Families Warwickshire Issue 17 May-June 2014

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May/June 2014 Issue 17

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warwickshire

Spring Outdoors Party Planner Homework Advice

See ad on page 3

The really useful magazine for parents

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk

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Contents

Issue 17 | May/June 2014 | Families Warwickshire

In This Issue

3 4 7 8 q t y

News

Mums in Business Party Planner Education Clubs and Classes What’s On Twitter: @familieswarks www.facebook.com/ familieswarwickshire

Contact details

Call: Claire Jones on 01926 335004 E: editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Design by Caroline Smith www.carolinesmithdesign.co.uk Cover by Linda Scannell www.lindascannell.com All content © 2014 Families Warwickshire Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine for parents, covering Stratfordon-Avon and Warwick Districts with 22,000 copies. Towns covered include Stratfordupon-Avon, Warwick, Leamington Spa and Kenilworth, plus Studley, Alcester, Bidford, Henley-in-Arden, Wellesbourne, Welford-onAvon, Shipston-on-Stour, Southam and lots of the smaller villages in between.

Advertise with us and reach 40,000+ local parents and carers from just £30 a month!

Next issue: July/August 2014 Main features: Summer Holidays Deadline: Friday 6 June Families Warwickshire is part of the Families Group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. We take every care in preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of the advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the content, nor for any consequence.

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Share your stories

How to burn kids’ energy

Spring is a great time of year with longer days and everything around us literally bursting back to life after winter, including our children. See page 4 for some inspiration on how to burn their seemingly continuous supply of energy! Back by popular demand this issue is the handy pull-out party planner on page 9, full of ideas for those all-important birthdays.

Have lots of family fun this spring!

Best wishes

Claire

This May sees the return of National Share-A-Story Month, an annual celebration of the power of storytelling and story sharing. Run by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups, Share-A-Story Month is a fantastic opportunity to bring children and stories together, with a whole host of events running across the country.

The theme for 2014 is ‘Imagination and Inventiveness’, celebrating with Dahl & Dahl and Puffin Publishers the 50th Anniversary of the publication of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Check out the website for plenty of ideas, activity packs, posters and competition prizes. www.fcbg.org.uk/ national-share-a-story-month

Don’t forget Father’s Day on Sunday 15 June 7.30am

Heartbreak on tour

Leamington-based theatre company, Heartbreak Productions, will be embarking on its nationwide tour again this summer, performing three different plays throughout the UK. The summer tour has grown since the first one took place in 1991 and now visits towns and cities from Musselburgh in Scotland to Bangor in Northern Ireland. Peter Pan and the Lost Boys is the first show and will be performed on home turf at the Jephson Gardens in Leamington Spa on 11 and 12 June. Other local venues include Hill Close Gardens and St John’s House in Warwick, and Charlecote Park. See the website for dates and to book tickets. www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

News

More sweet success for Cleverpops

These are exciting times for local healthy lollipop manufacturer after a successful first year of sales. Cleverpop, a sugar and sweetener-free lollipop, has been selling really well online and through independent retailers – from sweet shops and health food stores to gyms and schools, as well as at dentists and pharmacies.

Fingerprint Fairy

“We’re thrilled with the feedback from our customers as they tell us how welcome it is to have a truly healthy treat!” says Louise Carr-Smith, local mum and MD of Clever Sweets Ltd, “It’s a challenging time when parents have to navigate their way through all the bad choices on offer.”

We should start seeing Cleverpops in local stores soon as Louise now has a team of distributors to sell into the bigger retailers. You can still order the lollipops online and take advantage of great prices as well as finding out more about the guilt-free treats - keep your eyes peeled for the new look website. New flavours are being introduced this year and Cleverpops wants you to join in. Visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/cleverpops and let them know your favourite flavours!

mail@fingerprintfairy.co.uk

07903204895

www.fingerprintfairy.co.uk

Find out more about Fingerprint Fairy, Kate Hunter, in an interview with her on page 7.

Cleverpops will be at The Stratford Food Festival on 30 May–1 June so pop along and see them there! www.cleversweets.co.uk

Go AL FRESCO with a Carluccio’s picnic

This summer, make your al fresco escape in true Italian style with a delicious Carluccio’s picnic hamper. Simply collect on the day and enjoy the true taste of Italy in your chosen patch of green.

Priced at £45, each picnic hamper serves two and contains generous portions of delicious regional Italian dishes, made fresh on the day and presented in a smart and reusable cool-bag. In Italy, picnics tend to be a family affair – something Carluccio’s hasn’t forgotten with their addition of a children’s picnic. Treat the bambini to their very own individual picnic for £10, packed full of fuss-free and healthy food.

Each picnic is packed in its own individual box and features slices of mild Milanese salami, celery and carrot sticks, crunchy maize breadsticks, tuna mayonnaise for dipping and a delicious pizzette. A tasty dish of beef and aubergine meatballs in a chunky tomato sauce will prove a hit so hands off parents! To finish, a chocolate sponge bear with smartie buttons should keep the kids happy, whilst a piece of fresh fruit and freshly squeezed juice ensures they’ll get some of their five a day.

To avoid disappointment, order your picnic hampers at least 24 hours in advance from your local Carluccio’s in Leamington Spa and Stratford-upon-Avon. T: Leamington 01926 889587 T: Stratford 01789 267424 www.carluccios.com

“A magical evening out.” The Stage

The UK’s No.1 school holiday day camps

Fun and affordable childcare in the school holidays

Book online at www.supercamps.co.uk or call 01235 467300

Guide Dogs Open Day and car boot Saturday 19 July 11am - 4pm Dog shows, sensory tunnel, children’s entertainment, bouncy castle, stalls and much more.

Entry

£2

donation

Guide Dogs Training School, Warwick New Road, Leamington, CV32 6AH

Peter Pan

Pride & Prejudice

MACBETH and the Lost Boys Performances throughout the UK - see the website for venues, dates, times and how to book

www.heartbreakproductions.co.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004 ad design.indd 1

For more information contact: graham.kensett@guidedogs.org.uk or call on 0845 372 7344 7212 04/14

Registered charity in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979)

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How to burn kids’ energy Spring is finally here, May half term is around the corner and the long summer holidays are approaching. It’s a great time for kids to be kids! Get them climbing trees outside rather than climbing the walls indoors! There are so many things to do at this time of year, from parks and play centres to playing in your own back garden! Check out our guide to burning off some of your kids’ energy. visit a local National Trust property and let off steam. Take part in a variety of trails, activities and outdoor games.

Here are just a few ideas: play hide and seek in the trees at Packwood, follow the woodland adventure trail at Upton and the nature trail at Baddesley Clinton, play outdoor games and have fun in the playground at Coughton Court and run round the giant grass spiral at Charlecote Park. prepare for battle at one of our historic castles. Climb the ramparts at Warwick and explore the ruins at Kenilworth! A fantastic day out for all knights and princesses! visit a museum. Museums offer a huge range of activities at weekends and during school holidays, almost all of which are free.

Don’t think that they’re quiet or sedentary activities – most of them run children’s workshops throughout the holidays, some of which can be very energetic! Discover how children lived and played in Victorian times at St John’s Museum in Warwick, or go further back in time at Roman Alcester and explore everyday life in a Roman town.

