Families Thames Valley East Magazine Sept/Oct 26

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Thames Valley East

IN THIS ISSUE

Education Parenting What's On

An award-winning education Join us for an Open Morning on Saturday 3 October Book your place today at stgwindsor.org A place where children may find their ‘happy ever after’

Issue 146 September/October 2026

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Independent Prep School of the Year

Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley East

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Hello Co-Ed

OPEN EVENTS: Friday 11 and Tuesday 29 September 11am - 12.30pm Friday 2 and Tuesday 13 October 11am - 12.30pm

A leading co-ed day and boarding school, 11-18 years

heathfieldschool.net | +44 (0) 1344 898343

Small School Big Opportunities

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Give your child the confidence, skills and support they need to excel in the 11+ exam.

Year 4 11+ Preparation Class – Build strong foundations Year 5 11+ Preparation Class – Master exam techniques Led by a qualified teacher Fun, nurturing and engaging classes Regular assessments and feedback Mindfulness Exclusive monthly book club Personalised bag for each child Mock Exam Days Creative Writing Workshops ABBOTSBROOK HALL, BOURNE END, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE QUALIFIED TEACHER DBS CHECKED FIRST AID TRAINED

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CONTENTS ...endless ideas for families of young children in

Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham

Thames Valley East

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In this issue 4-5 6 8 9 11 12 14 16 17 18 19 21-23 19

NEWS & INFORMATION EDUCATION Building maths confidence in upper primary school Open days Meet the Head - Upton House She Means Business: Pathways Tuition A smooth transition from EYFS to Year 1 How sport and education can work together PARENTING Conversation hacks to use with your preteen or teen Using anchoring to calm anxiety BOOK CLUB SEASONAL Become an autumn detective WHAT’S ON FOOD Delicious AND nutritious lunch box ideas

Families Thames Valley East is a franchise of Families Print Ltd of 75 Lisbon Avenue, Twickenham, TW2 5HL. Families is a registered trademark of Families Print Ltd. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. The contents of Families Thames Valley East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Thames Valley East. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine but the franchise owner and Families Print Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers, nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.

GIVEAWAY

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@familiestveMag

Well, after a long hot summer, it’s time to get back to school or routine and embrace Autumn! We hope it’s a September full of promise and new projects, great new teachers and new interests for you all! We have many articles to support your child’s education journey, including: ‘Building maths confidence in upper primary school’ on page 6, ‘A smooth transition from EYFS to Year 1’ on page 12 and ‘How sport and education can work together’ on page 14. We meet the new head, Matt Robinson from Upton House School on page 9 and our open days diary is on page 8. We’re looking forward to reading ‘Conversation hacks to use with your preteen or teen’ on page 16 as our children are getting a bit older. Plus, there’s also an article on ‘Using anchoring to calm anxiety’. Autumn still has many events to look forward to as we go about our routines. Make sure you check out the 60+ events in our What’s On columns on pages 21-23. We’re sure you’ll find some exciting things to do!

Editors: Anna Collins and Rachel Bailey 07753 414605 (Anna) 07867 514138 (Rach) editor@familiestveast.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Ages 3+

Discover the out-of-this-world personality of Disney’s Ultimate Stitch

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November/December Book by: 3 October Circulation: 17,000 Cover image: depositphotos.com

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

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NEWS & INFORMATION

Eton College opens their gates for annual charity fair

Carve out some fun at Odds’ Pumpkin Festival

One of the area's best-loved community events returns this September as Eton College opens its historic grounds for the annual Eton Action Fair.

More than 15,000 pumpkins will be ready for picking, when Bucks-based Odds Farm Park kicks off its Pumpkin Festival which will run on selected dates from Saturday 3 October to Sunday 1 November and include the half term holidays.

Each year, the fair welcomes thousands of visitors from Windsor and the surrounding area for a day of family entertainment, community spirit and fundraising. Organised by Eton pupils and staff through Eton Action, the event has become a much-loved local tradition, raising between £30,000 and £40,000 for charity each year. This year, the fair will take place on Saturday 26 September (11am-4pm) with more than 100 stalls, live entertainment and activities, as well as the opportunity to explore parts of Eton College that are not normally open to the public. Admission is £3 adults and £2 children, with all entry fees going directly to the following beneficiary charities chosen by Eton pupils: Busy Buttons CORE Charity – A Windsor-based charity using the arts to support young people's mental wellbeing and strengthen community connections. LouLou Race Foundation – Helping talented young athletes access opportunities in grassroots sport. Alexander Devine Children's Hospice Service – Providing specialist care and vital support to children with lifelimiting conditions and their families across Berkshire and neighbouring counties. Motor Neurone Disease Association – Funding research, providing care and support and working towards a world free from motor neurone disease. MMPower Foundation – Empowering disadvantaged communities in Myanmar and Cambodia through education, clean water and sanitation initiatives. So, pop the 26 September in your calendar as the Eton Action Fair promises a fantastic day out for all ages while helping to make a real difference. www.etoncollege.com/eton-outwards/eton-action/etonaction-fair

Louise Winslow, assistant general manager at the farm says: “Nothing heralds the start of autumn quite like preparations for our annual Pumpkin Festival. Our daytime events at weekends and half term are geared up for families, and we have two Twilight sessions for those families who have slightly older children. We also have a special one-off evening event for adults on Friday 16 October where everyone gets a free pumpkin and there will be circus performers and after dark entertainers for our guests.” The Pumpkin Festival at Odds features a variety of pumpkins and gourds including Batwing, Casperita and Celebration throughout the event. Visitors can also look forward to the return of Pumpkin Central, a dedicated autumn-themed space at the farm for guests to capture their family pumpkin pictures. The festival runs daily through the school half term holiday where children will be able to collect a wheelbarrow before heading to the Pumpkin Patch to choose their own free pumpkin to take home. Keen carvers can head to the Craft Barn where there will be all the tools to create some spooky Jack-O-Lanterns without making a mess at home. There will also be daily Halloweenthemed arts and crafts for little ones to get stuck into. In addition to a jolly gourd programme of entertainment there are also over 30 breeds of different animals to meet, the outdoor adventure play areas, tractor and trailer ride, H2Odds water play, Marmalade’s Mini Rover rides and indoor soft play barn for guests to enjoy each day. The Pumpkin Festival takes place on weekends throughout October; 3-4, 10-11 and then 12-18 and 24 October-1 November from 10am-5.30pm. The Sunset Sessions take place on Saturday 10 and 24 October from 6pm. The Adults Night is on Friday 16 October. Every paying child who visits throughout the Pumpkin Festival is entitled to a FREE pumpkin! www.oddsfarm.co.uk

New Digital Support Plans for SEND pupils A sweeping reform of the UK special educational needs and disabilities system will legally require every primary school child with identified special educational needs to have a digital Individual Support Plan (ISP). These plans will replace the old SEN Support tier and require schools to record day-to-day needs, targeted support and expected outcomes, all while involving parents in the process. Accessible to teachers and parents, these living documents are designed to travel seamlessly with children between school years and education phases like a digital passport, preventing critical support from dropping during transitions. The national initiative is backed by a new £1.6 billion Inclusive Mainstream Fund designed to boost early intervention. While headteachers welcome the push to cut down the lengthy bureaucracy of traditional plans, many warn that school funding must match these rising operational demands. More information at www.bit.ly/SENchanges 4

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NEWS & INFORMATION

The UK’s leading future-ready, values-led school Leighton Park is an independent co-ed day and boarding school in Reading for ages 11-18, inspiring young people to think boldly, learn adventurously and live with purpose. An exceptional education is about becoming who you’re meant to be – backed by a kind and aspirational learning community. Leighton Park is a co-educational school where relationships matter, where compassionate challenge is central to school life and where students are encouraged to develop as reflective, confident young people with purpose and integrity. Consistently recognised as one of the country's very best schools, their STEAM academic approach means students gain the skills to understand complex global problems. The school is proud to have one of the country’s top music departments and there are 30 sports, with real strength in Football, Hockey and Netball. Discover more at their Open Morning on 26 September. www.leightonpark.com/visit-leighton-park

