Issuu

HelloSummer!

Withthesummerholidaysonthehorizon,thisissueoffers parentsasmanyoptionsaspossibleforkeepingthekidsbusy overthelongsummerbreak.Theseincludeover100local familyeventsandactivitiesinourWhat’sOnGuideplus,ideas foradventuresifyou’replanningadayatthebeach. Summerlearninglossisrealsotokeepyourkidsmentally active,findoutaboutlearningoutsideoftheclassroom,aswell ashowtoturnsummerintoaseasonofreading.Ifyou’re lookingtoteachyourchildanewskillthissummer,trytouch typing.Thisissuchavaluablelifeskilltolearnatanyagein today’sdigitalworld.

EmilySnape,authorofMyAmazingAutisticBrainandMy AmazingADHDBrain,shareshowtohelpyourchildrecognise theirstrengths,reframechallengesandcelebratethefactthat thereisnooneelseintheworldquitelikethem.Wealsohave 10copiesofherbooktogiveaway.Enteronlineat www.familiesmag.co.uk/go

ForthosewhohaveachildstartingschoolinSeptember,we havesomefreshideasforensuringasmoothstartaswellas tipsforparentswithchildrenstartinganewschoolorsimply returningtoanewacademicyear.

Finally,wehavesomesupersummergiveawaysincluding bundlesofToyStorysofttoysworth£75each!Applyinsideand receiveoure-newsletterwithmoregiveawaysandanonline versionofthemagazinetosharewithfriendsandfamily. Enjoythemagazine!

Editor –FamiliesWarwickshire &FamiliesBirmingham

FirstAidwithBertie

Wouldyourchildknow whattodoinafirstaid situation?FirstAidwith Bertieisabrandnewand excitingprogramme designedbyexpertsatSt JohnAmbulanceaimedat teachingchildrenbetween theagesof5–11basic firstaidskills.Yourchild willlearnwhatitemscan befoundinafirstaidkit, howtomakeanarmsling andlotsmore!

Forasmallmonthlygiftof £9,yourchildwillbesentfun andengagingactivitypacks, colouringpagesandstickers overthecourseofsixmonths(somebypost,otherviaemail). Alltheactivitiesaredesignedtobecompletedinthecomfortof yourownhomeandatyourchild’sownpace.Attheendof thosesixmonths,yourchildwillreceiveacutecuddlytoyof BertieBadgeralongwithacertificatetocelebratetheir achievement!

Keepyourchildbusyandentertainedthissummerwhilstalso havingthemlearnnewandpotentiallyvitalskills!

Registeredcharityno.1077265/1 www.sja.org.uk/fab

Warwickshire Birmingham

Greatbeachadventures

ByGeorginaMaw

Assunshineandwarmerweatherarrive,it’stheperfecttimetoheadtothecoast. Beachadventuresembraceaphilosophyofplayandexplorationwhichencourages childrentolearntotakerisks.Beststill,theyareacheap,enrichingwaytoenjoy qualityfamilytimetogether.

SCAVENGERHUNT

Ascavengerhuntorbeachcombingsessionisforeveryone,regardlessofage.Itis pureandsimplefun.Allyoutrulyneedisabucketandagooddoseofcuriosity. Bothsoftsandorruggedpebblesoffersimilaropportunitiesforaweandwonder. Headstraightforthestrandline,thedistincttrailofdebrisleftbythehightide,to discovernature’shiddentreasurestuckedaway!

Asyouexplore,youmightfindscuttlingcrabs,beautifulshellsandseaweedofall differentshapes,sizesandcolours.However, thegoldenruleistoleavethebeach asyoufoundit; avoidtakinganythinghomesotheecosystemstaysprotected.Toturn theadventureintoalearningexperience,takeanidentificationguideoruseaphoneto searchforwhatyouhavefound.Byidentifyingyourdiscoveries,youwilltransformcurious explorersintocoastlineexpertsinnotime.

JOURNEYSTICKS

Journeysticksareafantasticwayto capturetheessenceofyourbeachwalk, turningasimplestrollintoavisualstory. Thiscreativeactivityisasecretweapon forparents;ithelpsdistractchildrenand motivateslittlelegswhentheystarttotire, transformingthewalkintoanengaging mission.

Allyouneedisapieceofdriftwoodand somenaturaltwine tiedsecurelytoone end.Asyouwanderalongtheshore, encourageyouryoungexplorerstopickup itemsofinterest:perhapsaspiralledshell, aweatheredbitofseaglassoraunique strandofdriedsugarkelp.Simplytieeach treasuretothestickusingthetwineto wraparoundit,continuingtoaddnew findsasyougo.

Onceyoureturntoyourbase,thestory tellingbegins. Withasnackandadrink inhand,usethestickasavisualmapto retellyourjourneyalongtheshore.Each attacheditemservesasamemorymarker, helpingchildrenretelltheiradventureand celebratetheircoastaldiscoveries.

TRADITIONALGAMES

Traditionalgamesofferatimelessway toconnectwiththecoast,requiring absolutelynoresourcesbeyondwhat youfindscatteredalongtheshore. Byusingdriftwood,seaweed,shells andpebbles,youcantransformthe strandline’streasuresintoanatural playground.

BEACH-THEMEDNOUGHTSAND CROSSES

Makethemostoftheshore’sdriftwood tomakethegridordrawthegridinto flatsand.EithercreatetheXandOusing seaweedoruseshellsversusstonesas yourplayingpieces.

KIM’SGAME

Kim’sGametestsobservationand memoryskills.Gatheracollectionof beachtreasures,giveplayersamoment tomemorisetheitems,thencoverthe collectionandseewhattheycanrecall. Thiseasilyadaptstosuitanyage;for youngerchildren,startwiththreeor fourdistinctobjects.Tochallengeolder explorers,tryusingsixdifferenttypesof seaweedorsixdifferentspiralshellsto makethedistinctionsmoresubtleand removeoneitem-cantheyremember whichitemismissing?

GeorginaMaw,authorof BeachSchoolAdventure (GMC Publications,RRP£17.99),isanexperiencedbeachleader, educatorandmotherlivingonthesouthcoastofEngland. Drawingonherexpertise,shefocusesonconnecting childrentoourcoastlinestoinspirethenextgenerationof oceanstewards.Herbookisavailableonlineandfromall goodbookshops.

Cuttleﬁsh

Serratedseaweed

Screen-freeplaytimeat Touchwood’sUrbanBeach

Atatimewhenscreenscansoeasilytakeover,thesimplepleasureof outdoorplaycanfeelmoreimportantthanever.Formanyparents,the schoolholidaysbringafamiliarchallenge,howtokeepchildren entertainedwithoutrelyingtooheavilyondevices.Whiletablets, gamingconsolesandstreaminghavetheirplace,summerstill offersplentyofopportunitiesforchildrentoplayindifferentways. Freshair,movementandunstructuredtimecanallhelpsupport children’swellbeing,confidenceandcreativity.

AtTouchwood’sfreeurbanbeach,childrencandig,buildsandcastlesand comeupwiththeirowngameswithfriendsandfamily.Theappealis simple,andthat’sexactlywhatmakesitwork.Withnorulestofollowor screenstofocuson,childrencanenjoyplayingintheirownwayandat theirownpace.

Acrosstheholidays,thebeachalsofeaturesarangeoffreeactivitiesand entertainmenttoenjoy.Frombubbleperformersandprincesspopshows todramaworkshops,artsandcraftssessionsandchildren’sDJparties, there’ssomethinghappeningthroughoutthesummer.Familiescandipin andout,whetherthey’replanningafulldayoutorjuststoppingbyfora while.

Forparents,itcanofferawelcomechangefromtheusualconversations aboutscreentime.Activitieslikethesenaturallyencouragechildrentoget involved,interactandspendtimetogether,ratherthansittingbackand watching.

It’seasytoseewhyspaceslikethisaresopopularduringthelongbreak. Theyofferachanceforchildrentobeactive,socialandcreative,allina relaxedsetting.AndwitheverythingFREEtoenjoy,it’ssomewhere familiescanreturntoagainandagain.

