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Editor’s Welcome
The daffodils are out and the days are getting longer. It’s time to get outside and enjoy the beginning of spring and its new growth! We’ve got a great issue that will help you make the most of springtime activities locally, along with news from our schools.
To celebrate spring, you will find delicious seasonal treats to make with the children on page 10, followed by springtime gardening projects on page 11 – traditional fun with no screens in sight!
AI and how we can comfortably work with it is a hot topic at the moment, and on page 8 we look at how AI affects your child’s education. Our early years focus this time is calmer bedtimes for young children, something that many parents crave; hopefully this article will provide support and reassurance.
There’s lots going on this season – especially during the fastapproaching Easter holidays – I hope you have lots of fun during these warmer days!
Lesley
Competition winner:
Congratulations to Chrissie Bradbury and S Moseley, who won free two-hour game sessions at Rocket Propelled Games in Newbury, which was our local giveaway in the January/February 2026 issue.
National Year of Reading: inspiring a love of books
Footballer Leah Williamson and bestselling author Richard Osman are supporting the National Year of Reading 2026, launched by the National Literacy Trust to inspire children across the UK to ‘go all in’ on reading. The campaign addresses the decline in reading for pleasure, with only one in three children now enjoying books.
Throughout 2026, the initiative will feature author visits, book giveaways, and reading challenges, focusing especially on children in communities with limited access to books. Schools and libraries are encouraged to create welcoming spaces, while families are supported to make reading a daily habit.
Williamson, Osman, and other ambassadors aim to show that books can be exciting and relevant for every child. By encouraging a love of stories early on, the National Year of Reading hopes to build children’s literacy skills, confidence, and future opportunities.
More info: literacytrust.org.uk
Enhanced search tool for complex medical needs
WellChild has relaunched its digital platform In Your Area following significant investment and extensive collaboration with parents and carers of children with complex medical needs. The platform helps families find relevant local services and support through a simple postcode search.
The relaunch introduces enhanced filtering options, allowing users to refine results based on their child’s specific accessibility requirements. This helps families identify genuinely suitable services rather than relying on generic listings. WellChild believes it’s the first UK digital resource offering this level of tailored, accessibility-focused search for families with complex medical needs.
The improved platform addresses parent feedback that finding appropriate support can feel overwhelming and time-consuming alongside caring responsibilities. It also supports healthcare professionals who signpost families to local services but may lack access to up-to-date, area-specific information needed to match families with suitable support.
Get involved with British Science Week
British Science Week 2026 is set to run from 6 to 15 March, bringing together schools, community groups and science enthusiasts across the UK for a nationwide celebration of science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM).
Organised by the British Science Association, the annual event offers a packed programme of activities, experiments, and events aimed at sparking curiosity and excitement about science among people of all ages.
This year’s theme is Curiosity: what’s your question and encourages children to discover how they might find answers to the questions they’re most curious about. The event celebrates curiosity as the driving force behind all scientific discovery, highlighting that it’s not just essential to science, but also to understanding and improving our everyday lives.
To find a local event or download a free activity pack, visit www.britishscienceweek.org
World Autism Acceptance Month
2026
April is World Autism Acceptance Month focusing on increasing understanding, acceptance and inclusion of autistic people. Organised by charities like the National Autistic Society and supported by schools, businesses and communities, the annual campaign aims to move beyond awareness and promote genuine acceptance of neurodiversity in all aspects of life.
Activities will include educational events, social media and fundraising to support autism-friendly initiatives and resources. Many organisations will share stories and experiences from autistic people and their families, challenging stereotypes and highlighting the diversity and strengths within the autism community. Schools and workplaces are encouraged to participate by hosting assemblies, workshops or ‘Autism Acceptance’ days.
The campaign also advocates for better opportunities and support for autistic individuals, aiming to tackle barriers in education, employment and public life.
To find out how to get involved, visit www.autism.org.uk
School
Open Days
Mar-Apr 2026
Open days may need pre-booking. Please check before visiting.
Crosfields School
Reading, RG2 9BL 0118 987 1810
crosfields.com
Wed 18 Mar: Nursery stay & play
Fri 20 Mar: Reception taster Sat 25 Apr: Whole school open morning (all events at 9:15am).
Leighton Park School
Reading, RG2 7ED 0118 987 9608
leightonpark.com
Fri 13 Mar: 9am Open morning
Luckley House School
Wokingham, RG40 3EU 0118 978 4175
luckleyhouseschool.org
Wed 18 Mar: Open morning
Pangbourne College
Reading, RG8 8LA 0118 976 7415
pangbourne.com
Sat 25 Apr: 10am Whole school
open morning
St Joseph’s College
Reading, RG1 5JT 0118 966 1000 sjcr.org.uk
Wed 18 Mar: 9:30am Senior open morning
Wed 25 Mar & Thu 23 Apr: 9:30am Discover prep: tour and coffee with the Head
Fri 13 Mar: 9:30am: Stay and play at Little Knellie’s Nursery
Thu 19 Mar: 9:30/10:30am: Meet the Head
Thu 30 Mar: 9am/10am: Meet the junior school Head
Thu 30 Mar: 9:30am/10:30am: Meet the Head
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For further details email editor@familiestvw.co.uk or call 07863 790592
Read Around the World with Leighton Park School
Leighton Park School is celebrating the National Literacy Trust’s National Year of Reading with an exciting initiative: Read Around the World. The challenge encourages an interest in other cultures and in literary traditions around the globe, tying in with the school’s inclusive outlook. Students are rewarded for different levels of achievement from reading one book from each continent (Bronze) to one book from every country in the world (Platinum).
At Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9) there is a timetabled Library lesson once per fortnight, a dedicated hour of silent reading for pleasure. Librarian, Rebecca Feghali, builds on the English curriculum by offering three popular co-curricular book clubs, one of which will be shadow judging the eight finalists of the 2026 Carnegie Medal, and the school is also looking forward to welcoming acclaimed YA author, Lisa Williamson, the week of World Book Day in March. www.leightonpark.com
The Power of a Shared Emotional Language
Crosfields School, in Reading, is embedding the Zones of Regulation curriculum to equip pupils with vital emotional awareness and self-regulation skills at every stage of their education.
Children learn to recognise the body signals, thoughts and feelings that indicate which ‘zone’ they are in and to reflect on whether their current state matches the demands of the moment. When they need to regulate, pupils independently select strategies from classroom sensory toolkits or draw on techniques practised with staff.
At the heart of the approach is a powerful shared language of emotion. From the youngest children in Nursery to students in Year 11, pupils can confidently articulate how they feel, understand the perspectives of others and respond with increasing empathy and maturity. www.crosfields.com
WINNER Independent Girls’ School of the Year 2024
Why all-girls?
