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IN THIS ISSUE

What’s On in May & June Art Show Time to party! Summer camps

Issue 86 May/June 2019 familiesonline.co.uk 2 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk In this issue: Proud supporter of the News & Views 4-6 Ayot St Lawrence Art Show Technology 7 Children’s Parties 8-9 Hello! Education 11 Summer Camps 14-15 Welcome to the May/June issue of Families Magazine – my second issue since taking over as editor in January. What’s On 16-19 Having worked for regional newspapers earlier in my career I value the part that local Tel: 07958284983 events play in bringing people together and Email: [email protected] building stronger communities, so I’m delighted to give my support to two really exciting events taking place over the coming weeks. www.familiesonline.co.uk The annual Ayot St Lawrence Art Show has been attracting art lovers for many years and proudly Editor: Dale Harry celebrates its 45th year. In addition to the art on display, there are a host of activities that children Design: Christina Billingham can get involved in too so it makes the perfect family day out (turn to page 5 for more details). Listings editor: Karen Porter The impact of climate change and valuing sustainable living are topics that we should all try to Facebook: Twitter: keep at the forefront of our minds as we go about our daily lives, and the St Albans Sustainability FamiliesHerts @FamiliesHerts Festival is doing its best to ensure we do just that with numerous events taking place across the town, Harpenden and the villages. There’s lots to see and do! Turn to page 4 for more information. In this issue I’d also like to thank all the readers who took part in the Families readership survey: Market your business with Families Herts we had such a great response and feedback has shown that the magazine is highly valued by • We reach over 45,000 engaged families and businesses alike. More about this on page 6. readers each issue If you’re stuck for ideas on what type of birthday party to hold for your child take a look at our • Distribute from schools, tuition centres, feature on pages 8-9, and don’t forgot to browse What’s On for planning those weekend and leisure attractions and more May Half Term activities. • We have a high repeat booking rate, so I hope you enjoy reading the magazine! advertising with us works trusted, influential, visible Dale 07958284983

Families Hertfordshire (FH) is part of the Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families® is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham FamiliesHouse, Regatta Herts is Place, part of Marlow Families Road, Print Bourne Ltd, a franchiseEnd, Bucks, company. SL8 5TD. All The franchised content magazinesof FH is fully in theprotected group areby copyright.independently Every owne cared is and taken operated in the underpreparation licence. of Families this magazine, is a registered but Families trademark Print ofLtd LCMB and FHLtd, cannot Remenham be held House, responsible Regatta for Place, the Marlowclaims of Road, advertisers Bourne nor End, for Bucks the accuracySL8 5TD. Theof the contents contents, of Familiesor any consequence Herts are fully thereof. protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Herts. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but the franchise company, Families Print Ltd and Lifecycle Marketing cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents, or any consequence thereof. News & Views First climate change Playpark Project teachers to be Rothamsted needs taught in the UK your support The community of Harpenden and the surrounding areas has come together to raise money for the regeneration of the play area in Rothamsted Park. The once popular play area is now in very poor condition and sadly near the end of its life, but the Playpark Action Rothamsted Committee was up last year with the aim of making the playpark a modern and welcoming place to visit again, and it has made great progress. Teachers across the country have the Education provider YPO sponsors this FREE, With the designs for the new playpark opportunity to become the first climate global education programme. All you have to voted for by the public, and agreed upon, the change teachers accredited by the UN. do is sign up to Harwood Education’s UN CC: challenge now for PARC is to raise funds which This one of a kind climate change education Learn Teacher Academy. will see those design plans become a programme will use innovative learning The course, which takes just 8 hours to physical reality. technology so teachers can learn at home or complete, explores the science that supports The committed team behind PARC work on the go. The aim is to make sure teachers the existence and effects of climate change closely with St Albans City and District can help protect the climate by educating on children, cities, human health, and gender. Council and aim to: ‘Raise sufficient funds to their students with the latest data and If you work in a school or want to get create a new and inclusive flagship play area information on climate change, sustainability, your child’s school involved go to for Harpenden and surrounding towns and and the green economy. www.unccteacheracademy.com villages; a place where friends and families can come together and spend quality time.’ A number of fundraising events, in which all areas of the community are invited to The St Albans District Sustainability Festival participate, will be announced soon.

The three-week There is a talk on sustainable fashion, an award winning introduction to green investment and a St Albans sustainable-themed pub quiz. Sustainability Visit the Market Takeover on Sunday 19 Festival returns May when St Albans city centre will be filled for 2019 with from 11am – 5pm with stalls, music, food and over 100 activities all aimed at helping residents reduce events to their carbon footprint. enjoy across Thousands of children across the district St Albans, Harpenden and the villages. will be involved in the Sustainability Festival There is something for everyone whatever as schools, Scouts, Guides and other youth your age or interests, many events are free, groups join in on the action. and all are about the environment and sustainable living. The festival takes place 11 May – 1 June. If you are interested in supporting PARC Some of the exciting events include family- For more details and full programme on the project or would like to donate friendly walks, picnics, craft sessions, a of events visit contact [email protected] or visit community sports day, river dipping and www.sustainablestalbans.org www.parkaid.org adventure play.

4 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk Art Show celebrates its 45th birthday!

Now in its 45th year the very popular Ayot St Lawrence Art Show is set to be the best yet as a new art and craft tent has been introduced alongside the main exhibition, which will offer opportunities for all ages to try watercolour, pastel relief, lino print and make handmade crafts. ‘The Show is a real gem and gets more and more popular every year,’ says Art Show committee member, Kitty Turner. ‘We are hugely grateful to our loyal supporters but wanted to mark the anniversary by introducing the Art Show to a wider audience through a range of fun art-related activities.’ ‘The Show is a real gem and gets more and more popular every year’

The main exhibition will once again showcase a wide range of artists displaying a variety of styles including oil, water colour and acrylic. In addition to the framed art available for sale, there is a much sought- after selection of unframed art, and a variety of art-based greetings cards designed by the artists. There is a treasure hunt to enjoy too, and you can reward your efforts with a trip to the tea tent, or why not head off to The Brocket Arms, supporters of the Art Show, who will be hosting a BBQ as part of their annual food and drink festival. The Show began life in 1974 as a means of raising money for conservation projects to maintain and protect the fabric of St Lawrence Church, and this continues today. The Ayot St Lawrence Art Show takes place 15 – 17 June at the Palladian Church. Families Hertfordshire Magazine is a proud supporter of the Ayot St Lawrence Art Show 2019. For more information visit www.ayotartshow.co.uk.

Lack of sleep damaging for children

More than a third of primary school children are failing to get sufficient sleep, according to research by the University of Leeds. The study has linked poor sleep with difficulties in paying attention in class, keeping up with school work, forgetfulness and absenteeism. The NHS recommendation is that children of that age should get 10 hours sleep per night but the study discovered that out of 1,100 children aged 6 to 11, 36% were getting only eight hours sleep or less on a weekday night. Just under a third of children reported that worrying about school work was keeping them awake, whilst around one in six children reported that they found it difficult to sleep because of concerns about bullying or friendship. The researchers identified that children who had access to technology in their bedroom were more likely to experience a shorter night’s sleep and recommended that parents consider removing technology from their children’s bedrooms.

