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IN THIS ISSUE
Education What’s On Easter fun
ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL WINDSOR CASTLE
Join us for an Open Morning on Saturday 23 March or Friday 17 May Book your place today at stgwindsor.org
Issue 131 March/April 2024
editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley East
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Co-ed Nursery & Prep School Rising 3 to 11 years
OPEN EVENTS EXCELLENT ISI inspection
OPEN MORNINGS
‘
ISI Inspection October 2023
pupil wellbeing is central to decision-making by leaders teaching engages pupils' curiosity and imagination
‘
Friday 8th March 2024, 1000 – 1200 Saturday 18th May 2024, 1400 – 1600 To book, call 01753 541075 or email registrar@etonend.org
Friday 15 March 10.15am to 12 noon Saturday 11 May 9.45am to 12 noon Day and Boarding for Girls 11-18
heathfieldschool.net +44 (0) 1344 898343
Herries Co-Ed Preparatory School & Nursery from ages 2 - 11, Cookham Dean, Berkshire
Herries Prep School & Nursery Join us for a tour and have a glimpse into an exciting day at Herries! Call 01628 483350 or email admissions@herries.org.uk www.herries.org.uk
“Small places can do big things” Joanna Year 5 Small Class Sizes • Specialist Subject Teachers Study Skills • Sports at Bisham Abbey Woodland Activities • Holiday Camps • Wraparound Care
Currently No Waiting List Our stunning new private clinic is now open in Sunninghill, Berkshire The Evolving Mind is a place where neurodivergent children and their parents can finally feel listened to. Our team of best-in-class specialists guide children and their parents through every step of the process. Together, we’ll develop a holistic approach from autism and ADHD diagnosis to ongoing treatment, that prepares your child for a confident and capable future.
For more information, please contact
01344 292 292 www.theevolvingmind.co.uk • info@theevolvingmind.co.uk
ISI INSPECTION REPORT ‘EXCELLENT’ in all areas
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Kingswick House, Kingswick Drive, Sunninghill, Berkshire SL5 7BH
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
In this issue
CONTENTS ...endless ideas for families of young children in
Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham
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News & information EDUCATION
6
Learning Forest School skills
8
Open Days
9
Developing a positive attitude to learning
10
Packaging learning
13
Meet the Head: St Bernard's Preparatory School
14
Understanding APD EASTER
16-17
Easter holiday fun
18-19
WHAT’S ON
20
OUTDOORS: A year of nature activities
21
BOOKCLUB
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Thames Valley East
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@editorfamiliestve @familiestveMag
From the editors... Spring is in the air at last! We hope you enjoy our ‘Easter Holiday Fun’ article, which can be found on pages 16 and 17. In this issue, we have listed some of our favourite days out, shows and a few camps to help you plan your holiday time to make the most of every day. What’s On on pages 18 and 19 puts all local activities in date order for you too, so you won’t miss what is happening! Some of our key education articles, this issue include: ‘Learning Forest School skills’ on page 6 and 'Developing a positive attitude to learning’ on page 9. Plus don’t forget to check out ‘A year of nature activities’ and ‘Is gaming truly a villain?’ some other highlights of this issue. In March/April we always write up an Open Days Diary for you too, so you can see which schools are opening their doors up to parents this Spring. Check out page 8. Most of all we hope that the Easter Bunny brings you and your family some fun this Spring! Until next time!
PARENTING 22
Is gaming truly a villain?
23
Facing tween challenges
Editors:
Next issue:
Anna Collins and Rachel Bailey 01628 829761 / 01628 788058 editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk www.Familiesonline.co.uk
May/June 2024
Circulation: 17,000 Cover image: depositphotos.com
Families Thames Valley East is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All Franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd. Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks, SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Thames Valley East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Thames Valley East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
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Families Thames Valley East
3
NEWS AND INFORMATION
Term time holiday fines at record high
RSV jab could significantly cut baby hospital admissions
A record 350,000 parents in England were fined for taking their children out of school on unauthorised holidays last year, highlighting the struggle over attendance facing schools since the Covid crisis. The statistics from the Department for Education (DofE) reveal that holidays accounted for almost ninety percent of the 399,000 cases of parents being given a penalty notice by local authorities for their children’s unauthorised school absences. The sharp rise in fines underlines ongoing concerns of a breakdown in relations between schools and parents over attendance and behaviour, since the prolonged school closures during the pandemic. The total number of fines issued in 2022-23 was twenty percent higher than in 2018/19, the last full year before the pandemic hit and equates to a fine for one in every twenty pupils ages 5 to 16 at state schools.
A jab to combat a common seasonal virus among babies could reduce hospital admissions by more than eighty percent, a trial has shown. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) impacts ninety percent of children before they reach age 2, often causing a mild cold-like illness. Infection can also lead to severe lung problems like pneumonia and an estimated thirty thousand babies and youngsters are admitted to hospital in the UK each. Scientists have said the antibody treatment called nirsevimab could offer a solution after a study suggested a single shot provided immediate protection against chest infections for up to six months. The trial found this could lead to an eighty three percent reduction in RSV-related hospital admissions. The treatment is being considered for a UK rollout; it has been approved but not yet made available on the NHS. More info: www.nejm.org
More info: www.bit.ly/DofEStatistics
Caudwell Youth launches in Slough to mentor 11-to 24-year-olds at risk Young people at-risk in Slough could benefit from oneto-one support from volunteer mentors in the community thanks to the launch of Caudwell Youth’s new location. Caudwell Youth works by giving young people access to a volunteer mentor for 1-2 hours a week who supports them to take the positive and next steps in their life. Support may include goal setting, making positive lifestyle choices, work, education, and housing support. The charity says it will initially be able to deliver support for around 25 young people in the local area, by providing 25-30 volunteers to provide two-years' worth of mentoring, but hopes to develop this rapidly in the coming months, and years. www.caudwellyouth.org
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Families Thames Valley East
‘Time’ for British Science Week British Science Week is a ten day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths which takes place from 8 to 17 March and will mark its 30th anniversary. This year’s theme is ‘Time.’ Time is key to so many discoveries in science, technology, engineering and maths. From evolution, to lifecycles and computer chips, the understanding and measurement of time is important for the development of scientific learning and innovation. During British Science week, fantastic events and activities takie place across the UK on a huge range of topics at a wide range of venues, including community groups, cultural centres and museums. In addition, a range of FREE activity packs (including Early Years and Primary) and other resources can be downloaded for fun activities at home. To find a local event and download an activity pack, visit www.britishscienceweek.org
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
NEWS AND INFORMATION
‘Urgent action required’ as reading enjoyment falls Children’s enjoyment of reading has fallen to a twenty year low, a national survey has revealed. More than half of children and young people do not enjoy reading in their free time, according to a survey from the National Literacy Trust (NLT). The charity said reading enjoyment was lowest among disadvantaged children and warned that the research should serve as a ‘wake-up call.’ The charity warned: ‘Declining reading enjoyment across a growing number of children and young people must act as a wake-up call for all who support children and young people’s reading for pleasure and the many benefits it can bring.’ Researchers say that over half of children aged 8 to 18 (56.6 percent) surveyed do not enjoy reading in their spare time. More info: www.bit.ly/LiteracyTrust
Great British Spring Clean is back Wherever you live, you and your family can make a difference to your local environment by sparing just a few hours to take part in the Great British Spring Clean from 15 to 31 March. The event aims to encourage people across the country, from individual volunteers – dubbed #LitterHeroes by the charity – to families, schools, groups of friends, businesses, community groups and local authorities to come together to clean up streets, parks, beaches and other public spaces. It’s easy to get involved. Simply pledge to take part and either organise a litter-pick in your community or join an organised event. To find out more visit https://bit.ly/KBTspringclean
New attractions on offer at Jump In Jump In Adventure and Trampoline park Slough, is the perfect day out for the whole family! Jump into happy on the range of new attractions that have been added, such as Augmented Reality trampolines with a balloon-popping game and reaction walls along the main court. The Airena is a new air-tracked multi-sports pitch where you can challenge your friends to a game. Younger bouncers get the run of the park during Toddler Takeover sessions, ages 1-6. Ages 4+ can enjoy Open Jump, or party in a cool night club atmosphere during After Dark sessions. Planning a party? Choose one of Jump In’s 100%-Fun-ZeroStress party packages. Just choose a date and time, invite the guests, and Jump In will do the rest! All party packages include a party host, food, decorations, and clean up – starting from £17pp. Jump In can also cater to group bookings - school trips, youth group days out, and corporate team building - starting at £10pp. Organised youth groups can even have a sleepover! Bespoke packages as well as exclusive hire options are available. Enquire today to discuss your requirements. www.gojumpin.com/trampoline-park-slough
