PARTIES P4
WHAT’S ON? P16
COMPETITIONS P22
SOLIHULL
MAGAZINE & WEBSITE
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raring2go.co.uk
THE GO-TO GUIDE FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD
24/11/2021 16:39
WINTER 2022
Find out what a Crackley education could do for your child, come along to our
Open Day on Tuesday 18 January 2022. To book your place visit crackleyhall.co.uk
The next best place to home For information call 01926 514410 or visit crackleyhall.co.uk #crackleyandme
A journey into learning
Open Day - Tuesday 18 January 2022 2 to 4 years littlecrackers.co.uk | 01926 514410
Crackley Hall School
An independent school for 2-11 year olds
A Princethorpe Foundation School. Registered Charity Number 1087124.
A spirit of family
Open Afternoon - Sunday 13 March 2022 11 to 18 years princethorpe.co.uk | 01926 634201
Raring2go! EDITOR’S WELCOME
Become a
Time to kick off a New Year memory making The sparkle, lights and tinsel are all packed away for another year which means that it is time to start planning ahead for 2022. The dark nights and cold weather may be with us
• for It’s FREE joinbut that doesn’t mean that a little whileto longer we can’t get out and about and have fun. Why not • Monthly email newsletters grasp the virtual bull by the horns and discover with newtooffers events new activities enjoy as and a family or new places to explore in our local area? You’ll find lots of ideas • Download vouchers and and inspiration in this edition. save £££’s It’s been a tough couple of years so let’s make this • one Great count!competitions I think we all deserve a few treats, not
least the kids, so why not start right now? Sit down, take a flick through the magazine and get planning.
Nicola, Editor Contents
Page
Parties............................................... 4 Preschool Classes.............................7 Clubs and Classes...........................10 Book Reviews...................................12 What’s On?......................................16 Competitions................................... 22 Follow us on social media to keep up to date all year with your local #gotoguide for families.
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Raring2go! PARTIES
Party Time! APS Camps Your child picks APS CAMPS the theme of their party e.g jungle, space, princess, emergency services, world cup etc. and the sports and activities they love in advance. Invite up to 30 friends of theirs to share in their special day. 1 or 2 hours of fun games, activities, and medals. www.apscamps.com
Stagecoach Parties A range of imaginative parties from the Stagecoach team will take your child on a roller coaster ride through their imagination and land them safely back home with a bulging bag of amazing party memories. Whether they want to be princesses, pirates or detectives, there’s a Stagecoach Party for everyone. www.stagecoach.co.uk
Hatton Adventure World Ackers Adventure Parties With over ten adventurous activities to choose from, your party experience will be an active and enjoyable one for both children and adults. Choose from jungle challenge, climbing, canoeing, kayaking, bushcraft, archery, orienteering, bellboating, tubing, tobogganing, disc golf or skiing. www.ackers-adventure.co.uk/groups/ parties/
The Chocolate Shed Celebrate your child’s birthday this year with a fun, creative and yummy(!) chocolate-making party at The Chocolate Shed. Suitable for children of all ages. Party-goers get to design, create and decorate chocolate pizzas, frogs, pictures, bars or truffles to take home and enjoy. Parties tailored to suit your child’s age & hobbies that will make their chocolate-y dreams come true. Tel: 01564 794718
A range of party packages are available from bringing your own food and simply hiring the party room right the way through to having the services of a party host and including a Scales and Tails Experience. While government restrictions are in place entry to the Superslide Mania needs to be booked in advance. www.hattonworld.com
Becketts Farm Treat yourself and your friends to a bakery themed party and learn how to decorate cakes with our confectioners. Bake two dishes; pizza and cupcakes and enjoy with a party buffet. www.beckettsfarm.co.uk
www.thechocolateshed.com
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Raring2go! PARTIES
HADO Augmented Reality Parties have arrived in Solihull HADO Monster Battle allows you to battle huge monsters and their minions in the real world through HADO’s incredible Augmented Reality system.
For ages 6 and up, form yourselves into Monster Hunting teams and attempt to beat the 4 Boss Monsters before the time runs out and they escape. Maximum group size of 12, with up to 4 players per Monster Hunter team. Price for 1 hour, £60 for up to 6 players, £10 per additional player up to a maximum of 12 players. We also offer a great party meal package in our cafe.
www.hadouk.co.uk
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BONUS Rewards Book!
