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Issue 58 I May/June 2017

FREE take me home

Local Family Festivals Summer Camps & clubs WIN a family ticket to one of Hampshire’s top attractions

THE ESSENTIAL LOCAL MAGAZINE FOR PARENTS AND CARERS Call us 07789882467 to advertiseAREAS your business with us SOUTHAMPTON, THE NEW FOREST, WINCHESTER &onSURROUNDING

May/June 2017

SCHOOL

. . . . . . .

An independent co-educational school for ages 11-18 Academic excellence Strong pastoral support Extensive range of co-curricular opportunities Outstanding facilities Own bus service covering south Hampshire and Salisbury Financial assistance, scholarships and sports awards are available

Wilton Road, Southampton SO15 5UQ T: 023 8079 9216 E: registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Please contact us if you would like to arrange a visit to either school.

Stroud School, Romsey

www.stroud-kes.org.uk

King Edward VI Preparatory School

T: 01794 513231

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Families Hampshire West

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Hampshire West www.familiesonline.co.uk Tel: 07789 882 467 Managing Editor Rebecca Carr editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk Advertising Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk Online Manager Helen Clarke Winchester@familiesintheknow.co.uk hants-south-west@intheknowfamilies.co.uk Online Manager Rebecca Carr west-southampton@familiesintheknow.co.uk Online Manager Vacancy east-southampton@familiesintheknow.co.uk Next issue July/ August 2017 Booking deadline 2 June 2017 Cover image: Next

Families Contents 4 Local news

15 The benefits of learning a language

6 Family friendly festivals

16 Carry on camping

10 Summer camps & workshops

18 What’s on in May and June

12 Clubs & classes news

23 Competitions

14 How to teach times tables

Families online

www.familiesonline.co.uk Find us on Facebook for all the latest news and events in your local area West Southampton

Central Southampton, Bitterne, Bassettand Shirley

East Southampton

Winchester Central

West End, Hedge End, Bursledon, Hamble and Netley Facebook “f ” Logo

Families Hampshire West Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire West Magazine are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

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Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford, Winchester and Romsey

Hampshire South West Totton, Lyndhurst, New Milton, Ringwood and Lymington

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Would you like to advertise your business to over 42,000 parents in our July issue?

Book Today Call 07789 882467

Spanish classes for ages 0-11 Private tuition up to Year 9 ruth@hummingbirdlanguages.com 07513 000 798 www.hummingbirdlanguages.com

or email

editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk

May/June 2017

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

Local News

King Edward’s Spring Concert at Turner Sims The second of the term’s spring concerts took place at Turner Sims, acknowledged as one of the finest music venues in the country, on 15th March. The event featured the School’s senior musicians in the Chamber Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, Big Band and Chamber Choir. There were a number of outstanding group and solo performances, once again highlighting the depth and breadth of music in the School. The musicians performed to a full house with their customary energy, poise and professionalism. At King Edward’s over 450 pupils in the School are learning a musical instrument and receive weekly additional music tuition from visiting teachers. www.kes-hants.sch.uk

First Southampton Sailing Week being staged Southampton’s inaugural Sailing Week hits the waters between 24-29 May, featuring 6 days of sailing and water activities in and around the Solent. And of course Southampton’s own heritage steamship, SS Shieldhall will be participating, with her first three cruises of the season taking place between 27-29 May, including a family cruise of the docks on Sun 28 May, when up to 6 children can travel free of charge with an accompanying adult. Visit: www.southamptonsailingweek. co.uk or www.ss-shieldhall.co.uk

Walk to School Week Join thousands of children across the country celebrating the benefits walking brings from 15 - 19 May. We know that walking to school makes children feel healthier and happier, while reducing congestion and pollution outside the school gates. Yet less than half of primary school children currently walk to school. Living Streets, who organise the annual event want to reverse this decline and see every child that can, walk to school. www.livingstreets.org.uk

Rugbytots in Schools

Come and join the fun at The Pleasure Park, Southampton Entertaining the children during the holidays and weekends can prove an expensive business, often involving travelling out of town to theme parks which promise the earth and deliver a substantial hole in the pocket! With over 20 attractions,

Rugbytots offers term-time curriculum sports development programme utilising the skills and disciplines of rugby to help develop children’s physical, social and behavioural skills. By the end of the programme the children will have learned, achieved or improved in the following areas: emotional skills, self-managers, team workers, effective participators, ball handling, agility, spatial awareness, health and fitness. Rugbytots provide a report showing each child’s progress in these areas through the programme giving the school something tangible for their investment. Email southhants@rugbytots.co.uk for more information.

Get 15% o ff all activit ies

The Pleasure Park is situated on Southampton’s Sport Centre and is a great value mini fun fair for younger children. Just turn up and have fun... buy as many tokens as you like and away you go. Come and join in the fun at the best value venue for young children in Southampton. Open 7 days a week from 10.30-5pm. Visit thepleasurepark.co.uk for more information.

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Family Jumping fun Jump down to Oxygen Freejumping, London’s favourite trampoline park to explore over 100 connected trampolines and 8 jumping zones! It’s fun for the whole family, and will get you off your feet in style! Located in Antelope Retail Park, Southampton SO19 8NE. To book, visit oxygenfreejumping.co.uk or call 0203 846 1386.

Families Hampshire West

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Year 3 is an exciting time at Stroud School, King Edward VI Preparatory School, Romsey The traditional entry point for Preparatory School education, Year 3 pupils experience a wealth of new opportunities; they represent the school in sports fixtures, take part in new co-curricular activities as well as performances such as Gym and Dance displays, singing in Romsey Abbey, and public speaking events. All Year 3 pupils are assigned a mentor from Year 8. This initiative gives younger children excellent role models to aspire to and learn from. With average class sizes of 14 we can provide an individual approach to leaning. We have specialist teaching in Music, Games, French and Computing, with a rigorous academic curriculum designed to transition pupils smoothly to our selective senior school. There are currently places available in Year 3 - come and see what Stroud School can offer your child. www.stroud-kes.org.uk

New school menu app City Catering Southampton serves 1.7 million nutritious meals in 47 Southampton schools and nurseries each year has launched a new school menu app: Lunchero. The app went live over the school Easter break, giving parents and their children a way to view the full term’s menu for their individual school, on a day-by-day basis. “We asked parents if they liked paper menus, or wanted something digital. The vast majority wanted both,” said Rachel Hall, Deputy CEO, “a menu leaflet for the fridge, and online access to the day’s meal options on-the-go. “Lunchero solves the issue of having to figure out which week you’re in, and gives quick access to meal choices — as far ahead as the end of term. We’ve used the same meal images that pupils pick from in school; it means parents get a visual of the dishes they feel their children will enjoy, and can plan their meals in advance more easily.” Lunchero’s functionality allows its users to ‘love’ their favourite school meal choices, providing feedback directly to the company; and there’s also the option to request a recipe. Want Lunchero for your mobile devices? Find all the details on the City Catering Southampton Facebook page CityDinnersSouthampton

The Great Brick Safari: An Interactive Experience with LEGO® Bricks exclusive to Marwell Zoo

New for Summer 2 017 Aug - Oct

Marwell Wildlife is to become the first UK zoo to host a collection of giant LEGO brick animals. This summer over 80 stunning sculptures, representing 25 different species, will be installed at the Hampshire attraction, offering an exciting and unique trail to connect children with nature. Over 2 million bricks will be used to make the sculptures, which are being created by Bordonbased LEGO building company Bright Bricks. Among them will be a 1.5 tonne elephant, a life size Bengal tiger and a trio of Giant panda cubs. Other sculptures will be inspired by Marwell’s own diverse collection of animals. James Cretney, Chief Executive of Marwell Wildlife said: “Families love being around nature at Marwell and the LEGO brick trail will be a fun and engaging way of highlighting some of our really important species, as well as welcoming some exciting new animals to the zoo!” The Great Brick Safari will be included with general admission and will run from 1 August 1 October. www.marwell.org.uk

W.J.French & Son SHOEFITTERS OF DISTINCTION

www.wjfrenchandson.co.uk May/June 2017

40 Bedford Place, Southampton. SO15 2DG

023 8022 6542

mail@wjfrenchandson.co.uk

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

Family Festivals Site Map

Take time to orient yourself around the site, find where your favourite bands will be and most importantly, check out where the loos and showers are. These can get very busy and there are often long queues. For small kids, take a travel potty, as kids often need to ‘go’ quite suddenly. Most festivals have a craft and activities area for kids too. Pushchairs can be tricky to use if the ground is muddy. Carriers are more portable and take up less space. With small kids, try to camp in the family or quiet areas so that you won’t all be kept awake by people coming back to their tents (in all conditions) through the small hours.