For more information on this topic go to: www.leeds.ac.uk

familiesonline.co.uk 5 News & Views It’s official! Our readers prefer Families Magazine to the internet!

Last year, we conducted a survey across the UK asking readers to tell us what they find useful about our magazine and how likely they would be to respond to advertising in it. We were delighted to receive almost 500 responses and by the wonderful feedback you gave us.

More than 70% of our readers said they forgetful... nanas are allowed to be right? I were highly likely to respond to advertising in would act on an advert I saw in the our magazine or had already done so. That’s magazine too.’ fabulous news for our advertisers and for our A reader in Manchester told us: ‘In this time readers, because it means we can carry on of social media it is great to have a magazine making the magazine better and better! you can pick up and physically flick through A whopping 79% of readers told us that rather than having to fight through hundreds they use the magazine to research ideas for of emails and pop-up adverts for local family activities or classes and clubs for individual offers.’ children and an equally impressive 74% said We were also they use it to plan family life. really happy that Many of you also told us that you find large numbers of it easier to plan family activities and you reported that entertainment using Families Magazine than Families Magazine using the internet! You told us that using the makes your lives internet to research and plan can be time easier and less consuming and confusing, involving lots of stressful and saves trawling online for useful information. A you time. common complaint seems to be the ‘endless Thank you to trawling’ that digital research involves. everyone that A typical response came from a reader from volunteered Knebworth who says: ‘I am always looking for their comments. special outings to do with my granddaughter If you are interested in so I find this magazine very useful and taking part in one informative. What I like about it is that it is of our Reader Forums, ‘local’... whilst I know you can look online I please email often see something and then forget about info@familiesmagazine. it, and then can’t find it again online. This co.uk. magazine allows me to constantly refer back *Readers names have not been which is perfect when you start getting more quoted for privacy reasons

Enjoy an adventure at the Museums at Night Festival Families can explore art, history and heritage after dark with the Museums at Night bi-annual nationwide festival which runs across a wide range of venues from 15 to 18 May. Every year in both May and October, museums, heritage sites and historic properties, as well as smaller cultural venues throw open their doors after hours to showcase their treasures in unexpected ways. Discover new exhibitions, take torch lit tours, enjoy live music in historic surroundings, and engage in a range of free and ticketed night-time activities. has a Ghost Tour and Bat Walk. There will be a unique opportunity to tour the House at night and hear the tales of the incidents that remain unexplained. As well as the tour featuring ghost stories, The Herts and Middlesex Bat Group will give a talk and have specialist equipment to help detect the resident bats. The event takes place on the 16 and 17 May. Tickets cost £23 per person and includes soup, sandwich and hot drinks. Pre-booking is essential. To find your local events, visit www.museumsatnight.org.uk

6 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk Technology What can you do as a parent? Be observant Is your child suffering from mood swings, changes in sleep patterns, trouble concentrating, being secretive or spending more time online than offline? Do you have the feeling that your child would rather disappear into the online universe than reside in the real world with friends and family? These are warning signs that should not be ignored. Lead by example Be here, now, in the present and interact with your children. Show interest in what they do, ask questions, do things with them. Talk about issues in an open and non-confrontational manner. Getting your kids to talk about what they feel and experience builds trust and will make them more likely to listen to your suggestions and advice. FOMO and low self esteem Make their phones less addictive Is fixation with the digital world impacting on our Get your children to turn off notifications on their phones and in their social media feeds. relationships and wellbeing? This way the pull of the phone or tablets reduces and children have an easier time By Soren Kenner and Imran Rashid pulling away as needed. Put screentime on a schedule bsorption into our own private screen Online tribalism universe is pulling us all further and Make an online schedule with your kids – set further apart. Look at how our gait For many youngsters being part of the group the parameters for usage clearly and stick to A and gaining social acceptance weighs heavily; has changed: ten years ago people walking what you have agreed. down the street were upright and orientated so heavily, in fact, that young people often outwards. Today they are slouched forward organise in what can only be described as Introduce alternatives ‘online tribes’ – groups that have internal looking into the smartphone they hold in front Try out some of the many good alternatives ranks and hierarchies (often governed by how of them. At the playground, parents stare to being online. Play board games, solve many likes or how much attention you get). into their phones while children’s calls for puzzles, read a book, draw, learn to play This behaviour is not particularly healthy – attention go unheeded. the piano. The real gold here is doing these examples are rampant of young people being Studies have shown that the hormone activities together. oxytocin which helps facilitate human bonding scared of missing out on anything (also known Yes, children are at risk but there is plenty and closeness (among other things) tend to as FOMO). The UK Medical Examiner recently you can do about it. It requires being drop in both parents and children when they reported that as many as one youngster out of observant and takes discipline on your part ignore each other in favour of the tantalising five wakes up during the night to check their but you can save your kids from smartphone online universe. social media feed. burnout – and also get to spend more quality Another study that tracked thousands of There is a clear correlation between teens time with them. people over many years, found a sharp drop (especially girls) that use social media off in their level of empathy over the last ten extensively and issues that range from years. Coincidence? Maybe not. stress to anxiety, lowered self-esteem and What it is inside those even lowered empathy. For girls especially Soren Kenner screens that is so magic social media groupings and Imran and powerful that it ‘1 in every 5 children wake can be harsh – many of Rashid (GP) compels your attention up in the middle of night to these groups promote have researched away from where you unrealistic ideas of what and written are? The answer is mostly check social media‘ you should look like – extensively on ‘smoke and mirrors’ – ideals that most people the risk factors you are being elegantly cannot live up to. associated with manipulated by very However, not excessive use savvy marketeers everyone gets hit by of smartphones using what is known every possible side- and social as ‘addictive design’ effect or even any media. to keep your attention at all. And the good Their book riveted – fixating your news is that making a Offline: attention and reselling change from unhealthy Free your Mind from Smartphone and it to advertisers is how online habits to Social Media Stress is on Amazon and in they make their living. healthier ones is pretty bookstores now. straightforward.

familiesonline.co.uk 7 Parties It’s party time!

Planning your child’s birthday can involve deep- breathing and military-style planning. This annual event has kids jumping for joy but many parents breaking out into a cold sweat. Claire Winter takes a look at some different party ideas to inspire (you).

