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The really useful magazine for families with children aged 0-12

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Nov/Dec 2012 How to encourage reading The Power of Play The truth about sugar in our children’s diet

Hattie’s Nannies & Wedding Crèches

Godalming’s Premier Nanny Agency

01483 415 406

www.hattiesnannies.co.uk

Christmas

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Where to See Santa What’s on at Christmas Children’s Theatre & Pantos

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Behaviour, Consequences & Discipline Tues 13 Nov 8-10pm BOYS... What makes them tick? Wed 28 Nov 8-10pm Positive Power Tues 4 Dec 8-10pm

All courses held in Woking area.

Call 07974 855971 Early booking discounts!

Call your local Stagecoach to Enrol New Malden 020 85407791 Weybridge 01932 254333 Cheam/Worcester Park 020 83988106 Farnham 0845 055 6376 0844 800 9482 Liphook Richmond 020 89489288 Walton on Thames 01932 254333 Hinchley Wood 01932 254333 Godalming 01252 319 133 01483 235 216 Woking Twickenham 020 82246905 Hounslow 0845 0780804 01252 640 173 Guildford (Merrow) Isleworth 01932 886413 01737 216 794 Guildford North (Worplesdon) Kingston & Surbiton 020 88737140

www.stagecoach.co.uk

Covering Woking, Guildford, Farnborough, Farnham, Haslemere, Godalming, Cranleigh and surrounding areas

Rosina Wenham School of Dance

under the direction of The Susan Handy School of Dancing Classes in Eton, Datchet, Pyrford, Windsor and Woking

SPC Advert (95x60):Layout 2

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SPC Advert (95x60):Layout 2

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SportsCoach Guildford is now taking bookings for SportsCoach Guildford the Spring term is now taking bookings for the Spring term

Book a taster session Multi-sports at weekends FREE two week trial for 4-16 year olds Multi-sports at weekends for 4-16 year To book call: olds

01737 842710 www.sportscoach.co.uk/guildford 01306 886986 To book call:

www.sportscoach.co.uk/guildford

Early Sporties for 4-6 year olds Main School for 6-16 year olds

Sportscoach is ideal for girls and boys of all abilities!

Childcare vouchers accepted

TAP JAZZ In the heart of Guildford BALLET DRAMA SINGING MUSICAL THEATRE

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WEEKLY CLASSES  NATIONALLY RECOGNISED QUALIFICATIONS  PUBLIC PERFORMANCES  HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

BE WHO YOU WANT TO BE! Enjoy our classes in comedy and drama, musical theatre and film & television. Have a go at stage combat, clowning and even starring in your own music video! “In 2007 I founded my Academy of Performing Arts to re-create for new generations of children the happy times I experienced at the drama school I attended as a child. Since that time, many children have attended PQA classes in Comedy & Drama, Film & Television and Musical Theatre. At PQA, they learn skills that are applicable not just to a career in performing arts but in everyday life too. It builds confidence by the bucket load, creates bonds, teaches respect, and even how to listen. At PQA, children from the age of 4 to 18 years old can learn these skills in a safe, fun environment.” Pauline Quirke April 2012

PQA Guildford is enrolling now at St. Catherines, Bramley, Guildford GU5 0DF Academies run on Saturdays from 10am until 1pm To enrol your child and further information, Please visit us at www.pqacademy.com or call us now on 084567 32022

THE NEW GENERATION OF WEEKEND DRAMA SCHOOLS FOR AGES 4 TO 18 sportscoach sept 2012.indd 1

What’s in this issue I can’t believe it’s nearly Christmas and I’m putting together another Nov/Dec issue - always one of my favourites as there are such wonderful things on for families and children to enjoy over the festive period. In case you don’t want to think about Christmas just yet, we have some interesting articles including how to encourage your child to read and an eye opening article about how much hidden sugar your child might be consuming. Even if you aren’t thinking about Christmas now, do look at the activities and events you might like to go to as some things do get booked up very early. Happy Christmas!

4-5 News and Views 6-7 Health

We take a look at sugar in our children’s diet

The Power of Play Christmas Noticeboard Christmas Gifts Independent School Open Days & How to encourage reading 14-16 Where to See Santa 17-23 What’s On 8 9 10-11 12-13

17-20 20 Sarah Hatch, Editor

21-22

Next issue: January/February Ad booking deadline: 1st December If you would like to reach over 24,000 local families call Sarah on 01737 558898 or email editor@familiessurreywest.co.uk

Front cover: Cardigan from £8, Top (part of 3 pack) from £6, Jeans from £9, Boots from £12.50 and Hat from £4 by F&F

Activities, events, children’s workshops - by date Christmas Light Switch Ons, Christmas Holiday Sports Courses & Holiday Camps , Nearly New Sales Christmas Fairs, Activities for Adults, Children’s Theatre

Classifieds

Special Offers and Competitions

• Free hot oil treatment & head massage at Essensuals Guildford - page 6 • Win a £200 shopping spree with Polarn O. Pyret - page 9, and save 15% - page 19 • Win a Family ticket to Aladdin at The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre - page 10 • Save 10% at Magical Rooms Toy Shop - page 11 • Save £5 off tickets to the Family Day at Ascot Racecourse - page 14 • £2 off per person to Bocketts Farm from 5-30 November - page 17 Surrey West advertfor [130x87mm]_Layout 1 28/03/2012 • Families 10% early booking discount Theatrebugs’ workshops - page 19 17:27 Page 1

Registered charity:1093411

WEAR A HAT DAY Thursday 28 th March

2013

www.braintumourresearch.org

Providers of are quality childc n and educatio Come and see how we can support your child to learn and develop in the welcoming, friendly and spacious environments of our nurseries in Surrey. We would be pleased to show you our facilities and the range of services and activities we oﬀer at our nurseries at Haslemere, Ottershaw, Ripley, Woking and at Felcott Road and Manor Road, Walton-on-Thames. For the beneﬁts of a Toad Hall Nursery, a brochure or to arrange a visit please contact us at: Haslemere: 01428 654117 Email: Haslemere.nursery@toadhall-nursery.co.uk Ottershaw: 01932 874286 Email: ottershaw@toadhall-nursery.co.uk Ripley: 01483 222020 Email: ripley@toadhall-nursery.co.uk Woking: 01483 486116 Email: woking.nursery@toadhall-nursery.co.uk Felcott Road, Walton-on-Thames: 01932 252858 Email: walton@toadhall-nursery.co.uk Manor Road, Walton-on-Thames: 01932 226975 Email: manorroad@toadhall-nursery.co.uk www.toadhall-nursery.co.uk

Surrey West

News and Views New Pre-schoolers Craft Group Craft Monsters is a new children’s arts & crafts group for under fives which runs on Monday and Wednesday mornings in Frimley (St Peter’s Hall) and Woking (Brookwood Memorial Hall). It is run by two mums of small children who appreciate the effort and mess involved in doing craft activities at home and they take all that hassle out of it for you for just £4 per child. Each week’s sessions are packed full of exciting activities based around a weekly theme. Recent themes include Aliens, Autumn and Farms. At the end of each session, the children (and grown ups) are treated to refreshments, stories and songs based on the theme of the week whilst the paint and glue dries!

Busylizzy's festive family choir

The Bump, Birth & Baby Fair - Sunday 11th November

Busylizzy is delighted to launch Guildford's first family choir. In partnership with Community Vox's Anna Tabbush, rehearsals start on 9th November at 10am and will culminate in a special Christmas performance at G Live on 12th December. The choir is open to all Busylizzy members and their children and can be booked on their website.

This year’s Bump, Birth & Baby Fair is being held on Sun 11 November from 11am - 3pm at The Holiday Inn, Egerton Rd, Guildford.

In addition to the choir, Busylizzy's unique monthly membership for £40 entitles you and your family to come to any of our 25 different classes which will continue to run throughout the Christmas holidays - each one will have a special festive theme. For details see www.busylizzy.co.uk

Little Impressions will be offering castings on the day, there are FREE tasters/demos from Sing & Sign, Colic Workshops and more. £2 donation per family, with ALL proceeds to the Safe Delivery Trust (the charity behind the maternity unit at Royal Surrey County Hospital). No pre-registration or booking needed! For more information see www.bbbsurrey. co.uk or call 07900 676719.

Meet lots of local companies offering products and services to pregnant women and new parents in Surrey, demos and taster sessions, fantastic raffle prizes, goody bags and lots more...

Improvements at Santa Fir

Unlike many children’s groups Craft Monsters requires no subscriptions, so just turn up when you feel like it. For more details on what the Crafty Monsters are up to visit www.craftmonsters.co.uk

Are you sleep deprived? New nanny agency, Hushabye Nannies, has recently been set up by Caroline Brindley and Laura Hargrave and offers a range of services including sleep training, toddler taming and babysitting as well as nannies, night nannies, emergency cover and birth and postnatal doulas. Both Caroline and Laura trained as nannies at Norland College in 1997. Since then Laura has worked as a nanny and in a nursery and Caroline has worked as a nanny, childminder and doula. They both now have their own families and setting up an agency has always been something they have wanted to do. Caroline says “now that we are parents, we can understand the business from both perspectives - that of the parent and that of the nanny”. They also offer First aid courses for both childcare workers and for parents and families. For more information please see www.hushabyenannies.co.uk or call Caroline on 01483 825807.

Every girl deserves a pretty dress If you have a daughter, chances are she has plenty of pretty dresses to choose from, so spare a thought for the children growing up in poverty in countries like Malawi, Kenya, India, Uganda and Ghana who do not own a single one. If you have some basic sewing skills, there is a way you can make a difference with a charity called Dress A Girl Around the World which collects handmade dresses and arranges for them to be sent to projects in the relevant countries. The dresses are made out of new fabric or recycled pillowcases by sewing groups, schools, colleges and individuals across the UK, but more are needed. 1,170 dresses and 178 pairs of shorts have already been distributed to children. Dress A Girl Around the World is still looking for people to help make dresses. You don’t have to make a dress though, if you are handy with a sewing machine you can also make boys shorts, bags, hair bands and bracelets. There are plenty of tips on sewscrumptious.blogspot.com.

Julie, from Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm in Cranleigh, says “last year we were so busy that we have made some improvements to help people enjoy their visit. We have extended the car parking area and also have erected a ‘tree only’ pay station so that anyone not wishing to go into the Christmas shop can bypass the queues when paying for their tree”. Also at Santa Fir you can visit Santa in his grotto, post a letter to Santa, take a barrel train ride or heavy horse carriage ride, see the live reindeer and there’s complimentary hot berry juice! It can be found between Shamley Green & Cranleigh. www.Santafir.com

New Classes for Dynamic Tots Dynamic Tots offer half hour dance classes specially designed for boys and girls aged 2 – 5 years. The main focus of the classes is allowing the children to enjoy themselves whilst engaging in an active and creative class. Ballet Tots focuses on telling a story through dance as the class incorporates inspiring music, pictures and props. Alternatively, Street Tots is a highly energetic and fun dance class using exciting music that will get your tots moving to the beat. Both classes will improve your little ones rhythm, co–ordination, social and gross motor skills. In September, Dynamic Tots launched new classes in Burpham, Worplesdon, Pyrford, Cranleigh and Weybridge and in January they are launching classes in Walton on Thames, Godalming and Camberley! Please see www.dynamicperformingarts.co.uk for more information.

Girls Jewellery Making Parties a fun & rewarding time.... Necklaces Bookmarks Handbag Charms Call 07879 622720

www.pendantmoon.com CRB Checked

Surrey West

News and Views Get your school, nursery or workplace involved in Wear A Hat Day for Brain Tumour Research on Thursday 28th March 2013!

Business Mums Wanted

Join the fun on March 28th and help fund the fight against brain tumours. ‘Wear a Hat Day’ is a fun way of increasing awareness and getting people raising money for an often overlooked form of cancer. It’s a day every year that people are asked to wear a hat to raise awareness and funds for vital research into brain tumours. A day when people are encouraged to make donations in order to wear a hat to school, at work, at social events or even at home.

Successful local business is seeking five partners to work part time from home without compromising family commitments If you have a Managerial, Sales, Marketing, Recruitment or Self-Employed background, and you wish to develop a more balanced lifestyle around your families needs please call:

Katie 01737 766403 or 07909 681884

From sponsored silences to charity runs and school bake sales, educational facilities around the country are being encouraged to raise money in any way they can. Sue Farrington-Smith, Director of Brain Tumour Research, comments: “Brain tumour research receives less than 1% of national cancer research spending in the UK yet this deadly disease kills more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer so please get involved on March 28th 2013”.

New Parties from Razzle Dazzle

Distributor wanted!

Razzle Dazzle Cheerleading have recently introduced two new party types to those they offer - Street Dance and Hula Hooping! This is in addition to the Cheerleading parties they already run. The children will learn routines to their favourite tunes and then give a performance for the parents at the end of the party so they can see what they have achieved. You can also theme your party to your child’s favourite film or pop star - such as a High School Musical theme so they can dance to all the tunes from their favourite film! For more details please see razzledazzlecheerleading.com

We are looking for someone to deliver the Families magazine in the Woking, Chobham, Ottershaw and West Byfleet area. You would need access to a car and it would take around two school days to complete, every two months. The magazines are delivered to your home and then you would deliver the magazines to a list you are given. If you think you might be interested in doing this and earning a little extra money please contact Sarah on 01737 558898 or editor@familiessurreywest.co.uk

Handmade Silver Fingerprint Jewellery and Keepsakes Capturing your Children’s prints in pure silver

www.maisiemoojewellery.co.uk e. maisiemoojewellery@gmail.com m. 07788 425912

Mum & Baby Pilates Launches A new mum and baby beginners to improvers Pilates class is coming to Frensham in January 2013. Jacqui Halliwell is a CYQ and REPs accredited Pilates Instructor living in Lower Bourne with two young children of her own. She is keen to create a Pilates class in the area that will benefit both mum and baby, giving you and your baby fun one on one bonding time, whilst redeveloping those core muscles, essential to regaining your figure, strength and posture. There are limited places to keep the experience tailored to your individual needs post pregnancy. Reserve your place at www.pilatesmax.co.uk

New Music Course at The Music Works The Music Works in Milford has launched Yamaha’s flagship music programme - The Junior Music Course. Open to children starting between the ages of 4 and 5, The Junior Music Course is a comprehensive introduction to the world of music. Hourly lessons each week build a foundation for future musical study on any instrument – after two years children can read music and play the piano with both hands! Children experience singing, music reading and writing, playing the keyboard, ear training, and creating music. This programme is taught worldwide and is only available at four music schools in the UK. Other courses available include the Junior Step Fundamentals for 6/7 year olds and Play for Keeps for 7+ years olds. See www.themusicworks.co for details.

