Families Thames Valley East May/June 22 by Families Magazine

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What’s On Education Summer Camps

Issue 120 May/June 2022 familiesonline.co.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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Contents ...endless ideas for families of young children in Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

In This Issue

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News & information FamiliesTVE @FamiliesTVE EDUCATION Thames Valley East 8 Understanding executive From the Editors…. function It’s the final term of the school year and for Anna and I, the very last term of primary 9 A parent’s guide to school for our older boys. It feels like that’s come round very fast and I for one am secondary school transition already preparing my son for the fact that I will expect him to walk to school with me 10 Lessons to learn before (and maybe even hold my hand), one last time before he finishes! For any other parents you’re 10 with mixed feelings over children starting secondary school, we look at how to handle Please find below a proof of your advertisement for that transition onthe p.9. EARLY YEARS January/February 2017 issue (No. 88) of Families TVE. If you want a new hobby for your children during the summer term, or you’re looking 12 Developing humour as an ahead to the summer holidays and wondering how to fill them, infant Please SUMMER CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT we’ve put together a camps and classes guide to help you FUN planaddresses. your time on pages 14-15. There’s also some suggestions especially dates, telephone numbers and 13 The lowdown on school for places to visit and make the most of family time on pages holiday camps and 16-17, plus our usual What’s On guide on pages 19-21. Any changes need to be made at this stage. T: 01628 627586 workshops Happy summer planning! charged for. Any further amendments will be E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk 14-15 Summer camps, clubs and 50 All Saints Avenue, Maidenhead, classesus by return either to amend or approve your Please contact advertisement. 16-17 Where to visit Summer 2022 Berkshire, SL6 6NA 19-21 WHAT’S ON Editors: Next Issue: 22 FOOD Exploring different Rachel Bailey & Anna Collins July / Aug 2022 cultures through food 01628 829761 / 01628 788058 Tel: 01628 829761 / 01628 788058 Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk Circulation: 16,000 23 BOOK CLUB

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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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ENROLLING NOW Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year-olds

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HENLEY AND MARLOW 07539753718 henleyandmarlow@stagecoach.co.uk

HIGH WYCOMBE 07539753718 highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk

MAIDENHEAD 01628 281128 maidenhead@stagecoach.co.uk

WINDSOR AND LANGLEY 01932 988086 windsor@stagecoach.co.uk

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EDUCATION News Newsand & Views Information

The Old Windsor Nursery & Preschool and Baby Bank Partner up! A beautiful Italian holiday with family needs at the core Gattarella resort is a family hotel and residence in Puglia, South Italy. Their focus is to provide a dream holiday for both adults and children against the beautiful Italian setting. Creating the perfect holiday actually starts with entering your children’s ages on their website. You can immediately see that an 11-13 year old has access to adventure parks, skating, sport and private lessons and a 0-2 year old can access a ‘Baby Me’ package including care, nappies, sterilizers, push-chairs, a children’s buffet, music, painting and sleeping areas….. to name just a few options! There are an array of different accommodation options available including both rooms and apartments designed with different configurations to suit families. The website makes it clear how suitable each option is for adults, children and babies, which is a delight as it’s often difficult to gauge how suitable other holidays are. As a parent or carer you can be as sporty as you like or as relaxed as you like, as the resort caters for all. Personally we fancy the aperitif at sunset in the Lounge Bar overlooking the sea while the children are happily occupied! www.gattarella.it

Kelly, Amar and the team at The Old Windsor Day Nursery and Preschool are excited to announce their recent partnership with The Baby Bank - a Windsor based charity founded in 2015 by two new mums who recognised that not all families were as Amar and the team recently raised fortunate to have everything £100 and donated books to the they needed when becoming charity as part of the World Book parents. Since the charity was Day Campaign founded, they have been able to provide newborn starter kits, essential supplies, clothing bundles and school uniforms to families who may lack the financial means to do so themselves. The team, children and parents at The Old Windsor Day Nursery and preschool are already making plans for a 3k family trail event this May and hope to raise £500 for The Baby Bank. Deputy Manager Amar comments, “We’ve chosen to support The Baby Bank because it’s a charity that is part of our local community and means we’re helping families close to us. We’ve donated bundles in the past but wanted to go the extra mile this year with lots of fun fundraising events the children and our parents could be part of.” lgnurseries.com / www.thebabybank.org/about-us

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News and News Information & Views Smile this summer with a FREE Perform class Summer term is here and there’s no better time for your child to try a Perform class. Packed with self-esteem boosting activities, Perform weekly classes will round off the academic year with a fun and relaxed focus on developing confidence, communication, coordination and concentration. Using a mix of drama, dance and singing, these high-energy classes for all abilities are designed to allow even the most reticent children to shine. The curriculum has an emphasis on fun, making friends and lots of laughter plus children can enjoy bespoke apps, downloads and videos at home. Small classes ensure plenty of individual attention and each child receives a progress report every 10 weeks. This term, 4-7s will be bringing out the super in themselves as they become Superheroes on a mission to save the world. Meanwhile, 7-12s will enjoy red carpet glamour in Jack and the Wonder beans. If you think your child may benefit from Perform but are not sure if they’ll like it, you can book a free trial class at www.perform.org.uk/try. Families’readers receive a special £40 discount when booking before 31st May, just quote TVE310522. Local Perform Classes: St Peter’s Centre, 1 Thorney Lane North, Iver SL0 9JU 4-7s Tuesdays 4pm; 7-12s Tuesdays 5.05pm Boyne Hill Infant School, Rutland Road, Maidenhead SL6 4HZ 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays 11.15am All Saints Church Hall, The Causeway, Marlow SL7 2AA 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm Hilltop First School, Clewer Hill Road, Windsor SL4 4DW 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm Virginia Water Community Centre, 3 Beechmount Ave, Virginia Water GU25 4EY 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm 4 Marlow Road Youth and Community Centre SL6 7YR 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm

Local 11 year old raises over £800 for Ukraine It’s so lovely to see children wishing to take the initiative and raise money for Ukraine across the local area. If your own children are feeling sad about the situation, this is a great way to make them feel like they are doing something to help. James Collins, 11 from Maidenhead decided he needed to do more than just watch the news and set about working out how he could use his football skills to raise money. Off he went with his Dad, a placard and a tin and he proceeded to do keepy-uppies and general football skills outside Budgens in Maidenhead, managing to raise £200 in an hour. He has also set up a Just Giving page and raised a further £600 since. I f you would like to give to Ukraine here is the web page: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/James-CollinsKeepyUpAthon

ontact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk C perform.org.uk/try

EE Jubilee Celebration ad A5.qxp_EE Jubilee Celebration ad A5 18/02/2022 14:48 Page 1

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News Newsand & Views Information

Little ones to get their boots muddy in Old Windsor There is much excitement at St John’s Beaumont Preparatory School in Old Windsor as Little Muddy Boots, a local garden and nature club for toddlers and pre-schoolers launches its third franchise at the school’s site. The hour-long sessions will run weekly, on Wednesdays and Fridays, for children between the age of 2 to 5 years old alongside their parents, grandparents and carers. During classes, the children will be learning through play, crafting, gardening and much more. Outdoor facilities include mature woods, outdoor playgrounds, a pond and an outdoor theatre.

Enjoy a London city break with the family at The Resident Kensington London has so much to offer children and adults alike and what’s more it’s right on our doorstep. Given it’s easy to get to by train, we’ve always tended to visit for a day trip, but more recently we decided instead of trying to squeeze everything into one very rushed day and dragging tired children home on a late train, we’d look for somewhere to stay and enjoy a more relaxed visit.

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The Resident Kensington is a beautiful townhouse hotel with a lovely homely feel. For us, the initial draw was the location - just a short Please find below a proofNatural of your advertisement the walk from South Kensignton’s History and Sciencefor museums which were2020 top ofissue our list(No. to visit, and minutes from Jan/Feb 106) of5Families TVE.Earl’s Court station, with easy access to central London. However, as well as being perfectly situated for enjoying all that London has to offer, the quiet neighbourhood comfortable rooms make this a real home from Please CHECKand ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially home. dates, telephone numbers and addresses.

