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IN THIS ISSUE
Education special Clubs and classes What’s on Issue 144 September/October 2026
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CONTENTS
Editor’s Welcome September can be a bit of a jolt, but it’s also reassuring to get back to the routine of the academic year, and there are so many adventures and things to learn in the school year ahead!
The Team: EDITOR: Lesley Chambers 07863 790592 editor@familiestvw.co.uk
We focus on education in this issue, including meeting the new Headteacher at the Oratory Prep School on page 7 and looking at AI, which has become so ubiquitous these days, on page 10. Please get in touch if you have a school or early years setting story to share on these pages!
SALES SUPPORT: Natasha Gudgeon 07767 893807 natasha@familiespublishing.co.uk DESIGN: Rebecca Carr rebecca@familiesmagazine.co.uk
It’s a great time of year to think about new extracurricular activities too, and I hope you enjoy our clubs and classes section, with some excellent local clubs to choose from, along with an article on sport for children.
NEXT ISSUE: NOVEMBER/DECEMBER Booking deadline: 2 October Feature: Festive season
I hope you have a great start to the 2026-2027 year!
IN THIS ISSUE: 4-5
News
6-11
Education
12
Food
13
Autumn craft
14
Parenting
15
Health
16-17
Clubs & classes
18-19
What’s On
Lesley Would you like to advertise your business in our next issue?
BOOK TODAY
Call Natasha on 07767 893807 natasha@familiespublishing.co.uk
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NEWS
UK births drop to near halfcentury low Births in England and Wales fell for a fourth consecutive year in 2025, reaching their lowest level since 1977. Office for National Statistics (ONS) data shows 585,000 live births last year - a 10,000 drop from the previous year, continuing a steady decline since 2010. The estimated fertility rate hit a record low, dropping to just under 1.4 children per woman, down from 1.9 in 2010. Women are also delaying motherhood longer than ever, with the average age of first-time mothers reaching a record 29.6 years. Concurrently, demographic makeup shifted, as births where at least one parent was born outside the UK rose to 40%, up from 30% in 2010. While global fertility has halved since 1963, ONS experts note the complete picture of long-term family sizes will only become clear when this generation finishes childbearing around age 45.
Heritage Open Days – celebrating everyday histories The country’s largest festival of history and culture returns 11-20 September 2026. Heritage Open Days returns this September with thousands of free events and experiences taking place across England. Each year, millions of people take part in a nationwide celebration of their heritage, community and history. The festival is brought to you by the National Trust and supported by Postcode Lottery players, with an exciting programme of events delivered locally by thousands of organisations and volunteers. It’s all about doorstep discovery – whether you’re stepping into a cold war bunker or a crematorium, a museum or a mandir, a lido or a lighthouse, a canal boat or a colliery, a signal box or a submarine. The festival offers thousands of free, communityled events all over England, with endless opportunity for discovering something new. More info: www.heritageopendays.org.uk
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Work around your family commitments doing something you love
A sweeping reform of the UK special educational needs and disabilities system will legally require every primary school child with identified special educational needs to have a digital Individual Support Plan (ISP). These plans will replace the old SEN Support tier and require schools to record day-to-day needs, targeted support, and expected outcomes, all while involving parents in the process. Accessible to teachers and parents, these living documents are designed to travel seamlessly with children between school years and education phases like a digital passport, preventing critical support from dropping during transitions. The national initiative is backed by a new £1.6 billion Inclusive Mainstream Fund designed to boost early intervention. While headteachers welcome the push to cut down the lengthy bureaucracy of traditional plans, many warn that school funding must match these rising operational demands. More info: www.bit.ly/SENchanges Familiesonline.co.uk
NEWS
Statutory school phone ban enforced from September
Citizenship, oracy and media literacy
The government has placed the national school mobile phone ban on a statutory footing under the newly enacted Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act. The new legislation officially came into force on 29 June 2026, meaning all state-funded schools across England must operate fully phone-free environments by default when the new academic year starts in September.
Primary schools in England are preparing for a major overhaul following the government’s formal backing of the independent Curriculum and Assessment Review. Under the incoming framework, scheduled for mandatory rollout in September 2028, citizenship education will become legally compulsory for primary pupils from Key Stage 1.
While ministers argue legal backing eliminates classroom distractions, headteachers warn the mandate presents major implementation hurdles.
The mandate also places a heavy emphasis on oracy - the ability to communicate effectively through spoken language - introducing a dedicated framework alongside traditional reading and writing. For the first time, the new primary curriculum will also require schools to teach media literacy, equipping children with critical thinking skills to spot online fake news and misinformation.
The Association of School and College Leaders noted that over 90% of schools already restrict devices, proving the real challenge lies in daily enforcement rather than regulation. Local school leaders now face significant pressure to police ‘off and away’ policies without dedicated funding for secure storage pouches or lockers. Furthermore, successfully managing parental resistance regarding emergency communication remains a hurdle as schools transition over to this stricter, legally binding regime.
Key dates for Year 7 entry 2027
While teaching unions welcome the focus on vital skills, leaders warn that primary timetables are severely overloaded. School staff will begin training ahead of the final text release in 2027, in order to integrate these demanding requirements into packed schedules. More info at www.gov.uk
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07/08/2026 12:15 pm Families Thames Valley West 5
EDUCATION
School Open Days
Sep-Oct 2026
Open days may need pre-booking. Please check before visiting.