16 May Book onto one of our events to see why.
Junior School
Event
9 May
Luckley House School welcomes a new Head
“My journey into Headship has been shaped by the wellbeing and happiness of young people - coupled with a commitment to educational excellence and a belief that schools flourish when ambition and care go hand in hand. At Luckley, I continue to be inspired by a community who live by the values of love, service and respect.
Looking to the future, I am excited by the opportunities ahead. The development of the additional five acres of land into new sports pitches will significantly enhance our provision.. This sits alongside my ambition to continue strengthening the school’s academic profile, fostering a culture where curiosity is celebrated and every pupil is encouraged to aspire and achieve.
I want every student to leave with strong qualifications, integrity and the confidence to contribute positively to the world. I am so proud of each and every one of them – they are the best thing about this school, with Copper the School Dog and the delicious food coming in at a close 2nd place!”
Claire Gilding-Brant, Head of Luckley House School www.luckleyhouseschool.org
St Joseph’s College offers tailored open events
At St Joseph’s College, every child is known as an individual, and this philosophy extends to the way families are welcomed to the school. Open events at St Joseph’s College are evolving to reflect the personalised approach it takes to education.
Whether you are considering the Prep or Senior School, monthly ‘Discover’ events offer a tailored experience. Families enjoy a personalised tour led by a current student, providing an authentic glimpse into school life. There is also the opportunity for an individual chat with the Head, ensuring your questions and priorities are fully addressed. Why not come and see for yourself? Visit St Joseph’s College and experience its caring, supportive and nurturing community first-hand. www.sjcr.org.uk
As a local school at the heart of the community, Queen Anne’s School is celebrating exceptional academic success after being ranked 7th nationally out of 344 independent schools for GCSE pupil progress, placing it firmly within the top 2% of schools across the UK.
School
The achievement puts this local girls’ school on the national stage and highlights the outstanding progress being made by students from the area. The ranking is based on Yellis value-added data, a nationally recognised assessment system provided by the Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring at the University of Cambridge. This data measures how much progress students make from the beginning of secondary school through to GCSE, offering a powerful insight into the impact of a school’s teaching and support.
The school is also celebrating that Queen Anne’s has been ranked 70th in the Top 200 Sports Schools of 2025 by Sports Schools Magazine, placing it in the top 1.5% of all schools in the UK, both state and independent. This national ranking celebrates performance above all else, drawing on results from over 20 different sports and more than 120 events, and is a testament to the breadth, quality and ambition of Queen Anne’s sporting programme and the hard work and dedication of its sports team.
www.qas.org.uk
Educating for the age of AI
By Issy Butson
Most people familiar with the AI space will tell you something that’s hard to hear and equally hard to believe - AI will likely replace a very significant amount of global entry level whitecollar jobs within the next five years. In the scale of our children’s lives, that’s effectively tomorrow.
As parents, we need to get our heads round the fact that the jobs that will be replaced will not be just low skilled jobs on factory lines, at cash registers or repetitive manual work.
We must also recognise that our education system is designed to train children for the world we have been used to - in other words, to teach them things that, now, technology has also mastered.
Preparing children for this future
Companies are already losing faith in education pipelines that aren’t producing adaptable, job-ready people. In their place, there is a rise in skill-based hiring and project portfolios that actually show what a person can do.
The future won’t care about qualifications. It will care whether you can think, build, solve problems, adapt and contribute in ways that a machine can’t.
Within the next ten years, the gap between what children are being trained for and what they’ll actually face in adulthood will just become too big to ignore.
So how do we guide children in a world that’s no longer structured around graduations, qualifications, employment, performance reviews, entry level roles and corporate ladders?
What do we build instead?
There is a tendency for our current education system to unintentionally stifle the qualities our children will most need in future – originality, independent thinking, risk taking and deep knowledge, rather than the broad, shallow knowledge needed to pass exams. We need to get serious about a different kind of preparation for adult life. One that accepts, fully, that the future will not reward people for what they memorised but for what they can build, navigate, initiate and solve.
EASTER
The Dinosaur That Pooped A Rock Show
Sat 28 Mar, 1 30pm & 4pm
Adapted from the number 1 best-seller, se and Dino come alive on stage! AT THE CORN EXCHANGE
The Eras Experience
Sun 29 Mar, 7pm
Step into the world of Taylor Swift, in this t that travels through all her eras
The Utterly Revolting Science Show
Tue 31 Mar, 11 30am & 4pm
Here are five real-world capabilities which form a much more deliberate and demanding kind of education.
Self-management and personal agency
In a world where job structures and set working hours are far less prevalent, your child will need to know how to manage themselves - not just their time but their energy, attention, output and emotion. These are skills most adults were never taught. Your child should start learning them now.
Deep work and independent problem-solving
Surface-level knowledge is everywhere. What matters is the ability to go deep - to focus without distraction, to stay with complexity and to work through problems that don’t have obvious answers.
Real-world skill development
Instead of ticking boxes, help your child build tangible, functional skills. Not just academic ones - practical, creative, technical and interpersonal. The kind that lead to useful output, adaptability and confidence. A lot of those skills won’t actually be needed for employment but all the good stuff they develop internally while building them will absolutely serve them well.
Relationship-building and collaboration
The most resilient people in the future will be the ones who know how to find their people, build things together and communicate across difference.
Identity development and direction-finding
In a world of almost infinite choice and no fixed paths, children are going to need a strong sense of who they are, what they care about and how to move toward it. That kind of direction doesn’t come from outside. It gets built, internally, over time. Make sure they develop that deep, strong sense. A child raised this way will build the muscles they’ll actually need in this changing world:
Motivation without any external pressure.
Adaptability when things change, because they will, over and over again.
Brace yourself for a hilarious journey through th human body! A fun pre-show workshop is avail
Confidence to try things they’ve never done before.
Patience to get good at something hard.
I believe we’re approaching one of the most fascinating periods of human history. But that we are woefully unprepared. So this is a call to parents who want to give their children a real head start. A call to step into this big unknown space and spend the next decade helping their children develop the resilience, confidence, adaptability and purpose that will serve them well regardless of where all this goes.
Issy Butson is the parent, home educator, blogger and Stark Raving Dad, as well as Head of Go To Market for a software company. To listen to Issy’s full podcast episode What every parent MUST know about the AI Generation, visit www.starkravingdadblog.com/what-every-parent-mustknow-about-the-ai-generation
Calmer bedtimes for toddlers and preschoolers
By Helen Davies
Bedtime during the toddler and pre-school years can feel like a completely different world compared to the days of getting your baby sleep. Even children who previously settled well can suddenly need ‘one more story,’ ‘one more cuddle’ or ‘one more drink’ the very moment the lights go out. Although it can feel frustrating or confusing for parents, rest assured most of these behaviours are rooted in normal development.