Fancy dress

Many festivals now have a fancy dress parade as part of the fun, so take costumes. Some things can be made on-site at a craft stall. Face paints are great to pack, as are glow sticks and bubbles.

Introducing your children to all kinds of music can be a great way to give them a lifelong love of everything from folk to classical. Many of the UK’s festivals have plenty to do for the whole family and with some careful planning and by packing a few essentials, you’ll all have a great time.

Packing list - the essentials • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Waterproofs and wellies, comfy shoes Toiletries in small packs, a hang-up sponge bag you can take to the shower. Toothbrushes and paste. Lots of changes of clothing Warm jumpers and socks Sun screen and hats A baby carrier Torch and batteries Phone and charger Ear defenders Toilet rolls, tissues and wipes Insect repellent First aid kit Comfy clothes Flasks, camping cutlery and crockery Small backpacks for all, with a change of clothes, loo paper, wipes and snack in each, plus drinks.

Alresford Music Festival Arlebury Park, Nr Winchester 10 June

Cheese & Chilli Festival Christchurch 10 & 11 June The amazing Cheese and Chilli Festival will return to Christchurch on 10 & 11 June next to the Hurn Bridge Equestrian Centre from 10am - 5pm. This family event will be a celebration of all things cheese and chilli with lots more going on to entertain the whole family. Entertainments include stunt shows, live music, falconry display magic shows, Punch & Judy, Inflatables, craft tents, balloon modelling, sand art, chilli sauce competitions, and the not to be missed Chilli Eating Competition. Real ale and cider Bars, from Downton Brewery and Worleys Cider. They’ll be presentations and demonstrations including a wine masterclass from a’becketts vineyard, chilli growing from Sea Spring Seeds and cooking with chillies from Chilli Olly. There will even be a craft market to pick up some unique gifts. Early bird tickets available online at a discounted rate. www.cheeseandchillifestival.com

Alresford Music Festival is perhaps one of the most chilled, family friendly festivals of the summer, welcoming over 3,500 festival visitors to an astonishing music and fun filled ‘party in the park’. It’s an established festival that is a little known secret gem. This year the sensational Molotov Jukebox will headline on 10 June in a major coup for this popular festival near Winchester. With five stages of live music there’s always something to see and dance to. Plus there’s a buzzing festival village too plus a huge dedicated family arena with loads of free activities to try, do, squash and jump on! This a festival that is loved by everyone and is perhaps Hampshire’s best kept secret yet. Free shuttle buses run between the festival and Alton and Winchester train stations. There is weekend camping and motorhomes sites. Tickets from only £15 and children under 5 get in free. Book online today. www.alresfordmusicfestival.com

Families Hampshire West

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Our guide to the best local family festivals this summer

FestivALL Mayflower Park, Southampton 29 July This July, Southampton hosts its biggest one-day family event of the year, the allnew FestivALL. Set against the unique backdrop of Southampton’s waterfront in Mayflower Park, this one-day extravaganza of music, comedy and entertainment will have something for all the whole family from 11am – 11pm. Britain’s Got Talent’s Alesha Dixon will be headlining the main stage alongside Conor Maynard, Union J and Hoosiers with Southampton’s own Radio 1 DJ Scott Mills hosting. Local bands The Novatones, Nakamarra and the Black Kat Boppers are just some of the local talent performing on the Band Stand stage.

Basingstoke Festival 16 June - 9 July Basingstoke will come alive this summer when the borough celebrates homegrown musical and artistic talent. The festival line-up has something for all ages and culminates in Basingstoke Live, a free family-friendly two day music festival on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 July. The event showcases the best in local artists alongside national and international performers and is packed with free activities for families. Enjoy the Get Active Area, visit local stalls at the Community Zone and pick up a sweet treat or a delicious dish from one or f the many food stands. Basingstoke Festival offers something for everyone, so why not bring the whole family to an event near you!

Smaller members of the family are catered for with Tiny Fest - a big day out for little people hosting a huge variety of kids’ entertainment including Mini Mix, Paw Patrol record breaking Bubbleology and football fun with the Saint’s Foundation and Barclay’s Digital Eagle Lab. There will be loads of laughter in the Comedy Tent with performances from Stewart Francis and Milo McCabe among others, while fans of the 80s and 90s can be transported back in time in the Electrolove Big Top dance tent. Tickets are on sale online at www.festiv-all.co.uk WIN tickets to FestivALL with Families Hampshire West Magazine. We’ve got a ticket for 2 adults and 2 children to giveaway. To be in with a chance of winning, go to our website www.familiesonline.co.uk/local/southwest-hampshire/competitions. Enter by 30 June. T&C’s apply.

WIN

Vicky Park Music Festival Royal Victoria Country Park 16 & 17 June A Family fun day out. Bring a blanket and chill out in the sunshine whilst listening to live music from local bands. There will also be food and a selection of activities. New for 2017 - exclusive acoustic evening on Friday 16 June for weekend campers only. Tickets are limited so book early to avoid missing out. For tickets call 023 8045 5157 or visit www.hants.gov.uk/shop

KIDS FROM £9.50

PAW PATROL OFFICIAL MINI MIX AS LITTLE MIX Untitled-2 1

MAIN STAGE SCOTT MILLS

HOSTED BY RADIO 1’S

ALESHA DIXON • CONOR MAYNARD HOOSIERS • UNION J • ORDINARY BOYS THE NOVATONES • REGGIE ‘N’ BOLLIE STOOSHE • TWIST N PULSE • SCOTT MILLS (DJ SET)

VICKY JACKSON AS AMY WINEHOUSE • ANDREW BROWNING AS GEORGE MICHAEL

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May/June 2017

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Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

10 – 13 August Boomtown Winchester

21 May Alresford Watercress Festival Alresford Town Centre, SO24 9AQ

Free Entry

There will be a variety of fantastic family attractions and a wide range of mouth-watering watercress treats ranging from traditional soup and cakes, to watercress ice cream and watercress beer, even watercress flavoured gin and more.

27 May Totton and Eling Arts Festival Hanger Farm Arts Centre, Totton, SO40 8FT

The event showcases the amazing talent that Totton and Eling has to offer through a range of diverse activities including; art exhibitions, street art, live music, local dance and theatre groups, dance performances, as well as interactive arts workshops.

27 May

Nature Festival Gilbert White & The Oates Collections

There will be interactive stalls, guided walks, nature games and activities, live demonstrations, nature exploration on the day and plenty to do for all ages.

17 June Winchestival Winchester

A cool new family-friendly festival of music, comedy and food. There’s lots of activities for festival goers of all ages including zorbing, a climbing wall, story-telling and so much more.

Boomtown is one of the UK’s most innovative independent festivals offering its 60,000 attendees a fully immersive, theatrically-led experience, with hundreds of actors bringing the nine uniquely themed districts to life along with the mega stage sets, it is a festival experience unlike any other.

19 - 20 August Cheese & Chilli Festival Winchester

This family event will be a celebration of all things cheese and chilli with lots more going on to entertain the whole family.

25 – 27 August Car Fest Laverstock Park Farm, Overton, Basingstoke

Music line-up includes Manic Street Preachers, Seasick Steve, Tom Odell and Rick Astley. Step into a magical world and discover dance workshops, custard pie fights, a ‘car’-nival parade, pig racing, a vintage steam fair and everything else you could find under the rainbow. www.carfest.org

27 August Graze Festival Humphrey Farms, Twyford, Winchester

Graze Festival is Hampshire’s finest music and food festival. Explore what’s on, and join us this summer for a day of live music, fine food and family entertainment!

