IN THIS ISSUE
Swing into Spring Spring Time Fun Spring What's On Easter Eggstravaganzas
Win a Family Cinema Ticket
Issue 79 Mar/Apr 2018
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From your Editor… It’s spring again! A time to expect longer, dryer, warmer, sunnier days; all of which are likely to tempt us back outdoors. If you are looking for ideas of places to go and things to do as the weather warms-up, then check out our Spring Time Fun and Spring What’s On sections for plenty of inspiration. We also have a great competition to win a family cinema ticket to Hertford Theatre’s Easter film programme. The competition closes on 25th March so make sure you enter soon. If your kids love to get into the kitchen and do a bit of baking (you may not be so keen!) there’s a tasty recipe for cute little Easter Nest Cakes from the Beverley Glock Cooker School. We also have an interesting article by Dr Robert Titzer about the long-term benefits that can accrue when children learn language and maths skills at an early age. Enjoy the early spring and Easter break.
Shelley
In this issue: News & Views: 4 Education: 6 Spring Time Fun: 8 Competition: 8 Spring What’s On: 10 Next Issue: 80 - May/June Copy Deadline: 6th April Image credit: © sunemotion
Find us in: Baldock, 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. Email or call to request copies for your venue. 020 8428 6384 editor@familiesherts.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk
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News & Views Research Confirms New Dads Mental Health Concerns A new poll reveals almost 40% of men experience anxieties after having children. The research released by the Priory Group of Harley Street, London also claims to show that thousands of men experience anxiety – and in some cases depression - as they enter fatherhood. One in five men believed they were actually suffering from Paternal Post Natal Depression, although only 2% were officially diagnosed. This accords with earlier research by the parenting charity the NCT, which showed around 1 in 3 new fathers are concerned about their mental health. The increased pressures of fatherhood, more financial responsibility, changes in relationships and lifestyle, combined with a lack of sleep and an increased workload at home, may all affect a new dad’s mental wellbeing.
Concern about their partner is another worry for new fathers. The NCT found that almost three quarters (73%) of dads were worried about their partner’s mental health. For more information visit www.nct.org.uk/ dads-PND or www.priorygroup.com
Paradise Wildlife Park
Laws on Smacking Changing
73 Questions a Day! So What’s the Problem? British children aged 1 to 6 ask an average 73 questions every day ... half of which parents struggle to answer, according to a recent study conducted by One Poll. Children are at their most inquisitive at 4 years old and boys and girls tend to be just as curious as each other. Almost a third of parents in the study find this constant barrage of questions exhausting, lasting as it often does from the time children wake until they drop off to sleep at night. Almost half of the parents interviewed admit that they struggle to find an answer 50% of the time, turning to Google for help, whilst nearly one third confessed to making up answers on the spot. Fathers field the most questions but mothers still deal with an average of 413 per week. To help parents deal with some of their children’s more challenging questions, Tots Town at Argos has teamed up with child psychologist Dr. Sam Wass and created a series of videos which can be found on YouTube. 4
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New attraction at
New laws are coming into force in the UK relating to smacking children. Currently, it is legal for a parent or carer to smack their own child but only when it amounts to ‘reasonable punishment’, as laid down in the Children Act 2004. What is defined as ‘reasonable punishment’ is a grey area as it is not set out in the law and depends on each individual case. However, changes are planned in the Scottish and Welsh legal systems which will ban the smacking of children under any circumstances. This means England will be the only country in Britain where parents will still be able to legally smack their children. In England it will remain illegal for teachers, nursery staff or care workers to smack a child. Privately hired carers such as nannies and babysitters may smack, but only if permission has been given by the child’s parents. For more information visit www.childlawadvice.org.uk
This Easter visitors to Paradise Wildlife Park will be able to meet some life-size animatronic Dinosaurs at the incredible ‘World of Dinosaurs’ attraction. It will be one of the UK’s biggest and most spectacular animatronic dinosaur attractions, set in acres of natural woodland. It will feature thirty life-size, moving and roaring dinosaurs – a real thrill for any dinosaur adventurer! Paradise Wildlife Park is home to over 800 animals and is the only zoo in the UK to home five different big cat species. They also look after one of the largest collections of small monkeys in the UK as well as the largest Anaconda. Visitors to the park can choose from twenty different animal talks, feeds and shows daily. Book tickets online and use code TREX10 to get 10% off entry. See advert on page 2. Find out more at www.pwpark.com
Children’s Authors Top the Pops in Libraries The kids are taking over the libraries! Seven children’s authors - Julia Donaldson, Daisy Meadows, Roderick Hunt, Francesca Simon, Adam Blade, Jacqueline Wilson and Roald Dahl – are among the top 10 most borrowed authors in UK libraries, according to figures from annual data released by the British Library. David Walliams’ popularity continues to soar and he’s now the nineteenth most borrowed author, up from forty first place in 2014-15. Jeff Kinney does not make it into the top ten authors but his Diary of a Wimpy Kid series is clearly a big hit with kids with eight titles in the series featuring in the top 10 most borrowed children’s fiction titles. For parents looking for something for their ‘reluctant reader,’ this library data provides a helpful guide to what other children love. For more details on most borrowed children’s authors and titles visit www.bl.uk/plr.
