Families Oxfordshire July August issue.

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Issue 92 July/August 2019 familiesonline.co.uk

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FAMILY

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Contents & Competitions

Dear Reader,

The most eagerly awaited time of year for children is almost here - the long summer holidays. We can all remember the excitement of the last day of term. Whilst this might be the children’s favourite time of year, it can often fill parents with dread as they try to juggle work, childcare and entertaining the children. We have lots in this issue to help you plan childcare and days out in our ‘What’s On’ pages. If you do find yourself out and about more, no doubt you will be eating out too, and so we have included some useful advice on how to keep little ones at the table and avoid a meltdown during dinner (page 15). Have a lovely summer whatever your plans. @familiesCambMag

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“To raise ough to leave comfortable en ve done your u ha you, means yo t ours to keep, no job. They are w to but to teach ho n.” ow soar on their

What's in this issue?

4. News & Views

A 6-MONTH SUPPLY OF BOOKS DELIVERED TO YOUR HOME WITH READING CHEST! Reading Chest, the book rental service for children learning to read, makes reading at home fun for children and easy for parents, by providing access to good quality books at just the right level of ability.

Members receive regular deliveries of books, similar to those used in schools, as well as reward charts, stickers, book bags and certificates. Give your child the chance to receive irresistible deliveries of exciting books, by entering the competition on the Families Oxfordshire Magazine Facebook page: @familieseastoxfordshiremag For more information and reading advice visit www.readingchest.co.uk

6. Baby News 8. What’s On 11. Big Days Out 13. Eating Out with Children 14. Clubs and Classes

22,000 copies of Families Oxfordshire available through schools, nurseries, hospitals, clubs and classes, selected shops and restaurants. If you would like copies for your establishment please let us know.

EDITOR: Lisa Exell 01945 861336 editor@familiesoxfordshire.co.uk PUBLISHING ASSISTANT: Becky Lawrence admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SALES: Jean Jean@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk SOCIAL MEDIA: Rebecca admin@familiescambridgeshire.co.uk DESIGN: Caroline Thompson-Heap info@cheekymonkeydesigns.net

DISTRIBUTERS WANTED Do you have a couple of spare days every other month, your own car, and want to earn some extra cash?

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Families Oxfordshire is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Oxfordshire are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Oxfordshire. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Oxfordshire its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. familiesonline.co.uk

Families Oxfordshire 3

News & views

BELFRY'S GREAT DEALS ‘SPA-N' THE WHOLE SUMMER

Guests at the DoubleTree by Hilton Oxford Belfry hotel can take the stress out of every-day life with a new ‘Summer Soother’ deal that offers spa packages from just £57 pp.

The four-star hotel, managed by Almarose Hotels, has launched spa day and residential deals.

The spa day deal runs until 31 August and includes full body exfoliation and back massage, full use of the health club facilities, a light lunch, 20% off any additional pre-booked spa treatments, and 20% off all food and beverages.

Guests also receive an invigorating body reviver for free - worth £27!

The overnight deal, from just £105pp, for either a one or two-night stay, comes with spa treatments, buffetstyle breakfast and evening meal worth up to £28 per guest. The one-night break includes a 50-minute spa ritual or two 25-minute mini express treatments. The two-night stay offers the 50-minute spa ritual and a 25-minute mini express treatment, or guests can enjoy three 25-minute mini treatments instead.

Book these fantastic deals by calling 0330 107 1599 and quoting ‘Summer Soother’ for the spa day deal or ‘Summer Spa’ for the overnight break. Deals available at all Almarose Hotels’ spas across country. www.qhotels.co.uk/our-spaswww.theoxfordbelfry.co.uk

SURESTART PROGRAMME GOOD FOR HEALTH

A recent Institute for Fiscal Studies research report has found that Sure Start children’s centres delivered major health benefits for youngsters living in the most deprived areas. The report shows that the number of young people taken to hospital was reduced in those areas, in young children that effect was marked for infection-related cases and for older children, minor injuries.

The programme, first introduced in 1999 targeted highly disadvantaged neighbourhoods. At its peak in 2009–10, Sure Start accounted for £1.8 billion of public spending (in 2018–19 prices), but in the decade since, funding for it has fallen by two-thirds to £600 million, 2017–18.

According to the report, the reduction in hospitalisations saves the NHS approximately £5 million, about 0.4% of average annual spending on Sure Start. But the types of hospitalisations often also have lifetime costs both for the individual and the public purse; including these savings, the financial benefits of Sure Start’s effects on hospitalisations amount to 6% of its budget.

The report raises the question: given the substantial benefits for children’s health found, is the current level of cuts to Sure Start’s budget appropriate? www.ifs.org.uk

HELP AVAILABLE WHEN CHOOSING A FAMILY DOG

If you are considering adding a dog to your family, this is an important decision which is best not made on a whim.

Generally, children and dogs form great bonds and friendships and dogs can offer the opportunity for children to learn great life skills such as responsibility and compassion.

But all dogs are individuals. The breed of the dog is perhaps the single most important factor you can take into account when deciding what dog is right for your family.