Would you like to advertise your business in our next issue? 07753 414605 BOOK TODAY Call or 07867 514138
Maidenhead and Windsor e: maidenhead.windsor@monkeymusic.co.uk
T : 01494 819138
Tuesdays - Cox Green Community Centre, Maidenhead, SL6 3AX Thursdays - Maidenhead Community Centre, SL6 7HY Fridays - All Saint's Church Dedworth, Windsor, SL4 4JW Rock'n'Roll for babies Jiggety-Jig for 2&3 yr olds
Heigh-Ho for 1-2 yr olds Ding-Dong for 3&4 yr olds
Sharing precious time together editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
Families Thames Valley East
5
EDUCATION
Learning Forest School skills By Jemma Z Smith ‘How was school today?’ a parent asked their child. ‘It was amazing: we all worked together to build a den; we played hide and seek in the woods and toasted marshmallows on a real fire!’ the child enthusiastically responded. This was a conversation I overheard in the playground after my first Forest School session with my Year 3 class. No mention of the new method of addition that we had worked so hard on using manipulatives; no rendition of the funny poem that we had been reading in English that had us all laughing as we acted out the different verses. Was I disappointed? Not one bit. Learning outside the box My class was the first class at the school to ‘do Forest School’ and they (and the adults) loved every minute of the afternoon. Some people might question ‘losing’ an afternoon’s learning within a packed, timetabled curriculum. I’d respond that rather than loss, the experience was in fact very beneficial to helping these children, preparing them in general for life beyond education. Teamwork, communication skills, risk analysis, trying things outside your comfort zone, resilience and independence are just a few things that my class of 7 and 8-year-olds learned that afternoon and they continued to learn and make progress in these areas throughout their time at primary school.
Finding your own outdoor learning
For some children, Forest School and learning outside the classroom can seem scary and unfamiliar. They may not have as much access to the outdoor environment as previous generations and this needs to be handled sensitively. Such children can still learn the skills and also enjoy everything that the environment has to offer, when led by adults who are aware of and respond to how they are feeling in a way that helps them get the most out of the opportunity. Making it work Not every school has access to a forest or woodland area but they can still embrace the ethos of Forest School and it can be adapted in so many ways. You don’t have to have a real fire to sing songs in the round and you can be creative in an art or music lesson and take it outside! Jemma Z Smith is Director of The Education Hotel. For further advice, visit www.educationhotel.co.uk
Trips and residential opportunities
Your child’s school may not have Forest School opportunities on offer to all children but there are lots of private providers out there who run enriching after school and holiday clubs. You may even find them advertising in this magazine! Alternatively, a quick search online will usually yield a list of providers in your local area.
These are a highlight of a child’s school life, allowing them to empathise with how other people live or lived, giving them a change of scenery and a change of adult teachers. Not all children learn best when sat at a table; being interactive and hands-on can have so much more impact on long-term memory and knowledge retention.
Even simple activities, like taking a walk in your local park, can offer outdoor learning opportunities: your kids can take note of the different leaves on the trees and research them when you get home or using an app on an adult’s phone. They can take photos of the different colours of nature at different times of year, look out for animal footprints and play ‘hide and seek’ with their friends and family - I bet the children are much better at this than the adults!
When Year 6 reduce us all to tears at their leaving assembly every July, it is the moment when someone fell out of the canoe (and got back in safely), when someone successfully abseiled or when the teacher got covered in mud (true story) at the end of the obstacle race that they want to share. These experiences teach children so much more than academic skills: they teach them life skills.
Being outdoors offers so much learning potential and like all good learning opportunities, when a child is having so much fun that they don’t realise they are learning, all the better.
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New experiences
Families Thames Valley East
In today’s fast-paced, busy and tech-driven world, it can be difficult to take a step back and embrace what nature has to offer but it is increasingly important to do so for everyone’s well-being.
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
EDUCATION
ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL WINDSOR CASTLE
Just imagine – a school that combines the best academic progress in Berkshire, with award-winning personal development and sector-leading pastoral care
Join us for an Open Morning on Saturday 23 March or Friday 17 May
Weekday Open Morning Friday 15th March, 9-11am
Book your place today at stgwindsor.org
Find out more at www.leightonpark.com/imagine-better A place where children may find their ‘happy ever after’
Local bus service now available
STG ad (Round and About).indd 1
15/07/2022 13:57
ST GEORGE’S ST GEORGE’S WINDSOR Stay and Play For ages 2 to 4
editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
WINDSOR 14th March
From 1:45 to 3pm
godstowe.org
Families Thames Valley East
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EDUCATION
Schools’ Open Days Spring 2024
Please call the school to check the Open Day or Evening is still going ahead.
ACS Egham International School London Road, Egham, Surrey TW20 0HS Saturday 23 March 9.30am-12.30pm To book a visit, contact below: 01784 430 611 www.acs-schools.com/opendays
Godstowe Shrubbery Road High Wycombe Buckinghamshire HP13 6PR Thursday 14 March (Early Years Stay and Play) Saturday 11 May (Open Morning) To book a visit, contact below: 01494 529273 www.godstowe.org
Leighton Park School Shinfield Road, Reading RG2 7DE Friday 15 March Friday 10 May Friday 14 June 9-11am Individual tours by arrangement To book a visit, contact below: 0118 987 9608 admissions@leightonpark.com www.leightonpark.com/visit-leightonpark
Claires Court for girls and boys from 2 to 18 years Heathfield School Maidenhead locations London Road, Ascot, SL5 8BQ Friday 8 March (Senior Boys) Whole School Open Mornings: Monday 11 March (Senior Girls) St Bernard’s Preparatory School Friday 15 March Friday 19 April (Year 9 Senior Boys) Hawtrey Close, Slough SL1 1TB 10.15am-12 noon Above 9.30-11.30am Thursday 9 May Saturday 11 May Friday 26 April (Discovery Day for Yr 5) 9-11am Saturday 5 October Individual tours by arrangement 5-7pm 9.45am-12 noon To book a visit, contact below: To book a visit, contact below: To book a visit, contact below: 01628 327710 01753 521821 01344 for 898342 registrar@clairescourt.com Please find below a proof of your advertisement the admissions@stbernardsprep.org admissions@heathfieldschool.net www.clairescourt.com Jan/Feb 2020 issue (No. 106) of Families TVE. www.stbernardsprep.org www.heathfieldschool.net Coworth Flexlands Prep School and St George’s School Windsor Castle Herries School Co-ed Preparatory Nursery Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially Datchet Road, Windsor SL4 1QF School and Nursery Chertsey Road, Valley End, Chobham, dates,8TE telephone numbers and addresses. Dean Lane, Cookham Dean SL6 9BD Saturday 23 March GU24 10.30am-12.30pm To book a private tour, contact below: To book a visit, contact below: Friday 17 May 01628 483350 01276 855707 Any changes need to be made at this stage. T: 07867 514138 / 07753 414605 9.30-11.30am admissions@herries.org.uk registrar@coworthflexlands.co.uk for. Any further amendments will be charged To book a visit, contact below: Instagram: HerriesWindintheWillows E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk www.coworthflexlands.co.uk www.herries.org.uk 01753 865553 Little enquiries@stgwindsor.org People Media, 29 Furrow Way, Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your Eton End www.stgwindsor.org advertisement. Maidenhead SL6 3 NY 35 Eton Road, Datchet SL3 9AX Highfield Preparatory School Friday 8 March 2 West Road, Maidenhead SL6 1PD 10am-12 noon Friday 15 March (Whole School) Upton House School Windsor Saturday 18 May 2-3.30pm 115 St Leonard’s Road, Windsor SL4 3DF 2-4pm Monday 18 March (Preschool) Virtual Open Morning every term To book a visit, contact below: 9-10.20am Bespoke in-person tours every week 01753 541075 To book a visit, contact below: To book a visit, contact below: registrar@etonend.org 01628 624 918 registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk www.etonend.org office@highfieldprep.org 01753 862610 www.highfieldprep.org www.uptonhouse.org.uk/admissions/ virtual-open-mornings
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Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
EDUCATION
Developing a positive attitude towards learning By Gail Hugman
No matter how skilled or knowledgeable a person might be, their attitude may well be the deciding factor in their future success, both personal and professional. Recent neuroscience has discovered the crucial role a positive attitude plays in the learning process, particularly during the primary years. The second a child is born, their brain, with roughly eighty six billion neurons or nerve cells, ‘hits the ground running’ making connections through senses and experience. Everything a young child does, feels, hears and sees creates pathways between these nerve cells, building a reference bank of experience. In the first three years, the connections the brain makes have risen to one thousand trillion. This is an automatic process. Ninety percent of brain development is complete by the time a child is 5 years old. Although there is a default setting for the brain to function whether we engage or not, when it comes to learning, children who are actively engaged in the learning process are going to be far more effective and therefore, higher achieving than their peers who are simply ‘going through the motions’ of learning. The child who loves practising the guitar is going to progress more quickly than the child who battles with you or resents practising! The reason for this is that as we grow, the brain takes its lead from what we do repeatedly. Where we make a conscious decision to put effort is where the brain will focus connections.