International Food Fair at Windmill Primary School and Nursery Windmill Primary School and Nursery in Wokingham had an incredible end to the Summer Term with the return of the School Council’s International Food Fair! The whole school came together to celebrate food and culture in style with classrooms filled with traditional dress, flags and food and drink from around the world! Children talked excitedly about their dishes as they shared them with their classmates, with many children trying, and enjoying, foods they had never seen or heard of before. The pride in the children’s faces as they shared their family’s favourite foods alongside their parents was truly unforgettable, and just one of the reasons that the Windmill family is so special. They are looking forward to next year’s already! Windmill Primary School and Nursery is a small school with big achievements in the heart of Woosehill, Wokingham. Book your tour now and see how this UNICEF Gold Rights Respecting School can offer your child the very best start, giving them the tools they need to succeed and thrive. www.windmillschool.org
Chicklands at Micklands: Five feathered residents at school in Caversham For the last few months children at Micklands Primary School in Caversham, Reading have had the pleasure of five new residents: hens named Maude, Mavis, Gladys, Betty and the star of the bunch, Taylor Swift! The school has always been committed to giving children time outside the classroom and has a fantastic programme of outdoor learning in place. The arrival of the chickens has meant that children can also learn to care for animals, take responsibility and understand how fresh eggs are provided. The hens have a large home within the school’s grounds and the opportunity to roam when supervised. Throughout school holidays families take it in turns to look after the chickens, who are very sociable and love people. They each lay an egg in the morning, meaning five fresh eggs every day: a great addition to a happy school! www.micklands.reading.sch.uk
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Families Thames Valley West
Crosfields School Shinfield Road, Reading, RG2 9BL 0118 987 1810 crosfields.com Friday 11 September, 2pm: Little Acorns stay and play Saturday 26 September, 9:30am: Whole school open morning Tuesday 29 September, 5pm: Sixth form information evening Wednesday 7 October, 9:15am: Reception taster session Thursday 8 October, 9am: Year 7 experience day Thursday 15 October, 9:15am: Weekday open morning Thursday 15 October, 6pm: Scholarships and bursaries evening Friday 16 October: Sixth form taster day Holme Grange School Heathlands Road, Wokingham, RG40 3AL 0118 978 1566 holmegrange.org Saturday 3 October, 9:30am: Whole school open morning Saturday 3 October, 11am: Nursery open morning Leighton Park School Reading, RG2 7ED 0118 987 9608 leightonpark.com Saturday 26 September, 9am: Annual open morning Saturday 27 September, 1:30pm: Sixth form open afternoon Wednesday 7 October: Taster day for students in year 11 Tuesday 13 October, 8:30am: Taster day for students in year 6 Friday 16 October, 9am: Open morning Friday 6 November, 9am: Open morning Tuesday 10 November, 8:30am: Taster day for students in year 6 Luckley House School Wokingham, RG40 3EU 0118 978 4175 luckleyhouseschool.org Tuesday 22 September: Sixth form open evening Friday 25 September: Sixth form taster day Saturday 10 October: Open morning Tuesday 13 October: Year 6 taster day Oratory Prep School Goring Heath, Reading, RG8 7SF 0118 984 4511 oratoryprep.so.uk Friday 2 October: All school open day Pangbourne College Pangbourne, Reading, RG8 8LA 0118 976 7415 / pangbourne.com Saturday 26 September: Whole school open morning Thursday 1 October: Year 6 taster day Friday 9 October: Sixth form taster day The Abbey Junior School Reading, RG2 7AR The Abbey Senior School Reading, RG1 5DZ Junior School: 0118 931 3111, Senior School: 0118 987 2256 theabbey.co.uk Friday 18 September: Senior school and sixth form working open day Friday 25 September: Junior school open event Friday 2 October: Stay and play at Little Knellies Nursery Thursday 8 October: Sixth form open evening Thursday 8 October: Abbey flavours open event Wednesday 14 October: Junior school taster day Trinity School Love Lane, Newbury, RG14 2DU 01635 510500trinitynewbury.org Thursday 10 September, 4pm: Open evening
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EDUCATION
Meet the Head: The Oratory Preparatory School We recently caught up with Mr William May, the new Headteacher at The Oratory Prep School in Goring Heath. The school is set in beautiful countryside and welcomes children from nursery up to year 8. When did you become Head at The Oratory Prep, and what did you do before that? I joined The Oratory Prep this September, having previously been Head of The Marist Prep School. It has been an exciting move, and I feel incredibly privileged to lead such a special school. What makes The Oratory Prep unique? Without hesitation, it’s the people. Our pupils, staff and parents create a community defined by warmth, ambition and genuine pride. There is an energy and sense of purpose here that’s difficult to put into words. It’s a school that combines strong values and tradition with dynamic thinking, where every child is encouraged to thrive and be the best version of themselves. How does the school work with the local – and wider – community? Community is at the heart of everything we do. We host a wide range of clubs, events and activities that welcome families and the wider community onto campus, while our pupils are actively involved in charitable initiatives and fundraising throughout the year. We believe education extends beyond the classroom, and helping children develop a strong sense of service and social responsibility is a vital part of that.
What sort of music do you like to listen to or play? My playlist is wonderfully varied and very much depends on the occasion. Some mornings begin with the calming sounds of Classic FM, while most days feature plenty of 90s and 2000s classics. If I’m out running, the tempo definitely picks up!
What measures do you have in place to help boarders settle in quickly?
I saw Coldplay at Wembley last year, have enjoyed my fair share of festivals over the years, and I’m taking my girls to see Ariana Grande later this month, although I have to admit I’m still catching up on all the lyrics.
We pride ourselves on being a true home from home.
What is your favourite place in the world?
Outstanding pastoral care sits at the heart of boarding, with an experienced house team, a buddy system and plenty of opportunities for new pupils to build friendships from day one.
That’s a difficult one! I’ve been fortunate enough to live in several countries, including Holland and Venezuela and have travelled widely. If I had to choose just one place, it would probably be the Alps. I’m a passionate skier and there’s something incredibly special about being in the mountains.
We also offer taster boarding experiences, allowing prospective families to experience boarding life before making the decision. Our aim is simple: every child should feel happy, supported and part of the family from the moment they arrive.
Are there any exciting changes coming over the next couple of years at OPS? Absolutely. We have an exciting vision for the future, with new partnerships, ambitious residential opportunities and some very special events already in the pipeline. Alongside this, we will see continued investment in our facilities and the opportunities available to every pupil. It’s a very exciting time to be part of The Oratory Prep, and we’re looking forward to building on the school’s already outstanding foundations.
To find out more about The Oratory Prep School, come along to their all school Open Day on Friday 2 October, or contact the school to arrange a visit. The Oratory Prep School Goring Heath Reading, RG8 7SF 0118 984 4511 www.oratoryprep.co.uk Familiesonline.co.uk
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EDUCATION
Building maths confidence in upper primary school By Ksenia Volgemut Many children begin upper primary school feeling comfortable with maths, only to lose confidence as the work becomes more abstract. In Years 5 and 6, pupils encounter longer word problems, fractions, decimals, percentages, negative numbers, multi-step calculations and early algebraic thinking. For some children, this shift can feel sudden. A dip in maths confidence does not always mean a child is ‘bad at maths.’ Often, it means they have small gaps in understanding, feel unsure about methods or panic when questions look unfamiliar. The good news is that confidence can be rebuilt with calm, regular support.
