Families Herts Nov-Dec 2011

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Issue No. 41 Nov/Dec 2011

Ho! Ho! Ho! It's Christmas Brilliant competitions Where to see Santa Pantos Christmas fairs Firework displays

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The Herts magazine with the information young families want

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From your Editor…

In this issue:

Hello and welcome to the Christmas issue.

Although I’ve been thinking about Christmas since early September I can’t believe that it’s just around the corner! We are continuously being told we are living in straightened times and, as a result, we are all trying to make less money go further. Our Christmas feature gives tips about how to be frugal and still be festive – it really is possible!

Our ‘What’s On’ listing is crammed with lots of seasonal attractions, events and places to go that will take your family right through from Firework night and into the New Year.

At this time of year, when night-time begins in the late afternoon I get the urge to hunker down and hibernate. The nightly ritual of walking around the house closing curtains and turning on lamps and feeling cosy indoors is something of a guilty pleasure! And, whilst I’m in confession mode, I also feel the need to do things that involve needles, wool and strange hieroglyphs such as ‘k2, (yo, k2tog) 3 times, yo, k4’. Have a great Christmas – I’m off to the yarn shop!

News & Views: 3-5 Competitions: 6-7 Family Matters 8 Education 9 Christmas 10-11 Enjoy a festive but frugal Christmas.

5 Stocking Fillers

back in January, Shelley Where are we? Baldock, Bishops Stortford, Borehamwood, Chorleywood, Harpenden, Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, Hitchin, Kings Langley, Knebworth, Letchworth, Radlett, St Albans, Stevenage, Ware, Welwyn GC. Pick it up from cafes, playgroups, nurseries, schools, activity groups, selected shops, surgeries, leisure centres and libraries. Get in touch to request copies for your venue.

Coping with Divorce & Seperation

What’s On: 12-15

Don’t miss a copy. Families Herts by post for just £9.30 for 6 issues (1 year) or £18 for 12 issues (2 years). Call or email for a subscription form.

Christmas & Seasonal Next Issue: Nurseries Jan/Feb copy deadline: 5th December

Families Herts, PO Box 434, Pinner, HA5 9AH Tel/Fax: 020 8428 6384 editor@familiesherts.co.uk www.familiesherts.co.uk

News & Views Get fit for maths Getting your child (or mathlete) to do their times tables could soon be a whole lot easier, thanks to a new activity club called NumberFit. NumberFit sessions feature an innovative blend of maths, team games and sport, combining academic and physical exercises in line with the national curriculum and are suitable for all children.

It has been designed to stimulate children’s minds and bodies, and is based on the proven link between physical exercise and academic performance in children.

The aim is to make mathematics fun and allows the mathletes to associate the positive feelings they have for the team games with mathematics. This, combined with practice and repetition, leads to improved attainment, which in turn feeds their confidence. The result is the development of an essential skill

Junior ISAs launch

set for mathletes living in an increasingly technical world, as well as keeping them active and healthy.

It’s “like a keep-fit class meets a maths lesson meets a school sports day,” as one parent puts it.

NumberFit is available for children aged 3 to 11, with groups for pre-school and Key Stages 1 and 2. Classes in Berks, Bucks and Herts.

For more information or a school visit www.numberfit.com or call 0208 123 3996.

Say you saw it in

From November parents and grandparents will be able to deposit up to £3,600 a year for their children in new Junior ISAs. The ISAs replace Child Trust Funds which were withdrawn as part of the government's austerity measures. Junior ISAs are intended to provide youngsters with a nest-egg towards university costs, or a car or flat deposit, when they reach 18 they're not allowed to delve into the funds until then.

For more information see www.taxfreejuniorisa.co.uk

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News & Views Time is Ticking at St Albans Tick Tock Families Herts is delighted to congratulate Abi at Tick Tock Music on the occasion of her marriage in May to Mr Andrew Giles.

Now the new Mrs Giles has turned her attentions to all things musical. Having left

her role of Manager at Re:Play after school club she is now focussing on her own business, Tick Tock Music. Tick Tock is expanding and has now launched classes in Welwyn Garden City. Abi has also added a class on Wednesday afternoons for children who are at pre-school in the mornings. Abi said, “after 5 fun filled years we could not bear to say goodbye to those children we have known since they were 6 months old, so we have added the afternoon class”.

Tick Tock also provide fun and exciting childrens’ birthday parties that are tailor made for the birthday child. Abi will include all of their favourite songs and much more.

For more information about Tick Tock Musc classes and parties visit www.ticktockmusic.co.uk or email abiticktock@yahoo.co.uk or call 07933 153054.

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We’re going on a Bear Hunt... New Wildchild Pre-school Parties.

Wildchild Bear and Dinosaur Parties are really rather special and a world away from indoors! Designed specifically to capture the imaginations of pre-school children, these parties offer younger children the opportunity to experience different seasons, nature and the outdoors.

Pre-schoolers and parents, wellie clad when appropriate, head off into the woods where, along the way they will be making amazing and exciting discoveries of teddies or dinosaur

For more information visit www.wildchildactivities.com or call 0845 3717099.

Childrens’ Centres

You Shop, They Give!

Parents and communities are to be given the freedom to run their local children’s centre.

On the table are proposals that will enable parents and community groups to apply to their local authority to run a children’s centre in their local area.

Children’s Minister Sarah Teather said: “Children’s centres are at the heart of community life. New proposals to enable parents and communities to help run children’s centres will give local people more control and influence over the services they use on a daily basis."

As part of an overall drive to help children’s centres achieve even better results, Hertfordshire County Council is one of several that have been chosen to trial a ‘payment by results’ scheme. Frances Button, Executive Member for Education and Skills, said: “The aim of this scheme is to identify how to achieve a clearer focus on reaching the most disadvantaged families. This would be in addition to the excellent opportunities which our children’s centres offer for all members of the community."