Asthesix-weekholidaysunfold,Touchwood’sSummerBeachisaplace wherefamiliescanenjoyabitofeverything-sandbetweenthetoes, somethingfuntoengagein,andplentyofreasonstostayalittlelonger. FindtheBeachinTheatreSquare,intheheartofSolihullTown Centre,from18Jul–31Aug(weatherpermitting).

touchwoodsolihull.co.uk

Turningsummerinto aseasonofreading

ByErinMiller

Asthesummerholidaysapproach,manyparentsstartthinking abouthowtheywillkeeptheirchildrenbusy,productiveand entertained.

Somemayalsobeconcernedaboutthe‘summerslide’–the progresslostduringthesummerholidays,whichteachersreport canbearoundamonth,particularlyifchildrenarenotregularly keepingupskillssuchasreading.Forthisreason,readingshould beanessentialpartofanysummeractivityplan.

Herearesomesimpleandeffectivewaystoencouragereading overthesummer.

Inthefirstfewdaysoftheholiday, visityourlocallibrary and (re)introduceyourchildtothechildren’ssection.Trytomakethis aweeklyhabitsoitbecomesafamiliarandenjoyableroutine. Whileyou’rethere,checktoseewhetherthelibraryisrunning anysummeractivitiesforchildrensuchastheannual Summer ReadingChallenge (www.summerreadingchallenge.org.uk),as thesecanbemotivatingandmakereadingfeelmoresocialand engaging.Developingthishabitearlyalsohelpschildrenfeel confidentusinglibrarieslaterinlife,whetherinschool,university orthewidercommunity.

Anothertipis settingareadingtargetwithrewards, whichcan beespeciallyhelpfulforreluctantreaders.Evenasmallincentive canbeausefulstartingpoint.Makesurethetargetisrealisticso yourchildcanachieveitandfeelasenseofpride.Thiscouldbe assimpleasreadingonechapterbookinAugustorreadingfor twentyminuteseachday.

Readingtolearn

Readingisn’tjustaboutlearningtoread;it’saboutreading tolearn.It’susefultorecogniseandexploitallthereading yourchilddoes,notjustwhentheyarecurledupwitha book.

Takeeveryopportunitytoencouragereadingineveryday situations,whetherthat’sstreetsigns,informationboards, menus,recipes,advertsorfoodpackaging.Thesesmall momentsallhelpbuildconfidenceandfluency.

Thekeyroleforparentsistocheckunderstanding.Children canoftendecodewordsandreadthemaloudwithout fullyunderstandingwhattheyhaveread,soaskingsimple questionsanddiscussingmeaningisessential. Ifyourchildhasaninterestinanothersubject,suchas maths,considerbuyingworkbooks.Lookforproblem-solving activitiesthatincludewrittenquestions,astheseencourage themtoengagewithreadingwhiledoingsomethingthey alreadyenjoy.

Readingabilitysupportssuccessacrossallsubjects.Bydoing theabove,youwillbehelpingensurethatyourchildisnot onlylearningtoreadbutalsoabletoreadtolearn.

Encouragingyourchildtoreadabookseriesisanothereasywin. Oncetheyarehookedonasetofbooks,there’snoneedtokeep searchingforwhattoreadnext.Foryoungerreaders,popular seriessuchas DiaryofaWimpyKid,TheWorstWitch or Horrid Henry canbegreatstartingpoints,whileolderchildrenmight enjoy PercyJackson,TheHungerGamestrilogy or HarryPotter.

Youcouldalsorefreshorredecorateyourchild’sbookshelfby donatingoldbooksandpickingupnewonesfromcharityshops. Thiscanbecomeafun,creativeproject,perhapsinvolving paintingorreorganisingthespace,whichhelpsmakereading feelmoreexciting.Italsokeepsyourchild’sreadingmaterial freshandengagingwithoutbeingexpensive.

Finally,trytomaintainorre-establishbedtimereadingroutines. Lightereveningscanmakebedtimemorechallenging,so keepingreadingaspartoftheroutineisevenmoreimportant.

Doaudiobookscount?

Longsummercarjourneysprovideagreatopportunityto engagewithbooksinadifferentway.Whiletravelling,try listeningtoaudiobooksasafamily.Sharingtheexperience anddiscussingthestorytogethercanhaveastrongimpact onyourchild’sinterestinreading.Startingafreetrialwitha servicelikeAudibleoverthesummercanbeaneasywayto begin.

Asateacher,Iamoftenmetwithscepticismfromparents whenIsuggestaudiobooks.Whiletheymaynotsupport decodingskillsasdirectlyasreadingprint,theyarehighly valuablefordevelopingaloveofstories,whichisespecially importantforreluctantreaders.

Listeningtostoriesalsohelpsbuildvocabularyand backgroundknowledgeandstudieshaveshownthatstrong backgroundknowledgecancompensateforweakerreading ability.It’snotjustaboutsoundingoutwordsbutabout understandingandmakingmeaningfromwhatisread. Finally,listeningitselfisanimportantskillthatisoften overlooked,soaudiobookscanplayavaluableroleinyour child’soverallliteracydevelopment.

WHAT’SON

Tutankhamun:TheImmersive Exhibition

NEC,Birmingham

Until13Sep

DiscoverthelegendoftheBoyKing likeneverbefore!Travelbackto ancientEgyptwith360ºvideo mapping,aseatedVRjourney,afree roamingMetaverse,authentic artefactsfromCairo,andmore.This award-winningexperiencehas dazzledaudiencesinthirteencities acrossthreecontinentsand captivatedover2.5millionvisitors. Don’tmisstheopportunityto experienceoneofthemostfascinating erasofhumanhistory. tutankhamunexperience.com /birmingham

Faerie-TaleAlpacas

FaerieTaleFarm,Kenilworth SelecteddatesinJul&Aug

Booka2-hourexperiencetomeetthe herdandlearnallaboutalpacas.You’ll gettocuddle,meet,feedandwalk themandalsomeetthemini-Shetland poniesandyoungalpacas.Suitablefor age7+.60-minutemeetandgreet availabletobookforyoungerchildren. faerietalealpacas.co.uk

WarwickshireLavenderFarm

Bubbenhall

Until9Aug

Enjoythegreatoutdoorsandcapture somebeautifulfamilyphotosatthe farm.Takeapicnicorenjoy refreshmentsatTheLavenderCafé. Atreatforallthesenses. warwickshirelavender.com

GladiatorsExperience NEC,Birmingham

Until31Aug

StepintotheArena!Forthefirsttime EVER,GladiatorsfansacrosstheUK willbeabletoputtheirspeed, strengthandskillstotheultimatetest, andtakeontheiconiceventsseenon thetelevisionshow.Awayfromthe Arenathere’sevenmorefunand family-friendlyattractions.Thisisan unmissableopportunitytoliveout yourGladiatordreams! thenec.co.uk/events/gladiatorsexperience

PeppaPigSpaceAdventure NEC,Birmingham

Until8Nov

BlastoffwithPeppaPigandher friendsonanout-of-this-world adventureforfamilieswithyoung children.Withhands-onplay, storytelling,andgentlesurprises throughout.Designedforpreschoolersandtoddlers,everyone welcome.Ticketsonline. Under2’sgoFREE. peppapigspaceadventure.co.uk

LoveRugbyFestival CaldecottPark,Rugby 4Jul(10:00–18:00)

Celebratetheclosingweekendof LoveRugbyFestivalwithallthefamily. Livemusic,food,drinks,FREE workshopsandfamilyfun. therugbytown.co.uk

GodivaintheCity CityCentre,Coventry 4&5Jul NEWtwo-daycelebrationoflive music,cultureandcreativity promotinglocalartistsandtalent. FREEandlow-costeventsthroughout theCityCentre. godivafestival.com

Rock‘n’Rumble

DraytonManor,Tamworth 4,5,11&12Jul

Getreadytocrankuptheenergythis summerwithanaction-packedevent fullofhigh-energyentertainment,big charactersandcountry-stylefun!Live shows,ShaniaTwainTribute,All AmericanWrestlingandfamily entertainmentacrosstheparkplusall yourfavouriteridesandattractions. draytonmanor.co.uk