Parents can also build maths into everyday moments. Cooking involves measuring, sharing and scaling quantities. Shopping involves money, estimation and percentages. Travel involves time, distance and problem-solving. These small examples show children that maths goes beyond the classroom.
One of the most helpful things parents can do is make maths feel normal, not frightening. Children often hear adults say things like: ‘I was never good at maths either.’ Although this may be meant kindly, it can accidentally suggest that maths ability is fixed. A better message is: ‘You might not understand it yet but we can work it out step by step.’
However, support at home should not become pressure. If a child is already anxious, too many extra worksheets can make maths feel like a punishment. Start with what they can do, then stretch gently. A child who feels successful is more likely to try the next challenge.
Upper primary maths depends heavily on foundations. Times tables, number bonds, place value and basic fractions all support later topics. If these are shaky, harder questions can feel overwhelming. Short, regular practice is usually more effective than long sessions. Five to ten minutes of focused recall, a few times a week, can help children feel more secure. It also helps to talk through mistakes calmly. When a child gets an answer wrong, try asking: ‘Where did it start to go wrong?’ rather than ‘Why did you get that wrong?’ This turns mistakes into information. Perhaps your child misread the question, forgot a times table, rushed a step or chose the wrong operation. Once the pattern is clear, the solution becomes easier. Word problems are another common confidence barrier. Many children can complete a calculation when it is written clearly but struggle when the same maths is hidden in a paragraph. Encourage your child to underline key information, circle the question being asked and decide which operation is needed before they start calculating. This slows down the process and helps them feel more in control.
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It is also worth praising the process rather than the speed. Fast answers are not always accurate and slower pupils may have strong reasoning skills. Say things like: ‘I like how you checked that’ or ‘That was a good method,’ rather than only praising the final answer. As secondary school approaches, maths expectations increase. Pupils need to explain methods, solve multi-step problems and apply knowledge in new situations. Building confidence before Year 7 can make that transition feel much smoother. Maths confidence grows when children feel safe to try, make mistakes and practise regularly. Parents do not need to know every method perfectly. What matters most is creating a calm routine, encouraging effort and helping children believe that maths can improve with practice. Ksenia Volgemut is from Battersea House, a UK-based online tutoring platform supporting students from primary through GCSE and A-level. Families can claim their first session FREE at www.batterseahouse.co.uk.
How to make maths practice less stressful
Why maths confidence matters before Year 7
Keep practice short and predictable. Ten calm minutes are often better than an hour of frustration. It also helps to choose one small focus, such as times tables, fractions or word problems and stop before your child becomes overwhelmed.
Maths often feels different in secondary school. Pupils meet more abstract topics, longer problem-solving tasks and questions that combine several skills at once. A child who feels unsure in Year 6 may find that confidence dips further when routines, teachers and expectations change in Year 7.
Use a timer if it helps but avoid making every task a race. Some children think more clearly when speed is removed. To end a session with confidence, not panic, finish with a question they can do successfully.
Building confidence in upper primary school gives children a stronger base before that transition. It also helps them approach new topics with less panic and more willingness to try.
Families Thames Valley West
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EDUCATION
Holme Grange: The Sunday Times Parent Power Top 5!
Holme Grange School in Wokingham, Berkshire provides exceptional care and inspiring education for girls and boys aged 0-16. Ranked Top 5 nationally by The Sunday Times Parent Power awards, celebrated by the UK Education Choices Awards for sustainability and sport and with a Baby Room welcoming children from 9 months, Holme Grange has plenty to recommend it. Whether exploring the school farm, creating in the visual arts or competing on the sports pitches, your child will experience an education shaped by meaning, purpose and connection. Every opportunity is designed to help them flourish with confidence, curiosity and character, while developing the independence, resilience and lifelong love of learning that prepares them for life beyond the classroom. From the newly refurbished Nursery to GCSE success, individualised teaching and exceptional pastoral care support every child throughout one continuous educational journey within one connected community. Discover more at Holme Grange’s Open Morning on Saturday 3 October, visit www.holmegrange.org
BELIEF CREATES POSSIBILITY Every child, every opportunity
SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING Tuesday 22 September MAIN SCHOOL OPEN MORNING Saturday 10 October
Book a place at: www.luckleyhouseschool.org Luckley House School, Wokingham Tel: 0118 9784175
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9
EDUCATION
AI at home: helping children use it wisely
By Zuzu Jordan
AI is already part of our children’s world and even if we’d like to, we can’t pretend it doesn’t exist. But nor should we simply hand over responsibility for their learning to a machine. The most helpful place for parents lies between those extremes: in other words, adults using AI alongside children, with curiosity, clear boundaries and plenty of conversation. Parents’ worries are understandable. Artificial intelligence can produce inaccurate answers, reflect bias and make it tempting to skip the effort involved in learning. AI collects, processes and stores our data too, so it’s important that children understand that personal information, photographs and private family details should never be entered into an AI tool without an adult’s permission. Used thoughtfully though, AI can become a creative learning partner rather than a shortcut. One positive use for AI begins with talking Pie Corbett’s Talk for Writing approach recognises the importance of children orally rehearsing language and ideas before writing. Speaking can help a child organise a story, experiment with vocabulary and hear whether a sentence makes sense. So an adult could invite a child to describe an imaginary setting using the voice feature in an age-appropriate AI app. The child might describe a silver castle balanced on a cloud, with spiral windows and a garden of singing flowers. The AI could then create a picture or a written description based on those spoken ideas. The important learning happens next. Does the result match what the child imagined? What has the AI misunderstood or left out? Which words could make the instructions to the AI clearer? The child remains the author, while the technology provides a way to question, edit and improve. This can be especially useful for children who find the blank page intimidating or whose spoken ideas are stronger than their current writing. AI should not write the finished piece of work though. Instead, it can help capture an initial idea, suggest vocabulary or turn a child’s words into an image they can evaluate. The child can then write, draw, revise or expand independently.