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go geocaching – treasure hunting using a GPS to find a hidden treasure.

pack a picnic and head to the park.

Acres of room to run around in, trees to climb and most with children’s playgrounds. Best of all, they are free! some have paddling pools too – try Victoria Park in Leamington Spa, St Nicholas Park in Warwick and The Recreation Ground at Stratford-upon-Avon.

At Abbey Fields in Kenilworth, there’s a heated outdoor pool! be tourists for the day and explore towns and villages you’ve not been to before! You might discover new parks and there’s bound to be a shop or café that sells ice-creams! if the weather is not so great, why not try an indoor swimming pool, go-karting or even ice skating? Indoor play centres can be great value for money if you get there early and stay for most of the day!

make up your own games! It’s creative, you’ll have great fun with your kids, and it’s completely free. Organise a treasure hunt in the park, set up an obstacle course in the garden, invite friends over and have a trampolining competition or give them a scavenger hunt to get stuck into. Pitch a tent, fill the paddling pool and have a water fight! if it’s bucketing down, there’s still plenty of fun to be had (and energy to be expended) indoors. Have a Games Day and challenge your kids to get through a number of board games or table tennis sessions in a day. Make dens or castles out of cardboard boxes, then decorate them.

Have a disco – all you need is your best dancing queen outfit and an iPod. Treasure hunts can be just as fun indoors as out, or you can even get the kids running up and down the stairs if you’re really stuck! Make a movie or build a den or just put on the wellies and waterproofs and go splashing about in the rain!

Useful websites

www.nationaltrust.org.uk www.warwick-castle.com www.english-heritage.org.uk/kenilworthcastle https://sites.google.com/site/romanalcester2/home-1 www.warwickdc.gov.uk/leisure www.stratford.gov.uk/leisure www.geocaching.com

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Carla’s Day Out at

All Things Wild

All Things Wild Nature Centre At The Domestic Fowl Trust

My family had a brilliant day out when we went to All Things Wild. We spent the whole day there as there was so much to do and lots of animals to meet. In the reptile room, we touched a bearded dragon, a royal python and a leopard gecko and learnt that leopard geckos have fat stores in their tails. They can lose their tails when they need to run away quickly and the tail just grows back!

There were more animals outside and we stroked some of the furry ones in the barn, including donkeys, cheeky goats and guinea pigs. We watched the ferret racing which was great fun as we were all cheering them on! Outside there’s a go-kart track with big and small go-karts – my mum joined in and we raced each other round and round! Then we went to the Step Through Time dinosaur field, full of life size models of dinosaurs.

They looked so real, we kept expecting them to roar and start chasing us!

ALL THINGS WILD AT THE DOMESTIC FOWL TRUST STATION ROAD, HONEYBOURNE, EVESHAM, WR11 7QZ

01386833083

WWW.ALLTHINGSWILD.CO.UK

The staff at All Things Wild were very kind and taught me lots of things I didn’t know.

It would be a brilliant place for a school trip because it’s so much fun and you learn a lot. I would definitely recommend it to other families because it’s great!

I hope we go back in the summer holidays (hint hint mum!)

For more information, visit www.allthingswild.co.uk

Running free at Kenilworth Castle

Running, climbing, scrambling, clambering, swinging, vaulting, jumping, rolling and grass sledging! Kenilworth Castle is a great place to let kids run free and get plenty of fresh air. We paid a visit one sunny Sunday in March and, apart from a picnic break, the only time we sat down was for an ice-cream later on! We had lots of fun exploring the ruins, playing hide and seek, and collecting stamps for the trail. A great day out!

www.english-heritage.co.uk/kenilworthcastle

Turn over the page for a great recipe to give your kids a much needed energy boost! www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

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THE BENEFITS OF

BIKRAM YOGA

Whizzy Bars

A fantastic energy boost and picnic favourite for kids.

I use a microwave for melting so that little hands can easily help. They’ll particularly like drizzling the chocolate and licking the spoon!

Ingredients

140g butter 80g soft brown sugar 4tbsp golden syrup 200g porridge oats 50g raisins 2tbsp sesame seeds 2tbsp mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower etc.)

8 dried apricots snipped into pieces 50g dark chocolate

Method

Butter and line an 8” square tin. Preheat the oven to 160C. 1. Melt the butter, sugar and syrup in the microwave for 2 mins, in 1min bursts stirring in between.

2. Stir in the rest of the ingredients.

3. Pour the mixture into the tin and press down with the back of a spoon.

4. Bake in the oven for 35 minutes.

5. Mark out with a knife while still warm.

6. When they are cold melt the dark chocolate in the microwave. Drizzle using a teaspoon or a sandwich bag with corner snipped off.

7. Leave the chocolate to set and then wrap for a day out.

All the Good Stuff It is great to offer a snack with hidden health benefits. Replace that energy with all the good stuff.

• • • •

Oats – a great soluble fibre that is a slow release energy Mixed seeds – a brilliant source of protein, zinc and magnesium Raisins and dried apricots – high in fibre and iron Dark chocolate – full of antioxidants

Recipe supplied by Abi MacFarlane, Trainee Nutritionist. Read her blog: amacfarlane.wordpress.com

Mums and Dads !!!

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I have incredible work from home opportunities and I’m looking for 3 types of people: RETAILERS - sales/customer care/product recommenders earning £300-£500 per month TEAM LEADERS - supporting a team of retailers earning £800-£1,500 per month BUSINESS DEVELOPERS - expanding teams throughout the UK, Europe and global - mentoring team leaders, training, support earning £5,000-£20,000 per month plus benefits Flexible hours to suit, no boss, no staff, no targets

Contact Debbie Nwangwa 07814 264669 performsuccessglobal@gmail.com Perform Success Global

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Dav Heyre runs Bikram Yoga Warwickshire and is an instructor at the Wharf Street studio in Warwick. A firm believer that practicing Bikram is life-changing, Dav really does practice what he preaches! Here he tells us more about this type of yoga and the benefits it can bring: “Bikram Yoga is a series of 26 yoga postures and 2 breathing exercises derived from Hatha Yoga performed over 90 minutes in a room heated to approximately 40°C. The heat increases muscle relaxation and blood circulation, and minimises the risk of injury.

At Home Marion Burns, local children’s hairdresser, now manages a new salon called ‘At Home’ in Warwick’s Cape Road. As well as running her own business ‘Kindest Cut Children’s Hair’ from there, other local mobile stylists also use the space. With its unique décor, the studio has a very easy-going atmosphere – you can help yourself to coffee and tea, bring your lunch, give your children snacks etc. If you have an appointment and need to bring your children along with you, it’s not a problem.

Alternatively, you can book a late evening appointment. Marion has a fantastic way with children and is experienced in coping with the challenges that some may bring. Many of her regulars have been clients since they were small, including one who is a member of popular rock band, The Vamps, and who won’t let anyone other than Marion touch his hair!

“Wow! The first time my almost 4 year old son has actually enjoyed having his hair cut and laughed lots in the process! My 2 year old daughter enjoyed it too! Totally agree that Marion has a way with children that puts them totally at ease. We will be back!”