For more Family friendly festivals in Hampshire and surrounding areas visit our website for details www.familiesonline.co.uk

22 – 24 July Curious Arts Festival New Forest

A quirky boutique festival held in the lush gardens of Pylewell Park on the south coast. Everything is just a bit curious, as you’d expect. Find out more online www.curiousartsfestival.com

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An awe inspiring, multi award winning family festival set in the stunning grounds of Lulworth Castle. Huge acts and entertainment throughout the festival.

www.basingstokefestival.co.uk

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A GREAT FAMILY DAY OUT | LIVE MUSIC ANIMAL DISPLAYS | TASTY LOCAL PRODUCE CHEF DEMOS | HAVE-A-GO ACTIVITIES Sorry, no dogs (with the exception of recognised assistance dogs)

FEATURING OVER 20 BANDS

VICKY PAR

MUSIC

FESTIVAL 17 June 2017

Sat 17 June 12pm – 11pm Family friendly music and entertainment at the park.

New for 2017! Chill out acoustic night on Fri 16 June for weekend campers only. Hurry - spaces limited!

For more details visit www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp Tel: 023 8045 5157 www.hants.gov.uk

May/June 2017

SATURDAY 10th JUNE ARLEBURY PARK, NR. WINCHESTER

5 STAGES • WEEKEND CAMPING THEATRE • ART & MUSIC WORKSHOPS • ZORBS • CLIMBING

CHILDREN UNDER 5 GET IN FREE BEER FESTIVAL • COCKTAILS • CIDER BAR

alresfordmusicfestival.com

ONE GREAT DAY OF LIVE MUSIC! Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

Summer camps and workshops Rocksteady Music School This summer Rocksteady Music School will be bringing their unique teaching methods to Summer Camps in Southampton. Their Summer Camps make music fun giving budding rockstars aged 5-11 years the chance to play in a band, rehearse together and perform songs they love. Rock out all week long from 9am – 3pm with optional extended hours available. Plus star in a HD music video, take part in a photo shoot and record an MP3. Taking place 31st July – 4th August and 7th August – 11th August, call today for venue details or to book 0845 094 1259.

All Stars Cricket register your child today All Stars Cricket gives girls and boys from the ages of five to eight an opportunity to become a star. The national programme is delivered across over 50 fully accredited All Stars Cricket centres in Hampshire.

YMCA School Holidays School holiday activities should be ones that offer children the chance to try new things, do what they enjoy, make new friends and create lasting memories. The YMCA has a formula that has something for everyone. With 4 locations across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, as well as an extensive bus service their Daycamps are suitable for 4-16 year olds. Activities range depending on location from kayaking to cooking, climbing to arts and crafts, outdoor sports to theatre arts and so much more. Whatever the weather, there is lots of fun to be had at YMCA Daycamps. Visit the website www.ymca-fg.org or call 01489 785228 to make a booking.

It is a fun and active way to develop your child’s skills, and through our eight-week programme they will learn how to catch, throw and hit moving balls – as well as make new friends in a safe and inclusive environment. Each registered child will receive a pack of cricket goodies including a cricket bat, ball, backpack, water bottle, personalised shirt and cap to keep so that they can continue their love of cricket when they go home. The programme starts on the 19th May, dates and times vary depending on the centre. For further information, including your nearest centre and to register your child visit: allstarscricket.co.uk

Give your child a rocking summer with a chance to play in their own rock and pop band. CALL US FOR SOUTHAMPTON VENUE

DETAILS OR TO BOOK A PLACE

COURSES FOR ACTIVITIES AND THE SCHOOL NG CHILDREN DURI YS HOLIDA 31ST

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*Extended hours are 8am – 4pm and are available for an additional £20.

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Itchen Valley Country Park Playscheme’s 20th Birthday Itchen Valley Country Park Playschemes are for 6 – 11 year olds and run from 9.30am 3.30pm. This summer, there will be a theme for each day of the week. Survival 1 includes dens, camouflage games, lighting Kelly kettles. Survival 2 day is hammock building, making bows and arrows and cooking lunch (pizza wraps and fruit kebabs). Bugs and Beasts includes hunting for bugs in woods, meadows and pond plus making a bug hotel. The Woodwork and Natural art day is all about making models from wood but also felting and clay work. The 4 Elements challenge includes recycled kites, mini boats, designing obstacle courses and cooking bread over the fire. Visit www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp or call 023 8068 3790 for more information or to book a pace.

Stagecoach Fareham and Hedge End Courses and Summer holiday workshops Stagecoach Fareham and Hedge End run weekly sessions for students aged 4 – 6 years and 6-18 years, each group receives training in singing, dancing and drama by teachers, all of whom have a background in performing professionally. Classes run on Friday from 4.30pm-7.30pm at Wildern School, Hedge End and Saturday from 10am-1pm and 2-5pm. Taking classes in singing, dance and drama has been proven to build a child’s self-esteem and confidence, giving them skills they can use not only in performance but in everyday life. There will be Summer workshops running this year. Contact Vanessa on 01489 666323 for details or visit: www.stagecoach.co.uk/hedgeend

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Perform’s three and five day summer courses for 4-12s Inspire your child’s imagination this summer with Perform’s unique holiday courses. During July and August your 4-7 year old could be acting out the classic Beauty & Beast fairytale on one of Performs three or five day courses. Venturing into the Spooky Wood and exploring the grand Palace Of Dreams, they’ll learn songs, rehearse dances and put together scenes that tell the story of how Beauty met the Beast. 7-12 year olds will be joining Zak & Zara and the space age family on an epic cyberspace adventure. They’ll rehearse and perform a funky special written show exploring online safety. Perform courses are packed with dance, drama, singing and fun and are run by highly skilled trained actors. Prices start from £175. Various dates throughout July and August are available. The summer workshop is available at Holy Trinity Parish Church, Winchester, SO23 8DG Call 020 7255 9120 or email: enquiries@perform.org.uk to book or visit: www.perform.org.uk/holidays

Way!

Join us every school holiday at one of our settings and enjoy a fun-filled programme of activities that will leave you with lasting memories, new friends and fantastic experiences.

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Clubs & classes news Baby and Toddler Spanish with Hummingbird Spanish Babies and toddlers have a greater capacity for tuning into foreign language sounds now than at any other time in their lives. Hummingbird Spanish using the famous La Jolie Ronde method offers a unique opportunity to introduce babies and toddlers to the sounds, patterns and rhythm of Spanish. Not only do young children absorb words and phrases easily through repeated exposure to the language, but they also develop other skills alongside. Spanish lessons for 0-3 and 3-5 year-olds are available now in Shirley, Southampton. It’s never too early to start, with small class sizes and a supportive, fun environment which allows you to have fun with your child while they learn! Why so young? Babies absorb the sounds, patterns, and intonations of language long before they can talk. Infants understand and react on the basis of sensory experience, so songs, toys, and action rhymes are used in the sessions. Baby Spanish not only gives you a fun way to bond with your child and meet other parents, but your baby will recognise familiar voices, understand gestures associated with Spanish words, and respond when spoken to. It’s free to try, so why not book a taster and experience the fun for yourself? Call Ruth on 07513 000 798 or email ruth@hummingbirdlanguages.com for more information.

Make a Milestone with Baby Paddlers Baby Paddlers swim classes are a fun way to build your child’s confidence in water. We are delighted to announce the launch of our new Milestones programme which offers parents and children a fun structured programme to help them make the most of their time in the water. The programme focusses on developing key skills and the children will earn “milestones” along the way. Splashers 0-12 months, Paddlers 12—24 months, Kickers 24-36 months and Swimmers 36 – 48 months. Visit www.babypaddlers.co.uk to find your local class.

Families Hampshire West

Perform weekly drama, dance and singing classes Perform is a unique children’s drama school that has a special emphasis on child development. Perform uses a mix of drama, dance and singing to bring out every child’s full potential. Run by highly experienced actor-teachers, in small groups, Perform classes focus on developing the 4 Cs: Confidence, Communication, Coordination, and Concentration. Each term sees a brand new theme to keep imaginations buzzing. This Summer Perform’s 4-7s group will be saddling up and going on a Wild West adventure to find the Horse with the Golden Mane. The 7-12s will be zooming off on a fun-filled outer space adventure with Robinson Crusoe in a space-age version of the castaway survival classic. Perform offer no-obligation free sessions for newcomers. To book a free class today visit www.perform.org.uk/try or call 020 7255 9120. Your local classes are available at: St Thomas Church Hall, Lymington, SO41 9ND United Abbey Reform Church, Romsey, SO51 8ET Highfield Church Centre, Southampton, SO17 1RL Holy Trinity Parish Church, Winchester, SO23 8DG

Are you looking for an activity for your children where they can learn new skills, make friends and have fun in the fresh air? This summer, get your youngsters active by introducing them to sailing and windsurfing through RYA OnBoard. They’ll learn an exciting new sport in a safe environment, get out on the water and gain valuable life skills from problem solving to taking responsibility. Once they get started in sailing the opportunities are endless. Everything you need is provided by the instructor. It’s affordable, fun and you don’t need to have done it before. Anyone aged 8-18 can take part in OnBoard sessions and with over 245 RYA approved venues across the country there’s bound to be one near you. You might even find you want to join in too! To find your nearest OnBoard activity visit rya.org.uk/onboard

www.familiesonline.co.uk

BOOK YOUR PLACE today!