To help families with this decision a Dog Breeder Decider tool has been created by pet food manufacturer Webbox. The tool matches a dog breed with a family by analysing a family’s lifestyle and preferences against the personality traits, behaviours and requirements of all dog breeds. More info: www.webbox.co.uk/dog-breed-decider

Space Chase - 2019 Summer Reading Challenge The Summer Reading Challenge encourages children aged 4 to 11 to read six library books during the long summer holiday.

Children's reading can decline during the summer holidays if they don't have regular access to books or encouragement to read for pleasure.

4 Families Oxfordshire

This year the challenge will focus on the theme ‘Space Chase’ - an out-of-this-world adventure inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing.

Children are challenged to read at least six library books over the school holidays and collect rewards, such as stickers, on their way

Get Hands On At The Festival Of Archaeology

The Festival of Archaeology is a fortnight long festival which runs from 13 to 28 July 2019 and will provide opportunities for families to discover archaeology in their local area.

Events will be held across the UK at sites of archaeological and historical interest. You will be able to watch experts at work or get ‘hands-on’ by experiencing the excitement of an archaeology dig, including having a go at geophysical and topographic surveys, or taking part in actual excavations.

The festival is co-ordinated by the Council for British Archaeology and aims to showcase the very best of archaeology for everyone.

To find events in your area visit www. festival.archaeologyuk.org

Going to Nursery Improves Behaviour

Children who go to nursery are better behaved and have fewer emotional problems than those cared for by family or a childminder, a new study has found.

Those who attended nursery, crèche or day care centre staffed by professionals for a year or more found it easier to make friends and had better social skills than youngsters who stayed at home.

Researchers believe more stimulating play, more time spent reading, following rules from a young age and getting praise mean children thrive in a nursery setting.

The study by the Sorbonne University in France looked at the factors involved in childhood health and development using a survey of 1,428 children. It tracked their emotional development from birth up to age 8.

Previous research has suggested early childcare can boost a child’s language and thinking skills, and may improve their academic performance. More info: www.jech.bmj.com

to receiving their challenge certificate and medal.

The Challenge will launch in libraries on Saturday 13 July 2019.

For competitions, book recommendations and special online badges and rewards, visit www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

News & views

FREE Childcare to Attend Smear Tests Mothers across the UK are being offered an hour’s free childcare so they can attend a smear test.

Childcare.co.uk, which claims to be the largest platform for parents and childcare providers in the UK has launched the initiative to encourage more women to attend a smear test to determine whether they are at risk of cervical cancer, which in 99.8% of cases is preventable with early treatment Every year in the UK, around 3,000 women will be diagnosed with cervical cancer. In the UK, women are invited by the NHS to get a cervical screening from the age of 25 to 64. However, figures show the take-up of testing of women is at a 20-year low.

While the test usually takes just five minutes, a free hour of childcare is being offered to allow for waiting times and travel.

Mothers can take up this offerby visiting: www.childcare.co.uk/news/free-childcare-for-smear-tests

2019 RSPCA Young Photographer Awards now open for entries

The prestigious annual photography competition offers young people up to the age of 18 the chance to win amazing prizes - in return for getting snap happy with pets, wildlife and other animals.

The judging panel - led by wildlife expert and RSPCA Vice President Chris Packham expects a record-breaking number of entries this year, with categories designed to attract a wide range of young people.

Whether the photo is taken on a mobile device or camera, there’s a category for every age, skill and type of equipment. Three different age-groups (under 12s, 12-15 and 16-18) also mean that all youngsters are in with a chance.

New for 2019 is a special Instagram category; that online competition will be judged by the public, and will run for just two weeks in July.

The closing date for other categories is 12 noon, Friday 16 August 2019. Entrants can submit their images online at: rspca.org.uk/ypa

Cub Scouts celebrate arrival of new eco badge with giant artwork

Over 50 Cub Scouts came together recently for a special event to launch the new edition of their Environmental Conservation Activity badge.

Now sponsored by The Salvation Army’s Recycle with Michael initiative - which works with children to divert thousands of tonnes of unwanted clothing and shoes away from landfill - the badge actively encourages Cub Scouts to get involved in environmental conservation in their daily lives.

At the badge’s launch event, the Cubs worked alongside professional artists, Lloyd Warbey (Disney’s Art Attack) and Suzanne Lynas, to create a gigantic replica of their newly designed badge utilising only recycled materials.

The giant piece of art spanned nearly 2,500 sq ft, took over 5 hours to complete, and was made using clothes, shoes, and bedding which was generously donated by the attending Cubs and representatives from Scout Head Quarters. The clothes were then shipped off to the Salvation Army’s sorting office where they will either be recycled or distributed to the charity’s numerous shops across the UK ready for ‘second chance’ purchase.

All primary school age children can get involved with the Recycle with Michael initiative. To find out more visit www.recyclewithmichael.co.uk

Wonder woods at Stonor and Summer Adventures!

This year Stonor Park has a series of fun activities for kids including a special nature pack to help you explore the park.

Join Robin hood, one of his merry men or maid Marian and her ladies of the court. Visit for a day of themed dress-upfun and Stonor Parkwill arrange the activities. With so much to do: from bush craft, good old-fashioned games, quizzes, den building, tracking and navigation skills to a fabulous adventure play park offering hours of entertainment, swinging, jumping, sliding and splashing.