Reading Eggs, the multi-award winning online reading programme for kids aged 2-13. Trusted by teachers and parents alike, watch your child’s confidence, motivation and progress skyrocket in just 15 minutes a day with Reading Eggs. With access to all 5 programmes, including Mathseeds, for up to FOUR children, it’s the perfect way to fit in some positive screen time.
Ages 2–4
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Ages 5–10
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First Steps Delight your toddler with fun games and activities that build alphabet knowledge and ready‑to‑read skills.
Learning to Read Children follow structured, one‑on‑one lessons that teach phonics, sight words and reading skills.
Mastering Phonics Fast‑paced lessons cover key phonics skills, perfect for both emergent and struggling readers.
Building Confidence Older children can continue building key literacy skills that will help them succeed in school.
Learning Maths Nurture an early love of maths with structured lessons and activities that build essential maths skills.
FREE 30-DAY TRIAL
readingeggs.co.uk/r2go22 Scan QR code for 30‑Day FREE trial
Valid for new customers only. *30‑day free trial offer allows you to add up to 4 children. You will be charged at the end of your trial period unless you cancel before this time. You can cancel at any time by selecting the ‘Cancel Subscription’ option located on the ‘Manage My Subscription’ page in your family dashboard. Offer is valid for new UK customers only. One free rewards book per family when you sign up through the website while stocks last.
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Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL
Pre-School Little Kickers We give your children a positive introduction to sport by teaching high quality football skills in a friendly, pressure-free environment. There are four different classes tailored specifically to the needs of children between 18 months and seven years of age. It’s the perfect way to ignite an enthusiasm for sport that will stay with them for life. Contact: 0121 744 9730 rhiggs@littlekickers.co.uk www.littlekickers.co.uk
Music Monsters Music Monsters in a piano lesson programme created by Luke and Lauren Elliot, experts in children’s music education. We are a family-run business based in Solihull. Piano Monsters is for children aged 3-7 years, providing the very best start to their musical learning journey. We inspire a true love of learning in youngsters and their families, building skills, enjoyment and confidence. Contact: info@musicmonsters.co.uk www.musicmonsters.co.uk
Sing and Sign For babies and toddlers, up to 2 years old. Our Classes use musical and sensory activities to teach Baby Sign Language. These signs include daily routines and things little ones love. Using Baby Signs can develop communication and ease frustrations. Classes are live in Shirley and Dorridge term time, and online @home. Contact: Wendyjackson@singandsign.co.uk 07517 381117 www.singandsign.co.uk
Solihull Young Dancers Ballet classes for children aged from 2 ½ years and tap classes from 4 years on Saturday mornings at St Helen’s Church in Solihull. Our lessons focus on strong technique whilst retaining an element of fun to keep the pupils engaged at all times. Contact: kate@solihullyoungdancers.co.uk / 07722 732678 www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk
Thinktank – Toddler Thursdays Join us in the den for MiniBrum’s brand new pre-school sessions Toddler Thursday. Come along and join in with our friendly classroom session with songs and sounds, sensory play, creative activities and story time. Designed for little ones aged 18 months to 3 years to play, explore and experience STEM learning. There are six different STEM themes to enjoy including nature, animals, engineering, the seasons, space and transport. Inspire your future scientists and engineers through play! Come along to the Den in MiniBrum for a 10.30am start. Pre-booking essential. www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/thinktank
Groovy Little Movers Come and meet Groovy George the Giraffe! We offer engaging and educational dance and music classes for little ones. Classes are fast paced and fun and use a variety of props and instruments. Designed to develop children’s co-ordination and improve posture, balance and rhythm as well as develop confidence and creativity, alongside listening, language and social skills. Our original music creates a unique groove to our classes which are packed with learning but packaged in fun! Katy@groovyllittlemovers.co.uk www.groovylittlemovers.co.uk
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Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL
Sing, Dance and Play – the Groovy way
• Engaging & educational • Helps develop co-ordination, condence & creativity • Dance, sing & play using props, puppets & instruments • Taught by highly skilled Dance and Drama teachers
See Facebook for the class schedule
Saturday classes opening in 2022
THE
Call Katy on 07932 333284 katy@groovylittlemovers.co.uk www.groovylittlemovers.co.uk
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Taught in different age groups, classes are designed to develop co-ordination, improve posture, balance and rhythm. The structured classes develop confidence and creativity, alongside listening, language and social skills. Katy Luong is Creator and Director of Groovy Little Movers. She is Mum of 4 children, a qualified Teacher and Fitness Instructor. To get in touch, email: katy@groovylittlemovers.co.uk
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ANSWERS: 1: Giraffe 2: Ink 3:Telescope 4: William Shakespeare 5: Dragon 6: Tadpoles 7: South 8: The Titanic 9: Bungalow 10: Bonfire Night
• Fun packed dance and music classes for children aged 1 – 7 years
Groovy Little Movers is a unique and independent small business based in and around Solihull. It offers engaging and educational dance and music classes for little ones aged 1 - 7 years and their parents/ carers. Classes are fast paced and fun, use a variety of props and instruments and boast original music too.
