IN THIS ISSUE
Parties Clubs & Classes Education News Christmas Guide Q&A with Author Jacqueline Wilson Issue 3 November/December 2018
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Editor’s Welcome It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, so we have the festive season all wrapped up for you in this bumper Christmas issue. Plus, read our exclusive celebrity interviews with children’s author, Jacqueline Wilson and singer Carrie Grant about her great work with anti-bullying charities. If you have anything you’d like to share with our readers – whether news, events or promote your business- please do get in touch with me. Plus, don’t forget to like us on Facebook for up-to-date information, competitions and more.
Phaser Fun
Merry Christmas!
Editor
In This Issue 3 4 5 6 7
News & Views Jacqueline Wilson Q&A Education News Carrie Grant Interview Clubs & Classes
8 It’s Party Time 9 Christmas Toy Gift Guide 10 Family Christmas Guide 13 Where’s Santa? 14 What’s On
Find Families Dorset Magazine on: @FamiliesDorsetMag @FamDorsetMag Managing Editor - Keren Moseley editor@familiesdorset.co.uk 07518 514012 Advertising - Claire Clarricoates Claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk 07812 218331 Design - Matthew Craig mattcraigdesign.co.uk
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Distribution We distribute throughout Dorset including Bournemouth, Blandford Forum, Broadstone, Bridport, Christchurch, Dorchester, Ferndown, New Milton, Poole, Ringwood, Swanage, Verwood, Wareham, Wimborne and more.
Jan/Feb 2019 Education, Early Years, Clubs & Classes, New Year, New You! + more.
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© Families Dorset Magazine November/December 2018. Families Dorset is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Dorset are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Dorset. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Dorset, its distributors, the franchise company, Families Print Ltd, and LCMB Ltd cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof.
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our parties when booked by 31/12/2018* with this voucher
* New party bookings only. Excludes parties on Saturdays – call 01202 711570 to book please mention FAMMAG18 when booking and present voucher on party day on arrival. Party must be taken by 31/12/2019. No voucher photocopies. Please note usual terms and conditions apply including £40.00 deposit required.
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Talking to Young Children about War this Remembrance Day Remembrance Day this year will be especially significant as it will mark 100 years since the original agreement to end fighting during the First World War in 1918, also known as Armistice Day.
produced a short animation, simply titled ‘Poppies’ to help convey the notion of remembrance in a way that resonates with a young audience.
Accordingly, you can expect that there will be a great deal of media coverage given to this significant commemoration and your child may be prompted to ask you questions.
It is a really beautiful piece to watch and would be a great way to introduce any discussion of Remembrance Day. The 2-minute film follows a bunny who starts off playing in a meadow, which then becomes a WW1 battlefield.
Discussing war with children can be quite difficult. Recognising this, CBeebies has
The film can be viewed on the CBeebies website at www.bbc.co.uk/cbeebies
A Daily Mile Improves Children’s Health An initiative to get schoolchildren to walk or run a mile every day leads to significant improvements in their health, according to a recent study. The Daily Mile scheme was originally the brainchild of a Scottish head teacher who started it in 2012. Researchers at Stirling University compared the health of children at a primary school taking part in the scheme with those at a school that wasn’t participating, by recording how much moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) they were undertaking every day, and for how long they were sedentary. Those doing the Daily Mile were significantly healthier than those who were not. More than 3,600 schools worldwide have introduced the initiative, including about 1,200 in England and over 1000 across the rest of the UK. More info at www.stir.ac.uk and www.thedailymile.co.uk
Home Start Seeking New Volunteers Local parenting support charity, Home Start West Dorset, is seeking new local volunteers in the west Dorset area. The charity offers friendship, advice and practical support to families who live in west Dorset, Weymouth and Portland. It helps parents of children aged under 5, who may
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be struggling with post-natal depression, isolation, physical health problems, bereavement and many other issues. These families receive support of a volunteer for couple of hours a week, which provide a lifeline in a particularly difficult time. Training is provided, so if you’re an experienced parent who can spare 2-3 hours a week to help other parents in need contact Home Start on 01305 265072 or visit www.homestartwestdorset.com
Go Green with Sustainable Real Christmas Trees Support sustainable forestry and make choosing your Christmas tree a family affair at Moors Valley. There’s plenty of quality Christmas Trees all grown in Britain, ranging from 4 to 8 feet, including the traditional Norway Spruce with its wonderful scent along with the non-needledrop Nordman Fir variety. Potted trees, wreaths, holly and mistletoe sprays and tree stands will also be available, all subject to availability. Cut trees start from around £25 and there’s free parking when you buy a tree. Trees go on sale from 10am to 4pm, Friday 30 November while stocks last.
Beat Head Lice and Nits with the Bug Buster Kit If your children have had head lice before, then you may have been put off using expensive neuro-toxic pesticides on their heads. Bug Busting is a head louse detection and eradication method, which works by combining specially designed bevel-edged combs with your own family shampoo and conditioner. The Bug Busting method detects & clears lice completely without special treatments, removes lice systematically, breaking the life-cycle in four sessions spaced over two weeks and eliminates unsightly eggshells comfortably. The Bug Buster Kit is NHS approved and safe for babies, children, pregnant women, nursing mothers and those with allergies. It costs £6.40 plus P&P but is reusable – only one kit is required per family. To order a kit or for further information and advice, visit www.chc.org or call 01908 561928.
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Dame Jacqueline Wilson is arguably Britain’s favourite contemporary children’s author. She has over one hundred published books to her name, most of which deal with the often troubling and unvarnished realities of being a real-life child or parent.
First published in 1991, Tracy Beaker quickly became Jacqueline’s most well-known character. Now, over a decade after her last literary appearance, the fiery, former foster-kid is back in new book My Mum Tracy Beaker, and while she’s now mature and mother to Jess, she’s still the same Tracy readers know and love. Families Magazine is lucky enough to have secured an exclusive interview with Dame Jacqueline Wilson in which our readers and their children ask her some of their most burning questions about her new book and her life as a writer.
Why do you think Tracy is one of your most popular characters? Harbinder, age 7, Croydon I think because she's naughty! She has reason for her bad behaviour, of course, and she's naughty but she's not spiteful, she's funny. I think she's a character that children would like as a friend - I'm not sure about adults, I think a little of her as a child goes a long way!
How have you made the grown-up Tracy as appealing to children as Tracy, the child? Lily’s mum, Leeds I’ve kept her, not exactly naughty, but mischievous. She's quite surprising - she might suddenly do something a bit mad, or a bit silly. I think being a mum has slightly changed her because she's a very loving, caring mum.
Is Tracy’s daughter the same or different to Tracy? Olivia, age 8, Aylesbury They certainly look alike, but Jess is a quieter girl, partly because she has had a much easier, more loving, caring upbringing than Tracy herself had. Jess is probably more studious, and more of a bookworm, but when push comes to shove Jess can certainly stand up for herself too.
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Did you and your illustrator, Nick Sharratt, disagree at all about how Tracy and her daughter should be drawn? Rosie, age 9, Twickenham I mostly leave it to him, and certainly I think he has done Jess wonderfully. He suggested that Jess might wear glasses, which I thought was a very clever touch because it gives them that little bit of difference, and also Jess is a total bookworm and it just looks right for her to be wearing her little glasses. I was very pleased with that addition.
