Free Take Me Home

FREE TAKE ME HOME

IN THIS ISSUE RECRUITING NOW Successful ‘business mum’ is Clubs & classes seeking 5 working partners to work part-time from home, alongside and without compromising family commitments or current career. Early years special

If you have a supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment or self-employed What’s on in background, or you wish to develop an extraordinary lifestyle January & please call Vicki King February 07501 433 922

Issuefamiliesonline.co.uk 68 January/February 2019 familiesonline.co.ukFamilies Hampshire West

Issue 68 I Jan/Feb 2019

Editor Rebecca Carr [email protected] 07789 882 467 Advertising Claire Clarricoates [email protected] What’s on Chloe Atkinson [email protected] Social Media Chloe Atkinson Printed by Holbrooks Printers Ltd. Next issue March/April Booking deadline 1 February We distribute 22,000 copies in Winchester, Southampton, The New Forest, Totton, Eastleigh, Chandler’s Ford, Hedge End, Bursledon, Netley, Park Gate and all the areas in between. Contents Published 6 times per year. If you would like copies for your establishment please contact 4. News & views us. 6. Choosing the right club & class Cover image Kaile Meyers Photography 8. Clubs & classes news © Families Hampshire West Magazine 2019. 10. An inspector calls! Families Hampshire West is part of Families Print Ltd, a franchise company. All franchised magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence. Families is a registered trademark of LCMB Ltd, Remenham House, Regatta Place, Marlow Road, Bourne End, Bucks SL8 5TD. The 11. Nannies & childminders contents of Families Hampshire West are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Hampshire West. Every care is taken in the preparation of this magazine, but Families Hampshire West; our 12. The importance of lullabies distributors, 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 14. Early years news thereof.

CMYK / .eps Facebook “f” Logo CMYK / .eps Facebook “f” Logo 15. Parenting book reviews Advertise your business to over 45,000 local parents in our next Stay in issue. Book by 1 February 16. Healthy trends for 2019 touch 17. What’s on in January & February Familieshampshirewestmagazine

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familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 3 News & Views Looking for a new opportunity this year?

12 years ago Vicki was like any Mum who had just stepped into the world of motherhood, nervous excited and not really sure how she would be able to leave her daughter to go back to work. At this point, she decided to resign from her corporate position and think about what she really wanted to do. She still wanted to have the independence of earning her own income on her terms, and wanted control over her diary so she could choose when she worked.

She came across a small advert for a home based opportunity that was offering the flexibility and income she wanted. Vicki now earns a full time income around her two children who are now 12 and 7 and is enjoying the benefits that would rival any blue-chip company in the city. More importantly, she has achieved success by helping other people (especially parents) to Marwell Zoo to succeed, coaching the simple business model which has served the company for almost four decades and earned them the investor in people Gold status in the UK. host a collection of giant LEGO® brick For more information email [email protected] or call 07501 433922. dinosaurs Celebrating creativity at

Marwell Zoo to become the first attraction in King Edward VI School the world to host a collection of giant LEGO® brick dinosaurs. The Peter Faulkes Art Exhibition aims to encourage and celebrate creativity in Prep schools. Last year showcased some of the best work from across BRICKOSAURS, a prehistoric experience Hampshire in the inspiring surroundings of King featuring a total of 50 life-sized sculptures Edward VI School’s Art studios and the Atrium gallery. built with LEGO bricks, is coming to the zoo in 2019. The interactive expedition For the Private View, parents, pupils and teachers created with more than two million bricks is from King Edward’s were joined by those from Stroud, Durlston, Pilgrims, Forres Sandle sure to excite families, LEGO and dinosaur Manor, Princes Mead, Westhill Park and Sherborne House to enjoy an evening of incredible enthusiasts alike. A highlight includes the art. King Edward’s Head of Art, Mr Piggott presented prizes to several young artists and largest touring LEGO brick dinosaur model made glowing reports about the art from all of the schools. Whilst there was a competitive ever made – a whopping eight-metre T-Rex, element and the standard of art on display was extremely high, the parents and teachers plus be prepared for a few surprises! remarked on the friendly, celebratory atmosphere of the event.

Bordon-based LEGO building company 2019’s Peter Faulkes Exhibition will take place on 12 March and will include; Stroud, Durlston, Bright Bricks say it will take their team of Pilgrims, Forres Sandle Manor, Princes Mead, Westhill Park, and Sherborne House, as well as professional builders more than 10,000 new entrants Walhampton and Salisbury Cathedral School. hours to create the exclusive event. BRICKOSAURS will be on display from For more information visit www.kes.hants.sch.uk/whats-happening. 5 April - 1 September 2019. Visitors will also be able to get hands on with a host of extra activities including trying their hand at making their own creations at Spin a tale during National BRICKOSAURS Basecamp, a free spotter’s guide and more. Visit www.marwell.org.uk Storytelling Week The first week of February marks National Storytelling Week, a chance to reflect on one of the oldest art The Big Garden forms in the world. We are all immersed in stories — from conversations during which we re-tell events in Birdwatch our lives, to watching our favourite television shows.

The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch takes Speech and language therapists believe that place from 26-28 January and is the storytelling is vital for children’s academic success as it promotes narrative skills and largest wildlife survey in the world. strengthens the ability of children to correctly sequence ideas. To be a good reader and writer a child needs firstly to be a good speaker and listener. To take part, you need to watch the birds in your garden or local park for just one Above all though, storytelling is fun. Whether we are listening to someone else’s story or hour at some point over the three days telling our own, inventing and adapting narratives can open doors to exciting new worlds — and report your results to the RSPB. both real and imaginary.

You can request a free Big Garden National Storytelling Week takes place in storytelling clubs, theatres, museums, schools, Birdwatch pack from the RSPB which hospitals, spoken word venues, and care homes. To find a local event or to look through its includes a bird identification chart and extensive archive, visit www.sfs.org.uk advice to help you attract wildlife to your garden. Download our magazine To make it fun, challenge your childrenare to see who can spot the most birds. Take Don’t miss an issue! Download the latest a bike ride to a local park to look for birds, magazine and our back catalogue or spot birds in a new place. at issuu Visit www.rspb.org.uk for more www.issuu.com information

4 Families Hampshire West familiesonline.co.uk News & Views Healthy drinks with kids meals

The Oral Health Foundation (OHF) is calling for the introduction of healthy drinks as the standard drink option served with children’s meals in restaurants, insisting that it will significantly help to improve oral health.

The call follows a pioneering law passed in California, which will see milk (and a non-dairy milk alternative) and still, sparkling or flavoured water being advertised on menus and served as primary drink choices with kids’ meals in restaurants throughout the state. Improving the According to the OHF, around one in four (24.7%) children age 5 years in the UK have number foundations tooth decay and new government data shows the number of 5 to 9 year olds admitted to of Pre-Schoolers hospital for tooth decay has risen for the second consecutive year. A leading child psychologist from The charity believes rolling out a similar initiative in the UK will help combat the health Kingston University has produced a effects of sugary drinks and protect thousands of children from tooth decay every year. series of number games for nurseries and parents which are proven to boost More information at www.dentalhealth.org the confidence and ability of pre-school children in maths in just 5 weeks. The toxic school run Dr Jo Van Herwegen created the games based on her research into the Children in the UK are being forced to breathe Approximate Number System (ANS), dangerous levels of toxic air on their way to a mechanism used by the brain to and from school and whilst in the playground, differentiate between groups that have according to new research. more or fewer items in them without counting. The ANS games are based A study by Unicef and Queen Mary University on two foundations - estimation and in London reveals that young children are matching approximate large amounts. absorbing a disproportionate amount of tiny black carbon particles during the school day “The activities we’ve developed are fun, with potentially devastating health consequences. Exposure to the these particles, which rather than formal lesson plans, but can penetrate deep into the lungs, bloodstream and even the brain, stunt lung and brain they’re based on scientific evidence growth and cause long term breathing conditions, is generally higher at school than when about the cornerstones of mathematical children are at home. learning and how to nurture this in young children.” Unicef UK estimates that one in three children are growing up in places in the UK with unsafe levels of particulate pollution. It is calling on the government to take urgent action to protect children from toxic air before irreversible damage is done to their health and “It’s all about the child knowing which their futures. number is larger and which is smaller, but not to the exact number” Dr Van Herwegen explained. Reading, writing and mental wellbeing