Barker’sFunFair PumpRoomGardens, LeamingtonSpa 9-19Jul

Rollup,Rollup!Thefairisbackin town.Open Mon–Fri17:00–21:30, Sat13:00–22:00 and Sun13:00–18:00.Funforallthefamilythis summer. facebook.com/BarkersFunFair

OpenAirTheatre–Kaspar:Prince ofCats HillCloseGardens,Warwick 11Jul(17:00–18:00)

Amagicalfamilyadventurebroughtto lifebyGabriellaSillsProductionsand AlfrescoActorsthroughenchanting puppetry,originalmusicandvivid storytelling.Basedonthebookby MichaelMorpurgo.Ageguidance3+. hillclosegardens.com

CoventryFestivalofBooks CoventryCharterhouse,NationalTrust 11&12Jul

Frompage-turningtalkstohands-on workshops,immersiveexhibitsto creativeactivities,thisisafull weekendcelebrationofbooks, literacy,artandhistory,withafew delightfulplottwistsalongtheway. NationalTruststandardentryapplies. Allactivities(withtheexceptionof workshops)areFREE. rosiesretrobazaar.co.uk/coventrycharterhouse-book-events

Children’sOutdoorYoga BaddesleyClinton,NationalTrust 11Jul&1Aug(10:00–11:00) Fun-filledoutdooryogaforchildren aged3-7.Jumplikefrogsandstretch liketrees,beforerestingdownintoa shortrelaxationandmeditation. 60minsnature-basedsessionsinclude movement,stories,songsandcreative play.Childrenmustbeaccompanied byanadult.Yogamatsprovided. Normaladmissionfeesapplyfornonmembers.Bookingessential. nationaltrust.org.uk

SummerMakersMarkets FargoVillage,Coventry 18–19Jul (Sat11:00–17:00,Sun11:00-16:00) Shop,eat,explore,andenjoyfamilyfriendlyexperiences,creative workshopsandeverythingFarGo Villagehastoofferduringthesummer season. fargovillage.co.uk

KingArthurandtheHolyFail VariousVenues Grabyourticketsfortheultimate outdoortheatreexperiencefromThe ThreeInchFoolsthissummer.Bring yourownchairs,blanketsandpicnics andenjoytheshow!

CastleBromwichHistoricGardens 21Jul(16:00) CharlecotePark 1&8Aug(19:00) PackwoodHouse 28Aug(19:00) threeinchfools.com

WatersideSummerFestival Waterside,Stratford-upon-Avon 21–23Jul(10:00–17:00)

Celebratethespiritofthe CommonwealthGamesonWaterside thissummer!FREEfamily-friendly entertainmentforallagesplus InternationalStreetFoodandArtisan Market. lsdpromotions.com

WarwickFolkFestival CastlePark,Warwick 23-26Jul

Familyfriendlyfestivalshowcasingthe bestoftraditionalandcontemporary folkmusic,singing,dancing,food, familyentertainmentandworkshops warwickfolkfestival.co.uk

OutdoorCinema

CaldecottPark,Rugby 24–26Jul

ets, mily

It’sback!Grabyourblankets, bringyourfriendsandfamilyand enjoyamovieoutdoorsatthepark thissummer. therugbytown.co.uk

FestivalofSport PackingtonEstate,Meriden 24–27Jul

Don’tmissthisuniquechancetotry thesportsyoulove–wherefamilies canlearnfromrealsportinglegends andexperienceawiderangeof physicalactivitiestogether.Forall agesandallabilities.Plus,live entertainmentandoutdoorcinema, greatfood,wellnessmomentsand camping.Aweekendfulloffamilyfun! festivalofsportuk.com

SmithStreetParty SmithStreet,Warwick 25Jul(10:00–18:00)

Warwick’sbiggeststreetcelebrationis back!Streettraders,deliciousfood anddrink,livemusic,danceacts,face paintingandmore.Supportlocal businessesandenjoyagreatdayout. cjseventswarwickshire.co.uk

Inflatable5K UniversityofWarwick,Coventry 25Jul(09:00–14:30)

Getreadytojump,bounce,slideand swingthroughtheworld’sbiggestand craziestInflatable5KObstacle Course!2.5k,5k,10k&15kroute options.Forchildrenage5–15with anaccompanyingadult.Grabyour friendsandfamily,laceupyour trainersandhavefun!Familytickets available.Bookonline. ukrunningevents.co.uk

DozeunderDippy HerbertArtGallery&Museum Coventry 25-26Jul(18:30–09:00) Experienceasleepoverunlike anythingyou‘Ever-Saur’!Stay overnightinthemuseum,snoozing underthefeetofa26-foot Diplodocus!Anighttorememberfor alldinosaurloving6-11yearoldsand theirgrown-ups.AddasplashatThe Waveforjust£5perperson. dippyincoventry.co.uk

KenilworthFoodFestival AbbeyFields,Kenilworth 26Jul(11:00–17:00) Packedwithflavour,funand festivities,there’ssomethingforthe wholefamily.Deliciousfoodanddrink fromthefinestlocalflavoursto excitingregionalspecialities.Pluslive musicfromtalentedlocalbands. cjseventswarwickshire.co.uk

Events

GiantBubbles ComptonVerney

31Jul&5Aug(11:30,13:00&14:30)

Gatherroundtoseegiantbubblesfloat andpopabovethelawnsofCompton Verney.Getinvolvedduringthese 30-minutebubbledisplaysfeaturing bubblesofallshapesandsizes.Ledby circusperformersfromStormina Teacup.FREEwithdayadmissionor membership.Children18andunderget FREEentry. comptonverney.org.uk

CollectiverseWarwickshire NAECStoneleigh 1Aug(10:00–17:00)

Buy,sellandtradeyourfavouritecards! Whetheryou’realifelongcollectorora casualfanthiseventbringsthewhole tradingcardcommunitytogether. IncludingPokemonTCG,Yu-Gi-Oh, Magic,Disney,OnePiece,Sportsand muchmore.FREEchildren’sactivities withCovCardz.Ticketsonline. collectiverse-events.com

RootsFamilyFunFestival LavenderHallPark,BalsallCommon 1Aug(13:00–17:00)

FREEfestivalhostedbyTheGaiaRoots Foundationtoraisefundstohelp supportchildren,teensandadults mentalhealthandwellbeing. Bringthewholefamilyalongfora vibrantcelebrationpackedwithlive musicanddancing,wellness experiences,familyentertainment, deliciousfood,localcraftsand handmadegiftsandthechancetorelax andconnectwiththecommunity. instagram.com/p/DZIgwCuNx8m ArtinthePark

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JephsonGardens&Mill Gardens,LeamingtonSpa 1-2Aug(10:00–18:00)

pa showcasing the

FREEweekendfestivalshowcasingthe bestartists,theatreanddance performers,musiciansandcraftspeople inWarwickshireandtheMidlands.Live entertainment,food,drink, demonstrationsandworkshops. artinpark.co.uk

StJohn’sPlayhouse

StJohn’sHouse,Warwick 4Aug(10:00–15:00)

Playandexplorethedifferentthemes throughoutthehouseandgarden.Take partincrafts,messyplay,storytime, creativebuilding,outdoorgames, dressingupandlotsmore.Enjoystory timewithWarwickshireLibraries.Bring yourfriendsandfamilyfordayoutand apicnic.Forages1–7.Spaces limited. Bookingrequired. eventbrite.co.uk

FamilyRavers

Dhillon’sBrewery,Coventry 8Aug(13:00–18:00)

Partywithyourchildrenthissummerin asafeandsupervisedenvironment. Withbouncingcastles,facepainting, VRsystem,glittertattoosandacandy flossstationplusliveDJ.£5adults,£3 kidsover3,under3’sFREE. skiddle.com

LuntRomanFestival

LuntRomanFort,Coventry 8&9Aug(10:00–16:00)

SeetheuniqueRomanFortress broughttolifeinthisannualeventfor allages.Livegladiatorialactionshows, livinghistoryvillage,roman marketplace,birdsofpreydisplays, archerystand,familybattleandpalace ofsanctuary.Foodvendorsonsiteor bringapicnic. luntromanfort.org

LeamingtonSummerFestParade LeamingtonSpa 9Aug(10:00–17:00)