AI can support parents too. Many adults want to help with homework but feel unsure about today’s subject terminology. A parent could ask: ‘My child is learning about fronted adverbials. Explain the term to me simply, give me three examples and suggest questions I can ask my child without doing the work for them.’ Using AI in this way gives parents a starting point for a better conversation: ‘Show me how your teacher explained it,’ ‘Which part makes sense?’ or ‘What could we check together?’ The adult’s role is to keep asking who made the choices, whose ideas are being used and what the child has learned independently. Children also need to learn that AI is not an authority. It is a tool that predicts and generates response and it can sound confident while being wrong. Encourage kids to use a simple routine: ask, check and create. Ask a clear question. Check the answer against a trusted source or knowledgeable adult. Then create something of their own from what they have learned. The aim is not to raise children who rely on AI for every answer. It is to raise thoughtful users who can question technology, protect their privacy, recognise AI’s limitations and use it to extend their own imagination. Parents do not need to know everything before beginning to use AI tools - exploring together may be the most valuable lesson of all. Zuzu Jordan is a Mastery for Maths Specialist who has taught primary for eighteen years and is Director of Arnett International. For FREE resources and tips, find her on Instagram @edumate_uk
Family rules for using AI
Try a challenge
Use AI with your child and ask them to explain what they think before consulting it. Never enter names, addresses, school details, photographs or private family information. Remind children that AI can make mistakes so should not replace trusted adults, books or school guidance and to check important answers against another reliable source. AI may offer prompts, examples or feedback but the ideas, decisions and finished work should remain the child’s and reflect their own understanding.
Ask your child to invent a character or setting and describe it aloud using an AI app’s voice feature.
10 Families Thames Valley West
Request a picture based only on their spoken description. Compare the picture carefully with the idea in your child’s mind. What is accurate? What is missing? Which words caused confusion? Let your child improve the prompt, then draw or write their own version. The goal is clearer communication and creative thinking, not producing a perfect AI image for them.
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EDUCATION
The UK’s leading futureready, values-led school Leighton Park is an independent co-ed day and boarding school in Reading for ages 11-18, inspiring young people to think boldly, learn adventurously and live with purpose. An exceptional education is about becoming who you’re meant to be – backed by a kind and aspirational learning community. Leighton Park is a co-educational school where relationships matter, where compassionate challenge is central to school life and where students are encouraged to develop as reflective, confident young people with purpose and integrity. Consistently recognised as one of the country’s very best schools, their STEAM academic approach means students gain the skills to understand complex global problems. The school is proud to have one of the country’s top music departments and there are 30 sports, with real strength in Football, Hockey and Netball. Discover more at their Open Morning on 26 September. www.leightonpark.com/visit-leighton-park
Annual Open Morning Saturday 26th September 9:00am-11:00am Taster Days for current Year 6s Tuesday 13th October 8.30am-3.30pm Tuesday 10th November 8.30am-3.30pm
Open Morning Saturday 26 September 09:30 - 12:00
Now welcoming children from age 2 & 3 Co-educational | Day School | Age 2 - 16 *
Book your place
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Shinfield Road, Reading, Berks RG2 9BL | 0118 9871810 | admissions@crosfields.com
*New Sixth Form opening September 2028 Families Thames Valley West
11
FOOD
Delicious AND nutritious lunch box ideas By Samantha Gnimavo
Research shows fewer than two percent of packed lunches meet School Food Standards* but it doesn’t have to be that way. Can lunch boxes can be delicious AND nutritious? Certainly - here’s how! Swap your usual spread for something with more flavour Trying new spreads introduces children to different flavours and sneaks in extra nutrients. Instead of butter or mayo, why not try houmous or pesto? Both add fibre and taste great. Small changes like this gradually broaden a child’s palate.
Don’t forget dairy Babybel® or small cheese chunks are easy, protein-rich additions. If packing yoghurt, check the sugar content: fruit yogurts can contain a surprising amount. A simple fix is stirring a little jam into plain yogurt instead.
Swap crisps for popcorn Crisps are a lunchbox staple but have you considered salted popcorn? Higher in fibre and lower in fat, it’s a simple, satisfying swap. It’s fun and easy to make at home or pick up small ready-made bags at most supermarkets. A small change, a big win!
Eat the rainbow
For a sweet treat, add a piece of seasonal fruit
Swap white bread for wholegrain or sourdough
Fruit is nature’s dessert. Regularly rotating one or two pieces exposes your child to a range of flavours. Seasonal fruit is usually cheaper too, so beyond the banana or apple standbys, try a pear, satsumas, apricots or berries. Variety is the spice of life!
Plain white bread is low in nutrients and digests quickly, leaving children hungry before the afternoon is over. Wholegrain and sourdough breads are far more nutritious and release energy slowly. It’s a simple swap that makes a real difference.
Pack an after-school snack The school day doesn’t end at lunch. An extra snack for home time satisfies afterschool hunger. Good options include a small handful of nuts or seeds (if the school allows), a cereal bar, rice cakes or a piece of fruit. A little goes a long way.
Insulated flasks and food jars keep food warm for hours so they work for colder weather lunchboxes. A warming bowl of last night’s leftover pasta, soup or stew is comforting, nutritious and reduces food waste.
*www.bit.ly/foodfoundationkids
12 Families Thames Valley West
Hitting five-a-day starts at lunchtime. Adding vegetables to a sandwich boosts fibre, vitamins and minerals, keeping energy levels steady all afternoon. Try salad leaves, tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, grated carrot or sliced bell peppers. Colourful and crunchy, let your child choose.
The more colours on a plate, the better. Fruit and vegetables all contain different vitamins, so variety really does matter. Challenge your child to spot every colour in their lunchbox. It turns healthy eating into a game and makes lunchtime more exciting.
Choose hot over cold
Samantha Gnimavo is owner of Happy Body (www.happy-body.co.uk), a women’s health and fertility nutritionist and NHSaccredited health coach.
Fresh fillings in sandwiches
Keep it simple: add a flask of water Staying hydrated is essential for concentration and overall health, yet it’s often overlooked in lunchboxes. A flask of water is all you need. Skip the squash, it adds unnecessary sugar. If your child isn’t keen on plain water, try adding a slice of lemon, a sprig of mint or swap to sparkling water.
Who doesn’t love a good dip? You can never have too many vegetables. Chop some carrots, cucumber and bell peppers, add a pot of houmous and you put fun and fibre into any lunchbox or after-school snack. Children who help prepare their food are also more likely to eat it.
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C nd out kee p
u WHAT’S a ONt
Make glow in the dark spiders webs Conkers are an autumn favourite - shiny, brown and perfect for crafting. Some people say conkers help keep spiders away, so you can enjoy spooky webs and crafty spiders all Halloween long (without any unexpected real spider guests)! So grab your kids and get them making their own glow-in-the-dark conker webs to hang in your windows.