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All Stars Cricket All Stars Cricket is a 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 national curriculum of fun cricket activities and games provides children with the basic movement skills to begin a lifelong love of physical activity. The programme includes the 8 week All Stars Cricket programme (1 x hour session per week) and a pack containing a bat, ball, rucksack, cap and t shirt (personalised with their name). The pack also includes an Activity book with weekly challenges. The programme is delivered by trained volunteers who deliver gamebased activities that teach cricket skills like catching, throwing and hitting a moving ball plus social skills. Held at accredited cricket clubs these courses are a perfect way for children to learn about cricket and make friends in safe environment. The course costs RRP £40 (price may vary) and clubs will be encouraged to deliver their programmes from May 11th through to July. For more information or to register for a summer of #BigMoments please visit allstarscricket.co.uk
Free residential camps for children with health challenges Over The Wall is a national charity providing free therapeutic activity camps for children aged 8-17 affected by serious illness and their families. The camps boost the children’s confidence and resilience as they build a support network of friends facing similar struggles. Over The Wall presents children with the opportunity to experience the fun of camp through activities such as kayaking, fishing, climbing, swimming, dancing, taking part in challenge courses, archery, arts and crafts, talent shows, discos and more. Camps will to take place in locations across the UK from April to October. Each camp will have an onsite medical environment staffed by medical professionals. Children with illnesses such as cancer and leukaemia, blood disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, skin conditions, multiple severe allergies, heart conditions, kidney disease, neurological disorders and other conditions can apply. Camps are also offered to siblings affected by health challenges. Over The Wall will be recruiting for volunteers for its camps, as well as nurses, doctors and paramedics. If you want to help call 02392 477110. To find out more visit www.otw.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk
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Education
How Early Learning Can Predict a Child’s Success By Dr Robert Titzer
You may be surprised to learn that the long term effects of children learning language and maths skills at an early age is one of the greatest predictors of their financial success as adults. How can this be possible you may ask? With the many confounding variables such as a child’s IQ, formal education and socio-demographic background, it’s hard to believe that early reading or maths skills can be one of the most important factors associated with doing well as an adult. However, a 2013 study from the University of Edinburgh1 shows that early maths and reading abilities have major long-term benefits. Children who performed better in reading and maths tests at age 7 were shown to be more likely to earn higher wages later in life according to researchers. Children who had advanced by just one grade level in reading by age 7 earned an average of £5,000 per year more at age 42 than their classmates. The study also concluded that “mathematical and reading ability at age 7 are substantially and positively correlated with financial success at age 42, independently of relevant confounding variables.” In other words, it was the actual reading and maths abilities at age 7 – not just the child’s socioeconomic status, the child’s IQ, or other factors – that had a lasting impact on the person’s life chances. Understanding Words Research consistently indicates that the earlier a child learns language skills, the better the long term outcome.
A well-known study in 19952 found that the number of words spoken to a child by age 3 was a better predictor of a child’s vocabulary at age 11 than the parents’ IQs, parents’ socio-economic status, or which school the child attended. A more recent study on the topic found that babies who learned more words by 18 months of age had greater vocabularies at age 3. In addition, the researchers found that 18-month-old babies who knew more words had faster brain processing speed. The study also concluded that the “language gap” that exists by 18 months of age would be hard to overcome, meaning that babies who had been taught fewer words in the first 18 months of life could have later delays in learning language skills3 . Early Reading and Maths Skills Reading problems at an early age are hard to counter-act later on in life. Very few children who cannot read at the appropriate level at the end of first grade ever catch up. There are also significant advantages in learning to read early. Studies back in the 1960s concluded that children who were taught to read at ages 3 or 4 read better than children of the same IQ who were taught at ages 5 or 6. Those with the same IQs who were taught at ages 7 or 8 were even farther behind. Six years later, the children who were taught to read earlier were still ahead of the same-IQ children who were taught later. In addition, the earlier the child was taught to read, the more likely the child enjoyed reading. Parental involvement in teaching children about reading and writing words is also related to the development of early literacy skills. In turn, early literacy skills directly predict word reading at the end of first grade (age 6-7 years) and indirectly predict reading in third grade (age 8-9 years). Word reading at the end of first grade predicts reading comprehension in third grade. So, if you are wondering how to give your infant a head start in life, it’s worth investigating the resources available to help you teach little ones language and maths skills as early as possible. You can read my tips at www.yourbabycanlearn.com
Dr Robert Titzer is an Infant Researcher and expert speaker at The Baby Show returning to London ExCeL 2nd – 4th March 2018 (www.thebabyshow.co.uk). 1 Ritchie, S. J. & Bates, T. C., (2013). Enduring Links From Childhood Mathematics and Reading Achievement to Adult Socioeconomic Status. Psychological Science. 2 Hart, B. & Risley, T., (1995). Meaningful Differences in Everyday Parenting and Intellectual Development in Young American Children. Baltimore: Brookes. 3 Fernald, A., Marchman, V. A. & Weisleder, A., (2012). SES differences in language processing skill and vocabulary are evident at 18 months. Developmental Science.
