined by Britain’s Got Talent finalist Paul Burling and comedy ventriloquist Dawson Chance. Don’t miss this fabulous swashbuckling pantomime adventure packed with lots of laugh out loud comedy for all the family, and of course, sensational flying.

Tickets from £19-£31.50

Loddon Hall Loddon Hall Road, Twyford. Box Office: 0870 774 4262, www.twyrusdrama.org.uk

14, 15, 16 Jan 2016 THE WIZARD OF OZ Performed by Twyford & Ruscombe Theatre group, this year’s family pantomime performance is The Wizard of Oz. Contact the Box Office for details of times and ticket prices.

Crowthorne Parish Hall Heath Hill Road South, Crowthorne, RG45 7BN, Box Office Text Only: 07756 580 310, email: boxoffice@catswebsite.co.uk

26-28 Nov PUSS IN BOOTS Crowthorne Amateur Dramatics Society present Puss in Boots, a version of the traditional story with the action taking place in Holland. The show promises to be packed with comedy and music!

Bracknell Ice Rink John Nike Way, Bracknell. Box Office: 01344 789 000, www.bracknellskislope.co.uk

9-13 Dec CINDERELLA ON ICE With the long days of sunshine behind us and the dreary look of winter on the horizon, Bracknell Ice Rink will lift your mood with their performance of Cinderella, the traditional story performed on the ice. Call the box office for details of show times and ticket prices.

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The Watermill Theatre Bagnor, Newbury, RG20 8AE, 01635 460 44, www.watermill.org.uk

19 Nov-3 Jan 2016 ALICE IN WONDERLAND Celebrating the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s much-loved novel with a brand new stage adaptation of Alice in Wonderland. Join Alice in an enchanting world of talking animals, a bad tempered Queen and a Mad Hatter for an unforgettable musical adventure. Chasing a mysterious rabbit with a pocket watch, Alice tumbles down a rabbit hole and into a world of fun and adventure. There she meets the colourful characters of Wonderland and hears their fantastical tales. After a mad tea party, a curious game of croquet and a nail-biting trial to find out who stole a very special plate of jam tarts, will Alice find her way home? Tickets from £10.50 to £21.00

The Anvill Churchill Way, Basingstoke, RG21 7QR, 01256 844 244, www.anvilarts.org.uk

10 Dec -3 Jan 2016 – JACK AND THE BEANSTALK When Dame Trott sends her son Jack to market, little do they know that swapping Daisy the cow for a handful of beans will result in an overgrown beanstalk, a hungry giant, wicked henchmen and a fabulous golden treasure.

With thrilling adventures, gigantic laughs, spectacular sets and costumes, Jack and The Beanstalk promises to be a giant treat for all the family. Relaxed performance Wed 23 Dec at 2pm. Tickets from £19.50.

The Corn Exchange Market Place, Newbury, RG14 5BD, 0845 5218 218, www.cornexchangenew.com

27 Nov-3 Jan 2016 – DICK WHITTINGTON Adventure, peril and magic aplenty in the Corn Exchange’s 2015 panto! Dick Whittington is on his way to Newbury to seek his fortune in this mad adventure. Joined by his faithful cat and Sarah the cook, can Dick defeat the dastardly King Rat? And will he save his beloved Alice and live happily ever after? Tickets £16.50-£21. Concessions £15.

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts Altwood Road, Maidenhead, Box Office: 01628 788 997, www.nordenfarm.org

24 Nov-27 Dec ONE SNOWY NIGHT A tale from much loved author and Kipper creator Nick Butterworth. One winter’s night it was so cold it began to snow…..Percy the park keeper always feeds the animals in the park where he lives. But one cold winter’s night Percy finds his little friends shivering on his doorstep. They need more than food and he must find a way to help them. A snuggly, heart warming story with songs to sing along to and furry friends to meet. Tickets £11-13.