What’s been the highlight for you of being the Children’s Laureate? Emma’s mum, Portsmouth It gave me a chance to speak to lots of children and teachers and librarians, and the particular thing I wanted to promote was reading aloud to children. Because right from when they are one year old, any child likes to sit on a lap and hear the simplest of stories, and I also suggested that even when your child has learned to read, sometimes it’s fun to read aloud a book that they might not necessarily tackle themselves because it's a bit difficult to get into, or the vocabulary is quite hard, but they would love to listen to the story. If they are doing colouring, or building something, or just petting the dog or whatever, or at bedtime, children do still like to be read to aloud.
Your books depict real children’s real lives and challenges in a way that few others do – how do you get inside the heads of your characters?
What advice would you give to aspiring writers, young or old? Amaya’s mum, Harrow I always suggest aspiring writers read lots to enrich their imagination and increase their vocabulary and try and get into a regular writing habit. Maybe keep a diary - just so you learn to write even when you don't feel like it!
When did you first become a writer? Emily, age 10, Sevenoaks Well, by the time I was fifteen I had written what was - at least in length - a full book. It wasn't very good though! It was about two sisters, Margot was about fifteen, the narrator, and the sister was about eighteen. They had a car and went on a drive through France and Spain and got boyfriends! It wasn't the most inspiring work!
How do you select names for your characters? Chatterbook Group, Ringwood Library, Dorset I like to try and have slightly unusual names, and if they are pertinent to the story that pleases me - for my identical twins in my book Double Act, I had them called Ruby and Garnet because they are both red jewel stones. For The Illustrated Mum, the mother Marigold has a great passion for tattoos and has called her girls the rather outlandish names of Star and Dolphin, simply because they are very popular tattoo icons. With Tracy I wanted a quirky, bouncy modern name - and with Hetty Feather, Hetty is an old-fashioned name and Feather because she's light as a feather!
Lizzie’s mum, Glasgow Bizarrely, I can remember very vividly what it is like to be a child. I mean, ask me what happened or how I felt about something a couple of years ago and my mind is a complete blank, but ask me what I was worried about when I was nine, say, and I remember entirely. It's just a happy trick of nature that I can take myself back.
OUT NOW My Mum Tracy Beaker by Dame Jacqueline Wilson, published by Doubleday
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Eight lucky pupils at Wimborne First School have been chosen to pay the first visit to their school’s hotly anticipated new site. The new site is currently under construction and is set to open in September 2019.
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Wimborne First School will moving as a two-form entry school with the capacity to increase to three form entry when required. The school will have state of the art ICT facilities, a practical room, a large hall and studio and is planning to offer wrap around care for local families.
irst Wimborne F Site School New Takes Shape
Outdoor space is an important feature at the new site. Wimborne First School is in the process of raising funds to build a pond and relocate its wellies and waterproof area so the children can benefit from these experiences at the new location. They also plan to add a small allotment, orchard and raised beds to the grounds so the children can learn how to grow vegetables and cook with them in their practical classroom.
Children Get the Best Start in Life at Moyles Court At Moyles Court, we believe that being confident, happy and stimulated leads to a successful academic experience. Small class sizes, individualised learning, great teaching, extensive after school provision, tailored transport and excellent pastoral care provide your children with the best possible start in life. Moyles Court is a smaller independent school with pupils aged 3 to 16 years. Come and absorb and see what wonderful work happens here every day by visiting on an Open Morning or arranging an individual visit.
oPeN day SAturdAy 2nd mArch 10Am-12.30Pm
Richard Milner Smith, Headmaster says, “Our core values are at the heart of our fabulous school, and every child benefits. We offer individualised learning, a flexible approach to travel and wrap around care – making us accessible to so many families who want their children to be happy, learning and achieving in our glorious New Forest setting.”
School Open Days Clayesmore School, Iwerne Minster Sat 2 March 2019, 10.30–12pm www.clayesmore.com
Moyles Court School, Ringwood Sat 2 March 2019, 10am–12.30pm www.moylescourt.co.uk
Sherborne School, Sherborne Sat 8 December & Sat 9 February 10.30am–1.30pm www.sherborne.org
St Mary’s School, Shaftesbury Fri 9 Nov 2018 & Fri 15 March 2019 www.stmarys.eu
Sunninghill Prep School, Dorchester Fri 8 February 2019, 9.30am–12pm www.sunninghillprep.co.uk
Open Day Sat 2 March 10am-12.30pm
Come and join us at our Open Morning on Saturday 2nd March from 10am - 12.30pm. Visit www.moylescourt.co.uk or call 01425 472856 for details.
We g r oW a n d n u t u r e in t ellig en ce t hr ou g h s p ir it, im a g in a t ion , id ea s a n d d es ir e. We g et t he bes t ou t of p u p ils in a s u p p or t ive, colou r fu l a n d ca r in g a t m os p h e re W her e in t ellig en ce em er g es n a t u r a lly.
Moyles Court sChool – a strong sense of plaCe
3 - 16 Co-eduCational, day & boarding Proven AcAdemic SucceSS - ScholArShiPS AvAilAble moyleS court, ringwood, hAmPShire, bh24 3nF. e: inFo@moyleScourt.co.uk t: 01425 472 856 www.moylescourt.co.uk
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.. Spotlight On
Carrie Grant Carrie Grant and her husband, David, first came to the attention of the nation as Fame Academy judges. Since then, Carrie has become a familiar face on our TV screens. What you may not know it that she is also a formidable supporter of charities. Claire Winter caught up with her to talk about family life and her charity work.
What initially inspired you to become a singer and then a coach? Like many creative children, singing and dancing was all I ever wanted to do from the youngest age. I actually think it got me through my childhood. Back in 1993, David (my husband) and I were regularly booking vocal sections and choirs for bands. One day when we were working with Take That on Pray, they asked us if we could coach them. We had never coached before, and we were more keen on singing, but once we began, we realised we loved it. It gave us access into people’s lives that meant we were mentoring as much as coaching and that is something we still love to do.
You are a supporter of The Diana Award’s Anti-Bullying Ambassadors Programme. Why did you decide to support it? I have spent most of my life feeling like I’m somehow on the outside. I think it was growing up being the child of a single parent during a time when that was really rare. I was made to feel ashamed, and that shame is something I would never want any child to feel. The Diana Award has the best strategies; they empower the children and young people to work with one another, they create a real coolness around being kind, and of course, they have the support of the Princes behind them. Who wouldn’t want to support that!
It’s Anti-Bullying Week in November, what do you think parents and kids can do to prevent bullying?
Are you working on any new projects? I have just received an Honorary Doctorate of Arts for my services to charity from the University of Bedfordshire and I am hoping this will open up even more doors for the campaigning work I do within the NHS for patients and within the SEND arena. Workwise, I am a regular reporter for The One Show, and I also present for Radio London, Nurture TV, and Vintage TV.
We have to stop “othering” people. Difference is not to be despised; it is a beautiful thing. The problem we have right now is that adult society is in a perpetual state of “othering,” so the wrong messages gets put onto our children. Learn about difference in others and speak well of people in front of your children.
You and your husband have talked openly about having children with complex needs. What is your advice to parents whose children may have autism, ADHD or who are adopted and face challenges? Once you’ve got through the first period of adjustment, a parental mindset change has to happen. We can keep despairing that our children have challenges or we can learn to look at them through a new lens, one which doesn’t define them by their challenges or issues, but finds beauty and magic and a whole host of other advantages and qualities to love and cherish.
How do you and your husband work around the demands of family life? We try to job-share our time as much as possible so that one of us is always at home. We have had to become super-parents and work out what is necessary for each child, and we have learned to parent in four different ways. It’s exhausting but also unbelievably rewarding. We are also working hard to change the world’s perception of autism, ADHD, and adoption so that the world might be a better place when they grow up. This is another way in which I feel The Diana Award is a perfect fit for the vision we have.
