Warwickshire
IN THIS ISSUE
Back to School Autumn Fun What’s On Guide
Issue 91 September/October 2026
familiesonline.co.uk
CONTENTS Contact us
Hello Autumn! Are you wishing the summer could have gone on forever OR looking forward to having the kids back at school or nursery and returning to your usual routine? Either way, there’s a lot to love about autumn. The beginning of a new academic year often feels like a fresh start and can be an exciting time for children, even if it takes a few weeks for you all to settle into the groove. There’s lots to help you in this issue. Our Back to School section has some great articles like What to expect from the first few weeks of term; Using anchoring to calm anxiety and Delicious AND nutritious lunch box ideas. Plus, find out how sport and education can work together to improve children’s confidence, resilience and support their progress in the classroom. It shouldn’t be all work and no play though! Use our What’s On Guide to plan some fun activities for the family and keep the kids entertained over the October Half-Term. See our pick of the best pumpkin patches and lovely farm shops to get you in the spirit for Halloween. Encourage the family to become autumn detectives next time you’re out for a walk and see if you can solve our nature mysteries. Follow the clues, get curious and uncover the hidden stories of the season. Finally, enter our giveaway to win an Ultimate Stitch Interactive Plush Toy, worth £80 each! Apply inside and receive our e-newsletter with even more giveaways and an online version of the magazine to share with your friends and family. Enjoy the magazine!
Claire
editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk 07938 657719 familieswarwickshiremag familieswarwickshiremag
In this issue 4 6 8 11 12
Autumn Fun Sport What’s On Guide Early Years Back to School
Editor – Families Warwickshire & Families Birmingham
CHILD FRIENDLY WARWICKSHIRE
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AUTUMN FUN
Become an autumn detective: solving nature mysteries Autumn leaves clues everywhere. A chewed acorn beneath a tree. A seed spinning on the wind. A cluster of berries shining among the leaves. Trees are preparing for winter, animals are gathering food and hidden communities are working beneath our feet. This autumn, take a notebook outside and become a nature detective. Your job is to follow clues, ask questions and uncover the hidden stories of the season.
THE TREE THAT LET GO
THE TRAVELLING SEED
Collect three fallen leaves in different colours and compare their veins, edges and textures.
Search for seeds with wings, parachutes or other unusual shapes. Some spin on the wind, others hitchhike on passing animals or are carried inside fruit.
A tree spends all summer growing its leaves, then in autumn they fall. Before it does, it recovers valuable nutrients stored inside them, including sugars and nitrogen. What you could find: leaves from trees like oak, beech, maple What advantages might a bare tree have during winter?
Drop a few different seeds and watch how they fall. Do they tumble, spin or float? What you could find: sycamore seeds with wings, burdock seeds with hooks and burrs
THE BERRY ADVERTISEMENT
THE ANIMAL NOBODY SAW
Bright berries appear on hedges, shrubs and some trees in autumn. Why would a plant make its fruits so easy to see?
Something visited before you arrived but you just missed it. Scavenge the undergrowth for chewed pine cones, empty acorn cups or cracked nutshells. Scientists learn much about animals from the evidence they leave behind.
Notice which berries stand out most clearly against the leaves around them. Birds often swallow berries whole and carry the seeds away inside them, dropping them somewhere new. What you could find: blackberries on bushes and rowan berries on trees What do you think the plant gets out of that arrangement?
THE MUSHROOM THAT APPEARED OVERNIGHT Search for fungi growing on logs, tree stumps or among fallen leaves, and compare their shapes and colours. The mushroom is only part of the fungus, the fruit; most of the fungus may be hidden underground or within wood, sometimes spanning an area larger than a football pitch. What could you find: fly agaric, oyster mushrooms, turkey tail fungi and inky caps…but remember: look, DON’T TOUCH, as some fungi are poisonous.
If you could see beneath the surface of the field, how large do you think the hidden part might be?
What could you find: feathers, pine cones and nuts that have been gnawed on, paw prints in the mud
What do your clues suggest about what happened here?
THE CITY UNDER THE LEAVES Choose a small patch of leaf litter and carefully look underneath. Worms, woodlice, beetles and millipedes may all be working together to break down dead plant material and return nutrients to the soil. Without them, fallen leaves would simply accumulate and the nutrients locked inside them would never be released. What could you find: worms, woodlice, small beetles, millipedes
How many different residents can you find in one patch?
Every clue tells part of a larger story. Leaves fall and release nutrients, seeds disperse, berries draw in birds, fungi thread through the soil and tiny creatures work beneath the leaf litter. The season that looks like an ending is actually a very busy beginning. Written and illustrated by Ria Mishaal, owner of Curiosity Companions (www.curiositycompanions.com) which offers nature education subscriptions for ages 4 to 12.