NEW FOR CHRISTMAS 2012!

The amazing Roll-Up Chalk Mat

Unlimited fun, unlimited creativity! The perfect Christmas present for a busy boy or girl from 3-7 years old, the Roll-Up Chalk Mat is a blackboard on one side, a wipe-clean placemat on the other and it rolls up so you can take it everywhere! Great for restaurants, trains, holidays and home! Available in pink or blue.

Naturally soft Organic Cotton

Special offer of £9.99 includes free chalk & delivery!

Clothes full of Character for Tots & Toddlers full of Fun! Comfortable a Practical a Adorable www.monkeyandbob.co.uk

Buy yours now on www.lesandlou.co.uk

Say you saw it in

Surrey West

Health Addictive, unwholesome and everywhere: The toxic truth about sugar in our children’s diet By Elisabeth Dolton

So you sent your child off to school this morning on a full bowl of cereal and some fresh orange juice. Thinking this is a good start to the day, you may have already given them over half their recommended daily allowance of sugar. This scenario is common across many families. Over the past 10 years the use of sugar in foods has undergone a transformation, resulting in us potentially providing a diet for our children that contains too much sugar than their bodies can cope with.

A silent revolution Essentially, the mass development of a cheap, highly sweet, glucose-fructose syrup, produced from surplus corn, started in the 70’s, and was soon pumped into every conceivable food: pizza, coleslaw, meat. It provides a "just baked" sheen on bread and cakes, makes everything sweeter, and helps to keep foods moist so extends shelf life from days to years. At the same time low fat foods were being embraced by dieters, so as fat was taken out of foods, sugar replaced it to maintain taste. Unsurprisingly, sugar consumption has trebled worldwide over the last 50 years, and this purified sugar (known as ‘added’ sugar) is now an alarmingly major part of the Western diet. As a result, the amount of sugar going into our bodies has been silently revolutionised.

Unavoidable UK guidelines recommend that added sugars shouldn’t make up more than around 50g a day, equivalent to ten teaspoons of sugar for adults and nine for five to ten-year-olds. Added sugar is now found in almost all processed foods and not just obviously sweet foods - glucose-fructose syrup is found in everyday products, such as cereal, salad dressing, sausages, making it easy to send our children over the recommended limit, sometimes with just one product.

Increasing addiction Moreover, recent research has been looking into a worrying trend that the more sugar we eat, the more we want, and concluding that the addictive nature of sugar for our children is much higher than previously thought. Added sugar dulls the brain’s mechanism that tells you to stop eating, by reducing activity in the brain’s anorexigenic oxytocin system that gives the body the ‘full’ feeling. Without this, our appetite becomes insatiable, making it very easy to overeat.

Children’s cuts only £10 for all children under 6 Monday-Friday!

If you book an appointment with Seth for November or December you’ll get a FREE Label.M Hot Oil Treatment at the basins as well as a relaxing head massage!!

To book call (01483) 301200 and quote “Families” 5 Dolphin House, 1/7 North Street, (below TGI’S) Guildford 01483 301200

Pop into the salon for a free Consultation

“Sugar is ubiquitous, and the problem with refined sugar as opposed to natural sugar,” says Tracey Harper, Nutritional Therapist, “is that this sugar is an empty food with the goodness striped away, so when eaten it actually robs the body of vital nutrients, resulting in a depleted immune system.” She goes on to explain that sugar feeds bad bacteria in the gut, the gut lining becomes exposed, so toxins can enter the blood stream, causing allergens to develop and other auto-immune deficiencies. Studies confirm this, showing that excess sugars cause a fifty-percent drop in the ability of white blood cells to fight off bacteria. The growing problem of obesity in the UK with 31% of children now classified as overweight and the rising incidence of Type 2 diabetes, once associated with old people, also points to the overconsumption of sugar in children’s daily diet. Excess sugar rots teeth and let’s not forget, poor memory, low moods and depression all have been linked to the over-consumption of sugar. The recognisable 'sugar high' you get after eating sugar resulting in more energy and improved mood is temporary. After some time, the body crashes, energy levels plummet, leaving lethargy and tiredness. Further effects can include hyperactivity in children, crankiness and eczema.

Surrey West

include natural and added sugar

»»A food with less than 5g ‘total sugars’ per

Reducing added sugar in your family’s diet »»Remember natural sugars are good - soak

apricots, whizz them in a blender, and use that to sweeten foods

»»Ensure every meal includes protein. Have

meat, fish, vegetable or salad with pasta or pizza, so your child is getting everything for the body to function properly

»»Eat from scratch. Eat real food not processed food – porridge with a dash of honey has everything a young child needs to start off the day

»»Make your own pasta sauce, stuffed with

Children’s »» Day Nursery

lots of pureed vegetables (carrots, peppers, greens.) Make a large batch then freeze in small portions Make smoothies using a hand blender and a jug. Add in a vegetable, e.g. avocado and strawberry. Cheaper and as good as any supermarket brand

»»Children eat what there is. Keep sugary

snacks and junk food out of the house, instead offer oat biscuits, hummus, chopped vegetables, Whole Earth peanut butter.

Children’s Day Nursery

Dance Open Day Mon 10 Dec 10am to 2pm

Perform

Act

Dynamic Tots offer energetic half hour dance classes for 2 - 5 year olds in Ballet and Street Tots. Come join the fun and magical adventure today. Classes take place in venues around Surrey.

Excellent quality Children’s Day Nursery FREE TRIAL AVAILABLE. combining traditional Call: 07753 985 314 Email: with info@dynamicperformingarts.co.uk loving care Visit: www.dynamicperformingarts.co.uk stimulating educational programme to provide Drama and Music Classes Positive Steps Day Nurseries a well balanced Hanover House, Cross Lanes, Guildford GU1 1UG environment for 01483 569112 www.positivestepsnurseries.co.uk your child. Excellent quality Children’s Excellent quality Day Nursery combining Children’s Day Nursery traditional loving care with combining traditional stimulating educational loving care with a programme to provide stimulating well balancededucational environment programme provide for your to child. a well balanced Children from 6 weeks to 5 years environment for 7.30am - 6.15pm withyour French, child.

Call 01628 623777

How to spot a high sugar food »»Look for ‘Total sugars’ on the label which 100g is classified as low, more than 15g per 100g is high

The dangers

Free hot oil treatment & head massage Essensuals Guildford are extremely proud of their Manager Seth Maunders, who has been one of the six stylists within Toni&Guy/ Essensuals to work on the 2013 window campaign for Sacha Mascolo-Tarbuck.

So, as we scratch our heads on how to get our kids to eat less sweets and exercise more, perhaps we also need to start looking more closely at what we are putting on their plates at meal and snack times.

www.positivestepsnurseries.co.uk

Health Check these out!! 1.5l bottle of Volvic Touch of Fruit Lemon and Lime – 16 ½ teaspoons of sugar McDonald’s milkshake - 16 teaspoons Orangina 500ml - 13 teaspoons Tesco Pure Orange Juice Smooth, 250ml - 6 teaspoons Dolmio Bolognese sauce, 500g - 6 teaspoons Serving of Kellogg’s Frosties - 4 teaspoons Two McVities Jaffa Cakes - 3 teaspoons Muller Light Strawberry yoghurt, 175g – 2 ½ teaspoons

Music classes for babies and young children!

Source: Dailymail.co.uk

Further information Thanks to Tracey Harper for her contribution to the article and great tips for reducing sugar in children’s diet - www.traceyharpernutrition.co.uk www.nhs.uk/livewell/goodfood/pages/sugars.aspx www.nhs.uk/livewell/goodfood/pages/food-labelling.aspx www.nhs.uk/change4life www.hungryforchange.tv/sugar-is-a-drug

First Aid Campaign from The British Red Cross The British Red Cross is launching the first UK-wide first aid campaign aimed at parents, in response to a survey showing that most parents don’t feel confident about what to do if their child were injured. In a survey, 96% of parents agree all parents should have basic first aid knowledge – but two thirds don’t feel confident, or worry they would do something wrong. For free first aid advice, videos and to sign-up to the First Aid Challenge, go to www.redcross.org.uk/firstaidchallenge. Signing up to the First Aid Challenge is free and you will receive information on how to deal with dayto-day mishaps and updates about free first aid demonstrations across the UK. Alternatively, if you prefer to keep a how-to hard-copy in the house, a brand new First Aid manual focussing on treatment for babies and children is available now, priced £10.99.

time of music Nur turing a life

To book your complimentary class in Byfleet, Goldsworth Park, Horsell, Ottershaw, Pryford and Woking, please call Alice on 01932 429240 or Email woking@monkeymusic.co.uk

Action songs and rhymes Music and movement Fun with percussion Musical games Since 1993 thousands of children across the UK have grown up with Monkey Music. Our unique teaching curriculum was written by classically trained musicians, and introduces music to very young children in a way they can easily understand and enjoy. Rock ‘n’ roll - from 3 months Heigh ho – from 12 months Jiggety jig – 2 & 3 year olds Ding dong – 3 & 4 year olds

87x60_annette:Layout 9 1/6/12 13:16 Page 1 Award. monkeymusic.com Winner of the Best National Pre School Activity

Local Nanny Agency, Hushabye Nannies, also run first aid courses for parents and childcare workers in Guildford, the next one is on 24th November. See www.hushabyenannies.co.uk or call 01483 825807.

For classes of pure MADness, join MAD Academy

New affordable botanical and organic children’s range Celebrity hair colourist Daniel Galvin Jr, has launched Dubble Trubble by Galvin & Galvin London, a collection of five pH balanced Hair & Body washes and a Detangling mist, all utilising organic botanical extracts. Free of harsh chemicals, parabens, mineral oils and SLS, Dubble Trubble comes in 5 different essences in the shampoo & bodywash – Watermelon, Strawberry, Bananaberry, Cherry Bomb and Cool Cumber, with the Detangling Spray in Cool Cucumber. For children from the age of 3 – 13, the sales of products will help raise money for the Prince’s Trust, with Daniel donating a total of £25,000 of the proceeds to the youth charity in the first 12 months. Available exclusively from Morrisons for only £2.50 for 200ml.

Classes in Woking, Byfleet, Addlestone and surrounding areas

Birthday Parties Too!

Call Annette on 01252 517670 or email: annette.joyce@madacademy.com

madacademy.com Music And Dance and a whole lot of fun!

Bug-hunting • Bark-rubbing• Singing • Stories • Nature Art All washed down with a hot chocolate around the log circle School Term Time - Wednesdays Fortnightly - 1.30 - 3pm We play come rain or shine so come prepared! All 1 - 4 year olds welcome. £3.50 per session. For dates and times or to reserve a space please email: kerrie.daunter@barfieldschool.com Barfield School, Guildford Road, Farnham, GU10 1PB • 01252 782271

Surrey West

Parenting

The Power of Play By Shani Blumenfeld

As adults we generally don’t take much notice of what children are doing when they are playing. In fact we may just be grateful for those moments when our children are occupied in play and there is finally some respite from demands on our attention. But if we do stop to watch our children playing, we see that it’s not ‘just playing’ – there is something magical, spontaneous, uninhibited, creative and rejuvenating happening. As Plato, the Ancient Greek Philosopher said “You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation”. Play is the ‘window’ into a child’s world. Play is a child’s natural, spontaneous way to explore the world and express themselves. It has long been recognized by educators and psychologists as vital to children’s development, helping them to grow physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Free play (unstructured) in particular, provides opportunities for children to play out and rehearse roles and feelings, try out new ideas, practice facing challenges, rethink experiences and work out solutions. Play also has the power to heal, especially when children have problems that are disrupting their lives and those around them. Children’s thoughts and emotions naturally come to the surface during play and it is a good way for children to find solutions to problems. It’s generally easier for children to make positive changes when they are playing and playing allows children to express feelings and anxieties that may be difficult to put into words.

Playful families

Music with Mummy Guildford

A fun introduction to music for the under 5’s Small friendly classes that encourage listening skills, language development and early social skills.

Or try Jolly Babies for 0-1 year olds Contact Rachael on 01276 489470 rachael@musicwithmummyguildford.co.uk www.musicwithmummyguildford.co.uk

Whilst play comes so naturally to children, as adults we have often lost the ability to play and joining children in their play doesn’t feel ‘comfortable’ as it requires putting aside our familiar ‘adult’ roles, letting go of our authority and realism for a while, and risk appearing (to the adult world only), silly. But research clearly shows that playing with our children has enormous benefits. It allows family members to relax and laugh together, we can change roles, bend the rules a bit, and go where the fun takes us. And kids just love it when parents step out of parental mode and join them as equals in play. Crucially, playing together can also bring parents and children closer and help to build warm and lasting relationships. Adults and children alike develop skills in talking and hearing each other; children gain a sense of security, self-confidence and a view of themselves as effective in the world; and it can even facilitate talking about problems through diversion and relaxation.

You don’t need any specialist skills or equipment to join your child’s play. Just give your undivided attention, watch and listen, comment occasionally on what you see and if you want to get involved allow your child to ‘direct’ you like a film director would an actor. Resist the temptation to teach, criticise/praise or guide the play (unless for safety reasons) as this will help your child express themselves without the anxiety of failure or judgement. And don’t worry – letting your child take charge in their play for a while isn’t going to turn them into ‘bossy’ children. It needn’t be timeconsuming either - just ten minutes a day of joint play will give your children the message that you are interested in them, that they are valuable and will help to strengthen your relationship.

