Families Thames Valley East

Thames Valley East July/August 2012 - Issue 61

Tel: 01628 828258 Email: montessorischool@aol.com School Lane, Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 3QY We are a very well-established Montessori Nursery set in a once Victorian primary school at the heart of the picturesque village of Littlewick Green.

Ages 12 months - 5 years After School & Holiday Club for children 1 to 8 years.

Operating a 43 and 48 week year Open 8am-6pm Full days or morning and afternoon sessions Covering the EYFS & Montessori curriculum Quality day care in a warm and friendly environment Football & Multi Sport coaching available for ages 3-5 Mouse Wizards (I.C.T.) for the 3-5 year olds Drama, Music & Movement Classes Free funded sessions for 3-5 year olds

EATON TUTORS

"an investment in knowledge always pays the best interest" ~ Benjamin Franklin Services include: 11+ Preparation, 1 to 1 Tutoring, KS1,KS2 and KS3, checking homework, beginners Arabic, learning English as a foreign language, common entrance exams, verbal/non-verbal reasoning practice and IELTS. Work with children with learning difficulties Ages 5-14

Tel: 07535522755 Web: www.etontutors.com Email: info@etontutors.com

The really useful magazine for parents of children between 0 and 12 Packed with information and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham

Where your little ones blossom into independent confident learners

• Poppies is owned by two qualified childcare practitioners with over 30 years’ experience.

• We carefully select our dedicated childcare team who provide an outstanding level of care to children aged birth to five years.

• Children are cared for in beautiful settings, a home away from home.

• Excellent Parent Carer Partnerships • Freshly cooked organic food.

• Large safe and secure nursery garden.

“I will always be most grateful for the most wonderful settings you have created and for meeting my childrenʼs appropriate needs. Thank you and well done.

Poppies will always hold a special place for me and as I watch my children progress I know where it all began.” K.H. (parent) Poppies Marlow Crown Road Marlow Bucks SL7 2QG Tel: 01628 487772

Poppies Beaconsfield Harrias Barn Hedgerley Lane Beaconsfield Bucks HP9 2SD Tel. 01494 677116

Poppies Bourne End Furlong Road Bourne End Bucks SL8 5AE Tel: 01628 521522

www.poppiesdaynursery.com

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JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

News & Info

Cover Photography by: www.roblingphotography.com

in this

issue

All about fun!

The ultimate experience in children’s entertainment for 2-13 years Interactive party games Hi-energy action rhymes Multi-coloured parachute Assault course Mini indoor football Limbo dancing Fairies and pirates dressing-up adventure Sweets, stickers and prizes galore!

Disco parties Going Home Presents

For further information contact Maxine Tel: 020 8573 6288 Mob: 07814 605175 www.chuckleparties.co.uk

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News & Info Education News Clubs & Classes News Summer Camps Explained A to Z of summer fun London 2012 Olympics Health News Is your child ready for school?

Childcare Readers Offers & Competitions Time Out Relationships Make your own Mosaic Eds Reading Room Bumps & Babes: Support for mums Mums Who Mean Business Classifieds

web: FamiliesTVEast.co.uk tel: 01628 627586 fax: 08717 146 305 (calls cost 10p/min) e-mail: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editor: Claire Winter circulation: 19,000 next issue: September/October 2012 due out: September 1 featuring: Schools; Clubs & Classes copy/advertising deadline: July 20

twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE

Apologies to Her Majesty the Queen and any readers who spotted my error in the last issue. Thank you your Majesty for a fabulous sixty years and I hope all our readers enjoyed the Diamond Jubilee festivities too.

Blossom Ballet

For a FREE taster class or for further information please contact Lucy: 07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com

Blossom Ballet Enrolling now for the Summer Term and Summer School.

Magical Summer classes for 18 months - 6 years are Tuesday 14th - Thursday 16th August.

Workshops by the English National Ballet for 4-6 years are on Friday 17th August.

Blossom Ballet is about having lots of fun and making new friends.

Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Birch Hill and Maidenhead.

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YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A £100 OF TOYS! Here at Families magazine we’d like to know what you think of us! So just answer some easy questions about our magazine and you will get automatically entered in to a prize draw to win £100 of Mattel toys.

We get lots of feedback about how useful our magazine and website are, but we’d like to know a bit more. So if you can spare two minutes (it really only takes that long!) please go to www.surveymonkey.com/s/7JSTGQB - and if you enter your email address at the end you will be entered into a prize draw to win one of 5 family games bundles from Mattel worth over £100! Please remember to put that you read the Thames Valley East edition of Families - there are Families magazines all over the country and this survey is for all of them!

JULY/AUGUST 2012

Welcome to our special 10th anniversary edition. We have ten great reader offers and competitions in this issue to celebrate this momentous event (p20-21).

A really big and genuine thank you to all our loyal readers and advertisers, we really couldn’t do it without you.

I also wanted to dedicate this issue to my father, who is battling with cancer at the moment. You inspired me to become a journalist and later on a magazine editor. Thank you for everything…

Please like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/familiesTVE or follow us on twitter @familiestve.You will be the first to hear about all our competitions and what is coming up in the next magazine…

HEATHERWOOD HOSPITAL SAVED Heatherwood Hospital in Ascot is to remain open following months of campaigning. The Heatherwood and Wexham Park Hospital Trust announced in May that the future of Heatherwood has been secured 'for years to come' – and there are no plans to close any of the existing hospital sites in Ascot, Maidenhead, Windsor or Slough.

The council says that residents will have the opportunity in the coming months to comment on proposals outlined in the Shaping the Future programme covering plans for a range of services including minor injuries and rehabilitation services.

Full public consultation will be held in the autumn (from September to December) on proposed specific changes.

WINDSOR AND MAIDENHEAD SURE START CENTRES TO SURVIVE BUT UNION PROTESTS AGAINST JOB LOSSES The Royal Borough has announced that all the Sure Start children’s centres in Windsor and Maidenhead will remain open after a recent public consultation.

But GMB, the union for public sector workers is calling for a campaign to oppose the proposal, which will cut the budget of the centres by 43% and also result in the loss of 12 jobs.

There are nine Sure Start centres that provide services at 13 sites across Ascot, Windsor and Maidenhead. Other proposals include getting more volunteers to help run activities and charging a minimal fee for activities, whilst keeping them free for families on benefits.

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

News & Info FACE BRITAIN BREAKS A WORLD RECORD The Prince’s Foundation for Children and the Arts project Face Britain has been officially awarded the Guinness World RecordsTM title for the most artists working on the same art installation.

Pupils at Lauriston Primary School, Hackney, accepted the title on behalf of over 200,000 children and young people across the nation. They achieved this record-breaking feat by creating selfportraits and uploading them onto the Face Britain Online Gallery, brought to life

by PhotoBox. The children’s self-portraits were then combined to form an image of HM The Queen that was projected onto Buckingham Palace for 3 nights in April, to coincide with Her Majesty’s birthday.

To view the record breaking portrait collection visit the Face Britain Online Gallery on www.childrenandarts.org.uk

SUMMER NANNIES AT SMILEYS! Smileys offer quality candidates and service to all their clients. They have been established for 25 years and pride themselves on providing nannies of a very high calibre.

Please give Catherine, their childcare consultant, a ring if you need help this summer. Catherine will be concentrating on providing “Summer nannies/mother’s helps and After School Nannies” to families requiring childcare whilst they continue to work through the holidays. “Babysitters” are also available throughout the Berkshire and Buckinghamshire areas.

At Smileys they personally interview all their nannies, each of whom are Ofsted Registered and CRB checked and their qualifications are also vigorously checked.

To register please email enquiries@smileys-childcare.co.uk or visit their website www.smileys-childcare.co.uk, 01628 675442.

A DIFFERENT WAY TO LEARN Heroes Animal Education Centre is situated on the Bath Road in Maidenhead in the Old Shire Horse Centre.

The centre is for young people aged 8 to 18 years old who have left mainstream education and are being home-educated or flexi-schooled.

Often these pupils have lost confidence in their ability to learn. By approaching education differently the centre allows them to rediscover the fun and value of learning again.

The centres unusual approach gets the young people involved in running the farm.

Its aim is to teach them how to care for the animals and learn other life skills that they can take back into the outside world.

For children that are interested in animals they also run Animal Rangers sessions during the school holidays and weekends. The rangers get to visit the centre on a regular basis and have handson experience of the animals. There are Shetland ponies, alpacas, goats, sheep, pigs, piglets, lots of fluffy animals and reptiles.

The sessions run from 3 to 5pm on Saturdays and are for children aged 8 and over. The cost per session is £15.00.

Visit: www.heroesberkshire.co.uk or: www.animalrangers.co.uk

Ascot, King Edwards Hall on Thursdays BOOK NOW for advertising in our Sept/Oct issue Due out September 1st email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Laura’s Little Treasures Children's pre-filled party bags luxury paper party bags • classic bags character party bags • sweetie cones!

Free delivery on orders over £20 (within a 5 mile radius of Wooburn Green)

www.lauraslittletreasures.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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News EXCITING NEW WAY TO CAPTURE MEMORIES OF YOUR KIDS

EXTRA HELP IS ONLY A PHONE CALL AWAY

The Dinky Fingerprint Company has launched a great new product. A lovely range of contemporary glass keepsake tiles, which will capture the size of your baby’s or child’s hands or feet forever.

Mummy’s Maid is celebrating two years of providing short and longterm household help, cleaning and childcare for busy mums in the local area.

The business is going from strength to strength, says founder Kez Luckett. “2011 was a fantastic year for us, we were nominated for several awards including the Mum and Working Awards and were finalists in the Nectar Business Small Business Awards in their start-up of the year category.” So what has made Mummy’s Maid so popular? They have lots of staff on their books, who work for a minimum of two hours, which makes the service very flexible. Each of their maids are also fully vetted and undergo an enhanced CRB check, reference checks, as well as a face to face interview, which provides clients with peace of mind.

Two of their most popular services are the New Baby Service which offers mums a chance to relax and enjoy their newborn without the pressures of household chores and the Busy Professional Service which helps support mums who are their juggling career, household chores and motherhood. For more information on Mummy’s Maid and all the services they offer please visit their website www.mummysmaid.co.uk or call 0845 463 0075.

The tiles display a life size print of your child’s hands and feet and make a gorgeous new baby gift, christening or birthday present. They are 15cm by 15cm and come in blue, pink, violet and grey (colour shade may vary slightly) They also offer a stunning range of personalised silver fingerprint jewellery too.Visit their brand new website for more information and to see all their new products. www.dinkyfingerprint.co.uk; Tel: 01628 623386 SPECIAL OFFER: Sign up to their newsletter by emailing sales@dinkyfingerprint and quote ‘Families Magazine’ to receive a £5 online discount code. (Valid until 31st Aug 2012)

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

At Herries, ...... every child is an individual and every child is known and loved.

Come and visit the school at one of our monthly Open Mornings or arrange an individual appointment.

See our website for full details:

www.herries.org.uk Herries Preparatory School, Dean Lane, Cookham Dean, Berkshire SL6 9BD Tel: 01628 483350 Email: office@herries.org.uk

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Education News MAIDENHEAD EMBROILED IN CONTROVERSY OVER ‘NEW’ SCHOOL SITE

HOLIDAY REVISION TO GO! Boost your child’s 11+, GCSE or A-Level results with intensive, small group courses in various subjects with Fleet Tutors. Their students experience fast paced and focused progress with the vast majority achieving an increase of at least one grade. Students share the invaluable resource of an expert subject tutor and the benefit of having questions answered immediately, yet course fees are considerably less than most one-to-one sessions. Summer 2012 courses will be held in West London and Farnborough, Hampshire.

They also offer a Live Online Tutoring service delivered by the highest performing tutors across the country with established track records of tutoring online. The service is “gimmick free” and enables students anywhere in the world to have access to the UK’s leading private tutors, bringing the British education system and the National Curriculum to students anywhere.

For information and bookings call 0845 644 5452 or email Clientsupport@fleet-tutors.co.uk

HERRIES OFFERS WRAP AROUND CARE FOR NURSERY AND RECEPTION Herries Prep school is now offering wrap around care for Nursery and Reception children. Children aged from two years and nine months onwards can now stay at the school from 8am until 6pm, an invaluable resource for working parents.

“We didn’t rush into this decision as these young children are very precious to us and we want to offer them the best quality care,” says headmistress Sophie Green. “We obviously hope that they will become part of the Herries family and stay with us until they are 11.”

As many locals will know, Herries is located in an idyllic setting in the heart of Cookham Dean and is renowned for its family atmosphere and strong pastoral care. It also has a rich cultural heritage and is the former home of Kenneth Grahame, the author of “Wind in the Willows”, something which all the pupils are very proud of. The comedian Griff Rhys Jones visited the school earlier this year as part of a documentary celebrating the 80th anniversary of the author’s death.

“We treat every child as an individual at Herries and encourage them to excel at whatever they are good at,” says Ms Green. “We believe that the happiness of pupils is very sacrosanct - a happy pupil is a pupil who learns without distraction.”

For more information visit www.herries.org.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Many local residents in Maidenhead are protesting about the use of Green Belt land to build new schools. Oldfield Primary School has had approval to move from Chiltern Road to a green field site in Bray Road. Residents have pledged to fight this decision in the courts. Proposals have also been put forward to move Furze Platt Senior School to the Green Belt at Spencer’s Farm. Debbie Downey a local parent and resident puts forward her point of view about the proposed Furze Platt move.

My youngest child is currently at Furze Platt Infant School and my eldest will be moving up to Furze Platt Senior School in September.

At the moment the three Furze Platt schools occupy the same site, separated by a shared playing field. This set up provides continuity for the children and helps to foster a sense of community within the area.

In March of this year, Furze Platt Senior School in conjunction with Summerleaze Limited, submitted a proposal to the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead to re-locate Furze Platt Senior School to Green Belt land (Spencer’s Farm) between Maidenhead and Cookham. To fund this move they intend to build 700 new homes; 380 on the Furze Platt school site and playing fields and a further 320 alongside the new school at Spencer’s Farm.

This news came as a shock. The proposals were kept under wraps and no views were sought; nor was any consultation with the local community undertaken. Even the Junior and Infant Schools were not made aware of the proposals before their release.

The relocation of the school will break the close relationship between the three schools. The Junior and Infant Schools will be left with reduced playing fields and surrounded by high density housing, which will restrict any future expansion plans.