The TheGivingMachine is a not-for-profit company set up by four Herts Dads that aims to raise £1m a year for UK schools and Charities. The scheme works in partnership with online retailers including household names such as Ebay, Amazon, Tesco and John Lewis and allows online shoppers to support their child’s school or a UK charity without having to spend a penny.

TheGivingMachine gets commission from businesses by referring sales to them and then passes this commission on to the schools and charities chosen by its members.

Over £270,000 has been raised so far for 2,500 UK schools and charities. The scheme’s biggest monthly payout to date is £20,000 which went to a Hertfordshire school.

This November sees the launch of their Christmas GiveAway Raffle.

Every week for 6 weeks members can nominate their friends and family to win amazing prizes from iPads to widescreen TV’s, weekends away to children’s bikes.

eggs . After playing some specially themed party games, there’s an opportunity to enjoy tea and cake before the birthday girl or boy says goodbye to their tired but happy friends.

To find out more go to www.thegivingmachine.co.uk

To find your nearest Childrens’ Centre go to www.hertsdirect.org

For inclusion in News & Views pages please ring 020 8428 6384 or email editor@familiesherts.co.uk

Santa’s Delight Local author and Montessori teacher, Marisa Laycock, based in St Albans, has recently published a festive story for children.

Called ‘Santa’s Delight’ the book is a heartwarming and festive tale about the people who’s jobs may take them away from their families at this special time of year; people such as fire fighters, police officers, rescue

Darren’s Buggy Dash Success

picture you Image courtesy of ‘me 405798) (David Har tnup, 07710

photography’

Back in our July/August issue we printed an article about St Albans & District Bereavement Network (SABN) and the free counselling services that they provide.

Kirsty Hall, who generously shared her story with Families Herts readers describing how

Hertfordshire’s very own Time Team!

The Norton Community Archaeology Group (NCAG) based in Letchworth Garden City was set up 5 years ago by volunteers who wanted to learn more about the distant past of their village and how it has developed over time.

NCAG welcomes families, schools and individuals whatever their experience and age. The group offers participants a rare opportunity to get “hands-on” with their own history and to make many exciting discoveries.

This summer over 50 local residents got down and dirty at the NCAG annual Summer Dig. The dig was based at a local ‘henge’ and their hard work was rewarded when they found that they were digging a site that has proved to be of national importance. The finds so far seem to confirm it as one of the earliest henges in the country with a possible date of about 3000 BC – that’s old, very old!

For more details go to www.nortoncommarch.com or email philthomas-ncag@hotmail.co.uk.

workers and service personnel. The result is a moving tale that will delight and educate children. This story encourages children to enjoy the abundance of Christmas, but also to remember those who protect and care for them. Her message communicates the universal values of generosity, kindness and compassion that will resonate across a wide audience. Santa’s Delight is the perfect bedtime story for parents and children to read together at Christmas time.

Santa’s Delight (published by Matador 2009, RRP £5.99) is available from Amazon www.amazon.com and can be ordered from book retailers.

she was supported by SABN when she lost her husband, Darren, without warning when she was 9 weeks pregnant with their first child, recently organised an event in memory of her husband to raise much needed funds for SABN. Darren’s Buggy Dash proved to be a huge success. People from all over St Albans took part – pushing buggies containing babies, dolls, turtles, teddies and more besides. Not to be outdone children brought along their toy buggies so that they could take part too.

Organised with The Cathedral Ecumenical Chaplaincy, SABN will be holding their annual Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving on Sunday 20th November at St Albans Cathedral at 3pm. There will be a dove release at 2.30pm at the West Door. This service is also suitable for bereaved children.

The funds raised by Darren’s Buggy Dash have already reached £2000. To donate go to www.justgiving.com/Darrensbuggydash To find out more go to www.sabn.org.uk or call the helpline: 01727 841841

Newlife Foundation Newlife Foundation offers information and practical support on a wide range of children’s disability issues through its helpline which is staffed by experienced nurses. The charity also provides grants for specialist equipment such as wheelchairs, beds, walking frames, seating, safety equipment and communication aids.

The helpline (0800 902 0095) is open Mondays to Fridays 9.30am to 5pm, extended to 7pm on Wednesdays. There is also an online chat service available during the same hours at www.newlifecharity.co.uk.

For parents coping with terminal conditions, Newlife’s new Just Can’t Wait service can help to make the last months of children’s lives more comfortable and potentially enables them to stay at home longer by providing specialist equipment quickly and free of charge. Healthcare professionals and parents can contact Newlife’s free Just Can’t Wait service by calling 0800 902 0095 or emailing nurse@newlifecharity.co.uk.

For more details go to www.newlifecharity. co.uk or call the helpline on 0800 902 0095.

Say you saw it in

Outstanding Montessori in Harpenden

www.artisans.uk.com 07787 535135 or 07795 510130 “A beautiful place for my child to start his education” a current parent

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Competitions WIN a ‘Zap’n’Ride’ Experience for Two at Rye House Kart Raceway plus 20% discount for Families Herts readers!

Rye House Kart Raceway is offering one lucky Families Herts reader the chance to experience this great prize!

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Situated in Hoddesdon this one-stop pleasure venue and kart racing race circuit is where Formula One star Lewis Hamilton got started as a youngster and is a great alternative to the traditional kid’s party. Alongside the main kart track, which is suitable for children/ teenagers from 8 to16 years and adults, is the dedicated Junior Circuit for children aged 5 to 11 years. It is available for 30 minute or 60 minute sessions and unlimited group sizes.

For those who want even more thrills or for visitors that do not fancy go-karting check out the on-site indoor Rye House Laser Combat.

