families solent west issue 28 may/ june 2012

FREEIssue 28 – May/ June 2012

SOLENT WEST

In this issue:In this issue:

•• Your local Your local party guideparty guide

•• Cycling with Cycling with the familythe family

•• What’s on in What’s on in May and JuneMay and June

WINWIN a family a family break with break with Feather Down Feather Down FarmFarm

2 Families Solent West May – June 2012

3May – June 2012 Families Solent West

Copyright: Families Solent West, May/ June 2012.Data Protection: if you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition offering prizes in Families Solent West, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes. If you would prefer us NOT to do so please state this clearly on your entry.Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners own risk and whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent West nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence. Families Groups: Families Solent West is part of a group established in 1990, headed by Families South West. All magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

SOLENT WEST

Contents4 – 5 Local news All the latest local news

and information.

6 – 7 Education news Why you shouldn’t stop your toddler from writing on your walls.

8 - 9 Birthday parties Your guide to local

party providers.

10-11 Cycling with the family.

12 – 15 What’s on Your guide to what’s on in

Hampshire in May and June.

Cover image courtesy of Nicola Maria Photography. © Nikki Wilkinson

Editor: Rebecca CarrFamilies Solent West0808 108 [email protected] issue: July/ August 2012Booking deadline: 25 May 2012Copy deadline: 6 June 201234,000 readers per issueDesign: Matobo DesignPrinted by Bishops Printerswww.familiessolentwest.co.uk

@familiessolentw

like us on facebook

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eyIn the next issue:■ Summer family days out ■ Holiday clubs and activities■ Olympic Torch Relay in Hampshire

Book your advert today.


News and Information

Swimming classes with Duckling Dives

Babies are born with natural swimming reflexes. At Duckling Dives we teach techniques that stimulate these natural reflexes with

the ultimate aim of turning them into conscious swimming movements. Our carefully designed swim programme is designed to create an excellent foundation for your child’s future in the water, promoting safe practices and confidence. Our classes are an ideal environment for parents and their new babies to bond, for children to begin to socialise and for whole families to spend quality time together. Class available at various locations including Winchester and Southampton. Don’t miss out on our competitive prices.Readers special off Swim at the 4 star Novotel Hotel in Southampton. Book with a friend and you will both receive a 10% discount. Subject to availability.Call now 01962 860 588 or email [email protected]

The New Forest and Hampshire County Show – a summer day out for all the familyStart the school holidays with a bang! - The New Forest Show is on from Tuesday 24th – Thursday 26th July. ‘Best of British’ is the theme and there is so much to see and do. The Family Fun area offers all day free entertainment, including dancing, face-painting, circus workshops and listening to magical story telling, plus a whole range of sporting activities from pole climbing to football. There are children’s competitions, quizzes and games in almost every marquee across the Showground and there is also a treasure trail around the showground with great prizes to be won. Some of the highlights this year include, The Shetland Pony Grand National, The Solent Dog Display and One Man and His Dog. The Children’s Discovery Zone.is back, offering all day games and activities for schoolchildren including food foraging making nettle tea bags, grain art, freshwater fishing games, a chicken and egg quiz and making leaf crowns.This year the Show is offering 20% off all tickets until July 11th so don’t delay! Log onto www.newforestshow.co.uk or ring the Ticket hotline 01590 622409.Like Families Solent West on Facebook to win a family ticket to the New Forest Show. www.facebook.co.uk/familiessolentwest

Perform invites you to travel to Treasure Island and rescue the sacred coconut!Perform drama, dance and singing workshops Hampshire announce their most brave and brilliant and lively theme yet, Mermaids and Pirates!

Avast me ‘earties! This spring we are inviting all local 4-8 year olds to set sail on the good ship Jammy Dodger to discover faraway lands in our Mermaids and Pirates adventure. They’ll discover a world of swashbuckling sea adventures, tropical delights and buried treasure, meet the Seasick Pirate, dance the Coconut Calypso, have a Pineapple Party and find that X Marks The Spot!Any interested 4-8 year old can try out the classes by attending a Free Trial Session. Classes Run on Mondays in Fleet, Tuesdays in Basingstoke, Saturdays in WinchesterFor more information and to find out about a FREE Trial session, please contact: Perform on 0845 400 4000, email: [email protected] Or visit: www.perform.org.uk

Reading Chest With so much going on during the summer holidays, it’s easy to forget about reading until school starts again in September. This year, encourage children to keep up their hard work with a membership to Reading Chest. Establish a good routine by reading together each day and help your child record his or her progress with the reward chart and stickers. From £9.95 per month and if you sign up now there’s £5 off your first month’s subscription with the discount code FSW. Visit www.readingchest.co.uk for further details.