If you could give our readers one bit of advice, what would it be? For all SEN parents - you are more powerful than you realise. If you feel isolated and as if your voice isn’t heard, join with others….because there will be a tipping point and change will come. And for all families, the biggest message I could give is, “YOU ARE ENOUGH.”
The Diana Award is a charity legacy to Diana, Princess of Wales’ belief that young people have the power to change the world. The charity runs the leading Anti-Bullying Programme in the UK and Ireland, giving young people the skills, confidence, and training to tackle all forms of bullying as Anti-Bullying Ambassadors. Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke of Cambridge and The Duke of Sussex, support the organisation. Find out more about the charity and its anti-bullying events in November at www.antibullyingpro.com
Odd Socks Day for Anti-Bullying Week Anti-Bullying Week runs from 12 to 16 November and the theme this year is choosing respect over bullying. The aim of the week is to support schools to help children understand: • The definition of respect • That bullying is a behavioural choice • That we can respectfully disagree with each other i.e.
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we don’t have to be best friends or always agree with each other but we do have to show each other respect • That we all need to choose to respect each other, both face-to-face and online Students are being encouraged to wear odd socks to school on Monday 12 November to show their support and raise money for a good cause. To get involved, visit www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk
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Come & join our crew! Book a free trial today
The Benefits of After School Clubs and Classes
helen o’grady drama academy
Fun packed drama classes specialising in developing confidence and communication skills.
For children aged 2-18 years
Whether or not you think you may be raising the next Picasso or David Beckham, there’s no doubting the pluses of after school clubs. While finances may not permit your little ones being involved in different activities every night of the week, there’s no doubt that a couple of well-chosen clubs can be great for giving your child an insight into areas that the school curriculum doesn’t cover.
Dorset office: 023 8027 5849 - 07341 947883 dorset@helenogrady.co.uk www.helenogrady.co.uk
So, why are clubs so important? Team sports like football, rugby, and netball are not only brilliant for keeping kids active but also helping them learn team work where they can begin to appreciate what’s good for the whole team, rather than just thinking of themselves. Competitive sports are also great for learning difficult life lessons like being a gracious winner - and loser. Meanwhile, learning a musical instrument is ideal for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence.
Self-Development Drama Classes across Dorset
The list is endless. There are clubs for almost anything you can imagine. However, new skills, team work and confidence building aside, the most important thing to think about when deciding which club to choose is the fun factor.
The Helen O’Grady Drama Academy offers a self-development drama programme for children. This is designed to encourage enthusiasm, energy and a positive approach to life, ongoing confidence and self-esteem, verbal communication skills and effective social interaction.
Multi-Activity Holiday Club for Kids (5-12 years) Open Monday - Friday during school holidays Mudeford Community Centre, Christchurch, BH23 4TR
Activities include:
Arts & Crafts, Beach Activities, Football, French/Spanish, Martial Arts, Performance Arts, Street Dance, Tennis, Woodland Adventures, Yoga and more… All Day - £25 (9am-4pm) Half Day - £15 (9am-12pm or 1pm-4pm)
Visit pouncingpanthers.com for more information, dates and timetable or call 01202 250 617.
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Classes are available at Winton (Monday), Ringwood (Kindy) and Verwood (Tuesday), Westbourne (Kindy), Swanage, Ferndown and Christchurch (Wednesday), Colehill and Southbourne (Thursday), Branksome and Ringwood (Friday) as well as Broadstone and New Milton (Saturday). To find out more or to join a waiting list in other locations, contact Mike on 023 8027 5849 or 07341 947883 or email us on dorset@helenogrady.co.uk. Visit www.helenogrady.co.uk
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The Creature Teachers
Did someone say...
Animals are the VIP guests at these creature encounter parties, including creepy crawlies, scaly reptiles, furry creatures, trained animals in action, or a barn owl flight. Suitable for age 4+. www.thecreatureteachers.co.uk
Entertainment Fairy Tale Faces
It may be the festive season but when it comes to children’s parties, there’s no limits! Action Laser Tag Exciting, enthralling ‘Zaptastic Birthday Party’ packages for kids aged 6+ are fun and hassle-free for parents. www.laserquestbournemouth.co.uk
Adventure Bus Dorset Have your child’s party delivered to your door, with party fun and disco inside a double-decker play bus. www.adventurebusdorset.co.uk
Creative Pop Idol for a Day Unique kids singing birthday parties where you create your own CD to the latest songs with a disco party. For kids aged 8+. www.popidolforaday.co.uk
The Creation Station Celebrate your child’s special day with a totally unique, hands-on arts and crafts creative party in Bournemouth, Broadstone, Christchurch, Wimborne & Verwood. www.thecreationstation.co.uk
Leoni’s Children’s Chocolate Parties
Krazy Kev
King of the Castles
Made By Me Craft Parties
Mr Merlin & Oke Dokey The Dragon
Bring fun and a wow factor with a craft party. For children aged 5-9 there’s a choice of Spa, Balloons, Dream Catchers, Dinosaur, Pony craft, Wings & Wands craft plus Teens & Tweens parties. www.madebymeparties.co.uk
Entertaining children’s party shows for over 5s with games, competitions and music. Magic workshops are great for older children. www.childrensentertainer-bournemouth.co.uk
Party Time for Kids
Wow-factor unique science parties with sparks, slime, explosions and more for party people aged 3 - 11. www.fun-science.org.uk/dorset
Crazy Creatures For a party with a difference, get up close to a special selection of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, invertebrates and birds. www.crazycreatures.org.uk
Little Pickles Playroom Ltd Take over the playroom with your own children’s party, with optional character appearances by Peppa Pig or Fireman Sam available. www.littlepicklesplayroom.co.uk
Wow your children and their friends with a chocolate party with hands-on fun-filled chocolate making for kids aged 7-16. www.childrenschocolateparties.co.uk
Fun Science
The place to go for a huge range of party inflatables, slides, soft play, ball pools, bungee runs, pillow bash, mini disco party set ups & more. www.getupandbounce.co.uk
Friendly and flexible face painting parties let your children & guests become their favourite character! www.fairytale-faces.co.uk
Laughter & fun are guaranteed with our comedy magic shows, featuring balloon modelling, a real magic rabbit, games, competitions and crazy party dances. www.krazy-kev.com
Discovery
Party Hire Get Up and Bounce
100% interactive party fun with a lively mix of games, music and the latest dance routines for children aged 5 - 11. www.childrensentertainerdorset.co.uk
Jiggy Wrigglers Get everyone wriggling and giggling with funky and upbeat songs, sensory equipment, parachute games and more. Seriously fun parties for boys and girls aged 1 – 6. www.jiggywrigglers.com/jwl-poole
Active and fun parties for indoors and outdoors, with didicars, soft play packages & bouncy castles. www.kingofthecastlesdorset.co.uk
Track Party With trains, cars and dinosaurs, Track Party is a unique play party that’s tailored just for your child. www.trackparty.co.uk
Sport Danny Thomas Coaching Academy Fun football themed parties with tournaments, penalty shoot-outs and prizes led by our experienced coaches. www.dannythomascoachingacademy.co.uk
Sport4Tots For an action-packed sports party, children aged 2-5 can take part in a variety of sports including football, rugby, cricket, hockey and tennis. www.sport4tots.co.uk
Would you like to advertise your business to over 40,000 parents?