The visitor centre, which is close by, offers full facilities including baby changing and the pit stop has gifts, snacks and drinks. To find out more please visit www.stonor.com familiesonline.co.uk

National Literacy Trust launches Small Talk project to help parents boost their child’s language skills at home The National Literacy Trust has launched Small Talk, a new project to help parents develop the skills and confidence they need to boost their child’s language skills at home, before they start school.

The project comes as latest figures from the Government show that 200,000 five-year-olds started primary school last year without the language, communication and literacy skills they need to learn and flourish. This gap can negatively impact their chances of success at school and in life.

In an effort to close this gap, Small Talk will support the language skills of 30,000 children under the age of five by helping parents turn the activities they are already doing with their child into new opportunities to fill their child’s world with words every day.

To help parents embed chat, play and read activities into their daily routines, Small Talk features simple and engaging videos, advice and information.

For more information, please visit: small-talk.org.uk

Families Oxfordshire 5

Baby News Talk, Sing and Play to Build Brains

Almost two thirds of parents are unaware that back and forth interaction with their child from birth can help their babies’ social, emotional and cognitive development.

A survey of more than 2,000 parents and expectant parents by the NSPCC found that 62% were unaware that moments playing, singing or telling stories can be brain-building ones.

NSPCC research has found some parents

struggle with ideas about how to interact with their young child beyond eye contact and cuddling, especially in the early months when

they do not receive obvious feedback from their babies.

In response, the charity is launching a campaign, ‘Look, Say, Sing, Play,’ to encourage new parents to use everyday scenarios to have more two-way interactions with their babies.

Going to the shops, having a bath, going to bed – whatever you and your baby are doing can be turned into a back-and-forth.

Parents can sign up to get weekly brain building tips that are fun and age appropriate.

More info: www.nspcc.org.uk

CQC SURVEY SHOWS IMPROVEMENTS IN MATERNITY SERVICES AT LOCAL HOSPITALS The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has published its National Maternity Survey and results show that Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has improved its patient experiences since last year.

Women throughout England who gave birth in February 2018 were asked various questions about their experiences in hospital, including the first time they saw a clinician or midwife, care during labour and birth, and the care provided at home in the weeks following the arrival of their baby.

Some highlights for the services include: • the Trust scored in the top 20 percent of trusts nationally on nine questions, including choices of where to give birth, the duration of the hospital stay after having a baby, and information on physical recovery and

emotional changes after birth • the survey showed that there was an improvement in care provided during labour and birth compared with other trusts • the average service score was 80.7 percent - slightly higher than in 2017 • the survey showed improvements in choice of locations for antenatal check-ups, advice and support in early labour, and the speed in responding to requests for assistance in hospital after giving birth Sam Foster, Chief Nurse at the Trust, said: “We’re pleased to see that we performed well in this survey, and that the women who took part largely had positive experiences in our

hospitals with high quality care and treatment during their pregnancy and birth.

“This is testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, and their efforts to give compassionate care to pregnant women and new mothers.

“While we’re glad of the positives, the survey also highlights where we can do better and we always strive to provide the best care possible. This survey, along with further patient and family feedback and our staff survey, will help us develop an action plan to improve services for women, their babies, and their families.”

Near Reading • 01491 683522 • registrar@oratory.co.uk • oratory.co.uk

Baby News

Heat + Sleep As the weather heats up, Paediatric Sleep Consultant, Lucy Wolfe tells us how to help your child keep cool this Summer We all have trouble sleeping well with the heat and although we shouldn’t complain, it can certainly have an impact on your baby’s sleep. Below is a list of suggestions and considerations to ensure that you keep your child cool in the heat.

Children will sleep much better with a room temperature between 16 - 20 degrees Celsius. When it is very hot outside, you will need to take extra measures to regulate the bedroom temperature.

1. Dress your child appropriately to avoid over-heating, strip down to nappy and vest if necessary and consider using no vest but a super light weight sleeping bag, such as a light sleeping bag or a cotton pillow case, safely folded down for younger children.

2. Remove any unnecessary bedding from the cot, to allow air to circulate freely; remove padding, bumpers and also waterproof sheets if you are using them. A cotton sheet along with the mattress is adequate bedding.

3. Aim to keep the room cool during the day by ensuring that you open windows throughout your living accommodation to allow for a through-breeze.

4. Ensure that you pull down room darkening shades and/or curtains early in the day to prevent the sun heating up the room.

5. Consider using a fan in the bedroom before bedtime, but make sure that it is out of reach when your baby is going to sleep. It may be helpful to place a bottle of frozen water in front of the fan to prevent re-circulating warm air around the room, 6. If the room is super hot, hanging wet/damp sheets or towels at the window or over chairs will help to cool the space down as the water evaporates.

KEEP LITTLE ONES COOL THIS SUMMER WITH SNUGGLEBOO

SnuggleBoo Summer Sleeping Bags and Sleepsuits from BabyBoo can help little ones keep cool and comfortable on balmy nights.

Designed in-house, the Summer SnuggleBoo Sleeping Bags and Sleepsuits provide a sense of safety and all-round comfort, which can ultimately encourage a longer, more restful night’s sleep.