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Spring Time Fun
Win a Family Cinema Ticket* Hertford Theatre is a great place to visit during the Easter holidays. With lots of different family films to choose, free activity sheets and colouring in tables plus a great café, why not spend the afternoon in Hertford? This family friendly venue is located in Hertford's town centre. Hertford Theatre shows award-winning children’s performances – from West End productions such as ‘The Gruffalo’s Child’ and ‘Gangsta Granny’ to intimate studio pieces like ‘’Tom Thumb or ‘Me and My Bee’. Hertford Theatre also hold Relaxed events for families who have members with special
educational needs (SEN) or Autism. On 3rd April, ‘You’ve Got Dragons’ will take to the stage. The show is specially designed for children with SEN/Autism and features creative captioning, interwoven British Sign Language and audio description. Tickets are Pay What You Can – so it’s the perfect opportunity to try something new! Find out more at www.hertfordtheatre.com or call 01992 531500 For your chance to win a *family cinema ticket (4 persons) to see a film during the Easter Holidays at Hertford Theatre, simply answer this question:
Ingredients: for the icing and nests 160g icing sugar 50g soft butter 1 tbsp cocoa powder 1-2 tbsp orange juice – from the orange you have just used 100g dark chocolate chips 1 tbsp golden syrup 5-6 shredded wheat biscuits Chocolate mini eggs You will need... Weighing scales. Mixing bowls. Wooden spoon. Fork. Saucepan. 12 Hole muffin tray. Measuring jug. Tablespoon Teaspoon. Sharp knife. Large plate. Muffin cases. An adult.
Mum Thrilled with Confidence Boost from Perform Drama With Perform drama classes well-established in Hertfordshire, we spoke to Jessica Harrison to find out why she has been sending her children, Ellie (9) and George (6), to Perform since the age of 4. “Ellie is a natural performer” says Jessica, “so Perform was always going to work for her. George is a more reserved child who likes to play by himself. But, actually, George probably gets more out of Perform than Ellie! He has grown so much in confidence since attending.” “Perform is not like a stage school. The children perform a show, but the focus is on fun games and exercises that teach them 8
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A. Doc Martin B. Mr McGregor C. Mrs Tiggy-Winkle Email your answer to: editor@familiesherts.co.uk Closing date: 25th March
4. While the cakes are cooking make the icing; cream the icing sugar, butter and cocoa powder together, adding sufficient orange juice to make a stiff icing.
Easter Nest Cakes Ingredients: for the cakes 150g soft butter or margarine 150g caster sugar 3 eggs 150g self raising flour 1 heaped tbsp cocoa powder Grated zest of an orange
What is the name of the gardener in Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit stories:
5. Ask an adult to melt the chocolate chips and golden syrup in a heatproof bowl over a pan of barely simmering water. Use your fingers to crumble up the shredded wheat and add to the melted chocolate mix, stir to mix. How to make Easter nest cakes... WASH YOUR HANDS. 1. Ask an adult to preheat the oven to 170c/ gas 4 and put a shelf onto the centre runner. (AGA Roasting oven - shelf on oven floor). 2. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, beat in the eggs then fold in the flour, cocoa powder and grated orange zest. Mix well. 3. Spoon the mixture into 12 muffin cases in a muffin tray, ask an adult to put the muffin tray into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until springy, to check, insert a skewer, if it comes out clean the cakes are cooked. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.
6. Once your cakes have cooled spread the chocolate buttercream icing on top then arrange the chocolate shredded wheat mixture to look like nests and finish with 2 or 3 chocolate eggs. If you prefer you can substitute the shredded wheat mixture for chocolate flakes, break them up and arrange them on the icing, top with chocolate eggs as before. With thanks to Beverley Glock Cookery School. 01844 275692 www.beverleyglock.com ©Beverley Glock 2009
incredible life skills, like making eye contact, speaking out clearly and making conversation” reports Jessica. “Initially George mumbled a couple of words in the shows. Now he speaks out in a strong voice and smiles all the way through. This confidence has really improved his everyday interactions with family, school friends and teachers.” “These days, we spend so much time looking at our phones. Through Perform my children now understand the importance of engaging with others – and they don’t even know they’ve learned this!” To book a FREE TRIAL in Hertfordshire, visit www.perform.org.uk/try. See the Perform entry in What's On for your local class. familiesonline.co.uk
The perfect start to performing arts
British Science Week at The SandPit Theatre! British Science Week is taking place 9-18th March 2018 and at The Sandpit Theatre they want you to get involved! This year’s theme is ‘Exploration and Discovery’, encouraging young people to think about and investigate the changes happening in the world around them, and your kids can take part by going along to the Chemistry Show on Tuesday 13th March. An evening filled with loud noises, flashing lights and lots of mess, it will be a fun-filled, explosive showcase of science! The show will take place at The Sandpit Theatre on Tuesday 13th March 2018, at 6pm. Tickets are £1 each. Book on www. sandpittheatre.co.uk or through the Box Office on 01727 799565.