Celebrate the good times in your life… take your photos off the computer and put them on your wall with Life PosterLife Poster creates stunning photo collages from your digital photos. Unique and special gifts for any occasion: birthdays, new baby, weddings. Remember that fantastic holiday you had? Why not relive the memories everyday with Life Poster. We offer a personal and professional service, individually treating your photos to enhance the colour and sharpness, which you cannot find elsewhere! Prices start at £19.95 for a 24 photo collage. Visit www.lifeposter.co.uk to order yours today. Perfect gift for Father’s Day!


News and InformationWar On The Line at Watercress On the 9th and 10th June 2012the railway is transformed and taken back to the 1940’s where you can experience what life was like in WWII, with military and civilian re-enactors, military and period vehicles and lots of information about life on the home front. Air displays by the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight are a

regular feature of this event, which last year played witness to a stunning display by a legendary Spitfire!* The intention behind War on the Line is to educate the next generation and to give insight into what life was like during the War using the Watercress Line as a living history setting, which is an excellent tie in to the key Stage 2 history curriculum.On The Day Unlimited Travel Fares: Adult £16, Child (aged 2-16 yrs) £9. Family (2 Adults & 2 Children 2-16 yrs) £42, fares include booking fees. All subject to availability. *Air display to be confirmed nearer the time. For more information and to book tickets visit www.watercressline.co.uk

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Sign up to help protect our childrenThe Government is currently running a consultation on the plain packaging of tobacco products. We know from research that young people in particular are more likely to be attracted by highly designed tobacco packs, than by plain packs.Every year, another 340,000 children in the UK are tempted to try smoking. If introduced, this new legislation could help:• cigarette packaging look less

attractive to children • make the health warnings stand

out more• stop young smokers believing

that some brands are less harmful than others

Why not add your voice to the consultation? Sign up to support the campaign at: www.plainpacksprotect.co.uk

Etikett of BotleyEtikett is a unique boutique specialising in classic, traditional and designer wears for babies and children aged 0 – 8 years. We are an accredited christening retailer with over 100 beautiful designs in stock for boys and girls.There is something for everyone including unique designer outfits for those wanting something special but we also stock everything you need for babies and children all at affordable prices. We even offer a free gift wrapping service. Why not visit us on Botley High Street this summer. www.etikett.co.uk

Award winning pre school classes with Music Bugs

Music Bugs® are now running classes in Bitterne

Park, Playshack-Hedge End, Chandlers Ford and Gambado-Eastleigh. Our 40 minute sessions give children the chance to play with puppets, pom-poms, parachutes, balls, bubbles, our popular hobby horses and more. Taster sessions are available.Contact Leanne Verduyn on 0844-822-1157, email: [email protected] for further details.

Alresford Music Festival‘Daydream’ is the third Alresford Music Festival and it’s a

great day out for all the family (open 11am-Midnight), and features two stages of eclectic music, blending everything from rock, indie and blues through to folk. There is also a large ‘big top’ beer tent and many additional foods stalls catering for all tastes. The reputation of the Alresford Music Festival as a great family day out will continue in 2012 with much more family entertainment to enjoy, with lots on offer to encourage families to have-a-go, including circus acts, street dance workshops, craft activities, zorbing and live music workshops.

To advertise in Families Solent West contact us to reserve your

space 0808 108 0917


Education News

Introducing cursive handwriting in the first years of schooling is a daunting task for parent and child alike. Yet, more and more primary schools are insisting that a child entering school should embark on writing at this seemingly complicated level.

As a mother and a therapist I completely agree with this line of thought. In fact, I made sure that this was a pre-requisite when selecting a school for my own child. The process may appear contrived but cursive script is a more natural progression from the circular scribbles and curved forms, than print block writing is. Printed letters requires more developed motor control of the hand, and more strength in the child’s wrist than can be mustered by a five year old. The precision required to form clear geometric linear shapes cannot be created as a starting point to writing, but an accumulative skill acquired much later in developmental terms. Just by looking at a child’s (pre-school) drawings you can see that curved shapes are more frequent than angular linear shapes. There are a number of arguments against this idea; opponents feel it causes confusion as cursive writing does not appear in printed form in books, or that it is too complicated to create and looks illegible. Of course there are exceptions to the rule when a child has a diagnosed problem such as dysgraphia/ dyspraxia and the complexity of writing/ drawing or any other fine motor activity is difficult.Everything else put aside the benefit of cursive script outweigh block print. The key advantages to this system are:

• By making each letter in one movement children’s hands develop a ‘physical memory’ of it, making it easier to produce the correct shape.

