Thames Valley East July/August 2016 - Issue 85
Try before you buy!
FRE E!
SUMMER FUN SPECIAL!
01628 660 893
www.justoutdoortoys.co.uk
BIGGEST Display in the Thames Valley (just 5 mins from M4 J7) Abbey Rose Nursery, Nashdom Lane, Burnham SL1 8NJ
RECRUITING NOW
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 533362 07747 086518
...endless ideas for families of young children. Packed with interesting features and fun things to do with the family in Maidenhead - Windsor - Marlow - Ascot - Slough - Egham
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WINDSOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL t Established in 1980
Newly ed open rly in ea 15 0 Nov 2
Where children are motivated to learn independently
WINDSOR MONTESSORI SCHOOL
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Romney Lock Road, Home Park, WINDSOR SL4 6HX Tel: Email: Website:
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01753 868 399 or 01344 844 592 menik@windsor-montessori.com o www.windsormontessorischool.co.uk
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t We provide care and Montessori education for infants and children – from 6 months to 6 years. o
We are open 50 weeks of the year.
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You will find us in the stunningly renovated Crown Estate building in Old Windsor opposite the Windsor Farm Shop.
w Montessori education for 2 – 9 year olds
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Well resourced school, within a nurturing environment.
Windsor Montessori House of Children 4 Datchet Road, Old Windsor, SL42RQ For all enquiries: Tel: 01753 830 525 or 01344 844 592 Email: menik@windsor-montessori.com Website: www.windsormontessorihouseofchildren.co.uk
Providing care and education within a loving nurturing environment. t
Windsor Montessori House of Children E E
Providing development for life
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3 News & Information EDUCATION 7 News 8 Brain training during the summer 9 Starting Primary School the easy way 10 How to help your child transfer to secondary school 11 Clubs and classes news 12 Interview with Adrian Moorhouse 14 How to organise summer holiday cover 15 Summer Camps Guide Part 2 16 A-Z of Summer Fun 22 COMPETITIONS Win a family ticket to Paultons Park Win a family ticket to Odds Farm Park 23 What’s On 27 Childhood Illness- When to ask for help 28 Fruity Treats your child will love 29 Six steps to help establish a routine with your baby 30 She Means Business 31 Classifieds www.familiesonline.co.uk T: 01628 627586 F: 08717 146 305 (calls cost 10p/min) E: Editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk editor: Claire Winter circulation: 19,500 next issue: Sept/Oct 2016 due out: September 2, featuring: Back to School and Clubs & Classes
We have a great A to Z of Summer Fun on pages 16-19, which will hopefully alleviate the cries of “I’m bored” during the holidays. For your chance to win a family pass to Paultons Park and Odds Farm Park go to page 22. We also have lots of interesting features, plus an interview with Olympian swimmer Adrian Moorhouse on pages 12-13. Take some time to check our new website www.familiesonline.co.uk which launches this July and what ever you do have fun with the kids this Summer!
Celebrate Breastfeeding this August World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year from 1 to 7 August in more than 170 countries to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world. This year’s message is about how breastfeeding is a key element in getting us to think about how to value our wellbeing from the start of life, how to respect each other and care for the world we share.
Big Friendly Read This year's Big Friendly Read Summer Reading Challenge is linking up with the global year-long Roald Dahl 100 celebrations, honouring one of the world's best storytellers. The Big Friendly Read will feature some of Roald Dahl's best-loved characters and the amazing artwork of his principal illustrator, Sir Quentin Blake. It will encourage reading on a giant scale and will feature themes such as invention, mischief and friendship as explored in Roald Dahl's books.
Figures released by the Lancet earlier this year showed that only 0.5% of women in the UK breastfed after twelve months, although 34% were breastfeeding at six months. Women in Britain are encouraged to feed their baby exclusively on breast milk for the first six months and then a combination of breast milk and other foods. If you need advice or help you can contact www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk. To find out more about the week go to worldbreastfeedingweek.org
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Children can sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge at their local library at the beginning of the summer holidays, they’ll get an information pack when they join and it’s all free! Children can also create an online profile at summerreadingchallenge.org.uk.
copy/advertising deadline: July 1 Cover Image: shutterstock.com
twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE
Enrolling Now! Call your local school for details
Ascot: Bracknell: Bracknell Warfield: Henley, High Wycombe & Marlow: Maidenhead: Windsor:
01344 206466 01342 833380 0800 915 0199 01494 533 203 0118 9712870 0845 293 7207
Holiday workshops booking now! Age 4-18 Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
www.stagecoach.co.uk
JULY/AUGUST 2016
QUALITY TRAINING
ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Do you want to rebuild your confidence after taking a career break or find your ideal job?
........News & Info........
Are you struggling with work-life balance or unsure what direction you want your career to take? Whatever your career challenge, √ida Coaching can help. Visit: www.vidacoaching.co.uk Call Tanya on 07729 673 291 or Email tanya@vidacoaching.co.uk
• Baby Massage in Windsor and the surrounding area • 1:1 and classes in the comfort of your home • Plus Story Massage for ages 2+ Relax and bond with your baby using the power of massage
Summer Fitness at the Magnet... Get yourself and the family summer ready for just £3.42 per day! The Magnet Leisure Centre offers memberships to get the whole family fit, active and spending time together. Whether you want to practise your pool skills, race around the roller disco or relax in the steam room, they can help. Included in the package two adults will receive full Expressions memberships across all six sites within the borough which includes the gym, swimming pool, all studio
classes (including spinning), the health suite and racquet sports. Alongside this three children (up to age 18) will enjoy free swimming, 50% off Camp Adventure holiday activities, one free birthday party, free Cheeky Charlies entry and half price roller disco sessions. Other benefits include 10% off in Cafe Vita and 10% of all Zoggs products. Single parent options are available. Call 01628 685333 to speak to a membership advisor and arrange a tour today.
New choir for ‘tone deaf ’ singers
Please contact Romi on 07812791783 or email: blossomwithromi@gmail.com
HOWLAND TUTORS (MAIDENHEAD/MARLOW and WINDSOR/SLOUGH areas)
Expanding local agency
(established in 1998 and owned by highly experienced teachers)
offers individual tuition in twenty subjects including: all primary; Biology, Chemistry, Economics, English, French, Geography, History, Latin, Maths and Physics. Further tutors welcome Tel. (01628) 477164 www.howlandtutors.co.uk
A choir with a difference has launched at Maidenhead’s United Reformed Church every Wednesday evening from 8 - 9.15pm this summer. The Tuneless Choir is for people who can’t sing. It will be lead by local Tabitha Beavan, whose aim is to help people become more ‘light minded’. Tuneless Choirs are for anyone who loves singing but don’t think they can carry a tune. Only a small percentage of the population are officially tone deaf but many sing a little off key, this could be from lack of confidence or being out of practice. It’s this ‘not quite right’ that’s known as being ‘tuneless’. The first Tuneless Choir was set up earlier this year in Nottingham by self-confessed appalling singer Nadine Cooper, “When I was 11, our music teacher laid his hand on my arm and asked me to stop
singing. He told me I was spoiling it for everyone else. Ever since I’ve tried to avoid singing in public.” “Many community choirs do welcome non-singers but personally I’d have been far too intimidated to join one of those. And frankly I’m more interested in singing my heart out than trying to get every note right.” www.tunelesschoir.com; www.facebook.com/tunelesschoirmaidenhead
We are a super-friendly Ofsted registered day nursery providing high quality childcare for babies from three-months-old to children up to the age of five set within the bright, modern surroundings of Windsor Leisure Centre.
Open for 51 weeks a year! To find out more about our excellent new childcare facility and meet our team: Call: 01753 855543 • Email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk Visit: www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Redroofs launches Ballerina Birthday Parties Your Little Ballerina and her friends will be taken on a Magical Ballerina Journey, learn a dance, dress up in beautiful costumes and perform to their parents at the end of their experience before celebrating with your child’s party tea.You can even have a real Sparkly Ballerina to perform with you at your party! Themed Ballerina room decoration and beautiful Party Bags available. Exclusive use of two state of the art mirrored studios in Maidenhead for your party. Free onsite parking. Suitable for children ages 3-6+ years. Please email emayling@redroofsschool.co.uk, call 01628 674092 (during term time only) or visit their website www.redroofs.co.uk/ballerina-birthdays
Free online club for young dino enthusiasts The What’s so Special Club, is a brand new, free online club for young dinosaur fans and budding palaeontologists everywhere. Membership of the Club gives children access to fun dinosaur games and factoids, each designed to help children and parents expand their dinosaur knowledge. With colouring sheets to download, dinosaur brain teasers and quizzes. The club has been created by dinosaur expert Nicky Dee and supports the ‘What’s so Special About?’ series of dinosaur books for children. The site is designed to complement the information in the books, but can also be used as a stand-alone resource to help children (and adults) learn while having fun. To join go to www.specialdinosaurs.com and click on the link.
Stick on clothing labels – makes naming uniform easy Get ready early for back to school this year with name labels for clothing, ties and uniforms. Stick on labels is the easy way to label clothing - no ironing or sewing necessary! Just stick the adhesive name label onto the care label of what you want to label and you’re finished. High-quality labels made to order in the UK. Developed especially for clothes and with strong adhesion to last many washes. Many other alternative name labels also available and personalised gifts including major brands like Disney, Mattel and Nickelodeon. Order early, beat the rush and get some peace of mind this summer. Labels4Kids – because kids lose stuff. www.labels4kids.com/fam
Come and be part of the adventure! Weekdays at Windsor Leisure Centre and Magnet Leisure Centre, Maidenhead and at the Beacon Centre, Saturdays at BCA (Berkshire College of Agriculture) Classes across all the major dance disciplines, including ballet, modern, tap and street dance, with fully teachers from one of the area’s bestloved and longest-established dance schools.
to book your free trial, email Candy.
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Telephone: 01628 627 586
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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News & Info Keep Tabs on your Teen If your child has a phone and you worry about it running out of battery when they might need it most, then the E10p app is for you. Launched recently for Android (with the Apple version expected later this year), it allows you to keep track of the phone’s (and therefore your child’s) location, as well as the battery life their phone has. Once charge becomes low, it sends a message to the parent who can opt to swap it to a power-saving mode automatically. The app is password protected (so the kids can’t fiddle with it) and protects their blushes by being discreet, so their friends don’t know their parents are following them! Built for child safety, as well as parent’s peace of mind, the app will at least do away with the ‘but my battery ran out’ argument when they come home late!
Special Offer in next issue of Keep an eye out in our Back to School issue for a very special promotion for the award-winning Reading Eggs programme. For all you mums and dads who haven’t yet seen how Reading Eggs can help your children learn to read, make sure you pick up the September/October issue!
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CALL TO BOOK NOW For advertising in our September/October 2016 issue due out September 2. Featuring: Back to School
Call: 01628 627586
Get baking and hold a ‘royal’ knees up in aid of Meningitis charity Help her majesty celebrate a milestone year, the best way you know how, with your very own Right Royal Tea Party in aid of Meningitis Now. Put on a spread fit for a queen, make your own crowns, and enjoy the finest in regal entertainment and raise much needed funds, for those affected by meningitis at the same time. Loyal subjects will receive a party pack including fundraising tips, donation boxes, balloons, invitations and coasters, to make sure it’s a really royal theme. There are also regal recipes and glorious game ideas such as Pin the Tail on the Corgi, Hunt the Crown and Royal Relay! To request your Right Royal Tea Party pack go to: www.time-4-tea.org. For more information about the charity or to donate visit the website at www.MeningitisNow.org
Maidenhead & Windsor Childminding Group The High Quality Childcare Choice
Childminders provide a safe, warm and caring environment in our own homes where children feel welcomed and loved. They are able to learn and develop at their own pace with guidance and support.
• Ofsted Registered • Qualified and experienced • Childcare vouchers accepted • Funding accepted • Flexible hours and days • Low ratios • Continuous care - baby and beyond • Outings and real life learning
Real Live Sparkly Ballerinas can perform at your party! Find F ind us on Facebook Facebook - Redroofs Red R edroofs ed ooffs P Parties arties E:: eemayling@redroofs-school.co.uk E may maylin ayling@ g@rredrooffs-s s-school.co.u uk | T: T: 01 0162 01628 6288 67 674092 740 4092 92 | ww www.redroofs.co.uk/parties ww ww w..red edroofffss.cco.uk/pa k/paartie ties Redroofs R edrroof ed oofs fs School School ffor or th the he P Performing erfforming orming Ar A Arts, rts, 26 B Bath ath Road, ath Road, oad, M Maidenhead, aidenhead, B Berkshire, erkshi kshirre, SL6 SL6 44JT JT
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www.maidenheadandwindsorchildmindinggroup.org.uk
JULY/AUGUST 2016
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
........Education News........