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Raring2go! PRE-SCHOOL
• Football fun for children aged 18months - 7th Birthday • Learning the FUNdamentals of football through play. • We give children a positive introduction to sport by teaching football skills in a friendly, pressurefree environment. It’s the perfect way to ignite an enthusiasm for sport that will stay with them for life.
www.littlekickers.co.uk Contact us - rhiggs@littlekickers.co.uk 0121 744 9730 / 07946 377392
Learn the FUNdamentals of football through play Little Kicks – 18mths - 2.5yrs
Introduces the basics of football in a play orientated environment. A fantastic opportunity to assist in your child’s early education, helping them develop physically and improve cognitive and social skills in a pressure-free environment. Classes focus on early learning goals such as colours, sharing and attention and listening.
Junior Kickers – 2.5yrs - 3.5yrs
With more focus on the fundamentals of football such as dribbling, striking and goal scoring, games are cleverly disguised so children learn through fun, themed games. Skills badges such as kicking, physical literacy, imagination and team work are rewarded through this stage of the program.
Mighty Kickers – 3.5yrs - 5th Birthday
Mighty Kickers are confident with boundless energy and this is catered for in our classes. Games are fast-paced and increasingly football focused, with fun still at the heart, meaning that even new starters easily pick them up. Children begin to understand the importance of team play and matches are gradually introduced. We don’t just focus on physical development but personal, social and emotional development too.
Mega Kickers – 5 - 7th Birthday
Children become more competitive at this age, so our classes are specifically designed for maximum touches of the ball to cater for mixed abilities and to ensure fair play. Fun but progressively challenging games allow new skills to be learnt each lesson, as well as the understanding and practical application of matchplay. The match becomes the climax of the session and is the perfect outlet for channelling children’s energy as well as transferring their skills into a real world situation.
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Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES
Clubs & Classes APS Camps
Football, Multi Sports & Arts & Crafts Holiday Camps at Silhillians Sports Centre for children aged 4 – 14. www.apscamps.com
Aspire Sports
Sports and activity childcare during every school holiday at venues throughout the Midlands. Tel: 0121 663 1426 www.aspire-sports.co.uk
Complete Cricket
Established in 2007, Complete Cricket are a rapidly expanding Midlands based company who specialise in delivering an extensive range of ground-breaking high-quality cricket coaching programmes for individuals, schools, clubs, universities and county boards. Programmes include group coaching, oneto-one coaching and holiday camps. www.completecricket.co.uk
HADO
Augmented Reality crossed with Sports to create a unique Techno Sport. After school sessions for children aged 8+. Anyone is welcome, we can cater for all abilities and experience. Book a taster session and see if HADO is for you. www.hadouk.co.uk
Stagecoach
Dance, drama & singing classes for children ages 4-18. Theatre schools on Saturdays plus parties and holiday workshops open to all. Tel: Jenny on 0121 745 4007 www.stagecoach.co.uk/solihull
Team Super Sports Camps
Providing fun, professional and specialist coaching in Hockey, Rugby, Cricket, Netball, Football, Tennis and Dance/Gymnastics. At Team Super Sports, quality is at the heart of everything we do. Passionate about sport, every member of our ‘Team’ of young people join us to improve in their sport(s) while having fun with their friends. Each year since 2017, we have run sports coaching camps during the school holidays for children aged 5-16. Our specialism, we are widely regarded as one of the top sports coaching providers within Solihull and the surrounding areas. www.teamsupersports.co.uk
Music Monsters
Music Monsters in a piano lesson programme created by Luke and Lauren Elliot, experts in children’s music education. We are a family-run business based in Solihull. Piano Monsters is for children aged 3-7 years, providing the very best start to their musical learning journey. We inspire a true love of learning in youngsters and their families, building skills, enjoyment and confidence. www.musicmonsters.co.uk
Solihull Young Dancers
We welcome ballerinas (age 2 1/2 +), plus any tap and modern jazz dancers (aged 5 +). Encouraging musicality, expression and imagination. Exam and Show work. Based at St Helens Church, Solihull. Spaces available. Est. over 30 years. Tel: Kate on 07722 732678 www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk
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Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES
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Raring2go! BOOK REVIEWS
A book is always an adventure!