Between 18 months and age 5, children go through huge leaps in language and imagination development, independence, emotional awareness and physical ability. With all this progress comes new bedtime challenges. Many toddlers discover the power of ‘no’ while pre-schoolers become highly conversational and imaginative. Separation anxiety often reappears and a child who was once content to settle independently may suddenly now need a parent close by.
Much of this behaviour comes down to emotional regulation. Young children are still learning how to manage big feelings and bedtime is the moment the day slows down enough for everything to catch up with them. They may ask for extra cuddles not because they are being ‘difficult’ but because connection helps them switch off and feel safe enough to fall asleep. Sleep pressure also changes as children grow, meaning naps may need adjusting or bedtime may need shifting slightly later.
Parents can support calmer evenings by creating a consistent wind-down routine that meets both the child’s need for connection and their own need for boundaries. Predictability helps children feel safe, while gentle limits prevent bedtime from stretching indefinitely. Responding calmly, keeping routines simple and using language that’s clear and warm can make a noticeable difference.
It is also helpful to understand that bedtime delays, protests and multiple ‘get ups’ are often a sign of a child seeking reassurance or testing where the limits are. Neither is a sign of poor parenting. With a steady routine, plenty of connection and realistic expectations, most families find the bedtime wobbles pass.
The toddler and pre-school years are busy, emotional and full of growth. When parents understand the ‘why’ behind bedtime
Practical strategies for calmer evenings
A smoother bedtime routine starts long before you switch off the lights. Young children feel safest when they know what comes next, so introduce a consistent wind-down sequence and stick to it. Think bath (optional), pyjamas, books, cuddles, sleep. Avoid adding too many steps, as this can make it harder for both child and parent.
Connection is a key ingredient. Even five minutes of focused, oneto-one time before bed helps reduce the bedtime clinginess many families experience. This might be a cuddle, a chat about their day or looking at a book together.
Set clear limits around the common ‘stalling’ tactics. Let your child know you will answer one more question or read one extra page, then gently stick to it. A calm and predictable response prevents bedtime from spiralling.
Finally, check sleep timings. If your child is resisting bedtime, waking in the night or taking a long time to fall asleep, they may need slight adjustments to nap lengths or bedtime itself. Small shifts often make a big difference.
Helen Davies runs Essential Parenting (www.essentialparenting.co.uk), a trusted, private health visiting service providing expert support with sleep, behaviour and early childhood development.
Easter treats to make with the kids
By Charlotte Stirling-Reed
I LOVE Easter and all of the fun that comes around this time of year. Days are longer and warmer - and there’s all that delicious food! Here are two simple, family-friendly Easter recipes for you to enjoy making (and eating) together.
Easter Eggs
Ingredients
Dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference; small or large chocolate egg moulds.
Method
Chop the chocolate into small pieces and melt in a heatproof bowl over a small pan half full of boiling water.
Pour into Easter egg moulds, tilting so the chocolate covers the surface.
Place in the fridge until set.
Repeat the process a few times until the chocolate layer is about 1/2cm thick.
Optional: add a toy for older children (be careful with younger children and ensure they are supervised).
Brush melted chocolate around the rim before sticking both halves together.
Leave to set again - and enjoy!
With thanks to Charlotte Stirling Reed for these recipes. Charlotte is an award-winning nutritionist, author and podcaster who works with brands, celebrities and parents to share positive, evidence-based advice on giving children a healthy start in life.
More information at www.srnutrition.co.uk
Carrot Cake Hot Cross Buns
A twist on traditional hot cross buns, these are sweetened with a combination of orange juice, carrots and raisins or sultanas. They are dairy free too! And great toasted…
Prep: 10 minutes + 2-2 ½ hours proving time
Cooking: 20 mins
Makes: about 12 buns
Ingredients
250ml plant-based milk alternative
50g plant-based spread
500g strong bread flour
50ml orange juice
7g sachet fast-action dried yeast
1½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Flour for dusting
2 medium carrots, peeled and grated (dab off excess moisture if you can, using kitchen roll)
200g raisins or sultanas
Method
In a small saucepan, warm the milk and then add the fat spread. Once the fat spread has melted, turn off the heat and leave it to cool slightly.
Add the flour, yeast and spices to a large bowl.
When the milk has cooled to lukewarm, make a well in the centre of the flour mixture, then pour in the warm milk mixture along with the orange juice.
Mix well with a wooden spoon, then use your hands to bring everything together into a sticky dough. Now add the peeled and grated carrots and all of the raisins. Combine into the dough. Tip: If your mixture seems too dry and is not coming together, add more milk gradually. Or if your mixture seems to wet, then add some flour gradually until you can form a dough.
On a lightly floured work surface, knead the dough until smooth, about 5 minutes by hand (or in a stand mixer with a dough hook if you have one).
Lightly dust a bowl with flour and add the dough. Cover the bowl with a tea towel and leave to rise in a warm place until doubled in size (around 1-1 ½ hours).
Heat the oven to 200C/400F and line two baking trays with baking parchment.
Divide the dough into 12 equal-sized pieces and shape into small round buns. Place them onto baking tray, leaving space for them to expand. Leave to rise again until doubled in size (approx 1 hour).
Use a knife to slice a cross in each bun.
Bake for 20 mins or until golden brown then allow to cool on a wire rack.
Optional: To add a traditional white cross, before baking, gradually mix together 70g flour with 1 tbsp of water to create a thick, pipeable paste. Spoon into a piping bag and use a small round nozzle to pipe crosses on the buns.
Spring gardening projects children will love
By Ellie Malt
With the promise of spring all around, we don’t need science to remind us that getting hands-on in the garden is a fantastic, sensory-rich antidote to device time, which helps children reconnect with nature.
There is, actually, plenty of evidence to show how simply having access to green spaces reduces emotional dysregulation in children and teenagers. Gardening can help reduce stress, improve cognitive functioning, build self-esteem and improve physical health.¹
While the specific claim that simply touching soil is a direct ‘cure’ for mental health problems is not fully established, some studies do show associations and plausible mechanisms like serotonin release and microbiome effects.²
Keen to get them out there and digging in the dirt? The key is choosing projects and plants that suit their interests and their age while tweaking your involvement. Gardening with children isn’t about perfection. Plants will fail; seedlings may be overwatered and fairy gardens might be repeatedly rearranged. What matters is shared time, learning and the joy of watching children grow alongside their garden.
Sources: ¹ Bowler, et al., 2010; Hartig, et al., 2014; ² National Wildlife Federation, 2012.