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It’s Party Central at Lemur Landings
The Perfect Place for Your Party Animals Under pressure to book the perfect children’s party? Don’t panic! Farmer Palmer’s is here to help! Prices start from just £14.95 per child and include park entry, lunchtime party food, cake, ice cream, party bags with TY toy, tractor ride PLUS 2 adults in FREE with every child attending the party! Farmer Palmer parties are a real ‘baaa-gain’ and there’s no clearing up for ‘ewe’ too! To book or find out more, please visit www.farmerpalmers.co.uk/birthday-parties
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Lemur Landings, Dorset’s leading children’s entertainment centre, is a fantastic place for your special birthday party celebrations – it’s all taken care of.
See Page 2 for
exclusive £10 discount voucher for parties booked by 31 December 2018
Stacks of fun to be had on the enormous play frame, climbing activities including an exciting interactive DigiWall and Sky Tykes low ropes for younger ones and role play village. There are even bear building parties in the Ted Shed with fabulous Be My Bear pals and outfits. With dedicated party rooms and friendly hosts, it’s just the place for stress free parties and better still no mess for you to clear up. A range of affordable party options are available for tiny tots to the most adventurous climbers and phaser tag battle fun too! Make some very happy birthday memories with Lewey Lemur and the team. Call 01202 711570 to book or see www.lemurlandings.co.uk
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Every year, desperate parents exhaust themselves searching high and low for the most wanted toys on their child’s Christmas list. To avoid last minute panic and possible disappointment, the key is to do your research and start shopping early.
t-Have s u M ’s r This Yea
s a m t s i Chr uide Toy G 6+
Age
1.Dino Fingerling
To help you get prepared, we’ve put together a guide to Families top five favourite Christmas toys for 2018.
Age
2.LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Set
9-15
5+
Age
3.Pie Face Cannon
£16.99, www.argos.co.uk
£89.99, www.amazon.co.uk
£26.99, www.amazon.co.uk
This year WowWee Toys’ popular Fingerlings are all about dinosaurs (or mythical unicorns, if you fancy something a little less fierce). The dinos respond to motion and sound and are bound to be a massive hit.
Lego and Harry Potter in the same box, what’s not to love? If you’ve got a wizardmad child at home, this 878-piece set will allow them to recreate the magic of Hogwarts. This lovely set has lots of detail that will give Harry Potter fans hours of fun.
Pie Face continues to make the Christmas list year after year, and 2018 looks to be no different. This year’s Pie Face Cannon fires a pie every time, and it’s up to the contestant to use the red hand to stop getting “pied”. A great game to play after Christmas dinner! Pies away!
™
5+
4.Chow Crown Game £24.99, www.argos.co.uk
A silly game for the whole family. The hat plays music, and while the beats are going, the crown spins round, and the wearer has to eat as many of the food items attached to the forks as possible. A game that’s most fun when hunger looms, you are in charge of loading the food items on to the forks. You can choose tasty treats like marshmallows and strawberries or items that might not be so palatable! Great fun for parties and sleepovers too.
3+
Age
Age
5.The Poopsie Unicorn Surprise £49.99, www.amazon.co.uk
Mums and dads across the country will be delighted to find this defecating unicorn on Christmas lists! It is a ‘cute’ toy that poops out glittery slime when you feed it special unicorn food. While I can hear parents visibly groaning, this is sure to be a hit with unicorn-lovers everywhere. Plus, if you are worried about getting unicorn glitter poo all over your carpet on Christmas day, never fear, the toy comes with its own potty!
We also expect these will be flying off the shelves... Densters £19.99, www.firebox.com Age: 3+ Ani-Mate Mini Movie Maker Kit £14.99, www.findmeagift.co.uk Age: 8+ VTech Kiddizoom Smart Watch £44.99, www.amazon.co.uk Age: 4+ Gravitrax £48.29, www.amazon.co.uk Age: 8+ My Rebounder Mini Rebounding Trampoline £89.99, www.myrebounder.co.uk Age: 4+
Inspiring Christmas Gifts at Create at the Cove Lulworth-based craft activity centre, Create at the Cove, has launched a fantastic new children’s activity in time for Christmas. The new Make Your Own Cuddly Toy activity provides a fantastic selection of super quality and detailed cuddly toys that you can make either when
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visiting or to buy as a unique gift this Christmas. Each toy comes with all the stuffing required, a Make a Wish Star and a Birth Certificate in a delightful presentation carry bag.
Paint Your Own Pottery, Decopatch, Sand Art, Model Making and more in a relaxing, welcoming environment. The centre is open every day 10am - 5pm.
Make Your Own Cuddly Toy is the latest in a popular range of activities available at Create at the Cove, which include
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It’s beginning to look a lot like
Here’s our top picks of things to do and places to go for the whole family in Dorset over the festive season.
Experience the Magic of Meeting Santa on the Swanage Railway Christmas Festivities at Brewery Square Dorchester’s Brewery Square kicks off the festive season in style on 24 November with a host of live music, performances and entertainment, as well as their spectacular lights illumination. From 4 - 8pm, you can enjoy late night shopping, brass bands, the London Gospel Choir, mulled wine, visit Santa’s Grotto and even a Father Christmas Disco. Skating in the Square also opens and runs until 5 January.
Children can write letters to Santa for free at Brewery Square. Simply pick up a template letter from Skating in the Square and return via the Brewery Square Santa Mail post box. Last posting date is 16 December. Or why not tell Santa what’s on your Christmas wish list in person, by visiting Santa’s Grotto on Christmas Eve. Open from 12 – 2pm, it’s a chance to meet him and his reindeer one last time before a busy night ahead delivering presents around the world.
You can climb aboard an authentic steam train in miniature to see Santa in his magnificent station grotto on one of Moors Valley Railway’s Santa Specials, enjoy a magical performance
Children will receive a wrapped age appropriate present from Father Christmas. Santa's helpers will hand out a festive drink and a mince pie for the adults and a soft drink and wrapped biscuit for children. During your one-hour return journey there will be children's entertainment in each carriage for even more festive fun. Children's entertainment on the platform will commence 45 minutes prior to departure. Santa Special trains run during weekends from 1 – 16 December, and daily from 21 – 24 December.
Make it a Christmas to Remember Escape the hustle and bustle of the high streets to enjoy a countdown to Christmas celebrating good old family fun at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest.
For a really special Christmas treat, take your children to meet Santa on his special steam train along the Swanage railway.
of Rumpelstiltskin or make a wreath to decorate your home. There will also be a family Christmas Quiz Trail, festive refreshments and a traditional Christmas Tree Shop as well as plenty of family gift ideas at the Moors Valley Gift Shop. Full details can be found at www.moors-valley.co.uk/christmas
The Stress-Free Way to See Santa Looking for a stress free way to visit Father Christmas with your little ones? ‘Farmer Christmas’ is available to meet the children in his wonderful Winter cabin this December at Farmer Palmer’s.
get when meeting Father Christmas, so our clever Elves operate a time slot booking system when you arrive at the door – simple! First Christmas with your little one? Let our ‘moovelous’ team make it magical!
NO pre-booking required and NO LONG QUEUES! We understand how excited children
For more information please visit www.farmerpalmers.co.uk/whats-on
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CHRISTMAS LIGHTS, FESTIVALS & MARKETS
16 November – 2 January
24 November
1 – 2 December
6 December
Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland
Christchurch Christmas Festival
Dorset Team Christmas Fair
Dorchester Christmas Cracker
Town Centre, Christchurch BH23
High Street, Dorchester DT1 1UJ
Various Locations, Bournemouth
Christmas cheer takes over the town with a Christmas market, Santa’s procession, entertainment and music. With a guest appearance from Santa and festive lights switch on. From 10am – 8pm.
Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne BH21 1AS
A spectacular Christmas tree trail, enchanting illuminations and seasonal family fun from Bournemouth Seafront into the Lower Gardens the town centre and beyond to Westbourne, Boscombe and Southbourne. Experience the magical sight of glittering trees along pine-scented walkways. Explore the Alpine Market, skate under the stars in our enchanting Victorian gardens and visit Father Christmas in his alpine grotto.
18 November Christmas Wonderland Market Lighthouse Poole, Poole BH15 1UG A fantastic Christmas shopping event with over 120 stalls. Plus, free story time with Santa, Wonderland Workshops, photos with Santa and Candy Cane Alley leading to the Snowy Post Office where children can write their letters to Santa. Entry adult £2.50, child free. 11am – 4pm.
South Coast Makers Market Corpus Christi Parish Centre, Boscombe BH5 2BX Kick off your seasonal festivities and visit this friendly, design-led Makers Market featuring a diverse mix of artists & designers, mixing up local talent with makers from further afield. There’s a children's free craft table, local food producers, pop up cafe & creative workshops on offer. At St James Square in Parkwood Road. 10.30am - 4pm. Free entry & parking.
23 November Christmas Lights Switch On & The Sleeping Beauty
8 December
Vintage Christmas
Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1QR
The Tank Museum, Wareham BH20 6JG
Swanage Christmas Market
Christmas Time at Brewery Square has a host of events lined up, including live music, performances, skating, lights illumination and more. 4 - 8pm.
Fantastic entertainment, crafts and a festive vintage market and historical education in a unique setting. See Father Christmas arrive by tank & meet him in his Grotto (additional charge). 10am – 5pm.
Station Road & Commercial Road, Swanage BH19 1DF
New Milton Christmas Festival High Street, New Milton BH25 A great family-friendly event with live music, stalls including a French market and Disney-themed Christmas parade. 12pm – 5pm.
25 November Littledown Christmas Market BH Live Active, Littledown BH7 7DX Enjoy the festive market atmosphere with a visit from Father Christmas, face painting, entertainment from Jules the Entertainer, plus performances from Pavilion Youth Theatre and festive choir. 11am – 4pm. Adult £1, child 50p (Age 6-15), under 5’s free.
1 December Lyme Regis Christmas Light Switch On Town Centre, Lyme Regis DT7 Activities include a lantern workshop at the Baptist Church Pine Hall at 3pm, followed by a lantern parade at 5.15pm with the Majorettes and Father Christmas through Broad Street, concluding with the lights switch on at 5.30pm.
Swanage Christmas Lights Illumination
Join us for a very magical evening featuring a magical fairy tale Sleeping Beauty show with a London based cast of superb dancers & costumes leading to a grand finale with the Christmas light switch on. 5 – 9pm. Free.
Join the community for a festive celebration whilst the Christmas lights are illuminated.
familiesonline.co.uk
A festive celebration with late night shop opening, Christmas street stalls, live music, arts, festive foods, and see the town Christmas lights switched on. From 4pm.
Christmas Time at Brewery Square
Castlepoint Shopping Centre, Bournemouth BH8 9UZ
Pick up your perfect Christmas gifts
Featuring some of the best makers, designers, vintage sellers and craft suppliers in Dorset with unique gifts that you won't find on the high street! 10am – 4pm. Free.
Swanage Railway Station, Swanage BH19 1HH
2 December
Enjoy browsing the many and varied stalls of fresh and locally sourced produce in this Christmas Market and see Father Christmas in his sleigh. 10am – 5pm.
Verwood Christmas Extravaganza
Byron Road Christmas Lights Switch On
Ferrett Green, Verwood BH31 6HF
Byron Road, New Milton BH25 7NX
Father Christmas will be visiting plus there’s the lighting of the Christmas tree, carol singing, band music, food and drinks stalls and small rides for the children. 5 - 8pm.
Come and support one of Britain’s best residential street Christmas light displays which has raised over £70,000 for various charities. There’s plenty of live entertainment and a special celebrity guest appearance for the big switch on. Santa will be visiting and giving out presents to children aged 8 & under. 4 – 7pm.
Christmas Lights Switch On Event and Christmas Market Town Centre, Ringwood BH24 This fabulous Christmas Lights Switch On event has a festive market with local traders, Santa’s Grotto, entertainment and the official turning on of the Christmas Lights led by Santa in his horse drawn carriage. 10am – 7.30pm.
12 December Blandford Yuletide Event & Lights Switch On 2018 Town Centre, Blandford DT11 7DZ The Yuletide Festival kicks off at 5pm and will include a whole host of activities including a lantern parade, carol singing, fireworks and artisan market. You might even catch a glimpse of Father Christmas too. 5 – 8pm.
13 – 20 December Illuminated Trail Forde Abbey, Chard TA20 4LU
5 December Bridport Christmas Cheer Town Centre, Bridport DT6 Late night opening for shops and businesses, shopping, lantern parade, arts & craft stalls, farmers market, fun fair, Father Christmas & more! 4 – 8pm.
Share in the wonder of the season with an enchanting, sparkling trail around the gardens. Inside there’s carol singing and seasonal treats, plus Father Christmas is here 15 - 16 December. 3.30 – 6.30pm. Meet Santa £2.50 extra.
16 December Christmas Market High Street, Shaftesbury SP7
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school, nursery, café, shop, centre or club? Just ask! editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
Salisbury-based The Anonymous Travelling Market are hosting markets at a number of special Christmas events in Dorset and beyond this season. Their markets are a unique combination of artisan, street food and produce, selling many of locally-made goods in the county. Some of these events include Gillingham Lights Parade on 30 November, Sturminster Newton Producers Market on 1 December, Dorchester Christmas Cracker on 6
Filling the streets from one end of the town to the other, this is probably the biggest, and the busiest Christmas market in Dorset, complete with Christmas parade & lights switch on. 10am – 4pm.
December, Blandford Yuletide Festival on 12 December and Shaftesbury Christmas Market on 16 December with others in locations just outside the county borders. Events Director, Steve Dauwalder said, "We work with local Business Chambers and Councils, keeping our markets family orientated many alongside Christmas Light events, other entertainment and all at the heart of local shopping."
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Christmas is a great time to introduce your children to the magic of live theatre and create special family memories for years to come. 24 November
8 December – 6 January
The Santa Show 2018 – Santa’s Christmas Party
Sleeping Beauty
The Regent Centre, Christchurch BH23 1AS
A family treat, Sleeping Beauty is packed with great songs, amazing dance routines and plenty of laughter. Starring EastEnders’s Rita Simons and Milkshake’s Olivia Birchenough. From £19.50.
An interactive festive family show with a host of festive songs and party games particularly suitable for 2 - 7 year olds. Plus, there’s a special meet, greet and treat with Father Christmas himself! 11am – 2pm. Family £38.
25 November Magical Christmas Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth BH1 2BU See over 280 talented young dancers from seven local dance schools showcase a dazzling display of dance and costume. £14.50.
2 December Santa in Love Weymouth Pavilion, Weymouth DT4 8ED Join Santa and his friends in this fun-filled family musical complete with games, giggles and all your favourite Christmas songs. Santa will be around after the show to meet your little ones and hand out presents. 2pm. Family £42.