Little Glow
By Katie Sahota and Harry Woodgate For this dark season, Little Glow, is a joyful, colourful celebration of light festivals from many cultures and traditions, from the lighting of candles on a birthday cake, to the religious festival of Hanukah and Diwali, the joy of gathering around a bonfire as winter sets in, and of watching the light of the stars in the night sky. Little Glow is a single, small candle watching all the celebrations in the village through the window. Little Glow wonders if it is possible for one small flame to ever make a difference.
The King’s Birthday Suit By Peter Bently and Claire Powell
When two seemingly wellmeaning fabric merchants promise to make an outfit of only the very BEST and most special cloth, King Albert-Horatio-Otto the Third simply cannot resist. He MUST have these new clothes! Surely, the tailors are genuine, and the King won’t end up looking red-cheeked. This funny retelling of the classic fable ‘The Emperor’s New Clothes’ will not only make children laugh, but also encourage them to think and speak up for what they believe!
Everything Under the Sun By Molly Oldfield
How much bamboo can a giant panda eat? Do aliens exist? What would we do if we didn’t have a prime minister? Why do hammerhead sharks have such strange-shaped heads? Find out the answers to these curious questions and much, much more! Ponder where ideas come from with awardwinning illustrator, Rob Biddulph. Find out why you taste things differently when you have a cold with Michelin star chef, Heston Blumenthal. Learn about everything from how astronauts see in the dark to what the biggest dinosaur was with experts from the Natural History Museum. This is a book to treasure and share.
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Genie and Teeny Make a Wish By Steven Lenton
When Grant the Genie is cast out of Genie World, he lands on Earth with a big, fat bump! Without a lamp to call home, he has to settle for an old, cracked teapot. Grant is very lonely until he meets the puppy, Teeny. Then Genie and Teeny are kidnapped and, find themselves on-course for a rollercoaster of an adventure.
Otherland
By Louie Stowell Otherland is a dangerous magical underworld - a place where appearances can be deceiving and anything can happen. It’s also... horrible. When best friends Myra and Rohan discover that Rohan’s baby sister Shilpa has been stolen and taken to Otherland, the only way to rescue her is by facing three impossible challenges set by the Fairy Queen. Win the game, and they can go home with Shilpa - but lose, and they’ll be trapped in Otherland forever. A darkly funny, action-packed fantasy adventure, perfect for fans of Malamander, Stranger Things, Coraline and Pan’s Labyrinth, from the author of the highlyacclaimed Dragon in the Library series.
Elsetime
By Eve McDonnel A magical fantasy set in London in dual time periods. Full of folklore and old magic, this is a perfect cosy winter read! It’s January 1928, the day before the great flood. The town is buzzing with excitement about the great inventor who is coming to visit. But there’s a snowstorm and the river is about to burst its banks – what London doesn’t know is that fourteen souls will be lost. Can Glory, an orphan with only one hand, and her time-travelling friend Needle and their pet crow change the future? Is there anyone who will listen? Reviews by Tamsin Rosewell for Kenilworth Books
Kenilworth Books, Talisman Square, Kenilworth CV8 1JB
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Raring2go! CLUBS & CLASSES
APS CAMPS
APS CAMPS
Ballet Classes:
SUPERSTAR
from the age of 2½ upwards
www.apscamps.com
FOOTBALL, MULTI SPORTS & ARTS & CRAFTS HOLIDAY CAMP
Tap Classes: from the age of 4 upwards
@ Silhillians Sports Centre, Warwick Road, Solihull B93 9LW
At APS CAMPS holiday camps you can:• Train in our Solihull 8:45 FC football club 13:00 • Try over 25 different 8:45 multi sports 15:00 • Create loads of amazing arts and 8:45 – crafts 17:00 OR…. You can do ALL 3! Your child can decide every 45 minutes on the day! Ages: 4 –12, boys & girls, all abilities welcome
Daily rate
Weekly rate
£22
£100
£33
£150
£40
£180
50%
TEACHING BALLET AND TAP IN THE BOROUGH FOR OVER 40 YEARS
Let’s Dance!