Veggie plot
Growing food is not only biology in action but it is also a very satisfying experience. In our culture of immediate gratification, it is particularly good for teaching how rewarding a longer-term commitment can be. It can also be a great way to help younger children physically connect with where their food comes from.
Raised beds, grow bags or large containers are ideal for little gardeners. Under 5s can sow large seeds, water plants, watch for growth and taste what they harvest, with supervision. Those ages 5+ can help choose crops, plant seeds at the correct depth, label rows and maintain watering and weeding schedules. Children ages 9+ can manage a small plot independently, plan crop rotation, troubleshoot pests and take responsibility for harvesting.
PLANTS TO TRY
Under 5s: Broad beans, peas, radishes: large seeds, fastgrowing, easy to harvest.
5-8s: Lettuce, spring onions, courgettes: quick-growing, simple to care for, visually satisfying.
9-12s: Runner beans, potatoes, strawberries, tomatoes: more complex crops that teach planning, spacing and responsibility.
Sensory garden
A sensory garden involves touch, sight, smell and sound. This gentle exposure outdoors is especially helpful for those who are sensitive to textures or flavours. It instinctively appeals to children who enjoy hands-on exploration and is perfect for small spaces, containers or raised beds.
Under 5s can pat soil, water and smell herbs. Keep sessions very short and playful. Slightly older children can help choose plants, space seedlings and water on a routine. Ask them to observe and note changes.
Tweens can get involved in planning garden layout, researching pollinator-friendly plants and taking responsibility for deadheading and recording growth.
PLANTS TO TRY
Under 5s: Lamb’s ear, mint, lemon balm: soft, fragrant and safe to handle.
5-8s: Sunflowers, cosmos, lavender: colourful, easy from seed, great for observation.
Combining horticulture with imaginative play, fairy gardens are perfect for children who enjoy storytelling and craft. They work well in pots, old containers or even sheltered corners. Let the youngest children arrange the fairy figures and natural decorations. Supervise gently to protect plants. Children can talk about their ideas, explain their garden and often play collaboratively, supporting vocabulary and co-operation.
Children ages 5+ can start designing small structures, planting, watering and adding storytelling elements as the ‘fairy garden carers.’ Tweens can branch out into planning themed gardens (not necessarily fairy-themed), learn plant requirements for shade and water and build miniature structures from natural materials.
PLANTS TO TRY
Under 5s: Moss, thyme, small hardy flowers: easy to handle and ideal for arranging miniatures.
5-8s: Nasturtiums, marigolds, violas: colourful and edible, perfect for hands-on planting.
9-12s: Miniature ferns, cosmos, dwarf grasses: great for themed designs and more complex maintenance.
Fairy garden
Ellie Malt is a mum of two daughters living in Surrey.
Cow’s milk allergy and the Milk Ladder
By Emma Shafqat
I have both professional and personal experience with cow’s milk allergies; when my daughter was twelve months old, we made our first attempt to climb the Milk Ladder.
Unfortunately, once past steps one and two, we couldn’t get any further. Lots of crying and vomiting prompted us to take a break. After two more attempts and feeling like there would be so many food related occasions we could never enjoy together as a family, we finally reached the top of the ladder when my daughter was three and a half… although - between you and me - she still flatly refuses cow’s milk, claiming she can’t have it, despite happily eating ice cream and drinking chocolate milkshakes!
What is a cow’s milk allergy?
Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) is an abnormal response by the body’s immune system in which the proteins in cow’s milk are recognised as a potential threat. It is estimated to affect around 7% of babies under the age of one, although most children grow out of it by the age of five (NHS, 2019).
The two main types of CMPA
IgE-mediated: typically rapid onset (within minutes and up to two hours after ingestion)
Non-IgE-mediated: typically delayed onset (usually two to 72 hours after ingestion)
These two different types of allergies come with similar but slightly different signs and symptoms. They can include itchy skin, a rash, atopic eczema, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, coughing, chest tightness, wheezing or shortness of breath.
IgE-mediated can also cause acute flare up, swelling of the lips, face or around the eyes, nausea, sneezing and congestion. NonIgE mediated can also cause gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), loose or frequent poos, constipation, redness around the anus, blood and/or mucus in the poo, colic, tiredness, food refusal or aversion and faltering growth with at least one or more gastrointestinal symptoms.
If your child has other symptoms, that does not mean they don’t have a food allergy. If you think your little one is having a reaction to cow’s milk, see your GP. Make sure you get medical advice before taking cow’s milk out of your child’s diet.
is the Milk Ladder
The Milk Ladder is a six-step technique of reintroducing your child to cow’s milk slowly so that their tolerance builds gradually. It is only suitable for children with mild to moderate non-IgEmediated allergies and you should always seek medical advice first. I recommend referring to the official iMAP Guide for details.
Put simply, the Milk Ladder starts with more broken-down forms of milk, like biscuits or pancakes and builds up to things like yoghurt and cheese, until eventually your child can have fresh milk. This is because when milk is heated or baked, the protein changes so it is less allergenic.
If your child has a reaction at any of the steps, stop and contact your health care professional before starting again. Once you have reached the top of the ladder, switch to cow’s milk in all food and cereals at breakfast.
Use the QR code to see the iMAP guide with the six steps on the Milk Ladder. If you are struggling with CMPA and would like more support, visit www.dietitianwithadifference. co.uk and book a customised cow’s milk reintroduction plan. With thanks to Bespoke Family (www.bespokefamily.co.uk) for this article.
Dr Gemma Rowland, Clinical Psychologist, tells us about what Berkshire Psychology has to offer:
‘Children and young people can too easily fall between the gaps of services, particularly when their needs do not fit neatly into existing systems. For many children, mainstream settings may struggle to offer the level of individualised support required, while special schools may feel inaccessible or inappropriate.
When a child does not meet clear thresholds for either setting, they can be left without the understanding and support they need to thrive. Parents can feel their concerns are not heard as their child is ‘fine in school’, but at home, struggles with explosive outbursts, or appears withdrawn and low.
This is where high-quality assessment and diagnosis can make a critical difference. A diagnosis is not about placing a label on a child; rather, it is about developing a deep understanding of their unique neurodevelopmental profile. A robust diagnostic process helps to identify a child’s strengths as well as the areas that are more difficult. This understanding allows families and professionals to move towards targeted, meaningful support.
Our diagnostic approach is neuroaffirmative, recognising neurodiversity as a natural variation of human experience rather than a deficit. We take time to build a holistic picture of each child, considering their emotional wellbeing, sensory needs, communication style, and daily functioning. In a system where support is often only unlocked once difficulties reach crisis point, this understanding matters.
Personalised reports can help prevent children being mislabelled as ‘naughty’ or ‘difficult’, reduce blame directed at families, and access support earlier. While SEN reform is urgently needed at a systemic level, families cannot afford to wait for policy change while their children struggle.
