January/February 2017 Issue 33 FREE! Take me home!

®

Age 3 - Adult 01789 731 000 [email protected] www.rnsd.co.uk The essential local magazine for parents www.familiesonline.co.uk Fixed In this issue fees e available DIVORCE 3 Snippets IS NEVER 4 New Year 6 Clubs and Classes

8 Education EASY e What's on But we try to make it easier. We are passionate about providing the very highest standards of client service and never lose sight of the fact that although Contact details WIN A FAMILY practical issues need to be resolved, feelings and emotions are Call: Claire Jones on 01926 335004 THEATRE TICKET just as important. E: [email protected] www.familiesonline.co.uk We can help with a wide variety of family law problems. Cover by Linda Scannell www.lindascannell.com Next issue: March/April 2017 Please contact Carline for free initial advice Design by www.peninsula-design.co.uk Deadline: Friday 3rd February

01926 491181 All content ©2017 Families Warwickshire Families Warwickshire is part of Families Magazines [email protected] Families Warwickshire is a bi-monthly magazine Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines for parents, covering Stratford-on-Avon and in the group are independently owned and Districts with 21,500 copies. Towns operated under licence. Families® is a registered covered include Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick, trademark of Families Magazines Ltd, Remenham Moore & Tibbits and , plus Studley, House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne Alcester, Bidford, Henley-in-Arden, Wellesbourne, End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The contents of Families Solicitors Welford-on-Avon, Shipston-on-Stour, Southam Warwickshire are fully protected by copyright and a member of and lots of the smaller villages in between. none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of the publisher. We take every care preparing www.qualitysolicitors.com/moore-tibbits Advertise with us and reach this magazine but the publishers and distributors 40,000+ local parents and cannot be held responsible for the claims of 34 High Street, Warwick CV34 4BE advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor carers. for any consequence. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority No.563197 Introducing our front cover star Tyler By Andy Cove, Tyler’s dad To his family, his friends and anyone lucky enough to have Tyler in their lives, they see him as a typical, cheeky little boy with a smile that could melt even the hardest of hearts. That Tyler has Down Syndrome has almost become an afterthought and while it is always front and centre of our lives in many ways, those aspects are largely functional and logistical rather than any emotional baggage that we attach to our amazing little boy. Down Syndrome, an extra copy of the 21st chromosome, has been in the media recently with non-invasive testing threatening to reduce or even in a worst case scenario, wipe out Down Syndrome from the modern world. As Tyler’s parents, while we acknowledge the complexity of the argument, we prefer to tell Tyler’s story with all the ups and downs of a life with Down Syndrome rather than get weighed down in the politics of the argument. As such, we decided on Tyler’s 1st birthday to create a Twitter account @JustTylerCove to do just that. What started off simply as a way to post some fun pictures, or provide updates on Tyler’s health and personal development (mostly for our own benefit and the sense of marking milestones and moments) has developed into something far beyond our original expectations. In February 2016, we tweeted a picture of Tyler in his new football shirt and asked some of the players to retweet it to their larger number of followers. Shortly after, a player responded with at first a retweet (which in itself was enough!) and then later that day, a message saying he would like to send Tyler a signed shirt. The story and the relationship between Tyler and the footballer developed over the following few months culminating with Tyler - at the request of the player himself - becoming one of the youngest mascots ever to lead the team out on a glorious August day in front of 17,500 supporters all chanting his name. We saw the player again, at a slightly more low key engagement, and during cuddles and a few games, the player remarked (not for the first time) “It’s that smile. It gets me every time.” We agree. It most certainly does. @JustTylerCove

2 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Issue 33 | January/February 2017 | Families Warwickshire

Pupdate Not long after we start the New Year, Eddie will be turning 7 months old, which is when the puppy equivalent of the terrible twos can kick in! As with our toddlers, consistency, patience, positive correction (praise), love and the indispensable glass of wine will hopefully see us through this stage! New IVF Clinic and Services arrive in As I look back over the past few months, since Stratford-upon-Avon Eddie joined our family, I can honestly say that he blood tests, injections and ultrasound scans before has made a hugely positive impact on our lives and The Stratford Clinic has partnered with Oxford egg collection. Only egg collection and embryo we couldn’t imagine not having him here. Yes, it Fertility, part of one of the largest providers of transfer procedures will be conducted in Oxford, has been hard at times and my patience is tested fertility care in the UK, to open Warwickshire reducing disruption to a patient’s life. on a regular basis but he is a very friendly and Fertility. It brings world-leading fertility treatments sociable puppy and is continually heading in the previously unavailable across the West Midlands, By choosing Warwickshire Fertility at The right direction with regards to his behaviour and giving couples local access to world-leading IVF Stratford Clinic, patients are also supporting the training – let’s hope the terrible twos pass us by techniques for the first time. sustainability of local NHS services. The clinic with minimal fuss! is a social enterprise, wholly owned by South Alongside access to new treatments, seeing a team Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust, and all profits of experts close to home will remove an element of are reinvested back into the NHS. Warwickshire stress to the IVF process. Until now couples across Fertility is part of The Fertility Partnership, one of Warwickshire experiencing problems conceiving the largest providers of fertility treatment in the have had to travel outside the county to receive UK. IVF treatment. Warwickshire Fertility opening means people can now make the vast majority of www.thefertilitypartnership.com NSPCC’s Schools Service appointments in Stratford, including multiple www.thestratfordclinic.co.uk needs Warwickshire volunteers On Yer Bike for Brain A groundbreaking NSPCC school programme, Tumour Research which aims to protect a generation of children against abuse, is asking for people from across The national spinathon event is back on Warwickshire to help them in their mission. The Saturday 25 February and Brain Tumour Speak Out. Stay Safe project teaches children aged Research is looking for teams to take part. 4 to 11 how to recognise and understand abuse Gathering a group of friends, family or work while giving them the confidence to speak out and colleagues is the most fun and easy way of seek help. Thanks to the hard work of dedicated taking part and raising sponsorship. Take volunteers, Speak Out. Stay Safe’s vital messaging turns pedalling and help raise vital funds has managed to reach over 6,000 pupils in more and awareness for brain tumours. Events can than 70 schools across Warwickshire - but more take place at anytime, anywhere and for any help is needed. duration. You can host your spinathon in a gym Keep fit and have fun of your choice or even at home on an exercise Anna Eeles, the county’s NSPCC Schools bike. Coordinator explains: “Our fantastic volunteers 's first trampoline park is now open! deliver assemblies to both key stage one and two With 30,000 square feet of trampolines and extreme www.braintumourresearch.org/onyerbike children. Year 5 and 6 classes can also request a sports activities, Rush Birmingham is the perfect workshop visit. Our aim is to reach every primary place for bouncers of all ages. school child twice in their primary school life and to do so; we need to expand our volunteer base. Rush UK are passionate about health and fitness The NSPCC provide expert training and advice and are keen for you to achieve the perfect balance PetStay Warwickshire Branch and volunteers in schools always work in pairs. between keeping fit and having fun. Incorporating Supporting our volunteers is key to our work – a trampoline into your fitness regime allows you to “We Love Dogs here at PetStay” without them we cannot hope to protect and experience low-impact, healthy fun that combines Providing a loving, safe Home Dog empower children within our communities.” core exercises, strength and conditioning exercises Boarding service for your dog whilst you with high intensity interval training (HIIT). Just one are away. If you have the confidence to speak in front of a hour on the trampolines will help you burn up to Fully Licensed and Insured group of primary school children and can commit 1000 calories. If trampolines are just not for you, www.petstay.net 01789 608021 to two monthly visits during term time, you can traditional classes are offered in the studios. find out more by contacting Anna Eeles on 0121 More Loving Dog Carers Wanted! 585 3943/07834 498366 or [email protected]. www.rushuk.com

CREATIVE Stop-motion Animation Felt making parties Workshops & Birthday Parties The perfect party activity for girls or boys of all ages ! For Mums... Learn with local artist and teacher l Free Workshops Ursula Westwood. l Joy Flights l The Revitalise Programme Choose your own theme. Two hour party for £15 per child For more information please contact Tina 07932 441 450 www.letsanimate.co.uk www.ursulawestwood.com [email protected] 0797 3354567 [email protected] 07802 901566 www.yournewwings.com

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familiesonline.co.uk 3 New Year New Year’s Resolutions By Tina Smith

There is something truly powerful about making a commitment out loud. We are making ourselves vulnerable, putting ourselves ‘out there’ for the world to see. As Dr. Brené Brown (researcher of vulnerability, courage, worthiness, and shame) says, “Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity.” So why, if it is so wonderful, do so many New Year’s resolutions get broken?