The Oakwood Centre Headley Road, Woodley, Reading, RG5 4JZ, 07580 891 904, www.ticketsource.co.uk/berzerkproductions

17-21 Dec – ALADDIN Welcome to Agrabah, City of Enchantment and the fantastic tale of the street rat who became a prince! All of your favourite characters are here in this stage adaptation of the Disney hit, including Aladdin, Jasmine, Lago, Jafar and of course, the Genie. Filled with magic, mayhem and flying carpet rides, audiences’ spirits will soar with excitement and the Academy Award winning score with songs including A Whole New World and Friend Like Me will make this a musical favourite for many years to come. Tickets from £9.75.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Festive Fun South Hill Park Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk

29 Nov – 3 Jan 2016 – SLEEPING BEAUTY

Thursday 19 Nov 2015 to Sunday 3 Jan 2016 Christmas

Loved Snow White? Couldn’t get enough of Aladdin? Why not try Sleeping Beauty! Down at the toyshop, business is bad. So bad that unless something happens soon, shop owner Maude Littlewood, her butler Charles and her wayward niece Aurora will be out on the street. Undaunted, the three of them agree to tell one last tale – Sleeping Beauty. Join them as they journey to the colourful kingdom of Euphoria. Will the evil Morgana Grimm and her Ugly Bug underlings triumph in their attempt to banish colour from the world? Will Princess Aurora sleep for 100 years? Or will brave Prince Perceforest thwart the fire breathing dragon to give her a wake up call? Tickets from £15.25, Family Tickets from £57 (2 adults and 2 children).

The Theatre Royal Windsor Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1PS, 01753 853 888, www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

2 Dec – 10 Jan 2016 CINDERELLA Theatre Royal Windsor has established itself as a firm family favourite with pantomime audiences and Windsor’s annual pantomime has a reputation for being one of the best in the UK, attracting large audience numbers to the picturesque Edwardian Theatre during its six week run. This year’s pantomime is Cinderella, the classic fairytale of a beautiful girl forced to serve her jealous dastardly Ugly Step-Sisters. Aided by the silly but loveable Buttons and a Fairy Godmother carefully watching over her, Cinderella dreams of happiness. In a dazzling production packed the glamour and glitz, from the opening song to the happy ever after ending, scenery that sets the stage alive, music, dance and infectious comedy, Cinderella is the ultimate festive feel-good pantomime to charm audiences of all ages. Starring Kevin Cruise, Steven Blakeley and Basil Brush! Tickets £14.50-£37.50

Burghfield Community Sports Association

Tickets: £21 - £10.50 Suitable for age 4 upwards

Book at watermill.org.uk Box Office 01635 46044 The Watermill Theatre and Restaurant, Bagnor, Newbury RG20 8AE

James Lane, Burghfield, RG30 3RS, www.burghfieldcsa.co.uk

6 Dec – CINDERELLA For one day only, see the classic story of Cinderella retold by the talented cast members of StageAbility Berkshire.

A family pantomime that all ages will love.

Two performances: Matinee at 3pm, Evening show at 7pm. Tickets from £8 available from www.stageability. ticketsource.co.uk

Kenton Theatre New Street, Henley, RG9 2BP, 01491 575 698, www.kentontheatre.co.uk

South Hill Park Presents

Join Jack on his amazing adventure as he climbs the beanstalk to defeat the wicked giant, save his beloved Jill and bring a happily ever after to all in Ye Olde Henley Town. Adults £20, Senior Citizens £18, Children £15, Family £42. Suitable for ages 3+

29 Dec-4 Jan 2016 – BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Presented by Henley Children’s Theatre. Prince Perfect is turned into a beast for being unkind to enchantress gypsy Rosalie. When the heroine Belle Jolie is imprisoned by him, he falls in love with her, but time is running out. Adults £12.50, Senior Citizens & Children £8.50.

The Hexagon Queen’s Walk, Reading, RG1 7UA, Box Office: 0118 960 6060, www.readingarts.com

5 Dec-3 Jan 2016 – DICK WHITTINGTON Starring CBeebies star Justin Fletcher, and back by extremely popular demand, Reading’s favourite dame Paul Morse and children’s TV presenter Kerry Newell. A swashbuckling adventure with young hero Dick who sets out on a journey to London in search of fame and fortune. Once there he discovers the streets are overrun with rats who terrorise the town night and day. With the help of his trusty cat, some hilarious antics from Dame Sarah the cook and her idle son Jack, along with a spectacular voyage to the shores of Morocco, Dick soon manages to rid London of the rats and become Lord Mayor. Tickets from £12.00

Written by Bart Lee Music by Ron McAllister

The Pantomime of your Dreams

Illustrations © Kate Ratcliffe

17-27 Dec – JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

Sun 29 Nov 2015 – Sun 3 Jan 2016 Wilde Theatre Bracknell RG12 7PA 01344 484123 www.southhillpark.org.uk

More Christmas shows and pantos at www.familiestvw.co.uk/pantomimes

BOOK NOW! Tickets selling fast

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Christmas Days Out

Where’s Santa?