4 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk
STRATFORD-UPON-AVON
BY PA UL HU NT ER M AS BY AL EX AN DR E DU FR OM TH E NO VE L
AL L F OR O N E U N F OR GETTABLE CHRISTMA S ADVENTU RE New Work at the RSC is generously supported by Hawthornden Foundation and The Drue and H.J. Heinz II Charitable Trust
SPORT
How sport and education can work together By Dennis J Smith (M.Ed) Back to school and to the excitement of a new school year. New teachers, new classrooms, new friendships and new opportunities can all help create a sense of anticipation. While some children may feel a little nervous, many are also eager to return to familiar routines and activities. For parents, the start of a new term is often a good time to think about how children can enjoy a healthy balance between education, sport and family life. Over many years of working with young people, I have seen how participation in sport can often support progress in school. Children who take part in football, swimming, tennis, rugby, athletics, dance or other activities frequently develop qualities that can also help them in the classroom. Sport encourages perseverance, concentration, self-discipline and resilience. Young people learn that improvement usually comes through regular effort rather than instant success. They discover how to cope with setbacks, learn from mistakes and keep trying when things become challenging. These are valuable lessons both on the sports field and in school. However, balance remains important. Children benefit most when sport is enjoyable rather than becoming another source of pressure. Not every child wishes to become a champion and that is perfectly acceptable. The real value often lies in participation, friendship, enjoyment and personal development.
The same principle applies to education. While academic progress matters, children should not feel that their worth depends entirely on test scores or examination results. Confidence often grows when parents focus on effort, attitude and gradual improvement rather than constant comparison with others. The principle to education. Whilecan academic Assame the new schoolapplies year gets going, parents help by progress matters, children shouldRegular not feelsleep, that their worth encouraging positive routines. healthy meals, depends entirely on test scores or examination results. reading, outdoor activity and organised preparation for the Confidence grows when on effort, attitude school dayoften all contribute to aparents calmer focus and more successful start. and gradual improvement rather than constant comparison with others. Most importantly, children benefit from knowing that home is a place of encouragement and support. A simple conversation Asafter the new school year interest gets going, parents help by school, showing in what theycan enjoyed, learned or encouraging Regular sleep, healthy experiencedpositive during routines. the day, can sometimes be moremeals, valuable reading, outdoorsolely activity organised preparation for the than focusing onand performance. school day all contribute to a calmer and more successful start. A new school term offers a fresh opportunity for children to grow Most importantly,develop childrennew benefit that home is a in confidence, skillsfrom and knowing enjoy new experiences. place of education, encouragement andfamily support. A simple When sport and support workconversation together, young after school, interest in what they enjoyed, learned or people are showing often able to achieve their potential while maintaining experienced during day, can a healthy sense ofthe balance andsometimes wellbeing. be more valuable than focusing solely on performance. With a background in education, sport science and coaching,
A new school term offers a fresh opportunity for children to grow Dennis J Smith offers an affordable twelve-unit online course for in parents confidence, newYoung skillsAthletes, and enjoy new experiences. titleddevelop Supporting designed to help When education, sportbuild and confidence family support work together, young children enjoy sport, and reach their potential in people are often able to achieve their potential while maintaining a healthy, balanced way. First unit completely FREE. Email a healthy sense of balance and wellbeing. scholarlyachievement@gmail.com for more information.
Helping young athletes build lasting confidence
Keeping life balanced during term time
Confidence is one of the greatest gifts that sport can offer a child but it rarely develops overnight. Instead, it grows gradually through positive experiences, encouragement and learning how to cope with challenges.
Whilst education is important, children benefit most when school remains part of a balanced and enjoyable life. As a new term begins, families can sometimes focus heavily on homework, tests and academic progress. However, children often achieve more when learning is balanced with activities that support confidence, wellbeing and happiness.
Parents play a vital role in this process. Children often judge their own performance through the reactions of the adults around them. A supportive comment after a match, race or competition can have a lasting impact. Statements such as: ‘I enjoyed watching you play’ or ‘I loved your effort today’ help children feel valued regardless of the result. Mistakes are also an important part of development. Every athlete experiences setbacks, disappointments and periods when progress feels slow. Children who learn that mistakes are opportunities to improve are more likely to persevere and remain motivated. Rather than focusing solely on winning, parents can encourage effort, commitment, learning and enjoyment. When children feel accepted whether they succeed or struggle, they develop confidence that extends beyond sport, school, friendships and everyday life too. 6 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk
Sport, creative arts and hobbies help children develop resilience, self-discipline and social skills. Family visits to local libraries, walks in parks and the countryside and relaxing with friends also contribute positively to a child’s development. Don’t let schoolwork dominate every conversation at home. Children need opportunities to switch off, recharge and enjoy themselves. A balanced lifestyle often improves concentration, motivation and emotional wellbeing. Every child is different. Some enjoy competitive sport, whilst others prefer reading, creative activities or spending time outdoors. The key is helping children maintain interests that support confidence, happiness and healthy development alongside their educational progress.