“This lady is fantastic. She managed to cut my awkward 2½ year old’s hair. His hair is fantastic - thank you, thank you.”

Call Marion on 07547 174592 or pop in 155 Cape Road, Warwick (next to Top Shop)

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

It also strengthens the cardiovascular system and flushes toxins from the body through sweating. The benefits of Bikram Yoga are many and endless. It can help with a range of conditions from thyroid problems to weight loss, stress to insomnia, diabetes to knee problems, kidney conditions to heart disease, depression to blood pressure, and arthritis to back pain. The postures work every part of your body down to a cellular level, allowing you to maintain exceptional health for years to come.”

Bikram Yoga is designed for everyone of any age, size or shape and with any condition or problem. Dav explains that you really need to regularly practice 3–4 classes per week to start seeing the benefits. Beginners are encouraged to start slowly and take it easy for the first few classes. Many people start to feel the benefits straight away and it usually takes ten classes for your body to start to understand the poses. According to one of Dav’s students, “A Bikram Yoga class a day keeps the doctor away!”

To read a longer article on Bikram Yoga and its benefits, visit www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk To find out more about Bikram Yoga Warwickshire, visit www.bikramyogawarwickshire.co.uk or call 01926 495312

Mums in Business Kate Hunter – Fingerprint Fairy 1 Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m passionate about art and always knew I’d work with my hands in some way or another. I’ve moved house more than sixteen times in my life and it’s given me a strong sense that your life is your own to change how you see fit. I’ve retrained and diversified a number of times, all of which I feel have added to my skill set. Before starting up Fingerprint Fairy I worked as an IT consultant.

2 What is Fingerprint Fairy?

Fingerprint Fairy specialises in silver memento jewellery. Primarily this is jewellery that captures the fingerprint of your loved one in silver, but I also work with hand and footprint images, children’s drawings and even paw prints.

It takes a lot of organisation. I’m quite strict with myself so when I’m working, I’m working and when I’m with my family, I don’t get distracted by work.

I have a workshop which helps to separate me from the rest of the house. I also have to remain relatively flexible as demand increases during busy seasons and the kids’ needs change regularly.

3 How did you get started?

You’re never too old, never too bad, never too late and never too sick to start from scratch once again.

I started in a small way, making jewellery for friends and family, but soon realised there was a demand for my work. I refined my product, created a business plan, set up my website and started to take orders.

does the future hold for 4 What the business?

I’m currently working with some new retail establishments. I’m keen to grow the business in a manageable way and I refuse to compromise on quality.

Tel: 01926 495312

www.bikramyogawarwickshire.co.uk

e m o H At

do you fit work around 6 How family life?

Friendly local hair salon where you really feel at home.

advice would you give 7 What other mums looking to work for

themselves?

All the boring stuff is really important.

Get a firm hold on your figures; spend time with your spreadsheets. Keep an up-to-date business plan. Know your customer and your business.

See Fingerprint Fairy’s advert on page3.

is the best bit about 5 What what you do?

includes The Kindest Cut Children’s Hairdresser

“Marion is a brilliant hairdresser and really knows how to put children at ease.”

Great prices, professional stylists, late nights, very family friendly.

T: 07547 174592 or pop in

I enjoy meeting my customers and receiving their feedback. A lot of customers say that my jewellery helps them to feel close to their children when they’re apart that’s pretty special. I also have the honour of creating jewellery for parents who’ve lost a child.

I feel very privileged to be able to provide them with a lasting memento.

155 Cape Road, Warwick (next to Top Shop)

www.fingerprintfairy.co.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

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Party Planner

Stagecoach

Pre-schoolers Baby Sensory

T: 07989 502712 www.babysensory.com Stimulating parties for babies, with a huge range of activities.

Venues Hatton Country World

Dark Lane, Hatton CV35 8XA T: 01926 843411 www.hattonworld.com Admission to farm and soft play, party bags, meal and more.

Ragley Hall

Alcester B49 5NJ T: 01789 762090 www.ragleyhall.com Watersports, adventure playground, party room, picnic, barbeque – and lots more!

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids

Jam Jam Boomerang

Woodhams Road, Middlemarch Business Park, Coventry CV3 4FX T: 024 7630 3893 www.jamjamboomerang.co.uk Three packages – Pre Schoolers, Silver and Gold – for a 2-hour party.

The Adventure Zone

68 Somers Road, Rugby CV22 7DH T: 01788 579561 www.theadventurezone.co.uk Standard, Deluxe and VIP packages, from £7.95 per child.

The Play Farm

Boogie Bugs

T: Annie 07702 261907 www.boogiebugclub.co.uk A mix of live performance, songs, dancing and games.

Calypso Kids

T: Emma-Jane 07890 399162 E: emmajane@ calypsokids.co.uk www.calypsokids.co.uk Invite Calypso the Frog to your little one’s birthday party for buckets of musical fun. Feel the excitement as the children wait to see what is in his lily pad. Play 5 different percussion instruments to your favourite songs, shake the pom poms, twirl the ribbons and dive under the parachute. Calypso Kids parties are especially created for children aged 1-5 years (the big kids always join in too!) Enjoy 45 minutes of interactive, musical fun with balloons for your guests and a present for the birthday child - all for £75.00 (up to 20 children).

Stratford Marina, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6YY T: 01789 415088 www.sharkeyscutsforkids.co.uk/ locations/avon Princess and Pirate makeover parties.

Wild hairstyles, disco dancing and games.

5 Berrington Road, Leamington Spa CV31 1NB T: 01926 425601 www.playfarm.co.uk Packages include pizza making, disco fever, and princesses and knights party.

The Open Door Café

Hampton Magna, Warwick CV35 8SA T: 01926 410446 www.opendoorcafe.org.uk Café available for hire. Catering and entertainment can be included.

Tiny Tim’s Children’s Centre, Whitefriars Lane, Coventry CV1 2DT T: 024 7622 8254 www.tinytimcentre.co.uk Small venue with good café, all profits go to charity.

The Pirate Party Boat

Leisure Centres

T: Becky 07934 610430 www.mess-around.co.uk/ stratfordvenues.html Messy play parties for ages 0-4.

Everyone Active

Monkey Music

Nr Stratford-upon-Avon T: 01789 267795 or 07970 289114 www.theatre-marine.co.uk Adventure on the high seas (River Avon) to discover lost treasure!

The Wonder Bus

T: Jennie on 024 7633 1077 or 07765 240448 www.thewonderbus.co.uk Soft play and party food on double decker bus that comes to you!

Umberslade Farm Park

Butts Lane, Tanworth-in-Arden B94 5AE T: 01564 742251 www.umberslade.com Tractor and pony rides, meet the animals, meal and more.

Soft Play Cheeky Chimps

3 Cattell Road, Cape Industrial Estate, Warwick CV34 4JN T: 01926 409007 www.cheekychimpswarwick.co.uk Party packages and whole venue hire option (min 25 children).

Henry’s Castle Play Barn

Stratford Armouries, Gospel Oak Lane, Pathlow, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 0JA T: 01789 262468 www.henryscastle.co.uk Party packages for indoors and out, pottery painting and discos.