Play Therapy – helping children & families feel better through the power of play All children encounter challenges in their life and most children manage to weather these emotional storms with the support of parents, carers, friends and family. However sometimes children experience problems with their feelings or behaviours that are harder to work out even with the support of those around them, and they may need additional help. Play Therapy is an effective way of helping children to work through muddled feelings or upsetting events that they haven't had the chance to sort out properly and that are disrupting their lives or the lives of those around them. Rather than having to talk about what is troubling them - as an adult might do in a counselling session - in Play Therapy children use play and expressive activities to communicate deeper feelings or worries that may be hard for them to put into words. Parents and carers may seek extra support from a Play Therapist when their child seems unduly sad, disruptive, rebellious, unable to cope or inattentive or when parents are concerned about their child's development, eating or sleeping patterns and how they are getting along with family, friends or at school. By Shani Blumenfeld, Registered Play Therapist, Manchester Play Therapy Tel: 07812 089 760 email: info@manchesterplaytherapy.co.uk

www.littlekickers.co.uk Approved football training for kids aged 18 months to 7 years

Rugbytots classes are now running in your area. To find your nearest, please visit www.rugbytots.co.uk or call us on 0845 313 3242

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Surrey West

Localclasses classesatataavenue venuenear near you you Local For Merrow, Fernhurst, Guildford and Godalming call Call 01753 831902

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Where learning’s a ball

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New clothes make any occasion extra special. The Polarn O. Pyret Christmas collection for newborn to age 12 years is now in stores and online (your nearest store is in House of Fraser, Guildford). As always, the clothes are geared towards children not just looking good, but feeling comfortable too. Cosy cotton PJ’s that will last until next Christmas Eve, a new party dress that can handle spills, or an extra cute outfit for Christmas Day. Enjoy the occasion PO.P style whatever you are planning for the holidays. Free gift wrapping is available at all Polarn O. Pyret stores. For your chances to win a £200 shopping spree enter your details at www.polarnopyret. co.uk/win by 10th of December. Terms and conditions apply. Winner will be notified via email on 11th December. And if you don’t win, you can use our 15% discount voucher on page 19!

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Christmas Tree!

Fir Christmas Tree Farm URN*Santa TURN* Santa Fir is on Guildford Road between Shamley Green TURN* and Cranleigh. For satnavs the postcode is GU5 0SQ 01483 271770 www.santafir.com Santa Fir is a great post or post orphone: phone: post or phone:

place to go for a fun morning or Please contact: 01483 825807/0208 3330952 afternoon to buy enquiries@hushabyenannies.co.uk your Christmas tree. www.hushabyenannies.co.uk As well as a huge selection of fresh home grown trees, you can also see Father booking Christmas in isis rn we will conclude that your your booking confirmed and advertisement urn we will conclude that confirmed and thatthat thethe advertisement urn we will conclude that your booking and advertisement his grotto (£2.50 peris confirmed Nativity services arethat aimed the specifically at If we are not of any copy changes return we publish as seen. are not advised any copy changes byby return will as seen. seen. a advised letter to Santaof in the special post box, children and are a we great way will ofpublish redressing the l.. IfIf we wechild), area post not advised of any copy changes by return we will publish as have go on a heavy horse and carriage ride (adult balance of all the presents and over eating decline to publish, advertisements for which payment has not been received. or to publish, advertisements for for which which payment payment has has not not been been received. or decline decline to £1) publish, £2, child and new foradvertisements 2012, a Barrel Train Ride that happens at Christmas! Even if you received. through the plantation free of charge. Together with aren’t a regular visitor to your local church, hot complimentary berry juice and a fantastic shop you will be made very welcome, so don’t be for decorations it really gets you in the Christmas shy about going along! To find your nearest spirit! Don’t miss the real reindeer. Please see church visit www.achurchnearyou.com. www.santafir.com for opening dates and times. Bocketts Farm New Soft Play Young Street, Fetcham KT22 9BS 01372 363764 From 1 Dec hundreds of Christmas Trees and wreaths will Gym for under CARDS FOR GOOD CAUSES be on sale at Bocketts Farm, plus there’s so much to 5‛s at Jacobs do with the extensive indoor and outdoor play areas, Cards for Good Causes – which sells Well Village Hall animals, gift shop and tea room. Plus you can see charity cards across the UK every year Every Monday and Wednesday board the Santa Express to see Santa in his haybarn have opened in a number of local venues Session hours 9:30-11:00am & 11:15am-12.45pm (Admission + £5.95 to see Santa or £9.95 if just including Godalming Museum, Cranleigh visiting Santa). Arts Centre, St Martin’s Church Dorking, Jo: 07717863228 or Dilek: 07853213023 Alice Holt Forest Farnham Maltings, St Nicolas’ Church www.tiddlersplaygym.co.uk Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham GU10 4LS 01420 23666 For party and function hire Guildford, Haslemere Museum, Parish contact us for details. Christmas trees will be on sale from 1 December. Church Hall Leatherhead, St John’s Church At Alice Holt Forest there are lots of trails and great West Byfleet and Christ Church (Horsell play areas for children. Also from 1-31 December Room 1st Floor) Woking. All opening dates they are running a “Stick Man Trail” (inspired by Julia vary so please see www.cardsforcharity. New Soft Play Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man book) co.uk for details. Gym for under these are £2 from the cafe (not open on 25 Dec). Barrel Train Ride, Santa Fir

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workshops and courses Jo: 07717863228 or Dilek:Cooking 07853213023 Chocolate parties www.tiddlersplaygym.co.uk For party and function hireSpecial recipes for children contact us for details. with food allergies

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Surrey West

Christmas Gifts Christmas For You @ Magical Rooms

10% discount at Magical Rooms for all our readers!

Magical Rooms in Grayshott provides great gifts, toys and services for you to enjoy Christmas. They have a wide range from luxury to pocket money gifts for all ages including their extended baby range through teens to adults. Extensive research is undertaken to provide you with the Christmas gifts you want. We have asked them to make some recommendations for Families readers and they are also offering our readers 10% off in November and December, just quote FAM11 when ordering in store or online (www.magicalrooms.co.uk).

Gift Wrapping

Buy your toys and gifts, choose your wrapping paper and ask us to professionally wrap them and leave with nothing more to worry about! For a Christmas party, a friend’s gift or presents for Christmas Day.

0-2 years Lots of fun in the bath with these water squirters. Different themes are vehicles, farm animals etc. 6 months+. £4.99

Ages 3+

Make bath time a fun time with this 12 piece washing up set. Clean the knives, forks, plates and pans and make the dirt magically disappear. The washing up set comes in its own dish rack that can be stuck to a tiled surface or the side of the bath with the big suckers on the back. 24 months+ £14.25

3 colourful boats to float in the bath, hook them together, stack them up. 12 months+. £4.99

A wonderfully detailed wooden spaceship for many hours of imaginative play including astronauts and aliens. The lift-off module separates for that all important landing on the Moon or even Mars! A present to treasure for many years. 3 years+. Height 74cm. £99 Always wanted to buy your child a horse or pony but can't afford the real thing? We have a Rocking Horse with Saddle, perfect for any child who has fallen in love and is fascinated by horses. The rocking horse will make a perfect gift for any little equestrian rider! £72

Ages 8+ Ever wondered how smart your dog really is? Run your dog through these hilarious - and entirely harmless - tests, and time their response with the stopwatch! £5.99

Satchels are the ‘must have’ bags this year! We have a range of bright colours and charcoal grey. £34.99

Satchel colours

Ages 12 to adult A lightweight watch inspired by high design timepieces. Chunky, with a comfortable rubberised strap, this watch is perfect day or night and for brightening up any outfit. Presented in a fun lego brick style box which can be used as a bitz box after! £16.99

These and many other fantastic toys and gifts can be found at our shop in Grayshott (2 Headley Road) or online at www.magicalrooms.co.uk. Please contact Lorraine Vidgen on 01428 608340 for more advice and information.

Win tickets to Aladdin at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre! Win a family ticket to see Aladdin on Wednesday 12 December 7pm.

A range of luxury scarfs from Two’s Company for a special lady. Colours include blue, brown, grey, purple, white with many different designs. £11.99

Surrey West

Stellar actress Susie Blake, whose extensive theatre credits include starring as Madame Morrible in the smashhit musical Wicked, will star as the Genie. With a lavish set and sequins aplenty, the all-singing, all-dancing cast can’t wait to for you to join them on a magic carpet ride full of adventure! To enter visit: www.FamiliesSurreyWest.co.uk/competitions End date: 30 November 2012

Here are some other ideas that we at Families like! Award winning Kiddimoto help children develop their skills of balance and coordination and make a seamless transition to a pedal bike without the use of stabilisers. Wide variety of designs and can be personalised! For 2-6yrs. From www.kiddimoto.co.uk £59.99

Toddlers will love to play, stack, tower and build with the Alphabet Zoo ABC House Blocks. They develop their motor skills while creating buildings complete with roofs, windows and doors. Made of high quality wood and non toxic paint. For age 12 months + RRP £28 from www.bibsandstuff.com

Wobble Deck is an exciting electronic, balance board featuring four games. Test skill, memory and agility with hilarious challenges. www. worldsapart.com for stockists. RRP £24.99

Personal gifts are unique and always a hit with relatives. Maisie Moo Fingerprint Jewellery offer beautiful handmade silver jewellery, keepsakes and gifts using fingerprints, handprints and footprints of babies, children and adults. All the pieces are made to order and Maisie Moo Jewellery are completely unique just like a fingerprint. (www.maisiemoojewellery.co.uk). Tiny Touches Jewellery create beautiful jewellery that captures your child’s fingerprint in fine silver. Handcrafted products include charms, pendants, keyrings, cufflinks and more. Prices from £25. Tiny Touches Jewellery (www.tinytouchesjewellery.co.uk).

Makedo Every parent knows that feeling, when you’ve spent a fortune on the latest high-tech toy only to find your children much more engrossed playing with the packaging! Makedo’s brilliant idea is to help those kids make better use of the packaging! It supplies a Safe-saw for cutting and punching through materials safely, Re-clips and Lock-hinges for connecting – the child’s creativity and instinct for building things from boxes, cardboard boxes and wrappings then takes over from there. From £7.99 SRP from www.marbeltoys.co.uk Give a garden! Just £12 will provide training in how to build a Keyhole Garden for one African family, so they can grow 3 meals a day. www.sendacow.org.uk Carddies have launched two new sets for Christmas - Carddies Nativity and Carddies Farm. Each set contains 12 double-sided, hand-drawn characters made of card with stands, 12 colouring pencils and a hand-drawn card scene as a backdrop, all packaged in a sturdy box so they can be "taken with you wherever you go". There are lots of other themes. £8.99 www.carddies.com

Christmas Gifts Local Surrey mum of two, Lesley Hill, hopes that her new product will help take the headache out of travelling and eating out with young children. The Roll-Up Chalk Mat is a blackboard on one side, a wipeclean placemat on the other and it rolls up to tuck into your bag neatly, ready to take everywhere with you. This clever new product for the UK is the design of Lesley and her friend Louise who have teamed up to form Les & Lou. Lesley is no stranger to business, having been a partner at a Big 4 firm in London before becoming a full-time Mum, but she admits that it’s completely different taking an idea from scratch and getting it off the ground. “It’s so exciting though, and the reward will be seeing other parents and their children getting enjoyment out of our product” sums up Lesley. There’s a special introductory offer of a chalk mat, plus chalk and free delivery for just £9.99 – perfect for Christmas! See www.lesandlou.co.uk

The Little Letter Bird delivers brightly coloured packs to children each week, containing everything they need to create a craft. Aimed at 3-6 year olds, there are two Christmas packs: Pack 1 is £15 and includes a Christmas card, craft and six weekly crafts commencing in the New Year. Pack 2 is £20 and includes a Christmas card, craft, gift and six weekly crafts commencing in the New Year. Pre-order deadline Dec 14. www.littlelettercompany.co.uk

Clothes full of Character for Tots & Toddlers full of Fun! Check out the Monkey + bob website for a collection of colourful, characterful clothing for boys and girls from 3 months up to 5 years. Monkey + bob offers a range of easywear/easycare clothing designed to be comfortable, practical and adorable. The designs are kept purposefully simple allowing maximum freedom of movement, and they have the minimum number of fastenings to make dressing easy. All the garments are machine washable and made from organic cotton, so they’re ethically sound and beautifully soft against delicate young skin. They also have a special secret Monkey + bob pocket great for hiding secret stashes of hidden toddler treasure! Clothes are available online at www.monkeyandbob.co.uk and at www.notonthehighstreet.com

Surrey West

Independent Schools

INDEPE NDENT SC HOOL OPE N DAYS Please contact the school to see if you need to register in advance for their open day

School

Open Day Date

Aldro School, Shackleford 01483 409020

Sat 2 March 2013 Boys 7-13 years.

Amesbury School, Hindhead 01428 604322 l.wright@amesburyschool.co.uk

Stay & Play Nursery Morning : Wed 7 Nov 9.30-11.30am Thurs 7 Feb Mixed 3-13 years.

Barfield School, Runfold, Farnham 01252 782271

Fri 16 Nov Headmaster’s talk at 9.30am. Mixed 2-13 years.

Barrow Hills, Witley 01428 683639

Fri 1 March, Mon 4 March 2013 10am-12noon. Mixed 3-13 years.

Belmont Preparatory School Holmbury St Mary 01306 730852

Fri 9 Nov Mixed 2-13 years.

How to encourage reading

Coworth Flexlands School, Chobham 01276 855707

Please call the school. Boys 3-7 years, Girls 3-11 years.

Cranleigh Prep School, Cranleigh 01483 542051

Please call the school. Mixed 7-13 years.

Cranmore School, West Horsley 01483 280340 Boys 2 ½-13 years, Girls 2 ½-4 years.

Fri 1 March, Sat 2 March 2013 9.30am-12noon. 10.30 Meet the Headmaster

Many of us know the value and enjoyment of reading. Good readers become better writers, better learners and well rounded individuals. Taking an active part in helping your children become interested in reading is vital. Despite busy days, tired kids, limited time and many distractions, here are five simple steps that can help.

Duke of Kent School, Ewhurst 01483 277313

Fri 8 Feb, Sat 9 Feb 2013 9.30am. Mixed 3-16 years.

Edgeborough, Frensham 01252 792495

Please call the school. Mixed 2-13 years.

Farlington School, Horsham 01403 254967

Thurs 8 Nov 9.15am Boys 3-4 years, Girls 3-18 years.

Frensham Heights, Rowledge 01252 792561

Thurs 15 Nov 9.30am Mixed 3-18 years.

Glenesk School, E Horsley 01483 282329

Thurs 14 Feb 2013 10am. Mixed 2-7 years.

Greenfield School, Woking 01483 772525

Please call the school. 10am-12noon. Mixed 3-11 years.

Guildford High School, Guildford 01483 543853 Girls 4-18 years.

Jnr School: Tues 20 Nov 10am Snr School: Wed 14 Nov, Thurs 6 Dec 10am.

Halstead Prep School, Woking 01483 772682

Sat 23 March 2013 Girls 3-11 years.

Haslemere Prep School, Haslemere 01428 642350

Please call the school. Boys 2-13 years, Girls 2-4 years.

Hoe Bridge School, Woking 01483 760018

Thurs 28 Feb 2013 Mixed 2 ½-13 years.

International School of London Woking 01483 750409

Please call the school. Mixed 2-13 years.