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WHAT’S ON
Autumn fun for all the family A guide to What’s On in Coventry and Warwickshire
Events Fireworks Champions Ragley Hall, Alcester 19 Sep Get ready for a night of four jawdropping displays as the UK’s best firework companies compete against each other to light up the sky in a thrilling competition, followed by a breath-taking closing display! fireworkchampions.co.uk
Heritage Open Days Coventry & Warwickshire 11 - 20 Sep Each September thousands of volunteers across the country invite you to experience local history, architecture and culture. All for FREE! Visit heritageopendays.org.uk to check the directory for events near you. September Music Kenilworth Castle & Elizabethan Gardens 6, 13, 20 & 27 Sep (10:00 – 17:00) Spend a relaxing Sunday listening to live music in this historic setting. Bring your chairs or blankets, grab a refreshing treat from the café and enjoy a wonderful day of music with the whole family. Book early and save 15%. english-heritage.org.uk Sk8house Roller Discos Stratford-upon-Avon & Kenilworth Castle Farm Sports Centre, Kenilworth Every Fri from 4 Sep (18:30 – 20:00) Stratford Leisure Centre Every Sat from 5 Sep (17:00 – 18:30) With the funkiest beats and the grooviest tunes, bring your friends and family to the most epic, fun packed roller disco parties at venues all across the UK. Get your skates on (Bring your own or hire them on the day) and slide onto the dance floor! sk8house.co.uk Family Bat Night Brandon Marsh, Coventry 11 Sep (18:30 – 20:00) Unique evening for all the family (age 4+) to discover more about the world of bats. Use a bat detector on a short walk around the reservoir and see how many you can spot. Places are limited. Family tickets available. Book online. warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk Outdoor Cinema Coombe Abbey, Coventr The Greatest Showman Sing-A-Long (PG) 11 Sep (18:00) Frozen Sing-A-Long (PG) 12 Sep (12:00) The Gruffalo and Stick Man (U) 13 Sep (09:30) Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration (PG) 13 Sep (14:00) Star Wars: A New Hope (U) 13 Sep (18:30) Grab your blankets and your popcorn, bring your friends and family and enjoy the movie! Tickets online. adventurecinema.co.uk
Sausage and Cider Festival St Nicholas Park, Warwick 12 Sep (14:00 – 23:00) Huge outdoor stage with plenty of live entertainment. 30 types of cider and 20 sausage flavours. Children’s tent with science and circus workshops and mini ravers! Silent disco, axe throwing, eating competition and festival market. Family tickets available. sausageandciderfest.co.uk/warwick
Room on the Broom Corn Maze Twycross Zoo, Atherstone 1 – 31 Oct NEW for 2026 - Step into a spellbinding world of fun, surprises and plenty of whooshing, zooming fun for the whole family. Wander through towering corn, follow the trail of magical clues and discover cheeky creatures along the way. Perfect autumn adventure for little explorers. twycrosszoo.org
Leamington Food Festival Pump Room Gardens, Leamington Spa 12 & 13 Sep (10:00 – 18:00) FREE 2-day event celebrating the best in local and regional food and drink plus entertainment from the bandstand and demonstrations from the Live Cookery Theatre. leamingtonfoodfestival.co.uk
Comedy Club 4 Kids Royal Spa Centre, Leamington Spa 3 Oct Watch the best comedians from the UK and world circuit doing what they do best... but without the rude bits! Recommended for children age 6+ and their families. royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk
Tutankhamun: The Immersive Exhibition NEC, Birmingham Until 13 Sep Discover the legend of the Boy King like never before! Travel back to ancient Egypt with 360º video mapping, a seated VR journey, a free roaming Metaverse, authentic artefacts from Cairo, and more. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience one of the most fascinating eras of human history. tutankhamunexperience.com /birmingham
Warwick Dragon Boat Race St. Nicholas Park, Warwick 19 Sep (07:30 – 17:00) Enjoy the thrills, and hopefully not too many spills, of the Warwick Dragon Boat race on the River Avon. An exciting and unique event, presented by The Rotary Club of Warwick Avon, in conjunction with Warwick Boats. Refreshments available. facebook.com/WarwickAvonRotary
8 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk
Warwick Words History Festival Various venues, Warwick 5 - 11 Oct Wide-ranging programme of events celebrating 10 years of the History Festival in Warwick. Tickets online or via Box Office 01926 33 44 18 and Leamington Spa and Warwick Visitor Information Centres. warwickwords.co.uk
