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IN THIS ISSUE

Education Christmas What’s On Issue 135 November/December 2024 editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley East

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Your place is here To learn more about our weekly Forest School, our “Big Question” based curriculum and our inclusive approach to sport, visit us at www.clairescourt.com

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Families Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

In this issue 4-5 6 8 9 10 11

NEWS & INFORMATION EDUCATION The case for debating Keeping tweens reading Supporting a child with maths anxiety Getting to grips with handwriting HEALTH The connection between fussy eating and neurodiversity

CONTENTS ...endless ideas for families of young children in

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From the editors...

So It’s just round the corner now; Christmas, that hectic but wonderful time of the year! To help you plan, we have put together a four-page guide on pages 14-17. We take a look at ‘Where to visit’ to make the most of all the festivities, whether they are days out, shows, where to find Father Christmas or twinkly ice-skating venues!

There are also some great articles to read in this issue. Education is always high on our list and on page 6 you can read: ‘The case for debating’, on page 8: ‘Keeping tweens reading’, on page 9: ‘Supporting a child with maths anxiety’ and on page 10: ‘Getting to grips with handwriting’. Our health section 12 PARENTING looksfor at ‘The child safe advertisement Please findTeaching below ayour proof of your the connection between fussy eating and neurodiversity’ on page 11 and parenting looks at ‘Teaching your child safe body boundaries’ on page 12. body boundaries

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NEWS AND INFORMATION

The Marist School, Ascot welcomes a new Head of Pre-Prep The Marist School, Ascot are delighted to welcome Lisa Chapman, joining as Head of Pre-Prep. Lisa joins from Bishopsgate where she was Head of EYFS and Head of Lower School.

New look Kindergarten at St George’s School, Windsor Kindergarten at St George’s School Windsor Castle underwent a significant transformation this summer, with an entirely new look unveiled at the start of the academic year. After first combining two rooms into one extensive, light and airy space, calming neutral colours and natural materials were combined to create a stimulating learning environment for free-flow exploration and discovery.

Aligned to the central principles of the school’s International Baccalaureate curriculum, the design encourages children to nurture their own curiosity and develop agency over their learning. By bringing elements of the outdoors in, including a large indoor sandpit, the space also caters for a range of individual learning styles and interests.

In addition to their bespoke new space, Kindergarten children at St George’s benefit from access to the school’s wider facilities. This includes highly-qualified specialist teaching in French, music, digital learning, PE and swimming in the school’s indoor pool, as well as nature walks in the private grounds of Windsor Castle.

“Stepping into the role of Head of Pre-Prep at The Marist fills me with an unparalleled sense of excitement and gratitude. It's not just a position; it's an invitation to be part of this vibrant community, set in 55 acres of woodland, dedicated to nurturing young minds. I am eager to contribute to the rich tapestry of educational excellence that defines The Marist.

With a shared commitment to fostering holistic growth and providing a nurturing environment, I can’t wait to collaborate with colleagues and parents alike, shaping the future of our Marist children together. It is a heartfelt privilege to play a role in shaping the bright futures of our youngest learners within such a welcoming and esteemed community”.

For more information email admissions@themarist.com or visit www.themarist.com/admissions/open-events

The school has also recently been awarded the Eco-schools Green Flag with distinction for the second year running.

The prestigious award is for exceptional work in promoting sustainability and raising environmental awareness amongst peers.

For more information visit www.eco-schools.org.uk or www.stgwindsor.org

Alarming number of children using AI for their homework A quarter of pupils use ChatGPT and other AI tools to help with their schooling according to recent research from the online safety group, Internet Matters.

The research was based on a survey of two thousand parents of children ages 4-17 and one thousand children ages 9-17.

The study showed that of those using AI more than half of pupils are using the tools to complete teacher assignments or homework. However, the research also found that sixty percent of schools have not spoken to pupils about the appropriate use of AI. Experts say neither educators nor the government has kept up with the exponential increase in the use of AI technology among pupils. They are calling for new guidance so that pupils are operating on a ‘level playing field.’

More info: www.internetmatters.org

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Families Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

NEWS AND INFORMATION

Sharing behaviour may relate to counting skills

Choose Respect during AntiBullying Week 2024

Young children who are good with numbers are more likely to share valued items with friends.

Anti-Bullying Week runs from 11 to 15 November this year, with the theme ‘Choose Respect.’

Researchers from universities across the US conducted the groundbreaking research and concluded in a study published in the Child Development Journal that counting skills were the single biggest predictor of ‘fair sharing behaviour’ among childen ages 3 to 5.

The Anti-Bullying Alliance chose this theme following consultation with teachers and pupils who wanted a theme that empowered them to do something positive to counter the harm and hurt caused by bullying.

The findings suggest one of the reasons some youngsters struggle to share is because their counting skills are still developing.

The week will kick off with Odd Socks Day on Tuesday 12 November, during which adults and children wear odd socks to celebrate our uniqueness.

Study author Dr Nadia Chernyak said: ‘This is the first research to investigate whether symbolic counting exerts a causal impact on sharing behaviour. We reasoned that children who do not share fairly would benefit from the modelling of proper counting behaviours thereby providing them with a behavioural tool that would facilitate fair sharing.’

Following the success of the campaign in 2023, when eighty percent of schools marked the week, therefore reaching over 7.5 million children and young people, Anti-Bullying Week reminds everyone that we can bring an end to bullying.

More info: www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk

More info: www.neurosciencenews.com

Bed-sharing not psychologically harmful Parental bed-sharing is unlikely to impact children's psychological development, new research has found.

The study from the University of Essex looked at nearly seventeen thousand British babies and tracked them for eleven years. It found kids who shared beds were happy and healthy with no association between bed-sharing at 9 months and childhood emotional or behavioural problems.

Some experts previously thought bed-sharing negatively affected children's development whilst others held the view that it helps as parents and children are nearby for feeding and if they wake in the night.

Dr Bilgin said: ‘Parents can rest assured that as long as it's practiced safely, bed-sharing is unlikely to have any negative impact on children's emotional and behavioural development.’

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More info: www.essex.ac.uk/news editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Families Thames Valley East

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EDUCATION

The case for debating

By Erin Miller As an English teacher, I am convinced that one of the most worthwhile educational activities that young people can experience is live debating. From primary to secondary, live debating provides a platform like no other where young people can build public speaking and critical thinking skills.

And they always end up building their confidence and having fun whilst doing it!

Debating generally follows the following formula. There are two teams of around three people: affirmative and negative/ proposition and opposition. Firstly of course, there must be a motion. Each side speaks for around three minutes, during which time the opposing team can offer ‘points of information,’ which can be questions or statements to which the speaker must respond.