Perform Parties Perform parties are high energy, fun and totally infectious. Based around a colourful theme, Perform’s enthusiastic party leaders use a magical mix of songs, games and laughter guaranteed to ensure every child is part of an enthralling adventure. From the moment the lively leaders walk in the door, they'll give your child and friends the best birthday party they've ever had. Whether your child wants to be a sensational superhero, a shimmering princess or a wise wizard, they'll be sure to have a brilliant time. ‘As Hugo went to sleep, he asked if that superhero could come back for his party next year because she was so amazing!’ Jessica Cuatrecasas (previous party booker) Themes include: Superheroes, Mermaids and Pirates, Pirates and Themed Parties Princesses, Fairytale Forest, Knights and Princesses, Puppy Patrol, Magical forest and flower-themed parties are great fun to host if you like Popstarz, Moana, Ghost Hunters, Alice in Wonderland, Outer Space, being creative. A perennial favourite is also a superhero party. It ticks a Secret Spies,T he Ice Queen, Dinosaurs, The Magician's Chamber, lot of boxes and offers great fancy dress options for boys and girls. There Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, The Sound of Music, Beauty & the Beast are also loads of great decorations you can make, or buy if you don’t and Trolls. have the time! To find out more or book a party call 0207 255 9120 or visit Another popular party is a Harry Potter party. You can make up lots performparties.co.uk of magical games to recreate a mini Hogwarts at home. You could also try something a bit different like a Mexican themed party. Decorate the house with cacti, serve guacamole and dips, hit a Piñata and have plenty of themed games. Food Parties Kids love food, so why not theme your party around it? A pizza making Art Parties party is always a winner. You can go to your favourite pizza restaurant or hold a DIY party at home. Cupcake decorating parties also go down If your child loves making things, an arts and crafts party is the perfect well and the guests can take home the tasty treat instead of a party choice for them. You can go to pottery centres, art studios or get a party bag. How about a doughnut themed party? They are even trending provider to come to your house to host a craft party. You can do a huge on Pinterest! Why not set up a Doughnut Wall covered in a variety of variety of things like mosaics, pottery, painting and jewellery making. doughnuts? You could even attempt a DIY version. Rickmansworth based Your potential Picassos will also get to take their masterpiece home Cinnamon Square also put on amazing baking parties and workshops instead of a party bag. (see box on page 9). Remember not to stress too much! Your child will remember your You could also serve food that has a surprise element to it. A cake efforts whether you hire a circus performer and a bouncy castle; host that is full of sweets when you cut it. Ice cream cones filled with a fun party at home or organise a trip out the cinema or a trampoline savoury fillings. You could also mix up healthy food with treats, such park. Enjoy it and embrace the mayhem; they grow up quickly! as marshmallows and fruit kebabs or tortilla chips with hummus and crudités. Number cakes decorated with fruit, meringues, and flowers are also all the rage. They make a great centrepiece on a party table.

8 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk Get your party jumping at Jump In

Let Jump In take the strain of organising your child’s next birthday party. Other than ensuring that the children turn up there’s not much else required so it couldn’t be easier! The invitations, food and drink are all supplied. Your party child and their guests will have the run of their own dedicated party area and a special host who will make sure the party really keeps jumping. Jump In Trampoline Parks offer an exciting jump experience for kids and adults. The parks include drop slides, tumble tracks, dodgeball courts, trapeze swings, rope ladders, giant air bag, performance trampolines, balance beams and more. There are two locations; one at Elstree and the other in Enfield. Check out the fitness classes, toddler mornings and after-school sessions, available weekly at both venues. Parties start from only £150. Book and find out more at www.gojumpin.com or call 01926 356290.

Parties at Home If you want to host a party at home, think about hiring a company to help. You can even get specialists to come in and set up a sleepover these days. They will put up tents in your garden or your home, and some even supply breakfast on a tray! Or host a science party where someone comes in to do experiments and make goo with the children. They’ll even clean up afterwards. There are also gaming party providers who bring all the entertainment to you. If you prefer a more traditional party, why not hire an entertainer like a magician or clown? Active Parties According to Pinterest, searches for scavenger parties are up by 302%. These are similar to treasure hunts and start with a list of things to find (or do) and a time limit. But there is no set path as players scavenge around and search for all of the items on the list. The player or team who finds everything on the list first or finds the most items before the time is up wins. These parties can be great fun and relatively inexpensive – you could hold one in your garden or a local park or wood. You can also do a whole variety of different activities at your local leisure centre. They often offer a variety of swimming, inflatable and sports parties. Why not pick a sport your child loves? You could also check out your local trampoline park to see what party packages they offer. Other easy activity parties include paintballing, bowling, laser quest and go-karting.

Cinnamon Square Parties Through a range of parties and workshops, Cinnamon Square has been teaching children to bake for over 13 years. During the classic baking party, suitable for 5 years and upwards, children make bread, pizza, cookies and their own birthday cake. The newest hands-on baking party involves making scones, finger buns, pizza and a birthday cake. Cupcake and chocolate making parties are also available for children 9 years and over and there are workshops and special classes for adults and children to attend together, run during the school holidays. For more details about this award-winning Rickmansworth bakery, and dates, visit www.cinnamonsquare.com or call 01923 778353.

familiesonline.co.uk 9 Early years

Wait for the tantrum to stop Losing your temper or shouting back won’t end the tantrum. Ignore the looks you get from people around you and concentrate on staying calm. Aggression Tugging hair, kicking, biting and hitting are ways your child can express themself and try to exert control over their immediate environment. Talk to them Children often go through phases of being upset or insecure and express their feelings by being aggressive. Finding out what’s worrying them is the first step in being able to help. Tantrums: Don’t retaliate physically This could make your child think it’s acceptable to do this. Instead, make it clear that what they’re doing hurts and you won’t allow it. Toddlers Show it doesn’t work One of the key ways to suppress your child’s aggression is to demonstrate that it will get them nowhere. For example, if your child behaving badly pulls a playmate’s hair to get a toy, hand the toy back to the friend as By Max Walker you explain to your child ‘We don’t pull hair.’ Interrupt the behaviour Raising a toddler can be one of the most challenging stages of your life as a parent. When you catch your child with a fistful of hair, gently disentangle him, then grasp their hand and hold it while you say: ‘We don't pull hair. Many of toddler behaviours can feel extreme, if not downright Pulling hair hurts.’ wicked. But take heart. Tantrums, hitting, biting, throwing things, screaming and other such behaviours are normal for children Time out in a quiet spot between the ages of 1 and 4 years. Here are a few tips on how to Place your child in a boring place. Wait for them to calm down. When manage some of these difficult behaviours. your child has calmed down, discuss the reason for the timeout and why the behaviour was unacceptable. Tantrums Whining Don’t panic An irritating blend of talking and crying. However, whining is often Sometimes you may worry that you are raising a tyrant. But at this age the only way that toddlers can express themselves when they’re tired, it is unlikely that your child is throwing a fit to be manipulative. It is cranky, hungry or uncomfortable. That’s why it’s up to you to help them more likely that your child is trying to express themselves and finding it communicate in an acceptable manner. difficult. They feel frustrated, and the frustration is expressed as a tantrum. Define it Point out the whining when you hear it and ask your child to use their Find out why? regular voice instead. Let them know how it sounds to you (without Your child may be tired or hungry; in which case the solution is simple. making fun). Explain that whining sounds unpleasant and makes people They could be feeling frustrated or jealous of another child. They stop listening. may need time, attention and love, even though they're not being very loveable. Acknowledge your child’s need for attention Toddlers often resort to whining when they’ve tried and failed to get Find a distraction your ear. Try getting down to their level to make eye contact and ask Children have short attention spans. Giving them something else in place them to tell you what they want without whining. of what they can’t have or starting a new activity can move your child through their frustration. Avoid triggers Don’t take your hungry toddler somewhere without taking some healthy Don’t give in snacks, or better still feed them before you go. Similarly, avoid taking If you say yes to end the tantrum, that won’t help in the long term. If them on errands if they are due for a nap. you’ve said no, stick to your guns otherwise your child may start to think For more advice on difficult toddler behaviour, visit tantrums can get them what they want. www.familylives.org.uk

Low take-up of free childcare Government figures show that far fewer families than expected are using the tax-free childcare offer. According to figures released by HMRC, just 91,000 parents accessed the offer by December 2018, far below the 415,000 the government had budgeted for. This number represents just 5% of the 2 million families the government estimated would be eligible for the scheme when it was first launched. The tax-free childcare scheme is a replacement for the previous childcare voucher system, which closed to new entrants from October 2018. Ongoing technical difficulties, the complexity of the system and low awareness have been attributed as causes for the poor response by families.