SIBLING DISCOUNT OFFERED
Come and join the fun on Saturday mornings from 9.15am at St Helens Church, Solihull
Register and book online Contact: apscamps@yahoo.com or call Andy on 07944 296 721 www.apscamps.com
Call Kate on
07722 732 678
www.solihullyoungdancers.co.uk
Action-packed childcare this
February Half Term Choice of venues and activities
15% OFF
*
*Offer ends 5pm Friday 4th February
with code
R2GFEBS22
Solihull Alderbrook School
Monday 21st Friday 25th February
Open all week from 8am - 6pm
For more info and to book your place visit activecamps.co.uk or call 0121 663 1426
Ofsted registered 13
Raring2go!
Love Our Earth
Climate change has taken centre stage in the news recently but how can we help our children develop a love for the Earth and be armed with the knowledge to save it without scaring them?
1. Love Nature Having an appreciation of nature from an early age will help children see that our world is beautiful and worth their time and effort. Local parks, woodlands and nature reserves are a great place to start. Encourage youngsters to spot things from nature or print out a bug hunt, scavenger trail or animal detective sheet from the Kids Zone on our website. When you get home, create a piece of art from items you collected. Keep an eye out for children’s holiday workshops that encourage a love of nature such as pond dipping or forest schools such as the ones run by Compton Verney.
2. Love Walking Getting out on foot is by far the best way to travel for the environment and is good for our health too. Get children to love walking by making it fun. Get a pedometer or download a free app to your phone so they can see how many steps they’ve taken.
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3. Love Animals A great way to develop a love for animals is to see them with your own eyes. By visiting your local zoo, safari park or animal conservation centre you are helping to protect endangered species both here and abroad. You can find out more about how places like West Midland Safari Park and Stratford-upon-Avon Butterfly Farm support conservation projects around the world on their websites.
4. Love Recycling Get your children to help with sorting the recycling when they are old enough. It might seem a massive task to reduce the amount of plastic we use but, break it down so that children can see the small things they can do can make a difference. Easy changes to make include taking a reusable water bottle to school, using alternatives to clingfilm in packed lunches such as bees wax wrap or compostable cling film, buying large, sharing bags of crisps and separating them into smaller reusable pots to reduce the amount of packaging waste, or using rechargeable batteries for their electronic toys and games instead of single-use batteries.
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5. Love Local
8. Love Parties
The amount of litter found in our local environment can be surprising. As well as making the world around us untidy and being a danger to wildlife, it can find its way into rivers, streams and canals and can make its way to the sea. Every year, an estimated 8 million tonnes of litter enter the world’s oceans posing a risk to animal and marine life. What can we do? Consider joining an organised litter pick, you will be provided with a litter picker, gloves and high-vis making it safer. If you can’t find one why not suggest organising one at your school, Scout, Brownie or Guide group. Love Solihull and Keep Britain Tidy are great places to find out more.
Most children love to receive their party bag at the end of a party so it is hard to argue that they are unnecessary but, how often do those bags full of goodies end up, a few days later, as a collection of plastic nick-nacks that no one is really interested in? Use a paper bag, consider replacing the plastic toys with a book and look for edible items that come with plastic-free packaging like the ones offered by Henley Chocolates. Hire decorations so that they get reused and consider biodegradable latex balloons or, if you have foil ones, remember that these can be recycled.
6. Love Food Visit local working farms to see how our food is grown and meet the animals. Buy local produce from the farm shop and reduce your own carbon footprint and ‘food miles’. We have some great places to visit in our local area like The Farm in Stratford, Hill Top Farm and Oakes Farm Shop.
7. Love Knowledge Find out more about eco-issues by visiting websites which give ideas of how to explain the facts in a child-friendly way. It’s Our Planet Too and BBC Bitesize have some great resources aimed at a younger audience.
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Raring2go! WHAT’S ON?