Some rooms offer bunk beds and outdoor terraces, but all include a mini kitchen cleverly hidden behind cupboard Any changes need to be made at this stage.doors. Kitted out with all including Nespresso for. machine (a real Anykitchen furtheressentials amendments willabe charged coffee win for this coffee dependent mum!), it meant we could have a relaxed breakfast withoutushaving to rush out to with hungryorkids first thing. Please contact by return either amend approve yourThe front desk is managed 24 hours with friendly staff who can even preadvertisement. stock your fridge before you arrive. For us, The Resident was instrumental in turning a couple of days in London into a real adventure for the children whilst making it more relaxing and enjoyable for everyone. o book your stay visit: www.residenthotels.com/the-residentT kensington The Resident Kensington, 25 Courtfield Gardens SW5 0PG 0207 2442255

Giles Delaney, Headmaster at St John’s Beaumont, says “We are excited about this partnership with Little Muddy Boots. It will beneﬁt everyone using the great outdoors from a physical and mental wellbeing perspective.” Families are invited to experience the school on 6th May at Open Day. Go to www.SJBwindsor.uk/visit to book your visit. To join Little Muddy Boots toddler classes, visit: www.littlemuddyboots.co.uk/windsor

‘Baby talk’ can help infants learn to make words Speaking ‘baby talk’ to infants not only helps parents and caregivers connect with them but it may also help babies learn to make words, a study by the University of Florida has found.

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Mimicking the sound of a smaller vocal tract helps babies understand how words should sound coming out of their own mouths, the researchers said. T: 07867 514138 / 07753 414605

E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk The researchers changed the frequency of sounds to mimic both infant and adult vocal tracts and then tested29 how infantsWay, reacted to Little People Media, Furrow each. They discovered babies had a distinct preference for speech SL6is similar 3 NY in size and length to with resonances ofMaidenhead a vocal tract that their own. While parents are sometimes discouraged from engaging in baby talk, the research shows the patterns associated with that speaking style, which scientists call ‘infant-directed speech,’ could be a key component in helping babies make words. More info www.sciencedaily.com/releases/

We are an Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ nursery providing high quality day care for children from three months to ﬁve years. Set within bright, modern Windsor Leisure Centre, our setting includes a large toddler room, pre-school room, a new snuggly baby room, and spacious outdoor garden.

Open 51 weeks a year – Accepts 30 hours funding – Highly trained team Come and look around today: Call: 01753 855543 or email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk 6

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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Education

Understanding executive function By Usha Patel Executive functioning is a way of describing the series of mental processes that are required to complete a task. Broadly speaking, executive function skills involve selfcontrol, working memory and flexible thinking. Children labelled with a learning or behavioural problem will often display issues with their executive functioning, for example, in staying organised and focused. But many of the symptoms that parents may be told to medicate away are, in fact, executive functioning problems that might respond to a different kind of therapy. These are the kids who lose the homework they stuffed into overflowing backpacks. Or the children who realise at 9pm that they need supplies for a vital project due the next day. When the tasks of daily life become unbearable, they melt down in a convulsion of emotion. Whether the diagnosis is ADD, dyslexia or something else, these kids share a common problem: they just can’t manage the simple daily tasks that come easily to some of us. Many children experience problems with their executive functioning, regardless of whether they have an underlying condition. Difficulty with one skill usually manifests across lots of different areas of a child’s life. For example, a child who has difficulty with time management is likely to both struggle to be on time and be unable to estimate how long a task will take. Executive function difficulties seem pervasive but I believe it is possible to deconstruct their symptoms and pinpoint cognitive

skills that can be strengthened using the latest research. These difficulties are manageable and respond well to intervention. The first step is to observe your child and their behaviour, look for any executive functioning problems and then talk to them about their difficulties. A child’s struggles can come from a variety of sources but these may be mysterious and frustrating for both you and your child and the source may be difficult to pinpoint. However, the chances are there is an underlying cognitive skill that needs strengthening. By understanding the root cause of the problem, you can then implement helpful therapies. You may find it helpful to download my self-assessment that highlights behaviours associated with executive functioning problems. You can find this at https://bit.ly/exfuinfo Usha Patel is a neurocognitive therapist and expert in executive functioning, along with other special educational needs. She runs Raviv Practice London (www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk).

Identifying executive function weaknesses Rule out learning disorders It’s possible your child isn’t turning in homework because they don’t understand the subject and are embarrassed to ask for help. It isn’t uncommon, for example, for children gifted in the arts to have a learning disability when it comes to maths. Rule out emotional issues Perhaps a bully is targeting your child. Maybe they’re too anxious to read their homework out loud. Maybe they’re concerned the teacher dislikes them and will give them a bad grade. Children’s emotional pain may not make sense to us but it’s very real to them. Understand the patterns There is an unmistakable pattern to executive function problems in children. If your child often loses their homework and their bedroom is always a mess, this may indicate problems with organising. If they can’t resist playing video games or another fun activity until homework is finished, then they may have trouble with self-control. If that’s the case, then they will probably want to eat dessert before dinner too! 8

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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Education

A parent’s guide to secondary school transition

By Lisa Wander and Catherine Loble

The move from primary to secondary school is a major change for children. Most see this as an exciting next stage in their school journey but, for some, the change can make them feel anxious and uncertain. And all this at an age when children are already going through many physical and emotional changes ahead of adolescence. Bringing up children is a slow, staggered process of detachment, from the moment they learn to crawl to the moment they finally leave home. When a child starts secondary school, with a mobile phone and travel card, it’s easy to see impending adulthood in the paraphernalia of independence as the detachment process begins. Our role is to give our children roots and wings. Roots to know where home is and wings to fly away. The roots begin to form during early years education; secondary school is the place where children start to grow their wings. Whilst most children will have a positive secondary school start and will embrace the new experiences on offer, research has found that the shift to secondary school can be stressful for about one in four children and that nearly three quarters of parents are anxious themselves. Our input at this stage is crucial and our role as parents is to be our child’s sounding board, establishing an open relationship in which they feel valued, respected and connected. By adopting this non-judgemental response, our children are more likely to

keep talking to us as they get older. Finally, while we may no longer be at the school gates, our involvement continues to be crucial to both our children’s emotional wellbeing and academic success. There are still many opportunities to stay involved: by joining the PTA, becoming part of a class WhatsApp group and getting to know the school and what support it offers. Talk to your children about their day but possibly not the moment they walk through the door - a snack and a drink often help to ease the way into a pleasant chat. The key to a healthy ongoing relationship is to keep the communication going. Remember that you are your child’s emotional coach. 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.

Small School Small School S ceh m cfiothsool o l all School Bm ig aa BlllelSnS SBm Benefits Meadowbrook delivers B igoathBelB ecenacnn e’th…feiotfsoitlsBMiegiag whm aitg rsS S l B B dowe brn ooe k fdites livers Meadowbrook delivers M e a d o w b r o o k d e l i v e r s M k’t… dbetter…teaching othetailored rs canto’t… w heiaa ootB hw eknow rbe sro cn aone …staff pupils B gtdwho fietlineeds…greater sverswwhhat&aotlearning thers can’t… individual social confidence…a w hat ot&hnot erwhole s caclass n’t…

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Before your child starts Exploring Recognise and talk about their primary school highlights and achievements - and things they may miss. Find out what they are looking forward to at their new school, addressing worries and concerns. Connecting Look at the new school website with your child and take part in any induction events. Help your child think about how to approach new people and start conversations. Find other children on the new school route to travel with. Empower your child Encourage your child to take more responsibility at home to build their confidence and independence. Support steps towards independence: allow them to walk home alone in their final term (if practical), meet a friend locally or run an errand for you. Notice when your child does something well and praise them. Organisation is key to success Help your child plan out their journey and do a few trial runs together. Make sure you have all the uniform and equipment ready in time. Plan a suitable space and time for daily homework. familiesonline.co.uk