This attraction provides 30 minutes of entertainment for kids, mums and dads. After the games enjoy a meal in the racing themed restaurant to round off the fun!

Enter at www.familiesherts.co.uk for a chance to win. Closing date: 30th November To claim your 20% discount off your visit to Rye House Kart Raceway. call 01992 460 895 ext 2 and quote ‘Families Herts Magazine’ when booking.

This offer cannot be used in combination with any other offers For more information: www.rye-house.co.uk

WIN a Copy of ‘Annabel’s Kitchen’ DVD and Recipe Book Award-winning children’s food expert Annabel Karmel has teamed up with CiTV to bring nine episodes from her kids cookery show to DVD for the first time.

In her magical loft kitchen, Annabel is assisted by the calamityprone fish-mad penguin, Jimmy, and the confident and organised, Pearl.

Annabel guides children and parents on a culinary journey of humorous and lighthearted food exploration; whipping up food like the easiest banana ice cream ever, home made junk food and making a watermelon into a pig!

Children will love watching and learning as Annabel does what she loves best – inspiring children to have fun in the kitchen, make their favourite meals and try something new.

Running time: 100 Minutes. DVD RRP: £12.99 Cert: U. For more information go to www.annabelkarmel.com To enter this competition to win one of four sets of ‘Annabel’s Kitchen’ DVD and Recipe Book go to www.familiesherts.co.uk.

Closing date: 16th December

WIN One Annual Membership or a Family Day Pass* to Gambado in Stevenage!

Gambado, the UK’s premier indoor play and party centres for children has come to Stevenage.

The expanding children’s entertainment centre operator has announced the acquisition of the centre previously operated by Monkey Bizness.

Gambado Managing Director, Ian Westwater said: “This is an exciting time for our company and we are delighted to be in a position to take on new sites and bring the unique Gambado experience to Stevenage.”

Gambado offer a unique indoor soft play experience for children under the age of 12 years along with the best birthday parties in town.

To celebrate the opening Gambado are giving away *1 annual membership for 1 child and 2 named adults and *2 runners up prizes of a family day pass for 5 people.

Come on down and meet Gambado the Tiger and the whole team!

For more information and to find out what’s coming soon visit www.gambado.com.

Go to www.familiesherts.co.uk for your chance win.

Closing date: 30th November

WIN! W IN! WIN !

Win a Digital Camera or a Changing Bag! a physical barrier to help protect against the external irritants which can cause nappy rash and helps seal in the skin’s natural moisture keeping baby’s skin soft. Because it is free from fragrance and lanolin it is gentle enough to use at every nappy change.

Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment is available from Boots, leading pharmacies and at

www.boots.com. RRP £2.99 for 40g and £5.49 for 80g. Always read the label.

Visit: www.metanium.co.uk to join the Metanium Baby & Toddler Club for more information about the treatment and prevention of nappy rash.

Enter at www.familiesherts.co.uk for a chance win. Closing date: 16th December

Metanium Nappy Rash Ointment (formulated to treat nappy rash) has now been joined by new Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment for daily application to help prevent nappy rash.

So whether it’s treatment or prevention of nappy rash, Metanium has an answer.

To celebrate the launch Metanium are offering these fabulous competition prizes: 1 digital camera each for two first prize winners, so you can capture every magical moment of your baby’s development or, for 3 lucky runners up, a specially designed Metanium Changing Bag. Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment has a unique double action formula to help guard against nappy rash. It forms

Say you saw it in

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Family Matters

Coping with Divorce and Separation A stable and long lasting marriage may be the ideal that we hope for but, unfortunately, the harsh fact of life is that some marriages will end with separation and divorce. It is the effect of such a change on the children of the family that is of vital importance. Whatever can be done should be done to protect children from the fall out of a broken a relationship. Here, Amanda Melton, of solicitors Matthew Arnold & Baldwin gives some helpful advice on how to deal with some concerns that may arise.

Some helpful websites include: Her tssunflower.org.uk Her tschildrenscentres.org.uk reunite.org womensaid.org fco.gov.uk For further information contact Ama nda Melton at Matthew Arnold & Baldwin LLP on 01923 202020 or email amanda.melton@mablaw.com www.mablaw.com

Your Childrens’ Security If you are considering divorce or separation it is important to consider the impact this will have upon the children of your relationship.

What practical steps can you take to protect your children in these circumstances and when should those steps be taken?

Is there a risk of abduction?

A separation often invokes a variety of emotions. Abduction is a real fear in only a minority of cases. It is better to try and prevent this rather than try and solve the problem after the event. What are the higher risk areas? If your partner is a foreign national or your children have dual nationality or your partner has family or property overseas there is a possible risk that the children may be taken overseas during contact. What can you do?

1. Ensure you know where the children’s passports are at all times and check with the Passport Office or the Embassy to see whether the children could travel by any other means 2. If there is a threat made then obtain a prohibited steps order from the court preventing the other parent from taking the children out of the jurisdiction without the court’s permission Is there a risk of the children being affected by domestic violence?

If your relationship with the other parent has broken down as a result of violence

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towards you it is imperative the children do not witness this. Your partner’s emotions may be running high – if he/she is exhibiting unusual behaviour or making threats to harm either himself or the children you need to take urgent steps to protect them.

1. Make sure that someone else is able to deal with the handover of the children – preferably a family member who is respected by your partner. If your family/friends are too involved try to deal with the handover of the children in a public place

2. If there has been violence obtain a non molestation order and/or an occupation order from the courts. This will prevent further violence or threats of violence and can also prevent your partner from returning to the home 3. If your partner’s behaviour is erratic and you are concerned about his/her state of mind or what he/she may do when the children are with him you should insist upon him seeing the children whilst supervised either by a trusted family member or within the confines of a contact centre even if only on a temporary basis

Education

Say you saw it in

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Christmas

Festive and Frugal

By Susan Lightfoot

We love Christmas in our house but this year we’re more determined then ever not to blow our budget and to make sure that it’s about happy times and not mostly about shopping and eating.