Giantmarket,mini-pop-upbeachwith bucketsandspadesforkidstoplay with,deliciousfood,drinksandtreat stalls,seathemedactivitiesand entertainment,liveperformancesand interactiveattractions!FREEentry. cjseventswarwickshire.co.uk

FamilySummerWildCampOut

RytonPoolsCountryPark, Ryton-on-Dunsmore 14-15Aug

Packyourtentandyoursenseof adventure…becausetheRangersare hostingtheultimatefamilysummer campoutthissummer!Arrivefrom11:00 onFridaytosetupyourpitchanddive straightintoafulldayandnightoffun. Whetheryouwantnonstopactivities orachilleddayinnature,thiscampout hassomethingforeveryone!Bookings close2Aug.£25perpitch,£15per participant,under3’sFREE. eventbrite.co.uk

Luminarium

ComptonVerney,NrWarwick 26–31Aug

Roundoffthesummerwithan immersivesensoryexperienceina giant,colourchanging,inflatablemaze. Sessionsare25mins.Entryticketin additiontoComptonVerneyadmission. SENsession(28Aug,10:00).Limited capacity,bookearly. comptonverney.org.uk

FamilyFossilHunt

CrossHandsQuarry,Moreton-in-Marsh 27Aug(11:00–14:00)

Enjoyadayfossilhuntingandexplore ourJurassicpastwithexpertguidance forchildrenaged7+.Allchildrenmust beaccompaniedbyanadult.£9per person.Spaceslimited,Booking required.Keepanythingyoufind! eventbrite.co.uk

OutdoorCinema

AnstyHall,Coventry 28Aug(20:30)

Sing(U) Thinkcosycharm,gourmet treatsandblockbusterentertainment! Grabyourblankets,bringyourfriends andfamilyandenjoythemovie! exclusive.co.uk/ansty-hall

CamperCallingMusicFestival

RagleyHall,Warwickshire

28-30Aug

NileRogers&Chic,PrimalScream, Five,JamesMorrisonandShedSeven topthebillatthisyear’sultimate family-friendlymusicfestival.Withan impressiveline-upofmanymoretop artists,livemusic,woodlandactivities, wateractivitiesonthelake,carnival field,foodtradersandachanceto explorethehouseandgardens–there’ssomethingforeveryone. 3nightscampingandNEWfor2026, campercalling.com

WolfRunJunior

Offchurch,LeamingtonSpa 13Sep

Childrenover7andteenagerscan getatasteoftheactionandenjoy wildrunningandobstaclesat WolfRunJunior.3kcoursewith optionalsecondlap! Bookingdeadline2Sep (12:00). thewolfrun.com

GetActive

AckersAdventure

Birmingham

Whatwillyournextfamily adventurebe?Choosefrom Snowsports(Ski,Tube,Snowboard orToboggan)orAdventurous activities(Archery,Axethrowing, Climb,Zipwire,Fandescender, Canoe,Kayak,Bellboat,Bushcraft orDiskgolf).BirthdayParties, HolidaySchemesandNEW SummerAdventure360Week. ackers-adventure.co.uk

AdventureGolf

Stonebridge 18holesofoutdooradventuregolf withuniqueobstacleslike waterfallsandsandtrapsand woodlandfriendswhomayhelp(or hinder)you!Open09:00–21:00 daily.Partypackagesavailable. stonebridgeadventuregolf.co.uk AdventureZone Rugby

SoftPlaycentreforchildrenaged 0-12.Plus10pinbowling,darts, crazygolf,pooltablesand shuffleboardsinStrikesBar. Funforallthefamily! theadventurezone.co.uk CoventrySoftPlay Tenpin,Coventry Letthekidsburnoffsomeenergy whilstyouwatchthefununfold! OpenSun–Thu10:00-19:00and Fri&Sat10:00–20:00.Including schoolholidays.ForToddlersaged 1&2andJuniorsaged3–12. tenpin.co.uk

AirHopTrampolinePark

Warwick NEWindoorslideparkand interactivefootballandsportspitch plusthesuperpopularWipeoutand aseaoftrampolines.Plus,the bounciestpartiesintown!The ultimateplayexperienceforall ages. airhop.co.uk

Gilly’sDiscGolf WayfieldGorse,Stratford-uponAvon Challengeyourfamilytoagameof discgolf!Scenicwoodlandcourses forbeginners,intermediateand advancedplayers.Funforallages, noexperiencenecessary. Openallyearround. gillysdiscgolf.co.uk

GoApe

Coventry

Thebestofhighropeantics,axe throwingandmini-LandRoversat CoombeAbbeyforthrill-seeking adultsandfun-seekingchildren. goape.co.uk

JuniorParkrun

Stratford-upon-Avon,Leamington, Rugby&Coventry AFREE,funandfriendlyweekly2K eventforjuniors(4-14yearsold) EverySundayat9:00.Children mustbeabletocompletethe coursewithoutanadult. parkrun.com

MrKarting

Warwick

Junior&FamilyArriveandDrive KartingplusChildren’sKarting parties.Perfectforcompetitivekids aged8+(andtheirgrown-ups!) Open7daysaweek. mrkarting.co.uk

RedKangaroo

Coventry

BouncerightintoRedKangaroo trampolinepark!There’ssomuch todoalongsidejumpingfuntokeep thekidsentertainedforhours! oxygenactiveplay.co.uk

SpotOnWake

Henley-in-Arden

TheUltimatewatersports destination!With3custom designedlakes,trywakeboarding, SUP(6+)ortheAquaJungle(8+). OpenThu–Mon. spotonwake.co.uk

StarPins

WestOrchards,Coventry Bowling,Ice-freeCurling,American Pool,Shuffleboard,ArcadeGames, TechDarts,MiniGolf,PingPong, VirtualShootingplusfoodand drink.Funforthewholefamily! starpins.co.uk

TheWave Coventry

Grabyour gogglesand enjoyafamilyday outatoneoftheUK’sawardwinningindoorwaterparksinthe heartofCoventryCityCentre! thewavecoventry.com

WarwickSportClimbingCentre WarwickUniversity Schoolagechildrenandadultscan tryclimbingorboulderingin Coventry.JuniorPay&Play, InstructorledsessionsplusKids Parties. warwick.ac.uk/services/sport /climbing/junior

SummerHolidays

BrandonMarshNatureReserve Coventry

SummerSessions Touchwood,Solihull

Selecteddates18Jul–31Aug

FREEeventsspeciallydesignedfor youngerchildrenandfamiliesfrom bubbleperformersandprincesspop showstodramaworkshops,artsand craftssessionsandchildren’sDJ parties.Plus,Touchwood’sUrban Beachisopendailyduringthe schoolholidaysforfamilyfun! (weatherpermitting). touchwoodsolihull.co.uk

Stratford Butterfly Farm

Stratford

-upon-Avon 18Jul–1Sep

ButterflyLifecycleandMeetthe Mini-Beastdemonstrationswilltake placedailyat 11:00–15:00 inthe DiscoveryZone.Expertswill demonstratefromeggthroughto adulttheamazingstagesofthe butterflylifecycleaswellas opportunitiestohandleavarietyof unusualstickinsects.Visitorswillbe encouragedtomakeagreenpromise andwriteapledgetohelpprotect nature.Thepledgeswillbeentered intoaweeklyprizedrawtowina familyseasontickettothebutterfly farm.