Her research showed that playing Children and young people who enjoy reading and writing are three times more likely these specially-designed games for 10 to have better mental wellbeing than those who don’t, new research has found. The minutes a day for 5 weeks improved National Literacy Trust have worked with children’s mental health charity, Place2Be, young children’s number foundations, to develop a series of free wellbeing-inspired teaching resources for primary and the essential building blocks needed for secondary schools, including book lists and assembly plans. There is also a series of top mathematics. This improvement was tips and activity ideas to help parents use reading and writing to support their child’s still apparent 6 months later, when the mental wellbeing. children had started formal education. Visit www.literacytrust.org.uk or www.wordsforlife.org.uk To download the free games, visit www.kingston.ac.uk/research/research- showcase/research-case-studies Kids debit card and app teaches value of money and giving To advertise in our gohenry is a pre-paid debit card and app that March/April issue call allows parents to manage their children’s pocket money whilst teaching them good money habits 07789 882467 and giving them financial independence.

Parents can top up the card with a regular Booking deadline is allowance or set tasks for their children to complete to earn extra money. Parents can decide where the card can be used (online, in-store or at cash machines) all within set 1 February spending limits. Children can set savings goals and choose how much pocket money and earned money they save.

Now gohenry has teamed up with the NSPCC to launch a new Giving function, allowing children to make a one-off or regular donation to the NSPCC (capped at 20 pence per week). For more information visit www.gohenry.co.uk/why-nspcc familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 5 Clubs & classes Choose the right club or class for your child Picking the right extra-curricular activities for your child can sometimes be overwhelming. There are a huge variety of sports and classes available now from coding to Mandarin, from street dance to circus skills, as well as more traditional sports.

Here’s Claire Winter’s guide on how to choose the most appropriate club or class for your child. Try before You buy How many?

Trial classes are a great way for them to How many activities are too many? This experience something before you sign up is really up to you but if you are tired for a term or group of classes. Many clubs of driving your children to all of their and classes offer a free trial before you activities, it’s likely your child will be too; sign up. perhaps you are doing too much. Equally, if your children are bored at home and Try a variety asking to be entertained, maybe it’s time to sign them up for something new. Variety is the spice of life. If your schedule allows it, get your children to try a few Again take the lead from your child. Some different things on a trial basis. If they are children thrive from lots of extra-curricular not keen on trying something new, get activities while others get overwhelmed them to go with a friend. and over-stimulated. Listen to them and adjust their schedule accordingly. Can you commit?

A good place to start is to ask your child Some activities involve early morning what they are interested in. It’s likely that practice or games at the weekend. they will enjoy the activity if they have Can your family life and schedule picked it themselves. My 11 year old twin accommodate the commitment needed? girls have tried a wide variety of classes, If your child plays sport competitively, it which they enjoyed but didn’t want to can often mean training daily or at least continue. When I last asked them what three times a week. they wanted to do, they said they wanted to join a running club. They now train two Think about cost to three times a week and compete at least once a month. It’s a big commitment Some activities are more expensive than for the whole family but they absolutely others. 1:1 tuition or private lessons are love it. more costly, whereas classes and team sports tend to cost less. Guiding or Things to Consider: Scouts is an inexpensive club to join, and it’s great for team building and trying a Will your child enjoy the class/club? variety of different activities. Investigate this option ahead of time though, as there If they enjoy something, whether it’s art, can be waiting lists. football, animation or French they are likely to look forward to training with their team or attending a class every week.

Home-School Tutoring UK Initial Tutors (with full references/DBS checked) available for: consultation is free and • All Ages, Levels and Subjects without • Special Needs Support obligation • Exam Preparation • Support with Home Schooling • Holiday and/or Term Time Work Like to join us as a tutor? Get in touch today! Please contact the Area Advisor for Hampshire (West & Central) Mrs Alex Murray-Twinn, BA (Hons), PGCE, NPQH 02380 275573 [email protected] www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk (est. 1984)

6 Families Hampshire West familiesonline.co.uk Clubs & classes Physical Benefits listening, following directions, taking turns, Gymnastics increases strength, flexibility, being quiet and respecting and encouraging endurance and coordination. Balance is others. vital whilst working on apparatus such as the beam, whilst power is essential when vaulting and tumbling during floor work. The bars and rings encourage lifting, swinging Free Magazines and movement of the body in new ways. As for your school, nursery, cafe, gymnastics uses so many different skills, classes can help train children for any other shop or club - just ask! sport they choose to pursue. [email protected] or 07789 882467 Cognitive Effect

Your child will need to visualise the gymnastic skill they are learning before performing it. So gym-nastics is a great way for a child to use their brains and their Gymnastics – not just bodies together. The intense movement that takes place in gymnastics opens up neural flexibility and fun! pathways in the brain, which can lead to

increased concentration, focus and success, By Andrew Campbell not just in the gym but at school and at St George’s Tutors home. Care Inspire Achieve Gymnastics is regarded as one of the most comprehensive exercise Character Building Individual Private Tuition programmes available to children, Exam Preparation incorporating strength, flexibility, speed, Gymnastics promotes discipline, All subjects, levels and ages balance, coordination, power, and determination, courage and self-confidence, SATS 11+ 13+ GCSEs A Levels discipline. and requires perse-verance to practice and perfect a skill and learn from mistakes. Modern Foreign Languages Small groups & revision classes Whether your child becomes involved Immersion courses in recreational gymnastics or with a Social Benefits competitive squad, skills learned in New in Southampton -weekly classes Gymnastics provides children with the Maths GCSE revision (xsmall groups) gymnastics can benefit a child’s overall French conversation for adults opportunity to communicate with other development significantly. Qualified and experienced tutors - DBS checked children of a similar age, to work together [email protected] as part of a team, and to engage with other It’s also a very exciting, empowering sport. adults. Some of the other social www.stgeorgestutors.com skills necessary to pursue gymnastics are Est.2015

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 7 Clubs & classes Clubs & classes news Raising confident children with Perform Sara has two children, Honor (8) and James (6) who have both been attending Perform classes since they were 4 years old.

“I’ve always wanted my children to feel confident speaking in public and chatting to all sorts of people. I think these are essential life skills these days” says Sara. Does your child need Sara was drawn to Perform because of its focus on help with Maths? developing confidence and self-esteem in a fun way. “It’s not a pushy stage school” she explains. “Each week, the classes focus on a topic like manners, making eye contact or There is a way to super-charge your introducing themselves, but this is wrapped up in a highly engaging way in the context child’s Maths confidence. Jade from of drama and songs.” Basingstoke was worried about her daughter: “Lola was finding maths “Since my children started attending Perform, other parents frequently remark on their confidence and how well they speak in school assemblies. I’m really impressed with quite tough, both at school and at how they chat to adults in places like shops and restaurants.” home. In turn, her confidence was non-existent, meaning she struggled Classes at Perform are small with two teachers per class. “The teachers to enjoy maths activities. Since using are professional actors with amazing energy and enthusiasm. They go Maths Club by Post, there has been a out of their way to understand and engage every child” reports Sara. Book a genuine shift in Lola’s attitude towards Free Trial learning Maths and her confidence Perform offers a FREE no-obligation dance or drama class in Today! is flourishing! She loves receiving Southampton, Lymington, Romsey, Eastleigh and Winchester. her maths packs! She particularly Visit perform.org.uk/try to book. loves the games, and the sense of achievement she gets once she has completed them.”