What’s On? Winter 2022 Until 30 January
Packwood House – Percy the Park Keeper’s Winter Wander Trail
This Winter, treat your little ones to a world of adventures through the welly walk. Join in the fun with Percy and his animal friends and give nature a helping hand. www.nationaltrust.org.uk
18 – 22 January
The Alexandra Theatre – The Addams Family Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, is all grown up and has a shocking secret that only Gomez knows. She’s fallen in love with a sweet young man from a respectable family. With his cherished Morticia in the dark, will Gomez manage to keep his daughter’s secret until the two families meet for a fateful dinner with hilarious consequences? Featuring a live orchestra and extraordinary original score The Addams Family is sure to entertain whether you are 12 or 312! www.atgtickets.com
5 February
The Albany Theatre – Dear Zoo
Rod Campbell’s much-loved lift the flap book has been a firm favourite with children and parents for nearly forty years. Lovingly adapted for the stage, his distinctive illustrations leap from the page in this colourful show packed full of puppetry, songs and, of course, all the animals from the zoo. www.albanytheatre.co.uk
6 February
Royal Spa Centre – Izzy Gizmo
Best-selling children’s book, Izzy Gizmo, tells the enchanting story of an intrepid young inventor who puts her talents to work to rescue a crow that can’t fly. This brand-new family concert brings Izzy’s mechanical marvels and infectious creative spirit to life! Narrated by Polly Ives and with pictures from the book, this concert is a great introduction to live music for children. Original music by Paul Rissmann
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features pots, pans, whistles and household items (as well as orchestral instruments). Ideal for ages 3-7 but great fun for everyone, it’s full of wit, invention, songs and actions, and plenty of opportunities to join in. www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk
11 February – 6 March
Compton Verney – Spectacle of Light
Enjoy this beautiful, illuminated trail through the majestic woodland and around the parkland all lit under the stars. Explore the stunning light installations, walk through the changing Light Curve, immerse yourself in the Carpet of Colour on the main lawn and be amazed by the sparkling light beams across the lake. Sip delicious Mulled Wine and Hot Chocolate as you meander along this beautiful trail. Take a moment by the house to tuck into scrumptious hot food and mouth-watering treats. www.comptonverney.org.uk
19 February
The Albany Theatre – So you think you know about Dinosaurs?
‘So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs?’ is the hit stage show starring dinosaur aficionado Dr Ben Garrod. Get ready to go on an exciting pre-historic adventure as Ben explores the biggest, deadliest and weirdest predators that ever roamed the planet. So come and test your knowledge against Dr Ben in this hit live interactive show – Now bigger and better than ever. www.albanytheatre.co.uk
19 – 27 February
British Motor Museum – Half Term F1 Fun
Fuel their imagination this half term with a range of Formula One racing themed family activities. Make a LEGO® F1 car, enjoy a weekend family tour with a ‘resident racing driver’ and follow the new Road Map family trail to explore the cars in the collection. Join the crazy scientists to discover the secrets of speed in their ever-popular Science Shows on 21-22 and 24-25 February or make and launch Rocket Cars with the STEM ambassadors from MOD Kineton on 23 February. www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk
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Raring2go! WHAT’S ON?
Fuel their imagination Half-term
F1 Fun
19 to 27 Feb Join us for racing themed activities. Joseph,11. Future Racing Car Driver
britishmotormuseum.co.uk/families 17 BMM-FebHT-2022-Raringtogo-63x89.indd 1
13/12/2021 12:37
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON?
What’s On? Winter 2022 19 – 27 February
Stratford-upon-avon Butterfly Farm – February Half Term
Enjoy the relaxing pleasure of walking amongst some of the world’s most stunning and colourful butterflies in a tropical rainforest setting. Find out about the amazing life-cycle of a butterfly and take a look inside the Emerging Case to see row upon row of butterfly chrysalis. Discover their fascinating link the rainforests of Belize and the ancient Maya civilisation and watch leafcutter ants go about their daily business in the Flight Area. Purchase tickets online in advance to guarantee entrance. www.butterflyfarm.co.uk
19 – 27 February
Kenilworth Castle – Half Term Explorer Quest
With spring just around the corner, get out and about this February half term on this brand new explorer quest. Track down the clues and solve the puzzles as you follow the family trail through the grounds of Kenilworth Castle and enjoy a brilliant day out in history. www.english-heritage.org.uk
19 – 27 February
Hatton Adventure World – February Frolics and Curious Creatures