A little elf has told us where Santa can be found in the run-up to Christmas so if you can’t wait until the big day, why not pop along and meet him at one of the events below. Don’t forget to book early as these events are always popular!

SANTA CRUISES WITH HOBBS OF HENLEY

Hobbs of Henley

01491 572 035, www.hobbsofhenley.com Santa Cruises are back again due to popular demand. The ever popular ‘Fred in the Shed’ will be adding some magic to the children’s entertainment and Santa will be in his grotto bearing gifts for the children. These cruises are from £11.50 per person and include mulled wine for the adults, fruit juices for the children, home made cakes and mince pies. 12th, 19th, 20th December: 11.30am-1.30pm and 2.30pm-4.30pm. Please book online early to avoid disappointment. Sailing subject to river conditions.

DAYS OUT WITH THOMAS TO MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS AT DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE Didcot Parkway Station, OX11 7NJ, 01235 817 200, www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk The perfect pre-Christmas treat for all train fans. Days out with Thomas will be running weekends from 5 Dec and also Tue 22 and Wed 23 Dec at Didcot Railway Centre. You’ll have the chance to ride behind Duck, see the Troublesome Trucks in action, meet the Fat Controller and enjoy themed activities and entertainment. The highlight of the day is sure to be a trip on carriages pulled by Thomas, to visit Father Christmas in his grotto where lucky children will receive a present. Tickets £15, 60+ years £13. Booking is essential for this very popular event. Book online at www.dayoutwiththomas.co.uk/didcot

CHRISTMAS FUN AT ODDS FARM PARK Wooburn Common, High Wycombe, HP10 0LX, 01628 520 188, www.oddsfarm.co.uk Santa is coming to Odds Farm Park on 21 and 22 Nov and then daily from 28 Nov until 24 Dec. Plus with plenty of lambs due in December there’s stacks of festive fun for the whole family, madness and mayhem from entertainers, plus all the fun of the Farm Park.

CHRISTMAS TRAIL AT CLIVEDEN

Brockhill, Bracknell Road, Warfield, Bracknell, RG42 6LH, 01344 890 667, www.oaktreegardencentre.com From November 28th to December 24, every Wednesday, Weekend & December 21st to 24th. Before meeting Santa in his grotto you will enter a magical winter wonderland where you will meet the reindeer surrounded by a magical display of lit trees & Christmas scenery. Here the elves will tell you about the magical reindeer relish, which you will be given a bag of to leave out. The elves will then show you how they make toys in their magical workshop before you meet the big man himself!

Santa’s Grotto & Winter Wonderland Visits From £12 per child and £3 per adult, Babies free.

Forbury Gardens, Reading, RG1 3EJ, 07768 857 857, www.readingwinteronice.com Forbury Gardens will be transformed from 14 Nov – 3 Jan into a winter wonderland with themed rides and attractions, stalls, festive foods and seasonal drinks such as mulled wine, hot chocolate and Bavarian beer. The main attraction is a 450m square ice rink – bigger than last year!

For children there is Santa’s Grotto open daily 12pm-5pm until Christmas Eve.

LEGOLAND WINDSOR RESORT Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY, 0871 222 2001, www.legoland.co.uk This Christmas season promises to be the most awesome yet at LEGOLAND Windsor. Father Christmas and his elves will be visiting with an extra big sack of LEGO gifts for little guests on Saturdays and Sundays from 21 November and daily from 12-23 December. As well as a visit to Father Christmas’ magical grotto, where every child will receive a free LEGO gift, guests can enjoy a jam-packed day with 15 rides and attractions including LEGO Friends Mia’s Riding Adventure. The elves will be looking for little helpers to make Christmas cards, decorate biscuits and write letters to Father Christmas. Plus don’t miss the spectacular 8 metre high LEGO Christmas tree and thousands of twinkling lights all around the resort. Tickets must be pre-booked and are £18.75 for visits in November if booked before 2 November, £25 thereafter.