Goyals thanks loyal customers and schools Goyals, the local school uniform suppliers, who we covered celebrating their 50th anniversary in our last issue has been overwhelmed with all the support they have received for achieving this milestone anniversary. On behalf of the Goyals team and family, Mrs Seema Goyal, who runs the business today, would like to express her heartfelt gratitude for everyone's support now and
over the past 50 years. “The support and well wishes we have received has been so overwhelming for us all. I am honoured to carry on the legacy of my parents in-law, who had a vision 50 years ago, in starting their own business and with grace and humbleness grew Goyals as an established business in Maidenhead. When we are asked how we have been able to sustain our success. Our answer is always the
School Uniform, Sportswear Custom Clothing Solutions & Workwear
same, we ensure we provide the best customer service and treat our customers like an extension of our family, as we endeavour to see their children growing up throughout the years.” www.goyals.co.uk
Government U-Turn on Academies The Government has backed down from its plans to force all schools to become Academies. Plans to require all schools to become academies were announced in the Budget. However, after threats of industrial action by teachers and dissent from fellow Conservatives, the department announced that the plans would be scrapped. Education Secretary Nicky Morgan claims that it is because the Government is listening to the people and has made the U-turn due to concerns expressed by parents, education experts, head teachers and teachers. Two thirds of secondary schools already have Academy status, though their success has been mixed with some falling short of their aims and exam results. Nicky Morgan said that the Government had “listened” to opponents of the scheme. “Making every school an academy is the best way to ensure every child, regardless of birth or background, has access to a world-class education,” she said. “However, having listened to the feedback from parliamentary colleagues and the education sector we will now change the path to reaching that goal.”
Advertise for as little as £60 plus VAT.
Call: 01628 627586
Highfield celebrates 100% success rate Highfield Preparatory School is excited to announce a record success rate for the Year 6 girls moving onto secondary schools. The school is celebrating 100% acceptance at Queen Anne’s, 100% acceptance at The Marist and 100% acceptance at St Georges. A record total of seven scholarships have been awarded including three for sport, one drama, one music, one maths and one academic. Several girls have also passed the 11+ entry to Borlase and Kendrick schools. Highfield is the only all-girls primary school located in the heart of Maidenhead, it prides itself on supporting the girls so that they go on to succeed in a secondary school that is best-suited to their needs and abilities. Joanna Leach, Headteacher at the school, commented “The girls leave Highfield confident and ready for the next stage of their lives, both educationally and emotionally. They know the value of hard work, determination and how to work together as a team. Our girls make friends for life at Highfield, and once a Highfield girl, always a Highfield girl. We are immensely proud of them as they prepare to move on to secondary school and know they will continue to achieve and enjoy life.” Find out more at www.highfieldprep.org Telephone: 01628 627 586
JULY/AUGUST 2016
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Education
HOW TO KEEP YOUR CHILD’S BRAIN TICKING OVER THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS By Liat Hughes Joshi The summer holidays are a well-earned break but such a lengthy spell away from school means learning can slip back, with children often forgetting core skills they previously learnt.
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he good news though is there are fun ways to prevent this so-called ‘summer slide’, whilst still leaving masses of time for relaxing and playing. 1.The Summer Reading Challenge This runs in UK libraries and is designed to encourage children’s reading through the holidays. Those who finish six books over the six-week period receive rewards and a certificate and it’s completely free! http://summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/ 2. Send postcards Kids can share holiday news with grandparents or friends via a postcard and practise their writing.Younger ones can practice letter formation, whilst older children could incorporate stronger
vocabulary.You can also can use an app to create a postcard go to www.postsnap.com 3. Break out the board games Many board games incorporate maths. Practise counting with Kerplunk and Snakes and Ladders, or for junior school kids, Monopoly involves money, addition, subtraction and multiplication. 4. Keep a holiday scrapbook Get them started with keeping a record of their most exciting moments of the summer. Even a word or sentence under a picture or stuck-in memento is a great start. 5. Add learning to everyday activities Daily life is full of educational opportunities. It might be weighing and measuring ingredients when baking cakes or budgeting in the toy shop.
6. Begin a blog Tap into their interests and suggest they blog about them – it could be sportsrelated, about cooking or outings they’ve been on. 7. Ready, get set, go for some Olympic learning Capitalise on Olympic interest by suggesting reading the sports section of the paper or setting up a medal winners’ league table by country. See our interview with Adrian Moorhouse the Olympian swimmer on pages 12 to 13. 8. Work on non-academic skills that are useful too With much less going on compared to term time, the holidays are a perfect opportunity to work on age-appropriate skills your child could do with picking up or honing. Improving their swimming, doing their shoelaces up, or getting used to becoming a shade more independent by, say, walking to post a letter or to the corner shop, are all worthwhile ideas.
Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including 'New Old-fashioned Parenting' and 'How to Unplug Your Child' (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children:The Primary Years (Pearson).
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
STARTING PRIMARY SCHOOL THE EASY WAY By Liat Hughes Joshi
Starting primary school is a major milestone in your little one’s childhood – and indeed in your life too. So how can you ease them into this big change and limit the potential for tears on the first day? Here are a few tips to help you prepare your little one for their very first day at “big school”… Help your child get used to the idea of school In the months approaching the big day, read books about going to school together – Janet Ahlberg’s Starting School or Lauren Child’s I am Absolutely Too Small for School are ideal. This will introduce them to what goes on and let you discuss school together, answering any questions your child might have. Talk too about your own happy school memories or encourage an older sibling or friend to discuss the things they enjoy at their primary school. Build familiarity with their new school Attending settling-in sessions is invaluable to build familiarity and demystify what school is all about. They’ll let your little one meet their teachers, see the classroom, dinner hall and loos, and at least a few prospective classmates. Meanwhile, if you’re driving or walking past the school, point out positive features, such as the playground equipment. Don’t worry about reading, writing and maths beforehand Many parents are concerned that their child can’t recognise letters or count before they begin school but remember this is what they’ll be going there to learn – teachers don’t expect any prior knowledge. Focus instead on non-academic ‘school ready’ skills: things like going to the loo independently and cleaning themselves afterwards, putting their own coat on and
eating using cutlery. Being able to listen, sit still, share and follow instructions will make school life easier too. The day or two before the big day… Highlight the things they’re excited about, such as a toy that caught their eye in the reception classroom, or seeing the lovely teacher or their friend from nursery again. Pre-empt their anxieties too – these can be little things, for example, how to let the teacher know if they need the loo, or what happens if they don’t like any of the lunch options. Double check where you are meant to be and when on the first day and what your child needs to bring with them. If you’ll be driving, remember to work out where you’ll park – mum or dad spending 30 minutes getting flustered because you’re late and can’t find a space will not create a relaxed mood for day one.
Education The night before… Ease the morning rush by getting everything ready now – uniform laid out, packed lunch made (if they aren’t having school lunches) and school bag packed. Help the first morning run smoothly Getting kids from bedroom to classroom on time can be challenging even for the most organised parents. Minimise stress (and how many times you have to say ‘hurry up’) by putting away any toys or turning off screens that are too distracting. Be clear with your child about what needs doing when and keep any messy eaters in PJs until breakfast is over, to avoid ruining that pristine first-day uniform. It’s time to go in… We all want that perfect first day photo but don't make them late – and irritable – with endless attempts to get it. Stringing out your goodbyes for ages can end in tears that otherwise wouldn't happen – simply remind them to have fun and that you'll be there to collect them later and give them a hug. If they’re nervous or unsure, start a small ritual, perhaps putting a ‘kiss’ in their pocket for them to grab later if they’re missing you. Don’t forget the tissues There’s a time and a place for concealing your own feelings from your children and if you’re upset or anxious, this is one of them! Try your best to wait until you’re out of sight before sobbing, otherwise you could confuse or upset your child unnecessarily. Once they’ve gone in, if the waterworks do roll, rest assured you probably won’t be the only one, so don’t worry about what other parents or teachers think!
Wednesday 21st September 2016
Telephone: 01628 627 586
JULY/AUGUST 2016
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Education
HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD TRANSFER TO SECONDARY SCHOOL By Liat Hughes Joshi
During the months before your little one makes the big move to secondary school, it’s recommended that you begin the following…
Ramp up responsibilities Senior school children have to be considerably more responsible for their own belongings and themselves. Whereas primary school teachers send letters to parents, at ‘big’ school, communication on day-to-day issues might well be to your child only. Begin building independence out and about Most secondary school pupils travel to school minus mum and dad, so get yours used to being out without you. It’ll be less daunting for them if this starts on the journey to primary school, rather than being thrown into travelling alone on a lesser-known route. Listen out for concerns Some children take this huge change in their stride and are ready to move on, while others will feel anxious. Common concerns include getting lost around a
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much larger school, dealing with the journey, making new friends and managing the homework load. Attend settling-in days Most secondaries hold a session for new joiners, usually during the summer term of year six. This is an important opportunity to get to know the buildings, potential classmates and teachers and it should make the first day less intimidating.
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Here are a few tips to keep in mind once your child has started secondary school… Expect them to be tired and emotional… Many year sevens get very tired thanks to the ‘newness’, on top of a longer day and a more complicated journey. Stick to early nights and restful weekends to fend off exhaustion – and the moodiness that goes with this. Get super-organised with homework At primary, pupils might only have had a small amount of homework; expect the game to be raised now. Not only will there be more but keeping on top of when it all needs handing in can be complicated. Get used to knowing much less about what goes on In primary, you might well have been at the school gates most days and familiar with your child’s friends, parents and teachers. This will change: with independent travel comes a more hands-off approach. Be there for them It’s tempting to think this independence means you’re being made redundant come September but they’ll still need you - albeit in different ways. Be there as a sounding board - someone to listen and advise. Liat Hughes Joshi is a parenting journalist and the author of four books including 'New Old-fashioned Parenting' and ' How to Unplug Your Child' (both published by Summersdale) and Raising Children:The Primary Years (Pearson).
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Clubs & Classes News
New baby and story massage classes in Windsor Blossom with Romi offers baby massage classes and 1:1 sessions in Windsor and the surrounding area in the comfort of your own home. Massage can help with relaxation, bonding, body awareness, coordination and wind and colic. Romi also offers Story Massage for 2 years and up and Children’s guided pranic meditiation for children aged 5+. Meditation can help with anxiety, stress and sleep issues. It also can improve concentration, co-ordination and memory. To find out more call 07812791783 or email blossomwithromi@gmail.com
Perform X Dance classes coming to Windsor and Marlow Perform X dance classes are coming to Windsor and Marlow in September! Brought to you by Perform, the children’s drama school, these unique street and hip hop classes for 6-12 year olds are designed to boost coordination, improve concentration and give children a fun, energetic way to develop physical skills and get fit. Perform X is offering Families readers an exclusive £40 off their first ten sessions booked for classes in Windsor and Marlow. To secure your spot call 020 7255 9120 or email enquiries@perform.org.uk quoting code FAML011016. Spaces are limited so early booking is recommended! Telephone: 01628 627 586
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Rio Olympics 2016
OLYMPIAN ADRIAN MOORHOUSE TALKS TO FAMILIES
With the Rio Olympics only a matter of weeks away, Claire Winter talks to Olympian Adrian Moorhouse MBE about life after winning gold.
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drian Moorhouse MBE was a world champion at 22, and Olympic gold medallist in the 100m breaststroke at Seoul two years later. He now uses the skills he learned as a swimmer in his performance coaching business, Lane4 based in Bourne End, Bucks. I talked to him about his life as a professional athlete, his business and commentating at this year’s Olympics. Having learned to swim at the age of six, he went on to swim for his teacher’s club, then for his school in Yorkshire. It all changed when he started swimming for the City of Leeds Swimming Club. “By 15 I was swimming 20 hours a week. I was tired and my schoolwork suffered, although I did ok at what we now call GCSEs. But on the positive side, I had massive progress in swimming at the age of 15. I won the national age groups for my age but I also came second in the senior championships. At the age of 15 I was on the junior and senior British team. “From the age of 16 I became the British number one for men. By 17 I was third in Europe and by 18 I had won the Commonwealth Games.
“I left school and went to university in America for a while and learnt great technique around nutrition, psychology and strength training and came back to the UK to Leeds. “I had reached the pinnacle of success in 1986 at the age of 22 when I was world number one, at 23 I broke the world record and at 24 I got gold at Seoul and I had even better years after that. I competed in two other Olympics, 1992 was my last Olympics and I retired at 28.” After retiring Adrian worked on the British Swimming Team in Talent Development for three years, and then set up his own company Lane4. “When we set up Lane4, we took sports psychology and put it into business. I applied all the things I learnt as a swimmer. You have to have focus and you have to have goals. When you are a swimmer you
Learn to swim the eZee way in just 4 weeks -children one to one and two to one classes -all ages and abilities -crash courses
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JULY/AUGUST 2016
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
01628 821145
07721 422554
Bringing all the fun of the farm to your school, Home, Private Party, Family Funday or Fete, also providing beneficial therapeutic/sensory sessions for visits to Nursing Homes or Special Needs Activities.