We’ve put together a few tips to help make your Christmas frugal and festive whilst keeping it full of meaning and Christmas cheer.

Creative presents

Festive savings

We’re not suggesting that you give Granny a junk robot – but if you pick the right craft or idea to suit your talent, a thoughtful present can outshine any new gift.

• Earn money shopping at Christmas using cashback facilities on credit cards, or shop online at specialist cash back sites such as www.cashbackshopper.co.uk.

• Check the discount voucher sites online – there are some great discounts and you may even get new ideas for presents.

• If you are hosting a family celebration and your budget is really stretched, ask everyone to make a contribution. You don’t have to request cash but why not ask people to bring a dish such as Christmas pudding, mince pies, cheeseboard, chocolates or something home cooked. It’ll save you work as well as money.

• With supermarkets open most of the festive period don’t over buy or over spend on food.

With careful planning you can just buy what you need, then top up as you go.

• Everyone understands when money is tight and if you feel uncomfortable about accepting gifts that cost more than you’ve spent then ask the whole family to set a ceiling on the amount everyone spends to help avoid embarrassment.

• If skimping at Christmas is out of the question then plan, plan and plan. Buy early spreading the cost and don’t buy anything you don’t need.

• Frame your child’s picture – the right frame can do justice to any work of art, however abstract.

• Make a family photo calendar. There are companies that can do this for you, but if you are a dab hand on the computer, you may even be able to do it yourself.

• Decorate a piece of pottery. There are plenty of local pottery cafes where you can go and paint a ready made piece of pottery.

It doubles as an afternoon’s entertainment as well as presents.

• Homemade chocolate truffles, jams or chutneys always go down a treat and this year we are going to make lemon curd too.

• You could also try customised bed linen or cushions.

• Give up presents and donate a small amount to charity.

With children, this can be difficult so you could try buying from charity sites or shops – many sell products which aren’t second hand.

www.houseoffraser.co.uk

It all in the timing Children value the time we spend together far more than presents.

• Find a game that all the family can play together this can also ensure they are not on their electronic games all day.

• Take all toys out of their boxes before wrapping them, remove all the plastic wrapping and ties and put them back in their boxes with batteries installed. It saves scrabbling around for Philips screwdrivers on Christmas Day morning.

• Don’t give all the children’s presents on Christmas Day – give them over the whole period between Christmas and New Year. This saves on present overload for little kids and brings a sense of excitement and anticipation every day. You could try hiding a few presents and doing a treasure hunt each day.

• Make sure the kids get some decent periods of time to play with and enjoy their presents.

There’s nothing more frustrating than having to go off to another relative’s house when you really want to make a Lego model.

Being frugal with food • Plan your meals, make sure you estimate your quantities as precisely as you can and only buy what you need. It’s all too easy to go to the supermarket with an open-ended list so include the amounts you need against each item and stick to it.

• Buy quality in a few things such as a British, organic and well- reared turkey and use it all.

Try the things our mums used to make; turkey sandwiches, casserole, stock and curry!

• There is no doubt that home-baked mince pies and yule log taste better than shopbought ones – but the ingredients can be costly and baking can be time consuming (and sometimes disastrous) so focus on cooking a few special items and don’t worry about buying everything else in.

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What readers say: a “We always try to go to . church service for children t We’re not big on relig ion bu iday Christmas is a relig ious hol to so it’s important for children we understand the real reason celebrate.”

“We have a screen ban on Christmas day so it’s all about the time spent together.”

5 Stocking Fillers 1. Paper Planes

4. Bend n’ Build Sticks

Make 10 different paper planes. Includes 40 sheets of patterned paper, stickers and guide.

Price: £4.99.

Age: 7+ years www.galttoys.com

Make fun models with these reusable sticks. Bend n’ Build Sticks are made from clear wax over coloured string and stick together with no glue required. They hold their shape but may be reshaped and reused.

Price: £4.99. Age: 5+ years www.galttoys.com

2. Door Hangers These double sided door hangers are perfect for the dancing princess, talented footballer or messy little man in your life. Price: £1 www.greenboardgames.com

Choose to answer an easy, medium or hard question and earn brain cells. The first player to fill their brain card is the winner. A great game for the whole family.

Price: £8 www.greenboardgames.com

“A very long walk on boxing day (along with new bikes, skateboards or roller skates).”

“A difficult jigsaw usually keeps everyone in our house happy.”

“Our stree t has a Christm as carol sing-along comple te with mulled wine and mince pie s.”

5. BrainBites

3. Glow ‘n’ Speak Animal Flashlight Squeeze their handle to wake them up. Their mouths open and the torch light switches on.

Each animal has their own sound. Great for sleepover fun! Price: £7.99 Age: 18 months plus. www.littletikes.co.uk

For more tips and articles about Christmas visit www.familiesherts.co.uk from where you can gain access to the whole of the brilliant Familiesonline website.

Say you saw it in

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What's On: Christmas & Seasonal Firework Displays ABBOTS LANGLEY FIREWORK DISPLAY Manor House Playing Fields.

01923 265139 www.abbotslangley-pc.gov.uk 4 Nov - Grounds open 6.30 fireworks at 7.30pm BUTTERFLY WORLD Miriam Lane, Off Nuke Lane, Chiswell Green, Herts, AL2 3NY 01727 869 203 info@butterflyworldproject.com Fireworks Display 6 Nov – 5-7pm Fireworks at 6.30pm. BBQ, hog roast, soup, drinks, ice creams.