10 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk Education Preparing our children for the world of work

By Gabrielle Nash

t is exciting when your child heads off to school for the first time. What will their first day be like? What will spark their interest? The Igoal of school is to give your child the necessary tools and skills to enter our grown-up world and ultimately find a job. But what kind of job will that be? The world of work is undergoing a transformation and future careers Interpersonal and communication skills are vital, because the will look very different to the those of today. Many of the jobs our 1. .human factor in a job will still be valuable. children will do don’t currently exist, just as the top ten jobs in 2011 didn’t exist in 2004. As new technologies explode onto the scene, new The ability to adapt is crucial. One set of skills will not last 20 job opportunities are created. According to Randstad, it is estimated that 2. years, so teaching a child to be resilient and comfortable with today’s students will have 10 to 14 jobs before their 38th birthday! change will help them to continuously learn and evolve.

What type of jobs? So if your child seems like they’re not excelling in traditional measures Just as our parents had never heard of job titles like ‘social media of excellence, don’t panic Instead focus on developing their other skills manager’ or ‘app developer’ neither can we as parents fathom what our and exploring all pathways. A child who is behind on maths and English children might grow up to do. Predicting what jobs will be in demand might, in fact, have fantastic potential people skills. If they’re empathetic is difficult. They could perhaps include biomedical engineers creating and kind, or adaptable and able to find solutions, that could take them artificial organs; interpreters (a growth industry despite automated further than their academic ability and give them the foundation to translation tools becoming popular); or new healthcare roles looking tackle a myriad of roles in the future. after our increasing number of over-65s. All of these industries we know have a future. For more from Gabrielle Nash, read her blog @londonishmum Naturally our images of the future workplace are dominated by artificial intelligence, robotics and automation, but experts believe that the future of AI is not to replace humans but to change what humans are capable of. Interactive Scientific, a British software company, believes that we can teach children key skills like good communication, persistence and problem solving, all before knowing what future technologies will look like. These skills will be vital for our children to navigate an unpredictable jobs market. What can you do to prepare your child? However good an education your child is receiving, there are very few establishments with a futureproof curriculum, one that can wholly offer the development of skills needed for getting a job in 15 to 20 years’ time. This is perhaps why more and more emphasis could be placed on vocational education, as a university degree will no longer guarantee a job. Whilst, as parents, we might think that giving our kids a head start with coding, for example, will equip them with the kind of skills they will need for the future, this is surprisingly not the case. Gaining complex skills like coding is not necessarily the recipe for success (partly because machines will do that very well); instead it’s more personal or ‘soft’ skills that will help our children excel. The key things to remember?

familiesonline.co.uk 11 Clubs & classes

drummer in his local church band every week and finally being allowed to sit next to him. Adrianna Forbes-Dorant first became aware of classical music because Classic FM was always on the radio at home. The reality, of course, is that most musicians are unlikely to even remember their first exposure to music because, as the evidence clearly shows, the process of responding to music starts before we are even born. After just 25 weeks a foetus has a functioning auditory system and can respond to sound, for example, by jumping or kicking in response to a very loud noise. How to The parent’s role So how do you as parents or parents-to-be nurture your child’s encourage a relationship with music? The British Association for Early Childhood Education has done some love of music great work in this area, showing how parental support for their child’s musical development is underpinned by two simple but vital principles: in your child positive relationships and enabling environments. Beyond giving warmth and love, relationships which encourage a child’s By Jon Flinn musical development are sensitive and responsive to the child’s needs, feelings and interests. For example, giving them access to variety of music to hear and play but acknowledging the child’s own tastes. They’re isten to the stories of successful young musicians also about supporting the child’s own efforts to express themselves, and today and they will tell you that they got involved with being consistent in setting clear boundaries. Lclassical music, in large part, because they were exposed Creating enabling environments is about making sure that your child to it from an early age. – whatever age – has access to appropriate stimulating resources which It sounds obvious doesn’t it? Yet no two musical ‘journeys’ are the are relevant to a range of children’s cultures and communities, has rich same and there opportunities to learn through play and playful teaching and is free to are many different take risks and explore through music. starting points. There are dozens of great tips on their website (www.early-education. Cellist and former org.uk) – everything from copying children’s vocalisations to show BBC Young Musician that you hear and value them to using recording devices and creating of the Year, Sheku ‘treasure baskets’ with items that the youngest babies can shake, scrunch Kanneh-Mason, or tap. says that it was experiencing live music that really Start them young spurred him on When it comes to developing your children’s relationship with music, you (though having five can’t start early enough – which is why it’s such great news that, when equally talented it comes into effect in 2020, the new National Plan for Music Education siblings learning music will lower the age of children targeted from the current 5/6 years to must have helped nursery age. too!) It’s also why the national Music Commission (www.musiccommission. For 10 year old org.uk) focusses, in part, on the role that parents (whether they are multi-instrumentalist, musical or not) can play in their children’s learning. The Learn Music Nathan-Asher Oriakhi, London (www.learnmusic.london) resource can also help parents in it was watching the London find teachers and local support. There’s lots that government and agencies like ABRSM can do to help support children to learn to develop their musical skills, but nothing is more important to a child’s musical development than the support of their parents.

The ABRSM is the world’s leading provider of music exams and an organisation which has spent 130 years inspiring the musical achievement of young people. It is currently looking for music learners ages 7 to 18 and their parents from a wide range of backgrounds to take part in a series of online discussions, polls and surveys. If you are interested, register online at www.abrsm.org/parentslearners.

12 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk Parenting

Always put their mental health Help your child to record Supporting and wellbeing first their progress By nurturing our children’s self-esteem Whatever your child aims for, ensure that and paying attention their wellbeing and you help them chart how far they have come. children to mental health, we lay the foundations from Perhaps they want to be top of the class in which they can thrive emotionally and even their weekly spelling test. Help them build academically. There is strong evidence that a strategy to improve, but as they progress reach their children who are happy at home are more and improve their score, encourage them to resilient, popular and engaged with learning reflect on how they got there. How did you do at school. it? What was different this time? Reflection full potential Adopt an authoritative builds resilience. By Dr Kathy Weston parenting style Watch your language! Research suggests that children who are As parents, we can easily damage our very loving parent wants their children brought up by loving, warm and engaged children’s fragile sense of self through our to aim high and fulfil their great parents are more likely to be academically words and actions. As far as possible, we must potential. It can be frustrating for some successful and even take part in less risky take care to use language steeped in positivity. E It is can be incredibly motivating for children parents to witness their bright child struggle behaviours as they grow older. Being to focus on their academic work or show any authoritative means that we need to set to hear a parent nudge them towards working ambition when it comes to nurturing their routines, rules and expectations for our things out for themselves, praising them for obvious talents in sport, music or art. We children. In this way, they experience stability their behaviour, or their general attitude and all want to do everything we can to support and consistency; the most important qualities efforts. Praise the behaviour and mind-set our children to be the best that they can be. of a positive home environment. you wish to see, when you see it. In this way, children are more motivated to keep their So what should you do to help your children Model the aspiration reach for the stars?... great attitude up. Don’t expect your children to aim high, if you Be positive, but not prescriptive don’t. Share your own goals and dreams with them and importantly, talk about how you about their futures might achieve them. If you want to start a Children don’t need to be able to tell adults business, share your vision and your strategy what they will be when they grow up. Who for making it happen. Aim as a family to can possibly tell? As parents, we need to focus constantly set and revise goals. Share both the on talking about how positive the future will strategies and the challenges that will need to be and equipping our children to be ready for be overcome when you are striving to succeed. anything. Focussing on their general resilience, Teach your child that ‘failing’ is outlook and sense of optimism for life gives them a psychological foundation for a great part of learning future. Attuning to and respecting what makes Repetitive mistakes are part and parcel of your particular child ‘tick,’ is key to unlocking the daily experience of inventors, scientists their natural motivation to succeed. Allow and anyone brilliant involved in producing them to choose what interests them and new ideas and innovations. By teaching our follow that. children that failure is part and parcel of Dr Kathy Weston is one of the nation’s learning, we give them the chance to truly leading motivational speakers on the topics of thrive academically. What matters is how parenting, family life and education. we respond to setbacks. Can we grow, learn, Read more about her work at develop and do better next time? www.drkathyweston.com