Stratford-upon-AvonButterflyFarmis takingpartintheGreatBritishSummer Savingsschemeandwillbepassingonthe VATsavingsonadmissiontovisitors throughoutthesummerholidays,from 25Juneto1September. butterflyfarm.co.uk

HattonAdventureWorld NrWarwick

18Jul–1Sep

TheGreatSummerofAdventure NEWAroundtheWorldin80Maize MazeandevenbiggerFoamParty, plusGuineapigVillage,Sheep Racing,Indoor/Outdoorplay,allday animalhandling,Scales&Tails, TractorSafariandsomuchmore! Warwickshire’sultimatefamily dayout. hattonworld.com

ComptonVerney NrWarwick

18Jul–31Aug

SummerofPlay

There’slotstodothissummerfrom FREEdropinsonWed–FritolowcostForestSchooleveryThursday duringtheholidays.Buildandstack withBigBlueBlocks,FireRocket CarsintotheskywithKinetonRAF STEM,Rollit,stampitandplungeit onArtistPrintandPlayDaysor contributetoTheWeave.Admission ormembershiprequiredforadults. Children18andundergoFREE. Checkonlineforspecialevents. comptonverney.org.uk

KenilworthCastleandElizabethan Garden

Kenilworth

18Jul–28Aug(10:00–17:00)

GreatBritishSummer Enjoyfairgroundactivities,pickup newtricksatthecircusskillsstation anddiveintosomepuppetantics. Kickbackinadeckchairwitha deliciousicecreamandsoakupthe summer.Plus,kidscangraba souvenirpassportandcollectspecial stampstocompletetheirsummer adventure.Bookearlyandsave15%. english-heritage.org.uk

PlanetIce

Coventry

Skateforfun,learntoskate(3dayor 5daycoursesstarting 27Jul)orbook apartythissummer. Plus, DiscoSkate! (24&31Jul,7,14, 21&28Aug) 2for1whenyoubook online.Iceskatingfunforallthe family.SavewithanIceCard Membership. planet-ice.co.uk

BoomBattleBar

Coventry

SchoolHolidaysMon–Fri (12:00–17:00)

TheFamilyBoomPackage Getthefamilytogetherandgameon! Pick3games(30minpergame). ChoosefromCrazyGolf, Shuffleboard,AmericanPool, KaraokeorDarts.£35familyof4. Childrenaged9–17,must include oneadult.Bookonline. boombattlebar.com/uk/coventry

RugbyArtGallery&Museum

RugbyTownCentre 19Jul–30Aug

ScrappySummer

PopalongtotheRAGMforafunfilledsummerofexcitingcrafts,play anddiscoveryforchildrenofallages. Explorethethemesofrecycling, reusingandrobots!FREEdropin craftsforthewholefamily.Plus, FREEthemedscavengerhunt throughoutthebuilding. ragm.co.uk/holidayfun

WarwickshireCountryParks

Selecteddates20Jul–28Aug Learnnewskills,connectwithnature andenjoysomefamilyfunthis summerat RytonPoolsCountry Park,KingsburyWaterpark, HartshillHayesCountryPark& BurtonDassettHills. FromPond DippingtoPopbottlerockets, NaturalArttoDens,hammocksand CampfireS/moresplusmuch,much more.Findyourperfectactivity onlineandmakememoriesoutdoors thissummer.Age3–12s. countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk /activities

There’slotsofoutdooradventuresto behadhereintermtimeandover theholidayswithweeklysessionsfor parentsandtoddlers,WildlifeWatch AfterSchoolclub,NatureTots, SaturdayNatureClubandaWild Explorersholidayclubfor8-13year olds.Fulldetailsonline. WilderFamiliesFest 25Jul ResidentsofCV1,CV3,CV5&CV6 postcodes (10:30–12:30) Opentoall (13:30–15:30) Tryallsortsofwildactivities includingbughunting,ponddipping anddenbuildingorjustrelaxinthe chilloutzoneandlistentosomewild stories.Forprimaryandsecondary agedchildrenbutyoungersiblings welcome.Comedressedforoutdoor fun!£5perfamily,bookonline. warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

HerbertArtGallery&Museum Coventry 25Jul–30Aug(Tue–Sun) Nature’sWonders

TakeatourthroughtheCurious Creatures,StonesandBones exhibition,beforesteppingintoa worldofdiscoverywithnatural historyinspiredcraftactivitiesfor curiousmindsofallages.Designbug hotels,decoratefriendshipstones, craftcolourfulwindsocksandmuch more.Newactivityeveryweek.FREE Drop-in.Includedwithadmission. theherbert.org CoventryTransportMuseum Coventry 29Jul–29Aug(Wed&Sat) BigvsSmall Unleashthepowerofplayand inventionthissummerandjointhe Tinker|Make|PlayFREEdrop-in workshops(11:00-15:30).Tinkerwith tools,makewithmaterialsandplay forfun!Willyouinventandcreatea giantbuildorthinksmalland mighty?Includedwithadmission. transport-museum.com

RSCFamilySummerActivities Stratford-upon-Avon AMidsummerNight’sDream FamilyTrail NEW outdoorimmersiveinstallation trailinspiredbyAMidsummer Night’sDream.Findhidden messagesfromthefairiesona playfuljourneyinspiredbytheworld oftheplay.Featuringcolourfulwoven structures,tyreplaysculpturesand pointsofsurprisethroughoutthe SwanandAvonBankGardens. ThePlay’sTheThing Mon-Sat (12:00–19:00) Sun(12:00-16:00)

FREEinteractiveexhibitionatthe SwanTheatrefeaturingitemsfrom theRSCCollection–oneofthe world’smostsignificantShakespeare archives.Explore400yearsof theatrewithcostumes,propsand hands-ondisplays. rsc.org.uk

EnchantedTeaRoom Leamington Variousdates Characterafternoonteapartiesand princesspamperrooms.Perfectfora summerholidaytreatorbirthday party.Suitableforchildrenage3–12. Bookonline. enchantedeventsuk.com

BelgradeTheatre Coventry

TheTigerWhoCametoTea Mon20&Tue21Jul

Agerecommendation:2+ IntheNightGardenLive Fri31Jul&Sat1Aug belgrade.co.uk

RoyalShakespeare Company Stratford-upon-Avon AMidsummerNight’sDream UntilSun30Aug

Agerecommendation:7+ rsc.org.uk

RoyalSpaCentre LeamingtonSpa FlowersandFriendship Bracelets Fri10Jul royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk

TheAlbanyTheatre Coventry

RareProductionsAddamsFamily Thu2–Sat4Jul

WingItTheatre:42ndStreet Thu13–Sat15Aug albanytheatre.co.uk

DaysOut

AllThingsWild

Tamworth

Interactwithfascinatinganimals, learnfromexpertkeepers,enjoya rideontheDinoTrainandexplore thewonderfulworldofDinosaurs. allthingswild.co.uk

AshEndHouseChildren’sFarm Honeybourne Hands-onfamily-friendlyfarm.Entry includesanimalfeed,tractor-trailer ride,pony-sit-onandlotsofanimal interaction.Outdoorplayareas available.Greatforchildrenparties! ashendchildrensfarm.co.uk

DraytonManor

Tamworth

Thrillsandadventureforallthe familytoenjoy.Ticketsinclude ThomasLand,a15-acrezoo,a Vikingsareaandnauticallythemed AdventureCove. draytonmanor.co.uk

HattonAdventureWorld NrWarwick

Fantasticdayoutforallthefamily. Comerainorshinethere’splentyto dowithindoorandoutdoor attractionsandentertainmentforall thefamily.UnlimitedSummerPass £39.95 hattonworld.com

NationalTrust Warwickshire

Getoutdoorswiththefamilyand explorethissummeratourlocal NationalTrustproperties:Baddesley Clinton;CoughtonCourt;Packwood House;CharlecotePark;Upton HouseandGardens;Farnborough Hall;KinwartonDovecoteand CoventryCharterhouse.See individualwebsitesforsummer holidayactivitiesandprices. nationaltrust.org.uk

TwycrossZoo

Atherstone

Withover100incredibleanimals,The GruffaloDiscoveryLand,Wet'n'Wild SplashPark,hands-onanimal experiences,naturereservesand indoorsoftplay,there’ssomething forallages.Payforadayandvisit FREEfor12months–perfectfor repeatfamilyadventures. twycrosszoo.org

WestMidlandsSafariPark

Bewdley

Four-miledrive-throughsafariwith over100differentspeciesthroughout thepark.Plus,themeparkand dinosaurexhibit.Stayovernightina LuxurySafariLodge.FREEreturn visitwithin6months. wmsp.co.uk

OutdoorFun

BrandonMarshNatureReserve

Coventry

Greatforscenicpools,reedbeds, grasslandandwoodlandoraspotof birdwatching.WithregularNature Totssessionsforpre-schoolchildren, WildlifeWatchafterschoolclubs, plusactivitysessionsduringschool holidays. warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