Warwick Mop Fair Town Centre, Warwick 16/17 & 23/24 Oct Traditional annual funfair that has been part of Warwick’s history for nearly 700 years! With rides and stalls for all the family. warwickmopfair.co.uk The Wind in the Willows Macready Theatre, Rugby 28 Oct Join Mole and Ratty on their marvellous adventures, along with gruff old Badger and magnificent Mr Toad. A beautiful new adaptation of this much-loved classic by awardwinning theatre company Box Tale Soup. Wonderful puppetry, innovative theatre and a charming original score. Recommended age 4+. ticketsource.com/rugby-arts Let’s Dance! My First Concert Warwick Arts Centre 29 Oct (13:00 – 14:00) Relaxed and interactive concert designed especially for babies, children and their adults. A wonderful way to enjoy music as a family. warwickartscentre.co.uk Fireworks Extravaganza – with a spooky feel! The Lant Sportsground, Balsall Common 31 Oct Prepare for a spooktacular night of family fun! Halloween atmosphere, spectacular fireworks and great attractions for the whole family. balsallcommonlions.org Diwali Celebration Rugby Town Centre 1 Nov Unforgettable Diwali celebration featuring performances, cultural displays, delicious cuisine, family activities and live entertainment. Gather with friends, family and neighbours to celebrate the joy of the Festival of Lights. therugbytown.co.uk
FREE Family Events Warwick Arts Centre Musical Picnics 11 Oct & 8 Nov Mini Creatives 6, 13, 20 & 27 Oct Family Sundays 11, 18, 25 & 31 Oct Family singing 25 Oct There’s always something going on for families here. Just drop in and join in. Suitable for all and FREE. warwickartscentre.co.uk National Brick Events Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Coventry 10 Oct (10:00 – 16:00) Calling LEGO lovers of all ages! National Brick Events are the ultimate destination for anyone who loves the joy of building with bricks. Prepare for a day filled with creativity, nostalgia, and pure LEGO magic! Family tickets available. Under 5’s FREE. nationalbrickevents.co.uk Stratford Mop Fair Town Centre, Stratford-upon-Avon 11/12 & 23/24 Oct Traditional annual funfair with roots tracing back to the 14th century. With rides and stalls for all the family. Facebook.com/StratfordMop
Peppa Pig Space Adventure NEC, Birmingham Until 8 Nov Blast off with Peppa Pig and her friends on an out-of-this-world adventure for families with young children. With hands-on play, storytelling, and gentle surprises throughout. Designed for preschoolers and toddlers, everyone welcome. Tickets online. Under 2’s go FREE. peppapigspaceadventure.co.uk Nick Cope’s Family Show Warwick Arts Centre, Coventry 8 Nov Don’t Miss CBeebies Nick Cope’s new, delightful family show featuring his totally unique and beautiful songs for children, performed live with stunning animations. Recommended age 3+. warwickartscentre.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk
WHAT’S ON
Theatre Get Active
Belgrade Theatre Coventry
Adventure Golf Stonebridge 18 holes of outdoor adventure golf with unique obstacles like waterfalls and sand traps and woodland friends who may help (or hinder) you! Open 09:00 – 21:00 daily. Party packages available. Fun for all the family! stonebridgeadventuregolf.co.uk
Private Peaceful Tue 13 – Sat 17 Oct Age recommendation: 9+ The Mystery of The Belgrade Theatre Thu 29 – Sat 31 Oct Age recommendation: 7+ The Nutcracker Tue 3 Oct belgrade.co.uk
The Albany Theatre Coventry The Groovy UV Show Sun 12 Sep The Animal Guyz Sat 3 Oct Ballet Theatre UK: The Snow Queen Tue 6 Oct Age recommendation: 3+
Royal Shakespeare Company Stratford-upon-Avon
Ministry of Science Live Sun 25 Oct Age recommendation: 6+
The Three Musketeers Sat 28 Nov – Sat 9 Jan 2027 rsc.org.uk
albanytheatre.co.uk
The Benn Hall Rugby Trick & Treat Circus Live Tue 27 Oct K-Pop Icons Fri 30 Oct uk.patronbase.com/_BennHall
Warwick Arts Centre Coventry Royal Spa Centre Leamington Spa Ballet Theatre UK: The Snow Queen Sun 11 Oct Age recommendation: 3+ K-Pop Dance Heroes Sat 7 Nov There’s a Monster in Your Show Thu 12 Nov royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk
Natural History Museum presents Dinosaurs Live! Sun 11 Oct Age recommendation: 3+ Michael Rosen: Nice! Sun 25 Oct Toto the Ninja Cat and the Great Snake Escape Sat 31 Oct & Sun 1 Nov Age recommendation: 5+
Adventure Zone/Strikes Social Rugby Soft Play centre for children aged 0-12. Plus 10 pin bowling, darts, crazy golf, pool tables and shuffleboards in Strikes Bar. Fun for all the family! theadventurezone.co.uk AirHop Adventure & Trampoline Park Warwick Indoor slide park and interactive football and sports pitch plus the super popular Wipeout and of course a sea of trampolines. Plus, the bounciest parties in town! The ultimate play experience for all ages. airhop.co.uk Gilly’s Disc Golf Wayfield Gorse, Stratford-upon-Avon Challenge your family to a game of disc golf! Scenic, woodland courses for beginners, intermediate and advanced players. Fun for all ages, no experience necessary. Open all year round. gillysdiscgolf.co.uk Go Ape Coventry The best of high rope antics, axe throwing and mini-Land Rovers at Coombe Abbey for thrill-seeking adults and fun-seeking children. goape.co.uk
DON’T MISS!