Call Pete to discuss your requirements, and obtain prices e: farm@basilandcrew.co.uk • www.basilandcrew.co.uk
can be selfish because you compete as an individual. Knowing where to gather support and expertise for my performance business is very different. I‘ve got to be my best but I’ve got to know how to get the best out of my team too.” Adrian has commentated on Olympic swimming since 1998 and will be at Rio this year. He has high hopes for the British swimming team. “I am really happy to be commentating at Rio. A fantastic British swimmer, Adam Peaty, has recently won the European Championships. He’s also a breaststroker and won the World Championships last year. So he goes into Rio in the same position I was in, when I won the gold at Seoul. I am really excited about hopefully seeing him win gold for Britain. It will be the first time we have had someone win it since I won back in 1988.” We turned to discussing being a parent and how to encourage our kids in sport.
WAKEBOARDING • WATERSKIING • OPEN WATER SWIMMING LAKESIDE DINING & BAR • BEACH • AQUA PARK • PRO SHOP
EUROPE’S LARGEST AQUA PARK THIS JUNE!!
“Our job is to support and create an environment me where they feel cared for because it should be the coach who challenges them and pushes them and give them feedback on their stroke, running or throwing. “You have parents who see that their child is talented but if their child doesn’t want do it – they won’t succeed. They’ve got to want it themselves, you have to create opportunity, find out what someone is passionate about and also recognise that it might not be your passion or interest. “Equally you need to teach your children about staying power. You’ve got to help kids look at focus and commitment. Try and find out why they don’t want to do something and give them a reason to continue with it.
OPEN TO BOTH ADULTS AND CHILDREN FROM AGES 8YRS UP
“At 12 and 13 kids often get dispirited because they are coming fifth or sixth but if they keep practising they will improve. Tell them to compare yourself, against yourself, rather than another individual and most importantly, be the best that you can be.” It’s great advice from a very inspirational man, whose spirit and determination has defined all that he is done in sport and business. I am looking forward to hearing him commentate at Rio and hopefully see Adam Peaty and the rest of Team GB bring home some medals. Telephone: 01628 627 586
FIND OUT MORE AT LIQUIDLEISURE.COM LIQUID LEISURE, HORTON ROAD, DATCHET, BERKSHIRE, UK, SL3 9HY
JULY/AUGUST 2016
TEL: +44(0)1753 542 500 FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Summer Fun - Childcare
HOW TO ORGANISE SUMMER HOLIDAY COVER By Claire Muffett-Reece
Juggling work and childcare over the summer holidays needn’t be an issue with our handy guide… Holiday play schemes/summer camps Catered to fit around school hours, this form of daycare is often based on themes to appeal to your youngster, such as football, swimming , dance and drama, to name a few. This can be booked daily or weekly and is a fun way for your child to meet new friends and gain skills. Check out our Summer Camps guide below for some great ideas. Relatives Ask close family members to see if they could help.Your parents or in-laws are ideal, as most will revel in the chance to bond with – and spoil– their grandchildren. Just remember to stick to set times and help by sending your kids with pocket money towards that trip to the zoo. It might be free for you, but it won’t be free for them! School mums Have a chat with mums at the school gates to see if they can help. Make sure you only ask people you feel confident leaving your child with, and take a box of chocolates over at the end of the day as a thank you. Most mums might instead prefer a ‘swap’ in return, where
they look after your child one day and you look after theirs another. Childminders Childminders are a great option over the holidays, with many parents sticking to the same person they normally use during term time. Ask friends who they recommend, or look online for Ofsted-registered carers. Just remember to
school holiday activities again this year! With a variety of 1, 2 and 5 day courses running weekdays from 9.30am-5pm your child can learn to kayak, canoe, stand up paddleboard, dinghy sail and windsurf. Work towards one sport alone or gain essential skills in a variety of sports. Courses are suitable for 8-15 years with sibling discounts available. Course price include wetsuits, buoyancy aids and 5-day courses include relevant RYA and BCU log-books and certificates. Day courses: £59, 5-day courses: £255 info@braylake.com 01628 638860; www.braylake.com Bucks School of Dance: THEATRE PLUS at Wycombe Abbey School. New summer school includes daily singing, dancing and acting classes. Plus, a trip to see the matinee performance of The Railway Children in London and workshops in costume and make up. August 22–26, 10am-3.30pm, daily £35, week £160, (theatre trip included in weekly price). To reserve your space, email: candidabarker@btinternet.com Busy Buttons CREATIVE & SPORTY CAMP. 3-14 year olds are offered a fantastic opportunity to learn and express themselves using digital and traditional media while model making sets, props, puppets, costumes, execute design concepts from 2D to 3D, to animate, sculpt, sew, paint, film and more, tutored by experienced film and television professionals. OFSTED APPROVED, The camp is held at Upton House School, Windsor from 11 July – 12 August, 8:30am - 4pm (extended hours 8am - 6pm) CHILDCARE VOUCHERS ACCEPTED. RBWM Advantage Card discount and other offers. They are also an Arts Award Centre. 07952418212, contact@busybuttons.org; www.busybuttons.org
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Wondering what do with the children this summer? Take a look at our great selection of local Camps and Activities, which will keep your kids entertained all holiday long…
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Claire Muffett-Reece is a freelance journalist who writes on parenting, lifestyle, health and general interest. Mum to Jack, five, and Max, three, her work has been published in The Evening Standard,The Metro and Cosmopolitan, among others
EzeeSwim offers one-to-one and two-to-one SWIMMING CRASH COURSES during the holidays in Windsor and the surrounding area. For more information go to www.ezeeswim.co.uk or call 07766258279. Hands-on-Art Adventures will be running CREATIVE WORKSHOPS each morning 10am-11:30am (Tues-Fri) during May the Summer Holidays, the Potters Wheel can also be booked on Holiday afternoons. Pop-in to paint pottery any time. For more information on all our Pottery, Art & Craft Activities please see www.hands-onartadventures.co.uk or call Janet on 01753 206 265 Jump In & Wise Owls have teamed up to create fun filled HOLIDAY ACTIVITY CAMPS from 9am-5pm during the Summer holidays! Providing challenging and fun activities for children aged 5-12 years old with a number of sports, play and craft activities. The children are cared for by their friendly, qualified and caring team. There will be 2 hours of jumping every day along with a variety of games and activities for all ages. Ofsted Approved. £25 for a whole day of supervised fun! Childcare vouchers accepted. 01753 387080, hello@gojumpin.com; www.gojumpin.com/trampolineholiday-camps-are-here/ Little Kickers will be running a SUMMER CAMP for 3.5 - 7 year olds at St. Edwards Middle School, Windsor from Monday August 1- Friday August 5.You can attend any number of days with a discount if you book for the whole week. For further details you can email sleslie@littlekickers.co.uk or call 07412166686.Visit their website for further information about their classes www.littlekickers.co.uk Liquid Leisure Waterski & Wakeboard. THE KIDS CABLE CLUB runs Saturday and Sunday mornings 9am & 10am. Beginner Boat & Cable Courses are suitable for first time waterskiers or wakeboarders from 5 years old. Set on a freshwater private lake, the waterpark also features Europe's largest Aqua Park suitable for 8 years plus, beach area, open swimming (8 years plus) and a licensed café bar.Visit www.liquidleisure.com, email info@liquidleisure.com or call 01753 542 500.
Holiday Camps & Classes Part 2...
Amanda’s Art Classes for small groups of children aged 6-13. Amanda will be running Summer ART WORKSHOPS in Ascot from 10-12am and 2-4pm; call 01344 885086 or 0796 882 4560 or email a.kavanagh@amandasart.co.uk for further details. www.amandasart.co.uk Art Classes for Children will be running a daily art camp for children and adults during the week in August. Each week they will meet at a different park and enjoy painting a landscape and have a picnic. Marinela will choose the best artwork for an exhibition at the end of the month. For more information please visit www.artclassesgroup.com or call 07501 644537. Artspiration will be offering a four-day workshop, Art Scout Juniors at St Peter's Church, Maidenhead, SL6 7QU. Suitable for children aged 5-12 years, packed with Art and Craft this summer. Children will work on mosaics, print making, mod roc, plaster casting, pencil shading, water colours, soft pastels, etc. These workshops are led by Artspiration teachers who are all professional artists and well experienced with working with children. They are also offering a 10% discount if you refer a friend. Register your interest now as places are limited. For more details go to artspiration.co.uk or email info@artspiration.co.uk Blossom ballet is offering a FREE TASTER CLASS for children aged 18 months to 10 years this summer. Please email Miss Lucy at lucy@blossomballet.com or call 07813084283 for more details and to book a place. www.blossomballet.com Bray Lake Watersports are offering their ever-popular
ask what stipulations they have, such as whether you still pay if your child is sick or you go away. Working from home Explain your childcare struggle to your boss as soon as possible in the hope they might be sympathetic to your situation. If they agree to you working from home be sure to complete all your tasks on time – regardless of any distractions! Not getting your job done will soon be picked up by management, meaning you’ll be refused if you ever broach the subject again!
The Magnet Leisure Centre will be running CAMP ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES for children from 5-12 years. All sessions are guaranteed to be active and lots of fun and a great place to make new friends. Sports days on site include activities such as nerf dart tag, body zorbing, go karts, bouncy castles and days out include Odds Farm, Odeon cinema, Tenpin bowling, ice skating and trips to the Lookout Discovery Centre. Opening times are 8.30am - 5.00pm. The holiday camp is running Monday 25th July - Wednesday 31st August. Book spaces to avoid disappointment. Call 01628 685333 for more information. Moon Tuition 11+ SUMMER CAMP takes place in Maidenhead and Reading during August to prepare students for their upcoming 11+ exams in early September. The summer is arguably the most crucial stage in their preparation for the exams and it is paramount for their success that they take extra tuition during this period. Moon Tuition 11+ Summer Camp is designed to help children enjoy the long summer holidays, make new friends while participating in fun activities without ruining their chances of 11+ success. Many of the 11+ alumni found the Summer-Intensive Course to be very beneficial in improving their results and in building their confidence. Please find more information about the 11+ summer camp here: www.moontuition.co.uk/summer-school.php Phoenix Gymnastics Club will be holding their popular daily summer camps SUMMERSAULTS throughout the holidays for 5-12 year olds, members and non members. Have fun and be taught gymnastics by their British Gymnastics qualified coaches and enjoy the experience in their fully equipped gym with sprung floor, beam, bars and vaults. Go to www.phoenixgym.co.uk for all the information, email info@phoenixgym.co.uk or call 01628 778 881 to book a place Razzamataz Marlow SUMMER ACADEMY at St Peter's Primary School, Marlow from 15-19 August. Based on the hit musical and classic Disney film ‘The Lion King’. The week will be action packed with singing, dancing and acting, as well as prop making, audition technique and lots of fun! All ending in a presentation for friends and family. 9:30am-12:30pm. 4-7 year olds. £85. 9:30am-3:30pm. 8-16 year olds. £135. Earlier 12:30 finish on Friday for presentation. Early-bird booking discount of 10% if booked before 31 May. Contact marlow@razzamataz.co.uk, visit www.marlow.razzamataz.co.uk or call 01628 854944. Redroofs School for the Performing Arts is running ONSTAGE HOLIDAY WEEKS at their school in Littlewick Green, Maidenhead, SL6 3QY, for children aged 6-14. Monday 25 July - Friday 29 July, WEST END TO BROADWAY (ages:614); Monday 1 August - Friday 5 August, LITTLE GIRLS ANNIE WARBUCKS WEEK (ages: 6-13); Monday 8 August - Friday 12 August, IT’S THE BIZ (ages:815); Monday 15 August- Friday 19 August, CHARLIE’S BUCKETFUL OF MUSICALS (ages:5-10+); Monday 22 August - Friday 26 August, A SPOONFUL OF MUSICAL THEATRE (ages:6-13). The only Musical Theatre course where children can enjoy a refreshing dip in a heated outdoor pool, beautiful gardens and an onstage real theatre experience. £245.00. Call 01628 674092; www.redroofs.co.uk Rush Trampoline Park in High Wycombe. Put a spring in their step and book a SUMMER CAMP at Rush in July or August. Trampolining, fitness, tumbling, freestyle, dodgeball and other ball games including wipeout. Contact hello@rushuk.com to register your interest or visit www.rushuk.com Sanders Street is holding its DANCE SUMMER CAMP from 15-18 of August at Cox Green Leisure Centre. Sanders Street is a fun and friendly environment for students to build confidence and keep active. Dance is a great way to meet to new friends and what better time to do this whilst trying something new during the school holidays? Their Summer camps include workshops with guest teachers from London's top dance studios at half of the price! 9am - 12.30pm, Pandas ages 4-7. 9am - 4pm Juniors & Seniors ages 8-18. Email to book info@sandersstreet.co.uk or visit www.sandersstreet.co.uk Seriously FUN Swimming Schools are running school holiday 5 DAY INTENSIVE CRASH COURSE swimming lessons at the Teikyo School, Wexham and St Pirans School, Maidenhead for children aged 3-12. From 25th - 29th July, cost £70. Book online at www.seriouslyfun.net or call 01753 364 364. Stagecoach Henley, High Wycombe and Marlow will be holding HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS at Wycombe High School, Marlow Hill, High Wycombe, from Monday 1 - Friday 5 August. JUNGLE JIVE (4-6yrs), 9.30am-12.30pm, £90, sibling £65. This 5-day workshop is perfect for budding young performers. MAKE BEAUTY & THE BEAST(6-16yrs), 9.15am - 4.15pm, £50 deposit, £160, sibling £130. Make new friends and gain confidence. RAZZLE DAZZLE BROADWAY (15+ years), 10am-5pm, £160, sibling £130. Get involved with this high energy and fun musical. Workshops are open to all; there's limited spaces available, so get booking now! Call 01494 533203 or email highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk; www.stagecoach.co.uk/highwycombeandmarlow The school summer holidays are a time for children to have fun whilst keeping active in body and mind. Super Camps give children the opportunity to do just that, with a range of CAMPS and COURSES to suit everyone. Camps are full of great new activities for 2016, with a guarantee of water activities at all camps during the summer. They have received yet another ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating in 2016. Camps are being held in Sir William Borlase's Grammar School, John Hampden Grammar School and Hurst Lodge School. Standard prices start from £42 per day and £190 per week, call 01235 467300 or visit www.supercamps.co.uk for details. Wise Owls Club will be running at Highfield School, West Road, Maidenhead, from Monday July 11 to Friday September 2. JUNIOR CLUB for ages 3-7 (sports, play and craft activities with outings to places of fun or interest such as (Madhouse, Beale Park and the cinema). DISCOVERY CLUB for ages 7-13 (football, dancing, horseriding and tennis with outings to places such as Laser Quest, Coral Reef, fruit picking and the cinema) A healthy lunch and tea is an option for both clubs. They also have visits from fur & feathers, a visit to the space planetarium and much more. Times: 9am-5pm, extended day 8am-6pm. 0844 561 1606; www.wiseowlsclub.co.uk. They have also just partnered up with Jumpin, Slough and will be operating a holiday club with them! Bookings via Jumpin web site!