The motion is a statement to which the teams agree or disagree. For example: ‘this house believes keeping pets is fair to animals.’ Choosing a motion can be tricky as care must be taken to select a motion which ensures both sides will have substantial opportunities to respond.

It’s not only the motion that inspires the children, it’s also the energy of the teamwork and competition.

Cultivating an interest in debating for your child could also lead to curiosity about how debating is structured in Oxford Union debates, the Houses of Parliament and the United Nations.

Debating is a fundamental part of our democracy in operation; whilst it can get fiery at times, it teaches children how to argue their points in a civilised and pragmatic manner.

The beauty of debating is that it catapults children into worlds of knowledge they may otherwise not encounter. There are the age-old debates: is school uniform necessary, should zoos exist and even, if the children are an appropriate age, should we allow capital punishment?

Fostering general knowledge, research skills, teamwork and structuring arguments… I could write so much about the educational and social benefits of debating. Perhaps most importantly, debating fosters the skill of evaluation, because to evaluate an idea is to look at it from all perspectives, which is essential to all critical thinking.

But debating also gives children the opportunity to research and understand current world affairs. I’ve seen children do wonders with motions which initially seemed a little dull, so topics that may not traditionally appeal to children can actually work well.

Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.

Join us at one of our open events to discover more about our inspiring all-girls’ education.

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7

EDUCATION

Keeping tweens reading

By Tanith Carey Does it feel like you’re fighting a losing battle maintaining your tween’s interest in reading? Does your child always seem more interested in the quick fix of screens than books?

It’s understandable that parents worry. The human brain is wired for novelty and the bright lights and quick rewards of going online can feel immediately gratifying.

But it’s worth persevering. Books are a key way to help your child feel happier and less stressed. A National Literacy Trust survey found that keen readers between the age of 8 and 13 are three times more likely to have higher levels of mental well-being, compared to those who don’t engage with books at all. With books, kids learn to concentrate for longer and improve emotional intelligence as they empathise with the characters.

by helping children recognise how screens and books make them feel different.

In a largely digital world, what’s a modern parent to do? As is often the case, part of the answer lies in taking action before your child hits tweenhood.

As an example, help your child notice how immersive video gaming makes them feel tense and jumpy. Then notice how curling up with a good book and being able to take in information at their own pace makes them feel calmer. Role model book reading yourself and talk about how it makes YOU feel.

For ages 2 to 5, try limiting tech learning games to just ONE of your child’s many play options. Consciously cut down the digital babysitters because pre-schoolers need to develop their reading brains first.

Make phone-free family time a treat rather than deprivation.

For example, hold a phone amnesty where you ALL go to a café for a hot chocolate with your favourite books for half an hour’s reading.

After that, help kids become ‘bilingual.’ This means providing text both on screen AND on the printed page. Point out the difference between accessing information quickly online and deep, concentrated book-reading. Show them how to do both side by side.

When kids realise how good books can make them feel and how they bond you together, it marks the start of a life-long habit.

As a Gestalt psychotherapist-in-training – which focuses on experience in the body – one of my favourite ways to do this is

Tips for reading with younger children

Engaging tweens further with reading

Don’t rush them. Just because children are able to sound out words, it doesn’t mean they can understand the meaning of the whole sentence. If children don’t really get what’s happening in a book, they can get bored and turn off reading early. Resist the temptation to get caught up in the class reading race over who’s on the most advanced Biff and Chip book.

Let them choose. While it’s tempting to encourage your children to read the classics you loved when you were little, let your child follow their own interests and get excited about a new book, whether it’s from the library or a bookshop. At the start of every school holiday, make a special visit to let your kids pick out their own. Looking forward to this trip and giving them a choice will make them more invested.

Read WITH them. Once children are able to read fairly fluently around age 7, it’s easy to assume you can leave it to them. But according to the Kids and Family Reading Report, which surveyed over one thousand parents and their children, only thirty seven percent of parents of children ages 6 to 8 still read them bedtime stories.

This is despite the fact that children miss this ‘special’ time of the day with parents and they still reap huge benefits in understanding, vocabulary and engagement. A nightly reading session also sets up reading in their minds as a regular and relaxing habit.

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‘All my friends have a phone!’ is one of the 75 real world scenarios tackled in What’s my Tween Thinking? Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents, by Tanith Carey with Dr Angharad Rudkin, published by DK books.

Families Thames Valley East

Go exploring together. Thanks to the internet, our children have never read more words or had access to more experiences. They can now browse through hundreds of websites and search any subject that interests them in seconds. In fact, research has found that the average person now reads as many as 100,000 words a day: about thirty four gigabytes a day across their various devices.

Don’t just leave them to it. Do some research to find out more about the subjects in a recent book that has interested them.

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

EDUCATION

Supporting a child with maths anxiety

By Catherine Loble and Lisa Wander From buying a kilo of apples to paying a restaurant bill or making savings, maths is a fact of life. However, many people see maths as a hard and often confusing subject. This can lead to maths fear or anxiety. In children, this can significantly impact their academic performance and overall confidence.

Understanding the causes and implementing supportive strategies can help parents effectively assist their children in overcoming this fear.

Maths anxiety is a worry or fear that can be brought on by maths problems, tests or even thinking about numbers. Estimates suggest that up to a quarter of children experience at least some maths anxiety, often lasting into adulthood. Negativity, fear and anxiety towards the subject block any motivation to practise in order to learn and access the skills they need to progress.

big factor in maths anxiety is a child’s ‘math self-concept,’ in other words, their confidence in their ability to tackle a maths problem.

Maths anxiety can begin in early childhood. For others, it can arise a little later when lessons become more challenging and complex. Some children develop maths anxiety because they have not mastered the foundational skills. It is hard to master fractions for example, if you do not yet have a grasp on whole numbers.

Changing the way we think about numbers and remembering that our relationship with maths can grow and alter over time can positively impact our self-confidence. Children should be set goals which feel achievable, to help them maintain motivation while overcoming anxiety.

Evidence states that girls tend to experience maths anxiety more than boys. This seems to be the case at both primary and secondary school levels. That is not because boys are naturally better at crunching numbers, experts explain. ‘There’s this societal stereotype that math is a masculine domain and a lot of women incorporate that idea’ says Molly Jameson, PhD, an educational psychologist at the University of Northern Colorado.

That belief can fuel maths anxiety. Her research shows that one

By understanding the causes of maths anxiety and implementing supportive strategies, parents can play a crucial role in helping their children develop a positive relationship with maths.

Finally, encouragement, patience and a focus on understanding can transform maths from a source of fear to an opportunity for growth and success.

Lisa and Catherine are co-founders of Emparenting (www.emparenting.co.uk), supporting children, parents and families with the insights, skills and tools needed to nurture the development and well-being of the next generation.

