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IN THIS ISSUE Under 5’s Special Plus Easter Fun

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Issue 95 March/April 2018 familiesonline.co.uk We provide the Showbiz, you decide the rest!

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2 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk

In this issue...... endless ideas for families of young children in 3-5 News & Information Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham 6 Clubs & Classes News EDUCATION 7 Education News With the Easter holidays just around the corner, this issue we have lots of ideas for how to keep 8 Are we Over-Testing Our Children? the kids entertained...... over theFrom break. If it’s theclubs and Editors classes you’re after...... take a look at pp.20-21, 10 Life with a Child with Special or ideas for family days out are featured on pp.17-19. We’re also focussing on the under fives this Educational Needs issue, so if you’re wondering about how to find the right childcare or your options for sharing 13 Schools’ Open Days Update parental leave, it’s worth taking a look at pp.14-16. Plus we talk to the owners of The Little Gym in Windsor about what inspired them to set up the business! UNDER 5s SPECIAL Happy holidays and do let us know if anyone has managed to find a white creme egg - we’ve 14 Finding the Right Childcare Provider been trying! 15 Could Shared Parental Leave Work for You? 16 Focus on Early Years EASTER HOLIDAY FUN 17-19 Spring Days Out 19 Easter Treats - Hot Cross Scones 20-21 Easter Camps & Activities 22-26 WHAT’S ON 27 COMPETITIONS PARENTING 28 A Lighter Look at Parenting 29 How Many is too Many?

30-31 SHE MEANS BUSINESS

www.familiesonline.co.uk E: [email protected] editors: Anna Collins and Rachel Bailey circulation: 19,5 00 next issue: May/June 2018 - due out: May 2, featuring: St. Mary’s unveils new-look building in the centre of Maidenhead Holiday activities and Camps A church at the heart of Maidenhead has just The improvements have also made the church completed a huge £2m renovation fully accessible for wheelchair users. T: 01628 788058 programme. Now St. Mary’s, just off the High To mark the re-opening of the building, the Street, can hold more events for the church held a week long art exhibition by Paul copy/advertising deadline: March 23 community, thanks to the light and flexible Hobbs (as above). The vicar Will Stileman said Cover image: depositphotos.com space which has been created. “We hope to run a lot more events like this as The pews have been removed to make way well as carrying on with our busy programme for chairs, the heating has had a much-needed of activities for all ages during the week.” upgrade, the floor has been replaced, a new St. Mary’s also run toddler groups on audio/visual system ensures quality sound for Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. services and an impressive new glass entrance www.stmarysmaidenhead.org twitter.com/familiestve • facebook.com/FamiliesTVE allows people to mingle before or after events.

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familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 3 News & Info

Summer Local Business Woman wins Networker of the Year

in the Alps Amanda Ayres, the founder of We run monthly events in The Business Girls Network in Maidenhead and are also Maidenhead has won Networker launching more events across of the Year at the Thames Valley the country. We already have Business and Community locations in Wales and Newbury. Awards on the 31st of January. I like to think we inspire and The awards are in their fifth year support each other every day.” and recognise businesses, The Business Girls Network is charities, and individuals that also hosting its second INSPIRE have given an outstanding Conference & Awards on contribution in the region. The Alps may be an obvious door, you can organise your own Thursday 8 March on destination for the ski season, but meals, or join the party at ‘Au Coin Amanda says, “I am delighted International Women’s Day. to have won this award. It is how about a summer visit? Summer du Feu’ for dinners that you usually For more information about offers enough green (the only dream of. Family friendly early thanks to the fabulous offline the Business Girls Awards go to mountains) and blue (the sky) to set evening meals for the children and a and online community for www.thebusinessgirlsnetwork.c you up for the whole year and daytime crèche for little ones not female business owners that I om/inspireconference plenty of fresh air to fill your quite as active as you, with drinks in run, The Business Girls Network. families’ lungs. the bar for the grown ups (or in the With reasonably priced flights Jacuzzi on the terrace) Paul and from London airports to Geneva Francesca will make you wish that then a short drive to Morzine, there this was home! All Stars Cricket programme to restart in May is a warm welcome waiting from Paul and Francesca Eyre at Chilly For more about Chilly Powder The programme has had an programme (1 x hour session per Powder. With the main chalet ‘Au chalets for summer and winter visit incredible first year with over 1,500 week for 8 weeks) and the pack; Coin du Feu’ plus two chalets next www.chillypowder.com centres delivering to over 37,000 including a bat, ball, rucksack, cap kids. 85% of parents want their and t shirt (personalised with their child to return in 2018 and bring a name). friend! Game based activities teach All Stars Cricket provides boys basic cricket skills like catching, and girls from 5 to 8 years old with throwing, hitting a moving ball and an opportunity to become a star. social skills like team work and The national curriculum of fun, communication. Held at accredited

cricket activities and games cricket clubs these courses are a Upcoming Events provides children with the basic perfect way for children to learn movement skills to begin a lifelong about cricket and make friends in a Flavours of India love of physical activity. safe, and fun environment. with chef Abul Monsur producing authentic Bengali dishes for The programme has a RRP of For more information or to you to enjoy on 19 March £40, although this can vary across register for a summer of Holder of 2 Michelin stars at Bibendum, Chef Claude Bosi the country. The cost includes the #BigMoments please visit London, will be 8 week All Stars Cricket allstarscricket.co.uk cooking on 17th April Book early to avoid disappointment.

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4 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk News & Info

#MakeforMum this Mother’s Day Calling under 18’s to design a in aid of local bereavement charity new logo for the Boulter’s to Bray Swim Trust With Mother’s Day just around the corner, The Beehive makes it into the national charity, Child Bereavement UK is This Maidenhead-based charity raises encouraging members of the public to help Estrella Damm top 50 Gastropubs money for local physical recreation list 2018 raise funds and awareness by taking part in projects. They have provided sports their new initiative, #MakeforMum. Congratulations to The Beehive, the equipment to local schools, dance classes picturesque pub in White Waltham that focuses to disadvantaged children and sports Mother’s Day can be a particularly difficult on delicious seasonal cooking, for making it on sessions to help people with mental time for families when someone important has to this prestigious UK-wide list. The list is health problems. They also organise the died. By hosting your own #MakeforMum compiled using hundreds of votes from food 100-year-old Boulter’s to Bray Swim fundraising event, you’ll be helping the charity critics, writers and chefs and contains many which takes place on Saturday 7 July. which supports families when a child grieves or Michelin stars. The pub has also just Although the event is a race and when a child dies, to continue its vital work announced it’s 2018 popular event schedule, attracts some high-level swimmers, it is a across the UK. fantastic event for first-time open water kicking off with Mother’s Day on 11th March Visit www.childbereavementuk.org or for swimmers and has a very strong and Fabulous Flavours of India with chef Abul your FREE fundraising pack jammed with ideas community ethos. Monsur on 19th March. Easter Sunday on 1st of what you can #MakeForMum go to The charity is inviting people (under 18) April will be offering a sumptuous selection of www.makeformum.org. Call the fundraising to design a new logo. They would like the seasonal offerings and on 17th April, the owner team on 01494 569048 or email logo to be clear, simple and bold, and of two Michelin stars, chef Claude Bosi will be [email protected] capture the spirit of the annual swim and cooking. Jude Kereama will be at The Beehive Alternatively you can make a donation by the fact that it is in Maidenhead. on 16th May. Jude features on BBC Two’s Great texting MUMS02 £10 to 70070 (£10 can be The winner will be invited to unveil British Menu. Dom Chapman, Chef and owner replaced with any amount) of The Beehive says “Jude always brings a huge their design at the Swim on the 7 July as smile to the Beehive - we love his visits and part of the swim’s prize giving ceremony. cooking!” The winning design will then become the Take advantage of the pub’s weekday lunch Trust’s logo. Application forms will be To Advertise here offer: 2 courses for £19.95 or 3 for £24.95. To available from Monday 12 February 2018 book phone 01628 822877 or email at www.boulterstobrayswim.org call: 01628 788058 [email protected] Over 15’s can also enter the swim here. www.thebeehivewhitewaltham.com

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familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 5 New Environmental Centre opens Clubs & Classes News in Windsor Great Park The Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust, in collaboration with Windsor Great Park has announced a new environmental centre in the heart of the historic park which was established

A fun in January 2018. The centre will allow visitors iintroduction to experience the wonderful wildlife and to ballet amazing natural heritage in this unique setting. for 2-4 year olds It has a programme of workshops, activities and events for schools, families and young Register online at www.twinkletotsdance.com people. Family and young person’s events Classes in Sunningdale,Windsor, currently include Nature Tots, Teen Rangers, Warfield, Burnham and Bracknell Mum Thrilled with Confidence Foraging and Campfire Cookery, Planting for RAD ballet grades from Age 5+ Boost from Perform Drama Wildlife, Young Explorers and Bird Ringing. Why not try a themed birthday Booking is essential. party for your son or daughter! With Perform drama classes well-established in The centre is located within Windsor Great Berkshire we spoke to Jessica Harrison to find Park, accessed at Forest Gate off the A332 out why she has been sending her children, between Windsor and Ascot, SL4 2BY Ellie (9) and George (6), to Perform since the For enquiries and booking please contact age of 4. [email protected] or go to “Ellie is a natural performer” says Jessica, “so www.bbowt.org.uk/discover-learn/windsor- Perform was always going to work for her. great-park-berks for more information George is a more reserved child who likes to Blossom play by himself. But, actually, George probably gets more out of Perform than Ellie! He has ‘Kids On Broadway 2018' A World Ballet grown so much in confidence since attending.” Class Performing Arts Holiday for “Perform is not like a stage school. The children and their parents to New children perform a show, but the focus is on York, New York! fun games and exercises that teach them For a FREE taster class For all Performing Arts enthusiasts ages 8- or for further information incredible life skills, like making eye contact, 16+ and their parents, this is a holiday please contact Lucy: speaking out clearly and making conversation” opportunity like no other, brought to you by 07813084283 reports Jessica. Redroofs School for the Performing Arts [email protected] “Initially George mumbled a couple of words alongside their Broadway contacts. The www.blossomballet.com in the shows. Now he speaks out in a strong holiday includes watching two amazing voice and smiles all the way through. This musicals on Broadway, two workshops Blossom Ballet confidence has really improved his everyday where all children will learn and perform is about having lots of fun and making new friends. interactions with family, school friends and repertoire from the Musicals in a Broadway Classes throughout the week, including weekends, teachers.” Rehearsal Studio, Q&A sessions with in Windsor, Bray and Maidenhead. “These days, we spend so much time Broadway Artistes, Last Night Cast Party and looking at our phones. Through Perform my much more. There’s also time to share with children now understand the importance of your own family as you explore the wonders engaging with others – and they don’t even of 42nd Street, 5th Avenue and The Statue To Advertise here know they’ve learned this!” of Liberty to name but a few. Contact them for more information call: 01628 788058 To book a FREE TRIAL in Maidenhead ,Marlow, www.redroofs.co.uk/Kids-on-Broadway- Windsor or Virginia Water, visit 2018 or call 01628 674092 www.perform.org.uk/try Playball now in Windsor - sporting fun for 2-9s Playball is a fun, structured way of help the community of Windsor engaging children in physical change children's lives for the activity at a young age. Progress better!” says Franchise owner, from simple sport introduction to Michael MacIntosh. mini sport classes running parallel Their action-packed lessons are with the school academic year. limited to very small numbers to Each programme covers ensure maximum learning an extensive range of and are delivered by sport and movement experienced, professional related skills pitched at CRB-checked coaches who the correct age and are well-trained in the developmental level. programme. Children have “We are extremely gone on to apply the excited to offer this fundamental skills they programme to the have learnt in a variety of sports at children of Windsor. A programme school. like Playball is more crucial than Contact [email protected] ever as children are growing up or on 07401064787, to book a with far too many alternative FREE taster session for your child options to being active. We hope to or Nursery/Pre-School.