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Through a combination of Montessori inspired practice, the Through a combination of Montessori inspired practice, the National Curriculum, Growth Mindset & Positive Discipline, National Curriculum, Growth Mindset & Positive Discipline, Through a combination of Montessori inspired practice, the to Meadowbrook offers a unique, highly personalised approach Meadowbrook offers a unique, highly personalised approach to Through a combination of Montessori inspired p National Curriculum, Growth Mindset & Positive Discipline, child-centred education without compromising on standards. child-centred education without compromising on standards. National Curriculum, Growth Mindset & Positive Meadowbrook offers afor unique, highlyschool personalised approach Excellent preparation secondary & beyond in a firmtobut Excellent preparation of forMontessori secondary school & beyond a ﬁrmofhighly Meadowbrook offersthe ainunique, personalisi Through a combination inspired practice, Through aon combination Montessori child-centred education environment. without compromising standards. fair, loving & stress-free but fair, Curriculum, loving & stress-free environment. child-centred education without compromising National Growth Mindset & Positive Discipline, Excellent preparation secondary school & inspired beyond in practice, a firm Growth but the Mindset & National Curriculum, To book your visit call for us on 01344 890869 Through a combination of Montessori Excellent preparation for to secondary school & be Meadowbrook offers a unique, highly personalised approach fair, loving & stress-free environment. or email admin@meadowbrook.uk Meadowbrook offers a unique, highly p National Curriculum, Growth Mindset &&on Positive Discipline, fair, loving stress-free environment. child-centred education standards. To book your us01344 oncompromising 01344 890869 To book visit callcall uswithout on 890869 Find out your more atvisit www.meadowbrook.uk child-centred education without book&your visit in call us on 01344 890869 Meadowbrook offers a unique,To highly personalised approach to compr Excellent preparation for secondary school beyond a firm but or emailadmin@meadowbrook.uk admin@meadowbrook.uk or email or email admin@meadowbrook.uk Find out more at www.meadowbrook.uk Excellent preparation for secondary sch fair, loving & stress-free environment. child-centred without compromising on standards. Find out more ateducation www.meadowbrook.uk Find out more at www.meadowbrook.uk To book your visit call us on 01344 890869 fair, loving & stress-free environment.

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SUMMER FUN Education

Lessons to learn before you’re 10 By Gail Hugman We live in a world where it’s easy to become overwhelmed. So teaching young children to make good use of their working memory, exercise self-control and get organised will really help them develop the skills they need to succeed in life. These key skills underpin everything we do in life and it takes just a few minutes a day to boost them so your child learns more effectively and confidently. What’s more, growing these skills can be fun! Developed by experts who understand how children’s brains develop and form, try these starter activities to set your child off on the right path.

school, your brain will remember it better if you sort the information first. You’ll be able to remember names, countries, lists, linked facts and even do magic tricks by remembering a bunch of playing cards in order - how cool is that?’

Working memory

Self-control

Play Kim’s Game.

Ask your child to tell you really quietly what colour socks they are wearing. Then ask them to tell you again as LOUDLY as possible (it may not be such fun for you, but they will love it!) Each time they whisper or shout, give feedback to their brain by telling them ‘that’s great whispering, can it be quieter?’ or ‘excellent LOUD voice, is that the loudest you’ve got?’

To set up, gather ten objects together on a tray. Give your child one to two timed minutes to look at the objects, then cover them up. Depending on age and ability, ask them to tell, draw or write which ones they remember. As they progress, add more objects or give them less time to remember them. There are ways help brains recall objects; the trick is to make links and spot patterns. Give them these tips: To start with, count how many objects you’ll have to remember. Look to see if any can be linked together, by colour or by material, such as all plastic or all wood, by shape or by use; eg knife and fork go together, tools together, toys together.

Do this exercise a few times and congratulate your child on their self-control. Tell them that taking charge from the inside is a very grown up thing to do. Decide one thing you’d like your child to get under control. For example, it may be to resist the impulse to call out in class. Or leave their desk when they should be sitting quietly. Make it a positive.

Older children ages 7+ might be able to order the objects in a sequence or a story.

Explain to your child that you’d like them to focus on this one thing every day for a week. Remind them each day, ask how they got on and praise their progress. In this way, you’ll support their effort to control their impulses.

The more children play the game, the better they will get at recalling the objects. Why not see for yourself and play along too! Keep a tally so they can track their improvement and praise them for being clever. Explain that this is more than just a fun challenge, it’s all about teaching their brain to have a really good memory.

Gail Hugman is the bestselling author of 100 Things to Learn Before You’re 10. A children’s life coach, she owns and runs Human at Core (www.humanatcore.com), which helps parents motivate and engage their children in developing a bright future and provides science-based online personal development courses for children and parents.

You can say: ‘When your teacher shows you something in

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Based in the heart of Windsor, Upton House is a thriving Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2-11 years. Self-esteem and happiness, we believe, are paramount to each child’s success and we pride ourselves on developing confident and happy children with a love of learning. Call 01753 862610 or email registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk

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Early Years

Developing humour as an infant By Dr Elena Hoicka As a research team, we have always been fascinated by humour in children and so we set out to discover the types of humour that are present in early development and the ages at which different types of humour emerge. To do this, we mapped young children’s understanding of jokes for the first time using data from a new study involving nearly seven hundred children ages 0 to 47 months.1 Incredibly, we identified twenty one types of humour. Children under one year appreciated physical, visual and auditory humour. This included hide and reveal games like peekaboo, tickling, funny voices and noises. In the first year, children are learning to process sensory information, such as what things look, sound and feel like and their humour reflects this. So once they know what a voice should sound like, they notice when someone’s voice sounds strange and find it funny. One-year-olds appreciated humour that involved getting a reaction from others. This included teasing, for example, offering and withdrawing objects, scaring others and taboo topics, for instance, toilet humour. They also found it funny to act like something else, such as an animal. Interestingly, it is around the age of 1 that children start to understand other people’s minds. Their understanding and appreciation of humour reflects this. Two-year-olds’ humour reflected language development, including mislabelling (for instance, calling a duck a cow), playing with concept (for example, saying: ‘dogs say moo’) and nonsense words such as ‘moogly boo.’ They also demonstrated a mean streak as they appreciated making fun of others. As most children start to speak by the age 2, humour reflects this, showing children enjoying playing with language. Our findings

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also suggest that perhaps 2-year-olds are starting to understand that other people’s feelings can be hurt too. While many parents won’t be too happy to see their children laugh at someone’s expense, this may signal that a child is understanding other people in more complex ways. Finally, 3-year-olds played with social rules, for example, saying naughty words to be funny and showing the beginnings of understanding tricks and puns. This reflects the way in which children’s understanding of language and the social world keep developing and are simultaneously reflected in their humour. Dr Elena Hoicka is an Associate Professor at the School of Education, University of Bristol. Want to participate in future research? Sign up at www.babylovesscience.com 1 ‘The Early Humor Survey (EHS): A Reliable Parent-Report Measure of Humor Development for 1- to 47-Month-Olds’ by E Hoicka et al in Behavior Research Methods.

How to joke with your child Parents are very good at joking with their young children. Professor Gina Mireault, from Northern Vermont University, found that when parents joke around with little ones ages 3 to 6 months, they smile and laugh, letting their baby know they are joking. Professor Vasu Reddy, from the University of Portsmouth, found that when parents laughed at their 7 to 12 month-olds’ jokes, their babies often repeated them. In my research, we found that parents smile more when joking with their toddlers and make more eye contact. Furthermore, parents explain they are joking. They often express jokes like a question, for instance: ‘The ducks say moo?’ which highlights they are not being serious. After joking, they often explain what they did wrong. For instance, saying: ‘Ducks don’t say moo! They say quack!’. In response, children smile and laugh at their parents’ jokes, make eye contact and copy the jokes. So, when you joke with your child, make sure you smile, laugh, make eye contact and even explain your jokes!