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The world’s favourite rugby play programme

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13/02/2017 21:08

See the endless possibilities sailing and windsurfing can bring Keep your children stimulated, active and entertained this summer by introducing them to sailing or windsurfing through the RYA’s OnBoard programme. They’ll learn an exciting new activity in a safe, structured environment and gain valuable life skills, from problem solving and decision making to leadership and teamwork. The programme also compliments school curriculums in many key subject areas. Fun, affordable and open to anyone age 8-18, there are over 245 RYA approved clubs and centres across the country taking part. To find your nearest visit rya.org.uk/onboard

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Education

times tables

Hands up who got their iPhone out the last time they had to add anything up? You’re not the only one. Relying on a calculator is easy and convenient but getting to grips with maths and, in particular, times tables, is vital for children if they are to succeed at school.

How to teach your kids.......easily

Here are some top tips to help you.

What should they know?

How and what children learn in primary school sets them up for success in secondary school. If the foundations are in place for them to be able to work out an equation like 3x6=18 without using a calculator, then they will find it easier when it comes to tackling harder arithmetic. The education curriculum changes, but at the moment, children are required to know 12x12 by the age of nine.

How can you help them know it?

Buy posters of times tables or make your own; you can then stick them up throughout the house. On the wall opposite the loo, or under a magnet on the fridge, so that they are taking it in without even realising it. You can even tape it to the ceiling above their bed so that they have something to talk about with you when you’re snuggling down, instead of a bed-time story.

Start with the twos

Adding two to a previous number is something most children will find achievable in primary school and this sets up a pattern for learning about the other times tables. The 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 pattern has an easy rhythm to help remember it.

Apply it to real life Helping your little ones at home and doing some extra work to ensure they feel confident in their learning can almost be as important as what they do in the classroom. It can, however, be tricky to navigate the teaching journey when you’re not actually a teacher. The thing that can really turn children off learning their times tables is the practise it will take. Mixing up the way they spend their time practising is important for sparking their interest and holding their attention.

If times tables is something your children can apply to daily life, they will show much more of an interest. Instead of testing what they know, be playful about it when you’re at the supermarket and they’re helping you with the shopping. If you’re buying loose fruit and veg, ask them if they know what the price would be if you bought three instead of two.

Find out what works best

Like anything with children, once you discover what works best for them – stick to it. If your child learns best using visual aids then go down

that route. If, on the other hand, listening and chanting helps them learn, then explore the different types of apps available on the iPad or computer and try downloading some of them. It may be a good idea to keep these activities supervised so that if your child does make a mistake and comes up with a wrong answer, you are on hand to explain where they may have gone wrong and encourage them to try again.

Pick out the patterns

Come on, admit it; everyone has a favourite times table. It’s probably your favourite because you find it the easiest to remember or you like the pattern. Picking up on things like this will make it easier for your little ones to learn. The 9 times table has one of the easiest patterns to remember because, whilst the tens go up each time, the other number just goes down; 9, 18, 27, 36, 45, 54, 63, 72, 81 and 90.

Don’t bring your own feelings into it

Teaching methods have changed a lot since us parents were learning our times tables. Your children are probably learning in a completely different way now so chances are that you may have to brush up on your arithmetic too. Ordering yourself something like Maths for Mums and Dads could help if you are feeling outside of our comfort zone when you’re topping up the teaching at home. Discovering new ways of learning can make it fun for both of you.

Build their confidence

There is more to maths than arithmetic and it’s important that your little ones don’t lose interest in maths as a subject because it feels too difficult or seems too time consuming. Break down learning into bite-size chunks and make it as playful as possible. Encourage your children and praise them for trying when they do. Show them how far they have come since last week or last month and this should spur them on to keep improving.

Explore Learning offer their top tips for learning times tables Learning times tables is a key milestone in every child’s schooling, but for some it can be a real hurdle to overcome. At Explore Learning we work on building a great attitude towards learning, so our members are confident to take on challenges whether this is a specific times table they find hard or any new maths concept that they need to persevere with. Here are a few top tips you can try with your child to help build their confidence:

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Learning something new alongside them, to show you find things challenging as well. Check how much you’ve both learnt so the pressure isn’t all on them!

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Learn through play or songs. Playing games like SumFun or using apps like Maths Rockx turns learning into an enjoyable experience.

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Praise them for their attitude towards learning, having a go and noticing where they’ve gone wrong, rather than just for getting things right.

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Find ways to help them break down problems to make them easier, for example if they find the 8 times tables challenging, but know their 4s then they just need to double the answer to the same question in the fours.

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Many children see each set of tables in isolation so they think they don’t know the 7 times tables, when they’ve mastered many of the others. If they know the 1,2,3,5,9,10 and 11 times tables then they already know the majority of the 7 times tables. Getting them to see that 5x7 is the same as 7x5 will help them succeed.

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The benefits of children learning a new language Every parent wants the very best for their child. This often means guiding them into new skills that will help them to grow and mature. There are many benefits – both short and long-term – to your child becoming bilingual. Here are just a few that you might not have thought of.... It promotes self-discipline

From an early age, your child should be taught that nothing comes without hard work. It’s true that learning a second language can be very rewarding, but it will take a lot of time and determination to do so. Therefore, as well as learning a new language, your child will learn a valuable lesson about how success is only achieved through self-discipline and effort.

It’s fun

Your child will no doubt be smiling from ear to ear when they get the opportunity to show off their newfound skill. The learning process can also be enjoyable if you incorporate a few games in along the way as well as interactive teaching methods. Remember, you don’t have to spend hours in a classroom to learn a new language, some people even develop their accent and pronunciation by watching popular TV shows in a different language.

It’s great for communication

Whether your child is learning French, German, Chinese or Japanese, they will be able to communicate with a wider range of people once they have crafted their new skill. This should also help with their understanding of the world and acceptance of different cultures.

It comes in extremely handy

Knowing an additional language can come in very handy. While we already know that it can go far in sprawling cities like London, your child will also find it useful whenever they go abroad. This means that holidays won’t just be about sun, sea and sand but another adventure where your young one can hone their skills.

It helps with education

Studies have shown that being bilingual can help your child excel in school. This is because the process of learning an extra language improves the function of the brain. In particular, problem solving is one area that should develop, making it easier for your child to excel in difficult subjects like maths.

Your child’s English can improve

In many cases, your child’s grasp on English will improve after they have learnt a new language. This is because they will have an increased awareness when it comes to root words, syntax and grammar. In turn, this will help develop your child’s writing skills, which should be noticeable when they get older and start taking important exams.

New school menu app! Do you struggle to keep track of which school meal is served on which day? Prefer to look at menu information on your mobile devices, rather than holding onto a leaflet for the whole term? Need digital access on-the-go? GREAT NEWS! We’ve launched a brand new school menu app called , to show you our Southampton school meals, day by day, for the whole term!

It can lead to wider career options

The best employers take notice of bilingualism because it reflects self-discipline. Essentially, bilingualism is just another skill that will (one day) make your child’s CV stand out.

It’s easier to learn now

Most adults have visions of one day learning a language but sadly it can be quite difficult in later life. As well as busy lifestyles getting in the way, as we become older, it becomes harder for the brain to absorb new information like it once could. That is why it is beneficial for your child to start learning another language from a young age.

Other languages will also come naturally

Once your child knows an additional language, they will find it easier to learn a third language in the future.

Start your child’s linguistic journey today

All parents should give some serious thought to their child learning another language. While most children will be able to grasp the skill from as young as three, the majority will still benefit from starting their linguistic journey before they reach high school.