All too often, we think of New Year’s resolutions in the negative sense of ‘when will they be broken’ rather than when will they be accomplished. This is disappointing as the aspirations leading up to a new year, a new beginning, how we would like to change our life for the better give us great insight into what our ideal self would look like. There is so much to be gained by making statements about how we want to improve our lives. The problem is the gap in the middle, the space between where How to beat the January blues we are now and where we want to be. Once the excitement of Christmas is over and tug of war? Or tried snowball dodgeball? Once that It helps if you share your goals. If you tell a gone, it can often feel like a real struggle for the snowman is built, try frisbeeing a hat onto his head trusted friend, family member or coach who truly whole family to keep things fresh and lively at the or play a game of pin the nose on the snowman understands the reason behind the resolution, this beginning of a new year. However, there are so using a carrot. And everyone can join in a simple can immediately increase your chance of success. many opportunities for you to do things together game of tag, made a little more interesting if you're Choose wisely who you ask for support in your as a family - both indoors and out - that you'll soon only allowed to use the footprints of the other quest to change behaviour as it is their role to keep banish the January blues! Here are a few ideas to players! you accountable and to remind you of why you keep in mind. chose to change – especially in those moments Create rock pets when you are truly tempted to give up. Choose A family read-in The best way to blow away the cobwebs during poorly and they may just be the one to hand you When it's blowing a gale outside, there's no better January is to take the family for a long winter walk. the chocolate! way to spend an afternoon than snuggled up with It's great exercise, but it's even more fun if you a good book. For younger children you can encour- make your walk an excuse to collect items for some It is wonderful to have big aspirational goals, but age them to act out the story and show off your full winter crafting. the key is to break it down and be specific. Read more about this in Tina’s latest blog at range of funny faces and voices. For older children, Find a talking stick take the opportunity to discuss what they're read- www.yournewwings.com Another interesting find on your walk might be a ing in some depth - talk about plot and characters stick that transforms, with the help of some beads, and why they enjoy a particular type of book. Who Tina Smith is a local mum, Life Coach and feather, paint and markers into a wish stick for knows, you may even inspire them to try writing founder of Your New Wings younger children or a talking stick for the older their own story! members of your tribe. Talking sticks have a long Family Bake-Off history in tribal cultures as a way of allowing every- Who doesn't love the Great British Bake Off? Those one to have their say - you can only talk when hold- grey January days offer the perfect opportunity ing the stick - so, for larger families, this could be to get into the kitchen and bake up a storm. Let an ideal way for your children to create something younger children indulge in some messy play with that will ensure they're heard. their own bowl of cake mix or a piece of pastry - Look to the heavens don't get stressed about the mess but enjoy a real On a clear night, there's nothing better than wrap- opportunity to spend some creative time together ping up warm and heading outside to stargaze. in the kitchen. For older children, encourage Download an app and see how many constella- some healthy competition by going 'full Bake off' tions you can find and identify. Younger children and seeing who can produce the best cookies or will enjoy spotting stars and older ones can test cupcakes. their astronomical knowledge. Get creative in the garden Have a tech-free day Outdoor crafts are a wonderful way to liven up the Be brave and ban iPads, smartphones and games garden for pennies, using materials you can find consoles for the day. Instead put out a pile of blank outdoors or simply lying around the house. It's paper, pens and craft materials and see what your amazing how ice, berries and watercolours or food children can create. Boredom can be the best moti- colourings can transform tap water into beautiful vator for creativity. ice baubles to decorate the garden when set in in- teresting moulds. Or spread peanut butter all over Revive the art of den building the outside of an empty toilet roll holder or that For younger children, provide blankets, boxes and piece of over crunchy toast, then roll in birdseed to furniture indoors while encourage older children create an instant feeder that the children can hang to get outdoors and get den building in the garden near the kitchen or living room window. Add a bird or the woods. Find out who the Bear Grylls of book and they can pass a few hours identifying and the family is and who can create the best fantasy logging the birds that come to visit. Just make sure castle/spaceship/dragon's belly. Den building is for they wrap up warm! everyone, so get involved! Fun in the snow For more ideas on keeping the children active Of course, snow in January isn't guaranteed but if visit: www.familiesonline.co.uk/activities it does snow you have the ideal excuse to wrap up warm and organise snowman building contests and a monster snowball fight. Children of all ages love playing in the snow, but have you ever played

4 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 New Year, new start: how to divorce with dignity Sadly, statistics prove that many struggling couples stay together over the Use your support network Christmas period for the sake of their families. Whilst this is a selfless sacrifice, Don’t be afraid to ask for support from friends, family, your doctor, religious what it means is that January is often a busy month for divorce lawyers who organisation or a life coach if you are struggling. Mutual friends will not enjoy see an influx of enquiries from people who want take the opportunity of a being asked to take sides, but true friends will be happy to help. New Year to make major changes in their life. Rise above it So, how best can a divorce be managed with dignity and respect? Here are If your ex is being completely unreasonable, resist the temptation to stoop to some practical tips to help couples keep matters as amicable as possible. their level. It won’t make you feel any better and it won’t help in the long run. Accept that the other person may not be mentally or emotionally If you can come to an amicable agreement about divorce you will keep costs in the same place as you under control. A divorce is emotionally draining so you don’t want to make it Separating couples go through different stages, including shock, denial, anger, any harder for yourself than it already is. hurt, bargaining and acceptance. If you have been planning to leave your spouse for some time but they have no idea, it will probably come as quite a By Alison Ratchford, a divorce and family lawyer with specialist family law shock to them when they do find out. Whilst you have had time to come to firm Woolley & Co, Solicitors. If you’d like to arrange an amicable divorce terms with living without them, they have not. Try remembering that they may call Alison on 01789 336405 or visit www.family-lawfirm.co.uk be at a different stage in the process to you and be patient. Avoid seeking revenge This can be difficult, especially if you feel that you are the “wronged party”. Focusing on the past isn’t going to help when it comes to sorting out the future arrangements for your children or finances. If the emotional temperature has already been raised in “tit for tat” exchanges, it will be much more difficult to resolve big issues easily. Never use your children as pawns Don’t use children as a bargaining tool. You will both continue to co-parent your children for the rest of their lives. You could seriously risk alienating your children when they are old enough to realise what was going on. The break-up of their family unit is tough enough on children, so you must put your own feelings and emotions aside and provide as much love and stability for them as you possibly can, despite what’s going on. Keep communicating Keep talking to your spouse and keep communication civil. This will help in deciding practicalities where the children are concerned. Cutting communications can just make things more difficult and expensive. Looking for a Loving Alternative to Kennels? PetStay has been established since 2005 with 34 branches in the UK and is pleased to announce that the Warwickshire branch is open for business! A loving alternative to kennels, PetStay provides a professional home dog boarding service to many happy customers allowing your four legged friends to stay in a Your local divorce & carer’s home. Being away from their owners is always a difficult time for dogs but staying with a loving carer in a home environment, with their normal routines being kept, makes the whole experience so much less stressful – giving owners the family law specialists peace of mind that their dogs are being well cared for and having a holiday and adventure of their own! Caring, confidential legal advice PetStay’s carers are hand-picked, must meet strict criteria and are fully insured, 3 vetted and licensed by their local council. Before booking, you meet with the carer Divorce and separation to make sure you, the carer and most importantly your dog is happy. Only dogs 3 Getting a fair financial settlement from the same household are boarded together but some of the carers do have 3 Issues concerning children when separating their own welcoming pooches. Your dog’s happiness, safety and welfare are the 3 Legal arrangements before you marry or live together upmost priority when staying in a PetStay home. Interested in becoming a carer? Are you at home during the day? Do you have a very secure garden? Love dogs? Children over 7? Want to earn a little extra? Looking for something flexible to fit your lifestyle? Like to keep active and sociable? Want to join a professional service? For more information on booking a holiday home for your dog, finding out more about our service or to enquire about becoming a PetStay Dog Carer and joining the Warwickshire Team, contact Charlotte Lee on 01789 608 021, 07940 146 063 or [email protected] FREE telephone PetStay Prices: 1 appointment Dog £22.00 a day, Call Warwickshire based divorce & 2 Dogs £31.00 a family lawyer Alison Ratchford on day, 3 Dogs £40.00 01789 336405 or email a day. Prices are [email protected] per day, or part thereof, except Local meetings arranged at a time and place to suit you Bank Holidays. For more information www.family-lawfirm.co.uk regarding those rates, please 6 FREE downloadable guides contact Charlotte. available on our website www.petstay.net Woolley & Co is a member of the Law Society and authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Head office: Warwick Enterprise Park, Wellesbourne, Warwick, CV35 9EF