Telephone: 01628 627 586
Before School, After School & Holiday clubs
Phone 0844 561 1606 Arts & crafts, sports, dance, drama, cinema, yoga, day trips…optional lunch & tea
Holiday, Breakfast & After School clubs 3 – 14yrs Holiday clubs > Highfield School, Maidenhead > Jumpin, Slough After school clubs > Courthouse > Oldfield > Furze Platt Schools > Holyport Scout Hut, Maidenhead Breakfast club > Pinkneys Green Centre > St. Peters Church, Maidenhead
Summer club dates 11th July – 2nd September 2016 Quality childcare from just £3.60 per hour E: info@wiseowlsclub.co.uk W: www.wiseowlsclub.co.uk
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A to Z of Summer Fun BANISH BOREDOM THIS SUMMER Welcome to the school holidays... Now what? To alleviate the inevitable question of “what are we doing today?” Take a look at our A to Z list of summer fun. A
Visit Europe’s largest Aqua Park at Liquid Leisure in Datchet. They offer cable skiing, wake boarding and water skiing. They also have their very own lakeside beach, sauna, jacuzzi and restaurant! liquidleisure.com
B BFG Dream Jar Trail – to commemorate the release of this fantastic adaptation and Roald Dahl’s 100th E birthday, there will be a magical FRE trail of jars across London and Great Missenden from 8 July to 31 August. roalddahl.com/blog/2016/may/the-bfgdream-jar-trail C
Why not visit the Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont St Giles and enjoy lots of exciting family events and living history. There are re-enactment events every weekend throughout the school holidays.
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21 August where you can visit their encampment and watch battle displays. Discover what life was like in Tudor Times and gather with the Militia to oppose the Armada in a spectacular August Bank Holiday event 28 – 29 August. Bring the whole family for unforgettable days of discovery and explore 2000 years of history! coam.org.uk
D Do the splits in the air at Jump In Trampoline arena in Slough.You can book in for free jump sessions, jump and play, tumble track lessons, fitness sessions and under-5 playtime. They are also running a Summer Camp in conjuction with Wise Owls see page 14 for more details. www.gojumpin.com E Experience something truly extraordinary, if you love cars and are
Come and see the Ragged Victorians on 23 – 24 July: meet authentic Victorian characters and try not to let them pick your pockets! Take your life into your hands when you meet the Highwaymen on 30 – 31 July. Be transported back to the Napoleonic era in Sharpe’s Rifles on 6 – 7 August. Learn about Medieval England in Medieval Pageantry on 13 – 14 August and watch out for the Vicious Vikings on 20 –
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
A to Z of Summer Fun more than 1.5m tall then this new racing car simulator is for you. Based in Slough and using cutting edge technology, the Motion Simulation Room provides the most fun you can have on a rainy day. Please see: motionsimulationroom.com for further information. Go to page 20 to read our review.
F
Fancy a spot of fruit picking? There’s nothing more fun than harvesting your own fruit or vegetables. Try your local Pick Your Own farm. Copas farms are local and they also have this handy crop calendar, copasfarms.co.uk/pick-your-own/cropcalendar.
G Grow a salt crystal! Stir salt into boiling hot water until the salt has dissolved. Place a spoon into a jar then pour E FRE solution in, tie a piece of string to the spoon so that it dangles into the solution (add a paperclip to prevent the string from floating). Then wait for the crystals to form.
H Have a head for Heights? Then HighSports Climbing Wall is the one for you. From as young as 4, there is something for all ages, the sky’s the limit. See website for details: high-sports.co.uk/climbingwalls/wycombe
Telephone: 01628 627 586
I Invest in a tie-dye kit from a craft shop,
M Maidenhead has a packed summer of
then go wild! Handkerchiefs are a favourite but anything cotton can E be used to make something E R F spectacular. Make daddy the talk of the office with his brightly coloured socks, either way the children will enjoy the unveiling of every new design they make.
events with something on almost every weekend and many of them are FREE. Particular highlights include a live screening of Wimbledon, Maidenhead Festival and a Beer & Cider Festival taking place at Desborough College. There are also lots of local groups putting on fantastic arts and entertainment events throughout the summer. For full listings visit enjoymaidenhead.com
J Definitely the most fun activity ever invented, jumping on a trampoline. Rush in High Wycombe will put the bounce back in your step and has plenty of fun new activities including: Battle Beams, Total Wipeout, Walking Sticks, Dodgeball, Foam Pit and the Stuntman Airbag.Visit rushuk.com for their full schedule and prices. K Can you jump like a Kangaroo? Create your own silly sports day, make up as many events as you like: bean bag balancing E on the head; set up a backwards FRE obstacle course and a firm favourite: How many silly walks can you do in a minute?
L
Take a trip to London and visit the Science Museum, it’s free to get in and there is plenty to do, see the E FRE website for details on what’s exhibiting at the moment: sciencemuseum.org.uk/visitmuseum/plan_y our_visit
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N Life’s a beach especially when you visit The Maidenhead Beach at Norden Farm in Maidenhead. The popular beach is back for the whole summer and free to play on! Grand opening on Tuesday 26 July – come in Hawaiian fancy dress for your chance to win! Make sandcastles, pose on the surfboard, meet the flamencos in the Gallery and enjoy a beach side Café Bar lunch. With daily weekday craft sessions (£5) and storytelling (£2). The Beach is open Tuesdays to Sundays 10am – 4pm. They’re just off the M4, A404 and A4 with free parking. Find out more online nordenfarm.org or by calling 01628 788997. O Get ready for some serious summer fun at Odds Farm Park. Starting with their
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A to Z of Summer Fun
P
Make your own parachutes with tissue paper, thread and two E paperclips. Make different sizes to E FR see which one floats the best.
Q
Celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday by exploring The Savill Garden in Windsor Great Park, one the
most beautiful royal gardens in the country. From the 28 May until the end of
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August this year, you will be able to discover the Secrets of a Royal Garden. There will be a host of regal activities to get involved in. These include a royal Golden Crown trail for families, which will lead you on a tour of The Savill Garden’s royal heritage, taking in many stories along the way including trees planted by Her Majesty the Queen and plants gifted to the Royal family from countries around the world.You will also see where flowers were grown for the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in 2011, to be used in the bouquet and to decorate Westminster Abbey. Royal themed activities for children will keep the little ones entertained at the weekend, including arts and crafts and face painting and join us for Royal Punch and Judy shows in August. Visits to the Garden can be topped off with a delightful Afternoon Tea in The Savill Building. Please search online for ‘Secrets of a Royal Garden’ for further information. windsorgreatpark.co.uk.
R Discover Roald Dahl’s Buckinghamshire, a new exhibition at Bucks County Museum that explores Roald Dahl’s connections to the county and its inspiration for many of his famous stories. Celebrating the 100th anniversary of Roald Dahl’s birth, the exhibition opens
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on 2 July. Also at Bucks County Museum is the fabulous Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery, where hands-on exhibits are based on Roald Dahl’s much-loved children’s stories – you can investigate mini-beasts inside the Giant Peach, explore sound with the BFG, crawl along Fantastic Mr Fox’s tunnel, freeze your own shadow, magnify fleas and appear on television.
S Celebrate Shakespeare’s 300th anniversary at the William Shakespeare festival at Windsor castle this summer, with some fantastic evening performances that will knock your socks off! Look out for further details of both spectacular indoor and outdoor adaptations via windsor.gov.uk/whats-on T Take a trip to Cliveden. This summer Cliveden’s colour-filled gardens are complemented by oodles of activities
Photo: Clare Kendal
daily Wild West Show that has plenty of cowboy-themed activities (line-dancing, singing and much more) from 21 July to 12 August, the kids will love it! Following on from this the Circus will be coming to town (13 August to 4 September). Performing four shows daily with interactive workshops following after, kids and adults alike will marvel at the seemingly magical entertainment. For more information, call 01628 520188 or visit oddsfarm.co.uk. See page 22 to win a family ticket.
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
A to Z of Summer Fun designed especially with little ones in mind. Solve the maze, discover the natural play trail, build a den in the woods or just relax with a picnic next to the storybookthemed play area. We’ve also heard a rumour of a new digger-filled builders’ yard designed for under-10s right next door… The National Trust’s popular Wild Wednesdays are back too providing an outdoor adventure each Wednesday in the local school holidays (£2, plus usual admission). Also don’t miss their outdoor theatre season too featuring Roald Dahl and Shakespearian comedies! nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden
U Understand Science at the Look Out Discovery Centre. There are more than 90 hands-on science and discovery activities. They have NEW exhibits to challenge and excite. Can you make the rings dance
across the wheel on the Turntable exhibit? Or build a ship using the Kapla bricks? Send pieces of fabric shooting up into the air with Blown Up! Build a dam in the stream or build a house to hide in with the massive foam building bricks. They will be training mini heroes in their Superhero Science Show this summer. Their fun and interactive show runs until 4 September at weekends and in holidays at 11am, Noon, 2pm, and 3.15pm. The Look Out is set in 1,000 hectares of Swinley Forest with three fantastic outdoor adventure play areas to suit all ages and a care and gift shop. bracknellforest.gov.uk/thelookoutdiscoverycentre
V Grow your own vegetables! Don’t be disheartened when looking at seed packets, yes the sowing season has passed you by, but you can always buy plugs of baby plants. Try putting tomato plants in a hanging basket, it will reduce pests and the potential for blight. Top tip: Ask your little ones to use cotton buds to pollinate the flowers (if there is a lack of insects and faeries around). W Discover Wildlife at Cotswold Wildlife Park and explore their park and gardens. August is Rhino Month as they had two baby Rhinos, Ian and John, born last year.
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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Plus, enjoy Cotswold Falconry Flying Displays every weekend in August. There will also be daily talks to raise awareness of conservation projects. For more events, visit: cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk/whatson/events/
X marks the spot. Create your own treasure hunt using a map or try a spot of orienteering with some clever E rhyming clues. Check out this FRE website for ideas: treasure-huntideas.co.uk
Y Have a Yes day- a day when the parents have to say ‘yes’ to any request from their children, although there should be ground rules e.g. budget allowing, no putting risk to others or causing harm, no permanent hair dye, etc. Hopefully your little monsters will surprise you…in a good way!