• Because letters and words flow from left to right children are less likely to reverse letters that are generally difficult (like b/d or p/q).

• There is a clearer distinction between capital letters and lower case letters.

• The continuous flow of writing ultimately improves speed as well as spelling.

I have worked with many dyslexic children that do not reverse their letters when writing because they have been taught to write using cursive script; moving from left to right when writing without taking their pencil off the page and always starting at the same point when moving across the page.Initially it is not an easy route (early years are a challenge!) it is nevertheless worth to persist and give it sufficient time. Especially since complicated spelling easily can be embedded in the physical memory of how that spelling ‘feels’ as one writes the shapes in the memorised sequence.

So what about writing on walls? Why should this be encouraged?‘Mark making’ scribbling is a secondary skill for refining fine motor control. Its pre-requisite is gross motor skills acquired when using our arms. Thus, coordination in our arms acquired when crawling, using a spoon to eat, climbing, throwing and catching all need to be developed first.

Using a vertical surface to write on will:• Strengthen shoulders, upper arms

and hand.• Strengthen wrist and intrinsic

hand muscles needed later for fine motor co-ordination such as cutting and writing.

• Allow a child to see what he/she is drawing whilst standing in front of it rather than being hunched over the table.

• Allow better coordination between eyes and hands as the work is at eye level.

• Encourage bilateral integration (simultaneous use of both hands) if the child has to steady himself/ herself with the other hand.

• Possibly encourage hand dominance (establishing the hand for writing with) considering the child needs to stand up and lean towards the wall. By doing so he or she will be using more muscle groups and will be reaching/writing with the most stable hand (this is my own conclusion).

What’s more, parents need not sacrifice their pristine walls for this endeavor. The use of easels, adhesive black board sheets or paper stuck to the fridge is fine. My personal favourite from when my daughter was younger was drawing with chunky chalk on the garage wall.

Why you shouldn’t stop your toddler from writing on your walls!By Usha Patel Learning Difficulties Therapist.

Usha Patel is a Learning Difficulties Therapist. She works through using simple movements and exercises specified according to every child’s unique capability. Her focus lies on using non-invasive motor sensory techniques to help academic performance. You can contact Usha via her practice website www.ravivpracticelondon.co.uk For information on the next Bal-A-Vis-X workshop visit: www.integratedbrain.co.uk


Involved with Education?

Advertise with Families Solent West

– reserve your space now on0808 108 0917

Education News

Home-School Tutoring UK (est. 1984)

• All ages, levels and subjects• Special Needs Support• Exam Preparation• Support with Home Schooling• Holiday and/or Term time work

Initial consultation is free and without obligationPlease contact the Area Advisor for Hampshire

(West & Central)Mrs Alex Murray-Twinn, BA (Hons) PGCE, NPQH

e: [email protected]: 02380 275573

www.homeschooltutoring.co.uk

Tutors (with full references/CRB checked) available for:

Registered Charity Number: 801708

Located on the grounds of Romsey Abbey Primary School.Fantastic indoor and outdoor play facilities.

‘Outstanding’ Ofsted 2009.Care for children aged 2yrs 9mths to 5yrs.

Opening times:Opening times: 9am to 3pm Monday and Friday (lunch club 12pm-1pm)9am to 12pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. Flexible hours to suit.

We offer care and education of children, following theEarly Years Foundation Stage Curriculum.

Friendly, highly qualifi ed staff.