The gorgeous garments are available in a range of sizes. The Snuggleboo Sleeping bags in sizes 0 to 3 and 3 to 6 years old, and the Snuggleboo Sleepsuits in sizes 6 to 12 months, 1 to 2 and 2 to 4 years old. The Snuggleboo Sleeping Bags and Sleepsuits are created from 100% organic cotton muslin and are 0.5 tog- the perfect tog for the warmer months.

Both feature a smooth, zip fastening, and come in cute Jungle Animals, Moon and Stars and Whales designs. BabyBoo uses GOTS & Oeko-Tex certified cotton which is lightweight and breathable to ensure the softest and most comfortable sleeping experience for your little one.

So, no more 3am crying because baby has kicked off their blanket and is cold, or because little feet are stuck in cot bars. You can take the Sleeping Bags and Sleepsuits on holiday too. www.snuggleboo.co.uk. familiesonline.co.uk

7. Have a cool bath close to bedtime to help regulate the body temperature ahead of sleep time.

8. Be careful about sleeping your child on the go. Prams and buggies can become hot and airless rapidly. Try to avoid allowing baby to sleep in the car also. The temperatures inside a parked car can rise very quickly, even with the windows open, so transfer your sleeping baby from the car whenever possible.

9. Make sure that your child is well hydrated during the day.

10. Check your baby regularly to see if he or she is too hot. Look for sweating or feel the baby’s tummy –hands and feet will usually be cooler, which is normal. If your baby is hot, remove clothes as you feel appropriate.

11. Enjoy the beautiful weather!

Lucy Wolfe, CGSC, MAPSC, is a paediatric sleep consultant, creator of “Sleep Through by Lucy Wolfe” a natural body and bed sleep spray and relaxing rub, and mum of four young children. She runs a private sleep consulting practice where she provides knowledge, expertise and valuable support to families across the country.

See www.sleepmatters.ie

How Big is our Baby?

When a new baby is on the way, siblings-to-be have lots of feelings and plenty of questions. But whether they’re impatient, curious or a little worried, this friendly and reassuring guide explains each step of the pregnancy journey and helps little ones feel involved and excited. With a month-by-month approach that compares the size of the growing baby to something familiar to the young reader, such as a speck of sand at the seaside or an egg, readers also find out about how Baby is developing, from when the heart might first beat to when they’ll be able to feel it kick. The book also includes information about how life might change once Baby arrives, and how exciting it will be to have a new baby brother or sister. £12.99 Families Oxfordshire 7

W hat’s Onto

CotsWild Explorers Animals in Danger Activity Trail WHERE: Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

places Things to do, be had go and fun to ages in for kids of all

Oxfordshire

WHEN: July & August

Learn all about endangered animals at the Cotswold Wildlife Park with this trail for 6-11 year olds. Available from the gift shop. 10% proceeds go to wildlife conservation. £2.50 plus usual admission www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Birds of Prey Demonstrations

WHERE: Cotswold Wildlife Park&

Lost in the Library

WHERE: Cornerstone Arts, Didcot WHEN: 7 July: 16.00

Featuring performances from Youth Theatre, Street Dance and Circus School; join Alice and her friends as they try to escape from library land. £5 www.cornerstone-arts.org

Gardens WHEN: Weekends from 27 July From owls to eagles, enjoy exciting weekend flight demonstrations, which take place at 1 pm and 3.30 pm on the lawns in front of the Manor house.

Adult £16; Child £10.50; 0-2 FREE www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk

Natural Play at Greys Court

WHEN: July & August

Start the summer holidays with outdoor fun and get stuck into nature with the brand-new play area for all the family.

Usual admission www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ greys-court 8 Families Oxfordshire

WHEN: 16 – 18 August

Tabby sets off to search the streets for his long-lost friend, Fred with whom he once sang to the delight of crowds.

Adult £14; Child £10 01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Family Archaeology Day

WHERE: Stonor Park WHEN: July & August

Fabulous adventure play park that offers hours of entertainment, swinging, jumping, sliding and splashing.

With special nature packs, themed dress up fun and craft activities.

Adult £6.50; Child £5.50 www.stonor.com

WHERE:

Xanadu-Giffords Circus WHERE: Stonor Park WHEN: 25-29 July

Hippies, hipsters, rock stars, musicians, wild women and global nomads with Shamanic horses gather to play, sing, dance, protest and perform. From £20 www.giffordscircus.com

Wallingford Museum WHEN: 27 July: 11.00-16.00 Get ‘hands-on’ with pot-washing and identifying artefacts. Find out about metal detectorists and fossils; bring in your own finds.

Make a pot for fun!