Children who enjoy what they’re doing, who love learning and who have a positive attitude, actively engage. Active engagement creates the signal for the connections the brain makes to be ‘cemented’ in myelin, a coating of fat and protein which make them ‘automatic.’ This is how learning is assimilated and habits are created. The brain doesn’t know whether what a child is doing is good or not, it just takes its lead from repetitious behaviour and feedback from their surroundings, in this case, parents and teachers. The more positive a child’s attitude, the more positive the connections and growth they make, which can lead to excellence in performance. Gail Hugman is a teaching and learning expert at Lessons Alive (www.lessonsalive.com) and author of 100 Things to Learn Before You’re 10, plus the soon to be published Making the Pennies Drop – Helping your Child Build Skills. Available from Amazon.
UptonHouse HouseSchool School Upton Upton House School Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is
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Upton House School Upton UptonHouse House School School
excellent pastoral care, Upton House children and 2-11 years. for boysblossom and girls aged pastoral Upton children blossom have a zest life, continually learning and developing their abilities, havefor acare, zest for life,House continually learning andand developing their interests and talents. We pride ourselves on developing for life, continually learning developing their abilities, Based in the heart ofand Windsor, Upton House isand high abilities, interests and talents. With high academic standards, calibre staff and ex With high academic standards, high calibre staff excellent confident andNursery, happy with a love learning. a thriving Pre-Prep and Prep School interests and talents. We children pride ourselves onof developing pastoral care, Upton House children blossom and have pastoral Upton House children blossom and a zest Wecare, believe that self-esteem happiness are paramount Based Based in the in the heart heart of ofand Windsor, Windsor, Upton Upton House House is have is to for boys and girlsfor aged years. life,2-11 continually learning and developing their abili confident and happy children with aand love ofSchool learning. each child’s success, and we pride ourselves on developing a thriving a thriving Nursery, Nursery, Pre-Prep Pre-Prep and Prep Prep School
for life, continually learning and developing their abilities, interests and talents. We pride ourselves on develop confi dent and happy with a years. love of learning. for for boys boys and andchildren girls girls aged aged 2-11 2-11 years. Withand high talents. academic standards, high calibreand staff and developing excellent confident happy children with a love of learnin interests We pride ourselves on Call 01753 pastoral care, Upton House children and have a zest Our enhanced curriculum is862610 rich blossom withor cross-curricular With With highhigh academic academic standards, standards, high high calibre calibre staff and excellent and excellent confident and happy children a staff love learning. email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk forinnovations life, continually learning and with developing theirof abilities, digital and our pioneering live-streamed events pastoral pastoral care, care, Upton Upton House House children children blossom blossom and and have have a zest a zest Call 01753 862610 or interests and talents. We pride ourselves on developing run by our Broadcasting Club share our activities with our for life, for life, continually continually learning learning and anddeveloping developing theirtheir abilities, abilities, email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk 01753 862610 or confident and happy a loveCall of learning. globalchildren family with online. interests interests andand talents. talents.We We pride prideourselves ourselves on developing on developing email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk confident confident and and happy happy children children with with a love a love of learning. of learning. A proven track record with outstanding scholarship
Join us for the journey success each year.
Call 01753 862610 or Callfor 01753 862610 or Join us the journey email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk Join us for the journey Call Call01753 01753 862610 862610 or or email email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk
Join us for the journey Join usus for journey Join Join us for forthe the thejourney journey www.uptonhouse.org.uk IAPS Independent Prep School NACE Accredited School
editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
Families Thames Valley East
9
EDUCATION
Packaging learning By Zuzu Jordan Benjamin Franklin’s famous quote ‘tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember; involve me and I learn’ captures the essence behind true learning. This may be why encouraging your own child to WANT to sit down to learn can feel like an impossible task at times, with parents often questioning how their child is able to sit, concentrate and learn at school. Covid lockdowns thrust homeschooling onto families. Parents had to take on the role of teachers, experiencing the complexities surrounding learning, while children faced the need to respond differently to their parents as teachers.
Computer games. The settings and characters in welldeveloped computer games are designed to entice children. This can be good for enhancing creative writing skills.
Being in a classroom in a school setting, rather than at home, helps children grasp that a different set of rules apply. In fact, in schools, they conform simply because the majority do - children are excellent at policing each other!
Emailing experts. Consider setting your child up with an email address so that they can email an ‘expert” in a chosen topic to find out more. For example, if they are learning about volcanoes, they could email a vocanologist.
There has been a rise in the number of families who choose to homeschool, many of whom have developed effective strategies to create a learning environment at home. Whether you want to homeschool, support homework or just nurture a love for learning, a deep dive into the working mind of a child can offer ways to package learning.
Book and movie comparison. Turn a movie session into a learning opportunity. Watch the film and then read the book or vice versa. Compare their similarities and differences. Reading dogs. There’s a lot of research that suggests that children’s reading improves if they read to pets. It’s as simple as that!
Understanding that learning is something that occurs through experiences or acquiring knowledge and skills, we can usefully engineer situations and scenarios to facilitate this. These techniques can package learning as inviting and exciting.
Treasure hunts. Children love finding things. Plant words, numbers, sentences, objects and questions around the house and send children to find them.
Use toys. This applies for children of all ages. For example, Nerf guns are great at firing at answers to times table questions or spelling. Scrabble tiles are also fantastic for practising spelling. Foam letters or numbers in the bath are fun for both spelling and maths questions.
Board games. A lot of learning can come out of playing board games. Create your own board game linked to your chosen topic. Current issues - whether environmental, social or political. Find something that your child is passionate about. Write letters, research, devise fundraising events.