Feel free to visit, or call 07946113678www.romseyromseycentrecentrepreschoolpreschool.co.uk

Spaces Spaces

Available

Available


Parties

●● Excellent quality cartoon lookalike mascots for hire

●● Ideal for parties and special occasions

07572 066 958

Cartoon Cartoon Mascot HireMascot Hire

[email protected]@cartoonmascothire.co.ukwww.cartoonmascothire.co.ukwww.cartoonmascothire.co.uk

A fun party makeover forA fun party makeover forgirls aged between 4-16girls aged between 4-16

•• Temporary hair extensions to take home and glitter spray

•• Child friendly make up•• Nail painting and nail art•• Temporary body art and

stick on jewels•• Games and prizes•• Gift for the birthday girl•• Party bags supplied at extra cost•• Invitations provided

2 hour all-inclusive party package – call for details or visit our website

www.gorgeousgirlsparty.co.ukwww.gorgeousgirlsparty.co.uk0845 390 10100845 390 1010

Gifts and Party Bags

with a difference:

Artisan Baking Mixes in Jars and Personalised Cookie Mix Party Bags

www.katiebakes.co.uk, [email protected],

023 9258 3553.

Active PartiesLittle Kickers Football Training Birthday party!

Little Kickers football training birthday parties make the perfect birthday experience for children up to the age of 7. Our 1-hour party session for up to 20 children includes fun and varied, energetic football related activities and games suitable for both boys and girls, helping them work off all that party food! Our parties include; a 45-minute Little Kickers Football programme plus 15 minutes photo opportunities, fun and penalty scoring, a Unique LKFC trophy and certificate for the Birthday boy or girl and a unique LKFC medals for every participant.Contact: Gary Darling on 01489 871916 or email: [email protected]

Team Spirit PartiesTeam Spirit provides an exciting 2-hour sports birthday party with a sport of your choice. Relax and enjoy your child’s

special sports birthday and we will take care of everything. Sports party packages include tailored sports fun and games, allocated time for your party food, invitations, party bags and medals. Our parties are finished off with an awards ceremony with a special presentation made to the birthday child including the all important birthday gift from Team Spirit. Contact Darren on 02380 658636 or visit www.teamspirit4sport.co.uk First 3 bookings will receive 25 % discount – Quote Families.

Soft Play PartiesGambado

Gambado is the perfect place to celebrate your little one’s big day! With two huge play-frames, climbing wall and go-karts… your children will not know where to begin! Each party comes with your own dedicated “host with the most” to entertain the children and take the stress away from you. We are now launching our Tiger Tots parties for the little ones! With age appropriate interactive games and party food that is perfect for the young ones. Contact Gambado, Eastleigh on 02380 111 065 or visit www.gambado.com

Musical PartiesMusic BugsA Music Bugs Birthday party brings all the fun

and magic from our weekly classes to your home or venue of your choosing. We offer 40 and 60 minute party packages which can be tailored around a theme, so just let us know your child’s favourite props, songs and party games and we will do the rest. We can include bubbles, the parachute, puppets, instruments and lots more!Contact Leanne Verduyn on 0844-822-1157 or via email at [email protected] for further details.

Your Local Party ProvidersAre you planning a birthday party for your son or daughter and can’t decide what to do? Birthday Parties for children are getting more elaborate and original everyday. Sometimes a kid’s birthday party with a simple theme just isn’t enough and there always seems to be so much to do when trying to arrange a party, and never enough time to do it in. Take a look at some local birthday party providers to help you create a party that is special and unique, a party your guests and children will remember forever!


PartiesClive’s Easylearn Pop Music SchoolClive’s Music schools are now providing children’s Birthday

Parties. We simply come along to your hired hall and provide an afternoon of fun and music. Each party is specifically tailored to the child’s individual music tastes. We focus on getting all the children attending the party either playing an instrument or singing and then working in a Pop Group or Rock Band. We offer parties to children from the age of 7 upwards. If you would like more information on our parties simply call Sophie on 07871 493120.

Party Bags Katie Bakes Cookie Mix Party Bags

Katie Bakes Cookie Mix Party Bags provide a fantastic eco-friendly alternative. The party bags contain a delicious Belgian Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix to bake at home. The mix comes packaged in a stylish box, with full baking instructions, finished with a ribbon. There is a choice of seven wonderfully fun themed labels and most people choose to personalise the party bags with the party child’s name or the wording can be customised to suit your occasion. Contact Katie on 023 9258 3553/ 07984 860194 or email: [email protected] or visit: www.katiebakes.co.uk

Costume HireCartoon Mascot Hire

Cartoon Mascot Hire based in the New Forest can provide excellent quality cartoon look-alike mascots including Peppa Pig, George and Fireman Sam to liven up any children’s

event whether it is a Birthday Party, a special event or a corporate fun day. The characters can be self-hired for the weekend for only £40! Manned costumes are also available to support your event. Visit www.cartoonmascothire.co.uk for further details or phone Julie 07572 066958Discounts given for charity events

Win a toddler birthday party!Gambado are offering one of our lucky reader the chance to have a toddler birthday party at Gambado in Eastleigh. The party includes: ▲ 2 hours of fun with a dedicated party area▲ One of the best party hosts in town to make your event run smoothly▲ Tasty toddler party food▲ Party games▲ On-line party invitations

To be in with a chance to win simply enter online at www.familiessolentwest.co.uk.