Many members of our team bring lived experience of neurodivergence, either personally or via loved ones. We understand not only the clinical criteria, but also the real-world challenges families face when navigating education, health, and social care systems.
We can also direct families towards post-diagnostic support, including therapy and psychiatric review where appropriate.
We are also pleased to welcome our dedicated SEND consultant, Emma Fearn, offering specialist support to help families navigate the SEN process within schools and advocate for appropriate provision.’ www.berkshirepsychology.co.uk
Autism and ADHD Assessment Clinic
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.
Getting your family on the same page
By Ann Magalhaes
Before the start of term, a friend of mine invites her sons to what has become a ritual: their family meeting. Instigated when they were in primary school, the whole family sees the value in contributing to these get-togethers. Family life feels calmer and more predictable, with everyone on the same page.
While my friend uses family meetings mainly for back-to-school organisation, they can be useful for so much more. They cover what’s coming up, what might not be going so well and how to move forward together as a team. Meetings work well ahead of big transitions: a new school or term, an upcoming event or changes within the family.
Why are these meetings such a powerful parenting tool? Because children feel included. They’re more likely to buy into plans when they’ve had a say and even if they don’t express it, they appreciate the clarity that comes from knowing what to expect.
Family meetings reduce chaos, avoid last-minute surprises and help manage expectations around responsibilities, activities and changes of routine. We’re used to having meetings at work; this really isn’t that different.
Here are some well-tested tips:
Have an agenda
A clear agenda helps everyone see what will be discussed and creates a natural to-do list. When children contribute ideas and see them written down, they feel heard and valued and are far more motivated to follow through.
The calendar
Create a simple monthly calendar for the term. Start with birthdays, school events, sports fixtures, playdates, assigning each child their own colour. Then invite your children to add things they’d like to do. This naturally leads to conversations about responsibilities too. Who helps with what? Who prefers feeding the dog rather than walking him? The bonus for parents: less nagging and more chances to acknowledge your children’s contributions.
Clear expectations
Busy schedules, homework, sleep and limited downtime all add pressure. Talking through expectations for screen time, bedtimes, getting ready for school or homework helps everyone feel prepared. By planning ahead, things are more likely to go right and it’s easier for you to stay calm when they don’t. Oh – and have some favourite snacks on hand to help make the meeting a warm, inviting place for conversation.
Ann Magalhaes is co-founder of The Parent Team (www.theparent.team), parenting educators offering classes, workshops and private sessions, teaching evidence-based parenting skills and offering parents practical, effective support.
Join this lively event on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May for a vibrant weekend packed with entertainment and discovery, celebrating 100 years of the University of Reading.
On Saturday, enjoy live music, inspiring research talks, sports taster sessions and delicious street food on the university’s beautiful Whiteknights campus. Then on Sunday, head to Forbury Gardens as the university’s historic RAG Parade makes its long-awaited return.
This is always a busy and varied event, but this year the university turns 100 and there is even more to celebrate!
Clubs & Classes Directory
Please get in touch if you would like to be included in our directory: editor@familiestvw.co.uk
DEVELOPMENTAL CLASSES
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.
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
DRAMA & DANCE
Alison-Jayne School of Dance
www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
GDTennis
Over 3,000 children joined our LTA Qualified Coach Led Tennis Camps last year. We have 25 years’ experience running camps for ages 5-15, developing tennis and movement skills. Multiple locations across Berkshire. Term Time lessons also available. All equipment provided, all levels, and beginners are welcome. Tax Free Childcare accepted. info@gdtennis.co.uk / 01189477885 www.gdtennis.co.uk
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
Feature your club or class in our next issue, call Lesley on 07863 790592, or email editor@familiestvw.co.uk
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
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.
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
Easter activities
This is a great time of year to rediscover the joy of being outdoors, and our fantastic local venues have loads of great family activities going on over the Easter season.
21 Mar-12 Apr
Easter Adventures at Basildon Park, near Pangbourne
Make your way along an adventure trail to celebrate Easter and find activities for the whole family. Come along and explore the beautiful parkland and gardens of Basildon Park. 10am-5pm nationaltrust.org.uk/basildon-park
21 Mar-12 Apr
Easter Adventures at Greys Court, near Henley
Come along and explore the beautiful parkland and gardens of Greys Court with an Easter trail. 10am-5pm nationaltrust.org.uk/greys-court
28 Mar-12 Apr
Children’s Funfair at Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst Come and join the fun of the fair with J&B Events at Dinton pastures, free entry with lots of free activities for the kids. Located on the Events Field behind the Cafe, Davis Street entrance. 11am-7pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
28 Mar-12 Apr
Easter at Tumblestone Hollow at Stonor Park, Henley
An exciting selection of wholesome fun awaits! Discover an Easter trail, craft activities and storytelling sessions, all within the picturesque backdrop of Stonor Park’s gardens and woodland adventure playground. stonor.com
28 Mar-12 Apr
Easter Eggstravaganza at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Thatcham
Join a journey inspired by a classic early 20th-century children’s tale, where imagination runs wild and some of your most beloved characters come to life. 4-kingdoms.co.uk
28 Mar-12 Apr
Sheep at Shaw House Trail, Shaw House, Newbury
Explore the House to find six sheep on this springtime trail! Along the way discover facts about the Elizabethan cloth trade, the business that funded the build of Shaw House. westberkshireheritage.org
28 Mar-12 Apr
Spring Has Sprung at Wellington Country Park, Riseley
Celebrate all things spring with a mix of creativity, imagination, and outdoor adventure. Try your hand at circus workshops on the main green, step into an enchanting Easter garden role-play experience, and discover the magic of the season with your very own nature booklet to guide your explorations. 9:30am-4:30pm wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk
28 Mar-12 Apr
Spring into Easter at Odds Farm Park, near Beaconsfield
Headlining the choc-o-bloc line up is The Bee Show starring Captain Buzz Bee and Wing Commander
Honey who are on a springtime mission to ‘bee the best they can bee’ as they prepare for the arrival of the Queen Bee. The farm’s annual Easter-themed scavenger hunt is also back, and visiting children can eggs-plore the farm for clues to track down a chocolate-y treat. oddsfarm.co.uk
29 Mar-12 Apr
Easter Holidays: Future London at London Transport Museum
Imagine how we might travel a hundred years in the future. Take part in fun family activities, creating your own visions of London in 2126. ltmuseum.co.uk
30 Mar-2 Apr
Junior Sailing Weeks at Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst Progress through the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Youth Sailing Scheme, through the syllabus to work up from a beginner level to more advanced techniques and bigger boats. 9:30am-4:30pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
30 Mar-10 Apr
Easter Wild Days at Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst These sessions are designed to bring excitement and new challenges to every day off! Each session offers young adventurers a chance to explore thrilling sports on land and water, set against the beautiful backdrop of Black Swan Lake. 9:30am-4:30pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
3-6 Apr
Easter Eggstravaganza at Wellington Country Park, Riseley Wellington Country Park’s Easter Eggstravaganza is packed with dazzling entertainment, crafty fun and adventures for the whole family. Enjoy spectacular circus performances in the big top, laugh along with panto style shows in the white tent and get creative with Junk Jodie’s crafts on the main green. 9:30am-4:30pm wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk
7-12 Apr
Midnight in the Toyshop at St Martin’s Theatre, London Step inside a magical toyshop where toys spring to life as the clock strikes midnight. Packed with catchy songs, dazzling dances and heart-warming storytelling, Midnight in the Toyshop is a delightful musical the whole family will adore. perform.org.uk
7-12 Apr
The Wind in the Willows at South Hill Park, Bracknell Based on Kenneth Grahame’s bestselling classic of children’s literature, The Wind in the Willows is a wild, thrill-seeking tale. This riotous musical comedy follows Mole, Rat, Badger and the impulsive Mr Toad, whose insatiable need for speed lands him in serious trouble. southhillpark.org.uk
Make a bee-line for a buzzing day out at Odds Farm Park this Easter
Families on the hunt for an Easter eggs-perience should hop along to Odds Farm Park, near Beaconsfield, between Saturday 28 March and Sunday 12 April to enjoy its annual Spring into Easter event.