Also, an additional 700 houses will create greater stress on the local infrastructure. I understand the need for more housing but I think that Green Belt land should only be used as a last resort.

Alternative solutions should be sought that allow for the redevelopment of the school on the existing site. It might take longer but this will ultimately provide a solution that enhances rather than detracts from the Furze Platt community.

The Maidenhead North Action Group (MNAG) has been formed by local residents to oppose the development and its inclusion in the Borough Local Plan. We have presented a petition with over 2300 signatures to the local council. We feel that a developer should not be able to win over the local authority by promising a new school in exchange for permission to build 700 homes on Green Belt land. To find out more, visit the MNAG website at www.mnag.org.uk or email info@mnag.org.uk.

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Clubs & Classes GO MAD FOR A SUMMER OF SPORT Whilst Team GB will be making final preparations for an amazing Summer of sporting events, MAD Academy want the Borough’s youngsters to join in the athletic fun.

They’ve produced a whole new set of songs that teach babies and toddlers about the movements that are required in some of the sports, based on their developmental level. The instructors will lead the youngsters in practising these moves so that sports such as swimming, cycling and athletics will become familiar.

All of these activities, which are carefully structured in classes to adhere to the Early Learning Goals, will take place during the summer months culminating in a final sporting event at the end of the term.

Classes run in Maidenhead on Thursdays and Fridays at Boyn Hill Cricket Club and throughout the Royal Borough. The class instructors are highly trained individuals with a background in music, movement and child development, who love sharing their passion for music and education. g

Singin

Laugh

ing

Giggling

Dancing

Jigglin

g

g

Bouncin

Wiggling

ACTING FUN DURING THE SUMMER AT REDROOFS

ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM

Clapping

Music & movement class for the under 5’s Sessions in Maidenhead, Cookham, Pinkneys Green, Taplow & Burnham STARTING SEPTEMBER 2012 Call Julie Zoom on 07740 431377

We’re going to the moon...

REDROOFS THEATRE SCHOOL 26 Bath Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4JT and Redroofs Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, SL6 3QY

SUMMER HOLIDAY COURSES ON STAGE 23rd - 27th July - Revolting Children ages 6-10 and 11-14 30th July - 3rd Aug - You're a Star - West End musicals ages 7-13 6th - 10th Aug - Let’s put on a Summer Panto - ages 7-13 28th - 31st Aug - Let’s Make a TV Soap ages 9-15

*** BOOK NOW *** SATURDAY AFTERNOON MUSICAL THEATRE SCHOOL Age 6-8 years and 9-13 years SATURDAY ACTING SCHOOL Age 8-11 and 12 -16+ WEEKDAY CLASSES Dance drama and musical theatre • Baby-adults. Production and shows

Agency representation Pupils currently appearing in Shrek, Matilda West End, Oliver tour, TV theatre and films.

FULL TIME DAY SCHOOL AND PERFORMING ARTS 6TH FORM yrs 6-13 inc.

Now enrolling for all courses Call us: 01628 674092 • Email us: info@redroofs.co.uk Find us on Facebook and Twitter

www.redroofs.co.uk

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

If you’d like to come along to a fully active session where learning for both big and little people is fun, then please contact Emma on 0118 979 2695, or Kate (Windsor) on 01753 830162. Or see the website www.madacademy.com for details of Summer classes and courses during August.

Redroofs Theatre School in Maidenhead leads the way in theatre arts training for young performers.

The school has 39 years of summer holiday courses under its belt and this year it is offering an exciting 4-week programme of weeklong courses and Saturday classes to keep your children busy during the summer. Keen young performers can keep fit and inspired and fufill their performing ambitions under the guidance of their experienced team of directors and performing arts teachers.

The course are suitable for children of all abilities, from total beginners to experienced performers, who are aged 6 to 15 years old. The courses are conveniently based in Maidenhead on the A4 or in Littlewick Green, just a few miles away.

Revolting Children week (ages 6-10 and 11-14 years), You’re a Star week (713 years), Let’s put on a Summer Panto (ages 7-13), are all based at their Littlewick venue. Plus the kids can cool off in their heated pool set in beautiful gardens.

Let’s Make a TV Soap (9-15 years), also at Littlewick Green and offers an ideal experience for young actors to expand their experience in front of a camera and includes lunchtime swimming.

Redroofs Summer Saturdays offers musical theatre classes once a week from 1.30 to 4.00pm throughout the holidays. These are open to new children as well as those already at Redroofs. Each Saturday will include drama, games, singing, dance and numbers from musical theatre shows. Each week will be different so if you have a holiday booked it won’t affect continuity.

The school also offers part-time courses and runs a full-time school and BTEC sixth form, years 6 to 13.They also offer agency representation to all their pupils and currently have children appearing in West End shows, on TV and in films. Pupils are currently appearing in Shrek and Matilda the musical: including Kerry Ingram, an Olivier award winner; Jaydon Vijn as Dodger and Alex Larder, as a gang member are in the current “Oliver” tour.

For more details or to book summer courses www.redroofs.co.uk or call 01628 674092.

SUMMER CAMP HAS KIDS BUILDING AND PROGRAMMING THEIR OWN ROBOTS Kids are firing up their imaginations and learning valuable new skills at FunTech’s summer camps.

The camp features challenges like the Lego NXT robot programming course where children aged 7+ are building working Lego robots and navigating them through challenge zones, competitive races and (simulated) bomb disposal missions! While they’re engrossed in the process of designing the ultimate robot, they’re also learning valuable ICT and programming skills.

Meanwhile, over on the FunTyper course a series of fun and creative games are teaching kids valuable touch-typing skills.

With more advanced courses as kids grow in confidence, FunTech’s summer camp equips kids for the future without them even knowing it!

To find out more about FunTech’s summer camps, visit their website at www.funtech.co.uk to see their full brochure. Call 01628 621216 or email info@funtech.co.uk to book.

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Summer Holiday Activities

Summer camps explained...

Struggling to decide what camp or activity to book for your children this summer? Let us break it down for you...

Residential or Day Camp?

Residential Camps are holidays where your child can stay during the holiday course, often further away from your home and sometimes including activities not available locally.

Day Camps are held at a local venue, where you can take your child on a daily basis. Times may vary but they are usually around 8.30am – 4pm with additional costs for early starts and later finishes.

What type of activity would suit your child?

Multi-activity holidays offer a selection of different activities every day, usually including a range of sports, creative or adventure activities – ideal for the child who does not want to attend a specialist course in a single activity.

Sports Coaching offer specialist courses in a single activity such as football, basketball, tennis, cricket or golf Outdoor adventure may involve one or more challenging activities such as abseiling, climbing, orienteering or zip wire. Centres offering this type of course may also offer watersports.

Creative arts courses may involve arts & crafts, pottery, sculpture, etc.

Performing arts courses may offer specialist or multi-activity courses in activities such as dance, drama, mime, singing or behind the scenes stagecraft.

Computer / Technology courses may be specialist courses or part of a multi activity programme including activities such as computer games, web design, programming, design and technical production skills.

Horse riding holiday courses are available at specialist riding centres offering full or half day courses in riding and stable management Watersports centres offer holiday courses in single activities such as canoeing, kayaking, sailing or windsurfing as well as multi watersports courses offering taster sessions in a range of activities.

What age group would be best?

Do you want your child mixing with a variety of ages? Would you prefer they were all roughly the same age? Check with the camp provider to see how the children attending are grouped – by age? by ability? by interest?

Lastly always see if you can talk to other kids and parents who have been on the camp, as always, the best form of testimonial is from those who have done it before you!

Check our website for a comprehensive list of activities and camps in the local area www.familiestveast.co.uk/summerfun

A fantas c and FUN way to encourage children to get ac ve and play tennis • Combines music, tennis and pictures into an interac ve learning ac vity • Weekly 50 minutes session available in various venues. Sign up for a single lesson or a course • Encourages co-ordina on, confidence and sportsmanship, while ge ng kids ac ve • Led by a LTA registered coach • Holiday camps available

21⁄2 – 6 year olds

For further informa on or to book a session call 0845 643 1173 or email: doug@teddytennis.com

www.teddytennis.com

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Summer Holidays An A to Z of Summer fun Looking for something to do to beat the boredom blues, check out our ideas to keep everyone busy all summer long…

A - Everyone’s favourite mousling, Angelina Ballerina, is coming to Wycombe Swan this summer (2–5 August).

It’s sure to be a hit with all little ballerinas, the magical show is packed full of singing and dancing: Angelina and her friends think their dreams have come true when Camembert Academy wins the opportunity to appear in their favourite TV programme 'Dancing With Mice!', but when the boys and the girls can’t agree what dance to do, it’s soon up to Angelina as Dance Captain to ensure that the show goes ahead.Visit wycombeswan.co.uk for more info.

B - Go for a bike ride with all the family.

Go Sky Rides are free, community bike rides, giving you a chance to get out and explore your local area. They’re led by a British Cycling-trained ride leader so you’re in safe hands, even if you’re a bit rusty. There are rides at four different E levels from traffic-free rides in parks FRE and on bike paths, to more challenging rides taking your cycling a bit further. This year Aylesbury and Slough are hosting a series of friendly neighbourhood Sky Ride Local rides. They’re all free to join, and it’s easy to register but places on Sky Ride Local rides are limited so register now at goskyride.com.

C - Head for the heights with some climbing. Rockclimbing is apparently one of the fastest-growing sports in Britain, and giving it a try makes for a great family day out. Like all the best family challenges it’s about supporting one another, learning new skills, encouraging people when they need it, and celebrating new-found abilities and courage. Family climbing courses abound – google to find one in your area – and most are for complete beginners and take children from about eight (although some specialise in working with younger children). Look for a course where you have a dedicated

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instructor: you’ll learn (amongst other things) how to belay (hold the ropes safely) and how to make the most of the rock’s features for your hands and feet. If you’re looking for a family challenge in a rainy period, look up climbing walls in your area and see if you can hire an instructor for a family session there instead. Try the Reading Climbing Centre (readingclimbingcentre.com) or The Climb in Amersham (01494 723 969). Longridge also has a 13m climbing wall, longridgeuk.org.

D - Dig up some hidden treasure with a metal detector. There’s something almost absurdly exciting about setting off with a metal detector and seeing what you’re going to turn up – even though it will, in all probability, be complete rubbish. Because there’s always that chance of finding treasure – or even, and this is almost as good, remnants of the way other people lived in the past. To use a metal detector effectively, you need to use a sweeping motion – and it’s best to go somewhere with plenty of space, perhaps where other interesting finds have been made. Children are just thrilled with the idea of a machine that goes bleep the whole time, and which might lead to some discovery. Another big plus is that this is an adventure anyone can enjoy – great for families with small kids in buggies or anyone in a wheelchair (though you need to chose your terrain wisely). For more information see ncmd.co.uk E - Explore The Natural History Museum at Tring (www.nhm.ac.uk/tring) and see if you can spot an elephant, the European bison (the heaviest land mammal in Europe) and lots, lots more. There are six galleries to explore, plus the E E FR discovery room, and family activities are planned for some days during the holidays.

What’s more entry to the museum is free.

JULY/AUGUST 2012

F - Follow the Sculpture trail at The Savill Garden daily from 1 August to 30 September. Enjoy exploring the Garden and see the display of innovative sculpture by following a trail through the beautiful and fragrant garden. There is something to appeal to all ages, from the abstract to the figurative and everything in between. All pieces will be available to purchase.

Standard Garden admission charges apply. www.theroyallandscape.co.uk G - Get out into the garden and turn it into an art studio. Summer’s the perfect time as you can set up your studio in the garden and there’s no mess inside! How about making an outdoor blackboard – all you need is some board, ideally marine plywood, cut to size and some blackboard paint, available from DIY E E FR or hardware stores. Once painted the board can be fixed to any outdoor wall, fence or shed. Keep some chalks in a waterproof box ready for drawing, writing or even using as a scoreboard. If it’s raining turn to page 27 to learn how to do your very own mosaic, with local artist Teresa Mills.

H - Hide some goodies around the house and garden, and have a treasure hunt. Make it as complicated or easy as you like – for example: find two different things beginning with each letter of a chosen word, or ten different red things, or even hide some marbles and get them to find 20. If your children are older, why not get them devise the clues and hide the treasures for each other or the younger children in the family?

I - Go to the Ice cream festival at Windsor Racecourse on August 20. Doors open at 3.30pm. First race at 5.30pm.

Great family fun near the end of the summer holidays and kids are FREE with a paying adult. So what are you waiting for… a chocolate, vanilla and a strawberry scoop please. Tickets £11.00. Tel: 01753 498400; windsor-racecourse.co.uk J - Join in the London 2012 Olympic celebrations, even if you don’t have a ticket.

Sports fans will be able to watch the Olympic Community Live event held in Kidwells Park in Maidenhead between July 27 and August 12. There will be a party feel in the park during the opening and closing ceremonies and movies will also be played in between events. Sports

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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Summer Holidays and community groups will also be on hand to give people the chance to have a go at different sports activities. Anyone wanting to sponsor or get involved with the event can contact steph.james@rbwm.gov.uk for details.

23rd July - 24th August St John's Beaumont, Old Windsor SL4 2JN

Tel: 07854 078 728

THIS NEW R! YEA for

om Youth ro ting new s, exci 10+ year es & FUN activiti Fridays.

email: hc_thegapclub@yahoo.co.uk

Find Thames Valley East on

Funky Youth Art and Craft Activities Ages 9-18 years - Explore creativity, try something new and make friends along the way...

A friendly and inviting space for teenagers in which to explore creativity, experiment with a variety of artistic materials to develop art portfolio/sketch books, design and make funky possessions, or work towards the nationally recognised Arts Award.

A truly unique experience with a wealth of new and inspiring ideas.

Workshops•Demonstrations•Master Classes•Quality Materials•Professional Artists•Courses•Projects•Art Award and... FUN! For detail of current workshops and masterclass sessions

phone 01628 687440 email: holidayclub@clairescourt.com or visit: www.clairescourt.com

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

L - Take a trip into London – see the dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum (nhm.ac.uk), check E E FR out fashions past at the Victoria & Albert Museum (vam.ac.uk) or get hands-on with all sorts of interactive displays at the Science Museum (sciencemuseum.org.uk). Entry to all three of these South Kensington Museums is free and if you get up early enough and drive in on a Sunday morning, the parking meters in surrounding residential streets are also free.