Step three - See the teacher and judge where they are.

Lanesborough School, Guildford 01483 880650

Please call the school. Boys 3-13 years.

Find out what reading program the school follows, get to know the levels, and aim to supplement the program at home.

Longacre School, Shamley Green 01483 893225

Fri 8 Feb 2013 9.30am-12noon. Mixed 2 ½-11 years.

Manor House School, Bookham 01372 457077 Girls 2-16 years.

Tues 12 Feb 2013 9.30-11am, starting with a welcome by the Head at 9.30am.

Prepare a timetable. Know what level your child is at and the next, with some idea of when it can be achieved. There is no race to be the first to read, it just puts things into context.

St Edmund’s School, Hindhead 01428 609875

Please call the school Mixed 2-16 years.

St Hilary’s School, Godalming 01483 416551

Thurs 15 Nov 10.30am-12noon. Boys 2 ½-7 years, Girls 2 ½-11 years.

St Ives School, Haslemere 01428 643734

Awards Assessment Day Fri 23 Nov Girls 2-11 years, Boys 2-4 years.

St Nicholas’ School, Fleet 01252 850121

Sat 10 Nov 10am-1pm. Boys 3-7 years, Girls 3-16 years.

St Teresa’s School, Effingham 01372 452 037

Please call the school. Girls 2-18 years.

Tormead School, Guildford 01483 796040 Girls 4-18 years.

Junior School: Tues 6 Nov, Fri 1 March 9.30-11am. Senior School: Fri 9 Nov, Tues 12 March 9.30-11am

By Elisabeth Dolton

Step one - Set up reading time every day

Decide when and where a reading session will take place, which fits into your household schedule, and keep to it. 10 minutes is fine. Encourage your child to read aloud. They don’t have to get every word right, and praise them often. If they are discouraged by their own reading, you read aloud. The pleasure of listening to you read can restore their enthusiasm. Offer to read every other sentence, page, chapter and have conversations and discussions about the content. Make it fun. Children love sound effects, different voices, pulling faces.

Step two – During reading time: Introduce the bookmark.

Stop after

a few pages and pick up where you left off at another time.

Provide an accessible, special place for children to keep their own books. Use special incentives, e.g. an extra 5 minutes to finish a chapter, a promise to take them to see the film of the book, sticker charts and certificates. Notice what attracts your children's attention, even if it’s only pictures, and build on that interest. Gather more information on the same subject. Listen to audio books (in the car too). These help develop visualisation, a critical pre-reading skill. Let them choose their own books. Don’t worry the books are too young or too easy, early reading success can come from several "non-traditional" sources such as comics. Buy a special notebook and record all the books they have read, add their thoughts and a star rating.

Step four - Plan specific reading linked activities. Extend your child's positive reading experiences, e.g. If they enjoyed reading about dinosaurs, visit the natural history museum.

Moon Hall School, Holmbury St Mary 01306 731464

Please call the school. Specialist school for dyslexic children aged 7-11 years.

Pennthorpe School, Rudgwick  01403 822391

Please call the school. Mixed 2-13 years.

Encourage activities that require reading, e.g. read a recipe, instructions, and directions, play games that require reading, use a reference book to look up something you have seen.

Ripley Court, Ripley 01483 225217

Please call the school. Mixed 3-13 years.

Visit the library and give your child their own library card. They can choose their own library book or listen in on story-time.

The Royal School, Haslemere/Hindhead 01428 603052 admissions@royal-school.org

Senior School Tues 12 Feb 2013 9-11am Girls 6 wks-18yrs, Boys 6 wks-5yrs (2013: 11yrs +)

Step five – Be a role model.

Rydes Hill School, Guildford 01483 563160

Please call the school. Boys 3-7 years, Girls 3-11 years.

St Andrews School, Horsell 01483 760943

Please call the school. Mixed 3-13 years.

St Catherine’s School, Bramley 01483 899665

Mon 12 Nov 9.30am. Girls 4-18 years.

Let your children see you reading for pleasure. Read aloud everyday items - menus, road signs, food labels. Give books as gifts. Leave books, magazines, and colourful catalogues around your home. Write short notes for your child to read. There are many ways to encourage your child to read, and the best ways always include participation on your part.

Independent Schools

exploring minds Junior School Open Mornings Tuesday 6th November 2012, 9.30-11.00am Friday 1st March 2013, 9.30-11.00am

Education Awards; their future starts here. Awards Assessment Day

Call us now for an application form.

Friday 23rd November 2012

Three Gates Lane, Haslemere, Surrey, GU27 2ES t. 01428 643734 www.stiveshaslemere.com

Academic and non academic awards and exhibitions available. In federation with Haslemere Preparatory School for Boys.

Barfield CO-EDUCATIONAL • DAY • AGE 2-13

Senior School Open Mornings Friday 9th November 2012, 9.30-11.30am Tuesday 12th March 2013, 9.30-11.30am

To register for an Open Day, please call 01483 796040 or email registrar@tormeadschool.org.uk

Independent Day School for Girls 4-18 years Bursaries and Scholarships are available at 11+ and 16+. Tormead School, Cranley Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2JD Registered Charity No: 312057

www.tormeadschool.org.uk

ST HILARY’S SCHOOL

IAPS Preparatory Day School & Nursery Boys 2-7, Girls 2-11

EXPLORE • ENCOURAGE • EDUCATE

www.sthilarysschool.com OPEN DAY

Thursday 15th November • 10.30am-12pm registrar@sthilarysschool.com T: 01483 416551 Holloway Hill, Godalming Surrey GU7 1RZ

Flexible Hours for Working Parents Open Morning: 16th November 2012 Headmaster’s Talk at 9.30am admin@barfieldschool.com • www.barfieldschool.com

01252 782271

In our Sept/Oct 2012 issue we had an article on helping you choose the right school for your child. If you missed it then you can read it online, just use this link www.FamiliesSurreyWest.co.uk/ choosingaschool2

Barfield, Guildford Road, Farnham, GU10 1PB ®

Surrey West

These are the places that Father Christmas will be visiting. If booking is available, we recommend booking, if you don’t need to book please double check times and dates with organiser, as sometimes Santa changes his plans (the North Pole weather can play havoc with his travel arrangements!).

Where to see Santa Aldershot

Ascot

Camberley

The Wellington Shopping Centre

Ascot Racecourse

The Mall

Aldershot 01252 315315 Santa arrives in his Grotto on Sat 17 Nov. He will be there every weekend until Christmas from 11am-4pm and Mon 24 Dec 11am-4pm. Free. No booking needed. There’s also a postbox so you can post a letter to Santa.

Alton Watercress Line Santa Specials

See Santa on a steam train - the perfect way to start Christmas! Join Santa as you steam on a magical one hour round trip through the scenic Hampshire countryside as he visits you in your seat! Santa gives every child a gift in a special souvenir sack with soft drinks for children and wine and mince pies for the grown-ups. Departing from either Alresford or Alton, Santa Specials are by advance booking only. Santa Specials run on 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 21-24 Dec. Fares: Adults £15, Children over 1 year £15, Children under 1 year £8, Fares include all booking fees. To find out more and to book, clickety click to www.watercressline.co.uk

Watercress Line Santa Specials

Ascot SL5 7JX The Family Day Christmas meeting is on Sat 22 Dec. Off the track, enjoy some festive fun by taking a ride at the fairground, experience Christmas tales live from the cosy confines of the Bandstand and even meet Santa’s Ascot Racecourse reindeer! Father Christmas will be waiting in his Winter Wonderland to give a gift to every child, (subject to availability and good behaviour throughout the year!). End the day with a Christmas carol concert, song books are provided free and audience participation is encouraged! Gates Open: 10.45am, First Race: 12.55pm, Last Race: 3.40pm. All entertainment is included in admission (grandstand admission for adults is £18, under 18s free when with an adult). Book in advance and save £5 per adult with our special offer. These reduced price tickets must be booked in advance by calling 0870 727 1234 between 9am5pm or visit www.ascot.co.uk 24/7 and quote FAMILIESSW. TO OXFORD

SWINDON

TO LONDON WATERLOO

M25

NEWBURY

santa fir

BASINGSTOKE

WOKING

A331

ANDOVER

A345

A24 M3

ALTON

A30

CRAWLEY

A3 HORSHAM PETERSFIELD

ALRESFORD

WINCHESTER A272

A36

A272

A32

A24

SOUTHAMPTON M27

A31

christmas tree farm

Chessington Garden Centre

M25

GUILDFORD

A31

A303

SALISBURY

Chessington Garden Centre

Santa arrives at Chessington Garden Centre on Sat 17 Nov to welcome you to his ‘Wonderland Grotto’. Your visit will start with a short festive animated film, followed by a magical trip to meet Santa. Along the way you will journey through a wonderland of stunning fairy-tale inspired scenes, starting with an Alice inspired trip down a rabbit hole to the Mad Hatters tea party and the Queen of Hearts court. It’s then on to meet the impulsive Mr Toad and other residents of Toad Hall, including Ratty, Mole, Badger and the mischievous weasels. Following a rare chance to get to see inside the Elves mystical workshop, you will then travel through an Icy Winter Wonderland with ice skating penguins and a polar bear’s tea party, before finishing with your personal meeting with Santa in his enchanted ice palace. Just follow the links on www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk to book.

TO LONDON PADDINGTON

A34

Chessington

M40

READING

A339

Camberley 01276 22325 Santa will be in his Grotto from Wed 21 Nov and then every Wed-Sun 11am4pm (11am-7pm on Thursdays). Price includes a gift. No booking needed.

A27

PORTSMOUTH

WORTHING BRIGHTON

CHICHESTER

BOURNEMOUTH

NEWPORT ISLE OF WIGHT

S A N TA S P E C I A L S

Opening Times mes

Shop - 3rd to 23rd november 10am - 4.00pm. christmas tree farm & shop - daily from 24th november 9am - 6pm closing 24th december 3pm

Advance booking only!

fantastic shop for r s decorations, gifts and lots more

WEEKEND FUN IN DECEMBER

e riv ar ta e th an s n e o Se ck ’clo er o b em 12 dec 1st

1st, 2nd, 8TH, 9TH, 15TH, 16TH 10am – 4pm

TO OXFORD

SWINDON

M40

A339 A34 A345

BASINGSTOKE

WOKING

A331

ANDOVER

M25

GUILDFORD

A31

A24 M3

ALTON

A30

ALRESFORD

WINCHESTER A272

CHRISTMAS POST BOX

A303

A36

LETTER TO SANTA IN OUR SPECIAL

TO LONDON WATERLOO

M25

NEWBURY

SALISBURY

VISIT SANTA IN HIS GROTTO AND POST YOUR

TO LONDON PADDINGTON

READING

CRAWLEY

A3 HORSHAM PETERSFIELD A272

A32

A24

SOUTHAMPTON A31

M27

PORTSMOUTH

BOURNEMOUTH

A27

CHICHESTER

WORTHING BRIGHTON

NEWPORT ISLE OF WIGHT

catch the barrel train or take a heavy horse and carriage ride (weather permitting)

hot and cold refreshments complimentary hot berry juice

For weekend fun and events visit www.santafir.com Tel : 01483 271770

situated between shamley green & cranleigh willinghurst estate, guildford road, shamley green, guildford, gu5 0sq

Surrey West

N TA C H R I SSSEAE T M AS PSE C ISA LTS A R T S S A N TA O N A S T E A M T R A I N O N T H E S A N TA S P E C I A L ! THE PERFECT WAY TO START YOUR CHRISTMAS

Advance booking only !

Enjoy the magic of a one hour steam train ride as Santa CALL RESERVATIONS ON 01962 733810 TO BOOK OR visits you CLICKETY at your seat with a gift for every child. CLICK TO WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

STARTING 1ST DECEMBER 2012 C ALL RESERVATIONS ON 01962 733810 TO BOOK OR CLICKETY TO WWW.WATERCRESSLINE.CO.UK

Contact Families Surrey West on 01737 558898

Santa will also be at several Christmas Fairs and other events please see our What’s On section on pages 17-21 for details.

Cobham The Medicine Garden

Downside Road, Cobham Santa will be visiting on Sat 15 and Sun 16 Dec and from 20-23 Dec from 3-5.30pm. Drop into the Garden Shop to book your slot. £7 per child.

Painshill Park

Where to see Santa

be there from 2-4pm and then he will be there every weekend until Christmas (Sat 10-5pm, Sun 10-4pm), plus 9.30am-5.30pm on Fri 21 Dec and 9.30am-5pm on Mon 24 Dec. No booking needed. £5.99 includes a gift. Also you can post a postcard to Santa. Tea and breakfast with Santa is also available - please call for details.

Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm

Cobham Visit Father Christmas in the unique Crystal Grotto. From 1-24 Dec. Booking essential on 01932 584284 (Mon-Fri 10am-4pm).

Squire’s Garden Centre

Stoke Rd, Cobham Santa will arrive on Sat 8 Dec at 11am on a Double-decker routemaster bus. Santa will be in his grotto on Sat 8, 15 and 22 Dec at 11am-1pm and again at 2-4pm. Children can visit free and will receive a small gift. Tea with Santa is also available - booking essential for this on 01252 339307.

Cranleigh Manns of Cranleigh

101-105 High St, Cranleigh 01483 273777 Santa will be in Manns from 4-5.30pm and 6.158pm on the 23 Nov and then every Saturday morning from 11am-1pm until Christmas. No booking necessary. Also tea with Santa on Sundays - you need to book for this, please call Hannah Child on 01483 273777.

Notcutts Garden Centre

Guildford Rd, Cranleigh 01483 274222 Santa will arrive in his Grotto on Sun 18 Nov and

£1 per child and there are no age restrictions. All the above attractions (including Santa’s Grotto) are available on 1, 2, 8, 9, 15 and 16 Dec from 10am to 4pm. There are lots of fresh home grown Christmas trees to choose from and a fantastic shop for decorations and gifts, so why not get your fresh Christmas tree at the same time as visiting Santa? At the weekend there is complimentary hot berry juice and a must see are the beautiful resident reindeer. The shop is open daily from 3-23 November 10am - 4pm and the Christmas Tree Farm and Shop are open daily 9am-6pm from 24 November closing on 24 December at 3pm. Visit www.santafir.com for directions and further details.