Adult £5; Child FREE www.wallingfordmuseum.org.uk

Pick Your Own

WHERE: New Theatre, Oxford

Retelling the Biblical story of Joseph, his eleven brothers and the coat of many colours, this magical musical is full of unforgettable songs including Any Dream Will Do. From £13 www.atgtickets.com

WHERE: Oxford Playhouse

Wonder Woods

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat WHEN: 16 - 20 July

TABBY McTAT

Code Breaker Trail

WHERE: Banbury Museum

WHEN: 22 July – 1 September

Find the clues and crack the code to work out the riddle! Explore the history of Banbury with the fun trail around the museum. Best for 4-10-year-olds. £1 per child www.banburymuseum.org

WHERE: Rectory Farm WHEN: July – August

With Strawberries, Raspberries, Gooseberries and other fruits and vegetables until the end of October. Free bouncy castle, sandpit and hay stack. Tractor Shack open Tuesday-Saturday for snacks. www.rectoryfarmpyo.co.uk

THE THREE LITTLE PIGS WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 13 July: 11.00

& 14.00 A brand-new version of the classic story of the three little pigs set in Paris. A grumpy old wolf is a chef who wants some pigs’ tails for his soup. 3-7yrs. £8 01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Inside

WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 20 July

“What was is it like in mummy’s tummy?” An immersive journey from conception to birth to share with your little one. Check venue for further details. £8 01865 305305 www.oxfordplayhouse.com familiesonline.co.uk

Families What’s on Summer Family Craft

WHERE: Oxford Botanic Garden WHEN: Wednesdays in August

WONDERLAND A wander through the world of Alice WHERE: The Oxfordshire Museum, Woodstock WHEN: July & August

Join the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, play croquet with flamingos and escape the Queen of Hearts. Discover the inspiration behind Lewis Carroll’s fantastical tale. www.oxfordshire.gov.uk

Summer Fun – Roman Holiday

Secrets and Spies

WHEN: 31 July – 29 August:

WHERE: Museum of Natural

Buscot and Coleshill Estates, Near Faringdon WHEN: 6 August: 14.00-16.00 Become a spy for the afternoon with kid’s activities. Find out about Coleshill’s secret army.

Booking essential.

Child £3 (adults free) 0344 249 1895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ the-buscot-and-coleshill-estates

WHEN: 3 August: 9.00-10.00

Teddy Bears’ Picnic

WHERE: Ashmolean Museum

14.00-16.00 Wednesdays and Thursdays, make some holiday memories and find out about ancient Roman feasts and myths with crafts and storytelling. Drop-in. www.ashmolean.org

Autism-Friendly Opening History

Explore the collections and enjoy specimen handling. Café will be open. More information will be emailed to attendees to help with preparation before your visit.

Free, but must book email: education@oum.ox.ac. ukwww.oum.ox.ac.uk

Rhino Month

WHERE: Cotswold Wildlife Park

WHERE: The

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay

Environmental Education Centre WHEN: 15 August Take your Teddy bear to meet wild friends in the woods; find out how the animals live outside and join the picnic with a story.

For 18mths- 4yrs.

Pre-book. £7 www.bbowt.org.uk

WHEN: 1 - 31 August:

WHERE: White Horse Hill,

Uffington WHEN: 25 & 26 August: 10.00-16.00 Join for the annual tradition of re-chalking this ancient horse.

01793 762209 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

War Horse

WHERE: New Theatre. Oxford

WHEN: 22 August -7 September

At the outbreak of World War One, Albert’s beloved horse is sold and shipped to France. He’s soon caught up in enemy fire, and fate takes him on an extraordinary journey. From £13 www.atgtickets.com

Family Open Afternoons WHERE: Soldiers of Oxfordshire

Museum WHEN: Wednesdays in August Just drop in between 2pm and 4pm. Each open afternoon includes a make and take craft activity with a different theme. £2 per child www.sofo.org.uk

My Wild Story

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay

Environmental Education Centre WHEN: 27 August: 10.00-15.00 Everything has a story to tell.

Explore those hiding on the reserve and discover a wild story of your own! For children 4-11 years. Pre-book. £5 per child www.bbowt.org.uk sceec@bbowt.org.uk

MAIZE MAZE

WHERE: Millets Farm Centre

WHEN: 17 July – 3 September

With bouncy castle, trampolines, ride on tractors, pedal go-karts, crazy golf, sand pits, construction area, toddler zone and garden games. £7 www.milletsfarmcentre.com

Henley Country Craft Show WHERE: Stonor Park

WHEN: 23-26 August: 10.00-17.00

Explore markets filled with handmade jewellery, homewares, clothing and more – enjoy a wide selection of food and drink, and relax in the beautiful landscape to live music.

Adult £10; Child FREE www.stonor.com

Board Game Science

WHERE: Museum of Natural

History

WHEN:

Tuesdays in August: 14.00-16.00 Play family friendly sciencethemed board games together with University scientists. 5+.

Suitable for all. Drop-in. www.oumnh.ox.ac.uk familiesonline.co.uk

White Horse Chalking

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10.00-18.00 Daily talks at 14.00 by Keepers, near the Rhino Paddock, about these magnificent animals such as threats posed and conservation work done to counter that. Adult £16; Child (316 years) £10.50 and 0-2 FREE www.cotswoldwildlifepark. co.uk

Enjoy seasonal crafts and discover wildflower meadows, ancient redwood trees and wildlife. Take along a picnic to enjoy in the great outdoors too. £2 donation and usual admission www.obga.ox.ac.uk

Oxford Skin Clinic | Skin Treatments for Problem and Ageing Skin

www.yourskinstory.co.uk email: seema@yourskinstory.co.uk

Call: 07545 756057 Families Oxfordshire 9

Fri 16 to Sun 18 August

Tabby McTat Based on the book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler

The purr-fect family treat, with original songs and a sprinkling of magic.