Legoland

VISIT SANTA AND HIS REINDEER AT OAKTREE GARDEN CENTRE & NURSERY

Cliveden, Taplow, Maidenhead, SL6 0JA, 0844, 249 1895, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Father Christmas has left some little presents around the gardens at Cliveden. Follow the fun-packed festive activity trail to find some early stocking fillers. Bring along friends and family to share in the festive fun.

Every weekend in December until Christmas, ideal for children aged 4+. No booking required. £5 per child in addition to normal entry price.

READING WINTER ON ICE

BUCKLEBURY FARM PARK Bucklebury, RG7 6RR, 0118 971 4002, www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Christmas on the farm from 1-23 Dec. Come and see Father Christmas and take a sleigh to visit the reindeer getting ready for the big day!

Santa Cruises at Hobbs of Henley

12th, 19th and 20th December 2015

Book your tickets online today www.hobbsofhenley.com or call 01491 572035

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Thames Valley West

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Christmas Days Out

Paulton's Park

LAPLAND UK

CHOLSEY AND WALLINGFORD RAILWAY

Whitmoor Forest, Swinley Road, Ascot, SL5 8BD, www.laplanduk.co.uk LaplandUK provides an immersive theatrical experience that begins with a personalised invitation in the post for every child. On arrival, families travel along forest pathways to a snowy wonderland where they visit the Toy Factory to help the elves and Mother Christmas’ Kitchen to decorate gingerbread and gather for storytelling. Then it’s skates on at the ‘ice’ rink in the Elves Village with a chance to meet the resident huskies and reindeer, before having a personalised meeting with Father Christmas. Book in advance. 21 Nov – 24 Dec.

01491 835 067, www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com Santa Specials run on weekends from 5-20 Dec. Santa will ride on the train and each child up to the age of 8 will receive a gift. Mince pies for the adults at the Trackside Café after the ride. No need to book.

Jacksons

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND SANTA’S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND AT PAULTON’S PARK Ower, Romsey, Hants, SO51 6AL, www.paultonspark.co.uk From Sat Nov 14, Paultons Park, home to the world’s first and UK exclusive Peppa Pig World, will be will be transformed into a sparkling wonderland of twinkling illuminations, seasonal music and giant Christmas trees.

Meet Santa and his singing reindeer, Rudolph and Donner.

Along the way, children will see the elves, working hard in the Santa Claus Toy Factory and Peppa Pig and George in their winter scarves, hats and coats. After receiving a special present from Santa in his grotto, children can also visit the Park’s state-of-the-art 4D Show Street Cinema and join the adventures of Mumble the penguin in the Happy Feet 4D experience. What’s more, the recently opened Critter Creek – a land of creepy crawly creatures will be open for children to enjoy the Cat-O-Pillar rollercoaster, Expedition Express and Beastie Burrow. Selected days from Sat Nov 14 until Wed Dec 23. Tickets from £23.00 and include entrance to Santa’s Christmas Wonderland and Peppa Pig World, as well a gift for the children. All visits must be pre-booked. Selected Paultons Park rides will not be open for Santa’s Christmas Wonderland. Please check website for details.

Hyde Park, London, W2 2UH, www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Open daily from 20 Nov – 3 Jan (except Christmas Day), 10am-10pm. There’s something for all ages at London’s biggest festive attraction. The site is free to enter but tickets must be bought for most rides and activities and can get very expensive. Attractions include an outdoor ice rink, beautifully illuminated after dark, a 60m high giant observation wheel, circus shows, Magical Ice Kingdom, and Santa Land. Santa will be appearing in his grotto every day from 10am-6pm with a free present for each child, but beware the queues can get very, very long. There is also a large funfair, Christmas Markets, a Bavarian village with plenty of warming food and drink and an Ice Bar for the grown ups.

MID HANTS WATERCRESS LINE 01962 733 810, www.watercressline.co.uk The perfect way to start your Christmas! 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 120 Dec. See Santa on a steam train as you take a one hour round trip through scenic Hampshire countryside.

Santa visits every child at their seat with a special gift.

Includes white wine and mince pies for the grown ups and soft drinks for the children. Depart from Alresford on a round trip to Medstead and back, or depart from Alton on a round trip to Ropley and back. Advance booking only.

Tickets from £18, babies under 1 year £10.