familiesonline.co.uk 13 Summer camps Summer Holiday camps and courses guide Summer camps are great fun and beneficial to your child in many different ways By Andrew Campbell

he long summer holiday break is a great opportunity for children sports or creative activities throughout the day. Typically multi-activity to take part in organised activities, play schemes, workshops or day camps involve 4 to 6 activities per day, with each activity session day camps either within their local area on a daily or weekly basis lasting between 1 and 1 ½ hours. Often the sessions focus on ‘tasters’ or,T increasingly, attend an American-style residential summer Camp. or introductions to a range of activities such as performing arts and Here’s our guide to some of the options available, together with some outdoor adventure. advice on how to choose the right summer activity for your child. Generally, children can attend for as many days as they wish, with Residential camps a price discount for a full week’s attendance. Day camp arrival and departure times vary but the day usually starts between 9am and 10am These are independent holidays for unaccompanied children aged from and ends between 4 and 5pm. Many camps offer early drop off and late 7 years and above. Children are supervised round the clock in a secure pick up options. residential environment such as a boarding school. Group leaders usually take care of children’s pastoral and welfare needs whilst instructors Sports/activity courses or workshops provide a programme of activities. Camps can offer specialist courses Specialising in a specific sport or activity such as performing arts or art or a multi-activity programme. Unlike American summer camps, which and craft, these courses are usually for children of 7 years and above. due to longer school breaks and less holiday leave for working parents They generally operate for 2 to 3 hours per day, running for just one often provide a home-from-home experience, residential camps in day or as a progressive course over 4 to 5 days. Sports courses are often the UK usually involve just a 7 day break. However, if your budget can led by qualified instructors/coaches or by local authority sports/leisure be stretched there are a large number of residential camps operating centres, specialist swim centres or riding schools. National governing throughout Europe and North America which can offer your child body awards can sometimes be achieved. Performing arts workshops additional cultural and linguist experiences. tend to be run by performing arts schools who also offer term time Multi-activity day camps classes for children. These are non-residential full-day camps running in your local area. Holiday play schemes They are for unaccompanied children from 3 years and above which These offer non-residential full or part-day supervised childcare for usually run from Monday to Friday, offering a varied programme of unaccompanied children from age 3 and above but are usually run by voluntary organisations or local authorities. Activities at play schemes may be specific, such as sports or art and craft, or involve a range of different activities. Many play schemes run off-site trips to attractions such as museums or parks. In the main, they are provided for children living in the catchment area of the venue.

Will I be able to use childcare vouchers or claim tax credits? You may be able to claim tax credits to help pay for your child's summer activities. If you pay for them to attend and if the activity provider is registered and regulated then you can claim as you would for an after-school club or childminder. Parents enrolled in the childcare voucher scheme can also use their vouchers to subsidise the cost of summer childcare options including camps and courses. However, the provider must be registered and be prepared to accept vouchers. To check what help you could get with childcare costs, visit www.gov.uk/childcare-calculator

14 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk The benefits of summer camps and workshops Physical activity Much of a child’s time at school is spent sitting behind a desk so Leaving technology behind spending the day running around, swimming, hiking, or playing sport gives children a great chance to get moving. As fantastic as it is that we live in a world filled with TVs, mobile phones, lap tops and other devices, it is always great to encourage children to get Develop talents and skills outside for a good old-fashioned kick about and run around. At some camps, children may be given the opportunity to learn skills Enjoying the outdoors and take part in activities they have not encountered before. Learning archery, painting or lacrosse may help children discover talents and Climbing trees, changing a bike wheel, or building an outdoor camp can interests they didn’t know they had. help ensure your child does not miss out on the learning benefits to be gained from the great outdoors and enjoy adventures they would not Building confidence otherwise experience. Discovering these new talents and developing new skills will, in turn, Offering role models help children to grow in confidence and self-esteem. Often the instructors on summer camps provide a rare opportunity Learning social skills for a child to interact with an adult who is not part of the family Engaging with children from different schools, different areas and unit or teacher. Their leader should be trained to care for them, offer ultimately different backgrounds, is a great way to build social skills and them support and advice when needed, and always be there for them to make new friends. throughout their attendance. Developing independence Playing! Sometimes giving children the freedom to make decisions and plan their At summer camps children have the chance to just be children, away own time is a fantastic way for them to learn to be independent. from the pressures of school, social media and the commercial world.

How safe will your child be? Most summer camps and courses are regulated by various independent bodies, or in some instances by government inspectorates such as Ofsted which monitors safety standards. Levels of inspection vary according to the type of course or camp. Day camps and play schemes offering full day care programmes for children under the age of 8 are legally required to register with their local authority. Registered providers are subject to inspection by government inspectorates such as Ofsted. Sports/activity courses will not generally be registered with the local authority unless they provide tuition for under 8s. Horse riding centres are legally required to register with their local authority though. Adventure activities run by any commercial organisation providing specific adventure activities (certain watersports, climbing, trekking and caving activities) are legally required to obtain a licence from the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA). This body inspects and monitors safety standards. Information on these inspections is available to the public from the AALA. www.hse.gov.uk/aala Residential camps are not subject to legal registration unless they operate specific adventure activities or provide courses for under 8s. Providers who are members of the British Activity Providers Association (BAPA) are subject to an independent inspection scheme covering site safety, activity standards, staff qualifications and training, health and safety and emergency procedures. For more information, visit www. thebapa.org.uk Police checks All registered day camps and plays schemes are required to get checks on specific staff. In England and Wales this is done via the Disclosure and Barring Service, and in Scotland via Disclosure Scotland. It is worth checking with the provider to see what their policy is in this area. Staff qualifications You may also want to check on staff qualifications. Most sports governing bodies have an official coaching scheme for instructors or leaders at various levels. It is a good idea to ask for further information on staff qualifications if the organisation does not explain its policy in its promotional material or on its website. familiesonline.co.uk 15 What’s On