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EDUCATION

Getting to grips with handwriting

By Zuzu Jordan In an age where screens and voice automated systems are at our fingertips, it can be hard to convince children of the importance of handwriting. Yet the National Curriculum states that children need to learn to hold a pencil correctly and form letters, starting and finishing in the right place. Children should learn to write with speed and fluency, ensuring their writing is legible.

Everyday playtime activities can help your child develop their fine motor skills, such as threading beads, playdough and 3D modelling, using tweezers to pick up small objects. Ahead of writing, children practise mark making by using any object such as a paint brush, feather or stick. Learning how to draw straight, curved and zig zagged lines is a great stepping stone to writing legible letters.

Being shown how to hold a pencil correctly from the beginning helps prevent bad habits from creeping in. Children must ‘pinch’ the pencil with their thumb and forefinger and tuck the other three fingers underneath. Using a pencil grip can help children who struggle or ask your child to hold a coin with the three ‘tucked in’ fingers. This will demonstrate the required tripod position.

A good sitting position is crucial too. Children should sit in the middle of the chair, feet firmly on the ground and close enough to the table that they don’t need to stretch.

Probably the most valuable piece of information when teaching handwriting is understanding which letters belong to which handwriting families.

Tall letters: b, d, f, h, k, l, t.

Explain that these are referred to as tall letters because they must be significantly taller than all the other letters except capital letters.

Short letters a, c, e, i, m, n, o, r, s, u, v, w, x, z.

All these letters must be the same height and half the size of the capital letters and tall letters.

Tail letters: g, j, p, q, y.

These letters must reach below the line that they are sitting on.

Capital letters All sit on the line and are all larger than every other letter.

Zuzu is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for 18 years and is director of Arnett International. For free resources and tips, find her on Instagram edumate_uk

Fine and gross motor skills

Left handed children

So what is the difference between fine and gross motor skills? Fine motor skills use smaller muscles, mainly in the hands and wrists. These are for precise movements such as cutting, writing and teeth-brushing. Gross motor skills require the whole body to move using the larger muscles, as in walking, jumping, throwing and swimming.

Being left handed raises unique challenges. If your child is left handed, you may wish to try a few of these strategies to help them thrive.

Usually we are mindful of the significant milestones in our babies and toddlers because medical professionals ask us. As children grow, these goals change but are equally important for their development.

Encourage a pencil grip which is comfortable with pencil held slightly below the tip and the hand resting below the writing line to prevent smudging.

Many parents organically provide opportunities for their children to enhance both their fine and gross motor skills. For example, taking them to the park is an easy and free way of helping them develop those larger muscles and many toys have been designed to help with the development of smaller muscles. Tasks such as buttoning and zipping can be easily included into a daily routine. Ultimately, consistency, positive reinforcement and age-appropriate activities are the key to effective development over time.

10 Families Thames Valley East

Teach your child to tilt the paper slightly to the right so they can fully see what they are writing or drawing.

Consider pens that do not smudge easily and left handed tools such as scissors with reversed blades.

Ask your child’s teacher if they can sit on the left side of the desk to prevent them bumping into a right handed neighbour.

Utilise videos on the internet created to help with any challenges.

Finally, remember not to label left handedness as a problem; instead celebrate it as a unique trait.

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

HEALTH

The connection between fussy eating and neurodiversity

By Ellie Malt Short phases of fussy eating and avoiding new foods are very common in childhood. But if your child’s picky eating persists, it could be a sign of a neurodiverse brain type such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or attention deficit disorder (ADHD).

Understanding the connections between neurodiversity and eating problems can help you decide what to do.

Constipation. For a neurodiverse child, it’s likely gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms will have been present from birth. A very recent ₁ study highlighted how children eventually diagnosed with ASD are five times more likely to have had feeding difficulties as babies. Although surveys on GI symptoms in children with ASD and ADHD are inconsistent, ₂ one study of one hundred and twenty children with ASD found nearly all of them had constipation. The pain of regular constipation can lead to negative associations with eating.

predictability and comfort.

The gut. Children with neurodiversity are more likely to have guts with structural differences. These can be a reduced ability to push food through (a slow gut) or a reduced ability of the intestine wall to keep food away from the rest of₃ the body (a leaky gut). A study by microbiologists in the US has suggested children with ASD and ADHD may also have differences in the types of bacteria in their gut, leading to altered immune responses.

Executive function. When children become overwhelmed by their senses, the brain shuts down executive functioning, reducing self-control. With ADHD, they might be too distracted to enjoy eating or to finish their food. To sustain interest, they may be drawn to food choices that deliver instant gratification, favouring sugary snacks. Hyperactivity can also affect their ability to sit at a table and focus on eating. Studies have found impaired executive function among patients with eating disorders.

Food intolerances. There is growing anecdotal evidence indicating that children with ASD and ADHD are more likely to have lactose and casein intolerances (both found in dairy products) and gluten intolerances. Despite a lack of large-scale studies in this area, a small survey of parents of autistic children in England showed that a fifth had tried a gluten and/or milk free diet and a majority of these parents reported significant improvements in various aspects of their child’s wellbeing.

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID). ARFID, a recognised eating disorder, is characterised by extremely selective eating habits without an underlying medical condition. ₄ A study of six hundred children in Sweden with ARFID is one of the most recent to have highlighted the overlap between eating disorders and neurodiverse conditions including tic disorder, ADHD and ASD.

Interoception. Kids with ASD or ADHD often have a different experience of discomfort. Altered interoception, the sense of the internal state of the body, can make it difficult to recognise hunger and fullness, leading to irregular eating patterns.

Sensory processing. Children with ASD or ADHD feel overloaded by sensory stimuli. A heightened sensory awareness to texture, taste and smell can make certain foods intolerable, leading to a more restricted diet with a preference for

Sensitivity to sound. Sensitivity to the sound of eating (misophonia), is characterised by strong reactions to specific sounds, such as chewing or swallowing. Children with neurodivergence are more likely to experience sensitivity to these sounds, making mealtimes stressful and unpleasant. This can lead them to avoid eating certain textures or eating in social settings.

Ellie is a writer and mum of two daughters living in Surrey.

Sources 1. Feeding Behaviors in Infants and Toddlers Later Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2024 2. Gastrointestinal Dysfunction in Autism: Parental Report, Clinical Evaluation, and Associated Factors, Autism Research, Volume 5, Issue 2, 2012 3. The Gut Microbiome in Autism, American Society Microbiology 2021, 4. Neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions in 600 Swedish Children with the ARFID phenotype. PMC, 2024

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JOIN OUR FAMILY Wexham Rd, Slough SL2 5JW LeaNurserySchoolWexhamSlough www.lea-nursery.slough.sch.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Families Thames Valley East

11

PARENTING

Teaching your child safe body boundaries

By Rachel Coler Mulholland One of the biggest challenges parents face is how to both define and communicate body boundaries to their young children.