6 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Former Secretary Of State For Education Nicky Morgan Education News Praises LVS Ascot’s Focus On Character Education MP and former Secretary of State New Head for Claires Court Junior Boys for Education Nicky Morgan Claires Court Junior Boys is set visited LVS Ascot in January, to welcome a new head in addressing parents on the September. Mr Dean Richards. importance of character Dean, who has worked in a education and praising the junior school environment for independent school for the past 14 years, said, developments in this area. She “Education from the Early Years said: “Character isn’t a one-size to Year 6 is a fantastic fits all concept, it is a opportunity to develop a love combination of traits that sets and joy of learning. I am very people apart so they can achieve excited and immensely proud to their dreams. I think LVS Ascot is resilience are great values that be offered the opportunity to probably much further along on we all want to see developed in develop my career and my own learning at Claires Court. The future of the this journey than other schools”. young people. The resilience, School and the proposed development is all very exciting and I am very LVS Ascot recently introduced empathy and initiative traits will fortunate to be joining an excellent team. I cannot wait until September.” a set of ten Learning Values and really set the pupils apart in Skills to develop junior pupils’ making a success of life as those James Wilding, Academic Principal commented on the appointment, characters, of which Nicky was are the things employers want, “Dean brings great additional experience of leadership at junior school keen to impress the importance. and they help in terms of high level, with much experience of working within a larger whole school She said employers are looking academic attainment too”. community, so is a great fit for Claires Court at this time of our for candidates that they can train, You can find out more at LVS development.” but who arrive with key personal Ascot’s upcoming Junior school Meanwhile, plans have also been submitted for a new school campus on skills that will help them succeed open mornings on March 17th, Cannon Lane. The proposal (which has met with some local opposition), in a career. April 21st and May 9th. Book will enable the school to consolidate its three sites across Maidenhead into Nicky said: “The LVS Ascot your visit at www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk a single campus providing high-quality education and sports facilities. learning values including self- or through the Registrar on Hugh Wilding, Principal at Claires Court said: confidence, risk taking and 01344 882770. “The new campus will also enable the school to further extend its connections with local community groups in Maidenhead and will allow Meadowbrook School Refines Its Personalised Primary for the provision of a number of means tested places for students in the local area.” Education For All www.clairescourt.com Meadowbrook School has environment, combining announced that it is to focus on its Montessori-based practice with a highly successful Primary school, broad National curriculum. It is set with the closure of its Pre-Primary within 6 acres and Meadowbrook is school. keen to welcome local pre-schools ‘’We have been looking at ways to enjoy this outdoor space. ‘’We to further improve what we do and would be very interested in focussing on our main Primary site building closer relationships with can only benefit the children. We our community and plan to start will then expand our facilities with Forest School workshops for local a new Sports Pavilion and dining nurseries and schools to enjoy very hall.’’ said Serena Gunn, Director of soon’’ added Serena. Education at Meadowbrook. Meadowbrook is a well-respected To book a visit phone: 01344 Primary school known for its small 890869 or email: class sizes and nurturing [email protected]

CALL TO BOOK NOW For advertising in our May/June 2018 issue Featuring: Summer Camp Special Call: 01628 788058 familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 7 Education Are We Over-Testing our Children? There is a feeling among many that the tests children are required to take at primary school in England are overly complex and a source of “unnecessary” pressure on children at too young an age. On the contrary, the Government says testing is an important part of ensuring that children master the basics of reading, writing and mathematics early on.

o what exactly are some of demonstrate how well your child The tests will be in your child's The Year 6 Key Stage 2 SAT these tests that our can use the phonics skills they’ve usual classroom, with their usual At the end of Year 6, children sit Schildren are taking? learned up to the end of Year 1 and teacher. Children will be grouped tests in reading, maths, spelling, to identify children who need extra in small groups or sometimes as a punctuation and grammar. These The Reception Baseline Test phonics help. The check consists whole class and they will not be tests are both set and marked It is proposed by the Government of 20 real words and 20 pseudo- seated in an exam style externally and the results are used that reception pupils will face a words that a pupil reads aloud to arrangement so it’s quite possible to measure the school’s “baseline assessment” when the teacher. The assessment your child will not even realise they performance via Ofsted reporting entering school from the year usually takes between four and are being tested. The tests are not and published league tables. 2020. The test is intended to take nine minutes per child. Children strictly timed, as they are not Reading Test requires your child to answer questions on passages of place during the first six weeks of should not realise that they are intended to assess your child’s text. The test lasts one hour. school and to provide a baseline being formally assessed and the ability to work at speed but each Grammar, Punctuation and measure to track your child’s exercise should be perceived by usually lasts around 30 minutes. Spelling Test consists of two parts: progress during the primary school the child to be part of their Although the tests are set a grammar and punctuation paper years. It probably won't be a formal everyday phonics activities. externally, they are marked by requiring short answers, lasting 45 "test,” rather an assessment done teachers within the school. minutes, and an aural spelling test over a period of time. The The Year 2 Key Stage 1 SAT Key Stage 1 SAT take place at the of 20 words, lasting around 15 Government has said that if the The tests are: minutes. Reception baseline is introduced, end of Year 2 in May. They consist of six tests in total, four of which Maths Test 1 Arithmetic Maths Test 1 Arithmetic takes 30 then key stage 1 tests will be t are compulsory for your school to (compulsory) consists of 25 minutes and children have to give scrapped. the correct answer to calculations, administer and two of which were questions involving calculations. optional in 2017. You should check Maths Test 2 Reasoning including long multiplication and The Year 1 Phonics Screening division. with your school as to whether it (compulsory) requires children to Check Maths Tests 2 and 3 Reasoning will be running the optional tests in use maths to solve simple Taken by all children in Year 1 in requires children to answer 2018. problems which are usually June, this test is meant to questions in two separate tests described with pictures. designed to measure problem Reading Test 1 (compulsory) solving and reasoning skills with W WINDSOR requires children to answer t number, measures, geometry and MONTESSORI SCHOOL questions about written M statistics. Children have 40 minutes Established in 1980 information of about 400 to 700 to complete each paper. Where children are motivated S words long. w to learn independently Marking of Key Stage 1 and 2 SATs Reading Test 2 (compulsory)

A UNIQUE, AUTHENTIC MONTESSORI EDUCATION THROUGH THE SCHOOL & NURSERY Children are given a score that is requires children to answer “scaled” across the whole country

questions about a more traditional so the average score nationally is o WINDSOR MONTESSORI WINDSOR MONTESSORI comprehension exercise with a SCHOOL Recent Ofsted inspection: HOUSE OF CHILDREN fixed at 100. This means if your longer passage of text. OUTSTANDING in all areas child has a "scaled score" higher Spelling Test (optional) consists of HOME PARK, NO 4 DATCHET ROAD than 100 they are doing better than ROMNEY LOCK ROAD, (OPPOSITE THE WINDSOR FARM SHOP) a 20 word spelling test involving average and if it is below 100 it WINDSOR SL4 6HX OLD WINDSOR SL4 2RQ the teacher reading 20 sentences means they need more support. 01753 868399 01753 830525 which use the word in context. For KS1 SATs you won't receive • 2 years to 9 years. • 6 months to 6 years. your child's actual SATs scores Grammar & Punctuation Test • 3 year nursery Providing care and • Baby and toddler parent (optional) consists of a grammar, unless you ask for them, but you funded children will be told whether your child is education within sessions to include four punctuation and vocabulary test, in accepted. a loving nurturing free settling in sessions, two sections of around 10 minutes working at the “expected standard”. environment. • We also welcome E prior to start. each involving a mixture of For more information visit home school learners. www.windsormontessorischool.co.uk www.windsormontessorihouseofchildren.co.uk multiple choice and shortwritten www.gov.uk and

Out of school hours: 01344 844592 • E: [email protected] answers. www.theschoolrun.com

8 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk

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familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 9 Education

experiences it differently. People often don’t realise Alfie has a condition, and then if we Life with a Child with explain, we get comments like “well, he doesn’t look autistic.” For some reason, people feel qualified to comment on your child’s condition Special Educational after only meeting them for five minutes! I have to continually explain to people that because he is classed as ‘high-functioning,’ i.e. he keeps Needs up with his peers academically and has average verbal skills, it doesn’t mean that his life is any Parents are often faced with additional challenges when easier. In fact, in some ways it’s harder, because society expects him to be a certain they have a child with special needs. Claire Winter talks way because he doesn’t have the indicators of to a parent about life with a child who has SEN. what people perceive to be ‘disabled,’ such as a Caroline is mum to seven-year-old Alfie, who approach, but schooling a child with SEN is like wheelchair or a full-time carer. I am always has autism. She says life with autism is like trying to stick a square peg into a round hole. happy to talk about Alfie and his condition as being on a constant rollercoaster, as no two In our experience, because Alfie keeps up part of a positive conversation days are the same. academically with his peers and appears to around disability.” “Some days we’re on a level, and then the ‘cope’ in school, he only gets a basic level of following day we might be hurtling down an support with things like social skills enormous drop! Alfie is autistic, which as a and confidence building. I think Alfie spectrum disorder, affects people in could thrive at school if he had completely different ways. Alfie’s main access to further support and if the challenges include social and communication school could fund a helper to sit with issues, anxiety, dyspraxia (problems with him. He is a bright and intelligent boy, coordination and motor-functions), sensory but because they don’t address his issues, emotional under-development and specific needs, he will only perform at a short-term memory problems. This means that mediocre level. Alfie just gets on with it out even basic things, like asking him to put his of sheer determination and a huge amount of shoes on or find his water bottle can be fraught self-control, so he continually slips through the with difficulties. Frankly, it’s exhausting at net. He is exhausted when he comes home times! Some days are better than others. My from school from trying to ‘fit in,’ and that is measure is if we manage to get through the when he is most likely to day without any major tantrums or without him meltdown. Unfortunately, the hitting out at anyone, and he goes to sleep school doesn’t get to see this feeling loved and protected, then we’ve had a behaviour. This is a major issue for many good day.” SEN parents, and a lot of us feel very let Caroline’s son is in a mainstream school, and down by the system.” she says that getting education and support for Caroline says Autism is often referred to as a your child at school is a huge sticking point for ‘hidden’ disability, but it does depend on the many SEN parents. child and their specific needs. “The problem with the current mainstream “The nature of the condition being a school system is that it is a ‘one size fits all’ spectrum disorder means that everyone What should you do if you suspect your child may have SEN or additional needs? Caroline says if your child is school age, your first port of call should always be their school, particularly if they haven’t flagged anything up to you already. If your child is younger talk to your health visitor or doctor. “Be able to give clear examples of how the issue is affecting your child and their ability to learn or function in a classroom setting, and how it may be affecting them at home. Keep notes if necessary. Issues at school can often manifest themselves at home through bad behaviour, withdrawing, general grumpiness, and not wanting to talk about school. Obviously, it depends on the challenges involved and the individual child, but if you suspect the issue is related to mental health, then they ought to be seen by a GP who can refer them on to the relevant services, although access to this varies depending on area and hospital trust. “Last of all – don’t give up! If we all keep shouting about it, eventually we will get heard!”