Access school menus from yr mobile No need to figure out ‘which week?’! See photos of what’s for lunch Look ahead for the whole school term ‘Love’ favourite dishes & get recipes

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Carry on camping Getting closer to nature and spending time as a family away from work and technology are great reasons to take a family camping trip. Now, a recent study has found that a weekend under canvas can help re-set your body clocks and improve sleeping habits too. If there’s one thing that exercises us parents more than stressing about how much time our children spend indoors using gadgets, it’s our own lack of sleep.

It’s almost inevitable that the good old British weather will throw a few raindrops your way, but snuggling inside with a pitter patter overhead is all part of the experience, and it’s not miserable if you go prepared. •

Take a trilby, peak cap and/or umbrella

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An extra gazebo for eating in and playing games can be a god send in the rain and means that your sleeping tent won’t get trashed with muddy feet.

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Card games like UNO, Whot! Or Dobble go down well, as does a good Roald Dahl.

Re-setting your body clock is one thing, but you want to make sure you sleep well while you’re camping too. Keeping warm is key.

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Before you go, research where the local museums and cinemas are.

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Make sure you are protected from the cold from the ground. Invest in a good quality thermal mat.

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Go swimming. If you can’t beat it, join it – and the beauty is you can use the showers and changing facilities to get clean and dry.

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Go for bedding that works for you. If you don’t like sleeping bags, take your duvet.

•

Calories keep you warm. Eating something before you go to sleep can really help in warming you up and keeping you warm into the night.

So what’s stopping you dusting off that old sleeping bag and getting your pitch booked? If you’re still feeling tent-ative (ho ho!) Here are a few pointers…

Snug as a bug in a rug…..

•

Wear layers and keep your head warm. Some sleeping bags are designed to go over your head, but if you’re not keen on that then wear a fleecy hat and get the kids to do the same.

Let there be light…

Head torches are a great idea. Kids love them and they mean you can be hands-free for toilet trips, getting dressed, eating and reading. A torch that hooks onto the top of the tent is also useful so you can find your bits and pieces and play games. Glow sticks outside are great for spotting kids in the dark.

If it does rain….

Pack these luxury items to make the experience ex tra special fo r everyone: Hot chocolate Bunting Magazines Gin and Tonic

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Tips to keep your child cool in the sun

Easycamp holidays at Lepe Beach Campsite Lepe Beach Campsite, new for 2017, only yards from the beach, is a traditional camping field that offers nothing flashy but, instead, focuses on doing the basics well. Facilities are immaculately kept, pitches are flat, well-maintained and campfires are permitted with pits available to hire and wood for purchase. Caravans are not permitted, giving the whole campsite a more peaceful, informal ambience – you can pitch where you like with enough space that you needn’t tread on others’ toes – and if you really can’t bear roughing it, there are pre-furnished tents which include camp beds, camping chairs and plenty of cooking utensils. The campsite backs onto Lepe Country Park where there’s a large picnic area, climbing frame and swings for little ones to roam. Really, the country park and the campsite seem to roll into one, making it a thoroughly family-friendly location, with the added bonus of Lepe Beach Café and Shop down on the waterfront, which serves afternoon tea and delicious hand-made cakes. Plus, the views from Lepe Beach Campsite’s are picturesque, taking in the Isle of Wight and, to the east, the marsh and sand flats of the Solent National Nature Reserve. visit www.eazycamp.co.uk for more information or to book.

Babies and young children can become seriously ill during very hot weather suffering from dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heatstroke and so it’s vital you know how to keep them cool. On sunny days babies under six months should never be in direct sunlight and young children should be kept in the shade as much as possible, especially between 11am and 3pm. Attach a parasol or sunshade to the pushchair and make sure toddlers and older children wear a sunhat, preferably one with a wide brim or a long flap at the back, to protect their head and neck. Apply high factor sunscreen even when there is cloud coverage and re-apply regularly, particularly if your child is in and out of the sea or a paddling pool. Keeping hydrated - babies and infants are sensitive to even small amounts of fluid loss so one of the biggest problems during warmer weather is dehydration which, in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Tips for keeping your child cool during the day • • • • •

Avoid synthetic fabrics that trap heat; opt for loose natural fibres like cotton or muslin. Stay in the shade and encourage your child to spend some quiet time to prevent them sweating too much. Playing in a paddling pool will keep kiddies cool. Keep it in the shade and supervise their play. Use cold, wet flannels, or give them a tepid bath or shower to cool their skin. Let them air dry rather than using towels. Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids.

Tips for keeping your child cool at night • • • •

Remove unnecessary bedding. Open windows in several rooms to create a through breeze Give them a tepid bath, or sponge bath, before bed and let them air dry while lying on a towel so the evaporation of the water will cool their skin Keep bedrooms cool throughout the day by closing blinds or curtains.

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Your guide to family events this May & June. Don’t forget to check with the venue before setting off just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print. Visit our website for inspirational ideas for fun days out near you. www.familiesonline.co.uk

Throughout May & June Be a Wild Explorer Marwell Wildlife Winchester, SO21 1JH Explore Marwell Zoo and get closer to the wonders of the natural world. Open daily 10.30am – 6pm. Throughout May & June Gruffalo Spotters Trail Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary Newtown, SO43 7GQ 11am – 4pm Trail dates Sat 27 May - Sun 4 June. Bring the Gruffalo and other characters to life at Bolderwood with our brand new Gruffalo Spotters trail and exciting augmented reality app. Download The Gruffalo Spotter app and along the trail look out for clues which lead to footprint marker posts - point the app at these and watch Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and the Gruffalo appear before your eyes! It is aimed at younger children, but the whole family can enjoy following clues and collecting evidence. Throughout May & June Mini Fun Fair The Pleasure Park Southampton, SO16 7AY Open daily 10.30am - 5pm With over 20 attractions, The Pleasure Park is situated on Southampton’s Sport Centre and is a great value mini fun fair for younger children. 4 May – 27 July (Thursday) Story Time Shirley Library Southampton, SO15 5LL 10.30 – 11am, Free Story time is a fun and interactive storytelling activity designed for under 5s. The session is free and there is no need to book - just turn up! Runs weekly on Thursdays 5 May - 28 July (Friday) Rhyme Time Bitterne Library Southampton, SO18 5EG 10.30am – 11am Rhyme time is a fun and interactive singing activity for under 5s.

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6 May Spring Fayre in Wonderland St Matthews Church Hall Netley Marsh, SO40 7GY 2pm - 4pm Friends of Netley Marsh School Association proudly present ‘Spring Fayre in Wonderland’ on the 6th May 2017 at St Matthews Church Hall. There will be hot dogs, cakes and ice cream for sale, as well as children’s games and more. Admission is 50p for adults, children go free.

Fun, wildlife themed outdoor activities for pre-school children and their parents or carers. Suggested donation £4 per child, contact susan. simmonds@hiwwt.org.uk to book.

families work independently with the leaders overseeing. Campfire cooking is a part of every session and we provide enough for children and parents. Booking is essential.

13 May Fairy trail Avon Tyrrell Youth Outdoor Activity Centre Bransgore, BH23 8EE Avon Tyrrell is a magical place that is home to some truly spectacular creatures. Do you believe in fairies? Follow the clues and you just might. Enjoy some crafts, outdoor art and bushcraft elements as part of this magical adventure. Ages 5-8. £5.

13 - 14 May Flour Power Weekend Bursledon Windmill Southampton, SO31 8BG 10.30am – 3pm. To celebrate National Mills weekend we will be running a flour powered event, come along and follow the process from grain to loaf. Radio enthusiasts will be broadcasting from site, tour the windmill and see the processes in action and get involved in lots of fun craft activities.