School Holiday Clubs at If, like Jade, you are worried about Itchen Valley Country Park your child’s Maths, see if a free pack from Maths Club by Post can help Youth Options are excited to be delivering a school your child flourish too. holiday club based all day in the woodlands of Itchen Valley Country Park throughout 2019. Holiday clubs Visit www.mathsclubbypost.co.uk will run in Easter holiday, May Half term, Summer Holidays and October Half term. Children from reception year up to 11 years old are invited to come spend their holidays exploring a variety of woodland activities which could include: shelter building, campfire cooking, woodland art and sculptures, team building games, camouflage games, woodworking, nature walks, habitat exploration and much more. Drop off starts from 8.30am and the day runs through to 4pm with the options of extending your day to 5.30pm.

Youth Options will also be offering holiday childcare for pre-school aged children at their outdoor pre-school, Little Owls Woodland Pre-School. Children will get to explore the outdoors in the nurturing setting of woodland. Visit www.youthoptions. co.uk or call 01794 525510 for more information. Fantastic new classes Learn to swim for life for boys and girls age with Water Babies 2-7 years from Mini

Baby swimming lessons are not only one Athletics of the best things you can do to bond with Mini Athletics aim is to develop physical, your baby, they are also excellent for their cognitive and social literacy within the physical and learning development. They framework of play based Athletics games, boost confidence, improve co-ordination to help every child flourish through three and enhance wellbeing for you both. progressive classes. Using key movement skills such as running, throwing and NHS guidelines state that babies do not jumping, your child will complete games need their vaccinations before they can swim, so you can start your developing gross motor skills, team journey together from birth. work, reflective learning and friendly competition to help grow their love of Water Babies have been teaching in Hampshire for 12 years and have Athletics and sport as a whole. the highest qualified teachers, passionate about positive experiences for little ones so you know that you are in safe hands. Classes run in warm Mini Athletics are at Kings’ School pools above 30 degrees and progress from birth up to 5 years. Winchester on Saturday mornings from 9:15am and Romsey Senior School on Spaces do fill up quickly, call on 01794 324353, email humptydumpty@waterbabies. Sunday mornings from 9:15am. Free co.uk or make an enquiry online at www.waterbabies.co.uk to find out more. tasters are available. To find out more email: [email protected]

8 Families Hampshire West familiesonline.co.uk Clubs & classes Tumble Tots classes Individual private in Winchester, Botley tuition available and Chandlers Ford from St George’s Tutors Designed to develop children’s physical skills of agility, balance, co- St George’s Tutors was established ordination and climbing, through the in 2015 to provide bespoke private use of brightly coloured Tumble Tots tuition to students, schools and businesses for all subjects, equipment. levels and ages in Hampshire. Tutors are all experienced, qualified and DBS checked. The programme is structured to develop children’s positive personality traits including “We needed help with extra tuition. Thankfully we were put confidence and self-esteem. Each weekly session of 45 mins in contact with St George’s Tutors and have had the pleasure for the Tumble Tots programme combines fun, excitement of working with some amazing tutors who have been of and challenge in a safe and caring environment. All sessions tremendous help to both our children. We could not recommend use unique equipment and are run by staff specially trained to this company enough.... “ says Rachel from Southampton. get the best out of your child. It is structured according to the different ages and stages of a child’s development. Visit www.stgeorgestutors.comWinchester Landscape Advert 87mmW for more x 60mmH information 04.12.18.pdf 1 or 04/12/2018 to book. 16:11:02 Child psychologists and educators agree that a structured programme in movement should be a part of every child’s education. The springboard to confidence for your child Tumble Tots is the UK's Leading National Active Physical Play Programme for Children from 6 Months to School Age Join in at one of 4 locations around Winchester to see what C Tumble Tots is all about. Visit www.tumbletots.com/winchester M 45 Minute Bounce and tumble Y Classes at River Park Leisure CM Centre MY

CY If tumbling, rolling and jumping is your child’s thing, then try gymnastics CMY

or trampolining. River Park’s K Monday at Itchen Abbas (North Winchester), gymnastics sessions are based on Tuesday at Botley, Thursday at Romsey and Friday at Chandlers Ford the ‘FUNdamentals’ of movement Clio Barton • 07378 346 740 • [email protected] (strength, balance, co-ordination and www.tumbletots.com/winchester mobility) and will help your child to enjoy and master a wide range of sporting activities. They offer sessions at various levels including adult sessions.

If kids enjoy bouncing in the back garden and would like to improve their skills, then their trampolining sessions could help. Trampolining works all muscles and they will develop upper body strength without straining their joints. Sessions are run by Weekly highly qualified staff to ensure it’s safe and fun so your child can Local enjoy bouncing and learning new skills. Classes

Sessions are developed through our close links with British Gymnastics. Email [email protected], call 01962 848700 or visit www.riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk for more information.

School Holiday Clubs @ Itchen Valley Country Park A watery world of confidence, skill and fun!

It’s safe to say you’ll burst with pride as you Easter - October Half Term watch your baby journey from the early days classes held... of gentle floating, kicking and splashing to wriggling, giggling and jumping in! daily across 5 - 11 year olds Winchester, You can trust us to take the very best care of you Southampton, and your little one. Our world-class teachers Botley and could have trained as private pilots – five times Whiteley BOOKING FOR 2019 NOW OPEN over – in the time it takes to fully qualify with us. We won’t entrust your child (or our reputation) to anyone less than the best! Forest School themed holiday club, children will spend all day outside exploring and enjoying the natural To give your baby a splashing start call world. 01794 324 353 Call 01794 525510 Let’s teach your baby to swim! www.waterbabies.co.uk www.youthoptions.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 9 Early years An inspector calls! The role of an Ofsted Inspector in assessing a nursery setting activity and how it contributes to a child’s learning. “ Ofsted Inspectors also observe children and then question the Key Person responsible for those children about them. “If a child is upset, the Key Person should be able to tell me about the child’s circumstances, for instance, if they are new to the setting” says Sangeeta. “There should also be information about a child’s development, and planning for a child’s next steps.”

So what happens if there are issues with teaching methods? A lot depends on whether the majority of staff are working positively, and, where there are staff who are performing less well, that the manager of the setting recognises this. “Part of the inspection is a joint observation with the manager” says Sangeeta. ”If a staff member has set up an activity that hasn’t worked well and the manager isn’t aware of this, Whilst there are lots of important jobs” reports Sangeeta. “Being a friend that needs to be addressed. However, if the considerations when choosing a nursery of a friend is simply not good enough. I manager is aware and can support a staff or pre-school for your child, it’s unlikely also probe more deeply if I discover staff member to improve their skills, then this you’ll make a final choice without at least a members have moved around a lot.” provides good evidence that the nursery cursory glance at the setting’s Ofsted report. is working well towards improving its The acronym is one used frequently by Checking safeguarding arrangements also provision.” parents but how many of us actually know involves monitoring how children enter what the acronym Ofsted actual stands and leave the setting and what provisions Sangeeta owns two settings in Greater for or how a nursery or pre-school gets its there are for visitors. “It’s also important London. How does she ensure they meet Ofsted rating? that children are being taught how to keep Ofsted’s high standards in her setting? Good themselves safe” comments Sangeeta. communication and reflective practice are Sangeeta Gardiner has been an Inspector “For example, they need to know that it’s vital. As a team, each setting regularly fills for The Office for Standards in Education, dangerous to walk while holding a pair of out a self-evaluation form, so that everybody Children’s Services and Skills (Ofsted) since scissors.” Changes in the EYFS (Early Years involved can reflect on what works and it was set up in 1992 and has conducted Foundation Stage) framework place more what doesn’t, and a clear direction can be well over 150 inspections of nurseries, emphasis on the importance of a child’s formulated. Sangeeta is always aware of pre-schools, and child-minders. Becoming emotional security, so Inspectors also what is happening at each nursery, but also and remaining an inspector requires observe how confident and secure children stresses that the quality of her managers rigorous, ongoing training and examinations, feel in their environment and in their and teachers is exceptional. “The managers meaning that Ofsted Inspectors are very interactions with others. of my settings are experienced and well- knowledgeable. established members of the team, and Early Year’s Education is all about learning have known many of the children and their One of the key things an Inspector examines through play but the word “teaching” is still families for a number of years.” is how a setting safeguards the children used in the EYFS framework. Staff “teach” in its care. Inspectors check to make sure children about their world by asking them You can find Ofsted Reports for settings safeguarding policies are implemented, that open ended questions. “I observe the in your local area online at www.reports. staff have the relevant legal background language teachers use and how they’re ofsted.gov.uk checks, and have been properly recruited. interacting with a child” says Sangeeta.” I’ll “I’ll ask staff members how they got their ask staff why they have chosen a particular