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familiesonline.co.uk 5 W&Co_87x130PR_AlisonRatchford.indd 1 06/09/2016 13:21 Clubs and Classes New New dance classes in Computing Studley Saturday Krystle Jayne’s Dance is delighted to announce the addition of new classes at Studley Club Village Hall which will start on Thursday 2 March. The British Motor Museum The classes will be Baby Ballet for 2 to 4 year olds at Gaydon is launching from 4pm to 4.30pm, followed by Pre-primary and a brand new Computing Primary Ballet and Tap for 4 to 7 year olds from Saturday Club which will 4.30pm to 5.15pm. run from 4 March to 8 April. The cost for the 6 x 1 hour sessions is £45 per child and includes free entry to Established in 2008 by Principle Krystle Gerrard, the Museum for one accompanying adult. the dance school strikes the perfect balance between enjoyment and learning, enabling the Your child will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge of coding and pupils to express their personality and creativity, and develop their skills in a get the chance to explore the Museum’s extensive collection of British cars friendly environment. Students have the opportunity to take RAD and IDTA over a 6 week period of exciting workshops. Suitable for 5 to 11 year olds, this exams and in the last Warwickshire IDTA session, 66% of students passed with fantastic Saturday Club offers children the chance to consolidate and improve distinction, the top grade band. their computing knowledge while having fun and making new friends. The school also runs classes in Claverdon, Henley-in-Arden and Northampton. SESSION 1: 3D Animated Movies For more information or to book in for a free trial, contact Krystle on 07791 Age 5-8 years (KS1) 10.30am-11.30am 852891 or [email protected]. Using a range of cool characters, children will create a 3D animated adventure and turn it into a movie to share! www.krystlejaynedanceacademy.co.uk SESSION 2: Build Amazing 3D Models with SketchUp Age 9-11 years (KS2) 11.45am–12.45pm Ballet, tap, modern & Students will learn to create 3D shapes and models, stretching their street dance classes imagination to develop the mansion of their dreams! ® Classes available from 21/2 years For full details and to book a place visit www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk warwickshire Free trial & sibling discounts IDTA & RAD exams wishes you a taken annually Dancing develops skills for life Biannual show happy & active Classes in Claverdon, At the Rutleigh Norris School Call 07791 852891 Wootton Wawen & Studley of Dance, children are New Year www.krystlejaynedanceacademy.co.uk encouraged not only to be the best dancer they can be, but to be the best person they can be too. The school believes that the act of learning to be a Computing Saturday Club dancer is beneficial to children 4 March - 8 April in so many ways – not only does it improve poise, control, Learn to create and code your own strength and coordination 3D animations in 6 x 1 hr sessions but it also helps children to develop concentration, 5 - 8 years & 9 - 11 years respect, courtesy and the ability to remember. Whether the pupil enjoys dancing as hobby or is pursuing a vocation, at Rutleigh Norris every pupil is britishmotormuseum.co.uk nurtured to be the best dancer they can be. Their self-confidence and self- J12 M40 . Gaydon . Warwickshire . CV35 0BJ esteem is boosted and the study of dance encourages perseverance as well as GET SOCIAL... improving social and creative skills. Rutleigh Norris School of Dance specialises in the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance Classical Ballet Syllabi, and also offers Modern Jazz and Tap Dance classes. Each lesson is taught in a professional, caring environment where the 6 week block: £45 per child children can enjoy excelling whilst feeling safe and valued. Founded in 1959, the school has been providing their pupils in Alcester, Moseley and Bournville with a superior quality of teaching for the past 57 years. www.rnsd.co.uk Want the best for your Outstanding child through music? sports facilities for all Did you know that has a Sports Centre which is open to the public? Warwickshire Music offers: The facilities includes a 25m • Instrumental and vocal tuition by fully qualified teachers swimming pool, a well-equipped • Wide variety of after school music groups fitness suite, two squash courts • Music theatre groups and a sports hall, in which you’ll • Specialist groups including Suzuki strings and drum school find 5 badminton courts and a • Performance opportunities throughout the year modern and highly impressive 7.5m high climbing wall. “Thank you very much for a great 7 years of music. Tours, concerts and weekly practices with various CMS groups form some of my Membership of Warwick Sports fondest memories and were certainly a wonderful opportunity.” Centre costs from £28 per month and there is no joining fee. The swim only Sam - member of the County Youth Orchestra and Wind Band. membership costs just £18 per month. For more details about the Sports T: 01926 745111 [email protected] Centre and the types of membership available, please visit the website. www.warwickshiremusichub.org www.warwickschoolsportscentre.org

6 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Clubs & Classes Kids Art Club

DANCE CLASSES H Southam Spanish & French Classes in Leamington Spa, & surrounding areas. Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri & Sat H Leamington Music, instruments, Fridays H bubbles, ADULT sensory play, Sundays CLASSES TOO! dance, puppets, H Barford elements of Saturdays baby massage H Cawston & yoga Mondays and Fridays Book your FREE Trial Lesson Call Claire on 07774 518949 Art Group Studios [email protected] [email protected] 07815 149877 www.bilinguasing.com www.loveballet.co.uk www.art-group-studios.co.uk

Kyokushin Karate Kenilworth Dojo Fun, educationalFun, educational DANCE WITH DASH From Tokyo to Kenilworth IntroduIntrodu ce you ce r you r • Quality dance classes in Training Wednesdays & multi-sensory& multi-sensory Shipston-on-Stour 4.30pm-5.30pm (children) baby tochildbaby a to a • From 18 months to adults 5.30pm-6.30pm (adults) music classesmusic classes for for • Ballet Tap Modern and Jazz world of sou nd, • British Ballet Organization world of sou nd, babies, babies,toddlers toddlers & & (BBO) syllabus Introdu ce you r Fun, educational • Pre-School Melody Bear songsbaby andsongs to mu a and sic & mu multi-sensory sic pre-schoolers pre-schoolers class Free music classes for world trial! of sou nd, babies, toddlers & T: 07970 742256 Clarendon Hall (inside St Nicholas Hall) High St, KenilworthFree Fun, educational & multi-sensory E: [email protected] trial!songs and mumusic sic classes forpre-schoolers babies, www.dancewithdash.co.uk Facebook: Kyokushin Kenilworth Dojo toddlers & pre-schoolers Ca ll Ra che l: 0746918 6042 Free trial! www.rhythmtime.net/rt38Ca ll Ra che l: 0746918 6042