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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Summer Fun

The lowdown on school holiday camps and workshops By Andrew Campbell

Summer holiday camps, schools and workshops are not only an ideal way to fill in childcare gaps during the long summer break but offer the opportunity for your child to discover a new hobby or take their existing passion to a new level. Multi-activity day camps Offering a varied daily programme of sports and creative activities, with each session lasting between 1 and 1.5 hours, multi-activity camps are ideal for children who have a range of interests or have not yet found their ‘thing.’ Some camps offer an astounding range of sports, arts and crafts, outdoor exploration, games and challenges. Generally, camps can be booked for single days, half days and full weeks, including extended hours and multi-week discounts. Sport/single activity camps or workshops These intensely focused summer schools offer specialisation. Think a specific sport such as football, gymnastics and cricket, one creative activity such as painting, photography and cooking, a single performing art like drama, musical theatre or dance or an area of STEM such as computer coding, robotics and game design. Generally operating for two to five hours per day and running for just one day or as a progressive course from a few days to two weeks, these camps or workshops often cater for all ages of children and culminate in staging a performance, playing a competitive game or demonstrating a completed project.

For children who have an established interest, single activity camps or workshops offer a valuable opportunity to receive elite coaching and tuition, often from highly qualified or experienced instructors which can result in a significant boost to their existing skill level, confidence and enthusiasm in their chosen endeavour. For a child curious about an activity, single activity camps or workshops are a great opportunity for an immersive experience which will test their interest and aptitude and for gaining an appreciation of what a regular commitment to weekly term time classes, often run by the same organisation, could offer. For children who may struggle to find school friends who share their ‘passion,’ activity camps or workshops are a great way to meet ‘like-minded’ peers in their local area. And for you? A patchwork of activity camps and/or workshops can be expensive but there is a distinct advantage in that they offer some mainstays of childcare across the summer that simultaneously allow your child to be doing something enjoyable, fulfilling, exciting or unique.

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Residential camps – the benefits A residential summer camp may feel daunting for both parents and children but there are significant benefits in having time away from home. Acquire new life skills. Whatever the type of camp, your child will learn new life skills based on their experiences. They may discover a sport or hobby they have not considered before. CODE NINJAS CREATE Flexible year-round coding programme. Kids aged 7-14 advance their coding and STEM skills at their own pace.

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Gain more independence. From choosing what to wear, to ensuring they eat well and keep their area tidy, your child will gain a sense of independence and responsibility that can only come from being away from you. Experience a sense of belonging and make new friends. Having fun with peers can foster a sense of belonging. Kids bond with their teammates on tasks and feel included in the activities taking place, not to mention making new friends. Character development. With more responsibility and freedom comes newly gained confidence which could see your child becoming better organised, making better choices and achieving more in the future.

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Camps, Clubs & Activities With summer just around the corner, here at Families we’ve picked out some of the best clubs and activities running throughout the summer term as well as camps and other activities taking place during the school holidays. Active Personal Development are running summer resilience retreats for tweens and teens (aged 10-16) Build strong self confidence, soaring self-esteem, bust through fear and anxiety, build positive mindset skills and have fun and feel empowered for the future. The retreat is an online program on zoom run across 5 weeks. £20 per session. Please contact to confirm bookings, dates and times. email jean@activepersonaldevelopment. co.uk with Summer Resilience Retreat in the subject line. Blossom Ballet run term-time classes in Windsor from 18months. For a free taster class or for further information, contact Lucy on 07813 084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com Busy Buttons run creative camps during the holidays. Email contact@busybuttons. org or phone 07952 418 212 for more information. www.busybuttons.org

specialities to both children and adults. Cox Green based, they offer term time classes. www.danceinspired.co.uk Code Ninjas who run half term and summer camps offer an immersive environment for kids to explore and develop new skills, gain confidence, and have fun with friends. Positivity and fun are packed into their coding and games-based activity programs, which means that kids aren’t aware they are learning – they’re just having a fantastic time. From coding and game building in Roblox, Minecraft and Scratch, to STEM and robotics projects, our talented young and inspiring sensei take our young ninjas on an exciting journey of discovery to make sure it’s an unforgettable experience! Details of camps and term time classes available online: www.codeninjas.co.uk/langley-brk-uk www.codeninjas.com/locations-list/gb/brk/ windsor

ADVERTISEMENT PROOF running its own Summer activities Camp Heathfield School in Ascot has been

for 30 years. Please find below youralmost advertisement for As thea girls only Camp Camp Beaumont offers adventure daya proof of they ensure that they offer not only a full Chiltern (Issue 110). camps during the MayJuly/August half-term 2021 and issue of Families range of sports but also a lot of creative IS CORRECT Summer holidays, for Please childrenCHECK aged 3-16ALL INFORMATION activities, including arts & crafts, cookery, telephone numbers and addresses. years in Windsor. Visitespecially their websitedates, for dance, design, drama, flower craft and changes need to be made at thisEvery stage.week girls put on a Show more information andAny to book. music. Any further amendments will be charged for. www.campbeaumont.co.uk or Exhibition for their families to attend. Please contact us by return either to amend or approve your advertisement. They offer excellent lunches with a great Dance Inspired was set up in 2011 choice of food plus drinks and snacks at by Amy Opalko to offer street dance, breaks. As well as a full-day programme, contemporary dance and other dance there is also a breakfast option and late stay for day girls. Boarders enjoy a really fun evening programme with their international Summer School girls. www.heathfieldsummerschool.co.uk Little Learners classes teach early writing to children through messy play, fine motor and sensory activities, painting, play dough, movement and more. Classes are suitable for 5 months to 5 years, with a half price discount for siblings. Their sessions run weekly throughout the Spring and Summer, and we will be taking the mess outdoors in July and August! For more information, contact Bernice on 07944478517 or bernice@littlelearnersuk.com www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/messyplay-windsor-maidenhead-slough Leisure Focus operates the 5 leisure centres within the RBWM. During the spring/summer period they are open 7 days a week for family fun swimming with 14

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

their wave machine and new water slide at Windsor as well as the amazing swim facilities at Braywick, not to mention the court hire facilities in the centres for Tennis, Badminton, Football, Squash...plus many more. In addition to this, they are the hub of the community for companies to come and use their facilities for holiday camps etc. All the information can be found on their website www.leisurefocus.org.uk under the 'CLUBS' section. Longridge, Marlow holiday activities are for young people between the ages of 8 and 12 who are looking to explore some adventurous activities and get active during the school holidays. Four of their adventurous activities throughout the day and a packed lunch, all for just £50. Drop them off at 8.45am and pick them up at 5pm – booking available online. Longridge is also a recognised child care provider, so if you wish to pay using childcare vouchers then please contact their bookings team on bookings@adventurelearning.org.uk 01628 968960 www.longridge.org.uk Magpies in the community run camps every school holiday in Maidenhead and Windsor. For more information email mark.nisbet@maidenheadunitedfc.org www.magpiesinthecommunity.org Paddleboard Maidenhead are offering family paddleboard sessions and Junior SUP Clubs and parties- lake and river most days of the week. SUP Fitness Tuesday evenings with parents and Sunday Fundays for all ages. All the equipment is provided. Email info@paddleboardmaidenhead.uk and discover all about their paddleboard adventures and Junior Holiday SUP Club. www.PaddleboardMaidenhead.uk 07505 147957 Perform run confidence building weekly drama, dance and singing classes for 4-7s and 7-12s during term-time. Classes are designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. Visit www.perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE class. Use code TVE310522 for a £40 discount when you book before 31 May. Local Perform Classes: St Peter’s Centre, 1 Thorney Lane North, Iver SL0 9JU 4-7s Tuesdays 4pm; 7-12s Tuesdays 5.05pm Boyne Hill Infant School, Rutland Road, Maidenhead SL6 4HZ 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays

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Camps, Clubs & Activities 11.15am All Saints Church Hall, The Causeway, Marlow SL7 2AA 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm Hilltop First School, Clewer Hill Road, Windsor SL4 4DW 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm Virginia Water Community Centre, 3 Beechmount Ave, Virginia Water GU25 4EY 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm 4 Marlow Road Youth and Community Centre SL6 7YR 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm Contact: T: 020 7255 9120 / enquiries@perform.org.uk perform.org.uk/try Playball run camps in Ascot, Chertsey & Windsor. An all-encompassing sports holiday camp, full of fun-filled games, skills and drills for ages 3-8 years. For more information email windsor@playballkids.com www.playballkids.com Seriously Fun Swimming Schools run weekly term time swimming lessons at Thorpe House School (Gerrards Cross), Aylesbury Grammar School (Aylesbury), The Beacon School (Amersham), St. Piran's School (Maidenhead), Teikyo Japanese

ART CRAFTS COOKERY DANCE DRAMA FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY SHOWS SPORT

School (Slough) & Chiltern Wood School (Wycombe) for children aged 3 to 12 years. Max 6 children per class⁣, £55 per month, FREE swim bag & awards file. Book online at www.seriouslyfun.net or call 01753 364 364. Stagecoach where your children can make new friends, learn new skills and gain confidence in term-time classes for 4-18 year olds. During the holidays they also run one-week holiday workshops which focus on singing, dancing and acting skills which end in a performance for friends and family. For availability, age groups, dates and more information please check your local Stagecoach website: www.stagecoach.co.uk/maidenhead www.stagecoach.co.uk/windsor (covers Langley too) www.stagecoach.co.uk/ascot www.stagecoach.co.uk/bracknellnorth www.stagecoach.co.uk/henleyandmarlow www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombe The Little Gym Windsor combines fun, sport, creative activities and learning to keep kids active and entertained. For more information on their holiday camps visit: www.windsor.thelittlegym.co.uk Tiska Karate classes are held at Braywick Leisure Centre in Maidenhead on Sundays

at 3pm. Children focus on fitness, selfawareness, self-defence, confidence, etiquette, respect and self-discipline. Contact 07885 294418/01753 882012 or email office@tiska.com www.tiska.com Turtle Tots will be running baby and Toddler swimming courses throughout the summer term time. Contact berkshire@ turtletots.com for more information or keep an eye on their Facebook page @ turtletotsberks www.turtletots.com Wise Owls Club will be running at Highfield School, West Road, Maidenhead in the holidays. They are Ofsted rated ‘Good’ and have a 5* food hygiene rating. The children are cared for by a friendly, qualified and caring team. Junior Club is at Highfield for ages 3-6 where children can enjoy lots of sports, free play, craft activities, baking, messy play and group activities. Discovery Club is at Highfield for ages 7-14 where children can enjoy lots of activities, sports, art, baking and group games. A healthy snack, lunch and tea is provided. To register and book visit www.wiseowlschildcare.co.uk Details correct at time of going to press (April 2022) but may be subject to change.

SUMMER CAMP FOR GIRLS July 10 to August 6 2022, Girls aged 7 to 16

DAY AND BOARDING PLACES AVAILABLE familiesonline.co.uk

01344 885197 OR summerschool@heathfieldschool.net www.heathfieldsummerschool.co.uk/summercamp editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

Summer Fun

Where to visit this Summer It’s never too early to plan a Summer of fun with the family! We have put together some suggestions including zoos, parks, walks, trampolining and festivals, all of which can be accessed in and around the local area. Please do remember to check online for uptodate information and to book. BCA Zoo near Maidenhead offers family zoo days and animal encounters but you need to be quick to book. Visit https://zoo.bca.ac.uk for more information. Both Black Park and Dinton Pastures Country Park in Hurst offer scenic walks round the lake, woodland to explore and adventure playgrounds Visit www.dintonpastures.co.uk and https://countryparks. buckscc.gov.uk (which also covers Langely and Denham parks) for more information. Pop down to Boulter’s Lock and Ray Mill Island in Maidenhead and visit the guinea pigs, climb trees, play on the wooden equipment (if you have younger children), or wander over the bridge to Taplow riverside. If you’re feeling really fit you may reach the trim trail further on down the track. Braywick Leisure centre is now set on the edge of Braywick nature reserve and offers the perfect place for a family swim. www.leisurefocus.org.uk/our-centres/ braywick-leisure-centre Cliveden near Maidenhead is the perfect place to enjoy precious family time over the summer. Let little ones run wild in the storybook play den, roly poly down the hill or take a wander down to the river. They often run trails over the school holidays

or maybe be adventurous and book a rowing boat. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ cliveden for more information. There’s also a great woodland walk to do from their woodland car park. If you’re a National Trust member, there are plenty of great places to visit within an hour’s drive. Basildon Park, Grey’s Court, Hughenden, Stowe, The Vyne and Waddesdon are all favourites with us. Another great local place to visit is the Marlow trenches at Pullinghill Wood and Marlow Common. Amongst the beautiful beech woodland with amazing views of the start of The Chilterns, you will come across some old WW1 training grounds where troops practised trench warfare before the real thing. Children love exploring the trenches and it makes for a couple of good hours of fresh air and fun! www.woodlandtrust.org.uk If you want to get close to nature, plan a cycle or walk, perhaps spot a deer or visit the 100 foot Totem Pole at Virginia Water lake, don’t forget Windsor Great Park. The Long Walk also provides an accessible place for an amble, kick around or picnic with the children without the worry of too much traffic www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk Crocus at Dorney Court have a gorgeous cafe and play area for young children as well as a beautiful nursery inside a walled

garden. There is a ‘Bird of Prey’ event on 20th July which has a £2 bird handling charge. Check out their website for other child-friendly events. Facebook for further details @CrocusatDorneyCourt www.crocus.co.uk/dorney-court Fifield Festival - a great local music festival which will finally make you feel like you are living freely! There is a Kidzone built with fun and imagination in mind, including a Dinosaur show, Sandpit, Random and Rocks disco, ball zone, assault course, fun fair and circus skills . Headlining acts are currently Reef! The Hossiers, Dodgy, Daft and The Leylines. www.fifest.co.uk Hitcham Farm in Burnham offers a selection of ice cream flavours made with the milk from their own cows. Definitely worth a visit, flavours change each season. Follow them on Facebook @ HItchamDairy Of course you always need indoor options too, so check out the local trampoline parks and softplays! Book Jump In trampoline park in Slough through www. gojumpin.com/locations/trampoline-parkslough and Jungle Mania in Bourne End www.jungle-mania.co.uk Why not visit a local library this summer to ensure those reading skills are maintained! The 2022 summer reading challenge will be Gadgeteers! They will be teaming up with Science Museum Group for a very special science-themed Challenge that will inspire you to use your imagination and creativity! The Challenge will be available both online and in local libraries. www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk If you fancy some water play, Liquid Leisure Windsor is home to the UK’s number one water sports facilities, with boat and cable wakeboarding, water skiing, slalom and kneeboarding, as well as an amazing Aqua Park. Visit www.liquidleisure.com We can’t have a summer fun page without a mention of Legoland Windsor resort! If you haven’t already, Check out LEGO® MYTHICA: World of Mythical Creatures which includes the UK’s first Flying

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Summer Fun Theatre Ride. There’s also rumours of a Magical Forest opening soon! Pre booking your day visit to the park is essential. Visit www.legoland.co.uk for more information. The Lookout Discovery Centre, Bracknell is always a winner for children with hands-on science and over 90 activities for children of all ages. Visit www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisureservices/look-out-discovery-centre The Maidenhead Festival is back and runs from 23 Saturday July to Sunday 24 July at Kidwells Park. The main stage has a range of entertainment from acoustic performers, bands, opera to dance. The whole show is child-friendly with a funfair, sandpit, workshops and fireworks. www.mheadfestival.weebly.com The Marlow Moves Festival is a brand new event at Higginson Park, Marlow which is planned for June 18 and 19. This is a family-friendly music festival featuring Katy Bradley, Ruddy Warman and the Heavy Weather, Real Deal, Abba Stars UK and much more. Festival with a side-show of children’s workshops, street food and bars. www.zoomevents.co.uk/marlowmoves-music-festival Norden Farm Centre for the Arts in Maidenhead often has a great programme of events for all ages. Visit www.norden.org for details of their plans for the summer.