7 – 31 December Dick Whittington Poole Lighthouse, Poole BH15 1UG
Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth BH1 2BU
12 –24 December Your Toys Sherling Studio, Poole Lighthouse, Poole BH15 1UG A puppetry show like no other - that features your very own toys! A funny and heart-warming story about friends pulling together that’s full of music, creative play, silliness and surprises. Bring a toy & watch it join in the rumpus. From £9.
15 - 24 December Best Ever Christmas Show Allendale Centre, Wimborne Minster BH21 1AS Santa brings this fun-filled festive extravaganza to life with some best loved characters - the Naughty Gnome, Silly Elf and Fairy Snowdrop! Don’t miss the sing-along, dance-along, clap-along and funniest ‘Best Ever Christmas Show’ - plus all children get a free ice cream! Family £39. Under 2s free.
A family pantomime adventure with Dick Whittington and his acrobatic cat journey from Poole to Olde London Town & beyond seeking fame and fortune. Starring CBeebies favourite, Chris Jarvis. From £18.
19 December
19 – 24 December 2018
The Santa Show 2018 – Santa’s Christmas Party
Christmas Spectacular
Verwood Hub, Verwood BH31 7QE
Bursting with festive delights, this is a magical and heart-warming Christmas treat for the whole family to enjoy, with dazzling costumes and sparkling production. 7pm. 2pm matinee performances Sat – Mon. Family £58.
Everyone’s getting ready for Santa's Christmas Party, but somebody has been up to mischief... Help get Santa's Christmas Party back on track with festive songs and party games. Plus, there’s a special meet, greet and treat with Father Christmas himself! 1pm & 4pm.
22 December The Snow Baby Bridport Arts Centre, Bridport DT6 3NR A magical children’s theatre show with beautiful puppetry, imaginative storytelling and music – a gentle show exploring family, love and loss, with music, confetti and funny moments for the whole family to enjoy! 2pm. £6.
15 December – 5 January
The Regent Centre, Christchurch BH23 1AS
21 December – 6 January Cinderella Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne BH21 1LT Cinderella heads off to the Ball to meet her very own Prince Charming but will her wicked Ugly Stepsisters try to stop her from getting her ‘Happy Ever After’? With toe-tapping tunes, laughter and eye-popping special effects! Adult £18.15, under 16s £14.30.
3 January Beauty and The Beast: Sing-A-Long
Dick Whittington
Corn Exchange, Dorchester DT1 1HF
Weymouth Pavilion, Weymouth DT4 8ED
Banish those post-Christmas blues with a special sing-along screening of Disney’s latest spectacular. With on-screen lyrics, fans young and old can sing along to their favourite hits from this romantic fairy tale. 2pm. £4.
The rags-to-riches story tells the tale of a boy from Gloucester who travels all the way to London to make his fortune. With stunning scenery, toe-tapping songs, and incredible special effects. Family £56.
Check details with the venue before you come just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print. And don’t forget to tell them you heard it first in Families Dorset magazine!
Buy your real Christmas trees from Moors Valley Country Park
FREE baby Christmas tree with every purchase
Escape the hustle and bustle of the high street and enjoy the countdown to Christmas celebrating good old family fun. Try a Festive Quiz Trail, enjoy a humerous Rumplestiltskin show and experience the popular Santa Specials at the railway.
Have a fun day out on us... free parking with every tree purchase Festive fun events. Visit officialmoorsvalley for more details
On sale 30 November - 16 December Open daily 10am - 4pm Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath, Ringwod, BH24 2ET
Festive Family Fun
More information:
forestryengland.uk/christmas
moors-valley.co.uk/christmas
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Where 's Santa? Santa’s popping up all across Dorset this Christmas, so go along and see him before he heads back to the North Pole!
17 November – 24 December Santa's Grotto / Breakfast or Tea with Santa Galton Garden Centre, Dorchester DT2 8BY John Browns Garden Centre, Wimborne BH21 6RD Wyevale West Parley Garden Centre, Ferndown BH22 8SJ Wyevale Wimborne Garden Centre, Wimborne BH21 2DN Bring the kids along to the most magical Santa's grotto this side of the North Pole where every child will receive a special present from Santa himself! Or have Breakfast or Tea with Santa and receive a present! Grotto £6 per child. Breakfast/ Tea adult from £5, child £10.95.
23 November - 24 December Santa's Christmas Farm & Festive Grotto
24 November – 24 December
Meet Father Christmas
Sail with Santa
Stewarts Garden Centre, Wimborne, BH21 7DF
Shire Hall, Dorchester DT1 1UY
City Cruises, Poole BH15 1BQ
Father Christmas arrives on 6 December and will be visiting throughout weekends until 23 December (when he isn’t supervising the elves at the North Pole of course!). Every child receives a special Christmas Gift. 4 – 8pm 6 Dec, 11am – 1pm & 2 – 4pm weekends from 8 – 23 Dec. Child £4.
Santa has swapped his sleigh for a boat so join him for a cruise around Poole Harbour, with a 30-minute magic show and balloon modelling and get to meet the man himself. Each child receives a Christmas present from Santa. £16.50pp. Under 1s free.
Join the mischievous elves and Santa’s real reindeer on a journey through Santa’s Winter Wonderland. Mon - Sat 8.30am – 5.30pm, Thurs until 8pm, Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm. Adult £1, child £10.95 (7 months – 12 years).
Penguin Quest Stewarts Garden Centre, Christchurch BH23 4SA A magical journey through Santa’s Winter Wonderland with the playful penguins. See Santa’s real reindeer too! Mon - Sat 9am – 6pm, Thurs until 8pm, Sun 10.30am – 4.30pm. Adult £1, child £10.95 (7 months – 12 years).
30 November – 24 December Santa's Woodland Grotto
Meet Santa and real reindeer, donkeys, llamas and all the baby farm animals. You can also ride on the tractor sleigh, and receive a free photo and goodie bag. 11am-5pm weekdays, 9.30am-5.30pm weekends & holidays. Adult £4.95, over 2's £14.95, under 2's £8.95.
Santa’s Woodland Grotto has real wood cabins, animals, quality wrapped gifts and printed photographs of your meeting, ensuring a fun, interactive & memorable festive experience. Wednesday - Friday from 10.30am - 5pm, weekends 9.30am 6pm. Prices vary. Pre-booking advised.
Upton Country Park, Poole BH17 7BJ
1–2, 8–9, 15–16, 20–24 Dec Swanage Railway, Swanage BH19 1HB Enjoy a festive steam train ride and meet Father Christmas on board his special train. All-inclusive tickets include a present for every child and seasonal refreshments for adults. Pre-booking essential. Christmas festivities include Carol Trains, Christmas lunches and a special Christmas Belle in our luxurious Pullman Observation Car.
Christmas at Adventure Wonderland Adventure Wonderland, Christchurch BH23 6BA Meet Father Christmas in his grotto in his log cabin with fantastic presents for all of the children! (Pre-booking required). Plus, enjoy the indoor adventure play centre, Nativity Cuddles Corner & special pantomime. 10am – 6pm.
24 November – 23 December Christmas at Paultons Paultons Park, Ower SO51 6AL Meet Santa in his magical Grotto, experience Peppa Pig World in a festive setting and enjoy selected rides and attractions across the Park. Selected dates until 23 December. 9.30am – 5.15pm.
Breakfast with Santa
Santa Specials
Coach & Horses, Wimborne BH21 1QB
Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
A great chance to meet the man in red over a delicious breakfast and give him your Christmas letter. Booking required. 9 – 11am.