Esher Claremont Landscape Garden

Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm

On Guildford Road between Shamley Green and Cranleigh. For satnavs the postcode is GU5 0SQ 01483 271770 www.santafir.com Come and see Father Christmas arrive at Santa Fir Christmas Tree Farm on Saturday 1 December at midday, all welcome. Visit Santa in his grotto £2.50 per child with all proceeds going to local charities, no booking required and all children get a present. There is also a special Santa letter box where you can post a letter to Father Christmas. New for 2012, ride the Barrel Train through the plantation free of charge. Also available are heavy horse and carriage rides £2 per adult and

Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9JG Father Christmas will be visiting Claremont on Sat 15 and Sun 16 December. Admission (Adult £7, child £3.50, family £17.50) + £10 per child. Each child will receive a gift. Booking essential on 01372 476436.

The Wey & Arun Canal Trust

SANTA CRUISES

Meet Santa on the Wey & Arun Canal at Loxwood Narrow boat departs from the Onslow Arms (on B2133) 9th, 15th, 16th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd Dec at 11am, 12noon, 2pm & 3pm Gifts for children, mince pies & mulled wine for adults

Tickets £9 each (under 12 months free)

www.weyandarun.co.uk ofﬁce@weyandarun.co.uk or tel: 01403 752403

CHRISTMAS FAMILY FUN

RACEDAY SATURDAY 22ND DECEMBER SUPERB JUMPS RACING FEATURING THE LONG WALK HURDLE

SURPRISES FROM SANTA

VISIT FATHER CHRISTMAS IN HIS GROTTO

FESTIVE FUN

FREE RIDES, CAROL SINGING AND MORE

Tickets from £18 per person Fine dining available 0844 346 3000 ascot.co.uk

Surrey West

Where to see Santa Dorking

West Horsley

Denbies Estate

Squire’s Garden Centre

London Road Dorking 01306 876 616 Santa’s Cellar Grotto from 19-24 Dec 10am-4pm (subject to availability - booking recommended). Child £7.25, (groups of 6+children - £6.50), Adults £2 (includes a mince pie in the cellar). Children receive a gift.

Farnborough Princes Mead Shopping Centre

Farnborough 01252 375520 Free Santa’s Grotto with small gifts from Sun 25 Nov and every weekend in Dec from 11am-3.30pm and on 24 Dec from 11am-2.30pm. No booking required.

Farnham Birdworld

Farnham 01420 22992 Santa will be in his Winter Wonderland with his elves and reindeer on selected dates in December.

Elphicks Department Store

West St, Farnham 01252 716222 Father Christmas will be in his Grotto on Sat 8, 15 and 22 December, 10am-4pm (Santa has his lunch from 1-2pm). £3.50, includes a toy. No booking necessary.

Bocketts Farm Park as Father Christmas returns. From 29 November to 24 December, children will love to hop on board the Santa Express to his magical hay barn workshop. Once inside, each child will meet Santa and receive a gift! Voted one of the top 6 places in the UK to see Santa by ‘The Guardian’. Also from 1 December, hundreds of Christmas Trees and wreaths will be on sale, and the Gift Shop selling a great variety of toys, gifts, games and sledges is not to be missed! What’s more, they’ll be 25 gorgeous new born lambs due, and plenty of indoor play! £5.95 to see Santa, plus the cost of farm entrance. £9.95 if just visiting Santa.

Santa Cruises on the Wey & Arun Canal

The Rural Life Centre

Reeds Rd, Tilford, Farnham GU10 2DL 01252 795571 www.rural-life.org.uk Sat 8, Sun 9, Sat 15 and Sun 16 December. 11am6pm (5pm on Sundays). Take a magical journey on the light railway, visit the toy workshop, enjoy a mince pie and a drink (included in ticket). Then be greeted by Mother Christmas and see Santa in his grotto with presents for the children. Live animals, model railway, lunches & snacks available. Adult £7, child £11. Booking essential.

Squire’s Garden Centre

Badshot Lea Rd, Badshot Lea Santa arrives on Sat 24 Nov and Sat 8 Dec at 11am in a Vintage Fire Engine. Santa will be in his grotto Thursdays and Fridays (24pm), Saturdays (11am-4pm) and Sundays (11am3.30pm) and Mon 24 Dec (11am-3.30pm) from 24 Nov until Christmas Eve. Free, children will receive a small gift. Tea with Santa available - advanced booking essential for this on 01252 339307.

Godalming Secretts Garden Centre

Portsmouth Rd, Milford 01483 520500 Santa will be in his Grotto every weekend in Dec. No booking needed. Proceeds to charity.

Haslemere Haslemere Educational Museum

78 High Street, Haslemere Santa will be in his Victorian Parlour on Thurs 20 Dec, Fri 21 Dec, Sat 22 Dec from 10.30am-4.30pm and Mon 24 Dec from 10.30am-12.30pm. Mem £4, non-mem £5. No need to book. Children receive a gift. Santa will also be at the Museum on Sun 2 Dec as part of the Christmas market (11am-3pm).

Leatherhead Bocketts Farm Park

Young St, Fetcham, Leatherhead 01372 363764 Experience a Magical Christmas at Bocketts Farm,

Surrey West

Loxwood (nr Cranleigh) Wey & Arun Canal

Join in the fun of a festive Santa Cruise on board a beautifully decorated boat and travel along the Wey & Arun Canal and through a restored lock. Children will receive a gift from Santa who will board the boat at the lock whilst adults enjoy mulled wine and mince pies. The boat departs from The Wharf next to the Onslow Arms on the B2133 in Loxwood (free car parking). The trips take 40 minutes and depart at 11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3pm on Sun 9, Sat 15, Sun 16, Fri 21, Sat 22 and Sun 23 Dec. Tickets cost £9 per person (under 12 months are free). It is advisable to book in advance. Call 01403 752403 or email office@weyandarun.co.uk For details of Boxing Day and New Year’s Day cruises visit www.weyandarun.co.uk/tripboats.

Mytchett Basingstoke Canal Centre

Epsom Rd, West Horsley Santa will be arriving on Sat 1 Dec at 11am in a Vintage Car. Santa will be in his grotto on Saturdays and Sundays (11am-1pm & 2-4pm) from 1 Dec. Children can visit free of charge and will receive a small present. Tea with Santa is also available booking essential for this on 01483 284468.

Wisborough Green Fishers Adventure Farm Park

Wisborough Green, W Sussex. 01403 700063 A spectacular experience awaits you at Fishers Adventure Farm Park’s ‘The Magic of Christmas’. A magical winding pathway, with an array of twinkling lights, guides you towards a cosy log fire in Father Christmas’s NEW festive grotto, where Father Christmas and his cheery elves eagerly await your visit. Plus you’ll be able to pick your own free present in the Elves Toy Workshop! Stop by the ‘North Pole Post’ on your way Fishers Adventure to the interactive Farm Park nativity with reallife donkeys! All children are invited to take part in the nativity! Father Christmas will be visiting every weekend from 1 Dec. And don’t miss the thigh-slappingly brilliant panto ‘Jack & The Beanstalk’ as well or why not Enjoy a slap-up Christmas feast in the Saddle Rooms Restaurant. ‘Jack & The Beanstalk’, Father Christmas Grotto Experience (including ‘pick your own’ present) and All-inclusive ‘Adventure Pass’ to Fishers from 10am ‘til close is £19.50 per child (Adult £13.50). Father Christmas Grotto Experience (including ‘pick your own’ present) £8.50 per person (doesn’t include admission to Fishers or Pantomime Ticket). ‘Annual Membership’ holders will be entitled to 10% off. Panto only tickets are also available.

Woking Mizens Railway

Knaphill Santa will be visiting on Sun 9, 16 and 23 Dec 10.30am-3.30pm. Adult £7, child £7. Booking essential. www.mizens-santa.org.uk.

New Victoria Theatre

Ockham

Woking Visit Santa in his Grotto at the New Victoria Theatre! Entry only £3 per child and they receive a free goodie bag! Opportunity to buy a photo with Santa. From 1-24 Dec from 12pm. Closes at performance start time, and at 5.30pm on Tuesdays. Extra Christmas goodies will be available to purchase.

Surrey Wildlife Trust

Squire’s Garden Centre

Mytchett 01252 370073 Take a boat trip to see Father Christmas, then enjoy crafts and refreshments. Children receive a gift. £12 peak, £10 off peak. Booking essential.

Chatley Heath Semaphore Tower, Ockham Common 01483 795471 (Park at Boldermere car park and follow signs to tower, approx 15-20 min walk) On Sun 16 Dec. Meet Father Christmas and his elves, receive a gift, make some Christmas crafts, enjoy a treasure trail and listen to some carols. For ages 4-8yrs. Booking essential.

Littlewick Road, Horsell Woking Santa will be arriving on Sat 1 Dec at 11am on a Routemaster bus. Santa will be in his grotto on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 Dec (11am-1pm & 2-4pm) and Mon 24 Dec (11am-1pm & 2-4pm). Free, includes a small gift. Tea with Santa also available, booking essential for this on 01276 858978.

We took every care preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed. Please double check event with organiser to avoid disappointment. FRIDAY 9 NOVEMBER

FRIDAY 16 NOVEMBER

Handa’s Surprise Haslemere Educational Museum 78 High St, Haslemere 01428 642112 10.30-11.30am. Listen to this story and explore the exciting colours and patterns found in the galleries. Create your own artificial bowl of fruit. Adult £1, child £2, no need to book. For under 5s with an adult.

Painting for Under 5s The Lightbox Chobham Rd, Woking 01483 737837 11-11.45am. Please pre-book. £3 per child, accompanying adult free.

Bingo Night! Send First School Send Barns Lane, Send, Woking 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 on the door.

SATURDAY 10 NOVEMBER Black Out, Elmbridge Museum Church St, Weybridge 01932 843573 2-4.30pm. Find out how Elmbridge residents whiled away the long hours of blackout during the Blitz of WW2. There will be activities, puzzles, tricks, and conundrums to amuse and delight. No booking, operate a first come, first serve basis. Children must be with an adult. £1.50 per child. Tiny Touches Jewellery @ The Toybox Wharf Street, Godalming 10am3pm. Tiny Touches Jewellery will be instore making Fingerprint Jewellery. An ideal opportunity to create some truely unique Christmas presents. For more information or to book please call Mary on 07818 047177

SUNDAY 11 NOVEMBER Glorious Food, Farnham Maltings Bridge Square, Farnham 01252 745444 10am-4pm. Advance tickets £3, on the door £4, under 15s free. Food halls selling a diverse range of products, live cookery demonstrations, children’s workshops and more.

MONDAY 12 NOVEMBER Pop Up Adventure - Diwali Enchanted Wood Toys 1-3 East Street, Farnham 10-10.45am. Free, but booking essential on 07956 182488. Help Prince Rama and the monkeys save Princess Sita in this adventure which includes a story, drama and dancing and make a Diwali craft to take home.

TUESDAY 13 NOVEMBER Autumn Leaves Surrey Heath Museum Knoll Road, Camberley For under 5s with an adult. Free, drop-in from 10.30-12noon.

WED 14 NOVEMBER Pop Up Adventure - Diwali Enchanted Wood Toys 10-12 Petworth Road, Haslemere 10-10.45am. Free, but booking essential on 07956 182488. Help Prince Rama and the monkeys save Princess Sita in this adventure which includes a story, drama and dancing and make a Diwali craft to take home.

Museum Monkeys Chertsey Museum 33 Windsor St, Chertsey 01932 565764 Singing, stories & crafts. For under 5s with an adult. 9.30am. Please prebook. Child £4.50, siblings (1-5yrs) £2. Diwali Celebration The Festival of Lights Woking Park Free community lantern parade leaves from the car park near the play area at 6.30pm. It finishes near Woking Leisure Centre, where everyone is invited to a Diwali Extravaganza Event.

SATURDAY 17 NOVEMBER Tiny Touches Jewellery @ Bella & Freddie High St, Hartley Wintney 11am-3pm. Tiny Touches Jewellery will be holding a Silver Fingerprint Jewellery making session in store. Create some unique presents or treat yourself to a keepsake. For more information please call Mary on 07818047177

The

Magic of

Christmas

from 1st Dec Father Christmas

fishersfarmpark.co.uk

in his magical grotto

01403 700063

Our 15th Annual Pantomime

Jack

Wisborough Green, West Sussex, RH14 0EG Scan this QR code on your smart phone to go straight to our website

& the

Beanstalk

Tickets from £8.50

Box Office: 01403 700063

Bocketts Farm Park 29th Nov - 24th Dec

A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS

SAT 17 NOV - SUN 23 DEC

Save

up to

£10

on a family visit!

FATHER CHRISTMAS IS HERE!

Peacocks Shopping Centre & Wolsey Place Woking 01483 741000 Weekends only. There will be various children’s activities such as crafts, biscuit decorating, face painting, real reindeer to see (activities vary each w/e).

› Hop on board the Santa Express to his magical haybarn workshop to receive a gift. › Voted top 6 in the UK by ‘The Guardian’

TUESDAY 20 NOVEMBER Storytelling for Under 5s The Lightbox Chobham Rd, Woking 01483 737837 11-11.40am. Suggested donation £2. Spaces allocated on a first come first serve basis from 10.30am.

What’s On Diary

Plus newborn lambs and a gift shop full of stocking fillers!

www.bockettsfarm.co.uk

✃

SPECIAL

OFFER

£2 off full price farm entry per person

(max 5 people) valid from 5th - 30th November 2012. Only with this voucher.

FRIDAY 23 NOVEMBER We’re Going on a Bear Hunt Haslemere Educational Museum 78 High St, Haslemere 01428 642112 1.30-2.30pm. Go on an expedition to find a bear and act out the popular story. Adult £1, child £2. No need to book. For under 5s with an adult.

we love alice holt forest

FRI 23 NOV - SUN 6 JAN Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park London 10am-10pm daily except 25 Dec (on 23 Nov only - opens at 5pm). Includes a Magical Ice Kingdom with over 500 ice and snow sculptures. Other attractions include outdoor Ice Rink, the iconic Giant Observation Wheel, the Angels Christmas Market, Yuletide Market, Zippos Circus and Santa Land for the younger visitors. Free to enter. Tickets need to be booked for The Magical Ice Kingdom, Ice Rink, Giant Observation Wheel & Zippos Circus. www. hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Christmas...

Explore the Stick Man Activity Trail, based on the well loved children’s book. Come along to our Little Explorer and Babes in the Wood Christmas Specials for young children. There’s craft workshops for adults too and you can even buy your Christmas tree here!

Booking essential, for info call 01420 23666 forestry.gov.uk/aliceholt

Surrey West

What’s On Diary MONDAY 26 NOVEMBER Pop Up Adventure - Christmas Enchanted Wood Toys 10-12 Petworth Road, Haslemere 10-10.45am. Enjoy a Winter story, dance, drama, music and games and make an advent decoration. Free, but booking essential on 07956 182488.