Tickets from £10

01865 305305

www.oxfordplayhouse.com

uMm eR SSuMmEr At AdVeNtUrEs WoNdEr FoR KiDs! dS WoO Henley-on-Thames, Oxon t: 01491 638 587

For details of opening times please visit www.stonor.com.

10% off entry when you book online in advance

BIG Days Out

Around Oxfordshire

The long, lazy days of summer demand BIG family fun and can accommodate longer journeying times to reach prized destinations.

They are also perfect for taking extra time to enjoy attractions closer to home. Check out our 5 picks of fabulous all-day adventures around Oxfordshire.

GO APE! Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire

Children from as young as three years old can take to the treetops on the Tree Top Adventure (must be at least 1m tall), where they can climb like monkeys, conquer wobbly crossings and fly down the zip wire. Thrill-seeking adults and children over 10 yrs (must be at least 1.4m tall) can try the Tree Top Challenge with its speed zips, free-fall swings and daring canopy-height crossings. With play area, cycle trails and acres of fresh-air-filled forest and views, there is something for all ages to enjoy.

From £18 goape.co.uk/days-out/south-east/Wendover

COTSWOLD COUNTRY PARK AND BEACH, Cirencester

BLETCHLEY PARK, Milton Keynes

Seventy-five years on, the full scale of Bletchley Park’s top-secret impact on D-Day is revealed in a new cinematic exhibition-D-Day: Interception, ntelligence, Invasion. Discover the vital importance of the ULTRA intelligence and its impact on one of the most important military operations of the twentiethcentury. The home of British codebreaking and a birthplace of modern information technology, Bletchley Park is of exceptional historic interest and offers fantastic fun for families, such as D Day Machines activities and top-secret mission packs. So much to explore and discover in picturesque surrounds.

Adults £20.00; under 12s FREE bletchleypark.org.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Home of the inflatable Wibit Aqua Venture, a total wipe-out style adventure with over 23 actionpacked obstacles to jump, splash, slide and laugh through, Cotswold Country Park is literally full of adventure for families. You can try kayaking or stand up paddle boarding, with tuition available for beginners.The Family Beach offers play activities from swan pedalos to mini-port electric boats, available tohire on the day, or you can take a dip in the swimming lagoon at the beach. For landlubbers, there are Pedal go karts, Bouncy castle and Electric scooters as well as all-new Vertigo Adventures and Aerial Venture! www. cotswoldcountryparkandbeach. com

THE THAMES PATH NATIONAL TRAIL Oxfordshire

iFLY INDOOR SKYDIVING, Milton Keynes

Get blown away at iFLY! Anyone aged 3 to 103 can experience the simulation of true freefall conditions in a vertical wind tunnel, floating on a smooth cushion of air. There’s no parachute, no jumping, and nothing attaching you to planet Earth. Perfect for thrill-seekers of all abilities, iFLY can offer experiences for those with limited mobility, but do call ahead to ensure specific needs can be accommodated. For flyers 8yrs+, using state-of-the-art Virtual Reality technology, you can even combine an Indoor Skydive with the thrill of a simulated ‘real’ skydive from a plane!

From £29.99 www.iflyworld.co.uk

Almost 70 miles of The Thames Path passes through Oxfordshire, from rural West Oxfordshire, through the busy city of Oxford via historic Wallingford to Henleyon-Thames, and can be followed in family-friendly chunks. Take a picnic and make a day of simply walking and being together or challenge the family to several days’ exploration! There are plenty of refreshment points along route. Though not always pushchair-friendly, swathes of the path are perfect for carrying babes in carriers. Check the Thames Trail website for useful information to help plan your excursion. FREE www.nationaltrail.co.uk/ thames-path/plan

Families Oxfordshire 11

Families Wellbeing

RAISING A SUPPORTED CHILD

by Pam Rowe

It can be hard to know what to do to ensure your child feels wellloved and supported. Here are my thoughts on helping your child to become the adult you know they can be:

Always Show Love

When I first had my son, I remember feeling overwhelmed by his total dependency on me. This innocent baby was reliant on me for his survival.

Our children rely on our love too and we need to show them we love them. Throughout my son’s life I told him I loved him all the time. Now he regularly says this to me and I think it is likely that he will be comfortable telling his wife or partner and children the same.

Lead by Example – Be the Person You Want Your Child to Be

If you want your child to be honest, show him how, by being honest yourself. If you lose your temper and lose control, think about what this teaches your child. Talk and read to your child about the importance of morals and values, being kind and caring, sharing, handling dilemmas and expressing their feelings but make sure you positively demonstrate these in your own behaviour.

Reinforce Positive Behaviour

Whatever you reward will be reinforced as important and will stick.

Decide what is important and reward it with words that make your children feel your praise.

Take Care of Yourself

Parents who are physically and emotionally healthy are more likely to raise happy children. Take care to eat and rest well, find time for relaxation and share your feelings with an appropriate adult in a place where you feel supported and loved.