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The Purple Planet

Stratford-upon-Avon, Southam and Studley Leisure Centres www.everyoneactive.com Parties include pool parties, sports, bouncy castle, dancing and skating.

Warwick District Council

Each leisure centre offers a range of party options including swimming parties, sports parties and bouncy castle parties.

Newbold Comyn Leisure Centre, Leamington Spa CV32 4EW. T: 01926 882083 St Nicholas Park Leisure Centre, Warwick CV34 4QY. T: 01926 495353 Castle Farm Recreation Centre, Kenilworth CV8 1EY. T: 01926 850550 Abbey Fields Swimming Pool, Kenilworth CV8 1BP. T: 01926 855478 Meadows Community Sports Centre, Kenilworth School CV8 2DA. T: 01926 857613 John Atkinson Sports Centre, Myton School CV34 6PJ. T: 01926 498363 For more information, go to www.warwickdc.gov.uk - click on Leisure, then Leisure Centres and Gyms, and then Children’s Parties.

Mess Around Stratford-upon-Avon

T: 01789 415526 www.monkeymusic.co.uk Invite Monkey and his musical fun and games to your party.

Munchkin Melodies

T: Caroline on 01926 498466 www.munchkinmelodies.co.uk Music parties for babies and children aged up to 4.

Tumble Tots

T: Laura 01926 856313 www.tumbletots.com Active sports and music party for 6 months–7 years, tailored to the age range.

Theatre Parties Playbox Theatre

The Dream Factory, Shelley Avenue, Warwick CV34 6LE T: 01926 475672 www.playboxtheatre.com/parties Playbox Theatre offers unforgettable Birthday Parties, so that you and your child can celebrate in style! Parties are themed events, tailor made to suit your requirements - whether your child wants to star in their own musical, put on a show, or sit back and watch a performance from their VIP seats, we bring you a relaxing and unique birthday experience.

T: Jacqui Dance on 01789 263464 www.stagecoach. co.uk/leamingtonspa Stagecoach Parties take your child on a rollercoaster ride through their imagination and land them safely back with some amazing memories!

We can come to you, either at home or a hired venue, or Stagecoach Leamington Spa offer their own decorated venue on Saturdays for FREE! Themed parties for 4-11 year olds and Murder Mystery for 11-16 year olds. Tailor-made parties for each age group, packed full of games, songs and fun! Princesses, pirates, fairies or detectives - there’s a Stagecoach Party for everyone.

Arts, Crafts and Cake Decorating Beading Crafty

25 The Square, Brandon, Kenilworth CV8 1EF T: 01926 858442 www.beadingcrafty.com Jewellery, sculpture and painting parties for ages 8-11 and 12-15.

Caterpillar Corner Craft Ltd

T: 07817 649472 www.caterpillarcorner.co.uk Fantastic party packages starting from just £6 per child. Whether the birthday boy/girl is 3 or 16 years old, they can choose activities from a tried and tested list of cool activities.

Does your child have a favourite topic – such as dinosaurs? Let us create a bespoke package at no extra cost! Activities include dino dig, mask making, sewing workshops, glass painting, 3D model build & paint workshops and lots more! Get in touch for more information.

Childsplay Ceramic Studio

Stratford Garden Centre, Campden Road, Clifford Chambers, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 8LW T: 01789 205745 www.stratfordgardencentre.co.uk Pottery painting parties for ages 5 and over.

Crazy Kiln

T: Diana 07747 024368 www.crazykiln.co.uk Pottery painting parties at your home or chosen venue.

Lilac Ladybird Craft Studio

Hilltop Farm Shop and Café, Fosse Way, Nr Leamington Spa CV33 9EL T: 07890 154852 www.lilacladybird.co.uk Pottery and T-shirt painting, teddy bear and jewellery making, and decopatch.

Little Bird Soaps

T: Katie 07792 423105 www.littlebirdsoaps.com Party guests create their own natural lotions and potions, lip balms, bath bombs and more.

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Peaches’ Parties

Potter In Craft Studio

1A Augusta Place, Leamington Spa CV32 5EL T: 01926 886655 www.potterincraftstudio.co.uk Pottery painting, decopatch and mosaic parties. Food provided or bring your own.

Where parties are dreams come true with the emphasis on YOU! Singing and dancing with one of your favourite characters, Minnie Mouse, Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger or Eeyore, and lots more fun and games

07580 549486

Pottery Dottery

Pottery painting parties at Henry’s Castle Play Barn (see Soft Play).

Sweet As

7 Warwick Place, Leamington Spa CV32 5HB T: 01926 330073 www.sweet-as.co.uk Cupcake decorating parties for children age 8+.

The Creation Station

Kenilworth and South Coventry T: Catherine 0844 874 7336 www.thecreationstation.co.uk Fun art and craft parties with quality products to decorate.

The Pottery Paint Shop

laura@peachesparties.com

www.peachesparties.com Mr Karting

Unit 2, The Hangars, Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa CV33 9SA T: 01926 833444 www.mrkarting.co.uk Exciting indoor racing for drivers aged 8 years + and 4’4”

Onside Coaching

T: 01926 496496 www.onsidecoaching.co.uk Multi-sports, football or dance parties at your choice of venue.

Phoenix Scalextric Circuit

36 West Street, Warwick CV34 6AN T: 01926 258087 www.thepotterypaintshop.co.uk Pottery painting parties for ages 5+.

T: Jon 07974 656577 www.phoenixscalextriccircuit.com Race your friends around a huge 6 lane track!

You’ve Got Cake Parties

Tenpin Bowling

T: 07718 897591 www.youvegotcake.co.uk Cake decorating parties in your home.

Can be themed.

Pamper Parties Absolute Beauty Pamper Parties

T: Rosina 01926 612403 www.rosinebeauty.co.uk Giant jacuzzi, pamper treatment, then film in cinema room. Aged 8+

Activities

Bunkers Hill Swimming

Barton Road, Welford-upon-Avon CV37 8HQ T: 01789 751016 www.bunkershillswimming.co.uk Legendary two hour parties with games and races.

Go4Goals

T: Jason 07747 562469 www.go4goals.co.uk Football parties for 4-11 year olds, run by qualified FA coach.

Go-Kart Party

T: Colin Stokes 07905 631098 www.go-kartpartywarwickshire.co.uk Fun parties at one of our venues or we can come to you!

Leam Boat Centre

Mill Road, Leamington Spa CV31 1BE T: 01926 889928 www.leamboatcentre.com Fun on the water! Kayaking parties in Leamington and Warwick.

Shires Retail Park, Tachbrook Park Drive, Leamington Spa CV34 6RH www.tenpin.co.uk/leamington-spa Midweek bowling parties, weekend birthday bash parties (bowling plus more).

Wacky Racquets “Badminfun”

T: Chris 01789 842664 www.wackyracquets.co.uk This innovative concept has been developed by Warwickshire’s largest badminton coaching club, Alveston Juniors, to introduce the sport to beginners aged 5-11 in Leamington, Warwick and Stratford (£5 per 90 minute session – including free polo shirt). We also run active (two hour) parties using games from our weekly sessions (typically £3.50 per head for twenty players, all equipment provided).