Go into the wild. There’s so much learning to be done in the great outdoors: making rain gauges, following maps, gardening, studying wildlife and classification.
Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths specialist who has taught primary aged children for sixteen years and is interested in early years and home learning. For free homework and home learning resources, find the Facebook page Edumateuk.
Question of the week. To encourage independent thinking, at the start of the week pose a question which doesn’t have an obvious answer. For example: ‘Who built the strongest buildings - Romans or Saxons?’ Developing curiosity in children is key to packaging learning.
MP Advert Maidenhead 85x87 (JAN 2024) print 3mm bleed.pdf
LEA NURSERY SCHOOL WE PLAY - WE LEARN- WE SUCCEED
Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Maidenhead
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EYFS Curriculum based education for children aged 2-4
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JOIN OUR FAMILY Wexham Rd, Slough SL2 5JW LeaNurserySchoolWexhamSlough www.lea-nursery.slough.sch.uk
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07762 252755 manager@monkeypuzzlemaidenhead.co.uk monkeypuzzlemaidenhead.co.uk
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
1
01/02/2
CO-EDUCATIONAL | AGES 4-18 DAY SCHOOL IN SURREY
A SCHOOL THAT IGNITES THEIR CURIOSITY. Education should be lifelong, not lesson-long. At ACS Egham, we furnish children’s innate curiosity with the creative and analytical tools to succeed at university and beyond - ready for what the world needs next.
International Baccalaureate through school Extensive busing in Surrey, Berkshire & West London Bursaries available
JOIN US FOR AN OPEN DAY OR PERSONAL TOUR: VISIT ACS-SCHOOLS.COM/EGHAM editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761 Families Valley East 11 OR CONTACT OUR ADMISSIONS TEAM AT EGHAMADMISSIONS@ACS-SCHOOLS.COM / +44Thames (0) 1784 430611
EDUCATION
St Bernard's Preparatory School Inspiring Curious Minds....
Open Days Thursday 9th May 9am-11am Thursday 9th May 5-7pm Or call 01753 521 821 for a personal tour
7th Best Prep School in England Sunday Times Parent Power www.stbernardsprep.org 12 Families Thames Valley East
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
EDUCATION
Asha Verma from St. Bernard’s Preparatory School Asha Verma is the Head of St. Bernard’s Preparatory School in Slough. Here she talks to Families about the school ethos, how it has evolved over the last few years and what makes a great teacher! Tell us a bit about yourself? My name is Asha Verma and I have recently been promoted to Head of St Bernard’s Preparatory School. I am extremely proud of the school and I tell prospective parents that I can tell them everything they need to know, as my own two children attended the school! I had a previous career in finance and only started my teaching journey in my 30‘s when my children were young, which was challenging. However, I soon discovered I loved the classroom environment, gained my teaching qualifications and early last year was promoted to Head. How would you describe ‘The St Bernard’s School’ ethos? Our parents tell us we are like an extended family, nurturing their children in a warm and friendly environment. As a Catholic School we celebrate the Catholic faith, whilst also embracing all other faiths within our diverse community. This inclusive approach underpins our ethos, helping to create tolerance, understanding and respect for all. Beyond the spiritual aspect, our school is unashamedly committed to academic excellence, encouraging every child to reach their full potential. We also acknowledge and value achievements beyond the classroom, celebrating accomplishments in areas such as sports, music, and all other extracurricular activities which help enrich our school life. How has St Bernard’s Prep evolved over the years and what have been the highlights? The school was founded in 1897 by a group of Bernardine nuns. Over the decades there has been a transformation in the religious composition of our community. What was once predominantly Catholic has now evolved editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
into a rich tapestry of different faiths. This shift has contributed to the creation of a diverse and dynamic environment, where children and parents alike, learn about different cultures and traditions from one another. Professionally speaking, one of my proudest highlights as Head is the acknowledgment of our school’s excellence. Last year, we were ranked as the 7th Best Prep School in the UK by The Sunday Times Parent Power. This recognition, driven by our outstanding academic achievements, is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our exceptional staff. Their commitment is clearly reflected in our rating of ‘Excellent in All Areas’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate. What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? I find immense joy in working with young people and watching them learn, play and interact with their friends. Many of our children join us in nursery and it is rewarding to see them grow both personally and intellectually, knowing myself and my dedicated staff have played such a vital role in their development. What are the qualities of a great teacher? Teachers need many skills - the ability to think on their feet, flexibility, enthusiasm, good classroom management and being able to provide constructive feedback. But for me, the quality a teacher needs most is a passion for their subject that inspires children and helps them to develop their own love of learning. How do you think education will evolve over the next 5 years? Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire! This quote, which
is attributed to Yeats, to me sums up what education is truly about and I don’t believe that will change. However, what will change is how we educate with the use of Technology and AI and the establishment of new programmes promoting good mental health, wellbeing and diversity. I have been a teacher for 14 years and I have seen many changes during this time, but I still primarily see my job as producing well rounded individuals, who are ready to take their next step in their education journey. Do you have any top tips for parents when they are considering a school for their child? Once you have short listed your schools it is vital you, and your child then visit the schools in person when teaching is in session. Parents and children have different needs and expectations and schools are all quite different. Parents who visit us talk about our warm, friendly atmosphere, where the children are respectful, kind and genuinely happy. We often talk about a special ‘tingle’ at our school and once you step inside, you will know if the school is for you. I wish all those reading the best of luck in their search for the right school and would welcome you to join us here at St Bernard’s for an open day or personal tour, or both! For more information contact: St Bernard’s Preparatory School, Hawtrey Close, Slough, SL1 1TB. admissions@stbernardsprep.org 01753 521821 www.stbernardsprep.org
Families Thames Valley East 13
EDUCATION
Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) By Usha Patel
Those with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) have normal hearing but constantly mishear what is said. Whilst APD is neurological in nature and may be inherited or stem from developmental problems, research shows that early childhood ear infections can be a significant contributory factor. Children develop critical language skills between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, when the brain learns to map out and store sounds for language processing. When a child starts reacting to words with a smile or starts speaking their first words, they are effectively associating these sounds with meanings. If a child suffers from constant middle ear infections during this critical period, the ability to process language and speech can be affected. Sounds which normally become imprinted in the brain’s memory and language centres are not properly established. The mishearing happens because the brain recognises aural information differently from what the child actually hears. For example, when children can’t differentiate between thirteen and thirty. Whilst hearing can be perfectly normal, the brain just cannot process those sounds correctly due to their similarity. This inability of the brain to accurately process what is heard results in the Auditory Processing Disorder condition (APD). APD is often difficult to diagnose in children as they may have other learning difficulties such as dyslexia, attention deficit disorder or dyspraxia (DCD), which may mask the condition. It also cannot be diagnosed with standard hearing tests; it requires specialist audiology testing.