Terms and conditions apply. Only one entry per household.

VenuesINTECHThe INTECH Science Centre and

Planetarium, near Winchester, is a fun and usual venue for a birthday party. There are 100 hands-on activities so the children will be easily occupied. There is even a new sport activity zone from Ester 2012. The planetarium is a wonderful experience and a chance to have a calm half hour in the party. The price per child is £9.75 and one adult is admitted free with every six children. The price includes admission to the Science Centre and food. There are two menu options to choose from. Party bookings can only be made for weekends outside of the school holidays. A planetarium show is an optional extra and costs £2 per person.Book on 01962 891900 or contact [email protected]. Visit www.intech-uk.com

Don’t forget to say you saw these companies advertised in Families Solent West magazine. Contact us to reserve your space 0808 108 0917


Cycling

Like to work from home round your family?Pocket money or

full time business?Please email Alex on

[email protected] a free, no obligation

information pack

One of the best ways to enjoy cycling is in a group, and there’s no better group than your own family! Children as young as 2 years old are now able to cycle using balance bikes, so there really is no excuse for the whole family not to join in. We are all aware of the problems of obesity and according to the British Medical Association) a shocking 10% of children in the UK now clinically obese. Cycling is a great way to spend quality time with the family, get fit and have fun at the same time.

Choosing equipment Bikes need to complement your lifestyle so, before you buy, think about where you want to use them. Depending on the ages of your children and your levels of fitness, you may need racers or mountain bikes for sporty action, hybrids for a mixture of road and trail riding, plus smaller models and balance bikes for the children. Whilst you tend to get what you pay for, the most important part is the right size frame. If you also intend to use your bike to

Cycling with the family

commute, find out if your employer runs a cycle-to-work scheme – you could save up to 40%. Once the bikes are chosen, remember to take a spare inner tube and a puncture kit to keep them moving, plus a good quality helmet and a drink. It’s also worth investing in a bike lock so you can pop in for tea and cake en route!

Stay safeAccording to a recent Sustrans survey, more than half of us believe the roads are too unsafe to cycle on, but The National Cycle Network provides safe and attractive routes perfect for family bike rides.

Lead from the frontIf you want your kids to be fired up about cycling then you need to lead by example. Women who thought their bike days were over are being welcomed at rides designed just for women – check out Breeze, Cycletta and Diva 100 (see boxes for more info). They offer a great chance to get back on your bike in great company. Children also make wonderful cycling companions –they’re adaptable, energetic and want to have fun. Just follow our simple guide to ensure that it’s an enjoyable experience!

Before the RideDo your homework: Make certain you are familiar with the bike route. If you get lost or the route is longer than expected, your child may suffer not only from a diminished experience, but potentially in more serious ways such as dehydration or exposure – older children will enjoy the planning too and might even learn some geography if you look at a map together.Start early: Children tend to tire quickly in the afternoon. Take advantage of their energy in the morning and start your ride early.

Invite playmates: Cycling is more fun when shared. If your child has a friend who is at the same level of competency on a bike, bring him or her along.Slow down: Realize that a 4-mile ride may take 2 hours. Don’t expect to ride as fast as you would on your own.Be aware of traffic: What might seem like light traffic to you could be a more dangerous situation for your child, whether biking separately or in a trailer.Be prepared: Carry a tool kit and know how to use it. Also, carry a first-aid kit that includes a few bandages and antibiotic cream to handle minor cases of road rash.Dress right: Bring a daypack to hold extra jackets in case the weather changes. Also, try to wear bright clothing or reflective sashes, to aid your visibility.

On the RideTake breaks: Plan on taking a lot of short breaks. Allow time to stop, get off the bike and explore.Drink water: Always have water readily available. Try to drink before feeling thirsty to stay hydrated.Eat snacks: A well-timed snack can defuse a squabble or bad mood and keep energy going. Kids tend to misbehave more when they’re tired, hungry or thirsty.Make it fun: Choose an interesting route that goes by gardens, streams, views, farms or a favourite shop. Most children are interested in what they can see along the route rather than what’s at the end of the road or trail.Express enthusiasm: If you convey a genuinely upbeat attitude, children most often will be inclined to mimic it.

