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Issue 54: September/ October 2016

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Futurepath Childcare day nursery opens in Whiteley See more on page 3 www.fpchildcare.co.uk

September-October 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

Editor: Rebecca Carr 07789 882467 editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Next issue:November/ December 2016

In this issue...

Booking deadline: 3 October 2016

News & views

Education and school news

Independent school open days

Getting your child into a good routine

My child hates school: what can I do?

Advertising: Claire Clarricoates claire.clarricoates@familiespublishing.co.uk

Disclaimer: Families Hampshire West Magazine is part of Families Magazines Ltd a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families ® is a registered trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Temple House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Hampshire West Magazine are fully protected by copyright and non of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

10 The benefits of after school clubs and classes 14 What’s on in September & October 16 Halloween half term activities 18 What’s on at the theatre

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Futurepath Childcare is a family run day nursery for children from birth to 5 years. With four locations in Park Gate, Romsey, West Wellow and our newest nursery in Whiteley are perfectly situated in exclusive and tranquil environments. We are committed to providing high quality care with a maximum capacity of 80 children per nusery. Futurepath provide first class childcare services in an activity based learning environment to enhance early social skills, taught in a fun, nurturing care-giving environment. We also provide freshly cooked healthy meals onsite and we offer sibling discounts. To visit one of our nurseries or to find out more, please contact our nursery manager or visit our website.

www.fpchildcare.co.uk September-October 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

Families news

News

& views

Make a will for the sake of your children

Breastfeeding support group This year LLLGB will celebrate 45 years of La Leche League in Great Britain, an organisation which is almost exclusively run by volunteers in the UK. Many mothers find that coming along in the early days for help, leads to more than just a one off stop in for help, although that is of course fine too. Mothers develop friendships, sharing their breastfeeding experiences and what it is like to mother through breastfeeding. Some mothers decide to become members of LLLGB, enabling them to borrow from our extensive library and receive Breastfeeding Matters magazine bi-monthly. To date, LLLGB have 239 volunteer breastfeeding counsellors nationwide and 3 of them are based in Southampton. If you are pregnant and hoping to breastfeed, currently breastfeeding or need help with breastfeeding, come along and meet us. Group runs on Mondays in term time, 10-12, St James’ Road Methodist Church, Shirley, Southampton.

It’s a chilling thought that more than 24,000 children are bereaved of a parent every year in Britain. That’s 65 a day. And yet more than half of the UK population has not made a will. If no will is in place, the rules of intestacy say the spouse or civil partner inherits the first £250,000 and the personal belongings - and shares the remainder with any children. So, children are entitled to nothing if the estate is worth less than £250,000. But the more worrying situation is when both parents die without naming a guardian. Children may be placed in foster care while a court decides who should look after them. Just imagine the heartache and the family disputes. One solicitor quoted in The Telegraph said: “Parents are ultimately playing Russian Roulette with their child’s future.” Children should be involved in the discussion about choosing a guardian. They need the security of knowing that the person loves and wants them. A guardian should understand how the children were raised, already have a good relationship with them, live nearby and be financially sound. Simple wills at Heritage Will Writing cost £95 for an individual and £145 for a couple. Contact Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243 to arrange an appointment.

Competition winners from our previous issues Family ticket to Marwell Zoo; Joy Holland. Paultons Park family ticket; Ruth Hawkins. Jumbo Games bundle; Alison Kukla and three copies of Chalk on the Wildside; Charlene Hudson, Anne-Marie Lee-Cann and Jennifer Spake. Congratulations to all our winner and thank you to our readers for entering.

Families Hampshire West

Christmas at Paultons book your tickets early to avoid missing out Families visiting Christmas at Paultons will enjoy Rudolph’s Adventure as they join the red-nosed reindeer on his journey to find Santa in time for Christmas Eve. Along the way, children will meet many of Rudolph’s animal friends and be greeted by Father Christmas himself at the magical grotto. Christmas at Paultons will be taking place on selected days from Saturday November 19 until Friday December 23, a ticket is the perfect pre-Christmas gift for children and parents to look forward to. Tickets start from £19.25 and include entry to Rudolph’s Adventure and Peppa Pig World, as well a gift for the children. All visits must be pre-booked and certain rides will not be open, for further details and opening times: paultonspark.co.uk/ attractions/christmas

Save the date for Wear a Hat Day 2017 Friday 31 March 2017 is Wear a Hat Day, the premier brain tumour awareness event for Brain Tumour Research. Register today and start planning your event. Visit www. wearahatday.org for top 10 event ideas and fundraising tips and to register

Autumn Theatre at The Berry Theatre Continuing to showcase the very best in family theatre, The Berry Theatre is offering an autumn season full of wonderful tales for all. Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company return with an up-to-date size 13 ½ retelling of The Elves and the Shoemaker (17th Sept). For the very first time the venue welcomes MONSTRO Theatre with puppet musical Bookstory (8th Oct), telling the story of the story in the digital age and Goblin Theatre with the captivating Penguin! Elephant! (12th Nov) which will have ages 3+ jumping for joy. Offering a sprinkle of their usual theatrical magic, tutti frutti light up the half-term holiday with Underneath a Magical Moon (24th Oct) a sparkling reimagining of Peter Pan. To book call the Box Office on 023 8065 2333 or visit www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

A bumper-sized offer from Snappy Tags Snappy Tags are a quick and easy way to label clothing and other soft items, and hard items such as lunch-boxes, shoes and accessories can be quickly named with our Snappy Stickers. So, if you need to label your children’s uniform and games kit, not to mention packed lunch boxes and Beavers and Brownies uniforms, then look no further. This Bumper-sized Back to School Complete Naming Kit comprises a Snappy Tag Kit with 50 Tags together with the Snappy Stickers Starter Pack. For more information and to order visit www.snappytags.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families news

A party like no other at Oxygen Freejumping Oxygen Freejumping, Southampton’s ultimate trampoline park, is making September and October a party season to remember. With a special £16pp offer, plus a free ticket for the birthday child, Oxygen is set to make your birthday party arrangements a mere jump in the park! Birthday parties at Oxygen Freejumping consist of an hour to explore the entire trampoline park. Fly across over 150 connected trampolines with friends, or battle it out on the bounciest dodgeball courts you can imagine. Then it’s over to the exclusive party room to soak up the atmosphere with jumping music, pizza and drinks. Oxygen Freejumping has it all covered so adults can sit back, relax and enjoy themselves, while the kids jump for joy! Throughout September and October Oxygen is guaranteeing you an offer to make every birthday, bouncing brilliant. When you book a kids party you’ll pay only £16 per child, and the birthday child is Heritage Will Writing 1-4p = Sept 1 high-flying 13/07/2015 offer, 12:13book Page 1 completely free.=To make the 14_Layout most of this now at oxygenfreejumping.co.uk using code PARTYTIME.