Odds Farm Park is our local friendly farm park with plenty of amazing outdoor adventures to be had. A visit promises to be a full and fun day out in their wide-open and safe spaces. Visit www. oddsfarm.co.uk for more information and to book. Museums and Theatres - Don’t forget to support your local theatres and museums this Summer. Help to keep the culture and arts a core part of your children’s childhood experiences! For local show and details check: Chiltern Open Air Museum www.coam.org.uk Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, Great Missenden www.roalddahl.com/museum The River and Rowing Museum, Henley www.rrm.co.uk The Theatre Royal, Windsor www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk The Wycombe Swan www.wycombeswan.co.uk Other country Parks and attractions that are well worth a visit include: 4 Kingdoms adventure park and family farm, Thatcham www.4-kingdoms.co.uk Beale Park wildlife park and gardens www.bealepark.org.uk Beckonscot model village, Beaconsfield www.bekonscot.co.uk Wellington Country Park near Reading www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk Stoner Park, Henley www.stonor.com

PADDLEBOARD

MAIDENHEAD YOUNGER KIDS Holiday Clubs (+7 yrs) Paddling Parties (+4yrs) Parent & Child Trips

FAMILIES

Guided River Trips Gatherings Safety, Skills & Rescue Paddlesporty Sundays Family Company days

TEENS

Holiday Clubs River Trips SUP Starters Paddle Parties WE ALSO WORK WITH SCHOOLS & SCOUTS!

GET IN TOUCH

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Longridge Longridge is based on the Thames at Marlow. We provide a huge range of outdoor adventurous activities for all ages and all abilities.

Birthday Parties For a great birthday party, combine a group activity with a Birthday Tea from our Café or bring a picnic.

School Holiday Activity days Every day of the School Holidays, a full day of activities with lunch for only £50!

Family Activity days Switch-off the telly for a day of Full-on Family Fun.

Courses Learn a new sport or improve your skills with one of our qualified instructors. Family kayaking courses now available!

Every Sunday at 3.00pm Maidenhead Club Braywick Leisure Centre (Main Hall) Braywick Road Maidenhead SL6 1BN Tel: 07885 294418 or 01753 882012 Please call to book your place. Email: office@tiska.com

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What’s On? If you’d like your event featured please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with details. Event times and dates do change, please try and check that an event is still going ahead before you head out.

May MONDAYS IN MAY AND JUNE LITTLE ROOTS TODDLER GROUP St Marys Church, White Waltham, SL6 3JF www.stmaryswhitewaltham.org.uk/z/under5s MONDAYS AND FRIDAYS IN MAY AND JUNE BRAYWICK SPRITES Braywick Court School, Hibbert Road, Braywick, SL6 1UU 9.30-10.15 Stay & play (Walkers to 3 yr) 10.30-11.15 sport sessions (3-5yr) for school readiness. Pay on day. £5 per child email: pe@braywickcourtschool.org.uk TUESDAYS IN MAY AND JUNE PADDLEFIT TUESDAYS Maidenhead Sailing Club Lakeside, Summerleaze, SL6 8HZ 6-7pm 11+ years and parents www.paddleboardmaidenhead.uk THURSDAYS IN MAY AND JUNE LITTLE LEARNERS (MAIDENHEAD’) Dorney Village Hall, off Meadow Way, Dorney Reach, Maidenhead SL6 0DS Messy play for 5 months - 5 years. See website for booking .Pay as you go and courses available. www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/messy-playwindsor-maidenhead-slough/ SATURDAYS IN MAY AND JUNE LITTLE LEARNERS (FULMER) Fulmer Village Hall, Fulmer, Slough SL3 6HP Messy play for 5 months - 5 years. See website for booking. Pay as you and courses available. www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/messy-playwindsor-maidenhead-slough/ SUNDAYS IN MAY AND JUNE PADDLESPORTY SUNDAYS Maidenhead Sailing Club Lakeside, Summerleaze, SL6 8HZ Paddleboards & Kayaks followed by a social meet up for families www.paddleboardmaidenhead.uk SUNDAY 1 AND MONDAY MAY 2 ELIZABETHAN MAY DAY BANK HOLIDAY EVENT Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB Standard admission applies. www.coam.org.uk

SATURDAY MAY 7 COOKHAM FESTIVAL CONCERTINI WITH THE BRASS FUNKEYS Sir Bernard Miller Centre, Cookham Lock, Odney Ln SL6 9SR A ‘Concertini’ is a bite-size, live music experience aimed at families with children aged 0 - 8. Expect to hear everything from soulful jazz marches, reggae, gypsy and swing to pumping brass-driven funk. 11am www.concertini.co.uk www.cookhamfestival.co.uk SATURDAY 7 AND SUNDAY MAY 8 LEARN MAYPOLE DANCING Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB Standard admission applies. www.coam.org.uk SATURDAY 7 TO SUNDAY MAY 22 COOKHAM FESTIVAL CHALK THE WALK The Causeway, Cookham Decorate the causeway across the Moor with pavement art. Register at The Little Bookshop (open Tuesday to Sunday) for £1 www.cookhamfestival.co.uk SUNDAY MAY 8 COOKHAM FESTIVAL FAMILY CONCERT WITH WINDSOR AND MAIDENHEAD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Sir Bernard Miller Centre, Cookham Lock, Odney Ln SL6 9SR 2.30pm www.cookhamfestival.co.uk SUNDAY MAY 8 BABY BROADWAY Wycombe Swan, St Mary St, High Wycombe HP11 2XE Interactive family concert for 0-8 years. 10am and 11.15am. www.wycombeswan.co.uk MONDAY MAY 9 COOKHAM FESTIVAL TEDDIES MUSIC CLUB Briggs Room, Parish Centre, Cookham 10am and 11am Book directly at www.teddiesmusicclub.co.uk www.cookhamfestival.co.uk MONDAY MAY 9 MINI MONDAY Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB

Plant sunflower seeds, play in the mud kitchen, stories and more 10am-12pm ages 2-4. www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ event-listings FRIDAY MAY 13 COOKHAM FESTIVAL KATIE COX AND THE MOTION OF THE OCEAN Sir Bernard Miller Centre, Cookham Lock, Odney Ln SL6 9SR Children’s cantata commissioned by the Cookham Festival written by local musician and composer Rob Castell and performed by children from local Primary schools. 4pm and 6pm www.cookhamfestival.co.uk SATURDAY MAY 14 COOKHAM FESTIVAL SLAPPING SKINS DRUM WORKSHOP Pinder Hall, Lower Rd, Cookham SL6 9HF African drumming workshop with Aaron Meli. 10am: Under 7s 10:30am: Children 7 and upwards 11:30am: Suitable for all ages www.cookhamfestival.co.uk SATURDAY 14 AND SUNDAY MAY 15 OUTDOOR THEATRE Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB Wind in the Willows 11am The Importance of Being Earnest 3pm Bring your own chair or picnic rug Tickets for the show also give admission to the museum’s grounds and gardens for the day www.ticketsource.co.uk/red-kite-theatre MONDAY MAY 16 OPEN DAY Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Drop in, donate, explore our tranquil centre. 10am-12pm www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ event-listings TUESDAY 17 TO SATURDAY MAY 21 THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME Wycombe Swan, St Mary St, High Wycombe HP11 2XE 11+ years www.wycombeswan.co.uk

Blossom Ballet For a FREE taster class or for further information please contact Lucy:

07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com

B l o s s o m Ba l l e t

For more information please email bernice@littlelearnersuk.com or call us on 07944478517 familiesonline.co.uk

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is about having lots of fun and making new friends. Classes in Windsor throughout the week and at the weekends Families Thames Valley East