6-8 weeks for children age 3-4 years Why well fitted shoes 2 whole sizes a year until 5 years old are so important? 10-12 weeks thereafter It can take up to 18 years for the foot’s A size a year but watch out for growth bones, muscles and ligaments to harden spurts, girls 7-12 yrs and boys 10-14 years. into adult form. Properly fitted shoes play a vital role in helping to safeguard the healthy W J French & Son is an independent development of your child’s feet. Shoes business based in Bedford Place, which don’t fit properly can cause long- Southampton, which has been run by the term foot problems. You wouldn’t trust an same family for 215 years. They are founding unqualified person to cut your hair, fix your How fast do my child’s feet grow? members of the Society of Shoe fitters computer or give you an eye test. Get your and experienced fitters have an average shoes fitted by an experienced fitter who As a guide Children’s shoes should be length of service of 20 years. They aim to can make sure your child gets the correct fit, checked for size every: give excellent customer service, a choice support and growing room for their needs. of brands and high standard of fitting. They At best, poorly fitted shoes won’t wear as 4-6 weeks for infants age 0-3 years also have a workshop on site to adjust shoes well, so never settle for anything less than Feet grow about 3 English shoe sizes in 1st for difficult feet. the perfect fit. year.

10 Families Hampshire West familiesonline.co.uk Early years Nannies and Childminders: the same or different? By Sarah-Jane Butler

There is sometimes a perception that a nanny is superior to a child-minder. After all, a child-minder looks after your child alongside others in their home, whereas a nanny is personal to you, works in your home and, unless you have a nanny share, Not So ‘Free Childcare’ looks solely after your child and, often, your house as well. Most parents are paying to access the Child-minders must be Ofsted registered government’s 30 hours ‘free’ childcare Many parents also pay their nannies cash in and have certain childcare qualifications. scheme, according to research for the hand without accounting to HMRC for the Some nannies may have higher level Department of Education. tax and national insurance they owe, so the qualifications than child-minders, such as savings overall may seem substantial. Do The research confirms that 56% of parents an NNEB Level 3 in Childcare or a Childcare remember though that not paying tax or NIC are paying charges for additional items or Degree. However, many actually have no is illegal and can carry substantial penalties activities when accessing the 30 hours offer. qualifications at all and, in some cases, little if discovered. Not only that, but it unfairly The majority of charges are for meals, snacks experience either. and other refreshments, while charges for deprives your nanny of any state benefits in the future. special activities such as music, gym lessons Unlike child-minders, nannies are not or outings are less common, as are charges regulated and don’t have to be registered If you decide to employ a nanny, do make for consumables such as sun tan lotion. or have any qualifications. All a nanny sure she has the right skills, experience and/ needs in order to care for children is a DBS or qualifications. However much money you Almost half of parents said that they had (formerly CRB) check and even that doesn’t save, there is really no advantage in 1:1 care seen restrictions placed on when they could have to be up to date. A good nanny agency in your own home if the nanny you employ is use the hours or that they had to be taken at will ensure that your nanny has the right inadequate or unsuited to the job. times specified by the provider. Additionally, qualifications and/or experience and is the research found that 39% of providers appropriately screened. However, the rise of Sarah-Jane Butler is CEO and founder of reported a reduction in their profit due to internet search sites often drives parents to Parental Choice, a one stop shop for advice the 30 hours scheme while 25% of providers find a nanny online in order to avoid agency and guidance on all your childcare needs, said that they had moved from either making fees. Unsuitable nannies can therefore slip including payroll and employment contracts a profit to breaking even or even making a through the net and may be much cheaper loss. for nannies. than a child-minder. www.pre-school.org.uk/news www.parentalchoice.co.uk

Happening history Open Morning 1st February 2019

Independent co-educational preparatory day,
exi and full-time boarding school, ages 2-13. Contact the school Registrar on 01590 613 303 or email [email protected] WALHAMPTON SCHOOL, LYMINGTON, HAMPSHIRE SO41 5ZG. www.walhampton.com Registered charity Number: 307330

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 11 Early years The importance of lullabies By Laura Jane Foley

Lullabies have been around for thousands of years. Musicologists believe the first lullabies were sung over 5000 years ago by the Babylonians. The fact that we’re still singing them today shows they certainly have longevity. Generations of parents have known that singing a lullaby to an infant has a lulling, calming effect. Across all times and languages, lullabies have the same soothing, hypnotic qualities. These are created by the use of repeated, simple one or two syllable words and repeating musical phrases which are easy to predict.

Lullabies are necessarily easy to learn and sing. Infants need to recognise the familiar patterns of notes and words and parents need to be able to sing them without having any musical education or training. Traditionally lullabies were passed on through the generations from parent to child. Popular lullabies have stuck in the nation’s conscience due to the advent of recording, television and radio but there are hundreds of unknown lullabies which are just as beautiful and effective. A Cradle Song by Ralph Vaughan Williams

However, recent research has uncovered that only 38% of This beautiful lullaby is more interesting musically than the parents sing to their child every day. Yet singing to your baby Schubert song. It has no repetition and has a range of well over is just as important as reading to them. A singing voice has an octave which is unusual as most lullabies use the same notes a greater calming effect than speech so singing has positive repeated in a limited range. The beautiful soaring melody by this health and emotional benefits not to mention the numerous twentieth century composer is complemented by the words of studies which show that listening to music improves children’s Romantic poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge: “Sleep sweet babe! My intelligence. cares beguiling, Mother sits beside thee smiling”.

You can find recordings of all the above lullabies on YouTube. Here is my top 5 list of lullabies to get you started: Laura-Jane Foley has also recorded lesser-known lullabies, classical songs and readings for her new album Songs For Brahms’s Lullaby My Daughter released by the Lullaby Trust and available from Amazon or iTunes price £10.95. Whether you know it was composed by Johannes Brahms or not, this is the tune you’ll hum if someone asks you to sing a lullaby. Composed in 1868 it is the most famous and recognisable lullaby in the world thanks, in part, to highly successful recordings by ADFAM03 Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Originally written with German words (‘Guten Abend, Gut’ Nacht’) there are several English translations.

Cradle Song by William Byrd

I discovered this sweet Renaissance lullaby in an obscure out of print music book. I then spent several weeks tracking down the words for the missing second verse. The words are completely charming; it begins “my sweet, little darling, my comfort and joy”. It’s a fairly short lullaby and has a beautifulAD melody. SEN01 I think it deserves to be much better known.