Entertainers Animal Antics

T: John 01902 678320 www.animalantics.net Thrill the kids with tarantulas, toads, snakes, birds of prey and more!

Mad Science

T: 01926 429875 www.westmidlands.madscience.org High-energy, interactive science demonstrations and activities, for ages 5-12.

Peaches Parties

T: 07580 549486 www.peachesparties.com Singing and dancing with your favourite characters. Lots of fun and games.

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Available online from £1.99 inc P&P Visit www.cleversweets.co.uk

Cakes Cake Time

T: Fiona on 07790 483 888 www.cake-time.co.uk Fabulous handmade occasion cakes and cupcakes.

You’ve Got Cake

T: 07718 897591 www.youvegotcake.co.uk Stunning, original and exquisite birthday cakes.

Equipment Hire Bounceroos Bouncy Castle Hire

T: 07769 979676 or 024 7662 9197 www.bounceroos-bouncycastles.co.uk We have a range of castles and a directory of venues.

Rock and Roll Soft Play

Cleverpop

www.cleversweets.co.uk Healthy treats for the party bags!

Order online.

Party Shops Stratford Fancy Dress

Stratford Garden Centre, Campden Road, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 8LW T: 01789 298467 www.stratfordfancydress.co.uk

One Stop Party Shop

12 Gloucester Street, Leamington Spa CV31 1EE T: 01926 314699 www.one-stop-partyshop.co.uk

Let’s Party

Market Place, Shipston-on-Stour CV36 4AG T: 01608 665944

T: 07760 366155 www.rockandrollsoftplay.co.uk Soft play hire, for 0-4-year-olds.

Packages available.

Softplay Takeaway

T: 07966 767213 E: softplaytakeawayhire@gmail.com www.softplaytakeaway.co.uk Relax and let Softplay Takeaway bring the party to you! Fun, clean and safe softplay equipment to hire.

Perfect for parties, christenings, weddings, BBQs! A wide range of equipment including safety mats, large ballpit, compact bouncy castle, rockers, tunnels, large climb n slide shapes, fancy dress costumes, musical mats and lots more! Ideal for indoor or outdoor use. Choose Softplay Takeaway for a totally stress-free party option, guaranteed to keep little ones entertained for hours!

Suitable for children aged 0-5yrs.

Tickety-Boo

T: 07817 033292 www.tickety-boo.uk.com Bouncy castle hire and themed parties – we bring the fun!

Party Bags Amanda Walker Crafts

E: amandawalkercrafts@gmail.com www.amandawalkercrafts.co.uk Handmade gifts and fabric party bags, empty or pre-filled with wooden toys.

9

Why Do I HAVE To Do Homework?

If you have a school age child, you’re probably familiar with the eye rolling and sighing response to any mention of the ‘H’ word.

By Robina Cowan Next time your child asks why he has to do homework, you’ll have the answer ready. We also have tips on how you can help.

what is homework for?

•

Extend schoolwork with visits to local museums, exhibitions and attractions – Warwickshire offers so much that can bring subjects to life in a way no amount of books or websites can do

•

Ask your child if she is pleased with her homework (before leaping in to point out all the mistakes!), and offer praise where it is due - for example the work is neat, or well written, or answers the question really well

•

Time management is one of the hardest aspects for a child to get to grips with - but they’ll need to when it comes to sitting exams.

Give your child a timer set for the duration of the homework and see how much they finish. Initially, it can help if you remind your child when they are halfway through the time, and again when there are ten minutes left. This is good training and before long they will have adjusted to how much work they can produce in the allotted time

•

Children who have been sitting at desks for most of the day often need to let off steam after school. A run around the park on the way home can dispel restlessness before settling down to homework

Tempting though it might be, in order to hurry up the process, it is not the chance for you to show off how much you remember from your schooldays and do it for them!

Homework is set: • For children to practise, reinforce and extend work that is taught in class • To enable teachers to find out whether or not pupils have understood the lesson • To help children develop skills of independent time management • To show what children are able to produce under unaided conditions • To encourage pupils to understand that school work does not finish when the school day ends and that responsibility for working continues beyond the classroom • To develop a strong work ethic.

should parents get involved?

The answer from experienced teachers is a resounding “yes!” One told us that “the improvement in a young child whose parent is hearing them read for 15-20 minutes a night is fairly astronomical compared to those who don’t, and the improvement carries right up to ages 7 or 8, by which time children are usually reading fluently.”

homework diaries Most schools give out homework diaries, making it easier for parents to see what has been set, when it should be handed in, and providing a way for teachers and parents to communicate.

If your child is taking longer than the expected time to do their homework, or if you had to explain how to work out the set maths, make a note in the homework diary so the teacher knows about it.

how to help Show an interest in your child’s work; point them in the right direction rather than telling them the answer; offer a snack and a drink while they work. Here are more tips from experts - the teachers.

•

Be aware of where and how your child works best. Some children need quiet, others prefer people around them. Some want to start their homework as soon as they are home to get it out of the way; others are better after a snack and a half hour ‘chill’

•

Show a positive interest and monitor what is being done. Is it too much? Too little or rushed? Communicate with the school if you have concerns

10

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

Bablake junior & pre-prep Bablake Pre Prep Open Afternoon Tuesday 13th May 2014 1 - 3 pm Bablake Junior School Open Evening Friday 20th June 2014 5 - 8 pm

www.bablakejuniorschool.co.uk •

Set a positive example. Other members of the family can use homework time by taking up their own studies or settling down to a focused activity (such as sorting bills/reading the paper/ironing) at the same time.

all work and no play?

Last September, a school in Guildford abolished all homework apart from reading and occasional projects, for children aged seven to eleven. The school was graded ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted and the head teacher has seen no difference in achievement. In an article published by the TES, it is suggested that the amount of homework children complete has little correlation with their level

y Da

of academic success; in fact many believe homework can have a negative impact particularly in relationships between children and their parents who are trying to get them to concentrate.

Homework may be more appropriate in secondary school where it is an invaluable tool in teaching hard work and self-discipline.

Experts agree that homework should be varied and motivational - technology is proving useful, with an increasing number of tasks being completed online. Children may also be given activities to complete in their local community, for example at the library - while this is learning outside school, it is not homework in its more traditional sense.

Homework clubs at school have also proved successful.

As the debate continues, many schools are moving away from ‘timed’ homework slots and, only where appropriate, are concentrating on simple repetition and reenforcement of skills being learnt during the day. The full article ‘All Work and No Play’ is on www.tes.co.uk

Evidence–based parent workshops and 1 to 1 coaching Topics include: Maths learning, persistence, confidence, resilience Also working with home educating families

Contact Anastasia on 07532 442007 or email: anastasia@ostrakinda.co.uk

www.ostrakinda.co.uk

.

pm .30 2 n m to 1ilable e a a Op ay, 10 ays av d M r e th 10 Tast

Arnold Lodge, the only school that selects on potential and not on attainment

Make Arnold Lodge your 1st choice for private co-education in September 2014.

An Exceptional Education for Boys and Girls from 3 to 18 years in the heart of Royal Leamington Spa .