M - Find your way round the new Maize Maze at Odds Farm Park.

Open throughout the summer holidays, the maze offers a challenging and fun adventure for all ages! Sheep Racing also returns on a daily basis throughout the summer. If you guess the winning sheep you get to take home a medal! Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield. For more information, including special summer events and prices visitors should call 01628 520188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk.

N - Get the kids to nuture some nasturtiums! Plant some seeds at the start of the holidays and then encourage the children to tend to them over the summer. Wildflowers, sunflowers and E FRE cress are also easy to grow and show quick results.You could even make some cressheads – wash out eggshells and then draw on some crazy faces, googly eyes also work well; then wet a very small piece of cotton wool or tissue and place carefully in the bottom of an eggshell; cover with a layer of seeds and then place in the light; water them as the seeds grow; and finally, don’t forget to eat the cress, delicious in sandwiches or salad.

O - Get into the sporting spirit with an obstacle course or games day – challenge the kids to get through at least ten board games E (it’s a great way to clear out your cupboards, too) and then if FRE the weather’s good take it outside and set up an obstacle course – mark out a long jump, pull out the hula hoops, skipping ropes, balls or whatever else you’ve got in the shed, place around at ‘stations’ and on your marks, get set, go…

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

www.London-GB.com

Summer Camp 2012

K - Kick a football about at your local park, set up teams with your neighbors or other families and hold a five-a-side tournament. Or improve your skills the FA Tesco Skills E E FR Programme. It is a unique football coaching programme that gives 5 to 11 year olds the ability to get active, learn new skills and enjoy the game. They offer free holiday sessions, to find out more go to tescoskills.thefa.com

Summer Holidays P - Have a picnic. The Thames Valley is full of lots of lovely places to visit and hopefully you’ll get to lounge on a rug, whilst the kids get to run off some steam. Some of our favourite places are Hurley, the Burnham Beeches, Henley and Cookham. For lots more ideas, visit E FRE familiestveast.co.uk/picnics.

Q - Have a family quiz – let every competitor set ten or so questions, to find out who the real Mastermind of the family is. If E you get stuck for inspiration, check out funtrivia.com who FRE have a section for kids or triviaplaza.com.

R - Go to the races!

The Betfair Weekend Family Fun Day at Ascot Racecourse on Sunday 22 July promises to be a great day out for all the family (turn to page 20 to use our exclusive promotional code for £5 off the entry price).

The day will feature children’s TV favourites – Scotty the Ascot Mascot will be joined by Humungousaur and Four Arms from Ben 10, Thomas the Tank Engine and the Fat Controller, as well as Fergus Flanagan from My Supply Teacher is Magic. And everyone’s favourite pig, Peppa and her brother George, will be telling stories on the Bandstand. This year there’s also a new adventure area in the Old Paddock where children can pack in some fun with quad biking, fairground rides, climbing walls, land-train adventures and have their face painted. All activities, including face painting and fairground rides, are free of charge and ideal for under-10s. Go to ascot.co.uk for more details.

S - Sign up to the Summer reading challenge. Libraries across the UK are gearing up to introduce children to an imagination paradise that will keep them reading throughout the school summer holidays. Story Lab, the 2012 Summer Reading Challenge™ run by The Reading Agency, an independent charity, aims to inspire children to read in their holidays. With incentives and rewards, plus a certificate or medal if they complete the Challenge, children can sign up at your local library from the end of June. “Pop down to your local library and find out more about what's happening,” says Anne Sarrag, Summer Reading Challenge director, “and help your children discover a love of stories whilst they develop their reading skills over the summer holidays.” An interactive Story Lab website www.story-lab.org.uk launches this month, enabling children to talk about their favourite books, or follow the Summer Reading Challenge on Facebook.

T - Take a trip on a train at Chinnor and Princes Risborough railway. There are lots of special steaming days coming up over the summer, including the Annual Gala Day on August 5, when all available steam and diesel locomotives are in operation with a special timetable, and free vintage bus service available between Princes Risborough and Chinnor Stations. August 26 and 27 are Teddy Bear Days, when every child carrying a teddy bear can travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult; there’ll also be a hunt the bear quiz to enjoy. The railway is also open every Sunday and Bank Holiday through the holiday season, with cream teas available on the Sunday afternoon trains on July 1st, 15th, 29th and August 12th. For more info and to book call 07979 055366 or visit cprra.co.uk.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Play sessions for under-5s at the Phoenix Gymnastics Club Have fun in this fully equipped gym with your kids.

Sessions Monday: 10.30-11.30 Tuesday to Friday: 9.30 -10.30 & 11.00–12.00 Tuesday & Thursday: 1.00-2.00pm Cost just £3.50 per child (must be accompanied by adult)

Refreshments available Phoenix Gymnastics Club Unit 1, Water Oakley Farm, Maidenhead Road, Windsor Tel:01628 778881 www.phoenixgym.co.uk

Slough Gymnastics Club l

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A British Gymnastics club providing: Opportunities to achieve in a happy, safe environment.

British Gymnastics badge scheme and development programs.

Classes for all ... ages 2-102!!

See our moves online and come and visit our dedicated facility ... email: info@sloughgymnastics.co.uk Tel 01753 532 176 Tel 0788 44 77 013

JULY/AUGUST 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Summer Holidays U - Explore underground. There’s something strangely thrilling about taking a walk through a cave, into the very inside of the earth – the atmosphere is quite different from anywhere else you’ll ever go and the memories of what you see and experience stay with you for a long time. And, of course, every child needs to understand the difference between those stalactites and stalagmites. Some of the best caves in the country are at Cheddar Gorge in Somerset, the White Scar Cave at Ingleton in Yorkshire, where you can take an 80-minute tour through some of the country’s most awesome subterranean rock formations, and Wookey Hole near Wells in Somerset, home (apparently) to the Witch of Wookey. Not suitable, though, for a buggy or a wheelchair.

Or check out The Hellfire Caves, in West Wycombe (hellfirecaves.co.uk).

V - Visit the Land of the Vikings at Legoland® which has some great rides – the River Splash is one of the most popular rides in the park. Navigate the rapids while watching out for the waterfalls, and don’t forget to look out for any onshore raiders who might give you a good soaking as you sail past. Head back to dry land and enjoy the gentler Spinning Spider cups ride or get dizzy on the Longboat Invader. If you like it wet, head on down to the Pirate Falls for a guaranteed soaking. Also in Pirate Bay is the Jolly Rocker – sure to be a hit with all adrenaline junkies, it might just turn your tummy upside down. Plus don’t miss a ride on the Atlantis Submarine, where you’ll plunge the depths to see real stingrays, sharks and beautiful shoals of fish, as well as hidden treasure. And there’s lots more to enjoy too, children can get their own Lego driving licence in Traffic, shoot some mummies and skeletons in Kingdom of the Pharoahs, ride the Dragon rollercoaster or operate a fullsize Digger. There’s plenty for little children in Duplo® Land, and lots of shows to enjoy, too. For more info, visit www.legoland.co.uk.

W - Why not get on the Water? Engage Watersports and Taplow Board and Ski

provide watersports activities for all ages and all abilities. They offer family activity days, summer holiday activities for children and courses where you can gain watersports qualifications. They provide a safe and structured environment, where you and your children can have a great time, whilst developing new skills and meeting new friends. Their instructors all share the owner’s enthusiasm for making watersports fun. Whether you want to learn to kayak, canoe, wakeboard, water-ski, stand-uppaddleboard, stay on a banana boat, or build and paddle your own raft - they can provide everything you need to ensure you make the most of your experience. For further information or to have a chat about what you would like to do, please call 01628 671131/782113 or go to www.engagewatersports.com; www.tbns.co.uk X - X marks the spot! Geocaching is one of those things that sounds totally perplexing to anyone who’s never tried it, but a huge hit with almost everyone who has. The idea is to

find some buried ‘treasure’ – that’s hidden in a box, and is findable using a hand-held satnav system (any will do). The treasure in question usually consists of a plastic E FRE box like a lunchbox with a whole host of miscellaneous bits and pieces in it – things

like small toys, CDs, pens, anything. The rule is that when you find your treasure you’re allowed to take one thing out, but you must also put one thing in – and sign the log book, of course. The treasure is hidden everywhere and anywhere – in cities, in the countryside, even underwater. For more information visit: geocaching.com.

Y - Go to the the Yucky You Show at the Look Out Discovery centre in Bracknell (extra charge of £1.85 plus normal admission price.) Where you kind find out why snot is green and other interesting facts. The centre has over 90 hands-on science and nature activities.You will have science literally at your fingertips! Inside the centre there is a gift shop full of great pocket money items and coffee shop with drinks and light snacks including home made cake! The Look Out is also set in 1,000 hectares of Swinley Forest with a fantastic adventure play area. Open daily 10am – 5pm. Their super saver ticket is only £18.30 for 2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children (valid until 31.3.13).

Children aged 3 and under are free. For more info go to www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/be or call 01344 354400. Or look them up on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery Z - See the Zingzillas on stage, along with the Mr Men, Dick and Dom, and Shrek the Musical at LolliBop, which is returning to Regent’s Park between August 17 and 19.

Aimed at children up to the age of ten, the festival is sure to keep your children entertained all day long. There are yoga sessions with Waybuloo, workshops by Horrible Histories and the Roald Dahl Museum and Storytelling Centre, an Alice in Wonderland tea party and the chance to meet Tiny, a 125 million years young dinosaur. Halfords are creating a Bike City with obstacle races and the chance to try out bikes, the Science Museum are setting up a dedicated Science Zone and there’s also lots of arts and craft workshops, dance classes, face painting and much, much more. For more info, including a full programme, visit www.lollibopfestival.co.uk

For lots more ideas for summer fun, visit familiestveast.co.uk/summer2012

WATERSPORTS FOR ALL AGES & ABILITIES • Activities include kayaking/canoeing, wakeboarding, water skiing, stand-up-paddleboarding, raft building, & banana boats • Unique 'Paddle and Power' summer holiday activities.

Half a day of paddle sports, plus a half day of wakeboarding / water skiing • Family activity days to challenge the whole family • Children’s birthday parties • Superb location at Taplow Lake - access to the Thames & Jubilee rivers • Licensed bar with large patio for parents (free WiFi)

www.tbns.co.uk

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For further information or to have a chat about what you would like to do please call 01628 671131 / 782113

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2012

www.engagewatersports.com

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

The London 2012 Games: Olympics a summer spectacular After years of effort, dedication and anticipation, it’s nearly here! The London 2012 Games marks a defining moment for athletes of Team GB and Paralympics GB - a chance to show the world what they can do on home soil.

By Rebecca Carr ondon 2012 will be remembered for years to come and it’s not just London that will be buzzing this summer. There are all kinds of activities for the family to enjoy together. Whether you make a trip to London, continue to follow the Olympic Flame, catch the action at a host of venues outside of London, or watch the action on big screens across the UK, there is a lot to do and see this summer.

London 2012 for free If you were not lucky enough to get Olympic or Paralympic tickets, you can still see some of the worlds top athletes in action this summer. Some of the best open-air action is free to enjoy without tickets. Events like the marathon and road races offer the chance to see world-class athletes in peak performances against the magnificent backdrop of the London skyline.

London 2012 outside of London There’s much more to London 2012 than events in London.You’ll also be able to watch a piece of the action everywhere from Cardiff to Glasgow and Manchester to Weymouth.

Plus, Stoke Mandeville in Buckinghamshire is home to the Paralympic Games and will host a Paralympic Torch Relay event on 28th August.

London 2012 on the big screen If you can’t make it to any of the regional venues, why not head to your local live site.

Live Sites are big screens located in every UK nation and region. They are great places to enjoy the best live action – as well as plenty more entertainment. Why not take the family along and enjoy a picnic.

Go to Time Out on pages 22-25 to find your nearest local event or visit www.london2012.com/join-in for more details.

London 2012 Festival The London 2012 Festival is the biggest

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festival the UK has ever seen and features 12,000 events and performances at over 900 venues featuring artists from across the world coming together in celebration of the Games. The Festival started in June and runs through to the 9th September when the Paralympic Games end and the Games are handed over to Rio. The Festival is all about getting involved – so why not bring the kids along. There are many events you can attend that are family friendly and in every corner of the UK.Visit www. London2012.com/festival for a full list of events you can enjoy.

London 2012 Join In Celebrate the Games at home with friends, family and neighbours; here are some hints and tips to make your event memorable: Opening Night in The world will be watching the UK as the Opening Ceremonies announce the start of London 2012. Get in on the action and host your own VIP screening for friends, family and neighbours. Why not make it a night to remember and get everyone you know to come down to your village hall or community centre.

Super Saturday On Saturday 4 August a massive 25 gold medals will be awarded at the London 2012 Olympic Games. What better way to celebrate the gold rush than getting your whole community fired up with a sizzling BBQ? If you would like to organise one of these events sign up to be a Local Leader.You'll get celebration tools to help plan your event and access to exclusive competitions. To become a London 2012 Local Leader visit www.london2012.com/localleaders Whatever you do this summer, make sure you celebrate the greatest sporting event in the world and enjoy a summer like no other.

Ascot, Langley, Windsor & Eton 07412 166 686

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2012

Key Dates: 27th July – The Opening Ceremony 28th July – The Olympic Games begin 12th August – The Closing Ceremony 24th – 29th August – The Paralympic Torch Relay 29th August– The Paralympic Games begin

Free events in London Road cycling 28 July – 1 August The Road Cycling starts at The Mall and ends at Hampton Court Palace.

Triathlon 4 – 7 August The grueling triathlon schedule includes swimming, cycling and running – all taking place in the stunning grounds of Hyde Park.

The Marathon 12 August The Olympic Marathon has around 80 athletic competitors and will pass landmarks such as the Tower of London, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square.

The Paralympic Torch Relay The London 2012 Paralympic Torch Relay will begin in London on Friday 24 August with the lighting of England’s Flame. The UK’s other three capital cities – Greater Belfast, Cardiff and Edinburgh will then light a flame on each of the following days, at special Flame lighting events. Once a Flame has been lit, it will visit local community groups and key locations in and around the city.

Paralympic Flame Lighting Ceremony Each Flame will then be taken to Stoke Mandeville, home of the Paralympic Movement where the four flames will be combined at a Paralympic Flame Lighting Ceremony on 28 August to create the London 2012 Paralympic Flame. There will then be a 24-hour Torch Relay from Stoke Mandeville. Torchbearers working in teams of five will carry the Paralympic Flame to the Olympic Stadium to light the Cauldron at the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Health News...