A new term lies just around the corner and with more children attending Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools than ever before, there has never been a better time to take to the stage than now. Performing arts classes are hugely enjoyable for children of all ages and they are an excellent way to build confidence and social skills. With classes in Broxbourne, St Albans, Stevenage, Ware and across Hertfordshire, why not book a two-week trial today? Visit www.jigsaw-arts.co.uk or call 020 8447 4530.
Knebworth House – the season begins
Knebworth House, Park, Gardens, Adventure Playground and Dinosaur Trail are open between 24th March and 30th September 2018. Families can enjoy a fantastic line-up of events when visiting during Easter. On the Easter Trail (30 and 31 March) children can follow the trail around Gardens and return the completed Quiz Sheet at the Gift Shop to claim a reward (Quiz Sheet costs £1 from the Gift Shop in addition to a Park & Gardens admission ticket, last sale 3:00pm). At the Medieval Jousting (1 and 2 April) families can cheer and jeer the Knights of Arkley as they perform 40-minute jousting battles in front of the house (12:30pm and 14:30pm, weather dependent). The Green Dragon Bowmen will be offering have a go archery at the top of Concert Field (£2 for 6 arrows). For full details of opening times and dates and to book go to www.knebworthhouse.com or call 01438 812661.
Come on, get Jumpin’ Jump In Trampoline Parks offer the most exciting jump experience for kids and adults. The parks are more than just trampolines, they include drop slides, tumble tracks, dodgeball courts, trapeze swings, rope ladders, giant air bag, performance trampolines, balance beams and loads more. There are two fantastic venues in the North London and Hertfordshire areas, both offer the brand new ‘Tuck In’ menu and are open seven days a week. Drop into Jump In Enfield or Jump In Elstree and refuel with a tasty meal or snack after a great bouncing workout. Jump In Elstree is known for its new style, brand new soft play and renovated café area. Jump In Enfield, only one year old, is the
prize venue servicing North East London, Hertfordshire and Essex areas. Check out the fitness classes, toddler mornings and after school sessions, available weekly at both venues. To book visit www.gojumpin.com or to get in touch email hello@gojumpin.com
Where did your lie ins go? Nothing stops lie-ins and long lunches quite like having kids. Instead you spend weekends outside in the cold. Because children are led by your actions and language you need to be super excited about going outside! Being outside stimulates children’s imagination, supports their immune system and gives them a sense of freedom. In addition to the physical exercise that sport provides, it also helps children to develop healthy bones, improves their attention span and teaches teamwork skills. Playing sport outdoors is vital for developing these benefits and that means you standing on the sidelines all year round! A wise person once said: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. So wrap your kids up warm, shove a hot water familiesonline.co.uk
bottle down your jumper and get the family outside! Try Time Kids Rugby runs sessions for girls and boys every Saturday in Hitchin and St Albans. To book a free trial session and to find out more go to trytimekidsrugby.com 9
Spring What’s On Shows THE ALBAN ARENA Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD 01727 844488 www.alban-arena.co.uk Peppa Pig’s Adventure 30 Mar – 4pm 31 Mar – 10am, 1am, 4pm Peppa Pig and friends are back in the new live show. Cost: £17. Under 16s £15. Family £60 Dinosaur World Live 9 Apr – 2 & 4.30pm 10 Apr – 11am & 2pm Discover a pre-historic world of life-like dinosaurs. Ages 3+ Cost: £14 The Sleeping Beauty 21 Apr – 2.30pm Vienna Festival Ballet. Cost: £23. Concs £20, £15 BROADWAY THEATRE Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD, 01462 681088 www.broadway-letchworth.com I Believe in Unicorns 11 Mar – 3pm Michael Morpurgo’s treasured story brought to life. Cost: £16. Concs £14 The Jungle Book 9 Apr – 2.30pm A wild musical for all the family! Cost: £12. Family £44 HERTFORD THEATRE The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com The Pied Piper 11 Mar – 11am & 2pm A show combining puppetry, music and storytelling. Ages 3-7. Cost: £9 Gangsta Granny 22 & 23 Mar – 7pm 24 Mar – 11am & 3pm Award-winning West End production of the story by David Walliams. Ages 5+. Cost: From £20. Concs £16. Family £68 The Amazing Bubble Man 31 Mar – 11.30am & 2pm A delightful show with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. Cost: £12. Family £46