07469Ca ll Ra 186042 che l: 0746918 6042 [email protected] Call Claire on 01926 335004 or email ® [email protected] to promote your business in the next issue r hythm time.net/RT26 Sportswarwickshire Centre 180 by 130 Dec 2016_Layout 1 16/12/2016 15:17 Page 1 rhythmr hythm time.net/rt38time.net/RT26 r hythm time.net/RT26

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Warwick School sports centre facilities include: 25m Swimming Pool OPEN Fitness Suite TO ALL Personal Fitness Area Squash Courts No Joining Sports Hall Fee Monthly Peak Time Membership from only £28.00 per month Swim Only Membership from £18.00 per month

Outstanding facilities at affordable prices For more information: ✆ 01926 776466 www.warwickschoolsportscentre.org Warwick School Sports Centre, Myton Road, Warwick. CV34 6PP

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familiesonline.co.uk 7 Education

A fearless start to the year Why fearless you might ask? And what does this even mean? For Explore Learning, a child’s educational journey goes beyond How to make maths fun for kids acing a quick spelling test or Maths is one of the fundamental know when their goodies are ready Make it more formal getting to the top of the class for a skills that all children need to to come out of the oven. Meanwhile, As your children's maths skills term. It is about building long- acquire, and there are plenty of every time you go to the shops, progress, you can begin to make lasting confidence that takes them ways you can make maths fun encourage them to add as they go their home learning more formalised. through their entire life, whether it through the use of games and and then make their best estimate There are any number of online is through developing a ‘have a go maths activities at home. of the final bill. From calculating the maths resources available and your attitude’, or knowing it’s ok to put change they should receive when school may encourage at-home use Numeracy targets are fundamental their hand up without fear of a ‘silly’ they buy an ice cream to keeping of a programme like Mathletics to to the National Curriculum and to question being mocked, or simply score in a friendly game of football, challenge and reinforce skills learned primary school testing and that can feeling excited about their next everyday maths really is everywhere! in the classroom. These online seem as intimidating to you as to your step. It’s about nurturing a sense resources usually feature progressive child. However, there are some simple of pride, and a fearless attitude to Make tech and tables count levels so you can easily track your strategies you can put in place that learning, so that every child can There are numerous maths apps child's progress but do check, before can make maths fun for your children become their version of amazing. available for children of all ages, you sign up to a paid programme, and reinforce how important those from simple counting games to that it's compatible with the National Explore’s incredible tutors are there life skills are. more advanced calculations. Doodle Curriculum. Although it's easy to to support every step of the way. Maths and Mr Thorne's Maths Rather than a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’, The way maths is taught in schools assume that children will prefer has changed fundamentally over the Universe should get even committed working on the computer, many also they will ask “are you sure?” or “can young mathphobes practising you convince me of your answer?” past few years so you may end up enjoy age-appropriate workbooks, learning something new, too! their numeracy on their tablets and with stickers to reward their progress. allowing children to explore and smartphones. Sing Your Times Tables push the boundaries of their Do your homework with Percy Parker and Squeebles Learn with and from your thinking each day. Before you can support your child's Times Tables are both excellent apps children To celebrate the New Year and all maths learning at home, you'll need for embedding times tables in young As the family maths toolkit points of the potential it brings, Explore to find out about the way they learn brains. Why not try singing along out, maths is not a can or cannot Learning would like to offer you maths at school. Do some homework with Percy Parker on your next long subject but something we can all a little something to help your on modern maths methods like car journey? For older children facing improve on, however old we are. child along their fearless learner number lines and gridding, and find their end of primary school tests, When your children start to bring journey. From 16 January until 28 out whether your child's school offers ensure that they know not just the home maths homework, take the February, you’ll save £50 when you maths support classes for parents. multipliers but the divisors too, up to opportunity to learn about new join any one of Explore’s maths and If not, there are some excellent 12 x 12. maths concepts from them and show resources available online like the them real world examples of how English tuition centres. To find out Try gamification which one is closest to you and to family maths toolkit from national to put those skills into practice - by numeracy or the 'Maths for Mums and In other words, get out some old checking your shopping or phone bill. book your free trial, check out the fashioned board games. Children website: Dads' books by Mike Askew and Rob Encourage them to contextualise a Eastaway. learn best when an activity is fun, and newly acquired skill by putting it into www.explorelearning.co.uk/offer they're usually unaware that they're practice around the home, whether Maths by stealth learning through playing games. it's telling you the time their favourite There are plenty of ways you can Dominoes is an excellent game for TV show comes on or estimating incorporate maths into everyday practising basic maths concepts, as is how long their bath takes to run. And life, which is an excellent way of Snakes and Ladders. They'll be having always praise their effort rather than letting children know how important too much fun to notice they're adding their talent, to reinforce the message numeracy skills are outside of the and subtracting and recognising that by working hard anyone can classroom. Next time you have a basic number patterns. For older improve their maths skills. cake or a pizza, ask them to divide children, Monopoly introduces it into quarters or thirds or an even more sophisticated numeracy skills To find out more about helping number of portions for the number and Scrabble is a brilliant way to your child learn visit: www. of people eating it. Baking isn't just a practise both numeracy and literacy. familiesonline.co.uk/education pleasurable activity to do with your Board games are also valuable for children, it's one of the very best introducing related concepts like ways of embedding the importance strategy, logic and reasoning skills of weights and measures. They'll also into the mix. need to keep an eye on the clock to

8 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Education

Rock with Shakespeare

Primary school children across the nation are set to rock with Shakespeare in March for Shakespeare Week, the annual national schools celebration of Shakespeare. Kicking off Shakespeare Week 2017 will be the Big Assembly, where primary schools can join in the celebrations with a new song composed by Shakespeare Rocks’ Steve Titford. This year Shakespeare Week takes place 20-26 March and has a music theme. Jacqueline Green, Head of Learning and Participation at the Experts in providing an outstanding education for boys and girls from 4 to 18. Shakespeare Birthplace Trust said: At Arnold Lodge School, we believe that happy children We are hosting our Reception Open Afternoon on “The music theme will give primary learn. Our school ethos is centred around ensuring each Wednesday 11 January from 1.30pm to 3.30pm. If you school teachers the opportunity child is happy, confident and aspirational because we would like to attend, please register your place at to take music into their classrooms know this will allow them to make phenomenal progress www.arnoldlodge.com or call 01926 778050. Every day is and, with their children, to discover in school and to be successful in the future. This ethos, an open day at Arnold Lodge - if you would like to visit the Shakespeare in new, intriguing and coupled with excellent teaching, a varied curriculum and school please register your details at www.arnoldlodge. fun ways!” fantastic pastoral support, brings out the best in all of our com. We do have a limited number of assisted places Shakespeare Week is a free scheme pupils. available - to find out more please contact us at [email protected]. for primary school children and their From our Reception class through to Sixth Form, we families, run by the Shakespeare offer an outstanding education tailored to the individual. Arnold Lodge is a school of excellence, but it is also one Birthplace Trust. To register, access Each child brings vastly different experiences, abilities of friendship and respect. Our pupils are taught to be the free resources and take part in and needs to our school and this uniqueness should be best they can be and to aspire to reach their goals while Shakespeare Week 2017, visit celebrated. treating others with respect and kindness. www.shakespeareweek.org.uk www.arnoldlodge.com

An Independent Day School and Nursery for boys aged 3-7 and girls aged 3-11 Princethorpe inspires,

Places still available and helps students for September 2017 to be the very best they can be. Ask the parents if you don’t believe meme! Helen Pascoe-Williams – English Teacher and da Vinci Programme Co-ordinator.