BOOK NOW for advertising in our Sept/Oct issue - Due out September 1st email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

MARLOW FOOT CLINIC Qualified Foot Health Practitioner Stephanie Francis SAC DIP RFHP

MEDICAL PEDICURE The 60 minute treatment gives your feet a thorough overhaul to revive the feet!

This procedure is recommended for people with corns, calluses, cracked heels, thickened nails & other minor foot conditions that require a more intensive treatment, rather than the traditional beauty salon pedicure.

CLINIC APPOINTMENTS Sunrise Haringtons CLINIC MARLOW CLINIC HENLEY Call 01628 487719 Call 07949 22 33 45

... with the help of Elisabeth Dolton GET FIT WITH BOOTCAMP ASCOT → Ready to make that lifestyle change? → Need to find a local, flexible class? → Want to meet new, likeminded people?

Run by Dr Charles Walker – Personal Trainer and GP – Bootcamp Ascot is all about bringing the gym into your community.

Charles can help you make that important change towards a fitter and healthier lifestyle.

There are eight indoor and outdoor classes weekly around Ascot and Bracknell. Sessions are suitable for men and women of all ages and fitness levels. No membership, just £5 per session. Personal training sessions are also available.

As a GP, Charles sees at first-hand the effects of unhealthy, sedentary lifestyles. “Exercise needs to be an inherent part of the way we live, in order to offer a long-term lifestyle solution.”

Charles scooped the Adult Sporting Champion prize at the recent Pride of Bracknell Awards.

For details, visit www.bootcampascot.co.uk LET THE SUNSHINE IN A recent survey in the UK showed that more than half of adults in the UK did not have enough vitamin D. In the winter and spring about one in six people has a severe deficiency.

The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency are unclear and the problem can often be missed until it reaches severe levels, at which point it results in a condition known as rickets.

What is also coming to light is the impact of insufficient Vitamin D goes far beyond the problem of soft bones. New research is revealing its importance in protecting against many health problems. Insufficient levels of are now being closely associated with asthma in children, depression and two senior paediatric pathologists have discovered a vitamin D deficiency in a significant number of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome cases.

We are all capable of producing vitamin D with proper exposure to sunlight. However, most sunscreens filter out UVB light, which inhibits vitamin D production. During the summer, just 15 minutes in the sun without sunscreen in the early morning and late afternoon is enough for most light-skinned individuals to create an ample supply of vitamin D, and for skin with more pigment (melanin) up to 40 minutes. Sunscreens remain essential during the sun’s peak hours for you and your children, but remember to expose the skin without it too.

USEFUL WEBSITES: www.wddty.com • www.webmd.boots.com www.womentowomen.com • www.patient.co.uk NEW WALKING WEBSITE Are you after some fresh ideas for walks this spring? Would you like to find out how long your regular walk is? Do you want to find someone to walk with? All this is possible with the new website from Walk England.

It doesn’t have to be lengthy hikes every weekend – at www.walk4life.info you can choose from 16,000 walks across the country. The site, run on behalf of the Department of Health, is designed to be an easy-to-use tool, encouraging us to walk more in an everyday way. The walks are of various lengths and levels of difficulty, but most are short walks for all abilities.

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Education

Is your child ready for school?

Uniform: www.johnlewis.com

You’ll know by now which primary school your child is going to this September, so it’s time to start preparing. Forget force feeding them phonics, this is about getting your child ready for the social challenges of school. The more prepared they are, the easier they will settle and the more they’ll get out of those early days. Sarah Butters outlines the top ten things that will get given them a headstart.

1. Can they dress themselves?

Imagine the scene. One teacher faced with thirty children and their coats. By the time each child is zipped up and wrapped up, playtime is over. If your child is able to go some way to helping, they may get some fresh air.

If you can see buttons on trousers and skirts becoming a problem during the post PE change, invest in elasticated waistbands. These will also help during any ‘last minute’ toilet visits. Avoid tights in the early days - they can also lead to unnecessary bathroom accidents. With shoes, laces and buckles are a no-no. Stick to Velcro fastenings, which your child can do themselves.

2. Are they used to sharing?

Sharing is a difficult lesson for a child to learn, especially if they only start learning it at school. But it’s a vital lesson if you want your child to settle in and make friends easily. No one wants to play with the boy who refuses to take turns and share, and before long that child becomes isolated. Start to make a point of praising your pre-schooler for sharing his bag of figures or his last few sweets.

3. Can they use the toilet on their own?

Reception classrooms usually have a toilet nearby but children are expected to use it on their own. That can mean less confident children avoid a visit until it’s too late. Encourage your child to begin taking toilet trips without you to build up their confidence. Remind them that hand washing is part of the ‘visit’. Beginning school toilet training now will mean fewer accidents in September.

4. Are they able to eat independently?

Lunchtimes can be a real flashpoint in the early days of your child’s school life. Dinner halls are noisy places and can make a child feel overwhelmed. Make sure they arrive at school able to pick up and use a knife and fork. If they’re opting for a packed lunch, make sure they can open a yoghurt, put a straw in a juice box and unpeel a banana. With school a few months off, it may seem like the easier option to feed them, but it won’t help in the long run. Practice, however painful, makes perfect.

5. Are they able to recognise their name?

If your child can recognise their name, they’ll be able to find their peg, identify their drawer in the classroom and find their cardigan if it gets misplaced. Starting school can make even the most confident child feel a little lost. If they can locate important places, it will make them feel more in control.

6. Can they use scissors?

Teachers look for this in the early stages of Reception to evaluate dexterity. Get crafty over the next few months.

7. Do they understand discipline?

It’s important your child understands what’s expected of them when they arrive at school. They need to know hitting, kicking, biting and hair pulling will not be tolerated. Not only will it bring your child to the attention of the head teacher for all the wrong reasons, but it will make your child unpopular with their classmates. Reputations earned in the early days of school tend to stick and can be hard to shake off.

8. Can they communicate with an adult?

Giving your child the skills to communicate with their teacher means they will be able to have some control. How else will they ask to go to the toilet? If they don’t understand how to get the attention of an adult, how will they let their teacher know they don’t understand their work?

Telephone: 01628 627 586

A child who can communicate will get more out of the school day than a child who is unwilling to speak up. Encourage your child to ask and even practice with a raised hand at home to make sure they understand the most appropriate way of getting a grown up’s attention.

9. Are they able to count?

If your child is about to count up to 20, and count back from ten, this will give them a really good head start. Use some of their favourite toys or foods to make counting fun. Lay out ten grapes and get them to eat them one by one, counting as they go. It will give them confidence and help them see learning as fun. Plus it’s a great way to get one of their five a day down them!

10. Can they follow simple instructions?

The school day is full of instructions.Your child will be asked to put coats on pegs, bring packed lunches into classrooms and sit cross legged on the carpet for circle time. If a child is used to following instructions, they will avoid being reprimanded. The more time a teacher dedicates to repeating instructions and encouraging cooperation, the less time there is for teaching. Start giving your child simple tasks – perhaps helping with the weekly shop or with some straight forward jobs around the house. It will prepare them for school life.

SOME BOOKS YOU MAY FIND USEFUL: • I am too absolutely small for school (Charlie and Lola) by Lauren Child • Topsy and Tim Start School

by Jean Adamson

JULY/AUGUST 2012

• Starting School Sticker Book (Usborne) by Felicity Brooks • Going to School (Usborne First Experiences) by Anna Civardi • Starting School by Janet and Allan Ahlberg

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Childcare

Love changes childcare Writer Joanna Moorhead reveals the secret ingredient in childcare – and explains how Ofsted has caught on to it as well f 18 years of organising childcare for my children taught me anything at all, it’s this: you can pay someone to look after your kids, but you can’t pay someone to love them. What this means – or at least, what it means to me – is that when and if someone comes along who actually does love your kids, hold onto them for all you’re worth; because they are literally priceless in your family’s life.

For me, the wonderful carer who really did love my daughters was Linda, who looked after them (and sometimes me as well) for eight years. She arrived in our family’s life when my eldest child was two, and she stayed until the birth of my fourth.

When she left, she said it was because she didn’t want to fall in love with another of my babies – because then it would be too hard to leave, and during the time she’d been working for us, she and her husband had moved further out of town.

Across the years I reckon I’ve paid at least 20 different carers to look after my children – and I still occasionally have to find childcare for my youngest daughter, who is nine. I’ve searched for – and found – carers for tiny babies, and for older (and not always very easy) pre-schoolers. I’ve found nurseries for some of my children, and I’ve had au pairs from time to time.

None of the carers in our family were as much a part of our team as Linda was, and none of them loved my children as much as she did (she still comes back to see them, several years on); but the more the carer engaged with, and enjoyed, whichever child or children she was looking after, the happier the children were. So I have no doubt at all what matters most in choosing a childcarer. Look for someone who makes your child happy, pure and simple. Look for someone your child looks forward to being with, and is happy to share his or her days with.

Often – or so it has sometimes seemed to me – parents are too ambitious in their hopes for a childcarer; and ironically, this means they end up getting a raw deal for their child. They want a carer who, as well as looking after their child, will also manage

to make the beds and iron the laundry and leave the kitchen spotless at the end of the day. And of course, if you’ve been out at work since dawn and you’ve got another tough day tomorrow, tidiness does matter – because in order to enjoy a bit of time with your child, you don’t want to have to start ploughing through the washing up.

But expecting too much ‘round the edges’ from a carer means your child can miss out: because it’s that primary relationship between the nanny, or mother’s help, or childminder, that matters more than anything else.

Interestingly, Ofsted recently came to the same conclusion. In recent years, the main thrust of an Ofsted check on a nursery or childminder has been on safety issues, especially safeguarding ones. But under new plans, inspectors will concentrate instead, in the future, on whether children feel loved and emotionally secure while they’re in the nursery or childminder’s home, and will look at children’s personal development, such as how ready they are to share and to take turns, and how well they engage with the other children around them.

The plans went out for consultation earlier this year and they’ve already received a warm welcome – because of course they make perfect sense. The changes are due when the new Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is launched this September. The changes will affect existing and prospective early years and childcare providers on the Early Years Register. www.ofsted.gov.uk/early-years-andchildcare I’d also say, looking back over my many years of employing childcarers, that – strangely enough – the carers the kids would have chosen were unfailingly the ones who were most successful in our family. The litmus test of a childcarer’s abilities is, at the end of the day, whether your child would choose to be with that person (assuming you aren’t available which, of course, you’re not).

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Childcare For this reason, it seems a bit odd to me that parents sometimes report feeling jealous of the feelings their child has for their childcarer. No carer is ever going to replace a parent, but surely the very best accolade for the choice you’ve made for your children is if your replacement is the next-best person in their life? Ideally, a carer should resemble a much-loved family member – depending on what sort of carer they are, and what sort of age they are. So in my family, Linda was a ‘granny’ figure (although she was only ten years older than me, and a very glamorous granny when she first arrived at our door, aged just 40); we’ve had Czech and Polish au pairs, usually shared with other families, who have had a big-sisterly relationship with my daughters; and we’ve had carers in nurseries who have been like favourite aunties.

And all in all, my daughters have laughed a lot, and enjoyed their time, and improved their social skills through their attachments and their relationships with the people who’ve cared for them. Like every working mother, I owe all these people who’ve backed me up through the years a huge debt of gratitude: because we all need to know our kids are safe and happy in order to do our jobs. So, follow your instincts is what I’d say: find someone your child really likes being with, and a carer who clearly enjoys being with your child. If you’re very, very lucky, you may even find someone to love him, or her; and then you’ll truly have hit the jackpot.

Childcare: your options There is lots to think about when you’re weighing up which sort of childcare to go for. Do you want your child looked after at home, or somewhere else; with other children, or one-to-one with a carer? You’ll also need to consider what sort of care will dovetail with your working hours; plus (and all-importantly) your budget.

• A nursery: usually open long hours, typically from 7am to 7pm.You need to think about how you’ll get your child to and from nursery; also, if you intend having another child soon, remember that having two children at nursery will double (or almost double, if there’s a sibling discount) the costs. Expect to pay: £30-50 a day • A childminder: looks after up to six children (three of whom can be under five) in her own home. Childminders can often be flexible about working hours. Expect to pay: between £3 and £8 an hour • A nanny: looks after your child in your own home, and may live in or live out.You can cut your costs, and give your child a playmate, if you share a nanny with another family with a similar-aged child. Expect to pay: between £7 and £10 an hour, plus you’re responsible for your nanny’s tax and NI contributions.

• An au pair or mother’s help: au pairs or mother’s helps tend to come from other EU countries, and may or may not live in your house. They’re often not trained, but will need to have some experience of childcare; they look after your children, and may do some housework as well. Expect to pay: between £7 and £9 an hour for a liveout, less if they’re live-in and you’re providing food.

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10 unt discofees on

Specialist Baby & Toddler Swimming Classes Aqua-Natal Yoga Classes For more information call Jodi on: 07823 885328 / 01628 785236 or email: Jodi.oconnor@turtletots.com www.turtletots.com Come out of your shell and learn to swim the Turtle Tots Way!

Childcare pitfalls • Don’t be vague with your carer about what you want/need. But once you’ve spelt out what you need, be prepared to trust her to provide what your child needs when she’s in charge, within the boundaries you have set • Don’t enter into a childcare arrangement unless you’re certain that the logistics work.

Any niggle about practicalities is likely to grow much, much bigger as time goes by • Don’t forget to trust your instincts.

Never ignore any nagging doubts about a carer’s suitability – explore the doubts instead, because you need to be completely sure that all is well when you’re not around.

Music with Mummy Themed, fun music classes for children aged up to 5 years in small groups Jolly Babies – specially designed for babies under one year Jackie @ Windsor: 01344 301954 Caroline @ Ascot: 01753 850772 Katie @ Maidenhead: 01628 667441 www.musicwithmummy.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Great

Competitions

Win Four tickets to CLIVEDEN ROCKS!

Win Tickets To ODDS FARM PARK!

We have three sets of four tickets to Cliveden Rocks on Friday 13 July. The concert will feature some of the best pop music created in the 70s and 80s, such as Utter Madness or Queen B featuring the talent of Paul Jackson – he looks like Freddie and he sounds like Freddie –and plays crowd-pleasers such as Somebody to Love, Killer Queen, It’s A Kind of Magic and Crazy Little Thing Called Love.