Take a trip on the Moors Valley steam train and visit Santa in his railway grotto! Early pre-booking advised. All ages welcome. 11am – 3.30pm. £17.50
24 December Meet Santa and Santa's Reindeer Brewery Square, Dorchester DT1 1QR
Visit Father Christmas Weymouth Sea Life Adventure Park, Weymouth DT4 7SX
Visit Santa's Grotto from 12 - 2pm, and see Rudolph and Blitzen before they shoot off into the skies to deliver presents all over the world!
A jolly Elf will guide you through the festive forest to meet Father Christmas in his Christmas Cabin and receive a special Sea Life gift. There’s also a Christmas Craft Zone for tree decoration making, Reindeer food making or Christmas letter writing.
SANTA SPECIALS DECEMBER 2018 GO ONLINE
1–22 December
FOR TIME S AND TO BOOK
BOOKIN OPEN NOGS W
Magical Father Christmas at Farmer Palmer's
SWANAG ERAILWAY .CO.UK
Farmer Palmer's Farm Park, Poole BH16 6EU Make magical memories meeting Father Christmas in his wonderful winter cabin. No pre-booking required and no long queues! Our clever Elves operate a time slot booking system on your arrival. Visit 10am – 4pm on weekends (or 11-12 Tue/Wed) during December. Only £6 extra and fab present.
To promote your local event in the next issue please email editor@familiesdorset.co.uk
£17 per person
1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 21-24 Dec
£16 per person 20 Dec
Each day trains depart from Swanage at 10:30, 12:05, 13:40 and 15:15
swanagerailway.co.uk
SWA2280-SantaSpecials-87x85mm-001.indd 1 familiesonline.co.uk
15 December
Santa Specials
Coach & Horses, Wimborne BH21 1QB
24–25 November, 1–2, 8–9, 15–23 December
8–9, 15-16 December
8–9, 15-23 December
Santa’s Arrival Day & Grotto See Santa’s arrival with free music and festive market stalls to enjoy from 11am – 3pm. Santa’s Grotto will then be open every Saturday in December from 1 – 3pm.
8 - 9, 15 - 24 December
Elfish Expedition
Honeybrook Adventure Farm, Wimborne Minster BH21 4JD
24 November, 1, 8, 15, 22 December
6, 8 - 23 December
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Musical Mayhem Harmonica Lolly Popstick
Sparkle in the Park
Lemur Landings, Poole BH12 4N
Make jam jar lanterns, decorations and jingle bells under the gazebos beside the Galleon Play Area. All materials provided (but bring a jam jar if you want). 3.30 – 5.30pm. Plus enjoy the candlelit woodland walk at 4.30pm. Free.
Make some noise and create your own harmonica. 10.30 – 11.15am.
24 November, 15 December Bugs and Buds Knoll Gardens, Wimborne BH21 7ND
From 30 November British-Grown Christmas Tree Shop Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET Support sustainable forestry with quality Christmas trees all grown in Britain, ranging from 4 - 8 feet, including the Norway Spruce with its wonderful scent and the non-needle drop Nordman Fir variety. Potted trees, wreaths, holly and mistletoe sprays and tree stands also available. Free parking with purchase. 10am - 4pm. Prices from c. £25.
Throughout Nov & Dec Cuddly Toy Making, Pottery, Crafts & More Create at the Cove, Wareham BH20 5SG Get creative at this charming and unique all-weather venue. Choose from a variety of craft kits, fossil digging, model making, decopatch, paint your own pottery, colouring & painting, make your own cuddly toy and more. There’s something for all ages & budgets. Open daily from 10am – 5pm.
8, 27 Nov, 4, 11 Dec Arty Fun Lemur Landings, Poole BH12 4N Have some crafty fun & create some pretty Remembrance poppies on 8 Nov, or paper plate sea life creatures on 27 Nov. Or for festive arty fun, make finger print Christmas trees on 4 Dec and festive tree decorations on 11 Dec. 10.30 – 11.15am.
10 November You’ve Got Dragons Sherling Studio, Poole Lighthouse, Poole BH15 1UG A delightful tale of one child’s journey to come to terms with their dragons told in unique style. With live music, this is a humorous and touching exploration of the dragons we all face. 11am & 2pm. £8. Plus, free craft activity workshop from 12 – 1.30pm.
10 November, 29 December Track Party St Marks Church, Bournemouth BH10 4HY There’s an epic train track ready for your little ones to play on plus car track and 100s of toy dinosaurs. Sessions from 10am – 5pm. From £7.
11 November Morgan & West’s Utterly Spiffing Spectacular Magic Show for Kids Corn Exchange, Dorchester DT1 1HF A show for all the family, where magic and silliness abound, mixing brain boggling illusion and good old-fashioned tomfoolery. Suitable 5 years+. 2pm. £25 family.
13, 27 Nov, 11 Dec Short Breaks Play Session Lemur Landings, Poole BH12 4N Disabled children and their siblings can enjoy exclusive soft play sessions from 6.15 – 8.15pm. Pre-registration required. £7.50 family.
13, 28 Nov, 6, 13 Dec Foody Fun Lemur Landings, Poole BH12 4N Your little ones can get creative & decorate your own rice crispy cake on 13 Nov, or decorate your own gingerbread person on 28 Nov. For festive foody fun, make melted snowmen on 6 Dec or decorate your own edible Christmas trees on 13 Dec. 10.30 – 11.15am.
A Saturday morning monthly toddler club to inspire a love of nature by encouraging interaction with the garden's many wildlife inhabitants as well as its trees and flowers. 10.30am – 12pm. £4.50.
24 – 25 Nov, 1 – 2 Dec Reindeer Making Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre, Bournemouth BH6 4EN Make your own reindeer in time for Christmas with five 30-minute sessions at the Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre. 12 – 3pm. Booking essential. £7 per reindeer.
25 November Have a Go Day Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre, Bransgore BH23 8EE Never tried archery, bushcraft or built a catapult? Now’s your chance to have a go as a family- and you never know, you may find a new passion or hobby! Advance booking required.
Lodmoor Country Park, Weymouth DT4 7SX
30 Nov – 30 Dec Norwich Puppet Theatre - The Frog & The Princess Portland Royal Manor Theatre, Portland DT5 1LT Traditional and contemporary puppet craft offers a fresh, humorous and poignant twist to this much-loved fairy tale. Suitable age 4+. 6 – 8pm. Adult £6, child £5.
30 November – 1 January Christmas at Kingston Lacy Kingston Lacy, Wimborne Minster BH21 4EA Kingston Lacy is transformed both inside and out with twinkling lights, stunning decorations and delicate frosts. Mon/Tue 10am-4pm, Wed – Sun 10am-7pm.
1 December Fantastical Chocolate Festival Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth BH1 2BU A Willy Wonka-inspired chocolate festival with sweet treats, singalong live music, themed characters and story corners. Plus, there’s a chocolate arts and crafts station, chocolate tasting and a chocolate factorythemed play zone. Adult £9, child £6.
14 November, 5 December Crafty Fun Lemur Landings, Poole BH12 4N Make your own Autumnal artwork with Autumn leaves paintwork on 14 November, or create Christmas cards for family & friends on 5 December. 10.30 – 11.15am.
18 November, 9 December Roller Disco Weymouth Pavilion, Weymouth DT4 8ED Get your skates on for the Roller Planet roller disco. All ages welcome. 1 - 3pm & 4 - 6pm. £5.50.
21, 29 November Lewey & Lola Character Visits Lemur Landings, Poole BH12 4N Come & monkey around with Lewey on 21 November or Lola on 29 November. Cut, stick and colour crafts and masks with their gang before the character’s arrival for a meet and greet. 10.30 – 11.15am.