WED 28 NOVEMBER Pop Up Adventure - Christmas Enchanted Wood Toys 1-3 East Street, Farnham 10-10.45am. Enjoy a Winter story, dance, drama, music and games and make an advent decoration. Free, but booking essential on 07956 182488.

FRIDAY 30 NOVEMBER Horsell Village Christmas Tree Festival, St Mary's The Virgin Church Hill, Horsell 10am-6pm. Schools, families, community groups and businesses are getting creative to make a unique exhibition of Christmas trees, whether big, small, traditional, modern, edible, recycled, colourful or illuminated. Entries will be displayed in the church. There will be prizes, games, music and refreshments. Suggested contribution of £3 per adult, children free. horsellchristmas@gmail.com Pirbright Christmas Tree Festival St. Michael & All Angels Church Lane, Pirbright There will be trees decorated by all the local societies and schools - no shortage of sparkle! Free entry. A treasure hunt for children, Christmas market and refreshments. 11-6pm on Fri 30 Nov & Sat 1 Dec, 11-4pm on Sun 2 Dec. Then at 4.30pm on Sunday prize giving, Christmas Carols, mulled wine and mince pies.

SATURDAY 1 DECEMBER Christmas at Polesden Polesden Lacey Great Bookham, nr Dorking, RH5 6BD Get into the festive spirit early at Polesden. With Yuletide choirs, sleigh-rides and more. Father Christmas will be wandering around so why not bring along your letter to him and give it to him in person? The gardens are open from 10am4pm and entry is normal admission (£7.40 per adult, £3.70 per child, £18.50 per family). Entry to the house, which will be dressed up for an amazing Edwardian Christmas, is from 11am and costs an additional £4 per adult and £1 per child including members. Tickets to the house can be booked in advance on 0844 2491895. Christmas at Polesden is also on Sun 2, Sat 8, Sun 9, Sat 15, Sun 16, Sat 22 & Sun 23 December. 15 Minutes of Fun Chertsey Museum 33 Windsor St, Chertsey 01932 565764 1.30-3.30pm. Free drop-in craft activity for all the family - make a Christmas countdown.

Surrey West

We took every care preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed. Please double check event with organiser to avoid disappointment.

Christmas Fun Day Merrow Village Hall, Guildford 2.30-4.30pm. Dynamic Tots invites you to a fun filled afternoon which will include ballet tots and street tots dance classes, face painting, cake sale and the chance to meet Santa in his grotto. A great fun family afternoon. Free, no booking necessary. A Christmas Carol Haslemere Educational Museum 78 High St, Haslemere 01428 642112 10.30am-12noon. For ages 5-11. Help with this year’s Christmas display for the Reception area of the Museum on the theme of Christmas cards and carols. Mem £5, non-mem £7. Please pre-book. Horsell Village Christmas Tree Festival See listing on 30 Nov.

TUESDAY 4 DECEMBER Storytelling, The Lightbox See entry on 20 November.

WEDNESDAY 5 DECEMBER Christmas Arts & Crafts for Under 5’s, Mummas & Beans 10 Queen St, Godalming 10.45-11.45am. Create decorations and other Christmas goodies. £5 (siblings £2.50). Booking essential on 07956 182488. Toddler Day The Look Out Discovery Centre Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell 01344 354400 As well as all the other attractions here, there will be Christmas themed arts & crafts. £6.45 per parent and toddler, and £1.50 for each additional toddler (up to a max of 3).

THURSDAY 6 DECEMBER

Pirbright Christmas Tree Festival See listing on 30 November.

Toddler Day, The Look Out Discovery Centre See 5 December.

SAT 1 - SAT 22 DECEMBER

SATURDAY 8 DECEMBER

Aldershot Military Museum Queens Av, Aldershot 0845 603 5635 Trails, colouring and quizzes to get everyone in the mood for Christmas! Drop-in during normal opening hours (Wed-Fri 10am5pm, Sat-Sun 11am-4pm). Included in admission {Adult £3.20, child 5-15 £2.10, under 5 free, family (2 +2) £8.40} but a donation towards materials appreciated.

Theatrebugs’ Festive Funday 9am-12pm at United Reform Church, Bridge Road, Godalming and 1.30pm4.30pm at 40 Degreez, Dogflud Way, Farnham. A jolly Christmas party based on the magical story of “Where is Santa?” with music, dancing, arts, crafts and festive games! Have a delicious Christmas Tea Party with the Magical Christmas Fairy, Mrs Claus or the real Father Christmas himself plus receive an early Christmas gift. Come in your favourite festive costume - the Bugs will dress up too! Mums and dads can shop while children enjoy the festive fun! £30. 15% group booking discount; 10% early booking discount quote ‘snail10’ (limited period only!) T& C’s apply! Early booking recommended. Book online www. theatrebugs.co.uk/surrey.html or call 01483 882244 / 07971004134 or email hannahmason@theatrebugs.co.uk

SAT 1 - MON 31 DECEMBER Stick Man Trail, Alice Holt Forest Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham GU10 4LS (Closed Christmas Day) Share in the adventures of Stick Man as you go around the trail at Alice Holt Forest, inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Stick Man book. Families will enjoy following Stick Man as he tries to get back to his family tree in time for Christmas. Whether building a little den, finding stick children hidden in the trees or even creating your own Stick Man, you’ll be amazed at what a simple stick can do! Trail leaflets can be purchased from the cafe for £2. Text copyright (c) Julia Donaldson, 2008 Illustration copyright (c) Axel Scheffler, 2008

SUNDAY 2 DECEMBER Pirbright Christmas Tree Festival See listing on 30 November. Christmas at Polesden See entry on 1 December. As Quiet as a Mouse Haslemere Educational Museum 78 High St, Haslemere 01428 642112 10.30-11.30am. Enjoy this fun action story and make a mouse finger puppet. Adult £1, child £2. No need to book. For under 5s with an adult.

Hobbits Christmas at Farnham Museum of Farnham 38 West St, Farnham 01252 715094 11-3.30pm. £3 per child (under 3s free). Explore the hobbit’s burrow and make your own hobbit feet and ears. Children to be with by an adult. Christmas at Polesden See entry on 1 December. Christmas Charity Fun Day Secretts Garden Centre Portsmouth Rd, Milford 01483 520500 Free mini open air pantomime - Alice in Wonderland (check www.secretts. co.uk for show times). Charity stalls and refreshments from 10am-4pm. Festive Zoo Days Chessington World of Adventures 0871 663 4477 10am-3pm. Take a wander around the Zoo and SEA LIFE centre and get up close and personal with over 1,000 animals. Don’t miss the resident reindeer, Father Christmas and his elves in a

festive show and meet & greets, and for the full Festive Feel try one of the Father Christmas sleepovers at the Resort Hotel. Christmas Decorations Salters (Salters is just around the corner from Guildford Museum, Castle Arch Guildford ) 11am-1pm and 2-4pm. For ages 5-11 with an adult, no booking needed. Create some fantastic Christmas decorations. Farnham Maltings Bridge Square, Farnham 01252 745444 Willow Bird Feeders 10am-12pm. £10. Basket-maker Judith Needham will show you how to make a bird feeder to help the birds through the cold weather to come. There will be time to make several bird feeders (great Christmas present for grandparents). Please pre-book. Chocolate Presents 10am-11.30am or 1pm–2.30pm. £12.50. Come and have some fun cooking with the Crafty Chefs and make edible chocolate presents. Suitable for all ages up to 10 years. A great way for children to develop their cooking skills in a safe and fun environment. Allergies and intolerances catered for. Please pre-book. The Twelve Days of Christmas Elmbridge Museum Church St, Weybridge 01932843573 2-4.30pm. Create your own festive decorations inspired by a traditional Christmas song. Booking is not necessary, first come, first serve basis so come early to avoid disappointment! Children must be with an adult. £1.50 per child.

SUNDAY 9 DECEMBER Hatchlands Park East Clandon, Guildford 01483 222482 Christmas Animal Visit 12noon4pm. Meet the animals around the manger in the courtyard and stable, enjoy Christmas story reading and talks, and a visit from Father Christmas. Normal admission. Christmas Carols 4-5pm. Christmas carols and readings with complimentary soft drinks, biscuits, mulled wine and mince pies. Adult £5, child £3, family (2+3) £14. Booking essential on 01483 444334 or www.visitguildford.com Christmas at Polesden See entry on 1 December. Festive Zoo Days, Chessington See entry on 8 December.

MONDAY 10 DECEMBER Babes in the Wood Christmas Specials, Alice Holt Forest Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham 01420 23666 10.30am-12noon or 2-3.30pm. Ages 14months -2 ½ yrs. £10 Parking permit included. There’ll be lots of seasonal crafts along with a story and songs after a short walk in the winter woods. Very popular early booking essential.

What’s On Diary TUESDAY 11 DECEMBER Babes in the Wood Christmas Specials See entry on 10 December.

WED 12 DECEMBER Little Explorer Christmas Special Alice Holt Forest Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham 01420 23666 2-3.30pm. For ages rising 3-4 years. £10 Parking permit included. Lots of festive fun with a short walk in the winter woods, games and activities, followed by a seasonal story and crafts in the cosy classroom. Refreshments included. Very popular so early booking essential. The Snowman & Father Christmas, Electric Theatre Onslow St, Guildford 01483 444789 5pm. £5. Screenings of these beautiful Christmas films. Includes hot chocolate and marshmallows. Arty fun from 4pm. Please pre-book.

THURSDAY 13 DECEMBER Little Explorer Christmas Special Alice Holt Forest See entry on 12 December. Times of sessions today are 10.30am-12noon and 2-3.30pm.

FRIDAY 14 DECEMBER Painting for Under 5s The Lightbox See 16 November. Museum Monkeys, Chertsey Museum See entry on 16 November.

SATURDAY 15 DECEMBER Christmas Trail Sayers Croft Trust Cranleigh Rd, Ewhurst 01483 275 990 12pm-3pm. For all ages. A magical trail around the woods and fields meeting some wonderful Christmas characters. At each stop there is a challenge, game or craft for the children to complete and a clue to collect which will lead them to someone very special. Games include making your own reindeer hat, penguin skittles and a blindfold present drop! Booking not required (Adults and children: £5 in advance, £7 on the day, 2 and under free).

arts, crafts and festive games! Have a delicious Christmas Tea Party with the Magical Christmas Fairy, Mrs Claus or the real Father Christmas himself plus receive a gift. Come in your favourite festive costume! £30. 15% group booking discount; 10% early booking discount quote ‘snail10’ (limited period only!) T&C’s apply! Early booking recommended! Book on www.theatrebugs.co.uk/ surrey.html or call 01483 882244 / 07971004134. Secretts Garden Centre Portsmouth Rd, Milford 01483 520500 See farm animals from Mill Cottage Farm Experience from 11am-4pm. Christmas Decorations The Lightbox Chobham Rd, Woking 01483 737837 Drop in anytime from 1.30-4pm. Suggested donation £2. Make Christmas decorations using new and recycled materials. For 4yrs+ with an adult. You may have to wait if it’s busy. Christmas Decorations Surrey Heath Museum Knoll Road, Camberley 01276 707284 Free drop-in session for the under 5’s. 10.30-12noon. Christmas Baubles Family Workshop, Farnham Maltings Bridge Square, Farnham 01252 745444 10am-12pm or 2-4pm. £5. Use tissue paper, glitter, sequins, pipe cleaners and pompoms and learn to make your own festive Christmas bauble. Materials provided. Dress for mess. For ages 3+. Under 16s must be with an adult. Please book. Festive Zoo Days, Chessington See entry on 8 December.

SAT 15 DEC - MON 24 DEC Christmas Children’s Trail Festive Feasts Claremont Landscape Garden Portsmouth Rd, Esher KT10 9JG 10.30am-3pm (except 10.30am1.30pm on 24 Dec). Admission + 50p per trail. A trail for all the family to enjoy learning about the origins and traditions of Festive Feasts.

Christmas at Polesden See 1 Dec.

SAT 15 DEC - WED 2 JAN

Hobbits Christmas at Farnham See entry on 8 December.

Winter Wonders Trail Winkworth Arboretum Godalming 01483 208936 A fun trail to celebrate the festive season. Included in admission. 10am-3pm. Please check www.nationaltrust.org.uk/winkwortharboretum for days that the Arboretum is open.

Theatrebugs’ Festive Funday 9am-12pm at British Legion, Beacon Hill Road, Hindhead and 9am-12pm at Maybury Centre, Board School Road, Woking and 1.30-4.30pm at Methodist Church, Ashley Road, Epsom. A jolly Christmas party based on the magical story of “Where is Santa?” with merry music, dancing,

SUNDAY 16 DECEMBER Santa Toddle and Santa Dash Cranleigh Charity fun run. 10am. Advance entry £5, family £20 (by Sat 8 Dec). To download an entry form see www.cranleighrunners.com

Celebrate Christmas at Polesden Lacey Sat & Sun 1 & 2, 8 & 9, 15 & 16, 22 & 23 December 11am - 4pm Including Yuletide choirs, sleigh rides, Father Christmas and lots more... and lots more... Plus Plus the house the house will be willbeautifully be beautifully decorated for an Edwardian decorated for Christmas. an Edwardian Christmas. Normal grounds admission, plus £4 adult, £1 child for the house, including members.

Festive Zoo Days, Chessington See entry on 8 December. Christmas at Polesden See 1 Dec. Theatrebugs’ Festive Funday

Tickets can be booked in advance on 0844 2491895

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/polesdenlacey Registered charity No. 205846.

Surrey West

What’s On Diary TUESDAY 18 DECEMBER

FRIDAY 28 December

Storytelling, The Lightbox Se entry on 20 November.

Parent & Toddler Bounceabout Guildford Spectrum 01483 443322 9-10am. For walking4yrs. £5.40. Please pre-book.

WED 19 DECEMBER Christmas Disco Party Mummas & Beans Queen Street, Godalming For under 5s. A mini disco, dancing, games, puppets and a visit from Father Christmas. 10-11am or 3-4pm. £7 (siblings £3.50), includes a gift. Booking essential on 07956 182488.