HERTFORD CASTLE ARMED FORCES DAY 2019 Fun Days, Fetes Castle Street, Hertford, SG14 1HR www.armedforcesday.org.uk 01992 552885, www.hertfordcarnival.org.uk 29 Jun & Festivals Fun Day Show your support for local veterans & LEMSFORD FETE 2 Jun – 12-5pm serving members of the Armed Forces. Live entertainment. Over 50 stands. Castle Broadway Gardens, Letchworth Garden City, St John's C of E School, Lemsford, open to explore. SG6 3TA Welwyn Garden City, AL8 7TR FREE entry 10am-4pm www.lemsfordfete.co.uk Cars At The Castle Cadet challenges, military bands & vehicles, 6 May – 12-4pm 23 Jun – 12-4pm food & craft stalls, classic cars & more. A true English country fete experience Up to 60 modern & vintage cars. Food stalls. High Street, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3AQ including maypole dancing, coconut shy, live Live music. Castle open to explore. 11am-3pm music & Pimms tent. FREE. Donations welcome Entertainment, adventure equipment for Cost: £2. Senior £1. Under 16s free. children & stalls. Free parking HARPENDEN CARNIVAL FREE BRAMBLETON MODEL RAILWAY OPEN DAY Harpenden Common, AL5 1DT www.harpendencarnival.com Highfield Oval, Ambrose Lane, Harpenden 8 Jun – 12-6pm Camps & Courses www.brambleton.org.uk Get Active theme. Includes arena BARRACUDAS ACTIVITY DAY CAMP 11 May – 2-5.30pm entertainment, dog show, One of the country's largest outdoor model craft stalls, inflatables & children’s activities. Hemel Hempstead School, Sherrardswood railways in action. FREE entry, some activities chargeable School, Welwyn, & Haileybury, Hertford. Cost: £2.50. Child £1.50 01480467567 WHITWELL STEAM AND COUNTRY FAIR Holiday entertainment with a brilliant ST ALBANS AND DISTRICT programme of over 80 amazing activities. SUSTAINABILITY FESTIVAL Mansell's End Farm, Bury Lane, Codicote, SG4 8XY Cost: £40/day 11 May – 1 June 07484 327312, www.whitwellsteam.com PERFORM The three-week award-winning St Albans 8 & 9 Jun – 10am-5pm Sustainability Festival returns for 2019 with Steam engines & classic vehicles. St Albans over 100 events to enjoy across St Albans, Cost: £10. Child £6. Senior £8. Family £28. 020 7255 9120 / [email protected] Harpenden and the villages. Many of the Advance booking 15% discount www.perform.org.uk/wizard events are FREE and family friendly. The Wizard of Oz festival goes from strength to strength every ST ALBANS HALF MARATHON Sing and dance your way down the yellow year, so why not go along and be a part of it! Park brick road in the Wizard of Oz holiday For more information visit www.stalbanshalfmarathon.co.uk courses. With colourful costumes, uplifting www.sustainablestalbans.org. 9 Jun songs and dazzling dancing, your child will have the best fun of the summer as Perform ST PAUL'S WALDEN BURY Enjoy the atmosphere at this event for all the family. Includes run, walk & wheelchair half bring this story to life. Across July and Hitchin, SG4 8BP, www.downthewoods.org marathons; 5K and 1.5K fun run. Enter online. August; three, four and five-day courses. Teddy Bears Picnic Cost: Various 10am to 3pm each day (for children aged 18 May – 11-1pm 4-10). In the walled garden. Games, activities & TRIANGLE COMMUNITY GARDEN TRESTLE ARTS BASE cooking on the open fire. Bring a bear, picnic & Ransom's Recreation Ground, off Grove Road, a blanket! Book online. Hitchin, SG5 Russet Drive, St Albans, AL4 0JQ Cost: £5 per child. Adults free www.trianglegarden.org 01727 850950, www.trestle.org.uk Puppets and Play May Day HERTFORDSHIRE COUNTY SHOW Open Day and Fun Dog Show 9 Jun – 12-4.30pm 30 May – 10am-3pm The Showground, Dunstable Road, Outdoor activities, stalls & entertainment for Ages 4-7. Create your own puppets and bring Redbourn, AL3 7PT everyone. FREE. Entry to Dog Show £2 them to life in a drama sharing at the end of 01582 792626, www.hertsshow.com the day. 25 & 26 May APPLECROFT SCHOOL SUMMER FETE Cost: £35, includes materials. Early drop off Agricultural show, family entertainment & Applecroft Road, Welwyn Garden City, (from 9am) £5 arena displays. AL8 6JZ, 01707 323758 HORIZON SPORTS Cost (advance price till 10 May): £18. Concs www.applecroft.herts.sch.uk/pta £16. Child £8. Family £44. Under 5s free 23 Jun – 11am-3pm Harwood Hill School, Harwood Close, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 7AG TOTFEST 2019! Stalls, games, bouncy castle, live entertainment, BBQ, licensed bar. www.horizonsportsltd.co.uk , Tilehouse Street, Cost: £1 entry. Child/Senior free 28-31 May Hitchin, SG5 2DL, www.pinkbearevents.com Half term camp for ages 5-12. 26 May – 12-5pm ALBAN STREET FESTIVAL Cost (early bird prices): Half day £9. Full day: Family festival aimed at ages 6 mths to 5 yrs. St Peter's Street, St Albans, AL1 3JE £15.50. Extended day £20.50 Cost: £12.80. 6-11 mths £10.65. www.enjoystalbans.com GORDON CRAIG THEATRE 0-5 mths free 23 Jun Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ ST ALBANS STEAM AND COUNTRY SHOW Street food & drink, theatre performance, live music & more. Most activities FREE 01438 363200, www.gordon-craig.co.uk Oaklands College (Smallford Campus), The Lion King Themed Drama Camp off Hatfield Road, St Albans, AL4 OJA MILL MEAD SCHOOL SUMMER FETE 28-31 May 07425 695534, www.hertssteam.co.uk Port Vale, Hertford, SG14 3AA Ages 6-12. Explore drama, music, singing, 1-2 Jun. Opens 10am. Parade 2pm 29 Jun – 12-3pm dance & visual art activities. Write a script. Steam engines, vintage vehicles, classic cars Stalls & activities. Huge inflatable obstacle Perform for family & friends at the end of & more. course, live music, bar & BBQ. the week. Cost: £8. Senior £7. Under 16s £5. Family £20 Cost: £1 entry. Children free Cost: £105. Siblings & Drama Academy students £90