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Relaxed Performance: You've Got Dragons 3 Apr – 1.30 & 4pm Specially designed for children with SEN/Autism. With live, original music. A touching exploration of the dragons we all face. Ages 3+. Cost: Book your ticket as normal and simply Pay What You Can on the day Tom Thumb 7 & 8 Apr – 11am & 2pm Performed entirely on and under a kitchen table, this show is full of magic. Ages 3+. Cost: £9 The Jungle Book 13 Apr – 2pm New musical adaptation of this family favourite. Ages 4+. Cost: £13. Conc £11. Family £44 Dogs Don't Do Ballet 15 Apr – 1.30 & 3.30pm This feel-good show features music, handcrafted puppets and Biff, the ballet-dancing dog! Ages 3+. Cost: £13. Family £48 THE OLD TOWN HALL THEATRE High Street, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3AE, 01442 228091 www.oldtownhall.co.uk The Amazing Thing 10 Mar – 2.30pm Storyteller, Peter Grimm, opens the box to find the ‘Thing’ and amazing adventures follow. Ages 5+. Cost: £6.50. Dacorum Card £5 Oskar’s Amazing Adventure 24 Mar – 2.30pm A heart-warming play full of humour, adventure and music. Ages 2-8. Cost: £6.50. Dacorum Card £5 Susannah and the Sunflower 14 Apr – 2.30pm A celebration of the magic of growing things and dreaming big. Ages 3+. Cost: £7. Dacorum Card £5.50 Sourpuss 28 Apr – 2.30pm Sourpuss is a grumpy, ginger cat who discovers an intriguing garden. Ages 3-8. Cost: £7. Dacorum Card £5.50 THE RADLETT CENTRE 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 8HL, 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs 21 Mar – 6pm Dr Ben Garrod presents a fun, interactive, educational show. Ages 5+. Cost: £16. Under 16s £14. Family £56
The Jungle Book 4 Apr – 11am & 2.30pm A wild musical for all the family! Cost: £12. Family £40 Teddy Bear's Picnic 6 Apr – 11am & 2pm Songs, games, stories, fun and laughter for under 5s. Cost: £9.50. Family £32 Pop Divas - Live! 8 Apr – 6pm Tribute acts featuring songs from Little Mix, Katy Perry, Adele, Meghan Trainor, Arianna Grande, Taylor Swift and Rihanna. Cost: £16 What the Ladybird Heard 19 Apr - 1.30 & 4.30pm 20 & 21 Apr-10.30am & 1.30pm Stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks' farmyard adventure. Ages 3+. Cost: £13 THE SANDPIT THEATRE The Ridgeway, St Albans, AL4 9NX, 01727 799565 www.sandpittheatre.co.uk Chemistry Show 13 Mar – 6pm An evening filled with loud noises, flashing lights and lots of mess! Part of National Science Week. Cost: £1 Oliver! 24 Mar – 2.30 & 6.30pm With performers aged 8-19 from West Herts Musical Theatre group. Cost: £10/£8 The Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly 3 Apr – 2pm A magical show written for adults to enjoy with their children. Cost: £10/£8 Peter Pan and Captain Cook 5 Apr – 11am Fly into an imaginative and absurd Neverland. Cost: £6/£4 THE SPOTLIGHT High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8BE, 01992 441946 www.broxbourne.gov.uk/ thespotlight Monstersaurus! 11 Mar – 11.30am & 2pm A young inventor creates a whole world of whacky inventions and monsters. Ages 3+. Cost: £13 Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday 30 Mar – 1.30 & 4pm 31 Mar – 11am & 2pm A blend of puppetry, storytelling and music. Ages 3+. Cost: £14. Family £49. Babes in arms £6
Teletubbies 2 & 3 May – 10am & 1pm Join Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po. Ages 2+. Cost: £16. Family of 4 £52. Family of 3 £40. Family of 2 £28 WYLLYOTTS THEATRE Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, Potters Bar, EN6 2HN 01707 645005 www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk The Sleeping Beauty 25 Mar – 2pm Vienna Festival Ballet. Cost: £20. Concs £15 Milkshake! Live: The Magic Storybook 7 Apr – 12 & 3.30pm Enjoy your favourite fairy tales. With Milkshake! favourites Bob the Builder, Little Princess, Noddy and Fireman Sam. Cost: £16, £14.50. Family £57. Babes in arms under 12 mths £5