Z Try a Zip Wire experience at your local park for free or if you fancy something a bit different try an exhilarating plunge through the trees at Go Ape! Black Park or Bracknell Forest. If you prefer your feet nearer to the ground, Black Park also offers Segway Rally experiences, which are a class apart from the usual Segway fare (£35 for 60 minutes of outrageous fun! Min age 10 years). goape.co.uk/days-out/black-park-country-park
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Move over Jenson…
Racing Car Simulation at its best
Claire Winter and her daughter went to try out the Motion Simulation Room in Slough, which offers a unique racing car simulator experience. Now my daughter and I may not have done much rally car driving in real life or in simulators but we loved the idea of trying out the latest racing car simulation technology. The Motion Simulation Room is on the edge of the Slough Industrial Estate, which is a really a handy location to get to. The motion simulation room is totally different from any existing simulation centre, they have six professional full motion TL3 simulators. Each one generates up to 2G of acceleration and offering lifelike movement across 3 axis of heave, pitch and roll. The pods also have the world’s first 200` degree wrap around spherical screen, which delivers visuals from a 6 million pixel image. The driving experience is amazingly realistic. We were met by Tim who set us up – we were trying out seventies style racing cars and once we had watched the safety video we
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“It really was rally car racing simulation with a difference.”
were sat in our pods and given headsets. Tim talked us through the gears (we had to count them because of the era!) and getting on to the track. My thirteen year-old was at a disadvantage as she hasn’t played any car racing computer games or driven like me, but Tim was really patient getting her back on the racing track when she lost control of her car! The TL3 simulators are also used by top race teams and feature professional race pedals and controls, and full force-back steering. The simulation is incredibly real. We felt every bump (and there were a few!) and we felt completely exhilarated after a 15minute session! It really was rally car racing simulation with a difference. Drivers can experience the world’s most famous race circuits and choose racing cars from different eras, and there are a variety of sessions available to suit driver experience and ability. You can race on your own, or against friends.
My thirteen-year-old loved it and said she would love to take her ‘squad to give it a go’, which is high praise indeed! It would be a great day out for anyone who likes a challenge and something different to do. It would also be a great present for older children (you have to be over 1.5m tall), Dads and anyone who likes to drive fast!
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
The Motion Simulation Room offers individuals, groups and corporate guests, a unique opportunity to get behind the wheel of a range of racing cars, in fully professional simulators’ that are guaranteed to deliver the ultimate thrill. Prices start from as little as £15 for practise sessions and the minimum height requirement to safely operate the simulators is 150cm/4’11”. For more information or to book a session, visit www.motionsimulationroom.com, find it on Facebook/MotionSimulationRoom or call 01753 532461. SPECIAL FAMILIES OFFER To get 10% off any booking during July and August please quote PFA10* *Terms and Conditions apply
THE GOLDEN BALL REVIEW
Eating Out
Claire Winter took her family to try out dinner at the Golden Ball Pub in Pinkeys Green.
T
he Golden Ball pub is set in beautiful countryside just outside Maidenhead. It was taken over by Epic pubs last summer and prides itself on serving good food and drink from mainly British producers. We arrived on a sunny Saturday evening and lots of families were sitting outside enjoying a drink from their great selection of wines, beers and real ales. It’s great to have a local pub that can make a decent cocktail too. They also hold regular evening events and it’s half-price Prosecco on a Thursday, which will no doubt add to the alleged global shortage this summer! The pub has also been recently refurbished and has a lovely stylish interior with a great outside space that can be used during the warmer months. I’ve been lucky enough to attend some great networking events at the pub organised by the Maidenhead Business Girls but hadn’t yet sampled the food, so couldn’t wait to try out the menu. The staff were really friendly and attentive when we arrived. I had a vodka and elderflower tonic, which was delicious. I love trying different tonic waters and they had a great array to choose from. For starters, I ordered the Broad Bean Humus with Asparagus and my husband had the Heirloom Tomato Tart and whipped Goats cheese. The combination of the asparagus and humus worked well and the tart was delicious. The kids chose from the very child friendly menu, which includes steak and chips for a reasonable £8. My three chose garlic bread to start with and fish goujons, fries and peas. There wasn’t a veggie option but I am sure they could arrange a small size main course or a starter for a child’s main course. For my main I chose from the specials board and the Pan Fried Cornish Mullet,
Telephone: 01628 627 586
Her Majesty Potatoes, Samphire and treacle tart with cream, which was sticky Grapefruit Hollindaise. I was a bit and moist. I had espresso chocolate unsure about the grapefruit mousse, which was incredibly rich hollindaise idea but the tartness also very moreish. “The staff but The of the grapefruit worked well menu has loads of with the salty samphire and were really choice and I like the fact that it the potatoes (which were changes often. The pub has friendly and really nice atmosphere, as well purple, much to the kids’ delight) and of course the tasty as interesting, tasty food in attentive” decent portions. It is a great fried Mullet. My husband enjoyed his pub classic, fish and place to have a relaxed meal with chips. friends or the family. The kids had a homemade ice cream and chocolate Sundae with smarties, which was To find out more go to polished off pretty quickly. My husband had thegoldenballpub.com
JULY/AUGUST 2016
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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Competitions and Offers with WIN a family day out to Paultons Park and discover Lost Kingdom
R
WIN Tickets To Odds Farm Park! Roll Up, Roll Up! The Big Top returns to Odds Farm Park with two must-see Summer Shows and we have 3 Entry Tickets for 2 Adults and 2 Children to give away!
Families has teamed up with Paultons Park for your chance to win a fantastic day out this summer. New for 2016 is an amazing new Dinosaur Theme Park World, Lost Kingdom. Take a Jurassic jeep expedition at the Dino Tour Co., ride the Velociraptor boomerang coaster and soar high into the sky on The Flight of the Pterosaur – a new suspended family coaster!
Yee-Hah! Join in with plenty of cowboythemed fun at Odds Farm Park’s Wild West Shows! And then, daily from 13 August to 4 September 2016, marvel at the skills of the magical Circus Performers!
Lost Kingdom also features life-like animatronic dinosaurs, Jurassic themed family rides, the Little Explorers’ Play Park and an amazing opportunity to come face to face with ‘living’, walking Dinosaurs at Alive – Dinosaur Encounter! Paultons Park offers over 60 great rides and attractions including big rides, small rides, play areas and a collection of exotic birds and animals all set within 140 acres of the beautiful New Forest National Park. Paultons is of course home of Peppa Pig World, with 7 amazing Peppathemed rides! For more info, go to www.paultonspark.co.uk
Elsewhere at Odds Farm Park this Summer Holiday, expect more exciting activities – jam packed with balancing beams and bridges, wobble boards, slides and more, children will love the NEW Outdoor Adventure Play Area. Visit oddsfarm.co.uk to find out more. To win an Entry Ticket to Odds Farm Park for 2 Adults and 2 Children, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to listings@familiestveast.co.uk What shows can you see at Odds Farm Park this Summer? a. Wild West Shows & Circus b. Pirate Shows & Circus c. Superheroes Shows & Circus Closing date August 1
To win a family pass to Paultons Park, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to: listings@familiestveast.co.uk What is the name of the new boomerang coaster? a. Triceratops b.Velociraptor c. Stegosaurus
Terms and Conditions 1. Only one entrant from same e-mail address or household will be accepted. 2. Under -16s must obtain parental consent before entering. 3. Entries must be received by the closing date and proof of sending cannot be taken as proof of receipt. 4. All decisions of Families Magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into. 5. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize. 6. Only the winners’ details will be supplied to the Promoter of the competition. 7. Families Magazine is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition. 8. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions. 9. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and contacted via the email address provided by the entrant. If the promoter does not obtain a response from the winner within 21 days, we reserve the right to select another winner at random. 10.Automated/bulk entries and entries from third parties will be disqualified. 11. This competition is restricted to UK residents only.
Closing date August 1 Prize is a family pass for 4 people over 1m in height. Tickets are valid during any open day until 31st May 2017 but are not valid for the Christmas attraction (please see website for details).
you Do total e H? hav BOS H S I SQU
Fun party games with meaning
• Kids Art Clubs • Pottery Painting • Adult Art Classes & Workshops • Corporate Meetings & Events • Parties
Call Pete on 07721 422554 or 01628 821145
e:squishbosh@basilandcrew.co.uk • www.basilandcrew.co.uk
22
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
JULY/AUGUST 2016
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
What’s On
Compiled by Siobhan Newman Event times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.
Battersea at Old Windsor Fun Day on July 2
Big Camp fun at Cliveden on July 8 and other dates Pic John Millar
Jay Foreman is at Henley Festival Family Sunday on July 10
JULY
essential estateoffice@walthamplace.com, 01628 825517. www.walthamplace.com Saturdays in July & August FAMILY SATURDAYS Windsor Castle, Windsor, SL4 1NJ. Art and craft workshops, artefacts and dress up. From 11am-4pm, Moat Room. Standard admission prices (free with Advantage card). The theme for July is Banquets and Balls followed by Fair Ladies and Noble Knights in August. www.royalcollection.org.uk BE ARTY CLUB Upton House School, 115 St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3DF. 01753 862610. Join the ‘Be Arty’ club for an art & illustration. 5 to 8 year olds are introduced to numerous techniques and mediums. Termtime, Saturdays, 10.30-11.30am. Busy Buttons Creative Summer Camps for 3 to 14 year olds to design, create, animate and express themselves run in the holidays. www.busybuttons.org Wednesday to Sundays until July 24 AS YOU LIKE IT – AN OPEN-AIR CIRCUS The Savill Garden, Wick Lane, Englefield Green, TW20 0UU. 01753 860222. Run away with the circus in this immersive production of Shakespeare’s much loved comedy. Adults: £35. Concessions: £25 (0 to 16 years). Tickets include parking, garden entrance and immersive theatre performance. www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk
Sunday July 3 WINDSOR CHAMPIONSHIP DOG SHOW Home Park, Datchet Road, Windsor, SL4 6HX. Often described as the 'Summer Crufts'.Visitors are welcomed to Windsor Dog Show. www.windsordogshow.org.uk Daily from July 1 NEW LEGOLAND 4D MOVIE Legoland Windsor Resort, Winkfield Road, Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 4AY. 0871 2222 001. A whole new plot mixed with amazing 4D effects. www.legoland.co.uk Daily until September 4 THE SUPERHERO SCIENCE SHOW The Look Out Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, RG12 7QW. 01344 354400. Are you a superhero? Come and find out in this science show where we look at super strengths, invisibility, mind reading and have fun with science experiments. Show times: 11am, 12 noon, 2pm and 3.15pm, subject to minimum numbers. Shows run at weekends and Bracknell school holidays. £1.95 per person plus entrance price. www.bracknellforest.gov.uk/be Saturday July 2 MAIDENHEAD NIGHT MARKET, High Street. Berkshire’s answer to Las Ramblas, with stalls, food and live entertainment. www.enjoymaidenhead.com Saturday July 2 BATTERSEA AT OLD WINDSOR FUN DAY Priest Hill, Old Windsor, SL4 2JN. 01784 432929. Family fun day with dog competitions and games. Entry £2 adults, £1 children aged 3+. www.battersea.org.uk
Every weekend until August 31 SECRETS OF A ROYAL GARDEN, The Savill Garden, Windsor Great Park, TW20 0UJ. 01784 485400. Celebrate Her Majesty’s 90th birthday by following the Golden Crown family trail and discover the secrets of the gardens’ Royal history. Plus enjoy fun activities including Royal Punch and Judy shows, face painting and arts & crafts. Free entry for children. Trail £2.50. www.windsorgreatpark.co.uk From Friday 1 July GRANDMA FLEW SPITFIRES Maidenhead Heritage Centre, 18 Park Street, SL6 1SL. 01628 780555. General admission to “The Story of Maidenhead” and temporary exhibitions in the Sammes Gallery – Free. Grandma Flew Spitfires exhibition: Children under 11 FREE, ages 11-16 £2, adults £3.50, concessions £3. Spitfire Simulator £7.50 per 15 mins. Tickets valid for 12 months with Gift Aid. Check for opening times. www.maidenheadheritage.org.uk Friday July 1 MOTH NIGHT Waltham Place, Church Hill, White Waltham, SL6 3JH. Take part in our yearly moth survey. Moth experts will be on hand to identify those moths caught and share interesting facts about each species. 9.30pm – 11.45pm. £5 per person. Booking
Be Amazed...The Look Out
Discovery Centre Science and discovery fun over 90 activities. Bring this advert to get one free child with one full paying adult*. Valid until 4/9/16 *Terms and conditions apply.