16 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk COOKERYEATERY HEALTHY U GYM TRESTLE ARTS BASE Alice in Wonderland www.cookeryeatery.co.uk 1-4 Kimps Way, Russet Drive, St Albans, AL4 0JQ 31 May – 2pm Holiday cookery camps Hemel Hempstead, HP3 8EN 01727 850950 New staging of Lewis Carroll’s featuring unique food adventures 01442 769071 www.trestle.org.uk family favourite. every day! www.healthyugym.com Ensonglopedia of Animals Ages 5+. Learning Kitchen, Hitchin, Kids Fitness (ages 6-10) 26 May – 2.30pm Cost: £15. Family £56 SG5 1HF Mondays-Thursdays New show for ages 5+ from ZOG 28 & 29 May Fitness activities & games. award-winning John Hinton. 11 Jun – 4.30pm Ages 4-11. Learn about nutrition & how the Follow-up to the hit show 12 Jun – 11am & 4.30pm Cost: £40 per day body works. Cost: £4.50 an hour Ensonglopedia of Science. Magical adaptation of Julia The Vege Centre, Cost: £12. Concs £10. Family £40 Donaldson & Axel Scheffler’s St. Christopher School, book, featuring live musicians. Letchworth, SG6 3JZ Shows HERTFORD THEATRE Ages 3-8. Cost: £15.50. Child £13.50. 30 & 31 May GORDON CRAIG THEATRE The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS Ages 8-16. 01992 531500 Chores Cost: £50 per day Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ www.hertfordtheatre.com 16 Jun – 2.30pm 01438 363200 Morgan & West’s Utterly Award-winning comedy circus KOOL KIDZ CAMPS www.gordon-craig.co.uk Spiffing Spectacular Magic show. Death-defying stunts the Sandridge Primary School, Ben and Holly's Little Kingdom Show for Kids (And Childish whole family will love! Woodcock Hill, Sandridge, 2 May – 1 & 4.30pm Grown-ups!) Cost: £15. Family £56 St Albans, AL4 9EB 23 May – 10am & 1pm 5 May – 2pm The Very Hungry 0845 603 2858 The award-winning television The time travelling magicians Caterpillar Show www.koolkidzgroup.co.uk animation live on stage. present a jaw dropping 29 Jun – 1 & 3pm 28-31 May Cost: from £13 extravaganza! Most suited to 30 Jun – 11am & 2pm Features a menagerie of 75 Ages 4-12. Half or full days. BROADWAY THEATRE ages 5+. Cost: See website Cost: £15. Family £56 lovable puppets, faithfully Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden Morgan and West: adapting 4 of Eric Carle’s stories. BERKHAMSTED BASECAMP City, SG6 3DD Unbelievable Science Show for Most suitable for ages 18mths All camps take place 01462 681088 Kids (work in progress) to 6yrs. in Berkhamsted www.broadway-letchworth.com 9 & 10 May – 7pm Cost: £15. Family £56. Babes in www.berkhamstedbasecamp. The Amazing Adventures Interactive family science Arms under 18 mths free co.uk of Pinocchio show for ages 7+ where real 29-31 May – 9.30am-4.30pm 4 May – 2pm experiments take place before Multi activity camps for Ages 3+. High energy musical your eyes. WHAT'S ON EDITOR ages 3-11. for the whole family, no Cost: £10 [email protected] Cost: See website strings attached! Cost: £14. Concs £12. Family £48 LETCHWORTH PARISH HALL Alice In Wonderland Broadway, SG6 3PQ 29 May – 2 & 6pm www.activenorthherts.co.uk Ages 5+. This exciting and Balance-Ability Course playful take on the tale features 25 May-29 Jun – 12.15-12.45pm a professional cast, catchy new 6 week balance-bike course. songs & lots of humour for the Learn basic cycling skills to whole family. enable a smoother transition to Cost: £15. Concs £13. Family £54 pedal bikes. Ages 3+. Balance PARK bikes & helmets not provided (pedals can be removed from Walled Garden Amphitheatre, pedal bikes at the session). Radlett Lane, Shenley, WD7 9DW Cost: £35 www.shenleypark.co.uk Gangsta Granny ST PAUL’S WALDEN BURY 2 Jun – 5pm Hitchin, SG4 8BP Outdoor production of the www.downthewoods.org David Walliams book. Most Fun With Fire suitable for 7 yrs+. 22 Jun – 10am-12pm 23 Jun – 3pm In the walled garden. Cook & Wind in the Willows learn different ways to light a Outdoor theatre. fire. Ages 7+ (with or without Cost: See website. All children accompanying adult). must be with a paying adult Book online. THE ALBAN ARENA Cost: Child £18. Adults free Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD DAISY BAKE 01727 844488 Station Approach, www.alban-arena.co.uk Knebworth, SG3 6AT In The Night Garden www.daisybake.co.uk 19 Jun – 1 & 4pm Every Tues-Fri in term time 20 Jun – 10am & 1pm Children’s cooking classes for all See your favourite characters ages. Details online. brought to life with full-size Cost: £8 costumes, magical puppets & enchanting music. Cost: £15, £17