Children with APD have also been observed to: Have trouble paying attention to and remembering information presented orally; Have problems carrying out multi-step directions and need more time; Misunderstand what is said and ask for instructions to be repeated; Have language difficulty and language delay (eg they confuse syllable sequences and have problems developing vocabulary and understanding language); Appear to have behaviour problems, often because they are not complying with given instructions; Have difficulties retrieving spellings because they struggle to remember the sounds. The Raviv Practice London (www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk) offers a structured language programme for APD called Fast ForWord (FFW), a computer based learning programme based on twenty five years of research. FFW can be used anywhere in the UK. Screen your child with a FREE questionnaire at www.bit.ly/AuditoryProcessingQ
Helping your child at home Minimise background noise and speak face to face so your child can watch your lips while you talk. This gives them visual cues for how you say things; Provide simple, short instructions. Note that children ages 2 to 4 can only hold two pieces of information in their brain at one time; Allow extra time for your child to process information and ask what they understood; Always ask your child to repeat mispronounced words - in a fun way; Bedtime audio books help with following stories and engaging with auditory material; Children are often tired at the end of the school day and it’s exhausting listening to specific information through competing background sounds; Understand that when phonics are in place, your child may not be able to ‘blend’ sounds with ease and may need more practice; Show your child’s school the completed questionnaire at www.bit.ly/AuditoryProcessingQ
14 Families Thames Valley East
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
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editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
Families Thames Valley East 15
EASTER HOLIDAYS
Easter Holiday Fun With two weeks to fill during the Easter holidays, we’ve picked out some of our favourite family friendly activities to help pass the time. We cover everything from Easter egg hunts to family shows as well as a few Children’s camps. Happy planning! BCA Zoo run family zoo days on the last Saturday of each month from March until September. Book a 3-hour morning or afternoon slot and explore at your own pace. Keeper talks and animal feeds run throughout the day. Burchetts Green SL6 6QR https://zoo.bca.ac.uk Beale Park wildlife park and gardens offer daily school holiday activities: meet the bugs, pedaloes, giant inflatable slide and all the usual attractions. Lower Basildon, RG8 9NW www.bealepark.org.uk Blenheim Palace has an Easter Eggstravaganza taking place Friday 29 March to Monday April 1. Hop along to the Walled Garden to enjoy a whole host of egg-citing activities! Woodstock OX20 1PP www.blenheimpalace.com Feeling ready to brave some watersports this Easter holiday? Try hiring boats, paddleboards, canoes and more at Dinton Pastures, Bray Lake or Taplow Lake. Your children may discover a new skill and love for the outdoors. Also look out for Bray Lake’s range of children’s camp activities. www.braylake.com/activities www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/boat-hire www.taplowlakeside.co.uk Take a swim at Braywick Leisure Centre or join the roller disco. Or if it’s crazy golf you’re interested in, Maidenhead Mini Golf located at Braywick park boosts 18 holes of Dinosaur themed mini-golf. Maidenhead SL6 1BN www.leisurefocus.org.uk/our-centres/braywick-leisure-centre www.maidenheadminigolf.co.uk Claires Court Holiday Club provides age-specific groups with a dedicated multi-activity programme from sports to coding, bushcraft to kayaking. Their club is open to all children from Year 1 to Year 6. There are some activites, which are marked as Kool Xtra or River Xtra, that are open to Year 8. Run by Claires Court staff and qualified playworkers, you can be assured of a very high standard of provision. The Holiday Club is run from the safe confines of their Juniors site, the perfect leafy and spacious setting for fun and adventure. www.clairescourt.com/holiday-club/how-to-book Why not spend Easter weekend at the Chiltern Open Air Museum. Learn about Easter traditions, follow an Easter trail and see their 3D exhibition. Gorelands Ln, Chalfont St Peter HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk If tennis is on your child’s hit list, why not try Delgado Tennis which is on at Braywick Leisure Centre this Easter. Whether you are an absolute beginner or a budding superstar, the camps will give your children the opportunity to improve their tennis, while having lots of fun. Braywick Rd, SL6 1BN www.delgadotennis.co.uk Jump In Adventure and Trampoline Park Slough is the perfect way to bounce off some energy! There are a range of new attractions such as Augmented Reality trampolines with a 16 Families Thames Valley East
balloon-popping game and reaction walls along the main court. The Airena is a new air-tracked multi-sports pitch where you can challenge your friends to a game. Younger bouncers get the run of the park during Toddler Takeover sessions, ages 1-6. Ages 4+ can enjoy Open Jump, or party in a cool night club atmosphere during After Dark sessions. 550 Dundee Rd, Slough SL1 4LE www.gojumpin.com/trampoline-park-slough Legoland Windsor Resort reopens for the season on Friday March 15. There’s plenty on offer for the whole family to enjoy, plus the resort is now home to the world’s first LEGO® themed indoor golf experience ‘fore’ the whole family – with 4 different LEGO® themed courses to master. Adventure golf incurs a separate charge so you can add it to your day at the park or just visit without entering the rest of the resort. Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY www.legoland.co.uk www.legoland.co.uk/explore/adventure-golf There are plenty of great National Trust places to visit within an hour’s drive. Clivedon, Basildon Park, Grey’s Court, Hughenden, Stowe, The Vyne and Waddesdon are all favourites with us. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Odds Farm Park’s annual Easter event ‘Spring on the Farm’ will run from Friday March 29 to April 14. Enjoy all their usual activities throughout the day too. Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, Wooburn Green HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk A trip to a museum makes a great day out, especially if the weather is not onside. Some of our favourites are listed here! The Story Museum’s immersive exhibitions and workshops are a great way to celebrate a love of stories and adventure in Oxford, OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk Oxford University Museum of Natural History OX1 3PW, www.oumnh.ox.ac.uk and Roald Dahl Museum and Story centre, Great Missenden HP16 0AL www.roalddahlmuseum.org are also great for the holidays. The River and Rowing museum’s 3D Wind in the Willows experience has always been a firm favourite with our younger children! Henley-on-Thames RG9 1BF https://rrm.co.uk We all love a park visit and with warmer weather hopefully on the way, why not pack a picnic and make a day of it. There are so many to choose from but these are just a few on our list: Boulter’s Lock and Ray Mill Island, Maidenhead SL6 8PE. Black Park, Denham Country Park and Langley Park all offer adventure playgrounds and plenty of space to run around in or climb trees, as well as cafes for refreshments. https://countryparks.buckscc.gov.uk. If you’re looking for adventure in the trees, Go Ape Black Park has plenty to offer too. SL3 6DS www.goape.co.uk Dinton Pastures Country Park, much like Black Park, has a scenic walk round the lake, woodland to explore and an impressive adventure playground. Hurst RG10 0TH www.dinton-pastures.co.uk. Windsor Great Park, wander through the deer park, visit the 100 foot Totem Pole at Virginia Water lake, or clamber over the rocks by the copper horse at the top of The Long Walk. www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk From Friday March 29 to Saturday April 13, Quest Family Fest at Norden Farm offers 2 weeks of creative adventures, shows, films and workshops to keep kids busy. Don’t forget to book for their Explore day on Friday March 29 - A full day of taster workshops for children and families. Norden Farm Centre for the Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
EASTER CLUBS & HOLIDAYS CLASSES
Discovery Centre with over 90 activities which children of all ages can enjoy and learn from. They also have an extensive outdoor playground and there are some great cycle trails too. Bracknell, RG12 7QW www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/leisure-services/look-out-discoverycentre
Don’t forg e to check o t ur What’s on pages too !
Ultimate Activity Camps provide Ofsted regulated Easter and summer activity day camps for 4–14-year-olds. Access a range of exciting activities whether these be in the art room, the sports hall, playing fields or in the woods. Local venues include LVS, Ascot and St Bernard’s Prep, Slough. www.ultimateactivity.co.uk Arts, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org Children and teenagers can make friends, have fun and develop some great new skills at Stagecoach Holiday Drama Clubs and Workshops. Their holiday workshops are designed for six to 18-year-olds, with some areas offering workshops for kids aged four to six. At the end of their workshops, the students will join together to showcase their new-found singing, acting and dancing skills to family and friends. Find out your nearest school and camps they offer: www.stagecoach.co.uk/holidayworkshops A family show is a great way to spend an afternoon together. Our favourite venues to visit with smaller children are Norden Farm in Maidenhead SL6 4PF ww.nordenfarm.org and Wycombe Swan HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk The Ocean Theatre Company has a showing of Chicago at the BritVic Theatre in Ascot from Friday 5 to Sunday April 7. SL5 8DR www.oceantheatre.com Our What’s on pages have more details of shows this holiday. Visit the science exhibition at The Lookout
Join in the fun at Wellington Country Park this Easter. Beautifully rural yet easily accessible, this is a great place to spend your holiday for a fun-filled day during their Easter Eggstravaganza. All of the Easter events at Welly Park are included in your admission fee. Odiham RG7 1SP www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk If you have an advantage card, entry to Windsor Castle is free. Don’t forget the advantage card also offers discounts at certain restaurants so you could combine a day out with a family meal. Check out the Pug yard learning centre too for some Easter activities. SL4 1NJ. www.rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre is running ‘Eggsplore’ this Easter from Tuesday 2 to Thursday April 3. The whole family can search wild woodland and muddy meadows for egg-laying creatures. Crack a mystery to win a tasty chocolate egg. There is also an Easter Wildlife Day Camp at the centre on Monday April 8 for 8–12-year-olds. This runs from 9.30am-3pm and costs £35. www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts presents
QUEST Family Fest
Fri 29 March - Sat 13 April 2024 Explore your way through two weeks of creative adventures as we bring stories to life!