Kids-n-Action

HARE HATCH (Wyvale), WINNERSH (Country Gardens), BINFIELD (Wyvale) & THATCHAM GARDEN CENTRES

Nine Mile Ride, Finchampstead, Wokingham, RG40 4HT, 0118 973 0776, www.jacksonscalifornialake.co.uk Join in the fun at Jacksons where children can meet Santa in his grotto and receive a toy to take home. Parents can warm themselves in front of the fire with mulled wine and homemade mince pies. Price £5 per child. Parents may take photos of their child. Saturdays and Sundays from 27 Nov-20 Dec and then every day from 20-24 Dec. 11am-4pm.

THE MAD HOUSE 24 South Oak Way, Lime Square, Green Park, Reading, RG2 6UL, 0118 9755 5455, www.themadhousereading.co.uk Santa will be joining in the fun at The Mad House’s annual Christmas party on Sunday 20 Dec, handing out a gift at the end of the party. For more details, prices and times visit the website.

SANTA’S GROTTO AT SOUTH HILL PARK

www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk Several local garden centres are running special breakfast and tea events where you can enjoy a meal and then join the elves to welcome Father Christmas who will help each child choose their very own present. They will also be given a Christmas tree cookie to decorate. Further details and times available on the website.

South Hill Park Arts Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7PA, 01344 484 123, www.southhillpark.org.uk From 5-24 Dec visit Santa in his grotto and give him your wish list. Meet some of his elves who will help you make your very own Christmas decorations - and they might even tell you a story or two! Book at the same time as South Hill Park’s production of Sleeping Beauty and pay just £10 for children to see Santa and get adults in FREE. Call the Box Office for this combined offer.

DOBBIES GROVELANDS GARDEN CENTRE 166 Hyde End Road, Shinfield, RG2 9ER, 0118 988 4822, www.dobbies.com Santa’s making his way back to Dobbies for 2015 and there’ll be an array of activities to celebrate. This year he’ll be arriving by fire engine! There’ll be a magical Christmas parade and plenty of fun children’s activities. Once Santa has made his grand entrance he’ll be taking up residency in the in-store grotto. Entrance on 22nd Nov is on a first come, first service basis, or book a time slot in advance from 23rd Nov on the website.

JACKSONS CALIFORNIA LAKE

KENNET SHOPPING CENTRE KIDS-N-ACTION 680 Eskdale Road, Winnersh Triangle, Reading, RG41 5TS, 0118 968 0983, www.kids-n-action.com Visit Santa in his grotto every day at Kids-n-Action from 17-24 December. Free with entry, parents will be able to choose a present to buy.

01635 40748, Newbury, RG14 5EN, www.kennetshopping.co.uk Father Christmas will be arriving in style in a Batmobile and will be joined by several superheroes and film characters this year. Watch them parade around The Kennet Centre from 10am and then meet Father Christmas. From 10am on 12&13 Dec.

Send your child a ‘Letter from Santa’ and support the NSPCC To help share the magic of Christmas the NSPCC has teamed up with Santa to send personalised letters out to children. Each of Santa’s letters come with beautiful illustrations and stories that are tailored to specific age groups. Parents can choose whether the letter is signed by ‘Santa’ or ‘Father Christmas’, and each letter comes with an age appropriate game for children to play. You can now add a unique Post Script message and you will also receive a complimentary pack with games, recipes and activities. Plus, there is the option to choose to send a special poem written to celebrate Baby’s First Christmas – a keepsake to treasure for years to come. For a suggested donation of only £5 parents can delight their own children whilst helping others who are less fortunate. Request your Letter from Santa up until 22nd December at www.nspcc.org.uk/santa

More Christmas Activities at www.familiestvw.co.uk/whatson

Book Your

Santa

Magical Christmas & Wonderland Experience Plus Meet The

Reindeer

oaktreegardencentre.com Thames Valley West

PAGE 27

Christmas Ideas

Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide Not even started your Christmas shopping yet? Fear not…Families has come up with the pick of the best presents for every member of the family this Christmas, with an idea to suit every taste and budget.

Best gifts... for Babies Glass Christmas Angel Bauble, £10, My 1st Years

Personalised Christmas Sack, £22, Harrow and Green

With a beautiful angel inside, this glass bauble is a great gift for baby’s first Christmas. Engraved with a message over three lines with up to 20 characters on each line.

For when a socking just won’t do, these quality hessian sacks can be personalised with your child’s name and left under the tree on Christmas Eve. It has stencilled wording on it with ‘Delivery Date 25th December’ as a reminder to Santa.