Face painting for £3.50. Tickets: £5 CHESHUNT FIREWORK DISPLAY Cheshunt Park, Park Lane, Cheshunt, EN7 6QD 01992 785574/ Box Office 01992 441946 leisure@broxbourne.gov.uk 6 Nov – Gate: 4.30pm, fireworks from 6.45pm Tickets: Advance £4/ £14 for 4; at the gates £6/ £20 for 4 Under 2s free.

GULLIVER’S Livingstone Drive, Milton Keynes, MK15 0DT 01908 609001 www.gulliversfun.co.uk Santa’s Northern Lights Firework Display 23 Dec Magical Fireworks set to Christmas music.

Check website for further details.

Theatre THE ALBAN ARENA Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Peppa Pig's Treasure Hunt 2 Nov – 1pm & 4pm, 3 Nov – 10am & 1pm Peppa Pig goes on a treasure hunt. With puppets, sing-along songs and a brand new story. www.peppapiglive.com Tickets: £14.50, £12.50 concs, u16s: £2 off Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 9 Dec – 1 Jan This Christmas, don’t miss our magical, funpacked, family pantomime.

Tickets: £13.50 - £21

CRABTREE FIREWORKS SPECTAULAR Crabtree Lane, Harpenden 01582 462958 5 Nov – Gates: 5:30pm Display Starts: 6:30pm

BARN THEATRE Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6ST 01707 324300 www.barntheatre.co.uk Cinderella 17-20, 22-24, 27-31 Dec Contact theatre for times.

Tickets: £10

THE ROYAL GUNPOWDER MILLS Beaulieu Drive, Waltham Abbey Essex EN9 1JY 01992 707370 www.royalgunpowdermills.com Guy Fawkes Experience 5-6 Nov – from 2pm A weekend of familiy activities themed around the Gunpowder Plot. Plus, firework display

BROXBOURNE CIVIC HALL High Street, Hoddesden, EN11 8BE 01992 441946 www.broxbourne.gov.uk Sleeping Beauty 9-31 Dec Starring X Factor finalists ‘Same Difference’.

Contact for times and prices.

ST ALBANS FIREWORK DISPLAY TIC@stalbans.gov.uk Box Office: 01727 844488, 01727 864511 5 Nov - Gates open 6pm; display 7.30.

Display in Verulamium Park organised by St Albans Cathedral in aid of local charities.

GORDON CRAIG THEATRE Stevenage Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, Herts SG1 1LZ 08700 131030 Beauty and the Beast 26 Nov – 22 Jan – various times There's a baddie wanting boos, goodies with outrageous gags, a heroine in a tragic situation...but what has happened to the handsome prince?

Contact venue for times and prices.

WATFORD FIREWORK DISPLAY Cassiobury Park Cassiobury Park Avenue, Watford WD18 7HU 01923 226400 5 Nov – 6pm-8.15pm 6.15 Children’s Fireworks 7pm Bonfire 7.30pm Fireworks Entertainers on stage between fireworks displays.

FIREWORK DISPLAY Mansion House, Shuttleworth, Old Warden Park, Biggleswade 01767 626262 www.keech.org.uk 5 Nov - Gates open at 7pm In support of Keech Hospice Care Cost in advance: Adult £5, child £3, family £12.50 (2 adults, 2 children) On the door: Adult £6, child £3.50, family £15.00 (2 adults, 2 children)

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HARPENDEN PUBLIC HALLS Southdown Road, Harpenden, AL5 1PD, 01582 767525 Stick Man 5 Nov – 1.30pm The world is a dangerous place for Stick Man. After ending up on a fire, will he get back to the family tree? Ages: 4+ Tickets: Adults £8, Children £6 HAWTHORNE THEATRE Campus West, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX 01707 357117 www.welhat.gov.uk/campuswest Aladdin 8 Dec – 1 Jan Contact for times and prices.

HERTFORD THEATRE The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992 531500 www.eastherts.gov.uk Wake Up, Don Quixote 4 Nov - 10am, 1pm 5 Nov - 11am, 3pm A look into the world of dreams with comedy and magic, giant puppets, dance, music and film.

Tickets: £7, £5 concs Annie 10 Nov – 7.30pm; 11 Nov - 7.30pm; 12 Nov - 2.30pm, 7.30pm Annie runs away from the orphanage and finds an easier life where tomorrow is always brighter.

Tickets: £13, £11 concs LETCHWORTH ARTS CENTRE 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, Herts SG6 3EW 01462 670788 The Snow Queen 19-22 Dec – 3pm & 7pm Join Gerda on her adventure to the icy palace of the Snow Queen.

Tickets: £8, £6 concs THE MARKET THEATRE Sun Street, Hitchin, SG5 1AE. 01462 433553 www.markettheatre.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk 3 Dec-7 Jan Aimed at 3-8 year olds, this show will also be enjoyed by children of all ages!

Tickets: £8 THE OLD TOWN HALL THEATRE High Street, Hemel Hempstead HP1 3AE 01442 228091 www.oldtownhall.co.uk The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark 19 Nov – 1pm & 3.30pm Plop was exactly the same as every other barn owl - except for one thing - he was afraid of the dark.

Ages 3+ Tickets: £6.25, £4.25 concs Aladdin 3 Dec – 1pm & 3.30pm This colourful tale is set in a mysterious eastern kingdom. For ages 4+ Tickets: £6.25, £4.25 concs The Velveteen Rabbit 8, 9 Dec – 5pm; 10 Dec – 11am & 2.30pm Hear the enchanting story of how one boy's favourite toy was loved so much that he became real.

Ages 4+ Tickets: £6.25, £4.25 concs PLINSTON Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 3NX www.plinston.com Sleeping Beauty 27 Dec-1 Jan – times vary Tickets: £9.50, £8.50 concs

Places To Go

QUEEN MOTHER THEATRE Woodside Car Park, off Walsworth Road, Hitchin.