Meet some Curious Creatures – all sorts of different species will be joining you at Hatton this February half term. Come and see a variety of weird & wonderful animal guests. Plus, a full programme of fun activities and all the usual Hatton activities. www.adventure.hattonworld.com
19 February – 6 March
Birmingham Rep – Coming to England
10-year-old Floella is strong and brave. When her parents leave Trinidad for England her young life is turned upside down when she’s placed with a cruel foster ‘auntie’. Eventually sailing to join her parents, Floella’s excitement for her new life in England is short-lived, with the family subjected to
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racism and intolerance in 1960s’ London. Guided by her inspirational mother, young Floella strives to overcome adversity. Bursting onto the stage with music, storytelling, humour and pathos, this world premiere production brings Floella Benjamin’s award-winning and iconic book Coming to England to vivid life on stage. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk
19 February – May Lower Drayton Farm – Meet the lambs
Visitors will get to meet and learn all about lambs during the Lambs & Ewe event. In addition to getting up close to the farm’s ewes and their lambs in the large animal zone, you’ll discover lots of facts about sheep and lambs and hear about what happens during the busy lambing season on the farm. There will be a fun ‘woolly’ quiz trail with lots of sheep-based facts and figures to discover, and children will be able to create their own lamb-themed piece of art to take home. This is all in addition to the usual PLAY@ fun, which includes two massive indoor play barns with something for all ages. Book online and save 10% with code R2G10. www.playatthefarm.co.uk
20 February
The Albany Theatre – Wind in the Willows
Pack your picnics and join Ratty, Mole, Badger, and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime, culminating in a colourful battle to save Toad Hall from the mischievous weasels! A TOAD-ally terrific treat whether you’re 4 or 104! www.albanytheatre.co.uk
22 & 24 February
The Chocolate Shed – Chocolate Making Workshops
2 hour chocolate making workshops to suit different ages. On 22 Feb, under 8’s at 10:30 and over 8’s at 2:30. Parent and child session at 10:30 on 24 Feb. www.thechocolateshed.com
raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! WHAT’S ON?
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Raring2go! WHAT’S ON?
What’s On? Winter 2022 22 - 27 February
NEC Birmingham - Camping, Caravan and Motorhome Show
UK’s biggest showcase of motorhomes, campervans, caravans, caravan holiday homes and luxury lodges. Plus, tents of all shapes and sizes, trailer tents and folding caravans all under one roof. www.ccmshow.co.uk
25 February
Warwick Racecourse – Fiver Friday
This offer is a once in a season opportunity to come racing for just £5.00. The feature race of the day is the Budbrooke Chase which is always a competitive race. Remember, under 18’s race free! www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/warwick
26 – 27 February
mac Birmingham – Jabala and The Jinn
A story of a little girl’s encounter with a very cheeky Jinn. We’re in Bradford. It’s been a few months since Jabala’s beloved Mum died. Dad is a brilliant father, but it’s an effort to get to school on time every day. One morning, when she says goodbye to her house as usual, Jabala hears a voice replying to her in Arabic. But no one’s there. Could it be Mum? Has she imagined it? www.macbirmingham.co.uk
26 & 27 February
Shropshire Kids Festival Telford
This indoor Kids Festival returns to the International Centre in Telford, to finish off half term with some family fun. The festival lays on a selection of activities for children aged 0-14. This normally includes an obstacle course, inflatables, giant games, dancing, space hoppers, have-a-go music tent, go karts, STEM activities, Haygate vet school, arts, crafts, circus skills, cheerleading, nerf wars, martial arts, football arena, hockey shoot out, golf skills, mini ice rink and a dedicated under 5 zone. All activities are included in the cost of admission. www.shropshirekidsfest.co.uk
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8 – 12 March
The Alexandra Theatre – The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Step through the wardrobe this winter into the magical kingdom of Narnia for the most mystical of adventures in a faraway land. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they wave goodbye to wartime Britain and say hello to a talking Faun, an unforgettable Lion and the coldest, cruellest White Witch. The nations favourite novel, now on the stage. www.atgtickets.com
5 – 6 April
The Alexandra Theatre – Dragons and Mythical Beasts Live
Unveil a myriad of dark secrets and come face to face with some of the most magnificent monsters and terrifying beasts ever to walk the earth. Discover the colossal Stone Troll, the mysterious Indrik and Japanese Baku; the Tooth Fairy (not as sweet as you’d think), an adorable Unicorn and majestic Griffin. Take your place among legendary heroes, just don’t wake the Dragon… From the creators of the West End smash hit ‘Dinosaur World Live’, who bring spectacular puppets to life, don’t miss this brand-new spell-binding adventure, live on stage! www.atgtickets.com