On Saturday 14 July another open air picnic show will please Robbie fans when He’s The One, the world's No.1 Robbie Williams Tribute act, will perform alongside The Magic of Abba. A spectacular fireworks display will end the evening on both nights.

Tickets for each Cliveden Rocks! concert are priced £27 in advance, £32 on the night, if available.

Advance booking is strongly recommended. (Gates open at 5.30pm, concerts start at 7.30pm).

To book by telephone, call 0844 249 1895 – booking fee applies.

Book in person at Frost’s Burnham office (01628 666632) or at Cliveden’s information centre. To book online, visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden - booking fee applies.

This Summer, there’s plenty of Family Fun at Odds Farm Park and we have 3 Entry Tickets for 2 Adults and 2 Children to give away!

It’s back! With a specially built mini race track with jumps and bends, eager sheep with miniature jockeys, Sheep Racing* is an event not to miss at Odds Farm Park. Plus, guess the winning sheep and take home a medal! And, NEW from the end of July, can you find your way around the fantastic Maize Maze?

Plus, within the Giant Indoor Playbarn, you’ll find a massive adventure play area including 4 lane Astra Slide, 2 large drop slides, a netted area with zig zag chicanes & tunnels, swinging ropes and much more. With special Toddler and Under 5’s areas, there’s bags of fun for all ages. And adults can relax with a delicious speciality coffee from the brand new Espresso Bar! Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield. For more information, including special Summer events and prices visitors should call 01628 520188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk. * (June-October, Weather Permitting) To enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions Closting Date July 20

To enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

Closing Date July 9

WIN TICKETS TO LEGOLAND® WINDSOR RESORT LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland Experience is now at the LEGOLAND® Windsor Resort. The new indoor fully themed LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland Experience will painstakingly recreate seven of the most famous scenes – six from the beloved Star Wars™ films and one from the smash hit animated series: Star Wars: The Clone Wars™, using around 1.5 million LEGO® bricks.

Planned in close consultation with Lucasfilm Ltd, the LEGO® Star Wars™ Miniland Experience will follow a chronological path through the Star Wars™ timeline and feature around 2,000 LEGO® models in 1:20 scale.

With over 55 rides and 150 acres to explore, there’s something for everyone.

Find out more at www.legoland.co.uk

To enter just visit www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions Closting Date July 20 PLEASE SEE NEXT PAGE FOR OUR CHILD GOES FREE WITH PAYING ADULT OFFER.

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Win an Aquabeat MP3 player with New Metanium Everyday Exercising with your baby can be a great way to get and stay in shape, and listening to music can be just the motivator you need to get out there every day. New Metanium Everyday Barrier Ointment is giving away 2 colourful Aquabeat MP3 players (RRP around £70) which can store 1000 of your favourite tracks. It’s waterproof so you can even use it while swimming.

5 runners up will receive a specially designed purple Metanium changing bag (RRP £30) – ideal for all those on-the-go baby essentials. Winners and runners up will also receive a tube of Metanium Everyday.

Protection for your baby and motivation for you – Every day!

Metanium Everyday RRP £2-99 for 40g and £5-49 for 80g is available from Boots, Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, leading pharmacies and at www.boots.com Visit: www.metanium.co.uk to join the Metanium Baby & Toddler Club. To enter just visit

WIN AN EASY2NAME OFF TO SCHOOL SET We have five Easy2Name Off to School sets to give away, each set is worth £18.90 and contains 30 waterproof stickers, 30 iron on name tapes, 1 set of shoe covers, 1 bag tag and 1 shoe bag.

The full Easy2Name range can be seen at www.easy2name.com To enter the draw go to www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions Please state clearly the name of your child and whether you require the shoe bag and labels in red, pink or blue.

To enter just visit

www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions.

Closting Date July 20

www.familiestveast.co.uk/competitions Closting Date July 20

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Great

Offers

LEGOLAND

Terms & Conditions: • This voucher entitles one child (up to and including 15 years of age) to free entry to LEGOLAND Windsor when accompanied by a full paying adult.

• Only one free child entrance ticket per voucher and per full-paying adult.

• Entrance for children under three years of age is free.

• Car parking charges apply • Voucher must be presented upon entrance into LEGOLAND Windsor and surrendered to the ticket booth operator. Discount vouchers cannot be used for pre-bookings.

• Not to be used in-conjunction with any other offer, reward/loyalty program, 2 Day Pass, Annual Pass, group booking, on-line tickets, rail inclusive offers or pre-purchased tickets.

• Guests are advised that not all attractions and shows may be operational on the day of their visit.

• Height, age and weight restrictions apply on some rides. Some rides will require guests who only just meet the minimum height requirements to be accompanied by a person aged 16 years or over.

• Guests under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a person aged 16 or over.

ASCOT

• This voucher is not for re-sale, is non-refundable and nontransferable.

• This voucher is valid for admissions to 5th November 2012, excluding selected dates – please check www.LEGOLAND.co.uk in advance to confirm excluded dates • This offer is limited to one per household.

• This offer will apply irrespective of the entrance price at the time of use.

• LEGOLAND Windsor will be closed on selected weekdays in September and October.

• PLEASE visit www.legoland.co.uk in advance to confirm dates and prices.

Enjoy £5 discount on entry to the remaining Family Days in 2012 which includes the Betfair Summer Family Fun Raceday on Sun 22 July, the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup and ‘80s Concert on Sat 11 Aug, United House Group Day and Firework £5 off entry to Family Days Spectacular on Sat 3 Nov and Christmas Family To claim the discount, call 0844 346 3000 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday or Meeting on Sat 22 Dec. visit www.ascot.co.uk, quoting promotional code FAMILIESTV.

For great hotel offers go to www.LEGOLANDhotels.co.uk

Tickets must be pre-booked and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Max 9 tickets per order. Conditions of entry to Ascot Racecourse apply, see ascot.co.uk for details.

ORCHARD Academy of Dance & Theatre Arts Est. 1981 – Principal: Jean Orchard L.I.S.T.D.

L RO EN W! NO

2 NEW CLASSES for BOYS & GIRLS

Street Dance & Musical Theatre Ballet ~ Tap ~ Modern Theatre Dance ~ Adult Tap Classes Outstanding Exam Results and Spectacular Shows

01753 663484 Telephone: 01628 627 586

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Time Out

Cherry Fayre, Flackwell Heath July 8

Tiny Mites, Norden Farm Maidenhead July 21

Summer Family Fun Day, Ascot Race Course July 22

JULY

football, dancing Sea cadets display, Scout races, fancy dress, ponies and a dog show. Grand raffle draw at 4.30pm. 01753 539024.

Saturday July 14. BIRD WATCHING FOR BEGINNERS, at Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver.

10am-12noon. Join Craig the Langley Park Gardener on a beginners bird watching session. Not suitable for young children. Meet at the Tea Room. Booking essential. Cost: adults £4, children £2, family £10. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Saturday July 14 and Sunday July 15. THE SWORD IN THE STONE, Open Air Theatre and children’s workshop at The Savill Garden, Wick Lane, Englefield Green performed by the Cambridge Touring Theatre Company. Children's workshop on both days at 5pm before the theatre. Pre-booking essential and suitable for 5-11 year olds at £3 per child. Outdoor performance starts at 7pm, ticket holders can picnic from 5pm. Tickets: adults £13, concessions £9, family (2+2 or 1+3) £37.50. Booking essential. Purchase at The Savill Building or call 01784 435 544 (10am to 6pm). www.theroyallandscape.co.uk Sunday July 15. ROUTES AND RHYTHM at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. 2pm and 7.30pm. Combining the compelling rhythms of West African drumming and the heat of Samba with the vocals of South African and African American music. The culmination of workshops for African Heritage Month.

Tickets: £10, concessions £5. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk.

Sundays July 15, August 5 and 19, and 2 September. LORD DESBOROUGH’S SPORTING LEGACY, Exhibition and Open Days at Taplow Court, Berry Hill, Taplow. 2.30-5.30pm. 01628 773 163; sgi-uk.org.

Wednesday July 18. WILD ONES – CREATURES OF THE NIGHT at Lily Hill Park, Lily Hill Road, Bracknell. 8-9.30pm. Search for bats and moths emerging as the sun sets. Suitable for all. Bring a torch. Cost: £2. Meet at the main car park, off Lily Hill Road. Booking required: 01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Open throughout the summer holidays.

MAIZE MAZE AND SHEEP RACING at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common.

Find your way through the maze or watch the racing action on the specially built mini race track with jumps and bends, eager sheep with miniature jockeys. 01628 520188; oddsfarm.co.uk.

During weekends and Wednesdays in the summer holidays. SUMMER HOLIDAY STEAMINGS at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre, Quainton Road Station, Quainton, Aylesbury.

10.30am-5.30pm. 01296 655720; bucksrailcentre.org.

Saturday July 21. VICTORIAN FAYRE on the South Lawn, behind South Hill Park Arts Centre, Ringmead, Bracknell. 10am–4.30pm. Celebrate the successful historic grounds restoration project. With traditional crafts, games, children's rides and side stalls.

01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Saturday July 21. TINY MITES AT THE SEASIDE, at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 11.30am. A magical musical adventure, with songs, dance, bubbles and lots of joining in. For ages 2+. Tickets: £8 per seat, £29 per family of four.

01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Saturday July 21. LANGLEY DOG SHOW at Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver. 10.30am-4pm. Event for all the family, with Pedigree and Novelty classes, plus stalls to

browse. Register your dog(s) between 10.30am and 12.30pm on the day. Judging from 12.30pm onwards. Cost: £2 per class or 3 classes for £5. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Saturday July 21 and Sunday July 22.

VICTORIAN WEEKEND at Hughenden Manor, High Wycombe. 11am-5pm. Enjoy all things Victorian from Science to fashion, plus a living history camp full of redcoat soldiers. Free, with normal admission. 01494 755573; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturdays July 21 and 28, August 4 and 11.

KIDS YOGA, at Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. 10-11am. Led by Gale Hubbard. Themed classes in a fun environment. Suitable for ages 5–7 years. Cost: £6.50 per class. Booking essential. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Saturday July 21 to Sunday August 12. THE MAIDENHEAD BEACH at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. With family beach crafts from Tuesday 24 to Tuesday 31 July (not on Saturdays).

10.30am-12.30pm. Cost: £3 per person. Make driftwood pirates, paper fish, sea creatures and special messages in bottles. Plus free storytelling sessions from Tuesday July 24 to Sunday August 12. 1-1.30pm. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Sunday July 22. FAMILY FUN DAY at Ascot Racecourse. Betfair Weekend. Meet Peppa Pig and George, Humungosaur and other Ben 10 characters, plus Thomas the Tank Engine and the Fat Controller.

Storytelling in the bandstand, fairground rides and facepainting, ideal for under 10s. Join the Colts and Fillies club for some special activities. 0844 346 3000; ascot.co.uk.

Sunday July 22. LITTLE BIG CLUB at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. Two shows: at 1pm and at 3.30pm. Featuring Bob the Builder, Barney, Angelina Ballerina, Fireman Sam, Thomas the Tank Engine & Pingu Live on Stage and in Concert. Tickets: adults £13, children £11, family £48. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk.

Sunday July 22. GREEK MYTHS FOR KIDS at South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. 2pm. Mix of storytelling and spectacular puppetry, Backhand Theatre will take you on some great quests. Adventure for ages 4+. Tickets: adults £11, children £7.50. 01344 484123; southhillpark.org.uk.

Monday July 23 and Wednesday July 25.

RANGER ROADSHOW with the RBWM Rangers.

2.30-3.30pm. Monday at Maidenhead Library, St Ives Road, Maidenhead; Wednesday at Windsor Library, Bachelors Acre, Windsor. Learn how to become a wildlife detective in your own backyard. Free, but booking essential. For Maidenhead, call 01628 796969; for Windsor, call 01753 743940.

Monday July 23 to Friday August 10. SUMMER CAMPS at Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead.

10am-4pm. First week (July 23-27): SUMMER CIRCUS WEEK led by Albert and Friends for ages 713 years. Grand performance at the end of the week.

Cost: £115 for the week (£110 with Advantage Card).

Second week (July 30-August 3): STREET DANCE CAMP led by Amy Opalko for ages 9–15 years. Cost: £105 per week (£98 with Advantage Card).

Third week (August 6-10): SUMMER THEATRE WEEK led by Troublemaker Theatre Company for ages 10-18 years. Cost: £110 per week (£105 with Advantage Card). 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Tuesday July 24. ‘LOVE PARK WEEK’ NATURE WALK in Ockwells Nature Reserve, Ockwells Road, Maidenhead. Meet in the car park behind the pavilion. 2-3.30pm. Look for bugs, beetle, butterflies

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Every Saturday and Sunday in July and August. WINDSOR TOWN WALKS, starting from the Royal Windsor Information Centre, Royal Station Shopping Centre at 11.30am on Saturday and at 2.30pm on Sunday. Themed walks led by professional Blue Badge Tourist Guides. Book at the Information Centre, 01753 743900.

Every weekend and every day during school holidays till Monday September 3. THE YUCKY YOU SHOW at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell. Discover the stinking secrets of your body! New fantastic show why our bodies are so gooey, crusty and ever so yucky. Suitable for ages 4+. 01344 354400; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Daily throughout July and August. SELF-LED SUMMER TRAIL at Cliveden, Taplow. 10am-4pm. Pick up a free Family Trail from the Information Centre. Go on an adventure through the gardens to find the clues to complete your trail. 01628 550320; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Every Tuesday in July and August. TUESDAY TOURS around Cliveden, Taplow. 2-3.15pm. Free guided tour of the gardens. Meet at the Information Kiosk, suitable for groups and children. 01628 550320 Saturday July 7. SUMMER FETE AND BBQ at Iver Village Infant School, Grange Way, Iver. Run by the Friends of Iver Schools Association. 4-7pm. Bouncy castles, stalls, games, tombolas, raffle, refreshments. Come along and have a great afternoon/evening. Entry: adults 50p, under 12s free, over 12s 20p.

Saturday July 7. THAMES HOSPICECARE SUMMER FETE at Windsor Girls School, Imperial Road, Windsor. 11am-3pm. Traditional fair, with morris dancers, maypole dancing, cakes, bbq and much, much more. Entry: £2 per adult. Thameshospicecare.org.uk.