To make one glow web decoration, you will need:
Web: 1 conker 5 cocktail sticks (or BBQ skewers, trimmed) Glow-in-the-dark wool or string Optional extras: String for hanging Tiny toy/paper spider A dab of glue/tape (grown-up help may be needed)
Top tip: Glow wool charge s up best under a bright lamp or sunlight , th really shines whe en it n you turn the lights do wn.
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Push the sticks into the conker to make a star shape. Push them in just far enough to hold firmly.
Tie the end of the glow wool around the centre of the conker. Wrap it around a few times to secure.
Loop the wool around the end of the next stick, then move to the next one. Keep going in the same order.
Step 4
Step 5
Step 6
Keep weaving around all 5 sticks, round and round, to build the web outwards.
When you reach the ends of the sticks, tuck the wool under a few loops at the back and trim. Add a tiny dab of glue or tape if needed.
To decorate and hang, tie on a hanging loop and add a little cardboard spider in the centre.
Familiesonline.co.uk
With thanks to Little Crafters Boxes (www.littlecraftersboxes. co.uk) for this craft idea. Hartley’s Winter Lolly Stick Crafts and more seasonal craft activities are available to purchase on Amazon.
Families Thames Valley West 13
PARENTING
Books that help children with their worries Compiled by Carrie McCarthy
Children experience all kinds of challenges, from big life changes to dealing with everyday worries. At these times, the right book can offer comfort, reassurance and a way to make sense of what they’re feeling. Try these to help children through life’s ups and downs.
Ages 3-6 The Invisible String by Patrice Karst, illustrated by Joanne LewVriethoff This heartwarming picture book helps when children are struggling with separation anxiety, anxiety, loss or grief. In the book, the mother tells her children that they are connected by an invisible string of love to everyone they care about, no matter how far away.
Ages 4-8 Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
A great book to open up conversations about selfacceptance and learning to see your own worth. With the darkest skin in her family, young Sulwe struggles with feeling different and less beautiful than others. After a magical journey through the sky, she understands that beauty exists in many shades and that her own skin is something she should be proud of.
Ages 3-7 Grandad’s Camper by Harry Woodgate A gentle picture book about grief which also celebrates LGBTQIA+ families. The story follows a young girl and her grandad, sharing stories about his partner Gramps and their life together. Within the story, the granddaughter learns about loss and the importance of cherishing memories of people we love.
Ages 5+ A Shelter For Sadness by Anne Booth, illustrated by David Litchfield This is a beautiful book about making space for sadness. In the book, a boy makes a shelter for his sadness. He can visit his sadness at any time, whether to sit quietly, to cry or to talk. The message is that sadness is not something to be pushed away but instead cared for and understood.
Ages 3-6
Ages 4-8
Two Places To Call Home by Phil Earle, illustrated by Jess Rose
Lubna And The Pebble by Wendy Meddour, illustrated by Daniel Egneus
This comforting picture book reassures children experiencing divorce. Florrie has two brothers, two pets and two parents - and now she has two homes: one with her mum and one with her dad. She shares special moments with each parent and when she feels sad or worried, those memories remind her that the other parent is never far away.
Here is a story that gently helps children understand the challenges that refugees might face. Lubna, a young girl, arrives at a refugee camp and forms an attachment to a small pebble, whom she calls her best friend. Through this friendship, she processes her feelings of fear, loss and missing home. When she meets Amir, she gives him the pebble,
Ages 9-11
Ages 8+ Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Magnet by Zanib Mian
A warm and humorous story about a young boy adjusting to a new home and school. The book gently explores bullying and racism as Omar faces prejudice and unkind behaviour because of his Muslim faith, whilst learning to navigate friendships, family life and misunderstandings. Together with support from his family and friends, Omar responds with humour, kindness and resilience.
The Wrong Shoes by Tom Percival
Tackling the themes of poverty, pride and morality, Will and his dad struggle financially,and his worn-out shoes make him a target for bullies. When Will falls out with his only friend, he has to make the tough choice between doing what’s right and giving in to the pressure for quick money.
Carrie McCarthy is from Pageticker (www.pageticker.com), the UK’s top-rated digital reading diary for children. This free app helps record, organise and celebrate every book a child reads, allowing them to create beautiful reading lists, set achievable goals and build daily reading streaks that keep motivation high. 14 Families Thames Valley West
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HEALTH
Using anchoring to calm anxiety By Christopher Paul Jones Anxiety has become incredibly prevalent. Children can suffer anxiety about going back to school; parents can suffer anxiety about their child’s development and societal expectations can be an issue for everyone. But very few people really understand how anxiety works, what causes it or indeed how to change it. Understand what anxiety actually is One of the biggest misconceptions about anxiety is that it is about character; if sufferers were just braver, stronger or more confident, they wouldn’t feel it. But anxiety is much more often a learned reflex. A conditioned response. Trying to think your way out of it often doesn’t help because emotions don’t follow logic. Anxiety can be handled One of the quickest and most useful tools I’ve come across is something called anchoring, a technique that creates a conditioned association between a specific internal emotional state and an external stimulus (such as a touch). Anchoring gives us something incredibly valuable - the sense that we can start reclaiming control. How to anchor Think of a time when you felt very relaxed. Go fully to that time. See what you saw. Hear what you heard. Feel what you felt. At the peak of that feeling, squeeze your thumb and forefinger together. Hold that for as long as you can stay in that feeling. The second the feeling begins to fade, let go.