For further information visit:www.action.org.uk/divawww.cycletta.co.ukwww.sustrans.org.uk www.goskyride.com/breeze

By Karen Wood


Summer has finally arrived with its lighter evenings and milder weather – time to turn off the TV and get outdoors with some advice from Sustrans.Launched in July 2011, Sustrans Free Range Kids campaign aims to create environments for independent, active children, with a focus on 20mph speed limits and safe walking routes. Supported by Miranda Krestovnikoff, presenter of BBC’s Coast and mother of two young children herself, the campaign hopes to change the way we view childhood, and allow our children more freedom to grow.Here are some tips from Sustrans on raising Free Range Kids:Reclaim the streets: Research shows 90% of today’s parents played outside as kids, but one in three children in the current generation of seven to 15 year olds have never played outside at all. Playing outside helps teach children road safety skills, and bolsters their confidence and social skills. Start slowly – do a bit of gardening while your kids scooter on the pavement outside. When you feel confident, suggest they invite friends to play in the street – you could do a bit of housework and leave the front door open so you can hear what they are up to. If your street is far too busy, then take a picnic to a local park on a dry day and let your kids explore while you man ‘base camp’.Get on your bike: A recent project Sustrans did with Scottish schools saw the number of children cycling double, with the number of girls picking up pedal power skyrocketing from 17% to 58%. Why not plan a family cycle ride at the weekend? Learn outside: Encourage your kid’s school to adopt an ‘outdoor classroom’. Whether it’s the school field, or the Botanical Gardens, outdoor learning has plenty of benefits. Start small – it’s sowing seasons, so perhaps your children could grow Sunflowers, monitoring the weather and measuring them weekly. Or for older children, why not head into town for a look at the different types of architecture, asking the public to vote for their favourite buildings.

Support the campaignVisit www.sustrans.org.uk/freerangekids for more information and ideas. They have plenty of advice and learning resources for schools and youth groups, plus you can lend your support to the campaign and sign their pledge calling for 20mph speed limits in residential areas.http://www.sustrans.org.uk/freerangekids/free-range-kids-pledge-form

Are your kids Free Range?


Until 13 MayExbury’s Bluebell Wood www.exbury.co.ukExbury’s woodland floors are carpeted with English bluebells – a wonderful sight, complementing the colourful blooms of the Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, which are also in full flower over this period.

Throughout May Four Seasons Artists Exhibition, Five Arrows Gallerywww.exbury.co.ukA collection of top local artists is staging a delightful exhibition of paintings and sculpture in the Five Arrows Gallery. The artists will give demonstrations, answer questions and steward the show during the exhibition. The work will be on show just as the Gardens at Exbury are coming into beautiful colour, making a visit a double pleasure. Price included within Gardens Admission price.Until 10 June

The Glory of the Gardenwww.exbury.co.ukExbury Gardens are world-famous for the Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees and plants. The spectacle of the Azalea Bowl in May is not to be missed. 20 miles of technicolour pathways lead to an average visit time in April and May of over 5 hours, although visitors can let “the train take the strain” on a 20 min journey into the north-east corner of the Gardens, or take a chauffeur driven buggy to the best of the colour.Until 10 June

5 MayMay Day Festivalwww.marwell.org.ukTraditional springtime festival fun for all the family with creative crafts, music, dance, storytelling and much more! Also enjoy daily talks and feeding sessions with your favourite animals, including giraffe, meerkats, rhinos and penguins.To 7 May

6 MayLongstock Park Water Garden Open Day, Stockbridgewww.longstockpark.co.uk01264 810904 2pm – 5pmDeclared ‘the finest water gardens’ in the world by the International Water Lily Society, the gardens will open to the public in aid of Age Concern Southampton, by kind permission of the John Lewis Partnership. No need to book. £5 for adults and £1 for under 14s.