The Perfect Frozen Party at Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink

New roof and children’ s party packag es for 2016

For the first time Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink can guarantee skaters a rain-free experience, something that we’re sure all parents will truly appreciate! Organisers say the roof will be clear so although covered, the rink will still have great views of the Cathedral. Unlike an indoor rink, the sides will remain entirely open so ambient noise and fresh air will make it feel very different and special. The new roof makes planning a family trip to the Ice Rink so much more convenient. And to make it even better the Cathedral is offering a selection of pre-bookable food and drink packages, including a new Children’s Party Package. For children who need a little encouragement to build up their confidence on the ice can make use of the fun skating aids available to hire from the ice rink. There’s pandas and penguins to provide a little extra stability or bananas for children to sit on and enjoy being pulled around the rink. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink and it looks like it’s going to be the best year yet, come rain, shine or snow! Tickets can be purchased from Winchester Cathedral Box Office online at www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ice-rink, by calling 01962 857 276 or in person. Booking charges apply.

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September-October 2016

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Families education

Education

& school news

King Edward VI School is renowned for academic excellence King Edward VI School, Southampton is renowned for academic excellence. In 2015, 83% of A Level grades were awarded at A*, A or B and 40% gained three A grades or more. 95% of all GCSEs and IGCSEs were awarded at A*, A or B. The School offers a wide range of cocurricular opportunities including overseas trips and a thriving Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and is involved in much charity work. Sport and the arts are also an integral part of School life with many pupils competing and performing at national and international levels. Our open evening is on Friday 7th October from 6.30pm. Bursaries and scholarships are available. For more information please call 02380 799216 or visit www.kes.hants.sch.uk

To advertise in our next issue call 07789 882467 or email editor@familieshampshirewest.co.uk The booking deadline is Monday 3rd October

School dinner caterer launches a children’s book to boost take up of free infant meals A new children’s story book promoting the benefits of nutritionally-balanced midday meals has been published by the charitable school dinner provider, City Catering Southampton. Rumble-Tum! is a beautifully illustrated tale that looks at a week in the life of two school chums: Danny who has packed lunches and Megan who eats school dinners. By home time, Danny has a lot less focus and energy than his friend - something that many school children experience every day. Research by the School Food Trust* has shown that pupils are more alert and over three times more likely to pay attention in class if they eat a healthy meal at lunchtime whereas, a study of lunch boxes by Leeds University found that just one in 100 packed meals from home offered the same nutritional value as a school dinner. This is reflected in the packed lunches which typically included a sandwich, crisps, a chocolate bar, cake and a yogurt. Whereas children having school dinners had a choice of three different meals each day followed up with a home-cooked dessert. Rumble-Tum! is being given out free in City Catering Southampton’s infant and primary schools during the next few weeks. Within the book, there’s a colouring competition for children aged 4 -6 to win catering for their next birthday party. They can submit their entry by asking an adult to share it with City Catering Southampton on its Facebook page. There’s more information about school dinners from City Catering Southampton, as well as recipes families can try for themselves at www.citycateringsouthampton.co.uk.

Give your childs Maths a boost with Maths Club Southampton based Maths teacher Caroline Cutress has invented a unique way of giving children extra support at home. With 15 years’ teaching experience she has created a correspondence course that is tailor-made to each child, bursting with puzzles and games which gradually guide the student through a National Curriculum Maths topic. There are prizes for the best work and parents only have to commit to one month at a time and parental feedback has indicated that children really enjoy the packs and can see the improvements in their school work. For more information contact Caroline on 023 8034 1776, email: cc@boostmaths.co.uk or visit boostmaths.co.uk

New recommendations for police checks for those working with children Children’s charity the NSPCC has recommended that all self-employed tutors who work with children should be legally required to undergo a criminal record check. At the moment, there is no legal requirement for tutors to have Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, although many choose to do so voluntarily. Whilst all school teachers must have DBS checks, there is currently no requirement for private tutors to do the same. You can see more about this at nspcc.org.uk

Independent School Autumn Open Day Dates Here is our guide to local independent school open days in Winchester, Eastleigh, Southampton, Romsey, Lymington, Fair Oak and surrounding areas during September and October. Don’t forget to call or check with the School before you set off. Hordle Walhampton, Lymington Day & Boarding School, 2 – 13 years Open morning, Friday 14th October Hampshire Colleigate School, Romsey Day & Boarding School, 2 – 18 years Saturday 17 September 9am-12 noon Thursday 10 November 9am-12 noon Stroud School, Romsey Preparatory School to King Edward VI, Southampton, 4 – 12 years Call 01794 513231 to make an appointment to visit the school

Families Hampshire West

King Edward VI School, Southampton Day School 11 – 18 years Open Evening Friday 7th October 6.30 – 9pm St Mary’s College + Charlton House Nursery, Southampton Day School 3 – 16 years Charlton House Nursery Open Week 19th – 23rd September, 10.30am – 2.30pm

Prince’s Mead School, Winchester Day Prep School, 4 – 11 years Open afternoon, Friday 14th October, 1.30pm – 4pm

Don’t forget to s you saw th ay e advertise m d in Families

St Swithun’s School, Winchester Day & Boarding School, 3 – 18 years Open Day Friday 11 November, 1.30pm

St Mary’s College Open Evening Monday 19th September 6.30pm – 9.30pm Open Week 20th – 23rd September 10am – 12 noon

The Pilgrims’ School, Winchester Day and Boarding School for boys 4 – 13 years Open Morning Saturday 15th October

The Gregg School, Southampton Day School 11-16 years Open Evening Wednesday 5th October, 5.30pm

Twyford School, Winchester Day & Boarding School, 3 – 13 years Call 01962 712269 to make an appointment to visit the school.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families education

The role of play and health Katrina Bottle, a Nurse at the Sheiling Ringwood School explains about play and health at School. Play allows us all to explore our world and surroundings. Attending health appointments and going to strange places can be a worrying time for children and their families. It can become a stressful event for all involved and can have a negative impact on how the child copes in the future at these appointments or with health professionals. To experience the environment before the actual appointment can help children become familiar with sounds and smells whilst allowing them time to feel safe and relaxed without any pressures. Exploratory and role play with stethoscopes, bandages and fun plasters is a useful tool to help children understand what they are used for and allows them to become accustomed to strange objects. Stories about going to appointments can also help children to understand what is to be expected and provides the child time to prepare and understand. The use of distraction and rewards are always invaluable. The Sheiling Ringwood is based on the Dorset and Hampshire border and provides a rich, enabling and therapeutic learning environment for students aged 6-25 who have a special educational need, specialising in autism and communication difficulties, severe and complex learning disabilities and challenging behaviour. Visit the website for more information, www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk

RE AD IN GC HE ST

What is Synthetic Phonics all about? Learning to read using phonics isn’t a new concept, but in the past, it has been used in combination with other methods, such as ‘look and say’ and predicting words based on pictures or context. At school, children quickly become familiar with ‘phonemes’ (sounds) and ‘graphemes’ (ways of writing down the sounds). In some languages, learning phonics is easy because each phoneme has just one grapheme to represent it. In the English language however, there are 44 phonemes, 120 graphemes and just 26 letters. The most important thing to get right when helping your child learn phonemes at home is to pronounce them correctly. This might seem obvious, but your child should learn to say the sound at the beginning of ‘mat’ as ‘mm’ sound rather than ‘muh’. There are lots of websites to help with letter sound pronunciation, such as www. oxfordowl.co.uk.