Open Morning Entrance Assessments To find out what Princethorpe can do for you, visit our Saturday 28 January 2017 for Year 3+ Open Morning - Thursday 12 January 2017, 9.30am – 12.00noon Monday 27 February 2017 10.30am - 12.30pm.

Warwick Preparatory School, Bridge Field, Banbury Road, Warwick CV34 6PL Entrance Examinations Day - 11+, 12+, 13+ and 14+ [email protected] | 01926 491545 | www.warwickprep.com Saturday 21 January 2017, 9.00am - 3.00pm.

Princethorpe College For information call 01926 634201 An independent school for 11-18 year olds or visit princethorpe.co.uk Warwick Preparatory School is part of the Warwick Independent Schools Foundation, together with A Princethorpe Foundation School. Registered Charity Number 1087124. King’s High School and Warwick School, providing high quality education for boys and girls aged 3-18.

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familiesonline.co.uk 9 Education Books to inspire picky eaters

Feed your fussy eater’s imagination Oliver’s Vegetables Monsters Don’t Eat Broccoli I Will Not Ever Never Eat a with these clever and humorous by Vivian French by Barbara Jean Hicks and Sue Tomato books which will inspire even Hendra by Lauren Child the pickiest of children to start This book exploring the wonderful world of is aimed In this stunning food. Good luck! at parents picture book, with a picky the monsters Bread and Jam for Frances eater at the insist that by Russell Hoban dinner table! they don't This story eat broccoli; This lovely tells the tale despite the book tells the of young fact that story of Frances Oliver who tractors and who loves loves chips so much that he refuses rocket ships bread and jam to eat anything else! Well, until his look EXACTLY so much she grandfather plays a game with him like broccoli! Maybe vegetables aren't eats it at every where he must eat every vegetable so bad after all? single meal! At he finds in the garden! least that's until Tea Time for Pirates she realises I Do Not Eat the Colour by Richard Dungworth what else she's Green missing. This charming tale will keep by Lynne Rickards Little Lola is a really picky eater; she parents and children entertained! won't eat peas, carrots, mushrooms, Green Eggs and Ham eggs or sausages - and most by Dr Seuss definitely NOT tomatoes! Well, until her brother Charlie explains to her This fantastic that actually peas are small green story teaches drops from Greenland and carrots are little ones orange twiglets from Jupiter - this that you fun-filled book will keep your children never know entertained and you never know; whether you they may even start to eat their veg! like something For more amazing books for your or not until Packed with fantastic rhymes and you've tried it! children, visit www.familiesonline. funny illustrations, this book is a co.uk/bookclub With Dr Seuss' This fun, engaging book is ideal for perfect story for picky eaters, telling unique combination of funny rhymes young fussy eaters. Showcasing the tale of how Captain Cutlass and cool characters, this book will be the tale of Marlene McKean; this convinces his crew that sausages, See page 12 for a yummy a delightful read for both adults and story is all about how little Marlene carrots, mash and peas will make Pasta Bake recipe. children. absolutely hates the colour green them big and strong!

Independent Schools Contact Details and Open Days Arnold Lodge Crackley Hall School and Little Senior Schools Leamington Spa Crackers Nursery Leamington Spa Bablake Senior School Kenilworth T: 01926 421368 T: 01926 778050 Coventry T: 01926 514444 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] T: 024 7627 1200 E: [email protected] www.thekingsleyschool.com www.arnoldlodge.com E: [email protected] www.crackleyhall.co.uk Weds 11 Jan, 1.30pm-3:30pm: www.bablake.com Reception Open Afternoon Tues 17 Jan, 10am-3pm: Open Day Stratford Preparatory School Weds 8 Feb, 1.30pm-3.30pm: Reception Sat 11 Mar 10.30am-12.30pm: Open Stratford-upon-Avon King Henry VIII Senior School Morning T: 01789 297993 Taster Afternoon Coventry E: [email protected] T: 024 7627 1111 The Croft Preparatory School www.stratfordprep.co.uk Bablake Pre Prep E: [email protected] Stratford-upon-Avon Thurs 12 Jan, 10am-2pm & 6pm-8pm: Coventry www.kinghenrys.co.uk T: 01789 293795 Open Day T: 024 7622 1677 Tues 7 Feb: Open House E: [email protected] E: [email protected] www.croftschool.co.uk Warwick Preparatory School King’s High Sat 18 Mar: Early Years & KS1 Open Day Warwick Bablake Junior School Warwick Tues 28 Mar: Whole School Open Day T: 01926 491545 Coventry T: 01926 494485 E: [email protected] T: 024 7627 1260 E: [email protected] Henley Montessori Primary and www.warwickprep.com E: [email protected] www.kingshighwarwick.co.uk www.bablakejuniorschool.co.uk Merrydays Montessori Nursery Sat 28 Jan, 9.30am-12pm: Open Sat 21 Jan 10am-12pm: Open Morning Henley-in-Arden Morning T: 01564 792427 Rugby E: [email protected] Warwick School T: 01926 634201 www.henleymontessori.co.uk Warwick Rugby E: [email protected] T: 01926 776400 T: 01788 810217 www.princethorpe.co.uk King Henry VIII Prep School E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Thurs 12 Jan, 10.30am-12.30pm: Open Coventry www.warwickschool.org www.biltongrange.co.uk Morning Sat 4 Mar 10.30am-1pm: Open Morning T: 024 7627 1307 Sat 14 Jan, 10am-12pm: Junior School E: [email protected] Open Morning Warwick School www.khps.co.uk Warwick Tues 7 Feb: Open House T: 01926 776400 E: [email protected] www.warwickschool.org

10 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 Education Enquire now YES. A 30% IMPROVEMENT IN MATHS. SHALL I EXPLAIN THE FIGURES? for September Our maths and 2017 English tutors are here to build “ The quality of the pupils’ confidence, achievements and learning is and we’ve got excellent.” (ISI, 2016) independent research to prove the difference we make.

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Ofsted registered Action-packed EY476056 childcare this February Lots of activities and sports to Half Term choose from Junior School only New Open Morning Leamington Spa CV32 6RD Standard Monday 20th - Friday 24th February Hours Saturday, 14 January 2017 8am - 4pm 10.00am - 12.00pm Open from 8am - 6pm DAYS *Offer ends 5pm Independent boys’ school (7-11 years) Friday 3rd February FOR Valid for full week 8am – 4pm 5 Scholarships and bursaries available bookings only. Xtra Time We accept packages available if required. childcare 01926 776418 ∣ [email protected] vouchers www.warwickschool.org £75 For more info visit aspire-sports.co.uk or call 01926 298 178