22 November Jurassic Park in Concert Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth BH1 2BU Celebrate one of the biggest movie franchises of all time with the Jurassic Park 25th Anniversary. Watch the film in HD with a full symphony orchestra performing live. £26.50 – £94.00.
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Katy vs Taylor - The Secret Showdown Weymouth Pavilion, Weymouth DT4 8ED Get ready for the tribute pop bout of the year as pop princesses Katy Perry and Taylor Swift go head-to-head. 2pm & 6pm.
Norwich Puppet Theatre - The Frog & The Princess Langton Matravers Village Hall, Swanage BH19 3HA & Portesham Village Hall, Weymouth DT3 4NS Traditional and contemporary puppet craft offers a fresh, humorous and poignant twist to this much-loved fairy tale. Suitable age 4+. 11am - 1pm in Langton Matravers & 6 -8pm in Portesham. Adult £6, child £5.
1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23 Dec Get Crafty at Christmas Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ Make your own natural Christmas decoration when you visit Corfe Castle this December. 11am – 4pm. £1.50pp.
1 – 23 December Christmas at Haynes Haynes International Motor Museum, Yeovil BA22 7LH Santa's reindeer have gone missing and rumour has it that they are hiding in the Museum. Help Santa by finding the missing reindeer and win a present from his festive lucky-dip bin. 10.30am – 4pm.
1 December – 6 January Family Christmas Quiz Trail Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET Test your general knowledge of 2018 on our family quiz trail while children answer fun festive questions. From 9am - 2.30pm. £1.50 per trail card from the Visitor Centre.
Twelve Days of Christmas Castle Quest Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ Search for the shields hidden in the castle ruins and enjoy fun activities to complete the Christmas-themed family castle quest. 10am – 4pm.
2 December Christmas Activity Trail Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre, Bransgore BH23 8EE A festive activity trail to get you in the Christmas spirit, with archery, bouldering, catapult building and puzzling activities. Advance booking required. Child £5.
Norwich Puppet Theatre The Frog & The Princess Cerne Abbas Village Hall, Dorchester DT2 7GY Traditional and contemporary puppet craft offers a fresh, humorous and poignant twist to this much-loved fairy tale. Suitable age 4+. 3 - 5pm. Adult £6, child £5.
Wessex Youth Orchestra Poole Lighthouse, Poole BH15 1UG Join the Wessex Youth Orchestra for a heart-warming afternoon of festive winter favourites. 3 – 5.30pm.
5 December
30 December
The Snowman
New Year's Eve (Eve) Phaser Night
Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
Poole Lighthouse, Poole BH15 1UG
Lemur Landings, Poole BH12 4N
Join the Snowman and James on their magical journey through the winter sky in this special film showing together with a live orchestral performance. 3pm & 7pm. From £11.
End your 2018 with a super evening of phaser tag aboard our giant space station themed playframe for six exciting phaser missions & Digiwall fun! Minimum age 6+. 6.30pm. £10.
Make a beautiful festive wreath from a selection of natural materials to decorate your home this Christmas. All materials including festive refreshments will be provided. Booking essential. 10.30am – 1pm. £45pp.
5, 12 December Family Film Night Shire Hall, Dorchester DT1 1UY It’s family film night. Popcorn and hot chocolate are provided, so bring yourselves and all the things you need to get comfy. Arthur Christmas 5 December & Polar Express 12 December. 4pm. Child £4. Parents go free.
8 December The Great Pudding Stir Priest’s House Museum, Wimborne BH21 1HR Stir a bowl of Mrs Beeton’s Christmas Pudding mix, make a wish and taste the finished product. The house will be festively decorated. 10am–4pm. Adult £1.50, child £1.
12 December A Christmas ‘Cracker’ Family Night Ride Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
The Little Match Girl
31 December
Corn Exchange, Dorchester DT1 1HF A touching, madcap and heart-warming Christmas show using visual storytelling, live music and puppetry to shine a light on this classic winter tale. 1.30pm & 4.30pm. £25 family.
17 – 18 December
New Year’s Eve Family Party Verwood Hub, Verwood BH31 7QE The perfect party for families and friends with Nintendo Wii Mario Kart, soft play for under 5’s, arts and crafts, disco, photo booth and finger buffet. From 7.30pm.
1 January
Rumpelstiltskin Moors Valley Country Park, Ashley Heath, BH24 2ET
The Lyme Lunge
A new adaptation of the classic fairy-tale with anarchic storytelling, beautiful imagery, magical effects and songs to have you singing your way home. Booking essential. 6.30 – 8.30pm. £10pp.
Come and watch people in fancy-dress brave the icy waters at 1pm, or if want to take part, just a paddle in the sea is enough to say you've 'done the Lyme Lunge' for charity.
The Sandy Beach, Lyme Regis DT7 3JQ
21 December Kids Christmas Trail Durlston Country Park, Swanage BH19 2JL Come down to Durlston and get in the festive spirit with our Christmas Trail & win a prize! 10.30am – 3pm. £3.
Christmas Storytime Lemur Landings, Poole BH12 4N Bring your little lemurs along for some festive fun as we explore the story of The Night Before Christmas. 10.30 – 11.15am. £5.20 including admission.
14-16, 21-23, 28-30 Dec Winter Lights at Corfe Castle Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ Explore the lantern-lit castle grounds. Share your special memory or wish and place it on one of our 'Christmas Wish' trees. The Lord of Misrule will also be causing mischief in the castle at 5pm & 6pm. 5 – 7pm.
14 – 31 December The Lord of Misrule
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A fun, Christmassy family cycle ride in the woods followed by a hot chocolate. Booking essential. Booking essential. 5 - 6.30pm. 8yrs+. £10pp. Bike hire £6.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS NEAR YOU Saturday 17th November, 9am - 8pm SWINDON Lights Festival + 3 weekends running up to Christmas, Town Centre
Sunday 18th November, 9am - 3pm
SHAFTESBURY Cobbles Market, High Street
Saturday 17th November, 10am - 8pm CHIPPENHAM Lights Switch On, High Street
Friday 30th November, 3pm - 8pm GILLINGHAM Lights Parade, High Street
Saturday 1st December 10am - 5pm
STURMINSTER NEWTON Producers Market
Corfe Castle, Wareham BH20 5EZ
Thursday 6th December 5pm - 9pm
Join Corfe Castle's very own 17th-century mischief-maker for stories and games as you journey through the castle ruins.
Thursday 6th December 3pm - 8pm
15 – 23 December Winter Warmer at Monkey World Monkey World, Wareham BH20 6HH The Watering Hole has been transformed into a festive forest for your little monkeys. Kids can write letters to Santa, try the snowball sling and try Christmas crafts. Mrs Claus will be helping to make presents for the primates. 10am – 5pm.
DON’T FORGET to check with the venue before setting off just in case anything’s changed since we went to print.
familiesonline.co.uk
16 December
Festive Wreath Workshop
CASTLE CARY Shop Til You Drop
DORCHESTER Chistmas Cracker, Town Centre
Saturday 8th December Midday - 5pm TISBURY Tiz The Season, High Street
Saturday 15th December 10am - 4pm
YEOVIL Ye Old Christmas Market, Middle Street
Sunday 16th December 10am - 4pm
SHAFTESBURY Christmas Market, High Street
The Anonymous Travelling Market www.theatm.co.uk | info@theatm.co.uk Stall Enquiries Still Welcome on Some Events
Families Dorset 15
Christmas Time AT
BREWERY SQUARE
Saturday 24th November, from 4pm