01462 455166. www.queenmothertheatre.org.uk The Boy Who Stole Christmas Day 15-18 Dec – various times Why is life for young Nathaniel so miserable?

It takes a powerful magician to work out what’s wrong.

Tickets: £10, £8 concs

THE WESTON AUDITORIUM De Havilland Campus, Univ. of Hertfordshire Hatfield, AL10 9AB 01707 281127 www.herts.ac.uk/uharts The Snowman/Father Christmas (U) 18 Dec – 10.15am A screening of Raymond Briggs’ ever popular The Snowman and Father Christmas. Childrens illustration workshop before the film.

Admission: £5.50 (including film)

THE RADLETT CENTRE 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 8HL 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Hansel and Gretel 5 Nov – 2pm Tickets: £9.50 Sleeping Beauty 10 Dec-1 Jan Contact venue for times and prices.

WYLLYOTTS CENTRE Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HN 01707 645005 www.wyllyottscentre.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk 10 Dec-1 Jan Join Jack as he bounds up the beanstalk to do battle with Giant Blunderbore.

Contact venue for prices and times.

HEARTWOOD FOREST Sandridge. AL3 6JE www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/heartwood Tree Planting 20 Nov Help us get tree planting season off to a tree-iffic start! With Welly Wanging fun too.

4 Dec Santa Claus is coming to town - and he'll be planting trees at Heartwood!

RHODES ARTS COMPLEX South Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3JG 01279 651746 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood 9 Dec -2 Jan Tickets: £14.95, £11.95 concs, £46 Family ticket

Camps & Courses

HERTFORD MUSEUM 18 Bull Plain, Hertford, Herts, SG14 1DT 01992 582686 www.hertfordmuseum.org Toddler Tuesdays at Hertford Museum 15 Nov – 10.30am-12pm Ice Age Creatures 13 Dec – 10.30am-12pm Christmas is coming Craft activities, play with toys and share a story! Ages: 2-4. £1.50 – including refreshments. Book in advance.

Christmas Model Railway Day 3 Dec – 10.30 am-3.30 pm A festive model railway extravaganza! Drop-in.

Free but donations are welcome.

Victorian Christmas crafts workshop 10 Dec – 11am-12.30pm Make a selection of Victorian trinkets including a festive theatre scene. Age 8+.

Advance booking essential.

Cost: £3.50 per child.

Christmas Table Crafts 20, 21 Dec – 10.30am-3.30pm Make decorations for your Christmas dinner table. Last entry 3pm. Drop in.

Cost: £1.50 per child.

THE SANDPIT THEATRE - SANDRINGHAM SCHOOL The Ridgeway, St. Albans, AL4 9NX. 01727 370067 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk Disney’s Camp Rock 8-10 Dec – 7.30pm 10 Dec – 2.30pm Summer at camp was supposed to be about the music, but the new, flashy Camp Star threatens Camp Rock’s very existence.

Tickets: £12, £10 concs TRESTLE ARTS BASE Russet Drive, St Albans AL4 0JQ 01727 850950 www.trestle.org.uk Wake Up, Don Quixote 1 Nov – 1pm; 2 Nov – 10am, 1pm A look into the world of dreams with comedy and magic, giant puppets, dance, music and film.

Tickets: £8 Adults, £6 Concs, £25 Family (Max 2 adults) WATFORD PALACE THEATRE 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 225671 01923 235455 www.watfordtheatre.co.uk Jack and the Beanstalk 25 Nov-31 Dec Join Jack, Dame Trott and Buttercup the cow.

Packed with laughter and a never-ending beanstalk.

Check with venue for times and prices.

CAMP GOSLING Gosling Sports Park, Stanborough Road, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 331056 www.goslingsports.co.uk 19-30 Dec – 9am-3.30pm Multi activity sessions: Tennis, athletics, football, trampolining and more.

Junior Base Camp (4- 7 yrs), Base Camp (8-9 yrs), Sports Academy (10-15 yrs).

Early drop off and late pick up facility: 8am - 6pm at extra cost.

Daily: Members £23.50, Non Members £28.50 HATFIELD SWIM CENTRE Lemsford Road, Hatfield, Herts, AL10 0EB Tel: 01707 276276 Fun Sessions Sat and school holidays 1.30-3pm Energetic, fun sessions with inflatables and floats. £3.20.

Ages 8-15 PERFORM DRAMA COURSES Call 0845 400 1272 www.perform.org.uk Fleetville Junior School, 228, Hatfield Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 4LW Narnia 19-21 Dec - 10am-12pm Children will combine live original music, inspirational dance and quick witted improvisation into a colourful mini performance on the final day.

Age: 4-8 yrs.

Say you saw it in

DOLLS HOUSE AND MINIATURES FAIR Plinston, Broadway, Letchworth Garden City Herts, SG6 3NX Tel: 01462 672003 www.plinston.com 6 Nov – 10.30am-3.30pm The very best in dolls houses and miniatures. £2, £1.50 concs.

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM AT TRING The Walter Rothschild Building, Akeman Street, Tring, Herts, HP3 6AP. 020 7942 6171 www.nhm.ac.uk/tring Play with Clay 15 Nov – 10.15am & 2pm Create an animal from clay. 30 minute workshop. Age: under 5s. £1.50 Animals After School – Feather and Fur 24 Nov – 4-4.45pm Discover some incredible animals and make something to take home. Age 5+ £1.50 Handprint Reindeer 13 Dec – 10.15am & 2pm Messy play with paint. Aprons provided. £1.50

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What's On: Christmas & Seasonal Christmas Tree Robins 19, 20 Dec – 10.15am, 10.45am, 11.15am, 11.45am, 2pm, 2.30pm Make a pine cone robin tree decoration.