13 May Movie and Make: Moana Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT 10.30am, £6 Enjoy a fun-packed morning of movies and making. Watch the film and then join in the craft activity in the gallery and create a fun thing to take home. 13 & 20 May Family Forest School: Benches, Axes, Fires, Bows & Arrows Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ 10am – 12 noon, £15, Ages 5 -10 A two hour session in the woodland for children aged 5 - 10 years and their families. Younger siblings are welcome. This older range enables us to use slightly riskier tools and more complicated projects. Each session has a ‘loose’ theme, we go through the skills and safety required for each tool and project and then

14 May Lymington Lifeboat 10k and children’s fun runs Woodside Park Lymington, SO41 8FP Now in its 16th year the 10K race takes place in the beautiful coastal location of Lymington. Online entry is £12 and the last date for registration is May 12th. There will be refreshments available throughout the event, plus medals, chocolate bars and bottled water at the finish. There are also 1k and 2k fun runs for 5-15 year olds, plus a shorter run for under 5s. Child £3, under 5s free. 20 -21 May Longdown Vintage Farm Rally Ashurst, SO40 7EH The New Forest Vintage Tractor and Engine Club are back with their fantastic exhibits. There will be lots for the children to see and do including bumpy tractor rides and

6 May School Open Morning Moyles Court School Ringwood, BH24 3NF 10am – 12.30pm Moyles Court School is unique in that it lies within the boundaries of the New Forest National Park. Come and find out more at their forthcoming open day. 6 May Countryside Day Mottisfont - National Trust nr Romsey, SO51 0LP A day of activities and adventure celebrating the great outdoors. There’ll be a number of interactive stalls showcasing traditional skills, and you’ll be able to find out more about the work the countryside team do on Stockbridge Down, the River Test and the New Forest. Normal admission charges apply.

Tree climbing day at Hinton Ampner

11 May Little Adventurers: the Bug Hunt Mottisfont - National Trust nr Romsey, SO51 0LP 10.30am - 11.30am Little Adventurers is a new outdoor learning group for children aged two - five years old and their parents or carers. Have fun with exciting activities that promote physical activity and adventures in the great outdoors. Normal admission charges plus £3 per child. Booking essential. 11 May Winnall Wildlife Tots – Superworm Winnall Moors Nature Reserve Winchester, SO23 8DX 9.30am – 11am

Monday 29 May one hour sessions 10am 4pm The Great Big Tree Climbing Company will show you the ropes and help you climb up into the canopy of one of our old oak trees before taking a zip wire back to the ground. Adults £20 Children £15 Call 03442 491 895 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/HintonAmpner #nationaltrust

When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.

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the fabulous tractor v children tug of war. Normal admission charges. 20 May Common Have a Go - Community fun day The Green Colden Common Winchester, SO21 1UU 11am – 4pm, Free There will be many activities, local businesses, food outlets, demonstrations and live entertainment. 20 - 21 May Live Science Shows with Jon Chase Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ 10am – 5pm Get interactive with BBC science communicator Jon Chase as he explores the mysterious effects of everyday forces. Enjoy full access to the Centres two floors of hands-on interactive science exhibits, the Invention Studio and the outdoor picnic and play area. There’s also direct access from Winchester Science Centre to Magdalen Hill Butterfly Conservation reserve for those who want to experience views across the South Downs National Park. Lives shows at 11am 12.30pm, 2pm and 3.30pm. Show tickets cost £1 on top of general admission. 20 May All Creatures Great and Small The Berry Theatre Southampton, SO30 4EJ 3pm & 6.30pm, £8.50 - £10.50 Dance and Cheer-a-cality 2017 showcase, celebrates all creatures great and small in a medley of

dance, singing and cheerleading. 21 May Southampton 10k Run Royal Victoria Country Park Southampton, SO31 5GA 10.30am 10k race organised by the Southampton Running Club. 21 May The Great British Dog Walk Foxbury Common West Wellow, SO51 6AQ 10.30am, Adults: £10 Children under 16 and dogs free Join our fab charity walk for all dog lovers to support Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. This will be a fab charity walk for dog lovers of all ages. Lots of fun activities for both adults and children, stalls with great gifts, homemade crafts and refreshments. By coming, you’ll be helping us to raise vital funds to train more life-changing hearing dogs. 23 May – 27 June (Tuesdays) Story Time Southampton Central Library Southampton, SO14 7LW 11 – 11.30am Story time is a fun and interactive storytelling activity designed for under 5s. The session is free and there is no need to book. 24 – 29 May Southampton Sailing Week Royal Southampton Yacht Club Southampton, SO14 3QF Action packed week to celebrate everything that is Sailing and Southampton. One of the World’s top locations for Sailing the Solent and Southampton Waters are

home to World Famous races and Southampton Sailing week is here to celebrate all things sailing and encourage more people to enjoy the water. 25 – 28 May The First Hippo on the Moon Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB A fantastical adventure featuring puppetry, music, mayhem and a giant space race to the moon! Tickets £13 or family of four £40. 26 May – 5 June High Voltage Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium Winchester, SO21 1HZ 10am – 5pm An exciting exploration of electricity in these super-charged live science shows and electrifying demonstrations. Enjoy full access to the Centre’s two floors of hands-on interactive science exhibits, the Invention Studio and the outdoor picnic and play area. Live shows are included in general admission at no extra charge. An extended programme of planetarium shows, including live, presenter-led shows and 360˚ fulldome films. Planetarium shows carry an additional charge. Save 10% on admission if booked online in advance. Live shows at 11am, 12 noon, 1pm and 2pm daily. 27 May & 10 June Model Search Swan Centre Eastleigh, SO50 5PB 11am – 4pm Come and get spotted at the Swan Centre ModelSearch

2017, and you could become the face of the Centre. Our model scouts will be searching the malls for the faces of the future and photographing their favourites ahead of our casting day on 4 July. The competition is open to both male and female contestants aged 4 years and above and there is no upper age limit. All contestants under 16 must obtain parental consent before attending the scouting days. 27 May – 4 June May half-term Trail Hinton Ampner - National Trust nr Alresford, SO24 0LA 10am – 5pm Hinton Ampner is springing to life! Our trail gets you out around our gardens and parkland exploring and solving clues as you go along. 27 May – 5 June Love your wildlife park The New Forest Wildlife Park Ashurst, SO40 4UH Talk to the keepers and find out what the New Forest Wildlife Park do for conservation. Take part in a ‘love your zoo’ quiz, £1 per quiz and everyone gets a prize! Normal admission charges apply. 27 May Totton and Eling Arts Festival Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT The event showcases the amazing talent

age! High Volt Friday 26 May - Monday 5 June, 10am - 5pm Shockingly good live science shows explore the exciting world of electricity. Included in general admission. Advance online bookings save 10%. 01962 863 791 winchestersciencecentre.org May/June 2017

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that Totton and Eling has to offer through a range of diverse activities including; art exhibitions, street art, live music, local dance and theatre groups, dance performances, as well as a variety of interactive arts workshops for everyone to enjoy. Most events will be free or a small charge to keep activities accessible to all. On the recreation ground at Hanger Farm, there will be a large outdoor Arts and Crafts Market, plus children’s workshops and large scale outdoor performances. 27 May – 4 June Summer half term Marwell Wildlife Winchester, SO21 1JH Head off on a wild journey around the zoo collecting stamps of your favourite exotic and endangered animals. Once you’ve found the hidden stamps, fill in the answers and complete your mission you could even win an annual membership for two adults and two children! Plus, look out for new arrivals including Norbert the pygmy hippo, and the playful Amur tiger and Amur leopard cubs all growing up fast. 27 May – 4 June May half-term Trail: My Great Day Out Mottisfont - National Trust nr Romsey, SO51 0LP There’s space for plenty of adventure at Mottisfont. Inspired by colourful travel posters in the gallery, take a ‘journey’ through the grounds and write your own adventure story. What happens is completely up to you. Normal admission applies, plus suggested donation of £1 per trail.

27 May – 4 June Half term trail Lepe Country Park Exbury, SO45 1AD 10am – 3pm, £2 Fun for all the family, pick up a trail card from the park office and return with the correct answers to claim your prize. 27 May – 4 June May half-term trail Winchester City Mill Winchester, SO23 9BH 10 rubber ducks, now marooned within the Mill, have spoken out about their experience of being lost at sea. Become a newspaper reporter and find each duck to record their favourite moment out at sea. Take part in the trail to win a prize. You can also select a racing duck from the pond whilst you’re at the Mill, every day this May halfterm. 27 – 28 May Common People Southampton Southampton Common Southampton, SO15 7NN From the same creators as Camp Bestival, Common People is returning to Southampton for another year where you can expect some of the newest and well known acts in the country. 27 May – 4 June Fantasy Creatures Trail Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ 10:30am - 4pm, £2 per trail pack Walk through the woods to find the answers to your questions then run back for your prize.