01628 788997 nordenfarm.org
@nordenfarm /nordenfarm
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF
editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
Families Thames Valley East 17
WHAT’S ON
What’s on Ongoing Mondays in March and April Well Baby Clinic Riverside Children’s Centre, Maidenhead SL6 7JB Also: Tuesdays: The Manor Family Hub, Windsor SL4 3HD Thursdays: Datchet Children’s Centre, SL3 9EJ (SatNav SL3 9ER) Fridays: Boyn Grove Library, Courthouse Road, Maidenhead, SL6 6JE First Wednesday of the month: Ascot Durning Library, High Street, Ascot, SL5 7JF https://rbwm.afcinfo.org.uk/events Nurture Groups (birth to 12 months) Riverside Children’s Centre, Maidenhead SL6 7JB Also: Wednesdays: The Manor Family Hub, Windsor SL4 3HD Fridays: Datchet Children’s Centre, SL3 9EJ (SatNav SL3 9ER) https://rbwm.afcinfo.org.uk/events
Until Spring 2024 Brilli-ANT: How someone small changed a big story The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP Travel through anthill tunnels, searching for clues and stories! www.storymuseum.org.uk
March
Friday March 1 Big Chick Knit Alexander Devine Children's Hospice Buy a knitted chick and chocolate egg. All profits support the hospice which looks after children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions. www.alexanderdevine.org/chicks
Saturday 2 and Sunday March 3 Maidenhead’s Big Read Weekend Maidenhead Library Theme: Set back in time www.maidenheads-big-read.org.uk/whatson
Sunday March 3 The Farmer and the Clown The Story Museum, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP Non-verbal adaptation. 11am & 2.30pm £12 www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on There was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Fly Kenton Theatre, Henley-on-Thames RG9 2BS 50th anniversary production. 2.30pm www.kentontheatre.co.uk/event/there-was-anold-lady-who-swallowed-a-fly
Monday 4 and Monday March 18 Mini Mondays Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver SL0 0EB Theme: Wind Don’t forget to book car parking ticket 10am-12pm on 4th and 12.30-2.30pm on 18th. 2-5 yrs www.iverenvironmentcentre.org
18 Families Thames Valley East
Please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.
Event times and dates do change, please try and check that an event is still going ahead before you head out. Young and Teen Rangers Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre SL4 2BY Young Rangers 8-11 years; 2-4pm Teen Rangers 11-17 years; 10am-12.30pm www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Saturday March 9 Preschool Adventures with Alice Coworth Flexlands School, Chertsey Road, Chobham GU24 8TE FREE community event for 2-5 years with an Alice in Wonderland inspired theme 10am-12 noon. Places are limited. Advanced booking necessary www.coworthflexlands.co.uk/admissions/ preschool-adventures-with-alice
Wednesday 27 to Saturday March 30 The Wizard of Oz The Kenton Theatre, 19 New St,Henley-onThames, RG9 2BS www.kentontheatre.co.uk
City of Stories The Story Museum, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP Fantastical history of Oxford. For families. www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on
Friday March 29 Explore Day Norden Farm Centre for the Arts Maidenhead, SL6 4PF Full day of taster workshops for children and families. www.nordenfarm.org
Suitcase Stories The Story Museum, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP £9 Early years www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on
Friday March 29 to Monday April 1
Sunday March 10 Spot’s Birthday Party South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA www.southhillpark.org.uk/shp-events/spotsbirthday-party
Friday 15 or Monday March 18
Easter Weekend Gorelands Ln, Chalfont St Peter HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk/events/easter-events
Friday March 29 to Friday April 12
Nature Tots Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre SL4 2BY Pre-school fun outdoors. 10am www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Quest Family Fest Norden Farm Centre for the Arts Maidenhead, SL6 4PF 2 weeks of creative adventures including workshops, films and shows. www.nordenfarm.org
Saturday March 16 Lucy’s Let’s Tell a Story The Story Museum, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP £9 Early years www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on
Friday March 29 to Sunday April 14
Young and Teen Rangers Woolley Firs, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ Young Rangers 8-11 years; 10am-12pm Teen Rangers 11-17 years; 1-3pm www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Friday 22 or Monday March 25
Bluey Kew Gardens TW9 3AE Bluey, the loveable blue-heeler puppy and her family arrive at Kew for family friendly activities inspired by the show. www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/bluey Spring on the Farm Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk
Friday March 29 to September 29
Nature Tots Woolley Firs, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ Pre-school fun outdoors 10am Fri, 10am and 12.30pm Monday www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Saturday March 23
Boat Hire Dinton Pastures Activity Centre, Sandford Lane, Hurst RG10 0SU Pedalos, Kayaks, Paddleboards and Canoes (check website for availability over the Easter to Summer period) www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/boat-hire
Saturday March 30
All Hands on Deck Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver SL0 0EB Volunteering day 10am-2pm Ages: 14+ (under 16s MUST be accompanied by an adult) www.iverenvironmentcentre.org
Easter Family Fun Day Grenfell Park, Maidenhead FREE event 11am-3pm www.maidenheadbridgerotary.org.uk/ easterfunday
There was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell, RG12 7PA www.southhillpark.org.uk Comic Club The Story Museum, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP £12 www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on
Eggstravaganza Blenheim Palace, Woodstock OX20 1PP www.blenheimpalace.com
Saturday March 30 to Sunday April 14 Easter Egg-splorers Windsor Castle, Pug Yard Learning Centre Free with entry to the castle. 9.30am-3.30pm. Castle closed Tuesday and Wednesdays. www.rct.uk/whatson
Don't forget to say you saw these events listed in Families Thames Valley East magazine! Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
HEALTH
April Monday April 1 to Tuesday April 16 Easter Eggstravaganza Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Risely RG7 1SP www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk/whats-on/ easter-eggstravaganza
Tuesday 2 to Thursday April 3 Easter Trail Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre SL4 2BY Search for wildlife's exciting eggs and crack the egg mystery. 10am-2pm (last entry 1pm) Age 4-12. £8 per child. www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Wednesday April 3 Mark Tompson’s Spectacular Science The Kenton Theatre, 19 New St,Henley-onThames, RG9 2BS Age 3-8. www.kentontheatre.co.uk
Thursday 4 to Saturday April 13 English National Ballet and English National Ballet School present My First Ballet: Swan Lake Peacock Theatre WC2A 2HT Experience the thrill of the world’s most famous ballet with your little ones, in this specially adapted version for children aged three upwards. www.ballet.org.uk/myfirstballet
Friday 5 to Sunday April 7 Chicago BritVic theatre, Ascot SL5 8DR www.oceantheatre.com
Saturday April 6 The Museum of Marvellous Things The Kenton Theatre, 19 New St,Henley-onThames, RG9 2BS Age 3-8. www.kentontheatre.co.uk
Monday April 8 Easter Wildlife Day Camp Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre SL4 2BY 8-12 year olds. Fully supervised by trained staff, without the need for parental supervision. 9.30am-3pm. £35 www.bbowt.org.uk/events Goldilocks - Ballet The Kenton Theatre, 19 New St, Henley-onThames, RG9 2BS www.kentontheatre.co.uk
Tuesday April 9 Milkshake Live Theatre Royal Windsor, 32 Thames Street, Windsor SL4 1PS www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk
Tuesday 9 and Wednesday April 10 Nick Sharatt’s Drawalong Norden Farm Centre for the Arts Maidenhead, SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org