Naturally we want our children to be in the safest of hands, always. We interview and shortlist the individuals we trust enough to provide primary care when we are not available.

The next step is a boundary discussion with our children: ‘if a person is caring for you, they will care for you appropriately, help you wipe if necessary, take care to make sure you are comfortable and report any injuries or issues to me immediately’.

We have all heard horror stories of children being mistreated by carers. However, asking our children to establish or maintain their own boundaries when they are quite young (under age 6) is both unreasonable and potentially harmful.

If a child fell and injured their penis in the playground but have been told that ‘no one but mummy can check their privates,’ they may fail to tell their primary carer and delay necessary treatment.

For children of this age, their bodies are neutral: to them, their penis is not much different from their thumb. If they hurt their thumb, they would tell a grown-up and within limits, it should be the same for their private parts.

The protection that parents can offer for young children comes from careful due diligence when choosing care providers and from normalising discussions about bodies and the ways they are treated daily.

12 Families Thames Valley East

Making conversation about their body should be as normal as reporting what they had for lunch. ‘Did you have a good day at daycare? Great! What was for snack? That’s wonderful! Did you get to use the big kid potties today or did you stay in the classroom? Ooooh, big kid potty, well done! Did anyone have to help you?’

As children get older, they can learn more about developing and maintaining their own boundaries. Around age 6 children have a solid grasp of the concept of privacy and understand that people have different thoughts, feelings and beliefs from theirs.

They can understand that their body is for them to understand and explore; not for anyone else.

Rachel is a qualified mental health practitioner who has provided mental health skills training for children. Her debut book The Birds, the Bees, and the Elephant in the Room Talking to Your Kids About Sex & Other Sensitive Topics (Union Square & Co) is now available from www.bookshop.org

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

SEASONAL

A Winter Wonderland

By Gemma Hunt

As the song goes: ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year….’ Whilst you may like the idea of walking in a winter wonderland, with the nights drawing in and the weather that bit chillier, the temptation to stay indoors is strong. But getting outside is so good for you and your little ones. Getting a good lungful of fresh air, embracing the nature around you, whilst getting some exercise and burning off pent up energy will do you all the world of good.

But before you open the front door and take that first step into the winter air, there are some things you may want to bear in mind!

Get active

Whilst adding more layers is helpful when you start to feel the chill, doing some exercise will warm you up from the inside out. Whether it’s doing some star jumps, dancing around or if it’s not slippery underfoot, challenging the children to a running race. Get the heart pumping and you’ll be feeling warmer again in no time.

Wrap up warm

Make sure you and your children are wrapped up nice and warm before heading out into the chilly winter air. Dressing in plenty of layers is always the best idea as they can be added or removed, depending on how your child is feeling. Don’t forget a hat to keep heads warm and a pair of gloves or mittens for chilly hands.

Waterproof and wellies

Winter walks can be mucky walks but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Get your waterproofs and wellies on and have some fun finding those muddy puddles and having a good jump around in them.

Snacks at the ready

Don’t forget to pack some snacks and perhaps a flask of warming hot chocolate for your outdoor adventures this winter. These can help give your little ones the energy and motivation to get outside.

Help other children to enjoy the great outdoors

As an ambassador for The Outdoor Guide Foundation’s (TOG) Waterproof & Wellies campaign, I’m helping to raise funds to provide all state primary schools in the country with at least ten sets of waterproof jackets, trousers and wellies so that those children who cannot afford outdoor clothes can play outside. Interested? You can support the campaign too at www.theoutdoorguidefoundation. org.

Be prepared

If spending hours outdoors sound a bit much to start with, head to a local park or woods nearby, rather than going too far afield and feeling like you have to stay a long while to justify the journey.

No matter what time of year you’re off out and for what length of time, check the weather forecast so you can be prepared. Have a change of clothes, wet weather gear, a spare pair of shoes and, if you are travelling by car, some blankets in the boot for afterwards.

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Have fun!

There are loads of fun activities you can do outside in the winter time. Whether it’s building a snowman or making snow angels on a snow day, constructing a twig or fallen branch den, gathering fallen leaves, seeds and other items to make mandalas on the ground or perhaps a scavenger hunt or geocaching, you’ll be glad you did go out for that walk after all!

Gemma Hunt is a television presenter from Songs of Praise and CBeebies, proud Ambassador of The Outdoor Guide (TOG) Foundation, as well as an accomplished children’s author and Confident Communication Coach.

She is available to host children’s pirate parties and live events and festivals with her one-woman pirate show.

For more information, visit www.gemmahunt.com

Families Thames Valley East 13

CHRISTMAS

Where to visit this With Christmas just around the corner and the excitement in our houses building, we’ve put together our pick of the best Christmas days out, shows, where to find the big man himself in the local area and ice rinks. Don’t forget to book ahead to avoid disappointment.

CHRISTMAS DAYS OUT National Trust properties always capture the Christmas magic!

This year Basildon Park pays tribute to classic Christmas films.

Starting from Saturday 16 November, immerse yourself in decorations inspired by these films and enjoy a wonderland of beautifully adorned trees, garlands, and twinkling fairy lights both inside and out.

Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading, RG8 9NR https://bit.ly/48Ir12I Christmas at Kew is a great way to get into the festive spirit.

Discover glittering tunnels of light, dancing lakeside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour. Don’t forget to look for a glimpse of Father Christmas as you wander beneath the largerthan-life illuminations. Wednesday 13 November to Sunday 5 January. Timed entry slots from 4.20pm. Gardens close at 10pm.

Selected dates.

Royal Botanic gardens Kew, Richmond, TW9 3AB www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/christmas Christmas at Waddesdon is back on from Friday 15 November to Sunday 5 January (Wednesday-Sundays). This Christmas, be spirited away to a fantastical wonderland at Waddesdon Manor, a fairy-tale château in Buckinghamshire. There is a new festive theme of Sleeping Beauty in the house and a new light trail in the gardens to enchant and delight! Don’t miss the Christmas fayre which runs up till 22 December. Here you can soak up the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas with hand-selected stalls all housed in charming wooden chalets, surrounded by twinkling trees.

Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/christmas Christmas Lights Switch On Events Maidenhead Town Centre’s event is on Saturday 23 November, along with the festive market.

Clewer and Dedworth Christmas fair and light switch on is on Sunday 24 November at the Pirate Park.

Windsor’s switch on is Saturday 16 November along with carols and festivities.