Christmas Pudding Leggings, £11, Blade and Rose How cute will your baby look crawling around on Christmas Day in these seasonal striped leggings with their cheeky Christmas pudding on the tush! They’re made from soft fabric with a thick waistband for comfort and you can add matching socks, a bandana bib and a hat.

Pirate Ship Personalised Illuminated Canvas, from £55.95, Illuminated Canvas A picture for your baby’s nursery wall but with a twist; not only can you have your child’s name on the canvas but it lights up, showing an illuminated window in the ship and on the masts.

Maya Organic Peppy Five Stackers, £25.95, Igloo Kids These stacking toys are hand made from quality wood and finished with childsafe paint and lacquer. Sweet to look at, your baby will also enjoy taking the stacks apart and gradually learning to put them together again.

Bath time can always be fun with this neat set of bath toys that not only amuse your baby but help to get her clean too. There’s a sprinkler scoop with a chunky colourful handle, a wash mit with a shaker in the middle, a brush to practice hair grooming, a rattle and a wearable wrist toy. They are all BPA, PVC and phthalate free.

Thames Valley West

French and Spanish Language CD’s, £11.95 plus p&p, Bilinguasing Bilinguasing’s language CD’s are suitable for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and primary school-aged children. Each 14-track CD includes bilingual reworks of classics including Horsey Horsey, I Can Sing a Rainbow, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and more! Each verse is sung first in English and then in Spanish or French.

Designed to familiarise babies and young children with the sounds of the Spanish or French language whilst being fun for all the family!

Rainbow in my Room Nightlight, £25, Debenhams This coloured projector sends a rainbow onto the wall or ceiling of your child’s room and is great if your child is a little scared of the dark. It has two modes: a fully beamed rainbow or a more soothing glow that fades in and out. It has an auto shut off feature and is battery powered.

Magic Elf Door, £20, The Magic Door Store

Five Piece Bath Fun Toy, £12.99, Brother Max

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Best gifts... for Children

Creating a whole world of imagination and anticipation, these sweet doors can be put at the bottom of a wall or even on a tree in the garden. Your child will love leaving little gifts for the Elf or Fairy and who knows – they may even get a response!

Personalised Disney Story Book, £11.99, Labels 4 Kids Labels4Kids.com provides story books with Disney Frozen Fever, Disney Princesses and many more. Personalise them with your child‘s name and perhaps those of their best friends or cousins and let them be part of an epic story. A great gift idea for Christmas and now available on the Labels4Kids website.

Order early to get them before Christmas - these adventure books are custom made and take up to 2-3 weeks for delivery. Get yours today from www.labels4kids.com/fam2 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Christmas Ideas Best gifts... for Mums Autumn/Winter Tote, £35, Gift Pop Exclusive to Gift Pop, you won’t find these 3 in 1 totes anywhere else. Made from soft PU leather, these bags fit perfectly over your shoulder and are big enough to hold all your stuff. Inside you’ll find a clutch/cosmetic bag with detachable strap and a small purse with zip which can be attached to the inside of the bag. Available in metallic gold/ silver, orange, red or grey.

Luxury Mummy Spa Kit, £39.99, Love Boo

Best gifts... for Dads Chalfin Boxer Shorts, £32.95, Chalfin.co.uk These are traditional looking boxer shorts with a twist! The hidden support inside these 100% cotton British made shorts is the invention of entrepreneur Jobie Chalfin who designed them after her partner could not find comfortable underwear.

Great for guys who like the support of tighty-whities but with the look of a traditional boxer.

Haig Club Scotch Whisky, £44.95, Haig

If he fancies himself as a David Beckham type, this will be his tipple of choice.

From Scotland’s oldest whisky distillery, this is smooth and pleasing on the palate and looks great too.

Car Driving Day, from £495, Virgin Experience Days

A great gift for mums, this is the ultimate home pampering kit. With three products inside – Bosom Buddy, Body Wash and Miracle Oil, they will leave skin glowing and firmed and they can help prevent stretch marks. They are safe for use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.

If you have a special gift in mind and he’s a car lover, what better way to say you love him than with a car driving experience that will blow his mind? He can take a Ferrari or Lambourghini around a racetrack with expert tuition for the right speed and turning point.