Junior Parkrun Stratford-upon-Avon, Leamington, Rugby & Coventry A FREE, fun and friendly weekly 2K event for juniors (4-14 years old). Every Sunday at 9:00. Children must be able to complete the course without an adult. parkrun.com Mr Karting Warwick Junior & Family Arrive and Drive Karting plus Children’s Karting parties. Perfect for competitive kids aged 8+ (and their grown-ups!) Open 7 days a week. mrkarting.co.uk Planet Ice Coventry Skate for fun, learn to skate, book a party or take the family to watch an Ice Hockey game and support the Coventry Blaze this autumn. See website for fixtures and booking. planet-ice.co.uk coventryblaze.co.uk Spot On Wake Henley-in-Arden The Ultimate watersports destination! With 3 custom designed lakes, try wakeboarding, SUP (6+) or the Aqua Jungle (8+). spotonwake.co.uk The Wave Coventry Grab your goggles and enjoy a family day out at one of the UK’s award-winning indoor water parks in the heart of Coventry City Centre! thewavecoventry.com
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bp pulse LIVE (NEC) 28 Oct – 8 Nov Disney On Ice is returning to Birmingham with a brand-new magical adventure Discover The Magic. Bringing beloved characters to life through cutting edge figure-skating, eye-catching costumes and stunning set designs. Audiences can expect jawdropping stunts, iconic songs, and appearances from Toy Story, Moana, Coco, Frozen, Aladdin and more! Bring the whole family together this winter for a magical journey through your favourite Disney movies - on ice! For more information and to book tickets, visit www.disneyonice.co.uk editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk Families Warwickshire 9
WHAT’S ON
October Half-Term & Halloween
Hatton Adventure World Nr Warwick Weekends in October & 26 Oct – 1 Nov Halloween Spooktacular Get ready for a day of fang-tastic fun and all NEW ghoulish delights, including the Fluorescent Frights UV Trail, a brand NEW Spooky Show, the mischievous Witches of Hatton and a frightfully fun Monster Mash Disco! The ultimate Halloween day out for families. hattonworld.com
October Half-Term Stratford Butterfly Farm 24 Oct – 1 Nov During the half-term holiday, Butterfly Lifecycle and Meet the Mini-Beast demonstrations will take place daily at 11am in the Discovery Zone with the Butterfly Farm’s friendly and informative team of experts. butterflyfarm.co.uk
Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve Coventry Great for scenic pools, reedbeds, grassland and woodland or a spot of birdwatching. With regular Nature Tots sessions for pre-school children, Wildlife Watch after school clubs, plus activity sessions during school holidays. warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk
October Half-Term Events Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve, Coventry There’s plenty to keep the little one’s entertained this half-term: Hibernating Hedgehogs (4+) 26 Oct (10:00 – 11:00) Halloween in the Woods (4+) 26 Oct (11:15-12:15) Creepy Crawly Bug Hunt (4+) 28 Oct (10:00 – 11:00) Campfire Fun and Hot Chocolate with toffee apples 28 Oct (11:15-12:15) For Primary School aged children, book online. warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk
Compton Verney Nr Warwick Stunning parkland and lake, and woodland adventure playground. Award-winning art gallery, restaurant and gift shop. Family activities. Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays. comptonverney.org.uk
Halloween Half-Term Kenilworth Castle 4 Oct – 1 Nov (10:00 – 16:00) Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out this halfterm. Join the Great Pumpkin Party with family activities and entertainment. Interactive storytelling, spooky games, devilish disco fun, themed trails and seasonal selfie spots. Dress up for the occasion and you might win a prize! Book in advance and save 15%. english-heritage.org.uk Blazing Halloween Drayton Manor, Tamworth 10, 11, 17, 18 & 24 Oct – 1 Nov A frightfully fun family event packed with spooky surprises, thrilling rides, mischievous Halloween characters and an all-new Trick or Treat Trail where little monsters can collect sweet treats from themed locations across the park. Brave guests can climb aboard the Revenge of the Haunted Express and everyone can enjoy the end-of-day lake show before the night ignites with dazzling fireworks on selected dates. draytonmanor.co.uk Mini Foresters Does Halloween! Heart of England Forest 24 Oct (13:00 – 15:00) Dive into autumn magic with creepy cute nature crafts, a thrilling scavenger hunt and mysterious forest discoveries. Gather around the campfire for delicious Halloween S’mores and enjoy a ghostly tale beneath the trees. Enchanting woodland family session for a wonderfully wild Halloween. heartofenglandforest.org Halloween Makers Markets Fargo Village, Coventry 24 & 25 Oct (Sat 11:00 – 17:00, Sun 11:00 -16:00) Spellbinding stalls, spooky vibes and treats around every corner. Shop, eat, explore and enjoy family-friendly Halloween experiences and creative workshops alongside the market. fargovillage.co.uk The Cursed Guildhall St. Mary’s Guildhall, Coventry 24, 25, 29, 30 & 31 Oct Spooky fun for all. Younger visitors can enjoy a Plague themed family trail, join in Halloween crafts, create potions and spells, as well as interactive gaming kiosks and themed costumes. Older visitors can brave the Plague Doctor (15 minute interaction). stmarysguildhall.co.uk