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familiesonline.co.uk 11 Holiday Clubs February Half Term Holiday Competition Clubs, Camps and Workshops To celebrate the brand new production of The Quite Remarkable Coolsportz Adventures of the Owl and the Pussycat Warwickshire College Henley-in- at the Belgrade Theatre, Families Arden and Warwick Tennis Club (opp racecourse) Warwick Warwickshire is giving away a family Mon 20-Fri 24 Feb, 9am-12pm, 12pm-3pm ticket to one lucky winner! or 9am-3pm Fun multi-sports activities - tennis, football, This fantastically imaginative table tennis, parachute and more. For ages new musical adaptation of Eric Idle’s best-selling book is a celebration of 4-15 years. nonsense, and is sure to enthral and delight children aged 6+, their families T: 07912 664426 and anyone with a sense of fun and wonder. www.coolsportz.co.uk For your chance to WIN, simply email your name, phone number and Motionhouse Dance Classes postcode to [email protected] and write ‘Owl and Pussycat’ Spencer Yard Leamington Spa in the subject. Mon 20 & Tues 21 Feb, 11am-4pm Junior Dance Days for ages 8-11. DEADLINE Monday 6 February Weds 22 & Thurs 23 Feb, 11am-4pm The Quite Remarkable Adventures of the Owl and the Pussycat runs at Aspire Active Camps Teens Intensive for ages 12-18. North Leamington School Leamington Spa Fri 24 Feb, 11.15am-12.15pm the Belgrade Theatre from Saturday 18 February to Saturday 4 March. Mon 20-Fri 24 Feb, 8am-4pm Mini Movers for ages 5-7. Tickets are available now by calling the theatre’s Box Office team on (extended care available) T: 01926 887052 024 7655 3055 or visit www.belgrade.co.uk. Aspire Active Camps provide sports and www.motionhouse.co.uk (Competition Terms & Conditions will be issued on receipt of entry) activity childcare during every school holiday throughout the year for children between 4 and 14 years old. At the GO4GOALS February half term Active Camp at North Kingsley School playing fields Leamington School, children will have lots Leamington Spa Spring Family of fun at the Multi Sports Academy with its Weds 22 & Thurs 23 Feb, 9am-4pm (early exciting timetable of activities including drop off 8.30am) Favourites at scooters, nerf target games and skid bikes. Football or multi sports camps for ages 4 to Also running will be the Football Academy 11. Indoor option if the weather is bad. Warwick Arts and the Gym Beatz Academy. Book before T: 07747 562469 5pm on Friday 3 February to receive the www.go4goals.co.uk early bird offer of 5 days for £75 (8am – Centre 4pm. Xtra Time available if required). Activate Sport Family shows are, once again, at the T: 01926 298178 Warwick School Warwick heart of Warwick Arts Centre’s Spring www.aspire-sports.co.uk Tues 21-Thurs 23 Feb, 9.30am-4.30pm 2017 programme. From the West (extended care available) Louis Smith Gymnastics Academy. End hit and global theatrical dance Holiday Action phenomenon Stomp, to the exciting Warwick School Warwick Coaching, games and activities for children Mon 20-Fri 24 Feb aged 5-14. explorations in Tree by Coventry’s own Highly Sprung, the venue promises 5 days of short courses for 6-12 year T: 01785 711572 to delight children and parents alike. Travel through the landscapes of olds. Courses to include: Multi-sport www.activatesport.co.uk Shakespeare’s imagination with Oily Cart’s In a Pickle, an interactive adaptation and swim, Lego, Mash up 3D and TV of The Winter’s Tale commissioned by the RSC. Discover the stunningly presenter computer courses, Table Tennis, Onside Coaching colourful productions of Wow! Said the Owl and White; watch the magic of Mad Science, Badminton, Art and craft, Venues in Warwick, Stratford, Southam sizzling puppetry bring stripy felines and a big white cuddly polar bear to life Basketball, Dance plus Activate Gym for and Meon Vale. with the sing-a-long hit The Tiger Who Came to Tea and the heartwarming tale children aged 5-14. Mon 20-Fri 24 Feb of The Bear. Not only that, but if you have some budding actors in the family, T: 01926 735473 Multi sports, football and dance. www.warwickschool.org/holiday- T: 01926 496406 then check out the Play in a Day workshop for 8-14 year-olds. activities www.onsidecoaching.co.uk Head to www.warwickartscentre.co.uk for loads more information. Roasted Vegetables Pasta Bake Siobhan Berry of Mummy Cooks (mummycooks.ie) shares her tried and tested favourite that grown-ups will enjoy as much as children. Siobhan says: “Pesto is always a great hit in our house and this recipe allows To freeze: Cool completely. Cover and freeze. Allow to thaw in the fridge for more vegetables to be added. I find that kids are more likely to try new overnight. Preheat oven to 190oC/375oF/Gas 5. Cook for 20 minutes, until vegetables with their favourite sauce on top. Roasting vegetables also makes piping hot them a little sweeter, so they are certain to enjoy this dish.” To serve straight away: Cook in the oven for 15 minutes at 190oC and place Makes 8 adult portions (freeze half for another day) in the centre of your table and allow your children to serve themselves, encouraging them to taste any new vegetables. 2 large red onions 1 large aubergine As mum of two young girls Ashleigh (6) and Jessica (4), Siobhan Berry at 2 large courgettes Mummy Cooks is passionate about nutritious, home-cooked food. She wants to 2 red and orange pepper, deseeded and sliced inspire, educate and empower parents to feed their children healthy, home- 4 tbsp olive oil cooked food. Siobhan believes that cooking is a fun activity that brings families 4 tbsp pesto together. 250ml crème fraiche Freshly ground black pepper www.MummyCooks.ie 500g pasta, cooked (I use wholegrain pasta) 150g cheddar cheese, grated 1. Chop all the vegetables and preheat the oven to 190oC/375oF/Gas 5. 2. On a roasting dish, toss the vegetables in a drizzle of olive oil and roast in the oven for 40 minutes, until cooked and golden at the edges. 3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to the boil. Add the pasta and cook for about 6 minutes. Since you will be cooking the pasta for a second time in the oven, you want to make sure the inside is still hard. 4. Put the pesto and crème fraiche into a saucepan, season with ground black pepper, then heat gently for 2 minutes, stirring. 5. Mix the pasta and vegetables into the sauce. At this stage, I divide the mixture in two using one portion straight away and the second I freeze. Spoon the mixture into ovenproof dish, sprinkle with cheese.

12 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 What's on

Welcome to Jungle Town! An inspiring children’s play experience encouraging imagination & Nature Inspired Gift Shop play and development! The UK’s Largest Tropical Butterfly Paradise! Open All Year

Butterflies • Birds • Ants • Iguanas

The Grand Reopening of and so much more…. Market Hall Museum Please check website for latest news & last entry times Warwickshire Museum in Warwick’s market square is set to reopen on Swan’s Nest Lane, Stratford -upon-Avon Saturday 18 February after a £1.1 million refurbishment. With brand Open at Stratford Garden Centre Warwickshire, CV37 7LS new exhibits, returning old favourites and digital interactives, the Tel. 01789 299288 relaunch week will involve a series of exciting, fun and family-friendly Visit www.jungletown.co.uk [email protected] activities for everyone to enjoy. Head along at 10.30am on the day www.butterflyfarm.co.uk and be one of the first to step inside the new look museum. Drop in or call 01789 296637 any time from 10.30am to 5pm, try out one of the new family museum trials and take part in other free activities. The museum’s new design focuses on increased accessibility, to deliver a public space suitable for the whole community. There’s also a brand new family-friendly café complemented by a revamped retail offer, celebrating local history and crafts.