9 MayItchen Valley Country ParkLittle Foresters Toddler Group10.00am to 11.30amFor pre-school children age 2+. The majority of the session will take place outside so please dress appropriately. Cost £2.50 per child. Booking is essential: 023 8047 5080

12 MayRHS New Forest Breakfast Walks www.exbury.co.uk The garden is renowned for its superb Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, and this walk with Head Gardener

John Anderson is timed to coincide with the peak flowering period. & 13 May

The Snail and The WhaleNuffield Theatrewww.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk11am or 2pmA tiny snail longs to see the world, so she hitches a lift on the tail of a huge humpback whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, experiencing sharks and penguins, icebergs and volcanoes. Created in Tall Stories’ unique style, The Snail and The Whale combines’ physical storytelling, live music and lots of laughs.

Baby and Children’s MarketThe Romsey SchoolMain Hall, Greatbridge, SO51 8ZB 2pm to 4pmwww.babyandchildrens market.co.ukA large selection of stalls selling excellent quality pre loved and new items for boys and girls aged from birth to six years. Entrance: Adults: £1, Kids: Free. Refreshments are served in the cafe. Parking is free.

18 MayOlympic Torch Relay starts

20 MayWATERCRESS FESTIVAL www.watercressline.co.uk Celebrate one of Britain’s greatest culinary delights at Alresford. This FREE food festival is a great day out. Locally produced fare, arts and crafts plus street entertainment. The railway will be running a park and ride service from Ropley to Alresford on the day. Steam trains will be working the full length of the line so visitors can benefit from the South West Trains rail link at Alton Station with the Watercress Line, a mainline connection with London Waterloo.

Marwell Wildlife 10k & Fun RunSprint like a cheetah, charge like a rhino, gallop like a zebra! Whatever your pace, join our sponsored 10km run and children’s fun run to help raise funds for our animals. For details or to sign up, go to www.sportsystems.co.uk/ss/event/MarwellWildlife10KandFunRunItchen Valley Country ParkMeadow Madness & Wild Woods 11.00am to 4.00pmA family event where everybody can take part in activities associated with our meadows and woods. Includes green woodworking, bushcraft, willow working, storytelling and lots more. FREE Entry (car parking charges apply).

What's OnWhere you see this symbol please visit... www.hampshiretopattractions.co.uk for more information and discount vouchers.

We aim to be as accurate as possible but the listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check details and prices.


22 MayHappy Birthday Marwell!www.marwell.org.ukSee the grand opening of our brand new penguin home and pool, plus the unveiling of our giant 40th anniversary wildlife mosaic – designed and created by children!

23 MayItchen Valley Country ParkLittle Foresters Toddler Group10.00am to 11.30amFor pre-school children age 2+. The majority of the session will take place outside so please dress appropriately. Cost £2.50 per child. Booking is essential: 023 8047 5080

26 MayA Bird In Your EarNuffield Theatrewww.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk 2pmChildren will join our magic-spinning storytellers on a journey through a creative world made for children, by the people who know them best – children!

JUNEThroughout June

Sculpture at Marwellwww.marwell.org.ukCome and see the best of animal art sculpture at our annual exhibition, with 40 installations to help mark our 40th birthday. With animals in brass, marble, stainless steel and even recycled bike parts, explore every corner of Marwell Wildlife to find the birthday birds and beasts throughout the park. All sculptures are for sale.

1 June Party in the Park – Marwell Wildlife 6.30-9.30pmJoin Marwell Wildlife on the 1st June for an evening of fun and festivities to celebrate their 40th birthday. See the animals at sunset, meet the keepers who care for them and enjoy special talks and presentations. Party with the penguins in their revamped Penguin World and marvel at the new 40th anniversary sculpture trail. Plus, to keep the party swinging, see all manner of incredible performances and entertainments, from costumed stilt walkers to chainsaw juggling, African drumming to comedy street theatre. It’s time to party! The event runs from 6.30pm until approximately 9.30pm - get tickets online in advance only at www.marwell.org.uk/party/booking.asp

3 JuneSummer Half Term at MarwellJoin the fun as we celebrate our 40th birthday in style! Go back in time with our history trail around the park, finishing at stately Marwell Hall (not normally open to visitors), which will host a fascinating exhibition telling 40 years of the Marwell Wildlife story (4 – 8 June only). Also, as part of Winchester’s ‘Best of British’ Jubilee holiday theme, come and enjoy cream teas in the secret garden at the Hall and enjoy varied traditional fun throughout the week, including Morris dancing, Punch & Judy shows, seaside entertainments and even wandering costumed characters from Marwell’s history, like Tudor King Henry VIII and the ghostly ‘Mistletoe Bride’… Also visit our re-vamped Penguin World with its brand new play park and viewing areas.To 10 June

What’s On


6 JuneItchen Valley Country ParkCrown MakingCome along and make your very own crown to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Any time between 10.30am and 2.30pm. Cost £1.75 per crown.