Outdoor Fun
Coombe Abbey Country Park Coventry With 500 acres of beautiful gardens, woodland, lakeside walks, and bird hides, there’s plenty to explore. With great outdoor play areas, a café and a variety of activities from pottery to pond dipping, plus regular events in the park and at the Hotel, it’s a great place for a family trip, a scenic stroll or a bike ride. coombeabbey.com Country Parks Warwickshire Warwickshire Country Parks offer a diverse portfolio of green spaces with five country parks and three greenways covering over 1,200 acres for families to enjoy. Enjoy an autumn walk, a bike ride or make a day of it with family and friends. countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk
Minecraft Zombie Survival Touchwood, Solihull 26 – 30 Oct (from 10:00) Step into a custom Minecraft world built around Touchwood and Solihull High Street. Work together with other players in the group to survive the zombies on a private server. Gather resources, explore, build and take part in a big Mob Battle! 50 min sessions. 12 players per game. £5 per child. Age 7+. eventsattouchwood.co.uk
Draycote Water Rugby Whether you’re looking for walks, cycling, birdwatching, water sports, fishing or a great children’s outdoor play area, there’s everything you need for a great day out for the whole family. Draycote Water is a 240-hectare reservoir and country park open from 7:30 – 16:30 daily with a cafe and onsite parking. stwater.co.uk/our-visitorsites/draycote-water
Halloween Celebrations Rugby Town Centre 30 & 31 Oct Get ready for frightful fun! Spooky Halloween celebrations, seasonal activities, festive decorations and plenty of Halloween fun for the whole family. therugbytown.co.uk
10 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk
Heart of England Forest Warwickshire A beautiful part of the world, rich in history and legends, rolling green countryside, rivers, and busy market tow. Covering 7,000 acres with 58 miles of public and permissive footpaths – an adventure in the forest awaits your family! heartofenglandforest.org Hill Close Gardens Warwick Rare Victorian Gardens to explore with Children’s trail and special events and workshops throughout the year. Plus, special children’s garden with mud kitchen where kids can plant, water, weed and harvest fruit and vegetables, so go prepared to get stuck in! Open Tue – Sun 11:00 – 16:00. Monthly drop-in sessions for toddlers, pre-school children and their parents/carers. Annual Apple Weekend & Country Fair 10 & 11 Oct hillclosegardens.com National Trust Warwickshire Get outdoors with the family and explore this autumn at our local National Trust properties: Baddesley Clinton; Coughton Court; Packwood House; Charlecote Park; Upton House and Gardens; Farnborough te a Hall; Kinwarton Dovecote and Coventry Charterhouse.. See individual websites for half-term activities and prices. nationaltrust.org.uk
Pumpkins
Family Halloween Show Compton Verney 28 Oct – 1 Nov Experience a show that celebrates the magic of the natural world with live music, song and playful participation. £15 pp plus admission. comptonverney.org.uk St John’s Haunted House Warwick 29 - 31 Oct Step into a spook-tacular adventure this Halloween with a magical mix of thrills, interactive storytelling, problem solving and creative (and messy!) hands-on fun. Familyfriendly trail based on Sleeping Beauty. Dress up for adults and children is welcomed. Spaces limited, book early. warwickshire.gov.uk /heritageboxoffice
Foundry Wood Leamington Spa An urban community woodland in the heart of Leamington Spa and Warwick. Learn about woodland habitats, wildlife conservation, traditional woodland crafts and more. Regular events for families and wellbeing events for adults throughout the year. Monthly Pizza Making on the last Sunday of each month. foundrywood.co.uk
Here’s our favourite local places to pick your own pumpkins or lovely farm shops to buy them. Cobbs at The Farm Stratford-upon-Avon cobbsfarmshops.co.uk Hilltop Farm Leamington hilltopfarmshop.com Lower Clopton Farm Shop Stratford-upon-Avon lowerclopton.co.uk Malt Kiln Farm Rugby maltkilnfarmshop.co.uk
Pumpkins R Us Dallas Burston Polo Club, Southam halloweenpumpkins.co.uk The Barn at Berryfields Meriden thebarnatberryfields.co.uk The Pumpkin Place Wolston, Coventry facebook.com /thepumpkinplacewolston
See websites for details. Booking may be required. familiesonline.co.uk
EARLY YEARS