10 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk

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Start your child'S redroofS Performing artS adventure | www.redroofs.co.uk 26 Bath road, maidenhead, Sl6 4Jt and littlewick green, maidenhead Sl6 3Qy | tel: 01628 674092 | email: [email protected] familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 11

Schools’ Open Days update

School name: THE ABBEY INDEPENDENT School name: GODSTOWE PREPARATORY School name: HIGHFIELD SCHOOL and Nursery from 3 to 13 years SCHOOL for girls aged 3 to 18 years SCHOOL Address: 2 West Road, Maidenhead SL6 1PD Address: Shrubbery Road, High Wycombe Address: 17 Kendrick Road, Reading Dates: Friday 27 April, Friday 8 June although Dates: HP13 6PR the school offers private tours all academic year Dates: Saturday 12 May Friday 20 April Junior School open morning Times: 10am - 1pm Times: 9.30 to 11.30am Friday 27 April Senior School open morning How to book? phone/email 01494 529273 How to book? phone: 01628 624918 Times: Each session runs 9.15 to 11am [email protected] email: office@highfieldprep.org How to book? via website Website: www.godstowe.org Website: www.highfieldprep.org www.theabbey.co.uk School name: HEATHFIELD SCHOOL School name: LVS ASCOT JUNIOR SCHOOL Address: London Road, Ascot, Berks SL5 8BQ School name: CLAIRES COURT for girls and Address: London Road, Ascot, Berkshire, boys from 3 to 18 years Dates: Saturday 17 March and SL5 8DR Address: see website for the division you Saturday 12 May Dates: Saturday Times: 10am to 12 noon 17 March, Saturday 21 April, are visiting How to book? email: Wednesday 9 May Dates: registrar@heathfieldschool.net Times: 9.30-12pm Tuesday 6 March, Website: www.heathfieldschool.net How to book? online: www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk, Thursday 26 April, email: [email protected], call: Tuesday 12 June School name: HERRIES SCHOOL co-ed 01344 882770 Times: 9.30am – 11.30am preparatory school and nursery 3-11 years. Website: www.lvs.ascot.sch.uk How to book? phone/email 01628 327710 Address: Dean Lane, Cookham Dean [email protected] Dates: Monday 26 March Please ring the school to check the Open Day Times: 9.30 to 11.00am Website: www.clairescourt.com or Evening is still going ahead. How to book? via website: www.herries.org.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 13 Under 5s Special

needs, to comfort and encourage them and to keep them safe. Finding the Right Remember to also think about the things that matter to you and your child, and make sure you ask about them. Childcare Provider Check the Quality Most childcare providers looking after children Finding good quality childcare can be a difficult task for parents. Here is under the age of eight years usually have to be a step by step guide to the things to look out for and questions to ask registered with Ofsted. You can check Ofsted's when selecting the childcare provider that is right for your child. grade and report for the providers you are Make a List Do they operate a key worker scheme (whereby considering at www.ofsted.gov.uk Draw up a shortlist of providers using one member of staff has main responsibility for Take up References information from your local Family Information your child)? Other parents' experiences of a childcare Service which should be available from your What are their policies on discipline and how do provider can be very useful. It is advisable to local authority. Remember to check: they manage children's behaviour? take up at least two references. Childcare • The hours that childcare can be provided Do they provide meals, snacks, nappies, etc. or providers should be happy to give you names • The hourly, daily, and/or weekly cost will you need to provide them? of other parents to speak to about the service • If they have places available for your they provide. child Book a Place • Whether they are offering the 30 Book your child's place and arrange hours of government funded childcare details like hours, start date, and (if you are eligible). who is allowed to pick up your child. Visit Providers on your Shortlist You may need to pay a retainer fee It's a good idea to visit several settings to keep the place open until your and to ask questions in person. It might child starts. help to take a friend or your partner to Settling In give you a second opinion. Your child may take some time to Things to look for: settle into any new childcare setting, • Trained and experienced staff, ready so allow them time to adjust to their to learn and respond to your child's new surroundings, especially if this individual needs is their first time in childcare. Most • Busy but relaxed children who seem settings will offer a ‘settling in happy and purposeful period,' during which you have an • Safe, clean, welcoming premises agreed length of time to assess What will your child enjoy? • Outside play space whether the setting is the right one for your Here's a list of the things children said were • Cultural sensitivity and responsiveness to child and that they are happy there. most important when asked for their views: children's home life Funding Support • A staff team and group of children who reflect Friends - check that a stable group of children Some two year olds and all three and four year local ethnic and cultural groups attend so your children can make and maintain olds in England can get 570 hours of ‘free’ • Fun activities planned each day – childcare friendships childcare, the equivalent of 15 hours a week for providers all need to plan their days with Food - check mealtimes are relaxed and fun 38 weeks of the year, but check whether there children's interests and enthusiasms in mind and ask if children can help themselves to will be charges for ‘add ons’ such as materials • Planned exercise and quiet times to relax are drinks and snacks and snacks. You might also be able to get an important Fun outside - check the outside area is well • A big welcome for you and your child additional 15 hours of free childcare if you are planned, spacious and safe as children love in work and meet certain requirements. What to ask: playing outside What is the ratio of staff to children? How many Discovery - make sure there is plenty of The Family and Childcare Trust provide a useful children do they care for? opportunity for children to learn new things ‘Childcare Finder Tool’ and ‘Help with Childcare What qualifications and/or experience do the with varied, carefully planned, structured things Costs Guide’ which can be found at staff have? www.familyandchildcaretrust.org What are the daily routines and how can they to do incorporate my child's and other children's Feeling safe and loved - check that the staff routines? are able to respond to individual children's

To Childcare & Early Years Recruitment Specialists Advertise in

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14 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Under 5s Special Could Shared Parental Leave Work for You? By Mandy Garner Shared Parental Leave (SPL) allows parents to share time off work during the first year after their child is born, with dads and mums both taking some of the leave, whilst being paid at a statutory rate.

When Craig Curran and Sarah Farquharson the majority of these looked into sharing the time off after their baby said that even enhanced was born they couldn’t believe their luck. They SPL pay wouldn’t make a both worked for Virgin Money which offered difference to their enhanced shared parental pay for parents on decision. Clearly, the SPL – meaning they would receive a higher level suggestion is that other of pay than the statutory rate. Sarah also earned non-financial factors are more than Craig so it made better financial at play, such as the desire many women have to firm Berwin Leighton Paisner. His wife went sense for Craig to share the leave with her. Even spend as much time as possible with their baby. through a traumatic emergency C-section better, the couple were able to take a month of 17% of mums said they didn’t want to share their followed by hospitalisation for an infection. leave together – Sarah took the first five months leave. Having her husband to share the months after of leave alone, the couple shared the sixth What SPL does is give parents greater choice the birth meant she was not left on her own to month and Craig took the last two months. over how they manage the care of their new recover from major surgery while doing the The result for Craig and Sarah has been a born child and it can be an important building physically exhausting work of looking after a closer family relationship and a greater sharing block in facilitating change in discriminatory young child. “Mental health is too often ignored of parental responsibilities - with neither working environments. However, take up and post-natal depression must be one of the parent’s career suffering as a result. Sarah was remains very low nationally, possibly because most common forms,” says John. promoted just after she found out she was the legislation is complex and dry. HR managers Workingmums.co.uk collaborated recently pregnant whilst Craig returned from his leave to are recommending that the language is with dadswebsite www.daddilife.com on a series a promotion. “If anyone asks me about it, I say simplified and that managers are given tools of videos highlighting the need for parents to just do it. You never get that time again” says they need to implement SPL, as well as being have open conversations around Shared Craig. “I would 100% do it again.” able to give concrete case studies which show Parental Leave. One couple who took part are Both Craig and Sarah report that their the many different ways in which SPL can be Eulalia Pereira and Martin Stopher from London. managers and colleagues were very supportive taken: in one chunk or in separate blocks over a Eulalia said: “As a mother there is a sense you of their leave plans. However, that is not always period of time; overlapping with the mother for should be doing everything. I know (as a result the case. all or part of the leave and so forth. Being able of taking SPL) that Martin, on a day to day basis In its annual survey Workingmums.co.uk to read about other parents’ experiences brings is there, that he is involved with the kids. I could found that only 37% of respondents said they the whole process to life. not have hoped for more.” would consider taking SPL. The majority would One of the benefits of SPL is that dads who Mandy Garner is editor of not. Some of the reasons given were the have taken it feel much more confident about www.workingmums.co.uk, a platform dedicated negative impact on household finances, fears being in sole charge of their children. They also to finding flexible, challenging work for mums. that the dad’s career would suffer and a lack of have a greater sense of empathy about what To view videos in which three couples discuss knowledge about SPL. Some 43% of looking after a baby involves, and there can also their choice to take Shared Parental Leave, take respondents said they wouldn’t take SPL be a positive impact on mental wellbeing. One a look at the Workingmums.co.uk Youtube because it would not make sense financially but dad who took SPL is John Birrell from the law Channel.

We are a super-friendly ofsted registered day nursery providing high quality childcare for babies from three-months-old to children up to the age of five set within the bright, modern surroundings of Windsor leisure centre. Open for 51 weeks a year! Accepts 30 hours funding to find out more about our excellent childcare facility and meet our team: call: 01753 855543 • email: [email protected] visit: www.theriversidedaynursery.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 15 Children of The World Montessori and maths work. Focus on Early Years School focus on education and play Babies and toddlers are introduced within a caring and happy to the Montessori classroom and environment from 6 months to 5 parents learn about Montessori in the Little Red Hen Day Nursery has grown to become a thriving, popular years. A well resourced school with a home and Positive Discipline at the setting with an excellent reputation in the community. Beverley Holt, large astroturf garden and tarmac Baby, Toddler and Parent Class from nursery owner and mother of 2; was the proud recipient of the area for bikes and cars. 6 months to 18 months and Toddler Entrepreneur of the year award in the 2017 Windsor and Maidenhead The children select appropriate class from 18 months to 2.6 years. business accolades, in recognition of the childcare business she has built activities for themselves, which The children then move into the main develops their independence, school from 2.6 years to 5 years. up over the past 15 years. confidence and self-discipline. This Cheryl Clay and Alexis Hall are They offer parents flexible hours in their baby and toddler rooms, but freedom of choice enables them to both Montessori teachers who own, sessions are fixed hours for 3 & 4 year olds in receipt of 15-30 hours learn quickly through manage and teach within the school government funding, which provides free care and education per week for self-motivation. along with other Montessori teachers all eligible 3-5 year olds*. All rooms follow the EYFS to provide a The children also work one-to- and Teaching Assistants. stimulating curriculum and wealth of activities for children to participate in. one with their key worker learning Call: 01753 833771 the Montessori materials including Email: [email protected] Meals are provided by a specialist catering company who deliver freshly their phonic sounds, reading, writing Web: www.cotwmontessori.co.uk cooked, wholesome food that meets varied dietary needs or parental preferences; and they offer weekly musical, rugby or drama classes, provided by DBS checked and approved certified practitioners. Dair House School through adult initiated tasks You and your child can try a Stay and interspersed with creative play. For more information visit www.littleredhendn.co.uk call Play session at Dair House School Nursery children are very much part 07948 073118 or email [email protected] Nursery in Farnham Royal on 20 of the life at Dair House School and * limited places available for 30 hours & term time only & additional March 1.30 - 2.30pm to see if it’s attend assemblies and school charges may apply the right environment for your performances and have access to the pre-schooler. The nursery takes on school hall, library and dining room. children at the beginning of the term The children in the Nursery enjoy a in which they are turning three years purpose built classroom with old. It has a caring family integrated toilets and interactive atmosphere, in which the children whiteboard. are taught to behave with kindness and respect. Children access the To book the Stay and Play session Early Years curriculum, including contact [email protected] reading, number work and writing or call 01753 643964.

KiddyKare has been offering positions, as well as both temporary Nurseries and Families childcare staff and permanent cover in Nursery, cover for the past ten years! Director Pre-School or After School Clubs. Jen Wilson a trained NNEB Nursery They follow the Ofsted Safer Nurse says ‘ it is very rewarding Recruitment procedure and provide supporting childcare professionals in guidance and support in your sourcing new roles and helping childcare career. nurseries find solutions to their For KiddyKare Staff Solutions call: staffing needs. We offer our 01628 675828 or email: registered staff, clients and families [email protected] our personal experiences and advice For KiddyKare Nannies call: straight from our friendly dedicated 07471129977 or email: team’. [email protected] KiddyKare offer permanent Nanny www.KiddyKare.co.uk

16 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Spring Days Out Easter Holiday Fun

With the Easter holidays just around the corner we’ve put together our pick of the best ways to keep the children entertained in and around the local area. There’s plenty on offer to get the whole family outside (hopefully) making the most of the warmer weather and ideas for rainy days too!