A Camphill, School, College and Children’s Home providing a theraputic environment inspired by Rudolf Steiner for children and young adults with severe, complex and moderate learning difficulties and disabilities

The more you can do at home to help children recognise and say letter sounds, the better. The speedier children become at recognising letter sounds, the easier it becomes to blend them together and learn to read. Using phoneme flashcards can be a helpful way to introduce the sounds. These can bought or homemade. Play as many games as you can to reinforce the sounds such as; Phonics tray games, I-spy and Magnetic letters. As soon as your child has learned the first few sounds, they can start to read. There are quite a few decodable reading schemes available, such as Phonics Bug, Floppy’s Phonics, Big Cat Phonics, Yellow Door Phonics, which are all stocked by Reading Chest. For more information and to access a wide range of phonics reading schemes and others visit ReadingChest.co.uk. September-October 2016

Call Admissions on 01425 477488

www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

Families education

Getting your child into a good routine By Sally J Hall

As we get into the autumn and winter school term, it can be difficult to cope with changing weather and dull days. The long evenings of summer are over, the nights draw in and the mornings are dark. Getting your child settled into a good routine is essential if you are going to ensure they get enough sleep and are able to get up on time for school without too much effort and moaning.

Exercise is your best friend - Even if the weather is dreadful, try to make sure that your kids have some exercise every day. Not only will it help keep them fit and healthy but it also helps them to get a good night’s sleep. The best time is just after school, when it’s still light and you can take them to the playground or let them loose in the garden. Then it’s time for homework, dinner, bath and bed.

The new term is here, and the kids are back into the swing of long days of learning, burning through their energy reserves with gusto. All without your watchful eye on their blood-sugar levels and ability to focus. More often than we’d like, our kids come home from school on their last legs. The whining starts at pick-up, and carries on right through ‘til tea, with repeated requests for sugary treats… The after-school grumps come when levels of blood glucose (which fuels the brain) dip, and adrenaline takes over. Concentration, cognitive function, mood, behaviour, and energy levels are all affected. The problem could be the contents of your children’s lunchboxes. Just 1% of them meet the same nutritional standard as a hot school dinner.

Plan your mornings - Most parents would agree; mornings are bad times! Everyone is tired and cranky and if you’re not careful, it can descend into chaos. So having a routine that is followed every school day can help immensely. Set an alarm for 15 minutes before you need to get the kids up and get yourself together in that time. Whether it’s that first cup of tea, a shower or choosing what to wear, make sure you have time for you first - and everything else will go that bit more smoothly. Then it’s time to get the kids up and for them to follow their routine, too. Avoid any electronic stimulation in the morning, so ban games, X-Boxes and the TV, as time can slip away when they are distracted.

Opt for high fibre - Go for whole-grain bread (the ones with bits) in lunchboxes. Wholegrain tortillas/wraps are a good alternative, as are high-fibre fruits like peaches and mango. Carrots with the skin on are a winner too, with a pot of humus on the side for dipping. Use biscuit cutters to make cucumber stars, red-pepper hearts, or carrot bunnies. Or whip up a batch of savoury muffins — cheese and broccoli are surprisingly delicious!

Be prepared - Getting things prepared the night before can help

Top up the protein - Protein provides long-lasting energy,

Have rules - Make sure there are rules for where things are put

Minimise sugary snacks - Instead of chocolate or cake,

immensely with the morning rush, so prepare lunchboxes and get breakfast things out the night before.

when your kids arrive home each day. Let them know that they can’t just dump their gear anywhere! Those school bags, shoes and coats must go in a specific place so that there is no frantic searching in the morning, with everyone getting frustrated. Sticking to this routine makes for a happier family.

Make sure they know their routine too - Having a planner on view is a great way to avoid missing tutoring sessions, music lessons and play dates. A big calendar on the fridge means everyone can see what’s happening and when.

Why routines work - Children respond really well to a routine so you’ll thank yourself when they adapt to doing the right things at the right time each day. Have breakfast and dinner at set times, bedtime must be absolutely set in stone and homework should have appointed times too. Giving your kids too much choice over their own routine just leads to their spending too long on games or play and not enough for homework and helping with chores. Sally J Hall is a writer and editor who has written for all the main parenting titles as well as The Independent and The Mail. She is author of Eco Baby and contributing author to Watch My Baby Grow (Dorling Kindersley).

How to avoid the afterschool grumps

Families Hampshire West

Top tips to banish the after-school grumps

keeping them fuller for longer at school. So add as much protein to lunchboxes as you can: lean meat, cheese, fish, and eggs. homemade granola bars are not only exceptionally high in fibre (containing oats, wholemeal flour, dried fruit and seeds) but by using honey you stay low on refined sugar, too. An easier choice is Greek yoghurt with added frozen berries (instead of expensive kids’ brands); they’re low in fructose and cost a fraction of fresh – all the goodness, and defrosted by lunchtime.

Opt for school dinners - The absolute best way to avoid the after-school grumps is to opt for school dinners. Children who do so are up to 18% more likely to be ‘on task’ in the afternoon than their packed-lunch friends. Why? More veg, fruit, fibre, protein, water, and less sugar in their lunches. Meals are meticulously planned against National School Food Standards, to ensure energy and nutrient levels are just right, keeping kids on good form — in class and at home . No more grumps and less lunchbox hassle for you, too. Children in year R, 1, and 2, school meals are free and for year 3s upwards, it’s less than the cost of a take-out coffee. Speak to your school office to sign up. Call City Catering Southampton on 02380 332226 or visit www. citycateringsouthampton.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

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My child hates school what can I do?

Not all children skip happily through the school gates each day. If yours isn’t keen on heading into the classroom, here’s what you can do…

Try to keep everyone calm

Mornings can be fraught if your child has developed a school aversion but it’s important to at least try and all remain calm (easier said than done we know, especially if you’re under pressure from teachers to be punctual). If your little one starts to associate mornings with being told off and stressed, it could add to their anxieties.

It might just be a phase

Many children have a few days now and then when they’re not keen on going to school, sometimes for no obvious reason. If your instincts and chats with your child indicate the situation isn’t serious, try to ride things out without too much fuss. By not making this into a big issue, it might resolve itself – this is especially important for children who crave attention. Meanwhile if you’re sure they’re just ‘trying it on’ - perhaps they fancy a day watching films on the sofa (don’t we all sometimes…) - stand firm and make it clear that attending school is non-negotiable.

Fake illnesses can be a headache…

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Mysterious maladies are a common manifestation of not wanting to go to school; although it can be annoyingly difficult to decipher whether kids are crying wolf or actually ill. If it could be the former, threatening a trip to the doctors/ call to NHS Direct will usually either get illness fibbers to confess, or provide a miracle cure.