Eton’s light switch on is on Thursday 14 November and Marlow’s is Thursday 21 November.

Celebrate a Nordic Christmas at Hughenden from Monday 25 November. Find the enchantment of long winters being celebrated with warm light amongst the beauty of nature. With references to Norse Gods, fairytales, and traditions of the Arctic and Nordic regions in both the manor and garden. Outside, the adventure continues with a Nordic fairy tale, family trail.

Hughenden Manor, Hughenden, HP14 4LA https://bit.ly/3zBYP4S Step back in time and enjoy a Festive Weekend at the Chiltern Open Air Museum which is on Saturday 7 December and Sunday 8 December. Meet costumed folk in the buildings and see how they decorated and celebrated Christmas. Plus, make festive candles, listen to festive stories or join in with children’s craft activities.

Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Ln, Chalfont St Peter, HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk/events/festive-weekend Norden Farm's annual community Lantern Parade is a joyful gathering of local people showcasing weird and wonderful lantern creations set to fabulous live music; come along with a lantern of your own to help light up the centre of Maidenhead.

This year it will be held on Saturday 7 December. The parade will begin at Maidenhead Town Hall at 4.30pm, then process through the town. The Town Crier, Chris Brown, and special guests will kick off the celebrations on Norden Farm's stage outside the Town Hall. This year the theme is Our Animal Neighbours - if you wish, you can attend a workshop to create your own lantern - dates and venues to be confirmed.

Maidenhead Town Hall, St Ives Rd, SL6 1RF www.nordenfarm.org There will be lots of festive scenes hidden in Miniland at the Legoland Windsor Resort this Christmas. Plus live entertainment, characters to meet, a selection of rides and attractions available for the whole family to enjoy as well as activities and LEGO builds to keep little elves entertained. From Saturday 23 November. For an extra cost, guests can add on a visit to Father Christmas’s Cabin (subject to availability).

Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY www.legoland.co.uk/explore/special-events/legoland-atchristmas From Saturday 16 November to Sunday 5 January why not take a guided open top night bus tour of London’s Christmas Lights.

See the best festive light displays the city has to offer.

Tours depart from Coventry Street, W1D 6BH. 4.30-8.30pm https://bit.ly/3ZPn5ZW

14 Families Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

CHRISTMAS A popular trip out at this time of year is Odds Farm’s Christmas Cracker which runs on selected dates from Saturday 30 November to Tuesday 24 December. Guests will set off on a magical winter wonderland stroll to the North Pole, where they will visit Mrs Claus’ kitchen, the North Pole Post Office and the Elf town square before journeying to meet Father Christmas for a special one-to-one meeting in his Grotto. Once little ones are with the main man himself, they can tell him all their Christmas wishes and have their photo taken as a magical Christmas keepsake. Families then head to the Elves’ workshop, where children can make their own soft toy bear to cuddle and take home. Next stop is a visit to the Christmas Toyshop, where younger guests can also choose their main gift (included in price) from Father Christmas. There is also a festive line-up of interactive entertainment for Odds’ guests to enjoy with interactive Elf Shows and there will be Christmas-themed crafts including the opportunity to make reindeer food, write a letter to Father Christmas, and see the magical ‘Tree by Twinklelight’ while our Acapella penguins will also be back to sing in the festive season. Not forgetting all the usual fun and attractions on the farm!

Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, Wooburn Green, HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk/christmas-cracker Reading Winter Wonderland kicks off on Saturday 9 November and runs till Sunday 5 January. Enjoy rides and attractions, Santa’s Grotto with personalised gifts, an ice rink, German beer and more.

Hills Meadow, George Street, Reading, RG4 8DH www.readingwinterwonderland.co.uk Experience the festive season at the Southbank Centre with spectacular shows, luminous art, activities and a wondrous winter market. Friday 1 November to Sunday 5 January.

Southbank Centre Square, SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk/events/winter

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THE CARNIVAL OF THE ANIMALS OUR ANIMAL NEIGHBOURS

In the heart of Wellington Country Park, an illuminated kingdom awaits your family this winter. Wellington Illuminova is running from Friday 22 November to Monday 23 December.

Wellington Country Park, Riseley, Berkshire, RG7 1SP www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk The Christmas sparkle continues at Windsor Great Park Illuminated which goes live on Friday 15 November and is open until Saturday January 4.

Nr The Savill Garden, Englefield Green, Egham, TW20 0U www.windsorilluminated.com Located in the heart of London's Hyde Park, Winter Wonderland has plenty to offer. From ice skating and circus shows to roller coaster rides, street food stalls, festive bars and live music, there’s something for everyone. Open from Thursday 21 November to Sunday 5 January 10am-10pm. Mornings are great for families, where you can enjoy Winter Wonderland at a leisurely pace. Pre-booking is essential.

Hyde Park, W1K 7TY www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

CHRISTMAS SHOWS Aladdin, starring Vernon Kay, is on from Friday 13 December to Sunday 5 January at Wycombe’s Swan. Take a magic carpet ride to Wycombe Swan this Christmas and enjoy the spectacular pantomime adventure Aladdin! With a dazzling brandnew digital set using LED screens with animated scenes and mesmerising effects plus all of the usual ingredients you would expect to see for a truly memorable pantomime.

Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk

Christmas at Norden Farm Norden Farm and Stuff & Nonsense Theatre Company present

Saturday 7 December

4.30pm Live music and dancing from Dhol and brass band Ronak Mela Baja 5pm

Parade departs, along with our huge friendly puppet Nordenia and music from Ronak Mela Baja

5.45pm - 6.15pm Live music and entertainment continues

Get parade ready by joining us at a Lantern Making workshops for adults and children!

Directed by Niki McCretton

Tuesday 26 November - Saturday 28 December Tickets From £14

Centre for the Arts Maidenhead

@nordenfarm nordenfarm.org

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Book workshops here!

Centre for the Arts Maidenhead

For Ages 3+ Years

01628 788997 nordenfarm.org

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF

Families Thames Valley East 15

CHRISTMAS Catch Cinderella at the Braywick Leisure Centre! Performances run Thursday 14 to Sunday 24 December. Will Cinders escape the cutches of her ugly stepsisters and live happily ever after?

The Bayliss Theatre, Braywick Leisure Centre, Maidenhead, SL6 1BN www.maidenheadpanto.co.uk

Christmas at Odds Farm Park

Join The Theatre Royal Windsor between Friday 22 November to Sunday 12 January for a traditional panto performance of Dick Whittington.

Theatre Royal Windsor 32 Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1PS www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Norden Farm are delighted to announce that their Christmas show this year will be Pinnochio brought by Stuff and Nonsense.