WEDNESDAY 2 JANUARY

THURSDAY 20 DECEMBER

Friday 4 January

Children’s Carol Concert Clandon Park West Clandon 01483 222482 Join the Oxford Singers as they herald the festive season. Includes mulled wine for adults and mince pie at the interval, plus there will be a visit from Father Christmas. Adult £19, Child (up to 16yrs) £8. Booking essential on 01483 444333 or book online www.visitguildford.com Victorian Christmas Cards Surrey Heath Museum Knoll Road, Camberley £2.50. Drop in anytime from 10.30am-12noon.

FRIDAY 21 DECEMBER Christmas Decorations Haslemere Educational Museum 78 High St, Haslemere 01428 642112 10.30-11.30am. Listen to a festive story and make a decoration to take home. Adult £1, child £2, no need to book. For under 5s with an adult. Brookwood School Community Carols, Brookwood School Connaught Road, Brookwood 1.30pm. With mulled wine, mulled apple juice and mince pies. Everyone welcome, no ticket needed.

SATURDAY 22 DECEMBER Haslemere Educational Museum 78 High St, Haslemere 01428 642112 Haslemere Mummers 11am. Come along to the performance of this traditional play, 20 minutes of family fun. No booking, entry by donation. Christmas Makes Enjoy making a number of creative Christmas crafts. Also includes watching the Mummers play. 10.30am-12noon. For ages 5-11yrs. Mem £5, non-mem £7. Please pre-book. Christmas Family Fun Raceday Ascot Racecourse A fun day out for all the family with racing, fairground rides, Santa and his reindeer and a carol concert. See listing on page 14. Christmas at Polesden See 1 Dec.

SAT 22 - MON 24 DEC Festive Zoo Days, Chessington See entry on 8 December.

SUNDAY 23 DECEMBER Christmas at Polesden See 1 Dec.

We took every care preparing these entries but sometimes events are cancelled or times changed. Please double check event with organiser to avoid disappointment.

Surrey West

Pre-school Drama and Music Workshop, Guildford Spectrum 01483 443322 10-10.30am, 18 months -2 ½ years, £3.90 (with guardian), 10.45-11.30am, 3-5 yrs, £5.40 (without a guardian). Please book.

Parent & Toddler Bounceabout See entry on 28 December

Christmas Light Switch Ons

Aldershot The lights will be switched on at 4.45pm on Sat 17 Nov at the junction of Wellington St and Union St. There’s entertainment from 11am in the Wellington Shopping Centre and from 2.30pm in the town. Live music, fairground rides, choirs, panto cast and animals plus Father Christmas will be around town.

Beacon Hill The lights will be switched on at Beacon Hill School on Sun 2 Dec at 4.30pm. Camberley On Sat 17 Nov the lights will be switched on in the Square at 4pm by Ben & Holly from Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom, they will be there from noon. Cranleigh The Christmas Lights Switch On is on Fri 23 Nov at 6pm, hosted by Eagle Radio in Fountain Square. There is live entertainment from The Rock Choir, Horsham, plus you can see Santa at Manns from 4-5.30pm & 6.15-8pm. Shops will be opening late. Farnborough On Sat 24 Nov Santa will arrive at 4.30pm at the Princes Mead Shopping Centre to switch on the lights. There will be entertainment from 11am with free face painting, balloon modelling, a wandering Elf on a Toadstool, live music and characters from the Princes Hall Panto, Beauty and the Beast. Farnham Farnham Lights are being turned on by Lucy Benjamin on Sat 24 Nov at 5.30pm in Gostrey Meadow. The cast from Beauty & the Beast will be there in costume. From Ipm there will be entertainment on the stage from schools, local groups and bands, a Santa’s Grotto, live animal nativity scene, fun fair, Charity stalls and an arts, crafts & food market. Hot food and drink will be available. Godalming The Godalming Christmas Lights Switch on is Sat 24 Nov. The

Christmas Festival Market will start at 10am, with the switch-on happening at 5pm. For more details on Godalming’s Christmas Festival see www.godalmingchristmasfestival.com

KOOSA Kids 0845 0942322 Camps run at Ash, Fleet, Godalming, Guildford and Liphook from 2-4 Jan. 10am-4pm or 8.15am- 6pm.

Guildford The Christmas lights will be switched on by Susie Blake on Thurs 22 Nov at 7pm on the Guildhall balcony. There is a mascot parade in the High St from 4.30pm and the balcony show at 6pm. There are stalls on the High St and a craft market by Town Bridge. From around 2pm Father Christmas will be around the town until about 6pm.

Three Peaks Outdoor Pursuits Activity day camps at Barfield School, Farnham for all 4-13 year olds - all camps are open to non-Barfield pupils. Activities include high & low ropes, aero ball, archery & shooting, swimming & team games, zip wire & climbing, quad bikes, assault course, swimming and many more great activities! The children are placed in age specific groups. Mon 17-Fri 21 Dec. 8.45am4pm (early drop off and late pick up available, no late pick up on Fridays). 0700 393 2610 www.3pks.co.uk

Woking The lights will be switched on at 7pm on Thurs 15 Nov in the Peacocks Shopping Centre by members of the Panto cast from The New Victoria Theatre. From 4pm there will be live music, Eagle Radio and characters such as the Snow Queen and Elves.

Christmas Holiday Sports Courses & Holiday Camps ActivKids Multi-Sports Camp (athletics, tennis, cricket, handball, rounders, ActivKids games, hockey and much more) and Football only camp (skills, tactics, laws of the game, fun games, matches) for 3-11 year olds on Mon 17 Dec - Fri 21 Dec and Wed 2 Jan - Fri 4 Jan daily 9.30am-3.30pm at Edgeborough Preparatory School, Nr Farnham, GU10 3AH. Price per day: £17 (1 child) £30 (2 children) £45 (3 children). Half-day option (3-5 year-olds only) £12. 8.30am early drop-off available (£3 per child). Register online at www. activkidsclubs.co.uk (bookings page). Casa Holiday Club Holiday camp run on 24, 27, 28, 31 Dec and 2-4 Jan for ages 4-12. £80 per week. 8.30am-5.30pm extensions and half days available. Some of the activities include: workshops, circus skills, archery, multi-sports, art & crafts, cookery, themed days and lots more. Please book and pay at www.casa-club. co.uk or call 01252 727000 - see website for special offers. Guildford Spectrum 01483 44 33 22 Xtreme Activate holiday camp runs from Mon 24 Dec-Sun 6 Jan (MonFri only and not on bank holidays). For ages 5-12 years, 10am- 4pm, £22.50 per day. Xtreme Activate Xtra, runs from 8.30am-6pm, £30.90 per day. Trampolining Thurs 27 Dec or Thurs 3 Jan 2.30-4pm, 4-12 yrs, £8.30 per session. Little Golfers Fri 4 Jan 12.303.30pm, 5-11 yrs, £15.80. Surrey Heat Basketball Camp Thurs 3 Jan 10am-4pm, 8-16 years, £28.10.

NCT Nearly New Sales

Byfleet NCT Sat 1 Dec 2.30-4.30pm (NCT members entry from 2.15pm). Byfleet Village Hall, 54 High Road, Byfleet. nct.byfleet.nns@gmail.com Dorking NCT Sat 17 Nov 10.15am-12noon (10am for NCT members) at North Holmwood Village Hall, Spook Hill, Dorking, DorkingNNS@nct.org.uk Farnham & Aldershot NCT Sat 17 Nov 1.30-3pm (1.15pm for members with a valid membership card) at Connaught Leisure Centre, Tongham Road, Aldershot. nct.farnham.nns@hotmail.com Guildford NCT Sat 24 Nov 11am-12.30pm at St. Joseph’s Church Hall, York Rd, Guildford (members admitted at the head of the queue). Toys & Equipment only sale. Please bring cash or a cheque-book. www.nct.org.uk/guildford Hants North East NCT Sat 1 Dec 10.15-11.30am (10am entry for NCT members) at Courtmoor School, Spring Woods, Fleet. hantsne.nns@gmail.com Knaphill NCT Sat 17 Nov at 10.30am-12pm (10.15 for members) at Knaphill Methodist Church, The Broadway, Knaphill. www.nct.org.uk/knaphill

Primary School Open Mornings

Grayshott Primary School Open Morning for children starting Sept 2013 on Tues 20 Nov at 9.15am. 01428 605596.

What’s On Diary Christmas Fairs Fri 16 - Sun 18 November A Taste of Christmas Secretts Garden Centre Milford Food and Craft Fair. Free entry. Stories and fun with Marvin the puppet on Sat & Sun - check times on www.secretts.co.uk. Saturday 17 November Christmas Craft Fair The Rural Life Centre Reeds Rd, Tilford 01252 795571 10.30am-3pm. Free admission. Modern and traditional crafts demonstrated with original and sometimes unusual gifts for sale. The museum is closed but refreshments are available. Friday 23 November Christmas Fair Myrtles Courtyard, Hampton Estate GU10 1JH 10am-2pm. The fair has gained a reputation for selling stylish, quality gifts for all the family, especially children. Entrance is £2 which includes soup and a roll or tea and coffee and a mince pie. All proceeds will go to parish funds. www.hamptonestate.co.uk. Christmas Shopping Evening Chobham Village Hall, Station Rd, Chobham 6.30-9.30pm. Come to a Christmas Shopping Evening organised by Pennypot Nursery. Lots of stalls including jewellery, gifts, books, clothing, greetings cards and food. Refreshments available, free entry. Saturday 24 November Peaslake School Christmas Fair Peaslake Village Hall The event starts with the children’s procession from school down to the Hall at 11.45am. The fair starts at 12noon until 4pm. A wide range of arts, crafts and gift stalls with artisans from around Surrey, as well as a host of regular favourites, including home produce and legendary Peaslake mums’ cakes! There will be various refreshments, mulled wine, and a special visitor who has agreed to set up his grotto! Art & Craft Fair, The Lightbox Chobham Rd, Woking 10.30am-5pm. Free, suggested donation £2. The perfect place to find unusual and original gifts. Buy handmade textiles, jewellery and ceramics direct from local artists and enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and live music. Friday 30 November Chilworth CofE Infant School Christmas Fair Dorking Road, Chilworth GU4 8NP 5.30-8pm. Entry Adult £1, children free. A fantastic family event, with stalls for all ages, entertainment, Santa’s Grotto, tombolas, refreshments, raffle and much more. chilworthinfants@gmail.com.

Saturday 1 December Send First School Christmas Fair Send Barns Lane, Send, Woking 11am1pm. Festive fun including Christmas craft, tombolas, raffle, games, refreshments, a visit from Santa and much more. If you would like to run your own stall (£15 a table plus a donation to the raffle), please contact sendfirstpta@gmail.com. William Cobbett Junior School Christmas Fair Weybourne Rd, Farnham 2-4pm. Santa will be visiting and there will be a variety of small gifts to buy for family members and friends, plus seasonal refreshments. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy a festive afternoon.

Razzle Dazzle Cheer and Dance Our bespoke children parties are a great way to entertain your child and their friends. Now offering hula hooping and street dance parties, classes and workshops as well as Cheerleading! Email us for more details. info@razzledazzlecheerleading.com Parties Classes Workshops Aftershool Clubs

www.razzledazzlecheerleading.com

Wednesday 5 December Wyke Primary School Christmas Fair School Lane, Normandy, Guildford 5-6.30pm. Everyone’s welcome. Thursday 6 December Christmas Fair Haslewey Community Centre, Lion Green, Wey Hill 3.30-9pm Santa’s grotto, mulled wine, live music, roasted chestnuts and much more. Friday 7 December Brookwood School Christmas Fair Connaught Road, Brookwood Come along from 3.15-5pm. Saturday 8 December Fleet Infant School Christmas Bazaar Velmead Road, Fleet GU52 7LQ 12-4pm. Tiny Touches Jewellery will be one of the stall holders at this Christmas event. They will be making silver fingerprint items - perfect Christmas gifts. Grayshott Primary School Christmas Fair School Road, Grayshott 12-2pm with Father Christmas and the usual fun! Beaufort Community Primary School Christmas Fayre Kirkland Avenue, Goldsworth Park 12-3pm. All welcome there will be many raffle prizes and lots of fun. Park Mead Primary School Christmas Fair Park Mead Drive, Cranleigh 12-3pm. All the usual Christmas fun including Santa’s Grotto, pocket money stalls, tombolas, face painting, sweetie jam jars, cakes and wonderful Christmas goodies. Bring all your friends and family to enjoy the festivities. Tuesday 11 December Christmas Fair, Farnham Maltings Bridge Square, Farnham 01252 745444 4pm-10pm. £1, under 15s and members free. Over 150 stalls with handmade gifts, crafts, vintage and food & drink. Visit Santa’s grotto or enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie!

Develop your child’s independence

Kumon’s maths and English study programmes are tailored to your child’s individual needs, nurturing their independence and enthusiasm for learning. To unlock your child’s potential, contact your local Instructor for a Free Assessment:

Farnborough Sharon Gallagher 01252 750 644

Guildford North Anna Daglish 01372 378 377

Pyrford Sabita Panda 01932 402 737

Guildford East Uma Krishnan 01483 859 396

Haslemere Carole Coulson-Gilmer 01428 642 863

Woking Lesley Collier 01483 726 961 kumon.co.uk

Fees vary. Please refer to your local study centre.

Surrey West

What’s On Diary Activities for Adults Alice Holt Forest Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham GU10 4LS Evergreen Christmas Wreaths Tues 4 Dec or Wed 5 Dec 10am12.15pm. Adults £18 per session. Come and join the creative fun by making an evergreen wreath from forest materials. The resident enthusiasts will show you how it’s done. Price includes use of the warm, cosy classroom, tools, all materials, instruction, refreshments and a parking permit! If you’re a quick worker you might also have time for some other decorations. Please pre-book. Festive Willow Crafts Thus 6 Dec or Sat 8 Dec 10am12.15pm or 12.45-3pm. Adults £18 per session. Learn to craft a willow wreath, a frame for a “Kissing ball” and festive foliage decorated willow stars. Price includes use of the warm, cosy classroom, tools, all materials, instruction, refreshments and a parking permit! Please book. Parenting Courses with Ali McClure Woking 07974 855971 Behaviour, Consequences & Discipline is on Tue 13 Nov 8-10pm. BOYS ... What makes them tick? is on Wed 28 Nov 8-10pm Positive Power is on Tues 4 Dec 8-10pm. Early booking discounts.