Holiday Camps and Courses KOOL KIDZ CAMPS Sandridge Primary School, Woodcock Hill, Sandridge, St Albans, AL4 9EB 0845 603 2858 www.koolkidzgroup.co.uk Weekdays 3-13 Apr Ages 4-12. Half or full days. See website for prices HARTHAM LEISURE CENTRE Hartham Lane, Hertford, SG14 1QR, 01992 584000 www.everyoneactive.com Swimming Crash Courses 3-6 & 9-13 Apr 8.30 & 9am: Under 5s NonSwimmer / Over 5s NonSwimmer. 9.30am: 5metres+ swimmers Cost: 4-day course £25.80. 5-day course £32.25 Soccer Camp 01438 222222 ext. 6 jamesw@stevenagefc.com 3-5 & 10-12 Apr – 9am-4pm Ages 4-14. Cost: Day £16. 3 days £45 NORTH HERTS LEISURE CENTRE Baldock Rd, Letchworth SG6 2ER 01462 679311, www.sll.co.uk Wild Camp 3-6 & 9-13 Apr Fun-packed play scheme for ages 3-12 including sports, games and swimming. Ofsted registered. Cost: Full day £27. Half day £13.50 familiesonline.co.uk
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Spring What’s On KNIGHTS TEMPLAR SPORTS CENTRE Weston Way, Baldock, SG7 6EY 01462 631300, www.sll.co.uk Kidventure Playscheme Fun sports, games, bouncy castle, arts and crafts. Full and half days. Ages 5-10. HERTS YOUNG MARINERS BASE Windmill Lane, Cheshunt, EN8 9AJ 01992 628403 www.hymb.com 3-6 & 9-13 Apr Caving; climbing; sailing; kayaking; canoeing; bell boating; raft building; bush craft; fencing; archery. Cost: £10 per person per session. Full week £110 COURTYARD ARTS AND COMMUNITY CENTRE Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA 01992 509596 www.courtyardarts.org.uk Animate Your Own Toy Story 10 Apr – 10am-12.30pm Create a stop motion animation. Ages 8-12. Cost: £15 incl materials Moving Collage 10 Apr – 1-3.30pm Learn basic animation to create a stop motion clip. Ages 10-15. Cost: £15 incl materials Furry Friends 11 Apr – 10.30am-12.30pm Learn to draw fur and animal shapes with watercolour pencils. Ages 7+. Cost: £13.50 incl materials Planes and Trains 11 Apr – 1.30-3.30pm Learn to draw and paint vehicles with watercolour pencils. Ages 7+. Cost: £13.50 incl materials
Places to Go OAKLANDS COLLEGE St Albans Campus, Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL4 0JA www.oaklands.ac.uk/lambing Lambing Weekend 10-11 Mar – 10am-3pm Ewes and lambs, reptiles, rabbits and horses. Donkey rides. Farmers market. Treasure hunt. Refreshments. Free Park and Ride. No dogs. Cost. FREE. By ticket only BROADWAY STUDIO AND GALLERY 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3EW 01462 681088 www.broadway-letchworth.com 12 Families Herts
Family Arts Studio 10am-1pm 11 Mar: Making Mobiles 8 Apr: Watercolour and Wax Hands-on craft activities. Drop in. Ages 3-10. Open to all. FREE PANSHANGER PARK Nr Welwyn, SG14 2WN 01727 858901 www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk Little Explorers 10am-12noon or 1-3pm 4 Apr: Enchanted Woodland 11 Apr: Muddy Playtime Themed activities. Campfire and snacks, weather permitting. Ages 2-7 (with an adult). Cost: £6 per child Wild Families 10am-12noon or 1-3pm 5 Apr: Springtime Scavenger Hunt 12 Apr: Muddy Madness Campfire and snacks, weather permitting. Ages 4-11 (with an adult). Cost: £6 per child per session Wild Kids Adventure Days 10am-3pm 6 Apr: Bow and Arrow Making 13 Apr: Muddy Mayhem Games, crafts, play-time in the woods, campfire. Ages 8-13. Ages 6-7 welcome with an adult. Book in advance. Cost: £15 per child per day BISHOPS STORTFORD MUSEUM Rhodes Arts Complex, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford. org.uk Kids Craft Workshops (Drop in, ages 5+) 17 Mar: Mad March Hare 3-5 Apr: Easter Bunny 10-12 Apr: Peg Doll Cost: £3 per child per session Easter Trail 30 Mar-14 Apr Ages 3+. Find all the eggs around the Museum to win a prize! FREE VERULAMIUM MUSEUM St Michael's Street, St Albans, AL3 4SW, 01727 751810 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk Museum entry charge applies to non-residents Crafts in the Colonnade 2, 3, 9 & 10 Apr – 2-4pm (last entry 3.40pm) Simple crafts inspired by the Museum’s collections. Children must be with an adult. Cost: £1.50