Jump In! Family Arts Festival at the unbelievable true story of a Norden Farm family of acrobats and their tiger, The Jump In! Family Arts Festival is and marvellous magic in Morgan & the annual Easter holiday West: More Magic for Kids! as well Give it a Go! workshops. Try celebration at Norden Farm Centre as the return of our Family Ceilidh! something different, from circus for the Arts in Maidenhead. The Plus Peter and the Wolf, performed skills to chocolate making, stage festival runs across the full two by Chamberhouse Winds; get combat to samba drumming. All weeks of the holiday and is packed creative with Nick Sharatt’s Big workshops are £4 per person. with family friendly shows and Draw Along; and then let loose on Booking essential. films. Plus, daily craft and the dancefloor with Monski Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, storytelling sessions, immersive art Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF and dance activity clubs. On Friday 30 March, get involved Box Office / 01628 788997 Highlights include A Tiger’s Tale, in a full day crammed with low cost www.nordenfarm.org

familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 17 Spring Days Out

Spring into Easter at Odds Farm Park Daily 30th March – 15th April 2018, join the Easter Eggs- Scavenger Hunt, which will take you throughout the Farm Park, allow you to see fun daily shows with the Oddsocks Family and get creative by making Spring-themed arts and crafts, Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt at the plus enjoy fun games. National Trust’s Cliveden The Easter holidays offer the Combined with the fun of the perfect time to head outdoors and giant indoor playbarn, award- explore nature at the National winning Marmalade’s Tearoom, Trust’s Cliveden near Maidenhead. acres of outdoor play and plenty Popular with families, features such of animals to meet, including lots as the storybook play area and of adorable baby lambs and giant Cliveden maze have been cheeky kid goats, you won’t designed especially with little ones want to miss it! in mind. In early April thousands of colourful blooms fill the six-acre Also, look out for the opening Parterre whilst daffodils create a of their NEW water play attraction golden carpet on Stable Bank and coming soon! blossom and magnolia blooms Odds Farm Park is located just decorate the Water Garden. minutes from Junction 2 of the From 30 March to 15 April join M40, near Beaconsfield. For more the annual Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt through Cliveden’s colourful information, including opening spring-filled gardens on a fun times and prices visitors should family exploration. There will be call 01628 520188 or visit nature-themed activities to www.oddsfarm.co.uk complete along the way with

18 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Explore the Outdoors Blow away the cobwebs and run off those children needing to keep a look out for hidden for a full day of Easter fun every day and join in Easter eggs. Maybe even pack a picnic, there’s clues, before enjoying a delicious Cadbury with arts and craft sessions. no shortage of picturesque spots in the area. chocolate prize at the end. The hunt is open Here are just a few of our favourites: A big day out with Peter Rabbit™ at Kew from 10am until 3.30pm and costs £3 per child. Higginson park in Marlow boasts a great Gardens Normal admission charges to Cliveden apply, playground with a coffee shop. It’s close to From Friday 30 March to Sunday 15 April join but no advanced booking is needed. As the the river, perfect for a walk to feed the ducks Peter Rabbit and all his furry friends on a hunt is available for two weeks, you can avoid and you might even fit in time for a spot of botanical bunny adventure at the Royal Botanic the queues on Easter weekend and come later shopping in the high street too. Take a Gardens, Kew. An exciting activity-packed day on in the school holidays. Visit leisurely stroll around the lake at either out with games, crafts and storytelling inspired www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden or call Herschel Park in Slough or Black Park in by Beatrix Potter’s iconic tales. Admission to 01628 605 069. Wexham and keep an eye out for family the festival is included in the general entrance friendly events taking place at the latter. ticket to the Gardens (Adult - £17.00, child - Bounce away all that chocolate egg energy at Langley Park in Iver has plenty of open space, £5.00). Jump In Slough perfect for post lunch ball games, whilst the Refurbished at the beginning of the year, the nature reserve at Denham Country Park Horrible Histories: More Best of Barmy Britain park now has new bouncier trampolines, a provides an abundance of wildlife and there This brand new compilation show has never slide area with a new 6.4m drop slide included, are often events such as river dipping taking toured before and includes a special new a new toddler soft play area which is enclosed place during the holidays. Wander through scene featuring wordy Will Shakespeare! Find so you can keep track of those little ones and the woods in Burnham Beeches or Ray Mill out why the Romans were revolting! Could you great new cafe and relaxation area. The whole Island at Boulters lock in Maidenhead, has an survive the vicious Vikings? Can evil Elizabeth family can get involved and feeling fit or adults aviary and guinea pig enclosure and little entertain England? Would you party with the can simply relax with a coffee and the free wifi, ones might also enjoy watching the boats Puritans? Clap along with crazy King Charles! while the kids have great fun. A great activity through the lock. Cycle round Dorney Lake Vomit with the vile Victorians and prepare to to fit into your Easter holiday plan! or Dinton Pastures and lose track of time in do battle in the frightful First World War! www.gojumpin.com Dinton’s huge adventure playground. With Magnet Leisure Centre’s Pearce Suite 4,800 acres of parkland, there’s so much Theatre on 30 and 31 March 2pm and 7pm. Easter Holiday Fun at Wisley scope for outdoor play in Windsor Great For tickets call or email Join the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt from Saturday Park. Spot the deer wandering through the [email protected] 24 March to Sunday 15 April deer park, visit Savill garden, walk the Long 07708007876 Hop through the garden on the trail of the Walk to the Copper Horse, or just pack a Lindt Gold Bunny and follow the clues that lead Don’t forget to turn to our What’s On pages football and make your own fun! you to a delicious treat! Bring your family along 22-26 for other Easter events too! Hot Cross Scones Recipe... Ingredients: for 8 scones and add 2 tablespoons of the buttermilk, beat • 300g self raising flour plus extra for dusting with a fork and pour into the breadcrumb mix. • 75g butter, cold and diced Stir it into a soft dough with a table knife, adding the extra buttermilk if if’s too dry. The • Pinch of salt dough should be soft and slightly sticky. • 50g light muscovado sugar • 75g mixed currants, sultanas and raisins 35g 4. Sprinkle a little flour onto your hands and split the dough into 8 equal sized pieces. • mixed peel Gently roll each piece into a ball, flatten the top • ½ tsp ground mixed spice 2 large eggs and bottom a little, making sure they are • 3 tbsp buttermilk plus a little milk for glazing around 3cm thick and place them on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Ingredients: for the crosses: • 50g plain flour 5. To make the crosses mix the flour with 1-2 tablespoons of water and stir until it becomes a • a little water caster sugar for dusting BEVERLEY GLOCK thick paste, roll it out and cut into strips or COOKERY SCHOOL make it a little thinner and pipe it onto the top You will need … Weighing scales medium bowl, of the scones in a ‘cross’ shape. Brush the tops Cooking sieve, measuring jug, fork, table knife, rolling of the scones with a little milk. Classes pin, flour, dredger, baking paper, baking tray, Workshops palette knife, piping bag, timer and an adult. 6. Ask an adult to bake the scones for 10-15 Parties minutes. (AGA: roasting oven, shelf on middle How to make Hot Cross Scones…WASH YOUR set of runners and cook for 8-10 minutes). The For children HANDS scones should have risen and be a light golden Real Cooking 1. Ask an adult to preheat the oven to brown colour. When they are cooked, ask an Classes for 220oC/gas 7/AGA roasting oven. adult to remove the baking tray from the oven adults and using a palette knife 2. Rub the butter into the flour with your transfer the scones onto a fingertips until it looks like breadcrumbs cooling rack. 01844 275692 3. Stir in the salt, muscovado sugar, mixed fruit, 7. Serve warm with butter www.beverleyglock.com peel and mixed spice. Crack the eggs into a jug and jam. familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 19 Easter Camps & Activities

Buttons Creative Studio offers the best in creative education in a safe environment where children can have fun, learn, meet old and make new friends. One of their parents shares her opinion: “Our son has been attending Busy Button’s since he was three years old. He thoroughly enjoys his time at the holiday camps. It is more than just arts, crafts and play, His motor skills are improving with the activities he does here, he is able to complete an activity now. He has been taught badminton, tennis and football skills but also instilled within that is the respect for taking turns, caring for others and patience. The arts, craft and cooking activities are imaginative and interesting. It is a wonderful, safe and happy environment for you to leave your children in and I would not hesitate to recommend. Thank you both for your support, patience and helping our son, he loves holiday club!” Venue: Upton House School Dates: 26 March - 13 April 2018 Signing up for a club or class can be a great way to learn Times: Reception - 14 years: 8:30am - 4pm, Extn. Hours: from 8am - 6pm. Early Years: 8:30am - a new skill and keep the kids entertained over the two 12:30pm week holiday. Whether they’re creative, sporty or a Offers: RBWM AdvantageCard Discount, Sibling thespian in the making, these clubs and classes offer Discount, Busy Buttons Membership Card. www.busybuttons.org 07952 418212 something for everyone. COURT GARDEN LEISURE COMPLEX are running Don’t forget to say you saw it in Families when you ring! swimming crash courses for those who want to give their little ones an extra boost in their ARTSPIRATION is offering a 4 day Holiday BEVERLEY GLOCK COOKERY SCHOOL swimming. Running from Tuesday 3rd April – Workshop over the Easter break in Maidenhead, Become a star baker or champion chef with Friday 6th April and Monday 9th April – Friday Reading and Guildford. Children (Ages 6-12 years) Beverley Glock at Berkhamsted Basecamp. 13th April. For more information or to book please will enjoy working with an array of art materials Workshops run 9.30am-4.30pm for 7-14yrs: contact Reception on 01494688100 including mosaics, print making, mod roc, plaster Purely puddings is on 11 April, make treacle tart, HANDS-ON ART ADVENTURES in Old Windsor: Art casting, pencil shading, charcoal, soft pastels, etc. sticky toffee pudding, fruit cobbler & crème & Clay workshops; Potters Wheel experiences; The children will learn about the Artist Claude Anglais. Italian cookery is on 6 April, make various Story Ceramics; Pop-in & Paint, DecoPatch or Monet and his works, whilst creating their own pastas, sauce, pizza, breadsticks & biscotti. Both Foam Clay onto ceramics. Free Parking! For more unique works, and exploring and developing their courses cost £70 each. For Further booking details go to www.hands-onartadventures.co.uk own artistic talents. The workshops are a great information call 01844 275692 or visit or call Janet on 01753 206265 way to learn new techniques, explore new art www.beverleyglock.com THE ADVENTURE LEARNING CHARITY - mediums, make friends and build creative 'The Conscious Childcare option'! Ofsted Longridge Activity Centre is running School confidence under the guidance of practising Approved, BUSY BUTTONS CREATIVE CAMP offers Holiday Activity days at their riverside site on Artists! www.artspiration.co.uk 07930859567 your children an opportunity to be submerged in Quarry Wood Road, Marlow during the Easter [email protected] 2D & 3D arts, sewing, theatre arts, model making, holidays. The activity day starts at 8:45am and filmmaking, sports, cooking, games, team AMANDA’S EASTER ART CLASSES finishes at 5pm, with a sandwich lunch provided www.amandasart.co.uk for small groups of challenges, nutrition, educational trips and more. for only £40. Call 0330 303 0101 or book online children aged 6–13. Amanda will be running two Children work on the making of the animation www.alfvillages.org.uk hour Easter Art Classes in Ascot. Call 0796 882 film 'The Wind in The Willows' guided by industry JUMP IN! and get involved at 4560 or 01344 885086 or email professionals, actively engaging your 3 - 14 year NORDEN FARM this Easter. The holiday is [email protected] for further details olds in a fun and educational programme. Busy CENTRE FOR THE ARTS packed with family friendly shows and films. Plus, daily craft and storytelling sessions and art, drama and dance activity clubs. On Friday 30 March, get involved in a full day crammed with low cost Give it a Go! workshops. Try something different, from circus skills to chocolate making, stage combat to samba drumming. All workshops are £4 per person. Booking essential. Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead SL6 4PF Box Office / 01628 788997 / www.nordenfarm.org THE LITTLE GYM WINDSOR runs Easter Holiday Camps from Tuesday 3rd until Friday 6th April. Their fun-filled gymnastics camps have special themes so each one is an adventure all of its own. Vaulting Volcanoes, Caribbean Cartwheels, Hawaiian Handstands, Super Heroes, Secret Agents and more! Don't worry if you have children of different ages – sessions cater to children from 3 years to 12 years. Camps run as