All ages. £1.50 Pick Up a Finger Puppet 21 Dec - 2 Jan (not 24-26 Dec) – 10am-5pm Make your own finger puppet. Drop-in.

All ages.

Free.

SPARKLING CHRISTMAS FASHION SHOW Riverside Shopping Centre, Hemel Hempstead 26 Nov – 10am-4pm, with shows 1pm & 3pm Models will be strutting their stuff down the catwalk to showcase winter fashion.

THE RADLETT CENTRE 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 8HL 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Charity Christmas Card Sale 11 Nov – 10am-3pm Stock up on Christmas cards and gifts while supporting some worthy charities.

ST ALBERT THE GREAT SCHOOL Acorn Road, Hemel Hempstead stalbertsptfa@live.co.uk Christmas Fayre 3 Dec – 1-4pm Husky rides, gift stalls, tombola's, raffles, design a Christmas card and more.

BROXBOURNE CIVIC HALL High Street, Hoddesden, EN11 8BE. 01992 441931 Christmas Fayre 27 Nov – 11am-3.30pm Visit Father Christmas in his grotto.

Adults: £1.50 Children and over 60s: 70p

ST SAVIOUR'S CHURCH 25 Sandpit Lane, St Albans, AL1 4DF. www.ssaviours.org Christmas tree Festival 15-24 Dec – open daily 10am-5pm except 15 Dec - 2-5pm; 18 Dec -12-5pm; 24 Dec -10am-2pm) See 90 Christmas trees that have been decorated by local groups from around St Albans. Plus, a local crafts stall.

Day time admission is free but donations are appreciated. Evening admission: £5 (children free) with entertainment.

Little Monsters 20 Nov – 2pm & 3.30pm Two concerts for children. Hear a full-scale symphony orchestra playing music from around the world. Meet the musicians and try out the instruments. Dress as your favourite monster!

Tickets: Adults £5, Children £1

COMBINED CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARD SALE Court House, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4.

For more details: janedrake2@btinternet.com 12, 26 Nov – 9.15am-3pm A wide of charity Christmas cards, wrapping paper and gifts to buy.

STANDALONE FARM Wilbury Road, Letchworth GC Herts, SG6 4JN 01462 686775 www.standalonefarm.com standalone@letchworth.com Christmas Craft Fair 12-13 Nov

HARPENDEN CIRCLE CHRISTMAS GIFT AND CRAFT FAIR Harpenden Public Halls, Southdown Road, Harpenden, AL5 1PL 01582 762880 25-26 Nov – 10am-4pm Run by the Harpenden Ladies Circle and featuring a wide range of crafts and gifts.

WELWYN ST MARY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL London Road, Welwyn, AL6 9DJ Christmas Fair 4 Dec – 2pm-4pm

Christmas Fairs BRITISH SCHOOLS MUSEUM 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, Herts SG4 9TS 01462 420144 www.hitchinbritishschools.org.uk Christmas Fair 3 Dec – 10am-3pm

HATFIELD HOUSE Hatfield, Herts AL9 5NQ 01707 287010 www.hatfield-house.co.uk For enquiries: 01707 262632 Christmas Market 12 Nov – 10.30am-4pm 50% of the proceeds will go to Isabel Hospice.

Entry: £2, children free.

KNEBWORTH HOUSE Knebworth Park, SG3 6PY 01438 812661 www.knebworthhouse.com Christmas Crafts and Country Gifts 19-20 Nov – 10am-5pm

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Carols CATHEDRAL & ABBEY CHURCH OF ST ALBAN Sumpter Yard, St Albans, Herts AB1 1BY 01727 890256 www.stalbanscathedral.org The Christingle Service 4 Dec – 3pm An event for younger children.

Family Carol Concert 10 Dec – 3pm Tickets available on entry.

Adults £5, Children £1 if seat needed.

HERTFORD CASTLE Hertford, SG14 1QD 01992 584322 www.hertford.gov.uk Carols at the Castle 17 Dec – 5-6pm Carol singing in the castle grounds.

ST LUKE'S CHURCH "The Church-on-the-Roundabout" 58 St. Albans Road East, Hatfield, Herts 01707 329744 10 Dec – 10.30am-1.30am Following the Star A Christmas journey for families at St. Luke's Church.

THE WESTON AUDITORIUM De Havilland Campus, Univ. of Hertfordshire Hatfield, AL10 9AB 01707 281127, www.herts.ac.uk/uharts Christmas Carol Concert 7 Dec – 1pm & 6.30pm Hatfield primary and secondary schools present a Christmas carol concert.

Where to see Santa CAPEL’S CHRISTMAS CAROUSEL Capel Manor Gardens, Bullsmoor Lane, Enfield, EN1 4RQ www.capelmanorgardens.co.uk 3-4 Dec – 10am-4pm Visit Santa’s grotto. Plus, carol singing, roast chestnuts, children’s entertainment, magic shows, face painting and tractor rides.

Normal admission fees apply, see website for details.

GULLIVER’S AT CHRISTMAS Livingstone Drive, Milton Keynes, MK15 0DT 01908 609001, www.gulliversfun.co.uk Santa’s Grotto 26 Nov – 24 Dec See the website for full details, times and prices.

LEIGHTON BUZZARD STEAM RAILWAY Pages Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 4TN 01525 373888 www.buzzrail.co.uk Santa Specials 3, 4, 7, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23 Dec – times vary Enjoy a 25 minute ride in a decorated steam train. Then walk through the Magic Tunnel to meet Santa, with a present for each child.

Tickets: Adult £7, Child (2 – 15) £7.50, Under 2’s £3 Mince Pie Specials 27-28 Dec – times vary A 25-minute ride in a festively decorated steam train plus hot punch and mince pies in the station buffet.