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Chandlers Ford Industrial Estate Eastleigh | SO53 4DG 02382 247811

28 May Children’s Fun Day Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum Southampton, SO31 7HB 11am to 4pm / Adults £6; Concs. £5; Children £4; Families £15 Activities aimed at children aged 3 – 90! All kinds of things to do with child focussed entertainment for the day. The entry price includes the museum which will be all steamed up and the old machinery working. Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway Trust will be running their trains and the café open. 28 – 29 May Day out with Thomas Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway Eastleigh, SO50 5PE Enjoy a ‘Day out with Thomas’ at Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway. Tickets include; unlimited rides, magic shows and entertainment, imagination station, sing along and interactive story time with the Fat Controller and more. Tickets: Adult £15, Child £12. 28 May Start of summer garden pool party Avon Tyrrell Youth Outdoor Activity Centre Bransgore, BH23 8EE Kick off your summer at Avon Tyrrell’s garden pool party. Music, field games and watersports in the outdoor pool will guarantee you make a big splash! Got a water pistol? Bring it along and join the water fight! Tickets £5 per person. 29 - 30 May Horrible Histories Live Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB Prepare yourselves for Horrible Histories live on stage featuring all your favourite characters from Britain’s barmy past! Could you beat battling Boudicca? Will King John be a martyr for the Magna Carta? Will you lose your heart or your head to Henry VIII? It’s the history of Britain with the nasty bits left in! £17 29 May The 999 Show: Celebrating the emergency services The National Motor Museum Beaulieu SO42 7ZN The police, fire & rescue, ambulance, judiciary, coastguard, NHS, prison and probation services will be joining Beaulieu for this special event to mark Mary Montagu-Scott (sister of Lord Montagu) becoming the High Sheriff of Hampshire in 2017. 30 May – 1 June May half-term pumpkin seed planting Winchester City Mill Winchester, SO23 9BH 11am – 3pm Tick off one of your 50 Things to Do before You’re 11 & 3/4; with pumpkin seed planting in the Mill’s island garden. Normal admission apply. 30 May – 1 June Pond dipping Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA 1pm – 4pm Can you find diving beetles, nimble pond skaters and slimy snails? Join Hillier Gardens for pond dipping on

Tuesdays and Thursdays during school holidays. Can you find diving beetles, nimble pond skaters and slimy snails? All equipment is provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult. £1.50 per child, no need to book, drop in. 30 May Kiting Kapers Royal Victoria Country Park Southampton, SO31 5GA 10am – 4pm, £6 per child Join our workshop and make your own kite, then take it outdoors for a ‘test run’. Suitable for 3-8 yr olds. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Spaces are limited so please book and pay in advance. Sessions 10am-12pm or 2pm - 4pm. 31 May Magic on the farm with Silly Scott Longdown Activity Farm Ashurst, SO40 7EH Enjoy lots of madcap humour and magical mayhem with one of the UK’s top family entertainers. 31 May Dogs Don’t Do Ballet Hanger Farm Arts Centre West Totton, SO40 8FT 11.30am & 2.30pm, £10 Brought to the stage by acclaimed Blunderbus Theatre Company, this hilarious new story for ages 3+ tells the very funny tale of a small dog with big dreams! This feelgood show features music, songs, hand-crafted puppets and Biff, the ballet-dancing dog. 2 June Father’s Day Craft Swan Centre Eastleigh, SO50 5PB 11am-3.30pm. Free Crafty kids are invited to come along to the Centre and make a special Father’s Day card and win a prize for themselves and their Dad! 2 June Cooking around the fire Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Romsey, SO51 0QA Cook your homemade treats over the fire and then enjoy eating them! Collect some herbs and take them up to the woods to flavour your bread dough and vegetable “turtle”. Suitable for ages 4-12 years, all children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential, £12 for 1 child + 1 adult. 3 June Droxford Country Fair Droxford Recreation Ground Droxford, SO32 3QR 12.30pm – 4pm Enjoy a jam packed family day out with a ‘Down on the Farm’ theme at the Droxford Country Fair. Archery, falconry, May pole dancing, live music, dog show, fancy dress competition, llamas, sheep, coconut shy, hoopla, ladder toss, pot-luck, this year’s new game ‘chicken in a basket’, train rides, pony rides, ice cream, Margaret’s famous BBQ, bar selling local ale and local artisans selling hand made products, local produce, plants, flowers and cakes. Don’t forget to say you saw these advertised in Families Hampshire West Magazine

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Shop, dine & play BIG NAME RESTAURANTS, CINEMA, BOWLING, PLAY CENTRES AND REGULAR KID’S ENTERTAINMENT MAKE THE SWAN CENTRE THE IDEAL DESTINATION FOR CHILDREN

the swan centre eastleigh

www.swanshopping.com

@swaneastleigh

V isit 27 May - 4 June 2017 Travel through time this May Half-Term with loads of themed activities included in your admission fee!

Step back in time to the 18th century village where ships for Nelson’s Navy were built

Archery

Monastic Life

Falconry

tory

Living His

and much more! Entry includes all Beaulieu attractions: National Motor Museum, Palace House and Gardens, Beaulieu Abbey and World of Top Gear

Find out more:

beaulieu.co.uk

New Forest | Hampshire | SO42 7ZN 01590 612345 Free Parking Open daily from 10am May/June 2017

Maritime Museum & The Buckler’s Hard Story Living History • Kids Quiz Trail Cruise the Beaulieu River (seasonal) • Tea Rooms Buckler’s Hard | New Forest | SO42 7XB Open daily from 10am

Tel 01590 616203 bucklershard.co.uk Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

24 – 25 June Paw Patrol visit Paultons Family Theme Park Ower, Romsey, SO51 6AL 10.30am – 4pm See Paw Patrol characters at Paultons Park. No job is too big and no pup is too small for Paw Patrol, as they take a break from Adventure Bay to visit Paultons Park. See Police Pup Chase, Fearless Skye and Fire Dog Marshall on the 24th and 25th of June at intervals throughout each day. Normal admission charges apply.

2 June Little Foresters Woodland Stories: Owl Babies Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ 10.30am to 12 noon. £5 per child Booking essential 023 8068 3790. A themed outdoor session for children aged 2 – 5 years and their parent based on the book including crafts, activities, story and campfire. 3 June Autism friendly chill out sessions Woolston Library Southampton, SO19 9EF 11am – 1pm, free For the sessions our meeting room will be set up with low level lighting and with large and portable sensory equipment available. Additionally comfy bean bags and a range of books will be utilised to create a comfortable calm space for families to use, either to stay in or dip in and out of as they use the full range of library resources and services elsewhere in the building. 3 – 4 June Strawberry Weekend Bursledon Windmill Southampton, SO31 8BG 10:30am - 3pm A celebration of the local Strawberry industry with lots of strawberry related activities. We will have crafts for the children and a display of local photos to accompany a talk from local historian Jeff Martin on the Strawberry Industry at 2pm each day. 8 June - 13 July Storytelling fun for under 5’s Bursledon Windmill Southampton, SO31 8BG 10.30am – 11.30am, £3.50 Come and join us at the beautiful Bursledon Windmill on Thursdays during the summer for storytelling fun. Interactive storytelling and rhyme with a new story every week in a friendly atmosphere and a great location. The event runs June 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, July 6th and 13th. 09 – 11 June Hurst Dubfest Hurst View Campsite Pennington, SO41 8AL Hurst Dubfest is a family friendly, fantastic, fun filled festival with a perfect laid back atmosphere. Set just back from the sea, with magnificent views across the western Solent approaches to the Isle of Wight and the Needles rocks. There will be bands throughout the weekend as well as magicians, Kids Got Talent, dog show, a bar and much more. A weekend camping ticket is £60 for 2 adults (children are free), or pay on the gate £5 for a day ticket. 10 June Ringwood Family Fun Day Carvers Recreation Ground Ringwood, BH24 1JD 1pm – 6pm Ringwood Family Fun Day is a completely free event, for the whole community. It’s organised by local churches and supported by the Town Council, local businesses and organisations. There will be family friendly activities and entertainment for all ages, including food, crafts, live bands, animals and inflatables.