Dalmatian Cradle Song The Sheiling Ringwood School and College (6-25 years) This traditional lullaby was originally a peasant’s song from Dalmatia (a region in Croatia). Its lilting melody is hauntingly beautiful. This lullaby tells a simple story about a father being Set in a stunning, sustainable and eco-friendly 40-acre away at sea. The chorus begins “Hush, my babe, my little one” site close to the New Forest and Dorset coastline, the and the “hush” sounds like the crashing waves of the sea. It’s natural surroundings of our school and college provide calming and melodic. a rich, enabling and therapeutic learning environment for students who have special educational needs. Cradle Song or ‘Wiegenlied’ by Franz Schubert

This simple lullaby uses few notes and echoes the rocking We offer an individualised and flexible approach to motion of lulling a baby to sleep. It was made famous by the placements. Day and residential. We also offer respite superstar Italian Tenor Luciano Pavarotti who regularly sang it services for our students during the holidays. at his concerts. Originally written in German, several English translations are available which include these pretty lyrics: “slumber, slumber, in sweet dreams reposing.” Call 01425 477488 www.thesheilingringwood.co.uk

12 Families Hampshire West familiesonline.co.uk Fun ways to prepare your child for school St Swithun’s Prep School Friday 15 March Details and booking at www.stswithuns.com or call 01962 835792 for more information

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 13 Early years Early years news Walhampton expands Pre- Prep department

Walhampton’s youngest pupils have been enjoying beautiful new classrooms, with increased space, improved facilities and better access to the outdoors after exciting work was carried out on the Pre-Prep department.

Mrs Claire Holly, Head of Pre-Prep, explains: “With a growing number of parents choosing a Walhampton education, the demand on our pre-school provision has increased and we needed to make some changes. Whilst making more room for the children to play and learn we also took the opportunity to further enhance and enrich this environment.”

Each space has been designed with the specific needs of the year group in mind. Horns Drove Walhampton is passionate about providing the very best learning environment for all of its children and the new outdoor spaces demonstrate the school’s commitment to Community Pre- outdoor learning.

School & RASCALS Walhampton is holding an Open Morning on Friday 1 February, please email Jacqui Holiday Club [email protected]. Horns Drove Community Pre-School & RASCALS is a long established, Moyles Court offer community-based Pre-School and individualised learning and a After School Club. flexible approach As a parent run Charity, Horn Droves Community Pre-School focus on Moyles Court (day and boarding from age 3 providing a high standard of care and to 16yrs) believe that being confident, happy parents/carers and grandparents and stimulated leads to a successful academic are encouraged to join in and get experience. Smaller class sizes, individualised involved in their child’s learning and learning, great teaching, stimulating curriculum, development. after school provision, tailored transport and excellent pastoral care provide your children with the best possible start in life. Located in the grounds of Rownhams St John’s School, in a purpose built Richard Milner Smith, Headmaster says: “Our core values are at the heart of our lodge, surrounded by fields and trees, fabulous school and every child benefits. We offer individualised learning, a flexible they have several outings and events approach to travel and wrap around care, making us accessible to so many families during the year including Mother’s Day, who want their children to be happy, learning and achieving in our glorious New Father’s Day, Easter Bonnet Parade and Forest setting.” a Christmas Party. Moyles Court School is holding an Open Morning on Saturday 2 March from 10am- Their Holiday Club is open every day 12.30pm. Come and find out what amazing work happens every day. during the holidays from 8:30 – 6pm, for up to 25 children ages 4 – 11. New Year, new school: To find out more call 02380 737207 or preparing your child with a visit www.hornsdrove.uk little kindness If your pre-schooler is about to embark upon full- Rated time education this year, some of your New Year’s GOOD resolutions might be about helping them be ready for by Ofsted school. Sue Phillips, Head of Lower Prep (EYFS and Nov 18 KS1) at St Swithun’s, Winchester tells us how.

Friends and family might have impressed upon you the importance of your child being able to put on a coat, use the toilet or having taken the first steps on the road towards being able to read. But stop before you tackle those buttons again. The best way to help your child have the happiest possible start in school is to encourage the development of social skills. Horns Drove Community Pre-School, based in Rownhams, we offer very high quality childcare Children meet a large number of new people in a short time once they start school; and education for ages 2 years, 9 months to 4 and they will spend much of their day with the same group of peers and adults, so years. Open Mon-Fri 9am-12noon and 12noon- 3pm, term time only. The Pre-School is in a getting along will be really important. Showing young children that even a small act of lovely location surrounded by fields and trees, kindness can blossom into something much greater is one of the greatest lessons that with lots of room to run around. we can teach them. Generosity of spirit and being generous with your time are vitally • High staff to child ratios important life skills and fundamental to the practice of being kind. • 15 and 30 hours funding • £13 per session £26 for full day So this year, to really help your pre-schooler get ready for the step up to school, why not resolve to model kindness and generosity at every opportunity? Two stories • After-school club & Holiday Club which illustrate this perfectly are Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Peter H. For more details call 023 80 737207 Reynolds, and Ordinary Mary’s Extraordinary Deed by Emily Pearson. www.hornsdrove.uk Bakers Drove, Rownhams, Southampton, SO16 8AD To find out more about St Swithun’s, Winchester visit www.stswithuns.com

14 Families Hampshire West familiesonline.co.uk Early years Four of the best scientifically-based parenting books An expert’s choice

New parenting books seem to pop up all the time – so much so that the choice can be a little overwhelming. How can we know which guide will give us the answers to the questions that are most relevant to our needs, with an approach that we feel comfortable with?

I came across and read a vast selection whilst I was writing my own parenting book. I used a science-led, evidence-based approach and while the selection of genuinely research-orientated parenting books is not particularly large, there are a few books that I would highly recommend.

Your Baby Week by The Science of Mom: How to Talk So Little 1-2-3 Magic: 3 Step Dr Sarah Kuppen is a Week A Research-Based Kids Will Listen: A Discipline for Calm, chartered psychologist by Simone Cave and Dr Guide to Your Baby’s survival guide to life Effective and Happy and senior lecturer Caroline Fertleman First Year with children ages Parenting in Developmental Psychology at Anglia by Alice Callahan by Dr Thomas W. Phelan 2-7 Ruskin University. She This was the book I used by Joanna Faber and Julie for my own children. It The Science of Mom: A King This is the book on specialises in early child was a gift to us and I have Research-Based Guide discipline and young development, writes a given it many times as a to Your Baby’s First Year This is part of a very children. Phelan believes parenting blog at www. gift to others. The thing takes a clear, nicely paced popular series. Through that all discipline littledilemmas.com and that’s really great is that approach to talking the the use of practical situations can be sorted is the author of Little you can dip in and out of it, reader through the science examples, the authors into two categories – the Kids, Big Dilemmas: Your as and when you like. behind some of the most illustrate the unhelpful behaviours you want to Parenting Problems contentious parenting communication patterns start (such getting ready Solved by Science. In those first few months issues. Callaghan covers parents often fall into for school) and those you when you’re really research on many of the when dealing with their want to stop (whining, exhausted and all you want areas parents care about kids. They also provide fighting or anything anti- is a response to the exact most, such as feeding and loads of story examples, social). question you’re looking sleeping. which many parents will for, this book provides relate to, with examples While it can sometimes specifics on questions of how to deal with them. feel overly controlling, on milk, sleep and crying There is something here this book is full of clear time. The essentials to for everyone. practical advice. Parents caring for your baby. are certain to find something useful to add to their parenting repertoire.

OPEN DAyS 2nd march 2019 11th may 2019

3-16 co-Educational, day and Boarding 10am-12.30pm NEVER AFRAID TO MAKE A SPLASH ExplorE and BE Bold A Moyles Court pupil is given the spACe to explore who they Are And whAt they CAn AChieve, in A CAring, supportive And hAppy AtMosphere. GO TO OuR wEbSITE TO SEE OuR FANTASTIc GcSE RESuLTS AND FuRTHER INFORMATION www.MOyLEScOuRT.cO.uK

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 15 New year health Healthy eating trends for 2019 Do you know your kombucha from your quinoa? Every year new healthy food and eating trends pop up that soon have many people following them. 2018 seemed to be the year for veganism with vegan food lines being released in many of the major supermarkets. You can even buy vegan Ben & Jerry’s ice cream now! Claire Winter looks at what people will be trying this year.