Consider the potential causes

Work on getting your child to open up when it’s not the ‘heat of the moment’. So not when you’re late for school and they’re in tears. If they won’t talk to you, perhaps they will do so with someone else, such as their grandparents, or an aunt or uncle. Common reasons for school aversion include bullying/ friendship problems, boredom or even learning difficulties.

HS TRC A M BOIOG IE TBALL PA T MBER

GIVE SOMEONE SPECIAL

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Meet with their teacher

Have a chat with their teacher to identify and work on any underlying issues going on in the classroom, playground or at home. They’ll probably have prior experience of all this, can provide extra reassurance or support for your child and you can carve out an action plan together.

Still struggling?

Further support for severe cases of school refusal could be available via your GP who might make a referral to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) or a private psychologist. By Liat Hughes Joshi

Families Hampshire West

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Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink gets a complete make-over, the most striking of which is its brand new clear-span roof. With open sides and great views of the Cathedral and sky above skaters can enjoy all the atmosphere of an outdoor rink but all the comfort and convenience of an indoor!

ICE RINK Friday 18 November 2016 – Monday 2 January 2017 Session times: 10am – 8.45pm (last session starts 7.45pm) Tickets, including free skate hire: Other price options available for groups.

£10.95 adult £8.95 child aged 8–18 £6.50 child aged 4–7 £35.00 family (2+2)

NEW! CHILDREN’S PARTY PACKAGES Pre-bookable party packages combining skating with food and drink offers are now available via the Cathedral Box Office. Available at all times for children aged 4 and above and at allocated times for children aged 2–3 years.

CHRISTMAS MARKET Friday 18 November – Tuesday 20 December 10am – 6.30pm, Sun – Wed, 10am – 7.30pm, Thu – Sat Book online at www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/ice-rink or call 01 962 857 276

September-October 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

Families clubs & classes

The benefits of after school clubs and classes F 3 - or a 5 y ge ea s rs

Highly interactive classes to help your little learning bud grow Do you want to give your child a head start for school or simply help your pre-schooler work towards their early learning goals in a fun and supportive environment? Our classes are run by a qualified primary teacher and will be available across Southampton and surrounding areas. For more information about our classes starting in September email: learningbudsuk@gmail.com

Give your childs Maths a boost with our exciting new MATHS CLUB

Our Maths Club is an exciting and original correspondence course for 6 - 11 year olds. Monthly puzzle worksheets tailor-made for your child. Only £6.50, prizes for best effort. For more details call 02380 341 776

www.boostmaths.co.uk

Breastfeeding Support Group La Leche League Southampton Mondays 10am-12pm (term time only) St James’ Road Methodist Church St James’ Road, Shirley Southampton, SO15 5HE

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www.LLLSouthampton.org.uk

Families Hampshire West

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. From ballet to basketball and art to archery, there’s an after school activity out there for every child. And the best thing about them is they’re brilliant for all sorts of reasons – not just learning a new skill. For a start, after school clubs give kids the chance to let off steam outside of the classroom. When you consider that in many countries around the world, kids don’t even start school until 6 or 7 years old, a full day in the classroom for youngsters can be a big ask. That’s why an alternative to textbook learning can be hugely rewarding. 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. However, if you’re on the lookout for team building clubs with a less competitive edge, you could consider Brownies and Scouts – kids love them! Meanwhile, learning a musical instrument is ideal for discovering the art of practice, patience and persistence. Drama clubs are perfect for shy kids who learn to find their voice singing and acting alongside others, while ballet and dance is suited for kids to learn discipline and self-expression. Don’t forget the fun factor!

The list is endless. There are clubs for almost anything you can imagine. Archery, chess, horse riding, computer clubs, film making and even circus skills are all proving popular alongside the more traditional arts and crafts, swimming, tennis and Kung Fu. 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. Why not try some of our local clubs and classes listed below or visit familiesonline. co.uk for a full list of clubs and classes in the area.

ACTIVE CLUBS Rugbytots South Hampshire Weekly play sessions for ages 2 - 7. Classes run across Hampshire. 0345 313 3244 southhtans@rugbytots.co.uk Goals Southampton After school coaching for ages 5 - 15 in Millbrook, Southampton. 02380 510 666 southampton@goalsfootball.co.uk Little Kickers Football training for ages 18 months - 7 years. 07896 009651 tdarling@littlekickers.co.uk Team Spirit 4 Sport Variety of after school clubs for all ages 02380 658 636 sayhi@teamspirit4sport.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families clubs & classes

Maths Club Boost Maths Tuition Tuition and correspondence Maths course using puzzles and worksheets for ages 6 - 11. 02380 341 776 cc@boostmaths.co.uk Fleet Tutors Private home tutoring for all ages. 0845 644 5452

Why running may be the best sport for your child By Sally J Hall Pupils at a school in Stirling run a mile every day and the benefits were seen almost immediately; kids were more energised, attentive, had improved concentration and better behavior. But, could running be the sport of choice for your child?

Why is running great for kids?

DANCE AND DRAMA DM Dance Lessons for ages 3 - 16 years 02380 554 192 info@dmdancecentre.co.uk Stagecoach Singing, dancing and acting for ages 4 - 18. Southampton and Eastleigh 01962 771 024 southampton@stagecoach.co.uk

Totton 02380 422488 totton@stagecoach.co.uk Winchester 01794 390 601 winchester@stagecoach.co.uk Perform Drama, dance and singing workshops for ages 4 - 12 in Southampton, Winchester, Lymington and Romsey 0207 255 9120 enquiries@perform.org.uk

Running comes naturally to children - just look around a playground. It also forms a number of games – playing “It”, running races etc.

Entry level

You don’t need much equipment but you must invest in a good pair of running shoes, fitted by an expert. Your child’s feet are still growing and changing, so restricting them and having inadequate support can lead to injury and long-term problems.

How to get started

Download a programme like Couch to 5K or Athletics 365, start with a short run and work up to longer distances. Kids can join in with the ParkRun activities and some offer a junior version, with a two kilometer distance.

For a comprehensive guide to clubs and classes in South West Hampshire visit our website Our online directory covers clubs and classes in Southampton, Winchester, The New Forest, Eastleigh, Romsey, Chandler’s Ford, Ringwood, Hedge End, West End, Burseldon, Hamble, Colden Common, Sutton Scotney, Fair Oak, Totton and all the areas inbetween. Do you run clubs and classes? why not upload your own business for free! Or add a premium listing for just £15.

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MAKE YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENT MORE FUN!

DISCOVER RUGBYTOTS

Our dynamic weekly play sessions enable boys and girls aged 2–7 to develop their social and physical skills in a fun, positive environment. For more details, just call or email:

0345 313 3244

Warm up and warm down

Supporting their body

Start with an injury-avoiding warmup session: • • •

Make sure your child eats well and is well hydrated. A balanced diet with plenty of protein, fruit and vegetables will help them. Make sure they have water frequently and avoid sugary energy drinks.