Pam Rowe has 30 years’ experience working as a social worker and in Children’s Services. Her memoir, Clear Water, is out now and is available from Amazon.

12 Families Oxfordshire

s for

e Funded Plac

We have Funded Places that can be worth up to 100% of the fees at 13+. Radley is a top boys’ boarding school near Oxford.

To find out more about Funded Places join us at Radley on

9th November 2019 To book a place please call the number below or, follow the web link.

01235 543174

www.radley.org.uk/funded-places

RADLEY familiesonline.co.uk

EATING OUT WITH CHILDREN

by Tanith Carey with Dr Angharad Rudkin

For many parents, eating out with small children is a welcome break from the grind of cooking and cleaning up after meals. If it all goes well, that is. Here are our tips for eating with kids at each developmental level up to age 7.

Age 0 to 2 Years

Keep it Short If your little one is wriggly and only stays in his high chair for 20 minutes, don’t expect him to sit through a full meal at a restaurant. Start by just having one course. It takes time for a younger child to sit for more than hour as his meal-times at home are probably much shorter, Clear the Table Young children are curious about new objects. Ask waiting staff to take away any unnecessary sugar packets, glasses, or condiments that could be grabbed, spilled, or dropped. Look out for tablecloths, which can also get tugged and start spills. You child reacts to your stress levels so the more relaxed you are, the more relaxed your child will be.

Look for Family-Friendly Places Start with family-style eateries or cafés where there is already plenty of noise to drown out any din made by your own child. Places with kids’ menus will also be more relaxed and more likely to have welcoming waiting staff.

Once there, look for a quiet table in the corner – or a booth – so you won’t feel conspicuous if your child is excitable.

Age 2 to 3 Years

Don’t Resort to your Phone While it might keep your child quiet, handing over your phone will be sending the message that this is the default he can demand to keep him quiet. Your child will also start to associate eating out with screen time. Play games and chat rather than ignore him when he is quiet or wait for him to get bored. Games such as I-spy can help your child understand what’s going on around him.

Play Let’s Pretend First At this age, games like Let’s Pretend are critical in helping your child to learn about social behaviour. Help children learn how restaurants work and how everyone is expected to behave by playing games of “café” before you go.

Do some Prep Try eating out after nap times and off-peak when there are fewer other customers and the staff will have more time. Before you go, explain to your child that, just like at home, they will be expected to sit on familiesonline.co.uk

their chairs, copy grown-up manners and use their “inside”, not their "outside” voices.

Age 4 to 5 Years

Experiment with Flavours Stay safe by sticking to favourite foods, but invite your child to try the new tastes on your plate and make it part of the fun. Be patient. Your child now has around 30,000 taste buds, three times more than an adult, so their taste is acutely sensitive. Consequently adult foods can taste too intense or bitter.

Cutlery Practice At this age, most children are developing the muscle coordination to hold a knife in an adult pincer grip. Give your child the chance to eat in a grown-up way. At least if there are spills, you will get a break from cleaning them up!

Notice Good Behaviour Praise your child for what he does right, whether it’s eating with his mouth closed or using his knife and fork well, so he gets the message to keep doing it.

Age 6 to 7 Years

Let Them Ask for their Food Children of this age are now likely to be gaining the confidence to talk to adults they don’t know, so let your child order his food.

It’s a good way to practise social skills.

Model Politeness Take the opportunity to explain to your child how important it is to say “please” and “thank you” to waiting staff. Research has found that good manners helps children make friends.

Model Table Manners The best way for children to learn good table manners is to demonstrate them yourself. You are always your child’s most influential teacher.

A new book, What’s My Child Thinking: Practical Child Psychology for Modern Parents by Tanith Carey with Dr Angharad Rudkin looks at how young children think and uses those insights to work out the best ways to help keep them calm and happy in more than 100 everyday situations including having meals in cafés and restaurants.

The book is published by DK, price £16.99.

Families Oxfordshire 13

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Th - Drama, r e m m u S ort & music, sp ing ... someth n io t a c u d e one in for every

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Stagecoach Performing Arts Summer Workshops WHERE: Summertown, Abingdon,

Play in a Week: Beauty and the Beast WHERE: Oxford Playhouse WHEN: 19 August

Join Belle and the Beast, make new friends and discover new stories - the end of one chapter is always the beginning of a new adventure.

With physical theatre, song and lots of rhyming to create a performance for friends and family at the end of the week. £125 www.oxfordplayhouse.com

Thame, Faringdon & Highworth WHEN: July & August Summertown - Dragon Days (£130) and High School Musical Jnr (£180); Abingdon - Summer Jnr/ Snr ‘Play in a Week’ (£120/£180); Thame - Wind in the Willows (46yrs £95/7-11yrs £189) and Legally Blonde (£189), and Faringdon & Highworth-3-Day Workshop Moana (4-6yrs £108), ‘Show in a Week’ Hairspray Jr (6-18yrs £180) and 2-Day Fun Workshop (4-6yrs £72).

Check venues for details www.stagecoach.co.uk 0800 915 0199

PERFORM weekly drama, dance and singing classes

Children’s Workshop: Wildlife Photography

Wallingford, Thame Confidence building fun for 4-12s.