The Superhero Science Show e
14 May – 4 September 2016 Shows run at weekends and school holidays. Age 3+ Open 10am - 5pm every day
The Look Out Discovery Centre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW
Tel: 01344 354400
www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/be
www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery
Telephone: 01628 627 586
JULY/AUGUST 2016
Families SW
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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What’s On
Please email listings@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.
Toys the show runs at Norden Farm, Maidenhead, July 13-16
Dolly Parton tribute will headline at the Maidenhead Festival on July 23 and 24
King Arthur comes to the Firestation, Windsor, on July 24
Saturday July 2 FULMER DAY VILLAGE FETE Fulmer Village, Windmill Road, Fulmer, SL3 6HD. Food, arts & crafts, music, stalls, mini fun fair plus, grand prix circuit, magicians & more! 1.30 to 5pm. Free entry. www.facebook.com/fulmerfete Saturday July 2 and Sunday 3 THE MUSEUM’S 40TH BIRTHDAY Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117. Join us to celebrate 40 years since the Museum was incorporated in 1976. Dress up in 70s clothes and try out traditional 70s games – can you complete the Rubik's cube? Activities all weekend. Standard admission prices. www.coam.org.uk Saturday July 2 and Sunday 3 A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM Ascot Racecourse, High Street, Ascot, SL5 7JX. 0844 346 3000. The critically acclaimed Chapterhouse Theatre Company commemorates Shakespeare’s 400th anniversary with his best-loved romantic comedy. Sat at 7pm, Sun at 3pm. www.chapterhouse.org Sunday July 3 ETON COLLEGE NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Eton College, Slough Road, SL4 6DW. 01753 671000. Berkshire’s only dedicated natural history museum and now houses over 16,000 specimens, donated from the nineteenth century onwards. This family friendly museum is open every Sunday from 2.30pm-5pm and at other times by arrangement with the curator. Admission is free, donations optional. www.etonnhm.com Tuesday July 5 AFTER SCHOOL CRAFT SESSION Binfield Library, Benetfeld Road, RG42 4JZ. 01344 306663. After-school crafts session on Tuesdays in term time only from 3.30pm to 4.30pm. Wednesday July 6 TOY LIBRARY Highview, 6 North Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1PL. The toy sharing initiative invites all accompanied children each Wednesday from 10am – 12noon and on the first Sunday of each month from 3-5pm. www3.rbwm.gov.uk Thursday July 7 SUMMERTIME Taplow Court, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0ER. Enjoy a glorious evening of song at Taplow Court, performed by Voices Anon. Picnicking in the grounds from 5pm for concert-goers. Free entry to the concert and no need to book, with a collection being taken on the night in aid of the nearby Thames Valley Adventure Playground. www.tvap.co.uk Friday July 8 FAMILY CAMPING Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA. An overnight camp in the woods with mothtrapping, bug hunting, toasting marshmallows and
storytelling. 4pm-11.30am. Adult £27, child £17. Booking essential: 0844 249 1895. Camping dates: July 8, 9, 15, 16. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Friday July 8 FAMILY ACTIVITY BREAKS Longridge, Quarry Wood Road, Marlow, SL7 1RE. 01628 483252. Take part in activities, camp overnight and try more watery fun the next day. Children must be aged 8 or over. See website for prices and other sports sessions. www.longridge.org.uk Saturday July 9 KIDS CINEMA CLUB: GOOSEBUMPS Firestation Arts Centre, The Old Court, St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3BL. 01753 866865. A teenager teams up with the daughter of young adult horror author R. L. Stine after the writer's imaginary demons are set free. Adult £5, child £2.50. 1pm. www.firestationartscentre.com Saturday July 9 and Sunday July 10 WATCH WIMBLEDON – live on the big screen in Maidenhead Town Centre, SL6 1PY. See www.enjoymaidenhead.com for details. Every second Sunday SHABBYTIQUE MEETS EAT ON THE HIGH STREET in High Street, Maidenhead SL6 1PY. Eat on the Street offers delicious food stalls from around the world, Man vs Food competitions, chilli eating, street entertainers, face painters and more than 30 stalls selling vintage, crafts, handmade, antiques, upcycled, boho, retro and quirkies. 11am-4pm. www.enjoymaidenhead.com Sunday July 10 HENLEY FESTIVAL FAMILY SUNDAY The River & Rowing Museum. Not just for grown ups - enjoy Disgusting Songs for Revolting Children, Kapow - 2Faced Dance, beatboxing and more. 11.30am-3pm. Family ticket: £35 (valid for up to 5 people). Adult ticket: £10, child: £5. www.henley-festival.co.uk Sunday July 10 TEDDY BEAR'S PICNIC Black Park, Black Park Road, Slough. SL3 6DS. 01753 511060. Enjoy stories, fun and games in Black Park with your toddlers and their teddies. Bring your own picnic and your favourite cuddly toy. Booking Essential. 11am to 12. 30pm. £3 per child. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events Wednesday July 13 to Saturday 16 TOYS Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628 788997. A show created by your toys! Bring your own toy along and watch as they are brought to life in a big adventure! Suitable for ages 3+ years.Various show times, £10 (£8 under 16s), Family & Friends (4 people) £32. www.nordenfarm.org
Saturday July 16 and Sunday 17 CLASSIC VEHICLES SHOW Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117. An amazing range of classic vehicles. Activities all weekend. Standard admission prices. www.coam.org.uk Sunday July 17 STORYTELLING AT NORDEN FARM, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628 788997. Led by Julie Loison. Interactive storytelling in the magical story den, followed by a yummy Sunday lunch. Ideal for ages 4 to 7 years. www.nordenfarm.org Daily from Thursday July 21 to August 12 WILD WEST SHOWS AT THE FARM Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX. 01628 520 188.Yee-Hah! Join in with plenty of singing and dancing and cowboy-themed fun! With four shows daily, all the extra fun is included in entry! Plus all the usual Odds Farm fun with animals to meet, interactive experiences, outdoor fun and the giant playbarn. www.oddsfarm.co.uk July 21 to September 1 ACTIVITY DAY CAMPS Odds Farm Park, As above. Fun holiday childcare with changing activity programme for ages 4-12yrs. Booking required. Mon – Fri 8.30am to 5.30pm (8am to 6pm available) £47/day, £34/half day, Early/Late club £3.50 (88.30am, 5.30-6pm). Saturday 23 July to Sunday 4 September SUMMER WOODLAND WONDERS, Burnham Beeches, Lord Mayor’s Drive, Burnham SL2 3PS. 01753 647358. A summer trail, aimed at children up to 12. Pick up a leaflet from the Information Point and guide yourself along the route. Bring a pencil. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/BurnhamBeeches Saturday 23 July CREATURES OF THE NIGHT Burnham Beeches, as above. A two-hour walk to track down things that go bump, squeak and squawk in the night. Even if the wildlife is elusive, exploring their habitat in the dark should make this a memorable night. Remember to bring a torch. Booking required. Saturday July 23 and Sunday July 24 MAIDENHEAD FESTIVAL, Kidwells Park, Marlow Road, SL6 7DX. Free circus-themed family fun, music and more. Main stage, acoustic tent, stalls, plenty of food, funfair rides and a beach. Acts include Big Girls Don’t Cry playing Frankie Valli hits and a top Dolly Parton tribute act headlines on Saturday night with a spectacular fireworks display afterwards. www.maidenheadfestival.org.uk
Blossom Ballet
Want to work for Families?
For a FREE taster class or for further information please contact Lucy:
We are looking for online area managers to help run our website. Part-time home-based work opportunity.
07813084283 lucy@blossomballet.com www.blossomballet.com
No set-up costs involved and training will be given. Experience in sales, journalism, blogging or social media would be helpful.
Blossom Ballet
is about having lots of fun and making new friends.
Email your CV to
Classes throughout the week, including weekends, in Windsor, Bray and Maidenhead.
editor@familiestveast.co.uk
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
JULY/AUGUST 2016
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Compiled by Siobhan Newman Event times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.
The Maidenhead Beach at Norden Farm runs throughout August
Woodland Wonders at Burnham Beeches in August
Saturday July 23 and Sunday July 24 RAGGED VICTORIANS Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117. Meet authentic Victorian characters over the weekend – watch out for pickpockets! www.coam.org.uk Sunday July 24 CHARITY FAMILY FUN DAY Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow. SL7 1GJ. 01628 496800. Celebrate the end of the school year with live music, BBQ, bouncy castles, face painting, games and much more. Raising money for CLIC Sargent. Free admission. From 12pm. www.cpmarlow.co.uk Sunday July 24 KING ARTHUR AND THE INGLEWOOD Firestation Arts Centre, St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3BL. 01753 866865. To the court of King Arthur, in the Golden Age of Camelot comes a mysterious knight. Meeting in the enchanted forest, he demands justice for the loss of his lands. He sets the King the ultimate challenge, to uncover what it is that women most desire. Known for their modern take on traditional folk stories, Moon On A Stick bring us their unique fusion of puppetry and live action. For ages 5+, starts 3pm, family tickets available. www.firestationartscentre.com Monday July 25 FILM WALK Black Park, Black Park Road, Slough, SL3 6DS. See some of the locations from popular film and TV productions such as Harry Potter and James Bond. Booking essential. 2pm - 3.30pm. £5 adult, £3 child, £4 concs, £14 family (max 2 adults & 2 children) Call 01753 511060 or email: countryparks@buckscc.gov.uk www.buckscc.gov.uk/events Monday July 25 to Friday July 29 CIRCUS WEEK Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628 788997. Led by Albert and Friends. A week of incredible circus skills and performing. Learn to walk on stilts, ride a unicycle, walk the tightrope and perform on a trapeze! Suitable for ages 7 - 13 years. 10am - 4pm. Tickets £5. www.nordenfarm.org Monday July 25 and Tuesday July 26 WOODLAND WONDERS WILDLIFE WALK Burnham Beeches, Lord Mayor’s Drive, Burnham SL2 3PS. 01753 647358. Head out on a 2 hour, Ranger-led adventure through the Beeches with games, bug hunts and craft activities aimed at children aged 4-12. Suggested donation £2 per child. Booking required. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/BurnhamBeeches
Tuesday July 26 - Sunday September 4 ALOHA! Norden Farm, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF. 01628 788997. The Hawaiian Elvis themed beach is back – all summer long. Relax at a beachside café table while the little ones play in the sand. Join in craft or story telling sessions in the specially designed story den or try some indoor surfing courtesy of green screen technology! Family films screened throughout the holidays. Open Tuesdays to Sundays, 10am - 4pm. www.nordenfarm.org Wednesday July 27 SHIRE HORSE AND CART RIDE Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, Berkshire, RG7 1SP. 0118 9326 444. Join us at Wellington Country Park for Shire horse and cart Ride day! Also runs on August 31. www.wellington-country-park.co.uk Thursday July 28 to Saturday 30 LUNA CINEMA Ascot Racecourse, High Street, Ascot, Berkshire, SL5 7JX. 0844 346 3000. Popcorn, picnic rugs and Pimms with movie classics under the stars in the intimate setting of the Old Paddock. Thursday: Jaws, Friday: The Force Awakens, Saturday: Pretty Woman. Gates 7.30, screening 9pm. Adults £15, children (3-15) £10. www.ascot.co.uk/luna-cinema Thursday July 28 to Saturday 30 MAIDENHEAD BEER AND CIDER FESTIVAL Desborough College, Shoppenhangers Road, Maidenhead SL6 2QB. 20+ ciders, diverse beers, great food choice, live music, quiet bar. Opens at 12.30pm on Thursday. www.maidenheadbeerfest.camra.org.uk Saturday July 30 and Sunday 31 HIGHWAYMEN Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117. Take your life in your hands travelling to, and through the 18th Century. www.coam.org.uk Sunday July 31 ARTISAN FOOD AND CRAFT MARKET Black Park, Black Park Road, Slough, SL3 6DS. Outdoor market, arts, crafts, food, homewares & more. 10am to 4pm www.buckscc.gov.uk/events Sunday July 31 COLNE VALLEY FESTIVAL Denham Country Park, Denham Court Drive, Denham, Uxbridge, UB9 5PG. Enjoy Live local bands. Fairground, river dipping, crafts, ferret racing, face painting, circus skills, model airplanes, local clubs & organisations and a beer tent! Free Entry, some attractions may charge, parking £2.50. Well behaved dogs welcome. 11am to 4pm.