Saturday July 7. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, Open Air Theatre at Cliveden, Taplow.

7-10pm. Shakespearian comedy in the Water Garden.

Arrive from 6pm for picnics. Performance starts at 7pm.

Tickets: adults £16.50, children £9 (5-16). Booking essential. 0844 2491895; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Sunday July 8. WINDSOR EMPORIUM in the Guildhall, above the Windsor Museum, High Street, Windsor. 10am-4pm. Arts, crafts and antiques fair, every first Sunday of the month. Beautiful surroundings, beautiful crafts, lovely Vintage Tea Room serving home-made refreshments. Free entry. 07900 285919; windsoremporium.co.uk.

Sunday July 8. FLACKWELL HEATH CHERRY FAYRE on the Recreation Ground, Straight Bit, Flackwell Heath. 11.30am-5pm. Grand Parade through the village at 12 noon. Arena events from 12.30pm. Stalls, BBQ, Pig Roast, Bar, family funfair, tombola, grand raffle and lots more.

Tuesday July 10. OLYMPIC TORCH at Windsor Castle where the Queen will meet the torchbearers at about 2.30pm. On its way to Windsor, the torch will travel through Marlow (Bisham Abbey) from 10.10am, Maidenhead from 10.48am, Dorney Lake from 11.53am, Burnham (Bath Road) from 12.29pm and Slough from 12.33pm. The flame will be at Ascot racecourse at about 4.35pm. Timings are approximate. For exact details, visit london2012.com/torch-relay/route/.

Saturday July 14. BURNHAM CARNIVAL in Burnham Park, Windsor Lane, Burnham. With an Olympic Parade via the High Street to the Park from 1pm. Arena events, acts, stalls and much more.

Saturday July 14. LANGLEY CARNIVAL on the Langley Memorial Ground, Langley Road, Langley. Grand opening at 12noon by the Mayor of Slough. With u9's

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THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Time Out

Compiled by Trynke Casale

The Twits, Illyria Theatre Cliveden July 24

Olympic Opening Ceremony Live at Norden Farm July 27

Butterfly Walk, Langley Park July 28

and other mini-beasts in your local park. Accompanied children only. No need to book. Cost: free. 01628 777440; rbwm.gov.uk/web/bnc.

Tuesday July 24. THE TWITS, Open Air Theatre at Cliveden, Taplow. With Illyria Theatre, outdoor theatre for all the family. Two performances: 2.30-4.30pm and 6-8pm. Tickets: adults £12.50, children (3-16) £9. Booking essential. 0844 2491895; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Tuesdays and Thursdays throughout the summer holidays, starting on Tuesday July 24.

HOLIDAY DROP-IN SESSIONS at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 45-Minute sessions starting at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 3.30pm. By timed ticket on the day (places limited).

July 24 and 26: FUNNY FACES. July 31 and August 2: MOSAIC MADNESS. August 7 and 9.

GO WILD WITH CLAY. Augus 14 and 16. 3D MEGABUGS. August 21 and 23. ROMAN SHIELDS AND HELMETS. August 28 and 30.

TREASURE AHOY! Cost: £2.50. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Wednesday July 25. WILD WEDNESDAY – SPORTS DAY at Cliveden, Taplow. 11am-3pm. Every Wednesday in local school holidays: get stuck into some fun outdoor adventures whatever the weather. Ideal for

children aged 4-11. Just turn up. Cost: £2 per child. 01628 550320; nationaltrust.org.uk. Also on Wednesdays in August.

Wednesday July 25. COMMUNITY GAMES in the Open Space at Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham, Slough. From 11am. Classic school sports day events.

Register between 11am and 12noon on the open space.

First race will start at 12.30pm. Cost: 50p entry per race.

01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Thursday July 26. L&Q PICNIC IN THE PARK in Burnham Park, Windsor Lane, Burnham. 12-3pm. With the local police & fire brigade, environmental services, etc.

Refreshments by the Burnham Oasis Project, BOP Kids used clothing stall, bouncy castle, petting farm, children's entertainer, face painting, and activities provided by the Sure Start Children’s Centre.

Lqgroup.org.uk/services-for-residents.

Thursday July 26. ‘LOVE PARK WEEK’ NATURE WALK in Braywick Nature Reserve, Hibbert Road, Maidenhead. 2-3.30pm. Meet in the car park. Look for bugs, beetle, butterflies and other mini-beasts in your local park. Accompanied children only.

No need to book. Cost: free. 01628 777440; rbwm.gov.uk/web/bnc.

Thursday July 26. GAMES IN THE PARK in Herschel Park, Upton Close, Slough. 12-3pm. Bring a picnic and join Herschel Park volunteers for a fun games session in the park. Giant snakes and ladders, ludo, noughts and crosses, skittles, jenga and quoits, amongst others. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk.

Friday July 27. THE OLYMPICS OPENING CEREMONY. Free screening in the Long Barn, Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. Time to be confirmed.

Free. Join about a billion other people around the world and watch the spectacular event at Norden Farm. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Friday July 27. OLYMPICS WORKSHOPS at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe.

10.30-11.30am. Free event, but booking required.

Literacy-based workshop. Design your own sport and practice your sports reporter skills. Suitable for age 7+.

Led by Explore Learning. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Friday July 27 to Sunday August 12. LIVE SCREENING OF ALL OLYMPICS ACTION on a giant screen in the Maidenhead Community Live site, in Kidwells Park, Maidenhead.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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24

Windsor Emporium August 5

Den Building Workshops, Langley Park August 6 & 7 also 20 & 21

Retro Festival, White Waltham Airfield August 10, 11 & 12

Saturday July 28. BUTTERFLIES FOR BEGINNERS at Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver.

10.15am-12.30pm. Butterfly walk led by a local butterfly recorder. For all the family. Booking essential. Cost: adults £4, children £2, family £10. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Saturday July 28. KIDS CLUB at Dorney Court Kitchen Garden, Court Lane, Dorney. 11.15am-12pm.

Every last Saturday of the month. Free, monthly workshop for kids aged 5-10 years old. Accompanied children only.

Booking essential. The Garden will also be running kids craft workshops during the summer holidays. Check the website for more information. 01628 669999; dckg.co.uk.

Saturday July 28 to Saturday August 11.

MAIDENHEAD RIVERSIDE WALKS, daily walks during the Olympic Games, led by Windsor Welcome Guides. Start times: 2pm and 4pm, outside the Thames Riviera Hotel in Bridge Road, Maidenhead. Walks end on Ray Mill Island, Boulters Lock. Tickets: adults £7 (£5 with Adv. Card), children 5+ £3. Pay on the day, but please book your place in advance. 01753 644 582, or email windsorwelcome@yahoo.co.uk.

Sunday July 29. COLNE VALLEY FESTIVAL at the Colne Valley Regional Park, Denham Country Park, Denham Court Drive, Denham. 11am-3pm. With lots of green and wild activities for the kids, birds of prey display, boat rides, river dipping, local food stalls and lots more.

Free event, but some charges for individual events. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Sunday July 30. WINDSOR STREET GALLERY, an open air fine art show in Peascod street, Windsor.

Open for browsing and sales between 11am-5pm. A joint project between Windsor Town partnership and Windsor & Maidenhead Artist’s Cooperative.

Monday July 30 to Friday August 3. FIVE FUN FAMILY DAYS at the Burnham Beeches, Hawthorn Lane, Farnham Common. Mornings. Five family walks for five year olds and over. Frivolous frolics and fascinating facts, led by the Info Rangers. Booking required. 01753 647358; cityoflondon.gov.uk/burnhambeeches.

Tuesday July 31. GO WILD HOLIDAY CLUB – POND DIPPING at Braywick Nature Centre, Hibbert Road, Maidenhead. 2-4pm. Discover what creepy crawlies live in the pond this summer holidays. Booking essential.

Suitable for ages 6+. Cost: £5 per child. 01628 777440; rbwm.gov.uk/web/bnc. Also on Thursday August 9 and Tuesday August 14.

AUGUST Wednesday August 1. FUN IN THE PARK in Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham. 12-4pm. Family event, with a fire juggler and sword swallower, Punch & Judy performances, giant games on the green, falconry displays, live music and much more. Free event, but some charges for individual activities. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Thursday August 2. GO WILD HOLIDAY CLUB – MINI-BEAST SAFARIS at Braywick Nature Centre, Hibbert Road, Maidenhead. 2-4pm.

Investigate animal remains, tracks and signs. Booking essential. Suitable for ages 6+. Cost: £5 per child. 01628 777440; rbwm.gov.uk/web/bnc. Also on Tuesday August 7 and Tuesday August 16.

Thursday August 2 to Sunday August 5.

ANGELINA BALLERINA, THE MOUSICAL at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe.

Shows at 11am, 2.30pm and 6pm (not on Saturday and Sunday). Ballet Girls and Hip Hop Boys. Angelina and her friends win the opportunity to appear in their favourite show 'Dancing With Mice', but the girls and boys have very different ideas about the show. Tickets: £13-£18.

01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk.

Friday August 3. IN TOUCH WITH ROMANS, drop-in activities at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. Sessions from 10-10.30am, 10.45-11.15am and 11.30am-12pm. Roman object handling session. Part of the British Archaeology Festival.

Suitable for all.Free. Don’t forget the museum’s New Roman Trail, available at £1.25 each. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Sunday August 5. WINDSOR EMPORIUM in the Guildhall, above the Windsor Museum, High Street, Windsor. 10am-4pm. Arts, crafts and antiques fair, every first Sunday of the month. Beautiful surroundings, beautiful crafts, lovely Vintage Tea Room serving home-made refreshments. Free entry. 07900 285919; windsoremporium.co.uk.

Sunday August 5. WYCOMBE COMMUNITY FESTIVAL on The Rye, London Road, High Wycombe.

12noon-10pm. Lots of activities and stage acts. Also a London Olympics Live site, with live screening of some of the Olympic events on the day. 01494 459449 or 01494 436269; wycombecommunityfestival.org.uk.

Monday August 6 and Tuesday August 7. DEN BUILDING WORKSHOP in Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver. 10am-12pm. Build your own den with the Langley Park Gardeners. Bring a picnic to eat in your den once it’s built! A fun, hands-on activity for all the family.

Cost: £15 per family (max. 2+3). Booking essential. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Tuesday August 7. CHARITY MASCOT RACE at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common. From 12.30pm, race at 1pm. Fundraising event where the park’s own Pig Mascot will be joined by other mascots to race around the sheep race track. Meet the mascots in person before the race. 01628 520188; oddsfarm.co.uk.

Tuesday August 7. ORIENTEERING OPEN EVENT at Lily Hill Park, Lily Hill Road, Bracknell.

Anytime between 1-3pm. Enjoy a taste of orienteering on the permanent course set up at Lily Hill Park. Suitable for all. 01344 354441; bracknell-forest.gov.uk.

Wednesday August 8. WILD ONES – THE GREAT OUTDOORS at Lily Hill Park, Lily Hill Road, Bracknell. 1–3pm. From folklore to fire – learn about the wonder of trees and plants, and have a go at campfire cookery. Best suited for 6 years+. Cost: £2. Meet at the main car park, off Lily Hill Road. Booking required on 01344 354441.

Wednesday August 8. SUMMERS NIGHT WALK in Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver. 8-9.30pm.

Evening walk around Langley Park looking and listening for signs of nocturnal animals: bats, owls, and deer.

Booking essential. Cost: adults £4, children £2, family (2+3) £10. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Thursday August 9 to Saturday August 11.

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE, in the grounds of South Hill Park, Ringmead, Bracknell. 2pm and 6pm. With Skewbald Theatre. Marking the 150th anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. A unique strolling theatre production through the gardens into Wonderland. Tickets: adults £12, children £8, family £32. Children's picnic boxes also available for £5.95. 01344 484123; southhillpark.org.uk.

Friday August 10. LANGLEY LETTERBOX TRAIL in Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver. 1-2pm. Family friendly self-led trail around Langley Park. Turn up at the Tea Room from 1pm to start your trail. Cost: £4 per trail guide. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

Header

Time Out

River Dipping in River Misbourne, Denham August14

Maidenhead Riverside Walks Summer 2012

Join a Bug Hunt This Summer Various Parks

Friday August 10 to Sunday August 12.

RETRO FESTIVAL at the White Waltham Airfield, White Waltham, Maidenhead. From 5pm on Friday, Saturday 10am-late, Sunday 10am-6pm. Bands, wings, wheels, speed, steam, music and dance. Sunday is family day, tickets: adults £12, under 11s free. Saturday daytime only: family £32. Retrofestival.co.uk.

Saturday August 11. SUMMER FUN DAY at the Thames Valley Adventure Playground, Bath Road, Taplow.

11am-3pm. Open to children up to 16, with or without a special need and their families. 30th Birthday celebration of the playground with games, stalls, mobile farm, raffle and barbecue. Entry: £2. 01628 628599; tvap.co.uk.

Saturday August 11. FAMILY FUN DAY at Ascot Racecourse, Ascot. Racing for the Dubai Duty Free Shergar Cup and family fun during and after the racing within the Grandstand Admission area. Gates open at 11am, last admission 3pm. Fairground rides, urban display workshops, plus lots of other activities for ages 10+. Live evening concert from 4-6.30pm with '80s acts. Tickets: Grandstand Admission £26 on the day. Under 18s free with a paying adult. 0844 346 3000; ascot.co.uk.

Saturday August 11. HAVING A FLUTTER at Herschel Park, Upton Close, Slough. 10am-1pm. Talk and a walk by a local naturalist about the moths and butterflies that live in the park. Accompanied children welcome.

Meet at the Bentley Education Centre at 10am. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk.

Sunday August 12. THE OLYMPICS CLOSING CEREMONY. Free screening in the Long Barn, Altwood Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead. Time to be confirmed.

The grand finale of the Olympic Games with a march of the athletes and the handover of the games to the next host city. 01628 788997; nordenfarm.org.

Sunday August 12 to Sunday September 2.

WHEN ATHLETES WORE ARMOUR, summer holiday family events at Windsor Castle. 11am-4pm.

Family activities in the Moat Education Room. Special trail to see the armour in the State Apartments. Interactive talks and other events. For more information, call 020 7766 7302 or visit royalcollection.org.uk/learning.

Monday August 13 to Friday August 17.