A child’s first shoes and what to look out for Your child’s first shoes aren’t just cute; they’re important. Tiny feet grow fast, and the wrong fit can affect comfort and development. A professional fitting gives them the support they need to walk, run and play with confidence. Children's feet contain soft, developing cartilage that gradually hardens into bone. Shoes that are too tight can compress this cartilage, potentially leading to deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or ingrown toenails. Conversely, shoes that are too loose cause instability and can alter a child's gait. A well-fitted shoe should have about a thumb's width of space betwee n the longest toe and the shoe's end. The heel should fit snugly without slipping, and the widest part of the foot should align with the widest part of the shoe. Trained fitters can assess arch support needs, identify gait issues, and recommend appropriate styles for different activities. Growth spurts happen without warning, so parents should check fit every six to eight weeks. Watch for signs like reluctance to wear shoes, red marks on feet, or curled toes. Of course, if properly measured in the first place, it is highly unlikely that your child will need new shoes every 6/8 weeks, but do be mindful that young children cannot always tell you if their shoes are hurting them. Investing time in proper fitting now protects your child's mobility, posture and comfort for years to come. The Children's Shoe Company is based in Marlow. They will be able to guide you further when fitting your child's first shoes. www.thechildrensshoecompany.co.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Families Thames Valley East

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EDUCATION

Building maths confidence in upper primary school By Ksenia Volgemut Many children begin upper primary school feeling comfortable with maths, only to lose confidence as the work becomes more abstract. In Years 5 and 6, pupils encounter longer word problems, fractions, decimals, percentages, negative numbers, multi-step calculations and early algebraic thinking. For some children, this shift can feel sudden. A dip in maths confidence does not always mean a child is ‘bad at maths.’ Often, it means they have small gaps in understanding, feel unsure about methods or panic when questions look unfamiliar. The good news is that confidence can be rebuilt with calm, regular support.

Parents can also build maths into everyday moments. Cooking involves measuring, sharing and scaling quantities. Shopping involves money, estimation and percentages. Travel involves time, distance and problem-solving. These small examples show children that maths goes beyond the classroom.

One of the most helpful things parents can do is make maths feel normal, not frightening. Children often hear adults say things like: ‘I was never good at maths either.’ Although this may be meant kindly, it can accidentally suggest that maths ability is fixed. A better message is: ‘You might not understand it yet but we can work it out step by step.’

However, support at home should not become pressure. If a child is already anxious, too many extra worksheets can make maths feel like a punishment. Start with what they can do, then stretch gently. A child who feels successful is more likely to try the next challenge.

Upper primary maths depends heavily on foundations. Times tables, number bonds, place value and basic fractions all support later topics. If these are shaky, harder questions can feel overwhelming. Short, regular practice is usually more effective than long sessions. Five to ten minutes of focused recall, a few times a week, can help children feel more secure. It also helps to talk through mistakes calmly. When a child gets an answer wrong, try asking: ‘Where did it start to go wrong?’ rather than ‘Why did you get that wrong?’ This turns mistakes into information. Perhaps your child misread the question, forgot a times table, rushed a step or chose the wrong operation. Once the pattern is clear, the solution becomes easier. Word problems are another common confidence barrier. Many children can complete a calculation when it is written clearly but struggle when the same maths is hidden in a paragraph. Encourage your child to underline key information, circle the question being asked and decide which operation is needed before they start calculating. This slows down the process and helps them feel more in control.

It is also worth praising the process rather than the speed. Fast answers are not always accurate and slower pupils may have strong reasoning skills. Say things like: ‘I like how you checked that’ or ‘That was a good method,’ rather than only praising the final answer. As secondary school approaches, maths expectations increase. Pupils need to explain methods, solve multi-step problems and apply knowledge in new situations. Building confidence before Year 7 can make that transition feel much smoother. Maths confidence grows when children feel safe to try, make mistakes and practise regularly. Parents do not need to know every method perfectly. What matters most is creating a calm routine, encouraging effort and helping children believe that maths can improve with practice. Ksenia Volgemut is from Battersea House, a UK-based online tutoring platform supporting students from primary through GCSE and A-level. Families can claim their first session FREE at www.batterseahouse.co.uk.

T 01753 833 771 E mail@cotwmontessori.co.uk W cotwmontessori.co.uk

Education and play from 17 months to 5 years old within a friendly and nurturing environment • 2½ - 5 year old classes • 17 months – 2½ year old toddler class St Mark’s Hall, Dedworth Road, Windsor SL4 4JS To arrange a visit telephone: Cheryl or Alexis 01753 833 771

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Step Inside Eton End & Book a Personal Tour

A childhood to cherish. An education for life.

A warm and ambitious prep school and nursery where every child is known, nurtured and inspired to thrive.

etonend.org / registrar@etonend.org call 01753 541075

Herries Co-Ed Preparatory School & Nursery Cookham Dean, Berkshire from age 2 to 11 years

Herries:

Small Classes. Exceptional Outcomes.

Herries is located in the idyllic woodland home of Wind in the Willows author, Kenneth Grahame!

Over 80% of our pupils have progressed to Grammar and selective Independent Schools over the past five years. » 11+ Partner School » Subject-specialist teaching across the curriculum » Destination School Preparation » Languages, art, music and drama opportunities

To book a tour call 01628 483350 or email admissions@herries.org.uk | www.herries.org.uk

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

“

Herries is a small, family-focused community that provides pupils with high academic standards, a varied curriculum within an inclusive, nurturing environment and rich extra-curricular opportunities.........

“

» Extensive sports programme at Bisham Abbey

ISI INSPECTION REPORT 2025

Families Thames Valley East

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EDUCATION

Nursery and Schools’ Open Days

Autumn 2026

All details correct at time of going to press (August 26)

Please call the school to check the Open Day or Evening is still going ahead. Children of the World Montessori St Mark’s Hall, Windsor, SL4 4JS Saturday 17 October To book a visit, contact below: 01753 833771 mail@cotwmontessori.co.uk www.cotwmontessori.co.uk Coworth Flexlands Prep School and Nursery Chertsey Road, Chobham, GU24 8TE Friday 2 October Friday 13 November 10am To book a visit, contact below: 01276 855707 registrar@coworthflexlands.co.uk www.coworthflexlands.co.uk Eton End 35 Eton Road, Datchet, SL3 9AX To book a visit, contact below: 01753 541075 registrar@etonend.org www.etonend.org

Herries School Co-ed Preparatory School and Nursery Dean Lane, Cookham Dean, SL6 9BD To book a private tour, contact below: 01628 483350 admissions@herries.org.uk Instagram: HerriesWindintheWillows www.herries.org.uk Leighton Park School Shinfield Road, Reading RG2 7DE Saturday 26 September Friday 16 October Friday 6 November 9-11am Tuesday 13 October Tuesday 10 November Taster days for current year 6. 8.30am-3.30pm To book a visit, contact below: 0118 9879608 admissions@leightonpark.com www.leightonpark.com Long Close School

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St Piran’s School Co-ed day prep for 2-11yrs Gringer Hill, Maidenhead, SL6 7LZ Friday 2 October 9.15-11.15am To book a visit, contact below: 01628 594300 registrar@stpirans.co.uk www.stpirans.co.uk The Riverside Day Nursery Clewer Mead, Stovell Road, Windsor, SL4 5JB To book a visit, contact below: 01753 855543 info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk Upton House School Windsor 115 St Leonard’s Road, Windsor SL4 3DF Tuesday 6 October Saturday 14 November To book a visit, contact below: registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk 01753 862610 www.uptonhouse.org.uk/admissions/ virtual-open-mornings

Woodlands Park Primary & Nursery School Heywood Ave, Woodlands Park, Maidenhead, SL6 3JB Wednesday 23 September Friday 20 November Heathfield School Monkey Puzzle Nursery Friday 8 January 2027 Any changes need to be made at this stage. T: 07867 London Road, Ascot, SL5 8BQ Maidenhead, SL6 1ES 2pm514138 / 07753 414605 Any further amendments will be charged for. To book a visit, contact below: Friday 11 September Tuesday 29 September E: editor@familiestveast.co.uk Tuesday 29 September 07762 252755 Tuesday 13 October Little Tuesday People Media, 29 Furrow Way, Fridaycontact 2 October manager@monkeypuzzlemaidenhead. Please us by return either to amend or approve your 17 November Tuesday 13 October co.uk TuesdaySL6 1 December advertisement. Maidenhead 3 NY Friday 20 November www.monkeypuzzlemaidenhead.co.uk 9.15am Tuesday 1 December Wednesday 21 October 11am-12.30pm St George’s School Windsor Castle 5pm Tuesday 29 September (Sixth Form) Datchet Road, Windsor, SL4 1QF To book a visit, contact below: 6-8pm Saturday 3 October 01628 822350 To book a visit, contact below: 10:30am-12:30pm office@woodlandsparkschool.org 01344 898342 To book a visit, contact below: www.woodlandsparkschool.co.uk admissions@heathfieldschool.net 01753 865553 www.heathfieldschool.net enquiries@stgwindsor.org www.stgwindsor.org

4.30-5.30pm To book a visit, contact below: To book a visit, contact below: 01753 537789 Please CHECK ALL INFORMATION IS CORRECT especially 01753 517359 admissions@longcloseschool.co.uk www.groveacademy.co.uk dates, telephone numbers and addresses. www.longcloseschool.co.uk

Thames Valley East

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

Open 51 weeks a year – Accepts 30 hours funding – Highly trained team Come and look around today: Call: 01753 855543 or email: info@theriversidedaynursery.co.uk www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk 8

Families Thames Valley East

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EDUCATION

Meet Matt Robinson, Headteacher at Upton House School In this issue Families talks to Matt Robinson, the new head of Upton House School, an independent Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School for boys and girls aged 2 to 11 years which is located in Windsor. Tell us a bit about yourself and your role? I’m a married man with four children aged 18-23, three girls and a boy, and we have a dog called Hugo who comes into school regularly. I have worked at a number of tied and standalone prep schools over my career: Cranleigh Prep, King’s College Wimbledon Junior, Junior King’s Canterbury, The City of London Freemen’s School, Greenfield and now Upton House, which is my third headship. My main subject was English, but I have taught years of Latin, humanities and sport, which I still play myself. An opening batsman and a reasonable golfer, my football days are behind me! My role is to lead Upton House. In the first instance I will get to know the community, particularly the children, and understand further what makes this such a lovely school. I look forward to developing the education and pastoral support that the children receive, whilst maintaining the school’s important traditions. How would you describe the ethos at Upton House School? Upton is inclusive and kind, while ambitious and encouraging. The children are delightfully polite and considerate, but strive to be the best they can be in whatever they are engaged in. The staff and parent body work together for everyone’s benefit. What are the most rewarding aspects of your work? Standing at the school’s entrance every morning greeting and welcoming the families and staff, in whatever Windsor weather we meet is a splendid start to each day. That already some children have bounded up to me to share something that they’ve seen or done is hugely gratifying. Hearing laughter in schools is always rewarding. What are the qualities of a great teacher? Challenge, empathy, organisation, consistency, creativity… and genuine kindness. Education has broadly looked the same for many years. What do you see as important factors to change? We have to rebalance the use of the screens in children’s learning, ensuring that any computer based activity is worthwhile and genuinely productive. Furthermore, children’s approach to their

environment (and not just the outdoors) needs to be a focus. Are they engaged with all their senses, and are they considering everybody else? Do you have any top tips for parents when they are considering a school for their child? Do your research but make it personal. Ask the school to put you in touch with some existing parents; don’t trust online reviews. When you visit, and you should, bear in mind that your decision should be a heart and mind one. Do the children that you meet give you confidence that they are safe and challenged and supported? Happiness is less important than contentment. Do you believe that the staff and leadership will support your child and you when problems arise, which they always do! Will your child and you thrive? What’s your approach to SEN? Schools should work extremely hard to support and challenge every individual child, with whatever needs they have, whether they be academic, social, pastoral or SEN. Having a professional and experienced SEN team ensures that children, teachers and parents are given the advice, direction and care that they all need, for the benefit of the children. We all learn different things in different ways and SEN departments are experts at recognising that and providing purposeful techniques, strategies and care. SEN should be an integral part of every school’s provision.

Sign up for an Open Morning on Tuesday 6 October or Saturday 14 November, or alternatively book a personal tour to meet Matt Robinson and find out how your child can thrive at Upton House School. 01753 862610 registrar@uptonhouse.org.uk www.uptonhouse.org.uk editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

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Little Upton Nursery & Upton House School The Jewel in Windsor’s Crown

Open Mornings

9.30am Tuesday 6th October 2026 9.30am Saturday 14th November 2026 Book your place: Registrar@UptonHouse.org.uk

Inspiring Future Leaders

WHOLE SCHOOL OPEN MORNINGS Friday 25th September Friday 20th November admissions@longcloseschool.co.uk 10 Families Thames Valley East

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EDUCATION

She means business Inspired by a desire to see children thrive when given the chance to learn at their own pace, and not often possible to facilitate in a busy classroom environment, teacher Hayley launched a tutoring business that aims to cater for each child’s individual educational needs. Offering expert, tailored provision for primary school children, Pathways Tutoring provides both small group and 1-1 sessions to build confidence and help master key concepts. Who are you and where are you based? I’m Hayley, the founder of Pathways Tutoring, and we are based in Marlow in Buckinghamshire, providing high-quality, personalised education. As a passionate educator, my goal has always been to make learning accessible, engaging, and tailored to every individual student's needs. Tell us a bit about the business? Pathways Tutoring offers tailored educational support to help students build confidence, close learning gaps, and achieve their academic potential. We cover a wide range of subjects and age groups, focusing not just on rote memorisation, but on understanding core concepts and developing lifelong study habits. We believe every student has a unique learning style, so we customise our approach to fit the individual, whether they need help catching up, preparing for exams, or seeking an extra academic challenge. What did you use to do? Did you change career to do this? Before launching Pathways Tutoring, I worked directly in education as a qualified teacher and still do. This hands-on classroom experience is invaluable, giving me deep insight into the school curriculum, exam board requirements, and the diverse challenges students face in a traditional classroom setting. As a teacher I recognise how tuition can focus entirely on the impactful, one-on-one teaching that truly makes a difference.

What inspired you to set up the business? My inspiration came from seeing how easily children can get left behind in a busy classroom. Teachers do incredible work, but with 30-plus students in a room, it is virtually impossible to give every child the bespoke support they need. I wanted to create a service that bridges this gap. I wanted to build a business where we could slow down, focus on a student’s specific stumbling blocks, and celebrate those "aha!' moments when a difficult concept finally clicks. Seeing a child's confidence transform is the most rewarding feeling and I wanted to build a business centered entirely on that transformation. What have you learnt along the way? I’ve learnt that running a business requires wearing many different hats. I went from being solely an educator to a marketer, accountant, administrator, and strategist overnight. It has been a steep but incredibly rewarding learning curve. On a personal level, I’ve learnt the importance of adaptability. Every student, parent, and tutor we work with brings a different dynamic, and being able to listen actively and adjust our services to meet those diverse needs has been the key to our growth. What are your plans for the future? Our main goal is to expand our reach so we can support even more students, particularly by growing our team of

GIVEAWAY

Ages 18mths+

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My advice is to trust your expertise and don't be afraid to start small. You don't need to have everything perfectly figured out on day one; clarity comes through action. Surround yourself with a supportive network of other entrepreneurs, ask for help when you need it, and never underestimate the value of the unique perspective and empathy you bring to your industry.

For more information visit www.pathwaystutoring.uk or contact Hayley on 07438 704306.

We cover: KS2 SATS 11+ KS1 Phonics

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What would your advice be to other business women?

Why Pathways?

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passionate, high-quality tutors who share our core values. We want to continue developing our tutoring provisions to make expert education accessible to families regardless of their geographical location. Ultimately, I want Pathways Tutoring to be recognised as the go-to provider for trusted, empathetic, and highly effective educational support.

Contact Us

T&Cs apply

@pathwaystutoring.uk

www.pathwaystutoring.uk

pathwaystutoring.uk

07438704306

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11

EDUCATION

A smooth transition from the EYFS to Year 1 By Michelle Elliott and Chloe Willis Now that your child has finished Reception and is settling into Year 1, you might notice some changes in expectations from their school, as well as changes in your child’s daily routine and (most likely) in their mood! Year 1 teaching naturally shifts from the mostly play-based approach of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) towards the more formal structure of the National Curriculum. While schools are experts in managing this phased progression, it can still be a tricky move for your child. The most noticeable change in the first few weeks will likely be the classroom itself. In Reception, your child will have been used to continuous provision, both indoors and outdoors, where they explored and learnt through play, alongside short adultled sessions such as phonics. In Year 1, tables and chairs are arranged for more focused, adult-led learning sessions, though many classrooms still allow for children to choose their own learning tasks at certain times of the school day. If your child is finding this change difficult, it might be worth talking to their teacher to get more of an idea about the classroom set up and daily routines. If your child is having problems settling during their first few weeks, the most important thing is to keep talking to them about the changes they are experiencing. Focus on supporting their independence, concentration and listening skills - the real foundations for a happy transition. Continue to build these skills at home through fun activities that require short bursts of attention, such as puzzles, colouring or enjoying a story together.

A Prep School where happiness gets results

You can also support your child’s sense of responsibility by encouraging them to take on small, manageable tasks, like helping to pack their school bag or tidying their toys, which will really help them find their feet as they navigate these early days of Year 1. Remember to make time to truly listen to your child too. Giving them space to share their feelings and then simply acknowledging those feelings, provides vital comfort and security during this time of change. Finally, approach the move into Year 1 as an exciting new adventure! Highlight all the wonderful things they are doing, the new experiences they are sharing and the fun activities they are engaging with. Your positive attitude will be the greatest influence on theirs. Michelle Elliott and Chloe Willis are from Twinkl (www.twinkl.co.uk) which offers parents a vast library of teacher-created, curriculum-aligned resources to support home learning, development and family wellbeing for children ages 0 to 11.

Supporting your child with the transition Resist asking lots of questions straight after school. Children often need time to decompress after a busy day of listening and learning. Model talking about your own day. This can encourage your child to open up about theirs. Use a visual timetable. With new routines come a big adjustment; going through each day’s plan can be really helpful in settling in. Bring snacks. When you pick up your child, having a small snack to hand will replenish their energy and boost their mood.

Join us for our Open Morning on Friday 2 October 2026 Just minutes from Sunningdale, Chobham and Windlesham. GU24 8TE

www.coworthflexlands.co.uk

12 Families Thames Valley East

Enjoy family board games. These help your child concentrate for a sustained period of time, follow instructions and practise communication skills, all of which will help them through Year 1. Stick to a consistent bedtime routine. Having this structure will help your child get the rest they need to deal with the transition. Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

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Families Thames Valley East 13

EDUCATION

How sport and education can work together By Dennis J Smith (M.Ed) Back to school and to the excitement of a new school year. New teachers, new classrooms, new friendships and new opportunities can all help create a sense of anticipation. While some children may feel a little nervous, many are also eager to return to familiar routines and activities. For parents, the start of a new term is often a good time to think about how children can enjoy a healthy balance between education, sport and family life. Over many years of working with young people, I have seen how participation in sport can often support progress in school. Children who take part in football, swimming, tennis, rugby, athletics, dance or other activities frequently develop qualities that can also help them in the classroom. Sport encourages perseverance, concentration, self-discipline and resilience. Young people learn that improvement usually comes through regular effort rather than instant success. They discover how to cope with setbacks, learn from mistakes and keep trying when things become challenging. These are valuable lessons both on the sports field and in school. However, balance remains important. Children benefit most when sport is enjoyable rather than becoming another source of pressure. Not every child wishes to become a champion and that is perfectly acceptable. The real value often lies in participation, friendship, enjoyment and personal development.

The same principle applies to education. While academic progress matters, children should not feel that their worth depends entirely on test scores or examination results. Confidence often grows when parents focus on effort, attitude and gradual improvement rather than constant comparison with others. As the new school year gets going, parents can help by encouraging positive routines. Regular sleep, healthy meals, reading, outdoor activity and organised preparation for the school day all contribute to a calmer and more successful start. Most importantly, children benefit from knowing that home is a place of encouragement and support. A simple conversation after school, showing interest in what they enjoyed, learned or experienced during the day, can sometimes be more valuable than focusing solely on performance. A new school term offers a fresh opportunity for children to grow in confidence, develop new skills and enjoy new experiences. When education, sport and family support work together, young people are often able to achieve their potential while maintaining a healthy sense of balance and wellbeing.

Keeping life balanced during term time

Helping young athletes build lasting confidence

Whilst education is important, children benefit most when school remains part of a balanced and enjoyable life. As a new term begins, families can sometimes focus heavily on homework, tests and academic progress. However, children often achieve more when learning is balanced with activities that support confidence, wellbeing and happiness.

Confidence is one of the greatest gifts that sport can offer a child but it rarely develops overnight. Instead, it grows gradually through positive experiences, encouragement and learning how to cope with challenges.

Sport, creative arts and hobbies help children develop resilience, self-discipline and social skills. Family visits to local libraries, walks in parks and the countryside and relaxing with friends also contribute positively to a child’s development. Don’t let schoolwork dominate every conversation at home. Children need opportunities to switch off, recharge and enjoy themselves. A balanced lifestyle often improves concentration, motivation and emotional wellbeing. Every child is different. Some enjoy competitive sport, whilst others prefer reading, creative activities or spending time outdoors. The key is helping children maintain interests that support confidence, happiness and healthy development alongside their educational progress. 14 Families Thames Valley East

Parents play a vital role in this process. Children often judge their own performance through the reactions of the adults around them. A supportive comment after a match, race or competition can have a lasting impact. Statements such as: ‘I enjoyed watching you play’ or ‘I loved your effort today’ help children feel valued regardless of the result. Mistakes are also an important part of development. Every athlete experiences setbacks, disappointments and periods when progress feels slow. Children who learn that mistakes are opportunities to improve are more likely to persevere and remain motivated. Rather than focusing solely on winning, parents can encourage effort, commitment, learning and enjoyment. When children feel accepted whether they succeed or struggle, they develop confidence that extends beyond sport, school, friendships and everyday life too. Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Families Thames Valley East 15

PARENTING

Conversation hacks to use with your preteen or teen By Margaret Ward- Martin As parents, we will all face the unique challenges of raising preteens and teenagers. With their hormonal brains, adolescents are biologically programmed to be wind-up machines but this is not personal. They need to push you to the limits to see if you will still love them after all. The pressures of parenting at this stage can be overwhelming but understanding your child better can help navigate these turbulent years. We need to talk about... talking. Communication is key to understanding and engaging with your child and there are ways to achieve this. Avoid saying ‘we need to talk.’ Sounds like a set up. Let talking happen organically. Often your child/teenager will invite a discussion: ‘We were talking about vapes at school today.’ Whether you explore it immediately or absolutely promise to do so later, not picking up the cue might result in your child simply not bothering to come to you to talk about the things they consider important. Be active and curious. Walking the dog, doing the school run or cooking together are effective opportunities for teenage conversations. Stuff comes up – it just does. Let it happen. Ask to know more. You’ll be surprised what you learn. Listen. You don’t always need to talk. Let them say what they need, trying not to interrupt. Hold your reaction to alarming revelations with: ‘Thanks for the chat, I need time to think about what you’ve said.’ No judgement, no shock or jumping in with a fix. You want your child to feel safe in that moment. You can panic later. Stand firm. It’s okay to tell your child that whilst you love them, at times you do not like their attitude or behaviour. If you disagree with their choices, say so. Holding a boundary serves as a reminder that they are loved. From a strong base, your teens will learn to make their own way in the world, where they make mistakes but are able to dust themselves down and pick themselves up.

Regulate your own emotions. Keep your own stresses out of the conversation; hearing your child out is more important. If you get anxious, acknowledge it and take a deep breath. Try: ‘Tell me more,’ ‘Do you need me to listen or make suggestions?’ ‘What has made you think that?’ ‘Help me to understand,’ ‘Is there anything else you need to tell me?’ ‘We can agree to disagree’ or ‘I need a break.’ Apologise. The way you apologise teaches them how to do it. When you need to, be specific - ‘I’m really sorry I was late, I can only imagine how worried you were. I’m sorry.’ Apologies have three parts - saying sorry, making amends where possible and not repeating the behaviour. Take responsibility, own your part and set a good example. Hang in there. Look after yourself and remember to laugh. Take the responsibility of parenting seriously but accept that it is messy, unpredictable, exhausting, expensive and frustrating, with pockets of comic relief bringing breaths of fresh air. It’s not an exact science getting children to the independent stage, so settle for feeling out of control at times, learning to respond rather than react and appreciate the small wins. Above all, remember that the tough times pass and that your children will grow and fly and, if you’re lucky, come back for the holidays. Margaret Ward-Martin is a counsellor for sufferers of narcissistic abuse and founder of The Grace Project (www.thegraceproject.co.uk)

Be honest

How else do we raise adults if we are not honest about what is realistic for us? If a big expenditure is not affordable, explain it calmly and clearly. Be honest about your concerns about their friends, lifestyle choices or influences that you believe to be harmful. Give your children credit for understanding and cultivate resilience. If they push back, reassert to your child that their safety is the most important thing to you and in this instance, their wellbeing is more important than your popularity.

16 Families Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

PARENTING

Using anchoring to calm anxiety By Christopher Paul Jones Anxiety has become incredibly prevalent. Children can suffer anxiety about going back to school; parents can suffer anxiety about their child’s development and societal expectations can be an issue for everyone. But very few people really understand how anxiety works, what causes it or indeed how to change it.   Understand what anxiety actually is One of the biggest misconceptions about anxiety is that it is about character; if sufferers were just braver, stronger or more confident, they wouldn’t feel it. But anxiety is much more often a learned reflex. A conditioned response. Trying to think your way out of it often doesn’t help because emotions don’t follow logic. Anxiety can be handled One of the quickest and most useful tools I’ve come across is something called anchoring, a technique that creates a conditioned association between a specific internal emotional state and an external stimulus (such as a touch). Anchoring gives us something incredibly valuable - the sense that we can start reclaiming control. How to anchor Think of a time when you felt very relaxed. Go fully to that time. See what you saw. Hear what you heard. Feel what you felt. At the peak of that feeling, squeeze your thumb and forefinger together. Hold that for as long as you can stay in that feeling. The second the feeling begins to fade, let go.

Now do it again, thinking of a time when you felt very loving or connected. Repeat other positive emotions: a time you couldn’t stop laughing; a time when you felt very confident or very safe. Now test it. Clear your mind for a moment. Then squeeze your fingers together in exactly the same way, with the same pressure. This should start sending you back to those positive emotions. Whenever you start to feel anxious, squeeze your fingers together in exactly the same way and fire off positive emotions. If the anchor is strong enough, it should take out or at least neutralise much of the negative emotional charge. Christopher Paul Jones is a leading Harley Street phobia expert who combines mainstream psychology and cutting-edge techniques which aim to change the mind’s danger response. He is author of Face your Fears – 7 Steps to Conquering Phobias and Anxiety. More at www.christopherpauljones. com

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Anxiety vs phobia Anxiety and phobia are often used interchangeably but the key differences are important. Phobias tend to be tied to a very specific trigger. The time you were chased by a dog. The turbulent flight that frightened you. The moment you were forced to get up and speak in class and everyone laughed. The brain links one thing to one fear response. Anxiety, however, is often more of a prolonged sense of unease. It can come from growing up with anxious parents, moving around a lot, being bullied at school or going through a prolonged period of stress at work or at school. Rather than one very clear moment, it’s often a longer period of not feeling safe, supported or in control. And what then happens is that instead of flying = fear or dogs = fear, the mind starts to generalise. Anything out of your comfort zone, anything slightly uncertain, anything that feels even vaguely unpredictable can begin to trigger that same emotional response.

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

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Families Thames Valley East 17

EDUCATION BOOK CLUB Author and illustrator Beach is arguably best well known for his A Very Fiery Fairy Tale picture book series which is full of chaotic humour. His new young fiction series, Class Pets, follows suit - expect eye catching illustrations and laugh out loud moments. Rachel Bailey talks to him about the importance of reading whatever makes you happy, comic books vs graphic novels and his best score on Wordle. children and a graphic novel when I'm talking to my publisher. Personally, I prefer the term 'comic book'. A 'graphic novel' always sounds to me like something serious and brooding, probably involving an existential crisis on a windswept moor somewhere.

a stack of funny titles and left them lying around the house. My son resisted for a few weeks but eventually picked one up and peeked inside. Then I heard him laugh and I knew we were away.

Where do you get your inspiration from? Would you have liked a snake to eat your headteacher?

Class Pets is perfect for Bunny vs Monkey or Dog Man fans. What is it that makes these types of books so popular with readers? They’re really well written! As soon as you read a Dogman or a Bunny vs Monkey you realise why they are so successful – they are just brilliantly inventive and entertaining books. You’ve written and illustrated a number of successful picture books. Is this new series your first step towards writing for older readers or is it the format that appeals to you? To be honest, I just make the silliest, funniest book I can. And then I let the publisher worry about the age of the readers. But please don't tell them that.

What’s the difference between a comic book and a graphic novel and where does Class Pets sit? I think they're the same thing. I call Class Pets a comic book when I'm talking to

I find most of my ideas in the bins outside other authors' houses. It's got a lot harder since people started buying home shredders but I'm very patient (and have a lot of sellotape).

My younger son was a reluctant reader until a very wonderful teacher slowly drip fed him books that she thought might resonate. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a Mrs. Ashby in their life however, so what would your advice be for parents trying to foster a love of reading?

What’s your first love – writing or illustrating? I used to think I was an illustrator pretending to be a writer. But then I wondered if I was actually a writer pretending to be an illustrator. Now I realise I'm just pretending.

Have you ever scored an Ace on Wordle? Yes! And I've even convinced myself there was some skill involved as I was hesitating between two words – drift and draft – and ended up picking the right one :) Call me a daredevil but I do like to start with a new word each time I play. Class Pets: Snack Attack! is available from end of August priced £9.99. www.beachy.org

Comic books cracked it for me. I bought

Giveaway! For your chance to win a copy, all you have to do is answer the question below and email your answer to editor@familiestveast.co.uk What is the name of Beach’s new series? A) Class Mascots B) Class Pets C) Class Pests Closing date for entries is 30 September 2026.

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Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

SEASONAL

Become an autumn detective: solving nature mysteries Autumn leaves clues everywhere. A chewed acorn beneath a tree. A seed spinning on the wind. A cluster of berries shining among the leaves. Trees are preparing for winter, animals are gathering food and hidden communities are working beneath our feet. This autumn, take a notebook outside and become a nature detective. Your job is to follow clues, ask questions and uncover the hidden stories of the season.

THE TREE THAT LET GO

THE TRAVELLING SEED

Collect three fallen leaves in different colours and compare their veins, edges and textures.

Search for seeds with wings, parachutes or other unusual shapes. Some spin on the wind, others hitchhike on passing animals or are carried inside fruit.

A tree spends all summer growing its leaves, then in autumn they fall. Before it does, it recovers valuable nutrients stored inside them, including sugars and nitrogen. What you could find: leaves from trees like oak, beech, maple What advantages might a bare tree have during winter?

Drop a few different seeds and watch how they fall. Do they tumble, spin or float? What you could find: sycamore seeds with wings, burdock seeds with hooks and burrs

THE BERRY ADVERTISEMENT

THE ANIMAL NOBODY SAW

Bright berries appear on hedges, shrubs and some trees in autumn. Why would a plant make its fruits so easy to see?

Something visited before you arrived but you just missed it. Scavenge the undergrowth for chewed pine cones, empty acorn cups or cracked nutshells. Scientists learn much about animals from the evidence they leave behind.

Notice which berries stand out most clearly against the leaves around them. Birds often swallow berries whole and carry the seeds away inside them, dropping them somewhere new. What you could find: blackberries on bushes and rowan berries on trees What do you think the plant gets out of that arrangement?

THE MUSHROOM THAT APPEARED OVERNIGHT Search for fungi growing on logs, tree stumps or among fallen leaves, and compare their shapes and colours. The mushroom is only part of the fungus, the fruit; most of the fungus may be hidden underground or within wood, sometimes spanning an area larger than a football pitch. What could you find: fly agaric, oyster mushrooms, turkey tail fungi and inky caps… but remember: look, DON’T TOUCH, as some fungi are poisonous.

If you could see beneath the surface of the field, how large do you think the hidden part might be?

What could you find: feathers, pine cones and nuts that have been gnawed on, paw prints in the mud

What do your clues suggest about what happened here?

THE CITY UNDER THE LEAVES Choose a small patch of leaf litter and carefully look underneath. Worms, woodlice, beetles and millipedes may all be working together to break down dead plant material and return nutrients to the soil. Without them, fallen leaves would simply accumulate and the nutrients locked inside them would never be released. What could you find: worms, woodlice, small beetles, millipedes

How many different residents can you find in one patch?

Every clue tells part of a larger story. Leaves fall and release nutrients, seeds disperse, berries draw in birds, fungi thread through the soil and tiny creatures work beneath the leaf litter. The season that looks like an ending is actually a very busy beginning. Written and illustrated by Ria Mishaal, owner of Curiosity Companions (www.curiositycompanions.com) which offers nature education subscriptions for ages 4 to 12.

editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Families Thames Valley East 19

FREE PUMPKIN

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Get ready for a spectacular October adventure at our Pumpkin Festival! Enjoy pumpkin carving, tractor and trailer rides, and endless indoor and outdoor play throughout October. Then, during Half Term, don’t miss our spook-tacular Monster Mash Bash Live Show! Open every weekend in October plus every day throughout Half Term.

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20 Families Thames Valley East

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

VISIT WHAT'S TO VISIT ON

Your family guide to

What's On Ongoing Rhyme Time at Windsor Library Mondays in Sep and Oct Term time only - story fun Windsor Library, Royal Free Court, 9 Bachelors Acre SL4 1ER www.rbwm.gov.uk Bardo Lounge Quiz Night at Maidenhead Tuesdays in Sep and Oct Pop along to Quiz night at 7pm. High Street, Maidenhead, SL6 1BX https://waterside-quarter.co.uk/Locations/ bardo-lounge Active Bounce and Play at Wycombe Leisure Centre Tuesdays and Thursday in Sep and Oct Under 8s. Sessions are 9.30am, 10.30am and 11.30am (SEN). Pre-book. Wycombe Leisure Centre, Handy Cross, High Wycombe HP11 1UP www.placesleisure.org/centres/wycombeleisure-centre Rhyme Time at Reading Museum Wednesdays in Sep and Oct Songs and signing for babies and toddlers. 10.30am-11am. Drop in for free. Reading Museum, Reading, RG1 1QH www.readingmuseum.org.uk Rhyme Time at Maidenhead Library Thursdays in Sep and Oct Term time only - story fun Maidenhead Library, St Ives Road SL6 1QU www.rbwm.gov.uk Bumps to Tots Breakfast Club Fridays in Sep and Oct Relaxed weekly meet-up for expectant parents, new parents and little ones, with weekly guest speakers. 10am-12pm. Other Space Arts, Kardelton House, Vansittart Estate, Windsor SL4 1SE www.otherspacearts.com Silent Book Club Fridays in Sep and Oct Bring a book and enjoy some peace from 7.308.30pm Cocoba Chocolate Café, 2B High Street, Maidenhead, SL6 1QJ www.waterside-quarter.co.uk/Events/silentbook-club-at-cocoba Roller Disco at Braywick Leisure Centre Saturdays in Sep and Oct Scoot and Skate: 3pm-4pm (Beginners) Family and Friends Roller Disco: Early Session: 4:15pm-5:15pm Late Session: 5.30pm-7:30pm Braywick Leisure Centre, Maidenhead, SL6 1BN www.leisurefocus.org.uk Children’s Art Classes at Art Classes Group Limited Saturdays in Sep and Oct Get creative with colours and shapes in this fun painting and drawing class for kids aged 5+. 12-6pm Art Classes Group Limited, Slough SL1 1LN https://bit.ly/4vH1LnK

September Circus Cortex at Higginson Park Thu 3-Sun 6 Sep This is no ordinary circus. BIZZZAR is a wild, high voltage mash up of comedy chaos, jaw dropping stunts, and kaleidoscopic visuals that burst across the stage like a firework finale Higginson Park, Pound Lane, Marlow SL7 2AE https://tickets.circuscortex.com/events/ circuscortex/2264317 Conquer the Tower Tour at Windsor Castle Thu 3-Mon 28 Sep Climb the 200 steps to the top of Windsor Castle's Round Tower and enjoy breath-taking views across the historic Windsor parkland, the Thames Valley and London skyline. Castle is closed Tue and Wed. Windsor Castle, Castle Hill, Windsor SL4 1NJ www.rct.uk/event/windsor-castle-andconquer-the-tower-tour-08-2026 Tiny Talk Time at Wycombe Museum Fri 4 and Fri 18 Sep Stories, crafts and museum fun in this special time for 2–5 year olds Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, HP13 6PX www.wycombemuseum.org.uk/events/tinytalk-time-45 Open Day at Cumberland Lodge Sat 5 Sep Tours run between 11am and 4pm and each ticket includes a boutique afternoon tea. Cumberland Lodge, The Great Park, Windsor SL4 2HP www.windsor.gov.uk/whats-on/open-day-atcumberland-lodge-p2885441 Cookham Regatta Sat 5 Sep Dragon Boat Racing, Dog Show and Classic Car Displays plus supporting attractions including food and drink stalls Cookham Moor, The Pound SL6 9SB www.cookhamregatta.org.uk Night Market at Norden Farm Sat 5 Sep Food and art and craft stalls and music Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF www.nordenfarm.org Bray Village Fête Sun 6 Sep A Celebration of Community, Culture & Local Life. 11am–5pm in the heart of Bray for a day of music, food, family fun, and village tradition Bray Village Green and Jubilee Field SL6 2AD www.brayvillagefete.co.uk

Lifelong Learning: Bat Walk at Woolley Firs Thu 10 Sep Talk for adults followed by a gentle walk around the reserve, using specialist equipment to detect local bats Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events Playtime Playgroup at St John’s Church Egham Fri 11 Sep Playtime for under 5s and carers. Term time Fridays 9.30-11.15am St John’s Church, Manor Farm Lane, Egham, TW20 9HR www.stjohnsegham.com/playtime Maidenhead Waterways Funday at Chapel Arches Sat 12 Sep Boat rides, entertainment, stalls and food. 10am-3pm Waterside Quarter, Maidenhead SL6 1QG www.waterside-quarter.co.uk/whats-on Cookham and Maidenhead Arts Trail Sat 12 and Sun 13 Sep Chance to view art at local venues and homes. Free entry. Various Venues, Cookham and Maidenhead www.camat.org.uk Medieval Jousting Weekend at Dinton Pastures Sat 12 and Sun 13 Sep Step back in to days of old, with food, crafts and entertainment Dinton Pastures Country Park, Davis St, Hurst, RG10 0TH www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/events Holyport Village Show at Holyport Sun 13 Sep Arts & crafts, baking and more War Memorial Hall, Money Row Green SL6 2NA www.holyportvillageshow.wordpress.com Thames Hospice Sunflower Walk Sun 13 Sep Bring your friends, family and everyone you know and walk either a breezy 2.5k, a more challenging 10k or the half marathon hike. Registration from 8.30am (10.30am for 2.5k) Thames Hospice, Windsor Road, SL6 2DN www.thameshospice.org.uk/sunflower-walk

Please email editor@familiestveast.co.uk with any events. Event times and dates do change, please try and check that an event is still going ahead before you head out. editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

Families Thames Valley East 21

WHAT'S ON The Gravity Grand Prix at Cookham Dean Sun 13 Sep Annual downhill race where speed, creativity, and pure gravity collide in spectacular fashion! From Midday. Main Carpark Off-Bigfrith Lane, Cookham Dean SL6 9PS www.gravitygrandprix.co.uk Wonderland Tea at The Story Museum Sun 13 Sep and Sun 11 Oct Enjoy a luxury Alice themed afternoon tea in the Alice room! The Story Museum, Oxford, OX1 1BP www.storymuseum.org.uk Storytime in the cafe at Dinton Pastures Activity Centre Tue 15 Sep Join the coffee Deck for a delightful short story 10:30-11am. Sandford Lane, Hurst, Wokingham, RG10 0SU www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/events Windsor Autumn Festival Fri 18 Sep-Sun 11 Oct Musicians, writers, artists and local performers entertain. Look out for shows aimed at families and children. Various Venues, Windsor. https://windsorfestival.com/autumn-festival Nature Tots at Woolley Firs Fri 18 and Mon 21 Sep Toddlers’ and guardians’ activity club for children aged 18 months to 5 years. 10am-11.30am Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events Illuminated Boat Parade, Henley-uponThames Sat 19 Sep Watch the parade from the tow path from Leander Rowing Club downstream to Phyllis Court. Free for spectators from 7.30pm. Leander Rowing Club, Henley-upon-Thames, RG9 2LP www.illuminatedparade.com

Toddler Days at The Lookout Discovery Centre Thu 24 and Fri 25 Sep Toddler days for up to 5 year olds. Theme: Robots. The Lookout Discovery Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7QW www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisure-andevents/look-out-discovery-centre/toddlerdays

Windsor Fringe Fri 25 Sep-Sat 17 Oct An innovative and affordable programme of music, dance, comedy, drama and art in Windsor. Various Venues, Windsor www.windsorfringe.co.uk

Toddler Days at The Lookout Discovery Centre Thu 15 and Fri 16 Oct Toddler days for up to 5 year olds Theme: Nature The Lookout Discovery Centre, Bracknell, RG12 7QW www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisure-andevents/look-out-discovery-centre/toddlerdays

Saturday Rangers Club at Woolley Firs Sat 26 Sep Young Rangers 8-11 years 10am-12pm and Teen Rangers 11-17 years 1-3pm Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Nature Tots at Woolley Firs Fri 16 and Mon 19 Oct Toddlers’ and guardians’ activity club for children aged 18 months to 5 years. 10am-11.30am Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Eton Action Fair 2026 at Eton College Sat 26 Sep A Community Celebration Supporting Local and Global Charities 11.00am-4.00pm The fair transforms the College into a lively festival of games, performances, food and fundraising for all the family. Eton College Grounds, Windsor SL4 6DW www.etoncollege.com/eton-outwards/etonaction/eton-action-fair

Lifelong Learning: Fungi Foray at Woolley Firs Sat 17 Oct Session for adults - stroll through the reserve together with a renowned mycologist to appreciate the beauty and diversity of fungi. Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events

The Turtle Who Turned the Tide at The Old Court Sat 19 Sep Professional storyteller Liz Fost, tells the tale to 4-8 year olds. 10.00am. The Old Court, Windsor, SL4 3BL www.windsorfestival.com/autumn-festival

PYO Pumpkins at Lower Mount Farm, Cookham From 1 Oct (exact date tbc) Select your own pumpkin from the fruitfields! See website for voucher and date information. Lower Mount Farm, Cookham, SL6 9RF www.thefruitfields.co.uk/pumpkins

National Brick Event at Windsor Leisure Centre Sun 20 Sep Event for EVERY LEGO fan. With stalls selling rare and long retired LEGO sets, the latest releases, dedicated minifigure stalls and a play area where you can sit and play with hundreds of LEGO bricks. Windsor Leisure Centre, Clewer Mead, Windsor, SL4 5JB www.nationalbrickevents.co.uk/event/windsor

Tiny Talk Time at Wycombe Museum Fri 2 and Fri 16 Oct Stories, crafts and museum fun in this special time for 2–5 year olds Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, HP13 6PX www.wycombemuseum.org.uk/events/tinytalk-time-45

22 Families Thames Valley East

Hallo’Welly’Ween Fri 23-Sat 31 Oct Enjoy a week bursting with enchanted Halloween fun, packed with activities for all ages. Wellington Country Park, Riseley RG7 1SP www.wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk

Alice in Wonderland at The Old Court Sat 26 Sep The Let's All Dance Ballet Company is back with this fabulous family favourite. 3.00pm. The Old Court, St Leonard's Road, Windsor, SL4 3BL www.windsorfestival.com/autumn-festival

October

The Famous Five at The Old Court Sun 20 Sep Bestselling author Chris Smith presents this exciting interactive experience aimed at children aged 7-11 years old. 3pm. The Old Court, Windsor, SL4 3BL www.windsorfestival.com/autumn-festival

Celebrate 100 years of Winnie the Pooh at Bekonscot Wed 14 Oct Children go free if they bring a teddy! The venue is also offering a picnic box tea in the tearoom and storytelling in the Ed Shed. Bekonscot Model Village and Railway, Warwick Road, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 2PL www.bekonscot.co.uk/seasonal-events

Lifelong Learning: Autumn Gel Painting Workshop at Woolley Firs Fri 25 Sep Session for adults and suitable for both beginners and those with experience. Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Battle of the Bands at Maidenhead Festival Sat 19 Sep Prepare yourself for an electrifying night that champions the incredible local talent Berkshire has to offer. Maidenhead United Reform Hall SL6 1RL www.mheadfestival.weebly.com/battle-of-thebands.html

Roald Dahl Ramble: Fantastic Mr Fox at The Roald Dahl Museum Sun 20 Sep Ramble at 11.30am or 2.00pm. Includes refreshments and museum entrance. Great Missenden, Bucks, HP16 0AL www.roalddahlmuseum.org/event/fantasticmr-fox

Saturday Rangers Club at Woolley Firs Sat 10 Oct Young Rangers 8-11 years 10am-12pm Teen Rangers 11-17 years 1-3pm Woolley Firs Environmental Education Centre, Cherry Garden Lane, SL6 3LJ www.bbowt.org.uk/events

Pumpkin Hunt at Bekonscot Model Village and Railway Sat 24 Oct- Sun 1 Nov Find all the pumpkins hidden around the model village and win a prize. Bekonscot Model Village and Railway, HP9 2PL www.bekonscot.co.uk JL Events Halloween Fun Day at Dinton Pastures Sun 25 Oct Halloween fun and games for the whole family. Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst, RG10 0TH www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/events

The Pumpkin Festival at Odds Farm Park Sat 3 Oct-Sun 1 Nov More than 15,000 pumpkins will be ready for picking on select dates and through the half term holiday. Children will receive a pumpkin with admission. Sunset Sessions for older children run on Sat 10 Oct and Sat 24 Oct from 6pm. Adults Night Fri 16 Oct. Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX www.oddsfarm.co.uk Peter Pan Drone Show at Royal Windsor Racecourse Sat 3 Oct Join Peter Pan, Wendy, and Tinker Bell as they light up the night sky. Doors open 3.00pm, show at 6.45pm Windsor Racecourse, Windsor SL4 5JJ www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk/whats-on/ peter-pan-drone-show

Halloween Ghost Hunt at Wycombe Museum Sun 25 Oct Ghoulish games and creepy crafts for ages 4-11 Wycombe Museum, Priory Avenue, HP13 6PX www.wycombemuseum.org.uk/events/ halloween-ghost-hunt-2026 Dog Man, The Musical at The Wycombe Swan Mon 26-Wed 28 Oct New musical based on the bestselling book series from Dav Pilkey, creator of Captain Underpants and Cat Kid Comic Club. The Wycombe Swan Theatre, HP11 2XE www.trafalgartickets.com/wycombe-swantheatre Luca Silvestrini's The Magic Flute at Norden Farm Tue 27 Oct Join the fun-loving bird-catcher Papageno and the lost Prince Tamino as they set out to rescue Princess Pamina. Ages 7+. Norden Farm, Altwood Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF https://norden.farm/events/luca-silvestrini-sthe-magic-flute

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham

WHAT'S ON Terrific Tuesday at Chiltern Open Air Museum Tue 27 Oct Children’s activities from 11am-5pm and the theme is Autumn. Included in general admission. Gorelands Lane, Chalfont st Giles, HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk/events Autumn Crafts at Bekonscot Model Village and Railway Tue 27 -Fri 29 Oct Autumn crafts in the Education Centre. Bekonscot Model Village and Railway, Warwick Road, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 2PL www.bekonscot.co.uk The Amazing Bubbleman at The Curve Wed 28 Oct Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences around the world for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. The Curve, William Street, Slough, SL1 1XY www.curvevenue.uk/events/the-amazingbubbleman The Elves and The Shoemaker at Norden Farm Wed 28 Oct Beautiful set, puppets, sublime music, a kaleidoscope of miniature shoes and a comic mouse make this show a magical must-see. Norden Farm, Altwood Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events/the-elves-and-theshoemaker-26 The Spooktastic Halloween Show at the Kenton Theatre Wed 28 Oct All-new Halloween adventure packed with music, magical mayhem and non-stop laughs. Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BS www.thekenton.org.uk/whats-on Halloween Spectacular at Chiltern Open Air Museum Thu 29 Oct Halloween fun from 5.00pm-9.00pm Gorelands Lane, Chalfont st Giles, HP8 4AB www.coam.org.uk/events

Twilight Tricks at The Roald Dahl Museum Thu 29 Oct Halloween fun and trail. 5.20pm-8.00pm 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden, HP16 0AL www.roalddahlmuseum.org/see-whats-on Kevin Quantum Anti-Gravity: Thrilling and Beautiful Magic at Norden Farm Thu 29 Oct Enter a space where the rules of gravity are bent and broken. Norden Farm, Altwood Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events/kevin-quantum-antigravity-thrilling-and-beautiful-magic Red Robin’s Winter Song at The Kenton Theatre Thu 29 Oct Step into a twinkling, snow-dusted world with Red Robin’s Winter Song – a gentle and joy-filled winter play perfect for young children and their families. Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BS www.thekenton.org.uk/whats-on/red-robinswinter-tale A Tale of Us at Norden Farm Fri 30 Oct A Tale of Us is a brand new play for parents and their babies. For 0-18months. Norden Farm, Altwood Rd, Maidenhead, SL6 4PF www.norden.farm/events/a-tale-of-us Dinton After Dark Sat 31 Oct Spooky (but not scary!) lakeside trail with characters, marshmallow roasting and parking included in entry ticket. Food and drink available. Runs from 4.30-6.30pm. Age 3-12. Dinton Pastures Country Park, Davis St, Hurst, RG10 0TH www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/events/ dinton-after-dark Bray Village Halloween Trail Sat 31 Oct Trail and spooky fun from 4pm. Bray Village Hall, High Street, SL6 2AR https://brayvillagefete.co.uk/events

Don't forget to say you saw these events in Families Thames Valley East Magazine!

Fireworks Spectacular Family Raceday at Ascot Racecourse Sat 31 Oct Fairground rides, live entertainment and over 20,000 fireworks. Kids go free with a full paying adult ticket. Ascot Racecourse, High Street, Ascot SL5 7JX www.ascot.com/racedays/fireworks

Upcoming

Lazer Light Show at Dinton Pastures Sun 1 Nov Lazer show plus children’s rides, BBQ etc. Dinton Pastures Country Park, RG12 7PA www.wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/events/ laser-light-show Fire-Fest at Braywick Park Sat 7 Nov Fireworks spectacular, food and drink and Traylens Funfair. Braywick Park, Maidenhead, SL6 1BN www.aandlevents.net/fire-fest

Thames Valley East

Contact us to have your event listed in our next issue, email editor@familiestveast.co.uk

Give your child a confidence boost with Perform Are you looking for a fun weekly activity where your child can build confidence, find their voice and make new friends? Perform's drama, dance and singing classes for ages 4-7 and 7-12 provide a positive outlet for children to express themselves, grow in confidence and have fun. Filled with drama-based games, improvisation, catchy songs and fun dance routines, each term ends with a magical performance, giving each child the opportunity to shine. Every child is welcome to come try Perform for FREE, to discover what their classes are all about before joining. It's also a great opportunity to chat to the team about your child's individual needs, whether that's building confidence, speaking up in a group, developing social skills or making new friends. No previous experience is needed. This autumn's productions: Ages 4-7: Super Hero School - an action-packed mission to save the planet. Ages 7-12: Jack and the Wonderbeans - a Hollywood-inspired spy thriller.

Music School for Children

Classes are available in: North Ascot Community Centre, Ascot SL5 8LA 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays 11.15am Boyne Hill Infant School, Maidenhead SL6 4HZ 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; 7-12s Saturdays 11.15am All Saints Church Hall, Marlow SL7 2AA 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm

Virginia Water Community Centre, GU25 4EY 4-7s Mondays 4pm; 7-12s Mondays 5.05pm 4 Marlow Rd, Youth and Community Centre SL6 7YR 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm Upton House School, Windsor SL4 3DF 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5.05pm

Visit perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE trial class. editor@familiestveast.co.uk 07867 514138

High-quality movement- & singing-based musicianship classes for the 2s to 8s Violin lessons Piano musicianship classes Englefield Green, Egham, Surrey

MUSICwww.steppingnotes.com CLASSES FOR THE 2s TO 8s MUSIC afternoons CLASSES FOR THE 2s TO 8ss nikhil@dally.org.uk Tuesday & Saturday morning Tuesday afternoons & Saturday morning s 01932 363624 Jurgens Centre Jurgens CentreGreen, Surrey 91 Harvest Road, Englefield 91 Harvest Road, Englefield Green, Surrey For further information, contact Nikhil Dally For further information, contactValley NikhilEast Dally23 01932 363624 Families Thames 01932 363624 nikhil@dally.org.uk

FOOD

Delicious AND nutritious lunch box ideas By Samantha Gnimavo

Research shows fewer than two percent of packed lunches meet School Food Standards* but it doesn’t have to be that way. Can lunch boxes can be delicious AND nutritious? Certainly - here’s how! Swap your usual spread for something with more flavour Trying new spreads introduces children to different flavours and sneaks in extra nutrients. Instead of butter or mayo, why not try houmous or pesto? Both add fibre and taste great. Small changes like this gradually broaden a child’s palate.

Don’t forget dairy Babybel® or small cheese chunks are easy, protein-rich additions. If packing yoghurt, check the sugar content: fruit yogurts can contain a surprising amount. A simple fix is stirring a little jam into plain yogurt instead.

Swap crisps for popcorn Crisps are a lunchbox staple but have you considered salted popcorn? Higher in fibre and lower in fat, it’s a simple, satisfying swap. It’s fun and easy to make at home or pick up small ready-made bags at most supermarkets. A small change, a big win!

Eat the rainbow

For a sweet treat, add a piece of seasonal fruit

Swap white bread for wholegrain or sourdough

Fruit is nature’s dessert. Regularly rotating one or two pieces exposes your child to a range of flavours. Seasonal fruit is usually cheaper too, so beyond the banana or apple standbys, try a pear, satsumas, apricots or berries. Variety is the spice of life!

Plain white bread is low in nutrients and digests quickly, leaving children hungry before the afternoon is over. Wholegrain and sourdough breads are far more nutritious and release energy slowly. It’s a simple swap that makes a real difference.

Pack an after-school snack The school day doesn’t end at lunch. An extra snack for home time satisfies afterschool hunger. Good options include a small handful of nuts or seeds (if the school allows), a cereal bar, rice cakes or a piece of fruit. A little goes a long way.

Keep it simple: add a flask of water

Insulated flasks and food jars keep food warm for hours so they work for colder weather lunchboxes. A warming bowl of last night’s leftover pasta, soup or stew is comforting, nutritious and reduces food waste.

*www.bit.ly/foodfoundationkids

24 Families Thames Valley East

Hitting five-a-day starts at lunchtime. Adding vegetables to a sandwich boosts fibre, vitamins and minerals, keeping energy levels steady all afternoon. Try salad leaves, tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, grated carrot or sliced bell peppers. Colourful and crunchy, let your child choose.

The more colours on a plate, the better. Fruit and vegetables all contain different vitamins, so variety really does matter. Challenge your child to spot every colour in their lunchbox. It turns healthy eating into a game and makes lunchtime more exciting.

Choose hot over cold

Samantha Gnimavo is owner of Happy Body (www.happy-body.co.uk), a women’s health and fertility nutritionist and NHSaccredited health coach.

Fresh fillings in sandwiches

Staying hydrated is essential for concentration and overall health, yet it’s often overlooked in lunchboxes. A flask of water is all you need. Skip the squash, it adds unnecessary sugar. If your child isn’t keen on plain water, try adding a slice of lemon, a sprig of mint or swap to sparkling water.

Who doesn’t love a good dip? You can never have too many vegetables. Chop some carrots, cucumber and bell peppers, add a pot of houmous and you put fun and fibre into any lunchbox or after-school snack. Children who help prepare their food are also more likely to eat it.

Maidenhead Windsor Marlow Ascot Slough Egham