What’s On
A Midsummer Night's Dream at Windsor Castle for six nights in August
AUGUST Throughout August BRAZILIAN OLYMPICS BBQS. Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 1GJ, 01628 496 800. With the Summer Olympic Games in Rio putting Brazil in the spotlight, we’ll be cranking up the heat with our Brazilian themed BBQs during August and September. Monday August 1 to Friday 5 FAIRIES & ELVES TRAIL Black Park, Black Park Road, Slough, SL3 6DS. 01753 511060. Pick up a map from the Visitor Information Point and follow the self-led trail to find where the fairies and elves are hiding - answer the quiz sheet and earn yourself a little treat! (max 2 treats per map). £3 per map. 10am to 3pm daily. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events Tuesday August 2 to Saturday August 27 VISIT FROGMORE HOUSE Windsor Great Park, Windsor, SL4 2HT. Open daily Tue, Wed, Thur and Sat, 10am to 5pm. A typical visit lasts 1 hour 15 minutes. Ticket price: £9.80 per person. www.royalcollection.org.uk Tuesday August 2 TERRIFIC TUESDAY Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117. A day of themed family crafts and activities. Also runs August 9, 16 and 23, 30 www.coam.org.uk Tuesday August 2 WOODLAND WONDERS, Burnham Beeches, Lord Mayor’s Drive, Burnham SL2 3PS. 01753 647358. Nature-based fun and craft activities aimed at children aged 4-12. 11am - 1pm. Suggested donation £2. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/BurnhamBeeches Wednesday August 3 WILD WEDNESDAY NEVERLAND ADVENTURES Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 01628 605069. The author of Peter Pan JM Barrie was a regular guest at Cliveden and has left some of the story's clues around the estate...Dare you challenge the dreaded Captain Hook? Gather your strength Lost Boys and Girls and head to the Storybook Play Den. Are you a Tinkerbell, a Tootles or a Tiger Lily? Come dressed in your best Neverland costume ready to make your own wooden memento. This is a drop-in session and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Ideal for children aged 4-11. £2 per child. 11am-3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden
For Little Kickers classes in Maidenhead, Bourne End, Henley & Marlow. Call 01628 526 584 or email bevans@littlekickers.co.uk. For Little Kickers classes at Ascot, Slough, Windsor and Stoke Poges call 07412 166 686 or email sleslie@littlekickers.co.uk
Approved football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years. Local classes at a venue near you. Safe, friendly and fun!
Call for Birthday Party entertainment information
www.littlekickers.co.uk
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
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What’s On
26
Please email listings@familiestveast.co.uk with any events.
Travel with Danny Champion of the World when the play comes to Cliveden in August
Big ears and big shoes needed for Circus Spectacular at Odds Farm from August 13
Vicious Vikings invade Chiltern Open Air Museum on August 20 and 21
Saturday August 6 MAIDENHEAD NIGHT MARKET, High Street. Berkshire’s answer to Las Ramblas, with stalls, food and live entertainment. www.enjoymaidenhead.com Saturday August 6 and Sunday 7 SHARPE’S RIFLES Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117. Be transported back in time to the Napoleonic era and see Sharpe’s rifles in action. www.coam.org.uk Saturday August 6 and Sunday 7 WELLINGTONS PIRATE ADVENTURE WEEKEND Wellington Country Park, Odiham Road, Riseley, RG7 1SP. 0118 9326 444. www.wellington-country-park.co.uk Sunday August 7 LOCATION WALK Burnham Beeches, Lord Mayor’s Drive, Burnham SL2 3PS. Join us on a 2 hour guided tour of one of the most popular film locations in the country to see where Harry Potter, Robin Hood and James Bond were filmed. Booking required. 01753 647358. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/BurnhamBeeches Wednesday August 10 COMMUNITY GAMES 2016 Black Park, Black Park Road, Slough, SL3 6DS. Get into the Olympic spirit and compete in the Black Park Community Games! Think classic sports day with egg and spoon races, welly wanging, three-legged races and more! From 10am. £2 per race or 3 for £5 www.buckscc.gov.uk/events Wednesday August 10 WILD WEDNESDAY PETER PAN AND THE PIRATES Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 01628 605069. Join Peter Pan and the pirates in walking the plank and flying around Cliveden's estate. Keep an eye out for the tepees, craft your own sword or bow and take part in an epic battle in the fight for Neverland. Ideal for children aged 4-11. £2 per child. 11am-3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Thursday August 11 BIG TREE CLIMBING Cliveden. As above. Explore a whole new side of the woodlands under the watchful eye of our tree climbing experts, the Great Big Tree Climbing Company. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For ages 6+. Booking essential. Admission applies. £18.50. Several time slots available. Also on August 12, 25 and 26. Thursday August 11 BAT WALK AND TALK Waltham Place, Church Hill, White Waltham, SL6 3JH. 01628 825517. Explore the woods at twilight using bat detectors to locate and identify the different species. 7.30pm-10.30pm. £5 per person. Booking essential. www.walthamplace.com Friday August 12 to September 4 CIRCUS SPECTACULAR Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX. 01628 520 188. See magical Circus Performers followed by Circus Skills workshops. Four shows daily. Included in entry. www.oddsfarm.co.uk Saturday August 13 and Sunday 14 MEDIEVAL PAGEANTRY Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117. Meet knights, ladies and soldiers, learn about life in a noble household in Medieval England and cheer for your favourite knight in the tournament. www.coam.org.uk
Sunday August 14 SHABBYTIQUE AND EAT ON THE STREET in High Street, Maidenhead, SL6 1PY. Chilli eating, street entertainers, face painters and more than 30 stalls selling vintage, crafts, handmade, upcycled, boho, retro and quirkies. Kids’ yard and visiting Zumba, Jazzersise, chiro-practitioner, healthy eating and nutrition experts. 11am-4pm. Monday August 15 to Friday 19 FILM TRAIL Black Park, Black Park Road, Slough, SL3 6DS. 01753 511060. Self-led trail to see some of the locations from popular film and TV productions across Black Park. Pick up a trail for £3 at the Black Park Visitor Information Point. Wednesday August 17 WILD WEDNESDAY – BUGTASTIC Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA 01628 605069 Follow our creepy crawly trail to find the best bug hot spots in Cliveden. Come and make your own feeler deely boppers and become a Cliveden critter. This is a drop in session and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Ideal for children aged 4-11. £2 per child. 11am-3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Thursday August 18 to Saturday 27 A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, Moat Garden, Windsor Castle, Datchet Road, Windsor. Open for six nights only by special permission of Her Majesty The Queen, Watch Your Head will bring to life the magic and intrigue of this popular Shakespeare play, created especially for families to enjoy. Bring a rug or cushions to sit on, and watch the performance unfold around you. Performances take place over six evenings: August 18-20 and 25-27. 6.30-8pm. Adult: £20 Family Ticket (2 adults and 3 children): £70. www.royalcollection.org.uk Friday August 19 to Sunday 21 MAIDENHEAD AT THE MOVIES 2016 Kidwells Park, Maidenhead. Free outdoor cinema. 4 films showing each day as well as fun fair rides and food stalls. www.enjoymaidenhead.com Saturday August 20 and Sunday 21 VICIOUS VIKINGS Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117.Visit a living history Viking encampment with vicious battle displays. www.coam.org.uk Wednesday August 24 BUGS AND BEASTS Black Park, Black Park Road, Slough, SL3 6DS. 01753 511060. Hunt for creepy crawlies in Black Park using a mini-beast kit with the help of the Country Park Rangers and learn about the bugs and beasts you find! 2pm-3pm. Meet at the Visitor Information Point. £5 per family. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events Wednesday August 24 WILD WEDNESDAY – TREASURE HUNT Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 01628 605069. Pick up your box and hunt for natural treasure around Cliveden. This is a drop in session and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Ideal for children aged 4-11. £2 per child. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden/ Thursday August 25 OUTDOOR THEATRE DANNY CHAMPION OF THE WORLD, Cliveden, as above. Presented by Illyria. Nine year old Danny lives with his father in an old gypsy caravan. When Danny
learns his father’s darkest secret –a love of pheasant poaching, they hatch a scheme together! Adult £14, child £10 (3-16 years) This is an outdoor event. Please be prepared for variable weather conditions. Seating is not provided for this event.You are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy. Thursday 2-3.30pm and 6-7.30pm. Book at 0844 249 1895. Thursday August 25 TREE WALK Waltham Place, Church Hill, White Waltham, Berkshire, SL6 3JH. This walk will highlight some of the less well known uses of timber our Waltham Place trees offer. 11am-1pm. £5 per person. Booking essential. estateoffice@walthamplace.com, 01628 825517 www.walthamplace.com Saturday August 27 and Sunday 28 EGHAM ROYAL SHOW Mrs Caddey's Field, Whitehall Lane, Egham, TW20 9NW. The 158th Show will take place on Sat 10am - 6pm & Sun 10am - 5.30pm. Children 14 and under go FREE when accompanied by a ticket holding adult. Highlights include the sheepdog display, the Golden Eagle Archers, falconry display and the ever popular vintage cars. Saturday August 27 OUTDOOR THEATRE - A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM Cliveden, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. Come and commemorate 400 years of Shakespeare at Cliveden. Experience a magical production of A Midsummer Night's Dream in the enchanting Water Garden.You might even see some of the mischievous fairies! Performed by Illyria. Bring your own chairs or picnic rugs, and picnic to enjoy before the show. 6pm for picnics. Performance starts at 7pm. Adult £16.50, child (aged 5 to 16) £10. Book online or call 0844 249 1895. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Sunday August 28 and Monday 29 TUDOR TIMES Chiltern Open Air Museum Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB. 01494 871117. Discover what it was like to live in Tudor times and gather with the Militia to oppose the Armada. www.coam.org.uk Sunday August 28 AUGUST ARTISAN FOOD AND CRAFT MARKET Black Park, Black Park Road, Slough, SL3 6DS. Outdoor market, arts, crafts, food, homewares & more. 10am to 4pm. www.buckscc.gov.uk/events Monday August 29 THE LITTLEWICK SHOW, Bottle Meadow, Warren Row Road, Knowl Hill, RG10 9YE. Support the show at its new venue and enjoy displays of horticultural, farming, rural and other craft skills, amusements, sideshows, loads of entertainment, sales and stalls. www.littlewickshow.co.uk Wednesday August 31 WILD WEDNESDAY MUDDY KITCHEN Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 01628 605069. Make a mud pie, have a mud dinner party and finish with mud pudding! Use your mud map to find out about mud tattoos and other muddy facts! This is a drop in session ideal for children aged 4-11. £2 per child. 11am3pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Friday September 2 WOLF HOWL NIGHT UK Wolf Conservation Trust, Butlers Farm, Beenham, Reading, RG7 5NT. 0118 971 3330. Find out why wolves howl! The evening will start with a presentation on wolf communication and then you will go outside to practise your howl and hear the wolves respond. There is no wolf contact or walk at this event. £10 per person. www.ukwct.org.uk Saturday September 3 OUTDOOR THEATRE MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Cliveden, Taplow, SL6 0JA. 0844 249 1895. Enjoy Shakespearean comedy at its best in the tranquillity of Cliveden's Water Garden. Laugh along with our hero and heroine as they jest, mock and finally fall in love. Performed by The Lord Chamberlain's Men. Bring chairs or picnic rugs, and a picnic to enjoy before the show. 6pm for picnics. Performance starts at 7pm. Adult £16.50, child £10. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden
JULY/AUGUST 2016
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
FAMILIES Thames Valley East
CHILDHOOD ILLNESS – WHEN TO ASK FOR HELP by Claire Street from Child Matters
In the first two years it seems that children get ill constantly: random fevers, multiple colds and stomach bugs. As soon as they recover from one thing, they catch another. Knowing common symptoms, and when your child needs to see a doctor, will help make any childhood illness more manageable. Many common childhood conditions that can cause fevers include: Coughs & Colds,Viral infections, Teething, Ear Infections, Chicken Pox, Immunisations, Croup,Vomiting and Diarrhoea. If your child does not have any of the symptoms listed below in the box, then you can manage your child at home. IF A CHILD WHO HAS ANY ILLNESS DEVELOPS ONE OR MORE OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS, CALL 999 IMMEDIATELY: ● Becomes UNRESPONSIVE, blue or is having a FIT ● BREATHING rapidly/struggling for breath/long pauses between each breath ● Very LETHARGIC /difficult to rouse/not orientated to their environment ● DEHYDRATION no urine (or wet nappy) for more than 12 hours, sunken eyes (or, if he's a baby, a sunken fontanel, or soft spot on his head) or seems extremely lethargic, or their mouth might be dry and no tears appear when crying. ● SKIN MOTTLED, bluish or extremely pale. A rash develops that does not fade when you roll a glass over it. ● Abnormally COLD to touch REMEMBER: Sepsis can develop under the cover of any infection such as viral or bacterial infections, a tummy bug, a chest infection or even a sore throat. If you think your child might be seriously ill, call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department. Get medical advice as soon as possible if you're concerned about your child, don't wait until a more serious symptom develops.