SUMMER SHOW IN A WEEK: THE JUNGLE BOOK at the Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, Windsor. Summer theatre school, daily from 10am-5pm (doors open at 9am), for ages 5-18 years. Either act, sing, dance or mix all three, and perform the show on Friday at 3pm. Cost: £125. 01753 863444; theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk.

Tuesday August 14. RIVER DIPPING WORKSHOP at the Colne Valley Centre, Denham Country Park, Denham Court Drive, Denham. From 10.30am. Bring your wellies and hire a river dipping kit to go exploring in the River Misbourne, a shallow chalk stream, with the Country Rangers. Book an hour-long slot and hire the kit for £4 per family. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Wednesday August 15. BLACK PARK FILM WALK in Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham.

2-3.30pm. Booking essential. Cost: adults £4, children £2, family £10. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Wednesday August 15. THE BIG SUMMER BUG HUNT in the Wycombe Museum Gardens, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 1-4pm. Free drop-in event.

Minibeast safari with a Woodland Ranger. Bug viewers supplied. Plus bug life craft activities too. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Thursday August 16. WILD ONES – WIGGLY WILLOW WONDERS at Westmorland Park, Westmorland Drive, near Bracknell. 10am–12pm. Craft workshops. Best suited for 5–11 year olds. Cost: £3.50 for materials. Booking required on 01344 354441.

Thursday August 16. PICNIC IN THE PARK on the Recreation Ground, High Street, Iver. 12-3pm. Take a picnic and meet the local safety services, with stalls, bouncy castle, petting farm, children's entertainer, face painting, and activities.

Lqgroup.org.uk/services-for-residents.

Sunday August 19. THE GREAT HOPPER HUNT at Herschel Park, Upton Close, Slough. 2-3.30pm.

Meet at the kiosk next to the park entrance off Upton Close, then search the meadows in the nature reserve, armed with sweep nets, bug jars and magnifying glasses.

Accompanied children only. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk.

Monday August 20 and Tuesday August 21.

DEN BUILDING WORKSHOP in Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver. 10am-12pm. Build your own den with the Langley Park Gardeners. Bring a picnic to eat in your den once it’s built! Cost: £15 per family. Booking essential.

01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Monday August 20. ICE CREAM FESTIVAL at the Royal Windsor Racecourse, Maidenhead Road, Windsor. Gates Open at 3.30pm. First race at 5.30pm Fantastic racing and lots of fun for the whole family.

Tickets £11.00 and kids go FREE with a paying adult. Tel: 01753 498400; www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk Wednesday August 22. MINI-BEAST HUNT in Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham. From 1-2pm and 2.45-3.45pm. Mini beast kits for hire for small family groups. Book for one of the hour-long slots. The event runs at 1pm and again at 2.45pm. Cost: £4 per kit per family. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Thursday August 23. LET’S GO WILD WITH ANIMALS in Herschel Park, Upton Close, Slough.

11am-3.30pm. With Basil and Crew’s Mobile Farm, scavenger hunt around the park and make an animal hat or mask. Small charges for some activities. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk.

Thursday August 23 to Sunday August 26.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, the Wycombe Swan Summer Youth Project, at the Wycombe Swan, St Mary Street, High Wycombe. Thu-Sat at 7.30pm, 2.30pm on Saturday, 5.30pm on Sunday. Local production. Tickets: £11-£16. 01494 512000; wycombeswan.co.uk.

Friday August 24. ROTTEN ROMANS WORKSHOPS at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe. 11am-12pm, 1-2pm or 2.30-3.30pm. Free, but booking required. Have fun with Roman numerals and create your own cartoon strip.

Suitable for age 7+. Led by Explore Learning. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Saturday August 25. KIDS CLUB at Dorney Court Kitchen Garden, Court Lane, Dorney.

11.15am-12pm. Every last Saturday of the month. Free, monthly workshop for kids aged 5-10 years old. Booking essential. 01628 669999; dckg.co.uk.

Saturday August 25. NATURE DETECTIVES – BATS at Runnymede, between Old Windsor and Egham.

7.45-9.30pm. Look for bats at Ankerwycke, with the aid of torches and bat detectors. Evening walk with the National Trust Ranger and Surrey Bat Group. Booking essential.

Tickets: adults £6, children £2. Places limited! 0844 2491895; nationaltrust.org.uk.

Tuesday August 28. FAMILY NATURE TRAIL in Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham. 1-2pm. Self-led family trail set up by the rangers. The trail takes up to an hour to complete, start anytime from 1pm - 2pm. Cost: £4 per trail guide. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Wednesday August 29. FUN IN THE PARK in Langley Park, Billet Lane, Iver. 12-4pm. Fun family event.

With a fire juggler and sword swallower, Punch & Judy performances, giant games on the green, falconry displays, live music at the Tea Room and much more. Free. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Thursday August 30. L&Q PICNIC IN THE PARK in Burnham Park, Windsor Lane, Burnham.

12-3pm. Second Picnic in the Park in Burnham.

Lqgroup.org.uk/services-for-residents.

Friday August 31. BAT WALK in Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham. 7.45-9pm. Look for bats around Black Park, with bat detectors. Bring a torch. Cost: adults £4, children £2, family £10. Booking essential. 01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Friday August 31. BATTY ABOUT BATS at the Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, High Wycombe.

7.30-9pm. Cost: £3. Booking essential. Join a Woodland Ranger for a fascinating talk about the world of bats and try out bat detectors in the Museum grounds. 01494 421 895; wycombe.gov.uk/museum.

Saturday September 1. COOKHAM REGATTA in the river at Cookham. Lots of whacky boat races and community festival atmosphere. Great day by the river for the whole family.

Saturday September 1. ART IN THE PARK 2, in Herschel Park, Upton Close, Slough. 2-5pm. Art workshops with a local artist. Paint and draw the scenery of Herschel Park. Bring your own equipment.

Accompanied children only. Meet at the Bentley Education Centre. 01753 875209; slough.gov.uk.

Sunday September 2. WINDSOR EMPORIUM in the Guildhall, above the Windsor Museum, High Street, Windsor. 10am-4pm. Arts, crafts and antiques fair, every first Sunday of the month. Beautiful surroundings, beautiful crafts, lovely Vintage Tea Room serving home-made refreshments. Free entry. 07900 285919; windsoremporium.co.uk.

Sunday September 2. BLACK PARK MODEL BOAT REGATTA in Black Park, Black Park Road, Wexham. 10.30am-4.30pm. Annual regatta of the Black Park Model Boat Club, sailing and displaying a flotilla of model boats. There will also be a hire fleet where you can test your own navigating skills. Live music. Free event.

01753 511060; buckscc.gov.uk/countryparks.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Relationships SLEEP deprivation is a well-known form of torture, according to justice campaigners. For parents it can be an nightly occurrence and for many the overused and hyped up phrase ‘keep calm and carry on’ becomes the mantra of the day. Particularly after a bad night’s sleep, which consists of resettling the baby, putting the toddler back into their own bed and then resettling the baby….AGAIN.

RELATE IS NOT JUST FOR COUPLES BUT FAMILIES TOO

By Rebecca Johnson

eing a parent should be one of the most natural roles that any man or woman undertakes. But it comes without a handbook (unless you count Gina Ford). Lack of sleep and ‘me’ time, plus a radical change in lifestyle can severely impact on a couple’s relationship. No matter how much support you give each other it can be all too easy to take out life’s frustrations and your tiredness on the person closest to you.

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

“Children take up so much of your time once you become a parent,” says Fiona Paine, centre manager for Relate Mid-Thames and Bucks, “that you often forget all about the fact that you are also one half of a couple and that is as much an important relationship to nurture and continue to focus on as is the one with your children.”

Fiona and her team of expert counsellors at Relate are more than just marriage guidance counsellors, despite the perceived image of the charity. They work with all kinds of relationships between adults and families, as well as sex therapy and children and young people counselling. The charity covers Windsor, Slough, Maidenhead, High Wycombe, Amersham, South Bucks, the Chalfonts and Aylesbury.

While you are trying to ‘keep calm and carry on’ and make sure you have quality time with your children, it’s not a bad thing to reflect on your relationship with your partner and take stock of where you are as a couple and how you have grown.

“No-one wants their children to suffer a breakdown of marriage or relationship in the family, so sometimes a little time out to reflect with our expert counsellors could be just the pick-me-up you as a couple need,” adds Fiona.

If there is a family breakup, experts are there to help guide parents and children through a divorce or separation. Relate can also help parents having problems with behaviour and disciplining their children.

Sexual intimacy can also fall by the wayside when children come along. Don’t be afraid to talk about it, Relate can offer expert help with all types of problems in the bedroom department.

Being able to relate to your partner and your children will make life more enjoyable, the precious years of childhood will be easier to bear and hopefully you will no longer need a mantra to get through the day!

For more information about seeking advice or just a chat about the services on offer call the East Berkshire office on 01628 625320 or visit www.relate.org.uk of you can email Fiona at enquiries@relatemtb.co.uk

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Create your own mosaic

Mosaics

Local artist Teresa Mills has devised a simple mosaic project for children, exclusively for Families. It’s a great craft to try and perfect for a rainy day in the summer holidays. osaic is an absorbing craft for all ages, but children seem particularly responsive to it. Maybe it’s the puzzle-like design process, or the perfect look of the shiny vitreous tiles.

This project allows almost anyone to complete a mosaic, working out their own design and learning to position, glue and grout the tiles.

Whole tiles are used, so no dangerous cutting is required.

Materials: baseboard; ruler; pencil; paper; glue (PVA is ideal); 1cm and 2cm mosaic tiles; grout. (see the end of the article for suppliers).

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1. Get your baseboard and tiles ready. I used a pine IKEA mirror, but you can use any off-cut of plywood or MDF. 2. Work out a design on paper draw a simple template of the tile area by drawing around the baseboard. Then play around with the tiles trying different patterns and combinations to fit the shape.

Try alternating rows by size, blending colours along rows or juxtaposing opposites. Carry on until you are happy, then double check everything is symmetrical and fits.

3. Using the laid out tiles as a guide, measure pencil lines on the baseboard for each row.You need a gap between the tiles to be filled with grout, so the lines should allow for a between 1 mm and 3 mm extra. (For 2 cm tiles the lines should be between 21 mm and 23 mm apart.)

4. When you have drawn up the guides begin laying tiles from the top corner (top left if right handed, right if left handed). Apply enough PVA with a brush to glue 6 or so tiles at a time. The glue does not set immediately so you can prod the tiles with the other end of the brush to get them straight with even gaps. When done allow to dry overnight 5. The next day an adult should grout the mosaic - children should not do this as grout contains lime, which is an irritant. Wear plastic gloves and follow the instructions.

A mid-grey grout looks great with most colours - white fragments the design. Use a tile squeegee or a stiff piece of card to spread the mixed grout, pressing it into the gaps.

Scrape off the excess and leave for 20 minutes to begin to dry. Then, using a damp sponge, clean off the residue from the surface taking care not to disturb the grout in the gaps.

If the grout is not dry enough, leave a little longer. Buff up the tiles with a dry rag, leave overnight then give a final polish with a clean cloth and some glass cleaner if you have some.

The finished mosaic is really enhanced by the grout, pulling the design together and lifts the brightness of the tiles.

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Where to get the materials: Baseboards: off-cuts from hardware stores or buy cheap wooden items you can tile.

Grout and glue: hardware stores or specialist tile shops.

Tiles: mosaic tiles can be expensive in hobby shops - try ebay or specialist mosaic websites: www.mosaictraderuk.com does some lovely good value tile packs; www.mosaics.co.uk does larger mixed boxes.

If you or your children get the mosaic bug and want to move on to more ambitious things, Teresa has written “The Mosaic Artist’s Bible”. She’s also designed Mosaic Alphabet Kits which have everything you need to create a personalised letter in a cotton gift bag: a ply baseboard, shaped to exactly fit with the tiles included, glue and complete instructions.

Ideal for a wet afternoon, a kids’ party activity or as a goody bag! For more information go to www.teresamillsmosaics.com

JULY/AUGUST 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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Ed’s Reading Room Hi kids, parents, grandparents, teachers – and book lovers everywhere!

I’m Ed and here is my Summer book selection for you to enjoy. The books are all available online from Ed’s Reading Room at www.edontheweb.com.

Ed’s Reading Room is an exciting free online book and story club for primary children in homes and schools. Each month, recently published books are selected as Ed’s Books of the Month for Owlets (age 5-7) and Owls (over 7s). On the website, there are fun literacy activities to accompany each book, including wordsearches, quizzes, poetry and reviews, and there are new original stories in Edtime Stories. There are also lots of other fun online activities, complementary to the curriculum. Check out Ed’s Archive for Ed’s Books of the Month from previous months.

For Ages 5 to 7 years Paddington Races Ahead

by Michael Bond (HarperCollins £10.99) ED SAYS: ‘Paddington Bear finds himself in the midst of all sorts of misunderstandings as he tries to see the importance of oysters when travelling on a London bus and attempts to take up an offer with a personal trainer.

And Paddington is to star in a film – as a famous Peruvian athlete. Thank goodness for the certainty of Mrs Bird and her home-made marmalade and elevenses each day with Mr Gruber!

‘This is a brand new book about an old favourite character by the wonderful Michael Bond. Paddington continues to delight children and grown-ups alike with his madcap adventures.’

For Ages 7 years plus Guinea Pigs Online by Jennifer Gray and Amanda Swift (Quercus Books £4.99)

ED SAYS: ‘Fuzzy and Coco are two very different characters. Fuzzy adores cooking and computers whereas Coco loves being pampered and living a life of luxury. Fuzzy sees an ad by a glamorous chef – Guinea Pigs Wanted – and is keen to follow it up but Coco realises things aren’t always what they seem. When Fuzzy goes missing, Coco has to go online and find Fuzzy. Can Fuzzy be tracked down before he ends up on Scarlet Cleaver’s menu?

‘Here is a laugh-out-loud adventure about these fantastic crazy characters.

Boys and girls alike will enjoy this exciting book with its super illustrations.’

Dinosaur Olympics by Jeanne Willis (Piccadilly Press £5.99) ED SAYS: ‘The stegosauruses are throwing a party for Uncle Loops’ 190th birthday – a great excuse for a celebration but also an opportunity for the Downtown Dinosaurs to gatecrash their fun. It seems as if the proceedings will descend into a dinosaur battle but perhaps the dinomayor can establish peace with the idea of the Dinosaur Olympics. Much hilarity ensues while the dinosaurs attempt to get into shape for the games.