14 April
The Albany Theatre – Dinosaur Adventure Live
Join intrepid Dinosaur Adventurers as they journey to a world of living, breathing, life-like Dinosaurs. Walk with them through the Jurassic era on an unforgettable interactive experience as they introduce you to some of the most incredible species ever to have lived on Earth. www.albanytheatre.co.uk
16 April
The Albany Theatre – Rapunzel
A tangled musical adventure! Let your hair down in a brand-new adaptation of the popular fairy tale ‘RAPUNZEL’. This production promises to be a theatrical treat for audiences of all ages, featuring a witty script, original music, and some songs you may already know. Get tangled up with a host of loveable characters from this magical fairy tale. www.albanytheatre.co.uk
raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! COMPETITONS
Competition Winners
RSC
Aika Kumada, 9, Bishops Tachbrook School
Blenheim Palace Joanne Broadway
Old Rep Theatre
mac Birmingham
Susan Guilfoyle
Jo Shilton
Stratford-Upon-Avon Butterfly Farm Vihaan Jain, 7, Greswold Primary School
Festive Gift Fair
Elizabeth Treadwell, Liz Shaw
Complete Cricket
Legoland Discovery Centre
Danielle Walker
Gabriel Stephens, 6, Bentley Heath Primary School
COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS: Enter the competitions online at www.raring2go.co.uk/ solihull/competitions. The winner will be the first correct entry or entries drawn at random. No cash alternative. The winner will be notified by phone or email. Full terms and conditions are available online at www.raring2go. co.uk/competition-terms.
WIN! 2 x 1 hour sessions with Tutor in a Box
Tutor in a Box offers private tuition as well as a more affordable at home learning subscription. Our educational subscription box is full of activities and online guided videos to support your child’s learning. If you’re wanting more personal support for your child, then tuition is a great option. You can use it alongside our postal resources or on its own. We’ll explain the concepts in easy-to-understand ways, providing you with support and guidance to enable you to achieve your best.
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To be in with a chance of winning 2 x 1 hour sessions with Tutor in a Box, just answer the following question: What is the next number in this sequence –- 5, 10, 15, 20 ... A – 21 B – 25 C – 30 D – 50
Closing date 28 February 2022. Enter online at raring2go.co.uk. Full terms and conditions above.
raring2go.co.uk
Raring2go! COMPETITONS
WIN! A week at an Aspire Active Camp
WIN! A cuddly dragon and ‘Where’s the Unicorn?’ book
If you’re looking for school holiday ideas that keep your child active, enable them to make new friends, build confidence and learn new skills all while having lots of fun, then look no further! For children aged 4 -14, Aspire Active Camps run a whole range of sports and physical activities during the school holidays!
In the Dragons and Mythical Beasts stage show you enter into a magical world of myths and legends. You can experience the fantastical world of Dragons and Mythical Beasts at The Alexandra from Tue 5 Wed 6 April 2022.
To be in with the chance of winning a week for one child at an Aspire Active Camp, just answer the following question:
To be in with a chance of winning a cuddly dragon toy and a ‘Where’s the Unicorn Book?’ simply submit your answer to the question below:
What’s the minimum age you have to be to attend the Aspire Active Camp? A–1
B–4
Which mythical beast in the show comes from Japan? A) the Indrik
C – 10
Closing date 11 February 2022. Enter online at raring2go.co.uk. Full terms and conditions opposite.
B) the Griffin
C) the Baku
Closing date 31 March 2022. Enter online at raring2go.co.uk. Full terms and conditions opposite.
WIN! A Tikkers Interactive Watch Tikkers Interactive watches are jam-packed with cool features, including a talking time teacher, selfie camera, video recorder and step counter. Other features include an alarm, calendar, stop watch, calculator, voice recorder, countdown timer and a choice of 20 amazing displays! There is also a selection of exciting games to keep kids entertained, but our parental controls mean you can stay in charge. Our specially designed time teaching function will help your child master the art of telling time using a traditional analogue clock face whilst still having all the tech features that they will love! The generously sized touch screen allows children to easily control their watch, whist the soft silicone strap is comfortable for them to wear. To be in with a chance of winning a Tikkers Interactive Watch, just answer the following question: Which of the following is your child not able to do with their Tikkers Interactive Watch? A – learn to tell the time B – get ready to leave the house C – take a selfie D – play games Closing date 28 February 2022. Enter online at raring2go.co.uk. Full terms and conditions opposite.
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