A Gentleman’s Guide to Beard and Moustache Management, £6.95, by Chris Martin If he’s gone all trendy Hoxton Man with a bushy beard and tufty moustache, make sure he knows how to groom with this tongue-in-cheek book. It does actually have some great tips on trimming, waxing and maintaining facial fuzz as well as a guide to famous hair celebrities from Marx to Des Lynam!

Fitbit Charge Large Activity Tracker, £84.99, Fitbit Mini Indoor Herb Garden, £24.95, Gifts Direct With the increase in popularity of gardening and cookery programmes on the television, this sweet little garden will help you create your very own tiny allotment. It comes with three tiny plant pots with drainage holes that fit neatly in the fence. Inside the shed are tiny snippers, soil pellets and a packet of three kinds of seeds; coriander, basil and oregano. The shed can be used to store more seeds for next time.

If he’s trying to get fit, this will help keep track of activity and calories. On a chunky wristband this tracks steps taken, distance travelled, calories burned, floors climbed and active minutes. It even helps monitor your sleep patterns.

Classic Coffret of Diptyque Candles, £60, Space NK This is a luxurious set of candles and though there are cheaper brands, the intense perfume of these lasts well and is good value for money. There’s Figuer, the scent of fig wood, Baies which has bouquets of roses and blackcurrant leaves, and Roses, smelling like a freshly picked bouquet.

Portable Phone Charger, £19.99, Anker Easy to pop into a pocket or bag, this tiny charger will hold a full phone’s worth of charge to use just when you need it. Then simply recharge with a USB plugged into your computer.

Comes in several colours.

Thames Valley West

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Christmas Gifts

Keeping it Local Here are a few of our favourite gifts from local businesses

Personalised presents to treasure forever from The Little Print Co. If you are looking for a unique and personal gift for someone this year then The Little Print Co in Reading will be able to help. They produce hand made gifts and keepsakes from fingerprints, handprints, footprints, drawings and handwriting. With fingerprint jewellery starting at just £35 there is something to suit everyone and every budget, with gifts that will be treasured for years to come. Orders are being taken until 5th December for Christmas for jewellery, or 25th November for casts. Pop over to their facebook page www.facebook.com/thelittleprintco, or call Kelly on 01189 756382 for more information.

Make your tree sparkle with a personalised tree decoration The Dinky Fingerprint Company can create beautiful, stainless steel Christmas decorations, engraved with messages, names and dates. They can also be personalised with hands, feet, paws or fingerprints and you can even engrave a favourite drawing. They have a mirror shine finish, which will add some extra twinkle to the tree and they are a great Christmas gift.

They also sell a wide range of personalised jewellery, including on-trend men’s leather bracelets and engraved Pandora style beads and jewellery.

To create a personalised gift that is unique as you are, go to www.dinkyfingerprintjewellery.co.uk or call 01628 623386.

Handcrafted chocolate delights from Tilly’s Treats Tilly’s Treats is a local business founded by entrepreneur mum Sam from her kitchen in Bradfield and has earned a reputation for producing delicious, high quality chocolate gifts which are sold at markets and fairs around the region. Sam also hosts chocolate making classes at Michelin starred restaurant L’Ortolan. Items can be personalised and made to order.

For more information visit facebook.com/tillystreatschocolates

Gifts with extra ‘pop’ Gift Pop was founded by businesswoman and mum Hannah Foster from her kitchen table on wet and miserable morning in 2014. Hannah had a vision to create a boutique selling a collection of vibrant, funky and unusual gifts that she herself would choose to buy for her family and friends. Hannah runs her business from her home in Yattendon, West Berkshire, and sells online as well as at various country fairs and markets. The Gift Pop boutique is packed with individual, affordable pieces including bags, necklaces, clothing and accessories. Hannah says, ”We all deserve to feel special and I believe in everything I sell.” www.giftpop.co.uk

PAGE 30

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2015

Festive Fun

Dear Santa...

So your children have spent the past three months constructing increasingly long and complicated Christmas wishlists (glow-in-thedark Barbie, platinum-plated X-Box, inflatable yurt) while you’ve looked long and helplessly on, wondering why parents can’t put in their own special requests for the festive season. So in honour of stressed-out mums everywhere, Families Thames Valley West has put together the following parental wishlist for the 12 most important moments of Christmas. By Alison Hathaway.

One Dear Santa, please let my husband return safely from his 48-hour Christmas work party and not be arrested for impersonating a suicidal reindeer outside the local tapas bar at four in the morning.