Keeping your child comfortable at home: ● Check your child regularly day and night ● Do not under or over dress your child; light underwear is enough if they have a fever. ● Ensure they are drinking regularly, sips of clear fluid or frequent breast milk if breastfeeding. ● If your child is in pain or distress, or the fever continues to rise, then give advised dose of liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen. ● Other signs of fever may include, red cheeks, grumpiness, crying, sweating, shivering, tiredness When to Call the Doctor? Most childhood illnesses run their course without any big worries, but some symptoms warrant a consultation with your GP. ● Fever. In newborns, any elevated temperature warrants a visit. For infants 3 to 6 months old, phone if the fever is unmanageable, persistent or develops with no explanation.
Health ● Dehydration. It's normal for a sick child to have little interest in food and drink, however if this lasts two days or longer, check in with your doctor. ● If your child has been unwell for more than 5 days or if they are appearing to get worse not better. Need medical advice fast? Call 111 for non-emergency medical help, if you can’t get to the GP. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Calls are free from landlines and mobile phones. Like 111, your pharmacist can advise on most everyday ailments and illnesses. They can help you decide if you need a doctor, minor injury unit (MIU) or A&E. For common childhood illness advice see http://www.healthhelpnownhs.net/ a useful tool to help you identify the best options for your healthcare needs. Arrange a course, delivered by Paediatric professionals from Child Matters, for yourself, family and friends. Our courses cover common childhood illness and injuries. Knowledge builds confidence for all parents of babies and young children.
To find out more about the first aid courses that Child Matters run go to: www.child-matters.co.uk/ or email: contact@childmatters.info; Tel: 07788720612
In Case of Emergency Identification
Have you ever had that sinking feeling in a crowded public place that your child has wandered off?
Panic sets in because they have no ID on them and they don’t know your mobile number, especially when scared and upset? If YOU OR YOUR CHILD has an Allergy • On any medication • Or have any medical conditions They should never leave home without proper Identification! Orders can be placed ONLINE at www.iceid.co.uk or email Gila on info@iceid.co.uk
In Case of Emergency Identification
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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Cooking
FRUITY TREATS YOUR CHILD WILL LOVE By Sally J Hall Help them get their five a day with these fun snacks, ideal for the lunch box!
1. Fruity sticks
2. Snowy Strawberries
Great for a lunchbox treat, these colourful snacks will soon disappear!
This one is super easy and great to get the kids helping in the kitchen. Ideal for summer snacks, they can be kept in the freezer and brought out after a hot day at school.
You will need: ● 3 thin plastic straws ● Mixture of fruit such as grapes, strawberries, kiwi fruit, pineapple, banana, apple ● Lemon or lime juice How to make: 1. Cut the larger fruit into squares and squeeze some lime or lemon juice over them to prevent them from going brown. 2. Push the straws through the pieces of fruit one at a time – make sure you mix up the colours to make it look extra special. Note: Children who are under four should not be offered whole grapes because of the danger of choking.
You will need: ● 1 punnet strawberries ● 1 large pot Greek yoghurt How to make: 1.Wash the strawberries and trim the stalks and leaves off each one. 2. Put some of the Greek yoghurt in a bowl and roll each strawberry in the yoghurt. Lay them on a flat baking tray. 3.When you have covered all the fruit with the yoghurt, place the tray in the freezer on an empty shelf and leave to freeze overnight.You can then take them off the tray and store them in freezer bags until needed.
3. Fruity Summer Rolls Usually filled with tofu, herbs and noodles, they are a great snack and if you can find the rice paper wrappers in a local oriental food supplier, you can not only make those but also these amazing fruity rolls, perfect for lunch boxes. You will need: ● Rice paper wrappers ● Mixture of summer fruit; watermelon, strawberries, apple, pear, peach, mango, kiwi fruit etc. ● Mint leaves (optional) ● Lime juice
How to make: 1. Take the fruit you are going to use, wash and peel if necessary, then cut into very small, cubes. 2. Drizzle with lime juice over the fruit to prevent browning and stir well to combine the fruits together. 3.Add a few small or torn mint leaves if your child likes them. 4. Place a small pile of the fruit at the centre of a rice paper wrapper. Roll one side in, then the two ends and finally roll it up. 5. Lay it on the open side to stop it falling open. 6. If you like you can tie it with a chive or a small piece of string but this should be taken off before your child eats it. 7. Place a few rolls in a small lunch box for your child’s packed lunch. Sally J. Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).
Thames Valley East
editor@familiestveast.co.uk or call
01628 672586
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FAMILIES Thames Valley East
JULY/AUGUST 2016
E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Bumps ‘n’ Babes
SIX STEPS TO HELP YOU ESTABLISH A ROUTINE WITH YOUR NEWBORN BABY
Melanie Valecha is a Pregnancy and Newborn Baby Specialist Nurse, Active Birth Teacher and Holistic Therapist, specialising in working with new parents, babies and young children. Here she gives Families her top tips on establishing a routine in the early days:
T
here are many schools of thought regarding routine and scheduling on a daily basis. Establishing a routine is valuable after the first few months of life and creates security and predictability for you and your baby. How that looks is personal and must fit in with your family routines and activities. How you create that routine is up to you but it is advisable to maintain a diary before starting to help you tune into your baby's rhythm. The following 6 points are a foundation of principles to bear in mind when considering routine. 1.Timing Enjoy your newborn baby. Remember they are making a transition from womb to world and want to be near you, held and cuddled. Often referred to as the 4th trimester, this is a time to get to know your baby.Your newborn baby will get adequate feeds and sleep in a 24 hour period but frequently has his day and night topsy-turvy. This is a time to tune into your baby. 2. Listening to your baby Tuning into your baby will be easier when you learn to read his cues and understand his engagement and disengagement signals in relation to his states of alertness and responsiveness to your interaction. Tuning in develops over time and is the absolute foundation to developing routine with feeding, bedtime and naps.
3. Developing a rhythm – setting and tuning into baby’s body clock We all have a rhythm and a clock that is set according to the time we rise and in relation to mealtimes and bedtimes.Your baby’s biological clock starts to develop a rhythm from 8 weeks to 3 months. Tune into feeding. Tune into your babies feeding cues and states of alertness to help guide you in developing the routine. Naps are so important and have a big effect on quality and quantity of night time sleeping. 4. Creating a bedtime routine This will happen over time and in response to the cues previously mentioned. Bedtime can be indicated by lower lighting, associated with a series of sleep cues e.g. a bath, a massage and even a story or music. 5. Consistency is key Every baby is different. Every family is different. Regardless of the routine created consistency in developing and maintaining a routine is absolutely essential. It is the consistency and predictability of the routine that actually instils a sense of security and trust for your baby.
6.Things change Just when you feel like you have a handle on your routine – something changes! Your baby experiences a developmental leap, teething, sickness or you have a holiday. Again consistency is key and tuning into cues. Often tweaks to naps, bedtime or feeding can put you and your baby back on track. Don’t lose heart and if you need help or support – get it. Host a pop up baby clinic/sleep workshop in your home with your friends and their babies. If you are struggling to establish a routine with sleep or feeding please contact me at Big Steps Little Feet. As a mother of 4 children and a Pregnancy and Baby Specialist I can offer you support at home or through the variety of workshops facilitated regularly. Melanie Valecha (RGN, FHT, SCPHN Bsc Hons) Pregnancy and Baby Specialist, Big Steps Little Feet. www.bigstepslittlefeet.co.uk, 07841 657141
Eva Winter Osteopath BSc (Hons), DPO • Providing safe and effective hands-on treatment for adults, children and babies • Vitality Osteopaths, 1st Floor 36 West Street, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 2NB
For more information T: 01494 482028 M: 07776 448700 E: evaosteopathy@gmail.com W: evawinter.co.uk Registered with the General Osteopathic Council, British Osteopathic Association and Alumni for Paediatric Osteopathy
Telephone: 01628 627 586
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She Means Business Looking for work that would fit around looking after her daughter, Donna Hembury became a childminder, and after 12 years has found it to be the perfect career to fit in with family life. Who you are and where do you live? My name is Donna Hembury, and I live in the river area of Maidenhead.
BOOK NOW for advertising in our Sept/Oct 2016 issue Due out September 2 email: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Why did you set up the business/or why have you changed career? After having my daughter I decided to child mind so that I could be with her, and as she is an only child it gave her a chance to have other children to play with everyday, whilst doing this for her, I was also able to earn an income. What did you use to do? Prior to child minding I was Senior Sales Manager for an American computer company. What inspired you to set up the business? Initially it was for the benefit of my daughter, but I soon realised the opportunities available to Registered Childminders in the Royal Borough. During my 12 years I have studied and now have a BA in Children's Learning and Development, Early Years Teacher Status, and I am now Chairperson of the Maidenhead and Windsor Childminding Group. What are your plans for the future? To work with the group to raise the profile of registered Childminders, highlighting
their experience as trained early years educators that offer flexible, affordable childcare in a home environment. The children are taken on outings, visits to the library, parks, toddler groups and benefit from being in a small mixed age group. We also plan to raise awareness that registered Childminders are inspected by Ofsted against the same criteria as Nurseries and also offer government funded places for 2, 3 and 4 year olds. Lastly, what would be your advice to other business women? Anything is possible, you can work hard and achieve new personal heights whilst being there for your family. maidenheadandwindsorchildmindinggroup. org.uk
• We will teach your child to swim • Pre-school children will participate in Forest School activities • We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum • We are competitively priced and accept all childcare vouchers • We have free on-site parking • We offer a free family complimentary health club membership for all full-time children
Nuffield Health Day Nursery - Stoke Poges
Wexham Street, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire, SL3 6NB
Tel: 01753 663996
Email: SouthBucks.Nursery@nuffieldhealth.com
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E-mail: editor@FamiliesTVEast.co.uk
Event manager, Jo Bates, realised that the ingenious idea that had stopped her own daughter sucking her thumb could be the basis of a business helping other families with the same problem. Who you are and where do you live? I am Jo Bates and I live in Wendover with my husband and three daughters. I have been working in the fun world of event management for over 25 years and currently I am a Director of one of London’s most creative event agencies. I work part-time travelling into London a couple of days a week. Why you set up the business/or why have you changed career? My third daughter was a dummy sucker and when we took it away she started sucking her thumb, which was a surprise. I couldn’t find a positive solution in the UK that could help her; she didn’t know that she was doing it most of the time so she needed a reminder. I have always enjoyed sewing and can be quite creative so I made a few fabric thumb guards and in three weeks she had completely stopped sucking her thumb! What did you use to do? I really enjoy working in events and have been in sales in one form or other for most of my career. I also studied marketing as mature student at college, which was a great string to my bow. Recently the company I was working for relocated from Berkhamsted to London, which wasn’t ideal for me with my family. Two and a half years ago a Director, who I had been working with for 18 years, decided to leave and set up an agency. A colleague and I left with him, and we now have 18 employees. What inspired you to set up the business? I thought if it was that difficult for me to find a UK thumb sucking solution then other parents must be struggling too. I was lucky enough to have some friends in marketing who have children, and they agreed and shared my excitement. After selling on Facebook for a few months I decided to take the plunge and invest in a website, that was the best decision I made. I then registered the design in the UK and the name Thumbsie became a registered trademark. The business then grew and it was so rewarding to hear from happy parents and the difference I had made to their families lives. I have put some of these reviews onto the website so that other parents can be comforted that Thumbsie thumb guards can help their Telephone: 01628 627 586
children too. It’s great fun choosing the fabrics, I listen to my children quite a lot to see what they like. I used my marketing skills and my wiliness to learn new things to really build the business up. I now have many dentists throughout the UK recommending me to their thumb-sucking patients. I had lots of parents ask me if I did anything for finger suckers so I developed a finger guard too. The fabric guards are such a simple idea but they really help children to stop sucking.
read relevant trade press all the time to try and expand my knowledge and look for subjects to write about. Know what you want to achieve with your business, its great to have your own business that you are passionate about. Try to keep a balance, try to select times when you are working on the business and stick to it, so that the children don’t resent you working all the time. Above all - never stop learning!
Classifieds
thumbsie.co.uk
What are your plans for the future? I would like to think that one day I can stop getting on the train to London and follow this new passion. I have found working for myself very rewarding and so exciting to learn new things. It will also mean that I can be at home for my children more. It’s always difficult to get a good work/life balance and I think I can get it if I follow this dream. I’ve still so much to learn about marketing and social media so will continue to seek out new opportunities for Thumbsie. Lastly, what would be your advice to other business women? If you have a good idea then go with it. It’s hard at first to get things off the ground and you will probably feel totally engulfed with it and may not see any return for a while. Understand your target market - I
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