Now do it again, thinking of a time when you felt very loving or connected. Repeat other positive emotions: a time you couldn’t stop laughing; a time when you felt very confident or very safe. Now test it. Clear your mind for a moment. Then squeeze your fingers together in exactly the same way, with the same pressure. This should start sending you back to those positive emotions. Whenever you start to feel anxious, squeeze your fingers together in exactly the same way and fire off positive emotions. If the anchor is strong enough, it should take out or at least neutralise much of the negative emotional charge. Christopher Paul Jones is a leading Harley Street phobia expert who combines mainstream psychology and cutting-edge techniques which aim to change the mind’s danger response. He is author of Face your Fears – 7 Steps to Conquering Phobias and Anxiety. More at www.christopherpauljones. com
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All aboard the party play bus! Introducing the NEW Beehive Express Party Play Bus – where the party rolls right up to your door! Once a classic red London double-decker, she’s had a total glow-up and is now buzzing as a soft play party bus in dazzling bright yellow! The party play bus is perfect for: birthday parties, weddings, schools, nurseries and corporate events and is suitable for children aged 3-11 years. Whether you’re in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire or Surrey (within 20 miles of Bracknell), the Beehive Express Party Play Bus is ready to bring the soft play party directly to YOU! To enquire, please complete the online form found here: www.beehiveclub.co.uk/the-beehive-bus Facebook and Instagram @thebeehiveexpressplaybus Familiesonline.co.uk
Families Thames Valley West 15
CLUBS & CLASSES
How sport and education can work together By Dennis J Smith (M.Ed) Back to school and to the excitement of a new school year. New teachers, new classrooms, new friendships and new opportunities can all help create a sense of anticipation. While some children may feel a little nervous, many are also eager to return to familiar routines and activities. For parents, the start of a new term is often a good time to think about how children can enjoy a healthy balance between education, sport and family life. Over many years of working with young people, I have seen how participation in sport can often support progress in school. Children who take part in football, swimming, tennis, rugby, athletics, dance or other activities frequently develop qualities that can also help them in the classroom. Sport encourages perseverance, concentration, self-discipline and resilience. Young people learn that improvement usually comes through regular effort rather than instant success. They discover how to cope with setbacks, learn from mistakes and keep trying when things become challenging. These are valuable lessons both on the sports field and in school. However, balance remains important. Children benefit most when sport is enjoyable rather than becoming another source of pressure. Not every child wishes to become a champion and that is perfectly acceptable. The real value often lies in participation, friendship, enjoyment and personal development.
As recommended on Daynurseries.co.uk, please visit to see what our parents say
Quality Care and Education
Providing a fully inclusive service for families with children aged 6 weeks to 5 years from 7.30am to 6.30pm
The same principle applies to education. While academic progress matters, children should not feel that their worth depends entirely on test scores or examination results. Confidence often grows when parents focus on effort, attitude and gradual improvement rather than constant comparison with others. As the new school year gets going, parents can help by encouraging positive routines. Regular sleep, healthy meals, reading, outdoor activity and organised preparation for the school day all contribute to a calmer and more successful start. Most importantly, children benefit from knowing that home is a place of encouragement and support. A simple conversation after school, showing interest in what they enjoyed, learned or experienced during the day, can sometimes be more valuable than focusing solely on performance. A new school term offers a fresh opportunity for children to grow in confidence, develop new skills and enjoy new experiences. When education, sport and family support work together, young people are often able to achieve their potential while maintaining a healthy sense of balance and wellbeing.
With a background in education, sport science and coaching, Dennis J Smith offers an affordable twelveunit online course for parents titled Supporting Young Athletes, designed to help children enjoy sport, build confidence and reach their potential in a healthy, balanced way. First unit completely FREE. Email scholarlyachievement@gmail.com for more information.
At Green Park the warm and welcoming environment ensures that your child’s individual needs are prioritised, and their interests nurtured.
T: 0118 931 3115 E: greenpark.nursery@childbase.com Green Park Day Nursery, 200 South Oak Way, Reading, RG2 6UQ
Now taking registrations
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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 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. www.masterbuildersclub.co.uk
SPORT
DRAMA
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&c apply) and sibling discount offered. Call 0118 229 3232, or email northhampshireandreading@puddleducks.com www.puddleducks.com/local-teams/northhampshire-and-reading
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. www.perform.org.uk/try
Swimwell NOW! Everyone’s goal is different - we focus on what a child/adult CAN do, not what the book says they must do to progress. Covering West Berkshire towns and hamlets. Experienced teachers helping beginners, those scared of water, young, old, improvers, advanced. We are inclusive and understand why people don’t want to or can’t swim. Support@swimwellnow.com or message Jo 07853 194 327
Feature your club or class in our next issue, call Lesley on 07863 790592, or email editor@familiestvw.co.uk
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
TRY A
FREE CLASS
Give your child a confidence boost this autumn Are you looking for a fun weekly activity where your child can build confidence, find their voice and make new friends? Perform’s drama, dance and singing classes for ages 4-7 and 7-12 provide a positive outlet for children to express themselves, grow in confidence and have fun. Filled with drama-based games, improvisation, catchy songs and fun dance routines, each term ends with a magical performance, giving each child the opportunity to shine. Every child is welcome to come and try Perform for FREE, to discover what their classes are all about before joining. It’s also a great opportunity to chat to the team about your child’s individual needs, whether that’s building confidence, speaking up in a group, developing social skills or making new friends. This autumn’s productions are Super Hero School - an actionpacked mission to save the planet for ages 4-7 and Jack and the Wonderbeans - a Hollywood-inspired spy thriller for ages 7-12. Classes are available in Crowthorne, Goring, Henley, Reading, Twyford and Wokingham. Visit perform.org.uk/try to book a FREE trial class. Familiesonline.co.uk
Confidence Building FUN Drama, dance and singing classes designed to help 4–12 year olds shine Crowthorne, Goring, Henley, Reading, Twyford or Wokingham BOOK A FREE CLASS Your child’s first class is free, so why not give it a go? Find your nearest class online or call us:
perform.org.uk/try 020 7255 9120
Families Thames Valley West 17
WHAT’S ON
What’s on
September/October 2026
All listings are correct at the time of publication. Please check with the venue before you visit in case anything has changed.
SEPTEMBER 2 Sep A Tale of Beatrix Potter – City Arts Newbury Enjoy a dramatised story of her life and colourful animal creations, devised and directed by Ann Davidson. Playing at City Arts Newbury for one night only. cityartsnewbury.org 3-12 Sep Cold Comfort Farm – Progress Theatre, Reading In this classic comedy set in the early 1930s, orphaned Flora Poste “possesses every art and grace save that of earning her own living”, so decides to live with her eccentric relatives, the Starkadders, at Cold Comfort Farm. Forceful and organised, she decides to impose order on their chaotic lives. progresstheatre.co.uk 5 Sep Street Art at City Arts, Newbury Create your very own piece of abstract street art on canvas for you to take home with you! Kev will demonstrate various techniques using acrylics, and guide you through the process of creating your very own masterpiece! (This workshop is aimed at children 8+) cityartsnewbury.org 5 Sep Community Summer Fair & Carboot - Basingstoke War Memorial Park A fantastic afternoon filled with community spirit, local stalls, delicious food and drinks, fun crafts, live music, and a tombola all in support of Keki’s Rescue. allevents.in/basingstoke
6 Sep Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham Come along to find out about and celebrate stories and information books about some of the 63 monarchs of England and Britain. Bring along your own favourite books to share. Suitable for ages 5-8. fourbearsbooks.co.uk 12 Sep N-Fest – Northcroft Playing Fields, Newbury It’s one of the area’s best days out, with music, food and drink that the whole family can enjoy, and a community event that also raises money for local charities – how can you beat that? Head along to celebrate the end of summer with family and friends, right here in Newbury. visitnewbury.org.uk 12-13 Sep Heritage Open Days - West Berkshire Museum, Newbury Heritage Open Days is England’s largest festival of history and culture. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – and it’s all FREE. westberkshireheritage.org 12-16 Sep Autumn Archaeology at Greys Court, Henley Greys Court once again takes a dive into its incredible archaeological history, supported by the South Oxfordshire Archaeology Group. The excavation will focus on the top lawn, investigating structures using geophysics that will hopefully shed light on medieval life at Greys Court. nationaltrust.org.uk/greys-court
APOLLO Half-Term Holiday Club
Monday 26 – Friday 30 October Supervised care for children ages 4-11years 8.30am to 5.30pm
Children must bring a packed lunch.