The 35-acre leisure attraction will be buzzing with activity every day of the two-week school holiday this Easter.
Headlining the choc-o-bloc line up is The Bee Show starring Captain Buzz Bee and Wing Commander Honey who are on a springtime mission to ‘bee the best they can bee’ as they prepare for the arrival of the Queen Bee.
The farm’s annual Easter-themed scavenger hunt is also back and visiting children can eggs-plore the farm for clues to track down a chocolate-y treat.
And with the farm’s outdoor programme underway, a number of activities will be reopening for the warmer weather including outdoor H20dds water play area, the Tractor and Trailer rides and Marmalade’s Mini Rovers – a course featuring child-sized Land Rovers to drive.
For more information, call 01628 520188, visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk, or like and follow @OddsFarmPark on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest news and updates.
Creativity, excitement and adventure at The Beehive
Easter Holiday Clubs
Dive into 2 weeks of fun, friends and unforgettable adventures at The Beehive Easter Holiday Clubs, packed with brilliant activities for every 3–11-year-old!
Join The Beehive at Crown Wood or Nine Mile Ride Primary Schools for a buzzing line-up. Activities include:
• Scooter workshop with world record holder, Terry Price!*
EASTEREASTER
• Pet and feed the animals from Basil & Crew Mobile Farm*
• Meet the fascinating Berkshire Birds of Prey
• Play Quidditch for Muggles!*
• Be entertained with a Punch & Judy Show
• Learn woodworking skills with Seed of Play*
• Make an Italian Pizza with the Pizzatarian* PLUS daily arts & crafts, games, baking, sports, toys and endless opportunities for imaginative play.
Full days: 8am–6pm, £45 (activities marked with * incur an additional £5).
Open to all children aged 3–11 from 30 March-10 April. The Beehive Holiday Clubs make booking simple with easy online registration, secure payments, childcare vouchers accepted and a 10% sibling discount. www.beehiveclub.co.uk
What’s on
March/April 2026
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.
MARCH
1 Mar
Chinese New Year Market in The Broadway, Thatcham Celebrating the Year of the Horse with a day of food, culture, and community. Food lovers can look forward to an exciting selection of Asian cuisine, including Japanese dumplings and bento boxes, authentic rice balls with flavourful fillings, aromatic Thai dishes, Indonesian specialities, and a tempting range of beautifully crafted sweet treats and desserts. 10am-4pm thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk
1 Mar
The Greys Court Quest Half Term Trail, near Henley Solve the riddles and find out who’s hiding amongst the gardens. Grab your free trail sheet from visitor reception and venture into the world of Greys Court. 10am-5pm nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ oxfordshire-buckinghamshireberkshire/greys-court
1 Mar
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Reading Come and discuss the FCBG Children’s Book Award for 2026.
Suitable for ages 5-8. 10am-11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
1 Mar Lunar New Year at Market Place, Wokingham
The lion dance, one of the most important traditions at Chinese New Year, will be performed in the heart of the town alongside music, arts and crafts. In Chinese culture, the lion symbolizes power, wisdom, and superiority. 11am-3pm wokinghamrocks.co.uk
1 Mar
Chinese New Year Celebration 2026 at Town Hall, Reading Reading Chinese School, in partnership with Reading Borough Council, BID and local schools and communities bring you a whole day celebration event at Reading Town Hall. Activities include traditional Chinese workshops, a festival street parade, wonderful outdoor performances and a brilliant live performance at Reading Concert Hall. 1:30pm whatsonreading.com
1 Mar
Ministry of Science Live at the Hexagon, Reading Over the last few years Science has led the way in getting our lives back to normal. Now, the UK’s favourite
science team are back and more explosive than ever! 12:30pm whatsonreading.com
1 and 2 Mar
The Very Hungry Caterpillar at South Hill Park, Bracknell
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show has been dazzling audiences around the globe for over seven years, faithfully bringing to the stage Eric Carle’s timeless classics. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, this holiday season production of the critically acclaimed show features a menagerie of over 75 magical puppets, including the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar. southhillpark.org.uk
7 Mar Reading Card Show at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Reading Whether you’re passionate about Pokémon cards, other TCGs, or rare and vintage collectibles, this show is the perfect place to buy, sell, and trade with fellow collectors. Vendors from across the region will
be showcasing a wide array of cards, from modern releases to hard-tofind classics. 10am whatsonreading.com
7 Mar
A 17th Century Day Out at Shaw House, Newbury Immerse yourself in history with a day out in the 17th Century with The Earl Rivers Regiment Muster (Members of The Sealed Knot). Discover what life was like for those who had to take up arms against their fellow countrymen. 11am-4pm westberkshireheritage.org
7 Mar Counting Sheeps by the Herd at South Street Arts Centre, Reading Snuggle up and join two sheep on a journey through the joys and frustrations of everything bedtime. A touching, musical adventure filled with sensory play, for 0–3-year-olds and their (very tired) grown ups. 11:30am/2pm whatsonreading.com
WHAT’S ON
12 Mar
Mother’s Day Glass Workshop at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
Enjoy a relaxing evening creating some beautiful fused artwork. You’ll be able to choose your own colours and designs and will be shown how to create your own unique glass artwork in the format of our beautiful butterflies with two wings to decorate - you can choose to have them finished as either a hanging decoration or a plant stake. 6pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
13-15 Mar
The Gruffalo’s Child at the Corn Exchange Newbury
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. Let your imagination run wild with songs, laughs and scary fun for everyone aged 3 to 103. cornexchangenew.com
14 Mar
Mother and Child Ceramic Painting at Loulou’s Crafts and More, Crowthorne
Pottery painting in a dedicated craft room, with so many coloured paints and choice of ceramics to paint, from tea light holders, money banks to trinket dishes, including festive ones for the occasion. Refreshments provided. 10am-4pm wokinghamrocks.co.uk
14 and 15 Mar
Mother’s Day at 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park, Thatcham Mums go FREE with a paid ticket. Plus, treat Mum to a FREE drink –because she deserves it! 4-kingdoms.co.uk
14 and 15 Mar
Fourbears Fest at various venues in Caversham, Reading
Two days of events with Steve Antony, Harriet Muncaster, Yuval Zommer and Eve Wersocki-Morris, plus story time for the under 5s. fourbearsbooks.co.uk/fourbearsfest
15 Mar