Walk briskly for five minutes Jog slowly, speed up gradually, then walk and shake out your legs Skip, do high steps and skip sideways

Things to be aware of

Warm down with a walk to encourage blood to return to resting flow, then follow with gentle stretches. Have a look at running websites for tips on the best warm-up and cool down routines.

Fringe benefits

Running can also help with other sports such as football and rugby, allowing your child to concentrate on skills and technique.

September-October 2016

•

Keep it fun

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Don’t time them

•

Make sure your child gets plenty of rest

•

Build up gradually

•

Encourage them to slow down when tired

Singing, dancing and acting classes for 4 - 18 year olds, where students learn to embrace life with creativity and courage

Find out more today: SOUTHAMPTON AND EASTLEIGH 01962 771024 southampton@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/southampton TOTTON 02380 422488 totton@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/totton WINCHESTER 01794 390601 winchester@stagecoach.co.uk stagecoach.co.uk/winchester

™

The world’s favourite rugby play programme

Nobody should run with an injury

BE GOOD AT BEING YOURSELF

southhants@rugbytots.co.uk

rugbytots.co.uk

•

Creative Courage For Life

Stagecoach Theatre Arts Schools are operated under franchise and are independently owned by their Principals. Stagecoach is a registered trademark of Stagecoach Theatre Arts Ltd.

TUITION AND LEARNING

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What’s on

September & October Your guide to family events this September and October. Don’t forget to check with the venue before setting off just in case times or prices have changed since we went to print.

Visit our website for inspirational ideas for fun days out near you www.familiesonline.co.uk Until 25 September Marwell’s Zany Zebras Trail Marwell Zoo Colden Common, SO21 1JH 10am – 5pm Explore the park to find clusters of miniature zebras all inspired and created by artists who have designed an equivalent large sculpture in Southampton city centre. Download the Marwell’s Zany Zebras app and tick all the clusters off as you go round. You can use this to follow the trail in Southampton too. 3, 10, 17 & 24 September LEt’s Go Construction Club Winchester Discovery Centre Jewry Street, Winchester, SO23 8SB Every Saturday, 2 – 4pm/ free Do you love making things using construction bricks? All budding builders, aged 5 and above are very welcome to drop in and join in the fun! Duplo and colouring is also available for under 5s. Lego Club meets weekly on Saturdays between 2pm and 4pm. No need to book, just come along. 3 – 4 September Day out with Thomas Eastleigh Lakeside Country Park, Eastleigh, SO50 5PE Unlimited Rides on all our trains (until 4:30pm), 2 Magic shows, Imagination Station with Dressing up box, colouring, games and toys, Sing a long with the Fat Controller. Interactive story time with The Fat Controller, Help The Fat Controller give Thomas, Henry and Gordon water throughout the day. Competition draw daily. Punch and Judy Show. Balloon modeller on site. 4 September Steamship Shieldhall cruise SS Sheildhall, Berth 48, Dock Gate 4, Southampton, SO14 3QN 3pm - 6pm/ Adults £27.50; children £10; family £65 Sail to the end of Southampton Water where it meets the Solent and then get close to the departing cruise ships Arcadia and Navigator of the Seas. 8, 15, 22 & 29 September Rhyme Time Winchester Discovery Centre Jewry Street,SO23 8SB Thursdays 9:45am and 11am Musical fun for babies and toddlers at Winchester Discovery Centre. Thirty minutes of songs, rhymes, rhythm and actions to get your

Families Hampshire West

little ones moving and singing. For babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers and their parent/guardian. 11 & 25 September Winchester Farmer’s Market Middle Brook Street SO23 8DQ It is officially the largest Farmers’ Market in the UK (95 stalls) and was voted best in the country by the Guardian Food Magazine. Visit the market to savour the finest local produce - from watercress to water buffalo steaks, organic product to ostrich meat. 10 September The Romsey Show Romsey, SO51 9LQ 8am - 6pm An action packed show for the whole family with thrilling displays, county standard livestock, equine and poultry competitions and more. Wide selection of exhibition stands, picnic area, band stand, Rural Industries Marquee, a fabulous Shopping Marquee, horticultural opportunities, glorious floral displays, jazz music, terrier racing, our marvelous Food Zone filled with local delights and our ever popular family dog show.

13, 20 & 27 September Toddler time in the barn at Hanger Farm Hanger Farm Arts Centre Aikman Lane, West Totton, Southampton, SO40 8FT, 10.30 - 11.30am / £1.50 per child Enjoy stories, songs, and simple crafts for little Hanger Farm-ers and their grown ups! Coffee, tea and squash provided. 13 & 14 September Little Foresters Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ 10am-11.30pm / £4.50 per child, 2+ Woodland groups for pre-school-

ers age 2+ with their parents. We play games, take part in seasonal activities, build dens, cook over campfires and read stories. Activities are repeated on each day in the same week but are different week to week. Booking is essential. Call 023 8068 3790. 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 & 30 September Twiglets Itchen Valley Country Park Southampton, SO30 3HQ Weekly woodland sessions for 3 and 4 year olds with parents. Campfires, dens, woodcraft, stories, games and more. Different every time and based around the seasons.

10 September The Big Pig Weekend Manor Farm and Country Park Pylands Lane, SO31 1BH 10am / normal farm admission Come and meet the Manor Farm pigs for a weekend of piggy fun, facts and activities. Learn all about pigs and piglets, then test your memory with our pig quiz. Drop into the farmhouse for a piggy craft activities and story time. 10 September The Blue Cross Fun Dog Show Hatch Grange Park, Chapel Road, SO30 3FE 11am - 3pm Come join us for our Fun Dog Show for a fun family day out with face painting, a dog show, refreshments, tombola and fundraising activities plus a prize draw to help raise funds for this amazing charity. 10 & 11 September Steamship Shieldhall Heritage Open Days Cruises SS Sheildhall, Berth 48, Dock Gate 4, SO14 3QN 4pm - 6pm Pass departing cruise ships as Southampton’s heritage steamship marks Heritage Open Days with late afternoon cruises. Sunday’s cruise will focus on Southampton’s Titanic connections.