£24.50 per day
Concessionary rate available. (T&Cs apply) Childcare vouchers accepted. Ofsted Registered.
For more details email: apolloyouthclub@gmail.com Message can be left on 07950 628750/ 0118 3049330
13 Sep Reading Cycle Festival – Christchurch Meadows, Reading This is an annual, community event which celebrates cycling in all its forms. The festival has over the years introduced riders and aspiring riders to a wide range of pedal-powered machines catering for a range of people – from those with special needs to the super fit. readingcyclefestival.co.uk 13 Sep Live Music in Victoria Park: Watership Brass – Victoria Park, Newbury Live music at the Bandstand in Victoria Park – FREE to attend for all to enjoy! visitnewbury.org.uk 15 Sep Storytime in the Cafe - Dinton Activity Centre, Hurst Go the Coffee Deck for a delightful short story with Wokingham Libraries, reading from 10:30 11:00am - perfect for a little midmorning fun! wokinghamcountryside.co 19 Sep Speed Lego Competition – Rocket Propelled Games, Newbury Do you and a friend or loved one back yourselves to become monthly champions in the Rocket Propelled Games Speed Lego Competition? You’ll have 1 hour to complete a roughly 200-piece Lego set, which you get to keep afterwards. visitnewbury.org.uk 19-20 Sep There’s a Monster in Your Show – Corn Exchange Newbury A high-energy 55-minute adventure featuring lively original music, this show is the perfect introduction to live theatre. Expect plenty of playful fun for your littlest ones as their favourite characters come to life in a show that is packed with interactive moments to enjoy together. cornexchangenew.com 19-20 Sep Medieval Jousting – Stonor Park, Henley The ultimate medieval rematch awaits. stonor.com 19-20 Sep Newbury Show – Newbury Showground The show is widely regarded as one of the best county shows in the country hosted over two days. The show remains true to its roots – a celebration of all aspects of farming and rural life in the area, showcasing agricultural technology, animals, artisan products, local produce and more! newburyshowground.co.uk 20 Sep Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham Come along to find out about and celebrate stories and information books about some of the 63 monarchs of England and Britain, including a look at the events of 1066 recorded in the Bayeux Tapestry. Suitable for ages 9-11. fourbearsbooks.co.uk
OCTOBER 2-11 Oct Henley Literary Festival One of the UK’s leading literary festivals returns for the 20th year in person in Henley-on-Thames and online wherever you are, with Nigella Lawson making her debut opening the festival and the UK’s bestselling author of all time Julia Donaldson on the closing day. experiencehenley.co.uk 3 Oct-8 Nov Who’s in Your Book? – The Vyne, Basingstoke Oh no! Monster and his friends have escaped from their books, and only you can help return them home! In The Vyne’s gardens, set off on a fun-filled interactive trail through the magical world of Tom Fletcher’s Who’s In Your Book? series. Search for your favourite characters, solve playful challenges, and discover how every page can become an unforgettable adventure. FREE event, normal admission charges apply. nationaltrust.org.uk/the-vyne 3 Oct-8 Nov Stranger Folk Digital Adventure– The Vyne, Basingstoke Perfect for ages 7-12, this magical adventure played by mobile app comes to The Vyne this autumn. As the spirit and human worlds collide, sneaky goblins, cunning beggars and Stranger Folk are slipping through the crack to stir up trouble. Gather your team, harness the elements and seal the rift before the creatures take hold! Download the app before your visit via the Apple app store or Google Play. FREE event, normal admission charges apply. nationaltrust.org.uk/the-vyne 4 Oct Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham The group will be looking at fiction and non-fiction books about books and libraries this month. Bring along your own favourites to share. Suitable for ages 5-8. fourbearsbooks.co.uk 4 Oct Applefest Children’s Glass Fusing – City Arts Newbury Create your own apple hanging decoration using glass fusing techniques, blending beautiful autumnal colours into a unique, handcrafted piece. Collect your apples later in October when Jason has ‘baked’ them in his kiln. cityartsnewbury.org 9-18 Oct Thatcham Festival From comedy, theatre, music and dance to history talks, author events, outdoor nature activities, festivals, and photo and art exhibitions, Thatcham Festival has something for everyone. With over 40 individual events taking place across 10 packed days, the festival showcases a vibrant programme of arts and leisure activities delivered by a diverse range of people and organisations connected to Thatcham. thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk
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WHAT’S ON 10 Oct The Big Thatcham Fest-Off – Thatcham High Street Kicking off Thatcham Festival, the Big Thatcham Fest-Off returns to a traffic-free High Street. Expect street food, stalls and two live music stages - including the popular acoustic stage. thatchamtowncouncil.gov.uk 11 Oct Children’s Graffiti Lettering at City Arts - City Arts Newbury Learn the fundamentals of graffitistyle lettering and create a unique, hand-drawn master sketch on card using marker pens. Your finished artwork can be framed or given as a special handmade gift or card. cityartsnewbury.org 16 Oct A Tale of Us – Corn Exchange Newbury Blending drama and multi-sensory playtime in a relaxed environment, this is a celebration of the wonder, joys and challenges of becoming a new parent. cornexchangenew.com 17 Oct Spooky Pumpkin Scene with Mandy – City Arts Newbury Create this spooky pumpkin scene for Halloween using simple embroidery from a hoop and coloured threads. cityartsnewbury.org 17 Oct Speed LEGO Competition – Rocket Propelled Games, Newbury Do you and a friend or loved one back yourselves to become monthly champions in the Rocket Propelled Games Speed Lego Competition? You’ll have 1 hour to complete a roughly 200-piece Lego set, which you get to keep afterwards. visitnewbury.org.uk 18 Oct Reading Children’s Book Group at Fourbears Books, Caversham The group will be looking at fiction and non-fiction books about books and libraries this month. Bring along your favourites to share. Suitable for ages 9-11. fourbearsbooks.co.uk 20 Oct Storytime in the Cafe - Dinton Activity Centre, Hurst Go to the coffee deck for a delightful short story with Wokingham Libraries, reading from 10:30-11am. wokinghamcountryside.co