Find out about the Saturday celebration and the following full week’s events at 4-5 Henley Street, http://heritage.warwickshire.gov.uk Stratford Upon Avon, CV37 6PT www.theMADmuseum.co.uk Join the dwellers on a journey deep into the Family Shows heart of Tree and further still to put right what is 01789 269356 wrong. For ages 4+. The Tempest Box Office: 024 7652 4524 Royal Shakespeare Theatre Stratford-upon-Avon www.warwickartscentre.co.uk Until Sat 21 Jan This RSC family show is the perfect introduc- Justin’s Party tion to Shakespeare for young theatregoers Leamington Spa and families. It uses technology never used on Weds 15 Feb stage in this way before, creating a magical and Justin Fletcher is coming to town and YOU are in- unforgettable theatrical experience. vited to the party! A brand new show, packed full Quote ‘Families Warwickshire’ Box Office: 01789 403493 of fantastic songs, dances and hilarious games and get 10% discount! www.rsc.org.uk guaranteed to make it THE party of the year! Box Office: 01926 334418 The Jungle Book www.royalspacentreandtownhall.co.uk Bridge House Theatre Warwick Fri 13 & Sat 14 Jan The Quite Remarkable Adventures A fantastic, empowering story for all ages that of the Owl and the Pussycat will warm your heart and lift your spirits. Music, The Belgrade Theatre Coventry muppetry, laughter and excitement all mixed-up BRICK WEEK Sat 18-Feb-Sat 4 Mar to make a memorable experience for the whole This fantastically imaginative new musical family. adaptation of Eric Idle’s best-selling book is a Help us build a life size Mini out of Box Office: 01926 776438 celebration of nonsense, and is sure to enthral www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk and delight children aged 6+, their families and LEGO® bricks anyone with a sense of fun and wonder. The Boy Who Bit Picasso Box Office: 024 7655 3055 Bridge House Theatre Warwick www.belgrade.co.uk Sun 29 Jan 18 - 26 February An interactive theatre show for everyone aged Wow! Said the Owl four and up. With storytelling, music and lots of Warwick Arts Centre Coventry chances to make your own art, this hands-on and Tues 21-Thurs 23 Feb Join us for a week of LEGO brick hilarious family show introduces one of the 20th Explore the wow-world of colours with this curi- century’s most influential artists through the ous little owl who is determined to stay awake to building challenges! eyes of a young boy. see what daylight brings. For ages 2-5. Box Office: 01926 776438 Box Office: 024 7652 4524 www.bridgehousetheatre.co.uk www.warwickartscentre.co.uk STOMP Running Wild Warwick Arts Centre Coventry The Belgrade Theatre Coventry Tues 31 Jan-Sat 4 Feb Weds 22-Sat 25 Feb An infectious mix of percussion, dance, theatre Michael Morpurgo’s novel, based on a true story, and comedy with an exhilarating soundtrack is brought to lush life with extraordinary heart, inspired by the commotion of everyday life. vibrant colour and exceptional creativity. This Box Office: 024 7652 4524 epic and spectacular production tells an emo- www.warwickartscentre.co.uk tional and moving story of love, loss, loyalty and of living for the moment. In a Pickle Box Office: 024 7655 3055 britishmotormuseum.co.uk Warwick Arts Centre Coventry www.belgrade.co.uk J12 M40 . Gaydon . Warwickshire . CV35 0BJ Weds 1-Sun 5 Feb GET SOCIAL... A total theatre experience for young children The Bear with lots of sensory delights, including beautiful Warwick Arts Centre Coventry costumes, enchanting live music, lovely per- Fri 24-Sun 26 Feb fumes and delightful textures. For ages 3-5. A heart-warming wintry tale, with dazzling pup- Box Office: 024 7652 4524 petry, delicious music, dreamy storytelling, and www.warwickartscentre.co.uk dozens of laughs. Bring a bear, and join Tilly and her great big white friend on a wild adventure. Buy 1 day get 12 months free* Tree For ages 3-8. Warwick Arts Centre Coventry Box Office: 024 7652 4524 * See website for full terms and conditions Thurs 2 Feb www.warwickartscentre.co.uk Tree, home to two lost children, is under threat.

@familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familiesonline.co.uk 13 What's on Days Out – places to go and things to do! Here are a few ideas for fantastic days out. See the What’s On pages of www.familiesonline.co.uk for more!

British Motor Museum Gaydon Redwings Horse Sanctuary Oxhill apple feeder. FREE Drop in & join in. exciting interactive family area where you Sat 18-Sun 26 Feb Open every Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon, 10am to Sat 25 Feb can customise a real car bonnet using pin Brick Week 4pm Art Cart Family Fun - Design your own striping techniques, race your cars down a Join in with a week of automotive themed Home to almost 90 rescued horses, ponies pocket monster using air drying clay. ramp with loop the loops, and celebrate on brick building challenges! Help build a and donkeys. Meet residents large and Sat 18 Feb, 2pm-2.45pm, 3pm-3.45pm & our winner’s podium. Take part in drop in life size Mini out of LEGO® bricks; 25 Brick small from Shire to Shetland. Café and 4pm-4.45pm activities, £3 per child - children of any age Challenge; LEGO® Minifigure Museum trail; gift shop, plus the opportunity to adopt a Taiko Drumming Workshop are welcome but activities are particularly Under 5s fun with foam bricks. horse. Entry is free. Discover the amazing sound of Taiko, the suitable for aged 4+. T: 01926 641188 T: 0870 040 0033 big drums of Japan, in these hands on, Sat 18-Sat 25 Feb (excl Sun), 10.30am-3.30pm www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk www.redwings.org.uk/visiting family friendly workshops. FREE. Places are Balloon Powered Car limited so call to book. Suitable for children Create a car that runs on balloon power. Stratford Butterfly Farm Herbert Art Gallery Coventry aged 6+. Children must be accompanied Make your racer then fuel it by inflating the Stratford-upon-Avon Until Sun 15 Jan 2017 by an adult. balloon. Sat 18-Sun 26 Feb Brick Wonders Thurs 23 Feb, 11.30am, 2pm, 2.45pm & Wind Up Racer Come rain or shine, discover some of the See some of most iconic man-made, 3.30pm Get creative using simple household items world’s most beautiful and spectacular natural and ancient wonders of the world, Art Club - Create a Japanese style dish and your wind up spool racer will be racing butterflies. Take part in daily Meet the Mini- made of Lego. FREE. based on the beautiful bronze example in across the room in no time. Beast handling sessions in the Discovery Sat 18-Sat 25 Feb (excl Sun), 10.30am-3.30pm our collections. Use decoupage techniques Hot Rods: Racing Cups Zone and get up close to African snails, Playful Self-Portraits to create a container for your treasured Who would imagine a drinking cup would millipedes and a variety of stick insects. A week packed full of different craft possessions. Half hour sessions. FREE. make an awesome hot rod racer? In this The Minibeast Metropolis is teeming with workshops. Learn specialist art skills to Places are allocated on a first come, first experiment, you’ll construct a simple and life and home to an amazing leafcutter help you create unique self-portraits. £2 served basis. Suitable for children up to fun racer that converts potential energy ant colony, one of the largest on display per child 12 years. into kinetic energy. in the UK! Mon 20 Feb, 10.30am-12.30pm & 1.30pm- T: 01926 74200 Sat 18-Sun 26 Feb, 10am-3.30pm T: 01789 299288 3.30pm www.warwickdc.gov.uk/ Supersonic: Family Trail www.butterflyfarm.co.uk Sketching Masterclass royalpumprooms Complete this fun family trail and learn all Delve into the wonderful world of drawing about speed in our Supersonic exhibition. Hatton Adventure World and sharpen your sketching skills inspired The MAD Museum £1.50 Nr Warwick by our portraits exhibition. Book online in Stratford-upon-Avon T: 024 7623 4270 Fantastic day out for all the family. Indoor advance. £5 per child, suitable for ages 7+. Housing an impressive collection of www.transport-museum.com and outdoor attractions and entertainment T: 024 7623 7521 eccentric and ingenious creations. Interact all year round. www.theherbert.org with eccentric artworks, contraptions and Warwick Sat 18-Sun 26 Feb machines, build marble runs on the giant Fri 17-Sat 25 Feb Have fun at the Big Top Bonanza, a brand Leamington Spa Art Gallery & MAD Marbles wall. A fun place to visit for all Enjoy a fun-packed, full day out at Warwick new spectacular Circus Show. Amazing Museum the family. Free family activity sheets. Castle this half term where fearsome Acrobats and Awesome Aerialists, Comical Sat 28 Jan, 1pm-3pm T: 01789 269356 fireballs, soaring eagles and the agility and Clowns and Champion Jugglers, Zoobee Art Cart Extra – The Big Garden Bird www.themadmuseum.co.uk power of our resident bowman are all on with his Magic and Puppet Shows. PLUS all Watch show! Enter the Horrible Histories Maze the usual Hatton Favourites. Enjoy an afternoon of birdwatching with Coventry Transport Museum and get lost in time! T: 01926 843411 the RSPB, using telescopes and binoculars Coventry T: 0871 265 2000 www.hattonworld.com/adventure-world to spot the birds living nearby. Make a bird Join us during February Half Term for www.warwick-castle.com blow dart and watch it soar or create an Hot Rods and Kool Customs! Includes an