Little Lodge's Discovery At Little Lodge Nursery, every month brings a new Discovery - a theme the nursery chooses to spark discovery and then fills with activities for the children to explore. It's the heartbeat of what they do: they want every child to leave with a genuine love of discovering the world around them. The August Discovery was Summer Fun and Minibeasts and the minibeasts, in particular, captured everyone – a universal theme that can be explored throughout the seasons. Across the nursery's four rooms - Little Lodgers, Little Learners, Little Adventurers and Little Explorers - that theme came to life in different ways for different ages. There were bug hunts in the garden, children creating their very own bug houses, close looks at snails and worms and beetles and endless questions about where they live and what they do. As the season turns, there is no shortage of minibeasts still to find: under logs, among the fallen leaves and in every damp corner of the garden. Little Lodge love watching how each child takes the same theme somewhere different. One will count the legs on a spider with great concentration. Another will simply delight in following a worm's slow progress across the soil. Both are learning. Both are discovering. The nursery plans the Discovery, but the children lead the exploring. They create the invitation to discovery; the children decide what captures them. Along the way they observe,
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predict, question and try again, building not just knowledge but something the nursery values even more: confidence and self-belief. A child whose curiosity is welcomed becomes one who asks more, tries more and trusts themselves more. That growing self-belief, alongside a real love of finding things out, is what they hope every child carries with them long after they leave. Little Lodge Nursery is proud to be part of the Arnold Lodge family in Leamington Spa and prouder still of the small, brilliant children who fill their rooms each day - exploring, wondering and reminding them that a garden full of minibeasts is astonishing when you're small enough to really look. For September the theme is ‘All About Me and Belonging’. Little Lodge Nursery is an independent 0-4 years nursery, based on Binswood Avenue in Leamington Spa. Tel: 01926 886003 Email: admissions@thelittlelodgenursery.com
Little Lodge offers a high quality early years education in the heart of Leamington Spa for children aged 6 months - 4 years. Set within Arnold Lodge School 0MXXPI 0SHKI GLMPHVIR FIRIǖX JVSQ XLI highest quality of care and education from our dedicated nursery team who support each child’s development in a home from home setting. We are registered with Warwickshire County Council to provide Early Years Funding for eligible 9 months to 4 year olds.
FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.THELITTLELODGENURSERY.COM thelittlelodgenursery
01926 778050
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15-17 Kenilworth Road, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 5TW
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BACK TO SCHOOL
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. e. 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
Independent & Selective Schools Coventry & Warwickshire Arnold Lodge Leamington Spa (Ages 4-18) arnoldlodge.com Open Day: Sat 26 Sep 10:00 – 13:00
Crescent School Rugby crescentschool.co.uk Reception & Year 3 Open Evening: Tue 29 Sep 18:00 - 19:00
Bilton Grange Rugby (Ages 3-13) biltongrange.co.uk Open Day: Sat 3 Oct
King Henry VIII Pre-Prep Coventry kinghenrys.co.uk
The Kingsley School Leamington Spa (Ages 3-18) thekingsleyschool.co.uk Senior School Open Afternoon: Mon 21 Sep 14:00 – 18:00
Prep and Junior Schools Bablake Pre Prep Coventry bablake.com Bablake Junior Coventry bablake.com Open Day: Sat 26 Sep 09:00 – 12:00 Crackley Hall School and Little Crackers Nursery Kenilworth crackleyhall.co.uk Nursery, Reception & Year 3 Open Evening: Thu 24 Sep 18:00 - 20:00
King Henry VIII Junior Coventry kinghenrys.co.uk Stratford Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon stratfordprep.co.uk The Croft Preparatory School Stratford-upon-Avon croftschool.co.uk Open Morning: Tue 13 Oct 10:00 – 12:00 Warwick Junior School Warwick warwickschool.org Open Morning: Sat 26 Sep 09:45 – 12:00 Warwick Preparatory School Warwick warwickprep.com Open Day: Sat 19 Sep 09:30 – 12:15
12 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk
Senior Schools Bablake Senior Coventry bablake.com Open Day: Sat 26 Sep 09:00 – 12:00 King Henry VIII Senior Coventry kinghenrys.co.uk King’s High Warwick kingshighwarwick.co.uk Princethorpe College Rugby princethorpe.co.uk Open Afternoon: Sun 13 Sep 14:00 – 17:00 Rugby School Rugby rugbyschool.co.uk 13+ Boarding Open Day: Sat 3 Oct 13+ Day Open Day: Tue 13 Oct (16:00 – 18:00) 16+ Open Day: Sat 12 Sep Warwick Senior School Warwick warwickschool.org Open Morning: Sat 26 Sep 09:45 – 12:00
Grammar Schools King Edward VI School Stratford-upon-Avon Boys only kes.net Stratford Girls Grammar School Stratford-upon-Avon Girls only sggs.org.uk Alcester Grammar School Alcester Co-Ed alcestergs.co.uk Lawrence Sheriff School Rugby Boys only lawrencesheriffschool.net Rugby High School Rugby Girls only rugbyhighschool.co.uk Ashlawn School Rugby Co-Ed ashlawn.org.uk
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admissions@stratfordprep.co.uk
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Church House, Old Town, Stratford-Upon-Avon, CV37 6BG
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Crescent School An independent school for 4-11 year olds
A Princethorpe Foundation School
Registered Charity Number 1087124.