Two Please let Amazon Prime fulfil their promises of overnight delivery with optional gift-wrapping. Or there will Hell to Pay. Three Please let the Christmas tree not catch fire due to dodgy Korean fairy lights like it did last year and fuse all electrics in the house resulting in three dozen undercooked mince pies and a badly singed miniature Norwegian Pine.

Four Please let the mammoth Ocado delivery I booked back in August with catering provisions for 32 relatives arrive safely and not be affected by adverse weather conditions, lightning strikes, global food shortages or other

pointing out that his house doesn’t even have a chimney. So there.

Seven Please let Uncle Bernard not eat too many Brussels sprouts. Or Aunt Mavis drink too much festive sherry.

Eight Please let me not receive yet another scented candle in the PTA Secret Santa, but rather a bottle of anything not less than ten per cent proof in any shade of red or white.

Nine Please let Uncle Bernard not argue with Aunt Mavis over exactly what happened to Great-Aunt Mary’s silver candlesticks. Or for Aunt Mavis to ask sarcastically what the strange smell in the room might be. Or for Uncle Bernard to retort that at least he for one has not been over-doing the Amontillado so badly that he can no longer stand up. Or for Aunt Mavis, attempting to disprove the accusation, to fall headfirst into the horseradish sauce. Like she did last year.

Ten Please let there be not too much washing up.

Eleven Please let my husband not intervene with a carving knife at the height of Uncle Bernard and Aunt Mavis’s endless squabbling. Or for my parents to summon the fire brigade to extinguish the out-of-control Christmas pudding soaked in brandy. Or for my son to chisel a hole in the living room wall attempting to locate a non-existent chimney. Like they all did last year.

Twelve Please let there be a Terry’s Chocolate Orange and a bottle of Chardonnay left over at the end of it.

Or there will be Hell to Pay. Alison Hathaway’s new novel, Class – a tale of twisted love, even more twisted parents, PTA politics and how to cook the perfect mashed potatoes – is out now on Amazon Kindle (bit.ly/classkindle). Follow Alison Hathaway on Twitter @ChalfenMagna or visit her at www.AlisonHathaway.co.uk for news and special free book giveaways.

on ti ti pe m Co

ANDY DAY

acts of God lest I find myself rushing about Sainsbury’s like a headless turkey at 6pm on Christmas Eve desperately searching for leftover mini-sausages wrapped in bacon.

Five Please let the kids wake up no earlier than 5am on Christmas morning. And for the roast potatoes not to come out black on one side and raw on the other. And for my parents not to forget the Christmas turkey, obliging us all to eat fishfingers instead. Like they did last year.

Six Please let my know-it-all teenage niece Chloe not let slip to my six-yearold son that there is no such person as Father Christmas and that the pile of badly Sellotaped presents was not left

by Santa and his merry elves but by my son’s very own parents after 17 undercooked mince pies and one-toomany glasses of cherry brandy. Whilst

Win a signed copy of the new children’s album by Andy Day, as seen on CBeebies

We have 3 copies of ‘Who Invited this Lot’ the new children’s album from Andy Day, star of the CBeebies show, ‘Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures’.

Featuring rapping robots, footballing dinosaurs, pirates and ninja pigs the album is performed

by Andy and his band, ‘Andy and the Odd Socks’. Comic influences such as Spike Milligan are mixed with storytelling classics like Jackanory which play out through a broad range of musical styles …all finished off with a large dollop of tongue in cheek.

The whole family will love it!

The album costs £7.99 and is available from Andy’s website, www.andyday.tv To enter, just visit, www.familiestvw.co.uk/competitions today.

Closing date Dec 10th.

PAGE 31

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0118 971 4002 info@buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Latest research shows that just five minutes of exercise in a “green space” such as a farm park can boost physical and mental health.

Researchers at the University of Essex looked at evidence from 1,250 people in 10 studies and found fast improvements in mood and self-esteem from exercise in a green space

rstep oo d r ou y on t h g ri , It’s a world away

At Bucklebury Farm Park, you can run, jump, swing, go-kart, ramble and relax in the fresh air all year round.

You can feed our friendly farm animals and watch the deer in the park.

www.buckleburyfarmpark.co.uk Sat nav postcode: RG7 6RR

Printed by Warners Midlands Plc. Copyright Families Thames Valley West October 2015. Families Thames Valley West is part of a group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West London. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.