Museum Explorers 5 & 12 Apr Borrow items from an explorer kit and investigate the Museum. FREE Family Fridays 6 Apr: Iron Age Houses 13 Apr: Ancient Jewellery 11am-1pm (last entry 12.40pm) Drop-in craft session. Handle artefacts, make a souvenir. Children must be with an adult. Cost: £2.50 Meet Queen Boudicca 5 Apr – 2 & 3pm Meet the queen of the Iceni tribe FREE Meet a Roman Soldier 8 Apr – 2.30 & 3.30pm Discover what life was like as a Roman Soldier. FREE LOWEWOOD MUSEUM High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8BH, 01992 445596 www.broxbourne.gov.uk Easter Egg Hunt 31 Mar – 11am-3pm Follow the trails to claim your chocolate prize. FREE Family Fun 12-3pm 5 Apr: Spring Lamb Puppets 12 Apr: Paper Flower Display Drop in crafts. Children must be with an adult. Cost: £1.50 per child HATFIELD PARK FARM Hatfield, AL9 5HX 01707 287010 www.hatfieldparkfarm.co.uk Cost: £5. Child £2.50. Under 3s Free Farm Opens for the Season 20 Mar CJ’s Birds of Prey 24 Mar Static display of birds of prey. Easter Fun 31 Mar-2 Apr Includes storytelling. MEAD OPEN FARM Stanbridge Road, Billington, LU7 9JH 01525 852954 www.meadopenfarm.co.uk Easter Wonderland 30 Mar - 13 Apr Don’t miss Mead Open Farm’s Easter Wonderland! Tumble down the rabbit hole to explore Alice’s Wonderland Walk, meet the Mad Hatter and let the cheeky Cheshire Cat guide you on your journey. With puppet shows, cute baby animals and
lots more. All the extra Easter fun is included in ticket price. See farm website for entry prices. MILL GREEN MUSEUM & MILL Mill Green, Hatfield, AL9 5PD 01707 357850 www.welhat.gov.uk/museum Holiday Activities (4 yrs+) 10am, 11.15am, 1.15pm & 2.30pm (lasts one hour) 3 Apr: Foody Art and Craft Fun 5 Apr: Clay Model of your Favourite Food 10 Apr: Hats for Princess and Knights 11 Apr: Coat of Arms Tabard 12 Apr: Clay Model Castle Cost: £3.50 per child per session Bake a Bread Roll 4 Apr – 10am-12noon or 1-3pm Cost: £1 per piece of dough BRITISH SCHOOLS MUSEUM 41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, SG4 9TS, 01462 420144 www.britishschoolsmuseum. co.uk Easter Craft Activity Day 4 & 11 Apr – 10am-12pm & 1-3pm Crafts, games and scavenger hunt for ages 4-11. Cost: £5 per child, includes drink and biscuit Herts at War Discovery Day 5 & 12 Apr – 10am-1pm Follow a WW1 soldier’s journey from enlistment to the trenches. Make medals and flags, try some rations and a drill session. Ages 4-11. Cost: £5 per child, includes drink and biscuit ASHRIDGE ESTATE Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted, HP4 1LT 01442 851227 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ ashridge-estate Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt 30 Mar-1 Apr – 10am-4pm Help the Cadbury bunny learn about the animals of Ashridge. Answer the questions to get the chocolate reward. Cost: Child £5 Easter Crafts 9-13 Apr – 10am-4pm Cost: Child £2 HARPENDEN CRICKET CLUB Harpenden, AL5 1DT www.harpenden.gov.uk Harpenden Easter Egg Hunt 30 Mar Ticket price includes hunt prize, craft activity and meeting the Easter bunny. Cost: £5 per child
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Spring What’s On FLETCHERS LEA AT WARE PRIORY High Street, Ware, SG12 9AL 01920 460316 www.waretowncouncil.gov.uk Easter Funday 31 Mar – 1.30-3pm Egg hunt for under 8s. Egg decorating competition for all ages (prize giving 3.15pm). FREE LUDWICK FAMILY CLUB Hall Grove, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 4PH Easter Egg Hunt and Children’s Disco 18 Mar – 1-3pm Tickets from www.eventbrite. co.uk Cost: Child £3.50. Adult £1 Proceeds to Motor Neuron Disease Association HIGHFIELD PARK West Lodge, Hill End Lane, St. Albans, AL4 0RA 01727 847242 www.highfieldparktrust.co.uk Easter Bunny Hunt 5 Apr – 10.30am-2.30pm Answer the questions correctly to win a cream egg! FREE ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL AL1 1BY, 01727 860780 www.stalbanscathedral.org Family Discovery Morning: Easter! 12 Apr – 10am-12.30pm Easter-themed activities with hot cross bun tasting and a chocolate fountain. Ages 3-11 (must be with an adult). FREE SIR FREDERIC OSBORN SCHOOL Herns Lane, Welwyn Garden City, AL7 2AF www.facebook.com/ events/133634140560958/ Family Fun Day and Craft Fayre 29 Apr – 12-5pm Petting zoo. Kiddie rides. Go karts. Bubble football. Bouncy castles. Donkey rides. Live music and acts. Cost: Adult £2. Child £1. Pay at gate KNEBWORTH HOUSE Knebworth, SG3 6PY 01438 812661 www.knebworthhouse.com Cost (online advance price): £8.55. Family £30.60. Under 3s free. Event entrance includes Park and Gardens with Dinosaur Trail and Adventure Playground. 14 Families Herts
Easter Trail 30 & 31 Mar – 11am-5pm Cost: Trail sheet additional £1 Medieval Jousting 1 & 2 Apr – approx 12.30 & 2.30pm Costumed knights display horsemanship and combat skills. Try archery (extra charge). PJ Masks 15 Apr – 10am-2pm Catboy and Owlette will be making appearances!