Tuesday 9 to Thursday April 11 Story Explorer Courses The Story Museum, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP £44 per day. Age 8-12. www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
Wednesday April 10 Drop Off Day Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver SL0 0EB 10am-4pm 7-11 years Cost: £40 (£35 for additional sibling) www.iverenvironmentcentre.org
Thursday April 11 Family Fun Day Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver SL0 0EB 10am-12.30pm or 1.30-4pm 3-11 years www.iverenvironmentcentre.org In the Dead of the Night Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF Family-friendly show www.nordenfarm.org The Sooty Show - 75th Birthday Spectacular! Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe, HP11 2XE www.trafalgartickets.com/wycombe-swantheatre
Friday April 12 Olaf Falafel’s Super Stupid Show Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF Family-friendly comedy www.nordenfarm.org
Friday 12 or Monday April 15 Nature Tots Windsor Great Park Environmental Centre SL4 2BY Pre-school fun outdoors 10am www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Saturday April 13 Suitcase Stories The Story Museum, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP £9 Early years www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on
Friday 19 and Monday April 22 Nature Tots Woolley Firs, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ Pre-school fun outdoors 10am www.bbowt.org.uk/events
Sunday April 21 St George’s Day Fair Clewer Memorial Recreation Ground (The Pirate Ship) Windsor SL4 5BD 12-4pm. Free entry. www.cleweranddedworth.co.uk
Tuesday April 23 to Thursday April 25 Zog and the Flying Doctors Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe, HP11 2XE www.trafalgartickets.com/wycombe-swantheatre
Saturday April 27 Lucy’s Let’s Tell a Story The Story Museum, Pembroke Street, Oxford, OX1 1BP £9 Early years www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on All Hands on Deck Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver SL0 0EB Volunteering day 10am-2pm Ages: 14+ (under 16s MUST be accompanied by an adult) www.iverenvironmentcentre.org
Upcoming
Saturday 8 and Sunday June 9 The Little Welly Obstacle Course & Festival Culden Faw Meadows Henley-on-Thames RG9 3AQ www.thelittlewelly.co.uk
Monday 15 and Monday April 29 Mini Mondays Iver Environment Centre, Slough Road, Iver SL0 0EB Theme: April Showers Don’t forget to book car parking ticket 10am-12pm on 15th and 12.30-2.30pm on 29th. 2-5 yrs www.iverenvironmentcentre.org
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OUTDOORS
A year of nature activities By Catherine Hughes and Becky Goddard-Hill The impact of nature on wellbeing is well documented and getting children outside is proven to boost both their physical and mental health. But how do you incentivise them with different, exciting, low cost and eco-friendly outdoor activities all year round? Think crafts, science experiments, scavenger hunts, beach and camping games and so much more. Here a just few nature activities you may want to take with you to liven up your next outdoor adventures as a family. WHAT’S IN THE BAG? Pop an object or two in your backpack as you walk and have the rest of your group ask questions to try and guess what it is. You can tell them the first letter of the object and they get ten questions to ask about it - to which you can only answer ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Will they work it out or will you have to tell them? Best not to take anything too heavy or it will feel like a long walk! MAKE A LEAF WAND At the start of your walk find a long, slim but strong stick. As you walk, thread on the best leaves that you find. You might want to go for all large leaves or all orange leaves or maybe a mix. Encourage every member of your family to do the same – you’ll be surprised how different all your wands look. On your return, arrange your leaf wands into a vase for a beautiful display.
THREE FUN NATURE CHALLENGES For each challenge, make sure you agree on a ‘base’ before you start. Find five stones, then bring them back to base and see if you can use them to build a tower that doesn’t fall over. Choose a marker such as a particular tree. Balance your paper cup on your head and walk to the marker, then try walking back to base without the cup falling off your head. Find some twigs, bring them back to base and use them to form the first letter of your name (or your whole name if you want a bigger challenge).
If you have a neighbour or older relative who doesn’t get out much, consider gifting them a leaf wand to bring a bit of nature’s treasure into their home. Catherine Hughes and Becky Goddard-Hill are co-authors of A Year of Nature Walks and Games, a book packed full of ideas to keep kids entertained in the great outdoors all year long. It features crafts, science experiments, scavenger hunts, beach and camping games plus lots and lots of ideas on how to make the great outdoors inspiring. Available from good book stores and online retailers.
LETTER OBSERVATION GAME Each person chooses a letter from the alphabet and tries to spot things beginning with that letter, as they walk. Tally up how many you things you find and see who spots the most. Because this can be tricky for younger children, it is fine to use descriptive words too so if you have chosen B for example, you could say ‘blue sky’ or ‘big tree.’ Or just ‘bench’ if everyone’s ready for a sit-down rest! You may want to specify that each descriptive word can only be used once, as well as taking a notebook to keep track of your spots. 20 Families Thames Valley East
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
BOOK CLUB This month at Families, Rachel Bailey talks to Sue Hendra cocreator of the Supertato series which has now sold a whopping 2.6 million copies and is in its second series on CBeebies. This year is the tenth anniversary of the well-loved pre-school books and the brandnew adventure Supertato: Eviltato vs Superpea is out now.
When my children were young, we were big fans of Barry the Fish with Fingers! What first inspired you to write about food-based heroes and villains? My favourite thing about the job that I do, is that I draw something, listen very closely, and get to find out what it has to say. It’s very interesting and if you like writing stories which I definitely do, rather inspiring. It’s true, there are a lot of chatty food items in the books that Paul and I create. Are we obsessed with food? Possibly, but I would have thought that most people would want to find out where fish fingers actually come from or to realise that all peas, when allowed to ‘go bad’ are deeply evil. This is important stuff! Which is your favourite book/character that you’ve written? I have a big soft spot for ’Alan the Bear’ who stars in a picture book called ‘I need a wee’ and also some Lift the flap board books that we really loved making. Don’t we all crave living in the moment, and prioritising fun over being sensible? Well, I do! Unlike me though, Alan always seems to get away with it. I suppose all I can do is continue to glean pleasure living life vicariously through that cheeky little knitted bear.
WIN
Is there a vegetable or food that you haven’t written about yet that you have your sights set on? Always. No edible substance is safe. We need to get to the truth; we need to be looking and listening very closely to find out what food stuffs have stories that need to be told! Don’t worry, I’m on it. Is there a book/series that you wish you’d illustrated/written? Oh, my goodness yes, so so many. It’s a lot easier though now that my daughter is 14. When she was little and I spent a lot of time reading picture books, I was almost paralysingly in awe of the wonderful writers and illustrators that filled her bookshelves. I really can’t afford to be though! There are important stories about superhero potatoes that absolutely need to be made. With that in mind I’ve locked all the brilliantly written and illustrated books in a cupboard so I can be blissfully unaware of their obvious superiority.