20 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Easter Camps & Activities morning and afternoon sessions: about his adventures, with Jonathan friendships and most importantly days. To book your child's place 9.30am to 12.30pm or 1.30pm to and Judy and the rest of his friends having lots of fun. For ages 3-6 please call 01344 568658 or visit our 4.30pm. Book now as camps at The from Windsor Gardens. With a times will be 09.30-12.30 with a website Little Gyms across the UK tend to fill lighthearted play script and additional performance on the last day at 11.30 www.stagecoach.co.uk/bracknell up fast! Call on 01753 968 488 or songs, every child will enjoy putting and the cost will be £70 standard, CAMP ADVENTURE AT THE MAGNET email [email protected] on a play about the funniest bear £45 siblings. For 6-18 years times will LEISURE CENTRE. Camp Adventure PHOENIX GYMNASTICS CLUB is from darkest Peru - don't forget your be 10.00-1600 with a performance has days and events at the Magnet running EASTER GYM! At Unit 1, marmalade sandwiches! REDROOFS on the last day at 14.30 and the cost for kids ages 5-12. Here are just a few Water Oakley Farm, Windsor Road, SCHOOL FOR STARS EXPERIENCE will be £90 standard, £50 siblings. examples: Chocolate parties/Pizza Windsor, Berkshire, SL4 5UJ during Monday 9th-Thursday 12th April for Early booking essential. For more making/ The Reptile show / Glow in the Easter break. Gymnastic sessions ages 7-14+ years. 10am-4pm daily. A information please call 0808 208 the dark Roller Disco / Circus skills / for children aged 5 to 12 years of age. Musical Theatre Opportunity for 5134 or go to Bouncy castles /Swimming...plus Choose from a range of classes and young artistes of all abilities at the www.stagecoach.co.uk/maidenhead clinics with fully qualified British Redroofs School for Stars. Learn #workshops many more amazing activities. They Gymnastic coaches. Children will repertoire from Anastasia, La La Land, have trained staff to look after your STAGECOACH BRACKNELL has a Film have the opportunity to try Olympic School of Rock, The Greatest and TV four day Easter Holiday children all day from 8.30 - 5pm in a gymnastic apparatus. Price: £10-25 Showman and more and the chance Workshop from 10am-4pm Monday safe & secure environment. per session. Look out for PlayGym to sit on the Casting Panel for our X 9th-Thursday 12th April for ages 6- Prices are £31 per day / £29 with an Plus too - an hour's gym play for 4-9 Factor Competition. Dance Classes, 18yrs. £125 standard, £95 sibling. advantage card - £50 per day for 2 year olds. www.phoenixgym.co.uk Acting Workshops and an incredible Working on skills and technique siblings. For more information call PLAYBALL CAMPS IN WINDSOR Are showcase opportunity at the end of specific to film and tv, culminating in 01628 685333 or email you are looking for something active the week make this a 5 star quality a premiere at the end of the four [email protected] for your kids to do during the Easter opportunity not to be missed! school holidays? Why not consider EASY ONLINE BOOKING Playball? Sports holiday camps, full of www.redroofs.co.uk/Easter-Courses- fun-filled games, skills and drills! The 2018 Please email camps cater for a mixture of ages [email protected] for more from 3-8 and encourage social information or call 01628 674092 interaction and non-stop fun! Camps Redroofs, 26 Bath Road, Maidenhead, start at 10:00 and run through to SL6 4JT 13:00. Contact STAGECOACH MAIDENHEAD Their 3 [email protected] to find out day Easter Holiday Workshop takes more details or have look at their place from 4th-6th April 2018. website: www.playballkids.com Prepare to put on 'The Greatest Show REDROOFS THEATRE SCHOOL - ALL On Earth' at their Circus themed ABOUT PADDINGTON Tuesday 3rd - workshop. Every day the students will Thursday 5th April for ages 6-11 be working towards a fully lit and years. 10am-3pm daily. A pawfect costumed show on the last day to an opportunity for your bears to get invited audience. Along with learning their paws stuck into some real new skills in singing, dancing and acting. Join Paddington in a play acting you will also be making new

01628 07721 821145 422554

Bringing all the fun of the farm to your school, Home, Private Party, Family Funday or Fete, also providing beneficial therapeutic/sensory sessions for visits to Nursing Homes or Special Needs Activities. Call Pete to discuss your requirements, and obtain prices e: [email protected] • www.basilandcrew.co.uk

familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 21 What’s On Compiled by Siobhan Newman

Celebrate World Book Day at Windsor Castle, Cinderella sweeps into the Theatre Royal Legoland opens for 2018 March 3 Windsor, March 5 to 10 on March 9, with a new reef!

day? Why does tartar form on your teeth? What causes Tuesdays and Saturdays in March and April GRANDMA you to burp? What happens to food when you eat it? 5+ FLEW SPITFIRES Maidenhead Heritage Centre, 18 Park St, MARCH years 11am, noon, 2pm and 3.15pm weekends and Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 1SL 01628 780555. The Story Until Sunday March 14 BUTTERFLIES IN THE Bracknell school holidays, subject to minimum numbers. of Maidenhead and temporary exhibitions – free. GLASSHOUSE RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey GU23 £1.95 per person in addition to the main entrance price. Grandma Flew Spitfires exhibition – small charge. Spitfire 6QB Lose those winter blues with the exotic colours of www.bracknell-forest.gov.uk/leisure-services/look-out Simulator £7.50 per 15 mins. Tickets valid for 12 months butterfly wings and blooming plants from faraway lands. Until April 15 BILLY AND THE MINPINS The Roald Dahl with Gift Aid. www.maidenheadheritage.org.uk Pre-book to avoid queuing at weekends. Butterfly-themed Saturdays in March ROLLER DISCO at Magnet Leisure cupcakes and biscuits in the Food Hall and Glasshouse Museum and Story Centre 81-83 High Street, Great Missenden HP16 0AL An exhibition of Quentin Blake's new Centre Holmanleaze, Maidenhead, SL6 8AW Get your Café. Included in normal Garden entry. wheels on and whizz to the disco. There’s Scooter and illustrations for Roald Dahl's last book. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley Skate school from 3-4pm. Under sevens and beginners Throughout March THE JOY OF TOYS EXHIBITION Selected weekdays & Saturdays in March and April skate 4.15pm to 5.30pm, family skate 5.45pm to 7.30pm. Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, Guildhall, Windsor, (after school /term time) BUSY BUTTONS CREATIVE www.leisurecentre.com/magnet-leisure-centre SL4 1LR 01628 685686 Remember the toys of our COURSES Busy Buttons Design Centre, Windsor. Topics Saturdays in March STORYTIME AT MARLOW childhoods and see how toys have developed over the (check days): Be Arty, Fashion Design and Sewing, Lego, BOOKSHOP 22-26 Spittal St, Marlow SL7 1DB Enjoy a years. www.windsormuseum.org.uk/our-collection Construction and Engineers courses, Behind the Scenes. story at the town’s independent book store. 10-10.30am, Until Friday April 27 YUCKY YOU SHOW at The Look Out ideal for babies and pre-schoolers. Discovery Centre, Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire Contact [email protected] www.marlowbookshop.co.uk RG12 7QW 01344 354400 How much hair do we lose in a 07952418212 www.busybuttons.org Sundays in March VISIT ETON NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Eton College, South Meadow Lane, Eton SL4 6DW. Housing the Thackeray Collection of British Birds and other collections with more than 15,000 specimens, donated from the nineteenth century onwards 2.30 to 5pm. www.etonnhm.com Wednesdays in March and April, Sunday March 4 and April 1 TOY LIBRARY Highview, 6 North Road, Maidenhead, SL6 1PL Each Wednesday from 10am-noon, and on the first Sunday of each month from 3-5pm. www.rbwm.gov.uk Saturdays from March 3 WORLD BOOK DAY Windsor Castle Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1NJ Family Saturdays this month focus on World Book Day. On Saturday, 3 March, listen to a special story in the State Apartments and come dressed as your favourite book character to claim a memento from the day. www.royalcollection.org.uk Saturday March 3 to Sunday April 29 GAME OF CLUES: MURDER MYSTERY Cliveden NT, Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA 01628 605069 A new year, a new victim, a new killer. Following last year's crime caper, we've created a brand new outdoor mystery for you and your family to solve. 8+ Dogs on leads are welcome. Pick up the event from the information centre. 10.30am to 4pm. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Monday March 5 to Saturday 10 CINDERELLA Theatre Royal Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS 01753 853 888 A mistreated young girl, a glass slipper, two comical ugly step-sisters and a handsome prince combine to make the perfect piece of storytelling. Vienna Festival Ballet’s production spans pure classical dancing, a touch of pantomime and Rossini’s fabulous music. www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Wednesdays in March NEW STORY AND RHYME TIME Windsor & Royal Borough Museum, Guildhall, Windsor, SL4 1LR 01628 685686 Join us at the museum for our new weekly session of stories and rhyme. Parents & Guardians are encouraged to take part! 10.30-11am. FREE www.windsormuseum.org.uk/our-collection Friday March 9 LEGOLAND RE-OPENS FOR 2018 Legoland Resort, Winkfield Road, Windsor SL4 4AY The theme park re-opens with new attractions for 2018 including Legoland Reef. www.legoland.co.uk Sunday March 11 CONCERTINI: MUSIC FOR MOTHER'S DAY WITH MAIRI COWIESON Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997 Bring the whole family and sing along to 45 minutes of music from stage and screen. Including songs from Mary

22 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Please email [email protected] with any events. What’s On Event times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

See butterflies at RHS Wisley Visit the gardens at Stubbings, Spring Family Raceday comes to Ascot until March 14 March 17 and 18 on March 25

Poppins, Matilda and Frozen all performed night for the charity, Mane Chance Friday March 30 to Saturday 31 HORRIBLE find out about Easter customs and take part by West End singer Mairi Cowieson and Sanctuary. They are dedicated to the rescue HISTORIES – MORE BEST OF BARMY in the big Easter egg hunt. Barbecue friends. Come in costume or grab and rehabilitation of horses, which are then BRITAIN at Magnet Leisure Centre available. www.coam.org.uk something from the dressing up box before introduced to interaction with disabled and Holmanleaze, Maidenhead, SL6 8AW 01628 Friday March 30 to Sunday April 15 the concert. 11.30am (relaxed performance disadvantaged children and young adults. 685316. Live on stage, direct from London’s CADBURY EASTER EGG HUNT AT CLIVEDEN – ideal for children with SEND) and 2pm. 7.30pm. Tickets from £20. West End with a special treat for Easter. Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA 01628 £10 (£8 conc), Family and friends (4 people) www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk 2pm and 7pm. Tickets £14, under 16s £12. 605069 A nature-themed spring trail £32. www.norden.farm Thursday March 22 to Saturday 24 www.leisurecentre.com/pearcesuitetheatre around the estate, complete with chocolate Sunday March 11 MOTHER'S DAY Painshill A SPOONFUL OF SHERMAN Theatre Royal Friday March 30 to Sunday April 15 treat. 10am to 3.30pm. £3 per child, usual Park Portsmouth Rd, Cobham, Surrey KT11 Windsor as above. The compelling story of SPRING INTO EASTER Odds Farm Park, admission applies. 1JE. FREE Entry For Mums! Spend the day one family’s century-long, award-winning Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX 01628 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden 520 188 Join our Easter Eggs-Scavenger Friday March 30 to Monday April 2 EASTER with your mother in the beautiful landscape musical journey; and you already know all Hunt taking you throughout the Farm Park, EGG HUNT AT RUNNYMEDE Runnymede garden. Free to mothers when the songs! From Tin Pan Alley songwriter Al accompanied by their children. enjoy daily shows with the Oddsocks National Trust, North Lodge, Old Windsor, Sherman (writer for artists including Frank Family and Spring-themed arts, crafts and use Sat Nav code TW20 0AE 01784 432891. A www.painshill.co.uk Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald) to the Oscar- Sunday March 11 MOTHER’S DAY CRAFT games. New Water Play Attraction is also traditional Easter Egg Hunt across the winning Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins, opening soon. www.oddsfarm.co.uk Runnymede meadows. Hunt for hidden clues AND TRAIL Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Jungle Book,) Berkshire, RG8 7LR Make a gift for Mum Friday March 30 to Monday April 2 across the meadows and slopes of historic up to today with songs from Robert J and follow the daffodil trail. Small charge EGGTASTIC DAY OUT Chiltern Open Air Runnymede. Can you solve the puzzles to Sherman’s own musical Love Birds. A plus usual admission charges. Museum Newland Park, Gorelands Lane, win a delicious prize? Limited number of practically perfect family production. 8pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk/basildon-park Chalfont St Giles, HP8 4AB 01494 871117 chocolate treats, so arrive early to avoid also 4.45pm Saturday. Tickets from £15. Monday March 12 NATURE TOTS - Fun family crafts and Easter activities. disappointment. £3 per child. 10am to 4pm. WINDSOR GREAT PARK Windsor Great Park Saturday March 24 HEARING DOGS WALK Discover the origins of Easter traditions, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/runnymede Environmental Centre (access is via Forest Culden Faw Estate The Henley Show Gate off the A332 between Windsor and Ground, Henley On Thames, RG9 3AP A fab Ascot, SL4 2BY) A great opportunity to have walk for dog lovers for a fantastic cause fun in natural surroundings. Each session with fun activities for all the family - and will include seasonal nature discovery, your legged friend can join in with fun dog games, crafts and lots of fun! Story-time shows and agility activities. The estate is and drinks also included. All children must not usually open to the public and is full of be accompanied by an adult. Suitable for wildlife including deer and wallabies. children aged 18 months to 4 years Registration from 10am. Adults: £10, (£12 (younger siblings welcome) Sessions at 10- on the day) children (under 16) free. 11.30am and 1-2.30pm. Booking required Distance: 4k family route or 11km (scenic Saturday March 17 BABY AND CHILDREN’S route). www.hearingdogs.org.uk/support/ MARKET Charters Leisure Centre, Charters events/gbdw-culdenfaw Road, Sunningdale, SL5 9QY Good quality Sunday March 25 SPRING FAMILY nearly new toys, clothing, books, nursery RACEDAY Ascot Racecourse High Street, furniture, car seats, pushchairs and more! Ascot SL5 7JX Top class jumps, racing and Face painter and refreshments such as activities for racegoers of all ages. Sections cupcakes, teas, coffees and soft drinks. of the racecourse are split into zones, 2pm- 3.30pm £1.50 entry, £1 for last hour. providing children with fun attractions and Children free. hands-on activities. Try your hand at www.babyandchildrensmarket.co.uk traditional crafts including basket making or Saturday March 17 and Sunday 18 wood turning, get up close to furry friends STUBBINGS HOUSE OPEN GARDEN in our petting zoo or enjoy a FREE pony Henley Road, Maidenhead SL6 6QL 01628 ride - all included in the price of your ticket. 825454 Parkland garden next to the well Various ticket prices. Under 18s FREE. known garden nursery. Set around an 18th www.ascot.co.uk century house (not open), home to Queen Sunday March 25 FAMILY FUNDAY Wilhelmina of Netherlands in WW2. Large Ockwells Park, Ockwells Rd, Maidenhead lawn with ha-ha and woodland walks. SL6 3AA. A day of fun and games for all the Historic cedars and monkey puzzle trees. family. Hosted by Angela’s Appeals. 12-4pm Also open May 5 to 7. Admission £4, Wednesday March 28 I BELIEVE IN children FREE. www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk UNICORNS Kenton Theatre 21 New Street, Saturday March 17 to Monday 19 Henley-on-Thames RG9 2BP 01491 575698 25th BIRTHDAY AT ODDS FARM Odds Farm Park, Wooburn Common, HP10 0LX with award-winning storyteller Danyah 01628 520 188 Celebrate our 25th Birthday, Miller. Tomas hates reading and school, but stepping back in time with historical facts his world is turned upside down the day he and stories along with some special meets the Unicorn Lady in his local library. surprises too! www.oddsfarm.co.uk Family show, not suitable for under 6s, Sunday March 18 MANE CHANCE running time one hour. 1.30pm CHARITY FUNDRAISER Theatre Royal performance – tickets £10. 6pm Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS 01753 853 performance – adult £12, child £10. 888 A wonderful, star-studded fundraising www.kentontheatre.co.uk familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 23 What’s On Compiled by Siobhan Newman