Your Gut Matters

Gut health is fast becoming an important factor to consider when looking at your overall health. Nutritionists say that poor gut health can lead to fatigue and depression. A move away from carbohydrates, meats and processed foods and to a plant-based diet can really help your Skin-on veg and ‘root to flower’ eating – there’s vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, and intestinal health. According to Nutritionist been a shift towards not peeling veg, just courgette.” For more information, you can buy Resource member Jane Snooks, foods good for simply scrubbing to clean and cooking skin-on The Beauty of Eczema on Amazon or visit www. your gut health are often unknown or feared: – particularly something we’re seeing more of thebeautyofeczema/join for more healthy skin “Probiotic foods and drinks are fantastic for with carrots and potatoes. Similarly, ‘root to recipes. boosting the population of good bacteria in flower’ eating is becoming popular in a move our gut. Sauerkraut, kombucha, kefir, and to reduce food waste. You can cook with ruby kimchi are all readily available in health food Healthy Snacks chard stalks, the green flags from leeks and the shops and more recently in some mainstream pale green leaves from cauliflower heads. supermarkets. Don’t buy the pasteurised Victoria Prince, who has just launched the versions though as all the beneficial bacteria UK’s first vegan healthy snack kit www. will have been killed in the process! These Cooking from Scratch EnergyBallRecipes.com, is passionate about foods are also fairly easy to make at home at a making nutritious snacks easy to make and fraction of the cost. Equally as important, we Jenny Tschiesche, nutritionist and bestselling affordable for all. “With ever increasingly also need to be eating prebiotic foods such as author, is an advocate of easy, nutritious busy lives many of us are looking for food onions, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus cooking from scratch. “Whether it is meal on the go that is quick and easy. Yet we are and leeks, berries and bananas to name a few. delivery boxes or fresh organic vegetable knowledgeable and passionate about what we Good bacteria in our gut need food to survive, deliveries you can’t fail to have noticed put in our bodies and are striving for only the and they thrive on these.” that there is a definite move away from the best ingredients. Gone are the days when we processed ready meal and towards meals that are happy to just consume processed, easy, are freshly cooked and prepared. While our ready meals. Consumers are looking to have Vegetables Take Centre-Stage lives have not necessarily got any less busy, it all – healthy, quick and affordable. I believe we have decided, perhaps, that to keep up with packs of nutritious superfoods, which are Vegetarianism and plant-based diets will the pace of life we may need to think about rich in plant based goodness and which you become increasingly popular this year, as how we fuel our bodies better. Thankfully that’s can easily make at home will be a big draw in people become more educated about the where one pot or one pan cooking really hits 2019 because they are fast, nutritious and cost health and environmental benefits of eating the mark. This style of cooking is designed s av v y.” less meat. New Covent Garden market in for modern lifestyles. Jenny’s latest book The London has highlighted some veg trends for Modern Multi-cooker Cookbook: 101 Recipes While food trends may come and go, it is clear 2019: for your Instant Pot® is available from Amazon that the benefits of eating, a healthy, balanced and bookshops. diet of unrefined foods will never go out of The rise of vegetables with meaty consistency fashion. We can all make small changes to our taking centre-stage in a meal – we’ve seen a diets that can boost the health and wellbeing real increase in the usage of jackfruit, which is Eating for Healthy Skin of our families so consider putting this on your now available from the market’s traders whole, list of New Year resolutions for 2019. peeled and cut or ready to cook. This trend What you eat also affects your skin. Camille also applies to wild and cultivated mushroom Knowles, natural chef and author of The Beauty species such as cloud fungus and hen of the of Eczema says you can improve your skin woods selling well. with what you eat. “As an eczema sufferer for 20 years, I am incredibly passionate about understanding what foods you should fuel your body with to promote healthy, glowing skin. Juices are something that the whole family can enjoy - a great way of ensuring that little ones get a variety of vegetables in their diet. My green juice recipe includes an apple, lemon, cucumber, celery, and a broccoli stalk. Meals full of protein, and essential fatty acids are great for your skin. Try a salad with mixed leaves, steamed vegetables, quinoa, and homemade hummus or avocado pesto. For dinner, a great skin boosting combination is an organic piece of fish (full of omega 3s which fight inflammation) or organic meat (full of the wound healing mineral zinc) with lots of green

16 Families Hampshire West familiesonline.co.uk What’s on 12 January & 9 February Compiled by Chloe Atkinson Wildlife Watch Eling Tide Mill What’s on Totton, SO40 9HD For families with children aged 5 - Your essential guide to family Winchester Science Centre 14 years who want to make friends events this January and February. and learn more about nature We take great care in compiling and the outdoors. 10am–12noon. our events guide, but check with Suggested donation £4 per child. the venues before you leave home just in case times or prices have 12 & 13 January changed since we went to print. The Big Enormous Present Nuffield Southampton Theatres City & Campus JANUARY Southampton, SO14 7DU The Big ENORMOUS Present Until 7 January explores the pressures of fitting in, Fantastic Forces where we find happiness and how Winchester Science Centre giving can sometimes feel as good Winchester, SO21 1HZ as receiving. Tickets £7. Join the team at Winchester Science Centre for an exciting 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 & 27 January science show jam-packed full of Pirates and Mermaids: live demonstrations exploring the Science at Sea effects of different forces! Winchester Science Centre £11 per person, including entry Winchester, SO21 1HZ to the new Explorer:Space zone, rope climbing, climbing games he doesn’t realise that Puss is a Dive into the depths of the ocean upper exhibition floor, live science and bouldering. Ages 7-10 years. talking cat! Tickets from £13 at Winchester Science Centre show and Invention Studio 9-10.45am. £50 per month. as the team explore marine life, activities. Planetarium tickets sold 11 – 13 January current issues affecting our separately. 7 January & 4 February A Christmas Carol oceans and what we can do to Wildlife Tots Theatre Royal Winchester keep them healthy. Fancy dress Until 28 February Hampshire & Isle of Wight Winchester, SO23 8SB encouraged! £11 per person, Artist Exhibit - Rachel Wildlife Trust, Blashford Lakes, Your winter festivities won’t feel including entry to the new Reynolds and Cheryl Rodgers Ringwood BH24 3PJ complete without an encounter Explorer:Space zone, upper Itchen Valley Country Park Themed sessions for children aged with Scrooge – and this season’s exhibition floor, live science show Woodland Cafe 2-5 to learn and explore in natural Ebenezer will be unlike any other and Invention Studio activities. West End, SO30 3HQ surroundings. Waterproofs and in this innovative new adaptation There is the opportunity to wellies are a must. 10.30am – 12 of what is, for many, the ultimate 16 January purchase originals, prints and gifts, noon and 1–2.30pm. £4 per person. Christmas classic. 7.30pm. Tickets Shirley Bumps and Babies so have a browse and admire their from £17, under 26s £14. St James’ Methodist Church, talents during your visit. 8 & 25 January Southampton, SO15 5HE Wildlife Tots This is a weekly stay and play 4 January Hampshire & Isle of Wight Woodland Stories - Squirrel’s Wildlife Trust, Testwood Lakes, New Year’s Resolution Totton, SO40 3WX Itchen Valley Country Park Themed sessions for children West End, SO30 3HQ aged 2-5 to learn and explore in Specially-designed for children natural surroundings. Waterproofs aged 2+ and their parents this is a and wellies are a must! 10.30am- wonderful way to get creative with 12noon, £4 per person. arts and crafts and games themed around the popular children’s book 10 January ‘Squirrel’s New Year’s Resolution’ The King and I: From the by Pat Miller. 10–11.30am. £5 each, London Palladium under 2s free. The Berry Theatre Southampton, SO30 4EJ 5 January & 2 February Set in 1860s Bangkok, the Clock Tower Tours musical tells the story of the SeaCity Museum unconventional relationship that Southampton, SO14 7FY develops between the King of Climb Southampton’s iconic Clock Siam and Anna, a British school Tower; find out more about its teacher whom the modernist King, fascinating history and enjoy the in an imperialistic world, brings fantastic views. Participants must to Siam to teach his many wives be over 12 years old, physically fit, and children. 7pm. Adults £16, and wear sensible shoes. There are Concessions £12 over 200 steps. £6, pre-booking essential, call 023 80 834 536. 10 – 13 January Jack and the Beanstalk 6 January The Point Rock Hoppers Club Eastleigh, SO50 9DE Calshot Activities Centre Join Jack as he climbs the Fawley, SO45 1BR beanstalk and defeats the biggest A great way for those aged giant you’ll probably ever see on between 4 and 7 years old to start stage. Various times. Tickets from their climbing career! 3.45-4.45pm. £11 (concessions from £8) £12.50 per session, payable each term in advance. 10 – 26 January Puss in Boots 6 January Romsey Plaza Theatre Barnacles Club Romsey, SO51 8JA Calshot Activities Centre When Mark Miller discovers his Fawley, SO45 1BR father’s will, he inherits the old run Sessions will involve plenty of down mill and the family cat - but