A unique mix of drama, dance and singing specially formulated to bring out every child’s true potential. Classes are kept small to ensure lots of individual attention.

No-obligation FREE trial sessions.

020 7255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk www.perform.org.uk/try

Environmental Education Centre WHEN: 16 August: 10.00-12.30 Learn how to take a great photograph with the guidance of expert wildlife photographer Iain Green. The course will start inside with an introduction to wildlife photography and camera settings.

8+. £25 www.bbowt.org.uk 01235 862024

WHERE: Oxford, Abingdon, Didcot,

WHERE: Sutton Courtenay

All Stars Cricket

WHERE: Venues across Oxfordshire

Children aged 5-8 years-old can get a great first experience in cricket with sessions accredited by the England & Wales Cricket Board. Kids develop key skills in a fun and safe environment where parents can join in too! Kids receive kit bag full of goodies and attend 8 weekly sessions. Book ahead, sessions begin May 2019. www.allstarscricket.co.uk 14 Families Oxfordshire

familiesonline.co.uk

Summer Clubs & Classes MONKEY MUSIC OXFORD WHERE: Oxford, Abingdon, Thame

Award winning music classes for kids 3 months to 4 years.

Educational and fun four-stage curricula designed to nurture a lifetime love of music. Weekly term-time sessions.

Book a FREE trial class. www.monkeymusic.co.uk 01235 519 806

Holiday Kids Club

War Horse Puppetry Workshop

WHERE: Soldiers of

Oxfordshire Museum WHEN: Fridays: 10.00-12.30 No Parents! Each week there’s a different theme and a quirky link to the museum’s collection.

Packed with trails, quizzes, games, craft, active learning, kitchen science and outdoor fun.

Pre-book. £8 www.sofo.org.uk/kids-club 01993 810211

WHEN: 27 August: 11.00 & 14.00

Mathnasium Learning Centres WHERE: Oxford

WHEN: Monday-Thursday &

Go along and learn more about the show and the art of puppetry in this interactive workshop.

Pre-book. £10 www.atgtickets.com

Saturday Where Maths makes sense! By producing a tailor-structured learning plan for each student according to his/her knowledge and skill level, the Mathnasium Method can help children in Years 2-12 better understand maths and leap ahead. Try the FREE maths skills assessment/ trial session. 01865 655968 www.mathnasium.co.uk/ northoxford

Holiday Club

WHERE: Thame Leisure Centre

Summer holiday OFSTED registered (accept childcare vouchers). Swimming, Basketball, Cricket, Gymnastics, Trampolining, Bouncy Castle, Football, Go-Karts, Table Tennis, Craft, Treasure Hunt, Street Dance, Archery and Racquet Sports. Full and part days. £21.50/half day; £34.50/day www.better.org.uk 01844 215607

When booking courses, please mention Families Oxfordshire Magazine Mathnasium of Amersham 29 Hill Ave, Amersham HP6 5BX Call 01494 729 726 eMail amersham@mathnasium.co.uk

Mathnasium is...

ENROLLING NOW!

A positive learning environment at our high street learning centres Flexible – no scheduling or pre-booking We help with school homework

Learning plans personalised to each child’s needs Proven results – independently verified

Mathnasium curriculum is compatible with, and complementary to, school education Mastery of Maths teaches life skills and builds confidence

We make maths fun - children love it!

At Mathnasium, we believe that every child has the ability to be successful in maths - it’s a matter of teaching the way that makes sense to them.

When maths makes sense, children excel whether they’re far behind or eager to get ahead.

Changing Lives Through Maths™ www.mathnasium.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk

Mathnasium of Bramhall 36 Woodford Road, Bramhall SK7 1PA Call 0161 637 6050 eMail bramhall@mathnasium.co.uk Mathnasium of Chiswick 261 Chiswick High Rd, Chiswick W4 4PU Call 0207 993 2234 eMail chiswick@mathnasium.co.uk Mathnasium of Clapham 122 Northcote Rd, Clapham SW11 6QU Call 0207 078 7000 eMail clapham@mathnasium.co.uk

Mathnasium of Crouch End 29 Broadway Parade, Crouch End N8 9DB Call 0203 004 9404 eMail crouchend@mathnasium.co.uk Mathnasium of Ealing 9 Bond Street, Ealing, London W5 5AP Call 02030049404 eMail ealing@mathnasium.co.uk Mathnasium of Oxford 18 South Parade, Summertown OX2 7JL Call 01865 655968 eMail northoxford@mathnasium.co.uk Mathnasium of Radlett 289 Watling St, Radlett WD7 7LA Call 01923 388 641 eMail radlett@mathnasium.com

Mathnasium of Westcroft 10c Barnsdale Drive, Milton Keynes MK4 4DD Call 01908 508833 eMail westcroft@mathnasium.co.uk Families Oxfordshire 15

MCS Families Online 210x297.qxp_Layout 1 11/06/2019 08:12 Page 3

Whole School Open Morning Saturday 14 September 9.30 am to 12.00 noon Visit mcsoxford.org/opendays to book

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2019 SOUTHEA T INDEPENDS SECONDAREYNT SCHOOL OF THE YEAR