What’s On? FRIDAY MAY 20 NATURE TOTS Woolley Firs, Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ Outdoor nature discovery for pre-schoolers 10am - 11.30am Booking essential www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nature-tots-woolley-firsmaidenhead

All details correct at the time of going to press. Please do remember to check online for up-to-date information and remember that in most cases you will need to book. SATURDAY 28 AND SUNDAY MAY 29 ROMAN GLADIATORS Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB Standard admission applies. www.coam.org.uk MONDAY MAY 30

SUNDAY MAY 22 COOKHAM FESTIVAL OVEYS FARM FAMILY CONCERT Oveys Farm, High Street SL6 9SQ Enjoy a relaxed BBQ and refreshments in the grounds of Ovey’s Farm. 3pm www.cookhamfestival.co.uk MONDAY MAY 23 MINI MONDAY FOR MINDERS Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Activity morning and networking opportunity. Theme: Spring changes 10am-12pm ages 2-4. www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ event-listings SATURDAY MAY 28 TO SUNDAY JUNE 5 YOUNG FARMERS WEEK Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX Don’t miss out on the chance to become an Odds Farm Park accredited Young Farmer, by taking part in a host of farm-themed activities and challenges! www.oddsfarm.co.uk SATURDAY MAY 28 TO SUNDAY JUNE 5 JUBILEE JAMBOREE Windsor Castle Learning Centre, Windsor Castle SL4 1NJ Bring a picnic, create some Jubilee crafts and learn about ‘Our Platinum Queen’ Free upon admission to the Castle SATURDAY MAY 28 TO SUNDAY JUNE 5 BIRDS AND BEASTS TRAIL Waddesdon Manor National Trust, Aylesbury HP18 0JH Normal grounds admission applies Birds and Beasts trail £3.50 10am-5pm www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/may-half-term SATURDAY MAY 28 TO SUNDAY JUNE 5 COLOURSCAPE Waddesdon Manor National Trust, Aylesbury HP18 0JH Normal grounds admission applies Adult £6, Child £4 10.30am-4.30pm, last entry 3.50-4pm ticket With live music 11am-3.30pm Quiet times 10.30-10.50am and 3.30-3.50pm www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/colourscape

POP UP PLAY VILLAGE - WITH A PRINCESS Cox Green Scout Hut SL6 3ED Ice Queen visits, singing, bubbles and making crowns. 10.15am -11.30am www.popupplayvillage.co.uk/organiser/ maidenheadmarlow MONDAY MAY 30 FAMILY FUN DAY Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Theme: Exploring the senses 10am-12.30pm or 1.30-4pm www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ event-listings TUESDAY MAY 31 AND WEDNESDAY JUNE 1 DROP OFF DAY Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Theme: Exploring the senses 10am-4pm www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ event-listings TUESDAY 31 MAY TO SATURDAY JUNE 4 PRIVATE PEACEFUL Wycombe Swan, St Mary St, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk

watches on a tablet, we guarantee you’ll love every tune. 1pm and 5pm www.norden.farm FRIDAY JUNE 3 OLD MACDONALD AND THE THREE PIGS PLUS… Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead SL6 4PF 11.30am www.norden.farm FRIDAY JUNE 3 FAMILY FUNDAY TO CELEBRATE JUBILEE Oaken Grove Park, Maidenhead, SL6 6EU 2pm - 6pm FRIDAY 3 TO SUNDAY JUNE 5 JUBILEE JOUST Stonor Park, Henley-on-Thames RG9 6HF Medieval Jousting. Plus falconry displays, archery and Tumblestone Hollow adventure playground 10am - 5pm www.stonor.com/events/medieval-jousting SATURDAY JUNE 4 JUBILEE PICNIC IN THE PARK Longwalk, Windsor Castle SL4 1NJ Music and cars from the 7 decades of the Queen’s reign. Starts 12pm, bring picnic, free event MONDAY JUNE 6

MINI MONDAY Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Create sparkly butterflies, play in the mud kitchen, stories and more TUESDAY MAY 31 10am-12pm ages 2-4. TERRIFIC TUESDAY www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ PleasePark, find below aevent-listings proof of your advertisement for the Chiltern Open Air Museum, Newland Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles HP8 4AB 2019 issue (No. 101) of Families TVE. Mar/April Standard admission applies. TUESDAY JUNE 7 Themed family crafts and activities. BABY MASSAGE IS CORRECT especially 11am-3.30pm Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION Highfield Lane, Maidenhead SL6 3PF www.coam.org.uk 0-8 month babies. Course of 4 sessions starts dates, telephone numbers and addresses. Other options available for older babies www.mindbodyandbump.co.uk/product/newborn

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June

Any changes need to be made at this stage. Any further amendments will be charged THURSDAY JUNE 9 for. WEDNESDAY JUNE 1 TO SUNDAY JUNE 5

AS YOU LIKE IT JUBILEE JOUST Please contact us by return to amend or approve your Stonor either Park, Henley-on-Thames RG9 6HF Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey KT8 9AU Bring a chair and a picnic. advertisement. www.hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace/whats-on/ www.stonor.com/events/as-you-like-it jubilee-joust THURSDAY JUNE 2 POP DIVAS LIVE Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead SL6 4PF 2 hours of non-stop hits. Whether you’re a mum or dad who listens on the radio or a little diva who

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

SUNDAY JUNE 12 MORGAN AND WEST: UNBELIEVABLE SCIENCE Wycombe Swan, St Mary St, High Wycombe HP11 2XE 2pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk

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What’s On?

If you’d like your event featured please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with details. MONDAY JUNE 13 OPEN DAY Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Drop in, donate, explore our tranquil centre. 10am-12pm www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ event-listings

MONDAY JUNE 20 MINI MONDAY FOR MINDERS Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB Activity morning and networking opportunity. Theme: Butterflies 10am-12pm ages 2-4. www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ event-listings

MONDAY 13 TO FRIDAY JUNE 17 FAMILY EVENING POND DIP Iver Environment Centre SL0 0EB 6-7pm www.iverenvironmentcentre.org/what-we-do/ event-listings TUESDAY 14 TO SATURDAY JUNE 18 SHAKESPEARE’S MACBETH Stubbings, Henley Rd, Maidenhead SL6 6QL 7.30pm SATURDAY 18 AND SUNDAY JUNE 19 MARLOW MOVES Higginson Park, Marlow SL7 1AW Family music festival with child-friendly workshops www.zoomevents.co.uk/marlow-moves-musicfestival SUNDAY 19 JUNE SUMMER SOLSTICE PADDLE Dinton Activity Centre, Sandford Lane RG10 0SU Age 8+ £25 www.dinton-pastures.co.uk/activities/guidedactivities/

THURSDAY JUNE 23 AS YOU LIKE IT Waddesdon Manor National Trust, Aylesbury HP18 0JH Gates open 6pm Adult £20.50, Child £11 www.waddesdon.org.uk/whats-on/as-you-like-it TUESDAY JUNE 28 TO SUNDAY JULY 3 HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA Riverside, Henley, RG9 2LY Free to wander up the towpath and take your own picnic www.hrr.co.uk

Upcoming WEDNESDAY 6 TO SUNDAY JULY 10 HENLEY FESTIVAL Black tie festival celebrating the best of UK and International music and arts. Family Sunday (July 10) has lots to offer children. www.henley-festival.co.uk SATURDAY JULY 9 FI FEST Forest Green Road, Maidenhead SL6 2NS The Ultimate Family Friendly Music Extravaganza. 12pm-10.30pm SATURDAY 23 TO SUNDAY JULY 24 MAIDENHEAD FESTIVAL Kidwells Park, Maidenhead SL6 7ED The family-focused event will feature music, fairground, stalls and side shows Free admission. www.mheadfestival.weebly.com

SATURDAY JULY 2 TROPICANA NIGHTS 80S - KIDS EDITION Wycombe Swan, St Mary St, High Wycombe HP11 2XE An afternoon of pure 80s music and dancing for you and your kids. 1pm www.wycombeswan.co.uk SATURDAY JULY 2

SUNDAY 19 AND MONDAY JUNE 20 IN THE NIGHT GARDEN LIVE Wycombe Swan, St Mary St, High Wycombe HP11 2XE www.wycombeswan.co.uk

BOULTERS TO BRAY SWIM Historic Maidenhead swim 1.4 and 2.8km options downstream. Age 15+ www.boulterstobrayswim.org

Clubs, Classes and Activities If you are looking for a new club for your child, want to help them run off some excess energy, or just keep them entertained, below are some great suggestions for you to check out! When you call, please don’t forget to say you saw them in Families Thames Valley East Magazine.