Mother’s Day Arts and Crafts and Dinton Pastures, Hurst
Calling all creative parents and little artisans! Head to the Dinton Activity Centre for a Mother’s Day crafting extravaganza at the Coffee Deck Café! 10am-3pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
15 Mar The Gruffalo’s Child: Pre-show Workshop at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Join artist Gemma Kirby to create a pet Gruffalo puppet using different shapes, materials and textures. Get creative before you join the wonderful adventure, The Gruffalo’s Child. 10am/1pm cornexchangenew.com
15 Mar
Mumma Mia Mother’s Day Live Sing-Along Lunch at Village Hall, Bracknell
Delicious 2-course meal from a Mother’s Day set menu with a glass of fizz included for all mums. Sing-along to all the hit songs from the movie Mamma Mia with other classic ABBA tunes, performed by live Mumma Mia singers. 12pm wokinghamrocks.co.uk
19 and 20 Mar
Under the Sea at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell There’s always plenty for toddlers to
enjoy and explore at the Look Out Discovery Centre and on toddler days there are extra special activities for children up to age 5, including face painting, story time, sensory activities and arts and crafts. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisureand-events/look-out-discoverycentre
19-21 Mar
Swallows and Amazons at Watermill Theatre, Newbury Set sail with the Walkers for Wild Cat Island, where the adventures are daring and the schemes bold. Transforming the everyday into a world of extraordinary adventure, this new Watermill Theatre Youth Ensemble production celebrates the boundless possibilities of play and imagination – proof that sometimes the greatest voyages begin at home. watermill.org.uk
22 Mar
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Reading Come and chat about the books on the shortlist for the 2026 FCBG Children’s Book Award. Suitable for ages 9-11. 10am-11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
24 Mar
Storytime in the Café at Dinton Pastures, Hurst Meet at the Coffee Deck for a delightful short story with Wokingham Libraries - perfect for a little mid-morning fun! 11am wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
28 Mar
The Dinosaur that Pooped: A Rock Show at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Adapted from the number 1 bestselling book by Tom Fletcher and Dougie Poynter from McFly, the whole family will have a poopy good time enjoying a brand-new story for the stage. Featuring new songs by Tom and Dougie, a lot of laughs and a whole lot of poo! 1:30pm/4pm cornexchangenew.com
28 and 29 Mar
Mad4Animals Show at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
Not only will you see a highly entertaining show, but directly afterwards there will also be a chance for you to get your hands on some of the animals in the show and even have pictures with giant snakes! 10:30am/1pm/3pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
29 Mar
The Eras Experience: Taylor Swift Tribute by Xenna at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Step into the unparalleled world of Taylor Swift in this electrifying tribute show featuring Xenna as Taylor. Get ready to enjoy Taylor Swift’s greatest hits. 7pm cornexchangenew.com
30 Mar
The Golden Egg Escapade at Sonning Common Village Hall
Hop into an Easter-themed LEGO workshop full of springtime creativity and fun. Suitable for ages 5+. 9:30am-11:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
30 Mar
Museums, My Way at Reading Museum
Special craft sessions based on the museum’s Easter events aimed at neurodivergent visitors and their families to complement regular Saturday sessions. There will be a breakout room, quiet areas with
tents and cushions and sensory bags will be available. 10am/11:15am readingmuseum.org.uk
31 Mar
The Utterly Revolting Science Show: Pre-show Workshop at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Join artist Gemma Kirby for this fantastically messy workshop to create your own slime dough, adding colour to make it look really disgusting! 10:30am/3pm cornexchangenew.com
31 Mar
The Utterly Revolting Science Show at the Corn Exchange Newbury
A spectacular, hilarious and highly explosive science stunt show. Brace yourselves for the Rude Science team’s hilarious and hightech, journey through the human body, packed with burp biology, fart physics and revolting edible chemistry. cornexchangenew.com
APRIL
1 Apr
Family Activity Day at Shaw House, Newbury
Decorate a polystyrene egg with paint pens, sequins and other craft materials so it’s ready for an Easter egg hunt! Aimed at 7–11-year-olds, but younger and older children are welcome. 10am-2pm westberkshireheritage.org
1-4 Apr
Seussical at The Kenton Theatre, Henley
The award–winning Reading Operatic Society is privileged to return to The Kenton Theatre with a special fun-filled Easter treat for the whole family. Seussical is a fantastical, magical, musical extravaganza, which tells the story of Dr. Seuss’s favourite characters including Horton the Elephant, The Cat in the Hat, Gertrude McFuzz, Mayzie LaBird, and a child with a big imagination – Jojo. thekenton.org.uk
2 Apr
Messy Museum Morning at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury Greet Spring by choosing a themed ceramic hanging decoration to decorate with porcelain pens and
other craft materials. Subject to availability, choose between a bunny, chick, lamb, egg or butterfly. westberkshireheritage.org
6 Apr
Easter Fair at Cantley Park, Wokingham
Includes free bunny meet & greets, classic cars, an Easter-themed treasure trail, face painting and more! 11am-4pm wokinghamrocks.co.uk
7-9 Apr
Family Easter Trail: Find the Fox Cubs at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
Come and enjoy fresh air and wildlife discoveries as you help mother fox find her missing cubs and discover the other baby animals hiding in the woods, ponds and meadows. A fun family trail for Easter with a small chocolate prize at the end. 10am-3pm bbowt.org.uk/events
7-9 Apr
Easter Fox Crafts for Children at Nature Discovery Centre, Thatcham
Bring the children along to make a range of Foxy crafts. 10am-3pm bbowt.org.uk/events
8 Apr
The Golden Egg Escapade at Badgemore Primary School, Henley
It’s the night before the Grand Opening of the Bricksville Museum, and there has been a break in. Bricksville Police department need the help of the Master Builders to catch those crooks and solve the crime! 9:30am–11:30am masterbuildersclub.co.uk
8 Apr
Family Activity Day at Shaw House, Newbury
Make a rocking sheep or lamb from a paper plate, cotton wool, pom poms, wiggle eyes, markers, glue and other craft materials. Aimed at 7-11-yearolds, but younger and older children are welcome. 10am-2pm westberkshireheritage.org
8 Apr
Mr Sleepy Bum at The Kenton Theatre, Henley
This award-winning interactive show is filled with sketches, slapstick and
Activities and fun at The Look Out Discovery Centre
Visit the science exhibition at The Look Out Discovery Centre with over 90 activities which children of all ages can enjoy and learn from. They also have an extensive outdoor playground and there are some great cycle trails too.