Find unicorns at the Kenton Theatre, See glorious toys of old at Windsor Museum Horrible Histories tears into the Magnet March 28 throughout March Leisure Centre, March 30 & 31

Friday March 30 to Wednesday April 4 manager. In the ‘shack’, made from about composer’s birth. The Royal Ballet’s three Cafe with great views of Windsor Castle. CADBURY EASTER EGG HUNT Hughenden 30 wooden pallets, would-be pirates are associate choreographers celebrate the Adults £7, children aged five to 16 £5, NT, Valley Road, High Wycombe HP14 4LA led into the room and given an hour to dynamic range and danceability of other concessions available. 1494 755573. Go on a hunt for giant eggs work out how to escape. From £89 for four Bernstein’s music. £15 www.norden.farm www.historyonwheels.co.uk around the gardens and receive a players (4x £22.25 per person). Saturday March 31 to July 7 IT’S ALWAYS Tuesday April 3 DO YOU SPEAK chocolate prize. There's two versions, one www.escape3600.com TEA TIME The Story Museum 42 Pembroke CHOCOLATE? The Story Museum 42 for little ones and one for older explorers. Friday March 30 FAMILY TASTER DAY Street, Oxford OX1 1BP Feast your eyes on Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP 01865 10am to 4pm. Longridge Quarry Wood Road, Marlow SL7 the most exquisite of tea parties in this 807600 Come and discover why you www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hughenden 1RE 0330 303 0101 Dragon boating, laser award-winning illustration exhibition should never underestimate the power of Friday March 30 WANNABE – THE SPICE tag, water orbs, leap of faith or a climbing presented in association with the Estonian chocolate with children’s author Cas GIRLS SHOW at Magnet Leisure Centre wall? Try out adventurous activities for only Publishers Association and the Estonian Lester, inspired by her latest book ‘Do you Holmanleaze, Maidenhead, SL6 8AW 01628 £3.50 per session. The cafe will be serving Children’s Literature Centre. Inspired by the Speak Chocolate?’. 2pm Ages 7+. Tickets 685316. Billed as the ultimate Girl Power teas, coffees, cans of drink and cold snacks classic children’s book Alice’s Adventures in £7/£5. www.storymuseum.org.uk Wonderland, 72 artists from 19 countries night out, you’ll wannabe here for a great all day. A great day out in a beautiful Tuesday April 3 to 15, also Saturdays 21 take a journey down the rabbit hole to join all singing, all dancing tribute. riverside location. Minimum age to and 28 FABULOUS FASHIONS Windsor the Hatter and friends. www.leisurecentre.com/pearcesuitetheatre participate in activities is 8+ Castle Thames Street, Windsor, SL4 1NJ www.storymuseum.org.uk Friday March 30 ESCAPE 3600 at Magnet www.alfvillages.org.uk Follow an Easter activity trail and take part Leisure as above. The pirate-themed Saturday March 31 BERNSTEIN BALLETS - in our art workshop inspired by royal escape room is the brainchild of Shane ENCORE SCREENING Norden Farm Centre fashion throughout history. On selected Burke, of Priors Way, Holyport. The 42- for the Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, APRIL dates there will be live period music, During April FANTASTIC TALES year-old has worked at the leisure centre SL6 2PF, 01628 788997 Three ballets watch expert needlework displays and EXHIBITION Windsor & Royal Borough for 25 years, where he is now duty marking the centenary year of the dress up in our beautiful replica royal Museum, Guildhall, Windsor, SL4 1LR 01628 685686 What was your favourite clothes in the State Apartments. The Look Out Discovery Centre story as a child? Come and have a look at www.royalcollection.org.uk some of the wonderful stories which have Tuesday April 3, Wednesdays 4 and 12 been written for children by authors in TREE CLIMBING Cliveden NT Cliveden Berkshire. Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. Call 0344 800 YUCKY YOU www.windsormuseum.org.uk/our- 1895 to book (required). The Big Tree 20th January 2018 - 29th April 2018 collection Climbing Company are back again helping children and teenagers reach new heights. Show times are 11am, 12noon, 2pm and 3.15pm Sunday April 1 and Monday 2 OPEN DAY - HISTORY ON WHEELS The History on Recommended for children 6+. Dogs on Wheels Museum, Longclose House, leads are welcome. Meet in the A fun show for all the family! Common Road, Eton Wick, SL4 6QY, woodlands near the main gate hut. £20, 01753 862637 Visit this fascinating family 10.30am to 5.15pm museum of vintage vehicles, plus NAAFI www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden Why do we burp? Why do we have snot? What happens to the food we eat? Bring this voucher to get one free child with one full

paying adult*. FAMTVEAPR18 FAMTVEAPR18 Valid until 31/06/18 *Terms and conditions apply. Nine Mile Ride, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW NineBe Mile Ride,Amazed... Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 7QW Tel: 01344 354400 Tel: 01344 354400 www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery www.facebook.com/thelookoutdiscovery

24 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Please email [email protected] with any events. What’s On Event times and dates do change. Please try and check that an event is still going ahead, before you head out.

Try water sports and a leap of faith Enjoy Easter weekend fun at Chiltern Enjoy Fabulous Fashions at Windsor Castle, at Longridge, March 30 Open Air Museum March 30 to April 2 April 3 to 15

Tuesday April 3 to Sunday April 15 FAMILY WILDLIFE Sunday April 15 IVER ENVIRONMENTAL CENTRE OPEN Sunday April 8 FAMILY CEILIDH Norden Farm, as above. TRAIL Runnymede National Trust, North Lodge, Old DAY Slough Road, Iver Heath, Iver SL0 0EB 01895 Join us for a reel and a jig around the Long Barn. A live Windsor, use Sat Nav code TW20 0AE 01784 432891 270730 Winding pathways lead you through woodland, band, easy to learn dance steps and lots of laughter for a Discover Runnymede's wildlife with our self-guided allotments, an orchard and a sensory garden. Embark on Sunday afternoon. £10 (£8 under 16s) Family and Friends spotter sheet and earn a small prize. Ideal for children your own secret garden adventure past ponds, through (4 people) £32 ages 5-11. Dogs on leads are welcome. 50p per trail. willow tunnels and into our rainforest polytunnel turn as Sunday 8th April HEALTHILY EVER AFTER EXPERIENCE 10am to 4pm www.nationaltrust.org.uk/runnymede you explore the 4½ acre site. You can even try DAY - Pineapple Dance Studios, Covent Garden, Wednesday April 4 A NECKLACE OF RAINDROPS The navigating your way through our hedge maze. 10am to London, WC2H 9JA. Luxury Family Experience days Story Museum 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford OX1 1BP 4pm. Admission £4, children FREE. Home-made teas. designed to allow the family to leap into an action-filled www.ivernature.com 01865 807600 Enjoy three fabulous stories adapted day of movement and music, health and fitness, learning Thursday April 19 to Saturday 21 GREAT from Joan Aiken’s ‘A Necklace of Raindrops’ performed and laughter. You might find yourself jumping into the EXPECTATIONS Theatre Royal Windsor, as above. With with shadow puppetry, storytelling, original live music greasepaint and glitter of the circus, or pirouetting onto and a ‘crankie’ (miniature scrolling theatre set). 11am & Nichola McAuliffe as Miss Havisham the producers who delighted Windsor audiences with Travels with my Aunt the stage of a famous ballet. ‘This Is Me Time’ allows the 2pm Ages 6+. Tickets £7/£5 www.storymuseum.org.uk adults to focus on fitness, whilst children will experience Thursday April 5 EASTER ADVENTURES WITH ELYS and Our Man in Havana are back with Dickens’ timeless classic in a powerful new stage adaptation. 8pm, Sat performing arts workshops, learn new skills and perform DOLAN AND MR BUNNY The Story Museum, as above. 2.30pm. Tickets from £15. to parents. ‘This is Us Time’ gives families the Join leading children’s book author and illustrator Elys Monday April 2 MORGAN & WEST: MORE MAGIC FOR opportunity to learn and laugh together making Dolan for a storytelling session and hands-on workshop. KIDS! Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Altwood Road, memories that will last a lifetime. ‘This Is Me’ - The 2pm Ages 2+. Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997 The time-travelling Greatest Experience dates are 8th April & 27th May. For Friday April 6 THE MARVELLOUS MOON MAP The Story magicians bring a marvellous magic show full of crazy bookings 07545 915056 www.healthilyeverafter.co.uk Museum, as above. Make your own paper boat in this jam- capers. 5+ years. Courtyard Theatre £10 (£8 under 16s), Monday April 8 to Wednesday April 11 JUMP IN: MAKE packed drawing and storytelling session for little ones with family and friends (four people) £32. 11.30am and 2pm A PLAY IN THREE DAYS Norden Farm, as above. Led by Teresa Heapy and David Litchfield. 11am Ages 3+ www.norden.farm Troublemaker Theatre Company. Create a play from Friday April 6 THE UNEXPECTED JOURNEY THROUGH Tuesday April 3 JUMP IN! 3D PRINTINGS Norden Farm scratch in just three days! Explore different elements of CHOCOLATE The Story Museum, as above. Take a Centre for the Arts, as above. Led by 2.times do. Learn theatre such as acting and script writing before journey through chocolate history, stopping in some how to create 3D objects from a computer drawing. performing your masterpiece at the end of the course. unexpected places with storyteller Lucy Walters. 2pm 10am – 11am. £12 per person. Suitable for 10+ years. Ages 4+ 10am – 4pm (Wed 5pm) £90 (£80 Advantage Card). Tuesday April 3 JUMP IN! MINECRAFT FAMILY Suitable for ages 10+ years. Sunday April 8 to Sunday May 20 (approx.) BLUEBELL WORKSHOP Norden Farm, as above. Led by 2.times do. Tuesday April 10 NICK SHARRATT’S BIG DRAW-A- WALK CLIVEDEN NT Cliveden Road, Taplow, SL6 0JA. Explore the worlds of Minecraft and coding. 11.30am to LONG Norden Farm, as above. Join this much-loved See a blanket of bluebells on a self-led trail around the 12.30pm. £12 per person. Suitable for 8 to 16 years and estate. Booking not needed. Free event (admission accompanying adults. children's writer and illustrator in a family-friendly, fun applies). Tuesday April 3 JUMP IN! MOOING COW FAMILY filled draw-along for all ages. Nick's best-selling picture Monday April 9 MILKSHAKE! Wycombe Swan WORKSHOP Norden Farm, as above. Use art, books include You Choose, Shark in the Park and Pants. St Mary Street, High Wycombe HP11 2XE 01494 512000 electronics and coding to make the cow moo. 1.30pm to He's also the illustrator of Jacqueline Wilson's Starring Milkshake! favourites; Bob the Builder, Little 2.30pm. £12 per person. Suitable for 8+ years and phenomenally popular children's novels including Tracy Princess, Noddy, Fireman Sam, Shimmer & Shine, Pip accompanying adults. Beaker. Bring pencils, paper and something to lean on. from Pip Ahoy!, Winnie and Wilbur, Wissper and two Wednesday April 4 ME AND MY BEE Norden Farm Nick shares ways to invent your own crazy creatures and Milkshake! Presenters. Set amongst Milkshake’s magical Centre for the Arts, as above. Our fuzzy little friends gives loads of top tips as your draw along with bookcase, the cast of this brand new live show will be need our help and so we’re launching a political party him.11.30am & 2pm. £10 (£8 under 16s) Family and singing songs and sharing stories that all ages will know disguised as a party disguised as a show. Multi award- Friends (4 people) £32. and love. 11.30am and 2.30pm. Adults £18, children £16 winning theatre company, This Egg, invites you to save Continued on page 26 family offer £58. www.wycombeswan.co.uk the world – one bee at a time. A new comedy for Tuesday April 10 to Saturday 14 GREASE Theatre Royal children and adults alike. £10 (£8 under 16s), £32 for four Windsor, Thames Street, SL4 1PS 01753 853 888 It’s 1959 people. 11.30am to 2pm. and Rydell High School’s senior class is in Rare form. The Wednesday April 4 to Tuesday April 5 EASTER 1950s high school dream is about to explode in this EGGSPLORERS Woolley Firs Environmental Education rollicking amateur production from the team that centre, Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ 01628 829 574 Find out brought Annie, Fame and Peter Pan to Windsor. about the amazing lives of egg-laying animals on a trail Featuring the classic hits including, ‘Greased Lightnin’ around Woolley Firs and complete the challenge for a wildlife-friendly chocolate reward. Enjoy some and ‘We Go Together’, nightly 7.30pm, Thu and Sat eggsellent craft activities in our delightful education 2.30pm. Tickets from £11. centre too – wild fun for all the family. Suitable for www.theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk children aged 4-11 years, younger siblings welcome. Wednesday April 11 READ AND DRAW WITH KORKY Children must be accompanied at all times. Bring a PAUL The Story Museum 42 Pembroke Street, Oxford picnic if you like! £4. 10am-2pm Booking essential OX1 1BP 01865 807600 Join the fabulous illustrator www.bbowt.org.uk Korky Paul with Winnie the Witch and Wilbur for a fun Wednesday April 4 and Thursday 5 JUMP IN! NEXT family event with plenty of audience participation! 2pm STEPS: DANCE INTENSIVE Norden Farm Centre for the Ages 5+. Tickets £7/£5. www.storymusum.org.uk Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, 01628 788997 Friday April 13 EARLY MAN MODEL-MAKING Experience being an A-Troupe dancer in a real dance WORKSHOPS The Story Museum, as above. 11.00, 13.00 studio for two jam-packed days. Work with a & 15.00 Celebrating the release of the latest animation professional dancer to develop your technique in class, from the Aardman team, come and learn from the learn routines and create your own choreography. 10am experts how to make your own famous Aardman to 4pm. £60 (£50 Advantage Card). Suitable for ages 9 to characters. Ages 8-12. Tickets £8/£6. 12 years. www.norden.farm familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 25 What’s On MORE ONLINE Compiled by Siobhan Newman familiesonline.co.uk