ComptonVerney

NrWarwick

Stunningparklandandlake,and woodlandadventureplayground. Award-winningartgallery,restaurant andgiftshop.Familyactivities. ClosedMondaysexceptBank Holidays. GiantBubbles 31Jul&5Aug. comptonverney.org.uk

CoombeAbbeyCountryPark

Coventry

With500acresofbeautifulgardens, woodland,lakesidewalksandbird hides,there’splentytoexplore.With greatoutdoorplayareas,acaféand avarietyofactivitiesfrompotteryto ponddipping,plusregulareventsin theparkandattheHotel.Agreat placeforafamilytrip,ascenicstroll orabikeride. coombeabbey.com

CountryParks

Warwickshire

Warwickshirecountryparksoffera diverseportfolioofgreenspaces withfivecountryparksandthree greenwayscoveringover1,200acres forfamiliestoenjoy.Enjoyasummer walk,abikerideormakeadayofit withfamilyandfriends. countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk

DraycoteWater

Rugby

Whetheryou’relookingforwalks, cycling,birdwatching,watersports, fishingoragreatchildren’soutdoor playarea,there’severythingyou needforagreatdayoutforthe wholefamily.DraycoteWaterisa 240-hectarereservoirandcountry parkopenfrom7:30–16:30daily withacafeandonsiteparking. stwater.co.uk/our-visitorsites/draycote-water

FoundryWood

LeamingtonSpa

Anurbancommunitywoodlandin theheartofLeamingtonSpaand Warwick.Learnaboutwoodland habitats,wildlifeconservation, traditionalwoodlandcrafts,and more.Regulareventsforfamiliesand wellbeingeventsforadults throughouttheyear.MonthlyPizza MakingonthelastSundayofeach month.

foundrywood.co.uk

HillCloseGardens

Warwick

RareVictorianGardenstoexplore withChildren’strailandspecial eventsandworkshopsthroughout theyear.Plus,specialchildren’s gardenwithmudkitchenwherekids canplant,water,weedandharvest fruitandvegetables,sogoprepared togetstuckin!OpenTue–Sun11:00 –16:00.Monthlydrop-in sessionsfortoddlers,preschoolchildrenandtheir parents/carers. Teddy BearsPicnic (20Aug, 12:00–15:00). £5perchild.Bookonline. hillclosegardens.com

Museums&History

BritishMotorMuseum

Gaydon

Exploreover400Britishclassiccars, takepartinthemedtrails,experience touchscreenexhibitsandunderstand howacarworks.Funforallthe family!

MellowMondaysRelaxedHours 15:00–17:00(6Jul&3Aug) britishmotormuseum.co.uk

CoventryPoliceMuseum CoventryCouncilHouse, CoventryCityCentre OpenThu&Fri(10:00–14:00)

Learnaboutpolicingthroughthe years,uniforms,confiscatedartifacts andcrimesthathaveneverbeen solvedfromretiredpoliceofficersand volunteers. museum.west-midlands.police.uk/ explore/coventry-police-museum CoventryTransportMuseum Coventry

Opendaily(10:00–16:30)

Visitthelargestpubliclyowned collectionofBritishvehiclesonthe planetandlearnabouthowCoventry changedtheworldthroughtransport. FamilyPlayZone (self-ledcrafts) transport-museum.com

HerbertArtGalleryandMuseum

Coventry

Theperfectplacetodelveinto Coventry’shistoryandengagewith artandculture.PLUSvisitDippythe DiplodocusfromtheNaturalHistory Museum. theherbert.org

LuntRomanFort NrCoventry

E xploretheuniqueRomanFortress, takinginthesitesoftheramparts,the granarybuildingandtheworld’sonly knowngyrus!OpenselectedSchool Holidays. luntromanfort.org

MADMuseum

Stratford-upon-Avon

Interactwithanimpressivecollection ofeccentricandingeniousartworks, contraptionsandmachinesatthe UK’sonlyMechanicalArtvenue. FREEfamilyactivitysheets,holiday competitionsandcraftfacilities. Bookingrequiredinschoolholidays. themadmuseum.co.uk

MidlandAirMuseum

Baginton,NrCoventry Experiencetheworldofaviationwith over45aircraftondisplay,Vulcan guidedtourandsit-inMeteorcockpit. TeaRoomandFREEparking. midlandairmuseum.co.uk

RomanAlcesterMuseum Alcester

OpenTue–Sat

Discoverartifacts,learnaboutRoman lifeanddelveintothecounty'sancient historytofindoutwhatlifewaslike therebetween1stand4thcenturies AD.AFREE,educationaland fascinatingdayoutforallthefamily. ClosedSundays&Tuesdays. romanalcester.org

RugbyArtGallery&Museum

RugbyTownCentre OpenTue–Sat FREEthemedscavengerhunts throughoutthebuildingeveryschool holidaypluslow-costactivitiesfor childrenofallagestogetinvolvedin. ragm.co.uk

ShakespeareBirthplaceTrust

Stratford-upon-Avon

Discoverthefascinatingstories behindtheworld’sgreateststoryteller acrosshisfamilyhomes.FREEFamily Trailsuitableforchildrenaged4+ includedinadmission. shakespeare.org.uk

Shakespeare’sSchoolroom &Guildhall

Stratford-upon-Avon

Visitthe600-year-oldbuildingwhere WilliamShakespearesatinthe1570s andwrotehisfirstworksand experienceTudorschoollife,dress,art andstories. shakespearesschoolroom.org

St.Mary’sGuildhall/TalesofTea Coventry

Visitthishistoricalgemintheheartof theCity.Discoverits700yearold historythenvisit TalesofTea inthe stunningvaultedUndercroft. stmarysguildhall.co.uk

WarwickCastle

Warwick

Explorethecastletowersand ramparts,groundsandgardens.With liveshows,eventsandextraordinary entertainmentforallthefamily.Shortbreakpackagesavailable.Don’tmiss VikingRaiders -Livestunt spectacularbringingtheageof SaxonsandVikingstolife. NEW for 2026. 11:30&14:30dailyuntil17Jul. warwick-castle.com

Celebratingyour child’samazing autisticbrain

ByEmilySnape

Weallwantourchildrentofeelgoodaboutwhotheyarebut forautisticchildren,thatconfidencedoesn’talwayscome easily.Onewaywecansupportthatisbyunderstanding autismandthemanyamazingstrengthsitbrings.

Astheparentofaneurodivergentchildmyself,I’veseenjusthow powerfulitcanbewhenwebegintounderstandandcelebrate howtheirbrainswork.Thosemomentswheresomethingsmall canfeeloverwhelmingbutalsothe incrediblefocus,honesty andcreativity thatcomewithit.Bynoticingbothsides,wecan helpourchildrendothesame.

Yourchildmightnoticetinydetailsthatothersmiss.Theymight haveabrilliantmemory,adeeppassionforthethingstheylove orawonderfullycreativewayofthinking.Theymightbefullof energy,honesty,curiosityorkindness.Thesearenotsmallthings -theyarerealstrengths.Butchildrendon’talwaysseethisin themselves,especiallyifthey’reoftenhearingaboutwhatthey findtricky.That’swhereyoucanreallyhelp.

Trytospotandgentlynameyourchild’sstrengthsineveryday moments.Youmightsay:‘Ilovehowyounoticedthat’or‘You workedsohardonthat,yourbrainisamazing.’Suchrepeated smallcommentshelpyourchildbegintorecognisetheirown abilities.

Itcanalsohelpto reframechallenges. Achildwhofeels overwhelmedbynoisemightalsohaveaverysensitiveand awarebrain.Achildwhotalksalotabouttheirfavouritetopic mighthaveafantasticabilitytolearnandshareinformation.

Seeingthestrengths withinthechallenges

Sometimesthethingsourchildrenfindhardestareclosely linkedtotheirstrengths.

Achildwhofeelsoverwhelmedinbusyornoisyplacesmay haveabrainthattakesinlotsofinformationatonce.Thatcan feelchallengingbutitalsomeanstheynoticethingsothers mightmiss.Achildwhofindssocialsituationsconfusing mayalsobethoughtful,honestandobservant.Achildwho prefersroutinemaybewonderfullyorganisedandfeelsafein structure.