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Families what’s on Thursday mornings 9.30am to 11.30am, Friday mornings 10am 12 noon. Booking required. Call 023 8068 3790. 16 – 25 September PSP Southampton Boatshow Mayflower Park, Southampton SO15 1HJ 10am – 6.30pm daily The biggest marine event hits the South Coast in September, so whether you’re an expert or only just finding your sea legs, PSP’s Southampton Boat Show is not to be missed. The show offers a fun-filled, action-packed day out, for families or individuals old and young! Stroll around the show’s spectacular marina, where you can see over 300 boats of all classes, shapes and sizes, whilst you soak up the last of the summer sun in beautiful surroundings. 21 – 25 September Solent Music Festival St Thomas Church, Lymington SO41 9ND Box Office 0800 4118881 The Solent Music Festival returns to Lymington’s St Thomas Church from 21-25th September with a worldclass line-up. 25 September Foam Fest Beaulieu Beaulieu National Motor Museum, Brockenhurst, SO42 7ZN A 3k fun run with hilarious foam filled obstacle course. Entry is £30 per person. Go to the website for further details and for time slots. There will be entertainment for the whole family. The festival runs from 9am until 4pm. 25 September Trains galore at The Brickworks Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Swanwick, Southampton, SO31 7HB 11am - 4pm / Adult: £6; Conc. £5; Child: £4; Family: £15 The September Steam-up Sunday will be helped by the addition of lots more trains – an extra treat for the train lovers amongst you. We will have the museum all steamed up and working plus the cafe and the museum itself. But on top there will be train displays and stalls selling train related bits and bobs. All the Trust Trains will be out on display or running.

25 – 30 September Eastleigh Film Festival The Point, Leigh Road, Eastleigh, SO50 9DE, Exceptional cult classics, international and British titles, survival epics and ingenious comedies to screen at a unique venue near you. We’ve handpicked exceptional cult classics, international and British titles, survival epics and ingenious comedies to screen at a unique venue near you. With a slice of family fun and enough added extras to transform your everyday viewing experience, Eastleigh Film Festival puts the excitement back into going to the movies. Family friendly films include Big at The Entertainer, Swan Shopping Centre (27th Sept), Night at the Museum at Eastleigh Museum (27th Sept), The Sound of Music at The Point (30th Sept), How to Train your Dragon at The Point (1st Oct). For a full line-up of screenings, ticket prices and venues visit www. eastleighfilmfestival.com 1 – 2 October Hampshire Harvest Weekend Winchester Cathedral, SO23 9LS 10am – 5pm A weekend of food and farming fun in the Cathedral Close. Plenty to do for all ages from buying and trying the delights of the Hampshire Fare members produce from within the county to meeting animals at the on-site farm experience. There’s horse-drawn carriage rides, falconry displays, a display of vintage tractors and children’s activities alongside live music and Morris dancing. A scarecrow competition will take place over the weekend and families, groups and individuals are invited to make their own scarecrow at home and bring it to the festival. 6, 13, 20 & 27 October Rhyme Time Winchester Discovery Centre Jewry Street, SO23 8SB Thursdays 9:45am and 11am Musical fun for babies and toddlers at Winchester Discovery Centre. Thirty minutes of songs, rhymes, rhythm and actions to get your little ones moving and singing. 9 & 30 October Winchester Farmer’s Market Middle Brook Street SO23 8DQ It is officially the largest Farmers’

Go Ape at Itchen Valley Country Park, Southampton this Autumn Go Ape’s exciting Tree Top Junior is new to Itchen Valley Country Park this year and is proving very popular. As with the older Tree Top Adventure course, there are height restrictions in place but a rough age guide for children to be able to climb the course is 6 – 10 years. There are a number of obstacles and a variety of crossings including the tricky ‘Walk the Plank!’ along with the brilliant Zip Wire finale. Children under 6 but over one metre must be accompanied on the course. Adults can supervise from the ground or on the course for children 6 – 10 years and over a metre. You can turn up on the day or book online goape.co.uk/days-out/southampton Market in the UK (95 stalls) and was voted best in the country by the Guardian Food Magazine. Visit the market to savour the finest local produce - from watercress to water buffalo steaks, organic product to ostrich meat. 14 – 17 October Zebratastic Hilton at the Ageas Bowl Southampton, SO30 3XH Following the summer Marwell’s Zany Zebras trails in Southampton City Centre and Marwell Zoo, all of the sculptures and miniatures will come together for a dramatic showcase. Join us at the Zebratastic Weekend at The Ageas Bowl to see them in their full glory! 18 October Marwell’s Zany Zebras Charity Fundraising Auction Hilton at the Ageas Bowl Southampton, SO30 3XH The large sculptures will be auctioned with proceeds going towards Marwell’s Wildlife’s conservation programmes with Grevy’s zebra and other wildlife in northern Kenya and to support communities living in the arid rangelands of northern Kenya. 22 October Construction Club Totton Library, Library Road, Totton, SO40 3RS 1.30pm & 3pm, ages 4+ This is the perfect outing for those children who just love their building bricks. Drop in. Parents should remain in the library during the activity, please. Donations of LEGO and other building bricks would be very welcome.

22 & 23 October Apple Harvest Weekend The National Trust, Winchester City Mil, Bridge Street, Winchester, SO23 0EJ 11am - 4pm Munch on all sorts of delicious heritage apple varieties, brought to the Mill by apple experts from nearby Sparsholt Agricultural College. Learn about rare but tasty regional varieties, and how to grow them. If you’re not sure what you’ve got growing at home, bring your own apples to be identified. 25 October Wild Play Days in the New Forest Foxbury New Forest Blackhill Road, East Wellow, Hampshire, SO51 6AQ 10.30am-1pm / Child £5, adult £2.50 Come to the ‘wilds’ of the New Forest for a day of outdoor adventures, including loads of ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges. To book call 01794 344020. 29 October Fireworks Spectacular at Beaulieu Beaulieu National Motor Museum, Brockenhurst, SO42 7ZN 7.30pm One of the largest firework displays in the south, choreographed to music with a range of entertainment for the whole family. With a Movie theme, visitors are encouraged to come in fancy dress for a chance to win a prize for the best outfit. Lots of family fun and games to be had.

WHAT'S O

Mon 24th October – Mon 31st October Pre-booking essential Tel: 02380 891203

• FIND THE ITEMS N . . . NEEDS TO MA THE WITCH • FOLLOW THE SP KE HER SPELL WITCHES WOOD OOKY TRAILS ROUND AN • VISIT THE HAUN D HORROR WOOD TO MAKE CREETEPYD WORKSHOP CRAFTS • ENJOY THE FA NG-TASTIC FOOD IN THE TEA ROOM S • ENTER OUR ‘CR EATE A MAGIC POTION’ COMP ETITION

BOOK NOW www.exbury.co.uk September-October 2016

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Spooky Halloween Half Term Events The best days out for Halloween fun and ghoulish adventures for your little monsters are taking place across Southampton, Winchester, the New Forest and surrounding areas this October half term. 21 - 31 October Combustion Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium, Winchester SO 10am - 5pm Adult: £12, Senior/Student: £9.60, Child: £8.40, Under 2 years go free Fire up their imagination this October half tem at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium. Exploring all things Combustion, the Science Centre will have an explosive activities programme, including exciting themed live shows and interactive presenter led activities. Pay a visit to the UK’s largest standalone planetarium, showcasing a variety of shows each week and if that wasn’t enough, visitors can also get hands-on with over 100 interactive exhibits, including the Science Centre’s Little Big Room and the Science of Sport Zone. All activities (excluding planetarium shows) are free with General Entry. 22 – 30 October Witch Craft Trail The National Trust, Mottisfont nr Romsey, SO51 0LP 10am -4pm / normal admission charge plus suggested donation of £1 Discover folklore, mystery and crafty activities for all your little witches and wizards, at Mottisfont’s Hallowe’en witch craft trail. 22 – 30 October Halloween Half Term Fun Finkley Down Farm Park Andover, SP11 6NF 10am to 6pm Family Fun and games with Halloween Magic and Mayhem Shows. Follow The Scooby Doo Trail and win a prize, pumpkin carving (extra charge) competitions at 1pm and 4pm for the best pumpkins. Visit the Spooky Stables and meet Finkley’s very own scary Witch and other walkabout characters. Every child that comes in Halloween fancy dress receives a special treat. Pony