22 Oct Glow Ride – Newbury town centre The campaign calls for safer streets and better cycle routes, and shows the power of cycling communities coming together. visitnewbury.org.uk 23-31 Oct Hallo’Welly’Ween – Wellington Country Park, Riseley Step into a world of magical mischief and playful spooks as Hallo’Welly’Ween returns for its 13th year! This half term, families are invited to enjoy a week bursting with enchanted Halloween fun and packed with activities for all ages. wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk 24 Oct Out of the Box – Corn Exchange Newbury Fresh from five-star success at the Edinburgh Fringe and being named Best Family Show at Brighton Fringe, Darryl J Carrington transforms everyday objects into extraordinary adventures. A toothbrush stars in a balancing act, a string sparks a heist and a tea party lands on someone’s head! cornexchangenew.com 25 Oct JL Events Halloween Fun Day Dinton Pastures Country Park, Hurst The country park will be filled with fun and games for the whole day! Craft stalls, children’s rides, food and drink, face painting, costume competition and more! wokinghamcountryside.co 26 Oct The Great Ghost Hunt - Sonning Common Village Hall A story-led creative LEGO brick workshop where every child becomes the hero of the adventure. Surrounded by 1000’s of bricks, you will be building haunted houses, friendly ghosts, autumn pumpkins and a ghost hunting vehicle as the Halloween story unfolds through hands-on imaginative play. masterbuildersclub.co.uk 26 Oct Stories and Rhymes with Michael Rosen – Watermill Theatre, Newbury Poetry legend Michael Rosen celebrates his 80th birthday with a brand-new live show! Michael looks back at a lifetime in poetry, performing beloved classics, along with never-before-heard poems from his new collection Peas On Your Knees. watermill.org.uk
The Perfect IntroDUC tion to i w S mming
27 Oct Pinocchio Family Fun Day Watermill Theatre, Newbury Join a themed day of family activities at the Watermill, themed around the winter show, Pinocchio. Explore the story of Pinocchio, make your own puppets, enjoy storytelling in the theatre, and take part in rather silly drama games. watermill.org.uk
28 Oct The Spooktastic Halloween Show – The Kenton Theatre, Henley The Dantastic team are back for a frightfully fun, all-new Halloween adventure packed with music, magical mayhem and nonstop laughs. Expect catchy songs, dance routines, outrageous comedy and spooky surprises. thekenton.org.uk
27-28 Oct Dinosaur World Live – Corn Exchange Newbury Grab your compass and become an adventurous explorer across uncharted territories to discover a prehistoric world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. cornexchangenew.com
29 Oct The Great Ghost Hunt – Reading Town Hall A story-led creative LEGO brick workshop. Surrounded by 1000’s of bricks, you will be building haunted houses, friendly ghosts, autumn pumpkins and a ghost hunting vehicle as the Halloween story unfolds through hands-on imaginative play. masterbuildersclub.co.uk
28 Oct The Great Ghost Hunt – Badgemore Primary School, Henley A story-led creative LEGO brick workshop. Surrounded by 1000’s of bricks, you will be building haunted houses, friendly ghosts, autumn pumpkins and a ghost hunting vehicle as the Halloween story unfolds through hands-on imaginative play. masterbuildersclub.co.uk 28 Oct Family Activity Day – Shaw House, Newbury The Scarecrows’ Wedding by Julia Donaldson and illustrator Axel Scheffler is a family favourite and you will be making one of the scarecrows in this fun craft including a variety of craft materials. westberkshireheritage.org
29 Oct Red Robin’s Tale - The Kenton Theatre, Henley Step into a twinkling, snow-dusted world with Red Robin’s Winter Song – a gentle and joy-filled winter play perfect for young children. thekenton.org.uk 31 Oct Children’s Halloween Linoprint 2026 – City Arts Newbury Young creatives will design, carve, and print their own spooky creations, learning real printmaking techniques along the way. Prints can be used to decorate Halloween bunting, create original artwork, or personalise their own trick-or-treat bags. cityartsnewbury.org
The Look Out Discovery Centre
Over 90 activities of hands-on science and discovery fun for children of all ages! BOOK ONLINE and enter TVW2025 at checkout for 10% off admission
A great family day out whatever the weather!
OPEN
every day
W NOPEN O Offering a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, food boxes and freshly baked cakes, plus a wide variety of hot and cold drinks and ice creams.
Swimming lessons for babies & children 0-10 years. Scan to view our pools ching indeoprevnisditepnuddleducks.com a e t T
swimming from birth...
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www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery @thelookoutbracknell www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisure-services/look-out-discovery-centre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW
Families Thames Valley West 19
Autism and ADHD Assessment Clinic ESTABLISHED 2012
NICE guideline compliant multi-disciplinary assessments and treatment for children and adults. • Average wait time of 2 weeks • Fully qualified, experienced assessors (Psychologists, Psychiatrist, Speech and Language Thetrapists, Occuptaional Therapist, Mental Health Nurses)
• Professional, reputable, widely accepted • Medication Pathway • Hybrid appointments, in person and online
WE ALSO OFFER: SEND consultancy services for families and schools; Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; Specialist cognitive and SpLD assessments including Dyslexia. 0800 001 6897 admin@berkshirepsychology.co.uk
SCAN WITH YOUR PHONE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE
Berkshire Psychology, Wyvols Court, Basingstoke Road, Swallowfield RG7 1WY
OPEN DAY 2nd October An award-winning independent school for ages 2 - 13
Book your place 20 Families Thames Valley West
Learn more about our busy, happy school where children are at the centre of everything. With 65 acres of space and outstanding facilities, there’s space to learn and room to grow. Familiesonline.co.uk