Clubs and Classes PERFORM Weekly drama, dance and singing classes www.perform.org.uk/try 020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk Confidence building fun for 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child's true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention. Perform offer no-obligation FREE trial sessions. Dates: 3 Jan – 29 Mar Venues: Bishops Stortford Summercroft Primary School Plaw Hatch Lane, CM23 5BJ Drama 4-7s - Mon 4pm Drama 7-12s - Mon 5pm Broxbourne Broxbourne Sports Club, Mill Lane Close, EN10 7BA Drama 4-7s - Thur 4pm Drama 7-12s - Thur 5pm Harpenden Harpenden United Reformed Church, Vaughan Road, AL5 4ED Dance 6-12s - Sat 2pm Drama 4-7s - Sat 9.30am, 11.15am, Tue 4pm Drama 7-12s - Tue 5pm Hemel Hempstead Apsley Community Centre London Road, HP39SB Drama 4-7s - Tues 4pm, 5pm Hertford Mill Mead School Port Vale, SG14 3AA Drama 4-7s - Sat 9.30am, 11.15am Hitchin, Church House Hall Church Yard, SG5 1HP Drama 4-7s - Wed 4pm Drama 7-12s - Wed 5pm Potters Bar St John's Methodist Church Baker Street, EN6 2DZ Drama 4-7s - Fri 4pm, 5pm
Radlett, Christ Church Vision Hall, Watling Street, WD7 7JJ Drama 4-7s - Wed 4pm, 5pm The Radlett Centre, Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 8HL Drama 7-12s - Sat 11.15am Sawbridgworth Sawbridgeworth Memorial Hall, The Fourbury, CM21 9BD Drama 4-7s - Thu 4pm Drama 7-12s - Thu 5pm St Albans Fleetville Junior School 228 Hatfield Road, AL1 4LW Drama 4-7s - Sat 9.30am, 11.15am Drama 7-12s - Sat 2pm United Reformed Church Homewood Road, AL1 4BH Drama 4-7s - Wed 4pm Drama 4-7s - Thu 4.15pm Drama 7-12s - Wed 5pm Trinity United Reform Church 1 Beaconsfield Road, AL1 3RD Drama 4-7s - Fri 4pm Drama 7-12s - Fri 5pm Welwyn Garden City Applecroft School, Applecroft Rd, AL8 6JZ Drama 4-7s – Sat 2.30pm WGC Quaker Meeting House, AL8 6SP Drama 4-7s – Wed 4pm Drama 7-12s – Wed 5pm STAGECOACH THEATRE ARTS www.stagecoach.co.uk Stagecoach aims to bring out the very best in every child. Children will learn performance skills in dance, song and drama. They also develop communication skills, improved self-esteem, co-ordination and fitness levels. Early Stages is for 4-6yr olds. Sessions 1.5hrs. Main Stages is for 6-18yrs. Session 3hrs. Further Stages for 16yrs plus. Some schools offer Summer Workshops and Parties. Berkhamsted & Hemel Hempstead, 01442 875977 Potten End First School Church Road, Potten End, HP4 2QY Early Stages: Sat 9.30, 11.15am Main Stages: Sat 10am, 2.30pm Swing Gate School Swing Gate Lane, Berkhamsted, HP4 2LJ Early Stages: Fri 4.30pm Main Stages: Fri 4.30pm Borehamwood 020 8958 3143 St Teresa's Primary School, Brook Road, WD6 5HL Early Stages: Sat 9.30, 9.45, 11.30am
Chorleywood 01923 771291 The Russell School Brushwood Drive, Chorleywood, WD3 5RR Early Stages: Sat 9.30, 11.15am Main Stages: Sat 10am, 2.30pm Harpenden 01525 717567 Sir John Lawes School Manland Way, Harpenden, AL5 4QP Early Stages: Fri 4.15, 4.45pm; Sat 9.30, 11.15am, 2pm, 3.45pm Main Stages: Fri 4.30pm; Sat 10am, 2.30pm St Albans 01525 630183 Cunningham Hill Junior School, Cell Barnes Lane, St Albans, AL1 5QJ Early Stages: Sat 9.30, 11.15am, 2pm, 3.45pm Main Stages: 10am, 2.30pm Welwyn & Hatfield 01707 429 777 Oaklands College, College Way, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6AH Early Stages: Sat 9.30, 11.15am, 2pm, 3.45pm Main Stages: 10am, 2.30pm Hertford 07474 082571 Duncombe School 4 Warren Park Road, Bengeo, Hertford, SG14 3JA Early Stages: Sat 9.30am Main Stages: Sat 10am Watford 01727 768738 Parmiter's School High Elms Lane, Garston, Watford, WD25 0UU Early Stages: Sat 9.15, 9.30, 10.30, 11.15am, 2pm Main Stages: Sat 10am, 2.30pm Further Stages: {16+}: Sat 2.30pm Rickmansworth 01923 771291 Little Green School Lincoln Drive, Croxley Green, Rickmansworth, WD3 3NJ Early Stages: Fri 4pm Main Stages: Fri 4.30pm Further Stages: {16+}: Fri 4.30pm Maple Cross Junior School Denham Way, Maple Cross, Rickmansworth, WD3 9SS Early Stages: Sat 9.30am
Main Stages: Sat 10am familiesonline.co.uk
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Children's Parties and Summer Camps & Activities. To advertise call 020 8428 6384 or email editor@familiesherts.co.uk
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Spring What’s On
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