The Jelly Lounge An Award-winning Restaurant & Soft Play Plus: • Weekly Baby Group meet ups • Baby weigh-ins • Baby, Toddler & Children’s Parties • Teen Parties • Gender Reveal • Private Hire • Booking is recommended. www.thejellylounge.co.uk 01753290175 contact@thejellylounge.co.uk

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Braywick Sprites Braywick Sprites stay and play and sport sessions. Sprites develops social and physical skills and school readiness. Sessions with our outstanding PE teacher run on Mondays and Fridays 9.30-10.15 and 10.30-11.15. Email pe@braywickcourtschool.org.uk for information.

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

Families Thames Valley East

Food

Exploring different cultures through food

By Fola Williams Food! Such an important part of life, isn’t it? Are you a family of foodies who are interested in exploring culture through food? Here are some ideas to get you started on exploring the tastes and culture of Africa.

Specialist businesses are a great way to try a delectable selection of Africaninspired condiments, food and drink. DVees www.dvees.com Providing a luxurious taste of West Africa, DVees offers carefully crafted food and drink products that either take you down memory lane or introduce the unique and vibrant flavours of West Africa to you. Their signature mocktail DVees chapman is simply to die for, with perfectly combined ingredients that bring nothing but absolute refreshment.

For a window into colourful food prep ideas, Instagram has some inspirational bloggers and creators showcasing a variety of authentic cultural dishes, as well as African lifestyle. These are some of my favourites: Yemisi @sisi_yemmie

Ronke Edoho @9jafoodie

Yemisi delights followers with incredible plating and flavour combinations, as well as general lifestyle content. You can download her menu planner to organise and simplify your life for less than £10. Even better, follow her to a local Lagosian market as she shops for ingredients on her YouTube channel.

Follow Ronke Edoho for recipes and meal inspiration. She also runs @loseitnigerian for a more healthconscious view of cooking Nigerian food.

Jollofcode @jollofcode

Ghanakitchen @ghanakitchen

For the green-fingered, follow jollofcode and see how to grow Nigerian vegetables and spices such as okra, ata rodo (scotch bonnet peppers) and garden egg, which you’ll be pleased to hear is not an actual egg but a vegetable that can be either eaten raw or used to make stew!

Zoe runs live cooking workshops on @ghanakitchen where you enjoy an immersive experience in cooking Ghanaian food. Her shop, though momentarily closed, sells amazing spice blends that provide a wholesome introduction to authentic West African flavours.

Subscribe You could also try food subscription boxes from a different culture. Cook with Pika (www.cookwithpika. co.uk) makes it super easy to cook Nigerian by including several ingredients in the right proportions as well as simple recipes and cooking instructions in their boxes. They also have delicious vegetarian alternatives to some of our traditional dishes.

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

Puffpuff Ministry www.puffpuffministry.co.uk The puff puff connoisseurs make puffy dough balls aka puff puff, like doughnuts but better! With flavours and toppings such as Oreo, Kinder Bueno and Lotus Biscoff syrup, they’re the perfect snack or dessert to follow a good hearty meal. Alhaji Suya www.alhajisuya.com If you can handle the heat, the spicy meat snack known as suya, is often grilled with a blend of spices over an open fire giving it a distinct smoky flavour that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Suya can be made with different meats (beef, chicken or lamb) based on preference and is often served with a blend of dry peppers, onions and tomato slices.

Food Festivals Keep an eye for any African Food Festivals in your area. They are a great way to sample a wide variety of African food and drink as well as some music! Failing that, the world food aisle at the supermarket might just unearth some gems which can be used to cook meals following simple recipes online.

Fola Williams is proprietor of Sheni and Teni (www.sheniandteni.com) which offers diverse books, toys and games for kids.

familiesonline.co.uk

Book Club

With the summer holidays looming, now is a great time to start thinking about holiday reads. Even if you’re not heading to a beach or looking for ways to pass the time on a long plane or train journey, reaching for a good book allows children to have all sorts of adventures from the comfort of the sofa. This month, Rachel Bailey speaks to Nicola Skinner, whose new book Giant is being touted as her most brilliant book yet. High praise for an author whose previous novels include the award-winning Bloom. What made you take the leap from journalism to becoming a published author? It wasn’t particularly premeditated. One day I was sitting in the garden with my daughter and I had the first beginnings of a story (that turned out to be Bloom.) I started, slowly, to write it down and explore it, and I made many mistakes along the way. I’d had ideas before, and abandoned them. What was different with Bloom was that, at the back of my mind, I was two years away from my 40th birthday, and there was a voice that kept telling me: ‘It’s now or never.’ Because I’d wanted to be a writer since I was a child. So basically – a deadline!

Your first book, Bloom, boasts some beautiful, unexpected illustrations. How did you choose an illustrator to work with? They are stunning, aren’t they? But I can’t claim any credit for that; it was my publishers, HarperCollins Children’s Books, who knew of Flavia Sorrentino and paired her with my work. She has illustrated and done the cover design for all four of my books now, and she just keeps getting better, I think.

Bloom has a strong environmental theme and the climate crisis is something many children are very concerned about, with great role models such as Greta Thunberg leading the way. How would you encourage young readers to find their voice? I think we’re living through a very difficult time, but the only thing that makes it bearable is it’s also a golden time in terms of understanding the power of protest. Go online, find local community protest and action groups, connect with like-minded children, and see if your school can help.

We love that your books feature strong, feisty, rebellious female characters. Are they based on anyone you know? They’re not based on any one person, familiesonline.co.uk

but I count myself very lucky because I have lots of incredible women and girls in my life, who inspire me every day. I also think that nowadays, girls feel more empowered to be whoever they want to be, and perhaps that feeds into my books. Having said all of that, I do love boy characters too, and always make sure that in each book I have a strong boy/girl friendship.

Do you have a favourite heroine in particular from books you enjoyed reading as a child? I really, really loved Harriet in Louise Fitzhugh’s Harriet the Spy. I thought she was just wonderful – curious about the world, fiercely independent, very strong, but capable of making mistakes, and feeling loss, too. She’s always watching people and writing about them, and that’s something I love to do, too.

Your heroine in Storm is ‘born raging’ what inspired you to write her story? The thing about Frankie, my heroine in Storm, is that I don’t think she’s any different to any other eleven-year-old girl, in real life. She has moods, and hormones, and occasionally rallies against the injustices of her life, and I think that’s incredibly common. But I don’t often see that sort of child on the page; fictional girls at that age are just very sweet and endearing, which are both wonderful qualities, but don’t reflect the entirety of a child, don’t always feel real to me. After becoming a mother to my daughter I became aware of how much parents try to control their children’s emotions. I suppose I wanted to explore a child who had emotions which are difficult to control, sometimes can be messy, spill out into the world, are challenging to process, and show how wonderful and beautiful that can occasionally be, because there can be real strength there.

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 01628 829761

What’s your favourite way to spend time with your family?

I love doing anything and everything – being cosy at home, or seeing friends, or doing something adventurous, like kayaking and swimming in a river. To be honest, it just depends on how much sleep I’ve managed to get in the night before!

WIN Families have two copies of Giant to give away! For your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to competitions@familiestveast.co.uk

What is the name of Nicola’s new book? A Giant B Bloom C Storm Closing date for entries is 26 June 2022 Giant is available from 23 June in hardback priced £12.99. www.nicola-skinner.com @skinnernic @skinnerwrites Families Thames Valley East

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