Milkshake! comes to the Wycome Swan, Hear Peter and the Wolf at Norden Farm, Easter fun runs at Odds Farm Park from April 9 April 14 Good Friday to April 15

Tuesday April 10 HOO HOO’S FOR Friday April 13 FRIENDS FOR ALL Norden Sunday April 22 STORYTELLING IN THE DINNER Woolley Firs Environmental Farm, as above. Eight year old Lexi doesn’t DEN Norden Farm, as above. Interactive Perform weekly drama, Education Centre, Maidenhead, SL6 3LJ make friends very easily. If only school storytelling in the magical story den, dance and singing classes 01628 829 574 Come along and discover would allow a non-uniform day – she followed by Sunday lunch, for March it’s The what our local owls have been eating – could be herself. Inspired by Grandad’s Little Hamster from the Water. 11.30am. £3 About: Confidence building fun for mice, voles, shrews or moles? Have a go hippy stories, she fights her class teacher per person. Lunch menu from £5. 4-12s. A unique mix of drama, at dissecting an owl pellet and arrange the and the class bully. Suitable for ages 5+ Sunday April 15 MONSKI MOUSE’S BABY dance and singing specially bones to take home. Bring a picnic for years. A story about having the confidence DISCO DANCE HALL Norden Farm, as formulated to bring out every afterwards if you wish. 6+ years. Children to be yourself and stand up for what you above. Join the Australian DJ, producer child's true potential. Classes are must be accompanied by an adult at all believe in. 11.30am and 2pm. £10 (£8 and mum of two, with her dancers in this kept small to ensure lots of times. 10am-noon, £4. under 16s). interactive early childhood event. Parents individual attention. Perform offer Wednesday April 11 to Friday 13 JUMP IN: Saturday April 14 PETER AND THE WOLF and under 5s are let loose on the dance no-obligation FREE trial sessions. ART DAZE Norden Farm Centre for the Norden Farm, as above. Chamberhouse Arts, Altwood Road, Maidenhead, SL6 2PF, floor in the friendliest of discos. Get your Winds perform a magical transcription of 01628 788997 Calling all budding artists disco-dancing-booties on! 11.30am. Venues: Prokofiev’s classic tale of Peter and the and young creatives! Immerse yourself in Wednesday April 18 & Thursday 26 NGS BOYNE HILL INFANT SCHOOL, Wolf for wind quintet and narrator. Stay on three whole days of arts and crafts. 10am OPEN GARDEN AT ST TIMOTHEE Darlings Rutland Rd, Maidenhead SL6 4HZ afterwards for the chance to try the to 4pm, £85 (£75 Advantage Card). Lane, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 6PA Drama: 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am; Suitable for age 8+ years. instruments courtesy of Dawkes Music. Wildlife pond, rose terrace, attractive 7-12s Saturdays 11.15 www.norden.farm 11.30am and 2pm. borders and plantings, a box parterre and wild areas in a two-acre plot. Come and MAGNET LEISURE CENTRE, enjoy the blossom. 2-4.30pm, admission Holmanleaze, Maidenhead £4, children FREE. Home-made teas. Also SL6 8AW April 26. www.ngs.org.uk Drama: 4-7s Fridays 4pm; 7-12s Fridays 5pm Sunday April 22 ODNEY CLUB OPEN GARDEN Odney Lane, Cookham, SL6 9QH 01628 520160 This 120-acre site is ALL SAINTS CHURCH HALL, The Causeway, Marlow SL7 2AA beside the Thames with lovely riverside Drama: 6-12s (Perform X) walks. A favourite with Stanley Spencer Wednesdays 4pm and 5pm. who featured its magnolia in his work. 2- Drama: 4-7s Mondays 4pm, 6pm. Admission £4.50, children free. Light Thursdays 4pm & 5pm. refreshments. This garden also makes a Drama: 7-12s Mondays 5pm donation to Thames Valley Adventure Playground. www.ngs.org.uk CHRIST CHURCH C OF E HALL, Wednesday April 25 SARAH AND DUCK Christchurch Rd, Virginia Water, The Old Court, St Leonard’s Road Windsor GU25 4PX SL4 3BL. The enchanting world of Sarah Drama: 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am. and Duck is brought to life in a brand-new Drama: 7-12s Saturdays 11.15am stage show, featuring the wonderful characters from the BAFTA award-winning CLEWER YOUTH CENTRE, CBeebies show. Join Sarah and Duck and Clewer Parish Hall, Windsor, friends as they plan a birthday party for SL4 5EW Scarf Lady in their garden. Told through a Drama: 4-7s Mondays 5pm, fantastic blend of puppetry, storytelling and Tuesdays 4pm, Fridays 4pm. music, embark on a magical adventure. Drama: 7-12s Tuesdays 5pm, Shows at 1.30pm and 4pm. Fridays 5pm www.oldcourt.org/Sales/whatson Sunday April 29 CHENIES MANOR OPEN HILLTOP FIRST SCHOOL, GARDEN Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire Clewer Hill Rd, Windsor, SL4 4DW WD3 6ER. Fourteenth century manor Dance: 6-12s (Perform X) Saturdays house within award-winning gardens 11.15pm. holds a special charity open day. Yew Drama: 4-7s Saturdays 9.30am maze, imaginative planting physic garden Contact: and kitchen garden. Admission £6, T: 020 7255 9120 children £3.50. Home-made teas in the [email protected] garden. 2-5pm, 07798 558150. www.perform.org.uk www.ngs.org.uk

26 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Competitions and Offers with

WIN A LEGO® STAR WIN 1 FAMILY TICKET WIN TICKETS TO ‘SPRING WARS™ POE’S XAWING FOR 4 PEOPLE TO A FAMILY INTO EASTER’ AT ODDS FIGHTER™ WORTH £69.99! EVENT DURING THE JUMP FARM PARK Battle the forces of the First Order with Poe’s IN! FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL Spring into Easter at X-Wing Fighter and recreate the scenes from Odds Farm Park! The Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens. THIS EASTER award-winning park has Featuring 4 spring-loaded shooters, 2 stud The Jump In! Family Arts Festival is the annual 4 sets of Entry Tickets for 2 Adults and Easter holiday celebration at Norden shooters, retractable landing gear, opening 2 Children to give away. Farm Centre for the Arts in Maidenhead. wings and an opening cockpit with space for a From 30th March-15th April, you will be able to A fun packed fortnight of new experiences mini figure! join the Easter Eggs-Scavenger Hunt which will for children and families which take you throughout the Farm Park, allow you includes family friendly shows to see the daily shows with the Oddsocks and films, immersive art Family and get creative, making Spring-themed and dance activity clubs. arts and crafts. Plus daily craft sessions and dynamic storytelling in There's also the fun of the giant indoor play- the magical story den. barn, award-winning Marmalade’s Tearoom, Visit acres of outdoor play and plenty of animals to www.nordenfarm.org for meet, including lots of adorable baby lambs details. and cheeky kid goats. For your chance to win, all you have to do is One lucky reader will win a Family Ticket answer the question below and email your offering 4 people access to a Family event of Odds Farm Park is located just minutes from answer to [email protected] their choice at Norden Farm during the Easter Junction 2 of the M40, near Beaconsfield. Call holidays. 01628 520188 or visit www.oddsfarm.co.uk You can also enter by liking our Facebook For your chance to win, all you have to do is page @FamiliesTVE and answering the question answer the question below and email your To win an Entry Ticket to Odds Farm Park for 2 ® below in the comments of our LEGO answer to [email protected] Adults and 2 Children, all you have to do is competition posts. answer the question below and send your When does Norden Farm's Family Arts festival answer to [email protected] Which film is Poe’s X-Wing Fighter™ featured in? take place? A Summer holidays What is the name of Odds Farm’s A Nerf Wars Easter 2018 event? B Star Wars™ B Easter holidays C Christmas holidays A Spring into Easter C Moon Wars Closing date for competition entries is March 23 B Fall into Easter Closing date for competition *T&Cs apply C Jump into Easter entries is April 30 Closing date for competition entries is March 23

*T&Cs apply *T&Cs apply

*Competition Terms and Conditions: 1. Only one entrant from same e-mail address or household will be accepted 2. Under 16s must obtain parental consent before entering 3. Entries must be received by the closing date and proof of sending cannot be taken as proof of receipt 4. All decisions of Families magazine are final and no correspondence will be entered into 5. No prize is exchangeable for cash or any other prize 6. Only the winners’ details will be supplied to the Promoter of the competition 7. Families Magazine is not liable for any delay or failure by the Promoter to deliver any prize or for the quality of the prize or for any loss or damage arising in connection with the competition 8. By entering the competition, entrants will be deemed to have accepted and agreed to these terms and conditions 9. Winning entries will be randomly drawn from all correct entries and contacted via the email address provided by the entrant. If the Promoter does not obtain a response from the winner within 21 days, we reserve the right to select another winner at random 10. Automated/bulk entries and entries from third parties will be disqualified 11. This competition is restricted to UK residents only.