7 June Royal Navy Submarinewww. www.submarine- museum.co.ukGruesome Grub 11am – 3pmCome and find out when submariners eat “elephants’ footprints” and “babies’ heads” and watch chef, Sarah Clements cooking up a storm when she demonstrates some foul food recipes for you to try at home. Then get crafty and create your own gruesome grub recipes in our hands-on workshop. Free with a valid museum ticket

7 JuneItchen Valley Country ParkForest Activity Day9.30am to 3.30pmA day of activities in our woodland for children aged 6 – 11 years. Includes shelter building, campfire cookery and woodland crafts. Cost £18.00 per child. Booking is essential: 023 8047 5080

8 JuneItchen Valley Country ParkNatural Mobiles10.30am to 12.30amCome and make your own mobile from natural materials to hang in your room. Cost £2.00 per mobile.

9 JuneWAR ON THE LINE www.watercressline.co.ukThe Watercress Line is trans-formed back to WWII with military and civilian re-enactors, military vehicles, rations, displays and much more! Air displays by the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight are a regular feature of this event, last year played witness to a stunning display by a legendary Spitfire! Not to be missed! The intention behind War On The Line is to educate the next generation and to give insight into what life was like during the War using the Watercress Line as a living history setting. A service of remembrance is held on Sunday at Medstead & Four Marks Station. All subject to availability. For more information and to book tickets visit www.watercressline.co.uk.

On The Day Unlimited Travel Fares. Adult £16, Child (aged 2-16 yrs.) £9, Family (2 Adults & 2 Children 2-16 yrs.) £42. Fares include booking fees.& 10 June

Petal Fall Weekendwww.exbury.co.ukChildren are welcomed into the Gardens this weekend to pick up fallen petals from the rhododendrons and azaleas. The National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS) will then prepare a giant collage. Prices within Gardens Admission. (Low Season). & 10 June

Wartime Walkswww.exbury.co.ukAs part of the Exbury Veterans D-Day remembrance weekend on the 9th and 10th June, author John Stanley is hosting a series of guided walks at Exbury Gardens to commemorate a mysterious incident that happened in the run-up to the Normandy landings.& 10 June

Little Pickles MarketsPavilion on the Park, Eastleigh www.littlepicklesmarkets.co.uk1pm - 2.30pmBuy and sell pre-loved good quality baby and children’s clothing and equipment. ‘Daydream’ – Alresford Music Festivalwww.alresfordmusic festival.com 11am-MidnightAlresford Music Festival is a great family day out, with two stages of live music, food stalls, beer tent, circus acts, street dance, craft activities, zorbing and kids music workshops.

10 June Little Pickles MarketsRiver Park Leisure Centre, Winchester 2pm - 4pmwww.littlepicklesmarkets.co.ukBuy and sell pre-loved good quality baby and children’s clothing and equipment.

23 June Baby and Children’s MarketThe Romsey School, Main Hall, Greatbridge, SO51 8ZB 2pm to 4pm www.babyand childrensmarket.co.ukA large selection of stalls selling excellent quality pre loved and new items for boys and girls aged from birth to six years. Entrance: Adults: £1, Kids: Free. Refresh-ments are served in the cafe. Parking is free.

What’s On


Best of British Festival at Marwell WildlifeJoin the fun as we celebrate our 40th birthday in style! Go back in time with our history trail around the park, finishing at Marwell Hall

which will host a fascinating exhibition telling 40 years of the Marwell Wildlife story (4 – 8 June only). Also, as part of Winchester’s ‘Best of British’ Jubilee holiday theme, come and enjoy cream teas in the secret garden at the Hall and enjoy varied traditional fun throughout the week, including Morris dancing, Punch and Judy shows, seaside entertainments and even wandering costumed characters from Marwell’s history, like Tudor King Henry VIII and the ghostly ‘Mistletoe Bride’. For more information about how you can take part in the 40th anniversary celebrations visit: www.marwell.org.uk/whatson

Win a family ticket to Marwell Wildlife! Enter online at www.familiessolentwest.co.uk. Competition entries must be received by 30th May 2012. The prize is a family day ticket for 2 adults and 2 children and is valid for 12 months. No cash alternative is available.

families solent west issue 28 may/ june 2012

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