01789 297993
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BACK TO SCHOOL
What to expect from the first weeks of term By Erin Miller The first few weeks of the September term are often a bigger adjustment both for children and parents than they expect. Whether it is your child’s very first day at school, they are returning to school or they are beginning a new key stage, it helps to know what to expect during those early weeks. After the long summer holidays, some children are excited to return, while others may feel nervous, emotional or unsettled by the change in routine. While all of these reactions are completely normal, preparedness always helps. Expect a lot of communication If your child’s school is new to you, one of the most useful things you can do early on is familiarise yourself with how the school communicates with parents; whether through ParentMail, school apps, ClassDojo or email newsletters. The first few weeks usually involve lots of practical information about routines, homework, PE days, reading, clubs and trips. It can feel overwhelming at first but families and schools usually quickly settle into a rhythm. If you are unsure about something, don’t worry in silence, reach out to the school and ask; it’s likely other parents will be wondering the same thing! Expect routines and behaviour expectations to be prioritised over academics At the start of the school year, teachers often focus heavily on routines, relationships and behaviour expectations before moving fully into academic work. Children spend time practising everyday routines such as lining up, organising belongings, moving around the classroom and working with others.
You may also hear lots about class rules, rewards or school values during these first weeks, as teachers establish expectations for the year ahead. For younger children especially, schools also prioritise emotional wellbeing and helping children settle socially through activities such as circle time, PSHE and team-building tasks. So don’t worry if your child hasn’t actually mentioned what they are learning in the first week or so. Expect baseline assessments and early observations The first few weeks are also a time when teachers assess where children are academically after the summer break. There is often a dip in academic attainment, which is completely normal. Schools often carry out baseline assessments, reading checks, phonics activities or short maths tasks to identify strengths, gaps in learning and any children who may need additional support. For Reception children, this includes the statutory Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA), completed within the first six weeks of school. These assessments are informal and not something children need to prepare for. Erin Miller is a teacher with a keen interest in how research can be used in the classroom to improve learning.
GIVEAWAY
Ages 3+
Ultimate Stitch Interactive Plush Toy Prepare for your child to be overwhelmed Many parents are surprised by how emotionally tiring the return to school can be for children. Even those who seem settled may come home exhausted, emotional, irritable or unusually quiet during the first few weeks. One reason for this is often referred to as ‘after-school restraint collapse,’ where children spend the school day managing routines, expectations and social interactions before releasing those emotions once they are back in the safety of home. You may also notice inconsistency; one day your child may seem happy and confident, while the next they suddenly dislike school, their teacher or their classmates. This is usually a normal part of adjustment rather than a sign that something is wrong. Most children need time to settle into new routines and expectations, so patience, reassurance and consistent routines at home can make a big difference. Prioritising good sleep routines and calm evenings can help, as tiredness often amplifies emotional reactions. Avoid too many extracurricular activities initially until your child is settled. 14 Families Warwickshire editor@familieswarwickshire.co.uk
Discover the outof-this-world personality of Disney’s Ultimate Looking at the longer Stitch
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You might already be thinking ahead but don’t expect and motion detailed information about combinations – these assessments during the first few weeks of term. Apart from the Reception Baseline from cute and Assessment (RBA), most statutory assessments take place later in the silly toschool alienyear and schools will usually provide parents with more information closer to the time.
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As well as the Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA), depending on your child’s year group, they may complete Press his features for sneezing, other statutory assessments, including the Phonics Screening giggling, munching, dancing Worth Check (Year 1), the Multiplication Tables Check (Year 4) and and singing Key Stage 2 SATs (Year 6). £80
eachtake If you would like to learn more about when assessments place and what they involve, GOV.UK provides guidance on 2 available primary assessments and key assessment dates. While it is natural to look ahead, there is no need to worry about these assessments. For now, the focus should be on Use QR code or apply settling into the new school year. at
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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 be delicious AND nutritious? Certainly - here’s how! Fresh fillings in sandwiches
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 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. For a sweet treat, add a piece of seasonal fruit
Swap white bread for wholegrain or sourdough
Fruit is nature’s dessert. Regularly rotating one or two pieces exposes your child to a range of flavours. Seasonal fruit is usually cheaper too, so beyond the banana or apple standbys, try a pear, satsumas, apricots or berries. Variety is the spice of life!
Plain white bread is low in nutrients and digests quickly, leaving children hungry before the afternoon is over. Wholegrain and sourdough breads are far more nutritious and release energy slowly. It’s a simple swap that makes a real difference.
Pack an after-school snack The school day doesn’t end at lunch. An extra snack for home time satisfies afterschool hunger. Good options include a small handful of nuts or seeds (if the school allows), a cereal bar, rice cakes or a piece of fruit. A little goes a long way.
Keep it simple: add a flask of water
Choose hot over cold 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.
Samantha Gnimavo is owner of Happy Body (www.happy-body.co.uk), a women’s health and fertility nutritionist and NHSaccredited health coach.
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.
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 fiber into any lunchbox or after-school snack. Children who help prepare their food are also more likely to eat it.
*www.bit.ly/foodfoundationkids
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