Reframingthesemomentsdoesn’tmeanignoringchallenges. Itmeanshelpingyourchildunderstandthemselvesinakinder, morebalancedway.

Thewordsweusereallymatter.Insteadof‘toosensitive’you mightsay:‘Yourbrainnoticeslotsofthings.’Insteadof:‘You talktoomuchaboutthat’youcouldsay:‘Youhavesucha stronginterest-that’samazing.’ Overtime,yourchildbeginstoseethemselvesdifferently-not as‘toomuch’or‘notenough’butassomeonewiththeirown uniquewayofthinkingandbeing.

Byshiftingthewaywetalkaboutthesemoments,wehelpour childrenseethefullpicture.

Encourageyourchildtofollowwhattheylove. Theirinterests arewhereconfidencegrowsandwheretheyfeelmost themselves.Invitethemtoreflectonwhattheyenjoyandwhat they’regoodat.Simplequestionslike:‘Whatmadeyoufeel proudtoday?’canbuildself-awarenessovertime.

Youcanalsomodelself-acceptancebycelebratingdifferences ineverydaylife.Readbookstogetherthatshowdiverseminds, talkopenlyaboutfeelingsandhighlightrolemodelswhothinkin uniqueways.Inviteyourchildtoteachyouabouttheirinterests soyoushareaconnection.Mostimportantly, remindyourchildoften: thereisnooneelse intheworldquitelikethem. Whentheybegin toseethatforthemselves,itcanchange everything.

EmilySnapeistheauthorof MyAmazing AutisticBrainandMyAmazingADHDBrain (Summersdale).Sheispassionateabout helpingchildrenunderstandandcelebrate howtheirbrainswork.

Simplewaystohelpyour childseetheirstrengths

Helpingyourchildrecognisetheirstrengthscanhappen throughsmall,everydaymoments.

Noticeandnameyourchild’sstrengthsineverydaysituations; CreateaMyStrengthsspaceathomewithdrawings,photos ornotes;

Shareyourownstrengthsandchallengestonormalise differences; Keepencouragementgentleandconsistent; Overtime,yourchildbeginstobelievethesethingsabout themselvesandbuildsastrongersenseofconfidence.

Didyouknow?

Autisticbrainsactuallyprocesstheworldwitharichnessof observationandsensorydetailthatmanyneurotypicalpeople missentirely.Thisintense,sometimeshyper-focuseddepthof attentionistherootofmanyautisticstrengths.

Learningbeyondthe classroom

ByZuzuJordan

Someoftherichestandmostmemorablelearninghappens beyondtheclassroom.Whilesomechildrenenjoythe structureofdesks,carpetsessionsandateacheratthefront, everychildgainsfromopportunitiestoexplore,move,talk, questionandexperiencetheworldaroundthem.

Furthermore,learningcertainlydoesnothavetostopwhenthe schooldayends.Whenchildrenaregiventhechancetolearn throughlife,nature,playandhands-onexperiences,theyoften developconfidence,curiosityandadeeperunderstandingof whattheyarediscovering.

Thelongsummerholidayistheperfecttimetoexperience educationanywhere.Awalktothepark,atriptothe supermarket,bakinginthekitchenorhelpingtowashthecar canallbuildvaluableskills.Whenchildrenarerelaxedand engaged,theyoftenabsorbmorethanwerealise.Theyare noticing,questioning,comparing,solvingproblemsandmaking senseoftheworldaroundthem.

Outdoorlearningisawonderfulexampleofthis.Many schoolsnowuseForestSchoolapproachestogivechildren hands-onopportunitiesinnaturalspaces. Inawoodlandor garden,childrencanidentifyplants,compareleaves,search forminibeasts,spotseasonalchangeandtalkaboutweather, habitatsandgrowth.Physicaldevelopmentissupportedthrough climbing,balancingandlifting.Languagegrowsthrough conversationandstorytelling.Mathsappearsnaturally,as childrencountsticks,sortstones,measurepuddlesornotice patternsinpetalsandbark.

Somefamiliesenjoycreating themedweeks duringtheholidays andthiscanbeabrilliantwaytoimmersechildreninatopic.

Oneweekmightbeallaboutvolcanoes.Youcouldvisita museumtogether,getthemtowritetoavolcanologist,build avolcanoathome,readrelatedbooksandcreatefactfilesor drawingsinspiredbywhattheyhavelearned.This immersive approachallowschildrentodeepdiveintoasubject and makelinksbetweenreading,writing,speaking,science,artand researchinawaythatfeelsexcitingratherthanforced.

Learningbeyondtheclassroomfeelspurposeful.Childrencan seewhytheyaredoingsomething.Readingarecipehelpsmake lunch.Countingcoinsmattersbecausetheyarebuyinganice

cream.Writingalistisimportantbecausethefamilyneedsto rememberwhattopack.Theseordinarymomentshelpchildren buildconfidencebecausethelearningisimmediate,usefuland enjoyable.

Wemustalsorememberthat lifeskillsareanimportantpart oflearning outsidetheclassroom.Howdoyoucatchabusora train?Howdoyoureadatimetable,buyaticketandknowwhen togetoff?Howdoyouplanameal,shopfortheingredients andthencookitsafely?Theseexperiencesinvolvereading, sequencing,moneyskills,problemsolvingandindependence. Theyalsohelpchildrenfeelmorecapableintheworldaround them.

Childrendonotneedexpensivedaysoutorperfectlyplanned activities.Someoftherichestlearningcomesfromsimple, everydayroutines.Gardeningteachespatience,careand lifecycles.Buildingadendevelopsteamwork,creativity andperseverance.Ajourneyonpublictransportcanspark conversationsaboutdirections,maps,numbersandthewider community.

Perhapsthemostimportantthingadultscandoisslow downandnoticethelearningalreadyhappening. Askopen questions.Wonderaloud.Givechildrentimetothink. Follow theirinterests,eveniftheyseemsmall.Whenwevaluelearning everywhere,childrenbegintoseethemselvesascapable learnerseverywheretoo.

ZuzuJordanisaMasteryforMathsSpecialistwhohastaughtprimary foreighteenyearsandisDirectorofArnettInternational.ForFREE resourcesandtips,findheronInstagram@edumate_uk

Touchtypingfor children

ByZuzuJordan

Intoday’sworld,digitalskillsarenolongeroptional.From schoolworktoeverydaycommunication,childrenare expectedtousetechnologywithincreasingconfidence. Developingasolidunderstandingofakeyboard,including wherelettersareandhowtousethemefficiently,isbecoming justasimportantashandwriting.

Touchtyping,theabilitytotypewithoutlookingatthekeys,isa valuableskillthatsupportsthis.Byfocusingontheirideasrather thansearchingforletters, childrenworkmorefluently andwith greaterindependence.Thisskillcanmakearealdifferenceto bothconfidenceandonlineperformance.

InEngland,theYear4 MultiplicationTablesCheck iscompleted onadevice,highlightinghowearlychildrenareexpectedto engagewithtechnologyinanassessmentcontext.Aschildren movethroughschool,theyincreasinglycreateextendedpiecesof writing,completeonlinetasksandcarryoutresearch,allofwhich requirebasictypingproficiency.

Forsomechildrenwithspecialeducationalneedsanddisabilities, touchtypingcanbeparticularlypowerful.Asanalternativefor thosewhofindhandwritingdifficultortiring,touchtypingcan alloweasierandmoreconfidentexpression.

Therearesimplewaysparentscansupportthisathome.Show childrenthatthe‘F’and‘J’keyshavesmall,raisedbumps,these are guidesfortheindexfingers andhelpthemfindthehome positionwithoutlooking.Encouragechildrentokeeptheirfingers restingonthehomerowandpractiselittleandoftenratherthan forlongperiods.

Turningpracticeintogamescanmakeabigdifferenceandthere arehelpfultoolsavailable.Colour-codedkeyboardsfrom companiessuchasQwerkey(Instagram@qwerkeyuk)support childreninlearningthelayoutmoreeasily.Alsolookonlineforfun andengagingkeyboardgamesandactivities.