Families Hampshire West

Rides and Sheep Racing take place every day. 22 – 30 October Boo at the Zoo Marwell Zoo Colden Common, SO21 1JH Come and join our spooky sisters for some creepy storytelling in their enchanted cave, take part in our pumpkin trail and learn how to fly at our broom flying lessons. Take part in our pumpkin carving competition. Dress up in your scariest costume and get a free Halloween cookie from Cafe Graze, Freaky face painting. Take part in our pumpkin trail around the zoo. Enjoy our devilish daily talks and learn something new about our animals.

how to start a fire safely, make popcorn and toast marshmallows too. Bushcraft sessions are fun, safe and educational with a bit of wild play like clambering over logs and getting muddy and learn new skills outdoors. (Please note that the 30th is the start of daylight savings, so don t forget your torch!). All children must be accompanied by an adult.

22 – 30 October Hallowe’en trail The National Trust, Hinton Ampner Bramdean, nr Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 0LA 10am - 4pm / Normal admission charge plus suggested donation £1 per trail. Come on a spooky adventure this half term. Join in the fun on Hinton Ampner’s Hallowe’en trail as you

22 – 30 October Pumpkin Carving Manydown Family Fun Scrapps Hill Farm, Basingstoke, RG23 8PU 10am to 4.30pm Come and get into the Halloween spirit with some pumpkin carving! Everything on site is included in the price. This is an outstanding day out for whole family where you can experience the farm and animal handling. 22 – 30 October Hallowe’en family trail The National Trust, Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, Winchester, SO23 0EJ 10am - 4pm Complete the Mill’s enchanting witches and wizards family trail and win a prize. 22 – 30 October Spooky Halloween Bushcraft Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA 10am - 12.30pm or 1.30pm - 4pm £12, ages 3 – 12 years. A Halloween session of fun, spooky songs and stories around the campfire in Ampfield Woods. Learn

29th - 30th OCTOBER IT’S TIME TO BOARD THE WIZARD EXPRESS!

www.watercressline.co.uk www.familiesonline.co.uk

Families what’s on search for clues along meandering paths into the nooks and crannies of this large garden. 23 October Halloween Steam Up at The Brickworks Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum, Swanwick, SO31 7HB 11am - 4pm, Adult: £6; Conc. £5; Child: £4; Family: £15 Usually the biggest Steam-up Sunday of the year. All our resident traction engines and road rollers will be home again after the summer away plus friends of their with yet more engines. Lots of activities for children plus additional specials including Halloween activities, craft stalls, cafe and live music. 24 - 31 October Hallo-Scream at Exbury Gardens Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway, Exbury, Southampton, SO45 1AZ Mystery comes to Exbury this October half term. Our Head Gardener has lost his head after falling foul of the Woodland Witches and he needs your help. Hop aboard The Flying Sorcerer from Exbury Central and help piece him back together and weed out the Witches’ evil spell. A frightfully good time awaits with a pumpkin trail and spell search before little ones get adventurous in the play area. Spooky goings-on in Witch’s Wood will lead older ones down a trail to the darkest paths to uncover phantom poems. Mr Eddy’s Tearooms will have a fang-tastic menu filled with tricks or treats, along with a Haunted Workshop with creepy crafts and face painting. The Flying Sorcerer will be running up to five times a day. Pre-booking is essential so visit www.exbury.co.uk to book. 25 & 27 October Hallowe’en pumpkin carving The National Trust Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, SO23 0EJ 11am – 3pm Bring your own pumpkin to the Mill and, with the help of our expert pumpkin carvers, create a super scary jack-o’ lantern 25 – 28 October Pumpkin Carving at Hillier Gardens Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Jermyns Lane, Ampfield, Romsey, SO51 0QA No booking required. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 1pm 3.30pm / £3 per child.

25 October Wild Play Days in the New Forest Foxbury New Forest Blackhill Road, East Wellow, Hampshire, SO51 6AQ To book call 01794 344020 10.30am 1pm. Child £5, adult £2.50 Come to the ‘wilds’ of the New Forest for a day of outdoor adventures, including loads of ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ challenges. At our special New Forest basecamp at Foxbury, you’ll be able to have a go at den building and marshmallow toasting as well as wild art-making.

29 & 30 October Wizard Weekend The Watercress Line, Alresford, SO24 9JG Watch the Watercress Line transform in to a place of magic and mischief on Halloween! Take unlimited rides on the Wizard Express steam train and walk in Harry Potter’s footsteps over the famous railway footbridge where he received his Hogwarts Express ticket in the film and take a selfie! Come dressed as a witch, wizard or Halloween spook and find out about all things magical! Look up high and watch an owl display

or even hold one on your arm*, be brave and touch some hairy, scary, creepy crawlies, marvel at a haunting magic show, make and fly on a witches broomstick and get your face painted into something scary! (extra charges may apply for some activities). Don’t forget to say you saw these advertised in Families Hampshire West Magazine

28 October Mexican Day of the Dead Top of the Town Basingstoke 12 noon - 8pm Come along to Basingstoke’s free alternative Halloween celebration inspired by the traditional Mexican festival known as Dia de los Muertos. Join in the family friendly activities during the afternoon including face painting, storytelling and craft workshops. Come back later to browse the beautifully illuminated night market and street food stalls or watch the town come alive with music and performers at the Mexican-themed evening party parade. 28 October Halloween Storytelling The National Trust Winchester City Mill, Bridge Street, Winchester, SO23 0EJ 10.30am – 4pm Settle down inside this ancient mill and listen to hair-raising tales of witches and beasties with Chris Bennett, storyteller extraordinaire. 28 - 29 October Halloween Party Jungle Jeans West Quay Road, Southampton SO15 1GZ 6-8pm Jungle Jeans will be hosting two Halloween parties this October for children up to 12 years. Featuring Southampton Reptile Centre where you can get up close with some real creepy crawlies, snakes and lizards. Join in with the fun and take part in their competitions, games, crazy tattoos and spooky disco. There will be lot of tricks and plenty of treats at Jungle Jeans on 28th & 29th October from 6-8pm. Call for more details or visit www.junglejeans.co.uk

Fire up their imagination this

October half term

www.familiesonline.co.uk Inspirational ideas for fun days out near you

● Special ‘combustion’ themed live shows ● Daily interactive presenter-led activities ● 100 + hands-on exhibits ● All free with general entry

Find out more and plan your visit at

winchestersciencecentre.org September-October 2016

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WHAT’S ON AT THE THEATRE

28 - 29 October The Emperor’s New Clothes Nuffield Theatre Box Office: 023 8067 1771 www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk Following sell out performances of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Stuff and Nonsense return to Nuffield with their latest production. Inspired by The Muppets, Danny Kaye and good old family movies, this romp through a classic, eccentric tale tells the story of an Emperor who loves clothes more than anything. But there is a problem… Despite a wardrobe the size of Paris he’s run out of outfits and it is his birthday tomorrow! He hasn’t got a stitch to wear! When two ‘designers’ come to town with a promise to create him an outfit that’s “never been seen before”, our eccentric Emperor doesn’t quite realise the spectacle he is about to make. Populated with puppets, music and song, this inventive and energetic production is told in true Stuff and Nonsense style; with unending energy, great storytelling and, as always, a show for all the family.