‘This very funny story is the latest action-packed adventure from this fantastic author. It is complemented by wonderful illustrations throughout.’

Long Lankin

by Lindsey Barraclough (Random House Children’s Books £6.99) ED SAYS: ‘Beware of Long Lankin… Cora and her younger sister Mimi are sent to stay with their Aunt Ida who offers them a rather cold welcome. Their arrival has awoken an evil that has lurked around for years. Cora and Mimi find friendship from people in the village but they would dearly love to go back to London to their former life. They hear eerie voices and see mysterious warnings – but can Cora protect her sister from such an ancient evil?

‘Inspired by a haunting ballad, this book is descriptive and atmospheric, chilling and thought-provoking. It is brilliantly written and grips the reader from beginning to end.’

Ed’s Reading Room is part of www.edontheweb.com, a DTI award-winning website. It was created by Maggie Humphreys, a teacher of more than 25 years, and Les Snowdon, who together are authors of several books on fitness walking and healthy eating. You are very welcome to contact Maggie on 01753 730019 or by email at mgh@edontheweb.com about the website or about Ed on the Web Spelling Bees in schools.

YES, YOU CAN HAVE IT ALL! Successful ‘business mum’ is seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside & without compromising family commitments or current career.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle, please call Diana Page 01235 533 362

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JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Bumps ‘n’ Babes

By Joanna Parry

Support for new mums r maybe you don’t. If you are like me then those first few weeks, even months of being a new mum are the hardest days of your life. Not only are you exhausted after weeks of broken sleep but you’re also struggling with breast feeding and getting your baby to take a bottle.Your baby is unsettled, suffers from reflux and why oh why won’t it just go to sleep?

Even if it’s your second or third baby, it’s still just as hard.

You’ve got baby blues, or perhaps even post-natal depression. Now the most important thing you can do, even if you don’t feel like it, is to get out there, meet some other new mums and get some support.

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Support groups If you’re tired, struggling to bond with or feed your baby or have a touch of the baby blues, there are plenty of support networks out there.

Health visitors – health visitors are there for the welfare of babies and their parents, and your health visitor should support you in whatever way they can.

They should get in touch with you in the first few days of you returning home from hospital, but if you don't know how to reach your Health Visitor your doctor's surgery will be able to tell you.

Home-Start is a charity that helps parents by providing volunteer support. Whether you’re struggling to look after your baby, suffering from postnatal illness or even just feeling lonely and isolated, Home-Start can help.

Volunteers offer regular support, friendship and practical help to young families under stress in their own homes.

The visits are flexible and you decide together what to do during that time. Call 08000 68 63 68 for details of your local Home-Start Children's Centres (also called the SureStart programme) have been developed throughout England to help parents, with many offering support groups for new mums as well as stay and play sessions, baby clubs, postnatal and breastfeeding classes. Find your nearest centre at www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents NCT runs Bumps, Babies and Beyond groups across the country, where you can make friends and share experiences with other new mums, and support is provided. www.nct.org.uk Drop-in centres, playgroups and baby groups offer vital postnatal support and advice. Most importantly, they don’t cost more than a pound or two.

Meet a mum and join a class Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a coffee at Starbucks or a mother-and-baby group it’s important to get out there

OPENING SOON!

DAY NURSERY…

So, you’ve had a baby. You’re a new mum and of course you’re tired, but you’re also elated and amazed at this tiny new being that has entered your life. You spend every waking hour staring in adoration at their tiny little toes and gorgeous little mouth. Your exhaustion doesn’t matter as you drift from day to day in a haze of milky delight...

and meet other new mums. The NCT arrange regular coffee mornings and local playgroups often arrange gettogethers outside of the playgroup.You don’t have to ‘join’ these groups or come every time, but you’ll be sure to get a warm welcome and you will find these meet-ups invaluable, I promise you. Alternatively join a class. This will give you an opportunity not only to meet other mums but also to bond with your baby.

Start with a baby massage class, where simple massage techniques help stimulate your baby's senses. Many local health services run free massage classes and there are plenty of private classes around too, often including postnatal support alongside baby massage. Baby massage has also been proven to help enormously with mums suffering from postnatal depression.

Baby yoga is also a great way to encourage baby-parent interaction. A natural transition from baby massage, it incorporates stretching, relaxation and yoga techniques, enabling you and your baby to create a joyful interaction.

There are many baby yoga classes across the Thames Valley. Try Jennie Phenix’s classes in Burnham and Marlow. www.phenixyoga.com Activity classes. These don’t have to be expensive, so shop around. Choose from music classes to sensory stimulation classes – even for newborns! It’s a great way to get out of the house, meet other new mums and compare notes. Find classes for young babies at www.hartbeeps.com; www.madacademy.com; www.jojingles.com; www.lynsmusicmatters.co.uk; www.teddiesmusicclub.co.uk and www.musicwithmummy.co.uk

Postnatal depression Postnatal Depression (PND) is often not fully understood by mums who experience it, yet one in three mothers will suffer from it. Becoming a parent can be a shock and it is perfectly normal to feel emotional, vulnerable and sensitive after your baby is born. Some mothers may feel confused about their feelings - they feel they should be overjoyed and instantly fall in love with their baby but this is not always the case, especially if you’ve had a difficult labour or a traumatic delivery.

Baby blues typically occur between 3-5 days after the birth, and one theory is that they coincide with the hormonal changes that occur as the breast milk starts to come in. Another theory is that they are due to the 'come down' after the effects of endorphins, or a sort of physical shock reaction after the upheaval of birth.You may feel weepy, irritable, have a low mood and feel that

you lack confidence in being able to look after your baby but these feelings usually subside after a week or so.

However, postnatal depression is more serious and must be treated immediately. Symptoms of PND can include: sleeping problems • crying a lot • not eating or over-eating • physical pains such as headaches or stomach pains or blurred vision • a lack of motivation to get up and do anything • a constant sense of anxiety, sometimes escalating into panic attacks • a feeling of being lonely or isolated • having difficulty concentrating • feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope • having no interest in sex • feeling guilty about everything and wondering if you are a bad mother • being overly protective of your baby • feeling emotionally disconnected from your baby • having frightening thoughts about harming yourself or your baby or about bad things happening

If you feel any of the above, it is important to seek professional help.Your GP may suggest antidepressant medication and/or counselling and your health visitor will know about local postnatal depression support groups.

You can also go to www.apni.org or www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk for information, support and advice. Also, tell your family and close friends, as talking about your feelings is part of the cure.

Treat yourself If you feel up to it, get a babysitter for an hour or two and treat yourself to some quality ‘me’ time. Try a day spa for a pampering and revitalising treatment, or many of the ‘Yummy Mummy’ clubs that are springing up across the country offering spa treatments as well as a range of classes and support groups for new mums, usually with crèches onsite.

Alternatively, take a walk in the park with a hot chocolate. It will do you the world of good!

Helpful websites www.nct.org.uk • www.direct.gov.uk/en/Parents www.nhs.uk • www.home-start.org.uk Support for twins www.twinsuk.co.uk • www.tamba.org.uk

OPENING SOON!

'The Natural Place to Play and Learn' OFSTED Registered Day Nursery - For children aged 2 – 5 years Open throughout the year 8 am – 6 pm except Christmas, Easter and Public Holidays.

Sessions 08.15 - 13.15, 13.30 - 18.00 or All Day Healthy meals provided For more information or to receive our prospectus please call: Shabnam on 07966 156636 or Donna on 07737 490 874 email: info@bizzkidzdaynursery.com 67 Hummer Road, Egham, Surrey, TW20 9FB

Telephone: 01628 627 586

JULY/AUGUST 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

29

Mums Who Mean Business Alison Whistler fulfilled her teenage ambition of becoming a solicitor and loves her current job as a Director of Family Law. She combines working with family life and believes that being a good listener is a vital skill in this busy role.

1. Who are you and where do you live?

My name is Alison Whistler and I live in Mortimer, Berkshire, with my husband and two daughters aged seven and five.

2. What do you do?

I'm Director of Family Law at B Legal solicitors based in Marlow. I'm a family solicitor, which means that I help clients sort out legal issues connected to the breakdown of their relationship, such as divorce, financial negotiations and children's arrangements.

3. What did you used to do?

I've always wanted to be a Family lawyer from the age of about 16 when I had work experience in a solicitor's office. I qualified as a solicitor in 1996 and after two years of training I started to specialise solely in Matrimonial and Family Law. 4. Why did you want to be a Family Lawyer?

I've always been very empathic and had a strong sense of right and wrong. I find it very rewarding to help people overcome incredibly stressful situations. I learnt early on in my career that the practical advice that I give to clients can be just as important as the legal advice that I can

offer. I've always been a good listener and over the years I've also learnt how vital good communication is, not only between solicitor and client but also between husband and wife.

5. What are your plans for the future?

I'm also the Marketing Director at B Legal and I'm currently reviewing and updating B Legal's marketing plan. I have a particular focus this year on client care as part of that strategy, and I am looking into how this can be improved. Whilst traditionally appointments with solicitors are office based, we are now looking at offering clients a choice of alternative venues and flexible appointment times, which may be particularly attractive to busy, working parents. We are also looking for opportunities to grow the company, so 2013 is certainly looking very busy for me at the moment!

For more info call: 01628 496 687; www.b-legal.co.uk

A mum from Maidenhead, Julie Gardener, tells Families how she went from analysing data to a new career making bespoke lampshades.

places available

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FAMILIES Thames Valley East

1. Who are you and where you live?

My name is Julie Gardner, I am 39 and I live in Maidenhead with my two sons (Jacob 10 and Dylan 6), husband James and our cat, Chloe.

2. Why have you changed career?

I was made redundant in February 2011 and decided to take the opportunity to do as much as possible to bring out my creative side and change my career direction completely. I studied Interior Design at East Berkshire College, I learnt how to screen-print my own fabric designs at the London Printworks Trust and made my first drum lampshade at the Make Lounge in North London.

Earlier this year I learnt how to make a traditional hand-stitched empire lampshade at Homemade London.

3. What did you used to do?

I used to analyse anti-social behaviour data for Windsor and Maidenhead council’s Community Safety team. It couldn’t be much more different from what I’m doing now!

4. What inspired you to set up the business?

I love lampshades and have become a bit obsessed with making them. It feels like I have discovered what I want to be when I grow up! It’s great to be able to offer a service to people by handmaking a lampshade that will compliment their interior. Everyone should have beautiful lampshades in their home; mine is full of them and people always comment on them.

5. What are your plans for the future?

I plan to make many more beautiful lampshades in all sorts of styles, shapes and sizes. I’ve just started running lampshade workshops and one-to-one lessons from my house in Maidenhead and I’m looking forward to teaching more in the future. I also teach at Make & Do in Caversham in Reading. My dream is to have a big workshop in my garden to work and teach from.

To find out more call 07947032178;gilhoolie.co.uk

JULY/AUGUST 2012

E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk

Classifieds Saira Majid explains how having her family inspired her to give up a high flying job to set up her own accountancy business. Working from home means she can spend time with her children and still work in a career she enjoys.

1. Who are you and where do you live?

My name is Saira Majid, I live in Holyport in Maidenhead with my husband Azhar and my three children, 11 year old Hamza, eight year old Salam and Hidaya, who is four.

2.Why did you set up the business/or why have you changed career?

I am a qualified Chartered Accountant and in 2005 I set up my own accountancy practice called Saira Majid Accountants, so I could work from home. I felt that running my own business was the best option for me because I had a young family and I wanted to be a ‘hands on’ mum. Having my business gives me both the income stream I need and the flexibility to work around my family’s needs. I now run a successful business and employ three staff.

3. What did you used to do?

I have had a number of jobs in the past, I worked as a Business Studies Lecturer in a college and since qualifying as an accountant I held various positions in multi-national companies such as ICL-Fujitsu and Xansa Plc. As a Finance Manager, I had to work long hours. If there was a deadline my team would be in the office until very late and I would log on again when I got home. I prepared accounts for our divisions in the Asia–Pacific region and the USA and because of the time differences I had to get up early and work late. Getting up at 5am for a conference call or responding to an email at 10pm wasn’t uncommon. It wasn’t easy but I enjoyed the fast paced nature of the job and didn’t have any children.

4. What inspired you to set up the business?

Since having my own family, I loved the idea of having my own business and being a ‘Mumpreneur’ and being my own boss, so for me it has been a natural progression. I think modern technology has made it easier for mothers to work from home. I often recall having to respond to client emails while feeding my baby with the other hand or working on my laptop whilst watching my son’s swimming lesson.

It hasn’t always been easy, I gave birth to my daughter by c-section and three days later I was working again as my client had a payroll deadline. I am lucky as my husband is very supportive and I couldn’t have set up my business without his help.

As an accountant I deal with lots of new business start-ups and have to give business advice too. I am very passionate about business and give my clients a lot of support and advice in addition to accountancy services. I have been made a finance director for a few of my clients as they want me to be part of their businesses too and I love it.

Charity work is very important to me as I want to give back to my community. One of the highlights of my year has been my work as a business mentor for a charity called MOSAIC; I worked on a National Enterprise Challenge with local secondary school students. I mentored a team to the live finals, where they had to do a “Dragon’s Den” style pitch about their business idea to a very prestigious panel of dignitaries. I even got to meet HRH Prince Charles, he was very kind and really interested in what we had to say.

5. What are your plans for the future?

I am really excited about the future, I feel that as my family grows older my business can grow too as I have more time to take on work.

I am always looking to develop on a personal level and take on new challenges. I will continue with my charity work and try to continue being a positive role model for other women. One thing is for sure, I cannot see myself going back into full-time employment again!

To learn more call 07877795716 or email info@sairamajid.co.uk

Telephone: 01628 627 586

Multi-sensory Touch-Typing Using a structured reading and spelling programme. I’m a qualified teacher specialising in differing learning styles including dyslexia and dyspraxia Call: Yvonne Thomas

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Candle-making parties for children and grown-ups! www.candlebynight.co.uk

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Freelance swim teacher 1 to 1 Adult at a pool near you If you would like to learn to swim Or improve your stroke please call Or text Chris 07756119011.

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Call Jane on 01753 530483 or 07536 001149 www.tracyoga.co.uk

Call Julie: 07809 636 659 Accountancy Book-keeping Tax Returns Business Start ups VAT Payroll

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Email : info@sairamajid.co.uk

JULY/AUGUST 2012

FAMILIES Thames Valley East

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