tricky to see the brighter side, that’s why I often choose funny stories to make and to read. It’s great to take a break from real life and immerse oneself in another world where you can have a good giggle with some fictional friends. Why do you think Supertato has struck such a chord with young readers and families? Well, the Supermarket is a city, a melting pot, a lot of stories play out within its walls. It’s got good, evil, friendship, silliness, peril, adventure and a lot of terrible puns. I think it’s the puns, the puns have got to be the secret to its success. Supertato: Eviltato Vs Superpea is available in paperback priced £7.99. www.supertatoandfriends.com X: @suehendra
Is humour the most important ingredient in a picture book? Not necessarily, I think it depends on the book and what you need from it when you pick it up. Personally, though, I think humour and finding the funny side of things is a superpower and a very important ingredient to put in a picture book. Sometimes life isn’t very funny and it’s
Families have a complete set of the Supertato books to give away! For your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to editor@familiestveast.co.uk What’s the name of the new Supertato book? A Evilpea Vs Supertato B Eviltato Vs Superpea C Potatoes and Peas Closing date for entries is 1 May 2024 editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
Families Thames Valley East 21
PARENTING
Is gaming truly a villain? By Dr Amit Sra and Vivek Behi According to a recent survey, a staggering ninety one percent of children ages 3 to 15 play video games on a device.* This gives rise to concerns about potential gaming addiction, the impact on children’s social skills and the presence of seemingly violent or inappropriate content, all of which contribute to parents’ unease about their children’s gaming behaviours. But what if we challenged the notion that gaming is the villain? In our view, there are often-overlooked advantages of gaming for children. Here are some of the key benefits for young minds and some guidance for parents on ensuring a safe and enjoyable gaming experience. Despite the common perception of gaming as a mere pastime, recent research underscores the significant impact of strategic and puzzle-solving games on cognitive functions. By enhancing problem-solving, critical thinking and spatial awareness, these games are more than entertainment. They actively stimulate creativity and imagination, with many titles encouraging players to construct their own virtual realms and narratives. These activities lead to cognitive advantages that translate into reallife problem-solving and creative thinking, providing a mental exercise with practical applications. With the rise of online multiplayer games, our children have the opportunity to interact and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds. Many video games involve multiplayer modes or online communities, enabling social interaction and collaboration. Engaging with others in a virtual environment can help children develop social skills, teamwork and a sense of camaraderie,
while being part of gaming communities can create a sense of belonging for children, especially those who may feel isolated in other aspects of their lives. Despite the benefits, protecting your child’s online experiences is a top priority as a parent. Creating a secure and enjoyable gaming environment for your kids is crucial to them gaining from the advantages. Like films, games come with age ratings. The Pan European Game Information (PEGI) system provides detailed age ratings to help parents determine the suitability of a video game for their child. As long as parents ensure children are engaging responsibly, gaming can be more than a hobby. It serves as a valuable avenue for children to learn, develop and forge connections in today’s digital landscape. Dr Sra and Mr Behl are owners of the youth esports arena Valhallan (www.valhallan.com), which offers a secure and nurturing environment in which children can foster their love of gaming.
Further gaming benefits
Tips for in-game purchases
Video games often receive criticism for their perceived impact on our children’s mental health but the reality is that their influence on child development is frequently misunderstood.
In numerous games, it is now typical to find in-app purchases and microtransactions. It is essential to initiate open and positive conversations with your child regarding responsible spending in these gaming scenarios. Prompt them to grasp the significance of money and recognise the possible repercussions of unauthorised in-game purchases.
Beyond mere entertainment, gaming is a powerful training tool for a range of essential skills. Engaging in virtual adventures or competitive game challenges provides children with a unique opportunity to relax and develop emotional resilience. Immersive gameplay allows children to escape momentarily from real-life pressures and challenges, providing a sense of relaxation and escapism. Certain video games often include objectives and rewards, teaching children the value of setting goals and working towards them, while achieving in-game milestones can boost self-esteem and motivation. Some games go a step further by offering players a chance to improve their emotional regulation and decision-making skills in high-pressure situations; skills that easily transfer to real-life scenarios. In essence, gaming provides a constructive way for your child to relieve stress, giving them space to unwind and acquire coping skills that will be significant for their overall personal development. 22 Families Thames Valley East
Establish boundaries on their spending over specific periods and emphasise the importance of seeking permission before making any purchases. This approach ensures that gaming remains an enjoyable and educational experience while instilling vital financial lessons to safeguard against unforeseen expenses. As well as discussing responsible spending with your child, educate them on the concept of virtual economies within games. Explain how in-game currencies work and the importance of distinguishing between virtual and real-world money. Emphasise the satisfaction of patience and earning rewards through gameplay rather than resorting to instant purchases. By instilling these values, you empower your child to make informed decisions, fostering financial responsibility and enhancing their overall gaming experience.
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham
PARENTING
Facing tween challenges By Tanith Carey No longer a child but not yet a teenager; 8-to-12-year-olds change quickly. The result is that parents face lots of shifts, including their tween wanting more privacy and independence. None of these will feel as daunting once you know the developmental reasons and see the world through your tween’s eyes. Take this common real-life scenario: Your tween says: ‘Dad said I could’. Scenario: Your partner goes against your rules and lets your tween play video games on a school night, sparking a row when you get home. What your tween’s thinking: ‘I’ve worked out that dad is laxer about gaming, so I’m taking advantage. I know mum will be angry but for now, all I care about is more screentime. However, when my parents disagree, I feel I’m to blame. When they contradict each other, it makes me feel unsafe and like the grown-ups don’t have a clue.’ What you might be thinking: If you’ve worked hard to maintain this boundary, you may conclude that your partner doesn’t respect how hard it is to stick to these rules. You may also be angry that being so lax will mean your tween will now want to play video games every school night, making your job harder. You may also resent your child for taking advantage. How you could respond: Before saying anything, take a few deep breaths to help you calm down. Once you feel ready, speak to your co-parent out of your child’s earshot and agree on a united front to jointly give notice to your child that it’s time
to wind down their game. Update your child: ‘Sometimes Dad and I do things differently but now we both agree it’s bedtime.’ After your tween is asleep, keep talking to your co-parent. Keep an open mind, rather than going on the attack. For instance, is gaming their way of connecting and having fun with your child? Could there be slightly different rules on the nights when they are in charge? Keep in mind too that parenting is about teamwork, which requires different strengths. The most important thing is that you both stay consistent to what you each decide and don’t undermine each other in front of your child. Tanith Carey is co-author with Dr Angharad Rudkin of a new handbook for tween parents What’s my Tween Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents, available now from www.bookshop.org
Keep Out
All my friends have a phone
Scenario: Your tween has put a sign on the door saying: Keep out!
Scenario: Your tween pleads for a smartphone because ‘all their friends’ have one.
What your tween’s thinking: ‘My room is no longer just a place to sleep and keep my toys. Now I want more time to think, I want it to be my kingdom where I can have privacy and also use it to show off some of my developing interests.’
What’s your tween’s thinking: ‘Not all my friends do but I’ll tell my parents that anyway so they’ll think they’re being unfair.’
What you might be thinking: You may struggle to take this new boundary seriously and worry the sign is going to be a red flag to any siblings who will see it as a challenge. How you could respond: Tweens are using ‘magical thinking’: a belief that if they think something, it will happen and the sign really will stop people coming in without permission. As far as possible, respect their wishes and start knocking if they ask you to. See it as part of their personal development and how they choose to decorate their door as a guide to their developing interests.
editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761
What you might be thinking: While you may believe they’re too young to have access to such a vast online world, their request may tap into your fears they’ll get left out by their peers. How you could respond: Acknowledge their wish and explain that you understand while standing firm: ‘I know a phone would make you feel grown-up but I want you to grow up experiencing life in the real world first.’ As your child gets older, you could also compromise by letting them use an old family phone or tablet that you ALL access and only in the common areas of your home, after homework. Never in bedrooms. Make it a rule your child can only post to closed groups of school friends and family, not in public forums. Families Thames Valley East 23
Ocean Theatre Company proudly presents
Book by Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse Music by John Kander Lyrics by Fred Ebb
Based on the play by Maurine Dallas Watkins Script adaptation by David Thompson
APRIL 5 - 7 th
th
BritVic Theatre
book at:
FIND OUT MORE
LVS Ascot
www.oceantheatre.com
This amateur production of CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk
Classes held Every Saturday 2.00 p.m. Maidenhead Club Furze Platt Leisure Centre 101 Furze Platt Road Maidenhead SL6 7NQ
24 Families Thames Valley East
Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham