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Thames Valley West
IN THIS ISSUE
Early Years Education Health Issue 140 January/February 2026
Familiesonline.co.uk
Familiesonline.co.uk Families Thames Valley West
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The Look Out Discovery Centre
TRY A
FREE CLASS
Over 90 activities of hands-on science and discovery fun for children of all ages! BOOK ONLINE and enter TVW2026 at checkout for 10% off admission
Now showing
CONFIDENCE
Drama, dance & singing classes designed to help 4–12 year olds shine Crowthorne, Goring, Henley, Reading, Twyford or Wokingham To book visit perform.org.uk/try
A great family day out whatever the weather!
OPEN
every day
W NOPEN O cakes, plus a wide variety of hot and cold drinks and ice creams.
www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery @thelookoutbracknell www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisure-services/look-out-discovery-centre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW
OPEN MORNING 5 February 12 March | 25 April Book your space here
“One school. One community. Teetering on the brink of glory.” GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE
Co-educational | Day School | Nursery - Year 11 Crosfields School, Shinfield Road, Reading, Berks RG2 9BL | 0118 9871810 | admissions@crosfields.com
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CONTENTS
Editor’s Welcome Happy New Year! I hope you enjoyed your end-of-year festivities and are excited about the year ahead and the adventures that it could hold.
The Team:
One of these adventures might include joining in a family festival, and you will find a roundup of some of the best of these around the country on page 12: something to look forward to!
EDITOR: Lesley Chambers 07863 790592 editor@familiestvw.co.uk SALES SUPPORT: Natasha Gudgeon 07767 893807 natasha@familiespublishing.co.uk
Closer to home, we have news of various local businesses and schools – this is integral to Families Thames Valley West magazine’s focus. We are part of a community, and it’s great to celebrate the organisations and places that are a part of this!
DESIGN: Rebecca Carr rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.uk
At a time of year when we often think about our health and resolutions, we look at the mental load that parents bear and the importance of emotional rest: check out our article on page 10 for more information.
NEXT ISSUE: MARCH/APRIL Booking deadline: 3 February Feature: Early years, Easter holidays
I hope you have a great start to 2026!
IN THIS ISSUE: 4
News
5
Local business
6-8
Education
9
Early years
10
Health
11
Clubs and classes
12
Festivals
13-15
What’s On
Lesley Competition winner: Congratulations to Blaire Walker, who won a signed copy of the book Felicity Fire and the Forever Key by Leon Mitchell, which was our local giveaway in the November/ December 2025 issue.
FREE Magazines! If your school or family-friendly venue would like to receive FREE copies of Families Thames Valley West magazine, contact us at editor@familiestvw.co.uk
Where is Families Thames Valley West? HENLEYON-THAMES
READING BRACKNELL NEWBURY THATCHAM
WOKINGHAM
We distribute 19,000 copies every issue! Families Thames Valley West 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 West 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 West. 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.
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NEWS
GIVEAWAY
STEALTH Gaming Accessories Bundles
A baa-rilliant lambing line-up this February half term Visitors to Odds Farm Park will be able to welcome the pitter-patter of tiny hooves into the world as the Bucks-based leisure attraction gets ready to deliver its annual lambing event.
Cool gaming gear for your little gamer 2 available
Bundles include:
Love and Lambs kicks off on Saturday 14 February and runs throughout the half term until Sunday 22 February. More than 25 ewes are ready to give birth over the week-long school holiday with many expecting twins or triplets.
Radar Light-Up Night Sky Headset & Stand Light-Up Wired Gaming Keyboard and Mouse LED Desk Mat
Louise Winslow, assistant general manager at Odds Farm Park, says: “Our event gets underway on Valentine’s Day, so it seemed fitting we should be celebrating both love and lambs this February.”
AGES 6+
Worth £93 each T&Cs apply
Use QR code or apply at www.familiesmag.co.uk/go
GIVEAWAY
Love will also be in the air at the Odds’ Craft Barn where younger guests can enjoy making heart-themed crafts to keep or give to someone special. There is also plenty of weather-proof fun at Odds Farm Park in the indoor soft play barn, while outside there is the outdoor adventure play and Marmalade’s Mini Golf course. Do make sure you book your tickets soon! www.oddsfarm.co.uk
Families Thames Valley West is for sale! Ages 3+
Tickit Woodland Trail Treehouses
Since 2021 I have been the editor of this magazine, and it has been a wonderful experience. I have enjoyed the feeling of uniting a community and sharing useful local information with thousands of families in a publication that I love reading myself as a mum of two children. I have always been a big reader, and I still feel that there is something special about words on paper; the relaxation it provides is so much more than I get from scrolling or reading from a screen. Families magazines are proud to be print and have been since 1990. I love completing projects, and putting each issue together is like a project that comes to fruition every other month. Also, the flexibility of being my own boss has been ideal at a time when I’ve wanted to be there for children’s concerts, sports days and helping out at school.
3 available Inspire your child’s imaginative adventures! Eco-friendly wooden play set
Nevertheless, children grow and our focus shifts – which is why I am a ready for the next challenge and am hoping to pass this fantastic role on to a new editor.
Worth £39.99
Three tiers + connecting ladders 4 animal friends
Use QR code or apply at www.familiesmag.co.uk/go 4
Families Thames Valley West
T&Cs apply
Being part of the Families network means great support and training at the same time as being completely independent as a franchisee! If you are interested in finding out more about how you could be the next editor of Families Thames Valley West, please drop me a line at editor@familiestwv.co.uk
Advertise your business in our next issue? Call Natasha on 07767 893807 natasha@familiespublishing.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
LOCAL BUSINESSES
Welcome to Rocket Propelled Games in Newbury Rocket Propelled Games is a familyrun independent board game café. It is a welcoming space designed for families, friends, and anyone looking to reconnect over shared fun. In a world where digital distractions dominate, RPG brings people back to the table - literally.
Green Ways ‘Waste Not’ Free Shop in Reading We often wonder about our environmental impact on the planet and what positive changes are being made locally. Green Ways is a lovely, Reading-based charity where I have been volunteering once a week for the last few months in their Waste Not free shop. This charity promotes sustainable ways of living, including reducing waste and encouraging a sense of community. Small household items, including clothes, toys, kitchenware and bedding, are donated. These are organised and displayed, and customers then come to shopping sessions with a difference: everything is completely free! It has been wonderful seeing items get new life and new homes – and it’s always interesting to see some of the weird and wonderful things that are donated. I have seen a rocking chair, a family of white tiger teddies and a 1980s game of Downfall get new homes, amongst many other things! If you would like to visit the shop or become a volunteer, check out facebook.com/GreenWaysUK for more opening times and information.
From fast, light party games, classic family favourites to immersive modern strategy adventures, RPG offers something for everyone. RPG is inclusive, neurodiverse and deaf friendly. The space is designed to be family-friendly, encouraging comfort, confidence and belonging. No prior gaming knowledge is required - just curiosity and a willingness to play. RPG hosts a range of events, and clubs reminding us that games aren’t just entertainment: they build confidence, communication, and community in a fun safe space. Find Rocket Propelled Games on Facebook and Instagram. 150-151 Bartholomew Street, Newbury, RG14 5HB
WIN!
GIVEAWAY:
We are excited to be able to offer TWO prizes of a free 2-hour game session for up to 6 people at Rocket Propelled Games! If you would like to be in with a chance of winning, please e-mail editor@familiestvw.co.uk by 31st January and winners will be chosen at random.
13a Southview Park, Reading, RG4 5AF
Adventures, Half-Term re fun and friends Fun & Adventu16th-20th February at The Beehive this half term
8am-6pm £45
ages 3-11 years
www.beehiveclub.co.uk/holidayclubs
Dive into a week of fun, friends and unforgettable adventures at The Beehive February HalfTerm Holiday Clubs, packed with brilliant activities for every 3–11-year-old!
Join the team at Crown Wood or Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools for a buzzing line-up, including: • • • •
The Beehive Express Play Bus Berkshire Birds of Prey A high-energy K-Pop disco Judo sessions
PLUS daily arts & crafts, games, baking, sports, toys and endless opportunities for imaginative play! Full days, 16-20 February 2026: 8am–6pm for £45. Open to all children aged 3–11, The Beehive Holiday Clubs make booking simple with easy online registration, secure payments, childcare vouchers are accepted and there is a 10% sibling discount. For a February Half-Term bursting with creativity, excitement and adventure, book your place at The Beehive Holiday Clubs at Crown Wood Primary School or Nine Mile Ride Primary School! www.beehiveclub.co.uk Facebook: thebeehivekidsclub Familiesonline.co.uk
Making healthy food choices for your family A recent UCL study has shown that toddlers in the UK obtain 47% of their calories from ultraprocessed foods (UPFs), growing to 59% by the age of seven. UPFs are typically defined as industrially produced and contain ingredients not used in home cooking. High consumption of UPFs has been linked to poor health outcomes. To reduce the amount of UPFs your children consume you can: •
look for a short ingredients list on the products you buy, ideally less than five
•
cook from scratch as much as possible
•
choose organic; organic foods are not allowed to contain artificial colours and preservatives. Organic foods can contain higher levels of antioxidants and omega-3, which are beneficial to health.
At True Food Co-op, a community-run organic and zero-waste shop in Emmer Green, near Reading you can find a huge range of healthy, locally sourced, organic foods suitable for a range of diets. Find out more at: www.truefood.coop True Food Co-op, 61 Grove Road, Emmer Green, RG4 8LJ Families Thames Valley West
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EDUCATION
School Open Days Jan-Feb 2026
Open days may need pre-booking. Please check before visiting.
Find fun, friendship and confidence with Perform Looking for a fun way to boost your child’s confidence this spring? Perform offers weekly classes in drama, dance and singing for ages 4 to 7 and 7 to 12, combining joy, creativity and self-expression. Alongside learning new life skills each week, the children work towards a magical end-of-term performance that gives every child a chance to shine. Productions this term are Midnight in the Toyshop - a toytastic adventure for ages 4 to 7 and Outlaw - a thrilling retelling of Robin Hood for ages 7 to 12. The programme is packed with confidence-building activities, from expressive communication and listening skills to learning how to be a great teammate - all delivered with Perform’s signature energy and encouragement. Children can enjoy a FREE trial session before joining, allowing time to discuss individual needs. To book a FREE, no-obligation trial in Crowthorne, Goring, Henley, Reading, Twyford or Wokingham, visit www.perform. org.uk/try
Crosfields School Reading, RG2 9BL 0118 987 1810 crosfields.com Thursday 5 February, 9.15am: Whole School Open Morning Leighton Park School Reading, RG2 7ED 0118 987 9608 leightonpark.com Friday 13 March, 9am: Open Morning Oratory Prep School Reading, RG8 7SF 0118 984 4511 oratoryprep.so.uk Friday 6 February All school open day Queen Anne’s School 6 Henley Road, Caversham, Reading, RG4 6DX 0118 918 7333
qas.org.uk Friday 27th February, 9:30am: Open Morning St Joseph’s College Reading, RG1 5JT 0118 966 1000 sjcr.org.uk Monday 2 February, 9:30am: Discover Senior: Tour and talk Friday 13 February, 9:30am: Stay and Play Thursday 26 February, 9:30am: Discover Prep: Tour and coffee with the Head To feature your school’s open events in our next issue, email the information to editor@familiestvw.co.uk by Friday 3 February.
Successful ISI inspection at the Oratory Prep School
“Leaders focus on prioritising pupils’ academic and personal growth successfully so that pupils receive highly effective education and care. This is a significant strength. Leaders have high aspirations for all and have successfully developed a culture where pupils have faith in themselves.” The Oratory Prep School is celebrating a highly successful ISI inspection, with the report praising the strength of teaching, the warmth of relationships across the school and the purposeful atmosphere in which pupils learn and grow. Inspectors noted pupils’ curiosity, their impressive attitudes to learning and the confidence they show when tackling new ideas. They also highlighted the kindness pupils show towards one another and the thoughtful way staff guide them through each stage of their journey. The report commended the rich curriculum, small class sizes and the school’s commitment to helping every child flourish. Pastoral care was described as consistently strong, with pupils feeling known, supported and encouraged to take responsibility for themselves. www.oratoryprep.co.uk
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7
EDUCATION
Redefining educational success By Gavin McCormack In my twenty-five years as a school teacher, I’ve had hundreds of conversations with parents about what would be best for their children. What all those conversations had in common was that no matter what was happening at home, in the classroom or with the children’s learning, what parents wanted most from education was for their children to be happy. And why not? Nothing is more precious than seeing a child truly happy and content in being who they are. Yet many of us still enrol our children in schools that boast about achieving the highest grades, having the biggest swimming pools or ranking highest on national league tables, without considering what these schools do to make our children feel content, purposeful and passionate. The reality of being number one In 2022, the OECD’s PISA rankings named Singapore as the number one school system in the world regarding academic attainment. The country has a regular spot in the top five, alongside Taiwan, Macau and Japan. But does that mean those children are getting the best start in life? Paradoxically, the OECD also releases The World Happiness Report, which ranks the world’s happiest countries. If academic rankings were linked to happiness levels, surely we’d see the same countries in the top positions on both reports? But that’s not the case. Iceland, Sweden, Denmark and Finland all top the happiness rankings. How can that be? There is a clear mismatch between our children’s academic grades and their levels of happiness. Although Singapore’s education system is renowned for its academic rigour and high standards, I’ve heard numerous firsthand accounts that this desire to be the best comes at a cost. Several studies speak to this same cost - alarmingly high levels of anxiety among Singaporean students, primarily attributed to academic pressure - including the 2017 OECD study that found eighty six percent of Singaporean students were worried about getting poor grades - even when well-prepared, compared to the OECD’s global average of sixty six percent (which is still very high).
The consequences of chronic stress can be severe, affecting students’ mental and emotional wellbeing, sleep patterns and quality of life. The focus on academic achievement can also lead to losing interest in learning, where the joy of discovery is replaced by the anxiety of performance. Simply put, if we put too much emphasis on our children getting the top grades, competing against each other and avoiding failure at all costs, they will inevitably become more anxious. Interestingly, Iceland, Sweden, Denmark and Finland - the top four countries on the 2022 OECD’s happiness ranking all have one thing in common: their citizens have immense personal freedom, choice and high trust levels within their communities - qualities that all work together to prevent the development of anxiety and depression. If we really want to put children’s happiness first, then we should choose schools that trust them to make their own decisions, learn from their mistakes, have agency over their learning and engage with the real world. This article is an abridged extract from the book Raising Resilient Children by Gavin McCormack, published by Simon & Schuster, available in all good bookshops now.
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Celebrate reading on World Book Day
What do the words ‘best school’ mean?
Help your child celebrate a love of reading on World Book Day, Thursday 5 March.
Before you enrol your child in any school, you have to decide what ‘best’ means to you.
Spark your child’s imagination and encourage them to read for pleasure and join in nationwide activities designed to make books exciting. Schools will distribute special £1 book tokens that children can swap for exclusive new titles or put towards any book in participating shops.
Is the ‘best’ school dictated by the grades, points, scores, facilities and reputation? Or is a successful school journey not about ‘what’ your child becomes but ‘who’?
Many schools also will invite students to dress up as favourite characters and host reading-related events. 8
The study revealed that the pressure stems from various sources, including parental expectations, societal emphasis on academic achievement and the competitive nature of the education system itself, which is not unique to Singapore. A fear of failure and internalising expectations doesn’t sound like a healthy childhood to me.
Families Thames Valley West
In my view, it’s the latter. For me, education is about allowing a child to find their passion and attend a school that embraces the same values and visions for the future that their family holds dear. Familiesonline.co.uk
EARLY YEARS
Overcoming bath refusal By Claire Burgess What do you do when a young child who loves having a bath suddenly stops wanting to go in? As a great ‘wind down’ opportunity before bedtime, it’s natural to worry that this refusal might affect their bedtime routine. Please be reassured that some children go through this phase and it is connected to their stage of development at the time. There are a number of reasons why your child may refuse the bath. These could include a previous experience that upset them, bath times being too long or too late, different sounds in the bathroom, a dislike of hair washing and even worries about being sucked down the plug hole! The following successful approaches may encourage your little one back into the water again. Make bath time fun Use toys. These could be anything from toy animals to watertight balls and glow sticks, blowing bubbles, bath crayons or bath colouring tablets. Use a bath mat This helps your little one feels secure when sitting or standing and helps avoid slipping. Having a bath in the day with no water Think of this as practice in adjusting to being in water. Avoid doing this at a time when your child might be tired or hungry though. Reading books about having a bath can be helpful.
Encourage ‘sink play’ in the bathroom Fill the sink with water (possibly coloured with food colouring) and then put some toys in and around it. Use a step so your little one can reach the sink and let them play as they wish. This can emphasise the fun element of water and familiarise your child with being in the bathroom. Let your child stand, rather than making them sit down This lets you wash your little one while they are standing and playing with toys on the edge of the bath (this is why it is important to have a bathmat to avoid slipping). It’s possible they may only be in the bath for a couple of minutes. This is absolutely fine and you can try to gradually build up the length of their bath. Hopefully, over time, they will feel confident enough to sit down. Put on their swimming costume/trunks/armbands This adds a fun element! You could also play the Cocomelon bath song to make things even more fun. Find it on YouTube. Claire Burgess is a director and family consultant at Bespoke Family (www.bespokefamily.co.uk), which offers tailored support from newborns to teens.
Other reasons for bath refusal If there’s been a previous occasion when the bath water was a little too warm or too cold, this may have contributed to your little one’s bath refusal. Always fill the bath with cold water and then top up with hot to ensure it isn’t too warm. It should be around body temperature (37 degrees) and you can test it with your elbow. If you use a bath thermometer, make sure you re-test with your elbow afterwards. Never leave children unattended in or near water even when just running baths or sinks and always empty them as soon as they are no longer in use.
Dealing with hair washing challenges Many infants do not enjoy having their hair washed and if your child is suddenly unwilling to have a bath, it might be because they associate it with this.
Young children often go through periods where they find bedtime worrying and they may associate bathing with bedtime. Remember also that what seems normal to adults doesn’t necessarily seem so for young children. Reassure them they won’t be sucked down the plug hole when the bath is emptied.
The Perfect IntroDUC tion to i w S mming
You could consider the following options to help move things forward: If you’ve previously used a shower attachment, use a jug or two of water for the hair wash instead - or vice versa! Get your child to look up at the ceiling while you are washing their hair so that the water drains down their back and not down their face. You can also give them a dry flannel to hold over their eyes to prevent shampoo going in them and so that if any water does come down their face they are able to dry it. Get the hair wash out of the way at the start of the bath; then your child can play and you are ending bath time on a positive note.
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9
HEALTH
The invisible mental load and psychology of rest
By Dr Sasha Hall
As a psychologist and a parent of two young children, I have seen both professionally and personally how easily the invisible mental load builds up. This load is the ongoing, often unseen mental effort required to keep family life functioning. It includes not only the physical tasks of daily life but also the constant background thinking that ensures these tasks happen at the right time and in the right way. It is the invisible spreadsheet running quietly in the mind, updated in real time as family needs change. For many parents (generally mothers), this mental load can feel like carrying an endless list of responsibilities in their minds. It might include planning meals, remembering school events, booking appointments, checking that uniforms are ready and ensuring everyone has what they need for the day ahead. Alongside this are seasonal or longer-term considerations such as holidays, birthdays or preparing for school transitions. Even positive events, such as planning a family outing or helping with a costume for school, can add to the mental noise. These are all small, individual thoughts that combine into a continuous mental hum. In homes shared with partners or older children, there can also be what psychologists call cognitive unloading, where others rely on one person to hold or manage the shared mental information. Questions such as: ‘Where are my keys?’ or ‘What are we having for dinner?’ might seem trivial, but they represent moments where someone else is temporarily renting space in a parent’s mind. Over time, these repeated small intrusions can add to feelings of exhaustion and reduce the sense of mental clarity that is essential for wellbeing. When this happens frequently, the parent may begin to feel as though they are the project manager of the household, responsible for doing, remembering, prompting and anticipating. Research shows that cognitive rest is just as important as physical rest. Rest is not merely the absence of doing; it is the presence of mental recovery. When we rest effectively, the brain has the opportunity to consolidate memories, regulate emotions and restore executive functioning. These are the higher-order
skills that allow us to plan, problem-solve and make decisions. Just as muscles need recovery after exertion, our brains also need space to decompress and reorganise. Without sufficient rest, the brain’s capacity for emotional regulation and attention control diminishes. This can lead to increased irritability, forgetfulness and a sense of being mentally overloaded. For parents, especially mothers carrying multiple invisible demands, this may mean feeling less patient with children or partners and finding it harder to remain present in moments that should bring connection and enjoyment. The psychology of rest reminds us that rest is not indulgence but maintenance. It allows us to sustain the very skills that underpin both parenting and professional life. Creating even small opportunities for rest throughout the day can help regulate the nervous system and restore emotional balance. This might include brief moments of quiet reflection, mindful breathing or simply allowing the mind to wander without purpose. When rest is prioritised, parents often describe feeling more grounded, more able to engage meaningfully with their children and more confident in managing the continuous mental load. In essence, rest is not about doing less but about replenishing the mental space that allows us to think, care and respond effectively. Recognising and sharing the invisible work that goes on in our minds is the first step toward valuing rest as a psychological necessity rather than a luxury. Dr Sasha Hall is an HCPC-registered Senior Educational and Child Psychologist and founder of Hall & Co Educational Psychology Services (www.hallandcoeps.co.uk).
The science of mental rest
Mental rest does not always require sleep or silence. Research into attention restoration suggests that simply engaging in gentle, absorbing activities such as walking outdoors, listening to music or spending time in nature allows the brain to recover from focused thought. During rest, neural pathways related to creativity and problem-solving become more active. This helps restore a sense of clarity and perspective, enabling a parent to return to their daily roles with improved focus, emotional balance and a stronger sense of self.
10 Families Thames Valley West
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CLUBS & CLASSES
Clubs & Classes Directory
Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: editor@familiestvw.co.uk DEVELOPMENTAL CLASSES Encanta Tots Looking for a new weekly activity with your baby? Curious about raising bilingual children? Encanta Tots offers bilingual (English & Spanish) baby & toddler music & sensory classes. Our sessions are the perfect mix of fun, learning and sensory play; no previous Spanish needed! Join us this January! You can book for the whole term, join halfway or only for one session. Classes are Tuesdays 10am in Pangbourne Village Hall and Wednesdays 10am at Soul Barns, Mortimer. www.encantatots.co.uk
DRAMA & DANCE Alison-Jayne School of Dance The Alison-Jayne School of Dance is a small dance school offering ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern lessons from age 3 to 18 years at the Christ Church Centre, Henley and Sonning Common School. For further information/free Introductory lesson, please ring 0118 979 0683/07968 592812 or email ajdance.uk@gmail.com www.alison-jaynedance Perform Weekly drama, dance and singing classes. These are confidence-building drama classes for 4-7s and 7-12s. A unique mix of fun drama games, dance and singing specially designed to boost confidence, communication, concentration and coordination. To book a FREE class, visit www.perform.org. uk/try
Master Builders Club Brick Building Workshops for Children Master Builders Club is a LEGO® & DUPLO® lovers paradise! Our weekend and holiday workshops, after school clubs, birthday parties and nursery/primary school events are designed to provide children with an exciting and captivating experience. We provide 1000’s of LEGO® or DUPLO® bricks in a calm and supportive environment along with the imaginative stimulus to transform a room into a world of creativity. If you are passionate about providing engaging and stimulating play opportunities that nurture your child’s mind, then Master Builders Club is for you! To book your brick building fan a place or to find out more about our events, visit the website.
Progress Youth Theatre Workshops for ages 7-18 involving theatre games, improvisation and skills development, leading to a stage production every year. We are an Arts Award Supporter and also offer LAMDA courses. Classes held at Progress Theatre, Reading. Email to book a FREE taster session. youthgroup@progresstheatre.co.uk progresstheatre.co.uk/youth-theatre
Don’t forget to say you saw these in Families Thames Valley West magazine!
Reading Rep Theatre From cosy storytimes for little ones (ages 18 months–5) to spirited youth theatre groups, Reading Rep invites children from early years to age 12+ to learn, play and grow in a real working theatre, guided by professional actors and industry leaders who nurture confidence, imagination and a love of storytelling. Find out more at readingrep.com SWIMMING Puddle Ducks Puddle Ducks teaches children from birth to 10 years, to swim independently, confidently and to love and respect the water. Classes are 30 minutes long, the optimum amount of time that children of all ages able to concentrate and can handle the physical workout. Weekend and weekday lessons available. Free trials (t&cs apply) and sibling discount offered. Contact northhampshireandreading@ puddleducks.com or call 0118 229 3232. www.puddleducks.com/local-teams/northhampshire-and-reading St Joseph’s Swim School Fun and engaging swimming lessons, small class sizes in private learning pool following Swim England programme for 4+. FREE onsite parking. Register your interest now! For more information visit www.sjcr.org.uk/ swimschool/ or email swimschool@sjcr.org. uk
Feature your club or class in our next issue, call Lesley on 07863 790592, or email editor@familiestvw.co.uk Book by 3 February
www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
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11
FESTIVALS
Best family-friendly festivals 2026 Compiled by Andrew Campbell There’s endless fun for families to have at family-friendly festivals across the UK in 2026. Our selection of festivals below all offer a fusion of music, arts, entertainment and outdoor adventures. The BritFest 2-5 July Ashley Hall, Altrincham, Cheshire
Designed with families in mind, activities include arts and crafts, face painting, an outdoor minicinema and classic funfair rides. There’s also plenty of live music and entertainment suitable for all ages, plus options for camping or glamping for a full weekend adventure. www.thebritfest.co.uk
Y Not Festival 30 July-2 Aug Pikehall, Derbyshire
Y Not Festival is a lively music festival which offers a familyfriendly experience with plenty of activities for children. Alongside its diverse music lineup, Y Not features a dedicated Kids’ Area with arts and crafts, workshops, games and circus skills. There are also funfair rides, storytelling and interactive performances to keep younger festival-goers entertained. Families can also benefit from a dedicated camping area for a quieter night’s rest. www.ynotfestival.com
DevaFest 6-9 August Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire
DevaFest goes all out for families, especially kids, offering unlimited free fairground rides, circus skills workshops, magic shows, puppet theatre, dedicated kids’ entertainment zones, interactive storytelling sessions, arts and crafts, face painting and themed parades. Additional highlights include family discos, character meet-and-greets and treasure hunts. With extensive outdoor play areas and a focus on safety, DevaFest provides a structured, engaging programme to keep children entertained. www.devafest.co.uk
Shindig Festival 21-24 May Charlton Park, Wiltshire
Shindig Festival is a familyfriendly event that blends music, dance and creative arts with a strong community vibe. The large kids’ area is packed with free activities from 9am to 5pm daily, including arts and crafts, circus skills, workshops, games and interactive performances. There are also family-friendly shows, plenty of space for children to play and explore and a packed programme of entertainment for all ages. www.shindigfestival.co.uk
The Long Road Festival 27-30 August Stanford Hall, Leicestershire
A family-friendly celebration of country, Americana and roots music, fusing good time country music, U.S. inspired street food and great entertainment. Kids are entertained in a dedicated area with American camp style games, kids’ tractor racing, crafting and evenings spent around open campfires listening to country music under the stars. www.thelongroad.com
The Great Estate Festival 29-31 May Scorrier Estate, Redruth, Cornwall
Known for its eclectic mix of music, art, theatre and adventure. Families will find a wealth of activities for children, including circus workshops, storytelling, arts and crafts, vintage fairground rides and interactive performances. The festival’s beautiful grounds host woodland trails, secret gardens and quirky entertainment, providing plenty of space for kids to explore and play. It’s a vibrant, welcoming festival perfect for all ages. www.greatestatefestival.co.uk
The Green Man Festival 20-23 August Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, Wales
This independent music, science and arts festival nestled in the Brecon Beacons boasts plenty of large and small music venues, plus comedy, film, literature, art, science and playful mischief across dedicated zones. The festival’s Little Folk area offers hands-on workshops, nature activities, science experiments, arts and crafts and interactive performances. There are family-friendly theatre shows, storytelling sessions and dedicated play spaces designed for various age groups. www.greenman.net 12 Families Thames Valley West
Camper Calling 28-30 August Ragley Hall, Alcester, Warwickshire
Camper Calling is a true family festival for children of all ages. Kids can dive into creative workshops, music sessions and hands-on arts and crafts. There’s a dedicated Kids Stage, circus skills, woodland walks and adventures. The festival’s safe, friendly atmosphere means families can relax and enjoy live music while little ones explore, learn and play. Adults can enjoy an eclectic music lineup with acoustic sets and emerging talents. www.campercalling.com Familiesonline.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
What’s on
January/February 2026
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.
JANUARY Until 4 Jan The Little Mermaid at Watermill Theatre, Newbury Far beyond the Cornish coast, deep beneath the rolling waves, lies the magical kingdom of the Seafolk. This magical new Watermill production of The Little Mermaid weaves together salty sea air, folk and sea shanty inspired songs. watermill.org.uk 2-4 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk at Kenton Theatre, Henley Muffin Hurst presents Henley Children’s Theatre in their 55th pantomime! Featuring a cast of enthusiastic youngsters, this pantomime continues the HCT special blend of traditional storytelling with modern twists and jokes for all ages. thekenton.org.uk 10 Jan Wonder Gigs: Animals at South Street Arts Centre, Reading This themed session includes toe-tapping, acoustic covers of well-known pop, rock and folk tunes from a live, professional musician. At the same time, an experienced play facilitator will cater for your little one
with props, puppets, bubbles and gentle child-led play. whatsonreading.com 16-18 Jan Aladdin: The Pantomime at Loddon Hall, Twyford In hot pursuit of their ‘Diamond Gems’ sixtieth anniversary celebration, tireless Twyford Drama are preparing magical sets, rhythmic dances, colourful costumes and a host of unique pyrotechnics. whatsonreading.com 28 Jan-1 Mar Snowdrops at Welford Park, Newbury The award-winning grounds of this glorious private estate are open to the public to enjoy the swathes of snowdrops, hellebores, aconites and winter flowering shrubs. Wrap up warm and enjoy a walk around the grounds of the picture-perfect Queen Anne style house, then head to the tea tent for a warming drink and food to round off a lovely day. welfordpark.co.uk 31 Jan The Bubbles Show 2 – More Bubbles at South Street Arts Centre, Reading From the creator of The Bubble Show® comes a dazzling new adventure full of bubble artistry
and visual magic! Journey through the awe-inspiring legends of Bubbleland, as they are brought to life in a breathtaking theatrical experience made of soap and water. 11:30am/2pm whatsonreading.com 31 Jan The Ultimate Ariana Grande Tribute at Kenton Theatre, Henley Experience the music, the moves, and the unmistakable voice of one of the biggest pop sensations of our time. This dazzling tribute act brings Ariana Grande’s greatest hits to life in a high-energy, feel-good show for all ages. 7:30pm thekenton.org.uk
FEBRUARY 7-14 Feb Cinderella at Iver Heath Drama Club Cinderella is an exciting community pantomime telling the tale of Hardy
Hall, the home of Baron Hardy and his daughter Cinderella. The Baron has fallen on hard times leaving his wife, the Baroness, VERY keen to raise funds to renovate the hall. ihdc.co.uk 10 Feb The Gruffalo’s Child Touch Tour at The Hexagon, Reading Explore the fabulous Gruffalo’s Child set. Available to Relaxed Performance bookers only. 3:30pm whatsonreading.com 10-11 Feb The Gruffalo’s Child at The Hexagon, Reading Follow the Gruffalo’s Child on her adventurous mission in Tall Stories’ enchanting adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. One wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warnings about the Big Bad Mouse and tiptoes out into the deep dark wood. whatsonreading.com
14th - 22nd February
Meet Baby Lambs in the Little Hooves Nursery • Special Lambing Talks Live Character Shows • Arts & Crafts Activities • Acres of Outdoor Play Giant Indoor Soft Playbarn • Marshmallow Toasting and More!
www.oddsfarm.co.uk/love-and-lambs Familiesonline.co.uk
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WHAT’S ON 13-19 Feb Shrek the Musical at Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury Following Looking Glass Theatre’s success with Disney’s Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast, they are delighted to bring Shrek the Musical to life, live on stage! Get up close to your favourite characters in this immersive retelling, the perfect family half term experience. arlington-arts.com 14 Feb The Sleep Show at South Street Arts Centre, Reading A heartfelt and poetic exploration of sleep, where the wonders of dreaming, soothing rhythms of lullabies, and secrets of the body clock come to life through dance. The show softly explores the challenges children face around bedtime, turning the often daunting experience into one of fun and discovery. 11:30am/2pm whatsonreading.com 14 Feb Tom Gates EPIC Stage Show at Corn Exchange Newbury Based on the bestselling books by Liz Pichon, expect catchy tunes and hilarious performances. This fantastic stage show brings the best of the brilliant world of Tom Gates into one live show! 1:30pm/4pm cornexchangenew.com 14-22 Feb Love and Lambs at Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common More than 25 ewes are ready to give birth over the week-long school holiday with many expecting twins or triplets. oddsfarm.co.uk
15 Feb American Superslam Wrestling at The Hexagon, Reading Enjoy an afternoon of high-flying, non-stop action! Witness some of the very best wrestlers showcasing their skills in the ring, promising an unforgettable afternoon of action that’s fun for all the family! 3pm whatsonreading.com 16 Feb Play in a Day at Watermill Theatre, Newbury Celebrate the production of Swallows and Amazons on a day all about devising theatre, learning performance skills and having fun. Participants will work with two fabulous facilitators to create their own short play to perform. 9am-4pm watermill.org.uk 16 Feb One World Animals at St Paul’s Parish Rooms, Wokingham This promises to be a wild experience for animal enthusiasts of all ages. From tarantulas and snakes to playful ferrets, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and handle a diverse range of fascinating creatures up close and personal! 10:15am/11:45pm/1:45pm oneworldanimals.com 16-18 Feb Rabbit on the Run at Reading Rep Theatre A fun and touching story all about friendship; you won’t want to miss out… so join the search! Using song, BSL, shapes, colours, numbers and more, it’s time to find the Rabbit on the Run! readingrep.com
17 Feb Stage Combat Workshop at Watermill Theatre, Newbury Interested in learning about how epic battles are staged in theatre (without any injuries!)? You’ll work with an industry expert who’ll cover the basics, teach you some dynamic fight moves to practice, and perhaps help you turn your newly learnt skills into your own fight sequence by the end of the day! 9am/1pm watermill.org.uk 17 Feb RPO Relaxed Concert 2026 at The Hexagon, Reading A playful introduction to orchestral music for all with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Imagine an orchestra concert that welcomes everyone – where fidgeting is fine, chill-out spaces are ready, and the musical joy knows no boundaries. 2pm whatsonreading.com 18 Feb Family Fun Day: Swallows & Amazons at Watermill Theatre, Newbury There’ll be craft activities, youth theatre taster sessions, storytelling, a secret trail around our gardens and much more. This isn’t a day to be missed! 10am-2pm watermill.org.uk 18 Feb The Ultimate Bubble Show at Kenton Theatre, Henley Ray Bubbles, International Bubbleologist and Guinness World Record Holder, is on a mission to master the art of bubble-making and create the ultimate square bubble! This show promises a whirlwind of excitement and surprises, as Ray uses various different gases to craft
stunning bubble sculptures, effects, and magical displays. 11am/2pm thekenton.org.uk 19 Feb Exciting Science at Kenton Theatre, Henley With fun- and fact-filled experiments, watch in amazement as the team recreates a volcanic eruption, turns a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or takes aim at you with their smoke blaster! So, stand clear and prepare for action, as this show is full of wiz, bang, pop and splurt! 11:30am/2:30pm thekenton.org.uk 19-21 Feb Let’s Glow 2026 in Basingstoke Town Centre Let’s Glow will be back to illuminate Basingstoke town centre during February half term. This is a FREE light trail. lovebasingtoke.co.uk 19-21 Feb Cinderella 2: After the Ball at Kennet School, Thatcham It’s panto time (oh yes it is!) Cinderella, Prince Charming, their eccentric Uncle Hazzy, and the ever-hungry Rumble are set for an exciting new adventure! kats.org.uk 20 Feb Tiny Planet at South Street Arts Centre, Reading With breathtaking puppetry, original live folk songs and earthy percussion, uncover the mysteries that keep this little globe turning. Live camera projection brings this tiny world to life as a wanderer learns that the smallest things hold the biggest stories. 2pm whatsonreading.com
Half-Term Fun & Adventure 16th-20th February
Beehive express Bus Birds of Prey 8am-6pm £45 K-Pop Disco ages 3-11 Judo years Arts & Crafts Games, toys, outside playtime ...and so much more!
The Beehive Holiday Clubs at... Crown Wood & Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools
www.beehiveclub.co.uk/holidayclubs
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WHAT’S ON 20 Feb Victorian Schoolhouse Experience in Abbey Gateway, Reading Meet a Victorian schoolteacher and re-learn the ‘3Rs’. A 45-minute experience for adults and children over 5 in a unique Victorian classroom, in the historic Abbey Gateway. 11am/2pm readingmuseum.org.uk 20-21 Feb Rapunzel at Kenton Theatre, Henley Following the success of The Little Mermaid, award-winning
Immersion Theatre proudly presents a hair-larious and exciting retelling of the family favourite, complete with a laugh out loud script, catchy songs, audience interaction, and stunning production value including dazzling costumes and animated scenery! With magic and mayhem throughout, this is one hair-raising adventure the family won’t want to miss! 1:30pm/5pm thekenton.org.uk Don’t forget to say you saw these events listed in Families Thames Valley West Magazine!
APOLLO Half-Term Holiday Club
Monday 16 to Friday 20 February Supervised care for children ages 4-11 8.30am to 5.30pm
(bring a packed lunch)
£22.50 per day
(Concessionary rate available, T&Cs apply) Childcare vouchers accepted. Ofsted Registered.
For more information call 0118 3049330 or 07950 628750 or email: apolloyouthclub@gmail.com
Autism and ADHD Assessment Clinic A SHOW FOR AGES 3-6 YEARS
NICE guideline compliant multidisciplinary assessments for children and adults. Average wait time of 2 weeks.
Fully qualified, experienced assessors. Established 2012. Professional, reputable, widely accepted.
BOOK NOW AT READINGREP.COM Familiesonline.co.uk
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