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel:Telephone 01926 335004 01926 778 050 | www.arnoldlodge.com |

11

Independent Schools Information and Open Days Preps and Primaries

Arnold Lodge Leamington Spa CV32 5TW T: 01926 778050 E: info@arnoldlodge.com www.arnoldlodge.com Sat 10 May, 10am-12.30pm: Open Morning Bablake Junior School Coventry CV1 4AU T: 024 7627 1260 E: jhmsec@bablakejs.co.uk www.bablakejuniorschool.co.uk Fri 20 June, 5pm-8pm: Open Evening Bablake Pre Prep Coventry CV1 2LH T: 024 7622 1677 Weds 13 May, 1pm-3pm: Open Afternoon Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery Kenilworth CV8 2FT T: 01926 514444 E: post@crackleyhall.co.uk www.crackleyhall.co.uk Weds 21 May, 5pm-7.30pm: Open Evening The Croft Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 7RL T: 01789 293795 E: office@croftschool.co.uk www.croftschool.co.uk King Henry VIII Prep School Coventry CV3 6PT T: 024 7627 1307 E: headmaster@khps.co.uk www.khps.co.uk Visits and taster days by arrangement The Kingsley Preparatory School Leamington Spa CV32 5RD T: 01926 421368 E: carolewatson@kingsleyschool.co.uk (Registrar) www.thekingsleyschool.com Tues 6 May, 10.30am-3pm: Prep Open House Weds 2 July, 5.30pm-7.30pm: Senior School Open Evening Stratford Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BG T: 01789 297993 E: secretary@stratfordprep.co.uk www.stratfordprep.co.uk Mon 12 May, 10am-2pm and 6pm-8pm Sat 7 June, 10am-2pm & 6pm-8pm Warwick Preparatory School Warwick CV34 6PL T: 01926 491545 E: admissions@warwickprep.com www.warwickprep.com Warwick School Warwick CV34 6PP T: 01926 776400 E: enquiries@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org Fri 4 July, 7pm-9pm: Junior and Senior School Open Evening

Senior Schools

Bablake Senior School Coventry CV1 4AU T: 024 7627 1200 E: info@bablake.coventry.sch.uk www.bablake.com Fri 20 June, 5pm-8pm: Open Evening King Henry VIII Senior School Coventry CV3 6AQ T: 024 7627 1111 E: info@khviii.net www.kinghenrys.co.uk Thurs 26 June: Open House Sat 28 June: Open Morning King’s High Warwick CV34 4HJ T: 01926 494485 E: enquiries@kingshighwarwick.co.uk www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk Sat 21 June: Taster Morning Princethorpe College Rugby CV23 9PX T: 01926 634201E: elainewarwick@princethorpe.co.uk www.princethorpe.co.uk Tues 20 May, Mon 16, Weds 18 and Thurs 19 June: Taster Days Weds 4 June, 6.30pm -8.30pm: Open Evening Rugby School Rugby CV22 5EH T: 01788 556274 E: admissions@rugbyschool.net www.rugbyschool.net Sat 14 June: Open Day for Year 12 Sat 28 June: Open Day for Year 7

12

A HOME FROM

HOME

Welcoming an overseas student into your home can be a very rewarding experience and there are a number of ways you can become a host family.

Every year, thousands of overseas students are educated at independent schools across the UK. When their school closes for half term holidays and exeat weekends throughout the year, they need a great host family who will provide a home away from home. Pippa’s Guardians has been providing high quality Guardianship services to international students for over 15 years. A family run company, they understand the value of a good home and how a host family can positively impact on a student’s wellbeing. Pippa’s Guardians know their students well and match them with well-suited families.

Thousands more overseas students come to the UK on educational visits. They usually spend between one and three weeks here and follow a programme which combines English lessons with day trips and social activities.

HOST FAMILIES WANTED The students live with a host We are looking for welcoming homes to family during the whole of their accommodate our students on short stay study stay. Being part of a family and trips in Leamington this year. experiencing day to day family life Rewarding experience and good pay. enhances their study programme and undoubtedly plays a part in Call Margaret on improving their English language 07974 274043 skills. Depauw International, or email a Belgian company, has been info@depauwinternational.be bringing students to Leamington Spa for many years. They have a representative who meets with the Become a Host Family for an host families and they do their best International Student from a to match students with families Local Boarding School who have similar interests.

As well as receiving a generous payment, there are many other advantages in being a host family. It is a great opportunity to introduce your family to other cultures and languages. Sharing your traditions and family life with an overseas student and knowing that you are helping them during their time in the UK is very gratifying. Long term friendships often develop and many host families keep in touch with the students and their families once they are back home.

from September 2014 Occasional Weekends and Half Terms only Do you have a spare room in your house?

It doesn’t matter what age you are.

Good daily payments.

Call Ben to find out more 01684 252757 Email: ben@pippasguardians.co.uk

www.pippasguardians.co.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

WarwickSchool 87 by 130 July OD 2014_Layout 1 31/01/2014 16:36 Page

I can already see an improvement in their confidence, ability and approach to their english work.

I only wish that I’d found you sooner!

Mrs Ward mother of 8 & 5 year olds (Leamington Spa)

Open Evening Friday 4 July 2014 Junior and Senior Schools 7.00 - 9.00 pm

Warwick School

Independent boys’ school (7-18 years)

For details and a prospectus please contact: The Admissions Registrar T: 01926 776400 E: admissions@warwickschool.org www.warwickschool.org

Maths & English Tuition Centre üFollows the national curriculum from 4-15 year olds üTailor-made learning programme üThe only external learning programme to be adopted in schools Centres in Leamington Spa, Kenilworth & Balsall Common

Tel: 01926 259 644

www.firstclasslearning.co.uk

King Henry VIII

Prep & Senior School

www.khviii.com | T: 024 7627 1111 Senior School Open Events…

Open House: Thursday 26th June

Summer Open Morning: Saturday 28th June King Henry VIII School welcomes boys and girls between 3 and 18 years of age, providing a first class education in a caring, supportive environment.

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

King Henry VIII School, Warwick Road, Coventry CV3 6AQ

E: info@khviii.net

A leading co-educational day school, since 1545 13

Clubs & Classes Calypso Kids Pre-school Music Classes for children aged 6 months - 4 years Classes are held at Townsend Hall, Sheep Street, Shipston on Stour CV36 4AE

Fun and action packed sessions which develop physical skills and boost self-confidence! www.tumbletots.com/warwick 01926 856 313

Wednesdays at 9.20am, 10.15am & 11.00am Fridays at 10.00am & 11.00am What’s in the lilly pad today? £3.50 per class when paying for a half-term block in advance or £4.50 a class to pay-as-you-play.

Discounts are available for siblings.

Book a FREE Taster Class.

Tel: 07890 399162 www.calypsokids.co.uk

Stick and Squidge

Henry’s Castle Every Tues 10-10.50am The Open Door Café 1st Thurs every month 9.45-10.30am Chase Meadow Centre Last Mon every month 1.30-2.30pm

For the budding star in your family!

Sparkle tots performing arts and ballet classes, 2 years plus Boyz Only Street Dance class, 4 years plus Musical Theatre, Ballet Contact Natalie on 0845 017 0825 or and Street Dance classes, 4 years plus email: sparkleperformers@gmail.com

to book a free trial session.