familiesonline.co.uk 17 What’s On

THE OLD TOWN HALL THEATRE Ministry of Science RHODES BISHOPS STORTFORD High Street, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3AE 25 Jun – 6pm 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG 01442 228091 Not your ordinary science show – it comes 01279 710200 www.oldtownhall.co.uk with a bang, a whoosh, and a hovercraft built www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk Javier Jarquin: Card Ninja on stage! Museums at Night 14 May – 7pm Cost: £15.50. Concs £13.50 17 May – 7-8.30pm Using genuine playing cards, comedian Javier Night time trail. WYLLYOTTS THEATRE Jarquin dazzles audiences with displays of FREE decks as weapons. Ages 6+. Wyllyotts Place, Darkes Lane, International Museum Day Cost: £12. Concs £9. Dacorum Card £7.50 Potters Bar, EN6 2HN 18 May. Drop in 11.30am- 3pm Bird's Nest Billy 01707 645005 Be a curator for the day! Take a close up look 25 May – 2.30pm www.wyllyottstheatre.co.uk at some of the museum objects and carry out A magical bird chirps out of Billy’s big, curly, 19 May – 11am & 2.30pm your own research around the museum to see bird’s nest hair and grants him 3 wishes. The Sooty Show 2019 where they fit in history. Ages 5+. Ages 3-7. Izzy Wizzy let’s get busy! Includes a chance to FREE Cost: £7.50. Dacorum Card £6 meet Richard & Sooty after the show. Yellow is the Colour of Sunshine Cost: £13. Child £11. Family £42 BROADWAY STUDIO & GALLERY 15 Jun – 11am & 2.30pm 2 The Arcade, Letchworth Garden City, A new play told in words, sign, colours, music Museum & Art Activities SG6 3EW & movement about feelings, emotions, 01462 681088 empathy & how we communicate. Ages 3+. HENRY MOORE STUDIOS & GARDENS www.broadway-letchworth.com Cost: £7.50. Dacorum Card £6 Perry Green, SG10 6EE Family Arts Studio: Reuse & Recycle 9 Jun. Drop in 10am-1pm THE RADLETT CENTRE www.henry-moore.org/visit Weds-Sun & Bank Hols. 11am-5pm Hands-on craft activities led by professional 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 8HL See the clay models indoors, then explore artists, inspired by artworks in the 01923 859291 www.radlettcentre.co.uk Moore’s sculptures themselves in 70 acres of Broadway Gallery. The Tiger Who Came to Tea open grounds - plenty of room to run around FREE 9 May – 1.30 & 4.30pm and let off steam. LOWEWOOD MUSEUM 10 May – 10.30am & 1.30pm Cost: £12.70. Concs £11.30. 5-18 yrs £6.80. Based on the bestselling picture book by Family £32.70 Under 5 free High Street, Hoddesdon, EN11 8BH Judith Kerr. Ages 3+. Colour and Collage 01992 445596 Cost: £14. Family £50 29 May – 12-4pm www.broxbourne.gov.uk The Wizard of Oz After a look at Moore’s original artworks in Toddler Thursdays 31 May – 3 & 6.30pm the exhibition, drop into the family workshop 16 May & 20 Jun – 10-11am or 11am-12noon 1 Jun – 11am & 3pm and take a line for a walk, creating a picture Learn a nursery rhyme, share a story & make a Spring pantomime adaptation of the classic from an unbroken line. Add texture with craft. Ages 2-4 (with adult). Book in advance. story for all the family. collage and finish by creating a personal, Cost: £2 Cost: £16. Under 16 £14 stylish artist’s signature. Family Fun Milkshake! Live - Milkshake Monkey's Cost: Included in admission 30 May. Drop in 12-3pm Musical Make a rocket! Children must be accompanied 15 Jun – 11am & 2.30pm AYOT ST LAWRENCE ART SHOW by an adult. Learn songs & dances with your favourite Cost: £2 per child Palladian Church, Ayot St Lawrence Milkshake friends. Starring Fireman Sam, www.ayotartshow.co.uk Noddy, Shimmer & Shine, Digby Dragon, STEVENAGE MUSEUM 15 – 17 June.10am-5pm Wissper, Nella the Princess Knight and St George’s Way, SG1 1XX The long-running and popular Ayot St the Floogals. 01438 218881 Lawrence Art Show celebrates its 45th Cost: £16. Babes in Arms £3 www.stevenage.gov.uk/museum year – and is bigger and better! Explore the ZOG Under 5s art exhibition set in the beautiful Palladian 18 Jun – 4.30pm 16 May – 1.30-2.30pm Church of Ayot St Lawrence village. There 19 Jun – 10.30am & 1.30pm Stories, games and art & craft fun. are lots of fun activities for the children too, Magical adaptation of Julia Donaldson & Axel Cost: £2 including a treasure hunt, and the first 50 Scheffler’s book, featuring live musicians. Family Saturdays visitors to the Craft Tent each day receives a Ages 3-7. 25 May – 2-3pm free gift. This is an event not to be missed! Cost: £15.50. Under 16 £13.50. Play the greatest games of all time! Whether Babes in Arms £3 you’re a hard-hearted Roman, a tired Tudor or a stubborn Stuart, there’ll be a game that lifts 18 Bull Plain, Hertford, SG14 1DT RHODES BISHOPS STORTFORD your spirits. 01992 582686 www.hertfordmuseum.org 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG Stay & Play 01279 710200 5 May & 1 Jun. Drop in 10am-4.30pm www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk Queen Street, Hitchin, SG4 9TS Play with some traditional toys. Get hands on An Elephant In The Garden 01462 420144 with a family craft activity. 25 May – 3pm www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk FREE. Donations welcome Lizzie, her mother and an elephant from the Victorian Lessons Museums at Night zoo, flee the Allied fire-bombing at the end 2 Jun – 2.30 or 3.30pm 18 May – 7-9pm of WW2. Adapted from Michael Morpurgo’s Booking essential. Live music in the garden (weather permitting) novel. Ages 8+. Cost: Included in Museum admission. or inside. Licensed bar. Cost: £14.50. Concs £11.50. Family £50 Adult: £5.50. Child: £3. Under 5s free FREE. Donations welcome The Wizard of Oz Half Term Activities 27 May – 2 & 6pm CHILTERN OPEN AIR MUSEUM 28-30 May. Drop in 10.30am-3.30pm (last A spectacular professional spring pantomime. Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, entry 3pm) Cost: £16.50. Concs £14.50. Family £58 Chalfont St Giles, Buckinghamshire, HP8 4AB Family friendly craft activities. www.coam.org.uk Cost: £2 per child

18 Families Herts familiesonline.co.uk May Day Merriment amphibians & reptiles including STANDALONE FARM Dino Adventure 5 & 6 May slow worms, grass snakes & the Wilbury Road, Letchworth, 27 May – 11am-5pm Experience traditional rare great crested newt. SG6 4JN 72 life-sized dinosaurs & Elizabethan May Day dancing and Cost: Free. Suggested donation www.standalonefarm.com prehistoric creatures. Hunt for merriment. Watch displays of fire £5 (Members £3) May Day Morris Dancers fossils at the Dino Dig. Hands- power and swordsmanship. 6 May on experiences with real snakes, RYE MEADS NATURE RESERVE Roman Gladiators Watch local Morris dancers and lizards & tortoises. 26 & 27 May Rye Road, Stanstead Abbotts, enjoy Maypole dancing activities! Cost: Included in admission. Watch Roman Gladiators battle SG12 8JS, www.rspb.org.uk Cost: Included in farm admission Trail sheet £1 – who will live, and who will die: Rye Meadlings Father’s Day Medieval Jousting you decide! 6 & 20 May & 3 & 17 Jun – WILLOWS ACTIVITY FARM 16 Jun – approx 12.30 & 2.30pm Outdoor Theatre: The Tempest 10.30am-12pm Coursers Road, London Colney, Costumed knights on majestic 6.30pm 2 June Outdoor hands-on sessions St Albans, AL2 1BB, 0870 129 9718 warhorses. Fantastic display of The Handlebards all female encouraging child-led exploration www.willowsactivityfarm.com horsemanship & hand to hand troupe’s hilarious outdoor theatre & natural play. Aimed at 18 mths Spring Special combat. Try archery too (£2). performance of The Tempest. to under 5 yrs. Booking essential. 25 May-2 Jun – 10am-5.30pm Cost: Included in admission Mindful Mondays 6pm Cost: £6 per child (RSPB Live sheep shearing and acres of Peppa Pig and George 3, 10, 17 & 24 June Members £5). Parking charge for springtime fun. Cost: See website 23 Jun Take part in a range of mindful non-members (first session Appearances in the Park at activities and forgotten skills. free parking) KNEBWORTH HOUSE intervals 10am-2pm. Bushcraft Weekend Knebworth, SG3 6PY Cost: Included in admission HATFIELD PARK FARM 22 & 23 June 01438 812661 HORNBEAM WOOD Discover more about essential Hatfield Park, Hatfield, AL9 5NB www.knebworthhouse.com HEDGEHOG SANCTUARY bushcraft skills and ancient www.hatfieldparkfarm.co.uk Cost: £10 per person. Includes survival techniques. A fabulous day out guaranteed, Park, Gardens & Adventure Common Lane, Harpenden no matter what the weather. Playground. House extra. Under www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk Animals & Nature Farm animals, tractor rides, and 3s free. 10% discount online Discover Hedgehogs play area. Season-tickets now DogFest 29 May & 19 Jun – 2-3pm HERTFORD HEATH available, for unlimited visits! 11 & 12 May – 9.30am-5pm Learn about the fascinating lives One adult, one child tickets of hedgehogs and get up close Hertford, SG13 7PW Join special guests Professor costs just £40; one adult, up to to a rescue hog. Family event, www.hertswildlifetrust.org.uk Noel Fitzpatrick & Clare Balding two children £65; two adults, ages 6+. Children must be with a Hunting for Dragons! to celebrate all things canine. up to one child £70; two adults, paying adult. 9 May – 8-10am Fun dog show, activities, up to two children £80. See Cost: £8. Child £6 A morning walk searching for entertainment & Kids’ Area. website for more details. Cost: From £11.24. Under 6 free

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