Their adaptation of Pinocchio combines classic elements of the story – a poor woodcarver, the tell-tale growing nose, the dream of becoming a real boy – with their hallmark hilarity, skilled puppetry, original music, fantastic staging, outstanding performers and extraordinary physical tricks. On select days between Tuesday 26 November and Tuesday 28 December.

Suitable for ages 3+.

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events The Santa Show is on Saturday 21 and Monday 23 December.

It's Christmas Eve in the North Pole and Mrs Clause is making final preparations to Santa’s sleigh before a crisis strikes! Will the children be able to help Santa save the day? A short, live stage show featuring songs and audience interaction, plus a small gift from Santa’s workshop.

Recommended for ages 2+.

Braywick Leisure Centre, Braywick Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1BN www.dk-pro.co.uk/whats-on

WHERE TO FIND FATHER CHRISTMAS Join Crocus at Dorney Court for a magical breakfast with Father Christmas on Saturdays and Sundays 7, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22 and 23 December. Enjoy a delicious breakfast before the elves take the children to meet Santa. Children will have a chat about their Christmas wish and there will be an opportunity to have a photo with Santa and then he will present them with a small gift. Children will also receive a ‘decorate your own’ gingerbread biscuit.

Court Ln, Dorney, Windsor, SL4 6QP www.crocus.co.uk/dorney-court Daniel Department Store is transformed into a winter wonderland and Santa returns to his Grotto this year. Running between Saturday 16 November to Tuesday 24 December, bring all of the family along to experience the magic of Christmas

and be sure to tell Santa what you would like for Christmas this year... as long as you’ve been good of course! £15 per ticket and includes a gift.

Daniel Department Store, 120-124 Peascod Street, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 1DP www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on Santa's Grotto is an exciting festive experience at Dobbies Garden Centre, Hare Hatch and this year they’ve made it even more interactive. Select dates from Monday 25 November to Tuesday 24 December. This year they are offering a Little Seedlings train-themed journey for children and families, complete with interactive elements and a meeting with Santa himself. Take in the atmosphere as you arrive at their enchanting forest, and after a warm welcome from the elves at Sleighbell Station, children will get to experience snowy scenes, spot woodland characters, find hidden nutcrackers, all culminating in the chance to meet Santa. Children are encouraged to share their excitement, wishes and stories before receiving their gift.

Look out for other festive events from Dobbies too!

Floral Mile, Hare Hatch, Twyford, RG10 9SW www.dobbies.com/events This year, Santa and his reindeer are pulling up their sleigh and he’s inviting you and your little ones to share in the magic of Christmas at Dorney Lake for breakfast on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 December. Children will receive a visit and gift from Santa, festive table activities, and a breakfast of their choice Dorney Lake, Dorney, SL4 6FJ www.dorneylake.co.uk/breakfast-with-santa Meet Father Christmas in his magical grotto at the Legoland Windsor Resort where he has a special LEGO® gift waiting for each child. Booking is essential and entry to the resort must be purchased separately. With live entertainment, characters to meet and a selection of rides and attractions there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. From Saturday 23 November (subject to availability).

Winkfield Road, Windsor, SL4 4AY www.legoland.co.uk/explore/special-events/legoland-atchristmas Walk through the sparkling enchanted woodland to meet Father Christmas at Odds Farm’s Christmas Cracker for a special one-to-one meeting in his Grotto, where littles ones can be sure to tell him all their Christmas wishes. Families can then head to the ‘Cuddle Creation’ in the Elves’ workshop, where children can make their own soft toy bear. Event runs on selected dates from Saturday 30 November to Tuesday 24 December.

Wooburn Common, Wooburn Green, HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk/christmas-cracker Come along for breakfast and meet Father Christmas at Stubbings Café, Maidenhead. At 8am they will be offering a breakfast for families offering the opportunity to meet with Santa. Santa will walk between tables meeting the children and handing out a festive gift to ticket holders aged 2 to 12 years

16 Families Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

CHRISTMAS court-palace-ice-rink The UK’s largest open air ice rink is back at the Victorian bandstand in Hyde Park from Saturday 21 November to Sunday 5 January. Part of Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, sessions need to be pre-booked for entry into the Winter Wonderland site.

Hyde Park, W1K 7TY www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com/things-to-do/iceskating Hailed as one of the capital’s favourite winter experiences, Skate at Somerset House signals the start of the festive period with festive shopping and pop up restaurants and bars. Open from Wednesday 13 November to Sunday 12 January, there’s something for everyone with Skate School lessons, DJ sets and chilled out sessions. Closed Christmas Day. Strand, WC2R 1LA www.somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on/skate-somerset-house

old. Santa will then read a Christmas story to all the children, after which each child will receive an 'I met Santa' certificate. On Sunday 8 December, Saturday 14 December and Sunday 15 December and every day from 19-24 December.

Stubbings Nursery, Henley Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 6QL www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk/events/breakfast-withsanta-2024

ICE SKATING RINKS Apart from a visit to Father Christmas, nothing is more festive than ice skating and perhaps an indulgent hot chocolate afterwards. Why not visit one of these ice rinks this winter: Glide ice rink at Battersea Power Station offers unrivalled views of the Thames as you skate around three interconnected ice rinks all centered around a 30ft-tall Christmas tree. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops for skaters to make use of at the Power station itself. Visit between Friday 8 November and Sunday 5 January.

Battersea Power Station SW11 8BJ www.glidebatterseapowerstation.co.uk

If you want to make a day of it, the ice rink at Westfield means you can shop and skate! Open from Friday 15 November to Sunday 5 January in Shepherd’s Bush. Whether you enjoy the energy of a busy rink or a peaceful glide, there are sessions to suit everyone.

1081 Ariel Way, W12 7GF www.icerinkatwestfieldlondon.co.uk Windsor on Ice - if you would like to meet Santa and give him your Christmas list, make sure you visit on the following dates: Saturday and Sundays 14, 15, 21, 22 and 24 December. Email boxoffice@windsoronice.com for special requests for Santa or groups wanting to see him.

Alexandra Gardens, Barry Avenue, SL4 3HY. www.windsoronice.com/meet-santa All events still had availability at time of going to print (October 2024).

Join the Great Skate at Blenheim Palace from Friday 15 November to Wednesday 1 January. For the first time ever, come to skate in the Palace's stunning Great Court on a spectacular, covered ice rink. Surrounded by breath-taking beauty and festive décor, enjoy a luxurious hot chocolate or tasty treats at rink-side seats.

Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 1UL www.blenheimpalace.com Situated in the gardens of Henry VIII’s historic home. Ice Skating at Hampton Court is open daily from 9.30am, Friday 22 November to Sunday 5 January. (Closed Christmas Day).