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familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 27 Parenting A Lighter Look at

Parenting by Anna Collins I don’t know about you, but I do enjoy taking a ‘lighter’ look at parenthood. n a World where everything we normal. After all, as it’s often she just sent her child in anyway, do as a parent is scrutinised, I mentioned, no one ever studied or saying ‘Have a nice day!’ and Ifind it rather comforting to know passed an exam to become a escaped….rather quickly I bet. that there are some others out parent. When researching this We’ve all been there, wondering if there who find it all a little article, I found an online video of our child’s costume is correct or overwhelming sometimes. Use of Davina McCall cringing about the maybe forgetting completely! the term ‘parenting fails’, humorous time she dropped her children at Of course, Bad Moms, mummy bloggers and the rise of school and accidently left her baby Motherland and Hurrah for Gin films and programmes like in the class room when she came over-emphasise the difficulties of ‘Motherland’ and ‘Bad Moms’ can to leave. It makes me smile, parenthood and turn this into actually make us feel like we are because in reality there probably is humour - they are entertainment grandmothers. They didn’t have not the only ones and allow us to one time when most of us have after all. For me it’s the simple, social media and an abundance of laugh out loud every now and then. ‘forgotten’ the baby momentarily. down to earth things that make me soft-play venues and hilarious films I think it is very healthy, very laugh because I can relate so well. about parenting. For them maybe needed and let’s be honest, most I also love Holly Willoughby’s Seeing someone else have the it was the presence of the people will take it with a pinch of story of dressing her child in a same struggle to make a birthday extended family and close salt. ‘Where’s Wally’ outfit for a school cake until 3 in the morning (boy is community living that helped get It’s great to see the online photo, when it was meant to be this time consuming by the way!), them through parenthood. Without footage of various celebrities the headteacher dressing as ‘Wally’, someone else get stressed racing a doubt I’m sure they also had a talking about their ‘parenting fails’ hiding in a sea of school children wearing stripes! She even admits to do pick up or someone else giggle about it all at times. and by doing so, helping us to feel feeling a little bit guilty they’ve not achieved regular attendance at the I need to wrap this article up as I PTA can make me feel a tiny bit have naturally left it a little bit better and see the funny side. uncomfortably close to school pick up time to leave. No time to make Just seeing a Hurrah for Gin post sure I’m a yummy mummy; it’s pop up on my news feed with dash and go. Like so many other some amusing anecdote about mums (or parents I should say) life adulthood verses childhood can is hectic, juggling childcare, work sometimes be enough to help send and looking after myself and the me on my way to the school pick husband. I should emphasize that up with a smile on my face. I really essentially I feel very lucky to have must buy one of the books and what I have and, at the appropriate read it next time I manage to moments; the ability to laugh at the escape from the children and hide tough times. Thanks to Davina, in the bathroom. Holly and my own groups of lovely It really makes me wonder what mum friends, I know I’m not the it was like for our mothers and only one.

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28 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk Parenting

but plenty of families have second being shepherded around in or third children whilst their first is pursuit of the older child. Forget all still in nappies, or with a very small those baby clubs and classes you age gap between them. Just how signed up for with number one much does that change things? child, there’s no time for any of For us a lot changed. Having that with subsequent children as so three meant we had to buy a often they need to slot into the bigger car in order to get three car existing routine. If I’m honest that’s seats across the back. A trip to the probably the main reason for the supermarket generally results in a aforementioned, as yet fight over who gets to stand in the unsuccessful, swimming lessons. back versus who gets the ‘baby’ Yes, I do think learning to swim is seat (the exception being the time I an important life skill, but I’m also spotted a twin seater 15 trolleys aware their older brother has had deep and spent a slightly demented more opportunities than they have 10 minutes moving trolleys around and I’m trying to level the playing to get to it whilst one child leant on field (and swimming is something the car horn and other shoppers the twins can both do at the same kept trying to return their trolleys time, so win win, no?). pushing my coveted trolley further Having children with different in) and being constantly interests also makes for a busy life outnumbered means I’m always and it’s not necessarily gender living in fear of losing one of them! related. I’d never had to consider I am often ‘that mum’, shouting ballet classes before and now I after one to slow down on their How Many is have one who’d like to try dancing, bike whilst simultaneously urging a boy who’d like to give football a another to stop lagging behind go and another who prefers drama picking up sticks. too Many? to sport – I’m not sure there are Then there’s the fact that the enough hours in the day! second (or third) child is constantly Rachel Bailey explores some of the challenges she faces as a mum of three.

tanding at the edge of the it’s impossible discreetly swimming pool trying to coax breastfeeding two in public and Smy daughter in for her lesson feeding them one after the other recently, I wondered, not for the took forever. Thankfully I had no first time, if adding an extra- shortage of friends willing to sit in curricular activity to our already coffee shops for hours in those busy day was perhaps a step too early days. I remember the first far. When I was pregnant with the time I actually realised maybe life twins, I remember defiantly wasn’t going to be quite as simple, brushing off comments that I’d was at a parent and baby cinema now find it difficult to leave the screening with a friend (something house. I didn’t need that kind of I’d never done with my singleton negativity, I had to get out for the which surely would’ve been the school run and frankly how hard best time to try it!). Realising I could it be? Babies don’t do much, couldn’t take the buggy to the door even if I would have two of them! and would have to carry them We did manage to get out and both, plus a changing bag and then about in those early days though it somehow balance two children on wasn’t always easy (I think it took my knee for the duration, was a bit me 6 months to get to school on of an eye opener! Then, once they time!). Believe me I love having started walking/climbing/running a three children, but so determined trip to the park became a whole lot was I that life would continue as more stressful. Another twin mum normal, that when I come up once said to me the best bit of against different challenges, it still advice she had was to run after the takes me a bit by surprise! one in mortal danger! Definitely something I’ve had to bear in mind. Obviously having two the same Admittedly having twins is different, age presents its own challenges – familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 29 She Means Business...

At Families we love hearing about new family friendly businesses! Mums Andrea and Matina (otherwise known as Captain of Cartwheels!) took the leap and opened The Little Gym in Windsor after witnessing first-hand how gymnastics can help grow confidence in children. Owners, friends, gymnastics coaches and passionate business women, they talk to Families about what you can expect from their gymnastics classes with a difference. an award-winning IT business. We have been open 12 weeks, and What would your advice be to Who are you? We’re both qualified gymnastics our gym is full of smiles, children other business women? We are so many different people in coaches with child development whose confidence is growing one Breaking out on your own is one! Mums, entrepreneurs, expertise and a passion for making roll, cartwheel or somersault at a terrifying – it’s like jumping off a gymnastics coaches, child a difference. Doing it every day was time. If we make learning fun, it’s cliff! What if it doesn’t work? What development buffs, friends, a natural next step! amazing how quickly children about finances? Am I up to the motivators and more! When you progress, and how fantastic they challenge? run a The Little Gym, two families, What inspired you to set up the feel! and are part of an amazing Most of us have stayed in a job, business? community, you take on many Matina: As a Mum and gymnast, I Nearly 300 families attend our feeling dissatisfied but not brave wonderful roles. was in awe of The Little Gym’s classes each week, and they tell us enough to leave. And then we take approach to gymnastics and child they see a real difference in their the leap, get a new job … and later Tell us a bit about the business? development after my family’s children. Our next goal is to tell our friends: “I should have done We are all about growing happy, personal experience. welcome more families and help it sooner!”. healthy, confident children. Our more children. We’ve just Be brave, be courageous, do your classes blend gymnastics and child My son is naturally shy and lacked expanded to offer eight new development, and they’re based on classes, adding space for 150 new research and grasp every the confidence to join in group opportunity. Surround yourself with a rich curriculum – The Little Gym activities. He was missing out on so families to join our wonderful has been doing this for forty years! community of members. smart people, hire passionate and much, and we wanted to help him. qualified staff… and be committed So we took him to a The Little We do much more than just teach We’ll also be opening a new The to doing good for those around Gym. His confidence just Little Gym in South you. You can do it! gymnastics. Our programme is blossomed! And he carried that designed to give children Buckinghamshire. For more information visit new confidence everywhere he Follow us at www.facebook.com/ confidence, courage and resilience went. A new world of experiences www.windsor.thelittlegym.eu or too – a foundation that will help thelittlegymwindsor to find out call 01753 968 488 suddenly opened to him. It was life more! them grasp every opportunity in changing. life, and manage life’s challenges. We wanted to share that wonderful We build children’s bodies, brains, opportunity with other families, so and social and emotional skills – all we set about opening The Little with the joy of feeling their feet fly! Gym Windsor. And we give all children – sporty or Classifieds not; 4 months or 12 years old – What are your plans for the opportunities to love movement, future? make friends, and feel valued, Andrea: We want to give families an challenged and successful. oasis in Windsor. Somewhere they can grow together, and children What did you use to do? Did you can burn energy, build their bodies, change career to do this? boost their brains, and develop life Matina spent 25 years in skills while having fun. communications, and Andrea ran

30 • Maidenhead • Windsor • Marlow • Ascot • Slough • Egham familiesonline.co.uk ...She Means Business

Fellow twin mum and expert juggler What are your plans for the future? We currently run three days a week in Marlow, Helen, took over her business – Maidenhead and Bourne End. Now Blake is Tumble Tots Marlow when she was getting a bit older and with the girls starting pregnant with her third child! She school in September, I can start to think about talks to Families about what adding other days and venues to bring Tumble cemented her decision and why she Tots to more families in the area. I have spent hours looking for potential new venues! I also believes it’s the best thing she’s want to make sure the classes we are delivering done. are outstanding. I have an amazing team of coaches who work in the classes and I’ve been Who are you? working with our head office on making sure My name is Helen Otto and I live with my they have great training so that they really husband, twin 3-year-old daughters, Lexie and know their stuff! We’re also refreshing our Aurelia, and our son Blake, who was born in lesson plans to make the most of our unique September. equipment and actions songs, and we’ll be introducing more themed sessions too. Tell us a bit about the business? interested buyers for Tumble Tots Marlow. It Tumble Tots is a physical play programme for What would your advice be to other pre-schoolers. We offer classes where children seemed like the perfect opportunity for me – a chance to spend more time with my children business women? can develop their physical skills of balance, I live by the motto that ‘it’s better to regret the and continue my career development by agility, climbing and co-ordination, whilst at things you do, than the things you don’t do’. running my own business. The girls seemed to the same time stimulating their imagination, Juggling a young family and a new business is be growing up so fast and I felt like I was and developing their language and social skills. exhausting and there are many days when I feel missing out. We’d been going to Tumble Tots Our sessions are structured around the like I’ve bitten off way more than I can chew. in Marlow for a couple of years and loved the different ages and stages of a child's But I’m learning so much and I know that in the classes. I’d been a competitive swimmer right development, from 6 months to 5 years. Each long run this will be one of the best things I’ve up until my late teenage years, so doing week we combine fun, excitement and done. challenge in a safe and caring environment, something in sport really appealed to me, and I with our unique equipment and team of love working with kids. Seeing children grow To find out more about Helen’s classes visit specially trained coaches. in confidence and ability week after week is so www.tumbletots.com/Marlow or call 07709 rewarding. 496876 What did you use to do? Did you change career to do this? For 7 years I’d worked in London, most recently as Head of Brand Marketing for a national media company. In Spring 2017 I became pregnant with Blake and when the opportunity arose to take voluntary redundancy, I took the plunge and left. It was a big decision that I agonised over with my family. My head was saying I should stick with the security of my job, but my heart wanting a change of lifestyle and a fresh challenge.

What inspired you to set up the business? It was a little bit of fate really. Just after I was told about the restructure at work, I got an email from the existing franchisee asking for

familiesonline.co.uk Email: [email protected] • Tel: 01628 788058 Families Thames Valley East • 31 Families Thames Valley East 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 contents of Families Thames Valley East are fully protected by copyright and none of the editorial or photographic matter may be reproduced in any form without prior consent of Families Thames Valley East. 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.