Here’s a craft activity from Caterpillar Corner Crafts which proved very popular at a recent session!

Perfect for ages 2½ -5yrs (under 2s free)

Pre-booking & payment essential

www.caterpillarcorner.co.uk

®

warwickshire

“Families has one of the widest reaching target audiences. The adverts have been a good price and have proven to be a great investment over the last year.” Families Warwickshire advertiser.

Join our Family and advertise your club/ class on this page. Call 01926 335004 or email editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk

Desert Islands You need: Paper plate Glue Scissors Sticky tape Blue tissue paper Sand Straw Green pipe cleaner Sequins to decorate

Step 1: With your paper plate upside down, make a hole to fit the straw. Push the straw through the hole and secure in place using some sticky tape. TIP - use a straw with a bendy bit so you can fold it under the plate and stick it down.

Step 2: Cut your green pipe cleaner into 2 pieces and wrap around the top of your straw to make a palm tree.

Step 3: Spread lots of glue all over the bottom of the plate then, either using your fingers or a spoon, sprinkle sand to cover the glue.

Nurturing and developing young people’s potential through dance, drama and singing.

For 4-18 year olds, after school, at weekends and holiday workshops.

May Half Term Workshop Thursday 29 May 9.00am-3.30pm Trinity Catholic School, Leamington Spa for 6-18 year olds.

Step 4: Tear the blue tissue paper into small pieces, spread glue all around the edge of the plate and stick the paper on.

Step 4: Decorate! You can use sequins and gems, make paper fish and deck chairs - even mermaids on a rock. How about a little crab made out of a jewel, with googly eyes and tiny pieces of tissue paper for legs and claws? Go on, get creative!

www.caterpillarcorner.co.uk

Stagecoach Leamington Spa and Kenilworth Call 07976 608574 to book your place now. leamingtonspa@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/leamingtonspa

14

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

What’s On

Romans on the Rampage at Herbert Art Gallery

Coughton Court Alcester B49 5JA T: 01789 400777 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ coughtoncourt Packwood House Lapworth B94 6AT T: 01564 782024 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ packwood Upton House Nr Banbury OX15 6HT T: 01295 670266 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ uptonhouse Get outside and explore the grounds, gardens and woods of our local National Trust properties - how many of the 50 things to do before you’re 11¾ can you tick off during half term?

Ryton Pools Country Park

May Half Term All Things Wild

Honeybourne, Nr Evesham WR11 7QZ T: 01386 833083 www.allthingswild.co.uk Including Baby Bonanza - we will have lots of new baby animals this half term, some brand new ones and some offspring of the lovely animals we have here already.

Brandon Marsh Nature Centre

Coventry CV3 3GW T: 024 7630 2912 www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk All workshops and drop ins: 10.30am-12 noon All 60 minute marvels: 1.30-2.30pm & 3-4pm Tues 27 May Crafty Drop-in: Springing frogs (All ages) Make a springy frog.

60 minute marvel: Pond dipping (4 years+) Have a dip in our pond and find out more about what lurks beneath.

Weds 28 May Crafty Drop-in: Ladybird hat (All ages) Turn into this amazing beetle by making our fantastic hat.

60 minute marvel: Mini beast hunting (4 years+) Search our reserve for some creepy crawlies.

Thurs 29 May Workshop: Magical Minibeasts (2-4 years) Loads of legs and loads of fun.

Fri 30 May Crafty Drop-in: Dream catcher (All ages) You will be using willow, wool and beads to make a craft to keep away all your nightmares.

60 minute marvel: Den building Can you make the perfect survival shelter; this session is both fast and fun.

Herbert Art Gallery

Coventry CV1 5QP T: 024 7623 7521 www.theherbert.org Mon 26-Sat 31 May 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-3.30pm Romans on the Rampage To celebrate the opening of the Roman Empire: Power and People exhibition, half term will be filled with workshops inspired by the Roman army since the time of Caesar. From Roman soldier puppets with artist Jim Morris to armour and weaponry, you will be equipped to become a true rampaging Roman soldier by the end of the week! Times may vary. Check website.

Heritage Motor Centre

Gaydon CV34 0BJ T: 01926 641188 www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk All May Half Term activities are included in the standard admission price.

Sat 24 May-Sun 1 June Build-a-Car Week Join our ‘Build-a-Car’ workshops. From Lego to paper, get hands on and design, build and test your own car, and many more activities including 21st birthday trail.

Tues 27 May, 10.30am-3pm Lego Technic Tuesday Drop-in hands-on activity where children can build and test their own Lego Technic machines. Race them along the ‘Heritage Test Track’ – winner gets a prize. Plus 21st birthday trail.

Weds 28 May, 10.30am-3pm Wheelie Lego Wednesday Be an HMC apprentice for the day and

Hatton Adventure World

Nr Warwick CV35 8XA T: 01926 843411 www.hattonworld.com/farmvillage Sat 24 May-Sun 1 June A full day’s programme of spring time entertainment including Goat Racing around the Sheep Racing track!

Especially for Whitsun, an amazing Dog Agility Show.

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004

see if you can engineer and build your own Lego Technic vehicle. Plus 21st birthday activities.

Thurs 29 May 10.30am-3pm Build a Land Rover Thursday Assemble and customise your own vehicle to take home. Plus 21st birthday activities.

Fri 30 May, 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30pm-3pm Speed Build Car Challenge This is a timed challenge. Children have 12 minutes to build the best and fastest car they can. Fastest wins a prize. Bookable on the day at the museum entry desk. Plus 21st birthday activities.

Kenilworth Castle

Kenilworth CV8 1NE T: 01926 852078 www.english-heritage.org.uk/ kenilworthcastle Sat 24-Mon 26 May Medieval Mayhem Become the hero of your own medieval adventure with castle characters on hand to bring medieval life to life!

National Trust Properties Baddesley Clinton Baddesley Clinton B93 0DQ T: 01564 783294 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ baddesleyclinton Charlecote Park Nr Wellesbourne CV35 9ER T: 01789 470277 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ charlecote

Sheep Racing at Hatton

Bubbenhall CV8 3BH T: 024 7630 5592 www.countryparks.warwickshire. gov.uk Sat 24 May-Sun 1 June Mini-beast Kingdom Trail Follow the mini-beast trail around the park and answer the clues as you go. Will you be able to find the queen bee’s treasure in order to collect your kingdom badge?

Weds 28 May, 11am-1.30pm Lovely Ladybirds Drop in and investigate with the Rangers. Make a snazzy ladybird hat and discover how many different coloured ladybirds there are. Finish off with some fun games and challenges outside.

Fri 30 May, 11am-12.30pm Woodland Mini-beast Hunt Come along and discover what’s jumping, crawling and flying around the woodlands using nets, pots and shaker sheets. A Ranger will be on hand to help you identify your finds.

Booking essential.

The Shakespeare Houses

Mary Arden’s Farm Wilmcote CV37 9UN www.shakespeare.org.uk Sun 24-Mon 26 May Tudor Wedding Festival Join our bride and groom as they prepare to tie the knot – Tudor style.