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 17 session for the under 1s. It keep a diva down for long! Deloris offers friendship, support and transforms the tuneless nuns’ information for parents and choir into a roof-raising pop and parents-to-be.10am – 12noon. gospel group with herself in the £1.50 lead, but the publicity brings them unwanted attention. Tickets from 17 – 20 January £10 Peter Pan The Point 1 February Eastleigh, SO50 9DE First Steps: Beauty and the A magical tale full of dastardly Beast pirates, unruly lost boys, mystical Mayflower Theatre mermaids, and the infamous crook Southampton, SO15 1GE Captain Hook. This traditional A feast of dance, music, costumes pantomime is jam-packed with and lots of fun, this is a perfect sing-a-long songs, infectious introduction to ballet. 1pm. £12.50 laughter, and is sprinkled with a Leonardo da Vinci: A generous dose of fairy dust! 2 – 10 February (weekends) Life in Drawing Tickets from £8.50 Destination Space Winchester Science Centre Southampton City Art 18 & 19 January Winchester, SO21 1HZ 13 February Gallery Cinderella The ultimate day out for budding Little Lowrys 1 February – 6 May The Berry Theatre astronauts and space engineers! Southampton City Art Gallery Southampton, SO30 4EJ Experience a fantastic live science Southampton, SO14 7LP This February, Southampton City Will Cinderella get her happy- show all about satellites and Join us once a month to explore Art Gallery will celebrate the life ever-after with Prince Charming, a variety of hands-on space- the gallery and have fun getting of Leonardo da Vinci, one of the or will her wicked stepmother, her themed activities to celebrate creative with the learning team. greatest artists and scientists really ugly stepsisters (and their the UK space industry. £11 per 10.30am-12.30pm. £4. Under 5’s. the world has known. There will dogs) stop her? Find out in this person, including entry to the be a host of special events to version of everyone’s favourite new Explorer:Space zone, upper 13 – 15 February run alongside this wonderful pantomime filled with silliness, exhibition floor, live science Aladdin Jr exhibition including talks, tours songs and more. Tickets from £7 show and Invention Studio The Point and art workshops starting in activities. Planetarium tickets sold Eastleigh, SO50 9DE February half-term, such as Sculpt 19 January separately. Aladdin Jr. is based on the 2014 like Leonardo da Vinci (7-16yrs) Family Concert: Magical Broadway production and the 1992 and Drop-in Drawing Machines Beasts 3 February animated feature film. 7.30pm. (All ages). There’s even a special Central Hall That’s Entertainment 2019 Adults £12, concessions £9. Leonardo da Vinci family day in Southampton, SO14 1NF The Berry Theatre May, where you can marvel at From the music to ‘How To Train Southampton, SO30 4EJ 15 & 16 February a Life-size replica of his flying Your Dragon’ and ‘Beauty And This is a celebration of music Hairspray machine. The Beast’, through to ‘Wagner’s and dance from local young The Berry Theatre Ride Of The Valkyries’ and performers, raising funds for two Southampton, SO30 4EJ Visit southamptoncityartgallery. Stravinsky’s ‘The Firebird’ there local cancer charities. That’s Artisan Theatre School proudly com to see the full events really is something for everyone. Entertainment 2019 will feature presents Hairspray. The irresistible programme. 11am–12.30pm & 2–3.30pm. Adults over 250 children and young feel-good show. We guarantee you £8, children £5. adults, showcasing their talents in will be dancing the night away. Southampton City Art Gallery a show not-to-be-missed. 7pm & 2pm Saturday. From £7. will display twelve drawings 22 January 3pm & 7pm. Tickets from £8. which reflect the full range of Little Bees Weekly Playgroup 15 – 25 February Leonardo’s practice including Swaythling Sure Start 8 & 9 February The Science of Magic! anatomy, botany, engineering, Bassett Green Primary School, Robin Hood and The Revolting Winchester Science Centre and cartography. There will also Southampton, SO16 3BZ Peasants Winchester, SO21 1HZ be complementary exhibitions, A weekly playgroup for children Theatre Royal Winchester The perfect fun-filled day out drawn from Southampton’s own aged 2 and under. 10–11.30am. £1 Winchester, SO23 8SB for February half term. Discover Designated Fine Art collection per family. Join Robin, Little John, Maid the science behind the magic and by reputed Southampton- Marion and of course Friar Tuck as with a live science show packed based artist Greg Gilbert. 26 January they take on some of their hardest full of exciting chemistry tricks Public Theatre Tours challenges to date: A conniving and optical illusions, and enjoy This exhibition is a collaboration Mayflower Theatre king, a sinister sheriff and a magical, hands-on activities between the Royal Collection Southampton, SO15 1GE downtrodden village of peasants around the Centre. £11 per Trust and twelve museums Come and take a tour of the newly who’s ‘get up and go’ has got up person, including entry to the and galleries who will stage refurbished theatre and learn and gone. Friday 7pm, Saturday new Explorer:Space zone, upper simultaneous exhibitions of about the interesting and varied 10.30am. exhibition floor, live science show Leonardo’s drawings across the history. Hear stories from the past, and Invention Studio activities. United Kingdom, in an initiative the present and the developing 9 February designed to give the widest-ever plans for the future. 10am. £12 Mini Monets Club 16 February UK audience the opportunity to Southampton City Art Gallery The Young Ones see the work of this extraordinary 30 January – 2 February Southampton, SO14 7LP Southampton City Art Gallery artist. Beauty and the Beast Explore the gallery and get messy Southampton, SO14 7LP Mayflower Theatre with your little art enthusiasts! Discover different art techniques Image: Leonardo da Vinci, A branch Southampton, SO15 1GE Plus adults don’t have to clear up! such as; monoprinting, wire of blackberry, c.1506-12, Royal Birmingham Royal Ballet returns Pre-booking essential, call 02380 working, clay, mixed media and Collection Trust. © Her Majesty to Southampton with a stunning 834 536. 11am-12pm. £6. Ages 1-6. much more. Pre-booking essential Queen Elizabeth II 2018 family favourite from David Bintley. 02380 834 536. 7–13 years. Tickets from £12. 12 & 22 February 10.30am-12.30pm. £8. Wildlife Tots 30 January – 2 February Hampshire & Isle of Wight 16 – 24 February Sister Act Wildlife Trust, Testwood Lakes Country Capers MORE Nuffield Southampton Totton, SO40 3WX Mottisfont ONLINE Theatres Themed sessions for children near Romsey, SO51 0LP Southampton, SO17 1TR aged 2-5 to learn and explore in Explore the grounds with the familiesonline.co.uk When singing diva Deloris Van natural surroundings. Waterproofs Thelwell-themed family trail, Cartier witnesses a murder, the and wellies are a must! 10.30am- which includes a craft activity to cops hide her in a convent for 12noon, £4 per person. take home. Trail price £1, standard her own protection. But you can’t admission charges apply.