Underneath a Magical Moon at The Berry Theatre

The Berry Theatre Wildern Lane, Hedge End, Southampton SO30 4EJ Box Office 023 8065 2333 www.theberrytheatre.co.uk Saturday 17 September Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company presents The Elves and the Shoemaker £8 / £6 children plus family offers 11am & 2pm/ Ages 3+ Sat in his kitchen workshop, Sam Lacey makes terrible shows and tries to sell them online. They are so bad that no one really wants them, not even his neighbour. Then one night, two tiny visitors climb in through the window and start cutting and stitching and gluing… An up-to-date re-telling of everyone’s favourite story with puppetry and surprises aplenty. Saturday 24 September Saturday 22 & 27 October Saturday Storytime £3 adults / £3 children Ages 3-7 Join us on Saturday mornings and step into our enchanted storytelling wood…Our musical storytellers Kate the Hedgehog and Craig the Fox along with a host of woodland friends, delight families with their fantastical tales, sing-along-songs and joyful games. Saturday 8 October MONSTRO Theatre presents Bookstory £8 / £6 children plus family offers 11am & 2pm. Ages 7+ All the books are happy in Brian’s busy library. Thriller or Textbook, History or Romance – they all love to be borrowed. But one day Brian goes all quiet. And so does his library. The books had better stiffen their spines, because to save the library they may have to check themselves out. A new puppet musical telling the story of the story in the digital age. Monday 24 October tutti frutti and York Theatre Royal present Underneath a Magical Moon £8 / £6 children plus family offers 2pm. Ages 3+ Through her open window Wendy

Families Hampshire West

anyone who will listen.

Darling gazes out at the night sky dreaming of blue lagoons, magical moons and the stories that she can tell. But tonight, like no other, has magic in the air. A sparkling new production with exquisite music, enthralling movement and a sprinkle of tutti frutti magic.

Imagine his surprise when he swaps his cow for some magic beans and starts to hear a whispering in the breeze and a giant rumble in the sky ...Charming and inventive with plenty of interaction, an enormous beanstalk, bags of gold and a giant that sniffs out small boys. Jack and the Beans Talk is a cautionary tale about what might happen if you throw things out of the window!

Saturday 12 November Goblin Theatre presents Penguin! Elephant! £8 / £6 children plus family offers 11am & 2pm. Ages 3+ A magical new show about celebrating differences for anyone who has ever waddled like a Penguin or stomped like an Elephant.

Saturday 8 October Gingerbread Man 11am & 2pm, £6, Ages 3+ Bath Puppet Workshop proudly presents a brand new adaptation of this timeless classic. A pair of quarrelling bakers get the shock of their lives when their delicious gingerbread man leaps out of the oven and runs off down the road screaming “YIPPPEEEE!!!” Will they ever see him again? Will somebody else get their paws or claws on him first? How on earth do you catch a runaway biscuit? Bath Puppet Workshop presents a freshly baked version of this classic children’s story featuring dogs,

The Nuffield Theatre University Road, Southampton SO17 1TR Box Office 023 8067 1771 www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk Saturday 1 October Jack and the Beans Talk 11am & 2pm, £6 Jack lives on a small farm with his mum and very little to eat. He likes to talk to the birds, his cow and

Theatre for Families this AUTUMN

Telling the best stories

Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company presents

The Elves and the Shoemaker

Saturday 17th September 11am & 2pm

MONSTRO Theatre presents

Bookstory

Saturday 8th October 11am & 2pm

tutti frutti and York Theatre Royal present

Underneath a Magical Moon Monday 24th October 2pm

Goblin Theatre presents

Penguin! Elephant!

Saturday 12th November 11am & 2pm

023 8065 2333 www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

cats, goats, gorillas and even a confectionary obsessed velociraptor. The Gingerbread Man is packed full of action, comedy and pathos with songs and mechanical surprises galore. Saturday 15 October The Girl and The Giraffe

11am & 2pm, £6

One day whilst Girl is playing in her garden, she spots something peculiar on the other side of the fence. Climbing up as high as she can to get a better view, she is surprised when she comes face to face with... Giraffe! Charming puppetry, an enchanting soundscape and beautiful storytelling combine in this sensitive show about wellbeing and friendship, told from a child’s perspective.

Mayflower Theatre 22-26 Commercial Road, Southampton SO15 1GE Box Office 02380 711811 www.mayflower.org.uk Saturday 15 – Sunday 16 October Peppa Pig’s Surprise 10am, 1pm & 4pm Enjoy fun, loads of songs and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show. Peppa Pig’s Surprise promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers.

Theatre Royal Winchester Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8SB Box Office 01962 840 440 theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk Thursday 13 & Friday 14 October Pinocchio Jasmin Vardimon Company present a brand new adaptation of the classic tale, Pinocchio. Based on the original book by Collodi and performed by Vardimon ’s multi-talented dancers, Pinocchio will bring to life the famous marionette as he embarks on a fantastic journey to become a human boy.

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Issue 46 : (E)

Parents: Can your KIDS focus after lunch? School Dinners

Boost Concentration!

Prepared to National School Food Standards, with

delicious fresh, quality ingredients, our school FREE!! n dinners give your children all the energy and e r d l i for ch tion, essential nutrients they need to stay focused p in Rece r2 and â€˜on taskâ€™, right through until tea time. Y Yr1, & PLUS!! All children in Year 2, Year 1, and Year R get a freshly cooked school dinner, every day, FREE!!

For Year 3s up, a school meal costs less than a take-out coffee!

>> Speak to your school office for a current menu and sign up!

Parents: Lower grocery bills Fewer supermarket trips Less meal planning No more lunchbox hassle At least 2 of their 5-a-day

Pupils: Exciting choices, and fun, social time with friends Nutritionally balanced meals, made with topquality ingredients, handmade by pro cooks Increased learning ability

Got questions? Call City Catering Southampton: 02380 332226. We serve 1.7m nutritious school dinners in 47 Southampton schools each year. @CityDinners September-October 2016

Call us on 07789882467 to advertise your business with us

Families Hampshire West