Families Hampshire West

13 June Little Foresters Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ 10am to 11.30am. £5 per child Booking is essential 023 8068 3790 A woodland session for children age 2 – 5 years with a parent including activities, story and campfire. 16 – 17 June Vicky Park Music Festival Royal Victoria Country Park Southampton, SO31 5GA Summer is festival season, and what better way to kick it off than with Vicky Park Music Festival. Back for a third year running, with an extra date added to the mix and it’s a perfect way to celebrate the summer with family and friends in the tranquil surroundings of Royal Victoria Country Park. There is a special camping evening on 16th June. 17 June Father’s Day summer campout Avon Tyrrell Youth Outdoor Activity Centre Bransgore, BH23 8EE Pitch your tent for the Father’s Day Campout and join in an afternoon of challenges and games before toasting marshmallows around the fire with stories from the camp guides. Spend time together under the stars and enjoy the great outdoors with fun activities for the whole family. £10 per person. 17 June 30-hour record Millathon Winchester City Mill Winchester, SO23 9BH Support the volunteer millers, throughout this free weekend with 30 hours of non-stop milling, in aid of Winchester City Mill’s fundraising campaign. The historic watermill will be open to visitors throughout the day and all through the night. Why not take this rare opportunity to visit the Mill by moonlight, learn how the experts make flour, take part in the family quiz and, if you’re lucky, you may spot visiting otters. 17 June Gung-Ho! Southampton Southampton Common Southampton, SO15 7NN Gung-Ho! is back for 2017...bigger and bouncier... than ever! You can take part in the most unique inflatable 5k fun run or fun walk, the country has ever seen. Taking

on ten of the greatest inflatable obstacles we could design. Our finale is one of the world’s most unique slides and Europe’s biggest ever inflatable slide. Open to all people no matter if you’re a seasoned marathon runner or if you just fancy joining in the fun, everyone that wants to take part can. 17 – 18 June The Home Front at Manor Farm Manor Farm and Country Park Burlesdon, SO31 1BH 10am Manor Farm rolls back to the 1940’s for our annual Home Front weekend. A host of wartime reenactors bringing history to life with activities, demonstrations, vintage vehicles and stalls. 17 June Family Forest School: Campfire Cooking, Knife Use, Billy Can Supports Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ 10am – 12 noon, £15 Two hour session in the woodland for children aged 5 - 10 years and their families. This older range enables us to use slightly riskier tools and more complicated projects. Each session has a ‘loose’ theme, we go through the skills and safety required for each tool and project and then families work independently with the leaders overseeing. Campfire cooking is a part of every session and we provide enough for children and parents. Booking is essential. 18 June Hot Rod and Custom Drive In Day The National Motor Museum Beaulieu, SO42 7ZN Make it an unforgettable Father’s Day at the Beaulieu Hot Rod and Custom Drive in Day. The South’s biggest Hot Rod and Custom event features hundreds of cool, colourful custom cars, live music and hip entertainment throughout the day. Free entry for Dads. 18 June Father’s Day Fun Winchester City Mill Winchester, SO23 9BH 11am – 4pm Visit Winchester City Mill where there are milling and baking demonstrations throughout the day.

24 June Wild about Mud Blashford Lakes Centre Ringwood, BH24 3PJ 10am – 12 noon A family event in celebration of international mud month! There will be muddy play and craft activities; painting, face painting, sculpting all round mud fun! Wear old clothes - and maybe bring a change of clothes too! Suggested donation £4 per person. 24 June One Great Day Swan Centre Eastleigh, SO50 5PB 11am-3.30pm Join us for a day of family fun to raise money for Ronald McDonald House Southampton and Great Ormond Street. This is set to be a fantastic day with lots of free activities for the children, including face painting, craft and much more. 24 – 25 June Dene Rally - Steam & Vintage Rally Dene Rally Ropley, SO24 0HA The 6th steam and vintage rally in the beautiful Hampshire countryside. With fun for both the young and the young at heart and exhibits large and small. With free vintage connecting bus service to the Watercress Line. 25 June Country Fair Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum Southampton, SO31 7HB 11am – 4pm, Adults £6; Concs. £5; Children £4; Families £15 One of our most popular days. We turn the old factory into the countryside for the day – well, as best we can. Come and see the museum itself and then add animals, crafts, displays and more. Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway Trust will be running their trains and the café open. 29 June Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday Theatre Royal Winchester Winchester, SO23 8SB 1:30pm and 3:30pm, £12 The enchanting world of Sarah and Duck is brought to life in a brand-new stage show, featuring the wonderful characters from the BAFTA award-winning CBeebies show. Told through a fantastic blend of puppetry, storytelling and music, Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday will take you and your children on a magical adventure.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families competitions

WIN

WIN a family ticket to one of Hampshire’s Top Attractions to enjoy this summer We are so lucky living in Hampshire and having some of the UK’s best attractions on our doorstep. We boast some of the best days out for families from theme parks to glorious gardens, adventure activities to cultural delights and historical heritage. To celebrate, we have a great bundle of family tickets for you to win to enjoy this summer at Marwell Zoo, Paultons Park, Beaulieu and The Watercress Line.

To enter this fabulous competition, go to our website; www.familiesonline. co.uk/local/south-west-hampshire/competitions Entries must be received by Friday 30th June. T&c’s apply and are on the website.

Here is a glimpse of what you can enjoy this summer

Paultons Park Summer Beach Party Show

Mid-Hants Marwell Zoo Watercress Line May Half Term

New for Summer 2017, Paultons Park is hosting its very own Summer Beach Party Show, running every day from Friday 26th May. Experience plenty of singing, dancing and exciting games with the brand new characters: Bruce the Lifeguard, Shelly the Turtle and Manta the Ray. These will appear alongside our entertainments crew and our brand new beach buggy!

War on the Line – 10 - 11 June

Paw Patrol are also making an appearance. Come and see Police Pup Chase, Fearless Sky and Fire Dog Marshall on the 24th and 25th June! No job is too big and no pup is too small for Paw Patrol. As they take a break from Adventure Bay to visit Paultons Park.

Each station shows you a difference facet of life in wartime Britain. Help run the recreated Plotting Room to direct our battle of Britain pilots, dance alongside GIs and have your hair styled for the 40s.

Sammy and Ray is the brand new 4D Film for 2017. ‘Sammy and Ray’ tells the tale of a newly hatched Turtle named Sammy and his best friend Ray as they cruise the ocean. Be prepared to hold on to your seat and experience a unique encounter. paultonspark.co.uk May/June 2017

Transport yourself back in time to the 1940’s against the backdrop of a WWII railway to experience the ‘Blitz Spirit’. Enjoy unlimited train travel and mingle with civilian and military re-enactors. Hop off at each of our period stations to experience music, dancing, vintage vehicles and stalls selling retro wares.

War on the Line is as much about reliving this period as about enjoying the rush of the steam engine. watercressline.co.uk

Embark on the “Explorers Trail” and collect a very special souvenir explorer’s sticker to take home. Delve into a wild journey collecting stamps of your favourite exotic and endangered animals, from big cats to giraffes, Egyptian tortoises to Siamang gibbons. Plus, look out for their playful Amur tiger and Amur leopard cubs, as well as an adorable pygmy hippo calf called Norbert. With 140 acres of beautiful parkland to explore, play parks, a tractor train and an indoor picnic area, there’s plenty to occupy your little ones. Enjoy a range of daily animal talks and feeds including curious coatis, marvellous meerkats and our fabulous Humboldt penguins. Experience the African wilderness first hand at Marwell’s biggest ever exhibit, Wild Explorers! Plus, there’s a themed play area for little legs to run wild and practice their ranger skills.

Beaulieu Become a Time Traveller at Beaulieu 27 May - 4 June Join living history monks in the 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and travel through time to the newly restored, working Victorian kitchen at Palace House, where you can also dress up in Victorian costumes and play traditional games. Take a journey from the dawn of motoring to more futuristic travel with a Wheels pod ride in the National Motor Museum. For Spring Bank Holiday Monday you can enjoy The 999 Show as it celebrates the work of the emergency services. Take a step back in time with a display of iconic historic emergency services vehicles, play CSI Beaulieu murder mystery, watch demonstrations including a VIP kidnap and extrication display, then see horses in the New Forest Agisters’ pound and dog skill demonstrations. beaulieu.co.uk

marwell.org.uk Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

All Stars Cricket is a brand new initiative from the England and Wales Cricket Board aimed at providing children aged five to eight with a great first experience in cricket. The 8 week programme is being delivered across Hampshire by over 50 fully accredited All Stars Cricket centres.

Find your nearest centre and register your child at the link below.

Families Hampshire West