18 Families Hampshire West familiesonline.co.uk 19 February 20 February WW2 Crazy Science The Mystery of Memory Lane Tudor House & Gardens Forest Arts Centre Southampton, SO14 2AD New Milton, BH25 6DS Design an egg parachute, discover A chance to remember forgotten WW2 invention bouncing bombs fun and make new memories with and check out the science of gas this warm and nostalgic show. masks. Pre-booking essential023 Suitable for ages 3-8. 11am. Tickets 8083 4536. Ages 5-11 years. from £7. 10.30am-1pm. £8. 20 February 19 February Dazzle T-shirts Art School: Sculpt like Southampton City Art Gallery Leonardo da Vinci Southampton, SO14 7LP Southampton City Art Gallery Inspired by our exhibition on Robin Hood and The Southampton, SO14 7LP Dazzle camouflage, to design Revolting Peasants Have fun recreating Leonardo da and print your very own dazzling Theatre Royal Winchester Vinci drawings and inventions t-shirt. Pre-booking essential 8 & 9 February into sculpture using wire, clay 02380 834 536. Ages 7+. 10.30am- and more. Ages 7+ Pre-booking 12.30pm or 1.30-3.30pm. £6.50. Oddsocks head to Theatre 16 – 24 February essential 02380 834 536. 10.30am- Royal Winchester bringing their Half Term Activities 3.30pm. £20 21 February trademark humour, fast-paced Beaulieu Toddler Time – Unicorns & action and live music to the New Forest, SO42 7ZN 19 February Dragons legend that is Robin Hood! A Hands-on half-term at Beaulieu Plastic sculpture workshop SeaCity Museum will celebrate Chitty Chitty Royal Victoria Country Park Southampton, SO14 7FY Join Robin, Little John, Maid Bang Bang 50 years. Standard Southampton, SO31 5DQ Unicorn horns and dragon claws Marion and of course Friar Tuck admission charges apply. Make your own ecobrick sculpture galore… stories, fun and much as they take on some of their and investigate the plastics on the more. Pre-booking essential, call hardest challenges to date: A 16 – 24 February shore at Royal Victoria Country 023 80 834 536. 16months-5yrs. conniving king, a sinister sheriff and a downtrodden village of Is Plastic Fantastic? Trail Park. Bring a packed lunch, 10.30-11.30am. £4. peasants who’s ‘get up and go’ Royal Victoria Country Park suitable for young people aged 8+. Southampton, SO31 5DQ has got up and gone. Can the 10am – 2pm. 21 February merry band teach the baddies a The ‘Is Plastic Fantastic? Trail’ ‘Sally and the Limpet’ Story will run throughout the half term lesson? The villagers to revolt? 19 – 23 February Time and Seashore Safari The world to sing? week around the grounds of Royal The Wizard of Oz Royal Victoria Country Park Victoria Country Park. £2 per trail . The Point Southampton, SO31 5DQ Find out in this rumbustious new Eastleigh, SO50 9DE A story time special for children adventure of this legendary folk 18 February Come join Dorothy, the Scarecrow, aged 7 and under at Royal Victoria hero in a show for all the family. Toys Were Us! the Tinman, the Cowardly Lion Country Park. Tudor House & Gardens and Toto as they travel the 10am and 2pm. Friday 8 February 7pm Southampton, SO14 2AD universe of Dorothy’s imagination. Saturday 9 February 10.30am From tin cars to transformers, 7.30pm & 2.30pm Saturday. Adults 22 February Call the box office on 01962 have fun exploring and making £12, concessions £10. Snow Crowns and Icey Wands 840 440 or visit www. your own playthings from the past. SeaCity Museum theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk Pre-booking essential 023 8083 19 – 23 February Southampton, SO14 7FY 4536. Ages 5-11 years. 10.30am- Swan Lake Shimmer and sparkle through the 1pm. £8 Mayflower Theatre last days of winter at this magical Southampton, SO15 1GE workshop. Pre-booking essential 18 February Thrilling, audacious, witty and 023 80 834 536. 10.30am-12.30pm Drop-in Drawing Machines emotive, this Swan Lake is or 1.30-3.30pm. £6.50. Ages 4+. Southampton City Art Gallery perhaps still best known for Southampton, SO14 7LP replacing the female corps-de- 22 February Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s ballet with a menacing male Pancake cooking around the drawing – make your own drawing ensemble, which shattered fire machine to take home. 10.30am- conventions, turned tradition Sir Harold Hillier Gardens 12.30pm. £4 upside down and took the dance Romsey, SO51 0QA world by storm. Suitable for ages Celebrate Pancake Day by 18 – 22 February 5+. Tickets from £24. cooking your own tasty treats Holiday Club with Bright over the campfire! Suitable for Sparks 19 – 24 February accompanied children aged 4 - 12 Winchester Science Centre Room on the Broom Room on the Broom years. Booking is essential. 1.30- NST Campus Winchester, SO21 1HZ Nuffield Southampton 4pm. £12.75 for 1 child and 1 adult. 19-24 February A science-themed holiday club for Theatres children age 5 - 9 years old based Main House, NST Campus 24 February Tall Stories’ magical musical at Winchester Science Centre and Southampton, SO17 1TR Chinese New Year stage adaptation of Room on the Planetarium. Up to 24 children will Join the witch and her cat on Extravaganza Broom by Julia Donaldson & Axel be able to enjoy an exciting daily their mission to defeat the dragon Theatre Royal Winchester, Scheffler flies into NST Campus, programme of science-themed in Tall Stories’ magical, musical Winchester, SO23 8SB providing the perfect family treat activities utilising the Centre, its adaptation of the classic picture Chinese New Year Extravaganza for February half-term! This surrounding green spaces and book. Songs, laughs and scary fun features a team of performers Olivier Award nominated stage workshop rooms. 9am – 4pm. for children their grown-ups, in showcasing amazing Chinese show follows the story of the Week cost: £165, day cost: £35. the Olivier Award nominated stage performing arts. 2pm & 6pm. witch and her cat, who are flying show. Tickets £12 Adults £24.50, under 16s £22.50 happily on their broomstick when 19 February they pick up a friendly dog, a beautiful green bird and a frantic Family Archaeology Romans 20 February 2 March Sir Harold Hillier Gardens frog. But this broomstick’s not My Pet Dino Celebrate Sculpture meant for five and – “CRACK” - it Romsey, SO51 0QA SeaCity Museum Southampton City Art Gallery Visit the purpose-built trench snaps in two... just as the hungry Southampton, SO14 7FY Southampton, SO14 7LP dragon appears! in the woods to get muddy and A fun sculpture workshop making Make your own sculptures, or why find hidden treasures from ages awesome rawsome pet dinosaurs. not strike a pose like one? Drop With songs and laughs this is past. Booking essential. 10am – Pre-booking essential, 023 80 834 in and enjoy a fun-filled hands-on scary fun play for children and 12.30pm. £12.75 (for 1 child and 1 536. Ages 3+. 10.30am-12.30pm or day of free tours, workshops and their grown-ups. Tickets £12 adult). 1.30-3.30pm. £6.50 . activities for all ages. Call 023 8067 1771 or visit 11am-3pm. Free. nstheatres.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Families Hampshire West 19 LEONARDO DA VINCI

A LIFE IN DRAWING Royal c.1503-4, Collection Trust/© Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2018 Southampton City Art Gallery 1 February – 6 May 2019

southamptoncityartgallery.com

Admission is free Image credit: Leonardo da Vinci, horse, rearing A

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