Advanced booking essential.

Hampton Court Palace, Hampton Court Way, Molesey, KT8 9AU www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/whats-on/hampton-

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Letter from Santa All children love to receive a letter addressed to them in the post. And what could be more special than a letter from Santa? Here are two ways of making this happen.

Royal Mail Letter to Santa For children to receive a FREE letter from Santa via the Royal Mail children must post their letter to Santa by 30 November. Envelopes must have either a first or second class stamp and be addressed to Santa/Father Christmas, Santa’s Grotto, Reindeerland, XM4 5HQ. The letter must include your child’s full name and address.

More info at www.royalmail.com/christmas/letters-tosanta NSPCC Santa Letter Children can also receive a personalised reply from Santa via his elves at the NSPCC in exchange for a donation to the charity. The letter is ordered online and must be placed by 15 December.

More info at https://letterfromsanta.nspcc.org.uk

Families Thames Valley East 17

CLUBS & CLASSES

Your family guide to

What's On Ongoing The Paddington Bear™ Experience at London County Hall Throughout Nov and Dec Multi-sensory interactive adventure for all ages London County Hall, Belvedere Rd, Southbank SE1 7GP www.paddingtonbearexperience.com

November Festive Season at the Southbank Centre Fri 1 Nov-Sun 5 Jan Spectacular shows, luminous art, activities and a wondrous winter market.

Southbank Centre Square SE1 8XX www.southbankcentre.co.uk/events/winter RSPCA 200 at Windsor Castle Sat 2-Sun 3 Nov Crafts all about animals. Children can also pick up a trail ‘All about the Kings Beasts’.

Free with entry to the castle. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays Windsor Castle, Pug Yard Learning Centre www.rct.uk/whatson Mini Mondays at Iver Environment Centre Mon 4 and Mon 18 Nov Theme: Getting ready for Winter, activities suitable for ages 2-5 yrs.

Don’t forget to book car parking ticket.

10am-12pm Monday 4th; 12.30-2.30pm Monday 18th.

Iver Environment Centre, Iver SL0 0EB www.iverenvironmentcentre.org Young Rangers Sat 9 Nov Wildlife club for 8-11 yrs. 10am-12noon.

Woolley Firs, Cherry Garden Lane, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events Christmas at Kew Wed 13 Nov-Sun 5 Jan A botanical world with twinkling lights and seasonal sounds.

Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew TW9 3AB www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/ christmas Eton’s Light Switch On Thurs 14 Nov Celebrate Christmas in Eton with food stalls, funfair rides, music, dancing and all the fun of Christmas. The light switch on is at 7pm.

Eton High Street, Eton SL46BT www.visitthames.co.uk The Christmas Fair at Ascot Thurs 14 Nov-Sun 17 Nov 150 top quality gift, food and accessory companies for fabulous Christmas presents

The Pavilion, Ascot Racecourse, SL5 7JX https://bit.ly/4euDppp

Dinton Pastures Country Park, RG10 0TH www.firstdays.net/glow-walk

Nature Tots Fri 15 Nov Preschool fun outdoors 10am £7 plus booking fee (block booking now available).

Woolley Firs, Maidenhead SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Windsor Christmas Lights Switch On Sat 16 Nov Including carols and festivities.

Peascod Street, Windsor, SL4 4DE www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on

Christmas Light Night Fri 15 Nov Join them for chocolate, mulled wine and storytelling in the cafe as Oxford celebrates Christmas Light Festival from 5 to 9pm.

The Story Museum Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on/ christmas-light-night The Great Skate at Blenheim Palace Fri 15 Nov-Wed 1 Jan For the first time ever, come to skate in the Palace's stunning Great Court on a spectacular, covered ice rink.

Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire OX20 1UL www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/ events/christmas Windsor Great Park Illuminated Fri 15 Nov-Sat 4 Jan Visit a spectacular sparkly light show experience.

Nr The Savill Garden, Wick Ln, Englefield Green, Egham TW20 0UJ www.windsorilluminated.com Windsor on Ice Fri 15 Nov-Sun 5 Jan Fully-covered rink for all the family next to fair festivities.

Alexandra Gardens, Windsor SL4 5HZ www.windsoronice.com Waddesdon at Christmas Friday 15 Nov-Sun 5 Jan (Wed to Sun, except 23 -26 Dec) Inspired by ‘Sleeping Beauty’, the manor and grounds are set to be a magical festive experience.

Aylesbury HP18 0JH www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/ christmas Glow Walk at Dinton Pastures Country Park Sat 16 Nov 2 mile walk around Black Swan Lake under starlight.

Santa’s Grotto at Daniels Sat 16 Nov-Tues 24 Dec Tell Santa what you’d like for Christmas!

Includes gift.

Daniel Department Store, 120-124 Peascod Street, Windsor, SL4 1DP www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on Christmas at Basildon Park Sat 16 Nov-Sun 5 Jan Basildon Park pays tribute to classic Christmas films.

Basildon Park, Reading RG8 9NR https://bit.ly/48Ir12I Christmas Fair at Moss End Sun 17 Nov Shopping, entertainment, food & drink, fun and games. Santa’s grotto available. 10-3pm.

Moss End Garden Village, Maidenhead Rd, Warfield RG426EJ https://bit.ly/3BA7Wn6 Marlow’s Switch On Thurs 21 Nov Light switch on, stalls and shops High Street, Marlow SL7 1XA www.visitthames.co.uk Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland Thurs 21 Nov-Sun 5 Jan Ice skating, circus shows, roller coaster rides, street food stalls, festive bars and live music.

Hyde Park W1K 7TY www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com Dick Whittington at Theatre Royal Windsor Fri 22 Nov-Sun 12 Jan Panto time including Basil Brush!

Theatre Royal Windsor, SL4 1PS www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Wellington Illuminova Fri 22 Nov-Mon 23 Dec Welly Park becomes sparkly and festive with illuminated paths and enchanting lights Wellington Country Park, Riseley, RG7 1SP www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

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.

18 Families Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

WHAT'S ON Christmas at Legoland Sat 23 Nov-Mon 4 Jan See select dates. Enjoy Legoland magic at Christmas.

Winkfield Road, Windsor SL4 4AY www.legoland.co.uk/explore/specialevents/legoland-at-christmas Maidenhead Christmas Lights Switch On Sat 23 Nov Light switch on, fair and festive market.

Maidenhead Town Centre, SL6 1RF Clewer and Dedworth Christmas Fair Sun 24 Nov Light switch on and fair.

Pirate Park, Windsor SL4 5AY www.cleweranddedworth.org.uk Santa's Grotto at Dobbies Mon 25 Nov-Tues 24 Dec This year incorporates a Little Seedlings trainthemed journey!