Tickets: Adults £6.50, Children (2-15) £3.50, Under 2s FREE. MEAD OPEN FARM Standbridge Road, Billington, Nr. Leighton Buzzard 01525 852954 www.meadopenfarm.co.uk SantaLand 26 Nov-23 Dec Meet Santa in his grotto and then ride the Lapland Express, walk through Winter Wonderland and follow the Reindeer Competition Trail.

SANTA TO YOUR DOOR Party entertainer, Adam Ant, will bring Christmas to life for your children. When Santa arrives he will chat to your children about their favourite things, eat a mince pie and deliver all those fabulous presents you’ve spent ages wrapping. And best of all he’ll visit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day or any day.

Call the Adam Ant party hotline on 0208 959 1045 for more details. adamantsparties.co.uk THE SNOW CENTRE St Albans Hill, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 9NH www.thesnowcentre.com Winter Wonderland with Santa’s Cabin End Nov - Christmas Eve Warm clothing essential - it will be very cold!

Call 0845 258 9000 for prices, full details and to book.

WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans.

0870 129 9718, www.willowsfarmvillage.com Santa’s Spectacular Grotto 23 Nov-24 Dec - 10am- 5.30pm Visit Santa in his Grotto and receive a golden key to his toy shop where children can choose a present. Join in with the Nativity show, hop on the Festive Wood Ride, enter the Elves House, see the reindeer. Don’t miss the Fun Fair rides, undercover JCB Young Drivers Zone, Woolly Jumpers indoor play barn and Reindeer Hunt with a prize for every child.

Ice Rinks & More HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND 0871 620 7064 www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com 18 Nov – 3 Jan 10am-10pm daily London’s largest Ice Rink, Giant Observation Wheel, Zippo’s Circus.

Free entry, purchase tokens for rides and attractions. Booking is recommended for the Ice Rink and the Wheel. Closed Christmas Day. NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICE RINK Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD 0844 847 1576, 020 7942 5000 www.nhmskating.com 4 Nov – 8 Jan – check website for session times The NHM will be transformed into a magical setting with 76,000 Christmas lights in the trees surrounding the Ice Rink.

Ticket: Adults £11.50/£13, Children (under 12) £8/£8.50, family £31/£34.50.

SOMERSET HOUSE Strand, London WC2 1LA www.somersethouse.org.uk Ticketmaster 0844 847 1520 22 Nov- 22 Jan TOWER OF LONDON ICE RINK www.toweroflondonicerink.com 0844 412 4636 19 Nov – 8 Jan Tickets: Adults £10.50/£12.50, Children (under 16) £8/£8.50, Family £32/£34 (Prices include skate rental and booking fee)

THE VAN HAGE REAL ICE RINK 10 Van Hage, Pepper Hill, Great Amwell, Nr Ware, SG12 9RP 01920 870811 www.skatevanhage.co.uk 16 Nov – 8 Jan Tickets: Adults £12.50/£9, Children £8.50/£7, Family £35/£29 WILLOWS FARM VILLAGE Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans 0870 129 9718 www.willowsfarmvillage.com Magical Ice Rink 23 Nov – 24 Dec Included with entry to Willows Farm during Santa’s Spectacular Grotto. Get your skates on to experience our synthetic ice rink for all the fun without the cold and wet.

Contact venue for prices.

Christmas Lights HARPENDEN CHRISTMAS CARNIVAL Harpenden Town Centre 01582 768278 27 Nov – 12-6pm Suitable for all the family; Acts on the stage, procession along the High Street, Farmers Market, Lights Switch on, charity stalls, Santa's Grotto, fairground rides and more.

Free with the exception of the stalls and fairground rides.

HARPENDEN Batford (Bottom of Pickford Hill).

4 Dec Southdown Shopping Area 2 Dec – from 6pm Live Music, Santa, fairground rides, Christmas Fair and more.

Free with the exception of the stalls and fairground rides.

HATFIELD Town Centre 27 Nov – 4-5.30pm Featuring Peppa Pig and George.

Welwyn Garden City Outside the Howard Centre 25 Nov – 4.30-6.30pm

Diary Dates NCT NEARLY NEW SALES Everything for children 0-5 years old including: clothing, equipment, toys, books, videos, maternity wear.

Hemel-Berkhampsted Branch Longdean School, Rumballs Road, Hemel Hempstead, HP3 8JB 12 Nov – 2-3pm (1.30 for members) £1 Luton Branch Ascot Rooms, Coop Club, Stockingstone Road, Luton, LU2 7NF 19 Nov – 11am-12.30pm Herts North Branch Kingshott School, Stevenage Road, Hitchin, SG4 7JX 12 Nov - 10.30 - 12noon Contact: nns@nct-hertsnorth.org.uk Dunstable Branch Watling Lower School, Bull Pond Lane, Dunstable, Beds, LU6 3BJ 26 Nov – 1.30-3.30pm £1 WEST HERTS BREASTFEEDING PEER SUPPORT NETWORK www.westhertsbreastfeedingpeersupport. com Running daily drop-ins for breastfeeding support across Dacorum, sponsored by the NCT and local Children's Centres.

Free.

CHILDCARE

HERTFORD CHRISTMAS GALA Town Centre 25 Nov – 4-7pm (lights at 5pm) Entertainment, Christmas street market and more.

MARLOWES SHOPPING CENTRE Hemel Hempstead, HP1 1DX 01442 413815 www.themarlowes.co.uk Christmas Lights Switch On 20 Nov – 3.30-5.30pm An entertaining programme including Ben and Holly from NickJr and Santa with his Elf who will be giving away chocolate coins. Plus a fireworks extravaganza.

PARTIES

ST ALBANS St Peter’s St., outside Town Hall 20 Nov – from 1pm (lights on at 5.30pm) Free.

Say you saw it in

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