Enjoy music, games and a Tudor party atmosphere.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace Henley Street, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6QW www.shakespeare.org.uk Sun 24 May-Sun 1 June Words, Words, Words Test your knowledge of Shakespeare with our quizzical quotes.

New Place and Nash’s House Chapel Street, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6EP www.shakespeare.org.uk Sun 24 May-Sun 1 June Masque making Get inspired and create a theatrical Shakespearian masque to decorate and take home.

Hall’s Croft Old Town, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 6BG www.shakespeare.org.uk Sun 24 May-Sun 1 June Spring to Life Search the walled garden and hunt for the animals that appear in Shakespeare’s spring time poems.

15

Classifieds Liz Barnes AICB

LHA Accountancy & Admin Services Tel: 07791 393915 email: lizherranz@gmail.com

Advertise your business here for as little as £45 per issue

www.lhaaccountancy.co.uk

Theatre Belgrade Theatre Coventry CV1 1GS

Festivals

www.belgrade.co.uk Peppa Pig’s Big Splash Weds 21 & Thurs 22 May Come and join Peppa and her friends for an all-singing, all-dancing adventure full of songs, games and muddy puddles!

Kidnapped Tues 27-Sat 31 May An adventure tale for all the family, Kidnapped tells the story of Davie Balfour as he survives shipwreck and murder dramatically to escape to the Highlands of Scotland. Ages 6+

Alcester Food Festival

Bridge House Theatre Warwick CV34 6PP

Best of British Transport Festival

www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” Thurs 15 & Fri 16 May at 7pm Performed by Warwick Junior School boys. Charlie Brown isn’t so sure he’s got himself or life figured out.

Peter Pan Musical Thurs 26-Sat 28 June Performed by King’s High School. “Come along on the journey with us, and, as long as you believe in fairies, you can share in the magic.”

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Tues 1-Thurs 3 July The Biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colours comes to vibrant life in this musical performed by Warwick school boys in Years 7-9.

Royal Spa Centre Leamington Spa CV32 4HN www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk Stagecoach Theatre Arts Charity Show Sun 25 May Stagecoach theatre schools are coming together to produce a spectacular event in support of the Stagecoach Charitable Trust, InterAct and BEAT, the UK’s largest charity for eating disorders in adults, adolescence and children.

Warwick Arts Centre Coventry CV4 7AL

www.warwickartscentre.co.uk Borka: The Goose with no Feathers Sat 10 May The story is about being different – and how this is not such a bad thing. This new opera is a lovely way to introduce opera to young children. Ages 3-7 How Cold My Toes Sun 18 May An exciting piece of dance-theatre for the very young, this show takes you on a fun-filled magical journey through the seasons. Ages 2-5 Rock Pool Sat 24 May When a big storm whips up the sea, two very different creatures are left stranded in an isolated rock pool, far from the open water. Ages 3+ Rapunzel Thurs 29-Sat 31 May A new take on the classic fairytale. Ages 7+

Alcester High Street Sat 17 May Wander round the annual food festival and enjoy the delicious aromas and tasty samples to suit everyone‘s palate. From chocolate lambs to traditional pork bangers. This year, get up close to a bee hive and find out more about honey production. www.alcesterfoodfestival.org.uk Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon CV34 0BJ Sun 25 May A brand new transport festival offering something for everyone. Classic British emergency vehicles on display, demonstrations by military vehicles, mini-tanks for children to drive. Other family entertainment includes a vintage penny arcade, bouncy castle and static falconry display allowing children to see the birds up close and have their photographs taken. Large outdoor adventure playground and off-road demonstration rides from the Land Rover Experience team. www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk

Stratford Cycle Fest

16

Alcester High Street Sun 8 June With a ‘1940’s’ theme, the Street Market commences with a Fancy Dress Competition at 12:30 followed by a parade at 13:15 and officially opens at 13:30. Live music, stalls, local shops and community groups all come together for this annual event in and around the High Street. www.alcestercourtleet.co.uk/street-market

Leamington Peace Festival

Pump Room Gardens, Leamington Spa CV32 4AA Sat 14 & Sun 15 June Free family festival. Live music, stalls and plenty of activities for children. www.peacefestival.org.uk

Also Festival

Compton Verney CV35 9HZ Sat 21 & Sun 22 June New boutique festival set in a family friendly, beautiful environment. Kids get to be animators, beat-boxers and explorers, while adults get to stimulate their mind, sip cocktails and enjoy fantastic locally sourced food. Tickets may be limited, but the fun certainly isn’t. www.also-festival.com

Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse, Luddington Road CV37 9SE Sun 25 May Events for the whole family. A unique and exciting range of displays, demonstrations and challenging ride events for all the family. Amazing stunt cycling displays and children’s fun areas with bouncy castles and rides. Fantastic food, drink and refreshments all from local suppliers. www.cyclistsfc.org.uk/events/stratford-cyclefestival

Stratford Food Festival At the Races

Stratford River Festival

Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse, Luddington Road CV37 9SE Fri 30 May-Sun 1 June New for 2014! Over 70 food and drink stalls, live music and race meetings on the Friday and Saturday evenings. Lots for children including balloon modelling, face painting, magician and more. Children go free. www.stratfordfoodfestival.co.uk

Recreation Ground on the banks of the River Avon CV37 7LS Sat 5 & Sun 6 July Free family fun in Stratford-upon-Avon with music, narrow boats on the River Avon, craft and food stalls, family zone, charity stalls, illuminated boat parade and spectacular fireworks. www.stratfordriverfestival.co.uk

Asparafest

Carnivals

Ashdown Farm, Evesham, WR11 7PA Sat 31 May & Sun 1 June Worcestershire’s Aspara-tastic Music & Food Festival!. Family crafts and workshops, the return of CBeebies Mr Bloom, falconry, aerial theatre, cookery kitchen, vintage vehicles, fun fair, craft and food stalls, and 2 music stages. Camping available. 2 music stages. www.asparafest.co.uk

Lunar Festival

The Energy Show Tues 3 June Explosive family theatre for curious minds. Stand back and cover your ears – theatre just got dangerously exciting!

Ages 7+ Monday’s Child Sat 14 June A simple, poetic story of the unique bond between a grandmother and a child. Ages 3-7

Alcester Street Market

Umberslade Estate, Tanworth-in-Arden B94 5AE Fri 6-Sun 8 June Three day camping festival set on the stunning Umberslade Estate. Quiet family camping and kids’ weekend club on the children’s farm. www.lunarfestival.co.uk

Kenilworth Carnival

Sat 5 July A day of family fun, Kenilworth Carnival features a street procession with floats, walkers and marching bands, led by the Carnival Queen and her attendants. The Procession leaves Kenilworth Castle at 1pm and is followed by entertainments, stalls and a funfair in Abbey Fields. www.kenilworthcarnival.org.uk

Leamington Summer Carnival

Sat 12 July For the first time since 1996, Leamington Carnival is back! Fun for all the family, watch the procession in the town then browse the stalls in the Pump Room Gardens. www.leamingtoncarnival.org.uk

www.familieswarwickshire.co.uk Tel: 01926 335004