Floral Mile, Hare Hatch, Twyford, RG10 9SW www.dobbies.com/events Christmas at Hughenden Mon 25 Nov-Fri 3 Jan Celebrate a Nordic Christmas!

Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe HP14 4LA https://bit.ly/3zBYP4S Pinocchio Tues 26 Nov-Sat 28 Dec Puppetry Christmas show. Age 3+ Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events Christmas Cracker at Odds Farm Park Fri 29 Nov-Tues 24 Dec Take a magical stroll to the North Pole and enjoy a personal visit to meet Father Christmas.

Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk/christmas-cracker Santa’s Christmas Cracker Sat 30 Nov Join Father Christmas and friends for a fun, festive, musical adventure to discover the wonder of Christmas.

The Kenton Theatre, Henley-on-Thames RG9 2BS www.thekenton.org.uk/events/santaschristmas-cracker Wokingham Christmas Market Sat 30 Nov-Sun 1 Dec Gifts, stalls and entertainment 12-6pm 191 Wokingham Road, Reading RG6 1LT https://bit.ly/4gTcgOw

December Mini Mondays at Iver Environment Centre Mon 2 and Mon 16 Dec Theme: Evergreens, activities suitable for ages 2-5 yrs. Don’t forget to book car parking.

10am- 2pm Mon 2nd; 12.30-2.30pm Mon 16th.

Iver Environment Centre, Iver SL0 0EB www.iverenvironmentcentre.org Festive Night Markets Fri 6 and Sat 7 Dec Shop for unusual, handmade items and take in a film or enjoy a coffee in the Café Bar. Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events/norden-farmmarket St Luke’s Christmas Tree Festival Fri 6-Sun 8 Dec Raising money for Thames Valley Heartbeat.

St Luke’s Church, Maidenhead SL6 7AX www.stlukeschurchmaidenhead.org.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Lantern Parade Sat 7 Dec This year the Theme is ‘Our Animal Neighbours’. Join the parade in Maidenhead town centre. 4.30pm. Lantern workshops also available at Norden Farm.

Maidenhead Town Hall SL6 1RF www.norden.farm/pages/the-lanternparade Iver Heath Christmas Fair Sat 7 Dec Starts at 2pm Iver Heath Village Hall, Iver Heath SL0 0DA Christmas Fair at Danesfield House Sat 7 Dec Twinkling lights, mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, shopping and festive cheer!

Henley Road, Buckinghamshire SL7 2EY www.danesfieldhouse.co.uk/concierge/ whats-on Festive Weekend Sat 7-Sun 8 Dec Meet costumed folk in the buildings and see how they decorated and celebrated Christmas. Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Chalfont St Peter HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk/events/festive-weekend Breakfast with Santa at Crocus Sat 7 Dec and Sat 14 Dec Enjoy a delicious breakfast before the elves take the children to meet Santa. Also every day from 18-23 Dec. Court Ln, Dorney, Windsor SL4 6QP www.crocus.co.uk/dorney-court Breakfast with Father Christmas Sun 8 Dec, Sat 14 Dec and Sun 15 Dec Enjoy breakfast and meet Father Christmas as he hands out a festive gift. Also every day from 19-24 Dec. Stubbings Nursery, Maidenhead SL6 6QL www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk/events/ breakfast-with-santa-2024 A Christmas Wish Mon 9 Dec A lovely Christmas tale with music, dance and costumes.

The Old Court, Windsor SL4 3BL https://bit.ly/3XYQK26 Cinderella Ballet Tues 10 Dec Royal Opera House ballet shown in the Courtyard cinema.

Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events/the-royal-balletcinderella

Aladdin Fri 13 Dec-Sun 5 Jan Vernon Kay is back again this year to star!

Wycombe Swan, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk Snow White Sat 14-Mon 30 Dec Fun-filled panto.

The Kenton Theatre, Henley-on-Thames RG9 2BS www.thekenton.org.uk/events/snow-white Cinderella Thurs 14-Sun 24 Dec Will Cinders escape the cutches of her ugly stepsisters and live happily ever after?

The Bayliss Theatre, Braywick Leisure Centre, Braywick Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1BN www.maidenheadpanto.co.uk The Nutcracker Ballet Thurs 19, Sat 21 & Sun 27 Dec Royal Opera House ballet shown in the Courtyard cinema.

Norden Farm, Maidenhead SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events/royal-ballet-andopera-cinema-season-the-nutcracker Christmas at Dorney Lake Sat 21 Dec and Sun 22 Dec Santa and his reindeer are pulling up their sleigh and he’s inviting you to share in the magic of Christmas at Dorney Lake!

Dorney Lake, Dorney SL4 6FJ www.dorneylake.co.uk/breakfast-withsanta The Santa Show Sat 21 and Mon 23 Dec A live stage show featuring songs and audience interaction, plus a small gift.

Braywick Leisure Centre, Braywick Road, Maidenhead SL6 1BN www.dk-pro.co.uk/whats-on Cinderella Ice Cream Seller Sat 21-Tues 31 Dec Christmas family musical show.

The Story Museum Oxford OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk/whats-on/ cinderella-ice-cream-seller Festive Family Fun at Windsor Castle Sun 22 Dec-Sun 5 Jan Victorian Christmas crafts and festive trail.

FREE with entry. Castle closed Tue and Wed. Windsor Castle, Pug Yard Learning Centre www.rct.uk/whatson

Families Thames Valley East 19

Make your own Christmas Toss Game

C an ut o d k ut  eep

This fun game for children is easy and cost-effective to make using a few craft supplies that you may already have at home or which are easy to buy. We find that it’s easier for little ones to play if you use small cups but the idea works just as well when using larger paper cups for older children.

With thanks to Learning Resources® for this activity. Take a look at their hands-on educational toys, games and learning activities at www.learningresources.co.uk

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You will need:

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Mini red cups (we used 11) An artboard or any similar item which has a flat surface Double-sided sticky pads to attach the cups to the artboard (You can also use a hot glue gun for this job) Pom poms in fun Christmas colours

Stick the mini red cups onto the artboard.

Stick on enough cups to make a fun Christmas tree shape.

We used 11, but you can use more or less.

Turn the board over and stick a further two cups to what will be the top end of the game board.

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Playing Christmas Toss

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With one or more little ones, see how many colourful pom poms they can land in the cups. When playing with more than one child, count out the same quantity of pom poms in each colour and give each their own pile. The first player to land all their pom poms wins the game!

Challenge older children with a fun maths twist. Write numbers inside the bottom of each cup. After players have landed their pom poms in the cups, add up the score. The player with the highest wins the game.

Step 4

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Turn the board over and check that it’s stable.

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Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham Familiesonline.co.uk