Children’s Theatre Camberley Theatre 01276 707600 Seussical Sat 10 Nov 7.30pm. £8.50/£7.50. Peter Pan Sat 8 Dec - Sat 5 Jan. The Ben Travers Theatre Godalming 01483 425 556 www.gtguk.com A Christmas Carol Sun 30 Dec-Sat 5 Jan. A full broadway musical version with a cast of over 80, including students from Guildford Theatre School. Chessington Garden Centre www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk Cirque Normandie Now is the time to plan for your visit to Cirque Normandie’s spectacular show in residence at Chessington Garden Centre from 1 Dec - 6 Jan. With a fantastic, all new, bigger than ever show, including an international cast of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers as well as Tolly the Clown with a new side splitting comedy, all hosted in a centrally heated Big Top. To help ensure your visit goes smoothly and you have all the details you require, they have created an easy to use booking system on www. chessingtongardencentre.co.uk. Cirque Normandie

Cranleigh Arts Centre 1 High St, Cranleigh 01483 278 000 Make Your Own Christmas Wreath! Sat 10 Nov 1-3pm. £18. Please pre-book. Firing Earth Smithbrook Kilns, Cranleigh 01483 268788 Paint & Pamper Days 23 Nov, 30 Nov or 14 Dec 10.30am3pm. Enjoy a ceramic painting morning, lunch and then a beauty treatment from AJ’s hair & beauty (based at Smithbrook Kilns). Please pre-book. This can also be booked as a Christmas voucher to be used in the New Year 2013. Winkworth Arboreturm Godalming 01483 208936 Wreath Making Make a traditional Christmas wreath using materials from the Arboretum. 11am-1pm on Sun 9 December. Booking essential. Admission + £10. Concert by Candlelight St Mark’s Church, Peaslake Organised by Peaslake School, who are delighted to host the men of St John’s, Cambridge to lead them in a spectacular festive tradition of music, with fizz and canapés during the interval. On Sat 8 Dec at 7.30pm. Tickets are £20 for adults/ older children - please call (01306) 730350 for enquiries and bookings.

Surrey West

Cranleigh Arts Centre 01483 278000 Aladdin Sat 10 Nov 2pm. Large scale contemporary shadow puppet theatre. £6.50 (£5.50 for groups of 8+). For ages 4+. The Very Snowy Christmas Sat 8 Dec 11am & 2pm. £7 (£6 for groups of 8+). A funny, festive treat, suitable for 3-7 yr olds. Dorking Halls 01306 881717 Peter Pan 22-30 Dec. Electric Theatre 01483 444789 Little Sparks Regular Saturday morning show for under 5s (please double check dates before going). 11am. Music, games, songs, stories and puppets. £4.50 per child (adults and babes in arms are free). There is no need to book. Please pay cash or cheque on the day after the show. For more details call 07949 821 567.

Snoopy the Musical! Thus 29 Nov & Sat 1 Dec 8pm. £12. Based on the Peanuts comic strip. A Christmas Carol Wed 19-Sat 22 Dec. 2 & 7pm. Thurs & Fri £9, Sat £10. A youth theatre production from The Man in the Moon. Farnham Maltings 01252 745444 There’s a Monster in My Piano Sat 10 Nov 2.30pm. £7. Featuring puppets, clowning, animation and a highly strung monster. For ages 4+. The Selfish Giant Sat 24 Nov 2.30pm. £7. Beautifully crafted puppets, brilliant music and superb storytelling. For ages 3+. The Very Snowy Christmas Sat 15 - Sun 16 Dec 11am & 2.30pm. £7. With music, song, puppetry and a glittering snowy set. For ages 3-7. Fishers Adventure Farm Park 01403 700063 Jack and the Beanstalk On Sat 15, Sun 16, Fri 21, Sat 22, Sun 23 and Mon 24 Dec at 3.15pm & 5pm plus a 1.30pm performance on Sun 23 and Mon 24 Dec. Being famous for their annual sell-out pantomimes, this year Fishers Barn Theatre will be playing host to the popular classic ‘Jack and The Beanstalk’. The pantomime is perfect for all families and is targeted at age 2 yrs and upwards. ‘Jack & The Beanstalk’ and All-inclusive ‘Adventure Pass’ to Fishers from 10am ‘til close is £13.50 per person and ‘Jack & The Beanstalk’ only is £8.50 pp. Father Christmas will be in his new Grotto at Fishers so why not tell him what you’d like for Christmas and pick your own present from the Elves Toy Workshop while you are there? Separate price applies for this. Pre-booking essential for Panto. (See www.fishersfarmpark.co.uk for details). Haslemere Hall 01428 661793 Cinderella Fri 11-Sun 13, Fri 18-Sat 19 Jan. Tickets £8-£10 (£5-£8). G Live 0844 7701 797 La Fille Mal Gardée Mon 10 Dec 7.30pm. Performed by The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia. Coppélia Tues 11 Dec 7.30pm. Performed by The Russian State Ballet & Orchestra of Siberia. Every toy has a story, especially in this charming comedy of errors set in a doll maker’s workshop. The Nutcracker Wed 12 Dec 2.30pm & 7.30pm. This most famous of fantasy ballets for all the family begins as night falls on Christmas Eve. When midnight strikes we are swept away to a fairytale world where nothing is quite as it seems, toy dolls spring to life, the MouseKing and his mouse-army battle with the Nutcracker Prince and you travel through the Land of Snow to an enchanted place where the magic really begins.

The Gruffalo’s Child Mon 28 & Tue 29 Jan Mon 1.30pm & 4.30pm, Tues 10.30am & 1.30pm. £11 + booking fee. “The Gruffalo said that no Gruffalo should Ever set foot in the deep dark wood…” But one wild and windy night the Gruffalo’s child ignores her father’s warning and tiptoes out into the snow. After all, the Big Bad Mouse doesn’t really exist… does he? Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 4 and up, and their adults… Ben and Holly’s Little Kingdom Wed 13 & Thurs 14 Feb Wed 1pm & 4pm, Thurs 10am & 1pm. This BAFTA award winning animation is live on stage for the first time ever! £13.50/£15.50 Family (2+2) £45. Guildford Spectrum 01483 443333 Peter Pan on Ice 1pm & 6pm on Fri 7 Dec and 2pm & 6pm on Sat 8 and Sun 9 Dec. Fall under the spell of Neverland and enjoy the magic come to life with some of your favourite storybook characters including the mischievous Tinkerbell and outrageously behaved Captain Hook. Will Peter Pan and the Lostboys defeat the pirates and make Captain Hook walk the plank? Featuring some of the region’s rising skating stars, it promises to have all the ingredients of a truly spectacular family treat. Adult £11, child £7.50 family (of 4, max 2 adults) £32. Leatherhead Theatre 01372 365141 Oliver Wed 21 - Sat 24 Nov. Performed by Leatherhead Operatic Society. Adult £18, under 16s £10. A Christmas Carol Fri 7 Dec 7.30pm. Ballet Theatre UK’s new production combines traditional ballet with captivating theatre. Adult £18, Under 16s £12.50. Aladdin Tues 18 - Fri 28 Dec. Millers Ark Animals Manor Farm, Blackstock Lane, Hook 01256 767596 Living Nativity Thurs 13 Dec 6pm, Fri 14 Dec 5pm & 7pm, Tues 18 Dec 6pm, Thurs 20 Dec 6pm, Fri 21 Dec 5pm, 24 Dec 4.45pm. £14 for everyone over 2 years (£15 on Christmas Eve). Wear warm clothes & shoes. You will be welcomed into the warm candle lit Tea Barn to await the arrival of Mary and Joseph on their donkey, you will then journey with them in search of a room at the Inn. You will meet Innkeepers, shepherds with their flocks, angels and wise men. Then at last the baby Jesus is born. Back in the cosy Tea Barn there will be hot refreshments. New Victoria Theatre 0844 871 7645 Dick Whittington Fri 7 Dec - Sun 6 Jan. Britain’s Got Talent winners, Ashleigh and Pudsey, make their theatrical debut in the spectacular family pantomime Dick Whittington

What’s On Diary

Dick Whittington at The New Victoria Theatre

at the New Victoria Theatre this Christmas, and joining them is TV presenter, entertainer and magician Stephen Mulhern. Dick Whittington tells the rags to riches tale of a young man and his cat on an exciting quest for fame and fortune. Featuring all the traditional pantomime ingredients; sensational songs, a live band, magic, dazzling dance routines, magnificent slapstick comedy and bags of audience participation – Dick Whittington is guaranteed to be full of wonder to delight audiences of all ages! Princes Hall 01252 329155 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom Sat 10 Nov 1pm & 4pm, Sun 11 Nov 10am & 1pm. £14.50 & £12.50, child £12.50 & £10.50, Family (of 4) £45. Beauty and the Beast Fri 7 - Sun 30 Dec. £14-£16.50. Wintershall Estate Holly Barn, Wintershall, Bramley. Book at www.wintershall-estate.com or call 01483 892167 The Wintershall Nativity Wed 19, The Wintershall Nativity

Thurs 20 & Fri 21 Dec at 4.45pm & 7.30pm & Fri 22 Dec and Sun 23 Dec at 2.30pm & 5.30pm. Adult £15, child £7.50. The perfect way for families young and old to experience the true spirit of Christmas. The action, with a cast of 70, plus real baby, horses, donkeys, sheep, beacons and bonfire, takes place in and around the Holly Barn. Dress warmly with boots or appropriate footwear. The ‘inn’ opens for refreshments an hour before each performance.

Guildford Spectrum presents an adaptation of

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre 01483 440000 Aladdin Fri 7 Dec - Sat 13 Jan. Guildford’s traditional family pantomime starring Susie Blake. In the Mill Studio; Baba Yaga Sat 17 Nov 11am & 2pm £8. A fast-paced re-telling of a Russian story with puppets and music.

Friday Matinee 1 adult & 1 under 5 yrs £6.00

Farmers’ Markets Friday 7th - Sunday 9th December Matinee & Evening Performances

Camberley Park Street, Camberley Sat 24 Nov 9am-2pm, Sat 22 Dec 9am-12noon

BOX OFFICE - 01483 443333 www.guildfordspectrum.co.uk

Farnham Central Car Park, Off Victoria Rd Sun 25 Nov, Sun 23 Dec 10am-1.30pm. Guildford (Farmers & Craft Market) High Street Tues 4 Dec 9.30am-4pm

Freedom Leisure working in partnership with Guildford Borough Council

Haslemere Collingwood Bachelor Car Park, High St Sun 4 Nov, Sun 2 Dec 10am-1.30pm Milford Secretts Farm Shop, Chapel Lane, Milford Sun 18 Nov, Sun 16 Dec 10am-1.30pm Ripley Ripley Village Green Sat 10 Nov, Sat 8 Dec 9am-1pm. Woking Town Centre Thurs 15 Nov, Thurs 20 Dec 9am-2.30pm.

SURREY’S BIGGEST AND BEST FAMILY PANTOMIME ASHLEIGH & PUDSEY

STEPHEN MULHERN

AS ALICE FITZWARREN & HER DOG

AS IDLE JACK

BOOK ONLINE GLive.co.uk

GUILDFORD

Family Shows at G Live THE RUSSIAN STATE BALLET OF SIBERIA LA FILLE MAL GARDÉE Mon 10 December

COPPÉLIA Tue 11 December

THE NUTCRACKER Wed 12 December

THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD

ERIC POTTS

Mon 28 – Tue 29 January

AS SARAH THE COOK

Santa’s Grotto 1-24 Dec £3

FRI 7 DEC 2012 – SUN 6 JAN 2013 0844 871 7645* GROUPS 0844 871 7601 *Fees apply www.atgtickets.com/woking*

BEN AND HOLLY’S LITTLE KINGDOM Wed 13 & Thu 14 February

TICKET DESK 0844 7701 797

| London Road, Guildford GU1 2AA

Surrey West

CLASSIFIEDS Yoga for adults GuildfordYoga www.guildfordyoga.co.uk Drop-in classes, £9/class with equipment, all abilities, experienced teacher. 07932 712644

MOTHER & BABY PilatesMax New mum and baby Pilates

classes in Frensham starting January 2013; book your place at www.pilatesmax.co.uk

buy/sell 2nd hand Pre-owned quality kid’s clothing. Smithbrook Kilns, Cranleigh. Shed The Kids Tel 01483 272529 Open Tues-Fri 10-2.30, Saturday 11-4 The online marketplace for 50% discount with 5 or quality, nearly baby gear. morediscount ads new by quoting: 50% with 5 or

www.nappyvalley.co.uk 5plus more ads by quoting: 5plus

ironing

Parties

MR.MAGIC Great Fun for any kids party Magic / Punch & Judy / Balloon Modelling

01428 684423 / 07768 436607 www.themrmagic.co.uk

Health & Beauty Lilli's Cabin www.lilliscabin.com Complementary & Beauty Therapy in Chertsey. Discounts for new ladies.

CHILDCARE Spanish Au Pairs. Making a difference in families’ lives. Police checked. Surrey & Hampshire. 01252 694 277 www.kangurosaupairagency.com

Larah Au Pairs 01932 341704 Au pairs, mother’s helps and couples with refs and police checked. Personal, friendly service. All areas. www.larahaupairs.co.uk

Nannies, Maternity Nannies, Mobile Crèches Surrey, Hampshire, W.Sussex 01483 415406 www.hattiesnannies.co.uk

TUITION

The Iron Lady 07900 567000

Do you hate ironing or have no time? Help is at hand for a fast and reliable service at competitive rates with FREE local collection and delivery. Call The Iron Lady on 07900 567000 7 days a week.

WINDOW CLEANERS MICHAEL WINDOW CLEANER PLUS

Domestic and commercial. Houses, flats, schools etc. Open 6 days a week. 8am-8pm. 01252 782584 or 07976 675437.

Love your Christmas leftovers! If you have any leftovers from Christmas dinner, chop up roast potatoes and vegetables, chuck into a pan to fry and add some Indian spice for a tasty bubble and squeak dish. Make a stock from the carcass of the cooked turkey by simmering for a few hours in water with any leftover veggies such as onions, carrots or celery. Strain and season the liquid, which you can freeze, and use to flavour soups and risottos. Make space this season in your freezer. Food can be kept safely in the freezer for years at -18°C, as long as you keep it frozen the whole time. However the texture and taste may change over time, so try to eat food within three months. For advice on planning your shopping, portion control, recipe ideas and more, visit www.lovefoodsurrey.com.

Chessington garden centre.co.uk

9 10 11

3 3

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www.chessingtongardencentre.co.uk

Copyright: Families Surrey West Magazine 2012. Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at owners’s risk and, whilst every care is taken, neither Families Surrey West nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. Families Surrey West is part of the Families group, established in 1990 and headed by Families South West. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under license. We take every care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor the accuracy of the contents nor any consequence.