This Easter, look out for their Spy Science Show as your children enter a world of forensics, fingerprints and detective work! The show runs during the local school holidays and at weekends from the end of March to mid-June.
silliness, ensuring maximum fun for the whole family. Mr Sleepybum is a critically acclaimed, awardwinning kids comedy show created by character comedian Jody Kamali. 11am/2pm thekenton.org.uk
8 and 9 Apr
Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show at the Hexagon, Reading Peppa Pig and friends are back in their brand-new live stage show! The show is packed full of music, adventure and surprises for little ones and is the perfect introduction to theatre. whatsonreading.com
9 Apr
The Golder Egg Escapade at Reading Town Hall
Hop into an Easter-themed LEGO workshop full of springtime creativity and fun. Suitable for LEGO fans aged 5+. 11:30am-1:30pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk
9 Apr
WiFi Wars’ Easter Extravaganza and South Street Arts Centre, Reading
From classic TV game shows to zen-like word puzzles, from retro video games to modern first-person shooters, WiFi Wars has something for everyone. 3pm/7pm whatsonreading.com
10 Apr
The Golden Egg Escapade at The Heights Primary School, Caversham It’s the night before the Grand Opening of the Bricksville Museum, and there has been a break in. Bricksville Police department need the help of the Master Builders to catch those crooks and solve the crime! 2:30pm-4:30pm masterbuildersclub.co.uk
10 Apr
Messy Museum Morning at West Berkshire Museum, Newbury
Make a rocking rooster or a pecking hen from a colourful paper plate, tissue paper, feathers, glue and other craft materials. New and complementary free trails available from the activity trolley in room 1. 10am-1pm westberkshireheritage.org
11 Apr
Highclere Castle’s Easter Egg Trail
Explore the gardens and woodland and discover the Highclere Castle Easter Egg Trail. At the end of the trail, each child will win a chocolate Easter Egg or an alternative dairyfree treat! 10am-2:30pm highclerecastleshop.co.uk
10-12 Apr
Wind in the Willows at the Corn Exchange Newbury
Come along for the ride with the Corn Exchange’s Infant and Junior Youth Theatre, as they tell the wondrous tale of the Wild Wood and its inhabitants. This fun-filled adventure follows Mole, Rat, Badger, and the wild Mr Toad, whose love for fast vehicles gets him into big trouble. 1pm/6pm cornexchange.com
11 Apr
Top Secret the Magic of Science – High Voltage at The Kenton Theatre, Henley
Fusing the mystery of magic with wondrous and miraculous feats of science. Hang on to your seats and experience a non-stop action packed interactive magical science show with experiments and magic that will capture the imagination. 2pm thekenton.org.uk
12 Apr
Love Local Artisan Fair at Shaw House, Newbury
Celebrate all things local and explore unique craft across over 70 stalls throughout the House and outside. For younger visitors there will be themed craft and colouring in our Activity Room and trail sheets to explore the house with. 11am-3pm westberkshireheritage.org
17 and 18 Apr
Newbury YoungStars present: We Will Rock You Young@Part® at Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury We Will Rock You Young@Part® is the authorised youth edition of Queen and Ben Elton’s smash-hit West End musical. Packed with legendary Queen songs, this highenergy show is a celebration of music, individuality, and the power of standing up for what you believe in. arlingtonarts.ticketsolve.com
fun with Squire’s Create & Grow activities!
Keep little hands busy and creativity blooming over the Easter holidays with Squire’s Create & Grow activities! Come and plant a colourful spring basket. Let children get hands-on, planting three vibrant flowers in a charming wicker basket finished with a wooden Easter bunny topper. There is also a Spring Hunt (£2.50). Participants need to follow the clues around the garden centre, uncover the magic word and claim a chocolate treat (vegan-friendly treats available)! Book online at www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk/whats-on
19 Apr
Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Reading Come and discover lots of fiction and non-fiction about pets large and small. Suitable for ages 5-11. 10am-11am fourbearsbooks.co.uk
19 Apr
Rapunzel at South Hill Park, Bracknell
Let your hair down and get tangled in a brand-new musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale, RAPUNZEL! 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, dazzling costumes and animated scenery! 1:30pm/4:30pm southhillpark.org.uk
23 and 24 Apr
Bugs and Beasties at the Look Out Discovery Centre, Bracknell There’s lots for toddlers to enjoy and explore at the Look Out Discovery Centre and on toddler days there are extra special activities for children up to age 5. This includes face painting, story time sessions, sensory activities and arts and crafts. bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisureand-events/look-out-discoverycentre
25 Apr
Reading Vegan Fiesta 2026 in Forbury Gardens, Reading
Join Sparkle Vegan Events to enjoy 40 stalls with delicious street food, dairy-free bakes, nut-based cheeses, handmade jewellery, eco-friendly gifts, charity stands and much more. There will also be giveaways, feelgood music and free entertainment. 11am-4pm whatsonreading.com
25 and 26 Apr
Reading Brick Show 2026 at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Reading
The Reading Brick Show is one of the largest LEGO® shows in the UK. It brings together fantastic LEGO® models made by the most talented builders, alongside lots of fun games and activities for all ages. 10am-5pm whatsonreading.com
26 Apr
JL Events Spring Fair at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
Get ready for a day filled with excitement, laughter, and unforgettable memories! Grab your friends and family and join a day packed with fun under the sun! 10am-4pm wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
28 Apr
Storytime in the Café at Dinton Pastures, Hurst
Meet at the Coffee Deck for a delightful short story with Wokingham Libraries - perfect for a little mid-morning fun! 11am wokinghamcountryside.co.uk/ events
Don’t forget to say you saw these events listed in Families Thames Valley West Magazine!