Trybuildingtypingintoeverydaylife; whetherashoppinglist,a shortmessagetoafamilymemberorasimplediaryentryabout theirday.Challengeyourchildtotypewithoutlookingatthe keyboardorbeattheirowntime.Keepingitpracticaland meaningfulhelpschildrenseethepurposebehindtheskill. Touchtypingdoesnotneedtofeellikeaformallesson.Withthe rightsupportandaplayfulapproach,childrencandevelopaskill thatwillbenefitthemacrosssubjectsandthroughouttheirlives.

ZuzuJordanisaMasteryforMathsSpecialistwhohastaught primaryforeighteenyearsandisDirectorofArnett International.ForFREEresourcesandtips,findheron Instagram@edumate_uk

Independent&SelectiveSchools

Coventry&Warwickshire

ArnoldLodge LeamingtonSpa (Ages4-18) arnoldlodge.com

OpenDay:Sat26Sep 10:00–13:00

BiltonGrange Rugby (Ages3-13) biltongrange.co.uk

TheKingsleySchool LeamingtonSpa (Ages3-18) thekingsleyschool.co.uk

PrepandJuniorSchools

BablakePrePrep Coventry bablake.com

BablakeJunior Coventry bablake.com

CrackleyHallSchooland LittleCrackersNursery Kenilworth crackleyhall.co.uk

Reception&Year3

OpenEve:Thu24Sep From18:00

CrescentSchool Rugby crescentschool.co.uk

Reception&Year3

OpenEve:Tue29Sep From18:00

KingHenryVIIIPre-Prep Coventry kinghenrys.co.uk

KingHenryVIIIJunior Coventry kinghenrys.co.uk

StratfordPreparatorySchool Stratford-upon-Avon stratfordprep.co.uk

TheCroftPreparatorySchool Stratford-upon-Avon croftschool.co.uk

WarwickJuniorSchool Warwick warwickschool.org

OpenEve:Fri3Jul 16:30–18:00

WarwickPreparatorySchool

Warwick warwickprep.com

OpenDay:Sat19Sep 09:30–12:15

SeniorSchools

BablakeSenior Coventry bablake.com

KingHenryVIIISenior Coventry kinghenrys.co.uk

King’sHigh Warwick kingshighwarwick.co.uk

OpenEve:Fri3Jul 16:30–19:30

PrincethorpeCollege Rugby princethorpe.co.uk

OpenDay:Sun13Sep 14:00–17:00

RugbySchool Rugby rugbyschool.co.uk

WarwickSeniorSchool Warwick warwickschool.org

GrammarSchools

KingEdwardVISchool

Stratford-upon-Avon Boysonly kes.net

StratfordGirlsGrammar School

Stratford-upon-Avon Girlsonly sggs.org.uk

AlcesterGrammarSchool Alcester Co-Ed alcestergs.co.uk

LawrenceSheriffSchool Rugby Boysonly lawrencesheriffschool.net

RugbyHighSchool Rugby Girlsonly rugbyhighschool.co.uk

AshlawnSchool Rugby Co-Ed ashlawn.org.uk

Freshwaysto preparekidsfor September

ByEllieMalt

Whetheryourchildisstartingschoolfortheveryfirsttime ormovingsomewherenew,preparationisn’taboutgetting everythingperfect,it’sabouthelpingthemfeelsecure.

Adviceaboutuniforms,routinesandpackedlunchesisfamiliar; however,therearesomelessobviouswaysparentscanhelp theirchildrenfeelreadyforchange.

Startingschoolforthefirsttime

Practise‘micro-independence’

Ratherthanfocusingonlyonbigmilestoneslikeusingthetoilet orwritingtheirname,buildindependenceinsmall,everyday ways.Encourageyourchildtoopensnackpackets,putontheir owncoatoraskforhelpfromanotheradult.Thesetinyvictories makeabigdifferenceinaclassroom.

Talkaboutfeelingsinadvance(notjustfun)

Insteadofonlyemphasisingexcitement,gentlyintroducethe ideathatit’sokaytofeelnervous,shyorevenabitcross.Giving childrenlanguagefortheseemotionshelpsthemcopewhen theyarise.

Createa‘goodbyeritual’

Ritualcanbeapowerfultoolinhelpingchildrenfeelsecure atthestartoftheday.Apredictableroutinesuchasaspecial phrase,aquickhug,ahigh-fiveorawaveatthewindowhelps createaclearandreassuringtransitionbetweenhomeand school.Thekeyisconsistency,soyourchildcanrelyonit.Over

Startinganewschoolyear

Evenwhenchildrenarereturningtothesameschoolthere arethechallengesofnewteachers,classrooms,subjects andfriendshipstobefaced.Helpthemsettlebackin smoothly:

Resetroutinesgradually. Don’twaituntilthenightbefore termstarts.Beginadjustingbedtimes,mealtimesandmorning routinesatleastaweekinadvance.

Reflectbeforeyoureset. Haveachataboutlastyear-what theyenjoyed,whattheyfoundtrickyandwhatthey’rehoping forthisyear.Thishelpschildrenfeelheardandmoreincontrol. Smallrefreshes. Asmall‘back-to-schoolrefresh’-likeanew pencilcaseorreorganisedworkspace-canfeelmotivating. Normalisewobbles. Evenconfidentchildrencanfeelunsettled atthestartofterm.Remindthemthatit’snormaltoneedtime toadjust,especiallywithnewteachersorclassmates. Reconnectsocially. Ifpossible,arrangeameet-upwithfriends beforeschoolstarts.Gettingbackinthegroovewithfriends canmakeallthedifferencetodayone.

time,thissmallmomentofconnectionbuildsemotionalsecurity andcansignificantlyreduceseparationanxiety.

Buildstaminafortheschoolday

Schoolistiring.Intheweeksbeforeterm,graduallyintroduce longerperiodsofactivityfollowedbyrest,mirroringtherhythm ofaschoolday.Thishelpsavoidoverwhelminthosefirstfew weeks.

Usestoriestorehearsescenarios

Usebooksandroleplaygamestoexploresituationslikemaking friends,askingtogotothetoiletorwhathappensifsomething goeswrong.Childrenabsorbthesescriptsnaturallythroughplay.

Movingtoanewschool

Focusoncontinuity

Helpyourchildidentifywhatwillstaythesame-theirinterests, favouritehobbies,familyroutines.Thisreinforcestheideathat schoolisjustonepartoftheirlifeandnotthebeallandendall, makingthetransitionfeellesslikeacompleteupheaval.

Maketheunfamiliarfeelfamiliar

Walkordrivetheroutetoschoolaspracticeandlookatphotos ofitonline.Evensmalldetailslikeknowingwherethetoilets arecanreducefirst-dayanxiety.It’stemptingtotellchildren everythingatoncebuttoomuchdetailcanincreaseanxiety. Offerinformationinsmall,manageablechunksandanswer questionsastheycome.

Encourage‘bridgefriendships’

Ifyourchildknowsevenonepersonatthenewschool,help nurturethatconnectionoverthesummer.Evenifthatfriendship doesn’tlastbeyondthefirstfewweeks,itcanbereallyhelpful incalmingthosenervesinthebuilduptostartingattheschool andduringthosefirstfewdaysofterm.

Makeaminibreaktimeplan

Keepexpectationssmallbyputtinginplacethe JustOne plan: smileatoneperson,talktoonenewpersonandlearnonenew name.Encourageyourchildtolookoutforgamesthatareeasy tojoin,suchasfootballortag,whichnaturallywelcomenew players.Thesesimplestrategiesgivechildrenasenseofcontrol andmakebreaktimesfeelfarlessdaunting.

Beforetermstarts,helpyourchildpractiseaneasy‘firsthello’ suchas:‘CanIjoinin?’or‘Whatareyouplaying?’sotheyhave somewordsreadytofallbackon.

Findyourtribe

Joiningclubscanmakeamassivedifferencewhenchildrenstart anewschool.It’softeneasiertomakenewfriendsoutsidethe classroominanenvironmentthat’smoreabouthavingfunthan sittingstillandlisteningtotheteacher.

Activitieswithotherkidswhohavesimilarinterestscreatea senseofbelonging.Ultimately,itcanhelpchildrensettlemore quickly,bymakingthemfeelcomfortableandconnected.