BOOK ONLINE to save money

The Belgrade Theatre and Selladoor Family present

18 Feb – 4 Mar Kids from £9.50* 22 – 25 Feb Kids from £12* 28 – 30 Mar Kids from £8.50*

Look for the to save 20% off the cost of your full price tickets when you book equivalent amounts for two or more participating shows at the same time. See website for further information on ticket prices and other concessions. Ticket prices include a £1 booking fee. No booking fee applies if booked online. BOOK NOW 024 7655 3055 www.belgrade.co.uk

14 [email protected] T: 01926 335004 What's on

Shakespeare Houses Royal Shakespeare Company Swan Theatre Waterside In and near Stratford-upon-Avon Stratford-upon-Avon The Play’s the Thing Shakespeare’s Schoolroom & Visit Shakespeare’s Family Homes in and FREE drop-in activities all year round Family-friendly exhibition for families and Guildhall around Stratford-upon-Avon. There are including Dressing Up Box, Play Cart, children aged 7+. Take a magical journey Stratford-upon-Avon children’s activities to help bring their visit Story Blanket, Adventure Bags plus special through 100 years of theatre-making in Learn about Shakespeare’s early life and to life and special events throughout the events and workshops during school Stratford-upon-Avon. Immersive, hands on explore the very building where he learnt year. holidays. See website for more info. and engaging. £8.50 adult, £4.25 child. to read, write and first enjoyed professional www.rsc.org.uk/theplaysthething theatre. Come and visit and step back in Anne Hathaway’s Cottage Shottery Clore Learning Centre time to the 15th century. Sat 18-Sun 26 Feb, 12pm-4pm Tues 21 Feb, 2pm-3.30pm The National Trust T: 01789 203170 Shakespearian Cottage Bird Watch Introducing Julius Caesar Rain or shine there's always something to www.shakespearesschoolroom.org Become a Shakespearian twitcher for the Discover the story and themes in Julius discover, plenty of space to run around day. Crafts for children and a woodland Caesar as you work as an actor, on your and an outdoor adventure to be had at our Brandon Marsh Nature Reserve adventure. feet! For ages 8+. local National Trust properties. Coventry Thurs 23 Feb, 10am-12noon Baddesley Clinton Brandon Marsh runs regular Nature Tots Shakespeare’s Birthplace Family Workshop: Performing With Masks Grab those wellies this half term and try sessions for pre-school children plus Stratford-upon-Avon Hands-on session, learning how to perform out Baddesley’s natural play trail with activity sessions during school holidays, Thurs 23 Feb, 12pm-4pm with masks. For all ages. stepping stones, rope swings and a including crafts, den building and pond ZooLab winding labyrinth. dipping. Join Georgie Jeffries for ZooLab’s The Other Place Packwood House T: 024 7630 2912 spectacular show. Discover the tales of a Mon 20 & Tues 21 Feb, 12noon, 1pm, 2pm During half term, pick up a map and www.warwickshirewildlifetrust.org.uk Tudor street urchin and the animals that Cupcake Decorating a 'Doodle your dream day' sheet from kept her company. Join our pastry chef in The Other Place Packwood’s Visitor Reception, and head Kitchen. Watch a demonstration on cake off on a journey together through the Leamington Spa Shakespeare’s New Place decorating, before trying for yourself. For woods. Build a den, play hoop-la, splash Sat 7 & 21 Jan, 4 & 18 Feb, 11am-1pm Stratford-upon-Avon ages 8+. in the puddles and have your own family Forest School Fri 24 Feb, 12pm-4pm Weds 22 & Thur 23 Feb, 11.30am-12.30pm adventure. Lots of fun in the woods doing some ZooLab Blood, Guts and Gore Upton House Nr Oxhill exciting (and sometimes risky) activities See, meet and touch the animals that Join former RSC Head Of Wigs and make- At half term, discover things which wriggle, safely. Campfire cooking, fire lighting, clay would have crossed Shakespeare’s path up, Brenda Leedham, as she talks about the crawl, dig and fly around Upton! Solve work, storytelling, whittling and tool use, and hear the tales of the Tudor street tricks of the trade and how bruises, cuts clues, practice your wildlife detective skills, dens and role play, nature activities and urchin that roamed the streets with them. and scars are created. For all ages. get out in the fresh air and earn a prize! foraging for food. T: 01789 204016 Fri 24 Feb, 10.30am, 11am, 11.30am, 12noon Charlecote Park Nr Warwick www.foundrywood.co.uk www.shakespeare.org.uk Kate’s Storytree at The Other Place Charlecote's a great place to start your Set sail on a storytime adventure with a outdoor adventure with 50 Things To Do Hill Close Gardens Kenilworth treasure chest of props and messages in a Before You're 11¾! Warwick Mon 20-Fri 24 Feb, 10.30am-3.30pm bottle. FREE drop-in activity. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Awesome Archaeology T: 01789 403493 A lovely place to visit. Children’s trail. Meet intrepid adventurers and see www.rsc.org.uk/families Explore the gardens and find the answers to all the questions. artefacts gathered from their digs around the world. Hands on activities including Thurs 12 Jan & 9 Feb, 9.30am-11am Explore this great country park. Lots of Grow and Explore Outdoors coin rubbing, facial reconstruction and family fun. Jam packed events programme digging for finds in the sand pit. Family drop in sessions for pre-school ® offering activities throughout the year to children. Whatever the weather. £3 for first T: 01926 852078 suit all ages. See website for details. www.english-heritage.org.uk/ warwickshire child, £1 for additional children. T: 024 7630 5592 T: 01926 493339 kenilworthcastle Email your events to http://countryparks.warwickshire.gov.uk [email protected] www.hillclosegardens.com

COVENTRY HERBERT ART LUNT FEBRUARY TRANSPORT GALLERY & ROMAN HALF TERM MUSEUM MUSEUM FORT AT COVENTRY MUSEUMS Saturday 18 – Saturday 25 February A fun filled week of creative activities.

Find out more at: www.theherbert.org www.transport-museum.com www.luntromanfort.org

64762 Feb Half Term Ads 2017.indd 1 20/12/2016 14:15 @familieswarks familieswarwickshire www.familiesonline.co.uk 15 Let’s get this party started! HELPING TO CREATE CHERISHED MEMORIES

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FamilY spring 2017

HIGHLY SPRUNG PERFORMANCE COMPANY Tree Tue 31 Jan – Sat 4 Feb Thu 2 Feb Age 6+ Ages 7 – 11

OILY CART LITTLE ANGEL THEATRE In a Pickle Wow! Said Sat 4 & Sun 5 Feb The Owl Ages 3 – 5 Tue 21 – Thu 23 Feb Ages 2 – 5

PINS AND NEEDLES CATHERINE WHEELS THEATRE COMPANY The Bear White by Raymond Briggs Sat 11 & Sun 12 Mar Fri 24 – Sun 26 Feb Ages 2 – 4 Ages 3 – 8

Warwick Arts Centre – the region’s biggest arts and entertainment venue with restaurant, bars, café, gallery and FREE parking after 6pm

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16 [email protected] T: 01926 335004